Spring 2014
Moses Brown Performing Arts
Cupola
Schoolhouse News | Performing Alumni | Alumni Events | Class Notes Commencement 2014 | In Memoriam: David Burnham
About Our Cover This issue of Cupola showcases alumni launching and reflecting on
Photo: Brad Harris
careers in various aspects of the performing arts. Spencer Novich ’06 can now be found practicing his craft in Las Vegas; he launched his career
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
using a Class of ’48 Award. See page 9 on for more from Spencer and other performing alumni. We hope to hear from more performing
Moses Brown School Board of Trustees 2013-2014
alumni. Thank you to Jason Weiss ’93, guest editor for this issue!
Congratulations to the MBAA’s spring award recipients, recognized at Reunion:
Paul Adler P ’14 ’16 Greg Baldwin ’87 Neil S. Beranbaum ’86 P ’22 ’24 Russell Carpenter ’59 Amy Curell P ’14
Cruz Goler ’89, 25th Reunion Alumnus Achievement Award Cruz is Chef di Cuisine at Lupa Osteria Romana in New York, having begun his cooking career making fresh pasta with his grandmother while an MB student. Cruz has worked in the kitchens of some of the country’s best
Elaine Dickson P ’18 ’22 ’27 Ted Fischer ’83 P ’12 ’14 ’17 Gary Goldberg ’87 P ’17 ’19 ’20 Clerk, Campaign Steering Committee
chefs, including Luma, Union Pacific and Mercer Kitchen. In 2005, he joined
Brian Goldner P ’14
the Batali-Bastianich group as executive sous chef to open Del Posto and
Habib Y. Gorgi ’74 P ’08 ’10 ’12 ’17
stayed there for two years while they earned two Michelin stars and three
Clerk of the Board
stars from the New York Times. Cruz has been lauded in the press for his local sourcing and efforts to reduce waste in the foodservice industry.
Clerk, Executive Committee Karen Hammond P ’10 ’14 ’14 Melissa Crouchley Hem ’85 David Holdt
Matt Runci ‘64, Distinguished Alumnus Award Recipient Matt’s career in the jewelry industry spans four decades, including serving
Lee Jaspers P ’11 ’14 Recording Clerk
as CEO of the Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America. His career is
Kathleen Levesque P ’12 ’14 ’17
marked by a dedication to responsible business practices, with a strong
Assistant Clerk of the Board
commitment to improving supply chain transparency and consumer confidence in the fine jewelry industry and its products. He is founding chairman of the Responsible Jewelry Council. Matt’s present company is Sustainable and Responsible Solutions. Matt has been a consistent MB
Frederick Martin Donald McNemar Keith Monchik ’90 P ’24 ’27 Clerk, MB Alumni Association M. Willis Monroe ’04
volunteer and has attended his reunions for the last 20 years. He has two
Clerk, Nurturing Friends Education
grandsons at MB and his son Chris is a 1988 alumnus.
Mary Lee Morrison Elizabeth Morse Neal R. Pandozzi ’91 Clerk, Trustees Committee Jaymin Patel P ’16 ’17 Lisa Rocchio ’85 P ’14 ’15 ’21 Clerk, Nominating Committee Martha Schwope
Get the MB Connects App today!
Keith Monchik ’90, Clerk George Panichas ’83, Assistant Clerk Brian Panoff ’94, Treasurer Albie Dahlberg ’87, Recording Clerk Taylor Rotondi Anderson ’02 John Baldwin ’94 Jason Engle ’98 Thomas Frater ’82 Gina Guiducci ’97 Adrian Hendricks ’58 Hugh Hysell ’83
Austin Jaspers ’11 David Keyser ’89 Jane Knowles ’81 Todd Machtley ’00 David Murdock ’93 David Murphy ’91 John Pariseault ’97 Joss Poulton ’07 Brad Shipp ’83 Ahvi Spindell ’72 Richard White ’84
W. Bradley Shipp ’83 Carol Smith Nia Thomas
2013-14 Alumni Association Board The mission of the Moses Brown Alumni Association is to foster lifelong relationships with the school and fellow alumni.
Friends Coordinator
Heather Tow-Yick ’94 Dawn Tripp P ’19 ’24 Clerk, Parents’ Association Steven Tripp P ’19 ’24 Clerk, Buildings & Grounds
Send comments, news, updates, address changes, photos or leads to alumni@mosesbrown.org. We hope to hear from more performing arts alumni! Also visit www.mosesbrown.org for
videos of MB today
Fan/post at facebook.com/MosesBrownSchool Comment on this issue at
www.mosesbrown.org/cupola
Visit the new MB blog at www.mosesbrown.org
to see more school life and voices
Carl Weinberg P ’90 ’94 ’16 ’24 Treasurer Clerk, Budget & Finance Committee Cecily Ziegler P ’22 ’24 Matt Glendinning Head of School Jackie Stillwell Clerk of NEYM
Cupola A bi-annual magazine for Moses Brown School alumni Managing Editor Kristen A. Curry Editor Ryan Vemmer Class Notes Editor Susan Cordina P ’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 Designer Bridget Snow Design 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.
Cupola
Spring 2014
www.mosesbrown.org
Letter from Matt Glendinning
4
News from Moses Brown Today
5
Schoolhouse News
7
MB Showcase
9
MB Alumni Association Events & News
22
Class Notes
25
Commencement 2014
43
In Memoriam
45
On David Burnham
48
Performing Arts: I mprovisational Thinking – New Riffs on an Old Standard A letter from Matt Glendinning, Head of School
4
original spring musical, and reimagined “In
received a lead gift of $5 million for this
the Shadows of the Elms” as a punk-rock
project from Dean Woodman ’46, great-
anthem with fellow alumnus Paul Hecht ’91.
grandson of the headmaster who first
brought vocal and instrumental music
As a candidate in our national search,
Adam made a profound observation during
to MB in the late 19th century.
one of his interviews: “If creativity is the
single most important trait students will
musician won’t be limited to the new
need in this century,” he said, “then the skill
Woodman Center, however. Creative
they most need to cultivate is improvisation.”
problem-solving also lies at the core of MB’s
I couldn’t agree more.
new Expert Thinking Model. Pedagogies such
Improvisation is the art of spontaneous
as Project-Based Learning and programs
Fostering the agile thinking of a jazz
creation. Most often associated with per-
like Engineering are providing students
forming arts such as jazz and comedy,
with mastery of core content and a chance
improvisation requires risk-taking, responding
to apply their knowledge to real-world
to incoming stimuli, trying and discarding
problems.
ideas with a sense of freedom and fearless-
ness. It’s an act of spontaneous problem-
and Immersion Program – broadens students’
THIS SPRING ISSUE OF CUPOLA, DEVOTED
solving that often results in something
horizons, presents them with unforeseen
TO PERFORMANCE AND STORY-TELLING,
unexpected and beautiful.
circumstances and fosters teamwork and
seems the perfect occasion to announce that
resilience. And new teaching spaces — such
MB alumnus Adam Olenn ’91 will become
highly successful artists and improvisers.
as a 21st century tinkerer’s studio called an
our new Director of Communications and
They seem to have in common a zeal for
Innovation Lab (iLab) – will set the stage for
Community Engagement, effective July 1, 2014.
storytelling and self-expression that was
experimentation and creative collaboration.
nurtured by generations of excellent teachers
Whether a project or trip lasts one day or
Adam was most recently a web producer
at MB.
one semester, students confront obstacles,
at Berklee College of Music in Boston and
learn from mistakes and try new ideas.
formerly was an experience designer for
ambitious plans to accelerate improvisational
They improvise.
ZEFER. Adam has a deep appreciation for
thinking across the school.
performance and all forms of communication
from the amazingly talented and creative
that touch the heart and soul. While at MB,
and theatrical performance groups, and we
alumni featured in these pages. And fasten
he taught magic to students at the Rhode
are proud to be moving ahead with plans for
your seatbelt as we harness the creative
Island School for the Deaf, played the lead
a new facility to showcase the creativity of
spirit of the next generation of MB students.
in Water Jar Boy, Barry Marshall’s first all-
our performers. As announced last fall, MB
A musician, actor, and master storyteller,
In this issue of Cupola, you’ll meet some
As we look to MB’s future, we have
MB currently offers 17 different music
Similarly, MB TRIPs – the Travel, Research
I hope that you will draw inspiration
d
Performing arts highlights 24 student musicians earned ensemble seats in the annual RI Music Educators Association All State Festival. Bassoonist Lydia Parr ’15 ranked first in the state, as did cellist Nick Pohl ’14 (for the second time). On stage in Alumni Hall, upper school talent shone in A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Urinetown. The middle school warmed hearts with Oklahoma! Retiring performing arts teacher Barry Marshall was honored by the
News from Moses Brown Today
Moses Brown Alumni Association as faculty member of the year.
MB TRIPs Our commitment to TRIPs (Travel, Research and Immersion Programs) is growing. Established trips continued, such as the healthcare service trip to the Dominican Republic. This year, two students’ participation was made possible by the Jake Bliss ’93 Memorial Award for International Service. Dr. Molly Bliss ‘86 established the award in memory of her brother Jake ’93, with whom she ran the trip for many years. In Yellowstone National Park and Montana’s Centennial Valley, upper and middle school students worked with the Nature Conservancy and U.S. Department of Fish and Wildlife for the third year. The Colorado Rocky Mountain adventure continued for students, and added a faculty group. In June, two exciting new trips took off: rising fourth, fifth and sixth graders hiked the White Mountains with the Appalachian Mountain Club; and rising juniors and seniors traveled to Kenya to help refurbish rural elementary schools. Plans continue for new adventures: Head of Upper School Debbie Phipps, English teacher Meg Fifer and history teacher Jon Gold traveled to India and China to gather ideas for future trips.
Expert thinking, global awareness: visitors bring the world to our classrooms Former U.S. Poet Laureate Philip Levine’s visit inspired poetry collaboration in classrooms campus-wide, as upper, middle and lower school students explored poetry together. Three Afghan women enrolled in U.S. colleges shared rare insights with students and faculty in all three divisions. Mexican printmaker Hugo Anaya worked with student artists during his exhibition
Collaborations beyond the campus
in Krause Gallery. Diversity speaker Dr. Jennifer
Upper, middle and lower school jazz band and wind ensemble members visited San Miguel School,
Bryan led the community in discussions of
where MB’s director of instrumental music Steve Toro has introduced a music curriculum. Later,
gender identity and inclusiveness. Mary
San Miguel’s fifth graders spent a hands-on morning in MB’s band room, as upper school musicians
Fernandez inspired students to pursue STEM
introduced them to the instruments. Middle school’s CARS (Conversations about Reading Sessions)
fields. Sensei Charles Colton introduced mindful-
program organized a drive that donated more than 400 books to the Urban Collaborative Accelerated
ness-based movement, the kinesthetics of
Program. Freshman English classes shared language-based conflict resolution skills with fourth graders
spirituality and conflict resolution to lower
at MLK Elementary School, using original tools such as puppet shows, board games and video. The
and upper school classes; and aikido, “the art
initiative emerged from a first-time interdisciplinary unit adding Friends Education perspective to
of peace,” to the wrestling teams.
their study of Antigone.
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Curriculum enhancements New upper school classes will debut in September, such as an enhanced Engineering class; Civics in Action/Public Policy; Spanish for Heritage Speakers; Literature of War; Tinker Tailor Maker; Global and Local Ecology; Detective Fiction; Literature of the Mind; and a chamber music element for String Orchestra. New inter-departmental team-taught courses include The Art of Social Change; Peer Leadership; and Engineering Design. This year’s interdisciplinary projects included a commedia dell’arte workshop for students studying Italian and theater arts.
New faces! 13 new faculty and staff joined the Moses Brown community this academic year.
Kudos MB’s sailing team won the state championship for the fourth time in five years; our ice hockey team won their first championship in the new league; our golf team won its first state championship behind individual champion Will Dickson ’17; boys and girls track and field won the SENE championships; and our field hockey team repeated as state champions. Dan Brandes ’14 received a National Merit Scholarship. Four seniors were Presidential Scholar finalists: Will Atkinson, Dan Brandes, Margot Creamer and Sydney Harrington. Singne Brown ‘14 was a National Medalist (Gold Key) in the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. The Class of ’48 Award for Independent Study and Inquiry will support indepen-
Service Day
dent summer study by three rising seniors: Andrew Fay, in Normandy for the commemoration of
Upper school’s annual Community Service
the 70th anniversary of D-Day; Charlotte Flynn, in the prestigious Alvin Ailey Dance Theatre Summer
Day is always a favorite. This May, students
Intensive; and Molly Freeman, volunteering with pediatric cardiology patients and studying heart
and faculty worked at 27 sites.
disease at Brown.
Thanks! Best wishes to departing longtime faculty Barry Marshall taught theater and performing arts across divisions since 1985, and played a key role
Friends Education Conference
musical, and shaped the vocations and avocations of countless alumni (as you’ll read in this issue).
The first annual conference of Quaker schools
Lee Clasper-Torch arrived in 1989 to join what was then the Department of Religion and Human
in New England took place at Moses Brown in
Values. Lee’s interest in developing students’ spiritual awareness and encouraging them to look
November, focused on the testimony of peace
inward as well as outward led to courses such as Existential Literature and Religion and Society. As a
and organized by Director of Friends Education
coach, Lee urged his wrestlers to embrace the grace of the sport. Debby Neely began teaching middle
Galen Hamann. Faculty members Ruffin Powell,
school English in 1986, and rapidly set the standard for cross-divisional collaboration and curriculum
Elizabeth Grumbach, Maureen Nagle, Abby
development. She modeled creativity, self-reflection, and the importance of meaningful connections,
Phyfe and Sarah Barnum were also among the
while demanding excellence and critical work from both students and herself.
presenters.
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in the evolution of our performing arts program. He directed the upper school fall play and spring
Showtime: our future starts now
After two years of community discernment about Moses Brown’s future, our school is moving ahead boldly. Guiding us is our new strategic vision, MB Believes.
“MB Believes, a vision for learning, people and place, is an innovative plan for an innovative school. It will provide a transformational experience for generations of students.” —Matt Glendinning, Head of School
World-Class Teaching: inspiring mentors who foster passion and curiosity
Expert Thinking: applying acquired knowledge to solve real problems
Global Awareness: preparing students for a globally-interconnected world
Ethical Leadership: to act and lead with integrity, to view the world from multiple perspectives, to stand up for what’s right with the desire to make a difference
MB TRIPs: travel, research and immersion programs that bring our classrooms to the world, and the world to our classrooms
Open Access: dramatically increasing our scholarship budget over the next five years, engaging the best minds with the broadest perspectives
The Carpenter Fund for Teaching Excellence: an endowment gift from Russ Carpenter ’59 “Teaching is what Moses Brown has always done best, and to my mind, it’s the most vital part of the school’s future. Although the world is changing rapidly, great teaching will remain as important as ever, and this program will help the school adapt to the needs of education in a globalized world.” —Russ Carpenter ’59 The Carpenter Fund supports our faculty’s professional development; publishing and presenting at national conferences; team-taught, interdisciplinary courses; and funding to sustain competitive salaries and benefits. Six new faculty leadership positions will develop MB’s Expert Thinking model and TRIPs.
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TEDx Expeditions
MB Challenge
MB UpClose Open House and Homecoming
Expo, an extraordinary October weekend: a 3-day, participatory festival displaying how play, passion and purpose develop creativity and innovation. What will Expo 2014 have in store? Stay tuned!
Campus planning: In March, MB’s Board of Trustees reached
will significantly enhance the school’s ability to prepare students for a
consensus around a new campus master plan, one that will guide
rapidly changing world. At the same time, our campus enhancements
the creation of the three buildings envisioned in MB Believes:
highlight one of MB’s greatest strengths — our sense of community.
• a community and performance center
• an expansion of lower school
• a new “maker space” called the Innovation Lab (iLab)
Alumni Hall will house the new Innovation Lab (iLab), supporting project-based learning, design thinking and engineering, programs that together comprise MB’s Expert Thinking Model. Our Lower School
With architect Trung Le, our community engaged in a rigorous
Expansion will serve every child with a multi-disciplinary discovery
process: hundreds of hours of exploration and discussion to gain
center for art, science, library, music and an iLab.
clarity on the best location, functions and projected costs of the three buildings. The need is driven by the realities of a shifting educational landscape. We need new teaching, learning and performance spaces, as well as environments that foster 21st-century skills such as creativity, collaboration and problem-solving. These new facilities
Now: In the schematic design phase, Trung Le and his team are building conceptual models and architectural renderings to capture the essence of the buildings and the rooms inside. This is an exciting moment for Moses Brown, as our dreams begin to take shape.
“It’s really gratifying to think about my great-grandfather Augustine Jones introducing vocal and instrumental music to MB as headmaster more than a century ago, and for me to be in a position now to help the school build the new —Dean Woodman ’46 Community and Performance Center.”
The Community and Performance Center, made possible by a historic gift from Dean Woodman ‘46 A new space for performance and community gathering will serve and expand the functions previously filled by Alumni Hall, which was built 150 years ago for a student population of 225. The new flexible facility will seat 500 and will host musical and theatrical performances, meeting for worship, exhibitions, workshops and gatherings for every facet of our community. The Community and Performance Center will be at the heart of the campus, connected to the Walter Jones Library, which will be renovated to meet a variety of social and academic needs. With abundant seating, several teaching spaces and nooks for individual quiet study, Jones will become the hub of student life.
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A Midsummer Night’s Dream, MB fall 2013
MB Showcase
“We all have a creative soul, my friends, and you’ll be amazed what you find when you feed it.”
By Guest Editor Jason Weiss ’93
ESTABLISHING AND SUSTAINING A CAREER
Dedication, sacrifice, and focus are
feature at the Cable Car. And maybe, just
IN THE ARTS IS NO SIMPLE TASK. There are
paramount when pursuing a career as
maybe, you’ll realize that life is short —
no blueprints, step-by-step guides, or maps
subjective as the arts. This is why it should
you’ll gather your courage, shake off your
one can follow to find success. Many
come as no surprise that Moses Brown has
nerves, and pick up a paint brush, dust off a
supremely talented artists toil in obscurity
produced such a slew of creative people.
neglected copy of Shakespeare, pluck at
for the majority of their lives before they
Future actors, musicians, directors,
your old six-string, sign up for an improv
find even a modicum of appreciation, all the
producers, writers, painters, sculptors, and
class, or even audition for a play at your
while holding down two or three side jobs
many more have all walked the hallways of
community theatre. We all have a creative
just to pay their rent. Simply stated: art is a
Moses Brown and I’m proud to say that I am
soul, my friends, and you’ll be amazed what
labor of love. An artist must love her art and
one of them.
you find when you feed it. Thank you for
pursue it with unbridled passion, or success
your indulgence, and I hope you enjoy this
will prove to be most elusive. This love and
Performing Arts issue of Cupola and am
passion is what prompts most people
honored to be the guest editor. Over the
outside of the arts to consider artists
past few months I have had the pleasure of
Jason Weiss lives in West Hollywood, California,
dreamers. In their view, artists aren’t
talking to many MB graduates who are
working as an actor and director for the stage
pursuing a tangible goal or a viable career,
working in a vast variety of artistic fields.
and screen. He graduated from Moses Brown in
but rather, “following their dream.” I can
Many of you reading this issue might think
1993 and went on to major in theatre at the
understand that and I can see why that
that you’re alone in your artistic pursuits,
University of Miami and eventually earn an
sounds romantic and poetic but, in reality,
but — take my word for it — there are a lot
MFA from the University of Florida. Jason’s
it’s the furthest thing from the truth.
of us out there and we would love to hear
professional career led him to New York City
from you. For those of you who have what I
where he performed in dozens of plays, films,
businesspeople, teachers, military officers,
like to call “Job” jobs, this issue is for you,
TV shows and commercials. He has also taught
and politicians, many artists have been
too. Hopefully, you’ll be inspired by the
acting and performed at multiple regional
studying their craft for years. Some have
stories in these pages to go see a play at
theatres and Shakespeare festivals around the
earned advanced degrees from sterling
your local theatre or a performance at the
country. Contact or follow Jason at jason.weiss@
institutions and others have spent decades
ballet. Perhaps you’ll bypass the latest
mac.com / @TheJasonWeiss.
apprenticing under true masters.
blockbuster film and take in an independent
Much like doctors, lawyers,
I am excited to be a part of this
issue.
