Vol. XCIII, No. 6
Deerfield, Massachusetts
Controversial Boston Globe Article Sparks Conversations Across Campus ANNA FU Associate Editor On Dec 28, 2018, current and former Deerfield students, parents, and faculty read a controversial front-page article in The Boston Globe entitled “‘Better Dead than Co-Ed’: Deerfield Academy Confronts its Male-Only Past.” The investigative article, written by Kay Lazar, claimed that Deerfield “remains a place where female students have a sense this is not their Deerfield.” It described the school’s culture as being sexist both on an administrative and social level, citing reports of gender discrimination and sexual assault and saying there seemed to be “a cycle of white male power” on campus. This article immediately sparked discourse within the student body. Many community members did not believe Lazar painted an accurate picture of the Deerfield they know. “It didn’t represent Deerfield now. It might’ve represented Deerfield fifteen, thirty years ago,” said Will Holland ‘21. “I would say that I’ve had a very great experience at [Deerfield] thus far. I’ve never felt disadvantaged as a girl at this school,” Kareena Bhakta ‘20 also shared. Students were frustrated by Lazar’s references to aspects of Deerfield’s social culture, such as Captain Deerfield only being a male student or a longtime cultural norm that only certain senior boys could stand on the top bleachers at hockey games. This year’s title of Captain
Deerfield is shared by a boy and a girl, marking the first year that a female student has held the position. At hockey games, both boys and girls stand in the top row. Many students believed Lazar’s references seemed outdated. Teddy Durfee ‘19, a four-year senior, said, “[Lazar] was bashing the school because of things that were happening a few years ago and portraying it in a way that made it sound like they were still issues now. But in reality, they have been dealt with and they have been
positive things have happened.” Several weeks after the article’s publication, students shared opinions in an open forum organized by Bailey Cheetham ’19, Emily Henderson ’19, and Mae Emerson ’19. While several students said they continued to experience a toxic culture of gender discrimination on campus and felt the article held true to their experiences, most students described the article as biased and shortsighted. “I’ve been here since freshman
Many community members did not believe Lazar painted an accurate picture of the Deerfield they know. changed.” While most students acknowledged Deerfield’s gendered culture had been an issue in the past, some were agitated by Lazar’s failure to acknowledge change in recent years and the student body’s desire to progress in a positive direction. “[The article] overlooked efforts the Academy has been taking to address some deep-rooted gender issues. There are things Deerfield is doing that are commendable—steps that the institution is taking in the right direction,” explained Kiana Rawji ‘18. Cameron Heard ‘19 shared a similar sentiment, saying she “disagrees with the parts [of the article] regarding social influence and social culture, [as] a lot of
year, and I’ve seen this school progress a lot,” Durfee said. “I don’t think the culture my freshman year was the same as it is right now. I think a lot has changed in a good way in terms of inclusion.” Others argued Lazar failed to take into account the diversity of the student body and the heterogeneity of the Deerfield experience. “I think that what Lazar failed to account for was how intersectionality affects the experiences of women at Deerfield,” Fernanda Ponce ‘19 pointed out. My identity and experience as a woman of color from a middle-class family is very different from that of a white girl from an upper-class background.” Continued on News, p. 4
January 30, 2019
Opinion: The Endless Cycle of Disordered Eating IZZY HAMLEN Contributing Writer Like most girls who’ve read it, I felt a mix of emotions after reading the Boston Globe article. I agreed with some aspects of the article, but disagreed with others. Regardless, it left out one important detail that truly sets Deerfield girls apart from the boys. Although I wear my school colors with pride, and although I respect the institution, the body image culture at this school has become so toxic that even ninth-graders have to face the harsh standards that girls subject themselves to on campus. These standards are part of a culture that is woven into sitdown and walk-through meals and extends into social media through photoshopped pictures; it’s a silent ideology that affects far too many girls at Deerfield. I can say this because I’ve experienced it. I’ve been to the counseling office, spoken to eating disorder specialists, and healed enough to the point where I can openly talk about it. Every time the school sent me to the doctor, therapist, or counselor, they would all say something along the lines of, “Don’t worry, you’re not the first person who’s struggled with this issue. There are a lot of girls at Deerfield who are going through this too.” At first, this seems like a reassuring statement—that I’m not alone and I’m going to get through this, which I’m sure is why they said it. But after hearing it so many times, I started to wonder why so many
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girls were going to see these people. I remember watching an older girl at my sit-down table politely decline every meal for a whole rotation; she assured her table head that she was going to eat at the Deerfield Inn instead. Two rotations later, I was doing the same thing without even realizing that I had copied her. Some of my friends started to notice the empty plate in front of me during meals and the growing number of nights I spent at the Health Center. I guess this behavior was familiar to them because soon enough, I received kind messages, one by one, asking me if I was alright and assuring me that if I ever needed someone to speak to, they were there because they had gone through it too. Continued on Op-Ed, p. 3
Opinion: My Experience as the First Female Captain Deerfield I have always felt incredible pressure to live up to the expectations of past Captains Deerfield and to prove that I am deserving of the role. Traditionally, Captain Deerfield has towered above students, yelling at crowds with a deep voice. However, I am a 5’ 4” girl with a high-pitched voice and uncontrollable energy, and my
shortly after a massive downpour, the boys varsity football team beat Cheshire Academy 34-14 in a huge upset. Post-game, the football players went racing into practice fields that had flooded with four feet of water. From the hilltop, I watched the boys celebrate their victory as they dunked themselves in mucky water.
“While I knew there would be a day when a female student took on the role, I never thought that student would be me.” - Bailey Cheetham ’19
When I first found out I was in contention for the position of Captain Deerfield, I didn’t know what to think. I felt incredibly
intimidated at the thought of being the first girl in this position. While I knew there would be a day when a female student took on the role, I never thought that student would be me. Finally, the day came when
Mikey Holland and I stepped to the front of the stage to take on our roles as Co-Captains Deerfield. As confusion and excitement spread throughout the crowd, the position that I had always respected and revered was offered to both of us.
presence marks a departure from the traditional Captains Deerfield before me. That being said, I have learned from my experience that it is possible for someone like me to receive the same attention and respect that has traditionally been awarded to the previous Captains. Captain Deerfield is and has always been responsible for pushing boundaries and fueling the energy that feeds our athletes and artists. This is what makes Deerfield special. With my role as the first female Captain Deerfield, I knew I was stepping into a whole new realm of pushing boundaries. A week before Choate Day,
News, p. 5
Features, p. 6
Arts, p. 9
Buzz, p. 12
Co-Captain Deerfield Bailey Cheetham ’19 leads cheers at the girls varsity volleyball game on Choate Day.
BAILEY CHEETHAM Contributing Writer
Four Years of Health Class? Dr. Brown is working with the Curriculum Committee to expand the Health class curriculum for the coming years.
COURTESY OF DEERFIELD ACADEMY FLICKR
Getting to Know Mr. Carroll Learn about the life of Director of the Library Marshall Carroll. Read about both his personal interests and his initiatives on campus.
Artist of the Issue: Henry Pan Meet the visual artist described as the “unsung hero of Deerfield Academy’s fine arts department” by Mr. Dickinson.
AirPods: Cop or Drop? Read a humorous review about the pros and cons of Apple’s ubiquitous new wireless earbuds.
One of my friends challenged me, “What are the odds you would jump in with them?” I responded with, “Heck, let’s do it.” I hit it down the hill and jumped head first into the brown water. The Captain Deerfield costume was drenched, with the white now a light shade of brown and the green several shades darker, but it was 100% worth it. Captain Deerfield isn’t just about watching our teams compete; it is about being a part of celebrating our teams’ victories.
More articles online at
Continued on Op-Ed, p. 3
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Opinion and Editorial
2 | Wednesday, January 30th, 2019
The Deerfield Scroll
Letter from the Editor Dear Reader,
Vol. XCIII, No. 6 Editors-in-Chief Joshua Fang & Orlee Marini-Rapoport Opinion & Editorial Editor Nadia Jo
Graphics Editor Madeline Lee
News Editor Thomas Song
Online Editor Simon Lam
Features Editor Emma Earls
Associate Online Editors John Chung Emma Johnson
Arts & Entertainment Editor Claire Quan Sports Editor Maggie Tydings Buzz Editor Soo Min Lee Photography Editor Britney Cheung
Associate Photography Editor Harbour Woodward Associate Editors Lily Faucett Anna Fu Sarah Jung Annie Kane Jae Won Moon Seth Thayumanavan
Advisors Julianne Schloat, Sam Savage and Marissa Cornelius The Deerfield Scroll, established in 1925, is the official student newspaper of Deerfield Academy. The Scroll encourages informed discussion of pertinent issues that concern the Academy and the world. Signed letters to the editor that express legitimate opinions are welcomed. We hold the right to edit for brevity. Opinion articles with names attached represent only the views of the respective writers. Opinion articles without names represent the consensus views of the editorial board.
It’s Time to Break Out of the Deerfield Bubble BOARD EDITORIAL Watching people talk about politics in 2019 often feels like watching a heated rivalry between two crowds cheering for opposite sports teams – but it’s not friendly competition. Bickering, fighting, and attacking one another, people are overly devoted to their chosen team to the point that they belittle and demonize other fans. The Scroll Editorial Board believes that perhaps the largest group of people, however, may be the indifferent crowd – and this must change. This trend is particularly clear at Deerfield, where students live in a bubble
parts of their identities – think of children whose parents are coal miners, working in a declining industry, or think of children who fled the Syrian civil war for safety. Their well-being depends on being informed and learning about shifting dynamics in the political climate. Fortunately, it is not difficult to start engaging with current events and various news outlets. We’re especially thankful that the Boyden Library granted members of the Deerfield community complete access to The New York Times (digital), The Wall Street Journal,
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clearly separating them from the outside world. It’s not exactly reasonable to expect every ninth-grader, who can be as young as 13 or 14, to enter Deerfield with a nuanced and well-informed viewpoint on every single domestic and international political issue. However, we should realize that most of our parents influence our political views to some degree as we grow up; whether we end up embracing them or despising them, there’s no doubt it weighs on our minds. Our time at Deerfield is an ideal period in our lives to begin questioning these views and to develop independent opinions. The Scroll Board encourages every Deerfield community member to back up their political views with strong evidence and logic. Following the news allows us to better articulate and support our views instead of merely following someone else’s opinions. We also acknowledge that being able to not pay attention to the news is a privilege. Some people must pay attention to the news because it directly impacts
The Greenfield Recorder, The Daily Hampshire Gazette (Northampton), and The Republican (Springfield). The Scroll Editorial Board has definitely benefited from the wealth of resources available from these newspapers; in the past, a paywall prevented us from accessing more than just a few free articles. Finally, interacting with students, faculty, and staff around campus can lead to great discussions. Deerfield students hail from 38 countries and 38 states, and every one of us has valuable experiences and perspectives to share. This diversity of the student body provides opportunities to explore complex topics about American news and international affairs, about which people may not know much. The Scroll Editorial Board hopes that by learning how to present effective arguments backed up by current events, we will be equipped with skills to succeed not only in the classroom but also as an engaged citizen in the world after leaving Deerfield.
