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Here we are: the fall of 2024. It’s hard to believe that another school year is well underway, and even harder to comprehend that Avon’s centennial class is already an established part of our community. In this edition of The Avonian, I not only wanted to celebrate our achievements but also our roots, reflecting on how far we’ve come and the values that have guided our beloved school.
Avon Old Farms has come a long way since first opening its doors in 1927 with 48 students, seven faculty, and a provost. Our physical plant, faculty, and student body have expanded. We’ve developed our athletics program from its humble beginnings of intramurals and polo into a robust department of 13 sports and 34 teams. In this magazine, we report on the latest installment of our Visiting Author Program, which continues to inspire and enlighten our students. We also share news from Reunion 2024, in which two alumni were presented with the Distinguished Alumnus Award: the Class of 1984’s Dean Graham and Brett Jefferson. These men exemplify the impact an Avon education can have and are a source of inspiration for our students.
In the arts, we feature the story of Joon Lee ’25, whose creativity and dedication to the theater world have earned him a special place in the Avon community. In athletics, we shine a spotlight on Teddy Lister ’25, a standout athlete whose hard work and perseverance are a true reflection of the Avonian spirit. Additionally, we celebrate the induction of George Springer ’08 into the Avon Athletic Hall of Fame, honoring his exceptional contributions to baseball.
Over the years, we’ve been very purposeful in our mission as a school and have taken great pride in honoring the traditions that exist at Avon. As our school begins to contemplate a centennial celebration, I’ve been drawn toward thoughts of our founder, Theodate Pope Riddle and wonder what she’d think of Avon as we know it today. I believe she’d be proud. In her honor, this magazine recognizes and celebrates the contributions of the current women of Avon. Their presence and influence have enriched our community in countless ways, and their stories are integral to the fabric of our school’s history.
I hope you enjoy these stories, and I wish everyone a joyful end to the year.
Aspirando et perseverando, JACQUELINE KELLER, EDITOR kellerj@avonoldfarms.com (860) 404-4116
Established 1927
HEAD OF SCHOOL
Jim Detora P’12
ASSOCIATE HEAD OF SCHOOL
Robert J. Whitty ’87, P’16
MANAGING EDITOR
Jacqueline Keller
ASSISTANT EDITOR
Adam Hushin
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
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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.
Dear Avonians,
As the leaves turn and the crisp autumn air settles over our campus, I am pleased to reflect on the successful start of the 2024–25 academic year. This fall has infused our community with renewed energy, both in the classrooms and throughout campus. One of my key priorities this year is to guide our students toward more mindful use of technology, particularly cell phones. We’ve introduced new cell phone-free zones, including the Refectory, Chapel, and Brown Auditorium. These spaces foster meaningful conversations and stronger connections, helping us all engage more fully in the moments that make our school truly special.
On a beautiful September day, we gathered to dedicate the Peter A. Aron Patio in honor of the late Peter Aron ’65. Joined by Peter’s family and the entire student body, we reflected on his decades of service and philanthropy, which were instrumental in the growth of Avon Old Farms. The new patio stands as a lasting tribute to his legacy.
Later in the fall, we honored the late David C. Bigelow ’44 and his family with a special dedication, recognizing their generous support of Nimrod Cabin. The Nimrod Club was a cherished part of David’s experience, and combined with the continued support of Hunt Eldridge, Jr. ’69, it will continue to inspire a spirit of service, teamwork, and a love of the outdoors for generations to come.
These events underscore the vital role our alumni play in both our history and our future. Reunion provides a wonderful opportunity for former students to reconnect, reminisce, and see firsthand how their school continues to thrive. The bonds formed at Avon Old Farms endure through time, and I encourage all alumni to return and share in the pride of our community.
This issue also highlights our founder, Theodate Pope Riddle, and her visionary goal of creating an indestructible school for boys. As we examine the influence of women in various leadership roles on our campus, it’s important to recognize the invaluable contributions of every woman at Avon Old Farms who works tirelessly to enrich our students’ experiences each day.
As we near the Thanksgiving break, I’m reminded of the many reasons our community has to be grateful. Thank you for being an essential part of what makes Avon Old Farms truly exceptional.
Aspirando et perseverando,
JIM DETORA P’12 Head of School
FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL
village green
EMBRACING DISCOMFORT TO ASPIRE AND PERSEVERE:
Michael Easter Visits Avon Old Farms
On Monday, December 9, Avon Old Farms School will welcome Michael Easter, the renowned author of The Comfort Crisis: Embrace Discomfort to Reclaim Your Wild, Happy, Healthy Self, to campus for our annual Visiting Author Program. Easter’s work is a compelling exploration of the modern tendency to avoid discomfort and how this profoundly impacts our lives. His visit is particularly significant, as his message resonates with our school motto, aspirando et perseverando—to aspire and persevere.
In The Comfort Crisis, Easter argues that true growth and fulfillment come not from seeking comfort but from embracing the challenges that push us beyond our perceived limits. He says, “The modern comforts and conveniences that now most influence our daily experience have been used around 0.03 percent of the time we’ve walked on the earth … Constant comfort is a radically new thing for us humans.” He then asks readers, “What could cleansing ourselves of these comforts do for us?” This philosophy aligns perfectly
with Avon’s commitment to encouraging students to aspire to greatness and persevere through adversity. By intentionally stepping out of our comfort zones, we can cultivate resilience, determination, and a sense of purpose—qualities that are essential for success in all aspects of life.
Dean of Studies Graham Callaghan ’95, P’25 led the Visiting Author selection process this year, bringing names and titles to Avon’s administration for consideration.
“Ultimately, we decided on Michael Easter because he is a journalist, and we felt The Comfort Crisis is a good story that our general school population will enjoy,” comments Callaghan. “Easter is a teaching professor in the school of journalism at UNLV and has been featured in popular news programs, so I expect he will be an engaging speaker to have on campus. The Comfort Crisis also covers a variety of areas of interest, so it has a great chance of resonating in some respect with a large group of people. Finally, his book works well with our Health and
Wellness/Character curriculum. Resilience was a theme of our programming last year, and Easter’s book interestingly explores our tendency to seek out comfort at all costs, which can be a barrier to fulfilling our potential.”
For high school boys, The Comfort Crisis offers an invaluable lesson in the importance of facing challenges head-on. In an age of instant gratification and convenience, Easter’s message serves as a powerful reminder that the most rewarding experiences often involve enduring hardship and pushing through
discomfort. His book provides practical advice and inspiring stories that can help Avonians develop the mental and physical fortitude necessary to navigate the complexities of life with confidence and courage. Michael Easter’s visit will undoubtedly have a lasting impact, inspiring our community to embrace discomfort as a path toward growth and fulfillment. We look forward to the insights and inspiration he will bring to our campus this December. All are invited to watch the keynote address via our livestream at avonoldfarms.com/livestream.
The modern comforts and conveniences that now most influence our daily experience have been used around 0.03 percent of the time we’ve walked on the earth ...
Constant comfort is a radically new thing for us humans.
— MICHAEL EASTER
Preserving Tradition: THE NIMROD ENDOWMENT FUND
The Nimrod Club at Avon Old Farms School has long been a pillar of community, conservation, and camaraderie. As Avon’s oldest club, Nimrod has nurtured a profound respect for nature and a commitment to service among generations of Avonians. The Nimrod Club was started by Verne Priest, who was hired by Theodate Pope Riddle to teach students how to manage the forest surrounding Avon Old Farms. Mr. Priest founded the club to instill in students an appreciation for the natural world through hands-on learning and teamwork—two of Mrs. Riddle’s key principles.
Almost 100 years later, Nimrod’s lasting impact would not be possible
without the generosity and dedication of donors who have ensured its continued vitality through the Nimrod Endowment Fund.
Established in 2009 by Huntington “Hunt” Eldridge Jr. ’69, the Nimrod Endowment Fund was created to support the club and its mission in perpetuity. The fund covers maintenance, programming, and upkeep for core Nimrod initiatives, such as stocking Beaver Pond, dock maintenance, weekly cookouts, and repairs to vehicles and tools, while also strengthening Avon’s overall endowment.
Sadly, Hunt passed away in 2016. He had been a board member of the Buchanan Family Foundation, and his deeply moving Nimrod experience
influenced the foundation to spearhead Nimrod Cabin rebuilding efforts in 2018. The new cabin retains the rustic charm of the original structure while providing better weather protection, ensuring that future generations of students can enjoy it as a hub for the club’s activities.
Huntington Eldridge III, Hunt’s son, shares his father’s connection to the Nimrod Club’s values. He noted that Nimrod is “a special experience that brings boys together in a way that’s increasingly rare. There’s a sense of brotherhood and purpose.” With this in mind, Huntington and the Buchanan Family Foundation presented a new gift challenge to the Avon community in 2024: they
would solidify the endowment’s impact with a new contribution if the Avon community would match it.
The Nimrod Club was also a transformative experience for David C. Bigelow ’44. His daughter, Cindi, recalls how much her father cherished his time in the club, noting, “At Avon, his favorite thing to do was to work with Verne Priest. Chopping wood, cleaning up the forest, serving the team food—he absolutely loved the chores and that older man.”
Understanding how meaningful the Nimrod Club was to her father, Cindi Bigelow stepped forward to meet the Buchanan Foundation’s challenge with her own gift to the endowment. Her contribution, coupled with the Buchanan Family Foundation’s support, underscores the significance of the AOF experience and the powerful connections between generations that unite Avon families.
The gifts from Huntington and
What’s especially impressive is the inherited impact that the club and its leaders have had on Avonians and their loved ones, as evidenced by the impactful gifts from the Eldridge and Bigelow families.
— CHRIS WEBB
Cindi were inspired not just by the time their fathers spent at Avon but specifically because of their Nimrod journeys.
This resonates with Chief Advancement Officer Chris Webb, who regularly works with the Nimrod Club. “The Nimrod Club is a unique intersection of people, program, and place—where I think about inspiring faculty leaders like Priest, Leavitt, Durphey, Rice, Crocker, Kassel, and others, who have shared their insights, knowledge, and passion for
the outdoors. The base of operations since the club’s earliest days has always been the Nimrod Cabin. It is fundamental to the program’s identity and is one of the most beautiful places on campus.
“Given all of this, what’s especially impressive is the inherited impact that the club and its leaders have had on Avonians and their loved ones, as evidenced by the impactful gifts from the Eldridge and Bigelow families. Their generosity, and that of others, will ensure that the Nimrod Club and
its leadership will have the opportunity to educate, shape, guide, and positively influence future Avonians forever.”
Today’s Nimrod members continue to gather each Sunday to clear trails and enjoy fellowship on Tuesday evenings at Nimrod Cabin. Thanks to the philanthropic partnership of the Eldridge and Bigelow families, the Nimrod Club will continue to foster a spirit of service, teamwork, and a love of the outdoors for generations to come.
DISTINGUISHED ALUMNUS AWARD
Alumni awards are important for schools for several reasons. They recognize and celebrate the professional and personal accomplishments of alumni, building a sense of pride among current students, staff, and other alumni. Alumni awards also foster a stronger sense of community by maintaining and deepening the connection between the school and its graduates, which encourages ongoing involvement and support from alumni. Highlighting the achievements of alumni also provides current students with role models and demonstrates the potential paths they can take after
graduation. It instills a sense of aspiration and motivates students to pursue their goals with the knowledge that success is possible.
The Avon Old Farms Distinguished Alumnus Award recognizes a deserving alumnus who has achieved distinction in his professional career, humanitarian endeavors, or other areas of his life. This award honors an individual who has embraced the core values emphasized at Avon Old Farms. This year, two members of the Class of 1984 are being honored with Avon’s Distinguished Alumnus Award: Brett Jefferson and Dean Graham.
Brett Jefferson ’84
Brett arrived at Avon Old Farms as a sophomore in 1981, quickly embracing the Avon community. Inspired by role models among faculty and students, he thrived within Avon’s rigorous structure both academically and personally. He played varsity football, hockey, and lacrosse, captaining the 1984 lacrosse team, which was inducted into Avon’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 2009.
Brett attended Syracuse University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in English and played on the varsity lacrosse team. The team was the NCAA runner-up in 1985 and won the national championship in 1988. In 2023, Brett was named a Letterwinner of Distinction at Syracuse. In 1996, he received his MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management and moved to New York City to pursue a career in finance.
