Bridgton Academy Today Fall 2016

Bridgton Academy

fall/winter 2016

TODAY www.bridgtonacademy.org

50 Years of Postgraduate Education Special Insert:

The

2016

Celebrating the Career of Peter Gately

ANNUAL REPORT ON GIVING

Bridgton Academy

The Official Publication of Bridgton Academy Managing Editor, Designer Nick LeBel Content Editor Jessica Priola Writer, Contributor Michelle Cross Writer, Contributor Sarah Gaines Writer, Contributor Nick Swim ‘12

Bridgton Academy Today is produced biannually as the official publication of Bridgton Academy, and is distributed to alumni, parents of alumni, and friends of the Academy. We welcome your feedback and encourage you to reach out to us at alumni@bridgtonacademy.org.

The Year That Makes The Difference * Original Cover Drone Photograph by Michael Krakowka

Fr om the Headm a s t e r In early October, we celebrated our 209th Homecoming. It was an incredibly enjoyable, prideful, and fulfilling weekend for each of us who love Bridgton Academy. The weekend, filled with lots of sun, smiles, and good cheer, was highlighted by a memorable turnout of alumni, parents, and friends. I tip my cap to each of you who joined us for Homecoming Weekend and wish to recognize each of you who would have been with us if not for the twists and turns of your busy lives.

Homecoming also featured an athletic field dedication. Our brand new baseball complex will now be forever known as Koop Field in honor of the Kooperman family. Koop Field features state of the art amenities, including an artificial turf infield, and has the unique feel and playability of a major college ballpark! Our eternal thanks go out to the Kooperman family, true philanthropists who believe in who we are, understand why we do what we do, and are committed to supporting the education of our deserving young men.

This year, our campus is alive with an international flavor as never before. All told, our student body boasts 23 international students who hail from a total of 16 sovereign states, comprising a Class of ’17 that literally spans the globe! As always, our talented faculty and staff—a community of true role models and advocates who pledge to help our boys grow into men “built for others”—have our students already believing in themselves and their futures.

As many of you know, the Class of 2017 will be my last as Headmaster of your Academy. While I look forward to an exciting new voyage in my life’s journey beginning next summer, I will always remain extraordinarily proud and humbled to have had the privilege of leading Bridgton Academy for close to a decade. As I bid you adieu, I remain confident in BA’s strength and sustainability.

My mantra for success has always been “People first, Programs second, and Facilities third.” My confidence in Bridgton Academy’s success is grounded in the tremendous faculty and staff who grace our campus every day. The passion of our people is unlike any others I have ever experienced.

As I mountain bike off into the sunset, please know that your Academy and our young men are in the most caring and talented of hands. The future of Bridgton Academy is secure! As we sail forth in our third century of “making the difference” for our young men, your Academy is strong and healthy with a future that is as bright and inviting as one could ever hope to imagine!

Thank you for your belief, encouragement, and support. You inspire each of us – starting with me – every day! God bless, Godspeed, and all the best always.

Graydon E. Vigneau, Jr., P’12

homecoming

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2016

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hH o m e c o m2 0i n1 6g o m e c o m i n g

Bridgton Academy was thrilled to welcome nearly three hundred guests to campus from September 30th – October 2nd for our annual Homecoming Weekend!

Families of the Class of 2017 joined alumni spanning over five decades to celebrate all-things Bridgton Academy during this annual fall weekend. The occasion allowed parents to see how their sons were adjusting to their new life in the foothills of the White Mountains, while also catching a glimpse, by way of our alumni, of the long-term success a year at Bridgton can help inspire. This year, we were particularly excited to welcome back members of the Bridgton Academy Class of 1986 who were on campus to celebrate their thirty-year reunion.

Plans are already underway to celebrate Homecoming Weekend 2017, during which alumni with graduation years ending in 7’s and 2’s will be honored for their reunion-year milestones (all alumni classes are encouraged to attend, though)! Homecoming 2017 will take place September 29th – October 1st.

For more information on how to reconnect with classmates and rally them to join you in celebrating your reunion, please contact Sarah Gaines at (207) 647-3322 ext. 1213 /sgaines@bridgtonacademy.org.

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homecoming

2016

Bridgton Academy’s Baseball Field Gets a New Name

During last year’s Homecoming Weekend, Bridgton Academy alumni, trustees, faculty,

students, and guests gathered together to officially unveil the Academy’s brand new baseball facility, which opened at the start of the 2015–16 school year. A component of the Academy’s “Rise, Sons of Bridgton” capital campaign, the field renovation was substantial, resulting in a first-class baseball facility right here in western Maine. The only thing missing on this new baseball field was a name.

During the summer of 2016, Bridgton Academy was honored to accept a generous donation—the largest to date in the “Rise, Sons of Bridgton” Campaign—to formally name the new field. The Academy’s baseball field will now be perpetually known as Koop Field. On a fine fall day during Homecoming Weekend this October, guests gathered to celebrate the naming of Koop Field in a special dedication event. The namesakes of the new field, Marc Kooperman of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and his son, Brian Kooperman, were in attendance for the celebration. At the conclusion of the event, Mr. Marc Kooperman threw out a ceremonial first pitch (below) on the newly-minted Koop Field.

say hello to Marc and Brian Kooperman 4 | BA TODAY autumn 2016

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The Kooperman family has strong ties with Bridgton Academy. The family owns and operates Bridgton Sports Camp (BSC), a residential summer camp for boys that is hosted on the campus of Bridgton Academy. Now in its sixth year, Bridgton Sports Camp continues to grow in popularity among families from the northeast and far beyond. Campers focus on developing their character through both life and sports; ideals that align closely with those of the Academy.

“Bridgton Academy could not be more thrilled to celebrate the naming of Koop Field,” affirmed Academy Headmaster, Grady Vigneau. “The Kooperman Family and Bridgton Sports Camp are synonymous with summer here at Bridgton, and we are excited to establish a lasting legacy for the Koopermans right here on campus.”

Brian Kooperman, Director of by his campers and staff “Koop”—a name the through their new field be a place where both Academy students can learn new skills.

Bridgton Sports Camp, is known not as Mr. Kooperman, but family can now also celebrate dedication. Koop Field will BSC campers and Bridgton create great memories and

Koop Field, which has an artificial turf infield and grass outfield, includes two dugouts, team bullpens, and batting cages. This summer marked the first summer that BSC campers played on the new field. The Academy continues to move forward with its “Rise, Sons of Bridgton” capital campaign, with the goal of raising an additional $4 million in the coming years for the construction of a new strength and fitness center.

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Gater has Left

There are many legends in the history of Bridgton Academy. Names that swirl through decades, bringing a smile (or a slightly guilty grimace) to the faces of those reflecting on their time on the hill. While many individuals have helped to lay the foundation that is Bridgton Academy today, some individuals have built entire additions to the house we all call home. One such individual, one such legend that has forever shaped Bridgton Academy, is Mr. Peter Gately.

This past summer, Mr. Gately officially announced his retirement from Bridgton Academy. Without trumpets or a ticker-tape parade, he humbly, and quietly, made his exit from Bridgton Academy. Transitions can sometimes be hard, and for many of us at the Academy, Mr. Gately’s transition was not easy. Pete is a pillar among our staff, a pulse for our faculty, a rock of ages against the smashing tides of changing internal and external politics. For as difficult as Mr. Gately’s transition into retirement may be for his colleagues, this change is perhaps most bittersweet for Mr. Gately himself. When you do something you love for 39 years, the investment is simply enormous. Bridgton Academy is a part of Peter Gately, just as Peter Gately is a part of who we are. So, as “Gater” officially begins the process of moving into the brave new world of retirement, we wanted to take the time to share a few thoughts from the legend himself.

Peter Gately’s Bridgton story began with a newspaper in the summer of 1977. Feeling a bit discouraged after not getting a position he hoped for at Cornell University, the newly minted graduate school grad was regrouping in New Jersey with his wife, Barbara, when he saw a classified advertisement that caught his interest. “Teach Oceanography in Maine,” the headline read. It was enough to pique Mr. Gately’s curiosity and, before he knew it, he found himself in Bridgton, interviewing with Headmaster Robert Walker.

Back in 1977, the overall size of the Academy’s staff was much smaller.

Gately reflected that the students then had the same aspirations as they do today: to create more opportunities for themselves through a postgraduate year. That said, most of the students during that era did not have a college option after high school, in fact, many were the first in their family to even aspire to higher education.

During Peter’s early years at Bridgton, a core group of faculty peers helped to teach Mr. Gately “how to do BA.” These influencers included Chuck Hamaty, and the late Gordon Weeks, Doug Avery, and Jack Hapenney. Pete also arrived on campus during the same year as

Phil Goepel ’66 and Bill Bearse. These young families helped and supported each other every step of the way.

As time passed, Mr. Gately began to truly appreciate just how much he genuinely loved teaching and coaching the young men of Bridgton.

“I realized that I could really have an impact on my students’ lives in a significant way,” stated Mr. Gately. “There was a shared sense of experience that was meaningful far beyond the thirty-three weeks spent together in North Bridgton.” Pete also commented that he had many, many influential students over the years. “All of my students— whether in the classroom or those I coached—helped me to further develop as a teacher, advisor, coach, and even as a parent. My number one most favorite student of all time is, of course, my son, Peter T. Gately, who attended Bridgton Academy in 2004. It was also an amazing experience to teach the children of my fellow Bridgton instructors and staff, and then things truly came full circle—imagine teaching the children of alumni who I also taught!”

For anyone who knows Mr. Gately, the concept of “six degrees of separation” has no better representation. Mr. Gately can literally go anywhere and bump into a Wolverine, on a ski slope in Colorado, in the wilds of New Zealand, or anywhere in between.

As the years of Mr. Gately’s tenure ticked by, his Bridgton network continued to expand.

Today, Mr. Gately loves to be the alumni magnet that he is. “There is nothing better than meeting up with Bridgton graduates,” explained Mr. Gately. “It’s so validating, both personally and institutionally, to hear how our former students remember their experience. It’s always enlightening to learn what they have taken from us, and being a part of their life journey is a powerful thing.”

When asked about what message he would like to share with alumni, Gately offered the following: “Each and every one of you should feel like Bridgton is your school. If you feel the experience was beneficial, you need to help take ownership of Bridgton and help to shape its future course. The Academy will not move forward without the involvement and feedback from those outside of our immediate school community. I encourage you to reach out to your fellow alumni; network with each other, give something back to Bridgton, refer a student who you feel may benefit from the Academy in the same way that you did.

And, be sure to get back to visit campus! This is your school—and we will always be a part of you!”