Since the Boston Globe article about Deerfield was published, our community has been, at times, immersed in discussions about the legitimacy of its contents. I chose to share my thoughts in the Globe through a Letter to the Editor, which many of you read. After the Globe published my letter, many current students and a few alumni reached out to me to express their support. Some were surprised that I would so vigorously defend Deerfield given my history of writing opinion pieces that were critical of various aspects of our community. I know that some students believe that I dislike Deerfield because I have been critical of it. Two years ago, after I had written an opinion piece defending my decision not to attend Deerfield’s live-streaming of Donald Trump’s inauguration, I received a condescending email from a fellow student suggesting that my comments made him wonder whether I really wanted to be part of this community. This is a sentiment I hear a lot, but Deerfield’s imperfections have made me love it even more. Sounds crazy, I know, but the fact
that I’ve been given the space and time to shine a light on things that matter to me, areas where I think Deerfield has room to grow, and the fact that I’ve been supported by faculty and administrators as I’ve pushed forward with my criticisms, mean that I feel like I’m being heard and making a difference, however small, in this community. When I spoke with the Globe reporter, Kay Lazar, before the publication of her article, she too seemed to have imagined that because I had been critical of small aspects of Deerfield culture, I would wholesale buy into a belief that Deerfield prioritizes the needs of boys over girls. If I hated Deerfield, I would have left this community long ago. If I merely disliked Deerfield, I would not be putting in the effort to write opinion pieces. It is precisely because I love Deerfield that I have, in the past, criticized aspects of our community. Criticism, some say, is the highest form of praise. One additional thing needs to be said here: just as my criticism of Deerfield in past Scroll articles doesn’t mean that I hate it here, don’t assume that because I
wholeheartedly supported Deerfield in my letter to the Globe that I don’t support any girl who comes forward, as Izzy Hamlen does in this issue, to shine a light on the particular challenges that girls face at Deerfield. Recognizing that many faculty members and administrators are working to empower girls doesn’t mean that we can’t also recognize that sometimes people make mistakes. Too much of our school dialogue has been dictated by the Globe article, an artificial assessment of our school propelled forward by outsiders with an agenda that has little to do with wanting to make Deerfield a stronger and more inclusive community. If you, like me, are aware that Deerfield isn’t perfect (what school is?), don’t just sit at the Greer badmouthing our community. Don’t just make memes mocking the imperfections that are part of every community. People here care about your opinions, and I can tell you from experience that if you speak up and speak out, things can change. All the best, Orlee Marini-Rapoport Co-Editor-in-Chief
Sexism Isn’t Just a Deerfield Problem JACK BILL
Contributing Writer When the author of the recent Boston Globe article accused Deerfield of having a toxic culture and of being a poor place for girls to go to school, my first instinct was to scoff at the absurdity of her statements. She did not go to Deerfield, and she made no effort to write an unbiased piece of journalism. Like many students here who also read the article, the first thing I thought was, “She’s attacking my home.” But that was my mistake. Although I believe her message is fundamentally flawed, there is some value in the article. It offers the Deerfield community an opportunity to take a step back and examine its surroundings more thoroughly. I have attended four different schools in the past six years. Two of those were local public schools, one was a private high school, and the fourth is Deerfield. At home and at Deerfield, I do not identify as a female nor have I been a victim of any sort of discrimination, sexist behavior, or harassment; my experience is not the same as that of some others at Deerfield. However, I can say that in the past six years, I have found Deerfield to be the place that most emphasizes healthy relationships and equality among genders. I have only been here for two years, so I cannot speak for what has happened in the past. But the past is in the past, and I believe Deerfield is moving in the right direction. To begin, there is no doubt – at least in my mind – that Deerfield offers equal opportunity to everybody, regardless of gender identity. One can simply look at the leaders on campus as an example. For the first time in history, Deerfield’s Head of School is female. For the first time in history, the Captain Deerfield title – previously only held by one boy each year since 1995 – is now held by both a male and a female student. Last year, our school president was a girl. Several students who do not identify as male hold positions of leadership in extracurricular activities. Just from these examples alone, if need be, I would have no problem sending my daughter (if I’m fortunate enough to have one) to Deerfield. But what about the
things that don’t appear on the admissions brochure? One cannot just look at the obvious examples of female leadership on campus and say that Deerfield clearly fosters only
MARK CHUNG/DEERFIELD SCROLL
healthy relationships and that everybody on campus treats each other with utmost admiration and respect. It would be ignoring 90% of the students and their everyday interactions. Also, it’s just untrue. People at Deerfield lie to each other, say bad things behind each other’s backs, don’t always include others… It is by no means a perfect place. Are we proud of that? Of course not. Are we working on it? Absolutely. While here, I’ve noticed a few differences from my past experiences at the other schools with regard to gender roles and relationships. First off, the “clique” culture at Deerfield is nowhere near as prominent as the two public schools I went to. At home, you could walk into the cafeteria and around the hallways and easily notice distinct herds: football and lacrosse players, band class buddies, the “computer geeks,” and the “popular” girls. This was on top of one other thing: boys and girls never sat together. There was division. It was frustrating for somebody who played lacrosse and football, sang in the chorus, and really enjoyed doing chemistry homework. When I came here, I saw very little of that herd mentality. Yes, sports teams sit with each other at dinner after practice, and yes, you will rarely see a PG walking around unaccompanied by another PG. But it’s different. I sing in three different groups here, and there are athletes in these groups. I sit
with girls at lunch and dinner all the time, and a few of my closest friendships here are with girls. The administration has played a role in this dynamic as well; in converting an all-male upperclassmen dormitory into a freshman coed dormitory, girls and boys are offered the opportunity to develop good relationships with each other from the start. If there are divisions, I’ve yet to find them. Above all, in no other environment am I reminded as much as here that it is an unquestionable obligation of every man on campus to respect women. The private school I attended from 2014 to 2016 was an all-male Catholic school of Marianist order, so while we were taught that respecting women was priority number one, there was nowhere in the building to manifest these teachings (unless we were talking to the women who worked in the cafeteria). All of my coaches here – considering that I play on all-male teams – consistently emphasize this. What sets Deerfield apart from the other places is that this standard is not only maintained by the male students on campus, but expected of one another. In comparing my experiences in other schools at home to my experience here, I would be remiss to say that sexism and discrimination are absent at Deerfield. However, what Kay Lazar failed to recognize in her article is that sexism is everywhere. There’s the workplace, where women are still struggling to narrow the wage gap and continue to be victims of discrimination when looking for employment. There’s the military, where women, regardless of physical capabilities, still face restrictions. There’s the government, where men still hold an overwhelming majority of important positions. On the news, you hear of numerous cases of domestic abuse and sexual harassment. Sexism is in everyday interactions. Does its widespread influence make it acceptable? Definitely not. But the point is that it’s certainly not just a “Deerfield thing.” It’s a cultural thing. It’s a societal problem. And I say with conviction that Deerfield is working hard towards sending their graduates into the world to change this issue.
The Deerfield Scroll
Opinion and Editorial
My Experience as the First Female Captain Deerfield BAILEY CHEETHAM Contributing Writer
Continued from Front At our Pep Rally the night before Choate Day, I was in charge of leading our “Hail Deerfield” chant. The crowd’s response was more than what I could have asked for. After hearing “Hell No” to hailing Choate, I finally felt like I was a part of something bigger than my role as Co-Captain Deerfield. I felt a new sense of family. I was humbled by the outpouring of support and respect that this small but pivotal moment offered. Captain Deerfield is a position that can’t be successful alone; it is a position that needs the heart of the whole Deerfield student body. The morning of Choate Day, I woke up to a rush of
encouragement. The support from alumni and students empowered me to believe that I was capable of being Captain Deerfield. I vividly remember the girls varsity volleyball game. Energy was high, kids were engaged, and the Choate cheers were ready to roll. Although the girls didn’t get the win, it was a hard-fought game, and it was a time that I won’t forget as the peak of my Choate Day experience. Captain Deerfield should always go in seeking victories, but accepting the losses with dignity. Our traditional postgame Fight Song is the epitome of this mentality. That is something special. No experience in life will be perfect. Holding the position as a female Captain Deerfield has not been easy—I won’t sugarcoat it. At times I’ve doubted myself, been intimidated by my classmates, and felt hesitant about
whether or not I could live up to the standard to which I believe Captain Deerfield should be held. But more importantly, I have experienced so much encouragement, love and support. Thus far, this year as Co-Captain Deerfield has been incredibly enriching. I recognize that I have improvements to make, and I won’t be perfect. I want to thank Mikey for navigating this journey with me and supporting me when I needed it the most. For the younger and future students of Deerfield, Captain Deerfield should be a role that embodies the true spirit of Deerfield. Regardless of your height, the pitch of your voice, or any other aspect that characterizes you, what really matters is your love for this place and the overwhelming joy you get from supporting Deerfield talent.
The Endless Cycle of Disordered Eating IZZY HAMLEN
Contributing Writer Continued from Front Ever since those conversations, we’ve made sure that we look after each other – we worry about each other even though it’s been weeks since our last skipped meal. Although we’ve created a strong community that cares for one another, it’s a community that’s built off of a culture that should not have a place at Deerfield. Although we are told to love our bodies, the pressure we put on ourselves to look a certain way fuels unhealthy habits which younger students pick up on. It’s common for girls to restrict themselves from eating during
sit-down and walk-through meals. It’s normal for girls to starve for days or, in some cases, weeks before a school dance, only to find themselves binging afterward to make up for all the food they’ve deprived themselves of – which only encourages the behavior. Everyone notices it, but we don’t do much to change it. In Health class, we learn about eating disorders and body dysmorphia, and we agree that it’s not a good thing, yet this is still an issue that doesn’t get enough attention. The body image culture at Deerfield has flown under the radar for too long. It’s not just a one-case problem. I can guarantee you every girl on campus has
either experienced or knows someone who’s experienced this awful culture. The worst part, however, is that we wait until the very last minute to do anything. We wait until the girl is at the Health Center already five pounds lighter than last week to then educate her and assure her that she’s not alone – let her know that there are others like her. We should be taking action now. The school, teachers, and students should shine a light on this subject, talk about it and denormalize restricted eating. Let girls know that they’re not alone, and don’t ever let them get to the point where they’re putting their health at risk.
Wednesday, January 30th, 2019 | 3
What It Means To Be Heard SAMI HABEL Class of 2016
I graduated from Deerfield and quit co-ed education cold turkey when I stepped into Wellesley College, where most students identify as women. I transitioned from a culture that revolved around the influence of boys to their presence hardly being felt. The refrain among Wellesley students to the first years was this: “After a while, you just don’t notice.” I noticed. Deerfield’s toxic gender culture is a hierarchy determined by the boys, and every action I took was just another charge of my worth for the jury of boys to deliberate. My Wellesley siblings gave me
the freedom I so badly needed but didn’t know existed. Removing boys from my academic life was jarring, but it felt like quitting cold turkey: once you eliminate the harmful thing entirely, it loses its power over you. Leaving Deerfield helped me understand what it meant to be heard and to be respected for what you bring to the table and not how well you fit the mold. Single-gender education taught me what Deerfield couldn’t: selfworth is about the self, and not what “tradition” and “culture” prescribed to me. Women without limitations are a force to be reckoned with, and it is time for Deerfield’s women to defy the norm, own their power, and find their worth.