Starting at Smith Barney, Brett worked as a banker in a new asset class focusing on packaging complex credit instruments. In 2002, he joined Marathon Asset Management, becoming a pioneer in structured credit. In 2008, Brett founded Hildene Capital Management to focus on investments within structured credit. The name Hildene stems from the Lincoln family summer home in Vermont, where Brett was married. Hildene has since grown into a highly successful asset management business, winning multiple industry awards and becoming a preeminent firm in the industry with a reputation for innovative thinking. In 2022, Hildene announced the formation of Hildene
Re, a captive reinsurance business to further its growth. Avon’s influence was pivotal for Brett, providing the foundation and confidence to strive for greatness.
“Being nominated for this award is probably more meaningful to me than many other awards because it truly all started at Avon,” Brett shares. “I often wonder what my life could have been had I not attended Avon, and it’s not a pretty thought. I needed to be around people who wanted to be successful—successful
friends, athletes, and role models. Avon provided that, and, looking back, it made all the difference.”
In honor of his mother, Catherine, who worked tirelessly to enable Brett to attend Avon, Brett and his wife, also named Catherine, established the Catherine Jefferson Foundation in 2012. This foundation led to the creation of the Edward A. Russell ’84 Scholarship at Avon, named after Brett’s close friend and lacrosse teammate who passed away in 1995. Brett takes great pride in meeting the
Dean Graham ’84
scholarship recipients and seeing Eddie’s legacy continue through their success.
To the current students of Avon Old Farms, Brett offers this advice: “One of the main problems I see facing today’s young people is the pressure to have everything figured out by the age of 15. In a very fastpaced and ever-changing world, I don’t think you should expect to have it figured out at that age. Instead, focus on developing skills—time management, maturity, life skills, and people skills. Know that you may have to adjust as the world changes. You’ll probably have to reinvent yourself at some point, and that’s where those life skills will lead you.”
As Brett reflects on his journey, he expresses deep gratitude for the experiences and connections that Avon Old Farms provided. “Avon did a lot for me, and I have no idea where I would be without it. The school doesn’t operate on its own; it takes a community. I’m fortunate to be able to help others go to Avon and to meet the scholarship recipients who carry on the legacy of our class.”
With this award, Avon Old Farms celebrates not only Brett’s professional achievements but also his commitment to giving back to the school that shaped him. His story is a powerful reminder of the lasting impact Avon has on its students and the profound ways in which alumni can contribute to the continued success of the school and its community. Brett and his wife live in Durham, North Carolina, with their three children: Tyler, Reese, and Izzy.
“Brett Jefferson and I began our Avon Old Farms adventures together,
I needed to be around people who wanted to be successful—successful friends, athletes, and role models. Avon provided that, and, looking back, it made all the difference.
— BRETT JEFFERSON ’84
in the fall of 1981 in Eagle Dormitory,” reminisces former Head of School Ken LaRocque H’19, P’01, ’10. “Looking at Brett’s journey through Avon and beyond, I am impressed, but not surprised, by the success he has enjoyed. Brett is a doggedly determined person who embraces challenges rather than evading them, who unabashedly and resolutely pursues his goals no matter the degree of difficulty. As a young 15-year-old, away from home for the first time, Brett took advantage of the opportunities Old Farms presented him to claim his independence, to forge friendships, to manage his responsibilities, to compete, and to stretch himself past his comfort zone in all areas of life. Taking those life lessons and skills with him to Syracuse and beyond, Brett has evolved into a highly successful man, not only in business but also as a family man and citizen of the world. I could not be prouder of him.”
Dean grew up in Avon, Conn. However, attending the private all-boys boarding school in town wasn’t always a part of the plan. “There was a soccer coach, Juan Comella, who somehow reached out to me and my family to talk about Avon. I ended up applying and attending as a ninth grader. This guy saw me play at Fisher Meadows, recruited me, I ended up getting a scholarship, and the rest is history. Without him, my whole journey would have been completely different.”
Dean excelled academically and won numerous awards while at Avon Old Farms, including the Harvard Book Prize for academic excellence and high character combined with achievement in other fields. In athletics, he shone in varsity soccer, swimming, and he too was a member of the Hall of Fame 1984 lacrosse team. Every summer, Dean worked with Avon’s dorm crews doing maintenance and repair work, even cleaning the most daunting location on campus—the tunnels under the heating grates in the Riddle Refectory. These grates, with their wide mesh, are infamous for eating up food almost as quickly as Avon students. “I was down there with a flashlight, scooping out old spaghetti from the 1970s!” recalls Dean. For him, the task that would leave a good number of students aghast made Avon all the more endearing. Dean’s leadership and commitment to his school was recognized in his election as Vice Warden of the Student Council and Head Day Student Monitor. At graduation, he received the Founder’s Medal.
Avon’s philosophy of hard work, brotherhood, scholarship, integrity, and sportsmanship continued to guide Dean after graduation. He attended Harvard University on a work–study scholarship where he earned an AB with distinction in history and played varsity lacrosse. Reflecting on his time at Avon, Dean credits the school with preparing him for the challenges he would face at Harvard and beyond. “The discipline, the goal setting, the mentorship I received at Avon— these were all instrumental in shaping my future,” Dean recalls. “When I arrived at Harvard, I realized how well prepared I was, all thanks to Avon.”
After graduation, he played professional lacrosse in Australia before earning a master’s in political philosophy at the University of Cambridge and a JD from the University of Virginia School of Law. Dean began his career in Washington, D.C., as an attorney specializing in corporate finance and later became a nationally recognized finance executive and entrepreneur. In 2001, he co-founded and became the President and CEO of CapitalSource Inc., one of the largest independent commercial finance companies in the United States. Over the last two decades, he founded and was CEO of several successful private credit and specialty finance companies.
“You never know which class or mentor will shape your life, but looking back, one stands out for me: Peter Evans and his US history course. He encouraged me to enter a constitutional essay contest, where my paper on the Fourth Amendment reached the finals. Through that contest, I got to meet a Connecticut state court judge and Harvard alum,
The
discipline, the goal setting, the mentorship I received at Avon—these were all instrumental in shaping my future. When I arrived at Harvard, I realized how well prepared I was, all thanks to Avon.
— DEAN GRAHAM ’84
who would end up writing a college recommendation for me. That whole experience also encouraged my decision to pursue law. That’s just one way Avon has been keeping a steady, invisible hand on my ship’s rudder.”
Dean remained closely connected to Avon Old Farms throughout his career. He joined the Board of Directors in 2004, becoming the youngest chairman in the school’s history. Under Dean’s leadership, together with Head of School Kenneth LaRocque, the Board spearheaded significant campus developments, including the Beatson Performing Arts Center, the Athletic Complex, and the Brown Student Center, which transformed Mrs. Riddle’s campus. In recognition of his service and dedication to the school, Dean was awarded the Alumni Order of Old Farms.
“There exists a long list of Avonians who have impacted the Winged Beaver community in important ways, and Dean Graham is one of those individuals,” says Ken, who introduced both Dean and Brett
at the Distinguished Alumnus Award ceremony over Reunion Weekend. “His service and generosity to the Old Farms community is impressive. From hosting numerous alumni receptions at the Chevy Chase Club, to his long tenure on our Board of Directors, to his enthusiastic advocacy of our school, he is a true Man of Avon. Thanks to Dean’s business acumen, we were able to create a financial plan that allowed us to build a host of critically needed facilities on campus during the early and mid-2000s. As Chairman of our Board of Directors, Dean successfully led us through our first major capital campaign while deftly guiding us through the financial crisis of 2008, the major fire in Brown House Dormitory, and countless other challenges. I leaned on him heavily during those trying times, and Dean always answered my call and had my back when I had difficult decisions to make. Dean’s leadership and tireless efforts on behalf of Avon Old Farms have helped transform our school in meaningful ways. He is clearly a distinguished alumnus who has selflessly served our community throughout his life.”
As you might expect, Avon continues to hold a special place in the hearts of the Graham family. Dean’s brother graduated in 1985, and Dean and his wife, Debra, were married in the Chapel. Their three children attended numerous events and camps at Avon, and Dean’s parents were awarded the Adams Medal for outstanding service to the school. In appreciation, Dean and his wife established the Graham Family Scholarship to provide financial aid to Avon students. Dean remains
forever grateful to the teachers, coaches, and mentors who had a positive influence on his life’s journey.
“I have known Dean Graham for some forty years,” comments Peter Evans H’18, P’98, former AOF faculty, coach, dean, and director of development. “Driven to do his best in the right way always, Dean has been a high-energy, other-centered individual who captures the essence of Avon’s motto: aspirando et perseverando. From when I knew him as an outstanding scholar–athlete at Avon in the ’80s to this day, some things haven’t changed. His smile is contagious, and his sense of humor is driven by positive thinking. Simply put, it’s uplifting to be around him. Dean loves people and is a loyal friend. On the Avon Old Farms School front, Dean has been a long-time proponent and supporter of the school. I vividly recall when he was willing to take over Chairman of the Board responsibilities at a pivotal moment. In this regard, Dean has been an important contributing force toward the dramatic evolution of Avon Old Farms in recent decades. For this, we owe Dean a sincere debt of gratitude.”
Dean’s reaction to receiving the Distinguished Alumnus Award was one of genuine surprise. “I was completely shocked when I found out,” he admits. “It’s an incredible honor, but it’s not something I ever sought. My gratitude goes to the school, the teachers, and the staff who truly deserve recognition.”
The legacies of Brett Jefferson and Dean Graham serve as powerful testaments to the enduring impact of Avon Old Farms. Through their remarkable achievements and unwavering commitment to Avon’s
values, they have not only distinguished themselves in their respective fields but also given back generously to the community that shaped them. With their stories now added to the Distinguished Alumnus Award wall in the Brown Student Center, future generations of Avonians will read
about these two exceptional leaders and draw inspiration from their stories. As students walk the paths Brett and Dean once did, they can look to these alumni as beacons of aspiration and perseverance, embodying the spirit of Avon Old Farms.
SYDNEY SATCHELL
A Paralympic Gold Medalist Visits The Farm
Avon Old Farms School has seen more than its fair share of elite athletes visit campus throughout the years. In September, the school had the pleasure of welcoming another in Sydney Satchell—less than two weeks after she and her sitting volleyball team won gold at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris.
Interestingly, this wasn’t Sydney’s first visit to campus. The Windsor, Conn., native attended The Ethel Walker School and vividly remembers coming to Avon as a student. “I’ve been to a dance here. The lights were low, the music was bumping. I also came to some hockey games, obviously. My friends wanted to come to see the boys, but I was actually more interested in watching the game.”
As a student at Ethel Walker, Sydney was captain of the soccer, basketball, and lacrosse teams. At her graduation, she won the Meritorious Effort Cup, given to a senior who has “worked conscientiously toward improving her skills in athletics and has outstanding spirit, enthusiasm, and determination.” She was the only member of her graduating class to earn membership to the “Varsity Club” for earning 12 varsity letters during her high school career. She also served as the student body president.
One of her science teachers at the time was Jill Harrington, who now serves as the registrar and an academic dean at Avon. Jill took notice of Sydney’s combination of strong character and athletic abilities early in her high school career. “As
the volleyball coach, I would watch the fall teams and try to talk good athletes into playing volleyball in the winter. I tried to convince Sydney to switch from basketball or soccer in order to play volleyball for me. But she loved those sports too much and turned me down,” Jill shares. “As the student body president, she led with heart and passion, and we knew that she cared deeply about the school and about each of us.”
Sydney stayed in touch with Jill as she went on to play Division 1 lacrosse at Howard University. Less than a year after graduating from Howard, Sydney was involved in a life-altering car accident that resulted in the partial amputation of her left leg. “That was probably the most difficult decision I ever had to make,” she says.
For someone who spent her whole life identifying as an athlete, not being able to play soccer, basketball, or lacrosse again was devastating. It forced her to reevaluate who she was. It turns out, however, that athletics would still be in her future. While getting fitted for her first prosthetic, she was asked if she knew anything about sitting volleyball. She said she didn’t, but that she did know a volleyball coach. That’s when Sydney called Jill.
