Cupola spring 2012: What's Ahead?

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What’s Ahead?

Spring 2012

Moses Brown Cupola


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Moses Brown School

Moses Brown, a Friends school, exists to inspire the inner promise of each student and instill the utmost care for learning, people, and place. — Moses Brown School mission statement

Moses Brown School Board of Trustees 2011-2012 Frohman C. Anderson ’80 P ’10 ’12 John T. Barrett, Jr. ’63 P ’01 Neil S. Beranbaum ’86 P ’22 ’24 Emily Low Boenning ’81

About Our Cover

Russell Carpenter ’59 David Costantino P ’12 Clerk, Buildings & Grounds Committee Marc A. Crisafulli P ’12 ’14 ’17

This issue of Cupola examines the topic of “the future”

and Kristen met Michael on top of The Residences

and where we’re headed, both at MB and beyond.

Providence, one of the many properties he oversees

Inside, we share forward-looking perspectives and

for the Procaccianti Group. The unique vantage

experiences from Frank Sulloway ’65, Scott Wolf ’71,

point from Providence’s highest residential point

Michael Voccola ’76, Parker Ramspott ’78, Cheryl

let MB staff get some great pictures of Michael as

Schadone Cohen ’81, David Everett ’81, Albie Dahlberg

well of Moses Brown, downtown Providence, and

Treasurer

’87, Irving Fain ’98, Wiley Cerilli ’98, Albert Huang ’99,

Narragansett Bay.

Clerk, Budget & Finance Committee

Drew Harry ’01, Dan Winston ’05, and Reva Street ’05.

Gary Goldberg ’87 P ’17 ’19 ’20

Thanks to Hardi Parker ’78, our guest editor for this

editions of Cupola to Karin and Kristen at kmorse@

issue.

mosesbrown.org / kcurry@mosesbrown.org. Field

trip invitations welcome!

Alumni Relations Director Karin Morse ’79 and

Send comments on this issue or ideas for future

Managing Editor Kristen Curry captured our cover

image this fall while meeting with profilee Michael

weekend this May.

Catch up with Cupola and MB staff at MB Reunion

Voccola, a downtown developer (see page 12). Karin

Dana Falk P ’11 ’14 ’14 Clerk, Parents’ Association Ted Fischer ’83 P ’12 ’14 ’17 Clerk, Development Committee Katharine Hazard Flynn P ’12 ’15

Brian Goldner P ’14 Habib Y. Gorgi ’74 P ’08 ’10 ’12 ’17 Clerk of the Board Clerk, Executive Committee Melissa Crouchley Hem ’85 David Holdt Lee Jaspers P ’11 ’14 Mary Jo Kaplan P ’08 ’11 Kathleen Levesque P’ 12 ’14 ’17 Frederick Martin

Looking forward … Reunion 2012: May 12

M. Willis Monroe ’04

Randy Street will be recognized as Faculty Member of the Year at spring Reunion.

Neal Pandozzi ’91

David Morsilli ’87 and Peter Kilborn ’57 will receive 25th Reunion Achievement and Distinguished Alumnus awards from the Moses Brown Alumni Association. Know of someone who’s forward-looking for Moses Brown or within their field? Send nominations for future awards to alumni@mosesbrown.org.

Elizabeth Morse Jaymin Patel P ’16 ’17 Dieter Pohl P ’14 Stephanie Ogidan Preston ’97 Clerk, Alumni Association James Reavis P ’11 ’13 ’16 Clerk, Trustees Committee Cynthia West Reik Lisa Rocchio ’85 P ’14 ’15 ’21

MB Commencement 2012: June 14

Martha Schwope

Heather Tow-Yick ’94, executive director of Teach for America Rhode Island, will deliver this year’s commencement address. Alumni and community members are always invited to come back to MB for Commencement.

Friends Coordinator Carol Smith Recording Clerk E. Paul Sorensen P ’02 Blair D. Stambaugh Sheri Sweitzer P ’05 Assistant Clerk of the Board Clerk, Strategic Planning Committee Reza Taleghani ’90 Catherine Terry Taylor P ’15 Clerk, Nominating Committee Steven Tripp P ’19 ’24 Carl Weinberg P ’90 ’94 ’16 ’24

Remember when “media of the future” looked like this?

Elizabeth R. B. Zimmerman P ’94

(Circa 1959-60, Mr. Jordan’s classroom)

Matt Glendinning

Don’t wait for “rabbit ears” to arrive to stay current. Visit MB on Facebook or www.mosesbrown.org for videos of MB classrooms, activities and events today.

Clerk, Nurturing Friends Education

Head of School Jackie Stillwell Clerk of NEYM


Cupola

Spring 2012

Cupola A bi-annual magazine for Moses Brown School alumni

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Editor Sandi Seltzer P ’09 ’13 Managing Editor Kristen A. Curry Class Notes Editor Susan Cordina P ’14 ’16 Director of Alumni Relations Karin Morse ’79 Director of Development and Alumni Relations Ronald Dalgliesh P ’19 ’21 Photography Peter Goldberg David O’Connor Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau Designer Bridget Snow Design

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Printer Colonial Printing, Warwick, certified by the Forest Stewardship Council The Cupola is produced by the Office of Alumni Relations for alumni and friends of Moses Brown. Your feedback is welcome. Please send comments to: Cupola, Moses Brown School, 250 Lloyd Avenue, Providence, RI 02906. Send suggestions, class notes, and address updates to MB Alumni Relations via mosesbrown.org or alumni@mosesbrown.org; 401-831-7350 x114. Moses Brown School is a nonprofit institution. www.mosesbrown.org

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The Future Issue Guest editor: Richard “Hardi” Parker ’78, page 7

8

Frank Sulloway ’65: a life of the mind

10 Scott Wolf ’71: helping Rhode Island grow smart 12 Michael Voccola ’76: Providence perspective 14 Albie Dahlberg ’87: sparking change

Departments “Creativity Matters” from Head of School Matt Glendinning

4

Hope & Lloyd: School News

5

15 Albert Huang ’99: a path to robotics 16 Reva Street ’05: engineering a career in biomedicine 17 What Will Our Graduates Face? The MB 2030 Forum

Alumni Events & Awards

21

18 New Faculty Snapshot

Homecoming 2011

22

20 Coming this April: TEDx MosesBrownSchool

Class Notes

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43 Endowment Fuels the Future!

The Moses Brown Fund

37

MyMB: Molly Sullivan ’11

39

In Memoriam

40

Ramspott ’78, Cheryl Schadone Cohen ’81, David Everett ’81, Barrett Bready

Former Faculty & Staff

42

’95, Irving Fain ’98, Wiley Cerilli ’98, Drew Harry ’01, and Dan Winston ’05

Please see Class Notes, starting on page 24, for special profiles on Parker


Creativity Matters

A letter from Matt Glendinning, Head of School

THIS ISSUE OF CUPOLA

subject since then, it seems that many in the

intellectual agility to shape the future.

FOCUSES on the future,

world of both business and academia agree.

and some of the Moses

will recognize some of these traits in the

Brown alumni who are

of Education Week, author Sarah Sparks says,

stories of scholar Frank Sulloway ’65,

helping to shape it.

“Teaching creativity has been a hot-button

environmental activist Albie Dahlberg ’87,

topic this fall, from the National Academy of

computer scientist Albert Huang ’99, and

electric and driverless

Education’s annual meeting in Washington

biomedical researcher Reva Street ’05,

cars, from urban

to a Learning and the Brain conference in

among others.

renewal to nerve

Boston. Yet researchers are just beginning to

regeneration in the

determine what makes some students more

in some of MB’s most recent initiatives,

spinal cord, this edition of the MB alumni

creative than their peers, and how the

e.g., a biannual education summit called

magazine presents the stories of some

classroom environment can nurture or

the MB 2030 Forum (see page 17), and our

remarkable people making a real difference

smother that ability.”

inaugural TEDx conference entitled Lives

in the world.

that Speak, scheduled for April 19 (see page

From robotics to

4

Writing in the December 14, 2011 edition

What exactly is creativity? Clearly it

In the pages that follow, I hope that you

I also hope that you will find interest

involves originality and imagination. But

20). By hosting and leading conversations

stories are far from unique among MB

more, it means the ability to problem-solve

at the forefront of educational practice,

alums. Indeed, so often do our graduates

by applying the known to the unknown, and

Moses Brown both honors its core values

seem to find themselves at the leading edge

to innovate by transcending conventional

and time-tested philosophy and embraces

of human intellectual, scientific, cultural

wisdom.

a changing future.

and artistic achievement, one might well

wonder: what’s in the water at this 228-year-

creativity is challenging, I believe that

“Hardi” Parker ’78 for helping us collect and

old Quaker school in Providence?

MB’s Quaker heritage provides a distinct

shape these inspiring stories. As always, I

No less remarkable is the fact that such

While research suggests that teaching

I’d like to thank guest editor Richard

advantage. By encouraging students to be

invite you to keep the conversation going.

conducted by IBM in 2010, in which 1,500

intellectually curious and self-reflective, to

Please email me at mglendinning@

CEOs world-wide identified creativity as the

nurture their inner passion, and to take

mosesbrown.org if you would like to

attribute most needed for success in the

appropriate risks and learn from challenge

respond to anything you see in these pages.

future. Judging by the myriad books,

(even failure), MB provides students with a

conferences and articles written on the

foundation in creativity, and hence the

One possible clue comes from a survey


d

News from Moses Brown Today Congratulations Four MB seniors have been selected as R.I.

for outstanding black American high school

Presidential Scholar candidates. Yixin Sun, Noah

students. It was recently announced that Gracie

Jennis, Jacob Sim, and Marena Richardson were

won the award.

named as 2012 candidates for Rhode Island.

The Rhode Island Arts Education Association

Junior Emma Rantanen won an Honorable

named eight MB students as recipients of its

Mention Silver Award in Cornell University’s

2012 Scholastic Arts Awards: Charlie Simmons,

Design contest for fashion. Emma’s work

Paige Davidson, Ariana Gomez, Jessica Litwin,

considered “Our Dichotomous World,” combining

Virginia Kain, Aisha Kuforiji, Ashton Penney,

urban street fashion with natural elements by

and Lauren Doberstein.

incorporating feathers into high-fashion design. Emma’s entry was selected as a finalist from

The Rhode Island Interscholastic League

more than 150 submissions.

honored the boys’ varsity soccer team with the

Four MB wrestlers qualified for Rhode Island

second consecutive year. The league also

State Championships this year, with freshman

named Coach Eric Aaronian Coach of the Year.

Andrew Howard taking first place.

league’s statewide Sportsmanship Award for the

Seventeen Moses Brown students earned

Seniors Gracie Gilbert and Ian Killgore advanced

placement in the All-State Music Festival. Two

to finalist standing in the National Achievement

students, Lydia Parr and Matthew Papa, placed

Scholarship Program. The academic competition

first in the state on bassoon and timpani,

was established in 1964 to provide recognition

respectively.

Salt marsh science and service An upper school AP Biology class has begun work on a salt marsh restoration project, which also doubles as a service learning opportunity. “The kids collected data on plant and animal species richness and abundance (part of our

Hope Street connection

ecology unit) of the salt marsh from the high

This year, 33 MB upper school students were involved in the annual student exchange with

marsh to low marsh,” says instructor Amy

peers from nearby Hope High School. This is the third annual partnership, with this year’s events

Newbold. “We used seine nets to sample diver-

coordinated by MB alumna Melissa Francois ’97, assistant program director for the H20 After School

sity of vertebrates and invertebrate animals in

Program at Hope High, along with MB’s interim dean of students, Kevin Matson, and student leaders

the tidal water in the marsh. These two sets of

at both schools. The exchange program allows students to gain an understanding of differences and

data were used to assess the health of this salt

commonalities between the schools and was featured in a Providence Journal article. Students also

marsh. This is especially important given the

enjoyed a presentation by psychologist and performer Dr. Michael Fowlin (a.k.a. Mykee), who gave a

general importance of estuary habitats.”

compelling talk on identity, difference, and tolerance.

5


Dumplings & differences: Chinese exchange and experiences at MB What are the differences between Chinese and American classrooms? Twenty-three Chinese secondary-level educators visited campus this year to find out as part of an eight-week program at Brown University’s Shenzhen Institute for Teachers. According to the visiting teachers, instructors in the U.S. are often more skilled at developing relationships with students and teaching creativity, problem-solving, and analysis. In contrast, Chinese instructors specialize at

New roles

imparting high volumes of information to very large classes.

Erik Wilker has been appointed director of

MB’s lower school also had a Chinese exchange of its own. As part of its unit on China, fifth grade invited visitors with Chinese origins to offer students a firsthand account of what life is like there. This year, students heard an upper school family member, Jing Song, describe life growing up in China,

administrative and strategic affairs at Moses Brown. Erik is responsible for the smooth operation of the school’s day-to-day governance and management, as well as coordination of the school’s long-term strategic plans.

as well as upper school Chinese language teacher Hui Gao.

Tammie Worthington-Witczak has taken a new

Hui and her students also recently invited the MB community

role at MB as associate director of development

to celebrate Chinese New Year with a dumpling party in the

for annual programs and advancement services.

Meetinghouse.

Tammie has served MB in many important capacities, most recently as a member of the Global Stewardship Task Force.

Middle school science in action: (sometimes) wet and (occasionally) balloon-powered! Seventh grade students recently engaged in a water-carrying lab for their water use, sources, and pollution unit. In small groups, they simulated the carrying of five gallons of water from a “town well” back to their “home” a mile away. The

New MB website

project was featured in Scholastic Instructor magazine. Eighth

If you haven’t visited the MB website

grade also studied Newton’s law of motion in about the most

recently, have a look at our new design

fun way possible: by creating balloon-powered race cars and

and see what’s going on with the school,

then competing against each other in the Sinclair Room.

as well as keep up with recent alumni news (www.mosesbrown.org/alumni) and events (www.mosesbrown.org/events).

Follow along If you are in the world of Twitter or Facebook, then please find us there as well; we’ll keep you up-to-date on everything from academic, sports and arts news, to Homecoming or Reunion reminders, and of course Doc Odell’s presiden-

This was a topic considered at this winter’s round of diversity workshops in lower school. Other

tial run! Where? Twitter.com/mosesbrown,

topics included “Multicultural Manners,” “Through Different Eyes,” “I Know I Don’t NEED It, but I

Twitter.com/mbalumni and www.facebook.com/

really WANT It!,” “Our Many Colors,” and “Viewing the World Through Different Lenses of Faith.”

MosesBrownschool

6

What do Derek Jeter, Barack Obama, and Lower School Head Abby Guinn have in common?


Photo: Nicholas Millard

What Would Andy Do? By Guest Editor Richard “Hardi” Parker ’78

“Hard work, vision, and even hardship, not simply the expectation of receiving success without effort, create a deeply rewarding condition from which stewardship and fiduciary responsibility can blossom.”

A LARGE PART OF WHAT DEFINES OUR

batteries to his plant in wooden boxes,

the passing of Andrew Arkway ’78, my

LIVES is our professions and careers. Over

built to exact specifications. These boxes,

very closest friend throughout our entire

the past several decades, and especially

once received with the batteries, were not

lives. When speaking at Andy’s Celebration

during the last 20 years, traditional

simply discarded, but disassembled, and the

of Life this past July, I chose to address,

professions have been augmented and,

materials used as floorboards for these early

“What Would Andy Do?” Throughout his

at times, upstaged by careers that did not

automobiles. At the same time, while green

life, Andy was both an environmentalist and

exist prior. While professions in fields like

space around metropolitan Detroit was

an advocate of social welfare causes. Most

information technology are still considered

rapidly giving way to factories and housing,

recently, Andy had worked as a stewardship

new, prior “new” careers, like those in

Ford maintained extensive open land with

director for the Aquidneck Land Trust,

plastics (as professed in the movie The

functional farming in Dearborn, directly

working to preserve the ever-threatened

Graduate), have not only become mature, but

adjacent to his company’s future world

green spaces on Newport, Portsmouth, and

are now leaving North America, dominated

headquarters.

Middletown.

by emerging economies.

As we look at the past, the future,

only an opportunity, but a responsibility,

it made economic sense (yet!), but because

professions, Quakerism, and ethics, it

to work responsibly and nurture the next

he believed in supporting transitional

is important to see consistency through

generation. We need to work toward

technologies that will ultimately benefit our

the ages. Hard work, vision, and even

influencing our future leaders educationally

environment.

hardship, not simply the expectation of

so that they will consider both their

receiving success without effort, create a

personal needs and those of others and the

who are profiled in this issue of Cupola,

deeply rewarding condition from which

environment, as they pursue their careers.

consider the positive impact each is making

stewardship and fiduciary responsibility can

It will be important for them to consider

in their own way. As you go forward in your

blossom.

essential personal needs, such as providing

own endeavors, perhaps you too might

Long before the concepts of reuse and

for their families, while at the same time

consider how you can challenge yourself

green space were visible in the public eye,

providing stable growth opportunities for

to embrace the concept of stewardship,

Henry Ford was already pursuing these

their employees and conservation of our

nurture the next generation, work towards

concepts. Ford required that suppliers

environment and planet.

improving our world, and ask this simple

of batteries for his early cars ship the

question, “What would Andy do?”