How To Discuss Sexism at Deerfield ZEV YORK Class of 2018
Not once during my time at Deerfield did I witness a largescale conversation around sexism where everyone involved saw the dialogue as an opportunity to enhance our school as an educational system. The conversation around sexism at Deerfield seems to always revert back to arguments over the validity of experiences or the pedantic semantics of legitimate, painfully lived moments on
statements to save face on behalf of the institution. DA is not a politician. It is not even a person. It should not embarrassed by its failures. Its only goal must be to improve. The intense questioning of people who bravely share their experiences of sexism or discrimination needs to end. Instead of trying to find a flaw in their stories or assess the “validity” of their “arguments,” listen to these stories as no more than narratives. Subverting these words by “asking for evidence”
Character, Not Clothing, Defines The Deerfield Girl
EMILY HENDERSON Contributing Writer
Just before coming to Deerfield for my ninth-grade year, I purchased a pair of Hunter boots. I didn’t give it a lot of thought; I just needed a new pair of rain boots. It wasn’t until I got home and my brother Teddy ’13 told me that owning these boots “officially made me a Deerfield Girl” that I thought twice about my new purchase. I never really considered how this experience might have impacted my perception of who I would be as a Deerfield student, but after reading Kay Lazar’s recent article in the Boston Globe denouncing Deerfield as “a toxic place for girls,” I was inspired to take a moment and reflect on how the stereotype of a “Deerfield Girl” has changed in recent years. The “Deerfield Girl” that I believe in is not the same one that stands as a statue in the Boyden Library, but rather resembles the hundreds of girls who have walked the halls of Deerfield and felt like they could fit in only by adhering to a certain stereotype. In the past, this stereotype revolved largely around material items and clothing. When I asked Teddy what a
“Deerfield Girl” looked like when he was a student here, he said it was a lot about appearance for his female classmates. “There were some things that were staple items of girls at Deerfield… they all had a Longchamp bag that was used as a backpack, and they always wore
commented on the materialistic standard among the female student body in their time here, they were never girls at Deerfield. They simply observed what appeared to be a unified standard among their classmates. But much has changed in the years since their graduations. Today, I don’t see the “Deerfield Girl” as defined by a materialistic stereotype. Though we often comment on Canada Goose jackets, Lululemon leggings, and Golden Goose sneakers, today’s “Deerfield Girl” is defined by her character. I see my own vision of a “Deerfield Girl” in my best friend, Bailey Cheetham. She is a Deerfield girl because she embodies everything that Deerfield values: She is kind, compassionate, hardworking, and she MADELINE LEE/DEERFIELD SCROLL is the most generous Hunter boots,” he said. person I know. My other brother, Connor, Personally, I can’t imagine graduated from Deerfield in 2015. applying one stereotype to the Connor and Teddy overlapped for female student body at Deerfield. two years, but Connor painted a We are all different, and we different version of a “Deerfield have different strengths. It took Girl.” His “Deerfield Girl” wore me a long time to find my place UGGs, a Barbour jacket, and Bean within this community and learn boots. that the only standard I had to live While both of my brothers up to was my own.
campus. As a man, I can not even begin to accurately try to explain the ways in which sexism exists at Deerfield today. As a man, I cannot begin to understand what it is like to receive an email from the Head of School equating my dress with my “Self Worth.” As a man, I don’t know what it’s like to be told that there would be more female student body presidents if there were a larger number of qualified candidates. I have no experiences weighing down these keystrokes, so instead, I will try to speak to what is preventing us from moving forward: the forces that keep students feeling unheard. I am proud of Deerfield, and because of this, l feel secure in my complaints about the institution. Often, while trying to have conversations about Deerfield’s deficiencies, there was a group of boys and girls who felt the need to defend the institution. Each of these conversations were brought up in the hopes of change, but instead were met with brains that were only willing to refute the
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or pointing out a small falsehoods in logic accomplishes very little. It does not improve the institution or address the concerns put forward. Instead, these stories should be seen as an opportunity to improve our institution. Change does not mean abolishing tradition – Deerfield must be pushed along to keep up with the world around it. No one would suggest using a US History syllabus from the 1950s to prepare students for the AP test in 2018. Why then should we limit ourselves to antiquated ideas and constructs as a basis for how we educate our students today? Equating sexism with “social problems almost every teenager deals with in high school” is absurd. The school itself exists as an elitist construct: we believe that we should strive to be the best in every category that exists to judge us. We constantly talk about vying to be the best in sports and the best in academics. Why shouldn’t we strive to be the best school ranked on equity and parity between all students?
4| Wednesday, January 30, 2019
News
Boston Globe Article Stirs Controversy ANNA FU
Associate Editor Continued from Front Many people believe that Deerfield is not a perfect community, and the article did shine a light on issues that do exist at this school. Even students who were bothered by some of the article’s narratives acknowledged the continued presence of gender issues on campus. Rawji said, “There are many problems with gender, some too subtle to cause widespread outrage but significant nonetheless, that the school ignores, whether intentionally or not.” “I do see that Deerfield would be a different experience for a boy and a girl. I wish it wasn’t that way, but it is. There is definitely work to be done,” Durfee said. More specifically, students were appalled by the article’s references to the administration’s handling of reports of sexual misconduct. The article addressed several instances where a recent lawsuit alleges male students sexually harassed or assaulted female peers. Students were especially appalled by the article’s citing of a disciplinary decision in 2015 regarding a young woman’s reporting of sexual assault by a fellow male student. The male student in question got off with no punishment, and the female student was told by
an administrator that the decision was a “very difficult choice [between] a boy’s future and her feelings,” according to former teacher Sonja O’Donnell’s pending lawsuit against the school. Yet some students believed it was inappropriate for Lazar
faculty have actively discussed and shared their own thoughts on these gender-related issues. Thus, many students look to the article as having a positive impact on the community, as it has sparked discourse on a topic many students never would have
“There are many problems with gender, some too subtle to cause widespread outrage but significant nonetheless, that the school ignores, whether intentionally or not.” —Kiana Rawji ’18 to report on sexism and sexual misconduct at Deerfield as if they were exclusive to the institution. Bhakta said, “I think it was a really microcosmic example,
voluntarily discussed. As Bhakta reflected, “I think that this dialogue that has been opened up is important because we can never believe that we’ve
“I do see that Deerfield would be a different experience for a boy and a girl. I wish it wasn’t that way, but it is. There is definitely work to be done.” —Teddy Durfee ’19 because I think the entire country is coming to the same question of what equality looks like and how we can achieve it… The article made it seem as though this was a very Deerfield-centric problem, especially with the title of the article, when in fact it’s very prominent elsewhere in the country.” Students, teachers, and
The cheerleaders of the class of 1945 pose together for a group photo in front of the Dining Hall, over 40 years before Deerfield became coeducational.
achieved the best quality of our school right now. There’s always room to grow, especially in regards to how we can treat each other better.” “We all need to acknowledge both the good and the ugly, instead of picking one side and ignoring the other, in order to move forward and make the school the best it can be,” Rawji said.
DEERFIELD ACADEMY ARCHIVES
COURTESY OF BAILEY CHEETHAM Featured here are the cheerleaders of the Classes of 2019 and 2020 at the top of the Rock. Deerfield has made big changes in the gender diversity of its students since 1945, and Bailey Cheetham ‘19 is the first-ever female Captain Deerfield.
The Deerfield Scroll
Gov. Shutdown Ends SARAH JUNG Associate Editor
The government officially shut down on Dec 22, 2018, and soon became the longest government shutdown in US history. In November 2018, President Trump repeatedly demanded five billion dollars in funding for a border wall between U.S. and Mexico, stating, “We have to build a wall, otherwise you can’t have border security.” Senate Democrats vehemently refused to approve his request, but after Mr. Trump declined to yield his position, the federal government shutdown went into effect on Dec 22. On Jan. 26, Mr. Trump signed a bill to reopen government for three weeks while Congress worked on a more permanent solution. In the ensuing standoff both during the shutdown and now, neither side seems willing to compromise on the wall. Although Democrats have acquiesced to spend more on border security in 2019 than in previous years, offering up to $2.5 billion for increased border security and the installation of cameras, the wall remains the main point of contention for both sides. Democrats are willing to back funding for drones or refitted ports of entry, essentially tightening border security to the point of creating a “smarter” wall. As of late January, Mr. Trump wants $5 billion for what he claimed would be a “big, beautiful wall” that he originally promised his voters that Mexico would pay for, and he insists that he will accept nothing less before permanently reopening government. In turn, Senate Democrats say they will never sign off $5 billion for a wall. However, Senator Mitch McConnell, the Republican leader, accused Democrats of prolonging the shutdown in order to appease their far-left base. He claimed that Democrats are purely motivated by partisanship. Firing back, Chuck Schumer, one of the top Senate Democrats, said the one and only person to blame for the shutdown is the President himself. He argued that Mr. Trump is demanding American taxpayers to allocate $5 billion of their hard-earned money towards an expensive and ineffective border wall. Schumer also reminded Americans that Mr. Trump had originally promised Mexico would pay for the wall. Kate Landino ’20 reflected on the role of political partisanship in recent events and how intraparty disagreements and refusal to work together have caused the shutdown. She offered, “I think the shutdown is an indicator of how our government only works if people want it to work. This is not just a disagreement. It’s two stubborn parties that are refusing to compromise.” The majority of Americans agree with Schumer. Public opinion polls conducted by the Washington Post in mid-January show that over 53% of Americans believe that Mr. Trump and the Republicans are at fault for the shutdown. Only 30% blame Senate Democrats. This comes at a particularly complicated time for Mr. Trump, who is currently under an investigation that will determine if he acted as a covert “Russian agent” during the 2016 election.
According to his advisors, Mr. Trump’s agitation over the Russia investigation is only inflaming his temperament as he negotiates with Democrats over the shutdown, and thus he is less willing to compromise on the issue. After reopening the government for three weeks, Mr. Trump has gone so far as to warn that he would declare a national emergency in order to get his wall built. After nearly a week of publicly discussing the idea with reporters, Mr. Trump did not ultimately declare an emergency. Meanwhile, 800,000 Americans were affected, some dramatically, after not receiving paychecks for over a month. Many workers have been asking themselves how they will pay next month’s rent, costly gas and electricity bills, and most importantly, how they could continue to buy food for their children. Helen Mak ’20 attested to the gravity of the shutdown and indicated the importance of finding mutual agreement between political parties because of the harsh effects of a shutdown. She stated, “Everyone’s entitled to their own values, but people are missing their paychecks because of this political gridlock. I think it’s more important to find a compromise.” With each day that passed, it became harder for the government to recover once it reopened, and could still become even harder if it closes again. The government will be repaying workers who have continued working despite receiving no pay, and bring back key government departments, such as the Department of Homeland Security and Department of Treasury. Pointing to the suffering of American workers, Democrats repeatedly called for an end to the shutdown. Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi asserted that the wall and the shutdown should have nothing to do with each other. Rather, she argued that they should be dealt with separately so that American families can return to work. Several Republicans who are up for reelection in 2020 have also urged Mitch McConnell to find a way to end the shutdown. It is ultimately Mr. Trump’s responsibility to reopen the government when he desires. Although many members of the Deerfield community are not regularly discussing the shutdown and its effects, there are families of students on campus who were directly affected. Students whose parents are government workers or whose siblings are federally employed likely felt the consequences more acutely as the shutdown neared its one month mark. Because of the shutdown’s impact, Samara Cummings ’20 mentioned how the government should adopt a more productive mindset. She stated, “This time could really be used to ponder more innovative solutions.” Although the government shutdown has temporarily ended, given the uncertainty of the national budget status in the coming months, it will be important for politicians in the coming weeks to not let party interests trump heeding the needs of federal workers and the American people.
News
The Deerfield Scroll
Deerfield Honors MLK Day ANNIE KANE
Four Years of Health Class? SETH THAYUMANAVAN
Associate Editor
On Jan. 21 and 22, the Deerfield community gathered for a holiday that is commemorated throughout the United States: Martin Luther King Jr. Day. While many of the ways Deerfield has celebrated MLK Day in the past have remained the same, the leadership for the event added new aspects to the 2019 observance of this holiday. One of the major changes this year is that the school brought several outside speakers to campus, such as Dr. Oluwaferanmi Okanlami ’03, Henia Lewin, and Perry Cohen ’94. Marjorie Young, Director of Inclusion and Community Life explained, “We are focusing more on outside facilitators because we wanted to provide an opportunity for everyone to participate in the workshops. Over the past four years, the format has been that the majority of our workshops were presented by students and employees, often the same employees year after year. Since we have offered more than 25 workshops [every year], this means that a significant number of us are not participating in the workshops. This year we wanted to change that dynamic and bring in new voices, which is why we are relying more on outside facilitators.” Dr. Oluwaferanmi Okanlami led a workshop that discussed the importance of having difficult conversations on diversity, Henia Lewin told her harrowing experience as a childhood survivor of the Holocaust, and Perry Cohen shared his very personal story of “going from a little girl in NH, to member of the second class of girls and the class of ‘94 at Deerfield, to an Ivy League women’s soccer player, to embodying the corporate ideal and then tossing it all to the side to become a man, found a non-profit, and ultimately become an agent of change.” These three workshop facilitators are examples of Deerfield’s goal for its celebration of MLK day: to honor
Wednesday, January 30, 2019 |5
Associate Editor
DEERFIELD ACADEMY COMMUNICATIONS Students and community members engage in a workshop led by Cuban artist Mark Guglielmo on Tuesday Jan. 22.
