GEORGIAN
Vol. 87
No. 02
pu bl i c at i on of ge orge scho o l, ne w tow n, pennsy lvania
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perspe c t i v e s
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a n ew lo o k at math
g e o r g e s c h o o l c o n n e ct
alu m n i we e ke n d
2015
Cultivating Leaders
Advanced Classes for Incoming Freshmen
New Mobile App Puts Alumni Network at Your Fingertips
Come Back to Campus May 8-10, 2015
INSIDE
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
JIM INVERSO
Vol. 87 | No. 02 | APRIL 2015
PHOTOS: Inside Front Cover: The George School Equestrian Program formed an Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) team. Here, Morgan Kaplan ’16 and Flintstone navigated their first jump in the High-Schooling Hunters. Front Cover: AP Studio Art student Hanna Lee ’15 received a Scholastic Gold Key Art Award for her portfolio of eight mixed-media pieces, including Transcending Time and Space which is featured on our cover.
01 PERSPECTIVES Cultivating Leaders 02 A Champion for Women’s Rights 05 Everyday Leaders are Changing the World 08 Speaking Truth to Power 09 Leadership and Adaptability 12 eQuiz Highlights
16 FEATURES
30 CAMPUS NEWS & NOTES
16 George School Launches Metabolic Testing Program
30 ALUMNI TELL US
18 A New Look at Math 20 George School Connect: New Mobile App Puts Alumni Network at Your Fingertips 22 Alumni Weekend • Alumni Award Recipient Mark K. Updegrove ’80 • Schedule of Events
49 IN MEMORIAM
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HEAD OF SCHOOL NANCY STARMER
BRUCE WELLER
announced in February 2015 that she will retire at the conclusion of the 2015-2016 academic year.
Perspectives EDITED BY LAURA NOEL
Cultivating Leaders Friends, This edition of “Perspectives” focuses on leadership, a topic that is on many of our minds as the school begins the process of selecting its next head of school. Leadership, as we all know, is not new to us here at George School. We learned from our 2013 survey of young alumni that leadership skills are one of the things they are most grateful for gaining from George School. Conversations about leadership are happening all over the world—and twenty-first century leaders in all fields are quickly learning that a knowledge of the qualities needed to be an effective leader and wisdom of leaders past and present are more important than ever. In this section you will hear from three young women—Caitlin Fair ’06, Noorjahan Akbar ’10, and Hanna Lee ’15—as they reflect on what they have learned about leadership through service to others. You will also read about Danielle Walker Palmour ’82 who is in a unique position of
supporting financial literacy programs as a means for social good. I think you will find these interviews especially insightful. My own article for this edition of “Perspectives” discusses the demands that rapid and disruptive change have placed on educational leaders, the effective ways to respond, and how we are putting this knowledge to use here at George School. Finally, our eQuiz offers wisdom from a variety of graduates on the qualities that have sustained them in leadership roles. I hope you enjoy learning about the ways our alumni and current student leaders have found to let their lives speak.
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NOORJAHAN AKBAR ’10 co-founded Young Women for Change— a non-profit women’s advocacy organization that strives to improve life for Afghan women.
Perspectives
A Champion for Women’s Rights BY KAREN DOSS BOWMAN
Noorjahan Akbar ’10 was a tenth grader living in Kabul, Afghanistan, when a classmate got married and left school. Struck by the tragedy of her friend’s unfulfilled potential, Noorjahan felt affirmation in her decision to dedicate her life to women’s rights— in Afghanistan and across the globe. When Noorjahan co-founded Young Women for Change (YWC)—a non-profit women’s advocacy organization that strives to improve life for Afghan women through social, political, and economic empowerment and improved access to education—in 2011, she had a list of problems she wanted to address. As she began talking to women in her country and listening to their concerns, she found that the everyday problem of sexual harassment was far more prevalent and urgent than she had originally thought. “Everyone I know, including my mother, has told me stories of being harassed in Afghanistan— anything from rude comments on appearance to groping and pushing,” Noorjahan says. “This harassment prevents women from working and from going to school. It makes it hard for women to concentrate, it drains them of energy, and it makes it hard to build relationships.”
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Noorjahan believes that listening is a key element of leadership and an important skill to help people overcome challenges. Though child marriage and forced unions are significant problems in Afghanistan, Noorjahan felt that addressing street harassment was more urgent and that it was an issue she could do something about. “I think a big part of leadership is listening to what people need and doing activities and creating programs based on people’s needs,” says Noorjahan, a 2014 graduate of Dickinson College. “This is incredibly important. I think many development projects fail because they are not based on hearing what people have to say about certain issues. I wanted to raise awareness about women’s issues and help empower women by confronting the problems that were overwhelming them.” Noorjahan became concerned with women’s rights and social justice at a young age. When she was twelve years old, she was part of a radio show in Afghanistan that focused on youth issues and education. During her 2008 summer break from George School, Noorjahan returned to Afghanistan and visited households in the two northern Afghan provinces of Badakhshan and Takhar to collect
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“ I think many development projects fail because they are not based on hearing what people have to say about certain issues. I wanted to raise awareness about women’s issues and help empower women by confronting the problems that were overwhelming them.”
traditional folk songs. She hopes that one day she will be able to publish and produce, Melodies of Badakhshan and Takhar, which documents about forty-five folk songs from Afghanistan—many created by women and never before recorded. “Many of these songs touched on issues that are prominent in women’s lives, but nobody’s listening—nobody’s giving them a platform,” Noorjahan says. “That led me to thinking about ways I could empower women to have a platform to speak up and use their voices to become their own agents.” The daughter of two teachers, Noorjahan believes that educating women is a vital piece of the movement for women’s equality. She started Sahar Gul Café, an all-women’s Internet café in Afghanistan, to provide a safe place where women could gather to gain computer skills, learn to speak English, and socialize. She also started a library for women in Afghanistan and has organized numerous protests against sexual harassment. Her efforts have not gone unnoticed. In 2012, Noorjahan was invited to participate on a panel of young women activists at the Women in the World Summit, hosted by Newsweek and The Daily
Beast. She was recognized in 2012 as a Woman of Distinction at the National Conference for College Women Student Leaders, named as one of Glamour magazine’s Top 10 College Women in 2013, and featured in Forbes magazine’s annual Women Changing the World STEM article in 2012. Though much of her work has been focused in her native country, Noorjahan believes women’s rights and equality is a concern across the globe— even in Western countries that seem to have made more progress. “One of the biggest hurdles in working for women’s rights is the prevalent idea that it’s not a worthy cause,” Noorjahan says. “I think this global dismissal of the women’s rights movement is a backlash against the progress women have made. In many ways, when we live in an unequal world that’s so rigid on our gender roles, we’re really not just stepping on women’s rights—we’re also making it hard for men to live their lives. When women are viewed as things, rather than as people, men can’t respect them or think of them as equals. And that deprives men and women of the chance to be real partners and friends.”
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“ I don’t think people who are trying to make change can just give up. I think the only way the world has been changed in the past is because of groups of people who have taken it upon themselves to do something.” Change doesn’t come immediately, and Noorjahan admits there are times when her work is discouraging. She gains inspiration from her family— especially the women in her family—as well as the women she’s met while doing her work in Afghanistan. She also credits her education at George School with reinforcing the value of community service that was instilled by her parents. “Every time I feel hopeless, I think about things I’ve heard from these women, and the work I’ve done for and with many of them,” says Noorjahan, who enjoyed close relationships with all of her teachers at George School. “I don’t think people who are trying to make change can just give up. I think the only way the world has been changed in the past is because of groups of people who have taken it upon themselves to do something. My class in African-American history at George School also taught me a lot about leadership because of the way many civil rights leaders took action and brought people together and really motivated and mobilized them.” Noorjahan advises those who are taking on new leadership roles to invest themselves in learning about whatever issue they’re working for and understanding its complexities. No one can fix everything, she says, so it’s important to listen to others, collaborate as part of a team, and make
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connections with people who have similar passions. Most important, she says: Take time for yourself. “I think people who have a sense of social responsibility can easily become emotionally drained,” Noorjahan says. “Some women I know are traumatized by their work. It’s important to take time for yourself and enjoy the little things in life. People are big and people can do a lot but the problems of the world are bigger. Take time to sit in a café, sip some tea, and talk with your friends.” Noorjahan, who will complete a master’s degree in journalism at American University this summer, started a national blog in Afghanistan to cover social justice issues, including women’s rights. After she graduates, she hopes to return to her home and become a reporter focused on human rights issues. “As a journalist, I hope I can present a more colorful and diverse story of women’s rights in Afghanistan than the media currently depicts,” Noorjahan says. “I do think the current narrative of women’s rights is one that is victimizing and one-dimensional. It doesn’t focus on what Afghan women are getting done—it only focuses on what they are lacking. I’ve met so many women who are doing so many amazing things that would knock your socks off and they are not getting any attention. I hope to change that.”
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CAITLIN FAIR ’06 participated in the National Moment of Silence March in New York, March 2014.
Perspectives
Everyday Leaders are Changing the World “ Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is
the little voice at the end of the day that says I’ll try again tomorrow.” – Mary Anne Radmacher
BY LAURA NOEL When the nation erupted in debate on August 10, 2014—just one day after the shooting of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri—Caitlin Fair ’06 awoke in a world she knew she wanted to work to change. “After the murder I was moved to start taking more intentional action to raise awareness about the lengths we still have to go in this country in terms of racial equality and the injustice that faces communities and people of color,” said Caitlin. “I traveled to Ferguson to participate in protests and meetings there and brought my experiences back with me with the intention of continuing that work in my own community.” Caitlin helped organize open mics that are centered upon discussing these issues through poetry and song. “We also created visual art including a Mike Brown mural in downtown Trenton, and
we are releasing a book titled Poetry in Protest which is a collection of poems by local artists that focuses on injustice, racism, police brutality, and protest,” she said. Caitlin’s leadership in Trenton has helped institute a Books and Breakfast program which provides breakfast to community members and free books to youth that attend the events. “I try to concentrate on the ground, within the community,” shared Caitlin. “We have reading circles and community fellowship and we seek to promote community relationships as well as critical thinking and self-directed learning in the youth that attend our events.” Caitlin and her fellow community members have organized teach-ins in Trenton to allow community members to gather to discuss civic engagement and black history.
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IN FERGUSON, MISSOURI Caitlin Fair ’06 joined protestors for racial equality and justice.
HANDS UP: NJCU was an organized teach-in in Trenton New Jersey Schools to allow community members to gather to discuss civic engagement.
Caitlin credits a number of teachers—in the literal and philosophical sense—with her growth as a leader and a community activist. It took her a long time to find her footing in this kind of work, she says, and she feels that young people in the United States are at a disadvantage because the history often taught in schools can be incomplete. She feels lucky to have had mentors like Nate McKee ’79 at George School who helped open her eyes. “Nate positioned himself as a surrogate father to me and always encouraged me to use my voice in positive ways,” she said. “He helped me to understand that fighting injustice was everyone’s work, and that the responsibility wasn’t limited to those who it most directly affected.” Caitlin’s parents also have had a tremendous influence on Caitlin. “They are both service and justice oriented individuals and they have always pushed both me and my brother to use our talents and energies to make positive and thoughtful change.” Recently, Caitlin has found herself surrounded by teachers who don’t teach their lessons in a classroom. “I have been blessed to become connected to some amazing people doing this work in Trenton including Lukata Mjumbe who I consider to be one of my greatest teachers,” said Caitlin. “Part of this work is making sure that you surround yourself with individuals who will continue to push you toward growth and development. I have learned such a tremendous amount from him in such a short time.”
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Caitlin’s work has not been without trial. She has faced physical and verbal attacks. “Criticism is one thing that you will never escape in this work. Everyone has an idea about what should be done, where, when, and how, and anytime you place yourself at the helm of something you leave yourself open to receiving it. “I am working on developing a thicker skin—it is necessary in order to prevent becoming paralyzed or disengaged due to the negativity you encounter.” Despite the challenges Caitlin continues her work and considers her heart to be her greatest strength as a leader. “I always say that the greatest gift God gave me was a limitless capacity for loving and I try to orient everything I do from a place of genuine love,” she said. “This doesn’t mean I don’t challenge or give constructive criticism, but I am very careful and intentional about the way I approach difficult interactions. I truly believe that only through love can real change be accomplished.” In another part of the world, Hanna Lee ’15 was also inspired to make a difference. In January 2014 she visited a shelter in Seoul Korea that was a home for elderly women who were forced by the Japanese military to become “comfort women,” or sex slaves during World War II. “My friends and I went to this shelter house called House of Sharing where ten comfort women lived and while we were there we visited the museum and saw what had happened to these women,” said Hanna. “Just seeing all the videos and
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HANNA LEE ’15 was inspired to make a difference after visiting a shelter in Seoul Korea that was a home for elderly comfort women. Her Scholastic Gold Key award winning art work, “Suppression,” was inspired by her visits.
researching what had happened, and learning that the Japanese government was trying to minimize what had happened to these women, we felt like we wanted to help raise awareness about what happened to these women.”
“ Just seeing all the videos and researching what had happened, and learning that the Japanese government was trying to minimize what had happened to these women, we felt like we wanted to help raise awareness about what happened to these women.”
translated to English—no small feat for a group of high school students. “My friends sold bracelets at their high school to help raise money for the translation and we got donations for the rest,” said Hanna. “Some of the translation was also donated and now the book is available as an eBook in English, making it accessible to more people throughout the world.” “It’s really important that instead of focusing on big things we try to accomplish small things like visiting the shelter more often and trying to support the women who are living there,” she continued. “We also want to do more activities related to art to help us convey our messages.” Despite encountering some road blocks on their journeys, both Hanna and Caitlin continue to find ways to let their lives speak—and to help the lives of those around them to speak just as loudly.
Hanna and her friends were so moved they created a website called Justice for Comfort Women, and a small movement was born. The group was also inspired to create art after their visit. Their work won prizes in a local painting contest and they were exhibited at the National Theater of Korea, during a dance performance inspired by the survivors’ stories and choreographed by An Jung-hun. Hanna and her friends have spent countless hours updating their blog, organizing art exhibits, and working to get a book written by Jung-Mo Yoon, which tells the story of a young girl who was kidnapped and had to become a comfort woman,
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Perspectives
Speaking Truth to Power
Danielle Walker Palmour ’82, foundation director of the Friends Provident Foundation, is no stranger to leadership. As the director of an organization that was created to support financial literacy programs for social good, she has had many opportunities to explore leadership from a variety of perspectives.
“ I try to empower those I manage to realize that what they think is as important as what I think and that it is my job to empower them to do their jobs well.…” “We take our heritage seriously,” said Danielle, speaking of the foundation’s roots in what would essentially be considered life insurance. “My trustees are concerned with how money and financial systems can contribute to social good as well as produce economic outputs. We work on how financial services can better serve low income households, and how the financial system might support a better and more resilient economy. “Given our unique position as a charity, leadership takes many forms—finding and making new alliances, convening NGOs, speaking truth
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to power—I like that part—bringing the voices of those not at the table, and being intellectually open and honest about the power relationships within philanthropy and trying to treat all we support as true partners in our dealing with them. The ‘creating spaces for others’ is my favorite bit. New solutions and social change are only possible if new voices join the debate.” Danielle learned leadership from both Anne LeDuc and Dave Satterthwaite ’65 who were her coaches while she was a student at George School. “Anne scared me to death and first—but then she just became Anne. This showed me that even those who seem the most intimidating are human and quite often have a sense of humor.” “Dave [taught me leadership] by giving everyone on the track team—no matter their level of achievement—the same care and attention. As a runner, I learned to have the greatest admiration not for those that won every race but for those who didn’t and still kept showing up.” Danielle also credits George School with teaching her about collective responsibility through programs like co-op which helped her see ways in which every community member is responsible for the school. Now, Danielle finds her greatest strength as a leader to be her ignorance of, and lack of interest in, hierarchies. “I find such things tedious and uninteresting. This means that I can appear fearless and iconoclastic when in fact I am just taking an opportunity to make a point. “I try to empower those I manage to realize that what they think is as important as what I think and that it is my job to empower them to do their jobs well—this is seen as terribly American in the UK (which is quite a hierarchical place in terms of subtle things like accents, what school you went to, and how much polenta you eat) but I am not sure it isn’t really George School weaving its influence.”
