New Canaan Country School Bulletin Fall 2022

New Canaan Country School Bulletin Fall 2022

Head of School:

Aaron Cooper

Editors:

Brooke Arthur

Kent Findlay ’80

Design: Good Design, LLC gooddesignusa.com

Printer: J.S. McCarthy Printers jsmccarthy.com

Photography:

Brooke Arthur

Kent Findlay ’80

Joan Guzzetti

Meaghan Mallin

Julie Porter

Fraser Randolph

Chi Chi Ubiña

Address changes: communications@countryschool.net

On the cover: The forecast is bright in this Beginners classroom.

Our Mission

We create an active, joyful learning environment where children are challenged to think deeply, question confidently, and act generously, so that they may lead lives of impact and purpose.

Our Values

Community: We seek, respect, and celebrate diversity and ignite a sense of belonging so everyone thrives.

Courage: We take risks, make mistakes, assume responsibility, and champion those around us.

Curiosity: We explore, investigate, and discover — inspiring a life devoted to endless learning.

Kindness: We foster a culture of compassion through our daily words and actions.

(Photo credit: Chi Chi Ubiña)

Board of Trustees

President:

Sarah M. Irwin

Vice President: F. Tucker Golden ’90

Treasurer: Michael J. DiBiasio ’90

Secretary: Sharon Gibbons Teles ’88

Members-at-Large:

Tara J. Coniglio

Arman C. Gokgol-Kline

John M. Ryan

Aaron C. Cooper, Head of School

Christopher M. Bogart

Arlety Bowman

Alex Figueroa

Mauricia L. Gardiner

Michael M. Godina

Catherine C. Jefferson

CONTENTS

Sarah Young Kilcullen ’98

Jennifer L. Kline

Mariko G. LeBaron

Heidi Locke Simon

Monique S. Mims

Douglas A. Ryder

Elizabeth Schmitt

Jawanda P. Staber

Rebecca C. Thornton ’92

Darby E. Webber

Parents’ Association

Executive Council

President: Jennifer Kline

President-Elect: Bonnie Rumilly

Treasurer: Jennifer MacLear

Secretary: Lauren Ryder

VP, Community Engagement and Inclusion: Lisa Pannone-Bria

VP, Community Education and Service: Molly Ghoussias

Alumni Council

President:

Sarah Young Kilcullen ’98

Vice President: Taylor Gould ’06

Caryn Antonini ’87

Nellie Coffy ’10

Richard Colligan ’01

Michael DiBiasio ’90

Marshall Johnson ’04

Taryn Jones Laeben ’95

Westy Charlson LeConey ’93

Suzanne Gibbons Owen ’94

Caitlin Maguire Patel ’04

Elena Kavanagh Phillips ’91

Andres Soto ’10

Allie Jordan Stinchcomb ’98

Sanny Burnham Warner ’88

Emeritus:

Steven Bloom ’03

Carl Brodnax ’76

Hugh Halsell ’59

Paula Kennedy Harrigan ’81

Carl Rohde ’66

Katharine O’Brien Rohn ’78

Stephanie Bowling Zeigler ’81

Ex Officio:

Aaron Cooper, Head of School

Ryan Smith, Senior Director of Advancement

Holly Donaldson Casella ’04, Director of Major Gifts & Alumni Affairs

Brooke Cavanaugh Reed ’01, Advancement & Alumni Associate

Tucker Golden ’90, Former Alumni Council President

from the HEAD OF SCHOOL

Dear Country School Community:

One of my favorite sights here at Country School is one that is repeated dozens of times every day: students running to class. Not out of class to lunch or recess — though they run at those times, too — but to class. Our students love school. They love to learn.

As we work to achieve our ambitious strategic vision to “redefine childhood education for the future,” we know that the lessons — and more important, the experiences of childhood — are shaping the very fiber of who our students will become. The past several years have reaffirmed what is most important for our children today and tomorrow.

We want our students to learn how to think, not what to think.

The issues our world faces are not going to get simpler, and in short, they will need the intellectual agility to meet dynamic challenges.

We want them to value their own voice and the voices of others.

Constructive dialogue is in short supply, and we have only become more divided. Contributing and listening are important antidotes.

We want them to genuinely care about the collective well-being.

In short, we need more empathy in our world. That is why our classrooms are full of conversation between students, building relationships and community and understanding of one another’s perspectives.

We want them to remain curious and growth-oriented.

As humans, the more we enjoy something, the more we want to do it. That is one reason why our program is so active, so child-centered, so playful. It sparks joy, which inspires a desire to learn even more. A virtuous cycle for sure, and the special sauce that makes Country School Country School.

I believe we as a society need to do everything in our power to have a future where people have learned again how to speak to one another and disagree civilly, where people truly strive to understand others’ points of view, backgrounds and experiences so that they may work together more effectively and inclusively, and where we are solving more problems than we are creating. We are educating future leaders to be curious, courageous, kind and to foster community. It is only in this way that we can hope to make progress on some of the world’s biggest challenges. I believe our children can do it, I know our teachers and staff and administrators and so many of you feel the same, and for me, I can tell you that this purpose sure does make it easy to get up every morning to help them get there.

Be well,

Aaron Cooper, Head of School

today and tomorrow.”

“The past several years have reaffirmed what is most important for our children

“We have been so impressed with the emphasis on character development and public speaking at NCCS. Matt is ready to take on his next presentation with pride and confidence.”

—Jennifer Bentley Rivera ’91 & Ricky Rivera

“Lean into Tension” Class of 2022 Closing Exercises

The following are remarks made by Head of School Aaron Cooper to the Class of 2022 on June 14.

I find myself thinking about the concept of tension. That’s right: tension. Just coming off exams, I am sure you felt some tension. When you decided what school to attend next year and awaited for the results after you applied, I am sure you experienced stress. You probably feel some tension today, perhaps in excitement at being here, maybe in nervousness that you will trip when walking up here to get your certificate — it’s OK if you do — maybe even some imaginings about what next year will be like. I can relate. I have felt butterflies all day myself.

And you have probably felt tension in other ways as well. I imagine you have gotten into an argument with a friend and wondered whether that would impact your friendship. Maybe you have felt nervous before a big game or performance or presentation. You have probably done poorly on a test or two. Perhaps a team you were on lost a game because of a mistake you made. And so on.

I bet not all the memories of those moments of tension are positive. So why, you may be wondering, would I be talking about tension in a setting like this at Closing Exercises? Well, because there is a positive side to tension that we sometimes think about less than the negative one but which, if you can lean into it, might hold a key to your future success.

Recently, the faculty and staff spent a Wednesday afternoon weaving. I suppose that might sound strange, and it might be even stranger to think that we were weaving strands of recycled plastic upon which we had written reflections into pieces of plastic construction fence. Out of context that does sound odd. But part of the lesson was about tension. You see, we did not use any tape or glue or knots or staples or adhesive of any kind. As we learned, when weaving is done well, it holds itself together with its own internal tension.

Similarly, think of a favorite sport, and I bet you can find an example of weaving demonstrating this principle of tension. The strings of a tennis or squash racquet are only

1. Grady, Joseph, Brodie, Sonia and Wiley O’Connor

2. Matthew Rivera presented the Class Reflection

3. Flavie Noel and Dario Sanon

4. Rob, Morgan and Sue Powell

5. Head of School Aaron Cooper, Eleanor duPont

6. Jennie, Jack, Sam and Ryan Nally

“Lean into the new ideas

you will encounter in your classes even when they don’t make sense. Lean into the perspectives of your new classmates, even if you at first disagree. Lean into sharing your own beliefs, in class and with your peers, even if they are first met with silence. Lean into the losses as much as the wins, taking what you can learn from them.”

tied off at a couple of places, similarly the webbing of a lacrosse stick — at least the old-fashioned woven kind — and of the pocket of a baseball glove are incredibly strong, durable, and effective. The netting of all sorts of goals is woven as well.

For each of these examples it is the tension in the weaving that gives them their strength. Think of how strong a baseball glove or lacrosse stick has to be to catch a ball thrown or hit at upwards of 100 miles per hour without breaking. Now, think of the moment the ball goes in there, and slow it down in your mind to see the way the strings or strips of leather stretch and bend to absorb the force and then bind together to stop the ball. As you can see, internal tension gives both strength and flexibility, even under moments of extreme stress. I would argue the same is true for each of you. Internal tension gives you strength and flexibility in every way, not just physically but also intellectually and certainly psychologically. That is the type of tension I want to discuss today.

There are lots of examples of this type of tension, and I will use your own words to identify some of them in a moment. First, I would like to share one that I believe is critical — and relevant — for you and your futures and that relates to much of what you have experienced in your years here. About a decade and a half ago, a friend of mine

Five of our 2022 graduates are children of alumni: Michael DiBiasio ’90, Tucker Golden ’90, Paula Kennedy Harrigan ’81, Abigail Manny Newport ’89 and Jennifer Bentley Rivera ’91.

7. Paul, Matthew and Gloria Schell

8. Tucker Golden ’90, Paula Kennedy Harrigan ’81 and Michael DiBiasio ’90

9. Matthew, Marisa, James, Michael ’90, Caroline, Dolf, Josephine, Daniel ’92, Madeline, Isabelle, Avery and Ali DiBiasio

10. Ricky Rivera, Matthew and Jennifer Bentley Rivera ’91

11. Maggie, Abigail Manny, Tully, Riley and Abigail Manny Newport ’89

12. Paula Kennedy Harrigan ’81, Annie and Bo Harrigan

13. Tucker ’90, James, Oliver and Gwen Golden

14. Caroline DiBiasio presented the Class Salutation

15. Brendan Buda received the Johansen Award (care and concern for others, compassion and a sense of community) and Penelope Arredondo received the Gamble Award (spirit, joy, kindness, faithfulness, goodness)

16. Jim, Lane, Caroline and Will Gallagher

17. Sara, Lyla and Dave Koch

18. Hunter, William ’21, Sue, Colin, Cam and Logan Mackey

19. Kathryn, Flynn and Richard Sellschop

20. Storey, John, Jack, Tatum and Daisy Fichthorn ’20

“Caroline has grown into a confident young woman on a supported path full of discovery, friendship, challenges and opportunities.”

—Marisa & Michael DiBiasio ’90

started an entirely new division in a large company we all know. He had to hire a team of 100 new employees to start the division. When I asked him what qualities he was seeking, he said that he wanted people who have conviction in their beliefs and also display comfort with ambiguity.

Think about that for a moment: conviction in beliefs can sound fixed. I believe it, I can articulate why, and that is that. I am certain: it’s true. But comfort with ambiguity suggests anything but fixed. It is to be open to new ideas and thoughts and information and open even to uncertainty itself. That seems like the very opposite. Yet comfort with ambiguity can be aimless if not anchored by beliefs, just like conviction in beliefs can be rigid without the balance that being comfortable with ambiguity provides.

And that is where this good kind of tension comes in — in concepts that can seem to be in opposition to one another and yet exist in a sort of symbiosis. Together, like the opposite-direction-crosshatching in weaving, they ultimately result in something better, something stronger, something more flexible. Certainly enough to get you hired for a great job at a Fortune 100 company.

But this sort of tension is uncomfortable. It is not always easy to see the connection between seemingly contrary ideas, and that can actually feel more difficult. I feel the butterflies in my stomach when I am nervous and tension in my shoulders when I am stressed, and I even feel pressure behind my eyes when I experience real uncertainty. None of those feelings are pleasant.

That is why I am speaking to you today about tension. Though it might feel uncomfortable, I believe leaning into these sorts of tensions is one of the most important skills needed to navigate our dynamic world. Think about the ways the world — almost every dimension of it — has changed just in your years in the Upper School like Matt [Rivera] described. It is head-spinning. But if you can identify and lean through the discomfort into these sorts of tensions, you can build strength and flexibility, which will make you more capable of seeing opportunities, of adapting and changing, and that will result in success. In many ways, it is not unlike

the athlete reading the opponent and the landscape of the game to get past them or defend from them.

Before we move forward, let’s go back to the tension I mentioned earlier that you might think of more normally and more negatively — stress. In fact, stress is good for you, too, at least in the right dose. Physiologically, the way our bodies build muscle after lifting weights or working out is that they repair lots of tiny tears that occurred during the workout. The result has more connection and more strength. Stressing your muscles, creating tiny tears in them, actually makes them stronger.

So, here at Country School, we have intentionally “worked out” your brains — in addition to your other muscles — during your time here. We have introduced you to tensions just like this in so many of your classes. So much of our goal is to challenge you to think deeply, to question confidently and to act generously, and it is through experiencing stress and grappling with moments of tension that you have learned to do so.

And I know you know and live this — because I have listened to you. You have so many of these lessons inside of you — almost intuitively at this point. Matt just shared a number of them right now. One year ago, I stood here and read the ‘one best piece of advice you have ever received’ that each of you shared with Mr. McDonough in Life Skills.

And this year I listened to your “This I Believe” speeches. Many of these involved living within tension. You talked about not taking things for granted, about stepping outside of your comfort zone, about living in the moment rather than worrying about the future, about engaging in the little moments, about committing to something you love and taking advantage of opportunities, about the challenge in making a change and taking lessons from loss, about having confidence in yourself as you are working towards your dreams, and about the blessings of life being difficult.

“We are proud of Brendan’s academic progress, but Country School’s lasting impact is the quality of his character — molded over time by special people pushing him in the right way when needed, caring for him and supporting him on so many levels.”

—Jessica Holscott & Jeff Buda

21. Lisa, Matthew and Matt Fry

22. Ivorel Thiersaint, Alex Thiersaint and Michele Tombeau

23. Jeff, Kaitlyn, Colin and Brendan Buda, Jessica Holscott

Congratulations!

Class of 2022 Secondary School Destinations

Penelope Arredondo ....................................Greens Farms Academy

Annie Boggess

The Hotchkiss School

Brendan Buda......................................................... Canterbury School

Caroline DiBiasio

Greenwich Academy

Eleanor duPont Deerfield Academy

Jack Fichthorn ..................................................... Westminster School

Matt Fry Brunswick School

Lane Gallagher .................................................... Westminster School

Reed Ghriskey

Westminster School

Oliver Golden Berkshire School

Annie Harrigan ...........................................................St. Luke’s School

Lyla Koch

Colin Mackey ....................................

New Canaan High School

Greenwich Country Day School

Daniel Marin ...............................................................St. Luke’s School

Jack Nally Greens Farms Academy

Riley Newport .............................Northfield Mount Hermon School

Brodie O’Connor Berkshire School

Morgan Powell King School

Matt Rivera ..........................................................................King School

Ellie Rosolen

Greenwich Country Day School

Dario Sanon ......................................................... Shelton High School

Chris Santa Fairfield College Preparatory School

Matt Schell Rye Country Day School

Flynn Sellschop ...................................................... The Putney School

Alex Thiersaint Greens Farms Academy

See page 58 for Class of 2019 college destinations

The members of New Canaan Country School’s Class of 2022: Front row from left: Annie Harrigan, Ellie Rosolen, Eleanor duPont, Lyla Koch, Morgan Powell, Annie Boggess. Second row from left: Reed Ghriskey, Riley Newport, Caroline DiBiasio, Penelope Arredondo, Chris Santa. Third row from left: Jack Nally, Daniel Marin, Jack Fichthorn, Oliver Golden, Brodie O’Connor, Lane Gallagher. Fourth row from left; Colin Mackey, Brendan Buda, Alex Thiersaint, Dario Sanon. Fifth row from left: Matt Fry, Matt Rivera, Matt Schell. Not pictured: Flynn Sellschop.

That’s a Wrap!

The Ghriskey and Rosolen families conclude 14 years at Country School. Also noteworthy are the Boggess family with 12 years, and the Arredondo and Marin families each with 10 years.

You see, all of these — what you believe — demonstrate what you have learned in your years to this point, here at this school, from your teachers and families and loved ones, and from one another. And they show that you already know about how tension builds flexibility and strength.

So, as you head to your next schools, lean into that tension even as it might be uncomfortable. Lean into the stress even as it does not feel good. Lean into the new ideas you will encounter in your classes even when they don’t make sense. Lean into the perspectives of your new classmates, even if you at first disagree. Lean into sharing your own beliefs, in class and with your peers, even if they are first met with silence. Lean into the losses as much as the wins, taking what you can learn from them. The more you do, the more you will be weaving together new understandings and new wonderings, new beliefs and new ambiguities, and the stronger and more flexible you will be. That will serve you well in the next several years and in the next several decades, in moments of calm and in moments of extreme stress.

I have no doubt that you will need the strength and flexibility that comes from it, and thinking about you leading our future gives me hope and optimism. You are a tremendous group of people. Your seriousness, your care for one another, your notable leadership, and your good-natured friendships filled with laughter along with your interests, your talents, and the strength and flexibility you have demonstrated through some uncomfortable and uncertain times have given this community a true gift, and I am grateful. I know I speak for everyone here by saying how proud I am of you for all you have done and all you will do.

24. Matt, Ellie, Tyler ’20 and Kirsten Rosolen

25. Benjy, Reed and Ashley Ghriskey

26. Martha, Daniel and Rafael Marin

27. Liz, Penelope and John Arredondo

28. Stefanie, Anne and Spencer Boggess

29. Ana Robledo and Chris Santa

“We have seen Penelope grow into a confident and kind leader with a strong work ethic and high academic achievements. She was prepared for every new step along the way, and her teachers provided support, inspiration and challenges.”

