Hello summer Breck’s campus is full of joy as students send off the 2023–24 school year.
Boys basketball wins state 16. Admissions space reimagined 22.
What’s in Chris Ohm’s office? 44.
Summer 2024
Today at Breck is a publication of Breck School.
123 Ottawa Ave. N.
Golden Valley, MN 55422
Email communications@breckschool.org
Head of School
Natalia R. Hernández, Ed.D.
Chief Advancement Officer
Stacy Glaus
Editor and Chief Writer
Rosie Moroney
Designer Abby Terrell
Chief Photographer
Isaiah Rustad
Contributing Writer
Rich Mattera
Contributing Photographers
Alicia Korpi
Karyl Rice
Slow Road Photo
Brian Sobas
Molly Weibel,
1000 Words Photography-MN
Communications Coordinator
Kelli Frederickson
Printer
First Impression Group
On this page: Members of the Class of 2024 on the Chapel Green tossing their caps after Commencement on June 4, 2024.
On the cover: Charlie R. ‘36 enjoys bubbles at the beloved kindergarten “Water Day” celebration in May.
Breck School is an Episcopal, independent, college-preparatory day school enrolling students of diverse backgrounds in grades preschool through twelve.
Mission
We create confident learners who lead lives of intellectual curiosity, self-knowledge, and social responsibility.
Core
Values
Compassion: Honor the dignity of all human beings
Excellence: Strive with integrity for the highest standards.
Inclusivity: Foster a just and welcoming community.
Respect: Value each other's unique talents, spirit, and potential.
In this issue
SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS
History made
Breck boys basketball wins the state championship title for the first time in school history.
FEATURE
Welcome to Breck
The newly renovated Admissions space introduces prospective families to who we are and who we aspire to be.
FEATURE
Student success
Five graduating seniors share how Breck helped nurture their interests and set them up to succeed in school — and life — beyond Breck.
WHERE ARE THEY NOW
Blazing your own trail
Minneapolis Fire Department Chief Bryan Tyner ’86 believes Breck prepares students to do anything.
From the Head of School
20 Questions with Tao M. ’28, Catherine Pearson, and Cristina Baker ’92
Mustang Moments
Program Highlight: May Program
Division Highlight: Lower School Brain Awareness Week
Winter and Spring Sports
What’s In Your Office?:
Chris Ohm, Assistant Director of the Upper School, Dean
Alumni Class Notes and In Memoriam
Alumni Spotlight: Marielos Cabrera ’13
In Their Own Words: Rich Mattera
On this page: Lower School students playing games during Field Day this spring.
From the Head of School
Dear Breck community,
This spring, we finished out the 2023–24 school year with some of the most incredible closing experiences ever witnessed during my tenure at Breck, most notably our Baccalaureate and Commencement for the Class of 2024. During these ceremonies, we lifted up the voices of our students and urged them to reflect on their Breck story — how their teachers, friends, and learning experiences have shaped them into the people they are today and the people they hope to become.
Throughout this summer issue of the Today at Breck magazine, we are honored to share a few Breck stories with you: stories of how our students use their actions to demonstrate who they are and how they do good in this world; stories of how our community has come together in extraordinary ways; and stories of how our alumni — like Bryan Tyner ’86, fire chief of the Minneapolis Fire Department, and infectious disease doctor Cristina Baker ’92 — are living out Breck’s mission and values beyond our walls.
In closing, I would like to share a passage from my Commencement address to the Class of 2024 because it encapsulates some of the many reasons I am proud to lead the Breck community:
“Your time at Breck has shaped you in ways that you are not even aware of yet. As you move forward in your lives, you
will value even more than you do today that you grew and learned in a place where you prayed together with people who held widely different beliefs and faith traditions. You will appreciate that you played, performed, and created alongside athletes and artists of varying talents, abilities, and interests. In fact, if you do not actively seek out future opportunities to do these things with people different from you, you might not have a chance like this again.
At Breck, you were taught to believe in the power of ‘yet’ and that true excellence comes only through effort that is made with integrity. Here, you grew in a place that, although imperfect, was founded in tradition that believes in compassion and that we are called to honor the dignity of all human beings.”
Congratulations to the class of 2024 and to all the students, families, faculty, and staff who made this an unforgettable year. B
Warmly,
Natalia R. Hernández, Ed.D. Head of School
Middle School students canoeing on campus this spring during an outdoor education class.
20 Questions with
Tao M. ’28 Grade 8 Student
What’s your dream job? To become a pro soccer player. Getting paid while playing my favorite sport would be great. 1
What music are you listening to lately? A bit of everything here and there. Anything from Kanye to Mozart.
What’s one of the last books you read? I just finished Catching Fire, the second in the Hunger Games series. I hope the third book is just as good.
What’s your favorite time of year?
The winter because Christmas, my favorite holiday, happens during this season. I also enjoy going skiing and drinking hot chocolate.
What’s one of the most adventurous things you’ve ever done? I haven’t done anything crazy yet, but snorkeling during the Breck Catalina Island trip was the most fun and adventurous thing I’ve done.
What is your favorite Breck lunch? The crispy chicken sandwiches. I always end up eating like three or four of them.
What’s one of the best decisions you’ve ever made? Signing up for soccer in sixth grade. It not only helped me get back into shape, but it also allowed me to build friendships that I otherwise wouldn’t have.
What advice would you give to your younger self? I would advise myself to go into more uncomfortable situations to increase my comfort zone.
What do you remember from kindergarten? I remember the very first day. After my dad dropped me off, I cried for a while thinking about how I would have to do this every day for the next 13 years.
What is the most important room in your home? It’s a tie between my bedroom and the kitchen. I always enjoy eating food, but my bedroom is where I win all my games of Fortnite
What’s your favorite place on the Breck campus? I like Ottawa field because that’s where my friends and I are able to play different games with each other.
Favorite comfort food? I always feel better after a nice bowl of mac and cheese.
Favorite treat: salty or sweet?
Definitely sweet. I would never turn down a big bowl of pistachio ice cream.
If you had a theme song, what would it be? “Hall of Fame” by The Script.
Favorite line from a movie? “Hakuna Matata! It means no worries, for the rest of your days.” —Timon, The Lion King
Favorite family tradition? Going down to Texas to visit my aunt and uncle. Seeing them and their five pets is always fun.
Three people — living or dead — you’d want to have dinner with? Leonardo da Vinci, Albert Einstein, and Cristiano Ronaldo.
If you could travel anywhere, where would you go? I’ve always wanted to visit Japan because I keep seeing all this deliciouslooking food on shows which really makes me want to try it.
What’s your pet peeve? It really bugs me when people offer me advice or criticism without being asked, even if it’s well intentioned.
What keeps you up at night?
Seasonal allergies. Itching my eyes every three minutes is a pain, and getting a stuffed nose is even more annoying. That’s why spring is my least favorite season! B
20 Questions with Catherine Pearson Innovation Specialist
What music are you listening to lately? A little bit of everything — Beyoncé, Leon Bridges, Taylor Swift, Lake Street Dive.
What’s one of the last books you read? Solito by Javier Zomoro, which was recommended to me by one of my students (thanks, Elizabeth S.!).