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BRUCE WELLER
Perspectives
Leadership and Adaptability BY NANCY STARMER The demands of leadership are changing. This is true here at George School and in businesses and professions world-wide. In recognition of this trend, we have launched the Adaptability Project, a two-year program offering training for aspiring faculty leaders around three critical understandings: we live in a time of rapid and disruptive change; rapid change requires different leadership skills, assumptions, and decision-making structures; and emotional intelligence is more important than ever. In the field of education, the changes ahead are not only rapid but fundamental. Keith Devlin, executive director of H-STAR, the Human Sciences and Technology Advanced Research Institute at Stanford University, makes the following analogy: If you went back to the 18th century and you got sick, good luck, because you might find somebody who was instinctively a good doctor or who was lucky, but medicine was just hit and miss, depending on talent and luck. Then came the development first of chemistry, then biology, evolutionary biology, all the developments of modern science on which we ground medi-
cal training today. In 200 years, medicine went from hit-and-miss hunches to a scientifically grounded discipline where today the chances are very high that a doctor will be able to help you and make you well. Right now, in education, we are in the 18th century, but I believe that we are actually within a couple decades of being able to make education a scientifically grounded discipline as well, to improve education to the point where like medicine, the chances are very high that each student will be able to learn to his or her true potential. Yes, there’ll be good teachers and bad teachers and better teachers and worse teachers, but it will all be grounded in [scientific] understanding. As breakthroughs in neuroscience and technology challenge teachers to change age-old patterns of behavior and to discern which understandings are credible and how best to apply them, new demands are placed on both classroom teachers and educational leaders. Again, education is not alone in facing such challenges. Argues Rita Gunther McGrath in her book The End of Competitive Advantage, enabling
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Modern organizations must be more innovative and future oriented than ever, able to deal with disruption, quick to take advantage of new opportunities, and agile enough to change course quickly when conditions change.
traditionally stable organizations that are used to planning for change over relatively long blocks of time to adapt to rapid and unpredictable change demands a new set of skills from both leaders and practitioners. Modern organizations must be more innovative and future oriented than ever, she notes, able to deal with disruption, quick to take advantage of new opportunities, and agile enough to change course quickly when conditions change. Finally, research related to the influence of emotions on behavior and the capacities that are necessary for effective leadership, especially in times of rapid change, suggests that many of the myths surrounding the qualities of good leaders are just that—myths. According to Dr. Annie McKee, director of the Teleos Leadership Institute and presenter at a recent faculty in-service at George School, the qualities once assumed central to effective leadership, particularly intellectual aptitude, are less important than once believed. “Eighty-five to ninety percent of the difference between average and outstanding leaders is linked to emotional intelligence,” she argues, defining emotional intelligence as “self-awareness, social awareness, self-management, and relationship management.” In addition, McKee notes, an organization’s culture is as important to its success as its leadership, and culture is the responsibility of every member of the organization. When a culture is character-
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ized by feelings such as hope, compassion, excitement, respect, and growth, those feelings resonate and make change less threatening. Since emotions are contagious, a good part of a leader’s job rests in supporting and fostering a resonant organizational culture. These three central understandings—that scientific discoveries are bringing rapid, fundamental changes to our profession; that to survive and thrive this rapid pace of change George School, like other organizations, must intentionally foster creativity, collaboration across departments and professions, openness to new ideas, and agility; and that leadership today requires a high degree of emotional intelligence and the positive qualities that Dr. McKee calls “resonance”—have prompted the creation of what we are calling at George School the Adaptability Project. Engaging a core group of a dozen mid-career teachers, the two-year program consists of readings, presentations both to the group and to the faculty as a whole, hands-on workshops, and opportunities for the participants to lead their colleagues in making adaptive changes to the curriculum, residential life, and classroom pedagogy. Members of the Adaptability Task Force are familiarizing themselves with a broad range of information on issues affecting the future of education in the United States. They are expanding their own understanding of the ways in which decisions
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made by the faculty affect and are affected by decisions in areas of the school such as admission, college guidance, development, physical plant, and finance. And they are seeking a deeper understanding of the qualities that make George School’s culture both resonant and special. This spring, Task Force participants will be identifying new opportunities, teaming up to do research, and developing proposals for change at George School. After presenting their proposals to a panel of colleagues, administrators, board members, and heads of other schools, the group will bring proposals to the faculty next year. The goal is not necessarily to effect any particular change (though already participants are hoping for concrete success), but to gain understanding through experience. While this goal may seem modest, Quaker organizations are not well known for agile decisionmaking. The George School faculty, like members of many Quaker meetings and organizations, treasure the deep, open conversations that characterize their decisions and that often require deliberation over long periods of time. As the pace of change increases, leaders must be able to bring their colleagues to a recognition that the qualities that underpin these treasured decision-making processes today—collaboration, openness to a variety of perspectives, the belief in continual revelation, and the ability to
trust the wisdom of the group, even when the outcome is unknown—remain critical. However they must and can be streamlined without sacrificing the hopeful, trusting, compassionate, resonant culture that has characterized George School for a very long time. The Adaptability Project is meant to expand participants’ knowledge of the changing educational landscape, the demands of leadership in a new era, and the qualities central to Quaker decision-making. Most importantly, this small but talented group of teachers will be better prepared to lead their George School colleagues and assist our next head of school in addressing the challenging and very exciting changes that are coming our way.
1. Devlin, Keith, from an interview with Krista Tippet. National Public Radio: On Being, September 2013. 2. See McGrath, Rita Gunther (2013). The End of Competitive Advantage. Boston: Harvard Business Review Press. 3. S ee McKee, Annie, (2013). Management: A Focus on Leaders. London: Pearson Prentice Hall; and Goleman, Daniel, Richard Boyatzis, and Annie McKee, (2002). Primal Leadership: Realizing the Power of Emotional Intelligence. Boston: Harvard Business Review Press.
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Perspectives
eQuiz Highlights Our recent survey of alumni from the Classes of 1992 through 2012 revealed that one of the attributes alumni are most grateful for learning at George School was leadership skills. This prompted us to ask alumni to share their thoughts on leadership—the definition of leadership, the skills and personal qualities required for leadership, and their advice for someone assuming a leadership position for the first time—in our December eQuiz. Thanks to the many alumni who shared their thoughts through the eQuiz. Some of their responses are highlighted here.
On the eQuiz, alumni were asked to identify the top five qualities a leader should possess. COMMUNIC AT ION S K IL L S HONE S T Y A BIL I T Y T O DE L E G AT E CONF IDE NCE P E RSE V E R A NCE
36 . 0 % 24 . 0 % 21. 0 % 9.5 % 9.5 %
Other qualities included patience, flexibility, sense of humor, commitment, positive attitude, creativity, intuition, ability to inspire, big-picture thinking, and problem-solving on the fly.
Displaying Leadership 1952 | Headley White Jr.
1986 | Chris Dixon A leader is someone who motivates individuals or a group to achieve. A leader is someone who cares about all aspects of the individual and demonstrates honest concern for their welfare and wellbeing. A leader is someone who sets the example for others to emulate. A leader is someone who chooses the harder right over the easier wrong. A leader provides vision, organization, direction, motivation, and drive to achieve a goal or mission. A leader empowers his subordinates to achieve their tasks and missions.
2002 | Alyssa Blank Being a leader, means having the confidence to proceed despite not being guaranteed an outcome. Importance of Leadership 1955 | Alison Claus Throughout much of our lives we are asked to be leaders in a variety of ways—it may be in our jobs, it may be as a parent, it may be as a mentor, it may be in what we do for hobbies or for our community, or the services we commit to. If we are ready to step in as a leader we will experience life more fully and contribute to all around us in a greater way. 1959 | David Johnson
A leader is one who can inspire others to participate in and accomplish the mission of whatever group he/she is leading.
The skill set is never fully developed, it’s always a work in progress. While it means different things to each of us, in its simplest form, it really is getting things done through people.
1956 | Nancy Crowell Reinbold
1971 | Amy Horne
To be a leader, one must inspire trust, faith, and have incredible listening skills. A peaceful nature and knowing just the right sagacious advice is a priority. Knowing when not to give advice is equally important.
1973 | Jeffrey Schwartz Being a leader means incorporating the ideas of those you work with. It means teaching the people you work with how to think for themselves. In
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addition it means instilling confidence in those under your care.
A leader provides vision, organization, and skill while simultaneously inspiring and enabling others (or organizations) to achieve. Leadership is that force of drive and concern that breeds cohesion and a self-perpetuating cycle of excellence to achieve.
1973 | John Hoffman Without it, we’re no different from animals, and being part of the herd. Yes, we need sheep, but we need shepherds too. Leaders are shepherds.
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Alumni Profile Robert Freedman ’54
What does it mean to be a leader? Leaders need to set examples by action and by how they deal with the world. Words have their place but if a person’s actions belie their words, they cancel each other out. What are some of the lessons you have learned about leadership? I have learned that we do not see ourselves as others see us. There is, in each of us, a sense that we are only playing at leadership, that we will fail, that we are frauds, that we will be ‘found out.’ We need to understand that everyone has this fear to some extent or another and that to lead one had to simply dismiss this fear and simply act the part we have chosen until our confidence catches up with us. What advice would you give someone taking a leadership role for the first time? More than anything else, people need to feel they are being heard and their concerns heeded. They will not always agree with your way of doing things but if they truly know that you have listened to their fears and concerns, your way ahead will be much easier. You need to start with the assumption that everyone you deal with may have good ideas of how to do things a little better, that you need to truly listen to them and not just dismiss them or defend against them, and you need to develop enough confidence that you do not have to always have to be right!
What did George School teach you about leadership? I learned that I didn’t have to be class president to be a class leader, I didn’t have to be Student Council head to lead, and so on. I learned that the way that worked best for me was just to relax, do my job whatever it was (school store co-student head, for example) quietly. When I simply followed my instincts about what needed doing, I found I ended up leading naturally. I was simply being me.
Robert is the president of the Robert A. Freedman Dramatic Agency located in New York City. First founded by his father in 1928, Robert took over the family business in 1966. He developed his agent skills working with his father and has represented some of the biggest names and estates in theater including Thornton Wilder and Mary Chase, and some of today’s most critically acclaimed playwrights. Bob was vice president (Dramatic) of Society of Authors’ Representatives (now Association of Authors’ Representatives) for a total of fifteen years. He is a lifelong resident of New York City where he lives with his wife.
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1982 | Tobi Elkin
1958 | Mary Trent Jones
It’s important because everyone doesn’t have a voice to advocate for themselves, for social justice, and issues of global importance.
One has to have confidence in oneself. To be a leader I had to have a sense of humor and patience. I had to learn to delegate responsibility.
2004 | Daniel Suchenski
1964 | Judith Mcllvain
Leadership allows us the unique opportunity to see ourselves the way that we would like to be seen so we have a clearer understanding of how to get there.
How to move people into the team spirit. How to motivate by example. How to be inclusive. How to communicate my own enthusiasm for the task. How to think “outside the box.” How to be an informed decision maker. How to communicate better.
Inspiring Leaders 1959 | David Johnson At GS there were many leaders to learn from. Here are some who influenced me, in no special order: Julius Laramore, Walter Mohr, Bob Geissinger, John Streetz, and Jack Templeton.
1964 | Morgan Phenix
1988 | Frances Papatestas Rodgers Rob Orr was one of my favorite leaders/teachers at GS. I think all teachers are leaders as evidenced by John Quincy’s quote: “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, you are a leader.” Rob inspired me to learn more. As a result I became a teacher too.
1971 | Amy Horne
1995 | Jaime Ginsberg Nancy Zurn Bernardini. Outstanding leader and role model. She leads by example and by inspiring/ empowering others around her to be themselves fully and push the limits positively. Amazing communication skills; understands her audience as a whole and the individual needs within the whole.
Lessons Learned 1947 | Art Henrie You may not always be right so be prepared to rethink and change to a better direction.
It’s not all about the leader, it’s about shared responsibility, trust, and humility. I struggled with these.
It is important to pay attention to and honor the emotions of people involved. Sometimes it is important to just listen to people’s stories of grief and anger. Sometimes it is important to simply say, “I hear you.” Notice if disputing parties do not trust each other and find ways to build some trust. Have patience because you may have to say the same thing over and over again before people really hear you. I have learned to question whether my own feelings are biasing my decisions, and if so to let those feelings go so I can think more clearly.
1973 | Dwaynne McKamey Communicate, communicate, communicate in any way possible, tell them the plan and provide feedback both good and bad. Develop trust, then mentor, mentor, mentor. Delegate authority and responsibility, reward success, address failures so they are not repeated. The team watches the leader and then emulates them. Develop a culture by design not by default!
1952 | Headley White Jr. Stick to your convictions and at the same time be flexible and willing to compromise. Be honest. Don’t take yourself so seriously that you become a pain to others. Be willing to work hard.
1954 | Charlot te Corry Partin I think it depends on who you are leading. Children have to be interested and guided into a certain way of behaving and learning. Adults have to be motivated and talked to at their level. Patience is required for both groups.
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1982 | Tobi Elkin I have learned how important it is to listen to people and be fully present.
1984 | Kirsten Palmer Each task is a stepping stone...
PERSPECTIVES
Alumni Profile Andrew Chen ’91
Why is leadership an important skill? Leadership is the “glue” that holds an organization together. An organization can have a lot of incredibly talented people, but if they are “leaderless,” they could all be working in different directions and causing a lot of chaos. What advice would you give someone going into a leadership position for the first time? Be humble. There’s no way you can possibly know everything you need to know up front, so learn from your people. People like teaching their bosses, and it helps to build trust between you and the people for whom you are now responsible. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, but make them honorably with the best of intentions—and be honest and open about your mistakes; don’t try to cover them up or make excuses for them. Leadership requires a hard, brutal, and honest self-assessment of your personality, skills, temperament, strengths, and weaknesses. It is not for the faint of heart, and yet a leader should also have a tender side. It requires a heavy hand, but a light touch. You have to be willing to be unpopular with your people, but ultimately be loved and admired by them as well. In short, it is truly one of the most difficult skills to learn to do well.
What lessons did you learn about leadership at George School? I first discovered that leadership was more than about just being in charge during my senior year when I was co-captain of the baseball team (along with Matthew Barlow ’91 and Richard Piechota ’91). In addition to learning about responsibility for your people, I learned about influence—that it is not about ordering people around, and that there is an art to getting others to do what you want them to do. Vince Campellone was our baseball head coach, and he exhibited all the traits of what I later learned was a “Level 5 leader.”
Andrew is a commander in the US Public Health Service and a region 2 emergency coordinator for the US Department of Health and Human Services. He is responsible for coordinating and overseeing all public health and medical services under the national response framework for New York, New Jersey, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands. He was responsible for all federal public health and medical personnel in New Jersey after Hurricane Sandy, for all federal mental health professionals in Boston after the bombing of the Boston Marathon, and for all federal mortuary personnel in Buffalo, New York after the Continental 3407 plane crash. Andrew lives in Newtown, Pennsylvania with his wife.
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APRIL 2015
George School Launches Metabolic Testing Program BY LAURA NOEL
Sometimes referred to as the Darth Vader test because of the face mask each participant wears, metabolic testing allows coaches to learn all sorts of information about a subject and use it to tailor their training program. “Mark, you have confirmed that you’re an athlete, now we’re figuring out if you’re a legend. Keep on running,” says Paul Weiss, director of athletics, to Mark Peterson ’16 of Southampton, Pennsylvania. The steady beat of the latest pop music plays in the background as Mark, fitted with a metabolic testing mask, runs on a treadmill in the Hayden Family Fitness Center. “Two hundred and two, right on. Sixty three point seven recorded,” says Paul encouragingly, referring to Mark’s heart rate and VO2 measurements, respectively. “You’re moving from athlete to legend.” Mark continues running, encouraged by his friends and teammates who are gathered around the treadmill and the metabolic testing cart Paul has created for use with George School athletes. As he runs, Paul slowly raises the incline of the treadmill keeping his pace steady but increasing the difficulty of the run. “What’s the cue for increasing the incline,” asks Jack Carideo ’17, the next student in line for metabolic testing. “One minute and thirty seconds,” replies Paul. “I’m doing a 90 second ramp protocol which is a very typical treadmill VO2 max test design. There are a number of treadmill profiles we can use. There is an acceleration profile where we keep him flat but run him at speed, but I find that doesn’t produce an accurate test. His biomechanics break down and we stress him in different ways. He can maintain the same gait under the stress of an incline and will have less biomechanical issues so
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I don’t have to worry about how good a runner he is, I just send him up a hill.” “So you never increase the speed,” Jack questioned. “If he goes to twelve degrees [of incline] and he hasn’t popped yet, I’ll start increasing the speed.” The metabolic testing cart has become a familiar site in the corner of the Hayden Family Fitness Center. Outfitted with the latest in testing equipment the cart features a laptop and small wireless printer—a mini, mobile science lab. Sometimes referred to as the Darth Vader test because of the face mask each participant wears, metabolic testing allows coaches to learn all sorts of information about a subject and use it to tailor their training program. Each test looks at VO2 max and aerobic and anaerobic thresholds—something many athletes don’t think about outside of the science classroom. The aerobic threshold is the first thing Paul determines. This is the level at which the body begins burning sugar for energy, in theory, the level at which an athlete can continue to perform for hours. Eventually, as the test continues, the athlete will reach anaerobic threshold, or the point at which the cardiovascular system can no longer deliver enough oxygen to burn sugar efficiently. When an athlete is working at their anaerobic threshold they begin to transition from burning sugar to producing lactic acid that accumulates in their blood stream.
L AUR A NOEL
FEATURES
DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS PAUL WEISS recommends metabolic testing. “The tests tell us what event or sport an athlete is best suited to and what types of training they need to do to improve their metabolic profile and become a better athlete.” Above he discusses testing with Jack Carideo ’17, one of the first students to participate in the program.
Finally, the tests collect information about an athlete’s VO2 max, or the total oxygen carrying capacity for their cardio respiratory system. This data is collected while a person is performing in their sport—for cross country that means running on a treadmill—and is useful in helping Paul determine a number of things that will ultimately impact their training. “The tests tell us what event or sport an athlete is best suited to and what types of training they need to do to improve their metabolic profile and become a better athlete,” says Paul. For some, this will mean running intervals, for others, running longer distances at a slower than normal pace. But the testing isn’t just for the athletes. Paul has taken the metabolic testing from the gym to the science classroom, using it as an educational tool for students and faculty alike as they study the various data and statistics the tests produce. And if the huddle of students crowding around is any indication, the education is happening outside the classroom as well. “So, test results,” says Paul, after Mark has finished running and has stood quietly so the machine can track his recovery time. “VO2 at fifty-six point eight, heart rate 200, and it says your fitness level is superior—which is way better than moderate, average, or below average.” “So what training does Mark need to do?” asks Jack.
“We’re going to find out,” replied Paul. “There is some data analysis I have to do now. This gives me some of the results but I have to do some math to figure out what Mark should do next.” Editor’s Note: As a result of the metabolic tests run on Mark earlier this year, Varsity Track Coach Stephen Moyer ’82 has implemented a training regimen for him that will help maximize his results. “In Mark’s case, the results showed that he needs to train at a heart rate between 165-176 beats per minute,” said Stephen. “What we can do is equate that to a pace so that when Mark is on training runs he knows that if he is moving at a range between 7:40 and 8:00 minutes per mile, he is likely in his target heart range—and throughout the run he can stop to check his heart rate to confirm he is in the right range.” For Mark, this works perfectly because he knows if he simply follows the science, he will see optimal improvement. After following the training, Mark improved his performance in the 1600-meter race. “We are very excited about this new resource and look forward to using it for all our endurance athletes moving forward. The VO2 test results make a world of difference in training. Instead of just having athletes run, we can have them train at an optimal pace to maximize the return on their effort,” said Stephen. More information about metabolic testing can be found on our website.
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APRIL 2015
BRUCE WELLER
A New Look at Math
KEVIN MOON, Math Department head, wants students to have the opportunity to take more advanced courses earlier in their high school career.
