Parker Magazine Summer 2018

Summer 2018

CELEBRATING THE CLASS OF 2018

COLLEGE COUNSELING UNCOVERED

A LASTING IMPACT: RETIRING FACULTY

CAPTURING THE SPIRIT OF ALOHA

AS FAR AS THE MIND CAN SEE JOIN US FOR ADMISSIONS

OPEN HOUSE LOWER SCHOOL JK TO GRADE 5 SATURDAY NOVEMBER 30 9 TO 11:30 AM MISSION HILLS CAMPUS MIDDLE AND UPPER SCHOOL GRADES 6 TO 12 SATURDAY DECEMBER 7 9 AM TO 12 PM LINDA VISTA CAMPUS FRANCISPARKER.ORG/ ADMISSIONS

MESSAGE FROM THE HEAD

Head of School Kevin Yaley addresses students of the graduating class at Commencement on June 4.

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gain this past June, I had the distinct privilege of celebrating commencement with Parker’s graduating class. This year’s commencement address, delivered by Matt Blumberg ’88, captured beautifully a message of hope and inspiration. In sharing his story, Matt highlighted a truth he discovered early in his professional career: “I learned how to recapture something that I’d lost along the way that year—joy. Many of the great experiences of my life have come from creating joy, or from finding joy where I didn’t know there was joy to be found.

You can find joy in the small and the mundane.

You can find joy in a quest.

You can find joy in pursuing your own path.

You can find joy in the saddest of things.

You can find joy in creating joy for others.

You can find joy in saying thanks.”

As we close out the 2017-2018 academic year with this edition of the Parker Magazine, celebrating in word and in picture all that is right and good about our School, we simultaneously look to next year with anticipation and a spirit of “finding joy” for what lies ahead in 2018-2019.

Along with many celebrations we can anticipate in the upcoming year—including welcoming all of our new students and families to the Heart of Campus—we look forward to the opportunity for thoughtful reflection in our commitment to ongoing improvement. As part of our accreditation by the California Association of Independent School (CAIS) and the Western Association of Schools and

Colleges (WASC), in 2018-2019 Parker will initiate a comprehensive evaluation process ensuring that the School is meeting its defined goals and objectives based on our mission and philosophy to provide students with an exceptional educational experience.

The accreditation process begins with a 12-month internal self-study based on 16 standards that capture the most critical aspects of effective school keeping.

Areas of review range from the student learning experience to admissions, and fundraising to governance. In short, the self-study requires us to review and clarify our purpose and goals, demonstrating the degree to which they are being achieved.

The process culminates with a comprehensive report being submitted to CAIS and WASC (on or before Dec. 1, 2019). Early in 2020, a team of California independent school educators and administrators will conduct a four-day, on-site visit to evaluate our programs and operations, and to assess our collective effectiveness in fulfilling our mission and stated goals.

For now, may you and yours enjoy a restful and relaxing summer. All of us here at Parker look forward to your return in September, when we will kick off a year of celebration and joy.

All the best,

Kevin Yaley Head of School SUMMER 2018 PARKER MAGAZINE

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PARKER MOMENT

Parker alumni, members of the graduating class, and their senior kindergarten buddies joined together for the School’s annual coin exchange ceremony on May 29 at the Linda Vista Campus.

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PARKER MAGAZINE SUMMER 2018

PARKER MAGAZINE SUMMER 2018 FRANCIS PARKER SCHOOL Kevin Yaley, Head of School EDITOR Lori Foote ’94 DEPARTMENTS 04 PARKER HIGHLIGHTS

The latest news from the School 20 SPRING ARTS NIGHT

An evening celebrating Parker artists

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COPY EDITOR Barb Fokos Nicole Gesualdo CONTRIBUTORS Melissa Beltz Courtney Ranaudo Annie Sawyer Tiffany Yu

24 CAPTURING THE SPIRIT OF ALOHA Parker’s 36th annual gala breaks records

PHOTOGRAPHY Bauman Photography Nancee Lewis Photography Courtney Ranaudo

31 LEGENDARY STATUS

Coach David Glassey is inducted into

the Hall of Honorees 34 LEAVING A LASTING IMPACT

Profiles of retiring faculty and staff 38 PARKER REUNION

Alumni reconnect at milestone reunions 42 CLASS NOTES

Recent news from Parker alumni

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46 PARKER BY THE NUMBERS

A look at Parker graduates and

young alumni

FEATURES 08 COMMENCEMENT AND PROMOTIONS

Celebrating the classes of 2018, 2022,

and 2025 16 THE RIGHT SCHOOL FOR THE JOB Parker’s college counseling team connects

students with the right school for them 00 A COACH AT HEART

Coach John Herman reflects on his time as

Interim Athletic Director

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2018-2019 FRANCIS PARKER SCHOOL BOARD OF TRUSTEES Robert Gleason, Chair Will Beamer ʼ89 Ayse Benker Diana Casey Randall Clark Kristie Diamond Rich Effress Graeme Gabriel

Shakha Gillin, M.D. Robert Howard Randy Jones Ted Kim Susan Lester Jennifer Levitt Noelle Khoury Ludwig ʼ91 Patsy Marino

Kate Deely Smith Meghan Spieker Traci Stuart Mary Taylor Sarah White Caroline Rentto Wohl ʼ86 Kevin Yaley, Head of School

OUR MISSION To create and inspire a diverse community of independent thinkers whose academic excellence, global perspective, and strength of character prepare them to make a meaningful difference in the world.

Francis Parker School is an inclusive community where diversity is welcomed and celebrated. We seek talented students, families, faculty and staff from different backgrounds. The School does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, physical ability, creed or national origin in the administration of its admissions, tuition assistance, employment determination or other procedures or programs.

Parker Magazine is published three times each year by the Communications Office as a School community magazine.

Communications Office Francis Parker School 6501 Linda Vista Road San Diego, CA 92111 communications@francisparker.org francisparker.org/magazine Front cover: Members of the Class of 2018 stop for a photo with Grade 12 Dean Paul Esch before progressing to the commencement stage. Back cover: Grade 3 students perform a song from their production of the play “Let Freedom Ring.”

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PARKER HIGHLIGHTS SELF-STUDY

HISTORY DAY CHAMPIONS On June 14, Parker students Adam Nussbaum and Cleo Chaplin, both Class of 2019, took first place in the Senior Group Documentary category at the National History Day Competition for their documentary film, “Berkeley On Strike: The Battle for Ethnic Studies.”

Out of thousands of participants, only 18 students took home firstplace prizes at National History Day, a nationwide contest for middle and high school students.

Earlier in the year, Parker sent 37 students from the Middle and Upper Schools to represent San Diego County at the California National History Day in Rocklin, California.

From that event, Zachary Braner, Cleo Chaplin, Vicky Comunale, Davis Kedrosky, Jeyan Kirtay, and Adam Nussbaum, all Class of 2019, advanced to the National Competition at the University of Maryland.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES ANNUAL MEETING On June 4, Parker’s Board of Trustees held their annual meeting at Parker’s Linda Vista Campus. During the meeting, Robert Gleason was confirmed as incoming Board Chair.

Robert has served as a member of the Board since 2012, during which time he has chaired the Philanthropy Committee and served on the Compensation Committee.