It’s no surprise that Jason Weiss has helmed a Cupola focused on performing arts. In his yearbook page in the ’93 Mosaic, Jason quoted Billy Joel, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, Bob Marley and Willy Wonka! Thank you to Jason for taking a lead role in guiding and editing this issue of our alumni magazine. Jason interviewed two fellow alumni for this issue — Will Mackenzie ’56 and Rick Turner ’62. Jason hopes to connect with more performing alumni. If you are working in performing arts in any way, anywhere, we want to know. Share information for a future MB event or networking. Jason and MB are hoping to stage some gatherings for performing arts alumni. “If someone from MB called me, I would always talk to them,” says Jason. “I would love to get whoever is out here in L.A. acting. I’d love for people to get together and talk and see what’s what.” Reach out!
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Will Mackenzie ’56 (left) shown with Guest Editor Jason Weiss ’93 in L.A. in 1997.
stage tv
Stagecraft: Will Mackenzie ’56 Interviewed by Jason Weiss ’93 WILL MACKENZIE’S LIFE IN THE PERFORMING ARTS GOT ITS
Did you go right to New York?
START IN ALUMNI HALL. After graduating MB in 1956, Will
I went to Brown and did tons of theatre. I nearly flunked out
launched a career that took him to the lights of Broadway and TV
because I was in five or six shows a year, rehearsing from 7 to 11
sets of Hollywood. It all goes back to Headmaster Ralston Thomas
nearly every night. I started with As You Like It, did Shakespeare
and his wife Editha who “discovered” and nurtured Will at MB. “I
and musicals, and played the leprechaun in Finian’s Rainbow.
found my place at Moses Brown,” he says, “and my career.”
I did every show I could. One summer, I was at the American Shakespeare Festival carrying spears and taking any parts I could
Will’s acting career includes his Broadway debut in 1965 in Half a
get. I heard about the Fulbright program — though I wasn’t a
Sixpence; the role of Cornelius Hackl in the original run of Hello,
straight-A student, I decided to apply. They were looking for
Dolly!; and TV appearances on Route 66, The Mod Squad, Rhoda,
people who were enthusiastic. I studied at LAMDA [London
Maude, All in the Family, and The Bob Newhart Show. After many
Academy of Music & Dramatic Art] for a year which was fantastic.
years working as an actor, Will moved into directing. He made his
I got a job with Gian Carlo Menotti at Festival of the Two Worlds
directing debut with The Bob Newhart Show and went on to direct
in Spoleto, Italy. From there, I went to New York and got into the
WKRP in Cincinnati, Bosom Buddies, Reba, and Scrubs. He received
Boston company of The Fantasticks. It was my first professional job.
Performing Arts / Performing Alumni
three Directors Guild Awards for Moonlighting, Family Ties, and
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Everybody Loves Raymond and is a six-time Emmy nominee. On
I read recently in the New York Times that The Fantasticks, which
stage, Will directed acclaimed shows in New York City, L.A. and
opened in 1960, is the single greatest investment anybody could have
at the Goodspeed Opera House in Connecticut. Today, Will keeps
made. If you invested in the original production, you would have
busy doing staged readings on the West Coast to benefit various
made more money than if you had invested in Apple because it’s
charities.
been playing for so long. It’s a great show. We get a Christmas card from Harvey Schmidt
Did you always know that you wanted to be an actor?
every year. I took a lot of theatre jobs for ten years and that was
I knew from the time I was in fifth grade at MB. I had great teachers.
my very first. In ’65, I got into Half a Sixpence on Broadway which
My mother and I made a puppet show — Dun Gifford, Charlie
was great but I was only in it for four months because Gower
Stuart, Gordon Holmes and I did the marionettes together; our stage
Champion saw me and brought me across the street to put me in
was made of orange crates. We piled into my mother’s station
Hello Dolly! That was one of the highpoints of my life. I got to play
wagon and visited schools to do history skits. When I was in eighth
it with Carol Channing, Ginger Rogers, Martha Raye, and Betty
grade, I got a part in the Proscenium Club, overseen by the head-
Grable. I was in it for two and a half years, 941 performances…
master’s wife. I played a dope fiend. Then I started playing leads.
This doesn’t have much to do with Moses Brown?
“The faculty made MB special to me. The joy of being in a private school is that education is so important. Miss Wilson was my third grade teacher and I can still remember her, Miss Pixley, Miss Chapel, Mrs. Monahon, Mr. Paxton, Mr. Whitford, Frank Fuller, Doc Odell. Here I am 75 years old, still remembering these names — that means they made a very positive impression on me.” Editha Thomas I think it has everything to do with Moses Brown!
done a million musicals — one of the gals who
This gal, Editha Thomas, encouraged my family.
was a writer was a huge musical theatre fan; she
When I’ve gone back, I’ve seen the drama
had the guys who did Avenue Q write it. That was
Will directed TV shows for Reba McEntire (top)
teacher there now.
a big deal.
and Ray Romano (bottom), also shown with
Barry Marshall! He was my teacher.
When you look back, what made MB special
We didn’t have Barry, we had Editha. Sweet
to you?
lady, had been an actress. She married the
The faculty. To me, the joy of being in a private
headmaster and directed our plays. She was
school is that education is so important. Miss
able to come to me as a non-parent and say,
Wilson was my third grade teacher and I can still
“I think you have a lot of talent, you should
remember her, Miss Pixley, Miss Chappell, Mrs.
pursue this dream.”
Monahon, Mr. Paxton, Mr. Whitford, Frank Fuller,
One of the things I found at MB is that they
ing these names — that means they made a very
don’t try to pigeonhole you. They want to find
positive impression on me. They were strict, but I
what you are interested in, what you excel at,
learned a lot. I got into Brown, Wesleyan, and
and see if they can foster that. I just went back
Bowdoin because of my MB education. So to me,
for the 20th reunion; it’s amazing how much the
it’s the faculty.
Will’s wife Patsy.
Doc Odell. Here I am 75 years old, still remember-
school has changed. The values are the same, but it’s so modern now. Great classrooms.
I did not at that time understand how gracious
I haven’t been back since 2006 for my 50th
you were to open your house to me. I was 22
reunion. I was amazed.
and didn’t know how great connections were. I thought I was the next James Dean.
That Moonlighting episode you did, “Taming of
Ignorance is bliss. If you knew then what you
the Shrew” (1986), is one of the greatest epi-
know now, you wouldn’t have done it and taken
sodes of anything I have ever seen on television.
the chances. I’ve been married for 48 years in
That is very kind. It was a great script, the one
June because Patsy was an adorable dancer —
script the creator never changed, all in iambic
lust at first sight and we fell in love. I took a
pentameter. They had to learn the script but
chance. You take a chance when you go into the
the show turned out to be fantastic. That
business and you have to believe in yourself. To
Shakespeare episode ended up being a classic.
me, I was the greatest thing to come out of MB and Brown, thinking I was hot s--t. I got a
That episode launched all the TV show musicals
Fulbright and went to New York the exact same
they do now.
year Alda Alda’s there, Jon Voight, Dustin
I did the Shakespeare thing because I grew up
Hoffman, William Devane, Sam Waterston and a
on Shakespeare but I never directed it until I
million others, but thousands did much better
was called for that episode. Cybill Shepherd
than I ever did. We were all auditioning together.
and Bruce Willis never did Shakespeare in
I think you must have self-confidence, chutzpah,
their lives so we rehearsed a bit and it turned
you go, “By God, I’m gonna knock this town on
out great. I got the Scrubs musical because I’ve
its ear.”
In the late 1990s, Jason moved out to L.A. and, via the MB connection, lived in the Mackenzies’ guest house. While there, Jason observed Will at work including on the Everybody Loves Raymond set. Jason says: “The stuff I learned from watching Will Mackenzie in the rehearsal hall and on the Warner Brothers set, they don’t teach in school. It was incredible.” In 1996, Will delivered the commencement speech at MB.
Jason and Will both got their dramatic start at MB with Gilbert and Sullivan. Jason performed in Pirates of Penzance and Will in Iolanthe. 11
Chloe Johnston ’95: On Performing & Teaching
theatre experimental
“Don’t think too much. Make as much as you can. Find a situation where you’re forced to create a lot of material. You’ll be fearless — you won’t have time to be afraid! This won’t just make your career — it will make you happy.”
Performing Arts / Performing Alumni
Photo: joe mazza — brave lux inc.
12
PROFESSOR, PERFORMER, WRITER, DIRECTOR,
magazine. That was enough: we had a good
Remembering MB: “Aside from Barry, I
DEVISOR: there’s no simple job title for
script, and people paid attention.”
learned a lot from Tom Andrew. Jamie
Chloe Johnston ’95. Consider her latest
German made a huge impression on me:
project, where she collaborated with artists
ing and performing in their late-night cult
her honesty, her rigor, the way she lives
and musicians on a performance art instal-
show, Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go
her life … such an inspiration. In Jamie’s
lation adapted from an early 20th-century
Blind. With her Ph.D. in performance studies
Seminar on Scientific Thought, we read
collection of Zen stories. Chloe’s unusual
from Northwestern, Chloe began teaching,
texts that were so beautiful, they’re still
approach to theater began at Moses Brown.
as well; she’s now on the faculty at Lake
with me now. And from Jason Gross, I
“Like a lot of little girls, I wanted to be
Chloe joined The Neo-Futurists, writ-
Forest College. “I’ve been lucky to bring my
learned that part of being a good teacher is
an actress. I was in A Christmas Carol at
creative work and my teaching together. My
simply listening to your students.”
Trinity Rep for four years, at least! At MB, I
university advancement is contingent on
loved theater classes with Barry Marshall.
my creative work: on a practical level, work-
Coming home: “A few years ago Barry put on
But playwriting class changed things for me
ing on a show is part of my teaching. My
a festival of student playwriting, and I was
— suddenly we weren’t just interpreting a
students work on my shows off-campus, so
thrilled to be back at MB when one of my
story, but creating the story.”
I make connections for them.”
plays was read.” Another full-circle moment
came in 2008, when Trinity Rep premiered
Chloe chose the University of Chicago —
Her advice to her students: “Don’t think
“it seemed like a place for weird people, so
too much. Make as much as you can. Find a
Paris By Night, a musical Chloe’s husband
it might be good for me” — and studied the-
situation where you’re forced to create a lot
André Pluess wrote with Curt Columbus.
ater with Curt Columbus, now Trinity Rep’s
of material. You’ll be fearless — you won’t
“It was amazing to see actors I’d idolized
artistic director. He encouraged her to finish
have time to be afraid! This won’t just make
as a Christmas Carol kid, creating this lovely
a play she’d started at MB, and helped her
your career — it will make you happy. For
show.”
to find other mentors. “Young artists can
me, it goes back to those early days with
take chances in Chicago: there’s a thriving
The Neo-Futurists, creating and performing
Seen anything good lately? “I see a lot of
artistic community, and affordable spaces to
tons of work every week. We didn’t choose
theater. I see my friends’ work and I take
work and live. Some cities offer one or the
between writing, performing and direct-
my students to shows almost weekly. I’m
other — New York, Atlanta — but Chicago
ing. We did it all. Now that I teach acting, I
most interested in experimental work, but
has both. When I graduated, you could just
sneak in a little devised work, encouraging
the older I get, I find I just appreciate talent.
put on a show and the Chicago Tribune would
students to make their own text, not to see
I’m still a dorky theater kid at heart.”
come. I started a company with my friends,
themselves as ‘just’ actors. That mindset
and suddenly we were in American Theatre
started in Barry’s classes at MB.”
See videos and learn more about Chloe Johnston’s work at chloejohnston.org/solo-work.
exciting and empowering.” This is one reason that she decided to adapt her one-act play, Fetus Envy, into a short film and post it to the Internet.
acting
“Unhappy with what was going on politically, for me this was a form of
director
activism, a way to reach more folks than I would through theatre. Though my goal was to inform and affect U.S. voters, it was thrilling to have a woman from Poland reach out to me asking permission to use it at an organization there (similar to Planned Parenthood) because it spoke to issues they were experiencing, or to have someone from Ireland email to tell me how much the film affected her. That being said, nothing takes the place of live theatre. There is something about that up-close and personal, in-your-face experience. Theatre is palpable
Melissa Fontes Maxwell ’81: Making a Career
and visceral in a way that film or any other medium simply cannot be.” Fetus Envy won an AAPEX Filmmaker Award, second prize at the ARTLightenment Film Festival, and has been screened at colleges and other venues across the U.S. and internationally.
MELISSA MAXWELL ’81 MADE AN IMPRESSION AT MB — with her ener-
Why? “I believe that theatre should not just entertain but educate. I am
getic voice, expressive personality, and beautiful, handmade outfits
always interested in works that have a statement to make, push the
(including her prom dress). A serious student and thoughtful voice on
envelope or test boundaries in some way, or challenge us to rethink
the disciplinary committee, clearly Melissa was already developing
what we thought we knew to be true.”
stage presence. A member of the Proscenium Club, Melissa remembers taking field trips to Trinity Rep and being completely enthralled by the
What inspires you? “I am fascinated by what humans are capable of. I
experience. Born Yesterday and Waiting for Godot still come
was glued to the TV watching snowboarders in the Olympics, in awe of
to mind vividly for her. Melissa had been accepted into
their audacity, athleticism and skill. I also enjoyed a piece on a 19-year-
three different schools in fashion design and was well on
old who developed a plan to clean plastic waste from the ocean, blown
her way to a career in fashion, until drama instructor
away by the level of intelligence and ingenuity it takes to tackle such a
Mrs. Gunion and those trips to Trinity Rep altered the
problem, let alone solve it. A few years ago I saw Brief Encounter on
course of her trajectory. She headed to Boston University
Broadway three times because the illusion they pulled off in that show
for her BFA in theatre arts performance.
was simply breathtaking. I respect and appreciate talent in almost any
form and am inspired by those playing at the top of their game.”
Today a veteran of stage, screen, TV, print and radio, Melissa
has been busy since visiting MB in 2012 to deliver a TEDx talk on “Taking Ownership,” including a second TEDx talk “On Courage” at
Now: This spring, Melissa headed to Ithaca’s Kitchen Theatre to direct
TEDxBarnardCollegeWomen. Melissa also directed several shows:
the world premiere of Slashes of Light, a co-production with Civic
a children’s musical, Show Way, which received an Off Broadway
Ensemble. She is currently directing East Village Chronicles at Metropolitan
Theatre Alliance “Best Family Show” nomination; Intimate Apparel at
Playhouse in New York. Melissa also serves on the board of the League of
the University of Texas; and several productions at the famed Stella
Professional Theatre Women, which aims to promote visibility and
Adler Studio in New York.
increase opportunities for women in professional theatre.
For the past eight years or so, Melissa has primarily worked as a
director though she still acts on occasion (last year, she shot an IBM
And then: Melissa has appeared in The Thomas Crown Affair, Law & Order,
commercial and appeared on an episode of Hostages) and writes. Her
The Sopranos, All My Children, and countless TV commercials. Melissa
play Salt in a Wound was read at Queens Theatre in April as part of
started as a voice-over artist at WGBH in Boston and played Eliza in the
their New American Voices series. She says directing lets her use
radio drama Uncle Tom’s Cabin to James Earl Jones’ Tom. A few years ago,
more of her skill set.
she had the honor and privilege of directing the American premiere of
Melissa also is director of American Slavery Project’s Unheard Voices
Taboos at the Soho Playhouse, written by Carl Djerassi, the scientist who
(www.americanslaveryproject.org), which commissioned 18 contempo-
invented the birth control pill (now in his 80s, he has spent the last decade
rary African-American writers to give voice to the 419 graves of the
or so writing plays based on the science that has been his life’s work).
anonymous men, women and children who lived in colonial New York and are buried at Manhattan’s African Burial Ground. The short “autobiographical” pieces are about these people’s lives, based on the goods and remains discovered in their graves. This living legacy theatrical work is built to travel and has been performed at the New York Historical Society, the Shabazz Center, CAP21, Ensemble Studio Theatre and various educational institutions.
Today, Melissa enjoys doing work that tackles political and contem-
porary issues. “Now, with the Internet and social media, there are soooo many ways to engage an audience,” Melissa says, “which is
Melissa shown (top) with cast on opening night for Intimate Apparel at the University of Texas and (bottom) at Barnard College.
13
Rick Turner says he was a “proto-hippie” at MB in the early ’60s: “We were of the rebellious type but we also realized we had a good thing going at Moses Brown.” music
To His Own Beat: Rick Turner ’62
Performing Arts / Performing Alumni
Interviewed by Jason Weiss ’93
14
WARWICK “RICK” TURNER CAME TO MB
Why MB?
town guitar repair shop, learning the craft
FROM NORTH SHORE MASSACHUSETTS,
Despite living near some fine schools in
that he’s still working at.
with a banjo under one arm, a guitar under
their own right, Rick’s family sent him to
the other and a fabulous collection of
MB: “Quaker education is really interesting
guitar for Canadian folk singers Ian &
records. He has fond memories of his days
and the Quakers in general because they’re
Sylvia. Rick toured all over the U.S. and
boarding at Moses Brown: “Mr. Howe was
conservative in the best meaning of the
Canada with them, played guitar at the
the shop teacher when I went to MB, and he
word. They want to conserve that which is
Newport Folk Festival, Hollywood Bowl,
let me use the shop for some little projects.
good but they’re very liberal socially. So, the
Lincoln Center in New York, Symphony Hall
I just loved that building, and the smell of
conservative part: the formal jacket and tie
in Boston, and Orchestra Hall in Chicago
pine sawdust was like that in the boat yards
of the time, yes sir, mister, and all that. The
(and “most of the hockey rinks in Canada”).
in my hometown of Marblehead.”
tradition of politeness and so on. At the
“I got to play on some phenomenal stages,”
same time, anti-war and very open sexual
Rick says. Eventually, he migrated to
ing and repairing guitars for Fleetwood Mac,
equality, racial equality, you name it. It’s
Greenwich Village, New York and played
the Grateful Dead, the Police, Jefferson
built into the Quaker tradition. My parents
legendary folk clubs like Café au Go Go and
Airplane, the Who, Led Zeppelin, the Doobie
thought the best spiritual and ethical guid-
the Night Owl — and one memorable gig on
Brothers, Van Morrison, Ry Cooder, David
ance, in addition to top-grade academics,
top of the Chelsea Hotel, which was shut
Crosby, Graham Nash, Joni Mitchell, the
would be found at MB.”
down by the police.
Beach Boys, Ricki Lee Jones, the Allman
Brothers, and John Mayer. Rick restored
University, but was seduced by Boston’s
delic rock band, AutoSalvage, who had the
Buddy Holly’s original guitar and even
growing folk music scene. Rick now looks
luck of opening for Frank Zappa’s Mothers
helped engineer the Grateful Dead’s legend-
on MB fondly as his real education: “Moses
of Invention on their first New York appear-
ary “wall of sound.”
Brown was fantastic. MB essentially
ance. An album Rick’s band made for RCA
replaced college for me, and I moved into
got great reviews in Rolling Stone and other
in the Class of ’62: “Lorenzo Weisman was a
my profession pretty much by what would
publications, and was featured on Terri
pretty good flamenco guitar player. More in
have been my sophomore year. Boston
Gross’ Fresh Air in 2011, leading to a reunion
my scene was Joel Zoss who went on to
University was not the right place for me,
at South by Southwest just last year.
write ‘I Gave My Love a Candle’ and ‘Too
though Boston was perfect! For me, Moses
Long at the Fair’, made famous by Bonnie
Brown served as my college education.”
time and that place, Rick took his work
Raitt. Joel and I were MB’s bohemian proto-
seriously, studying acoustics and the
hippie musicians.”
minded people, including musician Lowell
science of sound. He continued repairing
“Banana” Levinger. Rick played around
guitars and rebuilding them out of broken,
drama for arts. Rick appeared as Peter in
Cambridge with Banana and the Bunch,
discarded pieces. He built one guitar that
Diary of Anne Frank and as Stage Manager in
“Old Time Music with A-Peal” (two of whom
eventually went to Jerry Garcia; Jerry took it
Our Town — although his dramatic career
later were in the Youngbloods). “The coffee-
on tour and played it on a couple of albums.
conflicted at times with his role on the MB
house scene in Boston was fantastic,” he
Rick even played bass on Don McLean’s first
track team.
says. He began apprenticing with a down-
album before American Pie.