From the Bridgton Academy Faculty:

Binaca Macdonald: “Mr. Gately was..and still is...a cornerstone of the Academic program at Bridgton Academy. He was...and still is...someone I lean on to provide me with insight into our young men...their challenges, their mindset...all of it. Pete has retired, but so much of his spirit, his zest...his earnest desire for tempo...is being carried on in those of us who were blessed enough to work with him. Thank you for making our days count, Pete.”

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the Building

Making a change is a process and a time for reflection, thought, and appreciation for lessons learned and challenges faced. Mr. Gately leaves a powerful footprint here at the Academy, along with a legacy that will undoubtedly continue to shape the school for years and decades to come.

That said, Mr. Gately is very humble about his legacy; the quiet observer who will tip his cap, smile, and then walk away. “One’s legacy in my mind is like beauty,” Mr. Gately recently reflected. “Beauty is always ‘in the eyes of the beholder.’ I hope that I am worthy of people’s time and memories.

I hope people recognize my genuine passion for our mission, my students, my colleagues, and my teaching. I never just wanted to go through the motions … I never wanted to waste precious time. I hope I was constructive in that, and that I left a positive impact for those who will come after me.”

In retirement, Pete’s journey is still unfolding. He hopes to travel, “evolve,” and ultimately “do my best to do some things I want to do.” Perhaps most importantly, Peter and his wife, Barbara, are happily enjoying time with their grandchildren. “Becoming a grandfather has made me realize just how precious time really is,” remarked Mr. Gately. “It is an amazing blessing to have grandchildren in my life, and I’m enjoying every minute.”

From the Bridgton staff, and from the thousands of Wolverines you’ve taught, a profound thank you to the legendary Peter Gately for all that you have done, and continue to do, for Bridgton Academy. Happy retirement from all of us, and an amazing thank you to the one and only, Gater.

“Dear Mr. Gately...”

Would you like to share a retirement message with Mr. Gately? Since he does not do “the Facebook” we have set up a webpage to collect thoughts, sentiments, and feedback for Mr. Gately. To leave your message, visit: http://bridgtonacademy.org/thanks-gater/

After 39 years, Mr. Gately has learned a lot about Bridgton and a lot about himself. If Mr. Gately could wave a magic wand, he would hope that each Bridgton student would leave our Academy with the following lessons: 1. Be willing to take risks and accept changes. Stretch yourself to try things outside of your comfort zone.

2. Be able to identify and cultivate key people in your life who have your best interest in mind. Trust them, and work with these people to help you achieve your goals.

Don’t ever be afraid to ask for help.

3. Expect to struggle from time to time, but don’t EVER settle for anything less than your best effort.

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It started over

two hundred years ago, when the great state of Maine did not, in political terms, exist. Founded with the intention of providing an education to the children of those who settled in Bridgetown, as the town was known then, Bridgton Academy has since become one of the leading all-male postgraduate schools in the country; a phenomenon over two centuries in the making.

To visitors today, our illustrious campus “on the hill” is reminiscent of a postcard featuring the archetypal New England prep school from days of yore. The stories contained among these rolling hills and within these buildings’ walls tell a tale of decades of young men whose lives have been transformed

by Bridgton Academy’s legendary postgraduate program.

Spearheaded under then principal and headmaster, Mr. Richard Goldsmith, Bridgton Academy officially launched its postgraduate-specific program in the fall of 1966, at which point four-year students were no longer considered for enrollment. It should be noted, however, that the first enrollment of a postgraduate student at Bridgton dates as far back as 1847—before the Civil War. The change to focus specifically on postgraduate education came on the heels of a number of decisions that, due to the shifting landscape of education locally and nationally, had already begun to alter the Academy’s composition and program. This included the elimination of female boarding students in 1955, followed by the removal of the ninth and tenth grades within that same decade. By this time, the student body had also transitioned into one which was predominantly male, of which the majority were boarding students. (Most local students, male and female, chose to attend the newly-opened public school in the area.)

Celebrating 50 Years of Dedication to Postgraduate Education decreased. The trend continues to this day, with more than half of all male students not graduating from college; a majority of withdrawals taking place during the student’s freshman year of study. For those students who do go on to complete their undergraduate degree, only 34% earn their degree within four years, with six years now becoming the average to earn a college degree among this constituency.

By shifting our mission to a focused postgraduate program, Bridgton Academy has helped address this change in higher education. Bridgton Academy boasts a college retention rate of 70% among our alumni, with an average of four-and-ahalf years of study before an alumnus completes his degree.

What does this all mean? Bridgton Academy’s mission and program remain not only relevant in 2016, but more necessary than ever. This past Homecoming, the Academy proudly celebrated its fifty-year milestone of creating collegeready success stories through our dedicated postgraduate program. As we pause to honor the steps leading up to the program as we know it today, we look ahead, with pride, at all our centuries-old Academy can continue to accomplish for students, their families, and our shared communities, in its quest to ensure today’s young men are prepared for the challenges of the world that awaits them.

To accommodate the growing trend of male postgraduate boarding students, and the school’s newly-restructured mission to prepare young men for the rigors of college and beyond, the Academy expanded to include Holt and Sylvester Halls. The inclusion of additional buildings and property has continued into the twenty-first century, allowing the Academy to address the evolving structure of education and athletics so that our students are more fully prepared for the challenges that await them when they matriculate at a college or university.

In the fifty years since the Academy made the decision to focus on postgraduate education, national rates for college completion among males have steadily 8 | BA TODAY autumn 2016

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A Sneak

Peek

e h t into

Classroom It’s no secret that many students choose Bridgton Academy to improve as an athlete. Whether it’s to become faster or stronger, or just to gain a year of maturity, the marked difference throughout the year in many of these young men is clearly witnessed. While this is to certainly be commended, the work that is taking place in our classrooms is oftentimes even more impressive.

A number of students come to Bridgton with fragile academic confidence or a high school experience where they did not actively engage with the learning process. As such, it’s incredibly rewarding for parents, teachers, advisors and staff to see these student-athletes transform into young scholars. From science and technology instruction in the Dr. Cyrus T. Hamlin STEM Center, to history and English classes in our Humanities Center, Bridgton students are learning time management, organization, note and test-taking skills, as well as the value of academic discipline and how to advocate for themselves. Instilling these newfound skills in our students is part of Bridgton’s mission to “educate young men for the rigors of college and beyond.”

Upon arrival to campus, each student takes math and English placement tests, after which they are placed in the appropriate level course, and their electives are scheduled for them. Math classes range from Advanced Algebra II & Trigonometry, to CAP (College Articulation Program)-level Accelerated Calculus. (Bridgton’s CAP courses offer the opportunity for students to earn transferable college credits.) For English, students take one semester of English Composition and one semester of English Literature, also available at the CAP level for Bridgton students who demonstrate exceptional strength in these subjects. The list of elective classes encompasses over thirty choices, which students have the opportunity to choose from before the start of each semester. Elective classes range from science to history, art to computer programming, and far beyond.

Beth Chagrasulis, veteran Science teacher and Cornell University graduate, is the instructor for Bridgton’s CAP-level Cells, Genes, and Biotechnology course. A recent visit during class revealed a group of students eager to study that day’s topic, lab results from the day prior.

The experiment consisted of students taking a gene from a jellyfish and adding bacteria to it. As they checked their results, “Ms. Chag,” as she is most often called, charged her students with their next step: predicting whether or not each sample would have grown overnight, then further determine that, if it had grown, if it would glow when viewed under a UV light.

Their excitement about what they saw under the light was palpable. “What I like about this class is the challenge that it gives me every single day,” articulated Jacob Gardner ’17.

“I know that there won’t be a day for the rest of the year where I can come to this class and expect an easy day. The material is interesting, and Ms. Chag’s questions are thoughtprovoking.”

Ms. Chag relies heavily on labs to help students learn the material. She finds that handson learning works best, rather than traditional lecture. Through exploring topics in cellular Ms. Chag’s Cells, Genes and Biotechnology Class biology, the structure and function of genes, and biotechnology, students who complete the course will have gained greater knowledge into some of the questions that science can and cannot answer.

To ensure her classroom is equipped with the needed supplies, Ms. Chag utilizes a small number of companies with which she has formed an educational partnership. These companies include AmGen (Springfield, MA) and Jackson Labs (Bar Harbor, ME). Ms. Chag has also been able to obtain the classroom equipment she needs through donor contributions and mentions, in particular, “A very special thanks to Mr. Ed Barr for making it possible for us to purchase new science equipment. Before we received his gift, many of the things we needed simply didn’t exist, and we had to do without or borrow from somewhere.”

Traveling up our campus hill, in Bridgton’s Humanities Center, students are just as excited to arrive at Mr. Travis Dube’s class America at War. Another Bridgton CAP course and one of two classes taught by Mr. Dube, a graduate of Bowdoin College, the class takes an in-depth look at the impact of both World Wars on the development of our nation. One topic includes President Woodrow Wilson’s foreign policy preceding WWI. After examining the German interpretation of this policy and considering Wilson’s actions in the face of this, Mr. Dube presented his class with a question: “From 1912–1917, did Woodrow Wilson’s actions do more to keep the country at peace or push it into war?” Debate teams representing affirmative and opposing viewpoints were formed to provide the platform for student responses.

This lively, yet instructive, hour of study is just a sample of the learning that takes place on any given day here in North Bridgton. Whether through debates, labs, papers, or quizzes, teaching and learning in Bridgton’s classrooms is geared toward meeting the needs of the young men who choose to study at Bridgton Academy. The meaningful, transformational work taking place in the classrooms of Bridgton Academy is truly making the difference in our students’ lives.

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Annual Report 2016 a special section of Dear Friends,

on

Bridgton Academy

Giving

As we enjoy the holiday season and its spirit of thanksgiving, I want to share with all of you my profound gratitude for your choice to support Bridgton Academy. You inspire, engage, and bolster our mission, and we are truly honored by your involvement!

This past fiscal year was full of opportunity and challenge for Bridgton Academy and our fundraising team.

Throughout the fiscal year, we introduced several new initiatives, including the Women of Bridgton Giving Society—a giving circle dedicated to honoring and stewarding the philanthropic support of our female constituents. This fiscal year also saw 709 alumni, parents, and friends make a charitable gift in support of Bridgton, totalling over $1.077 million in gifts for your Academy. Of these 709 donors, 173 made their firstever gift to Bridgton, including new alumni donors with graduating years dating as far back as 1950!

Moving forward, the largest fundraising challenge that Bridgton Academy faces is to broaden our network of supporters, better engaging those who want to directly impact the mission and program of Bridgton. While our alumni participation rate continues to climb in a positive direction, our overall alumni participation still hovers in the single-digits, presenting a challenge to the sustainability of our philanthropic base as devoted older alumni advance in years. Our team remains dedicated to keeping you involved and engaged with what is going on at your Academy. Please know that those who make a gift to the school, however modest or large, are all heros to our program and our young men!

