FA L L 2 0 1 9
Honoring a Legend: JOHN GARDNER PREPARES TO RETIRE
FA L L 2 0 1 9
contents
FEATURES
4
The Investiture of James M. Detora BY M O R G A N C . CUGE LL
22
Honoring a Legend: John Gardner Prepares to Retire BY M O R G A N C . CUGE LL
The Avonian // FALL 2019
1
from the EDITOR Dear Readers,
SPOTLIGHTS
DEPARTMENTS
8
BY M O R G A N C. CU GE LL
3 4 18 42 54 56
36
FOLLOW US
FEATURED ARTIST:
Graham Deckers ’20 BY M O R G A N C. CU GE LL
16 ATHLETIC SPOTLIGHT:
Burton Fricke ’20 BY M O R G A N C. CU GE LLL
32 STUDENT SPOTLIGHT:
Gentry Shamburger ’20
FACULTY FOCUS:
Headmaster
Village Green
Athletics
Class Notes
The Last Word
Parting Shot
Peter Deckers ’90
/AvonOldFarms
BY M O R G A N C. CU GE LL
@AvonOldFarms
40
/AvonOldFarms
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT:
In Memoriam Frank Leavitt ’52 BY A RT C U ST E R
avon.old.farms Search Group: Avon Old Farms School Alumni Association avonoldfarms.smugmug.com
Here we are, a few months into an especially notable new school year, highlighted by the investiture of Jim Detora as the seventh headmaster of Avon Old Farms School on October 19, 2019. The Detora Era is off to a great start: Jim is already following through on his promises to honor tradition and inspire excellence while propelling the school toward its goal of being the best school for boys. He’s reinstated Headmaster’s Dinners at his residence, instituted a Heads Up policy to cut down on cell phone usage, and introduced the Prep4ward program dedicated to the social and emotional development and health and well-being of our young men. This fall we bid farewell to John Gardner, legendary hockey coach and beloved faculty member, as he prepares to celebrate his retirement. Turn to page 22 for more on JTG. You’ll also meet a father and son team in “Faculty Focus”: Peter Deckers ’90—about to attend his 30th Reunion—and Graham Deckers ’20, one of the most prolific artists to ever set foot inside the AOF studio. Finally, on page 12, be sure to take a look at the progress we’ve made on our capital campaign—and please help bring us home! Avon is thrives because of your support. Aspirando et perseverando, MORGAN C. CUGELL, EDITOR
cugellm@avonoldfarms.com (860) 404-4239
Established 1927
HEADMASTER
Jim Detora ASSOCIATE HEADMASTER
Robert Whitty EDITOR
Morgan C. Cugell ALUMNI NOTES
Debra Gordon RJ Fiondella ’12 The Avonian is published for the alumni, parents, grandparents, and friends of Avon Old Farms School. It is distributed to approximately 7,000 readers. All rights reserved. AVON OLD FARMS SCHOOL
500 Old Farms Road Avon, CT 06001 www.avonoldfarms.com (860) 404-4100 ADMISSION
(800) 464-2866 admissions@avonoldfarms.com ALUMNI
We enjoy hearing from you! Please send us your latest news and notes: EMAIL:
fiondellar@avonoldfarms.com PHONE:
(860) 404-4213 FAX:
(860) 404-4631 EMAIL
Members of the administration and faculty can be emailed by using the following formula: last name + first initial @avonoldfarms. com. The directory on the school website also includes email links. Avon Old Farms School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, disabilities, or sexual orientation in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school administered programs.
The Avonian // FALL 2019
3
FROM THE HEADMASTER
Greetings!
A
s the crisp air takes hold and the students prepare Beavers as varsity hockey coach. John has been an Avon for a festive holiday season, I am reminded how legend both on and off the ice, and we wish him well as he quickly the fall months pass and how important it explores the next chapter of his life. is to savor the beauty of Mrs. Riddle’s campus before it’s This fall, Avon lost a beloved member of its community covered in snow. Over my 27 years, I have never tired of with the passing of Frank “Butch” Leavitt, class of 1952. the vista during peak fall foliage or a peaceful walk to Frank returned to Avon Old Farms after college, and first Nimrod cabin to see the leaves change, and I always remind served as a math tutor and geology teacher in the 1960s the boys to look up and take in the beauty of Avon Old and went on to serve as director of admission for 23 years. Farms. The campus has been buzzing with energy as the In his admission role, Frank welcomed and guided boys settle into routines, sports teams celebrate victories, generations of Avonians. We will honor Frank’s life and and new programs and initiatives across the school are up legacy during Alumni Reunion Weekend in May 2020. and running. After a busy summer of work around As we enter the school’s 93rd year, I am more campus and renovations to the headmasexcited than ever to help lead Avon into the future and ter’s residence, Karen and I were excited to solidify our position as the best college preparatory welcome every student into our home for a special dinner throughout September. school for boys. We enjoyed many fun evenings and look As we approach the final weeks of our Inspiring Boys, forward to hosting more gatherings for Building Men capital campaign, I am thrilled to say we the Avon community. have reached $50 million and counting. Your contributions In October, families from near and far gathered for a have led to many completed projects around campus that family weekend like no other, alive with activities, including greatly benefit our students' lives both in and out of the the investiture celebration on the Village Green. I cannot classroom. I thank each of you who has supported the adequately describe the deep sense of pride and appreciation campaign and helped us achieve the $50 million goal. For I felt for my esteemed colleagues, family, and friends who those who have not given, there is still time to stand up have supported me during my career at Avon Old Farms. and be counted so we can blow the top off of Avon’s most As we enter the school’s 93rd year, I am more excited than ambitious campaign to date. ever to help lead Avon into the future and solidify our I hope you will enjoy this issue of the Avonian. Karen and position as the best college preparatory school for boys. I send you our warm wishes for a happy and One of my mentors , longtime friend John Gardner, will healthy holiday season! retire from his administrative duties at the end of this school year. He will, however, carry us on to many more Aspirando et perseverando! victories on the ice as he continues to lead the Winged J I M D E TO R A
4
village green CAMPUS HIGHLIGHT
The Investiture of the Seventh Headmaster of Avon Old Farms School JAMES M. DETORA OCTOBER 19, 2019
F
amily Weekend was celebrated during a picturesque handful of days as hundreds of Avonians gathered on campus to celebrate the start of another academic year and a historic event: the investiture of Jim Detora as the seventh headmaster of Avon Old Farms School. The Board of Directors was in town for its annual fall meeting, and spirits were high as the Board, preceded by festive bagpipers, processed alongside Mr. Detora into the tent set up on the Village Green. Students and faculty followed, and the ceremony was underway with a welcome and an invocation from Jim’s oldest daughter, Carolyn, before Chairman of the Board of Directors Marty Cole H’16, P’04 welcomed the community of students, faculty members, alumni, family members, and friends. Marty then issued the official proclamation and charge on behalf of the Board. Next, Brad Morris ’20, one of Mr. Detora’s longtime advisees, addressed the crowd with his welcoming remarks before the Riddlers and Honors Chorale provided a stirring musical interlude with their performance of “With the Voice of Singing.”
The Avonian // FALL 2019
5
Whereas Avon Old Farms School ‌ has recognized the outstanding characteristics and abilities of James Matthew Detora to lead Avon Old Farms School in the years ahead, and, whereas James Matthew Detora has demonstrated outstanding scholarship, leadership, and honor, the characteristics which are critical to lead Avon Old Farms School, and has also demonstrated abilities as an educator and administrator for over 26 years, and has enjoyed the affection and respect of the entire Avon Old Farms community, and whereas James Matthew Detora met or exceeded all the professional and personal qualifications enumerated by the Board of Directors in considering candidates for headmaster, the Board of Directors, with unanimous approval, does hereby resolve and proclaim James Matthew Detora be and is herewith invested as headmaster of Avon Old Farms School, Avon, Connecticut, this 19th day of October, in the year of our Lord 2019. — M A R T I N I . CO L E , C H A I R M A N , B OA R D O F D I R E C TO R S
6
VILLAGE GREEN
Brian Doyle P’12, ’14—the dean of students and a longtime friend of Mr. Detora’s—took the stage next, and introduced Jim with a selection of humorous, moving anecdotes cataloguing their relationship as friends and colleagues—both men joined the AOF faculty in 1993. Mr. Detora then officially accepted the position, promising to honor
tradition and inspire excellence while moving the school forward in its pursuit to be the best school for boys. After a group singing of “Men of Avon” and a benediction from Marty Cole, Jim’s children, Matthew ’12 and Nicole, rang the victory bell and the group recessed to a luncheon in the Field House.
It is Jim’s ability to connect with students, just as Mr. Trautman and Mr. LaRocque did before him, that is his best attribute and the one quality that I know will enable Avon to maintain its sense of community and brotherhood, which are truly unique to Avon … at what other school does the headmaster have more advisees than any other faculty member? These things don’t happen at other places, but they do at Avon. Why? Because Avon Old Farms is a special place, and Mr. Detora is a unique man. Over the last 26 years, Jim has proven to be an outstanding teacher, our most popular advisor, a successful coach, and an impactful administrator. Jim Detora is about to add exceptional headmaster to that list. — B R I A N D OY L E , D E A N O F S T U D E N T S
The Avonian // FALL 2019
7
THE DETORA FAMILY, FROM LEFT: NICOLE, KAREN, JIM, MATTHEW '12, AND CAROLYN.