Since then, Rick has built a career build-
Rick says there were several musicians
At the time, MB offered chorus and
After graduation, Rick headed to Boston
At college, Rick did meet other like-
In 1965, Rick was tapped to play lead
Rick then went on to play in a psyche-
Despite the freewheeling vibe of the
they were recording Rumors and started spending time with them in studio — “Lindsey and I started talking about what would be the ideal guitar for him. He wanted the roundness and warmth of a Les Paul with the clarity of a Strat.” Rick created three prototypes and took them to Lindsey while they were preparing for the Tusk tour, “rehearsing on a sound stage in Hollywood that had been Esther Williams’ swimming pool, filled in at that point, with ginormous sound stages!” Rick took the guitar to rehearsal and put it on stage. Lindsey came in, picked up the guitar and didn’t put it down for three hours. Rick says, “Lindsey yelled, ‘Leave the Les Paul and the Strat and the Ovation at home — this is
“I got to play in some amazing sandboxes.”
all I need!’”
Rick later worked for Gibson Guitar
for a stint. “I was president of Gibson Labs for an eye blink,” says Rick, but corporate life was not for him. He also managed the repair department at Westwood Music in L.A., then eventually ended up in Santa Cruz, where he is now.
Eventually, he fell into the Grateful Dead scene. “I was the missing
Master Teacher
technical link to this vision of having a brain trust of electronic sonic
Rick teaches a course, “Build a Mandolin or Ukulele in Four Days.” He’s
recording and gear designers,” he says. Rick was the Dead’s designated
taught it everywhere from the West Coast to Australia and the Telluride
guitar guy and the legendary company Alembic was formed.
Bluegrass Festival — and this fall, he’ll take it to Amsterdam. Rick is also helping to start a multi-disciplinary research and development committee
Creative chance
at Stanford, delving into acoustics, music, and electronics. He’ll be work-
Upon meeting the Dead crowd, Rick started working with electronics
ing with the university’s Center for Computer Research in Music and
expert Ron Wickersham — they began doing controlled sound experi-
Acoustics, the technical licensing and music departments, and possibly
ments together: “We have 3,000 turns of 38-gauge wire — what happens
the physics department.
if we go to 4,000? Keep the magnet structure the same. Change the number of windings, change the gauge of the wire, learn what those
MB memories: Rick was editor in chief of the 1962 Mosaic. Looking back,
changes do, change the magnet structure, and keep the wire the same.
he says what he most appreciates about his MB education was “small
A lot of it is common knowledge now but in 1969/70, nobody knew this
classes with great teachers. For me, Moses Brown was preparation to go
stuff. We experimented.” In the industry, this revolutionary approach led
out and live an independent life.” Rick was also president of the judicial
to new sound possibilities. Rick and Ron also designed and supervised
board, a UN delegate, and a member of Providence Junior Rotary. He ran
the building of the infamous Grateful Dead Wall of Sound. “I got to play
track and played for MB’s first soccer team.
in some amazing sandboxes,” he says. Been There, Mixed That “A couple of years ago, one of my guys in the shop was playing a live tape of a Grateful Dead gig and I’m thinking, ‘Man, that sounds familiar, what concert was that from?’ ‘Capitol Theatre, Port Chester, 1971,’ he said. No wonder it sounds familiar, I mixed that! It’s weird to hear all this Grateful Dead stuff and to recognize your mix.”
See videos and learn more about Rick Turner’s work at rickturnerguitars.
com. On what it’s like to see musical virtuosos play the instruments he’s
Eventually Rick set up shop in Sonoma, building instruments for Greg
Lake, John Paul Jones, John Entwistle, Stanley Clarke, and John McVie —
built, Rick says, “It’s a mind-boggling experience. It’s incredible, a perfect
“We were building for the gods of bass.” Rick met Fleetwood Mac while
moment.” 15
Photo courtesy of the Television Academy
“I’m drawn to stories about people whose stories might not otherwise be told,” Sasha explains, “stories that might get lost otherwise.”
tv film
Stories Should Be Told: Susan “Sasha” Alpert ’78 SASHA ALPERT WEARS TWO HATS IN HOLLYWOOD: documentary
production for Bunim/Murray, won two primetime Emmys, includ-
filmmaker and reality TV casting director. Her documentaries and
ing Best Non-Fiction Special and numerous festival awards and
specials have aired on PBS, CBS, MTV, TBS, HBO and Disney
premiered on HBO. Her latest documentary, Valentine Road (2013),
Channel, and Forever Hollywood has played continuously at the
was also broadcast on HBO after its Sundance Film Festival pre-
Egyptian Theater in Los Angeles for 14 years (and counting). Sasha
miere. “I’m drawn to stories about people whose stories might not
has cast 21 seasons of The Real World, seven seasons of Project
otherwise be told,” Sasha explains, “stories that might get lost
Runway, and all seasons of Best Ink, Starting Over, and The Simple
otherwise. Valentine Road is about an eighth grader who shot another
Life, as executive v.p. in charge of casting for Bunim/Murray and
kid in the back of the head at point-blank range. The national
BMP Films. Since 2006, she has simultaneously run BMP’s award-
media wasn’t covering these stories a decade ago, but attitudes are
winning documentary division.
changing and we’ve come a long way. It’s hard for us to believe
how previous generations treated African-Americans, for instance.
Sasha’s love for film took hold on Thayer Street. She recalls, “I
used to go to the Avon all the time. I’d walk there. I’d see anything:
One day, our kids won’t believe how gay people used to be treated.”
weird things, foreign stuff, documentaries. I loved the escapism,
the dark room.”
She had moved to L.A. for her husband’s job, and when they had
children, wanted more stability, less travel. She was surprised by
Sasha enrolled at MB as soon as coeducation began (1976), for
Reality TV might have been a temporary detour for Sasha.
her junior and senior years. “I’d grown up within walking distance,
how much she liked reality TV. Variety is built in: “You never know
and I was at Classical when my mother heard about coeducation.
what’s coming down the pike. You meet a lot of people you’d never
She said ‘Why don’t you do this?’ I didn’t realize I was being brave.
meet otherwise. Until I worked on Best Ink, I knew nothing about
It was tough in a way I didn’t expect…but I never felt I had to
tattoos. There’s some gorgeous body art out there!”
Performing Arts / Performing Alumni
prove anything academically to the guys. Many of us girls were in
16
Beth Taylor’s feminist lit class, and she pushed us to develop our
On casting reality TV: “For Project Runway, you have to be talented.
own voice. She was an inspiration.”
For The Real World, you need a compelling personality. Every show
is interview-driven, so we look for people who are charismatic,
After MB, Sasha studied film at Wesleyan. “Film theory, honing
our craft and taste and voice — production came later,” she says.
authentic, articulate … and we want diversity. We used to liken our
“During college, I got an internship with the State Department,
shows to WWII genre movies: the rube from Arkansas, the awkward
documenting overseas endeavors such as building wells in
intellectual, the tough guy from Brooklyn with a heart of gold…”
Bangladesh. I used the cameras and the editing equipment, tried things on for size… and they paid me! Then I spent nine years in
On watching it: “There’s a huge audience appetite for competition
New York, doing various jobs in film. I started out getting coffee
shows, docu-soaps, so many forms. Everyone lives through heart-
for people, and worked my way up to cappuccino. I knocked on
break, romance, career drama. It’s fun to watch other real people go
every door. Finally I was producing documentaries for PBS.
through it, not actors. The Real World is in its 29th season! That show
Documentaries became my passion.”
broke a lot of barriers: it was the first time some people saw gay,
HIV+ or transgender characters … and not characters, real people.”
Autism: the Musical (2007), Sasha’s first documentary film
See the trailer for Sasha’s most recent documentary: http://valentineroaddocumentary.com/trailer
Heroes
art
Behind the Scenes: Matthew C. Jacobs ’73
design
“I’m a visual storyteller. I interpret the story that’s been written. I put it into an environment and build the sets that help tell and illustrate the story. I read the story or script — what I call ‘the Book of Words’ — and then start designing from there.”
You might not recognize Matthew Jacobs from the
MB stage or other performance venues — but
was a season ticket holder to the fledgling
more unusual, the better.’” Matthew designed
chances are, you’ve seen his work. Matthew is an
Trinity Theatre. From age 12 on, Matthew saw
plays, operas, musicals, even a TV soap opera
award-winning art director and production designer
every play there — until college and even after.
for ten years. He’s also designed for ballet — in
who got his start at Trinity Rep and has had a var-
This led to his introduction to Trinity set
fact, 20 at venues around the world.
ied career in television and film since then. Matthew
designer Eugene Lee, whom he would later
is the visual creator behind shows such as Lost,
work for.
ing on the Lifetime show Army Wives and the
Heroes, General Hospital, Justified, Homeland,
feature film Purge 2 Anarchy. “In the last half of
Revolution, and Under the Dome, plus notable
MB: “I was more interested in girls and sports.
my career, process has become more important
movies and videos.
But I loved my English class with Mr. Leonard,
to me than the final result — not that I’m not
who was very smart and thoughtful. He taught
concerned with the result, but it’s really impor-
MATTHEW ATTENDED MB FOR UPPER SCHOOL,
me how to conceptualize what I was reading
tant to me to be happy about who I’m working
after moving to Rhode Island with his family
about and how to understand things at a very
for and with, to have good communication and
from Ann Arbor, Michigan. He commuted from
concrete level.”
enjoy the process.”
Narragansett, played soccer and hockey, and
belonged to the Chess Club. After MB, Matthew
nation, and he decided to pursue a career in
MB memories: “I’m a big fan of Moses Brown.
went on to the University of Rhode Island to
set design. He began working for Eugene Lee
It was a great place for me where my individu-
study theatre. After graduation, he began
fresh out of college, which led to work for PBS
ality was uncovered and encouraged. I felt free
working as an assistant to Eugene Lee, the
and films like Easy Money. He moved to L.A. in
to be creative at MB. It was not a restrictive
award-winning set designer for Saturday Night
the mid ’80s where he still lives with his wife
environment in any way. Moses Brown let me
Live and Trinity Repertory Theatre.
and daughters, and began designing videos for
be curious.”
the new MTV channel. He even got a Billboard
Building things came naturally to Matthew.
Once in Rhode Island, Matthew’s mother
Matthew says he wasn’t a great student at
Award. “I said, ‘I can design anything. The
Most recently, Matthew has enjoyed work-
All of these factors were a powerful combi-
“My family had a construction business in Chicago led by my Swedish great-grandfather who worked until the age of 89. I grew up with sawdust in my nostrils!” Spending formative years in Ann Arbor, while his mother pursued her doctorate, was another influence: “My brother and I were raised in a very creative environment, taking in plays like Waiting for Godot, spending Friday nights at the Cinema Guild, watching old black and white movies, vintage films with Buster Keaton and Humphrey Bogart.”
Matthew has served as production designer or art director for > TV – Army Wives, Under the Dome, Revolution, Homeland, Teen Wolf, Lost, Justified, Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles, Heroes, General Hospital, The Scarlet Letter (PBS) > Features – Trespass, Tekken, Dream a Little Dream, Aria, Hammett, The Guyver > Emmy nominations - Lost, Heroes, Live from Baghdad, On Golden Pond, General Hospital > Art Directors Guild Award for Live from Baghdad (HBO) > Production designer on more than 20 music videos, including Tom Petty’s Alice in Wonderland-inspired “Don’t Come Around Here No More”, which won an MTV and Billboard Award > Has designed more than 50 award-winning plays, ballets and operas. > See more at mcjart.com.
17
THE MOMENT STILL FEELS CLEAR TO NATE SILVER. He donned a wig and dress, climbed onto a table in Gifford, and performed the balcony scene as Juliet with his eighth-grade scene partner. “I’m not saying it was then and
Nate Silver ’06 Chicago-bound
there that I decided I’d make a career for myself in theater, but it certainly was the first time I considered it,” he reflects. Two years later, Nate played Giorgio in Barry Marshall’s Museum. After that, theater facilities played an integral part in Nate’s college search. He headed to Vassar planning to double-major in
Conference. The perfect blend of his love
Chi-Town: “Chicago theatre is porous and
drama and political science, take the LSAT in
of theater and interest in leadership (he was
welcoming. Full of artists who work desk jobs
senior year, go to law school, and become an
in the MB Student Senate, after all), working
by day and rehearse by night, people here
attorney by age 25. But “along the way the poli-
for the NSLC eventually became a year-
make theater out of a desire to tell stories and
sci major fizzled to a passionless minor (ulti-
round job in Chicago and New York. The
a love for the collaborative form. Sure, there
mately just a handful of classes I took freshman
flexible schedule lets Nate pursue theatrical
are commercial powerhouses in town, theater
year), I took no LSATS, applied to no law
opportunities and explore his interest in
companies with budgets rivaling anything in
schools, graduated with a B.A. in drama, and
directing and theater management. He is
New York, but even at those companies, any-
moved to Chicago with no real life plan,” Nate
now managing director of Jackalope Theatre,
body — even the artistic director — will answer
says. “And somehow it’s worked out just fine.”
an exciting young company in Chicago.
your email or call and be happy to meet with
The future is bright for the company, as
you. They all want to welcome you to Chicago
approached to start the high school theater
Time Out Chicago named Jackalope the best
because you, like them, made the conscious —
program for the National Student Leadership
up-and-coming theater of 2013.
not obvious — choice to be here.”
In his junior year of college, Nate was
Sam Daly ’02
Center Stage: Young Alumni Spotlight
Superman
18
SAM DALY NEVER THOUGHT HE WOULD BECOME AN ACTOR. He
(“I thought my parents were nuts for being actors”). In his young
went to Middlebury planning to major in economics — until he
career, he’s weathered the writers’ strike, worked with George
took macroeconomics that first semester and realized it was not
Lucas, and been booked on The Office, but says, “The coolest part of
the major for him. However, the film class he took was … and
my career has definitely been being the voice of Superman in the
when Sam found that he could get credit for watching his favorite
new Justice League: The Flashpoint Paradox animated movie! Once
movies and writing about them, he was hooked. He majored in
you’re in the Superman family, you never fall out.”
film, moved to California after graduation, and never looked back.
Sam has been getting a wide range of roles recently, from Justice
See Sam: You can catch Sam on the upcoming TNT show Murder
League and Red Tails to The Office and Hot in Cleveland. He enjoys
In The First and on Hot In Cleveland (shown with co-stars above) on
playing all kinds of roles. Recently, he’s been working on a new
TV Land, plus the upcoming films After Darkness (starring Kyra
show called Murder In the First where he plays a Mormon pilot. Last
Sedgwick) and Submerged. The Daly Show is Sam’s recurring, and
fall, he depicted a “crazed, creepy” drug addict in a movie titled
very funny, web series with his dad, found on YouTube.
Redwood Highway. Each role brings a new challenge and forces him to tap into different emotions that help him grow as an actor and
MB memories: Sam sang and beatboxed in the a capella group
person: “It’s a constant learning experience because you’re always
Voices and is one of the few MB students to score 1,000 points in
evolving as a character in every story. I enjoy the challenge. As for
basketball. Sam also was a member of the 2000 (New England) and
whether I prefer movies or TV... as an actor, I just prefer working!”
2001 (R.I.). championship football teams. A possible sign of his
future career track, he was part of the stage crew in freshman
Tim grew up around actors — his parents are Tim Daly and
Amy van Nostrand, though he does not count that as an influence
year for the play Get Smart.
Photo: © Sasha Arutyunova
Billy Domineau ’07 Story pirate BILLY DOMINEAU WAS ALWAYS
INTERESTED IN COMEDY GROWING
and performs with the NYC-based children’s theatre group Story
Billy also is a freelance contributor for the Onion News Network
UP, favoring comedians with off-
Pirates. “Since you can end up playing to an audience of 500 kids in
beat sensibilities — think Monty
an old gym with awful acoustics,” he says, “it demands a high level
Python, Conan O’Brien or The
of precision to convey story and character in a way that will translate
Simpsons. In his freshman year,
at the back of the room. It’s fun to play big and goofy. Meeting the
Billy joined MB’s improv troupe. A
kids and seeing how appreciative they are is extremely gratifying.”
turning point came in sophomore
year when Seth Weitberg ’99, at the
Billy is hoping to showcase his unique sensibility and plans to
time with Chicago’s iO Improv
move to L.A. to go after TV jobs. First, he needs an agent!
Navigating the professional comedy scene can be daunting, but
Theater, visited MB to lead a workshop. Billy says, “That introduction essentially laid out the path that’s taken me where I am
Advice for young performers: “Find a medium that you are terrible
today.” He became a mainstay of the MB theater department and
at yet enjoy immensely, enough to willingly do it terribly in front
also excelled in debate, earning the MVP award one year.
of your peers and the public. That’s probably the medium for you.
If you have the presence of mind and critical skills to recognize
After MB, Billy attended the University of Chicago, drawn to
the school’s academic structure and Chicago’s comedy scene.
how bad you are, you’re probably actually pretty good.”
Realizing that he wanted to focus more on comedy, he transferred to Tisch/NYU to study television writing. Eventually he joined
Comic tweets: Sample Billy’s humor at @midschooldance, @plausi-
forces with other NYU alumni, including Spencer Novich ’06, to
blegeico and @existentialbuzzfeed. Billy says, “Twitter is a lot of
create Gentlemen Party, the improv/sketch group he now performs
fun because I can test an idea and get instantaneous feedback.”
with at The People’s Improv Theater in NYC. Billy says, “Spencer and I speak the same comedic language!”
MB memories: Billy says math teacher Bruce Shaw showed him the
comic value of underplay — “I really look forward to the day when
Perhaps the top moment of Billy’s young career came when he
got a joke on Saturday Night Live’s Weekend Update. As a freelance
he learns that an asteroid is seconds away from destroying the
contributor, he is one of about 100 comedians submitting jokes
Earth so he can blink, nod his head, and say ‘Okay.’”
every week.
BEN HUGHES WAS A NOTED MUSICIAN AT MB. Aided by perfect pitch, he pursued his love for music with energy and shared his talents widely. When the MB wind ensemble needed a tuba player, he even learned the instrument in order to strengthen the program.
After MB, Ben attended Colby. Since college, he has shared his
passion for music with others, teaching music at the Boys & Girls Club in Pawtucket and at the Jewish Community Day School of Rhode Island. Two of Ben’s teenage students even started their own business teaching music to underprivileged youth. They now have taken on his former job and are running the B&G Club’s music program.
Ben plays a variety of instruments and venues and, while in Providence,
played sousaphone and trumpet in Providence’s Extraordinary Rendition Band; with them, he traveled across the country performing in music festivals. He composed and arranged songs that the ERB still plays in their current repertoire — and says it’s inspiring to know that people are playing music he’s created.
Ben Hughes ’03 Mobile musician
Now, you can find Ben in New York, composing, playing music,
busking in the Village, and teaching in afterschool music programs: “I love the big city and hope to meet people here who can help me spread my music to a global audience.” Listen in: Hear Ben’s music at Facebook.com/benhughesmusic.
19
Photo: Brad Smith Photography
Kim Kalunian ’07
like Gloria Gemma Flames of
Radio days
the Autism Project. In her free
Hope and the Imagine Walk for time, Kim teaches dance and
ALTHOUGH WELL-KNOWN AS AN MB THEATRE KID, with roles on
choreographs youth theatre. She
the Alumni Hall stage in Oliver, The Crucible, and South Pacific, Kim
says. “It’s rewarding to be able
Kalunian can now be found working in media, an interest sparked
to share in the experience of a
by her MB senior project. “I knew I could have spent my senior
child’s first play, first routine or
project focusing on theater, but wanted to push myself out of my
starring role. I see glimmers of
comfort zone and learn something new,” Kim says. Her senior
myself in every theater kid.”
internship at the Warwick Beacon eventually led to a full-time
position at the newspaper.
with all sorts of challenges,”
Kim comments, “from dealing
Kim got her start in theatre on the Trinity Rep stage with her
“Being a performer comes
first professional performance in Nine Armenians at age 9. She also
with rejection to the physical
served as dance captain for the Radio Disney Dancers. Kim has
exhaustion of getting up at 5
performed in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, interviewed
a.m. for a dance call. But we do
celebrities like Liza Minnelli, and hosted the Boobstock breast
it because it’s so rewarding.” A
cancer fundraiser. She’s also performed on stage at Carnegie Hall
few years ago, Kim was performing in Honk at the Wheelock
and Theatre-by-the-Sea. Kim joined the Actors’ Equity Association
Theatre in Boston. The show was a musical retelling of “The Ugly
in 2012.