—Liz & John Arredondo

Celebrating Our Eighth raders

At New Canaan Country School’s Celebration of Eighth Graders on June 13, Head of Upper School Karl Palmgren recognized the 61 members of the Class of 2023 as kind, genuine and talented. In his remarks, he told the students that he is confident they will do great things with their lives. He also reminded them that academic preparation isn’t all they learned or all that they will need moving forward. “Skill and knowledge without courage is like a car without gas — it won’t go anywhere. You can come to a conclusion as to the next best step about a very difficult decision, but without courage, without that gas, you will be stuck.” He encouraged them to remember that they also learned how to be bold and resilient.

1. Eighth Grader Sasha Valdes delivered the Class Reflection. She urged her classmates to remember their shared experiences and how brave they had grown: “We have been trying new things in spite of our fears since before we could walk, so why should we stop now? It may be hard, but we have done it before, and we must continue. If we do not try, we will never know how much we could have achieved.”

2. Jonathan Gavidia, Stewart Upson, Jasper van Reesema and Finn Malkoun

3. Kayla Sanon, Lillian Back, Simeran Samra, Upper School Teacher Liz Carroll and Emily Fonner

Best of Luck!

Class of 2023 Secondary School Destinations

While 26 students returned for ninth grade, others are currently attending the following secondary schools:

Chloe Ableman......................................Brien McMahon High School

Christopher Blair New Canaan High School

Katherine Branca .................................................. Darien High School

Jamie Brooks Millbrook School

Liam Cannon ........................... Fairfield College Preparatory School

Freya Collins Rye Country Day School

Caitlyn Edwards Greenwich Academy

Hudson Feinberg ...................................................... Millbrook School

Emily Fonner Westminster School

Ellis Frey .......................................................New Canaan High School

Graham Gale King School

Brooks Harrington St. Luke’s School

Brett Humphrey.............................................Greens Farms Academy

Isabella Kelley St. Luke’s School

Dilara Khan .......................................................... Miss Porter’s School

Will Kieske St. Luke’s School

Juliet Lannamann Sacred Heart Greenwich

Will McKeown................................ Georgetown Preparatory School

Members of the eighth grade Class of 2023 include:

Chloe Ableman, Samantha Aliapoulios, Capone Andrade, Lillian Back, Celia Baliotti, Christopher Blair, Consuelo Bowman, Katherine Branca, James Brooks, Andrew Burr, Octavio Calderini, Joseph Calio, Liam Cannon, Andres Catano, Ella Charron, Freya Collins, Caroline Coniglio, Julia Coniglio, Charlotte Cooper, Caitlyn Edwards, Hudson Feinberg, Emily Fonner, Ellis Frey, Graham Gale, Jonathan Gavidia, Peter Goodyear, Louisa Gosk, Brooks Harrington, Brett Humphrey, Harry Jellinek, Katherine Johnson, Larson Johnson, Isabella Kelley, Daley Keogh, Dilara Khan, William Kieske, Juliet Lannamann, Eleanor Levinson, Jayden Liu, Itzel Llamas, Katherine Maliakal, Madeline Maliakal, Finn Malkoun, Charlotte Mannix, William McKeown, Addison McNear, Hilary Miller, Grady O’Connor, Ryan Pauta, Jack Regan, Benjamin Ryan, Simeran Samra, Kayla Sanon, Matthew Silver, Olivia Spain, William Teles, Stewart Upson, Sasha Valdes, Jasper van Reesema, Blaire Williamson and Anna Zhuperina.

Addie McNear...................................................... Miss Porter’s School

Katherine Maliakal Greenwich Academy

Maddie Maliakal.................................................. Greenwich Academy

Finn Malkoun St. Luke’s School

Hilary Miller ............................................................... Berkshire School

Ryan Pauta Rye Country Day School

Jack Regan New Canaan High School

Ben Ryan ................................................................ St. George’s School

Simeran Samra Westhill High School

Kayla Sanon ......................................................... Shelton High School

Matt Silver King School

Olivia Spain New Canaan High School

Will Teles ......................................................New Canaan High School

Stewart Upson St. Luke’s School

Sasha Valdes ........................................................ Greenwich Academy

Jasper van Reesema Greens Farms Academy

Anna Zhuperina Greenwich Academy

A Campaign Update BOLDLY FORWARD

In Fall 2016, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved an ambitious master plan that would touch nearly every corner of campus. This spring, we celebrated the success of the Boldly Forward Capital Campaign, which brought to life the vision for updated academic buildings, a state-of-the-art Athletics & Wellness Center, a stunning new dining hall, and the addition and expansion of several community spaces.

It is all thanks to the support of hundreds of donors, with gifts ranging from $50 to more than $3 million, that we have exceeded our fundraising goals. Special thanks goes to our Campaign Co-Chair Sharon Gibbons Teles ’88, and our former Campaign Co-Chairs Wil Warren P’17, ’20 and Megin Wolfman P’23, ’25, along with all of the members of the Advancement Committee, the Board of Trustees and all of our volunteers.

Our new Susan Haigh Carver ’51 Dining Hall and Athletics & Wellness Center have transformed our campus and strengthened our programming across all ages and grade levels, and they serve as wonderful gathering spaces for our entire community. Campaign gifts for our endowment have helped to establish funds in support of mission-critical areas of focus including financial aid, diversity, equity and inclusion efforts, STEM and other academic programs. None of this would have been possible without the support of our community. Thank you for helping Country School continue to move boldly forward into the future, and thank you for making so many wonderful things possible for all of our students.

Athletics & Wellness Center

Formally Opens with Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Board members Tara Coniglio, Sharon Gibbons Teles ’88 and Tucker Golden ’90 joined Head of School Aaron Cooper (with scissors) to symbolically open the Athletics & Wellness Center, which was completed during the pandemic.

THANK YOU!

“Chief among a long list of all-stars are former board members Randy Salvatore and Stephanie Bowling Zeigler ’81, who easily logged 1,000 hours on the project.”

—Tucker Golden ’90, Trustee, acknowledging the many people who contributed to the school’s multi-year master plan, the most recent highlight of which was the construction of the Athletics & Wellness Center.

Honoring Our Faculty & Staff

The school community gathered May 13 to celebrate the faculty and staff, reflect upon the unprecedented trials and triumphs of the profession during the past three years, and to pay tribute to those who have retired since the pandemic began. Head of School Aaron Cooper individually honored retirees Tom Giggi, Dave Stoller, Michal Speck, Lilani Balasuriya, Fraser Randolph, Pat Grace, Terry Gumz, Raphe Elkind, Laurie Bepler, Kathy Diomede, Susan Chiavaroli, Lisa Schultz, John Hastings and Jean Stevens for their contributions and dedication. Cheers, inside jokes and good-natured heckling could be heard from the numerous former faculty, staff and alumni in attendance during the festive occasion.

Opposite, top: More than 170 alumni, parents, parents of alumni, current and former faculty and staff and trustees gathered to celebrate those retiring.

Opposite, bottom: Celebrating Tom Giggi

1. Jean Stevens (faculty 1995–2020), Dave Stoller (staff 1982–2022), Tom Giggi (faculty 1981–2021), Pat Grace (staff 1996–2021), Terry Gumz (staff 2012–2020), John Hastings (faculty 2004–2021), Head of School Aaron Cooper, Raphe Elkind (faculty 1994–2021), Fraser Randolph (faculty 1989–2022), Michal Speck (faculty 1986–2022)

2. Scott Lilley, Carol Etzold (faculty 1991–2014) and Chantal Detlefs

3. Pat (staff 1996–2021) and John Grace

4. John Teitler and Jean O’Dell (faculty 1989–2015)

5. Catherine Jefferson and Sharon Gibbons Teles ’88

6. Sue Issacs (faculty 1976–1990)

7. Martha Love, Jean Stevens (faculty 1995–2020) , Tom Giggi (faculty 1981–2021), Liz Carroll and Keith Love

8. Annie and Jon Burleigh

9. Head of School Aaron Cooper, John Ziac (staff 1972–2014), Nancy Ziac (faculty 1978–2010), Peter Smith (faculty 1973–1976), Agneta Smith (faculty 1973–2006), Anneliese Gastrich (faculty 1989–1995)

Adventures Academic

Adventures Academic

Fostering a Culture of Compassion

Led by students (particularly Kai and Keilani Gokgol-Kline and Ben Kelsey), our school community engaged in grassroots activities in an ongoing display of support for the people of Ukraine.

Reaching New Heights

Student athletes, faculty and staff used the fitness room in the new Athletics & Wellness Center for plyometrics and strength and training exercises.

Learning to Skate

Fun fact: Physical Education Apprentice Kendall Cornine plays forward for the Metropolitan Riveters of the National Women’s Hockey League.

Hitting All the Right Notes

All Middle School students participated in a performance ensemble, either chorus or band, and there were several opportunities to perform for the community. Pictured: Max Tangen.

Pulling Together

Lower School physical education emphasized fitness, sportsmanship, skill-building and fun.

Merrily, Merrily!

Eighth and ninth graders in Mr. Lawler’s woodshop elective designed and built a wooden rowboat that they launched with great fanfare on Hardon Pond.

“Look! I See Land, Odysseus!”

The fourth grade study of ancient Greece, early democracy and the origins of “Justice for All” incorporated Greek myths and the Odyssey and culminated in a multidisciplinary presentation.

Earning National Attention in Latin

Lucy Ward received first-place recognition nationally as a result of a perfect score on the 2022 National World Language exams in March.

Toutes nos félicitations!

French student Anna Zhuperina received first-place recognition nationally as a result of a perfect score on the 2022 National World Language exams in March.

Fourth Graders Raise and Release Salmon Fry

Fourth grade science students traveled to the Salmon River State Forest in East Hampton, Connecticut, where they carefully released baby salmon (fry) into the river’s tributary. The salmon release was the final step in a scientific study of salmon, ecology and environmental issues.

Hooray, Hooray for the Month of May!

A long-standing Country School tradition, Beginners celebrated the arrival of spring.

Bringing the Fun to Carline

Lower School faculty and staff are known for their celebratory style at morning carline drop-off.

Redefining Opportunity

Flag football has become an immensely popular athletic option for everyone. Pictured: Frances Lilley.

Learning to Express Ideas Effectively

Cameron Ableman’s essay was among 15 (of 2,200 entries) to be selected by U.S. Senator Chris Murphy in his annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day Essay Challenge. At a ceremony held in Waterbury on Feb. 12, the senator read aloud selected passages from three of the essays, one of them Cameron’s, in which Cameron reflected on Dr. King’s message of nonviolence as it relates to the best way to impact change today. Joining Cameron’s family for the ceremony were Grade 6 Teacher Mauricia Gardiner, former Apprentice Teacher Hartel Smith and Head of School Aaron Cooper.

Who’s Your Buddy?

Older and younger students were paired into buddy teams and met several times throughout the year for community-building activities and friendship. Pictured: Evren Gokgol-Kline and Finn Malkoun.

Celebrating Cultural Traditions

As part of their yearlong interdisciplinary study of China, first graders performed the peacock dance, a tradition that honors the Lunar New Year.

Time Traveling to the Mid-Century Modern Era

Fifth grade social studies students had a private tour of New Canaan architect Philip Johnson’s famed Glass House May 10 as part of their yearlong study of walls and borders. The Mid-Century Modern philosophy of eliminating traditional walls and thereby connecting living space to the natural world was explored, and students were quick to realize the pros and cons of such a bold move.

Exploring our Natural World

The entire Kindergarten spent Monday afternoons in our 35 acres of woodland trails, catching tadpoles, using their imaginations, exploring, climbing, playing, taking risks and being in nature.

Baking Mud Pies

Time and space was created to let imagination bloom in the Early Childhood division. Pictured: Vivian Blackwell and Abigail McKinney

Arts In Action

1. Fifth and sixth grade performing arts students presented their original play The Quest for the Scepter. The production was entirely student-conceived, choreographed, designed and performed by the ensemble cast of 21 students over the course of the spring trimester.

2. Harry Jellinek and Kayla Sanon in Beauty and the Beast

3. Sammy Robb, Valentina Silva-Mendoza, Thatcher Mallozzi and Graham Knowles.

4. Jack Beauclair, Lillian Kanter

5. First and second grade students performed original dances on a stage decorated with their own artwork in the school’s auditorium on June 9.

6. Roman Massey

7. Anna Zhuperina, Kayla Sanon and Daley Keogh

8. Caroline Irwin, Cecilia Thompson and Juan-Carlos Bowman

Community Celebrating Our

The Parents’ Association Creating a Culture of Community

In countless ways, large and small, our amazing Parents’ Association helps to sustain a welcoming and inclusive school community. They say it takes a village to raise a child, and we are so grateful to have this talented, energetic, diverse and kind group of parents in ours.

PA EXECUTIVE COUNCIL 2022–2023

Jennifer Kline, President

Bonnie Rumilly, President-Elect

Jennifer MacLear, Treasurer

Lauren Ryder, Secretary

Lisa Pannone-Bria, VP, Community Engagement and Inclusion

Molly Ghoussias, VP, Community Education and Service

PA COMMITTEES & EVENTS

• Admission Ambassadors

• Annual Fund Ambassadors

• Annual Meeting & Dinner

• Class Representative Program

• Community Service

• Cougar Run

• Faculty & Staff Appreciation

• Festival of Books

• Frogtown Fair

• Greenery

• Host Family Program

• Kyle A. Markes Day of Service

• Logo — NCCS Spirit Wear

• Nominating & Appointments

• Mothers at Work

• PA Coffees

• PA Volunteer Fair

• Parent Gatherings

• Parent Talks

• PJs & Pizza

• Upper School Dinners

Thank you, NCCS Faculty & Staff!

As a means of expressing its gratitude for the school’s faculty and staff whose jobs became exponentially more complicated during the pandemic, the Parents’ Association facilitated several events throughout the year including the Sail into Summer Luncheon in May.

5th Annual Cougar 5K & Fun Run

“There was an abundance of school spirit, sunshine and smiles.”

“The PA is so grateful to the NCCS faculty and staff for the amazing work they do educating our kids, keeping them safe and creating a joyful environment in which they can thrive!”

—Gwen Golden, 2021–2022 PA President

—Eleanor Lasko, PA volunteer who together with Barbara Moody, Kelly McKeown and Erin Kanter, chaired the event on Oct. 2. The school’s newly designed cross-country course loops around the school’s 85 acres and also covers woodland trails.

(Top) Kindergarten Teacher Tracy Spain with PA volunteers Tara Coniglio and Liz Arredondo. (Above left) PA volunteer Kari Davis was among those who served lunch to faculty and staff. (Above right) Boatloads of students’ compliments and words of good cheer were facilitated by PA volunteers and gifted to teachers.

Kyle A. Markes

Country School and Horizons families came together to serve the wide-ranging needs of 15 local nonprofit organizations on the school’s campus and throughout Fairfield County on April 23. They were participating in the eighth annual Kyle A. Markes Day of Service, named in honor of an NCCS student who passed away in 2013 and is remembered for his commitment to community service. Event co-chairs Aimee Abelman and Lindsay O’Donnell facilitated the activities, many of which continued through the spring. They were assisted by vice chairs Suzie Jellinek and Claire Londa.

Community

“KAM Day of Service connects the students to the larger community in such an impactful way. It is particularly moving to witness everyone in our community eager to roll up their sleeves and work together in the spirit of making a difference. With the variety of events, children are seeing that opportunities to connect and get involved are everywhere.”

—Lindsay O’Donnell, a member of the school’s

PA

community

service

committee

1. PA volunteers Johana Flores, Makena Smith, Jessica Holscott and Viviette Smith were among those who made fleece blankets for the babies in the NICU and cards for the mothers comforted by The Tiny Miracles Foundation.

2. A busy morning making care packages for One Tough Cookie

3. Claire Londa, Lindsay O’Donnell and Jenelle Wideman were among the many PA volunteers who facilitated this community event.

4. PA volunteers Kristin Cahill and Mark Cahill delivered 119 diapering kits prepared by KAM Day volunteers to the Family & Children’s Agency.

A Day of Homespun

Fun, Food + Friendship!

Thought to be our largest-ever turnout, over 800 members of our NCCS and Horizons community enjoyed a picnic lunch and games designed for the young at heart at the 75th annual Frogtown Fair, held on the school’s front lawn on May 14. Ninth-graders ran the midway while younger children enjoyed pony rides, the petting zoo, cotton candy, crafts, face painting, gunny sack races and rides in Old Faithful, the antique fire engine. In the Grace House circle, children ages 3–6 were entertained by hand-carved (and hand-pulled) carousel horse rides and frog-themed bean bag games.

Above: Following tradition, the Agonizers kicked off the fair with a musical parade up the driveway.

1. It’s always heartwarming to see so many multi-generational families return to campus, including Clay ’12, James ’18, and Elizabeth Kontulis who brought George and Charlotte, whom they were babysitting for Eliza Kontulis Getz ’04.

2. Musically inclined faculty members Lindy Toczko, Scott Lilley, Christopher Lawler and Andrew Tyson kept spirits high with a playlist of bluegrass melodies.

3. Prince and Marie Roc

4. Carmelo Mercado-Hilliard, Amelia Grant and Stefanos Ghoussias

5. Head of School Aaron Cooper offered special thanks to exceptional Parents’ Association event chairs Lauren Ryder, Jennifer Kurtz, Devon Burger and Shannon Kieske and to the many additional NCCS and Horizons volunteers whose efforts made the day so special.

6. Parent volunteers Tori Vartanian, Ashley Burr, Cathy Jefferson, Ellen Lundquist and Jennifer MacLear sold logo wear and merchandise in the school store’s pop-up tent.