What’s your favorite time of year? Summertime. I love gardening and spending as much time as possible outside — preferably in or near the water.
What’s one of the most adventurous things you’ve ever done? Either scuba diving or driving a scooter through Lisbon with no map or smartphone to help me navigate.
What is your favorite Breck lunch? I love the soups made by the wonderful dining services team. The roasted broccoli and green beans are also delicious, and I always have seconds.
What’s your dream job? If there was a world where I wasn’t working in education, I’d either want to be an automotive journalist or own a flower farm and garden shop.
What advice would you give to your younger self? Be confident to speak your mind and stand up for what you believe.
What do you remember from kindergarten? My kindergarten was half-day, and I was a PM kid. I think this still explains a lot about me: I don’t love mornings, and I really hit my stride by midafternoon! I remember it was a big deal when we learned to tie our shoelaces, and our classroom had a loft which I thought was cool.
What is the most important room in your home? I love our front porch. You can usually find me out there with family and friends when the weather is nice. There is nothing better than a cup of coffee and a book on the porch swing.
What’s your favorite place on the Breck campus? Salas Commons. I love the sunlight and knowing you will always cross paths with students and colleagues.
Favorite comfort food? @grossypelosi’s vodka “sawce” over rigatoni served with my husband’s focaccia (the recipe he baked on our wedding day!).
Favorite line from a movie? “Florals? For spring. Groundbreaking.” —Miranda Priestly, The Devil Wears Prada Favorite family tradition? My family celebrates Christmas, and I love decorating the tree with all the ornaments we’ve collected throughout the years.
Three people — living or dead — you’d want to have dinner with? Ina Garten, Tina Fey, and Dolly Parton.
If you could travel anywhere, where would you go? It is my dream to go to every Grand Slam tournament — maybe RolandGarros or the Australian Open will be next?
What’s your pet peeve? Persistent negativity.
What keeps you up at night? Reading. I lose track of time, and next thing I know it’s midnight on a school night. B
This winter, Pearson was named a 2024 Morehead-Cane Impact Educator, a global recognition of K–12 educators who have made an outstanding impact on young leaders.
Favorite treat: salty or sweet? Both! Please don’t make me choose. If you had a theme song, what would it be? “Wonderwall” by Oasis (a nod to MNUFC). 7
What’s one of the best decisions you’ve ever made? Finding the time to play tennis is always a good decision. I never regret time on the court.
20 Questions with Cristina Baker ‘92
Infectious Diseases Physician, Senior Director of Medical Affairs, Cepheid
What music are you listening to lately? I’m more of a the New York Times The Daily podcast kind of gal. For music, it’s whatever the teenage DJs in the car are playing.
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What’s one of the last books you read? The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store by James McBride. I’m now in the middle of The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese.
What’s your favorite time of year? Summer in Minnesota. I love the long days and the energy in the air. It’s as if everyone wants to cram a full year of fun into three months.
What’s one of the most adventurous things you’ve ever done? Exploring Jinlong Cave, the longest underground river in Guangzhou, China. Picture the end of the movie The Goonies without the pirate ship but complete with the water slide carved into the cave wall.
What was your favorite Breck lunch? My kids Caroline ’29 and Oliver ’26 think the Breck dining staff should be given a James Beard award for their Italian dunkers. What’s your dream job? To do something that gives me the opportunity to impact human health on a greater scale.
What’s one of the best decisions you’ve ever made? My husband and I deferred our admissions to law and medical school for a year. We worked to save as much money as we could and backpacked through India and Southeast Asia. What advice would you give to your younger self? Strive for balance, have high expectations, and be kind to yourself.
What do you remember from kindergarten? I remember sitting on the big circle painted on the floor in the center of my classroom. On my first day of medical school, I was reunited with three classmates from kindergarten!
What is the most important room in your home? The kitchen. I love to cook, and nothing is better than having family and friends gathered around the kitchen counter eating and laughing.
What’s your favorite place on the Breck campus? The chapel. It’s the heart of the school and the place where the most memorable events are celebrated. It’s also where my husband and I were married by Father Bellaimey! Favorite comfort food? Chocolate chip cookies. I’m actually on a personal quest to find the perfect chocolate chip cookie.
Favorite treat: salty or sweet? Sweet but with a little sea salt on top. Again, cue the perfect chocolate chip cookie.
If you had a theme song, what would it be? “You Gotta Be” by Des’ree.
Favorite line from a movie? “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” —Ferris Bueller, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off
Favorite family tradition? After a day of traveling, we share our thoughts. It’s really inspiring to hear the different perspectives my kids share about their experiences in new countries and cultures.
Three people — living or dead — you’d want to have dinner with? Louis Pasteur, the 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet, and Oprah Winfrey.
If you could travel anywhere, where would you go? Bhutan to see the monasteries on the Trans-Bhutan Trail.
What’s your pet peeve? Being late. My dad always taught me to be five minutes early for everything. What keeps you up at night? Bats, bugs, undercooked food, and pandemics…I know just a little too much about infectious diseases. B
MUSTANG MOMENTS
Learning and growing
Breck’s spring 2024 semester in photos
1. Lower School students viewing the solar eclipse in April. 2. Middle School students in the spring production of Matilda JR 3. Upper School students in the Organics at Breck course during May Program. 4. Middle School students on the climbing wall during Project Adventure. 5. Students performing during the annual Native American Gathering. 6. The Middle and Upper School Orchestra performing at their spring concert, conducted by orchestra teacher Claudette Laureano. 7. Faculty, students, and families learning at Culture and Community Night. 8. First grade students “flying” from island to island during Island Adventure this spring. 9. Blake L. ’28 giving his eighth grade speech during the Middle School closing. 10. Fourth grade students at their end-of-year celebration, Seeds of Change. 11. Preschool students having fun during Bubble Day in May.
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PROGRAM HIGHLIGHT
Curiosity beyond the classroom
With the freedom to pursue unique courses and experiences, Upper School students thrive during May Program.
As a junior, Henry G. ’24 traveled to Singapore with his Chinese-language classmates. Now a graduating senior reflecting on his 14 years at the school, Henry considers that trip a cornerstone of his Breck experience.
“Singapore was probably the best trip I’ve ever been on,” he says. “We learned about cultural intelligence — the connections between our cultures and how we fit in in a global sense. It’s such a different experience when you’re traveling with your friends and you’re all learning together. It was amazing.”
Henry’s experience in Singapore was part of Breck’s May Program — an innovative, 12-day program that offers an expansive array of experiential learning, internships, and travel opportunities for Upper School students. During
two six-day sessions, grades 9 and 10 students pursue condensed STEM, humanities, and elective courses led by faculty on campus; grades 10 and 11 students go on trips or take on off-campus internships in areas they are passionate about, from business to medicine to education — sometimes even shadowing Breck alums and current parents.
On-campus courses range from subjects like ACT math or reading of The Great Gatsby, to courses on sourdough bread making, beekeeping, and more. There are also courses, like state parks and small towns, museums 101, and bouldering, that put field trips at the center of the curriculum, extending the classroom beyond our campus to the greater Twin Cities area.
