GREENS FARMS ACADEMY MAGAZINE | summer/fall 2023
commencement 2023 May term: five years later Alumni Reunion: back on the farm
GFA engages students as partners in an innovative, inclusive, and globally minded community to prepare them for lives of purpose.
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News & Events
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GREENS FARMS ACADEMY MAGAZINE summer/fall 2023
end of year events
Editor
Michelle Levi Design
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Lindsay Russo Photography
Carrie Amicucci Yoon S. Byun John Nash Rhonda Spevak
athletics
Contributors
Greens Farms Academy does not discriminate against any person in admission, financial aid, program involvement, employment, or otherwise because of sexual orientation, race, religion, age, gender, national origin, or disability.
Highlights
Carrie Amicucci Joe Flynn Ana Holwell John Nash
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arts
42
features
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alumni
“As we prepare for our 99th year as a learning institution we’re energized about the road ahead as we close in on a century of teaching and learning at GFA.”
A message from the head of school, BOB WHELAN On June 8th, the eighty-nine members of GFA’s Class of 2023 crossed the threshold from students to alumni during a beautiful commencement ceremony on the Front Lawn. They cheered for each other while surrounded by faculty, family, and friends in the same place where thousands of previous GFA graduates once sat. Commencement speaker, Elizabeth MacDonough ’84, Parliamentiarian to the United States Senate - and the first woman to hold this vital role - could relate, highlighting their common experience. “Nearly 40 years ago, I too was here on the beautiful lawn where you graduates are seated today,” she shared. “GFA is not exactly the same place it was when I roamed the halls 40 years ago. As someone at an alumni event a couple weeks ago said about our time here … this place was ‘just a house’. A big house, sure, but still a house. The school has expanded dramatically both in its physical appearance, its wide range of winning sports teams, and in its academic offerings.” And yet, she said, “I see that many of the finest things about GFA remain … the spirit of community lives large and loud here … true to our motto…Quisque Pro Omnibus, ‘Each for All.’ In short, this has been an incredible incubator for you to build the foundation for your next adventure – the adventure that will be your adult life.” Among our hopes for the remarkable Class of 2023 is one that I shared with them during a moment with them at commencement. “When you think back on this day, an image I hope you’ll remember is how you were surrounded; with the school wrapping around you, and in front of you, your family and friends who have known and loved you the longest. You will always have that to refer back to, a sense of connection that will serve as a protective factor when the going gets tough and one that will also serve to propel you.” Appropriately, the pages of this issue of The GFA Magazine are filled with stories of the sense of curiosity, adventure, and connection that are mainstays at GFA. In addition to celebrating our seniors, we highlight the accomplishments and transitions of our fourth and eighth graders (pages 18–21) and acknowledge the commitment of members of the BOT who are stepping down from their positions (page 5). We also honor the longtime faculty and administrators who are retiring from GFA this summer. This marks the energy of the second half of a tremendous school year and recounts spring hallmarks, including the Upper and Middle School plays, Lower School art show, Dragon Dash, Spring Sports Saturday, our vibrant Horizons program, Symposium, Grandparents Day, and another record-setting Giving Day. The success and commitment of our athletic teams resulted in another banner season for our spring sports (pages 32–37). You can learn more about an inspiring May Term program as well as a feature with our Math Department Chair discussing the future of math instruction. I invite you to read how Chris Piasecki ’04 turned personal tragedy into a community of support (pages 61–63) and get a glimpse at how our Kindergarteners imagined, designed, and activated their vision for a Garden Learning Center. They collaborated with people from all over GFA to make this a reality that will benefit all grades - and had fun doing it. As we prepare for our 99th year as a learning institution, we’re energized about the road ahead as we approach a century of teaching and learning at GFA. As always, enjoy these stories from Beachside and beyond and please stay in touch!
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Board of Trustees EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Ward Horton P ’24, ’28, Chair Vani Bettegowda P ’22, ’25, Vice Chair Don San Jose P ’22, ’25, Vice Chair Michael Blitzer P ’24, ’27, Treasurer Meade Fogel P ’27, ’28, ’28, Secretary David Durkin P ’18, ’22, ’23 Roger Ferris P ’18, ’18, ’20, ’28 Gil Aikins P ’33 Renee Bea P ’28, ’30 Rebecca Bliss Bill Bucknall GP ’24, ’26 Sandy Ewing P ’20, ’23, ’26 Sandra Frost Roopali Hall P ’31, ’33 Nadene McKenzie-Reid P ’25 Thomas Murphy P ’19, ’21, ’22, ’26 Sean Obi ’13 Andy Papadakos P ’26, ’30, ’37 Kim Keller Raveis ’88, P’ 23, ’25, ’28 Melanie Smith P ’22, ’24, ’29 Angela Timashev P ’21, ’23 Page Roberts Tremaine ’93, P ’23, ’26 Emily Von Kohorn ’96 Ex-officio: Bob Whelan P ’24 4 | www.gfacademy.org
In Recognition of Outgoing Leadership
With immense gratitude for their exceptional service and support, we bid farewell to five outstanding trustees whose terms concluded in June. Barbara Cona Amone P ’23
An outstanding volunteer, Barbara served as GFA Fund captain, an Advisory Council member, and on the Board of Trustees since 2020. She was a steadfast Advancement Committee member with a special gift for securing philanthropic support from and creating an esprit de corps among her fellow GFA parents. She has been a model partner, building connection and community through her grace, kindness, and good humor.
Kristen McDonald P ’21, ’23, ’25
Kristen joined the Board of Trustees in 2017. During her tenure, she served on multiple committees including Athletics, Marketing and Communications (MarCom), and Sustainability. She co-chaired MarCom for four years and led a comprehensive branding process for the school and the athletics program and guided the creation of several successful admission initiatives. She has been an exemplary storyteller and champion of GFA.
Samantha Mooney P ’18, ’20
Sam’s volunteer involvement with GFA spans 15 years and culminated with her service on the Board of Trustees from 2016-2023. From president of the Parents Association to co-chair of the Advisory Council to vice-chair of the Board of Trustees, she has been an exemplary leader, unwavering in her devotion and commitment to the school community. In each of these volunteer roles (and many more), Sam consistently demonstrated the attention to detail, generous spirit, and calm, effective leadership that are her hallmarks.
Kate Roth ’90, Ed. D., P ’20, ’24
Kate joined the Board of Trustees in 2017. She served with distinction on the Advance Plan, Educational Policy, and Equity and Inclusion Committees, enriching each of these committees and the Board with her perspective as an alumna, a parent, and an expert in the field of education. Kate has exemplified enduring commitment and enthusiasm for GFA and to the work of engaging students as partners which has led to important innovations in the curriculum.
Gregg Tenser P ’23, ’25
A passionate advocate for GFA, Gregg immediately signed on as a GFA Fund captain as a new parent and joined the Board of Trustees in 2020. He served on the Advancement and Finance Committees which benefited greatly from his expertise, experience, and entrepreneurial mindset. Gregg always answered the call to serve and support GFA in whatever was needed and with his trademark energy and enthusiasm.
departing Faculty Ian Campbell After three decades of exemplary service at GFA, Ian Campbell retired in June. Ian began in September of 1993, and taught Upper School History and Global Studies. Those who know Ian or have read his comments will appreciate the lyrical quality and nod to JRR Tolkien in his reflection on this inflection point in his journey. In his experience: Over the past thirty years, I have worked with some amazing colleagues, students, and families, but here by the sea and amongst the apple trees comes the end of our fellowship. The culture at GFA and the connection between faculty and students is really hard to replicate. The continuity of those relationships over the years has made GFA what it is, and that’s been a great source of satisfaction. What’s next: I have no firm plans as of yet, but know, in the words of Bob Dylan, that ‘my heart’s in the Highlands at the break of day, over the hills and far away. There’s a way to get there, and I’ll figure it out somehow. But I’m already there in my mind, and that’s good enough for now.’
Bob Guffin
After more than two decades of exceptional teaching at GFA, Bob Guffin retired at the end of this academic year. Beginning in September of 1999, Bob taught Upper School History and Global Studies. Bob rarely describes the development of his master craftsmanship in the classroom without acknowledging the impact that OJ Burns (whom Bob Whelan described as his Obi-Wan Kenobi) and other GFA teachers have had on him. In his experience: My greatest pride during my time on the Farm was having the opportunity to work with a remarkably knowledgeable and generous faculty. They stressed to me as a new member of the team that teaching was truly a calling and that each day brought a unique opportunity to broaden our students’ understanding of the world and their recognition of the importance of character in putting that knowledge to good use, while making the world a better place. My only advice to future teachers and students at GFA is to take this opportunity seriously and to recognize that the foundation you help build together today will bear fruit for good or ill in the future. What’s Next: Now that I will have the time, I hope I can use my background in government and American history to help immigrants to our country pass their citizenship tests and continue their contributions to our nation as they have done since its inception.
Justine Fellows After nineteen years at GFA, Justine Fellows looks forward to beginning a new chapter. Justine shared, “I am forever grateful to the GFA community for helping to raise and educate my two daughters, Kallie ’17 and Emma ’22, and for being such a wonderful and supportive community to have grown and learned professionally in. I am so privileged to have worked with such talented students, supportive families, and a staff who is always willing to collaborate, to share their incredible knowledge, and who knows how to laugh and enjoy being together!” Her proudest moments: I started at GFA when academic technology was just in its infant stages. I feel very proud of how it has become a seamless part of our academic lives and certainly how this amazing faculty adapted to even newer technologies during the pandemic. It’s hard not to be proud of mastering multiple schedules and the art of setting up and putting together an amazing puzzle of classes, rosters, and rooms each year. Ed Denes taught me well!
Ann Miller Ann Miller will begin a new chapter as she and her husband downsize their home and move to more rural Connecticut environs. During Ann’s eight years at GFA, she built relationships with countless students, colleagues, and volunteers to tell the GFA story to prospective students and families - efforts that led to enrollment growth of a remarkable 10% during her tenure. Ann wrote, “Since my first day at GFA, I have been so impressed by this loving, talented community that puts children at the center of everything we do. I will miss you all so much, and look forward to bringing the many lessons I have learned here to the next chapter. Jeff and I are off to a condo in Litchfield - I hope we will have plenty of GFA visitors.” What’s next: Ann hopes to continue her admission work - primarily consulting with independent schools around the partnership between admission/communications/marketing. In her experience: The best part of admission work, in my view, is the collaboration with everyone in the school, but I am most proud of the deep and lasting friendships that I have formed, and am so proud of the amazing children and families who have joined this community in the last eight years. She advises: Jump in with both feet - attend games, be an advisor, coach, May Term teacher or lead an after-school club. Go on the class trips in the fall, sit with a stranger at lunch, and most of all, laugh loudly at Bob’s jokes in meetings. “All of those things are what I will most fondly look back on. GFA is a truly magical place - and I have been proud to be a part of this very special community.” summer 2023 | 7
Peace
Games
GFA Lower School’s annual PEACE Games is a favorite day for our youngest learners. This tradition dates back as long as anyone in the Lower School can remember and involves students dividing into teams to research countries and cultures and then represent them in a day of friendly fun competitions and games. “To say the day is highly anticipated and festive is an understatement,” says Head of Lower School Jane Verlin, “it is one of the most exciting days of our year. The smiles are everywhere.” The students parade out to the fields wearing self designed t-shirts and carrying colorful flags. They cheer each other on, recite a traditional PEACE team chant, and enjoy some end-of-the-year revelry. Even our faculty can’t help but join in the fun. We know there are alums out there smiling reading this right now. PEACE Games forever GFA!
