GSB Magazine - Fall 2024 by Gill St. Bernard's School

Gill St. Bernard’s School

P.O. Box 604, St. Bernard’s Road Gladstone, NJ 07934-0604

908-234-1611 • gsbschool.org

Produced by Communications Office

Design by Vision Creative Group

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Sara Ash Kenefick ’08

Keisha Audain-Pressley P ’25

Laura Brucker P ’22, ’23

John Coates P ’26, ’27

Raymond Conger ’03

Rajiv De Silva P ’21, ’25

Tom Fischer P ’16

Dr. Andrea Freeman ’95

Elizabeth Fucci P ’17

Michael Golden P ’99, ’02, GP '37

Elizabeth Gustafson P '20, '22

Matthew Harding ’81

Dr. Haresh Kane P ’29, ’34

TABLE CONTENTS OF

Jeff Lager ’86

Brenda Liberti P ’24, ’26

Emily Maillet P ’29

Sandi Niccolai P ’16

Mike Petillo P ’26, ’27

Reema Puri P ’19, ’21

Sid Rowell, Ex-Officio

Rev. Dr. Paul Saddler ’69

Antoinette Segreto P ’32, ’32

Ashok Vemuri P ’19, ’22

HONORARY TRUSTEES

Lee Amoroso P ’11, ’13, ’19

Brandon Clark P ’02, ’06

Bill Conger P ’03

Sam Corliss

Ann Drzik P ’17

Gia Dunn P ’12, ’14, ’16

Richard Emmit P ’02

Nelson Ferreira P ’12, ’14

Donald Fuentes P ’14, ’16

Judy Fulton Higby ’65

John Howard P ’17, ’21

Caroline Jones ’78

Adrienne Kirby P ’09, ’13

Rose Kirk P ’18

Michael Mandelbaum

Richard Markham P ’11, ’12

Douglas L. Matthews P ’16, ’18, ’24

Mark Mazzatta P ’21, ’23

Mary McNamara

Linda Moore

Edmond Moriarty III P ’11, ’14, ’16, ’22

Elizabeth Nametz P ’03, ’09

Ellen Nardoni

James O’Connor P ’21, ’21

Robert O’Leary P ’11

Mark Paris

Preston Pinkett III

Steven Polachi P ’08, ’11, ’14

John Raymonds P ’21

Marianne Saladino P ’14, ’16

Robert Sameth, Jr. ’89

Vlad Torgovnik P ’16, ’21, ’26

Janine Udoff P ’16, ’17, ’21, ’23

Michael Weinstein ’87

Karen Young P ’21, ’21, ’25

BOARD OF VISITORS

Brandon Clark P ’02, ’06

Sam Corliss

Michael Golden P ’99, ’02, GP '37

The Hon. Thomas H. Kean

Edward E. Matthews

FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

Dear Friends,

Every year, one of the moments I look forward to the most is Convocation. This year was my last one here as Head of School and, as such, particularly special.

For me, Convocation captures the excitement and energy essential to all new beginnings. This formal ceremony was established more than 20 years ago and occurs right after Labor Day. Convocation “bookends” the academic year with Commencement. As a vital all-school event, it gives us the chance to recognize the senior class and new Trustees in front of the community. Today’s version is much more formal than when it was first established, with bagpipes and an academic procession to begin and conclude the event.

I have come to treasure the opportunity this event provides me to speak to our students, teachers, and senior parents about the year ahead. It has always been one of my goals at Gill St. Bernard’s to build a community of learners, and formal events such as Convocation are but one way in which we accomplish this. While my words always incorporate our core values, the essence of the message changes annually based on the unique nature of the senior class and developments in our nation as well as around the world. My hope is that all present will be able to take away something that they might reflect on over the coming months.

In September, everything is possible in our school. Spirits are high, and hope springs eternal. May it always be so.

Regards,

CLASSROOM

CASEY SANTONACITA,

LOWER SCHOOL LEARNING SUPPORT SPECIALIST

The 2024/2025 school year marks my 16th year at GSB, and my eighth year as the Lower School Learning Support Specialist. As I look to this year, nothing excites me more than the moment my readers begin to take off and everything begins to click. Watching the excitement in their eyes as they unlock the code and begin to read on their own is something that is the highlight of my year—every year. For some students that happens earlier than others, but watching each child persevere and follow their own path is inspiring.

When I began teaching, I never imagined myself being a reading teacher or support teacher. I always envisioned myself as a classroom teacher for life. Now, I can’t imagine a day without helping my students in all grade levels become stronger, more confident readers. It’s exciting and some of the most fun I’ve ever had as a teacher. Singing phonics songs, teaching students to segment and blend words, and watching them become more independent as each week goes by is truly a gift.

As I look to this year, nothing excites me more than the moment my readers begin to take off and everything begins to click.

To give readers a glimpse into the GSB classroom, we asked faculty across divisions and subject areas the same thought-provoking question:

As educators, we all have a lesson or moment in the classroom that we look forward to. As you think about your school year, what is the lesson, topic, or moment that excites you the most to teach and why?

Their responses are heartfelt, inspiring, and filled with hope for the future. We hope you find them as moving and motivating as we did.

DENISE QUENAULT, LOWER SCHOOL INSTRUCTOR

There are so many amazing teaching moments that I have experienced with my 4th grade students at GSB. But I have to say that the very best teaching moment is when my students and I gather together in a big circle for our Morning Meeting each day. It is during those precious 10-15 minutes that my students feel safe, supported, valued, and loved. The act of gracing students with unconditional love and listening helps them to develop meaningful relationships that allow my students to feel supported and cared for.

Our Morning Meetings begin by the students greeting one another. Then the students each have the opportunity to share special moments or recent experiences with each other. This in turn allows their peers to share their thoughts and ask questions. We then partake in a meaningful activity. Some of our favorite activities consist of Would You Rather, Silent Ivan, Mrs. Quenault Says, and Brain Games to name a few. This is one of the highlights that they enjoy most. We conclude our meeting with a positive message that we try to reflect on throughout the day.

The ultimate goal of our 4th grade Morning Meeting is to build a positive culture in my classroom. When my students know that they are cared for, they more honestly reflect on their words and actions. I want my students to believe that I truly desire for them to become the best possible versions of themselves!

The act of gracing students with unconditional love and listening helps them to develop meaningful relationships that allow my students to feel supported and cared for.

CARLY HYDRUSKO, LOWER AND MIDDLE SCHOOL ART INSTRUCTOR

As an educator, so many enjoyable moments in my classroom come to mind. My favorite is when I introduce my students to a new artist. When they come to class, I always display an artwork by the artist on my board to spark discussion. Their reactions are priceless to me. Art is meant to spark discussion and exploration. Whether they love or disagree with what they see, they are observing and sharing their thoughts with each other. As an art teacher, it is humbling to watch a student observe a Van Gogh or Georgia O’Keeffe for the first time. It feels like a privilege to lead students on an exploration of the art world and introduce them to new artists.

It's especially exciting to watch students gravitate towards artists they connect with, whether it’s the artist's style or story. Art is meant to fuel creativity and show perspective; studying different artists helps drive those points home. When my students begin to recall this information or recognize an artist's work outside of school, I feel I’ve succeeded in my role as their teacher. My goal is to broaden their perspective of what art can be and how they can apply this to their everyday lives.

Art is meant to spark discussion & exploration. Whether they love or disagree with what they see, they are observing & sharing their thoughts with each other.

It’s a transformative moment where the abstract concepts of grammar and vocabulary come together in a meaningful way, allowing students to experience language as a living, communicative tool.

MONIQUE BROWN, MIDDLE SCHOOL SPANISH INSTRUCTOR, MIDDLE SCHOOL DEIC COORDINATOR

The moment I most look forward to in the school year is when I introduce a Level 1 Spanish reader to both my 7th and 8th Grade classes. After discovering these readers at a language educators conference, I knew they would be an impactful addition to my curriculum. Watching students realize they are capable of reading an entire book in Spanish is an incredible experience. It’s a transformative moment where the abstract concepts of grammar and vocabulary come together in a meaningful way, allowing students to experience language as a living, communicative tool. This not only strengthens their skills but also ignites a genuine interest in learning Spanish.

What makes this moment so rewarding is the reaction from the students. The initial surprise that they can read and comprehend a story in Spanish quickly turns into excitement, pride, and a boost of confidence. The energy in the classroom shifts as students begin to see themselves as capable Spanish readers. It becomes a milestone in their language learning journey, creating a shared sense of achievement and fueling their motivation for future lessons. The excitement and engagement that come from this discovery make it one of the most fulfilling aspects of teaching for me each year.

JACK WILLIAMS III, UPPER SCHOOL MUSIC INSTRUCTOR

PETER ROSLUND P ’25, ’25, LOWER AND MIDDLE SCHOOL P.E. TEACHER

I have been teaching physical education for Gill St. Bernard’s Lower School for 24 years now. One of the things that I have found unique at GSB is that I have the privilege to teach students starting in First Grade. We work on skill development in various sports as well as on laying a foundation in sportsmanship and teamwork. As a PS-12 campus, I then have the unique opportunity to coach some of the same students once they get to interscholastic sports in our Middle School and even Upper School.

The life lessons that are learned through athletics begin early on in Phys Ed. Many times throughout the years, a child has said to me that they didn’t think that they were good at a particular skill, or they couldn’t do something. With a little encouragement, they soon come to realize that they can be successful in these skills and that they can be a contributor in PE class. This then carries over into other areas of their lives. Building a child’s confidence in a sport can be life changing for them.

As a coach, it is amazing to see students growth and development as athletics become a big part of their life at GSB. Being a part of the kids learning important lessons in sportsmanship and teamwork and being able to see the development of their skills in the individual sport units throughout our curriculum has been a highlight for me.

Building a child’s confidence in a sport can be life changing for them.

Last year, working with Blue in the Face (GSB’s multi-genre vocal band) was such a challenge.

Our Joe Show, when we perform in front of the community, kept getting postponed due to weather and other scheduling conflicts. We had been working extremely hard to put on a great show, and when showtime finally came, the students sounded great as always—but we weren't quite looking the part in terms of loosening up and just having fun on stage.

We got to our halfway point in the show with the song “The Healing” by Gary Clark Jr., and it was time for Luc Corrado to perform his guitar solo. All of a sudden, he started doing things we had never seen him do before! He's playing behind his back, playing with his teeth, and just putting on an entire show!! Once Luc loosened up, it allowed the rest of the ensemble to do so as well, and the remainder of the Joe Show was a blast.

Seeing the students take ownership of their show and jam together on stage was one of the proudest moments of my career, and I can't wait to rock out with them again at this year's Joe Show.

Seeing the students take ownership of their show and jam together on stage was one of the proudest moments of my career.

Learning about the origins of their names and those of others fosters greater cultural awareness, enriches their understanding of heritage, and nurtures a stronger sense of belonging.

TRACEY GOODSON BARRETT, NINTH GRADE SEMINAR INSTRUCTOR, DIRECTOR OF DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION, AND COMMUNITY

Teaching Ninth Grade Seminar is always a highlight of the day for me, particularly the unit on the history of names. This unit often provides students with a transformative moment, helping them uncover the rich cultural histories of their families through the lens of their names. Learning about the origins and meanings of names opens a unique window into their personal identity, culture, and heritage, offering insights into the values and traditions of their families and communities.

Exploring the history of names holds deep significance. Names often connect us to our heritage, providing a link to ancestral stories and cultural traditions. This lesson prompts students to engage in self-reflection, seek insight from family members about the significance of their names, and research their historical meanings. Through this process, students are affirmed in their sense of self, developing a deeper appreciation of their identities and the values the families they cherish. Learning about the origins of their names and those of others fosters greater cultural awareness, enriches their understanding of heritage, and nurtures a stronger sense of belonging.

Ultimately, it’s been great to see the students engage with one another and try to push ideas that they feel passionate about.

CHRISTINE CHAN P ’37, UPPER SCHOOL HISTORY INSTRUCTOR, INTERNATIONAL PROGRAM DIRECTOR, TENTH GRADE DEAN

Every year, my Advanced Placement United States Government and Politics course conducts a Mock Congress. Over the course of two weeks, students are assigned to be current members of the House of Representatives or Senate and must create legislation that they feel would benefit their congressperson’s constituents as well as garner widespread support throughout the chamber. Students bring these bills to our “committee” meetings and have to advance their agendas before the committee. If the committee votes to pass it, then it goes to the whole class to be discussed and voted on.

Ultimately, it’s been great to see the students engage with one another and try to push ideas that they feel passionate about. Students have created bills that addressed climate change, deforestation, National Parks, health care and national infrastructure. Much like the United States Congress, the students act as their congressperson and make attempts to create alliances or find ways to vote as a bloc.

At the end of the simulation, students feel they understand how bills become laws and how the U.S. Congress works based on the Constitution as well as in practice. I love this simulation because it allows students to think from different perspectives and forces them to consider the situation or bill from all angles.

NED LINCOLN, FARM MANAGER

The most impactful lesson in Animal Science is hard to determine, because it varies for each student. For one, it might be the documentary we watch about genetic engineering, which is so fascinating that the student makes their parents watch it at home. For others, it might be the look of joyful surprise on their face when they succeed in putting a sheep in shearing position for the first time. There may be no particular moment for a student, but more of a building of confidence over the school year, ultimately demonstrating their engagement with the real world and an understanding that they can have a tangible impact on their environment.

Our effect on the environment as individuals can feel simultaneously minuscule and enormous, in both positive and negative ways. Helping students build their context and perspective for understanding how we engage with and change the world we are a part of is what I find so meaningful about teaching Animal Science. And seeing flashes of insight in the students, or the development of a relationship with the 'natural' world, is what keeps me connected to the root of why I do this work.