The needs of our students are undoubtedly changing. It is clear the work we do here is more important than ever. We are being responsive, with new initiatives such as R.E.A.L. learning and the Prep4Ward program. Our faculty has always been committed to understanding the issues facing our young men, and we will continue to educate and support our students as they encounter them. This is by no means an easy task. Boys are relational learners. Building relationships with our students is critical. It requires faculty and staff committed to the mission. It takes patience, understanding, and dedication as well as teachers devoted to truly understanding the obstacles that challenge boys in their world. It is not simply the classroom interactions affecting learning; it is in the dorms, on the athletic fields, and on social media. It’s all connected, and we realize the many dynamics at play when building relationships with our students. We know our students on many different levels, and they trust
us to be there for them. It is these relationships that enable us to help our boys succeed. And at Avon Old Farms, the goal of educating our boys goes well beyond teaching math and English. It’s about creating a healthy definition of masculinity that promotes empathy, healthy expression of emotions, and self-exploration. At
Avon Old Farms, we honor tradition. We inspire excellence. We have passionate faculty members who challenge students to think critically and open their minds to new ideas. For me, it always has been and always will be all about the boys. It has been exciting to see our school evolve to continuously meet the needs of our students. One thing is clear: we are passionate about boys’ education, and we are devoted to educating the entire young man. So what can you expect under my leadership? You can expect Avon Old Farms to continue to honor tradition and inspire excellence. And while the way we do it may look a little different as we evolve programs and introduce new ones, we will remain true to the ideals of Avon Old Farms. This is truly a special place, and I am committed to maintaining all that makes Avon Old Farms the best school for boys. — J I M D E TO R A , H E A D M A ST E R
HEADMASTER DETORA GATHERED IN THE QUAD WITH MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS BEFORE THE PROCESSION.
8
VILLAGE GREEN
FEATURED ARTIST
GRAHAM DECKERS ’20 BY MORGAN C. CUGELL
G
raham Deckers ’20 may be the third Deckers man to come through Avon Old Farms School—dad Peter graduated in 1990 and has been a faculty member for 25 years, and big brother Evan graduated in 2018—but Graham constructed for himself a distinguished and unique place in the student body in much the same way he composes the brilliant works of art he is known for on campus. He has lived on campus his entire life and grew up waiting to take his place in the classrooms (and in the art studio) as a man of Avon, as his father and brother did before him. But for Graham, Avon Old Farms is so much more than his home and his school; it’s where he found himself as a person, as an artist, and as a gay man. Graham’s artwork has adorned
classrooms, offices, and studios throughout campus since he started as a freshman four years ago. His talent seemingly knows no bounds, as he is equally skilled in a multitude of mediums. He has received numerous Scholastic Art Awards for his works, including six Silver Keys, five Gold Keys, and two American Visions Awards at the regional level as well as an American Visions Award at the national level. He earned the Community Renewal Team National Arts Program Best in Show for Connecticut high schools, the Connecticut Arts Education Association Best in Show for drawing, and Jerry’s Artarama Best in Show for jewelry. At Avon Old Farms, Graham has been recognized with book awards for drawing; ceramics; A.P. Art; and, twice, theater.
On campus, Graham is president of the Art Club; editor in chief of the literary magazine, the Hippocrene; a talented thespian in Avon’s theater program; and a member of the Riddlers and the studentrun a cappella group, the Sing-Ed Beavers, of which he is president. He is also an accomplished diver: as captain of the Avon team, he has three times earned all-New England recognition. Although Graham may be known primarily for his work in the studio, he explains that Avon has become much more to him than that, because the trajectory of his time here—as more than just a student or an artist—has been fraught with struggles to solidify his identity. “My
The Avonian // FALL 2019
experience at Avon started out rough, and I constantly questioned whether this was the correct place for me,” he recalls. “As the years progressed, I started to settle into the school. It took some time before I was really able to figure out where I fit in the community. I went into freshman year thinking the things that made me unique would set me apart from the rest of the school in a negative way. I didn't fit the stereotypical Avon mold, so I assumed that meant I wasn't supposed to belong. Eventually, I found that the reason I did belong here was because I was abnormal. I thought that my uniqueness would hold me back, but it is the very thing that made me who I am today.” As president of the Spectrum/ Gender and Sexuality Alliance,
9
10
VILLAGE GREEN
Graham has found more support as he continues to grow, especially with regard to his sexuality and how that impacts his experience on campus. “A challenge that I have and continue to overcome is one of identity,” he states. “Although now I am more comfortable in my surroundings and more confident, I am still figuring out what it means to be a gay man in this community. Over the years, I've definitely struggled with this, considering that Avon is a very masculine environment. Joining the Spectrum Club helped with overcoming these insecurities, and now that I am the president of the club, I have a
hopeful outlook on future progress.” Graham is quick to credit his successes, in the studio and out, to the many positive influences in his life, especially Cristina Pinton, his longtime advisor and the chair of the Visual Arts Department. “Her support and devotion to her students is unmatched,” he says. “She genuinely is interested in having the guys at Avon be able to express themselves through art. I have been able to create such a great bond with her over the years as both my teacher and advisor. The ambition she has for advancing the arts is inspiring.” The feelings are mutual, explains
Cristina. “I met Graham the first day I visited Avon in the spring of 2012,” she recalls. “He was just beginning middle school but was in the back of the art studio working on the clay wheel completely independently. He was giggly, not overly shy, and such an enthusiastic spirit. I got to know him outside of his mystic reputation as the genius artist ‘faculty brat.’ I have been by Graham's side ever since, and when he came to AOF for his ninth grade year, I knew I was being given a gift. “Graham was the very spirit I saw in myself as a young artist obsessed with art, living and breathing everything art,” she continues. “He was simply one of the most unique young men I'd met in my 12 years teaching at that point. Now, eight years later, I continue to witness a driven artist in so many areas: jewelry, clay, painting, drawing, etc. His sincerity and courageousness to be himself on paper, to battle what it means to speak your innermost fears and dreams, is an incredible example for younger Avon boys to model. It has been a beautiful thing. “As a longtime student, Graham has been a guiding force behind the growth of the department, even before enrolling at AOF: a guide, my advisee, my mentee, an inspiration for AOF to continue to expand and support boys in all the ways we can to give their inner creative voices a means of expression and impact on this world.” The Art Center on campus has become a home away from home for Graham, who observes, “The setting, the teachers, and the resources available have allowed me to flourish as an artist. I consider myself very
The Avonian // FALL 2019
The setting, the teachers, and the resources available have allowed me to flourish as an artist. I consider myself very lucky because I have experienced art centers at other schools, and what Avon has is jaw-dropping.
lucky because I have experienced art centers at other schools, and what Avon has is jaw-dropping. While some schools are worried about their art programs being cut, it seems like Avon is investing more time and money to make sure that it is as strong as possible. It's strange because Avon is considered to be an athletic school, but it has also become a hub for high school art. Through the amazing leadership of Ms. Pinton, we are not only supporting the art of our own school but are also able to host galleries for surrounding schools to promote their art programs.” Graham is looking forward to completing his art portfolio this year and hopes to show his best and most recent work as he submits to the Scholastic Art Awards once more before he applies to art school. “The dream is to one day pursue a career in the arts,” he states.
11
GRAHAM DECKERS '20 CONSULTS WITH HIS LONGTIME MENTOR AND CHAIR OF THE VISUAL ARTS DEPARTMENT CRISTINA PINTON.
12
VILLAGE GREEN
CAMPAIGN UPDATE
FALL 2019
$50 million and counting
W
e are proud that we have reached $50 million and counting for Avon through the Inspiring Boys, Building Men campaign. Since its launch in September 2018, the Avon community—alumni, parents, grandparents, trustees, faculty, and friends— have generously rallied for Avon Old Farms. There is still time to stand up and be counted! A generous Avon parent will match every dollar raised up to $500,000 during the month of December. “It’s a special time for Avon,” remarks Chris Webb, director of institutional advancement. “The alumni are rallying for their school. Just as important, our parent communities have added their voices to this campaign with a resounding YES for the future of Avon.” Success with Inspiring Boys, Building Men means supporting our mission to serve boys best as experts in educating young men. We’ve already seen the impact of this campaign, with support for the annual fund, scholarships, and faculty endowment, as well as campus improvements in the refectory, hockey rink, art gallery, and Nimrod cabin.
GOING STRONG We’re on the homestretch for Inspiring Boys, Building Men. Add your voice by contributing to the future of Old Farms.
To donate and help us finish strong, visit www.campaignforavon.com.
The Avonian // FALL 2019
13
Visiting Author Day NATE BLAKESLEE BY JACQUELINE KELLER
O
n September 26, Nate Blakeslee, a Texas Monthly writer and author of the New York Times bestseller American Wolf traveled from his home in Texas to Avon Old Farms School to discuss the book that captured the story of Yellowstone Park's 0-6, perhaps the most famous wolf in the world. The book was Avon's 2019 all-school read, which, as much as it tells the story of the reintroduction of wolves to the American West, tells a story of the emotions and politics that came with the wildlife management move to reintroduce wolves to the park. It's a book about what can happen when just one being's story ends prematurely. While at Avon, Blakeslee met with English classes, entertained the
entire school body during an hourlong Q&A, signed books, and even met with student editors of two school publications: our literary magazine, the Hippocrene, and the student newspaper, the Avon Record. He discussed the process of researching and writing a nonfiction narrative that revolved not around a person who could share thoughts but around a wolf that many people came to know and love. He also impressed upon students the need for young energy and excitement in the field of journalism. "Journalism is a public good: it holds the powerful accountable," he said. "It's also an opportunity to write with the idea that another world besides the one we currently live in is possible; the things you think should
be different can be different. You might see a divide between what you write and things happening because of that. But know that your words can effect change."
FALL 2019
14
athletics
The Avonian // FALL 2019
15
16
ATHLETICS
athletics at avon ATHLETIC SPOTLIGHT
BURTON FRICKE ’20 BY MORGAN C. CUGELL
Now that I have spent five years at Avon, I have realized how much better that made me as a competitor and a brother. Having to wake up every morning and put my best foot forward has increased my work ethic and commitment to becoming the best version of myself.