“During May Program, teachers are able to teach something they are passionate about that may or may not be in their field,” says Jessica Wanless, Upper School dean.
Like Henry, students appreciate the opportunity to travel domestically and internationally during May Program. Trips vary year to year, but students have traveled with Breck faculty to the Boundary Waters, China, France, Mexico, Canada, Spain, and more.
Allowing Upper School students to spend the final weeks of each school year in this way is unique to Breck and helps prepare them for a meaningful life beyond our campus walls.
“It gives students opportunities to grow outside their comfort zone and explore the world and who they are in it,” says Wanless. “It’s really about the intrinsic joy of learning.”
While the COVID-19 pandemic halted May Program, it allowed the Upper School team to reevaluate why this programming is so important and in what ways they hope it can grow.
“COVID definitely allowed us time to figure out what we value,” says Wanless. “I think we’re on a path to shift this program so that it really underpins who we are as a school and in a way that is student centered. May Program is very much mission aligned.” B
DIVISION HIGHLIGHT
Cerebral celebration
Lower School students embrace brain science during the school’s first Brain Awareness Week.
Neuroplasticity. Metacognition. Neural pathways. These aren’t just terms used by neuroscientists — you hear them regularly within Breck Lower School classrooms.
While brain parts and functions, brain health, and concepts like growth mindset, the “power of yet,” and the “learning pit” are familiar to Lower School students, teachers put a special emphasis on learning and the brain during the division’s inaugural Brain Awareness Week from March 11–17. The event was led by Lisa Hunninghake, 2024 faculty research fellow for the Peter Clark Center (PCC) for Mind, Brain, and Education.
The theme of Brain Awareness Week this year was “The Changing Brain,” and students were encouraged to think about how their brains change, what can make them change, and why they might change. Hunninghake provided classroom activities and brain breaks that focused on taking care of our brains and how our thinking helps with our learning. There was also a brain-focused book display in the library and even “brainy” food samplings in the dining room.
Participating in the global Brain Awareness Week had long been a goal of Hunninghake’s. As the PCC faculty research fellow this year, she was finally able to make it happen. “I have had the opportunity to help spread information and resources for teachers who don’t always have time to do so,” she says. “It has been just a dream to step out and do all these things that I’m very passionate about.”
With a first successful recognition of Brain Awareness Week under her belt, Hunninghake is already planning for next year and beyond: “It would be cool to have a neurologist actually talk about the brain or even get someone who does research to come in,” she says. “There are so many fun things we can do.” B
Winter/Spring Sports 2024
The starting five
Breck boys basketball won the state championship for the first time in school history. The five starters — DeAngelo D. ’26, Daniel F. ’24, Hanif M. ’24, JP M. ’26, and Miles N. ’25 — relive the unforgettable moments on the road to victory.
The final buzzer in the state championship game is a sound the Breck boys basketball team will remember for the rest of their lives. They had dreamed about it all season — and for some, even longer than that.
“Winning a state championship had always been a dream of mine since I was a young kid,” says Hanif M. ’24. “Being able to win was a dream come true.”
Winning a state championship is an incredible accomplishment in and of itself. But winning a state championship for the first time in school history is an achievement few athletes ever get to experience.
“It felt amazing to do something that had never been done before,” says Daniel F. ’24. “It felt like we did it for the whole school.”
Championship in three words: DeAngelo: Work paid off Daniel: Splendid, satisfactory, marvelous
“Being Breck's first-ever basketball state title is special. It was such a surreal moment when the final buzzer sounded, realizing all our hard work had paid off,” Miles N. ’25 shares. “It is a once-in-a-lifetime feeling people get to experience, and I am never going to forget it.”
A lot of teams think they have the drive, the skills, and the synergy to win it all. But how was this Breck team able to actually make it happen?
“We put our mind to it,” says DeAngelo D. ’26. “From the start of the season to the end, all the little details mattered for us. Cutting corners wasn’t our thing. Our relationships off the court played a huge role in it, too. We all knew each other so well it was like another thing we were doing as friends — but just more competitive.”
That sentiment resonates with JP M. ’26, too: “I think our team was able to find a lot of success this year because of our strong friendships on and off the court as well as the team having the mentality that if we work hard, we’re the best team in the state, regardless of class.”
Daniel will go on to play at University of Wisconsin–Madison next year, and Hanif will play at St. Cloud State. But three of the starting five will return to the court for another season — with a repeat title in sight. With the success of this season under their belt, who’s to say they couldn’t do it again? B
Season stats
31-1-0
Season record #1 in the Independent Metro Athletic Conference
91-74
Final score in the Class 2A, Section 5 championship against Minneapolis North 76-72
Final score in the Class 2A State championship against Lake City 80% of the starting five averaged double digits in points per game
To view the full team roster and season scores, scan here:
Hanif: Pride, relief, happiness
JP: Special, unforgettable, victorious
Miles: Unreal, brotherhood, historic
Breaking 140
Girls gymnastics banded together to achieve the coveted score that won them the section championship and sent them to state for the first time since 2014.
It began as a joke, gymnastics captain senior Meghan M. ’24 explains. “The whole season we were like, ‘We’re going to state; trust me, we’re gonna go to state.’ But it wasn’t completely serious.”
As the season progressed, the team kept getting better and better. And by the section meet, it felt like less of a joke and more of a possibility. However, when their name was called as winners of the section meet, qualifying them for the state meet, it wasn’t the top slot that surprised them most. It was their score: 140.
“140 is a big number,” she says. “The good teams break 140. Once we broke 140, we were like, ‘we’re not out of place [going to the state meet].’ We deserve to be here. It was almost like a validation.”
Gymnastics isn’t typically thought of as a team sport. But for the Mustangs this year, it was. Coming together to focus on their team score rather than just their individual accomplishments is what ultimately helped them achieve success this season, Meghan believes.
“That’s not something you get on a lot of gymnastics teams because a lot of times girls are focused on their own scores, which is fine. Gymnastics is so individual and you compete individually,” she says. “But trying to make our team score better was a big thing this year. I think it brought us together to feel like we all created something together.”
While the team ended up getting sixth place at the state meet, the pride in being able to compete at the highest level was unmatched. "Just getting to experience it was what the goal was," says Meghan. B
8th time’s the charm
How does the Breck/Blake boys swim and dive team keep winning the state championship again and again?
The Breck/Blake swim team is unstoppable. Year after year, they show up in the pool, swimming faster and practicing harder. This season, with their eighth straight state championship, they broke a 60-year record for most consecutive state titles. But how do they do it? Through their strong team culture cultivated by Breck head coaches Michelle Carlson and Brian Wright. B
“We focus so much on the process that when those accolades do come, they are that much sweeter. Mindset is my cup of tea. We don’t want them to focus on the process of swimming the perfect swim, because there is no perfect swim. It’s the mental piece and the process of being focused and knowing what to do when they need to go fast, what button on their internal ‘race machine’ to press.
WHEN [THE SWIMMERS ARE] IN THAT POOL, THEY’RE THEIR TRUE SELVES. THEY CAN BE WHO THEY REALLY WANT TO BE.”