I would like to once again thank all of the individuals in the pages that follow for their generosity and devotion to “The Year That Makes The Difference.” I would also like to especially honor and recognize the individuals on the following page—true champions of Bridgton Academy—who have chosen to support Bridgton for ten or more consecutive years!

Sincerely,

Jessica Priola, CFRE, Director of Institutional Advancement

Thank you to the following women who are the first to join Bridgton Academy's Women of Bridgton Giving Society! You are carrying on a proud tradition of philanthropy among the great sorority of Bridgton Academy’s female alums, faculty, employees, parents, and friends.

Ms. Beverly Worthington Boehling ‘52 Mrs. Kimberly Charette Mrs. Susan Cole Mrs. Elizabeth Doherty Mrs. Ann Marie Fontaine Mrs. Carole Charnow Grainger Mrs. Marilyn Marston Mrs. Dorene Packer Mrs. Valerie Smith Mrs. Karen Statser Mrs. Susan Walz Mrs. Alexandra Wrage

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2016 B ridgton A cademy R eport

on

G iving

10 year donors

A very special thank-you to our those who have given every year for a decade or more!

Agnes M. Lindsay Trust C. Werner Anderson ‘59 Mr. & Mrs. Samuel Andrews Philip Anthes ‘85 Mr. & Mrs. Philip Anthes Mr. & Mrs. George Antonio John Apkarian ‘47 Mr. William Armour ‘67 Dr. & Mrs. William Atlee Roger Austin ‘86 Mr. & Mrs. Tom Austin John Bacheller ‘62 Seth Bacon ‘79 Ms. Helene Baker Luigi Barassi ‘43 Thomas Barker ‘62 Dennis Barous ‘58 Joan Barrett ‘47 Mr. & Mrs. William Bearse Douglas Benedict ‘56 Mr. & Mrs. Charles A. Berg Mr. & Mrs. Paul Blanch Mark W. Bloom ‘67 Beverly Boehling ‘52 Robert Bogan ‘83 Mrs. Sallie Brigham Mr. R. Gifford Broderick Nelson Brown ‘74 Peter Brown ‘61 William Browne ‘66 Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Bruneau David Bryant ‘47 Madelyn Buck ‘37 Gordon Buffett ‘52 James Burek ‘62 Matthew Burgess ‘88 Dorothy Campbell ‘47 Malcolm Campbell ‘56 Bruce Cargill ‘61 Mr. & Mrs. Alfred Carlson John Cartmill ‘66 Mrs. Mary Ellen Cerullo Mr. & Mrs. Sheldon Chaiken Mr. & Mrs. Bruce Chalmers Joseph Chianciola ‘68 Ms. Cynthia Choate Andrew Cohen ‘71 Mr. & Mrs. Stanley Cohen Ms. Alice Colby-Hall, PhD ‘49 Mr. Bruce Cole & Mrs. Susan Cole Michael Cooper ‘68 Arthur Curtis ‘52 Mr. John Daley ‘77 Harold Damelin, Esq. ‘65 Mr. Norman Darbe Rachel Rice Deans ‘39 Daniel Demers ‘83 Robert Dempsey ‘70 Allan Denison ‘58 Mr. Vic DiGravio Mr. & Mrs. David Diller Mr. & Mrs. Robert DiPasquale Mr. & Mrs. Richard Donahue Michael Doyle ‘67 Alden Dreyer ‘61

Steven Dwyer ‘67 Mrs. Betty Dyer Warren Edwards ‘54 Albert Evans, Jr. ‘47 Eleanor L. Walker Trust John P. Ellis ‘78 Col. Richard Fickett ‘53 Mr. & Mrs. Mark Filler Mr. & Mrs. John Fisher James Gagne ‘65 Mr. & Mrs. John Gallant Garabed Garabedian ‘57 Thomas Gay ‘47 Kevin Giblin ‘70 Ms. Amy Glaser Mr. & Mrs. Alfred Glover Mrs. Barbara Glynn Arthur Goepel ‘66 David Gretkowski ‘83 Frank Hackett ‘76 Mr. & Mrs. Charles Hamaty Mr. & Mrs. Kevin D. Hancock Richard Harlow ‘64 George Harris ‘47 Leonard Hathaway ‘58 Frederick Haynes ‘54 Kraig Haynes ‘78 Mr. Thomas Hays Dr. Edgar H. Hemmer Melvin Heymann ‘44 Todd Higgins ‘86 Donald Hill ‘48 Mr. Ron Hill & Mrs. Maureen Dervin-Hill Nancy Holden ‘47 Mr. Chester Homer Frederick Hoy ‘62 Capt. & Mrs. Carl Hoyer Ms. Grace Hursty Mr. & Mrs. Theodore Jennings Ronald Johnson ‘55 Brian Jones ‘85 Kevin Jones ‘81 Andrew Karkos ‘51 Daniel W. Keeler, Jr. ‘64 James King ‘69 Robert Knickerbocker ‘69 Willard Leavitt ‘66 William Lederman ‘83 Mr. & Mrs. David Lepage Mr. & Mrs. Whit Lesure Mrs. Sandra Lewis S. Patricia Linscott ‘50 Dr. Kurtland Lord ‘41 Peter Lutze ‘68 Mrs. Pauline Luukko Robert Lynch ‘86 Wayne Lynch ‘65 Mrs. Audrey MacIntyre Billie MacKay ‘53 Hugh C. MacKenzie ‘61 Dr. Edward Martin ‘62 Mr. H. Jackson Marvel Mr. & Mrs. Robert Marvel Gerald McCall ‘48 Mr. & Mrs. Larry McCarthy

a special section of

Mr. James McNeil Mr. & Mrs. William McWilliams Mr. & Mrs. Richard Meader Mr. & Mrs. Gerard Mergardt Shaun Mesite ‘97 Mr. & Mrs. Patrick Mesite Donald Millberry ‘50 Dr. George Montminy ‘63 Mr. & Mrs. C. Oscar Morong George Mullin ‘59 Mr. & Mrs. Steven Munger Mr. & Mrs. Richard Myers Mr. & Mrs. John F. Nelson Mr. & Mrs. Norman Nicholson Robert Nickerson ‘47 Mr. Leo O’Brien Christopher Osburn ‘00 Mr. Raymond Ouellette ‘65 Mr. & Mrs. John Paladino Ross Perry ‘88 Mr. & Mrs. Bernard Peter Robert Phipps ‘69 Mr. Marc Posner ‘64 Steven Potter ‘68 Mr. & Mrs. John Powers John Ready ‘70 J. George Reed ‘70 C. Albert Robichaud ‘52 Mr. Edward Robson ‘50 Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Romanchuk Paul Salit ‘82 David Sampson ‘56 Col. Philip Saulnier ‘58 Mr. & Mrs. Richard Savoie Mr. & Mrs. Darvin Schanley Mr. & Mrs. Boake Sells Edwin Smith ‘64 Richard Sommers ‘61 James Soutar ‘59 Charles Spilman ‘61 Thomas Stewart ‘68 Mr. & Mrs. Peter Strassell Peter Suneson ‘72 LTC. Joseph Sweeney ‘75 Michael Sweeney ‘87 Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Sweeney Albert Symes ‘57 Mr. & Mrs. JC Wm. Tattersall Robert Teel ‘65 Mr. & Mrs. George Theophanis Merrill Thoresen ‘60 Edward Tobiasson ‘64 Robert Trudel ‘50 Nelson Turnquist ‘56 William Vaughan ‘77 Mr. & Mrs. Graydon Vigneau, Jr. David Wedderspoon ‘69 Mr. & Mrs. Earl Weddle Carol S. Wenmark ‘54 James White ‘65 Mrs. Ba White Ms. Sally White Mr. Thomas Willins Roberta Young ‘43 Mrs. Edna Zanfagna

B ridgton A cademy T oday

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The 1808 Parent Society Bridgton Academy parents who make a total donation of $1,808 or more during a given fiscal year are recognized in our parents-only giving circle, The 1808 Parent Society. The names of The 1808 Parent Society participants are listed annually on a special recognition plaque housed in the Dr. Cyrus T. Hamlin STEM Center on campus. We would like to thank and recognize our Fiscal Year 2016 1808 Parent Society members.

Why do you give to BA?

Anonymous Mr. & Mrs. Edward E. Barr P’99 Dr. Bryan Burkey & Mrs. Mariana Ovnic P’16 Mr. & Mrs. William Chalmers P’96 Mr. & Mrs. Howard Ehrlich P’94, P’98, P’13 Mr. Dale Harris P’14 Mr. & Mrs. Frederick Haynes ‘54, P’78 Mr. & Mrs. Gary & Mary Anne Hitechew P’16

Mr. Xiang Huang P’14, P’15 Mr. & Mrs. James LaTorre P’09 Mr. & Mrs. Michael & Diane Potter P’14 Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Sanfilippo P’12 Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Sarni P’14 Mr. John Scott P’09 Mr. & Mrs. Grady Vigneau, Jr. P’12

Carol Wenmark ‘54 Lunenburg, VT Using no more than eight words, write

I give to Bridgton Academy because I feel loyalty to the school.

I like that it is special in that it focuses on providing an extra year of postgraduate education exclusively for young men who need that extra chance to make a difference in their lives.

a sentence that summarizes Bridgton for you.

Bridgton taught me to thrive amidst stressful situations.

Why would you encourage others to give back to BA?

I would encourage others to give to Bridgton Academy because they can rest assured that their dollars are not only going to a good cause, but that their gift is having an immediate impact. It costs a lot to run a school. By making unrestricted gifts, which is what I have chosen to do, the Academy can apply these dollars where they are needed most, at any given time.

Mark Lufkin ‘96 Rochester, NY Why do you give to BA?

The Bridgton faculty had a strong influence on my life, and is the main reason I give back. As a student, there were so many people who provided guidance and support: Joe Daley ‘77, Mike Fuller ‘83, Pete Gately, Sally Hapenney, Peter Horne, Doug Lyons ‘83, T.J. Mackey, Rick Marcella, John Powers, and Brad Smith.

David Hursty and his wife, Cyndy gave me my first job out of college in the profession that I am in to this day. I want to support the current faculty in honor of the past faculty who gave so much to me.

Bridgton Academy is a smaller campus without the same resources as other larger independent schools.

The administration stretches their dollars, but I want to help. In honor of my 20th reunion this year, I set up a recurring monthly contribution to provide a steady, reliable stream of support.