Like Henry Ford, we, too, have not

Elsewhere in this issue, you will note

Andy drove a Toyota Prius, not because

As we look at the Moses Brown alumni

Richard “Hardi” Parker attended Providence College and Siena Heights University after MB and is now vice president and director of business development for a reusable packaging manufacturer in Michigan. Creative Techniques, Inc. provides reusable transport packaging solutions and products to customers around the world. The company helps eliminate waste related to expendable packaging. The company serves a range of industries, from automotive, aerospace, and food & beverage to pharmaceutical and alternative energy. Hardi is pleased to report some “rust belt recovery” with an influx of work from existing and new clients. They are operating on a 24/6 schedule, on both traditional automotive work and projects for new clients. Hardi cites faculty members Jim Maland, Wayne Curtis, Robert Clough, Beth Taylor, and Dave McNab as significant influences during his time at MB. While at MB, Hardi ran track & field for Doc Odell and rowed crew. Contact Hardi at parker-rick@hotmail.com.

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Born to Rebel: A Life of the Mind

Frank Sulloway ’65 Frank Sulloway’s career has included research in the history of science, psychology, and evolutionary biology. His earliest passion, however, was for astronomy — an interest he pursued during his five years at MB. Frank’s first publication, which appeared in Sky & Telescope when he was 14, was a photograph he took of a spectacular aurora borealis as it shimmered above one of the school’s athletic fields. His interest in photography has provided a useful adjunct to his research. Today, he is engaged in a long-term project in the Galápagos Islands, begun three years after While an undergraduate at Harvard, Frank Sulloway organized an expedition to South America, retracing Darwin’s Beagle voyage. This fostered Frank’s lifelong interest in evolutionary theory, which continues to take him to the Galápagos.

his graduation from Moses Brown in 1965, that makes use of “repeat photography” to document ecological changes caused by invasive species.

The Future

Birth Order and Family Dynamics

8

A PRINCIPAL FOCUS OF FRANK’S BOOK

BORN TO REBEL was to understand what

Freud (about whom Frank wrote a prize-

For his research on Darwin as well as on

Frank back to the Galápagos Islands 12 times

influence, if any, birth order exerts on

winning book, Freud, Biologist of the Mind,

since his first visit there in 1968.

personality and radical thinking. “The book

1979), Frank received a MacArthur Award in

was also an effort to test a broader,

1984, which gave him five years of

of my education at Moses Brown that have

Darwinian perspective on how family

no-strings-attached funding to do whatever

exerted a lasting impact on my life and

dynamics relates to individual development,”

he wanted — a serendipitous event that

career,” Frank says. “Both of these

Frank says. Many birth order effects, Frank

helped him to transition from the history of

influences were associated with Doc Odell,

argued, represent sibling strategies for

science to psychology, and to complete his

who taught me French as well as Russian.

surviving childhood and increasing fitness,

research for Born to Rebel. Over the last

When I was conducting research for my

sometimes at the expense of siblings. He

decade Frank has increasingly collaborated

book Born to Rebel, I had to consult

maintained that siblings are much like

with behavioral ecologists and evolutionary

biographies of famous scientists and other

Darwin’s famous finches in that they tend

biologists. Much of this research (which has

historical figures written in more than half a

to diversify within the family by occupying

required him to do some significant

dozen languages. Doc’s tutelage helped me

and exploiting different family niches in

retooling) has focused on evolutionary

to take what I had learned at Moses Brown

order to garner familial resources,

processes in the Galápagos Islands: “Among

and to apply this linguistic foundation to the

particularly parental investment. Publication

other findings, my colleagues and I have

learning of other languages.”

of the book led to Frank’s selection as a

shown that Darwin’s finches exhibit

recipient of the Golden Plate Award of the

morphological differences over modest

Frank’s academic career is the fact that he

American Academy of Achievement (1997)

geographic distances within the same island,

has been an independent scholar for the last

by three prior recipients, Francis Crick,

highlighting the power of natural selection to

40 years, supporting himself almost entirely

Stephen Jay Gould, and Edward O. Wilson.

fine-tune adaptations to local resources.”

through grants, fellowships, occasional

This and other research projects have taken

“Looking back, I can identify two aspects

Perhaps the most unusual feature of


“Although my training, research, and theoretical work are very diverse, these activities are united by my deep and sustained interest in all things ‘Darwinian.’ Darwin himself has served as an inspiring role model for me — in his tenacity, his focus on detail, his remarkable openness to experience, and, finally, his search for overarching theories to explain seemingly disparate facts.” photos: Eric Rorer

Measuring the beaks of Darwin’s finches at the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco (2009). This study involves documentation of morphological changes in beak size among three tree finches over the last century.

Darwin Redo AT HARVARD, FRANK BEGAN TO FORGE the path as the independent scholar he is today. Frank’s interests and independent research led him to challenge one of the most widespread legends in the history of science, that of Charles Darwin and his theory of evolution. Not content to rely solely on library sources or the research of others, Frank organized an expedition during the summer of his junior year. He organized an eight-person film crew that traveled to South America, retracing Darwin’s route during his voyage on the H.M.S. Beagle (1831-1836). In the course of this three-month trip, Frank made several discoveries about how the voyage influenced Darwin’s conversion to the theory of evolution. In contrast to the established legend that Darwin first converted to evolution in the Galápagos Islands — as a result of his discovery Looking for invasive wasps (Polistes versicolor) inside the caldera of Volcan Alcedo in the Galapagos Islands in 2008. In the background are several steaming fumaroles.

of “Darwin’s finches” — Frank was able to demonstrate from manuscript sources that Darwin initially misunderstood this famous evidence. Frank cites the finches’ “diverse beak morphology” which he says led Darwin to misclassify the birds, overlooking their evolutionary implications. In a series of publications about Darwin’s intellectual development, Frank showed that Darwin’s conversion to evolution did not occur during the Beagle voyage, as previously believed, but

awards, and by royalties from his various

rather took place six months after his return to England. Frank made this discovery by

publications. Although he has always been

conducting a detailed investigation of Darwin’s voyage and post-voyage notebooks as well as

affiliated with a university and was recently

the specimens he collected during the Beagle voyage.

made adjunct professor in the Department

of Psychology at U.C. Berkeley, he has never

intellectual development,” says Frank, “was my realization that Darwin’s conversion to the theory

held a full-time job and says, “I have never

of evolution was an extended process, and that his personality played a major role in this

wanted one. I have tried to live the life of

transformation. Darwin’s revolutionary insights arose from evidence that became widely known

the mind and to follow my research

to his scientific peers two decades before the Origin of Species (1859) was published. Yet his peers

interests wherever they might lead. Looking

— often more knowledgeable than Darwin about the proper classification of his specimens —

back, it seems that I enjoyed being a student

generally failed to see the full implications of this evidence; and even when they did suspect its

so much, both at Moses Brown and later at

importance, they shied away from breaking with conventional wisdom and interpreting the new

Harvard, that I decided to make a career of it.”

data in the revolutionary manner that Darwin did. Although young Darwin actually knew less

“What was perhaps most consequential about my revision of prior accounts of Darwin’s

science, he was the one who had the conceptual breakthroughs that initiated a scientific revolution.” Frank Sulloway is an adjunct professor in the

Department of Psychology at the University of

begin studying the psychology of creative achievement, examining individual life histories.

Later, as a graduate student at Harvard, Frank’s conclusions about Darwin stimulated him to

California – Berkeley. Frank received his A.B.

Frank began to direct his work toward the psychology of scientific creativity and the causes of

from Harvard College and his master’s and Ph.D.

radical achievement in science. This led to his book Born to Rebel: Birth Order, Family Dynamics,

from Harvard University, focusing on the history

and Creative Lives (1996). Using statistical methods and a database of more than 6,000 eminent

of science. In 1984 Frank received a five-year

scientists and other historical figures, Frank showed that birth order and family dynamics are

MacArthur Award for his work on Darwin and

surprisingly good predictors of radical thinking and revolutionary achievements, as well as

Freud. See more on his work at sulloway.org or

other aspects of human behavior. His book presented a Darwinian framework for understanding

contact Frank at sulloway@berkeley.edu.

personality development in terms of sibling competition for parental resources.

9


Photos courtesy of PWCVB

Photo: Marianne Lee

Realistic Optimism about Rhode Island’s Future Scott Wolf ’71 Executive Director, Grow Smart Rhode Island WHEN I SPEAK ACROSS RHODE ISLAND, I

failure of leadership and vision could deny a

system, but not on the manufactured

deliver a message of optimism about our

bright future for a state with the following

problems embodied in false and misguided

state because I think that we have

assets:

Rhode Island “urban legends” (all untrue)

tremendous untapped potential. I want to

• more historic buildings per square mile

that have gained too much currency: our

help my fellow Rhode Islanders build for a better future here.

than any other • more college students per capita than

I’ve learned that in Rhode Island, it’s

almost revolutionary to be publicly positive

virtually any other • well-positioned deep water ports and

about our state’s future given the negative group think and “Chicken Littleism”

harbors • some of the most energy-efficient

seeing a mass exodus of wealthy people from Rhode Island.

As leaders, we must push back against

lazy thinking and gratuitous pessimism. One

development patterns and public

of the biggest problems with a pessimistic

Rhode Island’s future places you at risk of

policies in the nation at a time when the

mindset is that it can make us too easily

era of cheap oil is ending

satisfied with our state’s performance, and

questioned. By envisioning a better Rhode

• an outstanding urban-rural balance as

not demanding enough of our leaders.

Island, you put yourself in a position to

the second most urbanized and 15th

propose action vs. capitulation, engagement

most forested state in the country

neighborhoods, what we need most urgently

vs. withdrawal, accountability vs.

The Future

magnet within the Northeast, and we are

pervasive here. Expressing optimism about being embarrassed, even having your sanity

10

sales tax burden is high, we are a welfare

To ensure economic vitality and stronger

is a paradigm shift toward a broad

scapegoating.

We need to build on such assets.

prosperity initiative that plays to our

numerous strengths.

Unfortunately, many Rhode Islanders

Rhode Island should focus on the

tend to revel in our real and perceived

growing number of knowledge economy

weaknesses while remaining oblivious to

companies and entrepreneurs that want the

aggressive urban revitalization policy so we

our impressive strengths. George Wein,

kind of funky, historic, highly walkable,

don’t have more Central Falls-style

noted impresario of the Newport Jazz and

mixed-use neighborhood settings that we

bankruptcy debacles, which can have

Folk festivals and a native New Yorker, once

have in abundance. Fortunately, state

serious statewide implications in a footprint

observed, “Rhode Island thinks it’s a

leaders are finally beginning to market these

as small as ours. Grow Smart advocates for

depressed area, they think it’s a permanent

appealing neighborhoods beyond Rhode

a targeted state historic tax credit, more

way of life.”

Island’s borders.

effective marketing by the State’s Economic

Development Corporation of historic

In order to avoid having our state

As we focus on our challenges, it is

For our cities, we need a conscious and

continue to sell itself short and under-

critical that we view them through the

buildings that have already been rehabbed,

perform, we need to better understand

prism of our strengths and focus on real

and incentives for infrastructure and

Rhode Island’s current reality and better

problems like a decaying transportation

business investment in our urban, town and

imagine its potential future. Only a dramatic

infrastructure and an underfunded pension

village centers. We’re heartened that


Photo: Marianne Lee

Photo: PWCVB

Photo: PWCVB

Photo: Nicholas Millard

Grow Smart Rhode Island advocates sustainable economic growth in our state. See growsmartri.org to access resources or learn more. This May, Grow Smart will hold its 4th biennial Power of Place Summit at the R.I. Convention Center.

“I think retaining a commitment to a core liberal arts curriculum is critical because the acceleration of technological advancement and globalization in our world today puts a premium on intellectual versatility and nimbleness. If Moses Brown is committed to training society’s future leaders, not just our future workers, there is no practical option for Moses Brown other than a core liberal arts curriculum.”

Governor Chafee and the EDC are calling for a restoration of the State’s Main Street program along with other revitalization initiatives.

Let’s make it a priority to raise the

consciousness of all our residents about the vast untapped potential of our special state. We can and must grow smart, but this will

Scott recently gave the graduation address, on Rhode Island’s future, to the most recent graduating class of Leadership Rhode Island, which included Heather Tow-Yick ’94. Scott is a 1987 LRI graduate.

only happen if we become smarter about the numerous assets we have to build on for a better future. Class stats: While at MB, Scott was editor-

Scott highlights a number of promising trends and developments that Rhode Island can leverage

in-chief of The Quaker. He attended MB

for a brighter future:

for 11 years, arriving at Moses Brown in second grade.

Studio 38 and Hasbro coming to downtown Providence, bringing more than 500 new knowledge economy jobs. | Two major ports recently awarded major federal grants to purchase state-of-the-

| |

After MB, Scott Wolf headed to Brown to

art cranes, better positioning Rhode Island to compete in the emerging short sea shipping market.

study political science. While volunteering for

Full implementation of the I-Way project, which has reduced highway bottlenecks in Providence.

Senator Pell’s 1972 reelection campaign in his

More than 20 acres of valuable I-195 land opening up, offering significant economic development

sophomore year, he discovered a love for public

opportunity. | According to some political observers, for the first time in more than 30 years,

service and working in politics. After Brown, he

Rhode Island has a state governor and Providence mayor who actually like each other and who are

worked for the Democratic National Committee

working together closely and productively. | The new Interlink Commuter Rail facility at Green

and was research director for the Carter-

Airport is operational, offering service to Providence and Boston (and soon to Wickford Junction).

Mondale reelection campaign. He has worked on

The long debated/studied runway extension at the airport is moving forward. | The highly creative

political and public policy campaigns in most of

Beta Spring operation in Providence, coaching young entrepreneurs to translate their creative ideas

the 50 states. In Rhode Island, Scott has served

and concepts into marketable businesses. | Impressive new “knowledge economy” companies

as director of the Governor’s Office of Housing

emerging in Rhode Island, led by Rhode Islanders who see R.I.’s potential and assets. | The new

Energy and Intergovernmental Relations for

energy of our agricultural sector, which has experienced major increases recently in the number

Governor Sundlun. Contact Scott at swolf@

of local farms, farm income, and farmers’ markets. | Newport was recently named one of the ten

growsmartri.org.

most beautiful places in America and the site of the upcoming World Series of Sailing

|

[Excerpted from Scott’s recent speech to Leadership Rhode Island]

11


The Future of Providence: a Smarter City Michael Voccola ’76 Rhode Island Real Estate Developer Michael started his real estate career working for his father after school while a student at MB. The summer before his senior year at Boston College, he landed an entry-level position at a firm known as Downing Corporation (now Churchill & Banks) as the self-described “assistant to the copy machine.” By the end of Michael’s tenure there six years later, he was directly involved in the development of 2,000 residential condominium units in Providence and thousands of square feet of commercial space. After starting his own firm and working for a decade as a commercial broker, today Michael is vice president of the Procaccianti Group in Cranston (helmed by classmate Jim Procaccianti ’76). TPG is the third largest hotel owner/operator in the U.S.,

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with 60 hotels in 23 states and 7,500 employees nationally.

12

IN MAY, PROVIDENCE MAYOR ANGEL

noticing how undeveloped and stagnant the

employment, greater investment and an

TAVERAS appointed Michael to one of the

city was and realized that it could not

overall greater city for everyone.”

advisory committees that will lay out the

possibly remain like this and that at some

rules for developing the land uncovered by

point it would blossom.”

dying city — low employment, low

the recent Route 195 realignment. The

investment, low technology and low self-

removal of the historic 195 highway

estate, Michael has been involved in every

esteem,” he comments. “Over the past two

structure at the base of Wickenden Street

aspect of commercial real estate in and

decades, Providence has made tremendous

last summer opened up a 19-acre parcel of

around Providence — from acquisitions to

strides — from the relocation of the railroad

land that is a significant part of the city

financing to legal and management. At the

tracks and the rivers, new train station,

grid, awaiting development. Formerly the

Procaccianti Group, he oversees notable

development of Capital Center, skating rink,

core of the city’s manufacturing industry,

properties throughout the country, operating

Providence Place Mall, WaterFire, PPAC and

the site connects Fox Point, the East Side,

Hyatts and Hiltons from Boston to Santa

Trinity. Those engines drove other engines

Jewelry District, downtown and hospitals.