The Avonian // FALL 2019
17
B
urton Fricke ’20 is one of the standout athletes of this year’s senior class. Serving as a two-time captain of both the varsity football and varsity golf teams, he is both a linebacker and tight end on this year’s exceptional football squad, which is undefeated at press time and headed to the championship bowl game. In 2018, he earned varsity golf MVP honors after the team won the New England tournament; individually, Burton placed first in New England out of 115 golfers. An essential member of each team, he hopes to help AOF bring home two championship titles this year. Burton is also an honor roll student, a monitor in Pelican Dormitory, an admission ambassador, and a member of the Spirit Club and the Food Service Club, which works to liaise between the student body and the food services team to create mutually exciting menus and accommodate specific requests from students. Despite finding consistent success in the classroom and with athletics, Burton is quick to explain that it took him a while to find confidence in himself—and that Avon was an integral part of that. This is his fifth year at Avon; he arrived in 2016 from New Jersey, the second Fricke to come
through: his older brother Patrick graduated from AOF in 2014. “When I first arrived at Avon, I saw the school as an opportunity to create my own success, but it was extremely intimidating being in a place where there was a student body full of kids who were just as determined to be as successful,” he recalls. “Now that I have spent five years at Avon, I realize how much better that made me as a competitor and a brother. Having to wake up every morning and put my best foot forward has increased my work ethic and commitment to becoming the best version of myself. “I certainly feel honored to follow in my brother’s footsteps,” he continues, “but what makes Avon so unique is how it can cater to so many different people. My brother and I are extremely different kids, and we both have had unforgettable experiences
at Avon by exploring our own paths.” Although he is unsure of where that path will lead next year, Burton has decided to pursue golf in college— but notes that his primary focus this year is still on winning championships for Avon. He thanks his coaches for not just helping him improve his athletic abilities but also for instilling in him the values of hard work and teamwork. He also credits his fiveyear advisor, Mr. Whitty, for offering the support and guidance of an exemplary role model. “Avon has without a doubt changed my life for the better,” states Burton. “It taught me the importance of being a contributing member of a community, which is something I look forward to applying next year in college. “The brotherhood has shaped me into a man I am extremely proud to be, and I have everyone who is working hard at Avon to thank for that.”
18
ATHLETICS
FIELD DAY
2019
Each year during the opening weekend of school, the entire AOF student body heads down to the athletic fields to band together as brothers and compete as dormitories (and day students!) for the coveted Field Day championship title. This year, Jennings was victorious, and the spirit of camaraderie and brotherhood after a day of games and community events served as a great kickoff to another school year.
The Avonian // FALL 2019
19
20
ATHLETICS
HIGHLIGHTS
Fall 2019
CROSS COUNTRY
16:50 The time run by August Berklas '21 (pictured)
BREAKING AVON'S 5K COURSE RECORD
SOCCER
10-4-4 The Winged Beavers’ 2019 regular season record earned them an appearance in
THE NEPSAC CLASS A QUARTERFINAL
The Avonian // FALL 2019
21
FOOTBALL
8-1 2019 Erickson League Champions
2019 KEVIN DRISCOLL BOWL NEW ENGLAND CLASS A RUNNERS UP
22
FEATURE
The Avonian // FALL 2019
BY MORGAN C. CUGELL
J
ohn T. Gardner arrived at Avon Old Farms School in 1975; 45 years later, he prepares to retire from the school he helped transform into the best school for boys—and almost single-handedly put on the
map, athletically, with his unprecedented, legendary performance as the head coach of Avon’s varsity hockey team, now one of the premier programs in the country.
23
24
FEATURE
The winningest hockey coach in the history of New England prep school hockey, John heads into his 45th season as head coach of Avon’s varsity hockey team. He has amassed an astonishing record of 775-276-51, with eight New England Division 1 prep school championship titles and 10 Founders League titles, a record far more impressive and successful than that of any other prep school coach in New England.
John Gardner gave me an opportunity to attend an amazing school and helped me immensely on my path to the NHL. He started out as my coach and has grown into a true friend, and I’m very proud of all that he has accomplished in his amazing – NICK BONINO ‘07 career.
The Avonian // FALL 2019
John has coached three Olympians, including Brian Leetch ’86, considered by many the best American-born defenseman in the history of hockey; Jon Quick ’05, who has won two Stanley Cups as the starting goalkeeper for the L.A. Kings; and Nick Bonino ’07 who won the Stanley Cup with the Pittsburgh Penguins and is now playing for the Nashville Predators. John has also coached hundreds of college players; more than a dozen of his players have played in the NHL, and 42 total Avon alumni have played professionally. John is no stranger to the single-sex educational environment: he was a threesport athlete at Salisbury School, where he grew up. His father taught at the all-boys prep school. John competed on the football, hockey, and baseball teams at Salisbury, and also at Wesleyan University, where he attended college. In November 2011, in recognition of his many contributions to the school's athletic program, John was inducted into the Wesleyan Athletic Hall of Fame. He was was the starting goalkeeper for the first three varsity men’s ice hockey seasons at Wesleyan (1971-74) and collected 1,742 saves in 50 career games. Following his remarkable Wesleyan experience, John joined the Avon Old Farms community, and has been an integral part of the faculty and administration ever since. He has served in a number of capacities over
25
I was having a tough time those first two months of the year with my adjustment to the school. Being able to go to coach on a daily situation with hockey practices and games all throughout the week, and having that personality and having like a father figure, a teacher, but also someone that spoke to you like an individual was a big deal... He was unfiltered and knew how to talk in the locker room one way, and knew how to talk as an athletic director in a different way. It was all genuine and was all so that everyone was comfortable in that setting... He was very good at learning personalities – B R I A N L E E TC H ’ 8 6 quickly.
26
FEATURE
I worked with John Gardner for 38 years, and for 21 years John was my associate headmaster or provost, and the person in charge of the day-today operations of the school. In that role, he was a tireless, dedicated servant of Avon who was universally respected for his focus on our mission and on serving our students. I have always been impressed by John’s ability to connect with our boys. He is the quintessential school leader, whose contributions to Avon for the better part of five decades have been immense. As an administrator, coach, teacher, advisor, mentor, and colleague, John excels. He is an iconic figure throughout New England prep schools, not only for his success in winning hockey championships, but also for his commitment to the time-tested values upon which our schools were – KEN LAROCQUE, FORMER HEADMASTER built.
the years, including mathematics teacher, athletic director, provost, and, most recently, associate headmaster to Ken LaRocque. Currently, John’s part-time position is senior transition advisor to new headmaster Jim Detora; he also works to support the Admission Office and the Alumni and Development Office. He plans to retire from administrative work while continuing to coach the varsity hockey team. John dedicated himself and his career to coaching and teaching, and has been honored many times for his success. In 2010, he received the John Mariucci Award from the American Hockey Coaches Association, the top honor given to a secondary school ice hockey coach. He also received the Connecticut Sports Writers’ Alliance Gold Key in 2010 for outstanding achievement in coaching. Other winners of this prestigious award include baseball's grand old man Connie Mack; President George H.W. Bush; Gordie Howe; Rebecca Lobo; Jim Calhoun; Gene Sarazen; Willie Pep; and Bill Rodgers. As a hockey coaching legend in Connecticut and around the country, John is renowned for his work behind the bench, and he continues to devote as much time as he can to getting
The Avonian // FALL 2019
better. “You have to be learning all the time, otherwise you fall behind,” he notes. “Is it the same game? Yes. Has it changed? Yes. You have to stay current. Sticks are lighter; equipment is better. The kids are bigger, they skate faster, and they shoot the puck harder. “I rely upon my experience,” he states. “But I still do PD. I go to the colleges to watch local practices and talk to the coaches. You get good ideas out of that talking one-on-one.” Over time, John learned that a boy’s character is equally important as his hockey skills— so he makes a point of talking to parents. “I’m too old to deal with bad kids,” he observes. “Kids make mistakes, of course. Do they have some faults? Of course. But I genuinely think the kids I bring in are good kids.” It wasn’t always so easy, John explains, noting that he had to work hard to build up the program. “People didn’t know about Avon, or prep school hockey, for that matter; it boomed in the early ’80s with the expansion of the NHL. Just like football is now so big in New England because of the success of the Patriots, San Jose and Dallas are hot spots for hockey because of their pro teams. “But initially, you had to really work at it,” he says. "Kids were going to other schools that had reputations of academic excellence. You had to really hustle." As the hockey team began to thrive, the academic program followed suit. “I was hired to coach hockey,” John states. “It took me a few years to turn around the program, and I got a lot of good kids. We were able to set a pretty good standard. It really put the school on the map. “But you know, Ken LaRocque made the school better by branching out and supporting other things, such as the arts and the academic program, and he didn’t do it at the expense of the athletic program. He was really interested in sports, but wanted to expand our offerings. “One reason we became an in-demand school is that we were attracting so many top
27
John is the type of friend and colleague everyone should have. If you ask him his opinion or for advice, he will always give you the honest answer. It will be unfiltered and maybe not what you want to hear, but it will be rooted in the wisdom that comes from working at a boys’ school for the last 45 years. It’s why you come to him. He is one of the smartest, most thoughtful people I know and I value his opinions as much as anyone. John’s legacy is, of course, tied to the success of the AOF athletic program and our hockey program in particular. When John arrived in 1975, Avon was not the athletic power it is today. But what people might not know is that John is a school guy first who has served the school in just about every capacity imaginable—from teacher and coach to the associate headmaster position. When it comes to boys, John possesses the ‘it’ factor. He gets them and they get him. The boys look for John’s approval and they aim to please him. Avon’s place among the upper echelon of boys’ schools in New England is directly related to John Gardner and what he has done in the hockey world. Simply put, he put Avon athletics on the map. – B R I A N D OY L E , D E A N O F S T U D E N T S
28
FEATURE
Coach Gardner was the ultimate mentor and player's coach. There wasn’t a day that went by that you didn’t want to go to the rink to learn, play, and battle for him and your teammates. He cares about his players both on and off the ice, while at – JOHN MORI '05 Avon and long after graduation.
