2021 Beacon Commencement

COMMENCEMENT

MAGAZINE

BEACON THE

President & Head of School

MARIANDL HUFFORD SUMMER 2022

Dear Spartan Families,

Welcome to the inaugural edition of our Commencement Magazine - a celebration of the end-of-year milestones and the graduation ceremony that was one for the books!

Despite a well-executed rehearsal at the Arsht Center on June 2, our previous plans went the way of the tropical storm that arrived in S. Florida late on June 3.

And while some doubted we could celebrate the class of 2022 in deserving style with only a few hours notice, their graduation ceremony was full of the joy, Spartan Pride, and excitement of any previous celebrations for any previous classes.

This publication mostly features the class of 2022 and the many ways in which we have honored its members, but you can also learn more in these pages about some new traditions for Commencement going forward and about our alumni and the happy reunions that were sprinkled throughout the May calendar.

To the newly admitted alumni, the class of 2022 - on behalf of your teachers and administrators, I wish you lots of happiness and success in all your future endeavors. And as told you in my Commencement welcome: come home to us when you need to, in times of challenge, and when you want to, in times of celebration. Being a member of the Spartan community does not end today - it merely enters a new chapter.

With Spartan Pride,

Mariandl Hufford President and Head of School

“ Being a member of the Spartan community does not end today - it merely enters a new chapter. ”

12 , 13 , and 14 YEAR CLUBS

Through the 12, 13 and 14 year clubs, Miami Country Day School celebrates the members of the graduating class of 2022 that have spent nearly their entire academic career as a Spartan. These students walked onto campus as young children eager to learn and now enter the world as global citizens and young adults of substance poised to make a difference.

12 YEAR CLUB

Jake Grossman

Nicolle Renteria

Sofia Nelcha

Simone Hart

Tamara Bhardwaj

Alexandra Ataman

Ben Malamed

Jasper Feldman

Daniel Tzalik

Chloe Bensabat

Jeff Jeffries

Luke Nixdorf

Davis Lubetsky

Carly Williams

Michael Port Sophia Tilis

Patrick Lovelace

Masha Kambolin

Eliette Yammine

Thomas van der Leegte

Sophia Brod

KINDER to COLLEGE

Kinder to College pairs each member of the early childhood program with a senior buddy from the graduating class.

The Kinder to College program emphasizes community at MCDS by creating a unified family of students. The seniors serve as mentors to the youngest members of the school community as the students meet throughout the year to develop a love of reading, art, community service, music, play and other fun activities.

The younger members share unforgettable moments with the seniors as they perform at the yearly sing-along and take part in other milestone events.

Kinder to College serves as a wonderful way for the younger students and seniors to learn something new from each other and create strong connections.

GRADUATE FEATURES

VALEDICTORIAN

Michael Joseph Puglise

The Valedictorian of the Class of 2022, Michael Joseph Puglise, opened his speech by asking the class of 2022 to, “Take in the moment, enjoy it, we made it.”

He went on to thank the class leaders Mikey Port and Morgan Loeb for helping the class leave their mark on the school, literally and figuratively. He thanked MCDS for providing the class a stress-free environment and support, as well as helping them grow into better speakers and listeners.

Michael reflected on the memories that the class shared and how they had many moments of community and togetherness. He called on the class to hold on to what has helped them preserve. He explained, “Whatever it is called; resilience, patience, flexibility, or determination,

recognize that it has made us stronger and will helps us make our mark in the world.”

Michael also told the class to, “Take advantage of every opportunity”, especially as they embark on a larger journey. He told the class to seize the day and continue even if they fail. Michael acknowledged that, “Exploration and joint experiences with others that will truly define our outlook.” Along with encouraging the class to experiment and discover themselves, he also told them to remain curious.

Michael reassured the class that, “By stepping outside your comfort zone, you are opening yourselves up to life and its unimaginable possibilities.”

Additionally, he reminded the class of 2022 that they can make a difference by being leaders in their communities. He stressed that “the future of our

world truly needs us and it’s up to us to change it for the better.”

“Don’t hesitate to defend your beliefs, take on new challenges, and see any missteps as opportunities for growth.”

He then told the class not to get distracted by material things, but instead focus on living a purposeful life. Michael lovingly ended his speech by reminding the graduates, “Don’t lose sight of the finish line and keep pushing to the very end. When the odds are set against you, strive to be those odds. Prove them wrong. Write your own story. Follow your own dreams. And if change is a matter of chance, take that chance.”

SALUTATORIAN

Salutatorian Malini

Kamlani opened her speech by referencing fractions. She shared that fractions are the first math concepts that she remembered crying over. She comically reminded the rest of the class of 2022 how confusing learning fractions were and how words like greater than or less than just made everything more complicated. Although Malini expressed how hard it was to understand fractions, she connected them to the class of 2022. She considered the class as “parts of whole”, meaning that every single student is an invaluable part of the whole class of 2022. She said that,

Malini Kamlani

“108 of us are part of the whole group, a community that has grown, worked, played, and celebrated together for the past several years.”

