Ben Jackson Year 10 + NYA Fosters Young Entrepreneurs + Celebrating the Endowment + Kauffmann Program Turns Ten
The NYA Mission Statement
North Yarmouth Academy is an independent, college preparatory, coeducational school. The Academy offers a structured program that establishes clear standards and high expectations in an environment that emphasizes values of mutual respect, trust, and community. North Yarmouth Academy is dedicated to fostering integrity, character, and intellect in its students.
The North Yarmouth Academy program encourages students to develop:
Problem-solving skills based on sound analytical and creative thought;
Sophistication in writing, speaking, and artistic expression;
Appreciation for the importance of athletic activity, teamwork, and cooperation;
COMMUNICATIONS
Kristi Belesca
Director of Marketing and Communications
Michael Krakowka
Assistant Director of Marketing and Communications
Jennifer Richard P'29, P'31, P'33 Director of Development
Sarah Ross Development Database Administrator
Self-confidence and self-respect through a breadth of experiences that extend beyond the classroom;
Concern for the larger community and an appreciation for the natural environment;
Desire to continue the process of lifelong learning. PHOTOGRAPHY
NYA Staff
Brian Beard Photo
Letter from the Head of School
BEN JACKSON, P’21, P’22, P’26
Dear Friends,
This year, we welcomed over 400 students from over 40 Maine communities, three states, Germany, New Zealand, Ukraine, Korea, Vietnam, and Canada. The beginning of the year also represented my tenth year at NYA. As I reflect on those years, I continue to be grateful for the community of dedicated faculty, administrators and staff, trustees, committed families, alumni, and amazing students.
It was six years ago that we finalized the NYA Vision: 2020 Strategic Plan
Since that time, five pillars of this plan continue to guide the Academy’s initiatives: program, faculty, enrollment, campus planning, and financial strength. The Academy has completed campus improvement projects, and through the work of the trustees and development office, we have grown our endowment. Programmatically, the faculty continues to blend the best of what we have always stood for with the introduction of innovations to the curriculum. New course offerings, electives, and independent studies continue to engage and challenge our students. We are also in our
Board of Trustees 2024–2025
OFFICERS
James Cabot
President ‘98, P’30, P‘32, P‘36
Sarah Kirby
Vice President P’28, P‘30
Betsy Tod
Vice President P’20, P‘25
Jason Currier
Treasurer ‘95
Barbara Marr
Secretary P’17
Benjamin Jackson
Head of School P’21, P’22, ’P26
BOARD MEMBERS
Rick Abbondanza P’04
Frederique Daniel P’26, P’28, P’30, P’32
Bob Hilscher P’16, P’18, P’20
Nathan Isaacson ’06
Christopher Lorenz P’28, P’30
Jessica Lynch P’29, P’31
Steve Malcom P’15, P’17
Linda Manchester P’15, P’20
Drew Oestreicher ’89
Lori Poulin P’22
Christie Rana P’21, P’26, P’28
Hannah Renyi P’29, P’32
Peter Robbins P’22, P’25
Catriona Sangster P’16
Valentine Sheldon ’87, P’29, P’31
Meghan McGoldrick Stornelli ’01
Caty von Brecht Werner ’05
TRUSTEE CHANGES
Trustee Linda Manchester P’15, P’20 completed a successful four-year term as president of the NYA Board of Trustees. She is succeeded by trustee James Cabot ’98, P’30, P’32, P’36 who became the new president of the board in July 2024. Cabot has been a member of the board for nine years, serving on the executive, finance, alumni relations, development, marketing, committee on trustees (COT), risk, and strategic planning committees. He is the President and CEO of Southworth International Group. Manchester, who is the founder and creative director of The Good Life Market, will remain on the board for another year to assist in the leadership transition. NYA is deeply grateful to Linda and James for their leadership and service.
tenth year of sending students into the Alaskan backcountry through the Kauffmann Program, and our students across the grade levels are giving back through service.
NYA’s mission and the student experience will always guide our future strategic initiatives. We look forward to engaging you soon in exciting new plans in support of our students and faculty. Whether it is academics, the arts, or athletics, we continue to provide programs that allow students to pursue their passions, while challenging them to try new experiences in preparation for a lifetime of learning.
Thank you to our entire school community for your special commitment to NYA. Enjoy this issue of the Chronicle
Sincerely,
HONORARY MEMBERS
Mary Anderson
Stephen Anderson
Mark Fasold P’96, P’99, P’03
Christopher Flower P’94
Margot Milliken P’03
Chris Pierce P’01, P’05
Michael Savage P’88, P’90
Priscilla Savage P’88, P’90
Curtis Scribner P’88
PAST PRESIDENTS
Rick Abbondanza P’04
Stephan Bachelder P’22, P’04
Allen Bornheimer ’60, GP’31
Peggy A. Claffey P’88, P’91
Patrick C. Coughlan P’88, P’93, GP’25, GP’30
Edgar A. Curtis, Jr. ’62, P’93, P’95, P’97
Mark Fasold P’96, P’99, P’03
Christopher Flower P’94
William F. Julavits
Phillip F. Lewis
Linda Manchester P’15, P’20
Lincoln J. Merrill, Jr. ’75, P’04, P’06, GP’34
James G. Palmer P’82, P’86
Mark S. Plummer P’94
Bruce Poliquin P’09
Ford Reiche P’01, P’03, P’07
Alden H. Sawyer, Jr. P’77
Curtis M. Scribner P’88
Peter B. Webster
Membership Transitions on the NYA Board of Trustees:
This summer, we said farewell to the following board members who reached the end of their terms:
Nick Alberding P’18, P’21; James Garrett ’98; Linc Merrill ’75, P’04, P’06, GP’34; and Sig Schutz P’23, P’24
We are grateful for your commitment and service to NYA.
We welcomed Valentine Sheldon ’87, P’29, P’31 to the board and Rick Abbondanza P’04 back to the board after a brief hiatus. NYA is thankful for their commitment.
Tenth Year of Leadership for Head of School Ben Jackson
September
2015
Convocation – Ben Jackson, Head of School
2015-2016
NYA reaccredited with New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)
2017
Organizational realignment plan in place
Campus strategic planning document created by Simons Architects
2018
Bicentennial Learning Commons chosen as first capital project
Toddler House opens
NYA welcomes Maine Girls Academy students
Merrill Family Lower School Dedicated
Portrait of Head of School Ben Jackson
WhenBen Jackson and his family came to NYA in 2015 from Colorado, there were 275 students, a newly opened Lower School, and the need for strong leadership to steer the Academy into a time of growth. With enrollment currently over 400, an all-time high, and other improvements and innovations in the works, the future is bright.
The learning commons was selected as the school’s first capital project under Jackson’s leadership. NYA’s two-story Bicentennial Learning Commons (BLC), located in the Curtis Building’s original Cutter Gymnasium, or more recently, the student lounge, opened in the spring of 2020.
During the summer of 2018, while engaged in conversations with Maine Girls Academy (MGA), formerly Catherine McAuley School, about collaborations, Jackson was informed that MGA had to close. Jackson offered admission to its students for the 2018-2019 school year. Thus, 49 of the 94 students enrolled at MGA transferred to NYA. To honor MGA, NYA carried on a few MGA traditions including presenting yellow roses to the graduates at commencement.
In collaboration with administrators, faculty, and trustees, Jackson created the Strategic Vision: 2020, focusing on five strategic priorities:
• Distinctive programs and student experiences
• Attract, retain, and develop the very best faculty and staff
• Build enrollment
• Pursue a master facility plan
• Undergo prudent financial planning
These five priorities continue to provide the foundation for the Academy’s strategic planning and work.
2019
New turf on Lewis Field
Poulin Family Tennis Courts open
Strategic Vision 2020 published
2020-2022
COVID-19 Pandemic
COVID-19 hit the world in 2020, creating a volatile and uncertain time in education. Its impacts across the educational spectrum were significant and lasting. “At the time, we recognized NYA was more flexible and better positioned than other institutions to adapt and balance health and safety needs while continuing to educate students,” explained Jackson. NYA opened full time for students in the fall 2021, while most other schools were developing hybrid learning models. This resulted in modest increases in enrollment. Efforts led by Jackson to create and maintain a healthy environment for learning and manage operations safely during the pandemic were enormous.
Campus continues to expand and improve under Jackson’s leadership. In addition to the BLC, other completed projects include the Lewis Turf Field replacement, Poulin Family Tennis Courts, Toddler House renovation and opening, the reimagined Travis Roy Ice Arena and Fitness & Wellness Center, and phase I of the Lower School expansion. All these initiatives involve immense development efforts including a commitment to increasing the endowment, resulting in a $2 million growth over the last several years to support financial aid and programing.
The program is the bedrock of the Academy, and during the last decade, NYA has realized progress in many key areas. “Our goal for the program has always been to blend the very best of what the Academy has stood for in academics with new and innovative programs to remain current with the changes in society,” explains Jackson. “We are cultivating lifelong learners who will ultimately be successful in college and in life.” Initiatives include developing signature programs in academics, the arts, athletics, health and wellness, and leadership across all divisions. Some of these include the Kauffmann Program, seven diplomas with distinction, digital arts, robotics and STEM education investments, and more.
Throughout his tenure, Jackson maintains his accomplishments are made possible through collaboration with trustees, administrators, faculty, staff, and the greater NYA community with the mission in mind. “NYA’s mission and the student experience will continue to guide all future strategic initiatives,” said Jackson.
2021
The Campaign for NYA in support of Wellness, Athletics, the Arts, and Endowment launched
NYA receives the largest donation in school history from Dr. Jarrod Daniel and Trustee Freddie Daniel P’26, P’28, P’30, P’32
2023
Opening of the reimagined Travis Roy Arena and Fitness & Wellness Center
Completion of phase I of the Lower School expansion
THEARTS
Seize the Day!
NYA Drama took to the streets of turn-of-the century New York City in Newsies. The Disney Broadway hit tells the tale of Jack Kelly (Gabriella Filler ’27), a charismatic newsboy and leader of a band of teenaged “newsies.” When titans of publishing raise distribution prices at the newsboys’ expense, Jack rallies kids from across the city to strike against the unfair conditions and fight for what’s right! The production featured Madeline Mayo ’28 as Katherine Plummer, and Apollo Birney ’27 as Joseph Pulizer. Additional cast features include Genevieve Vaillancourt ’25 (Davey), Hadley Smith ’26 (Crutchie), John McGillicuddy ’30 (Les), Lila Fournier ’28 (Medda Larkin). Additional roles including newsboys, newspaper staff, dancing girls, nuns, goons, police, and more played by Eva Cusano ’26, Sam Grady ’26, Alex Hilmer ’26, Chloe Shervanick ’26, Eliza Smith ’28, Quinn Barschdorf ’29, Sofia Beghelli ’30, Maddie Brown ’29, Natalie Bunker ’28, Ezra Corcoran ’29, Mia Dumont ’30, Paisley Dutta ’29, Clementine Feely ’28, Denali Garson ’29, Grace Goodall ’29, Katrina Lesniak ’30, Nula MacCarthy ’30, Emily Millar ’30, Fia Scheffler ’30, Jack Scheffler ’29, Avery Speirs ’29, and Gracelyn Webster ’30.
Students working on tech crew (and as extra newsies) include Zoe Collins ’25 (stage manager), Skyler Dunphy ’27, Colden Daniel ’28, Barrett Keup ’29, Lauren Metivier ’30, Cora Nanovic ’30, Phoebe Reilly ’28, Oliver Walker ’30, and Ellis Taylor ’27.
Production Team: Liz Rollins (director), Linda Vaillancourt (music director), Andrew Cook (set design), Anthony Desantis (technical direction), Vanessa Beyland (choreographer), Sara Jaffe (lighting & acting coach), Nora Krainis (sound), and Kevin Rollins (sound/stage).
Dinosaurs Before Dark KIDS
NYA Lower School Drama took us back to the late Cretaceous Period with the adaptation of one of Mary Pope Osbourne’s books from her Magic Treehouse series. Siblings Jack and Annie find a mysterious treehouse full of books, and they discover what they read about in the pages will transport them through time.