athletes,” John explains. “Having a top-tier program helped the school at a crucial time, both academically and financially. I have never seen so many kids applying for a hockey place. Between the rink renovation, the tradition of the program, and the fact that last year two kids were drafted in the NHL first round...it's great publicity, and our admission numbers are off the chart. “It’s good problem to have!” After 45 years of living and working at Avon Old Farms, John Gardner knows one thing for sure: consistency—despite the forward progression of time and technology, and a new breed of students—is exactly how Avon has cemented its standing as one of the preeminent prep schools for boys. “I always say the school has changed a lot, but it’s stayed the same in a lot of ways,” John observes. “Our mission hasn’t changed. What we are really hasn’t changed. We’ve gotten a little bit bigger, and we’ve added a lot of new buildings. I think we focus on serving the students better, but Avon’s mission is really the same.” Despite the daily rigor to which he, his assistant coaches, and players have grown accustomed, John makes sure that both on and off the ice, they know he’s more than just their coach. He spends significant time in the locker rooms just enjoying being around his players and having fun. “You try to make sure you have an open door, and that they feel comfortable talking to you—you hope they do,” he explains. “You try to connect with them and let them know you’re there for them. They have to buy in, and see the opportunities that they have. If they’re frustrated in some way, you have to give them ways to improve and get better. “After a while, it’s experience,” John maintains. “You’ve been there, done that, seen that. The one thing I’ve learned is how important it is to connect with the kids. They’re teenage boys; they need humor. I joke
The Avonian // FALL 2019
29
Coach Gardner has changed the lives of countless students and players by his encouragement, passion, and commitment to helping us to become better men. He has been an inspiration to everyone who has walked through the Quad at Avon. – VINCENT MANCUSO '81
30
FEATURE
After playing for Coach Gardner as a student, it is a bit surreal coaching with him 20 years later. He has been a mentor for me personally and professionally. Working with him is an opportunity 'I appreciate every day. He has positively touched the lives of thousands of hockey players and I am grateful to learn from one of the best American high school hockey coaches ever. – G E O F F B A R LOW ’ 9 8
The Avonian // FALL 2019
around with them, because it breaks down a lot of the barriers—and relieves the tension amid some of the tougher hockey moments. “You feel it,” he continues. “You read body language; you know the kids on your team just like you know the kids in your class. You break the tension if you notice that as a group they’re not on the same page. “It’s not life or death,” he laughs. “It’s a stupid game played by adolescent boys. You feel stuff, and you know it. You react.” It’s an approach that John finds equally beneficial as a faculty member. In fact, he believes that the relationship-driven model of learning is what sets Avon apart from other schools. “Because we’re all boys, we have a unique advantage,” he observes. “We can focus on boys—we know what makes them tick and what motivates them, so we can focus on that in the classroom, and sports, and residential life. Those are essentially the three components of life at Avon.” John is quick to acknowledge that today’s students grew up in a different world than when he began 45 years ago, but notes that Avon has the ability to develop good young men. “I think we teach them the right values,” he says. “They need to learn that hard work and honesty will win out in the end. We have to do a good job teaching responsibility.” Though John’s work as a faculty member will end next year, he’ll continue to coach for as long as he feels is appropriate: “When I stop looking forward to it, it will be time to stop,” he states. “But I enjoy going to the rink every day. I love talking with the kids, and working with them. It’s relational learning. You’re teaching all the time, because they’re listening all the time. You’re teaching important things, more important than hockey: how to act; how to react. These are learning moments. “They learn to live on their own—to make their own decisions, and live with those
decisions. That’s Avon—it goes beyond giving them a good education and getting into college. We want them to grow up and be responsible.” John recalls a former student who told him, “’I don’t remember anything about my chemistry class, but I do remember that talk I had with you one night in Pelican dorm.’ “You try to remember why you’re here,” he states. “You’re here to help the students. To help boys become men, and to teach them the right values, so that when they graduate from Avon, they’re ready to go to college, and hopefully we’ve supplemented what the parents have taught at home. “I honestly didn’t realize it at first,” John continues, recalling former Director of Admissions Frank Leavitt ’52, who used to tell students, “‘The reason we’re here is because you’re here.’ It’s corny, but he was right,” John says. “It’s not about me; it’s about the kids in your dorm, in your class, on your team— that’s what it’s about. “You’re here because these kids are here and it’s your job to help these kids be better students, better athletes, and better people. To me that’s the most important part. “It’s really not just about hockey. You’re helping kids find their way.”
31
32
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
Gentry Shamburger ’20 BY MORGAN C. CUGELL
G
entry Shamburger ’20 is a prime example of the incredible student leadership at Avon Old Farms School. This year’s Warden, Gentry is a four-year senior member of the Student Council. He’s a two-year head monitor in Jamerson House, a two-year admission ambassador, and a two-year captain of the varsity hockey team, a team he has been a part of since he arrived as a freshman. He is a member of the Spirit Club and the president of the Filmosophy Club, a member of the varsity track team, and part of the Big Brother mentorship program. Unsurprisingly, Gentry has been recognized often throughout his time at Avon, earning the Woodwell Leadership Award his sophomore year and the Louise B. Adams Award, for character and leadership, last year. A Dean’s List student, he earned the Yale Book Award and the English 3H Book Award. As Warden, Gentry serves as the liaison between the student body and the school administration. He addresses the community often,
including at Morning Meeting, in the Chapel, and as a part of larger school presentations. “It's an incredible opportunity to better the Avon community,” he states. “Easily the most important part of the job is to keep a close connection with all students. Whether they be kids on your team, in your dorm, or in a club, that close connection is what builds our community and sets us apart from other schools. I hope to create and facilitate a certain energy on campus that involves happiness and inclusivity and fun. With all that's going on, it's easy to forget to have fun, and I hope I can consistently introduce that into the boys’ lives here.” Despite his schoolwork, athletic commitments, and extracurricular responsibilities, Gentry makes having fun a priority and hopes his work as a monitor will help his peers remember to do the same. “It's hard to balance all parts of Avon life, as there are many moving pieces, but I find myself at equilibrium for the most part,” he notes. “I cannot overdelegate my time to just one aspect. For example, my time on the ice
should not exceed my time being in the dorm and checking up on the guys. Equally, my time buried in the books should not exceed my time out playing pickup basketball in the gym. I hope that, through my monitorship, I can achieve some level of lasting impact on the boys, just as the monitors I had as a younger student had an impact on me.” It is fitting that Gentry feels so at home as a part of the brotherhood of Avon Old Farms: he names his own three brothers as the biggest influences in his life. From Atlanta, Gentry is the youngest of five children. His older brothers Dylan and Raines graduated from Avon Old Farms in ’12 and ’17, respectively. “As we all grew up, the Shamburger brothers formed a unique bond, and it largely molded me into who I am today,” Gentry observes. “Each of my brothers has taught me something different about my approach to life. Dylan, for example, a previous Warden of Avon, constantly stresses the importance of reading and gaining knowledge. Because of this, I've since picked up more books.
The Avonian // FALL 2019
“
I hope that, through my monitorship, I can achieve some level of lasting impact on the boys, just as the monitors I had as a younger student had an impact on me.
’’
33
34
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
No matter the weather; no matter how many tests; no matter how many Herbies at practice; Avon constantly teaches me what it means to be a young man. Of all my accomplishments, whether they be athletic, academic, social, or other, I am absolutely most proud to simply be an Avonian.
Davis, on the other hand, has taken me to the tops of more mountains to show me the importance of nature. Raines showed me what it means to be responsible and social and, more important, how to balance all the aspects of my life.
“To follow the footsteps of my brothers is an incredibly special and unique experience that I’m very fortunate to have,” he continues. “Some may think that it is inhibiting, in the sense that I might be pigeonholed into filling the shoes of my brothers
before me. It’s actually the opposite. It provides me with an opportunity to expand the Shamburger name and legacy within Avon. Rather than emulating Dylan’s or Raines’s life at Avon, I’m choosing to change and expand on their lives; to use them as the basis upon which I will build my own legacy. “It certainly facilitates a special connection with the school and even the campus itself,” Gentry continues. “For example, I got to live two years in the same Jamerson room that my brother had lived in nearly 10 years before. Every free period, he returned to the room and twisted the same doorknob I do every single day. That’s a special connection with the school that I'm happy to have.” Gentry recalls bouncing on yoga balls in the training room as a seven-year-old, passing time with the
The Avonian // FALL 2019
varsity hockey team while his big brother and teammates sat in ice baths after games. “I knew back then that this would be a place I could eventually call home,” he says. “It was as if I were a part of the team, a part of the community already. I knew that this place was special.” A few short years later, Gentry was on the ice himself, scoring his very first hockey goal during the Christmas Hockey Classic his freshman year in a rink he had grown up in. “Luckily enough, my dad was watching from the corner, and we celebrated right in front of him,” he says. “We ended up winning that game by one goal and eventually won the whole tournament, and I felt like I truly contributed to that victory. This was a very special moment in my time here at Avon.” Gentry hopes to continue his
hockey career in college next year and is interested in studying humanities—which should come naturally to him thanks to his experiences as a student at Avon. “I’ve found my mind has expanded significantly in my time here,” he claims. “This is not just pertaining to the classroom; in fact, Avon has changed the way that I think about almost everything. I have grown far more independent and open-minded through my toils here at school, and that is something I will be thankful for when it comes time for college.” It's clear that Gentry—like Dylan and Raines before him—counts attending Avon Old Farms of paramount importance as his life continues to unfold. “It was easily the biggest and best decision I’ve made in my life,” he states. “Avon has beaten me to my knees, given me
35
sleepless nights, caused insurmountable tears and so much more, but I truly love this place. No matter the weather, no matter how many tests, no matter how many Herbies at practice: Avon constantly teaches me what it means to be a young man. Of all my accomplishments—athletic, academic, social, or other—I am absolutely most proud to simply be an Avonian. “I'm not so sure that the Shamburger name will echo through the hallways of Avon Old Farms, but I can certainly say that Avon will echo through the hallways of Shamburger households for many years to come,” Gentry continues. “I would like to think that we, as a family, left a lasting, positive impact on the school and its constituents; what we know for sure is that Avon has left its print on all of us.”
36
FACULTY FOCUS
1990
Graduated from Avon Old Farms School
1995
Returned to Avon Old Farms as a faculty member
2014
Part of the coaching staff that led the Avon Squash team to its first-ever National Championship.