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Dragon Dash and Spring Sports Saturday
An annual favorite returned this year as the Parents Association hosted GFA’s Dragon Dash. This 5K run or walk allows participants to take in local views and raise funds for great causes including Horizons GFA and Komera, a non-profit organization in Rwanda that “develops self confident young women through education, community development, and health.”
This year’s Dragon Dash was accompanied by Spring Sports Saturday which featured competition from men’s and women’s lacrosse, baseball, softball, and tennis. Spring Sports Saturday also hosted several lacrosse clinics for younger Dragon laxers in grades PreK-6 in support of Pink Aid.
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May Term
may term
Aloud! Slam Poetry, Spoken Word, Boasts, and Moth-Style Storytelling Alternative Histories Through Gaming AmericaSon: Black, White, and Blue Architectural Drawing & Design The Art of the Chinese Strategy Game-Go The Art of Wabi Sabi: Working with Clay, Natural Dyes, and Poetry Basics of Asian Cooking Beyond the Walls of Beachside: Day Trips Near and a Little Far BON APPÉTIT: Let’s Learn About French Culture Through Food! The Big Read: Moby-Dick Design Thinking Disney Adaptations: A Whole New World Dragons in the Wild Exploring Mathematics Through Magic The Great GFA Bake Off: Creating and Producing Baking Shows In Pursuit of Purpose Introduction to Exercise Science and Sport History Introduction to Linguistics Jazz Improvisation 101 Killer Course Mock Trial Model United Nations Movies & Madness: How the Media Distorts Our Perceptions of Mental Health One Struggle, One Fight: The LGBTQ+ Civil Rights Movement in the US Painting and Drawing Through Observation A Puzzler’s Paradise! Real Life 101 The Science of Thrill Rides! Sustainability through Indigenous Viewpoints and Scientific Inquiry War and Film 10 | www.gfacademy.org Writing for the Screen: The One-Act Zoom Play
Courses
For more on the seven-day courses that enrich the GFA student experience beyond our core curriculum, read “The Magic of May Term” later in this magazine. We also believe that these photos and a simple array of course offerings from 2023 tell a pretty impressive story about the wonders of our May Term program. Take a look.
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Global
Symposium
GFA’s 12th annual Global Symposium was nothing short of inspiring. Formerly known as the World Perspectives Symposium, the event featured over 140 Upper School presentations, demonstrations, and performances. Subjects in STEAM, sustainability, global studies, English, arts, athletics, and sciences, stemmed the opportunity for the GFA community to witness a grand display of excellence. Throughout the academic year faculty shifted into the role of collaborator, mentoring students on their projects, while also learning something new themselves. “I learned a lot from the students during the poster presentations. Flies can get Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease? What?! As if the life of a fly wasn’t already short enough,” said Jon Matte, Department of Mathematics. “Every student with whom I spoke was excited, well-rehearsed, and downright eloquent.” After opening remarks from Associate Head of School Sue Teyan and Head of School Bob Whelan, the event kicked off
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with a beautiful vocal performance by Daniela Galik ’23, and an empowering presentation from Keynote Speaker Ratmir Timashev P ’23. Following the keynote, students showcased their research at the Inquiry Fair in the Coyle Gymnasium. Throughout the day, students then got the opportunity to present in the classrooms - both solo and in groups - to their peers, faculty, staff, family, and trustees. A few topics presented included: Regulation and Reputation: How Big Pharma Affects The Perception of Homeopathic Treatment in the United States, The Supreme Court’s Downfall: The Overlap Between Personal Ideology, Rhetoric, and Constitutional Interpretation, and Fight Club: The Process of Developing Stage Combat Choreography. Symposium closed with a moving performance and speech by Elizabeth Jones ’23 playing a portion of Elgar’s Cello Concerto, with her mother on piano. It was truly a day to remember.
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Grandparents &
Each April, GFA opens its doors to some very, and we mean very, special visitors for our annual Grandparents and Special Friends Day. 2023 marked the return of this tradition to our Middle School. Hundreds of grandparents and people who make a difference in the lives of our students arrived on campus and were greeted in the gallery to a lively art show. The guests then enjoyed performances from students. Head of School Bob Whelan addressed the visitors saying, “With the wisdom of life experience that all of you have, you know how connected the world has become. When I think about preparing our students for lives of purpose, I can promise you in no uncertain terms, unequivocally, the role that you play as a connected source of unconditional love cheering them on, will make such a positive difference in their lives.”
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Jane Verlin, Head of GFA’s Lower School, thanked the guests for “showing up” for the students citing Tina Payne Bryson’s research that one of the best predictors of a child’s positive future is whether there are people who are consistently there for them. After the assembly, the visitors were invited to join their special friends in their classrooms. Lower School students engaged in free form show-and-tell, giving their guests a peek at what their world at GFA looks like. Middle School visitors audited courses and buffed up on some world history and earth science! From Mexico and Canada, to Wisconsin and just beyond Beachside, grandparents and special friends traveled far and wide to spend the day at GFA. It was certainly a day to remember.
special Friends
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Horizons GFA Summer Academy kicked off in June, welcoming 186 Bridgeport students from PreK–8th grade. The six-week program consists of rigorous academic mornings, followed by innovative enrichment activities in the afternoons. Come visit this summer! See below for tour information. HGFA also celebrated graduation season honoring the hard work and dedication of our college and high school students – three of whom were their schools’ salutatorians! Once again, we are proud to share 100% high school graduation and 100% postsecondary acceptance! We look forward to continuing our work with these students, through one-on-one coaching and the Career Launch Program. This fall, we are excited for another special Fall Fest, run by the GFA Horizons Club, on November 4th. Save the date for the annual Fall Gala on November 16th, held at The Knowlton for an even bigger, better, and more meaningful event! To reserve your table or sponsorship, or to schedule a tour email arosen@gfacademy.org.
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Lower School
Moving Up
An annual rite of passage for our GFA fourth graders was filled with smiles and hugs as our Lower School leaders officially moved up to Middle School after several musical performances, and a meaningful, faculty-lined parade into the Janet Hartwell Performing Arts Center.
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The 4th Grade Moving Up Ceremony comes the day after, Lower School Head Jane Verlin officially “poufs” each lower schooler into their new grade. Every student heads off to summer vowing to “try something new,” “do something brave,” “meet new people,” and other life-enriching goals!
“The Fourth Grade Moving Up Ceremony marks a milestone in our children’s educational journey. They have so much to feel proud of, and it’s such a joy to celebrate them and their accomplishments of successfully completing their time in Lower School. We can’t wait to see what they make of Middle School!” Jane Verlin Head of Lower School
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MS Moving Up Dare to be Different, dare to be yourself.
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8th graders reflect on their time in the Middle School
“It was a whirlwind of excitement and nervousness but we faced it head on. Change can be intimidating. It can make us feel uncertain and uncomfortable but it is through change that we discover our true strength and resilience.” Jaiden Jackson ’27
“Today I want to express my gratitude to all of my teachers and peers for making this an unforgettable journey. Over the past few years we have shared countless memories that have shaped our Middle School experience.” Livia Balkan ’27
“In the blink of an eye we progressed from drawing pictures of monsters to solving equations or speaking in the Forum. Along the way we encountered countless obstacles and challenges that forced us to grow, stretch our limits, and discover our true potential.” Jackie Elsener ’27
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Commencement 23 “Today is a major milestone. Each of our lives is punctuated with them - graduations, your first job or big promotion, your first house… this is the stuff of the big movie montage. Such events should be marked and celebrated – and they will be – in photos and stories that you tell forever.” Elizabeth MacDonough ’84 22 | www.gfacademy.org
On Thursday, June 8th Greens Farms Academy graduated eighty-nine exceptional members of the class of 2023. Faculty, Trustees, family, Upper School classmates, and friends joined commencement speaker, United States Senate Parliamentarian and class of 1984 GFA graduate Elizabeth MacDonough and Head of School Bob Whelan in celebrating this special group. As only someone who once stood on the Front Lawn in the same position as these graduates could do, MacDonough delivered a commencement address that was moving, relatable, humorous, and arguably one of the best this ceremony has ever featured. Cheered on by a row of classmates and lifelong friends MacDonough said “today is a major milestone. Each of our lives is punctuated with them - graduations, your first job or big promotion, your first house…this is the stuff of the big movie montage. Such events should be marked and celebrated – and they will be – in photos and stories that you tell forever.”