The election also confirmed four new trustees: Ayse Benker, Graeme Gabriel, Noelle Khoury Ludwig ’91, and Traci Stuart; and the re-election of current trustees Robert Gleason, Robert Howard, Meghan Spieker, and Caroline Rentto Wohl ’86. Outgoing trustees Susan Davey, David Wellis, and Jeff Von Behren ’90 and outgoing Board Chair Jeff Silberman ’75 were recognized for their leadership and service to the School.

Learn more about Parker’s Board of Trustees online at francisparker.org/ bot

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PARKER MAGAZINE SUMMER 2018

In Spring 2013, Parker was awarded the maximum seven-year accreditation by the California Association of Independent School (CAIS) Board of Standards and the Accrediting Commission for Schools, Western Association of Schools and Colle ge s. As the de adline for re accreditation approaches in 2020, the School is engaging in a year-long self-study to facilitate the process.

The self-study is based on a set of comprehensive standards set by CAIS. The standards address all areas of school life, including the School’s mission, governance, program, finance, administration, community, development, admissions, personnel, health and safety, facilities, student services, philanthropy, and school culture.

Look for update s on the se lfstudy throughout next year in the Parker Magazine and other School communications.

BACK TO SCHOOL INFORMATION Back to School information for the 2018-2019 school year is now available on the Back to School resource board in onCampus (parent portal). This page provides information about summer reading, book ordering, important dates and deadlines, and other division-specific information.

Special editions of the Parker Family Connection (PFC) email newsletter are also sent three times during the summer months to keep you informed of important information and relevant School updates.

Learn more at francisparker.org/ backtoschool

PARKER HIGHLIGHTS

(continued) Mulliken Family-Lane Foundation Endowment for Teaching Excellence Carrie Dilmore Keven Ford Jim Tomey Vassiliadis Family Distinguished Fellowship Gretchen Taylor

PARKER SAILING TAKES 2ND IN NATIONAL REGATTA The Parker varsity sailing team finished 2nd at the 2018 Interscholastic Sailing Association (ISSA) High School Double-handed Fleet Race National Championship Regatta, held in May 2018 near Houston, Texas.

Twenty high school teams, comprising 137 of the top high school sailors in the country, competed in Flying Junior boats. Teams qualified out of the seven district regions throughout the United States.

PARKER STUDENTS RETURN HIGH SCORES ON NATIONAL SPANISH EXAMS Earlier this year, 169 Parker Upper School students took the 2018 National Spanish Examination.

Overall, 114 of them attained national recognition for excellent performance earning them gold, silver, bronze, and honorable mention recognition for their test results. “Attaining a medal or honorable mention for any student on the National Spanish Examinations is very prestigious,” says Kevin Cessna-Buscemi, National Director of the Exams. “The exams are the largest of their kind in the United States with over 157,000 students participating in 2017.”

Pictured above: Top row left to right Ceri Keith, David Gray, Kimberly Kelley, Tara del Gaizo, PA President Marilyn Tobin, Patty Williams. Bottom row left to right Madeleine Nawrocki, Shana Fink, Julie Garrie, Gloria Mayora, Erin Dunn, Miriam Leakemariam.

2018-2019 PARENTS ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS We are pleased to announce the 2018-2019 Parents Association (PA) Board of Directors led by PA President Marilyn Tobin. The group plays an important role in enhancing the community experience while supporting the mission and vision of the School.

Learn more about the PA online at francisparker.org/parents

END-OF-YEAR AWARDS At the end of each academic year, the School recognizes faculty and staff who demonstrate excellence at Parker. Listed below are this year’s award winners.

Dethloff Family Fund for Excellence in Teaching Bridgett Besinger Stephanie Oberle Christen Tedrow-Harrison

W. Lee Pierson Endowed Faculty Summer Sabbatical Seniority Grant Chris Harrington Parker Spirit of Excellence Award Nancy Anderson-Bruno Amanda Brown Amy Belknap Erica Buechner Jennifer Dorsey Kevin Dunn Amy Eversole Lori Foote Monica Gallardo Gwen Giek Michael Gonzales Rob Hanson Kerry Haynes Michelle Lorne Maggie Miller Mary Ong-Dean Lisa Park Jarrad Phillips Mae Powell Courtney Ranaudo Katie Rosin Monica Sawaya Annie Sawyer Lauren St. John Lopez Jasmin Taylor Marc Thiebach Becki Thompson Phil Trotter Julien Vedrene Maggie West

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PARKER HIGHLIGHTS

AS SEEN ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Local art exhibits Student Craft at the Mingei International Museum and the Groff Exhibition at San Diego City College featured artwork from Parker students.

Upper School students gained real-world business experience in the interim week LaunchPad course at the University of San Diego's Rady School of Management.

Each week, faculty features profile Parker teachers from Lower, Middle, and Upper School.

FOLLOW PARKER ON SOCIAL MEDIA /FRANCISPARKERSCHOOL /FRANCISPARKERSC /FRANCISPARKERSC /FRANCISPARKERSCHOOL FRANCIS PARKER SCHOOL

Parker moments offer a peek inside the classroom.

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“To me, Parker is not just a school. It is a second home. It is a place where you are free to be yourself, and be accepted for it.”

Darby Byrnes, Class of 2025

p. 12

“Everyone at Francis Parker School helped me become a better version of myself and step into my future with the right tools.

They believed in me, and so I believed in myself.”

Nargis Alizada Khan ’08

p. 24

“THE STUDENTS ARE SO KIND HERE. THEY’RE ‘INTO’ LEARNING. THEY REALIZE THAT IT’S SOMETHING THEY WANT TO DO, AND THEY ARE SO SUPPORTIVE OF ONE ANOTHER IN ALL THAT THEY DO. IT’S REALLY WONDERFUL TO SEE.” Rose Hanscom

p. 34

“I’ve learned that I thrive in a supportive community.”

Emily Potts ’18 p. 17

“Seeing my players grow—as people, not just as athletes—from their freshman to senior year is the best part. I’m grateful and I’m humbled to coach at Parker. ” Andrew Vassiliadis ’01 p. 30

“We always tell our players, ‘You’re leaving your legacy.’ They’re playing for themselves, for the School, and for the legacy of the program and the alumni who came before them.”

John Herman

p. 29

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Class of 2018 COMMENCEMENT

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THE FEELING OF JOY WAS EVERPRESENT AT THE LINDA VISTA CAMPUS ON THE AFTERNOON OF SATURDAY, JUNE 2 FOR THE COMMENCEMENT CELEBRATION OF PARKER’S CLASS OF 2018.

As guests settled into their seats, Head of Upper School Dr. Monica Gillespie welcomed friends, family, faculty, and trustees to her first Parker commencement.

At the same time, graduates from the Class of 2018 progressed from across Campus, taking them along the winding path of what would be their last walk through the Upper School as students. At the very last minute, members of the varsity baseball team snuck on stage, having rushed to commencement from playing their last game as Lancers in the CIF Division II Playoffs Championship game earlier that afternoon. As the last member of the class took their seat on stage, the ceremony began.

Head of School Kevin Yaley addressed the students and audience with a message of gratitude. As part of his address, the graduating class held up signs that spelled out “Thank You”—a message directed to each student’s family, friends, and loved ones for their ongoing support and encouragement that brought them to this point in their life.

But it was Parker alumnus Matt Blumberg ’88 that put to words the feeling of joy that was in the air that afternoon. He took to the stage exactly 30 years from his Parker graduation. In his address to the students, he reflected on all that had changed at Parker and all that had remained the same—the dedication of Parker’s faculty and staff, the excellence of the School’s academic program, and the bright future each student has to look forward to.