Johnny Cabot ’32 and Cece Lavoie ’32 played Jack and Annie. Their first through fourth grade classmates stomped and roared as ensemble cast of dinosaurs.
Paddle to the Sea
The fifth-grade drama production of Paddle to the Sea was adapted from a 1941 children’s book by the American author and illustrator Holling C. Holling. In Lake Nipigon, Ontario, a first nation boy whittled a wooden model of a person in a canoe. On the bottom, he carved the words “Please put me back in the water. I am Paddle-to-the-Sea.” The story follows the extraordinary adventures of this wooden toy through all the Great Lakes, where he meets many interesting people who help him on his way to the Atlantic Ocean. Cast in alphabetical order: Max Amendo, Piper Brewer, Tilly Ewing, James Feeley, Theo Ferrari, Foster Hammen, Anders Jones, Noah Kanyambo, Keira Livesay, Eden Mote, Grady Richard, Alex Rowe, and Georgie Sheldon.
Come for the Laughter, Stay for the Custard
This year, NYA Drama produced a spring performance, The Actor’s Nightmare. An accountant named George (or Stanley?) finds himself unexpectedly onstage, playing the leading role in four different and simultaneous plays. He’s never been to a rehearsal and doesn’t know his lines but tries desperately to fill the spotlight and be entertaining. Yes, there really was custard! The production featured Genevieve Vaillancourt ’25 as George (Stanley?), Sam Grady ’26 as the Stage Manager, Apollo Birney ’27 as Sarah, Eva Cusano ’26 as Ellen, Alex Hilmer ’26 as Henry, Skyler Dunphy ’27 as the Executioner’s Assistant, and Zoe Collins ’25 as The Voice. Directed by Drama Director Liz Rollins and Upper School mathematics teacher Sara Jaffe.
Big Gigs for Steel Industry
A busy May for NYA’s steel band, “Steel Industry,” started in Augusta with the largest steel pan jam session around at the 31st New England Pan Festival.
The next stop was a performance with the Portland Symphony Orchestra in front of a crowd of over 2,000. Six NYA students, along with Upper School instrumental music teacher Ian Ramsey, joined PSO for “Carnival of Animals: Remix.” The music took the audience on a trek around the world, introducing them to animals and music from all seven continents. Band members Ellie Bouman ’25, Apollo Birney ’27, Cass MacCarthy ’24, Leif MacCarthy ’25, Chris Norieka ’25, and Genevieve Vaillancourt ’25 played their pans for the “Trinidad and Tobago” section of the performance. “It’s great to give NYA students a chance to perform at the highest professional level with the Portland Symphony Orchestra, especially on steel pans,” said Ramsey. “The kids couldn’t be more excited.”
The troop also met up with NYA alumna and PSO Director of Learning & Community Impact, McKenzie Blanchard ‘14.
NYA Chorus Joins Idol Stars in Bangor
American Idol star Julia Gagnon ’20 invited the NYA chorus to join her and a cast of American Idol contestants from the past season for an onstage performance at the Cross Insurance Arena in Bangor. “Julia Gagnon: Little Things,” featured Gagnon, Nate Haven, and former Idols: Ajii, Jennifer Jeffries, Roman Collins, Quintavious Johnson, KBLOCKS, Kennedy Reid, and Imposter Syndrome. The NYA chorus, combined with the neighboring Greely High School Chorus, provided backup vocals on a couple of Julia’s favorite covers, “We Are the World,” and “From Now On,” from The Greatest Showman
All State Musicians
A quintet of talented NYA musicians was selected to the Maine All-State Music Festival. Genevieve Vaillancourt ’25 for viola and Cass MacCarthy ’24 on string bass joined the orchestra. Apollo Birney ’27 and Hadley Smith ’26 sang in the alto section of the mixed chorus with Paxton Fogg ’25 in bass.
From left to right: Ellie Bouman ’25, Apollo Birney ’27, Genevieve Vaillancourt ’25, Chris Norieka ’25, Ian Ramsey, Leif MacCarthy ’25, McKenzie Blanchard and Cass MacCarthy ’24
From left to right: Cass MacCarthy ’24, Genevieve Vaillancourt ’25, Paxton Fogg ’25, Apollo Birney ’27, and Hadley Smith ’26
Academics
Double Platinum
App Challenge
For the second year in a row, College Board named NYA to the 2024 Advanced Placement® Program (AP®) School Honor Roll, earning a platinum distinction.
The AP School Honor Roll recognizes schools whose AP programs are delivering results for students while broadening access. Schools can earn this recognition annually based on criteria that reflect a commitment to increasing college-going culture, providing opportunities for students to earn college credit, and maximizing college readiness.
97% of NYA seniors took at least one AP exam during high school, 63% of seniors scored a 3 or higher on at least one AP exam, and 29% of seniors took five or more AP exams. The Academy offers 18 Advanced Placement courses in various topics through the arts, humanities, languages, and sciences.
Tyler Technology
Upper School science and mathematics teacher, Jessica Violette P‘24, P‘26, was a guest speaker at a Tyler Technologies event to celebrate the Maine App Challenge partnership with the University of Maine’s Pathways to Careers initiative. In attendance at the event were Governor Janet Mills; UMaine President, Joan Ferrini-Mundu; and Tyler Technologies President, ERP & Civic Division, Chris Webster. Violette discussed how these programs aim to engage Maine high school students in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) and provide a path to pursue higher education for exciting STEM careers in Maine. Students who complete the Foundations of Innovation online course earn college credit at UMaine.
Trip to Oaxaca in Southern Mexico
The Kauffmann Program expanded its expeditions into Mexico last March Break. Director of the Kauffmann Program Ian Ramsey and NYA Middle School Spanish Teacher Jessica Smith took ten NYA Upper School students to Oaxaca, Mexico for twelve days. They spent five days hiking the Pueblo Mancomunados (Commonwealth of Villages) where they trekked amongst indigenous villages in the Sierra Norte Mountain region with a local guide. Resident ecological scientists and personal friends of Ian’s connected with the group to share knowledge of the local culture and ecosystems. The trip commenced around the city of Oaxaca, where the students learned about culture, took cooking and printmaking classes, and visited pre-Colombian ruins and various villages.
“It was so exciting to share this special region with a group of NYA students,” said Ramsey. “With the biggest indigenous population and the most biodiversity of any province in Mexico, Oaxaca is a unique region that is rich in culture, ecology, and history. While hiking and meeting people in villages, our students learned through direct, transformational experience,” he said.
North Yarmouth Academy
From left to right: Governor Janet Mills; Jessica Violette P’24, P’26; and UMaine President, Joan Ferrini-Mundo
These Are the Droids You Are Looking For
This year, the NYA’s robotics program has extended into the Middle School as an X-block and a club. The focus is on robotics basics with hands-on learning using VEX V5 kits. The kits involve parts and operations driven by coding. Once mastered, students will give their robot a specific task to perform.
Middle School students will also have access to SPHERO robots which are spherical and operated by a block coding system within an app. Students will be given small tasks like having the SPHERO run through a track by coding all the movements. The robots can also be controlled manually through the app. This will provide the opportunity to engage the Lower School students with demonstrations. The connections between divisions aim to excite future Upper School robotics team members.
In the Upper School, the robotics team competes locally to qualify for the state level championships. Each year, a new competition game is released, and teams spend the season designing, coding, and constructing a robot to do certain tasks, both autonomously and driver controlled. Competitions involve various strategies and game-time decision making. Throughout the year, the emphasis is on the engineering design process, so coding and robots continuously improve throughout the season.
Inspired by the strong interest in robotics and STEM among NYA students and faculty, Case and Gail Lynch GP ’29 & GP ’31 made a generous gift to enhance and expand robotics offerings and create a new space dedicated to robotics to allow students to meet, build, tinker, collaborate, and test their robots.
Student Historians Honored
Three NYA students were big winners of the 2024 Wellcome Prizes from the Yarmouth History Center. Honors and cash awards are granted every year to student historians statewide for projects on any historical topic related to Cumberland County.
Ethan Sweeney ‘26 and Sadie Swenson ’25 earned prizes in the writing division. Sweeney’s paper entitled The Portland Observatory: Portland’s Greatest Historical Landmark took first prize, and Swenson’s paper, Brunswick and the Civil War took third prize. Senior Chris Noreika’s documentary film on the Yarmouth Clam Festival took second prize. Last year, his film on the Great Portland Fire took first prize. Entries are judged on the quality of research and presentation, and winners are invited to share their findings with the public as part of the history center’s fall lecture series.
The Gift of Failure
NYA welcomed New York Times bestselling author Jessica Lahey to campus in October. Lahey is the author of The Gift of Failure: How the Best Parents Learn to Let Go So Their Children Can Succeed and The Addiction Inoculation: Raising Healthy Kids in a Culture of Dependence She shared her message of teaching resilience through the value of failure.
Lahey, a mother and former teacher, encouraged the audience to raise successful adults by allowing them to fail through taking risks and learning from them. She spoke about how children may miss valuable learning opportunities if parents protect them from failing.
Lahey shared her own parenting misstep when she did not teach her child to tie their shoes, opting for the quick and easy Velcro. Although she avoided frustration, it did not benefit her child.
Her key message: Support your child for who they are and not what you dreamed them to be. If people are seen, heard, known, and loved for who they are, then they will feel empowered to be the best possible people out in the world.
+Thanks to NYA’s counselor, Cindy Hould, for bringing Lahey to NYA.
Chris Noreika ’25 receives his award from Maine Historical Society Executive Director, Katherine Worthing
Business as Usual: Economics, Start-Ups,
and Real-World Experience
How do you go from, “I have an idea,” to, “I have a business?” Once you have the business, how do you stay afloat with the ebb and flow of the local economy? NYA History Department Chair and economics teacher Peter Sillin connects his economics and start-up club students with local business owners to answer just those questions. “There is no one way or one type of person who becomes an entrepreneur. I want to expose the students to ways they themselves can imagine shaping their future.”
Sillin created and advises the NYA Start-Up Club, born from the overwhelming response by the students to Maine Venture Fund’s “Startup Challenge,” a business plan competition for students designed to encourage the next generation of entrepreneurs in Maine. NYA had the most submissions from any school and a few winners. A big entrepreneurial spirit exists on campus, and Sillin took the opportunity to harness it. “This is a great opportunity for NYA to develop a unique program.”
It all began with the NYA Start-Up Club, consisting of students who have business ideas or are curious about how to start a business. But how? Simply answered, “Ask!” Sillin organized a speaker series of NYA alumni and parents with their own businesses. The speakers shared their experiences from a spark of an idea, to funding, hard work, highs and lows, and a little luck.
“I have always had an inclination towards creating new things and people who are creating new things,” said club member Leif MacCarthy ’25. “Getting to hear from local business owners who did what seems so hard to me was really exciting.” MacCarthy is currently designing an app to help athletes and coaches crunch running data.
Salin Bachor ’25 participated in the Start-up Challenge with an idea for a boat taxi in her hometown of Harpswell. She was encouraged by Sillin to enter and join the club since she was already a business owner. Bachor started Bachor Hardscapes her freshman year, building and maintaining patios, garden features, yards, and landscaping. “It is also important to learn where money is coming from and how people are making it,” said Bachor.
Sillin sees serious potential for an innovative entrepreneurial program where students can connect what they learn in class to how they can use it in the real world. “My entrepreneurship program solidifies those connections in a way that allows them to take initiative, be creative, and collaborate.”
MacCarthy couldn’t agree more. “Having a set of peers who are interested in business that you can bounce ideas off, as well as business owners of all types, has been both a great inspiration and a reality check. They have really shown me that this is possible.”
“Kids need to understand there is no limit to the number of companies out there,” said Bachor with her eye on the future. “Even though a company was already thought of or established, it doesn’t mean one can’t do it again and make it better.”
Thank you to our NYA Start-Up Club spring 2024 speakers: Linc Merrill ’75, P’04, P’06, GP ’34 of Patriot Insurance; Walt Manchester P’15, P’20, founder of the Good Life Market; Dave Holman P’34, P’36 of Holman Homes & Katahdin Property Management; Tim & Hannah Renyi P’29, P’32 from Great Clips; and Rob Tod P’20, P’25, founder of Allagash Brewing Company.