NASRIN AMERI, UPPER SCHOOL

MATHEMATICS INSTRUCTOR

My career in education began in 1986 as a professor at Montclair State University and later at Ramapo College where I taught statistics, college algebra, and other math classes. For as long as I can remember, I always wanted to be a teacher. As a child, I recall pretending to be a teacher and using a blackboard that my family had in our basement. In fact, I would force my younger siblings to be my students, and coming from a family of six children, I had my fair share of pupils! My passion for teaching was evident early on.

Indeed, teaching is a noble profession that requires passion, dedication, patience, and commitment. I remember first coming to Gill St. Bernard's for my interview. As I walked around the campus, I was impressed with its beautiful grounds and how welcoming the community was. GSB gave me freedom and independence in the classroom to grow as a educator and as a learner. Not a day goes by where I do not learn something new from my students or my colleagues.

As an educator, I strive to create a healthy and supportive classroom environment where my students feel empowered to ask questions, explore, and take risks, all in a safe and inclusive environment. I try to spark their curiosity and activate their critical thinking skills so that they acquire knowledge and real-life problem-solving skills.

In all my years of teaching, I have seldom encountered such a unique and vibrant student body as GSB's. My students at GSB are kind, respectful, compassionate, highly motivated, and ambitious. I genuinely love them and am proud to be part of this community.

Helping students build their context and perspective for understanding how we engage with and change the world we are a part of is what I find so meaningful about teaching Animal Science.

As an educator, I strive to create a healthy and supportive classroom environment where my students feel empowered to ask questions, explore, and take risks, all in a safe and inclusive environment.

The connections and analyses that students make, whether a comparison between Catullus love poems and Taylor Swift lyrics or a discussion of what Ovid’s tale of Daedalus and Icarus teaches us when Icarus flies too close to the sun, continue to excite me year after year, spring after spring.

MACADA BRANDL P ’20, ’22, ’26 UPPER SCHOOL LATIN INSTRUCTOR, WORLD LANGUAGE DEPARTMENT CHAIR

I often look forward to the spring when I have the pleasure of introducing the students in Latin III classes to various Classical masterpieces written in Latin and studied for thousands of years. The Latin students begin their language journey learning the essential vocabulary, grammar, and translation skills, and are quickly able to read stories written by various educators and scholars to teach them how to read Latin. It is in the spring of the third year that they are ready to understand and analyze selections from authors such as Pliny, Catullus, Ovid, and Vergil.

When my students realize that they are joining a group of learners who have studied these authors for thousands of years, it makes me even more enthusiastic to guide them through the literature. The students research the writers and the times and places in which they lived and are given the opportunity to choose which authors they would like to translate. Classical researchers have been making more literature available from diverse voices from various time periods and places, and so our choices continue to expand—and so I also learn something new with the students each year. The connections and analyses that students make, whether a comparison between Catullus love poems and Taylor Swift lyrics or a discussion of what Ovid’s tale of Daedalus and Icarus teaches us when Icarus flies too close to the sun, continue to excite me year after year, spring after spring.

Overall, I am always happy to guide students to make connections, at any level of learning Latin, between this beautiful Classical language with its culture and history and both school subjects and the society in which we live. For example, the chemical symbols Au and Fe, the abbreviations i.e, e.g., etc., n.b., how September at one point actually was the seventh month, all have their roots in Latin and can be found in this GSB classroom.

I believe that, ultimately, my job is to teach life skills that students can learn and practice in the classroom, in the gym, or out of the fields, and then take with them and apply to their own everyday life.

JONNA DEFALCO P ’32, ’39, MIDDLE SCHOOL HEALTH AND P.E. TEACHER

As a Health and PE teacher, the best moments for me are actually somewhat “outside” the classroom. I believe that, ultimately, my job is to teach life skills that students can learn and practice in the classroom, in the gym, or out of the fields, and then take with them and apply to their own everyday life.

Lessons in stress management and using refusal skills, for example, provide students with valuable tools that, as a teacher, I am left hoping that they practice in “real life.” Students who catch me in the hallway or after class and share their personal stories with me solidify the importance and the reach that these lessons have. A Sixth Grader who shares that they now use the visualization exercises they’ve learned in class to mentally prepare for a big swim meet, or the Eighth Grader who went home after a lesson on the dangers of underage drinking to have a conversation with their parents about what to do if they were in an unsafe situation, those are my moments of reassurance and inspiration.

Gill St. Bernard's Announces Dr. Delvin Dinkins Head of School Elect,

The GSB Board of Trustees is delighted to announce that they have unanimously elected Dr. Delvin M. Dinkins as the next Head of School. Dr. Dinkins will begin his role on July 1, 2025, and will be GSB’s sixth Head of School post-merger.

Chairman of the Board of Trustees and Chair of the Search Committee, Rajiv De Silva P '21, '25 noted, “I am delighted that Dr. Dinkins has accepted our offer to become the next head of school at GSB. He is a talented and compassionate educator who will be able to preserve the essence of GSB while transforming it for future generations."

Read the full announcement on the website.

What draws me to GSB is what has likely drawn others as well: the opportunity to serve a community with a strong sense of itself as one that prioritizes the whole child. It is a place that sharpens minds and softens hearts, a place where students can develop a passion for learning and be profoundly shaped by generosity of spirit.

--Dr. Delvin Dinkins

with Dr. Delvin Dinkins

What is your favorite children’s book?

Of so many wonderful children’s books out there, I’d have to say that one of my favorites is Charlotte’s Web. There is something for everyone in this book: awe and wonder, memorable characters, unlikely friendships, losses and gains, and heroes.

What books are currently on your nightstand?

Make It Stick, Think Again, The Shakespeare Requirement, and The Power of Wonder.

Coffee or tea—and how do you take it?

Pour that cup of joe! And I’ll take some cream, sweetened even, with that, please!

What was your favorite subject in school growing up—and what subject challenged you the most?

Like many kids, my favorite subject was the one I did best in—history. English was a close second. I enjoyed learning about the past, the events that have shaped the present, the present, and how it shapes the future.

The subject that challenged me the most was Spanish! I had a wonderfully demanding teacher in high school who wouldn’t let any of his students off the hook or hide in his class. He required excellence from his students no matter what and saw to it that we delivered it.

If you could teach any class at GSB for a day, what would it be? Why?

If I could teach any class at GSB for a day, it would be Psychology. Even though my academic background is in English, I have always enjoyed learning about human behavior and the thinking that underlies it. (I would also enjoy teaching American Literature and AP English Language & Composition, once my two staple courses.)

If you could join a school club, which one would it be?

I would join the Fishing Club. I have never been much of a fisherman, but I enjoy the outdoors and would like to try it. I keep hearing how relaxing it can be!

If you could instantly master a new skill or talent, what would it be?

Playing a new instrument! I regret dropping an instrument many moons ago, the saxophone, and never picking it up again.

What are your interests and hobbies outside of school?

I enjoy reading, although much of it is nonfiction and professional. I am working on integrating more fiction and pleasure reading into my diet. I used to play soccer and basketball at a modest level, and I enjoy volleyball and racket sports like squash, tennis, and padel.

My primary athletics love, though, is track and field. I competed at the Division III level in college, and I still give it a go as a member of a competitive masters track club team.

What is your favorite sports team?

I have been a lifelong Pittsburgh Steelers fan! Blame it on my mother and the mystique of the rough and tumble 1970s football era.

What inspired you to pursue a career in education and leadership?

From childhood, I felt a strong sense of purpose. After transferring from a struggling public school to an independent one, I thrived in an environment that encouraged exploration and excellence, guided by supportive teachers and mentors who made learning

meaningful. I loved going to school! In college, I immersed myself in academics, student life, and a diverse, inclusive community that valued rigor and relevance. I learned to ask critical questions, apply knowledge to real-world problems, and connect learning to life, which shaped my commitment to education.

When applying to graduate school in the early 1990s, I wrote a statement of purpose expressing my desire to become a teacher despite my mother’s initial skepticism.

My goal was to transform lives, as mine had been transformed, and make a lasting impact on students, schools, and the world. This vision became my teaching philosophy and later informed my leadership approach: meeting students where they are, helping them exceed their potential, and improving the human condition.

These aspirations have been the foundation of my work and remain the reason I continue in this field.

What values or principles guide your leadership style?

Years ago, I read Robert Greenleaf’s The Servant as Leader, which profoundly influenced my perspective on leadership. He wrote, “The servant-leader is servant first. It begins with the natural feeling that one wants to serve. Then conscious choice brings one to aspire to lead.” His idea of servant leadership—a human-centered approach that prioritizes service to others—resonated with me. Over time, my philosophy has evolved into what I call hospitable leadership, an approach that blends service with creating a welcoming, supportive environment where people and purpose thrive.

So, my core philosophy is simple: put people and purpose first on purpose. This approach is rooted in ethics, inclusion, trust, integrity, and hospitality. Creating a hospitable environment where people feel cared for and appreciated for their contributions and who they are is central to my leadership.

Visible and engaged, I reach for input, listen with a tuned ear, and incorporate feedback. Empowering people to have a voice in decision-making while delegating responsibility produces a tangible sense of ownership and investment. While there inevitably comes a time when I have to make

decisions based on what is in the best interests of those entrusted to my leadership, people’s voices matter and their contributions count.

Inspiring the best in people and developing individuals and teams is essential to my leadership practice, as is making our work together enjoyable and impactful.

What

did you enjoy most about your visit to GSB?

From the moment I arrived, I was struck by the friendly, open, and curious spirit that permeates the school community. It was a joy to meet so many individuals deeply committed to the mission and values that define GSB. The hospitality extended to me made my visit all the more special and memorable. Smiles greeted me, faculty and staff opened their classrooms and offices, and students even took me to get some ice cream!

What did you learn about the school that surprised you?

What surprised me the most was how beautiful and wellcared-for the campus is. I had only been on campus once or twice before, but not for very long, and I was not in the interior spaces. Even though there was a bit of rain during my visit in October, the campus was lovely. And when I returned a few weeks after being appointed Head of School, the campus could not have been more stunning.

What attracted you to Gill St. Bernard’s, and what do you hope to achieve here?

What drew me to GSB is what has likely drawn others as well: the opportunity to serve a community with a strong sense of itself as one that prioritizes the whole child. It is a place that sharpens minds and softens hearts, where students can develop a passion for learning and be shaped profoundly by generosity of spirit.

I have been told repeatedly how great a school GSB is and how great the people are. Its commitment to fostering a joyful, collaborative, inclusive community resonates with me. I want to make GSB the best version of itself by drawing upon its strengths: its people! We can do great things together.

Hear from Dr. Dinkins in his Welcome Video:

Our students were beyond excited to welcome our new Head of School Elect to the community!

They wanted to introduce him to our beautiful campus, and they did so in this heartwarming video. We hope you enjoy watching it as much as they did making it.

Class of 2024

On Sunday, June 2, 2024, family, friends, faculty, trustees, and special guests arrived on campus to watch the annual GSB Commencement ceremony.

After seniors processed into the Athletic Center to the triumphant sounds of St. Ann’s of Hampton Pipes and Drums, honorary guest Rabbi Robert Green welcomed attendees with thoughtful words in his Invocation. Rabbi Green then introduced Head of School Sid Rowell who shared reflections on the remarkable achievements of this year’s class.

Head of School Sid Rowell then shared his reflections on the remarkable achievements of this year’s class and concluded his opening remarks by awarding the GSB Medal, a recognition to the highest level of service to the school, to Doug Matthews P ’16, ’18, ’24.

As a member of the Board of Trustees for twenty years, most recently serving as Board President for the past five years, Mr. Matthews has been a constant source of support and steadfastness to the GSB community.

Seven seniors volunteered to take to the podium and share their personal reflections of their time at GSB: Dakauri Pinckney, Ella Rapp, Anastasia Klyashtorny, Caroline D’Arcangelis, Ainsley Kroon, Jack Dahler, and Isabel Barsanti.

LIFERS2024

Our lifers are those students who attended Gill St. Bernard’s School since First Grade or before

Front row, from left to right: Caroline D’Arcangelis, Isabel Barsanti, Elizabeth Herr

Back row, from left to right: Jack Meenan, Bradley Matthews, Whitney Lapper, Peter Frantz Pendell, Lance Hollingshead

GSB Class of 2024 College Destinations

Babson College

Boston College

Boston University (3)

Brown University

Carleton College

Case Western Reserve University

Clemson University

Colgate University

College of the Holy Cross

Colorado College

Cornell University (2)

Dickinson College

Duke University

Elon University

Emory University

Endicott College

High Point University

Hobart William Smith Colleges

Kansas State University

Lafayette College

Lehigh University (2)

New York University

Northeastern University (4)

Ohio State University

Providence College (2)

Purdue University (2)

Quinnipiac University (2)

Rollins College

Rutgers University

Seton Hall University

Southern Methodist University

Stevens Institute of Technology (2)

The University of Tampa (2)

Tufts University (3)

University of Arizona

University of California at Davis

University of Delaware (2)

University of Miami (4)

University of Mississippi (3)

University of Notre Dame

University of Oregon (2)

University of Pittsburgh

University of Richmond (3)

University of Scranton

University of South Carolina-Columbia (2)

University of Wisconsin-Madison

University of Wyoming

Ursinus College

Villanova University

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Wagner College

Washington and Lee University

Washington College

Yale University

GSB Honors Class of 2032 in Lower School Closing Exercises

Gill St. Bernard’s celebrated the Class of 2032’s transition from Lower School to Middle School with a heartwarming ceremony on Tuesday, June 4, 2024.

The event began with processional and opening remarks from Lower and Middle School Director Kyle Armstrong P ’21, ’29, ’36. As a thoughtful parting gift, Armstrong presented each student with the book Be You! by Peter H. Reynolds.

“As is written in this book, never be afraid to be you!” Armstrong said. “You have so much to offer the world, so let yourself be curious, persistent, and kind. Enjoy this book many times over, and congratulations once again on completing Lower School.”