7. Many enjoyed a picnic lunch and the company of old and new friends in the Grace House circle.

8. Jonah, Ryan Oakes ’93, Assistant to the Director of Studies Pat Oakes, Esme and Mika Oakes

9. Ninth graders ran the midway, including Dario Sanon who used his artistic skills in the face-painting booth.

10. Parent volunteers Arlety Bowman, Tucker Golden ’90 and Gloria Schell

11. Alex, a child of Maureen and James Knowles ’94 and a grandchild of Suzanne Knowles ’61

12. Jayden Shepherd, Paula Kennedy Harrigan ’81, Jenny Harrington and Catherine Shepherd

Back in Bloom And the Band Played On!

Parents’ Association Hosts Amazing Community Party

NCCS parents, faculty and staff gathered for an evening of food trucks and fun in the Grace House Circle on April 30. Campfires blazed while friends old and new celebrated the arrival of spring at “Back in Bloom,” a community party hosted by the Parents’ Association.

A raffle was held with prizes including as Movie and Popcorn (for your child’s class), Bring your Pet to School and Design the School Lunch Menu for a Day.

Fell Herdeg, whose band Doghouse was the perfect choice for the evening’s backyard feel-good vibe. The band played a hit parade of covers including by the Eagles, Steely Dan and the Grateful Dead. Many in attendance were inclined to sing along, dance or simply lounge in Adirondack chairs set up around the campfires.

1. Parent

2. Westy Charlson Leconey ’93 and Sharon Gibbons Teles ’88

3. A casual evening of community

4. David and Lauren DeRemer, Allie Jordan Stinchcomb ’98

5. Anna Halynski, Diana Lucky, Carlos Mendoza, Heide Locke Simon and Bonnie Rumilly

6. Jordan Katz ’92, Spencer Mallozzi ’92 and Dan DiBiasio ’92

7. Kara Cooper and Gwen Golden

8. Lyndsay and Mead Rust

9. Kylie and Adam Walker

10. Briana and David Nachman

11. Justin and Monica Aronson, Jonas Laeben, Corrinn and David Gutierrez, Dino Ghoussias

12. Pat Oakes, Ginny Pracilio, Renee Bornstein, Chantal Detlefs

13. Maria Sette ’92 and Rob Faugno, Jodi Hasbrouck, David and Shannon Kieske

14. Jesse and Leatrice Embley, Cindy Thom, Sarah Vandekerckhove, Rachel Wynne

15. Adam Walker, Alysia Love, Kylie Walker, Jessie Katz, Rand Niederhoffer, Annie Phillips, Alex Phillips, Jordan Katz

16. Bruce and Jennifer MacLear

17. Alexis and Simon Whitcombe

18. Meaghan Mallin and Tara Coniglio

19. Carin Walden

20. PA Volunteers Hilary Flanagan, Kristy Chattaway, Hannah Brazier, Polly Goodyear, Ryan Marie Brooks, Jennifer Massey

21. Charles Bogus, Tatiana and Carlos Mendoza, Ana Robledo and Head of School Aaron Cooper

22. Noel and Scott Gilbert

23. Jason Miller and Joanna Love, Allison and David Pontius, Jay and Kay Garrett

24. Katie Rothschild, Mike and Kristie Godina

25. Zack Mallin, Anthony Coniglio, Justin Aronson

26. Abby and Christopher Glover, Dan O’Keefe

27. Devon and Tom Burger, Whitney and Spencer Mallozzi ’92

28. Margo Orosz, Brienna Tiedemann, Zahra Mehta

29. Stefan Borowski, Meegan Horn and Katy Ghadiyali

30. NCCS parent Fell Herdeg on bass with his band Doghouse

31. Drew Vandekerckhove, Leatrice Embley, Mark Brazier and David Falkenstein

32. Phil and Arlety Bowman, Tom and Sharon Gibbons Teles ’88

33. Chantal Detlefs

34. Sarah and Dane Vrabac, Will Cooper, Nikki and Justin Tobe

35. Ralph and Ashley Williams, Westy Charlson LeConey ’93 and Morgan LeConey

36. Callie and Rob Creighton, Chrissie Shearman

37. Javier Flores and Head of School Aaron Cooper

38. Tarun and Melinda Stewart, Fabio and Carina Calia, Marisa DiBiasio

39. Arlety and Phil Bowman, Tom Teles, Jason Massey, Mari Lannamann

40. Rob Faugno, Maria Sette ’92, David and Shannon Kieske

Welcoming

All Grandparents & Special Friends!

We were delighted to have over 350 grandparents and special friends come to campus May 6 to experience a day-in-the-life of a Country School student.

SAVE THE DATE TO JOIN US NEXT YEAR! FRIDAY, MAY 5

2. Barbara Heller, Samson Reiner and Paul Heller

3. Grandparents and special friends joined Kindergarteners in a variety of board games.

4. Susan McKittrick and Paige Arneill

5. Caitlyn Wideman and Hyacinth McQuilkin

6. Jim and Susan Dunning

7. Ellen Dunn, Topher Kern, Annie Kern

8. Belinda Bewkes Metzger and Rory Stroud

9. Chris and Mike El-Hillow, Dylan Svenson

10. Judy Hill joins Cooper Gagnier and classmates for circle time.

11. Justin Stannard and Rita Strapp

12. Fletcher and Felice Londa

13. Caitlin and Declan McMullen with family and special friends

14. Caroline and Emma Bernard, Marcia and Jim Gasparovic, Kristen Bernard

15. Abigail Overlock, Gayle and Jim Neill

16. Ginny Irwin, Caroline and Henry Irwin and Christine Murray

More photos available www.nccs.smugmug.com

1. Grandparents jumped right into the fun of a GAGA ball game with third graders.

Building Brighter Futures Since 1964

Hosted at New Canaan Country School

Celebrating Success!

HORIZONS HIGH SCHOOL

GRADUATES HONORED

Horizons staff, academic coaches, board members and families gathered on June 4 to celebrate the 28 graduating seniors in the Horizons at New Canaan Country School Class of 2022 at a ceremony held on the Grace House lawn. The Alumni Association induction ceremony was held there as well.

Bankwell sponsored the event for the fourth year in a row, recognizing the resilience, hard work and dedication of these seniors, many of whom started with the program before third grade. Bankwell Branch Manager Toure Surgeon a Horizons alumnus from the Class of 2006, shared these words of advice with our graduates: “The road ahead is long and wide and full of opportunities. Don’t settle. Settling means giving into someone else’s vision of your life. Don’t let the noise of the crowd silence your inner voice. And most importantly, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition.”

“In my experience, the [Horizons] senior program kept me afloat, and I was able to maintain my confidence in my academic abilities throughout each and every school year. I’d like to thank you, Horizons, for changing my life.”

—Ramses Perez ’19, who spoke at the Horizons event, is a 2019 graduate of New Canaan Country School, was Valedictorian of the Class of 2022 at Brien McMahon High School’s International Baccalaureate graduation and currently attends the University of Virginia. For more about Ramses, please see Class Notes, page 63.

1. Jackie Roberson, Horizons Senior Program Dean of Students and Culture, and Lavone Roberson, Horizons Academic Director, presented the Jackie Roberson Valedictorian Award to Marissa Crevecoeur, also a graduate of Westhill High School. This award recognizes the student who has received the highest cumulative, weighted GPA throughout their high school years and is known for their integrity and active involvement in the Horizons program. Marissa took a very strong load during her time in high school, earning an overall 5.00 GPA, and currently attends Columbia University.

2. Ramses Perez ’19, Katherine Romero, Allison Salas and Lubia Sandoval

3. Horizons Director of Student and Family Support Nehemie Moïse Young and Family Council representative Nancy Nieves presented the Leah Kimmet Spirit Award to Berenice Giron, a 2022 graduate of Westhill High School in Stamford. The award recognizes a graduating Horizons high school senior for their outstanding kindness, enthusiasm and dedication to others. Berenice currently attends Southern Connecticut State University.

4. Horizons Executive Director Nancy von Euler congratulated high school graduate and Horizons participant Taina Cabrera.

5. Roberto Nieves Jr., Horizons Class of 2007 shared reflections as the alumni speaker and led the recitation of the Alumni Association Oath as the graduating class was inducted into the Horizons Alumni Association.

6. The Horizons High School Class of 2022

For more information, please visit www.horizonskids.org.

The members of Horizons’ Class of 2022 received acceptances to over 85 different colleges and universities and are currently attending:

Coastal Carolina University

Columbia University

Delaware State University

Eastern Connecticut State University

Florida Atlantic University

Georgetown University

Harvard University (2)

Iona College

Lehigh University

Lynn University

Norwalk Community College (4)

Sacred Heart University

Salem State University

Southern Connecticut State University

Southern New Hampshire University

University of Connecticut

University of Connecticut – Stamford

University of North Carolina School of the Arts

University of Virginia

Founded in 1964, Horizons at NCCS is the first in a nationwide network of programs that are successfully closing the opportunity gap experienced by under-resourced students. Horizons at NCCS builds deep and lasting relationships with the 400 K–12 Norwalk and Stamford students it serves. The summer program and year-round academic and enrichment programming help students imagine and achieve a brighter future for themselves.

Horizons Supporters Gather for an Evening of Fundraising & Friendship

It was a full house — or rather, Athletics & Wellness Center — as over 330 guests, including alumni, families, faculty, staff, board members and supporters attended the Horizons Recipe for Success Benefit on June 4. The program celebrated the bright futures of Horizons at NCCS students and highlighted the long-term commitment that the organization makes to students and their families. Horizons alumni and staff speakers shared their own reflections on the special ingredients in the Horizons Recipe for Success.

1. There was much to celebrate during the evening, which raised critical funds for Horizons at New Canaan Country School.

2. Carolyn Woodberry, Mara Neafsey, Michele Gartland and Sturges Woodberry

3. Kristie Godina, Johana Flores and Luisa Osorio

4. Stephen Thompson and Ellen Lundquist

5. Kara Cooper, Matt and former Horizons Board President Sanny Burnham Warner ’88

6. Horizons staff members Nehemie Moïse Young and Lavone Roberson

7. Thank you to the creative and dedicated Benefit tri-chairs, Marisa DiBiasio, Sarah Young Kilcullen ’98 and Tori Vartanian, and their stellar committee who worked tirelessly to ensure the evening was a huge success!

8. Isaiah Bien Aime, Lead Teacher Monae Cherry, Junior Program Dean of Students and Culture Tanya Small, Alyssa Thomas, Chiara Askew Oliver and Danny Gutierrez

9. NCCS faculty members Colin and Cindy Thom

10. NCCS and Horizons faculty member Sean Robb was joined by Keri and Jed Stevens ’78.

11. Alex Leach, Devon and Mike Suozzi

12. Sarah Irwin and Katie Rothschild

13. Bill and Barbara Moody, Jennifer Millones, Phil Ruvinsky, Peter Millones and Leigh Kennedy

14. Blanca Velasquez, Kadeem Roberts, Fanny Osorio and Eloisa Melendez

15. Trevor and Carey Ogden

16. The evening’s theme of bright colors was in honor of the bright futures of the Horizons students. Benefit committee members and Horizons development staff included: (back row) Devon Suozzi, Christina Beauclair, Ali DiBiasio, Ellen Lundquist, Polly Grube, Allie Jordan Stinchcomb ’98, Marisa DiBiasio, Ashley Burr, Chelsea Staniar, Johana Flores, Ginny Pracilio, Rebecca Thornton ’92; (front row) Julie Savinelli, Kristie Godina, Brooke Arthur, Morgan Dell’Aquila, Lisa McCarthy, Nancy von Euler, Sarah Young Kilcullen ’98, Tori Vartanian, Sanny Burnham Warner ’88, Tiffany Van Elslander, Jessica Katz, Whitney Mallozzi. Not pictured: Jen Kearney, Colleen Overlock and Ariane Triay and Honorary Chairs Lindsay Kollar, Shoreline Pools, and Carey Ogden, JPMorgan Chase & Co.

Class Notes

1942

Nancy Selinger Summers of St. Louis, MO, passed away on Aug. 22, 2021. Please see In Memoriam.

1944

Priscilla “Peekie” Stevenson Hunt of Lincoln, MA, passed away on April 17, 2021. Please see In Memoriam.

1950

Anne Oliver Jackson of Portland, ME, passed away on Sept. 28, 2021. Please see In Memoriam.

1953

Sandy Garland Bull writes, “At this time, happy to be in the same place and always look forward to a smile or giggle from our classmate Guy Robinson who comes through — snow, sleet or heat. His missiles often include exchanges with Joanie Dominick and Bob Shields (more smiles). Our roots go deep and far. My granddaughter Allison Abbott Bull will be a freshman at Connecticut College this year.”

1 Guy Robinson in Autun, Burgundy, France, April 2022, leading a French Heritage Society (FHS) Trip, as Co-Chair NY Region, FHS Chapter. His wife, Elizabeth Stribling, is Chair of FHS, with offices in Paris & NY and 10 US Chapters. Guy writes, “With new places in Roxbury, CT, and Savannah, GA, we have been in constant motion since the partial lifting of the COVID pall. Returned to France in August for the sixth time in the past 13 months. Still based in Brooklyn Hts. Smack on the water with a grand view of the Statue of Liberty and the entire Manhattan skyline. NCCS held a NT cocktail party here a few years ago. I am in regular e-contact with a number of NCCS classmates, most conspicuously Robert Shields, a fellow PastMaster of Holland Lodge F. & A.M, (1787).

1954

Cathy Crane writes that she is again serving as the president of the City Gardens Club of New York City, Inc. The mission of the Club is to green and beautify New York City in all its boroughs and to teach city kids about the wonders of nature. The Club celebrated its centennial in 2018 by financing and overseeing the restoration and beautification of Harlem’s Morningside Park in an area around its pond and waterfall. This past fall the CGC raised funds to renovate and create a welcoming visitors center at the Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden in Staten Island. The Club’s members/volunteers keep busy!

NO NEWS FROM YOUR CLASS? WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!

Please submit your news and updates to Director of Alumni Affairs Holly Donaldson Casella ’04 at hcasella@countryschool.net or on our website. You can also submit notes via mail using the enclosed return envelope. Share your own news, or tip us off to milestones, news and achievements of classmates, children or others in our community!

1 Guy Robinson ’53

(Pictured above) Ramses Perez ’19, Brian Villalta ’18, Jennifer Llamas ’18, Aaron Watkins ’18 and Maggie Ruvinsky ’19 were among the alumni, faculty and staff who worked at Horizons this past summer.

2 Jennifer Glidden Guberman writes, “My grandkids, Gemma (12) and Luke (10), were an invaluable help in the writing of ‘Chattahoochee Cats.’ It is a fun story for 2nd/3rd graders and for their parents and siblings as well.” Jennifer’s book is now available in the NCCS Library, alongside other Alumni Authors!

Jamie McLane shares, “After our nine years of living on a 53' trawler, plying the waters from the top of Maine to the bottom of FL, Key West, west coast of FL on the Gulf of Mexico, the Bahamas and islands, Meg and I now spend more than half our time in Sarasota, FL, where we are very involved in the local community and racing model Soling sailboats. We also see several classmates from Yale and keep up with Dick Ogden and Laura, who have been spending three winter months in Sarasota for years. Dick is still playing tennis competitively — and successfully. Caught up with Dave Forney last year when in Westport Harbor, MA, for a good friend’s funeral. When not in Cambridge, Dave is in Westport Harbor. We had a wonderful large family gathering, including Greer McLane Hopkins ’56 (still lives in San Francisco), around Tom McLane’s ’46 memorial service last September. Others in NCCS ’54, please add to the Notes. We are a declining herd.”

CALLING ALUMNI AUTHORS

We are restocking our bookshelves. If you have published a book, please send a copy to Director of Alumni Affairs Holly Donaldson Casella ’04.

1955

3 Caroline DuBois Hutton, who got together for lunch with Susan Carr Pickett and Catherine Cody at Cognac in NYC, writes, “Three Little Maids from school… oh so many years after!”

1956

4 Jay Gunther writes, “Here’s a photo of Bea Holden Guthrie and me guarding the Great Pyramid of Cheops during a two week Egyptian tour last October put together by the Society of the Four Arts, Palm Beach.”

1958

5 Tod Ackerly, Lyn Bremer Chivvis ’60 and Eddie Ducey Coggeshall gathered for the funeral service for Dan Bergfeld in September 2021.

1961

Fifi Wharton Holbrook writes, “I have been living in San Francisco for 52 years now. My sister, Lucie Wharton ’65, lives in Woodside, CA, still in the equestrian world, teaching and showing her champion jumper. I am still painting and studying botanical art. I am on the advisory board of the Salvation Army and playing bridge. Sadly I lost my husband of 55 years to cancer on July 13. I see Daphne Walter Bransten ’57 here and she has been our travel agent for years.”

4 Jay Gunther ’56 and Bea Holden Guthrie ’56

3 Caroline DuBois Hutton ’55, Susan Carr Pickett ’55 and Catherine Cody ’55

2 “Chattahoochee Cats” by Jennifer Glidden Guberman ’54

5 Tod Ackerly ’58, Lyn Bremer Chivvis ’60 and Eddie Ducey Coggeshall ’58

1966

6 Carl Rohde continues to be involved with Pegasus Therapeutic Riding in Brewster, NY. In the photo Carl is with a sleepy Zaggy, who is a 16.3 hand Holsteiner mare and talented jumper.

1971

7 Photographer and documentary filmmaker Robert Baldridge and Elizabeth Sheed returned to campus for the Faculty Party on May 13.

1976

We were delighted to see Carl Brodnax return to campus to teach at Horizons over the summer. He shared that he’s still teaching PE and coaching in Bridgeport PS and coaching tennis players after school in South Norwalk.