Salin Bachor’s '25 landscaping business
Start-Up Speaker Walt Manchester P'15, P'20, founder of the Good Life Market
Start-Up Club at Startup Maine 2024
As NYA develops initiatives and curriculum around entrepreneurship (like Peter Sillin’s Start-Up Club), it seemed logical to reach out to our alumni entrepreneurs to learn about their business journeys. We asked them all the same questions, including a request for advice for our students who may want to start (or have already started) a business. We received an excellent response, and there was too much to print in the Chronicle. Here is a taste of what they sent us. Please use this QR code to see their responses in full.
If you’re an NYA alum and an entrepreneur, we’d love to hear from you! Please reach out to alumni@nya.org.
Liz Palmer Pattison ’87
SimplySized Home, Yarmouth, ME
EDUCATION: Whittenberg University, elementary education; Lelsey College, master’s degree in creative arts
BUSINESS: SimplySized Home is a home downsizing and moving management business. We help people who are in transition from one home to another. This transition usually involves moving to a smaller residence. Our services include hiring the appropriate movers, packing for the move, resettling and unpacking all your belongings in your new home. In addition, we work with auction houses, consignment shops, and numerous local charities to donate the things that are no longer needed. In many cases, children are not available to help or live out of state with busy lives. SimplySized Home helps when family isn’t available.
ADVICE: Do something you enjoy. You need to wholeheartedly believe in the product or service you are providing. Surround yourself with people who support you and believe in your goals. Survey your potential customer base and be open to constructive criticism.
Tim McMahon ’93
Timber Ceramics, Portland, ME
EDUCATION: Maine College of Art, BFA in sculpture
BUSINESS: I am a full-time potter working out of a studio I built in my backyard in Portland.
HIS ADVICE: If I was to pass along advice to a young graduate looking to start a business, I would only advise them to find something they are passionate about and the rest will eventually take care of itself.
Roy Morejon ’99
AheadA, Charlotte, NC
EDUCATION: Methodist College, PGA program and secured his PGA card. Ultimately transferred to University of North Carolina at Charlotte to study mass media communications and political science.
BUSINESS: I run AheadA, where we help businesses unlock the power of AI to grow their bottom line. AheadA is the culmination of everything I’ve learned, focused on where the future of business is headed. We work with companies generating $5 million to $500 million in revenue, helping them implement AI in practical, results-driven ways. From strategy to execution, our mission is to ensure AI doesn’t just become another tool, but a game-changer for our clients.
ADVICE: Don’t wait for perfection—start now. Too many great ideas never leave the drawing board because people overthink or wait for the “right” moment. The truth is that taking action is the only way to learn what works. Remember,
action creates information. Every step you take, no matter how small, will teach you something valuable and move you closer to success. Also, embrace discipline.
Running a business is like being a student—you need focus, time management, and the ability to finish what you start. Build those habits now, and they’ll serve you for life. Lastly, don’t be afraid to fail. Failing isn’t the end—it’s a step forward. Every failure gives you data, lessons, and the experience to make your next move smarter. Business is a journey of trial and error, so take risks, keep learning, and stay resilient. If you have a dream, take the first step today. Even the smallest action can spark something incredible.
Britt Hosmer Longoria ’03
Rock Environmental Philanthropic Consulting
EDUCATION: Attended the University of Denver and transferred to Tshwane University of Technology in Pretoria, South Africa to complete her undergraduate degree; master’s in philanthropic leadership at the University of Denver. She is a few months away from completing her dissertation for a PhD in strategic communication from Liberty University.
BUSINESS: Rock Environmental, LLC specializes in designing high-impact philanthropic action plans and crafting organizational development strategies for nonprofits and individuals dedicated to wilderness and wildlife conservation. We aim to foster leadership, sustainability, board development, and innovative fundraising solutions that support the long-term growth and success of wildlife and wilderness efforts.
ADVICE: Remain curious and passionately committed to your interests. Don’t shy away from taking calculated risks, and ensure you learn from every experience, whether it ends in triumph or tribulation. Building a solid network of mentors and supporters who believe in your
vision can make a significant difference. Most importantly, stay adaptable and open to new ideas as the entrepreneurial landscape evolves. Pursuing a path that aligns with your unique values, because you won’t be successful unless you are passionate. Don’t quit.
Ashley Dunham Smalley ’01
Ashley Smalley Nutrition, Freeport, ME
EDUCATION: Bates College, BS in psychology (and ran cross country); Simmons University, BS in nutrition and dietetics; and Tufts University for MS in nutrition and became a registered dietitian. Later completed a two-year certification in integrative and functional nutrition and a three-month gastrointestinal health intensive program.
BUSINESS: Ashley Smalley Nutrition is a place for people seeking a supportive and collaborative approach to healing their digestive issues. As a nutritionist trained in integrative and functional nutrition, my goal is to help provide effective solutions to your health challenges in a way that empowers you and gives you the confidence to do what works for your body.
ADVICE: Do your research and talk with people who have come before you. Find something that you’re passionate about or have a keen interest in. Starting a business is a lot of work, but if you have the drive and curiosity about a specific problem that you are trying to solve for your customers/clients, then you have what it takes! You’ve got this!
Meghan McGoldrick Stornelli ’01
Dynamic Physical Therapy and Sports Conditioning, Topsham, ME
EDUCATION: Simmons College, BS in biology; Boston University for my doctorate in physical therapy
BUSINESS: I own and operate a physical therapy practice that also offers personal training and sports conditioning services.
in that industry for several years first and study the ins/outs. Make as many connections as possible because you never know when you will need someone from a different industry to help you.
Thatcher Shultz ’02
Hospitality developer in New York, NY and South Florida
EDUCATION: Studied economics at Dickinson College
BUSINESSES: We’re currently expanding our elevated sports bar concept gotoroccos.com to West Palm, FL and Boston and looking for the right space to open the same concept in Miami. Opening a yoga studio in March called “Wild Thing” in Miami. I have a small real estate portfolio in NYC and Bath, ME. I just teamed up with two friends to open another automotive business based out of CT and Palm Beach called Autogalerie.
ADVICE: Recognize a gap in a market that you’re passionate about and take action. You have to start somewhere and take a chance on yourself. As long as you enjoy what you’re doing, you will be successful. Don’t chase after money, chase after things you’re passionate about, and the money will follow.
Pete Fitz ’05
Buoy Media, Portland, ME
ADVICE: Be curious. Learn how various businesses run and ways they have changed over the years to optimize performance. If there is a specific industry you are interested in, work
EDUCATION: St. Lawrence ’09, English major/film minor; Lewis and Clark, Portland, OR, Master's in Teaching, Language Arts
BUSINESS: Buoy Media specializes in filmmaking through cinema lenses, a fancy drone, natural and professional lighting, and a bunch of other gadgets like sliders and gimbals. Facilitating on camera interviews is maybe my favorite part of the work. We edit footage in house, but also hire out to other seasoned editors and shooters to help tell small businesses stories; highlight weddings; capture the spirit of an event; or market products and services.
ADVICE: It might be a cliché, but go fail. Not on purpose, obviously, but make sure you take big swings—this is where real learning happens. Go find your tribe and some mentors and never stop the quest for knowledge. Invent yourself and then reinvent yourself! I also like the line from a Tom Waits song: Luck is when opportunity meets preparation.
Practice gratitude too. I’ve been a teacher and am now a parent (both are very hard jobs!), so take a moment to look around at how many people are putting effort into your life and education every day and find a way to thank them.
Jason Kroot ’05
Blue Lobster, Portland, ME; Starting Line Physical Therapy and Fitness studio Portland, ME; and more
EDUCATION: Bentley University, business management degree
BUSINESS: Currently I operate a few different businesses in two very different areas, the wine industry and in the fitness/health industry. I’m a partner at Blue Lobster, an urban winery based in Portland and also operate a regional sales and marketing company for wineries in California, France, and Italy. I’ve also worked with wineries in California and Oregon to produce wines under brands that I own and manage. My wife and I own Starting Line Physical Therapy and Fitness Studio which has a cash-based physical therapy component as well as a boutique gym that offers strength and running classes to athletes.
ADVICE: Owning a business, especially a startup(s), truly can be best compared to riding a rollercoaster. Any business owner will tell you there will be high highs and low lows, so be armed with the knowledge that taking a path of business ownership will require more work, and success will always take longer than your business plan says. If you are committed to building something and investing in your future, those extra hours and sweat will all be worth it!
Brian Chin ’06 p3, Portland, ME
EDUCATION: Brown University ’10, modern culture and media; also studied film, music, and Italian, spent his junior year in Bologna, Italy.
BUSINESS: p3 is a creative agency specializing in video and animation. I co-founded the company back in 2011, and we have now grown to a team of 10 working with clients on a regional and national level. We combine strategy, creative services, and production all under one roof to produce commercials, docu-style stories, and animations. Some recent projects include working with clients like PrimaLoft, SunButter, Stop & Shop, and Popsicle.
ADVICE: You don’t need to go to business school to start a company (I didn’t). You’ll learn a lot by just doing it. Yes, you’ll make mistakes along the way (I did), but if you are willing to learn, care about the quality of your product or service, and (most importantly) are nice to people, success will come. It can feel lonely trying to do things by yourself but know that there is a network of entrepreneurs who have gone through what you’re going through who can offer advice. Also, don’t forget to proofread your writing!
Cayla Marvil ’09
Lamplighter Brewing Company, Cambridge, MA
EDUCATION: Middlebury ’14, math major; culinary school, Stanford Graduate School of Business ’24
BUSINESS: Lamplighter Brewing Company is now one of the largest breweries in MA. We have two taproom locations in Cambridge, we distribute across New England, we’ve brewed over 300 unique beers, and we employ over 80 wonderful staff members.
ADVICE: Define your mission and values—both personally and professionally—and aim for them to align. Ask yourself: "Why are you doing what you do?" "What standards will you hold yourself to?" There will be countless moments when decisions aren’t black and white, and I believe having a clear sense of what you stand for and where you’re unwilling to compromise can help you navigate and validate even the super tough choices.
Jack Bontatibus ’20
Jack Bontatibus, Irvine, California
EDUCATION: I took steps toward higher education at Southern New Hampshire University, focusing on information technology, and at the University of Southern Maine, studying accounting. While college gave me foundational knowledge, my real education came from diving headfirst into the entrepreneurial world and learning from experience.
BUSINESS: My business is a blend of creative media production, content strategy, and entrepreneurial problem-solving. I’ve worked with some incredible brands like Meta, Samsung, and Supercell, helping them expand their reach through storytelling and innovative content. Alongside this, I’ve collaborated with
startups like Revero, driving their growth and visibility through strategic media efforts. My ventures have always focused on merging creativity with impact—whether through YouTube, web design, or building systems for local businesses.
ADVICE: Start now. Don’t wait for the perfect moment or feel like you need to have all the answers—just take the first step. One of my biggest inspirations, entrepreneur Naval Ravikant, advises focusing on what you love because that’s where you have an unfair advantage. I believe every person has something unique to offer, and starting a business is one of the best ways to create your ultimate impact on the world.
Sako Joukakelian ’24
Kelian Carz, Montreal, Canada
EDUCATION: Current freshman at Concordia University in Montreal, majoring in business technology management
BUSINESS: Kelian Carz is a rental car company. I currently have 11 vehicles and am constantly expanding my fleet. My business provides reliable and affordable rental cars to individuals for short- or long-term use.
ADVICE: Starting a business is a unique journey for each individual, and there’s no one-sizefits-all formula for success. Some entrepreneurs might find success with their very first idea, while others may need to go through multiple attempts before they achieve their goals. Regardless of the path you take, the most important thing is to never give up and to always believe in yourself and your vision. Challenges and setbacks are inevitable, but they are also opportunities to learn and grow. Stay persistent, stay adaptable, and don’t be afraid to seek advice or guidance from people who are already successful. Most importantly, remember that success doesn’t happen overnight. It’s the result of consistent effort, resilience, and belief in your potential to make your vision a reality.
Athletics
Middle School: Dig.Set.Hit.