“I taught her a little volleyball and she has never looked back,” Jill explained to the entire school community gathered in the Brown Auditorium. “Her commitment to athletics and determination through her recovery led Howard University’s Athletic Department to name an award after her, the Sydney Satchell Award for Perseverance. She has experienced unforeseen turns along her journey, but her positive approach in the face of adversity has yielded a renewed spirit. Known as an optimist and the ultimate encourager, Sydney has shared her moving message with audiences throughout the United States. She is one of the strongest people I know, and I am proud to be part of her story and to introduce her to the Avon Old Farms community today.”
Sydney then began her address by gifting Jill a Team USA coaching medallion and thanked her. She then took out her gold medal, which elicited a collective “ooooooh” from the audience. Her message over the next 25 minutes explained that while the gold medal is certainly amazing to have, it’s not what makes someone
The champion mindset doesn’t start when you’re on the gold medal podium. It starts on the practice fields or the classrooms in places like Avon.
— SYDNEY SATCHELL
a champion. “The champion mindset doesn’t start when you’re on the gold medal podium. It starts on the practice fields or the classrooms in places like Avon.”
She also emphasized that you shouldn’t wait until you’re holding a gold medal to enjoy the pursuit of it. “What I realized is, you can still prioritize winning, but don’t wait until the end to enjoy the journey.” Her journey featured several setbacks even after losing part of her leg. She was left off the team heading to the Tokyo 2020 games and wasn’t guaranteed a
spot for Paris either. She reiterated that the hard work, aspiration, and perseverance is what made her a champion long before she ever won a gold medal. In the end, Sydney did make the team and became a world champion after defeating China in the gold medal match.
Sydney concluded her speech by leading the entire audience in a chant. “I’m strong. I’m courageous. And I won’t give up on me.”
Following the speech, Sydney sat in on various classes, ate lunch and dinner with students and staff, and met with student leaders during community time in the evening.
To learn more about Sydney, visit sydneysatchell.com.
Joon Lee ’25
The arts are a form of creative expression, but they can also be a means for escape. For our featured artist, Joon Lee ’25, his relationship with theater has transitioned from the latter to the former thanks to committed faculty and compassionate classmates.
Growing up, Joon’s family bounced back and forth between the US and South Korea. He spent his early childhood living in the Midwest before moving to his parents’ native Korea. He completed elementary school and most of middle school there before moving back to the US to finish out middle school and start high school. After his older brother experienced some difficulties transitioning from high school to college, Joon’s family began considering boarding school. They looked at some other institutions but ultimately decided Avon Old Farms School was the best choice.
Although Joon says it was the right choice, several factors contributed to him having a rough start. For one, COVID-19 was still a disruption for students academically and socially. It was also a completely new environment with new rules and old traditions to get used to. On top of all that, Joon’s mother, Soyeon, had recently been diagnosed with breast cancer and was set to undergo surgery during his first semester. “It was definitely a bit of a struggle,” Joon admits. “It was a difficult time to keep myself going, to keep up my happiness.”
As Joon was navigating this difficult time, he began to explore theater. Initially, he joined the fall play thinking he’d be a member of the tech crew, but that particular production, Lord of the Flies, called for more male actors than usual. Joon suddenly found himself in the spotlight portraying the character Bill, and he credits the Brotherhood with helping him to feel comfortable. “I was a bit unsure about acting, but I slowly warmed up to the idea. The seniors at the time were really friendly. It was nice to have them looking out for me.”
With his new brothers behind him, Joon was ready for his stage debut, but it was still unclear if his parents would be in the audience to witness it. His mother explains, “Right before his first theater performance in October 2021, I got breast cancer surgery. It went well, but we were not sure if I could see him on the stage or not because that was still during COVID. I needed to wear a mask, and I wasn’t fully recovered from the surgery, but I didn’t want to miss it. I remember that we were talking about which performance night would have the smaller-sized audience. I decided to go on the second day.”
Soyeon would go on to recover, and Joon would go on to thrive at Avon. He was now much more comfortable at his new school and began to pursue theater more
The feeling of completion when it was all over was amazing. Myself and all the actors had so much fun, and the audience being excited to see us made it feel really good. There’s not many places where people can get this type of opportunity at this age. I’m very thankful for the AIP program and for Mrs. Couch.
— JOON LEE ’25
seriously. He acted again that winter in the musical, The Theory of Relativity, and again in the spring when he played President FDR in Annie. He followed that up with more performances his sophomore year, including dipping his toes into Shakespeare with The Comedy of Errors and partaking in a very fun and entertaining rendition of SpongeBob the Musical. This past fall, he earned his first lead role for the school’s production of The Birds
His junior year, he was ready to explore a different facet of theater: playwriting. This opportunity was made possible through the Advanced Independent Project (AIP) program. Through the AIP program, Joon was able to use his afternoon activity time slot each day during the fall to work on his project. It helped that Joon had come up with an idea for a play earlier that summer.
Joon’s idea came while he was watching a video analysis of Paradise Lost, an epic poem from 17th-century English poet John Milton. Joon was intrigued by the poem’s parallels with the biblical story of creation and saw some potential for the story to be transformed into a comedy. The play
places Milton into the actual events of The Bible and follows him as he tries to write Paradise Regained, the sequel to Paradise Lost. Joon says the most difficult part of the process was making sure the play maintained a balance between humor and the heavier elements of the story. He says he had to work hard to make sure his story wasn’t “too preachy.” “The audience needs to know I’m just telling a story and not trying to sell them on something,” Joon explains.
Joon took inspiration from more modern stories as well. The characters of Hades in the 1997 Disney film Hercules and Beetlejuice from the 1998 film of the same name helped him create the villain of his story. “I thought I’d make Satan into one of those goofball-type villains. He’s obviously the bad guy, but he makes you laugh.” Joon says the humor of the story came very easily as he was writing it.
After writing, revising, and organizing his script, Joon then figured out how it would look on stage and cast all the roles. In the spring, Joon had the opportunity to organize it into a one-act play to be put on in the spring One Act Play
festival, a series of short plays directed and performed annually at Miss Porter’s School. “The feeling of completion when it was all over was amazing. Myself and all the actors had so much fun, and the audience being excited to see us made it feel really good,” Joon says.
Thus, Joon can now say he’s written and directed his own original play, something he is very grateful for. “There’s not many places where people can get this type of opportunity at this age. I’m very thankful for the AIP program and for Mrs. Couch.”
Gwen Couch, English teacher and director of theater at Avon, originally presented the idea of playwriting as an AIP to school administration and potentially interested students. She
wasn’t surprised that Joon was interested and shared his excitement in making it happen. “It’s been fun, really fun,” says Couch. “There are so many facets of theater we don’t really get to explore when doing a play, so this is great. It’s amazing with AIPs that students with a specific interest have more time to explore it. This was the right time for Joon to launch into a project like this, to be able to create and be given time to do so—it’s huge.”
The level of influence and support that Joon has received from Couch, who is also his advisor, is something he says he cannot express enough gratitude for. His mother shares this sentiment. “He has been changed a lot and found his spot at AOF after that first show in 2021,” Soyeon says.
“Mrs. Couch helped him find the right thing for him and always encourages his performances. I am really appreciative of her and the whole AOF community for helping Joon find his happiest moments. He told me he was happiest when on the stage.”
Joon has accomplished so much in the realm of theater despite having only been introduced to it when he first arrived at Avon. While theater is relatively new for Joon, the performing arts in general have been a part of his life since before he was born. His mother was a professional touring pianist. His older brother is a very talented cello player. Joon himself can play multiple instruments, but his primary interest has always been choir. “My interest in singing came from a very young age. That feeling has only grown as I’ve gotten older and as more passionate singers have made up the choirs I’m a part of.”
At Avon, Joon has been a member of the Riddlers and the Singed Beavers, Avon’s two most elite chorale groups. With the Riddlers, Joon traveled to Costa Rica during Intersession of 2023, where they performed in front of packed audiences at large venues as well as intimate crowds in more remote villages. For his senior year, Joon has been elected the president of the Singed Beavers, which means he will be largely responsible for choosing what songs are performed and running rehearsals. Last year, Joon auditioned for and was accepted into the Connecticut Music Educators Association (CMEA) regional choir, a very selective group comprised of the best young singers in this part of the state.
Outside of the arts, Joon has also
been heavily involved with Nimrod Club, the school’s oldest club which focuses on maintaining and preserving our natural campus. Interestingly, this club appeals to Joon for the same reasons he enjoys theater and choir. “You’re doing something fun with other people who have the same interest as you. It’s that same group aspect. That’s why I enjoy it.”
For his senior year, Joon still plans to partake in these same areas of interest while exploring them each
more in depth. After graduating, he hopes to be able to join a theater studies or general arts program in college to learn more about directing and producing.
To any current or incoming students who might be interested in theater but are unsure about acting, like Joon was at first, he offers the following advice: “Just go for it. Theater is all about confidence, and that confidence will help you in all other areas of life.”
Theater is all about confidence, and that confidence will help you in all other areas of life.
— JOON LEE ’25
athletics
The varsity football team’s first scrimmage saw the Winged Beavers facing off against The Hun School Raiders of Princeton, New Jersey. The game was good practice before beginning the regular Founders League season on Saturday, September 21, when the team took on Kent.
Teddy Lister ’25
Alocal student hailing from Farmington, Conn., Teddy Lister ’25 is a four-year varsity soccer player, a two-year captain, and will finish his tenure on Avon’s Student Council as vice warden of the school. Kind, dedicated, and unflappable, it’s no wonder he earned the moniker “Steady Teddy.”
Growing up in the Farmington Valley, Teddy says he always felt a connection to the local boarding schools. His father, a Kent alumnus, often took him to prep school matches, including some involving Avon Old Farms. These experiences planted the seeds for Teddy’s eventual decision to attend Avon Old Farms. “I wanted an environment that would push me and provide a stronger and tighter-knit community than what existed in public school,” he reflects.
As one of 36 freshmen in the fall of 2021, Teddy immediately set his sights on becoming an engaged member of the AOF community who could advocate for his classmates. “What motivated me was my love for the school and for the people. As a member of a small class, I wanted to ensure that we weren’t ignored or counted out. I loved my classmates, which made me want to ensure they were valued on campus. In running for Student Council that year, in particular, I wanted to be sure we had a voice.”
On Carriuolo Field, Teddy also had an immediate presence. “Teddy has started games for us since his freshman year, which
is quite an achievement at this level of soccer,” comments Varsity Head Coach and Assistant Director of Athletics Carl Stensland. “He is a good one-on-one defender, strong in the air, and reads the game well. He has a quiet demeanor, but he works tremendously hard and communicates when needed. He is always positive and optimistic, and he brings this mindset to practice every day. As a coach, he’s a player you don’t have to worry about. I know he’s going to bring it, whether it’s practice or a game.”
As someone who’s played the sport for as long as he’s attended school, it’s no wonder Teddy has what it takes to play in the Founders League. However, he takes nothing for granted and always puts in the work required to succeed. “At first, soccer was something fun I did with friends. Then I got pretty good at it, so I kept going. I did rec until maybe second grade, and then I played travel soccer and then club soccer until high school. Joining Avon’s varsity squad as a freshman, I did not expect to be starting. I knew I was good and that there were seniors on the team to help me. I kept going because I knew I could compete. I remember that during my freshman year, there was a playoff game at Taft. It seemed like our whole school was there, and I was in shock, but also in awe of how lucky I was to have an opportunity like this.” This early experience set the tone for a successful
I wanted an environment that would push me and provide a stronger and tighter-knit community than what existed in public school.
— TEDDY LISTER ’25
soccer career at Avon, including beating Berkshire for the first time since 2008, beating Loomis at an away game during his sophomore year, and clinching the Founders League title for the first time since 2000.
Teddy’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. From dealing with injuries to missing playoffs, he has learned to navigate setbacks with a positive attitude and resilience. “Sitting on the bench was hard, but knowing I could still help the team while not playing was something to learn,” he says. His ability to maintain high morale and belief in his team, even in difficult times, highlights his leadership and character.
“Teddy played every single minute of every game last season,” shares Coach Stensland. “This is a testament to his work ethic and preparation. He’s been tremendously
Our days are scheduled from when we wake up to when we go to bed, which instills in you one of the ’Majorisms’ on campus: do what you have to do before you do what you want to do.
— TEDDY LISTER ’25
consistent for us since he’s arrived on campus, and he does it all with very little fanfare.”