2015
Helped to bring an advanced STEM program to campus
The Avonian // FALL 2019
37
Peter Deckers ’90, P’18, ’20 BY MORGAN C. CUGELL
4
Varsity golf New England championship titles
25
Will celebrate 25 years of service to the faculty of Avon Old Farms this April
30
Will celebrate his 30th Reunion with classmates from Avon Old Farms this May
2020
May 24, son Graham will graduate from Avon and join Evan '18 as an alumnus
“I
recently realized that more than half my life has been spent here,” states Peter Deckers ’90, P’18, ’20. “That’s a big milestone, but it seems natural.” Indeed, 2020 will be a big year for Peter. This spring, the longtime faculty member will celebrate a number of important moments: his 30th reunion since graduating from Avon Old Farms in 1990, his 25th year of service as an employee of the school, and the graduation of his second son, Graham ’20. Peter’s son Evan ’18 is coming off an incredible sophomore season as long snapper for the UMASS football team; his daughter, Marah, a sophomore at Miss Porter’s School, is already making a name for herself in the classroom, on the field, and in the community. It’s safe to say things are going pretty well for Mr. Deckers, who came to Avon as a freshman day student in 1985; by the end of his high school years, he knew he would return to teach— perhaps, in part, to pay it forward. “I loved it,” he stated. “I had great teachers. Avon made me grow up.” Currently the associate director of information technology, Peter has held a number of positions over his Avon career. He got his start as a standout scholar athlete during his time as a Winged Beaver, playing varsity football and squash as well as becoming an avid golfer in his spare
time. He received a Founder’s Medal upon his graduation in 1990, after which he matriculated at Bowdoin College in Maine, where he majored in biology and was a four-year starter on the varsity football team. Peter cites Bill Kron as one of his most influential role models during his time as an Avon student. “He was like a father figure,” Peter recalls. “As an academic dean, he oversaw a lot of the things I did. He was a bit tough on me, but it was very helpful.” Fittingly, it was Kron who got Peter started in AV technology when he returned in 1995 as a faculty member: on the first day of new faculty orientation, Bill asked Peter to help him with a television set. “He asked if anyone could plug it in,” Peter laughs. “I plugged it in, and then fixed the flashing clock display. That day, I became head of tech.” Hired as a teaching faculty member, Peter provided biology instruction at all levels while becoming an integral part of the school’s technology team. “Everyone on campus was PC-based,” he notes. “But my whole life, I had been Mac-based. I quickly turned into the support on campus for people who had Macs. It was rolled into the associate director position, and three or four summers in, I started working year-round.” On top of his work in IT and as a teacher—not to mention also serving as a dorm parent, an advisor, and a
38
FACULTY FOCUS
“
I loved teaching, hearing the rumble and staying current with them, understanding where they stand. That’s why I never want to give up coaching, because you see them at the other level.
’’
coach—Peter was starting his own family; those days were frantic and filled. Peter married his wife, Tina, in 1996. They soon welcomed Evan, Graham, and Marah, and Peter continued to juggle his family’s needs with his many responsibilities in the classroom, in the dormitories, and as a varsity coach. Over the years, Peter’s position evolved with the school. He stopped teaching because academic technology—and Avon’s IT needs— were growing rapidly. As the associate director of IT, he focuses on providing hardware systems support for both students and faculty. That includes printers, office computers, mobile devices, and network support as well as rolling out the faculty laptop program every four years, refreshing technology, and ensuring that all work is properly backed up. “It’s a
constant stream of people,” he notes. Peter also moved out of the dormitory and transitioned into an administrator on duty (AOD) role, monitoring the comings and goings of the entire student body and coordinating the faculty duty crew during the many weeks a year that he is the AOD. He continues to coach varsity golf, guiding the team to unprecedented heights, including four New England championship titles. He is also a vital part of the renowned squash program’s coaching staff and helped to guide that team to its firstever national championship in 2014 on its way to becoming one of the best prep school programs in the country. Now that he no longer teaches, Peter explains, he finds his work as a coach to be of paramount importance— and enjoyment—as it keeps him connected to the students. “I loved teaching,” he states, “hearing the rumble, and staying current with them, understanding where they stand.” As advisor to the AV club, Peter supervises four or five students each year—he calls them “behind-thescenes recruits”—to manage the many requests the group gets, such as presentations at Morning Meeting. “This isn’t an open club,” he explains. “I choose kids who have expressed interest as well as the ability to handle the work and not panic, kids who can roll with the punches when a presentation fails or someone wants to make a last-minute change.” It’s a skill Peter has mastered himself: with so many moving parts on campus, there always seems to be a need for help. This fall alone, he’s helped prepare for events big and small, from the investiture of Jim Detora as headmaster, the Board of
The Avonian // FALL 2019
Directors’ annual meeting, and Visiting Author Day to ensuring the sound system at the football field is fully functional before games or campus events such as Field Day. Just as Peter’s position has changed drastically, so has the school’s technology. “The campus wasn’t even wired when I first started teaching here,” he explains. “We were wiring for ethernet and talking about getting computers for faculty.” Since then, Peter has helped streamline many of the technology resources on campus. “We want our community to be able to maximize productivity, maintain the integrity of data, and keep information backed up,” he observes. An ed-tech certified teacher, he has attended the iPad Institute a few times and helped the campus community transition to Google’s education suite. Peter was one of the driving forces behind the introduction of the STEM program to Avon Old Farms. He briefly returned to the classroom to teach the academic technology course for interested students; that course was eventually discontinued to make room for the emerging STEM offerings, which encompassed academic technology and much more. As interest grew, so did the program: the school hired exceptional faculty members to expand offerings, campus infrastructure was changed to accommodate a growing need for facilities that matched the level of opportunity available. “We started with Lego Minestorms robots in my academic technology class,” he states. “We’ve moved all the way from taking apart computers and building battlebots to a competitive robotics program.” Of course, Peter notes, none of this
would have been possible without the help of Deb Case, Avon’s director of information technology, with whom Peter has worked for the last 23 years. Their two-person team works to support all the needs on campus. Over the years they’ve worked together, Peter and Deb have gone from no campus internet connection to ethernet to today’s fully wireless system. They’ve also supported the evolution of classroom technology, from 27-inch televisions, projectors, and SMART Boards to the newly upgraded digital presentation projectors. A quintessential Man of Avon who keeps himself entrenched in the daily lives of both students and colleagues, Peter is equally dedicated to life as a family man but quick to explain that none of it would be possible without the support of his wife, Tina. “She’s just as responsible for my longevity here,” he states. Peter makes frequent trips to Massachusetts to watch Evan’s football games; he walks the campus with Tina and their dog, Murphy. He frequently drives Marah to his sisterin-law’s farm in Vermont, where she spends most of her free time away from school working with animals and fostering her love of nature. He is cherishing the last year he’ll have a son on campus with him, speaking highly of Graham’s evolution in the studio (see Featured Artist, page 8). “He’s had access to incredible facilities, unlimited resources, and instruction from top-level teachers. Because of that, he’s been able to spend the time he needs to get to the level he has. “The fact that Evan and Graham have both found so much success here speaks to how the school has developed over time,” he continues.
39
“Today, any boy can come through this school and succeed on his path. With my family, that’s been proven. I can’t think of two boys more different. They both excelled here, because boys are allowed to go after the things they love, and not be seen as different because of it. “What Avon did for me as a student was remarkable,” Peter recalls. “As a young kid, I learned to overcome challenges, and I got to a place in both athletics and academics that allowed me to go to play football at a top tier college. I didn’t test well. But because of my experience here, people realized there was more to the person. “I think that’s the most important thing for our boys: realizing there’s another side, more than just testing or athletics or classes. You can do what you love here: you take your path and you run with it.” This spring, Peter will hand his second son a diploma as he officially becomes an alumnus on graduation day. He will receive the Pelican statue, honoring his 25 years of service to the school, at the Board of Directors recognition dinner. And he and his buddies from the Class of 1990 will celebrate their 30th Reunion, and will likely reminisce about the many memories shared together at this special place. But Avon is a special place because of men like Peter. He has passed the years right here, growing with the school, helping countless generations of boys become men, and watching his own children thrive. For all that the school has benefitted from Peter’s many talents, tireless work ethic, and dedication to service, the honor, it seems, has been entirely his.
40
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
Frank Leavitt ’52 IN MEMORIAM
D
uring his quarter century of admission work, Frank Leavitt '52 introduced generations of future Men of Avon to the school he loved. To meet and speak with Frank was to be put at ease, and his love for the school came through in everything he said and did. I met Frank in much the same way so many did—during a tour of the campus. I had applied for a job rather than admission, and Frank’s friend and classmate Seth Mendell ’52 was showing me around when we encountered Frank in one of the archways. We spoke only for a few minutes, but I came away feeling warmly welcomed and inspired by his dedication to the school and its mission. If I had any doubts about wanting to be a part of Avon Old Farms, Frank erased them. It is no wonder the student body nearly doubled in size during Frank’s years as director of admission. Frank first arrived on campus in 1947 while the school was closed. His family
BY ART CUSTER, SCHOOL HISTORIAN
rented space in the quad and continued to live there even after the school reopened in 1948—the year Frank took his place in the student body. At school, he was involved in crew, The Winged Beaver yearbook, the Owl and Radio clubs, Nimrod, and student government. He was elected Warden in 1951. After four years at Dartmouth and two in the U.S. Army, Frank was beginning a career as a geologist when the death of a beloved faculty member, General Caldwell, brought him back to campus, and Don Pierpont convinced him to stay. It was 1959, and Frank would, with a few years off for graduate study, serve the school and its students until 1994. In his student days, Frank was known as Butch: the 1952 yearbook says, “Butch has no need of praise.” Quiet and often understated, Frank sought neither limelight nor accolades, but even if he had no need of praise, he richly deserves it. As a teacher of geology, as a coach of soccer and riflery, as an advisor to the
The Avonian // FALL 2019
41
A True Man of Avon Nimrod Club, and as a welcoming admission director, Frank Leavitt had a profoundly positive impact on thousands of Men of Avon and on the school itself. Ever the quiet, thoughtful voice of reason, he was an Avon icon—an inspiration to students and colleagues alike. The 1952 yearbook also says of Butch Leavitt that he “is a friendly, likable guy who just can’t help doing the right thing.” Perhaps the editor who wrote that line knew of one instance of malfeasance in Frank’s past. It would seem that young Frank had seized an opportunity to drink some beer while at school, and his conscience so troubled him that he felt compelled to confess to Provost Pierpont. Dr. Pierpont gravely told Frank that he would have to consider the matter and would be in touch later. Over a week passed, during which Frank tortured himself with remorse for his actions, dismay over letting himself and others down, and anxiety over his
Frank Leavitt had a profoundly positive impact on thousands of Men of Avon and on the school itself. Ever the quiet, thoughtful voice of reason, he was an Avon icon—an inspiration to students and colleagues alike. future at school. Finally, when he could stand it no more, Frank implored Dr. Pierpont to let him know what the punishment was going to be. Dr. Pierpont thought about it for a moment and then said, “Well Butch, I think you’ve suffered enough.” Frank himself told that story as an example of Don Pierpont’s savvy as a molder of young men, but the story speaks volumes about Frank Leavitt as well. Who better to serve for decades as the Avon Old Farm admission director—and a pillar of the community—than “a friendly, likable guy who just can’t help doing the right thing.”
