Marianapolis Magazine | 2020-2021

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ARIANAPOLIS

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MAGAZINE 2020-2021

CONTENTS 02 TEACHING THROUGH A PANDEMIC 05 SOCIAL JUSTICE AT MARIANAPOLIS 08 COMMUNITY LEAP DAYS 10 ATHLETICS 14 COLLEGE ATHLETIC SIGNINGS 16 DANCE SHOWS & DRAMA 17 CARDS OF CHEER CLUB 18 STUDENT LIFE

TRINITY FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS: Michael Herlihy, Chair Ernest Acquaah-Harrison, P’18, P’20, P’22 Richard Androlewicz, P’99, P’05 Mehdi Anwar Tom Dodge ‘73 William Fontaine, P’16, P’19 Ryan Ford, P’13, P’16 Talia Lachcik ‘11 Jim LaPosta Brett Marston ‘90 Raenato Patria ‘56 Robert Werge ‘84, P’11, P’13, P’21

24 INTERNATIONAL WEEK & INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PEACE 26 ALUMNI ON THE FRONT LINES 28 EARTH DAY 30 COMMENCEMENT 32 PRIZES & AWARDS 33 CELEBRATING THE CLASS OF 2020 34 CLASS NOTES 37 ALUMNI FEATURE: ASHLYN MERCIER ’19 38 ALUMNI FEATURE: PETER BANFICH ’70 39 IN MEMORIAM 45 ALUMNI WEEKEND

EDITOR IN CHIEF: Rachel Rogers LAYOUT & DESIGN: Erin Miller CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Scott Gimber, Erin Miller CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHY: Scott Gimber, Stan Godlewski, T. Hoang ’23, Erin Miller, Michelle, Parker, Cos Quercia, Michael Rainha, Rachel Rogers, Anna Werge

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he Marianapolis community was called … and we responded… in a year that will forever be remembered in the history of our School and of the world. As COVID-19 emerged, and we shifted to a virtual school experience, nobody quite knew the extent of the challenges that would face our community and the world at large. But most importantly, nobody knew the depth and breadth of character that would shine forth as we answered the call to make the most of this very unique time. I am proud that we opened our doors in September and remained open all year, while also providing options for students learning and participating remotely to remain connected to their fellow Golden Knights.

The pictures in this magazine will look different than past editions. You will see masks, social distancing, and missing coverage of customary events because they were postponed or canceled to safeguard the community’s health and wellness. However, you will also see smiles behind those masks, active participation in some very innovative ways to keep our community united, and the same Marianapolis spirit that nothing can dampen – not even COVID-19.

My sincere gratitude goes out to every member of our community who answered the call to keep the Marianapolis spirit alive this year. The challenges have been great, but our spirit has been greater. We have been adaptive, nimble, and most essential of all, united. Enjoy the pages ahead as a tribute to the hard work and commitment of all those who have made the 2020-2021 school year a wonderful experience.

Warm regards,

Joseph C. Hanrahan Head of School

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Teaching Through a Pandemic O

ver a year has passed since Marianapolis went online in response to the coronavirus pandemic. Today, students and faculty are back in the classroom, with precautions, and most classes are back to in-person instruction. In a year that has necessitated frequent change, teachers have been leaders in constantly adapting to new situations and guidelines. These teachers explain what it was like teaching through a pandemic.

Mrs. Jennie Benedict, who teaches AP Psychology and Sociology, was more prepared than most to go online in March 2020. As the Dean of Online Learning and having taught online classes for six years, she already had some idea of what it would entail to transition her classes.

“Just knowing the WebEx platform, knowing what types of apps work really well, has been a leg up,” Benedict said.

Something Benedict wanted to keep going strong regardless of class type was student engagement.

When students are online, she says, some have difficulties feeling engaged in the class, and she wanted to ensure students felt like they were still being included.

“I always tell my kids, ‘do not be afraid to unmute yourselves, this is not a hand-raising type of thing; interrupt, say that you can’t hear me, say that you need me to say that again,’ and just constantly reassuring them that that’s ok,” Benedict said.

Ms. Anna Werge, who teaches geometry, chemistry, and, at the time of lockdown, biology, also found she needed to encourage her students to speak up online more than in person.

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“I think when it’s easier for me to engage the kids that are in person, it makes the kids online more engaged, whether that’s them verbally engaging, or some of them use the chat to engage,” Werge said.

Marianapolis went back to mostly in-person learning in Fall 2020 with a trimester schedule. Students have four 50-minute classes a day on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday and three 1 hour and 10-minute classes Tuesday and Thursday. Lunch and study halls were spread across campus, and certain classes were moved into larger spaces in order to facilitate social distancing. WebEx rooms are still utilized for those who cannot attend in person.

While changes were happening frequently, Benedict credits the School with being very flexible with the teachers. She said she received a lot of support in trying to adapt to new guidelines.

“I cannot count the number of times David or Karen or Joe or Jane have reached out to the faculty as a whole but also individually this year,” Benedict said.

The School also saw an update in technology to help facilitate hybrid learning. Over the past summer, new ClearTouch screens were added to the classrooms.

These devices gave teachers a large screen whose touch capabilities allowed it to work as a whiteboard that could be seen by in-person students as well as a screen that could be shared online.

Benedict gives her students many hands-on projects to work with the course material, and this year was no exception. She replaced a project that had students create a 3D model of the brain with a project called celebrity brains, where students would identify the parts of the brain and their functions, rename those parts, and fill in the outline of the head

all based on a person or fictional character.

The main project she made sure to include was the mask project. Students create a mask that reflects aspects of themselves and personality, and it’s a project Benedict says is important for allowing students self-reflection. She has kept every mask made through the years she’s assigned this project. While they usually hang on the wall, she, unfortunately, does not have an assigned classroom this year. However, students were able to see examples from past years through a video Benedict had filmed of her classroom prior, and Benedict made sure that students were still able to continue the tradition.

“They were able to photograph them and submit them online that way, and we could still share them in class and present them, but it didn’t have to be something that needed a wall to hang on,” Benedict said.

She hopes that she’ll be able to collect masks from her students in a safe way to hang them on her wall as well when she’s able to again.

Werge has been conducting labs with both in-person and online students. Some of the labs have been completely virtual, such as a lab on the light emission spectrum that was done through a computer simulation. Other labs have utilized in-person and online student pairings. The students in person will be conducting the physical portions of the lab, while the online students would direct those students and document findings.

they can stay on top of it and stay organized,” Werge said.

There are changes from COVID-19 that some teachers are planning on keeping. Benedict is keeping the celebrity brains project, as she got good responses from the students. Werge is planning on keeping up the use of technology, as it’s had a positive impact on her and her students.

“I do like that use of technology; it’s made my life a little bit easier and I think the kids’ as well,” Werge said. “Because now it’s not just, ‘Oh, I missed those notes in class,’ it’s, ‘I have the classes recorded, I have the notes saved,’ so it’s easy for them to go back and use those resources where we didn’t have those resources before.”

For both, every step of the process from March 2020 to now necessitated one action: adapt.

“I feel like, with school, you kind of get into a pattern, but with what’s going on, that pattern is not consistent at all,” Werge said.

Werge and Benedict both stated that they needed to adapt to new situations as they arose, and the most important part was rolling with those changes to keep their classes running smoothly.

During the pandemic, teachers have done curriculum changes, teaching style changes, and had to be prepared at any second to change again.

Through all this, they took everything in stride and kept students learning and engaged in their classes.

“Even when they were doing it both in person, there’s always one person that is reading the directions, and there’s one person that’s acting out the lab so that

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Students’ Thoughts: What Did You Learn During the Pandemic?

“During the pandemic I learned that in-person relationships with other people are truly a crucial part of life, and we should cherish each moment with one other.”

-Emma McQuiston ’21

“During the pandemic, I learned the importance of maintaining strong connections with people important to me.”

-Donovan Hendrick ’23

“The pandemic and quarantine taught me how to be comfortable and patient with myself. With all the time we were given, it left room for overthinking which I learned to control. I believe the most important thing that could be taken from this pandemic is that my mind fought through this intense change of pace, and because of that I was able to understand more about myself and the ways I can become better mentally, socially, and even physically.”

-Lauren Conde ’24 “The pandemic made me take a closer look at my mental health. It taught me that I should find a balance between studying and having fun. Otherwise, I can feel mentally exhausted.”

-Thomas Santos Soares ’21

“During this pandemic, I have learned that it is okay to take time for yourself.

Before COVID I always seemed to be traveling for sports, doing work, or constantly looking for what is next. Once the world seemed to come to a standstill, I realized how little I relaxed and finally got to take a step back and take care of myself physically and mentally.”

-Lauren Lemire ’23 “This pandemic has been extremely eye-opening for me. I take in everything around me and appreciate the little things even more. I have learned a lot about myself in regards to my mental health and self-motivation as well.

Though it has been extremely difficult at times, I have leaned on my friends and family for support and continue to grow into a strong young woman.”

-Maya Summiel ’22 4

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Every one of us has a duty to self and community, following the principles that propel us along our path. We are called to be responsible stewards of the planet; we are called to show mercy to those hindered by misfortune; we are called to embrace a commitment to selflessness and service. We are called to unite, to act, to speak up, to lead. Our theme, We Are Called, will remind us that the year ahead is unlike any other; so, too, is our courage to navigate it.

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In his remarks to open the academic year, Head of School Joseph Hanrahan conveyed the mission of the School community to “meet this moment” — to “elevate the 2020-21 school year towards our most innovative and inclusive curricular approach to date.” In alignment with that goal, students and faculty, throughout the year, engaged in “education, reflection, and action” through involvement with groups dedicated to amplifying voices, promoting a nurturing community environment, and exploring topics on social justice, including issues of racism, discrimination, cultural bias, and gender inequity.

The Center for Social Justice This year, the Center for Civic Engagement and Service, started in 2015 to engage students interested in “law and justice, community building and participation, and public service,” was reimagined as the Center for Social Justice. Dr. Edward Sembor, Director of the Centers of Excellence, under which the Center for Social Justice falls, noted: “We all have been touched by developments in our country and world — and we are called to respond to universal issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion in a way that reflects our support of social justice. [...] Our embrace of the concept of social justice, of which civic engagement is a component, allows us to expand into these socially relevant areas and address the marginalized and vulnerable among us, through the Gospel values of unconditional love, service, and community. This was a most natural evolution for the Centers of Excellence, as it complements the history, culture, and expectations of Marianapolis.”