A huge part of the team’s success, Teddy says, is a result of the boarding school atmosphere he loves: when you practice with the same guys six days a week and share two-hour bus trips to away games, you build connections that you wouldn’t elsewhere. He also explains that at Avon there’s an emphasis on taking care of yourself off the field to ensure elite performance. That means eating right and staying hydrated, but Teddy also cites Avon’s rigorous schedule as a reason for his success.
“Our days are scheduled from when we wake up to when we go to bed, which instills in you one of the ’Majorisms’ on campus: do what you have to do before you do what you want to do. I had certain time barriers for certain things: I need to be at soccer practice until 4, but that’s not an excuse for not attending enrichment at 6:45 or having dinner. And vice versa. Homework can’t be a reason to skip soccer practice or not play well in a game. Instead, I sometimes bring textbooks on the bus and do some reading to ensure that I am being productive.” Teddy also shares that he would always communicate with his teachers, who all understand the demands placed on a varsity athlete. “If you reach out to them and show that you want to succeed and put the work in, then they’ll maybe be
flexible for a certain assignment and figure out a way to help you get things done.”
One thing that Teddy hopes will make his senior year both a little more exciting and a bit easier to handle is his transition to becoming a boarding student for the first time. As a day student, Teddy fully immersed himself in school life, often staying late for activities and forming strong bonds with his peers. This dedication to being present and
involved allowed Teddy to maximize his experience at Avon. His decision to become a boarder for his senior year reflects his desire to deepen these connections and not miss out on any aspect of school life. “I felt like I’d mastered being a day student. I knew what to do, what not to do, how to succeed, how to manage my time. Boarding was a step further in getting to know people. There are certain things, certain bonds, that can be created
only through living with someone in good times and bad times. I knew those would be important and special in building community. It’s also my last year of high school, and I want to be present for everything with some of the best buds I have.”
Another goal for his senior year is to relive one of his fondest soccer memories but to do so on home turf. “Since I was a freshman and saw that huge crowd at Taft, I’ve always wanted that same crowd for a playoff game but at home. It would be a dream to win another Founders Championship and to have a go at New England’s.”
Teddy credits several individuals for shaping his journey at Avon, including Mr. Raposo P’22, his tennis coach and chamber ensemble teacher; Mr. Cugell, his soccer and tennis coach and AP US Government teacher; and Mr. Mihalich, his advisor. These mentors played a significant role in his development, providing guidance and support throughout his high school years. “I’ve built strong relationships with each of these mentors, and I am so grateful for their time and investment in helping me grow as a person, an athlete, an artist, and an Avonian.”
Looking ahead, Teddy plans to explore a degree in business or law, with a flexible approach to playing soccer in college. His recent college visits have broadened his horizons and solidified his aspirations. “I think soccer will always play a role in my life, but whether I am a starter for a university or I’m just playing on a club team, I will be happy.”
As he looks ahead, we asked him what advice he’d give to new students who wish to make a positive impact as a varsity athlete. Teddy’s advice is simple yet profound: be patient and focus on the little things. “You’re not going to be a star player after two or three practices. Just get the little things down ... be patient, and your opportunity will come,” he advises.
There are certain things, certain bonds, that can be created only through living with someone in good times and bad times. I knew those would be important and special in building community.
— TEDDY LISTER ’25
Avon Old Farms School is proud to announce the induction of Major League Baseball outfielder George Springer ’08 into its prestigious Athletic Hall of Fame. A testament to dedication, perseverance, and excellence both on and off the field, George’s journey from a young athlete in Connecticut to a World Series MVP serves as an inspiration to current and future generations of Avon Old Farms athletes.
George came to Avon Old Farms as a high school sophomore. His time here was marked by his outstanding athletic ability and leadership qualities. He quickly became a standout player on the baseball team, showcasing a combination of speed, power, and defensive prowess that set him apart from his peers. In baseball, he was a key contributor to two league
Avon Old Farms School inducts GEORGE C. SPRINGER III ’08 INTO ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME
championships, was Avon’s team captain and MVP, and was a Division 1 Scholarship recipient. His dedication to the sport, coupled with his active involvement in the Avon Old Farms community, made him a respected and cherished member of the student body.
After graduating from Avon Old Farms, George took his talents to the University of Connecticut, despite being a major league draft pick in 2008. Playing for the UConn Huskies, he earned numerous accolades, including earning conference Rookie of the Year and All-American status as a freshman. He helped lead the Huskies to their first Super Regional appearance in school history, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players in the program’s history. His exceptional performance at the collegiate level caught the
attention of MLB scouts, and in 2011, he was selected by the Houston Astros as the 11th overall pick in the MLB draft.
George began his professional career with the Houston Astros, where he quickly established himself as one of the premier outfielders in Major League Baseball. Known for his dynamic playing style, he became a central figure in the Astros’s lineup, contributing significantly to the team’s success. His power at the plate, combined with his speed and defensive skills, made him a fan favorite and one of the most respected players in the game.
One of the highlights of George’s career happened in 2017, when he played a crucial role in leading the Astros to their first World Series championship. His remarkable performance earned him the World
EZRA SHAW
Series MVP award, as he set a record for the most home runs in a single World Series. This achievement solidified his status as one of baseball’s elite players and brought immense pride to his alma mater, Avon Old Farms.
In addition to his achievements on the field, George is well known as a powerful ambassador of the game and a transformative supporter of his community, most notably as the national spokesperson for S.A.Y. (The Stuttering Association for the Young). He is currently a star with the Toronto Blue Jays, where he continues to be recognized as one of the best all-around people and players in the game.
George Springer’s induction into the Avon Old Farms Athletic Hall of Fame is a celebration of his remarkable achievements and the impact he has had on baseball. His journey from a young athlete in Connecticut to a World Series champion serves as a beacon of inspiration for current and future students at Avon Old Farms. His dedication to excellence, both on and off the field, embodies the values and spirit of Avon Old Farms School.
“I am excited to celebrate George Springer’s induction into Avon’s Athletic Hall of Fame this October. He is obviously very deserving of the honor because of his unique athletic achievements at Avon Old Farms, at UConn, and over the last 10 years as a star in Major League Baseball,” comments Provost and Varsity Baseball Head Coach Rob Dowling ’91, P’22. “I am also thrilled to recognize George as a person. At Avon, we sincerely believe in the educational
value of athletics and insist that sports are an extension of the learning environment we focus on at school. George’s story is a great representation of what happens when committed and talented people aspire and persevere. While George makes it look easy and plays the game with a joyful style, the reality is that he has worked incredibly hard to overcome the many challenges that he has faced on his journey. He has done that with class, composure, and consideration of others. He has earned elite success at every level as an individual, but has a special ability to uplift those around him as well.
He was fun to work with as a teenager, as he not only made our team special athletically but raised the enjoyment around the group because of the power of his personality. It has been awesome to see him excel as an athlete, and now a father and friend.”
As we honor George, we also celebrate the rich tradition of athletic excellence at Avon Old Farms. His story is a reminder that with hard work, determination, and the support of a strong community, anything is possible. Congratulations to George on this well-deserved recognition and for making the Avon Old Farms community proud.
FEATURED AVONIAN
Sam Houston ’25
The Warden is a coveted and admired position at Avon Old Farms School. It’s essentially a more dignified version of a student body president. The Warden must simultaneously represent, lead, and nurture his peers. It’s a tough, but rewarding, position. Sam Houston ’25, who was elected Warden for the 2024–25 school year, credits former Wardens for inspiring him to pursue the position himself.
In fact, Sam says he never really had an interest in leadership until his first days at Avon. “I remember sitting and watching Francis Hagood ’23, who was that year’s Warden, give a speech to all the new students and families. I just remember thinking, ’Wow. This is the type of guy I want to be.’”
That year, Sam joined the Student Council as a sophomore representative. In this role, he was able to interact with more students
and identify how he might be able to enhance their experience. His junior year, he was once again elected to the Student Council and had the opportunity to closely shadow last year’s Warden, Hudson Miller ’24, a teammate of his on the varsity hockey team.
Sam says there was a little feeling of surprise when he found out he would be the next Warden, but that quickly turned into gratitude. “I was grateful to the school and faculty for believing in me,” Sam shares.
For many of our alumni, Mrs. Riddle’s village was a transformative place. The excitable, yet socially timid, boys that first arrive on campus are greatly changed by the time they walk through Alumni Gate as confident and self-assured young men. Past and present Avonians have been provided with an exemplary education, an understanding of the importance of character and moral aptitude, and the self-confidence to navigate the world at large.
While this transition may take a full four or even five years for some boys, others seem to already have the qualities of a “Man of Avon” when they first arrive at Avon Old Farms School. The latter is definitely the case for Sam, who made the decision himself to search for a new high
My family and I take pride in academics, and Avon offered the perfect balance. Every school I looked at was great at something, but I felt Avon was great at everything.
— SAM HOUSTON ’25
school after feeling he needed more mature classmates and a more structured environment that would make it easier to balance academics, athletics, and other interests.
Sam is from the Los Angeles area, almost the exact opposite of the tranquil, hidden New England village of Old Farms. After beginning high school, he realized how difficult it was to achieve academically, improve athletically, and interact socially in such a large metropolis. “Everything was just too spread out. Between hockey, school, and friends, I realized I was wasting five hours driving everywhere and then starting homework sometimes after 9 p.m.”
When Sam set out to find his new school, he knew he wanted a boarding school so that his friends, teachers, and coaches would all be in one place. Avon checked that box, along with every other box he was searching for. “My family and I take pride in academics, and Avon offered the perfect balance,” Sam says. “Every school I looked at was great at something, but I felt Avon was great at everything.”
He says he knew he made the right choice as soon as he stepped foot on campus, but living away from home for the first time—on the complete opposite side of the
country at that—was understandably a bit of a challenge at first. “Learning how to be independent and advocate for myself was hard, but it helped develop me. I think Avon does a great job with that: turning young boys into great men.”
Since then, the school has been everything he hoped it would be. He says the structured schedule, classroom dress, and other various rules and responsibilities have helped him develop into the man he wants to be. “In these critical parts of my growth as a teenager, having everything I need to develop into a better person is so great. I know I’ll be totally prepared for college.” He adds that the rules and structure of the school create a sense of maturity among the students that you would not get at other schools.
While it’s clear Sam chose Avon for several reasons, ending up at a school with a world-renowned hockey team wasn’t a coincidence. That being said, Sam wasn’t recruited and therefore didn’t know if he’d even make the team when he enrolled. Varsity Hockey Coach John Gardner initially told him it was likely he wouldn’t make the team his first year. “I just told him I’m going to work my ass off,” Sam says.
Sam’s hard work paid off. His first
year at Avon, he earned a spot on the varsity team. “I felt like I proved myself. A little bit was finding it within myself, but I had a lot of help. The combination of believing in myself and others believing in me really helped. Avon is a place that does that so well,” he says. While he did make the team, he wasn’t immediately a starter and had to learn to adapt to a more supportive role. “Putting my pride aside was tough. When you’re not playing, it’s easy to be spiteful, but I had to put team success over my individual issues. It ended up paying off because we won New England’s that year.”
“Sam was a relative unknown as a hockey player coming to Avon from California,” shares Gardner. “He made the team with his work ethic
and impressed the coaches with his hard play, physical toughness, and ability to compete at a high level. I think the students chose him to be Warden because they respect him for his honesty and ability to communicate clearly.”
Being a member of the varsity hockey team has given Sam multiple league, tournament, and regional championships, along with plenty of memories playing in front of the Avon Army, but it’s also given him something more. “It’s just the people. I met guys I know will be at my wedding, and it happened so quickly here. I’ll forever be grateful for that.”
For his senior year, Sam hopes to find continued success on the ice. He also has lofty plans as Warden, saying that the Council this year has laid out
several “ambitious goals.” One interesting initiative that we haven’t seen in the past is a plan to connect with alumni and perhaps get involved with raising money for the school. Sam and his fellow Council members view this as an opportunity to take more of an active role in meeting the needs of students. This also meant Sam met with Head of School Jim Detora P’12 multiple times over the summer to discuss the upcoming school year. “Sam and I met over the summer a couple of times to discuss the upcoming year,” Detora shares. “We discussed the importance of setting the tone for the student body early in the school year, of leading by example, and being a presence on campus. We discussed how the Student Council can best support the student body and implement various ideas that come out of their meetings.”
