Acorn - Fall/Winter 2017

North Shore Country Day School

· Fall/Winter 2017

in this issue

a c o r n · Fall/Winter 2017

features 4 Strategic Planning 6 Remembering Julie Hall 12 Qui Bellows Miller ’04

depa r t men t s 2

FA L L / W I N T E R 2 0 1 7 The Acorn is published by the Marketing and Communications Department of North Shore Country Day School three times a year for alumni, parents, grandparents and friends. Its goal is to connect our School community, celebrate recent accomplishments and capture the essence of life and learning at North Shore.

North Shore Country Day School 310 Green Bay Road Winnetka, Illinois 60093 847.446.0674 Tom Flemma

Head of School

Tura Cottingham Director of Marketing & Communications, Editor tcottingham@ nscds.org Art Jessen ’70

Webmaster and Photographer ajessen@nscds.org Lauren Hernandez Communications Associate lhernandez@nscds.org Molly Ingram McDowell ’80 Director of Development mmcdowell@ nscds.org Nancy Green Whiteman ’71 Director of Alumni Relations nwhiteman@ nscds.org

HEAD’S LETTER

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ACADEMICS

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ACCOMPLISHMENTS

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DISTINGUISHED GUESTS

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EVENTS

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FA C U LT Y

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LIVE AND SERVE

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VISUAL ARTS

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PERFORMING ARTS

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AT H L E T I C S

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ALUMNI CONNECTIONS

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HOMECOMING

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P H O T O S F R O M O U R PA S T

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CLASS NOTES

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ALUMNI REFLECTION

Photographers Tura Cottingham Lauren Hernandez Art Jessen ’70 Julia Lowe ’11

Margaret Ringia Hart Design, www.mermadeart.com Graphic Arts Studio Printing, www.gasink.net

On the front cover Students cheer at the Homecoming Pep Rally.

Inside front cover Halloween Parade. Back row: Meg Pfannerstill ’24, Thomasina Kalotis ’24.

Front row: Lily Biggs ’26, Lexi Shultz ’26, Sidnie Bar ’26.

On the back cover If you have information about this photo, contact Director of Alumni Relations Nancy Green Whiteman ’71, 847.881.8848, or nwhiteman@nscds.org

Scan the Q R codes in this issue with your smart phone to access expanded content, or use your keyboard to type in the website address provided.

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h e a d’s l e t t e r

Opportunity and Gratitude All we offer our current students is a testament to the hard work, dedication and resources offered by those who came before us.

As I read the proof of this Acorn issue, I was struck by two major, intersecting themes: opportunity and gratitude.

They tie together many of these stories.

The first rings true from my own experience of seven busy months here in Winnetka. The pages to come are filled with dozens of stories relating what has been going on here on campus since the start of the School year. There are far too many to list, but they all make up the wonderful cornucopia of opportunity that North Shore students—really all members of this community—are blessed to enjoy.

As you might expect, these activities all revolve around learning, but they also reflect the elements of this place that have always been a part of a North Shore education: variety, service to others, collaboration and creativity. Interim Week, for example, is new to me. What a wonderful chance for our students to immerse themselves in a passion—or find a new one. In the other Divisions, visits to farms, outdoor ed, myriad field trips—all represent our commitment to getting our students out into the world in order to understand it in all of its magnificent, messy complexity.

1 Haniya Ghazi ’15 during Interim Week at Habitat for Humanity.

2 Richard Santi ’17, Jack Pierre ’17, Emma Flannery ’17 and Firouz Niazi ’17 at the Homecoming Pep Rally.

3 Scott and Susan Bondurant with Tom Flemma 4 Robbie Bay ’17 and Emmy Cho ’20 in the Winter Play.

5 8th grade trip to Washington D.C., front: Lola Adebiyi, back: Gayathri Sanagaram, Raven Rumbolt-Lemond, Naiyah Bryant, Claudia Fiegl, Olivia Theodosaskis, MK Caestecker.

6 Annie Epstein ’24, Tessa Adamson-Tate ’24, Alli Smith ’24 7 Buddies Olivia Kayser ’17 and Mireya Donaldson ’29

But you don’t need to leave campus to experience learning in a different way!

The core campus is eternally busy with learning and we are always reading about best practices in teaching or recent developments in brain science to make sure we are serving our students. The faculty has spent significant time this year focusing on the skills and dispositions we think our students will need to thrive in the world they will inhabit and lead. How do we prepare them for an uncertain world? How do we teach them to ask insightful questions, to sift through an overload of information and reach a reasoned conclusion? They must carry knowledge, of course, and build upon it, but they must also bring such skills to bear on the complex problems of the world. It is our duty to prepare them well and we are eager for the challenge.

That work has gone on for generations at North Shore, and I am also reminded in these pages that all we offer our current students is a testament to the hard work, dedication and resources offered by those who came before us. Liam Davis ’86, this year’s Francis R. Stanton ’27 Alumni Recognition recipient, and Susan Bondurant, our 2017 Foster Hannaford Recognition recipient, are both living examples of this truth. Susan’s years of service to North Shore spanned the full range of volunteer opportunities, and made a true impact on this place. There are few areas of North Shore life today that do not bear her fingerprints. Liam Davis travels all over the nation teaching kids songwriting, and often returns to campus to work with our students. Both of these leaders mention the North Shore mentors who helped them and honor their gifts by mentoring others, paying it forward. Qui Bellows Miller ’04 echoes the same

gratitude to past teachers and acknowledges the impact that North Shore had on her life and career path. Her work as an educator now touches a new generation and the circle continues. The strands in this web of interconnection all cross through North Shore and stand as evidence that “Live and Serve” still drives us.

Personally, I reflect that a significant portion of whatever success I am able to have as Head of School reflects the hard work and dedication of those who have come before me. I can see the bright future of North Shore because I stand on the shoulders of giants like Julie Hall.

The testimonials for Julie as a person and professional are inspiring and testament to the impact a united community and a strong leader can have on an institution.

I had the honor of meeting Julie over lunch in August, not long after I arrived in Winnetka, and I will always cherish that memory. In a short time, she was able to share with me her incisive mind, warm heart and intuitive grasp of North Shore culture. The entire North Shore community will miss her.

To these mentors, and to all of those who helped make North Shore what it is today, we owe a debt of gratitude. To me, the best way we repay them is by continuing the wise stewardship of the North Shore they loved. Whether that is through thoughtful strategic planning, wise financial planning or the careful nurturance of a community ethos of kindness, we all play our part. It is good work—the best work—and I look forward to our journey together.

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THOUGHTS ON STRATEGIC PLANNING

by Head of School Tom Flemma “Change is inevitable. Growth is optional.”

When I took this job, I was both daunted and enthused to know North Shore would embark on a strategic-planning process as soon as I hit the ground last summer.

Daunted because I knew it would mean I would need to bone up quickly on all aspects of school life. Enthused because strategic planning offers a unique opportunity to a school community. Ultimately, the enthusiasm won out: North Shore’s history of effective strategic planning was one of the many things that attracted me to the School.

I believe the introductory quote by John Maxwell. In my eyes, every truly great institution has a self-reflective gene that helps shape its approach to change.

Without it, true growth is difficult or at least sporadic. North Shore’s tradition of effective strategic planning is clear evidence the School not only has this gene but the discipline to envision, plan and implement innovative, incremental growth.

We should always be planning, of course, and we do. But a formal, scheduled planning process ensures it happens holistically and regularly, rather than haphazardly or intermittently. Process means the strategic is not overwhelmed by the quotidian.

The fruits of this work are evident everywhere on campus today and manifest in several major School initiatives: the renovation of the Science Center, Arts Center and Auditorium; transformation of the Upper School building; overhaul of the School schedule; and re-envisioning of the JK-12 science curriculum, just to name a few. Each of these initiatives found crucial institutional and financial support

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because they emerged from a thoughtful process of board-led planning. It was then up to the board, administration, faculty and staff to bring those projects to fruition in order to best serve our students. What I’ve seen through studying our past strategic plans is thoughtful, focused work that has moved the School forward in myriad ways. In short, we opted to grow and not just change.

With my fresh eyes, what I see first in our past strategic-planning work is the outcomes—both on paper and in reality.

This fall and winter, I have been lucky to witness firsthand the process by which this all happens. It has been impressive by any measure: thoughtful, inclusive, engaging and disciplined. We began the School year with a Board of Trustees retreat to reflect on where North Shore has come from, where we are and where we want to be. The frame around that first conversation—and every subsequent one—has been our students: What do they need and what must we provide them to ensure they are exceptionally well-prepared for the world they will enter and lead? We brainstormed, discussed and debated our individual and collective answers to these questions, and left the room energized for the work ahead. From that meeting, we crystallized six major elements of School life for examination.

Then the real work began. Committees rolled up their sleeves to investigate these elements, led by trustees and composed of trustees, faculty, staff, administrators, parents, alumni and students.

Over the course of several meetings, each group was charged to “think big” and to respond to some framing questions. Those discussions were rich and inspiring. The

—JOHN MAXWELL

members of the committees have happily devoted their time, talents and love of North Shore to the effort. The entire faculty and staff contributed at an early stage, responding to the framing questions and suggesting fruitful avenues for committee work. The trustees have monitored the work of the committees and asked tough questions of them. Soon, a steering committee, led by Trustee Duff Stevenson, parent of Bo ’24 and Ellie ’22, will begin the hard work of distilling and prioritizing the committee recommendations. They will craft a final document for the Board of Trustees’ approval in May. A few themes have already emerged: Pride in North Shore—our people, program and place—has been a focal point.

The imperative to continue our growth and the desire to tell our compelling story more widely have also been common topics across committees. Supporting our adults in their work, and ensuring our community is diverse and inclusive have been cited regularly. Above all, every committee reiterated our commitment to evaluating what we do and how we do it. That’s the gene I referenced above and I’m glad to report it remains operative and effective, as we have done our work.

I am eager for this planning work to conclude but then the real work begins. If we’ve done this stage right, my team and I will have a clear sense of direction for the next few years at North Shore and we can begin to operationalize the recommendations of the Strategic Plan. We will be busy but busy with purpose and direction. I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Supporting Our Students

(THE STUDENT EXPERIENCE)

Refining Our Program

How do we balance our traditional desire to provide a common, equitable experience for our students while recognizing growing pressures to differentiate among students of varying interests, abilities and skill levels?

( T H E FA C U LT Y / S TA F F E X P E R I E N C E )

(CURRICULUM & CO-CURRICULUM)

How can we identify, attract, retain, support and challenge the highest caliber faculty and staff at North Shore?

What does it mean to be a 21st Century School with progressive roots?

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Investing in Our Adults

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Celebrating Our Community

Stewarding Our Resources

(DIVERSITY & INCLUSION)

(FINANCE & MASTER PLANNING)

How can we offer, sustain and enhance a model 21st Century educational program that is accessible, affordable and sustainable?

Sharing Our Story

What steps do we need to take in order to ensure that North Shore is a diverse, inclusive, vibrant place where all are (and feel that they are) equally valued parts of our community?

(MARKETING & BRANDING)

How can we succinctly, proudly, and powerfully communicate the distinctiveness and value proposition of a North Shore education to various constituencies?

Strategic Plan categories and "framing" questions.

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REMEMBERING JULIE HALL PASSIONATE EDU CATOR , I N SP I R I N G L EAD E R , EXAM P L E FOR A L L

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She served as an English and Social Studies Teacher, Head of Middle School, 5th Grade Teacher, Academic Dean, Library Program Director and, finally, the first woman Head of School from 1992 until her retirement in 2000. She led with wisdom, heart, and a profound and visionary commitment to educating children.

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ormer Head of North Shore Country Day School Julia Lange Hall died peacefully at home on December 10, 2016 at the age of 83. She was a true friend to the School and a strong leader not only for North Shore but for many civic institutions in and around Chicago.

“As Head of School, Julie was transformative; stepping into the role at a time when North Shore was struggling,” said current Head of School Tom Flemma.

“She offered her passion, her brilliance and her optimism to the task of ensuring that the School lived up to its promise. As news of her passing spread, community members have written glowingly of Julie’s leadership, all noting, above all, that her humanity was always her defi ning trait.

Her influence is visible everywhere at North Shore.”

She graduated from Swarthmore College. There she met and fell in love with J. Parker Hall III, who preceded her in death in 2011. They married in 1956 and settled in Winnetka.

A progressive leader who dedicated her life to education, Julie was ingrained in the life of the School for 23 years. She served as an English and Social Studies Teacher, Head of Middle School, 5th Grade Teacher, Academic Dean, Library Program

Director and, fi nally, the fi rst woman Head of School from 1992 until her retirement in 2000. She led with wisdom, heart and a profound and visionary commitment to educating children.

While under her assured guidance, the School enjoyed a significant improvement in enrollment, endowment and community spirit. Julie was involved in three Capital Campaigns. The fi rst Campaign in the ’80s, “Endowing Educational Excellence,” built The Hall Library, in honor of former Headmaster and friend, Dick Hall. The second, “The Campaign for Tradition & Innovation” in the ’90s, significantly increased the School’s endowment, specifically for teachers’ salaries. And the third Campaign, “Honoring Our Past, Building Our Future” in the ’00s, built the Conant Science Center, renovated Lower and Middle Schools, and increased endowment.

She also treasured the outdoors and was an avid traveler. Julie enjoyed her extensive garden that flourished under her watchful eye. She served on the Board of Trustees at Swarthmore College and the University of Chicago Lab School. For over 30 years, she was an active member of two book clubs while participating in OLLI literature classes at Northwestern University until the age of 83.

As a couple, Julie and Parker supported other institutions they believed in through their combined philanthropic and civic involvements—such as Ravinia Festival, The Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Planned Parenthood, the ACLU and the Nature Conservancy. Honored for their service and generosity over the years, they received the University of Chicago’s Medal of Honor, the ACLU’s Roger Baldwin Award and North Shore’s Foster Hannaford Recognition.

Blessed with a limitless reservoir of curiosity, Julie was an avid reader of prose and poetry. This inspired her own innate artistry, which she expressed in essays and memoirs. Her students, children and grandchildren knew her as a spellbinding storyteller.

Upon her retirement in 2000, Julie offered the following description of North Shore. “The metaphor of the acorn on the School seal seems apropos: Over the years, North Shore has deepened its roots, spread its branches, and is sturdier and stronger than ever. For the present and for the future, this special school has so much to offer, not only to its own students, but also to others who can gain from the example we set as an outstanding educational institution.”

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ulie was a true teacher, a true educator.

She impacted North Shore—her students, colleagues and parents—in each of her roles as teacher, department head, dean and head of school. In each role, she functioned at the highest level and made her mark.

Interestingly, there are two things about Julie I have thought about most. The first, how she was able to lead, connect and partner with the best people North Shore had to offer. Whether it be our best teachers—the real stars—her fellow administrators or board members; those who seemed most impactful, those who contributed the most had this great ability because Julie partnered with them all. As I think about them, they were all very able and talented.

Yet, their relationships and connections with Julie helped make them all the better, all the more effective. She, in effect, was able to bring out the best of our best.

