I recently calculated that over the course of my twenty-five years as a school head more than 10,000 resumes and cover letters had come across my desk from prospective teachers. From that sizeable outpouring of interest in a teaching position, slightly more than 200 teachers have been hired to fill a variety of roles. Given the fact that recruiting and retaining outstanding teachers is the most important aspect of my role as Head of School, it is hard not to think about what motivates an individual to present herself or himself as a candidate for a teaching opening. For inexperienced applicants, the prospect of a job, any teaching job, looms large. For others, there may be a sense that their skills would be better utilized in another environment. And, for yet others, there may be an affinity to the philosophy of the school and the need to fulfill their objectives as a teacher in a place where their training, experience, and talent will be fully appreciated, and professional growth will be nurtured.
Thinking back on these many thousands of letters and resumes, there is a common denominator or two which can be found in the large majority of the correspondence with teaching candidates. The most common threads are a commitment to children and young people and a strong idealism born out of the belief that their presence in a classroom and in the school will make a difference in the intellectual, social, and emotional well being of their charges. The other recurring theme in these introductory letters is a strong sense of service, almost as if they have been called to help students develop a zest for learning and a concern for one’s fellow man.
With these reflections ruminating in my mind, it was timely to come across Tracy Kidder’s extraordinary book Mountains Beyond Mountains: The Quest of Dr. Paul Farmer, a Man Who Would Cure the World. You may have read about Paul Farmer in a recent issue of U.S. News and World Reports which featured Farmer as one of the 20 “best leaders” of our time. Although his name is hardly on the tip of anyone’s tongue, his crusade to make a difference in the world certainly merits our attention. Here is a person, brought up on a bus and on a boat, whose intellect and energy caught the attention of a mentor who steered him to Duke, and then Harvard, where he determined that his formal education would be worthless unless he reached out into the world, attacking the most challenging infectious diseases and saving lives.
Mountains Beyond Mountains takes the reader from Cambridge to Haiti, Peru, Cuba, and Russia as Farmer, through force of personality and commitment, changes customary medical approaches and practices. He founded a small public charity, Partners in Health, and later enlisting the help of the world’s most powerful foundations, in order to continue his quest to cure the world. Choosing to work in some of the more destitute countries of the world, Farmer followed a philosophy that “the only real nation is humanity itself,” not enveloped by a border or a political credo.
How were the seeds of service sown in Dr. Paul Farmer? How does one emerge from a childhood with few advantages and decide that one person is capable of taking on the conventions of the world medical community? Why does one person possess so much energy, creativity, and passion and then choose to do something with these gifts? These are important questions, very much at the heart of what we do in schools. What seeds have been sown with our 700 students? What moment transformed someone’s thinking about his own capabilities or about his place in the world? One of the greater responsibilities of a teacher is to recognize that every encounter presents the possibility of a lifechanging moment of inspiration or discouragement. For that reason alone, I have always viewed teachers as the most powerful vehicles of change in our society. The idealism reflected in a simple cover letter to a prospective employer must be nurtured and fed over the years of a teaching career so that at the time when a Paul Farmer walks into one of our classrooms, we are ready to give him what he needs to “cure the world.”
I must admit that reading Mountains Beyond Mountains left me at once exhilarated, guilty, uncomfortable, and inspired. Farmer makes most mortal human beings feel inadequate and lazy. However, I have decided to focus more on the hopeful truth and power of the Haitian proverb that says, “Beyond mountains there are mountains; as we solve one problem, another problem presents itself, and so you go on and try to solve that one too.” In that way, teachers have much in common with Paul Farmer.
George is one of many Sanford students and faculty who served in the armed forces during World War II, each of whom was presented an identification bracelet by Ellen Q. Sawin. George has cherished his for all these years and decided to return the bracelet to Sanford for archival displays. Currently, the bracelet is displayed in a showcase in Stephen May Hall.
A Life Dedicated to Children and Youths:
George Pickering ‘45
Back in 1937, when George Pickering came to Sunny Hills School (Sanford School’s original name), he could not have known that his years here, from third through twelfth grade, would be a defining experience of his life. George was destined to become an educator himself—the owner and operator of some of the most highly regarded residential summer camps in the country. He patterned these camps, he says, after Sanford School.
George’s experience at Sanford exemplified the school’s motto: No Talent Lies Latent. A campus leader at Sanford, he was elected “Gavel Boy” as a senior, giving him responsibility for the younger boys in the dormitories. His recognition at Commencement as “Best Loved by Younger Children” presaged his future career.
“[Sanford School] pioneered a phrase often used today—‘No child left behind.’ I could easily have been a child left behind, but I wasn’t,” George says. Later, as he progressed from camp counselor to camp director to camp founder, he made sure that none of the children in his care was ever left behind either.
George began his career as the first full-time director of Camp Ridgecrest for Boys. He went on to establish several summer camps in his adopted home of western North Carolina, including Camp Ahoy, Camp Merri-Mac, and Camp Hollymont. His most significant contribution, however, was founding Camp Rockmont, which grew to be the largest boys camp in the southeastern United States (“and I daresay the best,” George adds). This year, Camp Rockmont celebrates its 50th anniversary. Through each of these camps, George shared his strong Christian faith and his dedication to others.
“[Sanford School] pioneered a phrase often used today—‘No child left behind.’ I could easily have been a child left behind, but I wasn’t,” George says. Later, as he progressed from camp counselor to camp director to camp founder, he made sure that none of the children in his care was ever left behind either.
It would be nearly impossible to calculate the number of children whose lives George has touched. He estimates that 58,000 boys came through Camp Rockmont alone during his 32 years there. George and his wife, Jenie, still live adjacent to the camp. Not a week goes by, he says, that a former camper or counselor doesn’t drop by to visit.
George is devoted to his family, which includes three children and four grandchildren. For the sake of his own and other families, he has always volunteered in the community. He served in leadership roles in the local Chamber of Commerce, the Red Cross, the Lions Club, a local hospice, and several professional associations. A close friend of the Reverend Billy Graham, George was for many years on the board of directors for Graham’s radio broadcasting corporation.
George has been a trustee of Mars Hill College and of the Asheville School, one of the nation’s leading boarding schools for students in grades 9-12. His role at the Asheville School was especially rewarding, he says, because the school environment reminded him so much of Sanford, where it all began for him.
“Creating is part of living.”
Glamorous by Design:
Luis Estevez ‘47
L
uis Estevez spent the better part of the past four years writing his memoir, Passions, Fashion, Fortunes & Fun: The Life and Style of Luis Estevez (not yet published). The conclusion he has modestly drawn is that he was “very lucky.” But while luck may have presented a few opportunities, it was Luis’s immense talent that took him to the top of the fashion world.
After graduating from Sanford in 1947, Luis returned to his native Cuba to study architecture at the University of Havana. Eager to return to the U.S., he jumped at the chance two years later to work in New York City with legendary window display artist Henry Callahan, a vice president at Lord & Taylor. It was there that Luis’s extraordinary flair with fabric was discovered. He went on to study at Traphagen School of Fashion and to apprentice at the House of Patou in Paris.
By 1955, Luis was back in New York designing a ready-to-wear collection under his own name. He became known for his dramatic yet simple designs, daring necklines, and elegant cocktail and evening dresses. Even when designing for the mass market, Luis infused his creations with glamour. “Glamour has been one of the most important things in my life. I lived it from day one. My mother, my aunt, and many ladies in Havana dressed stylishly in designs from Paris,” he says.
At 24 he became the youngest designer ever to receive the American Fashion Critic’s Coty Award, and he remains the only designer to win the Chicago Gold Coast Award three times. Luis ranks with top Hispanic designers Cristobal Balenciaga, Manolo Blahnik, Adolfo, Oscar de la Renta, and Carolina Herrera. In 1990, he received the Hispanic Designers Lifetime Achievement Award. His designs are among the collections of the Smithsonian Institution.
