New Canaan Country School Bulletin Winter 2022 by Good Design

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL

Winter 2022

Redefining Childhood Education for the Future

Multiple Perspectives

on Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

New Canaan Country School Bulletin Winter 2022 Head of School: Aaron Cooper Editors: Brooke Arthur Kent Findlay ’80 Contributors: Kojo Clarke Sarah Irwin Julia Cooper ’21 Mark Macrides Design: Good Design, LLC gooddesignusa.com Printer: J.S. McCarthy Printers jsmccarthy.com Photography: Brooke Arthur Kent Findlay ’80 Meaghan Mallin Chi Chi Ubiña Address changes: communications@countryschool.net On the cover: Cecilia Thompson and Quinn Susanin run roll dodge drills before their flag football scrimmage during Middle School sports. (Photo credit: Chi Chi Ubiña) Please note that all photography included in this issue follows proper health and safety guidance; on some occasions, photos from past school years are featured.

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.

We Need Your Feedback! Our goal is to provide you with the very best magazine possible. Please answer our 3-question readership survey:

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

1. Do you prefer print or digital? 2. How often would you like The Bulletin to publish? 3. Which are your favorite features?

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

Log on to www.countryschool.net/readersurvey to share your feedback.

CONTENTS 2 12 25 30 33 40 41 44 48 52 53 71 72 78 80

Redefining Childhood Education for the Future Class of 2021 Multiple Perspectives on Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Profiles in Giving Around Campus Frogtown Fair Country School Rocks Parents’ Association Horizons Alumni News Class Notes Milestones Faculty & Staff News In Memoriam A Look Back: Inven-stories

STAY CONNECTED WITH US ON SOCIAL MEDIA! @nccountryschool

Board of Trustees President: Sarah Irwin Vice President: F. Tucker Golden ’90 Treasurer: Michael DiBiasio ’90 Secretary: Tara Coniglio Members-at-Large: John M. Ryan Yolanda Seals-Coffield Sharon Gibbons Teles ’88 Christopher M. Bogart Arlety Bowman Aaron C. Cooper Sean M. Flanagan Arman C. Gokgol-Kline Gwendolyn R. Golden Catherine C. Jefferson Sarah Young Kilcullen ’98 Mariko G. LeBaron Monique S. Mims Douglas A. Ryder

Elizabeth Schmitt Heidi Locke Simon Jawanda P. Staber Rebecca C. Thornton ’92

Alumni Council President: Sarah Young Kilcullen ’98 Vice President: Taylor Gould ’06

Faculty Representatives: Brayden S. Henry Jeannie Staunton Bean ’83

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 Sanny Burnham Warner ’88

Parents’ Association Executive Council President: Gwen Golden President-Elect/Interim VP Community, Diversity & Inclusion: Jen Kline Treasurer: Carina Calia Secretary: Shannon Kieske VP Community Service: Hilary Flanagan VP Volunteers: Sonia O’Connor VP Communications: Ashley Williams

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 Tucker Golden ’90, Former Alumni Council President

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Redefining Childhood Education for the Future STRATEGIC PLAN

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

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NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

STRATEGIC PLAN

“Childhood is in itself an integral part of life to be lived fully and happily.” THESE WORDS ARE AS IMPORTANT TODAY as when Headmaster Henry Welles wrote them in New Canaan Country School’s first statement of purpose in 1938. We believe that it is during childhood that one builds the dispositions and habits of mind necessary to live lives of impact and purpose. Much like the very nature of childhood itself, it is in attending to the “now” in order to impact the future that spurred NCCS to undertake a Strategic Plan — one that sets an action plan for the next five years that will have impact for students at NCCS well beyond that time. Our plan, Redefining Childhood Education for the Future, is rooted in reaffirming and reinvigorating our original dedication to childhood. Just as children constantly evolve as they grow, so too must a school — even one with as rich a history and as strong a present as ours. We stand at a crossroads of future education, one accelerated and brought into clearer relief by the events of the spring of 2020. The coronavirus pandemic and the national reckoning on systemic racism have impacted much of how we teach and learn, have given us practice in distance and blended learning, forced us to reevaluate the use of time

collectively position NCCS as a leader of childhood education

and talents, and made us reflect on the aspects of education

both now and in the future. Our philosophy has always begun

that are most relevant. In many ways, it has provided an

with children and their experiences, and our strategic plan

accelerant to the work we know lies ahead. We find ourselves

does exactly that. Nothing can be more profound than the way

with an incredible opportunity, given our century-plus of

we educate our children.

providing best-in-class childhood education, to reimagine the next century. Thus, we feel the urgency — both in the moment

Audentes Fortuna Juvat!

of today and in our everlasting commitment to childhood — to undertake this plan and our vision for New Canaan

With best regards,

Country School as leaders in childhood education. Positioning NCCS for leadership involves several facets: codifying our beliefs about childhood development and our desired outcomes for NCCS students; further emphasizing character education, wellness and diversity, equity and inclusion as critical foundational components of one’s life; strengthening partnerships in our larger community; and

Aaron Cooper, Head of School

focusing on the ways our finances support our excellence. What will this look like? Over the course of the next several years, we will involve the community in forming our shared vision, and will institute the programs and approaches that

To read more of Aaron’s reflections, visit www.countryschool.net/lettersfromaaron

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Strategic Plan Background & Context During the 2019–2020 academic year, New Canaan Country School launched a comprehensive strategic planning process.

committee identifying a small set of priorities for future focus.

The strategic plan was developed to provide a long-range view

As these priorities were developed, the steering committee

of future school priorities created through a highly inclusive

expanded on them to outline specific initiatives, action plans and

and participatory process. A steering committee focused on

a series of sequenced priorities. The resulting white paper draft

research, environmental scans, a SWOT (strengths, weaknesses,

outlines these initiatives and associated action plans.

opportunities and threats) analysis, committee exercises, and trends in the independent school and the education sector. In order to build a base of sound information and to guide

Each of these initiatives and action plans benefit from having additional implementation details, such as estimated costs and metrics of success, to be further developed in the planning

the planning process, the school enlisted the assistance of

process, and will be utilized as the school moves forward with

a research and planning firm, Ian Symmonds & Associates.

the execution of the strategic plan.

The steering committee worked collaboratively with the firm through a series of exercises designed to establish priorities based upon the findings of the research.

This process culminated in the spring of 2020, with the steering

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

STRATEGIC PLAN

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.

COMMUNITY

COURAGE

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

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

OUR VALUES

CURIOSITY

KINDNESS

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

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

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NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

STRATEGIC PLAN

Strategic Priority #1

Our Program

Provide best-in-class childhood education focused on the “best of both worlds”: an exceptional foundation in academics, athletics and the arts combined with an unparalleled social-emotional framework resulting in students who love learning, know how to lead, and are nurtured with a high level of well-being.

Program of Study Ensure a broad-based/well-rounded, exceptional educational foundation that prepares students for any challenge.

Capstone Experience Create a unique ninth grade experience in which students explore and engage distinct and authentic learning challenges and opportunities.

Time and Schedule Redefine the use of time, creating a more fluid, flexible and nimble schedule.

Teacher Development Cultivate best-in-class teachers in order to attract, grow and retain the strongest, most collaborative faculty possible.

Character Development Emerge as a national leader in the area of character development.

Wellness Expand and enhance our wellness efforts to meet the needs of a rapidly changing world.

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Strategic Priority #2

Our Community

Nurture and cultivate the most vibrant, connected, open, diverse and welcoming community possible to best support student growth and belonging.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusivity Enhance and expand the diversity of our community, fundamental to our mission, and progress toward becoming a truly inclusive institution.

Community Cultivation Rethink how we cultivate our school community, connections and communication with families, and their involvement in the education process.

Partnerships Develop distinct networked learning communities and education partnerships that expand our base of learners and help our students engage both locally and globally.

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

STRATEGIC PLAN

Strategic Priority #3

Our Future

Build and support the models and approaches that ensure a sustainable future.

Enrollment Management Optimize our configuration and distribution of students.

Financial Model Revisit our pricing, financial model and resource structure to build market resilience and to strengthen our accessibility to a larger, more diverse population.

Philanthropy Enhance the culture of philanthropy, both annually and in support of special projects.

Revenue Expansion Create new opportunities for alternative sources of revenue.

Environmental Sustainability Pursue efforts to impact environmental sustainability in our practices and our curriculum.

THANK YOU TO OUR STRATEGIC PLAN STEERING COMMITTEE Aaron Cooper, Head of School, co-chair Sarah Irwin, Board of Trustees President, co-chair

Brooke Arthur, Director of Strategy and Communications Jeannie Stanton Bean ’83, Beginners 4/5 Teacher, trustee Yolanda Coffield, parent, trustee Tucker Golden ’90, parent, trustee Kathy Kravec, Director of Plus Program Heidi Locke Simon, parent, trustee Hannah Liu, (former) Upper School World Language Teacher, Advisor Meaghan Mallin, Head of Lower School Beth O’Brien, Head of Early Childhood Reshan Richards, Director of Studies Lauren Romeo, Director of Upper School Counseling; Upper School Learning Resources Teacher John Ryan, parent, trustee Pam Safford, Director of Enrollment Management and Financial Aid

Class of 2021 12

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

The following are remarks made by Head of School Aaron Cooper to the Class of 2021 on June 16.

“You have the ability to

“I will start by sharing a Buddhist parable about a farmer and a horse. Once there was a farmer who had a horse. The horse helped the farmer farm the land for a long time. One day, the horse ran away. The farmer’s neighbor

t c a p Im

came by and, upon hearing about the horse, said, ‘Oh, that is so terrible.’ The farmer responded, ‘Perhaps.’ The next day, the horse returned from its travels and brought with it several wild horses it had befriended. Upon hearing this, the neighbor said, ‘That is so wonderful,’ and the farmer responded, ‘Perhaps.’ The next day, the farmer’s child was breaking the horses so they could work on the farm, and one of the horses threw the child and the child broke their leg. The neighbor came over and said, ‘Oh that is terrible.’ ‘Perhaps.’ The next day, the country went to war and all able-

the outcome”

bodied children were conscripted to fight in the army. The farmer’s child was spared due to the broken leg. The neighbor said, ‘How lucky that is.’ And the farmer again responded, ‘Perhaps.’ Whether experiencing something that initially seemed good or bad, equally, the farmer simply replied, ‘Perhaps.’ The Buddhist principle underlying this story is one of non-judgment. Things that seem negative may not end up that way, and conversely, experiences that seem positive may not be. The mindset of non-judgment is to accept each equally and then to try to make the most out of the situation. Let’s look at this year through that lens.

1 2

1. Annie Nichols presented the Class Reflection. 2. Henry Warner, Will Mackey and Sam Jones

If we had told someone that your last year here would be one where there would be no OAT trip, where you would wear masks every day, have almost no sports games, no expanded studies trips, no assemblies or interaction with younger students, where you would eat lunch in a tent every day no matter whether it is 90-degree humidity or 10-degree blustery, that you would not see your siblings around campus, and you would not even walk through the front door of the building, any person would probably say ‘That stinks.’ On its face, it is too bad. I am sad for you that you did not get to do those things. I am sure, on some level, you are also disappointed. And yet, given the necessity of the time, it is your response that really counts. 3

Let’s think back to the parable of the farmer and the horse. After the horse had run away and returned with the wild horses, what did the farmer do? Sit back and smile? No, the farmer set out to train the horses. Because that is the other part of non-judgment — of the mindset of ‘perhaps’: You have the ability to impact the outcome. It is, in many ways, what you make out of it. And you have made a lot out of it. You have achieved in your classes. You have won awards. You have won the few sports games you have had. You have shown the younger students the way through seriousness of purpose, through your enthusiasm and through your spirit. Effectively, when you could have said, ‘That’s terrible,’ you have actually said, ‘Perhaps.’ Even more than how you have overcome the obstacles you have faced, you have also

7 9

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

3. Maria Flores, Alice Nash, Oliver Jellinek, Rheda Young and Harper Teles 4. Nelson, Hunter and Beth Griggs 5. Maddy, Caleb, Jodi and Major Hasbrouck 6. Walker and Ella Harvey 7. Maija and Wilder Judelson 8. Sue, Hunter, Colin, Will, Logan and Cam Mackey 9. Denise, Alina and Doug Harned 10. Aaron, Julia, Kara and Charlotte Cooper 11. Jamie Grubb 12. Cece and Pippa Johnson 13. Miles and Frances Chandor 14. Beth, Fiona and Michael Gosk 15. Ninth graders await the processional.

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“You have built resilience. You have persevered. You have experienced a lot of things that would deflate others, and you have shown the ability to rise above that.”

20 22

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

16. Hunter Griggs 17. Ashley and Miller Burr 18. Javier, Maria, Samantha and Johana Flores 19. Wave Walters, Maddy Hasbrouck and Anna Majewski 20. Annie and Will Boggess 21. Jake, Lorny and Polly Goodyear 22. Isobel Goldberg, Elsa Franks, Ella Sanders, Elizabeth Hackett and Mackenzie Coffield, who departed after eighth grade, returned to watch the event. 23. Ben Bilden, John Bajaj, Ned Smith, Henry Warner and Will Mackey 24. Elizabeth and Kat Thompson 25. Trip Hurley 26. Conrado and Octavio Calderini 27. Scott, Bradley, Wendy and Ryan ’19 Werneburg 28. Harper Teles 29. Henry, Sanny Burnham Warner ’88 and Matt Warner 30. Tina, Sam, Banc ’85 and Lucy ’18 Jones

built muscle. You have built resilience. You have persevered. You have experienced a lot of things that would deflate others, and you have shown the ability to rise above that. Undoubtedly, you have learned a lot in your time here. You know who you are and what interests you and what you care about. You know how to comfort a friend in pain and to include rather than exclude. You know how to be a good teammate and to speak up to share your opinions. You know how to construct an argument and deliver a speech and solve for the roots of a function. And you

know how to tap trees for maple syrup and throw pottery and build furniture and paint bricks — well, most of you, at least. As you head off to new schools and new adventures, you are ready for whatever challenges await. As you do that, though, maybe it is simply the spirit of ‘perhaps’ that is the essence of what you are taking with you. You will get to a school where you do not know most — if any — of the people. Sounds hard, right? Perhaps. You will find a class really hard and may doubt whether you belong. Sounds bad, right? Perhaps. You are going to fail a test and you are going to ace a test. You will make a friend and you will lose a friend. You will win a game and you will lose a game. You will have

great moments and you will have bad moments. And of course, you will feel elation and relief and disappointment and anger, and all the emotions that are appropriate for those experiences. If, at the same time, you can also say ‘perhaps,’ if you can realize that that single success or failure, even if it is the latest in a string of other successes or failures, does not define the future, and if you are then able to reflect on what contributed to that success or failure, and if you then focus on either doing better next time or building on that success, you will be using the lessons you learned and muscles you 26

Three of our 2021 graduates are children of alumni: Sharon Gibbons Teles ’88, Sanny Burnham Warner ’88 and Banc Jones ’85

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THAT’S A WRAP!

The Byrne family concludes 18 years at Country School. Also noteworthy are the Bright and Walters families each with 15 years, the Johnson family with 14 years, the Gizzie, Smith and Warner families with 13 years each, and the Bajaj, Cherry, Jones, Petricone and Ruvinsky families each with 12 years.

32 31. Lloyd, Alex ’18, Ben, Lynne, William ’16 and Nicholas ’14 Byrnes 32. Marcy, Virginia ’16, Beth, Ned, Madeleine ’14 and Hunter Smith 33. Sheldon and Walker Bright 34. Sophie ’18 and John Bajaj 35. Greg and Wave Walters and Torrance York 36. Leigh Kennedy, Charlie, Phil and Maggie ’19 Ruvinsky 37. Annie Nichols and Julia Cooper, Jane Walsh and Fiona Gosk 38. Phoebe ’18 and Henry Naylor 39. Mary, Anna and Tom Majewski 40. Ben, Samara, Zach, James, Caroline and Peter Bilden. Ben delivered the Class Salutation.

More photos available www.nccs.smugmug.com 36

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

developed this year. And that is the opposite of ‘terrible’ or ‘too bad.’ That is not disappointing. That is great. Decades from now, history will remember the Class of 2021 at schools everywhere. You led us through the pandemic; you had the most unique final year at your school possible. You navigated quarantines, masks, distance learning, plexiglass, distancing and all the rest. People will admire you for all you did to perse-

vere and flourish despite the adversity. No one will remember the bad grades, the missed trips, the arguments or the low times. I do not think you will, either. On the whole, by doing your best, by making the most, you made an impact — and that you will remember. So, in addition to all that you learned in your classes and activities, I hope you take the resilience and flexibility and patience and focus that you showed and developed this year and make the most of it. In the words of our mission, we expect that you will go on to lead lives of impact and purpose. So go make a difference in something that drives you. It will not be easy, and you will have moments of doubt but your teachers and your families and I know you can do it.”

“We are so proud of you! Congratulations on graduating from NCCS and thank you for all you have given our community through your spirit, your courage and your ability to weather the storm.”

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(Front row left to right): Ella Harvey, Madelynn Hasbrouck, Wave Walters, Anna Majewski, Alina Harned, Maria Flores, Cece Johnson, Harper Teles; (second row left to right): Wilder Judelson, Kathryn Thompson, Jane Walsh, Julia Cooper, Miller Burr, Frances Chandor, Fiona Gosk, Annie Nichols, Hunter Griggs; (third row left to right): Oliver Jellinek, Henry Naylor, Henry Warner, Jamie Grubb, John Bajaj, Trip Hurley, Bradley Werneburg, Ben Byrne, Campbell Essex; (fourth row left to right): Ned Smith, Will Mackey, Ben Bilden, Will Boggess, Sam Jones, Conrado Calderini, Charlie Ruvinsky, Lorny Goodyear and Walker Bright.

Congratulations! Class of 2021 Secondary School Destinations

John Bajaj................................................. The Loomis Chaffee School

Trip Hurley............................................................ Westminster School

Ben Bilden..........................................Greenwich Country Day School

Oliver Jellinek �� Millbrook School

Will Boggess ��St. George’s School

Cece Johnson.......................................... The Loomis Chaffee School

Walker Bright �� Berkshire School

Sam Jones ��Pomfret School

Miller Burr �� Berkshire School

Wilder Judelson........................................ Trinity Preparatory School

Ben Byrne �� Berkshire School

Will Mackey........................................Greenwich Country Day School

Conrado Calderini �� Berkshire School

Anna Majewski ��Pomfret School

Frances Chandor �� Millbrook School

Henry Naylor �� Westminster School

Julia Cooper....................................................... The Hotchkiss School

Annie Nichols.......................................... The Loomis Chaffee School

Campbell Essex ��King School

Charlie Ruvinsky �� Berkshire School

Maria Flores....................................................Rye Country Day School

Ned Smith.....................................................New Canaan High School

Lorny Goodyear �� Westminster School

Harper Teles ��The Taft School

Fiona Gosk............................................................ Miss Porter’s School

Kathryn Thompson �� Brooks School

Hunter Griggs �� Kent School

Jane Walsh ��The Taft School

Jamie Grubb �� St. Mark’s School

Wave Walters �� Hopkins School

Alina Harned �� Kent School

Henry Warner �� Westminster School

Ella Harvey..............................................................St. George’s School

Bradley Werneburg ��New Canaan High School

Madelynn Hasbrouck.......................... Brien McMahon High SchoolMarine Science Academy

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

See page 62 for Class of 2018 college destinations.