Detora also expressed his confidence in Sam’s ability to help make this a successful and memorable school year. “Sam is a well-respected member of our community. He has strong communication skills and truly understands the importance of the Brotherhood. Sam and I have developed a strong working relationship, and I know we will work together to make the 24–25 school year a great one.”
Sam is a well-respected member of our community. He has strong communication skills and truly understands the importance of the Brotherhood.
— JIM DETORA P’12, HEAD OF SCHOOL
Women Avon
BY JACQUELINE KELLER o P
One of the most common things I hear—and one of my favorites—is that while Avon Old Farms School has changed in so many ways over its near 100-year history, at its heart, Avon really hasn’t changed at all. Since joining the Old Farms community in August of 2016, I have interviewed hundreds of alumni and friends of the school who all share that same sentiment. Yes, there are new buildings, new people, new titles, and new students. Original spaces have been modified to accommodate modern needs. Technology has evolved our offices, classrooms, and dormitories. Gone are the pay phones, and here are the smart watches. Yet, despite all of these changes, a walk through the Pope Quadrangle feels unchanged for so many. Often, alumni from all decades stroll around campus and take in the original buildings—noting the unique slope of our roofs, the odd placement of tiny windows, the humbling experience of trying to open an original door—and are reminded of the woman who started it all: Theodate Pope Riddle.
The original Woman of Avon, Theodate was a pioneering American architect and philanthropist whose visionary ideals and deep commitment to education and character development led her to establish Avon Old Farms School. Born Effie Brooks Pope in 1867 in Cleveland,
Ohio, she later adopted the name Theodate, which she felt better suited her unconventional and independent spirit. Theodate was the daughter of Alfred Atmore Pope, a wealthy industrialist and art collector, and Ada Brooks Pope. Growing up in an environment rich in cultural and intellectual stimulation, Theodate was encouraged to pursue her interests and education. Despite the limited opportunities available to women in architecture during her time, Theodate was determined to make her mark in the field. She studied architecture through private tutelage and hands-on experience, rather than attending formal architecture school, as most institutions did not accept female students at the time. Her perseverance and
talent led her to become one of the first female architects licensed in both New York and Connecticut.
Theodate’s vision for Avon Old Farms School was rooted in her belief in the transformative power of education. She was inspired to create a school that would provide a holistic education, emphasizing not only academic excellence but also character, leadership, and physical development. It is often cited that she wrote in her journals that she would one day create “an indestructible school for boys” and ultimately began creating plans for the school in 1918 as a lasting tribute to her late father. She believed in educating the whole person, and preparing young men to become responsible and well-rounded citizens. Theodate was influenced by the educational philosophies of progressive educators who advocated for experiential learning and the development of critical thinking skills. She envisioned Avon as a place where students would engage in a rigorous academic curriculum while also participating in physical activities, artistic pursuits, and community service.
Central to Theodate’s vision was the development of character and leadership. She believed that education should instill values such as integrity, responsibility, and respect. The school’s motto, aspirando et perseverando, reflects her belief in striving for excellence and resilience.
During what we now call the “Founder’s Era,” much had been written about Theodate’s “meddling” on the day-to-day running of the school. However, those who look back on that time often view it with an appreciation for Theodate’s involvement and insistence on running the school as she originally intended.
As written by School Historian Art Custer P’04, ’05, ’10, “To be sure, Theodate was an eccentric, but she lived in a time when being a strongwilled woman with her own career and her own opinions was enough to make her ’eccentric.’ It is equally certain that she had clear and strong ideas about how the school should function and wanted to see those ideas implemented, but what would society have made of a strong-willed, eccentric man who conceived of a school, designed its buildings, oversaw and financed its construction, financed its operation, and then had the audacity to want a hand in
Women are an integral part of our school community, contributing in countless vital ways that influence every facet of our campus.
JIM DETORA P’12, HEAD OF SCHOOL
establishing the policy and direction of the school?”
Theodate’s vision and determination laid the foundation for Avon Old Farms, creating a legacy that continues to inspire. Today, we are lucky enough to have made the jump from one woman in a leadership role at Avon to many. “Women are an integral part of our school community, contributing in countless vital ways that influence every facet of our campus,” says Head of School Jim Detora P’12. “From
teaching and coaching to supporting departments, engaging our alumni, and ensuring our financial stability, the women at Avon fully embrace our mission and their roles with passion and dedication. Each day, they bring a valuable perspective that enriches our community, which is essential as we guide our boys to become men of strong moral character with conviction.
“Whether in leadership positions or behind the scenes, working directly with our boys or in support roles, every woman at Avon plays a key role in strengthening our community. I am deeply grateful for their contributions. Now, more than ever, the work we do for our boys is critical, and the women on our campus help us achieve that mission with excellence. These women, much like Theodate, are helping to shape the future of Avon Old Farms, with the same strength, conviction, and innovative thinking that defined its inception.”
Today’s Women o P Avon
Today, having women in leadership positions is crucial for a well-rounded educational environment, even in traditionally all-boys high schools. The inclusion of women in leadership roles brings about a multitude of benefits that contribute to the holistic development of students and the overall success of the educational institution. As we close in on 100 years of life at Avon Old Farms, I wanted to explore what that looks like on our campus. There are many women leaders on campus; highlighting them all is not possible here. For this article, we have chosen a few who hold leadership roles across various areas of the school. Of course, I had to start by asking: why Avon?
What inspired you to pursue a leadership role in an all-boys school?
JACKIE MORR P’19, ’22,
Chief Financial Officer
I always envisioned myself in a school setting and completed my teaching certification in the early 2000s. My career path took me on a road with nonprofits, so teaching was put on hold. As our older son, Nolan, was beginning middle school we began exploring private schools in the area. Avon was at the top of our list. I recall the Head of School at the time, Ken LaRocque H’19, P’01, ’10, speaking at an open house event and talking about the benefits of single-sex education. His talk was impactful and really resonated with my husband and me. Shortly after that open house event, I received a call from a friend about the opportunity to work at AOF, and I jumped at the chance.
SUSAN KOHN P’26, Director of External Relations and Chief of Staff to the Head of School
With three generations of Avonians in our family, I’ve been fortunate to hear countless stories of transformative experiences from the Pierpont, Trautman, and LaRocque eras. Since joining Avon’s team, I’ve had the privilege of watching many young men, including my son and his peers, be inspired to think outside the box, explore new interests, forge lifelong friendships within the Brotherhood, and mature into men of integrity under Jim Detora’s leadership. I’ve witnessed firsthand the profound impact this campus can have on a young man’s life, and it’s that very magic that inspired me to pursue a leadership role here.
Collaborating closely with Jim to ensure his vision and our outward image cohesively reflect the outstanding work of Avon’s faculty and staff is incredibly rewarding. It is exciting to see Avon consistently moving in an innovative direction, and I am thankful to be part of the leadership team shaping the future of Avon Old Farms.
diversity o P perspectives
Of course, having women in leadership positions brings diverse perspectives and experiences to the decision-making process. This diversity enhances the overall quality of discussions and decisions, leading to more comprehensive and well-rounded outcomes. Exposure to a variety of viewpoints prepares students for the diverse and dynamic world they will encounter beyond Avon.
How do you believe your presence and leadership impact the personal and academic development of the students at Avon?
LARA DOYLE P’12,
Hawk’s Nest Director
’14,
Throughout my years at Avon, women have always been integral to the Avon experience, providing a unique perspective in an all-boys environment. For instance, my son developed a very strong connection with his French teacher, Michelle Custer P’04, ’05, ’10.
Over the years, our school has evolved, and women have begun to fill a wider variety of roles, which has enriched our community. My own experience has evolved as well.
I’ve been a part of the Avon community since the early 90s, raising a family here and taking on new roles, like becoming a certified yoga instructor. This has allowed me to interact with students in new ways, whether casually in the Hawk’s Nest or through yoga and sports conditioning. These opportunities to engage with the boys on different levels have deepened my relationships with them and allowed me to step into more of the mentor role at Avon than ever before. While some aspects of campus life have changed with the times—like the faster pace and busier schedules—I believe our community has grown stronger through its diversity.
JILL HARRINGTON, Academic Dean & Registrar
My role is centered on helping students grow. I believe that meaningful development only happens when students feel comfortable and challenged. When students come to see me, I make it a point to ask how they’re doing, ensuring they feel seen and valued, and then I help guide them to tackle the difficult tasks ahead of them.
Part of the way I connect with students is through sharing my own experiences. For example, I openly talk about my father’s journey with schizophrenia, which I share with the seniors in Prep4Ward each year. This vulnerability shows students that personal struggles can be openly discussed and that growth often comes from the challenges we face.
Additionally, I brought a Paralympian to campus this fall to share her story. I was her first volleyball coach after she lost her leg in a car accident, and I continued to support her journey. She has since played for the US National Sitting Volleyball team, and this summer I traveled to Paris to watch her play in the Paralympics. By fostering a culture of trust, resilience, and open communication, I aim to impact the personal and academic development of each student I interact with.
Role Modeling
Having women in leadership positions also provides positive role models. It sends a powerful message that leadership is not confined to any specific position, breaking down stereotypes and encouraging students to pursue their aspirations regardless of societal expectations. Diverse leadership inspires our boys to appreciate and respect the abilities of all, fostering a more equitable and inclusive atmosphere.
Can you share specific initiatives or programs you’ve implemented or supported within the school community?
BETH LARSON, Director of Engineering, Varsity Track and Field Coach
I was drawn to the opening at Avon Old Farms School because it would not only allow me to teach engineering courses— not only, for example, math, like at some other schools I was interviewing with —but also would allow me to coach track. I thought the combination made for my dream job. In speaking with Jim Detora at the time, it was apparent that I would be able to build this program from the ground up. It began with a few courses and reimagining the Forge as a space for engineering. In my nine years with Avon, I have developed an Engineering and Computer Science department with eight courses. Our classes create a fully developed, four-year curriculum, allowing Avonians to begin their exploration of engineering as freshmen and complete post-AP courses as seniors.
When I think about Theodate, it’s hard to imagine how, in her time, women weren’t doing what she did. To be the first woman in her field took immense courage, especially in the face of negative feedback. She was a trailblazer, and it’s easy to forget how difficult it was back then. She endured so much, and, because of her, I am now able to have my dream job and create a whole new department— and all I’ve ever received is support.
ALEXANDRA CASINGHINO, Director of Baxter Library
At Avon Old Farms, my goal is to foster a love for learning, curiosity, and responsibility. I aim to get to know each student who walks through our doors and pair him with the perfect book (yes, even for the most reluctant readers, there’s always one!). I envision the library becoming a “Room of Requirement,” like in Harry Potter, where we meet the unique needs of every student. I also strive to help students become critical thinkers who value diverse perspectives by working closely with them on an individual basis. Reading opens us up to new stories, people, cultures, experiences, time periods, and viewpoints—it helps us discover our place in the world. I especially enjoy sitting down with students to transform an initial idea into well-developed research, guiding them to ask key questions and explore diverse sources. Over the years, my students have introduced me to fascinating topics, and I hope to inspire in them the same curiosity, excitement, and joy of learning new things.
addressing t f e whole person
Women leaders often bring a unique focus on holistic development and emotional intelligence. This can be particularly beneficial in an educational setting, where addressing not only academic but also social and emotional needs is crucial. In creating a school culture which supports the whole person, women help nurture various aspects of a young boy’s life, from intellectual and emotional maturity to character and interpersonal skills. In an all-boys environment, the presence of women in leadership roles creates a more diverse school culture, fostering a sense of cooperation and empathy. This diversity in leadership prepares students for success beyond the classroom.
Can you share specific initiatives or programs you’ve implemented or supported within the school community?
HEATHER CALLAGHAN P’25, Director of Health and Wellness, Director of Nursing
I have significantly grown and expanded the health and wellness curriculum over my years with Avon. When I first started here, and for many years, health and wellness education was limited to six Sunday evenings and only for sophomores. That was the extent of formal programming. We also just had one psychologist who would come to school once a week to see a couple of students. Now our health and wellness curriculum is 10-12 classes per year, developmentally appropriate for each grade level. Our health center team and counseling center team have both grown significantly in the past few years. And the number of students utilizing these services has also increased significantly, which is great. This means that our students are not only more interested in but also prioritize and feel comfortable getting help for both their physical and mental health. And now we are going to be getting a brand new health and wellness center, almost doubling our space and adding a classroom!