And yet, she continued, “most of life – the really good stuff - is lived in the 364 other days of the year between those milestones and all those days matter. Your time alone, and your experiences with your family and friends, your colleagues and classmates, doing regular things – sitting on the couch watching a movie with your mom; playing cards with your dad; bowling with your best friends on a rainy Saturday or 18 hours binge-watching “Behind the Music” with your brother, ordering pizza and laughing until you can’t breathe – those things will fill the pages of the book of your life. Remind yourself from time to time to celebrate the everyday, the minutiae, because the book is always better than the movie and it deserves a close read.” Her full address is published in its entirety in the following pages. Earlier in the program, Head of School Bob Whelan drew on the same concept of connection. Turning to the graduates, he explored the Greek roots of the word nostalgia - nostos meaning home and algos meaning pain. Research shows that “some of the most connected, resilient people lean on nostalgia,” he said, “and it is not wanting to go back, but it is actually looking to evoke or bring forward the things that were most important at that time.” “You will carry that sense of connection” Whelan promised the graduates. “When you think back on this day, what I want you to think about is how the school surrounded you, the people who have known and loved you the longest, you will always be able to refer back to this. It will serve as a protective factor when the going gets tough and it will propel you,” he continued. While sharing photos of the class performing their eighth grade play, The Wizard of Oz, Whelan said, “in the next chapter I can promise you that there will be times you feel you don’t have enough courage, you might feel like an imposter, you don’t have the wisdom, you might feel somewhat down that you don’t have the heart, that you are longing for home.” At those times, he urged them, “you can always return to the memory of this day, this place, and the knowledge that you have left your mark here. They say people come into our lives for a reason, bring something we can learn. You have changed us for the better. Because we have known you, GFA has been changed for the good.” 24 | www.gfacademy.org
“When you think back on this day, what I want you to think about is how the school surrounded you, the people who have known and loved you the longest, you will always be able to refer back to this. It will serve as a protective factor when the going gets tough and it will propel you.” Bob Whelan Head of School
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soar on
Amherst College (2) Bates College Boston College Boston University (2) Brigham Young University Bucknell University (3) University of California-Berkeley University of California-Los Angeles (3) University of California-Santa Barbara Colby College Colgate University (2) University of Colorado Boulder (4) Colorado College Cornell University (2) Davidson College Denison University University of Denver Dickinson College Duke University Elon University (2) Franklin and Marshall College Franklin Pierce University (2)
George Washington University (2) Georgetown University (2) Harvard University Indiana University (2) Lafayette College Lehigh University University of Louisville Loyola Marymount University (2) University of Maryland Massachusetts Institute of Technology Mercy University University of Miami University of Michigan New England Conservatory of Music New York University Northeastern University (4) Northwestern University (2) University of Notre Dame Ohio State University University of Pennsylvania Princeton University Rhodes College
University of Richmond Santa Clara University (2) Skidmore College Smith College Swarthmore College (2) Tulane University (2) United States Military Academy-West Point Vassar College Villanova University (4) University of Virginia (3) Wake Forest University (3) Washington and Lee University Wentworth Institute of Technology Wesleyan University Western New England University
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2023 Greens Farms Academy Commencement
Elizabeth MacDonough ’84 Mr. Whelan, Members of the Board, Distinguished faculty (with a particular nod to Mrs. Morrison), family (with a particular nod to Mrs. Duffy) and friends, thank you so much for the honor of being with you today to celebrate the class of 2023. Good morning and congratulations, graduates! Congratulations also to the parents, siblings and friends who have helped you reach this milestone today. This is a wonderful time for all of you. Nearly 40 years ago, I too was here on that beautiful lawn seated where you graduates are today. I no longer remember all of the details of that day – other than the sunburn -- but I know I had some mixed emotions. I loved the four years I spent at GFA. I had been fortunate enough to spend three of those years with my upper-classman brother, Richard, my life-long best friend, on whose successful coattails I was accepted into GFA. And I had the two most wonderful partners in crime – Jackie and Vicky – that anyone could hope for. I recall that I was eager to start the next phase of my life but sad to be leaving this amazing school with its unmatched setting and nurturing environment. Perhaps you feel some of that conflict within yourself today. And I am sure that many of your parents look on you today and see you at every age you have been and they feel a bit torn as well. GFA is not exactly the same place it was when I roamed the halls 40 years ago. As someone at an alumni event a couple weeks ago said about our time here … this place was “just a house”. A big house, sure, but still a house. The school has expanded dramatically both in its physical appearance, its wide range of winning sports teams and in its academic offerings. You have outbuildings and wrestling; you have con law… and oh my word … lockers!! But having been here a few times recently, I see that many of the finest things about GFA remain. The titans of my day … Coyle, Denes, Van Acker, True, Sigloh, Burns, Baumann and Schwartz, to name a few, are no longer here, but others have taken their places. Teachers who get to know you and strive to bring out your best work and help you find your true selves. Mentors who guide you and offer constructive counsel and … sometimes … constructive criticism. I know a great deal 28 | www.gfacademy.org
about the latter. And, importantly, the spirit of community lives large and loud here … true to our motto … Quisque Pro Omnibus. Each for All. In short, this has been an incredible incubator for you to build the foundation for your next adventure – the adventure that will be your adult life. I can’t tell you what to pack for that adventure – nobody can – a trip, sure -- but an adventure is a distinctly personal and thus unique experience. It’s longer and often less structured, subject to the vicissitudes of life. And each of you is about to embark upon that experience – one that has more freedom and responsibility than that to which you are likely accustomed. So, what can I offer you as you head out into the world? I think the best I can do is tell you a few things that I have learned in the many years since I crossed that porch myself. When I was your age, I am fairly certain I thought I knew just about everything already, so if you ignore what I say here today, I won’t be at all offended. Just know that my
words come from the heart with the best of wishes for your enduring happiness. The first thing I will tell you is that – surprise -- I was wrong about knowing everything when I was 18. In fact, I didn’t seem to know as much about myself as perhaps I should have at that age. I certainly didn’t think I’d be the Senate Parliamentarian, some nerdy rules enforcer who actually has a favorite brand of pencil. I left GFA thinking I would major in biology - maybe concentrating on oceanography and perhaps heading to Woods Hole someday. It’s rather an odd endeavor for someone who has been irrationally terrified of sharks since seeing JAWS on the big screen in 1975. But that’s what I recall thinking I would do in college. And yet, going through my mother’s things in storage recently, I found an old GFA report card – I found several actually but the others are too hideous to mention. One of my teachers had wished me well in my pursuit of drama school and, further, there was a letter from the drama department of one of the colleges to which I had been accepted – it outlined the requirements for a BFA. I have no memory of that letter. I am sure by now you know the logical next step was for me to major in English Literature in college, although my best grades came in political science classes. Some people know exactly what their path is – many of you graduates probably do – they set a course and head right for it. I have always admired and been a little envious of such certitude.
That wasn’t my experience. I was more of an amoeba when it came to my direction – vague and changing shape with movement and time. In time I found work and law school – and I thrived in both places. My point here is this: sometimes it takes a while to find your groove - in school, in your choice of profession or in life. But you will find it, as I did, in your own way and on your own time. Coming from DC, both then and now, you can probably guess I’m a Nats fan. But it is hard not to love at least one Yankee, Yogi Berra, and his hilarious aphorisms. His most well-known might be “when you come to a fork in the road, take it.” Wise words from our pinstriped friend. The road ahead – your life – is indeed full of forks. There are innumerable decisions you will make every day – some more consequential than others. Everything from the mundane “should I return my shopping cart?” (yes) to the formative “do I go to that 8 am Friday class or not … who’s going to know?” (somehow – your mother) to the transformational “Do I take a job I won’t love to get experience I need?” I’m not going to answer that one for you. What you choose – what you decide -- will not only show who you are and what you value, but it will further shape who you become. There will be both hard lines you cannot cross when you just walk away from a situation – that is a choice, after all -- and there will be compromises. Taking responsibility for your choices is a corollary of the freedom you have to make them and is summer 2023 | 29
“Hope is lofty and dreamy but … impossibly… real and palpable all at the same time. And today we weave it all together and wrap you in its mantle – but it shouldn’t feel heavy because our hopes are not upon you, they are with you - with the dreams and aspirations you have for yourselves.” critical to growing up and establishing the independence you so much want for yourself. You will make some mistakes and probably a few actually bad choices – everyone does. Getting in an online argument about Senate procedure – bad choice. Plugging in a space heater during a video presentation in the middle of a Senate impeachment trial and causing a power outage – mistake. Having survived those episodes, I now have the opportunity to lie awake on many nights going over and over in my mind the decisions I make as part of my job in the Senate – analyzing the forks I have selected. It can be painful but you learn from your decisions and you learn from the process and you move on. More often, it is rewarding and joyous – you make good decisions, you get better at making good decisions and you thrive. Speaking of adults and freedoms and coming to you from DC, I want to mention a super-power that 18 year-olds have: the power to vote. Your vote has exactly the same value as mine, or that of your head of school or your parents. But only if you use it. So, while it’s easy to disengage when you feel that politics is distasteful and government is distant – let me assure you - one may be true but the other is not. You know this from your civics, history and government studies here. The impact of local, state, and federal government is all around you. If you like it, vote to support it; if you don’t like it vote to change it, but please don’t throw away your franchise. If you are ever tempted to think that your vote doesn’t matter, I give you the very true tale of Messrs. Wyman and Durkin – whose run for Senate in 1974 came down 30 | www.gfacademy.org
to two votes. And remember what Ben Franklin reportedly said when asked in 1787 if we had a republic or a monarchy … “a Republic, if you can keep it.” Less well known is the rejoinder from the woman, Elizabeth Powel, who asked the question in the first place … “and why not keep it?” Why not, indeed. To stay vital, your country needs your enlightened participation. Please keep that in mind even as you are busy living your life. Today is a major milestone. Each of our lives is punctuated with them - graduations, your first job or big promotion, your first house - things for which cards and confetti are made; or perhaps you meet your heroes or someone whose work you truly admire. This is the stuff of the big movie montage. Such events should be marked and celebrated – and they will be – in photos and stories that you tell forever. I know because I have had more than my share - meeting President Nelson Mandela; holding the saffron robe of the Dalai Lama as he prayed over the Senate; hugging President Obama at several State of the Union addresses; taking Vice President Harris her first bill to sign as President of the Senate – the first woman and first person of color to have done so; working closely with the Chief Justice of the United States during impeachment; landing on the of an aircraft carrier – tailhook style - in the Pacific Ocean, and figuratively holding on to my lunch as we launched off the deck the next day; meeting Bruce Springsteen -- at the White House when he got his Presidential Medal of Freedom and being able to convey to him what his music meant to me. I am fairly certain Mr. Springsteen has heard it all before but it was special to
me. I was also witness to the many heroes of January 6th – widely known and unacknowledged - whose astonishing bravery kept our electoral process on track. So, believe me when I say that my life – your life - our lives -- are so much bigger and more complex than what can fit into an array of dazzling but fleeting experiences. Most of life – the really good stuff - is lived in the 364 other days of the year between those milestones and all those days matter. Your time alone, and your experiences with your family and friends, your colleagues and classmates, doing regular things – sitting on the couch watching a movie with your mom; playing cards with your dad; bowling with your best friends on a rainy Saturday or 18 hours binge-watching “Behind the Music” with your brother, ordering pizza and laughing until you can’t breathe – those things will fill the pages of the book of your life. Remind yourself from time to time to celebrate the everyday, the minutiae, because the book is always better than the movie and it deserves a close read. I wish to say a few words about and to our parents. I can never come here without thinking of my mother and how important it was to her that my brother and I attend GFA. She couldn’t really afford to send us here, but she also believed she couldn’t afford not to. We were new to the area, my mom was working like the stevedore she always was – lots of late nights and weekends. The curriculum here was wonderful, teachers were amazing - Mr. Denes was like a second father to so many kids – my brother and me included. If you played sports and participated in the plays or special events, you could easily find yourself here (legitimately here – not just sneaking in to hang out) until nine or ten at night, many nights during the week. And there were often things happening here on the weekends. GFA became a home to us as much as it was a school and that remains true today. The friends we made are family – we’ve never lost those connections no matter where we live or how much time passes between get togethers – we pick up right where we left off. That’s been an enduring gift my mother gave us that my brother and I can never repay. When I came to GFA in March, I sat with many of the graduating seniors to get to know them better. Among the things we discussed were their inspirations, motivations and heroes. Their answers were so familiar to me – for many of them, it’s you, their parents. They admire your hard work, your service to our country, your sacrifice to send them here. They spoke proudly of your achievements – some of you are immigrants to this country or were the first in your families to go to college. They are grateful for your example and for letting them be themselves and pursue their own dreams. A generation
who often asks us to really “see them” very much sees you. In closing, I want to thank the graduates for welcoming me and making time for me back in March. Mr. Whelan told me before my trip that these fine young people would lift my battered spirits and of course he was right. It’s hard not to have a good day when sitting between a unicorn and a hot dog. You give us all so much hope -hope for the future and better days ahead. Hope is a uniquely human quality - it’s an indomitable spirit that we somehow maintain. Often, even in the face of solid odds to the contrary, we hope for better circumstances and outcomes; we hope for great things. And often we are rewarded with the changes we seek – and even when we aren’t we seldom lose hope; it’s right there at the end of our fingertips, maybe just out of reach but not gone. Hope is lofty and dreamy but … impossibly… real and palpable all at the same time. And today we weave it all together and wrap you in its mantle – but it shouldn’t feel heavy because our hopes are not upon you, they are with you - with the dreams and aspirations you have for yourselves. I know from talking with many of you that you have so many interests – from art and music to world affairs, from engineering and medicine to law and government – along with wishes to make a difference in the world. Each of us here wants you to do well and do good; to succeed at whatever you try. With all that we have, we are hoping for it. Thank you, Congratulations, and Good Luck, Class of 2023.
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The Greens Farms Academy spring sports season proved to be another successful campaign on fields of play throughout the region. It was so successful, in fact, that the Dragons brought home five different championships. Those titles included a first-ever crown for the Girls Golf team; two titles for the GFA Softball team, the first regular season crown since 2006 and first-ever tournament championships; the FAA regular season and tournament championship for the Boys Tennis Team; and repeat championships for Boys and Girls Lacrosse, with the boys claiming the regular season crown for the third year in a row and Girls Lacrosse sweeping both the regular season and tournament championships. Here’s a look back at the 2023 Spring Season.