Michelle Carlson, who joined the boys swim and dive coaching staff in 2009 and became co-head coach in 2018. Carlson has also been a Lower School physical education teacher at Breck since 2007.
“Humble excellence is kind of how we go about our business. We never show that we’re too excited about a big race, and we never show that we’re too down about a bad race. We stay in the water until everyone’s done, and we high five our opponents when we get out.
THE SECRET SAUCE IS THAT WE’RE PROCESS DRIVEN. AND EVERYONE BUYS INTO IT.”
—Brian Wright, who started at Breck in 2007 as an Upper School science teacher and boys swim and dive assistant coach. He became co-head coach with Carlson in 2018.
Building a legacy
New Head Coach Sam Adey has big dreams for the girls lacrosse program.
When Sam Adey and her family relocated to the Twin Cities last year, the Breck community not only gained a top-notch educator but also a lacrosse powerhouse. The history department chair and girls lacrosse head coach, Adey came to Breck by way of the University School of Milwaukee, where, over 14 years, she built an outstanding girls lacrosse program — one that won multiple state championships and earned Adey the title of Wisconsin Coach of the Year in 2021 from USA Lacrosse.
A former D1 lacrosse player at Lehigh University, Adey is putting in the work to mold Breck’s growing girls lacrosse program into something of note. “I like to build successful programs, and I think I have a track record of doing that,” she says. But Adey knows that doesn’t happen overnight.
“I know it takes time, it takes effort, and it takes buy-in. But Breck is supportive of these efforts,” she says. “My players are working really hard to be successful both individually and as a program. I think it’s always a challenge when you have new systems, but we are getting better every day.”
While Adey describes herself as a competitive person and someone who likes to win, the number of wins or losses is not her benchmark of success. “I really hope that [my players] improve as humans and as lacrosse players. To me, that is the measure of a successful season,” she says.
The girls lacrosse program is definitely one to watch with Adey at the helm. “I love lacrosse and love being around it,” she says. “I want to hopefully pass on my passion and my excitement about the sport to other people.” B
MIDDLE SCHOOL MUSTANGS
One program
Interest in girls lacrosse has only continued to grow in Middle School.
Head Coach Sam Adey’s vision for Breck girls lacrosse extends beyond just the varsity squad — all the way to Middle School. The MS girls lacrosse program has grown exponentially in recent years, and Adey is excited about that growth for the future of the entire lacrosse program. In 2022, the program had just three girls. By 2023, it had jumped to 15. This past season, there were 24 girls who participated.
“I see myself as not just the varsity head coach but a program head. It’s my job to cultivate a strong Middle School program, and I’m passionate about having Middle Schoolers play,” she says. “I think having that feeder program into the Upper School is really integral to building a strong varsity program.” B
MIDDLE SCHOOL MUSTANGS
Community on the court
Longtime Middle School boys basketball coach Ricardo Solomon may have retired from his day job, but the end of his Mustang coaching career is nowhere in sight.
What do you love about coaching basketball at Breck?
Coaching has always been a passion of mine. It provides an opportunity for me to communicate with young people, get to know them, and help them hone their skills. I also get to help teach them how to be great people and good teammates. I started coaching at Breck in 2009. The community is really supportive, and the kids are special. They are really good kids and truly care about each other. There’s a sense of community that revolves around mutual respect and support. And that’s what I like about coaching here.
What kind of coach are you?
Some athletes might say I can be kind of intense. I coach with passion. I really do. I offer them a lot of encouragement when they’re out there, and I also expect a lot. I hope the passion that I bring can encourage young people to be the best they can be.
You are retiring from your day job this year but continuing to coach at Breck. Why?
For 35 years I’ve worked in health and human services — from child protection, to mental health, to probation, to parole — and right now I’m a supervisor in the Department of Community Corrections within Hennepin County. I’m passionate about helping people, and I’m passionate about helping our community become better. But it’s very challenging work. I’ve always used basketball and athletics as a means of finding balance in my life. So in my retirement, I’m going to pare down some things in my life. But the things I enjoy most — like coaching — I’ll keep close. B
Welcome
Welcome to Breck
The newly renovated Admissions space introduces prospective families to who we are and who we aspire to be.
Since Breck moved to the Golden Valley campus in 1981, the Admissions Team never sat all together — until now. In January 2024, the newly renovated Admissions office suite opened after a year of fundraising, planning, and construction.
The space feels modern, open, and bright — with higher ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows looking out into the reconfigured courtyard, and updated furnishings and wall treatments. It also still feels like Breck, with Mustang-proud blue and gold furniture and Salas Commons and the Chapel Green in view.
“It’s professional looking and has lots of natural light,” says Scott Wade, director of admissions and financial aid. “I think that helps say, ‘We strive to uphold the highest standards and this space is just the beginning of your Breck journey.’”
This updated space will only continue to elevate the work of the already high-performing Admissions Team — and will help the school demonstrate to new Mustangs and their families who Breck is today and who we hope to be in the future.
“It sets a very positive tone for your admissions experience — and that matters,” says Wade.
Alongside photos of the new space, read on to learn more about what the scope of the project was, who will benefit from the renovation, and how this project came to life.
WHAT?
Breck partnered with Mortenson to do a full gut renovation of 2400 square feet in addition to a 600 square feet expansion into the interior courtyard. The area was part of the 1956 construction of the original Golden Valley High School — making it some of the oldest spaces on campus. From feasibility study to completion of construction, the project took one year.
“We wanted to build off of the existing bones and make it look like it was part of the original design,” says Mike Thorson, director of facilities. “We used Salas Commons as our inspiration, which was renovated in 2005. The design intent was to capture as much natural light as possible.”
This was the first major construction project in the school in more than a decade.
“It’s a testament to our ability to take the existing bones of a structure and sustainably renovate it,” says Thorson. “It shows we can program the space appropriately and make it a useful and beautiful space.”
WHO?
The new space houses Breck’s Admissions and Financial Aid Team, the Chief Academic and Innovation Officer, and the Head of School’s Office. In addition, every single future Mustang and their family will make use of the new space as they apply, tour, and move through Breck’s admissions process.
The biggest impact of the space so far has been an increase in collaboration amongst the Admissions Team.
“Given that everybody’s here in one nice space, it’s allowed us to communicate more effectively with families,” says Wade. “If [Assistant Director of Admissions] Debi Becker is in a meeting with a Lower School family, and they have a question about Upper School, it’s super easy to knock on my door to get their questions answered.”
The newest group of admitted families was the first to experience an admissions cycle with the new space. And so far the impact has been noticeable. “Families articulate that it’s been really clear and really organized,” says Wade. “I think part of that is because of the new, central location.”
HOW?
Projects of this scope and magnitude require the investment of the community. The Admissions space renovation was made possible thanks to generous donors who worked in partnership with Head of School Natalia R. Hernández to bring the vision to life.
“Philanthropy powers big dreams,” says Stacy Glaus, chief advancement officer. “We have many needs across campus. It’s through the power of really committed donors who believe in
the school’s mission and work in partnership with our Head of School to move the needle in a big way and really elevate our spaces into something truly transformational.”
