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The University School Journal is published two times a year by University School and its Alumni Association for the alumni, parents and friends of the School. Letters and suggestions for future articles are welcomed. Correspondence should be addressed to The University School Journal, 2785 SOM Center Rd., Hunting Valley, Ohio 44022. Or via e-mail at: sschervish@us.edu.
Featuring
www.us.edu Editor: Susan Schervish Contributing Editors: Donald C. Molten, Jr. ’75, Jonathan Bridge, Fiona Reilly, James Garrett, Jeffrey Starrett ’75, Marcia Grant, Wendie Forman, Sue Slovich Photography: Joseph W. Darwal, Mark Most, Susan Schervish, Design: Clark Creative Services University School operates an open admissions policy in the belief that the optimum educational environment is one that is as broad and representative of American society as is practical for an independent college preparatory school. Decisions on acceptance are based on personal and intellectual criteria without regard for race, religion or place of national origin.
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2 The Headmaster’s Message: The Next Era of Excellence Headmaster Steve Murray reports about the school’s international program: “In recent months, our alumni, faculty members and students have reached progressively further afield to explore, and to bring back from their travels a new way of seeing our world and our place in it.”
4 Out of Africa University School has been actively forming partnerships and foreign exchange opportunities with schools and institutions in Africa, China and Latin America. The presence of international students on campus got a major jump start last school year when two young men from the Starehe Boys’ Centre in Nairobi, Kenya, spent their postgraduate year at US.
Forever or Sun Down: Vail Mountain’s Fated Existence Dick Hauserman ’34 recalls a time four decades ago when he and his family headed west to market a new concept, Vail Mountain. He and his partners developed the resort and incorporated Vail in 1962.
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68 ALSO IN THIS ISSUE
US Kicks off Distinguished Speaker Series
16 Commencement 2008 30 Henry Meyer ’68 Receives
University School presented its inaugural Speaker Series featuring several nationally recognized experts discussing issues of significance and interest to boys, their parents and teachers, as well as others in the community.
Alumni Graduate Award
29 Alumni Reunion Celebrations 34 Homecoming 40 Athletics 50 From the Valley to the Heights 66 Tower Society Dinner
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68 1990s Decade Event 69 Class Notes 74 In Remembrance
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The Headmaster’s Message a nervous young teacher - clearly these educators, the ones responsible for setting the tone with their own stuDo Good Fences dents, were painfully reluctant to disagree publicly with a Make Good Neighbors? peer, and even more so, to disrespect the teacher running the discussion by presuming to have a contrary opinion. With this awkwardness, the point had been made about the differing educational systems, and we processed this by Stephen S. Murray in discussion groups at length afterwards: American students in independent schools are taught to think for themselves; ood fences make good neighbors,” says the Chinese educationthe quiet farmer in Robert Frost’s al system, as successful “Mending Wall.” The narrator then as it is in so many gently jibes his taciturn neighbor as they rebuild the ways, has a long way stone wall dividing their property: “Why do they to go if the goal is to make good neighbors?” In his usual enigmatic way, produce independent Frost leaves us wondering if we should rely on the and innovative thinkcautious wisdom of a flinty New Hampshire farmer ers. who wants things walled in, and walled out, or if we As we look to the should reject such small-mindedness and embrace a future of University more open attitude. School and continue to I decided to pose the question last year in Beijing produce confident, to an audience of Chinese educators when asked to independent-minded make a presentation on American graduates, there is little education. I had thought the issue doubt in my mind as to of walls and barriers would provoke the answer to the currently relevant questions around question. Good fences Trustee and alumnus Jim Kralik ‘80 jourgeopolitics and international relado not make good neyed from his home in Shang’hai to tions. My goal was to run a discusneighbors, and the atti- Xi’an to visit with Mme. Peidong Wang, sion, and thereby demonstrate how tudinal fences that wall principal of our partner school in China, we expect American students to us in, and wall others and he interviewed two students who will form a personal opinion and to out, need to come be coming to spend their junior year at defend it. down. Getting out into US during the 2008-09 school year. “So,” I asked the audience after Jonathan Brachna ‘10 the world, experiencing presenting a Chinese translation of poses with two adoring other cultures, underfans in the village of Frost’s poem, “Do good fences standing other points of make good neighbors?” After awk- Neuvo Paraiso where view, and just as importantly, inviting visitors from the successive groups of ward silence and a refusal to offer wider world into our community in Northeast Ohio, are all an opinion either way, a member of US students continue elements of our current international program. to have a tremendous the audience finally blurted out, In recent months, our alumni, faculty members, and impact with Hope for “Tell us what you think!” students have reached progressively further afield to “My opinion matters far less than Honduran Children. explore, and to bring back from their travels a new way of yours -- what do you think?” I shot seeing our world and our place in it. The pictures and back. More silence. After much captions you see here and the articles throughout much of wheedling, cajoling, rephrasing the question, and this edition of the Journal bring you “news from the waiting, I finally was able to extract an opinion from front,” so to speak. Trustee and alumnus Jim Kralik (‘82)
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The Mead brothers -- Cooper ‘10, Tucker ‘12 and Bobby ‘14 -- in their kitchen with Reagan Tsimakoko, the student from Botswana whom them hosted this past spring.
journeyed from his home in Shang’hai to the city of Xi’an to visit with Mme. Peidong Wang, principal of our partner school in China, and history teacher JP Jacquet spent the summer in Jordan preparing to teach a course on Middle Eastern history and civilization. Students Tucker Mead ‘12 and Korey Schneider ’11 hosted two boys from the Maru a Pula School in Gabarone, Botswana, before traveling there for a month-long home stay along with Joey Grisko ‘10 and William Sheppard-Sage ’09. Finally, Jonathan Brachna ‘10 worked this spring at an orphanage in Honduras where quite a number of US boys have traveled recently and had life-changing experiences. So indeed, we do not feel that “good fences make good neighbors.” The international visitors who enrich our lives, our US host families who take them in, and the members of our community who are abroad actively connecting and creating relationships know this in the most wonderful way. I am especially proud of the array of articles we are featuring in this issue of the Journal. While many have an international theme, please also note our cover story on Dick Hauserman ‘38, who made some rather interesting and pioneering decisions along the way in his fascinating career. I have to believe that his independent spirit and innovative thinking were fostered by his years at US. Certainly the US legacy I refer to above of creating innovative, confident and self-reliant thinkers is part of a long tradition that goes back to the very roots of the school. Happy reading as you peruse the pages of yet another interesting edition of the Journal!
History teacher JP Jacquet spent the summer working at King’s Academy in Jordan and touring other parts of the Middle East as he prepared a sophomore history course on Middle Eastern history and civilization .
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Out of Africa From Kenya to Cleveland: Gap-year students leap ahead from US experience by Fiona Reilly
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“Exercising the intellect alone can be a hollow endeavor unless accompanied by opportunities to have real experiences, and to move beyond limited horizons: travel, contact with other cultures, knowledge of other languages, understanding histories and traditions other than our own, are all crucial to educating students and preparing them for the world today.” Steve Murray At his installation as headmaster October 17, 2005
Guided by this vision, US has been actively forming partnerships and foreign exchange opportunities with schools and institutions in Africa, China, and Latin America.
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wo exchange students from the Maru a Pula School in Gaborone, Botswana, spent two weeks at US this spring. Four Upper School students recently returned from Maru a Pula where they attended classes and participated in community service projects. Ongoing student and teacher exchanges with schools in Beijing, China, has led to the arrival of two students from the Xi’an Jiaotong School who will attend US for the ‘08-’09 school year. In addition, students and teachers have made regular visits to Honduras to work on service projects at an orphanage in cooperation with the Hope for Honduran Children Foundation. “These relationships have transformed the whole mindset of the school community,” Steve Murray noted. “Beyond the large number of students who have traveled abroad, a dozen families have hosted visiting students from these regions this year alone. Students are no longer wondering if they should step out to discover the world, it has become more a question of when.” The presence of international students on campus got a major jump start last summer when it was announced that two young men from the Starehe Boys’ Centre in Nairobi, Kenya -- Wahinya Njoya and Beneah Kombe -- would spend their postgraduate year at US. The news created much anticipation for the arrival of Wahinya, 19, and Beneah, 20, both top students at Starehe, where 70 percent of the boys come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, and many are orphans.
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We sat down recently with Wahinya and Beneah to get their impressions of US and to find out how the year has gone. After spending this summer in Kenya with their families, both returned to the United States in the fall for college. Wahinya headed to Middlebury College where he plans to major in mathematics. Beneah is attending MIT to study aeronautics and astronautics engineering. With their warm smiles and quiet manner, Wahinya and Beneah were completely at ease as they joked with classmates on Monkey Island or chatted with teachers in the upper commons. But it wasn’t that way at first. Both said they had some difficulty adjusting to the language, to a different academic environment, and to being so far from home. “My native language is Swahili,” said Wahinya. “Even though I speak English, my accent is strong so people couldn’t understand me and I had difficulty understanding them. Typing essays was also difficult because I didn’t know how to type. Gradually my language and writing skills improved because I was speaking and writing in English every day. Now when I type, I don’t need to look at the keyboard.” “The first two weeks at US were very confusing, getting used to so many new things,” added Beneah, “but everyone was so nice, always asking, ‘Are you doing ok?’ When I’m in college, I know I won’t have Mrs. Mason or Mr. ObelOmia smiling and making sure I’m fine, but it will be much more difficult making the transition to college without that support.” When ethnic violence shook areas of Kenya after the presidential election late last year, it was a stressful time for the young men who were naturally worried about the welfare of their families. “The chaos in Kenya was a big concern for both of us,” said Wahinya. “I’m a member of one the tribes involved in the clashes so I was worried about my family and would email
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and call them to make sure they were ok. The curfews, rations and high food prices were very hard on them.” In a strong show of solidarity with Wahinya and Beneah, the University School community rallied to raise more than $2,300 for food, water and medicine for Kenyans living in the hardest hit areas. Proceeds from a dress down day and winter dance made up a sizable portion of the donation.
High comfort zones Both Wahinya and Beneah agreed that University School teachers are different from those in Kenya where interactions with students are more formal and teachers adhere closely to textbooks. They said teachers at US are more relaxed yet know when to get serious and when to offer comic relief. “Seeing how students and teachers relate to each other shocked me at first,” admitted Beneah. “I’d see teachers laughing with students, giving them a pat on the back or a hug. I can clearly remember seeing Dr. Yedid doing a little dance in the upper commons one time. It was so funny! I was totally surprised by how easy and comfortable everyone was. That’s something I’ve really enjoyed.” Both came to realize that the high comfort level with teachers creates a certain confidence in students to challenge themselves and to take intellectual risks knowing that adults are there to guide and mentor. “My close ties with teachers enabled me to better develop my academics,” said Wahinya. “Once the teacher becomes your friend, you can better understand the material and actually start liking the subject. You’re able freely to ask the teacher to explain material you didn’t understand in class. That has been so useful to me.” “I’ve noticed that US teachers take you out of your comfort zone regardless of whether you’re an average student or a really good student,” noted Beneah. “I’ve taken advantage of the advanced math courses to challenge myself as much as possible. When I look at the math problems I can solve now, I realize I’ve covered a lot of ground. Since being here, I feel much better prepared for college, both psychologically and academically.”
Thinking beyond the book The students also said that US helped them to enhance their critical thinking skills. “I’ve really enjoyed the history and ethics classes,” said Wahinya. “The way they’re taught here is so different from back home. At US, teachers help you understand the readings and you can voice your opinion. In Kenya, you cram everything from the book into your head and keep your opinions to yourself.” “I’ve noticed that as well,” added Beneah. “Here, my priorities have changed from memorizing all the details in the book to understanding the concepts so I can figure out what happens next. US teachers are always ready to think with you and direct you. They will consider your answer even if it’s not in the book. I credit the Kenyan system for making me a very
disciplined student, but I’m better able now to think more critically.”
A new environment At Starehe, students walk outside to get to and from classes so it was strange at first for Wahinya and Beneah to be at the Upper School where classrooms, the dining room, and sports facilities are all housed in one building. They were also surprised by the wide-ranging abilities of students at US and how many boys excel in both academics and athletics. “One of the things that struck me initially was that students here are very intelligent and have so many different talents,” said Beneah. “While I always thought of myself as someone who does well in school, here you have really good football and basketball players who are also very strong academically.
The US-Botswana exchange In the spring, University School welcomed two exchange students from the Maru a Pula School in Gaborone, Botswana. Kabo Kula, a freshman, and Reagan Tsimakoko, a sophomore, attended classes at the Hunting Valley campus while living with their US host families. Kabo stayed with Edward and Lisa Schneider, and their son, Korey ‘11, while Reagan lived with Mark and Susan Mead, and their sons, Cooper ‘10, Robert ‘14 and Tucker ‘12. When the exchange students returned to their homeland in early May, four US boys joined them. Korey Schneider, Cooper Mead, Joey Grisko ‘10, and William SheppardSage ‘09, spent the last month of school at Maru a Pula, completing their academic work, attending classes and participating in commu-
nity service. The students also went on a safari. “We were all very excited about this exchange,” said Michael Obel-Omia, head of the Hunting Valley campus. “It went brilliantly due to the easygoing manner of Kabo and Reagan, the generosity of our host families, and the good nature of our US boys. We could not have done this without the meticulous attention to detail of Margie Mason, our Dean of Students, and Lorraine Koobokile, the Director of International Exchanges at Maru a Pula.” University School’s partnership with Maru a Pula came about when a US delegation, headed by Headmaster Steve Murray, visited Africa in June of 2006 and met with Andy Taylor, headmaster of Maru a Pula to explore exchange opportunities.
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I was astonished by the efficiency with which students do their assignments. They know exactly how to pick out what is important in their readings, which is a skill I have tried to develop.” While the students had much to say about the US community, they also shared their general impressions of the United States. “One thing I really like about America is the sense of responsibility that is instilled in teenagers,” noted Wahinya. “Seeing young people working in stores and restaurants really challenged my view on things because in Kenya we have 23-yearolds hanging around, still living at home, and dependent on their parents. It made me realize that I should start being responsible for taking care of my own needs.” Beneah agreed. “There are so many young people here doing something out of a sense of responsibility. When I look back on my life in Kenya, I never thought of looking for a job. Now my view has changed. Now I feel if I have free time, I should do something for myself, or help others who have helped me.”
Making a positive impact University School has certainly benefitted from the presence of these young men who became friends to many and whose culture and life experiences offered a new dimension to the life of the school. “Having Beneah and Wahinya here enabled students to appreciate the talents of others and be exposed to different points of view,” said senior Jake Stoller, whose family hosted Beneah for a portion of his visit. “Even though Beneah and Wahinya are from Africa, they are the same as us in many ways: they like to have fun, they like to work hard, and they appreciate good friends. I came to realize that some of the things we take for granted in America are often highlights for them. For example, after going with Beneah to a Cavaliers game, I rode home in silence because they lost, while Beneah could not stop talking about how cool the game was. It made me realize how lucky I am to be able to attend events like that.”
“Having Beneah and Wahinya here enabled students to appreciate the talents of others and be exposed to different points of view” University School brings relief to Kenya crisis, reaffirming its connection to Africa
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he December 2007 ethnic violence and political turmoil in Kenya sparked a rapid response from US students. In just four days, students from the Middle and Upper Schools raised more than $2,300 to directly benefit those in Kenya suffering from the violence stemming from the presidential election. The ethnic violence in Kenya began on Dec. 27 with the election of President Mwai Kibaki and the second-place finish of opposition leader Raila Odinga. Charges of fraud and ballot rigging
have caused an uproar among ethnic groups throughout the east Kenyan territories. In a week’s time, more than 500 people perished in the fighting. The money provided food, water and medicine to people living in areas where fighting and looting have interrupted normal availability of basic necessities. University School donated the funds to Common Hope for Health (CHH), a Boston-based, nonprofit relief agency that provides global health assistance to needy countries. CHH immediately distributed the
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funds through its Kenyan partner organization. After returning from winter break, University School students quickly rallied to explore ways to raise funds for the Kenyan people. Proceeds from a dress down day at the Shaker campus and from the winter dance at the Hunting Valley campus, along with fines from student parking tickets, comprised the donation. “This is one of those moments when a small gesture from our community can
“Since their first day at US, Wahinya and Beneah made a major impact on students and faculty,” noted junior Cameron Chittock, whose family also served as hosts. “They brought new energy into the school and enhanced the experience of students here. Their amazing optimism and eagerness to learn spread to those around them. When Wahinya found out that he had been accepted at Middlebury College, students literally lifted him on their shoulders and carried him through the halls. Everyone who had a chance to get to know them will always remember them as amazing guys.”
Feeling at home Both students enthused about their US host families, saying they always made them feel welcome and comfortable, and helped them to make a smooth transition to life in America. During their 10-month stay, Wahinya and Beneah each lived with three different University School host families. Wahinya lived with Craig and Debra White, William and Stephanie Eisele, and David and Linda Chittock. Beneah stayed with
Tyler Miller and Deborah Little, Felix Brueck and Ann Kowal Smith, and James and Mary Teresa Stoller. “When I leave US, I will miss my host families the most since I was so attached to them,” said Wahinya. “I will also miss the sense of brotherhood that I felt at US. The boys were always willing to listen and make me feel part of the community. I cannot count the number of times that they helped me.” “All of my families have been incredible,” added Beneah. “I was worried at first that I would not fit in, but I came to feel like a member of every family I lived with. I can never thank them enough for hosting me.” As Wahinya and Beneah prepare to leave University School and begin the next phase of their promising lives, they both realized how much they had accomplished in the past 10 months. Beneah summed it up beautifully. “We have something to celebrate knowing that we did this and challenged ourselves,” he reflected. “We took one step at a time and after 10 months we can see how much ground we’ve covered, how much we’ve progressed. The joy of this whole experience has been that at the end of the day, we’ve made a huge leap from where we were to where we are now. That is something to sit down and smile about.”
make a huge difference to innocent people who are suffering needlessly,” said Headmaster Steve Murray. “I am enormously proud of our students and grateful to them and their families for their support.” The students’ immediate and generous response was a strong sign of solidarity with Kenyans Beneah Kombe and Wahinya Njoya. Last year, University School raised $20,000 to permanently endow a scholarship at Starehe where 70 percent of the boys are from destitute backgrounds and many are AIDS orphans.
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Forever or Sun Down: Vail Mountain’s Fated Existence
by Jonathan E. Bridge Photography by DAVID1234.com
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ick Hauserman ’34 faced east on the Vail Mountain chair lift and basked in the morning sun as he approached the top of the mountain. He was deciding whether to go straight and take Forever, or
cut back and take the Sun Down Bowl. At the time he didn’t know that this would be the last run he would take before he hung up his skis permanently. It wasn’t a momentous occasion. But he was 85, and his doctor said that he was getting a little too old to go side by side with snowboarders and other fast skiers. It wasn’t that he couldn’t keep up. He could. It wasn’t that he was not able to handle it physically. He did. It was just time.