Volleyball is quickly becoming one of the fastest-growing sports in the state, and this fall marked the start of NYA’s newest athletic program—Middle School Girls Volleyball! The team included participants from grades six through eighth and was coached by Lower School Physical Education teacher Therese Liptak and assistant coach Lisa Taylor ’92, P’25, P’30. The team learned technical skills, the rules of the game, and competed in match play against local opponents. “The athletes on this team had incredible GRIT!” boasted Liptak. “They believed in themselves and each other. Winning attitude from start to finish.” We are eager to watch this program develop and spill into our Upper School Volleyball program.
Track & Field Standouts
Sarah Moore ’24 and Graca Bila ’24 each competed in three events at the 2024 New England Regional Track and Field Meet. Graca finished 18th in the 200m, eighth in 300m hurdles, and seventh in triple jump.
This was Sarah’s second consecutive trip to New England’s. In her junior year, she had two first place finishes and one second place, with four NYA school records. Her first place finish in the long jump made her the second best girls long jumper in state history. Her first place finish in the triple jump made her the eighth best triple jumper of all-time for Maine.
This past season, she placed fourth in the high jump, 14th in the triple jump, and 10th in the long jump. Her fourth place finish in the high jump earned her a trip to the National Meet where she placed ninth! Sarah received a scholarship to the University of New Hampshire to join their Division I track program and is majoring in Health Science. See “Graduates to Watch” for additional info on Graca.
Coach of the Year
The National Federation of High School Sports (NFHS) announced that our very own Chris Mazzurco P’39 was selected as the 2023-24 NFHS Girls Outdoor Track and Field Coach of the Year for Maine. The spring team had a banner year including championships in the Maine Association of Independent Athletic Directors (MAISAD), Western Maine Conference (WMC), and a Class C State Runners-Up finish. Team members went on to compete at the New England and National level in a variety of events. The 2023-24 season marked Coach Mazzurco’s 28th year with the program. Coach Mazzurco, NYA’s Director of Information Technology, is also an Edgar F. White ’38 Athletic Hall of Fame member and serves as our girls cross-country and the indoor track and field head coach. Congratulations to Coach Mazzurco!
Girls Outdoor Track & Field Success
Spring 2024
The team finished the season as the 2023-2024 MAISAD Champion, the Western Maine Conference Division II Champion, and the MPA Class C State runner up.
Back-to-Back Champs
Spring 2024
Panther Softball defended their Class D State title with a 2-1 comeback win over a formidable Penobscot Valley team.
Girls Soccer
Fall 2023 and Fall 2024
After a successful season, the NYA Girls Soccer Team ended their fall 2023 run as Class C South runners up. They came back in 2024 as the #3 seed in Class C South to defeat the #1 seed in the north, Fort Kent, to become the MPA Class C State Champions. They’ve held this title for five of the past six seasons. Congratulations to Coach Ricky Doyon—the state championship game marked his 100th NYA win. Coach Doyon was also recognized as the United Soccer Coaches (USC) Region I Private School Coach of the Year at the National Convention in Chicago in January 2025. (Ricky is also NYA’s Assistant Director of Facilities: Safety, Compliance & Transportation and the NYA Softball Coach!)
Ice Hockey
Boys coach, Mike Warde, and girls coach, Matt Poulin, have a lot to be proud of! Last winter, both teams won the Travis Roy Maine Prep Cup, and they both had very successful seasons. The boys ranked #5 in the Holt Conference and advanced to the conference championship game for the third time in five years. The girls were ranked #1 in the newly formed Vaillancourt Conference and capped their season by winning the Vaillancourt Conference Championship. It was the girls program’s best season (24-7-1) on record!
Coach Krainis Takes Her Final Bow Fall 2024
After 19 years as NYA’s varsity volleyball coach, Nora Krainis retired after the 2023 season, handing over the reins to her assistant coach, Dave Gagne. She was recognized before this year’s Come Home to NYA volleyball game and given a #23 NYA jersey to commemorate her last year of coaching. We are grateful for EVERYTHING Nora did to introduce the sport to NYA and to encourage girls to play—and love— volleyball at NYA!
Tradition of Sportsmanship
2024-2025 was Coach Dave Gagne’s inaugural season as NYA Varsity Head Volleyball Coach. He was assisted by NYA alumna, Jordan Ackerman ’18, who also teaches in the Lower School.
The varsity volleyball team finish the 2024 fall season short of the playoffs, but the team was honored with the Class C Sportsmanship Award. This is the program’s sixth award since 2012. WOW.
GRACA BILA ‘24 GRADUATE TO WATCH
Each year, the Portland Press Herald selects 10 outstanding graduates from across the state for their Graduates to Watch feature. Nominated by her coach, Chris Mazzurco, NYA’s Graca Bila was selected as one of the honorees for 2024. Graca stands out for her community presence and leadership on the field, court, track, in church, and at her part-time jobs. Graca, the youngest of four children, was born in Angola and speaks Portuguese at home. She came to NYA in the ninth grade.
Her decorated athletic and community successes are complimented by her academic achievements. Graca attends Bates College, where she is studying psychology and competing on the Bates Women’s Track and Field Team. We cannot wait to see what the future holds for her!
New Leadership in Lower School
Marissa Markonish P’19, P’23 moved back as Head of Middle School full time after splitting duties between the Lower and Middle Schools for more than a decade. Markonish was instrumental in the creation of the Lower School in 2013. With so much growth in both divisions, it was time the divisions had their own dedicated heads. We sincerely thank Markonish for all she has done and continues to accomplish here on campus.
NYA welcomed Amy Bayha as the new Head of Lower School and Early Education. She explains, “My first four months at NYA’s Lower School have been a time for learning with our students, engaging with new colleagues and families, and seeking feedback about ways to grow our instructional practices.”
Bayha looks forward to an exciting time of growth and expansion in the Lower School. “Whether regarding our fantastic new playground spaces, ideas about the Merrill expansion, or anything Lower School-related, I welcome input and ideas. I am grateful to work with the NYA children each day!”
NYA welcomes new faces to the staff this year:
Alan Clarance
Chief Financial Officer
Alan comes to Main Street from the Fay School in Southborough, MA, where he served for eight successful and transformational years. During his tenure at Fay, he was a trustee for the Association of Independent School Admission Professionals (AISAP). He also served as treasurer for the Massachusetts Association of Nonprofit Schools and Colleges Board and was a member of the Massachusetts Independent School Collaborative. Alan has a BA from the University of Essex, England.
ADMISSION TEAM
Johanna “Johie” Seltzer
Director of Admission
Johie brings 20 years of admission experience in higher education from Bates College, where she held many admissions positions. Most recently, she served as Bates’ Senior Associate Dean of Admission and Director of Selection. Johie earned her BA from Bates College and an MS in Organizational Leadership from Southern New Hampshire University.
Allison Gallagher
Associate Director of Admission
Ali’s focus is on Middle School admissions. She most recently worked at Pine Grove School in Falmouth as Assistant Director: Enrollment and Operations. Prior to that, Ali served as an Admission Officer at Kingsley Montessori School in Boston’s Back Bay. She began her career teaching early childhood education at the Pine Grove School. She earned her BS from the University of Maine at Farmington.
NYA Head of Lower School and Early Childhood
As both the Lower and Middle School are growing, Marissa Markonish now dedicates her time as Head of Middle School, while Amy heads up the Lower School. Amy brings over 30 years of experience in education as a teacher in grades K through six, a summer program administrator, assistant principal, and principal. Most recently, she served as the principal at Wiscasset Elementary School. Amy earned her BS in Education at Skidmore and her MS in Education at UNH.
Amy Bayha
Marissa Markonish P’19, P’23 meets with Middle School students
Kauffmann turns 10 Program
The seed for NYA’s Kauffmann Program began a decade ago in Ian Ramsey’s Literature of Glacier Bay class and sprouted in the wilds of Alaska. The culmination of the class took Ramsey and six students deep into Glacier Bay National Park for a week of camping, kayaking, and journaling, immersed in untouched wilderness. The adventurers had no idea the experience would last a lifetime and that ten years later, Ramsey would still be introducing students to the wilds of Alaska and the impacts of climate change.
Ramsey himself didn’t anticipate the profound effects the class and the trip would have. NYA’s Kauffmann Program (named after NYA trustee, friend, and neighbor, John Kauffmann) has returned to Glacier Bay almost every year. There has been a speaker, book, and film series, and special programs including the NYA Kayak Academy, NYA Writing Seminar, and the annual Kauffmann Environmental Writing Prize. The NYA Outing Club was formed for more regional and frequent excursions. NYA now has a fleet of sea kayaks for the exploration and study of Casco Bay.
The class and trip further piqued my interest in pursuing work that protects the natural environment.
to the test in the Leadership Academy while trekking across the White Mountains’ Presidential Range. Today, the Kauffmann Program stands as an exemplary study in adventure-based learning. With a focus on environmental thinking, writing, conservation, and wilderness travel, the program is intended to create opportunities for students to acknowledge the importance of wilderness conservation and environmental issues.
Reed Silvers ’19, who went to Glacier Bay as a senior, explains, “The trip to Alaska with Mr. Ramsey’s environmental literature class was astonishing. I had never seen such pristine landscapes while paddling Glacier Bay. The people and culture of Gustavus [Alaska] left me inspired.”
Lower School students are introduced to the Kauffmann Program offerings on the school's climbing wall. Middle School students can put their merits
“The class and trip further piqued my interest in pursuing work that protects the natural environment. Five years later, I have now begun a career as a regional planner in Damariscotta working to improve environmental resilience throughout Midcoast Maine. Mostly what my organization does is help small Maine towns build their comprehensive plans and apply for State and Federal grants on their behalf. Our work aims to ensure that coastal Maine is equipped to deal with the consequences of a changing climate.”
SOIRÉE SUCCESS
Over 300 alumni, parents, grandparents, faculty, staff, and friends attended the 40th Annual Soirée on May 31. The event raised funds to support the Academy and honor the dedicated NYA faculty. Sponsors, bidders, attendees, and paddle raisers contributed $178,072 to help strengthen the NYA faculty with professional growth and development, to add resources to stimulate students’ intellectual inquiry, and to broaden the opportunities of study offered to NYA students. Thank you to all who supported this event. Please plan to join us on Friday, May 30, 2025, for the 41st Annual Soirée.
22nd Annual Steve Morris Golf Tournament
The Steve Morris Golf Tournament brought together alumni, faculty, and parents for a day of golf, celebration, and supporting the Steve Morris Scholarship Program. Steve “Mo” Morris spent his entire 29-year career at NYA and is fondly remembered by the numerous students he taught, coached, and mentored. His legacy endures through the Steve Morris Endowed Scholarship, which has assisted more than 40 students since its inception in 2010. This year’s tournament raised $13,490. Thank you to the sponsors, golfers, and benefactors!
Head of School Dinner
Each fall, NYA’s Head of School hosts leadership benefactors and volunteers for an evening of appreciation. This year’s event was held at The Barn on Walnut Hill. Former Board Presidents Linda Manchester P’15, P’20 and Allen Bornheimer ‘60, GP’31 were honored for their exemplary service and support. Bornheimer received the Fasold Award and was recognized for his leadership of the Board and Finance Committee, working to create pathways for alumni to reconnect with NYA, and his unwavering commitment to preserving NYA values. Manchester received the Cupola Award and was recognized for successfully leading the Board and Academy through the pandemic, strategic planning, and the arena fitness & wellness center project with a collaborative approach that helped NYA emerge from the pandemic in a position of strength.
Grandparents’ Days
This fall, NYA hosted Upper and Middle School Grandparents’ Day. Over 270 grandparents, special friends, and parents joined our students for musical performances, classroom visits, an art walk, and time together on the NYA campus. In the spring of 2024, Lower School Grandparents’ Day and Celebration of the Arts brought 385 guests to campus to visit students, teachers, classrooms, art studios, and enjoy performances.
Mark your calendars: Lower School Grandparents’ Day will be held on Friday, May 9, 2025 and Upper & Middle School Grandparents’ Day will be held on Friday, October 17, 2025.