Duckling.” Afterwards, the cast lined up in the lobby to sign auto-
graphs. “So many children came up to us with awe in their eyes,”
Now an anchor and reporter at News Talk 630 WPRO, Kim
blends skills she mastered on stage — diction, inflection, storytell-
Kim recalls. “For some of those kids, I knew that was the begin-
ing — with what she learned at the Beacon: accuracy, consistency,
ning of a lifelong love of the arts. Knowing that theater can inspire
efficacy. “It’s a thrill every time I get behind the microphone,” Kim
is one of the greatest rewards of performing.”
says, “an adrenaline rush not dissimilar from those I got years ago
at MB!”
passion for news: “Five years ago, I never would have thought I’d
have such a rewarding career in broadcast journalism. Now, I can’t
Working at WPRO has been a learning experience: “Each day,
the news is fast and furious, which keeps things exciting and
Kim hopes to continue to blend her love of the arts with her
imagine it any other way.”
challenging.” She says meeting radio greats at WPRO, 92PROFM and LiteRock105 has been a humbling, educational bonus.
The Rhody media landscape: “Being a part of the local media land-
scape is like being a part of a large, outspoken family. Everyone in
Working in journalism has given Kim the opportunity to inter-
view legends and heroes like Tony Bennett, Ina Garten, and
Rhode Island media knows each other; in addition to the healthy
Arianna Huffington. She’s also participated in fundraising events
competition, there’s a deep camaraderie and respect.”
Gabe Long ’04 directing a music video for Danielle Brooks (Taystee on Orange is the New
Center Stage: Young Alumni Spotlight
Black) and the band Oh Honey, who recently
20
had their song “Be Okay” performed on Glee. Also pictured is Uzo Aduba (Crazy Eyes on Orange).
Gabriel Long ’04 Passing season AFTER GETTING HIS FILM DEGREE FROM CORNELL, Gabe moved to New York and began working jobs in and out of film, from carpenter and bartender to equipment technician and location scout. He secured a filmmaking fellowship through an organization called Cinereach.
Spencer Novich ’06
evening: “Everyone who arrives has an individual
Stage presence
might see me perform a ribbon dance in hopes of
experience — while they sip drinks at the bar they wooing a beautiful woman, or they could witness (and engage in) a huge ping-pong ball war during the 10pm show.”
Spencer appreciates the people he’s had a
chance to work with in his career so far: “Every project I have worked on has had its own unique set of challenges that have pushed me and forced me to grow — whether executing acrobatic choreography 100 feet above the ground or creating three shows’ worth of performance material in six weeks.” He hopes to keep challenging and pushing himself to grow in multiple mediums. If a project feels too comfortable, chances are it’s not the right step. MB memories: Spencer’s first role at MB was in seventh grade — Sky Masterson in Guys and Dolls. He launched SPENCER NOVICH IS AN ACTOR AND CLOWN. While a student at
his off-campus career with a Class of ’48 Award to participate in
NYU’s Tisch School, he performed at the New York Downtown
Circus Smirkus — his first foray into the circus world.
Clown where he received the Audience Award for Best Clown Character. After NYU, he relocated to Las Vegas for a lead role in
Special Skills: Extreme limbo, mime, eccentric dance, juggling (balls,
Cirque du Soleil’s Kà. He later appeared in the Cirque film World’s
clubs, knives, torches).
Away, worked with his comedy troupe Gentlemen Party (with Billy Domineau ’07), and appeared in Cirque du Soleil special events
Off stage: Outside of work, Spencer tends to relax with his pup and
and a Parisian TV show.
recently picked up a squash racquet again (though “it brings back
the awful memories of getting cut from the MB team”).
Spencer has performed original work all around the world and
has a passion for improv and sketch comedy. He is now appearing in his biggest project yet: Spiegelworld’s production of “Vegas
Advice for young MB performers: “Create your own work. Write your
Nocturne” inside Rose. Rabbit. Lie. at Las Vegas’ Cosmopolitan.
own plays, choreograph your own dances, film your own movies,
Rose. Rabbit. Lie. is an evolutionary venue that blends entertain-
compose your own music. One of my favorite quotes is, ‘If you don’t
ment, restaurant, night club, and full-length show within a single
build your dream, someone else will hire you to build theirs.’”
Connect! The MB Alumni Association is looking to engage young alumni and share opportunities for networking in performing arts and other fields. If you wish to learn more, please contact Karin Morse at kmorse@mosesbrown.org.
Last year, Gabe began getting hired to
Griffin: “I figured the way to bring together
highlight. After graduation, Gabe took a year
direct commercials and branded content.
narrative storytelling and photography
off to play junior hockey in Canada and
He still does editing to supplement but says
was film.”
Boston. He also was a thoughtful leader in
getting hired as a director made the dream
the diversity student group RISE.
feel much more real. Today, he has directed
an official selection at the San Diego Latino,
narrative and documentary short films,
Sin Fronteras and Tulipanes film festivals.
commercials, music videos and news pieces.
His shorts have screened at NewFest, Inside
aspect of directing, where he gets to literally
Passing Season centers on Sam, whose pro-
Out Film Fest and on PBS, and his commer-
blend photography and storytelling:
fessional hockey career has come to an end.
cial work includes spots for Sony, ESET and
“Fundamentally, I like stories (whether
He returns to his Rhode Island hometown
Cate McNabb.
documentary or fictional) that have a strong
and reconnects with old friends, but finds
narrative, a simple story that’s at the heart
recapturing youth is more complicated than
interests in photography and storytelling.
of the drama and keeps the audience
he imagined. Gabe says returning to Rhode
At MB, Gabe took classes with Kris Street,
engaged.”
Island lets him film his first feature in a fea-
Gabe’s interest in film grew out of his
Gabe’s films include Adán, which was
Gabe really enjoys the collaborative
took photos for The Quaker, and took photo-
Summer season: Gabe’s newest film will be filmed in Rhode Island this summer. The
sible, affordable place and gives the script
graphs in Cuba as part of his senior project.
MB memories: As an MB student, Gabe Long
an emotional connection — “Rhode Island is
Gabe says he became interested in creative
was well known for his hockey prowess.
a place I know well and feel very connected
storytelling through English classes with
Gabe’s team even won the state champion-
to, so that gives the script a lot of its heart.”
Lenke Wood, Abby Phyfe, and Ransom
ship in his senior year, a memorable MB
www.passingseasonfilm.com.
21
Moses Brown Alumni Association Alumni Connections Coast to Coast
The Alumni Association and Moses Brown have partnered to provide many opportunities for alumni to engage with each other and the school, locally and from coast to coast. If you would like to host an event or serve on the Alumni Association Board, please contact Karin Morse ’79 at kmorse@mosesbrown.org or 401-831-7350 x191.
Boston
MB hosted two great events in Beantown this year, a winter Happy Hour and MB Connects in April with Alex Benik ’94. Thanks to Brian Panoff ’94 for moderating.
D.C.
The Washington Art Club was the venue for an MB Connects event with Marie Ewens Brown ’95. The Weinshel sisters (with Maggie Moran ’08) had the largest family presence. A Happy Hour event was also held at Edgar Bar & Kitchen.
Providence
Homecoming & Expo Many alumni returned for this fall’s events during Expo, including our alumni soccer players. Save the date for fall Homecoming – October 17-18.
N.Y.C.
Alumni gathered for five MB Connects around the country this year.
Mark your calendar for MB Expo Homecoming Weekend! October 17-18 22
Florida
MB Connected with Richard Fain ’65 in Palm Beach (hosted by Don Dwares ’55) and at a Vero Beach
Providence
reception hosted by Dick Chadwell ’51.
San Francisco Karin Morse ’79 and Zach Florin ’94 travelled to San Francisco and visited local alumni in the Bay Area.
Family Skating Party at the Downtown Rink
Turkey Tailgate on Moran Field in November. Hosted and cooked by Sue and Vinnie ’83 and Sonny ’11 Porcaro.
MB Connects with Hugh Hysell ’83 in January
Alumni Lacrosse Game Developer Evan Granoff ’77 hosted the Prov Happy Hour at the revitalized Arcade.
Hockey MB’s annual alumni hockey match was held in December. Thanks to Anthony Lambrese ’84 and Coach Larry Tremblay for their years of service to MB hockey!
Newport Quaker Classic Golf Tournament in October
23
Moses Brown Alumni Association Reunion 2014
Classes celebrating their 5th-70th Reunions came together in May to spend time in the shadow of the elms, see old friends, recount memories, and reconnect to MB.
1944
1959
1974
1979
“Seeing all the old boys again was a treat. I would have loved to add on another day. Enjoyed visiting with old friends. I had a wonderful time!” —Bob Chamberlain ‘64
1984 24
For more Reunion photos, visit www.mosesbrown.org.
Class Notes This diploma for Alice M. Howland, Class of 1893, hangs outside of Hugh Madden’s admissions office. It’s faded, but the Howland name is clear; it’s a prominent name in Rhode Island history. Ms. Howland was certainly a notable early female graduate of MB. Her graduation dress was highlighted in an exhibit at the University of Rhode Island earlier this year, in its Historic Textile and Costume Collection. The exhibit was titled The Other White Dress: Non-Wedding Dresses of the Eighteenth and Nineteenth Centuries. Among the historic objects selected for gallery display was the white dress worn by Alice Howland to her 1893 commencement ceremony at Moses Brown. Alice was born in 1874 and died in 1968. She graduated from Vassar College in 1896 and then returned to Hope, Rhode Island where her family was based. There, she became the Hope Village librarian. Alice was a generous supporter of URI’s textiles program and land conservation in Rhode Island and even helped secure a new home for the Hope Public Library. She also founded Hope Associates, Inc. in 1950, a community stewardship program for the portion of the Pawtuxet River which flows through the village. While we don’t have a photo of Alice, we share here a photo of a female graduate from that time period. It was traditional for MB female graduates to wear white for Commencement — and, as shown on page 43-44, they still do today.
Members of the Class of 1944 enjoyed themselves at Reunion this May.
Wen Phillips ’45 and his wife Elizabeth are retired, living in New London, N.H. where he continues to work from his architectural home office, designing homes. They have three children and five grandchildren.
1945
Recent posts on MB’s new blog – www.mosesbrownblog.wordpress.com An eye-opening quest to India, by Debbie Phipps, head of upper school • An MB scholarship story: Rufus Jones • Bonjour, Quebec!, by Jerrett Wilson, world languages • Create, explore, improve:
1945
inspiring senior projects • Crowd-sourced haiku • Help break India’s cycle of poverty and child labor • Ice Side: Michael Farber ’69 •
Eliot Roberts’ 45 shared a photo of the field marker where his ancestors John and Sarah Roberts settled, plus a comprehensive manuscript on learning and leadership. Eliot’s roots run deep at MB. His mother Ruth is a graduate and his cousin Clarkson Collins ’1872 wrote “In the Shadow of the Elms.” Dr. Roberts credits a love of writing to Mr. Paxton and appreciates his
Inspiring Service: Jake Bliss ’93, by Kayla Imperatore ’12 • MB Student Senate’s 26 Random Acts of Kindness Project • Mindfulness and reading: a natural fit for Maureen Nagle • Mindfulness, yoga at MB help get your attention back where it belongs • Science electrifies Carol Entin and her students • Take it from Pete Seeger
family’s Quaker heritage. “MB’s mission is of major importance,” he says.
1945 1942
ton, Washington and has a
I still write and have just fin-
daughter who graduated from
ished a couple of articles this
totals 47. He’s taught at five
Seattle Pacific College and a
past year. One will appear in
state universities, specializing
son in food service.
the Oxford Dictionary of Bible
in golf turf. They live in Ten-
and Ethics. Also I hear that my
nessee, the Volunteer State.
Elizabeth and Wen Phillips live in New Hampshire. He has a
John Townsend writes, “I am
friends are preparing a
Eliot’s family tree has many
Hap Poole writes, “Only eight
house under construction at
now 86 and in good health.
Festschrift in my honor.”
Quakers. Ancestors John and
years before our 80th!”
Loon Mountain South Peak
Unfortunately, my wife is ill
Resort in Lincoln. They have
with diabetes. I have now been
Eliot Roberts shared a thought-
England in 1677 and settled on
three married children. Jim
retired for a couple of years
ful response with MB, reflect-
farmland purchased from Wil-
lives in Norfolk, Massachusetts
from the Harvard Divinity
ing that “educating ethical
liam Penn in 1682. Eliot and
Zenas Bliss writes, “I’m very
with a daughter at Marymount
School, where I taught Jewish
leaders is a lifelong challenge.”
Bev are the tenth generation of
busy with travel, boating and
Manhattan College. Margaret is
studies for 15 years after my
Eliot studied soil chemistry at
this family in America. Now
running a cattle ranch at my
in Holliston and has a daugh-
retirement from the Episcopal
Rutgers, receiving his Ph.D. in
retired, he continues lifelong
summer home.” Zene’s ranch
ter at Becker and a son in high
Divinity School in Cambridge,
1955. He married Beverly in
learning through “The Great
is in Wakefield.
school. Eleanor lives in Arling-
where I am professor emeritus.
1951 and now their family
Courses” series.
1944 Reunion 2014
Sarah came to the U.S. from
25
1950 Harris “Hershey” Rosen retired 15 years ago from the candy manufacturing business and lives in Providence. He recently published a book, Creating A Guide So Your Loved Ones Can Go On Living! (available at Books on the Square).
Moved by MB: Dean Woodman ’46
Wondering, like Martin Cassidy ‘51, about other MB alumni in your area? Download the new MB app to find out!
“’For the Honor of Truth’ and ‘The Pursuit of Excellence’ moved me while I was at MB but also throughout the rest of my life. Also, Moses Brown ‘moved’ me to Amherst College, where the experience there reinforced the aims set for me by MB. I am forever grateful.”
Dean Woodman shared these thoughts as part of our
1949
new Moved by MB effort (www.movedbymb.org). Dean studied economics at Amherst, and after serving in the Naval Air Corps, had a distinguished career in investment banking. While he brokered many significant deals in his career, he didn’t have to look far for perhaps his most important one. He was an early backer and investor in Woodman Labs and its signature product, the GoPro video camera, invented by his son Nick Woodman.
Dean also showed his appreciation for MB at an eventful
October weekend; see page 8 for more. Dean’s generous do-
The Class of ‘49 enjoys
nation will help support the new Community & Performance
Reunion. Thanks to Bob Kellar
Center for future performing alumni at MB. Accompanying
(above, second from left), an
Dean for the October announcement was his wife Jane and
energetic Reunion volunteer!
son Curtis, also an MB graduate (1978) and the fifth generation of the family to attend the school. Thank you, Dean!
School of Public Health. He
1947
enjoyed time in Hawaii and
also is a safety monitor for Harvard Medical School, he
Phase III of the clostridium
than a subject. However,
travel all the time, they are
worked for ten years at
difficile vaccine trial and a
we did learn English grammar
Joan and Chuck Staples
still very connected to their
Women & Infants and Rhode
founding trustee of the Child
extremely well and, for the
celebrated their 50th wedding
“retirement” community in
Island hospitals, 1997-2007.
Health Foundation.
most part, never forgot it.”
anniversary last year. They
Chicago, involved with First
At 82, Blake is still active in
also travelled to Panama and
Unitarian and the Chicago
teaching and publishing in
Barrie Shore writes, “Having
Cultural Center.
1950
Colombia, exploring the
his field.
completed my studying and
Panama Canal, beautiful
1949 Reunion 2014
work, I occasionally reminisce
Tom Campbell volunteers at
William Greenough continues
about my MB experiences.
the Littleton Regional Health-
to work full-time in the
Among my more poignant
care with his wife Pat. They
Cartagena during fiesta time,
L.A. While the Staples seem to
Panama City, a visit to the Embera tribe, El Valle, the cal-
Blake Cady was a professional
medicine division of geriatric
memories are one of William
sing in two choirs, belong to a
dera of a volcano and Gamboa.
surgeon at Harvard and Brown
medicine at Johns Hopkins
Paxton, a tyrant of English
clergy study group and ski at
They cruised the Panama
medical schools and had a
University and is also professor
grammar and head of the
Cannon Mountain in the win-
Canal on a 24-passenger
satisfying career as a surgical
of international health at the
English department. For him,
ter. Tom earned a doctor of
catamaran. In January, they
oncologist. After retiring from
Johns Hopkins Bloomberg
grammar was a religion, rather
ministry in 1995. They have
26
Class Notes Harvard Public Affairs & Communications
1953 Expert Thinking: Fifth grade teacher Lance Evans participated in his first Teachers As Scholars professional development seminar in January, attending “The Amazing Brain” at Harvard with Dr. John Dowling ’53, author of Creating Mind, How the Brain Works. “Dr. Dowling was a fantastic instructor,” says Lance. “He was clearly an expert and had a wealth of information to share. He was easygoing, approachable and presented information in a way that was accessible to all. The program was fascinating. I was grateful to spend time with other teachers learning something new, from an absolute pro. The experience piqued my interest in brain development and how it can impact teaching. I also enjoyed getting some great MB stories from John! Thanks to MB for giving me the opportunity to attend.”
1951 1952
Robert West ’51 is shown with his grandson at his 80th birthday last year.
Fred Blakeman ‘52 (front row, third from right) belongs to a men’s barbershop group, The Bull Run Troubadours, in Virginia. The last time he sang in an organized group was with the Naval Aviation Cadet Choir while in flight training in 1955.
1951
close behind with ten alumni
became an independent
chair of orthopedics and the
in the area. Download the MB
contractor on Cape Cod.
senior associate dean for aca-
App to see who lives in your
During that period, he also
demic affairs. Dick is currently
area.]
was a single parent to several
writing a book on leadership.
children. Robert and his sec-
1955
Charles Christie had dinner
ond wife moved to Florida a
two children and eight grand-
Class Correspondent
with Fred Goodrich during his
dozen years ago, where he
children. “We spend more time
J. Parker “Scotty” Scott
visit to Cape Cod last summer.
plays golf and manages a
Class Correspondent
than we like going to visit
38 Fountain Avenue
Charles and his wife Eleanor
league. They have six children
Jack Houriet
doctors, but it is keeping us
Barrington, RI 02806
have been in Chatham for 15
between them, all doing well.
2525 Turner Rd.
healthy,” Tom says. “Two
401-245-2428
years and enjoy it greatly.
weeks ago I called on 14
jpscott7779@gmail.com
1954 Reunion 2014
patients; 12 were younger than
Willow Grove, PA 19090-1625 215-657-3786 jwhour@jwhour.cnc.net
Robert West was one of three
me and two were in their 90s.
Martin Cassidy writes, “I am re-
P.G.s in ’51 and says it was an
Margaret and Richard Burton
I think I’m getting older.”
tired, but active, with teaching,
adjustment moving from the
celebrated 53 years of mar-
Andrew Tothy continues to
research and volunteer activi-
freedom of public school and
riage in April; they have two
enjoy advising corporations
Harris “Hershey” Rosen is now
ties. Are there are any other
Martha’s Vineyard to the strict
sons and four grandchildren.
and their shareholders. He
retired and lives on the East
alumni in the Houston area? If
behavior expected at MB! He
He still works full-time at the
also travels. Andy is bringing
Side. He and his wife have five
so, an alumni event may be in
graduated from Brown. After a
University of Rochester Medi-
his son and family (including
children and ten grandchildren.
order.” [Editor’s note: there are
two-year Army stint, he began
cal Center, where he has been
his two grandsons) to Hun-
Hershey recently published a
44 alumni in Texas, 11 in the
a banking career which lasted
on the faculty since 1974 in
gary to show them where he
book; see previous page.