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GIRLS GOLF
Under fourth year head coach John Humphries, and in only the program’s sixth year of existence, the Dragons ran the table in the FAA and finished the regular season with an 110-1 mark. For the first time in the program’s history, GFA didn’t lose to either Greenwich Academy (a 2.5-2.5 tie) or Sacred HeartGreenwich (a 3.5-1.5 win), allowing the Dragons to claim the regular season championship. Additionally, GFA’s Charlotte Wagner ’24 was co-medalist during the FAA Girls Golf Championship tournament. Wagner, along with teammates Maxie Mirin, Lila Reiling, Isabella Hassan and Francesca Sullivan, were on the course for most of the team’s varsity matches. SOFTBALL
The Dragons went undefeated in FAA play, posting a 7-0 league mark to win the regular season championship for the first time since 2006. In the FAA tournament, the Dragons topped Hopkins 11-6 in the semifinals and then scored two runs in the bottom of the sixth inning of the FAA tournament championship game to pull out a 5-4 win over three-time defending champion St. Luke’s. Seniors Analise Trani, Alison Bouchard, Phoebe Nelson and Liyana Assaria-Issa along with juniors Zoe Monschein and pitcher Annie Gabriele were vital in the Dragons putting together a banner-winning season. BOYS TENNIS
During the regular season, the GFA Boys Tennis team, under first-year coach Aaron Kusza, shared the regular season championship with the Hopkins School. During the FAA tournament, however, the Dragons won three championships to stake their claim as tournament champs over the Hilltoppers. Davis McDonald ’23 took home the 1/2 Singles Championship while Joseph Lublinsky ’24 won the 3/4 Singles crown. Matvey Timashev ’23 and Noah Richer ’27 joined forces to win the FAA doubles title, clinching the first tournament championship for the Dragons since 2006. summer 2023 | 33
GIRLS LACROSSE
After sweeping the FAA regular season and tournament championships a year ago, the GFA Girls Lacrosse team did it again this spring. Under co-head coaches Ciara Thurlow and Mackenzie Kirkup, the Dragons lost their season opener, 14-11, to Springfield (NJ) Township High School. From there, though, the Dragons strung together 14 straight victories and taking the FAA regular season championship with an unblemished record. In the FAA tournament, the Dragons topped Greenwich Country Day 17-11 in the semifinals and then beat Holy Child 11-7 for the tournament championship. BOYS LACROSSE
For the third straight season, the Dragons won the FAA regular season championship, finishing 10-3 overall and 7-0 in league play. During the tournament, GFA advanced to the championships game with a 10-4 win over King. In the finals, though, an 11-8 loss to Greenwich Country Day left the Dragons just short of a second straight tournament title. GFA’s Luke Laferriere ’23 was named All-American for his prowess on the field. GIRLS TENNIS
The GFA squad put together another successful season, and while the Dragons fell short of defending their two-time run as New England champs, a player still brought home some hardware. Charlotte Calderwood ’23 won the FAA singles championships for GFA, the second straight year a Dragon has won the individual singles championship. Calderwood and Lane Durkin ’23 went undefeated the entire season, not losing a single set from the top two singles slots. BOYS GOLF
The Dragons had a deep team that posted a winning record this season, losing just three times in dual match competitions while posting two shutout defeats in FAA play. During the FAA tournament, playing without their No. 1 golfer, five of the six Dragons posted their career best for 18 holes, proving this was a team that would battle all opponents regardless of the line-up. 34 | www.gfacademy.org
ULTIMATE FRISBEE
The Ultimate Frisbee team saw an influx of new athletes who took to the sport like Dragons taking to a castle, posting a 7-4 regular season record. After starting the season by hosting the GFA Invitational, the Dragons marched straight to the season-ending state tournament ready to play under coach Bryan Matte. It was there the Dragons won the Spirit Award while placing third in the Division II ranks. TRACK AND FIELD
A young track and field squad overcame some injuries to set some school records and post some big finishes in the championship meet season. Mark Freeman ’24 broke his brother’s school record in the 100-meter dash while Hadley Rosow ’26 and Quinn Reynolds ’24 were named All-FAA for their performances in the league championships meet. Lolled Oshin ’26, meanwhile, placed sixth in New England in the high jump during her first season doing the event. BASEBALL
After getting decimated by graduation, a young squad of Dragons took to the diamond this spring under first-year head coach Peter Jay. The Dragons rallied behind seniors Charlie Lafreniere ’23, Nevin Belanger ’23, and Joel Strand ’23, posting an 8-7 mark and missing out on the FAA playoffs following a multi-way tie for the fourth and final spot. SAILING
Under a new head coach, the Dragons sailors took to the waters for another successful season behind senior captains Max Laferriere ’23 and Cole Nightingale ’23. From training in Florida to regattas all around the region, the Dragons sailed their best with a young team looking to improve. One highlight for the squad was sweeping five head-to-head regattas to qualify for the 2023 Fairfield County Sailing League’s Gold Cup.
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Postseason Honors Dozens of Greens Farms Academy athletes were honored by both the Fairchester Athletic Association, the New England Prep School Athletic Conference and some national entities following successful spring and winter seasons.
SOFTBALL
ALL-NEPSAC FIRST TEAM— Analise Trani ’23, Zoe Monschein ’24, Izzy Kittredge ’25 ALL-NEPSAC HONORABLE MENTION— Natalie Blazovic ’26, Delilah Johnson ’26, Cora Barrett ’27 ALL-WESTERN NEW ENGLAND— Analise Trani ’23, Zoe Monschein ’24 WESTERN NEW ENGLAND ALL-STARS— Analise Trani ’23, Zoe Monschein ’24 ALL-FAA FIRST TEAM— Analise Trani ’23, Zoe Monschein ’24, Annie Gabriele ’24, Izzy Kittredge ’25 ALL-FAA HONORABLE MENTION— Cora Barrett ’27
GIRLS LACROSSE
JACKIE PITTS AWARD NATIONAL WINNER— Justine Luth ’23 ACADEMIC ALL-AMERICAN— Charlotte Walter ’24 ALL-NEPSAC FIRST TEAM— Grace Almeida ’25, Charlotte Walter ’24, Lydia San Jose ’25, Laci Raveis ’23 ALL-NEPSAC HONORABLE MENTION— Molly Duffy ’23, Janelle Mascis ’25, Justine Luth ’23, Emma Orenstein ’23 ALL-FAA FIRST TEAM— Emma Orenstein ’23, Laci Raveis ’23, Charlotte Walter ’24, Grace Almeida ’25, Lydia San Jose ’25, Janelle Mascis ’25 ALL-FAA SECOND TEAM— Livia Orenstein ’25 ALL-FAA HONORABLE MENTION— Molly Duffy ’23
BOY S L A C R O S S E
US LACROSSE ALL-AMERICAN— Luke Laferriere ’23 ALL-NEPSAC FIRST TEAM—Jason Rubinstein ’23, Luke Laferriere ’23, Liam Kuryla ’24 ALL-NEPSAC HONORABLE MENTION— Alex Cichella ’26, Alex Barbagallo ’25, Townes Russian ’23 ALL-FAA FIRST TEAM— Luke Laferriere ’23, Jason Rubinstein ’23, Liam Kuryla ’24 ALL-FAA SECOND TEAM— Alex Barbagallo ’25 ALL-FAA HONORABLE MENTION— Aneesh Roy ’23
GIRLS TENNIS
ALL-NEPSAC FIRST TEAM— Charlotte Calderwood ’23, Lane Durkin ’23 ALL-NEPSAC HONORABLE MENTION— Vy Cullen ’25, Devin McCormack ’24 ALL-FAA FIRST TEAM— Lane Durkin ’23, Charlotte Calderwood ’23 ALL-FAA HONORABLE MENTION— Devin McCormack ’24, Vy Cullen ’25
BOY S T E N N I S
ALL-NEPSAC FIRST TEAM— Davis McDonald ’23 ALL-NEPSAC HONORABLE MENTION— Coleman Mercy ’24, Joseph Lublinsky ’24 ALL-FAA FIRST TEAM— Matvey Timashev ’23, Davis McDonald ’23, Coleman Merce ’24, Jack Blitzer ’24, Joseph Lublinsky ’24, Noah Richer ’27 36 | www.gfacademy.org ALL-FAA HONORABLE MENTION— Owen Hecker ’26
GIRLS GOLF
ALL-FAA FIRST TEAM— Charlotte Wagner ’24, Isabella Hassan ’25, Lila Reiling ’28 ALL-FAA HONORABLE MENTION— Francesca Sullivan ’24
BOY S G O L F
ALL-FAA HONORABLE MENTION— Eli Kennon ’23
TRACK AND FIELD
ALL-FAA HONORABLE MENTION— Quinn Reynolds ’24, Hadley Rosow ’26 ALL-NEPSAC—Lolade Oshin ’26
BASEBALL
ALL-FAA FIRST TEAM— Charlie Lafreniere ’23 ALL-FAA SECOND TEAM— Ali Hood ’24 ALL-FAA HONORABLE MENTION— Nevin Belanger ’23
WRESTLING
2023 NHSCA ACADEMIC ALL-AMERICANS—Chris Murphy ’23, Zahir McLean-Felix ’23, Joey Iamunno ’24, Xavier Giles ’24, JT Schneider ’24, Harry Kittredge ’26, Ryan Schneider ’26 NATIONAL PREP ALL-AMERICANS— Joey Iamunno ’24, Xavier Giles ’24, Nate Taylor ’24, Steve Burrell ’23, Chris Murphy ’23 ALL-NEPSAC FIRST TEAM— Harry Kittredge ’26, Brady Kaupp ’25, JT Schneider ’24, Ben Zuckerman ’25, Joey Iamunno ’24, Ronnie Christolin ’23, Xavier Giles ’24, Nate Taylor ’24, Steven Burrell ’23, Chris Murphy ’23, April Torres ’24 ALL-NEPSAC HONORABLE MENTION— Joseph Stoerzinger ’24, Tyler Shea ’23, Ryan Schneider ’26, Zahir McLean-Felix ’23 ALL-FAA FIRST TEAM— Niall Glynn ’25, Harry Kittredge ’26, JT Schneider ’24, Brady Kaupp ’25, Ben Zuckerman ’25, Jasper Dermont ’25, Tyler Shea ’23, Ryan Schneider ’26, Xavier Giles ’24, Zahir McLean-Felix ’23, Nate Taylor ’24 ALL-FAA HONORABLE MENTION— Joseph Stoerzinger ’24
BOY S B A S K E T B A L L
ALL-NEPSAC CLASS C— Joel Nash ’25, Matt Maged ’23 ALL-NEPSAC CLASS C HONORABLE MENTION— Tyler Vassel ’24 ALL-FAA SECOND TEAM— Joel Nash ’25 ALL-FAA HONORABLE MENTION— Matt Maged ’23
GIRLS BASKETBALL
ALL-NEPSAC CLASS B FIRST TEAM— Molly Keaveney ’24, Ryley Tate-Padian ’25 ALL-NEPSAC CLASS B HONORABLE MENTION— LyNeta Brand ’23, Cheyenne Brand ’25 ALL-FAA SECOND TEAM— Molly Keaveney ’23, Ryley Tate-Padian ’25 ALL-FAA HONORABLE MENTION— LyNeta Brand ’23
BOY S S Q UA S H
ALL-FAA FIRST TEAM— Eddie Xue ’24, Jacob Robinson ’24, Jack Kendall ’24, Owen Hecker ’26 ALL-FAA HONORABLE MENTION— Oscar Hecker ’25
GIRLS SQUASH
ALL-NEPSAC— Riley Meyer ’24, Alexis Campbell ’26 ALL-FAA FIRST TEAM— Adelle Rubinchik ’23, Riley Meyer ’24, Alexis Campbell ’26 ALL-FAA HONORABLE MENTION— Jordan Moss ’25
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Each year our youngest artists produce a beautiful art show for families and community members. This year the theme was the rainforest and each student in grades PreK-4 submitted two pieces of artwork including paintings, prints, drawings, collages, sculpture, and ceramics. The McGrath Gallery dazzled with their work. Lower School
Art and Talent Shows Each year the Lower School students light up as they take the stage for the Talent Show, showcasing their passions and activities that they pursue outside of school. From musical acts, to magic shows, group acts to solo performances, their teachers, peers, families, and friends were wowed by the skills that the lower schoolers presented on the stage.