During the Homecoming and Reunion weekend, alumni returned to campus for reunions to reconnect with classmates and faculty. The community cheered the Panthers on to victory, and students and their families enjoyed yard games, bounce houses, face painting, and more. Kate Merrill ’09 was inducted into the Edgar F. White ‘38 Athletic Hall of Fame for her success as a member of the golf team.
Congratulations Kate! It was a perfect fall weekend on campus. We hope you will join us next year and Come Home to NYA, September 26-27, 2025.
Giving Levels
Message from the Director of Development
Introducing the NYA GOLD Society for NYA Alumni from the Past 10 Years!
NYA GOLD
Membership in the GOLD Society comes with many benefits:
• Invitations to the annual Head of School Dinner and other special events
• Recognition of your support in the Leadership Giving section of The Chronicle magazine
• Opportunity to have your story featured in NYA Alumni Profiles online
If you graduated from NYA this past decade, this option may be for you! We’ve created a giving structure with a young alum’s potential budget in mind. NYA alumni who are “Graduates of the Last Decade” (GOLD) are
invited to take advantage of this opportunity to become leadership donors. Through annual giving (either a onetime gift or recurring, monthly donations), NYA GOLD Society members keep the Academy’s mission alive by shaping the NYA experience for current students and supporting the work of faculty.
• Impact updates on how your giving supports faculty and helps students fulfill their potential
Gold Giving Levels
DONATE TODAY
@NYAPanthers nya.org/give Website
Younger alumni have an opportunity to give back through increased, incremental levels of support based on the number of years since graduation, allowing
Champion of the Year
Ellie Clifford ‘28 was honored as Best Buddies Champion of the Year for Maine at their annual fundraising gala this past fall. The celebration included a select group of individuals and community leaders whose philanthropic efforts helped raise funds, spread awareness, and advocated for individuals with mental disabilities.
them to build to the $1,000 Leadership giving level in their first 10 years.
A special opportunity for NYA alumni who are Graduates of the Last Decade (GOLD)
Younger alumni have an opportunity to give back through increased, incremental levels of support based on the number of years since graduation, allowing them to build to the $1,000 Leadership giving level in their first 10 years.
Clifford explains why the organization is so close to her heart, “I have been involved with Best Buddies for a lot of my life. My sister Caitlin has Down Syndrome and does lots of things with them. This organization is so important to me because it gives people like my sister opportunities that they would never have. I have always seen the things that my other siblings and I get to do that Caitlin can’t, which is really hard for us all. Best Buddies gives her
chances to do those things!” She started with a pickle ball tournament at NYA that raised over $1,000, then she collected donated auction items. There were also ticket sales to the gala and donations at the event. “I had one donation of $15,000 and a few for $5,000 which was amazing, and all those other donations just kept adding up. I ended the night with $64,000.”
Dear NYA Benefactors,
Thank you for making the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024 another remarkable year for North Yarmouth Academy.
This year, more than 1,988 gifts from alumni, parents, grandparents, faculty, staff, businesses, and friends collectively gave over $1.8 million in support of the Academy’s mission. We are especially proud that the Academy Fund surpassed its goal of $300,000 for the second consecutive year.
In the following pages, we are delighted to recognize the dedication and generosity of NYA donors, whose partnership and investment helps faculty and students pursue their most ambitious aspirations.
To every community member who dedicated time, energy, or philanthropic support to NYA this year—thank you!
With appreciation, Jennifer Richard P’29, P’31, P‘33 Director of Development
$1,869,837
Students and faculty feel the impact of your gifts every day.
NYA’s Endowment
What is an endowment?
An endowment is a permanent, self-sustaining source of funding. The endowment is funded through gifts. The entire purpose of an endowment is to generate income from its investment in stable accounts, as determined by the Investment Committee of the NYA Board of Trustees as advised by investment professionals.
Each year, a small portion of the value of the endowment is paid out to support the fund’s purpose (e.g. financial aid and scholarships, faculty support, or core operations), and any earnings in excess of this distribution (usually 4%) are used to build the fund’s value. In this way, an endowment fund will grow and provide support for its designated purpose in perpetuity.
Increasing NYA’s endowment is a key goal of the Academy’s strategic plan. But what is an endowment? Why is an endowment important? And how can we grow the endowment?
Why is an endowment important?
Endowment funds are important because they provide financial sustainability and support the organization’s mission over the long-term. NYA’s endowment funds help keep the school affordable, support programs that benefit students and faculty, and provide resources to attract and retain talented faculty.
For most schools, including NYA, the cost of educating students is not fully covered by tuition. As such, schools rely on the generosity of their donors to supplement tuition revenue. This support comes in two general forms: annual fund gifts, which provide funds for the current fiscal year, and endowment gifts, which are intended to provide support in perpetuity. Thus, endowment spending helps to keep tuition below the level that would be necessary if tuition alone paid the true cost of educating a student.
Endowment Growth
$1,737,184.97
$1,861,614.93
$2,465,548.73
$2,424,921.53
$2,855,638.80
$3,394,810.31
NYA’s Strategic Plan calls for growing the endowment to $5,000,000 by FY27 and $10,000,000 by FY32.
How can we grow the endowment?
An endowment grows through philanthropy and market returns.
The donated funds are invested, allowing the principal amount to remain intact while the returns on those investments contribute to the overall fund size. An Investment Committee of the Board of Trustees works with Harpswell Capital Advisors to build a diversified portfolio of investments that minimize risk and optimize returns.
The most powerful way to grow the endowment is through gifts from alumni, parents, grandparents, and friends. When you make a gift to an existing endowment fund or to create a new endowment fund, the entire donation (called the “principal”) is never spent and kept in an investment portfolio to continuously earn money.
For example, if you start a new endowment fund with a gift of $100,000, that fund, over 50 years, can grow to over $260,000, and distribute over $420,000 to NYA.
Legacy Gifts Make a Tremendous Impact
NYA recently received generous estate gifts from Susan Knight Cabot P’98, P’01, GP’30, GP’32, GP’36; David B. Osborne; Charles and Lee “Tinker” McCabe Whittier P’78, P’81; and C. David Winslow ‘80. Together, these benefactors contributed more than $430,000 to NYA, creating an impact that will be felt at the Academy far beyond their lifetimes.
These generous benefactors became members of the Founders Society by making provisions for NYA in their will, trust, retirement plan, and/ or life insurance policies. The Founders Society honors alumni, parents, grandparents, and friends who have the foresight to make plans to provide legacy gifts to NYA.
The gift from Susan Knight Cabot benefits an endowment to support library and literacy initiatives, David B. Osborne and C. David Winslow ’80 directed their support to need-based scholarships for NYA students, and the Whittier family’s unrestricted support made campus improvements possible.
Contributing to an endowment allows donors to fund specific programs or initiatives that are important to their family, name the fund in honor of their family or someone important to the donor, and create a legacy that lives forever.
A minimum donation of $50,000 is needed to establish a new endowment fund. There is no minimum for contributions to existing endowment funds.
How can alumni, parents, grandparents, and friends of NYA get involved?
For more information on NYA’s endowment and other fundraising priorities, please contact Jennifer Richard at jrichard@nya.org.
NYA is deeply grateful to all those who make planned gifts to support the Academy.
The goal of planned giving is to fulfill your philanthropic wishes in coordination with your overall financial and estate planning. To learn how to make NYA part of your legacy, visit www.nya.org/plannedgiving or contact Development Director Jennifer Richard at jrichard@nya.org.
James Cabot ’98, P’30, P’32, P’36 visits the Bicentennial Learning Commons with his mother, Susan Knight Cabot, in 2021
Noyes Brothers Offer Gift In-Kind
When brothers Will Noyes ’01 and Brent Noyes ’03 graduated, they never imagined playing a key role in NYA history. However, they recently came to the Academy’s rescue by moving the archives into a climate-safe space at their company, Earle W. Noyes & Sons Moving Specialists.
“The archives build pride and connection while helping us to understand the legacy and traditions of the Academy through primary sources,” said history teacher and NYA Dean of Students Lynn Sullivan. “I am deeply grateful that Will and Brent saw the value in preserving NYA history.”
Thank you to Will, Brent, and everyone at Earle W. Noyes & Sons Moving Specialists for their generosity and support.
Sullivan is the newest manager of the NYA archives, taking over the work of Jay Robbins P’99, P’07.
Ted ‘62 & Laurie Curtis P’93, P’95, P’97 * Class of 1963
Nick Burns ‘63 *
Steve True ‘63 *
Leslie Seymour Wears ‘63 * Class of 1964
Rich ‘64 & Laura Lindquist P’99, P’02 * Class of 1965
John Branson ‘65 *
Bob Crane ‘65 *
Tom ‘65 & Diana McHugh
Class of 1966
Bruce Brown ‘66 *
Jim Mills ‘66
David Mullare ‘66 *
Richard Samuelson ‘66 *
Class of 1967
Walter Page ‘67
Ted ‘67 & Carolyn Vaughan * Class of 1968
William Hart ‘68 *
Tom ‘68 & Holly McKenny *
Class of 1969
Bob Colby ‘69 *
Bob ‘69 & Carolyn McClay
Adam Smith ‘69
Class of 1971
Tom ‘71 & Kathy LaMountain *
Class of 1972
Mandi Arnold ‘72 *
Ben Davis ‘72
Evan ‘72 & Debra ‘72 Hansen
Mike Shea ‘72 *
Class of 1973
Jon Johansen ‘73
Class of 1975
Linc ‘75 & Kim Merrill P’04, P’06, GP’34 *
Class of 1977
Judy Sawyer Lake ‘77
Lisa Parker ‘77 *
Class of 1978
Ann Woodworth Ellis ‘78 *
Lorenzo Mendizabal ‘78
Class of 1979
Garry ‘79 & Julia Hallee
Blair Shea ‘79 *
Class of 1980
Brian Clarke ‘80 *
Dana ‘80 & Betsy Twombly P’09, P’12 *
The Estate of C. David Winslow ‘80
Class of 1981
Jody Hansen ‘81 *
HONOR ROLL of DONORS
Hei-Ja Martin ‘81
Guy & Phebe Royer ‘81 Quattrucci P’18 *
Steve Whittier ‘81
Class of 1983
Jane Ellyn Hamilton ‘83
Jeff McCarthy ‘83
Class of 1984
Meg Fenderson ‘84 *
Class of 1985
Wellman Brewer II ‘85 *
Desiree Pullen Merritt ‘85, P’21 *
Eric ‘85 & Tracy Weinrich
Class of 1987
Valentine ‘87 & Michelle Sheldon P’29, P’31 *
Class of 1988
Liz Allen ‘88 *
John & Jen Humphreys ‘88 Rohde P’22, P’23, P’25
Sig & Anne Thompson ‘88 Schutz P’23, P’24*
Class of 1989
Sven Fahlgren ‘89 & Kelly Scharf Fahlgren P’25, P’28 *
Drew ‘89 & Alexa Oestreicher *
Class of 1990
Ellen Benson ‘90 *
Timothy Brooke ‘90
Sunil Nayak ‘90 *
Joel Thompson ‘90
Class of 1991
Andrew ‘91 & Ann Hayes *
Peter Latvis ‘91
Laura Hayes McPeake ‘91
Class of 1992
Tim Kendrick ‘92
Ginny Flower Marvin ‘92
Alison Roper Mazzola ‘92
Drew ‘93 & Lisa Pellerin ‘92 Taylor P’25, P’30
Class of 1993
Drew ‘93 & Lisa Pellerin ‘92 Taylor P’25, P’30
Jeff Townes ‘93 *
Class of 1994
Jay ‘94 & Julie Flower *
Class of 1995
Jason ‘95 & Colleen Currier *
Molly McMahon ‘95
Scott & Caroline Olmstead ‘95 Wallach *
Class of 1996
Cory ‘96 & Lyndie Fasold *
Class of 1997
Jim Wilkerson & Christina Cinelli ‘97 *
Johanna Coyle ‘97 *
Matt Greason ‘97
Alysa Curtis Porter ‘97 *
Class of 1998
James ‘98 & Beba Cabot P’30, P’32, P’36 *
James ‘98 & Courtney Anson ‘98 Garrett *
Mike & Heather Graul ‘98 Geoghan *
Jared Rand ‘98
Natasha Malinkski Sun ‘98
Class of 1999
Krista Lindquist Welch ‘99 *
Bri O’Hare Laurence ‘99
Hugh Robbins ‘99 & Carrie Mathers-Suter *
Jackie Young ‘99 *
Class of 2000
Colin Bumby ‘00 *
Emily Clark O’Meara ‘00 *
Brian & Katie Crockett ‘00 Stack
Charlie ‘00 & Melissa Weaver P’29
Class of 2001
Parker ‘01 & Colleen Adams P’31 *
Alex ‘01 & Anne-Marie Cabot
Pat & Betsey Reiche Ducas ‘01
Ashley Dunham Smalley ‘01
Dan ‘01 & Rachel Melnick
During the period of July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024, the following benefactors helped to strengthen NYA through their gifts. Thank you for your investment in NYA.