Matt closed his address with a challenge for the students to always be grateful for the supportive, loving people in their lives and to find ways to bring joy to their life and the lives of others. n Left: Members of the Class of 2018 stop for a photo on their procession to the commencement ceremony.

Right from top: Commencement speaker Matt Blumberg ʼ88 addresses the graduating class; Class Valedictorian Troy Appel ʼ18 shares a reflective speech with the students and audience; class speaker Ben Krongard ’18 reflects on the ʻroad tripʼ of his high school career; Parker welcomed more than 1,600 guests to the Linda Vista Campus for commencement.

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CLASS OF 2018 MATRICULATION American University

Seattle University

Babson College

Smith College

Bates College

Southwestern College

Benedictine College

Stanford University

Boston College

Texas Christian University

Boston University

Tufts University

Brown University

United States Naval Academy

California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo

Universiteit van Amsterdam

California State Polytechnic University, Pomona

University of Arizona

Claremont McKenna College Columbia University Cornell University Dartmouth College Dillard University Drake University Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Daytona Beach George Washington University Harvard University Humboldt State University Loyola Marymount University Massachusetts Institute of Technology Middlebury College Montana State University, Bozeman New York University Northeastern University Pepperdine University Pitzer College Point Loma Nazarene University Pomona College Princeton University Providence College Rice University Saint Mary’s College of California San Diego State University

University of Alabama University of California, Berkeley University of California, Davis University of California, Los Angeles University of California, San Diego University of California, Santa Barbara University of Chicago University of Colorado, Boulder University of Hawaii, Manoa University of Michigan University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill University of Oregon University of Redlands University of St. Andrews University of San Diego University of San Francisco University of Southern California University of Texas, Austin University of Virginia University of Washington University of Wisconsin, Madison Vanderbilt University Wake Forest University Washington University, Saint Louis Willamette University Xavier University of Louisiana Yale University

Santa Clara University

Left: (clockwise from top) Bryan Shaw ’18 talks with Tej Shah ’18; After receiving his diploma, Subbareddy Duvuuru ’18 pauses for a photo with Head of School Kevin Yaley; Rachel Gordon ’18 shakes hands with Head of Upper School Dr. Monica Gillespie; Sarina Jassy ’18 and Elias Jinich ’18 are greeted by Parker faculty after the commencement ceremony; Birdy Hartman, Letty Robinson, and Dave Johnson process to the ceremony; Megan Pai ’18 and Madeleine McGrath ’18 stop for a photo before the ceremony.

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LOWER SCHOOL PROMOTION

The promotion from Grade 5 to 6 is a momentous occasion in the life of a Parker student. Moving to the Linda Vista Campus, exploring increased independence, and experiencing growth physically, mentally, and in their academics, is all in their near futures.

Knowing these changes lie ahead makes the promotion ceremony that much more special. Proud families, friends, and teachers joined together on June 8 to celebrate the accomplishments of the next generation of Lancers.

Each year, just before promotion, Head of Lower School Dr. Bob Gillingham assigns an essay topic to the Grade 5 students with a writing prompt that leaves them reflecting on their time at Lower School. This year, the prompt was, “What Parker Means to Me.” Below are a few excerpts from the students’ essays.

“To me, Parker is not just a school. It is a second home. It is a place where you are free to be yourself, and be accepted for it.

A place that will support you until you’re on top, and won’t judge you when you’re on the bottom.”

— Darby Byrnes, Class of 2025

“Parker is my second home, but not just because I am here for most of the year.

Every Parker student has their reasons why Parker is their second home, and for me, it is because I’ve grown a lot, I’ve learned a lot, and I have made friends here that are more like family.”

— Griffith Manse, Class of 2025

Right: (clockwise from top) The Class of 2025, dressed for promotion, took a group photo at the Gooding Family Courtyard on Parkerʼs Mission Hills Campus; Proud of their accomplishments, students make their way to the promotion ceremony; As each name was called, Head of Lower School Dr. Bob Gillingham presents them with a certificate of promotion; The audience enjoys reflective speeches by six students from the Class of 2025.

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MIDDLE SCHOOL PROMOTION 14

Preparing to take the next step to Upper School, the Class of 2022 promoted from Middle School on the morning of June 7.

Students spent their last day as Middle Schoolers reminiscing about their time together, sharing their excitement for Upper School, and thanking their teachers and advisors for the experiences that took them literally around the world.

Joined together with their families, friends, and loved ones in the Field House, students shared their talents through musical performances, and their thoughts on the Middle School journey through reflective essays. As each student received their promotion certificate from Head of Middle School Dan Lang, their excitement was matched only by that of the applause and cheers from their loved ones in the audience.

The exciting experience of Upper School lies just ahead for the students of the Class of 2022. Their futures are surely bright.

Right: (clockwise from top) The Class of 2022 took a group photo at Lancer Lawn on ParkerĘźs Linda Vista Campus; As each name was called, Head of Middle School Dan Lang presents them with a certificate of promotion; Proud of their accomplishments, students make their way from the promotion ceremony; The audience enjoyed student performances during the promotion ceremony; Student reflections left a meaningful impression with all who were in attendance.

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THE RIGHT SCHOOL FOR THE JOB

“WHERE DO YOU WANT TO GO TO COLLEGE?” IT’S PROBABLY THE FIRST QUESTION YOU’D EXPECT A COLLEGE COUNSELOR TO ASK A HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT. AT PARKER, HOWEVER, THAT QUESTION IS MORE LIKELY TO BE, “WHAT IS YOUR PASSION?” OR “WHAT GETS YOU EXCITED?” STUDENTS MAY ALSO BE ASKED TO THINK A STEP OR TWO AHEAD, PROMPTING THEIR THOUGHTS ON FUTURE CAREERS BEYOND COLLEGE. These questions are indicators of a vision recent Parker graduates know well. For counselors at Parker, the goal is not to shape each student to fit a certain school, but to find the right school that fits each student. Getting to know students’ personalities, interests, and goals is key to their success.

Parker’s college counselors sat down for mini-interviews with Class of 2018 graduates about the college search process and what they learned along the way. Excerpts of those conversations follow.

Conversations have been edited for space and clarity.

PARKER’S COLLEGE COUNSELING TEAM HELPS STUDENTS MEET THEIR MATCH

BY TIFFANY YU

Emily Potts ’18 and Director of College Counseling Bob Hurley.

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EMILY POTTS ’18 WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY WINSTON-SALEM, NORTH CAROLINA With her heart set on being a doctor, Emily Potts ’18 initially thought her next stop after Parker should be the Ivy League.

The college-search process, however, changed her outlook.

Campus visits, counseling meetings with Director of College Counseling Bob Hurley, and personal reflection helped Emily realize she wanted a school that combined outstanding academics with a close-knit, supportive community—just like the one she had at Parker.

BOB: What did you learn about yourself through your college search process?

In the fall, Emily will attend Wake Forest University in North Carolina, where she will study biochemistry and molecular biology with her sights set on becoming a neurosurgeon.

Emily credits Bob with helping her find her school, to which she might never have applied otherwise.

BOB: What is it about Wake Forest that stood out to you?

EMILY: I’ve learned that I thrive in a supportive community.