Secondly, Julie had a remarkable partnership with her husband, Parker. They were a powerful pair—so bright, thoughtful and invested. Each was “a force” independently and, yet, the way they supported one another, complemented one another and partnered together was an inspiration for all who knew them. Their marriage was exemplary, their commitment to family and their three great children inspiring. And professionally, they were remarkable in the ways they led and gave to so many organizations and people.

tom doar • Head of School 2000-2016

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ulie Hall is one of the best things that ever happened to NSCDS. She was a consummate educator, as teacher, administrator and Head of School. It is our great good fortune that she gave so many years of her life and so much of her energy to the school. Her enthusiasm and commitment energized students, faculty, staff and the Board.

When we had the first capital campaign for the school (“Endowing Educational Excellence”), Julie was Head of the Middle School. Half of the campaign was for endowment in support of higher faculty salaries; the balance was for the new Library and learning center.

Without being solicited, Julie and Parker pledged the largest contribution to the campaign. However, after the campaign reached its initial goal, Julie, as the greatest advocate for a great faculty, said that she and Parker believed we needed an even larger endowment for faculty salaries. Acting on that belief, they then gave an additional gift.

They wanted their gifts to be anonymous, but at a celebratory event at the conclusion of the campaign we persuaded Julie and Parker to allow us to recognize publicly the magnitude of their contributions. Julie was a dear friend whose passing leaves a real void.

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t’s hard to know where to begin to write about Julie Hall. I will begin with Julie as a human being, because all that she accomplished in her highly creative life was the product of a concern for others, and an overarching desire to support those around her. That was her character. Her cam avery caring influence permeated the 5th and Former Board of Trustees Chair 6th grades, the Middle School, the Library, the overall academic program and her headship. Loyalty was an organizing principle t was 1991 but I remember it like it was for Julie. She was a person dedicated to last week. I had been at North Shore helping others attain their goals—most Country Day School one year. I had moved my especially as they advanced the unique family up from a school in Alabama and at mission of this wonderful school known as the opening school meeting of year two the NSCDS. Yes, it is a place of wonder to so Head of School announced his resignation to many of us—most especially because the faculty. Those of us in the Hall Library Julie wouldn’t have had it otherwise. that morning still remember it. After the Julie taught us a great deal but most shocking news came the introduction of the especially that it is OK to cry. She led by Interim Head of School. I did not know her. example—in times of joy and in times of The name was not on my radar. But it did not sadness. The joy and sadness of our tears take me long to get to know Julie Hall and today reflect our need to celebrate her life realize that she saved NSCDS. and the knowledge that we no longer can How did she do it? She asked hard depend upon her presence as an anchor. questions, subjected programs to budgetary Carol and I join so many of you who miss restraint, brought in new faculty, gave existing her mightily. faculty new responsibilities and immediately embarked on a fundraising campaign (21st dick hall • Head of School 1979-1989 Century Fund) designed to raise dollars that could be used to rethink pedagogy, foster interdisciplinary cooperation and bring muchremember the summer of 1985 when needed energy to the classroom experience. several fellow faculty members—Julie In short, at arguably the most crucial among us—went to Beaver Dam, WI to moment in the School’s history since its attend a conference for women educators origins, she doubled down by investing every in independent schools. What most caught bit of herself into nurturing the School into a our attention was a session on incorporating position of strength. literature with strong female characters into I cannot fully describe how exciting it is our respective curricula. We returned to to be in the midst of a revolution, but if I campus quite inspired by these ideas and could, I would try to find some way to capture determined to incorporate some of them into that moment where in the old Laird Bell our own teaching. I remember Julie as a room Julie announced, with conviction and strong leader in our follow-up meetings to confidence, that we were going to seize make that happen. Could we ever have the moment and take the School to the predicted that Julie would, before a decade place where it belonged. ended, become Head of School?

And she did.

Most of all, I remember Julie becoming Any student fortunate enough to attend the Program Director of the Hall Library. Her NSCDS or a teacher lucky enough to work vision, along with that of Dick Hall—our there should learn about who Julie Hall was Headmaster at the time—was for the Library and find a way to model how she lived and to become a resource center for international the many, many ways in which she served. children’s literature, not only for our School Julie Hall did big things and little things but for the community at large. The two Halls, with kindness and humanity and she Lived Dick and Julie, although unrelated by blood, and Served her entire life. were very much related by their vision for All of us in the North Shore family are what the School’s new library could and better for having been in her presence. would become. How fitting that the Library should be named after both of them! kevin randolph Julie Hall was one of the reasons why Former History Department Chair NSCDS has been—and continues to be— and Teacher such a special place.

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nancy geyer christopher 8

Former Upper School Faculty and School Historian

Julie Hall, Dick Hall, Carol Hall, Parker Hall

Sharon Dole and Julie

Tom Doar, Jim DeYoung, Julie and Parker Hall, Tracey Shafroth, John Amboian

Julie was a true teacher, a true educator. She impacted North Shore—her students, colleagues and parents—in each of her roles as teacher, department head, dean and head of school. In each role, she functioned at the highest level and made her mark. tom doar • Head of School 2000-2016

Lynn Donaldson, Julie, Cam Avery

Kevin Randolph, Bluce Blair ’69

Julie in the classroom

Fittingly, we first met Julie Hall at the Magic Kingdom, as she always believed that educators and students have the power to make magical things happen, things that can transform individuals and our world. the mchugh family • Patrick, Athletic Director; Kathy, English Teacher; John ’14, Tommy ’17

Kerry Hall, Marissa Hall ’10, Riley Hall ’13, Shauna Scott

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Kathy and Patrick McHugh

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ulie Hall made many contributions to North Shore Country Day School but what will forever stand out for me is that she offered her candidacy as Head of School at a difficult time for the School. She was serving as Interim Head and none of the candidates that she had interviewed as part of the search process had particularly impressed her. The committee responded enthusiastically to her desire to become a candidate and she emerged as the next Head of School after a national search. How fortuitous for North Shore that Julie made that decision and her tenure as Head of School was totally transformative in leading the School forward.

The fact that Julie and her husband, Parker, were respected figures in the Chicago civic and business community also helped and both of them became frontline ambassadors to the broad NSCDS community.

Julie was an outstanding leader of the School and the School community. She brought that wonderful smile of hers to work every day. It was infectious and with the smile came unbounded enthusiasm. She was bright, engaged and committed to ensuring North Shore students received the best education possible. It was my good fortune to serve as Board Chair during the first four years of Julie’s 8-year tenure as Head of School. Together we tried to run disciplined meetings but there always was time for Julie to relate personal anecdotes involving students, teachers, administrators, coaches and parents. Often times her stories reflected her sense of pride in what members of the NSCDS community were accomplishing. What impressed me most was Julie’s steadfast commitment to the historic values of the School and her steady hand and confident/ collaborative style in working with her Board, department heads, parents and students.

When Julie took over, she recognized the importance of having a strategic plan for the school and was very receptive when Chris Galvin and I approached her with the concept of a 21st Century Fund that we felt could be the beginning of making North Shore truly competitive and distinctive in the world of elementary and secondary education. Julie was a woman with great foresight and she recognized the need to increase the School’s diversity and to provide North Shore students with the tools to make them truly competitive in the 21st century. She embraced the concept of the 21st Century Fund and incorporated it into the School’s strategic plan. It was the beginning of the transformation

of the School that Julie so ably led and she deserves all the credit for embracing the concept and helping Chris and me raise the money that propelled the School forward, raised the School’s brand and made North Shore a compelling educational alternative for parents and students in the years that have followed.

jim deyoung Former Board of Trustees Chair

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ittingly, we first met Julie Hall at the Magic Kingdom, as she always believed that educators and students have the power to make magical things happen, things that can transform individuals and our world. The national independent school conference just happened to be held there the year that Julie hired us. She impressed us immediately as a visionary educator who spearheaded innovation, while she maintained a commitment to North Shore’s history and its strong progressive values. Julie was, in every aspect of her life, true to North Shore’s mission and motto, modeling for us all what it means to “Live and Serve,” to be a global citizen and to embrace life-long learning. She loved both reading stories and sharing stories of her own, particularly stories about her family.

They clearly brought her so much happiness, and her devotion to and pride in them were a joy to see.

Over the years, our whole family came not only to respect and admire Julie but also to love her. She was a warm and giving person who cared tremendously about those around her. When our children were toddlers, they swiveled in her office chair while we carried on meetings with Julie. Her patience was endless. As they grew, she had them over to play their musical instruments for her, encouraging their love of music that she so deeply shared. After John went away to college, he always looked forward to having lunch with Mrs. Hall upon his return to catch her up on all of his latest travels and adventures. Her curiosity and knowledge about the world around her were amazing. Long after her retirement, we still enjoyed plays, concerts and author events with Julie.

Any conversation with Julie was sure to be full of her wonderfully interesting insights. A woman of great heart, intellect and integrity, Julie had a profound impact on our family and on the North Shore Country Day family. Her legacy will live on in so many ways.

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ommie, as all of her grandchildren call her, was a loving grandmother. When we were in Lower School, we distinctly remember going to her office in the Upper School, the most intimidating of places for a little kid, and having the room transformed into a warm and safe place by the hug and kiss of our grandmother’s greeting. From reading to us as little children as both a grandmother and, on occasion, as Mother Goose, to handing each of us our high school diplomas after our respective 14 years at North Shore, Nommie passed on to us an understanding of the value of education, which she embodied and pursued. Education to our grandmother starts at birth and never dies. Nommie never stopped educating herself and instilled in us a desire to keep learning always.

marissa ’10 and riley hall ’13

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s the first female to serve as Head of School, Julie stepped into the role with natural and instinctual ease. She was fearless in facing the multitude of challenges that were presented on a daily basis, pivoting her attentions with razor-sharp focus as she skillfully addressed the concerns of the key constituencies that governed the growth of the School. She never, ever lost sight that her position was primarily to ensure the health and well-being of the School and, from the core of that wisdom, she led NSCDS as an enlightened intellect and passionate caretaker of the School’s mission statement. She possessed an uncommon—rare—ability to be fully present and attentive with each encounter, to remain undistracted and receptive in the midst of myriad situations requiring immediate and firm decision-making. At the day’s end, her briefcase was packed with copious notes for review and reflection. Julie cared deeply and devoutly about our excellent and profound school. She was intensely grateful to the innumerable people who helped create the safe, secure and shining reputation that has sustained NSCDS from its very beginning.

sharon dole Former Assistant to the Head of School

the mchugh family Patrick, Athletic Director; Kathy, English Teacher; John ’14, Tommy ’17

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My North Shore

JOURNEY

BY QUINNETTA “QUI” BELLOWS MILLER ’04

“ North Shore is like a magnet— as you draw away from it, it draws you back.”

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Qui Bellows Miller ’04 (center) with some of her students.

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grew up on the West Side of Chicago.

My parents were hardworking—Dad worked at the post office and Mom worked as an accountant at a non-profit organization. My journey to North Shore began when my Mom was dissatisfied with the schools on the West Side. She felt the world was more than what we saw in our community. I appreciate her foresight and, to this day, honor my parents for that.

Hindsight is 20/20 and my parents made a bold and courageous decision to send me to a neighborhood not familiar to them.

When I was about 13 years old, Mom found the Daniel Murphy Scholarship Fund, an organization that provides high-school scholarships to students who are economically disadvantaged.

We went through the application process and the fi rst essay I wrote was, pretty much, garbage. My Mom said, “Qui, go back in your room and write it again to tell them your story and why this is important to you.”

I rewrote it and a month letter I got a letter in the mail fi lled with confetti announcing I had received a scholarship.

We were so excited!

Then, I shadowed several schools including one in Oak Park that was much closer to my house than North Shore. But I really liked North Shore because of the small class size, and the students didn’t feel bashful about expressing how they felt. I was in a charter school at the time and didn’t always feel comfortable showing I was kind of nerdy.

My cousin, Calvin Robinson ’99, had gone to NSCDS and had a good experience.

And when I visited as a little 8th grader, Gabrielle Hernandez ’03 and Joyce Randall ’02 said “hi” to me. Their kindness and that experience drew me to North Shore.

By the time I arrived at North Shore in 9th grade, the gravity of my parents decision settled in. I was not prepared to get up really, really early at 5 a.m. and take a bus to the Metra downtown, the train to Winnetka, and walk to school. Winters were brutal.

More difficult than that was trying to fi gure out a lot of questions. “Why isn’t our family in the same situation as Winnetka families?” “Why am I struggling academically in comparison to my classmates?” As a freshman, you are also trying to balance participation in athletics.

For me that meant late games, then getting home on public transportation, and facing a lot of homework. My fi rst year was not a fun experience.

Thankfully, there were a couple of teachers who connected with me. Beth Keegan was dean of students and a Mandarin teacher. She is an amazing person with an incredible spirit. She basically rescued me. She was so moved by what I wrote in a school newspaper that she made sure to check in with me. That meant a lot.

Beth’s support not only inspired me to write more, but to cultivate a deeper appreciation for language and its power to promote change.

The other person who I developed a relationship with was math teacher Shirley Smith. I have a lot of respect for her— she was a fantastic math teacher and very supportive. When trying to balance school and home, she saw I needed support and told me to come early for tutoring, or come in after school, and let me retake a test.

By my senior year, I learned to balance work and developed friendships. Christyn Ambrose ’04 and Rachel Cahan ’04 became close friends of mine. I also realized that I too deserved to be at NSCDS even though I didn’t live on the North Shore. And I felt a sense of belonging that I never had before.

It was during my senior year that Rachel submitted my name to be the Commencement speaker. I didn’t think it was possible. I thought they would choose a lifer. I didn’t think my voice would be significant. I was honored that my class chose me.

My speech came out of a conversation with my Mom. Like many high school teens, I was struggling with my relationship with my mother. She was the one who encouraged me to think of writing my speech as a moment of reflection. I thought of the North Shore yearbook that is called the Mirror. Initially, I looked at the School community and didn’t see myself being reflected when I was a freshman. But by the end of my four years, I recognized that I, too, was North Shore.

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Reflecting on my North Shore experience and writing my Commencement remarks was a turning point in my relationship with my mother. I realized we reflect the good in each other. It is still with me today as a teacher—I hope I can give the best from my Mom and Dad to my students.

When I went to Knox College, I thought I would major in creative writing. Then I took an education course. I say this with a bit of a smile—Dr. Vandergriff was a 60-70-year-old white dude from the Ozarks who came in the first day of class with cowboy boots, a pink shirt, belt with a big buckle and long hair. His story about how transformative education can be moved me. That’s what I saw at North Shore. That helped me put some pieces together and brought me where I am today as a teacher who believes in the transformative power of education.

North Shore gave me the ability to question things—issues of inequality, race and class—and research the historical impact of those elements on my own life as a person of color. Instead of engaging in this discourse that can sometimes be polarizing and kindle the flames of tribalism, North Shore’s commitment to

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intellectual curiosity helped me to see those issues from the lenses of reflection and most importantly, empathy. It helped me confront these issues and put myself in the place of others to see how we are more alike than we are different.

My younger sisters, Quinnita ’11 and Qinnyata ’15 also went to North Shore.