Dick deserved to look over the edge of Sun Down and say to himself, “this is my last run.” But when Dick took his last run, he thought he might be able to make another trip down the mountain before the spring melt. That return never happened. So his last day was like every other day on the mountain. He loved being outside in the fresh air, taking in the beauty of the place that was now part of the fabric of his life. He felt just as enlivened on this day as he did on his first day, 42 years before when he ascended the mountain in a red Kristi Kat – a snowcat type vehicle – to view the bowls for the first time. At that time, the area in which Vail now sits was a modest valley off of Route 6, the country road that connected Denver with towns due west. Dick agreed to be an early investor in some ranch property that had the
potential to be a ski area, so he headed west from Cleveland to check out the site. He and his first wife, Blanche, and eight other partners who eventually joined in the venture, were so taken by the potential of the terrain and the open bowls that they decided to make something of it. Having spent the first part of his career at the Hauserman Company in Cleveland, Dick was ready for an adventure. So he packed up and headed west to help market this new concept, Vail Mountain. Once he relocated to Vail, it became clear just how much was ahead of him. There was no phone, for example, so they installed an outdoor phone on a telephone pole to share among the early residents. In fact, as workers were laying the new line, Dick’s wife was going to have to make a drive to the party line shared
LEFT: Dick Hauserman ’34 shows his original design for the Steamboat logo. Dick had many of the ski runs widened so that they were more appealing to intermediate skiers. He also was responsible for calling the ski area Steamboat rather than Mt. Werner. His smokestack logo is still in use today.
Dick and Bobba Hauserman are pictured here at the National Academy of Fine Arts where they continue to study art, primarily work in charcoal and oil. Both are artists in their own right having shown their work in Vail, Palm Beach, and New York. They have spent the past five years traveling back to New York from Palm Beach so they can continue their studies.
by four local ranchers. She mentioned this to a worker who was laying some underground line. That young man started tying an extension line to a phone which he nailed to a pole. A Hauserman made the first official phone call out of Vail. The rest of Vail was also yet to be invented. There were no schools, no streets, no water, no fire department. While Dick is the first to credit his partners with working on all of these things, the reality was that he was only one of two partners to live in town. In fact, when he arrived Vail
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was not yet incorporated. They incorporated it, and Dick developed the first commercial property at the base of the mountain. There he opened the town’s first ski store. He designed the building with an apartment on the second floor so that he could have a place to live while implementing the town’s development. They moved there in October of 1962, and became the first official Vail residents. How was everything accomplished so effectively? Dick’s second wife, Bobba – an accomplished New York executive designer with world-famous labels and an expert skier in her own right, says it might be because he is one of the nicest people you will ever meet, and, like Will Rogers, never met a person he didn’t like. Watching Dick meet someone new, or talk about a friend in a genuine way, reveals how much he values relationships and bringing able people together. He is proud that at Vail, eight partners – each with unique skills – were able to offer their expertise synergistically to get things accomplished. Among the many skills Dick brought to the table was an engaging manner that made all who knew him feel like they were part of a special circle of friends. Vail may have, in fact, been charmed into existence.
Dick points to the original partners of Vail Colorado. He is standing second from the left.
Among the many skills Dick brought to the table was an engaging manner that made all who knew him feel like they were part of a special circle of friends. Vail may have, in fact, been charmed into existence.
An architect by training, Dick brought a designer’s eye to the Vail project. He headed the architecture committee and worked to bring a style modeled after a Tyrolean archetype. His ski shop was such a successful model for how to run a rental operation that it later turned into a 14-store ski retail company in ski towns all over Colorado. He worked on designing and promoting the Vail logo which is still in use today, and got the ski school uniformed in the now famous “V” striped attire that he and his wife created. We now look at how this evolved and say “wow, he did all that!” but to Dick it was a natural progression to help promote something about which he was passionate. Good health, athletics, freeing the mind, doing well were all concepts that Dick developed years ago through the influences of his family and University School. The two entities were inextricably linked as all eight Hauserman boys went to US over two decades. Dick’s mother and father were so consumed with keeping their nine children healthy and happy that his father made them create a pact. They became a “fraternity” and Dick’s father told the group that they were not allowed to smoke or drink until they were 21. If any one of them wanted to break this rule, they had to go to the fraternity to seek dispensation. Dick’s one sister was the only one who ever approached the group – smoking in college was big at that time and she wanted to smoke.
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So Dick’s healthy life began in the family and on the playing fields at US. His commitment to athletics led to his winning the All Around Athlete competition in his senior year. Dick lettered in football, swimming, and track and received honorable mention on All-City teams in football. He was energized by being able to take his personal athletic passion and make it into something creative and productive. The passion he brought to the design at Vail got noticed, and Dick’s phone rang on a regular basis. Breckenridge needed help with their build out, would Dick serve as an advisor? Sure. LTV bought Mount Werner in Steamboat Springs. Would Dick take
the project from concept to realization? Of course. Dick moved temporarily to Steamboat, designed the logo, hired “Billy the Kid” to run the ski school, developed the cowboy theme, widened the slopes to make it more family friendly, changed the name to Steamboat, and got everything up and running. It came naturally to him now that he had accomplished it before on grand scale. While throughout his working career Dick served as salesman, sales motivator, marketer, architect, golfer, art collector, artist, skier, real estate developer, entrepreneur, and lived in Cleveland, Colorado, Santa Monica, Palm Beach, and New York City, it was his early time in Vail that truly enabled him to contribute his considerable skills. That is why he kept returning year after year and decided to retire there. The air is thin in Vail, and that is not an ideal situation when you are 92, so he and Bobba now split their time between Palm Beach and New York City where they maintain an interest in the arts and keep up with their significant sphere of friends. As Dick now reflects on how meaningful Vail is to his life, he must get the urge to get back to the town that had such an effect on him. Even though he has just celebrated his 92nd birthday, he could probably head to the mountain ready to ski. So if you find yourself at Vail Mountain and see a tall, good looking figure making smooth, wide turns, give that man some space. It may be Dick Hauserman making that one last run.
Ski-Town Quiz How well do you know the genesis of some of the famous Colorado ski town communities? Take the quiz. . 1) Who was the first official resident of Vail, Colorado? 2) Which graphic designer designed the original logos for Vail and Steamboat, both of which are still in use today? 3) Who was the retailer that opened the first ski shop in Vail (it later became a 14-store operation throughout ski towns in Colorado)? The same individual built the first commercial building in Vail. 4) What architect served as Vail’s first chairman of the architecture committee? 5) Which advertising and marketing director helped stage the now famous picture of skier cowboys descending a hill on horseback in front of an historic Steamboat Springs barn with Mount Werner in the background? 6) Who was the author who wrote the history of Vail entitled The Inventors of Vail? 7) What were the names of the clothing designers that designed Vail Ski School’s famous parka? 8) Who is responsible for hiring Olympic medalist Billy Kidd to run Steamboat Springs ski school? 9) What golfer engaged IMG’s Mark McCormack to open the way to involving Arnold Palmer in spreading golf instruction by establishing the country’s first golf academy – The Arnold Palmer Golf Academy located in Vail – in 1968 (That same individual was instrumental in designing and building the back nine holes on Vail’s first golf course)? 10) Who was the first chair of the board of the Vail Mountain School? 11) Who was the consultant to help developers of Breckenridge design their retail operations? 12) Who made the first official phone call out of Vail (This model and expert skier was twice featured on the cover of LIFE magazine)? Answers: See page 55
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US Kicks Off Distinguished Speaker Series
Former NFL star Joe Ehrmann speaks about how athletic ability, sexual conquest and economic success are false measurements of manhood. Rather, men need to build and value relationships, and develop a cause beyond themselves in order to become better men.
Fatherhood expert John Badalament discusses the four practices of being a modern dad and suggests take-away activities for dads to strengthen and deepen their relationships with their sons.
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Dr. Stephen Post talks about the lives of exemplary Clevelanders and about the latest scientific research on the health benefits of kindness.
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niversity School presented its inaugural Center for Excellence Distinguished Speaker Series in 2007, kicking off the series in September with award-winning coach and former NFL star Joe Ehrmann, who offered an inspiring and heartfelt message about “Turning Boys into Good Men.” The series, entitled The Lives of Boys and How They Can Become Better Men, featured several nationally recognized experts discussing issues of significance and interest to boys, their parents and teachers, as well as others in the community. The series was very well attended by the US community and public. In November, fatherhood expert and educator John Badalament presented separately to mothers and to fathers in discussions titled “How Men’s Lives are Changing and why it Matters to all Mothers” and “Today’s Modern Dad: Exploring the Relationship Between Fathers and Sons.” In December, Patrick Bassett, president of the National Association of Independent Schools, presented “The Right-Brained Future” in a video conference, where he explored the abilities that are essential for professional success and personal fulfillment. In February, Dr. Stephen Post, professor of bioethics in the School of Medicine at Case Western Reserve University, discussed “Why Good Things Happen to Good People.” Speakers for this school year include:
In a special lecture for fathers, John Badalament challenges men to be great fathers in a variety of family structures.
• Dec. 9, 2008 - Dr. Adam Cox, clinical psychologist and educational consultant: Boys of Few Words: Helping Our Sons to Communicate and Connect • April 2, 2009 - James Steyer, founder and CEO of Common Sense Media, Children Now and JP Kids Inc.: Keeping Kids Healthy in a 24/7 Media World • Feb. 3, 2009 – Michael Furdyk, co-founder of TakingIT Global.org: The Power of Youth Entrepreneurship All lectures are free and open to the public. They are held at 7:30 p.m. in the Shaker Campus Conway Hall Auditorium and are followed by book signings.
Coach Ehrmann signs copies of The New York Times bestseller, Seasons of Life, of which he is the subject.
University School Journal · AUTuMN 2008 15
8th Grade Graduation Eighth Grade Awards Philip Emmons Brady Award for Outstanding Academic Achievement Lloyd Anderson received the Brady Award, given to the top scholar of the Shaker campus graduating class. David F. Reinthal ’32 Humanitarian Award for Outstanding Citizenship David S. Anderson received the Reinthal Award, given to the boy who, while actively engaged in the life of the school, has earned the special respect of his classmates and his teachers through his generous concern for those around him and his willingness to help others when they are in need. The recipient is chosen by the faculty from nominations made by the eighth grade class. James M. Biggar ’46 Award for Confidence and Self-Assurance Richard M. Gibson III received the Biggar Award, which recognizes that boy who has most clearly shown growth in the very personal area of confidence and self-assurance. The award was established by the Stouffer Corporation in recognition of Mr. Biggar’s many years of dedicated service and commitment.
Legacies: (front) Alex Schumann, Brooks Schaffer, Walter Ballard, Mattew Schumann (back) William Lennon, Matthew de Coningh, Michael Ilacqua, Conner Judson
Arthur L. Clements Memorial Award for Outstanding Athletic Achievement John McKelvey received the Clements Award, given to a member of the eighth grade class who has displayed outstanding athletic ability, sportsmanship and devotion to the highest ideals of athletics. David D. Starrett True Grit Award for Outstanding Athletic Performance and Enthusiasm Reid Singer received the True Grit Award, which honors the student who displays the most outstanding performance and enthusiasm throughout the year in physical education classes. Ronald W. Grant Physical Education Award Lyle and Lloyd Anderson received the Grant Award, which recognizes members of the eighth grade class who have shown outstanding leadership and dedicated service to the athletic community.
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Lifers: (front) Alexander Schraff, Troy Stanley, Jack Selman, Daniel Huang, John Okal, Colin Marvin (middle) Bryan Smith, Gaelen Hendrickson, Walter McWilliams, Benjamin Lexa, Conner O’Hearn, Jarrod Lubin, Samuel Althans (back) Reid Singer, Michael Antonelli, Christopher Higley, David Anderson, Corey Boeschenstein, Repton Salisbury, Ian Stanich, Robert LaCroix, Brandon Purcell, Zachery Eldemire, Conner Judson
University School Journal 路 AUTuMN 2008 17
CONGRATULATIONS Class of 2008
Robert M. Allen Joshua A. Apple Yule C. Baron Joshua H. Bronstein Albert W. Chilcote Michael A. Chilcote Roy C. Chiou Brett R. Cieri Michael L. Coletti William E. Colvin Donald E. Daley Jonathan S. Danzig Michael C. DeBarr
Rochester Institute of Technology Full Sail Real World Education Miami University Emory University Hobart College Dartmouth College Case Western Reserve University Fordham University Tulane University Elon University Hiram College Tufts University Miami University
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Samuel S. Eisele Sean D. Evans Juan Fernandez Dominic M. Finelli Benjamin J. Finnell Shawn K. Floyd Andrew S. Forcier Thomas J. France Alexander A. Freeman Grant J. Gettinger Matthew J. Gherlein Andrew M. Gorman Charles F. Goss
Fordham University The Ohio State University Carnegie Mellon University Bowdoin College University of Chicago Morehouse College Franklin and Marshall College University of Denver Miami University Junior Hockey Vanderbilt University Colgate University Boston College
Jerome P. Grisko Andrew C. Haines Harold B. Hartnett Macauley D. Hatch Zachary H. Herak Jared F. Jones James J. Kasten Matthew J. Kelly Zachary Kelm Alexander Krüger-Dobrota Andrew J. Lincoln E. Anders Lindseth Jordan S. Lurie Stephon M. Lynch Audley M. Mackel Toby R. Manders Julian W. Marshall D. Wesley Martin Brian C. Matia William K. McGinty Paul V. McKelvey Andrew B. Moragne Samuel M. Muzzin Michael N. Nair Benjamin H. Naylor Wahinya Njoya Robert E. O’Brien Robert P. O’Neil Uchenna Okocha Michael K. Perloff Brandon A. Pichanick Clifford Pitts Matthew J. Pokorny David G. Pollock
Lehigh University United States Naval Academy Loyola College in Maryland Vanderbilt University Davidson College Yale University University of Rochester University of Virginia Swarthmore College Arizona State University Butler University University of Montana, Missoula U. of North Carolina at Asheville The University of Akron Morehouse College Columbia University University of Miami Pepperdine University Miami University Trinity College College of the Holy Cross Alfred University John Carroll University The George Washington University Bates College Middlebury College Randolph-Macon College College of Santa Fe Washington and Jefferson College Brandeis University Texas A&M University Howard University University of Virginia College of William & Mary
Michael L. Riser Julian H. Rosen Jordan M. Rosenblum John C. Ryder Jeffrey M. Sasaki Timothy H. Scanlon James D. Schmitt Steven T. Shin Samuel C. Shunk Nakul Singh Justin R. Small Paul F. Smetona Daniel S. Smith McConnell O. Smith Erik S. Sords Peter R. Sords Stephen W. Sreshta Samuel P. Star Jacob F. Stoller David F. Stueber J. Samuel Stulberg Andrew D. Swank Reid W. Tymcio Andrew M. Vekstein Jay Wang John J. Wargo Max L. Warren David C. Wasnick Justin T. Wedell Beneah Kombe Wekesa Alexander A. White Edmond W. Zaia Henry A. Zimmerma
Miami University Dickinson College University of Rochester Georgetown University United States Air Force Academy Dartmouth College American University Northwestern University University of Miami University of Chicago Morehouse College Case Western Reserve University Carleton College Yale University Syracuse University Lehigh University Oberlin College Allegheny College Yale University Washington and Jefferson College Bucknell University Boston University Davidson College Duke University The Ohio State University Cleveland State University Case Western Reserve University Miami University (deferring) Grinnell College Massachusetts Institute of Technology Morehouse College Columbia University Rhode Island School of Design
University School Journal · AUTuMN 2008 19
University School inducts Cum Laude members N
ineteen seniors were inducted into University School’s Cum Laude Society in April. This year’s ceremony featured keynote speaker Arnold Holtberg, headmaster of St. Mark’s School in Dallas, Texas.
The Cum Laude Society was founded in 1906 to honor academic excellence, and University School was one of four original founding schools. Its intention was to provide the equivalent of the collegiate Phi Beta Kappa honors to the most distinguished graduating high school seniors. By rules of the Society, the number of inductees is limited to a set percentage of the senior class. Commenting on the students’ induction into the Cum Laude Society, Michael Obel-Omia, head of the Hunting Valley campus, said, “These young men have reason to be proud of their academic accomplishments. Earning induction into the Cum Laude Society is an incredible achievement. I have been impressed by and proud of their good work, their commitment to excellence, their sense of justice, and their honor. In all ways they exemplify the best of this wonderful society.” In his introduction of Arnold Holtberg, the keynote speaker, Mr. Obel-Omia, said, “Over the years, I have come to admire Mr. Holtberg’s sense of humor, his gentleness, his humility, and his commitment not only to personal excellence, but also his commitment to something larger and greater than himself: the education of young men. In all that he does, he exemplifies the enduring values of the motto of the Cum Laude Society: Areté, Diké, Timé… Excellence, Justice, Honor.”
Cum Laude: (front) Robert Allen, Andrew Haines, Andrew Forcier, Benjamin Finnell (row 2) Nakul Singh, Edmund Zaia, Toby Manders, Justin Wedell, Matthew Pokorny (row 3) Michael Chilcote, Andrew Vekstein, Steven Shin, Zachary Kelm (row 4) John Ryder, Michael Perloff, Jared Jones, Juan Fernandez, Jordan Rosenblum (not pictured) Matthew Kelly
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Senior Awards Twenty-eight seniors received awards at Commencement and Honors Day: Michael A. Chilcote received the CADMEAN AWARD, which is given for strong character, high scholarship, high moral and ethical leadership, and unusual devotion and loyalty to the school. It is US’s most prestigious award and is intended to recognize not only scholarship, but also the qualities of loyalty, responsibility and consideration. Nominees are elected by the faculty and the winner is selected by a ballot of the sophomore, junior and senior classes. Headmaster Stephen Murray presented the award, saying, “His record of outstanding scholarship is surpassed only by the remarkable personal qualities his teachers and other students see in him. Simply put, he is revered and respected by the entire community. A peer writes: students turn to him, because he ‘is always willing to help. His willingness to sacrifice his scarce time to help others is one of the most outstanding aspects of his character, and one of the qualities that makes him stand out as a true scholar and dedicated friend.’ Elected head of the Student Disciplinary Committee four years in a row, ‘he listens to everyone and involves everyone,’ observes the faculty advisor. ‘He is fair-minded and adheres to high standards, but is also compassionate.’ Award winning artist, mathematician, hockey captain, literary editor, community volunteer, lover of Shakespeare ... rescue diver. This year’s Cadmean Award goes to Michael Chilcote." Michael also received the Baker Prize in Chemistry, given to the student with the highest achievement in the study of chemistry. Michael K. Perloff received the AURELIAN AWARD, given to a senior who in the opinion of his classmates has distinguished himself here through sterling character, high scholarship and strong leadership, and above-average participation in extracurricular activities. The award was established more than 30 years ago by the Aurelian Honorary Society of Yale University to be presented by a small group of preparatory schools that the society recognized as leaders in the field of secondary education. Candidates are nominated by the faculty and selected by a vote of the senior class. Mr. Murray said, “‘One of the best students I have encountered in my 38 years,’ writes one teacher. In class, writes another, he ‘demonstrates genuine intellectual curiosity in posing trenchant questions and devising sophisticated answers. He is a delight to teach.’ This poised, polite individual rarely enters a conversation without taking the time first to listen thoughtfully and respectfully to the ideas of others. An accomplished writer, debater and deeply committed community servant, he is also a wonderfully kind individual. His admiring sponsor writes, he ‘has to be the single most liked guy at US, both by the rest of the boys and the faculty.’” Michael also received the Zachary A. Parmenter ’03 Award given to a Davey Fellow who has demonstrated special promise in his writing
Michael Chilcote ‘08 received the Cadmean Award. He is pictured with his family: grandparents William and Mary, parents William ‘70 and Barbara Kaplan, grandfather Stanley Kaplan
Headmaster Steve Murray presents the Aurelian Award to Michael Perloff ’08.