Students were involved in every aspect of the program, from introducing speakers and singing to taking charge at the podium and receiving recognition for their achievements. Lower School Assistant Director Jill Fedon P ’27 introduced the Class of 2032 during the annual pin ceremony, and Head of School Sid Rowell awarded the prestigious Amol Ajinkya Citizenship Award.

Congratulations to the entire Lower School for a successful school year, and best wishes to the Fourth Graders as they advance to Middle School!

GSB Honors Class of 2028 in Middle School Closing Exercises

Family and friends gathered on campus on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, for a beautiful day recognizing the Class of 2028 at the GSB Middle School Closing Exercises ceremony.

As Eighth Graders processed into the Athletic Center for the event, GSB Lower & Middle School Director Kyle Armstrong P ’21, ’29, ’36 welcomed guests with opening remarks that reflected on incredible moments throughout the year — the Eclipse Party, the MS Pirates of Penzance Musical, Girls' Track winning the MSAC championship, the Class of 2028 trip to Washington D.C., and the list goes on.

Mr. Armstrong also used the opportunity to share words of wisdom with this 8th Grade class: "In a world spinning faster than ever, the winning formula has not changed. There is in fact no secret strategy. There is no unique game play. There is no panacea. Do not let the competitive nature of the world fool you. The real path to a meaningful life, in fact the only path, runs through genuine human kindness, love, and support.”

After GSB faculty bestowed this year’s Middle School Awards and Prizes, Head of School Sid Rowell concluded the ceremony by awarding the Class of 2028 their Certifications of Completion.

The

Program SPRING UNIT

By Erica Mars ‘25

UPPER SCHOOL SPRING UNIT

Each year, Gill St. Bernard’s School provides students with the opportunity to participate in Spring Unit. This two-week program that emphasizes the school’s motto, “The World Is Our Classroom,” allows students to immerse themselves in a specific learning area outside typical academic subjects. Spring Unit has become an impactful and memorable program for Gill students and helps set GSB apart from other schools.

As an educational and experimental way to end the school year, GSB’s 2024 Spring Unit Program offered various courses for the Upper School students to think critically, learn, and connect with the world around them. With units representing cultural immersion, experiential learning, environmental sustainability, and service learning, the opportunities this year gave students unique experiences that they will remember forever.

Spring Unit has been a GSB signature program for nearly 50 years. The school's commitment to experiential learning is a cornerstone of our educational philosophy; a philosophy that has served our students well. We were proud to welcome back a significant number of alumni both in person and virtually to help make this year's Spring Unit a success.

– Spring Unit Co-Coordinator Mike Wendell ’84, P ’23

COSTA RICA

Students on the “Communities of Costa Rica: Volunteer and Adventure” trip took a deep dive into what makes Costa Rica unique. While participating in community service projects, beautiful hikes, and even learning how fresh coffee is made, the students experienced the trip of a lifetime, while making a positive impact on Costa Rica’s community.

BEHIND THE SCENES

Upper School Science Teacher Courtney Heller P ’31, ’33 models the makeup techniques learned through “Gill Goes Behind the Scenes”. Tyler Green, a talented special effects artist and winner of the television show Face-Off, mentored students who wanted to learn about cinematic magic. In an interview, Green expressed that through “applying wounds, creating a character, and painting”, he wanted students “to comprehend special effects makeup and how movie magic is done”.

THE CREATIVE HUSTLE

After visiting GSB students in the fall of 2023, students challenged alum Tory Stapleton ’06 to help create a new Unit. The result: “The Creative Hustle: Art & Entrepreneurship.” Students were guided on the process of designing a product, the creation of a brand, how to perfect an elevator pitch, social media usage, and setting up an online store. Participants were able to create and wear their original designs.

The Spring Unit program is not just a filler for the end of the school year, it allows students to explore new interests, collaborate with different teachers and peers, and learn in a hands-on way. This program helps students discover hidden talents and teaches them valuable skills like teamwork and problem-solving.

– Spring Unit Co-Coordinator Margery Schiesswohl P ’17

RECEIVING IN GIVING

In the “The Receiving in The Giving” unit, students traveled locally to organizations like Goryeb Children’s Hospital, the South Brunswick Senior Center, the Barnyard Sanctuary, and participated in a park cleanup. This unit provided students with rewarding experiences that taught them to make an impact on their communities.

O CANADA

The O Canada Unit had a great time hiking and taking in the views around Lake Louise in Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada.

MIDDLE SCHOOL SPRING UNIT

The GSB Middle School students also took part in a Spring Unit of their own. Like the Upper School Unit, this short program gave younger students the opportunity to acquire skill sets that go beyond a typical school assignment. Fifth and Sixth Grade students visited Fairview Farm Wildlife Preserve and Liberty Science Center. Seventh and Eighth Graders were given the choice of studying wellness, designing a political campaign, making their own guitar, creating a podcast, exploring our judicial system, and learning to make pizza.

INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

This year, 17 students had the opportunity to experience real-life working environments in industries including education, forensic science, medicine, finance, and cybersecurity through GSB’s Internship Program. The students also presented their twoweek experience to a panel of faculty, staff, and their peers, giving them insight into how to professionally display their work.

(Erica Mars ‘25 worked with the GSB Communications Office for her Spring Unit Internship.)

2024 INTERNSHIP PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS

FISHING DERBY 2nd Annual

Young fishers came out in force on SaturMay 11, 2024, to take part in Gill St. Bernard’s 2nd Annual Fishing Derby. Held at Home Winds Farm’s Lake Betsy, participants aged 8 – 18 learned new techniques and reeled in some great catches.

Stations were set up for participants to receive a Passport to Fishing, provided by one of our sponsors, the International Game Fish Association (IGFA), and prizes were awarded for the Biggest Fish Caught,

18thAnnual GSB Classic

On what could stand in the history books as one of the most beautiful spring days ever, over 100 Gill St. Bernard’s friends, family, and community members joined together at the Roxiticus Golf Club on Monday, May 20, 2024, to partake in the 18th Annual GSB Classic.

The longstanding GSB Classic tradition began almost two decades ago with the sole purpose of raising money to support GSB’s endowment, specifically for need-based financial assistance. This year, participants could choose to engage in a spirited game of tennis in the morning or to test their swing on Roxiticus’s rolling hills in the afternoon. Whatever the enthusiastic attendees chose as their sport of choice, the end result was the same: over $100,000 was raised to support GSB endowment need-based financial assistance in just one day.

The average award a student receives at GSB is $28,338, and over 30% of GSB students receive some sort of financial assistance. The school is proud of its historical record of providing substantive financial assistance, and the GSB Classic is a key component of that worthy mission. Over $1.8 million dollars have been raised since its inception, and with the proceeds from today’s event, that total is nearing an impressive $2 million.

Our families are fortunate to be members of the GSB community. We are proud to chair the GSB Classic, allowing the school we love to provide our children with the best opportunities and education.

– Co-Chairs Brenda Liberti P ’24, ’26, Rachel Kalafer P ’29, and Sacha Marcucci P ’26, ’29, ’32

Reunion ALUMNI

The Gill St. Bernard's campus buzzed with excitement and nostalgia as over 50 alumni, along with their families and friends, gathered for the annual GSB Alumni Reunion on Saturday, June 1, 2024. Set against the backdrop of a picturesque summer day, the event was a testament to the enduring bonds and cherished memories formed at GSB.

Special recognition was given to the Class of 1974 attendees Beau Bossert, Tony Tillman, and Lisa Amorosa, who were marking their 50th reunion. With attendees traveling from as far as North Carolina, Texas, and Indiana, the alumni demonstrated the lasting impact of GSB on their education and life post-graduation.

It was great to visit GSB for our 50th reunion! The campus is just beautiful with many new buildings and in such a gorgeous setting. It was a perfect summer day, and I was reminded of how fortunate I was to attend school there. I’m even more thankful that my children had the opportunity to study at GSB for Lower and Middle School.

– Lisa Amorosa ’74

of the Class of 2004.

Class of 1974: From L to R: Head of School Sid Rowell, Beau Bossert, Lisa Amorosa, Anthony (Tony) Tillman All came from a distance to celebrate! Beau from TX, Lisa from FL, and Tony from Indiana.

From L to R: Forrest Engelman ’72, Fred Engelberger ’71 and Director of Parent Relations & Special Events Jen Doherty.

Alumni Reunion 2025 SAVE THE DATE

Mark your calendars for the GSB Alumni Reunion on Saturday, May 3, 2025. We are celebrating milestone years ending with 0's and 5's, and all alumni are invited to reconnect with classmates and make new memories.

Interested in Volunteering?

Committee volunteers play an important role in helping to rally your class and generate excitement about Reunion by doing personalized outreach and encouraging attendance in order to ensure a successful event. Contact GSB Alumni Relations team member, Katrina Musto, at (908) 234-1611 x292 or email at kmusto@gsbschool.org.

Members of the Class of 2019.

Members

The Matthews sisters returned to GSB for Reunion. From L to R: Amity Matthews ’18 and Caty Matthews ’16.

From L to R: Sabrina (Alvarez) Morton ’10, Daina (Raiffe) Newman ’10, Chloe Cotoulas ’09, Lauren Mistretta ’09, and Caroline Merck ’09.

SP

As part of our Alumni Spotlight Series, Gill St. Bernard's recently sat down with Bruce Easop, a GSB Class of 2009 alum, whose professional path has taken him from editing The Fourth Estate with Mr. Bostian to speechwriting for college presidents and serving as a civil rights lawyer at the U.S. Department of Education in Washington, D.C.

How did you land at GSB? When did you start?

I started at Gill St. Bernard’s in Second Grade and continued through high school. My family was drawn to the sense of community, teachers who are truly invested in their students, and the art program (because I loved to draw). GSB exceeded expectations on all counts!

Do you have a favorite GSB memory?

There are so many! Poetry Nights hosted in the Scout Cabin; acting as MC for the Mr. GSB Pageant with Chloe Cotoulas ’09; serving as Editor-in-Chief of our school newspaper The Fourth Estate; and signing yearbooks on the last day of school—just to name a few.

What was your favorite class?

My favorite classes are driven by the teachers who made an extraordinary impact on my GSB experience. Classes like Eighth Grade English with Mr. Maurer, Foundations of Mathematical Analysis with Mrs. Orr, Philosophy with Mr. Schmidt, and Physics with Mr. Bostian, all taught me about bringing curiosity and creativity to your work.

Tell us about a memorable Spring Unit you took part in. What did you do?

One of my favorite Spring Units was Creative Writing with Mrs. Orr. We had a chance to explore everything from poetry to short stories to plays and then workshop our pieces with our classmates. I was always inspired by how Mrs. Orr taught us to approach mathematical proofs and creative prose with the same sense of imagination and wonder.

How did GSB prepare you for college and the working world?

In many ways, GSB set me on the path I'm pursuing today. My experience at GSB demonstrated how education can make a transformative difference in students’ lives. That’s what motivates me to work at the intersection of education and civil rights law.

GSB also had a unique emphasis on research and writing. From English classes with Mrs. Ripton and Dr. Lutz to the scientific research paper with Mrs. Schmidt, GSB taught me to think critically, ask challenging questions, and build thoughtful answers in my writing. This has been an essential skill throughout college and my career.

Plus, experiences with extracurriculars like student government, newspaper, and the golf team taught me valuable leadership skills and a commitment to changing my communities for the better. That gave me the confidence to seek out leadership roles ever since—such as President of the Undergraduate Student Government at Princeton and Editor-in-Chief of the Stanford Journal of Civil Rights & Civil Liberties

Tell us a little about what you do now and how you got there.

I work as an Attorney with the U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights in Washington, D.C. My office combats discrimination based on race, sex, disability, age, and other protected characteristics by enforcing civil rights laws in our nation's schools. I act as a neutral fact finder and see a case through from start to finish—including interviewing complainants, investigating what happened, conducting legal analysis, and negotiating remedies.

This role feels like the culmination of my path so far. After earning an A.B. in Politics at Princeton University and a M.A. in Legal and Political Theory at UCL, I went on to serve as special assistant to the presidents of Swarthmore College and Princeton University. In those roles, I led communications and strategic projects while learning about what it takes to operate institutions of higher education. This inspired me to return to school for my J.D.-M.A. in Education from Stanford Law School, where I studied complex questions about education, equity, law, and policy. My current work weaves together each of these threads.

What would your advice to current GSB students be?

Stay in the moment, take photos, and write down memories! It's amazing how time flies. After a while, it will mean so much more to look back and remember your time at GSB.

What are some hobbies you enjoy?

I love to bake elaborate cakes. One of my favorites was a cake designed to look like pancakes, complete with Nutella for the syrup and chilled icing as a pat of butter on top!

SP TLIGHT Alumni

As part of our Alumni Spotlight Series, Gill St. Bernard's recently sat down with Jamie Palatini, a GSB Class of 2006 lifer, whose professional path has taken him from debating world events in Mr. Ripton’s social studies classes to communicating large scale sporting events as the Director of Communications at NBC Sports.

How did you land at GSB?

My first year at GSB was Kindergarten. I was a Gill St. Bernard’s “lifer” and spent my entire schooling career, from Kindergarten through senior year, at GSB. When I began, the Lower School was still using the old campus at Stronghold, and I didn’t transition to the Gladstone campus until the second half of Second Grade—right after Winter Break.

Do you have a favorite GSB memory?

I have so many great memories from my time at Gill! It’s an incredibly special place, and what makes it so are the people—the classmates, teachers, and coaches.

I had so many influential teachers in the Lower and Middle Schools; I’m sure students from around my time remember Mrs. Lowe, Mrs. Mershon, Mrs. Brescher, Mr. Bednarsky, and Mr. Grabowski, just to name a few.

Perhaps it’s a recency bias, but the Upper School is where my mind goes to the most. I very clearly recall great conversations in Mr. Ripton’s history classes, always thought-provoking lectures from Mr. Bostian, and the time spent with my classmates on sports teams and in the theatre. I was lucky to have had the opportunity to do sports and theatre during my time at GSB, and I think it helped me to become a very well-rounded person. Without a doubt, GSB is a great community and environment for learning and growing.