I frequently visited campus to support them and see them in plays. They are awesome young women now. Quinnyata graduated from Grinnell College majoring in theatre, and was recently cast in a role in Chicago Fire. My baby sister is at Milken University majoring in theatre as well, and is interested in production and set design for film.

After Quinnyata graduated, demands and obligations for work made it increasingly arduous to re-engage in North Shore events. But I was still in touch with English teacher Kathy McHugh. I, too, am an English teacher at the University of Chicago Woodlawn Charter near Hyde Park teaching 6th grade literacy. I talk to Kathy regularly and aspire to be the Kathy McHugh of my school. Just as Kathy lives on North Shore’s campus and is entrenched in the life and soul of her community, I too live on the South Side near my school and work daily toward

building better relationships with parents and students who imbue all the aspirations of building a stronger South Side.

Then, last year, former Head of School Tom Doar called me to ask if I would like to serve the School and become a member of the Board of Trustees. I was really honored to be asked—to be a part of that community knowledge and committed to its mission and values. But I was a bit hesitant because it would require time away from obligations at work to attend meetings. I wanted to make sure I could commit with a level of integrity. He told me I should think about it as an opportunity to do something different and to connect with passionate people.

I wanted to reconnect with North Shore and knew there is so much to learn from the people on the Board. North Shore values are important and I want to learn how to cultivate those values and commit myself to the future of the institution. My hope is to apply what I learn from my time on the NSCDS Board to schools on the South Side. What better way to learn about what it takes to maintain an institution with integrity, than to learn from those developing a strategic plan that is moving us toward the Centennial and beyond.

ac a demics

Felix Schwarzfischer ’18 with Senator Bob Dold

A Middle School student programs a robot.

Charlie Villanueva ’21 during Farm Day.

2016 Election Curriculum The best way to learn about our democracy is to participate in it. This is one of the core values of The Mikva Challenge, a non-partisan organization inspired by local philanthropist and public servant Abner J. Mikva. The goal is to educate and empower students so they can become active citizens and leaders of their community. This fall, 11th grade students in Upper School Social Studies Teacher Tim Curren’s U.S. History classes have taken on this challenge to not only learn about the electoral process but to actually get involved.

Students began the 2016-2017 school year by identifying the issues they value the most. Then, they researched their representatives in state and national government to determine if they share those same values. Finally, each student chose a particular candidate, whether an incumbent or a challenger, to support in this year’s election.

The most important step in the process asked each student to take action to support the candidate of his/her choice, with the goal of volunteering for him/her at least three times before Election Day. This typically involved manning a phone bank, doing general office work or canvassing a neighborhood. No matter what task students were asked to perform, getting out of the classroom and interacting with members of their community helped them develop the skills, knowledge and attitude to be active citizens in the future.

Taking the initiative to volunteer for a campaign can be intimidating at fi rst but Tim’s students defi nitely rose to the challenge. In their written reflections,

many shared how much they enjoyed interacting with members of their community and developing a deeper understanding of how the political process works. The work wasn’t always easy but most students found it incredibly rewarding to engage with their neighbors about issues important to their community. In the words of one student, “I loved being able to talk to people and gain an appreciation of the issues that are important to them.”

New Robotics Class This year, the Middle School added a new robotics class taught by Middle School Computer Science, Math and Science Teacher Lee Block. The idea for the class was inspired by preparing students to face the challenges of critical thinking and trial-and-error problem-solving in a new, hands-on way. In robotics, students learn how to build a robot and how to program the robot to complete a variety of tasks.

But in order to do so, the students must learn a new language.

They are learning a version of the C programming language called RobotC. Users of RobotC learn key skills that easily transition to the industry-standard programming languages used by professional engineers and computer scientists.

Additionally, students learn how sensors work and how to program a robot to use the sensors. The students are given a fi nal challenge at the end of the course requiring them to program their robot to use all parts, motors and sensors.

The Strawberry Sorter is one of the many obstacles students face in class.

They must program the robot to detect

blocks in front of it, decide what color it is and sort the “strawberries” from the other blocks. If it detects red, the item is placed in a pile on the right. If it is any other color, it is placed in a pile on the left.

Another similar, more advanced project students face is called the Golf Mower Challenge. Students program a robot to mow the lawn of a golf course without missing any grass areas, and avoid ponds and sand traps.

Farm Day On October 7, the Middle School participated in their annual Farm Day. This experiential day takes students to visit and work on organic farms in Wisconsin, including Brightenwood Apple Orchard, Larryville Gardens, Pinehold Gardens and the Eco-Justice Center. Students participate in actual day-to-day farm chores, including harvesting fall crops, weeding and winterizing.

The day was spent outdoors in work gloves and clothes that got a little bit muddy. As part of the experience, the farmers discussed with students the daily operations of their farms. Students also saw sources of many local foods, and learned about harvesting techniques, teamwork and the amount of effort that goes into the daily operation of small-scale farming. In the past, students have been able to bring back some of the harvest to school that was then prepared and served in the cafeteria.

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ac a demics

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Interim Week Each year, Upper School students look forward to a full week in November dedicated to Interim Week—an immersive, experiential-learning opportunity. The program encourages students to create, construct, explore, serve, benefit, reflect and connect. This year, students chose from more than 20 local, domestic and international offerings.

Among the local offerings, The Films for Change class spent the week fi lming, interviewing and perfecting promotional videos for local organizations such as Bernie’s Book Bank, Heller Nature Center and the Highland Park Library. Another group, Building Hope, worked with Habitat for Humanity to tear down and reconstruct an entire home. Meeting and working with the family whose house they were building and lives they were changing was rewarding for the students.

The Facing Ferguson Interim watched and researched documentaries such as 13th Amendment. “We discovered race, relations, how we perceive the world and how the world perceives us,” said Mickey Hughes ’18. In response to their reflection, they created social-media activism campaigns on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Many groups impacted the lives of children during Interim Week. Among them were the LEARN Charter School, Marillac & Rustic Falls, Children’s Home and Aid, and St. Vincent DePaul Center

programs that provided assistance with after-school, foster care, therapy and residence programs.

Build-An-Organism challenged students to create a larger-than-life Great White Shark model in the Conant Science Center. They worked with Lower School students during their science lessons for an educational and hands-on experience for both divisions.

Among the domestic trips were The Trout Bum Experience that traveled to the Smoky Mountains, where students practiced fly-fishing and embracing an outdoor lifestyle. Theatre in The Big Apple spent an enriching week in New York City, where they saw five musicals, a play, met Saturday Night Live performer and NSCDS alum Alex Moffatt ’00, met the stage manager for Hamilton, toured historic theaters and famous stages and made an appearance on The Today Show.

There were even North Shore students abroad including Frannie Block ’17 who participated in an exchange-student experience in Argentina. A group of students visited Ecuador, toured local sugarcane and organic coffee farms, and met with the Mindo Cloud Forest Organization that runs reforestation projects in a nearby community. In St. Malo, France, students attended cultural ceremonies, hiked, visited the D-Day landing site and took a French bakery tour.

And fi nally, students in Mexico learned

the rich history of Mexico City through art, nature, global influences and political experiences. By staying with host families who spoke little English, “We had to come together to break down the barriers that inherently exist when you’re with people who don’t speak the same language as you,” said Destin Teamer ’17.

1 Mexico Interim, front: Sarah Niemann ’18,

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Evelyn Gonzalez ’18, Samara Kohn ’18, Alliyah Rumbolt-Lemond ’18; back: Jed Graboys ’19, Trevor Yamada ’18, Destin Teamer ’17, Nick Kohler ’19, Thandi Steele ’18.

Students in Ecuador Sophie Hiland ’18 working with Habitat for Humanity.

Chicago’s Memorials and Monuments Interim group at the “Pillar of Fire.”

Ecuador Connor Watrous ’17 and Pressley Smith ’18 in New York City.

Theatre in the Big Apple Interim.

Chicago’s Memorial and Monuments students Kevin Terhaerdt ’17, Henry Probft ’19, Ward Madigan ’19, Jonathan Ramirez ’20, Justin Hartley ’19, Emily Cho ’20.

Trout Bum Experience students Sofia Belabbes ’20, Elizabeth Goldish ’17, Sarah Lumberg ’17.

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accomplishmen t s

William Murnighan ’17

Emily Lubin ’17 “Outside the Box”

National YoungArts Foundation Award

girls were selected to be included in the conference based on their interests in international issues and leadership.

Young Leader Presenters

Model United Nations

Ella Ristic ’21 and Anna Ristic ’22 were selected to be the Young Leader Presenters for the International Women’s Forum conference in Chicago. Over 1,000 people representing 45 countries attended the conference. Ella and Anna presented the “Women Who Make A Difference Award” winners with recognition plaques. The

It’s been an active fall for North Shore student Model United Nations delegates.

On November 5, 14 Upper School students participated in the St. Ignatius Model UN in Chicago, where Rachel Block ’19 represented Chile in the UN Office for Drugs and Crime, and received an Honorable Mention award for her work in the committee.

On November 16, Middle School Model UN participated in the Northern Illinois Model United Nations at the Chicago History Museum, where two North Shore William Murnighan ’17 was recently students received awards and recognition. awarded Honorable Mention by the “Outside the Box” Sophie Green ’23, representing Italy, was National YoungArts Foundation.

Emily Lubin ’17 started working on an named Outstanding Writer. Conor Fryer Selected through a blind adjudication “Outside the Box” beautification project ’21, representing Angola, was named process conducted by an independent last summer when she visited Sun Valley, Outstanding Delegate among his large panel of highly accomplished artists, the ID and was inspired by a similar project committee. It is the highest recognition a 2017 Winners represent the top 8.67% there.

Her mission is to transform the delegate can receive. of applications and include 166 fi nalists utility boxes in her hometown of Evanston, Upper School Model UN students out of 693 winners, the organization’s into eye-opening displays of public art. spent the weekend of December 8-11 highest honor.

Emily asked downtown Evanston, at the Chicago International Model This year’s winners represent the Barnes and Noble, and First Bank and UN Conference (CIMUN) where they nation’s most promising young artists in enhanced their understandings of global the literary, visual, design and performing Trust to sponsor her fi rst box. She began arts. It was the largest pool of applicants to the program with the utility box outside of issues and international relations. Ten students represented NSCDS among 1,000 date and represented artists from 42 states. Barnes and Noble in downtown Evanston as a pilot for many more to come. She students from over 50 schools. It was a wrapped the box in a photograph of the competitive environment where the North lakefront by local artist Ted Glasoe, who Shore delegates did very well. is known for his lakefront scenery work, Jack Pierre ’17 was recognized as the with the intention of tying the artwork Outstanding Delegate for his performance to the city itself. as the Secretary of State in the US Cabinet The junior plans to continue the (2016). Firouz Niazi ’17 was recognized as “Outside the Box” project, eventually the Best Delegate for his performance as fi lling Evanston with many more. She the Minister of the Interior in the German hopes that business districts will Cabinet (1994). sponsor their boxes to reflect the unity and uniqueness of the neighborhoods.

Neighbors have noted that Emily’s project has been one of the most popular publicart projects done in a long time.

Anna Ristic ’22 presents award.

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Firouz Niazi ’17 and Jack Pierre ’17

dis t inguished gues t s

Dr. Devorah Heitner

Alan Gratz

Karen Jacobson

Lauren Bondy

Raising Digital Natives The Parents’ Association hosted a parenteducation program on September 26 featuring Screenwise: Helping Kids Thrive (and Survive) in Their Digital World author Dr. Devorah Heitner. The founder and CEO of Raising Digital Natives shared practical advice from her latest book on how parents can plug into their children’s changing media landscape and thoughtfully guide kids in the digital age.

Devorah has a Ph.D. in media/ technology/society from Northwestern University. She has lectured widely and taught at DePaul and Northwestern University. Her keynotes engage audiences with fresh insights about digital natives, communication across the generations, growing up in the digital age and how to cultivate a culture of responsible digital citizenship.

Jim, Sarah ’17 and Traci Lumberg

Lessons from Mt. Everest

Danielle Black

Author Alan Gratz

Board of Trustees Chair and North Shore parent Jim Lumberg shared lessons from his journey to the summit of Mt. Everest with the entire school at a Morning Ex on October 26. With his trek to the top of the world’s highest mountain last May still fresh in his mind, he related lessons he learned that apply to students as well: 1. Set big goals. 2. Make a plan.

3. Anticipate setbacks. 4. Build a team.

5. Know it will be difficult. 6. Enjoy the journey. 7. Stay committed.

His presentation was packed with dazzling photos detailing every stage of his experience. In the end, all felt they had experienced Mt. Everest as well, and expressed their appreciation with a long and enthusiastic standing ovation.

Young-adult author Alan Gratz visited campus on December 8 to share his experiences and stories about three of his books with the Middle School.

Alan introduced himself with a childhood anecdote that took place when he was about the age of the students he was addressing. He described his incapability to play any sport, despite growing up in a family full of athletes.

Instead, he loved stories. Even at this young age, he knew he wanted to be a Understanding Anxiety writer, and his supportive dad didn’t in Children push him to do something he didn’t love.

Alan wrote his fi rst book when he was in From bitten nails and stomachaches 3rd grade: The Mummy vs. The Vampire. to all-night study sessions, kids display Though his mom wasn’t a fan of this their anxiety in a variety of ways. On story because “fi ghting is wrong,” Alan October 17, Dr. Danielle Black helped recognized all good stories need confl ict. parents differentiate between normal Now, his books are in the Scholastic worry for children, teenagers and young Calm Parenting Book Fair and North Shore’s Hall Library. adults as they face the pressures of school, Once again, the Parents’ Association’s He fi rst spoke about his bestselling book, sports and socializing, and more severe Parent Education Committee hosted a Prisoner B-3087. Alan gave the Middle anxiety symptoms that may be signs relevant and meaningful program, Schoolers a summary of the story, which of a larger issue.

“Becoming the Calm Parent You Want to followed the true-life events of a Holocaust During the program sponsored by the Parents’ Association Parent Education Be,” for North Shore parents on November survivor named Jack. Though he said that writing this book was difficult, he added, committee, she also explored how anxiety 3. Karen Jacobson and Lauren Bondy of Parenting Perspectives led the presenta“the world needs to hear this.” He shared can be turned into something positive tion and discussion that helped parents photos of Jack with the Middle School, to help kids become successful. Danielle recognize when they are frustrated with too, and introduced two other books is the director of child, adolescent and their children, they are not at their best. he’s written. family service and the director of the Karen and Lauren have 20 years of Alan closed with a Q&A session, mostly Child Anxiety Clinic at The Family experience working with families and addressing students’ questions about his Institute at Northwestern University. shared strategies to help remain calm, choice in content. He answered that he She is also a clinical assistant professor set limits and manage the power struggles loves history, but also has a talent of in the Department of Psychology at all parents have with their children. adding his own personality and action.

Northwestern.

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3rd graders sing their new song.

Playing for Upper School chorus students.

Writing a song with the 3rd grade.