Monica. The company’s major local property

of investment. We have arrived at a critical

Development of the land has been identified

is The Westin Providence, acquired from the

juncture and now have a multitude of assets

by city and state leaders as a top economic

State of Rhode Island in 2005. They operate

which, properly assembled and maintained,

priority. The advisory committee also includes

a number of properties in Rhode Island from

will continue to foster investment and

Arnold “Buff” Chace ’65, Peter Hayes P ’10’12,

the Sheraton Airport Hotel in Warwick to

development in Providence. The expansion

Robert Gilbane ’67, Barbara Bennett P ’09, and

the Ocean Rose Inn in Narragansett.

of our hospitals and colleges and

Edward Sanderson P’94.

universities will provide further growth

Knowledge Committee allows me to put a

upon which supporting investments and

for nine years,” Michael says. “My daily

fingerprint on the future of the recently-

ideas can flourish. We need to keep going.”

commute was through Providence, and it

liberated portions of the city in terms of use,

The committee is looking at new ways to

was a dismal and dark city back then.

zoning, timing and value,” Michael says. He

define the cityscape — elements of the new

When I would return home from Boston

hopes that the committee’s work will result

development may include European-style

College in the mid-1970s, I distinctly

in a faster, more efficient, effective way to

crosswalks (at road midpoints) that ensure

remember driving through Providence and

develop this land, resulting in “greater

pedestrian safety and smoother traffic flow,

“I grew up in Cranston and attended MB

After 33 years in Rhode Island real

“My involvement with the Providence

“For the longest time, Providence was a


“A liberal arts curriculum is of geometrically growing importance. Middle and upper school students need to be exposed to a variety of arts so that as intelligent and thoughtful a selection can be made when a life course is determined. Historically, one ‘follows in one’s parents’ footsteps,’ but the world now offers a tremendous variety of opportunities in myriad areas, and these are literally changing by the day the planet over. Having solid exposure through a well-designed and executed liberal arts curriculum provides excellent guidance and an invaluable platform to learn, know and select one’s life choices.”

promoting pedestrian activity, ecological

Providence last summer. Michael was one

commitments, ‘green’ technology and other

invited to meet with top IBM executives to

ideas. “These ideas were too futuristic a few

discuss the varied processes of permits and

years ago,” he says, “but now these kind of

approvals — from zoning relief to building

concepts are no longer the way of the

permits — and to work to incorporate

future, they are the way of the present.”

technology into the system to increase

effectiveness and efficiency. Providence was

“The first rule of business is ‘Don’t

ignore the obvious,’” Michael says. “Right in

one of only 24 cities worldwide to receive an

our midst, we have world-class hospitals —

IBM Smarter Cities grant last summer. IBM

Rhode Island, Hasbro, Miriam — and

consultants and specialists are studying how

universities — Brown, RISD, and Johnson &

intelligent technology might unite and

Wales. Joining together with these venerable

advance different aspects of life in Providence,

institutions and creating and fostering the

looking at ways to make the city healthier, safer,

“Visitors to Providence in 20-30 years will see a

natural synergy among them is the basis for

smarter, more prosperous and attractive to

pedestrian-oriented city tied together with walking

city growth. In turn, ancillary growth will

current and prospective residents and businesses.

and bike paths, maybe trolleys. Residents will see

come in the form of residences, restaurants,

Photo: Marianne Lee

billions of dollars in new investment by our

retailers, right down to coffeeshops, tailors

Michael Voccola ’76 is corporate vice president at

hospitals and universities. We will see extensive

and dry cleaners. All of this is needed to

the Procaccianti Group. After MB, he headed to

residential in downtown, citizens availing

transform a conventional city into a

Boston College. Michael worked full-time for the

themselves of the cultural fabric of our performing

cohesive community.”

final three years of his undergraduate program,

arts, and world-class businesses of all types coming

graduating with a degree in marketing from the

in to take advantage of the new population. All

Smarter Cities: A challenging aspect of

School of Management. He received his law degree

this will lead to greater, more stable employment

Michael’s work involves permitting and

from Roger Williams University School of Law and

for all. I look forward to seeing a new Providence

approvals, which differ among municipalities.

is a past recipient of a Providence Preservation

as our forefathers saw when they first started to

For this reason, he became involved with the

Award for Reuse of Historically Significant

create our financial district by filling the basin in

IBM Smarter Cities Challenge awarded to

Property (Vineyard Court, Providence).

the early 1800s.”

13


Sparking Change Albie Dahlberg ’87 “With seven billion people on this planet, most of whom want to live like Americans, our resources are under tremendous stress. I think, for most photo: Providence Phoenix

people, it will be impossible not to be aware of the environmental costs of our lifestyle. As we deplete the cheap resources, there will be more conflicts and rising prices, so there will be economic impacts as well.”

Many in the MB community know Albie Dahlberg ’87 for his service to the school as a member of

Are there other ways that you personally are trying to be more energy independent?

Have you encountered any surprising sources of support for this initiative?

the Alumni Association Board and a member

I have solar thermal panels on my roof to

I am surprised by the boldness of the U.S.

produce hot water. It replaced using our oil

Navy’s goals for petroleum reduction and

burner for hot water. We also use a wood

new renewable energy sources, but it makes

pellet stove for heat, so together, those two

perfect sense. The Newport Naval base is

changes reduced our oil consumption

the leader in plug-in electric vehicles in

significantly.

Rhode Island right now, with about 20

of MB Forum 2030 (see page 17). Albie continues to help Rhode Island look forward and recently launched an effort to help make our state a leader in the move toward electric vehicles: How did you get involved with Project Get Ready? I started Project Get Ready Rhode Island (PGR RI) to address what I believe is one of the greatest threats facing this nation — our

smaller vehicles used only on the base. You think that electric vehicles stand a good chance of adoption in Rhode Island, given our state’s small size … are there other benefits or challenges to be faced here?

tremendous reliance on imported oil. We

Given Rhode Island’s small size, it is

use 20 million barrels of oil each day in the

relatively easy to convene a broad and

U.S., half of which is imported. More than

representative coalition of stakeholders and

70% of our oil goes towards transportation,

build the social capital behind an effort like

mostly gasoline for cars. I realized that the

this. However, Rhode Island is generally not

only way to address our addiction to oil is to

a first adopter state, so that is a challenge.

replace gasoline miles with electricity miles.

PGR RI is a broad coalition of stakeholders:

small businesses, large companies, electricity

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providers, auto dealers, environmental

14

The theme for this issue is “the Future” — how is Rhode Island faring in its quest to get 10,000 plug-in vehicles registered by 2015?

advocates, electricians, engineers, professors,

Plug-in electric vehicles like the Chevy Volt

students and others, working to promote

and Nissan Leaf are just arriving in showrooms

plug-in electric vehicles and the charging

now so we’re a little behind our planned

infrastructure in Rhode Island. Our goal is to

schedule, but this is really a 20-year project,

establish Rhode Island as a leader in green

and that is just phase one. This transition to

transportation, decrease transportation

a new fuel source for transportation will

costs, and reduce emissions by getting

take decades; it is really our only choice.

10,000 plug-in electric vehicles by 2015.

The era of cheap oil is over (as witnessed by

the extreme depths to which we’ll drill in

PGR RI is part of a network of PGR sites

across North America, sharing best

the Gulf of Mexico when the Deepwater Rig

practices, lessons learned, and policy

exploded). I think it is a pretty safe bet that

development, while developing industry

oil prices will continue to increase and

partnerships with auto manufacturers and

battery technology will continue to improve.

electricity providers. Rhode Island was the

Those two trends make vehicle electrification

sixth PGR site nationally and first

more appealing every day.

community in the Northeast.

A decade ago, you were working for the Senate Environmental & Public Works committee in Washington, then returned to Rhode Island to work in state government. What are the benefits, or challenges, of trying to effect change at the local level? Working for Senator John Chafee on the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee was a transformative experience. As a young attorney, it opened my eyes to the complexity of public policy development and the challenges we face to meet increasing energy demands. Working at the U.S. EPA, and then in state government, gave me a firsthand view of the challenges of policy implementation. It is important to get these different perspectives: legislative and executive, state and federal. Albie Dahlberg ’87 is director of state and community relations at Brown University. After MB, Albie attended George Washington University and Boston College Law School. He was named one of seven “energy innovators” by Planet Forward, on a nationally-televised PBS special last April. Albie is a member of MB’s 2030 Forum (see page 17) and the Moses Brown Alumni Association board. Albie and his wife Hilary live in Providence with their three children. Contact Albie at albert_a_dahlberg@brown.edu.


Robots! Albert Huang ’99 MY PATH TO ROBOTICS started with

nobody’s sitting in the driver’s seat. We

in part because we’re at a point where a

computers — I’d been interested in using

spent the month leading up to the final race

great deal of robotics research is ready to be

them to alternately have fun and solve

testing at an abandoned military air base in

developed for widespread use. At Heartland,

problems since I was a kid, including my

Southern California during wildfire season,

we’re building affordable robots to help

days at MB. Back then, there weren’t really

and at some points it had this weird post-

revitalize manufacturing in the U.S. by

any computer science classes (hopefully

apocalyptic future feel because we were

making small-business operations more

there are more options now!), but in my

driving around deserted barracks in a robot

productive.

junior year, I took a class at Brown. Every

car while we could see (and smell) the hills

Tuesday and Thursday afternoon, I’d

of California burning in the distance. Some

Albert Huang graduated from Brown and

rollerblade down Thayer Street to make it in

people I met in that project have since gone

went on to receive his Ph.D. in computer science

time for class.

on to lead the Google self-driving car project

at MIT. While a student at MB, Albert ran

that’s been in the news lately; I’m hoping

cross-country and played handbells. At MIT,

until midway through graduate school.

that they’ll take those techniques and

he focused on machine vision for mobile robots

Looking back, I think I’d always been

eventually build a car that can take me

and even saw his work mentioned in Popular

intimidated by all the math involved, but

somewhere with the push of a button.

Science and on CNN. He also co-wrote a

finally decided to take the plunge because it

book on Bluetooth, Bluetooth Essentials for

seemed so interesting. The idea of building

because we’re able to leverage all of these

Programmers. Albert can be reached at

something that could perform complex

great technologies coming out of other

ashuang@gmail.com.

tasks and help solve real problems was so

sectors and use them to build robots. This

alluring to me that I completely switched

includes not only computer chips, but also

At the heart of it: Albert’s new employer,

research topics several years into my Ph.D.

lightweight materials, and even developments

Heartland Robotics, predicts that, “Robots will

to study robotics.

from entertainment industries. For example,

change the way we work.” The company is located

a recent project I worked on at MIT involved

in Boston’s Innovation District, where Albert works

work on in graduate school was the DARPA

outfitting a small robotic quadrotor helicopter

for founder Rodney Brooks, former director of the

Urban Challenge, a robotic car race where

with a Microsoft Kinect to autonomously

MIT Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence

we modified a Land Rover LR3 to drive itself

navigate confined indoor spaces while

Laboratory (and inventor of the Roomba).

60 miles through an urban road network

building high-resolution 3D maps.

Heartland’s goal is to introduce robots into places

while safely interacting with other cars

Eventually, we could use robots like this to

that have not been automated before, making

(both human and robot-driven) and obeying

give a detailed view of areas inaccessible to

manufacturers more efficient, workers more

California state traffic laws. There’s

people, such as an unstable building after

productive and keeping jobs from migrating to

something incredible about being in a car

an earthquake, or inside a nuclear reactor

low-cost regions. Thomson Reuters’ Venture Capital

while it’s driving itself around using the

with dangerously high radiation levels.

Journal recently ranked Heartland number seven on

software that you’ve written — when

its Top 20 Most Promising Startups list.

I didn’t actually get started in robotics

One project I was fortunate enough to

In general, robotics is exciting right now

I transitioned from academia to industry

photos: Jason Dorfman/MIT

Autonomous forklifts, vehicles and more: Albert Huang, shown “working” on a robot, parlayed an interest in computers into a career.

15


Engineering a Career

An MB “lifer,” Reva Street was noted at MB for her hard work and willingness to step off the beaten track to explore interesting ideas. She received the MB Faculty Award and held a range of interests, from music to sports, French to the GBSA. A three-season athlete, she also competed in crew, swim, and lacrosse.

Reva Street ’05 Our youngest featured alumnus in this future issue, Reva Street ’05 has distinguished herself in both art and science. After MB, she headed to Carnegie Mellon for her undergraduate degree, then her master’s in biomedical engineering. Now Reva is in a Ph.D program at Drexel University in Philadelphia,

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pursuing advancements in the field of spinal cord regeneration.

16

I WAS DRAWN TO BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING

with a similar material combination, but

the support forming the foundation of the

because of my interest in the behind-the-

now looking at applying this to guided nerve

entire medical industry. Working with

scenes aspects of medicine. A surprising

regeneration in the spinal cord. Again, the

materials manufacturers and contacts in the

amount of research has to go into even the

impetus is derived from the struggles of our

tissue bank industry has helped reinforce

seemingly simplest devices and treatments.

country’s service members who face

this perspective.

Essential implements, like surgical or

paralysis due to battlefield wounds. These

implantable devices, have even more

treatments also apply to the thousands of

Reva Street came by her propensity for both

stringent requirements involved.

people across the U.S. who struggle with

building and art from her parents. Reva is the

spinal cord injuries.

daughter of Randy and Kristin Street, longtime

range of interests, combining them into one

MB faculty (woodshop and art, respectively).

field. Biomedical engineering is dependent

personal motivator for me in doing this work,

Reva attended MB for 15 years and can be

upon collaborations, and covers a wide

as well as the many other patients who can

reached at revastreet@gmail.com.

range of disciplines: biology, chemistry,

benefit from these new advances in technology.

mechanical engineering, electrical

One of the really difficult things about spinal

engineering and materials engineering.

cord injuries is that they tend to occur in

Future possibilities: Reva says the science still has

people under 30, who then have a lifetime of

ways to go, but potential exists for spinal cord

on finding new ways to regenerate bone in

dealing with full or partial paralysis.

regeneration to become reality in the future.

craniofacial areas. The impetus for this

Treatments are being approached from many

research was the needs of soldiers wounded

my work is that the work I do is so far up

angles: pharmaceuticals, physical therapies/

on the battlefield who sustained serious

the medical device research pipeline. That

devices and surgical solutions. “There is definitely

head traumas. In some of these cases,

was especially hard in the thick of my

hope,” she says, “but it remains one of the body’s

enough skull bone is destroyed that the

undergraduate coursework, where it was a

most challenging medical issues.” Working with

body’s healing mechanisms cannot

lot harder to tie what I was learning in the

biomaterials that are early in development, it will

adequately close the area. I worked on

classroom back to my goals of helping

be at least a decade before Reva’s work will see

biomaterials that could be injected into the

patients. Now I have a better perspective on

clinical trials, if ever, given the nature of work-

site and help the body fill those areas in

how my education and research fits into the

ing within FDA constraints. However, these same

with new bone formation.

grand scheme of biomedical research, and I

regulatory mechanisms keep patients safe, she

can better appreciate how basic science is

says, terming them a “worthwhile hassle.”

Biomed also allows me to explore a wide

My research at Carnegie Mellon focused

At Drexel, I am extending my research

Veterans of current wars are definitely a

One of the most challenging aspects of


What Will Graduates Face in 2030? In December, Matt Glendinning introduced the MB 2030 Forum. Taking its name from our three-year-olds’ college graduation year, the 2030 Forum is a bi-annual summit. The first session included 20 community members, leaders from a variety of fields. The challenge presented was deceptively simple: What conditions will our graduates face in the year 2030, and how should Moses Brown evolve in order to prepare students for that future?

To answer that question, participants were led through a series of events by Matt, along with Seth Goldenberg and Charlie Cannon. Seth is a former VP of Bruce Mau Design in Chicago, and is founder and CEO of the innovation agency IP.21 Studio in Providence. Charlie is professor of industrial design and co-founder of the Innovation Studio at RISD. A ‘think tank’ by design, the MB 2030 Forum generated wide-ranging conversation and insight about numerous trends — past, present and future. For example:

> While ultimately unknowable, the future will be characterized by increasing complexity, the rapid pace of change, information

>

Persistent economic instability will challenge both public and private

overflow, and exponential advances in technology.

programs and student body, MB must enhance access, affordability,

> The world is shrinking, as new forms of communication, transportation, financial practices, and political policies bring global economies and cultures into close contact or conflict.

>

and long-term financial sustainability, e.g., off-setting rising costs with new sources of revenue and dramatic growth in the endowment.

>

In a changing future, MB will be well served by its historic strengths:

The value of traditional education is being questioned. Mastery of

communication, listening and research; promotion of ethical

for an emphasis on “softer” skills such as critical thinking (e.g., and adaptability; global savvy; collaboration; communication; and character (e.g., humility, integrity, resilience, accountability, empathy).

a core, liberal arts curriculum; a whole child approach (fostering intellect and character; mind, body and spirit); a strong emphasis on

concrete or technical knowledge, while important, must make way synthesis, judgment, evaluation of risk, problem solving); creativity

educational models. To ensure the continuing excellence of its

citizenship; and an expansive campus.

>

New pedagogies, directions, or initiatives that show promise for a changing future include: project-based learning and case studies; design thinking methodology; online learning; social entrepreneurship; travel and immersion experiences; internships; service and civic engagement.

MB Discernment Dialogues The conversations held at the 2030 Forum proved so effective that the school will expand this model over the next 12 months. A series of MB Discernment Dialogues with multiple groups will foster rich conversation and personal story telling. The goal is to design a collective vision for the future of a Moses Brown education.

Art by nursery students, MB ’26

17


Rebecca Biggs

Brooke Coleman

Jim Dickson ’05

Lance Evans

Katie (Evans) Goldman ’06

New generation MB: new faculty snapshot What are new faculty at MB like? Do they resemble faculty from decades past in any way? Take a look at this sampling of some of the teachers who are just beginning their Moses Brown careers. See mosesbrown.org and future issues of Cupola for more on our faculty.