New math department offerings in fall 2015 will allow incoming freshmen to choose among several course options in their first year based on their demonstrated ability, interest, and individual goals. Freshmen who have completed a year of Honors Geometry will begin in Algebra 2 with Introduction to Analysis. This will allow them to take Precalculus, Calculus, and AB Calculus in subsequent years. Another advanced plan will allow freshmen who have completed both Algebra 1 and 2 to begin with Geometry with Trigonometry. They can continue their math education with Algebra 2 with Introduction to Analysis, Precalculus, and Calculus. A third option for students with an exceptional talent and interest in math is available for freshmen with a strong background in Algebra 1, Algebra 2, and Geometry. It will begin with Advanced Algebraic and Geometric Analysis. Following that these students will have the opportunity to take Advanced Precalculus, AB Calculus, and BC Calculus. “Incoming students are arriving at George School better prepared to tackle advanced math classes during their freshman year. Their hard work and the effort of their eighth-grade teachers gives us the opportunity to offer students access to all the most advanced math classes throughout their time in high school,” shared Kevin Moon, Math Department head.
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“These new offerings for freshmen are a great option for students who want to accelerate their math curriculum by taking math classes over the summer following their freshman year since advanced Algebra 2 courses are more widely available than rigorous courses in geometry with trigonometry, particularly at community colleges,” shared Laura Kinnel, George School registrar. In addition to these new course plans, the Science and Math Departments are adding AP Computer Science A for students who have taken Intensive Computer Programming and Robotics, or who demonstrate sufficient programming background on a placement test. Several recent trends have impacted the decisions to offer more math courses. “In recent years, new students have been better prepared and more talented when they arrive and many have already completed a full-year of honors algebra,” said Associate Head of School Scott Spence. “In addition, students continue to improve their scores in the annual American Mathematics Contests (AMC)—last year fifteen students qualified to move on to the second round of the competition, a significant increase from just five years ago when only one student qualified.” The Math Department has also noted that more students are showing an interest in mathrelated subjects including computer programming, statistics, and engineering, and the new In-ter-stellar Math team that was created this fall. “Since students will have the opportunity to take more advanced courses earlier in their high school career, I expect that nearly 40 percent of our students will be able to take calculus during their junior year,” said Kevin. “This will open up even more options for advanced study during their senior year and may allow even more students to receive college credit for the classes they take at George School.” A complete list of math classes available at George School can be found on the Courses and Course Planning section of our website.
SUSAN QUINN
FEATURES
THE MATH TEAM, a new addition to George School, was founded this fall when a group of students heard about the In-ter-stel-lar competition.
Math Team Ranks Ninth in National Competition The George School Math Team competed this fall in a series of math competitions through the In-terstel-lar website. The team, comprised of seventeen students, worked with teacher Kevin Moon to complete a series of online challenges. In December 2014, they were ranked ninth out of 100 teams. The math team, a new addition to George School, was founded this fall when a group of students heard about the In-ter-stel-lar competition. “We had the idea of making a math team and we talked to Kevin about it,” said Guanting Liu ’16. “It worked out really well. I find it interesting to do math problems and be there for the team. The most fun part is enjoying the moment when we surpass the other teams in points.” Each individual on the team participates in a series of thirty minute challenges, working independently to answer as many questions as they can. “These are strong students in class, and their out of class commitment to excellence in math is exceptional,” said Kevin Moon, math teacher and Math Team faculty sponsor. “When they find a problem they can’t do, they look it up, ask teachers and friends, and learn the material.” “Trying to find a time when everyone can stop what they are doing and log onto the website is harder than it sounds. The questions are sent out
on a particular day and time and there are eight to ten creative challenging questions that cover a full range of concepts,” continued Kevin. “The top five students are scorers for the team. They don’t know if they are number two or number fifteen, so everyone steps up.” The team is comprised of a mix of freshman, sophomores, juniors, and seniors including John Zhang ’16 who has competed on a math team before. “My experience with math teams is that they are always a lot of fun, and you never know what you are going to learn,” shared John. “The Math Madness competition was a perfect opportunity because of its flexibility and its accessibility.” “I think it is a lot of fun and improves my math abilities,” Mingxuan Shi ’18 added. “For each match, I take my computer, paper, pen, calculator and dictionary, and find somewhere quiet and just relax. The most fun part is actually doing those questions and competing alongside my teammates.” The competition known as Math Madness is considered a League Play event by the In-ter-stel-lar organization. It opens with a series of round robin competitions organized across the country based primarily on skill level. It concludes with a bracket challenge where all teams participate, separated into divisions based on skill level. Questions are challenging and cover a wide range of math skills.
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APRIL 2015
George School Connect George School is excited to announce a free mobile app to help you keep in touch with other alumni. This spring we will roll out George School Connect —our new alumni app powered by EverTrue that will put our alumni network at your fingertips. Discover what your friends and classmates are up to. Network, find old friends, and reconnect. This new mobile app for iPhone, iPad, and Android devices provides secure, password protected access to features such as our alumni directory, a map function that shows nearby alumni, and information from George School, including news, events, and social media. The mobile app is accessible exclusively by George School alumni through the use of your email address on record with the school.
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What information is included?
The information that will display in the app is your name, class year, and contact information. You can email classmates, make calls, and even sync your personal LinkedIn accounts with the directory right from within the app. Sharing and Privacy
Only members of George School’s alumni community have access to the information shared on this app. The information you decide to share is up to you. Once in the app, you are able to request that specific information be hidden or displayed by selecting the “Suggest Updates” button at the bottom of your profile.
FEATURES
Reconnecting with Classmates
If you want to reconnect or organize a minireunion with the people in your area, you can use the George School alumni app map function, “Alumni Nearby,” to see who is in the surrounding area. Touch one of the GS pins to find a local alum to email, call, or connect with directly. Networking
George School Connect is also a resource for alumni who are looking to network professionally or who are job hunting. By connecting your LinkedIn account to George School Connect, you can expand your network, furthering your professional endeavors. You can search through the alumni directory to find alumni in a specific field, using filters and the directory. For example, you can reach out to fellow classmates who work in finance to ask them for advice on entering the field or about their experience at a certain company. Visiting or Moving to a New Area
When visiting or moving to a new city, the “Alumni Nearby” map feature is a great way to connect with other alumni. You can reach out to a member of the community to grab a coffee, get dinner, or learn more about the neighborhood. News and Social Media
George School Connect makes it simple for alumni to connect with George School news and events covered in social media including Twitter and Facebook. By clicking on the “News and Social” tab in the app, you can stay involved and connected with George School—whether it is viewing pictures from Alumni Weekend or watching a YouTube video of this year’s commencement ceremony. Learn More
Visit georgeschool.org/connect to download the app for your phone, for a list of our Frequently Asked Questions, and for more details.
Available May 2015.
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APRIL 2015
Alumni Weekend MAY 8, 9, AND 10, 2015
Celebrate your lifelong connection to George School every year during Alumni Weekend. Classes ending in 0 and 5 are celebrating milestone reunions. Renew ties with friends, explore new ideas, and discover common ground with fellow alumni. Registration opens in April. Alumni Weekend is just around the corner. Each spring, more and more alumni come back to campus, spreading the warmth of their enduring affection for George School. Last year, attendance topped 450. We expect to set new records in 2015. And really, how can one resist the lure of a May weekend spent with the wonderful George School family on our beautiful campus? There is so much to see and enjoy this year, including our spectacular new Fitness and Athletics Center. Then there’s the pleasure of visiting old classrooms and dorms and finding your commencement photo in Main. And where better to gather with family and friends than South Lawn, our own Central Park. This year our Alumni Award recipient is Mark K. Updegrove ’80, an American author and historian, and the director of the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum. Mark will discuss “Leadership in the Civil Rights Movement” during the Friday, May 8 assembly and will present a master class on Saturday, May 9 “What I’ve Learned from Seven Presidents.” At 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 9 we will dedicate the new Fitness and Athletics Center and thank the many donors who made this new
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building possible. Don’t miss the opportunity to tour this amazing facility that is making such a difference in the lives of our students. Alumni Weekend will let you time-travel back to your student years with stimulating programs and workshops. Remember to sample sticky buns in the Dining Room and to meet your classmates for your reunion photo. You can doubleknot your sneakers and meet us for a Zumba class in the Fitness and Athletics Center or on the playing fields for our Alumni Games. Or visit the many exhibits of student work on view across campus. Throughout the weekend, you’ll renew treasured friendships and rediscover everything you love about George School. Registration information and the complete weekend schedule is online at georgeschool.org/ alumniweekend. Be sure to stop by the Mollie Dodd Anderson Library to learn more about George School Connect, our new alumni mobile app, and plan your weekend for maximum fun. Whether you’ll be celebrating your 5th reunion or your 65th, introducing your children to George School—or your grandchildren!—please come share your George School spirit, May 8-10. We look forward to seeing you on campus.
FEATURES
Alumni Award Recipient: Mark K. Updegrove ’80
“At a young age I had achieved what many would consider great heights,” shares Mark K. Updegrove ’80, becoming president of Time Canada and publisher of Newsweek. But business success only brought uncertainty. “I used to think, I’m not doing what I should be doing,” he concedes. “It took me a while to figure out what that was.” A chance conversation at a party launched him toward what would become a second career—as a presidential historian and director of the Lyndon Baines Johnson Presidential Library. This new role has fulfilled him personally and fulfilled his sense of responsibility. “George School gave me a set of values that I’ve retained: an appreciation for social justice and a responsibility to contribute to my community and my country.” It’s for this that he is being honored with the school’s Alumni Award. Mark dates his fascination with presidential history to seeing Gerald Ford at the bicentennial celebrations in Philadelphia, but the flames were fanned in John Davison’s US history class. “He had a way of bringing history alive,” Mark recalls. “He would dress up or role play or play jazz music, the one true American art form, and it captured my imagination.” Mark was also profoundly affected by an assembly in which Ralph Abernathy talked about the civil rights movement. Still, Mark chose economics, which he thought was a more practical major, at the University of Maryland, and embarked on a corporate career. Then came that serendipitous conversation. Mark’s interest in the presidency was rekindled. He began writing a book, Second Acts: Presidential Lives and Legacies After the White House. Ironically, the book began Mark’s own second act. He has since written two more books on the modern presidency and is working on a fourth. In 2009 Mark became the director of the LBJ Library that he describes as “a place that provides a forum for the biggest names and best minds to hold
forth on the issues of our times,” because it had a “reputation of being among the best presidential libraries.” Last August, Mark oversaw the library’s Civil Rights Summit to mark the Civil Rights Act’s fiftieth anniversary. Four presidents, including President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama, President George W. Bush and Laura Bush, President Bill Clinton, and President Jimmy Carter, and other luminaries from politics, journalism, the arts, and entertainment came to Austin to address a wide range of civil rights issues. Notable among them were Andrew Young, John Lewis, and George School alumnus (and Mark’s friend) Julian Bond ’57, who “talked about the movement that they helped to lead in the 1960s and areas of social justice that we need to address today.” “The Civil Rights Summit was the most significant event of my career,” says Mark, “not just because I played host to four presidents, but because I was able to generate awareness, particularly among young people, of an America that was largely devoid of civil rights and to offer solutions and shed light on issues we face today. That’s very much in keeping with the values that I learned at George School.” Looking at his current leadership role and the George School lessons that eventually led him to it, he reflects, “What I derived from my experience there was that you need to feed your mind and always continue to learn, to nurture your spirit and find something you believe in. And to mind the light that flickers in you uniquely—knowing what you have that you can give the world.”
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APRIL 2015
A LU M N I W E E K E N D 2015 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
F R I D AY, M AY 8 10:2 5-11:10 a.m. Seating begins at 10:00 a.m. All-School Assembly: Leadership in the Civil Rights Movement Mark Updegrove ’80 Walton Center, Auditorium 11:3 0 a.m.-1:15 p.m. Lunch with students, faculty, and alumni Main, Dining Room 12:3 0-1:15 p.m. Campus Walking Tour Main, Admission Office 1:3 0-2:15 p.m. George School Athletics: Building for the Future Paul Weiss, director of athletics Fitness and Athletics Center 2:3 0 p.m. Guided Tour of the Fitness and Athletics Center 4:00 p.m. Student Home Athletic Contests Athletic Fields
S AT U R D AY, M AY 9 8:00-9:00 a.m. Continental Breakfast Mollie Dodd Anderson Library 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Welcome Center and Registration Mollie Dodd Anderson Library
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9:00 a.m. Memorial Meeting for Worship Meetinghouse 9:3 0-10:3 0 a.m. Zumba Class Fitness and Athletics Center, Garrett Family Studio 10:00 a.m. Presidential Leadership: What I’ve Learned from Seven Presidents Mark Updegrove ’80 Walton Center, Auditorium 10:00 a.m. Alumni Games: Boys’ Tennis Tennis Courts by Hallowell Arts Center 10:3 0-11:3 0 a.m. Yoga Class Fitness and Athletics Center, Garrett Family Studio 10:3 0 a.m.-2:3 0 p.m. Children’s Moonbounce Orton Lawn
1:00-2:15 p.m. Fitness and Athletics Center Dedication All-Alumni Gathering Fitness and Athletics Center, North Gym 2:3 0 p.m. Alumni Games Boys’ Baseball, Boys’ Lacrosse Girls’ Lacrosse, Girls’ Softball Playing Fields 2:3 0 p.m. Guided Tour of the Fitness and Athletics Center 2:3 0 p.m. Upside Down Drawing Workshop Jo¯ Adachi, painting and drawing teacher Mollie Dodd Anderson Library, Conference Room 4:00 p.m. All-Community BBQ with former faculty, alumni, faculty, staff, parents, and students Tent on Farm Drive
11:15 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Buffet Lunches Main, Dining Room, 25th Reunion: Tent on Farm Drive 50th Reunion: Tent by Red Square Senior Alumni (Classes ’64 and earlier): Mollie Dodd Anderson Library, Patio
Evening Off Campus Reunion Events
11:15 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Reunion Class Photos
11:3 0 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Sunday Brunch Main, Dining Room
S U N D AY, M AY 10 10:4 5-11:3 0 a.m. Meeting for Worship Meetinghouse
FEATURES
Memories from ALUMNI WEEKEND 2 010
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DECEMBER 2014
Campus News & Notes BY LAURA NOEL AND SUSAN QUINN
JIM INVERSO
Here is some of what you have been missing if you haven’t been visiting the George School News & Events website at georgeschool.org/news.
The Threepenny Opera Debuts Mack the Knife was on the prowl in Walton Theater in February. Staged by George School students, the community enjoyed The Threepenny Opera, a raucous and outrageous musical that featured Victorian London’s most virtuous whores and upstanding thieves. Based on the play The Beggar’s Opera, the show follows the exploits of the mischievous Macheath or Mack the Knife, played by Sam Balka ’16. Performed using kabuki style makeup and exaggerated costumes the show attempts to break down the fourth wall usually experienced by the audience during a production.
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Qudsiyyah Shariyf ’15 were named National Achievement Scholarship Finalists by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation.
National Merit and National Achievement Scholarship Finalists Announced Two students were named National Merit Scholarship Finalists by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. Rachel “Scout” Underberg-Davis ’15 and Abigail Ireland ’15 will be considered for a National Merit Scholarship this spring. Adam Fofana ’15 and
George School Honors MLK The George School community is a highly diverse and creative group of young scholars who have shown their dedication to a range of issues facing our world from global warming to racial equality. This year, in honor of the work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., our community watched a performance of 1960: Black by Reggie Walker and participated in a talkback with the actors. Additionally, a group of students and faculty traveled to Philadelphia to participate in the Day of Action, Resistance, and Empowerment.
CAMPUS NEWS & NOTES
EDEN MCEWEN ’17
IB BIOLOGY STUDENTS Ksenia Semina ’15, Olivia Harrison ’15, and Rebecca Doyle ’15 posed with their experiment that explored global warming.
IB Science Weekend Focuses on Sustainability Students in IB Biology, IB Chemistry, IB Physics, and IB Environmental Systems and Societies spent the weekend of January 16 and 17 conducting experiments around the theme of sustainability. Students in each of the classes constructed a hypotheses and designed their experiments before the weekend began. Many focused on testing the environmental impact of various roofing and window options and the effects of climate on the growth of plants. Other groups explored global warming and the production of carbon dioxide, the effectiveness of various types of alcohol when used as a fuel source, and the effects of temperature on cellular respiration. Each group presented their findings during a Science Fair held later in the week.
Students Capture Scholastic Gold Keys Four AP and IB Painting and Drawing students captured Scholastic Gold Key Arts Awards. Their work was judged on originality, technical skill, and the emergence of personal voice or vision. Hanna Lee ’15 was recognized for her portfolio of eight works. “Transcending Time and Space” was selected for the Georgian cover. Chloe Hannah-Drullard ’16 was recognized for “Issues Piece 1,” Jacob Kind ’16 for “Women Waiting in Line,” and Christina Gummere ’16 for “Two Chapter Bubbles” and “Self Portrait from Life.” Instrumental Music Students Perform Members of the wind ensembles, the string ensemble, and Strings Plus performed in January at the George
School Meetinghouse. Their music featured classics like “Symphony Number 7” by Beethoven and contemporary pieces such as music from Harry Potter. Waghorne Academic Study Hub Open The tutoring center in Mollie Dodd Anderson Library has officially been named the Waghorne Academic Study Hub (WASH). It is home to Math Help and the Writing Center, two tutoring programs that are both in their second year. WASH has expanded these offerings to include peer tutoring in chemistry, French, Spanish, and further faculty assistance in a variety of subjects. The WASH room is open daily and often sees ten or more students making use of the space.
Yuval Thuroff ’16 Wins at Phillips’ Mill Yuval Thuroff ’16 won a blue ribbon for his contemporary furniture piece in the second annual Phillips’ Mill Youth Art Exhibition in New Hope, Pennsylvania. Yuval built an end table in his Advanced Woodworking class using maple, glass, and copper tubing. He donated his winnings to the woodworking program at George School.
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APRIL 2015
JIM INVERSO
JIM INVERSO
Cameron Vakili ’15 Reaches Seventieth Win Cameron Vakili ’15 captured his seventieth career win at the January Hill School’s fifteen-team Bissell Invitational Tournament. Cameron, who competed in the 120-pound weight class also recorded his twenty-eighth career pin at the tournament.
Equestrian Team Reaches Semi-Finals The newly formed George School Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) team has qualified three riders for the Zone Semi-Finals in March. The IEA is a nationwide network of high school equestrian programs and barns that compete against one another in a series of
shows throughout the year with the aim of qualifying for the Regional Finals, Zone Semi-Finals and Finals, and ultimately the IEA National Finals held each spring. The three students who qualified are Morgan Kaplan ’16 in Novice Flat and Dana Homer ’17 and Yasmina Cobrinik ’17 in Walk/Trot/Canter Flat.