Luis was at the height of his career as a Seventh Avenue designer when he shocked colleagues by moving to the West Coast. His career suffered not a bit. He continued to design for Hollywood’s most glamorous actresses, including Claudette Colbert, Greta Garbo, Vivien Leigh, Merle Oberon, Lana Turner, and Faye Dunaway (all of whom became close friends).
He designed a clothing line for actress Eva Gabor and under his own label designed women’s wear, furs, swimwear, and men’s wear. A favorite of First Lady Betty Ford (he also designed for Nancy Reagan), he attended numerous White House dinners.
Luis never abandoned his interest in architecture, and through the years he has designed houses for himself, friends, and clients. Just six months ago, he and a partner started an architectural design and decorating firm in California.
“I have to create,” Luis explains. “I don’t know of any designers or painters who stopped creating before they died. Creating is part of living.”
Helping the Old Country to Face the
Future:
Katrina Cakste Wilson ‘57
Katrina Cakste Wilson was a frightened 6-year-old when she fled her native Latvia in 1944 with her mother and older sister, hidden in barns under the hay and smuggled aboard a boat to Sweden. By then her father, who was head of the Latvian Underground, had already been sent to a concentration camp. The Cakstes later learned that he died at the camp in February 1945. Katrina’s family moved to the U.S. in 1950, and she entered Sanford as an eighth-grade boarding student in 1952. Her new friends nicknamed her “Kitty.” Although she continued to speak Latvian with her family, Katrina lived a life much the same as her American friends. She graduated from Sanford, worked in medical research, then married Sanford classmate H. David “Dave” Wilson ‘57. Dave was ordained an Episcopal priest, and Katrina devoted her time to family, community, and church outreach, including a successful program to establish vocational schools for street boys in Honduras.
Latvia remained a distant, troubling memory until 1989, when perestroika finally made it safe for Katrina, her sister, and their mother to visit their former country. What they saw devastated them.
In May 2005, Katrina and Dave traveled to Latvia once more, where Katrina was honored by Latvian President Vaira Vike , -Freiberga with the “Three-Star Order,” the country’s highest civilian honor. The Order’s motto, “through thorns toward the stars,” testifies to the fact that “great achievements are often attained in the face of adversity, toil, and suffering.”
“Latvia was like a third-world country. Buildings still showed damage from World War II. People had to stand in line for basic necessities,” Katrina says. Because the Cakstes had made the trip under the auspices of a medical convention, Katrina learned a great deal about the health care situation. “Most dental work was done without anesthesia. Hospitals lacked supplies and modern medical equipment,” she recalls.
Determined to help the people of Latvia, she returned home to Florida and founded Baltic Outreach. For the next 10 years, Katrina would travel to Latvia annually to unpack and distribute trailer loads of supplies for hospitals and orphanages.
She spoke at hospitals and universities around the U.S. to solicit donations of money and equipment. Baltic Outreach shipped hospital beds, cribs, dental chairs, X-ray equipment, medicine, and medical supplies. Orphanages received clothing, school supplies, sports gear, and playground equipment. Katrina exhorted orphanage staffs to go beyond maintenance care and to help the children develop their talents and capacities.
“I must have quoted the Sanford motto [No Talent Lies Latent] hundreds of times to various groups,” she recalls. “The orphans were being lovingly cared for, but it was assumed that they would never be able to live independently.”
Significant progress in Latvia allowed Baltic Outreach to be discontinued in 2000, but the effects are still being felt. In May 2005, Katrina and Dave traveled to Latvia once more, where Katrina was honored by Latvian President Vaira Vike , -Freiberga with the Three-Star Order, the country’s highest civilian honor. The Order’s motto, “through thorns toward the stars,” testifies to the fact that “great achievements are often attained in the face of adversity, toil, and suffering.”
Dave and Katrina at Sanford’s 2005 Homecoming celebration.
The President of Latvia (right) greets Dave and Katrina Wilson.
Jazz Master:
Matthew Shipp ‘78
Inspired by the “ecclesiastical dread” of the music at his church, Matthew Shipp decided at age 5 to be a church organist and began taking piano lessons with that goal in mind. Seven years later, a televised concert by famed blues-soul-jazz singer and pianist Nina Simone changed his mind. From that point on, Matthew was a jazz pianist heart and soul.
“There’s no ‘way’ of becoming a jazz musician,” he says. “The quest just begins. You gather material by listening to music, seeking out other musicians, and finding teachers who can help you develop.”
By the time Matthew entered Sanford as a sophomore, he was completely dedicated to jazz piano. He was encouraged in his development by the interest and acceptance shown by his teachers and fellow students. “I really, really loved Sanford,” he says. “The two years I spent there were possibly as close to paradise as you can get.”
His musical quest took him from the University of Delaware to the New England Conservatory of Music and, finally, led him to “jump into the vortex” of New York City in 1984—the place, then and now, to become and be a jazz musician.
Actually, “jazz” is too restrictive a term for the music Matthew composes and plays. Free jazz, avant garde, modern classical, gospel, bebop, electronica, hip-hop—Matthew draws on all these forms to create something wholly original. “Whatever I project poetically or lyrically through the music is me,” he says. “Everything else—if the texture is more classical or more jazz—that’s just like putting on a different shirt and pants, it doesn’t change the me that’s underneath.”
The “me” that is Matthew has been embraced enthusiastically by critics and music lovers alike. His work has been described as daring, innovative, compelling, intellectual, emotional and wildly unconventional. Respected music writer Francis Davis has called Matthew “the star of the latterday free-jazz scene.”
His 1987 self-released album, Sonic Explosions, went unnoticed, but his next attempt, the self-released Circular Temple, sold out. After it was re-released on another label, Circular Temple became the first jazz CD ever to be the lead review in Rolling Stone. Matthew Shipp’s career took off.
By the time Matthew entered Sanford as a sophomore, he was completely dedicated to jazz piano. He was encouraged in his development by the interest and acceptance shown by his teachers and fellow students. “I really, really loved Sanford,” he says. “The two years I spent there were possibly as close to paradise as you can get.”
To date, Matthew has released 25 CDs as lead performer (his 26th, One, is due out January 24) and done studio work on perhaps 50 more. He has toured throughout the United States and Europe. Matthew has received a great deal of attention in the past few years for his work as artistic director of ThirstyEar’s Blue Series of CDs, which marries a respect for jazz’s past with enthusiasm for its future. Matthew sets the direction for the series, identifies musicians, and, in some cases becomes intimately involved in the production of the CDs.
Rolling Stone calls the Blue Series: “a blueprint for the shape of jazz to come.” And Matthew Shipp is leading the way.
Ann Shurts Tatlock ‘77 Touching Others Through Fiction:
A
nn Shurts Tatlock often receives letters from fans, but one in particular has stuck with her. A woman wrote to say that Ann’s novel I’ll Watch the Moon had given her “a real sense of hope and encouragement” as she struggled to support her deeply depressed husband.
In the book, set in the late 1940s, young Nova Tierney is anxiously watching and waiting as her older brother battles polio, and she finds comfort in knowing that “as long as the moon was in its place and the stars were burning and the planets were moving through their spheres ... everything was all right.”
The woman wrote again later to tell Ann that she had begun to read the book to her husband, who also found it comforting. It was no miracle recovery from depression, but it was a beginning. Naturally, Ann is pleased by her books’ commercial success and by the awards and recognition that have come her way, but her greatest pleasure comes from touching her readers. “I just love sitting down and creating a whole new world, and I hope that I’m saying something positive through it. I hope that I can encourage readers and give them a sense of hope. As a Christian novelist, I write from that point of view,” she says.
Ann fell in love with literature and poetry at Sanford. Receiving the Frank P. Simmons Memorial Literary Award at Commencement, she says, gave her “the confidence that I needed to go on and become a writer.” She earned a BA in liberal arts and a master’s in communication, and then began a career as a journalist.