As our community continues to dream about what the future of our campus could look like, this project will serve as an example of what we can do when we come together to invest in our mission. “It’s philanthropy that’s going to move us from being a great school to a truly exceptional one,” Glaus says. B
Five
graduating seniors reflect on how Breck prepared them for their next steps.
Artists. Athletes. Mathematicians. Scientists. Performers. Engineers. The Class of 2024 is comprised of young adults with diverse interests, unique passions, and big dreams. At Breck, these students have worked hard, overcome challenges, and learned who they are as learners, leaders, and human beings — and they are poised to flourish in college and beyond.
The Class of 2024 is comprised of 98 students, who will attend 70 different colleges and universities next year. Five of these students — Noah G. ’24 , Catherine H. ’24 , Enrico P. ’24 , Ivy M. ’24 , and Andrew C. ’24 — share how Breck helped nurture their interests and set them up to succeed in school — and life — beyond Breck.
Noah G. ’24 will use the skills he’s built in robotics at Breck to study mechanical and aerospace engineering at Princeton University.
What do you love about robotics at Breck? I love robotics because of the culture. It’s a culture of independence and a hardworking spirit. Students are leading all the way through. It’s really great to see the drive that every student has — from a senior who’s done it for five years to a freshman who’s just starting out. That drive is kind of shared by everyone. I feel attached to the [robotics] program. It’s a place where I belong.
What I really love about Breck is the culture of people around you who are all working hard. And we all have each other’s backs. Everyone is always supporting each other, especially when you get into a team environment like robotics where everyone’s really dedicated towards a shared goal.
How did you choose what to study next year? I always knew I was going to do something in STEM. I’ve always liked math, and I’ve always liked science. The great thing that robotics taught me is I really like building and working in hands-on environments. I want to go into mechanical engineering so I can still use math and physics, but I can also have a chance to apply that knowledge to something real.
Attending: Princeton University in Princeton, New Jersey
Studying: Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps
Noah received the McCall Academic Award this year. As valedictorian, he delivered a speech at Commencement.
Why Princeton? I wanted to attend a school where there was a high level of academics, but I also wanted a place that gives students the opportunity to do their own research, do internships, and go out and explore. So that’s why I chose to go to Princeton. There’s an opportunity to do a senior thesis, and you have a senior project that’s independent.
One of the ways that I’m really trying to get hands-on is I’m also doing Naval ROTC. And so that’s an opportunity for me to go out and be able to apply the engineering skills in a real-world high pressure situation.
What are you most excited for next year? I’m really excited to take advantage of the broader opportunities college has to offer. Breck is a much smaller place, which has helped me find a space where I can feel comfortable. It’s taught me that I really love to go beyond and explore new opportunities. And so I’m really excited to take advantage of all these new opportunities that come when you go to college.
What do you enjoy about being part of Breck’s theater department? I started as a performer in fifth grade, and I got my first tech opportunity in late Middle School. Because we have such a small theater community, I’ve really been able to explore both tech and acting this year. We did something unique, too, where I performed in A Monster Calls as a technician operating this giant 10 foot tall puppet. I’ve had so many opportunities through the theater program. I think because it’s so close-knit, I’m able to pursue all my interests there.
In what ways has Breck encouraged and supported your many interests?
One thing I’ve really loved about Breck is the way that opportunities are readily available. For example, I wanted to do history research on quilts, so I went to the department chair and asked how I could do that. She put me in a class, and I got to write a really long research paper on quilts, which is something I really love. I wanted to learn costuming, so I went to the theater teacher and said I want to help with costuming. He then connected me with the woman who does our costumes. Now I go down and help with costumes for the multiple shows. All you have to do is ask, and there are so many people who are willing to help.
How has Breck prepared you for your next steps? Academically, I’ve been pushed to become a stronger writer, speaker, and thinker. Most of the classes I’ve taken you can’t take the easy way out. You really have to put in the work. I have had the opportunity to get to know my teachers on a one-toone level, and they have pushed me. And I think I’m a better student for it.
How did you know Hamilton College was the right place for you? Hamilton College has an open curriculum, and it’s liberal arts. I have a bunch of interests, and Breck allowed me to pursue all of them. I was really encouraged to go somewhere that I’d be able to keep exploring all my interests.
I’m excited to go to a new place because I’ve been here for 14 years — and I’ve loved it here. I really love the community, and I love the teachers. But I am really excited to meet new people and try new things.
Catherine H. ’24 will draw on her experiences in theater, art, and music at Breck while pursuing art history at Hamilton College.
Started at Breck: Preschool
Involved in: Theater, Swimming, BATO BATO!, Ars Nova, SLAP, Community Action Council
Attending: Hamilton College in Clinton, New York
Studying: Art History
How did you get involved in the Breck Investment Club? I had a passion for reading about finance and investing at a young age because that’s something my dad did. I learned a little bit about it, read some books, and then saw there weren’t any opportunities here at Breck. So I decided to start the club my freshman year, focusing more on financial literacy. We bring in speakers from different areas in finance, and we also have the opportunity to fundraise and have our own little investment portfolio. The ultimate goal of the portfolio is to bring some of the gains back into Breck in some way and use it here in our community.
In what other ways did Breck foster your interest in investing? For May Program, I got the opportunity to work at the Minnesota State Board of Investments. They manage all the different pension funds for firefighters, police workers, and public school teachers. It’s over $120 billion — so it’s a lot of money! I got to work with different teams there, and I actually got the chance to meet Governor Walz. It was an awesome opportunity that I had all because of this school and the connections I have here.
How did you know UChicago was the place for you? In addition to being interested in finance and investing, I took an economics class this year at Breck, which was also super interesting. That led me to want to study either economics or finance in college. Chicago has an awesome program for economics. It’s really well known, and it’s a really rigorous program and a very intellectual community where I could definitely push myself.
How did Breck prepare you for your next steps? In terms of academics, it’s super rigorous here. The teachers push you to not only learn the material but also engage in it in a way that you’re thinking critically. We’re not just looking into the past or reading things; we’re connecting them to our present and thinking about them in the context of today. I think that’s really important and something Breck does really well.
This community really made me into the person that I am today and really propelled me towards going to a great university.
Enrico P. ’24 grew his passion for finance and economics at Breck — and will continue to do so next year at University of Chicago.
Started at Breck: Eighth grade
Involved in: Breck Investment Club, Senior Class President, Tennis
Attending: University of Chicago in Chicago, Illinois
Studying: Business, Economics, and Data Science
Enrico was salutatorian and delivered the invocation at Commencement.
Ivy M. ’24 doesn’t know yet what she’ll study at Columbia University, but her research experiences at Breck will inform her decision.
Why Columbia? I didn’t know exactly what school I wanted to attend, but I knew I wanted to go somewhere that I could be proud of. Columbia has a core curriculum, so you have to take a lot of different interdisciplinary courses. That’s what I’ve always been really interested in, and that’s something I’ve gotten here as well that I hope to continue there. I’m looking to study either pure lab-based sciences and biology or I’m also interested in social sciences like sociology or psychology. It’s definitely hard to choose.
How did Breck help you develop passions for both areas of research? I participated in Advanced Science Research last year. My partner and I worked at the Lillehei Heart Institute with Dr. Michael Kyba at the University of Minnesota. The project that we did, we were in the lab every single day, nine to five — we were culturing cells and cell biology. It was definitely a really good experience.