1977

8 Heather Knight Pech set a new American course record and won her age group for a fourth time running a 3:03:47 (7:01/ mile pace) in the 2022 Boston Marathon. She also coached two dozen runners who completed the race.

Elizabeth “Ebit” Speers passed away on Oct. 16, 2021. Please see In Memoriam.

IN HONOR OF FORMER TEACHERS — FOR FUTURE TEACHERS

The Speers-Stoddard Apprentice Teacher Fund was recently launched in honor of beloved longtime Country School teachers Pat Stoddard (see In Memoriam page 79) and Sue Speers. The fund was set up by their children, Will Speers ’72, Tom Speers ’73, Sam Speers ’75, Ebit Speers ’77, Dan Stoddard ’71, Jane Stoddard Williams ’72 and Alex Stoddard ’75 in support of our long-standing and renowned Apprentice Teacher Program. To learn more about how you can support this wonderful effort, please visit www.countryschool.net/speers-stoddard-fund.

8 Heather Knight Pech ’77

7 Robert Baldridge ’71 and Elizabeth Sheed

6 Carl Rhode ’66

Carl Rhode ’66 joined Lyn Bremer Chivvis ’60 and Beecher Chivvis at the Faculty Party on May 13.

1980

Stephen Billhardt moved from the greater Boston area to Baltimore around Labor Day, and welcomes any local NCCS alumni to be in touch. He writes, “After 27 years of being a school principal, I am not sure what my next job will be. Looking forward to exploring some new opportunities.”

1982

9 Troy Haynie, Mo Vaughn and Peter Forelli captioned this photo of them together in Florida: “The WB Bus rides again!”

1984

10 Erin O’Neill Argueta, Amy Benusis, Tishie Anderson, Astrid Kleinbeck Peters, Lynne Davis Adeyemi, Eden Wright and Keiley Gaston Fuller got together in July 2022. Lynne writes, “What a blessing it was to reconnect and catch up with each and every one of these incredible women! Our lives converged at NCCS over 40+ years ago and it’s amazing that we’ve stayed in touch after all this time. Hope to see more classmates from the class of ’84 in the near future!”

Alumni Award Winner

LISA PIKE SHEEHY ’83

We are pleased to announce that Lisa Pike Sheehy ’83 will be presented the 2022 Alumni Award. Lisa, has worked at Patagonia Inc. for over 18 years, most recently as vice president of Environmental Activism, oversees the implementation of the company’s international environmental grants program, which gave away over $6.6 million in 2014 to grassroots environmental organizations worldwide. Additionally, she leads Patagonia’s multi-year campaigns to publicize environmental issues and mobilize customers. Her work is focused on increasing environmental activism for Patagonia employees and customers through close partnership with the film, marketing and media teams. Before joining Patagonia in 2003, she was the program and membership director for the Environmental Grantmakers Association. She has also worked with the Jackson Hole Conservation Alliance and the Sierra Club in their Washington, DC, office on public lands issues. After serving 10 years on the board of the Outdoor Industry Conservation Alliance, she continues her board service to the Environmental Grantmakers Association, 1% for the Planet and Johnson Ohana Charitable Foundation. Most recently, Lisa received the Outdoor Industry Women’s Coalition Pioneering Woman of the Year Award.

Jane Isaacs Schoenholtz ’80 and Sarah O’Herron Casey ’80 reunited at the Faculty Party held on campus on May 13.

9 Troy Haynie ’82, Mo Vaughn ’82 and Peter Forelli ’82

Barbara van der Kieft Latimer ’85, Troy Haynie ’82 and Josh Ziac ’86

10 Erin O’Neill Argueta ’84, Amy Benusis ’84, Tishie Anderson ’84, Astrid Kleinbeck Peters ’84, Lynne Davis Adeyemi ’84, Eden Wright ’84 and Keiley Gaston Fuller ’84

11 Steve Woolworth has called the Northwest home for more than 25 years. He received a bachelor’s in sociology (criminology) and a master’s in education (cultural and social foundations in education) from the University of Colorado Boulder and a doctorate in educational leadership and policy studies from the University of Washington, and then spent eight years teaching and in administration at Pacific Lutheran University and another eight years at Pioneer Human Services, a Seattle-based nonprofit social enterprise working to address societal challenges.

Since 2020, Steve has been CEO of Evergreen Treatment Services (ETS) a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming the lives of individuals and their communities through innovative and effective addiction and social services in western Washington.

1989

12 Phoebe Knowles writes, “Hey NCCS Alumni! I have recently moved back to New Canaan (strictly speaking, I lived in N. Stamford before so am technically a first-time New Canaanite) and have started a new job as the executive director of the Waveny Park Conservancy. If you’re ever in/around town, please reach out — would love to reconnect! Phoebe.knowles@ wavenyparkconservancy.org.”

1994

Jenne Hatfield Whitelaw writes “Bonjour, my ’94 friends! Last fall we moved from Washington, DC, to Brussels, Belgium. We are all loving European life, and daughters Vivian (10) and Jojo (9) are thriving at their international school where I am the new PTA president. Looking forward to seeing everyone at the next reunion.”

1995

Samar Post Jamali: “Hi there, I am writing from Portland, ME, where my family and I have been living for the past eight years. Our children, Noor (7) and Devens (4), were both born here so perhaps their grandkids will be considered real Mainers! We love Maine and would love to hear from any classmates passing through. I work as a

Members of the Class of 1992 who reunited at the Faculty Party held on campus on May 13 included Bob Anderson, Sarah Nutting, Spencer Mallozzi, Dan Goodfriend, Justin Fisch, Allie Knowles Thompson, Brooke Monahan Fisch and Maria Sette.

12 Phoebe Knowles ’89 and Allie Knowles Thompson ’92 at Waveny Park, New Canaan posing in the Waveny Photobooth Sculpture Installation (by Paul Kopkau).

Banc Jones ’85, Ed Staunton ’85 and Toffer Kleinbeck ’85 reunited for some fishing in Old Saybrook in early October.

11 Jordan, Sherri, Steve Woolworth ’84 and Isaiah.

nurse practitioner and am ready for COVID to make a hasty exit. In the meantime, I’m trying to keep up with our kids. Sending my best to NCCS classmates.”

2001

Rob Crane and wife Carola Lovering welcomed their second child, Lila, joining big brother James, age 2.

Dick Colligan is starring in the Hanging of William Cane, which premiered this fall at festivals, and is performing standup in NYC to benefit Part of the Solution. Follow @DickColligan for all the latest updates!

2002

13 14 BZ Reed Altchek and husband Charles welcomed twins Beatrice Charlotte Altchek and Charles Francois “Fritz” Altchek on April 7, 2022. The twins join big siblings Louis and NCCS Beginners student Gwen Altchek ’32.

2003

15 Hayley O’Donnell Bonesse married Giovanni Bonesse on Oct. 2, 2021, and on Aug. 3, 2022, they welcomed son Luca Lickle Bonesse.

16 Pete D’Agostino and wife Becka welcomed their second son, Wells Robert D’Agostino, on June 1, 2022. The family lives on the Upper East Side in NYC.

17 Will Dyke married Kathleen Godbold on Nov. 13, 2021 at the San Pedro Chapel in Islamorada, FL. Will’s sister Liz Dyke Barker ’98 served as the bride’s matron of honor. Congratulations to the happy couple!

2004

18 Max and Eliza Kontulis Getz welcomed their second child, Charlotte, on Jan. 24, 2022. Charlotte joins big brother George, age 2.

13 BZ Reed Altchek ’02 with husband Charles and children Gwen Altchek ’32, Louis, Beatrice and Fritz.

14 Beatrice and Fritz, twins of BZ Reed Altchek ’02

16 Wells, son of Pete D’Agostino ’03

15 Hayley O’Donnell Bonesse ’03 and family

17 Will Dyke ’03 and wife Kathleen Godbold

18 Charlotte, daughter of Eliza Kontulis Getz ’04

NCCS

GETTING MARRIED?

Let the Alumni Office know so we can send you an NCCS banner for photography! Contact Holly Donaldson Casella ’04 at (203) 801-5687 or hcasella@countryschool.net.

19 20 Charlie Huck married Douglas Atkins on Oct. 9, 2021, in Palm Springs, CA. In addition to Charlie’s sisters Alice Huck and Amelia Huck Manley ’99, NCCS alumni in attendance included Caitlin Maguire Patel, Channing Tookes, Dan Gleason, and Demetri Caminis. Congratulations to the happy couple!

Meg and Marshall Johnson welcomed a daughter, Emmett Leigh, on Jan. 6. See page 67 for picture.

21 Pete and Nikki Magrath-Bongaerts welcomed their first child, Marlien “Marlie” Vandergaw Magrath, on Aug. 25, 2021. Marlie is the granddaughter of Alexandra Bongaerts-DuVal ’72 and the great-granddaughter of Barbara Spaulding ’36

Dan and Hadley Martin McDow welcomed their second child, Hayes Humphreys McDow, on March 15, 2022. Hayes joins big brother Grey.

22 23 Ryann Tookes married Robert Ainsworth on May 28, 2022, with many NCCS alumni in attendance, including siblings

22 Robert Ainsworth and Ryann Tookes ’04

23 Channing Tookes ’04, Christian Tookes ’02, Tessa Tookes ’10, Alice Huck ’04 and Caitlin Maguire Patel ’04 at the wedding of Ryann Tookes ’04.

21 Marlie, daughter of Nikki Magrath-Bongaerts ’04

19 NCCS alumni at the wedding of Charlie Huck ’04

20 Charlie Huck ’04 and husband, Doug

and friends Channing Tookes, Christian Tookes ’02, Tessa Tookes ’10, Alice Huck, Flora Birnbaum and Caitlin Maguire Patel.

24 Steven and Heather Wegner Wald welcomed their second child, Mila Layne Wald, on Aug. 17, 2021. Mila joins big sister Sienna, age 3.

2005

25 Congratulations to Christopher Lemoine and Wonchi Ju who were married April 24 and had a small celebratory gathering that included Fraser Randolph, Holly, Bruce and Bridgette Lemoine ’08 Chris is a third-year surgical resident at UConn Health and Wonchi is a lawyer working in New Haven.

2007

26 Former apprentices Ryan Giggi and Jeannette Leopold welcomed Charlotte Lucella Giggi on May 5, 2022. Proud grandparents are former faculty members Tom Giggi (E/H, sports) and Elaine Young Giggi (math). Noteworthy is that Charlotte’s great-grandmother, Lucella “Lue” Young, taught seventh grade E/H at NCCS from 1978 through 1993! Ryan and Jeannette are lawyers in Boston, but Charlotte is the happy focus of their days now!

2008

27 Irina Racheva and Justin Snyder were married in Morristown, NJ, and live in Manhattan where she works in finance (capital markets — securitization) at RBC and Justin is a software engineer at Google. “We love the city and have been here since we graduated college.”

2009

Max Aliapoulis is engaged to former NCCS apprentice Molly McKennan. The pair met while attending New Canaan High School. Congratulations!

Liz Frank of Houston, TX, passed away on Aug. 20, 2022. Please see In Memoriam.

2010

Emma Merrill writes, “I started this summer as the new Therapeutic Riding Program Coordinator at New Canaan Mounted Troop and would love to get the word out about our newest program!! It is called Little Troopers and is open to

ALL children ages 4–7. The curriculum is structured to familiarize children with our horses, facility, and routines with the goal of preparing them for either our Horsemanship or Super Troopers program. Students will learn the fundamentals of barn safety, equine care, and teamwork through various horse related activities. Registration is available on our website!!”

24 Sienna and Mila, daughters of Heather Wegner Wald ’04

25 Christopher Lemoine ’05 and Wonchi Ju

26 Ryan Giggi ’07 and former apprentice Jeannette Leopold with their daughter, Charlotte.

27 Justin Snyder and Irina Racheva ’08

2011

Cuyler Brodnax is living in Brooklyn with a classmate he met while attending Villanova and a childhood buddy from Stamford. Although he majored in political science and minored in Spanish, he works in the financial world in Manhattan. He hangs out with and keeps in touch with many NCCS and Choate alumni friends.

Alumni Spotlight

Olivia Hompe ’10 named to All-World Team at the 2022 World Lacrosse Women’s Championship; contemplates career next steps

Olivia Hompe ’10 graduated summa cum laude from Princeton University’s Woodrow Wilson School with a certificate in Near Eastern Studies. She was one of two graduates to receive the Class of 1924 Award, which is awarded to one or more seniors whose contribution to a policy seminar has been judged most outstanding. Olivia, the 2017 Terrence A. Elkes Scholar in the Nation’s Service, is proficient in Arabic and focused on security studies in the Middle East and North Africa as an undergraduate. In summer 2016, Olivia worked in the intelligence community in Washington, DC, embedded in a unit that developed both her language and analytical abilities related to the intersection of intelligence and national security. In summer 2015, Olivia interned at Running Start, a nonpartisan nonprofit in Washington dedicated to increasing the number of young women involved in politics. She helped coordinate the activities of the nonprofit and served as a mentor to high school girls interested in political careers.

Olivia was one of five finalists for the Treewarton Award for best female lacrosse player in the U.S. At Class Day, she was one of five athletes sharing the Arthur Lane ’34 Award that honors selfless contribution to sport and society by an undergraduate athlete.

She was recognized for her achievements as Princeton women’s lacrosse all-time leading scorer, a two-year team captain, first-team All-America member and as a “SINSI” (Scholar in the Nation’s Service Initiative). In her role as president of the

in May, receiving the Women’s Law Association’s Shatter the Ceiling Award, given to a member of the HLS community who actively advances racial and gender equity, practices inclusive mentorship and community building, and fosters difficult conversations.

Mayze has accepted a position as a litigation fellow at the Knight First Amendment Institute at Columbia University, followed by clerkships in the United States Court of Appeals for the 2nd Circuit and the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York.

Varsity Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, she promoted diversity and inclusion on campus by implementing the “All Stripes, One Streak” campaign.

Olivia was also a member of the Princeton Women’s Mentorship Program and Princeton Students for Gender Equality and volunteered as an Arabic peer tutor.

During the summer of 2017, Olivia, thanks to her BritishAmerican dual citizenship, was a member of the English women’s national lacrosse team that participated in the World Cup.

Olivia worked at the Defense Department in the Office of Secretary Defense Policy for Afghanistan/Pakistan/Central Asia. She returned to Princeton in fall 2020 and received her master’s in Public Affairs in May 2021. She then took time to train for the Senior Women’s Lacrosse World Championship held in July.

Playing for England once again, Olivia contributed 29 points, including a team-best eight assists and scored the gamewinning goal in the bronze medal game in triple overtime. She was subsequently one of 10 to be named to the All-World Team. As of press time, Olivia was reviewing her career options and is hopeful that coaching will somehow be in the mix.

PHOTO BY ENGLAND LACROSSE, SOURCE MATERIAL COURTESY OF PRINCETON ATHLETICS

28 Mayze Teitler graduated magna cum laude from Harvard Law School

28 Mayze Teitler ’11

Clay Kontulis, who participated in the NCCS Apprentice Teacher Training Program last year, is pursuing a master’s degree in elementary education at Vanderbilt University.

2013

Following his 2020 graduation from Iona College, Charlie Bogus Jr. worked on-staff at NCCS for two years in our Technology Department, and he has accepted a position as a technology support advocate at Bartlett Tree Experts.

Jay Craft graduated from Babson College in 2020, where he concentrated in Sustainability and Operations and earned the History and Society Award. Taking a strong interest in blockchain and cryptocurrency he founded the Babson Blockchain Network, where he engaged guest speakers in the FinTech space and provided educational material for the Babson community. Currently, Jay holds a New York State Real Estate License and works for Legacy Growth Partners, a private equity firm.

Alyssa Thomas graduated from Johns Hopkins University in 2020, where she studied English literature, social policy and computer science. She was a member of several extracurricular groups, including the Caribbean Cultural Society and Students for Justice in Palestine, and was a dancer on Caribbean and Bollywood Fusion dance teams. Today, she works as a technical writer for Palo Alto Networks, a cybersecurity company headquartered in Santa Clara, CA. In her free time, she enjoys lifting, journaling, spending time on Twitter and reading.

Paul Woodberry graduated from Dartmouth College with a degree in quantitative social science and history in June 2021 and is currently working as an investment banking analyst at Sperry, Mitchell & Company.

Emma Zachary, a second grade apprentice teacher in 2021–2022, has returned for another year in the NCCS Apprentice Teacher Training Program.

Alumni Spotlight

Alumni Host Community Panel

Paloma Blandon ’14, Jay Craft ’13 and Alyssa Thomas ’13 hosted an NCCS alumni panel at a communitywide event on Jan. 14. They each shared their personal reflections on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech and how it has resonated in their own lives during and after their time at NCCS. The virtual event was facilitated by Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Kojo Clarke.

2014

29 Paloma Blandon earned a bachelor’s degree in public policy with a specialization in education, as well as a minor in Latin American studies from the University of Chicago. In her senior year she wrote a thesis on restorative practices in Chicago public schools, focusing on the implementation of these policies at the individual teacher level. During her time in college, she was the executive director for the University of Chicago chapter of Woman and Youth Supporting Each Other, a mentorship program for middle school girls in Chicago, and a research assistant at the UChicago Consortium on School Research. She is currently a fifth grade English teacher in the South Bronx and pursuing an MA at Relay Graduate School of Education. In her free time she loves to read, rock climb and crochet.

Christopher Jessup attended The Juilliard School for both pre-college and college, graduating with high honors in 2021. Upcoming engagements include solo recitals at Carnegie Hall, album releases and a performance at the London Festival of Contemporary Church Music. He is currently managed by Lombardo Associates and is living in Manhattan.