Ann fell in love with literature and poetry at Sanford. Receiving the Frank P. Simmons Memorial Literary Award at Commencement, she says, gave her “the confidence that I needed to go on and become a writer.” She earned a BA in liberal arts and a Master’s in communication, and then began a career as a journalist. When turmoil overtook her life—her mother died of cancer at a young age at the same time that Ann’s first marriage was ending in divorce—Ann began to seek meaning through writing fiction. “During this time of intense grief, shame, and spiritual brokenness, I needed a new way to express my feelings,” she says.
It took seven false starts before she completed a novel that she felt was good enough. Her husband, Bob Tatlock, found her first agent, because Ann said she simply wasn’t ready to face rejection. She need not have worried. Bethany House published A Room of My Own, in 1998, and the book received a Silver Angel Award for Excellence in Media. Ann went on to publish A Place Called Morning (also 1998), All the Way Home (2002) and I’ll Watch the Moon (2003). She received The Christy Award for Contemporary Christian Fiction in 2003.
Of all her awards, though, she remains most proud of the Simmons Award from Sanford. “The framed award is hanging right here on the wall of my office,” she says, “and now I have the Alumni Award medallion hanging over it. Sanford just keeps encouraging me!”
Ann was honored with the Frank P. Simmons Memorial Literary Award and the Nancy Sawin Final Award for Girls (shown here) which she shared with Joan Hays ‘77.
Ann Tatlock continues her literary journey.
OnCampus
Sanford Spirit comes alive during Homecoming 2005
This year’s Homecoming celebration featured a wide array of activities, including Spirit Week festivities, a pep rally, a community picnic, a pie eating contest, fireworks, a Founder’s Day program, and more. Here are just a few highlights.
Upper School students get into the spirit
Pep Rally preparations are underway
Sanford Spirit comes alive during Homecoming 2005 OnCampus
Founder’s Day 2005 recognizes longtime Sanford educators
This year’s Founder’s Day Award was presented to Sanford faculty and staff members who have served the school for twenty or more years. Lloyd Johns, Chip Mayo, and Kathy Sexton delivered keynote addresses and accepted the award on behalf of all twelve recipients. The celebration, commemorating Sanford School’s founding by Ellen Quigley Sawin in 1930, marked the school’s 75th birthday.
Collegiality is not a behavior; rather it is an attitude which creates an atmosphere.
What we celebrate this weekend and every Founder’s Day is the continuity of collegiality that distinguishes and makes the Sanford School a unique institution.
As appreciative as we up here are for this moment and for the honor of representing our fellow teachers, it must be acknowledged that the attitude of collegiality is not exclusive to the faculty. It includes the staff that maintains the school, the administrators who facilitate the work that has to be done, and you, the students, who exemplify and demonstrate the character of Sanford in all that you do.
• FROM LLOYD JOHN’S CONTINUITYOF COLLEGIALITY FOUNDER’S DAYPRESENTATION
How appropriate that we have as our theme for this years celebration: Memories of the past, dreams of the future. It is so significant to remember and understand where you have been so that you can better plan for where you are going. These are the good ole days right now so you need to live them to their fullest, give them your best effort. Appreciate and use your time to its fullest. Dare to take a chance, venture outside the box, and make your dreams of the future a reality. Remember, these are the good ole days right now! Tomorrow’s memories of the past are being made today!
• CHIP MAYO, INHIS FOUNDER’S DAYKEYNOTEADDRESS
I can’t believe today I am saying that I have been at Sanford for thirty years. My original plan when I first came here was to stay a few years, but that plan was gone after being here a couple of months. I knew this was somewhere I wanted to be for a long time. I also knew I wanted my children here, not because I was here, but because of what was here for them: Talented and qualified teachers willing to give each student the opportunity to learn and to reach his or her potential.
• FROM KATHY SEXTON’S SANFORD: THIRTY YEARS ADDRESS
Nicholas Chong pins the mustache on Mr. MacKelcan
Division Heads (from left to right) Nancy Hebard, Eph Humphreys, and Mark Wagner bob for apples and pan for beans.
OnCampus Hockey Team raises money to fight cancer
In September, the Upper School Field Hockey Team sponsored a Car Wash for Cancer. Proceeds from the event were donated to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. These photos show team members (from left to right) Erin Rose and Katy Wiedemann hard at work and satisfied customer Merle Wiedemann standing next to her newly cleaned vehicle.
Sanford Seniors are Named National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists SEVEN EARN COMMENDED SCHOLAR STATUS
Two Sanford School students have been named 2006 National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists and seven have received Commended Scholar status in the program.
The semifinalists are Nita Sitaram and Kristine Wong. Both students have an opportunity to continue in the competition for some 8,200 Merit Scholarship® awards, worth $33 million, that will be offered next spring. To be considered for a Merit Scholarship award, semifinalists must fulfill several requirements and advance to the finalist level of the competition. About 90 percent of the semifinalists are expected to attain Finalist standing and approximately half of the finalists will be selected as Merit Scholarship winners, earning the Merit Scholar® title.
The Commended Students in the 2006 program are Hank Allingham, Mark Dalle Pazze, Katie Keeports, Erica King, Michael Pietruczenia, Katie Reynolds, and Caroline Ryon. About 34,000 Commended Students throughout the nation are being recognized for their exceptional academic promise. Although they will not continue in the 2006 competition for Merit Scholarship® awards, Commended Students placed among the top five percent of more than one million students who entered the 2006 competition.
Fourth Grade celebrates Asia Fest
On Friday, November 18th, the Sanford fourth grade celebrated Asia Fest. The festival was the culmination of the students’ study of the continent of Asia. Each student was assigned a country on which to become an expert.
Through the use of maps, literature, and class activities, students learned a great deal about the history and physical regions of Asia. While learning about the Asian geography and culture, specific skills such as map reading, use of cardinal directions, and identification of countries, capitals, and physical features were introduced and practiced. The students utilized beginning research skills while preparing for Asia Fest. Students accessed information from print resources such as almanacs and atlases as well as electronic resources such as Internet sites and World Book Online. Additionally, the students took meaningful notes and translated them into maps, charts, and graphs for an informational booth. Students were responsible for putting together a presentation that included the facts and information they gathered on their countries as well as a games, treats, and trivia for the guests.
The presentations were set up throughout the fourth grade hallway and classrooms. Parents and friends were invited to come and share in the learning. Visitors participated in games, listened to speeches written by the students, and enjoyed native culinary delights.
(From left to right) Jenna Sierocinski, Jennifer Ehret, and Dominique Williamson became experts on Cambodia, Vietnam, and Philippines.
Sanford community gathers for All School Convocation
Sunshine and smiling faces filled the Quad on a beautiful September day as nearly 900 people united for this year’s event.
Leadership and learning go hand-in-hand
John F. Kennedy once said, “Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other.” At Sanford, students benefit from both leadership and learning through buddy experiences. Here are a few examples of this year’s partnerships:
The All School Convocation brought seniors and kindergartners together.
In Middle School, eighth graders serve as friends, mentors, and helpers to fifth grade buddies. This fall, the group participated in the Second Annual Buddy Brunch.
Kindergartners joined Upper School athletes at the Homecoming 2005 Pep Rally.
Senior Leigh Ellis (left) and Latrece Hopkins
Seventh Grader Kenneth Rayes (originally from New Orleans) and his parents, Ken Rayes and Denise Michelet, were in attendance.
International Sanford students Taehoon “Tommy” Kim (Grade 7), Lauren Park (Grade 11), and Dong Min “Tommy” Kim (Grade 11) met for the first time.
Head of School Chip MacKelcan presented the Class of 2006 to those gathered.
(From left to right): Emily Sardo, Frankie Black, Lexi Hublein, Joanna Swiski, Nina Antani, and Emily Wingfield
Kerry Blecher (center) with buddies Sean Cook (left) and Ryan Struthers
Daniel Rios (left), Haydyn Johnson (center), and Jeb Carty
Valerie Medoff (left) and Katherine Roop
Trae Humphreys (left) with Mary Spadaro (center) and Morgyn Demby.