Brian ‘01 & Meg McGoldrick ‘01 Stornelli * Class of 2002
Liz Bachelder ‘02 & David Messinger * Roscoe Bishop ‘02
Kristi Clough ‘02 *
Adam Lindquist ‘02
Eric Piasio ‘02 *
Class of 2003
Chris Bixby ‘03 *
Brittany Hosmer Longoria ‘03 *
Tucker Kelton ‘03
Class of 2004
Tom Austin ‘04
Sarah Feldman ‘04
Tara Merrill ‘04, P’34 * Class of 2005
Nate Bishop ‘05
Charlie ‘05 & Heather Fear *
Pete Fitz ‘05 & Jane Affleck Fitz P’38, P’39
Peter ‘05 & Julia Gerrity *
Jason ‘05 & Danielle Kroot
Ryan & Molly Moss ‘05 Stokes P’38
Jim & Caty von Brecht ‘05 Werner *
Class of 2006
Scott Carpenter ‘06
Chelsey Merrill Holbrook ‘06 *
Nathan ‘06 & Alison Isaacson *
Peter Lowell ‘06
Kat Gribbel Oberg ‘06 *
Taki Pilitsis ‘06 *
Parker Swenson ‘06 *
Class of 2007
Zach ‘07 & Meghan Garcia *
Grace Hyndman ‘07 *
Robin Klasek ‘07
Travis Kroot ‘07
Kim Morse ‘07
Wes Norton ‘07 *
Russ Simms ‘07
Class of 2008
Marion Leslie Akie ‘08 *
Alexandra Noyes ‘08
Annie Znamierowski ‘08
Class of 2009
Calum Barnes ‘09
Garrett Bowne V ‘09 *
Chris Edwards ‘09
Sam Fear ‘09
Simon Hebert ‘09
Colin & Abigail Moss ‘09 Henderson P’40
Christopher Meixell ‘09 Class of 2010
Courtney Dumont ‘10
Matthew & Maddy Beasley ‘10 Stolt * Class of 2011
Andrew Esancy ‘11
Frances Leslie ‘11 Class of 2012
Hadley Gibson ‘12
Evan Kendall ‘12 Class of 2013
Ben Claytor ‘13
Matt Hawkins ‘13
Carly Lappas ‘13 * Class of 2014
Jarred Davis ‘14
Sydney Garcia ‘14 *
Jennifer Machin ‘14
Max Maurer ‘14
Kayla Rose ‘14 *
Class of 2015
Kristina Block ‘15
Clayton Manchester ‘15
Marina Poole ‘15
Rhiannon Ramsey-Brimberg ‘15
Livy Stam ‘15 *
Mina Stam ‘15 *
Class of 2016
Anna Laprise ‘16
Elizabeth McIntosh ‘16 *
Mackenzie Sangster ‘16 *
Class of 2017
Sam Johnson ‘17
Jake Malcom ‘17 *
Class of 2019
Amber Rose ‘19 *
Andrew Schaeffer ‘19
Class of 2020
Bronwen Ramsey-Brimberg ‘20
Class of 2021
Naomi Reischmann ‘21
Class of 2022
Henry Bergeron ‘22
Emilia McKenney ‘22
Bryce Poulin ‘22
Topher Prokopius ‘22
Jack Schaeffer ‘22
Class of 2023
Brayden Warde ‘23
Parents of Alumni
Rick & Debby Abbondanza P’04 *
Jennifer Abbott P’08 *
Nick & Jessie Alberding P’18, P’21 *
Dennis & Christine Anderson P’07, P’08, P’13, P’15
Philip & Meredith Anson P’98, P’00, P’02, P’08 *
Eric & Amy Austin P’15, P’17 *
Deborah Strachan & Steve Bachelder P’02, P’04 *
James & Rebecca Belleau P’22, P’23, P’30
Sandy Bennett P’09
Hank & Anna Benoit P’13
Gregory & Deborah Bianconi P’98, P’00, GP’27
Guilherme Bila & Maria Tuta P’22, P’24
Kenneth & Beverly Bixby P’03 * Michael Caron & Julia Bjorn P’14 * Garrett & Janet Bowne P’09, P’11 *
Rene & Yvonne Braun P’16
Mike & Barb Brown P’11, P’13
Christian & Michele Buehner P’19, P’23 * Josh & Susan Burns P’13
John & Ronni-Jo Carpenter P’06, P’06, P’09 * David & Lynne Champoux P’07, P’10 * Peter & Gail Cinelli P’97 *
Anonymous Manasse Shingiro & Kristen Marsh P’34, P’37
Vatche Tchekmedyian & Maya Haddad P’37, P’39 Class of 2038
Anonymous
Joshua & Amanda Bartlett P’36, P’38
Matt & Emily Birchby P’32, P’34, P’38
David & Asha Echeverria P’35, P’38 *
Jesse & KC Edwards P’38
Pete Fitz ‘05 & Jane Affleck Fitz P’38, P’39
Michael & Carolyn Force P’36, P’38
Scotty & Shelley Linscott P’31, P’35, P’38 *
Dan & Samantha Miller P’38
Bruce & Margaret Philp P’38, P’39
Jon & Ashley Shinay P’36, P’38
Ryan & Molly Moss ‘05 Stokes P’38
Marshall & Kat Wallach P’38, P’40
Class of 2039
Anonymous
Pete Fitz ‘05 & Jane Affleck Fitz P’38, P’39
Mic Gonzalez & Caitlin Bevan P’39
Nathaniel & Jennifer LeBlanc P’39
Chris & Amy Mazzurco P’39 *
Anuj & Sophia Mediratta P’39, P’41
Bruce & Margaret Philp P’38, P’39
Vatche Tchekmedyian & Maya Haddad P’37, P’39
Lindsay Turner P’39
Nate Vatanasangpun & Venna Srirattana P’39
Class of 2040
Collin & Abigail Moss ‘09 Henderson P’40
Chris & Izzy Piper P’40
Teddy & Ana Piper P’40 *
Chris Saucier & Kacey Lane P’40
Marshall & Kat Wallach P’38, P’40
2023-2024 Trustees
Nick Alberding P’18, P’21 *
James Cabot ‘98, P’30, P’32, P’36 * Jason Currier ‘95 *
Frederique Daniel P’26, P’28, P’30, P’32 *
James Garrett ‘98 *
Bob Hilscher P’16, P’18, P’20 * Nathan Isaacson ‘06 *
Sarah Kirby P’28, P’30 * Christopher Lorenz P’28, P’30 * Jess Lynch P’29, P’31 * Steve Malcom P’15, P’17 * Linda Manchester P’15, P’20 * Barbara Marr P’17 *
Christie Rana P’26, P’28, P’31 * Hannah Renyi P’29, P’32 * Pete Robbins P’22, P’25 * Catriona Sangster P’16 * Sig Schutz P’23, P’24 * Betsy Tod P’20, P’25 * Caty von Brecht Werner ‘05 *
Honorary Gifts
In Honor of Ian Ramsey
Sandy Bennett P’09
In Honor of Leslie Pike
Matt & Emily Birchby P’32, P’34, P’38
In Honor of Mrs. Holloway
Ben Birney P’27
In Honor of Bill Hallett
Colin Bumby ‘00
In Honor of Mr. Markonish: the man who helped me be the speaker/writer I am today.
Jarred Davis ‘14
In Honor of Kayla ‘14 & Amber ‘19 Rose
Harold & Jeanette Duvall GP’14, GP’19
In Honor of Ian Ramsey, who welcomed me & my wife back to campus with the
gift of music. Appreciate that all my NYA teachers can go to that extra level for us when we need it.
Chris Edwards ‘09
In Honor of the indoor & outdoor track & field program. The athletic requirement at NYA had an immense impact on my life & mental health and provided me with the tools for success in the future.
Sam Fear ‘09
In Honor of Michelle Buehner for a wonderful year of 5th grade
Colin & Lizzy Jones P’31
In Honor of Hadley, Eliza, Annabelle & Oliver
Jim & Ellen Macklin GP’26, GP’28, GP’33, GP’35
In Honor of Mr. Flaherty. Best teacher and human. He made riding the bus fun. He made US History fun. He made every student feel welcome & at home & cared about. And he made education fun.
Alison Mazzola ‘92
In Honor of Miss Kassi for the wonderful year that Gabriella had with her.
Chris & Amy Mazzurco P’39
In Honor of Miss Morgan and the wonderful year Gabriella had with her.
Chris & Amy Mazzurco P’39
In Honor of Ross Markonish
The Mathers-Suter Family
In Honor of Mr. Nathan Smith. We are very proud of how dedicated & effective you are as a teacher, and we are proud to call you our son.
Thomas & Lillian Smith GP’26, GP’28
In Honor of Mrs. Jess Smith. We admire your passion for teaching & the positive impact you have on your students. We are proud to have you as a daughter-in-law.
Thomas & Lillian Smith GP’26, GP’28
In Honor of Lynn Sullivan—our favorite teacher!
Katie Crockett Stack ‘00
Memorial Gifts
In Memory of Hannah Austin ‘15
Nick & Jessie Alberding P’18, P’21
Russ & Carol Austin GP’15, GP’17
Suzanne Beatty
Gretchen & Stefan Bergill
Holly Bernene
Julia Bjorn & Michael Caron P’14
Garrett & Janet Bowne P’09, P’11
James ‘98 & Beba Cabot P’30, P’32, P’36
Leah Davis
Peter & Meg Dion
Fred Field & Karen Dobbyn P’12
David Simpson & Carol Eisenberg P’15, P’22
Shari Elder
Dave Gagne & Kris Gibson P’10, P’12, P’19
Jack & Kathi Hardy P’12
Carly Harris
Doug & Tara Johnson P’17
Lee & Trisha Knowles
Jed & Mao Mao Liebert
Christopher & MaryBeth
Lorenz P’28, P’30
Steve Malcom & Martha Barrett P’15, P’17
Barbara Marr P’17
Chris & Amy Mazzurco P’39
Kevin & Lisa McGlinn
Jack & Elaine McMahon P’93, P’95
Chip & Helen Nunley
Vanessa Paolella
Ashley Randlett
Mike Rayder & Beth Franklin P’07, P’12, P’12
Jarod & Jennifer Richard P’29, P’31, P’33
Pete Robbins & Anne Snow P’22, P’25
John & Jen Humphreys ‘88 Rohde P’22, P’23, P’25
Thomas & Sally Rohrer
Barry & Kimberly Shonbeck
Livy Stam ‘15
Ted & Lynn Stam P’15, P’15
William Stengle
Lynn Sullivan
Jim & Beth Taylor P’16, P’23
Hall & Debbie Thompson P’88, P’90, GP’23, GP’24
Don Youker & Ann Block P’15, P’16 In Memory of Carolyn J. Smith
Patricia Merrill In Memory of The Class and Faculty of 1963. Thank you, Mr. Mitchell.