Erik Almquist ’85, Liam Davis ’86, Colm Davis ’89

Liam working with Middle School music composition students.

dis t inguished gues t s Liam Davis ’86 Receives Stanton Recognition During Homecoming Reunion Weekend held September 23-24, Liam Davis ’86 was presented with this year’s Francis R. Stanton ’27 Alumni Recognition by Alumni Board President Jeff Foreman ’80: “After graduation from North Shore in 1986, Liam attended Kenyon College, graduating in 1990 with a Bachelor of Arts in Music. He first moved to Boston, where he worked as a musician/puppeteer for The Underground Railway Theatre, helping to bring educational theatre to young audiences. His interest in music as a singer and guitarist led to a trek across Europe and several years of touring the United States, making music on and off the stage. He knows and understands every aspect of music performance, production and recording. He also is experienced as a graphic designer across all media as well as integrated-marketing communications with a specialization in non-profit and educational markets.

“Liam is a two-time Grammy nominee and achieved critical acclaim as one of the songwriters in Frisbie, whom Salon.com called ‘one of the best, most ambitious pop bands in America.’ Liam works as a composer, producer, engineer, educator and nationally touring musician. He recently earned his first Broadway credit as Willy in the New Victory Theatre’s production of The Mysterious Hat. Liam has produced and written music for TV and film for over a decade while developing cultural-arts programs to teach language arts and social-emotional learning— through songwriting—to students of every age throughout the country. His work with children’s musician Justin Roberts has garnered seven National Parenting Publications (NAPPA) Gold Awards, and eight Parents’ Choice Gold Awards.

“His commitment to giving back has been nowhere more apparent than at North Shore where he served as a member of the Alumni Board and has provided Morning Exes, worked with students conducting songwriting workshops and one-on-one mentoring for North Shore’s Interim Week. He is the brother

of Sydney Almquist Jackson, class of 1981, Erik Almquist, class of 1985, Colm Davis, class of 1989 and the son of the much-revered former faculty member John Almquist.

“His impressive career and passion for music, education, entertaining and teaching in the lives of children and adults, exemplifies the School motto of ‘Live and Serve.’ North Shore County Day School proudly presents the 2016 Francis R. Stanton Alumni Recognition to Liam Davis.”

After thanking the Alumni Board, North Shore and “everyone this weekend who has been so kind and welcoming,” Liam shared the following refection.

“I’m deeply honored to receive this recognition, as every endeavor I’ve undertaken in my life to date has been in whole or part thanks to this institution and its community. My siblings and I grew up here—North Shore was like a second home to us. The education we received was comprehensive, interdisciplinary and—as I’ve come to find out—unlike that of any of my peers. When I entered college, not only was I more prepared than any of my fellow students, but I soon realized that the thing repeatedly referred to as “Liberal Arts” by the front-office brass of said college was the thing in which I’d already been immersed, right here on this campus.

“It has been gratifying to return.

Yesterday, I spent the day working with students in classes, spending some time with faculty and getting a chance to meet Tom Flemma. It’s clear to me that the same value system from which I benefited is in place now—just as it was well before I came to campus as a junior kindergartner—a value system that prioritizes the experience of the students, while also challenging them to think about ways to serve their communities.

“In addition to my activities as a touring musician and producer, I have used songwriting as a vehicle to enhance existing classroom studies and deepen students’ connection to what they are learning. When I did a songwriting Interim Week here in 2010, there was a

student, Joel Hylton ’13, who showed particular promise: he has a singular voice and a unique approach to the craft. Three years later, I did a one-on-one Interim with Will Curren ’15 (a faculty-brat like myself) who showed aptitude for, and wanted an immersive experience of, music production. Today, the two of them are studying music at Columbia, collaborating, and we meet occasionally to discuss their newest projects. As a mentor to them, it has been particularly satisfying for me to be able to both acknowledge my failures—and communicate failure not as an occupational hazard but as an inevitable part of growth — and to celebrate their successes. This connection, to me, is an example of the particular magic of North Shore Country Day. “Reflecting on my own failures and successes, I am grateful every day to people like: Helen Turley, who taught me to read; Julie Hall, who encouraged my first creativewriting efforts, however shaky; Mac McCarty and Jay Bach, who espoused all the lessons inherent to team sports and allowed me to play football as a Raider (still some of the most fun I’ve ever had); Vin Allison, for suggesting—out of the blue—that I try out for the Opera, and for his commitment to community singing; Carol Radloff, for never letting me slide by on talent; Roger Shipley, who showed me the meaning of the phrase “always use the right tool for the job;” Bill Goss, who demonstrated, through chemistry, that problems are merely opportunities; Michael Conroy, for steering my musical taste in a more interesting direction—at exactly the right time; George Mitchell, who gave me gainful summer employment and took me seriously, even though I was just a kid. Val Fallarme, for his remarkable patience and positivity, and for showing me the importance of a good backhand; Dorothy Biel, who’s become a trusted member of our extended family; and John Almquist, who not only was the best teacher and parent anyone could hope for, but was just the smartest, coolest guy on earth. He would’ve thought this was pretty great. Thank you.”

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events

Previous Hannaford Recipients. Seated: Stephanie Formolo, Mary Pick Hines ’49, Alice Graff Childs ’37, Jane Deuble, Claudia Lane, Gwen Jessen ’76; Standing: Tom Formolo, Cam Avery, Tracey Shafroth, Jim DeYoung, Susan Bondurant, Mary Ann Finlay, Rory Finlay, Morton Lane, Howard Jessen, Jay Bach, Art Jessen ’70

Susan Bondurant Receives Foster Hannaford Recognition On October 19, North Shore’s Board of Trustees hosted the annual Hannaford Recognition event to acknowledge leadership donors to Annual Giving 2015-2016, Heritage Society members (those who have designated North Shore in their estate plans), and this year’s Hannaford Recognition recipient, Susan Bondurant.

This recognition is named in honor of Foster Hannaford who served as a member of the Board of Trustees for 48 years and as a Trustee of the School Foundation for 35 years. It was initiated in 1985 and is conferred annually upon a person or persons who demonstrate distinguished service to North Shore Country Day School.

Head of School Tom Flemma read and presented the following to Susan.

“Susan Bondurant believes in education, believes in schools and believes in North Shore Country Day. It would be difficult to fi nd a portion of North Shore today without Susan’s fi ngerprints. Susan and her husband Scott are the parents of Brooke, class of 2013, and Cara, class of 2016. As parents they always extended themselves personally to connect with fellow parents, students, teachers and

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staff in meaningful ways. Committed to serving the School, Susan brought her personal touch and marketing background to bear as an active leader in the Parents’ Association and Benefit Board Auctions.

“Susan joined the Board of Trustees in 2005 and made significant contributions to many committees, including Finance, Communications, Committee on Trustees, Strategic Planning and, most recently, the Head of School Search Committee. She was and is a committed fundraiser— strategist, solicitor, giver and getter.

“From her very fi rst day as a trustee, Susan exhibited an unusually high level of knowledge, awareness and insight into schools—their purpose, their values, how they impact and empower young people.

She was wonderfully consistent about asking “Why?” and brought true discipline to discussions. As a result, Susan was a key factor in improving North Shore’s strength and reputation, even during a time of significant leadership transition.

As fellow Board Chair Tom Formolo shared, “In her years as Board Chair, Susan gracefully navigated her role as parent within the context of being Board Chair. Her passion, energy and unique ability to engage and enlist have served the School very well.”

“As Board Chair, and only the second female Board Chair in our history, Susan led and deepened North Shore’s commitment to continual self-assessment through regular strategic planning. While valuing North Shore’s traditional strengths and enduring values, she always pushed herself and others toward innovation and improvement. As a strong leader, she respected and engaged others, very skillfully balancing the immediate agenda with a long-term strategic vision.

“All of these qualities ensured that Susan would be a remarkably effective Board Chair.

She continually asked questions that helped focus and frame issues; she engaged and supported others; listened to all sides and clarified vague concepts. Susan’s commitment to what was best for North Shore was understood and appreciated by all constituent groups—students, faculty and staff, parents and alumni—because she connected well with them all. People like and respect Susan because they know she cares about them, their well-being and the School.

“Working with the Head of School is one of the primary roles of a Board Chair, and former Head Tom Doar sings Susan’s praises.

“Susan was a wonderful partner to the Head of School. She was able to be present,

Clarke Devereaux, Katie Devereaux, Betsy Schroeder Hough ’85

Katrina Wolcott Kelley ’43, Cece Ewen Durbin ’67, Lucy Sievers ’80

Jim Lumberg, Tom Flemma, Susan Bondurant, Tom Doar

Lee Block, Therese Block, Jennifer Sheffler, Tony Sheffler

focused on recognizing many in the room to support and to challenge. Never and thanking all for the acknowledgement. comfortable with ‘same old, same old’ “Receiving this recognition has enabled yet very respectful of North Shore’s me to reflect on the past 16 years, and history and culture. Susan was wise what made the School so special to me and approachable, demanding yet very that I wanted to spend increasing amounts supportive. Unusual combinations. She of time here. Those reflections centered steered the School through Head of on three areas, people, opportunities for School and Board leadership transitions personal growth, (for students, for adults and successions with awareness, vision, discipline and a high level of partnership, and for me) and my appreciation of the “independent” part of independent schools. proactively reached out to become “People: I’m so fl attered to be recoginformed about leadership transition nized in this way and to be included with ‘best practice,’ and supported and a group of people whom I respect so much challenged the Head and the Board.

(I’ll call them the Hannafordians) and Susan kept us focused, helped make us many of whom I’ve gotten the privilege aware and was supportive in positioning to know and learn from. things so that North Shore was at its “I’ve been the recipient of much wise best working through those challenges counsel and want to thank the people and opportunities.” who had confidence in me and pushed me “Susan has always been a strong, when at times I was reluctant to take on compelling and visionary leader and leadership roles. motivator. She personally connects “In general, I was always struck by the with and empowers others, challenging informality of the community that is all around her to give their best. She refreshing and present from Day 1; people embodies all that Foster Hannaford accepting and gracious, not judging… stood for because she gives, gives and gives—modeling ‘Live and Serve’ for all.” very personal engagement.

“Opportunities: I’ve been involved in After accepting the recognition, many aspects of school life. I started my Susan delivered thoughtful remarks involvement at North Shore shelving

books in the library; my mom was a librarian and I like books and the quiet suited me well.

“When I became involved with the Benefit Board, we had a very large auction catalog and for some reason I became a writer and then signed on to co-chair the auction in 2008.

“And, yes, as I have said before, 2nd grade room parent was the toughest job in the School.

“Then, I became a trustee about 10 years ago and, again, there were opportunities for me to grow and collaborate with others.

People had the faith in me to take on some leadership roles. I saw things progress over a longer arc of time (areas where I was fortunate to be involved but saw the work of others).

“Independence: I like the ‘independent’ part of independent schools. I think it’s great we are a place where participation is required at a time that specialization is in vogue; committing to small when there is pressure to grow; enabling teachers to have some curricular flexibility or sharing their outside expertise.

“Once again, I am deeply honored by this recognition.”

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events “If These Walls Could Talk” The John Almquist Gallery fall show titled, “If These Walls Could Talk,” was a snapshot of NSCDS student experiences and explorations as they wrestle with big questions and take pleasure in small moments. The interdisciplinary and interdivisional exhibition featured a wide array of art materials such as oil, water, text, clay, recycled canvas and digital media.

The title also referenced what exists both within and beyond the physical campus. Walls can be barriers, closing off new experiences, or can incite curiosity, wonder and defiance. They can divide or enclose, promoting separation or unity.

By including recovered stories, unfinished narratives, overheard voices, the beginnings of dialogue and acts of service, the hope was to catalyze discussion and invite close looking.

Homecoming 2016 North Shore’s annual Homecoming and Alumni Reunion Weekend was action-packed; student athletic games, alumni visiting and reunion celebrations attended by students, parents, faculty, alumni and parents of alumni. More than 250 alumni and friends were welcomed to the September 23-24 weekend receptions, programs, games, tours of campus and reunion dinners.

Alumni were treated to a Saturday morning program where they met new Head of School Tom Flemma. Upper School English Teacher Kathy McHugh and Middle School Humanities Teacher Susan Schinleber highlighted the School’s program to build global partnerships through the Facing History Program.

The morning program concluded with the second annual Alumni Sing-along led by Susan Stetson ’72 and several NSCDS students.

In addition, Liam Davis ’86 received the 2016 Francis R. Stanton Recognition that acknowledges alumni whose lives through their career or volunteer activities reflect the School motto of “Live and Serve.” Liam spent a day on campus meeting and working with students and faculty. (See story on page 21.)

Alumni who are North Shore Iron Raiders were recognized during the football game at halftime. Jay Bach,

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Head of School Tom Flemma and Athletic The generous support from all who pledged Director Patrick McHugh greeted each or made a gift is greatly appreciated. Your gift of those present. impacts every student.

Are you an Iron Raider? An Iron annie aggens ’88 Raider is a North Shore Country Day bill ake ’88 School Alumnus/a who participated in 12 kelsey andersen ’06 full seasons of Upper School athletics at any steven arenson level. It can be a combination of sports and karen arenson levels but must represent a full season of jay bach sports for every season of a four-year high cathy bell bartholomay ’79 school experience at North Shore. If you are bruce blair ’69 an Iron Raider and have not been recognized, benjy blenner ’02 please contact Nancy Green Whiteman’71 karen block ’09 in the Alumni Office. cori chandler

Lunch in the Loop Parents, alumni, parents of alumni and friends attended the fall Lunch in the Loop program on November 17 at the Union League Club in Chicago. The event featured a presentation on North Shore’s Food-Education Program, Farm-to-School: How North Shore is Transforming Food Education on Campus. Head of School Tom Flemma provided a School update followed by the program speakers, Upper School English Teacher and Director of Service Learning and Community Service Drea Gallaga, and Chef Nate Willis of HandCut Foods. The next Lunch in the Loop program will be held on April 12, 2017.

World Series Celebration It’s not every day that the entire school including students, faculty and staff gather to form the letter W on the athletic fields. But as Acorn readers around the world surely know, it’s a command performance when the Chicago Cubs win their first World Series in 108 years!

The photo was posted on the School’s Facebook page causing “likes” to the page to jump 4% in less than two weeks. In addition, more than 16,200 people saw the post making it the School’s most viral post to date.

Fall Connectathon Thanks to more than 50 alumni, parent, faculty and staff volunteers who made calls and wrote notes during the School’s Annual Giving Connectathon in November. Their outreach to hundreds of people helped keep alumni, parents and friends informed and connected.

sarah cody ’04 jackie cotter tura cottingham cece ewen durbin ’67 tom flickinger jeff foreman ’80 katie freiburger ginny george tom geraghty ’62 nancy goldberg naomi hattori ’02 betsy perkins hill ’70 stacy hunt ray hylton elizabeth ingram ’82 joan palm johnson ’57 mervat kalil dean kanellos charlene kittredge janie koster amanda macejko tom macejko ches manly ’89 suzanne folds mccullagh ’69 ciara mcdonagh ’90 quinneta bellows miller ’04 melissa mizel eileen murdock craig niemann ted notz ’53 scott olson ’79 georgia pappas blasko ristic lisa mcclung ristic ’87 sarah geist rosen ’86 carrie scharbo hilary bishop scott ’96 jeannie lea scully ’63 alex silets ’87 susan stetson ’72 madeline tank ’11 alice pirie wirtz ’49 andrew wood ’90 nina yoo

Marisa Marillo and Carrie Scharbo

Parents Mervat Kalil and Janie Koster

Elizabeth Goldish ’17, Elise Adu ’17

“If These Walls Could Talk” exhibit

Celebrating the Cubs’ World Series Win.