Started at Breck: Eighth grade
Involved in: Advanced Science Research, Peter Clark Center for Mind, Brain, and Education, Community Action Council
Attending: Columbia University in New York City, New York
Studying: Undecided
I also worked with the Peter Clark Center and was able to be a student voice there. That wasn’t something I saw many other students doing, but I knew it was something that I was interested in. So I reached out to get involved. I was able to come in and read about different cognitive science strategies and different ways that we can help students. I was also able to use my own experience to see what will work for other students. I really liked having the opportunity to get involved in the education of people around me. It’s been a big way that I’ve been able to connect with the community.
In what ways has Breck set you up for success next year? Breck challenged me to get out of my comfort zone. When I first started here, I was a very quiet person. But I had to go out and stick up for myself in my courses when they got more challenging; I had to reach out to teachers and other students.
Here at Breck, I’ve gotten the chance to try and fail at a lot of things. That’s given me the confidence to also be able to go into college and try and fail there, too.
Andrew C. ’24 looks ahead to Colorado College, where he will swim for the DIII Tigers.
Started at Breck: Ninth grade
Involved in: Swimming, Soccer, and Track
Attending: Colorado College in Colorado Springs, Colorado
Studying: Business, Economics, and Society
Why pursue swimming in college? All throughout high school I knew I really wanted to swim in college. I knew it was going to be a long ride, but I knew what I was sacrificing for. I love the personal aspect of swimming and the idea that it’s all on you to get better. I love the team aspect, too. Swimming has taught me a lot of disciplinary skills. It takes a lot to go get in the pool for two hours after a hard day. And then go home and do even more homework on top of that.
How did you decide on Colorado College? I learned about Colorado College when I was in eighth grade. I thought it was an interesting place after I learned about the block plan and only taking one class at a time. After that, I kind of set my eyes on it. Sophomore spring break we went out and visited, and I loved it. The campus is gorgeous, and I met the team. I did my due diligence of looking at other places. But ultimately, I set my heart on Colorado College. I applied early, and the rest is history.
What are you most looking forward to next year? I’ve heard incredible things about the [swim] team culture; they all go hiking and fly-fishing together on the weekends. There’s something so special about the swim community we have here, but there’s a whole other aspect of living with the people you’re swimming with. I’m really excited just to get super close to them.
How did Breck prepare you to be successful inside and outside the pool? The Breck coaches have had a huge positive impact on my life. Also, it sounds kind of cliche, but just coming to school every day and having the same people who are here to learn and have similar goals as me has been really inspiring for me.
To be successful at Breck, I believe it’s essential to have the work ethic and discipline to just get your work done as soon as possible. That was taught to me at Breck in the pool and in the classroom. B
THE GRADUATES
The class of 2024 will matriculate to the following colleges and universities:
American University
Amherst College
Arizona State University
Bard College
Boston College (3)
Carleton College (2)
Colby College
Colgate University (3)
College of Saint Benedict
College of the Holy Cross
Colorado College (2)
Columbia University
Cornell University
Dartmouth College
Dickinson College
Duke Kunshan University
Elon University
Emory University (2)
Fort Lewis College
Georgetown University
Hamilton College
Hampton University
Haverford College
Hood College
Indiana University (3)
Iowa State University
Loyola Marymount University (2)
Loyola University Chicago
Macalester College (2)
Miami University (Oxford)
Michigan State University (2)
Middlebury College
Northeastern University
Nova Southeastern University
Ohio University
Princeton University
Purdue University (2)
Santa Clara University (3)
Scripps College
Seton Hall University
Southern Methodist University
St. Cloud State University
St. Olaf College
Texas Christian University
The Ohio State University
University of Arizona
University of California, Berkeley
University of California, Irvine
University of California, Los Angeles
University of Chicago (2)
University of Colorado Boulder (2)
University of Denver
University of Iowa (2)
University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (2)
University of Mississippi (2)
University of North Carolina
University of Notre Dame
University of Oregon
University of Richmond
University of Rochester
University of St. Thomas (2)
University of Vermont
University of Washington (2)
University of Wisconsin–Madison (4)
Vanderbilt University
Villanova University
Washington University in St. Louis (2)
Wesleyan University
Whitman College
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Xavier University
Congratulations, Class of 2024!
The Breck community celebrated the graduating seniors at Baccalaureate and Senior Pinning on June 2 and Commencement on June 4, both held in the Chapel of the Holy Spirit.
What’s in your
Hall of Fame football: In 2023, the 2003 state championship football team — of which Ohm was a coach — was inducted into the Breck Athletic Hall of Fame. This is just one of many footballs in Ohm’s office.
Cobber Beanie: The Cobber beanie comes from Ohm’s alma mater: Concordia College in Morehead, Minn. In a beloved tradition that dates back more than 100 years, all new students at Concordia take part in a beanie toss that marks their first day as a student there.
2003 football helmet: This helmet was from the iconic Breck football team that boasted an impressive 14-0 record. Ohm was part of the coaching staff on the sidelines during the state championship game, where the team defeated Kingsland 51-14.
Carver County Civilian Appreciation Medal: About a decade ago, two individuals were trying to steal from Ohm’s garage. He stopped them and was awarded this medal by the local police for his bravery. 1 2 3 4
Thank you cards: Ohm has kept nearly every thank you card he’s ever received from students and families over the years — and he’s got an overflowing basket full of them on his shelf.
Brad Peterson dollars: Anytime longtime Math Department Chair Brad Peterson thinks Ohm does something smart, he gives him a dollar. When he does something silly, he takes a dollar away. (Since this photo was taken, Peterson gave Ohm another dollar. His current balance at the time of publication was $3.)
Handmade Liberian bracelet: This was gifted to Ohm by Sirr Akinsanya ’23 and his family as a thank you upon Akinsanya’s graduation.
Signed baseball: As the former Breck baseball coach and lifelong lover of the game, Ohm has countless baseballs in his office, including this one that is signed by his four children: Riley, Tucker, Culley, and Ireland.
of f ice?
Irish Blessing cross: “If you don’t know the Irish Blessing, you were never in Breck Upper School,” Ohm says, referring to the favorite prayer used after nearly every senior speech.
Turf from the old Metrodome: Yes, it’s even got a certificate of authenticity.
2015 Breck Mustang yearbook: The Class of 2015 dedicated their yearbook to Ohm. Ohm has yearbooks from every year he’s worked at Breck in his office.
Mosaic picture: Ohm cherishes this framed print of the mosaic in Breck’s chapel that he was given in 2008 when the mosaic was first installed.
Brick from Breck’s old senior courtyard: Ohm snagged this during construction of Breck’s new Upper School in 2012 and has had it in his office ever since.
The things we choose to have in our space can say a lot about who we are. Check out a selection of items from Assistant Director of the Upper School and Dean Chris Ohm’s office that he has accumulated over his more than two decade tenure at Breck.
Disco ball necklace: While the exact history of this item is unknown, it represents all the socials, dances, proms, and other fun stuff Ohm has been part of over the years.