CRISTINA PINTON, Visual Arts Chairperson
The biggest initiative that I call mine is the Advanced Independent Project program. I love it intensely. It provides boys with the opportunity to leave the safe zone of our school and venture into the real world to get practical experience in the area they may be seeking to study in college and/or pursue as a career. It also gives boys who may otherwise shine a little less in other areas of academic life at AOF the time to really find the spotlight. I’ve seen boys come alive through an AIP experience that makes their hearts fill with enthusiasm and happiness.
In the art studio and in the AIP program, I do my best to be both a “tough love” kind of teacher for those who need a push and a challenge, and also to take on that “mother-like” persona to help teens get through some of those tough moments in life.
preparation for the real world
The professional world is increasingly diverse, and students benefit from exposure to leadership that reflects this reality. Having women in leadership positions prepares students for the workplace, where collaboration across genders is essential. It helps them develop skills in communication, teamwork, and adaptability that will serve them well in their future careers.
How do you think having women in leadership positions has influenced the culture and educational environment at Avon Old Farms?
KATE BARZUN, Dean of College Counseling
We all have women in our lives. It wouldn’t be a truly realistic experience if the boys didn’t have women mentors/influencers/ advisors during these formative years. Similarly, Avon as an institution wouldn’t be able to execute its mission viably without real-world representation from a diverse population, including women.
In today’s society, there is a lot of unpleasant messaging around what it means to be a boy and man, what masculinity is and isn’t, and what a young man’s place is in the world. I believe our boys deserve to see women in their lives who believe in them, in their goodness, and celebrate what makes boys boys while also encouraging them to explore all sides of themselves in and out of the classroom.
How do you believe your presence and leadership impact the personal and academic development of the students at Avon?
JACQUELINE KELLER, Director of Marketing and Communications
Upon joining the Avon community, I was encouraged to get involved as much as possible. I eat lunch with the boys, tag along on field trips, and lead our photography club. Whether I’m having a conversation with a student or helping him with a project, I usually get the opportunity to talk a bit about my role at Avon, which sometimes strikes an interest. For those looking to explore digital media or marketing, I offer internships with my team. These opportunities are not just about adding creative pieces to their portfolio; they offer a chance to step behind the curtain and see how a variety of creative and technical skills can be applied in a professional setting.
My presence at Avon contributes to the student experience by broadening their understanding of what a career in a creative field can look like and helping them to see that their creative ambitions can translate into meaningful careers. By providing mentorship and real-world experience, I hope to empower students to explore their own potential and to feel confident in following their chosen paths, whatever they may be.
Theodate Pope Riddle’s legacy extends far beyond the beautiful campus and the buildings she designed. Her commitment to fostering an environment that nurtures young men in all aspects of their development has left an indelible mark on Avon Old Farms School and is a natural starting point to so many campus initiatives. Her innovative approach to education and her dedication to creating a supportive and inspiring community continue to influence the school’s mission and values today—and will continue to for years to come.
What are your aspirations for the future of Avon?
JEN HILL P’20, ’26, Director of Human Resources
We have new banners on the Head’s Office that message “an inclusive community and creative excellence.” A focus on creative excellence is something I think provides our community and our culture a real challenge and opportunity for growth. We teach our boys to be lifelong learners and to have intellectual curiosity. I aspire to see a work culture here where we showcase this type of growth and innovative mindset. Demonstrating and challenging ourselves to get better, make improvements, and strive to offer best in class across all school departments would secure AOF’s future and provide exciting opportunities for our employees.
SARAH BLANCHARD P’24, Director of Development
As both a former parent and director of development, my primary mission is to ensure the long-term financial stability of this institution so future generations of young men can continue to benefit from our core values. At the heart of Avon’s enduring success is the power of connection and relationships. Our alumni network forms a brotherhood—a lifelong community where leadership, knowledge, and support are passed down from one generation to the next.
While we are a community deeply rooted in tradition, we must also embrace evolution. Our alumni network should not only celebrate the past but also lead the way for innovative ideas and solutions that will shape Avon’s future. By expanding and deepening the bonds within this network, we are laying the groundwork for future Avonians, providing them with inspiration, guidance, and lifelong support.
As Avon Old Farms School approaches its 100th year, it remains a testament to Theodate Pope Riddle’s vision and passion for education. Her pioneering spirit and dedication to excellence have ensured that the school she founded continues to thrive, preparing future generations of students for the challenges and opportunities of the modern world
Araceli “Ari” Bartkiewicz P’16, ’18
When an American veteran and graduate school student asked Araceli Bartkiewicz to meet him for an afternoon drink in her native Madrid, Spain, she could have never guessed that it would lead to her teaching in a tiny, Cotswold-inspired village in the forested hills of Connecticut, US. She wasn’t a teacher at the time. In fact, she wasn’t quite fluent in American English. And yet, she has now been teaching for over a decade and is an integral part of the Avon Old Farms School community.
Araceli, or Ari, was born and raised in Madrid. She graduated from high school in Madrid before attending college in the same city to study statistics and economics, never having to live anywhere other than her family home, with many of the necessities of life within walking distance.
The American student, Drew, returned to Spain the very next month to see Ari again. After corresponding via letter for months—this was before everyone had a cell phone in their pocket—Drew soon became her husband, and after a few brief periods living in different European countries, the two decided to migrate to New England. Ari says it was very challenging overcoming the culture shock of immigrating to a different country, with new traditions, customs, and language. “At first it was very difficult. There was definitely a culture shock. Living here is just so different.” For one, Ari had to get used to having to drive everywhere.
Her new neighbors in Canton weren’t quite as approachable as her old ones in Madrid. It also didn’t help that while she understood English, she was more familiar with the British version and certainly wasn’t ready for full conversations riddled with unfamiliar slang terms and regionalized accents. Homesickness, loneliness, and a little bit of fear were all lingering during her first few years in the US.
That loneliness wouldn’t last long, however, as Drew and Ari’s family soon began to grow. Their first son Blake ’16 was followed by Dane ’18, with daughter Ana completing the trio a few years later. The children attended public schools until Blake reached high school. After his sophomore year at a public school, Blake realized he wanted a more challenging environment with a larger mentorship aspect from faculty and administration. The family began to look at local private and prep
schools and found that Avon Old Farms checked all the boxes. “He got everything he wanted and more,” Ari says. “So then Dane enrolled after that.”
Both boys were monitors, members of the Dean’s List, and important components of the varsity soccer and basketball teams. Their sporting events have provided Ari with her favorite memories at Avon Old Farms. “The fall season at Avon is my favorite. The weather, the scenery, but mostly I enjoy taking that walk down to the fields to watch soccer games. Then same with basketball in the winter. It reminds me of watching my boys play.”
Blake eventually matriculated to Northeastern University, while Dane went on to attend the University of Miami. But it was during their time as students at Avon that the next big transition in Ari’s life began. Longtime Spanish teacher Kathryn Leis announced she would be retiring and the school was looking for a replace-
I love to show off my country, and I know the boys really enjoyed it. Most of them had never been to Spain before. Some of them had never even been outside of the US. It was an unforgettable trip for them.
— ARI BARTKIEWICZ
ment. Ari was being strongly considered thanks to recommendations from Leis and other faculty who knew Ari through her sons. “Kathy knew me as a parent. She wanted to retire knowing she had a good replacement,” Ari says. “At first I said no because I had never taught before, and I didn’t think my sons would want me in their space.”
But after a discussion with her family and assurances that the position would begin as part time, she agreed. “With a part-time position, I was free to learn the best ways of teaching as I went, and the school could see if I was a good fit before hiring me full time. It’s been 10 years, so I guess it was a good fit.”
In the last decade, Ari has taught all levels of Spanish, including Advanced Placement. She has coached several sports, including tennis and basketball. She is a dedicated advisor and is responsible for organizing “duty crews” throughout the school year.
Ari says the transition from parent to teacher ended up being easier than expected. “I was comfortable because I already knew a lot of my colleagues through them teaching my sons. You are given a lot of freedom teaching here, too, which made things easier.”
Although she has enjoyed her new profession and her sons reveled in all Avon has to offer, there is always a
longing for home in her heart. This is something she shared with the entire Avon school community in an address during a Compass meeting, a weekly program designed to expose students to the complexities of life and how to navigate them. During that address, she confessed that for the entire time she’s lived in the US—which at this point is longer than the 26 years she lived in Spain—she has constantly had to remind herself to live life in an American way, while desperately trying to cling to her native culture.
During that address she said, “Ever since I have been living in the US, I feel like I can’t help but be reminded of how to live life in a different way, each day. There is a battle in my head that tells me not to forget about my culture, my traditions, the people, the food, the clothes—yes, I try to buy clothes when I go to Spain because when I wear them here it makes me feel like I am at home. I see myself walking the streets of Madrid and my neighborhood and that gives me comfort.”
She is the only member of her family that immigrated to the US, so she visits Spain for at least a month every year. Additionally, and to the benefit of Avon’s students and community, Ari has found plenty of ways to bring her culture here.
One way in which Ari does this is through the Intersession program, the week-long session where students learn about subjects outside the standard curriculum. Ari and some of her other Spanish-speaking colleagues offer a course that teaches about different Spanish-speaking countries through their cuisine. During this course, students spend a
day learning a bit about a country before selecting a traditional dish to try. The students then shop for ingredients, cook the food, and enjoy their feast. The course also includes a field trip to New York City restaurants that serve traditional Spanish foods. Every year, this course is one of the most sought by students.
Last year, Ari took on a much larger endeavor to expose students to her culture when she organized and led a trip to Spain during March break. Normally, the World Language or History Departments at Avon will offer a field trip over March break for students to Italy, Greece, or another country with a long, rich history. With no trip scheduled for the 2024 break, Ari was asked if she wanted to lead a trip to Spain. She agreed because she had a particularly strong group of AP Spanish students last year and knew they would get a lot out of the trip.
She planned the itinerary—three days in Madrid and four days in Barcelona—plenty of time for students to visit all the historic and educational sites, as well as spots only a native such as Ari might know about. “I love to show off my country, and I know the boys really enjoyed it. Most of them had never been to Spain before. Some of them had never even been outside of the US. It was an unforgettable trip for them.” She says it’s definitely something she would do again in a few years’ time. It’s true. Ari could have never guessed 30 years ago that she’d be where she is today, nor could she have guessed how happy she’d be to be here. “The years have gone by very fast, but I am very happy to be here,” Ari says. “It’s an incredibly rewarding type of job. To share what I know with the boys, to watch them learn, is amazing.”
Tuition and fees cover approximately 70 percent of the cost of an Avon Old Farms education. The balance is funded by two key revenue sources: the endowment for permanent, long-term support and the Fund for Avon for immediate support.
Because revenue from tuition and fees is simply not enough to cover what is needed, Avon relies on annual giving. The Fund for Avon provides critical, directly spendable support and is integral to the functioning of our community. Unrestricted, current-use gifts through the Fund for Avon underwrite approximately 12 percent of Avon’s operating budget each year. Beyond day-to-day operating costs, such as salaries, electric bills, and the like, Avon’s budget also funds critical resources for our community, including financial aid and support for academic programs.
Gifts made to the Fund for Avon send a powerful message that donors believe in AOF’s mission, its educational programs, and its teachers, coaches, and mentors. Every gift, large and small, makes a meaningful difference in the lives of Avon students and faculty. of Annual Fund donors made a gift of $500 or less. 74% was the median gift size for the Fund for Avon. $150 was raised to the Fund for Avon. $3m+
*Fiscal year runs from July 1 through June 30.
JOIN US BY MAKING A GIFT TO THE FUND FOR AVON TODAY! IN THE 2023–24 FISCAL YEAR*:
class notes
KEVIN SISTI ’08, DAMIAN FOX ’91, P’23, AND LUCA FOX ’23
50s
’50 HARVEY S. RUBIN
Head Class Ambassador harvo2516@verizon.net
’51 WARREN T. FORD SR.