Houston area! Austin follows
through the late ’70s. He then
many capacities including
was born and raised.
27
1958 1956
Russ Carpenter ’59 endows teaching program at Moses Brown
Ed Pease ’58 lives in Arizona and volunteers at the Arizona-
Russell Carpenter ’59 has made a generous $3.6 million gift
Sonora Desert Museum. Ed
to MB. A new endowed program, the Russell H. Carpenter
says, “It’s quite a change from
’59 Program in Teaching Excellence, will advance teaching
working with computers and
and learning in innovative ways at Moses Brown. The gift
codes.”
Will Mackenzie ’56 shares for this issue on page 10. Will and Patsy stay busy hosting performance dinners for charity-related causes.
constitutes the single largest contribution to the school’s
They travel frequently and visit Maine every summer. Will enjoyed
endowment in its 230-year history. Members of the faculty
a visit with Matt Glendinning this spring.
were the first to hear about Russ’ historic commitment at a special meeting in March.
Russ is an attorney in Washington, D.C. He was counsel to
the International Law Institute and to the Russian American Institute for Law and Economics; has been actively engaged in pro bono international human rights work; and serves on the board of directors of the human rights organization Global Rights. He speaks Russian and is fluent in French.
“The most important part of MB has always been and
will always be its teaching,” Russ commented, citing French teacher Ted Whitford as the faculty member who had the most impact on him in the upper school. He only had King Odell for a year, for eighth grade geography, but says Doc
1959
taught it so well, “that it’s the hardcore learning I most carried with me for the rest of my life.” Russ has traveled extensively in his career — 49 states, 65 countries — so that geographic knowledge came in very handy.
Nat White was voted Citizen of the Year in Flagstaff, Arizona in December. Nat, an astronomer, not only keeps his eyes on the stars, but also his community. Nat was instrumental in getting the downtown Flagstaff Public Library built.
1956
volunteers at the ArizonaSonora Desert Museum doing
an assisted living facility in
animal care work with approx-
Ludlow which Victor founded,
Stephen Dashef writes, “At
grade students develop their
Class Correspondent
imately 75 animals used for
is in its sixth year of healthy
MB, Basil Meserve and Scott
reading, writing, and listening.
Norman Baker
interpretations on the mu-
occupancy.
Corbett facilitated my self-ex-
He is grateful for the loving
1164 Riverwind Circle
seum grounds and in outreach
pression and the evolution of
support of friends and family
Vero Beach, FL 32967
programs. Ed writes, “It’s
Larry Kilham completed Saving
my confidence as a critical
who helped as he recovered
772-569-9606
rewarding. I love to hike and
Juno, the third novel in his Juno
thinker, a reader and writer.”
from two recent strokes.
normandjr19@gmail.com
read and don’t miss the snow
trilogy (available on Amazon).
In the last 35 years, family and
and cold. Absolutely love the
Larry’s synopsis is that the
psychiatric work have been
In response to an invitation
desert and mountains here, it’s
NSA’s major computer center
central for Stephen and writing
to join their 55th Reunion
a very special place.”
is being taken over by an inter-
poetry has also been a creative
Committee, Joel Davidsen
1959 Reunion 2014
national plot to control the
avocation. Since retirement,
vounteered Steve Thornton.
world. Juno, the AI supercom-
Steve and wife Carolyn enjoy
Steve writes, “Apparently Joel
puter guiding the free world
taking college courses, travel-
ratted me out that I am in the
1958 Ed Pease has lived in Tucson, Arizona for 49 years. He’s married, with two daughters
helping kindergarten/first
and six grandchildren. Ed has
Victor Field was appointed by
is endangered, and Dr. Tom
ing, family, their Vermont
witness protection program.
been retired for almost ten
Governor Deval Patrick to the
Renwick, Juno’s developer, are
vacation home, and supporting
He is, however, correct in stat-
years now from a career in IT
Ludlow Housing Authority in
kidnapped. Civilization as we
the Amherst College women’s
ing that I am related to many
systems management. He now
January. Keystone Commons,
know it is threatened!
basketball team. He also is
Quakers in my genealogical
28
Class Notes 1959 1960
Stephen Loeber writes, “I was married August 26, 2013 in Santa Fe, New Mexico after 37-1/2 years of a committed relationship which was validated by the New Mexico Supreme Court Ruling,
Dr. Clifford Brown ’60 and
December 19, 2013.” Congratulations to Steve
1962
and his husband John!
colleagues recently published a book, Solomon Northup: The Complete Story of the Author
Luthier Rick Turner ’62 shares more on his post-MB path on page 14. In the
of Twelve Years A Slave. This
’80s, Rick stepped back from music and spent time doing everything from
biography recounts Northup’s
construction to furniture to cabinetwork. He was even foreman on a remodel
life, recently made into the Oscar
of a San Francisco hotel owned by Peter Dwares (the Emperor Norton Inn).
Award-winning film. Cliff is a professor at Union College and also a descendent of Roger Williams; he is president of the Roger Williams Family Association.
‘59 alumni enjoyed a visit with Ruth Whitford at Reunion.
1961
1959
1959
Joan and Arnie Gass ’59 visited India in February, with a two-day trip through Kerala. Arnie was especially taken by its physical beauty. They are pictured in front of the Taj Mahal.
1961
Bill Greenberg ’61 (goalie) recently competed in the USA Senior Games.
Melanie and Rick Presbrey live
1962
past including one who was
on the Cape; they have four
headmaster of a Quaker
children and six grandchildren.
Anita and Bill Greenberg
USA Senior Games Champion-
school in North Smithfield that
He has been CEO for a non-
(parents of David Greenberg
ship. He applied for his third
David Gass writes, “I work for
predated MB and who worked
profit affordable housing
’92 and Tanya Greenberg
U.S. patent in March. For his
the Highlands Coalition which
with Moses Brown in planning
agency for 40 years: “I love the
Weinstock ’94) have four
70th birthday, Bill reactivated
is empowering a low-income
MB. Also, my early relatives
work and have no intention of
grandchildren. They will be
his flying license and is
neighborhood in Lynn, Massa-
sold land in Providence to
retiring. I still love cars, as I did
attending the 50th reunion this
progressing to re-qualify his
chusetts. In a city park, we are
Moses which became part of
in the MB days and have a
month of his hockey team’s
instrument and multi-engine
replacing gangs with gardens.
the campus.” Amazing roots!
small collection of vintage
trip to the Frozen Four Tourna-
ratings. Bill is president of
View our page, www.facebook.
We are grateful for Steve’s
sports cars.” Rick has been
ment in Denver in 1964. Bill re-
Mercury Products, a fashion
com/CookStreetParkCommuni-
work to rally the troops to
racing for 20 years, along with
cently backstopped Minnesota
jewelry company tracing its
tyGarden. Since my by-pass
attend their 55th.
two of his three sons.
to a second place finish in the
roots back to 1910.
surgery, I am 98% vegan.”
29
1964
Kenneth Copans ’64 enjoyed Reunion in May. Ken has been a practicing CPA for the last
World Stage: the 2014 Olympics
44 years. He continues to work as a CPA/financial planner focusing on eldercare, estate planning and individual taxes. He also represents 10-plus NFL coaches.
Michael Farber ’69 wrote to MB from his tenth Winter Games (18th overall). Michael is leaving Sports Illustrated
1964
after Sochi although he will stay on as a special contributor. What made these Games special is they were the first for his daughter as a journalist. Gabrielle TétraultFarber is a reporter with the Moscow Times, the English daily newspaper in Russia. Michael covered the men’s hockey tournament in Sochi, his principal Olympic assignment since joining SI in 1994. “Starting with The Miracle on Ice in Lake Placid 1980, I have had the best seat in the house for some of the sporting moments that
1965
have gripped the globe,” he says. “I have had the most
Peter Franchot ’65 is comptroller
privileged professional life of anyone I know. I have
of the state of Maryland and
travelled the world, seen where-were-you-when?
also served 20 years in the Mary-
moments and had many laughs in the course of four-
land General Assembly. He has
plus decades of sportswriting.” Michael will still write
fond memories of his MB days.
Class of ‘64 at Reunion.
and do features and short documentaries. He is a weekly regular on TSN (“the ESPN of Canada”) and a consultant
second home on Cape Cod and
with NBC Sports. He is shifting some of his energy to
Peter Franchot has many fond
two children, Abbe and Nick. “I
medical device companies.
enjoy a new granddaughter, Myriam, and celebrate that
memories of MB: “My favorite
love my friends from politics,
Nine years ago, he became an
his cancer has been in remission for almost three years.
teachers were Ms. Jensen, Mrs.
but family is everything,” says
entrepreneur in the medical de-
Follow Michael on twitter @michaelfarber3.
Woodbury and, of course, Mrs.
Peter. “I still remember like it
vice space. They sold that com-
Wilson. My least favorite
was yesterday, my first day in
pany in 2013 and relocated to
course was ‘shop’... just could
kindergarten which was not a
Colorado to continue their ac-
never get those little bookends
happy day for me, when Mrs.
tive lifestyle. Anne and Bill live
metics marketing website in
to look right. I sometimes won-
Woodbury came over and sat
in Berthoud and run an eques-
Manhattan and 13-year-old
der where all my classmates
down next to me and read The
trian operation at their ranch.
Richard Armstrong lives in
Jonathan is one wild and crazy
from those days ended up.”
Carrot Seed which cheered me
He would love to reconnect
Hawaii. He writes, “I also have
guy, barely kept in check by
Peter went to Amherst, spent
up. I bought a copy of it the
with classmates; contact him at
a nice house in northern Luzon
his mother. We’re considering
two years in the Army, at-
other day for old times’ sake.
bill@raptorridgeinc.com.
in the Philippines. I travel
sending him to summer camp
tended Northeastern Law,
Still a great read!”
often to Southeast Asia, China,
in North Korea.”
worked in Washington for the
1965
Union of Concerned Scientists,
Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan,
1966
Curtis Mays lives in Ketchum, Idaho where he writes and
Peter Rapelye and his wife
was staff director for then-
Janet are still in Princeton,
Congressman Ed Markey, and
Bill Wheeler lives in Colorado
writes, “I ski most every day in
After decades of wandering the
New Jersey and spend frequent
was elected to the Maryland
and has fond memories of his
the winter. I hike and play golf
globe for Uncle Sam, the Asso-
time in Duxbury, Massachu-
House of Delegates. Eight years
three years as a boarder at MB:
in the summer. I live with my
ciated Press and Bloomberg
setts. She is still at the helm of
ago, he ran successfully for
“MB helped me develop com-
son, Kirby, 28, right next to
News, Ab Katzman settled in
Princeton admissions. Their
comptroller of Maryland. “I
munication skills which have
Bald Mt. at Sun Valley. I am
Greenwich, Connecticut with
daughters are doing well.
love the job,” he says, “and will
served me well throughout my
very liberal, politically. All
his Dutch wife Marlou, doing
“After 40 years in education,”
be running for my third term
life. I have great respect for the
alumni, staff/former staff and
forestry and conservation work
Peter reflects, “I am thankful to
this fall. Any visitors to Annap-
education I received there.” Bill
friends of MB are invited to
for the local Audubon Society.
have chosen a career with so
olis or the Washington area,
has been married to Anne for
look me up; I will give you a
Ab shares, “My son David is
many dimensions, memorable
feel free to look me up or call
35 years; they have three chil-
tour of our beautiful valley of
studying law at Cornell, daugh-
moments, and enduring rela-
me at (301) 332-1961.”
dren. Bill has spent most of his
recreation.” Contact Curtis at
ter Becky graduated McGill in
tionships. The learning process
career developing sales and
cmays22@hotmail.com or on
May and is working for a cos-
never stops.”
marketing organizations for
Facebook as ‘Curt Cod Mays’.
and Thailand.”
30
Peter has been married to Anne for 34 years. They have a
practices holistic healing. He
Class Notes 1970
Michael Tross reports from Canada, “I have great memories of Doc Odell who coached me in track which was my interest at the time. As I was a scholarship student from the U.K., I was one of the weekend and evening phone receptionists. That was a perk of the award as it was felt that we would be able to handle the phone duties and homework. I recollect that my callers received a semblance of first-class service, but my teachers received indubitably secondclass assignments. I was the youngest boarder at the time (age 12) and reveled in the freedom to walk to Thayer Street and beyond which was so different from my rigidly-bounded English boarding school. I’m afraid I went through my ‘allowance’ in short order as I bought far too many green grapes and pizza, virtually unknown treats at that time in England. MB had wonderful teachers and the atmosphere all round was outstanding. I’m pleased to see that it is continuing to offer children a fantastic learning experience in an amazing setting.”
1965 Peter Rapelye ’65 is pictured with students from Princeton Junior School where he was headmaster from 20052012 before retiring from a 40-year career in independent schools.
1967
“The Play’s the Thing …” Phyllis Gunion, Head of Drama, 1967-1985 Phyllis Gunion was the drama and public speaking teacher Thanks to Rob Wilson ‘67 for bringing Veterans Education
at MB (and Lincoln) for many years. Mrs. Gunion had a
Project to speak with English classes this past year. The
profound influence on many MB students and even helped
vets he brought shared powerful stories about serving in
MB stage its first musical — Mame. Always ready with a
Vietnam, Afghanistan and Iraq, and their experiences upon
funny story or anecdote, Phyllis lent sparkle and flair to
return. English teacher Abby Hertzmark Phyfe arranged the
any situation.
visit to complement students’ study of The Odyssey. The
occasion was dedicated in honor of Capt. Larry “Roo”
“Those who participate in Drama Club productions have
Yacubian ‘93 who passed away in October.
1970
Ron Weaver practices internal
Mrs. Gunion saw the larger purpose to her work.
those growth-producing experiences that occur when a small group of people, over a long period of time, work very closely on a project whose success is dependent upon each
medicine in Inglewood and
Steven Buckler’s children,
participant’s best efforts,” she said once.
West Los Angeles, California.
Alan Devalerio is retired and
Jeffrey and Rebecca, graduated
He writes, “I devote 100% of my
living in Frederick, Maryland.
from MB in 2001 and 2005. His
practice to EECP which is a
Alan says, “I enjoy hiking and
big news is that he and Wendy
Medicare-approved non-inva-
am still playing basketball. I’m
became first-time grandpar-
sive treatment for cardiovascu-
writing a book on the history of
ents to Sammy. They live in
lar disease. I recently went to
White House entertainment.”
Narragansett and Highland
curtain.”
Beach, Florida. Steve is presi-
dent of ACS Industries, Inc., a
by Mrs. Gunion. He reflected in a recent Reunion survey:
Macau and Vietnam and will be traveling to Japan to ski. My brother John Weaver ’62, also a
1969 Reunion 2014
Longtime language faculty and current school Archivist
King “Doc” Odell says, “Phyllis had a sense of warmth that was remarkable. She never wanted to join the cast on stage for the applause, but rather preferred to stay just behind the Ahvi Spindell ’72 was one student greatly influenced
Rhode Island-based manufac-
“Phyllis Gunion taught me how to stand still and breathe on
doctor, works with me.”
Thatcher Harvey has started a
turer of auto components with
stage. It applies to every moment of life. Listen and focus.”
1967
new job as engineering man-
plants in Mexico and China.
1971
one time an actress and model there, Phyllis also made film
ager at DGSI - Durham Geo Slope Indicator. “I’m glad to be
Alan Reider is a senior partner
back in the design realm,” he
in the Washington office of
says. “We’re planning a two-
Peter Gross rows regularly at
Arnold & Porter LLP, specializ-
phase trip to Europe this sum-
the Narragansett Boat Club
ing in health care law. He says,
mer — a choral concert tour
and competed in the Veterans
“Last year, I celebrated my
and a motorcycling in the Alps
Single in the 49th Head of the
40th wedding anniversary and
and Dolomites.” Alan lives in
Charles Regatta. He says, “I
Phyllis had her own career in NYC before teaching. At
shorts for 20th Century Fox Studios, appeared in summer stock in New Hampshire, and performed in productions on and off Broadway. In the 1950s, she appeared on the local TV program, Let’s Play Charades. Mrs. Guinion was active in Rhode Island community theatre.
In 1987, the Alumni Hall stage was dedicated to Phyllis
both of my children are hap-
Lake Forest Park, Washington
still have fun rowing!” Peter
Gunion. Her special spark and talent ignited the dreams of
pily married. I have been very
with his wife Yawei and can be
was recently elected president
hundreds of MB students. It is fitting that the stage where
fortunate.”
reached at thatchh@yahoo.com.
of the Hope Club.
she shared her creativity and love still bears her name.
31
Matthew Jacobs ’73 shares more of his post-MB
1979
path on page 17. Raising two daughters in L.A. with his wife Jerrilyn, Matthew has kept busy working. Matt says he sent his daughters to the best private school in L.A. (Marlborough) as he went to the best private school in Rhode Island. “MB was a great environment for me,” he says, “as well as for my brother. Private school education is worth that money!” One of his newest projects is art-directing the new Maya Rudolph show for NBC. After much travel over the last sev-
1973
eral years for work, Matthew is enjoying being
Sue Minter ’79 delivered MB’s Commencement address in early June.
home and enjoying all on offer in L.A. “I love
She also returned to campus in May for Reunion. Sue is Deputy
California and being part of this amazing city.” He
Secretary of Transportation in Vermont and was head of the state’s
enjoys returning to Narragansett each summer.
response to the devastation wrought there two years ago, following Tropical Storm Irene. Sue served in the Vermont state legislature for six years and has worked as a professional planner for two decades.
1973
She was one of the first girls to attend MB in its return to coeducation
Congratulations to neurologist
in the late 1970s. Sue got her start in public service at Moses Brown —
Andrew Wilner ’73 on his new
she was the first girl elected President of the MB Student Senate.
book. He says he wanted to write a book that would demystify the
1978
brain, using real-life examples. See what Melissa Maxwell ‘81 is up to now — page 13.
Susan “Sasha” Alpert (profiled on page 16) says she shares her love of cinema with her husband, a film critic, and their kids who enjoy everything from
1981
1979
classics like Buster Keaton and Star Wars to The Godfather and Girls.
Cliff Faintych ’79 and Deb Graziano completed a trek in Solukhumbu, Nepal this past November. They are pictured at Mt. Everest Base Camp in Nepal at 17,598 feet.
1979 ‘79 classmates Sue Minter and Roger Goodman returned to speak at Reunion weekend and snap this fun photo. Both work in government. Roger is finishing his fourth term in the Washington State House of Representatives. He is chair of the House Public Safety Committee with
Congrats! Legacy graduates 2014
jurisdiction over the criminal justice
Congrats to many of our ’70s-80s alumni celebrating children graduating from MB this spring: James Brown ’76 | Steven Calabresi ’76 | Carl DeLuca ’78 | John Rooks ’78 | Cynthia
system. His district represents the Seattle
Hyatt Shorris ’78 | Neal Steingold ’78 | Jim Stallman ’79 | Paul Ardente ’81 | John Scungio
suburbs of Kirkland and Redmond.
’81 | Wesley Keigwin ’82 | Joseph Voccola ’82 | John Cariati ’83 | Ted Fischer ’83 | Vince
1979 Reunion 2014
Giordano ’83 and Lisa Rocchio ’84 | J. Clark Donatelli ’84
Amy Roebuck Jones writes, “All
1973
is well in Chesapeake, Virginia. what we can do to keep them
1974 Reunion 2014
Ally is 15 and in ninth grade.
Neurologist and epilepsy
safe. I wanted to write a book
specialist Andrew Wilner has
that would demystify the
to help people make sense
written a book, Bullets and
brain, using real life examples
of it all.” Andrew is medical
Jacques Bauer writes, “The Alps
teams, carrying on the running
Brains: “Our brains are crucial
— from the tragic brain injury
director of Lingkod Timog, a
are still standing, one last haven
tradition just like her mom.
to everything we do, but most
of former Congresswoman
medical mission group that
of peace.” Jacques lives in Lyon,
Andy is retired from the U.S.
people have very little under-
Gabrielle Giffords to Shaquille
travels annually to the Philip-
France and can be reached at
Navy and now works as a
standing of how they work and
O’Neal’s snoring problems —
pines. Follow him @drwilner.
bauer.jacques@free.fr.
civilian for the same group. ”
32
She runs for the Great Bridge High cross country and track
1982 Congrats to comic Tom Cotter ’82 — recently inducted into the Rhode
Photo: Frank O’Donnell
Island Comedy Hall of Fame!
