The Light Summer 2023

IN THIS ISSUE:

OUR MISSION

Guided by the Quaker belief that there is a Divine Light in everyone, Brooklyn Friends School cultivates an intellectually ambitious and diverse community that celebrates each individual’s gifts. We challenge our students to value and embrace difference as they develop critical thinking skills and apply their knowledge and intelligence both in and out of the classroom. In this rich learning environment, we inspire all members of our community to voice their convictions, to discover and pursue their passions, and to seek truth. Our graduates are compassionate, curious, and confident global citizens who let their lives speak in the spirit of leadership and service.

THE LIGHT

116

brooklynfriends.org

Brett Topel, Director of Communications & Marketing

Emily Cowles, Associate Director of Digital Content & School Events Manager

Peter Mackie, Design, Advancement, & Data Systems Specialist

Joyce Duverce, Director of Advancement & Strategic Partnerships

Jay Rapp, Assistant Director of Strategic Initiatives & Alumni Relations

Cover Photo by Joseph Gomez Magazine Layout and Design by Peter Mackie

A MESSAGE FROM OUR HEAD OF SCHOOL

CRISSY CÁCERES

Head of School

Dear Brooklyn Friends School Community,

As we embark on a new academic year, and I begin my fifth year as head of our mighty school, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude and eager anticipation to welcome both familiar faces and newcomers to our vibrant community. At Brooklyn Friends School, we cherish our shared commitment to the Quaker principle of Community, which lies at the heart of our school’s identity, shaping our interactions, decisions, and aspirations and forming the very foundation of our human-centric educational journey that enriches our lives in immeasurable ways.

Here, we recognize that our strength IS due to our diverse humanity, our willingness to vulnerably share it, and in our uncompromisable commitment to justice on all fronts. As such, translating this to the building blocks of school, here, we learn how to activate the values of collaboration, empathy, and dynamic citizenship. While I sit with sadness at the fact that what for us is an absolute truth, for others in our world, these convictions are up for debate, I remain committed to having our

school be an example of what can be. I am confident in this quest because at BFS we KNOW that it is through our beautiful and necessary differences that we gain a deeper understanding of ourselves, our neighbors, and our world.

In today’s rapidly changing world, the need to uphold the value of Community is more critical than ever before. We find ourselves navigating complex challenges, where divisions and misunderstandings threaten to fragment societies. We stand amidst a time where members of the highest court in our country’s land have utilized their power of infl uence to reverse decisions that have profoundly altered history—decisions whose purpose was to increase access to opportunities and a deserving life of dignity and worth for many historically marginalized people. We are caught in a moment where our actions upon the environment for generations have resulted in the earth speaking back and letting us know just how much it is hurting, and imploring us to help and consider how we live our lives. The moment is now for us to BE beacons of hope, and BFS changemakers of positive social impact.

Brooklyn Friends School has a moral obligation to continue cultivating a community where open dialogue is modeled and utilized, where we actively seek to comprehend and collaborate through varying perspectives, and where kindness and understanding triumph over judgment and division. The true meaning of Community at our Quaker school lies in the

connections we forge, the bonds we nurture, and the lasting impact we create daily—together. An example of this was our Community Design Day, which was an important step in our year-long Strategic Planning Process. On that fateful day in January, with over one hundred people present, it was clear that all voices had meaning, and that every person had the ability to be their authentic and full self. On that day, as is true on many, our community was not merely a place of shared learning, but a crucible of personal growth, where families, colleagues, trustees, and alumni alike were empowered to embrace their convictions and contribute meaningfully in a manner that will serve to further the promise and value of our school for years to come. It is with boundless enthusiasm that I look forward to sharing the results of our process at a joyous reveal experience this fall.

In the spirit of Community, let us all strive to be exemplars of the values we hold dear, fostering environments where understanding and unity flourish. Let us continue to support one another, lifting each other up during times of struggle and rejoicing in our collective achievements. Let us cherish and build upon our commitment to belonging, for it is the foundation on which we attain a more just and compassionate world. Within and beyond BFS, let us lead by example, unabashedly sharing our light and using our voices for good in a society that too often seems divided. Through our collective efforts, I am certain that we can create a grand magnitude of positive change that will reverberate far into the future. As we step forward into the coming year, may the Quaker principle of Community be a prominent guide.

Now, with pride and a deep appreciation for the spirit and identity of Brooklyn Friends School, I invite you to sit back and read every page of this magazine, which highlights various elements and impactful voices that punctuate how we LIVE Community.

With gratitude for the privilege of serving our remarkable school,

READ OUR STORY ON THE STRATEGIC PLANNING PROCESS ON PAGE 28

Q&A WITH THEODORE GOODMAN SR.

Director of Safety & Security

Tell me a little bit about where you grew up...what was it like?

Myself and six other brothers and sisters grew up in various poverty-level neighborhoods of Brooklyn in the 1960’s. We lived in the rundown tenements of Brownsville, East New York and Bedford Stuyvesant. Although I would never admit this when I was a youngster, we might have grown up poor, with not a lot, but we were rich in spirit and love. We were taught to respect our elders and never to judge anyone no matter who they were or what walk of life they came from. We never disrespected anyone because of their race, and when we went to school, the teachers got our utmost respect and attention because—although education was free—it was very valuable to my family. Back in the spring of 1966, I was outside playing with my friends, while my mom and other parents sat on the stoop, and we witnessed our first riot, which suddenly broke out out of nowhere in the middle of the street. I can still hear it and picture it more than 50 years later. It definitely had an effect on me, as did the rest of the 1960s. Overall though, we had a pretty good childhood and everyone on the block learned to live like a big happy family and looked out for each other.

Why is it meaningful to you to be the Director of Security at BFS?

I really love the people here at BFS, the entire community, and I love what I do. I also really enjoy being able to be a mentor for some. My favorite part of the job is resolving issues and bringing calm to situations.

Tell me a little about the security team here at BFS?

My team here at Brooklyn Friends School is really terrific. Each one has their own special gifts and all of them share the same top priority—the students’ and colleagues’ safety. What I really respect about all of the people that are on the BFS security team is that I can ask just about anything from anybody, and they don’t think twice. It’s a top notch team and they make us proud every day.

What do you like to do when you are NOT at BFS?

One thing for sure is that I like a good laugh, and I like to have fun. I love dancing, fishing, and walking. Also, I have been an

Around these parts, Theodore Goodman Sr. is better known simply as, “Goody.” As the Director of Safety & Security at BFS since 2016, Goody’s No. 1 priority is to keep all of BFS’ students and colleagues safe and sound. Prior to coming to BFS, Goody had many jobs, including being a private investigator, Fire Safety and Security Director at MetroTech, and was a certified Emergency Medical Technician and Instructor.

active Freemason since 1990, and we do a lot of charitable things for the less fortunate. The Freemasons are an organization of people who believe in brotherhood and helping others.

What is your favorite food, why, and where do they make it best?

I really like Soul food, Spanish food, and Japanese food. It is hard to say why I like all of these varieties of food, but I will tell you the truth, my wife calls me a “foodie” because I love just about every kind of food.

Q&A WITH DANIEL PACCIONE Interim Head of Upper School

Tell us a little bit about where you grew up and what it was like?

I grew up in North Massapequa on Long Island. My parents were the first in our family to move out of New York City and move to the suburbs, which meant that we spent every weekend coming into the City to see family. As a result, I grew up with an affinity for the city. We were only a 15-minute drive to the beach, so I have strong memories from my childhood from Jones Beach getting pummeled by the waves of the Atlantic.

You have been at BFS since 2020, but this coming school year you will be making the giant step to Interim Head of Upper School. What were your initial thoughts when you were offered the position?

I was really excited about the opportunity to continue the great work that Kamaya has led over the past three years. We have worked in collaboration with the Upper School colleague body to build an intentional community of belonging and care for our students. I feel a great pressure to continue this work at the highest level possible.

Now that you have had time to process it, what are your first thoughts in preparing for this coming school year?

In the final weeks of the school year we heard reflections from both students and colleagues about their school experience this past year. My first priority is to work with the Upper School leadership team to welcome them to their new roles and review this feedback to determine our strategic priorities for the next school year.

At commencement, one of the senior speakers made it a point to say how much you mean to all of the students. What was that moment like?

That moment was incredibly unexpected and heartwarming. I was in a bit of disbelief. Everything we do in the Upper School is centered on our students, and I am so happy to hear that the work we do is received as authentic and meaningful.

What challenge are you looking forward to most in the new position?

I’m excited to get to work and want to make sure I keep this in mind as I enter the year—there’s always something that can be worked on, but saving time for myself and my family is equally as important to ensure that I am feeding my whole self. This ensures that I am bringing my best to every interaction and moment with students, families, and colleagues.

What do you like to do when you are NOT at BFS?

One of my favorite things to do is to walk with my dog, Ziggy. We

Daniel Paccione has been the Assistant Head of Upper School at BFS since 2020. However, starting this September, Daniel will be the Interim Head of Upper School! Before arriving at BFS, Daniel was the Deputy Head of School for Learning and Academic Support at EF Academy, an international school in Westchester. Little-known fact: Daniel has traveled to 48 countries and looks forward to growing that list!

love to explore new neighborhoods in the city and find great hikes in upstate New York.

What is your favorite food, why, and where do they make it best?

The one dish that I have come back to time and time again is curry laksa. It’s a noodle soup that is popular in Malaysia and other regions of Southeast Asia. It’s hot, spicy, savory, and has loads of flavor and texture. You can get laksa in a number of great restaurants across the city, but my favorite is from Laut, just outside of Union Square.

COMMENCEMENT 2023

On Friday morning, June 9, the Class of 2023 performed its final act by simply crossing a stage wearing a cap and gown. One of the least challenging things they have accomplished in their time at BFS was also their greatest achievement. When that short walk was completed, the Class of 2023 instantly morphed from BFS students to BFS alums—just like that. It marked the 113th time that BFS students have made such a journey and this year, 49 proud BFS graduates made their way across the stage at The Theater at City Tech.

“Before I begin, I just have to take this moment in,” said BFS Head of School, Crissy Cáceres, directly addressing the Class of 2023. “It’s quite a moment and one that we have worked very hard to make happen. I applaud you all so much for everything that you’ve made possible.”

Crissy then made her opening remarks, before revealing that it was—in fact—ChatGPT that had written those words to the delight of the entire auditorium. ChatGPT, of course, had been—and has been—on the top of everyone’s mind. “Graduates, this is the world that you are inheriting. One in which in less than 30 seconds you can have a bot generate ideas that have been fueled by hundreds of years of human engagement and thought. … Remember, that it is within your own souls that the answers to our human challenges exist.”

Other speakers included Board of Trustees Co-Chairs, Ed Oliver and Penny Windle, colleague speaker Mark Buenzle— who spoke about his years growing up “playing” teacher and his 35 years at BFS. His overall message was to always, “pay attention.” (Much more about Mark on page 32) Class of 2023 student speakers Chelsea Haye and Juna Waugh, who each had a unique, personal message about the journey that led them to the podium that day.

The Hon. Dena E. Douglas—a New York Supreme Court Justice, who starred on the basketball court and the stage at BFS and graduated exactly 40 years ago—delivered the distinguished alumni address. (Much more about Dena’s speech on page 15). Student performers included pianists Ruby Luzzatto and Liam Cotter DeFehr, who each performed original compositions.

The ceremony culminated with words from Head of Upper School, Kamaya Prince Thompson, addressing the group, followed by the presentation of diplomas. Assistant Head of School, Daniel Paccione, read each student’s name and the walk across the stage was completed. At once, 49 students became alumni. Then, came the final act— the hat toss—which led to cheers and tears! Congratulations to the Class of 2023. Blue Pride!

ZAVIER CRUICKSHANK

You exhibit an incredible balance of natural empathy with astute critical analysis in all of your classwork, and that will take you far in your desired field of forensic science. BFS will miss your kindness and your sense of humor. Good luck at Liverpool John Moores University!

You carry a bravery that helps you take on new, unexpected experiences with openness— from becoming a dedicated member of the volleyball team to taking on work in the fields at your farm stand job. Good luck at Brandeis University!

You bring a spark to the room, whether you’re reflecting on your most recent work at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, or a discussion in class. As a teammate, you’re the one to step up as a leader, to rally the team, and to jump in when needed. Good luck at Brown University!

You are a beacon of Blue Pride! In the truest sense of “friends forever,” you bring people together and rally them around a shared mission, whether it’s for Spirit Week, Prom, or enjoying the outdoors. Good luck at the University of Denver!

Your vivid imagination reflects the many influences you seek out, from art and comics to math, and law. You’re an insightful and perceptive young person who meticulously takes in so much of the world around you. Good luck at the University of Richmond!

You embody a level of empathy and care that is rare for people your age. From your classes to your extracurriculars, you are a connector. We have admired your pure heart, as you have always shown genuine concern for those around you. Good luck at Syracuse University!

Whether you are teaching your peers about financial literacy, displaying true sportsmanship on the field, or sharing your love for animals, you take the necessary steps to make the world around him a better place. Good luck at McGill University!

You are an intentional listener who has constantly demonstrated rich inner questioning and reflection. Your love of creating and moving is all the more dynamic. You take in so much about the world around you and apply it to what you make and do. Good luck at Colby College!

We have valued the ways in which your growth as a person and a scholar is as a result of your creative side. Through your beautiful paintings, to your musical aptitude, and even your cooking, you fully immerse yourself in all that you do. Good luck at Vassar College!

We know that you will create, innovate, and chart your own path and are proud of your dedication to playing the saxophone. We will be cheering you on as you strive toward work in the music industry. Good luck at Loyola University New Orleans!