Nick Burns ‘63
In-Kind & Event Gifts
Earle W Noyes & Sons Moving Specialists
2023 Steve Morris Golf Tournament
Sponsors
Boothbay Harbor Country Club
Hebert Construction
Simon Hebert '09
Tim & Melissa Hebert P’25, P’27
HM Payson
Anne Snow & Peter Robbins P’22, P’25, GP, 34
Jay ‘94 & Julie Flower
Hopkinson & Abbondanza
Rick & Debby Abbondanza P’04
Industrial Roofing Company
Dennis & Kelley St. Hilaire P’23, P’23
Earl & Angie St. Hilaire P’24, P’25
Jess Lynch & Dewey Mote P’29, P’31
Patriot Insurance Company
Linc ‘75 & Kim Merrill P’04, P’06
Chris & Lori Poulin P’22, & Bryce Poulin ‘22
Trafton, Matzen, Belleau & Frenette, LLP
James & Rebecca Belleau P’22, P’23, P’30
Soirée Sponsors & Champions
Presenting Sponsors
$4,000
Patriot Insurance Company
Linc ‘75 & Kim Merrill P’04, P’06, GP’34
Varsity Sponsors $2,000
CulinArt Group
The Good Life Market
Walt & Linda Manchester P’15, P’20
New England Touchless Car Wash
Shawn & Kristin Casey P’24, P’25
Panther $1,000
Casco Bay Ford
Harvard Pilgrim Healthcare
Steve Conley & Michele Duvall P’14, P’19
HM Payson
Peter Robbins & Anne Snow P’22, P’25
Jay ‘94 & Julie Flower
Hopkinson & Abbondanza
Rick & Debby Abbondanza P’04
Industrial Roofing Company
Dennis & Kelley St. Hilaire P’23, P’23
Earl & Angie St. Hilaire P’24, P’25
Kinglsey Pines Camp
Drew ‘93 & Lisa Pellerin
Taylor ‘92, P’25, P’30
Knickerbocker Group, Inc.
Steve Malcom & Martha
Barrett P’15, P’17
Lebel & Harriman, LLP
Payroll Management, Inc.
Gary & Elaine Hemenway GP’14, GP’19, GP’21
Pine Capital, LLC
Christopher & MaryBeth Lorenz P’28, P’30
Pine State Pest Solutions
Parker ‘01 & Colleen Adams P’31
Lori & Chris Poulin P’22 & Family
Preti Flaherty, LLP
Sig & Anne Thompson Schutz ‘88, P’23, P’24
Orange $500
Androvise Realty
Chad & Sherri Sylvester P’29
Brickyard Hollow Brewing Company
Connectivity Point Design & Installation
Fred C. Church, Inc.
Holman Homes
Dave & Rommy Holman P’34, P’36
Northeast Delta Dental
Scarborough Dental Associates
Jon & Ashley Shinay P’36, P’38
Scott Dugas Trucking & Excavating
Workgroup Technology Partners
Black $250
Clayton’s Café & Bakery
Custom Coach of New England
Brian Gilbert Associates
Great Clips
Tim & Hannah Renyi P’29, P’32
Matrix Fitness
Play It Again Sports
Soirée Prize & Auction Item Donors
Absolem Cider
Rick & Debby Abbondanza P’04
Blue Lobster Urban Winery
Jason ‘05 & Danielle Kroot
Chen Chen Flower Farm
Club Pilates West Bayside
Evelyn Dunphy GP’27, GP’30, GP36
Dynamic Physical Therapy & Sports
Conditioning
Stephanie Sersich & Tom Eichler P’28, P’29
Evo Restaurant
Explore Movement
Chris & Jane Flower P’94
Golden Nozzle Car Wash
Grand Summit Hotel
Scott & Corrine Larson P’19, P’20
Little Heirloom Photography
Maine Amateur Hockey Association
Maine Plastic Surgery
Jarrod & Freddie Daniel P’26, P’28, P’30, P’32
Steve Malcom & Martha Barrett P’15, P’17
Linc ‘75 & Kim Merrill P’04,P’06, GP’34
Mindy’s Munchies
Moon Stone Pottery & Elementals
Jess Lynch & Dewey Mote P’29, P’31
My Super Smile, Dr. Shems
Rytualist Aesthetics Bar
Snowfields Farm
Brian ‘01 & Meg McGoldrick ‘01 Stornelli
Nick & Jessie Alberding P’18, P’21
In-Kind Donors
Cold River Vodka
Drs. Lee & Holly Thibodeau P’21, P’25
Griffin & Griffin Lighting, LLC
John & Josie Griffin P’27, P’29
Allagash Brewing Company
Rob & Betsy Tod P’20, P’25
48 Long Stems
Special thanks to our volunteers, the NYA
Soirée Planning Committee
Anna Bianconi ‘00, P’27; Kelly Brewer P’31, P’33; Collette Cushing P’32; Anne Daniel P’28; Freddie Daniel P’26, P’28, P’30, P’32; Jessie Demers P’39; Wayne Demers P’39; Tori Dunphy P’27, P’30, P’36; Kate Hamill P’38, P’40; Erin Houghton P’28; Danielle King P’22, P’24, GP’37; Diane Mutagoma P’22, P’25, P’33; Jess Lynch P’29, P’31; Tina McGillicuddy P’27, P’30, P’33; Fulton Oakes ‘81; Michelle Sheldon P’29, P’31; Ashley Shinay P’36, P’38; Alexis Sullivan P’28, P’31; Sarah Sweeney P’26, P’29; Lisa Pellerin Taylor ‘92, P’25, P’30; Betsy Tod P’20, P’25; Jennifer Weissner P’26
Alumni Association Leadership Council
Hugh Robbins ‘99, Chair, Julia Bachelder ‘04, James Cabot ‘98, Jay Flower ‘94, James Garrett ‘98, Lucy Gerrity ‘09, Ellie Hilscher ‘20, Josh Kelton ‘06, Carly Lappas ‘13, David Mitchell ‘67, Mason Parks ‘20, Kayla Rose ‘14, Sharon Libby Sharp ‘61, Briana O’Hare ‘99, Caroline Olmstead Wallach ‘95
North Yarmouth Academy Class Agents
Chris Bixby ‘03
James Cabot ‘98
Katie Cawley ‘12
Brian Clarke ‘80
Julia Bachelder Cole ‘04
Ross Cudlitz ‘74
Allison Felix Huke ‘96
David Fenderson ‘81
Jay Flower ‘94
Henry Gerrity ‘07
Timothy Hardy ‘77
Ellie Hilscher ‘20
Margaret Horan ‘85
Joanne Partridge Jones ‘57
Lissa von Brecht King ‘02
Sarah King ‘93
Anna Laprise ‘16
Peter Latvis ‘91
Peter Lowell ‘06
Whitney Martin ‘78
Linc Merrill ‘75
Reese Merritt ‘21
Chris Morrill '79
Drew Myers ‘98
Gianna Nappi ‘13
Lucy Gerrity Newton ‘09
Matthew Noone ‘92
Caroline Kendrick Orrison ‘88
Monica Simmons Parker ‘95
Mason Parks ‘20
Roderick Pendleton ‘84
Margaret Kingsbury Peterson ‘73
Marina Poole ‘15
Thornton Ring ‘64
Class Notes
George Stone ’41 celebrated his 100th birthday on May 31, 2024, surrounded by friends and family including grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was recently interviewed by a local Vermont paper, the Brattleboro Reformer on turning 100 and his D-Day reflections.
Laura ’48 and Ernie ’46 Winslow wrote to say, “We LOVED North Yarmouth Academy!!!” and asked that any alumni from their classes reach out to them through the Alumni Office (alumni@ nya.org). The Winslows moved to California many years ago and would be delighted to hear from alums in their era.
Lucy (Towle) Spence ’58 writes that after she graduated from Eastern Baptist College (now Eastern University), she was an elementary school teacher for 31 years. She is retired now and shares five children, 15 grandchildren, and seven great grands with husband Warren (88 years). Her note says she “loves the many special memories of her four years at NYA” and “remains impressed” with all that is happening at NYA today.
Kayla Rose ‘14
Mackenzie Sangster ‘16
Anne Thompson Schutz ‘88
Jen Scully ‘97
Sharon Libby Sharp ‘61
Ralph Sparks ‘72
Katie Crockett Stack ‘00
Molly Moss Stokes ‘05
Parker Swenson ‘06
Joel Thompson ‘90
Alison Znamierowski ‘11
Anne Znamierowski ‘08
Founder’s Society
Anonymous
Estate of Mary Anderson
Melissa Anderson ‘91
Estate of Alice N. Blanchard
Allen Bornheimer ‘60, GP’31 *
James Cabot ‘98, P’30, P’32, P’36 *
The Estate of Susan Knight Cabot P’98, P’01, GP’30, GP’32, GP’36
Muriel Cleaves ‘52
Cater Coughlan ‘88
Ben Davis ‘72
David Fenderson ‘81, P’14
Clifford George ‘71
Joanna Gove Smith ‘86
Estate of David Greep
Estate of George Warren Hammond
Oakley Jones ‘68
Estate of John Kauffmann
John Branson ’65 writes, “I am retired from
volunteer for the park and continue to write about the history of the Lake Clark area.”
Glen Christensen ’56 and fellow alums, Dorothy “Dot” Leighton ’56, Joan Smith ’56, Sally Ridlon ’58, Dwight Doughty, Joan Estabrook ’57, Linda Estabrook ’56, Ed Leighton, Chuck Ridlon ’56, and Glen Estabrook ’56 gathered for lunch in July at Toddy Brook Golf Course to reminisce and reconnect.
Robert Crane ’65 lives happily in Point Richmond, CA. After nine years with the U.S. Navy and a Civil Service career, he spent—and still spends—his time traveling around the country touring and taking slides. He plans to return to NYA sometime during 2025 when he’ll be back that way. He says “Hi!” to all those who
Lane Family Bequest
Estate of Esther B. Mahall
Estate of William Mann
Mabel C. Marston Trust
Estate of Helen D. Maxim
Linc ‘75 & Kim Merrill P’04, P’06 *
Estate of Susan C. Merrill
Warren Miskell P’15, P’18 * David Mitchell ‘67
Bruce Myers P’98, P’00
Julia Noyes ‘84
Estate of David B. Osborne *
Estate of William Porter
Sam Robinson P’89
Estate of Travis Roy ‘94
Keith Russell ‘84
Mike & Priscilla Savage P’88, P’90 *
James Skillings, Sr. P’84, P’88
Estate of Howard Small P’61
Albert & Margaret Snith
Dorothy Furber Smith ‘42
Estate of Levi M. Stewart
Charles & Anita Stickney
Christine E. Sweetser ‘38
Hall & Debbie Thompson P’88, P’90, GP’23, GP’24 *
Eric Weinrich ‘85
Estate of Edgar F. White ‘38 *
Estate of Charles & Lee McCabe Whittier P’78, P’81
Estate of C. David Winslow ‘80
Glen Zimmerman ‘67
remember him during the 1964/65 school year “when we used to play soccer, run track and take Polaroid pictures around the NYA campus.” He also sang with the local Congregational Church choir.
John Higgins ’95 reports that he and his wife, Amy Kuhn ’94, just celebrated their one-year anniversary. “We like to call it a marriage 30 years in the making.”
Katie Crockett Stack ’00 writes, “I recently accepted a new position at Gould Academy as the Dean of Community Life and Belonging. I oversee our community events and residential, student leadership, and advisory programs. I am excited about this opportunity and honored to be chairing a strategic planning committee.”
Katie Crockett Stack ‘00, Amy Stone Costigan ‘00, and Emily Clark O’Meara ‘00 enjoy reuniting
Lake Clark National Park & Preserve but am a
Left to right: Front row: Dot Leighton, Joan Smith, Sally Ridlon, Dwight Doughty, Joan Estrabrook, Linda Estrabrook. Back row: Glendon Christensen, Ed Leighton, Chuck Ridlon, Glen Estrabrook
with their families in Maine every summer and especially enjoy torturing their kids by lining them up for this traditional photo. Here they are in Sebago Lake: Finn 13, Gwendolyn 12, Maeve 11, Cormac 10, Preston 9, Brigid 8, and Maeve 7.
See page 23 for information about brothers Will Noyes ’01 and Brent Noyes ’03 and how they recently came to the Academy’s rescue when they moved the archives into a climate-safe space at their company, Earle W Noyes & Sons Moving Specialists.
NYA alums Charley Stetson ’04 and Kyle Rancourt ’03 each joined Ian Ramsey’s Brain Training classes this past fall—Charley via Zoom and Kyle in person.