North Shore community members at the Homecoming Gallery Opening.

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facult y Faculty Profile: Carmen Gomez-Fiegl

happening with the borders in the European Union and what Germany is doing for them. I think this is something we all should know about.

Q. What was your role?

WORLD LANGUAGES D E PA R T M E N T C H A I R A N D U P P E R S C H O O L S PA N I S H TEACHER CARMEN GOMEZFIEGL SHARED WITH UPPER SCHOOL STUDENTS DURING X - D AY O N O C T O B E R 2 7 , H E R F I R S T- H A N D E X P O S U R E OF HOW GERMANY IS SUPPORTING REFUGEES.

Q . Why were you invited to Germany?

A. I am lucky enough to go to Germany

every summer as my husband works for SAP, an international software company with headquarters in Waldorf. Last summer, I met a professor at the University of Heidelberg who was engaging in the refugee crisis and who was, at that time, in charge of training teachers to teach German to this new population. He had a group-study meeting in September to assess teachers’ practices dealing with refugees. He gave me the incredible opportunity to attend this meeting.

A. In that initial group-study meeting, I sat and listened about the difficulties the volunteer teachers faced while teaching German to refugees. They come from many different countries–Somalia, Iran, Iraq, Syria, Afghanistan and Pakistan are just a few examples. To begin understanding a new alphabet is a huge effort for them that takes very long, let alone learning grammar and vocabulary. What the Germans are seeing is they are teaching German very theoretically and by-the-book in the classroom versus having them experience language in real-life context in this new country. Refugees do not get a job until they speak German so teachers were trying to find strategies to accelerate the process of learning the language. I felt very connected to the lives of these volunteer teachers and it made me think a lot about how we do things at North Shore.

At that meeting I was actually very proud of our immersion program as we try to have our students face real, authentic life situations so I shared a few ideas with them.

In addition, I visited a refugee camp in Heidelberg that was a former American military base. I talked to a few citizens from Somalia and that was a very important moment because I could see the cruel reality for many of them, which is that, after a long journey of difficulties and struggles, they might not be able to get asylum in Germany. If a person’s country is not considered “at war,” they have to Q . What are the goals and expectations have an interview with the government to you had? decide whether they can stay in Germany A. Have you ever experienced that feeling or, sadly, be deported. I spoke to a few people who had been interviewed and of being ostracized, self-centered and worried about your own “important” prob- were very anxious to find out about lems and, at the same time, feeling terribly their futures. guilty knowing that there are real strugLast, I visited an apartment complex gles out there? There are more than one where refugees lived in a small city close million refugees staying in Germany and to Frankfurt. I got to know a married coumore than 60 million people in transit ple that was going to have their first baby, all over the planet. This new “diaspora” who were journalists and had actually is going to demographically change contibeen able to create a networking newspanents and I want my students to be open per for the refugees. There, I saw that to knowing about it. I also personally in-between moment of young people wanted to know more about this. I wanted beginning their new lives in Germany, to see the refugees’ pilgrimage, their jourwho could already speak German, and ney, what countries they cross, what is who were ready to find a job.

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Q. What did you learn from this experience?

A. Coming back, I had an immense sense

of gratitude, not only for things I have personally–my family, my health, my warm house… all these basics things–but I was very grateful to have the educational environment we have at North Shore, the small community and the flexibility to create new curriculum. I have been able to design and put a new unit into practice and bring all my experiences to my students who are extremely interested and curious about the struggles these people are facing.

Inclusion is something we really need to have present in our lives. These refugees may never return home, so, wherever we are, our duty is to open up to the idea of our countries being a “new home.” On a big scale, that is the U.S., the E.U., the German government, but also small communities. I think there is an opportunity to learn from integration in our spaces. Unfortunately, we live in a part of the world that is so eager and driven to find success, and we think the only way to success is finding the right college, the right job, the right house ... I don’t think we can continue living under that limited perspective any more. We have to start opening up our hearts and including people, and we have to start doing that with the ones we have next to us in the middle of our days and communities.

I learned that my mission as educator is not just teaching my students Spanish. It is related to helping them think twice of what their responsibility as young adults is and to gain the skills to be empathetic leaders in the future. I do not think that our students will be prepared to live and succeed in this new world by just thinking about their own individual goals any more. They can, but it will not lead to fulfillment and happiness.

Q. What are your next steps?

A. I presented during the X-Day on civil

discourse in October, I did a follow-up session with an engaging group of students and three of them asked me what they could do to help.

I have done research and found that Heartland Alliance in Chicago is working with refugees, specifically with children that have lost their parents, and they need volunteers there. So we are thinking of creating a new service opportunity for North Shore students. I am also considering designing a class called “ethical citizenship” or “an ethical approach to small communities,” where we can really talk about what it means to be a current citizen of this country and of the world.

In those days, Kathy never dreamed the Wall, the miles of mine fields, tank barriers, guards and watchtowers would disappear.

Kathy and her husband returned last summer with their pictures of Berlin prior to the fall of the Wall. They spent five days wandering the streets comparing before and after views and hunting for signs of the Wall. Kathy says it is “impossible to pick favorite moments but highlights of the trip included the Brandenburg Gate, the East Side Gallery, Kathe Kollwitz’s Neue Wache, the Reichstag and the Holocaust Memorial, Checkpoint Charlie and hours viewing the people and soaking up the energy in this vibrant capital city.”

Libby Ester’s Global Grant

Kathy Irvin Receives Louis Conant Fund Grant

Fifth Grade Teacher Libby Ester received an NSCDS Global Grant to create a storytelling unit in her 5th grade language arts/social-studies classes. While most Global Grants are used to travel and further studies abroad, Libby wanted to use hers toward advancing a unit she previously worked on in class.

As a participant in North Shore’s Global Cohorts program, Libby had taken trips to learn about globalization and global learning in classrooms at places such as the American Red Cross and Growing Home in Milwaukee. Once her Cohort experience was complete, she began planning the “Square Stories” workshop she envisioned for her class. The idea is modeled off of Danish Author Lee Jensen’s Hans Christian Andersen awardwinning Square Stories, which are short, numbered anecdotes that cover only about a 4-inch area of the page over the span of 100 pages.

She began introducing these Square Stories to her classes at the end of the day, and students became attached to the storylines and recurring characters quickly. A unit eventually formed for students to write their own Square Stories.

Libby is using her grant to create a twoday workshop with two guests who are key components in bringing the stories to life.

Lise Kildegaard, who translated all of Lee Jensen’s original stories to English, will help the students develop storytelling skills. Then, former NSCDS Drama Teacher Lynn Kelso will visit to help students act out their stories. Libby plans on holding the workshop in March and appreciates the School’s commitment to global learning and professional development, allowing her to be rejuvenated even in her 14th year at North Shore.

Early Childhood Director and Junior Kindergarten Teacher Kathy Irvin was the 2016 recipient of the Louis Conant Fund.

This fund was created by the Conant family, in honor of their son Louis who was a member of the class of 2011, to provide teachers with travel experiences.

Last July, Kathy and her husband Bob traveled to Berlin fulfi lling a 36-year dream to return to this transformed city.

The last time they were in Berlin was the summer of 1980, chaperoning a church youth group on a four-week trip through Europe.

FutureWise Kathy’s connection with Berlin began in 1961 when her father exchanged Over the summer, faculty and staff all churches with a German minister and her picked up the same book to read: FutureWise: family moved to Neuwied on the Rhine Educating Our Children For A Changing World River for two years. During that time, her by David N. Perkins. The reading touched on parents became involved with the East many of North Shore’s standards, such as 21st German Christian community as the last century skills and dispositions; renewed, loophole in Berlin closed the week after hybrid, and less familiar disciplines; interdistheir arrival. ciplinary topics, global perspectives, problems After 1963, her family returned to and studies; and having a choice of what to Germany almost every year to travel to learn. The book addressed pressures of East Berlin and East Germany to support “common core” standards, high-stakes testing Pastor Reinhold Schmidt and his church and the underlying question of what today’s community. Most often they crossed at learners will really need to know in the Checkpoint Charlie or by train. Her parfuture that teachers face often. ents carried all kinds of items into the At the opening meeting of the 2016-2017 east including information, money, coffee, school year, teachers from all divisions, clothing and bibles. During Kathy’s teen including division heads, deans, assistants years, her father took youth groups from and School staff gathered together and broke Kenilworth Union Church to the east out in small groups to apply lessons from block countries, always with a stop in FutureWise to the North Shore community.

Berlin to connect with Pastor Schmidt’s This generated conversations that otherwise youth group. After crossing the border, would not have happened across all areas they would wander East Berlin streets of the School. The focus ranged from methoduntil slowly and at great peril to themologies to civil discourse, understanding selves, teenagers would join the strategies for teaching critical thinking to Americans. Visits often ended at waraddressing big questions, disciplines to wounded Marienkirche, St. Mary’s Church, content areas and curriculum-design skills to listen to her father and Pastor Schmidt that make the most of learning across the speak about keeping hope alive and to sing years of education. songs like, We Shall Overcome.

a c o r n · Fall/Winter 2017

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facult y Professional Development Sarah Walsh, Middle School humanities Christine Ritchey, Middle School teacher, attended a one-day workshop learning specialist, will attend the on “Service Learning: Moving from Learning and the Brain Conference Ideas to Action (K-12)” conducted by the on The Science of Student Learning Independent Schools Association of the in San Francisco.

Central States.

Claire Birkhauser, 3rd grade teacher, attended the SLANT Advanced Seminar Lynsey Wollin-Casey, assistant head Series, a multi-sensory reading of Upper School and Upper School French teacher, and Chris Boyle, assistant intervention program. head of school and academic dean, Dana Specht, 8th grade social attended a workshop on Seeking Cultural studies teacher; Lee Block, Middle Competence in Hiring: Strategies for School computer science, mathematics Attaching & Retaining Faculty & Staff and science teacher; and Susan Schinleber, for the 21st Century sponsored by the 8th grade English teacher, received a Independent Schools Association of the Summer Curriculum Grant to revamp Central States. the 8th grade Identity Project.

Annie Collins, JK-12 Science Brian Frederick, 6-12 mathematics Department head and Lower School department head, and Dayle Block, science teacher, and Libby Ester, 5th grade Upper School math teacher, received a Summer Curriculum Grant to create the teacher, attended and presented at the new Advanced Functional Analysis course.

Annual Conference of the Independent The entire faculty completed American Schools Association of the Central States.

Heart Association CPR training.

Their presentation highlighted the 5th grade Design unit.

Becky Corrigan, Upper School biology teacher, and Drea Gallaga, Upper School David Green, 3rd grade teacher, attended the Third Coast International English teacher and Upper School director Audio Festival Conference to support of service learning and community service, his ongoing work with 3rd grade received a Summer Curriculum Grant to Audio program. develop the new cross-disciplinary course The entire faculty worked as a whole Food: Science, Systems and Society. and then by Divisions with Steven Susan Schinleber, 8th Grade English Zecker, PhD on advancing their work teacher, received a Summer Curriculum with students with ADHD. Steven is a Grant to develop the new Middle School member of the Northwestern University Public Speaking course.

Communication Sciences and Lee Block, Middle School computer Disorders Department. science, mathematics and science teacher received a Summer Curriculum Grant Ellen Rasmussen, 4th grade teacher; to develop the 7th Grade Computer Jim Leesch, Middle School computer Science curriculum. science and mathematics teacher; Joan Julia Macholl, performing arts Ryder, Upper School chemistry teacher; department head and Upper and Middle Drea Gallaga, Upper School English School theatre teacher received a Summer teacher; Molly Ingram McDowell ’80, Curriculum Grant to revamp the Middle director of development and Tura School Acting curriculum.

Cottingham, director of marketing and communications attended the 2016 Jim Leesch, Middle School computer CUSP conference held at the Museum science and mathematics teacher received of Contemporary Art featuring 25 Summer Curriculum Grants to develop speakers talking about design across the new 6th grade Computer Science artistic, educational, scientific and curricula and the Advanced 6th grade public-service platforms. mathematics course.

Kristin Sumner, assistant librarian, Ship Safford, Upper School social attended the Illinois School Library Media studies teacher, attended the “Teaching Association Conference as well as the about the 2016 Elections: Preparing Young Adult Literature Conference.

Students for Political Engagement” workshop at the University of Wisconsin, Madison campus.

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Debbie Youderian, Lower School counselor, attended a workshop on ODD, ASD, ADHD & Mood Disorders through PESI. Ceil Scanlan, reading and learning services department head and Upper School learning specialist attended the Excelencia in Education conference in Washington, D.C. which focused on better supporting Latino students in their education.

Jason Giffen, director of admission, attended the Enrollment Management Association Annual Meeting in Baltimore, which is the largest gathering of independent-school enrollment professionals and provided collegial sessions on Lower School admissions assessments, Inbound Marketing, and Equity/Access.

Mullery Doar ’06, associate director of admission, attended the Enrollment Management Association Admission Training Institute in Baltimore for early career independent-school enrollment professionals.

DIVERSITY CONFERENCE

Four faculty members attended the 2016 National Association of Independent Schools’ People of Color Conference in Atlanta, GA in December. The theme this year was “Advancing Human and Civil Right—Fulfilling the Dream Together.”

In addition to faculty, six students participated in the Student Diversity Leadership Conference (SDLC) held at the same time in Atlanta. The student program is a multiracial, multicultural gathering of upper school student leaders (from across the U.S. SDLC focuses on self-reflecting, forming allies and building community.

Faculty attending were Terri Webb, Upper School counselor; Yun-Chu Chen, Middle School Mandarin Teacher; Anya Leist, 1st grade teacher; and Laura Hsieh, Upper School visual art teacher. The students were Elise Adu ’17, Evelyn Gonzalez ’18, Carlo Castellanos ’18, Thandi Steele ’18, Alliyah RumboltLemond ’18 and Mia Askew ’19.

Vanessa J. Molzahn Beloved Upper School Math Teacher Vanessa J. Molzahn, passed away on August 17, 2016. In her 17 years at North Shore, she also served as Math Department Chair and as a Middle School Math Teacher. But more than her titles, Vanessa was passionate about her students and teaching. She was thoughtful, insightful and caring. She led numerous Upper School Interim Week groups to Heartland Animal Shelter in Northbrook. She is greatly missed. Vanessa is survived by her husband Jamie and her son Chris ’18.

“Vanessa cared, really cared, about her students, her colleagues and the School.

There was no “halfway” with Vanessa. What was right, was right, what needed to be done, needed to get done. Rarely, does one find a person so committed to making a difference in and out of the classroom as Vanessa.

While in her last years at North Shore she was an Upper School teacher and a critical Upper School presence, in her early years at the School she was an equally impactful Middle School presence. Vanessa was a wonderful colleague—she cared, connected and invested in others. Vanessa remained a teacher to the end. She handled the challenge of her illness in a manner that inspired and continues to inspire all of us.