NADIA ABADZIS

ZOE BARTSCH

CALDER A.H. BIEHLE

SEVI BUTLER

LUCA CAVOLI

COCO COLLEY LIFETIME FRIEND

LIAM COTTER DEFEHR LIFETIME FRIEND

XAVIER DAVENPORT-PARKIN

We appreciate that you are the kind of person who notices the smallest detail because you are always listening and paying close attention to community members. You have truly embodied the Quaker values of our school, seeing the light in all. Good luck at Wesleyan University!

What makes you so special in our community is that your maturity comes with a goodnatured sense of humor and creativity. Your imagination and ingenuity is something you share widely and generously. Good luck at Lafayette College!

Your eclectic tastes and often quirky point of view lend you a bit of Burtonesque air in the Brooklyn Friends community that’s warm, whimsical, and curious. Good luck at Smith College!

Your teachers share that you are a motivated and ambitious student, seeking every opportunity to deepen your knowledge and share it with others. You always make sure that you—and those around you—are held to the highest standards. Good luck at NYU College of Arts and Sciences!

Your sense of purpose and passion drive you to learn thoughtfully, create meaningfully, and share your point of view in the written word. Good luck at Sarah Lawrence College!

Your teachers share that they will miss your incredible sense of humor. Your positive spirit has brought the 3rd floor commons to life each day as you laugh, dance, and connect with friends. You are known as being friendly, empathetic, and kind to all. Good luck at Ithaca College!

You are intellectually curious, engaged in the fight for social justice, and committed to cultivating a sense of belonging for all. You consistently demonstrate what being a dedicated and caring leader looks like. Good luck at Yale University!

You played an instrumental role in bringing the Upper School building back to life following the beginning of the pandemic. Your warmth, terrific sense of humor, and optimistic outlook on life has been a gift to us all. Good luck at Barnard College!

You are a great collaborator, and a consummate listener who shares your own ideas as well as consolidating others in a way that encourages productivity and creativity. You have a wonderfully imaginative mind. Good luck at Rutgers University!

You are a one-of-a-kind artist and tinkerer—attentive to detail and function, with a sensitive eye for aesthetics, and a dry sense of humor. We’ll miss the special way that you see the world around you.Good luck at Wesleyan University!

SAM ELLIOTT

ROWAN EMERY

EMIL ENGELKING

MAYA EVANS

ISABEL GEORGIADES

ARLA GRAHAM LIFETIME FRIEND

CARSON GREGORY LIFETIME FRIEND

ZACK GREGORY LIFETIME FRIEND

VEGA GULLETTE LIFETIME FRIEND

COLEMAN HAMILTON

You bring a genuine, openminded curiosity to the spaces you enter and an abiding kindness to the communities you’re a part of. Good luck on your next steps!

You have a special way of making connections between your roles as a student, an athlete, and a community member that take on real meaning and make a positive impact on our community. You are truly a “doer”! Good luck at USC!

You have a deep capacity to push yourself out of your comfort zone and learn meaningfully from doing so, whether in the classroom, with student government, or as an avid backpacker. You have left a lasting impact on the Upper School. Good luck at NYU!

If one of your classmates wants to learn an unexpected fact, you are absolutely the person to go to. We’ve been so lucky to have your take on the world as a part of the community! Good luck at Macalester College!

As the Editor-in-Chief of our newspaper, The 116, you’ve developed and shared your voice as a leader and a writer. We have also enjoyed watching you on the Meeting House stage in the Dance Concert. Good luck at Wellesley College!

You are a student of multitudes—an entrepreneur with a track record of creativity, a commanding public speaker, and a passionate advocate for equity and justice. Good luck at Washington University in St. Louis!

You go out of your way to greet everyone you pass and ask how their day is going. It has been a pleasure watching you share your gifts with our community on stage in dance and theater productions. Good luck at University at Buffalo!

We admire your ability to draw connections between what you’re learning and the world around you. Thank you for always being such a kind and friendly BFS community member! Good luck at Brooklyn College!

You have a special light within you—one that comes with humor, curiosity, and a readiness to dream. Even amidst the rigor and challenge of schoolwork, you see a real power in learning and hold that close to your heart. Good luck at Johnson and Wales University!

You are a changemaker through and through. You embody many of our school’s Quaker values, with the most central one being equality and use your voice to build a better world. You lead with heart and action. Good luck in the future.

CEDAR HART LIFETIME FRIEND

CHELSEA HAYE

BEZAWIT HOUGH LIFETIME FRIEND

ANAÏS CERINA IRIZARRY

SARAH JONES

MAURICO LARCO LIFETIME FRIEND

BEN LIEBERMAN

MIRIAM LIZ

SAMANTHA LOPEZ

RUBY LUZZATTO

It’s exciting to see how you make sense of the things on your mind because you express yourself dynamically through multiple mediums, be it creative writing, drawing, or one of your popular video edits on social media. Good luck at Occidental College!

You bring a depth of care and warmth to all that you do. Your kindness and creativity will be missed in the Upper School! Good luck at McGill University!

You truly understand the connection between ideas, people, and the work it takes to bring them together in service of doing good. In the pool and in the classroom, you share your bright light with those around you, and we are grateful. Good luck at Williams College!

Your eagerness to grow and experience new things has taken you across New York City, the country and the world. Your bravery, and dedication to positivity and growth is unmatched.Good luck on your next steps!

We’ve loved witnessing your artistic talents blossom, be it through music, theater, or art. You are as much an artist as you are an intellect. Good luck at Vassar College!

You have shown that you care deeply about others’ feelings and drop everything around you if there’s a friend in need. We have enjoyed witnessing your love of baseball, as you’ve established yourself as one our stand-out players. Good luck at Occidental College!

You lead by example with empathy and enthusiasm. Even after tough losses, you congratulate your teammates on a job well done and work to lift their spirits. As a BFS community member, you always offer a helping hand or a warm smile. Good luck at University of Leeds!

You light up so brilliantly when sharing your interests, which are eclectic, distinct, and deeply explored. Seeing your artwork in the hall or overhearing one of your conversations, it’s clear that you’ll bring thoughtfulness and heart to all you do. Good luck at Dickinson College!

Your energy and imagination are unparalleled, finding stories in the unexpected and relishing the fine details that might otherwise go unnoticed. Your creativity and humor are bright spots in the Upper School and will be missed. Good luck at Trinity College Dublin!

You bring your full, true self to all that you do, as well as deep care and thoughtfulness. Your maturity and stewardship inspire trust, whether it’s as a leader for our student ambassadors, or friend to BFS kindergarteners. Good luck at Boston College!

LUELLA OTTMANN LIFETIME FRIEND

ANGUS PARKHILL

EMMA FORSANS

EZRA RICHTER

CARTER ROEBUCK LIFETIME FRIEND

ANTHONY ROGERS

CHE ROSE

MILLA SA

AARON SALETT LIFETIME FRIEND

ALICE SEBBAH

Your talents with the written word, teaching, and guitar are delivered with a maturity that’s fueled by a deep sense of purpose and creativity, making you a valuable part of our community. Good luck at Occidental College!

Your creative expression has shined in English as much as in Art. We’ve all been in awe of how your careful observations of the world translate into your powerful art. Good luck at UCLA!

You can masterfully articulate complex issues through an intersectional lens. You call out injustices, while offering thoughtful solutions. In every space that you occupy, you hold others to high standards, expecting that all around you act in the name of equity and justice. Good luck at Sarah Lawrence College!

Your presence brings kindness, curiosity, and desire to understand others, whether that’s in the classroom, working on the yearbook, or setting records as a runner! Your contributions to our community will be long remembered! Good luck at Wesleyan University!

We admire your dreams of transforming the lives of young people, especially children, inspiring them to tackle big social issues while committing yourself fully to their care and development. They know that you will cultivate a positive and uplifting environment. Good luck at Skidmore College!

You are easy to talk to and full of insights, as well as someone who brings a brightness to conversations, whether about sports, art history, or philosophy. You make everyone feel like a friend! Good luck at Loyola University New Orleans!

No matter the setting, you are known to be a problem-solver. You are equipped with a strong sense of self, a level heart, and a defined moral compass and understand how to help others walk away from any situation feeling like they were heard and understood. Good luck at Boston University!

Of the Quaker S.P.I.C.E.S, very few people embody “Community” quite like you. You have shown that you care deeply about the spaces that you occupy. Whether leading our Model UN team, or sharing your gift of performance, you always bring your full self to our community. Good luck at Pitzer College!

Every fiber in your being emits our BFS core Quaker values of stewardship, integrity, and community. You use your voice and platform to raise awareness about environmental issues in a way that is urgent but not preachy and inspires others to make a change. Good luck at the University of Michigan!

NISHA EMILIA SIEDLER

JAKE TENTLER

RAIA THOMAS

JANE TILLEM

CHRISTINA UKADIKE

WILLA UMANSKY LIFETIME FRIEND

OONA VALI

HANNAH VINSON

JUNA WAUGH LIFETIME FRIEND

DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI SPEAKER: HON. DENA E. DOUGLAS ’83

Exactly 40 years after graduating from Brooklyn Friends School, the Hon. Dena E. Douglas ’83, stepped up to the podium to deliver the Distinguished Alumni Address. It was the second time she had the honor, but this time felt a little sweeter. And, she said proudly—with a smile—sets her up for the three-peat 10 years from now.

“Step into the world with the greatness of who you are,” she told the Class of 2023. “I want you to walk away from today with a deeper connection to our school.”

She went on to offer words of inspiration to the class.

“Embrace your uniqueness,” Dena said. “Diversity within the Brooklyn Friends community is what sets us apart and brings us together. Never be afraid to stand out and be your true, authentic self.”

A Lifetime Friend at BFS, Dena has been a Justice of the New York Supreme Court 2nd Judicial District since January 2022. Prior to being elected to the New York Supreme Court, Dena was elected as a Kings County Civil Court Judge, worked as a senior advisor to the attorney general of the

EMBRACE YOUR UNIQUENESS. DIVERSITY WITHIN THE BROOKLYN FRIENDS COMMUNITY IS WHAT SETS US APART AND BRINGS US TOGETHER. NEVER BE AFRAID TO STAND OUT AND BE YOUR TRUE, AUTHENTIC SELF.

District of Columbia, and served as a Kings County assistant district attorney. After graduating from BFS, Dena received her B.S. from Northwestern University and her J.D. from St. John’s University School of Law. Dena’s brothers—Duane ’81 and Brian ’77—also graduated from BFS. She is also a devoted mother who enjoys exploring New York City’s art and theater offerings with her children.

It should also be noted that while at BFS, Dena was a star point guard for the basketball team and played the lead role in the musical, South Pacific.

“Success is not measured solely by external achievements,” she said. “But by the impact that you have on others and the world around you.”

CLASS OF 2023 ADMITTED SCHOOLS

Schools in blue are those that members of the Class of 2023 have chosen to attend.

1 Indicates number of students accepted to a school.

* Indicates multiple students are attending that school.

American University 4

Amherst College

Arizona State University (Main Campus)

Bard College 7

Barnard College

Bates College

Bennington College

Boston College

Boston University 3

Bournemouth University 2

Brandeis University 4 *

Brown University 2

Bryn Mawr College 2

California Lutheran University

Carnegie Mellon University

Case Western Reserve University

Clemson University

Colby College

Colgate University

College of Staten Island CUNY

College of the Holy Cross

Concordia University (Montreal)

Connecticut College 2

CUNY Brooklyn College 2

CUNY Kingsborough Community College

CUNY New York City College of Tech.

CUNY York College

Davidson College

Dickinson College

Drew University

Drexel University 3

Eckerd College

Elmira College

Emory University 2

Fordham University 3

George Washington University 2

Goldsmiths, University of London 2

Goucher College

Hampshire College

Haverford College 2

Hobart and William Smith Colleges 2

Hofstra University

Ithaca College

Johnson & Wales University (Providence)

Kenyon College 2

Lafayette College

Leiden University College The Hague

Lewis & Clark College 2

Liverpool John Moores University

Loyola University New Orleans 3 *

Macalester College

Manhattan College

Manhattanville College 2

McGill University 3 *

New York University 4 *

Northeastern University 6

Northwestern University

Oberlin College 3

Occidental College 3 *

Old Dominion University

Olin College of Engineering

Pace University (New York City)

Parsons School of Design at The New School

Penn State University (Harrisburg)

Penn State University (University Park)

Pitzer College

Pratt Institute

Purdue University (Main Campus)

Reed College 3

Rhodes College

Rochester Institute of Technology

Rutgers University (New Brunswick) 2

Sarah Lawrence College 3 *

School of the Art Institute of Chicago

Scripps College

Skidmore College 6

Smith College 2

St. Francis College

Stony Brook University

SUNY at New Paltz

SUNY at Purchase College

SUNY Buffalo State University 2

SUNY College at Geneseo

SUNY College at Old Westbury

SUNY College at Potsdam

SUNY University at Buffalo

Syracuse University 3

Temple University 2

The American University of Paris

The New School 2

The University of Edinburgh

Trinity College

Trinity College Dublin 2

Tufts University

University of Arkansas

University of Bristol 3

University of California (Davis)

University of California (Los Angeles) 2

University of California (San Diego) 2

University of California (Santa Barbara)

University of California (Santa Cruz) 4

University of Denver 2

University of Glasgow 2

University of Hawaii at Manoa

University of Houston

University of Huddersfield

University of Leeds 2

University of Maine

University of Michigan 2

University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill 2

University of Notre Dame

University of Oregon 3

University of Oxford

University of Richmond

University of Rochester

University of San Francisco 2

University of Southern California

University of Sussex

University of Vermont 6

University of Virginia (Main Campus)

University of Wisconsin (Madison) 2

Ursinus College

Vassar College 6

Wake Forest University

Warren Wilson College

Washington University in St. Louis 2

Wellesley College

Wesleyan University 5 *

Willamette University

Williams College

Xavier University of Louisiana

Yale University

SOMETIMES, IT ONLY TAKES TWO YEARS TO BE A LIFETIME FRIEND

By BRETT TOPEL

From the beginning of time, which—to be clear—around these parts is 1867, there have always been many entry points to BFS. Whether a student comes for their final two years of our Upper School, or is a Lifetime Friend, the phrase “We Are Brooklyn Friends School” applies forever, no matter the length of time spent here. It certainly applies to Ruby Luzzatto, who has seemingly crammed a lifetime into her two years at BFS.