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fourth grade
Music Revue This spring the fourth graders put on an energetic performance of the Musical Revue! Split into four groups, they performed songs from the likes of Matilda, School of Rock, Charlie Brown, and The Sound of Music. Their performances brought laughs, smiles, and even a few tears of joy from their families and friends in the crowd. This moment would not be possible without the help and support of all of their teachers and the family volunteers. Each year, the Fourth Grade Musical is one of the many wonderful ways in which these leaders wrap up the year and their time in the Lower School.
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With the image of a giant peach looming in the background, middle school students took the stage and put on three tremendous performances of James and the Giant Peach Jr. Throughout the second half of the school year they came together as a unit to learn and memorize their lines, songs, choreography, and help design the set for the play. The combination of these elements is what brought the story to life. Congratulations middle schoolers on an incredible show!
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The Addams Family - School Edition -
A New Musical
This year the Upper School performing arts department broke tradition and decided to, in the words of Theater Director Kellie Comer “go big or go home” and produce two musicals. After hearing from several students what a fantastic show they thought The Addams Family would be to put on, Comer - originally concerned about the unique vocal range of the characters - gave in. Once committed the students took ownership. “They're definitely trying to make it their own which is really great and what you always want to see. You want them to have fun performing and think about their character and not entirely focus on memorizing where to go. We have one ensemble member who has made her costume from scratch,” said Comer. The three night and one matinee performance was a hit and the theater department saw record student interest in participating in the spring musical.
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Kindergarten
Outdoor Classroom Every spring GFA’s Kindergarten classes collaborate on a project spurred by that group’s particular interest and this year the grade was filled with builders who loved to be outside. While spending time in GFA’s garden, our younger learners found themselves looking for places to sit and write, often grabbing empty buckets to create makeshift desks and seats. Their teachers Ms. Mack and Mrs. Schneider wondered with them: “What would it take to fix this up?” The students took the bait. GFA’s Kindergartners designed, sourced, and installed seating in the garden, came up with a new bilingual labeling system for all of the plants, made-over a shed with solar-powered lighting, and created an outdoor learning oasis for the use of students in grades PreK-12. While they had ideas of what would be useful for their Lower School classmates yet spent time interviewing GFA Grounds Manager, Tom Barry, and the sustainability team from all divisions so that the new garden classroom could include features useful for all ages and community members. For example, the newly installed lending library for garden related books includes picture books for younger students and reference books for older students as well.
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Like everything in GFA’s Lower School the importance of play seeped into this project. The students imagined a sunflower house and with the help of Mr. Barry created a supported circle of sunflowers with a small door that will welcome them back in September and allow a place for reflection and joy. “Mindfulness is a very important part of our Kindergarten curriculum,” said lead Kindergarten teacher Katie Mack. “During this process we spoke a lot about how peaceful it is in the garden and how calming the outdoors can be. One of my favorite features is a nature weaving station filled with natural fibers – a first-grader could start weaving one morning and a ninth-grader could pick up where they left off after lunch.” Colorful wind chimes and other artistic touches add to the whimsey of the garden. And while the benefits of the outdoor garden classroom for the GFA community are clear, there is also a wealth of research that supports the importance of learning in nature for children. A 2022 study titled “A Systematic Review Protocol to Identify the Key Benefits and Efficacy of Nature-Based Learning in Outdoor Educational Settings” found that in the top seven benefits to outdoor learning were better behavior, ownership of learning, and better teaching practices. Equally important, this special project showed some of our youngest learners that they can come up with an idea to enrich life at the school and that grown ups will support them to make it a reality. Our Kindergartners should be proud of their garden and their agency.
Here are a few things you can do in the outdoor garden • • • • • • •
Enjoy snack on the new picnic tables built by Kindergartners (find their names hidden underneath) Listen to a story (choose one from the Little Library) Teach a lesson in the Learning Center (there is a white board--markers are in the newly organized shed. Can't see because it is too dark? Turn on the solar powered light!) Spend time in the Mindfulness area and do some nature weaving Explore the plants in the garden - use the stones to identify what is there (they are written in English and Spanish). Have Morning Meeting in the garden - a circle of tree stumps will work the same as your classroom rug area! Spot a clay wind chime made in Art
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Rethinking Math to be a Positive Sum Game By Louis Steiner Chair of Mathematics Department
This article was originally published in Moffly magazine’s Educational Guide insert and republished here with their expressed permission.
Take a moment to think back to your experiences as a math student. How did you feel about yourself? For many of us, there are likely a few noteworthy similarities: the teacher presenting mathematical ideas at the front of the class, students diligently (or not so diligently) copying down notes and example problems. There was homework from a textbook and maybe some group work sprinkled along the way. The class parameters were also likely tightly controlled. The teacher served as the source of mathematical knowledge, students were expected to learn and replicate skills through predetermined curricula, and there was an expectation that you follow the rules and procedures precisely as described by the teacher. Although these methods were effective for some, many others left math classes feeling they didn’t have what it takes to be “good at math” under those parameters. If being good at math meant repeating algorithms and memorizing formulas, is it any wonder that some people believed, and still believe, that they just “aren’t a math person?” When I was a math student, there was an already well-worn admonition stating, “you won’t always have a calculator with you.” At one time, that was undoubtedly true, and the well-meaning intent behind it was to remind students that they needed to know how to do math without the assistance of technology. In the world of smartphones, laptops, and WiFi, though, how often will we actually be without a calculator? A quick look through the App Store on an iPhone reveals many math help apps, graphing utilities, and programs describing the steps for solving most problems students would be asked in a high school math classroom. Though math could always be found in the world, its presence and impact are increasingly impossible to ignore. Big data, AI, and instantaneous statistics, just to name a few, put math front and center in day-to-day life. summer 2023 | 47
Much like the reach and accessibility of technology have evolved, the question in front of us has changed. No longer is the focus on how to use math without the assistance of technology. Now, the primary question has become – what does knowing and leveraging mathematics mean in our ever-changing world? We need to ensure our students, all of our students, have the tools and agility necessary to practice math effectively. Mathematics is, after all, the discipline through which we give quantifiable structure to the unknown and analyze and interpret the world around us, whether in personal finances or in modeling major questions of societal significance. Upending Traditional Assumptions
Several assumptions underpin a “traditional” understanding of math that muddy the waters of using math flexibly in today’s world, if they ever held at all. The first assumption is that we must learn or be taught essential ideas out of context before we can apply, interpret, or extend them meaningfully. According to this theory, how could someone analyze a linear relationship without first learning the critical aspects of what it means for something to be “linear.” First, learn the definitions, formulas, or algorithms. Then, dive into problem-solving. If we hold that assumption to be accurate, then students (and, by extension, all people) can only solve problems and engage mathematical ideas for which they’ve been primed. If you don’t understand an idea early, you risk being “behind” for the long term. The second assumption that many people carry well into adulthood is that mathematics is most effectively understood as a series of procedures for arriving at desired answers. According to this view, since mathematics contains formulas and procedures for solving problems, one needs only memorize the formulas and where/how they are applied to use these tools effectively. The math lessons you remembered earlier were very likely structured this way. Those previous assumptions lead directly to the conclusion that one either understands or doesn’t understand math. After all, if math is a se48 | www.gfacademy.org
ries of procedures, you can use them or you can’t. You’re a math person or not. These attitudes persist long past individual math courses. Some of you reading this right now have probably thought at various times, and maybe still do, that “I’m not a math person” or “I wasn’t good at math.” Perhaps the most visible manifestation of these beliefs is the early tracking of students into leveled math courses. Once in these groupings, students are often locked into that track for several years, if not their entire middle and high school careers. Fortunately, research and trends in math education have systematically questioned those assumptions. Jo Boaler, a mathematics education professor at Stanford University, specifically addresses the necessity of changing the “have it or don’t” attitude surrounding math. In her book Mathematical Mindsets, Boaler describes how narrowly-focused, procedural questions of mathematics unintentionally encourage students to adopt a fixed mindset about their math abilities and discourage students from taking the academic risks necessary for stretching understanding and learning from mistakes. Instead, she argues, cultivating a growth-oriented mindset requires students to engage in rich mathematical tasks with multiple entry points and possible solution strategies, promoting flexibility with numbers and emphasizing the power of mistakes and struggle when problem-solving. Neuroscience research has long held that human brains are adaptable and capable of growth and change, an effect called brain plasticity, when challenged and holding a growth-oriented mindset. Promoting the power of mistakes and struggle in learning requires providing students with challenging work that pushes them out of their comfort zone into what Boaler calls disequilibrium and requires us to abandon labels such as “not a math person” or “not good at math.” Others in mathematics education have researched related phenomena. Mike Flynn, Director of Mathematics Leadership Programs at Mount Holyoke College, notes the power of focusing on meaning-making and mathematical reasoning in students as young as kindergarten in his book Beyond Answers.