Traditionally, students who join the Center for Social Justice undertake an in-depth examination of their interest areas and participate in hands-on, practical experiences, including a supervised internship and capstone project. Given constraints imposed by the pandemic, students this year participated in externships to meet the goals of the program’s experiential component. Through research on issues and challenges within their interest areas, students developed questionnaires to guide their learning and sought answers from professionals in a range of fields.

Throughout the year, students in the Center for Social Justice shared presentations with the School community during Afternoon Gathering on social movements, including civil rights, women’s rights, and indigenous people’s rights. In addition, two students received scholarships for global leadership internships and participated in the 2021 Global Impact Virtual Internship offered by Global Leadership Adventures. During the spring, Molly Landis ’23 completed an internship with the Institute for Leadership and Communication Studies in Morocco focused on women’s empowerment and the provision of educational opportunities for those with limited access with a goal of promoting change through networking and enhancing communications skills. Emma Russell ’23 will complete an internship this summer focusing on medicine and public health in Thailand.

With enthusiasm for the social justice curriculum growing, Dr. Sembor noted, “We can all engage in [these issues] on a deeper level.” Looking ahead, there are plans for increased collaboration between the Centers for Social Justice, SHIELD, and Guiding Knights “on projects that [...] bring attention to social justice issues among students and provide opportunities for them to participate and engage in a constructive and educational way.”

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SHIELD, an acronym for Students Honoring Inclusion, Equity, Love, and Diversity, is a “student-driven effort to foster a safe, resonant experience for every single Golden Knight in our community, [...] propelling the concepts of inclusion, equity, love, and diversity into practice.”

Dr. Joseph Parodi-Brown, Director of the SHIELD program, emphasized its continued growth and evolution. “In August, SHIELD was just an idea, so everything that has happened this year has really been foundational to what [we] hope to achieve going forward. [...] One of the concepts that I think is most important about SHIELD is that it literally begins with students. That has been my focus throughout the year — how to get students involved, how to integrate their voices, and how to live up to the mission of SHIELD by centering students and their experiences.”

Global Impact Virtual Internships Molly Landis ‘23 Full Scholarship Social Justice in Morocco

Emma Russell ‘23 Partial Scholarship Medicine and Public Health in Thailand

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During the fall, Honors Literary Genres students, whose summer reading included The Hate U Give, hosted a seminar on the book. Their discussion centered around “what it was like to read the book — which deals with the shooting death of a Black teenager by police — as protests took hold around the world in response to George Floyd’s murder.” In a partnership across departments and programs, SHIELD collaborated with Michelle Drew, School Counselor and Academic Resource Advisor, to offer students “a weekly opportunity to process news items that might be affecting their mental health, causing them anxiety, or posing questions that they wanted to work through.”

During the winter, SHIELD held a Leadership Seminar Series, examining Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Six Principles of Nonviolence, building on a communitywide presentation by Dr. Paul Bueno de Mesquita, Director of the Center for Nonviolence & Peace Studies at the University of Rhode Island, and Roberta Opara, attorney, researcher, and co-trainer for the Center’s Kingian Nonviolence Conflict Reconciliation course.

Over six meetings, students examined Dr. King’s principles, and how they manifest today, through the lens of Stride Toward Freedom: The Montgomery Story.

During the spring, in support of the LGBTQ+ community, students observed a day of silence, representing the silencing that many in the community face each day, and culminating in a gathering to break the silence and discuss the experience. While students have informally observed this day in previous years, SHIELD’s formal involvement increased the event’s visibility and brought greater awareness to the experiences of fellow community members. Dr. ParodiBrown hopes to continue this trend in the future by involving more community members and positioning the event as a springboard for similar initiatives and dialogues.

As the program expands and students become more aware of what SHIELD aims to do, Dr. Parodi-Brown anticipates that excitement around the program will continue to build. “This first year has been about setting a foundation, and I am hopeful that this second year will build on that. I’m envisioning a fall and spring SHIELD Leadership Seminar series; integrating more student voices; and articulating programming that encompasses students’ identities and experiences and

highlights the importance of honoring our School’s diversity, promoting equitable experiences, ensuring the inclusion of everyone, and working for justice here and outside of our School.”

Looking ahead, Dr. Parodi-Brown hopes to formulate a SHIELD Leadership Council focused on “elevating students’ voices in creating activities, events, and experiences that will benefit the school community. I envision continued and expanded partnerships with classes, and with other school programs, including the Centers of Excellence, Residential Life, Community Service, and Campus Ministry, to ensure that the values of SHIELD, centered in the Marianapolis mission, are reflected holistically in the School’s culture.”

Guiding Knights Guiding Knights, grown from Marianapolis’ commitment to “listen, learn, and grow to bolster each and every student experience,” is a mentorship program supporting BIPOC students and allies, with the goal of fostering a safe and supportive space for the discussion of various experiences and perspectives on campus. The program is supported by the Alumni Office, the Counseling Office, and the Deans’ Office, and encourages alums to serve as mentors to current Golden Knights.

This year, the Guiding Knights, led by Mr. Anthony Gibson, DEI Program Coordinator and newly announced Director of BRACE Program (Building Resources and Curricular Enhancements), facilitated events during Black History Month that encouraged

the community to learn, converse, and reflect.

Student speakers shared “vulnerable moments and powerful words, in addition to hopes and goals for our community as we continue to grow into a truly inclusive environment,” noted Mr. Gibson.

In one feature, student speaker Oyetola Ajayi-Obe ’21 encouraged the community to “learn how to have uncomfortable conversations.” In another, Lawrence Alexander, leader for Carney, Sandoe & Associates’ Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion practice, posed reflective questions centered on daily habits that lead to social change and the power of influencing conversations about race and social justice.

From discussions around stereotypes experienced by BIPOC students on campus to explorations of iconic African American figures throughout history, Mr. Gibson’s goal was to create “great teaching moments and opportunities for students to have fun and build relationships. I loved giving students the chance to share their perspectives and let their voices be heard.

[Looking ahead,] we hope to evolve and expand on some of the events and conversations we had this year.

The goal is to bring the community even closer, with conversations and events that lead to everyone on campus being more comfortable.”

United by our mission to love unconditionally, we continue the vital work of broadening and enhancing our curriculum and programming through advisory, a focus on social justice and diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, and a commitment to creating an environment “where every community member is known, nurtured, and loved.”

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Community LEAP Days This year, LEAP events returned in the form of two community LEAP days at the end of the trimester. Through four two-hour sessions, students could choose between a variety of events, such as upcycling art and jewelry, playing wiffle ball or disc golf, learning about historic coins, and more!

Underclassmen were given 15 different on-campus activities to choose from, all of which were suggested by the faculty.

The Outdoor Cooking group made nachos and bread on a stick on the fire pit outside of Villa Maria with Ms. Jones and Ms. Curtis, while the Trivia group competed to be top player in Kahoot with the Benedicts. Students found their artistic sides during the Mug Cups & Coloring and Paint & Sip activities. For those looking to get outside and active, they joined yoga, wiffle ball, disc golf, and the 5k groups.

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Seniors had class-specific activities during this same time. On Wednesday, they went to The Adventure Park at Storrs to zipline and try out the ropes course, the usual senior class trip held at the beginning of the year. Thursday had the seniors signing the class book, taking advisory photos, and signing the rock.

After the final session, the whole campus was treated to a mini golf course in front of the main building. While seniors got to go through first, faculty and students of all years came to play.

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ATHLETICS

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FALL SPORTS

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, fall sports looked very different this year.

While allowed to practice following all health and safety protocols, teams were not able to compete. However, students were able to participate in limited scrimmages this season.

Girls’ Soccer, Boys’ Soccer, and Field Hockey all suited up in opposing home and away uniforms to play against their teammates in scrimmages.

Cross Country simulated a home meet for their team with home uniforms and a full race of Marianapolis runners.

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WINTER SPORTS

The winter sports season fell under the same guidelines as the fall season, with students participating in safe practices but having no competitive play. Despite this, our student athletes continued to work hard to make this season a good one. Below is what the coaches had to say about the season.

“They threw sparing bags instead of opponents. Avoided mop handles instead of arms. Drilled stand ups and shots over and over while coaches encouraged them to stay focused.”

-Chris Miller, Wrestling

“This season has only made us hungrier to capture a championship next year, and while it won’t be the same playing without our seniors, we want them to know that when we hang up the banner next year, we want them to come back and hang it with us.”

-Kirsty Leedham, Girls’ Varsity Basketball

“Despite a delay to the start of the season and the lack of competitive games, the commitment of the members of the Boys’ Varsity Basketball team didn’t wane for a moment.”

-Wes Howard, Boys’ Varsity Basketball

“This season offered creative opportunities to build physical strength and deepen our relationships with each other.”

-Meghan Cavanaugh, Indoor Track & Field

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SPRING SPORTS

Spring marked the return of a competitive sports season! Our teams participated in a limited number of games, matches, and meets while keeping with the current safety guidelines. While regular season play was still suspended, the student athletes gave every competition their all.

Baseball had a 4-1 season and went into the Tri-State Wood Bat League playoffs as the one seed. Despite falling to St. Thomas Moore in the Championships, the coaches were proud of the team’s resiliency.

Crew saw wins over Bancroft for the boys and Westover for the girls this season. The team had a number of new and returning members and continued to build on the progress they made in the fall.

Golf ended the season 4-1, ending with a 5-0 victory against MacDuffie. The golfers also achieved a close victory against Rocky Hill as Nick Boligan ’23 won his match on the final hole.

Boys’ Lacrosse took this season to improve skills and lacrosse IQ. The highlight of their season was a hard-fought 9-8 overtime loss to Bancroft, a game that the coaches viewed as a great example of the team’s determination and improving skills.

Girls’ Lacrosse ended with a 2-2 record, gaining a 10-3 win against St. Andrew’s and an 8-6 win against Rectory. The team competed this season with a 24-player roster that included five seniors and a number of new freshmen players.