When Ruby’s family arrived in Brooklyn from Washington, D.C. in 2019, her two younger siblings—Emerson ’25 and Maeve ’27— enrolled at Brooklyn Friends School. It wasn’t until 2021, in her junior year of high school, that Ruby arrived. However, to say she has made up for lost time would be an understatement.

From the day she walked into Lawrence Street, Ruby immersed herself into school. In addition to excelling academically in the rigorous IB Program, Ruby was in two school dramas—She Kills Monsters and Trouble With Dead Boyfriends—as well as playing jazz piano and singing in a band. She was the team captain of the Varsity Basketball Team—one of her favorite activities—and, as a senior, won the Coach Mike Petelka Blue Pride Award. She was also a leader within the Social Justice Committee, and—at her graduation ceremony—performed a piece of music that she had written herself.

“I always feel I want to get as much as I can out of life,” Ruby said. “It’s a lot, but the best advice I have gotten is to be present. That means no thinking of homework when you’re at basketball

I’LL MISS IT—BOTH BFS AND CHILDHOOD. I THINK LEAVING HIGH SCHOOL IS A CALL TO ACTION.

practice. Just be where you are and do what you’re doing at that moment to the best of your ability. That’s what I attempt, at least.”

The intentional choices that Ruby has made about what activities to participate in have been a big reason she can be successful, despite the long days.

“I mostly do things I like, so I am not really ever unhappy with what I am doing at any specific time,” she said. “It’s a lot of work and I am having fun.”

One of the things Ruby is most proud of is the work she has done on the Social Justice Committee at BFS.

“I have been to three private schools, I am a white girl in Brooklyn, and have had this position of extreme power,” Ruby said. “I feel like I have to do something. I can be pretty vocal about things, but the biggest thing that the Social Justice Committee has taught me is when to not talk. And that sometimes my ideas are not the most important. Learning how to support an issue without drawing attention is something that I think everyone needs to learn how to do.”

BFS Head of Upper School, Kamaya Prince Thompson said Ruby serves as an example to her classmates and all students at BFS.

“She is the epitome of a BFS student,” Kamaya said. “We can certainly see the light in her, and she sees the light in everyone else.”

While it seems perfectly clear that Ruby has an impressive workload for an 18-year-old, school is actually just her day job. Even before turning 18, Ruby challenged the New York City system and petitioned to be a County Committee Representative for her neighborhood. In New York state, the County Committee is the most local, ground level of party governance. And in New York City, each borough has its own County Committee.

Brooklyn’s is the Kings County Democratic Party. Among a County Committee’s responsibilities: attend meetings, elect party leadership, help fill judicial vacancies, and vote on matters brought to committee, including party rules. Ruby wanted the job.

“I actually had to go to court because when the campaigning process started I wasn’t 18 yet,” she said. “It was actually kind of fun. I had to have my parents get the signatures on my petition and I walked with them to advocate for myself. When I went to court on Zoom, I had no legal representation, so I represented myself, and they eventually agreed to allow me to run.”

In June of 2022, now 18 and running unopposed, Ruby was elected to Rep her block, actually a four-block within an area known as Council District 35.

“It was really the culmination of a lot of work,” she said. “I will say though, the meetings can be insane, with people shouting at each other. You think you know what bureaucracy is, and then you come to one of our meetings.”

This is, however, just the start of what Ruby hopes will be a robust political career.

“I want to reform government,” she said, matter of factly. “I want to make democracy work, that is my goal. We call ourselves a democracy, but we have to act like one.”

As she looks back on her two years at BFS, she will think of all she has learned, the powerful teachers she has had, and the friends she has met. However, make no mistake, Ruby Luzzatto is ready to move forward. She is currently considering prestigious universities in the United States and abroad, and there is little doubt that she will continue to make an impact on the world.

“I’ll miss it—both BFS and childhood,” she said. “I think leaving high school is a call to action.”

FIRST GRADERS BRING GARDEN BUGS TO LIFE

By BRETT TOPEL

In a school with more than 700 students, it is extremely difficult to capture all of the exciting things going on at Brooklyn Friends School on a daily basis. The fact is, there are so many exceptional things going on in all of our classrooms that it is impossible to document every single moment. Thankfully, our teachers do an outstanding job of keeping families informed through photos, newsletters, and more!

There was one classroom performance that caught our eye, however, this past spring. First grade students in 1A—led by teachers Michael Rae-Grant and Lia Albuquerque—performed a play about Helpful Garden Bugs for their families, fellow BFS students, and colleagues. It was truly uplifting and outstanding and heart-warming and a lot more adjectives. The performance focused on ladybugs, earthworms, and honey bees.

“It’s springtime, the leaves are green, the flowers are blooming, and the ladybugs are laying their eggs,” is how the first first-grade lady bug introduced the performance. That led into the first song of the show, which was a rousing adaptation of the Beatles’ Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da, except the lyrics—re-written by Michael and Lia, with all due respect to John and Paul—were changed to, and the chorus sang (you know the tune):

Yes siree, soon they’ll be little larvae; lots of ladybug larvae; Yes siree, soon they’ll be little larvae; lots of ladybug larvae.

After learning a lot more about the work that ladybugs do in the garden, the performance transitioned to feature the earthworms, who of course, had their own theme song (and dance), as well.

Then, the line of the show was uttered during a conversation between two of the earthworms.

“Did you see that?” one earthworm asked another. “No, I did not see that, because I am an earthworm, and I don’t have eyes, and neither do you!” That brought a moment when a line in a small play about garden bugs delivered ever-so-innocently, actually brought all of the adults—and most of the children in the room— to actually laugh out loud.

Soon, it was on to the next featured garden bug, the honeybee, who sang and danced and explained all that they did in the garden to be exceptionally important. Honey, was featured prominently.

Overall, the performance by each and every first grader was simply amazing. They knew their lines and songs, sure, which is impressive, but more than that, they exuded pure joy in showing off all they had learned about helpful garden bugs. Bravo, 1A—to you and your teachers and all of the specialists that helped you achieve garden bug glory!

SIXTH GRADERS STAND UP FOR CHANGE

By BRETT TOPEL

When two sixth graders approached Kevin Murungi, BFS’ Director of Global Civic Engagement and Social Impact, about their desire to educate our community about gun violence, he wasted little time. He reached out to a former student of his, Frank Teah, who is currently the Program Director of New Yorkers Against Gun Violence, and invited him to speak to our Middle School students.

In April, BFS’ Middle School students had the opportunity to hear—not just from Frank—but from the two sixth graders who started this entire initiative. Eva and Tess, who are current event journalists for The Panther Post, explained the purpose of the gathering—to educate students on an unfortunate topic that impacts all of us. They explained how guns are now the leading cause of death of children in the United States.

As Kevin mentioned to open the Collection, Tess and Eva reaching out with a desire to lift up an important issue in the Middle School community, and engage their peers in reflection on what they can do to effect social change, is exactly what he is here to support and what drives the work of the Social Justice team.

“As children who sympathize with those who have gone through this, and are scared for ourselves and our peers, we want to discuss with you a bit about how we can learn and make change,” Eva and Tess told the students gathered in the Meeting House.

I THINK IT IS REALLY IMPORTANT TO HEAR YOUNG PEOPLE’S VOICES. WE DON’T HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO SPEAK UP AS MUCH, BUT IT’S IMPORTANT BECAUSE WE ARE THE NEXT GENERATION.

The pair, who are extremely well-versed and well-spoken on the subject—not to mention very comfortable sharing their knowledge with their peers—went on to recite statistics and facts showing the prevalence of different types of gun violence.

Following their presentation, they introduced Frank, whose overall goal is to equip all of his students with a clear understanding of how power dynamics and systems shape our everyday experiences, and how they can use their knowledge and voices to help advocate for themselves and others.

One of the most powerful lines that Eva and Tess wrote shines a bright light on why this issue is not only important, but absolutely one that must be addressed in every possible way—ensuring that change takes place. “It’s gotten to the level where kids are concerned to just be kids, scared for their safety,” they said.

“Facilitating this process and imparting students with the confidence, agency, and legitimacy in their immense capacity as societal changemakers is something I am proud to do,” Kevin said.

TESS AND EVA KEVIN MURUNGI

BFS NINTH GRADERS GET THE ATTENTION OF PRESIDENT BIDEN

By KEVIN MURUNGI Director of Global Civic Engagement & Social Impact

Ninth Grade Seminar is a critically important leg in the journey of a Brooklyn Friends student. Students in the class are introduced—and re-introduced—to the values and practices of the Brooklyn Friends School community. Students learn principles of Wellbeing with Alexa Galberth; Quakerism with Brian Sullivan; Diversity Equity, and Belonging with Dr. AnaMaria Correa; Global Civic Engagement and Social Impact with myself; and Study Skills with Maman Cisse .

For the Global Civic Engagement and Social Impact (GCE & SI) portion of the class, I work with students to identify a social justice issue of their choice to delve into, research, explore intersections with other issues, and take action on. Essentially, over the course of the semester, we engage in a social impact project, exercise our global citizenship and build towards continued activism and advocacy on an issue of importance to the students and our communities. This is in line with the goal of the GCE & SI department of supporting students in developing their global competence, i.e. the behaviors, values, attitudes and skills that prepare them to thoughtfully contribute to a diverse and interconnected world. Things like shared responsibility and cooperative action, empathy and humility, reciprocity, media literacy, collaborative problem solving, etc. All these are essential in our work addressing the challenges facing our communities and developing active global citizens at BFS.

In the fall, 9th grade seminar group one took on the issue of Gun Violence Prevention, D Period worked on Reproductive Rights and, in the spring, G Period tackled the Opioid Public Health Emergency. All three classes did excellent work as learners, researchers, activists and advocates. They all followed the same overall map in their project:

Step 1. Learning what it means to engage in social impact work

Step 2. Identifying an issue

Step 3. Education and awareness building

Step 4. Examination and analysis

Step 5. Action planning and implementation

I could write an article about the efforts of all three groups, but for now, I would like to highlight the work of the class that chose

to focus on reproductive rights, and how that led several of them to correspond with President Biden.

After arriving at consensus on the issue, the class set about grasping the basics of Roe v. Wade, unpacking the implications of its overturning, and investigating the resultant intersectional consequences. They looked at the example of Ohio and how the decision was adversely affecting black women in that state. They engaged in study on how maternal mortality rates were likely to increase across the board, especially for marginalized and vulnerable populations. They also examined the correlation between the decision to overturn Roe v. Wade and domestic violence and homicide rates. This deep dive into a seismically important and potentially triggering topic was conducted with great care and attention to student wellbeing. It centered women’s rights to bodily autonomy, and examined access to abortion as a human right. Students reflected on the fact that abortion is a medical procedure, and a healthcare need for millions.

After rigorously assessing the issues, our students took action. They were happy to learn that, while federal protection of abortion access had been stripped away, New York was among a handful of states that still protected abortion rights. They closely scrutinized an interactive map to see which states do not. Then, using the knowledge gained on this issue through our work in the class, each student wrote a unique and personal letter

to President Biden asking him to do more to protect abortion access. Each letter spoke to why the students felt the issue was so important and exactly what was at stake. The letters also spoke to what steps students intended to take in their continued activism, organizing and advocacy on reproductive rights.

The level of thoughtfulness and passion evident in the letters warranted, and received, several response letters from the White House. As one student, Avital, put it in her letter to the president: “I am a fourteen year old girl, and I am a freshman at Brooklyn Friends High School located in Downtown Brooklyn. In all of my life, I have never really had to be scared of what my future as a woman would mean for me. I am very lucky to be living the lifestyle I do, being able to go to the school I do and surrounded by family with never ending support. That was until just last year. It was the moment I heard not only that Roe v. Wade got overturned, but the fact that it was even up for debate in the first place. It’s mind boggling not only as a young woman, but as a human being living in the twenty-first century that people have the right to tell me what to do with my body. I’ve heard horror story after horror story from the past, key word past, but never had I imagined anything like that happening in my lifetime. Yet here we are.”

The real surprise came several months later, however, when Avital—and some of her classmates—received letters back

from President Biden. In his response letters to the students, President Biden thanked each student for writing to him and asserted that access to reproductive care is health care. He highlighted the Executive Order he signed that safeguards access to reproductive health care services, protects the privacy of patients and promotes the safety and security of providers of reproductive health care services. He encouraged our students to continue to make their voices heard and demand that Congress enshrine the protections of Roe v. Wade into federal law. The President also directed students to ReproductiveRights.gov to find out more about the right to access reproductive health care.

“I didn’t expect a response from anyone, let alone the President himself,” Avital said. “Just knowing that I have some control, not only in my country, but in my own life because as a woman this issue does affect me immensely. I mean, we don’t even have the right to vote yet, so we don’t have a say who is in power in our country, so using our voice to bring attention to issues like this is important.”

President Biden, and all elected officials, should know that BFS’ ninth grade seminar class—and its students at large—will continue to hold their feet to the fire when it comes to social justice and promoting and protecting human rights. It is who we are and what we do.

ON TO UPPER SCHOOL!