Rebecca Biggs is MB’s lower school math specialist, a newly created

Lance Evans, fifth grade, has taught at independent schools across the

position. Becky previously taught in Moses Brown’s third grade

country — in New York, L.A., Boston, Providence and Maui. “I feel most

classroom and is in her second year at MB. Becky has ten years of

rewarded when I am teaching and learning with pre-teen and middle

teaching experience, with her B.A. from Colby and her master’s from

grade students,” says Lance. “The energy and exuberance fifth graders

Lesley. She has taught students in nursery through fifth grade. An avid

bring to school with them each day amazes me. I am excited to embrace

swimmer, she’s also coached at the high school and college levels.

the thoughtful model of Quaker education at MB.” Lance has 14 years of teaching experience and previously taught at Wheeler and the MET

Brooke Coleman joined the upper school math department this year after

School. Lance has his B.S. in business from UNH and a master’s from

teaching at Westtown School since 2003. A graduate of Mount Holyoke,

Emerson. He is a member of the lower school diversity committee.

where she captained the varsity soccer team, Brooke also completed the M.A. in education leadership at the Klingenstein Center of Columbia

Katie (Evans) Goldman ’06, middle school science, embraced the chance to

University. At Westtown, she ran a dormitory, trained and supported

return to MB this year: “It is through my advisor and teachers at Moses

the residential dorm faculty, and served on the upper school steering

Brown that I learned the power of giving others enough confidence to be

committee — while also coaching soccer, basketball, and tennis. At MB,

the people they want to be. They empowered me through learning, and I

Brooke is coaching girls’ JV soccer and advising MB’s GSA group.

am fortunate to have the opportunity to now do the same.” Katie

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graduated from Brown with a degree in neuroscience and anthropology

18

Jim Dickson ’05, upper school math, says, “Learning mathematics requires

and previously taught at Boston Trinity Academy. She also co-authored

creativity, logic, and intense study, precisely what Moses Brown students

the Go Ask Your Teenager cards, which received the iParenting Media

excel at. MB’s small class sizes are crucial to mathematics education.” Jim

Award. Katie oversees middle school robotics and coaches track.

graduated from Davidson, where he earned recognition for his work in math and community service. Jim began doctoral studies at Virginia Tech,

Katherine Hawkins, first grade, has her master’s in early childhood

but a change in advisor led to his coming to MB this year. Jim served as a

education from Bank Street College in New York. She has taught fifth

teaching assistant at Virginia Tech and also taught courses for their math

grade and served as an early childhood teacher at Tuxedo Park School.

department. He also is a nationally-ranked chess player.

“One thing that drew me to MB was the school’s dedication to


Katherine Hawkins

Allison Weitberg Jones ’96

ReAnna Laney

Beth Lantz

Justin Peters

“It is through my advisor and teachers at Moses Brown that I learned the power of giving others enough confidence to be the people they want to be. They empowered me through learning, and I am fortunate to have the opportunity to now do the same.”

— Katie (Evans) Goldman ’06

Responsive Classroom, Writing and Reading Workshop, as well as

Performing Arts (the “Fame” school) in New York City. ReAnna has her

small-group guided reading,” Katy says. “Moses Brown supports life-

B.A. in English from Lee University in Tennessee. With time spent

long learning, and encourages teachers to better themselves and

studying abroad in England and living in Paris, ReAnna brings with her

their teaching by attending professional development. I also love

a love of travel, reading, and learning.

working at a nursery-12 school; seeing all the ages walking around campus makes me smile.” Katy is assistant coach for the varsity girls’

Beth Lantz joined the upper school humanities department. After

soccer team.

graduating from Holy Cross, Beth pursued her M.A. in teaching at Simmons. She joined Berkeley Carroll in 2005. There, Beth served as a

Allison Weitberg Jones ’96, preprimary, has spent 12 years working in

class dean and chaired the assessment committee. “I believe that

schools, including Northern Virginia Friends School and Sidwell

history is more than just a collection of dates and facts,” says Beth, “but

Friends. She has her bachelor’s degree from James Madison University.

rather a discipline that provides us with countless stories to examine in

Allie previously worked at Gordon School for several years as director

order to understand our world as it is today. My approach to teaching

of after-school programs and nursery teacher. Spending summers

matches MB’s mission to guide students to becoming knowledgeable,

working at RISE camp led her to work with children: “It is a very special

caring and active global citizens.”

experience to join children at the beginning of their educational journey. It gives me great joy to meet young learners where they are

Justin Peters joined the performing arts department this year, teaching

and open the door to discovery and rediscovery as the world around

in the upper and middle schools. He earned his bachelor’s in music

them becomes their classroom!”

composition from Wittenberg University. Most recently, Justin served as choral director and music teacher at Lincoln School. At MB, he is

ReAnna Laney is MB’s new lower school librarian. Recently graduating

directing the middle school musical, serving as vocal director for the

with a master’s degree in information and library science from Pratt

upper school musical, advising the Versatones, and teaching Music

Institute in New York City, ReAnna previously worked as a library

Theory and Music & Computers.

assistant at the Berkeley Carroll School in Brooklyn. She also interned at the Collegiate School and at LaGuardia High School for the Arts and

19


MosesBrownSchool Place Speakers Afternoon Session, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.

Lives That Speak Thursday April 19, 2012

Jeff Cruzan Former Harvard research scientist, EMT, mountaineer, and current high school math teacher at Moses Brown School Louise Lamphere Anthropologist, gender scholar, advocate, professor at University of New Mexico, author Uday Kumar ‘90 Founder, iRhythm Technologies Inc.; cardiologist; inventor; fellowship director, Global Biodesign Programs at Stanford University Melissa Maxwell ’81 Television, film, and stage actress, director, dramaturge; guest artist/ director of dramatic writing at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts Don Sweitzer P ‘05 Chairman of GTECH, authority on global politics, business, and public affairs Sam Tsemberis Friend, founder and CEO of Pathways to Housing, mental health advocate

Melissa Maxwell ’81 Uday Kumar ’90 Carlos Andrés Gómez ’00

Evening Session, 6:30 – 9:00 p.m. Joan Countryman
 Friend, former head of school, Lincoln School; founding head of school, the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa; interim head, Atlanta Girl’s School Maria DeCarvalho P ’02 ‘05

IN THE SPIRIT OF IDEAS worth spreading, TED has created a program

Episcopal priest, performance consultant for courageous executives

called TEDx.

Carlos Andrés Gómez

Pushcart Prize-nominated poet; actor, Inside Man; author, Man Up.

TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people

together to share a TED-like experience. Our event is TEDxMosesBrownSchool, where x=independently organized TED event.

At TEDxMosesBrownSchool, TED Talks video and live speakers will

combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. The

Grammy winning artist in the spoken word category Debbie Humphries

individual TEDx events, including the one at MB, are self-organized.

Friend, international health, public health expert, Yale professor —

This independent TEDx event is operated under license from TED.

microbial diseases

TEDxMosesBrownSchool is shaped by the theme Lives that Speak, a

Donald McNemar

reference to George Fox, the founder of Quakerism, and his call to live

Friend, former President of Guilford College, former Headmaster of

daringly and with a bold sense of purpose. Speakers share their stories

Phillips Academy (Andover), senior lecturer at Bentley University,

and thoughts on listening to the voice within and on ways that our

expert in global studies/stewardship

Register early! The Future

Friend, storyteller, author, songwriter, teaching artist; two-time

TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but

lives reflect our passions and values.

20

Bill Harley P ’02 05

Meenakshi Narain Brown University professor, physicist, co-discoverer of the top quark particle Jenny Peek

TEDxMosesBrownSchool is offered free and open to the public, with a

Artist, entrepreneur, advocate, founder of the Manton Avenue Project

capacity for 1,000 in attendance. For registration information, please

Paul Sorensen P ‘02

visit www.tedxmosesbrown.com

Engineer and entrepreneur, philanthropist, co-founder, Hibbitt, Karlsson & Sorensen, Inc.


Moses Brown Alumni Association Alumni Connections Coast to Coast

The MB Alumni Association and Moses Brown School partner to provide opportunities for alumni to engage with each other and MB, near and far. To host an alumni event in your area or get involved with the MB Alumni Association, contact Alumni Relations Director Karin Morse at 831-7350 x191 or kmorse@mosesbrown.org.

Alumni & Friends Receptions in New York, Boston and Washington, D.C. The MBAA and Moses Brown School brought together local alumni in New York, Boston and D.C. for area receptions. Look online for photos of our March events in California and Florida.

Washington D.C.

With MBAA Board members Rich White ’84 and Adrian Hendricks ’58, D.C. alumni gathered at the city’s newest hotspot, The Hamilton, for an MB Happy Hour. In April, MB holds its D.C. Alumni & Friends Reception with Matt Glendinning.

New York City Boston

The World Bar was this year’s location for our NYC Reception with Matt Glendinning. Alumni from the metro area enjoyed the event, as did others like Jorge Tobon ’08 who had travelled from L.A. for an internship across the street at the UN.

In January, 42 alumni across the generations and numerous faculty, staff and coaches gathered at the Old State House for hors d’oeuvres and winter solstice cocktails and heard about Matt Glendinning’s priorities and the campus master plan.

Top: In what has now become a tradition, young alumni walked together to The Campbell Apartment to continue the night’s festivities.

21


Moses Brown Alumni Association Alumni Connections Coast to Coast

Congratulations to the MBAA’s fall 2011 award recipients, recognized at Homecoming. Darrell Ross ’65, Service to Alma Mater Award Darrell Ross has served MB in many capacities over the years, including 13 years as a member of the Board and as Chair of the Board for seven years. Darrell has been generous with his time and resources, always thoughtfully considering Moses Brown’s future. He has led his class reunion committees and was instrumental in the success of the Campaign for Moses Brown School. Darrell is a graduate of Yale University and also attended Harvard Law School. He was president of Ross-Simons, which began in 1952 as a retail store in Providence and became a nationally-recognized retailer of fine jewelry and luxury items. Today, RossSimons is a thriving multi-channel retailer of which Darrell is president and CEO. As he recently tweeted, “When I am not in the office, I travel the globe to find the distinctive jewelry Ross-Simons’ customers love.” Darrell and his wife Susan are proud parents of Leslie ’97, Meredith ’00, and Dan ’03 and in 2006 honored their family and Moses Brown with the establishment of Ross House, the newest building on MB’s campus. Marie Ewens Brown ’95, Outstanding Young Alumnus Award Marie Ewens Brown works in the U.S. Executive Director’s Office at the World Bank where she studies economic development issues in Africa as an advisor to the U.S. representative on the World Bank Executive Board. The World Bank’s primary focus is to provide financial and technical expertise to help reduce poverty around the world. The Bank is currently involved in more than 1,800 projects worldwide. Marie joined the U.S. Treasury Dept. in 2004 and worked on the Multilateral Debt Relief Initiative, which financed $60 billion in debt relief for the poorest

Homecoming

countries to the IMF and the World Bank. Thereafter,

The day was filled with alumni soccer, great games, a multicultural parents group and alumni

Marie moved to the White House to work as a director

panel, Johnny Rockets, and kids’ activities.

for African Affairs for the National Security Council during both the Bush and Obama administrations.

Homecoming Reception at The Squantum Club

Marie attended Columbia University and received

Alumni, faculty, staff and coaches gathered in the historic bakehouse overlooking the head of

her master’s degree in international relations from

Narragansett Bay.

Johns Hopkins.

22


The Quaker Classic On a gorgeous October day, the MBAA brought together alumni from near and far, including Michael Patterson ’65 and his son Andrew ’02 from South Carolina as well as Brad Engle ’05 from D.C. The tournament raised $8,338 for the Bliss Scholarship and $3,338 in support of local programming and events. Special thanks to the Golf Committee: Dave Keyser ’89, John Baldwin ’94, Phil Zexter ’81, George Panichas ’83 and Jason Engle ’98. Tournament sponsors who made the event possible were Foundry Orthopedics, stretch-tite, Lincoln Appraisal, Turfer Athletic and M.H. Stallman Company. Other alumni and friends supported the event through tee sponsorships.

Providence

Alumni Baseball & Hockey Games

18th Annual Skating Party at Meehan Auditorium

MB on the Move: Watch for future 2012 MBAA events including: May 23 Harpoon Brewery, Boston 23


The Moses Brown Alumni Association Board 2011-12

1948

The mission of the Moses Brown Alumni Association is to foster lifelong relationships with the school and fellow alumni. Stephanie Ogidan Preston ’97, Clerk

David Keyser ’89

Keith Monchik ’90, Assistant Clerk

Todd Machtley ’00

Timothy Rhodes ’80, Treasurer

George Panichas ’83

The class of ’48 enjoyed their annual gathering for luncheon at the Rue De L’Espoir on

Adrian Hendricks ’58, Recording Clerk

Brian Panoff ’94

Hope Street in Providence, joined by Matt Glendinning.

Taylor Rotondi Anderson ’02

John Pariseault ’97

John Baldwin ’94

Joss Poulton ’07

Angelo Bianco ’86

Brad Shipp ’83

Joyce Chang ’94

Ahvi Spindell ’72

82, USCG Auxiliary last January, 2011. In

Pamela Fishman Cianci ’91

Dawn West ’79

2010, they came in third out of nine flotillas.

Albie Dahlberg ’87

Richard White ’84

He hopes they will place second or first this

Jason Engle ’98

Thomas Wynn ’87

year. For their exemplary work, the Flotilla

Gina Guiducci ’97

Philip Zexter ’81

crew was invited to a personal tour of the

1948

Bill Myers ’48 assumed command of Flotilla

USCG Cutter Resolute, berthed in St. Peters-

Hugh Hysell ’83

burg, Florida. Bill is pictured with host Ensign Slater and Staff Officer Joseph Young.

1946 After 55 years, Charles “Alex” Robinson has retired from refereeing basketball at the high school, college, and professional levels. At his retirement party last December, he was made an honorary life member of referee associations. In addition to refereeing, Alex has organized more than 150 basketball camps nationwide. He moved to Freeport, Maine in July with Pat, his wife of 61 years.

1947

Thanks to Dean Woodman ’46 for donating several GoPro Hero mini-cameras to MB. Dean’s company produces best-selling wearable sports cams that capture footage by athletes skiing down mountains, riding motocross, skateboarding, and more. GoPro is the world’s leading activity image capture company. Knowing Head of School Matt Glendinning’s interest in sports, Dean sent some cameras to MB, and now students and alumni can gain a unique look at life on the MB campus. Visit gopro.com for more about the image-capture products that Dean’s company produces. Dean lives in Sausalito, California.

24

1947 Reunion 2012

August. “I was a day student at

Charles Staples continues to

paratrooper,” Charles says. “I

stay active through walking,

had very little in common with

Ed Desrochers writes from

stair climbing, and hiking.

my classmates other than a

Melbourne Beach, Florida,

Last summer, he and his wife

couple of other veterans. They

where he and his wife Shirley

Joan spent a week in the Colo-

might remember me if they

reside: “I retired from USAFR

rado Rockies. They also trav-

are still alive. I will be 86 in

as a Lt. Colonel and a Deputy

eled to Rhode Island and New

May.” Charles and his wife

Commander of the 482 Tacti-

Hampshire where they hiked

Beverly have five children. He

cal Fighter Wing, Homestead

in the White Mountains and

worked as an R&D physicist for

Air Force Base, Florida in 1983.

attended several classical

38 years at Dupont, GE, and

I owned and operated a con-

music festivals. In September,

IBM before retiring in 1990.

struction company that had

they went on an Elbe River

“Occasionally I shoot my age

mostly government contracts.

cruise in Germany and trav-

in golf,” he says. “I hope the

I live in Sugar Mountain, North

eled to Poland. Charles still

reunion is a great success.”

Carolina in the summer time. I

1948

recently talked to Bill Considine

volunteers at the Landmark Cultural Center in Chicago and

MB and a returning WWII

is looking forward to his 65th reunion in May.

1949

and we talked about Billy O’Connor, who we haven’t

Class Correspondent

heard from in years. We both

Marshall Cannell

lived on Shirley Boulevard in

Charles Watts and his wife

25 Sheridan Rd

Cranston.” Ed can be reached

Beverly live in North Carolina.

Wellesley Hills, MA 02481-5418

at ed.desrochers@earthlink.net

They celebrated their 63rd

781-237-0055

and says, “Help us find lost

wedding anniversary in

mca4nnell@aol.com

classmates!”


Class Notes 1955

Global Alumni: Martin Cassidy ’51 Jack Houriet ’55 and family.

Martin Cassidy graduated from MB in 1951 after spending eight years here as a boarding student. “The school greatly

1951

In May, Francis “Bud” Brooks (far right), former MB baseball captain and pitcher, attended a baseball

shaped my life and I value continued contact with MB,” he says. After graduation he attended Harvard College and pursued a career in international oil exploration.

game at the University of Texas

against Brown University with his

during the time when Gaddafi came to power in the

Martin lived with his family for four years in Libya,

grandson Grant (second from left).

September revolution. As a technical expert and manager

Graham Tyler ’08 (far left) played

of Pan American exploration effort, he worked daily with

for Brown, and Bud reports that he

Libyans, both Western-educated and desert dwellers. “One

made some nice plays at shortstop.

cannot know a culture by visiting for a few weeks,” he says. He recalls the “culture shock” that his family and coworkers encountered when working and living in that part of the

Thomas Benjamin still works at

In summer, the Leons return

world, experiencing daily life in Arab culture.

“There are certain basic truths which many leaders of

Harvard Medical School doing

to Newtown, Pennsylvania

needed cancer research. He

where classmate Jack Houriet

and his wife Mary Jo live in

lives nearby. Last year, the

culture. People are not the same all over the world. The

Class Correspondent

Brookline, Massachusetts.

Leons and Houriets got to-

system of society in a country is theirs. Living in a foreign

Jack Houriet

They have two sons, Ari and

gether to view an exhibition of

country, one cannot say they cannot do something just

2525 Turner Rd.

Noah. Ari is a sophomore at

the President’s Marine Silent

because it is not our way.

Willow Grove, PA 19090-1625

Oberlin College while Noah is a

Drill Team with the Marine

215-657-3786

junior at Brookline High

Band: “A truly inspiring event

not inserting ourselves forcibly in other countries. As I

jwhour@jwhour.cnc.net

School.

that these two Marines en-

learned on the MB playgrounds, you do not get long-term

1955

joyed immensely,” Jerry writes. Jeremy and Dottie also stay

the U.S. ignore,” says Martin. “All countries have their own

“How many lives and money could have been saved by

cooperation by hitting someone on the head.