Softball achieved a clean sweep this season, ending with a 7-0 record. Highlights include an 8-0 victory versus Ethel Walker and a 14-2 victory over St. Luke’s.

Boys’ Tennis saw a major win over MacDuffie this season, ending the match 7-0. The team also achieved a 5-2 victory over St. Andrew’s.

Girls’ Tennis saw 8 players experience their first varsity tennis match for Marianapolis this season.

Highlights of the season included a 5-0 victory over Bancroft and senior co-captain Emma Allen’s season-ending 8-4 victory over Kingswood Oxford.

Boys’ Track & Field also saw a number of school records broken this season. Salvatore Masciarelli ’21 broke the record for the 1500m twice with times of 4:21.57 and 4:20.16. Daniel Twohig-Mann ’22 set a new record in the 800m twice with times of 2:02.7 and 2:01.80.

The 4x4 team (C. O’Connor ’22, C. McLeod ’21, S. Masciarelli ’21, D. Twohig-Mann ’22) broke the record with a time of 3:45.55.

Girls’ Track & Field had multiple school records broken this season.

Lily Tessmer ’23 broke the pole vaulting record twice with heights of 9’0” and 9’6”. Sydney Masciarelli ’21 set a new record for the 1500m twice with times of 4:32.09 and 4:26.45. Maya Summiel ’22 broke the record in discus with a distance of 96’9”.

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COLLEGE SIGNINGS “I’m most excited for meeting new people, running with teammates that will push me to be my best every day, and to work every day to win a national championship as a team.”

“The goals of the team, where they want to be in the next couple of years, and what they want to accomplish -- I think my goals line up with theirs. That’s the kind of atmosphere I want to be in.”

-Sydney Masciarelli University of North Carolina Cross Country | Track & Field

-Salvatore Masciarelli Central Connecticut State University Cross Country | Track & Field “That was one of the biggest deciding factors when I was choosing between a college -- I can’t imagine not being on a team.”

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-Brianne Rett Le Moyne College Track & Field

On May 8, Marianapolis held an event celebrating all seniors who committed to college sports, regardless of NCAA division.

The athletes had photo opportunities with the Knight, Athletic Director Andrew Vitale, family, and friends. Congrats to all of our future college athletes! Click here to view all photos.

Class of 2021 Collegiate Athletes Emma Allen Clark University Soccer

Michael Levesque Endicott College Basketball

Maya Benway Wellesley College Field Hockey

Nicholas Lindberg St. Michael’s College Baseball

Fiona Doiron Brandeis College Softball

Salvatore Masciarelli Central Connecticut State University Cross Country and Track & Field

Chad Duke University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth Basketball

Sydney Masciarelli University of North Carolina Cross Country and Track & Field

Ehmil Johnson Wheaton College Basketball

Emma McQuiston Keene State College Soccer

Kualim Johnson Trinity College Basketball

Charles Mukweva Roger Williams University Basketball

TJ Kennison Elms College Soccer

Brianne Rett Le Moyne College Track & Field

Caroline King Babson College Basketball

Frederick Rushton United States Naval Academy Baseball 15

Fall & Spring Dance Shows The Fall 2020 Dance Show premiered on the lawns of Marianapolis in early November. Dance teacher and choreographer Kendra Sumner filmed, edited, and produced the entire show throughout the fall season. The finished piece was displayed on outdoor ClearTouch boards for students, faculty, and staff to enjoy. The show was also streamed on the Marianapolis website. You can view the show here.

The Spring 2021 Dance Show was performed outside on the Gustavson Track & Field. Spectators were invited to watch from the hill outside the Athletic Complex.

Winter Drama Screenings The Winter Drama productions “When Shakespeare’s Ladies Meet” by Charles George and “Sure Thing” by Jason Buzas were filmed and produced by drama co-directors Dr. Joseph Parodi-Brown and Michelle Parker.

The performances were streamed outdoors on ClearTouch boards during the final week of school.

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Spreading Joy One Letter at a Time J

unior Olivia Sczuroski was home in quarantine when she began writing to her friends. She wrote letters, sent watercolor paintings, and found physical ways to keep in touch. The excitement and happiness she felt when she got letters back made her think that others might appreciate it just as much. So she created the Cards of Cheer Club.

Cards of Cheer Club was founded in September of 2020 with the mission to donate letters, cards, poems, or really anything physical that would bring people joy in a difficult time to different organizations, topics, and more.

Olivia’s sister is a healthcare worker, so she knew she wanted to send things to them.

However, she didn’t want to limit what types of organizations they would make cards for.

“I knew I wanted to start a club based on sending people letters, cards, or something, and maybe I’ll just make it open-ended to whatever the club is feeling is most important at the time,” Olivia said.

By April, the club had completed four giving initiatives. They sent over 120 cards to Day Kimball Healthcare, 30-50 to a nursing home in an initiative with Thompson Ecumenical Empowerment Group, 156 to Make a Wish, and some to Sage Dining Staff in an effort with the Student Council.

Despite its beginnings in the pandemic and thanks to healthcare workers, the club has no plans to slow down. They still plan to come up with initiatives and hope to be able to meet more next year.

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Halloween The Marianapolis community brought their A-game for this socially-distanced Halloween.

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Rake Day A Rake Day advisory photo challenge inspired some competition and creative shots.

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Dodgeball & Kickball Community-wide recreational sports brought friendly competition and camaraderie to a year where competitive sports were throttled. The faculty team was victorious in dodgeball, while a student team won the kickball tournament.

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SPIRIT WEEK CRAZY HAT DAY PAJAMA DAY DISNEY DAY WILD WEST DAY COLOR WARS 21

SPORTS DAY

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The COVID-19 pandemic couldn’t stop this Marianapolis tradition from happening, with a few alterations. Rather than pit class against class, this year’s Sports Day saw advisories compete against each other.

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International Week This year’s International Week was a time to celebrate and reflect on our global community, the cultures, traditions, and customs we each embrace and bring to the School, and ways in which Marianapolis alums from around the globe were shaped by their experiences and inspired to make their mark on the world after graduation.

In addition to presentations, reflections, and discussions highlighting the backgrounds and cultures represented within our community of Golden Knights, this year’s festivities also included themed dress-down days and a week-long virtual scavenger hunt.

Making a virtual return to campus, the week’s featured speaker, Cooper Bayiha ’07, shared his experience as a boarding student at Marianapolis from Cameroon. He fondly recalled faculty members who served as mentors and guides during his time on campus and detailed the inspiration behind The Baobab Project, an organization he created with a mission to serve youth through the development of leadership and interpersonal skills, using basketball as a platform.

The baobab tree serves as a symbol of strength and longevity, and the organization takes “great pride in nurturing the roots -- the parts of each individual that we cannot see.” Student-athletes are paired with coaches/mentors and participate in training sessions, camps, clinics, and workshops that “help young people to improve in every aspect of their lives.”

Cooper is no stranger to the power of the coach-athlete relationship, as he was a standout forward on Marianapolis’ basketball team and continued on to play at the collegiate level. The community thoroughly enjoyed learning about how Cooper’s experiences at Marianapolis shaped his personal and professional journey -- and the ways in which he and his organization continue to make a positive difference in the world.

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International Day of Peace

On Monday, September 21, Marianapolis, along with the world, observed International Day of Peace with a special Afternoon Gathering that featured a panel of alumni and parents whose work in their respective professions and life experiences have allowed them to examine this issue in unique ways. Sabira Moradi ’14, Julio Sosa ’70, and Lisa Laurel Weinberg-O’Brien P’23 shared how they decided to work for justice issues, whether it was through entrepreneurship and business, immigration law, or international development and health care, and how each of their jobs related to the work of peace. All panelists encouraged Marianapolis students to take a positive stand for what they believe in, to examine every day what they did to achieve their goals, what they will need to do moving forward, and not to be afraid if they have not made an impact yet, but to keep trying to make a difference every day, never losing hope.

The framework for the afternoon gathering and the small discussion groups that followed was “UN75 2020 and Beyond.” The International Day of Peace was established in 1981 by the United Nations General Assembly. Two decades later, in 2001, the General Assembly unanimously voted to designate the Day as a period of non-violence and cease-fire. This year, the UN, like the Marianapolis community, has spent a period of time listening and learning. The organization is asking all of us to think about how we will unite to weather the storm our planet and its people are facing and shape peace together.

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Alumni on the Front Lines Three Marianapolis alumni describe working in healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic

Christopher Wiltersherry, MPH ‘04

Center photos courtesy of Larry Guertin ‘70

Larry Guertin ‘70

Allison Quevillion ‘10 For Allison Quevillion ’10, an occupational therapist, the COVID-19 pandemic has been a lesson in “living in the uncomfortable.” At the start of the pandemic, Allison worked at one of the largest skilled nursing facilities in the state of Colorado. Faced with multiple COVID outbreaks at the facility, she took on end-of-life care for patients and learned “how to bring comfort and peace to those who could not be surrounded by loved ones while going through the end-of-life process.”

In Allison’s words: “I took on the pseudo-roles of loved-one and caregiver. I prayed with the religious, listened to stories of patients’ youth, held up technology devices so they could speak to their families through video, and comforted them as they transitioned. Along with the pandemic, we battled the country’s mental health crisis. We comforted each other and shared wisdom with one another that I wouldn’t have had the privilege to experience if I had any other career. Working in healthcare teaches you to be patient and empathetic towards others, but I’ve learned much more about humanity itself this year -- and even more so, how to show love.”

During her time as a Marianapolis student, Allison was unsure of where her path might lead but knew a desk job wouldn’t suit her and was drawn to the helping professions. As a senior, she was confident that her helping profession of choice would take the form of classroom teaching. It was during her undergraduate career at UCONN, however, that an experience as a camp counselor for adults with disabilities introduced her to the world of occupational therapy and set her on a path towards her next goal — a Masters in Occupational Therapy from Ithaca College.

It turns out, a desire to teach aligned well with a career in occupational therapy. Says Allison, “In many ways, I am a teacher. I teach people how to take care of themselves again; I teach them new ways to work around whatever deficits or life changes they may have experienced, and I teach them new ways to feel fully in love with their lives again.”