The Class of ’27 enjoyed two unique end-of-year celebrations this past June—the annual Moving Up Ceremony—and the inaugural Eighth Grade Recognition Ceremony. The new tradition—conceptualizaed by Crissy, Kathleen, the 8th grade team, and Middle School

leadership—acknowledged and “pinned” each member of the 8th grade. There were also SPICES High Honors, which were bestowed upon six eighth graders, who were nominated by their classmates.

I’M NOT QUITE DONE WITH MIDDLE SCHOOL

By THEO LEVITT

’26

My life at Brooklyn Friends School began in the Blue Room. One of my earliest memories was seeing giants walk the halls, and it was only later that I understood that these were students from the Upper School. Twelve years later, I am one of those giants, having just wrapped up my first year in the Upper School. It was a year marked by exciting challenges and dynamic growth, both academic and social. Nothing, however, was as meaningful to me as the work I had the opportunity to do with the PEP class, Newsday Tuesday.

By far, one of the best experiences of my ninth-grade year had me making my way back to Pearl Street twice a week, to help teach and facilitate the class, which is part of the Middle School’s Panther Enrichment Program. Assistant Head of Middle School for Academics, Kathleen Clinchy, and BFS Director of Communications and Marketing, Brett Topel, were putting together a news show, with middle schoolers as reporters, and asked me to help out. I didn’t hesitate to say yes because, to be honest, I was excited to get back to Middle School.

Due to the pandemic, I only had the opportunity to spend two full years of my Middle School live in person, but I can report that they were the best years of my BFS experience so far. All of the teachers, students, and faculty are incredibly joyful, uplifting, and motivating to be around. During my time as Student Council President last year, across all of my ambitious ideas, whether it was starting a podcast, or creating the inaugural Middle School Olympics from scratch, I could always count on Kathleen for help and guidance. So, I knew an experience like Newsday Tuesday would be no different.

So there I was, back in a classroom on the 4th floor of Pearl Street, where a group of 15 middle schoolers gathered to brainstorm story ideas, select stories for a newscast, write scripts, and film interviews. We worked on a two-to-three week cycle, at the end of which Brett would edit the footage into a

10-minute episode to be published in the Middle School Daily News (the morning announcement page).

The kids I worked with showed curiosity and excitement. Kathleen and Brett were never less than optimistic that the students could deliver on their ideas. We covered a range of topics including international news, with a report about the earthquake in Syria and Turkey. We also covered local news, with a review of Norm’s pizza (the plain slice was the winner). At the beginning of the calendar year, the students even interviewed their Middle School peers about their hopes and dreams for 2023. They learned how to ask good open-ended questions and move beyond yes-or-no answers. They worked in groups and relied on each other to be good group members. It truly was a privilege to be on such a creative and dynamic team.

Being part of Newsday Tuesday also helped me realize that Middle School is not just what comes between Lower and Upper School. From the outside looking in, I learned just how transformative these four years can be. The students who wrapped their last Newsday Tuesday newscast in late May hardly seem like the same people who walked into the classroom for that first day of PEP back in September. They’ve been through a lot and grown a lot. That’s how it goes in Middle School. You start fifth Grade not knowing how to turn in an assignment on Google Classroom and finish eighth Grade with the ability to write 600-word essays.

I am so grateful I had the opportunity to support their transformation this year. It feels good to give back to a place that has given—and continues to give—me so much.

READY TO MOVE UP AFTER FIVE GREAT YEARS IN LOWER SCHOOL

By JOHN TAVANTZIS ’31

I’ve been at BFS since I was in Kindergarten. The thing I loved most about the Lower School is that when teachers are teaching, they explain the lesson one way and if you don’t understand it, they will explain it a different way until you understand. The teachers never give up when they are teaching you, and they will go through many different ways to explain it until you understand it.

One thing that was very fun for me in 4th grade was the New Amsterdam model. It was really a lot of fun. It was an activity where everyone could be part of a team, and personally I had the honor of making the windmill, one of New Amsterdam’s most popular features! There were also other exciting features like the Wall, the New Amsterdam Fort, and Bowling Green.

Something I’m really looking forward to in Middle School is that I’m going to have a lot more responsibilities and the opportunity to be more independent, which I’m ready for! I’m also excited about the new sports that we are going to do in PE, and that there is now the Junior Panthers, because personally I love sports.

I’m a little nervous about the homework since I heard it’s a lot from the rising 6th graders, but that should be a piece of cake with the teachers that are going to be teaching us next year.

And that’s why I love Brooklyn Friends!

JOHN & FRIENDS

4TH GRADE MOVING UP CEREMONY

ROAD TRIPS

By ELIZABETH KELLY ’30

As we drove out of Brooklyn, excitement filled the air, like when you blow up a balloon so much it nearly pops. The trees are now speeding by, streaks of brown, green, and yellow. Soon whispers of songs start creeping through the bus. Now, everyone is singing “99 Bottles of Louis” at the top of their lungs and out of key. The teachers are cracking up and filming us. A warm feeling fills the bus. Community. It’s funny how that popped up. Now the song, “The Wheels on the Bus,” is being sung. Eventually, it quiets down, and we go back to chatting.

Soon, we arrived at Fairview Lake Camp. We filed off the bus and made our way with our luggage to a huge cabin across the street. We arrived at our own cabin and noticed that it was more like a house. It had a front porch that stretched the length of the cabin. There were two front doors and when you walked through the rough wooden frame you came into a small area with a black fridge, stove, and a plastic table. It had a living room in which there were four couches.

We then headed for the docks, where we found rowboats. We set off at a slow pace and drifted into the cove and ran aground. Tyler, our teacher, came to the rescue and pushed us out of the cove. It was soon time to paddle back to shore. We took our life jackets off and go back into the forest.

There, we had a small science lesson about food webs. Later that night, we sat by the campfire and sang songs. We then had a short night hike before heading off to sleep.

Too soon, sunlight fills our eyes and waking up begins. The sound of zippers pulling duffles closed and soft chatter added to the excitement of the new day. Everyone then heads down to the courts—some go to the kickball field, some go to a beach volleyball court, others head to the basketball court. Laughter drifts through the air.

The smell of cinnamon drifts through the air like a quiet wind. Seconds, thirds, everyone needs more. Soon, we split off again and made our way along a dirt pathway. We arrived at a clearing and discussed what humans need to survive. We then run off with groups to build shelters. Teamwork. We did bark peeling, stick collecting, and building. Once the shelters were done, everyone headed back to the clearing for the winner of the challenge. The group whose structure was the most sturdy would be the winner.

A cool breeze made our clothes rustle as we took our last looks at Fairview Lake. Silence stretched on. Gratefulness drifted around our quiet circle. The moment of silence for the first time felt anything but boring. So much had changed, and so much would change, but we will always be in the Class of 2030.

By ZOE HAYES-CULHANE ’29

My classmates and I eagerly awaited the announcement about who our bus partners would be for our highly anticipated trip to Silver Lake Camp. We had been looking forward to this trip for weeks and couldn’t wait to finally experience all it offered.

Sitting with all of my friends, trying to get my half-broken Polaroid camera to work, we sat quietly and waited for our partner’s names to be called. I was overjoyed when my best friend got called as my bus partner! On the bus, we sat up front near some of our friends while the middle of the bus was quite hectic and immature. Skipping some time, by the time we all arrived at the camp we were pretty exhausted. As we arrived, we made a U-turn and almost hit a chicken coop.

When we arrived, we were told our bunks and I was with five of my friends in a cabin called Cedars. After everyone got their stuff set up, we all went to the dining room where

SILVER LAKE CAMP

By CATALINA SKINNER ’28

One of my favorite stops on our BFS trip to Philadelphia was when we visited the Eastern State Penitentiary. We entered the jail through the big metal gate, and the first thing I noticed were the massive walls surrounding the entire prison. This State Penitentiary is a museum so there are no inmates.

From their website: Eastern State Penitentiary was once the most famous and expensive prison in the world, but stands today in ruin, a haunting world of crumbling cellblocks and empty guard towers. Known for its grand architecture and strict discipline, this was the world’s first true “penitentiary,” a prison designed to inspire penitence, or true regret, in the hearts of prisoners. Its vaulted, skylit cells held nearly 85,000 people over its long history, including bank robber “Slick Willie” Sutton and “Scarface” Al Capone.

we all had our home-packed lunches. When lunch was over, we played a maze memory game, then switched to a ropes course in the middle of the woods. The one I decided to go on was called the Octopus, where everyone would choose a square made from wood about the height of around 25-30 feet with four ropes that drop to the floor for everyone to hold and maneuver so the person trying could get across. I had gotten to the line first, so I was the first person to try it. I must admit I thought some people were going to make everything a lot harder, but it turned out to be quite fun and bonding.

Later that night, we went back to our bunks and got ready for bed. When I woke up the next morning, I saw my friends all hopping onto my bed before I was even remotely NEAR being awake, I’m hit with a stuffed animal. After breakfast, we were all split into our groups and played games and made “go-carts” (it was nothing like a go-cart, you could only fit a ball in and it was made with pipes). After lunch, we headed back to Brooklyn.

We sat down with our guide, and our guide gave us an overview of the prison’s history. It was so cool to learn all these interesting facts about a century’s old prison. We went inside, which frightened my two friends and I because it was a bit rusty, and we were scared to get tetanus.

Later, we got to go into an old cell that had been taken over by nature and it was beautiful. We went back outside where we learned about past escapes. Only five people had ever successfully escaped.

We saw a graph of how many more Americans are incarcerated compared to the rest of the world and how many of them are people of color compared to everyone else. It was sad, but a so really interesting. While everyone else went to go get water, my friends and I went to see an exhibit on incarceration today. It was really an enlightening experience, and this is just one of the many amazing things we did on our trip.

FOR BFS, THE FUTURE IS NOW

By BRETT TOPEL Director of Communications & Marketing

Consistent with the Quaker practice of continuous revelation— Brooklyn Friends School has been evolving since first opening its doors in 1867. While mindful and respectful of much of our past, we are extremely excited for our future—and at BFS, the future is now!

For the past 12 months, Brooklyn Friends School has been undertaking what can only be described as a robust and dynamic Strategic Planning process, not just to find out what we do, but to truly learn who we are—and who we want to be. One thing was known going in is that any plan needed to be bold, courageous, and have actionable, measurable commitments. This would not be a plan that was written and tucked away on a shelf for posterity. This process will begin to shape today, as well as tomorrow.

“It’s important for us to acknowledge that a strategic process cannot be static,” Crissy said. “It has to be something that is iterative and reflective of the incredibly dynamic and vibrant breadth of everyone who is a part of our community. It also has to be something that engages voices beyond ourselves. This will be a living, thriving, experiential component of our school’s contemporary history, and eventually, its legacy.”

From the very start of this process, it has been extremely clear that the school’s vision for the future would be only as

exceptional as our community was willing to dream. The commitment to this process has not simply been to write a plan, or map our future, but to identify a North Star—an Inner Light— to guide our community to the promise of a better future.

“I have to say that it has been incredibly gratifying to see our community come together in such a connected and impactful way,” Crissy said. “Everyone has willingly inserted their energies, their brilliance, and their love into this process. Everyone has been laser focused on ensuring that this process allows us to shine the very best light on who we are and also to magnify the possibilities in front of us.”

As has been well-documented, BFS partnered with industryleader Leadership + Design to complete this critical project. The mission and values of Leadership + Design are very simple, very clear, and very much consistent with those of BFS. “We build the capacity of leaders to be reflective change makers, optimistic futurists, and human-centered design thinkers,” is how L + D’s mission statement reads. That mission was—this past fall— imparted to 20 members of the BFS community who had the profound responsibility of being on the Strategic Planning Team. Composed of members of the leadership team, colleagues, parents, and Trustees, the SPT examined the school from every angle, every vantage point, and every scenario.

As that work came to a close in May, it was time to draft the framework of the formal plan, and present it—first, to the Board— and then to the BFS community. SPOILER ALERT: The final Strategic Plan will not be unveiled here. That will come this fall. For now, we wanted to share how we arrived where we are at this point in time.

The two major factors in the process were the dedication of time and hard work—not just by the 20-member Strategic Planning Team, but of our entire community. That became extremely evident in late January, when BFS hosted its first-ever Community Design Day. More than 100 members of the BFS community—including colleagues, former colleagues, Trustees, parents, and alums—packed into the Upper Gym for a day of imagining all that BFS could be. The day started with optimism and, as it progressed, the mood changed to enthusiasm, excitement, and pure joy. The future of BFS, indeed, appeared to be in good hands.

“It’s been really interesting to think expansively and broadly about the future of who we can be and who we want to be,” Co-Board Chair Ed Oliver told those in attendance. “I am really excited for us all to be here—please think about all of the hopes and wishes you have for this school and the many ways we can be greater than we already are.”

The SPT worked throughout the spring to analyze Community Design Day, solidify our priorities, refine the overall approach, and turn some of the general thoughts into very specific goals.

“It was overwhelmingly beautiful to see how clear and united a vision for our school came from our interactions,” said Salomé- Galib, who along with husband Duane McLaughlin, are the proud parents of three lifetime friends, and have been in our

community, serving in various capacities for many years. “It was wonderful to see how deep and obvious an understanding of that vision was across stakeholders on the committee and among the stakeholders who joined us for the community day. We have been at the school for 16 years, and we are forever grateful for the impact our school has had on our children, their future, and their community—but are excited to anticipate how much younger BFS students will benefit from the work we have done to position our school for the future.”

Positioning our school for the future is not something that is rose-colored and is not something that can be completed in a day, or a month, or a year. However, one thing is certain, this process analyzing our institution—it has been much more personal than that.