DEERFIELD ACADEMY COMMUNICATIONS
The Deerfield community gathered at a school meeting on Jan. 22, which began with the viewing of the documentary Witness, which chronicles Dr. Martin Luther King’s final days before his death.
King’s legacy through having conversations about justice and inclusion on campus in as many areas of today’s society. Ms. Young says, “Prioritizing the work of social justice, diversity, and inclusion is how we honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King. Each year we revise and adjust the format of MLK Day in the hopes of best meeting the needs of our community. The goal for MLK day remains the same: to use the time to engage the community in dialogue about inclusion related topics that impact our community, society and the world. Another large addition to this year’s celebration was musical guest Supaman. By leading a workshop and giving a musical performance, Supaman added music to the conversation about social justice that has not been seen in past Deerfield MLK days. Ms. Young explains, “We knew
that Supaman would connect with our student musicians, but he is also raising awareness about the challenges facing America’s Indigenous people.” Supaman’s platform has already attracted many people, with one of his video projects he created to bring awareness to the ongoing epidemic of missing and murdered Indigenous women having garnered nearly 13 million views. In discussing the impact of this addition, Christina Li ’20 shared, “Music is unique because its universal, so wherever you’re from anyone can understand it. It’s all about the emotion.” This revamped program to commemorate the historical efforts towards equality and inclusion Martin Luther King Jr. pursued so many years ago exemplifies Deerfield’s continued effort towards inclusion and awareness of different cultures and voices.
In December, the Curriculum Committee met to discuss a complete overturn of the health issues program at DA. The proposal would change the class from one term to a more comprehensive program taking place across all four years. This initiative is part of a greater push to continue supporting health and wellness at Deerfield, which is also exemplified in the current construction of a health center. “I came in with the expectation that we would be expanding the health curriculum.” said Health Teacher Margaret Brown, who joined the school as a faculty member this year. “There have been conversations about making the health program more comprehensive for years.” Compared to other schools, Deerfield requires relatively little from its students in terms of health issue requirements. Milton Academy, for example, requires its students to meet once a week every term for all four years, and even has health electives. Moreover, Exeter and NMH both adopted health curricula that require two years of classes. The proposed program at Deerfield would take a new approach, concentrating first on the needs of ninth graders. According to Dr. Brown, “Ninthgraders need help learning to study and guidance developing relationships.” The current program takes place in either tenth or eleventh grade. The new program would require students to take health class for two periods a week, all year in ninth grade. It would also require sophomores to complete one term of classes, meeting two days a week, with new sophomores taking the class three times a week instead. Finally, it would focus on providing seniors information as they transfer to college, providing three one-hour informational session and also providing health electives. Dr. Brown also advocated to the Curriculum Committee that new program would have many advantages. Amongst other things, it provides a forum to discuss health-related issues and, according to Dr. Brown, the class may be changed from a one term class, to a class every term should strengthen their decision-making, relationships, and knowledge about health at the Academy. Moreover, the health department hopes that the revamped program, in the long run, will produce better-educated students, which would subsequently create a better, healthier community.
Naturally, the program also carries several implications. The obvious issue facing the community is how it will affect students’ schedules, considering the shift from a one term class to a four year class. Some students, such as David Chen ’20, are worried about the new program, claiming the time commitment outweighs the benefits. Chen stated, “Even If a longer health course was a good idea, it is unreasonable to go from a one term course to a full four years.” time commitment is an issue that Dr. Brown and the other community members have and continue to wrestle with as they prepare to integrate the initiative. Despite this, Dr. Brown is confident that extending the class would not actually be such a big issue. She stated that “We [the school] are working hard to make sure that this doesn’t feel additive to the student schedule.” The increased number of health classes would likely require another health teacher, to help take some of the workload off of Dr. Brown and Ms. Heather Wakeman, the current health teachers. Apart from that, Dr. Brown doesn’t really see any disadvantages to the program that could truly outweigh the advantages. Some students, such as peer counselor Caio Paiva-Oliveira ’20, believe that this program would bring a unique new chance to discuss health topics that can’t be discussed elsewhere. Paiva-Oliveria stated, “I think that adding a more comprehensive health course will allow Deerfield students to expand their knowledge on taboo topics. It might take a bit of effort to change the standard of Deerfield course limits; but it’s a good introduction to a new discussion.” Currently, the program seems very likely to be implemented into our school, but it is unclear when. The initiative requires many individuals from all parts of the community to work together and ensure that the new program is implemented to have as great a positive effect as possible, with as little inconvenience attached. The curriculum itself is currently being finalized, but the timeline is fluid, and it is hard to get a clear estimate of when we can expect the initiative to be implemented. The school has been talking about such a project for years now, and they have finally taken the leap to attempt truly lasting change for our community. Dr. Brown, as well as her peers working together on this initiative are all very excited to see the plan take shape and hopefully, change the community for the better.
DEERFIELD ACADEMY COMMUNICATIONS Vera Menafee ‘20 performs on Monday, January 21 at a music event at which Native American rapper Supaman also performed.
MARK CHUNG/DEERFIELD SCROLL
Features
6 | Wednesday, January 30th, 2019
“Entanglement”: A Preview of TEDxDeerfield TRISHA BOONPONGMANEE Staff Writer
For seven years, TEDxDeerfield has provided residents of the Pioneer Valley with the chance to share topics they are passionate about with the community. This year’s event is in the works, as organizers and speakers prepare to present on their topics under the theme of “entanglement.” This year’s event was organized by a committee of ten students and advisors including English Teacher Elizabeth Mott and Spanish Teacher Jaime Correa, as well as Assistant Head of School for Strategy and Planning David Thiel, who helped organize the first TEDxDeerfield event in 2012. To prepare for the event, the committee is working with the speakers, communicating with the community, and coordinating the technicalities of the event. The event allows communities to understand complicated, relevant ideas, and develop their perspectives by listening to the experiences and opinions of others. In the past, Deerfield community members have broadened their horizons, listening to discussions ranging from “The Risk of a Dying Cosmopolitan Ethic” to “The Power of Kindness.” All talks are in-depth discussions on specific topics, presented in under 18 minutes. Speaker Angelique Alexos ’20, who will discuss the intricacies of journalism, commented, “Limiting [talks] to under 18 minutes really allows an audience to focus in on a certain topic… then glean a lot from listening.” This year, the organizers are anticipating a high turnout that will exceed last year’s. They’re hoping to attract at least 600 listeners. According to organizer Mr. Thiel, “The Academy sponsors
the event and provides a lot of resources, but it’s designed to be by and for the entire local community.” For this year’s event, TEDxDeerfield is welcoming twelve speakers: four members of the surrounding community and eight students from Deerfield Academy. In addition to the talks, TEDxDeerfield will also host four hands-on workshops led by career professionals and other engaging leaders. The diverse lineup of topics includes clandestine online trading in Cuba and the process of talking about suicide. After the speakers were selected from a diverse pool, with an all-time high of 71 applicants, they began submitting a series of documents leading to the final script, including a researched outline, and several rounds of drafts. Valerie Hetherington ’19, who delivered a talk about the Blockchain and Bitcoin under last year’s theme “re:define,” said, “I think it’s important for people to understand exactly what they’re
talking about when it comes to new and exciting technology like that.” She continued, saying that there is also value in learning how to express what you’ve learned: “There is a large difference between writing about a subject and communicating [it] verbally, facing an audience.” As soon as the final scripts are submitted, students will begin to memorize and rehearse in preparation for the real event. The final presentations are similar to speeches, with slides permitted as visual aids. TEDxDeerfield offers audience members and speakers an unparalleled opportunity for development of knowledge and growth. The event encourages members of the community to share ideas they are passionate about with the public, brings together diverse groups of captivated audience members from the Academy and the surrounding community, and enriches the community with varying perspectives and ideas.
COURTESY OF DEERFIELD ACADEMY FLICKR
The Basics of the Niche-Shattering Initiative JEAN CHUN Staff Writer
Student Body President Gerry Alexandre ’19 announced his plans to facilitate a campus-wide game called the Niche-Shattering Initiative, NSI for short, at a school meeting earlier this month. The goal of the game is to encourage students on campus to learn how to recognize everyone on campus, and to reach out to new people in doing so. Alexandre explained, “Everyone comes to Deerfield and finds their own niche. We brag about having a diverse community, but it’s pointless if we just stay in our own group. I want to break that.” The game is a competition, where each of two contestants tries to name as many other Deerfield students as possible. Students’ DAinfo pictures are projected on a screen, and the contestants have to identify as many of their peers’ pictures as they can in 60 seconds. Whoever is able to name the most students in the alloted time wins. If executed properly, preparing for the game should cause students to get out of their comfort zones and meet new people. This would, of course, allow them to recognize more people in the game, but beyond that, help them develop friendships with new people that they might not have met otherwise. The game consists of two types of showdowns, friendly and official, each taking less than seven minutes. Friendly showdowns involve two students
playing against each other, while official showdowns involve two contestants competing with a mediator to award points. The official showdowns are tracked in a tournament-style bracket. Alexandre personally seeded students by hall and day student groups, so the first round of the tournament will exist within the dorms. The tournament will then narrow by winners until there is a school champion. The game will end with Alexandre challenging the final community champion. Alexandre’s hopes are that this game willl be another way to bring the Deerfield community together. He says that one of the main goals of NSI is to make people more inclined to get to know someone, before they make judgments about them. “You hear bad rumors about people you don’t know, and you believe them because you don’t know that person,” he explained. “Even just being able to identify people’s faces and remember their name makes you doubt the rumor for a second. Most of the time, that’s all you need.” While explaining the process of creating the game, Alexandre said, “I started thinking about it in August, and talked about it with my family over Thanksgiving break. They gave me a lot of ideas, so I got really excited and wrote them down.” Soon, he had compiled all of his ideas and asked several Deerfield students for help, under the condition that it was kept confidential. Still, the initiative was far from
complete. Next, the game had to pass through the administration for approval. He set up meetings with Head of School Margarita Curtis and attended bi-weekly dean meetings, and, with guidance from these teachers and administrators, the original plan was altered and improved until it was ready to be announced. The official announcement of this game prompted excitement about getting to know the community a little better. “I think it’s a great way to try and meet new people, since I know that, at Deerfield, people like to stay in their range of friends,” said Jasmine Decossard ’22. However, while many agreed it will help them meet people outside of their usual circle, some suggested that there might be a better way for people to reach out. Jean Jin ’22, commented, “I think it will affect upperclassmen more than underclassmen, since seniors already know a lot of people.” Decossard also expressed concern for people’s possible misinterpretation of the game, saying, “I think you should try to actually get to know that person and not just memorize names, which is not the point.” Despite some hesitation from the community, Alexandre has high hopes for the tournaments success. He is optimistic that NSI will be able to make a positive impact on campus. Alexandre plans for the tournament to begin January 28th, and continue through the winter.