Malini celebrated the different talents of the class and recognized students for the activities they were involved in at MCDS. She then pointed out the many opportunities that MCDS gave the students in order to express themselves and the memories the class shared during their years at MCDS.

Malini then spoke about

Malini then spoke about how the class of 2022 will disperse and how they will become a part of a new whole and new communities. She said that the class, “Will take our strengths, our memories, and everything we have learned together at MCDS, particularly the beauty of what it means to contribute to and be a part of a community.”

Malini said that the class of 2022 is the whole child, meaning that they fulfill the MCDS philosophy, and that is what makes

them special. She then thanked all parents, the amazing teachers, the college counseling team, and a special thanks for the class’s sponsor, Ms. Schreffler.

She finished her speech with calling the class of 2022 a fraction because, “A fraction of this class of 2022 who with the help and guidance of all of you here today have become so much more than one whole.”

CLASS PRESIDENT

Class president, Morgan Haley Loeb reminded the class of 2022 of how far they have come and how every end leads to a new beginning. She told her classmates that they need to embrace the changes to come because they have mastered so many challenges before, “One of you sitting here today may be the next Steve Jobs, celebrity, political leader, model, athlete, or even the first person on Mars.” Morgan went on to reassure the class that it is okay to fear what is to come but advised not to let the fear control them. She told the class that, “Each of you has the potential to change the world. Never turn down an opportunity. Never miss out on an experience. Never give up. Never ignore your gut. Follow your passion. Live life to

the fullest and reach for the stars.”

Morgan said that she knew the class will go on to do great things and to leave their mark on the world. Morgan reminisced about the class’s shared funny moments and promised that their memories will stay with them forever. Morgan told the class, “Whether you are left thrilled for your future or saddened by the end of this huge chapter of our lives, appreciate the long, lasting memories and love that we all share as the graduating class of 2022.”

Morgan Haley Loeb

AWARDS & HONORS

ACADEMIC IMPROVEMENT AWARD

Director of the Upper School Jill Robert excitedly presented the Academic Improvement Award to Andrea Holder. The Academic Improvement Award was created to honor the overall journey of a student through their four years in the Upper School. The award focuses on growth and accomplishments to highlight the importance

of consistent persistence and reflection for improvement over time.

Ms. Robert noted, although Andrea had a rocky start in the 9th grade, she was able to improve and contribute to the community as she grew in the Upper School. Andrea became a student that challenged herself in all areas.

Connecting Andrea’s talented dancing to her progress in school, Ms. Robert quoted Martha Graham, an American dancer and choreographer, “Great dancers are not great because of their technique, they are great because of their passion.”

Andrea is passionate about everything she does and continues to show her compassion and hard work. Seeing her grow into an amazing student, Ms. Robert had no doubt that Andrea will accomplish whatever she puts her mind to with great agility and grace.

Andrea Holder

SENIOR ALUMNI AWARD

Sofia Nelcha

The Chairman of the Board of Trustees, James W. Moore, ’65 was honored to award the 2022 Senior Alumni Award to Sofia Nelcha. The Senior Alumni Award was established in 1996 by the MCDS Alumni Association to recognize a member of the senior class who has exhibited a commitment to and concern for the well-being of the student body as well as the school community.

Sofia Nelcha was chosen as the recipient of this award because of her high standard of excellence and her embodiment of the school’s core values that she maintained for the 12 years that she was at MCDS. Class Sponsor Ms. Schreffler said that Sofia, “Has the unique ability of being both

the leader and the participant at the same time, while simultaneously maintaining control over the entire production.”

Sofia’s character was also highlighted by Upper School Spanish Teacher & Student Government Advisor, Ms. Kelly, who worked closely with Sofia during her time at MCDS. Ms. Kelly said that Sofia, “Is one of the finest stars to ever passthrough Country Day – She is fast, strong, stunning, and literally brilliant. She is a voice of reason and a constant team player.”

Ms. Robert, the Upper School Director, also praised Sofia for her leadership. Ms. Robert called Sofia the anchor of the class of 2022. “She has been a central source of support and stability through the triumphs and challenges that come with any senior year, and especially this one.” As Sofia is now a part of MCDS Alumni, all faculty and staff know she will go on to do great things.

TRUSTEES’ AWARD

The Trustees’ Award for General Excellence recognizes the graduating senior who exemplifies excellence in academics, citizenship, responsibility, and character to the highest degree. This award goes to the all-around, most outstanding senior.

This year, for the first time in over thirty years, the faculty has chosen to honor two outstanding seniors.

