T H E
M AG A Z I N E
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G I L L
A New Generation
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B E R N A R D ’ S
S C H O O L
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W I N T E R
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TABLE OF CONTENTS FROM THE HEADMASTER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 FEATURES A New Generation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Alumni Make Life-Long Commitment to Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 PROFILES Exploring the Natural World: Rosy Link ’10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 ALUMNI NEWS
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Alumni Soccer Game . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Young Alumni Night . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 GSB NEWS The Servant of Two Masters Entertains Audiences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Homecoming & Family Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Turf Field Dedication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Special Announcement: The Founders Society . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Teri Cosentino Named PAEMST State Finalist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Barbara Davis P ’11 Supports Fashion Show . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 PATRONS GSB Golf Classic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Headmaster's Reception . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Gratitude: Julie Ruby . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 F.M. Kirby Foundation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
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New Board of Trustees Members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 The Starr Foundation Continues Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Current and Former Trustees Gather . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Lindabury-Thomas Trustee Award . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 ATHLETICS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 ALUMNI NOTES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 FACULTY NEWS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 ALUMNI REUNION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Board of Trustees Gill St. Bernard’s alumni magazine is published three times a year by the Communications & Marketing Department and the Alumni Office. S.A. Rowell, Headmaster Allyson B. Daly, Director of Communications and Marketing Michael LaBrie, New Media Specialist Megan Zakrzewski, Communications Specialist James F. Diverio, Director of Development Michael Liddy, Associate Director of Development Matthew Marsallo, Major Gifts Officer Ginny Needham-Doyle, Director of Parent Relations and Special Events Julie Ruby, Data Manager Chanelle Walker, Director of Alumni Relations Gill St. Bernard’s School P.O. Box 604, St. Bernard’s Road Gladstone, NJ 07934-0604 908-234-1611 gsbschool.org facebook.com/gsbschool facebook.com/gsbschoolalumni Photography in this issue by Becky Bedrosian Photography, Larry Levanti Photography and GSB staff members, unless otherwise noted. Design by Vision Creative Group. Some freelance writing by Alice Roche Cody and Daniel Zampini.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES Harry Chowansky III Samuel Corliss, Jr. Gia Dunn Liz Fucci Donald Fuentes Robert Hemm ’46 Judith Fulton Higby ’65 John Howard Rose Kirk Douglas Matthews Linda Moore Edmond Moriarty III Patricia Hallett Muchmore ’66 Elizabeth Nametz Sandra Niccolai James O’Connor Robert J. O’Leary Preston Pinkett III
John Raymonds Todd Ross ’94 Marianne Saladino Robert Sameth, Jr. ’89 Vlad Torgovnik Janine Udoff HONORARY TRUSTEES Patricia Aresty Joseph Behot Miguel Brito Laurie Brueckner Brandon Clark William F. Conger Richard Emmitt Barbara Evans Nelson Ferreira Michael Golden Adrienne Kirby
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Michael Mandelbaum Richard Markham Mary McNamara Ellen Nardoni Mark Paris Katherine Smith Maureen Stefanick Jayne Vespa Michael Weinstein ’87
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FROM THE HEADMASTER
T H E M AGA Z I N E O F G I L L S T. B E R N A R D’S S C H O O L
The current trend in our society, to rate or rank all things, is not always productive. Though ratings may be helpful in purchasing a television or a car, such ratings don’t as readily apply to education in general, or schools in particular. Despite the complexity of fully evaluating an educational institution, ratings/rankings are here to stay, at least for colleges and universities. The annual edition of the U.S. News & World Report that issues its rankings of the “Top 100 Colleges and Universities in the United States” is its best seller, by a wide margin. Indeed, these types of rankings have become a highly lucrative business. Upon closer examination, however, the criteria used to determine such rankings reveals that they are not entirely objective, nor necessarily helpful. I raise this concern because independent schools are regularly approached by various publications in order to create a similar type of ranking of independent schools. Most are driven by a desire to sell magazines, albeit under the guise of providing a “valuable service.” Thus far, the National Association of Independent Schools, along with other independent school organizations, has resisted and strongly discourages this practice. Still, the desire to rank remains strong. The fact is that all schools should provide some objective data to demonstrate that they provide “value,” in addition to fulfilling their stated mission—and most schools do. The challenge is doing it without resorting to ratings that offer a superficial comparison, at best. How then, do parents measure our schools? The college matriculation list is certainly one important indicator. Other indicators would include successful programs in the arts or in athletics, the general well-being of the student body and the opportunities offered for children to build character and develop skills of leadership. In addition, I believe another valid data point would be the number of alumni who choose to send their child or children to the school. I would like to think that a high number in this category suggests more than just loyalty to one’s alma mater. It speaks directly to a belief in the institution and the value it provides. It is with pride that I note the growing number of our alumni who choose to enroll their children at Gill, and I am confident that this trend is one that will continue. It is a good story or testament, if you will, about the value of a Gill education and one well worth sharing with you. Further, if you live in or around Gladstone and have school-aged children, I hope you will come and visit your alma mater as the parent of a prospective student. Regards,
S. A. Rowell 1
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
T H E M AGA Z I N E O F G I L L S T. B E R N A R D’S S C H O O L
Dear editor, When I saw the photos of "The Cottage" in the fall 2013 GSB Magazine article, “A Call to Rebuild The Cottage,” my heart twinged. This was the house where I grew up and I hold so many memories of it. Looking at the living room, I pictured where all our furniture was and it also made me think of all the times my brothers played football when my parents were out of the house. And the fireplace was so special, especially at Christmas time. How I loved to see our tree in the front windows! Those windows, at the time, were made up of very small squares. It made me feel sad that it is not livable anymore. It was such a very happy place in my life! — Nance Durward Ellison Daughter to former SBS headmaster, the late John M. Durward (1958-66)
Dear editor,
nks” k note of “tha to send a quic ,” which e lik st ju ld Spotlight and I, wou My wife Pat, onor, “In the ce article on C SB Magazine. ni ry ve e th r G fo e latest issue of e appeared in th eit, he’s not on very cool (alb riences with as w it t gh ou pe ne arts ex y, Conor th Needless to sa horn). His broad range of fi n, guidance and sio n vi r ow ei s th hi t with ot s— to to e Southerland years—and his involvemen d th d an a ad an an ol ho nd sc Mr. C ou gr gh hi ck s t over hi him the ba encouragemen and chorus, certainly gave inue on with nt co to e sir r de the Gill theate This experience fueled his in May he graduated ed. training need uction at Rensselaer, where mmunication, and a od co theater and pr electronic media, arts and ll-time in the in w working fu a “over-hire” no is e H with a degree n. sig tr de ex g d in un do so so in concentration moved up to Troy, and is al in Albany and the s d rt an A g ea in ar m Albany r Perfor Egg Center fo work for The sselaer. While we’re en EMPAC at R w, he’s doing well no empty nesters independence, so his and enjoying and I continue to t it’s all good! Pa the GSB and th bo w no , nd atte rent, nce a theatre pa RPI plays. (O parent…) e always a theatr
On Our Cover
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The Durward family circa 1959. (L. to r.) Bonnie Durward, Nancy Durward Ellison, Adele Durward, James Durward SBS ’68, John M. Durward and John G. Durward SBS ’64.
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1. Julie Berman 2. Robert Berman ’15 3. Bill Berman ’76 4. Maja Paumgarten 5. Sophie Parker ’18 6. John Parker ’81 7. Harald Parker ’14 8. John “Jay” Woods ’75 9. Lyndsey Woods ’23 10. Cheryl Woods 11. Lucas Woods 12. Kristopher Goodrich ’99 13. Eva Goodrich ’27 14. Jaime Messina Goodrich ’01 15. Lyla Goodrich 16. Caroline Sameth ’21 17. Chris Sameth ’91 18. Emma Sameth ’23 19. Grace Sameth ’27 20. Teagan Sameth ’25 21. Tanya Sameth 22. Noelle Sameth ’27 23. Nevan Sameth ’25 24. Rob Sameth ’89 25. Jennifer Huber McGuirl ’97 26. Matthew McGuirl 27. Gregg McGuirl 28. Liam McGuirl 29. Alyssa McGuirl ’26
FEATURES
A New Generation Returning to GSB Roots By Alice Roche Cody
As Jennifer Huber McGuirl ’97 finishes a fellowship in neonatology at Montefiore Medical Center, the top criteria in her employment search is proximity to Gill St. Bernard’s School. Her daughter, Alyssa ’26, attends kindergarten and next year, her son, Liam, will also become a student. “As I look for jobs, my restricting factor is that I want all of my children to experience Gill as I did,” says McGuirl. “I had a great experience at Gill; it felt like the whole community was my family.” McGuirl started GSB in eighth grade, when her dad, Matthew Huber P ’97, ’01 GP ’26, began his career there. The intimate classes enabled her to thrive. “The classes were so small they didn’t have a gym class, and we had to participate in sports,” she recalls. Only because it was mandatory, McGuirl played soccer and basketball, and ran track. She believes her time at GSB served her well; she went on to play two years of soccer at Bucknell University, and was academically prepared for college and the rigors of medical school. So, the decision for McGuirl and her husband Gregg to send Alyssa to GSB was an easy one. Sure enough, that first day of kindergarten, it felt like she dropped her daughter off with extended family. And, in a sense, she did. McGuirl’s father has directed the Middle School for the past 22 years, and Alyssa’s first teacher, Cassie Golden Murphy ’99, was McGuirl’s high school soccer teammate. With this nurturing community surrounding her daughter, McGuirl has high hopes: “My expectations are for my children to have as good an experience as I had at Gill.” Like the McGuirl family, a growing number of alumni are choosing to send their children to their alma mater. While many hold warm memories of their student days, they are especially impressed with GSB’s strong academic curriculum and its drive to graduate well-balanced students who
The McGuirl family, including (from left) Jennifer ’97 and her husband Gregg with their two sons, Liam and Matthew, daughter Alyssa ’26 and Jennifer’s father, also director of the Middle School, Matthew Huber P ’97, ’01 GP ’26.