OnCampus
Halloween brings magic and more to Sanford
Halloween was a busy day on campus. Students, faculty, and family members from the Lower, Middle, and Upper Schools donned costumes and enjoyed holiday activities throughout the campus.
Feasts and festivals abound in Junior Kindergarten
Sanford’s youngest students, now three sections strong, participated in several fall festivities. The traditional JK Thanksgiving Feast was held on Friday, November 18th. After learning about the first Thanksgiving, students enjoyed dressing as Pilgrims and Native Americans for their own celebration. In preparation for the feast, the children also decorated their lofts, helped to bake muffins and cornbread, churned their own butter, and decorated the tables. In October, students took part in a JK Fall Festival, which included carving pumpkins, making caramel apples, and engaging in several artistic endeavors.
Annual Fund
AdvancementUPDATE
By the time that this SANFORD magazine reaches our many readers, the school will have a brand new section on the Sanford website for planned giving. I invite all current parents, past parents, grandparents, friends, and alumni to go to the website, click onto the GIVING column and then proceed to the planned giving material.
If Sanford School is to survive in the long term, then a successful planned giving program is an absolute must. All of the most successful independent schools have built their endowments from bequests and other planned giving instruments—all of which are described in the new website.
While annual giving helps us balance the budget each year, and periodic capital campaigns enable us to improve plant and facilities, it is money from planned gifts such as bequests that enables a successful school to endow financial aid and faculty salaries—two of the greater costs in the school world.
After viewing the new website, please contact me directly if you have any questions about naming Sanford School in your will or otherwise making Sanford a beneficiary of your estate planning.
Peter V. Buttenheim, Director of Advancement
“We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give.”
• WINSTON CHURCHILL h
Fundraising is an important measure of institutional strength and we are very grateful to all of the alumni, parents, and friends who support the school with a gift to the Annual Fund.
This year our goal is $500,000. Although this is aggressive and ambitious, it requires aggressiveness and ambition to continue Sanford’s march to secure its place among the top independent schools. Every year, it is the Annual Fund that bridges the gap between tuition and our operating expenses.
To keep Sanford the remarkable place it is today, please make Sanford School one of your top philanthropic commitments with a gift to the 2005-2006 Annual Fund.
Karen Riordan, Director of the Annual Fund
Thank you to our Annual Fund volunteers for their gifts of time and support of the Annual Fund!
During the recently completed capital campaign, the school sold commemorative bricks for $125. Parents, faculty, alumni, grandparents, and friends purchased over 300 bricks. Some of the bricks are in honor of family members. Others are in memory of relatives and former faculty members. All of the bricks adorn the brick pathways in the Quad.
By popular demand, the Buy A Brick program is back. For the same low price of $125, you too may have one or more bricks to honor family and friends or commemorate loved ones. Each brick has three lines of print, and each line has an 18-character limit.
If you would like to buy a brick, mail your order to:
BUY A BRICK
Advancement Office
Sanford School P.O. BOX 888 Hockessin, DE 19707
Checks should be made payable to Sanford School. We also accept VISA or MASTERCARD.
E-mail orders are also acceptable: Mosem@SanfordSchool.org
You can also place your order by phone with Merrilee Mose at 302.239.5263 x258
Welcome
Faculty Focus
Sanford welcomes new members to its faculty, staff, and administration
Left to right (back row)
Nancy Holland, Linda Fordham, Greg Gerken, Rob Denton, Tristan Hoffmann, Dave May, Andrew Burke, Kristy Patton, Michelle Clewell.
Sue Bachtle: Resource Teacher, Grades Three and Four—Sue is a University of Delaware graduate who completed her student teaching assignment at Sanford two years ago. She has worked with the Literacy Volunteers of America and at the Wilmington Institute Library. She is married and the mother of two young children.
Andrew Burke: Middle School History and Coaching—A graduate of Penn State with a degree in History, Andrew comes to Sanford after seven years as a teacher/coach at Germantown Academy where he taught American and World History and coached football, wrestling, and baseball. Andrew and his wife, also a teacher, have a baby daughter.
Michelle Clewell: Resource Teacher, Grade Two and Extended Day—Michelle joins the Lower School team after teaching for a year at Beth Israel Preschool in Eagle, PA as a Head Teacher in the summer program and a Lead Teacher in the four-year old program. Michelle is a graduate of Lycoming College.
Rob Denton: Buildings and Grounds—Rob joins Sanford after graduating in May from Howard Technical High School with a concentration in carpentry. He began work this past summer and helps maintain our campus, buildings, and grounds.
Cheryl Fleming: Director of Communication—After twenty years in the corporate and non-profit worlds, Cheryl joins the Sanford administrative team. She has experience at Delmarva Power, and as a public relations consultant. Earlier in her career, she wrote, produced, and anchored television and radio news broadcasts in Salisbury and Ocean City, Maryland. She is married with two children, both of whom are Sanford students.
Linda Fordham: Resource Teacher, Grade One—Linda came to the teaching profession after a career in visual design. She is a graduate of North Carolina State University. In recent years, she has devoted most of her attention to tutoring students from various independent schools, including Sanford. She is very familiar with our program, our faculty, and our students.
Greg Gerken: Upper School English and Coaching—With eight years of teaching and coaching experience in New Jersey and Maryland, Greg joins the Sanford faculty as a person with fine academic and athletic credentials. A native Delawarean, Greg’s most recent experience came at Severna Park High School. He is a graduate of West Chester University (B.A.) and Towson University (M.A.).
Michelle Gerken: Upper School History and Coaching—Michelle is a graduate of the University of Delaware with Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in History. Her most recent experience at Anne Arundel Community College and at Severna Park High School has prepared her well for the history curriculum at Sanford. Michelle and her husband, Greg, have two young sons who entered Junior Kindergarten and Grade One this fall.
Silvina Godoy: Upper School Spanish—A native of Philadelphia, Silvina joined the Sanford faculty just months after earning her graduate degree at the University of Delaware. She has experience teaching young children in a summer enrichment program, and also has taught college freshmen during her graduate studies.
Renee Hall: Junior Kindergarten Lead Teacher—Renee began working at Sanford last year in Junior Kindergarten as a long-term substitute. Prior to coming to Sanford, she worked at several area preschools including St. Mark’s and Madame Layton. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Morehead State University.
Tristan Hoffmann ‘01: Upper School Technology Coordinator and Webmaster—Tristan returns to his alma mater after graduating from the Carnegie-Mellon University-Tepper School of Business. During his time at Carnegie-Mellon, Tristan served as Sports Editor of the campus radio station and the Sports Editor of the student newspaper. He has worked at Sanford over the past several summers as a teacher and as an IT specialist.
Nancy Holland: School Receptionist—Nancy arrived at Sanford over the summer to assume the role which had been held for many years by Nora Yates. A native Wilmingtonian and graduate of Mount Pleasant High School and Northwestern University, Nancy brings an extensive background in teaching, coaching, and community work to her new position in Stephen May Hall.
Dave May: Technology Network Administrator—Dave is joining the Technology Team bringing with him over 7 years of experience in information technology after his training at the Chubb Institute. Some of you may recognize him from his work here over the years as a repair technician.
Kristy Patton: Resource Teacher, Junior Kindergarten—Kristy is a graduate of Wilmington College with a B.S. in Elementary Education. She has experience as a teacher’s aide and as a volleyball coach at Wilmington Christian School. At Sanford, she is one of our two new teachers in the third section of Junior Kindergarten, and she also serves as an assistant volleyball coach.
Karen Riordan: Director of the Annual Fund—Originally from Chicago and a graduate of Loyola University, Karen worked in marketing and sales early in her career and then moved into development and fund raising positions after moving to Delaware in 1997. Her most recent position was Assistant Director of Annual Giving at the University of Delaware. Her husband is a professor at the University of Delaware and her two children are enrolled at Sanford.