CALLING ALUMNI ARTISTS

To be included in an upcoming Alumni Art Show, please contact Director of Alumni Affairs

Holly Donaldson Casella ’04 at hcasella@countryschool.net.

29 Paloma Blandon ’14 reunited with former teacher John Hastings at the Faculty Farewell Party held on campus on May 13.

MUSIC OF COUNTRY SCHOOL

Be sure to check out our NCCS Spotify playlist for new music being released by members of our alumni and school community. To have your music added, please reach out to Holly Donaldson Casella ’04 at hcasella@countryschool.net

Bobby Leonard graduated with a computer engineering degree from the University of Michigan in June 2021. Since then, he has worked as a vehicle security engineer for Nuro, the Californiabased company that develops autonomous delivery vehicles — the first to receive an autonomous exemption from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration since its vehicles are designed to carry goods instead of humans.

30 Margaret McManus graduated from Duke University magna cum laude in May, receiving an inter-departmental bachelor’s degree in visual and media studies and sociology.

Lily von Stade graduated with academic distinction from Colby College where she majored in psychology and education, played varsity ice hockey, was named to the NESCAC Winter All-Academic Team and was on the executive board of the Student Athletic Advisory Committee. Lily spent three summers teaching second grade at Horizons at NCCS and worked a fourth summer at Chelsea Piers as a hockey coach. She currently works as a partnership marketing account executive at the National Hockey League.

2015

31 Emma Alpaugh graduated with academic honors from Trinity College where she was a four-year member of the lacrosse team and was voted MVP her senior year. She was named to the 2022 All-NESCAC First Team, the Intercollegiate Women’s Lacrosse Coaches Association (IWLCA) Division III All-American Third Team and the 2022 IWLCA Division III Berkshire All-Region First Team and the 2022 NESCAC All-Academic Team. Emma is currently in the MBA Program at the University of New Hampshire and on the lacrosse team.

Elizabeth Casey graduated with academic honors from Colgate University where she majored in sociology and earned the Academic Excellence in Sociology Award. She is currently working with Dynamics Search Partners in New York City doing executive search for financial services.

Phoebe Casey graduated magna cum laude from Colgate University where she dual-majored in psychological science and art and art history. She is currently working at Merkley & Partners, an advertising agency, as an assistant media planner, in New York City.

32 Jay Parmelee graduated from Southern Methodist University where he majored in economics with a minor in applied sports management, played club lacrosse and was active in the school’s Energy Club.

33 PJ Sensbach graduated cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from the University of Georgia. He is now living in Atlanta, working as a functional analyst for Itineris, a technology company.

Carson Teitler graduated magna cum laude from Columbia University with a dual degree in theoretical mathematics and art history. His thesis on four dimensional symplectic topology received honors distinction from the Mathematics Department. Carson currently works as a risk analyst for Millennium, a global alternative investment management firm.

31 Lisa, Emma ’15 and Chris Alpaugh

32 Jim, Jay ’15 and Holly Parmelee 33 PJ Sensbach ’15

30 Margaret McManus ’14

34 Avery York graduated from Wake Forest University where she majored in environment and sustainability studies and minored in bioethics, humanities and medicine and psychology.

2016

35 Congratulations Sam Bright on completing basic training and becoming a United States Marine on Aug. 20.

36 Cayden Brodnax is a junior locally at Sacred Heart University playing lacrosse, majoring in sports communication and coaching New Canaan youth.

37 Will Byrne earned academic honors at Bowdoin University and received several athletic accolades during his lacrosse season including All-American honorable mention, Second-Team All-NESCAC and the NESCAC Rookie of the Year Award. He finished the 2022 season with 101 points and 68 goals, one goal shy of the school’s all-time single-season record.

2017

38 Alexandra LeBaron was the winner of the 2021 San Miguel Writers’ Contest in Non-fiction for her short story, “Gima.” The contest is affiliated with the Mexico-based annual writer’s conference and selects the best fiction, nonfiction and poetry to publish. In 2017, she received an honorary mention for the National Scholastic Press Association’s Multimedia Story of the Year. Her work has previously appeared in Sundog Lit and 805 Lit + Art magazine, among others. Alexandra currently attends the University of Chicago where she is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Fundamentals: Issues and Texts with a minor in classical studies.

39 Taylor Mitchell attends Colgate University where she was named to the Patriot League’s 2021–2022 Fall Academic Honor Roll, a recognition for scholarathletes earning a 3.20 GPA or above while playing one of seven specified varsity sports. Taylor is a member of the varsity cross-country team, most recently placing in the top 20 in the 3000 meters in the Alan Connie Invitational, held March 19.

37 Will Byrne ’16

39 Taylor Mitchell ’17

34 Avery York ’15

36 Cayden Brodnax ’16

35 Chris, Sam ’16 and Jana Bright

38 Alexandra LeBaron ’17

CLASS OF 2019

College Destinations

Alex Almeida ...................................................... Middlesex School ’23

Andrew Almeida ................................................ Middlesex School ’23

Annabelle Baird Pratt Institute

Reagan Bajus University College London

Abby Barnett University of Richmond

JB Barr ............................................... Southern Methodist University

J.J. Bautista ........................... Eastern Connecticut State University

Aiden Bertellotti University of Colorado Boulder

Caroline Blouin Greenwich Academy ’23

Margaret Boeschenstein Trinity College

Stanley Bright ..................................................... Berkshire School ’23

Niko Cadoret ...................................................... Brunswick School ’23

Tad Carney Yale University

Cody Comyns Phillips Academy Andover ’23

Ravi Conway Westhill High School ’23

Carl Coridon.......................................................... Villanova University

Anthony Crossman Wesleyan University

Elizabeth Dale Cornell University

Kate Danaher Wake Forest University

Paige Davis University of Michigan Ross School of Business

Jack DeGulis .................................................. Westminster School ’23

Menna Delva University of Pennsylvania

Peter Diorio Westminster School ’23

Mary Duffy Stanford University

Amira El Hattab Georgetown University

Lila-ViVi Fagel ................................................................. Marist College

Lindsay Ferretti Hobart William Smith

Reilly French University of Michigan

Bennett Ghriskey Southern Methodist University

Pippa Gore .......................................................... University of Virginia

Charlie Gosk.................................................. Northeastern University

Max Guan Babson College

Ben Guarini Xavier University

Duke Hagen King School ’23

Ellie Hanson ........................................................... Dartmouth College

Evan Hayes ........................................ University of Colorado Boulder

Piper Henderson University of Pennsylvania

Ella Jennings Texas Christian University

Juliette Johnson Emory University

Logan Johnson................................................. Holderness School ’23

Brendan Keogh ............................................................... Colby College

Bridget Keogh Hamilton College

Andrew Knispel

Georgetown University

Nicholas Lancaster Colgate University

Ava Landis ................................................... University of Connecticut

Kyle Latimer ..................................... University of Colorado Boulder

Andrew MacKenzie Unknown

Layla Magnusen Boston College

Ella Masoudi University of California, Santa Barbara

Alexandra Mathews .......................................... University of Chicago

Byrne Matthews ............................................... College of Charleston

Cort McNichol ....................................................... Syracuse University

Amanda Miller ................................................................. Colby College

Lila Miller Vassar College

Peter Miller Indiana University

Gigi Morgan Greens Farms Academy ’23

Himani Narayan.............................................................Pace University

Caitlin Neafsey ......................................................... Cornell University

Amitav Nott

Tufts University

Sydney Osinloye Pennsylvania State University

Reed Parmelee

University of Richmond

Ram Perez ...........................................................

Devan Phelan .....................................................

University of Virginia

University of Chicago

Mason Pratt St. Luke’s School ’23

Chris Raker

Kitty Rawlings-Green

University of Richmond

Duke University

Thomas Ricciardelli ........................................ Notre Dame University

Olivia Rickers Purdue University

Noah Rizvi

Maggie Ruvinsky

Ella Schoonmaker

Dylan Seth .......................................................

Anna Sheridan

Daniela Soto

University of Indiana

American University

Greenwich Academy ’23

University of Richmond

University of Miami

Middlebury College

Carter Spain Denison University

Tavin Staber Drexel University

Samantha Stevens ......................................... University of Wisconsin

Niki Sulkowski Brunswick School ’23

Gwen Thompson College of Charleston

Caroline Vincent Emory University

Ellie Walker ............................................................... Blair Academy ’23

Connor Walsh ................................................. Georgetown University

Will Warner Purdue University

Henry Welles Unknown

Ryan Werneburg Bucknell University

Seth Yoo ...................................................................... Amherst College

Ella Zea ........................................................... Greenwich Academy ’23

Mason Zea Brunswick School ’23

CLASS OF 2018

Daly Baker

Alex Byrne

Lydia Dormer

Georgetown University

Bowdoin University

University of Connecticut

Abby Fonner ........................................................... Occidental College

Jack Johnson .........................................................Middlebury College

Logan MacLear

Southern Methodist University

Alexis Rodgers Colgate University

Katherine Scarborough

Georgetown University

Will Seiden ............................................................. Fordham University

Charlie Thompson ........................................................ Rollins College

40 Alex Byrne graduated with academic high honors from Berkshire School where he was elected Head School Prefect and captain of the varsity lacrosse team. He was also named to the 2022 Western New England All-League lacrosse team. He attends Bowdoin College.

Jack R. Johnson graduated from the Hotchkiss School, receiving the Centennial Prize, awarded to that senior who, “in the judgment of the seniors and faculty, gained the respect of the community through enthusiasm, vitality, and unselfish generosity to others.”

Jack spent the summer working full time as an intern for the State of Montana, Disaster and Emergency Services Office in Helena, MT, and served as the State Situation Unit Leader within the State Emergency Coordination Center (SECC) for the major flooding in southern Montana, a presidentially declared disaster.

He was responsible for coordinating and organizing situational awareness information from contacts at local, state and federal agencies, confidential federal government data feeds, real-time updates from deployed agency reps, social media and conventional media channels, etc., to paint a common

operating picture of the situation across the state for senior leadership, key decision makers and the general public.

He starts Middlebury College this winter, where he’ll be studying Human Geography, Global Security and Global Health.

It was great to see Christopher Calderwood ’18 when he returned to campus as Tully Newport’s guest on Grandparents & Special Friends Day.

Margaret Boeschenstein graduated with academic honors from Millbrook School where she was a dorm leader and played varsity soccer, ice hockey and lacrosse. Margaret was the recipient of the Headmaster’s Merit Award at the school’s Prize Day. She currently attends Trinity College.

41 Menna Delva graduated with academic honors from Greens Farms Academy where she received a Head of School Distinction, and was awarded entrance to the Tri Music Honors Society and the National Honors Society. She received the Silver Key Scholastic Art and Writing Awards, and the College Board African American Recognition Award. Additionally, Menna was the co-editor-in-chief of Penumbra, the student literary magazine, played varsity basketball and softball, and was the captain of the JV volleyball team. She attends University of Pennsylvania.

41 Menna Delva ’19, co-editor-in-chief of the student literary magazine, spoke at an event honoring its publication.

40 Nicholas ’14, Alex ’18, Lynne, Ben ’21, Will ’16 and Lloyd Byrne

42 Amira El Hattab graduated with academic honors, departmental distinctions and was inducted into the Cum Laude Society at St. Luke’s School. Amira also received the Dartmouth Book Prize, a bronze medal for her performance on the national Spanish Exam, held leadership positions in various extracurricular activities and received a varsity letter for swimming. She attends Georgetown University.

Lila-ViVi Fagel graduated from Wilton High School, earning a PTSA Book Award for Outstanding Achievement in Visual Arts — Fashion and a merit scholarship to attend Marist College.

Bennett Ghriskey graduated with academic honors from the Westminster School, where she founded and led a body positivity and wellness club called the Alliance 4 everyBODY and represented the school as a Black and Gold Admission Ambassador. In addition, she was named captain of the varsity golf team as well as the two-time Founders League Championship varsity field hockey team. She received the 2022 Stephen Harris Squibb Bowl for sportsmanship, consistent effort and inspired performance in golf and the Cowing Art Award for outstanding contribution to art at the school. Bennett attends Southern Methodist University.

Pippa Gore graduated with academic honors from the Santa Barbara High School, where she was invited to become a member of the national honor society and played varsity lacrosse and JV track and field. She participated in community service activities, was the leader of a social activities club and a member of the school’s student government. Pippa attends the University of Virginia.

43 Max Guan graduated with academic honors from Phillips Academy Andover, where he was the senior class representative of the school’s student government. Additionally, he founded the Music Production Club, was a percussionist on Tuesday and Thursday concert bands, a drummer, a dance performer and a board member of SMART Andover (sustainability and technology club). Previously, he had served as a dorm prefect, MSC peer tutor,

45 Kyle Latimer ’19 worked with NCCS Kindergartners as part of her high school’s senior internship program. She is currently studying education and environmental science at University of Colorado Boulder.

a writer for The Phillipian News, STACT board member and was named captain of the JV soccer. Max attends Babson College.

44 Ellie Hanson graduated with high academic honors from St. Paul’s School (New Hampshire) where she was invited to become a member of the Cum Laude Society and received departmental distinctions in humanities, mathematics, science and language. She also played varsity field hockey and lacrosse, JV ice hockey, sang in an a cappella group and the school chorus, and was a school tour guide. Ellie received coaches awards in squash and lacrosse for sportsmanship, character and effort. She attends Dartmouth College.

45 Kyle Latimer graduated with academic honors from Darien High School, where she received the Scholar-Athlete award each year of attendance. Kyle captained Darien’s FCIAC championship field hockey team and played varsity golf. She attends the University of Colorado Boulder where she plans to study education and environmental science.

Layla Magnusen graduated with academic honors from St. Luke’s School, where she received departmental distinctions in English, science, art and language. She captained the varsity tennis team as well as the varsity soccer team that clinched the Fairchester Athletic Association regular title season. She also played at the number one position on the varsity squash team (a sport she first began playing her junior

44 Parker ’22 and Ellie Hanson ’19

43 Max Guan ’19

42 Amira El Hattab ’19

Alumni Spotlight

Amitav Nott ’19 Completes Quantum Computing Independent Study Project

Amitav Nott graduated with academic honors from Rye Country Day School, where he also earned the Senior Science Award, the Computer Science Award, the Glen Robertson Memorial Award (given to that student who has contributed most backstage to the School’s drama program) and the varsity Cross-Country Coaches Award (sportsmanship, character, effort). In addition, Amitav participated in the U.S. Invitational Young Physicists Tournament (USIYPT), an annual physics research and debate tournament for high school students where he presented on behalf of his team the results of their investigation, both experimentally and theoretically, the physics of rope and chain fountains. Amitav attends Tufts University with interest in electrical engineering and theater technology.

As part of an independent study in computer science, Amitav and junior Rohan Malik learned about and engaged with the emerging field of quantum computing, which reinvents the way computers store and process information. For their final project, they created an app called QuantumMessenger. While it resembles other messaging apps, QuantumMessenger messages are fully encrypted using a quantum-computing-based technology that makes it almost impossible for potential bad actors to intercept the message without disrupting the quantum state and alerting the receiver. The app is public and fully functional, and anyone can send and receive messages on the platform by visiting the site at qm.twdl.us and logging in. The project is fully open source, and the code can be found at github.com/anott03/quantummessenger.

year). She received the Storm Award for athletic leadership and performance as well as the Girls’ Tennis Heart of the Storm Award (Commitment and Effort). In postseason play, she made the All-FAA First Team in tennis. Layla will attend Boston College in the fall.

46 Amanda Miller graduated with academic honors from Berkshire School and received the Spirit of Berkshire Award, the Lawrence Thomas Piatelli Prize (to the student whose work ethic, dedication to nobility and gracious living, competitive spirit and heart most closely resemble the actions of Berkshire’s former headmaster) and the Anna S. Barrasch Prize (unselfish interest in people and loyalty). An accomplished athlete, Amanda was named captain of the varsity field hockey and squash teams and received ALL-NEPSAC recognition in field hockey (2022) and ALL-NEPSAC recognition in squash (2019–2020). Athletic awards she earned recently include the George S. Damerel Cup (Most Valuable

Player, Squash) and the Ellis Trophy for Sportsmanship and Spirit (field hockey). Amanda was also elected a school prefect and served as the head of the school’s tour guides. She attends Colby College.

47 Peter Miller graduated with academic honors from Westminster School where he played varsity baseball and was the captain of the varsity squash team. He received the Berry Award (effort and attitude) and Squibb Bowl (sportsmanship). Peter attends Indiana University-Bloomington.

47 Peter Miller ’19

46 Amanda Miller ’19 received recognition for her work ethic, spirit and exemplary character at Berkshire School’s graduation and prize-giving event.

Alumni Spotlight

NCCS Students Receive Media Accolades!

Congratulations to Amanda Miller ’19 and Lindsay Ferretti ’19 for being named “Teens to Watch” by New Canaan, Darien & Rowayton Magazine, and to Kiera Smith ’26, Hunter Harper ’24 and Seth Yoo ’19 who were similarly named “18 under 18” by Bedford, New Canaan Magazine.

Prior recipients include:

Audrey Magnusen ’19

Amitav Nott ’19

Margaret Ruvinsky ’19

Sydney Coffield ’18

Arjun Dayal ’18

Jack Johnson ’18

Olivia Sheridan ’17

Cam Raker ’16

Alexandra Truwit ’15

Bella Bean ’14

Will Wapler ’14

John Fox ’13

ARE YOU GETTING OUR EMAILS?

If not, please send your preferred email address to Director of Alumni Affairs Holly Donaldson Casella ’04 at hcasella@countryschool.net.