participate in extracurricular activities such as sports and drama. Recent statistics support the school’s successes. Each year, Gill graduates are accepted into some of the country’s most prestigious colleges and universities including the Ivies as well as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Georgetown, The University of Chicago and Stanford University. Athletically, GSB won the 2012 ShopRite Cup, a statewide program that recognizes excellence in athletics and sportsmanship. And in the performing arts, GSB won the 2012 Outstanding Overall Production of a Musical Rising Star Award from the Paper Mill Playhouse for its spring production The Mystery of Edwin Drood.
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Bill Berman ’76 sees GSB’s strong academic curriculum as an improvement from his high school days. That’s what sold him on the school for his son, Robert ’15. “I don’t remember trips to Spain or the Galapagos Islands; I didn’t have those opportunities,” says Berman. “It’s vastly different—the school has grown. It far exceeds what existed in 1976 in terms of the number of buildings, the curriculum and the level of sports.” Berman, who played football, baseball and wrestled for a season, says the exceptional sports program Gill now boasts didn’t exist either. Yet Robert had to sideline one of his passions to attend GSB. “He gave up football to come to Gill, but we thought the Gill experience outweighed the sacrifice,” says Berman, adding that his son plays baseball.
Teagan ’25 and Nevan ’25 Sameth.
The school’s range of academic and co-curricular offerings led Rob Sameth ’89 and his wife Tanya to enroll their twins, Teagan ’25 and Nevan ’25, and their daughter Noelle ’27. Although Sameth enjoyed Gill, it was not a snap decision to send his girls to the school. The couple toured other private schools to evaluate the competition and decide the best option.
So far, Robert’s experience has been positive, just like his dad’s. “It was a great experience for me in 1976, and it’s a great experience for Robert in 2014,” says Berman, an attorney. “My expectation is that Robert will graduate with a well-rounded socialization, a close-knit group of friends and an education that can be built upon at the college level.” A contemporary of Berman, John “Jay” Woods ’75 wants his daughter Lyndsey ’23 to forge her own experiences at GSB, irrespective of his. As a student, he made lasting friendships and thrived with the innovative Unit Plan, where students took one class at a time for six weeks. However, he views the current GSB as a stronger institution.
They had specific criteria: strong academics with a technological component and exposure to the arts, music and the languages. “Not every one of the schools we looked at had these, but Gill matched our expectations,” says Sameth, a real estate agent. “It was an easy decision once we did our due diligence.” He also appreciates GSB’s global approach, which features the International Student Program and after-school Chinese and Mandarin language offerings. “Now our three girls are there and that just makes me smile,” says Sameth, a trustee and alumni council member. “They love to learn and come home excited to do their homework. We see their progress in reading, spelling and writing sentences. It’s exciting to see them so happy. It doesn’t get any better than that.” 4
Bill Berman ’76 P ’15.
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as well.“My wife and I went last spring to campus, and although I’m an alumnus, I hadn’t spent a lot of time at Gill,” says Sameth, a commercial real estate broker. “We were blown away. The campus is beautiful, the buildings have lots of charm and there’s updated technology in the classrooms.”
The Woods family (from left), Cheryl Woods with her husband John “Jay” Woods ’75 and their two children Lyndsey ’23 and Lucas.
“Gill today is a very different school,” says Woods, a product manager for a financial payments company. “In the ’70s, things were quite different. If I thought my daughter would have the same experience, I probably wouldn’t have sent her. It was the era of sex and drugs. It was the times, not the school.”
They found GSB to be the best choice. “You like the idea of your children following in your footsteps, but you want what’s best for them,” he says. “The fact that my brother and I went here didn’t influence our decision. If we thought there was a better place for each of them, we would have done that. It’s a credit to Gill. It has evolved. It’s well-respected. We looked at other schools, but the whole package that this school has to offer ultimately made our decision for us.” Three years ago, when Dan Herr ’84 and his wife, Kay, were selecting a school for their daughter, Elizabeth ’24, GSB fell to the bottom of the couple’s initial list. Even though Herr had a positive experience attending grades six through eight at the Stronghold campus, he felt GSB was too far from his family’s Murray Hill home.
Last year, Woods found that Lyndsey wasn’t challenged in the public school she attended. Since seeing his daughter start third grade at GSB this past September, he is convinced it’s the best fit. “Academically, it was a great move,” he says. “She went from having no homework to now doing up to 60 minutes a night. It’s harder, but she likes her teachers and her classes.” In addition, she enjoys piano, violin and magic club. Similarly, Chris Sameth ’91 said he and his wife, Kristen, were looking for a change from the private school where they initially had their girls enrolled. When their youngest, Brothers Rob Sameth ’89 P ’25, ’27 (l.) Grace ’27, was ready and Chris Sameth ’91 P ’21, ’23, ’27 (r.). to start school, they turned to GSB for a tour and decided to not only enroll Grace, but move Emma ’23 and Caroline ’21 to Gill
The Herr family: Dan Herr ’84 with his wife, Kay, and their two children, Elizabeth ’24 (l.) and Davis ’26 (r.).
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Zack Wendell ’23 (m.) joins the GSB Blue Crew.
But a visit to the Gladstone campus bumped GSB to the top spot. “I went home from the tour content and gratified that the GSB tradition was alive and thriving,” he says. “I noticed small class sizes; I saw students fondly greeting teachers and administrators; I saw Mrs. Wilson leading her first graders in jumping-jack math; I saw research projects in The Matthews Family Library that were of the same caliber as my college thesis; and I had students patiently waiting so that they could hold a door for me.” This past fall, Davis ’26 joined his big sister as a student at GSB. “Our children are making phenomenal progress,” Herr says. “Gill provides a terrific blend of book learning and tangible experiential learning. The atmosphere of accomplishment and pride is contagious.” Because Michael Wendell ’84 and his wife, Gina, are both teachers at GSB, doors have been opened for their son, Zack ’23. “I realize how fortunate my child is to have the opportunity to receive a private education, an opportunity he wouldn’t have if I didn’t work here,” says Wendell, assistant dean of students and history teacher in the Upper School. “He has grown up on campus and feels comfortable. He likes the fact that his mom and dad are around.”
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Photo provided by New Jersey Press Media, "The Courier News."