“Centering problemsolving, impactful applications, and adapting to meet students where they are are all critical aspects of preparing students to use math meaningfully in their future.” Louis Steiner Chair of Mathematics Department
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He emphasizes the difference between understanding math (explaining how you solved a problem and why you chose the process you did) and performing mathematical work (i.e., just answering using subtraction). Research on brain plasticity indicates that emphasis on similar practices in older grades would have similar powerful effects on understanding through their educational careers. In Building Thinking Classrooms in Mathematics, Peter Liljedahl emphasizes teaching practices that promote deep thinking in students. These include grading based on data rather than numbers and providing students with asynchronous feedback to maintain problem-solving flow when tackling questions beyond what they have seen before. These run in direct contrast to the traditional assumptions described earlier. As the world and technology around us change at an increasing rate, so does the math required to interpret and understand it. Nowhere is this more evident than in data’s increasing prevalence and availability. Today’s learners have access to enormous amounts of data nearly instantaneously, but that access comes with inherent benefits and challenges. How many times has each of us encountered statistics that, while technically correct, encourage incomplete or misleading conclusions? Or seen a chart or poorly labeled or selectively formatted graph from which misleading or downright false information seemed to jump off the page? Not only do we need to understand and interpret data to navigate through today’s world, but we also need to be able to evaluate it to separate the good from the bad, the biased from the unbiased, and the suspect from the reliable. Jo Boaler argued in favor of incorporating data literacy into mathematics courses on an episode of the Freakonomics podcast titled “America’s Math Curriculum Doesn’t Add Up.” Unfortunately, data literacy and statistics are often siloed into their own courses and offered as the alternative for students who are seen as not ready for calculus in their senior year. But what does that setup communicate about the value of statistics relative to calculus? This is not to say, by any means, that calculus is not a valuable field of math in its own right. Understanding and interpreting models of many contexts, from economics to astrophysics to climate modeling, requires calculus. The point, instead, is the highly unequal and siloed view of statistics within curricula. Changing the Parameters to Meet Students Where They Are
What, then, does it mean to develop and sustain a math 50 | www.gfacademy.org
program that prepares students for the demands of their future? Like many math problems, there is no single “right answer.” Here are the choices and priorities we’ve adopted in the math department at Greens Farms Academy. Integrate data analysis, statistics, and probability into the curriculum at every level. When brought out from the silo of statistics-only courses, students learn and appreciate that critical analysis of information is vital in all contexts, whether reading data from a graph, recognizing missing or misleading information, or modeling real-world phenomena using regressional analysis. Make space for students to pursue paths of mathematical inquiry that are meaningful to them. The typical sequence of skills and courses in schools leaves out impactful and powerful mathematical ideas that are hidden in plain sight around us – number theory applied to encryption and digital security, linear algebra used throughout computer science and computer networks, and trigonometry as applied to medical imaging, just to name a few. Given the space to pursue questions of genuine interest, as we do in inquiry and advanced inquiry classes, students not only apply the mathematical habits built in previous courses but also develop profound understanding in an area they would not have experienced otherwise. And they teach us a thing or two about math in the world. Build multiple intentional pathways for acceleration or changing tracks. The first opportunity for students to be in different math courses occurs in 6th grade with an accelerated course in the Foundations of Algebraic Thinking (previously Pre-Algebra), but no student’s entire mathematical future should be determined at the end of their fifth-grade year. Emphasizing a growth mindset means recognizing that no two students progress mathematically at the same pace. So, students can change course as they are willing to accept the challenge and ready mathematically, whether by moving into an honors section for the next year or accelerating ahead with a summer geometry course. Prioritize meaningful problem-solving, collaboration, and debate in classrooms. Few problems encountered in a math curriculum, and fewer still facing the world, can be tackled in only one way. Rather than focusing on “the right way” to solve problems, students actively discuss methods, question their peers, and pursue multiple strategies to learn to recognize the “connective tissue” between mathematical ideas, regard-
less of the track they are on. When faced with a challenging question in unfamiliar contexts, they leverage those insights to begin the worthwhile and difficult work of tackling those challenges. Our model emphasizes the process of solving problems and celebrating the variety of potential approaches communicates to students that there is not only one way to be “good at math.” Everyone has access to high-level problem-solving. Students participate in thinking practices that boost their confidence, center resilience for overcoming initial setbacks, and highlight the unique insights that everyone brings to the table. Therefore, all students can recognize what makes them “good at math” in their unique way. Centering problem-solving, impactful applications, and adapting to meet students where they are are all critical aspects of preparing students to use math meaningfully in their future. It’s also worth noting that, although creative problem-solving in the service of discovering new tools and methods is valuable and central, direct instruction of content is also essential and invaluable at times. Not every new concept must be discovered through exploration to reap the benefits of thinking classrooms and collaboration. We expect students to understand the connections between ideas and use the math they are learning correctly and effectively. More tools and problem-solving strategies mean richer experiences and deeper understanding. After all, as the saying goes, “when all you have is a hammer, everything looks like a nail.”
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May Term five years later GFA’s May Term program, now heading into its fifth year, is pure magic. Upper School students and faculty members alike revel in the opportunity to take a deep dive into non-traditional, non-graded courses after second semester classes wrap for the year. Over the seven day period students are grouped with peers across the division, taught by teachers they might not typically interact with, and encouraged to get off campus as a part of regular field trips. While there is a levity in the air during May Term there is also deep focus and concentration happening. Initially the concept was proposed when the school made the decision to shift away from final exams. “My sense is that we wanted to find a way to end the school year on an experiential and joyful note rather than on cumulative tests that would quickly be in the rearview mirror,” explained Chris Meatto, Upper School History teacher and the incoming Director of May Term. Over time, the seven day program has become very mission and core-value aligned, he said: “these classes are outstanding places for inquiry, for belonging to be cultivated, and for students to think about what purpose-driven work looks like.”
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From learning “The Basics of Asian Cooking” to a deep read of “Moby Dick” on the shores of the Long Island Sound, Upper School students choose five courses (from dozens!) that they would be excited to spend their final days of school immersed in. Surprisingly, advisors report that given the wide array of students and faculty interest each class is filled and active. So what makes May Term so magical?
At a time of the school year, when adolescent minds turn to summer plans, the reinjection of enthusiasm and engagement ends the term on a high note. The courses are designed to tap into faculty interests, the non-graded nature of the courses makes it lower stakes for students, the rate of field trips gets students off campus, and mixing up students 54 | www.gfacademy.org
in grade levels are all part of the recipe, says Meatto. Going forward, “there are also real opportunities to get students involved earlier with pitching and designing classes and tapping into students as partners. I am excited to work with everyone to keep identifying what makes May Term so special, distilling those characteristics and finding ways to bring “that magic” into the general curriculum,” he said. Grappling with these interesting topics and conversations for a condensed period of time gets us in a distinctly different rhythm. As we continue to look forward as a school and think about what makes our experience singular there is room to further discover what this program brings to GFA.
Alumni
“
There are also real opportunities to get students involved earlier with pitching and designing classes and tapping into students as partners. I am excited to work with everyone to keep identifying what makes May Term so special, distilling those characteristics and finding ways to bring “that magic” into the general curriculum.
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ALUMNI
Senior Transition
As our GFA seniors move from students to the alumni ranks, they are treated to an event featuring fellow graduates. This year Mr. Whelan hosted a panel that included three recent graduates who discussed their experience in college, their early work years, how they found that job, and gave advice to the soon-to-be members of the alumni community. Special thanks to this year’s panelists; Luiz (Duda) Voldman ’18, Aaron Miller ’17, and Michaela Cohen ’17.
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Centennial s e v i ch r A e th m o Fr
In advance of GFA’s upcoming Centennial in 2025, we are taking a look back. Please email Ana Holwell, Director of Alumni Relations, at aholwell@gfacademy.org if you recognize anyone in these archive photos.
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May 19 – 20, 2023 The, at times, torrential rain could not dampen the spirits of alumni who returned to campus for Reunion on Saturday, May 20. With over 100 people in attendance, including alumni from the 1960s through the 2020s and current and former faculty, the goodwill, laughter, and cheer were abundant. Highlights included the presentation of the Distinguished Alumni Award to Dr. Robert Capodilupo ’82, celebrating long-time history teacher, Ian Campbell’s, retirement after 30 years at GFA, and the Class of ’83 celebratory dinner after the event. Please save May 18 for next year’s festivities!
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Dr. Robert Capodilupo
’82
Dr. Robert Capodilupo ’82 was this year’s Distinguished Alumni Award recipient. Dr. Capodilupo is the Director of the Congestive Heart Failure Program as well as the Director of Non-invasive Cardiology at Catholic Medical Center in Manchester, NH. He is presently Vice President of the Medical Staff at Catholic Medical Center and sits on the Board of the Physician Practice Association as well as the Medical Executive Committee. He earned his undergraduate degree in physics from Clark University, MD degree from New York Medical, completed his medical residency at Boston University, and fellowship in Cardiology at Dartmouth. He is the past Director of Clinical Research for the New England Heart Institute and serves as the local Principal Investigator for a number of national and international medication and device trials. He has been practicing for over 25 years. Dr. Capodilupo, or Cappy, as he is known to his GFA peers, attended Reunion in May with his wife, Anne, daughter, Madeleine, who he recently completed the Boston Marathon with, and his brother, David Capodilupo ’79, another distinguished alum in his own right. 60 | www.gfacademy.org
Robert was nominated by multiple friends who noted that his devotion to his patients is unsurpassed. One alum even credited Robert with saving his life. Rich MacDonough ’83 noted that “On December 29, 2019, at 4:02 pm in the afternoon I became one of his (Robert’s) heart patients when I was admitted to Catholic Medical Center in Manchester, NH, having had a heart attack and in need of a quadruple bypas. It struck me all of a sudden that I likely was in Dr. Robert Capodilupo’s ER. Between nitroglycerine tablets, I pecked out a text to Cappy. He didn’t even take 60 seconds to get back to me and was on the case. It is who he is and what he does. Not only is Cappy blazing trails in cardiac care for people in need, but he also does what he always did at GFA. He makes things better for others everywhere, raising awareness and even running point to donate defibrillators for the Millenium Running Club and its charity events. Not surprisingly, Cappy, a runner himself, saved a man who had collapsed near the finish line a couple of years back. He is fully committed to saving and improving lives. It is what he does and who he is.”
Christopher Piasecki
’04
Christopher Piasecki ’04 loved his time at GFA and credits it with helping shape the person he is today. Yet, it was another milestone that inspired him to co-found the Sad Dads Club in May 2022. When Chris and his wife Sarah’s daughter Isabelle arrived stillborn in 2018, he turned his personal trauma into an online community for other men grappling with similar losses. The group hosts meetings, an online stories platform, and maintains social media accounts all with the intention of bringing an outlet to other fathers dealing with loss. Piasecki was new to grief but not new to the power of community. Piasecki started at GFA in 7th grade and credits former Upper School English teacher Elizabeth Clearly and Varsity Tennis Coach Paul Groves for teaching him the value of tough love. “Some of my fondest memories of GFA are of the boys tennis team. We were blessed with talent from top to bottom. In an interview last year, Paul Groves, reflected on that talent, and thinking of it still makes me laugh. When asked about the team that stood out in his memory, Groves said, “I think it was my 2003 undefeated tennis team that won New Englands. We won a few
times, but we hardly ever practiced. We barnstormed. We played the four teams that won public school championships and beat them all. They were just great, fun guys and were an exceptional team.” And he was right, we did have a lot of fun!” he said of his former coach and team. Like so many Dragons, Piasecki found lifelong friends on Beachside Avenue. “My closest friends are Matt Garofalo ’05, Mickey Gallagher ’04, William Weeks ’04, Carlos Guzman ’04, Marshall Wheeler ’03, and Chris Innes ’03. These six, as well as their families, have been a constant pillar of support for me since middle school.” Piasecki played tennis at Fairfield University serving as their assistant coach for two years before attending Suffolk University in Boston for law school. After joining an early-stage technology start-up that was acquired in 2016, he and his wife moved to Maine and are currently building a house in Yarmouth. He is now at Bath Savings Trust Company, overseeing all aspects of their estate administration, investment management, and client development. summer 2023 | 61
“That connection inspired us to create a community whose aim is to eliminate alienation for loss dads as they navigate their grief journey. Feeling alone as you grieve is dangerous, and there isn’t anything out there, that we knew of, that catered to dads who’ve lost children. We knew we could create a unique, and necessary, space – a community. Sad Dads Club (SDC) isn’t a traditional “club,” it is a community. You don’t choose to join this “club,” but you can choose to join the community,” he said.
Between these milestones, and surrounded by the family created at GFA, Piasecki and Sarah lost their daughter on July 21, 2018. “Meeting her, holding her, taking pictures with her, and then immediately having to say goodbye was, and continues to be, really complicated for me,” he explained. Finding other fathers who have dealt with the loss of a baby was a source of strength and vulnerability for Piasecki. He was fortunate to connect with his future co-founders and they became an outlet for one another.