42
class notes
KNICK CURTIS ’63 AND HIS WIFE, LYNN, ENJOY THE COASTAL CITY OF PORTO, PORTUGAL, IN APRIL.
40s ’42 RUSSELL HUNTER
Head Class Agent 100 Sarah Ln., Apt. 112 Simsbury, CT 06070-1985
50s ’50 HARVEY S. RUBIN
Head Class Agent 102 Barbour Cir. Newport News, VA 23606-2201 harvo2516@verizon.net
’51 CARL A. CANDELS
Co-Head Class Agent 6 Mountain View Ave. Avon, CT 06001 ’51 WARREN T. FORD SR.
Co-Head Class Agent 115 Center St. Wolcott, CT 06716 jodir@aol.com ’52 SETH F. MENDELL
Head Class Agent 232 Tellidora Ct. Fort Myers, FL 33908 sethalicemendell@gmail.com
’54 DOUGLAS H. MACPHERSON
Head Class Agent 5405 Dranes Tavern Dr. Fairfax, VA 22030-4603 dhmacpherson@verizon.net ’55 EDWARD J. HAWIE
Co-Head Class Agent 138 Hampton Point Dr. St. Simons Island, GA 31522-5426 ehawie@bellsouth.net ’55 CLEON M. SHUTT JR.
Co-Head Class Agent 511 Garrison Forest Rd. Owings Mills, MD 21117 chipsamerica@hotmail.com
’56 CHARLES R. SCAGLIONE
Head Class Agent 3328 Eagle Nest Point Virginia Beach, VA 23452 scag3328@gmail.com ’58 AUSTIN CHAMBERS
Co-Head Class Agent 335 Lake Dr. North St. Petersburg, FL 33710-7751 susan.chambers3@aol.com ’58 STEPHEN R. HOLT
Co-Head Class Agent 75 Bridge St. Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA 01944 stephenholt@comcast.net
The Avonian // FALL 2019
’59 CHARLES W. DAVIS
Co-Head Class Agent 6905 West 99th St. Overland Park, KS 66212 cwdavis@waretec.com ’59 DOUGLAS B. MARSHALL
Co-Head Class Agent 2 Berkshire Rd. Bloomfield, CT 06002 douglas.marshall@raveis.com
60s ’60 RICHARD L. WILLIAMS
Head Class Agent PO Box 218 South Orleans, MA 02662-0218 rclumberclan@aol.com ’61 GEORGE F. HENSCHEL JR.
Head Class Agent 101 Seminary Rd. Bedford, NY 10506 gfhjr@aol.com ’62 ALAN D. ROZINSKY
Head Class Agent 13620 Via Flora, Apt. B Delray Beach, FL 33484 rozinskyb@gmail.com ’63 JACK R. STOKVIS
Head Class Agent 25 Pine St. Haworth, NJ 07641-1926 smarts@galaxy.net
’64 W. BRADFORD HARWOOD III
Head Class Agent 24 Overhill Ave. New Britain, CT 06053 wbhtcc@aol.com ’65 PERRY BENSON JR.
Head Class Agent 2135 Naudain St. Philadelphia, PA 19146-1218 pb2@jacobswyper.com ’66 MICHAEL D. BARKER
Head Class Agent 40 Bay Hill Dr. Bloomfield, CT 06002-2376 barkermike@aol.com ’67 JAMES W. CORRIGAN
Co-Head Class Agent 826 Gould Hill Rd. Contoocook, NH 03229 jwc915@gmail.com ’67 WILLIAM F. ROBERTS JR.
Co-Head Class Agent 786 Brownsville Rd. Sinking Spring, PA 19608 wfroberts@fast.net ’68 GEORGE L. PURNELL
Head Class Agent 4822 Brighton Lakes Blvd. Boynton Beach, FL 33436 glpluvssports@gmail.com
’69 DAVID F. COLEMAN
43
Head Class Agent 3004 Margaret Jones Ln. Williamsburg, VA 23185 hbucklin3@aol.com
examined more than 90 people and diagnosed 21 new cases of leprosy, one of the highest disease percentages he had ever seen. He noted that of those diagnosed, 95 percent had some form of disability due to nerve damage. Spencer, a Fulbright Scholarship recipient in 2015–16, received his second Fulbright scholarship for 2019–20 to return to Brazil. AOF applauds Spencer as he continues working to detect and provide treatment for those with Hansen’s disease.
’71 TIMOTHY R. BEEBLE
’72 KEVIN J. DRISCOLL
Head Class Agent 35 Adelaide Ave. Barrington, RI 02806 davidcoleman1150@gmail.com
70s ’70 HARRIS H. BUCKLIN III
Head Class Agent 63 Grassy Plain St. Bethel, CT 06801 tbeeble@aol.com ’71 JOHN S. SPENCER is an
assistant professor at Colorado State University in the Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology. His work and research are geared toward developing improved diagnostics and vaccines and to further understanding the cell-mediated and humoral immune responses representing the spectrum of leprosy disease. In the spring of 2019, Spencer went to Melgaço, one of the poorest cities in Brazil, on Marajó Island. He
Head Class Agent 500 Old Farms Rd. Avon, CT 06001 driscollk@avonoldfarms.com ’73 CHRISTOPHER L. ATKINS
Head Class Agent PO Box 706 Hillsdale, NY 12529-0706 catkins702@gmail.com ’74 GEORGE J. GIANNONI
Co-Head Class Agent 36 Twilight Dr. Granby, CT 06035-1212 ggiannoni@cox.net ’74 EDWARD P. MOLLOY
Co-Head Class Agent 6 Winhart Dr. Granby, CT 06035 e.molloy@cox.net
CHASE DONALDSON ’68 AND HIS WIFE, JUDY, AND MARK SHARMAN ’68 AND HIS WIFE, DI, VISITED CHAS RAUCH ’68 ON HIS BEAUTIFUL RANCH, WOLF CREEK OUTPOST, IN WOODLAND, UTAH. WE ALL HAD A GREAT TIME CELEBRATING CHAS’S 70TH BIRTHDAY AND, OF COURSE, REMINISCING ABOUT OUR AVON DAYS, DON PIERPONT, TEACHERS, CLASSMATES, NIMROD CLUB, AND THE COACHES AND SPORTS WE PLAYED TOGETHER. CHAS EVEN HAD US HELP HIM BUILD A TEEPEE. THE AVON ’68 BROTHERHOOD CONTINUES.
44
CLASS NOTES
MIKE LECH ’88, P’23 (LEFT) AND ROB GRYBOSKI JR. ’88 (RIGHT) ARE READY TO TEE OFF FROM THE 10TH HOLE AT THE FISHERS ISLAND (NEW YORK) CLUB.
CHRIS CARGEN '66 AND TIM TRAUTMAN '75, P’03 ABOARD CHRIS'S BOAT, DARK STAR, IN ANNAPOLIS, MD.
TED MOLLOY ’74 and MIKE LAWYER ’74 recently
participated in a golf tournament honoring BILLY ANGEL ’75. At Billy’s request, all proceeds will once again benefit the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center Oncology Program. Among their most profound memories of a day, in many ways dedicated to memories, was sitting at the awards ceremony and out of nowhere hearing from the emcee that nine of Billy’s AOF classmates had donated a significant prize: RANDY BECKER ’75, JASON BEEBEL ’75, TOM BYRNE ’75, FRED HAACK ’75, GORDON LINKE ’75, ALLAN O’CONNOR ’75, JAMIE OSBORNE ’75, DAVID JACK ’75, and JOHN VAN SANT ’75.
Ted shared, “Outstanding effort! You guys made us proud, and it
meant a lot to Billy’s family. Maybe next year you will be in a position to join us. Thank you!” ’75 THOMAS B. BYRNE III
Head Class Agent 31 Helena Rd. Avon, CT 06001-3433 tbyrne@thomasbyrne.com ’76 ALEXANDER N. WORLEY
Head Class Agent 20 Shore Grove Rd. Clinton, CT 06413 alexworley@sbcglobal.net
’79 ANTHONY M. GRAY
Co-Head Class Agent 6212 Wagner Ln. Bethesda, MD 20816 tgray@tonygray.net ’79 SCOTT B. LINKE
Co-Head Class Agent 116 Eleven Levels Rd. Ridgefield, CT 06877-3011 scottblinke@comcast.net
80s
’77 JORGE E. CONSUEGRA JR.
’80 THOMAS E. DAVEY JR.
Head Class Agent 5 Andrews Rd. Greenwich, CT 06830 jconsuegra29@gmail.com
Head Class Agent 6806 Joyce Way Dallas, TX 75225-2718 thomas.davey@ge.com
’78 JOHN M. GARVEY
Head Class Agent 389 Haines Ave. Long Beach, CA 90814 jmgarvey@garvspace.com
TUCKER BRADSHAW '77 AND JORGE CONSUEGRA JR. '77 CELEBRATE TUCKER'S BIRTHDAY OVER MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND IN BLACK ROCK, CONN.
The Avonian // FALL 2019
’81 S. COLEMAN BOOKBINDER IV
Head Class Agent 213 Midland Ave. Wayne, PA 19087 samuel.bookbinder @wfadvisors.com ’81 BRIAN G. SHARP released
an album, FreakWhenSee Universe. On a scale of 1 to 10, four of his songs were rated 10 for originality, and one of his songs was rated 10 for imagery/ poetics by the Great American Song Contest. Brian’s artist’s name is Rippah. Learn more at www. Rippah.com. Brian lives with his wife, Krista, and their cat, Zazu, in Sausalito, CA. ’82 GREGORY T. FISH
CHRISTIAN LEE '78 VISITED THE AVON OLD FARMS CAMPUS WITH HIS WIFE, LAURA, DURING THE SUMMER. HE SHARED THE FOLLOWING REFLECTIONS FROM HIS VISIT. "TO ASPIRE AND PERSEVERE— THESE WORDS HELPED SHAPE MY DIRECTION, DRIVE, FOCUS, AND CONTINUED PASSION FOR NOT ONLY MY CAREER BUT, MORE IMPORTANT, MY RELATIONSHIPS WITH MY FAMILY, FRIENDS, AND BUSINESS ASSOCIATES. I WILL ALWAYS BE GRATEFUL FOR AVON OLD FARMS SCHOOL AND THE IMMENSELY VALUABLE PREPARATION FOR LIFE'S JOURNEY THAT EVERYONE THERE SO GRACIOUSLY OFFERED."