In looking back on her time at Marianapolis, Allison recalls the sense of community, the high level of college preparation, and the teachers who supported her while influencing her understanding of the type of helper she wanted to become. Of particular note were Mrs. Guilbault and Mr. Vitale, both of whom provided extra encouragement in mathematics, and Ms. Parker, who made learning science “infectious” and sparked an early interest in health-related fields of study.

To current students and alums, Allison provides the following words of wisdom: “Life isn’t linear. Mine has always felt like a child got a hold of a crayon and went crazy on the walls. Don’t hold yourself to timelines -- let your intuition guide you. If you’re interested in a career in healthcare, shadow as many people as possible -- physical therapists, occupational therapists, nurse practitioners, dentists. Interview them, ask them questions -- this will help you decide which path is most appropriate for you. We are given the gift of one life, so make it work!”

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Larry Guertin ‘70 Even during his time as a student at Marianapolis, alum Larry Guertin ’70 was confident in his life’s calling — he would dedicate his career to helping others improve their physical and mental health. After graduating, Larry studied nursing with a specialization in mental health and began his career at Norwich State Hospital in 1979. Larry and his wife, Judy, married in 1981, and the couple relocated to Massachusetts, where Larry continued to pursue his passion and purpose with the VA Bedford Healthcare System. For nearly 34 years, leading up to his retirement in February of 2015, Larry cared tirelessly for our nation’s veterans as a Registered Nurse.

In retirement, Larry pursued another dream job — this time, with BMW, traversing New England in their newest fleets of vehicles. But as COVID-19 began to spread in early 2020, Larry, in an effort to limit his travels, transitioned out of his role with BMW. As the world faced a pandemic and growing public health crisis, a desire to help others remained at the forefront of Larry’s mind. Once vaccines became available, Larry returned to the VA Bedford Healthcare System as a COVID Support RN, administering COVID-19 vaccines to veterans.

In Larry’s words, “It’s [a] pleasure to make a difference and truly protect and save lives.” Looking to the future, it’s his hope that, by September, we will begin to see the light at the end of the tunnel and have some semblance of “control over this deadly virus.”

Thinking back on his time as a Marianapolis student, Larry fondly recalls Rake Day, a formative, team-building experience, serving as a student waiter during mealtimes, and the sweltering spring day when the headmaster relaxed the dress code, allowing students to loosen their ties. He credits the Marianapolis community with helping to provide him with a solid “foundation for life’s success” and, as a testament to the strength of our community, notes that, though decades have passed since his time at Marianapolis, he still maintains friendships with fellow Golden Knights.

To current students and young alums, Larry provides the following words of wisdom: “Work hard and play hard…Keep your faith and practice your good works…And remember to be charitable and kind to your fellow human beings.”

Christopher Wiltersherry, MPH ‘04 As the Business Operations Manager for Newton-Wellesley Medical Group, Christopher Wiltersherry ’04, formerly Christopher Wilterdink,

knows a thing or two about managing projects and improving processes in the healthcare space — so it’s no surprise that he has played a vital role throughout the organization’s response to COVID-19.

At the start of the pandemic, Chris helped to operationalize the hospital’s respiratory infection clinic, ensuring that patients with upper respiratory symptoms were properly evaluated for possible COVID-19 diagnoses. His attention then shifted to relocating the hospital’s COVID testing operation from the roof of the employee garage to its permanent location inside the hospital. During the fall, Chris focused his efforts on walk-in clinic operations and, during the winter, began leading operations at the hospital’s employee and patient vaccine clinics. To drive an efficient, large-scale vaccine rollout, Newton-Wellesley Hospital partnered with Tripadvisor, setting up a patient vaccine clinic in the online travel company’s vacant global headquarters in Needham, Massachusetts.

During his time at Marianapolis, Chris honed critical thinking and problem-solving skills — both of which aid in tackling daily challenges in his professional life — and developed a passion for service. As a student, Chris volunteered at the Assisi Food Pantry with the National Honor Society, led fundraisers to benefit the same organization, and held the role of altar server at Mass with Fr. Timothy Roth, MIC. In addition to a strong foundation in academics and service, Marianapolis provided Chris with countless memories — Fall Rake Day, Halloween Costume Day with Mr. Perkins, history class with Eric ‘G’ Gustavson, bus rides to away games with the soccer team, Ring Day, pre-calculus with Father Gurklis, and Shakefest with Mr. Edgar.

Attracted to the Jesuit ideal of ‘men and women for others’ and in keeping with a service-driven purpose, Chris spent his undergraduate years at College of the Holy Cross. While at Holy Cross, Chris completed an internship at Hartford Hospital, which led him to pursue his Masters in Public Health at Boston University and propelled him into a career in healthcare management, blending his passions for “mission-driven work and problem-solving to improve the healthcare delivery system.” Since completing graduate school, Chris has held strategic planning roles at Winchester Hospital, as well as project management and operations roles at Massachusetts General Hospital and Newton-Wellesley Hospital.

To alums and current students interested in healthcare, Chris suggests shadowing and conducting informational interviews with individuals across the space to learn about potential paths and trajectories. As a Spanish and English double major, he recommends pursuing subjects in college that are interesting — not necessarily subjects that are tied to an ideal career path — as well as “trying new classes and taking on projects outside of your comfort zone…to add critical thinking and other skills to your toolkit, no matter your future career path!”

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Earth Day 2021 The Marianapolis community celebrated our planet the week of April 19-23. On Monday during afternoon gathering, we welcomed Elizabeth Turnbull Henry, President of the Environmental League of Massachusetts, to speak about the perils of the climate crisis, the opportunities we have to harness clean, sustainable energy sources to power our world, and how to lessen the detrimental impact humans have on the planet.

“By the time your kids are in high school, the world needs to look very different. It needs to largely have eliminated the combustion of fossil fuels. It needs to have largely electrified the transportation and heating sectors globally,” Turnbull Henry said. “In the next 30 years, we will be unlocking a tremendous amount of innovation and investment to get us there.”

The Green Knights created a video about what Earth Day means and ways we can protect the environment. Some of the examples they provided were picking up litter you see outside, being more aware of your environmental impact, and planting more. One significant point they made was reducing your plastic usage. Ms. Kelly McLane, a Green Knights faculty advisor, calculated how many plastic water bottles the community goes through each week: 1,728. Finding ways to mitigate that usage, she said, makes all the difference.

“If you are drinking one of these water bottles, put it in the recycling bin. However, an even better solution: a reusable water bottle,” McLane said.

On May 22, Earth Day, the Green Knights set up a number of activities for students to participate in. Science TAs Madelyn Grundstrom, Dan Twohig-Mann, and Ashley Vandenbrouck used shaving cream and food dye to demonstrate the effects of oil spills. Mrs. Vitale gave a presentation on toxins in the cosmetics and personal care industry. Sophomore Thu Hoang led a environmental message postermaking session, and Ms. Chojnacki and Ms. Werge worked with students to make artwork out of bottle caps. These activities, plus more, were meant to get students thinking about the Earth and ways we affect and can appreciate it.

Marianapolis has no plans to slow down on their sustainability efforts and going green. As part of that commitment, Mr. Wesley Howard has been announced as the School’s Director of Sustainability.

Class of 2021 The Marianapolis community gathered to celebrate the graduation of 97 students at the School’s 96th commencement exercises held on May 22. The event brought together parents, family, friends, faculty, and staff to reflect on students’ successes and thank them for their efforts in leading and supporting the school community.

graduates to find their calling, and to embrace the winding road and pivots along the way, noting that “it takes time for a calling to take shape and come to fruition,” but with patience, persistence and positivity, “you will find your unique, special calling…and experience an amazing journey along the way.”

In his opening remarks, Head of School Joseph Hanrahan welcomed guests, thanked all who helped the Class of 2021 to reach this milestone, acknowledged alums who “returned to the community to serve” as faculty and staff members, and expressed appreciation for Eric Gustavson’s commitment to Marianapolis as he marked his 40th year at the School.

In her valedictory address, Chiara Faiola drew parallels between the “found families” of Marvel superheroes, groups of misfits who “come together and form something greater — a collective more powerful than each individual on their own,” and the Class of 2021. Alluding to the strength of bonds forged between members of her class, Faiola posited, “No matter how far we stray from one another — whether a few towns or an entire ocean — we will always have a home at Marianapolis and a family amongst each other.”

Salutatorian Kyle Woodruff, in his address to members of the Class of 2021, reflected on the interplay between intelligence and imagination — noting that “intelligence isn’t memorizing facts…[but rather] using what one knows to do something that nobody else has done before” and envisioning imagination as “the gateway to reality.” Through this lens, he encouraged the class to use their intelligence and imagination “to the fullest” and to “celebrate [their] ability to look past what’s right in front of them,” discovering new ways to reach their goals along the way.

Daniel Atwood P’01, P’07, P’20, and former Trinity Foundation Board Chair, delivered the commencement address. Drawing on personal anecdotes and stories of well-known public figures, Atwood challenged graduates to “study the important issues of our time from multiple perspectives — draw your own conclusions and advocate for them” and, at the same time, “build bridges of understanding, mutual respect, and care.” He encouraged

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Following the announcement of Silver Bowl Honors recipients, Senior Class President Samuel Bouchard and fellow Class Officers presented this year’s class gift — Adirondack chairs to ensure that community members and visitors alike have the opportunity to sit back and “take in the beauty of Marianapolis’ marvelous campus.”

In closing, Head of School Joseph Hanrahan left the Class of 2021 with this message: “You have grit — you came through this year together and met the challenges of history head-on […] The world is calling each of you to make a difference — to carry what you have learned here to the four corners of the globe [...] You are equipped with faith and perseverance. Faith in God, faith in yourselves, faith in humanity. Golden Knights persevere. Golden Knights make history.”