Zack, a third grader, can often be spotted cheering with the Blue Crew at high school basketball games. He’s at “home” on campus, whether on the bleachers or in class. “He absolutely loves the school—the teachers, the smaller classes,” says Wendell. “He’s able to focus on the classroom and there are no distractions. Kids aren’t acting up, for the most part.” For Wendell, it was the relationships he built as a student with faculty and his coaches that led him to return for his career. “I realized the impact my teachers had on me and remembered my connection with the faculty. It’s now a completely different school, but in some ways it’s still the same small, caring community. It’s an academically rigorous campus, and its sense of purpose has improved over the years.” His teachers, including Michael Chimes, Peter Schmidt and Gerry Cirillo, were always approachable. “They always had time to talk, no matter how busy they seemed to be,” he says. “I’m sure they had better things to do in their lives, but they were never too busy to have a conversation.” In fact, Schmidt served as best man at his wedding. Wendell hopes Zack forges his own friendships with the faculty and that when he graduates, the lessons he learned about character will be ingrained. “I’m more
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concerned with the person he walks out as than the student that graduates,” he says. “Academics are the priority, but with the emphasis on character and integrity—what he’s getting now—that’s the foundation that I hope continues.” Although tuition costs put a dent in the Goodrich’s finances, both Jaime Messina Goodrich ’01 and her husband Kristopher Goodrich ’99 believe the sacrifice is worth it for their daughter, Eva ’27. “The advantages of attending Gill are far greater than the strain it puts on us,” says Jaime Goodrich, alumni council executive committee member and former development employee. “Gill is at the forefront—it’s ahead of other area public and private schools,” she says, citing Singapore math. Soon their younger daughter Lyla will also start at GSB. “For me, the school became my home,” she says. “I’ve spent more time on that campus than off at this point. It’s the community. It’s ridiculous; everyone says it and nobody can describe it. When class size is small—35 graduates in mine and 32 for my husband—there’s a great student-teacher ratio. You got to know everybody, for better or worse. It’s nice to grow up in a place where if you had any issues, academic or otherwise, everyone had everyone else’s back.” Kris Goodrich started at GSB because he wasn’t challenged at his public school. Here, the faculty tailored lessons to support his needs. “Teachers went out of their way to take you to the next level and
challenge you and push you further academically,” says the Internet company co-founder. “I was advanced in math and science, but behind in reading and writing. I got added help to do catch-up work, but my teachers also pushed me above and beyond the core curriculum. I received personal attention on both sides.” This environment, he believes, will help Eva succeed as well. “It’s the one-on-one attention,” he says. “She’s being given what she needs to move forward. Eva is hard on herself, and her teachers are working with her to get her to loosen up and accept occasional failure, as much as any four-year-old can.” Both parents hope that Eva will thrive, as they did. “We had a great experience at Gill, and we’re satisfied with the education we received,” says Jaime Goodrich. “Our hope is that she walks away with the same opportunities that were afforded us. Our whole lives can be attributed to our time at Gill. We met each other there, and Kris developed a love for business. For me, I found a place where I could come back to work or volunteer. We’ve come full circle.” (L. to r.) High school sweethearts Jaime Messina Goodrich ’01 P ’27 and Kristopher Goodrich ’99 P ’27.
“Back in the ’70s, all students were encouraged to participate in something at Gill St. Bernard’s School—a factor in the development of an individual’s growth. Those opportunities have continued.” — Lee Kasman ’76 and his son Charles ’16, both soccer players in their sophomore years at Gill St. Bernard’s School.
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Making a Life-Long Commitment to Service By Alice Roche Cody
Neil Christiansen ’02 winds his motor boat through the bay, outlined with lush, verdant vegetation, and stops off at docks to fetch children for the preschool he started in Bocas del Toro, Panama. His students, Ngobe Indians, live in wooden, thatched roof huts built on stilts over the water. Because there are no roads on this island archipelago, there are no school buses. And nearly three years ago, before Christiansen started Give and Surf, there was no formal education for these children. “Families were skeptical at first, teaching three-year-olds and the very idea of early childhood education doesn’t exist in these simple communities, it’s a western concept,” says Christiansen, who attended GSB in the ’90s. “A lot of important learning foundations need to be established at that age; it’s more important than a fifth grade science class.” In addition to preschool, Give and Surf also runs an after-school program, music and English classes and summer school, serving approximately 80 students.
Neil Christiansen ’02 (l.) and Hector, the first child he met on the dock—at two-years-old—in Bocas del Toro, Panama. Christiansen refers to Hector as a teachers’ favorite and his star student, having watched him evolve from a timid young boy to a leader in the classroom over the past three years.
An avid surfer, Christiansen left his lucrative medical device sales career in San Diego and moved to Panama to help the indigenous community. “It was my dream to set up a nonprofit, I knew I wanted to help others, but I didn’t know in what capacity,” he says. “I traveled around the world surfing and gained perspectives on different cultures. I wanted to give back. If you look at the top 100 surfing spots, almost all are in impoverished areas of the world. But, few surfers give back to the communities they are surfing in, and to a degree, take advantage by coming and going and not leaving anything for the local community.”
A growing number of former GSB students—like Christiansen—are dedicating their lives to helping others through work with nonprofits. Although community service is not mandatory at GSB, students participate in a myriad of fundraising events and volunteer for countless organizations. Last year, Half the Sky, a club started by social studies teacher Joanna Hayes for sixth and seventh grade girls, gained national recognition for raising $900 to send three girls in Nepal to school. Other popular student causes include Habitat for Humanity; H.O.P.E., Helping Other People and the Environment, which runs blood drives and toy collections and donated books to a Liberian school; and Relay for Life, an American Cancer Society fundraiser. And, during the spring, the Unit, a two-week Upper School immersion program, offers the opportunity for civic engagement.
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In fact, through a Unit trip last May, junior Emily Western traveled to Panama with four classmates to help Christiansen’s students. “The girls made lesson plans and incorporated that into the activities of the day,” says Greg Washburn, the math teacher who oversaw the Unit. Before the trip, students raised $9,000 for Give and Surf to purchase construction supplies for a new school. For Western, the Unit immersed her in a different culture and sparked an interest in helping children. “It opened my eyes more to what is possible—that a small private school in New Jersey can help a tiny school in Panama, near the jungle,” she says. For Jennifer Doyle ’04, her career commitment to community service can be traced back to her GSB days, particularly her Unit in the Florida Keys, where she learned about ecosystems and marine life. This led the animal lover to work for the nonprofit, Zoo New England.
During the GSB Unit trip to Panama last May, Emily Western ’15 taught the children to brush their teeth while singing a catchy song.
“Gill’s motto is ‘The World is Our Classroom,’ and I was able to bring inner city children to Boston zoos to learn about nature,” she says. “The Unit inspired my passion and appreciation for the environment.” In addition, teachers John Ripton and Peter Schmidt introduced her to other cultures through readings and class discussions. And dinners at the Morristown-based Eric Johnson House, a transitional housing program for people with HIV/AIDS, made her want to help others. Today, Doyle serves as program manager for Get on the Bus, a program of the Center for Restorative Justice Works, a nonprofit that coordinates and provides free transportation for children to visit parents incarcerated in California prisons. “For a large majority of the kids who ‘get on the bus,’ this is the only time they are able to see their parents,” she says. “We have a lot of kids who haven’t seen their parents in five years or more or meet them for the first time. Women are the ones who strike me the most. A woman may have had a baby right before prison or while in prison. Seeing these women hold their babies for the first time is really emotional. It’s hard for them to say goodbye. That’s the toughest part.” In 2013, Get on the Bus served 1,051 children and visited 11 prisons throughout California. Doyle works with family members beforehand to secure all necessary paperwork for clearance. Not all participants are kids. “We’ve taken adult children as old as 36 and generations of a family, an adult child with his or her own children,” she says. As Doyle sees it, Get on the Bus works on many levels. “Some prisons let us know this has an effect on behavior because participants don’t want to lose their privileges,” she says. “The program has improved behavior and morale. We have wardens calling us to expand.” Jennifer Doyle ’04 (r.) and a Get on the Bus volunteer.
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Across the country, in New York City, William Speck, M.D. SBS ’59 makes a difference with elderly residents through Citymeals-on-Wheels (CMOW), which delivers two million meals a year to more than 17,000 seniors. As former president of the board at CMOW, and a member of the development and executive offices, Speck has expanded the scope of CMOW to address pressing health issues, in addition to its traditional role of providing a meal and a visit. “He’s working to improve the quality of life of our clients,” says Rachel Sherrow, CMOW chief program officer. “Because he’s a doctor, he understands how frail and sick they are.” Speck, professor of pediatrics at the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, helped secure grants for two studies from Columbia. The first examined whether vitamin D supplements would help vulnerable CMOW recipients strengthen bone mass, preventing falls and hospitalizations. William Speck, M.D. SBS ’59 and his wife Speck hopes to next add a physical therapy component. Evelyn Lipper, M.D. at a recent fundraiser for Citymeals-on-Wheels at Rockefeller Center. The second study sought to improve the oral health of CMOW recipients. The better the oral health in patients, the better chance food is chewed properly, thereby maximizing the nutritional value of delivered meals. Speck feels fortunate that through medicine, he can help others. “I care about people being healthy, especially vulnerable populations,” he says. Receiving a scholarship to St. Bernard’s School was the first step. “I was tossed out of public school, and if I hadn’t gone to St. Bernard’s, I wouldn’t have gone to college,” he says. His football coach, George Fessenden SBS ’39 challenged him: “‘Decide right now if you will be an employer or an employee, and if it’s an employer, then go to college,’” Speck recalls. After graduating from Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, he attended Bowman Gray School of Medicine at Wake Forest. “Through medicine, I’m able to give something back,” he says.
William Speck, M.D. SBS ’59 returns to GSB to watch a basketball game with his former football coach— also an SBS alumnus—George Fessenden ’39 (r.)— and longtime friend of St. Bernard’s and Gill St. Bernard’s Schools, Junie Hockenbury (l.).