Hugh Hysell ’83, Tony Award winner and Theatre Producer, NYC
1986
Interviewed by Emily Pinkos ’13 I sat down with alum Hugh Hysell to chat about his past and present business ventures in the world of New York theatre. Hugh — who used to have his own key to Alumni Hall — boasts a network he has been steadily crafting throughout his entire
Kimberly Sousa Panton has become a
career, as well as being a Tony Award-winning producer.
health advocate after her sons became ill with the autoimmune disease PANS.
So, talk to me about HHC (Hugh Hysell Communications). I was
Kim (front row, left) founded the NE
vice president of a company called the Walton Group, until
PANS/PANDAS Parents Association.
three years later, when I bought it out. All our clients decided
They coordinated a conference in
to stay on and work with me, and thus, HHC was born. Over
Providence which drew more than 480!
the course of HHC Marketing, I marketed more than 200
1983
Broadway and Off-Broadway shows. What happened next? Well, in 2004 I became friendly with an
1983
Israeli couple who had created a site in their spare time called Broadway Box, where people could share discount codes for show tickets. That year it was launched as a commercial vehicle, and then became a sought-after e-mail blast system. A little over a year ago it was sold to Broadway.com. Where are you now? Clearly, judging by the location of your office, still firmly planted in theatre in some way. I’ve been at NYU as a director of marketing and development at NYU Skirball. I still run a portion of HHC Marketing called The Men In February, Brian Nichols ’83 toured MB with daughters Alexandra and Sophia, mother
Former Development Director Tom Rouillard and his wife
Mildred and wife Geri.
Event, which is an event company for the LGBT community in New York. And I’m currently performing on Broadway in two shows right now, My Big Gay Italian Wedding and My Big Gay Italian Funeral. [Congratulations to Hugh on his new position
Joan, parents of Kent who attended lower school with
at GrouponLive! See below for more.]
Ted Fischer ’83, met at a Friday night hockey game at
Kimberly Sousa Panton’s boys,
Meehan Auditorium. Kent and his wife Rachel teach at
9 and 10, became ill last year
Charles River School in Massachusetts.
with an autoimmune disease
Do you love it? I love it. I love marketing. Every day is entirely dif-
called pediatric autoimmune
ferent; it demands the creative spirit, as well as follow-through,
to Cuba. Jamie ’85 and Hope
neuropsychiatric syndrome
charm, and anal-retentiveness, which seems to be my area.
’87 are both doing well. Jamie’s
(PANS). “We traveled the
son William is a freshman at
country seeking treatment,”
MB and loves it!”
she says. After finding out how
1986 Elizabeth Worrell Carroll hosted
widespread the disease is and
Are you happy? You love your life? Hell yeah. I love my life.
Emily Pinkos is a theatre student at Drew University in Madi-
son, New Jersey.
an MB alumni event at her
This past summer, Marnie
how few doctors know how to
home in Newton in November.
Patterson Cochran traveled
treat it, Kim founded the NE
Elizabeth shares, “It was a very
with her husband and kids to
PANS/PANDAS Parents Associ-
is the Tony Award winning producer of Vanya and Sonia and
nice, intimate gathering. My
Barcelona and Stockholm. Last
ation (www.nepandasparents.
Masha and Spike (winner, Best Play, 2013) and Peter and the
17-year-old is in the process of
fall, she had a terrific dinner in
com). Their recent conference
Starcatcher (2012). Hugh also connected with other alumni in Janu-
applying to colleges, always a
Boston’s North End with
in Providence drew more than
ary, at an MB Connects event at the Snapple Theater Center in New
daunting process. Our 16-year-
Heather Parker Beliveau, Randi
480 people from 30 states, the
York. Hugh spoke about his work in theater and the influence of
old, a junior at Dana Hall, just
Bean Diemand, Elizabeth Wor-
U.S. and Canada, and more
played squash against MB. Our
rell Carroll, Tracy Abedon Filosa
than 100 doctors. Kim is now
MB. Hugh was previously director of development and marketing at
other two kids are plugging
and spouses – “Lots of fun!”
working with national experts
along in middle school. I have
Marnie also enjoyed seeing
and the head of the NIMH’s
a bit more time on my hands
several old friends at Eliza-
pediatric division to increase
now so I am taking advantage
beth’s MB fund-raiser in New-
access to care for families
of that and doing some travel-
ton, including Hope Worrell
needing help. Kim still runs
Young alumni, or alumni of any age: if you wish to
ing — biking in Santa Barbara
’87, Larry Specht, Missy Crouch-
her toy store, Rock Paper
interview another MB graduate for Cupola, please
with girlfriends and traveling
ley Hem ’85, and Min Ahn ’85.
Scissors, in Duxbury.
let us know! Email alumni@mosesbrown.org.
Thanks, Hugh, for sharing your time with Emily and MB! Hugh
NYU Skirball. Hugh also has opened an Off-Broadway performance center at 601 Eighth Avenue and was recently hired to lead National Broadway and Live Arts for GrouponLive.
33
1988
1988 Don Jones ’88, v.p. for Boston’s Natixis, was pleasantly surprised to learn his facilitator from the Effective Edge was ML Banchoff ’86.
Beth Vadala Zerilli ’88 ran the Boston Marathon in honor of Martin Richard, the boy who died in last year’s bombing and the son of friends. Beth ran for TEAM MR8, raising funds for the Martin W. Richard Foundation.
MB has a new student group this year — Equal Voice — and students want to hear from you. Upper school girls formed the club out of a desire to explore issues of women in
1987
leadership at MB and the larger community. Alumnae: do your part. Please send a note or update, suggest a female classmate, or say yes if asked to share your story. MB strives for
Rachel Littman ’87 is busy with family and volunteering. Her son Adam dances with
gender balance in its alumni publication — we need your help to accomplish that!
the School of American Ballet and has appeared in Nutcracker at Lincoln Center. They live in New York. Bob Donahue is glad to get back in touch with MB and
Rachel Littman left full-time work last March to spend more
Elizabeth Marks Lizotte sent
connects to the performing
Technomad; he has been with
time with family and volun-
her son to college in Vermont
arts theme of this issue. Bob
them for the past 18 years and
teer. She is a member of MB’s
in the fall; he is studying
worked at the Iron Horse
is currently the company’s
Trustees Committee and
sustainability and mountain
Music Hall in Northampton,
operations supervisor.
comes to MB almost every
recreation. She writes, “I be-
Massachusetts way back at the
month to participate in meet-
came a licensed mental health
beginning of his career. Bob
ings. She writes, “Our 11-year-
care provider and work as an
was a sound engineer for the
old, Adam, has been dancing
emergency room clinician at
Iron Horse and Pearl Street
Don Jones, vice president and
with the School of American
Butler Hospital. I am trying to
Night Club then: “I basically
learning officer for Natixis
Allison Baird writes in response
Ballet for a few years and just
survive the empty nest which
cut my teeth there,” he says.
Global Asset Management in
to the alumni/ae soccer game
finished his second Nutcracker
became easier when I met up
Bob then worked for a couple
Boston enjoyed meeting Mary
invitation last October, “After
with the NYC Ballet Company.
with Janelle Grand-Anson again
of sound companies including
Lynn “ML” Banchoff ’86 re-
playing lacrosse throughout
I stay in touch with Marc Lon-
recently.”
Audio Pro Media. From there
cently. They learned they both
college, I reacquainted myself
don; our daughters have been
he started touring nationally,
were English Speaking Union
with soccer post-college and
friends since pre-K. My 9-year-
Steve Toulmin lives in Lyme,
working for various artists and
Scholars after MB, as well —
have played in a few corporate
old Amanda is happily at the
New Hampshire with his wife
record labels. He eventually
Don at Hustpierpoint College
leagues. Lately, I’ve been en-
new Avenues School down in
Heather and children. He suc-
ended his touring career as
in West Sussex, England and
joying a weekly family soccer
Chelsea and doing gymnastics.
cessfully ran for school board
FOH engineer and production
ML down the road at the Ro-
pick-up game I organized with
We recently moved to a
in the only contested election
manager for Bill Morissey.
dean School in Brighton. They
some folks in my town. My el-
brownstone closer to Central
in town. Steve is on the special
After coming off the road, Bob
enjoyed catching up on all
dest daughter loves the game
Park and subway, a great
education staff at the Ray
started working for a loud-
things MB, Rhode Island, and
and plays on two teams.”
quality of life change.”
School in Hanover.
speaker company called
England!
1987
34
1988
Class Notes 1991
Shown in October at the Quaker Classic at Newport Country Club: Doug
Isabella Califano Ehrlich ’91 with husband Tim, and boys, Julian
Morrison ’87, Scott Miller ’88, Tim Ehrlich (husband of Isabella Califano
and August, in Little Compton last summer. They live in Concord,
Ehrlich ’91) and Rich Horan.
Massachusetts.
Gaia Liotta ‘09 launched a Kickstarter campaign to produce a film about her late father Peter Liotta ’74. “MB was a highlight in our lives,” says Gaia. For the last two years, Gaia has produced/ directed a film called Nel Mezzo Cammin, which deals with loss and how to deal with it through the narrative lens of Dante Alighieri. She launched a Kickstarter campaign for finishing funds. “Ransom Griffin would revel in that my obsessions with Dante continued,” says Gaia. “In fact, the artwork featured in the Kickstarter promo was from my senior art show, which dealt with Dante-inspired work. I credit my passion for film, literature and the arts to my MB education. Like my father, MB taught me to look deeper than the surface and discover further connection and insights into our world.”
1989
1991 Welcome back to MB, Adam Olenn! See page 4.
Class of ‘89 at Reunion.
1991
1992
Mark Lasser has been named,
year’s bombing. Beth ran for
by the U.S. State Department
TEAM MR8, which raised funds
appointment in Macedonia, as
for the Martin W. Richard
they had raised just over
creative director for Burt’s Bees
Class Correspondent
the Senior Justice Advisor for
Foundation. Bill and Denise
$1,000,000. Anyone interested
Baby, Isabella Califano Ehrlich
Kelley Ciampi Wigren
the Bureau of International
Richard (Martin’s parents)
in donating to Martin’s foun-
resigned last summer to focus
8 Juniper Rd.
Narcotics and Law Enforce-
were college friends of Beth
dation can do so at http://
on her boys. Her husband Tim
Wellesley, MA 02482
ment Affairs. Mark has been
and her husband, Sal. “Since
www.firstgiving.com/fund-
(a Belmont Hill alum) is a law
781-235-4512
based at the U.S. Embassy in
then, we were looking for a
raiser/BethZerilli/team-mr8-
partner in Boston. Isabella’s
kelleywigren11@yahoo.com
Skopje since December.
way to help an impossible
boston-marathon-2014.
sister Sophia Califano Spaete
After four years working as a
situation,” she says. Having
“Money raised will go directly
’98 is now in Durham, North
Congratulations to local busi-
Beth Vadala Zerilli ran the
previously run Boston in 1998
to peace initiatives, which
Carolina with her husband
ness owner Davide Dukcevich
recent Boston Marathon in
and 2000, Beth applied and
promote the things Martin
Josh. She’s a fellow at UNC
‘92, one of four Rhode Islanders
honor of Martin Richard, the
was selected as runner #1 for
loved: school, athletics, and
Chapel Hill, getting her
invited to this year’s State of
little boy who died in last
Team MR8. By marathon day,
community,” says Beth.
master’s in public health.
the Union address in January.
35
1994
In the business? If you are working in performing arts in any way,
Debut: Dan McKinnon ‘94
Performing alumni: In 2012, Adam Machado ’94 won a Grammy for Best Album Notes for the 136-page book he wrote to accompany
Congratulations to Dan McKinnon ’94 on his new film,
Hear Me Howling! Blues, Ballads & Beyond: The Arhoolie 50th
Missing William, released this spring. “MB holds a special
Anniversary Box Set. Adam works for Arhoolie Records, in El
place in my heart,” says Dan, who was an MB “lifer,”
Cerrito, California. This small record company has captured more
attending from N-12. Dan wrote the screenplay three
than 50 years of traditional American roots music.
anywhere, we want to know. Share information for a future MB event/ gathering or networking. Email alumni@mosesbrown.org
years ago and through a lot of hard work and effort — including securing funding, producers, directors, and
Thanks to Jason Weiss ’93, guest editor
locations. His dream became a reality this spring when
and interviewer for this Cupola. (Jason
Missing William appeared on big screen nationwide.
is shown with Rick Turner ’62.) Jason
Missing William was filmed in Portsmouth, Newport,
joined MB drama in his junior year
Roger Williams Park, Federal Hill, and Edgewood and is
after a sports injury. “I started with
a romantic drama starring Brandon Routh (Superman).
Pirates of Penzance,” he says, “but I
The film highlights love that lives through loss, following Abby, a 30-something artist living in Rhode Island. The film is touching, poignant, and concludes with a realization that’s as profound as it is beautiful.
William’s opening weekend was a huge success. The
1993
was horrible. I got better though.” Jason lives in West Hollywood, California and hopes to see future MB gatherings with other performing arts alumni. “Let’s get together and talk!” he says.
movie sold out the Cable Car. Dan is co-owner of Aloris Entertainment and has several projects in works. See the film trailer at http://www.alorisentertainment.com
1994
Alex Benik ’94 was the guest speaker at MB Connects in Boston in April.
1994 Class of ‘94 at Reunion. facilitation and idea generation consultancy. Happy to
Theraplant was one — scoring
use and the numbers are
report that all six of us are
highest in the evaluation
expected to climb. Ethan says,
doing well, though “ReeMee”
process. The company will
“I think we can show that this
are winning the cuteness com-
convert a former Watertown
industry, done responsibly,
Jon Rappoport writes, “Danielle,
petition by a long stretch! Best
industrial building into a large-
can help a lot of people. I
Ryan, 4, and I were thrilled to
to all my MB schoolmates,
scale marijuana-cultivation
would love to bring the relief
welcome three new babies into
teachers, etc. from Chicago!”
operation. Ethan has been
I have found in this palliative
Semia George Dunne’s florist
wheelchair-bound in constant
medicine to others.” Ethan’s
business Flowers by Semia,
1993
the Rappoport family in
1994 Reunion 2014
October: twin sisters Reese and
In January, Connecticut
pain following a spinal cord
company will focus on strains
Inc. had its work featured in
Mila, as well as rapid fig LLC
approved four state licenses
injury 14 years ago. More and
that treat the 11 debilitating
the fall 2013 issue of Martha
(www.rapidfig.com), Daddy’s
to grow medical marijuana.
more patients are getting
medical conditions approved
Stewart Weddings magazine.
new strategic and creative
Ethan Ruby’s company
certified for medical marijuana
by Connecticut.
Congratulations, Semia!
36
Class Notes 1995 1995 See what Chloe Johnston’s
Congratulations to Andy
up to on page 12.
King ‘95 on his new book!
1999
1997
Looking back, moving forward: Thanks to former faculty member Roxie Bratton (shown catching up with former colleagues), Stephanie Ogidan-Preston ’97, and Len and Judy Cabral for hosting a panel on diversity at MB this past winter, with Karim Sow. Several former alumni of color and parents returned in February for an evening dinner discussion. What stood out amid the range of experiences described that evening was the significance of human interaction in shaping a student’s time in our community. Insights gained from this evening will be distilled into a set of lessons to catalyze new initiatives at MB. If you weren’t able to attend but wish to offer thoughts or join future events like this, please contact Erik at ewilker@mosesbrown.org. Is there a particular memory that still resonates with you, something
Seth Weitberg is working in L.A. as a writer/ producer. He is co-executive producer for Season 2 of Drunk History on Comedy Central.
that speaks to your experience at MB? What helped you most in your time at MB; what might have helped you more? Are there other organizations that you are connected to or aware of that are doing things that MB could learn from? Are there ways that you would like to stay connected and active with the MB community?
1996 Eric and Kate Sullivan Fleming’s daughter Parker turned 1 in December. They live in Brooklyn, but are pictured on the Cape with
Ashley Earle Weiderman ‘01 and
Elton. Kate left her teaching job at
Cabot Earle ‘97 both had children
the West Side Montessori School
within a day of one another!
to focus on family.
Cabot’s oldest Henry is all smiles in his grandmother Anne’s arms. Alexandra and Theodore were both born in November.
1999 Reunion 2014 Class Correspondent
Paul from set design and con-
Kirstin McCarthy Boehm
struction. They are chronicling
Elisa Magendantz Barton
3613 13th Street, NW, Unit2
the work on the house at old-
reports from the United King-
Washington, DC 20010
newbarn.wordpress.com.
dom, “My husband Sam and I
1995
401-447-5770 kirstincboehm@gmail.com
had our third child, Stella, in
Chihiro Yokouchi publishes
September. I’ve recently left
Andy King ’95 returned to
ers) in Salem, Mass. Their new
my job running the corporate
Providence this winter to read
cookbook is Baking by Hand.
Sylvia Scharf and her wife Jane
children’s books and is per-
events team at the Wallace
at Books on the Square in Way-
Andy says the Square was his
recently bought a two-family
forming, too, reading plays
Collection in London, to
land Square. Andy and his wife
stomping grounds as an MB
house in Wakefield, Massachu-
with a dancer and live painter.
concentrate on Stella and her
Jackie now own an artisan
student, when he and his friends
setts with Sylvia’s parents. MB
She hopes to return to the U.S.
siblings Robbie and Nina.”
bakery (A&J King Artisan Bak-
ate at Newport Creamery.
theater students will know
to perform someday.
English-Japanese musical
37
2001 Elizabeth and Matt Monbouquette stopped by campus last fall. They live in White Salmon, Washington, where Matt manages the Columbia River Gorge’s premier bike shop, Mountain View Cycles.
Lauren Bono Sunshine ’02 shared a lovely article on her recent Quaker/Jewish interfaith wedding in New Orleans. Lauren says,
2003
“I think back fondly on my time spent at MB, and the Quaker education I received shapes my life and family daily.” Lauren’s rabbi,
Jake Duhaime (center) is shown at the Sochi Olympics with figure skaters
David Gruber, beautifully describes Quaker
Simon Shnapir and Marissa Castelli, from Cranston. Jake worked for the
traditions and the importance of acceptance
Olympic News Service as a hockey reporter and assisted at USA House.
within all religions. Read the full article at
Jake recently joined a startup company, Thuzio, which organizes VIP
www.interfaithfamily.com.
athlete experiences for clients. He also is involved with the City of Boston’s exploration of bidding to get the 2024 Olympic Games.
Photo courtesy Claire Hutchinson, Claire Elyse Photography
2002
2002
Sara Farley recently married Will Hart in Boston. MBers at the ceremony included Sara’s brother Matthew ’99 plus Laura Jackson ’01, Maddie Gray, Charlie Means ’69, Caroline Laye ’00, Kai Schwertner, Hillar Schwertner ’06, Laura Gruber, Stephanie Sabra, Ben Simon, Matthew Fishbein, Derek Freeman, Sam Daly, and Adam Freedman.
Scott Robbin and his wife Hannah are excited to announce the birth of their daughter Ayla, born in March. Scott writes, “Mom and baby are both
2002
2001
doing great.”
Highlands B&B. My wife is from Northeast Washington so I get to root for the Seahawks
Matt Monbouquette stopped
2002
when the Patriots are playing.
by campus last fall with his
We just bought our first house
Class Correspondent
new bride. Matt and Elizabeth
here in the Columbia River
Liz Donat
live outside Seattle in White
Gorge.” In addition to manag-
519 N 40th Street
Salmon, Washington. Matt
ing Mountain View Cycles,
Seattle, WA 98103-7714
says, “My wife and I got
Matt also is a level one Cross-
401-864-9600
married in July at the Husum
Fit instructor.
emdonat@gmail.com
38
2003 Georgia Mischak ‘03, a Hollywood actor, and her friend Nelson Franklin, were unable to be at Moses Brown for last year’s Reunion festivities, but visited for a tour of the school, including a look at her senior tile.