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Why would you encourage others to give back to BA? Annual gifts are the difference between a good education and a great one. They help provide supplemental options outside of the core academic requirements. I personally benefited from hikes to the Outing Club cabin on Stearns Pond, a preseason spring lacrosse trip to Maryland, van rides to Portland, and transportation for skiing at Shawnee Peak. Giving back is our chance to continue to provide some of the same possibilities to the next generation of Wolverines.

Using no more than eight words, write a sentence that summarizes Bridgton for you.

The year that makes the difference (think I heard that somewhere before!).

2016 B ridgton A cademy R eport

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Donor

Profiles

Alexandra Wrage, P’14 Annapolis, MD

Why do you give to BA?

Bridgton is one of few places that provide young men with an extra year to improve their academic or athletic standing, or both, in a supportive but challenging environment. Bridgton was exactly what our son needed, and I want to be sure it’s there and thriving when other families need the same resource.

Why would you encourage others to give back to BA?

We should all be invested in seeing our young men grow into sound, self-reliant and successful adults. For so many of our sons, a “bridge year” is exactly what they need to find their footing before college, giving them the best possible chance of success when they get there.

Unfortunately, there are far too few places that offer what Bridgton does so well—a place for young men to stretch, grow and flourish.

Using no more than eight words, write a sentence that summarizes Bridgton for you.

Bridgton provides a solid foundation and a springboard.

J o e D a l e y ‘ 7 7 , P‘04, P‘05, P‘09 North Bridgton, ME Why do you give to BA?

Philanthropy is something that I learned early on in my career, and giving back is something that I feel is right. I’ve given a little for a long time. Small amounts every year add up and really do help Bridgton. My life was altered because Bridgton Academy helped me to find myself. The intense one-year program allowed me to grow athletically, academically, and personally. Bridgton pushed me to broaden my school search and that ultimately resulted in my opportunity to study and play football at Colby College. If you do your part—work hard and put forth the effort—Bridgton can help you to build a future for success. I believe in the process, and that is why I give back to the Academy.

program Bridgton offers is the same for all students, each student has his own unique experience. Giving back to Bridgton is rewarding because you know that it will directly affect a student’s experience here. Philanthropy isn’t something just for people with a lot of money. It is something that anyone can do, and I want to advise everyone to slowly give back to Bridgton, a place that probably changed your life.

Using no more than eight words, write a sentence that summarizes I would ask our alumni (and their families) to imagine not taking Bridgton for you.

Why would you encourage others to give back to BA?

a postgraduate year and where your life might be. While the “Big risk, big reward.”

a special section of

B ridgton A cademy T oday

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The Headmaster’s Circle – $10,000 and Above Mr. & Mrs. Douglas & Mary Ames P’10 Mr. William T. Armour ‘67 Mr. & Mrs. Edward E. Barr P’99 Mr. & Mrs. Jeffory Begin Mr. & Mrs. Bruce Chalmers Mr. & Mrs. William Chalmers P’96 Mr. David Colella ‘71 & The Colonnade Hotel Eleanor L. Walker Trust Fidelity Charitable Mr. Kevin Giblin ‘70 Gladys Brooks Foundation

Mr. Kevin Hancock & Hancock Lumber Company Haynes Family Foundation Mr. Xiang Huang P ‘14 & P’15 Mr. & Mrs. Marc Kooperman Mr. & Mrs. James LaTorre P ‘09 & Summit International Investments, Inc. Northwestern Mutual Foundation Matching Gifts Mr. & Mrs. Norman Nicholson Mr. Edward Robson ‘50 Mr. & Mrs. Albert Symes ‘57

The Harold H. Sampson Society – $5,000 and Above Anonymous Mr. Thomas Dean ‘82 Mr. & Mrs. Vic DiGravio Mr. & Mrs. Howard Ehrlich P’94, P’98, P’13 Mrs. Carol Hamblet Mr. Dale Harris P’14 Mr. & Mrs. Gary & Mary Anne Hitechew P’16

Mr. Kevin Jones ‘81 Mr. Jack Killian ‘67 Mr. Richard Lindstrom, PhD ‘70 Macdonald Motors Mr. Jonathan Mapes ‘78 Mr. & Mrs. Michael & Diane Potter P’14 Mr. & Mrs. Grady Vigneau, Jr. P’12

The Robert E. Walker Society – The Richard L. Goldsmith Society – $1,000 and Above $2,500 and Above Mr. & Mrs. Philip Allen ‘80, P’11 Mr. Waltraud Gartzke Mr. William Pittorino ‘78

Ms. Nancy H. Armstrong ‘57 Ms. Joan Besse Bridgton Sports Camp Mr. Craig Budolfson ‘95 Dr. Bryan Burkey & Mrs. Mariana Ovnic P’16 Mr. & Mrs. Harold Damelin ‘65 Mr. & Mrs. Herbert Moutlon Col. & Mrs. Philip Saulnier ‘58 Mr. John Scott P’09

Mr. Dennis Barous ‘58 Mr. Robert Bogan ‘83 Fidelity Foundation Joseph P. Donahue Charitable Foundation Trust Mr. Roger Kellerman & Ms. Mary Armbruster P’14 Mr. Mark Carlson ‘87 Mr. & Mrs. John DeMartini P’15 Mr. Robert Dempsey ‘70 Mrs. Lucille DiGravio Mr. & Mrs. David Diller Mr. Robert Fanning ‘62 Mr. & Mrs. Gregory Fenton P’16 Mr. & Mrs. John Fisher P’94 Mr. Garabed Garabedian ‘57

Mrs. Mary Haag P’13, P’16 Mrs. Sally Hapenney Mrs. Naomi Hooper Mrs. Patricia Jackson P’11 Mr. Ronald Johnson ‘55 Ms. Susan King Mr. Mark Lauretti ‘73 Dr. & Mrs. Robert Lutz P’09 Morgan Stanley Community Affairs Ms. Maryann Morris Mr. & Mrs. James Murphy ‘65, P’03 Mr. Richard Murphy ‘63 Orbital ATK, Inc. Mr. Chris Osburn ‘00

Mr. Donald Ramia ‘65 Ms. Gretchen Reed P’12 Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Sanfilippo P’12 Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Sarni P’14 Mr. & Mrs. Christopher Standish P’16 Mr. Thomas Stevens Mr. Paul Sullivan P’93 Mr. & Mrs. Walter Swayze P’16 LTC. Joseph Sweeney ‘75 Mr. Andrew Turf ‘99 Mr. & Mrs. Christopher Whitney ‘82 Mr. & Mrs. James Young P’14 Mr. & Mrs. Richard & Susan Yule P’11

Christopher Whitney ‘82 Montgomery, NY Why do you give to BA?

My senior year in high school I was accepted to my first choice college, however, I chose to defer a year to attend Bridgton Academy so that I could improve as a student-athlete. The lessons that I learned from the entire Bridgton family in 1982 strengthened my college experience and continue to help me today in business and life.

the fastest years of their lives. About the time you figure out that departure is bittersweet, you also realize you are humbled, a little more grown up, and a lot better prepared for college and life. I’d been fortunate to grow up around this, as my parents were BA dorm parents for several years before I attended. That said, I didn’t fully understand and appreciate this until I had the chance to experience it firsthand as a student. In our 1982 yearbook, Headmaster Robert E. Walker wrote us a letter and it begins “It is ironic that people should be so happy to leave a place that they will spend the next fifty years wishing they were back in...”

Why would you encourage others to give back to BA?

At BA, students begin the seemingly long year in September, and then leave in May as part of a new family. This will be one of

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Why do you give to BA?

M at t G a l l e ry ‘ 0 9 Chicago, IL Using no more than eight

Simply put, I give to Bridgton Academy because Bridgton words, write a sentence that Academy gave me so much. It is difficult for me to express in summarizes Bridgton for you. words the size of the impact that Bridgton Academy has had The difference. on my life. Bridgton Academy expanded my view of the world, helped me to grow as a person, taught me to be a student, and gave me the confidence to excel as a student-athlete in college.

Bridgton Academy not only enabled me to get into a school that was beyond my wildest dreams, the University of Chicago, but also taught me how to be a man, and how to have a positive impact on those around me. So, I see giving to Bridgton Academy as the least that I can do.

Donor Profiles

Why would you encourage others to give back to BA?

If you feel that you would not be the person who you are today if it was not for Bridgton Academy, then I encourage you to consider giving back. By giving back you can help ensure that the next generation of Wolverines will be able to benefit from the same experience that you were fortunate enough to have.

The Alumni Top Ten

This year, Bridgton Academy turned up the heat on our Alumni Top Ten competition -- offering a prize to the top classes and the opportunity to have a place on our new Alumni Top Ten trophy! Our alumni, never shy about a bit of competition, challenged each other to step up to the plate - and the results were pretty amazing. Bridgton Academy’s Alumni Top Ten recognizes those classes who have the highest number of participants in our fundraising efforts during a fiscal year. We thank all of our graduating classes for your participation! (Rules: Soft credit contributions do not count for purpose of the Alumni Top Ten. In the case of classes with a tie of total participants, the total giving amount of the class is used to determine ranking in Top Ten.)

1. Class of 2015! (2nd Consecutive Year in the Top 10) 2. Class of 3. Class of 4. Class of 5. Class of

2014 (3rd Consecutive Year in the Top 10) 1965 (4th Consecutive Year in the Top 10) 2016 1970 (6th Consecutive Year in the Top 10)

1962 (2nd Consecutive Year in the Top 10) 7. Class of 1958 (2nd Consecutive Year in the Top 10) 8. Class of 1950 9. Class of 1986 10. Class of 1959 (2nd Consecutive Year in the Top 10) 6. Class of

Wolverine Giving

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B ridgton A cademy T oday 15

Giving

Class of 1939 Rachel Rice Deans

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Class of 1943 Luigi F. Barassi Roberta E. Young Class of 1946 Erle M. Leavitt Class of 1947 Joan Pierce Barrett Arthur S. Denison Albert Evans, Jr. Thomas E. Gay, Jr. Nancy Flewelling Holden Class of 1949 George M. Atwood Alice M. Colby-Hall, PhD Class of 1950 David W. Eaton Jean R. Holden Henry A. Knapp George R. Leadbetter Donald R. Millberry Edward J. Robson Robert B. Swain Class of 1951 Andrew A. Karkos, Jr. Class of 1952 Arthur E. Curtis C. Albert Robichaud Henry Rustigan - In Memory of Jerry Romano ‘52 & John Locke ‘52 Class of 1953 Richard E. Currier Col. Richard K. Fickett Billie MacKay Richard A. Wright Class of 1954 Edward L. Brown, Jr. Warren E. Edwards Frederick M. Haynes R. Sharley Reutter Carol S. Wenmark Class of 1955 Paul F. Flynn Donald F. Hebert Ronald H. Johnson Class of 1956 Leonard Hodgson Frederick V. Locke David A. Sampson, Sr. Nelson K. Turnquist Class of 1957 Nancy Hough Armstrong - In Memory of Capt. Claude “Duke” Hough ‘54