JIM INVERSO
Lydia Thompson ’15 Recognized by NFHCA Lydia Thompson ’15 was recognized by the National Field Hockey Coaches Association as a member of the National Academic Squad. Recognition for this squad is given to high school seniors who have earned a minimum 3.5 GPA through the first quarter of the 2014-2015 academic year.
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ALUMNI TELL US
What’s Your
LEGACY? “ I believe we all have a responsibility to give back to organizations that have had an impact on our lives. Just as it’s important to give what you can now, it’s also important to give ‘later.’ I have made a bequest to George School with a gift through my estate. I encourage all GS grads to remember George School in your estate
Lam Hood ’55 John M. George Society Member
planning.”
We are seeking 150 new members for the John M. George Society. Won’t you join Lam by including George School in your will or any other part of your estate plans? Learn how by contacting Dan Breen, director of institutional advancement, at 215.579.6575 or dbreen@georgeschool.org.
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APRIL 2015
Alumni Tell Us EDITED BY MEG PEAKE ’03
For Alumni Contact Information: Visit our alumni website: georgeschool.org/alumni Contact the Advancement Office T. 215.579.6572 E. advancement@georgeschool.org
1943 Sonia Chalif Simon writes, “Now that my husband David has retired, we shall be able to spend more time in Spain, where our granddaughter, Sophia, is spending her senior year in high school.”
1944 Joel Raphaelson writes, “The first edition of Writing That Works, a book on business writing that I wrote with Kenneth Roman, was published in 1980. A second edition followed in 1991 and a third ten years later. It has now sold over 150,000 copies—the third edition just overtook the first— we’re thinking about a fourth, facing up to the new demands of Twitter, texting, and social media in general. I live in Chicago IL with Marikay, my wife of fifty-four years. We walk just about everywhere we can get to without a plane ticket. The possibility of doing that is one of the reasons why it’s so healthy to live in the middle of a big city.”
1945 Mary Lou Johnston Schmidt writes, “Our goal has been reached. Bill and I can finally retire as the decision has been made to sell Elysian Hills Tree Farm. We worked with the Vermont Land Trust to conserve the farm in 1995 to ensure that Elysian Hills continues into the future as a working farm. For more than thirty-five years Bill and I produced Christmas trees and heirloom Knapp
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rhubarb and have managed onehundred acres of woodland making Elysian Hills Tree Farm Vermont’s Outstanding Tree Farm in 1988. Over the years the farm became a destination for many families returning year after year to purchase their Christmas tree. The new owners will continue the tradition of producing Christmas trees, adding to the mix of products offered through Walker Farm’s CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) and at their farm stand. I have lived at Elysian Hills for fifty-five years, having purchased the farm from the Knapp family which had owned it for over 125 years. Bill and I will continue to live at Elysian Hills under the new ownership.”
1946 Carlos Luria writes, “It has been a good year, but spoiled by the Senate’s report on torture. I spent thirty years in the CIA, and while I can’t presume to speak for my former colleagues, I’m certain the overwhelming majority were appalled by what occurred. It wasn’t ‘The CIA’ that committed these atrocities. It was a small band of officers—desperate, unprepared, and unwilling to take advice from an FBI far more experienced in questioning perpetrators, and under intense pressure from the White House to “do anything” to forestall another attack. Their actions, however, threw the rest of the CIA under the bus. They sullied America’s reputation; they sullied the CIA’s reputation, and eclipsed the useful work it does every day. Therein lies the tragedy.”
1947 Gouverneur (Gouv) Cadwallader writes, “I have attended Alumni Weekend every five years since graduating. From now on, I expect to be there Saturday for each Alumni Weekend until no longer physically able. I think I have a fair chance of being the last man standing from the class of 1947. All four of my grandparents made it into their 90s without any noticeable dementia. I am hoping to make it to 100 in 2030. The first three years after Haverford
College in Haverford PA, I worked for an Air Force Think Tank which was planning for a third world war using manned bombers and nuclear weapons. Also in a think tank, one of my early jobs was to create off the shelf software. This resulted in my college mathematics being hard wired in my brain for the rest of my life. One of my current hobbies is writing mathematics software. Nothing really useful: torus geodesics (shortest distance curves), magic squares, fractal graphics, whatever. Due to various jobs I was able to travel extensively on an expense account, mostly in the United States. I did get to Europe quite a few times, once spending about twelve months over a fifteenmonth period in Belgium working at NATO. Recently, I married my best friend and life partner after being with her for roughly thirty-five years. She figures to outlive me and will collect my social security now that we are married. We have given up tennis and might give up golf after a few rounds this spring. She is small, but has athletic skills as well as intelligence (was an accountant). She once won an All Philadelphia Women’s bowling championship. We play serious duplicate (tournament-style) bridge.”
1948 George M. Stephens Jr writes, “I have just finished a musical memoir, it is ‘a lighthearted memoir on the pleasures and frustrations of an amateur classical musician.’ It reads easily and quickly. If anyone wants a copy, send an email to george@stephens. net, and I will email it to you.”
1949 Joan Dixon Williams writes, “Very happy to report that I have moved into very wonderful new quarters at Wood River Village in Bensalem PA. This address affords me close proximity to beloved George School, and hopefully the opportunity to participate in activities and events.”
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1945: Elysian Hills Tree Farm, the recently sold property of Mary Lou Johnston Schmidt ’45 in southern Vermont.
1953: John C. Raushenbush ’53 with his wife and their six grandchildren upon
1947: Gouverneur (Gouv) Cadwallader ’47 shares a picture from his reunion in 2011.
1953: Donald A. Frey ’53 with his wife and their two daughters.
completion of their eighth international bike tour in France.
1954: Members of the Class of 1954 who returned for their 60th reunion. Picture taken by E. David Luria ’54.
1955: Rosalie Rothman Weiss ’55 in New Hope PA in October 2014.
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1951 Barbara Hood Pusey writes, “Thought you all might like to see and listen to the video of my granddaughter, Jessie P. Mooberry ’10, as she talks about the impact of nonviolence on national security. http:// defenseentrepreneurs.org/jessiemooberry-def2014.”
1952 William (Bill) M. Quigg writes, “This was an exhilarating, then a down year. My wife of fifty-two years suffered a fatal stroke in July 2014 while we were vacationing with our daughter Lesley in Whitefish MT. She was a ‘Life is Good’ partner and is sorely missed. One of the highlights of her life and our family occurred in April when she threw out the first pitch for a game celebrating the 100th anniversary of the first game played in Wrigley Field in Chicago IL. It was called Weegham Park at the time. Charles Weegham was her great-uncle and built the park in 1914. He had purchased the Chicago Federals and needed a park to play in so he built the park in six weeks at Clark and Addison Streets. The Federal League folded in 1915 so he bought the Cubs and brought them to the field. He owned the Cubs until 1919 when he sold the team to the Wrigley family. Sue used the baseball that her grandmother had thrown out for the first Cubs game in the park in 1916. If you go to YouTube and search: ‘Sue Quigg Chicago Cubs 100th anniversary game,’ you can see the pitch—she threw a strike. Another highlight of the year was going on our ninth, eight-day rafting trip down the Colorado River. Through the years we have managed to take our three daughters and ten grandchildren on the trip.”
1953 Donald A. Frey writes, “When I came to Istanbul in 1965 to teach physics, I never realized I would settle in Turkey for the next fifty years. This was mostly due to a serendipitous meeting with a Turkish diver at a New Year’s Eve party who told me about
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an underwater archaeologist, George Bass, who was excavating a Roman shipwreck near Bodrum, Turkey. I joined him as a volunteer in 1969, moved to his Bodrum headquarters in 1972, and never got back to physics. After four decades of diving on ancient shipwrecks I’m now retired from field work. My Danish wife, Sanne, and I have four children—living in as many different countries with their offspring. So our travels have been focused on great family get-togethers, from the Greek islands next door, to London, England, and Brazil. I have retired in Bodrum and now every day is Saturday, although this year I’ve already given over forty tours of the Museum of Underwater Archaeology (in a Crusader castle) and always seem to be busy! Anyone interested in our Bodrum lives might watch the short film Serendipitous/ Kismetli Bodrum at www.youtube. com/watch?v=jItMcZJ7gWs.” John C. Raushenbush writes, “Marcia and I completed our eighth international bike tour in France in August (see photo with six of our grandchildren). The hills don’t get easier! Life focuses on reading, writing about three to five hours daily, music, staying fit, and family.” Toni Schragger Segal writes, “I am living right in the heart of Princeton NJ. Classmates, please give a call if you are in town. My number is in the phone book under the name Stephen Segal.”
1954 Peter (Pete) D. Glusker writes, “Semi-retired but still on call to our local emergency department and hospital for neurologic and sleep disorders. I was just elected to a volunteer four-year position on the board of our local district hospital in Fort Bragg CA. Some trepidation here, but a very worthwhile goal to work at, because we are so remote. Wish me luck!” E. David Luria writes, “We had a wonderful 60th class reunion at George School last May, many thanks
to the GS staff that helped us with all of the preparations. Our reunion this year included a tour of the new gym facilities, towards which we have contributed, a photo safari in which Dear Leader (that’s me) taught his classmates how to take better pictures, and a leisurely dinner at which each of us were able to talk about our life stories since graduation. It is always a pleasure to see how far the school has progressed since our graduation, overcoming the wave of destruction perpetrated by SOME of my classmates in 1954 who installed illegal all-night lights and room-toroom telecommunication systems in the dorms or flipped wads of butter onto the dining room ceilings with their table napkins. Due to political apathy, my classmates failed once again to unseat their Class President for Life from his undeserved position of power and so here I am, still on the soapbox, urging my classmates to continue their support to the cause we all love: George School!” Jean Lindsay de Streel writes, “So sorry I couldn’t make it to our reunion at the last minute. I keep very busy looking after my 1840s, but may be older, tiny house, which overlooks the Lehigh and Delaware Rivers in Easton PA. My two gordon setters, Niall and Tansy, provide daily exercise for me. We still do various dog sports. I also try doing the long form of Tai Chi. My daughter Margaret continues as a World News editor for the Wall Street Journal. Son Giles is a systems administrator at Penn State in State College PA. He lives in Centre County PA with wife Nancy and adopted son, Carter (8). I enjoy various art museums from New York City to Morristown NJ, and Philadelphia with local friends. I have many fond memories of George School.”
1955 Richard (Clem) B. Clement writes, “I dearly love the work I do at the National Christmas Tree Railroad under the National Christmas Tree in President’s Park in front of the White House in Washington DC. As the
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1956: Briant H. Lee ’56 performing as a clown with his local Shriners International Clown Unit.
1956: Alice Kent Stephens ’56 having fun with her extended family. Alice is seated on the far right.
1955: Richard (Dick) B. Clement ’55 maintaining the railroad tracks at the National Christmas Tree Railroad under the National Christmas Tree in President’s Park, Washington DC.
1956: Anne Starr Lyons ’56 gathered with fellow classmates Joan Russell Brackbill ’56, Marion (Fuff) Sheeran Markham ’56, Mary Kenderdine Powell ’56, and Judith (J.C.) Vaughn West ’56 at George School in September 2014.
1958: Miriam Zeman Marecek’s ’58 memoir Escape from Prague: Composing a New Life in America.
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President lights the National Tree, our trains are happily running underneath. The tree is covered with a mesh of LED lights supported by a tall center pole. Small trees representing the fifty states, five territories, and DC surround the area and are adorned with decorations designed by kids from their sponsoring areas. Visitors love to chat with us and have lots of questions. We are ‘train people’ and to them, we have answers for everything. Did I mention how much I enjoy this activity? With the ambiance of the scene, powerful as it is, the stresses of the day seem to melt away as we play trains. It really is something to behold. From our little spot in President’s Park, a couple of thousand yards away, sits the man in the White House making decisions affecting the world and the Washington Monument watches over us. I marvel at the national constitution, power, and arrangements that made this all possible and so successful. Golly, this is what freedom is all about. During Hanukkah the menorah stands nearby as well. Santa is in his workshop daily and many nights musical events occur on scene. This Christmas season, I had duty four times at the National Christmas Tree. For many visitors, coming to see the trains is a Christmas morning tradition. In the end, it was sad to close up the wonderful event for another year. I can’t wait for next year. www.nctrr. com.” Richard I. Grausman writes, “I am very proud of my daughter, Jennifer, who co-directed and produced a fascinating film about the art forger, Mark Landis. Art and Craft, was shortlisted for the Academy Awards but was not nominated. Don’t let that stop you from watching it on demand via Time Warner or downloading from iTunes, Amazon, and many other sites. It is a fascinating film and for all of you who watched her first Emmy-nominated documentary, Pressure Cooker, you will love this one just as much. In March, we held our C-CAP (Careers through Culinary Arts Program) benefit and celebrated
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our twenty-fifth anniversary. Over the years we have awarded over forty-three million dollars in scholarships for at-risk students to go on to college and into the food service and hospitality industry. Many are now sous chefs and executive chefs, and a few also own their own restaurants. The following video from 2003 may give you a better understanding of what we do. www.youtube.com/ watch?v=ep6RCm2ObKA.” Charles (Charlie) M. Mansbach II writes “After a devastating illness involving my lungs and bone infections, I am thankfully back at work and enjoying every minute. We are near solving just one of life’s great mysteries—that of how the body absorbs fat.” Rosalie Rothman Weiss writes, “Living in Bradenton FL next to Sarasota. I volunteer at several of the museums. Is there anybody from GS Class of 1955 around here? I expect to come to our reunion.”
Anne Starr Lyons writes, “Five gals from the Class of ’56 hold minireunions when we can. This past September Joan Russell Brackbill, Marion (Fuff ) Sheeran Markham, Mary Kenderdine Powell, Judith ( J.C.) Vaughn West, and I met in Newtown PA for three days. We descended upon George School on a sunny morning and received a private tour of the Mollie Dodd Anderson Library and new Fitness and Athletics Center— both MOST IMPRESSIVE.” Deborah Janney O’Keefe writes, “I’ve sold my big old farmhouse, moved to a four-room apartment with a balcony in the excellent Quaker retirement community Kendal On Hudson in Sleepy Hollow NY. I’m delighted to be next to the river and a lovely state park, and free of the dilapidated, cluttered, though lovable house.”
Mary Waddington writes, “I have not yet experienced retirement. I closed my alternative medicine practice a year ago because of health challenges from my incurable autoimmune diseases and the side effects of four years of steroid treatment. I now have more time for my photography. Currently I’m teamed with an audiographer and we produce short documentaries for public television, the Internet, and other storytelling venues. My brother William (Bill) Waddington III ’54 suffered a massive brain bleed last March that left him physically and mentally impaired. He is now in a nursing home in Connecticut under the guardianship of his son Michael (Mike) D. Waddington ’96. I’m counting on a huge turnout for our 60th reunion in May.”
Alice Kent Stephens writes, “My three sons are well and their families are still intact. They live quite close now, and Brodie, my eldest, has been living here for a bit. I am still having troubles with my legs and do fall a lot, and he has been here and able to take me to the hospital a couple of times. Now I am better. My Pop went blind before he died, but with all of the new technology, I am getting shots in my eye and can still read and sing. Monty, my middle son, is the father of two glamorous teens, and a great kid. Brodie has children ranging from teens to twenty-five and is full of life. Geordie, my youngest, has lovely middle school girls. I hope all is well with my George School family. I tried to get in touch with Mario Capecchi as Brodie’s youngest is an incredibly bright science guy, and I was so impressed with Mario and his special award at the White House for his research.”
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Briant H. Lee writes, “Performing occasionally as a clown with the local Shriners International Clown Unit.”
Harry B. Danner II writes, “As a follow up to my note in the December Georgian, I wanted to spread the word about a filmed interview of Thomas
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Y. Huf. The clip is pure Tom Huf— the face, vocal delivery, and physicality —of a truly unique guy. It will bring a smile to the face of all who remember him. Google search for: “Thomas Huf Bobcat” and then, click on first item; “The Cessna T-50 Bobcat-You Tube,” and there he will be.” Edwin (Ed) M. Youtz writes, “I am supplementing my meager social security check by teaching woodturning and selling turned wood at craft shows. You can take a tour of my craft booth at edyoutz.com.”
1958 Prudence (Pru) Craig Ingerman writes, “I retired from sixteen years of teaching English to international students at Juniata College in Huntingdon PA, but am frantically busy now writing and illustrating. My memoir entitled Adventures with Prudence is with my agent and is fiftytwo chapters with 118 illustrations. I also just finished a guide that is sixty pages with thirty illustrations entitled Celebrate Me: A Practical Guide for Home Caregivers. I am currently working on a profusely illustrated instruction book for timid knitters entitled Desert Island Knitting. I just had all of my forty-one original songs re-mastered on three CDs. I am wonderfully busy and happy, creating English curriculum for a school where I volunteer for two months each year in Guatemala. I also go to Ecuador to do a teacher training certificate course through Penn State for six weeks every summer.” Miriam Zeman Marecek writes, “With the help of my son and designer, Tomas M. Zeman ’99, I finally finished my memoir called Escape from Prague: Composing a New Life in America. It would take many pages to thank those of you who helped me put this magnum opus together, especially Bonnie Dinsmore Kerrick, who started it all. It is available on Amazon and I hope as an ebook soon. Thank you all for your kindness and your treasured visits.”
1959 Robert (Bob) B. Dockhorn writes, “Part of my free time in retirement has been consumed in writing down my experiences. As I write, I reconsider my life’s choices. The chapter on the George School years, 1955-59, has been a particular pleasure to record. So far this chapter totals thirty-one pages and about 19,000 words. The most striking part was my participation in the 1959 affiliation work camp in Germany, which transformed the path of my life.” Amei M. Wallach writes “At George School, Mrs. Robinson and Frau Blaschke encouraged me to write. After a life in journalism writing about art, I began making films on artists, starting with Louise Bourgeois: The Spider, The Mistress and The Tangerine. This spring, following an international theatrical run, my film on Soviet-born artists, Ilya and Emilia Kabakov: Enter Here, comes out on DVD and streaming over YouTube.”
1963 John S. Ambler writes, “I spent 2014 working in Frankfurt, Germany and London, England. It was great fun. Now I look forward to enjoying Hilton Head SC.” Edward (Eddie) T. Fei writes, “I am still hanging in there at work for the US government. I lead a small team that does international nuclear forensics cooperation. We use our national laboratories to work with foreign laboratories and international organizations to help build nuclear forensic capabilities around the world. These capabilities help to detect and deter nuclear smuggling and other illegal actions. I’ve got two grandkids and look forward to spending more time with them when they are old enough to play sports! I’m playing tennis and swing dancing four or five times a week, which means I hear a lot of live bands. If you want information about live blues and swing music in DC, let me know!”