,I m Ready... Congratulations, Class of 2021!

For more than 100 years, Country School has provided an intentional journey that balances strong academic preparation with social-emotional development for children age 3 through Grade 9. The result is alumni who are confident leaders and bold thinkers who are prepared to continue to their next school and beyond.

“NCCS has taught me the importance of hard work and friendships.”

“The most important lesson I learned is to step outside my comfort zone.”

—Maria Flores of Stamford attends Rye Country Day School

—Henry Warner of New Canaan attends Westminster School

—Jane Walsh of Wilton attends The Taft School

“An important lesson I have learned at NCCS is to treat people how you want to be treated.”

“What I value most about my NCCS experience is the sense of community.”

—Maddy Hasbrouck of Norwalk attends Brien McMahon High SchoolMarine Science Academy

—Will Mackey of New Canaan attends Greenwich Country Day School

“NCCS has taught me resilience, time management and organization, which are important lessons that I will take with me throughout my life.” —Jamie Grubb of Bedford, NY, attends St. Mark’s School

Did you see us on social media? I’m Ready is an advertising campaign that runs each spring in local print and digital outlets. For more, please visit:

“Country School has instilled in me the values and skills to be a curious, independent and engaged student.”

www.countryschool.net/2021 21 discover more countryschool.net

Celebrating Our Eighth Graders

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

At our Celebration of Eighth Graders on June 15, Head of Upper School Karl Palmgren recognized the 62 members of the Class of 2022 as “independent, self-motivated, confident, good communicators, hard workers, resilient, empathetic, joyful and collaborative.” Mr. Palmgren noted the class’s ability to coalesce when under pressure, forming a stronger whole. He went on to mention the concept of an arch in its relation to this year: “The way to strengthen an arch is to put weight on it, because it binds the stones together, and only with tension does it hold weight. This year has bound this group together in so many ways, and there is a high tensile strength to that cohesion. So regardless of where you

Members of the Eighth Grade Class of 2022: Kieran Mohindra-

Peyton Ambrose

Skyler Gendason

go for ninth grade, look around. This is your home. These

Leena Aronson

Reed Ghriskey

are your people. And we couldn’t be prouder of you.

Penelope

Lila Gizzie

John Nally

Niall Glynn

Ifeanyichukwu

We only ask that you continue to live by and commit your-

Arredondo

Green

self to those shared aspirations and the core values you

Katelyn Barr

Oliver Golden

Ndokwu

have learned here at Country School, those of courage,

Emily Behr

Elizabeth Hall

Riley Newport

curiosity, community and kindness.”

Anne Boggess

Katherine Hanson

Ambika Nott

Eighth grader Ifeanyi Ndokwu of Stamford delivered

Brendan Buda

Ann Harrigan

Brodie O’Connor

the Class Reflection: “No matter how prepared you may

Emma Cannon

Dominic Hartmann

Ana Petricone

be, life will always find something new to throw at you,

Sabina Cherry

Ellie Israelov

Morgan Powell

and after four years I’ve seen problems stretching from

Rigsbee Conze

Oliver Johnson

Chandeny Rahman

bad grades to frustrating losses and especially embar-

Vy Cullen

Sebastian Kelsey

Matthew Rivera

rassing moments. I’ve evolved and become a better

Caroline DiBiasio

Lyla Koch

Ellie Rosolen

version of myself every time.”

Eleanor duPont

Brandon Krongard

Bray Rudd

Courtney Edwards

Ella Kurtz

Dario Sanon

Regan Famigletti

Penelope Legnani

Christopher Santa

John Fichthorn

Margaret Lewis

Isabella Sarracino

Aoife Flanagan

Colin Mackey

Matthew Schell

Joshua Fleuriot

Daniel Marin

Margaret Seiden

Matthew Fry

Connor McNamara

Alexandra

Eloise Galante

Mark McNamara

Andrew Gallagher

Justin Mims

Opposite: Ifeanyi Ndokwu delivered the Class Reflection at the school’s Eighth Grade Celebration June 15. Right: Annie Harrigan, Vy Cullen and Ambika Nott

Sellschop Alex Thiersant

Class of 2022 Secondary School Destinations

Bes t of Luck!

While 26 students returned for ninth grade, others will attend the following secondary schools: Peyton Ambrose ��St. Luke’s School

Dominic Hartmann................................Munich International School

Leena Aronson..................................Greenwich Country Day School

Ellie Israelov...............................................Phillips Academy Andover

Katie Barr.............................................................. Greenwich Academy

Oliver Johnson �� The Hotchkiss School

Emily Behr..........................................Greenwich Country Day School

Sebastian Kelsey �� Darien High School

Emma Cannon.............................................. Convent of Sacred Heart

Brandon Krongard ��IMG Academy, FL

Sabina Cherry �� Hopkins School

Ella Kurtz............................................................... Greenwich Academy

Rigs Conze �� Kent School

Penelope Legnani..................................Brien McMahon High School

Vy Cullen..........................................................Greens Farms Academy

Connor McNamara �� Darien High School

Courtney Edwards ��The Taft School

Mark McNamara �� Darien High School

Regan Famigletti.........................................New Canaan High School

Justin Mims ��St. Luke’s School

Aoife Flanagan �� Hopkins School

Kieran Mohindra-Green ��St. Stephen’s Episcopal School

Josh Fleuriot..........................................Brien McMahon High School

Ifeanyi Ndokwu ��Choate Rosemary Hall

Eloise Galante.............................................The Lawrenceville School

Ambika Nott.................................................. Rye Country Day School

Skyler Gendason...............................Greenwich Country Day School

Ana Petricone................................................ Rye Country Day School

Lila Gizzie...........................................................Choate Rosemary Hall

Bray Rudd �� Suffield Academy

Niall Glynn........................................................Greens Farms Academy

Isabella Sarracino ��New Canaan High School

Elizabeth Hall.....................................Northfield Mt. Hermon School

Margot Seiden ��St. Luke’s School

Parker Hanson �� St. Paul’s School

Above: Alex Thiersant, Josh Fleuriot, Justin Mims, Ifeanyi Ndokwu and Dario Sanon Right: Lyla Koch, Caroline DiBiasio, Skyler Gendason, Eleanor duPont and Sabina Cherry

More photos available www.nccs.smugmug.com NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

Multiple Perspectives ON DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION

During the 2020–2021 school year, NCCS launched the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Newsletter to offer a space to amplify voices from throughout the community including students, teachers, parents, alumni and others. The following pages include excerpts from this newsletter. Visit www.countryschool.net/diversity to read the full editions of our first three DEI newsletters. If you would like to contribute a firsthand perspective article, please send an email to communications@countryschool.net.

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From the Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion:

CURIOSITY

Underpins Our Work By Kojo Clarke

Our children are filled with limitless potential for learning. We help them practice deep reflection and prepare for a life that always pursues insightful questions, builds meaningful relationships and takes on informed explorations of the world — whether it is through the natural world, or whether they seek to understand the cultural complexities of the world’s people. This is how I believe we respect childhood — by honoring

“When toddlers ask the infamous ‘why’ almost as soon as they can speak, they reveal their early desire to make meaning of the world.”

its curiosities. When toddlers ask the infamous “why” almost as soon as they can speak, they reveal their early desire to make meaning of the world. We support students’ early friendships by fostering knowledge of oneself and of each other, thus helping students not only notice differences, but also learn how to be better friends with one another. We ask our families to model adult curiosity — as contributors below have done — which helps children recognize that curiosity and uncertainty are necessary for growth. I love this quote from Maya Angelou that speaks to nuturing curiosity about oneself: “No man can know where he is going unless he knows exactly where he has been and exactly how he arrived at his present place.”

Our Core Values guide our Diversity, Equity & Inclusion work. Our Core Values — Community, Courage, Curiosity and Kindness — reflect the commitment we make to our students and families each day, and they serve as a foundation and guide for our entire school community — today, tomorrow and into the future.

To learn more about our Mission Statement and Core Values, please visit www.countryschool.net/mission

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

From the President of the Board:

Belonging Is a Continuous Act of

COMMUNITY By Sarah Irwin

When I’m asked what makes Country

of the conference brought together a

School special, I often point first to our

cross-section of the NCCS community

sense of voice Country School fosters,

deeply held value of community.

(students, faculty, staff, parents, recent

our pod’s youngest members, Upper

In a fitting testament to the strong

alumni and trustees) to discuss how

School students Penelope Arredondo

belief that children learn and grow best

our school and its policies can be more

and Daniel Marin, were a highlight of the

when they are rooted in an unshake-

inclusive. It also offered the opportunity

conference. Their wise insights inspired all

able sense of belonging. Country School

to connect with those who wear similar

and exemplified NCCS’s positive impact

students are fully seen and known,

constituent hats in peer schools.

in the world. As the group suggested

At the heart of the NCCS mission is a

valued for all they are and can become,

Like Dr. Bettina Love’s rousing

positive action steps, shared commitment

and surrounded by adults who inspire

keynote, which urged educators to

to the future of all our school’s students

them to reach their highest potential.

center on the idea that “justice is about

propelled the discussion.

Of course, those adults also thrive

joy,” the conversations of the day were

The conference was a powerful

when they can bring their whole selves

invigorating and ultimately hopeful.

reminder that, as NCCS students experi-

to work in a learning environment that

Over the past year, as many independent

ence on campus each day, our strength

values them. At its best, a flourishing

schools have experienced painful reckon-

resides in our differences even more than

school community includes everyone —

ings with racism and other forms of bias

it does in our commonalities. When any

students, faculty, staff, families — in a

within their communities, all schools

cross-section of our community comes

culture of belonging that respects and

have learned valuable lessons and feel a

together, every individual brings uniquely

honors our individual differences.

renewed commitment to delivering on

valuable skills and viewpoints to bear,

the promise of the mission for all.

and we all benefit.

Like everything that happens in schools, this requires significant energy

Among fellow Connecticut trustees,

After all, a true culture of belonging

and intentional effort. Truly strong and

I heard consensus that working to build

is not a fixed endpoint, but a continuous

inclusive communities grow through

more diverse, equitable and inclusive

act of community. Like many of the

collaboration, coupled with a healthy

communities will be essential to the

things we value most at Country School,

dose of self-awareness and a continuous

success of future generations of students

it is something we can only create — and

commitment to learn and do better.

and to the long-term strength and financial

keep creating — together.

With this mindset, in April, I joined

sustainability of our schools. I also heard

a “pod” of 15 NCCS delegates (along

candid acknowledgment that this mission-

with pods from many local independent

aligned work is not simple; it requires

schools) for Connecticut’s first Pollyanna

schools to make room for reflection, honor

Conference, titled “Advancing Our

diversity of thought, and find common

Climate of Belonging.” The structure

ground if it is to be meaningful and lasting.

Board President Sarah Irwin was part of a “pod” of 15 NCCS delegates (along with pods from many local independent schools) who attended Connecticut’s first Pollyanna Conference in April.

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Student Perspective:

Questioning with KINDNESS By Julia Cooper ’21

I have a vivid memory of when I learned

When I was selected as a ninth grader

about the Student Diversity Leadership

to attend the national SDLC Conference

I hadn’t thought of before. They under-

Conference for the first time. I was in

in December 2020, I decided that this

stood that binary options don’t reflect

seventh grade, and six ninth graders gave

would be the year everyone would

everyone’s experiences or identities, that

a presentation on the eight identifiers

engage in these discussions and receive

negative stereotypes and representation

— religion, age, ethnicity, socioeconomic-

the education necessary to move forward

can have damaging effects on a group of

status, race, sexual orientation, ability

in the world. Following the conference,

people, and they began to see that differ-

and gender. As much information as they

the SDLC committee worked hard

ences in ability don’t mean disability,

shared in that presentation,

educating fellow students and creating

but that society makes things harder for

an environment for discussion. Through a

some people.

I STILL HAD SO MANY QUESTIONS: What’s the difference between race and ethnicity?

three-day course, students explored the

Why these eight identifiers? What even is identity?

tion that I left students with was,

tance of spectrums, harmful stereotypes

“Why does this matter?” Sometimes a

and representation.

student would answer and share their take on the lesson while other times

I learned almost all students have the

they reflected internally. However they

same questions I had in seventh grade.

answered, I hope through this education

Spending an hour twice a week with

students will proceed into the world

seventh graders opened my eyes to their

with more compassion, respect and

curiosity in regards to identity. Each

grace, and continue to explore identity

lesson, I flipped through the slideshow,

and why it is important.

I signed up for and attended the

gave examples, helped make connec-

Connecticut SDLC in the spring of seventh

tions, facilitated discussions and led

grade learn answers to some of these

activities. The content of each lesson

questions. That was, to date, one of the

was the same, but the differences in

most transformative discussions I’ve ever

each group’s conversation surprised me.

participated in. However, only around six

Although I was in a teaching position

students from my grade attended and had

for these classes, as a 14-year-old I still

the opportunity to gain the new perspec-

had so much to learn about identity.

tive I did. What about the other students?

The seventh and eighth graders brought

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

At the end of each lesson, the ques-

eight identifiers, privilege, the impor-

In teaching my Upper School peers,

Why is ability a big deal?

fresh perspectives and made connections

Julia Cooper ’21 attends The Hotchkiss School. Julia was one of several ninth-grade NCCS representatives who participated in the annual NAIS Student Diversity Leadership Conference (SDLC), a four-day virtual conference with more than 2,100 students from across the country, in December 2020.

From Race Relations Expert Daryl Davis:

Overcoming Racism Requires COURAGEOUS Conversations Country School welcomed celebrated American

“The most important thing I learned is that when

R&B musician and the author of the acclaimed

you are actively learning about someone else you

book Klan-Destine Relationships, Daryl Davis, to

are passively teaching them about yourself,” said Mr.

speak with faculty, staff and students as part of

Davis. “So, if you have an adversary with an opposing

its commemoration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day

point of view, give that person a platform. Allow

in 2021. Mr. Davis, who is the subject of a 2016

them to air that point of view, regardless of how

documentary, Accidental Courtesy, and has a TED

extreme it may be. Give them a platform. You chal-

Talk with over 10 million views, is known for his

lenge them. But you don’t challenge them rudely

experiences engaging with members of the Ku Klux

or violently. You do it politely and intelligently. And

Klan. His presentation focused on the importance

when you do things that way, chances are they will

of listening and engaging in dialogue with those

reciprocate and give you a platform.”

with whom one vehemently disagrees. “We have to be able to sit down and listen and talk to one another, even with someone whom you consider to be an enemy,” he said. His journey to this understanding has been long. He shared that when he was 10 years old, after being the target of racism at a Cub Scout parade, he set out to seek the roots of racism and answer a question that has become central to his work: “Why would someone who has never met me, hate me because of the color of my skin?” Over the years, Mr. Davis’s persistent efforts to

“The most important thing I learned is that when you are actively learning about someone else you are passively teaching them about yourself.”

dispel ignorance and fear have led him to develop meaningful relationships with members of the KKK, which frequently resulted in them revoking their Klan membership. Mr. Davis encouraged NCCS students to strive to make connections with those they may initially consider different from themselves.

To take the 21-day Racial Equity Habit Challenge, please visit www.eddiemoorejr.com

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“Our vision is to identify and support outstanding students who do not have the economic means to attend NCCS and afford them the opportunity to pursue the American Dream.”

Clockwise from left; Taina and Chien Chao with Tyler, Reese and Izzy Jefferson

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

PROFILES IN GIVING

Jefferson Family Donates $2.5 Million to Support Diversity and Financial Accessibility Country School parents Cathy and Brett Jefferson P ’24,’27,’29 have made one of the largest gifts in Country School history, recently pledging $2.5 million to support diversity and financial accessibility for students. The gift will create the Chien and Taina Chao Scholarship Fund, named in honor of Mrs. Jefferson’s parents who came to the U.S. to pursue their advanced education, both earning PhDs in chemistry and building successful careers in science. The gift is being made through the Catherine Jefferson Foundation, which Brett and Cathy founded and, in part, by Hildene Capital Management. The Jeffersons’ vision is to identify and support outstanding minority students who do not have the economic means to attend Country School and afford them the opportunity to pursue the American Dream. “We hope that there will be many outstanding Chao Scholars that will benefit from our gift and we are also hopeful that NCCS will benefit from the diversity this program will offer,” wrote Cathy and Brett in a letter to Head of School Aaron Cooper. (Read the full letter at right.) Cathy and Brett are the parents of three children at the school, and they joined the Country School community in 2017. Brett, the founder and president of Hildene Capital Management, and Cathy have been steadfast supporters of New Canaan Country School and have given very generously of their time as well. Both serve as Annual Fund Ambassadors, and Cathy has served in numerous volunteer roles with the NCCS Parents’ Association and recently joined the school’s Board of Trustees. “We are humbled by Cathy and Brett’s generosity and commitment to helping us provide a New Canaan Country School education to exceptional students regardless of their family’s financial

Dear Aaron, Firstly, I would like to let you know how happy Cathy and I are that all of our children are able to atte nd NCCS. Your faculty and staf f are outstanding and know how to maximize the potential for each student. Cathy and I have been blessed in many ways but a recent experience allowed me to unde rstand the value of an “opportunity.” My firm, Hildene Capital Management, has evolved over the years from an organization that was comprised of a handful of ex-lacrosse players to one that has grown in size and diversity. In a recent exercise to “get to know” members of my firm, I was awestruck to learn of the sacr ifices and determination of some of my colleagues. My colleague s from India and other parts of Asia that came to America told their stories of perseverance. These stories detailed not only how they got their education, but more importantly, how they strive to help out their families that they left behind. One went as far to say that “America is the land of opportunity” and how fortunate he is to have the opportunity to live here. I am very proud of the dive rsity in present-day Hildene. Cathy’s parents, Chien and Taina Cha o, came to America to pursue careers in science, with both earning PhDs in chemistry. They raised two wonderful daughter s and found a better life. Hildene has resided in Stamford since 2013 and I feel it is time that Cathy and I try and help some other students pursue the American Dream. Cathy and I, through our foun dation and Hildene Capital, would like to collectively pledge $2,50 0,000 to create the Chien and Taina Chao Scholarship Fund. Our vision is to identify and support outstanding students who do not have the economic means to attend NCCS and afford them the opportunity to pursue the American Dream. I hope that there will be many outstanding Chao Scholars that will benefit from our gift and I am also hopeful that NCCS will benefit from the diversity this program will offer. Best regards, Cathy and Brett Jefferson

resources,” said Mr. Cooper. “With this transformational gift, we can further extend the impact of the Country School mission to 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.