I want to go to a school where I can make an impact— somewhere where I won’t be lost in the crowd. A place where I can make a name for myself and be a part of a larger community.

EMILY: Wake Forest has everything I want in a school: amazing academics, which was top on my list; a supportive community; and school with a lot of spirit. I looked for a school that has a four-year residential living program to create that “community” feel. I want to be at a school that offers extracurricular activities similar to the things that I did at Parker, and new activities as well. Wake Forest has them all. When I first walked on the campus, I immediately felt it was the right fit; it was where I was meant to be. I had the same feeling when I toured Parker, so I kind of “knew.”

BOB: Thinking back over the process of choosing your school, what resources or people did you find most helpful?

EMILY: College visits were super helpful: being on campus, being with the people, experiencing a snippet of what I might experience if I were to attend school there. College representative visits at Parker were also helpful. I started going to those in my sophomore and junior years. It also was very helpful to be able to talk to you. You were the one who put Wake Forest on my list from the beginning. Without being able to tell you what I wanted in a school and you giving me options, Wake Forest would never have been on my radar.

BOB: What advice would you give to the underclassmen just beginning their college search?

EMILY: I would tell them not to worry about the name of the college. That is something they will hear from their counselors, too. For a while, I wanted to go to an Ivy League school, but through the college search process, I realized I wanted a less competitive environment. I would suggest that younger students think now about which school is going to be the right fit for them. Where are they going to be comfortable and thrive? They are going to spend four years at the school they choose—they should enjoy it.

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ASHKON AGHASSI ’18 CLAREMONT MCKENNA COLLEGE CLAREMONT, CALIFORNIA The college essay is a student’s opportunity to make a connection with a college. For Ashkon Aghassi ’18, summing up his life experiences and passions in 900 words or less proved difficult. But with help from Dean of College Counseling Terri Devine, Ashkon was able to dig deep and tell his story.

Ashkon, a Parker lifer, was accepted to Claremont McKenna College and plans to study economics and computer science.

TERRI: What was it like writing your college essay, and what did you learn about yourself through the process?

ASHKON: In my Grade 11 English class, we wrote a practice college essay. If it weren’t for that assignment, I would have put it off until the last minute. It was pretty difficult, because when someone says, “Write a college essay,” you have no idea what to do or where to start. We’re used to answering a prompt or writing about a book we’ve read, but not writing about ourselves.

In my essay, I talked about my background. It was a good way to learn about myself and my [Iranian] heritage. I wrote about how on college applications or standardized testing forms, I have to identify as “Caucasian” because the form says, “Caucasian: includes Middle Eastern descent.” That is something that I don’t completely agree with. It was very interesting to put that onto paper—what I believe and how it made me feel. It’s not something that everyone goes through.

TERRI: What was the most challenging part of the college search process?

ASHKON: For me, narrowing down the colleges. I was so open to many options that it ended up being a problem. It eventually was really rewarding to narrow it down to the ones that I really enjoyed, and I could only do that by visiting the schools.

TERRI: What resources were most helpful?

ASHKON: The College Counseling office. The School does a great job matching you with a list of colleges. Also, visiting campuses and meeting with Parker alumni at the colleges you are interested in. At Claremont McKenna, there were a few Parker alumni who are really involved in the school. That gave me good insight as to how I would adapt to the school.

Dean of College Counseling Terri Devine and Ashkon Aghassi ’18.

JULIA LAFFERTY ’18 UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII HONOLULU, HAWAII Early in her Parker Upper School career, Julia Lafferty ’18 had no idea what her future career might look like. During a service trip volunteering at hospitals in Nicaragua, she figured it out: nursing was her calling. College Counselor Andy Losier helped to harness this newfound sense of direction to lead Julia through a more focused college search, which led her to the University of Hawaii.

ANDY: What about your travel experience inspired your decision to go into nursing?

JULIA: On the community-service trip to Nicaragua, we worked in hospitals. I got to meet doctors and nurses, and that sparked my interest.

ANDY: How was the application process different for you, applying for something as specific as nursing?

JULIA: You have to write more essays and complete several applications that require distinct information. It’s a lot of work, but you just have to keep organized.

ANDY: Were there nursing-specific questions you made sure to ask while on school tours?

JULIA: I asked about the differences between their program and programs at other colleges. I also made sure to ask about their program requirements from high school, like APs and test scores.

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LIAM: My general wants in a school didn’t change much throughout the process. I knew I wanted a large student body—not too large—that felt authentic. I wanted fluidity between majors, knowing that many students change their majors in college. And good weather. So I only had six schools on my list.

JASMIN: What would be your advice to juniors and seniors going through the college essay process?

LIAM: Don’t think you have to write a resumé for your essays.

There isn’t a topic that is off limits as long as it reflects you.

One essay prompt asked, “What class would you teach?” I wrote that I would want to teach a class analyzing Kesha, the singer. I didn’t write about that to refer to a music club I had started or the fact that I got an “A” in AP Music Theory—it was what I found interesting. Colleges get to know you through your essays.

JASMIN: What are you looking forward to most at Stanford?

Director of College Counseling Andy Losier and Julia Lafferty ’18.

ANDY: What is your advice to pass on to Parker undergraduate students?

JULIA: I’ve been noticing that freshmen and sophomores are obsessed with college stuff, and I don’t think that is necessary yet. They may feel pressure from friends who are upperclassmen, siblings, or even parents. Focus on your experience learning at Parker and spending time with your friends, because high school goes by so fast. Worry about college when it comes time.

LIAM: Like people at Parker, [Stanford] people are intellectual and smart, but no one feels the need to tell you. At Stanford events, I met an Oscar winner, a poet laureate, and a person who had an asteroid named after them and I didn’t know these things about them until afterwards. I found that the Stanford community has the mindset that what’s in the present and the future is more important than what they have done in the past. I look forward to and appreciate that. n

LIAM FAY ’18 STANFORD UNIVERSITY STANFORD, CALIFORNIA When it came to writing his college essays, Liam Fay ’18 had too much to talk about. He had to mention his popular teambuilding workshop, “The Secret to a Better Robot,” which he was invited to share with faculty across San Diego County. He couldn’t leave out his work on the Diversity Day curriculum, his student leadership roles, or his music awards, among so many other things. How would he fit it all in?

With the guidance of College Counselor Jasmin Taylor, Liam was able to peel back the layers of accomplishments to let his essays reveal the core of who he is. That true self is now headed to Stanford University, with plans to go into marketing, design, or teaching.

JASMIN: What were the qualities you were looking for in a school? Did that change throughout the process?

Liam Fay ’18 and Director of College Counseling Jasmin Taylor.

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Crowds of Parker students, families, and faculty flock to the James Alan Rose Art Gallery to enjoy the artwork on display inside.

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For one evening in May, Middle and Upper School student works are displayed for the Parker community to enjoy.

The walls of the James Alan Rose Art Gallery exhibit creative works representative of many mediums; wood, paint, clay, photography, bronze, stone, and mixed media. Meanwhile, just inside J. Crivello Hall, performances from dance, drama, chorus, strings, guitar, and band classes left guests impressed by the many talents of Parker artists.

Spring Arts Night is the culminating event of the year for ParkerĘźs art program. The event celebrates the creativity and imagination of the SchoolĘźs Middle and Upper School artists, guided by the talent and support of the visual and performing arts department faculty.

Students and faculty take an early trip through the art gallery to share their creations with their classmates.