What was your favorite class?

That’s hard to say! While I didn’t pursue history in any significant way in college, I think the social studies and history classes with Mr. Ripton were my favorite. They always felt different, and as I came to find out, they were structured a lot like a college class, where we would discuss and debate what we read or were studying.

Mr. Ripton created an environment where it was okay to share your opinion and speak your mind, even if it might be different from what others in the class thought. I still really enjoy learning about history—and enjoy learning new things in general—and his class certainly contributed to that.

Tell us about the Spring Units you took part in. What were they and when? What did you do?

My freshman year unit in 2003 was a study on Quebec, which included a trip to Montreal. It was a really interesting unit and a great bonding experience for our entire class. And it was my first introduction to poutine!

Sophomore year, in 2004, was a study on the history of rock and roll and featured a trip to Seattle and classes at the Experience Music Project. I bought my first Pearl Jam record on that trip— since we were in Seattle—and they became one of my favorite bands!

Junior year was a study on improvisational comedy, where we practiced the craft at a studio in New York and performed for friends and family.

Oddly enough, I can’t exactly remember my senior year

unit. I believe it was a sports-focused unit, which I should have remembered, since I work in sports!

How did GSB prepare you for college and the working world?

Gill St. Bernard’s definitely prepared me for college and the working world. The school instills a sense of self-confidence and curiosity in its students, which has served me well. I believe that natural curiosity serves everyone well, no matter what career path you pursue.

The classroom environment in the Upper School is very similar to what I experienced at Quinnipiac University. I think the way in which I carry myself with executives or partners within my industry can be traced back to how we as students interacted often in a collegial, but respectful, manner with our teachers and administrators at GSB.

Tell us a little about what you do now.

I’m the Director of Communications for NBC Sports, overseeing the strategic communications and publicity in and around some of our biggest events, including the Olympics, the NFL, Golf and motorsports.

Golf is one of our main properties that I work on, and I lead the communications for our coverage of the PGA TOUR, LPGA Tour, USGA, and the Ryder Cup. Those responsibilities include managing media opportunities for our commentators like Mike Tirico and Dan Hicks, pitching business stories in and around our coverage, and managing crisis communications when appropriate.

I’ve been with the communications team at NBC Sports since 2013. It’s an incredibly fast-paced but exciting industry, and we’re thrilled for the Olympic Games this Summer in Paris, which should truly be fantastic.

What would be your advice to current GSB students?

Don’t be afraid of failing. Taking chances and failing is often when we learn the most about ourselves. It’s okay to make mistakes, and it’s good to be comfortable with being uncomfortable.

I would also say it’s important to be curious and to always ask questions. While my role at NBC Sports is rooted in communications, I need to communicate about a variety of things—production of our events, marketing, viewership metrics— and that requires a curiosity to understand them all so that I can appropriately communicate them to the press and the public.

What are some hobbies you enjoy?

My favorite hobby is spending time with my wife Lauren and our children Jack and Ruby. Watching them grow and experience new things is incredibly special.

Outside of that, golf is certainly my favorite sport, and I love to play when I can. I’ve also recently taken up chess which is a lot of fun (and also very hard!). I love live music and always try to see my favorite band (and greatest live band ever), Phish, when they’re in the area.

The Licata Family: Chris, Joe, Talia, Ariana, Kristen, CJ

As part of our Alumni Spotlight Series, Gill St. Bernard's recently sat down with three of the four Licata children, CJ ’18, Joe ’22, and Talia ’24, and their mother, Kristin. The Licata children all started GSB during Middle School, and Kristin was an active parent volunteer throughout, most recently serving the last two years as the head of the Athletic Boosters Club. The family spoke about their time at GSB and about how one school was able to provide so many different areas of connection and so many opportunities to a group of individuals with vastly different interests.

Do you have a favorite GSB memory?

Talia: My favorite GSB memory was being on the Academic League during senior year. My friends and I joined it thinking it would be fun, and it ended up being the highlight of our year. Each week we found ourselves counting down the days until the next competition, and we even played trivia during the bus rides to get into the quick-thinking spirit.

Joe: My favorite GSB memory was the lead up to the senior ping pong tournament. I played more ping pong in the weeks leading up to the tournament than ever before!

CJ: My favorite memory was winning the Indoor Meet of Champions as dozens of GSB students came to cheer me on through a spirit bus on a Saturday morning in Toms River.

Kristin: One of my favorite GSB memories was the annual Homecoming/Family Day. The campus was filled with GSB families, and to go there as a new parent (for me in 2012) was just amazing. The energy, the excitement, all the games and activities, the lunch: it was all so cool. It’s such a great way to kick off the school year and bring everyone together to simply enjoy campus and each other.

What was your favorite class?

Talia: My favorite class was AP 2D Art and Design with Ms. Isusi and Mr. Mazzotta because it got me used to working under pressure and creating a lot of art within a short period of time. It truly pushed me out of my comfort zone and forced me to work with materials that I would have never even considered.

Joe: My favorite class was Mr. Corona’s precalculus class. He is the type of teacher that can make any subject enjoyable.

CJ: My favorite class was AP European History with Mrs. Hiott because of the small class size and complicated/dense material that we worked through together. She was a great teacher, and we had a lot of fun diving into unique sources and readings.

Kristin: Each of the kids formed relationships with their teachers. They all got involved in many of the clubs and activities offered, they participated in sports and the arts, and they were engaged in the classroom and motivated at home. They sought help if needed, and they always felt they were in an environment that truly cared about their successes.

Tell us about the Extra Curriculars or Electives in which you participated.

Joe: I participated in track and field, woodworking, and photography. Photography with Mr. Mazzotta was really fun because I learned how to become proficient in Photoshop, which is a skill I still use today.

CJ: I participated in Habitat for Humanity as well as a club which focused on fundraising and events to support people struggling in the community. I also served in student government and was the vice president my junior year and president my senior year. I competed in track and field for my four years as well. I enjoyed how GSB encouraged students to step outside their comfort zone to try new clubs or activities.

Kristin: I always loved the ‘balance’ theme—it was always how we raised our kids. Academics, athletics, arts, family time, social time, your own time. Balance. GSB gave our kids that, and along with it, a very caring place.

Did you have a favorite place on campus?

Talia: My favorite place on campus was the reference room in the library because I got to hang out with my friends there every day during the break times.

Kristin: I began volunteering by doing small things at events like Homecoming. My first job was in the pumpkin patch, just to start to get to know people. My family ended our time at GSB in 2024, and by then, I was running the Athletic Boosters tent. I loved being a part of it and spending time at all the locations. All of it was very fulfilling.

How did GSB prepare you for college?

Joe: GSB prepared me for college through all of the writing assignments. I’m very confident in my essay-writing skills, and I have GSB to thank for that! In college, I’m writing close to 80 pages per semester, and it’s much easier to complete with the skills that the teachers at GSB taught me (Derek Martin and Fernando Gomez!).

CJ: GSB prepared me for college extremely well. The rigor of GSB included multiple research papers in length from five to ten pages, as well as difficult exams to test our knowledge base in many courses. The wide array of honor and AP courses challenged me to think deeply and work very hard because the subjects were dense, and classes moved quickly. Princeton University requires that you have impeccable time management skills and be able to juggle many things at once. GSB trained me to handle these obstacles, and from day one, I was well prepared to deal with them.

Kristin: With three kids going through GSB, each starting a year earlier in Middle School than the one before, we had a lot of experiences there! GSB engaged my kids in Middle School and motivated them much more than their previous school had. It prepared them for Upper School, and that prepared them completely for college.

Tell us a little about what you are up to now.

Talia: I am looking forward to going to Endicott College on the north shore of Massachusetts, because it will be a whole new experience for me. I am excited to meet new people.

Joe: I’ll be a junior at Princeton this fall. I’m on the Varsity Track and Field team there. I’m studying politics and am an active member in the Princeton Poker Club.

CJ: I graduated from Princeton in 2022 and finished with an extra three years of track and field eligibility due to an injury and two Covid-19 season cancellations. Therefore, I am currently still competing in the NCAA at the University of South Carolina and pursuing my MBA in Finance. I just finished competing at the Olympic Trials in Oregon, which was an awesome experience.

What would be your advice to current GSB students?

Talia: Get involved! Try new things!

Joe: My advice for current GSB students is to play sports. You can meet some really cool people and dedicate yourself to a grind that shows direct results. Track and field in particular, being a sport dictating by measurements and times, is easy to track how you’re getting better every week.

CJ: My advice to current GSB students would be to try new things and step outside your comfort zone. GSB offers a ton of opportunities from clubs, sports, classes, etc. that can expand your skills and thinking—and that lead to a lot of fun. I got into track and field because I took a chance on a new sport, and I found a love for something I never thought I would have.

Kristin: My advice to current GSB parents—get involved. Volunteer. I loved all the different volunteering positions I was involved in. Athletic Boosters was pure fun—promoting school spirit and being able to support the Athletic Department was very rewarding. And I loved being a part of PAN. Giving tours, reaching out to prospective families, and talking about my children’s experiences on campus, as well as our own, was very easy. Start small and meet people. Get to know the faculty. See how the students walk around happy. GSB is a special place to be a part of.

SP TLIGHT Alumni

A Life in Animal Services

Michelle Wendell ’82

As part of our Alumni Spotlight Series, Gill St. Bernard's recently sat down with Michelle Wendell, a GSB Class of 1982 alum, whose professional path has included the labels entrepreneur, author, and “Alpha Mom.”

You recently returned to campus! Tell us about the experience — what were some of the highlights?

I came to New Jersey to celebrate Mother’s Day with my family; my first trip in five years and the longest I’ve ever been away from my pups. My visit to GSB came about due to the efforts of Assistant Director of Development and Alumni Relations, Katrina Musto. She is the first GSB person to express interest in my unconventional life and genuinely wanted to meet me and have a chat, and the time flew by!

Before parting, Katrina gave my mother, Sondra P’82, ’84, GP ’23, and I a tour of campus. Boy, has it changed! We got to see my brother Mike’s office (Class of 1984)—definitely a highlight—and ended up at the very impressive Student Art Exhibit. There’s a special place in my heart for woodworking and the projects blew me away. My mother was drawn to the beautiful paintings…by kindergartners! As I studied the various Graphic Design art pieces, I found myself wishing there had been such a class when I attended GSB. Kudos to the teachers who provided the projects that enabled all that talent to shine!

How did you land at GSB? When did you start?

By eighth grade I was completely disenchanted with school—I just wanted to dance! My parents recognized the need for me to avoid the traditional, public school system. GSB, in 1978, on the other hand, was my kind of place. I loved, loved, loved being educated by Units rather than six or seven different subjects at once. Not having to face algebra every day of the school year was heaven!

Do you have a favorite GSB memory?

Back in the late 70s-early 80s, students and faculty would meet as a Disciplinary Commitee, and review incidents deemed worthy of investigation. One time a student got in trouble for climbing the outside of Founder’s Hall in order to serenade his girlfriend through the second-floor window while she was in class!

What was your favorite class?

For me, most of the enjoyment came from the teachers themselves (like Stuart Carroll, Rashid, Sue Ely, Cyndy Dunham) and from the other students in the class.

How did GSB prepare you for college?

My GSB education was so far above and beyond those of my college peers. I was excused from attending all but two academic classes my first semester. I remember realizing, for the first time ever, just what a fabulous education I received growing up in New Jersey in general and GSB in particular.

What has your career path been like, and how did you end up where you are today?

For many years, I worked seven jobs at a time, using my smarts and my talents in offices and kitchens to make ends meet. Then at the age of 39, I experienced two incidents within ten days that left me physically unable to continue at that pace. And, as usually is the case, that’s when I found my true calling, my happiness.

I started watching my friends’ dogs, then as word of mouth spread, friends of friends began to inquire about my services. People would bring their pups to my house and leave them for a day, a week, a month; the longest sitting job I did was six months. I had six dogs of my own, and on average, there would be 12-14 pups running around. Several times there were twenty-one!

It’s been more than twenty years now, and I still wouldn’t trade what I do for anything. I exemplify the phrase “your bliss won’t necessarily be found on the road to riches”, but I rarely come across someone as content and happy as I am because of my chosen career—and yes, it is most definitely a career!

In what ways did GSB prepare you for a career with dogs?

Gill taught me that what I did and thought was of value. I was encouraged to be me, to forge my own way, even when that way was different than that of my peers. So that’s what I did with Canine Kid Care. The people at GSB made me feel special, and that’s what I aim to do for other two- and four-legged friends, most especially for my clients.

Do you have any special projects you are working on now?

I wrote and self-published Fierce Love, One Life Given Over to Dog, a two-tome memoir about the joys of domesticated pack living. Now I’m in the process of telling the rest of the story—the deaths of my six pups—in Fierce Life, An Introvert’s Struggles with Deep Grief. I also created and maintain three dog-related websites, which are currently being combined onto the one website, CanineKidCare.com.

What advice would you give to current GSB students?

Put down your cell phone! Take those earbuds out and go outside! Look up! Look around! Connect! Surround yourself with kind, well-meaning, like-minded beings. Make a life for yourself that energizes you! Stay positive.

SP TLIGHT Alumni

A Life in Social Connections

Caitlin & Kelly Stefanick ’13

As part of our Alumni Spotlight Series, Gill St. Bernard's recently sat down with Caitlin and Kelly Stefanick, GSB lifers from the Class of 2013, whose professional paths have taken them from positions in the financial industry to co-founders of an entrepreneurial start up fostering social connections in Manhattan.

How did you land at GSB? When did you start?

We are GSB lifers! We started at Gill in preschool and stayed there all the way through high school. So, it’s not so much that we landed there, but that we really grew up there.

Do you have a favorite GSB memory?