Head Class Ambassador jodir@aol.com
’52 SETH F. MENDELL
Head Class Ambassador sethalicemendell@gmail.com
’54 DOUGLAS H. MACPHERSON
Head Class Ambassador dhmacpherson@verizon.net
’55 EDWARD J. HAWIE
Co-Head Class Ambassador ehawie@bellsouth.net
’55 CLEON M. SHUTT JR. Co-Head Class Ambassador chipsamerica@hotmail.com
’56 CHARLES R. SCAGLIONE Head Class Ambassador scag3328@gmail.com
’59 CHARLES W. DAVIS Co-Head Class Ambassador cwdavis@waretec.com
’59 ROLF H. OLSON Co-Head Class Ambassador rholson9@aol.com
RIGHT: Reanna, Lyndsay, Donald, and Stacey Rosenfeld visited campus over the summer. While visiting, DONALD ’55 took a picture with the class gift donated by the Class of 1955.
ENJOYING A SUMMER DAY.
CHASE DONALDSON ’68, HENRY COONS ’71, P’07, AND CHIEF ADVANCEMENT OFFICER CHRIS WEBB MET UP AT BRIDGTON HIGHLANDS COUNTRY CLUB IN BRIDGTON, MAINE, TO CATCH UP OVER A ROUND OF GOLF ON AN AMAZING
60s
’60 RICHARD L. WILLIAMS Head Class Ambassador rclumberclan@aol.com
’61 GEORGE F. HENSCHEL JR. Head Class Ambassador gfhjr@aol.com
’62 ALAN D. ROZINSKY Head Class Ambassador alroz@lycos.com
’63 JACK R. STOKVIS Head Class Ambassador smarts@galaxy.net
’64 JON MITNICK Co-Head Class Ambassador johnmit3@cox.net
’64 JON SALONY Co-Head Class Ambassador jrsalony@gmail.com
’65 PERRY BENSON JR. Head Class Ambassador pbenson@jacobswyper.com
’66 MICHAEL D. BARKER Head Class Ambassador barkermike@aol.com
’67 JAMES W. CORRIGAN Co-Head Class Ambassador cecorrigan86@gmail.com
’67 WILLIAM F. ROBERTS JR. Co-Head Class Ambassador wfroberts@fast.net
’68 CHASE DONALDSON Head Class Ambassador cfdifly@gmail.com
’69 DAVID F. COLEMAN Head Class Ambassador davidcoleman1150@gmail.com
70s
’70 HARRIS H. BUCKLIN III
Head Class Ambassador hbucklin3@gmail.com
’71 TIMOTHY B. BEEBLE
Co-Head Class Ambassador tbeeble@aol.com
’71 HENRY R. COONS
Co-Head Class Ambassador henrycoons29@yahoo.com
’72 KEVIN J. DRISCOLL
Head Class Ambassador driscollk@avonoldfarms.com
’73 CHRISTOPHER L. ATKINS
Head Class Ambassador catkins702@gmail.com
’74 GEORGE J. GIANNONI
Co-Head Class Ambassador ggiannoni@cox.net
’74 EDWARD P. MOLLOY
Co-Head Class Ambassador tmolloy@arraysoftware.com
’75 THOMAS B. BYRNE III
Co-Head Class Ambassador tbyrne@thomasbyrne.com
’75 GORDON F. LINKE Co-Head Class Ambassador gflinke@gmail.com
’76 ALEXANDER N. WORLEY Head Class Ambassador alexworley@sbcglobal.net
’77 JORGE E. CONSUEGRA JR Head Class Ambassador jconsuegra29@gmail.com
’78 JOHN M. GARVEY Head Class Ambassador jmgarvey@garvspace.com
’79 ANTHONY M. GRAY Co-Head Class Ambassador tgray@tonygray.net
’79 SCOTT B. LINKE Co-Head Class Ambassador scottblinke@comcast.net
DAY.
PERRY BENSON ’65 VISITED SETH MENDELL ’52 AND ALICE MENDELL.
ABOVE: EDDY SALAZAR ’87, EDDY CONSUEGRA ’11, JORGE CONSUEGRA ’77, P’11, and ANDY CONSUEGRA ’80, P’14 attended a wedding in Mallorca, Spain, in May 2024.
80s
’80 THOMAS E. DAVEY JR. Head Class Ambassador thomasdaveyjr@gmail.com
’81 SAMUEL C. BOOKBINDER IV
Head Class Ambassador samuel.bookbinder@wfadvisors.com
’82 BRIAN B. CONROY
Co-Head Class Ambassador brianconroy1@mac.com
’82 GREGORY T. FISH
Co-Head Class Ambassador greg@gregorytfishllc.com
’83 WILLIAM E. ESCHERT
Co-Head Class Ambassador billeschert@gmail.com
’83 RICHARD C. GREGORY Co-Head Class Ambassador rick@rcgregory.com
’84 JOHN S. GORDON Head Class Ambassador falconatlfan@gmail.com
’85 SAM L. RUBENSTEIN Head Class Ambassador srubenstein127@gmail.com
’86 STEPHEN R. GORMAN Head Class Ambassador stephen.r.gorman@gmail.com
’87 HAROLD R. BEACHAM JR Head Class Ambassador hal.beacham44@comcast.net
’88 SHAWN E. ATKINSON
Co-Head Class Ambassador shawnatki@gmail.com
’88 PETER D. REED
Co-Head Class Ambassador pdreed18@gmail.com
’89 ROBERT M. WILEMAN Head Class Ambassador rmw@wilemanagency.com
CATHY AND TONY TATTERSFIELD ’81 , EILEEN AND COLEY BOOKBINDER ’81 , AND ELIZABETH AND JAY SIMPSON ’81 ENJOYING SUMMER.
AOF ALUM AND FORMER TEACHER (1986–87) JACK JOHNSON ’81 AND HIS WIFE, JANET, VISITED CAMPUS OVER THE SUMMER. THEY ARE PICTURED WITH JACK’S AOF CLASSMATE AND CURRENT AOF DEAN, TEACHER, COACH, AND DORM PARENT MIKE SYMES ’81, P’16
DEAN GRAHAM ’84, JERRY GARVEY ’82, BRIAN CONROY ’82, H’13, P’20, AND A FRIEND PLAYED A ROUND OF GOLF TOGETHER OVER THE SUMMER.
LUKE ARCHAMBAULT ’04, JOHN BIRLE ’85, JOHN GARDNER, STEVE GORMAN ’86, AND JOHN ASHE ’86, P’15, ’17 GOT TOGETHER TO CHAT ABOUT AVON AND TALK ABOUT THE GLORY DAYS OF THE 80S AT FARMINGTON COUNTRY CLUB.
AND JAMES
’03
SHAWN ATKINSON ’88 AND PATRICK SHERIDAN ’04 HOSTED MIKE MULLIN ’91, P’26 AND ROB DOWLING ’91, P’22 AT BALTUSROL GOLF CLUB IN NEW JERSEY OVER THE SUMMER.
90s
’90 PETER J. DECKERS
Head Class Ambassador deckersp@avonoldfarms.com
’91 ROBERT A. DOWLING JR. Head Class Ambassador dowlingr@avonoldfarms.com
There is a chance of seeing NICK DEANS ’91, P’27 and MIKE MULLEN ’91, P’26 if you visit campus on a game day, since both currently have sons at AOF. DAMIAN FOX ’91, P’23 ran into COLEY LYNCH ’91 at Whole Foods. Coley recently became a Dungeon Master, the highest rank for those who play the popular Dungeons and Dragons game.
BELOW: BRENDAN FAULKNER ’91 is living in West Hartford as a no-holds-barred trial lawyer for a large Hartford firm. Brendan spends a lot of his time at the rink watching his three sons, Fred,
BILL BEGIEN ’87
TANG
MET AT THE HARVARD CLUB IN NYC AND ENJOYED SHARING OLD AVON STORIES.
ABOVE: KEITH FESTA ’91 is living in Newton with his wife, Nancy, and daughters, Ella (14) and Mia (10). Festa is busy selling TV and stream advertising for Effectv Boston, where he is the head of sales. Keith encourages all Winged Beavers to hit him up when in Beantown.
ABOVE: Whoever is looking for a first-class website should reach out to NEAL KOBLITZ ’91 in Jupiter, Fla. Neal is married to Jennifer and has two kids, Ryan (13) and Katie (15). Neal and Ryan got to hang out with the Stanley Cup Champion Panthers just days after winning the cup.
Charlie, and George. Classmate
DAMIAN FOX ’91, P’23 will be rooting against his eldest son Charlie’s team at the Christmas Classic, as he laces them up for Berkshire this year. Brendan is a sought-after speaker on distracted driving. “It should be mandatory for all of you with driving-age kids to put your kid on the phone with him for 15 minutes. Kids that age don’t listen to us, but they will listen to him—scary stuff.”
DAMIAN FOX ’91, P’23 ended up sitting behind CHRIS HETHERINGTON ’91 on a flight recently. Chris is the new owner of Fathead, and rumor has it, we can expect some limited edition AOF Fatheads appearing at our 35th reunion.
DAMIAN FOX ’91, P’23 sees JARED RUCCI ’91 from time to time. Jared is still happily married to Steph, an Avon townie like Fox. Jared works in finance and spends his time coaching soccer for his two sons Andrew (10) and Gavin (7) in Hoboken. Andrew just wrapped up lacrosse camp at AOF for his second year in a row.
As far as noteworthy reports go, DAMIAN FOX ’91, P’23 shares a story from a recent trip with his wife of 25 years, Heather, and his two kids, LUCA ’23 and Ella.
“When on the Amalfi Coast this summer, I rented a car against all advice. On our last day, the main road from Positano to Naples was closed due to rocks falling on the road. The only way out was over the mountain and through many small towns with insanely narrow roads and countless hairpin curves. I planned to follow the taxicab our friends smartly reserved for the 4 a.m. ride. When telling the cab driver I was going to follow him, I could immediately tell his only goal that day was to lose me. We were off like a rocket. The drive was simply indescribable. I only hit one moped and made it. Sixty-seven minutes of almost absolute precision. Arriving at the toll booth in Naples, as the family continued to sleep through the once-in-a-lifetime performance of their fearless patriarch, the cab driver gave me a slight nod. Similar to that of a prizefighter who just survived a 15-round beating.”
BELOW: One half of the famous Hornish bros, ROB HORNISH ’91 lives in Austin, Texas, with his wife, Jen, and two kids, Ryan (9) and McKenna (15). Rob is CSO at Redaptive, Inc. in Denver Colo. Rob spends his summers in Madison, Conn., where he is happy to get a tee time if anyone is passing by the Connecticut shoreline and is up to losing money to Rob in a match. Rob and DON HORNISH ’91 recently attended the CFB Natty game.
For those of you who are parched while driving near Rahway, N.J., you can visit AL POVALSKY ’91 at Wet Ticket Brewing. When Big Al isn’t behind his desk on Park Avenue with the Maxim group, you can find his smiling face behind the bar at his microbrewery. Al has been married to his wife, Heather, for 24 years and has three talented kids. Joseph just graduated from Elon, Elizabeth is playing Lax for Susquehanna, and Michael is a freshman at Lehigh studying engineering. You can pick up Wet Ticket suds throughout New Jersey.
TODD CARROLL ’91, MIKE HEINKE ’90, P’25, THERON FOLEY ’90, AND DAMIAN FOX ’91, P’23 AT THE FOXBOX MANUFACTURING PLANT IN OHIO.
LEFT: While filming Family Feud in Atlanta, Ga., with their family, TED RULISON ’98 (left) and PARKER RULISON ’97 (middle) were able to meet up with BRIAN BUZUN ’97 (right). They had a fantastic time catching up with Brian over lunch and some drinks. The Rulison family had an awesome experience filming Family Feud, which will be aired in April of 2025.
ABOVE: For those Avonians in the movie and TV world, you may want to reconnect with ELLIOT WAGNER ’91. “I’ve been living in the D.C. area since finishing grad school in ’97. Currently living in Chevy Chase, Md., with my wife of 21 years, Tracy, and two kids. Kathryn, 19, just finished her freshman year at Penn State. Jake, 17, is a rising senior at Sidwell Friends in D.C., playing football and currently in the thick of his college search. I’m working at Warner Bros. Discovery as SVP of Content Licensing & Partnerships, selling the studio’s TV programming and films to broadcasters, streaming platforms, and other outlets worldwide. I’m fortunate to be working alongside another alum, MATT BUTLER ’91, and our roles bring us in frequent contact. I also work as an adjunct professor at American University, teaching a graduate course in their School of Communications covering international film and TV markets. The job keeps me busy and has allowed me to travel all over the
world. Otherwise, I spend my downtime with family and friends, playing as much golf as I can, and fishing when that’s not an option. Life is good! Looking forward to catching up with the legendary Class of ’91 at our 35th reunion in 2026.”