University School Journal · AUTuMN 2008 21
McConnell O’Shaughnessy Smith received the JAMES W. POTTS AWARD, given in memory of James Potts ’44, which is awarded to the senior who shows outstanding sportsmanship, forceful leadership and athletic ability. The athletic department nominates seniors and the graduating class votes to determine the winner. Mr. Murray said, “This tri-varsity athlete, writes one of his coaches, ‘truly defines what it means to be a University School student athlete... He leads by example through hard work and dedication in every sport.’ Simply put, he dazzled us with his performance this past fall. His football coach writes, ‘In recent years, University School has had a number of fine quarterbacks, but I cannot recall one who had as productive a season. Through hard work, intelligence, unfailing commitment, and natural talent, he established himself as one of the top quarterbacks in the state.’ A man of few words, there is a quiet, thoughtful, determined intensity about this individual who is heading off to a very bright future.” McConnell also received the T.E. White Spanish Award, recognizing outstanding work in Spanish. Benjamin Joseph Finnell received the JACK R. STAPLES AWARD, given to a senior who in the course of his career in varsity athletics has distinguished himself through selfless devotion to the best interests of his fellows and his team and conspicuous dedication to the highest ideals of competitive athletics. Mr. Murray stated, “‘University School is a better place because of him,’ writes one mentor. Indeed this scholar-athlete, this varsity soccer star and lacrosse captain, never let his own
Headmaster Steve Murray presents the James W. Potts Award to McConnell Smith ’08.
Benjamin Finnell ‘08 received the Jack R. Staples ‘57 Award. He is pictured with his father B.J. and brother Nicholas
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President of the Alumni Association James Bell ’74 presents the Alumni Medal to Jared Jones. The medal is given to the senior who earned the highest academic average.
Mac McGinty ‘08 and his family: John and Leigh, parents Kevin and US Trustee Nancy, Patty and Ken
Fitz Stueber ‘08 and his family: aunt Blair Herndon, cousin Cindy Herndon, grandparents “E” Fauver and Skip, parents Betsy and Fred ‘71, brother Chris ‘10
interests come before those of his teammates. Though small in stature, he plays with the heart of a lion and out of a pure love of the game. Off the field, a compliment on the previous night’s stellar play is met with a shy smile and a shrug, almost surprise. Once the uniform comes off, like Clark Kent behind his glasses, this young man drifts back to thoughts of Shakespeare, Plato and Adam Smith. This talented athlete lives up to the highest ideals instinctively, without effort, as if this part of his character is so deeply embedded that it requires no thought.” Benjamin also received the Carter Sanders Award given to the outstanding foreign language student, and the Richard D. Peters Journalism Award, given to a member of the US News who embodies the spirit, enthusiasm and love of journalism of Dick Peters, an alumnus and beloved master, who was also a distinguished journalist. Jared Fox Jones received the ALUMNI MEDAL, an award made by the US Alumni Association to the senior who over the course of the past three years has earned the highest academic average. The medal was presented at commencement by Mr. James Bell ‘74, the president of the US Alumni Association. Jared also received the Cobb Latin Prize, given in memory of Richard Ford Cobb ’32 who was the winner of the Earl gold Medal for Latin in 1932; and the Henry Stoddard Sherman Journalism Award, presented to the student with outstanding service to the school newspaper.
University School Journal · AUTuMN 2008 23
Matthew Gherlein ‘08 and his family: aunts Ester Fairchild and Donna Miller, parents Claudia and John ‘73, grandparents Rachel and Jack
Donald Daley ‘08 and his family: grandmother Joan, parents Barbara and Robert ‘77, brother John ‘09
David Pollock ‘08 and his family: brothers Adam and Chris, parents Toni and Mark ‘74
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Sam Stulberg ‘08 and his family: friend Carolyn Ross, aunt Karen McComish, grandmother Thea McComish, parents Bernard and Carolyn, brother Jonah ‘97, sisterin-law Dana, brother Ben ‘99
Eric ‘08 (heading to the state lacrosse tournament) and Peter Sords ‘08 and their family: parents Steven ‘81 and Ann, brother Sam ‘14, uncle Paul ‘80
Legacies: (front) Anders Lindseth, Erik Sords, Macauley Hatch, William Colvin, Donald Daley (middle) Henry Zimmerman, David Stueber, Matthew Gherlein, David Pollock, Benjamin Naylor, Charles Goss (back) Peter Sords, Michael Chilcote, Thomas France, Albert Chilcote, David Martin, Samuel Eisele
Wesley Martin ‘08 and his family: grandparents John and Ann Harris and John and Marlene Dawson, sister Elizabeth, parents David ‘79 and Catherine
Macauley Hatch ‘08 and his family: parents William ‘75 and Cyndi, brother Wesley
Albert Chilcote ‘08 and his family: grandparents William and Mary, parents David ‘76 and Nancy, sister Courtney
Lifers: (front) Alexander White, Michael Nair, Anders Lindseth, Samuel Stulberg (middle) Jordan Lurie, Audley Mackel, Andrew Moragne, Edmond Zaia, Alexander Kruger-Dubrota (back) Jacob Stoller, Andrew Vekstein, Samuel Muzzin, Timothy Scanlon, Benjamin Naylor, Michael Perloff, Zachary Kelm, Joshua Apple
University School Journal · AUTuMN 2008 25
These seniors received awards on Honors Day: Albert Wick Chilcote – Jan Schaffer Award recognizes a senior who has overcome the challenges of school life with extraordinary courage, loyalty and spirit Jonathan Stuart Danzig – Michael Dively ’57 Government Award, recognizing exceptional civic interest, awareness and knowledge of public affairs; Senior Speech Award, given to the best senior speaker Juan Jose Fernandez – W.G. Marshall Award recognizes excellence in French; Outdoor Projects Award which is presented to a student who demonstrates extraordinary growth in the study and management of natural resources on the Hunting Valley campus. Andrew Stuart Forcier – Headmaster’s Award given to the student who, in the eyes of the Headmaster, made significant and unheralded contributions to the life of the school Matthew Joseph Gherlein – Ian Miller ’89 Memorial Award, recognizing special sensitivity and a gift for friendship Andrew Marrott Gorman – Headmaster’s Award given to the student who, in the eyes of the Headmaster, made significant and unheralded contributions to the life of the school Jerome Paul Grisko III – George T. Clements’ 82 Memorial Prize, given to the student who best demonstrates a passionate zest for life and faith in mankind Audley M. Mackel IV – Headmaster’s Award given to the student who, in
the eyes of the Headmaster, made significant and unheralded contributions to the life of the school
Samuel Christopher Shunk – Healy Dowd ’52 Prize, awarded to the top jazz musician
Brian C. Matia – E.A. “Doc” Rolinson Award, given to the senior who has made the most progress or improvement during his upper school years
Nakul Singh – Daniel LoPresti ’03 Award recognizes a senior who has demonstrated qualities of spirited fellowship; History Prize, given to a student who demonstrates unusual aptitude and interest in history
Uchenna Okocha – Headmaster’s Award given to the student who, in the eyes of the Headmaster, made significant and unheralded contributions to the life of the school Robert Pryce O’Neil – Headmaster’s Award given to the student who, in the eyes of the Headmaster, made significant and unheralded contributions to the life of the school; Krill Drama Award recognizes conspicuous distinction in and contribution toward the dramatic arts Brandon Arthur Pichanik – Christopher Kelley ’78 Award, given in recognition of exceptional and spirited participation in the extracurricular life of the School Matthew James Pokorny – Greek Prize, awarded to the student with the greatest mastery of the Greek language John Christopher Ryder – American Association of Physics Teachers Award recognizes an outstanding physics student whose love of physics and dedication to science is exemplary Timothy Higgins Scanlon – Robert Derby Shop Award for excellence in the manual arts; Philip Rhodes McCurdy 1897 Prize awarded for superlative performance and unusual promise in natural science
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John Samuel Stulberg – Krill Drama Award recognizes conspicuous distinction in and contribution toward the dramatic arts Andrew David Swank – Art Prize, which recognizes special achievement and ongoing commitment to excellence in the studio arts Jay Wang – Edward L. Maas, Jr. ’58 Memorial Prize recognizes a distinguished mathematics student; Hadbavny Music Award, given to a talented musician who has contributed to the musical life of the School Justin Theodore Wedell – The Henry Strater Speech Award recognizes that student who best demonstrates excellence in logical and persuasive argument; English Prize recognizes excellence in the study of literature and discussion skills Edmond William Zaia – Edward L. Maas, Jr. ’58 Memorial Prize recognizes a distinguished mathematics student Henry Abram Zimmerman – Art Prize, which recognizes special achievement and ongoing commitment to excellence in the studio arts
Student Discipline Committee: Stephen Sreshta, Michael Chilcote, Edmund Zaia
Prefects: (front) Brandon Pichanick, Andrew Swank, Michael Perloff, Benjamin Finnell (back) Jacob Stoller, Alexander Freeman, William McGinty, Thomas France, Nakul Singh (not pictured) Harold Hartnett
Davey Fellows: (front) Alexander White, Andrew Swank, Benjamin Finnell (middle) Michael Perloff, Stephen Sreshta, Samuel Shunk, Justin Wedell (back) Daniel Smith, Thomas France, Alexander Freeman
The Strnad Fellows: (front) Andrew Lincoln, Jonathan Danzig, Andrew Forcier, Mrs. Edna Strnad, Dr. Nina P. Strnad, Andrew Moragne, Jeffrey Sasaki, Robert O’Neil, Upper School Director Michael Obel-Omia (row 2) Headmaster Steve Murray, Toby Manders, Henry Zimmerman, Anders Lindseth, Samuel Shunk, Samuel Stulberg, Edmond Zaia, David Pollock, John Ryder, Jay Wang (row 3) Timothy Scanlon, Paul Smetona, Michael Chilcote, Andrew Vekstein, Jacob Stoller, Wesley Martin, Jared Jones, Matthew Gherlein, Max Warren, Nakul Singh, James Schmitt, Brett Cieri, Strnad Fellowship Head David Devore University School Journal · AUTuMN 2008 27
Reunion Weekend '08 Reunion Weekend Celebrations by Jeffrey Starrett ‘75 Director of Alumni Relations
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Reunion Weekend kicked off with the annual Alumni Graduate Award dinner on Thursday evening. Henry Meyer ‘68 was honored as the recipient of the award at a celebration with more than 150 alumni and friends at the Shaker campus. His presenter, John Redeker ‘67, shared a few anecdotes about Henry before presenting the Man of the Year plaque to Henry. Both John and Henry talked about the school’s motto, “Responsibility, Loyalty, Consideration,” and how US had shaped their lives. On Friday morning, US TODAY, a program designed to give US alumni a look at US “in action” during a typical school day, began at the Hunting Valley campus with a talk at morning assembly by Chris Page ‘58, and then
continued with tours of the campus for all alumni, a conversation with Headmaster Steve Murray, and a Q & A session with 12 members of the class of 2008. The 40+ alumni in attendance thoroughly enjoyed their discussions with Steve and the seniors before moving to the Shaker campus. Pen Pals met many of the alumni at Shaker and gave them personal tours of that campus. Lunch in the “Chapel” followed where alumni joined the boys for pizza. On Friday evening, reunion classes from 1943 to 2003 met a local clubs, restaurants, homes and halls to celebrate their 5th through 65th reunions. Alumni from all over the world returned to reconnect with old classmates and share stories of their lives and memories from the past.
included talks by three members of the Class of 1958 and two members of the US faculty. Reunion Weekend then continued in force at the Alumni Picnic. Burgers, hotdogs and beverages were plentiful at the Smythe Pavilion while the traditional “Softball Challenge for the Can” took place on the new Field Turf field. That evening, the Four School Reception with more than 700 guests at Hunting Valley, kicked off a night of even more fun for all alumni. Reunion ROCK followed on the Smythe Pavilion. With a roaring fire, live music and plenty of food and beverage available, hundreds of alumni and their friends spent the last night of the busy weekend. See you next year May 14-17, 2009 at the 60th Annual Reunion Weekend.
Saturday morning began with a lively program at Hunting Valley that
US Today
Chris Page ’58 spoke to the Upper School boys about never giving up and other important lessons he has learned throughout his incredibly full, rich life.
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A group of seniors answered questions and spoke candidly to the alumni during the Friday morning program.
Henry Meyer III ’68 Receives Alumni Graduate Award Each year the University School Alumni Association makes an honorary award to a US graduate of 40 years or more in recognition of outstanding service to his country or community. This year the 59th Alumni Graduate Award was given to Henry Meyer.
Presentor John Redeker ’67, Henry Meyer ’68, Headmaster Steve Murray
H
enry Meyer is chairman of the board and chief executive officer of KeyCorp. He has been a member of KeyCorp’s Board of Directors since 1996. At University School, Henry played varsity football, basketball and tennis, and was the associate editor of the US News and the Mabian. He earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from Colgate University in 1972 and an MBA from Harvard University in 1978. Henry joined the former Society National Bank (now Key) in 1972 as a management trustee, and was given positions of increasing responsibility in the credit and commercial banking departments. In 1984, he transferred to Dayton where he ultimately became president of Society Bank, National Association. Henry returned to Cleveland in 1987 after being elected executive vice president of Society Corporation and senior executive vice president of Society National Bank, responsible for Society’s retail banking sector. He was elected vice chairman of the board of Society National Bank in 1989, president and chief operating officer in 1990, chief executive officer in 1993, and chairman of the board in 1994. Henry was elected vice chairman of the board and chief banking officer of Society Corporation in 1991. He was elected senior executive vice
president and chief banking officer of the new KeyCorp in 1994, and was elected its chief operating officer in May 1995. He was elected vice chairman of the board of KeyCorp in September 1996, president in May 1997, and chief executive officer in February 2001. He was elected chairman of the board of KeyCorp in May 2001. Henry has been an active member of the University School Alumni Association for many years and is a member of the University School Board of Trustees, serving as its president from 2004 to 2007. Active in civic and cultural life, Henry serves on several boards in the greater Cleveland area. He serves as a trustee of the Law Enforcement Foundation, Inc., Northeast Ohio Council on Higher Education, and ideastream (WVIZ/PBS and WCPN). He is a board member and immediate past chairman of the board of trustees of United Way of Greater Cleveland, and is a board member and past chairman of the board of directors of both University Hospitals Health System, Inc. and University Hospitals
Christopher ’06, Jane and Henry Meyer
of Cleveland. Henry is chairman of the board of the Greater Cleveland Partnership. He is an immediate past member of the board of the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland, and currently serves on the Federal Advisory Council of the Federal Reserve System. He serves as a director of Continental Airlines, Inc. Henry and his wife Jane have three sons: Patrick ‘02, Andrew ‘04 and Christopher ‘06.
University School Journal · AUTuMN 2008 29
Reunion Weekend '08 Saturday Morning Program Saturday morning began with a program at Hunting Valley that included talks by three members of the class of 1958. Basem Hismeh, Rufus Day and Charlie Michener shared with the audience of 60+ alumni and family stories about their lives since graduating 50 years earlier. Each also discussed lessons learned at US that helped shape them into the men they had become. The second part of the program featured two members of the US faculty, Ed Rabel and Alan Cate, each with vast experience in journalism and the US government, in a lively discussion about United States foreign policy in Iraq.
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4 School Reception
More than 700 guests kicked off a night of fun at the Four School Reception, this year held at University School. Alumni/ae from US, HB, Laurel and Hawken shared stories in the Stouffer Dining hall with the music from the US Jazz band in the background.
University School Journal 路 AUTuMN 2008 31
Reunion Weekend '08 Reunion Classes these will be B/W
The class of
The class of 1953
The class of 1948
The class of 1958
The class of 1968
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The class of 1973 The class of 1978
The class of 1983
The class of 1988
1978
The class of 1998
University School Journal 路 AUTuMN 2008 33
Reunion Weekend '08 Alumni Picnic
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these will be B/W
More than125 alumni and family members enjoyed a beautiful day at the Alumni Picnic. Burgers, hotdogs and beverages were plentiful at the Smythe Pavilion while the traditional “Softball Challenge for the Can” took place on the new Field Turf field. The “Non ‘98s,” a team made up of old and young alumni, defeated the class of 1998 in a hard fought game (or two) to win bragging rights to the Can for a year. The roaring fire in the pavilion, the enthusiastic play on the softball field, the smell of burgers on the grill and the hundreds of “Oh my god, I haven’t seen you in years!” that were heard all day made this year’s Picnic a true success.
University School Journal · AUTuMN 2008 35
Reunion Weekend '08 Softball Challenge
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African American Reception
About 125 African American alumni gathered once again this year with current US African American students and families to reminisce about their US experiences and their lives since high school.