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Prizes and Awards FRESHMAN

Father Mark Garrow, MIC Award: Lauren Conde Father Stanley Saplis, MIC Award: Giana DeCesare Father Timothy Roth, MIC Award: Kiera MacKenzie The Leonard George Budelis ’38 Award: Sydney Lundt

SOPHOMORE

Father Albin A. Sheputa, MIC Award: Caroline Villa Friends of Marianapolis Award: Thu Hoang Smith College Book Award: Dominika Chmielewski Sophomore Chemistry Award: Felicia Fongemie Sophomore World History Award: Molly Landis

JUNIOR

Assumption University Book Award: Sophia Rabitor University of Rochester Fredrick Douglass & Susan B. Anthony Award: Mackenzie Jutras Gettysburg College Book Award: Daniel Twohig-Mann Suffolk University Book Award: Sophia Maloney Brandeis University Book Award: Olivia-Mae Acquaah-Harrison Saint Anselm College Book Award: Morgan Beaudreault Bryn Mawr College Book Award: Mackenzie Jutras Saint Bonaventure University Award: Lily Mueller Lasell University Book Award: Gabriela Fung Russell Sage College Student Sage Awards: Keegan McLeod, Rachel Ullstrom University of Rochester George Eastman Young Leaders Award: Maya Summiel Junior Biology Prize: Spencer Courville University of Rochester Bausch & Lomb Honorary Science Award: Daniel Twohig-Mann University of Rochester Xerox Award for Innovation & Information Technology: Ian MacKenzie Harvard Prize Book: Daniel Twohig-Mann The Grace Rett Philippians 4:13 Award: Olivia-Mae Acquaah-Harrison

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SENIOR

Eric Gustavson US History Medal: Thomas Santos Soares Religious Studies Medal: Lily Givner Physics Medal: John Vigliotti Spanish Medal: Isabella Gonzalez Fr. Albin Gurklis Mathematics Medal: Thomas Santos Soares Music Medal: Brianne Rett Gertrude Salvas English Language Medal: Haruna Kobayashi English Medal: Maura Hoban Dance Medals: Abigail Boria, Alexandra Delano Drama Medal: Laurelyn Mayen Social Sciences Medal: Emma McQuiston Tom Perkins Art Medals: Qianhui Lin, Brianne Rett Computer Science Medal: Qianhui Lin Marilyn S. Ebbitt Book Award: Brianne Rett Valedictorian Bowl: Chiara Faiola Salutatorian Bowl: Kyle Woodruff The Father Casimir Kuckell Memorial Awards: Salvatore Masciarelli, Sydney Masciarelli The Congregation of the Marian Fathers Centennial Awards: Conner McLeod, Katerina Looney The Mothers of Marianapolis Award: Tram Vo The Marianapolis Alumni Merit Award: Maura Hoban The Dr. Louis Loffredo Memorial Awards: Jenin Ayyash, Tyler DiPietro The Father John Petrauskas Memorial Award: Abigail Boria The John Kendrtarvich Memorial Award: Chiara Faiola

Celebrating the Class of 2020 In the midst of a global pandemic, the Class of 2020 concluded their time on campus last spring with the School’s first-ever virtual commencement ceremony. On May 23, 2021, members of the Class of 2020, along with parents, family, and friends, returned to campus and joined Marianapolis faculty and staff under the commencement tent to participate in a celebration of the class’s accomplishments, providing an opportunity to return ‘home’ and to reconnect after a year of quarantines and socially distant gatherings. Those who were unable to attend in-person celebrated virtually and were featured on-screen during the ceremony.

Daniel Atwood P’01, P’07, P’20, former Trinity Foundation Board Chair, and Class of 2021 commencement speaker, returned to provide the day’s invocation. Following introductions from Head of School Joseph Hanrahan, Karen Carter, Development and Alumni Affairs Officer, alongside Chef Lichtenhan, announced the class gift — two new grills to enhance SAGE Dining Services’ repertoire. Carter noted, “Your class made history by participating in the first online senior gift campaign. You have truly learned the heart of philanthropy and [SAGE Dining is] grateful for your generosity [...] In graduating people of character and integrity, we are contributing to the betterment of the world.” Chef Lichtenhan added, “You don’t realize how important good equipment is [...] From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you.” In addition, Carter commended the parents of the Class of 2020 for their efforts in reaching a $15,000 fundraising goal to update the carpet in the chapel.

Dr. Joseph Parodi-Brown presented each member of the Class of 2020 with a Wisdom Scroll, containing wise words and pieces of advice that faculty “weren’t able to share in person last year.” Following the presentation of scrolls, a video montage featured a compilation of fond memories and well wishes for the Class from members of the community, including current students, Andrew Vitale, Joseph Parodi-Brown, Fr. Allen Alexander, Jane and Joe Hanrahan, and Dylan-Ernst Schäfer.

In his closing remarks, Joseph Hanrahan presented the Class with reflective questions -- do we feel prepared for the future? How do we put ourselves in a position to find success? What are our obstacles and challenges? What do we miss most about Marianapolis? Class of 2020 alums in the audience provided answers to the last question: the community, the teachers, Morning Meeting, Mr. Hess’ weather reports, Chef, having G as a golf coach.

In a ceremony that served as both a ‘farewell’ and a ‘welcome home’, Hanrahan noted that graduates may be met with two roads: “one leading you back to your experiences on campus, and the other to your destination [...]

When you return to a place, it often seems smaller. The place played an important part in your daily life, but your experiences have expanded. Class of 2020, you will always be a big part of our lives. Thank you for keeping Marianapolis a part of yours.”

Following the ceremony, members of the Class of 2020 gathered for a photo and participated in beloved Marianapolis traditions that were missed last year, including ringing the victory bell, signing the rock, signing the college banner, and receiving yearbooks.

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CLASS NOTES 1968

2001

Paul Lango competed in the Connecticut Masters’ Games (formerly known as The Connecticut Senior Games) in May and finished 2nd place in hammer, 4th place in 50M, 5th place in javelin, 5th place in shot put, and 6th place in discus.

Jessica Valby and her husband, Craig, launched Stave and Still in the midst of a pandemic on August 4, 2020.

1970 Chris Cavallo has been a Private Investigator in South Florida for 40+ years. He’s in the beginning stages of writing a documentary about the disease of addiction and hopes to share when finished in the next 2 years.

1991 Marc Heilemann was recently promoted to Vice President, Business Development for Latin America and the USA region at Cloud4C, a Managed Services Provider. After working at IBM, Fujitsu, Symantec, and Compaq in various leadership roles, this promotion provides the most challenges and largest territory of responsibility, while requiring adaptation to the new realities and impact of COVID-19. His wife, Andrea, their 4-year-old daughter, Emma, and he have lived in Quito, Ecuador since 2014. He hopes to get back in touch with fellow alumni, and would be glad to help “mentor soon-to-be Marianapolis graduates and recent graduates as they face the new challenges that await.”

1996 Jorge Figueroa lives in Miami with his wife and three children.

They visited campus together during a trip through the Northeast last summer -- and snapped some great photos!

2002 Paul-John Mattingly and his family moved to the Berkshires in August of 2019, where his wife began her job as the Development Associate for Gould Farm, a therapeutic mental health farm. In March of 2020, Mattingly began working at Berkshire Community College as the Director of Workforce Development: Advanced Manufacturing.

2005 Cassandra (Cassie) Lavimoniere works as a registered nurse and, since 2013, has lived in Seattle with her husband, Mike. They welcomed a baby girl in March of 2020.

2006 Dale Zajac is a senior engineer at Pfizer. As a member of the bioprocess research and development department, he was involved in the development of Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine.

2007 Kwang Hyun (Dustin) Kim earned his MD from Kyungpook National University in March of 2020. He previously earned his BS in public health science from UC Irvine.

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Yiyi Chen is pursuing a graduate degree in computer science at the University of Pennsylvania. She is a 2015 graduate of Rice University.

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Ryan Werge received a promotion to supervisor from his current employer, Medical Information Technology (MEDITECH). He will be managing a new team for the company that focuses on software as a service implementation for hospitals. Ryan also recently began working towards his Master’s in Business Administration from Southern New Hampshire University. He hopes to complete his MBA within 2-3 years.

2014 Lauren George is an accelerated Master of Nursing candidate with a concentration in nurse midwifery at the Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing at Emory University.

Lauren received a BS in public health with a minor in Spanish from the University of South Florida in 2018 and a Master of Public Health with a concentration in global health from Brown University, with a focus on reproductive and perinatal health. She plans to combine her foundations in nursing and global public health to improve the healthcare system and create a more holistic model of care.

2015 Kyle Barrett started a new job as an Occupational Therapist at Cheshire Fitness Zone Pediatric Therapy.

Ben Mandile graduated from Fort Lewis College (CO) with a BA in journalism and multimedia studies. He recently started a job as a General Assignment Reporter with The Chronicle News in Trinidad, CO.

2016 Kathryn Fontaine finished her last 3 co-ops with ServiceNow in December of 2020, and graduated from Northeastern University in May. Reed Hopkins graduated from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst in 2020 with a BS and is now pursuing a PhD in geosciences at Stony Brook University.

William LaFiandra graduated from the College of the Holy Cross in 2020 with degrees in economics and political science.

He was awarded a Certificate in Business Fundamentals from the Carlyse and Arthur A. Ciocca ‘59 Center for Business, Ethics and Society, and the 2020 Freeman M. Saltus Prize for excellence in writing

essays on labor and economics. William lives in Washington, DC. Alex Murphy graduated Cum Laude from the College of the Holy Cross in May with a degree in physics.

Delainey O’Connor graduated from Worcester Polytechnic Institute in 2020. She was featured in a Virtual Undergraduate Research Showcase for her research on neuronal responses to stress stimuli on Caenorhabdidtis elegans. She recently received her Masters in biochemistry at WPI in May and is currently working in the research lab at UMASS Medical Center.

Megan Romprey graduated from Stonehill College in 2020 with a BS in neuroscience. She is currently a PhD Student at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine. Megan will be receiving her doctorate in neuroscience and her dissertation will be on spinal cord regeneration following injury. She previously worked at Harvard Medical School as a Research Associate, focusing on mapping the neuroanatomy related to sleep and sleep deprivation. Megan also worked at Biomere as a Research Associate, focusing on pharmacological research in a contract research organization (CRO) setting.

2017 Dalton Bodreau graduated from the College of the Holy Cross in May with a BA in political science.

Tyler Carlson graduated from Assumption University in May with a degree in accounting.