There isn’t one memory for either of us specifically. It’s more of a collection of memories: Stone Soup Days, Homecoming soccer games, Lower School Halloween parades, Turkey Days, finishing AP exams in Upper School. It was all so special, but more than anything, when we talk about our time at Gill, we always come back to how beautiful the campus is and what a nice community of people we were surrounded by there.

What was your favorite class?

This is definitely different for both of us. (Kelly) I loved my Upper School history classes, especially AP Euro and AP U.S. History. (Caitlin) And I loved Calc AB and Calc BC.

Tell us about the Spring Units you took part in. What were they and when? What did you do?

Like everything else, we did all of our units together. We did cooking our freshman year, and we got to take lessons locally at Natirar for that, which was fantastic. Then, we went to Vancouver our sophomore year for hiking, canoeing, and lots of fun and eating. It was back to cooking our junior year, but in Boston for some added experience. And then, we went to Paris our senior year for history, art, and of course, more eating! Or—Caitlin was supposed to go to Paris, but she had broken her leg shortly before and wasn’t able to make it in the end.

How did GSB prepare you for college and the working world?

GSB is very academically rigorous. In terms of reading, writing, and critical thinking, we were prepared for a lot of what the University of Chicago had in store for us. Gill also showed us what it meant to work hard and juggle a lot of things at once.

Tell us about what you do now.

This probably won’t surprise you, but we work together now! After college, Caitlin was an Equity Derivatives trader at J.P. Morgan, and Kelly was in PR at hedge fund Millennium Management. A few years into those jobs, we started The Shaka Club, a social club that hosts events around New York City for young professionals in their 20s, 30s, and beyond. We felt passionately that it should be easier to make new connections with people from similar or different schools, industries, and backgrounds well after your academic career has ended. It’s been amazing to see how that mission has resonated with people, especially amidst the current loneliness epidemic. So, for anyone from the GSB community looking to meet new people in real life, come hang out with us in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and our other locations!

What would be your advice to current GSB students be?

It’s a school with a lot of amazing resources, so put them to work! If there is anything you are interested in exploring, you will be able to find someone in the GSB community who can help. As you know, we think relationships are a key part of learning and development, so make connections with everyone—your teachers, classmates, upperclassmen, underclassmen, etc.!

What are some hobbies you enjoy?

We are both very active, so most of our hobbies are centered around that. We’re big golfers, but we also really enjoy yoga, Pilates, weightlifting, running, and hiking… anything that gets us moving when we don’t have to be at our desks working!

PARENTS' ASSOCIATION PARENTS' ASSOCIATION

Bingo Night

On the evening of Friday, March 1, 2024, the GSB community traveled back in time to an era of chivalry and festivities at another wonderful Bingo Night.

Hosted by the Parents’ Association, this enchanting event, free for all GSB families from Preschool through Twelfth Grade, was a spectacular journey into the heart of medieval times, replete with food, games, and prizes, ensuring an unforgettable experience for the young and old alike.

It was wonderful to see families from all three divisions come together for an evening of fun. We are grateful to the students who volunteered on the night, to our committee for the months of planning, all those who donated prizes, and to the Parents’ Association for their guidance.

– Event Co-Chairs

Jennifer Judd P ’26, ’30, Jennifer Koester P ’30, and Ian Conn P ’28

Campus Connections & Land Appreciation Walk

On a picture-perfect spring morning, GSB Community members joined Home Winds Farm Manager Ned Lincoln and Assistant Director of DEIC and History Teacher Candace Pryor Brown P ’27 on April 10, 2024, for a PA-hosted Land Appreciation Walk around the four corners of our campus.

Participants learned about the land history of GSB’s 208 acres including information about the Lenni-Lenape people, the first stewards of the land, and they gained deeper appreciation to our connection to the beautiful gardens, orchards, fields, and flocks.

ASSOCIATION ASSOCIATION

Comedy Night

Gill St. Bernard's hosted its annual auction FUN-raiser presenting comedian Ben Bailey in the Matthews Theater in the Performing Arts & Community Center on Friday, April 12, 2024.

Head of School Sid Rowell opened the evening by expressing his gratitude to the GSB community for their unwavering support. Rowell also took a moment to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of cochairs Suzanne Scott P ’24 and Melissa Toledo P ’24, whose dedication and commitment were instrumental in making the event a success.

Following the introductions, guests were entertained by special guest Ben Bailey. A fellow New Jerseyan, Bailey drove the smash hit series “Cash Cab” for over 15 years, and kept the audience entertained with his improv and comedic prowess.

Thanks to the entire GSB community, nearly $250,000 was raised from ticket sales, the silent and live auctions, and the paddle raise for the GSB Fund, a remarkable achievement that will have a profound impact on the school community.

It was an honor to support GSB in this fun community event, and as parents of the Class of 2024, the time together was even sweeter.

– Co-Chairs Suzanne Scott P ’24 and Melissa Toledo P ’24

Year End Celebration

With the school year winding down, the GSB Parents’ Association welcomed families on campus on May 15, 2024, to commemorate an amazing year of events, service, and community at the PA Year-End Celebration Breakfast.

In this annual event, GSB families gathered in the serene setting of the GSB chapel where they enjoyed a catered donut truck and coffee latte vendor courtesy of Co-Chairs Emily Maillet Kellogg P ’29 and Michelle Lawse P ’32.

Head of School Sid Rowell took to the podium to thank every member of the Parents' Association for another fantastic year of successful events and to emphasize the wonderful leadership displayed by PA President Lauren Salko P ’27, ’30.

The goals of the Parents' Association are to enhance the Gill St. Bernard's experience for all parents and to foster goodwill and friendship through community-building opportunities and events.

PerformingARTS

Upper School Spring Musical:

She

Loves Me

GSB Players captivated audiences in three transformative performances of the beloved Broadway classic, She Loves Me, as part of their 2024 Spring Musical.

After this year’s performance, longtime Theater Director Paul Canada will have brought the sweet melodies and witty banter of She Loves Me to the GSB stage not once, not twice, but a remarkable three times — four, if you include the 1997 GSB Community Players' production — capturing the hearts of audiences and nurturing a true theatrical tradition.

Middle School Spring Musical:

The Pirates of Penzance Jr.

Shiver me timbers! GSB Middle Schoolers voyaged to the Matthews Theater, battened down the hatches, and blew audiences away in this year's Middle School Musical, The Pirates of Penzance, Jr.!

24 cast and (pirate) crew members set sail with Director Todd Ross ’94, P ’23, ’26 to perform two dastardly performances in front of family and friends in the

Rising Star Awards from the Paper Mill Playhouse

Congratulations to the cast and crew of She Loves Me on six nominations and one honorable mention in the 2024 Paper Mill Playhouse Rising Star Awards!

• Outstanding Achievement in Hair and Makeup

• Outstanding Achievement in Costume Design

• Outstanding Achievement in Set Design

• Outstanding Achievement by an Ensemble or Choruss

• Outstanding Achievement in Musical Direction

• Outstanding Achievement in Direction

• Honorable Mention Outstanding Performer in a Male-Identified Leading Role: John Besjak as “Georg Nowack”

And the winners are...

Outstanding Achievement in Costume Design - Upper School Performing Arts

Instructor Paul H. Canada

Outstanding Achievement in Musical Direction - Upper School Performing Arts

Instructor Paul H. Canada and Upper School Music Instructor Jack Williams III

K-12 Spring Art Show FineARTS

It was an amazing display of creativity and skill as GSB community members toured the SBS Pavilion on May 9, 2024, in the grand opening of the K-12 Spring Art Show.

In this annual event, the GSB Fine Arts department proudly displayed signature artwork from students across Lower, Middle, and Upper School divisions in a professional gallery setting. From painting, ceramics, woodworking, photography, digital media, and much more, each art piece on display illustrated the dedication students have put into their work throughout the semester.

The show also featured handmade pottery for sale, a fully functional guitar created in Bob Ort's '89 woodworking class, and Sustained Investigation Portfolio's from AP students who stood proudly by their work to discuss what inspired their impressive year- long series.

MUSICat GSB

Spring at Gill St. Bernard’s brings a vibrant season of music that fills the campus with the sounds of student talent and creativity. Our thriving music program provides diverse opportunities for students across all grade levels—from Preschool to Grade 12—to explore and develop their musical passions. Whether through instrumental ensembles, group choirs, or solo performances, students have countless ways to express themselves and grow as musicians. As each new season arrives, our community celebrates the strength and spirit of GSB's music program and the dedication of our young performers.

Congratulations to our musicians on a wonderful series of performances which included:

April 16, 2024: LS and MS Spring Piano Recital

April 27, 2024: Upper School Spring Choir Concert

May 2, 2024: Early Childhood Spring Concert ABC Sing with Me

May 8, 2024: Middle School Spring Concert

May 10, 2024: Middle School Instrumental Concert

May 16, 2024: Lower School Spring Music Concert

ATHLETICS

GILL ST. BERNARD'S NATIONAL LETTER OF INTENT SIGNING DAY 2023

ATHLETICS 2023

During GSB's annual National Letter of Intent and National Signing Day ceremony, seven senior student-athletes from the Class of 2024 committed to compete at the Division I, II, or III level in college next season.

GILL ST. BERNARD'S CELEBRATES FOUR ATHLETES IN 2024 SPRING SIGNING DAY

After holding its annual National Signing Day ceremony this past fall, GSB hosted its Spring Athletic Signing Day this week to commemorate four additional senior student-athletes who will continue their playing careers in college next year.

Brooke Baisley (Boston University, Basketball)

John DiGregorio (Purdue University, Baseball)

Declan Gillen (Wagner College, Boys' Lacrosse)

Lance Hollingshead (University of Notre Dame, Golf)

Matthew Park (Quinnipiac University, Baseball)

Michael Scarpati (Hobart College, Boys' Lacrosse)

Dylan Sempervive (Washington College, Baseball)

Colin Chou (Babson College, Baseball)

Samantha Leo (Ursinus College, Track & Field)

Daniel Spataro (Dickinson College, Boys' Soccer)

Chayse Stolarski (Stevens Institute of Technology, Boys' Soccer)

OLYMPIC DREAMS:

’14 & CJ LICATA ’18 COMPETE FOR A SPOT IN PARIS 2024

With 8.1 billion people in the world, the likelihood that an individual athlete will reach the level of an Olympian is nearly impossible. This year, only 10,500 athletes competed in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games—which translates to one in 770,000 people or .0000013% of the population.

At Gill St. Bernard’s, however, the nearly impossible can become possible, and we are beyond proud to share that not one, but two, of our graduates were selected to compete in the Olympic Trials in June: Dana Klein ’14 raced in the women’s 3000-meter steeplechase and CJ Licata ’18 threw in the shot put.

Both Olympic Trials were held at the historic Hayward Field at the University of Oregon, and while neither athlete advanced to the final stage of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, they both proved that hard work and a lifetime of dedication can pay off. GSB had the opportunity to connect with Dana and CJ after the event, and they shared an up-close and personal view of the experience.

Congratulations to both, and we can’t wait to see what you accomplish next!

DANA KLEIN ’14

What was the Olympic Trial experience like?

This was my second time racing at the Olympic Trials (I also competed in the women’s 3000-meter steeplechase in the 2021 Olympic Trial); however, this time felt different.

In 2021, the stadium had capacity restrictions due to Covid, and it was half full. This time, there wasn't an empty seat! The stadium was electric, filled with screaming fans.

The atmosphere actually had me the most nervous. I've only competed in environments like that a handful of times, and I was worried it might feel overwhelming. Standing on the starting line, I tried to channel the excitement positively. When they announced my name and I saw my face on the jumbotron, I imagined waving directly to my family, friends, teammates, and coach, who were watching in the stadium or on TV, rather than thinking about the 12,000 screaming fans. Eugene, Oregon, known as "Tracktown, USA," certainly showed up for the occasion!

Were there any obstacles you had to overcome to arrive at the Olympic level?

Definitely. My Olympic dreams started while at GSB. In my senior year, I won the NJSIAA Meet of Champions in the 3200-meter, and my performance ranked me 13th in the country for high school girls. That was an eye-opening moment. I still have the letter that Dave deWolfe, the former cross country and track & field coach at GSB, wrote to me when I graduated. The last line was, "See you at the Olympic Trials!" I remember laughing about it at the time, but it planted a seed.

During high school, I saw a direct correlation between my effort and my results. The harder I worked, the better my outcomes. I naively assumed, but I learned the hard way in college, that it doesn't always work that way. Running at Yale was an amazing experience—I met my best friends and made lifelong memories—but my personal results fell below my

DANA KLEIN

expectations for what I thought I was capable of athletically. I never qualified for the NCAA Championships on the track, never won a conference title, and only marginally improved from my best high school performances.

I remember my college coach sitting me down one day and saying, "Your running doesn't have to stop when you graduate. You can keep doing this and competing as long as you want, whether you have a professional sponsor or not."

I took her advice and kept running after graduation. I used my final year of NCAA eligibility while getting a Master's degree at the University of San Francisco, and in 2019, I achieved my next breakthrough. I made it to the NCAA Championships that year and ran personal best times in every event. My coach at the University of San Francisco still coaches me today, and he further instilled the belief in me that I could make it to the Olympic Trials.

In 2021, I started running a new event, the 3,000-meter steeplechase, and I embarked on the next phase of my running journey, resulting in two appearances at the Trials! Now, I have new life factors—like having a full-time job and being more injury-prone in my late 20s. I'm still having a lot of fun with training and competing, and it adds a lot to my life. At 28, I'm the fastest I've ever been—I just broke 4:30 in the mile for the first time this July—and I hope to continue reaching for big goals into my 30s.

How has the competitive landscape changed since your time at GSB?