Class Correspondent Jack

Donald Dwares and his wife

Houriet and his wife Alice

Bonnie became grandparents

busy with their six grandchil-

celebrated their 50th wedding

for the first time in June with

dren and recently visited Penn-

anniversary with sons Jack and

the birth of their granddaugh-

sylvania’s Westtown School,

Andy and their families in

ter, Maya Lenore Dwares, born

where beloved Headmaster L.

and service to others. Treasure these, for they lead to success

Puerto Rico last December.

to their son David Dwares ’92

Ralston Thomas served before

in international affairs and life in general.”

Jack writes, “We toured the

and his wife Catherine. Donald

coming to MB. Jerry says, “If

island and old San Juan, where

writes, “What a thrill! The

one ever gets a chance to roam

I was able to show them where

only problem is that they are

this campus after having lived

I grew up during my years at

living in San Francisco, so

the MB life, you will be re-

MB.”

fortunately for them, and un-

warded with absolute hospital-

Jack currently lives in Wil-

fortunately for us, we cannot

ity from the school faculty as

low Grove, Pennsylvania and is

just stop in and visit for a few

well as the student body. It’s a

on the board of the Boileau

minutes.”

must stop when passing

This past summer, Marc

for excellent health to all of

through Philadelphia.”

Williams and his wife Sara

my former class members.”

Farmstead. He adds, “Our

“So here is the point: at Moses Brown, one has a culture of

acceptance, thoughtful examination of other persons’ views, non-violence when possible, leadership through example,

1956 Please extend my best wishes

grandkids continue to be a

Jeremy Leon and wife Dottie

major part of our lives.” John

are enjoying winter in Naples,

In May, Charlie Wilson moved

tour of the eastern half of the

Continuing his work as

graduated from Geneva Col-

Florida with plenty of tennis

to Cape Cod to join his partner

United States in their motor

concert artist manager, Joel

lege and Drew attends Drexel

and inviting warm weather. He

Irene. He says that this next

home. Highlights of the trip

Altman shares that his client,

University. Nick completed his

reports that a tradition has de-

phase of retirement “calls for

included a visit to Westminster

pianist Roberto Plano, will be

Eagle Scout project and will at-

veloped in nearby Punta Gorda

less work, less aggravation,

College, site of Churchill’s Iron

playing at this summer’s

tend Drexel this fall. Mason’s

where Houghty Wetherald,

and also less money.” Charlie

Curtain speech, and Galena,

Newport Music Festival. The

objective is to get his Eagle

Marc Williams ’56, and Jerry

has also started a small but

Illinois for the national Pack-

program will include the U.S.

Scout award by the age of 15.

meet at a local restaurant for

fun business called The Tool

ard show. Marc adds, “We have

premiere of works by the

Alex completed his school year

some reminiscing each winter:

Doctor which caters to the

enjoyed visiting many dear

Italian composer Andrea

with straight As.

“It’s great to see one another.”

Cape’s gardening community.

friends while on this journey.

Luchesi.

went on a Presidential library

25


1962 Reunion 2012

Paul Hodge is chair of the Global Generations Policy Institute (www.genpolicy.com) and director of the Harvard Genera-

Peter Dwares married Leilani Pilar at the Fairmont

tions Policy Project. Paul recently returned from a daunting

Orchid in Hawaii, Big Island last November. Their

three-week around-the-world adventure/research initiative.

three-and-a-half-year-old daughter, Chloe, attends

He says the trip was fantastic and included a Kate Winslet

Marin Day preschool. Pathways For Kids, which

walk-on, a CNBC Michelle Caruso-Cabrera report, Athens

Peter founded in 1998, is in its 13th year. Peter

riots, Madrid protests, being teargassed by Athens police,

also started a real estate investment/development

having his Athens digs set on fire by rioters, riding one of

company in 1974 which he says has been holding its

the world’s fastest trains, experiencing a Tokyo/Fukushima

own despite the challenging economy. Of his fellow

nuclear leak alert, and having his China videos appear on in-

1961

ternational TV. See Paul’s adventure video trailer at youtube. com and research blog at http://genpolicy.com/blog.

classmates, he writes, “I continue to feel sad about the loss of David Leach and Jodi Wells, but was very, very happy to have dinner with Rick Turner, Rob MacColl, and Peter Winslow in San Francisco this year. It was a lot of fun. I was also happy to host a joyous evening with many local alumni for our guests Matt and Katherine Glendinning and Ron Dalgliesh.”

Congratulations to Darrell Ross ’65, honored this fall with the MBAA’s Service to Alma Mater

1962 Reunion 2012

Award. Darrell has served MB in many capacities over the years, including 13 years as a member of the Board and as chair of the Board for seven

Rick Turner’s classmate Joe Lovett submitted a photo

years. Darrell has always looked to MB’s future

of Rick’s Pretzel Guitar (1969), which was in the

in his work on behalf of the school.

“Crafting Modernism” exhibit at the Museum of Art and Design in New York City. Rick lives in Santa Cruz, California. To see more of Rick’s work or see clips of John Mayer and Van Morrison playing Rick’s guitars, visit www.renaissanceguitars.com. Joe wrote, “Pretty cool, Rick!” We agree!

Global Advocate: Marshall Meyers ’57

1971

Marshall Meyers ’57 spent his career as a lawyer in

Led by Steve Bienenfeld, local members of the class of 1971 came out in force

Washington, D.C., but you won’t find him behind a desk

to donate blood for a classmate in need. The group met on a Saturday morning

often. Working on aviation issues led him to travel the

at the Rhode Island Blood Center (left to right): Peter Gross, Scott Wolf, Steve

globe, advocating for regulation in the pet industry and

Bienenfeld, Jess Eschenheimer, and Perry Buroker (from MB’s alumni office).

pursuing other projects around the globe.

After Haverford, Marshall attended Penn Law and

joined his father’s law firm in Washington, D.C., specializing in aviation work. Marshall also moved into environmental and animal law and has represented the pet industry and biomedical research communities for 40 years. “We deal with cutting-edge legal issues — animal welfare, endangered species, research ethics, invasive species, wildlife, animal diseases, and socioeconomic-legal issues.” For the past decade, Marshall also has been working on a project to bridge rifts in the Middle East.

When going full swing for the pet industry and his

MyMB: “The curriculum at MB stands out the most for me, as well many of whom I’ve been friends with for more than 50 years. If I had to characterize a Moses Brown education, I’d call it effective, secure, quiet and exciting. MB is a tremendous part of your life. Once you’re here for even a short time, you remember it forever.” — Stanley Milton Wick III ’71, interviewed at Reunion 2011. A 12-year veteran of MB, Stan was interviewed at Reunion last year. He lives in East Greenwich. He is shown with students Erik Matson, Tom Rice, and Ben Sack.

overseas projects, Marshall traveled upwards of 200,000 miles a year in the air. His work has taken him to more than 115 countries. He still hopes to visit the only continent

1971

as the teachers and the camaraderie with all my classmates,

1957 Reunion 2012

Frank Dougherty shares an update after almost 55 years:

officer and captain in the U.S.

“I received my B.A. in psychol-

Air Force. I am married with

Class Correspondent

ogy and completed a graduate

children and have my civilian

Jerry Knowles

degree in clinical psychology at

pilot license. I am a DIYer,

60 Blackstone Blvd.

Antioch College. I also got my

boater and published writer.

Providence, RI 02906

Ph.D. in clinical psychology at

My nickname at MB was ‘Doc.’

my future by steering me to Haverford. Looking back, I

401-421-9788

the University of Southern

Who would have thought I’d

realize more and more the great influence MB had on me.”

bigthundur1@yahoo.com

California. I was an avionics

become one!”

he’s missed — Antarctica. MB memories: “My post-MB journey has been a great trip,” Marshall comments, “that I would never have dreamt of when sitting in study halls or having Basil Meserve chart

26


Class Notes 1965

Sulloway Spurred On Frank Sulloway shown winning the 1000yard race against Governor Dummer in 1965, helping the team go undefeated for the season. Frank Sulloway ’65 ran track and cross country at MB. At one point, to spur him on, Coach King “Doc” Odell offered to give Frank a very expensive chronographic watch he owned, which Frank often used to time himself during interval training — but the offer was good only if Frank broke the long-standing school record in the half mile. Although the half-mile record eluded Frank, under Doc’s coaching, Frank became the New England indoor mile champion and broke the school record in the mile, running 4:28 in his last meet. Running continued to be an important part of his life at Harvard, where he competed on the varsity team. “Running became engrained in my psyche,” says Frank, “as I transferred what I learned from endurance training to scholarship. I spent 26 years researching and writing Born to Rebel and have sometimes felt that each year I spent on this book was like each mile of a marathon. My predilection for endurance sports also has come in handy during my expeditions, as we pack 70 pounds of equipment up and down 5,000-foot volcanoes on the Galápagos’ uninhabited islands.”

Conservative commentary: Carl Bogus ’66

See page 8 for more about Frank’s work and post-MB path.

Congratulations to Carl Bogus ’66 on his newest book Buckley: William F. Buckley Jr. and the Rise of American Conservatism. Carl says the book focuses on how Buckley changed the modern conservative movement.

1971

“I am a liberal,” says Carl, “but I have maintained a strong

interest in the intellectual history of the political right ever since an MB English teacher, Alvah Sulloway, assigned me a research paper titled ‘The John Birch Society: Threat to Freedom or Defender of the Republic?’” This was considered a plum topic, as the John Birch Society was then a somewhat mysterious and controversial group. Sulloway often assigned the same topic year to year so students were, in a sense, competing against those who had preceded them.

“Mr. Sulloway was an unusual teacher,” comments Carl.

“He was a graduate of Harvard Law School who had practiced law, and he taught his students not only how to write well, but how to write persuasively. His students learned a great Scott Wolf (front, middle) enjoyed returning to Reunion

1967

this past spring. See page 10 for more on Scott’s work leading Grow Smart Rhode Island.

deal about critical reasoning. Mr. Sulloway also stressed the importance of rigorous research, both primary and secondary.”

Because the John Birch Society was then headquartered

in Massachusetts, Sulloway insisted that as part of his research on the ‘radical right,’ that Carl travel to Belmont and interview one of the Society’s officials. “It was the highlight of my MB career,” says Carl, “when Mr. Sulloway informed me that I had done such a good job on the paper — no one,

Herbert “Chip” Tucker

he said, could ever do better — that he was retiring the topic. It is no coincidence that my book contains a long section University of Virginia. He

gasoline and convenience store

writes, “This trip is not

with locations in Ohio,

business as usual, so let’s see

Kentucky and West Virginia.

Herbert “Chip” Tucker is unable

each other at the amazing

He and his wife Connie re-

to make his 45th reunion this

50th instead.”

cently celebrated their 35th

1967 Reunion 2012 May because he will be out of

wedding anniversary. They

about how William F. Buckley Jr. excommunicated the John Birch Society from the conservative movement.” Carl Bogus is a law professor at Roger Williams University in Bristol. He also is the author of Why Lawsuits Are Good for

the country on a Fulbright.

Peter Lacaillade is president

have two sons, Peter, 30, and

America and editor of The Second Amendment in Law and

He is taking a sabbatical year

and CEO of Certified Oil

Nicholas, 28. Peter and Connie

History. He was recognized by Common Cause for his work on

from teaching English at the

Company, an independent

live in Boston.

separation of powers in Rhode Island.

27


1972

1976 1975

Bob Riesman (second from left) enjoyed seeing classmates

Tony Aponte ’75, director of educational services

Howell Smith, Mike Gordon, and John Blacher at his book-

for the Boys’ Club of New York, visited MB while

signing at Books on the Square. Bob published a biography

in Rhode Island where he was working to place

on blues musician Bill Broonzy, I Feel So Good: The Life

students in independent schools. Tony came to

and Times of Big Bill Broonzy. This is Bob’s first biography.

Moses Brown in 1971 through this program and

He attributes his interest in blues and folk music to

was a dedicated athlete and actor at MB. Tony

Providence’s late ’60s scene and coffeehouses.

visited Barry Marshall’s drama class to speak

Class of 1976 — May 2011 Reunion

with students about his experience in Broadway productions and how this experience shaped who he is today.

1976 Joe Dziczek and Mark Hallett got

1972

together at Joe’s place on Cape Cod last summer. Mark writes, “Leslie, our younger son Alex, and I visited with Missy and Joe during a vacation that took us through NYC, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania, visiting family and friends before heading back home to Lynchburg, Virginia. Joe

Michael Voccola ’76 recalls that as senior class president of MB’s last

and I are both looking forward to our

all-boy class, he looked into developing an on-campus parking area

(OMG!) 40-year reunion this spring.”

for students to alleviate on-street parking and enhance security. “I did a complete budget and sought proposals from contractors,” says Michael. “The school didn’t embrace the idea; in retrospect, that was my first taste of seeking a development approval!” See page 12 for

Ahvi Spindell writes, “For one of my

more on Michael’s career in real estate development in Providence.

clients, United Spinal Association,

“The beauty of real estate development is that one realizes tangible

I have been at the forefront secur-

results of one’s efforts,” Michael says.

ing media coverage regarding their lawsuit against New York City. This will mandate wheelchair-accessible taxis under the Americans With Disabilities Act when new taxis are purchased in the future.”

1972

1974 P. H. Liotta ’74 is now the Thomas Hawkins Johnson

1972 Reunion 2012

world’s newest democracy and they still live in a world where

Jon Bell is president of Simply

political parties are essentially

Sight & Sound (simplysas.

tribal,” he says. “Now I’m back

com), a custom installation

in Prague, one semester shy of

and home theater business in

getting a master’s degree in

Providence. He enjoys skiing as

geopolitics at Charles Univer-

often as possible.

sity (1348), the oldest in central

Richard “Hardi” Parker served

Europe. Should be able to get

as guest editor for this issue

an instructor’s job at Charles

of Cupola and interviewed

or a U.S. extension university

classmate Parker Ramspott (see page opposite).

1975

Visiting Scholar at the United

Richardson Kovar is currently

once I’m finished, or another

States Military Academy

living in Prague. Rick decided

job at an international school.”

in West Point, New York.

to go back into teaching and

The author of 18 books and

spent 2009-10 in the Balkans

1977 Reunion 2012

1978

Several ’78 classmates gathered this past July to

numerous articles, Peter’s latest

teaching American history

work is The Real Population

and political science at the

Class Correspondent

Arkway ’78. Honoring Andy’s

Bomb: Megacities, Global

American School of Kosovo

Gordon Ondis

lifelong work for environmental

in Pristina. “I did a special

43 Duncan Ave.

and social welfare causes, the

project on critical thinking

Providence, RI 02906

group gathered at a spot dear

and democracy for juniors and

401-831-5636

to Andy, the Aquidneck Land

seniors, since Kosovo is the

gordonondis@gmail.com

Trust.

Security & The Map of the Future.

28

celebrate the life of Andy


CLIENT: Laughing Dog

Raglan Jersey

DESIGN NAME: 2007

Art Time Elapsed:

ZIPPER: Full

Date:

Class Hr.Notes

7/20/07

Parker Ramspott ’78, Owner, Laughing Dog Bicycles, Amherst, Mass. Interview conducted by Richard “Hardi” Parker ’78 Parker Ramspott came to Moses Brown in the ninth grade from Dighton-

Portland, Oregon and Paris, France, require public/private investment, but offer

Rehoboth. Known affectionately as “Spott” by his friends, Parker was one of his

“grab and go” convenience for bike use, which could open it up to a whole new

class’s more colorful characters. Often seen on a skateboard, and wearing a

segment of the population.

swordfish-billed cap, Parker was known for his diverse musical interests and related opinions on the subject.

After MB, Parker went on to the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.

Graduating in 1983 with a B.A. in English, Parker took an unusual turn and almost immediately became a small business owner. Now, more than 25 years later, Parker, with his wife Ann and daughter Helen, remains in the “Happy Valley” where he owns and operates Laughing Dog Bicycles. Please tell us how you entered your profession. I really didn’t want to take my GREs or go to graduate school, and an opportunity presented itself at Bicycle World Too, the predecessor to my current business. I started there as a “wrench,” working as a mechanic on bicycles in 1984, and bought into the business later that same year. What are your primary likes and dislikes with your profession? I really enjoy the variety of tasks, the independence, and doing it all. As for dislikes, taxes are right up there, along with whiny, self-involved customers. Bicycles are “in” and definitely part of the green movement. How do you see bicycle use in the U.S. and the future? Bicycle manufacturing is an off-shore industry, with only a few niche domestic producers. Virtually all frames and components

Does your store focus on any particular market segment? In line with our college town environment, Laughing Dog’s primary focus is on transportation and utility, not on the rarified and high end, “all about me” bikes. Our customers ride their bikes to get to class and get their groceries. They get used. The “How to” link on your website is really good! I take it you believe in an educated customer. Yes, or at least a customer who is willing to be educated, rather than a customer who is simply responding to a trend. So what about the dog, Max? You really need to read the page on our website. Max is the logo, and in his day, he was a town fixture. He was brilliant; he was a good dog. Some of your friends consider you a Luddite. Why? I guess I am simply mistrustful of modern communication. However, I do have an email, which I occasionally even read. You can contact me at parker@laughingdogbicycles.com, but don’t expect a response. Are you still in contact with any fellow MB alumni? I’m still in touch with a few: Dave Woronov ’78, Hardi Parker ’78, and, until this past summer, Andy Arkway ’78.

are manufactured elsewhere. As a result, while we feel good about riding bikes

Do you still play the guitar, and what music are you into these days? Oh yes, I am

and polluting less, we have essentially exported our pollution by manufacturing

still playing the guitar. As for music, it’s probably safer to ask me what I’m not

in countries with fewer regulations.

into!