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FE AT U R ES
As Rob Levy ’80 speaks of the animals living on his 25-acre animal refuge, Goat Mountain Ranch Sanctuary, in Leicester, N.C., it’s as if he’s introducing good friends. There’s Bella, the white horned-sheep that was slated to become dog food; Ozzie, the pot-bellied pig that spent five years huddled in a hole and couldn’t stand on its long hooves; and Pearl, a black-maned pony that was terrified of people and not able to walk when it joined Levy’s tribe seven years ago. “Pearl was tremendously neglected—she had health issues because she hadn’t been fed correctly,” he says. “She had founders, where her feet swelled. She lay on the ground for six weeks and wasn’t able to get up. She also had a stifle problem, where her legs locked up in back. But she made a full recovery.” It took surgery for the stifles and six weeks of staying on her side, being fed hay. Today, Pearl even lets people pet her. Levy began taking in animals in 2003, starting with a few goats, and then expanding to chickens, roosters, sheep, donkeys, pigs, ponies and horses. “I didn’t plan on doing this when I moved here,” he says. “I learned as I went along and soon my friends were calling it a sanctuary. I just bring in the animals and give them a place to live.” Before this, Levy sold and repaired pianos. For a portion of his senior year at GSB, he studied classical Rob Levy ’80 was featured on the front page of the local music independently, which prepared him for his paper, The Leicester Leader, in recognition of his efforts for current nonprofit venture. “I managed myself and offering sanctuary to animals at the Goat Mountain Ranch. found my own teachers and practice time,” he says. “It was the first time I was given the responsibility to do something like that.” He’s not sure how he went from repairing pianos to rehabilitating and tending to animals. “I don’t know where this came from,” he says. “It doesn’t make any sense that I ended up doing this, but it’s very rewarding.”
Want to learn more? To learn more about the organizations mentioned in this article, visit: giveandsurf.org
citymeals.org
getonthebus.us
goatmountainsanctuary.org
Active in community service? Please contact Director of Alumni Relations Chanelle Walker at 908-234-1611, ext. 292 or cwalker@gsbschool.org.
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COLLEGE CORNER
PROFILES
Exploring the Natural World: Rosy Link ’10 By Daniel Zampini
Your average college student would probably need a break after finishing the GRE—a graduate school aptitude test that takes almost four hours to complete. Rosabeth “Rosy” Link ’10, on the other hand, agreed to be interviewed for her GSB Magazine profile the very same afternoon as her test. That sense of commitment is telling. A quick look at Link’s record of achievements to date—from international travel to an impressive resume of biological field research—reveals a young woman who does nothing in half measures. A senior biology major at Dickinson College in Carlisle, Pa., Link Rosy Link ’10. is currently working with one of her professors on a paper that analyzes the population distribution of the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid, a pest insect commonly found throughout the American northeast. And that is only one example in a string of hands-on projects she has recently undertaken. After spending the fall semester of her junior year abroad in Toulouse, France, Link traveled to Australia, where she conducted field research on the ecological diversity of the Australian rainforest—specifically on the biodiversity of tree species. Link journeyed up winding mountain roads from her rural research station outside Yungaburra and to the cloud forests, perpetually shrouded in mist at such high altitudes. One night on her way back to camp, her headlamp died and she found herself worrying about snakes underfoot in the forest, a constant concern in that environment. Taking a look at her surroundings, she noticed glowing lights around her—bioluminescent fungi. “I was thrilled,” said Link. “I walked all the way back to my cabin using the mushrooms to show me the edges of the path. Every night after that I stopped, turned off my headlamp and looked for the mushrooms again,” she added of her favorite memory from the trip. Link got her first taste of field research while a student at Gill, as she enrolled in a Unit that took her to the Florida Keys to study marine life. “The Unit provided a unique experience that students I’ve spoken to from other schools haven’t had,” said Link. Inspired by her Unit trip, Link chose to study the decline of the American honey bee as part of her Scientific Literature Review project, a mandatory research paper that marks the culmination of research and writing skills taught in the Upper School at Gill. Link, who received a characteristic “A” for her work, approached the paper with the same diligence that also earned her a place on the Headmaster’s List each semester. “Rosy worked incredibly hard and achieved a very good understanding of upper level biology,” said science teacher Michiel Stil. “At the same time, she showed a great love for the topic and I am not surprised that she continued to study and major in biology.” Expanding her commitment to the sciences, Link traveled—on a ticket paid for with money she earned as a babysitter—to Minnesota the summer before her senior year of high school. She visited with an uncle who worked as a cell biologist with the Mayo Clinic. For three weeks, she received a first-hand glimpse of the daily responsibilities of professional scientists. Although working in the lab proved a positive learning experience, Link’s experience at the Mayo Clinic confirmed her passion for field work.
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Now in her final year as an undergraduate, Link looks forward to attending graduate school next fall to pursue a doctorate degree in ecology. She hopes to become an ecology professor and a published field researcher, two career goals toward which she has been steadily working since her early teens. “Above all,” Link said, “the challenges of research and the chance to improve the health of the environment have motivated me to pursue my graduate degree.”
ALUMNI NEWS
T H E M AGA Z I N E O F G I L L S T. B E R N A R D’S S C H O O L
Fourth Annual Alumni Soccer Game GSB’s fourth annual alumni soccer game was held the Friday after Thanksgiving, November 29. Nearly 30 alumni soccer players, relatives and coaches took part in this spirited match, which was canceled last year due to Superstorm Sandy. Afterward, everyone enjoyed refreshments while recalling memories acquired throughout their years at the school.
Top row, from left: Head JV Girls’ Soccer Coach Vin Ricciardi P ’16, Marek Loder, Jake Friedman ’10, Duncan Swanwick ’07, Karl Schroeder ’10, Nazar Zhdan ’09, Mike D’Arcangelo ’09, Tyler Rodrigues ’10, Templeton Timothy ’11, Tim DiBisceglie ’13, Peter Bednarsky ’08, Danny Dennison ’07, Tim O’Leary ’11, Christopher Pellegrinelli ’07, Peter Pellegrinelli ’12, Alex Kattermann ’07, Vinicius Cavalcanti, Andrew Bednarsky ’10 and Head Varsity Boys’ Soccer Coach Tony Bednarsky P ’08, ’10, ’14, ’17; Bottom row, from left: Michael Jablonskyj ’09, Roman Jablonskyj ’09, Theophilus Timothy ’13, Jae Wong ’13, John Vnenchak ’09, Mike Renna ’13, Freddie Mundt ’10, Nick Baker ’13, Ryan Milanaik ’11 and Connor Milanaik ’11.
Upcoming Events On Sunday, March 2, 2014, all alumni are invited to the Upper School spring musical, Godspell, which will be followed by an alumni reception. Reservations are required. For more details regarding this event, and others, stay connected by updating your email address with Director of Alumni Relations Chanelle Walker at cwalker@gsbschool.org and by “Liking” us on Facebook at facebook.com/gsbschoolalumni.
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ALUMNI NEWS
Young Alumni Return to Campus Nearly 40 former students returned to campus for Young Alumni Night on December 20. The evening was full of excitement and featured Gill’s winter season opener as well as family-style dining in Brueckner Hall. GSB fans cheered the varsity girls’ and boys’ basketball teams to a 74-46 win over Rutgers Prep and a 72-46 victory over Bishop Ford Central Catholic High School, respectively. Left: Front row: (l. to r.) Casey Arnold ’12, Jessica Raia ’12, Monica Ferrara ’12 and Nicole Pisack ’12. Back row: (l. to r.) Bianca Noll ’10, Ted Gordon ’12, Brian Moscioni ’11 and Anthony Petrilli ’11.
Second row, from left: (L. to r.) Jasmine Davis ’13 and Stark Kirby ’13; (L. to r.) Blake Jenkins ’13 and Nicholas Blackman ’13; Alumnae from the girls’ basketball team, (l. to r.) Samantha Graber ’12, Daisha Simmons ’10, Dominique Vitalis ’12, Liandra Curtis ’12 and Linnett Graber ’12; Bottom row, from left: (L. to r.) Emily Fischer ’13 and Madeline Connell ’13 with Barbara Ripton; (L. to r.) Aaron Markowitz ’11, Geoffrey King ’11, Mark Small ’11 and Meaghan Moriarty ’11.
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GSB NEWS
T H E M AGA Z I N E O F G I L L S T. B E R N A R D’S S C H O O L
The Servant of Two Masters Entertains Audiences Tending to two masters is no easy task. Especially not for Truffaldino, the meddlesome servant and lead character in The Servant of Two Masters, Gill’s fall 2013 production. A student at Gill since preschool, Mycroft Zimmerman ’16 was selected for the role of Truffaldino. This being his third production with the Players, Zimmerman credits the role as having provided one of the most rewarding experiences of his high school career. “I have loved every moment that I’ve spent on the GSB stage and cannot wait to be back on it,” he said. “Truffaldino has helped me grow as an actor and as a person, and I am extremely grateful to have been cast as him.”