Matthew Hauver received a BA in philosophy from the College of the Holy Cross in May. Reanna Kuzdzal graduated from Connecticut College in May and won the Anthropology Department’s Eva L. Butler Memorial Prize and the Claire Garber Goodman ’54 Award, as well as the East Asian Languages and Cultures Prize, the Museum Studies Award, and the Walter Commons Distinguished Fellow Award.

Jacob LaFiandra was named to the Fall 2020 Dean’s List at Stonehill College.

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Owen O’Connell graduated from the College of the Holy Cross, with majors in Chinese and economics, and a minor in Asian studies.

Silvia Pellegrino attends Oxford Brookes University in Oxford, England, and writes for the music blog indiecentralmusic.com.

Emily Sheridan was named to the Fall 2020 Dean’s List at Ohio Wesleyan University.

Celina Stansky was named to the Fall 2020 Dean’s List at Stonehill College.

Ziyun Zhang, a psychology major, was named to the Dean’s list at Miami University (OH) for the Fall 2020 semester.

Hannah Yash was named to the Fall 2020 Dean’s List, became a member of Psi Chi, the International Honor Society in Psychology, and in May, graduated from Assumption University.

2018 Alyssa Caputo was named to the Fall 2020 President’s List at Husson College. She is enrolled in Husson’s Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science/Doctor of Physical Therapy program.

2019 Tara Daniels was named to the Fall 2020 Dean’s List at Nichols College.

Rebecca Jalbert was named to the Fall 2020 Dean’s List at Assumption University.

Kathleen Joiner was named to the Fall 2020 President’s List at The University of Hartford.

Kara O’Neil was named to the Fall 2020 Dean’s List at Worcester Polytechnic Institute.

Samuel Roy was named to the Fall 2020 Dean’s List at Assumption University.

Sophia Zhang was named to the dean’s list at Bates College for the Fall 2020 semester. She is majoring in psychology and economics, and minoring in rhetoric, film and screen studies.

2020

Gwyneth Gould was named to the Fall 2020 Dean’s List at Stonehill College.

Michael Acquaah-Harrison and his sister, Olivia ’22, developed an app called Eyewitness. The app is almost fully developed and ready to enter the Beta testing phase. Michael completed his PG year at Trinity-Pawling in May and received two distinctions: the Headmaster’s Award for Excellence & Outstanding Achievement in Senior Independent Project.

Nora Ilacqua was named to the Fall 2020 Dean’s List at Assumption University.

Ethan Gosper was named to the Fall 2020 Dean’s List at Nichols College.

McKenna Moors was named to the Fall 2020 Dean’s List at Loyola University Maryland.

Thomas Nurse was named to the Fall 2020 Dean’s List at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, where he is studying robotics and electrical & computer engineering. During the summer, he will work as a Systems Test Engineering Intern for iRobot in Bedford, MA.

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Myles Wagner received a 2021 Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship, a national scholarship that honors undergraduate students studying natural sciences, mathematics, or engineering. Wagner is a marine biology and cell and molecular biology double major, as well as a member of the honors program, at the University of Rhode Island.

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Alumni Spotlight: Ashlyn Mercier ‘19 Since her graduation from Marianapolis, Ashlyn Mercier ‘19 has dedicated her time to serving others and to making a positive difference in the lives of children battling critical illnesses.

A rising junior studying National Security at the University of New Haven, Ashlyn was crowned Miss Gold Coast 2021 and competed for the title of Miss Connecticut earlier this spring, securing an impressive finish as 4th Runner-Up and receiving the 2021 Rookie Award.

With a mission to “prepare great women for the world, and prepare the world for great women,” The Miss America Organization and its competitors are “future builders, difference makers, voice lifters, course shifters, and cause supporters.” The Miss America Organization is one of the nation’s largest providers of scholarships for young women and provides a platform for participants to advocate for causes near and dear to their hearts.

For Ashlyn, that cause honors her younger brother, Nick, a two-time pediatric cancer survivor, and the namesake for Ashlyn’s impact project, Nick’s Courage: One Smile Goes a Mile.

Through her own family’s experience with childhood illness, Ashlyn appreciates the vital role of a positive outlook and strives to provide “a ray of hope” for kids facing similar challenges, through her partnerships with various organizations with positivity-spreading missions. In Ashlyn’s words, “I often remind myself that ‘I cannot do all the good that the world needs. But the world needs all the good that I can do.’ I truly believe that, for children battling critical illnesses, one smile can go a mile.”

In addition to her dedication to service and social impact — core aspects of the Marianapolis experience — Ashlyn drew upon another Marianapolis connection throughout the competition: her passion for dance. As a dancer at Marianapolis, Ashlyn looked to Mrs. Sumner, Visual & Performing Arts Department Chair,

as a mentor during her time on campus. For the talent portion of the Miss Connecticut competition, Ashlyn chose to perform a contemporary dance — and in true Marianapolis spirit, Mrs. Sumner signed on as Ashlyn’s dance coach to help her prepare.

Says Ashlyn, “I often cite my Marianapolis education as something I am extremely grateful for” — and given the lasting bonds Ashlyn formed at Marianapolis, it’s no wonder why.

“I was so excited to have Mrs. Sumner by my side. I am so grateful to have met her during my time at Marianapolis and am so thankful for the ongoing support from my Marianapolis family.”

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Alumni Spotlight: Peter Banfich '70 “Peter, you gave up too soon.” The words, now etched in his mind, were spoken

by Father Kuckell as Peter Banfich ’70 crossed the finish line in a cross country race against his classmate, Steve Smoot ’70. Steve had come in first, but Peter walked away from the race in possession of a life-changing lesson and the newfound sense that obstacles were only opportunities in disguise.

After graduating from Marianapolis, Peter attended Providence College, majoring in English Literature and minoring in Philosophy. Driven by his interest in writing, Peter chose to work in the college bookstore as part of a work-study program.

Through the bookstore, Peter was introduced to Barnes and Noble booksellers and, thanks to those connections, landed a job with Barnes and Noble in New York. Peter spent nearly ten years with the company until their textbook division was eliminated.

It just so happened that Chris Cavallo ’70, Peter’s roommate during his time at Marianapolis, knew of a new opportunity. Chris’ father and brother ran a small furniture manufacturing business in New York that they hoped to expand nationally. Peter was brought on board to help with the expansion and found himself enthralled by the world of furniture manufacturing and design. He was hooked — conversations with “interior designers, hotel specifiers, and retail and trade showroom owners” proved to be far more interesting than conversations with college textbook buyers.

After working in the furniture industry for several years, Peter and his wife, an interior designer, relocated to Indiana, combining their talents as they helped to run the furniture store that his father-in-law opened in the 1950s.

During his time in the industry, Peter compiled 38

a plethora of notes and drawings along the way, but it wasn’t until he was confined to a wheelchair, as his Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis advanced, that he was inspired to publish his work in the form of a furniture reference handbook, Western Furniture Reference Guide. Says Peter, “It had been a hobby of mine for many years, and I was thrilled to write [the book].”

Looking back on his days at Marianapolis, Peter credits the Marian Fathers with helping him to discover opportunities and “for pointing him towards the Dominican Fathers at Providence College,” where his journey continued to unfold. In addition to the foundational lesson learned after that long-ago second-place cross country finish, he is thankful for the lasting friendships formed at the School, noting that his “Marianapolis friends have supported [his] book and left the best reviews so far.”

To current Marianapolis students and young alums, Peter’s advice comes full circle: “Marianapolis taught me to explore [my] options and not to give up too soon — and for that I am grateful. Just do not give up. Follow your interests, and things will work out.”

IN MEMORIAM 1947: John J. Svagzdys, 95, passed away on January 20, 2021 at Linden Ponds Continuing Care in Hingham, MA. He was born on May 28, 1925 in Brockton, Massachusetts.

John was the son of the late Joseph M. Svagzdys of Sidabravas, Lithuania and Tekla A. (Rynshall) Svagzdys of Paterson, New Jersey. At Sacred Heart School he learned English and French, while at home Lithuanian was spoken. In 1942, at age 17, John left Brockton High School and enlisted in the US Navy. He served aboard the aircraft carrier USS Bennington in the Pacific theater during WWII. John completed his high school diploma at Marianapolis Preparatory School prior to obtaining a BA in Economics at Boston College.

In 1953, while 100% healthy, but hospitalized at Valley Forge Hospital as a precautionary measure because of a misread x-ray, he met his future wife Jean who was a nurse at the time. They were married in June the same year and settled in Brockton MA. While working as a management trainee at Shawmut Bank in Boston, John attended night classes at New England School of Law to earn his Juris Doctor. Although John passed the Massachusetts Bar exam, he instead pursued a career in banking. In 1960 he became the manager of the Brockton Credit Union. He was later promoted to CEO & continued in that position until his retirement in 1997.”Nurturing “the bank” became John’s lifelong passion and under his management, the BCU became a thriving financial institution which has since made a successful transition to a commercial bank and is now known as the Harbor One Bank.

John was a man of boundless energy. In addition to his passion for his work at the bank, he was a centerpiece of the civic community in and around Brockton. John served on the board of directors of the Brockton Hospital, Saint Joseph’s Nursing Home, The Credit Union League of Massachusetts, and the Brockton Rotary Club.

During his “free time”, Saturdays were devoted to maintaining numerous multi-family rental properties scattered around the city of Brockton, while Sunday was devoted to church and family. John had a lifelong passion for the ocean, loved swimming and boating and time with his family.

In 2006, John and Jean moved to Linden Ponds Senior Living in Hingham, Massachusetts. John was an active member of the Linden Ponds community and loved the many amenities offered, especially the pool and the close proximity to Nantasket beach.