Faculty Workshops & Achievements
Jewel Boulet attended the Philadelphia Area Orff-Schulwerk Association workshop, September 10th. Jim Solomon, a master teacher and conga drummer from Florida, was the presenter.
On Friday, October 7th, Erin Coen and Jewel Boulet attended the Delaware Music Educators Association Professional Development Conference at Middletown High School. Master teachers, professors of music, composers, and specialists from Alfred Publishing Company and Scott Foresman/Silver Burdett’s Company were some of the presenters.
In September, John Ramsey was part of a group of counselors who were invited to spend three days on the campuses of Syracuse University, Ithaca College, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, and the University of Rochester. During his visits, John toured the campuses and met with students, faculty, and administrators. In addition, John also attend the National Association of College Admissions Counselors Annual Conference in Tampa, Florida. There were more than 4,000 high counselors and college admission professionals in attendance.
Dr. Pascal Brousseau, Upper School French teacher, was selected to present a speech at the 31st African Literature Association Conference, held last spring, at the University of Colorado in Boulder. Dr. Brousseau was part of a panel presentation and discussion on Senegalese writers. His presentation was entitled Ousmane Soce Diop and the mixing of culture. Dr. Brousseau also has been invited to contribute to an upcoming reference book: Bibliography of French-speaking African Literature, which will be published in France. Dr. Brousseau has a Ph.D. from the University of Virginia in French-speaking literature.
In November, Faculty Members Keith Blades, Suzanne Humphreys, and Sue Dagenais attended the Self-Injury: Understanding the Dynamics of Diagnosis workshop in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania. Sponsored by Cross Country Education, the workshop dealt with assessing and treating students demonstrating self-injuring behaviors.
SRTC presents...
Kimberly Akimbo
The Sanford Repertory Theatre Company (SRTC) opened its thirteenth season on November 11 and 12 with the dark comedy, Kimberly Akimbo. The play was written by David Lindsay-Abaire, a contemporary playwright who is quickly gaining popularity in the theatre industry. Mr. Abaire is about to make his Broadway debut this spring with Rabbit Hole, which is to be produced at the Biltmore Theatre.
Kimberly Akimbo premiered at the South Coast Playhouse in 2001 and was followed by a successful Off-Broadway run in 2003. Set in the wilds of suburban New Jersey, it is a hilarious and heartrending play about a teenager with progeria, a rare condition causing her body to age at an increased rate. When she and her family flee Secaucus under dubious circumstances, Kimberly is forced to reevaluate her life while contending with a hypochondriac mother, a rarely sober father, a scam-artist aunt, her own mortality and, most terrifying of all, the possibility of first love.
Producing this type of play, with its edgy dialogue and storyline, proved to be both a risk and a challenge for SRTC. The willingness to step away from the safety net that comes with producing “tried and true plays” to tackle a modern-day work which has rarely, if ever, been performed by teenagers has
elevated SRTC to new levels in the world of high school theatre. The selection of this play is a tribute to our SRTC actors as it shows the confidence the production staff has in their abilities. The five outstanding actors who comprised the cast, seniors Katie Keeports, Caroline Ryon, and Amanda Stoeckicht, and juniors Alex Krenz and Nolan Silverstein, surpassed everyone’s expectations with their poignant portrayals of multi-layered, complex characters.
Caroline Ryon says that performing in the show was a truly remarkable experience, adding: “Kimberly Akimbo was/is my ninth show at Sanford, and, as with all of the shows in the past, I have greatly valued this experience with SRTC. The character of Kimberly Levaco taught me innumerable lessons about how to think, feel, and act while simultaneously allowing me to participate in one of my greatest joys, theatre. Thanks to SRTC for selecting this incredible play.”
In addition to the talented cast, there were many students who worked incredibly hard on the stage crew. This year, the stage crew was led by Stage Manager Meredith Langer (12) and Assistant Stage Manager Ryan John (10).
Congratulations to all involved on a magnificent production.
Buddy (Alex Krenz, right) drives his daughter Kimberly (Caroline Ryon, left) and her friend Jeff (Nolan Silverstein) to school.
The Cast, Crew, and Production Staff of Kimberly Akimbo
Caroline Ryon happily peels off her old woman make-up which took 50 minutes to apply for every performance and dress rehearsal.
Creating a shocking moment in the play, Kimberly (Caroline Ryon) dresses like an old woman for the first time.
Stage Crew members Erica King (rear) and Tarsila Stoeckicht ’03 put finishing touches on the set.
Stage Crew members Sean Ryon (left) and Andrew DeSantis (right) begin building the set.
Buddy (Alex Krenz) comforts his wife Pattie (Katie Keeports) as she goes into labor.
From the 1998 Gift to the School Collection Artist: Sarah Herzog, Grade 6
spotlight on ATHLETICS
The fall athletic season is complete! It was a time of hard work, fun, commitment, and camaraderie with teammates and coaches. All of the Sanford School athletic teams experienced “the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat,” a slogan made famous on the Wide World of Sports television show. Three of four Upper School varsity athletic teams advanced to state tournament competition and many of our athletes were awarded with all-conference or all-state recognition for their accomplishments during the season (see the Fall 2005 Athletic Recognitions, page 21). The boys’ and girls’ cross country teams each finished in seventh place respectively in the state meet; the boys’ soccer team advanced to the first round of the state tournament; and, the field hockey team enjoyed a fourth-place seed in the state tournament and advanced to the quarterfinal round. I am very proud of the accomplishments of all of our athletes and coaches during the fall season.
I was recently honored by induction into the University of Delaware Athletics Hall of Fame, which caused me to reflect on my own athletic career. My athletic career has been a wonderful experience for me. From my first exposure to organized athletics as a fifth grader competing with the Delaware Track and Field Club through my final game as a University of Delaware senior athlete, I was fortunate to be coached by outstanding individuals on some very successful teams. Over the years I competed in track and field, field hockey, basketball, softball, and golf. A threesport athlete through high school and a two-sport athlete at the University, all of these seasons spent participating on teams would have no meaning to me without the support of many people.
My teammates, coaches, and friends were all major sources of support, but the only constant source of support (practice after practice, game after game, season after season) was my family. My mom and dad attended just about every game I played, from fifth grade through my final game in college. They, along with my sisters, cheered me on, win or lose, and offered a smile and words of encouragement following each game. I can proudly say that my family was always a positive source of pride for me in athletics. They watched the many games, track meets, and golf tournaments that I competed in and cheered for my teammates and me in a positive manner. Just as I know that I never embarrassed them by my actions as an athlete on the fields and courts, they never embarrassed me with negative behavior or words from the sidelines.
As the year in athletics continues, it is my hope that all of the Sanford School athletes, parents, and coaches can be proud of their own behavior when representing our school at athletic events. Each of us holds an important position as a representative of Sanford School. As the saying goes, “we are only as strong as our weakest link.” Ask yourself if you are the strong or weak link in our quest for good sportsmanship at Sanford School. I challenge you to become the strongest link you can be. Be positive in your support of Sanford athletics!
GO WARRIORS !!!
Joan S. Samonisky, Director of Athletics
University of Delaware honors
Photo courtesy University of Delaware Photographer: Kathy Atkinson
J OAN S AMONISKY
On Friday, November 4, 2005, Sanford School Director of Athletics Joan Samonisky was inducted into the University of Delaware Athletics Hall of Fame during a ceremony at the Bob Carpenter Center. Edgar Johnson (right), Director of the University’s Intercollegiate Athletics Program, presents Joan with her award.