Robert (Bob) W. Thomas writes, “After almost twenty-nine years together, Robert Black and I were married in July 2014, after Pennsylvania finally recognized same-sex marriage. Unfortunately Robert fought a very rare and serious illness most of this year. After months we chose to stop treatments and have him come home with me and his beloved dogs, where he died with us around him in December. Many of you remember him at our reunions and have been in touch with me after his death. I hope I will still be hosting at our 55th.”
1964 Judith ( Judy) McIlvain Lewis writes, “We enjoyed my 50th reunion at GS in May 2014 and my husband’s 50th in September at Xenia High in Ohio. We are in our fifth year living in Bradenton FL and loving every minute of the Florida sunshine and retirement.” Kathryn McCreary writes, “I continue to be grateful for my good fortune. As a retired person, I have more freedom than I have ever had to pursue my interests. Writing is my primary activity these days, but I have also begun to relearn the little German I had acquired in high school. Poor Herr Braun was patient with me, but I clearly had only the slimmest knowledge of the language, and now I am curious to see how far I can go. Bertolt Brecht, I’m coming!” Douglas (Doug) P. Smith writes, “Charles (Chuck) A. Wilson, Walter ( Walt) H. Daub III, and I met at Walt’s place in Prescott AZ last fall. A great time was had by all.” Margo Vitarelli writes, “I fondly think back to my GS experience and my classmates. It’s an indelible memory, clear in my mind. Even though we rarely see each other, I think of you often. Some of us are retired and pursuing interests, traveling, being creative; others of us, like me, are still working; many are grandparents— going through the constant changes
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1964: 1964: Charles (Chuck) A. Wilson ’64, Walter (Walt) H. Daub III ’64,
1964: Judith (Judy) McIlvain Lewis ’64 and Donovan Lewis’s
and Douglas (Doug) P. Smith ’64 at Walt’s place in Prescott AZ.
forty-fourth wedding anniversary dinner in the Florida sunset overlooking the Gulf.
1965: Virginia (Ginny) W. Walden ’65 in her art gallery. 1965: William (Bill) G. Barton ’65 with son Will at a summit of the Inca Trail in Peru.
1967: A quilt made recently by Karen B. Garrison ’67.
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1964: Margo Vitarelli ’64 showing off one of her recent prints, a silk screen of the endangered parrot fish at an exhibit at the Honolulu Museum of Art in Honolulu HI.
1967: Steven (Steve) E. Sweitzer ’67 after completing the “Hilly 100,” a one hundred mile bicycle race.
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in our lives. I wish you all a great year. Remember, we are in the front line of the boomers! Yea! Aloha.”
1965 William (Bill) G. Barton writes, “Happy to report that I kicked off the New Year by completing a four-day trek on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in Peru. It is likely the hardest physical feat I’ve ever taken on. My son Will was a hero. Two of three passes were over fourteen thousand feet. Coca leaves were a staple.” Virginia (Ginny) W. Walden writes, “I am enjoying running my art gallery in Waimanalo, HI creating art, writing books, giving astrology readings, and teaching Qigong. The event of 2014 was that I discovered that I am an artistic medium! My paintings and drawings depict ancient Sumerian stories and Egyptian pyramids, and Viking soul memories as well as Native American spirits. I am researching online to validate this information to present my discoveries on a video and am considering writing a sci-fi novel with all the facts. Most curious is that I found the Crux constellation, upside down, in two paintings, with the secondary stars in place! When painting this eight years ago, I just flicked a toothbrush and thought I was making random stars. My life is full of wonder! Happy Aloha to all in 2015.”
1967 Laurie Rendall Coursin writes, “I’m sitting in my newly built energy efficient Bensonwood/Unity home watching the snow fall. It has been a very busy year selling my house in Gilsum NH where I lived for almost fourteen years. At the same time, I was making decisions about the house I was having built, and getting ready to retire. I finished my career of thirty-nine years working as a certified nurse midwife (the last thirteen at Dartmouth Hitchcock in Keene NH which I hated to leave). But I wanted to leave at the top of my game rather than being asked to leave, so at sixtysix years old on January 1, I officially
retired and am on Medicare. I’m sitting by a cozy fire with my left leg elevated and iced as I had a spot surgically removed. No big deal but it’s the only thing that would slow me down enough to take the time to stop from unpacking and downsizing into my 1,200-square-foot house. I chose Putney VT, as I am active in the Quaker Meeting and can walk to town and the food co-op, post office, and meeting. My twenty-eight year old son, Owen, is at Antioch University New England in Keene NH, studying environmental studies. This was my first Christmas that he wasn’t here, as he and his girlfriend spent Christmas with her family in Indiana. So I started 2015 being retired and getting settled in Putney VT. I’d love to reconnect with old friends if anyone is traveling through Vermont. May the year 2015 find you all in good health and doing well on your journey.” Karen B. Garrison writes, “I’m excited to report that I retired a few days ago from Natural Resources Defense Council, where I had the good fortune to help create the first statewide network of ocean parks in the United States—Yosemite’s of the sea, as we like to call them—off California’s coast. After over a decade overcoming obstacles we couldn’t have dreamt up, they’re now designed and in effect, with a support system of local scuba divers, surfers, tide poolers and beach lovers. I treasured my job and my amazing colleagues, but I’m ready to take it easy, follow my curiosity, and who knows, maybe get really ambitious and catch up on New Yorkers. Retirement advice welcome.” Hugh P. Greeley writes, “My intrepid and absolutely wonderful wife Peggy and I are slowly moving in a new life direction. Work in the health care field continues to be both interesting and satisfying, however, forty plus years of airports, hotels, and car rentals are getting old. Adult children and grandchildren provide an exciting and at times exhausting alternative. Last summer we carved out some time and frequent flyer miles and
took in Paris, France with my younger brother and his wife, then biked along the Avenue Verte cycle route from the City of Lights to Old London Town over about five days. Our route followed the Seine to the coast through small villages and past unbelievably fantastic boulangeries. The bike paths and small lanes continued up long (and often steep) hills, past glorious vistas and through the magnificent French and English countryside. Sticky toffee pudding became a favorite desert. After many miles, we arrived in London, England where we visited our 104-year-old aunt, and a few English bakeries (not nearly as satisfying as those in France). After a short flight home we quickly settled back into our work chairing the board for the Volunteers in Medicine Institute which assists communities in establishing free clinics for the uninsured staffed by volunteer physicians and associated health care professionals. Peggy reunited with her horses and began planning a trail ride in the mountains of northern Arizona. With the world in such constant turmoil we are indeed fortunate to live in this fantastic country despite the comparatively minor disagreements that seem to dominate what passes for the news.” Faith Mason writes, “Those GS years seem to be another lifetime. 2014 was a big year. We got a new puppy, Abby, who looks like a cross between a dalmatian and a dingo, the most affectionate dog ever. High energy! Our youngest, Robin, graduated from Stanford’s physician assistant program, met the love of her life, and now works full time as a physician assistant. Our oldest, Ensley, married the love of her life in June and I was the officiant. Our middle one, Erik, does all manner of graphics and web work for the county department of education. Our grandson, Evan, is now 8, going on 16, sharp but flits from thing to thing and is addicted to Minecraft. In July I went to Berlin, Germany, for the second conference of the International Society for Psychology as the Discipline of
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Interiority (ispdi.org). I also treated myself to three days in Oslo, Norway on the way back; I had been in Norway once before and left a piece of my heart there; yup, it’s still there. I’ve been teaching developmental psychology at our local community college and am active in the Guild for Psychological Studies, based in San Francisco CA (www.guildsf.org). In 2004 I married the love of my life, Ann, in British Columbia. With the fall of DOMA (Defense of Marriage Act), our marriage was suddenly recognized by the IRS, retroactively, which has resulted in some amended tax returns that will make a longhoped-for trip to Paris possible this spring. In the last year or two I have had the happiness of reconnecting with John D. Streetz (ffac) and Connie Sigler Gardner (ffac), two of my most influential teachers
at GS, not just in the classroom but who they were/are as people. One could say I am part of the tiny house movement I live most of the time in a 360-square-foot park model trailer in Trinidad CA. Two of my three children live nearby, including my grandchild. We also have a house in Trinity Center CA, about three hours east of here, in the Trinity Alps. We go there for vacations or holidays, and rent it out in the summer. For fun and relaxation, I like to quilt and knit and walk in the many parks nearby. I certainly plan to be at our reunion in 2017!” S. David (Dave) Miller writes, “Two years into retirement, and I can’t believe that I ever worked. On a schedule, of course: gym, library, lunch, errands, and then its five o’clock somewhere. I have done a lot
of work on our house and all I can say is it isn’t like it appears on HGTV. We redid the kitchen, I added eight weeks and twenty five thousand dollars, and I was not far off. I have taken senior courses at Clemson University. I garden and landscape, and spend time with my mother, whom we moved across the street. I can only add that I have survived the sadomasochism of rooting for the Cleveland Browns. After fifty years in food distribution, I have become re-acquainted with my wife, have fun, and have been reprogrammed to feel like a human being. Still learning to relax and not worry, everything does not have to be perfect, but those are worthy 2015 goals. You’ll never, ever know how much it has meant to me to be re-acquainted with so many people via social media. It was a rainy Saturday and I finally had no excuse not to go into the cellar
THANK YOU FOR “STICKING” WITH US! Welcome to the newest members of the Sticky Bun Society.
Kareem O. Afzal ’93 and Nihad Kaiseruddin David Bourque and Constance Hancock Bourque ’76 Erica M. Brinton ’66 Antonia M. Burdick ’14 Thomas and Karen Buroojy Sara R. Cohen ’14 Joseph and Patricia Coscia Keith Figlioli-Gittelman ’89 Faith I. Gentilucci ’14
Reed Goossen Aidan L. Greer ’14 Matthew and Betsie Haar Gene Billo Haddon ’50 Peter Halbert and Jill Stokes Halbert ’59 Tanya A. Hoke ’03 Faith Karaffa ’14 Jody Lisberger ’71 Fred and Ruth Obear Brianna N. Robinson ’04
Susan Grubb Roegiers ’54 Mary D. Smith Eileen Thompson ’54 Jevon W. ’97 and Charlotte N. Thoresen George A. Thurlow ’14 Blake and Marion T. Wells Charles and Marcella Williams Eric R. Wolarsky and Julia B. Nickles ’03
Sticky Bun Society membership is attained when a person has made gifts to George School for ten consecutive years or every year since graduating from George School. The individuals listed above are those who became members between October 20, 2014 and January 29, 2015. A complete list of Sticky Bun Society members can be found online at georgeschool.org/stickybun.
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and throw things out—and there it was, all my grades, etc. from GS. After reading I was reminded why my father used to call me ‘Dave Mule’—an epithet well deserved. So, I hope everyone can forgive my transgressions from years ago.” Susan (Sue) Deitz Milmoe writes, “Madeline (Sue) Moore and I met at George School in 1964 and we decided to celebrate our fiftyyear friendship with a wilderness trip through Alaska for two weeks last September. We had a wonderful time catching up with each other while reliving our youth. We are both retired now. Madeline lives in Maine, I’m living in New York City and we’re both looking forward to our 50th reunion celebration at GS in just a few more years!” Linda Morgandale writes, “I continue to work in Information Technology, learning about servers and updates. I had been on the software side before, so working with servers and hardware is interesting. I sold my home and moved into a retirement community in Fort Washington PA close to all things familiar. I have my pets with me, one of the reasons why I chose it. I do spend much of my day driving from home to work listening to NPR for news of the world. Days like today, with the snow-covered roads, make me think that retirement is sooner than later. At least we can use a website to apply for Social Security.” Robert (Bob) Sullivan writes, “Modern technology changes things, but that doesn’t mean that things are better. I’m a news junkie and spend too much time following the latest political fight or world horror. I miss the days in Drayton when we couldn’t watch TV (now the Internet) and a bull session was just that rather than a ‘panel of experts’ broadcast to the world. Drayton as well as Main and maybe Orton have solved the world’s problems many times over. 2014 saw me sell my house and move into a condo since my kids have moved out.
I’m still in Alexandria VA, as are my kids. My daughter teaches at The Lab School in Washington DC which specializes in students with learning disabilities and my son is studying Urban Planning in graduate school. I filed for Medicare in April and started playing softball the same month. I haven’t played competitive organized sports since GS and have never played so much. The season runs from April through October with two double headers each week. Its little league for old people except without the adult supervision. It was sad to start playing and realize that I couldn’t throw a ball the sixty-five feet between first and second base. Of course getting out of bed the day after a double header was hard but by the end of the season the pain was limited to my feet. I’m following Jimmy Buffet’s advice of growing old not up. Best wishes to all in the class.” Steven (Steve) E. Sweitzer writes, “2014 was a ‘comeback’ year for me. As some of you know, the last couple of years have been physically challenging with back surgery and as I was recovering from that, I was hit by a car while bicycling and spent two weeks in the hospital. I came out of it with only half of my calf muscle and a leg brace for my drop foot, but I got to keep my leg, which was in question for a while. During the summer of 2013 I had a hip replaced. To be honest, during all this, I wasn’t sure I’d ever be able to ride a bike again but by the end of my hip rehab, I was determined to give it a try. After a slow start, I found I could ride. I bought a new road bike, installed a ‘ghost bike’ and set my sights on completing two, one-hundred-mile rides. It was great to have a goal and I was pleasantly surprised to find I could manage the rides and even finished the ‘Hilly 100’ without walking any hills and did it with my best time ever. Faith Mason reminded me that I too reconnected with Connie Sigler Gardner (ffac). She had a huge impact on my life, encouraging me to try my hand at writing even though I’m a terrible speller. Last summer I
celebrated my sixty-fifth birthday and have settled into a comfortable retirement schedule, teaching a couple journalism courses for Indiana University-Purdue University of Indianapolis and freelancing—shooting and editing video. As they say ‘life is good.’” Hannah Erb Tolles writes, “I am currently living in a Minneapolis suburb. We gradually moved west after college, starting in Columbus OH, then eighteen years in the Ann Arbor MI area, and the last twenty four in Edina MN. My career path has taken me into education, starting as a mental health worker, moving on to be a special education teacher, ending up tutoring struggling learners and training teachers to teach reading. I have been involved with the International Dyslexia Association, serving as a branch president, and then went on to help found a nonprofit devoted to training teachers. In the meantime, my husband Bob, a pain psychologist, and I have raised two daughters, both of whom live in California, far from the frozen tundra. One is an emergency medicine physician in Los Angeles and the other works on water and finance issues in city/county government in the San Jose area. The oldest was married two years ago but no grandchildren yet. We have been fortunate enough to be able to indulge in our love of travel, most recently bird watching in South Africa. Retirement beckons in California to be nearer our daughters (and warmer) and where we hope to have more time to hike, knit, read, garden, volunteer, and travel as long as health permits. This spring we are taking what we call the old folks tour, as opposed to the college tour, to look at retirement communities.”
1969 Lucy S. Judson writes, “Life continues to go well here. I am working part time as a physician assistant running a clinic for a manufacturing plant. We see both employees and spouses. Pretty sure I will retire at sixty-five, but the job is good and the hours are great. It allows me long
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weekends to go see grandchildren who are both in New Jersey and in California. My husband, Craig Yager, has been retired for eight years. I heard someone say once that ‘everyone should have a wife.’ And I do! Craig does the cooking, grocery shopping, and takes care of the house. What a deal. It was worth the wait. Any of you ever go through Boulder CO? Please let me know if you do.”
1970 Roger L. Kay writes, “Things are good heading into the final leg. First grandchild born this year. Granduncle is Warner ( Woody) I. Johnson. We have one kid still in the house, but only for a few more years. Our lives are mostly back, and we still enjoy keeping company. Boutique analyst firm in its tenth year, doing fine. Finally had an angel investment pay out. Autumn is harvest time.” Wendy L. Talbot writes, “Fortyfive years! Hard to believe. Please contact me or Beverly (Bev) Malabre Hendricks if you are coming to reunion in May. We need to plan for the big event.” Christoffer (Chris) A. Graae writes, “Lots of things to catch up on recently. We moved some years ago from our longtime residence in Washington DC, where we brought up both of our children, and into a renovated old farmhouse on the South River, near Annapolis MD, where it meets the bay. We love our life there (but not the commute). I am gradually selling my ownership in the company I co-founded thirty-three years ago to the next generation. This past spring I was named a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects. I am deep into the most challenging project of my career (maybe I will go out on this one)—the modernization of the renowned Duke Ellington School of the Arts in Georgetown, Washington DC. My daughter Hannah graduated with a dual law and master’s degree from Duke University in Durham NC. She—our second child—married a
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really wonderful guy in a beautiful wedding at Meridian House in DC. Hope that all are well and prospering and look forward to another visit to GS.”
1971 Susan (Susi) Woodman Hoskins writes “I was honored with a YWCA (Young Women’s Christian Association) Women of Excellence award this spring, recognizing my efforts toward the YWCA mission of eliminating racism and empowering women, particularly through my work as the executive director at the Princeton Senior Resource Center in Princeton NJ. I recently helped Princeton achieve distinction from the World Health Organization as an Age Friendly Community.” Tod J. Kaufman writes, “In the fall of 2014, I had the good fortune to attend the W.E.B. Du Bois Medal Ceremony at the Hutchins Center at Harvard University in Cambridge MA along with my daughter, Sophia, who is a freshman at Harvard. The Hutchins Center at Harvard is the combined W.E.B. Du Bois Research Institute and Center for African and African American Research. Receiving the Du Bois awards this year were the late poet Maya Angelou, singer Harry Belafonte, Oprah Winfrey, TV producer Shonda Rhimes, architect David Adjaye, presidential advisor Valerie Jarrett, congressman and civil rights leader John Lewis, Steve McQueen, director of the Oscarwinning movie 12 Years a Slave, and Hollywood movie producer Harvey Weinstein. My days of reading works by Gandhi and Dr. Martin Luther King at George School in Mr. Reed’s religion class and rooming with dear friend still today, Antonio ( Tony) P. Jackson, have come full circle.”