Vanessa—a teacher to the end and beyond.”

tom doar • Head of School 2000-2016 “My son was blessed to have Vanessa as his advisor throughout high school. Vanessa brought out the very best in Sam; she understood his talents and always believed in him, even when others—including Sam— did not. She was his advocate, confidante, mentor, ally and friend. While Vanessa was passionate about education and an extremely talented teacher, her true gift was her ability to see the possibility in every child. Her presence and wise counsel will be missed within our North Shore community.

Susan Matejka Mother of Hannah Bottom ’13 and Sam Bottom ’16

“Mrs. Molzahn is a once in a lifetime kind of person. She left a footprint on my heart that is unique and can never be filled by somebody else. She used to tell me “worry only about the big things and appreciate especially the small.” The collection of precious moments I shared with Mrs. Molzahn will forever have an impact on my character; although she liked to see the world numerically, I see her value as infinite. I love you, I miss you, and I promise to never forget you. “

debbie newmark ’15

“Mrs. Molzahn is someone who I will always remember as a teacher, but more importantly as a person and a mentor. Not a day went by in class when she did not have a smile on her face and a positive attitude in hand, which ultimately rubbed off on the whole North Shore community. She not only wanted her students to succeed but she wanted her students to believe in themselves and their abilities—that is something that will stick with me forever. Mrs. Molzahn’s unwavering kindness and politeness is something that is missed dearly by all.”

jamie swimmer ’15 To say simply that Vanessa was “all in” when it came to teaching somehow doesn’t capture the magnitude of her commitment.

Vanessa saw the world through the eyes of a teacher from morning until night. Her love of math was known to all as was her deep commitment to her students. She supported students with both compassion and candor, which is why they so readily understood that she was in their corner through thick and thin.

dave potter • Upper School Head

Mrs. Molzahn was one of the most flexible and caring math teachers whose class I had the privilege of being in. What made her a special teacher was not her kindness or her positive attitude, but her natural ability to find the things that connected her to other people. Mrs. Molzahn would always check in with me to see how my brothers were doing.

Oftentimes, I did not really know what they were up to, but her care and interest in other people reminded of the importance of checking in with others and thinking about their well being.

Vanessa was compassionate and had faith in people. She believed that we all have the destin teamer ’17 capacity to grow throughout our lives, to share and learn with others, and to find joy in what we do. For her, those things were all connected and, additionally, central to who she felt we are and should be at NSCDS. She was a strong advocate for what she believed in, and we all benefited from that advocacy.

lynsey wollin-casey Assistant Upper School Head Upper School French Teacher

a c o r n · Fall/Winter 2017

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live and serve

Bill Davis ’65 and his wife Anne

The Gift of Music Bill Davis ’65 Bill Davis ’65 vividly remembers his years at North Shore and is especially fond of those when he was singing. Those memories and his appreciation for his NSCDS education prompted him to make a planned gift to the School. After conversations with Director of Development Molly Ingram McDowell ’80, Bill chose to direct his planned gift toward North Shore’s music programs, equally divided between The Vincent B. Allison Fund and The Frank Wallace Fund for Performing Arts. Each is named for beloved faculty members and is part of the School’s endowment.

The Vincent B. Allison Fund was established upon his retirement in 1986 as the School community responded enthusiastically to acknowledge him in support of music programming and the School’s commitment to the arts. This fund provides for JK-12 music programs, such as musicals and chorus concerts, as well as faculty support.

The Frank Wallace Fund for Performing Arts was established in 2013 by an anonymous alum donor. This man fondly recalled the tremendous impact and value of his teacher, Frank Wallace, and his commitment to a North Shore education, and the importance of performing arts within North Shore’s

30

educational foundation. This fund also serves students in JK-12 providing funding for plays, musicals, dance performances and chorus concerts, and faculty support.

“One who attends NSCDS, leaves the place with many blessings,” Bill remarked.

“I began my tenure in 2nd grade. I have felt the impact of North Shore, and its motto upon my life, (in addition to the education; the team sport influence; and the friends). The School’s next greatest gift to me was music. From 2nd grade, I remember music was a part of our lives each day. A recorder became my fi rst musical instrument to play. We sang in music class, for our parents, in Morning Ex. In 5th grade, my mother dragged me off the baseball field so I could learn piano—I took lessons for three years, and while I failed music theory, I did learn to read music. By Upper School, I was singing in every production Vin Allison (Director of Music, 1952-1986) offered. It was a joy to sing the Messiah, Christmas music, Gilbert & Sullivan and so much more. Initially, I sang in the University Choir at Sewanee—University of the South—and, last year, I joined 150 singing alumni commemorating the retirement of Sewanee’s choirmaster.

In between, I have had the joy of singing in church choirs and community choral groups—the greatest opportunity was

singing Beethoven’s 9th Symphony, 4th Movement with the Milwaukee Symphony.

“NSCDS has given me the knowledge and joy of our ‘universal language,’ and therefore, it is my joy to return its lifetime gift to me by ensuring others will have the same opportunity. My gift will be one realized way down the road, but as we know, music is eternal and God is patient.”

North Shore is sincerely grateful to Bill for his generous commitment and dedication to North Shore Country Day, as a member of The Heritage Society.

He has remained connected with the School in many ways including as an active alumnus, reunion leader, event participant, loyal and generous donor to Annual Giving, and member of The Decade Society recognizing those who have contributed to Annual Giving for 10-consecutive years or more. Bill is a wonderful example of living by North Shore’s motto of “Live and Serve” for current and future generations of Raiders.

If you would like further information about North Shore’s planned-giving program and membership in The Heritage Society, contact Molly Ingram McDowell ’80 in the Development Office, 847.441.3316; mmcdowell@nscds.org.

Northwestern Settlement House

Field Hockey Cancer Research

Book Fair

Second from left, NSCDS parent Sylvie Legere recruited friends to volunteer at Misericordia.

Northwestern Settlement House Holiday Drive 2016 Every year during the holiday season, the spirit of giving is palpable and visible at North Shore Country Day School as students, parents, faculty and staff join together to sponsor families being served by the Northwestern Settlement House.

This organization supports children, families and seniors in Chicago’s West Town community. NSCDS participates in the Northwestern University Settlement House’s Emergency Services Program through their Holiday Basket Program.

The program provides Christmas presents and food for families who are struggling fi nancially.

This year, the North Shore faculty and staff sponsored one family. The adults in these families are often working full time or more than full time and still not earning enough to support their children or parents. Sometimes, families must choose between buying food and paying rent, or between having enough money to afford a warm coat.

The drive is organized by the Upper School Community Service Club. Each advisory is paired with one or two other advisories, and then are assigned a family.

Together, the groups learn their family’s story and take responsibility to see that every family member is adequately provided for. The day after all the items are collected, the Upper School has a packing party and spends the afternoon securely packing and wrapping the gifts and food in boxes to deliver to the Settlement House.

PA Book Fair The Parents’ Association held their annual Book Fair on November 7-10 to raise funds for the School’s Hall Library.

All students, faculty, staff and parents were invited to shop the sale featuring books for all ages and interests.

Thanks to the countless volunteer hours and planning by the committee of Susanna Ver Eecke, Trish Thomas and Amanda Macejko, and to all the volunteers. Sales this year increased 2% over last year, totaling $18,707 raised for the Library.

the cause meant more than ever as the School community and students’ families were touched by this disease (see story on Vanessa Molzahn on page 29). The teams sold “Real Raiders Wear Pink!” shirts as well as an assortment of baked goods and wore their shirts at games and matches to promote awareness.

Parents “Live And Serve”

In September, the Parents’ Association “Live and Serve” Committee arranged for interested parents to volunteer at Feed My Starving Children, where they handPlay for the Cure packed meals specially formulated for malnourished children. These meals are Players and coaches of the NSCDS sent around the world where they are girls’ volleyball, tennis and field hockey served in orphanages, schools and health teams received lots of support from the clinics. The North Shore parent volunteers School community as they kicked off the packed 57 boxes of food, which is over “Play4TheCure” and “Dig Pink” cancerawareness initiatives in October this year. 12,000 meals.

On December 13, the Committee Play4TheCure and Dig Pink are fundraising platforms for the National Foundation organized a service event at Misericordia, a for Cancer Research that provide funding residential community that supports worldwide to enable cutting-edge research people with developmental disabilities. in hopes of fi nding a cure for cancer. Both They helped make some sweet treats by scooping cookie dough, making brownies organizations inspire young athletes and and packaging baked goods that are sold in their teams to leverage their passion for the Misericordia bakery. sports to play for loved ones affected by cancer, and encourage students to actively participate in funding cancer research to make a difference.

For the fi rst time, these three sports teams came together to achieve a goal and learn the importance of giving. This year, a c o r n · Fall/Winter 2017 31

v isua l a rt s

Sophia Wall ’23

Amy Muslin ’17

Brenna Cotter ’22 Ava Prezant ’21

Ava Farhat ’16 Kamryn Deveny ’19

Jenna Wyman ’17

Tori Blair ’19

Allie Charnas ’20

Quinn Devereux ’25

Senior kindergarten Olivia Whitmore ’19

Ethan Buckner ’24

Emma Smirl ’20

perfor ming a rt s Winnie the Pooh

Winter Chorus Concert

The Upper School presented Winnie the Pooh on October 21-22.

Based on the book by A.A. Milne and adapted for the stage

by Kristin Sergel, Winnie-the-Pooh is Christopher Robin’s fat little “bear of very little brain” who would like to drift peacefully through life, humming tunes and stopping frequently to eat “a little something.”

North Shore chorus students from all three divisions participated in the annual Winter Choral Concert. They first shared their performance with the entire school at Morning Ex, before presenting a evening program for families.

However, he finds himself involved in all sorts of frantic adventures, assisted by such friends as the dismal Eeyore, Piglet and Rabbit, and with his countless relations. Pooh’s intentions are always the best, but his passion for honey and condensed milk keeps getting him into trouble. When friend Piglet gets roped into Kanga’s household and Kanga starts bathing him (with soap!) and forcing down spoonfuls of “Strengthening Medicine,” Pooh wants to fly to the rescue, but he’s had so many snacks he gets stuck in the door.

The students sang both separately and together, even in different languages. Their performance included songs that encompassed winter customs and traditions from around the globe.

The fall play was produced by special arrangement with The Dramatic Publishing Company of Woodstock, IL.

The Winter Celebration brought the week before break and the last time that the School community would gather together in 2016 to a close. It started with introductions by the Lifers dressed up as Christmas characters, followed by Tommy McHugh ’17’s reading of “’Twas The Night Before Christmas.” Then the dancing began!

Several traditional dances for the various holidays celebrated this season were performed by different grades paired up together.

The final dance of the celebration was the Hokey Pokey, a tradition performed by the seniors and their JK/SK buddies.

Lower School Holiday Program

To send the students off for Winter Break, the alumni, faculty and staff sang together, Winter Wonderland.

The School was treated to a premiere of the Lower School Holiday Program shortly before Winter Break. Grades JK-5 performed by singing, dancing and playing various instruments. From square dances to xylophones, this heartwarming show also included celebratory music from across many different cultures. The Lower Schoolers repeated the performance just for their parents.

Lower School Chorus

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Sofia Baumann’18, Amy Muslin ’17, Mazeed Oluewu ’19, Emma Flannery ’17. Firouz Niazi ’17, Rachel Block ’19

Lily Aiston ’29, Caleb Jackson ’19, Jenna Forrest ’29

Upper School Winnie the Pooh Meg Pfannerstill ’24

Clark O-Bryan ’19 Middle School Chorus

at hle t ics Fall 2016 Sports Season Wrap-up This fall, North Shore athletic teams competed in over 250 athletic events.

At the varsity level alone, the School participated in or hosted over 115 contests. In head-to-head competitions, varsity fall teams were 57-34-2, a winning percentage of over 60%. In conference, varsity teams were slightly better winning 25 of 39 contests, a winning percentage of 64%.

There were 32 students named to all-conference teams, 2 ISL Athletes of the Year–Katie Glew ’17 and Xas Morgan ’20–and two coaching staffs named ISL Coaching Staffs of the year–field hockey and volleyball.

Fall All-Conference 2016 V O L L E Y B A L L Kali Pfannerstill ’20, Caroline Rice ’19, Anna Roszak ’19 F I E L D H O C K E Y Hannah Fortier ’17, Jessica Hourihane ’18, Allie Charnas ’20, Xas Morgan ’20, Julia Fortier ’20 and Abby Renaud ’19 G O L F Peter Miles ’18, Will Dart ’18, Ethan Cantor ’18 and

Will Madigan ’17 T E N N I S Alex Arenson ’19, Alex Gold ’17, Lauren Kaplinsky ’17, Claudia

Hayward ’18, Edith Edwards-Mizel ’20, Meredith McCabe ’19 and Rachel Schapiro ’18.

F O O T B A L L Bernie Sander 17, Jack Mangel ’18, Briggs Wright ’17, Thomas McDowell ’18, Pierce Hourihane ’17 and Evan Airey ’17 S O C C E R Kevin Terhaerdt ’17, Andrew Conlon ’17, Brad O’Connor ’18 and Andrew Potter ’17.

ISL Girls’ Cross Country Runner of the Year Katie Glew ISL Field Hockey Player of the Year Xas Morgan ISL Field Hockey Coaches of the Year Mullery Doar ’06, Alyssa Dudzik, Rachel Cahan ’04, Madeline Tank ’11 and Julia Price ’10 ISL Volleyball Coaches of the Year Froy Reyes, Kelly Dietz, Jordan Holod, Jen Pfannerstill

Cross Country Girls’ and boys’ cross country competed in 14 meets this fall. The girls’ highlights were their highest fi nish ever in the IHSA Regional of 2nd and 12th place fi nish in the Sectional. For the second year in a row Katie Glew ’17 won the Independent School League meet, won the regional and qualified for the Girls’ State Cross Country Meet. The boys’ team fi nished 5th as a team in the Independent School League, 4th in the IHSA Regional and 15th in the sectional.

Tommy McHugh ’17 became the fi rst North Shore boy in 10 years to qualify for the Boys’ State Cross Country Meet–the last person was Shaun Teamer ’07 whose youngest brother Destin ’17 was also on the team this year.

On November 5, Katie and Tommy competed in the IHSA State Meet at Detweiller Park in Peoria. Katie came in 20th out of 214 competitors, completing the course in 18:10, and earning All-State honors for the second year in a row.

Tommy came in 40th out of 209 competitors, completing the course in 15:47, the fastest time ever for any NSCDS runner over that three-mile distance.

Field Hockey The always-strong NSCDS field hockey team had their best season in 20 years. 16-5 overall for the season, they won the Independent School League for the 3rd year in a row and the 8th time in nine years. Due to that performance, Hannah Fortier ’17, Jessica Hourihane ’18, Allie Charnas ’20, Xas Morgan ’20, Julia Fortier ’20 and Abby Renaud ’19 were named to the all-conference team. Xas Morgan was also named ISL Player of the Year and our coaching staff of Alyssa Dudzik, Mullery Doar ’06, Rachel Cahan ’04, Madeline Tank ’11 and Julia Price ’10 were named ISL Coaches of the Year. But that was only the start. Raider field hockey won their fi rst elite-8 game since 1996 and advanced to the state fi nals taking eventual-state-champ Lake Forest High School to OT and then falling to Glenbard West in the 3rd place game. For that, they earned their fi rst state trophy in 20 years.