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Homecoming Family Festival by Jeffrey Starrett ‘75 Once again, all was good in Hunting Valley during the 119th Homecoming celebration! The 119th University School Homecoming took place on Saturday, Sept. 27 on the Hunting Valley campus under blue skies and 75-degree temperatures. The Homecoming Alumni Picnic in the Smythe Pavilion helped kick off the day’s festivities at noon. All 2,500 guests – alumni, parents, students and friends - enjoyed hotdogs, salad, apple cider, cookies and the famous John Jolly-Prepper Chili. The Fall Family Festival again was a hit. The festival, begun six years ago in an attempt to help attract more US alumni as well as current US students and their parents to Homecoming, was in full swing by noon. Held on the practice football fields, inflatable games such as the 40-foot rock wall, two different obstacle course slides and the Bungee Bull kept children of all ages busy throughout the afternoon. In the Smythe Pavilion, the US Jazz Band entertained the crowd enjoying “John Jolly Prepper Chili,” cider and hotdogs at the picnic tables with help from face painters, magicians and caricature artists. And once again, the famous Euclid Beach Rocket car provided thrills for all ages as it took children for rides around the campus. US sports teams started play at 10 a.m. that morning and played throughout the day. Freshman, JV and varsity soccer all competed against Mayfield, winning two of the three games, while the varsity football team defeated longtime foe Kiski Prep. Thank you again to all the volunteers, parent and alumni, and members of the US Facility Maintenance Department who made this day possible. Thanks to the many volunteers and more beautiful weather, Homecoming 2008 was our biggest yet! See you next year!!
120th Homecoming Saturday September 26, 2009
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Athletics
By Jim Garrett
Lacrosse Team Wins State Championship!
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ed by captains Ben Finnell ‘08, Mac McGinty ‘08, and Andrew Vekstein ‘08, the 2008 University School varsity lacrosse team captured the OHSLA Division II state title by defeating Loveland, 11-5, in the championship game on June 7th at Dublin Coffman High School in Columbus. It was the second OHSLA state championship in the history of lacrosse at University School as the 2008 team joined only the 1999 team as OHSLA state champions. “Our seven seniors led this team to their goal of a state championship by their work ethic and commitment on and off the field,” said fourth-year Coach Jack Fisher ‘96. In addition to captains Finnell, McGinty, and Vekstein, other senior leaders included Grant Gettinger ‘08, Audley Mackel ‘08, Tim Scanlon ‘08, and Erik Sords ‘08. Featuring a ball-control, possessionstyle offense and a ball-denying, team-oriented defense, the 2008 US team compiled an outstanding 17-4 record against many of the best lacrosse teams in Ohio. After an opening-game loss to Hudson, 8-2, US dominated its other early-season opponents, defeating Cleveland Heights, 13-3, Kent Roosevelt, 14-0, Walsh Jesuit, 12-6, Chagrin Falls, 13-3, Gilmour, 10-1, and Hawken, 14-8. Tough losses to Sylvania, 10-8, Wooster, 11-4, and St. Ignatius, 8-6, only steeled the team’s resolve as its senior leaders set their sights on the OHSLA playoffs.
The 2008 University School varsity lacrosse team captured the OHSLA Division II state title by defeating Loveland, 11-5, in the championship game in Columbus.
A turning point came after an uninspiring 6-2 victory over Shaker Heights in mid-May when the captains called a players-only team meeting. Although Coach Fisher never found out the exact contents of the meeting, his newly inspired team did not lose again, finishing the remainder of the regular season undefeated and notching convincing playoff victories over Bay Village, 19-0, Gilmour, 12-5, St. Francis de Sales, 15-5, and Solon, 8-6, before its championship game victory over Loveland. “Our team played a possession offense and a team defense that requires players who are skilled and smart. We had both,” Fisher said, “and we played fundamental, not flashy, lacrosse, especially in the playoffs when it counted.” US’s possession-style offense featured Offensive MVP Vekstein, Ben Bold ‘09, Tyler Brockett ‘09, and Brian Stovsky ‘09 at attack as well as midfielders
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Finnell and Will Gilkeson ‘10. The team’s smothering defense included versatile midfielders Mackel and T.W. Gross ‘09 as well as stalwart defensemen McGinty, Scanlon, Mike Sotak ‘09, and Defensive MVP Tommy Visconsi ‘09 in front of goalkeeper Adam Daroff ‘10. Next year’s team hopes to repeat as state champs led by captains Gross, Stovsky, and Visconsi.
Facing page top: US’s possessionstyle offense revolved around the outstanding play of captain and Offensive MVP Andrew Vekstein ‘08. Facing page bottom: The 2008 lacrosse team relied on the solid play and strong leadership of captain Mac McGinty ‘08.
Track Team Runs to Best Season Ever
At the regional championship, US enjoyed its finest performance of the season, earning its first ever regional championship and qualifying nine US athletes for the state championship meet.
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ven US track and field coach emeritus Rollin DeVere, whose tenure spanned four decades, shook his head in admiration. “This is the best we’ve ever had,” DeVere said about the record-setting 2008 University School track and field team. Led by outstanding captains Harry Hartnett ‘08 and Matt Kelly ‘08 and by third-year head coach and NewsHerald Coach-of-the-Year Pete Zappas, the 2008 University School track and field team combined exceptional depth, balance, leadership, and versatility to become the most successful team in the history of US track and field. “This team worked very hard all season, and our athletes just got better and better every week,” Coach Zappas said with pride. “We had great leadership from our captains
and our seniors and a lot of talent, depth, and balance.” The major highlights of the season came at the OHSAA district, regional, and state championship meets. On May 24 at Painesville, US won its first district title since 1991, finishing first of 15 teams. A week later on May 31 at Ravenna, US won its first ever regional championship, finishing first of 48 teams. Finally, on June 6 and 7, US went to Ohio State University with nine athletes to compete in the state championship meet, placed seventh out of 119 teams in Division II, and won its first ever state championship in track and field as the 4x200 meter relay team of Stephon Lynch ‘08, co-captains Kelly and Hartnett, and Justin Chappell ‘09 ran a 1:29.11 for first place.
University School Journal · AUTuMN 2008 41
Athletics
meter relay of Chappell, Kelly, Jon Brachna ‘10, and Lynch with a time of 3:29.26. On May 9 US won the Mayfield Invitational for the second time in three years, finishing first of eight teams. The top performances for US were the first-place finishes of the distance medley relay of Emory Polley ‘10, Jared Jones ‘08, Brachna, and Greg Jantzen ‘10; Paul McKelvey ‘08 in the 110 hurdles; the 4x100 meter relay of White, Stoller, Chappell, and Mac Smith ‘08; and Andy Gorman ‘08 in the 3200 meter run.
With hard work and commitment, Co-captain Harry Hartnett ‘08 led the track team to its best season ever.
It was a fitting end to a highly successful season, which began on March 29 when US competed in the fifth-annual Tiger Relays at Warrensville, finishing second of six teams and placing nine athletes and three relays in the top three in their events. At the very competitive Longstreth Relays held at Western Reserve Academy, US finished third of 12 teams with medalists in the throws, jumps, sprints, and distance races. As the season progressed, US relied on its talent, depth, and hard work to capture first place at the Gilmour Invitational and the Trinity Invitational. The highlight of the Gilmour meet was Chappell’s second in the long jump and first in the 200 meter dash with a meet record of 21.99.
MVP Justin Chappell ‘09 competed in two relays and the 200 meter dash at the state championship meet in Columbus.
At the Trinity meet US came into its own as the team finished first out of 18 teams. First-place finishers for US were Kelly in the 300 hurdles with a time of 40.97; Chappell in the 200 meter dash with a meet record time of 22.12; Lynch in the 400 meter dash with a time of 51.06; the 4x100 meter relay of Alex White ‘08, Jake Stoller ‘08, Chappell, and Hartnett with a meet record time of 44.01; the 4x200 meter relay of Lynch, Kelly, White, and Hartnett with a meet record time of 1:31.94; and the 4x400
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At the district championship at Painesville, US not only won its first title since 1991 but also qualified athletes in 12 events for the regional championship meet. These athletes included Uchenna Okocha ‘08 in the high jump; Jerry Grisko ‘08 in the shot put; Julian Marshall ‘08 in the high jump; Chappell in the long jump; Kelly in the 300 hurdles; McKelvey in the 110 hurdles; Gorman in the 3200; the 4x200 meter relay of Lynch, Kelly, White, and Hartnett; the 4x800 meter relay of Brachna, Chris Rothfusz ‘11, Brandon Jackson ‘10, and Polley; and district champions Grisko in the discus; Chappell in the 200 meter dash; and the 4x400 meter relay of Brachna, Kelly, Hartnett, and Chappell. At the regional championship at Ravenna, US enjoyed its finest performance of the season, earning its first ever regional championship and qualifying nine US athletes for the state championship meet in Columbus. Chappell finished first in the 200 meter dash, breaking his own school record with a time of 21.93. The
Athletics
4x200 meter relay of Lynch, Kelly, Hartnett, and Chappell finished first, breaking the school record set three years ago with a time of 1:28.68. The 4x400 meter relay made up of the same members as the 4x200 also finished first with another school record time of 3:24.98. The remaining state qualifier was Grisko, who finished third in the discus with a toss of 142ft. 3in.. At the state championships at Jesse Owens Stadium on the campus of Ohio State University, US finished seventh out of 119 teams in Division II. Besides US’s state championship in the 4x200 meter relay, the same members of the 4x200 meter relay also competed in the 4x400 meter relay preliminaries but finished in 10th, narrowly missing the finals. Chappell also helped the US team to its best finish in state competition by finishing second in the 200 meter dash with a time of 22.17, and Grisko finished in 15th in a loaded discus field. The 2009 varsity track team has its sights set on returning to Columbus and finishing even higher next season. Its captains will be John Chen ‘09 and Jonathan Brachna.
Senior Infielders Lead Varsity Baseball
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ed by tri-captains Yule Baron ‘08, Jordan Lurie ‘08, and Sam Muzzin ‘08, the 2008 University School baseball team competed in the highly competitive Cuyahoga River Baseball Conference, compiling a 2-7 conference record and a 9-16 overall record against some of the top-ranked teams in Northeast Ohio. “This year’s team was young and inexperienced,” said second-year head coach Ben Boka, “but our players steadily improved throughout the season.” After beginning the season with tough losses to Benedictine, 10-1, and Euclid, 6-2, US battled eventual state runner-up Walsh Jesuit but fell, 3-2. Despite a subsequent loss to St. Edward, 9-0, US’s performance against Walsh Jesuit proved to be an early sign of the team’s potential as US knocked off its next opponent,
Above: Along with Pat Shedlock ‘09, catcher Will Clements ‘09 will co-captain the 2009 varsity baseball team.
Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin, 3-1, for its first victory of the season. “The NDCL game was a turning point for some of our younger players,” Coach Boka said. “It gave them confidence in their abilities.” At midseason US outlasted Chardon, 16-13, trounced Eastlake North, 12-1, edged SVSM, 4-3, and stayed close in tough losses to Benedictine, 5-3, Willoughby South, 4-3, Lake Catholic, 7-6, and twice against Gilmour, 5-2 and 2-1. Toward the end of the season, US played its best baseball in victories over SVSM, 18-6, WRA, 7-3, and Orange, 7-3, and won its first-round game in the OHSAA playoffs, defeating Kenston, 13-3, but in the second round
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Athletics
Tennis Team Advances to Sectional Final
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ed by tri-captains Zak Kelm ‘08, Steven Shin ‘08, and Paul Smetona ‘08, the 2008 varsity tennis team compiled a 13-3 dual match record against many of the top tennis programs in Northeast Ohio and beyond. At the OHSAA Division II state tournament in Columbus at the end of May, MVP Kelm advanced to the final eight in the state in singles, while the doubles team of Shin and Seth Udelson ‘09 advanced to the final 16. In the OTCA Coaches’ Team Tournament US aimed for a seven consecutive berth in the championship match, but the Preppers’ streak ended in a grueling, closely contested match as Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy, a team that eventually advanced to the state semifinals, edged US, 3-2. In 2002 and 2005 University School won the OTCA state team championship, and in 2003, 2004, 2006, and 2007 US finished as the state runner-up.
One of the highlights of the season was the sure-handed play of co-captain and shortstop Jordan Lurie ‘08.
dropped a nail-biter to highly ranked Lake Catholic, 7-6. The strength of the team was its senior infield. Led by MVP shortstop Lurie, who was also the team leader in batting average, the infield featured the sure gloves of Baron at first and Muzzin at third. Once Mike DeBarr ‘08 found a home at second, his steady play rounded out US’s experienced, sure-handed infield defense. A youthful, versatile, and promising outfield included Brian Hess ‘10 in right, Chris Harris ‘10 in center, and Zach Persky ‘10 in left, while catcher Will Clements ‘09 handled a pitching staff led by Pat Shedlock ‘09. With a corps of players returning who gained valuable experience in 2008, next year´s team has its sights set on advancing in the 2009 OHSAA playoffs. The co-captains will be Will Clements and Pat Shedlock.
Reflecting on the 2008 season’s highlights, first-year head coach Greg Aten expressed pride in the team’s accomplishments. “This team faced a lot of adversity but pulled together,” Aten said. “Our players overcame a number of injuries and illnesses and line-up changes throughout the season. But it turned out to be a tremendous year.” In 2008 US tennis counted on depth and hard work to establish its high ranking in Northeast Ohio. After beginning the season with impressive victories over Brecksville, 4-1, and Hawken, 4-1, US finished second of eight teams at the competitive St. Edward Tournament before embarking on the highlight of the season, a mid-April road trip to Columbus to play three of Central Ohio’s best teams. In Columbus on consecutive days, US knocked off a talented Lexington team, 3-2, defeated the eventual Division I state runner up Upper Arlington, 4-1, and lost a hard-fought match to the eventual Division II state champion Columbus Academy, 4-1. The Columbus trip rounded US into top-notch form. Rebounding from a tough loss to Solon, 3-2, US played its best tennis in the second half of the season, finishing sixth of 15 teams at the NEMA Tournament in Maryland and defeating Beachwood, 4-1, Hudson, 4-1, WRA, 5-0, Orange, 4-1, and, in the OTCA tournament sectional semifinals, Canton Central Catholic, 4-1. MVP Kelm led US on and off the court. Once he returned from an early-season ankle injury, he played first singles throughout the season. At second singles Smetona’s steady play was one of US’s strengths, while Ishaan Sutaria ‘09 competed for most of the season at third singles. With MVP Shin and Udelson excelling at first doubles, Coach Aten paired Alex Kedia ‘09 at second doubles with either Will Colvin ‘08 or Will Young ‘10 to complete US’s potent line-up. Next year’s US varsity tennis team will look to return to state-level competition in Columbus behind the leadership of captain-elect Seth Udelson.
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Athletics
US Swims to Third in State
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sn’t swimming an individual sport? “Most people consider swimming to be the epitome of an individual sport,” Coach Brian Perry ‘89 said at the winter sports dessert in March, “but I would argue that it was as a team that we had such a successful season this year.” Behind the leadership of tri-captains Sean Evans ‘08, Dominic Finelli ‘08, and Andrew Moragne ‘08, the 20072008 US varsity swim team proved the value of team effort by compiling an 11-3 dual meet record, winning the district title, qualifying eight swimmers for state competition, and finishing third at the state meet, tying the 2004-2005 swim team for the highest state-ranking in School history. “If you look behind the times and the scores,” Coach Perry said, “you will see the true reason for our success.” Team effort. This team effort highlighted the district meet when every one of US’s 12 swimmers swam lifetime best times. “At districts every point counted,” Coach Perry explained as US pulled away from Solon to win the district championship. US’s two district champions were four-time district champion Evans in the 100 backstroke, whose 51.01 broke his own district and School record, and Ian Stewart-Bates ‘09 in the 200 free (1:41.68). At the state meet US swimmers excelled again. MVP Stewart-Bates placed fifth in two individual events (the 200 freestyle and the 500 free-
Tri-captain Andrew Moragne ‘08 led US to an 11-3 dual meet record, a district title, and a third-place in the state.
Coach Brian Perry led the 20072008 US swim team to third-place in the state.
District champion and MVP Sean Evans ‘08 set a School record and swam second in the state in the 100 backstroke, his 50.75 only two-tenths of a second from a state title.
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Athletics
Wrestling 2008
Harrison Hightower ‘10 won the 130pound Division II state championship.
District champion and MVP Ian Stewart-Bates ‘09 placed fifth in two individual events (the 200 freestyle and the 500 freestyle) at the state meet.
style). MVP Tyler Bailey ‘09 who placed ninth in two events at the state meet, also joined Stewart-Bates in US’s third-place, record-breaking 400 freestyle relay with Evans and Finelli. Finally, MVP Evans, one of the finest swimmers in US history, also set another School record and swam second in the state in the 100 backstroke, his 50.75 only twotenths of a second from a state title. The future is indeed bright for the 2008-2009 swim team as fourteen of the US’s 24 swimmers and divers were freshmen. This youthful and promising group will be captained by Tyler Bailey and Ian Stewart-Bates.
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or the fourth time in six years, University School is home to a state wrestling champion as Harrison Hightower ‘10 won the 130-pound state championship, joining the elite company of 112-pound Dennis Roche ’06 (2006), 112-pound Adam Kriwinsky ’06 (2004), and 145-pound Chris Tripp ’04 (2003), as US state wrestling champions. It was a fitting end to the most successful season in University School wrestling history. Led by captain Julian Rosen ‘08 and assistant captain James Inghram ‘09, the 2007-2008 University School wrestling team compiled a 12-5 dual meet record, won the sectional championship, finished as the district runner-up, and, qualifying a record six wrestlers for state competition, captured fourthplace at the OHSAA Division II state wrestling championship. The six state qualifiers was the highest number in US wrestling history. “Our team was as successful as other teams but younger,” fourth-year head coach Sean Grosz said. According to Coach Grosz, a good sign of this team’s outstanding potential came at
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the prestigious Top Gun Tournament when US wrestled second out of 41 teams. “Our success at Top Gun let us know what we were capable of,” Coach Grosz said. Other noteworthy team accomplishments include US’s third-place of 33 teams at the North Canton Holiday Tournament and its fourth-place at the Division II State Duals championship. At the sectional meet US dominated as 11 of its 13 wrestlers qualified for districts. At districts US again excelled as three wrestlers, Inghram (112), Hightower (130), and Nick Mills ‘09 (171), won district championships and three other wrestlers, Brad Wukie ‘10 (135), Mac Hatch ‘08 (140), and Rosen (189), qualified to wrestle at the state championship meet. At the state meet Inghram and Mills wrestled to third against the best competition in the state, while Wukie wrestled sixth and Rosen wrestled eighth. Since four of US’s six state qualifiers were underclassmen, the future of US wrestling is indeed promising.
Athletics
Hockey 2008
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funny thing happened to the University School varsity hockey team on its way to the OHSAA state championship in Columbus.
Heavyweight Mac McGinty ‘08 contributed senior leadership to the success of this year’s outstanding wrestling team.
After compiling an impressive 22-11-1 record against the best hockey teams in Northeast Ohio and beyond, the 20072008 University School varsity hockey team was poised to defend its Baron Cup championship and earn a repeat trip to the OHSAA state final four in Columbus. “It was a shocking ending,” Coach Bill Beard said after US’s overtime loss to Mentor, 3-2, in the district semifinal of the state playoffs. “But we played the game with a tremendous amount of heart.”