One recipient had been a student at MCDS since kindergarten, the other since middle school. Both have made an indelible imprint on our community, in the

classroom and out.

Among the many things that set our recipients apart is their selflessness. One has worked extensively with RAICES, an organization that works with newly immigrated Venezuelan refugees. The other set a record two years ago by becoming the youngest person to push a quadriplegic person in a marathon. Both are compassionate young people who are steadfast in their concern for others and their ability to translate that concern into action.

Both recipients are also committed to social justice and have done their part to cultivate equity and inclusion through their participation in Girl Up, Plan (Plan Latin American Network), JSU, and CAUSE, respectively. Their fierce dedication to community service earned them both a position on our Community Service Board and a nomination for the prestigious Silver Knight Award.

Intellectually curious and hardworking, this year’s recipients have also achieved success in the classroom. Together, they have taken a combined total of 18 AP and 22 honors courses. They thrive in academically challenging settings and flourish in environments where they can put the skills that they have mastered, as well as their passions, into practice. For one recipient this has taken place on the shores of Lake Geneva, for the other on the coastlines of New England. Globally minded and keenly interested in the world around them, both students have earned

the Global Studies Diploma Endorsement for their commitment to global issues.

This year’s recipients are kind-hearted and generous; they are trustworthy and loyal, and they are disciplined and steadfast in their desire to make a difference. Indeed, this year’s recipients are exceptional young people with auspicious futures.

As they prepare to embark on the next leg of their academic journeys—one to the University of California Berkeley, the other to Barnard College, there is no doubt that they will continue to leave their marks, effect change, and to make the Miami Country Day community proud.

It was with great pleasure that on behalf of the Board of Trustees for Miami Country Day School Chairman James W. Moore, ’65, presents the Trustees’ Award for General Excellence to Isabel Bravo-Contreras and Davis Lubetsky.

Davis Lubetsky

SILVER KNIGHT NOMINEES

The Miami Herald’s Silver Knight award honors outstanding high school seniors for their academic excellence and passion for community service. Students are evaluated based on the following criteria: community service, achievements, and character. The two major factors that are weighed are the consistency and lasting impact of the service. Other factors that are considered are independent thinking, creative problem solving, leadership in getting others involved, and perseverance in overcoming challenges.

Students demonstrate achievement in one of the fifteen categories: Art, Athletics, Business, Digital and Interactive Media, Drama, English Literature, General Scholarship, Journalism Mathematics, Music and Dance, Science, Social Science, Speech, Vocational Technical, and World Languages. Over one hundred public, private, and parochial schools in Miami-Dade County compete for this prestigious award.

Seven members of the MCDS class of 2022 were recognized for their community service projects: Sophia Brod (Business), Isabel Bravo- Contreras (World Languages), Malini Kamlani (Music and Dance), Davis Lubetsky (Athletics), Sabrina Morata (Art), Joshua Respler (Social Science), and Carly Williams (English). Congratulations to all our Spartan nominees!

Sophia Brod brought the clothing company, Goodhood Club, that gives back to those with cancer, to MCDS in 2019. Sophia was motivated by her cousin, Eloise, a Hodgkins Lymphoma survivor and the creator of the clothing brand “GoodHood Club.” The club sold crew neck sweaters to all Miami Country Day School faculty and staff and 50% of the proceeds went directly to the Childhood Cancer Project, an organization that raises money for childhood cancer research.

with and help refugees fleeing the humanitarian crisis in Venezuela.

Miami marathon while pushing Kerry Gruson, a quadriplegic, in her wheelchair through the entire 26.2-mile course.

profit that offers a variety of enrichment and connection opportunities to set all students on a path to success, since he was a freshman. Although Joshua did not have much prior experience with children, he used his ingenuity and skills to implement the goal of the program and make a lasting impact on the children. Joshua continues to work with Achieve Miami and plans to start a fishing club.

Malini Kamlani

Since her freshman year Malini has been diligently building, We Dance for Change (WDFC), an organization that inspires social change through dance. Malini’s hard work resulted in WDFC becoming a nonprofit organization and has helped WDFC produce several successful dance productions that were virtual and in-person. WDFC has focused on climate change and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and is moving forward to issues of gun violence.

Sabrina Morata has worked with Days for Girls,or DfG, an international organization whose mission is to increase access to menstrual care and education by developing partnerships, recruiting and mobilizing volunteers, and creating sustainable and lifesaving solutions to finally break the stigma and limitations for women worldwide. Sabrina has made a difference with DfG as a certified Health Ambassador locally and internationally in countries like Ecuador and Cuba by leading educational health seminars and by distributing DfG kits of reusable feminine hygiene products.