Women's track and field has deepened significantly since 2014, especially in the 3,000-meter steeplechase, which only became an event for women at the Olympic level in the 2008 Beijing Games (men have been running it at the Olympics since 1920). My personal best in the steeplechase (9:46) would have placed me #7 in the country at the 2012 Olympic Trials. This year, that time ranked #16 at the Trials. As a fan of the sport, I love to see that growth. There have been many breakthroughs in sports science, and women are training differently now than they did 10 years ago—it's exciting! For a long time, women believed the myth that peak performance occurred in their mid-20s. Now we're seeing women run their lifetime bests into their mid-30s. I hope to be part of that movement and truly believe my fastest days are ahead of me.

CJ LICATA ’18

What

was the Olympic Trial experience like?

The Olympic Trials experience was an awesome one. I competed against the top 24 shot put throwers in the United States at Hayward Field at the University of Oregon. It was an experience that represented the culmination of many long and difficult years of training to get to this point. Specifically, this past year was the toughest one.

Were there any obstacles you had to overcome to arrive at the Olympic level?

Yes. I got reconstructive pectoralis surgery on my right arm in June 2023, which is a very brutal injury for a throwing athlete.

I had to take the fall semester off from school to have full concentration on rehab and getting back to 100%. It was challenging, as pectoral injuries can take six months to return to normal activity, let alone throwing a shot put as aggressively as possible. However, I kept at it, and eventually I figured things out. Once I was back on the field, I had a breakthrough season that led to an Olympic Trials bid.

Unfortunately, a week before the NCAA Championship meet, I got appendicitis. The resulting surgery put me in weaker health for both that meet and the Olympic Trials. It was a great experience, but I look forward to next time when I can compete at my peak.

How has the competitive landscape changed since your time at GSB?

The competitive landscape changed dramatically from GSB to college and then to the Olympic level. At the Olympic Trials, you are no longer a big fish in a small pond. Your competitors are represented by not just your fellow athletes in the NCAA but by athletes across the entire United States. There were athletes as old as 35 years old competing in the shot put, and to me, this is the best part about the sport. It does not discriminate on any factor. Distance is the objective.

I look forward to competing for many more years, and I will always remember that GSB planted the first seeds of my track and field career.

SPORTSRECAPS

PERSONAL RECORDS AND CAREER MILESTONES

VARSITY TRACK AND FIELD SEASON

Without question, the dedication and commitment to improvement defined the Gill St. Bernard's Varsity Track and Field team during the 2024 season. The culmination of all that hard work was front and center at the NJSIAA Non-Public B Group State Championship, where each of the twenty athletes who attended set a PR in their event.

The accomplishments of the season resulted in Samantha Leo ’24 being named to the 1st Team Skyland Conference Mountain Division in Long Jump, and Ema Hercules ’25 being named for the 3200-meter.

GILL ST. BERNARD'S BOYS' VARSITY LACROSSE TEAM CAPTURES DOUBLE CROWN

The 2024 season has been a historic and triumphant journey for the Gill St. Bernard's Boys' Varsity Lacrosse team.

Under the leadership of Head Coach Byron Collins, the Knights have solidified their place as a powerhouse in New Jersey high school lacrosse, capturing both the NJISAA Prep B State Championship—for the first time in program history—and the NJSIAA Non-Public B State Championship in back-to-back seasons. The winning 14-6 season (4-0 against Skyland division rivals) boasted the most wins in a season to date and was underscored by finishing No. 1 in the Skyland Conference, Raritan Division.

The Knights kicked off their championship run by securing their first-ever NJISAA Prep B State Championship on May 20, 2024, with a resounding 11-3 victory over Rutgers Prep. Building on their Prep B success, the Knights captured their second consecutive NJSIAA Non-Public B State Championship on June 6, 2024, with a commanding 15-6 win over Rutgers Prep.

Offensive highlights included junior Brendan Schwalb recording his 100th career goal during the season.

With Assistant Coach Sal Tromonda being named NJSIAA Non-Public Assistant Coach of the Year and New Jersey Boys’ Lacrosse Coach of the Year, and Collins returning as Head Varsity Coach, the future looks bright for the GSB Knights.

GILL ST. BERNARD'S VARSITY GIRLS’ LACROSSE FOCUSES ON FUNDAMENTALS DURING REBUILDING SEASON

The Gill St. Bernard's Varsity Girls' Lacrosse team showcased incredible determination and spirit over the spring 2024 season, and despite finishing with a losing 2-14 record, the athletes established a supportive culture whereby they constantly worked together, even during tough times.

The season's standout moment came with the team's first win at Boonton, a thrilling 10-8 match up that saw the score see-sawing between the teams until the final whistle.

GILL ST. BERNARD'S VARSITY GOLF TEAM ACHIEVES A SEASON OF MILESTONES

The Gill St. Bernard’s Varsity Golf team, known for its close-knit camaraderie and exceptional talent, finished the 2024 season with remarkable achievements.

The season's pinnacle occurred on Monday, April 22, at the Neshanic Valley Golf Course when senior Lance Hollingshead captured his third individual Somerset County Golf Championship.

Hollingshead, a GSB lifer who will continue his golfing career at the University of Notre Dame next fall, shot a stunning three-under-par to secure his second consecutive title. Although he won the county tournament as a freshman in 2021, a playoff loss as a sophomore prevented him from achieving four straight titles. Senior Porter Clark also delivered a commendable performance, shooting an 80 to place 16th out of 45 golfers.

This triumph followed Hollingshead's impressive seventhplace finish out of 122 golfers at the NJSIAA Tournament of Champions at the Raritan Valley Country Club in Bridgewater, NJ. His one-under-par (71) score crowned him the NJSIAA Non-Public B Sectional Champion.

As a team, the Knights showcased their prowess at the NJSIAA Non-Public North B Sectional Championship, securing third place out of eight teams.

BOYS’ VARSITY TENNIS NABS SECOND PLACE FINISH IN SKYLAND CONFERENCE

The Gill St. Bernard's Varsity Boys' Tennis team wrapped up an impressive 2024 season with a commendable 9-7 winning record, securing a strong 2nd place finish in the Skyland Conference - Valley Division.

Team Captain Jack Dahler ’24 finished out his final season at GSB with an 11-5 record at first singles. Dahler played first singles throughout his GSB career, facing the top players from every team in the highly competitive Somerset County area and amassing a 30-17 lifetime record.

Peter Frantz-Pendell ’24 achieved an impressive 11-5 record at second singles over the season, and third singles player, Matthew Segal ’24, finished with a 6-5 record. Fellow seniors Bennett Lavoie and Drew Pereira posted a 9-4 season record at first doubles.

GSB SOFTBALL NABS THIRD PREP B TITLE IN THREE YEARS

By all accounts, the 2024 Gill St. Bernard’s Softball (9-14) season is a tale of two seasons.

The girls started the season at 4-9 while losing five of those games by two runs or less, and they finished the season playing .500 softball in the last 10 games.

Those challenges aside, GSB Softball achieved significant accomplishments—winning the third Prep B title in as

many years for the first time in school history. The team also advanced to the county quarter finals for the first time since 2022 and played in the third state sectional semifinal in the last four years.

GSB BASEBALL TAKES HOME PREP B CHAMPIONSHIP

The Gill St. Bernard's Baseball team (11-13-1) displayed great resilience in 2024, rebounding from a slow start to win a Prep B Championship and to advance to the state sectional semi-finals.

After losing their first four games, the team had a turnaround in early May, winning five-out-of-six games, including a dramatic run to the Prep B Championship. Entering the tournament as the #5seed, GSB defeated #4 Morristown Beard and top-seeded Newark Academy to set up a title game matchup with Montclair-Kim berley. The Knights defeated the Cougars, 7-3, to capture their first Prep B title since 2015.

Senior and Purdue-commit Johnny DiGregorio led the team in most offensive categories, reaching the prolific 100-hit milestone mid-season and finishing with 127 hits for his career. He also established a school record for home runs with 14.

Fellow senior and Babson-commit Colin Chou also had a fantastic season, earning a spot in the NJSIAA Senior All-Star Game, which honors the best 100 players in the class of 2024. Sophomore Jack Markovich represented GSB at the Garden State Games, which showcases the 100 best un derclassmen in New Jersey.

PROFILES Community Member Faculty Notes

&

Chair of Excellence

During the 2024 Commencement Ceremony, Head of School Sid Rowell announced that Fine Arts Department Chair Sarah Isusi P ’27 was named as this year’s recipient of the St. Bernard’s Chair of Excellence in Teaching Award.

The Chair of Excellence was established in 1991 by a group of St. Bernard’s School alumni in order to honor outstanding teachers at GSB and to recognize the profound impact that a good teacher can have on a student.

Mrs. Isusi joins a long list of faculty members who have been bestowed this honor for her leadership, creativity, enthusiasm, sensitivity, and professionalism inside the classroom.

Current faculty members who have previously received the Chair of Excellence include:

Manny Hercules

Frank Corrado

GSB Faculty

Fred Corona

Diane Lipnickey

Paul Canada

Anne Wilson

Bob Orr

Denise Konner

Mary Tuohy

Len Grabowski

From L to R: Head of School Sid Rowell, Fine Arts Department Chair Sarah Isusi P ’27, Math Department Chair Manuel Hercules P ’25, ’30, ’36, ’37.

GSB Welcomes New Faculty & Staff for the 2024-2025

School Year

Genesis Aguado, Upper School Mathematics and Computer Instructor

Beth Arentsen, Middle School Music Instructor

Kevin Bellotti, Upper School History Instructor

Daniel Bradshaw, Upper School English Instructor

Joan Braulio, Upper School Spanish Instructor

Paul Caruso, English Department Chair

Kathryn Davis, Upper School Ceramics Instructor

Kiana Frazier, Admission Associate

Jessica Galati, Lower School / Middle School Counselor

Corrie Kennedy, US History Instructor and MS Humanities

As we embark on another exciting academic year, we are thrilled to introduce the newest members of the Gill St. Bernard's school community. Each brings a wealth of experience, enthusiasm, and unique perspectives that will enrich our school.

David Malito, Upper School Physics Instructor

Samantha Martinez, Middle School Learning Support Specialist

Ian McElroy, Upper School Latin Instructor

Conor Pierson, Lower School Instructor (Third-Grade)

Lisa Rodriguez, Upper School French Instructor

Julie Snee, Kindergarten Reading Specialist

Debra Swankosky, Prekindergarten Assistant

Kristen Tamburro, Middle School Humanities Instructor

Heather Truscinski, Director of Advancement

Candice Tupajic, Biology/Environmental Science Instructor

We are excited to see how these new team members will contribute to the growth and success of our students and school. Please join us in welcoming them to Gill St. Bernard’s!

Not photographed: Kevin Bellotti, Kathryn Davis, Corrie Kennedy, Julie Snee

Pictured Back Row, Left to Right: Samantha Martinez, Beth Arentsen, Ian McElroy, Daniel Bradshaw, David Malito, Conor Pierson, Joan Braulio, Genesis Aguado, Lisa Rodriguez

Pictured Front Row, Left to Right: Kiana Frazier, Jessica Galati, Candice Tupajic, Heather Truscinski, Debra Swankosky, Paul Caruso, Kristen Tamburro

New Leaders At GSB

Ann Marie Blackman

Gill St. Bernard’s has named Ann Marie Blackman P ’13, ’16 as Director of Admission and Financial Aid.

Blackman joined the Gill St. Bernard’s community in 2000 when her oldest son, Nick ’13, enrolled in Kindergarten. Her younger son, Dylan ’16, soon followed, joining the GSB Prekindergarten in 2002. As a new parent, Blackman quickly became involved in different aspects of the community including the Parents’ Association, the Parents’ Admission Network (PAN), and the Athletic Boosters Club.

In 2005, she was asked to fill in as the Office of Admission’s office manager, and the rest—as they say—is history. For the next two decades, she was an integral part of GSB’s admission office, introducing prospective students and their families to GSB and assisting them as they navigated the admission process.

In 2018, Blackman was named the Associate Director of Admission and Assistant Director of Financial Assistance, a role she held for six years before most recently assuming the director role.

Heather Truscinski

Gill St. Bernard’s has named Heather Truscinski P ’29, ’32 as Director of Advancement. Truscinski, a seasoned professional with an impressive background in development, communication, and alumni relations, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success in fundraising and community engagement.

Truscinski joins Gill St. Bernard's from Collegiate School in New York, where she served as the Director of Development since 2015. Before her time at Collegiate School, Truscinski held leadership positions at Pace University, where she served as Associate Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations, and Columbia Law School, where she held the Executive Director of Development and Alumni Relations role.

With a Bachelor of Arts in Post-Soviet Studies and English from Fordham University and graduate work in Higher Education Administration at Columbia University, Truscinski is well-equipped to lead Gill St. Bernard's advancement efforts. Her commitment to fostering strong community ties and her innovative approach to fundraising will undoubtedly benefit the school as it continues to grow and thrive.

New Board of Trustees Members for 2024-2025 School Year

Gill St. Bernard's School is pleased to announce the nomination of two distinguished individuals to the Board of Trustees for the upcoming 2024-2025 school year: Michael F. Golden P ’99, ’02, GP ’37 and Elizabeth Welch Gustafson P ’20, ’22.

Michael Golden

Michael Golden was a previous board member for eight years and is once again joining the board as his grandson prepares to enter Kindergarten at GSB this September.

Michael's deep ties to GSB are evident through his two children, Cassandra ’99 and Justin ’02. Cassandra attended Drew University and is now a substitute teacher and an assistant coach for the women's soccer team at GSB. She is also a member of the GSB Athletic Hall of Fame. Justin, a University of Pennsylvania alumnus, was the captain of the GSB soccer team and twice elected MVP.

Professionally, Michael joined the Stephen Gould Corporation in 1971. He was promoted to President in 1977 and has served as CEO since 1980.

Elizabeth Gustafson

Elizabeth Gustafson, known to many as Beth, is an artist and crafter with a passion for all things creative.

Beth has been a vibrant part of the GSB community, actively participating in the Parents’ Association and the Athletic Booster Club during her children's time at the school. Her daughter Ellie ’20 performed as the GSB Knight for two years and played on the golf team, while her son Joseph ’22, known as JW, was a member of the lacrosse team.