Balance scale with Canadian ore: Ohm tries to keep everything in his life in balance, and this scale, which he keeps on his desk, is representative of that mindset. Keeping it balanced is ore from Northern Ontario, where Ohm loves to go fishing.
Fargo mug: Hailing from Fargo, North Dakota, Ohm has this mug in his office to remind him of his home. “North Dakota is my pride,” he says.
Community shirt: “Community was kind of my hashtag for a while,” Ohm says. This shirt was given to Ohm by Will Hayes ’09 after a memorable encounter in assembly. B
RETIREES
The next chapter
After a collective 140 years of service to our school, faculty and staff members
Jody Bratten, Darrell Bryant , Lori Merrill, Laurie Nelson, Mark Nolan, Kevin Phelan, and Liz Schoenborn say goodbye to Breck and hello to retirement.
“I’ve made a lot of friends at Breck who are very close to me. The kids are just wonderful — I love being able to watch them grow up. I will miss the people, the kids, the community. It’s just a good work environment. I’m gonna miss it all.”
Liz Schoenborn Kindergarten teacher
At Breck since 2005
Darrell Bryant
Facilities
At Breck since 2005
“I love that I’m ending in kindergarten, where we’re setting the tone for all of school life. We have to make sure kids not only know how to do school — routines, the work, interacting personally — but we also have to instill that love of school and place. And what a better place to do it than Breck. It’s so easy to teach kids to love this place and love who they are in this place.”
Lori Merrill Upper School history
At Breck since 1988
“If you stay someplace for over three and a half decades, you love a lot of things. But if I had to narrow it down to one thing, I loved working with people who were intellectually curious and caring, and they passed that on to their students. So many of my colleagues are so good at what they do, and I learned a tremendous amount from them. The conversations were rich, and it was always a fun environment to talk to my colleagues and students. At Breck, I was never bored.”
Merrill is pictured second from left with her history department colleagues in 2008.
JODY BRATTEN
Campus Store, at Breck since 2006
Jody is highly organized, detail-oriented, and patient with students and faculty/staff alike. She works tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure everyone from across the school has what they need to be successful. Our campus store will feel the effects of Jody’s hard work for years to come.
LAURIE NELSON
Bus Driver, at Breck since 2006
Because Laurie drove just two routes in nearly 20 years, she had the opportunity to pick up students in Lower School and see them through until Upper School, which allowed her to develop really special relationships and deep connections with her riders. It’s estimated that she transported more than 500 students on her routes over the years. We are appreciative of all Laurie did for our community over the years!
MARK NOLAN
Facilities, at Breck since 2004
Mark is consistent, reliable, and always ready to lend a hand when asked — even at a moment’s notice. So much of Mark’s time over the last two decades was spent behind the scenes quietly making sure the entire building, from the roof to the tunnels, continued to run smoothly and safely. We are so appreciative of everything Mark has done over the years and wish him the best!
KEVIN PHELAN
Bus driver, at Breck since 2014
Over the last 10 years, Kevin has been a substitute driver, filling in on whatever routes are needed. During his time, we estimate he transported more than 5,000 kids on his routes. It takes a special person to be willing to take on that type of role — someone who is extremely flexible, calm, and able to think on their feet. Kevin is just that type of person, and our community is forever grateful that we have always been able to rely on him. B
WHERE ARE THEY NOW
Blazing your own trail
Bryan Tyner ’86, fire chief for the Minneapolis Fire Department, believes Breck prepares students to do anything.
Bryan Tyner ’86 considers himself an adrenaline junkie. He’s also always felt called to serve the community. While he never imagined a career in the fire service, Tyner discovered that being a firefighter checked both boxes. Once he joined the Minneapolis Fire Department in 1995, he never looked back.
After graduating from Breck in 1986, Tyner spent time studying business at the University of Minnesota. But after a few years, he realized that wasn’t the path for him. While working at a transportation company, he was first introduced to the idea of becoming a firefighter.
“I’d never really considered becoming a firefighter before that,” he explains, “but it was a chance to serve my community and make a living wage at the same time. So I jumped at that opportunity.”
Over his nearly 30 year career at the Minneapolis Fire Department, Tyner has worked in just about every position within the fire service: firefighter, driver, captain, battalion chief, fire marshal, assistant chief, and, since December 2020, fire chief. He also earned a bachelor of science in fire services administration from Waldorf University and an executive fire officer certification from the U.S. National Fire Academy.
“It’s been a very rewarding career for me,” he says. “What I love the most is being able to serve the community. When you help somebody, put out a fire, perform a rescue, or help somebody who’s having a medical emergency, you’re able to see the fruits of your labor in real time.”
Tyner — who attended Breck from fourth grade through 12th — believes his Breck education has served him in many ways throughout his career — and life.
“Breck prepared me not just for this career, but it really gave me a good springboard to do just about anything,” he says. Thinking critically and being able to see the bigger picture connects back to his Breck classrooms, where everyone was expected to apply themselves and think through problems from many different angles.
Being a firefighter is a unique path for Breck graduates, which is why Tyner is happy and willing to share his experience with current Breck students who may have interest in the fire service. He networked with juniors and seniors at the Career Exploration Fair this spring (pictured left) and even hosted an intern during May Program this year.
While his next step is retirement, Tyner knows the adrenaline junkie in him won’t allow him to just sit at home. He hopes to be able to help teach, either locally or at the National Fire Academy, and inspire the next generation of firefighters. “It’s kind of a love it or hate it type of job,” he says. “But if it’s for you, there’s really nothing else better.” B
Tyner is pictured top in fifth grade and bottom in 11th grade.
Class Notes
1. In early March, 27 ALUMS from various jobs and industries came back for the Career Exploration Fair for juniors and seniors. We were so incredibly proud to see alumni share their expertise and job advice with current students.
2. This winter, MORE THAN 60 ALUMNI came to the NYC Alumni Regional Connection in midtown Manhattan. Former Lower School Director PEG BAILEY and former faculty member FRANK EUSTIS also made an appearance. Thank you to Breck Board of Trustee MARIE SUESSE for hosting.
3. On January 16, the Breck alumni community honored long-time Breck Boys Hockey coach WALLY CHAPMAN at the Anderson Ice Arena.
1980s
4. ANDREW MULLIN ’89 is a candidate for the Mayor of Wayzata MN this November 2024. Mullin previously served two terms on the Wayzata City Council and is a marketing executive in the aerospace industry.
1990s
5. The 1994 BOYS HOCKEY TEAM got together during the state tournament to reminisce over their run in the tournament, organized by ERIC JONES ’94
6. TONY JEWETT ’94 and JIMMY BELTZ ’94 were the grand marshalls for the 2024 Tour de Breck.
7. DIMITRIOS EFSTATHIOU ’96 was recently promoted from vice president of soccer operations and strategy to senior vice president of strategy at Atlanta United FC. He previously worked for more than a decade at Major League Soccer.
8. RACHEL HARDEMAN ’98 was named one of Time magazine’s TIME100 Most Influential People in the World for her work at the Center for Antiracism Research for Health Equity (CARHE) at the University of Minnesota.