Isabel Bravo-Contreras first truly entered the world of service when she started working with Refugee and Immigrant Center for Education and Legal Services Venezolanas her freshman year. What started off as sorting donations on the weekends ended with Isa becoming a weekly volunteer at Raíces through all four years of high school – helping translate, organize supplies, and meet with families. From creating care packages during Covid-19 to working firsthand with children who came to the organization, with Raíces, Isa has been able to connect

Davis Lubetsky began his service journey in 2016 when a close friend was diagnosed with osteosarcoma. Because of his love for running and the platform it gave him, Davis knew he could help his friend and others by becoming the captain of Outrunning Pediatric Cancer, a program that raises funds by running races. In the past seven years the team has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for pediatric cancer research. Davis has also taken racing to a new level as he ran the

Sabrina also became a board member of Girl Up/F.I.R.E. and worked to establish a formal partnership with DfG so that the members of Girl Up/F.I.R.E. could begin direct fundraising and hosting in-school educational events.

Carly Williams began working with Achieve Miami when she was in the 8th grade. As she worked with the children, Carly formed a special connection with her little buddy Allison. The bond inspired Carly to continue to serve and become the President of the Achieve Miami club at MCDS. She has helped little buddies improve their reading and writing skills, as well as planned holiday gift bags for over 250 families that attend Achieve Miami food drives. This year, Carly has brought and initiated the pilot program to MCDS, which includes a pen pal project, adopting a class, and holiday activity project.

Congratulations to Davis Lubetsky who received an Honorable Mention for his service project in the Athletics category. We are so proud of Davis and all of our Silver Knight nominees for their hard work and leadership in the community.

Joshua Respler has been working with Achieve Miami, an education non-

congratulates THE CLASS OF 2022

Dear graduates,

The Country Day community has admired your strength, intellectual curiosity, and commitment to your education during these unprecedented times. You have shown us resilience in the face of challenge and have done so with good character, while practicing our Core Values of Purpose, Honor, Respect, Wisdom, and Compassion. Your community is extremely proud of you. Class of 2022, you will forever be in our hearts.

Abily, Kiyann

Babil, Ethan

Baksis, Ilay

Bensabat, Chloe

Bergman, Chloe

Bernstein, Michael

Bhardwaj, Tamara

Brauer, Joaquin

Braverman, Daniel Braverman, Steven

Bravo-Contreras, Isabel

Brod, Sophia

Cardenas, Armando

Cariglio, Jessica Carrafelli, Riccardo

Cartledge, Chloe

Casas, Juanpablo

Chemla, Lucas

Clarke, Ryan

Custodio, Renan

Daiberl, Sofie

Deniz, Efe

Depradine, Robert

Donayre, Luca

Dunham, Estella

Eismont, Austin

Estupinan, Daniel

Feldman, Jasper

Ferrari, Silvana

Gabrielli Tangioni, Gabriela

Garcia, Jose

Gaudet, Noah

Gebbia, Mysteri

Geiger, Mika

Germeus, Eric

Goihman, Daniela

Goldberg, Jake Goncalves, Oscar Grant, Samantha Grendene, Luca Grossman, Jake

Hare, Jacob

Hart, Simone

Hodes, Rachel

Holder, Andrea Iera, Lukas

Jeffries, Jeff

Kambolin, Maria

Kamlani, Malini

Kleinberger, Dylan

Koch, Tyler

Kodsi, Samantha

Kohen, Isidore

Lardi, Nina

Lin, Yixin

Loeb, Morgan

Lopez, Juan Pablo

Lovelace, Patrick

Lubetsky, Davis

Machado Rusconi, Pedro

Mack, Torrence Jr.

Malamed, Benjamin

Mander, Maximo

Marquez, Miranda

Marzilli, Lorenzo

Mateo, Sofia

Merlos, Matheus

Morata, Sabrina

Muniz Rodriguez, Ana Laura

Nelcha, Sofia

Nixdorf, Luke

Pacheco, Marco

Pantin Escudero, Gerardo

Pantin Escudero, Marcel

Petukhov, Oleg

Port, Michael

Puglise, Michael

Renteria, Nicolle

Respler, Joshua

Richardson, Ryan

Roberts, Gavin

Rosenberg, Sophia

Rosenbloom, Samantha

Russell, Jaden

Sastre, Connor

Simmons, Tia’

Tilis, Sophia

Torres, Isabella

Touret, Julia

Tzalik, Daniel

Urbina, Rafael

Van Der Leegte, Thomas

Vara, Nina

Verkholaz, Lainey

Vigilante, Sophia

Williams, Carly

Yammine, Eliette

*Abuin, Sasha

*Anderson, Christopher

*Ataman, Alexandra

*Ataman, Maria

*Batchelder, Blake

*Destri, Victor

*Gill, Sophie

*Kahan, Julian

*Luciano, Milan

*Svanidze, Alex

*Yamin, Matthew

*not pictured

Every student. Every day. Everywhere.