Truffaldino (Mycroft Zimmerman ’16) creates a distraction to escape pursuit.
Based on an 18th century commedia dell’arte by Carlo Goldoni, The Servant of Two Masters depicts the misadventures of Truffaldino as he struggles to meet the needs of not one, but two, very demanding employers. Translated and adapted by Bonnie J. Monte of The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, the slapstick comedy is set in an inn owned by Brighella (Katherine Giordano ’14).
“Brighella was originally written as a man, but after a conversation with Bonnie, we reached the conclusion that she would be a woman in our production,” said Giordano, a senior who has performed in five Upper School productions. “Her personality traits developed throughout the rehearsal process, and the end result reflected the work of the entire creative team.” From quality performances to professional-grade costumes and scenery, the season’s production once again showed excellence in the arts. “The Servant of Two Masters combined all aspects of educational theater and gave each cast member the opportunity to play a fully-realized version of traditional stock characters—updated for a 21st century audience,” said Paul H. Canada, director and performing arts chair. “With its accessible yet dynamic characters, complicated but understandable plot twists, witty humor and strong historical component, it’s no doubt that this show will become a standard in the high school theater repertoire.” Top, from left: Pantalone De Bisognosi (Lachlan Wright ’17) gives his marital blessing to Beatrice Rasponi (Erin Wetzel ’15) and Florindo Aretusi (Paul Dunham ’15); Clarice De Bisognosi (Katherine Coscia ’15) is aghast by the negative turn her lover, Silvio Lombardi’s (William Conlan ’16), affections have taken; The maidservant, Smeraldina (Kasey Collins ’14), expresses her abhorrence for the promiscuity of men; Dottore Lombardi (Xauen Zirpolo ’15) and the local innkeeper, Brighella (Katherine Giordano ’14), look at Truffaldino with skepticism; Right: The cast of The Servant of Two Masters.
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Homecoming & Family Day Fun-filled activities, delicious food and entertainment for all ages were in abundance at Gill St. Bernard’s annual Homecoming & Family Day in late September. Crowds of parents, students, alumni and faculty took part in the pumpkin decorating, face-painting and more. All this was made possible by Parents’ Association Homecoming co-chairs Karen Orazietti P ’16, ’18, ’21, Cheryl Fritzlo P ’19, ’21 and Michele Johnson P ’18, ’20, as well as by members of the GSB Athletic Booster Club and others who volunteered their time. Homecoming & Family Day is also a traditional showcase for Gill's athletic teams. This year, 13 teams competed against various schools on campus, and secured a total of nine wins.
Left: Jennifer Huber McGuirl ’97, P ’26 helps her youngest child, Matthew, decorate his pumpkin; Emma Turse ’22 shows off the balloon animal she received.
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Above, from left: The Grabowski family, (from left) current GSB teachers Len P ’08, ’12 and Carrie P ’08, ’12 with their daughter Katie ’12; The varsity cross country team hosted Rutgers Prep. From left: Andrew Wible ’15, Peter “Alec” Johnson ’15, Joshua “Jay” Corbett ’14 and Jacob Kruger ’15.
GSB NEWS
From left: Daniel Sivolella ’16 of the varsity boys’ soccer team; Tristen Miscia ’23 bounces around on the assortment of inflatable rides; GSB alumni Sarah Morris ’11 and Jonathan Ramsay ’09.
GSB Dedicates New Turf Field Members of the GSB community celebrated the completion of the school’s new synthetic turf field with a formal dedication ceremony at Homecoming & Family Day on September 28. Construction of the new field—a product of FieldTurf—began in late June and reached completion in August. During the dedication ceremony, Headmaster Sid Rowell recognized the generosity of the parents, trustees, members of the All-school photo on new turf field during pep rally prior to Homecoming & Family Day. Athletic Booster Club and others who helped fund the approximately $750,000 turf field. “Our school is a special and unique place,” Rowell said. “Facilities like this are a wonderful addition for our school community to provide an environment where students can learn and grow.” The new turf field marks just one of several major campus renovations planned for the school. Fundraising to replace the track that surrounds the field has now begun. To make a donation, please contact Director of Development Jim Diverio by phone at 908-234-1611, ext. 210 or by email at jdiverio@gsbschool.org. 17
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SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT
Mission and Goal The Founders Society of Gill St. Bernard’s School recognizes those who have notified the school that GSB is in their estate plans or have made a planned gift. The school honors the generosity and forethought of Founders Society members with special recognition and deep admiration. It is the members of The Founders Society who understand and have taken action to help preserve the great GSB community for years to come.
Gill St. Bernard’s realizes that many alumni, parents and friends of the school want to make an impact on future generations of students, by helping to ensure the school can maintain its beautiful facilities, hire and retain great faculty and continue the excellent programs offered. However, many have financial limitations to consider. To structure a gift in order to make that kind of commitment requires sound planning which can provide personal financial security as well as achieve the goal of leaving a LEGACY GIFT to Gill St. Bernard’s School.
The school is pleased to announce it has increased its resources to assist individuals or families through the process, and determine the viability and appropriate manner to make such an impact. CREATE YOUR LEGACY TODAY!
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The Founders Society Inaugural Members
Robert Hemm SBS ’46
“The impact one can make with a planned gift is remarkable. It can be your most meaningful LEGACY! It is incumbent upon all of us who have benefited from our education here to make it an even better experience for those who follow. “
Lois and Junie Hockenbury
— Robert Hemm SBS ’46
Anonymous Christine and Robert Cox P ’84 Timothy J. Erday ’90
Victor A. Lakin SBS ’32 Henry Liss P ’73, ’77 David Oakley SBS ’47 Julie Ruby Winfred S. Russell Philip J. Sheridan SBS ’36 Henrietta “Retty” Thomas Michael S. Weinstein ’87
THE GOAL for developing this program is to not only recognize those who have made a commitment to the future of GSB, but to encourage more individuals and families to learn about, and consider the value of, a variety of planned gift options. The goal is to build the endowment to $15 million over the next five years.
For More Information For more information about the Planned Giving program or ways in which to create your own legacy gift to GSB, contact Associate Director of Development Michael Liddy at 908-234-1611, ext. 205 or mliddy@gsbschool.org. Further information can be found at gsbschool.plannedgiving.org. Gill St. Bernard’s School Office of Development • P.O. Box 604 St. Bernard’s Road • Gladstone, NJ 07934 19
GSB NEWS
Teri Cosentino Named PAEMST State Finalist for Excellence in Teaching in the greenhouse, Cosentino often extends her lessons beyond the classroom.“Her enthusiasm for the environment is infectious, as is evident in her students’ joyous participation in these activities and more,” Middle School Director Matthew Huber said in a letter recommending Cosentino for the 2013 Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST).
Teri Cosentino discusses the method for growing plants without soil with Middle School student Cilia Trendelenburg ’19.
Compassion. Determination. Professionalism. Middle School science teacher Teri Cosentino embodies all of these qualities, and more. Since 2008, she has motivated students at Gill to discover the wider world around them. Whether by conducting a stream study, tapping sugar maple trees or tending to a hydroponic garden
Cosentino, one of six New Jersey finalists chosen to receive this national award, attended a recognition ceremony with Huber in Trenton, N.J. on December 18. The PAEMST marks the highest honor that a kindergarten through 12th grade mathematics or science teacher can obtain for outstanding teaching in America. Winners of the 2013 PAEMST contest will be officially announced next fall. They are eligible to receive a certificate signed by the President of the United States, a paid trip for two to attend a series of recognition events as well as professional development workshops in Washington, D.C., and a $10,000 grant from the National Science Foundation.
Barbara Davis P ’11 Supports Fashion Show More than 240 guests attended the Parents’ Association’s 18th annual fall Fashion Event—In Style, Every Day, Every Wear—at the Bridgewater Manor.
Barbara Davis P ’11.
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This year’s Fashion Event raised $40,000 for the GSB Parents’ Association and was made possible, in large part, by Barbara Davis P ’11. Owner of The Red Toad women’s fashion boutique in Gladstone, N.J., Davis coordinated the show, secured an appearance by celebrity guest Hunter Bell and provided the fashions worn by Gill’s volunteer runway models. Davis has helped with the Fashion Event—whether as co-chair or in support of the fashions modeled in previous shows— since 2008. “Barbara has spent countless hours and has donated countless resources to making Gill’s Fashion Show a truly unique and fashion-forward event for parents and friends,” said co-chair of the 2013 Fashion Event Tracey Sloan P ’19. (L. to r.) Parents’ Association President Lee Amoroso P ’11, ’13, ’19 and 2013 Fashion Event co-chairs Sharon Macak P ’20, ’22, ’25, ’27, Sheri Cohen P ’22, ’23 and Tracey Sloan P ’19 with Headmaster Sid Rowell.