Caitlin Neafsey graduated from St. Luke’s School, where she earned the Athlete of Distinction Award for participating in 12 varsity seasons (soccer, squash and lacrosse) and was the captain of the squash team. Caitlin also participated in the visual arts, school publications, the yearbook and as a school tour guide. She attends Cornell University.

Sidney Osinloye graduated with academic honors from Brien McMahon High School where she was active in community service activities and led a school club. A fouryear honors student, Sidney received an IB French Award, AP Literature and Composition Award and honors awards. She attends Pennsylvania State University.

Reed Parmelee graduated from St. Luke’s School with academic honors, received a bronze medal for his performance on the national Spanish Exam, was a co-captain of the varsity tennis team and was honored with the Heart of the Storm Award for Commitment and Effort in tennis. He attends the University of Richmond.

48 Ram Perez graduated with high honors from Brien McMahon High School of Norwalk and represented his class as a student speaker at graduation. While attending BMHS, Ram founded the Wellness & Fitness Club, was a youth lacrosse coach, a captain of the lacrosse and soccer teams and was elected president of the Student Governance Council. A dedicated Horizons at NCCS volunteer, Ram was a featured speaker at the program’s high school graduation ceremony held in the spring and an assistant teacher in the summer program. Ram attends the University of Virginia. For more, please see page 42.

Noah Rizvi graduated with academic honors from St. Luke’s School, where he was a co-captain of the tennis team. He attends the University of Indiana.

Devan Phelan graduated from Rye Country Day School, were he was named a 2021 Community Engagement Fellow for his work with the Norwalk Community College Horizons program, planning a service learning day for Pre-K through Middle School students at Horizons Norwalk Community College, creating a yearbook for the program, and helping with general logistics to keep the program running in the future. He also participated in the U.S. Invitational Young Physicists Tournament (USIYPT), an annual physics research and debate tournament for high school students where he was on the team that presented “A Magnetic Force Law.”

49 Thomas Ricciardelli graduated with academic honors from The Taft School, where he was a member of the student government and captained the varsity hockey and lacrosse teams. Thomas received Taft’s 2022 Stone Award (leadership, consistent high level of performance, perseverance and good sportsmanship), Angier Ice Hockey Trophy, the Ogden Award (lacrosse MVP) and was named Western (lacrosse) Goalie of the Year, an Under Armour All-American and a U.S. Lacrosse All-American. He attends Notre Dame University.

50 Margaret Ruvinsky graduated from King School, where she received the Nancy Cunningham Nickerson Award (commitment to improving the lives of those facing physical and/or spiritual challenges, and having an abiding concern for others) and the Cathy Mishkin King Cares Award, given to the student who engages with joy and enthusiasm in activities that involve helping and working with younger children. Maggie was one of the leaders of the 2022 King Connections, a club that partners with the Children’s Learning Centers of Fairfield County.

49 Thomas Ricciardelli ’19

50 Margaret Ruvinsky ’19

48 Ram Perez ’19

Daniela Soto graduated with academic honors from Rye Country Day School, receiving the Robert Reeser Memorial Award (given to the senior who has displayed a growing interest and talent in math over the years) and the Mary Ann Reichhardt Memorial Award (given to a senior for a combination of outstanding academics and contributions to the school). In addition, she played varsity soccer, founded and led a club called Paws for a Cause that works to increase awareness for animal welfare and led a peer mentoring program that works with middle and upper school girls. Daniela received the Scholastics Gold and Silver Key for the Art and Writing Competition as well as recognition in a Congressional Art Competition. She attends Middlebury College.

Samantha Stevens graduated with academic honors and was invited to join the National Honor Society at Darien High School. She was also inducted into both the Spanish and Science National Honors Societies and received an AP scholar award. She received first place in the Principles of Business Management state competition and competed in the International Career Development Conference in 2021. Additionally, Samantha played varsity soccer and volunteered at the nonprofit agencies Building One Community and the Youth Community Fund of Darien. She also was president of the DECA Business Club and the Rowan Center Student Advisory Council, an organization with the mission of eliminating sexual violence on school campuses by providing insight, information and perspective. Samantha attends the University of Wisconsin Madison.

Ellie Walker is a senior on the academic honor roll and member of the cum laude society at Blair Academy. At the school’s prize day, Ellie received the Edyth Jeffrey Shakespeare Essay Prize, the Junior History Prize and the Global Issues Prize. Previously, she has received the Sophomore English Prize, Sophomore History Prize and has won the Shakespeare Essay Prize three consecutive years. Ellie is a leader in the school’s student government and has been named captain of the varsity crew team.

Ellie led Blair students in a seminar about Bayard Rustin, Martin Luther King Jr.’s

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closest advisor and the man credited with being a chief architect of the 1963 March on Washington. Rustin’s accomplishments are often left out of historic accounts, and Ellie uses her seminar as an opportunity to celebrate his contributions to the civil rights movement and examine why the contributions of influential Black figures who do not meet traditional molds have been disregarded by some historians.

Henry Welles graduated from the Rossall School, a boarding school just north of Manchester and Liverpool (Great Britain), where he spent two years studying and training for a career in professional soccer. Supportive parents Katie and Eric Welles explained that Rossall was particularly attractive because of the school’s partnership with Fleetwood Town FC (a professional team). The partnership allows the Rossall team to train at the Fleetwood Town complex, and in certain cases allows individuals to train with the FTFC academy. Henry, who dreamed of being a professional soccer player since childhood, was named captain of the Rossall varsity team and was selected to represent the u18 English Independent Schools, playing against Scotland and Wales in the winter of 2021–2022.

51 Seth Yoo graduated cum laude, with academic honors from the Brunswick School, where he received the Thomas A. Shields Mathematics Award, the John Van Atta History Prize and the Kulukundis Cup for having the highest academic standing of any student in the school. Additionally, Seth was the co-editor-in-chief of the student newspaper, class valedictorian, captain of the varsity cross country team and a member of the math team that took first place in the Fairfield County Math League. Seth attends Amherst College.

52 Cameron Besaw was named the 2022 Carter Cup champion at Baltusrol on Aug. 2. The Carter Cup is a prestigious, invite-only tournament for top junior golfers. Cameron played 36 holes, scoring even par in the first round and 8 under par in the second round. He beat the next competitor by 10 strokes, had 9 birdies in the second round and 13 birdies for the day. His score of 64 for the second round was the lowest in 20-year tournament history by two strokes.

52 Cameron Besaw ’20

51 Seth Yoo ’19

53 Charlotte Calderwood has committed to furthering her athletic (tennis) and academic career at Davidson College. She is currently a senior at Greens Farms Academy.

54 Maren Frey has been named to the Nova Nine, the Student Leadership Board at Miss Porter’s School, and will be the 2022–2023 Head of Student Activities. In addition to earning high honors academically, Maren is a Global Seminar Series Fellow, a junior advisor, admission’s tour guide and club head. She was also elected captain of the thirds’ soccer team.

On Sept. 14, Parakram Karnik was selected as a semifinalist in the 68th annual National Merit Scholarship Program for his outstanding academic record

and for his superior performance on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. Parakram currently attends Brunswick School.

Sofie Petricone, a senior at Rye Country Day School, was honored at their prize day in June, receiving the Brown University Book Award and recognition for earning the school’s highest score on both the Greek and Latin national World Language exams. In addition to completing her junior year with academic distinctions, she was selected as a Peer Leader and has been named captain of the 2023 varsity tennis team.

2021

55 Walker Bright attended the USA Hockey National Development camp this past summer. A member of the 2006 birth year group, he represented the New England District for the second consecutive year. Walker plays for Mid Fairfield and currently attends Berkshire School.

56 Maisy Ricciardelli has committed to furthering her academic and athletic career at Boston College. Maisy plays varsity field hockey, ice hockey and lacrosse for The Taft School, where she will graduate as a member of the class of 2024.

2022

57 Oliver Johnson, who recently took up competitive swimming, helped the Hotchkiss men’s swim team earn bronze at the 2022 Founders League Championship. In the spring, he received the Coaches Award (boys JV track and field).

TELL US WHAT WE’VE MISSED!

Information was gathered through a variety of sources, including from secondary schools, media outlets and responses to alumni surveys. Please reach out to Director of Alumni Affairs Holly Donaldson Casella ’04 at hcasella@countryschool.net to share additional news.

56 Maisy Ricciardelli ’21

57 Oliver Johnson ’22

55 Walker Bright ’21

53 Charlotte Calderwood ’20

54 Bridget Keogh ’19 and Maren Frey ’20

Faculty & Staff News

Director of Studies Reshan Richards was a panelist at INDEX, an independent school conference, held in Salt Lake City on April 8. The panel, Using Data to Drive Action, discussed how schools use a variety of formats, procedures and tools to collect data and inferences on topics ranging from academic programs to mental health. The purpose of INDEX conferences is to share data, analysis, research and information to aid member schools in decision-making, policy development and strategic planning.

Director of Plus Program Kathy Kravec earned a master’s degree in Conscious Studies and Transpersonal Psychology with a certificate in Coaching with Spirit from The Graduate Institute.

Head of Early Childhood Jeannie Staunton Bean ’83 is enrolled in a yearlong leadership training course offered through the New York State Association of Independent Schools.

NCCS Director of Institutional Research

Kathleen Steinman co-presented Building

Real-Time, Interactive Dashboards with Blackbaud and Power BI to institutional researchers and technology leaders in independent schools at the 2022 Association of Technology Leaders in Independent Schools (ATLIS) Conference held in Orlando, FL, on May 1–4. Her session demonstrated the powerful but little-known way to connect Power BI to Blackbaud to mine and leverage data, glean insights and create interactive dashboards and reports in real-time to better inform strategy at Country School. Kathleen has also been selected for the 2022 Summer Fellows Lab at the Center for Institutional Research in Independent Schools in Washington, DC, in which research practitioners use this intensive work period to build on their technical capacities to pursue research questions specific to their institution.

Faculty professional development opportunities, including graduate coursework, are made possible by financial resources from the Special Professional Development Fund and the Ninth Grade Endowment Fund.

Director of Arts and Performing Arts Teacher for Grades 4 through 9 Andrew Tyson presented at the Connecticut Music Educators Association on March 31. In his presentation, Beyond the Beat: Metronomes in the Classroom, Mr. Tyson acknowledged that many band and chorus directors are pressed for time and it’s not uncommon to sacrifice explicit rhythmic work for repertoire preparation. He outlined the musical skills that could be supported with different metronome-based exercises and discussed how those exercises could be used with whatever warmup music was already being worked on so that a director wouldn’t need to find extra time to do this work.

◂ Grade 3 Teacher

Caroline Weihs and Beginners Associate Teacher Claire DeLaurentis completed their master’s degrees in teaching in early childhood and Assistant Teacher Madeleine Ker ’10 completed her master’s degree in education at Manhattanville College.

▲ Assistant Lower School Science Teacher Colin Thom spent three days in June tagging blacknose, nurse and bonnethead sharks off the coast of Miami as part of Sharks 4 Kids Education Outreach. An enthusiastic scuba diver and captain of the research vessel Spirit of the Sound, based out of Norwalk’s Maritime Aquarium, Mr. Thom is well-known for sharing his extensive knowledge of all-things-sharks with students.

Congratulations

Congratulations to Anthony Young and Horizons Director of Student & Family Support Nehemie Moïse Young who were married in Hamden on Sept. 3.

Former apprentice Molly McKennan (2016) is engaged to Max Aliapoulios ’09. The couple met while attending the same secondary school.

Apprentice Teacher Training & Associate Teacher Program

While Country School is excited to welcome 13 new and 8 returning apprentices and associate teachers to our 2022–2023 academic program, we are delighted to congratulate the 11 who will be departing. We thank them all for their impactful work and wish them well on their professional journeys.

* Caroline Aronowitz (2 years) is teaching Grade 5 homeroom and coaching at Rippowam Cisqua School while also completing her dual master’s degree in general education (grades 1–6) and special education at Bank Street Graduate School of Education.

* Tori Bartlett (1 year) is pursuing a career in education, psychology and law.

* Hailey Biagi (1 year) is working as a recruiter for a firm in Stamford.

* Christy Bottomley (3 years) is teaching 6- through 9-year-olds at the Children’s School in Stamford.

* Monae Cherry (1 year) is teaching Kindergarten at the Waterside School in Stamford and working with Horizons.

* Grace Hardy (2 years) is pursuing a career as a recruiter in New York City.

* Clay Kontulis ’12 (1 year) is pursuing a master’s degree in elementary education at Vanderbilt University.

* Olivia Mao (2 years) is completing a dual master’s degree in general education (grades 1–6) and special education at Bank Street Graduate School of Education in New York.

* Kat Norton ’12 (2 years) is pursuing a master’s degree in anthropology and education at Teachers College, Columbia University.

* Hartel Smith (2 years) is a lead teacher at Wilbraham & Monson Academy, a grades 6–12 boarding and day school in central Massachusetts.

to former Apprentice Teacher Annie Upton Henry (2015–2017) and former Grade 6 Teacher Brayden Henry (2014–2022) who welcomed a daughter, Louisa, on Jan. 4.

▲ Matt and Physical Education Teacher and Coach Cherie Corchard welcomed a daughter, Giavanna Angelina, on May 9.

▲ Oke and US Science Teacher Martha McAndrews welcomed a son, Shea Sullivan, on Dec. 14, 2021.

▲ Meg and Upper School Teacher and Advisor Marshall Johnson ’04 welcomed a daughter, Emmett Leigh, on Jan. 6.

▲ Ryan and Kindergarten Teacher Jessica McKinney welcomed a daughter, Barrett Anne, to the family on Jan. 25. Barrett joins big sisters Abigail and Redden.

▲ Congrats to former Lower School Assistant Science Teacher Timber Pech and Former Apprentice and Teacher Thomas Furbee on their April engagement!

HAVE NEWS TO SHARE?

To provide faculty and staff news and updates, please contact communications@countryschool.net

◂ Former faculty

(1974–1995) celebrated a milestone birthday in Nantucket, surrounded by grandchildren.

member Tom “Mez” Mleczko

▲ Former faculty members Susan Kelsey (1986–2008) and Bob Berwick (1981–2008) joined us for Wednesday’s “fac-staff” lunch on April 27.

▲ NCCS friends, family and current and former faculty in attendance at the April 24 wedding of Christopher Lemoine ’05 and Wonchi Ju included from left to right: Holly Lemoine (1995–2000), Fraser Randolph (1989–2022), Bridgette Lemoine ’08, Wonchi Ju, Dr. Christopher Lemoine ’05 and Director of Academic Records and Technology Teacher Bruce Lemoine

▲ Head of School Aaron and Charlotte Cooper ’23 were joined by Dave Stoller as they finished the 136-mile long Northville-Placid Trail in the Adirondacks over the summer.

▲ Former faculty Hank (1998–2010) and Judy (1995–2014) Rowett celebrated with family including daughters Ellen Rowett ’00 and Monica Rowett ’02, sons-in-law and four grandchildren.

▲ Topsy Post ’66 (1992–2014), Dana Mallozzi (1992–2016) and Betsy Hulme (1991–2014) stopped by campus for lunch and a visit on April 7.

Farewell to Our Dear Colleagues

Lilani

Balasuriya

33 years

Lilani’s approach to education holds equal measures of respect and care for every student. In short, hers has been a classroom of high standards in which students could learn and grow.

It was a daily practice in her classroom that her students always had opportunities to address their feelings and find solutions to be a caring community. It was also a tradition in her classroom that kids had opportunities to share cherished personal items every week and answer questions fielded by their peers. This afforded them the opportunity to be confident in front of an audience; to have their voice heard while being respectful to other voices.

For more than 30 years, she ignited curiosity in hundreds of young students, introducing them to poetry, classical music and a broad range of global perspectives early in their lives. There are generations of NCCS alumni who undoubtedly carry a deep-rooted love of learning with them to this day because of the seeds Lilani planted.

Additionally, she was involved in many facets of the community including teaching in the Horizons program for many summers, and she is the proud parent of Liani ’04 and Pria ’09

Lilani has brought integrity, professionalism and intellect to her practice with children, parents and colleagues. Her passion for the ideals of Country School shine through and foster community and connectedness.

Lilani has relocated to Florida with her husband, Roy. We wish her the very best as she begins this new chapter.

“At Country School, we don’t teach … we stimulate the desire for curiosity. We feed the insatiable appetite for knowledge. We don’t engage in didactics. We engage in nourishing the child. … The answers already lie within them. We just lead them there.”

—Lilani Balasuriya

Fraser Randolph 33 years

Fraser started out his career teaching eighth grade in the Danbury public school system. A family friend whose children attended NCCS “harangued” him (his words) to apply for a job at Country School. When he finally took the advice and wrote to then-Head of School Nick Thacher, it turned out there was an opening in fifth grade. Fraser told Nick he would “try it” for a year. Thirty-three years later, hundreds of NCCS students, families and colleagues are certainly grateful he decided to make the switch.

Fraser epitomizes the experiential, hands-on approach that is such a quintessential element of a Country School education. Whether he is up on top of the Middle School roof for an egg drop or out in the field launching rockets, one can hear Fraser shouting with excitement right alongside his students. He always travels with a pack of trivia cards that can be pulled out for a quick

quiz at a moment’s notice and a camera to capture the ways he sees his students shine. These are just a few of the skillful ways Fraser helps students feel included, welcomed and celebrated.

As a sixth grade teacher, a Horizons teacher for more than 20 years, and basketball and baseball coach, Fraser is beloved by students and colleagues: In 1993–1994, he served as a faculty representative to the Board of Trustees; in 2002, his students nominated him for USA Today’s “Top 20” teachers; in 2010, he was chosen by his colleagues as a Faculty Chair.