Nick Mills ‘09 wrestled to third-place in the state in the 171-pound weight class.
Captain Julian Rosen ‘08 wrestled to eighth-place in the state in the 189pound weight class.
Led by captain Michael Chilcote ‘09 and assistant captains Yule Baron ‘08 and John Ryder ‘08, the US hockey team emerged as one of the top contenders in Northeast Ohio for the Baron Cup and the state championship. At the Shadyside Thanksgiving Classic, the Padua Holiday Cup, the Iceline Holiday Tournament, and the Buffalo St. Francis Invitational, US skated well against several of the top-ranked hockey programs in the Midwest. Against local competition US dominated its opponents, winning seven in a row in December and defeating Lake Catholic, 4-0, Shaker Heights, 8-2, St. Edward, 5-2, and St. Ignatius, 5-1. But in the semifinal of the Baron Cup, US fell, 3-0, to St. Edward, and, despite US’s 77 to 18 advantage in shots on goal, the Preppers’ season ended against Mentor in the district semifinal. “It was one of the biggest upsets in the history of high school hockey in Ohio,” Coach Beard remarked.
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The team, led by Chilcote, Baron, Ryder, Erik Sords ‘08, and Peter Sords ‘08, was as balanced and deep a team as Coach Beard has coached at US. “We had four lines and everybody contributed,” Beard said. “This team competed consistently well throughout the season. The players on this team were always there for each other.” Much of the scoring was shared by Ryder (19 goals), Pat Shedlock ‘09 (19), Chilcote (17), and Kevin Ryder ‘09 (17). The defense was built around goalies Peter Sords and Jamie Regan ‘10, whose combined efforts held opponents to an average of less than two goals per game over 34 games. At the winter sports dessert Coach Beard awarded the MVP to Michael Chilcote and Peter Sords. With 15 underclassmen returning for the 2008-2009 season, next year’s team will set its sights on the Baron Cup and a trip to Columbus for the final four of the OHSAA state hockey championship.
Goalie and MVP Peter Sords ‘08 held opponents to an average of less than two goals per game over thirty-four games.
Basketball Relies on Balance and Teamwork
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The 2007-2008 US hockey team compiled an impressive 22-11-1 record.
In his tenth year as head coach of US varsity hockey, Coach Bill Beard is surrounded by players and fans during one of this year’s games.
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he story of the 2007-2008 University School varsity basketball season cannot be found in the box scores or on a highlight film. “Because of strong senior leadership and good team chemistry,” third-year Coach Chris Osolin said, “this team played together and competed in every game. Except for the St. Ignatius game, we were in every game and never lost by more than six points. This team was a pleasure to coach.” Led by captain Uchenna Okocha ‘08 and McConnell Smith ‘08, the University School varsity basketball team posted an 11-10 record against top-ranked competition in Greater Cleveland. Highlights of the season included an upset victory over WRA, 68-65 (OT), victories over Normandy, 60-54, and Cleveland Central Catholic, 43-40, in the Normandy Tournament, and victories over rivals Gilmour, 59-57, Orange, 58-50, and Hawken, 68-53. Even late-season losses to highly ranked Benedictine, 46-43, and Shaker Heights, 57-55, in which US led most of the way, only demonstrated US’s improved, teamoriented play. “This team played its best against its best opponents,” Coach Osolin said. In the OHSAA sectional semifinal US defeated East High, 73-29, before losing to Lake Catholic, 47-44, in the sectional final game. The offensive scoring was balanced. Dan Murphy ‘09 averaged 11.7 points and 8.4 rebounds a game, while
Playmaker and captain-elect Nolan Thompson ‘09 averaged 9.1 points, 5.7 assists, and 4.3 rebounds a game. Captain Uchenna Okocha ‘08 contributed strong leadership and aggressive defense.
Cameron Chittock ‘09 averaged 10.5 points and 6.3 rebounds. Guard Nolan Thompson ‘09 added 9.1 points, 5.7 assists, and 4.3 rebounds, and Harry Briggs ‘10 notched 8.7 points and 3.5 assists. On and off the court, seniors Okocha and Smith provided strong leadership as both aggressive defenders and skillful playmakers.
Captain-elect Cameron Chittock ‘09 averaged 10.5 points and 6.3 rebounds a game.
Captain-elect Dan Murphy ‘09 averaged 11.7 points and 8.4 rebounds a game.
At the winter sports dessert Coach Osolin awarded the MVP to McConnell Smith and announced next year’s four captains will be Cameron Chittock, Greg Groves ‘09, Nolan Thompson, and Dan Murphy.
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From the Valley to the Heights Faculty News Upper School art teacher Chris Davis had a one-person art show this past winter at the Ross Museum of Art at Ohio Wesleyan University. The show is the result of Mr. Davis being named Alumni Artist of the Year at Ohio Wesleyan. Mr. Davis is the first artist to receive the newlyendowed honor. Eric Dina ’94, Shaker campus instrumental music teacher, conducted the Suburban Symphony Orchestra on May 18th in a performance of William Grant Still’s “Afro American” Symphony. Mr. Dina is a former student of Martin Kessler, head of the music department at the Upper School. Mr. Kessler conducted Samuel Barber’s “A School for Scandal” and other works. Brian Perry ‘89, varsity swimming coach, was named Coach of the Year in The Plain Dealer’s “Best of the Best” for leading the team to finish third at the state competition and to compete in the consolation and final rounds for the first time in the School’s history.
Brady Hurley Receives Alumni Faculty Fellowship The Alumni Faculty Fellowship to honor and reward outstanding teachers who have contributed significantly to the quality of the Shaker campus was given to third grade teacher and team leader, soccer, golf and football coach, Brady Hurley who has taught at the school since 2002. The Fellowship was established in 1987 by the University School Alumni Association to be given each year to a fulltime faculty member of at least five years’ tenure. The recipient receives a generous cash grant to be used for both personal and professional development. His citation reads: He takes his young learners on a voyage through the tombs of the ancient pharaohs, along the trails the Native Americans, and across the blazing Outback. On this exciting adventure, he encourages boys to wonder, to dream, to imagine. With deep commitment to their learning, he invites his students to try and try again; his endless patience allows boys the space to be boys; his constant encouragement instills self-confidence in their hearts.
Varsity football coach James Stephens received the prestigious award for sportsmanship, ethics, and integrity from The Ohio High School Football Coaches Association. He was selected for the award by fellow head coaches in the Cuyahoga County region. Mr. Stephens teaches Upper School English and is the McKinley Chair holder in Teaching Excellence.
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For his depth of caring and his love of teaching, The 2008 Alumni Faculty Fellowship Is awarded this day, May 28, 2008 To Brady A. Hurley
Lower School Director Gail Stein, Alumni Association President Jim Bell ’74, third grade teacher Brady Hurley
FROM THE VALLEY TO THE HEIGHTS
Janice Fazio, Robert Marquard Receive Seelbach Fellowships The Seelbach Fellowship for outstanding classroom teaching and exceptional contribution to the School was given to Upper School English teacher Janice Fazio who has taught at US since 1998. She also serves as advisor for the Davey Fellows, Sherman Prize Speakers and Senior Speeches; and to eighth grade science teacher Robert Marquard who has taught at US since 2003. The Fellowship was named for William Seelbach ’40, who was a great contributor at US, at Yale, and later in the civic and business life of Cleveland. Shortly after Bill Seelbach’s death, the Seelbach family created a memorial most fitting to a man who cared so deeply for University School. Together they decided that at the heart of a great school are great teachers — and whatever could be done to underscore their often invisible work would most honor the memory of the award’s namesake and the teacher elected.
Jan Fazio’s citation reads:
Bob Marquard’s citation reads:
“Love goes toward love as schoolboys from their books,” perhaps; and yet she inspires her “schoolboys” back to their books, to examine “the green-ey’d monster,” to consider “that cuckhold [who] lives in bliss,” to ponder “an unauthorized kiss.” After all, she asks, “What’s this thing called love?” Leading her young charges on a journey from Shakespeare to Morrison, from Irving to Atwood, from Donne to Neruda, she nurtures confident voices, careful writing, critical thinking, and above all an appreciation of the complexity of the human condition. In this way she adds significantly to our collective effort to produce young men of good heart and soul. The William F. Seelbach Faculty Fellowship is presented with the good wishes and respect of University School to Janice Fazio
Headmaster Steve Murray, Upper School English teacher Jan Fazio and Upper School Director Michael Obel-Omia
With the discipline of a seasoned researcher and a spontaneous sense of fun, he invites his young charges to marvel at the natural world. As they design solar-powered racers, muck their way through the sludge test, bend elements over an open flame, test the frequency of a short wave radio, and ponder the resonance of a Tesla coil, he always bring his science Olympians back to the question, “Why?” For his life-long love of learning, for bringing a sense of excitement to the laboratory, for instilling in his students an insatiable quest for understanding, the William F. Seelbach Faculty Fellowship is presented with the good wishes and respect of University School to Robert D. Marquard
Headmaster Steve Murray, Middle School Director Shelly Saltzman, Alumni Association President Jim Bell ’74, eighth grade science teacher Robert Marquard
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Cleveland Boys’ School Partnership A Global Philosopher Hayden Lane ‘14 was named “The Most Philosophical 6th Grader in America” by the 2008 Kids Philosophy Slam this past spring. Hayden’s essay, selected as the best in the nation in the sixth grade category, addressed the philosophical question: Is global warming the greatest challenge facing humankind?
Sixth grade science teacher Karen Godenschwager, Hayden Lane '14, Student Enrichment Director, Patty Dowd
The Kids Philosophy Slam is an annual program designed to make philosophy fun and accessible to children of all ages, as well as to promote critical thinking skills. The program received more than 5,000 entries from across the nation for this year’s competition.
In his winning essay, Hayden states that while global warming is a significant problem, the greatest challenges facing humankind are people’s underlying negative behaviors that are causing it, namely greed, competition, indifference, and a lack of accountability. Hayden believes that without addressing these behaviors first, global warming will be replaced with other devastating problems.
Ten US Lower School boys visited Citizens’ Academy, a charter school in Cleveland, for a “lunch and literature” activity. After eating and socializing, the boys from both schools gathered in small groups to discuss the short story, “Ooka and the Honest Thief” by I.G. Edmonds. This is the story of a jobless man who steals just enough rice to feed his family, then secretly returns it in full after he finds work. Is it possible to be an “honest thief?”
Ben Wesorick ‘16
Sixth graders competing in The Kids Philosophy Slam were asked to write prose, poetry, create a song or musical composition, or write an essay of 500 words or less, in answering the question. Entries were judged on the basis of originality and creativity, strength of philosophical argument, spelling, and grammar. Jack Freefield ‘17
US Junior Committed to helping Children in Honduras
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randon Jackson ‘10 has been selected as a regional finalist in the Kohl’s Kids Who Care Scholarship Program for his contributions to the Hope for Honduran Children Foundation. For the past three years, Brandon has been actively involved with the organization in support of an orphanage for neglected and abandoned boys in Flor Azul, Honduras. He was selected from more than 1,800 students nationwide as one of 190 regional winners in the competition. He will receive a $1,000 scholarship to the college of his choice. Ten
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winners will be selected from the regional group for national recognition and a $5,000 scholarship. Brandon first came in contact with the Hope for Honduran Children Foundation when he was in eighth grade and its founder, Karen Godt, made a speech at University School. Inspired by her message that “one person can make a difference” and encouraged by his teachers and school administrators, Brandon went to work and to date has raised more than $20,000 to support the cause.
FROM THE VALLEY TO THE HEIGHTS
After the discussion, the boys from both schools shared how much they enjoy the camaraderie of the Boys-toBoys Reading Partnership, a program of the University School Center for Excellence. Research consistently shows that boys lose interest in reading, even recreationally, as they approach adolescence. Through several activities during the year, the boys at both schools helped each other to become motivated, life-long readers.
Tommy Neff ‘17
Globe Project Enhances Environmental Awareness Lower School students literally had the world in their hands as they worked diligently on a creative project to commemorate Earth Day and to teach others about environmental concerns across the globe. The kindergarten through 5th grade students created 16 large, colorful and imaginative globes of the earth, with each globe illustrating an environmental issue. The globes were unveiled on Earth Day in April at a special assembly where students presented their globes and explained the environment issues they represented. WKYC-TV3 covered the event. They were on display at the Skylight Concourse of Tower City through Memorial Day. Each class selected and researched an issue such as endangered species, energy conservation, recycling, ocean litter, the importance of trees, and more. The boys then used five-foot balloons, paper Mache, paint, and a variety of materials to create the globes. An information sheet with each globe described the issue in more detail and offered suggestions on what can be done to combat the problem. “Our goal was to increase the boys’ understanding of environmental issues and to teach them the importance of being responsible global citizens,” said Gail Stein, Lower School director. “You have to start with the younger children so that they are aware of the issues and can begin to develop good habits early on.”
Ben Hebert ‘17
Stein said a big piece of this project was educating others on how they can make a difference. “We’ve heard that the students were going home and telling their families to turn off the lights, turn off the faucet, and use more energy efficient continued on next page
“When I heard Mrs. Godt talk about her organization and the needs of the people in Honduras, something inside me just clicked,” said Brandon. “I knew that it was my calling and that I wanted to get involved.”
duran Children Foundation. University School has helped me every step of the way. I would never have been able to go to Honduras or be so involved with the foundation, without the school’s support.”
“I never expected to win a regional scholarship, let alone be considered as a candidate for a national competition,” said Brandon. “I’m just doing what I think is right. While I’m very grateful for the scholarship, I am particularly happy that this will make people more aware of the Hope for Hon-
Kohl’s Department Store, the sponsor of the program, received more than 6,000 nominations for this competition. As a regional winner, Brandon represents the Kohl’s store on Wilson Mills Road in Highland Heights.
University School Journal · AUTuMN 2008 53
Grandparents Day
light bulbs,” she noted. “It was exciting to hear about the impact the project was making beyond the walls of the school.” The University School globe project was inspired by a similar project in Chicago, called “Cool Globe: Hot Ideas for a Cooler Planet.” “Last summer, I saw these amazing globes displayed along the Chicago lakefront that were created by artists from around the country,” said Stein. “I thought this would be a great project for our boys. Our teachers immediately embraced the idea and ran with it. I love the fact that it was an integrated project, incorporating science, art, and research. It created a lot of excitement throughout the division, involving all of our Lower School students, ages 5 through 11.”
Ilon Goldberg ’19 and his grandmother Sheilagh Roth
Frank ’16 and Tommy Sinito ’18 and their grandmother Renee Milano
Ben Hebert ‘17
Charlie Voudouris ‘15 and Evan Lubin ‘15
Henry Thomas ’19 and his grandparents Bob and Catherine Thomas
54 University School Journal · AUTUMN 2008
FROM THE VALLEY TO THE HEIGHTS
US students
Eighth Grade Speaking Contest At University School’s Eighth Grade Speaking Contest, now in its 100th year, six students presented speeches on a topic of interest. The winner was Bardia Rahmani for his speech Torture – Diffusing the Ticking Bomb. Second place went to Nate Peereboom for his speech, Benevolent Capitalism, and third place went to Reid Singer, for America’s Biggest Problem. Bardia Rahmani ‘12
Honorable mentions went to Kyle Kysela, Mac McCann and David Weinberger.
The judges for the Eighth Grade Speaking Contest were Rick Jackson, television host and producer at WVIZ/PBS; Claire Walker, vice-president of business operations for the Council of Smaller Enterprises (COSE); and Andrew Vekstein ’08, winner of the 96th Eighth Grade Speaking Contest in 2004.
Dads and Donuts
David Krantz and sons Drew ‘17 and Tyler ‘17
Paul Cascio and sons Ben ‘13 and Matt ’15
Darrell Austin and son Clark ‘18
Chigurupati Ramana and son Nehal ‘20
perform with wellknown ensemble
A
s members of the Cleveland Orchestra Youth Orchestra, US violinist Nicholas Bi ‘11, and cellist Braden McConnell ‘14, performed in the Orchestra’s spring concert held at Severance Hall. According to Martin Kessler, director of the US Orchestra, “Nicholas is a first-rate violinist and a very gifted musician. He is serving as principal second violin and has great potential to grow in his role with the orchestra during his tenure at US. He distinguished himself in a solo assignment in the Vivaldi Concerto in A minor.” US’s primary school music teacher, Amanda Matthews, has known Braden since preschool where he was her camper in the Music Builders Summer Program at the Cleveland Music School Settlement. At US, he was a member of the Lower School Junior Choir, Recorder Ensemble and Flying Mallets. Braden has played cello since preschool and studies at the Cleveland Institute of Music. He is the youngest member of COYO. Commenting on the concert, Amanda Matthews, said, “It was a fantastic concert, not just because of the high quality playing and the challenging selections of music, but the obvious investment of the students in the music and the ensemble. They are very fortunate to have sectional rehearsals with members of the Cleveland Orchestra, and their conductor has such a joyful relationship with them. It was intense, energetic music making at a very high level. Severance Hall was just about filled. I clapped until my arms hurt!”
University School Journal · AUTuMN 2008 55
Lower School Community Service Projects
The class of 2020 planted seedlings for the community service garden on the campus.
The class of 2019 made blankets for Providence House, Ohio’s first licensed crisis nursery, offering emergency shelter to children newborn through five years old actively living in crisis.
The class of 2017 made Hero Packs for “Operation Military Kids” which provides a backpack full of goodies to Ohio children when their parents are deployed overseas with the United States Army.
Charlie Deering ’19, Conrad Hiltebrant ‘19
Drew Krantz ‘17
Benjamin Clegg ‘20 and Eric Areklett ‘20
The class of 2015 worked at St. Augustine’s soup kitchen.
William Thomas ‘20, Kyle Pekarek ’20, William Willoughby ‘20
The class of 2016 worked with younger children from Head Start. Matt Cascio ‘15 Simon Vadas /15
Charlie Newell ‘16 Max Wasserman ‘16
56 University School Journal · AUTUMN 2008
Jack Selman ‘12 John Cai ‘15 Charles Bates ‘15
FROM THE VALLEY TO THE HEIGHTS
Middle School Science Fair
winners
Ten middle school students who were enrolled in the school’s Uber (super) science elective earned distinctions at the 55th Annual Northeast Ohio Science and Engineering Fair held last spring at Cleveland State University. The competition drew more than 600 students in grades seven through 12 from 90 schools.