With a huge group of returners, this team has an exciting future.

Football

Kali Phaknnerstill ’20

Caroline Rice ’19

For the second year in a row, the football team played in the Great 8 conference—an 8-man football conference based in Wisconsin. The team started the season 3-0 and then lost the next 3 games as injuries took a toll on the team.

Six players earned all-conference recognition: Bernie Sander 17, Jack Mangel ’18, Briggs Wright ’17, Thomas McDowell ’18, Pierce Hourihane ’17 and Evan Airey ’17. This was the 98th year of football at North Shore.

Golf For the 10th year in a row, the North Shore varsity golf team were champions (or co-champions) of the ISL. This year, they lost to Latin during the regular season by 4 strokes then came back in the conference tournament to win by 8 strokes, solidifying another title.

Four players earned all-conference designation: Peter Miles ’18, Will Dart ’18, Ethan Cantor ’18 and Will Madigan ’17. Peter Miles then advanced to the State Tournament for the fi rst time. Only losing one senior, this team also has a promising future.

Bernie Sander ’17, Thomas McDowell ’18

Briggs Wright ’17

Alex Arenson ’19

Katie Glew ’17

Soccer The boys’ varsity soccer team was expecting a re-building year after losing the strongest soccer senior class ever. But this young team proved they could compete well going 9-7-2 for the season including 3-2-1 in conference.

They were the Notre Dame College Prep Tournament champions and in the post season went to double overtime in an emotional loss to Sullivan High School. Four players were recognized as all-conference: Kevin Terhaerdt ’17, Andrew Conlon ’17, Brad O’Connor ’18 and Andrew Potter ’17.

Tennis Girls’ tennis had one of its strongest seasons in recent years going 8-6 overall and 4-2 in the conference. They fi nished 3rd in the Independent School League and had 7 players get all-conference recognition: Alex Arenson ’19, Alex Gold ’17, Lauren Kaplinsky ’17, Claudia Hayward ’18, Edith Edwards-Mizel ’20, Meredith McCabe ’19 and Rachel Schapiro ’18.

Volleyball Varsity volleyball also had one of their best seasons in years. They were 14-8 overall on the season with 5 of those 8 losses going to 3 games. They were 2-5 in conference but 3-1 in the conference tournament. For their strong improvement, the coaching staff of Kelly Dietz, Jen Pfannerstill, Jordan Holod and Froy Reyes were voted ISL Coaches of the Year by the Independent School League. Also three athletes, Kali Pfannerstill ’20, Caroline Rice ’19 and Anna Roszak ’19 were named to the all–conference team. The volleyball team will lose no starters to graduation this year, so next year could be even better. Sadly, Head Coach Kelly Dietz after 6 years of leading the team will be moving to California.

Thank you Coach Dietz!

Kevin Terhaerdt ’17

Will Madigan ’17

Xas Morgan ’20

a lumni connec t ions Alumni Cheer on Blackhawks North Shore alumni cheered on the Blackhawks to victory at the annual alumni event held on November 6. Alumni ranging from the classes of 2016 to 1958 met for a pre-game gathering at the United Center with Head of School Tom Flemma. The evening included Rocky Wirtz ’71 and the Blackhawk organization providing a very special tribute for the World Series winning Chicago Cubs followed by an enthusiastic singing of Go Cubs Go by everyone in the Madhouse on Madison.

Centennial Prep—Tag! You’re It! In preparation for the School’s Centennial in 2019-2020, North Shore alumni, parents of alumni and former faculty gathered together for an archives photo-tagging event on November 20 in the School library. Archivist Melissa D’Lando provided an overview of the NSCDS archives and taught the group how to electronically tag photos. Currently, there are more than 23,000 scanned images in the School’s archives photo gallery.

Additional tagging events will be held. Everyone is encouraged to help and you can even tag from the comfort of your own home or come in to volunteer in the Archives Office. To learn more, contact Nancy Green Whiteman ’71 in the Alumni Office, nwhiteman@nscds.org; 847.881.8848.

December Young Alumni & Faculty Events Two annual young-alumni events were held on December 16.

College-age alumni returned to campus to visit for a morning breakfast, and to see faculty and students. Following the breakfast, they attended the all-school Holiday Celebration in the Mac Gym joining faculty to sing Winter Wonderland, the traditional finale part of the program.

Later that evening young alumni gathered at Tommy Nevins Pub in Evanston to enjoy a time to visit, catch up with each other and see a number of faculty.

Alumni-in-August Gathering The Young Alumni Committee held a fun gathering at the Derby Bar & Grill in Chicago on August 11 that more than 35 alumni attended.

Thank you to the many alumni who participated with a gift to annual giving that the committee organized as part of the evening!

Committee members who planned the event include Jordy Blenner ’09, Karen Block ’09, Michael Creatura ’11, Ashleigh Cross St. Peters ’05, Kelsey Andersen ’06, Sarah Cody ’04, Benjy Blenner ’02, Meredith Price ’07, Julia Price ’10, Genevieve Nielsen ’10, Morgan Peters ’11, Lisa Doi ’09, Madeline Tank ’11 and Jake Kann ’12. The committee is working on other ideas for more young alumni events. Interested in being a member of the committee? Contact Nancy Green Whiteman ’71 in the Alumni Office at nwhiteman@nscds.org, or get in touch with a member of the committee.

Tom Flemma and Tony Kramer ’58

Alumni-in-August Gathering

Sharon Dole, Michelle Angeles ’16, Abel Angeles

Cece Ewen Durbin ’67, Larry Aggens

Peggy Smith Coffee ’90, Claudia Lockhart, Mary Pat Cross, Patti Bach

CLASS OF 2001. Liza Rodin, Alexis Halper, Haley Birnbaum, Amelia Kegan, Jay Webster

C L A S S O F 1 9 7 1 . Seated: Peter Jefferson, Bill Stern, Lee Barker Savinar, Annie Leimert. 2nd Row: Ann Howard Hanna, Bob Jordan, Michael Rudman, John Stern, Alison Hurd Tompkins, Maggie Parsons Nichter, David Bragman, Robbi Dehlinger, John Ayer, Rocky Wirtz, Nancy Green Whiteman.

3rd Row: Kathy Dole Elmer, Curtis House, David Dobkin, Philip Fortune, Bucky Marshall, Rob Rogers

C L A S S O F 1 9 6 6 . Front Row: Barbara Bulger Drake, Hub Stern, Ginger Foltz Lincoln, Jane Drake Piechota, Campbell Stanton, Leigh Schweppe Buettner, Mitchell Dalton Ward, Bill Fowle, Sara Greeley Fortescue-Webb.

Second Row: Ann Mullins, Jo Atkinson Topping, Anne Pugh McManus, Barbara Kaufman Welanetz, Bruce Jarchow, Peter Garrison, Bob Butler, Bob Wilcox, Gail Barber Sykes, Tap Merrick

Class of 1986. Bruce Peters, Paul DeWoskin, Sean Wilken, Christy Aggens, Sarah Geist Rosen, Stephanie Britt, Rebecca Andreou Sabri, Nelson Repenning

Tom Flemma, Alice Graff Childs ’37, Bill Bartholomay ’46

Betsy Loomis Norton ’59, Ted Notz ’53, Dee Dee Ritch Starrett ’51

Carla Esch ’46 and Tom Pick ’48

Lynsey Wollin-Casey, Madeline Tank ’11, Emily Gaud ’00, Frank Dachille

a lumni connec t ions Children and Grandchildren of Alumni North Shore is proud of our alumni connections, most especially those current students, pictured here, whose parents and grandparents are alumni.

R O W 1 Gabriel Rosen (Sarah Geist Rosen ’86), Thomas Scott (Hilary Bishop Scott ’96), Samuel Rosen (Sarah Geist Rosen ’86), Devin Todd (Katie Todd ’96), Payne Wood (Andrew Wood ’90), Margot Ake (Bill Ake ’88), Bronwyn Wood (Andrew Wood ’90), Daisy Stone (Jennifer Stone ’82) R O W 2 Margie Blair (Bruce Blair ’69), Hadley Ake (Bill Ake ’88), Buckley Oelerich (Cy ’89 and Molly Shotwell Oelerich ’87), Dixie Oelerich (Cy ’89 and Molly Shotwell Oelerich ’87), Razaan Ghazi (Rashid Ghazi ’85), Lottie Ake (Bill Ake ’88), Cece Norton (Christine Griffin Norton ’87) R O W 3 D.J. Healy (Denis John Healy ’91), Katie Karmin (Peter Karmin ’83), Ella Ristic (Lisa McClung ’87), Anna Ristic (Lisa McClung ’87), Jibraan Ghazi (Rashid Ghazi ’85) R O W 4 (right side): Vivien Hough (Betsy Schroeder Hough ’85), Abby Renaud (Lisa Paul Renaud ’85), Allie Charnas (Chris Charnas ’83); R O W 5 Trevor Yamada (Virginia Miller Read ’29), Haniya Ghazi (Rashid Ghazi ’85), Julia Doyle (Neil Flanagin ’48), Thomas McDowell (Molly Ingram McDowell ’80), Andrew Karmin (Philip Karmin ’80), Will Karmin (Peter Karmin ’83) I N S E T Dustin Karmin (Peter Karmin ’83), Colin Norton (Christine Griffin Norton ’87) N O T P I C T U R E D Tori Blair (Bruce Blair ’69)

40

Homecoming & Reunion Weekend Save the Date! September 22–23, 2017 2017 Reunion Committees Forming CLASS OF 1942

CLASS OF 1982

Liz Price Hunt

Marjorie Bransfield Elizabeth Ingram Jennifer Stone Bob Vieregg

CLASS OF 1947

Pete Henderson CLASS OF 1952

Steve Edwards CLASS OF 1957

Joan Palm Johnson CLASS OF 1962

Tom Geraghty CLASS OF 1967

Wick Loomis Blasi Cece Ewen Durbin Eliza Howe Earle Patty Missner Johnson CLASS OF 1972

Phyllis Beattie Susan Stetson Bob Stibolt CLASS OF 1977

Bob Elisha

CLASS OF 1987

Chris Avery Bill Bach Lauri Reagan Harris Molly Shotwell Oelerich CLASS OF 1992

Michaela Murphy CLASS OF 1997

Hillary Wirtz CLASS OF 2002

Benjy Blenner Naomi Hattori Kate Rooney CLASS OF 2007

Committee Pending CLASS OF 2012

Grace Flickinger Jake Kann Morgan Peters

If you are interested to serve on your class reunion committee, contact Director of Alumni Relations Nancy Green Whiteman ’71, 847.881.8848; nwhiteman@nscds.org

pho t os from our pa s t “A picture is worth a thousand words” and tells an important and interesting story. If you can identify any of these photos or tell us a story about them, please contact Director of Alumni Relations Nancy Green Whiteman ’71, 310 Green Bay Road, Winnetka, IL 60093, nwhiteman@nscds.org or call her at 847.881.8848.

cl a ss notes

1930s

1960s

the Milford Track. They often visited her brother at his ranch in Colorado, and they twice visited West Africa when their son was living there. On her own, she travelled to the Amazon in South America, the Galapagos Islands, East Africa and Sanibel Island, FL. She loved double acrostics, puzzles and Scrabble. Shortly before her death, she played a vigorous game of Scrabble using many unusual and creative words. Volunteering was an important part of her life, and she gave many hours to the Leland Yacht Club, Miriam Fetcher Steel ’33 led a full and rich National One Design Racing Association, life. She died peacefully at her home in Reading for the Blind, the Women’s Williamstown, MA on September 14 at the Exchange, the Clark Institute and the age of 101. When she was a young child, Williamstown Library. She is survived she and her family lived in France and by her husband, former faculty member Switzerland for three years, where she Bill Steel; son William “Biff” Steel ’60 became fluent in French. They returned (wife Adwoa); daughter Nicki (Polly) to Winnetka, where she graduated from Steel ’65; grandchildren Anim (wife North Shore Country Day School in 1933.

Sarita); Melissa King (husband John) She attended Smith College and graduated and two great grandchildren, Amina in the class of 1937. After college, she and Mireya King. earned her Masters in Education at the Graduate Teachers College of Winnetka, where she also met her husband of 76 years, William W. Steel. They lived in Sallie Welsh VanArsdale ’40 reports, “We Winnetka from 1946 until 1966, when enjoyed summer in Northfield and were they moved to Williamstown, MA. From pleased to meet the new Head of School 1938-41, she taught at the Village and at the Homecoming reunion dinner.”

Farm School, Glencoe, IL and St. Petersburg Country Day School, FL. Dick Golden ’44 wrote, “I had the pleasure

Liz Ames ’61 was sorry she wasn’t “able to attend my 55th NSCDS reunion. I was traveling in Eastern Europe. I am greatly enjoying retirement while playing my cello in the Glen Rock Pops Orchestra and volunteering to help asylum applicants as president of the Northern New Jersey Sanctuary Coalition. Traveling and gardening, and seeing friends and family also make life full and satisfying.”

Nancy Brown Jones ’33 was featured in a Daily North Shore News article that highlighted her 100th birthday and life.

Nothing can tear her away from her gym routine—not even her 100th birthday.

Nancy, a lifelong athlete, keeps her mind and body in shape through workouts at the Winnetka Community House and regular bike rides. On top of her Iron Raider spirit, this consummate NSCDS alum is a talented musician dedicated to community service.

1940s

They also had a strong connection to the Leelanau Peninsula in northern Michigan.

Miriam’s first summer there was in 1919 at her family’s cottage, Forest Lodge, on Long Lake, where they also held their wedding. In 1947, they started spending their summers in Leland, MI, and continued to do so until 2013. Miriam loved the outdoors, especially wildflowers and birds. She remained an enthusiastic walker, loved sports and was an avid golfer into her 90s. Even in her 80s, she and Bill were known for riding their bikes to the Leland Country Club and being the first ones on the course. At age 93 she would compete in a women’s putting contest and often win. When asked how she could do so well at her age with limited vision she replied, “I pretend I’m Tiger Woods.”

to meet the new Head of School Tom Flemma last October. I’m happy to report that North Shore is in good hands.”

Wendy Smith Buchen ’47 states, “I operate in slow motion with my trusty walker.

When I go on family trips I get demoted to a wheelchair which we rent from ‘Wheels for Feet.’ Most of my correspondence is done on the computer.”

Marianne Neuses Hartnett ’49 writes,

“Spending most of our time in Florida this year—Hope to be in Illinois (Northbrook) from June to October 2017—maybe!”

1950s

Dee Dee Ritch Starrett ’51 attended her reunion in the fall. She shared, “It has been two years since Ward passed away Starting in her 60s, she began to travel, and I have moved from Wayne to a lovely both with Bill and on her own. They often small house in Mundelein. I am 15 travelled to France and also made two trips minutes from my daughter and am to New Zealand where, at age 71, she hiked enjoying my new life.”