2004
See page 18 for our spotlight on young alumni launching careers in the performing arts. Skyler Fernandes ’04 gave a recent TED Talk on “Innovating the Financing of Innovation” at Connecticut College. He has launched a $100M venture capital fund and leads his own seed fund, One Match Ventures.
After completing her voice/ music degree at Eastman and teaching and performing for two years in Rochester,
2004: Reunion!
Meredith Achey ’06 and boyfriend Laudon (here in Paris) are now in Baltimore. She is completing premedical studies at Johns Hopkins and hopes to
2006
begin medical school in 2015.
2005 2006
Jessica Gazin ’05 says hello from Colorado. She lives outside Keystone
Devon Hopkins ’06 married Marc Whet-
with her boyfriend Stefan and their
stone last May in Kansas City. Her wed-
Lab, Hank. They welcome visitors!
ding party included sister Kirstin ’01, brother Tristan ’03, and Georgia Hoyler.
Thanks to Amanda (Wayne) Perry ’88, Sarah Lindblom ’07, and Derek Simpson ’08 for
They are going to Ireland this summer
sharing with MB upper school students earlier this spring!
for their honeymoon.
He gave the first TED Talk on
the mountains. She’s working
Skyler Fernandes recently
venture capital called Innovat-
at Target while figuring out
in low-income mothers and
launched the Simon Venture
ing The Financing of Innovation
what to do next — “If you’re in
their children. In October, she
Group, to focus on investing in
and has created a number of
the area, visit!” (jessica.gazin@
moved to New Orleans to work
the future innovation of retail,
resources for entrepreneurs
gmail.com)
on a large project integrating
Class Correspondent
including in-store and online/
including one that went viral
Kori Burnham
mobile shopping, logistics, in-
called ‘The Best Startup
6 Searle Ave., Apt 1R
ternet of things, and data ana-
Investor Pitch Deck’.
Easthampton, MA 01027-1133
lytics. Simon Venture Group is
508-954-3981
the largest retail tech focused
kori.burnham@gmail.com
fund in the U.S., or as he says
2004 Reunion 2014
2005
2006
mental and behavioral healthcare into schools and primary care clinics in areas affected
Class Correspondent
by the Deepwater Horizon oil
Nate Silver
spill and past hurricanes. She
2046 W. Cortez #2
writes, “I have particular inter-
the “Google Ventures” for the
Dan Winston writes, “Natalie
Chicago, IL 60622
est in the effects of exposure to
Ted Parker took this year away
retail tech space. The fund is
and I are still in D.C. and doing
401-272-3319
stress and trauma in early
from teaching high school
backed by Simon, the largest
great.”
silver.nate@gmail.com
childhood on long-term devel-
English to study private school
commercial real estate com-
leadership at Teachers College,
pany in the U.S. and an S&P
Jessica Gazin packed up and
After graduating from Skid-
research and clinical work in
Columbia University. He
100 company. Sky writes, “I’ll
drove from Connecticut to Col-
more, Lucy King spent a year in
this area. I love the beautiful
writes, “I’ll be working my way
be leading the group as the
orado. She spent a ski season
Beijing teaching ESL and two
city of New Orleans and am
toward administration, hope-
founding managing director. I
working in Vail, then went to
years at Boston Children’s Hos-
excited to support a project
fully making more schools look
also lead my own seed fund
Denver to work as a toddler
pital as a research assistant
that helps strengthen its sur-
like MB.” Thanks, Ted!
called One Match Ventures.”
teacher, before moving back to
examining stress and trauma
rounding communities!”
40
opment, and plan to continue
MB’s second TEDx event, in October, celebrated endeavors that advance understanding of the world and appreciation of human potential. Attendees heard powerful presentations from Albie Dahlberg ’87, Andres Idarraga ’95, Alisha Pina Thounsavath ’96, Jessica Photo: Erika Nizborski Photography
Mastors ’05, Peter Ferry ’09, and Ava Anderson ’12. See all talks at tedxmosesbrown.com.
Sarah Lindblom ’07: Performing at MB Then and Now Sarah Lindblom ’07 was involved in theatre and dance during her time at MB, appearing in A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Anything Goes. Sarah also performed with an outside dance company, Fusionworks II.
After MB, she went on to major in classics and dance at
Smith College where she was elected vice-artistic director Congrats to the Class of ‘09, celebrating their first MB Reunion this May!
of Smith’s resident dance company. Next, Sarah attended the University of Maryland to earn a master’s in library science, concentrating on archives and the performing
University and had a “blast,”
clams, and oysters in the
Devon Hopkins Whetstone
after shaking off freshman-
Island Creek Hatchery. It’s
married Marc Whetstone
year homesickness. Hannah
tough work and a lot of man-
own dance exhibit, and found her passion for preserving
last spring in Missouri in her
ended up with a double major
ual labor, but it’s very reward-
cultural treasures.
parents’ backyard. Nate Silver
in marine biology and Spanish.
ing and I couldn’t be happier!”
and Erik Duhaime attended.
She also studied American
Devon is finishing her master’s
Sign Language and photogra-
After college, Melissa Gordon
Division of the Library of Congress. I archive performing
degree in psychology at James
phy, played softball, and dis-
spent a year living in Costa
Madison University.
arts collections and aid in their preservation for future
covered RWU’s Luther Blount
Rica, working for the School for Field Studies, a college
generations.” She continues to dance in and around D.C.
2009 Reunion 2014
Shellfish Hatchery. And that is really where Hannah’s adven-
study abroad program focused
ture began. She started out as
on sustainable development.
arts. She worked in a performing arts archive, curated her
“Performing arts are still a huge part of my life now,”
says Sarah, “as I’m a contractor working in the Music
and participates in a choreographic collective. Working at the Library of Congress: “I feel so lucky to have
Class Correspondent
a lab assistant and quickly re-
Betsy Tammaro
alized that it was something
Liam Miner is now in Colorado.
69 Londonderry Way
she was interested in and
His final year in college was
every day. As with any privilege, responsibility is not far
Uxbridge, MA 01569
ended up spending the major-
spent researching relations
behind. I feel responsible to my superiors, the researchers,
401-477-6545
ity of her free time working!
between the U.S. and Latin
and really to the country for making the collections I work
betsy.tammaro@gmail.com
Hannah spent her senior year
American countries, specifi-
with preserved, inclusive, and accessible.” Sarah is now
researching the larval culture
cally regarding the drug trade
archiving the materials of the famous actor and comedian
Marcela Donat finished up her
of the Eastern oyster, working
from Mexico. Liam has taken
Danny Kaye and his wife, composer and lyricist, Sylvia
fifth year at Northeastern
with URI graduate students.
a job as a consultant for a
University, graduating this
She knew this was a passion
software firm in Denver that
Fine. “I’m humbled and gratified every day,” she says.
May with a B.S. in rehabilita-
that she wanted to continue.
helps Fortune 1000 companies
tion sciences. She will continue
Hannah is now the hatch-
analyze their customers’ experiences.
the opportunity to archive the nation’s cultural memory
Worth checking out: Sarah highly recommends the LoC’s Performing Arts Encyclopedia (http://www.loc.gov/perform-
for one more clinical year,
ery manager at Island Creek
graduating next May with a
Oysters in Duxbury, Massachu-
doctorate of physical therapy.
setts. “I never thought this
Kaia Simmons is finishing up
links to finding aids of the Library’s performing arts collec-
dream would come true,” she
her master’s in engineering at
tions and names such as Jelly-Roll Morton, Martha Graham,
After MB, Hannah Pearson
says. “I work seven days a
Stanford and will be moving to
Aaron Copland, George and Ira Gershwin, Irving Berlin, and
attended Roger Williams
week growing clams, surf
NYC to work in private equity.
Leonard Bernstein.
ingarts/pae-home.html), which has detailed entries and
41
From the MB music archives Some of today’s young alumni had a powerful experience in 2002 when the lower school chorus met with the legendary Pete Seeger and performed together at a concert event at Rhode Island College. When Seeger passed away this winter, the MB-Seeger connection was recalled. In 2002, the lower school chorus met with Seeger at a concert event at Rhode
and performed with a chorus from MLK
Island College, held in the wake of 9/11.
Elementary. Read the full story at moses-
MB students were led by Mary Pollart
brownblog.wordpress.com.
Inspiring Service: Jake Bliss ‘93 2012 The new MB blog featured a beautiful piece this spring, by Kayla Imperatore ‘12 on the late Jake Bliss ‘93. As many classmates know, Jake was a lifelong Quaker who donated his time to help the homeless in California and in the Dominican Republic. Jake passed away from ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) in 2012 but his work and impact are still felt.
Kayla worked as Jake’s scribe while in the DR. She
shares what it was like to meet Jake: “Jake made each person he talked to feel important. Each morning it took about an hour on the bus to get to the poor villages where we set
Jessica Litwin ’12 (front row, third from left) was excited to perform at the White House last
up the clinics, and each day he tried to sit next to someone
semester with her college a cappella group, the Nor’easters, in a private performance for the
different. Though the bus rides were long, they were always
President and the First Lady.
entertaining in Jake’s presence. It wasn’t until I worked with him, though, that I truly understood him. I admired
2013
Jake’s ability to just enjoy the moment; to laugh, to take risks, and to make others smile. I appreciated his ability to let go of his worries; to know that he may not have much longer in the future, but at least he has now. Amazed by Jake’s ability to live in the moment instead of dwelling on how much more the future might hold for him, a part of
2012
me changed. I have always heard people say the clichéd expression ‘life is short,’ but being in Jake’s presence gave the expression a new meaning. Sure, life really is short, but it’s
Emma Dickson was featured on Rhode Island Public
what you decide to do with it that matters most.” Read the
Radio’s This I Believe. Emma is a Providence native, MB
full post at http://mosesbrownblog.wordpress.com.
lifer, and Brown sophomore. Last summer, Emma interned at the R.I. State House. Listen to her essay at http://ripr. org/post/i-believe-rhode-island-silence. Emily Pinkos ’13 interviewed
2010
2012
cappella) last spring in NYC.
These are recent, tangible ex-
The performance at the White
Class Correspondent
amples of why I am so grateful
Class Correspondent
House was a thrilling way to
Jamie Gilson
for my years at MB.” Last year,
Emma Dickson
end her fall semester. Jessie is
100 Prospect St.
Ben was one of the first ju-
201 Fifth Street
taking this semester off from
Providence, RI 02906
the group to work on other
Providence, RI 02906
niors to be admitted to Teach
401-421-1640
for America; he will be teach-
401-273-2356
projects of interest.
jmgilson425@gmail.com
ing math in L.A. He also won
emdi@verizon.net
2013
Best Delegate in the Harvard
Hugh Hysell ’83 for this Cupola (see page 33). Emily is a student at Drew University in New Jersey, studying theatre. Young alumni, if you wish to interview another MB graduate for Cupola, let us know! (alumni@ mosesbrown.org)
From the “unparalleled foun-
National Model United Nations
Jessica Litwin got to perform at
dation” that he received at MB,
2014 Conference and is getting
the White House with her col-
Class Correspondent
Jessica Magro is on a gap
Ben Levine says some nice
a Fulbright Scholarship to be
lege a cappella group, the
Áine Russell
year before attending Yale
things have happened to him
an English T.A. in Indonesia
Nor’easters. Jessie also had the
6 Jody Way
University. She is currently
recently — “These events
next year, after graduating
chance to compete in and win
Attleboro, MA 02703
working as an SAT tutor and
might be helpful in advertising
from Pitzer. Ben is looking for-
the ICCAs (International
ainerrussell@gmail.com
college admissions consultant
the value of an MB education.
ward to Reunion next May!
Championship of Collegiate A
(508) 838-8672
for Revolution Prep.
42
Keeping it light: Members of the Class of 2014 celebrated their day with music, a crowd-wide “wave” and some dancing to John Mellencamp’s “Jack and Diane,” one of the songs on the playlist for their last-day-of-class cookout.
Making their Debut: The Class of 2014! As the Class of 2014 heads off to freshman year at college and adventures beyond MB, Moses Brown School wishes them the best. Come back to MB for Homecoming this fall!
Sue Minter ’79 delivered this year’s commencement address. Now deputy secretary of transportation in Vermont, she was head of the state’s response to the devastation wrought there two years ago, following Storm Irene. Sue got her start in public service at MB — she was the first girl
Next acts:
elected president of the Student Senate. “The experience of coming to
Best wishes to the Class of 2014 heading to:
Moses Brown became a truly positive contribution to my life,” she said.
American University (2) The American University of Paris
Kudos! MB thanks Barry Marshall, Lee Clasper-Torch and Debby Neely for all their years of service and impact. They walked their last Commencement as faculty this June.
Amherst College Auburn University Bates College Baylor University Bentley University (2) Berklee College of Music Boston College (7) Boston University (6) Brown University (2) Bryant University (2) Bucknell University College of Charleston University of Chicago Colby College (5) University of Colorado at Boulder Connecticut College (2) Dartmouth College (2) Davidson College Denison University Duke University Elon University Emory University Franklin & Marshall College (2)
Congratulations to 2014’s Legacy Graduates! See full list on page 32.
Gap Year: Internships and Travel (2)
43
George Washington University (2) Gettysburg College Hamilton College Harvard College Haverford College High Point University College of the Holy Cross Ithaca College Kent School (PG) Kenyon College Lehigh University (2) Loomis Chaffee (PG) Maryland Institute College of Art Massachusetts Institute of Technology Miami University University of Miami University of Michigan Mount Royal University (Alberta, Canada)
Kat Achey ’14 (left) received the 2014 Thomas Prize. Mr. Thomas was Headmaster 1925 through 1955 and Mrs. Thomas taught music and drama. The award recognizes a senior who has labored hard to develop a talent of great value, and has exemplified a willingness to share this talent with others. Other performing arts awards presented this spring include: The Award for Drama – Robert Calabresi ’14, Rebecca Kestin ’14, and Eliza Radeka ’14 Performing Arts Award – Brooke Goldner ’14
Northwestern University (2)
Choral Music Award – Remy Fischer ’14
Ohio State University
Wind Ensemble Award – Ben Curell ’14, Caroline Ohlson ’14
University of Pennsylvania
String Ensemble Award – Nick Pohl ’14
Princeton University (2)
See mosesbrown.org for all awards.
Providence College University of Rhode Island (3)
Instrumental Music Director Steve Toro
University of Richmond
celebrated his 20th
University of Rochester
Commencement this
Rollins College (2)
spring. His colleague
University of San Diego
Mary Pollart (lower
Skidmore College (3)
school music) celebrated
Taft School (PG)
35 years at Moses Brown.
Trinity College (2) Tufts University (3) Tulane University
Bravo! MB Survivors 2014! MB “lifers” here since lower school.
University of Southern California School of Cinematic Arts
Keep in touch!
University of Vermont (2)
See past editions of Cupola at www.mosesbrown.org/cupola
University of Virginia
Share a note for the next issue at www.mosesbrown.org/classnote
Washington University in St. Louis
Follow MB at www.facebook.com/mosesbrownschool
University of Washington Wellesley College Wesleyan University Wheaton College Williams College Worcester Polytechnic Institute (2) Yale University (2)
44
Whether you’re a newly minted alumnus or a longtime graduate:
Share or follow MBlog at mosesbrownblog.wordpress.com Send us your email to get alumni e-news and event invitations (www.mosesbrown.org/alumni) Send news/notes/photos/feedback for Cupola to alumni@mosesbrown.org Follow MB on Twitter @Moses Brown Check us out at instagram.com/mosesbrownschool# Find MB on Vine - https://vine.co/Moses.Brown.School
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.
Theodore Tucker, Class of 1938, a CPA, served his country in the Army during World War II. Ted was the 1991 Willis McLean Citizen of the Year and a member of the Walpole Chamber of Commerce, the Walpole Scholarship Foundation, and the Walpole Appropriations Committee. He was a member of the board / treasurer for the Norfolk Lung Association, Norwood Hospital, the United Church and Black Cat Island Civic Association. A golfer, traveler, and avid reader, he loved boating. (8/13)
Henry Lind, Class of 1939, earned his bachelor’s at Princeton and law degree from Harvard. He served in the Army during WWII as a staff sergeant in military intelligence and continued to serve in the Army Reserve, retiring as a Chief Warrant Officer. Henry practiced law and was selected to be the reporter of decisions of the U.S. Supreme Court. He was founder
Donald Ashton, Class of 1943, an MIT graduate,
Willard Freeman, Class of 1947, attended Rhode
and first president of the Association of Reporters of
served in the Pacific aboard the USS Grimes during
Island State College (URI). Willard grew up riding
Judicial Decisions; an award in Henry’s name is given
WWII. He worked as an industrial engineer before
horses in South County and was a steeplechase rider
each year to a person making an outstanding
joining his father at Thomas J. Ashton & Son, Funeral
before becoming a thoroughbred trainer. He trained
contribution to law reporting. His book, The Long Road
Directors (later the Waring-Sullivan Homes). Don was
for Sagamore Farm, the American thoroughbred
for Home, was published in 1992. (11/13)
president and CEO of Union Savings Bank, serving
breeding farm in Maryland owned by Alfred
until the bank’s merger with Citizens, where he became
Vanderbilt II, owner and president of Baltimore’s
senior v.p. He was a 32nd degree Mason and avid sailor,
Pimlico Race Course. In South Carolina,Willard was
fleet captain of J-24 Class Fleet 47, and member of
president of Aiken Training Track and owned Chime
Narragansett Bay Yachting Association. (2/14)
Bell Farm; he summered in Saratoga. (4/13)
House, a management and consulting firm. Later,
Thomas Cary, Class of 1943, served with the Army’s
Robert Straight, Class of 1947, a v.p. of R.I. Hospital
Granville earned an M.B.A. from the University of New
11th Armored Division, which landed on the beaches
Trust Bank, received his bachelor’s degree from
Haven, obtained a mariner’s license, and worked on
of Normandy days after the invasion; he later
Bryant and completed post-graduate courses at the
various Northeast harbour projects. He volunteered at
deployed to Belgium, part of a tank battalion at the
universities of Chicago and Oklahoma. He was an
Mystic Seaport, taking visitors along the Mystic River
Battle of the Bulge. Tom received the Purple Heart and
Army veteran of the Korean War. Bob was a Shriner,
in their 100-year-old coal-fired steamboat. (10/13)
Bronze Star. His battalion has been recognized by the
past director of Providence Court No. 7 Royal Order
U.S. Army’s Center of Military History and the U.S.
of Jesters, treasurer of the Masonic Veterans
Holocaust Museum for liberating Mauthausen, one of
Association, a life member of Providence Lodge #14
the Nazis’ largest internment camps. Following his
BPO Elks, and a member of the Greenville Volunteer
Army discharge, Tom earned his B.A. from Brown,
Fire Company. (9/13)
Granville Beals, Class of 1941, attended Dartmouth but left to enlist in the Marines, later becoming a Navy pilot. He completed his B.A. while serving as a recruiting officer. After the Navy, he joined Harbridge
Nicholas Mumford, Class of 1942, spent his first six years living in Cuba while his father worked as a chemical engineer for United Fruit. He received bachelor’s and master’s degrees from MIT and served
then began a sales career in electronics. (1/13)
in the Navy. Nick worked in aerospace, including as
Marshall Cannell, Class of 1948, was a dedicated
head engineer for the development of the Lance
Robert Kinder, Class of 1946, graduated from Brown
member of the ’48 class and a mentor, historian and
missile. He co-authored the college textbook Jet
and GWU, served in the Navy, and completed his
contributor to MB’s theatre program. One young
Propulsion for Aerospace Applications. Following
residency and fellowship at Jackson Memorial
alumnus said, “Marshall was such an important
retirement, Nick worked for the Episcopal diocese of
Hospital and Massachusetts Eye & Ear Infirmary. Bob
presence for all of us drama kids — he really helped
Michigan. He also discovered he was a descendant of
was professor of ophthalmology at Brown and
instill in us a sense of the history of MB’s program.”