To learn more about Endowed Funds at NCCS, please visit www.countryschool.net/giving. discover more countryschool.net

A BOLDLY FORWARD Campaign Update

Five years ago, we launched the Boldly Forward Capital Campaign to raise critically important funds for the construction of new community spaces, to improve our facilities and to strengthen our endowment. Early support allowed the school to open the Susan Haigh Carver ’51 Dining Hall & Commons, and has been a significant force behind the

$22

million

construction and completion of our Athletics & Wellness Center. Hundreds of Country School parents, alumni, parents of alumni and grandparents have contributed nearly $22 million toward these projects and our endowment. Now in our final year of the Campaign —and more than 80% of the way toward our $25 million goal — we still need your help!

Faculty Diversity Fund Bob Mancini and his daughter, Meaghan Mancini ’03, P ’30, an educator and Country School parent — and a long-standing advocate for DEI work in schools — partnered with the school to create the Faculty Diversity Fund to provide funding for the recruitment, hiring, retention and development of faculty of color at New Canaan Country School. Additional alumni contributors to the fund include Matthew Mancini ’01, Julia Mancini Kuebler ’07 and members of the Class of 1956, led by classmate Don Burnes ’56. In addition to these efforts, others in the community have made targeted donations in support of diversity, equity and inclusion at NCCS. We are grateful to all those who have contributed to these initiatives to date.

Campus Landscape Project Particularly popular with alumni and parents of alumni who have donated in honor of teachers, their class or a special memory, the landscape project launched in 2021 and has quickly received more than $150,000. Many trees have in fact already been planted along the Lower School Drive and surrounding the Athletics & Wellness Center. If you haven’t yet, there is still time to leave your permanent mark on the Country School campus. Please consider funding a tree or other campus landscaping initiative.

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

To discuss opportunities to support Country School, please contact Ryan Smith, Senior Director of Advancement, at rsmith@countryschool.net, or (203) 801-5633; Holly Donaldson Casella ’04, Director of Major Gifts and Alumni Affairs, at hcasella@ countryschool.net, or (203) 801-5687.

To learn more about the Boldly Forward Campaign, the Faculty Diversity Fund and the Campus Landscape Project, please visit www.countryschool.net/ boldlyforward

AROUND CAMPUS Congressman Himes Discusses Political Situation in Myanmar with Eighth Graders U.S. REP. JIM HIMES joined eighth grade World Cultures students May 4, during a Zoom call in which the students were able to speak with a family living in Myanmar (formerly Burma). Rep. Himes provided an overview of how the U.S. government is responding to the unfolding political situation in the Southeast Asian country, and the family (whose identities must remain confidential for their safety) detailed the ways in which daily life has changed and what it feels like and just being on the streets could lead

who had met the family in her prior

“The military is now in charge and has

to military harassment, confiscation

travels to the region. Knowing that the

declared a yearlong state of emergency.

of personal property or even arrest.

eighth grade World Cultures curriculum

It seized control on Feb. 1, following a

Schools have been closed for a year, and

explores the culture, history and current

general election,” said the mother. The

everyone remains indoors indefinitely.

events of Asia, she facilitated the oppor-

to live in the middle of a military coup.

children went on to add that literally

As a means of protest, the family

tunity for the students.

overnight, their entire life changed. Wi-Fi

noted that people bang on pots and

was turned off countrywide. No one

pans citywide at a certain hour every day,

Above: Rep. Jim Himes joined eighth grade

could communicate, get information or

often risking gunfire to their dwellings

world cultures students to discuss the U.S.

perform daily necessities such as pay bills

and apartment buildings.

response to the Myanmar conflict.

online. Food markets and other stores now have limited hours of operation,

The Zoom call was organized by Emily Kelting (parent of Lily ’01 and Ted ’05), discover more countryschool.net

”I was looking at the snail to see its eyes pop in and out of its face. We learned about all the snail body parts and also that they are cold-blooded.” —Bella Sosler

Worm Wrangling and Snail Observing: First Graders Learn How to Be Scientists “I AM TRYING TO FIND the mouth and

scientist. Skills to be mastered include

wiggler worms and design and imple-

am also studying the design of the shell,”

careful observation (using the science

ment investigations to see if they prefer

explained first grade science student

circle method, a cyclical version of the

wet or dry and light or dark. Wiggling

Dylan Shah, carefully examining the

scientific method), note-taking, formu-

worm experiments are second only in

grove snail in front of him. “I also want

lating a hypothesis, experiment design,

popularity to grove snails.

to find the respiratory pore.”

data collection and drawing conclusions.

“There is no better way to teach

“This one went up the cup and I was looking at its head and its little eyes with

science than to stimulate all the

engaging, stimulating and sensory, as

a magnifying glass,” said Rose Mallin

student’s senses,” said Science Teacher

they cumulatively scaffold concepts and

while simultaneously peering at a small

Chantal Detlefs, who oversees the

content. They also provide the opportu-

snail balanced on the edge of a plastic

science program for the Lower School

nity to do some worm wrangling.

cup and making notations in the pages of

division. “We aren’t afraid to get really

“This is where it gets particularly

a scientific observation journal.

messy, and what’s better than experi-

exciting and experiential,” said Ms.

ences with live animals?”

Detlefs. As part of their study and

Left: Dylan Shah

classification of various nonvertebrates,

Right: Bella Sosler

The first grade science curriculum is focused primarily on how to be a

Lesson plans are designed to be highly

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

the students “experiment” with live, red

Country School Has a New Cider House (and It Rules!) “I’VE IMAGINED having a ‘pop-up’ cider house on campus for a long time,” said Visual Arts Teacher Chris Lawler, who in addition to teaching woodworking skills has long overseen the school’s popular maple syrup program. Mr. Lawler began to realize his cider house dream as a series of seemingly unrelated events began to unfold. “We have this terrific portable wooden kiosk, a ‘discovery shack’ that was built in 2019 by Upper School Architecture students, that was easily relocated and reimagined as a cider house,” explained Mr. Lawler. He wasted no time collecting all of the cidering ephemera he would need to instruct students in the craft: an apple press, large glass jugs — the authentic kind with the little round handle only large enough to fit one finger — plastic funnels and a masher. He found many of the other things he needed in his shop or in the nearby maple syrup “sugar shack.” The apples were sourced in Mr. Lawler’s own backyard orchard and supplemented by more from the prodigious apple trees of the Fonners, a Country School family. A bushel later, and Country School was in the cider-making business. Eighth graders Ben Ryan, Hudson Feinberg, Ellis Frey and Liam Cannon were among those on the apple prep team. Using paring knives, they sliced the apples into easy-to-manage pieces that were then handed over to Andres Catano and Dean Calio, who took turns grinding them through the masher. Once pulverized, the apple pomace was placed carefully into the apple press by Drew Burr, and students including Freya Collins, Charlotte Cooper and Ryan Pauta took turns rotating the press’s large wooden handle clockwise until the juice began flowing. First a trickle — a tantalizing hint of what was to come — and then finally a steady stream. A few bits of seed could be detected floating in the as-yet-unfiltered brownish liquid. The one-gallon jug quickly began to fill and children squealed with delight, breaking their rhythm long enough to watch it fill and share high fives in celebration of success. “Did you know that apple cider was America’s first drink?” Mr. Lawler asked the students. Early settlers planted apple trees as early as 1620 in the Virginia, Mid-Atlantic and New England colonies. Pressing cider was the easiest way to preserve the apple crop and was the most common beverage, as most of the water at the time was unsafe to drink. “Back to work!” shouted Mr. Lawler with a grin. “Make sure everyone gets a turn at any of the jobs they want to try. There’s plenty to do for all.” From top: Starting preparations outside the new cider house. Drew Burr, Dean Calio and Andres Catano cut the apples. Drew Burr puts the apple pomace into the press. Freya Collins and Charlotte Cooper with the finished product.

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Early Childhood Egg Study: A Hands-On Exploration Using the Scientific Methods of Observation STUDENTS IN BEGINNERS and

feel different from the yolk? Driven

about eggs each spring in preparation

Kindergarten practiced their scientific

by their natural curiosity, the students

for the incubation of chicken eggs and

observation skills using chicken eggs for

discovered the answers to these and

welcoming of fluffy baby chicks.

a hands-on exploration. What does the

many other questions.

thick albumin feel like? What happens

The initial experience for Beginners

if you mix it with a stick? What does the

3/4 is the foundation on which additional

inner shell membrane feel like? What

layers are added in Beginners 4/5 and

does it smell like? How does the chalaza

Kindergarten. All of the students learn

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

Bottom left: Charlie Greig Right: Madison Moroney

Upper School Students Receive National Recognition in Latin, French and Spanish SEVERAL UPPER SCHOOL STUDENTS received state and national recognition following the National World Language exams, held March

Students who earned recognition on the 2021 National World Language Exams included:

30–31. Of note, Daniel Marin achieved a firstplace ranking in Connecticut on the national

FRENCH

SPANISH

LATIN

French exam while also earning a gold medal on

Gold

Summa Cum Laude

the national level. Maria Flores and Annie Nichols

Maria Flores

Conrado Calderini

Aoife Flanagan

also earned gold medals nationally in French.

Annie Nichols

Harper Teles

Ryan Pauta

Daniel Marin

Lila Gizzie

She, Harper Teles and Conrado Calderini each

Silver

Consuelo Bowman

earned gold medals nationally. Students who

Courtney Edwards

Ella Harvey

Dilara Khan

earned summa cum laude distinction on their

Dominic Hartmann

Ana Petricone

national Latin exam included Aoife Flanagan

Oliver Johnson

Isabella Sarracino

Magna Cum Laude

and Ryan Pauta.

Sebastian Kelsey

Caitlyn Edwards

Annie Harrigan Kieran

On the national Spanish exam, Lila Gizzie achieved an almost-perfect score of 99%.

Maxima Cum Laude

“These outstanding and well-deserved honors

Chandeny Rahman

Madeline Maliakal

are a testament to the consistent emphasis on

Dario Sanon

Will McKeown

two of our school’s core values, courage and

Chris Santa

curiosity — the courage to be a risk-taker and

Matthew Schell

Bronze

Ambika Nott

mistake-maker as a language-learner, and the

Sasha Valdes

Madelynn Hasbrouck

Chris Blair

curiosity to learn and grow in the discipline,”

Anna Zhuperina

Jane Walsh

Juliet Lannamann

said World Language Program Coordinator and

Mohindra-Green Riley Newport

Peyton Ambrose

Lower School Spanish Teacher Sean Robb. Other

Bronze

Capone Andrade

teachers in the school’s Pre-K through Grade 9

Lillian Back

Freya Collins

World Language program include Abigail Cali,

Caroline Coniglio

Lorena Chavez, Christie Lundquist, Catherine

Julia Coniglio

Mendoza ’98 and James Whittemore.

Jonathan Gavidia Ellie Levinson

Daniel Marin

Lila Gizzie

Aoife Flanagan

Ryan Pauta discover more countryschool.net

Pandemic Self-Portraits: Fourth Graders Document a Historic Moment in Time NEARLY ONE FULL YEAR INTO THE PANDEMIC, the fourth grade watercolor study transcended the boundaries of regular art instruction and took on a documentary quality, with each student painting a self-portrait wearing a protective mask. “This is such a specific moment in time,” said Visual Arts Teacher Liz Ferran whose students were finishing up a portraiture unit. “And because of this, and the potentially history-making, life-defining nature of the [COVID-19] pandemic, more than how they looked, I wanted the students to capture how they felt. Art is a tool of expression. I want them to get comfortable with using this tool.” Each student painted their portrait and then added narrative text to the back. “My happiest moment up until this time period has been the taste of tacos. My biggest concern this past year has been if my parents would be okay during COVID-19,” wrote Max Tangen in his notes. His artistic style is best described as whirly, swirly pen and ink, washed over with a pale amount of watercolor paint. It has a frenetic vibe. “I got the idea of writing the note on the back to try to document it all,” explained Ms. Ferran. “I say to the students, ‘You are going to look at this in 50 years and you are going to remember.’ It’s a time capsule, like a letter to their future self.” “Will I make a change in the world?” wrote Keira Smith. Keira’s self-portrait is a combination of styles: realism, with each strand of her distinctive auburn hair articulated in delicate, individual pen markings, and expressionism, with bolder, broader brushstrokes in watercolor jewel tones and somber grays. She confirms that when she began she felt enormous pressure to make everything “like a photograph,” but midway through, changed her approach. “At first I thought I had to get everything just right,” she recalled. “But then Ms. Ferran said that it’s okay to make mistakes in art, people don’t look perfect and it’s also okay to just capture the feeling of something. So I used a dark gray in the background because the mood right now is a little bit uncertain and because I like the way it makes the whole thing look.” Ava Lenhard (left) also experimented with the colors for her background and clothing. She settled on various shades of deep blues and turquoises and created a wavy, undulating design on her facemask. The overall effect calls to mind an ocean or a tropical vacation. “I’m optimistic [about COVID-19] and remaining calm,“ acknowledges Ava, who writes in her note of her aspiration to one day visit Costa Rica and hold a real sloth. “We’ll get through this.”

From top: Keira Smith, Max Tangen, Visual Arts Teacher Liz Ferran Inset: Ava Lenhard

Middle School Is WINNing AS STUDENTS ENTER their Middle School years, we know it is important to build in moments of choice for them. W.I.N.N. (What I Need Now) provided just this for fifth and sixth graders. A reimagined clubs opportunity, the W.I.N.N. period has become an opportunity for students to reflect on what they need in that moment as they consider the week’s offerings. Options varied throughout the year and always included a mix of physical, creative and reflective activities. Some of the choices include yoga, free read/free write, walk in the woods, trivia, watercolor, photography, kickball, birdwatching and coding. Throughout the year, we also sought student input for new offerings. Card games and tricks, brain teasers and puzzles, and origami were a few of the suggestions voiced by students. Always much-anticipated, W.I.N.N. allowed our Middle Schoolers to pursue current interests and to have novel experiences.

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FROGTOWN FAIR The 74th annual Frogtown Fair looked and felt a little bit different, in that only students, faculty and staff were allowed on campus at the time (due to the pandemic), but the Class of 2021 rose to the occasion and delivered an intimate and memorable event filled with games of skill and chance for the Lower School students to enjoy. First through fourth graders came through the midway by grade and found a variety of games and activities including fortune tellers, potion makers, face painters, temporary tattooists, mini golf, lacrosse, soccer and hockey goalies, hand-carved (and hand-pulled) carousel horse rides and a dunking booth.

4 1. Alexander Rizzo tried his luck on the midway. 2. Wilder Judelson took a dunk for the cause. 3. Rose Mallin rode atop one of the three hand-carved horses on the carousel. 4. The event was particularly poignant in that it was ninth-grade Teacher, Advisor and Coach Tom Giggi’s final Frogtown Fair. By his own estimation, he has led the ninth graders in their creation of the midway games for nearly 40 years. 5. Ella Harvey and Frances Chandor applied temporary tattoos on younger students including Jonah Britt-Friedman and Rowan Glennan.

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

More photos available www.nccs.smugmug.com

1 Parents, faculty and staff came out to support the school’s community celebration and fundraiser, June 5. Attendees were treated to a picnic-style gathering on the school’s campus with musical performances by three bands comprised of faculty and parent performers along with other musicians. Upper School Science Teacher Scott Lilley and Lower School Spanish Teacher Sean Robb combined forces as the Air Guitars for the opening act. Parents Ian Lear-Nickum and Mike Suozzi along with other bandmates performed as All Night Thing. During the intermission, guests enjoyed a video produced by parent Alex Leach of Fire Belly Sound. The evening wrapped up with a

performance by LiquorCake featuring parent Max Jellinek. The guests joining virtually from home were treated to a special performance by magician and mentalist Ryan Oakes ’93. Corporate sponsors included She La La, Neil Hauck Architects, Claris Construction, Rollin Tod of the Higgins Group, Encon Heating & AC, Camp Playland of

3 4

New Canaan and Teed & Brown Lawn Care. Above: NCCS parents Ian LearNickum and Mike Suozzi along with other bandmates performed as All Night Thing. 1. Charles Altchek, Cassie Bevan, Cynthia Reed Altcheck ’02 and Grade 5 Teacher Andrew Bevan 2. Chris and Sarah Irwin

3. The event was organized by parent co-chairs Arlety Bowman, Susan Barr, Molly Reilly and Allison Ryan. 4. Westy Charlson LeConey ’93, Sanny Burnham Warner ’88, Sharon Gibbons Teles ’88 and Katie Rothschild

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17 18

20 16 19

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

30 31

5. Alex Leach, Mason Lenhard, Anna Halynski, Tatyana Vesselovskaya, Eral Gokgol-Kline and Rebecca Thornton ’92 6. Rich Dell’Aquila, Spencer Mallozzi ’92, Morgan Dell’Aquila, Ellen and Steve Thompson, and Whitney Mallozzi 7. LiquorCake featuring NCCS parent Max Jellinek 8. Eral Gokgol-Kline, Alexandra Jordan Stinchcomb ’98 and Josh Stinchcomb, and Casey Kilcullen 9. Carlyle and David Upson 10. Tom and Erin Kanter 11. Gwen Golden and Tucker Golden ’90, Matt LeBaron and Arlety Bowman 12. Stu Juarez and Edite Juarez-Lace 13. Joe and Sonia O’Connor, Paul and Kelly McKeown, and John Ryan 14. Paula Kennedy Harrigan ’81 and Bo Harrigan 15. Upper School Science Teacher, Advisor and Coach Scott Lilley of the Air Guitars 16. Suzie Jellinek, Polly Goodyear and Andrea Matthews 17. Justin Aronson and Dino Ghoussias 18. Susanna Nichols, Doug Parker, Phil Ruvinsky and Leigh Kennedy 19. Nicole Harder, Sarah Cetrulo and Maureen Knowles 20. Ivor Forrester, Richard Sellschop and Kathryn Knight 21. Fabian Pauta, Angela Detan, Flavie Noel and Anthony Coniglio 22. Paul and Megan Hudson, Kay and Jay Garrett 23. Lower School Spanish Teacher Sean Robb of the Air Guitars 24. Bill Kelsey, Michelle Saldivar, Carlyle and David Upson, Dan Malkoun, and Jill Gordon 25. David and Shannon Kieske, and Dan Malkoun 26. Lu and Tom Feng 27. Kate Benett, Max Jellinek and Steve Matthews 28. Kurt and Erica Visokey, Valentina and Rick Bank 29. Steve Petricone and Ryan Nally 30. Devon Suozzi and Ian Lear-Nickum 31. NCCS parents Ian Lear-Nickum and Mike Suozzi along with other bandmates performed as All Night Thing.