PATRONS
T H E M AGA Z I N E O F G I L L S T. B E R N A R D’S S C H O O L
Golf Classic Raises Scholarship Funds Thirty-one foursomes played 27 holes during Gill St. Bernard’s ninth annual GSB Classic at Hamilton Farm Golf Club this past September. This year’s golf outing was chaired by current parent Gregory Niccolai P ’16 and raised more than $85,000 in support of need-based financial aid for the school. In its nine-year history, the Classic has raised more than $1.1 million for endowment— specifically for scholarships. GSB currently provides 15 percent of its student body—grades pre-k through 12—with some Kevin Clayton P ’15 and his team won the tournament in a competitive field of parents, financial assistance. “We are committed to making alumni and friends. a Gill education more affordable for a wide range of students,” said Karen Loder, director of admission and financial aid. “Among these students are artists, musicians, athletes and academic superstars. Their presence enriches our community and mirrors the wider world in which we all live.”
Headmaster’s Reception Greets New Parents
From left: (L. to r.) New parents for the 2013-14 school year, Susan and Thomas Fickinger P ’17; (L. to r.) Incoming parents Peter and Nyree Miscia P ’23, ’25, ’26, as well as Jeanne and George Starr P ’17.
Faculty, staff and administrators joined trustees in September to welcome new GSB parents at the 2013 Headmaster's Reception. After recognizing new and returning parents, as well as introducing teachers and administrators, Headmaster Sid Rowell encouraged all to increase their involvement in activities within the GSB community. “Community events are excellent opportunities to meet new friends, support the school and be there for your children,” he said.
Rowell also stressed the importance of fostering strength and patience in students by asking all parents to model both qualities in their everyday lives. “Gill St. Bernard's seeks to provide the right environment for all of our students. On our bad days, we are just like any other school,” said Rowell. “But on our good days, GSB is the best school in the world.”
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Gratitude: Julie Ruby “You don’t have to be an alumnus or a parent to give back to the school, all of us are part of the Gill St. Bernard’s community and any of us can give back to the school that has given us so much.”
auctions, trustee dinners, the annual fund, capital campaigns, Grandparent’s Day, the parent directory, the GSB Magazine and so much more. In this work, she has interacted almost exclusively with the adults (alumni) that former students have become, a quite different experience than that had by teachers who “plant the seeds” yet may never see the full fruits of their work.
These are the grateful words of Julie Ruby, a longtime member of the Gill St. Bernard’s development office, speaking about her decision to name Gill as a beneficiary in her estate. By establishing this planned gift, Ruby has become a member of The Founders “We ask alumni to support Society.
the school because it helped
“I’m here when the child from 40 years ago comes back,” said Ruby. “I work with the alumni of the ’40s, ’50s, ’60s, which has given me a global view of what the school has meant to students, and it just keeps on impressing me—The Gill School, SBS, GSB, we have produced some incredible adults.”
For decades, Ruby led a to give them a place in this very successful career in world. That is exactly what publishing in New York City Gill St. Bernard’s has done for and at New Jersey Monthly me. How could I not support Magazine. In 1991, she the school myself?” switched her career and environment by joining the She continued, “There is just something about GSB staff of Gill St. Bernard’s School. Making the move to that is organically different than other schools. It a school in the hills of Somerset and Morris Counties fosters the very best in students, not just academically, was quite different, but she knows that it was the but in helping them to find their place in this world.” right one. “At Gill St. Bernard’s, I found my place in the world,” she said. Over her tenure, Ruby has met hundreds of “incredible adults” who are as grateful for their For the past 23 years, her “place” has been as a member education as she is for the opportunity to serve them. of the Gill St. Bernard’s Development Office. With a These experiences deepened her belief in the value razor-sharp mind, dry-wit and no-nonsense approach, of a GSB education, and made her think about giving Ruby has assisted in almost all office activities as data back to the school that has given her so much. manager, including alumni reunions, golf outings, Julie Ruby, data manager at Gill St. Bernard’s School.
“We ask alumni to support the school because it helped to give them a place in this world. That is exactly what Gill St. Bernard’s has done for me. How could I not support the school myself?” All are invited to join The Founders Society and create their legacy by planning a gift that supports the school, as well as ensures personal financial security. Please contact Michael Liddy, associate director of development, at 908-234-1611, ext. 205 to discuss or inform the school of a gift intention. In addition, please visit the Planned Giving section of gsbschool.org for a full list of ways to plan a gift, including some that cost nothing now, others that stimulate income and others that protect individual assets.
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PAT R O N S
F.M. Kirby Foundation Boosts Campaign The good news came as an early holiday gift. Just prior to the December break, the F.M. Kirby Foundation sent word that it would not only significantly support the campaign to build a performing arts and community center, but would also create a challenge for the school which could potentially double its commitment. “We are in the early stages of soliciting significant support for the primary capital project of the campaign,” explained Doug Matthews P ’16, ’18, ’24, chair of the Delivering the Future campaign. “For the foundation to commit to $500,000 now, as well as offer an additional equal amount if we meet its challenge, is a testament to its belief in Gill St. Bernard’s. We could not be more excited about the support and the challenge presented to us.” The F.M. Kirby Foundation began supporting Gill St. Bernard’s several years ago and this marks its largest gift to date to GSB, even without the challenge portion. Dillard Kirby P ’09, ’13, president of the foundation, shared, “Our commitment was structured so that we could provide unconditional lead support rather early in the campaign and, at the same time, aid the campaign leadership to generate enthusiasm and momentum for the broader Gill St. Bernard’s community. We are quite impressed with the school’s leadership and campaign results to date, but recognize that there is so much more potential within this wonderful school community.” The additional $500,000 challenge portion of the grant will be awarded if the school raises an additional $4.5 million toward the project between October 2013 and the end of June 2015, as well as initiates the processes required to be “shovel-ready” during the fall of 2015. As should be expected with such a pledge, Kirby added, “We understand that meeting this challenge will not be easy, but it is doable with a very strong effort. We greatly want Gill to succeed.” The overall project to build a new performing arts and community center includes erecting a new field house for Lower and Middle School physical education and athletics. The field house is necessary as the Old Gym will be completely gutted and
Artist drawing of the new performing arts and community center.
transformed into a 450-seat theater to be used by all three divisions for concerts, assemblies and guest speakers/performances. It will be the home of the school’s award-winning Upper School theater and music programs, and include all amenities necessary to continue the dynamic performances produced by those departments. “This gift and its accompanying challenge are of tremendous significance for Gill St. Bernard’s,” said Headmaster Sid Rowell. “First, it recognizes the work of our trustees and senior leadership team in developing a truly revolutionary plan for a new performing arts and community center. Second, it acknowledges the wisdom of locating this wonderful new facility at the main entrance of the school, transforming the Old Gym into a signature building for the campus. Third, the foundation has given us a most generous gift to get things going. Finally, the challenge is a call-to-action by those in the GSB community to join in this vital effort for our school to ‘deliver the future.’ I am grateful for the support of the F.M. Kirby Foundation and we are all honored by its decision to get involved with this campaign.” The Delivering the Future campaign is a comprehensive fundraising effort with a goal of $15 million to be raised in gifts and pledges over five years. It includes not only the signature performing arts and community center project, but has already raised funds for the addition to Founders and the Turf Field as well as ongoing support to grow the endowment. For more information, contact Director of Development Jim Diverio at 908-234-1611, ext. 210 or jdiverio@gsbschool.org. 23
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New Board of Trustees Members Welcomed Last May, the board of trustees of Gill St. Bernard’s School voted four new members to its Class of 2016.
affairs from Washington University of St. Louis, and lives in Long Valley, N.J. with her husband Robert and their son Connor ’18.
Rose Kirk P ’18.
Preston D. Pinkett III.
Linda Moore.
John Raymonds P ’21.