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Alumni

* Posthumous

John R. Crowley Garabed Garabedian Roderick A. McGarry II Albert R. Symes

Class of 1958 Dennis A. Barous Ronald S. Chofay Allan D. Denison Fredric Gauthier Kenneth Greenberg Leonard R. Hathaway L. Clarke Hill Colonel Philip J. Saulnier Class of 1959 C. Werner Anderson Robert G. Minnis George E. Mullin Philip Rackley, Jr. Edwin H. Sutcliffe Karl Wesselhoeft Robert S. Weston Class of 1960 Bruce C. Buffinton Stephen P Camuso Paul E. Flahive Merrill Thoresen, Jr. Class of 1961 Peter W. Brown Bruce W. Cargill Hugh C. MacKenzie Charles H. Spilman Class of 1962 John D. Bacheller Thomas M. Barker James M. Burek Robert R. Fanning, Jr. Frederick M. Hoy Dr. Edward W. Martin, Jr. Cole A. Proctor Ronald A. Squatrito Class of 1963 George R. Montminy Richard C. Murphy - In Memory of Mr. Robert Walker William B. Seach Class of 1964 Alvin F. Crowell, Jr. Richard J. Harlow Karl F. Nann, Jr. Mark C. Pelson Marc D. Posner Edwin O. Smith Edward J. Tobiasson - In Memory of Mr. Robert Walker Class of 1965 William Blais Mark S. Blank

Richard N. Blechman Anthony Chinappi Jeff Craw Harold Damelin, Esq. Lawrence DeSantos Col. Robert Eldridge James M. Gagne James W. Herlihy, Jr. Duane P. Johnson Wayne C. Lynch John R. Merullo John E. Morrill James S. Murphy Patrick O’Shea - In Memory of Mr. Jack Hapenney Peter C. Parmenter W. Blake Phelan Donald K. Ramia Barry A. Schlosberg Andrew G. Searle James P. White Class of 1966 Herbert M. Borden John W. Cartmill Willard H. Leavitt, Jr. Class of 1967 William T. Armour Michael J. Doyle John D. Haygood Allan L. Hoffman John T. Killian George C. Reid

Class of 1972 Dennis Caruso Wayne A. Cohen James F. Muldoon Lawrence A. Strycharz Peter O. Suneson Class of 1973 John Acton Capt. John S. Kamen Mark Lauretti John G. Sullivan Patrick F. Tria Class of 1974 Frank W. DiCristofaro Class of 1975 Wayne I. Lynch LTC. Joseph Sweeney Class of 1976 Frank A. Hackett George L. Kennedy Class of 1977 John J. Daley, Jr. Christopher J. Marion Class of 1978 Kraig M. Haynes John J. Jennings III Jonathan B. Mapes William F. Pittorino

Class of 1968 Kim E. Baron Joseph Chianciola Michael A. Cooper Donald H. Lewis Lt. Col. Thomas L. Rollins * Thomas S. Stewart

Class of 1979 Seth C. Bacon James R. Chadbourne Allan J. Fornaro Joseph Gamache - In Memory of Mr. Gordon Weeks Michael S. Maher

Class of 1969 Robert A. Phipps

Class of 1980 Philip M. Allen William R. Cusick, Jr. James K. Henry William C. Posselt John B. Donahue Daniel P. Caples

Class of 1970 Robert A. Dempsey Kevin H. Giblin Edward L. Gillis Harmon P. Hudson Richard E. Lindstrom, PhD Robert McNulty Aidan J. Moore - In Memory of Ed & Eleanor Moore J. George Reed Craig C. Wicks Class of 1971 Andrew J. Cohen John M. Kenney - In Honor of the Dormitory Cleaning Ladies David J. Colella

2016 B ridgton A cademy R eport

Class of 1981 Kevin F. Jones Edward W. Momm, Jr. - In Memory of Mr. William White John A. Neagle III Class of 1982 Thomas J. Dean Thomas G. Viafora Christopher S. Whitney - In Memory of Mr. Jack Hapenney

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G iving

Class of 1983 Robert F. Bogan Neil M. Fagan Adam D. Foley David J. Gretkowski Robert K. Hammann, Jr. Steven E. Quasha Class of 1984 Christopher M. Healey Gregory T. Thielman Jeffrey R. Zambello Class of 1985 Philip Anthes Brian B. Jones Class of 1986 Roger W. Austin Mark Dittrich Todd E. Higgins Eric B. Horn Robert Lynch William A. Milford James A. Ruhlin Class of 1987 John B. Ralsten Michael J. Sweeney Class of 1988 Todd S. Boudreau Matthew A. Burgess Daniel W. Connolly Jason R. Connolly Patrick K. Murphy Ross A. Perry Class of 1989 Robert DeCamp Class of 1990 Paul C. Carlow William E. Greable Jonathan R. Hjort Daniel J. Macke Edward J. Solek Class of 1991 Erik B. Nixon Jeffrey J. Weymouth Class of 1993 Mark E. Sullivan Class of 1994 Matthew T. Ehrlich Class of 1995 Craig R. Budolfson Class of 1996 Cory D. Carpenter Christopher D. Gaines Mark E. Lufkin Robert F. Sweeney

Nathan Chrzanowski Peter J. Dassoni Lucian Di Marco Maxwell A. Davies Class of 1998 Connor B. Demore Carl E. Barr Nicolas Dupuis-Gaudreault Scott A. Ehrlich William Dyson Jason D. MacDonald Robert B. Eldredge Jeffrey T. Ray Michael J. English Tyler Etzkorn Class of 1999 Daniel S. Fontaine Andrew C. Barr Robert E. Harris Matthew R. Berk - In Memory of Mr. Mike Fuller ‘82 & Mr. James Laferriere William M. Hay - In Memory of Nolan Robison ‘14 David M. Klausner Jeffrey S. Heinz Andrew R. Turf - In Memory of Adrian Huang Mrs. Barbara Turf Tanner P. Hyland Sean C. Mack Class of 2000 Stephen D. Main Benjamin M. Dobil Michael J. McBreen Christopher C. Osburn Matthew H. McCutcheon Jared A. Peter John L. Packer George N. Powers Grant Peacock - In Memory of Nolan Robison ‘14 Class of 2001 Troy C. Pelletier Patrick E. Pingicer John E. Pittman Nicholas A. Potter Class of 2003 Matthew R. Serra Damian P. Farley Ryan W. Shea Eric J. Rehfield ‘03 Reese Van Beber Class of 2005 Class of 2015 Benjamin E. Barchey William Aufranc Gerrit W. Conover Cameron Beaulieu Ryan Becker Class of 2009 Jason Blier David A. Brackett JJ Brania-Hopp Eric C. Clemmenson Benjamin B. Caples Matthew J. Gallery Liam A. Daley David L. Martin Cory Ellerton Nicholas C. Thieme Shea Farrell Sean Foley Class of 2010 Zachary Gilpin Nicholas Christensen Stephen Goddard Tyler Hannon Mike Greco Jacob F. Sewolt Brendan Greene Joseph Grout Class of 2011 Johan Hammarstedt Bradford W. Coffey William M. Hosking C. Ian Smith Adrian Huang Austin J. Wood Brian Huyghue Matthew Lambert Class of 2012 Steven Longfellow Samuel A. Scannell Andrew Middleton Dylan Mulvey-Welsh Class of 2013 Simiselo Ncube-Socks Benjamin L. Ehrlich Philipe Normandin Richard K. Panton Jonathan Pierce Bradley Rhoades Class of 2014 Olivier Roy Alexander Addison - In Memory of Adam Ryan Nolan Robison ‘14 Michael Schillereff Russell Bloom Jonathan R. Shepard Travis F. Bobb Jack Sutton Kevin J. Cadigan Michael T. Cerasuolo Jason Tibbetts Class of 1997 Charles E. Ellis

a special section of

Vasili Vakalfotis Matt Wendelberger Tyler Williams Jacob Worcester Jack Zaylor David Zulauf Class of 2016 Brandon T. Barnes Charles K. Berry Isaac Bosse Nicholas Clemons Joseph T. Downes Harrison R. Engstrom Quintus Hall, Jr. Tucker D. Hine Tomas Kadlec Lars C. Lauersen Noah A. Medeiros Corey R. Moses Matthew F. Pacheco Tyler J. Piechota Matthew P. Pratt Colin T. Quinn Benjamin S. Rees Olivier Roy Ryan J. Ruhlin Dylan J. Sheehan Kyle J. Skidmore Thomas Willegal Trenton B. Wright David Zulauf

B ridgton A cademy T oday 17

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Parents

Mr. Jim Allen & Ms. Cynthia Bianco P’11 Mr. & Mrs. Philip Allen P’11 Mr. Rick Allen P’16 Mr. & Mrs. Israel Alvarez P’16 Mr. & Mrs. Douglas & Mary Ames P’10 Mr. & Mrs. Samuel Andrews P’87 Anonymous (3) Mr. & Mrs. Philip Anthes P’85 Mr. & Mrs. George Antonio P’07 Mr. & Mrs. Edward Bachelder P’07 Ms. Helene Baker P’95 Mr. & Mrs. Edward E. Barr P’99 Mr. & Mrs. Charles Berg P’82 Dr. & Mrs. Paul Bizinkauskas P’16 Mr. & Mrs. Paul Blanch P’89 Mr. & Mrs. Arthur Bloom P’14 Mr. & Mrs. David A. Brackett P’11 Mr. & Mrs. Mark Brady P’16 Mr. R. Gifford Broderick P’98 Mr. Elliot Burke & Mrs. Kathy Stotter P’12 Mr. Bryan Burkey & Mrs. Mariana Ovnic P’16 Mr. & Mrs. Steven Camuso P’87 Mr. & Mrs. Daniel P. Caples P’15 Mr. & Mrs. Alfred H. Carlson P’87 Mr. John Caufield & Mrs. Susan Walz P’11 Mrs. Mary Ellen Cerullo P’86 Mr. & Mrs. William Chalmers P’96 Mr. & Mrs. William Charette P’12 Dr. Ram Chavali & Dr. Kaarkuzhali Krishnamurthy P’16 Mr. & Mrs. Jon Christensen P’10 Mr. & Mrs. John H. Clement P’03 Ms. Katherine Coffey P’11 Mr. & Mrs. John Conroy P’12 Mr. & Mrs. Michael Cook P’09 Mr. & Mrs. Sean Cosetello P’16 Mr. & Mrs. Robert Coty P’99 Mr. & Mrs. Robert Curran P’16 Mr. & Mrs. Fred Cyr P’16 Mr. John J. Daley P’04, P’05, P’09 Ltc. & Mrs. James Dalton P’03 Mr. & Mrs. John Dassoni P’14 Mr. & Mrs. John DeMartini P’15 Mr. & Mrs. Robert DeMille P’15 Mr. & Mrs. Lucian Di Marco P’14 Mr. & Mrs. Robert DiPasquale P’97, P’02 Mr. & Mrs. Francis DiTondo P’16 In Memory of Theresa O’Connell Mr. & Mrs. Barry Dobil P’00 Mr. & Mrs. William Doherty P’13 Mr. & Mrs. Paul Dolan P’15 Mr. & Mrs. Floyd Driggers P’16 Ms. Kelley Driscoll P’16 Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Ducharme P’13 Mr. & Mrs. James Durkin P’16 Mr. & Mrs. Sean Durkin P’13 In Honor of Ryan Durkin ‘13 Dr. & Mrs. Kennyon Edwards P’10 Mr. & Mrs. Howard Ehrlich P’94, P’98, P’13