GOLF CROSS COUNTRY
spotlight on ATHLETICS
FIELD HOCKEY
SOCCER
VOLLEYBALL
SOCCER
Fall 2005 Athletic Recognitions
SOCCER
SOCCER ALL CONFERENCE
First Team: Alex Carrington, Mark Carrington, Joe Crowley
Second Team: Matt Davis, John Lippincott, Alex Olivieri, Jeff Terkula
Honorable Mention: Matt Dalphon, Randy Reed
SOCCER ALL STATE
First Team: Joe Crowley
Third Team: Alex Carrington
SENIOR ALL STAR GAME: Alex Carrington
FIELD HOCKEY
FIELD HOCKEY ALL CONFERENCE
First Team: Cassandra Deitrick, Alexis Esbitt, Hannah Kuranz, Stefanie Moyer, Paris Waterman
Second Team: Kata Epalza, Jenny Jones, Anna Roosevelt
Honorable Mention: Milbrey Hendrix
FIELD HOCKEY ALL STATE:
First Team: Alexis Esbitt
Second Team: Paris Waterman
Honorable Mention: Cassandra Deitrick
SENIOR ALL STAR GAME: Alexis Esbitt
VOLLEYBALL
VOLLEYBALL ALL CONFERENCE
First Team: Amanda Stoeckicht
Second Team: Katie Keeports
Honorable Mention: Jamie Milliski
SENIOR ALL STAR GAME: Frankie Black, Katie Keeports, Julie Bacon
CROSS COUNTRY
CROSS COUNTRY ALL CONFERENCE
First Team: Courtney Jones, Kim Madden
CROSS COUNTRY ALL STATE
Second Team: Kim Madden
CROSS COUNTRY ALL-COUNTY: Kim Madden
Diamond Anniversary Party
Home & School News
The 2005-2006 school year got off to an exciting start. Instead of our traditional parent-only event held in the fall, we combined forces with the Sanford 75th Anniversary Committee to host the 75th Diamond Anniversary Party held on Saturday night, September 24th. Jennifer Madden and Synthia Wong joined me in co-chairing this event, which included delicious food, live music that was great to both listen and dance to, the annual Alumni Awards ceremony, and a viewing of the Sanford Retrospective video. Three hundred current parents, alumni, staff, and faculty attended to make this evening a big success. The decorating scheme included live pine trees that have since been planted in different locations across campus to further beautify our school. We thank all the volunteers who made this event possible.
On Friday, February 17, 2006, we are hosting the annual Faculty Appreciation Luncheon. Co-chairs Grace Derrickson, Rosemary Brooks, and Kathy Zabel are busy planning a wonderful event for the Sanford Faculty.
Mark your calendars for our annual spring fundraiser. This year’s event, which will be co-chaired by Sherry Bielicki and Linda Mulvihill, will be held on Saturday, April 22, 2006, in the Sanford Sports Center. It promises to be a fun evening; please plan to attend.
Additional Home and School Association information and updates, including minutes from our meetings, can be found on the Sanford website.
Cheryl Alfieri, President, Home & School Association
Sanford families and staff members dazzle at the
75th Diamond Anniversary Party
Parents and Event Chairpersons Synthia Wong, Jen Madden and Cheryl Alfieri
Rick Andrews, Middle School Administrative Assistant Dottie Andrews, Marguerite Donovan, and Upper School Teacher Paul Donovan
THE 75 TH DIAMOND ANNIVERSARY PARTY PROVIDED A GRAND SETTING FOR SANFORD ALUMNI TO RECONNECT WITH ONE ANOTHER AND TO MINGLE WITH CURRENT MEMBERS OF THE SANFORD FAMILY.
Director of the Annual Fund Karen Riordan (left) and Upper School Teacher Jackie Pitts ‘55 strike a pose just before the Alumni Award presentation. The dress that Jackie is wearing was designed by 2005 Alumni Award Recipient Luis Estevez (see page 3).
(From left to right): Class of 2004 Graduates Adam Koppeser, Kristin Andrews, Josh Mosberg, and Tori Foster will be celebrating their 50th Reunion at Sanford’s 125th Anniversary Party!
Alumni Mitch Hill ‘73 (left) and Graeme Ramshaw ‘98 (second from right) enjoy the moment with Graeme‘s mother and Sanford Trustee Linda Ramshaw (far right), Sanford Head of School Chip MacKelcan, and Debbie MacKelcan.
Enjoying their 30th Reunion are Dianne Hearn Gay, Lisbeth Chapin, Ph.D, Bill Siegle, and Sara Davis McCue. Sara is the aunt of current Sanford students Kaitlin Reynolds ‘06, Kelly Reynolds ‘08, and Nate Reynolds ‘14 and the sister of Junior Kindergarten Teacher Patti Reynolds.
ALUMNIMEMORIES
^A special Mother-Daughter Trio: Kathy Herzog (center) and daughters Sarah ‘04 (left) and Kate ‘05 glow at the Diamond Anniversary Party. Kathy, a former member of the Sanford Board of Trustees and past president of the Home and School Association, served as Chairperson of the 75th Anniversary Committee.
Millenium Graduates (from left to right) Valerie Moniz, Dan Brown, Katie McCarthy, Peter Martz, Justin Lareau, Cordrey Miller, Manisha Antani, Erin McGowan, Jessica Sanders, and Sarah Bowers just keep on smiling.
ALUMNI ATHLETIC EVENTS…A GRANDE TOUR OF SANFORD’S CAMPUS…REFLECTIONS OF PAST MEMORIES AND FUTURE DREAMS. THOSE THINGS, AND MORE, MADE THIS YEAR’S HOMECOMING A MEMORABLE ALUMNI CELEBRATION.
Mary Pizzala ‘05, Kristin Andrews ‘04, and Tori Foster ‘04 tell current students Lily Bieber-Ham ‘07 and Anna Roosevelt ‘07 about college life.
Dok ‘97AA and Hap ‘93 Phouthavongsa return to campus with many happy memories.
Paul Clarke ‘56, Bill Pratt ‘55, John Hunt ‘56, and Rick Huddelson ‘55 take a campus tour and are amazed with the new facilities.
(All of the people in the photos are identified from left to right.)
Kristin Andrews (left) and Shalini Neelkantan return for their second class reunion. They are members of the Class of 2004.
(From left to right): Ray Russell, Sanford Eleanor Russell ‘56AA, Marian Sawin ‘43, and Ida Smith’s memories span Sanford’s 75 years.
Sanford hockey stars from six decades gather for the Annual Alumni Hockey Match. (Front row, left to right): Patti Davis Reynolds ‘76, Kate Herzog ‘05, Lauren Kendall ‘98, Courtney Kendall ‘03, Sanford Director of Athletics Joan Samonisky, Christine Pruitt Jennings ‘95, Maureen Reardon ‘68, and Marcia Merena-Conkey ‘87. (Back row, left to right): Jackie Pitts ‘55, Annie Cajnar Lester ‘78, Judy Arning ‘70, Kathy Moon Hughes, ‘68, Emma May Hunter ‘76, Sara Davis McCue ‘75, Kerry McCue (Sara’s daughter and Patti Reynold’s niece), Beth Merena Kretzing ‘82, and Martina Cajnar Crompton ‘74.
After the Alumni Hockey game, team members had an old-fashioned cheer for Sanford and for field hockey. As the shirts indicate, the team’s STILL GOT IT in spirit…but a few are a bit over the hill in endurance.
Sanford Lifer Gail Nichols Clarke ‘55 (center) shares her memories of early Sanford years with husband Paul ‘56 and Janet Lowery ‘55.
and Marty
the
A few years ago, Yanko and Mitzi Cajnar sponsored the structure’s restoration.
Domenic DiUbaldo ‘94 (right) and Sanford Third Grade Teacher Christine DiUbaldo took the Grande Tour with their children, Dom and Sophia.
Martina Cajnar Crompton ‘74 (right)
Perkins ‘73AA relax on
Old Wishing Well.
Sanford Alumni Notes Sanford Alumni Notes
Grace Caley Feist ‘45 was hoping to make the 75th anniversary, which coincided with her 60th wedding anniversary and the end of World War II, both in 1945. She says, “Alas, it wasn’t to be.” Since leaving Sanford and Ohio State University, Grace told us, “I have taught art, edited a three-county farm paper, raised three sons, and one granddaughter after the death of her father (our youngest son), and restored an 1846 house. Days are now spent catching up on all those books I never had time to read!”