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The Parents’ Association provided a welcome sense of community in a nontraditional school year. 2021–2022 PA Executive Council Gwen Golden, President Jen Kline, President-Elect/Interim VP Community, Diversity & Inclusion Carina Calia, Treasurer Shannon Kieske, Secretary Hilary Flanagan, VP, Community Service Sonia O’Connor, VP, Volunteers Ashley Williams, VP, Communications

PA Committees & Events

NCCS parents enjoyed a virtual, hands-on exploration of Mixed Media Collage

• Annual Fund Ambassadors

coordinator and archivist. Participants received a bag of materials, and many

guided by Mark Macrides, Visual Arts Program coordinator and teacher, events

• Campus Beautification

added some of their own meaningful additions to create a custom piece of

• Class Representative Program

artwork. The experience was interactive, inspiring and relaxing for many who

• Community Service —

enjoyed learning a new skill and

Early Childhood • Community Service — Lower School • Community Service — Middle & Upper School • Cougar Run

creating something outside of their familiar comfort zones. The parent education series provides a way for parents to come together around shared interests while also getting

• DEI Task Force

to experience the hands-on,

• Faculty & Staff Appreciation

project-based style of educa-

• Festival of Books

tion for which Country School

• Frogtown Fair • Greenery

is known. Additional offerings included a technology class with Director of Innovation

• Host Family Program

and Academic Technology Aron

• Kyle A. Markes Day of Service

Back, a parenting presenta-

• Logo

tion on transitions for children

• Nominating & Appointments

during these challenging time(s)

• Sports Photography Coordinator • Mothers at Work • Upper School Dinner

Parent Education Series

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

by professional counselor, educator, therapist and parent Andreé Palmgren, and a cooking class with Caryn Antonini ’87.

PA Shares Gratitude:

NCCS Faculty & Staff Are Superheroes! 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. During the spring, these included dinners to go and a day completely dedicated to showing gratitude and appreciation. 1. On May 5, the PA celebrated NCCS faculty and staff with a day of appreciation and gratitude. 2. Lower School students posed with the “Caped Cougar” during Faculty & Staff Appreciation Day. (Front row left to right): Tata Harper, Claire Charnin, Taylor Kern, Natalie Cahill, Elin Charron, Tilly Mann. (Second row left to right): Courtney Rumilly, Archer MacLear, Declan McMullen, Ben Cotter, Major Hasbrouck, Michael Faugno and Michael Suozzi. 3. Ella Harvey, Oliver Jellinek and Cece Johnson were among the ninth graders who went to each

academic building with handmade signs and noisemakers to show their appreciation for their current and former teachers. 4. Tully Newport, Avery Costigan and Ethan Costigan joined the “Caped Cougar” mascot to greet families during morning drop-off. 5. Students thanked faculty and staff. 6. Liz Arredondo, 2020–2021 PA President Liz Keogh, and Advancement Support Manager Renee Bornstein were among those instrumental in facilitating family dinner delivery to all members of the faculty and staff April 9.

“The PA is so grateful to the NCCS faculty and staff for the extraordinary efforts they’ve put forth in the past year to keep our school community healthy and strong! The flexibility and resilience shown by them will resonate throughout our community for years to come!” —Liz Keogh, 2020–2021 PA President

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A Commitment to Service

Larger Than the Sum of Our Parts:

NCCS Community Comes Together for 7th Annual Kyle A. Markes Day of Service Country School families came together, in person and online,

held annually pre-pandemic, students this year participated in a

to serve the wide-ranging needs of 14 local nonprofit organiza-

“Markes Madness Diaper Dunk!” whereby each homeroom class

tions April 17. They were participating in the seventh annual

earned one basketball free throw for every box of macaroni

Kyle A. Markes Day of Service, in honor of an NCCS classmate

and cheese they donated, as well as five free throws for every

who passed away in 2013. Kyle was passionate about community

package of diapers donated. Students then got to take free

service and basketball, and the annual event incorporates both.

throws and try to “win” by sinking the most shots. All food

Volunteers restocked the food pantries at New Covenant

items collected were delivered to Person-to-Person on April 17.

Center (Stamford) and Person-to-Person (Norwalk); performed spring cleanup and planted flowers for Waveny Care Center (New Canaan), the New Canaan Inn (New Canaan), Open Door Shelter (Norwalk) and Inspirica (Stamford); and fulfilled the wishlists of nonprofit organizations including the Boys & Girls Club of Stamford, Building One Community (Stamford), Filling in the Blanks (Norwalk), the Horizon Family Fund Emergency Fund (New Canaan), Family & Children’s Agency (Norwalk) and Camp AmeriKids (Stamford). Volunteers also made fleece blankets for the babies in the NICU and cards for the mothers comforted by the Tiny Miracles Foundation (New Canaan) and provided toys for pediatric patients of Yale’s Smilow Cancer Center (New Haven).

1. Families worked together at home to create notes of encouragement to send to Filling in the Blanks, an organization that fights childhood hunger, to be included in weekend meal packs. 2. Chloe and Aimee Ableman 3. Regina, Alie, Mark and John Betz; Erica Visokey; Tom, Erin, Vivian and Lillian Kanter; and Liz, Kyle and Daley Keogh performed spring cleanup at the nonprofit Inspirica, in Stamford.

4. Kyle A. Markes Day of Service Committee Chairs Aimee Ableman, Lindsay O’Donnell, Sally Fonner and Kristin Cahill 5. Gwyneth Majmudar 6. Marin Gokgol-Kline was among a group of volunteers who replanted flowers at the entrance to Waveny Care Center in New Canaan. 7. Sarah, Nico, Oliver and Erik Cetrulo brightened the entrance of the nonprofit agency Open Door Shelter of Norwalk with flowers.

In a twist on the 3x3 basketball tournament and student fundraiser

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

More photos available www.nccs.smugmug.com

Campus Beautification

Parents, students, faculty and staff gathered April 24 to brighten each building’s entrance and ensure that the NCCS campus is a joyful place to learn, visit and work.

Volunteers Clean Up Cove Island

NCCS community members spent a day at Cove Island, an inlet in Stamford, where they picked up 30 pounds of trash and 47 bottle caps, which will be counted toward the Sound Waters “One Million Bottle Cap” Challenge.

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Building Brighter Futures Since 1964 Hosted at New Canaan Country School

HORIZONS HIGH SCHOOL

Graduates Celebrate 95% College Placement

“May you be blessed with the foolishness to think that you can make a difference in this world, so that you will do the things which others tell you cannot be done.” —Executive Director Nancy von Euler Twenty-two graduating seniors in the

McMahon High School’s Center for

Horizons at New Canaan Country School

Global Studies in Norwalk, shared

Class of 2021 were honored on June 12.

inspirational thoughts for her fellow

Among the graduates were NCCS

ibly challenging year. She charged her

each of who both received awards. Brian,

fellow graduates “to be confident in

a 2021 graduate of Rye Country Day

college and in the journey ahead of us

School and 2018 graduate of New Canaan

to be curious, strong, atypical, and be

family, friends and the great program

Country School, was presented the Leah

extraordinary, I want everyone to go

that is Horizons.” Bankwell, together

Kimmet Spirit Award by Nehemie Moïse,

out there and reclaim your time.”

with contributions from the Horizons

Family Council, gifted our graduates

Horizons Director of Student and Family

Monae Cherry, Horizons Class of

Support, and Family Council representa-

2011, shared reflections as the alumni

with a new piece of luggage filled with

tive Luisa Osorio. The award recognizes

speaker and led the recitation of

essentials to help prepare them for the

a graduating Horizons high school senior

the Alumni Association Oath as the

next step in their educational journey.

for their outstanding kindness, enthu-

graduating class became inducted

siasm and dedication to others. Brian is

into the Horizons Alumni Association.

closed the ceremony with a Franciscan

currently attending Columbia University.

Monae joined the NCCS Apprentice

blessing that beautifully reflected the

Jennifer, a 2021 graduate of Greens

Teacher Training Program this fall.

Horizons values and hopes for the impact

Farms Academy and 2018 graduate of

Bankwell sponsored the graduation

Executive Director Nancy von Euler

the graduates will have as they head

New Canaan Country School who is

event for the third year in a row, recog-

into the world: “May you be blessed with

currently attending the University of

nizing the resilience, hard work and

the foolishness to think that you can

Pennsylvania, was presented the Jackie

dedication of these seniors, many of

make a difference in this world, so that

Roberson Valedictorian Award by Ms.

whom started with the program before

you will do the things which others tell

Roberson, Horizons Senior Program

third grade. Bankwell Branch Manager

you cannot be done.” All students were

Dean of Students and Culture. This

Toure Surgeon, a Horizons alumnus

asked to take a plant that lined the stage

award is in recognition of the student

from the Class of 2006, kicked off the

and present it to their family in recogni-

who has received the highest cumula-

ceremony by saying: “Undoubtedly the

tion of the love and support that helped

tive, weighted GPA throughout their

accomplishments from this group are

them get to this important milestone.

high school years and is known for

unprecedented as they successfully

their integrity and active involve-

navigated through a year of COVID,

ment in the Horizons program.

virtual classes and social issues. This

The class student speaker, Kemberly Denerville, a 2021 graduate of Brien

seniors who made it through an incred-

alumni Jennifer Llamas and Brian Villalta,

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

class has shown true resolve and I can guarantee it originates from their

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

HORIZONS CLASS OF 2021 College Destinations Columbia University, Fordham University, Norwalk Community College, Southern Connecticut State University, Springfield College, University of Connecticut (Stamford), University of Connecticut (Storrs), University of Pennsylvania, University of Massachusetts (Boston), Western Connecticut State University and Western New England University.

1. Brian Villalta ’18 received the Leah Kimmet Spirit Award and currently attends Columbia University. Jennifer Llamas ’18 received the Jackie Roberson Valedictorian Award and attends the University of Pennsylvania. 2. The class student speaker, Kemberly Denerville, a 2021 graduate of Brien McMahon High School’s Center for Global Studies in Norwalk, shared inspirational thoughts for her fellow seniors who made it through an incredibly challenging year. 3. Members of the Horizons at NCCS Graduating Class of 2021 included (front row left to right): Kemberly, Carlos, Luis, Jerry; (second row left to right): Michael, Kimberly, Laura, Thaliane, Jennifer; (third row left to right): Madelyn, Alyssa, Andres, Julieta; (fourth row left to right): Talana, Brian, Lucas and Andrew.

NEW HORIZONS SWIMMING POOL A

Springboard for Student Success The Horizons at New Canaan Country School Board, Board of Governors and leadership donors gathered Sept. 8, to dedicate the new and improved McNaught Pool and celebrate Horizon’s 57th successful year. Executive Director Nancy von Euler shared with those assembled the importance of the pool and the ripple effect of Horizons’ swimming program: “In addition to serving as a tool to build

swimming skills, self-esteem and confidence in students, the

pool also offers the opportunity to provide swim instruction for the students’ adult caregivers and lifeguard training and job skills for older students and alumni.” 1. Lyn McNaught, former Horizons at NCCS Executive Director, whose leadership led to the building of the original Horizons pool, was in attendance with Michael McNaught, former NCCS administrator. 2. Nancy von Euler introduced Horizons Board Chair Sanny Burnham Warner ’88 who led the dedication ceremony by expressing her gratitude: “We are beyond grateful to the generous donors who made the new McNaught Pool a reality.” 3. Longtime supporters Jane Stoddard Williams ’72 and John and Nancy Ziac (former NCCS administrator and teacher, respectively) attended the celebration. 4. Jed Stevens ’78 (son of Horizons at NCCS founder and former NCCS Headmaster George Stevens) and wife Kerry Stevens (former Horizons at NCCS Executive Director) were among those honored for their leadership and support.

1 2

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Summer Program Is Back with a Splash! Two hundred sixty Horizons students

Students in the Junior Program

in Kindergarten through Grade 9 were

(Kindergarten through Grade 5) started

welcomed to Country School’s campus

their day with morning meetings and

for five weeks of in-person academic and

class time, and participated in art,

enrichment programming on June 28.

music, STEAM, physical education and

Originally founded in 1964, the Horizons

swimming in the on-campus Horizons

summer program provided a blend of

pool. Senior Program students (Grades

high-quality academics, cultural enrich-

6–9) spent classroom time focused on

ments and confidence-building activi-

English language arts, math, STEAM,

ties such as swimming, performing and

woodshop, cooking and physical

visual arts and sports to under-resourced

education, and rounded out their

students living in Norwalk and Stamford.

days with recreational swimming.

“We are grateful to be able to

NCCS

A highlight of this year’s program once

have our students back on campus

again included Wacky Wednesdays. A

for an incredibly important summer

favorite Horizons tradition, these themed

of learning, growth and healing in

days included age-appropriate activities

our caring summer community,” said

and experiences for all. Nature Day, for

Executive Director Nancy von Euler

example, included animal visits, fishing,

in remarks made on opening day. The

a walk and ropes course experience in

theme for 2021, Horizons C.A.R.E.S.

the NCCS woods, chalk art and a scav-

(Community, Action, Responsibility,

enger hunt. On another Wednesday, a

Empowerment and Safety), was reflected

health and wellness fair included yoga,

in all elements of the program including

mental health resources, a therapy dog

a community pledge, curricula and

named Gizmo, hip-hop and Zumba dance

special events. Beyond that — and an

classes, relaxation through meditation

increase in the number of activities

and education on the

held outdoors due to safety protocols

topics of healthy

— the 57th summer program followed

eating habits,

a comfortably familiar routine.

safety and

Horizons at NCCS Benefit

SAVE THE DATE! Sat., June 4

HORIZONS!

It was wonderful to see so many NCCS friends return to campus in July to help make the

• Aaron

57th Horizons at New Canaan Country School Summer Program a success! Some of the

Watkins ’18,

current and former NCCS students, faculty, staff and parents who pitched in included:

Swim Program

Recipe for Success, Celebrating Bright Futures

Teaching Assistant, NCCS Alumni • Kate Barnard ’20, Teaching Assistant, Horizons Senior Program

Assistant, Horizons Junior Program

• Ella Zea ’19, Literacy Teaching

• Sofia Petricone ’20, Volunteer

Assistant in Training,

• Caroline Blouin ’19, Volunteer

• Riya Punjabi ’20, Volunteer

Horizons Junior Program

• Carl Brodnax ’76, Physical Education

• Maggie Ruvinsky ’19, Kindergarten

Lead Teacher, Horizons Junior Program • Elsa Franks ’21, Volunteer • Jennifer Llamas ’18, Grade 4 Teaching Assistant, Horizons Junior Program • Gigi Morgan ’19, Volunteer

Horizons Junior Program

• Ramses Perez ’19, Grade 4 Teaching

Teaching Assistant in Training, Horizons Junior Program • Anna Sheridan ’19, Music Teaching Assistant in Training, Horizons Junior Program

• Caitlin Neafsey ’19, Volunteer

• Ryland Strine ’20, Volunteer

• Riley Newport ’22, Volunteer

• Brian Villalta ’18, Kindergarten Teaching Assistant, Horizons Junior Program

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

wellness resources, healthy relationships

we hold each other accountable, we

and the dangers of alcohol and drug use.

encourage one another, and we support

Noting that the COVID-19 pandemic has

one another,” said Junior Program Dean

been particularly difficult for Horizons

of Students and Culture Tanya Small.

students and their families, Horizons

Students received graduation certifi-

administrators deliberately chose

cates from the Grade 5 teaching team

themes of health, wellness and nature

and walked across a small wooden

as a counterbalance to the prior year.

bridge where they were greeted by

The summer concluded with the

Senior Program Dean of Students and

Grade 5 Moving Up Ceremony that

Culture Jackie Roberson and Senior

celebrated the accomplishments of the

Program Director Tim Rivlin, a symbolic

Junior Program students, reemphasized

rite of passage welcoming them into

the program’s core values of kindness

the Horizons Senior Program.

and community, and welcomed them into the Horizons Senior Program. “While the world is not always kind to us, I want you all to remember to be kind to one another. We are a family, and as a family, we take care of each other,

1. The new Horizons pool was a big hit with everyone, including these first grade students and their swim instructors. 2. Morning meeting for the first grade in their outdoor classroom. 3. Walking over the bridge

4. Hats off to the Horizons fifth grade class for moving up to the Senior Program! 5. Fourth-grader Morgan puts the “I” in Kind, one of several art installations to be found around. 6. Junior Program Swim Teacher Eric Fischman and Junior Program Dean of Students and Culture Tanya Small presented Adrian with the Charles “Chuck” Szlachetka Award for good conduct and citizenship. 7. Fourth-grader Ashley and Jennifer Llamas ’18 8. NCCS Arts Teacher Chris Lawler taught Grade 7 woodshop enrichment classes. 9. Lower School Spanish Teacher and World Language Program Coordinator Sean Robb 10. Carl Brodnax ’76 Horizons Junior Program Physical Education Teacher shared basketball tips with students Alexandra and Kaden. *Last names of Horizons students have been omitted for their privacy.

Faculty & Staff • Monae Cherry, Kindergarten Lead Teacher, Horizons Junior Program • Raphe Elkind, Literacy Coach, Horizons Junior Program • Rinku Ghadiyali, Grade 6 STEM Lead Teacher, Horizons Senior Program • Annie Upton Henry, Grade 1 Lead

Teacher, Horizons Junior Program • Brayden Henry, Grade 7 Boys ELA Lead Teacher, Horizons Senior Program • Chris Lawler, Grade 7 Woodshop Lead Teacher, Horizons Senior Program • Isadora Machado, Grade 6 Art Lead Teacher, Horizons Senior Program

Parents

• Jen Barnard, Volunteer

• Laura Cramer, Volunteer • Jen Kline, Volunteer • Lisa Pannone-Bria, Volunteer • Kerry Stevens, Volunteer

• Sean Robb, Grade 3 Lead Teacher, Horizons Junior Program discover more countryschool.net

ALUMNInews Fellow Alumni,

I am thrilled to serve as the next President of the Alumni Council and look forward to a great three years ahead! My predecessor, Tucker Golden ’90, has helped to take our alumni program to new heights and I’m excited to build on our collective successes in the years to come. We are lucky to have Tucker remaining in the role of Vice President of the Board of Trustees, where he will no doubt continue to represent alumni interests and serve our school in many ways. I had an incredible experience as a student at Country School (as did my siblings Matt Young ’03 and Jason Young ’95) — and it has been even more gratifying being back here as a parent. My three children, Charlie, Lily and Teddy, all attend, and my husband, Casey, and I feel so lucky to be part of the current community. The leadership, teachers, programming and community are all that you remember but even better. Country School has remained true to itself while continuing to improve and grow — and maintaining its unique culture and sense of place. I welcome you all to come back for a visit, whether it be for your next reunion or whenever you’re in town. I guarantee you will find happy memories of childhood waiting for you all

Alumni Council President the past three

As alumni, we are important stewards of the history, tradition and culture here

years! Tucker has worked tirelessly in this

on the corner of Frogtown and Ponus. I urge you to find ways to participate in the community in ways that make sense for you. You can be a Class Agent, a Reunion Chair, or a member of our Alumni Council. You can attend alumni events, submit Class Notes, contribute to the Annual Fund, or even just carve out time for a visit or call with our Director of Alumni Affairs, Holly Donaldson Casella ’04. I know we can all get involved to ensure that today’s Country School students, and tomorrow’s, have the same great Thank you for all that you already do for Country School — and I look forward to

A warm and enthusiastic thank you to Tucker Golden ’90 for his service as

around campus.

opportunities we had at NCCS.