Giving

Mr. George Antonio P’07 Mr. Tim Atwood Mr. Tom Austin Mr. Matthew Burgess ‘88 Mrs. Beth Chagrasulis Mrs. Deborah Cloutier Mrs. Karen Cole Mr. Sven Cole

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Alumni

Mr. Steven Eisenberg & Ms. Michelle Goodman P’16 Dr. William Ellis P’97 Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Engstrom P’16 Mr. & Mrs. Kevin Fahy P’96, P’03 - In Honor of Brendan Fahy ‘03 & Brian Fahy ‘96 Mr. & Mrs. Peter Fallon P’16 Mr. & Mrs. John Farrer P’16 Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Feeley P’93 Mr. & Mrs. Gregory Fenton P’16 Mr. & Mrs. John Finnegan P’10 In Honor of John Finnegan ‘10 Mr. & Mrs. John Fisher P’94 Mr. Thomas Fitzgerald & Ms. Frances Cantelli P’11 Mr. & Mrs. David Fontaine P’14 Dr. & Mrs. Andrew Forauer P’16 Mr. Giancarlo Francesconi & Ms. Carol Kamerschen P’16 Mr. & Mrs. William Gambardella P’14 Ms. Tara Gardner P’14 In Honor of Travis Bobb ‘14 Mr. & Mrs. Peter Gately P’04 Ms. Frances Gazzillo P’16 Mr. & Mrs. D. Michael Geddes P’11 In Honor of Thomas Geddes ‘11 Mr. & Mrs. Michael Getman P’13 Mr. & Mrs. John Giglio P’11 Mr. & Mrs. Edward Gillis P’02 Mr. & Mrs. David Giribaldi P’16 Mr. Charles Graffeo P’82 Mr. Clive Grainger & Mrs. Carole Charnow P’07, P’14 Mr. & Mrs. Gary Gross P’09 Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey Groves P’12 Mr. Steve Guarino P’16 Ms. Mary Haag P’13, P’16 Mr. & Mrs. Charles Hamaty P’07 Mrs. Kimberly Harding P’16 Mr. Dale Harris P’14 Mr. & Mrs. Bradford Hay P’10, P’14 In Memory of Nolan Robison ‘14 Mr. & Mrs. Frederick Haynes P’78 Mr. & Mrs. Andrew Heinze P’89 Mr. & Mrs. Harry Higgins P’86 Dr. Marilyn Liebrenz-Himes & Mr. James Himes P’07 Mr. & Mrs. Gary & Mary Anne Hitechew P’16 Mrs. Nancy Hopkins P’10 Mr. Eric Hosking P’15 Mr. & Mrs. Xiang Huang P’15 Mr. & Mrs. Robert Hubbard P’16 Mr. & Mrs. William Husic P’11 Mr. & Mrs. Keith Imbruglia P’16 Ms. Patricia Jackson P’11 Mr. & Mrs. Richard Jenkins P’11 Mr. & Mrs. John Jennings P’13 Mr. & Mrs. Robert Johnson P’83 Mr. George Karelas P’16

Mr. Roger Kellerman & Ms. Mary Armbruster P’14 - In Memory of Paul & Jane Armbruster Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Kelly P’00 Mr. John Kenney P’11 Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Knapp P’12 Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Lambias P’13 Mr. & Mrs. James LaTorre P’09 Mr. & Mrs. Glenn Lauersen P’16 Mr. & Mrs. Michael Lavoie P’11 Mr. & Mrs. Clifford Leaf P’11 Mr. & Mrs. Arthur Lederman P’01 Dr. & Mrs. Carl Leier P’98 Mr. & Mrs. Whit Lesure P’08, P’16 Mrs. Sandra Lewis P’90 - In Memory of Howard Lewis ‘62 & David Lewis ‘90 Mr. & Mrs. David Lis P’13 Mr. & Mrs. Ronald Lufkin P’96 Mr. & Mrs. Derek Lundberg P’09 Dr. & Mrs. Robert Lutz P’09 Mr. & Mrs. John Manni P’13 Mr. & Mrs. Paul Marston P’10 Mr. & Mrs. Michael Martin P’16 Mr. Sanford Martin P’09 Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Matz P’01 Mr. & Mrs. Larry McCarthy P’93 Mr. & Mrs. Roderick McGarry P’86 Mr. & Mrs. Thomas McKenny P’97 Mr. & Mrs. Grant McQuillan P’16 Mr. & Mrs. Mauel Medeiros P’16 Mr. & Mrs. Gerard Mergardt P’84 In Memory of Michael Mergardt ‘84 Mr. & Mrs. Patrick Mesite P’97 Mr. & Mrs. Boyd Morrison P’16 Mr. & Mrs. John Mortarelli P’16 Mr. Steven Moses & Mrs. Rhonda Rabinowitz P’16 Mr. & Mrs. John Moynihan P’13 Mr. & Mrs. Brian Murphy P’09 Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey Murphy P’16 Mr. & Mrs. Jim Murphy P’03 Mr. & Mrs. John Murray P’13 Mr. & Mrs. John Nee P’16 Mr. & Mrs. Scott Nevius P’16 Mr. Leo O’Brien P’85 Mr. & Mrs. Dana Packer P’14 Mr. & Mrs. John Paladino P’93 Mr. & Mrs. Steven Paquette P’13 Hon. Mark Peacock & Ms. Dru Spencer P’14 In Memory of Nolan Robison ‘14 Mr. & Mrs. Richard Pelletier P’14 Mr. & Mrs. Bernard Peter P’00 Mrs. Maryann Petherick P’95 In Memory of Mr. Robert Petherick Mr. & Mrs. Charles Phoebe P’01, P’04 Mr. Paul Piechota & Mrs. Lina Beccherini P’16 Mr. & Mrs. Marc Posner P’89 Mr. Jay Pottenger & Mrs. Susan Wharfe P’16 Mr. & Mrs. Michael & Diane Potter P’14 Mr. & Mrs. John Powers P’91

Ms. Louise Preti P’15 Mr. & Mrs. Timothy Quinn P’16 Mr. & Mrs. Gregory Raschdorf P’02 Mrs. Donna Rascoe Trusty Mr. & Mrs. Timothy Rector P’14 Mrs. Gretchen Reed P’12 - In Memory of Sean Reed ‘12, In Honor of Mr. Peter Gately Mr. Thomas Rees P’16 Mr. Scot Rosenthal P’15 Mrs. Catherine Rousseau P’16 Mr. & Mrs. James Ruhlin P’16 Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Sanfilippo P’12 Ms. Sarah Sansom P’96 Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Sarni P’14 Mr. & Mrs. Steven Saya P’08 Mr. & Mrs. Sean Scannell P’12 Mr. & Mrs. Darvin Schanley P’82 Mr. Douglas Schwartz & Mrs. Mary Ann Sgobba-Schwartz P’15 Mr. & Mrs. John Scott P’09 Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Sewolt P’10 Mr. & Mrs. Darryl Shampine P’15 Mr. & Mrs. Robert Shepard P’15 Mr. & Mrs. Jim Shkliew P’16 Mr. & Mrs. Michael Skidmore P’13, P’16 Dr. Rob Smith and Ms. Pilar Pueyo P’16 Mr. Edwin Smith P’91 Mrs. Valerie Smith P’11 Mr. & Mrs. Gerald Spada P’13 Ms. Pamela Specht P’01 Mr. & Mrs. Michael Spencer P’11 Mr. & Mrs. Robert Stahl P’88 Mr. & Mrs. Christopher Standish P’16 Mr. & Mrs. Philip Statser P’11 In Honor of Caleb Statser ‘11 Mr. & Mrs. Ray Stauble P’13 Mr. & Mrs. Ted Steckel P’12 Mr. & Mrs. Peter Strassell P’95 Mr. Paul Sullivan P’93 Mr. & Mrs. Walter Swayze P’16 Mr. & Mrs. Scott Sypniewski P’16 Dr. & Mrs. Alfred Thieme P’09 Mr. & Mrs. Edward Travis P’06, P’08 Mr. & Mrs. Graydon E. Vigneau, Jr. P’12 Mr. & Mrs. John Volpicelli P’94 Mr. & Mrs. Paul Webber P’16, P’17 Mrs. Christine White P’16 Mr. & Mrs. Robert White P’10 Mr. Jeff Whritenour P’16 Mr. & Mrs. Scott Wilkins P’16 Mr. & Mrs. Brent Williams P’16 Ms. Jennifer Williams P’16 Dr. & Mrs. Stephen Wrage P’14 Mr. & Mrs. James Young P’14 Mr. & Mrs. Richard & Susan Yule P’11

F i s c a l Y e a r 2 0 1 6 A c a d e m y E m p l oy e e s Mrs. Michelle Cross Mr. Joe Daley ‘77, P’04, P’05, P’09 Mrs. Courtney Doughty Mr. Travis Dube Mrs. Deb Dutton Ms. Sarah Gaines Mr. Peter Gately P’04 Mr. Mark Goodwin

Mr. Jon Hunt Mr. Aaron Izaryk Mrs. Jamie Izaryk Mr. Lee Jatkevicius Mr. Alex Kerney Mrs. Julie-Ann Knapp P’12 Mrs. Deb Kutasi Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas LeBel

2016 B ridgton A cademy R eport

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G iving

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F iscal Y ear 2016 A cademy E mployees