Albert Wang ‘12, Zach Walton ‘12, David Weinberger ‘12, Bardia Rahmani ‘12, Lloyd Anderson ’12, Nate Peereboom ‘12 , Prasan Srinivasan ‘12, and Lyle Anderson ‘12, Chris Higley ‘12 and David Andersen ‘12 Under the direction of Dr. Robert Marquard,
eighth grade science teacher, the students earned the following distinctions:
“crossing barriers” during week-long field study
U
niversity School students engaged in a week-long field study in the spring entitled Crossing Barriers: Stories from the City. The students were divided into three groups to gather oral histories from residents of three Cleveland neighborhoods -- Cudell/Edgewater, Fairfax, and areas near Cleveland’s Cultural Gardens. The students interviewed many individuals to gather their stories and to create a CD or downloadable radio show about the neighborhood they studied.
David Andersen ‘12 - Second Place in Chemistry Lyle Anderson ’12 - Honorable Mention for Chemistry Lloyd Anderson ‘12 and Prasan Srinivasan ‘12 - Third Place in Biology Chris Higley ’12 - Third Place in Physics Nathan Peereboom ’12 - Third Place in Health and Medicine Bardia Rahmani ’12 - Second Place in Engineering Zach Walton ’12 - First Place in Biology Albert Wang ’12 - Second Place in Health and Medicine David Weinberger ’12 - Second Place in Biology “While all the students did very well during the competition, two boys should be commended for their fine work,” said Dr. Marquard. “Zach Walton finished first among all students in his level in biology, and received a special award from the Kirlandia Society of the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. He was also nominated to continue on with his project at the national level.” In addition to his second place award, Bardia Rahmani received three special awards from The Fenn College of Engineering of Cleveland State University, the United States Naval/Marine Corps., and the Society for Applied Spectroscopy -Cleveland Section.
Ansews from page 13: 1-11: Dick Hauserman; 12: Dick’s first wife, Blanche Hauserman.
Cudell resident Dick Yorko, Carlin Ray ‘13, Eddie Gable ‘13, Matthew Landini ‘13
The boys were well prepared for the experience. Prior to the field study, they learned interviewing techniques and the use of media and software to maintain an archive of the visits. Mark Tebeau, associate professor of History at Cleveland State University, also spoke to the boys about oral history projects.
University School Journal · AUTuMN 2008 57
“The field study was a great success,” said Bill Johnson, seventh grade social studies teacher. “Our goal was to offer boys an experience where they worked side by side with their teachers to explore a complex organism:
the city. Despite their sometimes-beleaguered appearance, cities remain the bright containers for some of mankind’s best creations of art, commerce, sport and community. We believe to understand the story of one
particular Cleveland neighborhood is to have a microcosm for understanding much of the complexity and possibility inherent in urban life.”
Cudell resident Stella and Connor Adams ‘13 Cudell resident Elinor Schambach, with Patrick O’Shea ‘13, speaking to a panel of US boys.
Ryan Thaler ‘13, Andy Brodell ‘13, Ben Biggar ‘13 and Cudell resident Paet Bircham
Ben Biggar ‘13, Eddie Gable ‘13 and Ben Cascio ‘13
58 University School Journal · AUTUMN 2008
FROM THE VALLEY TO THE HEIGHTS
Sherman Prize Speaking Contest Matthew Rothfusz ‘09 was the winner of the 104th Sherman Prize Speaking Contest at the Upper School for his speech, America’s Fresh Water Crisis. The second-place prize was awarded to Geoffrey Sedor ’09 for his speech, Drawing on Faith, and Thomas Boyd ’09 received third place for his speech, The Challenge of Living. Students who received honorable mentions were Matthew Dean ‘09 for his speech entitled The Irrational Fear of Socialism; Sean O’Brien, ‘09 for Play: More than Just Fun and Games; and Vinay Prasad ‘09 for Consumerism and the Good Life. The speeches were judged on the basis of originality, clarity, organization, and quality of delivery. The
judging panel included: John Farber, Headmaster of Old Trail School; Perry White, Executive Director of Citizens’ Academy; and Monique DeVane, Associate Head, Hawken School. The contest is offered in the second semester of the junior year. All eleventh graders are required to write a speech on a topic of their choice. The speeches are presented in class and graded. Students can then compete in the Sherman Prize. At the preliminary round, contestants deliver their speeches before a panel of three judges drawn from the University School faculty. The six finalists, who are chosen from this group, have one week to prepare for the final competition.
Matthew Rothfusz
Mrs. Henry Sherman established The Sherman Prize Speaking Contest in 1904 in memory of her son, George Benedict Sherman, a member of the class of 1903. The name of the winner of the Sherman Prize is engraved on a plaque, along with the names of past winners, and displayed outside the school’s auditorium.
Foreign policy scholar addresses America’s domination in world politics. Hegemony and U.S. Foreign Policy in the 21st Century was the title of a speech recently delivered by Dr. Peter Howard, an assistant professor in the School of International Service at American University, at US’s seventh annual George E. Spencer III Lecture Series. The lecture series honors George “Twig” Spencer III, the only known University School alumnus to perish in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. Mr. Spencer’s family, classmates, and friends established the series to pay tribute to him and to enhance awareness and knowledge of international relations, tolerance and understanding. Addressing the Upper School Dr. Howard said that the United States occupies a position unparalleled in world history, sitting on top of a global political, economic, and cultural order. He discussed how the U.S. sets the rules of the international system, describing this condition as “hegemony,” where one actor—the hegemon--is much more powerful than any other.
“Legitimacy and respect hold this world order together, he said, “but the U.S. has recently compromised its position by pursuing short-term gains at the expense of a long-term legitimacy. It will be up to the next administration to restore that legitimacy.” Commenting on Dr.Howard’s speech, US senior, Matt Dean, said, “The way in which he was able to explain the United States’s foreign relations in a sophisticated manner in such a brief time was astounding. Learning about the power the U.S. truly holds over the world and how this balance of power is so delicate, made me realize that the world functions on many levels.” Dr. Howard is the Academic Director of Pre-College Programs for the School of International Service at American University. He regularly teaches Introduction to World Politics, Analysis of U.S. Foreign Policy, and serves as the faculty coordinator for Introduction to International Relations Research. He teaches graduate-level National Security Policy and Introduction to International Relations Theory.
University School Journal · AUTuMN 2008 59
Upper School Students are Winners in the National Titan Competition
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wo teams of students from University School finished first and second in the Cleveland area competition which then qualified them for Junior Achievement’s 16th annual National Titan Competition this past spring. Competing against 48 teams from around the country, the US students placed in the top eight in the preliminary rounds, qualifying them for the finals of the Titan National Competition. Out of more than 500 teams that participated in Titan competitions nationwide, the US team of Charlie Goss ‘08, Will Biggar ‘09, J. Michael Mentrek ‘09, and Dan DiLauro ‘09 finished fourth. The team of Nate Lowenthal ‘09, Zach Silverstein ’09 and Jiazhou Yang ’09 came in sixth. The students in US teacher Greg Malkin’s financial modeling class use the online business simulation from Junior Achievement called Titan to focus on three major areas of business – strategy, management accounting, and marketing. Each spring, Junior Achievement holds regional and national competitions for area high schools, which use Titan in their business classes.
Honors Day Awards At the end of the school year, awards were presented to Upper School boys during the Honors Day assembly. Seniors who received awards that day are listed in the Commencement section.
Ben Bold ‘09– Middlebury Book Award given to a junior who, by virtue of his character, seeks excellence in all his endeavors and who exemplifies a principled and selfless commitment to environmental awareness for the greater good of the world John Chen ‘09– Williams Book Award given to a top student who has demonstrated intellectual leadership and has made a significant contribution to the extracurricular life of the school Thomas W. Gross ‘09– Washington & Lee University Book Award recognizing a high school junior who best exhibits qualities of academic excellence, significant campus involvement, honor, and personal integrity Toby R. Manders ’08– Bausch & Lomb Science Award presented to the junior who consistently maintains the highest achievement in general physics
US students celebrate their win at the Cleveland-area competition. Zach Silverstein ‘09, Josh Ludwig ’10, Jiazhou Yang ’09, Alex KrugerDobrota ’08, Nate Lowenthal ’09, Shawn Floyd ’08, Charlie Goss ’08, Max Warren ’08, Brett Cieri ’08, Will Biggar ’09, J Mentrek ’09, Dan DiLauro ‘09
60 University School Journal · AUTUMN 2008
Vinay Prasad ‘09– Rensselaer Medal, awarded to a junior who combines excellence in math and science; Bausch & Lomb Science Award recognizing a junior who consistently maintains the highest achievement in general physics; Dempsey Prize in American History
FROM THE VALLEY TO THE HEIGHTS
Students honored by National Merit Competition
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wenty six University School seniors were recognized as semifinalists, commended scholars, or outstanding participants in the 2008 National Merit Scholarship Program competition.
a cash prize and book recognizing the top American History student; Yale Book Award recognizing a junior of proven academic accomplishment whose intellectual aspirations are consistent with those of Yale Matthew Rothfusz ‘09– Kenyon Book Award, given to the junior whose passion for scholarship and dedication to learning reflect those of Kenyon College; and the Henry Stoddard Sherman, Jr. ’25 Award given to the student who has made outstanding contributions to the US News. Thomas Vandermeulen ‘09– Princeton College Book Award conferred upon that member of the junior class who has a “broad intellectual curiosity that embraces openmindedness coupled with critical thinking and who shares Princeton’s core principles of responsibility, integrity and courage” Chris Rothfusz ‘11– Malcolm H. Scovil Memorial Award, presented to the member of the freshman class who, in the opinion of his classmates, has distinguished himself in a variety of areas of school life and, in the process, has demonstrated unusual strength of character and capacity for leadership
Fourteen students were named semifinalists placing them among those earning the highest scores on the Preliminary SAT (PSAT) test. They were Jonathan Danzig, Charles Goss, Jared Jones, Toby Manders, David Martin, Matthew Pokorny, Timothy Scanlon, James Schmitt, Nakul Singh, McConnell Smith, Sam Star, Andrew Vekstein, Justin Wedell and Edmond Zaia, Nine students were named commended scholars: Michael Chilcote, Benjamin Finnell, Matthew Gherlein, James Kasten, Michael Perloff, John Ryder, Steven Shin, Andrew Swank, and Reid Tymcio. Juan J. Fernandez received a Letter of Commendation. Two students, Julian Marshall, and Alexander White, were named outstanding participants in the 2008 Achievement Scholarship Competition, which recognizes top African American students.
Trustee Frank Floyd ’72 presents the United States flag and a plaque to Director of Plant Services Gary Warchock. The flag and plaque are in the Upper School lower commons. The plaque reads, “This flag was flown over the U.S. capital on April 25, 2007 at the request of Senator George Voinovich for the young men at University School.”
University School Journal · AUTuMN 2008 61
Terry Harmon Receives Honor for Exceptional Faculty Leadership
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erry Harmon was named as the first chair holder of the W. Hayden Thompson ‘45 Chair for Exceptional Faculty Leadership. Mr. Harmon’s career at US began in 1970; he currently teaches natural history and natural resources. The chair will be awarded every two years to an outstanding member of the faculty who demonstrates leadership qualities above and beyond his or her daily duties. The recipient receives a financial stipend to be used for professional development. The brief tenure of
the chair is unusual, but the intent is to allow the school to bestow this honor on teachers on a regular basis. According to Headmaster Stephen Murray, “Terry Harmon has a deep and abiding curiosity. Nothing escapes his attention, and he is interested in nearly every observable phenomenon in the world about him.” The Thompson Chair honors an alumnus of unparalleled loyalty and generosity. Hayden Thompson was one of University School’s truly outstanding alumni. Over the course of 25 years, he pro-
vided the school with thoughtful, effective and passionate leadership as well as generous contributions of time, energy and resources. He embodied the qualities that University School strives to instill in its students, and he lived by University School’s motto of Responsibility, Loyalty, Consideration. No one who knew Hayden Thompson could help but be affected by his genuine and honest nature, and because of the tireless example of service he set, he inspired countless others to step in and do their part.
Terry Harmon’s citation reads as follows: You speak for the trees and the trout; you marvel at the industry of the beaver; you love the land. You have an unquenchable thirst for knowledge, and you delight in the intricate and endlessly fascinating balance of the elements of nature. Your work with students spans the entire school: building birch bark canoes with third graders, teaching the natural history of glaciation to 6th graders, and leading field research projects with our seniors. Headmaster Steve Murray, Terry Harmon, Upper School Director Michael Obel-Omia
Your legendary commitment has produced generations of studentswho understand that it is our collective responsibility to be careful stewards of the environment. Above all, you live your passion every day, and in this way you set an example for students and colleagues alike. For this leadership, the Hayden Thompson Chair is presented with the good wishes and respect of University School to Terrence J. Harmon.
62 University School Journal · AUTUMN 2008
FROM THE VALLEY TO THE HEIGHTS
Jazz and Hammers Go Hand-in-Hand
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tudents in University School’s 1:00 Jazz Ensemble, directed by David Kay, traveled to New Orleans last month to perform at Preservation Hall and on the Mississippi steamboat Natchez. The students also worked an extensive shift at a building site for Habitat for Humanity, in Covington, Louisiana, as part of a project to help those whose homes were damaged from the impact of Hurricane Katrina. On the spur of the moment, the ensemble played several songs for all the workers at the Habitat site during lunch. Aakash Mehandru, the ensemble's drummer, turned a wheelbarrow upside down to create a makeshift drum set. New Orleans’s daily newspaper, The Times –Picayune, covered the story, which was written by columnist Karen Baker and published on March 19, 2008. The ensemble’s performance at Preservation Hall came about through a University School connection. Preservation Hall’s musical director, Ben Jaffe, is a former student of Mr. Kay’s at the Interlochen Arts Camp where Mr. Kay has been on the jazz faculty for 21 years.
The US 1:00 Jazz Ensemble performed on the Steamboat Natchez as it traveled down the Mississippi River. The US 1:00 Jazz Ensemble members worked an extensive shift at a building site for Habitat for Humanity in Covington, Louisiana, as part of a project to help those whose homes were damaged by Hurricane Katrina
The US 1:00 Jazz Ensemble members stop their work for a group photo on the porch of the Habitat for Humanity house. (front) Vinay Prasad ‘09, Rahul Singh ‘11, Aakash Mehandru ‘09, Andrew Haines ‘08, Don Daley ‘08, Sam Shunk ‘08, Director David Kay (back) Jonathan Danzig ‘08, Matt Kwon ‘09, Nick Smedira ‘10, Sam Vanni ‘09, Uchenna Okocha ‘09, Upper School art teacher Chris Davis, Matt Dean ‘09, Joe Mekhail ‘09, Geoff Sedor ‘09
University School Journal · AUTuMN 2008 63
Middle School students perform in the Spring Musical Oklahoma. Boys in grades 4-8 and middle school girls from area schools presented the musical, Oklahoma! in March. “We had a terrific rehearsal process working on character development, singing, movement and dance, discussing the early 1900s, the time period in which Oklahoma! is set, as well as the significance of this play in theater history,” said Drama Director Sarah Lyon.
Boys in grades 4-6 pose for a picture during Oklahoma
Reid Tymcio, Sam Stulberg, Brett Fromson (front) Brandon Jackson (back)
The cast of Oklahoma
The farmers
64 University School Journal · AUTUMN 2008
FROM THE VALLEY TO THE HEIGHTS
Black Patent Leather Really Radiates at Upper School Liz Jones and Sam Stulberg (front) Sarah Lebovitz, Erik Sords, Brett Fromson, Gabrielle Haigh and Reid Tymcio
Chris McCarrell, Brandon Jackson, Reid Tymcio, Sam Stulberg
F
rom a matinee on Wednesday through a spectacular performance on Saturday night, the Upper School’s spring production of Do Black Patent Leather Shoes Really Reflect Up? was a tremendous evening of musical theatre at the Hunting Valley campus. Directed by US’s drama director, Carol Pribble, the musical is the story of Eddie Ryan who returns to his old neighborhood on the south side of Chicago and reminisces about his days growing up in Catholic schools during the 1950s. The show featured more than 18 musical numbers conducted by Martin Kessler. Steve Masley was the technical director, and Mike Costello was the scenic artist.
Erik Sords and the 2nd grade class
The company
University School Journal · AUTuMN 2008 65
Tower Dinner
culty
n ’73, retired fa air Scott Emerso 2007-08 Tower Ch Junod, Jr., Fred Stueber ‘71 ll member Henri Pe
John Sedor, Geri Presti (Geoff ’09), Annual Fund Parent Chair Rich and Betsy Stovsky (Brian ’09)
Rod Thompson ’69, Alumni Council President Jim Bell ’73, Trustee David Fulton ’74, Business Manager David Wright Kathy Classen (Michael ’12), Sally Terrell, Brent Classen (Michael ’12), Katie Judson (Conner ’12)
Vinay Prasad ’09, seated; Jiazhou Yang ’09, Don Daley ‘08
David and Dean of Students Margaret Mason, French teacher Roger Yedid, math teacher Greg Malkin, history and English teacher Peter Paik
66 University School Journal · AUTUMN 2008
Fred Floyd ’72 (Charlie ’10), Trustee Jim Griswold ’64, Life Trustee Tom Quintrell ‘38
Sue Bagley, Don Molten, Sr., Kay Ingersoll, Don Bagley ’58, Kim and Frank Kanzinger
Retired physics teacher Mark Carle, Suzanne Drake, Ann and Todd Gardiner ‘83
Peggy and Andy Kundtz ’51, Bobbie and Buck Carr ‘46
Jim Bell, Jr. ’46, Jim Naylor ’72, Life Trustee Bill Osborne ‘46 Lee ’60 and Tuni Chilcote and Brad Morse ‘61
Nancy and Bill Carpenter ’47, Merrie and Board Chair Rob McCreary ‘69
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September gathering marks first 1990s Re-engagement Committee event The 1990s Re-engagement Committee was established in February 2008, to reconnect 1990s US alumni with each other and with the school. The 16 founding committee members are: Pat Surdy ‘90 Ed Welsh ‘91 Doug Freer ‘92 Rich Gent ‘92 Jeff Hulett ‘93 Alec McClennan ‘93 Brock Milstein ‘94 Dan Petrov ‘94 Wes Koontz ‘95 Doug Pease ‘95 Scott Pollock ‘95 Brian Edelstein ‘96 Craig Macklin ‘96 Andy Jalwan ‘97 Tim Gascoigne ‘98 Michael Weiner ‘99 Tell us where you’re living, who you’re in touch with and what you’re up to now. Send e-mail to us1990s@ gmail.com. Also, check out the University School 1990s Re-engagement Committee on Facebook.