Rose Kirk P ’18 brings to the GSB board more than 26 years of experience in telecommunications, having managed a wide range of functions including operations, customer service, sales and marketing. She is currently president of the Verizon Foundation and of the Office of Global Citizenship, and has been recognized as one of the top working mothers in America by Working Mother Magazine, as a woman of power by the National Urban League, as one of the most influential women in corporate America
by both Savoy Magazine and The Network Journal, and as one of 21 leaders for the 21st century by Women’s eNews. She currently serves on the board of directors of Dress for Success Worldwide, as a member of the president’s cabinet at her alma mater, Arkansas State University (ASU), and on several community boards. Kirk, with a B.A. in journalism from ASU, was recognized earlier in her career by both the Associated Press and The New York Times as an award-winning journalist. She is currently completing a master’s degree in international
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From 1996 until her retirement in 2010, Linda Moore was executive director of the New Jersey Association of Independent Schools (NJAIS), an organization offering a wide variety of services to more than 70 member schools including accreditation, professional development and lobbying. Prior to joining the NJAIS, Moore spent 14 years as director of member services at Independent Educational Services, a nonprofit organization that assists independent schools in the recruitment of faculty members and administrators. She holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and school media from The College of New Jersey, and resides in East Windsor, N.J. Moore also served eight years on the East Windsor Township Council and had the honor of being the first woman mayor in township history. Preston D. Pinkett III has served as president, CEO and director of City National Bancshares Corporation and the City National Bank of New Jersey since 2011. Previous positions held by Pinkett include vice president at Prudential Financial and senior vice president of community
PAT R O N S
development at PNC Bank and Chemical Bank, New Jersey. Pinkett’s former experience in the public sector includes senior vice president of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority and senior planner with the Council on Affordable Housing. In addition to his newly appointed role on the board, Pinkett serves as vice chairman of the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation and officer of University Ventures. He also serves on the board of directors and trustees for a number of nonprofits including Montclair State University, Lead New Jersey, the National Bankers Association, Cityworks and the Global Impact Investment Network. Pinkett holds a Bachelor of Science in economics from Cornell University as well as a Master of Business Administration
from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. John Raymonds P ’21 is the co-manager and chief investment officer at Raymonds Capital, LLC. Through Intrinsic Properties, LLC, Raymonds is a partner in the British Columbia film and television production companies Bron Studios and Bron Animation, which he co-founded with Aaron Gilbert in 2011. He is also a partner in Media House Capital, a gap lender to the film industry, and the owner of PET-Power B.V., a European rigid plastic packaging company in the food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries, which he co-founded in 1995. His other entrepreneurial investments include RRKidz, Tocagen, Steamsharp and XCOR Aerospace. Raymonds holds a
Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering from Massachusetts Institute of Technology. As a Spirit of Innovation member at the XPrize Foundation, Raymonds has also seeded the development of an XPrize in the education sector that, in 2013, announced plans for a $10 million Global Literacy XPrize. Also a former member of the board at The WardlawHartridge School of Edison, N.J., Raymonds currently resides in Warren, N.J. with his wife Valerie and their two sons, John “Matthew” ’21 and John “Joseph.” His eldest son is currently studying at the Savannah College of Art and Design, and is expected to graduate in 2017.
The Starr Foundation Continues Support In December, Gill St. Bernard’s once again received a significant grant from The Starr Foundation. Specifically, the New York City-based foundation added $250,000 to the Maurice R. Greenberg Scholarship Fund at Gill St. Bernard’s School, which it initiated in 2012 with a similar gift. These two gifts have created a half-million dollar endowment fund designated for need-based financial aid. Over the last decade, The Starr Foundation has honored GSB with consistent and outstanding leadership support. Initially creating the C.V. Starr Scholarship Fund in 2001, and increasing it over the last decade, the foundation has made it possible for dozens of Upper School students to take advantage of a GSB education they may otherwise not be able to afford. “We are proud that The Starr Foundation has chosen to recognize Gill St. Bernard’s with its continued support,” said Headmaster Sid Rowell. “The students who benefit from financial assistance made possible by these endowed scholarships are outstanding kids. Words cannot express what The Starr Foundation’s support has meant to our school.” In large part due to the outstanding support of The Starr Foundation, and numerous other individuals and organizations, Gill’s endowment has grown from less than $500,000 in 2001 to over $9 million today, much of it to support need-based student aid. Selection of recipients of the two scholarship funds created by The Starr Foundation is based on both financial need and academic merit. 25
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Current and Former Trustees Gather A formal dinner was held October 18 to thank current, former and honorary board members for the roles they play in ensuring the overall success of the school. Headmaster Sid Rowell offered sincere gratitude for all that the board has done throughout his 12-year tenure. “As a head of school, sometimes it can be a lonely job,” he said. “But, with such great trustees I’m never alone. Your support has made all the difference in helping me to continue moving the school ahead.” During the event, honorary trustee Bill Conger P ’03 received the Lindabury-Thomas Trustee Award. (See article below.) (L. to r.) New trustee Linda Moore, honorary trustee and Board of Visitors member Miguel Brito and guest David Farrand.
Bill Conger P ’03 Honored More than 50 current, former and honorary board members, as well as friends and family, formally congratulated Gill’s 2013 Lindabury-Thomas Trustee Award recipient, Bill Conger P ’03, at a dinner held October 18 in Founders Hall.
(L. to r.) Ezra Jennings, GSB alumnus Ray Conger ’03, honorary trustee Bill Conger P ’03, Headmaster Sid Rowell, Abby Conger and Alex Jennings.
Established four years ago, the Lindabury-Thomas Trustee Award, recognizing former or honorary trustees who continue to promote, support and work to benefit the school, was presented to Conger by board of trustees Chairman John Howard P ’17, ’21 and Headmaster Sid Rowell. A member of the board from 2001 to 2006, Conger has remained active at Gill long after his son Ray’s graduation in 2003. He attributes personal satisfaction as the reason behind his longstanding volunteerism. “We are all involved—we give our time, we give our resources—and the reason we do it is because we get something out of it,” Conger told fellow board members.“I’ve learned a lot and I’ve actually had a good time.”
Since joining the GSB community in 1996, Conger has served as treasurer of the board, as a member of the executive and finance committees and as a member of the committee on trustees. Rowell praised Conger for his distinct style of communication and leadership over three separate capital campaigns.“He doesn’t go into anything 50 percent,” Rowell said.“Whether it’s to his family, Gill St. Bernard’s, fishing, fast cars or cycling—Bill is totally committed.” Conger served on the strategic planning committee in 2005 and, along with his wife Nancy, helped fund construction of the Hockenbury Academic Center in 2007. This year, Rowell announced that the Congers will again offer assistance to the school by helping to fund the creation of its new development office. “Bill is very civic-minded, and volunteers his time with many nonprofit organizations,” said Rowell, noting his outside participation as a member of the board with the Foundation for Morristown Medical Center, vice chairman of The Raptor Trust—a renowned bird rehabilitation and education center in Millington, N.J.—and president of the Lake End Corporation in Green Pond, N.J.“It’s true that Bill works with a number of wonderful organizations, but he has always found time to be a dedicated member of the GSB community,” Rowell added. Previous recipients of the Lindabury-Thomas Trustee Award include Alberta “Bert” Edwards P ’78, ’81, ’84, Robert Sameth, Sr. P ’89, ’91, Joe Behot P ’03, ’07, Barbara Evans P ’75, ’78 and Richard Emmitt P ’02. 26
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ATHLETICS
Boys’ Soccer State Champs On November 18 at The College of New Jersey, the varsity boys’ soccer team won its second Non-Public B State championship since joining the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) in 2004. It earned its first NJSIAA State championship in 2009. Recovering from a tough loss to a strong Watchung Hills High School team in the Somerset County Tournament semifinals, the boys rebounded quickly—beating Moorestown Friends 2-1 on November 14—to claim their third Sectional title in just four years. Four days later, they beat Montclair Kimberley Academy (MKA) 2-0 in the State final. This win was the second over MKA in just two weeks, as Gill also defeated the Cougars 4-1 on November 3 for its second consecutive New Jersey Prep B crown. The team was led by seniors Justin Durcan, Craig Pilla and James Reiner, as well as juniors Jack Lowe and Jordan Schreer. The two championships were special for this group of upperclassmen, which twice fell to MKA over the previous two years in the State tournament. Their collective experience helped pull together a very talented young squad that included several sophomores and Varsity boys’ soccer wins the 2013 NJSIAA Non-Public B State championship. six freshmen, all of whom started at one point or another during the season. In all, 13 players received some postseason all-star recognition. Their 20-3-2 overall record helped to celebrate the 25th season for New Jersey Coaches Hall of Fame member, Tony Bednarsky P ’08, ’10, ’14, ’17 and bodes well for more success over the next several years.
Klein Makes GSB History Big season for senior leaders Klein and Benoit
Dana Klein ’14 became the first girl in school history to win the varsity cross country Non-Public B Group championship. This achievement was the pinnacle of a breakout season for the 1st Team All-State and The Star-Ledger Somerset County and Courier News Runner-of-the-Year. Klein grabbed many headlines and the team had an exceptional year, placing fifth overall in both Somerset County and State Championship meets, and second at the Prep B Championships. Fellow senior Alexandria Benoit had her best season as well, making for a powerful one-two punch for the team at every event. The readiness for a competitive year for both runners was clear early on in the season as Klein won the prestigious Shore Coaches Invitational and Benoit finished sixth out of 108 runners. It continued as the duo proved invaluable for every big meet. Both placed in the top-10 in the Somerset County Championships (Klein 1st, Benoit 10th) and finished 1-2 at the Prep B Championships. Klein also finished in the top spot at the Skyland Conference Championship. Following Klein’s historic Non-Public B Group championship run, at which Benoit finished seventh, both runners were invited to the NJSIAA Meet of Champions to conclude the season. Both represented the school well; Klein completed the girls’ race in the third fastest time (18:20) of any runner in Somerset County history, finishing sixth overall. The young team racing with them all season will no doubt continue the same drive and commitment next fall. Dana Klein '14 (l.) and Alexandria Benoit '14 (r.) run with Emily Quinn '13 (m.) during the 2012 cross country season. Quinn, now running for the University of Pennsylvania, set the pace last year as the two current seniors did this past fall.