THANK YOU, TUCKER!

role and as a member of the Board of Trustees — and we are thrilled that he will remain on the Board in the capacity of Vice President. Tucker’s wife, Gwen Golden, also joins the Board as President of the Parents’ Association. Thank you, Golden family!

partnering with you in the years ahead! Boldly Forward,

Get Involved!

There are many ways to connect with the Country

School community — and the Alumni Office wants your help! We need Class

Sarah Young Kilcullen ’98

Agents, Reunion Chairs, help with Class Notes, Event Committee members and more. Reach out for more information! Contact Holly Donaldson Casella ’04, Director of Alumni Affairs, at hcasella@countryschool.net or (203) 801-5687.

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

Class Notes 1946

James Gaston retired after a 30-year career in surgery at Weill Cornell treating breast cancer patients in New York City. Jim and his wife Gail now spend winters in Florida and summers in NYC.

1949

Courtenay “Court” Haight of South Blue Hill, ME, passed away on Feb. 7, 2021. Please see In Memoriam. Addison Cushman “Cush” May of Warwick, NY, and Stamford, CT, passed away on June 5, 2021 in Stamford. Please see In Memoriam.

1953

Sandra Garland Bull writes, “Still here with all my original parts intact and striving to live outside the box with patience, love and humor. Good memories to all.”

1956

Wonderful news! Jerry Bremer got married in April to Mimi Fleury.

1957

1 Jeff Soles shares, “My wife of some 40 years died of an awful disease, MSA (multiple system atrophy), three years ago, and I am still missing her greatly. To stay

busy, I continue to excavate in Crete with a two-year permit from the American School of Classical Studies in Athens, digging a Middle Bronze Age area on the small island of Mochlos dating ca.1900–1700 BC. Old classmates from NCCS are more than welcome to visit. The swimming is beautiful! I have attached a picture of the island where I work. We also have a website (www.mochlosarchaeologicalproject.org) and a Facebook page at Mochlos. I’m often in New York, and it might be fun to revisit New Canaan some day (when COVID is behind us).”

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.

1958

The Alumni Office heard that Duncan Bremer is doing well. His middle son Justin has been working hard as a medical doctor in Virginia. Timothy Fitzgerald Noble of Cape May Court House, NJ, passed away June 9, 2021. Please see In Memoriam.

Jeff Soles ’57

Lyn Bremer Chivvis ’60 and family

1960

2 Lyn Bremer Chivvis reports “The Chivvis family made it through the COVID quarantine and we adults all got our vaccinations, including Uma who turned 12 in July. Chris ’86 did a triathlon (swim 2 miles, cycle 112 miles, then run a marathon) on June 26, the day before his birthday. The family joke was: We hope he finishes before he turns 50. I told him he finished with 5 hours to spare. He actually came in 2nd! Here is the whole Chivvis family on June 28 — the day after celebrating Christopher’s 50th

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1966 3

Rick Rosenthal ’64

Heather Knight Pech ’77 with NCCS parent Heidi Mitchell P’17, ’20 and NCCS teacher Julie Porter.

Ben Bensen writes, “Tucker Swan moved to Amherst last year and we’ve actually been able to ride our bikes together a few times, compare spandex, and try to arrange dinner dates. This brings back memories of the good old days of three speeds and bicycling to school via Frogtown Road. He and Diane will have ridden across Iowa together (with several thousand of their close friends) by the time this sees print; just a little ride compared to his cross-country trek of a few years ago. Meanwhile, I’ll have done my fifth New England Parkinson’s Ride in honor of a Bowdoin classmate who has PD, and I appreciate everyone’s support for this great cause. Along with some hiking, some running (if you call it that) and filling up the woodshed, I’ve even managed to do some travel and correspondence with classmates.”

birthday! Chris ’86, Beecher (peeking out from behind) Kiran, Devon ’89, Sumona, Dana ’96, Rachel, Uma, and Usha in front. NB: The bicycle on top of the car!” Lyn also remembered Tim Noble ’58: “He was a truly good person and a lifelong friend of the Bremer and the Chivvis families. He will be missed by all who knew him. Our sympathy and thoughts go to Tim’s family and friends.”

1963

Betsy Jones Zwick writes, “Survived the COVID outbreak in Santa Barbara which turned out to be a Mecca for all the people living in Los Angeles. Did some painting, some writing and played a lot of golf. Still selling real estate and the market has gone ballistic. Hope all my classmates have fared well during this unusual time.”

1964

3 Rick Rosenthal produced two films premiering this summer: The Boy Behind the Door on July 29 and Shudder and Small Engine Repair on September 10 in a theater near you!

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

1968

Mike Bremer has retired from his career as a middle school teacher, and his wife, Mari, has retired from a career in education as well.

1969

Meg Bremer Nero is living safely and happily in Meridian, ID. Her granddaughter was born in August 2020. Alison Taggart-Barone writes, “My husband, Larry Barone, and I are retired and living just outside of San Francisco. I still volunteer for the National Parks as photographer and photo editor at the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, and am working on expanding my photo art practice. Our three children are all living on the West Coast now, which makes us very happy. Sadly, my mother Dee (Taggart) Osborn passed away in June 2020, at the advanced age of 93. My brother, Rush ’68, splits his time between his homes in Valley Forge, PA, and Little Compton, RI. My younger brother, Stewart, lives outside of Honolulu. Wondering what Alden Richards, Karen Reideman Burdette, Anne Bowman Gowing, and Bill Throop ’68 are up to?”

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.

1972

Amy Chan Downer welcomed two grandchildren this year — Georgie and Milo — born to Nick Downer ’03 and Caroline Downer ’04, respectively. Congratulations! See more on page 57.

1976

Brin Luther shares, “Hello 76ers — I moved on July 1 to Middleburg, VA, to be closer to my mare who moved over here last March now that I can work from home permanently. It’s wonderful horse countryside and if you find yourselves out this way, please look me up. Life at age 60 has me planning for retirement, fox hunting, travel, volunteer work by age 65 AND our NCCS 50th reunion. I hope many of us will be able to make it back to New Canaan. I recall so much of our years there...our class play, As You Like It, freezing in the old upper school building wearing our down coats indoors in Mr. Carter’s math class, epic field hockey games and reading books curled up on the window sill seats in the library with Mrs. Caulfield stopping by to say hello. Here’s to 2021 forward helping our world to heal from this pandemic and to so many more challenges. Best wishes to everyone.”

1977

4 Heather Knight Pech coached Heidi Mitchell P ’17, ’20 and Grade 3 Teacher Julie Porter who ran the McKirdy Marathon at Rockland Lake State Park together and snagged Boston Qualifying times (3:31 and 3:30)!

Class Notes

Alumni Award Winner A.J. MLECZKO ’90

We are pleased to announce that Olympic gold medal-winning athlete and ice hockey analyst A.J. Mleczko ’90 will be presented with the 2021 Alumni Award. “Trailblazer, world-class athlete, accomplished team leader, talented analyst, respected on-air sports professional and dedicated wife, daughter and mother, it gives me great pride to recognize A.J. Mleczko for her numerous accomplishments,” said Head of School Aaron Cooper. The Alumni Award is presented each year to honor an alumna or alumnus who has had “the courage and confidence to make a positive contribution to the world.” Mleczko is a daughter of Bambi and former Country School Science Teacher and Coach Tom Mleczko, and a sibling of Wink Mleczko van Ogtrop ’88 and Jason Mleczko ’95. We look forward to welcoming A.J. back to campus. Stay tuned for event details coming soon!

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

1980 5

Joy and Jeff Peters were married Oct. 17.

Please submit your news and

updates to Director of Alumni

1986

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

Chris Chivvis did a triathalon (swim 2 miles, cycle 112 miles, then run a marathon) on June 26, the day before his birthday. The family joke was: We hope he finishes before he turns 50. He actually came in 2nd! 6

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,

1990

Jeff Peters ’80

Kiran, Sumona, Chris ’86, Uma and Usha Chivvis

children or others in our community!

Thank you to Tucker Golden for his service as Alumni Council President these past three years! Read more on page 52. We look forward to celebrating A.J. Mleczko Griswold as our 2021 Alumni Award Winner! See more above.

1993

7 Whitney Wolfe and John V. Connorton III welcomed Margaret Wolfe “Daisy” Connorton in January!

Whitney Wolfe ’93

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1998

Russell Budnick and wife Ashley just welcomed their third child, Harlow, who joins Helena and Henry.

Allison Smith ’98 is participating in the NCCS Apprentice Teacher Training Program. Welcome back!

Alexandra Jamali ’00

8 From Academy Award-nominated and Emmy-winning filmmaker Matthew Heineman come two films: The Boy From Medellín, an astonishingly intimate portrait of J. Balvin, one of the biggest international music superstars of our time, (streaming on Amazon), and The First Wave, a feature documentary film with exclusive access inside one of New York City’s hardest-hit hospital systems during the harrowing first four months of the COVID-19 pandemic (broadcast by National Geographic in 172 countries).

We are excited to welcome Sarah Young Kilcullen as our next Alumni Council President! Read more on page 52.

1999

9 Katie Stoller Ludwig, daughter of Director of Technology David Stoller, shared that she and her husband, Jeff, welcomed their second son, Finnegan David Ludwig, in May 2021.

8 Academy Award-nominated and Emmywinning filmmaker Matt Heineman ’98

2000

10 Alexandra Jamali and her partner Reed welcomed baby Eula in August! Congratulations to the happy family — and to Eula’s grandmother and former NCCS teacher, Topsy Post ’66!

Katie Stoller Ludwig ’99

Arielle Traub ’00

11 Arielle Traub writes, “I am happy to announce the arrival of my son Asher Samuel Traub Prosnit, born June 11. Big siblings Caleb and Zoe are thrilled.”

DOUBLE YOUR DONATION!

Corporate matching gifts are a great way to maximize personal contributions to Country School and increase the impact of your gift. Help Country School receive double the amount of your gift, at no additional cost to you! Inquire with your human resources department or visit our website to use our online matching gift database at www.countryschool.net/giving/ways-to-give. Call a member of our Advancement Office at (203) 801-5600 with questions.

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

Class Notes

CALLING ALL ALUMNI AND FORMER FACULTY & STAFF WORKING IN THE ENVIRONMENTAL FIELD

Nick Downer ’03

Would you be willing to be a guest speaker in one of our classrooms? Can we feature you on our new environmental sustainability webpage? Please contact Director of Alumni Affairs Holly Donaldson Casella ’04 at hcasella@countryschool.net or

12 Thomas Reed ’01 and Brooke Cavanaugh Reed ’01

(203) 801-5687.

Chelsea Laverack Clifford ’03

Caroline Downer ’04

Alexa Reid Smith ’04

2001

Will Bartholomew has joined the litigation practice at Manhattan law firm Emmet, Marvin and Martin as an associate attorney. His focus is on white collar criminal defense and investigations, securities litigation and complex civil matters. The firm is the second oldest in the country, having been founded in 1805. Will graduated from Hamilton College in 2008 and received his J.D. from New York Law School, magna cum laude, in 2014 where he was editor in chief of the Law Review. 12 Thomas Reed and Brooke Cavanaugh Reed welcomed Roslyn Thomas Reed V on March 24, 2021.

2002

13 Annie Rauscher ’02 Kennedy and Lexi Norton ’02

Kate Krause writes, “I am living in Boston and a general surgery resident at Massachusetts General Hospital with a plan to start a cardiothoracic surgery fellowship in 2022. Hope Krause Kremer is moving back to the East Coast from CA to Portland, ME, which we are both excited about! Still stay in close touch with lots of NCCS friends!!!”

13 Annie Rauscher Kennedy, her son Conor, and Lexi Norton and her daughter Addie had a playdate in Nantucket.

15 Chelsea Laverack Clifford and her husband, Scott, welcomed their first baby, Theodore Knight Clifford, on April 25, 2021.

2003

2004

14 Nick Downer and his wife, Jo, welcomed a baby girl, “Georgie,” in January.

17 Alexa Reid Smith and husband Colin welcomed Wyatt Reid Smith on Jan. 27, 2021.

Rory Budnick is a software engineer in Santa Barbara, CA.

16 Caroline Downer and her husband, Drew, welcomed baby Milo in June.

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

2005

Annie Budnick finished her NYU master’s and is a licensed nurse practitioner. 18

2007

Kaela Diomede married Adam Wetzel on Sept. 5, 2020.

2011

21 Mayze Teitler was named Vice President, Board of Student Advisors at Harvard Law School. The BSA is a student organization charged with providing several essential services to the law school community: they serve as teaching assistants in the First Year Legal Research and Writing Program, as peer advisors to members of the first-year class and transfer students, and as administrators of the Ames Moot Court competition.

Carter Jensen ’05

Janie Budnick just moved to New Canaan and is teaching in White Plains. Carter Jensen and Kelsey Sher were happily married on June 26, 2021, at his Aunt’s farm in Medusa, NY. They currently reside in the Harbor Point neighborhood of Stamford. Kelsey is a merchandise manager with Shiseido Cosmetics and Carter works at the golf technology startup, Arccos Golf. 18

2012

22 Kyla Johns, Lindsay Ferretti ’19 and Katharine Calderwood P ’18, ’20, ’24 were among those named Women of Distinction for 2021 by the Darien/Norwalk YWCA. The

19 Julia Maguire and her husband Lucas welcomed a baby girl, Violet, in April.

Julia Maguire ’05

Daley O’Herron Avery ’05

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

20 Kyle and Daley O’Herron Avery were married on July 10. In attendance were Hannah ’13, Phoebe ’15 and Elizabeth ’15 Casey; Sarah ’02, Connor ’03, Cornelia ’06 and Tucker Burleigh ’08, Chris Rogers ’05; and Jeannie Staunton Bean ’83 and Anna Bean ’15.

Mayze Teitler ’11 (center, in light grey shirt)

22 NCCS parent Katharine Calderwood P ’18, ’20, ’24, Lindsay Ferretti ’19 and Kyla Johns ’12 were honored with the 2021 Women of Distinction Award by the Darien YWCA.

Class Notes award is bestowed in recognition of the outstanding achievements of a select group of women who live or work in Darien and Norwalk. Each has made a difference in our community with their significant and unique contributions. Congratulations! Andrew Laub of New Canaan, CT, passed away May 20, 2021. Please see In Memoriam. 23 Charlotte Zonis was a production manager on two recent films. The Boy from Medellín, which followed internationally renowned singer J. Balvin as he prepared for the most important concert of his career — a sold-out stadium show in his hometown of Medellín, Colombia. The film debuted May 7 on Amazon to wide acclaim. The First Wave, a feature documentary film with exclusive access inside one of New York City’s hardest-hit hospital systems during the harrowing first four months of the COVID-19 pandemic, was broadcast by National Geographic in 172 countries. For more, see the note about Matt Heineman ’98 on page 56.

John Fox ’13

Kyle Salvatore ’13

Christopher Jessup ’14

Luke Leasure ’14

Clay Kontulis ’12 and Emma Zachary ’13 are participating in the NCCS Apprentice Teacher Training Program. Welcome back!

2013

In May, Luke Bazemore graduated magna cum laude from Middlebury College, with a major in Environmental Studies and Anthropology. Luke’s love of the mountains and nature has led him to the summits of Mt. Rainier, Mt. Hood, Pico de Orizaba, and numerous peaks and climbing sites around America, and to pursue solutions to climate change with respect for indigenous cultures. He’s excited to combine his studies and passions in his new role as a field science teaching assistant at The High Mountain Institute in Leadville, CO, where he also helps to lead wilderness expeditions.

Charlotte Zonis ’12

John Fox twice served as captain of University of Virginia’s lacrosse team, winning a second straight NCAA men’s lacrosse championship. John received the Henry Gaver Memorial Lacrosse Award given to that athlete who best exemplifies the qualities of leadership, cooperative spirit and unselfish service in the interest of athletics at the University of Virginia. 25

26 Harvard lacrosse player Kyle Salvatore was named a USILA Scholar All-American In June.

Luke ’13 and Lisa Bazemore

2014

Shea Delehaunty graduated from Union College with honors as one of three valedictorians out of 500+ graduates. She is now a teaching assistant at Tower School for the 2021–2022 academic year. 27 Christopher Jessup released his live piano performance at Merkin Hall in February 2020 of Mozart’s “Piano Concerto No. 19 in F Major, K. 459: III. Allegro assai” as a single on all streaming platforms.

28 Luke Leasure “A grand adventure on the Beyer East Face. Grateful for this return to big days in big mountains after a season away.”

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29 Sam Shafer’s incredible save in the final seconds of the game against seventhseeded Denver secured the 14–13 upset victory for Loyola Maryland in the NCAA lacrosse tournament.

30 Cal Stewart is studying history and broadcast journalism while also tending goal for the Syracuse University club hockey team.

Grey Zeigler continues to make and perform original music in and around Nashville, TN. Check it out on Spotify or iTunes. 29

Sam Shafer ’14 Photo credit: Jack Dempsey

Christopher ’15 and John Ziac stopped by campus in August to say hello.

2015

31 Phoebe and Elizabeth Casey completed the 2021 New York City Marathon, raising funds for numerous deserving charities. They trained while attending Colgate University.

32 Teddy Gartland graduated from the University of Michigan with a BSE in Mechanical Engineering. He interned over the summer at Tesla before returning to UMich to complete his master’s in Mechanical Engineering.

Cal Stewart ’14

Cayden Brodnax ’16, Kevin Barnard ’17, Tyler Rosolen ’20, Director of Facilities John Neill and Caroline Fouts helped deliver 4,000 gently used books collected by the NCCS community to Turning Pages, a local nonprofit, on July 23.

Avery York is at Wake Forest University majoring in Environment and Sustainability Studies and minoring in Bioethics, Humanities & Medicine and Psychology and is president of the only co-ed service a cappella group.