GSB Bid Farewell to Four Board of Trustee Members

At the close of the 2023-2024 school year, Gill St. Bernard’s bid farewell to four Board of Trustee members who rotated off the GSB board: Doug Matthews, Lee Amoroso, Marcella Criscola, and Steve Polachi.

Thank you to all our Board of Trustee members for their selfless service to the school and to our students. The future is brighter because of your dedication and tireless contributions.

Doug Matthews P ’16, ’18, ’24

When Doug Matthews entered the GSB community in 2001 as a Preschool parent to his eldest child, Caty ’16, and met the newly appointed Head of School Sid Rowell, neither imagined that the introduction would turn into a twenty-year working relationship.

“Matthews’ service as a trustee was simply remarkable,” said Rowell. “Between capital campaigns, he chaired our Development Committee, and then accepted the responsibility to chair the board—all the while working and being a father to his three children, Caty ‘16, Amity ’18, and Brad ’24.”

During his twenty years on the board—and serving the last five as the Chair—Matthews chaired two capital campaigns. The first was a significant undertaking: to fund and build the Hockenbury Building, the signature academic building for the Upper School. The second was equally monumental: the design and construction of the Performing Arts and Community Center.

Commitment to GSB ran as a theme throughout the family, and Matthews’ wife, Ann, dedicated countless hours to the school’s mission as well. Over the last two decades, she stepped up to serve as President of the Parents’ Association and to chair several different PA committees.

From L to R: Head of School Sid Rowell, Board of Trustee Chairman Doug Matthews P ’18, ’20, ’24

Lee Amoroso P ’11, ’13, ’19

Board of Trustee member Lee Amoroso wore many hats during her years at Gill St. Bernard’s. Not only did she serve as President of the Parents’ Association, but she chaired various PA committees, worked in the GSB Development Office, and was a passionate supporter of the theater program.

Her work behind the scenes of the winter musical earned her several Paper Mill Playhouse Rising Star Award nominations for Outstanding Hair and Make-Up Achievement, and in 2014, she won the award for her work on Godspell. She also served on the Board of Trustees for six years.

During her last three years as a trustee, Amoroso chaired the board’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Community (DEIC) Committee and placed incredible focus on promoting DEIC at the school.

Marcella Criscola P ’25, ’26, ’29

Marcella Criscola served two terms on the Board of Trustees, and during her time, she rarely slowed down.

“Marcella was another wonderful trustee who also volunteered extensively as a parent,” Head of School Sid Rowell said. “During her two terms on the board, she was a passionate supporter of Home Winds Farms and a member of the Building and Grounds Committee while also leading the efforts for the Family / Homecoming Day and co-chairing the Fashion Show.”

In addition to supporting existing efforts, Criscola was fundamental in introducing a new tradition to GSB: the annual Fishing Derby at Lake Betsy. As a mother to three daughters, she is an avid supporter of girls in sports, and she will undoubtedly be spotted on the GSB sidelines this season.

Steven Polachi P ’08, ’11, ’14

Steve Polachi joined the Gill St. Bernard’s Board of Trustees in 2015, the same year that GSB purchased Home Winds Farm.

From that moment on, Polachi became one of Home Winds Farm’s biggest supporters. He believed that the addition of the farm was one of the greatest achievements of the school, and for the next nine years, he made it his mission to keep the farm at the forefront.

Polachi also served as Chair of the Building and Grounds Committee, where his personal gardening hobby was put to good use.

From L to R: Board of Trustee Chairman Doug Matthews P ’18, ’20, ’24, Lee Amoroso P ’11, ’13, ’19, Head of School Sid Rowell

Marcella Criscola P ’25, ’26, ’29

From L to R: Head of School Sid Rowell, Steven Polachi P ’08, ’11, ’14, Board of Trustee Chairman Doug Matthews P ’18, ’20, ’24

Upper School World Language Teacher

Carrie Grabowski Retires After Twenty-Four Dedicated Years

Gill St. Bernard’s recognized longtime faculty member Carrie Grabowski’s P ’08, ’12 retirement announcement with a standing ovation at the Faculty, Staff, and Trustees Year-End Celebration on Friday, May 3, 2024.

Grabowski’s relationship with GSB began in 2000, as a long-term substitute teacher in the Lower School. With a Bachelor of Arts in French from Princeton University and a Master of Science in Nursing from Columbia University, it wasn’t long before Grabowski moved from part-time teaching in the Lower School to fulltime teaching—this time instructing Middle and Upper School students in French. Grabowski’s enthusiastic dedication to her students extended well beyond her classroom walls. During her twenty-four GSB tenure, she led Spring Unit trips to France, Peru, Panama, and Montreal (countless times), as well as advising the Model UN program.

After a two-plus decade career, retirement calls, and with it the promise of spending more time with her children, Peter ’08 and Katie ’12, daughter-in-law Bridget, and granddaughter Sadie. Husband and Upper School Science Instructor Len Grabowski, who reached the third decade mark with GSB this year, will continue teaching.

Former Chair of the Board Janine Udoff Receives Lindabury-Thomas Award

Former Chair of the Gill St. Bernard’s Board of Trustees, Janine Udoff P '16, '17, '21, '23, was honored at the Faculty, Staff, and Trustees Year-End Celebration on Friday, May 3, 2024, when she was presented with the prestigious Lindabury-Thomas Award by Head of School Sid Rowell.

Udoff began her relationship with the school as a parent volunteer, helping out in the classroom when her children were young and getting involved in fundraising efforts for the school as they got older. Over her time with the school, she signed up to be the Parent Chair for the Annual Fund, Vice President of the Parents’ Association, Co-Chair of Homecoming / Family Day, and School Room Parent.

Beginning in 2009, she served on the Board of Trustees, and in 2011 and 2012, she assumed the Chair of the Committee on Trustees and the Chair of the Strategic Planning Committee roles, respectively.

Her dedication to the school and to her board service resulted in her being named Chair of the Board in 2015, the first woman in GSB history to do so. She held the Chair position until 2019, when she rotated off the board and assumed an Honorary Chair role.

The Lindabury-Thomas award is given annually to a former trustee in recognition of outstanding service to Gill St. Bernard’s and is considered the highest honor that the school confers on a trustee. Named in honor of Richard Lindabury, an original trustee and one of the founders of St. Bernard’s School, and Henrietta “Retty” Thomas, a dedicated trustee and GSB Board Chair, the award recognizes trustees who go above and beyond to support the school.

From L to R: Head of School Sid Rowell, Janine Udoff P '16, '17, '21, '23, Board of Trustee Chairman Doug Matthews P ’18, ’20, ’24

From L to R: Upper School World Language Teacher Carrie Grabowski’s P ’08, ’12 and Upper School Science Instructor Len Grabowski P ’08, ’12

The 2025-2026 Gill St. Bernard's School admission application is open!

At GSB, we are committed to providing a balanced, diverse, and secure community that nurtures students academically, socially, and ethically. Our mission is to prepare them not just for college, but for a meaningful and impactful life beyond.

Ready to embark on an extraordinary journey with us? Apply today and be a part of a community that values growth, character, and lifelong learning.

Application Deadlines:

Sibling Admission Application Due (for siblings of current GSB students): January 10, 2025

Regular Admission Application Due: January 10, 2025

Notes CLASS Notes

The place where you find out what's going on with your fellow GSB Alumni!

Nancy Donhauser ’77 submitted a photo of her celebrating her 65th birthday and shares that “Attached is a photo of me celebrating my 65th birthday. Standing next to me is Mrs. Jackie Gorton who was the GSB Upper School Librarian from 1974 - 1996. Jackie and I attend the same church and have been in a Bible study together. It was only a few years ago that we realized our GSB connection. She’s now become a dear friend, although I do teasingly sometimes call her "Mrs. Gorton from the library."

Mike Morris ’77 stopped by GSB in September as he made his way across the country from Indianapolis, where he resides now. He invited GSB friend, Huston Ripley, to tour the campus with him, and they enjoyed reliving their youth and taking in all of the updates to the campus. Mike even brought his GSB Student ID card, which he still proudly has!

Robert (Bobby) Sorensen ’78 shares that he recently published a book of poetry, Age of 23, available on Amazon. He generously mailed two copies to the GSB Library, where they are available for students and employees to enjoy.

From L to R: Nancy Donhauser ’77 and GSB Upper School Librarian Jackie Gorton

Mike Morris ’77 visiting the GSB campus this past September.

A mini-Class of 1981 reunion in New Jersey: From L to R: Chris Burt, Greg Jones, and Phil O’ Cone.

Sean Baker’s ’89 film “Anora” won the top prize, the Palme D'Or, at the Cannes Film Festival. It's a great achievement which places Sean among the best filmmakers today, and the win for “Anora” marked a coronation for Baker, the 53-year-old indie filmmaker of “The Florida Project" who used iPhones to make his 2015 film “Tangerine.”

According to the New York Times, “A critical favorite, “Anora” takes a nonjudgmental attitude toward its protagonist, played by Mikey Madison in a go-for-broke breakthrough performance that critics have praised. George Lucas, who received an honorary award at the ceremony, presented the Palme d’Or to Baker.”

Brooke Donaldson ’08 writes, “My wife, Candice, and I welcomed our son, Bromley Roy Donaldson, on May 10, 2024, and our daughter, Brynlan Joy Donaldson, on June 28, 2024. I carried our son and my wife carried our daughter. Joyfully, we are all home and doing well.

Grant Clark ’06 joined GSB for a “guest artist” presentation during the Spring Unit 2024 segment, “Creative Hustle” led by Tory Stapleton ’06 and GSB Faculty.

Cate Vieira ’10, who currently lives in Australia, came to visit GSB in February and saw a few GSB friends while back in the US.

Sean Baker ’89 after receiving the Palme D’Or at the Cannes Film Festival

Director George Lucas presenting Sean Baker ’89 with the Palme D’Or at the Cannes Film Festival.

Brooke Donaldson ’08 and wife, Candice, with babies Bromley and Brynlan.

From L to R: Cate Vieira ’10 and Jake Friedman ’10

From L to R: Daina Newman (Raiffe) ’10, Bianca Noll ’10, Kaitlin Filley ’10, and Cate Vieira ’10

Cate Vieria ’10 caught up with Pat Shaw ’10 in Washington, DC

Alexis Molnar ’13 contacted us to share a bit of news. “My new Netflix show, ERIC, dropped worldwide on May 30, 2024. It stars Benedict Cumberbatch, Gaby Hoffmann, McKinley Belcher III amongst many other familiar faces. I'm so excited for everyone to see the hard work we've done on this project!

ERIC takes place in 1980’s Manhattan and tells the story of puppeteer Vincent (Cumberbatch) as he deals with narcissism and grief over the disappearance of his 9-year-old son on the way to school. The show is a thrilling story about socioeconomic issues facing NYC while also realizing the real monsters might not be under the bed.

I went to school for musical theatre at Pace University but have been working as a professional actor since 2009. I’ve been involved with many projects such as Dear Evan Hansen, RISE, among many others, and I have been performing for years. In my off time, I am a Pilates instructor in Brooklyn. Luckily, I still audition and work and develop my own devised cabarets throughout the city.”

Betsy (Swartz) Bender ’11

shared, “Passing along the photo of the GSB alums (and my mom who was a faculty member for YEARS) from my wedding June 14, 2024, at Downingtown Country Club in Downingtown, PA. Thank you again for letting us borrow the flag for such a fun photo op!”

From L to R: Jane Harrington ’11, Sara Swartz (my mom and former teacher at GSB), Meaghan Moriarty ’11, Myself : Betsy (Swartz) Bender ’11, My wife: Mackenzie Bender, Sydney Sherman ’11, Mark Small ’11, Kyle Swartz ’13, Kendall Murtha ’11 (sitting on the ground)

Alexis Molnar ’13 in a scene from her new movie, ERIC.

Tim DiBisceglie ’13 and his wife, Maggie DiBisceglie, at their wedding.

From L to R: GSB Athletic Trainer Glen Depino, Campbell Wentworth-Ping '13, Tim DiBisceglie ’13, Tony Bednarsky P ’08, ’10, ’14, ’17, Justin Durcan '14, Bijan Eizadkhah '13, and Mike Renna '13 at the wedding of Tim DiBisceglie

Dana Klein ’14 returned to GSB for a tour of campus this summer. It was her first time to campus in years, as she lives in San Francisco, and she was just recently in the Olympic Trials.

The Mystery is Solved!

Luke Fischer ’16 writes, “I moved out to Jackson Hole after graduating from law school in May. A group of us from the Class of 2016 do an annual spring ski trip out west, and this year they all came to visit me in Jackson."

Judy (Ostroff) Leshner ’76 wrote “What a fun surprise to see my artwork in the Gill St Bernards Magazine "Help Solve the Mystery.” It's a great feeling to know that Isabel has enjoyed it all this time. I made this print in an art class with a favorite teacher: Karen McDermott. It was around 1976, and GSB was using the unit system. For a young artist like me, six-week units of creating and studying art was a great way to learn.

I was so influenced by my wonderful art teachers, Karen and Pauline Lurie, that I spent my life as an artist: first as a designer and importer of Balinese art and then as a high school art teacher for 20 years. I kept that carved linoleum block and printed it with my own students. Thank you so much for reaching out with this picture; it means a lot. If you would like to contact me or see more of my art, go to JudyLeshner.com.”

GSB Class of 2016 ski trip to Jackson Hole (From L to R): Greg Niccolai, Morgan Margolis, Luke Fischer, Carolyn Najarian, Sydney Kramer, Jackie Roettger, McKenna Lieblich

Travian McNair ‘21 returned to GSB to assist Head Librarian Kristen Armstrong P ’21, ’29, ’36 with her Spring Unit “Let's Get Moving”

Dana Klein ’14 in front of the GSB Conger building.