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Girls’ Tennis Shines
From left: Stephanie Fuentes '14; The varsity girls’ tennis team earned its second consecutive NJSIAA Non-Public B South Sectional championship.
The girls’ tennis program had another great season, posting a 13-4 record and capturing two impressive championships along the way. After two outstanding wins over Rutgers Prep and WardlawHartridge, the girls defeated Moorestown Friends to earn their second consecutive NJSIAA Non-Public B South Sectional crown, falling just shy of the State title in a 3-2 loss to perennial powerhouse Newark Academy. Regular season dominance earned Gill a share of the Skyland Conference Raritan Division championship, and in tournament play the Knights were runners-up in the Prep B Championships and finished fifth in Somerset County.
The team was well-balanced, with Krishna Patel ’16 leading the charge at first singles. Patel won the first singles flight at the Prep B Tournament and was named 1st Team All-State (Non-Public), All-County, All-Conference, All-Prep B and All-Area (Courier News). Behind the leadership of seniors Kendall Dunn and Stephanie Fuentes, the young squad stepped up during important matches and gained valuable experience for the future.
Boys’ Cross Country Earns Prep B Crown During a season that saw exceptional individual and group success, the hard work of many piqued in late October. After securing top-10 team finishes in every major race prior to the championships in late fall, the boys’ cross country team was rewarded for its hard work. On October 30, the team earned its first Prep B championship in over a decade. Patrik Andersen ’15 finished first and his brother Felix ’17 placed third, leading a group of strong finishes by teammates earning valuable points in the milestone victory. The group followed that performance with a third place finish in the NJSIAA Non-Public B Group Championships, resulting in a first-ever team qualification for the NJSIAA Meet of Champions.
From left: Patrik Andersen '15; The varsity boys’ cross country team won its first NJISAA Prep B title since 2002 on October 30.
The Andersen brothers both earned 1st Team All-Prep B and All-Conference honors. Patrik Andersen also made 1st Team All-County and Felix Andersen was named Somerset County Rookie-of-the-Year. With so many returning teammates beside them next year, there is much more to come.
Varsity Girls’ Soccer In a year riddled with injuries, the girls’ soccer team persevered to post its fourth straight winning season (9-8-2). One of the stalwart fall teams of GSB, the girls rarely fielded the starting 11 they began the season with. The leadership of seniors Kathryn Bednarsky, Andrea Jablonskyj and Kelly Staples— all 1st Team All-Conference honorees—proved critical as the team fought tough county and league competition and ended the regular season with an impressive 2-1 win over Newark Academy.
Kathryn Bednarsky '14.
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New Coaches Join Staff This past fall, the girls' soccer program announced two new coaches at the varsity level. Michael Williams was named head coach of the varsity girls’ soccer team. In addition to his new post at GSB, Head Varisty Girls’ Soccer Coach Michael Williams. Williams is the regional coaching director of Maestro Soccer Academy and a trainer with the Maestro F.C. program. He guided his U13 club team to the 2013 New Jersey State Cup this past spring. Prior to coaching, he played Division I soccer at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and played for one year as a member of the Football Kingz (later renamed the Wellington Phoenix)— New Zealand’s only professional soccer team to compete in the Australian National Soccer League. Joining Williams as assistant varsity girls’ soccer coach was Donna Bednarsky P ’08, ’10, ’14, ’17. Bednarsky has more than 20 years of coaching experience at the club level and served as head coach of the varsity girls’ soccer program at Gill from 1994 to 1999, accumulating more than 100 career wins and three Prep B championships with the Knights. Josuf Dema was appointed head varsity girls’ basketball coach for the 2013-14 season early this fall, after volunteering during the off-season and as an assistant coach for the team last winter. Head Varsity Girls’ Basketball Dema played basketball, Coach Josuf Dema. football and lacrosse at the high school level, as well as DIII football and lacrosse at Kean University. He also co-founded and has coached
Want to Know More? For more information on GSB athletics including the current winter season (basketball, track and field, fencing and swimming) go to gsbschool.org/athletics or come see the student-athletes compete on campus.
the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) basketball program, Hoop Heaven Blaze, with assistant varsity coaching partner Nate Suresh for the past six years. Kimberly Schmidt returned to GSB as head coach of the varsity swim team this winter. Also head coach at Gill during the 2009-10 season, Schmidt was Honorable Mention All-America in high school Head Varsity Swim Coach and served as captain of the Kimberly Schmidt. University of Rhode Island swim team for three years. Schmidt served as assistant swim coach at Montclair State University for four years and oversaw the swimming program at Indian Hills High School in Oakland, N.J. She currently teaches physical education and health at Science Park High School in Newark, N.J.
Rooks Commits to Stanford Taylor Rooks ’14 is the quintessential student-athlete. Through the first semester of her senior year she maintains a 4.2 GPA and is ranked among the best high school basketball players in the country. As a captain of the GSB girls’ basketball team (ranked number two in New Jersey by The Star-Ledger at press time), this nominee for the McDonald’s All American® Games leads by example, continually motivating her teammates to become better players and individuals. These leadership qualities, along with her skills on the court and in the classroom resulted in the best collegiate programs taking notice. Rooks signed an official National Letter of Intent with Stanford University on November 13, making her the third Division I girls’ basketball recruit produced by GSB in just five years. Rooks is another one of Gill's very best on her way to a great school, as well as being a member of one of the top women's basketball programs in the country. Read more about Rooks’ decision online at gsbschool.org! 29
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Faculty News This past fall, Lower School art teacher Joanne Bodnar’s piece entitled Refreshing, which had received Honorable Mention in the Hunterdon Watercolor Juried Show, was accepted into the Garden State Watercolor Society’s Open Juried Show. It was displayed, for approximately three weeks, at the Prallsville Mill in Stockton, N.J. Lower School Director Peggy Campbell-Rush was one among six inductees accepted into the Warren County Hall of Fame this October. Sponsored each year by the Warren County Community College Joanne Bodnar’s watercolor painting, Refreshing. Foundation, the Warren County Hall of Fame honors residents who have made a positive impact in their local communities. Middle School science teacher Stacy Schnurr, along with her husband Brian, announced the birth of their baby girl, Fiona Gale, on August 29. She was born weighing seven lbs., eight oz. Inductees in the fourth annual Warren County Hall of Fame, from left, Stephen L. Gandley, Therese “Terry” Steinhardt, Lou Reda, Peggy Campbell-Rush and Richard Maguire, Jr. Also missing from picture: Alvin Sloan (deceased).
Journey to Africa Changes Worldview of Teachers Robert Orr, a Middle School math and Upper School history teacher, scrolls through thousands of photos taken during his two-week trip to southern Africa. He looks beyond the innocent and smiling faces pictured in each frame. He passionately explains, “The portraits tell a story, of longing and despair, poverty and illness, hope and ambition, of the everyday realities faced by children in Zambia.” With help from colleague Robert Orr ’89, as well as from the UK-based nonprofit organization The Butterfly Tree, Orr and his wife Cynthia Orr—an Upper School math teacher—traveled to Robert Orr (r.) interviews and befriends a Mukuni villager rural communities in Zambia this past summer. The Orrs describe and 12th grade student, Brian Mulwani, who shares his dreams of someday becoming a pilot. standing before classrooms of 45 to 70 students in Mukuni and N’gandu village schools, each child equipped with no more than a pencil and a notebook. “We found the children to be articulate, interesting, fun and capable,” Orr says. “But their opportunities are limited. Many will not have the financial resources to get through high school.” The stark reality of these children’s lives prompted Orr and his wife to establish two organizations: The PEAK (Projects for the Education Advancement of Kids) Fund and Sustainable Century, LLC. The latter sells jewelry, gifts and paper goods made by cooperatives in Africa. Proceeds from Sustainable Century are donated to projects around the world. “We wanted, simply, to help these kids realize their dreams,” says Orr. The Orrs’ new organizations have already raised funds for textbooks and other supplies for the N’gandu Basic School.“We wanted to make a positive contribution,” says Orr.“And, we’ve only just begun to accomplish this goal.” 36
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From left: Varsity boys’ soccer, the NJSIAA Non-Public B State champion; The Star-Ledger Somerset County Runner-of-the-Year and Courier News Runner-of-the-Year Dana Klein ’14. Klein was also named an NJSIAA Non-Public B, Prep B, Skyland Conference and Somerset County champion.
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