MIAMI COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

“

COLLEGE ACCEPTANCE LIST

Bard College

Barnard College

Boston College

Boston University

Case Western Reserve University

The College of the Florida Keys

Colorado State University

Cornell University

Duke University

Everglades University

Florida International University

Florida Polyteching University

Florida State University

Fordham University

George Washington University

IE University

Indiana University Bloomington

Istituto Marangoni

Lenoir-Rhyne University

Miami Dade College

New York University

Northeastern University

Nova Southeastern University

The Ohio State University

Pace University

Parsons School of Design at The New School

Pennsylvania State University

Rutgers University

everywhere.

CELEBRATION OF END-OF-YEAR MILESTONES

congratulates

Being a member of the Spartan community does not end today - it merely enters a new chapter. ”

Santa Clara University

Savannah College of Art and Design

Seattle University

St. Thomas University

Syracuse University

Temple University

Tufts University

Tulane University of Louisiana

University of Arizona

University of California, Berkeley

University of California, Los Angeles

University of Central Florida

University of Chicago

University of Colorado Boulder

University of Denver

University of Florida

University of Maryland, College Park

University of Miami

University of Michigan

University of South Florida

University of Southern California

The University of Tampa

The University of Texas at Austin

University of Vermont

Vassar College

Villanova University

Williams College

University of Wisconsin, Madison

NEW TRADITIONS

SUMMER 2022

“A fraction of this class of 2022 who with the help and guidance of all of you here today have become so much more than one whole.”

CONGRATULATIONS

EVERY STUDENT. EVERY DAY. EVERYWHERE.

Take in the moment, enjoy it, we made it.

THE CLASS OF 2022

CLASS OF 2022 moments

Scan here to access a special video that highlights the many special moments the class of 2022 shared together. The entire commencement/ baccalaureate ceremony is included as well.

EVERY STUDENT. EVERY DAY. EVERYWHERE.

Miami Country Day School

MCDS 20

Take in the moment, enjoy it, we made it.

22

FROM THE RIGHT FIT TO THE RIGHT FUTURE. Every Student. Every Day. Everywhere.

Never give up. Never ignore your gut. Follow your passion.

NEW TRADITIONS

Introduced at the class of 2022 commencement

The Spartan Community holds many traditions near and dear to its heart and this year two new traditions that emphasize the school’s lifelong commitment to its community were introduced at commencement.

We hope you will reflect on this video with fond memories for years to come.

MCDS alumni with a graduating senior now have the honor of participating in the commencement ceremony and presenting their child with their diploma.

In addition, the class of 2022 kicked off the new tradition whereby an alumnus or alumna will be honored and featured as the commencement speaker. Once a Spartan, Always a Spartan!

Upper School Mathematics Teacher

Class of 2022 Sponsor

Assistant Cross Country Coach Reflections from Class Sponsor

CEREMONY SPEECHES

Gabrielle Schreffler thanked everyone who helped in the journey of the class of 2022. From Christine Chancy, Marilyn Greenfield, Amanda Schouten, Caryn Lubetsky, to Jill Robert, and the team of advisors, Ms. Schreffler stated that she would not have been able to accomplish what she had without their help. She then moved on to address the students and described the class of 2022 as “unconventional”. Ms. Schreffler said that the class of 2022 differs from others because they

know how to survive. She remembered the Circle F Dude Ranch survival course the students did back in 2018 and related it to how they made their own survival course in adjusting to different changes due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Ms. Schreffler joked about all the students have learned within pop culture and the antics which made them a truly original class. She then went on to recognize the accomplishments of the class and how they had achieved impressive feats. Because of the

class of 2022’s strength and survival skills, Ms. Schreffler created a Class of 2022 Survival Guide and explained that the guide, “Is full of advice, celebrations, and other well-wishes that she hopes act as a resource in their next steps.”

Above all, she hoped that the book brought the class joy and reminded them how, the faculty and staff of MCDS,

“Will always be their Spartan family.”

To end her speech, Ms. Schreffler referenced the rock band Fall Out Boy and said, “Thanks for the Memories.” She expressed her pride and urged the graduates to, “Go out there and show the world how unconventional you all are.”

JILL ROBERT

MARIANDL HUFFORD

Head of Upper School, Jill Robert, compared the looming tropical storm to the class of 2022. She described how tropical storms are strong, just like the graduates. that tropical storms bring renewal and change, just as the class of 2022 will no doubt change the world.

Ms. Robert then went on to introduce Michael Puglise, the valedictorian, and Malini Kamlani, the salutatorian, and proudly stated that they,

“Are sure to be change makers as they pursue higher education and use their knowledge, skills, and compassion to make the world better.”

President and Head of School, Mariandl Hufford, celebrated and bid a fond farewell for now to the graduating class of 2022. Despite the weather conditions that caused the graduation to be held a day early, Ms. Hufford ensured that the ceremony was filled with joy and adoration. Ms. Hufford applauded the students for their community service and told them she hoped they would, “Remember that, in this world, what brings us together is much greater than what divides us. Just as was the case for you as a class.”