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7 IMAGE GUIDE 1 | Sarina Jassy ʼ18 performs a dance solo in J. Crivello Hall 2 | Mandala by Hannah Drouin, Class of 2023 3 | Wood turned bowl by Christian Foote, Class of 2023 4 | Golden Retriever by Betsy Barsily ʼ18 5 | Sea Shell Mobile by Lauryn Espinoza, Class of 2022 6 | A Broken Image by Sophie White, Class of 2023 7 | Christian Lee, Class of 2023 performs in J. Crivello Hall 8 | Flower Meadow by Lily Loughridge, Class of 2020

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CAP�RING �E SPIRIT OF A�HA THE PARENTS ASSOCIATION’S 36TH GALA, THE ALOHA ISLAND LUAU, RAISED $1.13 MILLION FOR STUDENT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AND FACULTY PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT. Today we think of “Aloha” as a greeting, but in the old days of Hawaii, the word meant something a little different: “What’s mine is yours.” This generous Aloha spirit was alive and thriving in the Parker community on the evening of May 5.

The Linda Vista Campus was transformed into an island retreat by Gala Co-Chairs David Gray and Marilyn Tobin, and their dedicated Gala committee. As guests entered the tropical oasis, they were greeted by Hawaiian music and hula dancers. The main stage was decorated with brightly colored lanterns and tropical flowers—ready for the exciting evening soon to follow.

All of this formed the backdrop for the Galaʼs featured speaker, Parker alumna Nargis Alizada Khan ’08, whose words were even more memorable than the setting itself.

Nargis, a refugee from Afghanistan, spoke about the high value that her family placed on education. She shared her grandfather’s words, which have helped guide her in life: “Follow great steps and leave great steps behind.”

In America, the right to an education can be taken for granted. But in Nargis’ home nation of Afghanistan, where women were not allowed to be educated under Taliban rule, the opportunity to learn was valued more than anything else. When Nargis’ father made his escape from Afghanistan many years ago, he entrusted the future of his childrenʼs education to his own father, asking him to promise that his two daughters would be educated. Nargis’ grandfather delivered on that promise.

Years later, Nargis and her other family members were able to make their own exit from Afghanistan, re-join her father, and come to the United States. They found themselves needing to learn a new language and adapt to a new culture and lifestyle. Through it all,

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Nargis remembered her grandfather’s advice: “Follow great steps and leave great steps behind.”

Nargis’ story eventually came to the attention of a Parker administrator. She was offered a full scholarship to attend Parker, and seized the opportunity—she transferred in the middle of Grade 8. The outpouring of support from the School astounded her and her family, as Parker provided everything that she needed to excel: tuition, books, uniforms, transportation, and after-school tutoring. Nargis couldnʼt understand at the time why people would give so much to someone they didnʼt even know.

The Parker faculty and staff motivated Nargis through each challenge she faced during her time as a student.

“Everyone at Francis Parker School helped me become a better version of myself and step into my future with the right tools. They believed in me, and so I believed in myself.”

- Nargis Alizada Khan ’08 Today, Nargis is the Muslim chaplain at her alma mater, Fairfield University in Connecticut. Now in her third year in the role, she draws on both the wisdom of her grandfather and the values of Parker to inform her guidance and ministry to each Fairfield student who comes through her door.

“Follow great steps and leave great steps behind.” n

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SPONSORS 26

We thank the Gala Sponsors for their generosity and belief in the amazing impact that philanthropic support can have on the Parker community.

BLACK SPONSORS $30,000

PLATINUM SPONSORS $25,000

GOLD SPONSORS $15,000

SILVER SPONSORS $10,000

Hughes Marino Osman and Lesli Kibar

Bridgepoint Education WestPac Wealth Partners Phil and Ann White

GTS Athletic Lynne and Rob Hayes

T.B. Penick & Sons Professional Maintenance Systems Paul and Tonnia Tran

PARKER MAGAZINE SUMMER 2018

HEART OF CAMPUS construction ramped up over spring break and into the summer. Several critical milestones are complete and work continues both on- and off-site in the areas of food service, site work, public safety, and parking.

Roughly 200,000 square feet of asphalt and concrete work was done to create the area where the Parker community will walk and drive once the project is complete. That converts to about 4.5 acres of land that needed to be graded and improved—similar in size to Downtown’s Waterfront Park.

The School installed a bioswale along Linda Vista Road to help mitigate storm water runoff, and remove debris and pollution from runoff that would otherwise end up in our ocean. Changes were also made to the driveways along Linda Vista Road—a median is being installed to ensure the safety of the Parker community, as well as drivers who use Linda Vista Road as part of their everyday commute.

The roof of the parking structure—which will serve as the floor to a future athletic complex—is nearing completion at this time. This brings the total concrete truck count to over 800. With an average load of nine cubic yards per truck, it is enough concrete to fill two Olympic-sized swimming pools.

The Heart of Campus project is planned to open by the end of the calendar year.

HEART of CAMPUS On March 19, Heart of Campus campaign donors were invited to add their signatures to one of the first steel beams installed in the Student Life Center. The celebratory event marked a milestone in the projectʼs completion.

IMAGE GUIDE 1 | Former Board Chair Jeff Silberman ʼ75 2 | Board Chair Robert Gleason and Marc Matys 3 | Former Board Chair William Jones 4 | Former Board Chair Kathy Purdon 5 | Alison Alpert, Jeff Von Behren ʼ90, Sue Lester, Jing Bourgois, James Freeman, Kate Smith 6 | Emil Wohl and Caroline Rentto Wohl ’86

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A Coach at Heart PARKER’S VETERAN VOLLEYBALL COACH REFLECTS ON HIS YEAR AS INTERIM ATHLETIC DIRECTOR

BY MELISSA BELTZ

Above: Coach John Herman

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JOHN HERMAN HAS TAKEN ON A NUMBER OF DIFFERENT RESPONSIBILITIES AT THE SCHOOL OVER THE COURSE OF THREE DECADES: BOYS’ VOLLEYBALL COACH, MENTOR, TEACHER, AND, MOST RECENTLY AT THE SCHOOL’S REQUEST INTERIM ATHLETIC DIRECTOR. “This School has given me so much; of course I was going to say yes,” says John, who was tapped to fill the position for the 2017-2018 school year.

Though John enjoyed his year in the role, he is excited to turn his attention back to the volleyball program and his players.

“I had to take a step back from Middle School athletics when I took this position,” he explains, before adding with a smile, “I’m jumping back in this year.”

Volleyball has been at the core of John’s career since the early 1990s. He has led Parker teams to 15 CIF championship wins, a state championship title, and an appearance at nationals. But it’s not the wins that have kept him in the game all these years. It’s the excitement he finds in the game itself and especially in his players.

“I always look forward to coming to work—I get to do what I love and teach kids sports,” he says. “When the light clicks on in their eyes and they’re able to do something they couldn’t do before, you just see the excitement in them. It’s the best part of my day.”

Growing up in Huntington Beach, John played volleyball recreationally, and walked onto the team at Long Beach State in his freshman year. As a long-jumper and basketball player in high school, John says he had to work extremely hard to make up for his lack of formal volleyball experience.

He passes on that spirit of hard work at every Parker practice.

“We play in the best leagues; we play against

the strongest teams,” John says. “When we are successful against really strong competition, I know what those kids have put in—the time, the sacrifices. They worked really hard over a long period of time to achieve that success. They went to a place they didn’t think they could go.”