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Class Notes 44
Don’t forget to save the dates May 14-16, 2009 for your 65th Reunion Weekend celebration at US. Festivities begin Thursday, May 14 with the Alumni Man of the Year Dinner and continue through Saturday night. Check out the Alumni Calendar at www.us.edu or call the Alumni Office at 216-831-2210 for more details about 2009 US Reunion Weekend events. TED LUNTZ writes, “I have been very active with Baldwin Wallace College as a Board of Trustees’ member. Idarose and I set up a scholarship and a B.W. Music Theater Conservatory Fund. We are enjoying the success of the students in this field. Last year I was honored with a degree of Doctor of Humane letters. I was very proud and happy to accept this honor.”
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Don’t forget to save the dates May 14-16, 2009 for your 60th Reunion Weekend celebration at US. Festivities begin Thursday, May 14 with the Alumni Man of the Year Dinner and continue through Saturday night. Check out the Alumni Calendar at www.us.edu or call the Alumni Office at 216-831-2210 for more details about 2009 US Reunion Weekend events.
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Congratulations to BRUCE AKERS, mayor of Pepper Pike, for being chosen Municipal Leader of the Year. A former head of the Cuyahoga County Mayors’
and City Managers’ Association, Bruce’s leadership extends beyond Pepper Pike to regional and political matters.
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Don’t forget to save the dates May 14-16, 2009 for your 55th Reunion Weekend celebration at US. Festivities begin Thursday, May 14 with the Alumni Man of the Year Dinner and continue through Saturday night. Check out the Alumni Calendar at www.us.edu or call the Alumni Office at 216-831-2210 for more details about 2009 US Reunion Weekend events.
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BROCK CARTER writes, “I survived lung cancer surgery in March ’07 after moving to our new home in Bluffton, SC. I’m doing well and playing on our two beautiful golf courses and still doing some kayaking and acting. Would love to hear from classmates at 843-815-6388 or visit us at 51 Manchester Ct., Bluffton, SC 29910, just off of Hilton Head. The Golden Age Center of Greater Cleveland awarded JON OUTCALT The Golden Achievement Award 2008 for his life-long accomplishments in business and “for recognizing wisdom; for providing opportunities; for respecting experience; for being family to many.”
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JAMES McCONNELL reports, “Recently moved to North
Metro Atlanta (5545 Bridle Glen Drive, Sugar Hill, GA 30518 678 - 765-2090) after sailing and living in Europe, the Caribbean and 12 years in Antigua, Guatemala, and Central America. Though I did not graduate from US (I graduated from The Hill School), I lived about 50 yards from the old campus until 1962 when I married and moved to Boston for law school. Then it was on to Naples, Florida where I practiced until 1979 when I sailed to Europe, returning to Southwest Florida, for brief periods to practice and take care of family matters.”
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Don’t forget to save the dates May 14-16, 2009 for your 50th Reunion Weekend celebration at US. Festivities begin Thursday, May 14 with the Alumni Man of the Year Dinner and continue through Saturday night. Check out the Alumni Calendar at www.us.edu or call the Alumni Office at 216-831-2210 for more details about 2009 US Reunion Weekend events. GARY ARSHAM writes, “I have accepted a part time position at California Pacific Medical Center and its Research Institute as chair of their Institutional Review Board. We do mostly biomedical research but also some behavioral and educational. Also, I was just awarded a “Freddie,” the Oscars of health and medical media, mostly for my long
service as “Dean” of the Academy of Judges. Most of the awards are actually for the best achievement in 31 categories, such as prevention, children’s health, behavioral diseases, allergies & asthma, diabetes, or senior health.”
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In March, VIN FIORDALIS stopped by to see Harry Mills in Charleston, WV. They shared a spirited conversation and news over breakfast. Harry sends his best to all his classmates and is looking forward to the 50th reunion. He’d love to hear from anyone and expects a visit or call from anyone who might be passing through “Wild `n Wonderful WV.”
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Tom Barry ‘62, Michael Barry ‘69 and Tim Horsburgh ‘04 climbed Mount Kilimanjaro in August 2007. The trip was to raise money for the Kucetekela Foundation which helps send Zambian children to school.The foundation was started by Tom Barry’s son Oliver Barry while he was in Zambia doing medical research after he graduated from Princeton in 2005. The entire group of climbers (13 in all) made it to the top after a six-day climb! The US boys carried the US banner all the way to the summit to show their
University School Journal · AUTuMN 2008 69
CLASS NOTES
pride in the maroon and black. The climb was a huge success and managed to raise more than $50,000 for the foundation through sponsorship of the climbers while also bringing together two generations of US families.
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Singing piano player, Bob Allison, is a member of the Boston Association of Cabaret Artists and is the house musician at the Emerson Inn in Rockport, MA. His group, The Lighthouse Trio, recently released a live recording CD, “The Lighthouse Trio Live from Hobo’s Café.”
ho National Laboratory to become the program manager on an assignment that Battelle (HQ - Columbus OH) has for PETRONAS, Malaysia’s national oil company, to plan, design, construct, staff, and operate a renewable energy laboratory in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. This summer, Bendy and I will relocate there for the next few years. When we’re established there, we’ll hope to have US visitors who may pass through KL. More to follow!”
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LEE VAN VORIS moved to the upstate South Carolina area, where he has taken a position as chief of medical staff affairs and physician liaison for EMR physician adoption at Greenville Hospital System.
Don’t forget to save the dates May 14-16, 2009 for your 40th Reunion Weekend celebration at US. Festivities begin Thursday, May 14 with the Alumni Man of the Year Dinner and continue through Saturday night. Check out the Alumni Calendar at www.us.edu or call the Alumni Office at 216-831-2210 for more details about 2009 US Reunion Weekend events.
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74
Don’t forget to save the dates May 14-16, 2009 for your 45th Reunion Weekend celebration at US. Festivities begin Thursday, May 14 with the Alumni Man of the Year Dinner and continue through Saturday night. Check out the Alumni Calendar at www.us.edu or call the Alumni Office at 216-831-2210 for more details about 2009 US Reunion Weekend events.
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WALTER NEWCOMB reports, “I recently took leave from Ida-
Don’t forget to save the dates May 14-16, 2009 for your 35th Reunion Weekend celebration at US. Festivities begin Thursday, May 14 with the Alumni Man of the Year Dinner and continue through Saturday night. Check out the Alumni Calendar at www.us.edu or call the Alumni Office at 216-831-2210 for more details about 2009 US Reunion Weekend events.
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Warren Morris, a partner with Colliers Ostendorf-Morris, was named as president and
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chief executive officer of the organization. Colliers Ostendorf-Morris, founded in 1939, is Northeast Ohio’s largest privately-held, full service commercial real estate firm. In addition to a Northeast Ohio presence, Colliers Ostendorf-Morris is part of the Colliers International global network consisting of 267 offices in 57 countries. Warren is the third generation of the Morris family to take the helm of the company that bears his name. Warren and his wife Betsi reside in Gates Mills, Ohio and have three children, Emily (age 23), Leland (age 20) and Stephen (age 16).
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Jim Kimberly writes, “Hello to all class of ‘77 grads. If you’re ever in the New England area give a shout. I am involved in executive development, coaching and general organizational improvement consulting through my company, Sapphire Consulting (www.consultsapphire. com).”
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BRENDAN O’DONNELL sent us this note, “Hello class of ‘78, Brendo here, out west in Seattle, Washington. I’ve been quite the nomad since leaving US. My sad departure from Shaker Heights in 1976 brought me to Mystic, CT, where I attended a coed school (girls!) for two
years, graduating in a class of 24 students. My classmates were bright, the teaching was good, but there was no comparison between schools. I went to Johns Hopkins in Baltimore for a couple of years, but became disillusioned by everyone’s desire for a 4.0 GPA. I transferred to Connecticut College in New London (more girls!!) and graduated in 1986. Determined to forge my future on my own, I moved west to San Francisco. I screwed off for a couple of years (can you say party?) before I put the big clamp on myself (discipline) and attended graduate school at San Francisco State University. I managed to get into medical school at UC Davis, in Sacramento. Again, I took the long road, returning to San Francisco State to finish a M.A. in molecular biology in the middle of medical school. I became a physician in 1998 and moved to Pittsfield, MA (next door to Albany) for my year of internship. Missing the urban environment, I did a residency in anesthesiology in Philadelphia. Next, I spent a couple of years at the NIH in Washington, DC doing research in the genetics of pain. With one more step of medical training left, I returned to the West Coast to Seattle, where my sister lived. I finished my pain management fellowship and have stayed on as
CLASS NOTES
faculty at the University of Washington. So now, I’m the teacher. (scary thought!) “Amazingly, through all the intervening years, I never developed much skill with women. (I measured dates on an annual basis.) My abilities with women were pretty close to where they’d been in 1976 when I left Cleveland. Fortunately, divine intervention rescued me here in Seattle and I just got married seven months ago. “At US I developed a love of athletics that has never left me. (Thank you, Tom Callow & co.) While I’m no longer the svelte triathlete I was in my 20s, I manage to ride my bike year ‘round and use it as my primary form of transportation. Without a doubt, this has been one of the great gifts from US. Along with a love of music, the capacity to write well, and (of course) loyalty, responsibility, and consideration. “I observe my classmates (and teachers) through the US Journal. What a sensational experience it was. It’s good to see my old friends as successful adults, looking after the young men of the future in the same way we were looked after. “May fortune continue to look after you all as it did in our youth. Please have a good belly laugh at my expense!”
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Don’t forget to save the dates May 14-16, 2009 for your 30th Reunion Weekend celebration at US. Festivities begin Thursday, May 14 with the Alumni Man of the Year Dinner and continue through Saturday night. Check out the Alumni Calendar at www.us.edu or call the Alumni Office at 216-831-2210 for more details about 2009 US Reunion Weekend events.
OR this summer where Kathy will be starting a new job in the fall at Lewis & Clark School of Law.
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Don’t forget to save the dates May 14-16, 2009 for your 25th Reunion Weekend celebration at US. Festivities begin Thursday, May 14 with the Alumni Man of the Year Dinner and continue through Saturday night. Check out the Alumni Calendar at www.us.edu or call the Alumni Office at 216-831-2210 for more details about 2009 US Reunion Weekend events.
ERIC ALLEN and his family have moved to Portland, Oregon where he’s taken a job at Hollywood Entertainment. He’s still getting settled and looking for somewhere to live, learning his way around, etc. MITCHELL LOVEMAN reports, “MARC ZIEGLER, KYLE REYNOLDS and I spent time with JOHN BELL after one of his Widespread Panic concerts in Chicago. I work as a principal at Newmark Knight Frank, a national commercial real estate brokerage firm. Ziegler works at a trading firm, Garwood Securities LLC and Reynolds relocated to Chicago in 2007 and works at Sarah Lee Food and Beverage. I had lunch with RICK KLAUS who lives in suburban Naperville and works for First Group (formerly Laidlaw), a large transportation company.
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JOHN STORHM and his wife, Kathy, will be moving to Portland,
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ADAM BUJOLL and his wife, Kristen, celebrated the birth of twins, William MacDonald and Lillian Margaret, on February 7.
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Paul Gibbs and Dave Paradzik ‘94 will coach the Southern California defending state champion high school boys’ tennis team at Crossroads School for Arts and Sciences in Santa Monica, California, this spring. They will coach the girls’ team at Crossroads next fall.
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DANIEL BURKE welcomed another daughter to his family. She was born in January, 2007. PETAR DANIEL’s company was recently acquired by SAPAG. JASON KOROSEC accepted a GM position at PayPal,
in San Jose, CA, where he will be responsible for a portfolio of payments products. He plans to continue teaching the business and law of payments to graduate students at Case Western University in Cleveland and at Universidad Francisco Marroquín in Guatemala. He and his wife Tana, resettled from NYC to the Bay Area. WILL LAFAVE writes, “We adopted a little girl, Madelynne Bryce LaFave, born on May 14, 2007.” CHRIS LITTMAN’s wife, Brooke, a US art teacher, gave birth to their daughter, Brynn, in February, 2008. MIKE LITZOW, his wife, and his 19-month-old son are sailing from their home in Alaska to Australia in their 37-foot sailboat, Pelagic. They started the trip in June, 2007, and were in Mexico getting ready to cross the Pacific to the Marquesas Islands in March. Mike has a blog about the trip, sailboatpelagic.blogspot.com.
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Don’t forget to save the dates May 14-16, 2009 for your 20th Reunion Weekend celebration at US. Festivities begin Thursday, May 14 with the Alumni Man of the Year Dinner and continue through Saturday night. Check out the Alumni Calendar at www.us.edu or call the Alumni Office at 216-831-2210
University School Journal · AUTuMN 2008 71
CLASS NOTES
1990s alumni embrace Annual Fund challenge grant
for more details about 2009 US Reunion Weekend events.
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BRAD GRANT was promoted to Director of Amateur Scouting for the Cleveland Indians. In his new role, Brad will assume the day-to-day management of the amateur scouting staff and the execution of the June draft.
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DAVID CHIRAYATH reports, “My wife Heidi just got tenure at Bates as a sociology professor and I am happy in my work as a prospect researcher and analyst, so we will likely remain in Maine for a very long time. Anytime anyone is up in this area and would like to grab a cold beverage please look us up.”
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DOUG FREER, his wife, Kelly, and son, Charlie, and lab, Colby, live in Euclid. Charlie turned three last November and will begin preschool in the fall. Doug’s landscape and snow business continues to grow and develop, providing new and exciting challenges each day. GRAHAM FREY reports, “Cristie and I just had our second son -- Sawyer Frey. We’ve had 35 feet of snow in Crested Butte. Great ski year.”
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BRIAN SCHULTZ is a professor in the College of Education at Northeastern Illinois in Chicago. He published a book titled Spectacular Things Happen Along the Way: Lessons from an Urban Classroom. This book is a detailed account of a year he spent teaching at a dilapidated school in the infamous Chicago housing project Cabrini Green.
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Don’t forget to save the dates May 14-16, 2009 for your 15th Reunion Weekend celebration at US. Festivities begin Thursday, May 14 with the Alumni Man of the Year Dinner and continue through Saturday night. Check out the Alumni Calendar at www.us.edu or call the Alumni Office at 216831-2210 for more details about 2009 US Reunion Weekend events. HENRY AALDERS writes, “After living in Idaho from 2003-2006, Niki and I moved to Knoxville, TN where I have started my own Fly-Fishing Guide Service in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. MIKE FIORITTO reports, “My wife, Nicole, and I had our first child, Michael Jr., on March 8. Workouts have already begun to prepare him for future Prepper football and wrestling teams. TJ JOHNSON writes, “I’ve
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Amplify your Annual Fund support this year in a major way. A group of twenty 1990s alumni raised a stand-alone fund this fall to match, dollar for dollar, all new and increased 2008-2009 Annual Fund gifts their classmates commit. The challenge grant opportunity presents 1990s alumni never-before-seen giving opportunities. Early returns show clear Annual Fund participation gains. Don’t miss your chance to amplify your new or increased gift. Contact Director of Annual Giving Sue Slovich at 216-831-1984 x7314 for further details.
recently relocated to Golden, CO with my girlfriend and have continued my professional pursuits in commercial real estate. After two months of interviewing, fly fishing and hiking, I joined the land and development brokerage team at Fuller Real Estate in downtown Denver. Over the summer, I ran into Rob Pizem, whom I hadn’t seen since our graduation. Same old Piz and it was great seeing a familiar face and classmate here in my new home. Best to everyone and their families, and please drop me a line if you’re up for some skiing or a Coors brewery tour.” CHUCK MYERS sent the following quick update from Boston, “Jessica and I have two wonderful little boys, Samuel (2.5 years) and Ben (1 year). I continue to work as a portfolio manager at Fidelity Investments. I have been running Fidelity Small Cap Retirement Fund the last two years and just took on Fidelity Small Cap Value
Fund as well. If any classmates find their way through Boston please stop by! I can always be reached at chuck. myers@fidelity.com.”
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RAMI ABBASS and his wife, Nadeen, are proud new parents of Omar who was born on December 10, 2007. They are thrilled with parenthood! Rami has one more year in his gastroenterology fellowship at Georgetown University Hospital.
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PATRICK LEWIS has joined the Cleveland office of Baker & Hostetler LLP as an associate in the firm’s Complex Business Litigation Group. JUSTIN ROSENBERG writes, “After graduating from the Northwestern University School of Law in May 2007, my wife (Jessica) and I moved back to New York City. I am an associate in the corporate practice group at Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen and Katz.”
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TJ HELLMUTH married Lily Skove from Cleveland Heights in 2007. Lily is an OSU student and TJ works freelance with various film production companies as a camera man, gaffer, or grip. He also edits film for the Cleveland Art Museum’s Parade the Circle which he has filmed for a number of years. TJ is about to leave for a gaffer job on a feature film being filmed in NH in May. Then he and Lily will be traveling to Latvia where TJ will be lighting designer and videographer for Lily’s NY dance company, Stoveworks. On the way home they hope to take a bike trip through Scotland.
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Don’t forget to save the dates May 14-16, 2009 for your 10th Reunion Weekend celebration at US. Festivities begin Thursday, May 14 with the Alumni Man of the Year Dinner and continue through Saturday night. Check out the Alumni Calendar at www.us.edu or call the Alumni Office at 216-831-2210 for more details about 2009 US Reunion Weekend events.
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AARON FRANKLIN has relocated to Seattle with Microsoft as a business analyst. His 2008 ThinkWeek paper was read and commented on by Bill Gates. BRAD WALSH is now based in New York writing
Dan Bailin ’01 married Julia Payne on July 5, 2008 in Brooksville, Maine. Pictured are US alumni who were in attendance: Jeremy Galen ‘01, Will Fulton ‘01, Matt Christ ‘01, Mitch Stein ‘01, Mitch Bailin ‘88, Dan Bailin ‘01, Jamie Galen ‘01, Paul Bailin ‘87, Mike Bailin ‘05, Andy Iarussi ‘01
and creating music for TV shows and producing music for other artists including Ashlee Simpson. He also records as an independent solo artist. Edward Olszewski graduated in May from The Ohio State University - Moritz College of Law and is now an assistant attorney general in the Antitrust Division of the Ohio attorney general’s office in Columbus.
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Don’t forget to save the dates May 14-16, 2009 for your 5th Reunion Weekend celebration at US. Festivities begin Thursday, May 14 with the Alumni Man of the Year Dinner and continue through Saturday night. Check out the Alumni Calendar at www.us.edu or call the Alumni Office at 216-831-2210 for more details about 2009 US Reunion Weekend events. ANDREW BENNETT wanted to give back to his alma mater, Elon University, so he made a generous gift in support of Safe Rides. His gift will enable the program
to expand with the addition of a new van.