Ms. Hufford urged the class to remain tenacious

and expressed her hope that they, “Will continue to want to debate with others the perspectives and opinions you hold dear - and that you are willing to consult others’ perspectives and be open to testing your own.”

She also urged the graduates to remain as compassionate to everyone, as they have been at MCDS. She told them to,“Find that kindness and compassion, grow their own hearts, and their own fulfillment.”

Ms. Hufford asked the class to look back at their time at MCDS, “And revel in the times you were

stretched and grew, for those are the times you will feel the greatest sense of pride and they will remind you, the next time you have a hill to climb, that you can do this.” She told the class that they are always welcome and that they will always have support from MCDS. Ms. Hufford invited the class of 2022 and hoped that the students, “Come home to MCDS when you need to, in times of challenge, and when you want to, in times of celebration. Being a member of the Spartan community does not end today - it merely enters a new chapter.”

Ms. Hufford shared her final hope for the class of 2022, that, “It has been my personal privilege to watch you grow and thrive. Continue to live your life with purpose and know that the entire MCDS community will always be here for you and we all cannot wait to see what amazing things you do next.”

Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senior Class: I charge you, as you leave Miami Country Day School, to remember that you are educated; it is your duty to seek wisdom and truth. To remember that you are privileged and that it is your duty to serve. To remember the values you have learned here, it is your duty to live by them. And remember your friends…those who leave with you and those of us who remain behind. ”

Chief Student Experience Officer

Upper School Director

President & Head of School Commencement Address

speaker

ALUMNI

ELI LESSER

Eli J. Lesser is Executive Director of the Wharton Global Youth Program at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. He leads a suite of programming that provides pre-collegiate students and teachers worldwide with access to the knowledge of the Wharton faculty and research centers. His work focuses on developing new models for student mobility and helping create access points to higher education for individuals of all ages.

MCDS alumni Eli J. Lesser was the first to address a graduating class at MCDS as a part of the new alumni commencement speaker program. Mr. Lesser highlighted the strength of the class of 2022 and noted that, despite needing to adjust their high-school experience in the face of a global pandemic, “… that they had a Country Day experience, a school that taught and expected them to bring their whole self.” He noted that the collective strength of this class and their connections allowed them to excel individually and as one.

Mr. Lesser noted that while years had passed since his graduation, the strengths of MCDS remained constant, the incomparable faculty and programming. He asked the graduates to take the time to thank the

teachers who supported them in and out of the classroom and reflected fondly on the teachers who had a lasting impact on his life. Mr. Lesser shared that, the teachers, just like the students, were their full selves at MCDS because,

“They did not separate themselves from what they were teaching to how they taught the class of 2022, whether in a formal class setting or a discussion, even if you are not in their class.”

Mr. Lesser encouraged the graduates “to take the lessons of learning as the whole self they were taught at Country Day as the first step on a learning journey.” He reminded the class of 2022 that regardless of their plans, learning will continue and that they should build upon what they learned as MCDS students.

“The teachers at Country Day…formed the basis of this learning, but they have been joined by friends, professors, and co-workers, all of whom played a role and taught me.”

Mr. Lesser reminded the graduates “the experiences they had at Country Day are theirs to carry with them, just as the people they have connected with and learned from will be with them as they move forward.” Just as the class of 2022 stayed connected during their time at MCDS and have been their whole selves, Mr. Lesser’s final advice to the graduates was to use what they have been taught, rely on those who supported them, and learn with them as they take their next step of their learning journey.

ALEX DE CARVALHO

Alex de Carvalho lived in numerous countries during the first decade of his life. His father’s career as a diplomat brought Alex and his family to Miami when he was twelve years old. Alex entered Miami Country Day School as a freshman in the Upper School and found his forever home. Alex spent his high school career at Country Day and is a proud member of the class of 1985. In 2014, Alex joined the Miami Country Day Alumni Board and served as the Board President from 20202022 during the challenging pandemic years.

Alex credits Country Day with laying the educational foundation he needed to excel beyond the classroom in many creative and impactful ways. Alex is actively involved in pro bono community building and is the co-founder of Refresh Miami and Social Media Club South Florida, both of which Alex grew from infancy to over 8,000 members. These Miami based startups were focused on business growth and through their monthly events and tech conferences held at the Arsht Center, created opportunities for companies, brands, and individuals to connect. Alex’s influence led to his naming as a Knight Innovator in Residence, serving at the School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Florida International University. Alex has also served as the Regional Director for Constant Contact in South Florida. He taught a cuttingedge social media class at the University of Miami’s School of Communications and coauthored,

“Securing the Clicks: Network Security in the Age of Social Media,” published by McGraw-Hill. Alex founded BarCamp, Ignite, Social Media Day, and Mobile Monday events for South Florida new media professionals. He also enjoyed a corporate career in Digital Marketing and spent time at IBM social

media worldwide. Alex developed indispensable leadership skills at Country Day and has served on the Advisory Board of FIU’s School of Journalism, the New Leaders Council, and Life is Art.