As interim athletic director, John looked to bring athletics staff to Parker who would display that level of dedication. In hiring new coaches, he sought candidates whose energy was contagious, whose passion was evident, and who took the time during their interviews to emphasize the development of student athletes.

“We always tell our players, ‘You’re leaving your legacy.’

They’re playing for themselves, for the School, and for the legacy of the program and the alumni who came before them.”

- Coach John Herman

A good coach, John says, is imperative to the students’ overall educational experience.

The goal is not just to improve players, but to inspire them.

This belief connects many generations of Parker athletes. It’s also the reason why many former Parker athletes return to coach the sport they love at the School they love.

“Alumni coaches understand the environment of the School and the demands that are placed on our students,” says John.

“They come back because they know their time as an athlete was instrumental in their development and they want to give that to their own players.”

“The expectations are higher at Parker, and

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that’s a good thing,” John says. “Our athletes are stretched and pulled to levels they didn’t know they could reach. Parker’s legacy helps with that.”

John has already worked on a few projects with incoming Athletic Director Anthony Thomas, and he is confident that the department’s new leader will continue the great work already underway.

“Anthony is going to hit the ground running,” John says. “He’s got a lot of experience, he’s a relationship-builder, and he’s very collaborative in how he does things. I’m really looking forward to working with him.” n

Coming Home ALUMNI COACH ANDREW VASSILIADIS ’01

BY MELISSA BELTZ Coach Andrew Vassiliadis ’01 was in his fifth year working at Parker’s athletic rival, The Bishop’s School, when he got the phone call.

“It’s time to come home,” the voice on the other end said. Through tears, Andrew accepted the invitation to return to his alma mater as coach, and five years later, he’s still home.

Andrew coaches year-round at Parker.

Andrew Vassiliadis ’01 He is head coach of the boys junior varsity beach volleyball team in the fall, assistant coach of the boys junior varsity soccer team in the winter, and assistant coach of the boys varsity indoor volleyball team in the spring.

He was a lifer at Parker, growing up in the halls of the Mission Hills and Linda Vista Campuses from Junior Kindergarten through Grade 12.

Andrew was also an athlete. He played soccer as a young kid, and was introduced to indoor volleyball in middle school by his now-colleague, head coach John Herman.

Andrew’s senior year was his most difficult, not just academically but also personally. His late father, Laki Vassiliadis, was battling cancer and it could have been easy for Andrew to slip through the cracks had it not been for the caring hand of Coach Herman.

“Herm was like a second father to me. He made sure I was still going to all of my classes and to all of our practices. It’s something I’ll never forget,” says Andrew.

John’s devotion to Andrew’s well-being made Andrew want to do the same for other young athletes.

“Herm was a bright light for a lot of us that played under him. I thought about how influential Herm was to me and I wanted to give back too,” says Andrew.

Andrew has now been coaching for about 10 years.

Above: Incoming Athletic Director Anthony Thomas addresses Parker coaches and students at the Sports Banquet in May 2018.

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“Seeing my players grow—as people, not just as athletes—from their freshman to senior year is the best part. I’m grateful and I’m humbled to coach at Parker,” he says. n

LEGENDARY STATUS DAVE GLASSEY INDUCTED INTO CALIFORNIA BASEBALL COACHES HALL OF HONOREES

BY MELISSA BELTZ Longtime varsity baseball coach David Glassey was inducted into the California Baseball Coaches’ Association Hall of Honorees in June, receiving recognition at a special ceremony during the annual North South baseball series at the University of California, San Diego.

Allen ’17, who was drafted by the Oakland A’s in 2017, and Jonah Davis ’15, who was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates this past June. Nick Noonan ’07 and Jose Vizcaino Jr. ’12 were drafted by the San Francisco Giants, and Kyle Dowdy ’11 was drafted by the Detroit Tigers.

Dave coached at Parker for 38 years, winning nine CIF championships and sending many of his baseball players on to the collegiate and professional levels. He established a career record of more than 600 wins, and he was named a CIF runner-up seven times throughout his career.

John Herman, the 2017-2018 interim athletic director, and boys volleyball coach, has worked with Dave for nearly three decades. He lauded Dave’s commitment to his sport and his players.

In his final season as Parker’s varsity baseball coach, Dave saw his team finish 22-10 and play in the CIF Division 2 Championship game.

“Dave is passionate about baseball and, more importantly, having a positive influence on the young men he coaches,” John says. “His legacy is ingrained in the lives of the hundreds of athletes he has impacted in his 38 years of coaching.” n

“I enjoy the challenge that comes with coaching and watching the players come together as a team,” Dave says. “Coaching gives me the opportunity to help them learn how to deal with failure. Baseball is a game of failure; you fail more than you succeed.”

When you do succeed, however, those successes are spectacular. In the last few years, Dave has watched several former players move on to play professionally, including Nick

Above: Coach David Glassey (top row right) coaches the baseball team after a game at Parker’s Linda Vista Campus.

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go lancers!

The Sports Banquet is an annual Parker tradition that celebrates the accomplishments of student athletes. Coaches, athletes, and their families gather together in the Field House to celebrate the many on- and off-the-field accomplishments of the athletes and their teams.

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IMAGE GUIDE 1 | Francis Lang ʼ18; Avi Waldman ʼ18; Coach Matt Schellenberg; Zach Hall ʼ18; Tanner Penrose ʼ18 2 | Olivia Thorson ʼ18; Maddy Considine, Class of 2021 3 | Navya Dhir ʼ18; Coach Amber Hendrix; Sarina Jassy ʼ18

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4 | Bryan Shaw ʼ18; Coach Matt Morrison ʼ05; Ryan Sanborn, Class of 2019 5 | Nick Gustafson, Class of 2019; Madelaine Giek, Class of 2021; Coach Cecile Santini 6 | Cole Harris ʼ18; Jack Joslin ʼ18; Coach Rebekah Schiff 7 | Collin Green ʼ18; Coach John Herman; David Barrett ʼ18 8 | Samantha Clarke ʼ18; Caitlin Rowlings, Class of 2020; Coach Mackenzie White

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9 | Aeriel Sundt ʼ18; Coach Audra Dent; Hannah Blood ʼ18 10 | Adam Nussbaum, Class of 2019; Coach Sam Busby; Carlos Heredia, Class of 2019 11 | Kimo Ferrari, Class of 2020; Coach Jim Tomey; Hunter Penrose ʼ18 12 | Giselle Alota ʼ18; Coach Jeremiah Pelaiz; Coach Alex Salazar; Jula Harrington ʼ18 13 | Ben Krongard ʼ18; Coach Jarrad Phillips; Henry Diamond-Pott ʼ18

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14 | Lakme Caceres ʼ18; Coach Marc Thiebach; Rebecca Siegler ʼ18 15 | Zach Hall ʼ18; Pratyek Koppolu ʼ18 16 | Bryce Neels ʼ18; Coach David Glassey; Sterling Hayes ʼ18 17 | Jordan Ryan, Class of 2019; Coach Jack Klein; Nicholas Trimble, Class of 2019 18 | Nick Meurer ʼ18; Coach Dave McCarthy; Holden Enniss ʼ18