An avid photographer with an eye for capturing authentic student joy, this year he focused his teaching on photography in our Arts Department and assisted in various classes and athletics, including coaching baseball and running his famous boat project for the entire sixth grade. As Fraser retires, we are certainly hoping he will remain near NCCS to take some photos, teach some math, ask some trivia questions, and generally bring his enthusiasm for the students to campus.

Michal Speck 36 years

Michal Speck nearly evenly divided her time at NCCS between teaching physical education (her first 16 years) and third grade (the most recent 20 years). One only needs to spend a few moments in her classroom to understand the ways that her background in physical education impacts the learning environment. Her students are active and engaged; each one knows their assignment and has the support they need to pursue their goal. Her students practice and practice and then they practice some more.

One of the first people on campus each morning (along with Fraser Randolph), Michal has always been an active and engaged member of the faculty. A natural

leader, Michal is quick with a well-timed joke to lighten the mood or a thoughtful question to ignite a dialogue. She has served as a representative to the Board of Trustees and on various committees in support of faculty compensation and benefits.

The intentional care that Michal brings to her class, spending hours redesigning the classroom layout and planning lessons for her students, extends to the third grade curriculum, much of which she has had a hand in developing. No matter the nature of the planning, she keeps the students at the heart of all her preparation, even displaying photos of herself in third grade to remind her adult self what it is like to be the age of those in her care.

Michal and her beloved dog, Molly, have relocated to Delaware to be closer to family.

Dave Stoller 40 years

In many ways, Dave Stoller is the ultimate renaissance man. In his 40 years at NCCS, Dave has taught science, math, woodshop, technology, maple sugaring and even word processing classes here. He has coached basketball, football and lacrosse and chaperoned trips on the Appalachian Trail and to Nantucket.

He was also the school’s first technology coordinator and is currently the Director of Technology. Beyond that, he has been the health office and emergency services backup, was a faculty representative to the Board of Trustees, and is our resident meteorologist, often kind enough to answer 4 a.m. texts in the winter!

Patient, kind, funny and enthusiastic, Dave is always willing to lend a hand, whether it is something that is just not working or a new project in most any area, particularly those involving building, design, environmentalism, or technology. Many have a story of how Dave came to their rescue when they lost a file, when their email crashed or when their computer just stopped “working,” and many know that his willingness to help out does not recognize the normal bounds of our campus or of the work week or even the school year.

Though he came to NCCS before there were any computers on campus, it is the commitment and talent of people like Dave who have helped the school evolve and transition, responding to changes in the world and reinventing itself in ways that deepen its impact on our students.

Dave has joined wife Sue (who retired last year from Long Ridge School) in the Syracuse area to be closer to their children, Katie ’99 and Mike ’03, two grandsons and their beloved Adirondack camp, dock, boat and fly-fishing gear.

Farewell to Our Dear Colleagues, continued

Meegan Horn joined us 11 years ago as an apprentice teacher.

In 2014, Meegan became the PE teacher for Grades K–4, coached field hockey, soccer, paddle, volleyball, pickleball and lacrosse, and has overseen the annual Blue/White Field Day, along with numerous community days. She and her husband relocated to Raleigh, NC, for his work and she teaches PE and coaches at Ravenscroft School.

Stefan Borowski began his time at Country School as an apprentice teacher for two years and then became the Assistant Director of Athletics and Co-Director of the Apprentice Teacher Training Program. Over the past 10 years, Stefan taught physical education in Grades 3–4, coached Middle and Upper School soccer, basketball, lacrosse and fitness, and hired our apprentices. Stefan and his fiance relocated to Virginia to be closer to family. He is a Lower School physical education teacher and coach in the Middle and Upper School at Flint Hill School in Oakton, VA.

Ellen Baer joined us eight years ago as a performing arts teacher, working in multiple divisions. Additionally, she was instrumental in the Lower School assembly program, working with our Grade 4 announcers, helping them to hone their public speaking voices. Ellen hopes to pursue a slower-paced teaching schedule, possibly with part-time work and private music lessons.

Brayden Henry joined us eight years ago as an apprentice teacher for three years before moving into the sixth grade classroom as a homeroom teacher. Brayden served as a faculty representative to the Board of Trustees, a DEI Facilitator, and a coach of football and basketball. Brayden now works at Fairfield Country Day School.

Brooke Kelly arrived at Country School as an apprentice teacher in 2015 and became a Grade 6 homeroom teacher three years later. During her time at NCCS, she coached Middle School field hockey and softball and served as the ELA Program Coordinator for grades 6–9. Brooke and her fiance have relocated to Chicago where she teaches at North Shore Country Day.

Pam Safford joined us six years ago as the Director of Enrollment Management & Financial Aid and departed for a position as Assistant Head for Admission and Enrollment at her alma mater, The Ethel Walker School.

Rebecca Comizio served for five years as the Early Childhood and Lower School psychologist. She was instrumental in helping all our students, faculty, and the entire community find paths to wellness. Although Becca and her husband relocated to Florida for his work, she plans to stay on as a consultant to Country School while also pursuing her doctorate in clinical child, adolescent and family psychology at Nova Southeastern in Fort Lauderdale.

Rinku Ghadiyali worked in our Plus Program for the last four years as a substitute teacher, Middle School flag football and lacrosse coach, and as a Plus Program assistant in which he led computer coding classes.

Jen Gifford joined the Advancement Office three years ago as the Database Manager. She took on a new role closer to home as a database manager at Yale Law School.

Victor Catano joined us two years ago as Chief Financial Officer, bringing joy and enthusiasm to the Business Office. He continues to manage his family’s restaurant, Catano’s Cocina, in Shelton and develop other entrepreneurial opportunities.

Charles Bogus Jr. ’13 worked in our Technology Department for two years and accepted a position as a technology support advocate at Bartlett Tree Experts.

James Whittemore joined us two years ago as the Upper School Latin teacher, an advisor and coach. James returned to his alma mater, Brunswick School, to teach high school English.

Elizabeth Anderson joined us in 2021 as a substitute teacher in Grade 1, but ended up successfully leading the classroom for the entire school year.

Devika Bodas joined the Upper School in 2021 as a long-term substitute, teaching Grade 9 biology. She accepted a position teaching science and nutrition at Greenwich Country Day School.

Welcome to Our New Colleagues & Congratulations on New Roles!

Beth O’Brien Director of Enrollment Management and Financial Aid

We are pleased to announce that Beth O’Brien, who has been our Head of Early Childhood for the past 10 years, is our new Director of Enrollment Management, and alumna Jeannie Staunton Bean ’83, who has been a member of the Early Childhood teaching team for the past 15 years, is our new Head of Early Childhood.

Beth joined Country School as an apprentice teacher 22 years ago and has served the school in a variety of teaching and administrative positions, including in the admissions office, prior to becoming our Head of Early Childhood in 2012. Beth’s unquestioned expertise in child development, her commitment to Country School’s mission and the strong connections she so easily forms with families make this a natural transition.

A graduate of Bucknell University, Beth received her Elementary Certification from Center for Montessori Education and has done graduate work at Bank Street College of Education and the Leadership Institute at Teachers College, Columbia University. Previously, she served as a lead elementary school teacher in Seattle and at the Windward School in White Plains, New York. Beth is a frequent speaker to parent groups and organizations, providing research-based insights as well as clearly articulated action-steps parents can implement at home to promote positive child development.

Staunton Bean ’83 Head of Early Childhood

An alumna of Country School’s Class of 1983, Jeannie returned to NCCS in the Beginners program in 2008 as an assistant teacher, and in 2011 moved into the role of lead teacher.

In 2015, Jeannie was awarded the Williams Family Faculty Chair, which recognizes exceptional full-time faculty who demonstrate a commitment to engaging and inspiring students, creating curriculum to reach all learners and seeking ongoing professional development. Jeannie served as co-chair of the English department from 2014 to 2016, was one of four faculty members chosen to travel to Finland in 2015 to learn more about the renowned Nordic educational system, and has served as a faculty representative to the Board of Trustees.

She has been an avid admissions ambassador, allowing her to share her deep love of Country School. The classrooms and fields run deep for Jeannie; as our mission has shaped and influenced not only Jeannie’s four siblings in the late ’70s into the mid ’80s, but her own family as well, including her husband, Chris, also a member of the Class of 1983, and her three children, Bella ’14, Anna ’15 and Finley ’17

Prior to joining NCCS, she was a Pre-K lead teacher and assistant director of Admissions for Putnam Indian Field School. She received a B.S. in Education from the University of Vermont, a M.S. in Reading from College of New Rochelle, and was trained in the Orton-Gillingham method at the Windward Teacher Training Institute.

Jeannie

Anne Marie Schettini-Lynch Chief Financial and Operations Officer

Anne Marie joins us from Iona College where for the past nine years she was the senior vice president for Finance and Administration. As a senior leader and officer of the college, she was responsible for leading more than 100 employees in the areas of finance, student financial services and business services. She holds a Master of Business Administration degree from St. John’s University and a B.A. in Accounting and Information Systems from Queens College.

Also joining us or taking new responsibilities are:

* Aron Back and Freddy Gavidia, Interim Co-Directors of Technology

* Lindsey Brown, Grade 1 Teacher

* Sam Charwat, Apprentice Teacher

* Kendall Cornine, PE Assistant Teacher

* Hali Dorfman, Upper School Learning Resources Teacher and Coach

* Camden Fort, Apprentice Teacher

* Katie Gallagher, Apprentice Teacher

* Ella Girling, Apprentice Teacher

* Maggie Gutman, Upper School Latin Teacher

* Brandy Hearn, Grade 6 Social Studies Teacher, Homeroom Advisor and Coach

* Brook Heston, Apprentice Teacher

* Kristin Keneally, Beginners Assistant Teacher

* Sophie Kennen, Apprentice Teacher

* Keri Kern, Director of Athletics and Physical Education

* Madeleine Ker ’10, Beginners 4/5 Assistant and Plus Program Assistant

* Alexa Leon, Apprentice Teacher

* Daniel Lepoutre, Apprentice Teacher

* Cheryl Long, Apprentice Teacher

* Katherine Medina, Apprentice Teacher

* Madison Paradis, Apprentice Teacher

* Winter Quisgard, Academic Technology Integrator

* Lacey Ramsey, Learning Resources Teacher and Director of Apprentice Teacher Training Program

* Byron Reding, Physical Education and Coach

* Brooke Cavanaugh Reed ’01, Advancement and Alumni Associate

* Caroline Reilly, Grade 3 Teacher

* Maya Rideout, Apprentice Teacher

* Emily Schoonmaker, Beginners 4/5 Teacher

* Danielle Service, Upper School English Teacher

* Kelly Siegrist, Psychologist in Early Childhood and Lower School

* Nika Skvir-Maliakal, Grade 6 English Teacher, Homeroom Advisor and Coach

* Jen Thiemann, Lower School Music and Movement Teacher

* Jay Thornhill, Assistant Athletic Director and Physical Education Teacher and Coach

* Andy Tyson, Director of Arts and Performing Arts Teacher for Grades 4 through 9

* Liz Unger, Beginners 3/4 Lead Teacher

* Tara Vandenbosch, Health Office Assistant and Athletic Trainer

* Courtney Wandelt, Apprentice Teacher

* Caroline Weihs, Grade 3 Teacher

In Memoriam

We offer the deepest condolences to the family and friends of the following members of our extended school community. You may submit a notice on the website or contact Director of Alumni Affairs Holly Donaldson Casella ’04 at hcasella@countryschool.net directly.

Alumni

Nancy Selinger

Summers ’42, 94, died peacefully Aug. 22, 2021, surrounded by family.

Following Country School, she attended Abbot Academy in Andover, MA, and graduated from Wells College in Aurora, NY. She earned a dual master’s degree in Organ and Composition from the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, NY. She was organist and choir director for several churches in Connecticut and St. Louis and gave piano lessons and taught music in public schools. In later years, she enjoyed spending time with her family and dogs, gardening, traveling and participating in a piano club. She was a supporter and volunteer to numerous local musical and philanthropic organizations.

Nancy is survived by her children Richard and Kimberly, granddaughters Jessica Farwell and Taylor Farwell, and great grandson David Farwell. She is predeceased by her sister Beverly Buder ’39 and her husband of 56 years, Richard S. Summers.

The family asks that any donations made in Nancy’s memory be made to St. Louis Symphony or the Humane Society of Missouri.

Priscilla “Peekie”

Stevenson Hunt ’44

passed away April 17, 2021, surrounded by her children, at Care Dimensions Hospice in Lincoln, MA. She is predeceased by her husband of 65 years, Richard M. Hunt, who died in April 2020.

During World War II, while attending Country School, Priscilla and her sister Helen lived with their grandmother while their parents were overseas, her father heading American Red Cross operations in Great Britain, North Africa, and Italy; her mother tending the troops and later authoring I Knew Your Soldier, released in 1946.

Following Country School, Priscilla attended the Putney School in Vermont and graduated from Oberlin College

where her father was then president. She subsequently worked at the United Nations in New York City. During the 1960s, Priscilla traveled with a group of volunteers through Alabama to promote Black voting rights, and remained devoted to the cause and the Southern Poverty Law Center.

She was also dedicated to and volunteered much time at the League of Women Voters and FamilyAid Boston, formerly known as Travelers Aid. With husband Rick heavily committed to his teaching and administrative responsibilities at Harvard, Priscilla found her own niche as a docent at the Harvard Art Museums, the Sackler Museum in particular. She was also an accomplished pianist and enthusiastic tennis player.

Priscilla leaves behind daughter Helen Bouscaren (Cambridge, MA), daughter Sue Hollingsworth (Shaker Heights, OH), son Bill Hunt (Pittsburgh, PA), and eight grandchildren. The family asks that any donations made in Priscilla’s memory be directed to FamilyAid of Boston.

Anne Oliver Jackson ’50 passed away Sept. 28, 2021, in Portland, ME, surrounded by family. Following Country School, Anne attended Abbot Academy and earned a B.A. in Government at Smith College in 1957. Anne was a “forever learner” and an accomplished civic leader who worked to strengthen the governance of educational and philanthropic institutions. In the late 1970s, she became the first female board chair of Sewickley Academy and served as vice chair of the board of governors of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education. After moving to Maine a decade later, she launched her own consulting business advising nonprofit leaders on strategic planning and board governance. She co-founded The Board Network, which recruited and trained nonprofit board members, and served as board chair of the Maine Community Foundation and president of the Portland Museum of Art, as well as a board member at Phillips Academy Andover, Phillips Academy

Exeter, Waynflete, Kieve Wavus and Hurricane Island Outward Bound School. Colleagues and friends remember her gentle, focused way of engaging with others; her insight into complicated interpersonal dynamics and her ability to get a lot done while also having a good time. As a civic leader, Anne focused on the process of decision-making as much as on the result. She helped nonprofit boards diversify their membership and develop into more than the sum of their parts. She is survived by her four children: Lee Warner (Hans Warner, children Chase and Morgan) of Portland, Bill Jackson (Jackie Holen, children Claire and Arlena) of San Francisco, Carol Miller (children Seth, Annie, and Will) of Portland, and David Jackson (Kathrin Jackson, children Isabel and Oliver) of Seattle, as well as sister Peggy Hedeman ’53 and brothers David Oliver ’57 (Christina Oliver) and Tom Oliver ’57 (Ann Oliver), and Simba, the last of a long line of yellow labs.

Anne is predeceased by her husband of 63-years, William R. “Dick” Jackson. Memorial gifts in Anne’s honor may be made to Preble Street (preblestreet.org), an organization dedicated to empowering people experiencing homelessness and poverty in Maine, or to the Maine Coast Heritage Trust (mcht.org) an organization dedicated to keeping the Maine coast healthy, open and beautiful.

Elizabeth “Ebit” Speers ’77 died peacefully, surrounded by family, Oct. 16, 2021, following a 30-year battle with cancer. After graduation from Country School, Ebit attended the Emma Willard School and Connecticut College.

A gifted and tenacious lifelong athlete, she excelled at field hockey, lacrosse and tennis. Her favorite activities included walking with friends, playing tennis, hiking in the mountains, and being at her beloved Squam Lake in New Hampshire. After college, she worked in advertising in New York and Boston. When she and her

Jill Stevens, wife of former Country School Headmaster George E. Stevens (1963–1979) and mother of Link ’74, Scott ’76 and Jed ’78, grandmother of Nick, Abby, Will, Natalie, Jackson, Gretchen, Emma ’13, Walker ’15 and Nate ’17, and great-grandmother of George W. Stevens, passed away peacefully at home in New Canaan on Oct. 30. She was 89 years old.

Jill was deeply involved in the life of the school and of New Canaan. She loved to entertain, taught cooking classes, played tennis and golf and served on the Planned Parenthood Board. Westminster School of Simsbury, CT, to which her sons matriculated, asked her to join their Board of Trustees, a position she held for eleven years. Upon her retirement, she was appointed a member of the founding session of Westminster Fellows.

For many years, Jill was also a member of the Board of Directors and later on the Board of Governors of Horizons at New Canaan Country School, a program providing academic and enrichment activities for underserved children, which was founded by George and a consortium of like-minded Country School faculty and parents in 1964.

husband moved to Southern California, she found great purpose and satisfaction in working in development at the Marlborough School, an all-girls high school in Los Angeles.

Ebit was a committed volunteer, serving with quiet dedication for her schools, her churches and civic organizations. She served on the Emma Willard Alumnae Association Council for many years and co-chaired their Annual Fund for two years. She served on the board of the United Way of Acton-Boxborough (MA) for many years, culminating in three years as its president.