Alex earned his Masters in Business Administration at the prestigious Insead: Business School For the World, and is the epitome of a Miami Country Day School global citizen. Alex speaks English, French, Portuguese, Spanish and Finnish, served in the Finnish military and is currently the Honorary Consul of Finland. And, if all that is not enough, when Alex finds free time he loves to join a drum circle!

After graduating from Country Day Alex returned to Europe for an extended time. When he returned to the States he came home to the Miami Country Day Campus. When he left, the school consisted of a quadrangle and a field. He noted, “When I came back it looked like a college campus - the physical appearance, modern buildings, technology and athletic facilities, especially the Garner Center for Innovation, provide amazing opportunities for the current students.”

Alex was inspired by the campus’ physical transformation and impressed with the

innovative programming highlighted by the newly established Impact Studio. Alex himself commented that he would love to be an Impact Studio student today. He was most impressed by Miami Country Day’s ability to develop a new type of student with innovative skills that are needed in the world and he acknowledged the great need for creativity in the world today reflecting that, “We are no longer living in an industrial world and therefore do not need the cookie cutter student.”

He is proud that Country Day recognizes and responds to that need.

Alex was an active member of the Alumni Association long

before he assumed the Presidency. He particularly enjoyed the alumni speaker spotlights at the CD networking hour events.

Alex fondly remembers the alumni event held at the Peter Tunney gallery at Wynwood Walls where about 70 alums from many graduating classes came together to celebrate friendship and all things Country Day. Alex also enjoyed the alumni dinners in downtown Miami where he reminisced about his favorite teachers, Ms. Stobs, Ms. Rosenfeld, Ms. Cassini and his history teacher, Mr. Ruggles.

Alex truly enjoyed his years as President of the Alumni Board as it has allowed him to learn more about current school events and to get to know our President and Head of School, Mariandl

Hufford, with whom he is very impressed. Alex notes that Mariandl’s contact with the Alumni Board and outstanding presentations have brought them into the fold of current day MCDS. He also particularly enjoyed the alumni events she hosted at the Head of School home.

Alex describes his multidecade experience at Country Day as overall excellent and outstanding in every sense; academic, athletic, and, social.

“Without a doubt, Country Day changed my life and it set me up for great things in life.”

LAURA BUCCELLATI

Laura Buccellati was a member of one of the school’s smallest graduating classes. The 28-member class of 1988 was small but the ties that bind them are strong and mighty. Members of the class of ’88 have served on the Alumni Board and maintain close relationships with each other decades after their graduation day. They travel together, share family moments and remain steadfast in their love for their alma mater and all things Miami Country Day.

This close connection to her school and peers and the influence of her late classmate, Charlie Bloom, and fellow alum Claudia Figueredo ’90, prompted Laura to become involved in the MCDS Alumni Association when asked to join in 2014. She served as the Alumni Board Vice President from 2018 to 2022, and while the time has come for her to step down from that role, she looks forward to remaining an active member of the Alumni Board.

“I am honored to assist as part of the Alumni Board. Country Day has always had a special

place in my life and my heart. I’ve made some great lifelong friendships here. I love to help the school in any way I can by drawing on my contacts in the community.”

Laura moved to the Miami area when she was six years old and proudly attended MCDS from 8th to 12th grade. She graduated from the University of Tampa with a Bachelor of Science degree and returned to her hometown to earn an MBA in International Business and Management from the University of Miami. Laura fondly remembers

her favorite teachers, Ms. Stobs and Ms. Rosenfeld, both famed faculty members and local icons. When asked about Ms. Stobs, Laura said she loved her class and her mind takes her back to her supportive nature and the fact that she was always there for the students, both in and out of the classroom. Of course, when speaking about Ms. Rosenfeld, her robust character immediately came to mind and Laura reflected on how grateful she is that Ms. Rosenfeld pushed her to think outside the box. Laura relied on this framework to help navigate her current career as a residential real estate broker and the ever-changing housing market over the last two years. She remarked that Ms. Rosenfeld’s original thinking helped her to create her own original thoughts and plans.

Country Day prepared Laura for many professional ventures and in 1995 she joined a startup internet company that concentrated on tools for human resource departments that later became the back-end technology for Monster. com. This technology is still available used by mid to large sized companies today.

In 2008, Laura started a high-end leather goods company bearing her name. Laura designed products and managed the company based in South Florida. Her products were

manufactured in Italy and sold in the United States, the Bahamas, Panama and Hong Kong. In her free time Laura loves to cook, especially Italian inspired meals, and is an avid yogi.