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19 | Isabella Cady ʼ18; Coach Katie Love; Emily Potts ʼ18 20 | Bea Thomas ʼ18; Coach Heather Dunn; Hannah Blood ʼ18 21 | Nicole Kim, Class of 2019; Coach Dan Egan; Katie Austin, Class of 2020 22 | Nick Miller ʼ18; Coach Mackenzie White; Ashkon Aghassi ʼ18 23 | Avi Waldman ʼ18; Jack Sachrison ʼ18; Coach DJ Walcott; Theodore Sacamay ʼ18; Kendra Winhall, Class of 2021

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24 | JT Melbourn ʼ18; Coach John Herman; Nick Gustafson, Class of 2019 25 | Coach Heather Dunn; Bea Thomas ʼ18; Coach Audra Dent; Elina Pepper ʼ18; Coach Marc Thiebach; Collin Green ʼ18; Coach Jarrad Phillips; Bryce Neels ʼ18; Coach David Glassey 26 | John Romero ʼ84; Sterling Hayes ʼ18; Cole Harris ʼ18

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LEAVING A LASTING IMPACT : RETIRING FACULTY AND STAFF

Rose Hanscom Upper School Science Teacher

BY TIFFANY YU STUDENTS AND COLLEAGUES DESCRIBE UPPER SCHOOL SCIENCE TEACHER ROSE HANSCOM AS THE MOST LOVING, WARM PERSON FROM WHOM YOU’LL EVER LEARN SCIENCE. After 38 years at Parker, Rose is retiring to devote her time and energy to people who enjoy her attention and warmth as much as her students have: her grandchildren.

Rose isn’t one of those teachers who had a passion for the classroom from the very beginning. In fact, she never thought she wanted to be a teacher. It was through her former husband, a high school teacher himself, that she discovered the joy of teaching. Rose soon decided that she wanted a teaching credential of her own, and began teaching chemistry and algebra at Parker in 1980.

and they are so supportive of one another in all that they do.

It’s really wonderful to see.”

Dedication to excellence is another common thread among students.

“We have a lot of high-end classes, including AP chemistry, AP environmental science, and AP physics, and the kids seem to like them,” she says. “They don’t have to take them, but they do.”

Rose’s favorite Parker tradition is the annual alumni reunion, which allows her to reconnect with her former students.

“I just love seeing them, and they know that I’m still all about students,” she says. “I think they can tell that I love them very much.”

“I liked this age group from the first time I started teaching high school,” Rose says. “I did wonder at the time, ‘What if I don’t like the teenagers?’ But, if anything, I loved them more.”

One thing that’s certain is that Rose will not lose her connection to Parker. Two of her grandchildren are students at the School, and her daughter Gretchen Hanscom Taylor ’92 and son-in-law Eric Taylor both teach here.

Over the years, Rose says, so many characteristics of her students have not changed.

“We have been very blessed,” Rose says. “It has been so wonderful having my family at Parker all these years.”

“The students are so kind here,” she explains. “They’re ‘into’ learning. They realize that it’s something they want to do,

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Michael Crone Lower School Design Teacher

THEY CALL HIM THE “LOWER SCHOOL MACGYVER” BECAUSE OF HIS ABILITY TO MAKE ANYTHING OUT OF SPARE PARTS AND LOOSE ENDS.

classroom teachers—have helped students to live the magic of Parker’s design-thinking motto: “Dream. Do. Try.”

Mike Crone ’77, Lower School Design Teacher, better known as “Coach Crone,” has decided to retire after 37 years at Parker.

Reflecting on his time at Parker and the many hats he has worn, Mike says the most rewarding part of his job has been seeing his students flex their creative muscles and create incredible pieces using the tools they’ve been given.

Mike’s love for the School started in 1969 when his father, Dr. Douglas Crone, became Parker’s eighth headmaster, and Mike himself became a student. He graduated, went on to college, and quickly found his way back to the School, joining the faculty in 1981.

His students imagine Coach’s retirement will consist of taking naps, eating ice cream, and enjoying airplane rides, but Mike says he isn’t going too far from Parker. He plans to stay on the substitute teacher list so he can return to the design lab and to the students whom he loves.

Coach Crone got his nickname from his time teaching physical education at the Lower School and coaching football and baseball at the Upper School. The name stuck with him even though he made the full-time switch to teaching Lower School design and woodshop many years ago.

Parker is one of few schools in San Diego that still offers a woodshop class, and Mike played an integral role in growing that class into a full design lab that serves as a hub of studentcentered creativity and inspiration.

Mike and the rest of the Parker design team—which includes library, science, drama, woodshop, art, technology, and

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LEAVING A LASTING IMPACT : RETIRING FACULTY AND STAFF

Patrice Powell College Counseling Assistant/Registrar

COLLEGE COUNSELING WAS A VERY DIFFERENT PLACE WHEN PATRICE POWELL JOINED THE TEAM IN 1999.

Glossy viewbooks, rather than websites, were the primary way to get to know various universities. College applications were typed, and submitting materials online was not an option. Despite adjustments in the process as new technologies became available, one thing has not changed: the department’s commitment to matching students with the right college for them.

Pat, as she is better known to her colleagues and students, has been a constant in that process, helping to ensure the post-graduation future of hundreds of Parker seniors. She shares the pride that the entire School community feels in being able to say that 100 percent of Parker students are accepted to a four-year college or university.

As registrar, Pat got to know the students well as she helped to shepherd them through their college application process, making sure they had the test scores, transcripts, and other paperwork needed for wherever they were headed.

Pat’s career was in the education field from start to finish.

She began work in the San Dieguito Union High School District in 1972 and worked for 13 years at Torrey Pines High School before coming to Parker.

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What brought Pat the most joy during her time at Parker was seeing students receive acceptance letters from their colleges of choice. She knew how much time and effort went into the search behind each of those letters, and every one was a reason to celebrate.

In retirement, Pat will have time to focus on the celebrations that lie ahead for her own family, especially for her grandchildren. She also plans to travel.

Victoria Helms Upper School Math Teacher

“I LOVED BEING A SUBSTITUTE,” VICTORIA HELMS RECALLS OF HER EARLIEST DAYS AT PARKER. “IT WAS FASCINATING TO SEE WHAT ALL THE TEACHERS WERE TEACHING AND THEIR METHODS FOR THE CLASSROOM.” Though she enjoyed substituting, the idea of teaching math full-time soon became a calling Victoria couldn’t ignore. A former colleague encouraged her to go for it, recognizing her aptitude for communicating concepts to students.

Chairmanʼs Awards and championships and enjoys the diversity of opportunity that it offers students.

“There are so many aspects of the team—builders, programmers, drivers, marketing folks,” she says. “There is something for everyone” Though she is retiring from Parker, Victoria says she can’t stay away from the classroom completely. She plans to substitute at schools in her local neighborhood in Fallbrook. n

Twe nty-five ye ars on, Victoria is re tiring, le aving the classroom where she has become a fixture. What will stay with her most are the memories of her students, whom, thanks to Parker’s small classes, she got to know very well, not only in terms of their learning styles and needs, but also as people.

“My favorite days were when I gave the students something they had never seen before,” she says. “I know they have the tools to figure out the problem. It’s exciting to see them find that they can solve it with all the skills and tools they have acquired. I think they appreciate learning more when they discover it for themselves.”