Giving

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Ms. Jayne Abrahamson In Memory of Mr. Joseph Walker Anonymous Mr. & Mrs. James H. Barwell In Honor of Herb Barwell ‘41 Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey Begin Ms. Barbara Bergert In Memory of Mr. William White Ms. Joan Besse* Ms. Jennifer Bonnell Ms. Eleanor Bosworth In Memory of Mr. Joseph Walker Mr. Stephen Cabana Mr. & Mrs. Stephen Cavicchi In Memory of Mr. William White Mr. & Mrs. Bruce Chalmers Ms. Soo-Ling Q. Chan In Memory of Jerry Romano ‘52 Ms. Cynthia Choate Mr. & Mrs. Bruce & Susan Cole In Memory of Mr. William White Mr. Daniel Craffey Ms. Carla Cutting Mr. & Mrs. Bruce Davis Mr. Eric Davis Mrs. Shirley Davis Ms. Mary Anne Day In Honor of Dr. Charles Dreyer Ms. Tracy Dieselman Mrs. Lucille M. DiGravio In Memory of Vicker DiGravio ‘59 Mr. & Mrs. Vic V. DiGravio III Mr. & Mrs. David P. Diller Mr. Kevin Dillon

Giving

Mr. Steven Ryan Mr. Raymond Stauble P’13 Mr. & Mrs. Grady Vigneau, Jr. P’12 Mr. Christopher Webb Mr. Ryan Webb Mr. Eric Zimmer

Mr. Gabe Miller Mrs. Gabriela Oliveira Mrs. Jessica Priola Ms. Priscilla Riley Mrs. Susan Rock Mrs. Faye Roderick Mrs. Jolene Roderick

Mr. David Lepage P’17 Mr. Whit Lesure P’08, P’17 Mrs. Binaca Macdonald Mr. Matt McAllister Mrs. Destiny McClure Mr. Michael Meserve Mrs. Amanda Miller

by

AmazonSmile Foundation Anonymous Anvil International Bank of America Foundation Bavarian Chocolate Haus Bear Mountain Inn Black Cap Grille Black Horse Tavern Bridgton Books Bridgton Highlands Country Club Bridgton House of Pizza Bridgton Ice Arena Bridgton Sports Camp Campfire Grille Corn Shop Trading Company Craftworks Deertrees Theater Eleanor L. Walker Trust Endicott College Fidelity Charitable Fidelity Foundation Firefly Boutique Flatbread Company Gateway Marina

( cont .)

Academy Friends Mrs. Betty Dyer Mr. & Mrs. James Fallon In Memory of Mr. William White Mr. Michael Ferrick In Memory of Mr. Jack Hapenney Mr. & Mrs. Wayne Fillback In Memory of James MacDonald ‘27 Ms. Theresa Frost Mr. & Mrs. John Gallant Mr. Waltraud Gartzke In Honor of Deshawn James ‘15 Mr. & Mrs. Albert Gibbons In Memory of Mr. William White Mr. Edward Hart Green III Mr. & Mrs. Julian Gregory Mrs. Carol Hamblet Mrs. Nancy Hamlin-Sullivan In Memory of Fred Hamlin ‘47 Mr. & Mrs. Kevin Hancock Ms. Anna Hanson In Memory of Mr. William White Mrs. Sally Hapenney In Memory of Mr. Jack Hapenney Mr. & Mrs. Chris Harlow Mr. Forest Hart Mr. William Hoag Mr. Chester Homer Mrs. Naomi Hooper Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Houghton In Memory of Mary Otis Reynolds ‘29 Mrs. Jessica Hunt Ms. Janet Innis In Memory of Mr. William White Mr. & Mrs. Theodore Jennings

C o m pa n i e s

and

Gladys Brooks Foundation Goodshop Great Glen Trails Green Artisan Landscape Design Greenwood Manor Inn H.B. Fuller Company Foundation Hancock Lumber Company Hangtime Wholesale Wine Company Hannaford Community Cash - Clynk Haynes Family Foundation Heaven & Earth Day Spa Highland Lake Resort Homer Foundation Horsefeathers Joseph P. Donahue Charitable Foundation Trust Kahuna Laguna Kathryn J. & Theodore E. Nixon Family Foundation Macdonald Motors Market Basket McIver Electrical Contracting, Inc. Medtronic Merck Partnership for Giving Morgan Stanley Community Affairs

a special section of

Mr. Robert Katz & Mrs. Milagros Casellas-Katz Mr. Theodore Kennedy In Memory of Mr. William White Ms. Susan King Mr. Brian Kooperman Mr. Marc Kooperman Mrs. Sarah Beth Lardie Mr. Dwight Leigh Ms. Lauren Liscio Mr. Wayne Lucier In Memory of Mr. William White Mr. H. Jackson Marvel Mr. & Mrs. Robert Marvel Mr. & Mrs. David Mason In Memory of Mr. William White Mr. Thomas McAndrew In Memory of Mr. William White Ms. Maryann Morris Mr. & Mrs. David Morse In Memory of Mr. William White Mr. & Mrs. Herb Moulton Mr. & Mrs. Norman Nicholson In Memory of Mr. William White Mr. Coley O’Donnell Capt. & Mrs. Mark Ott Mr. Paul Pagliarulo Mr. Homer Pence Ms. Alyson Randall Ms. Kathleen Routhier In Memory of Mr. William White Mr. & Mrs. John Schober In Memory of Mr. William White Mr. Tom Schultz

Mr. Matthew Shepard Mr. Robert Stalford In Memory of Mr. William White Mr. Thomas Stevens Ms. Nancy Steves In Memory of Mr. William White Ms. Elna Stone Ms. Dierdre Taylor Mr. & Mrs. William Theobald In Memory of Mr. William White Ms. Kerry Tobias Ms. Ann Tracy In Memory of Mr. William White Ms. Alison Vigneau Mr. Dean Webster In Memory of Mr. William White Mrs. Lucy White In Memory of Mr. William White Mrs. Ba White Mr. & Mrs. William White In Memory of Mr. William White Ms. Madeline Wikler In Memory of Mr. William White Mr. Timothy Wile Ms. Brenda Wiley Mr. Sandy Williams Mr. Thomas Willins Mrs. Patricia Willis In Honor of Kevin Huscher ‘14 Mr. Christopher Woodford Mr. Timothy Woodhouse In Memory of Mr. William White Mr. Ronald Zagaja

F o u n dat i o n s

Mr. Butcher Muddy Moose Muddy River Signs Noble House Inn Northwestern Mutual Foundation Matching Gifts Norway Savings Bank - In Memory of Mr. William White Olde Mill Tavern Orbital ATK, Inc. Piper Jaffray Portland Sea Dogs Proulx Oil & Propane Ricky’s Diner Ruby Slippers Running with Scissors Shawnee Peak Sportshaus Squeaky Clean Laundry St. David’s Budget Box - In Memory of Mr. William White Standard Gastropub State Street Matching Gifts Program Story Land

Sullivan Tire Summit International Investments Inc. Sweet Laurel Tai Chi Maine Target The Bridgton News The Colonnade Hotel The Good Beer Store The Greater Cincinnati Foundation The Handcrafters Barn The Oxford House The Winey Baker Town Square Realty Group Toy Chest University of Maine Hockey Village Tie Up Warren’s Florist Waters Corporation Webb Law Firm Wildlife in Bronze William Perry Cigar Lounge Wizard of Paws XL Center

B ridgton A cademy T oday 19

M e e t A Wo l ve r i n e Aaron Daly ‘04

We recently had a chance to catch up with Bridgton alumnus, Aaron Daly ’04, who is currently the Network Director of Operations for Ascend Public Charter Schools in Brooklyn, New York. Aaron attended the Post Campus of Long Island University (CW Post-Long Island University) where he graduated with a dual degree in criminal justice and computer science.

What prompted your decision to attend Bridgton Academy?

I grew up on the Lower East Side of Manhattan, and the school I attended during my freshman year in high school was pretty bad—there were gangs, graffiti, and the gym was like an oversized classroom. I would leave school early with my older friends, and eventually I was failing the first semester by five classes. As a result, I was no longer allowed to play on the school’s basketball team.

This prompted me to turn it around during the second semester of my freshman year, which in turn afforded me the chance to attend Lewiston High School in Lewiston, Maine. Although I still had that New York edge in me, I was starting to mature, and some teachers at Lewiston High School took an interest in me and my growth—Kevin Stilphen, who happened to be a Bridgton Academy Class of 1983 alumnus, and my Lewiston High School basketball coach, Jason Fuller.

Growing up in New York City, no one talked about going to college. In Lewiston, Maine, however, everyone was talking about college. Once I realized that the teachers and coaches had an actual and authentic interest in me, I slowly started to believe in what I could offer and began the journey of becoming the man I am today. This process took a while: At Lewiston, I tried harder, improved my attitude, and earned better grades. Despite these changes, I had not received any college scholarships. I remember feeling incredibly disappointed by this. It was at that point that I realized Bridgton Academy was the place for me. I needed that extra year to become the man, person, and student I knew I was capable of growing into.

Who was the most influential person during your time at Bridgton, and what was your most memorable experience?

As someone who didn’t grow up with a father, having the strong male influences I found at Bridgton—men who were invested in my success—meant a lot to me. Coach Marcella was a particularly influential person during my year. He was my football coach, but was more interested in me as a person than as an athlete. He encouraged me to enter the Academy’s annual Brown Speech Contest. I spoke about sacrifice, commitment, and dedication. I discussed the sacrifices I had made to reach that point in my life, the dedication that I had to show, and the commitment to myself that I had to live up to after realizing I was not “the best.” At the heart of my speech was the realization that I would really need to work for everything I would want out of life.

Commencement at Bridgton was definitely a momentous occasion for me. My family from New York came up and got to share the event. For them, I was the knucklehead getting kicked out of class in middle school. To have them see me go through this transformation was definitely something that changed me even more. The feeling of pride in who I was and what I was becoming is something that I will never forget.

Meet the Class of 2017 HH ee nn rr yy BB rrl aa cc kk bb ii ll ll S

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How did you first hear about Bridgton Academy, and what prompted your decision to attend?

I heard about Bridgton through a college counselor at my high school.

Unfortunately, my academics weren’t a priority in high school, which led to a lower GPA than I anticipated. For me, Bridgton represented another chance to improve my grades and get into the best possible college.

Being that Bridgton was pretty much the farthest possible place from my home in Seattle, I had to make sure that it was a good fit for me and that I was prepared to go long stretches without returning home. In the fall of 2015, my mother and I came to take a tour, and Bridgton really caught my attention. After arriving home, I began my application to Bridgton Academy, as well as to some universities that are located in the Pacific Northwest. I actually got accepted to some of these schools, but knowing the habits I created for myself in high school, I didn’t see myself succeeding. I wanted the most for my future, and this pushed me to choose Bridgton. I knew that if I worked hard, I could succeed here in Maine.