2017 31

At Berkshire School, Henry Alpaugh was a school prefect, co-head of Green Key, lacrosse co-captain, played two varsity sports, receiving most improved in squash and most improved and MVP in lacrosse. He was awarded the Prize for Excellence in Creative Writing and graduated with Departmental Distinction in Science. Henry is committed to playing lacrosse at the University of Richmond.

Phoebe and Elizabeth Casey ’15

Teddy ’15 and Michelle Gartland

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

Will Dale ’16 and Turner Ives ’16 are on the ice together once again, this time playing club hockey at the University of Virginia.

Class Notes

Austin Andersen ’17

Shane Baldwin ’17

Hayden Critchell ’17

33 Austin Andersen graduated from St. Luke’s School where he earned departmental distinctions in science, language and history, and was a member of the football team, serving as a captain for two years and winning the team’s Defensive Player of the Year Award twice. A two-time All-New England selection, he twice earned All-Evergreen League selections. He was also honored with the Thomas Football Award and received the Outstanding Male Senior Athlete Award. He is currently studying and playing football at Claremont McKenna.

34 Shane Baldwin graduated from Choate Rosemary Hall where he was a quarterback of the championship football team. Shane signed a letter of commitment and currently attends Colby College.

35 Hayden Critchell committed to playing lacrosse at Colby College. Hayden received a Heart of the Storm Award from St. Luke’s School. Hayden currently attends Colby College.

Henry Dale served as captain of the 2021 Brunswick ice hockey team. Ian Delehaunty finished his freshman year at Colby College and worked as a counselor at Tower School this summer.

Griffin Dewey ’17

Eloise Leclerc ’17

Desmond Pratt ’17

Drew Pyne ’17

36 University of Virginia sophomore Griffin Dewey was named to the 2020–2021 ACC Academic Honor Roll, is playing varsity squash and is majoring in Aerospace Engineering.

37 Eloise Leclerc graduated from St. Luke’s School where she was a captain of the varsity field hockey team, was selected as an All-Star in the Western New England Prep School Association and received a Heart of the Storm Award for Commitment & Effort. In addition, she received a World Language award, represented the school as an admissions ambassador/tour guide and completed 300+ hours of community service working with organizations including the Carver Center, the Tiny Miracles Foundation, and the Boys and Girls Club. She also started the Preemie Club at St. Luke’s and delivered over 200 care packages of preemie hats and clothes made by the SLS community to the Stamford Hospital NICU. Eloise plans to attend Wake Forest University this fall.

38 Desmond Pratt was a two-time captain and a three-time All-League selection while playing soccer and basketball at St. Luke’s School in 2020–2021. He also received an Honor Distinction in Computer Science and AP Statistics and Probability. He committed to St. Lawrence University (soccer).

39 Notre Dame sophomore QB Drew Pyne is already making a big impression, including touchdown passes in games against Wisconsin and Cincinnati in the fall.

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College Destinations

Class of 2018

Carter Alvord ��Bucknell University Jackson Alvord ��Colby College Dania Anabtawi ��Pomona College Sophie Bajaj ��Bucknell University Daly Baker �� Deerfield Academy ’22 Maya Becker �� University of California, Santa Cruz Cayla Bernstein ��Washington University Maizy Boosin �� Tulane University Alex Byrne ��Bowdoin College Amalia Calderini �� College of Charleston Christopher Calderwood ��Gap Year Charlotte Callison ��Clemson University Shane Carbin �� University of Vermont Lily Codd ��Williams College Sydney Coffield �� Duke University Kate Collier ��Brown University Owen Collins �� University of California, Irvine Grayson Connors �� Loyola Marymount University Arjun Dayal �� Cornell University Catherine Dewey ��Georgetown University Lydia Dormer ��Greens Farms Academy ’22 Sam Eglin �� University of Miami Grace English ��Bucknell University Sydney Essex �� University of Miami Abby Fonner �� Occidental College Luca Franzino ��Bates College Tyler Galante �� King School ’22 Riley Gibbons �� University of Richmond Ella Green �� University of Miami Meghan Griffiths ��University of Virginia Emma Herdeg ��Villanova University Anna Hernandez ��New York University Sam Ives ��University of North Carolina Chapel Hill Jack R. Johnson �� Hotchkiss School ’22 Jack T. Johnson �� Miami University Lucy Jones �� American University of Paris Henry Katis �� Purdue University Katherine Klein ��Clemson University James Kontulis ��Princeton University Emma LeBaron ��Wake Forest University Jennifer Llamas ��University of Pennsylvania Logan MacLear �� St. George’s School ’22 Audrey Magnusen ��Boston College Charlotte Mayer �� American University Madeleine McCarthy �� University of California, Santa Barbara Deyante McKinstry �� Pitzer College Cate McLeod �� University of California, San Diego Dillon Mims �� Columbia University

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

Cassidy Nash ��University of California, Los Angeles Phoebe Naylor �� Denison University Hannah Nightingale ��University of St Andrews, Scotland Leila Pearson �� American University Diego Pepe �� Tulane University Alice Purkiss �� Elon University Jeffery Ricciardelli �� University of Notre Dame Georgia Rivero ��University of Virginia Adam Rizvi �� Boston University Alexis Rodgers �� Colgate University Amrit Samra �� Boston University Jack Sanders ��Southern Methodist University Katherine Scarborough �� Phillips Academy Andover ’22 Janse Schoonmaker �� Tufts University Will Seiden �� Williston Northampton School ’22 Ryan Seth �� University of Richmond Meghan Sisk ��University of Pennsylvania Nina Stoops �� University of Denver Charlie Thompson ��Rollins College Teddy Truwit �� Duke University Jay van Dijkum �� University of Wisconsin Brian Villalta �� Columbia University Talbot von Stade ��University of Virginia Charlie von Stade �� University of Richmond Lauren Walsh ��College of Holy Cross Aaron Watkins �� Amherst College Elizabeth Woodberry �� King School ’22

Class of 2017

Henry Alpaugh �� University of Richmond Austin Andersen ��Claremont McKenna College Shane Baldwin ��Colby College Kevin Barnard �� St. Lawrence University Hayden Critchell ��Colby College James Hudson ��Bucknell University Eloise Leclerc ��Wake Forest University Taylor Mitchell �� Colgate University Desmond Pratt �� St. Lawrence University Emily Riccardi ��Boston College Carolina Salvatore �� University of Richmond Teddy Schoenholtz �� Trinity College Nicholas Sosnow �� College of Charleston Celia Sotirhos ��Georgetown University Nate Stevens �� St. Lawrence University Charlie Tait ��Boston College Teddy Zinn �� Elon University

Class Notes

JOIN US ON INSTAGRAM, FACEBOOK & TWITTER! @nccountryschool

Alex Byrne ’18 served as captain of the Berkshire School lacrosse team and is committed to attend Bowdoin College. 40

Dania Anabtawi ’18

2018

40 Dania Anabtawi performed on flute and piccolo in the Hopkins School orchestra and Norwalk Youth Symphony’s Principal Orchestra, most notably at Tanglewood, in 2019. Dania also founded and led the school’s Ethics Bowl team, competing in the 2020–2021 Connecticut Ethics Bowl competition. A Hopkins Senior Fellow, she mentored younger students, advocated for disability rights and awareness, and volunteered at Yale-New Haven Hospital in the Restorative Care Unit pre-pandemic. Dania plans to major in molecular biology on the pre-med track and minor in music while at Pomona College.

41 Shane Carbin was inducted into the St. Luke’s School chapter of the Cum Laude Society prior to graduation. Shane distinguished himself academically during his three-year tenure, receiving the school’s Math Department Award as a 10th grader and again as an 11th grader. Shane also received the DesignLab Department Award. Shane was a member of the varsity crosscountry team and participated in visual arts, community service and as a theater tech on several of St. Luke’s highly acclaimed theatrical productions. Shane currently attends University of Vermont.

42 Sydney Coffield was a member and co-captain of the Rye Country Day School Cedar Street Dancers. She also received the school’s Dance Award at graduation. Sydney currently attends Duke University.

Sydney Coffield ’18

Arjun Dayal ’18

Shane Carbin ’18

43 Congrats to social entrepreneur and recent Hackley School graduate Arjun Dayal who three years ago founded KidsCode to enable STEM education in underprivileged communities including East Harlem (working with the nonprofit Union Settlement) and Athens, Greece (working with the nonprofit El Sistema), to deliver computer coding classes to orphaned youth and child refugees of war. During the pandemic, Arjun used his CAD and 3D printing skills to supply over 2,700 face shields to healthcare workers and hospitals across the county. At Hackley, Arjun was a member of the varsity swim team, co-founded a ping-pong club and was a student ambassador. During two summers, he interned at Columbia University’s Biomaterials and Interface Tissue Engineering Laboratory, where he worked on evaluating previously engineered tissue grafts in a mimic human environment. He also co-authored a paper presented at ORS 2020. Arjun attends Cornell University’s College of Engineering where he studies biomedical engineering.

Luca Franzino was honored by the Rye Country Day School athletic department for his contributions to the four varsity sports in which he participated: soccer (captain), golf (NYSIAS winner), wrestling (NYSIAS winner), and cross-country. Luca also mentored middle school students and was active in visual arts, as an admission tour guide and as a volunteer in a community service project, maintaining trails and building split rail fences in the Mianus River Park. Luca currently attends Bates College.

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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.

Ella Green ’18

Louisa, Sam Ives ’18 and Colin Ives ’81

44 Ella Green was a four-year honor student at Millbrook School where she received an award for Academic Effort. She participated in community projects and played on the school’s field hockey and lacrosse teams. Following study at the American University in Paris, Ella will attend Miami University.

Emma Herdeg graduated with academic distinction from St. Luke’s School, where she pursued a passion for music, singing (in the school chorus as well as in an a capella group), and dance. Emma received Departmental Distinctions in World Languages (Mandarin), music and chorus — for which she also was presented a Director’s Award. A daughter of Fell and Cara Burnham Herdeg ’86, she now attends Villanova University.

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

Team captain Jack T. Johnson ’18 scored a hat trick in the final game to clinch New Canaan High School’s 2020–2021 second consecutive FCIAC Championship win.

Jack R. Johnson ’18

Lucy Jones ’18

45 New Canaan High School golf co-captain Sam Ives was named First Team All-FCIAC, following his team’s FCIAC championship win. Sam was also a captain of the varsity hockey team which claimed its second consecutive FCIAC championship earlier in the year. A son of Louisa and Colin Ives ’81, the four-year honor roll student now attends UNC Chapel Hill.

46 Jack R. Johnson was awarded the Thomas W. Armitage Prize for character, scholarship and involvement in the life of the school and for contributing to the Hotchkiss community.

Lucy Jones graduated magna cum laude from Westminster School. During her three-year tenure, Lucy participated in the yearbook, the literary magazine and the school newspaper, and played varsity field hockey. She now attends American University in Paris. 47

48 Hannah Nightingale ’18, Cassidy Nash ’18, Mikaela Ortolana, and Katherine Klein ’18

48 Congratulations to Katherine Klein and Hannah Nightingale, who graduated summa cum laude from Brien McMahon High School, where both were inducted into the National Honor Society, which “serves to recognize those students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of scholarship, service, leadership and character.”

Class Notes They also participated in and held leadership positions in the Serendipity Club, a community service organization, raising funds and awareness for a variety of environmental causes. Additionally, Hannah served as a student representative on the school disciplinary committee, participated in sports at the varsity level and received the Wesleyan College Book Prize, while Katherine was active in visual arts, performing arts and played varsity lacrosse. Katherine attends Clemson University and Hannah attends University of St Andrews (Scotland) 49 James Kontulis is playing varsity squash and acclimating well as a freshman at Princeton. While at St. Luke’s School, he was a two-time All-Fairchester Athletic Association honoree and a two-time All-New England Preparatory School Athletic Council honoree. A two-time team captain and two-time winner of the team’s Heart of the Storm Award, he also received the school’s Storm Award for contributions to the school community. He played at No. 1 for all three seasons of squash competition, and played two seasons of football, earning the team’s Character Award.

50 Jennifer Llamas graduated from Greens Farms Academy with academic distinction and was inducted into their chapter of the Cum Laude Society. Jennifer participated in activities for community betterment, volunteered with nonprofit organizations, and organized peaceful civil protests, including one in honor of George Floyd and Black Lives Matter in downtown Stamford that drew over 200 children and families and received coverage by the local media. Jennifer played varsity soccer and ran on the varsity track and field team, receiving the Most Improved Award in both. Additionally, on June 12, she was presented the Jackie Roberson Valedictorian Award by Horizons. 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. Jennifer currently attends the University of Pennsylvania. For more, see page 48.

51 Audrey Magnusen graduated from St. Luke’s School where she received recognition for academics, athletics, leadership and strength of character.

James Kontulis ’18

Audrey Magnusen ’18

Deyante McKinstry ’18

Dillon Mims ’18

50 Jennifer Llamas ’18 on right leading a peaceful protest in Stamford.

Audrey was the captain of the varsity soccer and tennis teams, earned FAA All-League honors (soccer) and received a Heart of the Storm Award (tennis), and a Peter Stratton Memorial Award for “outstanding humanitarianism, team spirit, companionship, and contributions to the St. Luke’s Community.” Audrey currently attends Boston College. 52 Deyante McKinstry, following graduation from Choate Rosemary Hall, writes, “I won a graduation prize! Flora Macdonald Bonney and Owen Morgan Prize to a sixth form student who has displayed great empathy and unselfish dedication to helping others within the school community.” Deyante currently attends Pitzer College.

53 Dillon Mims graduated from Phillips Academy Exeter where he distinguished himself academically particularly in the history department, receiving the Harkness Award in History, the Hoar Prize for Academy Achievement in History, the Negley Prize for Best American History term paper (which has since been published), and the Class of ’55 Book Essay Contest (also published).

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Cassidy Nash ’18

He also created a six-episode podcast, Precedented Times, as part of a senior project. The podcast aims to debunk the notion that we are living through events without historical precedence. In addition to being an honors student during his three-year tenure, Dillon participated in community service and drama, and represented the academy as an admission tour guide. He also held a leadership position on the staff of the student newspaper. Dillon currently attends Columbia University. 54 Brien McMahon High School studentathlete Cassidy Nash was honored June 11 as a 12-season “multi-sport Career Athlete admired and respected by her teammates, coaches and the school’s athletic organization for sportsmanship, character, dedication, leadership and for being a role model.” A soccer player, she also ran track and field, frequently competing in FCIAC Championships. A four-year honor student, Cassidy held positions of leadership in the school’s community service organization, The Serendipity Club, and the student newspaper. Cassidy Nash attends UCLA.

55 Leila Pearson graduated from St. Luke’s School where she was particularly active in the performing arts. A member of several highly acclaimed theatrical productions during her four-year tenure, including Admissions, Leila received a St. Luke’s Theater Distinction Award and several Connecticut HALO Awards (regional and statewide honors), including Best Contemporary Play Award and Fearless Award as well as HALO Nominations for Best Leading Actress in a Contemporary Play and Best Female Comedic Role. In addition to her theatrical endeavors, she pursued a passion for dance, politics and

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

Leila Pearson ’18 57

Meghan Sisk ’18

Talbot von Stade ’18

Georgia Rivero ’18

current events. Leila represented the school as an admission tour guide and volunteered at various school events, as well as within the larger community. Leila attends American University. 56 Georgia Rivero graduated cum laude from the Hopkins School where she was a tour guide, on the Admissions Council, a physics and English tutor and a Senior Mentor for younger students. She received the Rensselaer Medal in 2020 and is majoring in biology while at University of Virginia.

57 Brien McMahon High School studentathlete Meghan Sisk was named a 2021 Girls’ Lacrosse Academic All-American. Meghan, a two-sport athlete, was also named an FCIAC Exemplary Scholar-Athlete in October 2020 and was a captain of both the varsity volleyball and lacrosse teams. The four-year honor roll student is pursuing a business degree while attending the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business.

Brian Villalta graduated from Rye Country Day School with high honors and academic distinction. Brian held a leadership position on the school’s Student Activities Board, played varsity soccer, represented the school as an admission tour guide, participated in community service, played a solo instrument and was also in the school band. Additionally, on June 12, he was presented the Leah Kimmet Spirit Award by Horizons recognizing a graduating high school senior for their outstanding kindness, enthusiasm and dedication to others. Brian attends Columbia University For more, see page 48. 58 Talbot von Stade graduated cum laude from Deerfield Academy. A four-year high honors student, Talbot received the school’s Pan-American Society Award for “Excellence and the highest achievement in the study of Spanish” as well as academic recognition by the National Youth Leadership Forum

Class Notes of Medicine. She was a nominee for the Morehead-Cain Scholarship and a Jefferson Scholarship Regional Finalist. The captain of the varsity field hockey team, she also played varsity squash and lacrosse. She received the Coaches Award (lacrosse) for sportsmanship, leadership and strength of character, and was named a New England All-Star (field hockey). Additionally, she was selected as a dorm proctor for freshmen residential students, worked on the yearbook staff, was an admissions tour guide and the peer tutoring Program Head. Talbot attends the University of Virginia.

59 Aaron Watkins graduated from Phillips Academy Andover where he participated on the Drumline, represented the academy as an admissions tour guide, and volunteered at the SHED Children’s Campus working with K–5 students from the town of Andover. Having completed his requirements for graduation ahead of schedule, he spent the spring semester devoted to an interdisciplinary study of democracy and dissent. Aaron majors in law, jurisprudence and social thought at Amherst College.

O Captain! My Captain! 1

Elizabeth Dale ’19 (center), served as captain of Greenwich Academy’s field hockey team, finishing the regular season 8–2.

Ava Gizzie ’20 (top center), served as captain of Choate’s varsity soccer team (as a junior) this past fall. Joined by sister Lila ’21 on the team, they finished their regular season 12–3–0 and then went on to be named WWNEPSSA Class A Champions (out of 45 teams) in post-season play.

Meghan Halloran ’13 (right) has been named captain of the Williams College women’s ice hockey team where she is joined by teammate Christina Halloran ’16 (left).

Kyle Latimer ’19 (center) served as captain of Darien High School’s varsity field hockey team, winning the team’s fourth consecutive FCIAC championship 1–0.

Layla Magnusen ’19 (left) served as captain of the St. Luke’s varsity soccer team that clinched the Fairchester Athletic Association (FAA) regular season title.

Byrne Matthews ’19, Beau Johnson ’20 and Carter Spain ’19 will serve as captains of New Canaan High School’s 2021–2022 ice hockey team. They take the helm from 2020–2021 captain Sam Ives ’18 and hope to secure the team’s third consecutive FCIAC championship.

Amanda Miller ’19 (left), captain of Berkshire School’s field hockey team, met up with Bennett Ghriskey ’19 (right), captain of Westminster School’s team, in postseason play following Westminster’s 2021 Founders League Championship win.