“This strategic planning process has both a professional and personal component to me, because it is an additional step in a journey that has been defined by a lifelong commitment to justice and to community,” Crissy said. “ I am so proud to be at the helm of a school that is willing to challenge itself in ways that will help to shape future years in our society. What greater purpose can there be to a strategic orientation when that purpose is people. At the end of the day, Brooklyn Friends School stands for its commitment to people—and the experience of human beings and individuals in our world—and that is something really beautiful to stand for and to stand behind, and to see through.

SCIENCE STUDENTS HONOR CURIOSITIES

Science plays an integral role in all of the divisions at Brooklyn Friends School—from the youngest students to our graduating Upper School seniors. This past spring, there were two specific events that caught the attention of our community—the IB Group 4 Science Project and the 8th Grade Science Fair.

“Thank you for honoring your curiosity,” Head of School, Crissy Cáceres, told the 8th graders at their science fair. “A science fair is all about recognizing that when you are curious about something, it’s worth digging deeper. It’s worth asking the questions. Continuing honoring your curiosities, because especially at this time, many want you to have the answers, but we want and need you to stay with the questions.”

Members of the Class of 2023 presented their Group 4 Projects, immersing the third floor of Lawrence Street into the world of science. Under the watchful eye of teachers Lucien Kouassi, Charles Fulco, and Heather Phan, the IB project encouraged the eight teams of five students each to appreciate the environmental, social, and ethical implications of science.The prompt this year: “Why is blue so rare in nature?” The title of the project: “Blue Pride Runs Deep.”

The Group 4 Project is an interdisciplinary activity that involves science students in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Technology. The goal is to have students from the four subjects work collaboratively and bring their unique approaches to solving a common problem or topic.

Rather than being a result-based research, the Group 4 Project is instead a collaborative, process-based, and evidence-based research. Among the blue “creatures” selected by the students were: the Blue Lizard, Blue Poisonous Dart Frog, Indio Milk Cap, Blue Glaucus, Royal Blue Tang, Blue Jay, Blue Sky Mushroom, Blue Lobster, and Blue Iguana.

“Ultimately, the science department is poised to start a conversation, which we hope will transform our students in the way they view themselves as scientists,” Lucian said. “Moreover, the science department wants to install in our students the joy of cognitive thinking and make science as mundane as being ‘cool’.”

Similarly, the students in 8th grade had the opportunity to show off their science chops at a fair for their peers and families. Science presentations filled the cafeteria at Pearl Street, as students explained and demonstrated their projects, overseen by Earth Science teacher, Katie Bradley.

“We really want students investigating, asking questions, and having curiosities, but also making mistakes,” said Nitya York, Head of Middle School. “The scientific process is 100-percent about making mistakes over, and over, and over again, until you are narrowing down your thinking, and your theories, and your hypothesis into something that you can stand behind. Especially in science, we are asking our students, ‘how do you know?’”

BFS ARTISTS SHOW OFF THEIR INCREDIBLE WORKS

The BFS Visual Arts Department once again put together an awesome display of artwork for both the annual All-School Art Show, as well as the Senior Visual Arts Show.

As we state proudly, in part, on our website, BFS’ Visual Arts program is a cohesive, developmental sequence that spans kindergarten through 12th grade. Throughout the program, students are exposed to the history of art, looking at the work of many artists and civilizations to inspire and excite their own work. The curriculum includes work in a broad range of media including drawing and painting, sculpture, ceramics, woodworking, photography, and video. Students also have the opportunity to travel to local art shows, installations, and museums, and often get to work with professional artists both in and outside of their classrooms.

This stunning senior exhibition, which spread across two floors of the Upper School, was the culmination of the IB Visual Arts Program and two years of incredibly detailed and hard work by the dedicated students and colleagues. The inspiring show, which was planned, curated, and installed by the student artists, was one that anyone who was able to view it will remember for a long time.

One of the BFS senior artists saw their IB Art Project go viral! KAWS—the New York-based, world-renowned artist, who is known for designing limited edition toys and clothing—was so impressed with Luca C’s project—he shared it on his Instagram page! Yes, his IG account has 4.4 million followers! During an event at the Brooklyn Museum Gala, KAWS was shown Luca’s purse, which was made from cereal boxes, and absolutely loved it and posted it to his story. It was a great capper to a great Senior Visual Arts Show.

A few weeks later, In one of the most-anticipated events of the school year, the All-School Art Show once again was on full display. Hundreds of incredible pieces of student-created art in countless formats were featured in both the Pearl Street and Lawrence Street buildings.

As always, the exhibition filled the Lower Gym and hallways of Lawrence with ceramics, drawings, paintings, printmaking, photographs, and mixed media. The show celebrated the unique perspective and talents of students, which reflect the ambitious imaginations and diversity of the creative minds of Brooklyn Friends School.

MARK BUENZLE AND THE ART OF TEACHING AT BFS

By BRETT TOPEL

As Mark Buenzle stepped to the podium as the Colleague Speaker during the Class of 2023 Commencement this past June 9, he looked out at the more than 500 people staring back at him at that moment. Of course, he went on to give a rousing speech, one—in fact—that was actually 35 years in the making.

“I feel very honored to have been chosen as the faculty speaker at graduation, although I wish every one of my Upper School colleagues could give a speech,” Mark said prior to speaking. “This is an amazing group of people to be a part of, and I have the highest regard and deepest affection for them.”

Having people listen to his remarks is nothing new to Mark, albeit it is usually in a less formal setting. Still, when you have been a teacher for 35 years—all of those at Brooklyn Friends School— being the “speaker” is certainly not unusual. His speech that morning stressed the importance of “paying attention,” something he has been doing since he began his long journey as a teacher in his early 20s. It began even earlier, if you include the years he pretended to be a teacher growing up, however, he arrived at 375 Pearl Street in the fall of 1988.

“Still working on my master’s degree at Bank Street, I’ll forever be indebted to Diane Mackie, then the Head of Lower School, for taking a leap of faith and hiring me as a head teacher for kindergarten,” Mark said. “I had been interviewing at several New York independent schools, but when I arrived at BFS, I had a powerful sense that I belonged here. Clearly, I was right. At that time, Jennifer Knies was the administrative assistant for the Lower School, and the way she welcomed me at the beginning of my interview made me feel like I could bring my full self to this place. And that continued with all of my interactions. The atmosphere was qualitatively different here than any other school I had been to, including my own schools as a child. I immediately perceived a sense of ease, trust and fellowship in the way people interacted with one another, among colleagues, among students, and between colleagues and students.”

Over the years, Mark has only strengthened that belief, forging so many important relationships with BFS students and colleagues. He credits a very simple explanation for why he has remained here for all of these years.

“Obviously the students and my colleagues are my primary reasons,” he said. “I love and rely on the Quaker values we share. In a culture that increasingly emphasizes consumption,

distraction, immediate gratification and transactional relationships, the ethos of Quakerism is more and more necessary. Social justice, goodness, community, and integrity are all nurtured by our shared silence.”

However, it has become more than just a job for Mark, who credits being at BFS for much of his life and career decisions outside of school.

“On a more personal level, Brooklyn Friends has always encouraged me to grow and to use my strengths in our community,” he said. “After teaching kindergarten here for seven years, when I completed my MFA, I expressed interest in moving to the Upper School to teach art and art history, and the school honored that wish. Similarly, BFS has supported my work as a psychoanalyst from the time I began my training, through certification and licensure, and building my own private practice. In fact, for several years, I was able to offer a yearlong psychology class to 11th and 12th graders that I really loved teaching. So I’ve never outgrown my job, it has grown with me.”

Now, 35 years after first stepping into BFS, Mark cannot imagine being anywhere else.

“I feel incredibly grateful to have a career that has given my life meaning at every stage, that has given me some of my most cherished relationships, and that still excites me year after year,” he said. “My 24 year-old self could not possibly have imagined anything 35 years in the future. It is still strange to think of myself as currently being the teacher with the longest experience here. How did that happen? Who would I be if not part of this school?”

FAREWELL, FRIENDS

On June 14, Brooklyn Friends School colleagues gathered in the third-floor commons of the Lawrence Street building to pay tribute to three special peers. Serving for nearly a combined 50 years at BFS, Maura Eden, Karen Edelman, and Kamaya Prince Thompson, were celebrated by their fellow colleagues, many of whom were moved to tears during their remarks.

In 2002, Karen Edelman joined the BFS community along with her two young children. Her daughters, Sophie and Lily, were Lifetime Friends, graduating in 2017 and 2020, respectively. Karen, in her own right, has become a Lifelong Friend as well, as she has shepherded our community through two decades of successful fundraising efforts and—of equal importance—community building. She has overseen countless events and campaigns, all because she believes so deeply in the transformative opportunity of a Brooklyn Friends School education, and a commitment to its future for children. BFS is grateful for Karen’s stewardship of our community through many seasons and for the truly effusive energy she brought through the doors of Pearl Street each day.

The 2022–23 school year marked Maura Eden’s 25th at Brooklyn Friends School, the arc of which has spanned from dance teacher, to preschool classroom teacher, to the leader of our Preschool division, a role she held for nearly 11 years. Our community knows Maura also as a parent—her children, Daniel and Anna, graduated from BFS in 2006 and 2010,

respectively. As a colleague and leader, we recognize Maura by her steadiness, her patience, and the beauty with which she guided children and colleagues through their journey at BFS. Maura’s Inner Light shines brightly, and we have all felt its warmth.

At a most interesting and challenging time in the landscape of education, in summer of 2020, Kamaya Prince Thompson, then Dean for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice and Faculty Growth and Development as well as English teacher at the Hawken School in Ohio, made the decision to move to Brooklyn with her beautiful family. She ardently gave her talent and devotion to all in her care throughout her time at BFS. Kamaya is a dedicated leader and educator, whose commitment to students’ growth is unwavering. It was clear to see that students have great respect for Kamaya and know that she believes in their capacity to make an incredibly meaningful mark on the world as kind and brilliant humans. The Upper School colleagues have had a leader who has supported their own development while also making space for their gifts to shine. Over the past three years, Kamaya implemented key initiatives, which will continue to positively influence the Upper School experience.

We wish Karen, Maura, and Kamaya only the best in their new journeys.

FROM LEFT Kamaya Prince Thompson, Maura Eden, Karen Edelman

BFS WAS THRILLED TO WELCOME AUTHOR DR. LIZA TALUSAN

Dr. Liza Talusan is an educator, facilitator, and strategic change partner for organizations, corporations, leadership teams, schools and individuals who are looking to build their skills in areas of diversity, equity, inclusion, justice, and leadership. She leads with compassion and connection, even when conversations are difficult and challenging. That’s what it says on her official website. However, those who know, know—Liza is so much more.

This past June, BFS was thrilled to welcome Dr. Liza A. Talusan to engage our colleagues in her work , The Identity Conscious Educator: Building Habits and Skills for a More Inclusive School, which the entire colleague-body read last summer. Liza’s work centers identity as the starting point for deep and courageous reflection. Her time with us in the Pearl Street Meeting House, expanded our collaboration, critical thinking, and amplified our connection as a community. More than anything, however, with her positive energy, personality, and intellect, she made our growth an experience—which at times can be uncomfortable— dynamic and enduring.

It was really not a surprise. After all, BFS has been looking forward to this visit for nearly a year, and the reality of it coming to pass did not disappoint. She was introduced to the BFS colleagues by Dr. AnaMaria Correa, our Director of Diversity, Equity, and Belonging and our Head of School, Crissy Cáceres. During that introduction, they both explained the very personal connections they have developed with Dr. Talusan—and her brilliance and authenticity.

“Her influence on my work has allowed me to sit and engage with parts of myself in simple and profound ways,” Dr. Correa said, in part. “She invites us to hold our understanding of self and

examine our identities as points of light on a path to illuminate our understanding of ourselves and our shared responsibility.”

Dr. Talusan arrived on stage excited to connect and engage in conversation with the BFS colleagues, sharing that she herself was a teacher for 25 years. Her goals for the day included having the group build skills to have more inclusive relationships, conversations, and opportunities. In addition, a goal was to expand upon our existing habits of working from a DEI framework.

As she began her presentation, she paused for a moment to recognize BFS Head of School, Crissy Cáceres.

“I am feeling so emotional today because I have had 25 years of seeing administrative leadership, and I have never seen anyone engage with such authentic gratitude toward your people, as I saw here today,” Dr. Talusan said. “I am entering this space with so much gratitude for you, as well, so thank you for setting the stage for all that I believe is an identity conscious practice.”

Throughout the time that Dr. Talusan spoke to the colleagues, there were turn and talk moments, moments where colleagues were asked to process some of their own feelings, and the sharing of individual—and collected feelings through various exercises. She insists that we build knowledge through critical check-ins, engage in reflection by preparing for conflict, and more to action, by identifying the values that drive behaviors.

One thing was for certain, Dr. Liza A. Talusan made an impact on our BFS community. And, in the end, to say that she was worth the wait might be the most incredible understatement of all.

Thank you, Dr. Talusan for being a light in our world.

THE DEEP IMPACT OF THE NAIS DIVERSITY LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE

By SUZIE MATTHEWS

This year’s art installation in the lobby of our Upper School at 116 Lawrence was a daily gift and reminder. Overlapping strands of yarn, strategically placed, spelled out the word “growth” in capital letters. Over the course of the year, many of the pieces of yarn loosened because of repeated contact with bodies, underscoring that growth need not be linear or taut. As members of the BFS community, we are all committed to growth in ourselves and others, whether that growth is within or beyond our walls. One way this is evident is that last year, BFS colleagues attended more than 150 professional development experiences—locally, virtually, and in person around the world.

One of those experiences for me was the NAIS Diversity Leadership Institute. Other colleagues, including Division Heads Nitya York and Jason Novak, have attended DLI in the past. This year, participants hailed from all corners of the country: CFOs, Directors of DEB, teachers, administrative assistants, Division Heads, and more. Some were just beginning their first roles in schools, and some were near the end of their careers.