Head Class Agent 32 Castlewood Rd. Simsbury, CT 06089 gtf324@yahoo.com ’83 WILLIAM E. ESCHERT
Co-Head Class Agent 24 Westland Rd. Avon, CT 06001-3197 billeschert@yahoo.com ’83 RICHARD C. GREGORY
Co-Head Class Agent 30 Walnut Farms Dr. Farmington, CT 06032 rick@rcgregory.com
45
’84 JOHN S. GORDON
Head Class Agent 246 Nacoochee Dr. NW Atlanta, GA 30305 falconatlfan@gmail.com ’85 SAM L. RUBENSTEIN
Head Class Agent 1148 Apollo Gardens St. Henderson, NV 89052 richmondsr@aol.com ’86 STEPHEN R. GORMAN
Head Class Agent 13 Smith Ln. Burlington, CT 06013-1201 stephen.r.gorman@gmail.com ’87 HAROLD R. BEACHAM JR.
Head Class Agent 6 Tower Dr., Dover, MA 02030 hal.beacham44@comcast.net ’88 SHAWN E. ATKINSON
Co-Head Class Agent 428 Ridgewood Ave. Glen Ridge, NJ 07028 shawnatki@gmail.com ’88 PETER D. REED
Co-Head Class Agent 91 Butternut Ln. Southport, CT 06890 pdreed18@gmail.com ’89 ROBERT M. WILEMAN
Head Class Agent 7425 N.E. 97th Terr. Oklahoma City, OK 73151-9121 rmw@wilemanagency.com
90s ’90 PETER J. DECKERS ON THEIR RECENT VISIT TO SEE LUIS CONSUEGRA ’14 IN VIETNAM, ANDY CONSUEGRA ’80, P’14; HIS WIFE, MERCEDES VELASCO P’14; MERCEDES’S SISTER, MARIA TERESA HEUZE; AND NEPHEW EDDY CONSUEGRA ’11 ARE PICTURED AT THE METROPOLE HOTEL IN HANOI. FUN FACT: THE METROPOLE HOTEL HAS A PICTURE IN ITS LOBBY OF AVON OLD FARMS ALUMNUS PETE SEEGER ’36 FROM HIS VISIT IN THE 1960S.
Head Class Agent 500 Old Farms Rd. Avon, CT 0600 deckersp@avonoldfarms.com ’91 MICHAEL M. MULLIN IV
Head Class Agent 8 Nickerson Ln. Darien, CT 06820 ’92 DAMIEN J. EGAN
Head Class Agent 52 Brookview Ct. Groton, CT 06340-5528 degan2@hotmail.com
46
CLASS NOTES
Chevy Chase A P R I L 1 7, 2 0 1 9
Avonians, parents, and past faculty members gathered for lively reminiscing and cocktails at the Chevy Chase Club. The event was hosted by Dean Graham ’84 and his wife, Debra, as well as Adam Stifel ’99 and his wife, Laura. PAT BAHN ’81, ADAM FINE ’04, ANGELICA SURRA, JACKSON HOWARD ’05, AND ROXANA HOWARD
SEE WHO WAS THERE: WWW.AVONOLDFARMS.COM/EVENTS
’93 TRAVIS MERRITT
Head Class Agent 121 Rumson Rd. Little Silver, NJ 07739 merritttravis@yahoo.com ’94 GRAHAM C. FULLER
Co-Head Class Agent 2937 Morris Rd. Ardmore, PA 19003-1832 grahamcraigfuller@gmail.com ’94 PAUL M. GOZZO
PETER MAZZA '97 (CENTER) AND CHRIS HETHERINGTON '91 (RIGHT) WITH A FORMER CLASSMATE FROM YALE, ERIC JOHNSON (LEFT), ENJOY A ROUND OF GOLF.
Co-Head Class Agent 1 Country Farm Cross Rd. Stratham, NH 03885-2536 11pgoz@gmail.com ’95 ANTHONY D. SILVESTRO
Head Class Agent 4 Haskell Rd. Andover, MA 01810 tony.silvestro@insperity.com ’96 MARK A. CARUSO
DANIEL “D. J.” KNECHT ’99 AND HIS WIFE, MARYBETH, WELCOMED SIOBHAN KATHLEEN KNECHT ON AUGUST 25, 2019.
’96 CHARLES “CHUCK” MONACO JR. is still an avid
everything they say it is and more. The trip went by fast, but the next time I come out to New England, I want to set aside a few hours to visit Avon. I have a couple of old AOF track jackets, and I wore one on race day. Fellow Avonian
runner and currently lives in California. He qualified to run in the Boston Marathon last April and shared with us the following: “I finished in 3:34:54. It was
caught it and asked me if I was wearing a ’90s Avon jacket. And I wore a Winged Beaver T-shirt the whole race. A couple of spectators
Head Class Agent 124 Westminster Rd. Chatham, NJ 07928-1364 mcaruso@gmail.com
BRIAN R. EMERSON ’96
yelled out ’Go Avon’ as I ran by them.” He also shared, “I hope to qualify to run Boston one more time. Good luck to the AOF cross country and track teams! That’s where I got my start running, and it stayed with me all these years.”
’97 KYLE R. YOUNGQUIST
Co-Head Class Agent 14 Wychview Dr. Westfield, NJ 07090-1821 bigkyleyoungquist@gmail.com ’98 GEOFFREY R. BARLOW
Co-Head Class Agent 500 Old Farms Rd. Avon, CT 06001 barlowg@avonoldfarms.com
’97 TIMOTHY B. STAY
’98 J. ANDREW CORRIGAN
Co-Head Class Agent 2024 Upland Way #205 Philadelphia, PA 19131 timothystay@gmail.com
Co-Head Class Agent 78 West 85th St., Apt. 5B New York, NY 10024 jamesandrewcorrigan@gmail.com
The Avonian // FALL 2019
47
’99 DAVID R. GRYBOSKI
Co-Head Class Agent 101 South Bay Blvd, Suite B-3, PO Box 732 Anna Maria, FL 34216-0732 david@ghgdevelopment.com ’99 ANDREW M. KUNISCH
Co-Head Class Agent 4037 Mansion Dr. NW Washington, DC 20007-2851 kunisch23@yahoo.com ’99 STEPHEN A. ZAPPONE
Co-Head Class Agent 71 Hartwell Rd. West Hartford, CT 06117-1912 zappones@yahoo.com
00s ’00 MICHAEL J. O’NEILL
Co-Head Class Agent 16 Old Colony Dr. Dove, MA 02030 michaeloneill27@yahoo.com ’00 DANIEL J. SEIDEN
Co-Head Class Agent 117 Willow Oaks Ln. Summerville, SC 29483 seidend@gmail.com ’01 CHRISTOPHER D. COLEMAN
Co-Head Class Agent 210 Foote St. Barrington, RI 02806-2943 christopherdcoleman@gmail.com ’01 NICHOLAS H. LAROCQUE
Co-Head Class Agent 1072 College Ave. Palo Alto, CA 94306 larocque.nicholas@gmail.com ’02 WILLIAM N. PALMER
Head Class Agent 5835 Cherokee Dr. Fairway, KS 66205 wnpalmer@gmail.com ’03 JAMES T. TANG
CHARLES “CHUCK” MONACO ’96 CELEBRATES HIS FIRST TIME RUNNING AND COMPLETING THE BOSTON MARATHON.
Head Class Agent 300 East 84th St. Apt. 2A New York, NY 10028 jamesttang@gmail.com
48
CLASS NOTES
GILMAN CALLSEN ’04, VOTED MOST LIKELY TO BECOME AN ASSISTANT COACH FOR A T-BALL TEAM, REALIZED HIS DESTINY AND IS (ASSISTANT) COACHING HIS SONS LUCIUS AND BENNETT FOR THEIR FIRST SEASON!
Philadelphia N OV E M B E R 1 0, 2 0 1 8
Director Wade McDevitt ’82 hosted a reception at his home for Avonians to gather over conversation and cocktails as they toasted Ken LaRocque’s last year as headmaster.
PERRY BENSON ’65, TIM TRAUTMAN ’75, P’03, AND ANDREW VALENTINE ’05
SEE WHO WAS THERE: WWW.AVONOLDFARMS.COM/EVENTS
The Avonian // FALL 2019
CRAIG CHESTER '01, AND HIS WIFE, AMY, CELEBRATED THE BIRTH OF THEIR FIRST CHILD, REBECCA "REBBIE" LOUISE CHESTER, ON JULY 1, 2019. THEY LIVE OUTSIDE WASHINGTON, D.C., IN UNIVERSITY PARK, MARYLAND, AROUND THE CORNER FROM JIM HOWARD '76.