Thomas Ricciardelli ’19 will serve as a captain of the Taft ice hockey team this winter.

Aaron Watkins ’18

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Congratulations! The following alumni have committed (as of publication) to further their athletic and educational careers at the collegiate level: 1

Lily Codd ’18 Willams College (swimming) Mary Duffy ’19 Stanford University (squash) Will Erdmann ’20 University of Virginia (lacrosse) Charlie Gosk ’19 Northeastern University (crew) Mimi Novak ’20 Bucknell University (lacrosse) Thomas Ricciardelli ’19 Notre Dame University (lacrosse) Teddy Truwit ’18 Duke University (tennis)

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

2019

60 Jack DeGulis had some fun while taking home the championship in a school-wide pickleball tournament at Berkshire School.

61 Original poetry by Greens Farms Academy senior Menna Delva was selected for inclusion in the 2021 Storm King Spring Arts Festival. Her work, titled “Her Lullaby,” was included in the festival’s virtual program, in which the poem was read aloud. It was also published in the Festival Anthology. In addition, Menna sings in the GFA Concert Choir, plays guard on the varsity basketball team (earning Varsity Letter and Varsity Sweater honors at the 2020–2021

Jack DeGulis ’19 (right)

Menna Delva ’19

Class Notes

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.

Winter Sports Awards Banquet), plays varsity softball and is on the staff of the Penumbra, a published collection of student creative work. She also mentors middle school students on managing stress and is dedicated to wellness and mental health advocacy. 62 Congratulations to Lindsay Ferretti. Darien’s Troop 219 has its very first female Eagle Scout!

Amanda Miller, while a senior at Berkshire School, played varsity field hockey (receiving the Ellis Trophy for sportsmanship and spirit) and varsity squash (placing second in the New England Class C tournament and third at Nationals in Division IV, and earning individual All-NESPAC honors); and varsity lacrosse (receiving the Berkshire Girls’ Lacrosse Bowl for spirit).

Will Warner ’19

Lindsay Ferretti ’19

63 Will Warner now has two singles out on Spotify and iTunes: Resonation and A Letter Back Home. Will was named an AP Scholar by Westminster School for scoring 3 or higher on three or more AP exams.

(above) The Class of 2019 at this year’s Thanksgiving Young Alumni Reunion. (below) The Class of 2020 at the Thanksgiving Reunion.

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2020

Ben Herdeg was honored for excellence in photography and Spanish for the fall semester at Hotchkiss School. 64 Beau Johnson goes low for one of his 31 saves during the New Canaan Rams’ 2–1 OT victory against Darien in the FCIAC boys ice hockey semis. He has been named a captain of the 2021–2022 team.

2021

Beau Johnson ’20

Wilder Judelson ’21

65 John Bajaj was one of only three Loomis Chaffee School freshmen to dress for the NEPSAC Football Championship Nov. 20, which they won, beating Milton Academy 21–3 in the Todd Marble Bowl.

66 Hunter Griggs received his pilot’s license and played varsity football this fall at Kent School.

67 Wilder Judelson is pursuing his passion for soccer playing for the Orlando City youth developmental team.

The Class of 2021 at this year’s Thanksgiving Young Alumni Reunion

68 Wave Walters joined Jon Anderson of Yes onstage for two weeks of tour dates around the U.S. as a member of Paul Green Rock Academy this past summer, and continues to play guitar.

2022

69 Oliver Johnson was a member of the 2021 Founders League championship cross-country team at Hotchkiss. 65

Arvind, John ’21, Sheila and Sophie ’18 Bajaj

Wave Walters ’21

Hunter Griggs ’21

Oliver Johnson ’22

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.

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

SUBMIT A NOTICE

Milestones

on the website or contact Director of Alumni Affairs Holly Donaldson Casella ’04 directly at hcasella@countryschool.net or (203) 801-5687 with your news item.

Join us in celebrating and honoring members of the Country School community, past and present.

All milestones received after we go to print will be included in the next

Our Congratulations

edition of the Bulletin, scheduled for fall 2022.

MARRIAGES

Kyle to Early Childhood Assistant

Former Apprentice Teacher

Teacher Daley O’Herron Avery ’05

Whitney Powel to Andy Holmes

April 2021

July 10, 2021

June 26, 2021

Joy to Jeff Peters ’80

Kaela Diomede ’07 to Adam Wetzel

Assistant to Head of Middle School;

Sept. 5, 2020

Assistant Director, Secondary School

Alumni Jerry Bremer ’56 to Mimi Fleury

Oct. 17, 2021

Counseling Brenda (Friedman) Siegel to Gary Siegel

Carter Jensen ’05 to Kelsey Sher

Faculty and Staff

June 26, 2021

Hilda Frimpong to former

Aug. 22, 2021

Data Administrator & Systems Engineer Welby Obeng Aug. 14, 2021

BIRTHS Asher Samuel Traub Prosnit

Wyatt Reid Smith

Tucker Macpherson Horn

Margaret “Daisy” Wolfe

Arielle Traub ’00 and

Colin and Alexa Reid Smith ’04

Stoddard and Physical

Connorton

Ethan Prosnit

Jan. 27, 2021

Education Teacher

Whitney Wolfe ’93 and

June 11, 2021

Alumni

Meegan Horn Violet Quill Henderson

John V. Connorton III

June 5, 2021

Roslyn Thomas Reed V

Julia Maguire ’05 and

Thomas Reed ’01 and

Lucas Henerson

Hayden Avery Khuen

Harlow Budnick

Brooke Cavanaugh Reed ’01

April 4, 2021

Marielle and Upper school

Ashley and

March 24, 2021

January 2021

Russell Budnick ’98

Theodore Knight Clifford

English and History Teacher;

Faculty and Staff

Advisor; Coach; Grade Level

Nathalie Luna Barrera

Dean Charles Khuen

Scott and

Marianna and FLIK Dining

July 17, 2021

Finnegan David Ludwig

Chelsea Laverack Clifford ’03 April 25, 2021

Services Chef William Barrera

Jeff and

Dec. 7, 2020

Katie Stoller Ludwig ’99 May 2021 Eulalie Reed George Jamali

Aug. 10, 2021

Gemma June Tyson Jessica and Performing Arts

Georgina Hoehn Downer

Callie Anne Gifford

Teacher Andy Tyson

Jo and Nick Downer ’03

Jess and Database Manager

Oct. 20, 2021

Jan. 3, 2021

Jen Gifford

Alexandra Jamali ’00 and

Sept. 29, 2021

L. Reed

Milo Ashton Parkes

Aug. 21, 2021

Caroline Downer ’04 and Drew Parkes June 3, 2021 discover more countryschool.net

Faculty & Staff News Former Middle School Apprentice Teacher Stephen Quinn is now working in Dubai, teaching Grades 7 and 8. Former Upper School Visual Arts Teacher Lynn Donahue is staying active in the community and volunteering regularly at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church of New Canaan. Former Director of Community Development Lynn Sullivan was promoted to Associate Dean for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Yale Divinity School, April 19.

HAVE NEWS TO SHARE? To provide faculty and staff news and updates, please contact communications@countryschool.net

New Kid, from award-winning author-illustrator Jerry Craft (NCCS parent of Jaylen ’13 and Aren ’15), was selected

▲ Current and former Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Liaisons who reunited over dinner June 14 included (front row from left to right): Grade 2 Teacher Abigail Manny Newport ’89, former Upper School World Language Teacher Hannah Liu, Former Digital Marketing Manager Moina Noor and Beginners 4/5 Teacher Carin Walden; (back row from left to right): Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Kojo Clarke, Kindergarten Teacher Jessica McKinney, Grade 6 Teacher Brayden Henry, Grade 5 Teacher Andrew Bevan and Horizons Family and Program Director Nehemie Moise.

for the NCCS Faculty & Staff Community Book Read and was a featured element in ongoing professional development. Craft joined faculty and staff during a series of workshops that focused on improving the school’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion initiatives. He answered questions and provided insight into his family’s experience. In addition, son Jaylen joined him for the event. New Kid, the winner of the Coretta Scott King and Kirkus awards, and the first graphic novel to win the Newberry Medal, follows the experience of a student of color as he navigates a new school and finds himself in the minority, culturally. Craft is also the author and artist of Class Act, the second novel in the trilogy.

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

▸ Former Grade 5 Teacher Suzy

Sensbach writes: “I’m working as Youth and Recreation Director at a private club. I am enjoying all that Montana has to offer: rafting, kayaking, camping, biking and more! I was lucky to have two NCCS visitors this past summer. [Middle School Learning Resource Teacher] Dana Brooks, passed through with her children in July and in August. [LS World Language Teacher] Sean Robb was in town and we were able to spend a day together hiking and eating BBQ! If anyone is in Big Sky, be sure to look me up!”

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.

Nancy von Euler Honored with Horizons Leadership Award Horizons National named Nancy von

she said. “Nancy’s leadership and ability to pivot and be

Euler, Executive Director of Horizons at

responsive amid the COVID crisis allowed for an extremely well-

NCCS, one of three winners of the annual

attended and successful remote summer program for Horizons

Horizons Leadership Award. The award

students. Her understanding of how hard communities were

honors a Horizons executive director or

hit by COVID inspired her to provide the best summer program

site director who contributes both on a

possible, keeping in mind safety, costs and staff limitations. By

local and national level, embodying the

diverting funds that would be spent in the cafeteria to grocery

spirit of the Horizons mission.

gift cards, Horizons families received support to provide some

In her nomination, Horizons Board Chair Sanny Burnham Warner ’88 cited specific examples of

of the meals that the program normally provides each summer. “Nancy’s inspired vision for the program has benefited

von Euler’s leadership that helped the program navigate the

families through increased programming, financial support and

recent challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

growth in the number of students served. Nancy has provided

“Nancy is in her fourth year as the ED of Horizons at NCCS

guidance and clear goals for her year-round staff and summer

and has provided experience, expertise and enthusiasm that

teachers. Her collaboration with the administration of NCCS

would be expected of someone who has been with the program

has garnered her respect from the school community. Believing

for decades. Her leadership has resulted in a successful

that we are stronger together, Nancy places a high value on

fundraising program, a thorough strategic plan, inspirational

collaboration and partnership with the Horizons National

speeches, and endless love and passion for Horizons students,”

network of programs and within our local communities.”

▲ Marianna and FLIK Dining Services Chef William Barrera welcomed daughter, Nathalie Luna Barrera, Aug. 10.

▲ Stoddard and Physical Education Teacher Meegan Horn welcomed a son, Tucker Macpherson Horn, June 5.

▲ Jess and Database Manager Jen Gifford welcomed a daughter, Callie Anne Gifford, Sept. 29.

▲ Assistant to Head of Middle School; Assistant Director, Secondary School Counseling Brenda (Friedman) Siegel and Gary Siegel were married on Aug. 22.

▲ Former Apprentice Teacher Whitney Powel married Andy Holmes June 26 at the Chicago Club in Charlevoix, MI, where they had spent many childhood summers as friends. The couple resides in Dallas.

▲ Marielle and Upper School English and History Teacher; Advisor; Coach; Grade Level Dean Charles Khuen welcomed a girl, Hayden July 21.

▲ Former Apprentice Annie Upton Henry was among the current and former NCCS faculty and staff who returned to campus in July to help make the 57th Horizons at New Canaan Country School Summer Program a success. For more, please see page 50.

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Farewell to Our Dear Colleagues Tom Giggi Upper School English and History Teacher, Advisor, Coach When going to a baseball game,

Ryan ’07 and Tyler ’09. In a circular event that is more common than you may think, Ryan was an NCCS Apprentice and, while here, met another Apprentice named Jeannette Leapold to whom he is now married. On campus, you could find Tom on the football and baseball

always get there early. If you enter

fields, on the basketball court, singing in the faculty chorus,

the stadium the moment they open

leading the ninth graders as they hosted the Frogtown Fair

the gates several hours before

midway, performing a rousing rendition of “Who’s on First?”

the first pitch, in addition to the

with former faculty member Al Perry, and in his classroom

immaculate grass and dirt and the wide open spaces filled with

helping students become better writers, more incisive readers

possibility, you see purposeful preparation in action. Players

and more astute students of history.

running, hitting, throwing and catching in established rhythms

Throughout the years, Tom has spent summers as a leader-

and understated focus, energy slowly growing as the stadium

ship director and assistant camp director at Camp Belknap in

fills and first pitch approaches. That is also how Tom Giggi’s

Wolfeboro, NH, and now, Tom and Elaine will also be spending

classroom feels early in the morning. Tom is always one of the

winters in their home in New Hampshire. We wish them all the

first people on campus, quietly sitting at his desk in his immacu-

best and know that the Upper School will not feel quite the

late room, walls adorned with Boston Red Sox paraphernalia,

same without Tom there every morning preparing for class

reading whatever classic his class is studying, preparing for his

every day just as he always has.

students. The order and understatedness of his room belie the focus, passion and spark that Tom brings out in his students, as anyone who has sat in his classroom knows. Tom employs similar tenets in the classroom and on the playing field that get the most from his students. He gets to know his students/players and their areas of strength. He methodically prepares to place students in positions to bring the best out of them. As he teaches and coaches, he always explains the why in addition to the what. He might show an offensive lineman why it is preferable to move his feet in a certain set of steps, or why an argument can be more persuasive in an essay if it is structured in a specific manner. Then he lets his students perform. As a colleague recently commented, Tom “explains the context, works to find strengths and affinities, and then asks kids to lead.” His leadership is very much in service to students’ growth. Tom has been an English and history teacher in our Upper School since 1981. During those 40 years, he has also been the History Department Chair, English Department Chair, as well as an advisor and coach of baseball, soccer, football and basketball teams. He was also a faculty representative to the Board of Trustees in 1995–1996 and was even acting Head of the Upper School from 2000 to 2001. He has led all manner of Upper School trips, including the Civil Rights trip upon which he has had great impact. In fact, Tom has had a hand in developing every aspect of our notable Upper School humanities curriculum and has been a guiding force in the division. In the fall of 1981, when Tom arrived as a new Upper School teacher, there was also a new math teacher named Elaine, to whom he is now married. They are the proud parents of,

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

A tree has been planted in honor of Tom Giggi’s dedicated 40 years of service to Country School. It is planted at the corner of the Stevens Building, directly between his former classroom window and the home he and his family shared on Frogtown Road, across the street.

Faculty & Staff News At NCCS, teaching is much more than a vocation; it is a passion and, for some, a life’s work. On May 14, 2022, at the Frogtown Fair, we will be celebrating three such educators: Tom Giggi and Raphe Elkind who retired in June, 2021, and also Fraser Randolph, who stepped out of his Grade 6 classroom to teach part-time during the 2021–2022 academic year.

Raphe Elkind Grade 5 Teacher

throughout the year, extending student thinking about and

One of the great NCCS traditions is

tions to Raphe). Raphe also lives civics in action — he once

announcements at Wednesday lunch

took a class to Hartford to present environmental speeches

for faculty and staff. One only needs

in support of clean car legislation. On top of all that, he

to attend a single such lunch to know

has been a tremendous mentor to decades of apprentice

Raphe Elkind. Whether giving an

teachers, many of whom have gone on to fruitful teaching

impassioned ask for the annual fund,

careers themselves.

educating us to a cause in which he

love of their reading (and offering good new book sugges-

Raphe has been a mainstay of our middle school as a fifth

is involved, sharing his perspective on school events, or simply

grade teacher for the past 28 years. In addition, he has taught

letting everyone know when and where his wife, Lissy, will be

yoga, coached baseball and basketball, sung in the Faculty

singing with a jazz ensemble in Westport that week, Raphe’s

Chorus and performed with the orchestra, worn his famous

is a regular and meaningful voice within the faculty and staff.

orange bathrobe to the dunk tank at the Frogtown Fair, and

Warm, reflective, honest and passionate, he leads with his

chaperoned hiking trips to Devil’s Den and overnight trips to

heart and his caring for others. He brings those same quali-

Camp Becket. He also served as a faculty representative to

ties to his classroom as he encourages the development of his

the Board of Trustees from 2011 to 2013. Raphe and Lissy’s

students’ voices in their writing, their analysis of literature,

sons, Peter ’11 and Henry ’14, both attended NCCS.

and their expression of perspectives, opinions and interests.

As much as he has meant to his fifth grade students during

He wants students to know their communities, know their

the school year, Raphe has similarly dedicated himself to

passions and to get involved in the issues that compel them.

our Horizons program. Over the past three decades, he has

Raphe’s classroom is alive with learning. Games, puzzles

taught in classrooms, contributed to special events, and

and trinkets abound on the shelves, and students regularly

been a regular and transformational supporter of Horizons,

solve the day’s “Braingles.” Nearly every morning, Raphe and

bringing his voice and passion to students in the summer just

his students discuss current events and their implications. An

as he does his fifth graders during the school year.

avid reader of young adult literature, he is a firm believer in

Raphe will most certainly be missed in the Middle School,

the importance of reading. Raphe is known for his years of

around campus, at the low end of the faculty chorus, at

letter exchanges with his students about their independent

faculty/staff lunches and by the many people upon whose

reading; these composition journals went back and forth

lives he has had such a tremendous and lasting impact.

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Farewell to Our Dear Colleagues, continued

Susan Chiavarioli has been a

Paul Nye served as Country School’s

welcoming presence on campus for the

Controller and Human Resources Coordinator

past 20 years, most recently in the Grace

for 13 years. Throughout his years here, he

House as a receptionist and dismissal

impacted our financial and environmental

coordinator. Previously, she assisted in the Kindergarten, Upper and Lower School

sustainability through his stewardship and management. Paul says he was immediately

libraries, and during the summer supported our Horizons

smitten with the idea that he could bring his dog to work. In order

program in various capacities, including driving a blue mini-

to ensure that Country School would preserve its animal-friendly

bus filled with eager young student swimmers to neigh-

culture, Paul earmarked a financial donation to the school that

borhood pools. Susan’s son, John, is also a former NCCS

would cover any costs associated with dog-walking on-campus.

Apprentice Teacher.

Paul and Hadley, his soft-coated Wheaten Terrier, have been staples on campus during their early morning and midday walks.

John Hastings was a dedicated Grade 4 Teacher for the past 17 years.

Melissa Ryan-Knowlton was the

Additionally, he served as a Lead Grade 3

Athletic Trainer for our student-athletes for

Teacher in the Horizons program for 15

nine years. During this past year, she also

summers. John brought his prior profes-

served as a valued member of our Health &

sional experience in drama to Country School,

Wellness Team, assisting with COVID compli-

working with the fourth grade Greek and Mummers plays

ance protocols and contract tracing. Present at

and teaching drama after school and in the summers.

every Middle and Upper School practice and game (and Lower

John’s extensive necktie collection hand-drawn by his

School recesses as well), Melissa has ensured sport safety and

former students and his regular involvement at events

appropriate medical supervision for all of our athletes. Melissa

throughout the school — such as the dunk tank at the

and her family are returning to Massachusetts this summer.