From the beginning, the faculty set the stage for a “gracious space,” which encompassed spirit, setting, inviting the stranger, and learning in public. One faculty member reminded us of the Talmudic principle that Anaïs Nin wrote about in 1961: “We do not see things as they are; we see them as we are.” Through sessions that blended theory and practice, we learned about implicit bias and the gap between how much information our brains can take in (11

million bits every second) and how much we can actually process (50 bits every second). We engaged in simulations, case studies, and completed an intercultural conflict style inventory. We learned about technical and adaptive challenges and the skills required for each. We discussed framing, racial justice stances, and the legal landscape of DEB in our schools. We wrote taglines for equity and aspirational newspaper headlines. We made paper bag “bricks” to form a wall that collectively held what makes the work of DEB possible in our schools and what stands in the way.

And we got close. We held each other’s arms, literally, in a “muscles and bones” exercise. The work of diversity, equity, and belonging is immersive and proximate. The faculty of DLI are master educators, and they inject intentionality in each detail. From 8 am to 8 pm most days, we engaged in sessions with our full group of over 100 educators, smaller sessions with about 40 others, and in intimate home groups of around 10 at the end of the day. At the end of the institute, we were reminded that our job is to plant seeds, recognizing we may not be there for the full harvest. We closed the week with a “Quaker-style” meeting, beginning in silence and opening to anyone to share a reflection about their experience that week, or what they were taking back to their schools.

Each experience changes us. DLI’s throughlines of clarity, connection, and commitment enabled me to bring back a new abundance of all three, and I am excited for the work ahead. We will continue to send colleagues to DLI in future years, as we continue to work in commitment towards a world that is more just and free.

This past June, Head of School, Crissy Cáceres—a 17-year veteran faculty member at the Diversity Leadership Institute—invited Assistant Head of School Suzie Matthews, and Director of Communications and Marketing Brett Topel, to attend this year’s Institute.

By BRETT TOPEL

I have had the great fortune over the past two years of attending some of the best professional development programs throughout the country. However, attending the NAIS Diversity Leadership Institute put all conferences in a different category.

For one thing, and they tell you this right from the start, DLI is not a conference, it is an institute. That means you are going to be involved—deeply involved—in every aspect of the six-days of learning. There were four large-group sessions called plenaries, six strand sessions, which were made up of smaller groups of 40, and home groups, which each had 10 members and was facilitated by a DLI faculty member. Your home group were the folks that you met with each night to unpack the busy day. It was also where you were able to be most vulnerable.

Each session—whether a plenary or strand—was jam-packed with an incredible amount of information, small group activities, and the sharing of experiences. There were serious moments, humorous moments, and very emotional moments. The material brought up feelings in many participants that were deeply personal. The titles for these sessions included: Identity, Race, Conflict, Power and Privilege, Leading and Managing, and Governance. There were also sessions on Neuroscience, Identity Framing, and Racial Justice Stances. All were extremely enlightening and beyond thought-provoking.

More than the material learned or feelings unearthed, there were the relationships formed. Everyone arrived at DLI at different stages of DEI work. However, the conversations, side conversations, and friendships formed and strengthened during the six-day Institute were real. One of those relationships for me was the one I formed with my home group leader, Johnnie Foreman—who recently retired from the Gilman School in Baltimore after a 47-year career as a teacher, coach, and DEI leader. He also happened to be the trombone player for the Sound Experience—an American funk ensemble, founded at Morgan State College—which used to open for the legendary Earth, Wind, & Fire. We had fun with that. I immediately realized how much

CRISSY SHOWS WHAT BFS IS ALL ABOUT

I liked this man, but soon enough, I would realize how much respect I had for him. He had stories—real stories. Johnnie had lived through a lot and was now using that life-knowledge to facilitate this critical work at DLI.

One of the stories that Johnnie had told was that when he was a child, during segregation, his mother had to draw an outline of his foot on a piece of paper and bring it into the shoe store to get him new shoes. As a black child in Baltimore, he was not allowed to go into the store and try shoes on. I immediately thought back to my own childhood, literally running into the Stride Rite store to try on my new Zips sneakers. Johnnie—and so many others— never had that opportunity. A small story, but one that made a huge impact on me. Johnnie has a lot of these stories, and has an uncanny way of hitting home with each of them.

Before leaving DLI, I gave Johnnie a hug and vowed to stay in touch. I’m not sure he knows how much he impacted my life, as had so many others I came to know and respect during DLI. On the flight home, I kept running it all back in my mind. But the flight was not long enough for that, so I will continue to work hard at the hard work.

One of the highlights of attending DLI was experiencing our very own Head of School, Crissy Cáceres, in a different light. Those of us who are fortunate enough to experience all that Crissy has to offer on a daily basis, sometimes can forget the impact she has on people hearing her for the very first time. As a 17-year DLI Faculty veteran, Crissy showed everyone exactly what she— and BFS—are all about. In addition to being the facilitator of a 10-person home group, Crissy created and presented the strand session entitled, Governance. Throughout the session, she identified and emphasized the importance that the Board of Trustees has in the overall success of a school’s diversity and social justice work. “Find your board, know your board, and use your board as a springboard,” she said. As someone who sits on the Board of Trustees for NAIS and NYSAIS, among others, Crissy knows of what she speaks. Watching others absorb that wisdom was truly a treat.

ACTIVATING JOY & GRATITUDE IN OUR DAILY EXPERIENCES

By SUZIE MATTHEWS Assistant Head of School

On my first day at Brooklyn Friends School, our Leadership Team watched a QuakerSpeak video, entitled “What Do Quakers Believe?” Over the past two years, I have often come back to a particular sentence from that video: “The world is set up to distract us.”

Our contemporary worldly distractions are not the same as when the first Quaker School was founded over three hundred years ago. Today, we live in the most densely populated city in our country. Recent judicial and legislative decisions have devalued people of color, queer people, women, and the non-wealthy in terrifying ways. Many of us are now more actually aware of the Air Quality Index than we were three months ago, and this summer included two of the hottest days in the history of the Earth. Information pollution has become another challenge to our environment; “gaslighting” was Merriam-Webster’s 2022 word of the year. The day I wrote this article, I was behind a young person on a subway escalator in Midtown. His large cell phone was sticking out of his small pocket, and the weight of his phone meant that his shorts were noticeably lower on one side. We live in a heavy world.

These realities will certainly evolve in the next 300 years. The Quaker values that form the foundation of our school, though, provide a lasting recipe for how to navigate all challenges—for how to live well, how to live beautifully and with purpose. Quaker schools exist for students to learn how to clear the path, lighten the load, and change the world through a dedication to simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality, and stewardship. Guided by the Quaker beliefs that there is a divine light in all of us, and that the truth is continually revealed, our students learn how and why to inquire, to stay open, to be well, and to connect to that which is greater than ourselves. Nothing less will do.

In exchange for being a part of Brooklyn Friends School, we must each continually interrogate the question: “What does it mean to be a part of a Quaker school community?”

In 1943, Maslow posited a hierarchy of needs essential for learning. Today, spiritual wellness is recognized by many organizations as one of the interconnected dimensions of wellness. This year, a group of Colleagues participated in the year-long Awakened Schools Institute through the Collaborative for Spirituality in Education at Columbia University. During one of the monthly sessions, we learned about the neuroscience of spirituality, reading a study that showed that valuing spirituality correlates to a thicker cortex, and that nurturing our spirituality can strengthen our neural pathways. Being part of a Quaker school community means cultivating our spiritual wellness in ways that affirm ourselves and each other.

Being part of a Quaker school community means cultivating intellectual and mental wellness. This happens every day at BFS, from Preschoolers inviting parents to see their interdisciplinary work on ponds; Lower School students devising an action project as part of their inquiry into food insecurity; Middle and Upper School students reading Kwame Alexander, Gene Luen Yang, Sandra Cisneros, Henrik Ibsen, Gabriel Garcia Marquez, Ovid, and the Mahabharata. Intellectual wellness looks like students wrestling with the prompt: “Biology is the study of life, yet life is an emergent property. Under what circumstances is a systems approach productive in biology and under what circumstances is a reductionist approach more appropriate? How do scientists decide between competing approaches?” Or this query in math class: “How is thinking algebraically different from thinking arithmetically?” All of this together requires our students to think critically, to deepen their connections with themselves and each other. We can’t truly understand a supply-and-demand curve unless we understand our relationship economics.

Being part of a Quaker School means activating joy and gratitude in our daily experiences: Colleagues practicing improv or doing double-dutch during a Professional Day, families creating a “flash mob” for the Lower School moving up ceremony, Middle School students laughing together before a chorus performance, Upper School students proudly explaining their artwork to their friends at the IB Art Show, grandparents traveling from other countries to visit, families attending a Latinx Heritage Month dinner or a Connect and Talk, colleagues and families coming from a place of curiosity and partnership during conferences.

Being part of a Quaker School means committing to a life of global citizenship and social impact, to increasing belonging here and in the world, by considering multiple perspectives, reflecting on how our testimonies manifest in moments of transitions, conflict, and learning. Our Quaker testimonies are universal. They remind us to pause in our busy world of human-made

distractions and put our time and spirit into things that go beyond our physical existence.

Hannah Arendt, a brilliant 20th century philosopher, wrote about the importance of thinking without a banister. At a Quaker school, thinking without a banister means we live, learn, and love without fearing we will fall and without clinging, trusting ourselves and our larger purpose. It means that we continually seek Truth through discernment. Without a banister, we know we need to develop a strong base and a steady balance. We know the way will open when we take the time to be still and to listen closely. As members of a Quaker School community, we are each called to do this work within ourselves and within a deep and caring community. It is a great privilege that we live into every day. Nothing less will do.

BEGINNING THIS SCHOOL YEAR, SUZIE MATTHEWS WILL ASSUME THE LEADERSHIP FOR ALL QUAKER ASPECTS OF OUR SCHOOL.

By BRETT TOPEL Director of Communications & Marketing

Each week, BFS Arti-Facts examines a moment in history from the Brooklyn Friends Archives and appears in The Weekly—our digital newsletter that arrives in email inboxes every Sunday morning. However, recently a thought occurred to me—how old does something need to be in order to be considered an artifact? Sort of old, right? Well, in our somewhat BFS’d version of ArtiFacts, an appropriate definition would be a story or item from our history that is meaningful to our community.

Using this criteria, the very first Arti-Fact article from November of 2021 is not a legit artifact. Still, it is historical in its own way, and was the first of its kind. Little did I know at that point in time that Arti-Facts would become so popular. Not Taylor Swift or SZA popular; not Aaron Judge or Aaron Rodgers popular; and definitely not “Barbie” or “Oppenheimer” popular. However, family members often approach me to comment about Arti-Facts. One person even had the idea of having an ArtiFacts fan club. OK, that was me, but still. I will say, somewhat confidently, that Arti-Facts is the most-read history article written each week on Pearl Street.

Way back in November of 2021, I wrote about an old photo I had found of the BFS Student Council looking much older and mature than you would expect teen-agers to look. It was from the 1950s, a decade of shirts, ties, and Brylcreem, and the students looked like they came out of central casting. This past June 9, the Class of 2023 made its journey across a small stage that took them to the end of their BFS student journey. One short walk for friends, one giant leap for the Class of 2023. Just like that, they became BFS alums. With them, they took all of their own artifacts from BFS—physical and emotional—and prepared to take on the world. Along the way, not a single dab of Brylcreem to be found.

There was however, a bunch of interesting Arti-Facts from this past spring, that you may have missed. And we can’t have that.

1 There was the one about John Morehouse, who attended BFS in the 1950s. When we spoke, he had so many memories of his days at BFS, it was almost as if he did not know where to start. So we started at the beginning, when he

arrived at Brooklyn Friends School in the early 1940s. He would remain at the school until 1954, his eighth-grade year. His mother passed away that year and instead of continuing at BFS, his family sent John to boarding school. He wishes he could have stayed. However, John has no hard feelings, no regrets, only good memories. His older sister, Jane, graduated from here in 1950. He met his wife, Eloise, at a summer camp run by BFS athletic director at the time, Walter Longley. She later enrolled in the school and graduated from Brooklyn Friends in 1960. Their daughter, Elizabeth, graduated from here in 1985. However, one of the most interesting aspects of the story does not even involve Brooklyn Friends School—even though it does—sort of. In the 1930s, John Morehouse’s father attended Brooklyn Law School, right here at 375 Pearl Street. John noted the sign over the front door, which still bears the name of the building’s original tenant. So on this May night, in 2023, John Morehouse stood in the lobby of Brooklyn Friends School, the very lobby his father—long before he was a father— walked through each day on his way to his law classes. Ironically, John never set foot in this building as a BFS student, as the school would not acquire this building until two decades after John left the school. The lobby at Pearl has largely remained unchanged since the days Brooklyn Law School called it home. The hand-operated elevators, the large “golden” doors leading to each of the offices from the lobby itself are all original. There we were, in a time warp. John was standing in the same lobby that his father—and his daughter— traversed as students. Pretty cool.