That said, bicycles are an integral part of our future transportation model, as

long as the U.S. invests in mass transit and required infrastructure. This means parking for bikes and the ability to bring a bike onto a train or subway, so bicyclists can connect to transit.

Beyond that, bicycle sharing systems, like “Yellow Bike” and the ones in

Any sage advice from a small business owner? Laughing Dog Bicycles started in 1998 when the Bicycle World Too name was retired, to address a change in ownership. Real advice in today’s economic climate: maintain your independence and limit your economic exposure.

29


1985

Skip Davis is living in the Ukraine and writes, “My previous contract to help prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction has ended. However, you can usually count on me for doing something unusual anyway.” This past fall, Skip was on his way to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, leading an effort to build an integrated management “dashboard” to help the Saudi Arabian government monitor the design and construction of 800,000 homes for its people. Skip says King Abdullah’s new initiative resulted from the Arab Spring, last

Cheryl Schadone Cohen ‘81: At the Dunk

year’s series of revolutions that took place throughout North Africa and the Middle East. “It is a massive

Most MB alumni don’t go on tour with World Wide Wrestling.

initiative, you may have noticed recently, is the granting of voting rights to women.”

As marketing director for Providence’s Dunkin’ Donuts

Center (affectionately known as “the Dunk”), Cheryl Cohen has enjoyed a varied and interesting career and is now a key part of the Providence entertainment landscape.

Over the past ten years, Cheryl has worked with artists

ranging from Andrea Bocelli to Led Zeppelin (and everyone in

outreach program designed also to introduce some reforms into their country,” Skip wrote. “Another Skip also continues to visit Peru frequently (shown) and says his first trip there was a direct result of his time at MB. The upper school sponsored an informational session about study abroad during Skip’s senior year, with Peru one of the opportunities presented. He went to Peru in 1985 for a semester and returns frequently to visit his godson and family and to help do cultural preservation. While there, Skip learned the ancient art of Andean sling braiding: “The art is now mostly lost and I’m trying to reintroduce it into the region. I go down to give classes each year,” he says. Skip is shown in Ollantaytambo, Peru, along with a photo of one of his sling recreations.

between), major touring family shows, NCAA National Championships, worldwide pay-per-view specials and a host of national sporting events. Cheryl says, “2012 will be another

1982

outstanding year at the Dunkin’ Donuts Center. I will be working with several top-named artists, the Harlem

Kristen Murray Porcaro ’82 and Vinnie Porcaro ’83

Globetrotters, Disney on Ice, World Wrestling Entertainment,

gather with new MB graduate Sonny Porcaro ’11

and more.” Cheryl also will be involved in the local marketing

and his younger brother, Luke ’24, a member of

launch of two new national tours: “How to Train Your

MB’s kindergarten class.

Dragon” and Cirque du Soleil’s “Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour.”

“I am sure that everyone has their favorite story from

here and many of them saw their very first concert at the Civic Center/Dunk!” says Cheryl.

Cheryl’s career spans more than 25 years in the

entertainment industry. Cheryl started her career in at the

Congratulations to Jamie Worrell – Jamie won the 2011

Warwick Musical Theatre, where she was responsible for all

PlanSponsor “Retirement Plan Adviser of the Year”

marketing and public relations for the theater. After

award by PLANSPONSOR Magazine. Jamie works at

graduating from Wheaton, Cheryl spent summers in Rhode

GPS Investments in Providence.

Island working at the theatre and winters working for a

1985

concert entertainment production company located in Arizona.

Prior to joining the Dunk, Cheryl was a senior marketing

representative for World Wrestling Entertainment. Her

1979

1981

Kristen’s dad, Wayne Curtis, former MB faculty member

responsibilities included marketing and promoting

Peter Kilmarx and his wife

nationally-televised events and worldwide pay-per-view

Nicha moved to Harare, Zim-

Kristen Curtis Marcks writes,

specials throughout the U.S., Canada, and Australia.

babwe from Dulles, Virginia;

“My mother Ginny Nelson

Peter is the director of the U.S.

Curtis is the most courageous

Centers for Disease Control

woman in Rhode Island and

Class Correspondent

and Prevention Office, focusing

this year’s ALS Association of

Ashley Haffenreffer Wagstaff

on HIV prevention, care, and

Rhode Island Brian Dickinson

136 Highland Ave.

treatment. Peter writes,

Courage Award Recipient.”

Rowayton, CT 06853

“Among other things, Zimba-

Ginny was honored at the 15th

917-941-9412

bwe is a tourist destination

Annual Evening of Hope in

ahwagstaff@mac.com

with fabulous weather, game

where I am today,” says Cheryl. “The teachers, staff, and

May. She was featured in a

parks, and Victoria Falls. Y’all

video for the event, which can

Class Correspondent Ashley

coaches at MB taught me to take on challenges and persevere.

come visit any time. See you

be found on YouTube. Also

Haffenreffer Wagstaff writes

The skills I acquired at MB have been the key to my success.”

on Facebook!”

interviewed in the video is

“Reunion is coming up in May.

Cheryl joined the management team of the Dunkin’

Donuts Center in 2002 and was recently appointed as a regional director of marketing for SMG, the management company for the Dunk. Cheryl oversees the marketing efforts in more than 15 SMG arenas along the Eastern seaboard and in Puerto Rico.

30

“My days at MB were the most valuable in leading me to

and beloved lacrosse coach.

1982 Reunion 2012


Class Notes 1985 Dr. Lisa Rocchio ’85 P ’14 ’15 ’21 has joined the MB board of trustees. Lisa has a doctorate degree in psychology and is a clinical and forensic psychologist with a practice in Johnston. Married to Vincent Giordano ‘83, Lisa has three children at MB. She has been an active parent and alumni volunteer, and lives with her family in East Greenwich. Lisa’s professional expertise lies in the areas of interpersonal violence, traumatic stress and ethics. Lisa is a founding member of the American Psychological Society’s Division 56, an organization focused on research and policy development in the field of psychological trauma. She is current president-elect of the Rhode Island Psychological Association.

David Everett ’81: Principal Planner / Environmental Coordinator for the City of Providence When people ask “What do you do?”, it usually implies “How

Neil Beranbaum ‘86 P’22’24 is a frequent presence on the

do you make a living?” When that question is posed to David

MB campus and one of MB’s newest board members. Neil

Everett ’81, he usually makes a point of mentioning his

and his wife Randi have three daughters, two in lower

painting (and sometimes writing) in addition to his job as a

school. They live on the East Side. Neil has been buying

city planner in Providence: “I like to think it’s all related,” he

and building companies for more than 20 years and is

says.

co-founder and partner of United Waste Management, a

regional waste and recycling company with operations in

David’s interest in urban studies and planning stems from

an aesthetic sensibility and love of nature that started as a

Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Neil received his B.A.

young child. As a child he drew and painted, and took art

from Emory University and his law degree from the George Washington University Law Center. Neil has been an active

1986

reunion volunteer and alumni event attendee.

classes with Gino Conti in Providence and also at MB, particularly in middle school. “My talents were writing and drawing,” David says, “as well as most team sports, and I

Albie Dahlberg ‘87 accompanied his son Eric to school one day this winter. Eric is now a student in

managed to finesse the rest. My upbringing on the East Side of Providence and my MB education in grades 6 through 10 gave

sixth grade at MB. See page 14 for more on Albie’s

me a solid foundation and helped me to nurture my creativity

work as founder of Project Get Ready Rhode Island.

— especially in writing (hats off to Beth Taylor and Richard Nutt) and my career and avocation flowed from that and continue to evolve.”

1987

To David, love of nature went hand in hand with painting

and drawing — about beauty and how things connect. He spent time in northwestern Connecticut, read Rachel Carson and John Muir; eventually, environmental advocacy seemed a logical extension of his interests — and let him continue to draw and write.

1987

In college, he was initially an English and art major,

switched to urban design studies at NYU to be more Meri Bleeker Goette lives in St. Louis, Missouri with her two children, Davia, 8, and Trystan, 10. In January, she took a position as an account director at Paradowski Creative, a St. Louis-based marketing agency. A few years ago, she joined a women’s soccer team. She writes, “Our only goals are to have fun, avoid injury, and beat the other team.”

“practical,” took time off and worked at Save the Bay on land use issues, and eventually got a master’s in city planning from MIT with a concentration in environmental design and development. Since then, he has worked primarily as a land use planner, mainly in New York, Connecticut, and Rhode Island, but has spent considerable time on artistic projects as well (“perhaps to the occasional detriment of professional

Let’s see if we can all give

advancement”).

(large and small gifts are ac-

dence; she has taught there for

cepted) and show up. 30 years

seven years and in Providence

ballet school for the New York

is something to celebrate!”

for 18 years. E3 is a Providence

City Ballet company. Our

current job as a planner for the city of Providence, much of my

public school, located on

daughter Amanda is a growing,

work is concerned with what can broadly be termed

Kristen Porcaro’s son Sonny

Branch Avenue. She is the

independent, force of nature.

‘environmental,” David says. “This includes promoting

Porcaro ’11 graduated from

English Language Arts teacher

They continue to amaze us.

Moses Brown in June. Kristen

sustainable development, supporting urban agriculture,

leader and also serves on the

My husband Doug is continu-

says it was an emotional day

district’s curriculum writing

ing to do his senior partner

drafting flood zone regulations, and harbor management

under ‘The Shadow of the

team.

thing at Paul Weiss and I am

Elms’: “Another generation of MB graduates!”

enjoying the challenges, free-

“While I cover a wide range of projects and issues in my

planning. Meanwhile, my artwork has come to be dominated by nature, usually far from any city, almost to the exclusion of the imprint of humankind.”

Rachel Littman writes, “Life is

doms and creativity of working

still busy and going well for me

in higher education adminis-

and my family in New York.

tration at Pace Law School in

David has two daughters, Annabelle (18) and Viola (7), and lives in

Our son, Adam, was recently

White Plains, New York. I hope

Warren. He can be reached at deverett2663@gmail.com and has a

Stephanie Morrison is a teacher

accepted to the School of

everyone is well. We are look-

Facebook page: David Everett, Painting and Drawing. He is currently

at E Cubed Academy in Provi-

American Ballet, which is the

ing forward to reunion in May!”

planning a probable show at the Audubon Center in Pomfret, Conn.

1987 Reunion 2012

31


photo: Stephanie Alvarez Ewens

1995 1993

Jake Bliss traveled from California to New York City to support and compete in Ethan Ruby’s charity poker tournament. Jake also represented the charity this year at the World Poker Tour Celebrity Invitational in Commerce, California. In its seventh year, Poker4Life has raised more than $1,000,000. The charity of choice has been The Buoniconti Fund to Cure Paralysis, which maintains an unprecedented 86 cents of every dollar going directly to research.

Marie Ewens Brown, shown with her husband Charlie and daughter Anna, was honored this fall with the Outstanding Young Alumna award.

1995 The Mobray brothers gathered with Tia and Dan Gareau’95 at MB’s NYC gathering this past fall.

MB Innovator: Barrett Bready ’95

1991

Congratulations to Barrett Bready ’95, M.D., named Rhode Island’s Innovator of the Year this past fall. Barrett is CEO of Nabsys, Inc. in Providence. The Rhode Island Innovation

few years, I’ve gotten back into

Awards were presented by Providence Business News in

playing live music, switching

partnership with the Rhode Island Economic Development

from drums to guitar and vocals.”

Corporation, honoring Rhode Island companies, organizations and individuals that replace existing methods,

Kristin Santopietro Pugliese is

models and products with better ones.

living in Atlanta, Georgia with

her husband. She created

Nabsys is a life sciences company working at the

Note Knacks Music in 2009 to

intersection of physics, biology and computer science to develop an electronic solid-state DNA sequencing platform.

John Knowles ‘91 and his wife

NABsys’ vision is to power DNA sequencing and analysis by

Noel, shown here on the Cape,

using solid-state systems coupled with innovations in

live in East Providence.

chemistry and algorithms to achieve increased accuracy, speed and cost. These systems are being designed to address a broad range of applications, from analysis of DNA structural variation, to sequencing of targeted genes, to whole-genome sequencing. The levels of performance being targeted will dramatically impact biological research in

1990

1991

provide music educators with the tools needed to make music more accessible for

Class Correspondent

young children. Kristin recently

Hillary Monahan Ramos

visited Karin Morse and Steve

289 Main St.

Toro on the MB campus.

Hampton, CT 06247

1992 Reunion 2012

401-952-4552 hillaryramos@gmail.com

Class Correspondent

many fields. NABsys was the first company to receive a

Class Correspondent

John Knowles ’91 and wife

Kelley Ciampi Wigren

“$1000 Genome” award from the National Human Genome

Julie Reitzas

Noel live in East Providence

8 Juniper Rd.

Research Institute of the National Institutes of Health for an

1688 Drift Rd.

with their four cats and puppy.

Wellesley, MA 02482

electronic approach to sequencing.

P.O. Box 302

John writes, “I’m coming up on

781-235-4512

Westport Point, MA

five years with Fidelity Invest-

kelleywigren11@yahoo.com

02791-0302

ments (longest I’ve ever been

508-636-6928

employed at one company),

tnbjr@msn.com

working at their Smithfield,

Barrett has been named one of the top “30 under 30” in

New England by Mass High Tech: The Journal of New England Technology and one of “25 movers and shakers” in the state by Rhode Island Monthly. Barrett co-chairs BioGroup, Rhode

1993

Rhode Island site. Last January,

Jason Weiss received his M.F.A.

Jeffrey Geller ’90 and his wife

I started an MBA program at

degree from the University of

Gabrielle welcomed their first

Southern New Hampshire Uni-

Florida. Over the past two

Providence Preservation Society and WaterFire. Nabsys is

child in July. They are city

versity with a tentative gradu-

years, he has been a member

located in Providence’s Jewelry/Innovation District.

planners for New York City.

ation in mid-2015. In the last

of the resident acting company

Island’s biotechnology industry organization, and serves on boards for the Brown Medical Alumni Association,

32


Class Notes 1997

This December, Gina Guiducci ‘97 married

1996

Stephen McKinnon ‘97 in New Bedford, Massachusetts. The ceremony was held at St. James Church, followed by a reception at the New Bedford Whaling Museum with all-local menu and libations: “Truly, a very special day spent having A Whale of a Time!”

1997

Allison Weitberg Jones has joined Kathy Ryan in MB’s pre-primary classroom this year. Allie has spent the past 12 years working in schools, including Northern Virginia Friends School and Sidwell Friends. Allie previously worked at Gordon School for several years as director of after-school programs and nursery teacher. She is thrilled to rejoin the MB community. Her daughters also joined the Baby Henry Cabot Earle is pictured with

MB community this year – Lyla in nursery and Ava in first grade.

grandmother and former staff member Anne Earle. Henry was born last June to proud parents Christina and Cabot Earle, who live in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Where are the women? This issue of Cupola looks to the future and includes a profile on several alumni who attended MB when it was still officially a boys’ school. In future issues, Cupola hopes to expand coverage of female graduates. MB alumnae: do we have your most recent info in our database? Do you know of a female classmate with an interesting story worth featuring in Cupola? Let us know. Email alumni@mosesbrown.org or our managing editor at kcurry@mosesbrown.org.

at the Hippodrome Theatre which is the state theatre

1994

1997 Reunion 2012 Class Correspondent

of Florida. There he has performed in such plays as

Daniel Gilbert writes, “Just

Cara Camacho

The 39 Steps, Boeing Boeing, and

wanted to let my old MB

401 13th St. NE, Apt. 105

Dracula, among others. He

friends know that I released

Washington, DC 20002-6316

moved to West Hollywood,

my first album this summer.

401-742-4658

California in August and would

It’s called The Great Recession

cara.camacho@gmail.com

enjoy catching up with any

Goodbye, and you can check

alumni who might be out west.

it out at your favorite online

Another MB alum sighting:

Gina Guiducci lives on the

Contact him at jason.weiss@

music store or at www.dangil-

Last year, MB staff perusing

East Side, not too far from

mac.com.

bertmusic.com.”

Rhode Island Monthly saw that

the beautiful MB campus: “I

says. Gina also is a new

Hyun Kim ’97 and his mother,

especially love the vegetable

member of the Moses Brown

Sook, had opened a new Korean

garden.” Gina works as a

Alumni Association board.

food truck in downtown

dietitian for Brown University

[Note: Friends Garden was

In October, Rebecca and Mark

1995

Silverman welcomed Zachary

Most recent MB Reunion: come back!

Leo to their family. Zach joins

Dan Gareau, recently married,

Providence. They operate

and is a columnist for The

created at MB as an environ-

his older sibling Alex, now 4.

is now teaching at Rockefeller

Rhode Island’s first Korean

Providence Journal’s Monday

mental education center on

They live in Washington, D.C.,

University. Dan attended the

BBQ truck. It was cited in RIM’s

wellness section, “Thrive.” “I

campus. The garden also has a

where Mark works for the

NYC event in November with

annual “Best of” issue and is a

am passionate about health,

service mission with student-

International Committee of

Tia Gareau and shared details

completely local operation. See

wellness and nutrition and

grown vegetables donated to

the Red Cross.

of his latest research.

www.mamakims.us for more.

love the work that I do,” she

Camp Street Ministries.]

33


2000

In October, Jacob Brier and his wife Dani welcomed a son, Soren Jon Brier. Pictured the day before Soren’s bris is great-grandfather Milton Brier ’46, father Jacob Brier, Soren (2030?) and grandfather Jeffrey Brier ’71. Also in attendance at the bris were Jim

1998

Engle ’71, Scott Wolf ’71, John

Former library staff members Judith Lewis and Ricky Brightman as well as

Blacher ’72, and Soren’s great

current staff Paula Lopes and Melanie Lindell are pictured with the newly

uncle Neil Brier ’70.

married Kimberly Lewis LeBlanc. Kim and Barry LeBlanc were married at Bittersweet Farm in Westport, Massachusetts last May. Kim is a massage therapist at the Beach Plum Spa in Plymouth, Massachusetts. She and Barry reside in New Bedford.