49
’04 MATTHEW H. MORAN
’07 TYLER C. HADDAD
Head Class Agent 1605 Sansom St. #206 Philadelphia, PA 19103 matthew.h.moran@gmail.com
Co-Head Class Agent 81 Brookside Dr. Longmeadow, MA 01106-2319 tyler.c.haddad@gmail.com
’05 DANE G. LEMERIS
’08 WILL H. HENDRICKS
Head Class Agent 795 Columbus Ave., Apt. 7D New York, NY 10025 dlemeris@gmail.com
Co-Head Class Agent 3818 Highland Ave. Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 willheatonhendricks@gmail.com
’06 KEVIN T. DRISCOLL
’08 KEVIN S. SISTI
Co-Head Class Agent 252 E 61st St., Apt. 3BN New York, NY 10065-0350 kevin.t.driscoll@gmail.com
Co-Head Class Agent 64 Pinnacle Rd. Farmington, CT 06032 kevin@oldlimeproductions.com
’06 JOSHUA P. PAVANO
’09 JOHN (BEN) BEATH
Co-Head Class Agent 60 Forest Hills Dr. Farmington, CT 06032-3017 jpavano@gmail.com
Head Class Agent 1152 Rue laVille Walk St. Louis, MO 63141 beathj@gmail.com
’07 CASEY R. COONS
Co-Head Class Agent 50A Oak St. Wakefield, MA 01880 caseycoons4@gmail.com
COACH JOHN GARDNER, RUSS LALLIER '03, BRAD MORRIS '84, P’20, JIM DETORA P'12, MATT BISCALDI '00, DAVE JORGENSEN '97, MIKE O’NEILL '00, LUKE ARCHAMBAULT '04, CHIP KOHN JR. '93, AND NICK BONINO '07 ENJOY AN AVON OLD FARMS GOLF OUTING AT GREATHORSE IN HAMPDEN, MASS.
50
CLASS NOTES
BRAD LIPKVICH '06 AND HIS WIFE, MOLLY, WELCOMED THEIR FIRST CHILD, BEAU VICTOR LIPKVICH, ON APRIL 29, 2019.
THE BROTHERHOOD TURNS OUT FOR DAVE BARROS’S WEDDING. FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: MIKE BARROS '11, OLLIE ROTHMANN '11, DAVE BARROS '11, HARRY LYONS '11, AND COOPER O'CONNOR '11.
KADE MCCOY ’15 AND SOPHIE SMITH ARE ENGAGED! THE WEDDING DATE IS MARCH 21, 2020, IN CALIFORNIA.
Hartford JUNE 19, 2019
Alumni, friends, and family took advantage of the dugout suites and amenities at the Hartford Yard Goats baseball game to cheer the team on to victory. SCOTT KELLEHER '09, ANDREW CREED '04, JON FUGGE '04, CHARLES WARD '02, JUSTIN ARCHAMBAULT, BRIAN KELAHER '04, AND LUKE ARCHAMBAULT '04
SEE WHO WAS THERE: AVONOLDFARMS.COM/EVENTS
The Avonian // FALL 2019
51
VARSITY LACROSSE COACHES VISIT WITH FORMER LACROSSE PLAYERS AFTER THE AOF VS. BRUNSWICK SCHOOL GAME. FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: BRIAN MALCHOFF ’07, AUSTIN ROCCO ’13 , MATTHEW KOWALCHICK ’99, A.J. ROCCO ’13, AND HEAD COACH, KEITH LEE.
10s ’10 MATTHEW R. COZ
Head Class Agent 172 Webster St. Boston, MA 02128 ’11 OLIVER K. ROTHMANN
Head Class Agent 500 Old Farms Rd. Avon, CT 06001 rothmanno@avonoldfarms.com ’12 JOHN D. SHAMBURGER
Head Class Agent 4345 Brookview Dr. Atlanta, GA 30339 shamburgerd@gmail.com ’13 WILSON P. MEYER
Head Class Agent 355 Brook Mead Dr. Clarksville, TN 37042 wilsonpmeyer@gmail.com
’13H GAILANNE LAFERRIERE, former art
department chairperson, was invited to participate in the 16th-anniversary installation of Miss Florence’s Artist Tree at the Florence Griswold Museum, in Old Lyme, Conn. This year’s celebration, The Magic of Christmas, will run from November 29, 2019, to January 8, 2020, and feature Christmas trees decorated with actual artist palettes painted with images of the artists’ choice. Gail, also known as “Mrs. L” to her students, chose the classic Tower/Forge view as a tribute to Theodate Pope Riddle, whose life meshed with Florence Griswold’s. Both women had a robust interest in the fine arts.
GAIL LAFERRIERE H’13 IS SELECTED AS ONE OF THE ARTISTS FOR THE FLORENCE GRISWOLD MUSEUM CHRISTMAS PALETTE PROJECT.
52
CLASS NOTES
COACH JOHN GARDNER, SAM LEVIN '14, GRIFF MARTIN '13, AND CHASE ZIEKY '15 ATTEND THE CONNOR ZIEKY FOUNDATION GOLF TOURNAMENT AT THE TOPSTONE GOLF COURSE (SOUTH WINDSOR, CONN.) IN JULY.
’13 AUSTIN R. ROCCO and ’13 A.J. ROCCO, recently
appointed assistant men’s lacrosse coaches at Connecticut College, visited their old turf to scout the Avon Old Farms varsity lacrosse game against Brunswick School on May 8, 2019. After the game, they caught up with their former coaches, Keith Lee, Trevor Stern, and Brian Malchoff ’07. ’14 MICKOY R. NICHOL
Co-Head Class Agent 500 Old Farms Rd. Avon, CT 06001 nicholm@avonoldfarms.com
JACKIE CHEN ’15 VISITS THE AVON CAMPUS IN MAY. ONE OF HIS MANY STOPS AROUND CAMPUS WAS THE ESTABROOK FINE ARTS CENTER TO CATCH UP WITH HIS FORMER ART TEACHER, CRISTINA PINTON.
’14 RYAN D. PHILLIPS
’15 JACKIE CHEN visited Avon
Co-Head Class Agent 621 Allen Ct. NW Atlanta, GA 30327-351 ryanphillips@utexas.edu
in May 2019. He recently graduated from Washington University in St. Louis with a degree in business and a minor in architecture. He’s heading back to China to work in the business industry.
’15 WILLIAM C. DAVIS
Co-Head Class Agent 11 Parker Rd. Avon, CT 06001 cdavis7@me.com ’15 CHRISTIAN E. Di ANTONIO
Co-Head Class Agent 520 Dingleton Hill Rd. Cornish, NH 03745-4521 diantoniochristian@gmail.com
’15 KADE C. McCOY is engaged
to Sophie Smith. Kade and Sophie met at Lewis and Clark College in Portland, Ore., where Kade was a four-year member of the golf team. He graduated last spring with a degree in rhetoric and media studies. Sophie, who is
from Newport Beach, Calif., is now at Western Governors University, earning a degree in elementary education. ’15 BRENT A. NOSEWORTHY
was a first-round pick during the National Lacrosse League Draft in Philadelphia for the Buffalo Bandits. After playing varsity lacrosse at Avon, Noseworthy went on to play at the University of Michigan and holds the leading scorer record for the program.
Darien OCTOBER 22, 2019
Brett '84 and Cathy Jefferson and Brian '82, H'13, P'20, and Laurie Conroy P'20 hosted a great evening at the Tokeneke Club in Darien, Conn., for our Fairfield county alumni, parents, and friends. JIM DETORA P’12, KAREN DETORA P’12, CATHY JEFFERSON, BRETT JEFFERSON ’84, AND BRIAN CONROY’82, H’13, P’20
SEE WHO WAS THERE: WWW.AVONOLDFARMS.COM/EVENTS
The Avonian // FALL 2019
53
IN MEMORIAM
THE SCHOOL HAS LEARNED OF THE FOLLOWING DEATHS: CROSSAN HAYS CURRY ’43 FORMER VARSITY LACROSSE HEAD COACH SKIP FLANAGAN VISITS FORMER LACROSSE PLAYER GRANT LONG '17 AT ROLLINS COLLEGE.
RICHARD I. HALL ’49 MICHAEL MILLER ’49
’16 MATTHEW T. HORTON
Co-Head Class Agent 41 Ironwood Rd., Guilford, CT 06437 horton_matt@bentley.edu
’19 MAXWELL A. MILLER Head Class Agent 625 Treehouse Cir. Saint Augustine, FL 32095-6837 mmiller20413@gmail.com
’16 ALESSIO MARCOGLIESE
WARREN H. COCHRANE ’55 JOHN VALLUZZO ’56
Head Class Agent 55 Shore Rd. Clinton, CT 06413 ksieber@friars.providence.edu
’18 KEVIN E. HUVELDT
Head Class Agent 96 Four Mile Rd. West Hartford, CT 06107-2703 kevinhuveldt4@gmail.com
JOHN F. NICHOLS ’52
GERALD B. SHERRY ’54
’17 KEVIN A. SIEBER
finished his sophomore year and is a contributing member of the Rollins College men’s lacrosse program. He also earned spots on both the fall and spring Rollins Athletic Director’s Honor Roll.
FRANK G. LEAVITT ’52, P’76, GP’15
AMASA RUST KESSEL ’54
Co-Head Class Agent 590 Kindersley Montreal, QC H3R 1S4 alessio.marcogliese@gmail.com
’17 GRANT M. LONG just
GEORGE DUBOIS ’50
JOHN W. CONLON JR. ’57 RICHARD G. CROFT JR. ’59, P’83 WILLIAM S. FAIRCHILD ’65 MATT GILL '16 AND JOHN WITKOWSKI '15 BOTH SIGNED CONTRACTS THIS SUMMER TO CONTINUE THEIR BASEBALL CAREERS. WITKOWSKI SIGNED WITH THE ST. LOUIS CARDINALS, AND GILL SIGNED WITH THE CINCINNATI REDS. THEY WILL COMPETE AGAINST EACH OTHER NOW AS PROFESSIONALS BUT PREVIOUSLY PLAYED FOR THE SAME TEAMS AT AVON AND AT BOSTON COLLEGE.
KIRK R. HANLON ’75
54
The Last Word The following images were selected from a new faculty art exhibit on display in the Ordway Art Gallery.
SEMAJ CAMPBELL
The Avonian // FALL 2019
55
SEMAJ CAMPBELL
CRISTINA PINTON, CHAIR, VISUAL ARTS DEPARTMENT
56
The Avonian // FALL 2019
PARTING SHOT Field day 2019
57
Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Albany, NY Permit No. 97 500 Old Farms Road Avon, Connecticut 06001 www.avonoldfarms.com
CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED
Parents If this issue is addressed to your son or to your family, but your son no longer maintains an address at your home, please reach out to us with the correct address. Email us at: alumni@avonoldfarms.com or use our form online at: www.avonoldfarms.com/UpdateAddress
The Investiture of James M. Detora Seventh Headmaster of Avon Old Farms School O C TO B E R 1 9 , 2 0 1 9
Ll