The Deerfield Scroll
Getting to Know Mr. Marshall Carroll SABRINA TICER-WURR Staff Writer
Nestled on the first floor of the Boyden Library, adjacent to the side staircase, is a space not often frequented by most Deerfield students, but certainly important. It is the office of the man who runs it all: Director of the Library Marshall Carroll. “[My favorite part of my job is] working with students,” he says. “That’s why I’m involved with schools and education; it’s because I enjoy working with them and that’s why I’m in the classroom teaching as much as I can.” As Director of the Library, Mr. Carroll is in charge of eight staff members who work together to coordinate the logistics of managing the space. Mr. Carroll likens it to running a small business, where the product is the library’s prolific resources. The team works to deliver information, literacy instruction, textbook resources, and spaces where people can study. Mr. Carroll came to Deerfield two years ago, after spending ten years at Mercersburg Academy in Pennsylvania working with students. Remarking on what drew him to Deerfield, he said, “I really enjoy the people in the community and that’s been what’s really important to me.” In the time that he has spent so far at Deerfield, he has appreciated the welcoming community and how easy it has been for him to find students and colleagues willing to engage and collaborate with him in his work. Since he assumed the position of Director of the Library, Mr. Carroll has been in charge of several new library initiatives. Some of the major initiatives so far have been the acquisition of a new online library catalog and the reevaluation and reorganization of current library resources; eventually, Mr. Carroll hopes to reorganize the current layout of the collection to match patron use. Another initiative orchestrated by Mr. Carroll, in conjunction with other committees and offices, was a new opportunity for sophomores with demonstrated academic capability to spend their study hall time in the library. Under the leadership of Mr. Carroll, the library also held its first annual ‘Poetry Madness’ contest
last April, which occurred during National Poetry Month. The contest, set in the style of a March Madness bracket, prompted members of the community to vote for their favorite poems and to predict the overall bracket in the hope of winning prizes for guessing correctly. This year, the library is running another new contest, which challenges students to design original bookmarks. In addition to directing the library, Mr. Carroll coaches the Deerfield wrestling and crew teams. Mr. Carroll rowed in college at Rutgers University and has coached wrestling for the past fifteen years. This winter, he has challenged the wrestling team to become physically stronger. The number currently on the door to his office, 115, is a running tally and mark of progress towards this goal. “Those are the number of pushups that [the team has] done in the library this term,” he explains. He poses this as motivation for the team and mentions that many team members will stop by to do push-ups with him, which he sees as a fun way to boost morale. As the season goes on, he hopes to see the number grow. Outside of coaching, Mr. Carroll considers himself both an avid sports fan and a patron of the arts. He will often join other faculty members for a game of pickup basketball in the gym or play rugby. He also loves theater, once even flying from Baltimore to Boston to see a production of one of his favorite books A Confederacy of Dunces by John Kennedy Toole, which he loves for its humorous and engaging qualities. Mr. Carroll lives just off of campus and enjoys the valley for little things like the river and the enriching cultural scene of the surrounding area. When he is not enjoying the scenery or reading a good book, he enjoys grilling and smoking meats. Most of all, however, he loves spending time with his family— his expectant wife Sara and his fifteen-month-old daughter Lillian. When asked about what he wants people to know about him, Mr. Carroll responded, “My door is always open and I want people to say ‘hi.’ I want to get to know as many people in the community as I can.”
BRITNEY CHEUNG / DEERFIELD SCROLL
Features
The Deerfield Scroll
Wednesday, January 30th, 2019 | 7
Get Involved! Community Service Opportunities on Campus MAYA LAUR Staff Writer
Deerfield Academy works hard to stay involved in our surrounding community and regularly encourages students to do the same. Dean of Spiritual Life Jan Flaska explained that Community Service has been a vital part of school culture and tradition since the days of Mr. Boyden. “I’m just continuing something that pre-existed me and will post-exist [me],” he said, adding that the Boydens were the first to engage with the community outside of Deerfield. “Service matters. Even though we’re a residential school, it’s [important] to get out into the community [and] to be involved,” Mr. Flaska said. “We have neighbors, and so we should be attentive to them in the same way they have been attentive to us. We’re a big community of people. [We have a responsibility] to share.” He added that there are many ways to get involved in service on and off campus. Deerfield students travel to the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts on Wednesdays
to help them distribute food to partner organizations. Students participate in Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Franklin County, a mentorship program that has been a part of the community for decades, and have organized an internal program where Deerfield students are matched with local children. Also, each year Deerfield distributes about $25,000 to over two dozen students that get Summer Service grants. Mr. Flaska said, “Most [of these grants are] intended to support students serving, working in their local communities.” Some opportunities are simply built into the Deerfield curriculum. Freshman, for example, travel to the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts on MLK Day. Mr. Flaska said, “Part of the reason why we have all the 9th graders participate in this [project] day is to nurture a commitment to service and to advocacy early so that in the coming years they will do these things as well on their own.” That’s true for the rest of the student body as well. Each student completes a service project with their co-curricular at least once a term. Deerfield offers three different Community Service Co-
Curricular activities: volunteering at Deerfield and Sheffield elementary schools, working in the campus greenhouse, and traveling to Second Helpings. Quite a few students also become involved in community engagement through clubs they participate in or classes they take. “It’s good to do good… and it might invite students to find more of those opportunities as they get older,” Mr. Flaska continued. Deerfield students are spearheading their own service opportunities as well. Jordan Manning ‘19 and Francis Gannon ‘21 created a program in which students prepare and serve breakfast at the Salvation Army in Greenfield on Thursday mornings. Other students have worked with Frontier High School to combat opioid addiction in Franklin County. Some student volunteers pass their afternoons in local housing communities, spending time with children whose parents have to work long hours in order to feed their families. Mr. Flaska finished, “Service is always rewarding. It’s not why you should be doing it necessarily… but it’s a consequence of doing something for others, for a cause.
School Emphasizes Integration of New 10th Graders ANEESHA MISHRA Staff Writer
This year, Deerfield faculty and students are making an effort to ensure new sophomores are able to adjust into their grade smoothly and easily. By establishing new policies, the administration is directly addressing the difficulties many new sophomores face fitting into a class that has already formed close bonds. In the past, Green Keys to new sophomores were all juniors but a new policy this year allowed new sophomores to be paired with returning sophomores. Deerfield’s Rising Scholar Program, where a percentage of incoming 9thgraders are given the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the school a week in advance, also accepted new 10th graders this year. And, in perhaps the largest change, a new policy mandated that new sophomores will no longer live in Harold Smith (HS) due to its small size. Helen Mak ’20, who was a new sophomore last year, said she is glad they have enacted this policy in HS. She believes, “It shouldn’t be a dorm at all as it’s way too small […] you’re just so physically away from the rest of your grade.” Through changes like these, Mak believes that the
administration is making significant improvements and addressing the needs of new students, partly in response to a survey that the entire Class of 2020 received regarding what Deerfield could do to ensure all new sophomores were comfortable. Another fundamental change was made this year. Over this past summer, all sophomores received an email inviting them to join the 10th-Grade Integration Committee. The Committee is a new creation, designed to bring the current sophomore class together. Composed of 30 students thus far, anyone can join by simply emailing Ms. Melvoin and showing interest. As of now, they have planned several social events this year, such as the Sophomore Olympics and the Ice-Cream and Ice-Skating socials. Ninth- and Tenth-Grade Dean Rebecca Melvoin said that she came up with the idea during spring of 2017 and sent an email to all sophomores regarding the Committee to gauge interest. She said, “About 30 students said they wanted to join the group, which was overwhelmingly positive and blew me away.” The positive response to this initiative points towards the impact that this Committee hopes to enact on
campus. Chijioke Achebe ’21, 10th Grade Student Council Representative and member of the Committee, said he believes the events the Committee holds are crucial “if we really want each class to be cohesive … which is the goal the school is working towards.” Even though the Committee is dedicated to improving every new sophomores’ experience, some believe it has fallen short of their goal. Caroline Mahony ’21, a current new sophomore, said, “The events were a little effective, but … it would be better to have a little more structure to force people to talk to people they wouldn’t talk to otherwise.” Other students appear to share the sentiment. Daniel Kang ’21 said, “It might be good to hold a more specific event with a more specific activity.” Although some students have criticized the Committee’s events, the Deerfield administration, and community as a whole, is undeniably working hard to aid the assimilation of new students into the Deerfield environment. As Mak put it, “The problem is lack of open-mindedness, and people are only improving and becoming more aware.”
COURTESY OF DEERFIELD ACADEMY FLICKR Willow Woodward ’22 and other members of the Class of 2022 help fight food insecurity at the Food Bank of Western Mass.
The English Department Considers the Canon LILIA BROOKER Senior Writer
MADELINE OLL
FIELD SCR LEE / DEER
The English Department is currently debating whether canonical literature should be a primary part of Deerfield’s English curriculum. The canon refers to books traditionally taught in high school English classes, but some educators question whether these canonical works still hold value for young readers today, many of whom find trouble relating to the characters and subject matter, find political fault with an author’s biases, or are simply unexcited by the idea of reading books by people long before our time. Many point out that the traditional Western canon is made up of authors who are predominantly male, white, and heterosexual. Some contemporary readers find the lack of diversity and the presence of racism, sexism, and anti-Semitism in some canonical literature troubling. English Teacher Andy Stallings has advocated for moving away from teaching the canon. “Any books [are educational] if the students are taking the charge to think critically as a serious charge,” he said. However, many educators, including Deerfield teachers, advocate that a traditional canon remains a valuable aspect of literature. English Department Chair Michael Schloat said, “Classics are important to study for the foundation they offer students— from The Odyssey to the Bible to Shakespeare—for future study, and so they can see how certain stories echo through time.” English Teacher Mark Scandling similarly believes that the canon can be seen as a measure of social progress. In the classroom, he likes to frame canonical texts in their historical contexts while observing them from our modern day. He explained, “Even when we focus on works that seem secure in the ever-changing canon, we try to help students see those old texts both in the cultural contexts in which they were written and in the context in which they are now
read.” Mr. Schloat agreed, “A thorough understanding of the arc of our species’ moral evolution is a necessary part of continuing that progression.” English Teacher Delano Copprue also believes that the canon still holds worth for modern readers, saying, “While the idea of a seemingly exclusive canon within our own cultural moment of inclusion and social justice strikes some as anachronistic, the teachings of those canonical writers, even with their flawed humanity, have much to teach about life.” He explained, “When we turn our attention away from the canon, we miss abundant opportunities to learn about ourselves, especially our shortcomings.” English Teacher Melissa Dickey sees both perspectives; she believes that teaching the canon is important as long as its flaws are discussed, in addition to its beauty. “I’m happy to teach the writers of the canon whom I love and who move me – and the more I pay attention, the more that is true,” Ms. Dickey further explained. “[I teach] critically—discussing the choices the author made, thinking about their perspective, culture, and experiences, but engaging with the flaws and limits there, too.” Mr. Scandling feels that the English Department has to strive for a balanced curriculum that will both inform and excite students. “My sense is that the department has always believed in championing books that will at times broaden the students’ perspectives and at other times allow them perhaps to identify with some of the challenges and experiences the characters face,” he commented. “We want to take students to places familiar and unfamiliar.” Dr. Copprue pointed out that there is no perfect English curriculum, and that students should analytically approach all literature, especially the canon, with an open and eager mind. He concluded, “When it comes to studying the canon, our curiosity is the only ticket needed for admission.”
8 | Wednesday, January 30th, 2019
Expressing Culture Through Art
Arts
The Deerfield Scroll
Spotlight on Winter Artistic Productions HELEN FENG Staff Writer
This year’s Winter Student Choreography Showcase took place last week from Thursday, January 24th to Friday, January 25th, featuring 18 pieces choreographed by members of Deerfield’s academic and creative dance ensembles. Covering a variety of genres ranging from jazz, hip-hop, ballet, tap, and contemporary dance, the production encouraged the creativity of rookie choreographers and experienced members alike, with an emphasis on student leadership and collaborative skills. “The students work together to create the vision of this show,”
become empowered in the process of organizing their own rehearsals and working with their friends to bring a choreographed piece to life. These transferable skills that they develop here are essential to life at and beyond Deerfield.” In addition, members of the theatre co-curricular program have been rehearsing for the winter play, “A Sonnet in Your Pocket”, which will take place from from Tuesday, February 19 to Friday, February 22 at the Black Box Theatre, starting from 7pm. The production will explore the universality and transformative power of love, a prominent theme across the 26 Shakespearean sonnets by which the play is inspired.
only broadens my perspectives towards the possibilities of acting and immersive portrayal, but also increases my awareness and sensitivity as a reader and writer.” Fourth Sukprawit ’19, another participant in the winter play, added, “I so enjoy the process of translating the abstract ideas of the sonnet into something tangible, accessible, and meaningful on a personal level.” Visual, musical, and physical elements play a significant role in transforming Shakespeare’s universal ideas set in Middle English into an accessible form. Mr. Benjamin Grimm, music director and assistant director of the show, said “The play incorporates a
“My favorite part of this process are the moments of putting the show together.” - Selena Martineau ‘19
BRITNEY CHEUNG /DEERFIELD SCROLL
Mark Guglielmo’s exhibit Cuba in Transition will be on display in the Von Auersperg Gallery until Mar 13.
RUTHIE SPENCER Staff Writer
Deerfield is a place where students and visiting artists can uphold and portray their unique cultures. The School’s own theatre, dance, and studio art programs offer the opportunity for students here to explore where art and culture meet. The rotating exhibits in the von Auersperg Gallery and the many performers brought to campus add another layer to the arts at Deerfield. The current exhibit in Deerfield’s von Auersperg Gallery, Cuba in Transition and the MLK day performance by Supaman, are prime examples of Deerfield celebrating the diversity and strength that comes from artists honoring their cultures. Cuba in Transition is a series of photographic collages by Mark Guglielmo. For each piece, Guglielmo layered photographs on top of one another to create a whole image. According to Coordinator of Educational Programs for the Gallery Mercedes Taylor, “They [students] can learn about the differences related to the same culture. You can connect with the images. [The exhibit] invites people to learn about Cuba.” Putting a unique 3D twist on otherwise everyday activities, Guglielmo is clearly conveying his love for Cuba as well as the different lifestyles that, when combined, make for a rich and meaningful exhibition. Mark Guglielmo also chose to add music to accompany his art. “I express how much I love Cuba. There is a lot of passion, joy, love, and human connection; at least for me.” Guglielmo said. His artwork reflects just that, with each collage acting like a window into Cuban life. For example, during the exhibition the viewers can see a man who walks every day with hundreds of cans to be recycled and they visit an elementary school in Cuba. Guglielmo’s goal is to inspire people to go to Cuba, to give back to the people themselves and to uphold the rich and beautiful culture that he’s experienced. Ms. Hemphill, Director of the von Auersperg Gallery, added, “The [photographs] are completely unposed. You can see the scenes are an honest
portrayal of Cuba.” Guglielmo concluded, “Art is powerful. Throughout time we have used visuals to tell a story, whether it’s dance, painting, or photography.” Artistic mediums have a significant role in how an artist demonstrates their culture. Mark Guglielmo’s exhibit on Cuba gives the audience a visual representation of culture. Christian Parrish Takes The Gun, or more widely known as Supaman, is a hip-hop artist from the Crow Reservation in Montana. He uses traditional dance and modern music to share his culture. According to Supaman, dance is a form of coming together and healing. Before his performance at Deerfield, he asked the audience to bow their heads while he led them in a prayer. Speaking in his native language, it was a moment for the audience to reflect, come together, and be grateful for one another. Supaman’s songs and dance clearly speak to the themes of honoring one’s heritage. Each of his songs carefully details a certain aspect of Native American culture and, in doing so, preserves it. The murders and missing persons cases of indigenous native women, a recurring event since the 1970s, have become a pressing concern and issue today. Supaman creates video projects to go along with his music to further explain the meaning of his words to his culture. One of Supaman’s projects was to help further the awareness of the missing and murdered indigenous women, and has since gained 13 million views, succeeding in inspiring people to help the cause. According to Ms. Young, Director of Inclusion and Community Life, “Supaman will educate the Deerfield community about social justice issues related to indigenous people living right here in our country.” Supaman used his art, his music and his dance to uphold and relay current important issues, as well as to demonstrate the traditional dance styles of his culture to modern viewers. As a school with the responsibility to educate, Deerfield does not disappoint, giving students, faculty, and staff the tools and the opportunities to explore rich and diverse cultures. Through the arts, Deerfield teaches its students about the importance of upholding and respecting a variety of cultures.
explained Ms. Jennifer Whitcomb, Director of Deerfield’s Dance Program. “There is no overarching theme throughout the production, as we encourage each studentchoreographer to experiment with stylistic approaches reflective of their own personalities.” In preparation for the showcase, students had been meeting since the fall term for weekly choreography labs, during which they shared their progress and workshop ideas with their peers. “My favorite part of this process are the moments of putting the show together, when we finally get to see all the lightings and costumes falling into place,” said Selena Martineau ’19, who has been active member of the dance program since she joined Deerfield last fall. “It is a wonderful opportunity to practice the administrative process of choreographing a piece, teaching it, adding the soundtrack, and rehearsing until it becomes second nature. Everyone is so passionate and willing to learn, making this experience an incredibly rewarding one.” Ms. Whitcomb elaborated upon this idea, saying, “Students
“This show is quite different from the previous productions we’ve done in that it is an experimental, surrealist romp that follows an emotional structure rather than a narrative plotline,” said Mrs. Lori Clark, director of the production. “Another factor that makes this production unique is its interdisciplinary aspect, as we shaped it into a creative and exuberant playground mixing elements of music, dance, play, comedy, and drama.” Students involved in the play have responded positively to the experimental feature of the play, commenting on how it increases their awareness of group and sensitivity of space, and broadens their perspective on the creative possibilities of theatre performance in connection to personal expression. “The nature of this production encourages me to think outside the box through interacting with different spaces, shapes, and dimensions,” remarked Sabrina Ticer-Wurr ’21, a participant in the production. “My favorite part of the process so far is the act of engaging with the text. It not
variety of musical styles, in addition to a student-composed madrigal quartet with cello and percussion. he show lifts a number of familiar motifs from popular music, and uses them in instrumental form to add musical commentary on the themes of the sonnets.” Thomas Lyons ’21, another participant in the winter production, commented that “the artistic mediums featured in this show offered me an amazing opportunity to step out of my comfort zone. Engaging with dance, choral singing, and a devised theatre piece for the first time was a little scary at first, but I find it increasing rewarding to try out different ways of expression.” “It is wonderful to build this show with a group of brave, brilliant, and hilarious students who are willing to be vulnerable and to play around with different ideas,” added Mrs. Clark. “Our message to the Deerfield community and beyond is to be ready to have fun with the different angles towards the sonnets presented in this show, based on the overarching idea that love can be light and enjoyable just as it is gravitational.”
“I so enjoy the process of translating the abstract ideas of the sonnet into something accessible, and meaningful on a personal level.” - Fourth Sukprawit ‘19
BRITNEY CHEUNG /DEERFIELD SCROLL
Adam Sussbauer ‘20 is rehearsing for the winter play, “A Sonnet in Your Pocket.” The play will take place from Tuesday, Feburary 19th to Friday, Febuary 22nd in the Black Box theatre, beginning at 7 pm. Tickets can be found online.
Arts
The Deerfield Scroll
Bird Box Review ANGELA CUI Staff Writer
Bird Box: the first unfortunate meme of the year and a paradox of bad quality but high popularity. This Netflix original, based on Josh Malerman’s novel Bird Box, stars several famous or rising stars, including Sandra Bullock, Sarah Paulson, Trevante Rhodes, and Bradley Wong. The film explores a post-apocalyptic world, where taking a look at one of the monsters that seem to be everywhere will cause anybody to immediately commit suicide. For two hours and four minutes, viewers follow the journey of Malorie (Sandra Bullock) and her two children down a river to safety, watching as her story unfolds in flashbacks over the span of five years. Despite its popularity, Bird Box has received a multitude of unsatisfied reviews, including a 64% on Rotten Tomatoes, 6.7/10 on IMDb, and 51% on Metacritic. Many critics criticized the movie for its unoriginality, chunky timeline, and undeveloped characters,
survivors who gathered in Greg’s house at the beginning of the movie. Each secondary character is assigned a title, like the pragmatic alcoholic or the protagonist’s lover, and these titles are never disputed— the characters fall short of dynamic and fail to make viewers care about them, except for when they die. Favor for Bird Box is additionally lost through its illogical plot. First, the movie claims that the monsters are biological warfare, then supernatural entities, and does nothing to further either idea. These monsters also originated from Russia, yet how did so many spread across the ocean to America so quickly that almost everyone in Malorie’s town died within a few hours? Finally, these monsters apparently can’t interact with material objects, because otherwise they would have opened the doors of houses and killed people that way. So, what was the point of the monster chasing Malorie in the forest at the end of the movie, if it couldn’t physically harm her anyway? Sadly, these questions will never be answered.
“All such fallacies in the plot of Bird Box, as well as the movie’s silly premise, created the perfect platform for memes.” comparing it to previous sensory deprivation horror films like A Quiet Place. As Amy Nicholson put it, Bird Box is “forcibly screwed together, a movie manipulated by strings of data code,” not to mention the unfortunately uncreative death scenes. The film doesn’t delve deeply into the characters, especially with the hodgepodge of
All these fallacies in Bird Box and the movie’s silly premise created the perfect platform for memes. Most of the memes generated from Bird Box don’t even focus on the movie itself but rather on the use of the blindfold. These memes have grown quite popular, spreading to social media apps like Snapchat, Instagram, and even TikTok. The
spread of such memes served to benefit the movie’s success, stirring up intrigue and interest, consequently making it the most successful Netflix original movie. So, perhaps the bad quality of Bird Box is in reality a marketing tactic; if so, it’s working very well. Jokes aside, the premise of Bird Box does hold potential, even if it was marred by bad production. The multitude of plot holes could be seen as an opportunity for viewers to contemplate the meaning of the movie and form their own conclusions. Some critics also considered the interesting messages and themes of the movie. Bird Box tackles the intersection between people surviving for themselves and ensuring humankind’s survival, as well as Sandra Bullock’s character development as she grows from stoic and emotionally-distanced to nurturing and protective of her children. The film also connects to current day issues, as the monsters could represent the irrational fears of humankind in a rapidly changing modern world. People are only safe as long as they don’t confront their fears, staying inside and hiding instead of finding a way to deal with their issues. Thus, those who do see the monsters and see the beauty in their truth are considered insane and just as dangerous as the people’s fears. After all this, would I recommend this movie? Yes—although I did burst out laughing at some points, the movie did draw me into its premise. Bird Box is trendy thanks to the memes, has quite a few really suspenseful moments, and is great for those who like to dissect movies. So, if anyone is looking for an interesting watch, and is willing to sit through some intense scenes, give Bird Box a chance!
Artwork Exhibition: Henry Pan ’19
Costumes designed by Henry Pan for the 2018 Spring Musical Revue.
“A Gentle Despair,” painted by by Henry Pan.
Wednesday, January 30th, 2019 |9
Artist of the Issue: Henry Pan ’19 HELEN MAK Staff Writer
Henry Pan ‘19 should be considered “the unsung hero of Deerfield Academy’s fine arts department,” said Visual Arts Teacher David Dickinson. Pan has known art for almost all his life. Starting art classes in kindergarten, he enjoyed drawing and painting portraits in his free time. In 7th grade, he started serious training outside of school. With his newly acquired skills in graphite and acrylic painting, he continued working hard by practicing everyday. Watching Pan’s Labyrinth, written by Guillermo del Toro, for the first time was an unusual yet magical experience for Pan. Not many people know about this foreign film, but Pan’s 12 year old self recognized that there was something intriguing about the change in the protagonist’s costumes. His interest in costume design, film and the arts grew from there. “I think my predominant interest in art is just the innate human desire to pursue what’s beautiful to them,” Pan described. Coming from an Australian high school, Pan entered Deerfield as a new sophomore. His passion in art and allowed his education to gradually mold and reshape his thinking. “My interest in and definition of beauty developed,” he expressed
He’s very interested and willing to pursue the arts at numerous levels and the adults who work with him think he’s one of a kind.” While on campus, Pan is either seen working in the Hess or in his English-inspired room. On top of working in the art studio everyday, he has many choral obligations that include singing in the brick church on Sundays and preparing for recitals. Beyond that, he still connects with the dance and theater departments to design costumes for the upcoming dance showcase and winter play, gaining hands on experience with Deerfield’s own students. When asked about the significance of art, Pan said, “People think that art is a spur of the moment thing. It’s not. It requires long term dedication with daily practices just like a musical instrument. It needs far more time and focus than most regular day jobs.” Outside of school, having to travel by himself, Pan enjoys going to different countries and experiencing unfamiliar cultures, especially through an artistic perspective. “Traveling to different places definitely changed my perspective. In regards to art, I learned that each culture should have very different understandings, utilization, methods and lifestyles relating to art,” Pan elaborated. Pan’s classmate, Anna Mishchenko ‘19, said, “I think
“People think that art is a spur of the moment thing. It’s not.” - Henry Pan ‘19 about his time in Deerfield. “In my first year I was challenged in mediums I wasn’t familiar with – like pastel. Working from observation was also a change and presented some unique difficulties. I thought it was a great privilege to draw in such an academic manner.” Pan jumped right into the rigorous AP art program, joined the advanced vocal ensemble, and worked as a costume manager for the theatre and dance programs, leaving a remarkable impression on with whom he worked. Mr Dickinson explained, “He needs no prompting to do this stuff.
what separates Henry from others is how much he lives and breathes art. Whether it’s painting in art class, talking about art history and his courses at [Deerfield], designing the next costumes for cocurric, or just joking around about our art experiences, he’s like the epitome of a training artist” Mr. Dickinson stated, “He really spreads himself quite thin across the arts departments and we [his teachers] really appreciate his energy and his contributions.” In the future, Pan plans to major in costume design and pursue it professionally.
COURTESY OF HENRY PAN
Henry Pan’s rustic, Victorian-style room in Dewey.
BRITNEY CHEUNG /DEERFIELD SCROLL
Sports
10 | Wednesday, January 30th, 2019
Athlete of the Issue: Deirdre Mullowney ’19
Varsity Scores Coed Wrestling
CAIO PAIVA OLVEIRA
0-81
Staff Writer
12-66
Deirdre Mullowney ’19 is a model of great character, perseverance, and excellent work ethic. As Captain of the Varsity Ice Hockey team, her leadership both on and off the ice is highlighted by many of her teammates and coaches, who admire the many qualities that make her worthy of being a tremendous Deerfield athlete. For as long as she can remember, hockey has always been a significant part of Mullowney’s life. Heavy influence from her father, a former Deerfield hockey player who later went on to play at Boston College, and her older brothers, ultimately inspired her to start playing. At the age of four, Mullowney laced up her skates and hasn’t looked back since. “Whether it was going to watch Boston College games, skating on the ponds with my family and friends, or playing on different youth teams growing up, Hockey was always something I wanted to do;” says Mullowney, assuring her love for the sport. As her puck skills grew and developed, so did her aspirations. With hopes of one day playing in a collegiate Division 1 program, Mullowney began looking at prep schools that would best help her grow as a student-athlete. Her decision was set, however, after meeting Coach Genevieve Pitt on a visit nearly four years ago. According to Mullowney, “[Deerfield] was the place that would push me to be the very best that I could be both academically and athletically.” Adding, “I knew it wasn’t going to be easy, but I just felt so comfortable here meeting so many amazing teachers and students.” When asked about a valuable lesson she has learned over the years, Mullowney’s responses highlighted her attitude and work
at NMH vs Avon
Boys Basketball
45-78
vs Loomis Chaffee
Girls Basketball
51-70
at New Hampton
Boys Hockey
3-4 (OT) vs Westminster
Girls Hockey
4-0 vs Taft
Boys Swimming
97-68 vs NMH
Girls Swimming
101-80 vs NMH
Boys Squash
7-0
vs Westminster
Girls Squash
6-1
vs Westminster
Sub-Varsity Scores Boys JV Basektball
39-52
vs Loomis Chaffee
39-42 at Andover
Girls JV Basketball
37-15 at Williston
31-14 at Andover
Boys JV Hockey
1-0
vs Bement
Girls JV Hockey
10-5 at Taft
Coed JV Swimming
74-112 at NMH
Boys JV Squash
8-0
vs Westminster
The Deerfield Scroll
PHOTO COURTESY OF DEERFIELD FLICKR Mullowney (#7) cheers on her teammates during a game against NMH.
ethic in the sport. The biggest takeaway from Mullowney’s 4 years at Deerfield is the value of hard work. “We have set big goals for the team this season and I can’t wait to see how we do in trying to achieve our ultimate goal of making the postseason playoffs,”comments Mullowney. Perseverance has also been a pillar of Mullowney’s Deerfield hockey career. Acknowledging the highs and lows of the sport is essential for progress, and that sticking together is the best way to overcome those obstacles. Being a captain of the girls varsity hockey team, alongside co-captain Ali Fujiyoshi ’19, comes with many responsibilities. Mullowney believes that, “every member of the team is equally important whether they are on the first line or the 4th line;” she adds, “so I want to make sure that all my teammates feel that every day both on and off the ice.” She is described by Girl’s Varsity Head Coach Brooke Fernandez as a leader by example. “Deirdre is
a quiet leader, but she is an effective one, because she leads by example in her actions on and off the ice. She’s never too big to do the little things. Deirdre has fulfilled her role as a captain by being a steady presence in the locker room and on the ice. Her teammates can count on her to bring the same game, and the same intensity and focus, day in and day out.” Her work as captain has been evident to many teammates. Fujiyoshi describes her leadership by saying, “The first thing that comes to mind for me when I think about Deirdre’s play is her confidence with the puck. Many teams don’t know how to handle her speed and puck-skills when she rushes it. Off the ice, she’s a caring teammate who sets an amazing example of how to be a leader for everyone. While she isn’t the loudest person in the locker room, Deirdre always has great points for us to improve on or keep doing during game intermissions.” Fujiyoshi finishes by saying how grateful she is to share
the role of captain with Mullowney and can’t wait to close out the season with her fellow senior. Aurora Devereaux ’20, a teammate and friend of Mullowney, has looked to Mullowney since her first day at the Academy. Devereaux spoke to Mullowney’s leadership saying, “Deirdre has always been an impactful leader, both on the ice and off the ice, whether she wore the C on her jersey or not. She has always had the characteristics of a great team leader and captain. Her composure and intelligence as a player is something I and the other players on the team take great notice of.” She continues saying, “she is an extremely consistent and reliable player, as a teammate everyone knows she can be trusted in every zone to help in any scenario of the game.” But most importantly, Devereaux highlights Mullowney’s best role; that of a close friend. “She has been one of my closest friends in my three years at this school and on the team, her light-hearted fun, impact on the ice, and leadership will be something I will miss next season when she is bringing all of what was previously said up to Boston College for the next four years. Go DDLAX!” Mullowney’s leadership goes beyond just the ice rink, as former JV field hockey teammate Hanna Derringer ’20 expresses her gratitude for Mullowney saying, “Deirdre is a natural leader who is also an exceptionally gifted competitor. She is the perfect representation of a Deerfield student-athlete. Energizing all of her teammates and putting in maximum effort is what makes Deirdre so admirable. Her persistence and diligence are evident throughout every practice and game. “ Mullowney has left her mark on Deerfield’s Hockey Program and continues to step up during her senior season, as Girl’s Varsity Hockey remains undefeated in 2019.
Spotlight on Deerfield Alums Playing Professional Hockey MAGGIE TYDINGS Sports Editor
The Deerfield Hockey Program has matriculated athletes to some of the top universities and hockey programs in the country. Among the program’s most distinguished alumni are Ben Lovejoy, class of 2003, and Molly Schaus, class of 2006. Mr. Lovejoy attended Boston College for one year before transferring to Dartmouth College to
finish his collegiate career. Upon graduating from Dartmouth, Mr. Lovejoy continued his hockey career with the Scranton Penguins, the top minor league affiliate of the Pittsburgh Penguins, for one season before signing with the Pittsburgh in 2008. Mr. Lovejoy also competed with the Anaheim Ducks for three seasons before returning to Pittsburgh. In 2016, Mr. Lovejoy joined the New Jersey Devils. In his first season with the
Ben Lovejoy ‘03
Devils he scored 8 points with 2 goals and 6 assists before winning a Stanley Cup at the conclusion of the season. Ms. Schaus graduated from Boston College in 2010 where she led the Eagles to the Frozen Four in her senior season. As a junior, Ms. Schaus garnered Second Team All-American recognition and in her senior season was awarded First Team All-American honors. During her collegiate career, Ms. Schaus was selected to
the United States National Team where she won 4 gold medals in the International Ice Hockey Federation Championships. Ms. Schaus also competed in both the 2008 and 2012 Olympics with Team USA, winning two silver medals. In 2010, Ms. Schaus was drafted second overall in the CWHL Draft. In the following quotes, Mr. Lovejoy and Ms. Schaus speak to how Deerfield shaped their professional careers on and off the ice.
Molly Schaus ‘06
2016 Stanley Cup Winner, New Jersey Devils
2x Olympic Silver Medalist, US National Team, Worcester Blades
Deerfield was the first time I became serious about hockey. At Deerfield I was surrounded by some of the top players in New England who challenged me on and off the ice to become a better hockey player and a better person. Coach Jim Lindsay and Coach Brendan Creagh helped me work own my game, but also gave me the freedom to be creative and make plays. I am forever grateful for my time playing in the old Deerfield Rink.
Deerfield helped develop me into a complete athlete; playing three sports each year taught me how to handle different coaching styles, thrive in different roles, and learn how to balance my academics with a busy training schedule. What I remember most was the joy of spending afternoons on the lower fields or in the rink, using that time as an escape from the rigors of daily life. The lessons I learned from my coaches and teammates prepared me to handle the pressures of playing professionally and taught me to take pride in doing the little things right to get better each day.
Men’s Hockey
Women’s Hockey
Girls JV Squash
4-3
vs Westminster
Boys Thirds Basketball
40-41
vs Loomis Chaffee
Girls Thirds Basketball
31-32 at Bement
Boys Thirds Squash
5-2
at Suffield
Girls Thirds Squash
1-6
at Andover
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PHOTOS COURTESY OF BEN LOVEJOY AND MOLLY SCHAUS
Sports
The Deerfield Scroll
90 Seconds with Mr. DeMartino NICK FLUTY Staff Writer
Favorite sports team? Yankees. What’s something a lot of people don’t know about you but you wish they did? My grandmother owns horses and I used to ride in competitive horse shows when I was a kid. Craziest thing you’ve ever done? We spray painted the driveway up to one of the schools that we beat, Amity High School, with the score of the game and we painted their rock our school colors, green and gold. What do you want your tombstone to say? I don’t want a tombstone. I want to be cremated and have my ashes spread on Quigley Field, my home high school football field. What would you do if you won the lottery? Good question. I would pay off my student loan[s] and book the best suite at the Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas.