the Mayflower’s John Howland and two signers of the
surgeon-in-chief in R.I. Hospital’s ophthalmology
An MB “lifer,” Marshall went on to get a degree from
Declaration of Independence. (1/13)
department. He served as president — medical staff at
Brown and a master’s from Northeastern. His varied
R.I. Hospital. Since 1968, he volunteered yearly,
career included work as a computer programmer and
providing eye care at St. Jude Hospital in the West
minister. He worked for the Coro manufacturing in
Indies. The clinic was named the Robert S.L. Kinder Eye
Providence, the Strategic Air Command in D.C., and
Clinic and Bob received the St. Lucia Medal of Merit,
Wellesley Public Schools in Massachusetts. (3/14)
the only non-St. Lucian accorded this honor. (7/13)
Memoriam continued on next page
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In Memoriam Continued from previous page
M. Howard Triedman, Class of 1948, graduated
Thomas Paolino, Class of 1959, graduated from
Robert Sondheim, Class of 1968, worked at the
summa cum laude from Brown. He received his
Brown and George Washington School of Medicine
Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission for 26
medical degree from Columbia University. Howard
and did his psychiatric residency at Harvard Medical
years. He coached youth and Sharon High School
served in the Navy before establishing his neurological
School, the first student from his medical school to do
swim teams and was the voice of Sharon basketball
practice and joining the staff at Rhode Island and
so. After two years of service with the Coast Guard,
and football. He became athletic director for Sharon
Miriam hospitals. He was professor emeritus at
Tom was appointed as a unit chief at Butler Hospital
Public Schools 11 years ago. Bob was proud of his
Brown’s Warren Alpert Medical School and chief of
and joined the faculty at Brown. He was an assistant
English Channel swims to benefit various local
the neurological service at Miriam, where he was
professor at Harvard Medical School, author of numerous
charities. He loved singing, often performing with the
president of the medical staff. He was also a member
articles and books on psychotherapy, and a practicing
Sharon Community Chorus. In honor of his late wife,
of the investment board of Lifespan and the R.I.
physician in R.I. for more than 30 years. (2/13)
he was developing a device to assist those handling a
Workmen’s Compensation Board. (12/13)
wheelchair along with a walker or other necessary
Allan Cokin, Class of 1960, graduated from Cornell. Donald Chirnside, Class of 1951, a Korean War
He was a world-class, professional bridge expert and
veteran and graduate of Bryant, was a self-employed
teacher, highly respected and liked by his colleagues.
businessman. He was a member of the Little Rhody
Allan lived in West Palm Beach, Florida. (1/14)
items. Current faculty member Jeff Cruzan, who knew Bob, says, “He epitomized the role of an MB grad in the world. Bob never had an unkind word for anyone.” (4/13)
Model “A” Club, the R.I. Beekeepers Association and the Eastern Apicultural Society where he served as treasurer. Don was a member of East Greenwich United Methodist Church. (7/13)
David Curtis, Class of 1964, attended Boston University and served in the Air Force, stationed on Guam as a staff sergeant and aircraft mechanic for C130 transport planes. David had a successful career
Benjamin Nutt, Class of 1969, loved traveling, photography and music. He was the son of former MB English teacher Richard Nutt. Ben lived in Ticonderoga, New York. (7/13)
Wayne Paton, Class of 1952, graduated from Harvard
as an ASE-certified auto mechanic. He began to fix
and completed an M.A. in English at the University of
cars as a teenager, developing a passion for Chevrolets
Andrew Richardson, Class of 1971, a graduate of
Columbia. He moved to London to pursue research on
and Corvettes. This passion developed into circle track
Brown and Suffolk Law, started his legal career at R.I.
Henry James and was appointed lecturer at the
racing, then to drag racing with his sons. He often
Legal Services. He became a court-appointed trustee,
University of Leeds. During the course of his lengthy
traveled to NASCAR and NHRA events and was
presiding in 14,920 cases. Andy was the designated
career there, Wayne taught across a number of areas
especially fond of Talladega Speedway. (10/13)
trustee of several of the State’s most prominent
of literature, drawing on his background in classical literature and wide knowledge of English, American and French literature. (1/14)
bankruptcies, including Newport Creamery and Rocky
Peter Scull, Class of 1964, graduated from Roger Williams College, receiving a degree in literature. He was the first selection on the “People to People”
Point. He successfully argued in front of the R.I. Supreme Court, U.S. District Court, First Circuit Court of Appeals and was qualified to argue in front of the U.S. Supreme Court. He was treasurer of the R.I.
Charles Silva, Class of 1953, served in the Navy for 12
baseball team that toured Latin America in 1964. Peter
years and was a naval aviator during the Vietnam era.
served in the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War.
He worked in the tennis court contracting business
He held a property management degree and was
and retired as owner and operator of Silva Associates.
owner of CPM Management Company as well as co-
Robert Accola, Class of 1977, a hiker of the
Chick lived in Chesapeake, Virginia. (10/12)
owner of Video Showcase in Jamestown. (11/13)
Appalachian Trail, was known on the trail by the
chapter of the Federal Bar Association. (4/14)
nickname “Lucky 10.” He loved the Trail’s camaraderie and was known as a supportive member of the AT
Charles Lyons, Class of 1956, spent his early years all
Charles Round, Class of 1965, was a graduate of
over the world, including England, Italy, and Turkey.
Roger Williams College. Throughout an evolving
He spent his later youth in the Boston area and as a
career, he was salesman, promoter, owner of a
teenager sold hot dogs at Fenway Park, becoming a
security alarm company, fisherman, carpenter/house
lifelong Red Sox fan. Chuck earned his A.B. from
builder and commodity trader. His great joy was
David Stallman, Class of 1978, a graduate of Boston
Brown and was a member of ROTC. He served with
sailing and working on his boat. (1/14)
College, received his master’s in accounting from
the Fleet Marine Force, Pacific, as 1st Lieutenant, Marine Corps. He received his LL.B. degree from Suffolk Law and worked as in-house counsel for the Hartford Steam Boiler Inspection and Insurance Company. (2/14)
Carolina. (7/13)
Bryant and law degree from Roger Williams. He
Alan Mason, Class of 1967, graduated from Harvard before earning a doctorate in mathematics from the University of Illinois. He was a gifted childhood musician whose Providence recital at age 14 was reviewed by the New York Times. Later, he composed several organ concerti. Alan taught himself many languages and worked for Plenum Publishing translating Russian and Chinese physics journals. Recently, he wrote a Chinese translation program and was fascinated by developments in computational biology, chemistry, and genetics. (3/14)
46
community. Bob attended Brown and lived in North
worked as the chief estimator for Troika Stone and as director of operations for M. H. Stallman Company. Dave was an accomplished drummer in many local bands, and an avid skier. He played lacrosse for the Olde Dogs in the ONELL lacrosse league and coached youth lacrosse in Westerly. (7/13)
Kurt Hall, Class of 1985, attended Saint Lawrence College in England and Boston College. He especially enjoyed his time studying and teaching in Madrid. Kurt lived in Providence. (9/13)
J. Michael Weaver-LaMountain, Class of 1985, graduated from Colby. For the last ten years, he worked as coordinator of marketing and community relations at the Maine Center for Integrated Rehabilitation in Fairfield, and also at Kids Peace National Centers of New England and at the Good Will-Hinckley School. He enjoyed sports, board games, weight lifting, music, and semi-pro football with the Central Maine Storm. (6/13)
Lawrence Yacubian, Class of 1993, graduated from BU. An accomplished horseman, having trained in Switzerland as a young man, he competed successfully at major horseshows throughout the eastern U.S. “Rooster” volunteered for the Virginia National Guard, where he proudly served with distinction in the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq as an infantry officer, earning a Bronze Star and several Distinguished Service medals. He rose to the rank of company commander and was commended for his leadership during the presidential inauguration. (10/13)
Joseph Ryter, Class of 2005, was captain of MB’s basketball team. He attended Loyola University and focused his studies in marketing and finance. Jay was an active member of the community and served as a lifeguard in South Kingston for five years. An avid golfer, he pursued a career in golf at English Turn Golf & Country Club in Louisiana. (8/13)
Former Faculty/Staff
Louise Heckman was an inspiring teacher and mentor
Lynwood Hoxsie taught at MB after completing his
Jacqueline Fellow was the lower school secretary
to many in her years at MB. Many have fond
education degree at Rhode Island College after WWII.
1992-2005. During her many years at MB, Jackie was
memories of Mrs. Heckman in the classroom, on team
As a bombardier with the 390th Bombardment Group,
respected for her careful work, attention to special
trips and while travelling with faculty and students.
Lynwood flew 35 missions over Europe. He was
events, and concern and support for the needs of
In addition to being a thoughtful and demanding
particularly proud of the Polish Home Army Cross
others. Jackie and her husband Doug Fellow had three
English and Latin teacher from 1967 to 1998 (and later
Award and the Warsaw Uprising Cross, decorations
sons, who were the delight of her life. Jackie had a
substituting in middle school and working in
that he received from the Polish government for his
wonderful sense of humor and a smile for everyone.
Archives), Louise is remembered for her kindness,
role in dropping supplies to the Warsaw uprising. He
Much appreciated by the LS faculty, Jackie loved
caring and compelling expectations. One 1991
was promoted to colonel and served as U.S. property
gardening and cooking. One of her specialties was
alumnus reflected, “I have vivid memories of Mrs.
and fiscal officer for Rhode Island. (6/13)
Mexican food — every year, her special recipes
Heckman and the great passion she had for teaching.
continue to appear as special snacks in the LS faculty
She had a strong and lasting impact on me through
Manuel Ribeiro worked at MB for 24 years, 1989-2013,
room. (5/14)
her strict, yet very caring and positive attitude. She
as head of maintenance and security. With great pride
prepared me well for the years ahead not only
for the school, Manny played a key role in helping MB
academically, with a better appreciation for the values
run smoothly every day. His pride in and loyalty were
that she and MB represent. Her family should be
evident to all, and his kindness, generosity and wry
proud to know the inspiration and positive impact she
humor are missed. Born in the Azores, and brother of
had on so many at MB.” (2/14)
Jose Ribeiro, Manny was a graduate of Bristol High. (3/13)
47
In memoriam: David Burnham “I hope we can find ways as teachers and parents and grandparents to keep their sense of wonder from fading.”
“When I first came to Moses Brown 28 years ago,
DAVID CAMPBELL BURNHAM, Moses Brown’s Head of School
I was the single parent of a young daughter. I
from 1978 to 1994, died on June 5, just hours after his wife of 62
will never forget how kind both Dave and Anne
years, Anne Webb Burnham, passed away. Dave led Moses Brown
were to me and to my daughter. Anne rooted for me to get a job at Moses Brown, when I was working with her at Lincoln. Dave helped us get faculty housing. They were kind, good folks
during a time of transition, navigating the return of coeducation, stabilization and growth of the endowment and annual fund, and renovation of our historic buildings.
whom I remember with gratitude.“ Debby Neely, former faculty
Dave and Anne were lifelong educators: they met at Mount Hermon School (later Northfield Mount Hermon School), and came
“After my interview with David in April 1994, he offered me the only available opening at that that time: a part-time position. When he read some hesitation in my eyes, he leaned towards me: ‘Have one foot inside and it will be up to
to Moses Brown after several years at Loomis-Chaffee School. Born in Larchmont, N.Y., Dave attended Loomis, Yale and the University of Massachusetts. He was an avid sailor who won the national championship of the Bullseye Class several times, and was chair of
you to take the next step, in or out.’ 20 years
the board of trustees of the Herreshoff Marine Museum. He was
later, here I am — feet, head and body all inside.
also on the board of the Providence branch of the English-Speaking
Since then, every time he saw me around, he’d
Union and coordinated its Shakespeare competition.
joke: ‘I dragged him in, and I left!’” Karim Sow, faculty “Dave hired me in 1981, and I have fond memories of conversations with him. He used
was just recovering from the Blizzard of ’78 when I arrived.” Just 11 years after the return of coeducation, the class of ’87 enrolled
to attend retreats with the upper school
boys and girls at an even 50/50. The endowment grew more than
students and religion faculty, and was most
tenfold, from $750,000 to over $8 million. The annual fund climbed
supportive of our efforts to energize the
from $62,000 to $460,000. Under Dave’s leadership, building
Quaker spirit of Moses Brown. He was a
renovations began; East Middle House was later rededicated as
kind and thoughtful man, and a real school
Burnham House.
person through and through.“ John Baird, former faculty
48
Looking back over his 16-year tenure at MB, he wrote: “Providence
Dave and Anne Burnham brought hope and an understated set of expectations and confidence to many who were part of the Moses Brown Community and beyond. Dave had an uncanny ability to recognize and help to build upon a young person’s strengths while also gently exploring weaknesses, often far better than that person ever came to realize. He was famous for accurately predicting friendships. Anne and Dave’s care, compassion and thoughtful guidance were lifelong. Dave would extract important bits of evidence or insights about a situation, but one could always tell that it was Anne who helped to synthesize the data. Dave would often subtly appear at games, performances or special moments without ceremony, but his presence would be felt. When he occasionally sought guidance or counsel, he asked for help with a task, and while the work was being completed, one barely noticed that a series of queries had been framed, problems had been solved or direction clarified. If one were headed for a strange sea or a cold mountain, Dave could turn one around in a heartfelt way that did not squelch one’s optimism, hope or sense of adventure. Dave was the humanist whose aspirations were balanced by Anne’s steadfast realism and analysis of all situations. Dave’s mentoring and leadership and Anne’s support and care were represented by the thousands of cookies and the lasagna that she shared, and the booties that she knit. Their kindness and generosity of spirit will live on through many of us. Karin Morse ’79, faculty
Dave created a lasting legacy to the community, shaping the
“Anne and David Burnham were wonderful
experience of thousands of students who learned and grew here,
people, not only for Moses Brown, but also
as well as dozens of faculty he hired and mentored. One of his first
those of us who sought their guidance and help.
hires was Jack Craig, who wrote of Dave in 1994: “The man has incredible energy and incredible caring and concern for people. When I first came in 1978, Dave was in his office at 5:00 a.m. and didn’t leave until 11:00 p.m.” Jack continued: “If asked to describe himself, Dave would clearly place himself in the teacher/counselor position.”
I always felt wrapped in their warm humor and kindness. I feel honored to have known them.” Barbara Heavers, former faculty “I was one of the first boarding females in 1978. David became Headmaster at that time. He and Anne were the core of MB. He once raced around the track with me to help with
In fact, Dave described himself as an optimist. In a 1980 guest sermon at Central Baptist Church (later Community Church of Providence), he said: “I’d like to share with you why I am an optimist. It is because the process of growing up has been my
my self-esteem… I was the only girl on the cross-country team. He was a fast runner!” Amy Roebuck Jones ‘79 “I had a bit of a rocky senior year and the
business all my life. I mean very literally that as a schoolteacher
disciplinary committee voted to boot me out
and a head of a school, I have been involved in helping people grow
of school. Dave vetoed the decision on a couple
and this has forced me to keep trying to grow myself. We may get
of conditions, one of which was that I meet with
tired and discouraged and feel overcome by giants but God constantly gives us a fresh supply of children… Helping children to grow up in this complex world with so many amorphous giants is a hard job. I hope we can find ways as teachers and parents and grandparents to keep their sense of wonder from fading.”
him every Monday morning until graduation. I did, managed to graduate, and successfully grew out of adolescence. I’ve always appreciated the ‘save’ from Dave, and have fond memories of our Monday morning meetings more than 30 years later.” Charlie von Simson ‘82
Marking the end of his tenure, the class of 1994 dedicated their Mosaic to him: “He came to this school in a rather unsettled period, and quickly brought order and pride back to our campus. By dint of
49
“Dave always made it a point to make each of us feel seen as an individual. I still have the letter he wrote to me for graduation.” Ann Risen Katis ‘89 “A lasting memory for me is that of Mr. Burnham running up and down the sidelines of football games yelling for us to ‘kill’ them, and ‘crush’ them. I always thought it odd that a headmaster at a Quaker school would say such things, but his passion for our teams was inspiring!” Paul Rocchio ‘82 “I have very fond recollections of Dave and Anne, including being met at the Boston airport when arriving in the USA in 1993 for my year at Moses
his warmth and empathy, he re-established MB as The School of Rhode Island, and perhaps one of the best among private schools of this country. His vision and desire to reach out touched us all in both obvious and not so obvious ways. Parents, alumni, Friends, and above all, students have come to see and value him
Brown; spending my first weekend on Fishers Island with them; and trying to beat the record length of homemade pasta created around the perimeter of their living room.” Katie Rook ‘94
as a close and sincere confidant. He has brought us a fine faculty and has been instrumental in the renovation and revival of our time-treasured facilities. While
“In seventh grade, I needed to interview an ‘old
he moves away into well-deserved retirement, he can feel assured that his efforts
person’ for an oral history project. Mr. Burnham
and devotion to the school will last well into the future.”
was then serving as interim head at St. Andrews.
After his retirement from Moses Brown, Dave accepted successive one-year appointments as an English teacher in Japan and interim headmaster at St. Andrew’s School in Barrington, RI, and Northwood School in Lake Placid, NY.
He received me in his office, taking me very seriously as I marched through my questions. I never forgot his empathetic example and his profound respect for his students, a lesson I take especially to heart since I have gone on to teach
He then helped found a charter school in Providence, the Paul Cuffee School,
myself. Mr. Burnham encapsulated the school I
which merged his love for education with his passion for all things maritime;
came to know, the community so many of us
Cuffee graduated their first senior class in June.
have tried to preserve and protect over the years.” Geoff Nelson ‘01
Dave and Anne continued to sustain their interest in MB for many reasons, not the least of which are more than 1,400 students who graduated during Dave’s tenure. “When one sinks heart and soul into a school for a long time, one grows through the experience,” Dave said once. “Moses Brown became part of us and we hope our presence still lingers within the school.”
ANNE WEBB BURNHAM DIED ON JUNE 4 AFTER AN ILLNESS, the evening before her husband of 62 years, David Campbell Burnham, also died. Anne was a math teacher at the Lincoln School in Providence. She had previously taught at Miss Porter’s School, where she was chair of the math department, and at Northfield School (later Northfield Mount Hermon School). She was a graduate of both Northfield and Oberlin, where she majored in Physics. As an active member of the Community Church of Providence, Mrs. Burnham was moderator, treasurer and a member of the choir for more than 35 years. She was a member of the Providence Singers and a supporter of Music on the Hill, among many of Rhode Island’s arts organizations. She was the longstanding secretary to the American Friends of the Collège Cévenol, the Fishers Island (N.Y.) Yacht Club, and the Island People’s Project, as well as the Providence Branch of the English-Speaking Union. A caring and vital part of the Moses Brown community, Anne welcomed newcomers to the Moses Brown community by knitting a gift for each arriving MB baby.
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Why consider a legacy gift to Moses Brown School? Gifts by bequest or will are the most common ways people plan their legacies. Give back to what is important to you. Plan for your future gift while keeping control of your assets during your lifetime.
“Moses Brown has by far the greatest need, and the gift can have, by many times, the greatest impact—an impact that I can foresee, understand, and appreciate.”
It’s easy to include a provision in your will or to complete a beneficiary-designation form for an insurance plan or retirement account. These gifts are flexible and can include a specific amount, a percentage of your estate, a portion of what remains, or many other options.
Russ Carpenter ’59 shares his motivation for making an historic legacy gift to MB rather than to the other alma maters he supports.
Tax benefits may result from your gift.
Let us help you create your MB legacy. Contact us today and/or visit us at www.mosesbrown.giftplans.org! MB’s new gift planning website has arrived, and with a few mouse clicks, you can be on your way to creating your own MB legacy. Find out how Russ and others made MB part of their estate plans. Confidentially create personalized gift planning scenarios. Compare options to find one that fits your personal needs. For more information, contact Perry Buroker, Director of Leadership Giving, at (401) 831-7350, ext. 289.
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For the Honor of Truth
MB Faculty: Take a Bow! On the morning of Commencement this June, MB paused to gather and celebrate faculty with 25+ years of service to Moses Brown. Faculty were gathering on the steps of Middle House before the traditional commencement processional. See more photos of Commencement on page 43-44.
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