9. This spring, BATALA-RA MCFARLANE ’92 , RACHEL HARDEMAN ’98, SIMONE HARDEMAN-JONES ’98, ANNA OTIENO ’99, and DANIELLE VRIEZE ’99 were instrumental in the planning of a celebration at Breck to honor former teacher and staff member MARION JONES KENNON, the endowed scholarship fund named in her honor, and her enduring legacy. Stay tuned for the 2023–24 annual report for more on this story.
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Alumni Engagement
Reunion planners
1964
Dick Myers ’64
1974
Charlie Baker ’74
RT Ryback ’74
1984
Margaret Harstad ’84
Dina Wolkoff ’84
Liz Elert ’84
Katie Flanagan-Steidle ’84
Jean (Sargent) Gaines ’84
Karen (Horner) Mason ’84
1989
Kari (Ellis) Cook ’89
Allison O'Toole ’89
Heidi Humphrey ’89
1994
Chloe Caplan ’94
Sarah Burress ’94
Christopher Neher ’94
1999
Alicia Luther Toms ’99
Michael Proman ’99
Ben Schleuss ’99
2009
Mary Goetz ’09
2014
Leslie Hayes ’14
David Caruso ’14
Mardryka Adzick ’14
2019
Abigail Wesson ’19
Jack Wolf ’19
To view photos from alumni reunions, award ceremonies, events, and more, scan below or visit breckschool.zenfolio.com
2000s
10. JOHN AHLERS ’05 and MATTIE HOGG ’10 got married on June 22 in the South of France. They met in 2018 while Mattie was finishing veterinary school and John was finishing business school. Their shared Breck experience has shaped the foundation of their relationship, and they are so grateful for their now-merged Breck communities.
11. ANDREW KITZENBERG ’05 and ALEX FR ÉCON ’05 won the 2024 Adult Hockey Association B3 Winter Championship. Using the skills they learned during their days of JV Breck Hockey under the guidance of Glen Lang, they helped the Spartans to a 163-1 regular season record before taking home the AHA B3 Cup after a five-game playoff tournament.
2010s
12. EMILY (KLEIDON) REES ’10 and GABBY BILLINGS ’18 represented USWNT for Bandy at the 4 Nations Cup in Ruddalens Indoor Arena in Gothenburg, Sweden in March.
13. KATIE THORNTON ’10 spoke at this year’s Cum Laude ceremony in April.
United by Breck
The bonds built at Breck will last a lifetime.
“No journey is traveled alone, and no success is accomplished in isolation. So in the moments when life gets hard, turn to the Breck community….When you reach out to that person who you haven’t spoken to in years, or when you introduce yourself to that alumni who you haven’t met yet, they will cheer for you. They will care about you, and they will want the best for you because you have Breck in common.”
—Marielos Cabrera ’13, who was this year’s alumni speaker at Commencement. Cabrera is an attorney at Fredrikson & Byron, P.A. in Minneapolis.
In Memoriam
It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of members of our alumni community. Please keep the following Mustangs and their families in your thoughts and prayers:
Mitchell Smilanich ’53
Daniel Cohen ’54
Douglas Mamer ’75
Jake Hoehne ’12
We recognize there may be others in our community who have passed away but are not listed here. Please reach out to alumni@breckschool.org if there is someone who should be listed in the next issue.
14. KIKO LAUREANO ’13 performed in the Guthrie Theater’s production of Little Shop of Horrors this summer.
15. ARYKA SANDERS-DAWKINS ’13 and Andre Smith welcomed their baby girl Alora on May 6, 2024. Both parents are very excited and happy to welcome the new member of the family, who is already so full of energy and has her own little personality. Aryka and Andre are excited to get their little one more involved in the Breck community!
16. GRACE ZUMWINKLE ’17 and PWHL Minnesota won the inaugural Walter Cup against Boston this spring. Zumwinkle was named the 2024 PWHL rookie of the year.
2020s
17. KENNEDY LUCAS ’23 just finished her freshman year at Hampton University in their five-year MBA program. A Prudential Hampton Fellow and Sigma Beta Delta Honors Society member, Lucas was also part of a team that won the PGIM Fixed Income Credit Research Case Competition.
Looking for more?
If you want more Breck alumni news between Today at Breck issues, check out the alumni e-newsletter at breckschool.org/alumni
You can learn about upcoming events, read interviews, and more.
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IN THEIR OWN WORDS
An inside view
Alumni parent and outgoing Board of Trustees President Rich Mattera has seen Breck through many lenses over the years — and believes our school is well positioned for the future.
I often find myself thinking about the first time I walked into Breck. My family and I were about to move to Minnesota for me to begin a new job with a company in the Twin Cities, and my wife and I were in town to scout out potential schools for our two boys, who were 7 and 10 at the time. From the moment I walked into Breck — with hockey bags strewn across Salas Commons and students greeting each other and interacting with teachers and administrators with a comfort and familiarity that you find in families and tight knit communities — we knew our boys would not only get a great education but also thrive at such a special place. That was 13 years ago.
I came to appreciate so many great things about Breck while my boys (John ’20 and Ben ’22) were students: the challenging academic curriculum, the athletic program, the strong arts and music programs, the wonderful and caring faculty and staff, the beautiful campus anchored by the chapel in the center, and the deep sense of community that makes Breck Breck. I cherished my time as a Breck parent and wouldn’t trade it for anything.
I have learned to appreciate the greatness of Breck in a different, deeper way having had the privilege of serving as a member of the Board of Trustees over the past five years, the last two as president. I have had the distinct pleasure as part of a team of trustees, faculty members, and administrators articulating what Breck is and stands for as we updated the school’s mission statement and core values. This was important work as it provides all of us in the Breck community common language regarding the purpose and principles that define our school.
Equally important was assisting with the five-year strategic plan that was rolled out this year. This document is a road map for our future as a school and is highly purposeful to
set Breck apart as a national leader in independent school education. It’s both practical and ambitious for what Breck aspires to become.
As Board president, I have had an inside view of the challenges and complexities of operating an independent school, which is made up of more than 1,200 students and 300 faculty, administrators, and support staff that spans preschool to grade 12, dining, security, and transportation services — not to mention a sprawling and aging physical campus and ice arena and an annual budget in excess of $40 million and a $65 million endowment fund. Suffice to say, it’s not for the faint of heart. Head of School Natalia R. Hernández and her talented senior leadership team deal with the daily challenges of running a school with skill and grace that is impossible for most to truly understand, let alone fully appreciate.
The amazing thing is that while operating the school is a necessity, the incredible faculty and staff at Breck understand its solely a means to an end. An end that they never lose sight of and are singularly focused on: the education of our children. The leaders of tomorrow.
It has been an honor and a privilege to serve the last two years as the Board president. To be able to participate in many meetings and planning sessions where the sole focus is how to further a challenging and innovative academic program and to be at the forefront of the art of teaching has been the greatest pleasure of my time on the Board.
Breck is well positioned for the future, with strong leadership and a clear vision to be a preeminent independent school and a caring and supportive community that envelopes the students, faculty, and staff. A special place indeed. B
Publications like Today at Breck and beloved school traditions like Tour de Breck are made possible by the Breck Fund.