John is predeceased by his loving wife Jean and sisters Veronica Shimkus and Anne Appleton. He is survived by his sisters Bernadette Gudas, Elena Shemeta and Elizabeth Boland; by his daughters Julie McCarthy, Marie Lindros, Cecilia Svagzdys and Jeanne Svagzdys, and his son, John Jr. and his wife Amber, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

1949: Leonard W. D’Errico of Briny Breezes, Florida, died March 29, 2021, at the age of 91. Beloved husband and soulmate of Barbara Nadeau D’Errico of 63 years. Loving father of Dino (Janet) of St. Cloud, FL; Diana (Andrew) Hauser of East Norwich, NY; Tony (Jenny) of Bonita Springs, FL; and Gina (Mike) Brennan of Orlando, FL. Adored Grandpa of Nicholas (Ashley) D’Errico, Michael (Chelsea) D’Errico, Nicole and Ryan Hauser, and Christina and Michael Brennan. Len also leaves behind a big family including many nieces and nephews. “La Famiglia!” was his favorite expression, as his family was his pride and joy.

Born in Providence, RI, he was the son of immigrant parents and one of 9 children. Recruited to Boston University, Len played football and then became the Assistant Coach, while obtaining his Masters in Physical Education. His career included teacher, coach, and Athletic Director at Spaulding H.S. in Rochester, NH; teacher and football coach at Oyster Bay H.S. in Oyster Bay, NY; and Defensive Coordinator at NY Institute of Technology in Brookville, NY. He was inducted into the Boston University Hall of Fame, the Oyster Bay High School Hall of Fame, and the Spaulding High School Hall of Fame. Len was also a member of the Italian American Citizens Club of Oyster Bay and the Knights of Columbus.

Len retired to Briny Breezes, Florida, where he was active in the Chiselers Club and was instrumental in building the Briny Breezes pool cabana. He had another small moment of fame, when he had a role in the movie, “In her Shoes.”

In addition to his family, Len was best known for his generosity and his passion for football, food, friends, and all things Italian. He had a big presence and an even bigger heart.

1956: James Vernon Beattie passed away on February 28, 2019 in Key Largo, Florida.

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IN MEMORIAM 1956: Francis A. “Frank” DiPippo, 83, of Bloomfield, loving husband of over 55 years to Carolyn “Cal” (Lang) DiPippo, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 7, 2021. Frank was born on May 16, 1937 in Torrington, son to the late Frank J. and Rose M. (DeDominicis) DiPippo.

Frank grew up in Torrington, attended local schools and was a graduate of Torrington High School where he was an outstanding athlete and the President of the Class of 1955. After a year at Marianapolis Preparatory School, Frank continued his education enrolling in Central Connecticut State University where he earned his bachelor’s degree in education. During those years, he enjoyed playing basketball and baseball for the schools, graduating in 1960. Upon his graduation from CCSU, Frank became a dedicated teacher with Bloomfield Public Schools impacting students in and out of the classroom for over 33 years. Frank’s passions centered around sports, both as an athlete and a coach. In the early 1970s, Frank enjoyed traveling the northeast playing semi-pro softball for the New Britain Mar Parks and coached several high school sports including basketball, baseball and golf for over 4 decades. He never missed an opportunity to play golf or watch his beloved Dodgers on the television all while sharing his knowledge with countless players, friends, family or whoever would listen. Frank’s greatest joy was spending time with his six granddaughters. He attended countless concerts, parades and sporting events and was a fixture at “his girl’s” basketball games for over 20 years. Grampy’s presence in their lives has been a gift they will always cherish. During the offseason, you could find him sitting by the pool, playing games, reading a mystery, eating ice cream or finishing crossword puzzles.

In addition to his wife, Frank is survived by his three children Amy Connors and her husband Edward of West Hartford, Andrew DiPippo of West Hartford and Francis DiPippo Jr. of Bloomfield; six grandchildren Alison, Haley and Delaney Connors and Kerrigan, Ella and Teagan DiPippo; a brother Fred DiPippo of Granby and a sister Carma LeTourneau and her husband Armand of Michigan. Frank was predeceased by his parents, many aunts, uncles, cousins and his niece, Michelle DiPippo Potter.

1956: Charles Maurice Shea was born May 8, 1939 in Willimantic, Connecticut. His parents Charles Timothy Shea, Helen Welch Shea, and a brother, Michael V. Shea predeceased him.

He passed away peacefully at home on August 20, 2020, from Parkinson’s disease. Charlie graduated from Fordham University in 1960 and while in New York ushered at the Metropolitan Opera which began a lifetime enthusiasm for opera.

Charlie graduated from Georgetown Law School in 1963 and began his law career at the office of the Comptroller of the Currency. In 1966 he became Regional Counsel for the Midwest region of the Comptroller’s office in Chicago.

He married Mary Gruenheck in 1967 in Longmeadow, Mass during the Blizzard of that year. The couple lived in Lincoln Park where their three children were born, Maura A. Shea, Charles M.B. Shea, and Julia Shea Hilmer. They were active in the Old Town Triangle and Art Fair in those early Chicago years.

Charlie served as the attorney for the Beverly Bank on Chicago’s south side making close friendships and business relationships which sustained his practice until retirement. He became involved with community banks in WI, IA, and IL where he served as a director.

The family moved to Wilmette in 1977 where he became active in local issues. He was a lifelong swimmer, global traveler, symphony, and opera enthusiast. He used to say a perfect Chicago weekend included the CSO, the Lyric Opera, and a Chicago Bears game.

He enthusiastically completed the Basic Program at the University of Chicago. Charlie was a longtime Cubs fan and enjoyed sharing tickets with friends. A devoted family man, Charlie’s kindness and humor endeared him to his many friends. We were blessed to share our lives with him.

1964: Richard “Ric” Carr, 76, of Rib Mountain, passed away on Wednesday, November 11, 2020, Veteran’s Day. Ric was born in Niagara Falls, New York on April 14, 1944, to the late Harold and Gertrude (Quester) Carr. He joined the United States Army in 1964 and served his country honorably until 1967 when he was discharged as a Sergeant. Ric was assigned to the 809th Engineer in Thailand where he was part of the effort to build the Freedom Highway. His military awards include the Expert Marksmanship and the National Defense Service Medals. Ric worked for PDM Bridge for almost 40 years, retiring as the Material Control manager. After retiring from PDM Bridge, Ric went to work for Lambs Fresh Meat Market part-time. He truly enjoyed working with the people that worked there.

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IN MEMORIAM Ric met, fell in love, and married Roseann “Rosie” Czechowicz on February 25, 1978. Together they raised five children, Lynn, Nadine, Michelle, Scott, and Tamara.

Ric always had a smile on his face and was always ready with a joke to share. He loved to go camping, boating, singing karaoke songs by Elvis Presley and Buddy Holly, and watching the Green Bay Packers with his family and friends. Ric was proud to have served his country, and he continued to serve his fellow veterans with the Man of Honor Society. He spent 15 years as a member of the Man of Honor Society, of those 15 years, he spent 6.5 years as the VP. He and Rosie were proud to be a member of an organization that gave so much back to the veterans. They could often be found volunteering for the Harley Raffle, the Ham Give-A-Way, Flag Raising Ceremonies, Memorial Day Parade, Flag Retirement Ceremonies, and the Awards and Christmas Banquet. Ric had a kind heart and would do anything for his family and friends. He truly was a man of honor in every aspect of his life. Most important to Ric was his family. He was a doting husband, a loving father, and a proud papa. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Ric is survived by his wife of 42 years, Rosie; his children, Lynn (Keith), Nadine (Terry), Michelle (Chris), Scott (Brenda), and Tamara (Carl); grandchildren, Dezarae (Timothy), Jared (Lily), Allyson, Alicia (Nick), Nathan (Becca), Elizabeth (Brad), Michael (Desi), Gerrick (Paige), Katelin (Spencer) Steven, Zachary, Makenzie, and Logan; great-grandchildren, Anastasia, Sophia, and Aubrey. He is further survived by his siblings, Dennis, Robert (Dawn), Timothy (Janice), Barbara Chapman, Gail Pendergast, Nancy (Terry) Hawes; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and brothers/sisters-in-law.

Ric was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Ella Kensinger, Catherine (Lester) Moeller, Warren (Carolyn), Patricia (James) Lundy, Harold (Shirley), and Terrance; sister-in-law, Barbara; his brother-in-law Richard; one grandchild, Nicole; and his three infant great-grandchildren, David, Jesse, and Madison.

The family wishes to thank the staff of the Aspirus Covid-ICU for the compassionate care they gave to Ric while he was in their care.

1968: Gregory J. Catsos, age 70, of New York, passed away Monday, December 2, 2019 at home in New York.

Gregory was born May 24, 1949 in New York City.

The following was written by Gregory’s classmates Bob Pratt ’68 and Paul Lango ’68: Before the fall of 1965, we didn’t even know he existed...and then, he arrived. He came in as a sophomore, from New York...the city. It didn’t take long to figure out, this was someone special!

The rest of what I’m about to tell you is only part of what makes up one of the most fascinating people I have ever met!

The first dormitory for Greg was St. Joe’s II. Entertainment, theatre, TV, motion pictures, radio and celebrity life was his forte and alter ego. Ask him anything...his answer would always amuse.

His impersonations were classic, but not from our times as teenagers, oh no, that would be too passé. He could do Fred Astaire, Ray Bolger...and, of course, Groucho! His Groucho was the best! His personalities were from our parents’ generation because that’s where he found the value...that’s where he was most comfortable. His characters were tried and true classic personalities that everyone knew...And he knew them well.

And then there were the celebrities...like Keith Richards. Catsos could sit and talk with Keith Richards...and become friends! I don’t think there are too many people that could hold Keith’s interest for very long, but Greg did. Greg also had a friendship with one of his neighbors, Eli Wallach, and apparently was assisting on a biographical work with him. This was just part of his work which also included FILMFAX, an entertainment industry magazine. As a contributor, one of his feature articles was an interview with Ward Kimball, a Walt Disney animator, responsible for the first feature-length animated film, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs!

At Marianapolis, Greg lent his style to the GOLDEN KNIGHT on many occasions as well as the LANCE. I would love to have recorded some of those late night editorial meetings with Greg around! They were not only interesting and thought provoking but hysterical as well, even by today’s standards. I can still picture him in his slightly oversized sport coat and baggy slacks, walking down one of the halls at Marianapolis...maybe talking to himself or reciting lines from some famous movie...on his way to class. Greg was many things...an actor, a singer, a musician, a comedian, an all around entertainer and a friend...a friend we greatly miss.