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“From an early age men are often conditioned to feel that it isn’t ok to be emotionally vulnerable,” he explained. “When they do open up, and that openness is met with support from their peers, a bond is formed. We are creating a supportive space that invites openness and vulnerability – a space where you feel certain that you’re not the only one struggling.” The 501(c)(3) launched formally in the spring of 2022 and now includes a website, Instagram account, and a Discord channel for community members to connect between meetings, and will, in the future offer, in-person retreats. This past spring, NFL player, Ryan Kelly, mentioned how he was able to find support after the loss of his daughter, at 19
weeks, through the SDC’s virtual meetings in an interview with People Magazine, which has brought some much-needed attention to navigating this type of loss. The group hosts twice-monthly Loss Dads Open Hours on Zoom and a new website feature called “My Child, My Story” where men and women are encouraged to share their uninterrupted story. The group recognizes that grief takes many forms. “It is important to note that there is no pressure to speak in meetings. We constantly get messages from parents saying they have been attending with their cameras off and simply listening, just to remind themselves they aren’t alone,” he said. As fellow alum, Steve Bloom ’06 and his wife mourned the loss of their stillborn son, Gus, in November 2022, he turned to Chris for support. "I remembered reading about Chris's family's loss on social media and reached out to him. Even though we had not spoken since high school Chris responded immediately,” Bloom said. “His unwavering support as I grieve has been so meaningful. Chris invited me to the Sad Dads Club, where I have been able to connect with other dads who have had similar experiences. I am forever grateful for Chris and for this community. There is nothing else like it - a safe space for grieving men to connect."
Piasecki offers advice for anyone helping someone navigate a similar loss. “Be patient, be present, and have no expectations. This level of grief doesn’t go away in a week, a month, or even years. You have to remember that your loved one is likely going to be a changed person, and it is going to take a long time for them to figure out what their new normal looks like,” he said. “We often hear stories about people not knowing what to say, so they end up saying nothing. I have come to learn that people saying nothing doesn’t mean they don’t care, but that silence is what can make this journey feel incredibly lonely.” And finally, “reach out with no expectation of a response. Anything you do to make life more manageable for your loved ones who are going through this process goes a long way.” Visit their website at saddadsclub. com for resources or follow them on Instagram @sad.dads. club.
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Class Notes... 1969
1974
Carlysle Young
Allen Hardon
One of the benefits of surviving the pandemic Covid-free is that my northern California garden, which was neglected these past few years, is thriving. This year, I put in my veggie garden in May and it is already providing me with bountiful produce such as lettuce, kale, parsley & new potatoes by Mid-June. I finally tackled ripping out one of my street-side succulent gardens which was becoming quite overgrown and now I am going to stock up on some nice plant specimens from the San Francisco Succulent and Cactus Society Sale in Golden Gate Park and finally re-plant some new “eye-candy” that will replace the ones that were removed because they were crowding-out my Euphorbia ammak “Variegata” and my Aloe marlothii. My other front garden, by my goat pasture, is getting tons of compliments from passers-by right now, but I can only say that it’s thanks to the heavy storms we all endured in early January when I usually withhold extra water from my succulents.
Greetings from Massachusetts where we find ourselves as usual when it is too hot in Arizona! As always, if you are in or near Pocasset, MA, please look us up and come for a visit! We had a great visit with Clay Gates ’73 in April when we were in the Tampa area for college hockey’s Frozen Four. My wife, Laura, launched a website for her custom tote bag business. Check it out at www.laurahardon.com. I consider myself semi-retired and looking forward to developing my direct mail consulting practice in the years ahead.
1973
Members of the Class of 1973 enjoyed being back on campus for their 50th Reunion in May and kept the fun going with a group dinner afterward. 64 | www.gfacademy.org
1976 Barbara Wyckoff
I’m living in Leesburg, VA, and enjoying all the outdoor recreation opportunities! I’m continuing my life coaching practice, now with a focus on hospice care and bereavement. The work as a peer recovery specialist is rewarding as always. With retirement, comes visiting grandchildren. Avery is almost a year old and Joujie is six. Travel is also key to my existence. I believe home is where the heart is, wherever that finds you in the world.
1978
friends/Dragonistas! With a college lacrosse player in the house, we are still getting to games and hope to run into Rich MacDonough ’83 again! Professionally, I continue to learn Kenneth Kaufman I reached a mini-milestone during an April road trip; I’ve and grow every day in my new role as CEO of OpenBiome, now visited more than half the counties (or equivalent) in a microbiome health research organization. I’m grateful the United States. to be working with researchers in low and middle-income countries to tackle complex health issues, such as mental health and malnutrition. Libby Tritschler I love living near GFA and am happy selling real estate in town. My three children are all off being adults and we are 1983 looking forward to our first wedding this fall. My son Fred and his fiance Cassidy will be getting married on September Richard MacDonough After a heck of a long 40+ year time playing and coaching 30 at the Hunt Club. Exciting times are ahead! lacrosse, I’ve started broadcasting college and high school games throughout New England. I’ll be doing the men’s 1979 NESCAC semifinals and finals at Tufts University. All four Juliana Smith teams are ranked in the national Top 20. I covered the womI’m living in Southport and enjoying my space. I’ve gotten en’s quarterfinals at #1 ranked Middlebury last weekend. It together with a few GFA alumni including Wendy Weaver all started at GFA in 1980 with Coach Ed Craver. He and I are Chaix ’79, Sarah Bryant ’82, and Craig Heatley ’79, which still friends. It’s just the continuation and perhaps capstone, has been so fun. but I still coach goalies when I can. I also have 11 players I coached in the high school class of 2024 committed to D1 1982 teams such as Villanova, Loyola, Bryant, Hofstra, Bucknell, and the Air Force Academy, among others. Great young Sarah Banks people. Finally, I’m doing written and podcast content for Our daughter Hannah graduated from McGill with a degree the New England Lacrosse Journal. Who knows where we in Biology and Hispanic Studies; our son Bernie graduated go but roads are for journeys. from Fieldston and is heading to Northwestern University in the fall; I’m still teaching English at Riverdale Country Deering Rose is the owner of Chaos2Calm Home EditSchool, and Howie wraps up science at Fieldston. Come ing (home organizing, estate sales, move management, aucsee us in Yonkers! tions, staging, and home cleanouts) and the Coastal Gallery Foundation (a 501c auction gallery). She lives in Westport Julie O’Brien with her mother, Barbara Rose ’51, and her 14-year-old son. My husband, David, and I are enjoying our new empty nest lifestyle - giving me more time to reconnect with old GFA 01
02
04
01
Ciddy Young’s ’69 garden and goats
02
Members of the Class of 1973 after their 50th Reunion
03
Barbara Wycoff-Baird’s ’76 daughter and granddaughter at Disney World
04
Wendy Weaver Chaix ’79, Sarah Bryant ’82, Tracy Sachs, Craig Heatley ’79, and Juliana Reiss ’79 enjoying a dinner out. Sarah Banks ’82 and her family at her daughter’s graduation from McGill
05
03
05
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1984
06
Sarah Shea
Please allow me to brag about my son, John Kearney, for a sec: John won first place for Outstanding Student Choreography at the National High School Dance Festival in Pittsburgh in March. His piece, entitled “You’ll Be Happy,” won top honors out of 200 student-choreographed pieces submitted. He choreographed the 6.5-minute-long piece for seven dancers and himself, all part of the pre-professional dance company he’s a four-year member of, Jefferson Dancers, here in Portland, Oregon. He decided all the moves, the music, and the lighting, and worked with the company’s costumer on the costumes. Hearing John’s name announced as the winner was one of the greatest moments of pure joy in my life! 1985
07
06 Katherine Sloan
Snedaker ’85 and Laurie Raveis ’85 at GFA in June
Katherine Sloan Snedaker
Laurie Raveis ’85 and I spent a few hours roaming around the GFA campus in June. I never knew there was an attic that ran the length of the building! We went into old classrooms and recalled funny moments and had a lot of laughs. We walked over to the new theater and talked about life since graduating from the Farm and how much our years at GFA still mean to us.
07 Dr. Rebecca
Safran ’87 and a nestling 08 Members of the
Class of ’88 before their 35th reunion.
1987 Rebecca Safran
Becca is a professor of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the University of Colorado, Boulder where she and her research team study the evolution of biodiversity. She and her family live in Boulder, Colorado, and enjoy cooking and gardening projects. Her oldest son Noah graduated from high school in 2022 and is now in trade school in Arizona. Her younger son Aaron is going to be a junior in high school next fall and enjoys anything related to skateboarding and art! Please get in touch if you are ever in Boulder! 1988 Yvette Yoon
A group from the Class of 1988 had a fun gathering before their 35th Reunion in May.
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08
1990
2001
Stephanie Gisondi-Little
Michelle Levi Noe is leaving her role as Director of
I had a great time meeting up in San Juan Capistrano with Michelle Lin Cieplucha ’90 and Rachael Stracka ’90 after a too-many years-later initial So Cal get-together! We had a great grown-up ladies’ brunch and swore not to wait until our kids are another eight years older to do it again. Smiles all around. Hope everyone else is doing great!
Marketing and Communications at GFA in July and moving with her family to Richmond, Virginia. Nothing has been more special than watching their three kids pal around with Dragon offspring and schoolmates including Adare Linsdsay Kiely ’01, North Shutsharwan ’01, Alex Petisi ’01, Gillian Jayson Graves ’95, Laura Jayson ’99, Willy Jayon ’01, and Lyman Richardson ’04 in Rowayton and beyond over the past six years. I think it is fair to say after six years at 35 Beachside, Michelle is finally graduating from GFA.
1993 William Seabrook
Billy Seabrook and his wife, Kathy, celebrated their daughter, Ashley’s graduation from GFA in June and their son, Quinn’s, transition into 7th grade. 1994
Edwin Thomas
On a perfect Midsummer’s evening in Yorkshire, I met up with Charlie Hall ‘92 for pretty much the first time since we graduated. Charlie’s band The War on Drugs performed to an adoring crowd in the beautiful Georgian piazza of The Piece Hall in Halifax (UK), and we managed to spend some time together before the show. It was amazing to catch up after so many years and reminisce about our time playing in the GFA Jazz Band together. 1996
Margaret Moore
I am still living in Jackson Hole, WY where I have set up a busy art appraisal business, Artemis Art Advisory. I enjoy using my love of research and experience working in galleries and auction houses to help clients navigate the art world and discover the value of the objects in their lives. I feel lucky that I can do this while being based in the beautiful Tetons. I am spending more time during the “mud seasons” at my apartment in Brooklyn, NY, and enjoy keeping in touch with members of our class. Let me know if you find yourself out West! 2003 Gregory Swain
Brian Reich
Brian is the Director of Speechwriting for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. He leads the speechwriting and editorial division, which crafts and edits speeches, talking points, op-eds, articles, and letters for the Secretary, Deputy Secretary, and other Administration leaders.
09
2002
I am currently living in Bozeman, Montana working as an artist, musician, and cook. In my time here I have created artwork for skis, posters, and canvas. I played as a percussionist in the Symphony, played drums in a touring rock band, and I currently host a weekly open mic at the local bar. My evenings are spent on the line in the kitchen, creating nightly dinner and dessert specials. I have been involved with coaching and competing in martial arts and jiu-jitsu for the past eight years.