Emily Malliet Kellogg and Kirk Kellogg hosted friends of Gill St. Bernard's School at the Sailfish Club in Palm Beach, Florida during 2024 spring break (From L to R): Christy Johnson P '21, Hank and Laurie Brucker P '23, Kirk Kellogg and Emily Maillet Kellogg P '29, Head of School Sid Rowell,

Obituaries

Elly Peet Sharpe ’50

Elly Peet Sharpe passed away peacefully in her sleep on July 4, 2024. She was 91.

Elly was born on January 7, 1933, in East Orange, NJ. She spent her formative years in Mendham, NJ, attending the Gill School (now Gill St. Bernard's). She excelled in both academics and athletics (baseball, tennis, and field hockey). She went on to McGill University and majored in Political Science.

Upon graduation, she headed to New York City, NY, and landed her first job in the Correspondence Department at McGraw Hill's Book Department. She also worked at Look Magazine, Save the Children, and Lever Brothers.

She met her beloved husband of 54 years, Eddie Sharpe, on a blind date. They had two children. After her son was born with cerebral palsy, she devoted her life to disability advocacy. She worked at United Cerebral Palsy Inc. in the Office of Family and Consumer Advocacy for 20+ years. She later worked for SKIP of NY. She was a tireless champion for children with disabilities and their families.

In 2016, she and her husband moved to Washington, DC to be close to their daughter and family.

Elly was preceded in death by her mother, Eleanor Innes Ferguson Peet, father Edwin Fullarton Peet, and husband Eddie Sharpe. She is survived by her daughter Sara Tobin (Tim), son Zack Sharpe, grandson Finley Tobin, and granddaughter Chase Tobin.

William T. Speck ’59

William T. Speck, MD, who died on March 30 at age 83, had an extraordinary career: he was a division chief and department chair, president and CEO, teacher, and mentor.

Dr. Speck’s two guiding passions were the care and welfare of babies, children, and young adults; and the commitment to provide excellent training opportunities to the young physicians entering the specialty of pediatric medicine.

The Department of Pediatrics in the Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons benefited from three phases of Dr. Speck’s career. In the first, Bill was an intern, resident, and chief resident, staying on as a fellow to further his training in infectious diseases. He subsequently joined the faculty as an assistant professor, with joint academic appointments in Pediatrics and Microbiology.

In 1977 Dr. Speck relocated to Cleveland to join the Department of Pediatrics at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine as an associate professor, chief of infectious diseases, and director of

the pediatric residency program at Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital. Five years later he was promoted to professor and chair of the Department of Pediatrics, a position he held for ten years.

The second phase of Bill’s career at Columbia began in 1992 when he returned to the faculty as a professor of clinical pediatrics and assumed leadership as CEO of the Presbyterian Hospital. As CEO, he successfully lobbied for the merger of Presbyterian Hospital with New York Hospital to form New York-Presbyterian Hospital, the largest provider of pediatric care in New York City.

The culmination of his contributions to Columbia was the establishment of the William T. Speck M.D. Professorship of Pediatrics, earmarked for an accomplished senior faculty member with an outstanding record of commitment to pediatric resident education.

Edie Clark ’66

"It might have been the beauty of this land and its dramatic sky that brought me here, but the house, its history, its voices, the thought of the many feet that have touched its floors, this is what is so meaningful to me now. I'm only here to make it better, to make it last."

Edie Clark, whose essays about her life in rural New Hampshire inspired thousands of readers across the country to feel she was a close friend, even a member of their family, died peacefully at Cheshire Medical Center in Keene on July 17 after a brief struggle with Covid. She was 75.

Edie was born December 10, 1948, in Summit, New Jersey. She lived with her parents, Luther S. Clark Jr. and Dorothy H. Clark, and her sister, Christina H. (Chris) Clark, in Morristown, New Jersey. She was a stellar athlete; tennis, skiing, and field hockey were among her favorites. She graduated from Beaver College (now Arcadia University) in Pennsylvania and worked at a publishing house in Philadelphia, where she met her future husband, Michael Haman.

In 1978 Edie came to Yankee Publishing in Dublin, New Hampshire, and the work she was always meant to do, began. For years, it was a rare issue of Yankee that did not feature an Edie Clark portrait of a person or town.

After her divorce from Michael Haman, in the fall of 1984 she married Paul Bolton, a shy and gifted carpenter. After only a few special years, cancer took Paul at age 39. Shortly afterward, determined to embrace the memory of their time, Edie began The Place He Made, a book about their life together. When it was published in 1995, The New York Times Book Review called it "a triumph of the human spirit ...sure to take its place among the best of the literature."

Her work led to residencies at the famed writers retreats MacDowell and Hedgebrook, as well as numerous honors and awards. She taught writing at several colleges and gave talks and workshops around New England. She loved singing and performed in the

Dublin Community Church choir as well as in a local concert of Handel's Messiah.

Edie Clark was predeceased by her parents and her beloved husband Paul. She is survived by her sister, Chris Clark.

In 2017, an annual award named in her honor: The Edie Clark Prize for Creative Writing, was established by the English Department at Gill St. Bernard's School in Peapack-Gladstone, NJ, as part of their academic program. In 2023, the recipient of this award was Ella Rapp. In 2024, the award was given to Addison Rodriguez.

Patty Muchmore ’66

Patricia King Hallett Muchmore, 75, of New London, NH, passed away on June 1, 2024.

Born in Orange, NJ, Patty was the daughter of the late Dr. Bruce and Constance Hallett. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and sister.

Patty spent her early years in Convent Station, NJ, before marrying her husband John, to whom she was wed for 48 years. After marrying, the couple moved to Pottersville, NJ, where they built a home to raise their family.

Patty was a graduate of Gill St. Bernard’s School and Briarcliff College. Professionally, Patty achieved great success in the fashion industry, including leadership sales roles at both Doncaster and Carlisle. Patty was a dedicated volunteer and leader across a wide range of non-profit organizations. She started her volunteer work with the Junior League of Morristown, where she eventually served as President. Her volunteer work extended to Gill St. Bernard's School, where she held an Honorary Trustee role, Clarence Dillon Library, Far Hills Country Day School, Morristown Medical Center and the Fells, all of which included her service as a board member. Her passion and contribution to these organizations brought fulfillment to her life and made a positive impact on the community.

Patty is survived by her husband John Muchmore, her children Samantha Stuart, James (Darcee) Muchmore, Ashley Muchmore, and Emily (Cooper) Hastings, as well as her 8 grandchildren and 5 siblings.

Richard Bellush, Jr. ’70

Richard Bellush, Jr. passed away on February 21, 2024. He was 71 years old.

Born in Morristown, NJ, to parents Richard Sr. and Robina Bellush, he was a lifelong resident of the Mendham and Far Hills area. He attended Gill St. Bernard’s where he was active in the newspaper, yearbook, and equestrian program, and he went on to graduate from George Washington University with a degree in History and Classical Humanities. He took over his family’s Real Estate business, Bellush Associates, where he worked until his retirement.

Richard was an avid reader of all kinds of books, including but not limited to historical nonfiction, sci-fi, and more. He enjoyed

writing and published a few books, and weekly blogs under the title “Richard’s Pretention,” sharing opinions, thoughts, and short stories. He loved walking the trails on his property, spending time in the pool (he always found a reason to jump in, no matter how cold), and bar-be-cueing in the warmer months.

Richard was a caring man who consistently fed the stray cats that visited his property, Sneaky Pete and Pumpkin Spice.

Richard is predeceased by his parents and sister Sharon.

Rev. Dr. Robert Harry LaForce ’70

Rev. Dr. Robert Harry “Bob” LaForce, 72, of Lancaster, passed away peacefully and entered the arms of the Lord on April 10, 2024. Born in East Orange, NJ, he was the son of the late Bayard and Edith (Clarington) LaForce. He was married to his second wife Barbara (Yustat) Lutz-LaForce.

Bob obtained his doctorate from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. His pastoral career began at Wurtemburg Presbyterian Church in Ellwood City, where he met his first wife, Shirley. He also pastored at First Presbyterian Church (Philipsburg), Little Britain Presbyterian Church (Peach Bottom), First Presbyterian Church (Strasburg), Christ Church (Philadelphia), Bethesda Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia), Central Presbyterian Church (Long Island, NY), Stewartstown Presbyterian Church (Stewartstown), and most recently, Family of God Community Church in Red Lion, PA. He also attended Mission Church in Lancaster, PA.

Bob loved to learn, study the bible, read, and help others. He enjoyed spending time with his family, watching baseball and football games, and was known for his love of mashed potatoes and peanut butter sweets. He even had the privilege of running the sound/audio at Woodstock for Jimi Hendrix.

Bob is survived by his second wife, Barb; son, Oliver Jordan LaForce (Sara); 6 stepchildren, 9 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his first wife, Shirley P. (Gongaware) LaForce in 2007.

Richard Bellush ’70 participating in the GSB equestrian program. L to R: Mrs. Tilghman, Bellush, Headmaster the Reverend Henry

Obituaries

Daniel Conover ’96

It is with deep sorrow and much love we announce the passing of Daniel Todd Conover on August 4, 2024, at the age of 46 years.

Daniel is fondly remembered by his parents, Gayle & Wayne Conover; son Arron Conover; sister and brother-in-law Julie & Xavier Padovani.

Daniel's life was led by a love of the outdoors, a fascination with building and a passion for music. Often consumed with understanding how things worked, Daniel was a fountain of knowledge, constantly reading and researching any topic that caught his attention.

In his youth, Daniel was an avid sportsman, pitching for his baseball team and running cross-country at Gill St. Bernards, where he and his team took the NJ State Title more than once. He graduated Gill St. Bernards in 1996 as Class President. Daniel subsequently attended Ithaca College where his passion for music blossomed, and he spent many hours honing his craft of DJing, a passion that stuck with him well into adulthood.

After college, Daniel returned to New Jersey where he joined his parents at the family business, Conover & Brems Inc. Daniel started as a carpenter apprentice working his way to foreman and obtaining his Project Management Certificate from Rutgers University. In 2007, Daniel moved to California. He worked in construction and in 2017 joined Metropolitan Water District of Southern California ultimately working through the ranks from Operations & Maintenance Technician to the Eastern Construction Team's Operations & Maintenance supervisor.

Daniel's personal life was led by a passion for nature and family. In 2020, Daniel welcomed his son Arron to the world and together, they went on many adventures. Beyond fatherhood, Daniel's limitless love of nature led him up mountains, down ski slopes and through rivers, truly soaking up life's true beauty hidden around every corner.

GSB Magazine - Fall 2024

TABLE CONTENTS OF

FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

CLASSROOM

CASEY SANTONACITA,

LOWER SCHOOL LEARNING SUPPORT SPECIALIST

DENISE QUENAULT, LOWER SCHOOL INSTRUCTOR

CARLY HYDRUSKO, LOWER AND MIDDLE SCHOOL ART INSTRUCTOR

MONIQUE BROWN, MIDDLE SCHOOL SPANISH INSTRUCTOR, MIDDLE SCHOOL DEIC COORDINATOR

JACK WILLIAMS III, UPPER SCHOOL MUSIC INSTRUCTOR

PETER ROSLUND P ’25, ’25, LOWER AND MIDDLE SCHOOL P.E. TEACHER

TRACEY GOODSON BARRETT, NINTH GRADE SEMINAR INSTRUCTOR, DIRECTOR OF DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION, AND COMMUNITY

CHRISTINE CHAN P ’37, UPPER SCHOOL HISTORY INSTRUCTOR, INTERNATIONAL PROGRAM DIRECTOR, TENTH GRADE DEAN

NED LINCOLN, FARM MANAGER

NASRIN AMERI, UPPER SCHOOL

MATHEMATICS INSTRUCTOR

MACADA BRANDL P ’20, ’22, ’26 UPPER SCHOOL LATIN INSTRUCTOR, WORLD LANGUAGE DEPARTMENT CHAIR

JONNA DEFALCO P ’32, ’39, MIDDLE SCHOOL HEALTH AND P.E. TEACHER

Gill St. Bernard's Announces Dr. Delvin Dinkins Head of School Elect,

with Dr. Delvin Dinkins

What

Class of 2024

LIFERS2024

GSB Class of 2024 College Destinations

GSB Honors Class of 2032 in Lower School Closing Exercises

GSB Honors Class of 2028 in Middle School Closing Exercises

The

Program SPRING UNIT

UPPER SCHOOL SPRING UNIT

COSTA RICA

BEHIND THE SCENES

THE CREATIVE HUSTLE

RECEIVING IN GIVING

O CANADA

MIDDLE SCHOOL SPRING UNIT

INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

2024 INTERNSHIP PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS

CATEGORY

FISHING DERBY 2nd Annual

18thAnnual GSB Classic

Reunion ALUMNI

Interested in Volunteering?

SP

What would your advice to current GSB students be?

What are some hobbies you enjoy?

SP TLIGHT Alumni

Tell us a little about what you do now.

What would be your advice to current GSB students?

What are some hobbies you enjoy?

SP TLIGHT Alumni

A Life in Animal Services

SP TLIGHT Alumni

A Life in Social Connections

What would be your advice to current GSB students be?

What are some hobbies you enjoy?

PARENTS' ASSOCIATION PARENTS' ASSOCIATION

Bingo Night

Campus Connections & Land Appreciation Walk

ASSOCIATION ASSOCIATION

Comedy Night

Year End Celebration

PerformingARTS

Upper School Spring Musical:

She

Loves Me

Middle School Spring Musical:

The Pirates of Penzance Jr.

Rising Star Awards from the Paper Mill Playhouse

And the winners are...

K-12 Spring Art Show FineARTS

MUSICat GSB

ATHLETICS

ATHLETICS 2023

OLYMPIC DREAMS:

’14 & CJ LICATA ’18 COMPETE FOR A SPOT IN PARIS 2024

DANA KLEIN ’14

How has the competitive landscape changed since your time at GSB?

CJ LICATA ’18

What

SPORTSRECAPS