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Was it hard to pack up and move across the country? Has Bridgton started to feel like a second home for you?

I was ready to go somewhere new and try new things, but at the same time it was definitely difficult to move to a new place and not know anyone. Participating in lacrosse has given me a great group of friends to hang around with on and off the field. This has really helped to make Bridgton feel more and more like a second home. The community here is small, and it doesn’t take long to get to know most of the other students— just because we see each other all of the time. The concept of having a “dorm family” is another factor that leads to a tight-knit community. In Jillson Hall, our “parent” is Mr. Atwood, who lives in the dorm with his newborn baby and wife. Coach Swim and Coach Cockrell are the other dorm family members. Both are recent college graduates, with Coach Swim also graduating from Bridgton Academy in 2012. Seeing these three familiar faces every day helps me with the day-to-day issues that arise, and adds to the feeling of Bridgton Academy as a second home.

How is Lacrosse going, and what other activities do you plan on participating in at Bridgton?

Lacrosse is going really well. The team is doing well, and we will continue to improve throughout our offseason in the winter and during our season in the spring. The “BA Bucket List” has provided me with a bit of a ‘push’ to get out and do more things other than sleep after practice is over.

For instance, I am going golfing this Wednesday, which is something I would not be doing if not for this program. Bridgton, Maine is very different than Seattle, Washington. Going to a trail for a hike or up to the mountain to ski is a quick five-minute ride. In Seattle, I would have to travel over two hours to find a good hiking trail or ski mountain. Bridgton has provided me with an environment to do a lot of things that I would @BridgtonAcademy

What are some of the life skills that you learned at Bridgton Academy and still carry with you today?

When I arrived for my year at Bridgton Academy, I realized, “Goodness gracious me and my 5’ 10’’ frame—I have to work a lot harder than everyone else!” I tried out for the basketball team and was cut. I don’t tell a lot of people this, but I went to my room and cried. I was hurt and confused, but began to realize that I can’t just go places and expect that I’m going to be good enough. There are always people who are going to be naturally more talented, faster, bigger, and stronger. This doesn’t mean I can’t compete but that I have to work harder and smarter than these people. Ever since that time, I have tried to work harder and smarter then everyone around me.

Another experience that helped shape me at Bridgton Academy was study hall. I hold study hall and its structure in such high regard because this was the place where I realized that I had to put in more time and effort in order to accomplish the goals I set for myself. I valued the two hours of dedicated study I had at Bridgton Academy, which became three, four, and sometimes five hours once I went college. At Bridgton Academy, I learned how to study—which is a skill in and of itself. I also learned the importance of making sure I had everything I needed to study properly and to get the results that I desired. These lessons still hold true in my life as a professional today. If I have to work on a project, I sit down, put my headphones in, focus on the task at hand, and get it done. Each time, I think back to where it started: Bridgton Academy.

“Take advantage of every opportunity possible... but when you do say ‘yes’, make sure you give it your absolute all.”

You’ve held a few different positions since your graduation from college.

What is your current role, and what responsibilities does it include?

I started working in my current role in August 2012 as the Director of Operations for Ascend Public Charter Schools in Brooklyn, New York.

After four years in this position, I was promoted to the Network Director of Operations in May 2016. I am currently responsible for the oversight of nine schools. The job description for my new position includes: setting the operational vision, setting standards across all the schools, holding directors of operation accountable, managing multiple budgets, and supporting the operational managers at each location.

What has been your “coolest” life experience so far?

This might be a typical answer to such a question, but the birth of my child is one event that changed me forever. The arrival of my child really had me take a different perspective on life and what I wanted to do and provide for my family.

What message would you like to share with our recently–graduated Class of 2016, as well as with the incoming Class of 2017?

Take advantage of every single opportunity possible. If someone presents you with something, the easiest thing to do is resist and say “no.” The hardest thing to do is say “yes.” But when you do say “yes,” make sure you give it your absolute all. Someone told me a long time ago, “never submit work that you’re not willing to put your name on at the bottom of the page.” In every activity, every action, every test, and everything you do in life, you should be willing to sign your name on the bottom of the page. This reasoning has guided me well and put me in position to be successful and really give back. In the end, it’s all about giving back, and the only way to get to a point when you can do so is to give it your all, be your best, and not compare yourself to anyone else. Remind yourself every day, as I still do myself: “Be my best me.”

For more alumni stories and comprehensive class notes, visit bridgtonacademy.org to download the full digital version of BA Today! not be able to do back home, which is something I wasn’t expecting.

What are your goals at Bridgton Academy?

When I chose to attend Bridgton, I knew that it would help me become more disciplined in all aspects of life. I want to attend the best academically-rigorous college that I can, and I think that by doing my best at Bridgton, I can achieve that goal. For example, throughout high school, I consistently procrastinated. And, even though I was conscious of this, I did not really do much about it. The mandatory study hall every night from Sunday through Thursday has helped me start to eliminate this characteristic, and I think I can now carry this trait into college.

Bridgton advertises itself as a tool that we as men can use to become the best we can be in life. I would like to be the best that I can be.

get out of our comfort zones and hang out with guys we probably wouldn’t have otherwise. The sense of a family in Jillson Hall has started to form, and it’s a cool feeling.

Do you have early plans for your life after Bridgton?

My ultimate goal is to attend a four-year university.

I feel that a college education is key for me in being successful in life as I get older. It opens more avenues to explore, and it is the best way for me to find out what I want to do in life. I am thinking about doing Naval ROTC in college. This will not only help me pay for school, but also give me a job directly after I graduate. I am very aware that the jobs for college graduates are becoming few and far between, so this has prompted me to look into the Navy. For all this to become a reality, though, I know that I will have to work hard to get accepted into the best university that I can.

What advice would you give students considering Bridgton for the upcoming school year?

Make sure that you want to come to the Academy. Many students say that they want the structure and rules that Bridgton provides, but what they really want is a second chance.

To me, Bridgton is a place of opportunities both academically and athletically. I hope that Bridgton can help me achieve the things that I want, but I also understand that I have to abide by the structure that is put in place to receive these rewards.

You live in Jillson Hall—what is dorm life like?

Very good! I was lucky to be placed in one of the newer dorms here on campus. Having a random roommate is good because it forces you to meet new people, even if that makes you uncomfortable. Also, living in a dorm with all different sports teams pushes me—and other students—to

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Faculty Profile

Whit Lesure

For many, the mere mention of this revered educator evokes memories of a man who officially holds a “legendary” status at the Academy. Visions of his long-limbed gait pacing the sidelines with intense animation are seared in the minds of players and spectators alike. Among colleagues, he is an educator admired for his fierce dedication to his profession. To all, he is a one-of-a-kind charismatic leader who has bridged humor and humility with lightning focus and a competitive spirit. Ladies and gentlemen, we are proud to put Mr. Whit Lesure, the longest-tenured basketball coach in Academy history, in this edition’s faculty spotlight.

You are now in your twentieth year at the Academy. What first prompted your interest in teaching and coaching at Bridgton?

Prior to arriving at Bridgton, I had a successful and enjoyable experience as a teacher and the head basketball coach at New Hampton School. This was followed by a coaching position at the University of New Hampshire (UNH), during which time I was able to work with several student-athletes who had arrived at UNH following a postgraduate (PG) year of study. The fact that these student-athletes remained loyal to, and fond of, their PG experience led me to believe that, from a teaching and coaching perspective, working with PG students would be a very worthwhile and meaningful endeavor. I had already decided that, should I get the opportunity to work at a PG school, I would do it even better than I was doing it at New Hampton School. This was my primary goal.

You have won six AAA championships and helped take the Academy’s basketball program to new heights. What is the secret to you and your team’s success?

The same secret that every coach who has enjoyed success has had: “good players.” I have been lucky to coach an awful lot of special young men at Bridgton, with as many of them members of our non-champion teams as those who were on banner-winning teams. In my first interview at Bridgton, I will never forget the Athletic Director at the time, Brad Smith, asking me quite directly: “What are your keys to motivation?” The answer to this can be found in the relationships I build. By hook or by crook I have been able to develop positive relationships with the guys who I have taught and coached.

What do you find most inspiring, and most challenging, about your work with Bridgton Academy students?

Fundamentally, the challenge for me is the same at every professional encounter here: the dynamics of a one-year program. I don’t think a student can last here if accepting challenge isn’t at least part of his DNA. It’s probably the success stories that come in so many different sizes and shapes, and that transcend the playing fields, which are the most inspiring. This is to say, that for everything we give young people, what we get back is typically greater in the grand scheme of things.

What does “The Year that Makes The Difference” mean to you?

It means I better be on my game if I am going to deliver the goods to the people who I work for and with. And, I might add, none of it works without one Edward Mastro ’08, aka “the fixer”; my wife, Marybeth; and our family.

Please tell us about one of your favorite memories during your time at Bridgton Academy thus far?

I’ll give you two: 1) Pulling into the town of Bridgton for the first time. My U-Haul came off the ball and went skating across the road, an auspicious start that a few folks around town still remind me of when I’m feeling pretty good about myself. 2) Most of the special memories happen in the moment. This year, the most special thing that is already unfolding is the opportunity to be in this fishbowl environment with my son, Jackson. Actually, I’ve got three for you: 3) I certainly will never forget picking myself off the floor at Ricky’s Diner in ’09 when I thought I was having the “big one” (heart attack). Luckily, I am not a very good doctor, and my diagnosis was way off.

Is there anything else you would like to share?

There are a lot of folks and a lot of students who have put their heart and soul into this place for a long period of time, and that helps me get up in the morning every day and contribute what I might also be able to offer.

22 | BA TODAY autumn 2016

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Visit http://bridgtonacademy.org/2017/02/class-notes-fall-2016/ to see our CLASS NOTES from Fall 2016! /BridgtonAcademy1808 @BridgtonAcademy

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To find out more about what’s going on at Bridgton Academy, including event calendars, sports schedules, profiles and more, visit www.bridgtonacademy.org. Alumni Class Notes are also available via the online version of BA Today – Accessible via our home page.

Please feel free to contact us any time at 207.647.3322. To sign up for our biweekly e-newsletter, email alumni@bridgtonacademy.org.

All Over the World!!

Know a future Wolverine? Contact BA Admissions at admissions@bridgtonacademy.org

The Class of 2017 has traveled from all over the world to attend Bridgton Academy... our students represent: AUSTRALIA THE BAHAMAS BRAZIL CANADA CHINA COLOMBIA

EL SALVADOR FRANCE GREAT BRITAIN ISRAEL MALI MOLDOVA

NICARAGUA PANAMA SWITZERLAND THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES