Flint Hill Magazine - Spring/Summer 2023

THE CLASS OF 2023

SETTING THE STANDARD

P. 20

DEV SETHI ’02

COMMENCING A NEW CHAPTER

Unfollowing the Narrative to Follow His Dreams P. 22

SPRING/SUMMER 2023 MAGAZINE

3320 Jermantown Road, Oakton, VA 22124

FLINTHILL.ORG

PREFER PAPERLESS DELIVERY ONLY?

Go to flinthill.org/paperless to opt out of receiving Flint Hill Magazine by mail. You can always find the latest edition on our website, and we’ll email you when new issues are published.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES 2022–2023

Miss Lucia Anna Trigiani, Chair

Mr. Michael P. Corkery, Vice Chair

Mr. Gary D. Rappaport, Treasurer

Mr. Patrick McHonett, Secretary

Mr. Omar Balkissoon

Ms. Alexandra L. Bettius ’03

Mr. Taylor O. Chess

Mr. Nathaniel A. Davis

Mr. H. Edward Dean III

Mrs. Linnie M. Haynesworth

Mr. Eric D. Hemmer

Mrs. Miki Toliver King

Mr. Richard P. Moxley

Mr. Joseph L. Musella

Mr. Terry A. Nelson

Mr. Terry Y. Pao

Mrs. Tanaia W. Parker

Mrs. Liza Wright Renner

Mr. Timothy R. Rupli

Mrs. KayAnn P. Schoeneman

Mr. Hugh E. Taylor

Mr. John M. Wasson

Dr. Howard-John Wesley

Mr. David S. Wiley

TRUSTEES EMERITI

The late Mr. John T. Hazel Jr., Founding Chairman Emeritus

Sister Martha Carpenter, O.S.F.

Mr. Edward R. Carr

Mr. Otis D. Coston Jr.

Mr. John M. Dowd

The Honorable Johanna L. Fitzpatrick

Mr. Richard J. Hendrix

Mr. Paul C. Kincheloe Jr.

Mr. Michael C. McCarey

Mr. William N. Melton

Mr. Norris E. Mitchell

Mr. John M. Thomas

The late Reverend Edwin M. Ward

Flint Hill Community,

I am thrilled to share with you the Spring/Summer 2023 issue of Flint Hill Magazine. It’s amazing to me that — at just this time last year — my family and I were moving to Oakton, readying to join the Husky team as our school’s next Head of School.

The most common question I’ve received over the course of this year has been, “Is Flint Hill everything you had expected?” The answer is an emphatic, “Yes! And then some!” I believe the following pages will illustrate how we continue to be a truly special place.

I joined Flint Hill because of its mission and core values, its commitment to community and belonging, and its innovative curriculum focusing on the whole child. Over the course of this school year, we have leaned into these central tenets on a daily basis. This issue will punctuate a bit of what I’ve experienced at Flint Hill: remarkable student performances and academic achievement, impactful community service, and strong connection with alumni. You’ll also find a story that heralds teacher and coach Jody Patrick, who represents our unparalleled faculty with her ongoing dedication to student-athletes and advocacy for sports equity near and far.

Finally, we celebrate the Class of 2023, a truly dedicated group of 129 students who each made an impact in thoughts and actions here at Flint Hill. Their commencement ceremony featured time-tested, sage advice from our alumni speaker, Dev Sethi ’02, who encouraged our graduates to embrace life’s challenges as opportunities for growth. Whether at Flint Hill, in college, or as leaders in the world beyond, our Huskies make us proud wherever they are.

I hope you enjoy reading these reflections from the 202223 school year as much as I enjoyed supporting the devoted faculty, staff, students, families, and alumni who made my first year at Flint Hill so exceptional.

Go Huskies!

LETTER FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

Patrick McHonett Head of School

CAMPUS LIFE

MAMMA MIA!

Audiences were transported to the 1970s during the Upper School musical production of “Mamma Mia!” Abby Lyons ’23 (pictured) won Best Actress at the Brandon Victor Dixon Awards for her performance as Donna.

CAMPUS LIFE TRADITION 2.0

ON FEBRUARY 8, the Flint Hill community celebrated Flint Hill Day, previously known as Founder’s Day. The event was reframed to focus the ceremony on the present-day impact made by individuals at Flint Hill. Driving Spirit Awards were given as a recognition of Flint Hill employees who lead by example through dedication to students and the positive energy they bring to our community. This year, they were presented to Upper School Science Teacher Zita Gray, Kindergarten Teacher Jessica Craig, All-School Band Teacher Dereck Scott, and Upper School English Teacher

Valerie Morehouse. Four employees were also recognized for 20 years of service at Flint Hill: Middle School Makers Teacher Chris Cook, Technology and Instruction Department Chair and All-School Service Coordinator Jennifer McKain, School Registrar Maha Morse, and Upper School Math Teacher Dave Walsh.

SweetIngredients

BLUEBERRIES, SUGAR, AND THE CARING TOUCH

of the 4th grade class were blended into muffins prepared for neighbors who benefit from Fairfax County’s Hypothermia Prevention Program, which provides food, warm shelter, and supportive services in the winter months for adults in need. The program was administered in partnership with various faith communities in the county, and the students’ sweet baked goods were sent to St. John Neumann Catholic Community Church in Reston. The students were thoroughly engaged in the process, working together to follow the recipe, measure and mix ingredients, and — of course — clean up.

ON STAGE

LOWER, MIDDLE, AND UPPER SCHOOL STUDENTS

entertained audiences throughout the spring with music, dance, and theatrical performances. Students in 5th and 6th grades performed a film-noir production of “Ace Diamond: Fairy Tale Detective.” Middle School students brought the laughs in the comedy “Robin Hood and His Merry Men.” Upper School playwriting students showcased original work at the 10-Minute Play Festival — short plays written, directed, performed, and designed entirely by the students. The Upper School theater troupe delighted crowds with three sold-out performances of “Mamma Mia!” Our Upper School performing artists also shined at Arts Jam at George Mason University with band, choir, orchestra, percussion, dance, and theater ensemble performances created in the spirit of the night’s theme, “Celebration.”

ACE DIAMOND: FAIRY TALE DETECTIVE

MAMMA MIA ARTS JAM

ROBIN HOOD & HIS MERRY MEN

10-MINUTE PLAYS

ON EXHIBIT

This spring’s Upper School Visual Arts Show featured more than 500 student-created works of art in a variety of mediums, including drawing, painting, ceramics, filmmaking, animation, photography, and graphic design. The show also highlighted the work of students in Portfolio Art in an exhibition titled “Piecing It Together.”

Explore the full collection of photos from these events and more on Flickr.

FLINTHILL.ORG/FLICKR

Night on the Hill

On a beautiful evening in April, over 300 community members gathered in the Peterson Middle School and on the John M. Thomas Terrace to enjoy an evening of connection and celebration for no other reason than to just be together.

AFTERNOON ON THE GREEN

THE WEATHER PAINTED THE PERFECT BACKDROP for a day of community building on the links for our annual Golf Invitational! The Husky spirit was evident and everyone came together to support the Parents’ Association Endowment for Financial Aid in Honor of Sally Hazel.

It was exciting to see a large showing of younger alums who returned for some friendly competition for the Alumni Cup, which is given to the top all-alumni foursome. This year’s winners were Austin Ayers ’20, Porter Hoel ’22, Ezra Liu ’22, and Brendan Wheeler ’20.

Thank you to our generous sponsors and incredible co-chairs for their hard work, new ideas, and enthusiasm to help us make this day special: Ryan Bateman P’31; Ted Kramer P’19, ’19; Karen Landwehr P’22, ’27; Susan Murphy P’22, ’24, ’26, ’31; Jon Peterson P’09, ’10, ’14, Leslie Rhodes P’20, ’26; Hugh Taylor P’16, ’18; Aidan Wheeler ’18; and Andy Woods P’35.

ILLUSTRATING THE PROCESS

GRAPHIC NOVELIST AND ILLUSTRATOR

Gareth Hinds was the special guest for Writers Day 2023 on February 28. He gave multimedia presentations at Upper and Middle School assemblies and spent time teaching in an Upper School classroom, where he offered a hands-on, visual storytelling workshop.

“Hinds brings classic literature to life through his many graphic novel adaptations,” said English Department Chair Maia Schmidt. “He coached students on how to come up with characters and plots, how to communicate through images, and how to practice changing foci in a graphic story. He illuminated the mathematics behind animating characters in video game design as well as his methods for brainstorming and adapting texts through a combination of hand-drawings, digital tools, and watercolor painting. His practical tips and engagement with the students made this a very practical, engaging, and welcome program.”

Self on a Shelf

FOR A PROJECT called In Our Hearts and On Our Shelves, 6th grade students shared stories about themselves by filling the shelves of miniature bookcases, 5 inch by 5 inch, with books and items that they enjoy. In total, 55 bookcases — one per student — were made and displayed prominently at the Lower School. The project was a collaboration between the Language Arts and Innovation Departments. Language Arts Department Chair Christine Dwyer provided the students with questions to help them determine which books and items portray their authentic selves — questions like, “If you curated a mini-museum, what might you include?” Then, in Innovation class, the students laser-cut, sanded, and painted the bookshelves. They learned software (Adobe Illustrator and Tinkercad) to design covers for their books and to precisely size the items to scale and used the 3D printer to make some of the objects. Innovation Teacher Sarah Magner guided the students in the bookcase production. Sarah initiated the project after receiving her own miniature bookcase from her daughter, Flint Hill alum Abby Magner ’16, who filled her mini-bookshelf with books that her mother read to her during childhood.

COMPREHENSION THROUGH CORRESPONDENCE

IN WORLD CULTURES HISTORY CLASS,

8th graders participated in a pen pal program with peers of their age who live in Ukraine. “Every few days or sometimes a few weeks, the students exchanged a few lines with their pen pals,” explained Middle School History Teacher Joe Predebon, “realizing that, although in a country resiliently fighting against an invading army, those students had similar dreams, aspirations, and many of the same hobbies.” Sophie Ely ’27, who corresponded via email with her pen pal, Nastia, commented that

the program has given her a way to “make a new friend and understand how a person lives under different circumstances.”

“Overall, the students have enjoyed the experience,” Joe said, “and many hope to continue the friendships they formed. No matter what, they have expanded their horizons and learned more about the world outside of their immediate community.”

To the Beat of Their Drum

WITHIN MINUTES OF MEETING the students from the Upper School’s African Studies course, guest presenters from Ni Dembaya African Drum and Dance Ensemble, led by Paul Joseph, had them all on their feet jumping, clapping, laughing, and moving limbs freely in the air. The visit was timed with a unit of study pertaining to the African continent’s varied expressions of music and dance. “Paul led the class in learning a coming-ofage dance from the Malinke people who inhabit areas of both Guinea and Mali,” said Upper School History and Social Sciences Teacher Kristoff Kohlhagen. “The students enthusiastically embraced the opportunity to learn, and each one pushed themselves to master the energetic and oftentimes difficult steps. Paul taught the students about how the drums’ rhythms and dancers’ movement work together to create a cohesive and all-encompassing experience. To gain a deeper understanding of African cultures, it is imperative to recognize the central role that music and dance play.”

Reflecting Back

250 GRANDPARENTS AND SPECIAL FRIENDS joined lower schoolers for a morning of connection on May 12. The generational pairs participated in classroom activities like creating artwork, playing P.E. games, sharing books, and even dissecting owl pellets. We caught up with four Lower School students and their special guests who commented on what is most different from what they see at Flint Hill and what they experienced in their grade school.

My school was very small. Most everything we learned about the world we learned through books. No iPads, no recording devices. The teachers really had to bring all of that alive for us. Their descriptions of how the world worked were important and fun. Because we walked to school, we had to carry all our skis and boots to and from school because our skiing classes were at lunch!

–Diane Ward, Special Friend of Ciaran Lindroos ’32, (pictured with Kim Ward and Becky Raucci)

The difference is technology. With all the electronics and tablets that you use — we just had paper, pencils, and pens. That was our technology back then!

–Frank Johnson, Grandfather of Melissa Greene ’34, (pictured with Diane Johnson)

It’s so long ago, I can’t remember! The technology — we didn’t have all this.

–Lan Spruell, Grandmother of Parker Woods ’35, (pictured with Pat Woods and Wayne Spruell)

Oh my goodness, I don’t know where to begin. I walked a mile to school, a mile home at lunch, a mile back after lunch, and then a mile at the end of the day. The school wasn’t far enough away to get a school bus. When we had assignments, we had to go to the library to look up things and use encyclopedias. You have such advantages. It’s one of the reasons you all are so far ahead in classes!

–Bernadette Stack, Grandmother of Lucy Stack ’29

TEACHING EMPOWERMENT

Caralena Peterson ’10, author of The Effortless Perfection Myth, returned to campus to share her expertise on the subject of mental health with the Flint Hill community.

She visited with the senior class, had lunch with Upper School student leaders, and spent time in the Middle School with 8th graders talking about dominant vs. alternative narratives.

In the evening, the Alumni Office and Parents’ Association co-hosted a meet & greet with Caralena in addition to a book discussion: “Beneath the Surface: What Your Seemingly Selfsufficient Child Secretly Wants From You.” She fielded questions from the audience and participated in a Q&A moderated by her former teacher and lifelong friend, Upper School English Teacher Tracy Peterson.

CROSS-CAMPUS CONNECTION

UPPER SCHOOL GRAPHIC DESIGN students made their way to the Junior Kindergarten classroom in the Lower School to engage our youngest Huskies in some fun visual design exercises, and, in turn, gained an appreciation for the vast visual imagination of 5-year-olds.

On Track to Greatness

MEMBERS OF THE VARSITY TRACK & FIELD TEAM shattered seven school records during a thrilling spring season. Matt Harper ’24 posted a new Flint Hill best in discus, Chanel Harvey ’24 in shot put, Caleb

in high jump, Andrew King ’24 in the 100 meter dash,

in shot put, Clara

in

’24, and David Parkes-Johnson ’26 combined to set a new school record in the 4x100 meter relay.

Ty Harris ’26, Caleb Ihegihu ’24, Andrew

Ihegihu ’24

Anwaar Smith ’24

Stevens ’24

discus.

King

End-of-School Rites

FROM THE WATER SLIDE to the potato sack races, Field Day 2023 was an action-packed and joy-filled conclusion to a memorable school year.

GOING ABOVE

GREAT EXPECTATIONS

“Expectations should be high, but without creating an environment that sparks motivation and sustains engagement, you may not meet them.”

—Mike Corkery

As CEO of Deltek, the leading provider of software and solutions for project-based businesses, Mike Corkery has perfected the art of setting and meeting high expectations. Business has grown three-fold since he took the helm of the Herndon-based company in 2012. Today, Deltek employs over 3,000 people and services more than 30,000 customers worldwide.

With Mike, it’s never “me” — it’s always “we.” He gives credit to his team when discussing Deltek’s successes, like being named one of the best places to work in the D.C. area by the Washington Post — seven times. “We’re very proud of that recognition,” Mike says. “We try to make sure our employees are set up with the tools and inspiration they need to excel at what they do.”

He believes in giving employees the time and space to balance their priorities at home and in their community with their responsibilities in the workplace. “We want team members to bring their whole self to the office,” Mike says, contending there’s a definite correlation between feeling seen and appreciated and high productivity levels. “Our customers defend the country, keep our information secure, and build roads and arenas. We’re passionate about helping them deliver on those missions.”

Twice now Mike has been named to the Virginia 500 Power List, a listing that recognizes the state’s most influential leaders by sector. Embracing Deltek’s core values of innovation and evolution has been central to his accomplishments. Mike emphasizes the need to “evolve at the pace of your market and your customers, not at the pace that’s comfortable for you.” He applauds Flint Hill for that same willingness to step into change. “The outside world dictates the speed at which you innovate. Flint

Hill has embraced that fact,” he says, celebrating the School’s nonstop growth and progress.

Back in 2010, when he and his wife, Alison, were searching for a school home for their daughters, they were impressed by Flint Hill’s unique combination of community and academic rigor. “There was this level of support balanced with a level of accountability that’s really rare,” Mike recalls. He commends the impact Flint Hill has had on his daughters, Hailey ’16 and Chloe ’18. “They are so much more self-directed and aware of opportunities than I ever was at that age,” he notes. “They have the ability to self advocate because that was an expectation at Flint Hill.”

Mike joined the Board to ensure the School stayed in the position to deliver that experience to other families. He admits he’s “never been shy with [his] point of view.” His fellow trustees welcome that straightforward style as a complement to the Board’s growing diversity of thought. Characterized as an insightful sounding board and shrewd strategic partner, Mike helped see Flint Hill through major milestones like the completion of the Peterson Middle School and this year’s leadership transition. As Head of School Patrick McHonett puts it, “Mike brought a clear, no-frills New York approach to our conversations that always cut to the heart of a matter, and allowed Flint Hill to bring laser-like focus to the needs and opportunities available to enhance our Husky experience.”

Mike and Alison will soon make their gradual relocation to Florida official and thus Mike will exit Flint Hill’s Board after six impactful years. “We’ve been part of this community for 13 years, we’ll never fully leave it,” Mike promises. He departs with confidence in the School’s ability to continue delivering on its important mission and with great expectations he knows Flint Hill is more than equipped to meet.

Evolve at the pace of your market and your customers, not at the pace that’s comfortable for you.

Two industry trailblazers leave their mark on Flint Hill.

ABOVE BOARD

FAMILY FIRST

Gary Rappaport credits this guiding philosophy for the indelible mark he’s made as a devoted family man, commercial real estate developer, and contributing member of the greater DC community.

While his passion for business and commitment to philanthropy has shaped Gary’s career, his dedication to family is clearly what drives him. Of the two dozen or so photographs displayed in his office, almost every one is a sweet salute to his large family, which includes his wife, five daughters, and eight grandchildren. Gary’s learned that being consistently present for them takes prioritization. “We can always find the time if we wish to,” he affirms.

Gary started his real estate company, Rappaport, in 1984 when he raised $35,000 to buy a shopping center in Baltimore — a property he still owns today, along with several dozen other commercial properties. While he’s been amassing square footage for five decades — over 14 million — he’s also been earning admiration and respect. “My reputation is what is most important to me,” Gary says of the importance of being regarded well by his tenants, employees, and peers.

He was raised to value hard work. At 12, he began shadowing his father who worked as a tie manufacturer in New York City. Along with learning about darts and loop labels, he also learned the intrinsic value of taking pride in the work you do, whatever that may be. “There was a man whose only job was to press the ties,” Gary recalls. “I’ll never forget how seriously he took that job.”

While he has echoed his father’s work ethic, Gary adopted a different approach as to risk. “My father grew up with the fear that comes from living through the Depression,” Gary explains. “I was privileged. I never had to worry about a roof over my head or food on the table. I was willing to take great risk for great return.”

His risk-tolerant real estate strategy is detailed in his book, Investing in Retail Properties, which he wrote with young entrepreneurs in mind. The third edition of the book is presently available for purchase with all proceeds going to the ICSC Foundation – the retail trade association educational foundation. “You don’t make money on business books,” he says. “I wrote the book to help others reach their dreams.” He also brings those

lessons into the classroom as a frequent guest lecturer at universities like Johns Hopkins, Georgetown, American, and George Mason. “If I can help one to reach their dreams sooner than they otherwise could have done,” he says, “the hope is that one day they will do the same for someone else.”

The responsibility to pass it on is what led Gary to Flint Hill’s Board of Trustees in 2013. At one point, Gary had two daughters and three grandchildren at the school at the same time. He wanted to give back in recognition of how they benefited from a Flint Hill education - particularly for his daughter Jessica ’17, who burgeoned into a talented artist during her time as a Husky and is now an accomplished glass blower and ceramicist.

“I was asked to join the Board because of my financial expertise, but there is a time to leave,” Gary says about his decision to roll off the Board. “Young, dynamic, intelligent people need to see a place on the Board and I want to make sure there’s a seat for them.”

He’s most proud to have overseen a growth in financial stability during his time as Chair of the Finance Committee. “Without Gary’s steady hand and visionary partnership, we would not be in the strong position we are today,” notes Head of School Patrick McHonett. “Knowing when to be aggressive as we were in building the Peterson Middle School and when to be prudent — in growing our endowment — is equal parts art and science. Gary helped steer us in the right direction at every turn.”

Gary will conclude his 10-year Board service with the unwavering respect of his fellow trustees, immense gratitude from the Flint Hill community, and hopefully, a little more time to spend with his family.

“In life, first spend a third of your time with your family, and then a third of your time dedicated to your business, and a third of your time giving back to others.”

— Gary Rappaport

If I can help one to reach their dreams sooner than they otherwise could have done, the hope is that one day they will do the same for someone else.

Since 2001, Jody Patrick has served Flint Hill as a coach, teacher, advocate, mentor, and friend to both students and colleagues alike. This year, the School surprised her with a special honor in recognition of her already immeasurable legacy.

During the annual National Girls and Women in Sports Day luncheon held at the Upper School on February 1, Director of Athletics Dewayne Robinson announced the creation of the Jody Patrick Spirit Award. The award recognizes a female student-athlete, coach, or faculty member who has had an immense impact on student-athletes and sports at Flint Hill.

“It’s about time Jody got an award named after her,” remarked one of Jody’s colleagues, Stephanie Batbouta.

For Stephanie, an Upper School Learning Specialist, the former Head Varsity Girls’ Soccer Coach, and a college athlete herself, working alongside Jody has been a privilege. “You want your daughter to be coached by a Jody Patrick,” Stephanie said. “She paved the way for so many of us as a pioneer in the Title IX movement.”

As both the namesake and inaugural recipient of the award, Jody accepted the honor by reflecting on the ways her life has been transformed by Title IX, the federal law that barred discrimination against women and girls in sports.

“My generation’s female student-athletes were the beneficiaries of the hard work of Patsy Mink, Edith Green, and Birch Bayh. Through their determination on Capitol Hill, previously locked doors have been opened for millions of girls and women in sports, education, law, medicine, engineering, politics, journalism — the list goes on.”

Jody grew up the youngest of nine siblings in the suburbs of New York City, as well as in the Finger Lakes area of Upstate New York. She admired watching her older brothers compete in team sports and developed an athletic prowess that rivaled theirs, especially on the basketball court.

“You want your daughter to be coached by a Jody Patrick. Jody paved the way as a pioneer in the Title IX movement.”

When she got to high school, there wasn’t a girls’ basketball team so she tried out for the boys’ team. After making the first cut, she learned that the school had decided to offer a girls’ team. “As a Catholic school, the administration wasn’t beholden to Title IX’s federal mandate,” Jody points out, “but they realized that offering a girls’ team was the right thing to do.” Jody had the choice to continue with the boys or go over to play with the girls. “In the end, I wanted to be with my friends, girls who also dreamed of playing the sport that they loved,” she recalls.

Following a stellar high school career, Jody entered the world of collegiate sports, scoring more than 2,000 points for the University of Rochester and setting 14 school records. She went on to coach with UMass/Amherst, Georgetown, and Cornell before landing at the helm of Flint Hill’s Girls’ Basketball program. After 21 years, she left that post as the winningest and longest-tenured girls’ varsity basketball coach in the school’s history, leading her players to five state tournament finals.

These days she supplements her role as the Director of Physical Education and Lower School PE teacher by coaching multiple

NOTHING BUT NET

To an individual for exhibiting selflessness, leadership, and a commitment to excellence. These words are etched onto a glass portion of the Jody Patrick Spirit Award trophy. This list of accomplishments proves she shows these qualities on and off the court.

Middle School teams, including the Middle School Girls’ Basketball team. Jody relishes the opportunity she has here at Flint Hill to connect with young athletes. “We have to prepare students how to be a member of a team,” she says. “They will be on a team for the rest of their lives — in family, in friendships, and in their career. It’s about teaching life lessons, not just about athletic pursuit.”

Though Title IX has suffered a misleading reputation for “taking money away from the boys,” as Jody puts it, she’s heartened that the country is bearing witness to the fruits of the law’s impact. She celebrates the movement’s pivot from advocating for equal representation and participation to demanding equal treatment and equal pay.

“To be honored with this spirit award 50 years after Title IX’s passage means so much to me and my family. I have been given a gift, but it needs to continue to grow,” Jody says. “Title IX is only as strong as its supporters; its tenets need to be passed forward to the next generation and beyond — Pass it forward, Huskies!”

• 2016 Driving Spirit Award recipient.

• Led five Habitat for Humanity trips with Flint Hill.

• Is a TV game analyst with the Patriot League’s American University women’s basketball program, broadcast by ESPN+, and has previously covered the WNBA’s Washington Mystics, Big East Conference, and Colonial Athletic Association with Comcast TV.

• Served as a school host with the U.S. State Department’s Global Sports Mentoring Program and conducted clinics at Flint Hill with women’s basketball teams from India, Russia, and Tajikistan.

• Served two rotations with USA Basketball at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs with an appointment to serve on the USA U16 / U17 National Team Selection Committee.

Left to right: Jody’s college days at the University of Rochester. Jody’s coaching days at Flint Hill. Jody pictured with student-athletes after receiving her award during the Women and Girls in Sports Day Luncheon.

SETTING THE STANDARD

“For countless Huskies, you’ve set the standard, knowingly or not, with your dedication and kindness. You are our hopes in action.”

–Head of School Patrick McHonett

Flint Hill’s Commencement ceremony took place on June 9 with a celebration of 129 graduates. Salutatorian Maddie Chang, who will attend Williams College, noted the resilience of her classmates: “We have stumbled and fallen, and I know more than a few of you have even physically broken some bones along the way, but we have gotten up, signed casts, and are here.”

As he prepares to go to Cornell University, Valedictorian Jimmy Li reflected with gratitude for the Flint Hill community: “All of us have been nurtured by the educators of this school who respect cultural differences, listen to our fears, and support us as friends and mentors.

20 Flint Hill School

Flint Hill is a place where every one of us can realize our true potential through hard work. And, at Flint Hill, even someone as introverted as me can find friends who see the best in us.” He also made a point of celebrating the “quiet strength” of individuals who may seldom speak and may be too modest to run for student leadership or sing on stage but are diligent, kind, have integrity, and work hard — qualities that Jimmy said are “what our society needs from us as we go out into the world.”

Commencement Speaker Dev Sethi ’02 gave the students four pieces of advice to consider: one, find

growth through discomfort; two, acknowledge that the journey is hard, but take time to celebrate; three, value your own perspective; four, preserve this [FH] community. “Setbacks are necessary for our growth,” he said, “and it’s important to acknowledge them and even celebrate the growth that comes out of them. Each of us sees the world differently. You see the world differently than me, than your parents, than even each other, and that is a strength. Bring your perspective to wherever you go after this and share it, because you’ve experienced things no one else has, and you see things no one else does.”

COMMENCING A NEW CHAPTER

Unfollowing the Narrative to Follow His Dreams

When invited to give the 2023 Flint Hill Commencement address, Dev Sethi ’02 was flattered to be asked to play such a significant role during such a momentous event. But he didn’t immediately accept. He thought it was important to first learn more about Flint Hill’s newly installed head of school, Patrick McHonett. “I’m going to be inextricably linked to him as the graduation speaker to culminate his first year,” Dev explains. He wanted to make sure their outlook and message for the graduates were aligned.

After meeting up in the fall, both Patrick and Dev knew the commencement collaboration was a go. Patrick found Dev to be “deeply considerate and astute,” noting how thoughtful it was of him to request the meeting in the first place. He was completely on board with Dev’s plan to focus his speech on the positive side of life’s obstacles, predicting it would be a powerful message for the entire community.

Dev started at Flint Hill in the 6th grade in what we now know as the Hazel Lower School — back when it housed the entire student body. Having all the students under the same roof bolstered the sense of community, according to Dev. “Older students felt a consistent obligation to set a good example for the younger students,” and he recalls that everyone rose to that challenge. In 12th grade, Dev and his classmates relocated to the newly constructed Upper School on Jermantown Road. Their first day of class was September 10, 2001, the day before 9/11.

“I remember being pulled out of class to be told about it,” Dev says. He was the SCA president, and the administration expected him to help lead his peers through what was sure to be a heartrending day, especially considering some students had parents who worked at the Pentagon. Dev recounts that day as the start of a surreal experience. He felt the responsibility to stand up for and support fellow brown students who, almost immediately, became the target of heightened racism. “It was very open and explicit,” Dev says. “I would get yelled at just walking down the street.” The leadership qualities he displayed during that time surprised him. For most of his time at Flint Hill, Dev kept a rather low profile. But flip through the pages of his senior yearbook and you’ll see that Dev served not only as the SCA president, but also as the editorin-chief of The View and captain of both the baseball and basketball teams. “In a million years, I would never have considered doing any of that,” Dev recalls. Those were all roles and honors he considered more befitting his twin brother, Raj. “He was always the more popular, more gregarious one,” he says.

Dev and Raj were interminably known at Flint Hill as two parts of a duo, each conforming to their own narrative: Raj, the outgoing one; Dev, the reserved one.

But just a few days into junior year, circumstances led to Raj’s unexpected departure from Flint Hill. It was a jarring turn of events for the Sethi family and impossible for Dev to imagine high school without his brother by his side.

When his parents asked whether he would want to leave as well, Dev strongly considered it. That’s when Maddie Krug, an English teacher at Flint Hill and Dev’s student council advisor, pulled him aside to offer what turned out to be life-changing advice.

“He was clearly upset, so conflicted about what to do,” Maddie recalls. Dev’s existence at school had always been tied to being the quieter Sethi twin. The spotlight was always on his brother and never on him. As Maddie recounts the story, “It was clear this was a born leader who had been living quietly up to that point next to his more vocal brother.” She encouraged him to reposition his perspective on being on his own.

“This may help you flourish,” she told him.

After much deliberation, Dev decided to stay at Flint Hill and spent his final two years at the school as one of one. He found that just outside his brother’s shadow was the space to step into his own identity as an adept leader, influential changemaker, and impressive representative of the Class of 2002.

The whole experience illuminated new possibilities for Dev. Even getting into Notre Dame, a top 20 school, was something he previously considered out of reach. He’d always dreamed about joining the Fighting Irish but never believed in his ability to make it happen. It would take him getting his act together academically, and with his newfound confidence and motivation, he did just that. Dev counts the decision to remain at Flint Hill and lean into an identity of distinction among the most pivotal decisions of his life.

Journeys are full of hiccups and challenges. It doesn’t all happen the way we have it mapped out in our mind.

On June 9, 21 years after introducing his own graduation speaker in his capacity as SCA president, Dev was the one being introduced and tasked with delivering that allimportant commencement address. His message to the Class of 2023 was simple and poignant: there is growth in discomfort. That’s a truth that has come up for him time and time again.

He asked the students to reflect on times they’d suffered a setback during their upper school years. “If you ever failed a test, been suspended, not gotten into a university, been dumped by someone, or missed the game-winning shot,” he said, “raise your hand.” The fact that almost everyone’s hand went up illustrated his point that life’s disruptions don’t have to disrupt progress.

Unexpectedly leaving Flint Hill was a definite disruption for Dev’s brother, but Raj went on to college at VCU and followed his passion to become an in-demand UX (user experience) designer. “Journeys are full of hiccups and challenges,” Dev says. “Life doesn’t always happen the way we have it mapped out in our mind.”

As for Dev, he jumped headfirst into the tech industry after graduating from Notre Dame, landing positions with YouTube, Google, and most recently with Meta, where he served as Director of Sports Partnerships. Finding a fulfilling career that married his passion for sports with his expertise in social media was a dream come true. But just two weeks before giving the commencement address, Dev was part of the 21,000-person layoffs at Meta. It was another unexpected challenge and one he wanted to share with the Class of 2023.

“I’m literally living in discomfort right now. It hurts,” he told them. “I have two choices. Let that discomfort swallow me up and consume me, or embrace it and reflect, learn, and grow out of this experience.” He assured them there’s always value in doing the latter.

Reflecting on Dev’s address to the students, Head of School Patrick McHonett says he will be forever grateful to remember him as his first graduation speaker, applauding the grace, vulnerability, and authenticity Dev showed. “He’s a shining example of what we hope for all Huskies.”

This October, Dev will be honored at the 40 Under 40 Awards in Las Vegas as one of Sports Business Journal’s

young talents to watch. Though the details of what’s next for Dev have yet to be revealed, we know his perseverance and positivity will propel him on his path and he’ll continue realizing his dreams. Thanks to his example, the newest class of Flint Hill graduates will feel inspired to do the same as they eagerly commence their new chapter.

Dev pictured with Maddie Krug, former Flint Hill English teacher.

Members of the Class of 2023 listen attentively during Dev’s Commencement address.

PARTING WORDS

Farewell Sentiments from the Class of 2023

What class, teacher, or experience here at Flint Hill helped inspire you to take your next path?

Anderson’s APUSH and Ms. Helmers’s AP Gov classes have inspired me to pursue the humanities — especially government, politics, and law.

Coach Reed. Not only is he a great coach, he is a great person all around. I can go talk to him about anything and everything.

– Khaleel Abdullah ’23

Ms.

– Jordan Rupli ’23

I feel extremely supported and inspired by Nurse Hammond and Nurse Hart, and by Ms. Ashley and Mr. Ross from the trainer’s room. Seeing them helping others inspired me to study physical therapy so I can also become a health professional and improve the lives of other people.

Sarah Pramstaller has not only formed me into the confident, ambitious, and talented person I am today, also she has pushed me to be my best self at every point. She has turned my love for music and performance into my passion. I owe so much to her.

I will major in dance in college, which I feel would not have been possible without Ms. Harper. She gave me opportunities in class that would get me ahead of my classmates in college and gave me general advice as a former dance major. Her guidance will take me far!

– Grace Reidenbaugh ’23

– Yiru Zhou ’23

– Brigit Cook ’23

As you close this chapter at Flint Hill, what do you express gratitude for?

I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the many opportunities and experiences that have shaped me into the person I am today, especially my loving and supportive family who instilled in me the values of kindness, resilience, and human decency. I’m also grateful for my teachers and mentors who have challenged me throughout the course of high school to think critically and pursue my passions.

– Mariya Dempsey ’23

I feel a great sense of gratitude for the Ambassador program, my not-so-happy experiences at the school, and for the people who have showed me tremendous support: Nurse Hammond, Nurse Hart, Ms. Lewis, Ms. Barnes, Ms. Burton, Mr. McHonett, and Mr. Shepherd. I’m very grateful for these individuals as they have made my high school experience special and have allowed me to grow in many ways.

– Kori Parker ’23

I feel gratitude for all my coaches who helped me along my brief journey here at Flint Hill. I’m thankful to have met them and learned from them not just about the game of basketball but about the game of life!

– Gibraltar Coleman ’23

I am grateful for the friends I have made, they have supported me and allowed me to fully be myself. I am grateful for my teachers who have helped me in countless ways and built up my confidence. I am specifically thankful for my time in art over the past four years; it has helped to shape my high school experience in the best way.

– Nina Dooley ’23

I feel immense gratitude toward my parents for their everlasting encouragement and my teachers for their guidance in helping me discover the path I wish to pursue in college. I am also incredibly grateful for my friends and the sense of community that has surrounded my experience at Flint Hill.

– Dyuthi Harikar ’23

Looking into the future, what impact will you and your classmates make on this world?

I feel that in the future, the Class of 2023 will make a significant impact on this world. We have faced unimaginable things together, such as the pandemic and the longlasting effects of it. We have learned from experiences like these, which have helped shape our perspectives and goals for the future.

– Alena Patel ’23

Looking into the future, the impact that my graduating Class of 2023 will make on the world is immeasurable in that each of my classmates possesses unique talents, skills, and perspectives that can be utilized to bring positive change to their communities and beyond. Whether through entrepreneurship, scientific research, public service, or a simple act of kindness, the potential for my classmates along with myself to make a lasting impact is immense. As for myself, specifically, I have been brought up by an incredibly benevolent family whose wisdom has shaped a strong foundation of essential values that will guide me. The natural leadership and altruistic qualities I have developed by means of looking up to my parents have forged my ability to bring people together while enabling me to inspire others to take action toward creating a better world.

– Mariella Silvia ’23

We should have stopped climate change by now. I hope my generation can do that and better the world.

– Ethan Grossman ’23

Reunion 2023

We were excited to welcome alumni back for a fun-filled Reunion Weekend where over 80 Falcons and Huskies joined us to revitalize friendships, share memories and laughs, indulge in nostalgia, and celebrate their connection to Flint Hill.

SAVE THE DATE

Classes ending in 4s and 9s, your reunion is on April 26-27, 2024. We can’t wait to see you then!

Left to right: Noel Taterway ’13, Jared Busby ’13, Brandon Robinson, Jessica Rush Robinson ’13 at the Reunion Reception.

30 Flint Hill School

FALCON RECEPTION

It was a beautiful evening at Miller House for Falcons to visit with classmates and listen to the music of A Touch of Grey, featuring brothers Eliot Brenner ’67 and Kyd Brenner H’69.

Pam Crowson Dodds ’68, Becky McElvey Hinely ’68, Cathy Colquhoun Todd ’68, Fair Kirk Pickel ’68, Suzie Hiser Latimer ’68, Christa Vanderhoef Arensberg ’68, Ann Cole Paciulli ’69.

Tom Critchfield ’73, Art Dodds, Richard Kirsch ’73, Rob Bates ’74, Guest, Dick Alfers ’68, Bob Swan ’62, Judi Thompson Gore ’67, Greg Wells ’67, Chip Paciulli ’68, Geoff Tenny ’73, Debby Alger Knudson ’68, Kyd Brenner H’69, Eliot Brenner ’67, Jim Runk ’73.

Rob Bates ’74 brought some Flint Hill Prep memorabilia to donate to the school Archives. He is donating a copy of the June 1974 Tale Feathers, a Flint Hill Prep patch, and silver buttons from his

blazer.

Left to right: Richard Kirsch ’73, Tom Critchfield ’73, Jim Runk ’73, Geoff Tenny ’73.

Left to right: Patrick McHonett, Rob Bates ’74, Maria Taylor.

Left to right: Suzie Hiser Latimer ’68, Becky McElvey Hinely ’68, Christa Vanderhoef Arensberg ’68, Debby Alger Knudson ’68.

Front row, left to right:

Back row, left to right:

CLASS OF 2013 TIME CAPSULE OPENING

The Class of 2013 continued the tradition of opening their time capsule. There were so many memories, surprises, and memorabilia that were revealed 10 years after their graduation.

Left to right: Jillian Goulding ’13, Ansley Gibson ’13, Hannah Donegan ’13, Sara Morse ’13.

Left to right: Courtney Chaplin Providence ’13, Angelica Young ’13, Stephanie Altreuter ’13, Lauren Smith Gutić ’13, Adam Cleland ’13, Hooman Azad ’13, Kendall Gibson ’13, Jessica Rush Robinson ’13, Ansley Gibson ’13, Nawal Chaudry ’13, Jillian Goulding ’13, Hannah Donegan ’13, Jonah Chang ’13, Sara Morse ’13.

Left to right: Rico Reed, Jerrod Reed ’13.

Left to right: Jonah Chang ’13, Nawal Chaudry ’13, Adam Cleland ’13, Hooman Azad ’13.

REUNION BRUNCH

The Reunion Brunch in the Peterson Middle School was a wonderful opportunity for alumni to catch up with classmates and former teachers.

Left to right: Hooman Azad ’13, Jonah Chang ’13, Howard Chang.

Left to right: Chip Paciulli ’68, Cathy Colquhoun Todd ’68, Ann Cole Paciulli ’69, and Dick Alfers ’68 look through their yearbook to reminisce during the Reunion Brunch.

Left to right: Emily Powers Yassine, Cameron Yassine ’08, Doug Ruff, Taylor Swart Ruff ’08, Jeff Zeberlein ’08, Tori Zeberlein, Darren Lanning, Hena Naghmi ’08.

ALUMNI VARSITY ATHLETE RECOGNITION

Alumni varsity athletes who played a spring sport were recognized during halftime of the Boys’ Varsity Lacrosse game. Seventeen alumni athletes were cheered on to center field by parents, alumni, and faculty. The Boys’ Lacrosse team had an exciting 15-7 win over Seton School!

REUNION RECEPTION

The Reunion events capped off with an all-alumni reception with the Faculty Host Committee at TRIO Grill. This was a treasured opportunity for local alumni to see all of the reunion alumni while they’re in town!

Left to right: Aidan Wheeler ’18, Matthew Eye ’18, James Villemarette ’18, Connor Cuevo H’18.

Left to right, front row: Jonah Chang ’13, Hooman Azad ’13, Andrew Gregg ’03, Cameron Yassine ’08, Ben Jardot ’08, Ben Keaton ’08, Jason Kessler ’03.

Left to right, back row: Lauren Smith Gutić ’13, Stephanie Altreuter ’13, Courtney Chaplin Providence ’13, Garnett Soles ’93, Kendall Gibson ’13, Ansley Gibson ’13, Sara Morse ’13, Jillian Goulding ’13, Hannah Donegan ’13, Jerrod Reed ’13, Adam Rice, Dewayne Robinson, Maria Taylor, Rico Reed.

Left to right: DeeDee Rhinehart McClave ’73 and her husband, Christopher McClave.

Left to right: Andrew Gregg ’03, Jason Kessler ’03, Fred Atwood.

Left to right: Jessica Rush Robinson ’13, Amy Clement, Ellen Turner ’01.

Left to right: Davis Luethke ’15, Aron Petros ’15, Rico Reed.

CLASS DINNERS

After the Reunion Reception, reunion classes went to various locations near TRIO Grill for their class dinners.

1973

1993

2013

2018

2003

Left to right: Geoff Tenny ’73, Tom Critchfield ’73, Claudia Cruise ’73, Jim Runk ’73, DeeDee Rhinehart ’73, McClave ’73, Christopher McClave, Judy Shoemaker ’73.

1968

Front to back: Christa Vanderhoef Arensberg ’68, Dick Alfers ’68, Karen Alfers, Skip Todd, Cathy Colquhoun Todd ’68.

1968 (CONT.)

Front to back: Suzie Hiser Latimer ’68, Ann Cole Paciulli ’69, Debby Alger Knudson ’68, Pam Crowson Dodds ’68, Art Dodds (not pictured because he was taking the picture: Chip Paciulli ’68).

Left to right: Kirby Meade (former faculty), Suzie Grand Prè ’03, Huma Riyaz ’03, Tamdan Vo ’03, Marie Purkert Schneider ’03, Nick Gonzalez ’03, Victoria Evans Trammel ’03, Alex Fletcher ’03, Weston Nichols ’03, Andrew Doll ’03, Adrienne Zelnick Schwartz ’03, Jason Kessler ’03, Andrew Gregg ’03, Howard Waxman (former faculty), Sarah Paciulli (blocked by Howard!), Anna Pollock ’03.

Left to right, front row: Jason Burnett ’93, Elizabeth Glover ’93. Left to right, back row: Amy Harris Gwilliam ’93, Garnett Soles ’93, Sean Atienza ’93.

Left to right: Lauren Smith Gutić ’13, Jack Gutić, Jai Patel ’13, Brandon Robinson, Jessica Rush Robinson ’13, James Lloyd, Angelica Young ’13, Stephanie Altreuter ’13.

Left to right: Connor Cuevo H’18, Matthew Eye ’18. Sabra McBride ’18, Grace Tiedge ’18, Caroline Britt ’18, James Villemarette ’18.

CLASS NOTES

WANT IN?

To be included in Alumni Class Notes, email the Alumni Office at alumni@flinthill.org with news of a union, birth of a child, adoption, professional developments, travels, or anything you’d like to share with your classmates. If you would like to include a photo with your submission, please note that digital photographs must be high-resolution JPEG images (1MB+) to appear in print.

Flint Hill Magazine editorial staff reserves the right to edit submissions for clarity and length.

Ankit Sethi ’08 married Bailey White in April 2023. See p. 39

BECOME AN AMBASSADOR

We’re looking for Alumni Ambassadors to gather Class Notes from your fellow alumni! This exciting addition to our Alumni Program will help you stay connected to classmates and us stay connected to you!

CLASS OF 1967

Alumni Ambassadors: Eliot Brenner, eliotb@cox.net; Greg Wells, gregwells@cfl.rr.com

Eliot Brenner ’67 and his band Touch of Grey played at April’s Falcon Reception, joined by his brother, Kyd Brenner H’69, subbing for an ailing band guitarist. (below)

CLASS OF 1969

Become an Alumni Ambassador for your class year. Send in your news and updates for the next issue: alumni@flinthill.org

CLASS OF 1970

Become an Alumni Ambassador for your class year: alumni@flinthill.org

CLASS OF 1968

Alumni Ambassador: Fair Kirk Pickel, fpickel64@gmail.com

Chip Paciulli ’68 and Ann Cole Paciulli ’69 are grandparents! Their daughter, Sarah Paciulli ’03, and her husband, Marcus Tenney, welcomed Juliana Bell Tenney in August 2022. Juliana is named after two Flint Hill alums, Aunt Juliana Paciulli ’98 and Great Aunt Juliana Cole ’71.

The Class of 1968 had a wonderful time at their 55th Reunion in April! They spent a lot of time reminiscing, sharing stories, and looking at pictures from their Falcon years. (below)

Cheryl Fitzgerald ’70 writes, “Still going to rock concerts, cruising in my ’69 XK-E or ’57 Chevy, hiking with my lab Duke, and sharing love & life with my wonderful man, John. Keeping in touch and having visits from Claire Dudley ’70, Tex Johnson ’70, Rob “Bird” Humphrey ’70, Sarah Harrell Morgan ’70, Martha Shepardson Killam ’70, Sandy Hooper ’70, John Mangler ’70, and lots of friends. Also still supporting dog and horse rescues and shelters. Life is great!” (above)

CLASS OF 1971

Become an Alumni Ambassador for your class year. Send in your news and updates for the next issue: alumni@flinthill.org

CLASS OF 1972

Alumni Ambassador: Ace Ernst, acemd@verizon.net

Ilona Toth Conolly H’72 writes, “After leaving Flint Hill in the 6th grade, I attended public school before attending the University of Virginia. Being in the 2nd class of women attending the school was not easy by any means! Planned to go to medical school, but while working at UVA hospital, I decided that being woken up at all hours of the night was not for me and opted for the opposite end of the spectrum — American government and foreign affairs. Instead of going to law school, I launched into a career in real estate finance that took me to a title company

(conducting real estate closings), an S&L that was placed in receivership (construction loan management), the Maryland Deposit Insurance Fund Corporation and Resolution Trust Corporation performing asset management activities and managing copious numbers of foreclosures, bankruptcies and director and officer liability cases. Eventually landed in the multifamily division of Freddie Mac where I spent 18 years in real estate asset management and proprietary systems development. Having spent my entire career in real estate, and finance, but not wanting to continue working full-time, I’ve decided to launch myself into real estate sales. The last chapter has yet to be written…”

Michael Branson ’72 writes, “Currently I am retired after working for Tandem, Compaq, HP, and IBM. I have a wonderful wife and family, four children, and seven grandchildren.” (below)

CLASS OF 1993

Alumni Ambassador: Garnett Soles, garnett.soles@gmail.com

Ryan Bartholomew ’93 writes, “I just moved to Slovakia to rescue and rehabilitate injured hedgehogs using sound therapy.” (left)

CLASSES OF 1994 – 2002

1995 Alumni Ambassador: Zack Krug, zkrug@flinthill.org

2000 Alumni Ambassador: Julie DiBella, julie.dibella@gmail.com

Become an Alumni Ambassador for your class year. Send in your news and updates for the next issue: alumni@flinthill.org

CLASS OF 2003

Alumni Ambassador: Suzie Grand Pré, SGPre@yahoo.com

Dave Kuhlman ’72 writes, “I’m retired 35 years from FedEx Express. I spent 9 years on the road and 26 in management. I live on the west coast with my lovely wife, Lisa Both, of 31 years and our kids are out of the house. Lisa is an accomplished professional photographer and real estate broker. I miss everyone from my Flint Hill years.”

CLASSES OF 1973 – 1992

1976 Alumni Ambassadors: Vince Salazar, vincesalazar@comcast.net; David Schoen, schoenlawfirm@gmail.com

1981 Alumni Ambassador: Chuck Papas, ike_papas@hotmail.com

1985 Alumni Ambassador: Sharon Weinstein Goldberg ’85, sgoldberg@sevenhills.org

1991 Alumni Ambassador: Blair Gormley, b_gormley@yahoo.com

Become an Alumni Ambassador for your class year. Send in your news and updates for the next issue: alumni@flinthill.org

William Fleeson ’03 recently shared that following several years working in journalism and communications, he is currently a consultant at the World Bank. His position has allowed him to work remotely and travel, which enabled a two-month stint of volunteering with Ukrainian refugees in Moldova (fall 2022). He spent the first half of 2023 working and conducting freelance reporting from Kyiv, Ukraine. His work was nominated, most recently, for The Best American Essays anthology. Will’s journalism, travel writing, and other nonfiction are available at www.willfleeson.com.

Emily Taylor Wavrin ’03 and Jacob Wavrin ’03 announced the arrival of baby Caleb Michael Wavrin, born in December 2022. Emily also opened her own medical spa, Prim Aesthetics (prim-aesthetics.com), in Gainesville, VA.

CLASSES OF 2004 – 2005

2005 Alumni Ambassador: Scott Schillereff, scott.m.schillereff@gmail.com

Become an Alumni Ambassador for your class year. Send in your news and updates for the next issue: alumni@flinthill.org.

CLASS OF 2006

Become an Alumni Ambassador for your class year: alumni@flinthill.org

Michael Freedman ’06 and his sister, Katie Freedman ’10, celebrated her 30th birthday in Portugal! Even though they live on opposite sides of the country, with Michael in Seattle and Katie in DC, they still find time for family reunions. Also, Michael recently left Amazon after six years to join a startup in Seattle called Karat, which pioneered the Interviewing Cloud, a human+tech solution for conducting interviews on behalf of companies worldwide, 24/7. As a Principal Product Manager, Michael is launching additional products to unlock opportunities for both hiring companies and candidates by making interviews fair, predictive, and enjoyable.

CLASS OF 2007

Become an Alumni Ambassador for your class year. Send in your news and updates for the next issue: alumni@flinthill.org

CLASS OF 2008

Become an Alumni Ambassador for your class year: alumni@flinthill.org

Ankit Sethi ’08 married Bailey White in April 2023! Alumni in attendance included (pictured left to right) Arjun Gupta ’08, Rolfe Garcia ’08, Turja Chakrabarti ’08, Ankit Sethi ’08, Federico Cohen Freue ’08, Stephanie Phillips ’08, and Manisha Kumar ’09 (below and on p. 36)

CLASS OF 2009

Alumni Ambassador: Robert Spencer, robertmspencer13@gmail.com

Rachel Mahoney ’09 and her husband, Jeffrey Mondella, had a son, Christian Alfred Mondella, born in September of 2022. (below)

Tori Roisman Evans ’09 and her husband, Colin, had a baby girl named Harper Brynn Evans in April. Colin and Tori are very excited to welcome her into their family! (below)

CLASS OF 2010

2010 Alumni Ambassador: Natasha Chadha, nc2600@tc.columbia.edu

Katharine Mooney Beech ’10 writes, “In June of 2022, Kay Mooney Beech ’10 married Patrick Beech in Ireland. After COVID postponed their nuptials, the couple was finally able to tie the knot and have their fairytale wedding on their 5th anniversary at Dromoland Castle. Kay was joined by Class of 2010 alums Olivia Collins Johnson ’10, Sarah Compton ’10, and Kathleen Melvin ’10.” (above)

CLASS OF 2011

2011 Alumni Ambassador: Woojin Kim, woojin.kim.13@gmail.com

Lauren Porter ’11 writes, “Upon graduating from Flint Hill in 2011, Lauren attended Syracuse University from where she graduated in 2015 with a bachelor of arts degree in English and Textual Studies. Post college, she moved to New York City, rising from intern to digital assistant editor covering love and lifestyle content at ESSENCE, a premiere lifestyle, fashion, and beauty magazine for Black women. Since the fall of 2018, she has worked at Bleacher Report, currently as a Senior Creative Strategist in the company’s sports marketing division. In 2021, she was elected for the inaugural Hashtag Sports Creators of Color cohort by The Engagement Academy of Sports x Entertainment. Just this fall, she was selected as a Forbes 30 Under 30 2023 honoree in the coveted sports category.” (left)

Elias Chajet ’11 writes, “After six years of rabbinical school at Hebrew Union College - Jewish Institute of Religion’s Los Angeles campus, I was ordained as a Rabbi in May 2023. During school, I was commissioned as US Navy Chaplain

Candidate Program Officer, CCPO, and was recently selected to serve as an active duty Navy Chaplain. At the end of the summer, my wife Michelle and I will move to the Chicago area where I will serve on the Chaplain team at Recruit Training Command Great Lakes, the Navy’s boot camp.” (above)

CLASSES OF 2012 – 2013

Become an Alumni Ambassador for your class year. Send in your news and updates for the next issue: alumni@flinthill.org.

CLASS OF 2014

2014 Alumni Ambassadors: Reagan Fox, reagan@piersonrealestate.com; Ally Lucas, Alucas6@vt.edu; Philip Wellde, pcwellde7@gmail.com

Grace Cleland ’14 is starting her second year at the Wharton School in Philadelphia and will graduate with her MBA in 2024. She likes living in Philadelphia, where her brother and fellow FH alum Adam Cleland ’13 also currently lives with his wife.

Katie Graves ’14 writes, “I graduated in 2018 from High Point University with a degree in Strategic Communications with a concentration in crisis management and PR. I now work as a luxury travel advisor for one of the top producing

agencies in the country which was recently named as a Forbes Travel Guide Endorsed Travel Agency. My new career has led me to places such as Bermuda and the Galapagos Islands, and I will be exploring Thailand later this year with the Thailand Tourism Board. I am also an avid hockey fan and season ticket holder with the Carolina Hurricanes, and, of course, still a proud Husky and Flint Hill alum.” (below)

CLASS OF 2015

Become an Alumni Ambassador for your class year. Send in your news and updates for the next issue: alumni@flinthill.org

CLASS OF 2016

Alumni Ambassador: Kristen Springer, kristennspringer@gmail.com

Alumni from several years gathered on Christmas Eve.

CLASSES OF 2017 – 2018

2018 Alumni Ambassador: Aidan Wheeler, Aidan.wheeler.18@cnu.edu

Become an Alumni Ambassador for your class year. Send in your news and updates for the next issue: alumni@flinthill.org

CLASS OF 2019

Become an Alumni Ambassador for your class year: alumni@flinthill.org

Mardy Kramer ’19 writes, “I’m happy to announce that I’ve graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of South Carolina with a B.A. in Mass Communications with a minor in Hospitality, Restaurant, and Tourism Management! I can’t believe how many things I’ve been able to experience because

of UofSC. I’m so grateful for all of my friends and mentors in my undergrad career. I’m so excited to continue my educational journey at the University of Glasgow. I’m very proud to join the 2023 cohort for the Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters for Tourism Development and Culture! Two years, three countries, and four schools! I’ll start in the fall at University of Glasgow’s Dumfries campus and continue in the spring at the University of Malta. I hope to join the University Institute of Lisbon to further my studies in wine business and tourism.”

CLASS OF 2020

Become an Alumni Ambassador for your class year: alumni@flinthill.org

Paul Karch ’20 signed his professional soccer contract to play in the Czech Republic on a team in the first division. The Czech league first division winners can qualify for the Champions League and Europa.

CLASS OF 2021 – 2022

2022 Alumni Ambassador: Hudson Eaton, hudseaton@gmail.com

Become an Alumni Ambassador for your class year. Send in your news and updates for the next issue: alumni@flinthill.org

CONNECT WITH FLINT HILL ALUMNI ON LINKEDIN AND

INSTAGRAM TODAY!

• Remember to add Flint Hill to your LinkedIn profile and join the Flint Hill School Alumni Group.

• Stay in the loop and follow @flinthillalumni on Instagram.

Front row: Nick Fouty ’16; Second row: Theo Jenkins ’21, Nina Jenkins ’18, Lindsey Fouty ’19; Third row: Mert Guney ’22, Grant Jenkins ’16, Ben Cross ’16, Yigit Guney ’16, Michael Wang ’16.

LIFECYCLES

MARRIAGES

Ankit Sethi ’08 and Bailey White in April 2023

Reagan Fox ’14 and Travis Johnson in February 2023

Kay Mooney Beech ’10 and Patrick Beech in June 2022

BIRTHS/ADOPTIONS

Sarah Paciulli ’03 and Marcus Tenney: Juliana, born August 2022

Angela Rogers ’08 and Shevawn Christian: Logan

Sara Schlegel ’08 and Roy Schoenberg: Benjamin, born February 2023

Emily Taylor Wavrin ’03 and Jacob Wavrin ’03: Caleb, born December 2022

Rachel Mahoney ’09 and Jeffrey Mondella: Christian, born September 2022

Tori Roisman Evans ’09 and Colin Evans: Harper, born April 2023

IN MEMORIAM

Ms. Kara M. Amey H’11

June 2022

Mr. Melvin Clark

December 10, 2022

Former Faculty

Mr. Mark J. Emery

April 3, 2023

Parent of Patrick Emery ’01 and Kara Emery Brooks ’04

Ms. Ingrid H. Hillhouse

March 20, 2023

Former Faculty

Mrs. Dianne C. Denlinger

Oehms H’67

January 1, 2023

Mrs. Hillary E. Dick Press ’89

November 15, 2022

Mr. Robert R. Rucks Sr.

May 27, 2023

Parent of Robert Rucks ’12, Scott Rucks H’14, and Paige Rucks ’16

Mr. Richard J. Schrader

March 28, 2023

Parent of Gabby Schrader ’01

Dr. H. Sharon Sethi

July 5, 2023

Parent of Dev Sethi ’02 and Raj Sethi H’02

Mr. Mark Trusheim H’70

May 2021

Mr. John J. Vonesh

April 12, 2022

Parent of Sarah Vonesh ’07 and Nick Vonesh ’09

With Gratitude

KayAnn, your leadership of the Parents’ Association (PA) and innovation to support parent engagement has left an invigorating impact. We are grateful for your service to Flint Hill and all the contributions you’ve made. By taking a meaningful risk and blazing a new trail, you have certainly energized our community!

This year’s Parents’ Association continued to remind us of the importance of bringing our community together. From sorting uniforms to serving thousands of snacks at the Den and Igloo, and finding new ways to celebrate our faculty and staff, PA volunteers bolstered our Husky spirit and made memories along the way. In these moments and countless others, we strengthened relationships, built new friendships with families across divisions, and felt a greater connection to our School.

Thank you, parents, for your thoughtfulness and partnership!

KayAnn and Brian Schoeneman P’28 got the party started right away at Night on the Hill.

President KayAnn Schoeneman P’28 and the 2022-2023 Parents’ Association!

SAVE THE DATE

Friday, September 29 – Saturday, September 30