Solving the Data Dilemma: Irving Fain ’98

1999

Albert Huang ’99 is working in robotics in Boston. See page 15 for an update on Albert’s work today.

Irving Fain is CEO and co-founder of CrowdTwist, a company that helps brands create customer loyalty with a platform that allows users to earn points for activities online. “CrowdTwist is the only multi-channel brand loyalty platform that is fundamentally changing the way marketers build rewarding relationships between brands and people,” Irving says. Customers include Pepsi, The Miami Dolphins, and

Manish Naik ’92, Kirstin McCarthy

JCPenney.

’99 and her fiancée Eric, and Cara

Vileno ’97 gathered at the Hamilton

Before founding CrowdTwist, Irving ran digital marketing

for the February D.C. Happy Hour.

and social platforms for Clear Channel Radio Digital, developing and implementing strategy for 1,000+ radio stations nationwide.

Before becoming a media entrepreneur, Irving worked in

the world of finance. He spent time as a venture investor and an investment banker, specializing in raising capital for early stage companies.

Using social media as a business tool: Wiley Cerilli ’98

1998

2001

2002 Reunion 2012

In response to the last Cupola,

Class Correspondent

Class Correspondent

Kyla Rudnick writes, “Hi, I just

Liz Donat

Jason Engle

saw the listing of MB alumni

957 NW 63rd St.

12 Marsden Court

who served in the Peace Corps

Seattle, WA 98107-2215

Seekonk, MA 02771

and a call for who else has

401-864-9600

401-475-4342

served. I served in the Peace

emdonat@gmail.com

jasonengle@littlekidsinc.com

Corps in Ghana from 2006-

1999

2008. I did a master’s interna-

Emily Glinick continues to work

tional program with Peace

as a freelance stage manager

Corps and Washington State

in New York City, primarily for

Wiley Cerilli ’98 of SinglePlatform is another alumnus at the

Class Correspondent

University and did research for

Lincoln Center Theater. She

forefront of new technology and business models. Wiley was

Kirstin McCarthy

my master’s in environmental

spends most of her summers

highlighted in Business Insider in an article on the Top 25

1751 New Hampshire Ave., NW,

anthropology while serving. I

working with the Chautauqua

Startups in NYC in 2011. Two of the highlighted companies

Apt. A

know it’s far in the future for

Theater Company. She is close

were founded by Moses Brown alums from the class of ‘98

Washington, DC 20009

MB students, but master’s in-

with fellow classmates Zara Se-

401-447-5770

ternational degrees are inter-

rabian-Arthur and Edith Palm-

kirstinmccarthy@yahoo.com

esting programs that combine

ieri, who also reside in New

course work with Peace Corps

York City.

including Wiley’s startup (SinglePlatform) and Irving Fain’s (CrowdTwist).

Wiley’s company, SinglePlatform, works with restaurants

Karissa Bollengier Thrall and

service for the completion of

her husband Steven welcomed

an M.A. or M.S. degree.” Kyla

Jake Hays has been on the road

their first child, Charlie

lives in Seattle and can be

and out of the country. He just

interest from Google. Wiley was previously the executive vice

Thomas, in May. They live in

reached at kylarudnick@

finished an M.A. in philosophy

president of SeamlessWeb.

Warwick.

yahoo.com.

(with a focus on environmen-

to bring their menus and businesses online and recently partnered with Foursquare. Wiley’s start-up has also attracted

34


Class Notes 2002

Three MB alumni

Tech Sociality: Drew Harry ’01

joined the Moses Brown Alumni Association board this year: Gina Guiducci ’97 Ahvi Spindell ’72 Taylor Rotondi Anderson ’02

Drew Harry is a Ph.D. student in the Media Lab at MIT, Sergeant Will MacLeod ’02 came home in September for two weeks of leave after seven months of daily combat southwest

working specifically in the Speech + Mobility group. He worked in the Sociable Media Group from 2006-2008. Drew is

of Kandahar, Afghanistan. His girlfriend Maura Strickland is the

interested in designing, building, and studying systems for

assistant varsity field hockey coach at Moses Brown. Will is a

technology-mediated sociality.

Cavalry Scout with the 4th Squadron, 4th Cavalry, 1HBCT, 1st

Infantry. While on leave, Will got together with Julia Shaw, Kara

that can be used to complement some other social

Foley, Andrew Patterson, Vark Markarian and many other friends.

situation,” Drew says, “like a lecture, business meeting, class

Will returned to Afghanistan and safely completed his deployment

discussion, or large-scale live events. I joke sometimes that

in December. He had a grand visit with Christian Sorensen at

all my work is secretly about helping introverts manage

Christmas and hopes to attend his 10th reunion at MB in 2012.

“My work focuses on designing communication systems

introversion by creating new communication channels where it’s easier to participate and feel like part of a group.”

Learn more or see videos on Drew’s website at http://

web.media.mit.edu/~dharry/.

2001

Matthew Fishbein writes, “Hello to all my classmates and friends! I married my love, Jackie Asadorian Fishbein, in September! Vark Markarian, Jimmy Falcon, and Derek Freeman all stood by my side. Sara Farley and Peter and Kathy Shank were also on hand to celebrate this momentous occasion. Hope all is well and I look forward to seeing everyone at our 10th Reunion this May!” Matt works in annual giving/ alumni affairs at Thayer Academy in Braintree and also coaches Thayer’s football team.

Congratulations to Becca Rotelli ’01 and Matt Mignanelli ’01 on their wedding! In attendance were several MB alumni: Seamus Deegan, Amanda Gannaway, Adam Pennacchio, Adam Mignanelli ’03,

tal ethics) at the University of

Hayden Jones, Ashley Silvestri ’05, Matt Holland, Veronica Rotelli Vacca ’97, Michael Vacca ’96, Kate

Montana and arrived in NYC

Brier ’02, Kyle Rotelli ’04, Michael Jacober, Chris Rotelli ’99, and Kate Sullivan ’96. Becca and Matt live

in June. Jake is working as a

Jenny Moniz is happy to have

program director for an organi-

finally settled into her new

zation called PSE (Physicians,

apartment on Beacon Hill in

Scientists, & Engineers for

Boston. She is eager to catch

Sustainable Healthy Energy).

up with any alumni in the area

Aside from a recent trip to

when she is not busy working

Banff, Alberta, and a spring

on her business, Ivy Sit.

trip to Moab, Utah, his

2003

A quick scan of the alumni list at the Leadership Rhode Island website indicates several LRI

Montana for the past two

Aaron Tracy finished his mas-

Several other MB community members join them, including current parents Paul Adler,

years. Jake graduated from

ter’s in healthcare manage-

Lori Basilico and MJ Kaplan; past parent Carolyn Benedict-Drew; and MB Communications

Connecticut College in 2006

ment at Duquesne University

Director Sandi Seltzer. Are you a Leadership Rhode Island alumnus, too, or doing work here

and has several stories to re-

in June. In August, he started

in our state worthy of mention in Cupola? Updates welcome: send a photo/note to alumni@

port. Before Montana, he lived

medical school at Sackler

mosesbrown.org for our next issue.

in Hawaii working as a bee-

School of Medicine in Tel Aviv,

keeper and in Alaska working

Israel. One of his classmates is

as a dog musher/handler.

Aaron Abrams ’05.

adventures have been centered mostly around western

in New York City.

250 Lloyd: fertile ground for future Rhode Island leaders? graduates with MB connections: Alan Axelrod ’72, Paul Boghossian ’72, and Neal Pandozzi ’91.

35


MosesBrownSchool Place

Reva Street ’05 can now be found in Philadelphia, pursuing a doctoral program at Drexel. “Drexel is a great place to be doing innovative research!” Reva says. “The school has a major focus on engineering co-ops, emphasizing the importance of

A few MB alumni are presenting at the TEDx event taking

collaboration between academia and industry. The city of Philadelphia is also full

place at Moses Brown on April 19. “Lives That Speak” will

of hospitals, schools and companies that offer opportunities to make contacts. I

feature Melissa Maxwell ’81, Uday Kumar ’90, and Carlos

love the city; once my work is done for the day, there is a wealth of history, arts,

Andrés Gómez ’00. Some MB parents are also featured: Bill

2005

Harley P’02 ’05, Don Sweitzer P’05, Paul Sorensen P’02, and

theater, restaurants and museums to explore.” See page 16 for more from Reva.

Maria DeCarvalho P ’02 ’05. See more on page 20.

2004

photos: Veolia

Willis Monroe married Hayley Lacis this past October at the Great Friends Meeting House, a beautiful building dating from 1699 in Newport. In attendance were Bill Domineau ’07, Dylan Block-Harley ’05,
Mike Blackman ’04, Lanny Fox ’05, Dan Gardiner ’03, Jon Smalletz ’04 and Zac Brenner ’04. Willis and Hayley have a blog, about their wedding and about their summer working in Turkey. Enjoy! http://hayleyandwillis.com.

2004

Moving Ahead: Dan Winston ’05 Ted Parker married Heather Harken last August. He met his wife at freshman orientation at

After two years in management consulting, Dan Winston ’05

Middlebury College and they were married at Mead Memorial Chapel on the Middlebury

has moved into transportation, hoping to focus on making

campus. John Campopiano was best man and Ted’s brother Matt ’00 and classmate Dan

urban communities great places to live and work. “Public

Ostroff were his groomsmen. Pam Priestley also attended. Heather is a teacher at the Mary

transportation is a big part of that,” he says. Dan works for

McDowell Center for Learning in Brooklyn and received her master’s in special education at

Veolia Transportation, a Paris-based company that manages

the Bank Street College in New York. Ted is presently teaching high school English at the

public transit networks in cities and towns across the world:

King School in Stamford, Connecticut.

“We run commuter rail in Boston, streetcars in New Orleans, and also taxis and airport shuttles.”

Dan is transition manager for the start-up of Veolia’s

2004

Class Correspondent

public-private partnership to operate the bus system in

Kori Burnham

Nassau County, New York. “This is an amazing chance to

1872 Commonwealth Ave.,

Hannah Schofield is back at

play a role in a project that could completely change the

Apartment 10

MB, as a long-term substitute

passion for Shakespeare, serv-

public transit industry,” he says. “Nassau is a cash-strapped

Brighton, MA 02135

in the middle school, through

ing as a coordinator for the

suburb of a big city, like so many others across the country.

508-954-3981

June. Hannah is teaching

Brown University and Gamm

kori.burnham@gmail.com

English for Maureen Nagle,

Theatre Shakespeare Institute

2005

now on maternity leave.

and as an actor, assistant

Hannah earned her B.A. from

director and dramaturge of

Bryn Mawr College in English

the Bryn Mawr Shakespeare

Class Correspondent

and her M.A.T. from Brown

Performance Troupe.

Nick Artenstein

University. Last spring, while

Hannah’s drama background

538 East Ave.

Nassau County — and could also transform the way cities,

completing her final course-

will certainly help as MB

Pawtucket, RI 02860

work at Brown, Hannah was

middle schoolers study A

counties and states across the U.S. think about their transit

401-413-1265

hired to teach English and

Raisin in the Sun and Romeo

systems.”

nick.artenstein@gmail.com

advise at Wheeler. She has a

and Juliet this year.

We’re trying to make the best use of limited funds for such important goals: transporting 100,000 people every day to jobs, schools, or hospitals; keeping our drivers and other workers well-compensated members of the middle class; and minimizing the burden on Nassau County’s taxpayers. Our project will have tremendous impact on the residents of

36


Brochure Inside FINAL.pdf

1

11/22/2011

9:40:51 AM

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CM

MY

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CMY

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37


1953, 1980, 2011 Sarah Engle graduated magna cum laude from Brown with a B.A. in psychology. She works as an assistant buyer at Bloomingdale’s in New York City and also teaches SAT classes for Kaplan.

2007

photo: Annie Potash

2010

Three generations: Bob Oresman ’80, his dad Dick ’53, and son David ’11 gathered for a photo at graduation this past May. David is now is in his freshman year at Syracuse.

2006

Anne Goldberg is working on her master’s of classical composition at the Manhattan School of Music in New York City. She is the founder and artistic director of her own dance company and music collective, the Synthesis Aesthetics Project. Featuring

Jack Ryan ’10, now in his second year at MIT, had an interesting summer.

original music and choreography

He landed a job writing code for the MIT nuclear lab. Jack is a nuclear

by Anne, the company is a non-

science and engineering major, interested in clean energy. He also

profit organization that focuses on

competes on the varsity rowing team and is the fourth fastest freshman

bringing the arts into schools and

in MIT’s history.

communities around New York and New England.

2007 Reunion 2012 Class Correspondent

Kelly Pearson works for

Lindy Nash

Cannon Design, an architec-

1312 Narragansett Blvd.

ture and engineering firm in

Cranston, RI 02905

Boston, Massachusetts.

401-527-0896

2010

linden.nash@conncoll.edu

2008

base for Tufts in 2011. The team finished their season

Class Correspondent

Class Correspondent

Last summer, Alexandra Bicki

Class Correspondent

with a 27-9-1 record and won

Jamie Gilson

Nate Silver

worked at Clinica Esperanza in

Natalie Triedman

their second straight New

100 Prospect St.

2046 W Cortez #2

Olneyville developing clinical

283 Wayland Ave.

England Small College Athletic

Providence, RI 02906

Chicago, IL 60622

research projects to improve

Providence, RI 02906

Conference title.

401-421-1640

Home 401-272-3319

Hispanics’ access to health-

401-575-3142

silver.nate@gmail.com

care. She credits Señora Baez

nkt387@aol.com

2009

2006

jmgilson425@gmail.com After a semester studying in

and Señor Flaxman for her Evan Ruppell is a first-year

ability to communicate well

Sam Sager, currently a senior

Class Correspondent

Paris last fall, class correspon-

medical student at Lake

with patients. Alexandra will

at Tufts University, signed

Betsy Tammaro

dent Jamie Gilson had another

Erie College of Medicine in

be graduating from the Univer-

on to play with the Harwich

69 Londonderry Way

“fantastic and significantly

Greensburg, Pennsylvania. He

sity of Miami in December and

Mariners of the Cape Cod

Uxbridge, MA 01569

warmer” second semester at

participated in his white coat

hopes to begin studying for her

League this past summer. Sam

401-477-6545

the University of Southern

ceremony in October.

master’s of public health soon.

started all 37 games at third

betsy.tammaro@gmail.com

California in the spring.

38


Class Notes

1980s At their eighth grade graduation last June, Class of 2015 alumni children smile with their parents from left to right: George Panichas, III, George Panichas, Jr. ’83, Mindy Fischer Penney ’84, Bobby Penney, Heather Handrigan Ross ’85, Hayden Ross, Gregory Schadone ’85, Danielle Schadone, Vin Giordano ’83, Gabby Rocchio-Giordano, and Lisa Rocchio ’85. There are a total of 12 alumni families in this year’s MB freshman class including Bernie Buonanno III ’84 and his daughter Meghan, Stephen DeLeo ’79 and his son Stephen, Jr., Marc Janigian ’82 and his son Leo, Tim McCahan ’80 and his daughter Olivia, Charles Milot ’76 and his son Bret, Matt Slepkow ’88 and his son Cal, and Phil Zexter ’81 and his daughter Lily.

MyMB: Molly Sullivan ’11 2011 Alumni Office Summer Intern Interviewed at Reunion 2011 When you think of Moses Brown, what are the first words that come to mind? One word is community. There is a huge sense of community at MB, especially when you have lower, middle, and upper schoolers all together. We’re not isolated from one another, there’s a lot of interaction. When did you come to MB? What did you think at the time? I came to MB in fourth grade. In terms of my overall Moses Brown experience, I don’t really think my little ten-year-old brain would have ever predicted half the things that I’ve done and what I’m going to do. How would you describe a Moses Brown student? Everyone at Moses Brown is really open to learning about other people. Everyone has different interests but there’s kind of this mutual sense of respect, and openness and understanding of each other that I don’t think is as present in other schools. Was there any particular teacher or experience at MB that really helped shape you? The science and English departments: both departments are just fabulous in terms of teaching, and being really helpful and inspiring. While at MB, Molly was a member of the debate team, Student Alumni Association, Media Club, and Environmental Club. Molly is now a freshman at the University of Southern California.

Share your own comments on this issue at our online survey page visit www.mosesbrown.org • email alumni@mosesbrown.org comment at facebook.com/MosesBrownSchool

Send news/notes/photos/feedback for the next issue to:

Susan Cordina, Class Notes Editor

Alumni Relations

Moses Brown School

alumni@mosesbrown.org

Become a FAN of Moses Brown at facebook.com/mosesbrownschool Log in to CAMPUSLINK, MB’s online directory, at www.mosesbrown.org SEE photos and videos from the past year at MB Follow MB on TWITTER | Be sure we have your personal email address At Reunion 2011, several alumni and fami-

to send E-NEWS with info on special events and regional gatherings

lies gathered: Hugh Madden ’84’s family,

near you.

Todd Grant ’84 and his son Tyler, Rich Bache ’06, Allison Weitberg Jones ’96 and daughters, and Tom Andrew.

39


In Memoriam Moses Brown publishes memorial notes based on published obituaries. Please forward to Office of Alumni Relations, Moses Brown School, 250 Lloyd Avenue, Providence, RI 02906; fax (401) 455-0084; email alumni@mosesbrown.org.