1973 Catherine (Kate) M. Fox writes, “Two kids (there’s a good chance they will turn out to be decent human beings), two dogs (always glad to see me when I get home), and a great job at the Wyoming Supreme Court.
Still healthy. And of course, plenty of rough spots in the last forty years.” Robin Kester Pat terson writes, “Had a great trip to France, England, and Scotland during the summer. Highlights included Giverny (home of Claude Monet), the Louvre, the Loire Valley (home of Leonardo DaVinci), London and the Inns of Court, and the Gleneagles golf course in Edinburgh, Scotland (yes, I got to play). Our tour of Parliament was hosted by MP (Member of Parliament) Lord Snape (just like Harry Potter). The year has ended on a sour note as I fell and fractured my hip requiring surgery. As I lay here in my hospital bed, I thank God, my family, and friends for all the love and care given to me. Life is still good but I have to slow down a bit.”
1974 Paul D. Hammer writes, “I’m having a wonderful life. I manage the Zipcar fleet in southern Connecticut and run a small bicycle-related social enterprise in New Haven CT. I helped to revive the American Friends Service Committee’s program in Connecticut and serve as the clerk of its Program Committee. I am active in community theater as a playwright, composer, lyricist, producer, director, and performer. I developed an interest in many of the things I was passionate about at George School. Thank you!”
1975 Katherine H. Alford writes “Greetings from NYC! Life is good. My husband Robert and I are empty nesters as our daughter Abigail is off at Smith College in Northampton MA, having graduated from Friends Seminary. My work continues to be very fun, tasty, and rewarding, running the culinary department for Food Network and Cooking Channel. I cherish the wonderful Quaker education and spirit life that I got at GS. My journey as a Friend continues as a member of Morningside Monthly Meeting in New York City. Wishing all the best, peace, and joy!”
ALUMNI TELL US
1970: Christoffer (Chris) A. Graae ’70.
1970: Roger L. Kay ’70, daughter Faith, and grandson Josef Willem at the Getty Museum in Los Angeles CA.
1971: Congressman John Lewis, Tod J. Kaufman ’71, and Harry Belefonte at W.E.B. Du Bois Medal Ceremony at the Hutchins Center at Harvard University in Cambridge MA.
1974: Paul D. Hammer ’74.
1971: Susan (Susi) Woodman Hoskins ’71.
1976: Lawrence M. Dansky ’76 with one of his old friends from Ashland OR.
1975: New memoir, A Phoenix from the Abyss, A Life Such as This by Pamela (Pam) J. Holberton ’75.
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1980: View from home of Patti Reinhold-Ryan ’80 in Beach Haven NJ.
1983: Michael (Mike) L. Sherman ’83 finishing up a Spartan Race at Blue Mountain in the Poconos.
1982: Carolyn Powelson Campbell ’82 and husband, Tom, hiking in Scotland.
1986: Two rare BMW motorcycles, an R67 and an R68, receive museum quality restorations at the workshop of Scott A. Sharpe ’86.
1990: Angela Gore Hutcheson ’90 and her family. 1993: Elijah (Lije) S. Dornstreich ’93 and Gennifer Miller Dornstreich ’99 joyfully welcomed their first child, daughter Miriam Rose Dornstreich.
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Terry A. Benczik writes, “My book, New Love Poems, was published at the end of 2013 and last year I enjoyed seeing old and new friends at book signings at Barnes & Noble in New Jersey and Fort Lauderdale FL. The book was published after I faced a serious health challenge and I am doing well and on the mend. Wishing all of my classmates a happy reunion!” Pamela (Pam) J. Holberton writes, “As the year closes, I have become a published author. My unique memoir entitled, A Phoenix from the Abyss, A Life Such as This, is now available for Kindle at Amazon.com and will be out shortly in paperback. It is ultimately the story of the triumph of my human spirit to succeed against the odds of having bipolar disorder. It is an epic poem of my epic journey illustrated by my original watercolors.”
1976 Lawrence M. Dansky writes, “Hi, everyone, I wanted to take this opportunity to send news of my move to Portland OR. I resided in the Rogue Valley (Ashland Medford) in Southern Oregon for most of the last thirty-two years. So far I love it here in Portland and am hoping to find improved care for my medical needs and also some great venues for my guitar and songs. I am on Facebook and if you are not my friend there already, simply request.”
1977 Abbe F. Fletman writes, “I was appointed to the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas, and have been sitting as a criminal trial judge since September 2014. I will be running for a ten-year term in 2015. Look for me on the ballot on May 2015, if you live in Philly. Or check out www.abbeforjudge.com.”
1978 Robin Klatzkin Bochner writes, “Since last summer I have been working at NYC Technology Development Corporation, a non-profit organization serving New York City and its
agencies. I am currently the technology systems program manager for New York City’s ‘Pre-K For All’ initiative (universal pre-kindergarten). I’m still living on Long Island NY with my husband Alan. My older son is currently a junior at Muhlenberg College in Allentown PA studying computer gaming and marketing, and my younger son is a sophomore in high school.”
1980 Pat ti Reinhold-Ryan writes, “I live in Beach Haven NJ with my son Jaxson (10), husband Joe, and dog Makai. I am a travel agent going on thirty-one years now. Wow! We lost our home to Hurricane Sandy, had to knock it down and rebuild a modular home. It was a year and a half of heartache but all good now. My George School friends helped my family in so many ways—financially and mentally. I am forever indebted to them and love you guys to the moon and back! Thank you, thank you, thank you.”
1982 Carolyn Powelson Campbell writes, “Last summer, my husband Tom and I went hiking in the Scottish Highlands for a week. In November, we traveled to Venice, Italy for the first time, and we went to Berlin, Germany to celebrate the twenty-five year anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall. In January 2015, Tom got a new job and we moved to Vienna VA. I’m still tutoring English online privately via Skype to several South Korean students, and working with elementary school students with their reading and writing. I’m in the process of renewing my Virginia teaching license so I can return to the elementary classroom. I hope to teach bilingual students in the local public schools.” Nanette (West) Moss-Lombardi writes, “Christopher (Chris) O. Branam, wrote a children’s book that his mother illustrated, called Rise of the Dough Boys. It’s gorgeous. It can be found here: www.riseofthedoughboys.com.”
1983 Michael (Mike) W. Baker writes, “Hi, to all of my classmates. I am relocating to South Beach in Miami FL and want to see if any of my classmates are going to be in the area. If so, drop me a line. Hi also to Ian Root, Russel (Rust y) S. Weiss, Trent Gray, and everyone else.” Michael (Mike) L. Sherman writes, “Hey guys, lots going on. Just hit the big 50 in November. Received my insurance broker license last year. I’m helping seniors navigate the transition into the Medicare system. It’s complicated but with the right guidance, people can make an important informed decision about their health insurance as they enter into this next phase of life. My son Adam (22) and I completed our second Spartan Race, running up and down Blue Mountain in the Poconos this summer. I’m sorry to have just missed seeing David (Dave) L. Cadwallader run it as well that same day. Check out the photo on page 42. Do I look tired at the end of the race? It was brutal! Already signed up for next year.”
1986 Rudy Berk writes, “I was listening to the Police this morning, and thought of J. Christian (Chris) Stevens (and his senior quote). Otherwise, have pretty much been in my own world lately. My older daughter is just getting ready to start auditioning at a few colleges—as a potential clarinet performance major. It’s a very interesting process, and we’re all pretty fired up for it. Otherwise, thought this would be a good opportunity to say hello to everyone, and I can’t wait to reconnect at Alumni Weekend in 2016.” Scot t A. Sharpe writes, “Hello, Friends! I quit my job as chief technology officer of a financial services company in 2012 and decided to pursue my dream of owning a motorcycle shop. I’ve been in paradise for the past two years restoring vintage and historic motorcycles in my own workshop! This year will see us move
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into a larger workshop and hire two additional employees. If you are in San Jose CA, please feel free to stop by and say hi.”
1990 Angela Gore Hutcheson writes, “The past year has been a whirlwind for us. We moved and we welcomed our daughter, Ellie, so we are now a family of five. Joshua and Justin are enjoying being big brothers. Kelby and I are still in practice in Greenville SC. I love the upstate and would love to hear from friends!”
1993 Elijah (Lije) S. Dornstreich writes, “Gennifer Miller Dornstreich ’99 and I joyfully welcomed our first child, daughter Miriam Rose Dornstreich, in April 2014. Miriam has proudly dolled up in the clothing generously delivered by Charles (Chas) E. Sanders and Maria Bockman Sanders, who have two daughters of their own, who outgrew all of their stylish baby clothes.”
1994 Kri Anderson Burkander writes, “I finished my doctoral program this summer, earning a PhD in educational policy from Michigan State University in East Lansing MI. My dissertation was a mixed-method study of the transition from high school to college for low-income rural and urban students, especially those who are the first in their family to attend college. I am now working in the Center for Validity Research at Educational Testing Service in Princeton NJ, and as an adjunct professor at Rowan University in Glassboro NJ. The 20th reunion was a blast, and I can’t wait to see everyone at the 25th!”
1996 Jason A. Sircely writes, “After a couple years in Colorado as a postdoctoral fellow, I am moving to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, for the next few years to continue my research on climate and management impacts on grazing lands with the International
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Livestock Research Institute, based in Nairobi. Any GS’ers passing through Ethiopia or Kenya are most welcome!”
1998 Ama K. Karikari writes, “Hello, fellow George School alumni! I’m delighted to announce the publication of my first book! The creation fable is entitled Sunne’s Gift: How Sunne Overcame Bullying to Reclaim God’s Gift. Sunne is a magical being or ‘magbee.’ God imbues Sunne with the power of the sun. Sunne’s straight-haired siblings, Earthe, Watre, and Winde have unique powers of their own. When Sunne is teased and bullied by siblings because of Sunne’s natural, kinky, curly, ‘nappy,’ and spirally Afrotextured hair, Sunne desperately tries to change. Sunne learns that there is beauty and power in difference. I raised funds through Kickstarter to fund the initial publication of the book and many people from George School helped fund the project. Thanks so much. I use the book in my student workshops on bullying prevention and my teacher workshops on culturally responsive education. Additionally, I recently moved from Brooklyn NY to Long Island NY. My husband, two sons, and I are really enjoying the fresh air and space.”
1999 James C. Kingham writes, “Hello, GS friends! I’m happy to share the news that my wife, Lauren, and I welcomed Eleanor “Nora” Chrystie Kingham to the world in November 2014. Nora is a healthy and happy baby who enjoys eating, sleeping during the day, and keeping us up at night.” Evonna Dunn Bruner writes, “Hi, everyone! I have been missing GS, but have had the opportunity to reconnect with some alumni and faculty here in Atlanta GA. Rachel M. Williams (staff ) came to visit one of the schools where I teach (the Ron Clark Academy), but as crazy as it sounds, I had no clue that Rachel was coming. It was a surprise to walk into the school and see a familiar face. We were both like two school girls
laughing and carrying on! Since leaving GS, I have had quite the life. I started off teaching after graduating from college in 2003 and now run my own educational consulting business. I provide schools with professional development and coaching, and on the student side, I developed a study skills and note-taking course curriculum that I teach throughout the school year. I married in 2004 and have three children. My family and I had the opportunity to film an episode of Buying and Selling with The Property Brothers! It was awesome! The show aired in October 2014 on HGTV. But what was even more awesome was hosting a George School accepted student reception in my home three days after finishing filming. I was able to catch up with Rachel Williams (again) and Colette Weber (fac), and meet Christian K. Donovan ’95 (fstaff ), and Kevin Davis ’77 (fac).”
2000 Kristin A. Collier writes, “Excited to share that I got engaged to my boyfriend of five years, Jason Taddeo, in December 2014 in Baltimore MD. We have lived here since both of us finished our undergraduate careers. Our first date was at a local theater, Centerstage, where we saw It’s a Wonderful Life set in the style of a 1940s radio show. We returned to that theater in December to see the show again—the proposal happened after the performance once the audience cleared out and the production crew was kind enough to take a few photos of us on stage. We are both looking forward to the big day sometime late in 2015 around the Philadelphia area.” Elizabeth (Liz) S. Lewis writes, “I had a great first full semester as professor of Linguistics and Portuguese Language at the Federal University of the State of Rio de Janeiro and am absolutely loving working with my students here in Brazil. I’ve also just finished a course to become a certified Krav Maga (Israeli martial art of self-defense) instructor, and am looking forward to offering free
ALUMNI TELL US
self-defense classes to people who feel they might one day be physically threatened due to their sexuality and/ or gender identity.” Victoria Carvajal Titchenal writes, “I am enjoying life in Cincinnati OH as a current stay-at-home mom to my boys, Cole (4) and Derrick (1). Life is busy but fun and I look forward to catching up with classmates in May. I caught up with Kirsten J. Byers over the holidays in Philadelphia PA.”
David (Dave) W. Wright writes “My wife Kelsey and I welcomed our first child, Silas Jenks Wright in November 2014. Additionally, we have moved back to the area. I am now the pastor of the Calvary Presbyterian Church of Wyncote PA. We look forward to reuniting with all our beloved classmates, friends, and other new parents this May at our 15th reunion.”
2001 Jordan H. Kramer writes, “Our daughter Sybil Elizabeth Kramer, born in August 2014, is acclimating well to life in New York City. I am
working at Planned Parenthood as an associate director of finance and my wife, Marianne, has returned to work as a middle school teacher. We look forward to warmer months when we can nurture Sybil’s curiosity and desire to explore the city.” Kathryn (Katie) J. Spencer writes, “My husband and I are still in Portland OR and we made a human in February 2014! His name is Oliver and he is ridiculously cute (slightly less so at 2:00 a.m.). He has had the pleasure of hanging out with Jessica Spencer Pace ’99, Jessica A.
A special challenge match for young alumni
5:1 FOR THE CLASSES OF 1995 TO 2015
A George School family is offering a valuable challenge to all young alumni who make a first time gift to the Annual Fund this year. For each new gift of at least $5 and up to $500 the family will match your gift at the 5:1 ratio, which means:
Your $10 gift Your $25 gift Your $100 gift
+
$ 50 match $125 match $500 match
=
$60 $150 $600
FOR GEORGE SCHOOL
Please make your gift today so that these valuable dollars don’t slip away from George School. Thank you for your support! Send your gift in the enclosed envelope or make your gift online at georgeschool.org/donate.
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Collins, Sarah M. Dohle, Julia H. Shea, Jesse B. Hindle ’03, and Jessica ( Jessie) A. Duncan ’03. Is this kid lucky, or what?”
2002 Corey C. Spells writes, “I hope everyone is doing well. Work has relocated me to London, England so I am currently living across the pond. I have been travelling throughout Europe and continue to do so until they send me back to the States!”
2003 Meredith Meyer Grelli writes, “I had so much GS goodness this year—celebrating Sarah T. Chmielewski’s wedding with Jesse B. Hindle and Jessica ( Jessie) A. Duncan in Montreal, Canada, and catching up with Maame A. Boakye and Dana H. Jaffe in DC. I’m on the road quite a bit traveling and spreading the word of our craft distillery across the midAtlantic and hope to use it as an excuse to catch up with more friends!” Jonathan ( Jon) A. Katz writes, “In May 2014, I married Anjuli Kronheim, my partner of nine years whom I met at Ithaca College in Ithaca NY. We married in Bensalem PA, surrounded by family and friends. I currently work as the post-production supervisor on two sketch shows: Comedy Bang Bang and The Birthday Boys. Anjuli and I live in Santa Monica CA, where I am active in local politics as a delegate to the state Democratic Party and vice president of the local Democratic Club.” Alexandra (Alex) L. Klein writes, “2014 was an extremely busy and wonderful year! I finished my first year of law school at Washington and Lee University School of Law in Lexington VA and was admitted to the Law Review. I also completed a summer internship at a nonprofit law firm representing death row inmates after direct appeal. It was a remarkable experience and really confirmed my desire to focus my career in public service. My husband Robert and I
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were married in a beautiful outdoor ceremony in July 2014. Helen K. Vance served as my maid of honor. Robert and I welcomed our son, Dylan Robert Paul Montville, into the world in October. He was born on Dylan Thomas’s one-hundredth birthday, which I thought was appropriate, given he was named after him.” Jonathan ( Jon) R. Stot t writes, “My wife, Joanna, and I are excited to announce the birth of our first child, Charlotte Sophia Stott. Charlotte was born in November 2014 in Philadelphia PA. Everyone is healthy and feeling very blessed. Palmer Marinelli is Charlotte’s godfather.”
2004 Avery M. Blank writes, “Fast Company featured me in an article discussing the habits of successful women in their downtime, ‘What Successful Women Have Figured Out About Downtime’ at www.fastcompany.com/3040522/what-successfulwomen-have-figured-out-aboutdowntime.” Daniel (Dan) C. Suchenski writes, “Just finished my first year with the Governor of Delaware’s STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Council. The council, created by Governor Jack Markell, whose mission it is to increase knowledge of and interest in STEM futures, has launched an annual event called the Delaware STEM Educator Awards. This event, held at the Chase Center on the riverfront of downtown Wilmington DE, honored educators in the state for their innovative teaching styles and curriculum. Additionally, the council has partnered with Junior Achievement of Delaware and Dow to release a statewide professional STEM development campaign. Looking forward to 2015.”
2005 Marianna L. Bogucki writes, “Gabrielle N. West and I are excited to be planning our 10th reunion for May 8–10. We look forward to seeing everyone back at George School!”
2009 Olivia K. Burns writes, “After graduation from Loyola University New Orleans, BA in Economics in hand, I relocated to London, England. This past year, I completed an MA in political economy at King’s College London, finishing with high merit. This year was about immersing myself in academia, making incredible new friends, and sampling everything London has to offer (largely in the form of food). I love London so much that I’ve decided to stay, and will be starting a new job in January. I hope the rest of the Class of 2009 is doing well and thriving!” Former Faculty
Norm Tjossem, former GS history teacher and Harvard Graduate School of Education alumnus writes, “I was proud and delighted to see two of my students, Sara Wolf ’99 and Liz Grossman ’04 featured in the Winter 2015 issue of Harvard ED. Magazine in the article, ‘Around the World in 8 Pages.’ HGSE referred to them as ‘great examples of the work being done in the field of education by Harvard alumni in schools and districts, at non-profits and NGOs, as education entrepreneurs, and with government agencies.’ It is strong testimony to the impact of the IB program on GS graduates.” Class notes for this issue were received as of January 20, 2015. Class notes received by September 18, 2015 will be included in the next Georgian. The “Alumni Tell Us” and “In Memoriam” sections of the Georgian are shared online. If you do not want your name to be included in notes from others, please contact us at advancement@georgeschool.org or 215.579.6564. The views and opinions expressed in class notes do not necessarily represent those of the school. Notes submitted for publication might be edited due to space limitations and Georgian style guidelines.