Jon Bjornson ‘50 is retired. His various interests include three grandchildren, photography, and sculpture. Jon is active in Veteran Peace groups including Vietnam Veterans Against the War and Veterans for Peace. He also is active in national and local politics. Although retired, Jon still does minimal, pro bono psychiatric work.
Bob Hemphill ‘53 tells us he is enjoying his retirement working in his new woodworking shop. He says, “My thanks to Yanko for teaching me so many years ago.”
Class of 1957 . 48th Reunion
reported
by Helen Yates Heron ‘57
“Forty-eight years ago the Class of 1957 spent their senior week in Williamsburg, VA. We started our trip by staying in Washington, DC, overnight. We visited the Russian Embassy as well as other tourist attractions. It was the time of the Russian space accomplishments. We also saw Manassas battlefield, Richmond, and Williamsburg. This year, nine ‘57 graduates and their spouses revisited Virginia. Thanks to the generosity of Dot (Stewart) ‘57 and Donald Gray we were able to stay in their time-share for a week at no cost to the Class of ‘57. We took turns cooking breakfast for each other. Then we took off for the tourist attractions. We were treated by C.E.O. class member, Sue Webb ‘57 to a wonderful dinner at the Williamsburg Inn. We probably appreciated the history of Williamsburg even more this time. I know I appreciated our time together! Our future plans for a 50th reunion are planned for September 28-29, 2007. We hope the rest of our class will join us for this special event in Hockessin, DE. Those attending this year’s event were: Dorothy Stewart Gray ‘57 and Don, Patricia Crossan Martin ‘57, Bill ‘57 andNancy Jo Pepper, Rev. Dave ‘57 and Katrina Cakste Wilson ‘57, Jim ‘57 andLennie Davis, Bill ‘57 andAnita Hildebrandt, Helen Yates Heron ‘57, Sue Webb ‘57 andfinally Ben ‘58 andCandy Wilson. A friend of Sue Webb’s, Shorty, also joined our group.
Karen Williams Thalheimer ‘67 told us she has been battling breast cancer for the past year and a half. Karen says, “After chemotherapy, a double mastectomy, and radiation I think I’m winning. (Anything that isn’t a setback is, by definition, a win!)
Plus I get to know ALL my docs on a first name basis. Yeah!”
Debbie Foster Provenzano ‘69 wrote to say all is well in Oregon, although, too much heat, lately for the Willamette Valley. Ron now works in the Oregon State University Chemistry Department as a lab assistant. Debbie says, “Unfortunately, I am between jobs, looking for an administrative assistant position. Anybody hiring?” She sends the best to all the gang from the Class of ‘69.
Claire Findorff Halverson ‘70 wrote to tell us it’s been a difficult year for her due to the passing of her sister, right before her sister’s 56th birthday. On the bright side, Claire’s daughter, Karen, turned 27 years old on Nov. 2nd. She enjoys exercising and going to sporting events with her boyfriend. Claire and Karen get together twice a month for eating out and shopping. Since joining Weight Watchers, Claire has lost 50 pounds. She stays busy with a Bible study class, water aerobics and a part-time job. Claire wishes everyone a Happy Holiday!
Philip Clarkson ‘74 told us that although he’s retired, he has been doing a lot of volunteer work and gardening. He also has been looking up old friends on the Internet.
Daniel Peck ‘74 has been living in Maryland for just over eight years now. He is working for Fairchild Semiconductor as a Sr. Global Account Manager dealing with three large Fairchild customers worldwide—Motorola, Black & Decker, and GE. Dan told us he spends a lot of time on airplanes. He has been married for almost 25 years and has two kids—Alex, 18, a freshman at Towson University and Tori, 15, a sophomore in high school.
Alex Schoen ‘75 went on to graduate from Penn State with a degree in Microbiology. He received an MBA in MIS from LaSalle. Alex then worked in a kidney transplant immunology lab for 5 years until he moved into information technology. Alex has been married since 1983 and has three daughters.
Sanford Alumni Notes Sanford Alumni Notes
Sallie Conner Rush ‘78 says, “All is well with the Conner family. Betsy ‘70 is on tour with Peter Pan, David ‘73 is teaching at the Avon Grove Charter School, and Andy ‘75 is working at Lincoln University. I have 2 children, Drew (10) and Grace (6). David has 1 child, Clark, who will be 16, and Andy has Jac, (James Andrew Conner III), who shares his birthday with my mother (March 26). My parents are well. My mother is still working at Avon Grove and my father is retired. We spend a lot of time with them in Fenwick Island in the summer. We always love to hear from, and run into, old friends from Sanford!”
Phil Mahan ‘81 moved his family to Pennsylvania in November 2004 for a lifestyle change, to take a programming job, and be closer to family. He’s also working part time as a paramedic. Phil says, “I couldn’t give that up completely.” His family is having fun living in Lancaster County!
Aurelia White ‘81AA says, “I went to England for 3 months and I must say: I had a time of it, understanding their chat, let alone the fact that I have never seen so much beer drinking and smoking since college days. Mashed peas and roast lamb were the food of the people.
Tea, it seemed, was anywhere from 3:00–5:00 PM. What we call one thing here is so not the same thing there. The petrol-gas is about is about $15 a gallon. The US dollar is worth less than half of the pound. But most of all ... they are still mad at us for WWII and 1776. I told them ... I’m sorry!”
Christian Herget ‘83 started in a new job in marketing for medical products and moved to Lyon, France in Fall 2005—again a time abroad with plenty of adventures ahead.
Reid Thomas Henry ‘89 told us that she was remarried in 2004 to David Henry. Reid is living in Maryland with her husband, her son, Hunter, who will be 4 years old in November, and daughter, Natalie, born in June 2005. Reid is currently working in the Advancement Office at Gunston Day School.
Seema Venkatachalam ‘91 has just completed residency at New York University in Obstetrics and Gynecology and accepted a position as Clinical Instructor in the Dept. of OB/GYN at Emory University. Seema also has just finished volunteering in Cameroon, Africa for 3 1/2 weeks in a maternity ward.
Brian Matthews ‘96 was promoted to Analyst at Brandes Investment Partners in San Diego earlier this year. In May, he became engaged to Susan Bernstein on a vacation trip they took to Hawaii. An October 2006 wedding in San Diego is planned.
Hello all!!
This is Dana McCauley, Class of 1999, writing to let everyone know what is new with me. I am still presently in school. Since I had a change of major I am practically starting over again. I am now going for dental hygiene. I had a lot going on at the time, when I was going to school for nursing, so it just did not work out for me. On July 2, 2005, while on vacation in Huntingdon, PA, I got engaged on Raystown Lake, it was AMAZING!! His name is James and he is currently working for the IBEW local 313, Electricians Union. The wedding is planned for October 14, 2006 at Newark Country Club.
After the engagement, we proceeded to buy a house in Newark. Keeping up with the wedding, the house, and school, life has been very hectic but going well!!
I hope all is well with everyone at Sanford; I can’t wait to visit.
Dana
Sarah Bowers ‘00 graduated from the University of Delaware with a BA in Health Behavior Management/Fitness Management. She is a varsity volleyball coach for Sanford and a substitute teacher. She is seeking full-time employment.
Justin Lareau ‘00 is now working in IT at EDO in Washington.
Katie Bowers ‘01 graduated Cum Laude from University of Delaware with a BA in Accounting/Economics. She works for KPMG one of the BIG 3 in the U.S.
Last spring Amy Pia ‘02 coached the JV lacrosse team at The Shipley School in Rosemont, PA. She is currently a senior at Cabrini College and will be coaching lacrosse this upcoming spring as well. Amy lives with her sister, Lisa, in a house in Rosemont, PA.