Wednesday, January 30th, 2019 | 11
New Traditions Form in the New Athletic Center ARTHUR YAO Staff Writer
After a year-long hiatus, Deerfield hockey fans can finally enjoy the long-awaited completion of the new athletic center. Ever since the October dedication of the Class of 1993 Hockey Rink, students have fully embraced it as a part of their Deerfield identity. Every Wednesday and Saturday, spectators crowd the bleachers to witness our Green and White warriors battling. The Class of 1993 Hockey Rink was officially opened to the community on October 15th and operates on a daily nine-hour schedule including open skates from 9:00 AM-12:00 PM each weekday except Wednesday. The facility includes stunning features such as high quality ice, a puck shooting room floored with synthetic ice, as well as brand-new locker room spaces for the boys and girls varsity and junior varsity teams. According to Deerfield’s Associate Director of Athletics Jessica Lapanchinski, “This new hockey rink contains more welcoming spaces with new features such as lockers that are open instead of sectioned off, and students can also dress fully in the locker rooms before games and practices, making it much easier to navigate through the complex.” The rink’s improvements have not only made it easier for players to navigate through the complex, it has also inspired a sense of honor among the players. As varsity girls hockey head coach Brooke Fer-
Deerfield fans cheer on the Big Green on Camo Day!
nandez commented, “Our hockey programs are incredibly lucky to play in the new rink – there is a sense of pride in being part of Deerfield hockey, which has only increased with our beautiful home ice.” However, although Deerfield hockey has a new home, it is still valuable to pay tribute to the past. As boys hockey captain Mikey Holland ’19 shared, “There was more of a rigid sense of tradition in the old barn mainly because of its rich history, however with this
COURTESY OF DEERFIELD ACADEMYVIDIGAMI
new rink we can start our own traditions; this is the place where we will create our own history.” Complementing the players’ heightened sense of purpose are the Student Planning Committee’s enhanced efforts to attract crowds. Specifically, this year we have seen an increase in themes (e.g. camouflage, black out, white out, and Hawaiian). As SPC Representative Bailey Cheetham ’19 explained, “This year there are certainly more themes than previous years be-
cause SPC believes that incorporating themes into our different game days gets more people involved and excited to come.” She also mentioned that, “themes make every game day a special day, giving both the players and fans energy to play and cheer respectively.” The new athletic center is a hub of excellence and a celebration of sports at Deerfield. It is not merely a haven for athletes, but rather a hub for the entire Deerfield community that will showcase the glamour
Boys and Girls Swimming & Diving Teams Return to Florida
Boys and Girls Swimming&Diving set off for Coral Springs, Florida on December 27th for a productive and fun training trip. During the trip, the teams had two in-water workouts and one dryland session per day with 5:15am wake-up calls. The trip aimed to provide high-intensity training while also forming a strong connection between the boys and girls programs. Boys Varsity Swimming Head Coach Patricia Bachelor spoke to the outcome of the trip saying, “The boys and girls teams have made relationships that I didn’t see quite as much last year and we have a lot more endurance and speed there that, at this point in the year last year, was not there.” The teams took lots of fun excursions including two dryland workouts on the beach in Deerfield Beach, FL as well as a huge night of mini golf and arcade games on New Year’s Eve. MAGGIE TYDINGS/DEERFIELD SCROLL
The Deerfield Scroll
AirPods: Cop or Drop? MASON ZHAO Staff Writer
Introduced in December of 2016, AirPods are Apple’s wireless earphones. By removing the headphone jack, Apple justified selling these earbuds for $159. Apple’s head of marketing, Phil Schiller explained thatAirPods are a “reason to move on: courage.” The design of the AirPod has been critiqued. The Internet seems to believe that AirPods look like electronic toothbrushes, as shown in the exhibition below:
ment is that AirPods literally block out conversations, which can be shown through this next piece of contemporary art:
PHOTO CREDITS: TRUSTED REVIEWS
PHOTO CREDITS: TRUSTED REVIEWS
Despite the various responses, the large demand for AirPods can be seen on the Deerfield campus. Due to our face-to-face interaction policy, a large number of community members are advocating for AirPods to be banned. The argu-
The sentiment expressed by Patchy the Pirate above is the exact reaction that Deerfield members discourage. Teachers and students alike attempt to engage in productive conversation with those who are wearing AirPods, but to no avail. I have fallen victim to this practice on multiple occasions. Occasionally, when I attempt to talk
to Vojta Kupka ’20, I am met with a simple “Yeah. Sure,” the in-person equivalent of being left on read on Snapchat. While AirPods do distract conversation, they also have positive uses. AirPods provide convenience, clout, and comfort (or CCC). They fit in just about all clothing pockets, even the basically non-existent jean pockets in women’s clothing. Furthermore, those who wear AirPods may develop a new sense of “clout” (Urban Dictionary defines this as respect and influence). Please be reminded that if you do decide to buy AirPods for socalled “clout,” you are spending $159 for an easily disposable piece of machinery. The AirPod debate is never going away: some may criticize them as being distracting and overpriced, while others may advocate for their usefulness. Use your money as you please, but don’t forget that in a matter of months, Apple will most likely release another version of these AirPods. Do you wait for the newest AirPods, buy them now, or not buy them at all?
New Year, Same You JAE WON MOON Associate Editor
As the new year rolls around, everyone begins to mark their to-do lists with different New Year’s resolutions. Although resolutions may range from as small as spending a little less on coffee to as big as donating time every weekend to helping charity, most people settle on very big, and sometimes unrealistic goals for themselves. Some of the most extreme resolutions include going to the gym every single day, completely altering diets, or hoping to plan every second of every day in the calendar. For about two weeks, the gym is packed, Trader Joe’s is bustling, and nobody is late to class; everyone seems to be consistently achieving their goals. But after this two week period, the gym is a little more leisurely, Trader Joe’s stocks are down, and there are a few people creeping into class ten minutes late. The slacking begins to show, and, before they know it, most people are back where they started, sitting on their bed enjoying Netflix with a bag of chips. What could have gone wrong? First, often, New Year’s resolutions are too broad. You need to realize that resolutions do not have to be big goals. For instance, a New Year’s resolution of going to the gym every single day at 6:00 AM, although it may be achievable
Wednesday, January 30th, 2019 | 12
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for some, for most is a big time commitment. Suddenly changing your routine is a challenging task – you are basically trying to alter your entire lifestyle. Instead of these far-fetched, aspirational goals, try to set goals that are specific. For instance, if your goal is to live a healthier lifestyle, then include the gym into your schedule, but if that’s not possible, promise
id plan comes in handy. Promise yourself to only be on your phone for ten minutes at a time; you can even set your phone to lock after you pass your time limit. For underclassmen, really commit to using your study hall hours to do work; if you have finished early, opt out of Netflix and choose to get ahead for the week. Outlining a basic plan for your resolutions can help you achieve your goals. With this specific plan in mind, it even becomes easier to keep track of whether you are actually meeting the expectations of your goals. Finally, it is important to set rewards for meeting your goals. The most important part of New Year’s resolutions is sustainability. Therefore, appreciate yourself for remaining committed to your goals; your shouldn’t be afraid to show yourself MARK CHUNG / DEERFIELD SCROLL some gratitude. For instance, if you are reaching for a highyourself to eat a home-cooked, er average at school, after you healthy meal instead of going out have achieved that average, celewith friends. Rather than trying to brate by taking the extra time on eat a salad for every single meal, Wednesdays to relax and enjoy a try to reduce foods like ice cream movie with your friends. and french fries from your meals. In conclusion, New Year’s Secondly, there is no outlined resolutions are a healthy way plan to help achieve these resfor self-development. By slowly olutions. Some students promchanging your lifestyle with good ise themselves that they will get planning, you can look forward better grades in the new year. to the end of the year when you As good as this sounds, within a will have achieved those goals. So, week, students are commonly left how about setting some realistic, on their phones, procrastinating achievable goals with the right the night away. This is when a solplan this new year?
January Horoscopes TALBOT VON STADE Staff Writer
Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18) As the Leo full moon and eclipse align on Jan 20, you should take a step back and reflect upon the relationships and recent events in your life. This month will bring little change to your life, so focus on the relationships and work you have at hand. As Valentine’s Day approaches, keep an eye out for a new, steady relationship; you might just lock eyes with that special person in the Greer. Pisces (Feb. 19 – Mar. 20) The eclipse aligns your mental and physical stability. Although you sometimes hesitate to expose your true feelings, let loose a little as this month may lead into a new relationship—platonic or romantic. Focus on stability and stay true to your routine. With cold weather ahead, be wary of your health; go to snack time to rejuvenate yourself with some cookies and tea.
and a little more time in the library or devoting more time to your friends, make sure to stay true to your values; this will help you achieve that security. Lean into your relationships, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Leo (Jul. 23 – Aug. 22) As you take advantage of the beginning of 2019, you will find yourself hesitant to move on from the past. However, as the eclipse shines, a new confidence will prompt you to take on different challenges. Also with the new eclipse, love may spark up a new relationship. Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22) You will feel motivated to participate in coversations and voice your opinions. Although you may feel the events of the past holding you back, don’t be afraid to forge ahead as your past has no effect on your future. Look for friends, as you may find yourself giving advice to others as they look to you for earnest advice.
Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22) Aries (Mar. 21 You will find – Apr. 19) yourself in many You will be positions of powfull of energy er in which you this month as have the responyou meet new sibility to make people and try important decisions. new things; go to Make sure not to get the sporting events and carried away with the school socials to share stress, and stay true MARK CHUNG/ this positive enerto your values. Try to DEERFIELD SCROLL gy. A combination of balance the company academic and social successes will of others with some alone time. Someleave you feeling rewarded and fultimes a night with friends and Netflix filled. With Mercury on your side, it may make you the most happy. wouldn’t be a bad idea to take some chances—listen to your feelings inScorpio (Oct. 21 – Nov. 21) stead of pushing them away. You will feel motivated this winter as the new year opens up many Taurus (Apr. 20 – May 20) new opportunities for you. As you With the cold, snowy months are surrounded by talented peers, you ahead, your mind is back at home. will find yourself inspired to take on Communication and expressing your a bigger role. When you reflect upon feelings will help you find peace of your own strength, appreciate those mind, no matter how far you are from who have helped you along the way. home. With Mercury in your work sector, take the extra time to revise Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21) your paper or look over your math With another year under your homework; the hard work will truly wing, you will feel a surge of crepay off. ativity. You will feel empowered to make decisions more quickly and take Gemini (May 21 – Jun. 20) control your own life. Don’t be afraid Although you can be quiet and to jump to the board in math class or introverted at times, your creative share your awesome point in history side blossoms this month and you class as your peers may learn a thing will find yourself more eager to voice or two from you. your ideas. With the eclipse, you may feel inclined to travel abroad. Even if Capricorn (Dece. 22 – Jan. 19) it may be daunting, don’t be afraid to It’s time to let loose; don’t be afraid contact Mr. Savage or Ms. Hemphill to let people see the real you. You will for SYA or Mr. Miller or Ms. Wakebegin to feel more comfortable in your man for a Global Studies trip. own skin; spending time alone will aid you in this process. Continue to Cancer (Jun. 21- Jul. 22) work hard at school work and relaThis month, you will find yourself tionships as even when these tasks craving stability. Whether this means may feel most difficult, success will spending a little less time at the Greer come.
90 Seconds With Dr. Austin GRACE RUSSELL Staff Writer
Is there a story behind your name or anyone in your family’s name? “I come from a family of Johns. My father’s name was John Edward. My family calls me John Peter, our son’s name is John Alexander, and my brother-in-law is John Fouad. Family gatherings can be challenging.” What is your favorite animal? “Olive, our wirehaired Dachshund and Zeitoun and Zaatar, our Jordanian rescue cats (all soon-to-be Deerfield residents).”
Italian food or Chinese food? NATASHA LEONG/DEERFIELD SCROLL
“Both. I am an enthusiastic and equal-opportunity eater.”
What is the biggest piece of advice you would give to high schoolers today? “Find things you love doing; be open to new ideas, new experiences, and new people. Work hard and persevere. Read. Be a good friend.” What are your favorite pizza toppings? “Mushroom and eggplant.”
If your life was made into a movie, what would the title be and who would play you? “Tough question. “Schooled?” Not sure what actor would be tempted. It might be a little slow-paced, and probably is not likely to be a box office hit…”
What is the coolest place you have ever traveled to?
What was your favorite class in high school?
“Scuba diving, fifty meters deep in the Red Sea off Ras Mohammed National Park in Sinai, Egypt with my wife, Ms. Matouk.”
“Mr. Speers’ grade 11 English.”
What aspect of Deerfield are you most looking forward to? “The people—and returning to Western MA.”
What is your favorite book? “Impossible to answer! Here are my favorite reads of the last six months: The Great Believers by Rebecca Makkai; Salvage the Bones by Jesmyn Ward; A Visit from the Goon Squad by Jennifer Egan.”
What is one thing about you that very few people know? “Once upon a time I was an avid skateboarder and surfer. Now I paddle board.” What is your favorite sports team? “UNC Tar Heels and Liverpool F.C.” Where did you grow up? “Kitty Hawk—the Outer Banks of North Carolina.”