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IN MEMORIAM 1999: Stephen D. Chickering II, 39, of Poway, California passed away suddenly on February 7, 2021.

Steve was the beloved husband of Christina (Endriga) Chickering and father to his sweet daughter Cassidy.

Steve was the son of Stephen and Cheryl (Kilian) Chickering of Dudley, Massachusetts. Steve also leaves behind his loving brother Kyle, sister-in-law Kelsey, and niece Dorothea of Boston, Massachusetts.

He also leaves behind Teresa Endriga, Henry and Balbir Socorro, Albert and Maite Socorro, Thaddeus and Maria Endriga, many Aunts, Uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and many dear friends.

Steve was born in North Adams, MA in September of 1981 and was raised in Dudley, MA where he established his life-long love of golf at the Nichols College Golf Course and his passion for fishing at many local ponds with his Dad and Grandfather.

Steve attended school in Dudley and graduated from Marianapolis Preparatory School in Thompson, CT. Marianapolis was where Steve met his adoring wife Christina. He also graduated from San Diego Golf Academy in Myrtle Beach, SC with a degree in Golf Course Management.

Steve moved to the San Diego area in 2003 where Christina and Steve, and later Cassidy, made their home for the last 17 1/2 years. The San Diego area was the ideal place for Steve, where he could enjoy many overnight fishing expeditions, daytime fishing adventures with friends while always in pursuit of tuna. Steve also made sure that, even when Cassidy was very young, she too would learn how to fish. They took several day trips together. The California sunshine allowed Steve to play golf whenever the opportunity presented itself.

Steve worked in the Telecom Systems Infrastructure industry, starting at Berg Electric as an Installation Technician, and worked his way up to a Project Manager position. He later carried that knowledge to Baker Electric. Throughout his career, he made numerous long-standing friendships. Through Cassidy’s love of dance, Steve made another circle of friends that were called the “Dance Dads”. They loved to hang out and support their daughters from the prop areas backstage. They even formed a softball team “The Bad News Bears”. All of these friendships meant the world to Steve.

Former Faculty: Sr. M. Consolata Paglia, FMH, a daughter of Our Lady of the Garden, passed away peacefully on September 8, 2020, at the Convent of the Daughters of Our Lady of the Garden in Middletown, CT at the age of 83. She was born in the Boville Erica, in the Province of Frosinone, Italy, on August 17, 1937. On March 6, 1954, at the age of 17, she entered the Daughters of Our Lady of the Garden in Rome, Italy, professing her First Vows on September 12, 1954, and Perpetual Vows on September 8, 1962, in Rome, Italy. At the time of her death, she had been professed for 66 years in religious life. She entered into eternal life on the Feast of the Birth of Mary, one of the congregational feasts of her order, and the 68th anniversary of her Final Profession.

Sr. M. Consolata Paglia was one of the first five missionaries of her Order to arrive in the United States from Italy in 1962 and she became a naturalized citizen in 1968. In her 58 years of ministry here in the United States, she served first as a dietician and chef at Marianapolis Prep School in Thompson, CT. In 1971 she was transferred to Gianelli’s Early Learning Center in Middletown, CT where she served both her religious Sisters and the children at the Center up to the time of her death. Thousands of the children who attended Gianelli’s remember her and the delicious foods she prepared for them. She dedicated these years of her life in service of God’s little ones with exquisite care.

Sr. M Consolata was predeceased by her parents, Gaetano and Paolina Paglia, and her 4 brothers and 4 sisters.

She is survived by several nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, as well as numerous cousins, both in Italy and New York. She is lovingly remembered by former students and their families, her many friends, and especially by the members of her religious family, the Daughters of Our Lady of the Garden in Middletown (CT), Johnston (RI), and Staten Island (NY). The religious sisters of her community are grateful for the care given to Sr. Consolata by many, especially Franciscan Health and Hospice Care in the last weeks of her life.

What Will Your Legacy Be?

By joining the Marianapolis Planned Giving Society you will help secure a high-quality education for our students.

There are a number of ways to give and tailor your planned gift to fit your financial situation.

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WAYS TO GIVE:

BENEFITS:

• An outright gift of cash

• A charitable tax deduction as well as possible capital gains tax savings

• Name Marianapolis as a remainder beneficiary on a trust

• Annual income for the rest of your life through a charitable remainder trust

• Create an endowment in honor of someone

• Income or estate tax benefits

• Add Marianapolis to your will

• Financial and tax savings for your estate and beneficiaries

Mark R. Russell ’67 Marianapolis has named its business and entrepreneurship track the Mark R. Russell ’67 Center for Business & Entrepreneurship in honor of the late Mark. R. Russell.

1967: Mark R. Russell, 71, passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends at his home in Spring Lake, New Jersey. Mark is survived by his loving wife, Joanne, his mother, Evelyn, his two children, Jessica and Evan (Kristen), step-children, Brian and Taylor Wilson, as well as his younger brother, Jesse (Sunny). He was the beloved grandfather of Juliana, Meghan, Benjamin, and Kathryn.

Mark was born on March 30, 1949, in Hartford, Connecticut to Aldo Russell, a US Army Captain and accountant, and Evelyn Richards, a gifted musician, and educator. Mark quickly grew to become an ambitious young man. Feeling that education was most important to meet his academic and career goals, at the age of 14 Mark attended Marianapolis Preparatory School, Thompson Connecticut. He was successful in this venture, as he was in most things he set his mind to. After completing high school at Marianapolis, Mark went on to graduate from Marquette University and earned a Masters of Health Administration degree from Washington University School of Medicine. He soon established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the world of behavioral health and hospital administration. Mark’s confidence, decisiveness, and resolute nature helped him to rise in the business world. Quickly attaining executive level status, he led an investor team to the acquisition of the largest private psychiatric facility in the US. He then went on to become owner/operator of behavioral health services and advisor to the middle market equity funds sector.

In addition to being a savvy businessman, Mark had an unusual talent for being able to retain and recall minute details in areas of trivia, geography, sports, history, and current events. He had a lifelong thirst for knowledge, was an avid reader, an enthusiastic sports fan, and enjoyed the game of golf. Mark spent a lifetime of summers at a cottage on Lake Chargoggagogg in Webster, Massachusetts. There, he and his family created countless memories. Later in life, Mark donated time, expertise, and financial support to the Webster Lake Association as well as other philanthropic organizations.

Mark remained an active part of the Marianapolis community throughout his life. There, he served on the Board of Directors and taught classes in the business school. To honor his dedication and legacy, Marianapolis plans to dedicate its school of business and entrepreneurship in his name. This is the first time in the nearly 100 year existence of the school that such an honor has been bestowed. Mark’s family kindly requests that, in lieu of flowers, memorials be offered to the school he loved so much.

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Welcome Class of 2025 Congratulations to this year’s Trinity Foundation Scholarship winners: Kira Gillette | Lindsey Paradise | Madeline Joyce | Vincent Vo | Miles Wesolowski | Olivia Andrade | Caitlin Diaz

THE FUND FOR MARIANAPOLIS

This year has been filled with changes, and the Marianapolis community came together and prevailed. The Fund for Marianapolis helps to support our community by making the school more affordable though financial aid, attracting and retaining the best faculty and staff, maintaining a safe and beautiful campus, and so much more. This year, the Fund helped to enhance curriculum by adding Clear Touch Boards to classrooms, with plans to expand the Innovation Lab in the future.

With your support, we raised $22,771 during 1926 Minutes of Giving! Those donations go to support our students, faculty and staff, and campus. Thank you again to all who donated during this time and throughout the year.

Go to marianapolis.org/giving to see how your donations support Marianapolis and ways to give.

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UMNI AL E P

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Alumni Weekend

From the comfort of living rooms, home offices, and even sunny backyards, alums gathered together for a virtual Alumni Weekend celebration on May 14-16. The weekend provided an opportunity to catch up with old friends and favorite faculty members, participate in a variety of live and on-demand activities, and engage with Joe Hanrahan, Head of School, to learn about recent happenings on campus and around the world.

All weekend long, alums and members of the wider Marianapolis community participated in a virtual Fun Run, taking advantage of the beautiful weather while engaging in a bit of friendly competition. Participants took to their local tracks and trails with the goal of running, walking, or biking the most miles throughout the weekend -- and, decked out in Marianapolis gear, showed plenty of Golden Knight spirit along the way! Science department faculty member Dr. Scott Michaels biked 187.65 miles over three days to take home first place.

Friday evening saw alums, faculty, and staff face off in a heated round of virtual trivia, where movie buffs and geography whizzes alike put their skills to the test. Saturday afternoon began with a discussion of Angie Thomas’ novel, The Hate U Give, led by Drs. Joseph Parodi-Brown and Edward Sembor. Through the lens of the novel, the group delved into topics including race and inequality, police violence, and the lived experiences of BIPOC. Following the book discussion, alums, once again sporting their Marianapolis gear, attended Evening Gathering, where Jennifer Trainor ’91, Alumni Council President, expressed her pride in the School “for continuing to send capable leaders out into the world,” and encouraged alums to stay connected to each other and to Marianapolis. Head of School Joe Hanrahan addressed the group, beginning on a light note as he welcomed guests to the first-ever ‘shoes optional’ alumni event. Hanrahan noted that, while Marianapolis adapts to the changing wants and needs of the community year over year, “the character- and values-based education” and the School’s core values “remain anchored and steadfast.” He discussed efforts to continue building and growing a truly inclusive community on campus and beyond, work undertaken to secure NEASC accreditation, and the opening of SNA Marianapolis International School – Bien Hoa Campus in Vietnam.

After a Q&A session, happy hour, featuring cocktail and mocktail recipes created by alumni-owned businesses, provided an opportunity for Golden Knights to unwind and catch up with old friends and former classmates.

Throughout the weekend, an on-demand, student-led tour provided glimpses into life at Marianapolis, allowing alums to virtually revisit favorite spaces and take a closer look at all that has changed since their time on campus. Although alums were unable to gather in person, after a year filled with challenges and unknowns, Alumni Weekend provided a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with friends and faculty. We look forward to welcoming alums back to campus in person during Alumni Weekend 2022!

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Save the Date!

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May 20 - 22