Lindsay Johnson ‘03 wrote to tell us she is currently a junior at York College of PA. She is majoring in Long Term Care Administration with a minor in Gerontology. After Lindsay graduates in 2007, she plans to go to DelTech to get a degree in Respiratory Therapy. She says, “Ultimately, I would like to do in-home care for post-operative and chronic heart/lung patients.”
SUBMIT ALUMNI NOTES TO:
Alumni Notes, Sanford School, P.O. Box 888, Hockessin, DE 19707-0888 or email: alumni@sanfordschool.org
Sanford Alumni Notes Sanford Alumni Notes
Jessica Spears Chronister ‘00 wrote: “Hello to all my friends at Sanford!
I just wanted to give a quick update to share some exciting changes in my life. I got married on June 11, 2005 to my Academy sweetheart, Casey Chronister from Yakima, WA. Caroline Johnston ‘00, my cousin Caitlin Cook ‘11 and of course my brother Ryan Spears ‘02 were in the bridal party. In attendance were (all the way from Los Angeles!) Rick Bente ‘00, Tina Falkenstein ‘00, John and Dede Johnston, Paul and Bryan Bente, and my cousins Jeff Terkula ‘06 and Sean Cook ‘06. It was a wonderful time to visit with family and friends, especially ones I had not seen in so long.
I am currently finishing my Master’s in Astronautical Engineering at the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) in Dayton, OH. My husband will graduate pilot training in January, and I will graduate in March. After that, the Air Force only knows where we’ll be stationed! I am staying involved in musical theater and have done shows at Wright State University and The Dayton Playhouse. I’m always thankful for my SRTC experience whenever I go to an audition. Well, that’s all the news for now. I hope my Sanford family is doing well—I always enjoy reading about the latest events in Sanford magazine! Take care.”
In Memoriam
Yanko Cajnar . 1915-2005
Age 90 of Hockessin, DE died peacefully on October 8, 2005 at his home.
Central to Mr. Cajnar’s life were his family and his Catholic faith. He loved the land of his birth, Slovenia. Yanko was very proud of his US citizenship, the country he has resided in since 1949. Mr. Cajnar was a master carpenter and an expert in landscape grooming. He was employed by Sanford School and at the time of his retirement was the longest serving member of the staff after 42 years. He pursued excellence in all that he did. This, his honesty, and kindness earned him great respect. It particularly endeared him to the boys of the school’s boarding school days to whom he had been a father figure. As recently as September 24, 2005, Sanford graduates of the 1950s, 60s and 70s stopped by to share memories and pay their respects. A 1956 graduate recently wrote, “I have never forgotten that man. A quiet mountain.” One of Mr. Cajnar’s greatest joys in life was doing things for others. Recognizing his dedication, the school honored him with a brass plaque at the YANKO CAJNAR BRIDGE at the south end of Chapel Valley. The Sanford Alumni Association in 1997 honored Mr. Cajnar by presenting him with the Alumni Award. He was a life member of St. Mary of the Assumption Church. Mr. Cajnar is survived by his deeply beloved wife of 53 years, Maria Cajnar. He will be dearly missed by his two daughters and their husbands, Martina Cajnar ‘77 and Albert Crompton of Elkton, MD and Hedwig Annie ‘77 and Larry Lester of St. Georges, DE. Yanko is also survived by his three grandchildren, Hans Crompton ‘10, Alexander Lester and Michael Lester; by his nieces, Mary Reder and Stephanie Krywko and their families, all of DE; and nieces and nephews in Slovenia. He was preceded in death by his only son, Hans Thomas Cajnar ‘67, and eight brothers and sisters.
“We, the immediate family cannot find words enough to say, ‘Thank You’ to all, for the 57 wonderful years Yanko had at Sanford.”
Call
for Submissions
The extraordinary life of Yanko Cajnar will be featured in a forthcoming Sanford publication. We invite you, Sanford alumni, Sanford colleagues, and other friends to contribute to this article by sending your memories of, thoughts about, and photographs of Yanko to: pittsj@sanfordschool.org OR Mrs. Maria Cajnar
Sanford School
P.O. Box 888
Hockessin, DE 19707
Jay Morie ‘55, Frank Pusey ‘54, and Lee Crowther Reynolds ‘54 (shown left to right) paid their respects to the Cajnar family, following the funeral service, in the Sanford dining hall, as did other alumni who were able to attend.
Maria Cajnar accepts kind and thoughtful words from Frank Delle Donne (left, Sanford art teacher in the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s) and Sanford Head of School Douglas W. MacKelcan, Jr.
Maria Cajnar’s favorite photo of Yanko was taken shortly after he arrived at Sanford
In Memoriam continued...
We extend our deepest sympathy to families and friends of these members of the Sanford community.
Barry Rudnick ‘71, a devoted husband, son, brother, and friend, passed away unexpectedly on September 1, 2005. He was born August 31, 1953 in Wilmington, DE to Joseph and Wilma Rudnick. Barry was well known in Wilmington and Galena, MD for the many auctions he did for local charities. He did many other auctions jointly with his father, Joe, and uncle, Frank, in Galena, MD at Harry Rudnick & Sons, Inc. He also conducted all the sheriff sales for New Castle County, as well as for Goodwill Industries in Wilmington and S&S Auctions in NJ. Barry was a licensed realtor and broker for many years and was most recently affiliated with Remax Associates. Barry graduated from Sanford School and the University of Miami, where he was on the water skiing team. He married his wife, Linda, in 1991, and enjoyed many years of travel and trips with her to Las Vegas, NV, Bermuda, and on numerous cruises. Among his most favorite things were his collection of classic cars, his love of a good buffet (or meal of any kind), he and his wife Linda’s getaway home at the beach, and his good buddy—his dog, Max. Barry was well loved by his friends and family and will be missed greatly.
Bryan “Pee Wee” Eckman ‘04, age 20 of Kennett Square, PA died Saturday, August 11, 2005, at Chester County Hospital. Born in Chester, PA, he was the son of Dr. P. Randall Eckman and Linda Tack Eckman of Kennett Square, PA. Bryan graduated from Sanford School in 2004, where he had been on the basketball team that won the 2002 Delaware State Championship. Bryan was currently a sophomore at Millersville University in Millersville, PA. He was a tenderhearted and caring athlete and loyal friend. He enjoyed summertime on the Chesapeake Bay. In addition to his parents, he is survived by a brother, Philip R. Eckman, Jr. ‘02, of the University of Maryland Dental School in Baltimore, MD; a sister, Christine Nicole “Chrissy” Eckman, at home; paternal grandfather, Lester W. Eckman of North East, MD; maternal grandparents, Edwin Van Dyke Tack and Evelyn Bivens Tack, of Sebring, FL; and maternal great grandmother, Emma Henry Bivens of McConnellsburg, PA.
Send us your news about your job, travel, weddings, births, schooling, visits with friends, etc., for the next issue of SANFORD magazine. You may also use this form for any name or address changes. Please print the information below, then cut out the form, and mail it to Sanford School, P.O. Box 888, Hockessin, DE 19707-0888
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A message from Nancy Sawin’s Family
In early summer, Nancy sustained a bad fall in her home on Sawin Lane and was admitted to Christiana Hospital. Following her recuperation, Nancy’s closest family and friends determined that for Nancy’s health and safety, she should take up residence at Hockessin Hills (a skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility) and not return to her home. Nancy is doing fine, and she loves to get cards and letters from everyone at Sanford. Nancy’s address is: Hockessin Hills, 6525 Lancaster Pike, Hockessin, DE 19707
The family requests fervently that Sanford’s alumni, faculty, administrators, staff members, and students not call or visit Nancy.
Sanford School’s campus is one of the most beautiful among primary and secondary schools in America. This photo of the Quad was taken in the autumn of 2005 from the Tower steps of Stephen May Hall. Many species of trees and bushes give color and texture to the beauty of the Quad which is used daily by students passing from building to building and for special occasions including All-School gatherings and graduation ceremonies.
