Early in his career, Kip spent several years working in reforestation projects across Oregon, Washington, and Alaska from 1972 to 1974. That hands-on experience restoring forests in challenging environments shaped a lifelong appreciation for ecology, resilience, and the quiet discipline required to build for the long term.

He later supported his artistic practice through carpentry, bringing precision and care to physical making, and in 1977, opened a stained glass studio in Evanston, Illinois. His work as an artist has always been grounded in craftsmanship and integrity. Kip eventually purchased land in the Adirondack Mountains of upstate New York, where he designed and built his home and established an art gallery that also served as his studio. There, art, architecture, and landscape came together in a way that reflected both intention and humility before nature.

Alongside his creative life, Kip has maintained a steady and thoughtful engagement with financial markets. An active investor for more than forty-five years, he brings a long-view perspective shaped by experience, discipline, and sound judgment across many market cycles. His philanthropy mirrors these values. He is involved in a Donor Advised Fund at Northwestern University and supports charitable organizations in both the United States and Mexico, including the San Miguel Community Foundation.

He brings a rare combination of practical experience, creative sensibility, financial insight, and genuine care for the SMA community. He and his wife, Marilyn, have two children, Will and Lily. He would be honored to serve the people of San Miguel de Allende and to contribute his time, perspective, and experience in support of the Foundation’s mission.

Kip holds degrees from the University of Denver, Bard College, and the University of Oregon.