A natural leader, she led through dedicated hard work and always with kindness, making sure everyone was heard and represented, always striving for harmony and consensus. She is remembered by friends and family as a consummate connector of people. She remembered every birthday, anniversary and small detail people shared. She was an exceptional listener and confidant, always available, always with an empathetic ear, a welcoming smile, a twinkle in her eyes and an easy laugh.

Ebit is survived by her husband of 33 years, David McCormick; children Sam and Ellen McCormick; mother, former NCCS faculty member Susan Speers; brothers and their spouses, Will Speers ’72 (Heidi Rowe), Tom Speers ’73 (Bessie Speers), and Sam Speers ’75 (Lisa Brawley); nine nephews and nieces; one grand-nephew. She is predeceased

Jill is remembered by faculty, staff, friends, alumni and past parents as loyal, thoughtful, gracious and caring — with a marvelous chuckle and impish sense of fun. She could often be found on the sidelines of a rink or athletic field, planning a meal train for an ailing faculty member or walking the campus with the family’s golden labrador, Maile. She took pleasure in making “Gatehouse,” on the corner of Frogtown Road and Ponus Ridge, a gracious home and took joy in decorating and gardening, frequently bringing bouquets of cut flowers to the school’s front desk or a special event.

She was predeceased in 2009 by George, following 52 years of marriage and by her older brother, John C. Walker, Jr. In addition to those previously mentioned, she is survived by Jodi Hill (Link) of South Portland, Amy Stevens (Scott) of Simsbury, CT and Former Director of Horizons at NCCS Kerry Stevens (Jed) of Rowayton. Services will be held at a later date. Condolences may be sent to 8 St. James Place, Rowayton, CT 06853 c/o Jed Stevens. The family gratefully welcomes any donations in Jill’s memory to Horizons at New Canaan Country School, 635 Frogtown Road, New Canaan, CT 06840 or www.horizonskids.org.

by her father, the Reverend Gutherie Speers. Memorials in her honor may be made to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (dana-farber.org) or the Adenoid Cystic Cancer Research Foundation (accrf.org).

Elizabeth “Liz” Sherwood

Frank ’09, 27, of Houston, passed away Aug. 20. Following Country School, Liz attended Greenwich Academy where she pursued her many academic and athletic passions including gymnastics. While her favorite event was uneven bars, she also loved the vault, floor, and balance beam. Liz attained Level 8/10 and medaled in numerous competitions around the country. Liz had to conclude her gymnastics career following injuries suffered in her early teens and when the development of an autoimmune condition curtailed her athletic activities, she channeled her energy toward intellectual pursuits, especially mathematics. During her senior year of secondary school, Liz won the Leo J. Whelton Award for excellence in mathematics, the Upper School Science Department Award, and the Spanish Language Award. She was also a two-year member of the Cum Laude Society.

Liz continued to pursue her passion for mathematics at Williams College, even as she followed a pre-medical course of study. In 2014, Liz won the Erastus C. Benedict Math Prize. In her senior year, Liz wrote and defended a thesis entitled “Blowing Up Toric Varieties with Multidimensional Continued Fractions.” Liz graduated Magna Cum Laude with Honors in Mathematics in 2016. Wishing to gain real-world experience prior to medical school, Liz joined Dana Farber Center for Pediatric Cancer Therapeutics in Boston. Performing statistical data analysis in support of childhood cancer research, Liz was co-author on five published scholarly articles.

Taking the next step in her journey, Liz matriculated at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston and was in her fourth year of study, planning to specialize in pediatric oncology after graduation. Liz saw a career in pediatrics as the natural progression of her lifelong devotion to caring for children. She was in the process of applying to pediatric residency programs at the time of her passing.

Liz is survived by her parents Jane and Stephen, her sister Caroline ’11, her brother Will ’06 and his fiancée Avani Madappa.

The family asks that you please consider supporting childhood cancer research in Liz’s memory by donating to Alex’s Lemonade Stand. To make a contribution, please navigate to Liz’s online memorial page: www.alexslemonade.org/mypage/3124191.

Faculty & Staff

Adelaide “Muffy” Gifford, age 94, passed away peacefully on July 17 at Mountain Vista Memory Care in Wheat Ridge, Colorado. She was a mother first and foremost, but was also a Country School librarian (1972–1992), where husband Garret “Garry” Gifford was on the faculty for over two decades. Muffy was a voracious reader and enjoyed sharing her knowledge of books with others. She also loved to knit and needlepoint. Her knitted sweaters and hats were and still are infamous for their unique proportions and styles.

After retiring from Country School, she and Garry spent a year volunteer-teaching at the Wilson School in Jackson Hole, WY. They then moved to Weaverville, NC, where she continued to play golf, hike the Blue Ridge Mountains, take continuing education classes at UNC-Asheville and volunteer as a docent at the Biltmore Estate. In the early 2000s they moved to Colorado to be close to their two sons and grandchildren.

She is survived by Garry, her children, Garret A. Gifford Jr. ’74 (Kim); Lesley Gifford Gibson ’76 (Craig); and Donald S. Gifford ’79 (Julie); and eight grandchildren.

Condolences should be sent to G.A. Gifford, 11800 W 49th Ave. Room 206, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033.

Carolyn “Lyn”

McNaught died at home on Oct. 4, 2022, after a gallant fight with congestive heart failure and a number of other ailments.

Lyn attended the Thomas School, Rosemary Hall School in Greenwich, and later Smith College, from which she graduated in 1959. After teaching at the Buckingham School in Cambridge, MA, for several years, Lyn moved to New York City in 1963 to teach at St. Bernard’s School for Boys, where she met husband, Michael. They were married in 1966 and both continued to teach at St. Bernard’s until 1968. In that year Michael accepted a job as Headmaster of the Berkshire Country Day School in Lenox, MA, where they remained until 1975.

Lyn first arrived at Country School in 1976 with Michael who had accepted the position of Head of Upper School. Two years later, she took over as the executive director of the Horizons Student Enrichment Program, at that time a summer

academic enrichment program for underserved children in Fairfield County held every year on the school’s campus. During her subsequent 27 years as director, Lyn saw over 2,000 students go through the program and raised millions of dollars to put Horizons at New Canaan Country School on a sound financial footing.

In 1995, Lyn founded the Horizons National Student Enrichment Program and became its first executive director. Upon her retirement in 2003 she joined the Horizons National board of directors, a position she held at the time of her death. By summer of 2022, Horizons National had 74 affiliate programs in 21 states and Washington, DC, and served over 6,500 students.

On retiring to Falmouth, MA, in 2004, Lyn took her passion for education and children to the Falmouth Education Foundation, where she served as a board member and de facto development director until 2017, when legal blindness caused by macular degeneration severely limited her activities.

Lyn is survived by her husband of 56 years, Michael (NCCS 1976–2004); son Andrew ’84, daughter-in-law Natasha Murphy and five-year old granddaughter Maggie; daughter Marnie McNaught Hinze ’87, her husband Mark, and grandchildren Carter and Charlotte. Burial will be private, but a celebration of Lyn’s life and legacy will be held in Falmouth in the spring.

We offer our condolences to the family and friends of the following members of our extended community:

Stephanie Antoszewski

Mother of Claire ’90 and James ’95

Nancy Bean

Mother of Kerin Bean Grall ’80, Chris ’83 and Kevan ’87, mother-in-law of Jeannie Staunton Bean ’83, grandmother of Bella ’14, Anna ’15 and Finley ’17

Arthur Bettauer

Father of Karen Bettauer Harris ’77 and Nic Carson-Bettauer ’77

Clarence W. Brodnax

Father of Carl ’76, Chanda Brodnax-Nino ’80 and Cheryl Talley ’80, grandfather of Cuyler ’11 and Cayden ’16

Allison Caesar

Mother of Pete Caesar ’61 and Brew Caesar ’65

John Herdeg

Father-in-law of Cara Burnham Herdeg ’86, grandfather of Emma ’18, Benjamin ’20 and Sam ’24

Richard Irwin

Grandfather of Caroline ’25 and Henry ’25

Jill Iscol

Mother of Zach ’94 and Kiva ’96

Lucille King

Mother of Larry ’70 and Peter ’75

Janecke Madsen

Mother of Peter ’76, and step-sister of Karen Naess Budd ’55, Astrid Naess Gifford ’57, and Fred Naess ’64

Patricia Reighley

Mother of Jill Christensen ’66, Nancy Cavanaugh ’68 and Bill Reighley ’72, grandmother of Jen Moroney ’00, Brooke Reed ’01 and Allie Cavanaugh ’05

Elizabeth “Tippy” Shutkin

Mother of Kathie Mandel ’78, Bill ’80 and Nancy Portman ’83, grandmother of Julia Mandel ’12

Christine Smith

Mother of Sarah Smith Betz ’93

Robert White

Father of Katie Welles ’78, Andrew ’82 and David ’82, grandfather of Elsie Welles ’17 and Henry Welles ’19

In lieu of flowers or cards, please consider a donation in Lyn’s memory to either of the institutions which were the center of her life: Horizons National Student Enrichment Program, 120 Post Road West, Suite 202, Westport, CT. 06880, or online at www.horizonsnational.org; or the Falmouth Education Foundation, PO Box 1061, Falmouth, MA 02541, or online at www.falmoutheducationfnd.org

Margaret “Molly” Peckham passed on Aug. 17, 2022, in her home at Meadow Ridge, in Redding. After receiving a master’s in literature from Columbia University, Molly taught English at Rosemary Hall and then worked at the New Canaan Bookstore. She joined the Country School faculty in 1979 where she taught Latin and Classics until 1999.

Following an amicable divorce in 1981, she began a lifetime of psychological and spiritual exploration. During subsequent years Molly courageously undertook intensive therapy in an effort to overcome childhood and intergenerational trauma. In 1982, she joined the Benedictine Grange in Redding, CT an inclusive Catholic spiritual community of which she was an active member until her passing.

In 1999, Molly took a sabbatical from the Country School and used it to teach English to Tibetan refugees in Dharamsala, India. She stayed in Dharamsala after her sabbatical to co-author a textbook on Tibetan history for Tibetan refugee children under commission by the Dalai Lama’s sister. From Dharamsala, Molly then went to Kathmandu where she practiced Tibetan Buddhism with Lama Kalsang for more than a decade.

Molly returned to New Canaan during the annual monsoon seasons to be with family and friends, and she began teaching English as a second language at Norwalk Community College. Empowering immigrants from a diversity of backgrounds and cultures to master English and realize their American dream was, perhaps, her most fulfilling work.

She is survived by her daughter Margie Peckham Depew ’83; her son Hoyt Peckham Jr. ’88 and granddaughters Marina, Isabel and Anaís of Hoyo de Manzanares, Spain, and by her siblings Jim, Sally, and Bill Drake of Maine and Anne Mowat of Oregon.

Memories may be posted at www.boutonfuneralhome.com. Please,

no flowers unless you pick them yourself as Molly always appreciated, and send any donations in her honor to the Tibet Fund (www.tibetfund.org).

Lavone

Roberson, 41, died on Oct. 10, surrounded by friends and family following a 7-year battle with ovarian cancer.

From a young age, Lavone was a leader who recognized the impact of education and service. She received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology with a minor in Spanish from Hampton University, a Masters in Elementary Education from the University of Bridgeport and an ABD Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Phoenix. In 2018, Lavone became a member of Delta Sigma Theta Inc., a private, not-for-profit organization whose purpose is to provide assistance and support through established programs in local communities throughout the world.

She began her teaching career at Naramake Elementary School, where she was a third grade teacher and curriculum writer for fourteen years. She joined the Horizons Program at New Canaan Country School as Academic Director in 2019 where she developed and implemented the academic components of the summer and school year programs and managed staff. Outside of her professional life, she loved traveling, fashion, music, spending time with family and her beloved dog, Worthy Rue.

Following her cancer diagnosis in 2015, she established the Now I AM Foundation (“NIA”) with a mission to purposefully nurture, inspire and advocate for communities in need by organizing community service, fundraising and charity events. NIA’s goal is to provide ovarian cancer awareness and support to other cancer patients and caregivers and to inspire people to consider God’s purpose. Lavone is survived by her mother; Jacqueline Cobb-Roberson, father; Joseph Roberson, Jr., brothers; Gerald Roberson, Joseph Roberson, III and Tilford Cobb (Diana), sister; Jasmin Roberson (Ashley), nieces; Najera Roberson, Jaelyn Howard and Priseis Roberson, nephews; Tymel Roberson and Divine Roberson, paternal grandmother; Alma Roberson, aunts; Essie Mae Tindall (Raymond), Daphne Cobb, Alice Roberson and Valerie Roberson Edwards (Stefan), uncles; Robert Lee Cobb and Terrence

Roberson, her significant other; Sean Smith, godchildren; Jonaja Beamon, Jacob Tomlin, Cynai Tomlin, Chace Hawthorne, Braylynn Smith, Cannon Smith and Nova Terry, and a host of cousins, extended family and friends. Lavone was predeceased by her maternal grandparents; Garieen Cobb Smith and Robert Lee Cobb, Sr., paternal grandfather; Joseph Roberson, her aunt; Sandra Cobb-Ancrum and uncle; Terry E. Cobb.

Memorial gifts in Lavone’s memory may be made by visiting www.horizonskids.org/support.

Patricia Stoddard, 91, died peacefully in her sleep at home on Sept. 10. She taught Upper School English, history and anthropology and served as Academic Dean (1968–1978). Following Country School, she worked as the assistant to the chairman of Champion International Corporation (now International Paper) and in that capacity served as speechwriter and oversaw employee and shareholder communications. She retired in 1993.

A New Canaan resident since 1956, Pat served on numerous community boards and civic organizations. She was a founding member of New Canaan’s Staying Put organization, which provides essential services to seniors who wish to stay in their own homes, and served on the boards of the New Canaan Library, the Horizons Student Enrichment program and the League of Women Voters, and served on three separate New Canaan Charter Revision Commissions.

She is predeceased by her husband of 63 years, Hud Stoddard, who passed away in 2017.

Pat is survived by her three children, Daniel Stoddard ’71 (Milagros Lecuona), former Country School Board Chair Jane Stoddard Williams ’72 (Brian Williams), Alexander Stoddard ’75 (Lisa Wyatt Stoddard), and by her grandchildren Allison Williams ’03 (Alexander Dreymon), Douglas Williams ’06 (Emily Altieri), Caroline Stoddard and Country School Visual Arts Teacher Isadora Gacel Machado Lecuona. Pat also leaves behind a great-grandson, Arlo Dreymon-Williams.

The family gratefully welcomes memorial donations to The Speers-Stoddard Apprentice Teachers Fund at New Canaan Country School (PO Box 997 New Canaan, CT, 06840) or Staying Put in New Canaan (PO Box 484 New Canaan, CT, 06840).

The Great Outdoors: Room to Grow, Space to Thrive

By Mark Macrides, School Archivist

In 1936, when our fledgling Community School searched for land upon which it could relocate from downtown New Canaan to a true campus setting, trustees were delighted to find the Grace Church property at the corner of Frogtown and Ponus Ridge. The 150-acre parcel possessed a variety of resources that the young school needed: open fields fresh from farming and ready to accommodate football and field hockey games; hidden streams, ponds and swamps waiting to be explored, and acres of woods deforested in colonial times by farmers but now re-wooded with second-growth hardwood trees.

The school quickly developed a robust coed athletic program and christened three playing fields. Expeditions regularly set off for the woods to hike or collect tadpoles in the vernal ponds. Recess itself became an adventure as students could flex their minds developing new games and their muscles engaged in play. One can only imagine the excitement of being presented with such an expanse of raw nature with endless possibilities. Over time, as the needs of a growing school (athletic fields, recess space, parking areas) began to take shape, so too did the innovative ideas for how to implement them.

By 1963, Head of the Science Department, Robert Riedeman, began to explore the new concept of ecology and the need for, as he put it, “the desirability of imparting an understanding of

the principles of conservation to our students.” In true Country School fashion, he designed and led an effort to develop the woods, creating trails, boardwalks over vernal ponds and an outdoor classroom. The plan, carried out by seventh grade science students and funded by a special parent gift, included newly accepted conservation concepts and practices such as hardwood management, reinforcement planting and forest nursery. Over time, outdoor challenge activities were added. Recently, QR codes were posted as well to mark the trails and give details of the native flora and fauna. The outdoor classroom became a regular stopping point for Kindergarteners on Monday afternoon adventures, second graders’ Roxaboxen explorations, seventh grade natural science lessons, and ninth graders contemplating a special piece of poetry.

Today the concept of land conservation is embedded in the mission and ethos of the school. Recent construction projects have included very intentional green spaces and created new areas to experience the outdoors. Classroom doors continue to open directly to gardens, fields and woods loaded with potential for enjoyment and understanding of the value of the land and the need for preservation.

Eighty-six years later, how grateful we are that our predecessors gave us all the priceless gifts of the great outdoors!

Countr y School

At Country School, our students experience many FIRSTS in life. Whether it’s making a new friend, decoding a full sentence, a Frogtown Fair, trying out a new sport, maple sugaring, or giving a speech to the entire grade, these and other Country School FIRSTS are foundational experiences that become cherished lifelong memories.

Country School FIRSTS are made possible by our Annual Fund, and we thank many friends for prioritizing the Annual Fund first for their philanthropic support.

Please consider Country School FIRST among your family’s charitable giving priorities. Give online at countryschool.net/GIVING

635 Frogtown Road New Canaan, CT 06840

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Save the Date!

SATURDAY, MAY 13 Alumni Weekend & Frogtown Fair