Frogtown Fair — demonstrate the care he has for NCCS. John is moving on to focus on working with children on their social-emotional well-being and mental health.

Moina Noor served as Country School’s Digital Communications Manager for eight

Will McDonough wore many hats during his 13-year tenure at Country School, including Upper School English and History Teacher, Advisor, Grade 6–9 Social Studies Program Coordinator, Coach, Life Skills Teacher, and Director of Service Learning. Will has been an active presenter at profes-

years. During this time, she has been one of the school’s chief storytellers in pictures, videos and images sharing news from across campus on our website, social media channels, newsletters and emails. A champion for diversity, equity and inclusion in all forms, Moina has been a member of the school’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion faculty and staff facilitator group since it began in 2018. Moina is also the parent of Salman Memon ’23.

sional conferences including the National Association of Independent Schools and the Association for Middle Level Education. He has also self-published two books,

Lisa Schultz helped countless students

The Things We Shared in the Time We Had: A Letter to My

successfully transition beyond Country

Students and Pause Together: A Handbook for Humans.

School as the Director of Secondary School

Will, his wife Nicole, and their three children, Naomi ’26, Jonah ’27 and Gideon ’29 will move to the eastern part of the state as Will takes on a leadership role at the Country School in Madison, CT.

Counseling for the past seven years. A parent of Katherine ’08 and Reed ’11, Lisa brought to the position a well-honed understanding of the Country School journey. Her approach has always been to develop a relationship with each student, to recognize the entirety of each child, and to help match the student with the best secondary school fit so that the child will thrive. A passionate and longtime supporter of Horizons and similar programs, Lisa will continue to work with underserved populations in her work after NCCS.

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

Faculty & Staff News

Chantal Angelis served as Physical Education Program Coordinator, Physical Education Teacher and Coach for the past seven years. An athlete herself, Chantal brought to NCCS a passion for helping students develop a lifelong enjoyment of physical activity and a healthy attitude toward athletic competition. Notably, she created Dribblers, an NCCS afterschool program dedicated to building athletic confidence in second and third grade girls, in the hope that they would then persist in ball sports. As she leaves to spend more time at home with her young family, we know Chantal will stay involved at NCCS as a parent to Miles ’30.

Matt McDonald arrived at Country School in 2015 as a Grade 5 Apprentice Teacher with a passion for math and sports, and now, six years later, departs as Upper School Math Teacher, Varsity Boys’ Ice Hockey Coach, Advisor and Grade 6–9 Math Program Coordinator. A talented athlete himself, Matt has also coached Upper School soccer and lacrosse. Matt is moving to Massachusetts to teach, coach and lead the math department at the Fay School.

Welcome to Our New Colleagues

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Tori Bartlett, Grade 3 Apprentice

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Brooke Arthur, Director of Strategy and Communications

Will Bass, Grade 6 Apprentice Hailey Biagi, Grade 4 Apprentice Lauren Catalano, Grade 1 Apprentice Kelly Cattano, Kindergarten Apprentice Monae Cherry, Grade 2 Apprentice Cherie Corchard, Physical Education Teacher; Coach Kendall Cornine, PE Apprentice JoAnn Corsillo, Controller Gaetana Deiso, Athletic Trainer; Health Office Assistant Samantha “Sam” Gault, Part-time Upper School English Teacher; Advisor Tate Given, Grade 3 Apprentice Clay Kontulis ’12, Grade 5 Apprentice Sara Krusekopf, Upper School Math Teacher; Advisor, Coach Brian Muller, Grades 3–9 Associate Music Teacher Allison Smith ’98, Grade 3 Apprentice Jayne Tully, Grade 6 Apprentice Fay Venetsanos, Grade 5 Teacher Emma Zachary ’13, Grade 2 Apprentice

Also joining us or taking on new responsibilities are:

Debbie Colon welcomed visitors to campus for the past two years as a school receptionist. Warm and gregarious, Debbie is well known for connecting people to one another, helping lost items find their owners, and for offering positive affirmations to all who pass by her centrally located perch in the telephone office. Her quick smile and infectious laugh have been a bright spot in everyone’s day.

We also say farewell and offer our thanks to Upper School Leave Replacement Substitute Teacher Richard Conley, Upper School Long-Term Substitute Science Teacher Jennifer Corcoran, Upper School Long-Term Substitute Teacher Geneive DeBono, Plus Program Assistant Rebecca Freitas, Grade 1 Teacher, Maintenance Assistant Elder Gomez, Grade 1 Teacher Katie Henkel, Plus Program Assistant Lynnet Karamanian, Beginners 4/5 Teacher Emily Schoonmaker, Grade Level Assistant and Plus Program Assistant Jane Zech, and to the following Apprentices: Lindsey Bemis, Isa Dumoulin, Rebecca Evensen, Ann Abbott Freeman, Kait Harden, Liesl Hennig, Madeleine Ker ’10, Remi Klein, Katie Lashendock, Morgan Lowry, Kate MacNutt, Will Shaw and Emma Pippert.

Caroline Aronowitz, Grade 5 Apprentice Renee Bornstein, Communications Support Manager, Receptionist Christy Bottomley, Grade 1 Associate Teacher Holly Donaldson Casella ’04, Director of Major Gifts & Alumni Affairs Shannon Faella, Grade 4 Teacher Kent Findlay ’80, Assistant Director of Marketing & Communications Tom Hogenkamp, Upper School English and History Teacher Kristin Keneally, Kindergarten Apprentice Isadora Machado, Visual Arts Teacher, Plus Program Assistant Olivia Mao, Grade 4 Apprentice Mark Macrides, Director of Community Engagement, Visual Arts Program Director John Neill, Director of Operations Kat Norton ’12, Grade 5 Apprentice Welby Obeng, Part-Time Data Administrator & Systems Engineer Fraser Randolph, Visual Arts Teacher Winter Quisgard, Grade 1 Associate Teacher Hartel Smith, Grade 6 Apprentice Kathy Steinman, Director of Institutional Research Carin Walden, Beginners 4/5 Teacher discover more countryschool.net

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 directly at hcasella@countryschool.net or (203) 801-5687.

Alumni

Thomas McLane ’46 died Sept. 10,

Courtenay “Court” Haight ’49,

2021, following a slow decline due to a number of underlying conditions. Following Country School, Tom attended St. George’s (Newport, RI), then Warwick College (UK) for a PG year while deferring admission to Yale. He was very involved at Yale with rugby, St. Anthony’s, college hockey, the Glee Club, and his beloved Whiffenpoofs. In 1978, he embarked upon a 20-year career with Russell Reynolds Associates. Upon “retirement” he joined the Directorship Group (later RSR Partners), where he was vice chair until he retired again, in 2012. Over the past 50 years while a resident of New Canaan, Tom served on the town Finance Committee and helped to launch the New Canaan Inn, later serving as vice president. He was past president of the New Canaan Community Foundation and vice president of the United Way. He was a Country School trustee (2006–2009). He loved the Men’s Club and his book club. He was highly engaged with St. Mark’s Church and enjoyed his friends at the Country Club of New Canaan (where he had served as governor). He enjoyed sailing his 38-foot sloop, Chasseur, out of Norwalk Yacht Club (where he had served as governor) for many years. He also served for over 40 years on the Seaman’s Church Institute’s Board of Trustees and was a director of Stamford’s World Affairs Forum. Tom is predeceased by wife Judy, sister Betsy McLane McKinney ’45 and son Tim McLane. He is survived by his two siblings, Jamie McLane ’54 (Bryn Mawr, PA) and Greer McLane Hopkins ’56 (San Francisco, CA), his son Brad McLane of Winnetka, IL, and daughters Elizabeth Stocker-McLane of Zurich, Switzerland, and Jennifer McLaneHinchliffe of Pegram, TN.

86, died on Feb. 7, 2021, with a loving family by his side. Following Country School, he attended Phillips Academy Andover and Yale University ’57 and was a devoted member of his fraternity, St Anthony Hall. After serving in the Navy between 1958 and 1962, Court settled for a short time in NYC, where he met his wife, Margie “Woody” deForest. He had a long career in international banking with Morgan Guarantee Trust, spending several years overseas in Japan and Australia. In the early 1990s Court and Woody moved to South Blue Hill, ME, and established Haight Farm. Together they were active members of the community, where Court and Woody provided job opportunities, support and growth to numerous teenagers eager to learn about farming and hydroponics. He was always a friendly face at farmers markets, had a love of basketry and woodworking, jazz music, discussion groups about local and international politics and history, and was a 20-year member of Flash in the Pan, the local steel drum band. Court is predeceased by his wife, Woody. He is survived by his two daughters, Christin Barnett and Lila Gilbert; and brother, Peter Haight ’52. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to Blue Hill Library, 5 Parker Point Road, Blue Hill, ME 04614, or Blue Hill Heritage Trust, 157 Hinckley Ridge Road, Blue Hill, ME 04614. Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com.

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

Addison Cushman “Cush” May ’49, 87, of Warwick, NY, and Stamford, CT, passed away on June 5, 2021, in Stamford. Following Country School, he had a career in the banking field, including Citibank, Chase Manhattan, where he served as senior vice president and general manager of its branches in Japan, Korea, Taiwan and Guam; vice chairman of the Connecticut Bank & Trust, the Asian Development Bank in Manila, Philippines, and Peregrine Capital Ltd. in Hong Kong. Tim was a member of the Country School Board of Trustees (1980–1983). After he suffered a heart attack in 2017, the Mays moved to Edgehill, a continuing care facility in Stamford, where he peacefully passed away on June 5, surrounded by his family. In addition to his wife of nearly 60 years, Jean Beattie May, he is survived by his daughters: Julia May Boddewyn ’79 and Emily May Pierce ’83. Memorial contributions may be sent to the Warwick Historical Society, Box 353, Warwick, NY 10990, or the Brick Presbyterian Church, 62 East 92nd St., New York, NY 10128. To read the full obituary or to send an online condolence, visit www.lsvpmemorialhome.com

Timothy Fitzgerald Noble ’58, 78, of Cape May Court House, NJ, passed away June 9, 2021. Following Country School, he graduated from Lawrence

University in Appleton, WI, and married his college sweetheart Gail Martha Gustafson. Timothy served in the U.S. Air Force from 1965 to 1969 as an intelligence officer, and then moved to New Canaan where he and Gail raised their family, were active participants in the community and members of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church. Tim was the sixth generation of his family to be a member of the New York Stock Exchange, where he worked for his entire career. In 2004, he retired to Stone Harbor, NJ, and Cape May Court House, NJ, and became a member of St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, where he sang in the choir and served on the vestry. Together with Gail he founded the This n’ That thrift store, an outreach of St. Mary’s affordable housing goal. The numerous organizations he supported included the Branches Outreach Center, the Bayshore Discovery Project, and the Wetlands Institute. An avid sailor, he was a former commodore of the Yacht Club of Stone Harbor, where he helped run the Saturday morning sailboat races. Tim also loved playing bridge and golf. He was most excited about his twice weekly golf outings with EPGASH, where he acted as the handicap keeper of the group. Tim was a voracious reader, a bird watcher, a builder of model trains and loved new technology. Tim was predeceased by his wife, Gail, and is survived by his committed and loving partner for the last two years, Sheila Handley. He is also survived by his siblings George Noble ’57, Elizabeth Noble Tinch ’59 and Katrina Noble Davies ’63; his children Jim, Tom, Andy ’93 and Emily ’94; and Sheila Handley’s two daughters, Gianna and Alayna.

Andrew Johnston Laub ’12, 24, died in 2021. Following Country School, Andrew attended St. Luke’s School, where his innate love for learning applied equally to mathematics, physics and chemistry, literature and writing. He comfortably navigated quantitative complexity one moment, while in the next expressed his creativity through the deft use of language. Andrew graduated from Dartmouth College with degrees in physics and computer science. He joined CACI in Colorado Springs, CO, working on the team that manages the Air Force’s global array of satellites and earth stations. He was a valued employee and respected by his co-workers. Andrew was admired by friends for his perceptive demeanor. He wasn’t one to impose himself, but was always the first to offer support and assistance whenever needed. That said, no one more than Andrew loved to lead an elaborately contrived practical joke enjoyed by all. Andrew’s passion for learning and bottomless energy knew no bounds. He designed and built computers, 3D printers, a cloud chamber and any number of gadgets. A true pioneer, he constructed and flew drone aircraft, much to the confusion of the neighbors’ dogs, long before they were commercially available. His passion for flight led him to earn his pilot’s license one summer on Martha’s Vineyard, soloing a beloved Citabria numerous times to the mainland and back.

In college, Andrew developed a love for the outdoors as an avid hiker, leading many overnight hiking trips for the Dartmouth Outing Club. He took full advantage of living in Colorado to explore the Rockies both on foot and on skis. He was recently credentialed in avalanche training in preparation for a season of backcountry winter skiing. Andrew’s pursuits extended far beyond the realms of technology and the outdoors. Seldom without a book in hand, his love of reading nurtured a deep knowledge of rocketry, astronomy, nature, dogs, politics and barbecuing, to name just a few. He was a self-taught guitar player and loyally rooted for the Buffalo Bills along with his family. Having passed away at a far-too-early age, Andrew is remembered as a kind soul, quite comfortable in who he was and where he was going. He lived his life savoring passions. His bright smile and warm heart will be dearly missed by his parents, George and Heidi Laub, his siblings Nick ’09, Kristin ’10 and Elizabeth ’15, his dogs Roger and Blake and the rest of his adoring family.

Trustees

Judith Kleinhans Holding (1983–1988), 81, a teacher, chaplain, and source of inspiration for her family, friends, and the countless others whom she served with grace and humor, died peacefully on May 29, 2021, in Etna, NH, loved ones by her side. Her husband of 55 years, Bill, died in 2018. Judy is survived by her sons, Bill and Chris; and her daughter, Wendy ’88, her wife, Lindsay, and their children: Jasper and Willa.

We offer our condolences to the family and friends of the following members of our extended community: Enzy Anderson Grandmother of Christian Tookes ’02, Channing Tookes ’04, Ryann Tookes ’04 and Tessa Tookes ’10 Miggie Bryan Mother of Chris ’72, Sukey ’76 and Sallie ’80, wife of Barry (Board President 1978–1980) Garrett Cannon Grandfather of Garrett ’20, Emma ’22 and Liam ’23

Katharine “Katch” Cerow Mother of Pete ’82 and Bobby ’85 John Dauer Jr. Father of John ’95 and Pajton ’97

Keith Johnson Grandfather of Logan ’19, Riley ’21 and Larson ’23

Norman Feinberg Grandfather of Hudson ’23 and Seiler ’26

Joel Perez Grandfather of Ben Cali ’25 and Tommy Cali ’28, father of Middle School World Language Teacher Abby Cali

Robert Fisch Father of Alexandra ’31, husband of parent Christine Henry

Richard Siebert Grandfather of Marcus Ortiz ’24 and Maddie Ortiz ’26

Chester Gale Grandfather of Graham ’23 and Hope ’29

A LOOK BACK The dirty, clear glass milk bottle in our collection is not something one would likely take a second look at — until the embossed letters of Miller Dairy Farm are revealed with the fascinating story …

Inven-stories By Mark Macrides, School Archivist I was pleased to have some time this summer to reconnect with our history. The archives’ collections, which, for the past several years have been stored in various locations, were finally brought together in one space. This work, with the help of a summer intern, included quite a bit of packing, moving, unpacking, cataloging, inventorying, and of course much reminiscing and the inevitable storytelling that is at the heart and soul of any historical archives. After several weeks of this, I decided I could

revealed with the fascinating story about dairy farming on

do without the packing and moving and unpacking, but there

Ponus Ridge connected to the school’s owned and operated

was definitely something very refreshing about the inventorying.

dairy farm in the late 1930s. The nondescript photo album

Refreshing, not in the sense of the musty smell attached to many

covered in a dated floral wallpaper would be passed completely

of these things, but refreshing in the sense of the grounding the

by unless one knew that it contained photographs and articles

stories around these historical artifacts provide.

about a Country School program called Project BOOST, devel-

The word artifact is defined as something that is “made by a human being, typically an item of cultural or historical interest.”

Stevens and Polly Olsen, who eventually became its director.

The act of inventorying artifacts involves examination, preserva-

Project BOOST, designed to be “a flexible academic enrichment

tion and making lists or catalogs. The process of inventorying as

program to serve disadvantaged public school children” would

described above sounds quite mundane, and in fact would be,

ultimately reinvent itself into what we know today as Horizons.

except for one key unmentioned element of the process: the

Our little “armory” of silver spray-painted wooden lances and

stories. It is impossible to pick up an artifact and not ask, What

swords would raise many legitimate questions without the

is it? Why is it? Where Did it come from? And what is its value?

context of years of Medieval study in the fifth and sixth grades

Inventorying answers all of these questions quite efficiently

culminating in a full-scale Medieval Faire complete with simula-

using databases where information can easily be entered and

tions of jousting and sword fighting. These artifacts are simply

saved. This, in my mind, has always been just a small part of the

points of inspiration for reminiscing and storytelling.

full process. It is the act of what I like to call “inven-storying”

Storytelling is indeed the primary role of the archives in

that extends the process and reveals the main point of the

institutions such as our own school. The thoughtful weaving

definition of artifacts — the cultural or historical interest.

together of these stories is what helps create our culture and

Historical or cultural artifacts themselves often do not jump

oped in 1964 by NCCS faculty including Peg Brown, George

history. Our work this summer reminded me of that fact and

out in bright lights and declare their value and place in the

of the importance of the archives in schools, as well as our

world. In fact, they more often get buried in closets or base-

good fortune in employing Emma Thurton, Evelyn Liotard, Nick

ments underneath objects with more perceived relevance. It is

Thacher and others who understood that point and created

the stories attached to the artifacts that provide the context,

time and space for this work. It is no accident that NCCS has

the meaning, the entertainment and the reason for creating

such an extensive and preserved collection of artifacts. As a

elaborate systems and facilities for housing these otherwise

result of the work of these visionary individuals, I carry their

overlooked objects. The dirty, clear glass milk bottle in our

torch and jump back into the black hole of inventorying eager

collection is not something one would likely take a second

to transition, for whatever brief time I am granted, into the

look at — until the embossed letters of Miller Dairy Farm are

world of inven-storying.

NEW CANAAN COUNTRY SCHOOL BULLETIN • Winter 2022

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Save the Date! May 13–14

Alumni Weekend 2022

Stay tuned for up-to-date information on Alumni Events and find out more information on how we will celebrate our 2021 Alumni Award Winner, A.J. Mleczko Griswold ’90.