Laura has enjoyed the many school and alumni events that have been so special to her because they allowed her to become connected with other alums of all ages and that has enlarged her MCDS family circle. She particularly loves the energy of the younger alums and their innovative ideas of how to connect the community. She continues to look forward each year to attending the Yule Log Ceremony, which is her favorite MCDS event. Laura and her family also regularly attend and have sponsored the Walk with Purpose. She enjoys sharing these special events with the entire Country Day community For Laura, the Feeding South Florida volunteer event the Alumni Association hosted is one of the most impactful programs she participated in and this project inspired her to become involved with Feeding South Florida personally and professionally. This is one more example of how Miami Country Day School brings its commitment to philanthropy and global citizenry to life.

Every time Laura visits the campus she is proud of how the school has evolved. When she was a student her library was

a portable trailer; not the cutting-edge Franco Center for Learning Resources that students enjoy today. She notes how the gym and the pool made the school more complete and refers to the Center for the Arts as the crowning jewel of the campus.

“I’m amazed at the many opportunities the school has to offer and this newest stateof-the art facility is just one of the highlights we provide our students and the community...”

Laura shared that, “Country Day has brought me insight

in academics and how to treat other people. It made me a better person. It is a community and the sense of community and support is strong and special and doesn’t exist anywhere else. Individual needs and learning capabilities are a focus at Country Day and that makes a huge impact.”

ALUMNI INSTAGRAM

First Day of School

These alums returned to MCDS today to kick off the ‘first day of school’ for the 2021-22 school year! Thank you to the 11 alumni faculty and staff who showcase their talents to our students, parents and alumni community every day.

Thank you to alumna, Kim Juanico McAdam, ’02 for stopping by campus. Kim spoke with our Walk with Purpose Committee about her work with palliative care for children battling cancer and other life-altering illnesses. Kim and MCDS students discussed ideas and ways MCDS can help and support those in need in our community.

Alumna, Lorraine Estime ’08 stopped by campus to speak with our students about her journey from MCDS to Spelman College and her current role as an Entertainment Attorney in Los Angeles, California.

Check out these fun alumni photos from the reunion celebrations that took place in October, honoring the classes of ’00, ’01, ’02, ’09, ’10, ’11 & ’12. MCDS faculty and staff had a blast catching up with alumni, and alums enjoyed reconnecting and reminiscing with one another.

October Reunions

Kim Juanico

Lorraine Estime ‘08

Laurel Ivory

Congratulations to alumna and professional goalkeeper, Laurel Ivory ’17 who signed a oneyear deal with a one-year option with the Club OL Region, and American professional women’s soccer team based in Seattle, Washington!

Mariandl

Highlight of 2022 so far: surprise visit of @mcds2020 alumni. Their smiles were visible through their masks. Some of these alumni had not been back on campus since March 2020. One of them said “I missed it so much”

Tiffany

Check out this powerful short film entitled “Welcome Back” on HBOMax which was written, directed, and produced by MCDS alumna, Tiffany Kontoyiannis Guillen ’12. The MCDS Alumni Association is so proud of Tiffany and we are thrilled that her work is being recognized and featured on HBO! She was awarded 1 of 6 filmmakers chosen out of 300+ applicants for a 2-year Viacom CBS Directors program Fellowship.

Senior

The senior class participated in the annual “100 Days” Ceremony also knows as the Senior Brick Ceremony! This Senior Brick tradition began in 1998 and every year since then the MCDS Alumni Association has hosted this event to commemorate this historical milestone!

Toast of Friendship

Thank you to all of the alumni who returned to campus last month for our annual Alumni Toast to Friendship. Our MCDS Faculty and Staff always enjoy evenings where they can reconnect with our Alumni Spartans!

College with Seniors

Thank you to this amazing Alumni panel for coming back to campus last month to give advice to the class of 2022 on how to “Survive College”

-Breanna Blot ’13 (Fairmont State University)

-Cameron Ivory ’14 (Arizona State University)

-Kanesha Petit-Phar (Florida International University)

-Ines Lei ’15 (Boston University)

Thank you again Spartans for giving back and sharing your words of wisdom with the class of 2022! Once a Spartan always a Spartan.

Career Day

Earlier this school year the class of 2022 participated in an annual MCDS Senior tradition, Career Day. The class of 2022 learned about different careers and industries and alumni shared some worldly advice with Seniors.

13, 14, 15 1981 & 1942 40 Year Reunion

A lot of alumni reconnected and came back to campus last month for reunions, alumni baseball & basketball games and the Hall of Fame Ceremony! We look forward to seeing more alums next year because… #OnceASpartanAlwaysASpartan

K ‘12

with class of 2020 Alums

Bricks