MARC HOWLAND was nominated by Brown University as one of four possible NICK BOEHM was named Brown representatives for the MVP for the 2007 Amherst NCAA National Student-Athfootball team. Playing inside lete Leadership Development linebacker and the defensive Conference, and was then signal caller, Nick led the selected by the NCAA as team in tackles, was third in Brown’s representative. The the NESCAC football confer- conference was in Orlando, ence in tackles, and earned FL in late May. All-Academic in football for the second year. JON SEDOR received the MetroHealth Spirit Award in JEFF HEISLER graduated June. The award is presented from the University of Dayto an individual whose perseton in May. verance serves as an inspiration to others. In May 2007, TRAVIS ERDduring the last full month of MAN, a freshman his senior year at University at Princeton, competed in School, Jon was involved in a the 174 division on the wres- fireworks accident that tling team. He finished the destroyed his dominant hand. season with a 13-13 record, An artist, skater, snowboardstarting every match for the er, and rock climber, he team. At one point in the sea- worked hard to recover, son he had seven straight relearning to draw and paint wins. He was Athlete of the with his non-dominant hand. Week, received All-Ivy Hon- Jon is pursuing a bachelor’s orable Mention and was the degree in studio art at SkidHooker Trophy recipient, more College in Saratoga given to the wrestler showSprings, NY. • ing most improvement during the season.
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In Remembrance Robert R. Cull ’29 died at concerts for blind members of the age of 95 on Nov. 22, 2007. the Music Appreciation Class at the Cleveland Sight Center. Bob received a bachelor’s Bob traveled several degree in physics from the times to the Arctic to take Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1934. He began photographs of wildflowers, which are on file in the botanhis career working for Eastical department of the Uniman Kodak in Rochester, versity of West Virginia. He New York. Cull was touring collected more than 100 Europe with his family in orchids, which he kept in his 1939 when the war in Europe greenhouse. An outdoorsman, began. When he returned home, he went to work for his Bob climbed Mount Rainier at age 17 and went skiing and family’s business, Cleveland scuba diving until he was 80. Chain Company. Bob, the For many years, he sailed holder of two patents, was with the Thistle Fleet at the founder and president of two Cleveland Yachting Club. automotive supply compaBob is survived by his nies: Sterling Manufacturing of Cleveland and Tenatronics wife, Gay; stepchildren, George Cull, Stephen Ban, Ltd. of Newmarket, Ontario. and Elizabeth Ban; 12 stepHe retired at age 92. Bob served as the Garden grandchildren; and many step-great-grandchildren. Center of Cleveland’s president, Musical Arts AssociaArthur S. Holden, Jr. tion trustee and Holden ’31 died Feb. 7, 2008 at his Arboretum corporate board member. He also was treasur- Waite Hill home at age 94. Art, a direct descendent of er of the Art Society of the Liberty E. Holden, founder of Cleveland Museum of NatuThe Plain Dealer, was born in ral History. Bob was a trustee Pittsburgh but grew up in of the English Speaking Cleveland Heights. He earned Union and a member of the an Eagle Scout badge in 1927, Sigma Xi Scientific Research and, after graduating from US, Society. He also belonged to received a bachelor’s degree Bluecoats, which helps the widows and children of police from Case School of Applied Science in 1935. and firefighters who were Art leveraged not only his killed in the line of duty. family name and wealth, but From 1976 to 2003, he served also his corporate standing as as a trustee of the Musical vice president of Coe ManuArts Association, which runs facturing Co. in Painesville, to the Cleveland Orchestra. After his first wife, Alice, died give back both time and money to Lake County and in 1980, Bob endowed box Northeast Ohio. He was chief seats for the Cleveland executive officer of the MarOrchestra’s Friday matinee 74 University School Journal · AUTUMN 2008
tha Holden Jennings Foundation, which supports elementary and secondary education in Northeast Ohio schools. The foundation was created by his aunt in 1959, but Holden maintained its vibrant place in the community. Art’s enduring legacy in Lake County is linked to his founding of and lifelong support for Lakeland Community College in Kirtland. He served on the Lakeland board from 1965 to 1975 and was chairman in 1967-68. Art led the drive to raise $1.5 million for the construction of the college’s first permanent campus. He also supported Lake Erie College in Painesville and the engineering school at Case Western Reserve University. Art’s first wife, Claire, died in 1988. His wife of the past 17 years, Arlene survives him, as well as daughters Constance Holden Somers and Sarah Holden McLaren; a stepdaughter, Gayle Monroe Kuoni; grandchildren; and great-grandchildren. A. Lawrie Fabens ‘35 died in Cleveland Heights on March 22, 2008. Lawrie was a graduate of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard Business School. He served in World War II as an Army ordnance officer and worked with various U.S. manufacturers. Following the war, Lawrie held jobs in industry using his mechanical engineering background. He founded Truline Bearing
Company where he pioneered the use of computers for the complex calculations in the production of the hollow bar used in the manufacturing of sleeve bearings. Lawrie was the beloved husband of the late Rachel (Wiegman) and the late Alicia (Hail). He is survived by sons Andrew L. III ‘60, William J. H. ’61, Douglas B.’63; daughter Mary Elisabeth “Lissa” Solas; grandchildren Andrew L. IV, Jennie F. Kaffen, Curtis ‘01, Philip Fabens-Jones ‘07, Heather S. LaPrade, George Solas Jr., Christopher D. Solas, Lindsay E. Solas; eight great-grandchildren; and brother H. Bruce ’41. Lawrie was preceded in death by son John Inghram Fabens, granddaughter Ali Solas, and sister Margaret F. Kinney. Douglas Wick ’35 died Jan. 4, 2008 in his Gates Mills home at the age of 90. Doug attended University School and then graduated from The Evans School in Tucson, AZ. He received an economics degree from Yale University’s Sheffield Scientific School in 1939. He graduated from the Western Reserve University Law School in 1946, after serving four years during World War II as a lieutenant commander in the Naval Reserve. Doug joined the law firm of McAfee Hanning Hazlett Newcomer & Wheeler in Cleveland when he graduated
CLASS NOTES
from law school and later became a partner. The firm merged with Squire Sanders & Dempsey. After he retired from the law firm in 1971, he bought a Pontiac dealership in Willoughby and renamed it Wick Pontiac. He was also chairman of the board of Krihwan Pontiac/GMC Trucks. Doug served on the boards of various other auto-related private corporations and had been chairman of the Cleveland Auto Show. A civic leader concerned with conservation, Doug teamed with then Ohio Senator Howard Metzenbaum in 1964 to successfully block the proposed building of a freeway through the Shaker Lakes area. Doug also served as a Gates Mills councilman for 13 years. He was past president of the Gates Mills Historical Society and one of the founders of the Improvement Society. He was named Gates Mills Citizen of the Year for 1994. In 1977, while serving as president of the Cleveland Society for the Blind, Doug received an award from first lady Rosalynn Carter for the Society’s Mobility Training Park which, at the time, was the first of its kind in the country. Doug was a member of the Rotary Club of Willoughby, the Cleveland Automobile Dealers’ Association, the Kirtland Country Club, the Union Club, the Tavern Club and the Chagrin Valley Hunt
Club. He was also a member of the local, state and national bar associations. Doug’s wife of 51 years, the former Allayne Ernst, died in 1993. He is survived by daughters, Mary Bole and Adele; seven grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and a brother, James. Siblings Henry ’30, Robert, Virginia, David ’39, and William are deceased. Shailer Handyside ’36 died in Longwood, FL at the age of 89. Shailer was a graduate of Amherst College, served his country during W.W. II, and spent 39 years as an auditor for General Electric. An accomplished trumpet player, Shailer once played a solo with the Cleveland Symphony and also played in a jazz band while in college. Shailer held the distinction of being the oldest member of the Alpha-1 Foundation Research Registry. The foundation is dedicated to providing the leadership and resources that will result in increased research, improved health, worldwide detection, and a cure for Alpha-1, a disease affecting the lungs and liver. The Research Registry Update, the newsletter of the Registry based at the Medical University of South Carolina, carried a feature story on Shailer in its fall 2006 issue. In the article, he suggested the simple message he could offer to other Alphas was “have a positive outlook and stay active.”
Even well into his 80s, Shailer regularly walked for exercise and delivered the newsletter to apartment complexes in The Villages, a Florida retirement community. Near the very end of his life he was slowed by vision problems, arthritic degeneration of the spine (from a wrestling injury dating back to his US days) and increasing shortness of breath. He is survived by his wife Katherine, to whom he had been married for 64 years, and two sons.
Skelly); father of Christopher, Robert. and Patricia; loving grandfather of Ryan and Kevin; brother of John ‘41, Tim ‘42 , Richard ‘43, William ‘45, Gerald ‘49, Thomas, Terrence, Neil and Margaret Conway and the late Mary Conley, Daniel ‘36 and James ’47.
I REMEMBER BOB by Bud Conway ’43 I do remember Bob. My brother was a special person, someone to look up to. He was the Irish twin of my oldest brother, Dan, who was Albert Waldron ‘36 killed at age 24 during World died on Jan. 3, 2008 in Canan- War II. To me, one was DanBob, and the other Bob-Dan. daigua, NY at the age of 89. Albert was a graduate of Har- At my age as a pre-schooler, and then as a student at Gesu, vard University and served his country as a captain in the St. Ignatius and University School, I thought they were United States Army’s 786th Tank Battalion from 1941-1945. demigods to be viewed with awe and wonder. He worked for Glidden Paint Bob was different from Company for many years and Dan, however. He looked up retired in 1980. Albert was a to his older brother with member of the Canandaigua Rotary Club, and volunteered unmasked affection and respect. Bob received from his for the Gleaner’s Kitchen, the younger siblings, and Dan, VA Medical Center, and the reciprocal respect and affecVeteran’s Club. He is survived by his wife, tion. He had red hair and was a handsome youth, sort of like Wilda; son, William Walthe movie star Van Johnson. dron.; step-children, David West and Michelle West.; six After a successful stint as captain of the University School grandchildren; and three football team, he went to great-grandchildren. He was Europe with Mary, our sister, predeceased by his first wife, and our parents on their 25th Betty Thomas; his son, Richwedding anniversary trip. ard; and his grandson, Scott. Upon his return, he headed to Dartmouth College and then Robert F. Conway ’38 the Marine Corps after gradudied on April 13, 2007 at the ation. He served his country age of 87. He was the beloved throughout the Pacific Camhusband of the late Julie (nee University School Journal · AUTuMN 2008 75
many stories. Chuck is survived by daughter, Kathleen Maresco and dear friend, Mary Jeanne Nelson.
February at the age of 75. Mickey graduated from Centre College in Kentucky in 1955. He also attended Yale and chaired the Yale Ball Committee for many years. He was an army veteran. Written by Edith Thoburn Mickey was a partner at James M. Thoburn ‘45 McDonald and Company. For died on Feb. 29, 2008 in more than 30 years, he gave his Rochester, NY. Jim was a stock market forecast for the World War II Navy veteran year ahead and announced his serving immediately after his graduation from US. He grad- list of favorite stocks at annual uated from Allegheny College meetings of the Northeast Ohio Chapter of the National in 1950 and Northwestern Association of Investment University in 1954 with a Ph. D. in analytical chemistry. Clubs. Mickey coached the Jim’s career included Nikes youth baseball team of employment with Central Scientific Company in Chica- the Shaker Boys League. He served on the boards of the go; Bausch and Lomb in Baseball League, Boys and Rochester, where he was Girls Clubs of Cleveland and director of analytical instruMyers College. ment research; and Kodak, Mickey was the husband also in Rochester, where he of Mary Kay; father of Mindy worked in several areas related to analytical chemistry lab- Covington, Mickey Covington ‘83, Hunter Covington and oratories. After retiring from Millie Covington; brother of Charles H. Longfield, Kodak in 1991, he became a Richard Covington ‘49 and Jr. ’39 died in Chagrin Falls, consultant in quality control George Covington ‘55; and the OH on Sept. 29, 2007. Chuck for Quality Systems Regisgrandfather of nine. graduated from Dartmouth in trars retiring for a second 1943 and served with the time in 2000. Written by Peter Wykoff ‘51 United States Marine Corps Jim’s avocation was flyOn Jan. 4, 2008, Austin’s wife, during W.W. II in Guadalca- ing small airplanes, and he Jennifer, telephoned me to nal, Okinawa and China. He was a ground school instrucinform me Austin P. Frum earned the Distinguished Fly- tor for 20 years. ing Cross and Air Medal ’51 had died that morning of Jim is survived by his while with the 3rd Amphibi- wife of 52 years, Edith; sons, metastatic parotid cancer. He ous Marines. Chuck met his James of Monument, CO and and Jennifer were residents of late wife, Connie, at Pearl Arlington, VA. John of Ashland, VA; daughHarbor where they were both ter, Marjorie Stockbridge of I was Austin’s classmate Marine Corps officers. He in kindergarten at Malvern Ballston Lake, NY; and five retired from Republic Steel as grandchildren. School in Shaker Heights, and a sales manager. Chuck’s famwe continued to be classmates ily and friends have missed McCormick R. “Mickey” at US from 1948-1951 and at his great sense of humor and Amherst College 1951-1955. Covington ’50 died in paign with honor and distinction. He married the beautiful Julie Skelly after returning to the states and joined Fisher Foods as head of public relations. He was a longtime member of the Sodality of Our Lady at Gesu Church, where he and Julie were devoted leaders. He founded the First Friday Club of Cleveland, a leading Catholic lay organization, and was elected its second president. Nevertheless Bob, like most of us, had to struggle through many ups and downs, and he did so valiantly. The Good Lord, in eternity, I am sure has not neglected to reward a thousand-fold my brother Bob and his beloved Julie for their loving devotion to each other, to us, the community, country and family they served so well. I do remember Bob.
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While at US, he was Mabian business manager, a member of the News Board, a member of both Edward Moore and Cadmean societies, a member of the swimming team, and a Cum Laude graduate. While at Amherst College, Austin was a member of the frosh football squad and co-head of the News Bureau, an organization that covered every home athletic contest and sent out releases about Amherst athletes to their home town newspapers. He was a member of Alpha Delta Phi fraternity, majored in English, and graduated cum laude. After graduating from Amherst College, he entered Newport Naval Officers’ Training School and served as an officer aboard an amphibious assault cargo ship from 19551958. He entered Harvard Law School in 1958 and received his degree in 1961. Following his law school graduation, Austin moved to Washington, D.C. and practiced with several firms specializing in real estate development and finance and tax-exempt bond law. He was acting director of the Charter Schools Development Corporation, as well as its in-house counsel, at the time of his death. He also found time to own and manage a number of apartment buildings. In 1996, he was diagnosed with a non-curable cancer and was given eight months to live. His determination to lead an active and meaningful life lengthened that time period to
over 11 years. He continued to attend minor league baseball games, brew beer, compose poetry, canoe in Canada and canals in France, and play squash. Austin also became a runner. He ran marathons in Boston and Frederick, MD, but was particularly pleased with finishing the Paris 2005 marathon. His last race was Thanksgiving Day, six weeks before his death. He and his wife, Jennifer, their children and grandchildren continued annual visits to his family’s camp in Canada to fish, hike, canoe, and swim. Even after Austin lost the use of his left arm in 2004 following a second cancer surgical procedure, he continued to enjoy these activities. When he told me he still played a weekly squash match with his left arm strapped to his side, I asked him how many points his opponent ‘spotted’ him; he merely smiled and replied, “Not enough.” I remember Austin for his intelligence, honesty, integrity, humor, and kindness to others. He was a very good friend and fun to be with. He never complained about his medical misfortune. His memorial service at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Arlington was truly a celebration of his very full life reflecting his love of family, his humor, and his giving nature. The church was completely filled with his friends. He is survived by his wife, Jennifer, five children, four
grandchildren, and three sisters. George J. Dunn ’53 died at University Hospitals in Cleveland on Feb. 17, 2008. George was a graduate of Yale and Harvard Law School. He worked in a private law practice before joining Sohio in 1968 as one of the original members of its in-house legal department. He was named Sohio’s senior vice president and general counsel in 1974. George played a vital role in development of the Alaska pipeline in the 1970s and was instrumental in the merger of Sohio and British Petroleum in 1987. He retired from BP in 1998 after a 30-year career. George was a past trustee of the Cleveland Orchestra, the Cleveland Museum of Contemporary Art, the Cleveland Institute of Music and the Cleveland Institute of Art. He was a supporter of public radio and was a past trustee and president of the board of WCPN FM/90.3. His civic involvement included past posts as trustee for the Council of World Affairs, the Great Lakes Science Center and the Union Club, where he also was a past president. George had a lifelong love of boats. He had owned a variety of sailboats and power boats since the early 1960s. For about 20 years, he moored boats at either the Lakeside Yacht Club or the East 55th Street Marina. He and his
wife, Becky, enjoyed sailing Timothy G. Geier ’65 the Great Lakes. When he died in March 2008 after a retired from BP, George found brief illness. Tim attended the more time to sail and spent University of Denver where more than half of the past 10 he was a member of Kappa years sailing the boat Sirius Sigma. He was an active twice across the Atlantic, member of the Bratenahl along the European coast and community, past council to the Mediterranean, the member, and chairman of the Caribbean, Venezuela and the recreation committee. west coast of Mexico. Tim’s family and friends George is survived by his will miss his infectious laugh, wife of 46 years, Rebecca great smile, big heart and his “Becky”; sons John ’80 and wonderful zest for life. Tim is Gordon ’82 of London, Engsurvived by brothers Philip Jr. land; four granddaughters; ’53, James ‘54, Richard ‘56, and a brother. and Michael ’62. He was the uncle of Hope Smith, Robert David A. Haserot ’62 ‘83, Johanna Howard, Thom died after a brief illness on ’87, Peter Jr., Marissa and PhilDec. 19, 2007. David attended ip II. He was preceded in University School and gradu- death by his brother, Peter. ated from The Kiski School in Saltsburg, Pennsylvania in 1963. He received a degree in Other Deaths political science from Kenyon The Alumni Office has received College where he was a memword of the following deaths. Furber of the Delta Tau Delta fra- ther information would be welcome. ternity. His daughter, Eve writes: Frederick M. Vilmar ‘35 “He enjoyed lighthouses and July 26, 2006 in Kalamazoo, sunsets, ornate Victorian Michigan architecture and the spare architecture of Frank Lloyd Robert G. Spencer ‘50 Wright, classic motorcycles Feb. 24, 2007 in Washington and scooters, woodworking and creative writing.” Harold Anderson ‘60 David is survived by June 25, 2007 in Radnor, brother Henry (Mac) McKinPennsylvania ney Haserot III; former wife Linda Harnett Philips; daughJay Brian White ‘86 ters Eve Nordstrom SemenoJan. 24, 2008 in Cleveland, ro, Cally McKinney Kayal Ohio and Christine Louise Kayal; and five grandchildren.
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