10 09 Billy Seabrook ’93 and Kathy Seabrook’s children,
Ashley ’23 and Quinn ’29. 10 Edwin Thomas ’94 and Charlie Hall ’92 reunited
in Halifax
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11
2005
12
Evan Winsor
I’ve been enjoying a healthy tour schedule playing with Josh Turner all over the country and regularly on the Grand Ole Opry. We just played Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN for 60,000 people for CMA Fest sharing the stage with Luke Bryan, Tim McGraw, Alabama, & Dierks Bentley. I got married in April to Hillary Klug, who is a fiddle player and buck dancer, at a small ceremony in Fairfield, CT with family. I’m looking forward to heading to Europe in July with Josh & band including Norway, for my first time, for a festival. PHOTO - Evan Winsor ’05 married Hillary Klug in April at a small ceremony in Fairfield, CT.
13
2008
Margaret Cissel
14
Steve Swett ’08 and I welcomed John Cissel Swett (named after my father) on May 18th (weighing 9lb 10oz!). Our daughter, Poppy, is 20 months old so we are in it, but it’s been a lot of fun so far. William McCalpin
11
Evan Winsor ’05 married Hillary Klug in April at a small ceremony in Fairfield, CT.
12
Former Middle School Director John Cissel holding newborn John Cissel Swett (son of Margaret Cissel ’08 and Steve Swett ’08)
13
Donna Matte, Celeste Matte ’18, and Jon Matte at Celeste’s graduation from Saint Michael’s College Graduate School in May.
14
Loraine Sievers’ new book: An UNwilling Spy: A Cold War Novel Set at the United Nations.
I recently started a new job as Head of Product at an early-stage healthcare tech company based in NYC. I’m still living in Brooklyn Heights, around the corner from Jenny Galvin ’08, Paige Auerbach ’08, and Jack Miner ’07. It was fun to see so many familiar faces back at the Farm for Reunion in May and I hope to see more of you soon in the city! Gordon Thompson
We have been happily living in Greenwich now for a year. It’s good to be back in CT after our tours in NYC and NJ. I definitely prefer the suburbs to the city. Out here, I bike and run to work, play rugby and tennis, and take the kids to the beach a couple of times a week. I’m keeping very busy, but always carve out time for friends - if any of you are nearby, let me know. Work is fun too; I love Point72 and have been there for over five years now. Some of my coworkers have kids at GFA - it’s strange growing up and being a parent, but remembering the perspective of being a kid, not so long ago. 2010 Andrew Glicklich and Gabrielle Fromer welcomed
a daughter, Nora, in March. 2018
Celeste Matte
After graduating from Saint Michael’s College in 2022 with a B.A. in Art & Design and Elementary Education with an endorsement in Early Childhood Education, I continued my education at Saint
Mike’s where I just graduated in May 2023 with a Master of Arts in Teaching degree and additional licensure in Special Education. I am now living in Essex Junction, Vermont, and I will be starting a full-time teaching position as a fifth and sixth-grade Special Educator at a local PreK-8 school for the 2023-2024 school year! 2019
Griffin Seyfried
Faculty/Former Faculty Loraine Sievers, the former 4th and 5th-grade
French teacher, has a new book out: An UNwilling Spy: a Cold War Novel Set at the United Nations. It’s a definite “beach read”, but also includes many authentic details and makes full use of the amazing UN Building as the perfect setting for a thriller.
I am thrilled to be moving out to Montana and working on program outreach and analytics for Montana State University.
IN MEMORIAM E D WA R D J . B U T N E R I I I C L A S S O F 1 9 74 Edward J. Butner III of Trumbull, passed away on June 24, 2023 in St. Vincent’s Medical Center. EJ was born in Norwalk, CT and grew up in Westport, CT, attended Greens Farms Academy and graduated from Western New England University with a degree in Marketing and Business Administration. He was a postal clerk for the town of Westport for 36 years until his retirement in 2021. He served as the Union Steward for the clerks and was a longtime member of the Postal Union. EJ loved spending time with his family at his in-laws home in Belgrade Lakes and his parents’ home in Nantucket. He loved a good road trip and went on many with his family, visiting many National parks and points of interest all over the United States. He was an avid reader and could always be found with a book, magazine or newspaper. A lover of history, he toured many Civil War battlefields and attended several World War II reunions of the 487th Bomb Group with his parents and family. He loved trains and (let’s not forget) the New York Mets. He will be greatly missed. summer 2023 | 69
C H R I STO P H E R E .G. S AX E C L A S S O F 1 9 74 It is with profound sadness that the family of Christopher Edward Gordon Saxe announces his passing on April 22, 2023. An incredible human being and a man of substance, Chris will be lovingly remembered by his husband Gary M. Shelton, his daughter and son-in-law Caroline and Brook SaxeCobaugh and his treasured grandson Sebastian SaxeCobaugh. He will also be deeply missed by his sister-inlaw Allison Broadhead Saxe, nephew Adam Saxe, niece Madeleine Saxe, and great niece Skyler Saxe. Christopher was predeceased by his beloved brother Andrew Saxe, father Edward L. Saxe, and mother Anthea Gordon Saxe. Chris was born on December 22, 1955, at Norwalk Hospital and was a lifelong Westport native. His journey of life encompassed his incredible years at Greens Farms Academy and the lifelong friendships he made through those years. Friendship to Chris was truly a commitment and those he held most dear remain forever in his heart. His friendship was truly a gift and if you shared a friendship with him, you always had a champion in your life. His summers in Dorset, England visiting his cousins, aunts and uncles were also a huge part of his childhood preserving his English heritage and family history. Throughout his adult years his many return visits to Dorset were a reflection of his English lineage. After graduating from GFA, Chris attended Skidmore College and graduated from The New School in New York City before ascending to his first career path in the art world. He was selected to join the staff at the acclaimed Andre Emmerich Gallery in NYC. It was here that his creativity and passion for art flourished. Chris entered the world of real estate when he left the city and returned to Fairfield County in 1984. He managed several brokerages and was honored as the 1995 Realtor of the Year by the Mid-Fairfield County Association of Realtors. A director of the association for many years, he had served as its president, vice-president, and membership chairman. In 1998 he joined Rick Higgins and founded The Higgins 70 | www.gfacademy.org
Group Private Brokerage, serving as the executive vice president and managing partner for 25 years. Chris helped grow the Westport office from four to presently more than eighty agents. In 2001 he was also instrumental in having the Higgins Group being selected as the local affiliate for the now known prestigious Christie’s International Real Estate. His expertise in the real estate field combined with his communication and people skills gave him the ability to reach clients on both a professional and personal level. His compassionate nature drew people to him. He will be celebrated for his distinguished service to the real estate community. Chris met his true love Gary in 2007 and together they built a life of love, compassion, and total commitment. They eventually partnered in the real estate business and became a dynamic duo at the Higgins Group. During their sixteenyear relationship they continually added to the tapestry of their life together. That tapestry will continue to grow with the threads of friendship and love that surround them both. Part of the beauty of their tapestry were the flowers and plantings that Chris created, their penchant for splashes of color to create joy, and their love of all animals great and small. They held and carried each other through the best of times and the worst of times with an inspired love. There are no words to truly describe the devastating loss of someone so loved. Our hearts are hurting because we have lost a treasured gentle, kind soul, who was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother-in-law, uncle, and friend. Chris was all that and more, always reaching out to the vast number of family members and friends that he kept close to his heart and in close contact. He made everyone around him feel his love of life and made you appreciate every moment of every day. Christopher’s courageous and brutal ten-year battle with cancer did not diminish the light within him. His spirit, his smile and his gentle and loving nature were beacons of light that brought us joy and gave us refuge from our own fears. Chris was the epitome of a life that mattered. With Gary by his side, he rose above all the adversity and pain and spread seeds of joy and happiness in our world. He colored our lives with beauty and wisdom through his charismatic personality and his compassionate spirit. Chris did it all with dignity, courage and an undeniable sense of style and joy.
PA M E L A T U R N U R E T I M M I N S CLASS OF 1954 Pamela Timmins, Press Secretary to Jacqueline Kennedy, died on April 25, 2023 at her home in Edwards, Colo. She was 85. Her half brother, O. Burtch Winters Drake, said the cause was lung cancer. Ms. Timmins was the first person to hold the post for an American first lady, helping Mrs. Kennedy navigate times both dazzling and tragic. The president was concerned about what a windblown ride in a motorcade would do to his wife’s hair. He asked her press secretary, Pamela Turnure Timmins, for advice. She proposed that the couple not ride in a convertible. “We did discuss it, and I suggested the bubble top,” Ms. Timmins said in a 1964 oral history, “and just immediately he said, ‘No, that’s semi-satisfactory; if you’re going out to see the people, then they should be able to see you.’” The president in question was John F. Kennedy, and the motorcade they were discussing was the fateful one through Dallas in November 1963, when Kennedy was assassinated. In 1961, at 23, Ms. Timmins had become the first person ever to hold the title of press secretary to an American first lady when she joined the staff of Jacqueline Kennedy. It was a post that made her a witness to considerable glamour and considerable tragedy. Ms. Timmins had been a receptionist at the Belgian Embassy and, beginning in 1957, a secretary to Timothy Reardon, a top aide to John Kennedy, before she was chosen to be the first lady’s press secretary. The new first couple were made for the age of television and glossy magazines, and Mrs. Kennedy was going to be a magnet for media coverage the way few first ladies had been before. The choice of Ms. Timmins (who was Ms. Turnure at the time) was unconventional, since she had almost no journalism experience or track record of working with the news media. According to “Jack and Jackie: Portrait of an American Marriage” (1996), by the journalist Christopher Andersen, it was Mr. Kennedy who told Pierre Salinger, his White House
press secretary, to hire Ms. Timmins. In any case, she settled into that fastpaced job, fielding dozens of phone calls and writing 20 or 30 letters a day; accompanying the first lady on trips and public appearances; and answering reporters’ questions about what Mrs. Kennedy was wearing, for example, and who had designed it. “I can’t imagine anything more exciting,” she told the Washington newspaper The Evening Star in August 1961, when she was seven months into the job. “The whole aura of being here is wonderful.” Mr. Anderson’s book described “a flowery welcome-aboard letter” to Ms. Timmins from Mrs. Kennedy, who wrote, “You have sense and good taste enough not to panic, and to say the right thing.” Pamela Harrison Turnure was born on Nov. 20, 1937, in Manhattan to Lawrence and Louise (Gwynne) Turnure. Her parents divorced when she was young, and she was raised by her mother and stepfather, Frederic Drake, a magazine publisher. After leaving the White House, she worked for a time in interior decorating and eventually settled in Colorado. She attended the Bolton School for girls in Westport, Conn., then Colby Junior College (now Colby-Sawyer College) in New Hampshire. She also studied at Mount Vernon Junior College in Washington before working for an interior decorator and then taking the Belgian Embassy job.
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Alumni events 72 | www.gfacademy.org
Save the
Date Thanksgiving Pub Night
Wednesday, November 22, 2023 6:30-8:00 pm Local Fairfield - 85 Mill Plain Rd, Fairfield, CT
Young Alumni Visiting Day (Class of ’19–’23)
Thursday, January 4, 2024 10:30 am-1:00 pm 35 Beachside Avenue, Westport, CT
Giving Day
Thursday, May 9, 2024 Follow along online!
Reunion Weekend
Friday, May 17 & Saturday May 18, 2024 35 Beachside Avenue, Westport, CT
Thank you for being All-in for GFA
all in for
Giving Day 5.4.23
Unlimited Impact Record-breaking $935,000 raised on Giving Day GFA’s third annual Giving Day brought together over 950 passionate supporters from around the country to celebrate our community and invest in its success.
2 | www.gfacademy.org
35 BEACHSIDE AVENUE WESTPORT, CT 06880-9906