Everett White, Class of 1938, attended Brown

Samuel Parsons, Class of 1940, graduated from

Charles Edwards, Class of 1947, a graduate of Brown

University and was employed by the Providence

Harvard and Boston University Law School. In World

University and Harvard Law School, served in the U.S.

Journal Company for 38 years. He was a fighter pilot

War II, he served in the Navy as a Quartermaster First

Navy as a lieutenant on the USS Fletcher, DDE 445. He

in the U.S. Army Air Corps in World War II serving in

Class on the WWI Battleship Nevada at Normandy and

practiced law at Edwards & Angell with a brief

China with the Flying Tigers of the 14th Air Force,

in the Mediterranean, was on the new destroyer

interval as Assistant Attorney General of Rhode Island

23rd Group, 75th Squadron. Everett was a member of

Hawkins, and was in Tokyo when the war ended. Sam

in charge of the civil division, and later had a private

First Baptist Church in America, St. Johns Lodge #1

worked for 35 years at the Old Colony Trust Company,

practice in Little Compton. He was proud of his pro

F&AM and the Roger Williams Family Association. He

where he became a vice president in the trust

bono work with the American Civil Liberties Union,

served the town of Barrington as chairman of the

division, working as a portfolio manager

defending such rights as pro-choice, Indian land

board of tax assessors, was past president and

concentrating in pension trusts. He was a sailing

rights, fair housing, and free speech. He served on the

director of the Advertising Media Credit Executives

enthusiast with a particular interest in classic wooden

boards of Hospice Care of R.I., Providence Players, the

Association and a director of the National Newspaper

sailboats. (11/5/11)

Charitable Fuel Society, Little Compton Historical

Purchasing Association. (9/26/11)

Society and the Sakonnet Preservation Association.

James Elder, Class of 1942, was a graduate of Brown

(8/20/11)

Robert Allen, Class of 1939, the first student to

and had a long and distinguished career as a financial

represent Moses Brown in a sailing regatta, graduated

analyst, most recently with Janney, Montgomery &

Richard O’Neil, Class of 1949, a U.S. veteran, was

from Brown University where he was on the sailing

Scott. A WWII Navy veteran, he was a member of the

executive director of American Standard, Inc. He

and tennis teams. Bob joined the U.S. Coast Guard,

Providence Art Club, the University Club, Barrington

lived in Placentia, California. Dick and his wife

serving on the Cutter Calypso, and was executive

Yacht Club and Barrington Congregational Church.

Jacquelyn had six children and were longtime regular

officer on the tanker Michigamme. He worked for G.P.

James and his wife Helen had four children and

supporters of Moses Brown via annual gifts. Dick was

Metcalf, Franklin Processing Co. and owned

several grandchildren. (1/2/12)

a day student, commuting from Edgewood. He spent

Barrington Yarns until retiring. A member of the Barrington Yacht Club, Bob also delivered for Meals on Wheels and St. John’s Church Meals and enjoyed flying kites at Colt State Park and Bailey’s Beach. (10/20/11)

only one year at MB, post-grad, but said, “It was the

John Cady, Class of 1945, an avid sailor, graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy where he crewed on the yawl, Royono, for the renowned Bermuda Race. He served in Korea aboard the USS St. Paul, and later

best year of my school days. I cherish the people I met, the memories and education I got at Moses Brown.” Dick competed on MB’s football and wrestling teams. (6/3/11)

aboard a number of nuclear submarines. Pete

Tristram Coffin, Class of 1939, attended Haverford,

commanded the USS Seawolf and the FBM nuclear

Malcolm Chace, Class of 1952, a Yale University

then spent three years in the Army Air Corps and

submarine USS George Bancroft. After retiring from

graduate, began his career as a private investor at

Signal Corps during WWII. He received his M.A. and

service as captain, Pete brought his nuclear

Chase Manhattan Bank and returned to Providence to

Ph.D. from the University of Pennsylvania. Tris taught

engineering expertise to several companies in the

participate in the family businesses. He founded Bank

at Denison University for nine years, then returned to

New York tri-state area. He volunteered at the

RI and remained as chairman of the board and

Penn where he taught until his retirement. He co-

Strawbery Banke carpentry shop and was active with

succeeded his father on the board of Berkshire

founded the university’s department of folklore and

the Strawbery Banke croquet group. (3/24/11)

Hathaway, Inc. One of Kim’s proudest moments in

was an internationally known folklorist. His books include The British Traditional Ballad in North America and The Book of Christmas Folklore (a Book-of-the-Month Club selection). Dr. Coffin hosted the national PBS show Lyrics and Legends and edited the “American Folklore” series for Voice of America. Tris also loved sports. He served as tennis pro at Point Judith Country Club for 23 years; coached the Denison tennis team to five titles; and authored two books on the sport. He also coached soccer at Denison and refereed soccer for 15 years in the Philadelphia area. Tris always felt the most satisfactory accomplishment of his life was, without ever having played soccer, taking over the Denison University varsity team which had gone 0-10 in 1955 and, with the same squad, winning the Ohio Conference league in 1956 with a 6-2-2 record. (1/31/12)

support of the arts in Providence was the opening of

Ormston Aldred, Class of 1946, a Korean War U.S. army veteran, attended Brown University. Following his father and grandfather, he was an executive at Gladdings Department Store in Providence. Orm retired to Utica, New York and worked for his friends

the Rhode Island School of Design Chace Center. In recognition of his dedication to Rhode Island education, he received honorary degrees from Brown University, Bryant University and Johnson & Wales University. (6/23/11)

at Express Systems Integration and later became a private consultant. While in Rhode Island, he was a

Robert Mirando, Class of 1952, graduated from the

member of the Barrington Yacht Club. (5/13/11)

Babson Institute of Business Administration, then worked at his family’s company, Imperial Knife Associated Companies, Inc. He established R.P.M. Metals, working as a metallurgic consultant to several manufacturing companies throughout New England and New York. Bobby’s avid interest in automobiles drew him to participate in some SCCA races; he was owner of Mirando Toyota and Mirando Motors, Inc. Bobby was an avid Notre Dame football fan and, in retirement, published a vacation magazine about Cape Cod and the Islands. (7/10/11)

40


G. Phillips Kelly, Class of 1954, a graduate of Amherst College and Columbia School of Business, began a 17-year career at Bloomingdale’s in New York while a graduate student. He became chairman of Marshall Field’s Chicago Division, president and CEO of J.W. Robinson’s, in California, and president and CEO of Garfinckel’s, Washington, D.C. When Marshall

Louis Jackvony, Class of 1965, a graduate of

Sarah Crane, Class of 1991, graduated from Lake

Field’s became the target of a hostile takeover, Phil and

Villanova and Suffolk University Law, practiced law at

Forest College and received her M.A. in higher

business partner opened up Mallard’s, a popular chain

his father’s firm, Jackvony and Jackvony Attorneys at

education administration from Suffolk University.

of men’s clothing stores, around the corner from

Law, and was North Smithfield town solicitor. He was

She was associate director of admissions at the

Marshall Field’s flagship store. Phil was president and

the founder of RI Title Services, Ltd., was licensed as a

Wentworth Institute of Technology and a board

actively planned the successful expansion of privately-

real estate broker and president of Olde Towne Realty,

member for the New England Transfer Association.

held Almacenes De Prati in Guayaquil and Quito,

Inc., as well as a Florida licensed title agent and

One of Sarah’s greatest joys was spending summers

Ecuador. He served on the board of the Museum of

founder of Eastern Title and Closing Services Inc of

with family in Glen Arbor, Michigan. (8/25/11

Contemporary Art in Chicago. (4/5/11)

Merritt Island. Recently Louis attended Providence College, pursuing a master’s degree in American

Edwin Howell, Class of 1956, studied civil

history. (7/28/11)

engineering at the University of Pennsylvania on a

Michael Bono, Class of 1998, lived in Georgia with his family: wife Heather and twin children, Aiden and Emma. Michael served in the U.S. Army with the

Navy ROTC scholarship, then served with the Seabees

Paul Warburton, Class of 1971, attended Dartmouth

501th Airborne in Iraq and was stationed at Camp

in San Diego and on Christmas Island, taking part in

and graduated from Providence College, majoring in

Merrill in Dahlonega, Ga. He previously had been

the final above-ground nuclear tests in the South

history and playing hockey for both schools. He

stationed in Alaska. After Moses Brown, he attended

Pacific. Following his naval service, Ted worked for

worked in the claims department of Metropolitan Life

Alfred University. Mike was a devoted father. While

the Peter Kiewit Construction Company before

Home & Auto and was a sports writer for several local

an MB student, he competed in lacrosse and track for

starting Howell Estimating Systems. He volunteered

papers. He enjoyed tennis, ping-pong, traveling and

the Quakers. (3/17/12))

with the town of Seekonk, Edgewood Yacht Club, and

swimming at the beach. In 2010, Paul accomplished a

the First Unitarian Church of Providence. An avid

lifelong dream by publishing a book on his beloved

sailor, Ted sailed in the Newport to Bermuda Race as

sport of baseball entitled Signature Seasons: Fifteen

well as the regular Tuesday evening series at

Baseball Legends at Their Most Memorable 1908-1949.

Edgewood Yacht Club on Narragansett Bay. (6/22/11)

(10/2/11)

Donald Troppoli, Class of 1958, served in the U.S.

Seabury Waring, Class of 1973, a graduate of Ohio

lacrosse. After graduation, Evan remained in

Army. He was employed by Laserfare, Imperial Knife

State, was a self-employed welding engineer and

Colorado, working as a ski instructor and enjoying the

and most recently as a purchasing manager for

certified welding inspector. He was a member of the

powder at Vail. He particularly enjoyed spending

GTECH. Donald lived in Rehoboth for the past 30

American Welding Society and the American Society

summers with his cousins at his grandmother’s home

years. (6/30/11)

of Nondestructive Testing. Seabury was a parishioner

in Mattapoisett, Massachusetts. (11/2/11)

Evan Spirito, Class of 2006, loved team sports and played football, hockey and lacrosse at MB and, more recently, was a dedicated MB coach for the latter. He was a recent graduate of Colorado College where he majored in economics and played football and

of Sacred Heart Church in East Providence and a

James Pearson, Class of 1962, a Florida Atlantic

member of People of God’s Love prayer community. (6/26/11)

Former Faculty/Staff

Education Association. He graduated in the charter

Andrew Arkway, Class of 1978, a longtime Rhode

Jane Rotch Boissevain taught French, coached, and

class of Nova University Law School and practiced law

Island resident, worked at the Roger Williams Park

was a member of MB’s Residential Community from

in Broward County for 35 years. James served in

Zoo and then as stewardship director of the

1981–1985. She graduated from Williams College and

several civic organizations and was a founding

Aquidneck Land Trust. His premier project while at

lived for two years in Switzerland where she attended

member of the Broward County Prologue Society.

the ALT was the five-mile-long Sakonnet Greenway

the Valmont School in Lausanne. After MB, she

(6/30/11)

Trail. Andy was a great outdoorsman, who loved

volunteered at Youth for Understanding and worked

mountaineering and skiing. He learned to climb in the

for Amideast in Washington, D.C., the Weldon-Cooper

MB Field House with Dave McNab. Andy was a

Center for Public Service and then the Center for the

member of the Narragansett Bay Wheelmen and lived

Study of Mind and Human Interaction. Joy then

in Newport. (7/8/11)

served as associate director of the Center for Global

University graduate, taught in Broward County and served as a field representative for the Florida

Roger Davis, Class of 1964, served in the U.S. Air Force National Guard as a technical sergeant. He worked as a technician for the Hawaiian Telephone Company and as a maintenance supervisor for Certified Management, Inc. Roger lived in Hawaii and had 23 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. (11/5/09)

Health. Recently, she was awarded her master’s in public health from the University of Virginia where she was also recognized for her years of service with the Leonard Sandridge Award for Outstanding Contribution to the University. (10/5/11)

41


Former Faculty & Staff Upper school math teacher Bill Whitmore writes from Maine: “Teaching at Moses Brown … to this day I still tell people it was the best job I have ever had. I remember clearly the June day in 1986 that I drove off the Moses Brown campus for the last time, not sure if I was doing the right thing. I felt the pull to return home to Maine but I knew that I was leaving something special. MB had, and still has, it all: a motivated student body, dedicated faculty, strong administrative leadership, and an amazing commitment from its alumni. Teaching at MB as my first job after college was tremendous preparation and training for my future. In many ways I feel like I have a degree from MB as well.”

Bill taught for three years in Portland, then took a job as an actuary for Blue

Storytime at MB, another time.

Cross and Blue Shield. He still works for Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Maine as vice president of underwriting. “Health insurance has been a particularly dynamic industry to work in over the past few years,” Bill says, “given the current administration’s focus on health care.” He spends his nonwork time running, cycling, and relaxing with family. Bill lives in Falmouth with his wife Kay and teenage children, Abigail and Alex. “Abigail inherited her mother’s beautiful soprano voice and plays clarinet, piano, and tuba,” he says. “Alex followed more in my footsteps and competes at basketball, baseball, and golf. Life is busy, but great.”

Bill still calls many of his MB colleagues good friends and even ran a half-

marathon in Providence with Ted Fischer ’83 last year. “Thank you, MB, for all you did for me,” he writes. Say hello to Bill at william.whitmore@anthem.com.

MB faculty member Marga Jones circa 1971.

Alumni still recall the works Robert Clough (upper school English, 1968-77) assigned in class. Robert left MB to chair his own English department at Hamden Hall CDS in 1976. From there, he switched to alumni relations at Cranbrook School where he became point person for two capital campaigns. Robert assumed his first director of An ’89 alumnus recently wrote in

development position at Cheshire Academy, then transferred to Vermont Academy to complete two more

looking for news on former faculty

campaigns. Robert spent a year at Viewpoint School in California before taking his first higher-ed, home-satellite

member John Baird (1981-1989). John

position with Norwich University.

is now head of school at Westtown

School in West Chester, Pennsylvania.

my dean and I have an ambitious pact to facilitate new College of Engineering facilities, so I currently have some

Read more about John today at

job security. Though I find less time to read for pleasure, I always enjoy John Irving and occasionally revisit a

www.westtown.edu.

classic. Having been involved with Project Discovery at MB, I continue as a faithful Trinity Rep subscriber. Finally,

“I’ve since been with the URI College of Engineering for 15 years,” he writes. “I’m certainly eligible to retire, but

for those who might remember a couple of my personal interests, yes, I still drive a Porsche and downhill ski.” Contact Robert at rclough@foundation.uri.edu.

42


Bigelow steam boilers installed in MB’s power plant in 1940.

Endowment fuels the future Imagine if you never had to buy gas for your car! That’s what a strong endowment and your legacy gift can do for MB. Like a smooth running machine, Moses Brown’s fiscal engine is powered by income received through tuition, charitable donations and annual distributions from endowed funds. A legacy gift to MB is an investment in the future that fuels the school’s ability to build long-term financial sustainability on a

foundation of increasing endowment income. The school uses the annual income distributions from the endowment to help ensure that we are providing the best education possible; from funds that support great teaching to particular program areas and scholarship. You can set up a named, endowed scholarship

or faculty chair, or provide endowed support for your favorite program (athletic team, theater, music, service, etc.) via a bequest or life income giving strategy. In many cases, a life income gift can provide you with tax benefits and income TODAY, while MB gets a significant gift TOMORROW.

peer comparisons: financial strength & sustainability As Moses Brown looks to the future, plans are emerging to raise significant funds to increase endowment and bolster long-term financial sustainability. School BB&N Germantown Friends Milton Academy Moses Brown Noble & Greenough Sidwell Friends St. George’s

Founded

2011-12 Enrollment

1889 1845 1798 1784 1866 1883 1896

965 1,120 990 779 555 1,100 345

Endowment value* $50M 37M 190M 21M 42M 37M 95M

Endowment per student

2011-12 Tuition**

$51,813 33,036 191,919 26,958 75,676 33,636 275,362

$36,600 27,500 37,530 28,385 37,300 32,960 32,600

* Endowment figures are the market value as of June 30, 2011. ** Represents upper school day tuition.

To learn more and to forever be associated with Moses Brown as a member of the Obadiah Brown Society, contact Ron Dalgliesh, director of development and alumni relations, at 401-831-7350 x111 or rdalgliesh@mosesbrown.org or visit www.mosesbrown.org/plannedgiving


Moses Brown School 250 Lloyd Avenue, Providence, RI 02906 www.mosesbrown.org 401-831-7350

Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage Paid Providence, RI Permit No. 3264

For the Honor of Truth

Alumni parents: If this Cupola is addressed to a graduate no longer residing at your home, please contact alumni@mosesbrown.org or call x114 to update his or her address.

What’s Ahead! MB Reunion 2012 May 11-12

For the Classes of ‘37 ‘42 ‘47 ‘52 ‘57 ‘62 ‘67 ‘72 ‘77 ‘82 ‘87 ‘92 ‘97 ‘02 ‘07 See how things look at MB today and see old friends and new. Something to look forward to! MB Reunion 2012 Refresh your Moses Brown view anew this May. Register for Reunion at mosesbrown.org/alumni and connect with other folks in the MB community anytime at www.facebook.com/mosesbrownschool. Reunion 2012 will offer special events for classes ending in 2 and 7, though all alumni are welcome to attend, from any year, former faculty, too! To register, see who is coming, or get the latest MB updates, visit mosesbrown.org/alumni, contact alumni@mosesbrown.org, or call 401-831-7350 x288.


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