44

Diane and Tom Geraghty ’62 were recognized on September 23 at the UNICEF Midwest’s sixth annual Chicago Humanitarian Awards. Since meeting at Northwestern Law School, where both represented children in juvenile court as part of the University’s legal clinic and devoted their careers to children’s law and rights. In Chicago, Diane is a professor and director of Civitas Childlaw Center and Tom is a professor and director of Northwestern’s Bluhm Legal Clinic, but their dedication to their work has taken them to Africa and Asia, where they served as UNICEF consultants regarding children’s legal rights.”

Barbara Bradford ’66 wrote, “Thanks to Bubbles—our best class representative in 50 years. Jack and I are both retired, he from writing and professorship, and me from law and world travels in senior management. We divide our time among Florida, Washington area and Cape Cod. Still in touch with friends from NSCDS. Life is good.”

Fred Croft ’67 shared, “Laurie and I leave in December for a ‘walkabout.’

Everything’s in storage except what we need to drive around the country for a year: golf clubs, fly rods, bikes and a map.”

Carolyn Jarchow Haggerty ’69 has seven grandchildren including recently arrived twins.

Brad Williams ’69 visited Alice Marshall Vogler ’69 at her home in Florence, Italy

and also in the last year Jill Witte Dillon ’69 made a visit to see Alice in Italy.

1970s Doug Frohman ’72, Inspiration Arts LLC, was one of 10 artists featured in a holiday exhibit at the Matthew Rachman Gallery “Peace on Earth” that ran from November

Ned Jessen ’73

Nancy Brown Jones ’33

Joel de la Fuente ’87

Nicki (Polly) Steel ’65 between Bill and Miriam Fetcher Steel ’33

4-December 30. The works selected from the different artists were chosen for their aesthetic value and giftable nature. “Doug Frohman’s 12"x 12" oil on wood pieces pack a solid punch despite their small size.

He especially enjoys the rich dialogue that results when dynamic works from different artists are exhibited together.

The aim of this Holiday exhibit is to feature works - both sophisticated and approachable - that make the gift of giving or owning an original work of art an affordable reality.”

distinguished service as chair of the Finance Committee to your persistent pledge to preserve the long-term financial health and sustainability of the school, your efforts have yielded tremendous results: The Academy is stronger than ever. Throughout your terms of service, you have fostered a culture of inclusion and collaboration among your colleagues, while delighting everyone with your quick, dry wit. We thank you for your vision, wisdom, advice, and perspective as we move the Academy forward. And, we are ever grateful for the passion and enthusiasm you bring to all things LFA.”

of Grammy-nominated musician Robbie Fulks, covers of canonical country, bluegrass, and blues sides recorded in Chicago in the 1930s and ’40s by musicians such as The Delmore Brothers, artists on the Chess Records label, and more recent rock luminaries like Cheap Trick.” For more information or interest in supporting it, contact Liam (liam@liamdavis.com).

TV series The Man in the High Castle, featuring actor Joel de la Fuente ’87, returned to Amazon on December 16, 2016 for its second season. Set in an alternate reality, The Man in the High Castle imagines what would have happened if the Axis powers won World War II. Joel plays the ruthless Inspector Kido.

Ned Jessen ’73 was recognized for his dedicated service to Lake Forest Academy on September 24, 2016. The following citation plaque was presented highlighting Tom Farmer ’80 moved from south Florida the many ways he has impacted the to Texas this past year. He visits his son in Lisa McClung Ristic ’87 provided family Academy and certainly reflects his news about her daughters; “Anna ’22 and Peru 5-6 times a year. His son runs an North Shore “Live and Serve” spirit.

Ella ’21 were selected by the International animal rehab for release into wild.

“Longtime trustee, life trustee, alumni parent, Women’s Forum as Young Leaders. Oneand leadership supporter of the Academy, you Liam Davis ’86 is “producing an thousand women from 45 countries Americana album with Chicago artists are a model friend of the school. Always attended. Anna and Ella presented the performing new and old songs connected awards to the global women who make meticulous, ever conscientious, you have to Chicago. The recording will feature helped guide the Academy during one of the a difference.” (See page 18.) most important eras in its history. From your newly commissioned songs from the likes

1980s

a c o r n · Fall/Winter 2017

45

cl a ss notes

Clemantine Wamariya ’08

Alex Moffat ’00 (top left), cast member of Saturday Night Live with NSCDS students

Pam Whalley, Nick Whalley ’03 and Emma Cooper-Mullin

1990s Rene and Matthew Smey ’92 relocated to Ketchum, ID, in February of 2016, where they bought a house and had their fi rst child, Marcus Daniel Smey, born on August 17, 2016.

Erin Sexton-Sayler ’95 is a triage nurse

RN in Portland.

2000s Alex Moffat ’00, cast member of Saturday Night Live, met with NSCDS students during their Interim trip to New York City that concentrated on the performing arts and theater experiences.

Molly Whiteman ’03 was married to Andrew Vreede in Northfield, IL on October 15, 2016. They live in Ann Arbor, MI where they both work for the University of Michigan Hospital. Molly is a social worker in the emergency

46

department and Andrew is a doctor currently in the fellowship program for rheumatology.

Kevin Costello ’05 has been selected to head the East Region, New York City office of Metropolitan Capital, headquartered in Chicago. Drawing on his experience in banking and corporate fi nance, Kevin provides deal structuring and execution for debt and equity solutions, helps clients secure and manage capital and solves for the challenges associated with highgrowth companies.”

Lusia Zaitseva ’06 is now in Pakistan improving her Urdu fluency, and will next be off to Russia for a semester of research for her PhD thesis.

Wesley Keyser ’07 reports, “I’m currently living in Chicago and working for Walgreens. I travel internationally quite often, so if you’re in Hong Kong ever, let me know!”

Annsley McKinney ’08 graduated from the

Sotheby’s Institute of Art in 2015 and currently works at Christie’s Auction House in New York City.

Clemantine Wamariya ’08 was honored with the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum’s National Leadership Award for her work on genocide prevention.

She is the youngest award recipient at 28 years old.

Cindy Taylor ’08 was married on September 10, 2016 to Elliot Mooers in Arcadia, MI. She writes, “my husband and I are both working in education in southern Maine; he is an Ed Tech in a high school special ed classroom, and I am an elementary art teacher at two K-5 schools. We had NSCDS alumni Melissa Curley ’08, Jeff Killian ’08, Christoph Tries ’09, and of course my

brother Wilson ’11 in attendance at our wedding.”

Cindy Taylor ’08 and Elliot Mooers

Sophie Smith ’06 and Brian Finnerty with Mullery Doar ’06, Ashleigh Cross St. Peters ’05, Katie Butler ’05

Molly Whiteman ’03 and Andrew Vreede

Emily Finlay ’07 and Xandy Vertrees ’07

Sarah Finlay Maddox ’05 and Isla Ann Maddox

Marcus Daniel Smey with Rene and Matthew Smey ’92

Congratulations to Xander Mitchell ’15 on the launch of Standby: The Yale Undergraduate Travel Journal.

Births

2010s Linh Nguyen ’11 emailed, “I spent a year at NSCDS as an exchange student from Vietnam and lived with the KeeganMurnighans. After graduating from Yale College in 2015 with a degree in political science, I went to China on a post-graduate fellowship to study Chinese at Peking University. I am now living in Singapore and have just started working as an analyst for The Economist’s APAC consulting business. I am planning to visit the States in August 2017 and would love to catch up with all my teachers (shout out to Mrs. McHugh and Mr. Curren) and my friends from the Class of 2011!”

Jack Foley ’12 graduated from Art

Centre College of Design. He earned a BFA (with Honors). He’ll continue to work in film and television while living in Pasadena, CA. Danny Schur ’12 is living in New

York City and working for a financial services company.

Engagements Caroline Rex-Waller ’05 to John Barkhausen ’05

Marriages Nick Whalley ’03 to Emma Cooper-Mullin

July 30, 2016

gideon tate searle July 12, 2016 Stacy and G.P. Searle ’03

marcus daniel smey August 17, 2016 Rene and Matthew Smey ’92

gemma niamh mcdonagh August 29, 2016 Aisling McDonagh ’91

isla ann maddox

September 10, 2016

September 2, 2016 Ben and Sarah Finlay Maddox ’05

Cindy Taylor ’08 to Elliot Mooers September 10, 2016

marjorie “maggie” rochelle leonard

Sophie Smith ’06 to Brian Finnerty

September 6, 2016 Randi and Brendan Leonard ’02

Cassie Hunter ’97 to Jeremy Kelley

September 24, 2016 Molly Whiteman ’03 to Andrew Vreede

October 15, 2016

blake celia blenner September 12, 2016 Courtney and Benjy Blenner ’02

Emily Finlay ’07 to Xandy Vertrees ’07 October 29, 2016

a c o r n · Fall/Winter 2017

47

cl a ss notes In Memoriam richard ober ’73 May 31, 2016 Son of the late Stephen Ober (former faculty) Brother of Timothy Ober ’75

suzanne straub petersson ’40 June 23, 2016 Sister of Anita Straub Darrow ’38 and John Straub ’44

dr. robert wells carton

william l. jacobs ’43 November 27, 2016

julie lange hall (former Head of School 1992-2000) December 10, 2016 Grandmother of Marissa Hall ’10 and Riley Hall ’13

Former Upper School Teacher Dean Sexton writes, “Daughter Colleen is a medical social worker in Portland. Daughter Erin Sexton-Sayler ’95 is a triage nurse RN in Portland. Kevin, son, is a deputy D.A. in Los Angeles.”

robert leo hulseman December 21, 2016 Grandfather of Patrick Hulseman ’05, Conor Hulseman ’07, Michael Hulseman ’08, Sean Hulseman ’09,

August 15, 2016 Molly Hulseman ’11, Brendan Father of Barbara Carton ’68, Peggy Carton Stanley ’70, Jim Carton ’72 and Aubrey Carton Lande ’74

caroline copeland burke ’45 August 31, 2016

miriam fetcher steel ’33 September 14, 2016 Wife of William Steel (former faculty) Mother of William “Biff” Steel ’60 and Nicki (Polly) Steel ’65

gwenyth bingham warton ’43 October 13, 2016 Sister of Diane Bingham Pope ’49

peter albert repenning October 23, 2016 Father of Win Repenning ’90, John Repenning ’90, Nelson Repenning ’86

and Jamie Repenning ’92

Hulseman ’12, Brian Hulseman ’14,

Kathleen Hulseman ’15, Devitt Hulseman ’16, Delia Hulseman ’18 and Emmet Hulseman ’19

richard joseph sennott December 23, 2016 Father of Christopher Sennott ’80

Former Art Teacher Jackie Melissas was on campus December 9 for a visit. Although diane y. janson “retired,” Jackie remains involved and January 11, 2017 immersed with her art as a member Mother of Carol Janson Bond ’83, of four galleries. She has also enjoyed time Sonja Janson Holzman ’85, Rick Janson ’87 visiting family and traveling.

elaine favill ’54 January 16, 2017 Sister of the late Barbara Favill Marshall ’46

ira s. nathan January 16, 2017 Father of Andrew Nathan ’78 Grandfather of Kevin Nathan ’08

mary diana patrick mctigue ’53 November 1, 2016

d. reid weedon, jr.

November 2, 2016 Husband of Estelle Miller Weedon ’60 Brother-in-law of Carolyn Miller Short ’64, Miranda Miller Flanzer ’67

and John Flanzer ’66

stella decker malosti November 7, 2016 Grandmother of Jessica Gerber ’04, Jamie Gerber ’08 and Zoe Gerber ’11

dr. john (“jay”) s. garvin November, 26, 2016 Father of Mary Garvin ’70

richard l. merrick, jr ’60 November 26, 2016 Brother of William Merrick ’61, Susie Merrick Bacon ’63, and Tappan Merrick ’66, Stepbrother of Margot Fraker Wynkoop ’60 and George Fraker ’63

48

Former Faculty Former Middle School Teacher Bill Steel celebrated his 100th birthday in July. In the photo you can see him enjoying the Drum Circle his family had for his celebration.

Send in Your News!

THE DEADLINE FOR THE SPRING ACORN IS APRIL 14, 2017.

Email nwhiteman @ nscds.org or call Nancy at 847.881.8848 .

a lumni r efl ec t ion catherine “cathy” askow thompson ’69

• T he first ever high school anthropology class at North Shore, taught by Northwestern professors, in 9th grade, • A separate art studio in 12th grade for four students to paint on big canvases, COMMUNITY

Whatever the chosen path at NSCDS, students and alums have had opportunities to learn to be better citizens, have fun, solve problems and celebrate diversity. In the small familial environment, one may learn to be a loving friend, effective team member, responsible family member and spiritual individual.

NSCDS is a tribe in which one may find “forever friends” with whom to celebrate good times and provide comfort in hard times. My cohort has remained close. This tribal feeling extends to all alums, even to the chance meeting of a delightful alum on a small Caribbean island last February.

FA M I LY T I E S

“ W H AT E V E R T H E C H O S E N PAT H AT N S C D S , S T U D E N T S A N D A L U M S H AV E H A D OPPORTUNITIES TO LEARN TO BE BETTER CITIZENS, H A V E F U N , S O LV E P R O B L E M S A N D C E L E B R AT E D I V E R S I T Y. I N T H E S M A L L FA M I L I A L E N V I R O N M E N T, O N E M AY L E A R N T O B E A L O V I N G F R I E N D, EFFECTIVE TEAM MEMBER, R E S P O N S I B L E FA M I LY M E M B E R A N D S P I R I T U A L I N D I V I D U A L .”

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orth Shore Country Day School provided many opportunities; foremost was the “place in the sun” promised by the School’s philosophy of those times. I started in 6th grade and graduated at the end of the turbulent 1960s. I’m grateful for having been given the chance to focus on service, individual learning, lifelong community and deep family ties.

WORDS TO LIVE BY

North Shore’s “Live and Serve” motto and the (then) sign in the art room “Nothing to it but to do it” have accompanied me through adventures, studies and experiences in art, anthropology, archeology, marketing research and library science.

We were given openings to pursue our interests with a guiding overview.

INDIVIDUAL FOCUS

While learning core-curriculum frameworks, we could navigate our dreams.

These are cherished experiences: • Special creative writing group of five students in 7th grade, in which a story was due daily and discussed weekly for a full semester,

My family was part of the School family.

Both the immediate family and the School family provided great direction in the formative years. My mother, her brothers, my siblings, my cousins all attended. My father was a trustee. I’ve served in several capacities for the Alumni Board.

My current family benefits from my experiences. This family includes my husband Jeremy Scott Wood, three stepchildren, their partners and four grandchildren.

CONCLUSIONS

Individual and traditional educational experiences at North Shore encouraged a sense of involvement. That has translated to pursuing art, traveling, hiking high mountains, supervising archeological digs, presenting research designs in corporate boardrooms, writing successful grants for library construction and finding just the right book for a new reader.

North Shore did provide a place in the sun. We have been given opportunities to create meaningful footprints in our world, globally and locally.

I’m grateful. Thanks to lessons learned at North Shore Country Day,I’ve reached my Medicare years with a sense of happiness and accomplishment.

North Shore Country Day School 310 Green Bay Road Winnetka, Illinois 60093–4094

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