2 There was also the one about busses, as the school considers additional ways for students to travel to and from school each day. That prompted a deeper dive into one of our favorite historical BFS photos, the Friends School bus, circa. the 1920s. While the Friends School “fleet” of buses, as it was described, did not transport children to school each day, it was the mode of transportation for students and teachers to get from school to Friends Field, which was located a fair distance from the school. Friends Field, which still stands today in fact, is located between Ocean Parkway and McDonald Avenue, down near Avenue M. But back to the buses. In 1926, the first year that BFS used the buses, students raved about the experience in the year’s final edition of Friends School Life: “Now we roll luxuriously, albeit a trifle bumpily, to the field in our sumptuous buses. They are large green affairs, with conspicuous black and gold labels.” In the photo, you can see Head of School, Guy W. Chipman, overseeing the loading of the “sumptuous” bus, which clearly at the time did not have a limit as to how many students can ride at any one time. The bus seems rather full. Take note of some of the faces peeking out of the windows, peering at the photographer, all becapped and with their entire lives ahead of them. Just who was the photographer? A teacher? A parent? The bus driver?—who appears to be missing in action! That, I can confidently and sadly say, we will never know. However, whoever it was took a really cool photo that has stood the test of time—and is being spoken about 100 years after it was taken—long after the wheels of this bus stopped going round and round.

Another historic photo that caught our attention was from back in the 1930s and depicted the Brooklyn Friends School Field Hockey team. By all historical accounts, BFS was among the best squads in the area. As we have learned, sometimes photos help to complement the stories here in Arti-Facts. However, on rare occasions, a photo actually inspires the topic in the first place. Take a close look at the field hockey team photo from 1930. As in most photos from this era, there are really no smiles among the team. Why didn’t people smile in photos back then? There are many theories, ranging from dental concerns, to the time it took to take a photo, to the belief that early photos mimicked pre-existing customs in painting—an art form in which many found grins uncouth and inappropriate for portraiture. But this is not about smiles, it is about fur. Specifically, take a look at the coaches, who—for some reason— are each wearing a full-length fur coat in the field hockey team photo! I am not sure if these were school-issued. However, that is some fancy apparel to wear on a field hockey sideline. Only Joe Namath of the New York Jets wore fur nearly as well on the sidelines at Shea Stadium. So, you might ask, what is the point of any of this. We will have to get back to you on that, unfortunately. However, the photo certainly made us smile!

4 OK, one more—just for old time’s sake! This past April, we highlighted all of our school librarians on National School Librarian Day. In fact, the month of April, it turned out, was We Love BFS Libraries Month. Libraries have been a big part of BFS’ history, but not from the very beginning, which is understandable. The New York Public Library, afterall, did not open its doors until 1895, 28 years after BFS opened. Of course, the school had hundreds and hundreds of books available for its students, but it wasn’t until 1929 that the library at BFS was deemed comprehensive enough to warrant its first full-time, trained Librarian. In fact, the fostering of this scholastic enterprise was one of Head of School Wayne L. Douglass’ chief contributions to BFS’ educational advancement. In his final year as Head, the Library grew to contain nearly 4,000 volumes of suitable reading matter that was carefully correlated with classroom work. The photo here from around 1930 depicts one of the earliest days of the BFS library. Over the past nine decades, the school’s multiple libraries have steadily evolved into the beating hearts of our school buildings, where friends can explore the world (real and imagined)—from the comfort of a cozy chair—and build a lifelong love of learning and reading. Our libraries proudly house more than 36,000 books, which means if someone chose to read a different book each day, it would take nearly 100 years to get through the entire collection. However, as any good Librarian will tell you, it all starts with just one good book.

Do you have any memories you would like to share of your time at BFS that can be used in Arti-Facts? Please email us at communications@brooklynfriends.org.

BFS ATHLETICS WERE IN FULL BLOOM THIS SPRING

ON THE RUN

By CHRISTIAN BROWN Director of Athletic Program & Vision

The Brooklyn Friends School spring athletics season was filled with growth, excitement, resilience, and outstanding performances across various sports teams. Baseball, softball, and outdoor track teams across both the middle school and varsity levels showcased their BFS pride, winning efforts, skills and passion, making it a memorable season.

BASEBALL CHAMPIONS, ONCE AGAIN

The BFS varsity baseball team showcased its grit and resilience throughout the season, and their emergence as playoff champions was a testament to their commitment and winning attitude. For the second-straight season, the team won the ISAL (Independent Schools Athletic League) championship at Maimonides Park in Coney Island, home of the Brooklyn Cyclones. This year, they defeated LREI, 11-0, to take home the championship trophy. The victory allowed the Panthers to advance to the NYSAIS Tournament for the second consecutive year.

VOLLEYBALL DOMINANCE

Another team that left a mark this season was the BFS varsity volleyball team. The Panthers had an incredible run, dominating the ACIS (Athletic Conference of Independent Schools) during the regular season, and winning the regular season championship. Although they faced a setbacks in the ACIS semifinal round and in the ISAL championship round, the Panthers’ exceptional overall performance this season earned them a #4 seed (the highest seed achieved by any BFS spring volleyball team) in the NYSAIS state tournament. In the NYSAIS state tournament, the team won an intense match against Grace Church, proving their ability to regroup and bounce back.

BFS’ outdoor track team had its share of successes this past spring. Two of our runners qualified for the prestigious NYSAIS state outdoor track meet, showcasing their speed and endurance. Oona Vali, who will go down as one of BFS’ most talented runners, placed an impressive 3rd in the highly competitive 800-meter event. A remarkable achievement that reflects her dedication and hard work.

JUNIOR PANTHERS HAVE ARRIVED!

The launch of the Junior Panthers Skill Development Program for 5th and 6th graders this spring in the sports of volleyball, running, and soccer was met with resounding success. Throughout the program, the participants showcased tremendous growth, both in their technical abilities and their understanding of the respective sport. With such a promising start, the program looks forward to expanding and refining its offerings during the coming school year, building on the success and positive impact it has already had on young athletes in our school community, who are the future of our sports program.

Blue Pride ran deep this past year and brought the entire school community together to celebrate both the small and big victories achieved by our student-athletes. The season emphasized the importance of commitment, risk-taking, and that showing up and giving one’s best was just as important as winning a championship or placing for a medal. Thank you to our coaches and student-athletes for sharing their light and passion contributing to the overall success of our athletic program.

Looking ahead, we are excited to build our program, and continue our journey of athletic excellence. This year has provided a strong foundation for the future, and we are confident that our student-athletes will continue to excel and make us proud.

BFS PERFORMING ARTS: QUAKER VALUES MEET THE HEART OF CREATIVITY ON STAGE

By STEPHEN BUCK All-School Performing Arts Department Chair

When the curtain goes up and the spotlights come on at Brooklyn Friends School, something special is most definitely about to happen.

The performing arts program at BFS offers a rich and diverse course of study in music, theater, and dance in all of our divisions—from the youngest students to the oldest. Our Performing Arts mission is very simple—to deliver a high quality arts education that is focused—not just on active participation and collaboration—but one that, at the same time, shines a bright light on our Quaker values.

Our productions, showcases, and concerts strive to reflect our community by living up to a diverse repertoire of music, dance, and theater pieces, and we urge our students to study the culture and context in which these pieces live and proliferate. In addition to our courses, we offer opportunities for Middle

and Upper School students to perform in our four mainstage productions each year.

As the department chair, the role of being an artist-educator— one who exemplifies their craft and is active in their field of performing arts—is deeply personal. Students are offered consistent feedback and instruction to inform their own technique, whether it be in music, dance, or theater. Our Performing Arts colleagues expose our students to many points of view and lift up diverse experiences, especially those that our students may not encounter in their lives outside of school. Like all of our colleagues at BFS, the Performing Arts colleagues implore our students to think critically about their work, craft lessons that engage various modes of learning, and provide opportunities for students to work together collaboratively to solve problems. Additionally, we work to foster the creative mind through developing new ideas for musical compositions and improvisations, choreography, and original theater pieces.

This was evidenced throughout the 2022–2023 school year, when students contributed original choreography in the dance concert, composed original piano pieces for commencement, created scenes for IB Theater based on ChatGPT, and heard our

sixth grade string orchestra perform a folk song that was written by a BFS seventh grader.

Our performing arts colleagues are second to none as they exemplify the model of the artist-educator. Our music teachers are professional musicians who play in jazz clubs across New York, in professional orchestras, and opera pits. Our dance faculty has close ties to NYU, one of the leading organizations for dance education in this country, and one of them is adjunct professor of dance, and we frequently partner with NYU to bring in choreographers or guest dancers to work with our students. Our theater teachers are active in the New York theater scene as consultants and directors, and we recently went to support our colleague who premiered their first off-broadway show as a director. In addition, our performing arts colleagues teach undergraduate and graduate students outside of BFS, primarily those who work as arts practitioners throughout the country. We also are members of the board of directors for arts organizations and work to promote the performing arts around our city and country. Each of us value our ongoing professional development so that we can continue to hone our craft and work to deliver the best possible instruction in music, theater, and dance.

We are fortunate, as a school in New York City, to have an incredible amount of resources at our fingertips. We have grown partnerships with a variety of arts organizations throughout the city, as we are able to invite guest artists to give workshops at our school throughout the year. We also have the privilege to travel to see various performances at iconic locations such as the Joyce Theatre, Dance Africa, New York Philharmonic, Carnegie Hall, Atlantic Theatre, and Broadway Stages. This allows us to truly broaden our students’ view of what is possible in our field.

Within our own community, our students have had the opportunity to learn from parents who work in the performing arts world. One example of this was that our 9th and 10th grade digital music students worked with musician and film composer—and BFS parent—Giancarlo Vulcano to create a movie scoring project. Giancarlo came in to speak with the class and show examples of his work and then met with each student to provide feedback on each of their film scoring compositions. We also worked with Steve Salett, who owns the Reservoir recording studio to give the students in last year’s musical The Trouble with Dead Boyfriends the opportunity to capture their cast recording in a professional studio. Additionally, there are BFS parents who work on Broadway and have offered our students tickets to a variety of performances.

Needless to say, we had an exciting year, and we are looking forward to even more opportunities to engage our students and our greater community in the performing arts, as our new year begins!

In the fall, we will present the rock musical Head Over Heels, a vibrant and joyous musical that combines an Elizabethan love story with the timeless pop music of The Go-Go’s, celebrating love, acceptance, and the power of self-discovery. Additionally,

we are working closely with Dr. AnaMaria Correa and Kevin Murungi in the offices of Diversity, Equity, and Belonging and Global Civic Engagement and Social Impact, to further engage our community around our work to lift up unheard voices.

Our most important mission is to instill a lifelong love of learning about and participating in the arts whether they are professional or active performers, or an informed audience. Be sure to keep your eyes open for all of the exciting things that will be happening with BFS Performing Arts! We would love to have you be a part of it all!

FROM WINTER TO SPRING, BFF PROUDLY DID THEIR THING!

By EMILY COWLES Associate Director of Digital Content & School Events Manager

Thanks to our Brooklyn Friends and Families, the 2022–2023 school year was one filled with fun and enriching community events and efforts for the entire BFS community. While every family member of a BFS student is a member of the BFF, some friends choose to take on a leadership role and serve in vital roles, such as: Class Family Lead or Clerk on the BFF Leadership Group.

“When we came to BFS in 2018 from Williamsburg, I wanted to feel connected to our new community, so I jumped right into volunteering,” said Tracey Wells- Schneps, parent of Hudson ’30 and Sloane ’33 and current Clerk of the BFF. “What a wonderful surprise it has been for me to also make wonderful friendships! It’s also a nice way to have a lens into the school that extends beyond my own children’s classes and grades on all things from social/emotional phases to curriculum. The best part is that the time commitment can be what you want it to be, but the return is invaluable.”

The BFF’s stated goal is to “build community at Brooklyn Friends School.” And build community, they did! Here is a summary of some of the BFF’s impact on this past winter and spring—we hope it inspires you to join in on the fun this coming school year. Each of these touchpoints was led and supported by volunteers and our Brooklyn Friends and Families.

Celebrations of Belonging at BFS

During the past school year, the BFF’s Diversity, Equity, and Belonging Committee partnered with our Office of Diversity, Equity, and Belonging, for a series of events celebrating belonging at Brooklyn Friends. These comprehensive celebrations were held in the classroom, in small and large groups, and culminated with joyful events, featuring food, music, dancing, poetry, and fellowship. This past school year, these celebrations of LatinX Heritage Month, Black History Month, and AAPI Heritage Month included special guests, events, and resources for the entire community. While there were far too many highlights to

Friends of the Library Spread Love for Our BFS Libraries

The BFS Community’s love of books and our BFS libraries was on full display this April as we celebrated We heart BFS Libraries Month! As the BFS Libraries hosted a series of author events for our students, which included Kyle Lukoff and George O’Connor, the BFF Friends of the Library Committee held a two day Book Fair to raise funds for library programming. The 3rd Floor Library at Pearl Street was transformed into a McNally Jackson satellite store, and the BFS community shopped to help us achieve our fundraising goals. As part of the Fair, the Friends of the Library were also excited to host BFS parents and authors Idra Novey and Iris Martin Cohen for a fun and engaging discussion about Idra’s new book Take What You Need.

capture here, we note the honor of having Solaris, from The Garden: Abolitionist Bookstore & Community Well, who performed powerful poetry for—and with—our Upper Schoolers, all inspired by and uplifting Black Resistance, Power, and Voice. Dr. AnaMaria Correa created an inspired padlet of resources for LatinX Heritage Month, including important writings and books, which highlighted the deep dive into the ways our school amplified our understanding of identities of different heritages. For AAPI Heritage Month, we celebrated the generations of AAPI communities that have significantly contributed and enriched the history, culture, and society of the United States.

A Year of Joyful Colleague Appreciation

The BFF takes the lead on colleague appreciation efforts on behalf of all BFS families. Over the course our three all-school professional development days, the BFF showered our deserving colleagues with special treats to fuel their important professional development work. The year of appreciation reached its pinnacle with Colleague Appreciation Week in May. Each day of the week included a special expression of gratitude for our colleagues. These touchpoints included massages with Stress Busters NYC, a gourmet coffee cart, delicious donuts, a dessert bar, a breakfast spread, and a gift of beautiful succulent plants to adorn their classrooms and homes.