ALUMNI TELL US
1996: Daughter of C. (Chris) Binyameen S. Friedberg ’96 proudly representing George School.
1998: Creation fable, Sunne’s Gift: How Sunne Overcame Bullying to Reclaim God’s Gift by Ama K. Karikari ’98.
1999: Evonna Dunn Bruner ’99 and her family at the big reveal on a recent episode of Buying and Selling with The Property Brothers.
2003: Jonathan (Jon) A. Katz ’03 married Anjuli Kronheim in Bensalem PA in May 2014.
2000: Kristin A. Collier ’00 after her engagement in December 2014 in Baltimore MD.
2000: Victoria Carvajal Titchenal ’00 and Kirsten J. Byers ’00 in Philadelphia PA in December 2014.
2004: Daniel (Dan) C. Suchenski ’04 at work with Governor Jack Markell and his STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Council, promoting interest in and knowledge of STEM futures.
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We’re counting on you. Every gift matters.
1in 5
If 1 out of every 5 alumni make a gift to the Annual Fund this year George School will reach 20 percent participation, sending a strong message that George School alumni care about the school and its future. We are confident that 5 out of 5 alumni believe in George School's important mission and its positive impact on the character and accomplishments of our alumni. Please be the 1 in 5 that makes a gift today, at any level, as a tangible expression of your support for George School. Thank you for your gift!
Be the 1 in 5. Make your gift today.
TAKE THE CHALLENGE GIVE ONLINE georgeschool.org/donate All credit cards are accepted (Visa, MasterCard, AMEX, and Discover).
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MAIL YOUR GIFT Use the remittance envelope enclosed in this issue.
CALL 215.579.6566 to make a gift over the telephone.
ALUMNI TELL US
In Memoriam EDITED BY TESSA BAILEY-FINDLEY Marion Baldwin Norris ’30 September 17, 2014 Marion, a resident of Rydal Park PA, was born in Newark NJ. She received a BA in Psychology from Mt. Holyoke College in South Hadley MA. Her interest in mental health led to a career as director of psychiatric social work at a New Jersey State Hospital. While there she earned an MBA from New York University’s Graduate School of Business Administration. During World War II, she joined the American Red Cross as assistant field director in charge of the American Red Cross building and program at the Fort Dix NJ Station Hospital. Upon her husband’s discharge from the service, they moved to Oreland PA. She was active in parent-teacher organizations, American Association of University Women (AAUW), and the Springfield League of Women Voters. She served as the second president of the Oreland Woman’s Club and president of the Mount Holyoke Club of Philadelphia from 1958-1960. After moving to Rydal PA and volunteering in local schools, Marion became interested in education and enrolled at Temple University in Philadelphia PA. She received a master’s degree in education, majoring in counseling. That led to seventeen years as a guidance counselor at Olney High School in Philadelphia PA. Widowed in 1973, she retired in 1978 and bought a house in Florida. A lover of the out-of-doors, she was outside every day tending to her fruit trees and treading the golf course. While in Florida, Marion joined others in forming a new branch of AAUW and was associated with AARP Tax Counseling for the elderly for more than ten years. She returned to Pennsylvania in 1994 to be closer to family and her old friends. Marion is survived by her daughter and son, Harbourne B. Norris ’62, in addition to four grandchildren and four greatgrandchildren.
Virginia Mellinger Steigelman ’34 April 13, 2014 Ginny was born at home, in a farmhouse on the Battle of Brandywine Revolutionary War battlefield, in West Chester PA. In 1942 she married an engineer who kept them moving until they settled in Austin TX in 1952. After relocating, they became members of the congregation of the First Presbyterian Church. Ginny freely gave her time to many services and organizations. Among other local organizations she was active in Laguna Gloria Guild, president of First Presbyterian Church Women’s Association, and over twenty-five years with the Brackenridge Hospital Auxilary in Austin TX including serving as its president. At Westminster Manor, which Ginny called home since 1988, she served on the Library, the Resident’s Association, and the Hospitality committees. She is survived by her sister, two sons, and a grandson. Elizabeth (Bettie) Brick Collier ’37 – former trustee January 22, 2015 Born in Crosswicks NJ, Bettie was a lifetime resident of the Crosswicks and Chesterfield NJ area. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Connecticut College in New London CT. With her husband, she established the G. William Collier Agency in Robbinsville NJ and was active with the company for over fifty years. Bettie was an active member and served as treasurer of the Crosswicks Monthly Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends for many years. She enjoyed spending the summer in Harvey Cedars NJ as well as living at the farm in Chesterfield Township. She was an avid tennis player and loved to play bridge. Bettie was devoted to her family and had a genuine affection for people and her friends. She was inspirational and touched the lives of many people. She will be greatly missed. Bettie is survived by two sons including John P. Collier ’76, four grandchildren, a great-granddaughter, as well as her sister, Margaret Brick Robjent ’38.
Kirk Roberts ’40 January 19, 2015 H. Peter Somers ’40 June 17, 2011 A native of Berlin Germany, Peter and his Quaker mother emigrated to the United States in 1936 to escape the Nazis. After graduating from George School, he earned a bachelor’s degree from Cornell College in Mount Vernon IA. During World War II, Peter served in army intelligence in Europe. After his discharge, he earned a master’s degree in economics from the University of Iowa in Iowa City IA, and graduated from Harvard Law School in Cambridge MA, where he was a member of the Harvard Law Review. He and his wife were married for fifty-five years. They were schoolmates in Berlin and met again when he was stationed there with the Army at the end of World War II. They married in 1947 and raised a family as well as horses, chickens, and rabbits in Willistown Township. Peter began his career with a law firm in Boston MA before joining Morgan, Lewis & Bockius in Philadelphia PA in 1956. He became a senior partner, chaired the firm’s personal-law section, and served on its management committee, retiring in 1989. For fifty years, Peter was a member of the Radnor Hunt Club and was still riding to the hounds with the Cheshire Hunt at eighty-seven. He also enjoyed gardening and grew enough vegetables to share with friends and family. Peter was one of the founders of the Willistown Conservation Trust, a nonprofit land trust established in 1979 to protect 28,000 acres surrounding Willistown PA. He was also active with the Cheshire Hunt Conservancy in Unionville PA, which was established in the mid-1980s to preserve open space and keep land accessible for fox hunting. Peter, whose wife was an artist, was a longtime patron of the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. Peter is survived by four children including Stephen A. Somers ’69, his sister, and eight grandchildren.
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J. Augustus (Gus) Cadwallader Jr. ’40 January 1, 2015 Born in Yardley PA, Gus attended George School and The Loomis Chaffee School in Windsor CT. In college he attended Bucknell University in Lewisburg PA and Penn State University in State College PA where he was a member of the Phi Kappa Psi fraternity. He joined the US Navy during World War II to become a pilot and did his pre-flight training at St. Olaf College in Northfield MN, where he met his wife, and flight training at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill NC. While in the Navy he played football under the coaching of Bear Bryant. Gus worked for twenty years for the Ralston Purina Company as the Minnesota district sales manager and over thirty years in real estate in Wayzata MN. He was a past president and dedicated Wayzata Rotarian, and a multiple recipient of the Rotary’s Paul Harris Fellow Award. Gus never wanted gifts and when asked he would say, “I want peace, love, and happiness—and the health to enjoy them all.” He lived his life with those words that are his legacy to his family. He is survived by his wife, four children, eight grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, his brother, T. Sidney Cadwallader ’32, and his sister, Laura Cadwallader Clappison ’41. Roger Ernst ’42 November 17, 2014 Born in New York City NY, Roger attended City and Country School, George School, Williams College in Williamstown MA, and the National War College in Washington DC. He served in the US Army in Berlin Germany, was officer in charge of the Marshall Plan for Austria and assistant director for NATO and assistant director for planning in the Office of Secretary of Defense. He started the Peace Corps in India, served as deputy director of the US Economic Assistance mission in Taiwan and Korea, and then served as director of USAID in Ethiopia and Thailand. He also was a fellow at the East-West Center in
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Hawaii, and taught at the University of South Florida in Tampa FL. A lifelong summer resident of Nantucket MA, Roger’s trademark red sail was as well-known in the harbor as his smile was on land. An exercise devotee, he ran 1,000 miles a year for twenty-five years. He loved travelling and dancing with his wife, to whom he proposed on the day they met. Roger is survived by his daughter Deborah Ernst Nicholson ’72, son David Ernst ’74, and four grandchildren. Doris Bye Ferm ’42 May 3, 2013 Doris’s humble yet determined leadership and quiet faith provided steadfast support and set an example of dedication and integrity. Raised a Quaker with a lifelong commitment to peacemaking, Doris had a profound spiritual experience of oneness with all creation. This became the guiding focus of her life: to live in respectful coexistence with all earth’s creatures, to seek harmony and justice in local communities, and to advocate for peace among people everywhere. Doris graduated from Swarthmore College in Swarthmore PA with honors, and earned an MS in geology from Penn State University in State College PA. Doris helped found the Columbia South Carolina Friends Meeting and was a charter member of the Columbia Audubon Society. She also served as editor of the Southern Appalachian Yearly Meeting and Association newsletter for several years. It was during this period that she began to change her life in accordance with her beliefs about earth. She became first a vegetarian, then vegan, redoubled her efforts to live simply, and began recycling long before it was common or convenient. In 1980, when she and her husband returned to Lexington KY, Doris became active in the Lexington Friends Meeting, in Ohio Valley Yearly Meeting, and as a board member of the Central Kentucky Council for Peace and Justice. She also helped found the Central Kentucky Fellowship of Reconciliation. Doris moved to Bellingham WA after her husband’s
death in 1999, to be closer to her daughters. Peacemaking and the current environmental crisis became the focus of her activism. She volunteered at Northwest Ecosystem Alliance (now Conservation Northwest) for many years, becoming a valued part of the Bellingham office, and also was awarded the Lifetime Peacemaker Award in 2008 by the Whatcom Peace and Justice Center. Doris enjoyed gardening, corresponding with friends, giving gifts to her extended family and close friends, and caring for her beloved cat. She is survived by two daughters, two grandchildren, her sister, Florence Bye Satterthwait ’49, and numerous devoted nieces and nephews including Linda S. Harry-Orr ’69 and Cindy Harry Keene ’72. Stuart M. Palmer ’42 October 28, 2014 Jane Loud Hummer ’43 November 15, 2014 Jane is survived by three children, including John C. Hummer ’65 and Judith Hummer ’71. Isabelle Ewing McVaugh ’43 January 24, 2015 Isabelle was a resident of Medford Leas NJ, beloved wife and mother, and co-founder of the Arizona School Choice Trust. She was born in Abington PA and was the older sibling to three brothers. While attending George School, she met her future husband, John (Jack) E. McVaugh Jr ’42. After attending Wellesley College in Wellesley MA, she returned home to marry her high school sweetheart in 1945. The couple settled in Riverton NJ, where they raised three children and hosted many exchange students. Isabelle was very active in the local Quaker community including Westfield Friends Meeting. She was a dedicated wife and helped her husband with many projects. After residing in Arizona following her husband’s retirement, the couple worked tirelessly to establish Arizona School Choice Trust, one of the first nonprofit groups to use donations
IN MEMORIAM
and tax credits to provide education scholarships for low-income children to attend the school of their choice. Isabelle was also a dedicated summer resident of Barnegat Light NJ, where she and her husband had a home for many years. Their happy marriage lasted sixty-three years until Jack’s death in 2009. Isabelle is survived by her brother, John T. Ewing ’50, two children, three grandchildren, and one great-grandson. William (Bill) J. Hough Jr. ’44 October 13, 2014 Bill was born in Norristown PA and raised in Ambler PA. He was a member of Upper Dublin Meeting in Ambler PA. At George School he was on the soccer and tennis teams and was manager of the class yearbook. After graduation he served in the US Navy on the ammunition ship, Akutan. He graduated from Haverford College in Haverford PA in 1950 and the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia PA in 1955 where he studied architecture. He was a partner in the architectural firm of Harbeson Hough Livingston and Larson, also known as H2L2. He took his wife Jane and two young sons to Sweden to live for a year while he studied and practiced architecture. He was president of the Carpenters Company of Philadelphia, a member of the American Institute of Architecture (and served that group in various capacities) and active in Whitemarsh Township politics. During his career he participated in or was the lead on many large architectural projects including universities, hospitals, libraries, schools, research facilities, and restoration projects. Bill loved to sing and had a wonderful baritone voice. As a member of the Savoy Opera Company he performed as lead in five shows. He was always proud of the fact that he was able to sing Happy Birthday to the Queen of England. He was a member of the Union League Glee Club and as a member of the Mastersingers he sang with his wife Nancy. He loved the outdoors, especially cold weather and the solitude of nature. Along with his twin brother, and his classmate
Sandy Porter, he spent a full summer camping around the entire country out of the trunk of his father’s car. He was known for his charm and graciousness and a ready smile. Bill is survived by his five children: Lawrie K. Haasis, Ricarda S. Kupper, Eugene P. Hough ’77, T. Bradford Hough ’82, and William J. Hough III ’74, and his twin brother, Charles S. Hough ’44. Camille (Buz) Buzby Lamont ’44 January 12, 2015 Buz was born in San Juan Puerto Rico, where her parents had moved in the early twenties. After graduating from Middlebury College in Middlebury VT, she studied at the University of Geneva, Switzerland, where she met her future husband. Buz worked for the Girl Scouts of America for two years before her marriage. Her husband’s job took them to Washington DC, where Buz worked on Senator Kefauver’s staff. In 1961 they moved to their permanent home in Laurel Hollow, Long Island NY. Buz enjoyed summer vacations in North Haven ME, sailing, picnicking, and cruising the New England coastal waters and rivers with Ted in their blue trawler. For many years she organized a large tea for the North Haven yacht club. She was a good skier, tennis player, and an award-winning golfer; a new golf house at the North Haven golf club is named the Buz Barn in her honor. She served on the club’s board of directors where she organized activities for the younger players. Fluent in Spanish, she was active in her son’s election campaign for the Senate in Connecticut. She was an invaluable assistant to her husband’s authorship of several books. The center of Buz’s life was her devotion to her family and friends. She offered her gift of love and friendship widely, rarely forgetting a birthday, a Christmas present, or a phone call to a sick friend or just to say hello. Throughout her life she radiated an infinite kindness, generosity, and love. She leaves her husband, three children, and five grandchildren.
Betsy Thompson Turner ’45 December 11, 2014 Except for a few years in her early married life, Betsy was a resident of Kennett Square PA. She graduated from Sarah Lawrence College in Yonkers NY. Betsy and her husband were married at her parents’ home, Woodside Farm, in 1949. Betsy was a homemaker, gardener, and mother of four. She was a very tolerant mother who did not object to the occasional snake, turtle, or newt in the house, even those that escaped. She endured her children’s escapades, some of which required medical help or a visit to the hardware store for cleaning solvents. With such a busy home life it is no wonder she and her husband took refuge in travel, France being a favorite destination. Betsy played tennis with family and many friends whom she treated like family. Her Fourth of July parties were legendary. She was a very gracious lady and host. She is survived by four children, five grandchildren, and two (soon to be three) great-grandchildren. N. (Cody) Conant Webb ’45 November 9, 2013 Cody served in the US Army during World War II. In 1950, he graduated from Harvard College in Cambridge MA. He later graduated from Harvard Medical School, starting his long career in medical research. Cody is survived by his wife, two sons, two step-children, a brother, and twin grandsons. Shirley Stubbs Martino ’46 September 30, 2009 Shirley was a resident of Chelmsford MA. She had worked for twenty-seven years in the Sears catalog department at local Sears stores. She was a volunteer with the Senior Companion Program of Community Teamwork, Inc. and spent her volunteer time in the activities department of Palm Manor Nursing Home in Chelmsford MA. Shirley bowled for thirty-five years in various leagues. She was an avid reader belonging to the McKay Library Mystery Group. She enjoyed doing needlework and traveling to
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visit family and friends. She was a member of the Unitarian Church where she was active in the Women’s Alliance serving as president. She is survived by a son, two daughters, thirteen grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren. She will be remembered for her smile, her sense of humor, having a big heart and always liking everyone she met. Susanne Conrow Bingham ’47 October 28, 2014 Susanne was one of three children in her family. After George School, she went on to college at Drexel University in Philadelphia PA and earned a degree in home economics. While at Drexel she met her future husband. She was a strong and brave woman raising her family in New York and New Jersey, while her husband served as a director in the US Peace Corps, in Africa. Upon returning to the United States, Susanne went on to be a very successful business woman in real estate. After working in sales she opened Susanne Bingham Realties in Rutherford NJ. Susanne always loved being with her family, collies, riding horses, traveling, and playing Scrabble and bridge. She was active in the community serving in numerous volunteer roles. She had an infectious laugh that will be missed by all who knew her. Susanne is survived by her four children, including Ronald C. Bingham ’76, Timothy C. Bingham ’79, and Tamara Bingham James ’84, and six grandchildren. Carol Roberts Todd ’47 October 26, 2014 Carol was born and raised on her parents’ fruit farm in Marlton NJ, where she cultivated a love of horticulture. She attended Moorestown Friends School in Moorestown NJ and George School before graduating from Earlham College in Richmond IN in 1952. Following a tour of Europe, Carol moved to Philadelphia, where she held several positions, and lived in the Friendship Cooperative in West Philadelphia. There she met her husband in 1955, marrying and
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transforming him from frog to prince in 1956. They raised their three loving children in Philadelphia before retiring to Jamestown VA in 1989, later moving to Duxbury MA in 2008. Carol and her husband traveled the world together, collecting incredible experiences and friends around the globe. When at home, Carol spent her time being active in local cultural, community, and political organizations. While uncomfortable with prominent positions, she nevertheless ran for, and was elected, committeewoman in Philadelphia. More often, she would seek to help where it was needed most, in a supporting role. She believed she could best contribute to the communities she lived in by working at the grass roots level, interacting with people directly. Carol was the moral compass of her family. She quietly and gently set the example for how a good life should be lived. Carol is greatly missed for her steadfast optimism and positive outlook on life. She had the rare ability to be actively present in life. She had a marvelous talent for making people feel they mattered. With her infectious laugh and gracious, engaging character, the only people who did not love her had not yet met her. Carol is survived by her devoted husband of fifty-eight years, three children, and four grandchildren.
in Harvard, he got sidetracked and used his tuition money to buy the first Boston dealership for the then unheard-of Vespa Motor Scooter. The business was a great success and he still enrolled in Harvard that semester on a scholarship. Marty served on many boards and was deeply involved and committed to causes and activities that he cared about. In Aspen, inspired by his early friendship with local newspaper publisher Bil Dunaway, Martin reveled in mountain life with the same intensity he brought to all his endeavors. He bicycled all summer, including his iconic rides in Aspen’s Fourth of July parades, dressed in an Uncle Sam costume. He skied with abandon every winter and was an early aficionado of uphill skiing, long before it enjoyed its current wave of popularity. His skiing adventures extended to heli-skiing in Canada, where (as he loved to tell the story) he once brought an end to a season-long snow drought by leading his skiing party in an American Indian rain chant. At home in Aspen, his hospitality extended to a lengthy list of artists and intellects, most especially the musicians of the Aspen Music Festival and physicists visiting the Aspen Center for Physics. He is survived by his wife, son, daughter Eliza K. Flug ’94, five grandchildren, brother, and two sisters.