’92 WILLIAM P. AUSTIN
Co-Head Class Ambassador wpaustin55@gmail.com
’92 DAMIEN J. EGAN
Co-Head Class Ambassador degan2@hotmail.com
’93 LANCE A. CASHION
Co-Head Class Ambassador lancec@christchapelbc.org
’93 ADAM K. CLINE
Co-Head Class Ambassador adamcline50@gmail.com
’94 GRAHAM C. FULLER
Head Class Ambassador grahamcraigfuller@gmail.com
’95 JOHN P. MCAULIFFE Co-Head Class Ambassador john.mcauliffe@sig.com
JASON LEMANSKY ’91 WITH HIS FAMILY, HUTCH (14), CRAWFORD (18), PAYNE (16), WALKER (21), AND HIS WIFE, HUNTER.
JASON PARKER ’91, NICK DEANS ’91, P’27, TODD CARROLL ’91, AND PAT ASHE ’91 SPENT TIME CATCHING UP IN WESTPORT, CONN., THIS SUMMER.
’95 ANTHONY D. SILVESTRO
Co-Head Class Ambassador tony.silvestro@insperity.com
’96 MARK A. CARUSO Head Class Ambassador mcaruso@gmail.com
ABOVE: AUSTIN SPERRY ’96 and his skipper John Kostecki took first place this September in the 2024 Star World Championship, a series of international sailing regattas in the Star Class. It was an extremely tight competition, but ultimately, the "Captain Avon" boat took first place, with Sperry and Kostecki hoisting the 100+ year old trophy that will now don their names.
FOLLOWING THE INAUGURAL SENIOR CLASS ALUMNI DINNER, SOME OF OUR ALUMNI GUESTS GATHERED AT SEASONS RESTAURANT & TAP ROOM. BACK ROW LEFT TO RIGHT: MIKE DAVIS ’04, JOE SULLO ’19, ANDREW CORRIGAN ’98, JACK DOWD ’07, JON FUGGE ’04 ; FRONT ROW LEFT TO RIGHT: WESLEY COUTURE ’03, LUKE ARCHAMBAULT ’04, MIKE CONROY ’85, P’22, BRIAN KELAHER ’04, MICHAEL XIE ’22, BRIAN MAITLAND ’80, P’18
’97 TIMOTHY B. STAY
Co-Head Class Ambassador timothystay@gmail.com
’97 KYLE R. YOUNGQUIST
Co-Head Class Ambassador bigkyleyoungquist@gmail.com
’98 J. ANDREW CORRIGAN
Head Class Ambassador jamesandrewcorrigan@gmail.com
’99 DAVID R. GRYBOSKI
Co-Head Class Ambassador david@ghgdevelopment.com
’99 STEPHEN A. ZAPPONE
Co-Head Class Ambassador zappones@yahoo.com
00s
’00 MICHAEL J. O’NEILL
Co-Head Class Ambassador michaeloneill27@yahoo.com
’00 DANIEL J. SEIDEN
Co-Head Class Ambassador seidend@gmail.com
’01 CHRISTOPHER D. COLEMAN
Co-Head Class Ambassador christopherdcoleman@gmail.com
BRIAN MAITLAND ’80, P’18 AND CHASE MAITLAND ’18 VISITED MATT KOWALCHICK ’99 ON CAMPUS IN AUGUST.
’01 NICHOLAS H. LAROCQUE
Co-Head Class Ambassador larocque.nicholas@gmail.com
’02 WILLIAM N. PALMER
Head Class Ambassador wnpalmer@gmail.com
’03 JAMES T. TANG
Head Class Ambassador jamesttang@gmail.com
’04 LUKE R. ARCHAMBUALT
Co-Head Class Ambassador archambaultl@avonoldfarms.com
’04 MATTHEW H. MORAN
Co-Head Class Ambassador matthew.h.moran@gmail.com
’05 ANDREW B. LAWRENCE Co-Head Class Ambassador mooklawrence@gmail.com
’05 DANE G. LEMERIS Co-Head Class Ambassador dlemeris@gmail.com
’06 KEVIN T. DRISCOLL Co-Head Class Ambassador kevin.t.driscoll@gmail.com
’06 JOSHUA P. PAVANO Co-Head Class Ambassador jpavano@gmail.com
’07 CASEY R. COONS Co-Head Class Ambassador caseycoons4@gmail.com
’07 TYLER C. HADDAD Co-Head Class Ambassador tyler.c.haddad@gmail.com
’08 DOUGLAS J. BEYER Co-Head Class Ambassador dbeyer11789@gmail.com
’08 WILL H. HENDRICKS Co-Head Class Ambassador willheatonhendricks@gmail.com
’09 JOHN B. BEATH Co-Head Class Ambassador beathj@gmail.com
’09 JAKE R. BOURGAULT Co-Head Class Ambassador jake.bourgault@gmail.com
MIKE FISH ’95, P’27, CHARLIE HAMILTON ’03, HOST RUSS LALLIER ’03, AND LUKE ARCHAMBAULT ’04 ENJOYED AN INCREDIBLE DAY OF GOLF AT THE GREATHORSE IN HAMPDEN, MASS.
COREY SALVATELLI ’00, MIKE O’NEILL ’00, HOST MATT BISCALDI ’00, JAMIE MEADOWS ’92, JOHN GARDNER, MICK MOUNSEY ’00, P’26, LUKE ARCHAMBAULT ’04, AND KC TENUKAS ’00 GOT TOGETHER AT SPRINGFIELD COUNTRY CLUB FOR AN EARLY 25TH-YEAR CLASS REUNION FOR THE CLASS OF 2000.
ABOVE: DAN SEIDEN ’00 and JON HARTNETT ’95 caught up in Hilton Head Island, S.C., for a round of golf at Moss Creek over the summer.
JASON LAVORGNA ’04 graduated from Southern Connecticut State University with a post-master’s degree in educational leadership and an 092 Certificate.
10s
’10 PATRICK D. HAMPTON Head Class Ambassador pdavishampton@gmail.com
’11 HARRISON M. LYONS Co-Head Class Ambassador hlyons@suffolk.com
’11 OLIVER K. ROTHMANN Co-Head Class Ambassador ollie.rothmann33@gmail.com
’12 CONNOR P. DOYLE Co-Head Class Ambassador doyle12187@gmail.com
’12 JOHN D. SHAMBURGER Co-Head Class Ambassador shamburgerd@gmail.com
’13 WILSON P. MEYER Co-Head Class Ambassador wilsonpmeyer@gmail.com
’13 JOHN VAN ALLEN III Co-Head Class Ambassador jjghyu@gmail.com
’14 MICKOY R. NICHOL Co-Head Class Ambassador nicholm@avonoldfarms.com
’14 RYAN D. PHILLIPS Co-Head Class Ambassador rydphillips@gmail.com
’15 WILLIAM C. DAVIS Co-Head Class Ambassador cdavis7@me.com
’15 CHRISTIAN E. DI ANTONIO Co-Head Class Ambassador diantoniochristian@gmail.com
’16 MATTHEW T. HORTON Co-Head Class Ambassador matt.horton.t@gmail.com
’16 ALESSO R. MARCOGLIESE Co-Head Class Ambassador alessio.marcogliese@gmail.com
’17 KEVIN A. SIEBER
Head Class Ambassador ksieber@friars.providence.edu
’18 KEVIN E. HUVELDT
Head Class Ambassador kevinhuveldt4@gmail.com
’19 MAXWELL A. MILLER
Head Class Ambassador mmiller20413@gmail.com
THREE FRESHMAN-YEAR ELEPHANT HALLMATES CELEBRATED THE FUTURE NUPTIALS OF ADRIAN KEYES ’04 IN NEW JERSEY!
HARRY PRICE ’11 AND RYAN MATALON ’04 VISITED MIKE NICOLIA ’12 AND ALEX NICOLIA ’04 IN NEW YORK TO CELEBRATE MIKE’S 30TH BIRTHDAY.
STEPHEN THIBAULT ’16 GOT MARRIED ON JUNE 20TH, 2024. FRIEND PETER SIEGEL ’14 WAS HIS BEST MAN. “KEN LAROCQUE WAS RIGHT WHEN HE SAID TO LOOK AROUND THE AUDITORIUM AND THAT WEDDING PARTIES WILL BE MADE OUT OF AOF GUYS WE MEET.”
MICKOY NICHOL ’14 AND GABRIELLE EUSTACHE-NICHOL GOT MARRIED IN JUNE 2024 AND CELEBRATED ON CAMPUS!
A GROUP OF YOUNG ALUMNI GATHERED IN NEW YORK CITY. PICTURED LEFT TO RIGHT: DAWSON LEONARD ’17, LUKE ARCHAMBAULT ’04, JACK GAFFNEY ’16 (FRONT), HARRISON LEONARD ’19 (BACK), SAM MILLER ’16 (FRONT), BRYAN ELLIS ’18 (BACK), ALESSIO MARCOGLIESE ’16 (BACK), DYLAN GAFFNEY ’17 (FRONT), ZACH TUCCI ’18, BURKE MAGNUS ’17, JACK LYNCH ’17, TAYLOR KIRBY ’17, ALEC FERRY ’17.
HENRY ROOT ’20 (LEFT) GRADUATED FROM THE UNITED STATES MERCHANT MARINE ACADEMY. PICTURED WITH OLDER BROTHER ROBERT ROOT ’15 (RIGHT).
PHAT TRAN ’19, MICKOY NICHOL ’14, AND GABRIELLE EUSTACHE-NICHOL IN HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM.
20s
’20 AUGUSTUS G. SHAMBURGER
Head Class Ambassador shammyg12@gmail.com
’21 PATRICK “PJ” A. NEAL
Co-Head Class Ambassador peejneal7@gmail.com
’21 WILLIAM B. SMALLEY
Co-Head Class Ambassador will.smalley@fairfieldcountryday.org
’22 NIKHIL SATPATHY
Head Class Ambassador nikhilsatpathy@gmail.com
CHASE DONALDSON ’68
ENJOYED LUNCH WITH SEVERAL AOF ALUMNI WHO CURRENTLY ATTEND BATES COLLEGE IN LEWISTON, MAINE, PRIOR TO LEAVING FOR SUMMER BREAK. PICTURED LEFT TO RIGHT: AMIR THOMAS ’21, CHASE DONALDSON ’68, AIDAN ROONEY ’21, AND ZANDER MITCHELL ’23.
MIKE PERRONE ’16, JAKE WHITTY ’16, FRANKIE WHITTY, TUCKER SYMES ’16, AND DANIEL WINSLOW ’16 PICTURED AT JAKE AND FRANKIE’S WEDDING AT AOF IN AUGUST 2024.
THE SCHOOL HAS LEARNED OF THE FOLLOWING DEATHS:
RICHARD W. WALKER ’52
JOHN E. KIMBERLY ’55
FREDERICK O. CLARK JR. ’55
FRANK H. NEHER JR. ’58
HOLLIS J. GRIFFIN ’59
HENRY “HANK” GARDNER III ’62
THOMAS “KNICK” CURTIS JR. ’63
ANTHONY “TONY” ZINSSER ’64
J. ADDISON BERKEY III ’65
RUSSELL B. RISING ’67
CHRISTOPHER WOOLLEY ’74
J. DAVID SCOTT ’83
BROOK CHASE ’85
BRIAN “PATRICK” BROWN ’03
MICKOY NICHOL ’14 VISITED TAIYO MINAMI ’24 IN TOKYO, JAPAN.
A GROUP OF ALUMNI GATHERED IN NYC FOR A CASUAL EVENING OF DRINKS OVER THE SUMMER.
PARTING SHOT
On September 21, Avon Old Farms School held a heartfelt dedication ceremony for the newly constructed Peter A. Aron ’65 Memorial Patio. The event marked the culmination of years of thoughtful planning to restore a beloved space on campus. For decades, Peter Aron, a devoted alumnus, and his family played a pivotal role in the growth and success of Avon Old Farms, both through their service and their philanthropy. This new patio now stands as a lasting tribute to Peter’s memory and his contributions to the school.
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