Second Annual SkateFest Takes the Ice

Held on Saturday, March 4, Pearl the Panther led the ice skaters onto the scenic rink at LeFrak Center at Lakeside in Prospect Park for our second annual SkateFest. In addition to many loops around the rink, about 300 friends of all ages enjoyed hot chocolate, cookies, crafts, face painting, and community. Special SkateFest moments included Upper School volunteer skate buddies helping younger friends maneuver in their ice skates, and Middle School face painters and crafters engaging with Preschool and Lower School students.

Reaching for the Stars at the Sky’s the Limit Gala

On what could only be described as a picture-perfect evening on Thursday, May 11, the Brooklyn Friends School community gathered at 74Wythe in Williamsburg for its annual gala event. Overlooking views of the Manhattan skyline, more than 350 family members, colleagues, and friends, enjoyed a night of connection, joy, and laughs. Thanks to the generosity of our community, we exceeded our fundraising goal for the evening—all of which will benefit access and affordability at BFS through our financial aid program. Meaningful speeches of the night’s

goal and mission were delivered eloquently by our Head of School, Crissy Cáceres, and our Director of Global Civic Engagement and Social Impact, Kevin Murungi. They stressed, not just the importance of giving, but how those funds translate to immediate real-life outcomes. The crowd was inspired too by words from Director of Communications and Marketing, Brett Topel, and the Gala Chair, Sowmya Rao P ’33, ’35. All in all, it was a night that will long be remembered by the BFS community.

SpringFest Block Party Rocks Pearl Street

Our second annual SpringFest was a truly spectacular way to end the school year as a community. On Saturday, June 4, 2023, BFS students, families, colleagues, and friends, took over Pearl Street for a block party to remember. There was live music from Dark Chapel, a rock band made up of 5th and 6th grade students, and our 7th grade a cappella group, under the direction of Stephen Buck. There were games, bounce houses, donut-eating contests, face painting, food, music, and—more than anything—a lot of smiles.

OUR ADVANCEMENT JOURNEY CONTINUES

By JOYCE DUVERCE Director of Advancement & Strategic Partnerships

I’ve come to learn a great deal about this dynamic Brooklyn Friends School community during my first year at the school. Who we are seems very clear—we are a school that is driven, and powered, by the people within it. Our two campuses hold extremely eclectic individuals—all connected by one unifying mission. Our families, students, colleagues, and friends consistently join together to support the vitality of our vibrant learning institution.

Over the past school year, I witnessed a myriad of spirited contributions that demonstrated our pride, including: the voluminous sounds of student voices that echo through our halls, the many volunteers that committed countless hours to develop elevated experiences for the entire school community, and the all school response to our appeals to invest and provide gifts in support of our Fund. Each and every one of your generous donations affords us the opportunity to steward efforts that center the student experience and make way for us to “do school” the BFS way!

It is inspiring to be a part of this community, which is motivated to develop elevated experiences for young people. From Pearl Street’s “golden doors,” to Lawrence’s sleek spaces, we come together to champion the amazing programming—including the art exhibitions, theater productions, musical concerts, sporting events, and competitive curricula that shape the minds, hearts, and imagination of our students. It is practically impossible to fully encapsulate all of the distinguishable qualities of our school with just a few mentions, nor can it be contained to the borders of our buildings.

Of the many gems that exist in our school, the feeling of connectivity and purpose that resonates at our meetings for worship lives in the most profound way in each of us. Our commitment to shine the light and to identify the changemaker in each young person expands the student experience from the BFS classroom to creating youth steered impact in local and global communities through civic engagement efforts. The opportunities that stem from our dynamic approach to education are boundless.

As I now transition into the role of Director Advancement & Strategic Partnerships, I am both motivated by the opportunities that exist within our school—and driven to keep every contribution in forward motion toward our unified goal of furthering the youth experience. For 15 years, I developed youth programming and formed enriching relationships focused on elevating youth experiences. My passion is to create pathways

and ecosystems of support that will help young people reach their highest potential. It is exciting to know that at BFS, I will have the opportunity to partner with individuals, volunteers, families, and friends to unlock the full potential of everything we have to offer. From our classrooms, athletics, theater, arts, and the power of our mission to advance the impact of our school and broaden students’ outlook, it is clear that it takes more than a village.

The Office of Advancement team is an energized group excited to meet with all families to listen, learn, and further build opportunities with and for our students. Collectively, we will all work together to cultivate those opportunities that will benefit every young person that enters our doors. My office will be a gathering space where students and families can come in community to dream and plan beyond our present day and work together to envision what BFS will look like in many years to come. I look forward to welcoming you.

It is truly a great time to be a Panther, and we are now at a pivotal time. We are prepared to amplify our dynamic programming, grow our youth experiences, and make known to all exactly what makes Brooklyn Friends School unique. Our work in advancement will go a long way to assure that we can grow our resources that can support our colleagues, global experiences, enriched learning, and more. There is absolutely no shortage of Blue Pride from all of our corners—it emanates from all of the members of our community. We are members of a connected, mission driven, and an invested community, and together, we will proudly move forward.

REUNION 2023: FRIENDS FOREVER

By JAY RAPP Assistant Director of Strategic Initiatives & Alumni Relations

A little rain could not dampen the spirit of those attending Reunion 2023, a BFS celebration of its alums—this year dating back as far as the Class of 1956! In all, more than 100 former BFS students and colleagues filled the Pearl Street lobby, sharing stories, a lot of laughs, and a tremendous amount of Blue Pride! It was a terrific opportunity for intergenerational alums of our school to be in one room, sharing their light.

Prior to the start of the Reunion celebration, many gathered in the Pearl Street Meeting House for a special memorial service to remember longtime teacher Martin Moore—who taught at BFS for 50 years. Martin passed away this past January.

In thinking about Martin’s tenure and how long BFS has been serving students, it is amazing the many challenges BFS has weathered since it opened in 1867. All the while, BFS has been committed to being a leader in social justice in addressing women’s suffrage, civil rights, LGBTQIA+ rights, immigration, poverty, etc. Whether you graduated from BFS in 1956 (or earlier) or 2023, you are well aware that BFS has withstood the test of time. It continues to live its mission and serve as an inspiration for both current and former students.

BROOKLYN FRIENDS RAISED ME THROUGH PERHAPS THE MOST FORMATIVE YEARS OF MY LIFE. TO MAINTAIN A CLOSENESS WITH THE COMMUNITY IS TO HONOR MY QUAKER FAMILY.

—AMARA GRANDERSON ’13

As a proud alum, you are—and always will be—a part of this special community and we hope you will engage with us in support of the school in any way you can. It’s your help, your commitment, and your shared experience that will see the school through the next 100 years. In honoring BFS’s commitment to equity, we work hard to provide opportunities for you to come together here in New York, the heart of Brooklyn, and around the world at no cost to you. We love to see you come together with one another, as you laugh, reminisce, and breathe life into the heart of the school. Many thanks to those who attended Reunion 2023, and we hope to see and hear from many more of you over the course of this next year at the various events we will be hosting—virtually and in-person. Stay tuned, and thank you for your continued partnership in ensuring that Blue Pride lives on and on.

ALUMNI CLASS NOTES

ROSALIND HALE CAMPBELL ’44

I attended Brooklyn Friends for 12 years, but it wasn’t until I got to Vassar that I fully realized what an extraordinary education I had received. I was much better prepared than many of my classmates. I graduated from Vassar on the three-year plan because of World War II and I married Dudley Campbell right after graduation. We had four children and as they were growing up, I got a job, putting all my earnings in the bank for a college fund for the children. I eventually went to work for the Reader’s Digest, as an editor. I am now 96, living in a wonderful nursing home in Pennsylvania. I kept up with many of my school friends as long as they lived and I now keep up with my four children, five grandchildren, and so far four great grandchildren!

JANE KOOTA ’54

After graduating Brooklyn Friends School, Jane went to nursing school where she was the valedictorian. She was a nurse for many years in New York before moving to Florida to be closer to her children.

BOB MESSING ’55

I entered BFS in Nursery School and ended up graduating in 1955. It was a wonderful experience. One highlight in 1954 was being the co-captain of the only varsity soccer team which went undefeated and untied in BFS’ up until that time. After graduating BFS and then Clark University, I spent the next 50 years guiding companies and law firms in becoming automated. I have been married to my wife, Amy, for 41 years, and we have two children, David and Laura. One of my most memorable trips was to Israel where I climbed Mt. Sinai. It was there that God is purported to have given Moses the Ten Commandments. I am currently living in Petaluma, California, where I leisurely read the New York Times each morning and enjoy the rest of the day.

FRED LEONARD ’58

For the past 15 years, I have been retired from being President of Metal Manufacturing Co. I have taken up Sculpture as a hobby and have been married for 30 years to my wife, Susan. We have a large family.

CAMILLA CHURCH GREENE ’60

Camilla (pictured above) returned to BFS for Reunion 2023 and enjoyed spending time and sharing laughs with many of her classmates.

JUDY FALK COHEN ’66

I have been married for 49 years, have two sons (a sportscaster and a lawyer), two adorable grandsons and I live in Connecticut. I started my career as an art dealer and have had my own interior design business for more than 30 years. My work has been published in major design publications and is still fulfilling.

KATHRYN KAPULER (CARLSON) ’66

My husband and I enjoy growing flowers and vegetables in our garden in upstate New York, not far from Ellenville. The road is quiet, and tending the garden is satisfying and healthy, too. Staying healthy is our first priority! We take short hikes, too.

MARCUS LEVITT ’72

Five years ago, I retired from USC in Los Angeles after more than 30 years teaching Russian Literature. My wife Alice and I moved to Medford in southern Oregon, where—with the help of exorbitantly high Los Angeles real estate prices—we bought a beautiful property. We are also closer to our two kids, Jesse and Betsy, who live in Portland. Jesse worked on Del Toro’s “Pinocchio” (that won an Oscar!) and Betsy runs a home-day care. I have continued my scholarly activity, writing, editing, translating, taking part in conferences. In February, I was granted a national award from AATSEEL (Google it!) for “outstanding achievement in scholarship.” Last June, Alice and I visited BFS on the occasion of my 50th reunion—it was wonderful getting in touch with old friends!

LAURI BAILEY ’75

My life is a patchwork quilt of hikes, volunteer work at a local animal shelter, writing, and spending time with my four granddaughters. Nothing major in terms of outward achievement for sure, but quite satisfying after a lengthy career teaching young children of generational poverty.

JASON ALTCHEK ’75

I am enjoying retired life in Phoenix. I spent kindergarten through 12th grade at BFS and that was the foundation of who I am today. I still am in touch with some of those classmates. Having spent 38 years in the Air Force, both flying and then as an AF civilian, I have learned the value of family and friendships. Hoping to see some alumni soon.

BETH PUNZI ’82

I graduated from BFS in 1982 and started in 1972 in the third grade! I am a Certified Financial Planner and Financial Advisor at Morgan Stanley in Red Bank, New Jersey. I am married and have three grown children, the youngest of whom just completed his first year of college. I am an active member of the Manasquan Monthly Meeting. I miss Brooklyn very much and get back whenever I can! I stay in touch with David Schoen ’81, and I recently had a wonderful catch up call with classmate, David Fenichel.

MAGNUS HEDLUND ’91

I have been at Microsoft since I graduated from CalTech in 1995 and currently lead the 1ES Engineering Team there. My wife

Heather and I have two children—Elise, who is a junior at GWU and Erik, who is a senior in high school. I am grateful for the foundation I received at BFS.

ASHLEY BORJA ’19

Ashley is currently entering CUNY Masters Program at Craig Newmark J-school

LILY EDELMAN ’20 AND MILLY BERMAN ’20

Lily and Milly recently exhibited their art in the Printed Matter Zine Fair in the East Village, as part of their work with the Disengineering Society at Wesleyan University. They are on Instagram @disengineering

SAMANTHA KALNER ’21

Since I graduated from BFS, I have attended Cornell University where I study biological sciences in CALS and am an epee fencer on our D1 Fencing Team. I am on a pre med track and have Clinical and Research Experience in Cutaneous and Internal Medicine in partnership with a world renowned Dermatologic and MOHS surgery practice, as well as with the neuro teams at Weill Cornell Medicine and Icahn School of Medicine. The coolest thing I’ve done recently was study abroad in Dublin, Ireland, which was truly a life-changing experience that I hope everyone gets a chance to do in their lifetime.

IN MEMORIAM

MARTIN MOORE, FORMER COLLEAGUE

This past January, long-time BFS colleague Martin Moore, who taught Latin at the school for 50 years, passed away at the age of 88. From Schermerhorn Street, to Willoughby Street, to Pearl Street, to Lawrence Street—from 1967 through 2017—Martin was an indelible member of this community. At our Reunion 2023 on May 20th, we held a special Meeting for Worship in Martin’s honor. It was attended by many of his former colleagues and students.

CLAUDETTE S. (ADAMS) NADRA, FORMER COLLEAGUE

Claudette Nadra, known as Claudette Adams when she taught at BFS, died on March 22, 2023 following a long and valiant struggle with a rare disease known as Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP). She was born in Detroit in 1939 to a father of German descent and a French Canadian mother. A deeply caring person, Claudette’s education and work history focussed on social work, education, and volunteer work.

ARLENE (KARP) SYMONS, FORMER COLLEAGUE

Arlene was a music teacher at BFS in the 1980s and inspired the Academy Award winning documentary, Close Harmony. She died recently at the age of 85.

CHARLOTTE STERN CONNER ’33

NIEL ISBRANDTSEN RISING ’43

MARION PERTZ GOODMAN ’50

JOSEPH DANNENBERG ’58

JOHN STREICKER ’60

BOB WALDMAN ’63

PAUL ECKSTEIN ’81