Matt Curran ‘04, Tom Austin ’04, Dan Bartlett ’04, and a friend of theirs won the Casco Bay Hockey golf tournament, Slicing for Slapshots, at the Toddy Brook Golf Course in North Yarmouth in July.
Katherine (Katie) Knight ‘07 writes that she is back in Maine and is currently a 2L at the University of Maine School of Law. She’s a Teaching Fellow, Trial Competition Team member, and the Events Coordinator for the Maine Association of Public Interest Law. She is on track to graduate with her J.D. in May 2026.
a frequent guest on the NYA campus. “Coming home to NYA was long overdue. The Academy and the people continue to make a significant impact on my life. I must share more info about what I’ve been up to since 2009, and I plan to. Re: why the Ice Arena gets me so pumped up and feeling right at home, please find attached a photo I meant to bring that my mother shared recently from ~1998/99. Card carrying member. Loved seeing camp bustling this summer.”
Peter Hyndman ’09 writes, “I got married to Alisha Kinlaw (Central Bucks South High School Class of 2010) on September 14, 2024, at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia! Alisha and I met at the Temple University Beasley School of Law in 2016 and graduated together in 2019. Both of us now work as attorneys for the Federal Government—I work for the National Labor Relations Board, and Alisha works for the Department of Education. In what will surely come as a shock to many of my classmates, we live in Philadelphia, conveniently located about three miles from the Phillies’ and Eagles’ stadiums. Teenage Peter would be delighted to know how many Philadelphia sports games his grown-up self gets to go to, and with his amazing wife to boot! Dreams really do come true.”
Christine Reighley ’10 Held created Maine the Way with her partner, Cam Held, in 2014 as a platform to showcase the beauty of Maine, and the photographers who capture it through their lenses. Over the next two years, the carefully curated content shared by Mainers and visitors on the platform helped grow it into one of the largest Maine Instagram accounts. In 2023, they created Guidebook 01: Outdoor Recreation—the first in their new guidebook series. Visit their site at mainetheway.com for more details.
Chris Edwards ’09 and his wife, Tyler McClay, recently moved back to Maine, and he has been
Grace Hyndman (‘07), Joe Warren (‘09), and Zach Vary (Priscilla B. Savage Middle School Class of 2005) were in the wedding party. Also in attendance were Miles Isacke (‘09), Victor Churchill (‘09), and Norwood Cohan-Smith (‘09)
Kate Merrill ’09 was inducted into the Edgar F. White ’38 Athletic Hall of Fame during homecoming. See page 19 for more details.
Matt Hawkins ’13 stopped by to present to Jess Violette’s Engineering class. Matt went to Colby College to student Physics & Economics and went on to earn his Master’s in Mechanical Engineering at Duke. Matt started his career at Lockheed Martin, first working on the F-35 program and then joining the R&D team focused on autonomous aircraft (more recently popular for its involvement in the recent Top Gun film).He is currently building a startup in Boston called Pryzm that is focused on making the government technology acquisition process better, working primarily with aerospace companies.
Jarred Davis ’14 writes, “I’ve recently started my new job here with S&N. Currently, I am working in large commercial litigation and transactions. I wanted to thank NYA again for setting me on the right path. Before starting at NYA in 2012, going to college was more of a novelty than an attainable goal.”
Lillian Dearing ’14 and Daniel Romero were married on July 20, 2024, at Saint Maximilian Kolbe in Scarborough with a reception at River Winds Farm & Estate in Saco. (Photo below by Wildwood Studios). She is the Marketing & Communications Associate at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston.
From left to right: Aislinn Murphy (Miles’ wife), Miles, Amanda Bonaiuto (Zach’s partner), Zach, Alisha, me, Mary Bridges (Victor’s wife), Victor, Joe, and Norwood.
Rhiannon Ramsey-Brimberg ’15 writes, “I now live in Stonington, CT. After high school, I received a BA in Performance (2020) from Berklee College of Music and a MA in Irish Music Studies (2024) from the University of Limerick. In 2022, I won the Iain Macleòid Young Composer Award and debuted the piece at the Edinburgh International Harp Festival in Scotland. The following year, I was invited to compete at the Princess Margaret of the Isles Memorial Prize for Senior Clarsach (Scottish harp) where I won first place as well as best original composition. This past summer, I became a judge for traditional Scottish harp competitions through the Scottish Harp Society of America, and I am this year’s winner of the organization’s United States National Harp Competition. All of this is thanks to the lever harp that NYA owns(ed?) and allowed me to borrow. I began taking harp lessons my sophomore year of high school, and I have not stopped playing since! Professionally, I go by Rhiannon Skye, and if anyone would like to learn more, they can visit my website." rhiannonskyeharpist.com
Henry Sterling ’10, qualified for the 2024 Olympic Marathon Trials. This is his second Olympic Marathon Trials. He finished 95th in 2020 in 2:24:40.
In November 2024, NYA alum, Mary Morrison ’15 MacMillan started substitute teaching in the Primary Classroom in the Lower School. We are excited to welcome her back to NYA!
Reed Silvers ’19 met up with Connor Dillon ‘18 on Christmas in Utah where they are both following their skiing passions for the season.
Lauren Tufts ’17 writes, “This year has been amazingly crazy for me! I would love to submit a class note that may inspire some of the seniors who will soon be going off to college! In February, I paid off $50,000 of Student Loan Debt, all from my four years at Endicott College! I applied to do My Debt Free Scream on The Ramsey Show and was chosen! My family and I flew down to Nashville, and I did my Debt Free Scream live on The Ramsey Show in front of Dave Ramsey and Jade Warshaw in August! I’m
overjoyed to say I’m 100% debt free as a 25-yearold! Additionally, I was accepted into the Ramsey Ambassador Program! While Ramsey Solutions is still building the foundation of their Ambassador Program, I suggested that it would be amazing to teach students about budgeting and how they can begin to pay off debt or even go into college having to not take out loans.”
In February 2024, Tessa Quattrucci ’18 was welcomed to the NYA faculty. Known as “Ms. Q” to many on campus, she is the Lower School Science Enrichment teacher and Lower School assistant.
Nathan Barmby ’24 writes, “I’m studying Industrial Design at RIT. There was a mandatory nine-day workshop for all first-year art majors. We had to construct a wearable sculpture that spoke to the subject of play. I designed a puzzle piece using cardboard, paint, and many paint chip samples from Home Depot. At the end of the nine days, there was a judged fashion show where 20 lucky students, out of 900, were picked to have their creations on display in the gallery on campus. I was one of them!”
Congratulations to Jack Sillin ’18 & Charlotte Collins ’18 on their engagement! They live in Westbrook where Charlotte is going to Tufts Medical School in the Maine track program. Jack is a meteorologist in the energy industry.
IN MEMORIAM
Announcements of deceased NYA alumni are published in the Chronicle annually and as we become aware of their passing. We invite members of the NYA community to send obituaries to the Alumni Relations Office, alumni@nya.org.
The NYA community extends its deepest sympathy to the loved ones of recently deceased alumni and friends.
ALUMNI BY CLASS YEAR
1946
Richard “Dick” Leroy Morrill
January 28, 2024
1949
Marjorie Chamberlain
November 26, 2024
1953
Deane G. Bornheimer
April 13, 2024
1954
Ruth Lenintine Mitchell
October 29, 2023
Catherine Myers Vilburn
November 11, 2023
1955
Barbara Mansfield Reny
December 23, 2023
1962
Pauline “Polly” May Latty Kaiser
December 26, 2023
1963
Paul Clough
October 2, 2024
1964
John Mulry
October 2, 2024
1966
John D. MacLeod
December 15, 2023
1967
William “Bill” Burnell
January 14, 2024
Ray Edgar Johnson
April 11, 2024
1971
Kenneth N. Flanders
October 21, 2024
2015
Hannah Walker Austin
April 8, 2024
OTHERS
Dorothy “Dottie” Arlene Boyce
Former Faculty – English Teacher 1956-1957
October 24, 2023
Gordon Wakelin
Former Rink Manager and Hockey Coach
January 11, 2024
Carolyn (Judkins) Smith
Former Faculty
January 16, 2024
Albert “Albie” Richard Smith
Former Head of School 1975-1981
June 9, 2024
Paisley Dutta '29
Mountain Lake
HONORING HANNAH AUSTIN ‘15
The Hannah Austin ’15 Memorial Scholarship Fund was establishedin May 2024 with gifts from more than 50 people in the NYA community, including a leadership gift from Nick and Jessie Alberding P’18, P’21. The endowed scholarship fund celebrates the strength, courage, athletic dedication, tenacity, sense of humor, and optimism displayed by Hannah, who passed away after a courageous, three-year battle with brain cancer.
The inaugural Hannah Austin ’15 Memorial Scholarships were presented by the Austin family during the NYA Soirée to seniors Graca Bila and Lily Rawnsley. Recipients received funds to pursue their college education.
To learn more about the Fund or make a gift, reach out to Director of Development Jennifer Richard at jrichard@nya.org
Hannah Austin watercolor by Colby Myer, Upper School art teacher
Photo of award recipients Graca Bila and Lily Rawnsley, Eric Austin, Amy Austin, and Sarah Austin ’17 at the Soirée
Alicia Fontana '27
Portrait of a Lady
Class of 2024
Assumption University (2)
Bates College
Bentley University (2)
Berklee College of Music
Bryant University
Carleton University
Central Maine Community College
Clark University
Clarkson University (5)
Colby College
Colby-Sawyer College
College of the Holy Cross
Concordia University (Montreal) (5)
Connecticut College (2)
Curry College
DePaul University
Elon University (2)
Endicott College (3)
Gettysburg College
HEC Montreal
High Point University (2)
Hobart and William Smith Colleges (2)
Hult International Business School (Boston)
Ithaca College
Kennesaw State University
Louisiana State University
Maine Maritime Academy (2)
Marist College
Massachusetts Maritime Academy
Merrimack College (6)
Middlebury College
Milwaukee School of Engineering
Mount Allison University
New England College
North Carolina State University
Northeastern University (2)
Norwich University
Plymouth State University (2)
Providence College (5)
Queen’s University (2)
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Rivier University
Roanoke College (2)
Rochester Institute of Technology (3)
Rutgers University (New Brunswick)
Saint Anselm College (4)
Saint Joseph’s College of Maine
Salem State University (3)
Salve Regina University
Siena College
Southern Maine Community College
Southern New Hampshire University
St. Edward’s University
Stephen F Austin State University
Stonehill College
Suffolk University
Syracuse University
The Evergreen State College
The New England Conservatory of Music
The University of Alabama
The University of Tampa
The University of Tennessee (Knoxville)
Thomas College
Trine University
Trinity College
Tulane University of Louisiana
Union College
University of Arizona
University of California (Santa Cruz)
University of Connecticut (3)
University of Denver (2)
University of Maine (2)
University of Maine at Augusta
University of Maine at Farmington
University of Maine at Presque Isle
University of Massachusetts (Amherst)
University of Miami
University of New Brunswick
University of New England (4)
University of New Hampshire (Main Campus) 9
University of Rhode Island (3)
University of Richmond
University of South Carolina
University of Southern Maine (5)
University of St Andrews
University of Toronto
University of Vermont (4)
Utica University
Wentworth Institute of Technology (4)
Western New England University (2)
Western University
Wheaton College - MA
148 Main Street, Yarmouth, Maine 04096
2025 NYA Events
Save the Date
NYA Ski & Ride Day at Pleasant Mountain Sunday, February 9
Spring Virtual NYA Update Wednesday, March 26
NYA Reception in Massachusetts Wednesday, April 2
Lower School Grandparents’ Day Friday, May 9
41st Annual Soirée Friday, May 30
Alumni Lacrosse Games Saturday, May 31
Alumni Soccer Games Wednesday, July 30
Come Home to NYA
September 26: Edgar F. White ’38 Athletic Hall of Fame Induction
September 27: Alumni Reception and Reunion Celebrations for Classes ending in 0 & 5
Steve Morris Golf Tournament at Nonesuch Golf Club Friday, October 3
Middle and Upper School Grandparents’ Day Friday, October 17