Martin (Marty) Flug ’48 February 10, 2015 Marty was a beloved father, grandfather, son, brother, and husband, and an entrepreneur and business leader in New York and Colorado since the early 1960s. Born in Brooklyn NY, he graduated from Harvard College in 1952, Yale Law School in 1955, and Harvard Business School in 1957. A winter visitor to Aspen CO since 1963, he has lived there since 1979. At his death he was co-chairman of the Board of Gulftech International, Inc., of Aspen CO, a group of five companies that design, manufacture, and lease food-processing equipment. A natural entrepreneur, he often told the story of his first serious business venture, when, on his way to enroll
Lauren P. Stubbs ’48 September 2, 2014 Lauren, affectionately known as “Stubby,” had made Fulton County PA his home since 1991 after he retired from truck driving. He proudly served his country as an Army private first class during the Korean War. One of the greatest pleasures of his life was his 1932 Auburn sedan. He enjoyed the yearly trips to Auburn IN, for the ACD meet and attended many other shows, car meets, and flea markets involving antique cars. He was a member of the Auburn-Cord-Duesenberg Club and the Antique Automobile Club of America, Hershey region. He liked to read about the Civil War and historical biographies. The Cardinals were his favorite baseball team. He
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liked watching sports on TV and bird watching from the back porch. Lauren attended Milton Hershey School in Hershey PA before attending George School. He is survived by his wife of fifty-eight years, and his daughter. W. Janney Wilson ’49 June 15, 2014 Janney was a beloved husband, devoted father, loving grandfather, and stepfather. He grew up on a dairy farm in Purcellville VA. A lifelong Quaker, Janney devoted his life to peace work. Following his conscience, he strongly resisted the Selective Service Act during the Korean War, spending a year’s time incarcerated in Petersburg VA. He graduated from Penn State University in State College PA. After the Wilson family dairy operation closed, he did custom farming in Loudoun County VA, and worked for the monks at Holy Cross Abbey, Berryville VA driving their bread truck to Washington, DC. His gentle nature and warm smile will be missed by all those whose lives he touched. Barbara Coan Houghton ’50 April 7, 2014 Barbara graduated with a degree in nursing from the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia PA in 1955. She spent time doing community service in El Salvador. She received her masters degree in nursing with a minor in Chinese at the University of Washington in Seattle WA. While studying in Seattle, she met her husband, a fellow Quaker and folk dancer. Their shared interests and hamburger recipes drew them together and they were married in 1963. Their first two children were born in Boulder CO and their third was born in Madison WI. While raising her children on a homestead outside McFarland WI, she explored her interests in the arts, agriculture, politics, and education. She served with the McFarland Historical Society, the Spartan 4-H Club, and the McFarland School Board. She wrote articles, profiles, and essays for publications as varied as McFarland Community Life and the
Christian Science Monitor. She also co-authored City of the Second Lake, a book detailing McFarland’s history. She was a member of the Wisconsin Writers Association, earning multiple awards for her poetry. She loved to perform in Madison-area community theater groups, commonly with Strollers Theatre, and most recently with an old-time radio show group, Radio Active. Barbara was active in Quaker meetings, projects, and life wherever she lived, including Madison Friends Meeting. She was a member of the Friendly Folk Dancers, a traveling Quaker dance group, and toured with them domestically and internationally. She traveled to China, El Salvador, Mexico, England, Russia, France, and Ghana. She was fluent in Spanish and Chinese and translated a book, Application of Weather Proverbs to Long-Range Weather Forecasting, from Chinese to English—which was published by China Meteorological Press in 2012. Her interest in China led her to visit there multiple times with her husband, family, and with other groups including the International Crane Foundation in Baraboo WI, an organization she loved and strongly supported. After her husband retired from the University of Wisconsin, they moved to Woodbury MN. She is survived by her devoted husband of fifty years, two brothers including James S. Coan ’54, three children, and five grandchildren. J. Thomas (Tom) Parry ’50 June 6, 2014 Tom, a resident of Long Lake MN, received his BS in industrial engineering from Iowa State University in Ames IA, an MBA from the Carlson School of Management in Minneapolis MN, and an MA in religion and theology from the United Theology Seminary. Tom was employed as an industrial engineer at Honeywell for thirty-one years. Throughout his life, Tom liked to travel. His favorite trip was to Scotland with his high school roommate, William P. Webb ’50. Other notable trips included India and a trip to Alaska where he met with Russians to promote his Rotary
Club. Tom is survived by his loving wife of twenty-three years, three children, two step-children, nine grandchildren, one great-granddaughter, and sisters Suzanne Parry Lamborn ’55 and Doris Parry Davenport ’59. Howard M. Rathbun ’50 October 23, 2014 Howard was born in East Orange NJ. During his four years at George School, one of the highlights was participating in a student/teacher exchange program in Dusseldorf, Germany for a seven-week summer work camp. In 1955, he graduated from Cornell University in Ithaca NY with a degree in engineering physics. Howard was the third generation in his family to attend Cornell. He was in Reserve Officers Training Corps, and was commissioned in the Navy. He served for two years aboard the USS Worcester. While ice-skating with friends, Howard met his future wife. They were married in her hometown of Oslo, Norway in 1961. They began their life together in Summit NJ, where their two children were born. Howard’s first job was with Monroe Calculators, where he worked on the design of their first computer. He received several patents for his work in computer science. In 1969 he joined Hewlett Packard, and was assigned to their Oslo, Norway office. In 1972 they moved to Loveland CO, where he continued working for HP until he retired in 1991. Howard was an avid stamp collector from an early age and later was very involved in genealogy and computer programming. He was a very talented woodworker, making many pieces of furniture for his family, and many toys for his children and grandchildren. He was always fascinated with ships and he enjoyed making intricate models. Music was also a very important part of his life. He loved playing the piano, attending concerts, symphonies, and the opera. Howard was a member of Loveland Stamp Club, Sons of Norway, Loveland Civic Music Association, Loveland Music Guild, Opera Colorado Board, and Loveland Rotary Club and was awarded a Paul Harris
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Fellow. He belonged to a machinist and metal working club and enjoyed making model steam engines. Howard and his wife enjoyed traveling, especially with family and friends; skiing at their cabin in Dillon CO; visiting their parents’ cabins in Raquette Lake NY and Hemsedal, Norway; working on many summer musicals with good friends in the Music Guild; and attending operas, symphonies, and theater. Howard is survived by his wife, daughter, son, three grandchildren, and brother. Anne Jensen Taylor ’50 September 15, 2014 Roger F. Gibbs ’51 November 26, 2014 Born in Montclair NJ, Roger resided in Jefferson Township NJ for many years, then in Whiting NJ for ten years, before recently moving to Manchester NJ. He served in the US Navy during the Korean Conflict. Roger worked as an insurance inspector for several companies before owning his own, Langer & Associates Insurance Company. He was also a member of the Antique Automobile Club of America. Roger is survived by his loving wife of fifty-five years, six children including Catherine Gibbs Pallitta ’78, thirteen grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and three siblings including R. Thomas Gibbs Jr. ’49. Robin Hiester Najarian ’51 January 21, 2015 Born in Reading PA, Robin owned and operated the former Schochary Ridge Goat Farm in Kempton PA for twenty years before retiring. She was a member of Jacob’s Church, Jacksonville PA. Robin graduated from Garland Jr. College in Boston MA, and earned her bachelor of arts from Kutztown University in Kutztown PA in 1976. She was a former 4-H leader in the dairy goat club, a former member of the New Bethel Church Quilting Club, and the Junior League of Wyomissing PA. Robin is survived by four sons including David C.
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Najarian ’82, her brother, and four grandchildren. Adelaide Daniels Key ’53 August 20, 2014 Adelaide grew up in Raleigh NC and lived most of her early life in that area. Her grandfather Josephus Daniels owned the Raleigh News and Observer, one of the nation’s most successful newspaper companies of its time. He instilled in Adelaide at an early age the importance of philanthropy and community service. In 1964, Adelaide moved to Franklin NC with her husband and young family. She loved being a mother to her four children and was very active in their lives and in the community. In 1990, living in Asheville NC and newly single, she sold her interest in the family publishing business, and used the new-found wealth to establish the Adelaide Worth Daniels Foundation, giving her full attention to philanthropy, activism, and public service. With her financial resources and time, she worked for social justice for those less fortunate in North Carolina, especially, but not limited to, child welfare and family services and expanding educational opportunities for all. Adelaide met her future wife in 2000 and the two were married in a public ceremony in 2007 and then legally in Connecticut in 2013. As partners in life and philanthropy, the two worked together for the benefit of Asheville’s community and continued to co-host benefits for candidates and causes they cherished. Her proudest achievement was founding and funding the Lewis Rathbun Center, an innovative nonprofit that provides lodging and other support services in a home-like environment free-ofcharge for caregivers and patients coming to Asheville for medical treatment. She received honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degrees from UNC Asheville in 2001 and from Western Carolina University in 2003, as well as numerous other honors and awards. She is survived by her loving wife, four children including Gilbert R. Key II ’75, Jonathan Key ’77, and David
Key ’82, seven grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren. Adelaide is also survived by her sister, Lucy C. Daniels ’51. Patricia (Pat) Hicks Kleis ’56 December 1, 2014 Pat grew up in Westbury NY, and attended Westbury High School before attending George School. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Cornell University in Ithaca NY, and later earned a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling from San Francisco State in San Francisco CA. After graduation she worked as a rehabilitation counselor at De Anza College in Cupertino CA and later at Sacramento City College in Sacramento CA. Pat came to California in 1960 where she met her husband in Soda Springs CA. They married in 1963 and settled in Cupertino where they raised their family. After retirement, they moved to Rescue CA. Following the death of her husband, she moved to Gilroy CA and lived next door to her daughter. Throughout her life, Pat enjoyed her family— attending her grandchildren’s sporting events, traveling, her Rescue Book Club, and building their cabin at Donner Lake. Pat’s optimistic outlook on life made her an inspiration to all who knew her. She lived for over forty years with multiple sclerosis, but refused to let it hold her back. In the past few years, she battled cancer, which ultimately took her life. She will be truly missed, but her lasting love, incredible spirit, and beautiful smile will remain with all who knew her. Pat was predeceased by her brother, Alfred H. Hicks ’58. Pat is survived by three children, eight loving grandchildren and four step-grandchildren. She is also survived by her two sisters, Janet Hicks Johnson ’60 and Susan Hicks Graveman ’65. William H. Speakman III ’57 October 8, 2013 William was born in Abington PA. He was a Quaker and owner/president of Speakman Management. In addition to his wife of fifty years, he is survived
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by two sons, a daughter, and two grandchildren. Judith (Judy) Guyton Pritchett ’58 January 16, 2014 Judy, also known as Rebel, was born in Shreveport LA. She taught at Tyler Junior College in Tyler TX for twentyeight years. Survivors include her husband, two children, two brothers, J. Stephen Guyton ’55 and Thomas H. Guyton ’62, and five grandchildren. Marthajane (MJ) Robinson ’64 December 25, 2014 MJ, of Austell GA, was born in WilkesBarre PA. In 1968, MJ married her first husband, whom she met at college. They divorced in 1980. She met her second husband in 1981. They married in 1999 and he passed away in 2006. At the time of her death, she was a member of Chestnut Hill Friends (Quakers) Meeting in Philadelphia PA. Throughout her life, MJ pursued many careers, including music as a singer and choir conductor, chaplaincy, and counseling. In addition, she enjoyed reading, gardening, knitting, and adored cats. She is survived by her daughter, her son, her brother, John M. Robinson Jr ’62. Robert (Bob) M. Nichols ’66 December 15, 2014 Bob met his wife at Guilford College in Greensboro NC. Together they raised a family in Purcellville VA, where Bob managed the family business, coached his sons’ soccer and baseball teams, cultivated a lifelong love of golf, and pursued a second career in real estate. They subsequently lived in Oak Island NC and then Stoneville NC. Bob is survived by his father, Milton A. Nichols ’42, his wife of forty-five years, two children, four grandchildren, and two siblings. Peter H. Klein ’69 March 20, 2014 Peter lived in Plantation FL and is survived by his wife, two sons including Scott S. Klein ’99, and older brother Robert S. Klein ’66.
Ryan G. Tracy ’93 October 21, 2014 Ryan resided in Sinking Spring PA. He was a member of St. Ignatius Loyola Roman Catholic Church in Whitfield PA. Ryan was a loving and devoted father to his three children and a beloved husband of eleven years. Also surviving are his brothers Austin D. Tracy ’99, Evan F. Tracy ’99, and Nolan D. Tracy ’94. Former Trustees
Alice Robinson Erb – former trustee August 18, 2014 Alice was a birthright Quaker, born in Wyoming County PA. She attended Swarthmore College in Swarthmore PA, graduated from Stanford University in Stanford CA, and earned an MD from the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia PA. In 1939 she married a fellow medical student and while he was in England in World War II, she practiced gynecology in Philadelphia PA. After the war they settled in Allentown PA, happy to live only an hour’s drive from her dear twin sister’s family. The youngest of Alice’s four children was just a year old when her husband, a neurosurgeon, suddenly died of a heart attack. Alice served as clerk of Lehigh Valley Friends Meeting, board member of the American Friends Service Committee, Girl Scout council treasurer and troop leader, a founder of the Allentown League of Women Voters, and board member of Allentown Planned Parenthood—while inevitably knitting during numerous committee meetings. She loved watching wildlife, sewing, reading, gardening, kayaking in a boat she named “Granny’s Folly,” and playing Go Fish with her grandchildren. She traveled widely—driving her teenage daughters and niece around France and Italy, and venturing to Antarctica with a son-in-law. She taught her children to accelerate out of a curve when driving, make hospital corners when bedmaking, and even off cake and brownies when baking—but most
importantly, to be kind and brave. For over thirty years she lived at Kendal at Longwood in Kennett Square PA, where she celebrated her 100th birthday eleven days before her death. She leaves four children including Molly E. Adams ’64, Christine Erb ’65, and Hannah E. Tolles ’67, seven grandchildren, and one great-grandson. Warren Witte – former trustee December 17, 2014 Warren served different Quaker organizations over the years: the American Friends Service Committee (AFSC), Friends Services for the Aging (FSA), and Friends Foundation for the Aging (FFA). He worked for the American Friends Service Committee from the early 1960s through 1992, beginning in Des Moines IA and including assignments in Philadelphia PA, Denver CO, Seattle WA, and Hong Kong. His work as regional executive in the Midwest and Pacific Northwest included developing and overseeing programs that ranged from education and advocacy programs for peace to practical support to Native Americans in the Northern Plains and Pacific Northwest. In 1992 he became executive director of Friends Services for the Aging, a new association of Quaker senior service providers. In 2008, Warren was appointed as the first executive director of the Friends Foundation for the Aging. He was a member of Chestnut Hill Friends Meeting, where he filled a range of leadership roles. He has also served on the boards of the Community of Bosnia, the Friends Board Training and Support Project, Chandler Hall, George School, Pennswood Village, and The Scattergood Foundation. Warren was an avid photographer. His photography has gained recognition over the last several years and was exhibited in the Philadelphia area, including Chandler Hall, Pennswood Village, and Foulkeways.
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APRIL 2015
S U M M E R AT G E OR G E S CH OOL
SUMMER ACADEMY July 26 – August 8 Ages 11–15
SUMMER
equestrian summer day camp
DAY CAMP June 22 – August 14
June 22 – August 14
Ages 4–14
Ages 8–16
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Notification of deaths was recorded as of February 19, 2015. We edit and publish information provided by families of deceased alumni, faculty, staff, and trustees. Notes submitted for publication might be edited due to space limitations and Georgian style guidelines.
Printed using soy-based ink on paper containing recycled fiber. Cover and text stock are certified by the Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) and contain 10% post-consumer recycled fiber.
56 | GE O RGIAN
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STAY CONNECTED
HOLD THE DATES
Visit the alumni website at georgeschool.org/alumni to stay connected. Submit a class note, find friends, update personal profiles, check out upcoming events, and much more.
FRIDAY–SUNDAY, MAY 8-10, 2015
You also can see what is happening at George School by visiting our Facebook page at facebook.com/georgeschool, following us on Twitter and Instagram @GeorgeSchool, and enjoying our blog at georgeschool.org/voices.
SUNDAY, MAY 24, 2015 Commencement
Alumni Weekend
FRIDAY & SATURDAY, MAY 15 & 16, 2015 Spring Theater Performance: Our Town
SATURDAY, JUNE 13, 2015 TEDxGeorgeSchool
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© 2015 George School
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Note: If you have received multiple copies of this issue at your address, please contact us with updated address information at advancement@georgeschool.org or at 215.579.6572.
PHOTOS: Inside Back Cover: The Class of 2007 swings are located at the west end of campus near the Class of 1965 Memorial Garden. (Photo by Bruce Weller) Back Cover: George School will dedicate the new Fitness and Athletics Center at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 9, 2015. (Photo by David Lamb)
Please join us for the
Fitness and Athletics Center Dedication Saturday, May 9, 2015 at 1:00 p.m.