Outside of the classroom, Victoria has been a great supporter of the Upper School robotics team. Named their “Number 1 fan,” Victoria has supported the team through multiple

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parker reunion On April 28, alumni from the classes of 1973, 1978, 1983, 1988, 1993, 1998 and 2003 celebrated their milestone reunions at class gatherings across San Diego. Thank you to our volunteer Reunion Committees for making the events a success.

1988

BALLAST POINT IN LITTLE ITALY

Reunion Committee members: Dan Frazee ’88 and Kim Broderick Piggins ’88

1998 OMNIA NIGHTCLUB IN THE GASLAMP DISTRICT

Reunion Committee members: Heidi Taniguchi Hartwig ’98, Michelle Levine Norris ’98, and Lauren Heiser Stangel ’98

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1983 OLD TOWN TEQUILA FACTORY

Reunion Committee members: Bo Woods ’83

1978 SHAKESPEARE'S PUB IN MISSION HILLS

Reunion Committee members: Joth Layton ’78 and Peter Price ’78

1993 PARK AND REC IN UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS

Reunion Committee members: Lauren Hirsch ’93, Tory Rodger Palacek ’93, and Andy Zlotnik ’93

2003 BERNARDO WINERY IN RANCHO BERNARDO

Reunion Committee members: Jeff Goodall ’03, Sara Noonan ’03, and Dana Schaefer Peters ’03

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FPS Events

Throughout the year, the Alumni Office holds daytime activities and evening receptions around the country with current and retired Parker faculty in attendance. This year, the School traveled to Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York City, visiting Parker alumni along the way. Below are photos from FPS events this year.

FPS in Los Angeles

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FPS in San Francisco

FPS in San Diego

FPS in N.Y.C.

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CLASS NOTES 1 | Michelle Taylor Steinhubel ’88

lives in Washington State with her family. Upon graduation from Parker, she completed dental school and a general residency then served in the Air Force before settling down in the Pacific Northwest.

2 | Kimo Tuyay ’00, partner at

5 | Michael Weil ’10 graduated

Summa Cum Laude from the University of Pennsylvania Law in May 2018. He was inducted into the Order of the Coif, a prestigious honor society for students who earn a Juris Doctor degree and graduate in the top 10 percent of their class.

Maui Nui Venison, is proud that his company is supporting the Kahikinui Project, part of a reforestation effort on the island of Maui.

College, where she was awarded the Berger Prize for Outstanding Senior Woman and a Fletcher Jones Research Fellow in Psychology.

Claire will pursue autism research at Weill Cornell Medical Center.

Mark Klein ’14 graduated with honors from USC and has accepted a position with Ernst & Young in San Francisco.

9 | Jonah Davis ’15 was drafted by

the Pittsburgh Pirates on day three of the MLB draft. Jonah played outfielder for the Cal Bears at the University of California, Berkeley for three seasons.

10 | Sarah Ogle ’15 was selected to represent the Carleton College womens softball team on the All-MIAC Sportsmanship Team.

11 | Rachel Bruno ’16, middle 6 | Alex Adler ’11, co-owner of

3 | Ben Campbell ’05 is a Ph.D.

Candidate at Weill Cornell Medical College where he recently published a paper on his groundbreaking sub cellular sensor that measures oxidative stress in the brain in real time. Dave Campbell ’07 just received a Masters Degree in Marriage Family Therapy at Phillips Graduate University, where he graduated with Summa Cum Laude honors, and is pursuing a Ph.D. in Psychology at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology.

Puesto, opened a new restaurant location in Santa Clara, California in May 2018. This marks the fourth Puesto restaurant, in addition to their locations in La Jolla, Irvine, and San Diego.

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WEDDINGS

7 | Evan Fitzner ’14 signed to play

with the Indiana University Hoosiers basketball team for the 2018-19 season. Evan joins the Hoosiers as a graduate transfer, having played for four seasons at St. Maryʼs College.

12 | Emily Ziering Greene ’05

4 | Megan Swim ’08 started

a position as a Postdoctoral Research Scholar in the Neil Chi Lab at the University of California, San Diego, in April 2018. Her focus is on the mechanisms that take place during embryonic development of the heart, including a project that uses bio-printing to investigate the mechanisms.

blocker at Bentley University, was selected for the 2017 Academic All-Northeast-10 Conference team for womens volleyball.

married Michael Greene at Costerra on Nov. 11, 2017. Sarah Ziering Katz ’02, and Courtney Rains Giometti ’05 were attendants.

8 | Claire Klein ’14 graduated with honors from Claremont McKenna

CLASS NOTES

BIRTHS

Pictured left to right: Michael Keating ’05, Jared Wells ’05, Lauren Davis da Rosa ’05, Cary Ross ’05, Garrett Shannon ’05, Kramer Sharp ’05, April Segal, Matthew Segal ’05, Nick LaPointe ’05, Whitney Goodall Wightman ’05, Nathan Tobiason ’05, Tessa Floodberg LaPointe ’05

19 | Mark Brandon ’73 passed away 16 | Rachel Reichman Bielski ’01

and husband Joseph welcomed son Roman Leonard Bielski on April 4.

13 | Matt Segal ’05 married Avery Segal in McCall, Idaho on Feb. 17.

on March 10. Mark is survived by his wife Susan and his children Christy ’07, Joseph ’09, and Catherine ’16.

He is also survived by his parents Milan and Mary Brandon, his brothers Donald ’80 and Jeffrey ’75, and many nieces and nephews.

20 | Melissa Brennan ’91 passed

away in May 2018. Melissa is survived by her husband Mace, her daughter Maddie, and her brothers James ’96 and Justin ’98.

17 | Tessa Floodberg LaPointe ’05 14 | Griffin Barra ’11 married Neva

Sanfilippo at Rancho Valencia on May 5.

and Nick LaPointe ’05 welcomed son Henry Emmett LaPointe on June 3.

The healthy baby weighed 6 lb, 7 oz.

IN MEMORIUM 18 | Ann JaCoby Willens ’72 passed away on March 1. Ann is survived by her husband of 40 years Dan, sons Alex and Matt, daughterin-law Jess, mother-in-law Rita, loving family, and good friends.

15 | Dalante Dunklin ’12 married

Alayna Dunklin on April 12 at Coto de Caza in Orange County, California.

21 | Tyler Mabry ’07 passed away

on May 5. Tyler was a dynamic presence on and off the football field, and beloved at Parker. He will be remembered as a larger-than-life Lancer who exuded positive energy, a genuine care for others, and a love for learning and sports. Tyler is survived by his parents Quince and Rondey and his sister Tara ’04.

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Grandparents at Parker Francis Parker School welcomes studentsʼ grandparents to our special grandparent community. Parker has a unique group who oversees the grandparent community, the Grandparents Council (GPC). The GPC was established in 2003 to engage grandparents in the life of the School and promote their support of its mission. Whether you live in or out of state, the GPC welcomes grandparents and surrogate grandparents to get involved, stay involved, and have fun.

Join the GPC Benefits of being a member of the Grandparents Council include: • • • • •

Exclusive events and meetings Access to Grandparent Council Directory Parker Family Connection e-newsletter Volunteer opportunities on Campus FREE membership

Visit francisparker.org/grandparents to learn more

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PARKER MOMENT

Grade 7 students conclude their study of European history with the annual Renaissance Fair—a day-long immersion into medieval life including performances, hands-on exhibits, and lessons in medieval activities such as dancing and archery.

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the

PARKER DIFFERENCE Parker graduates are prepared for college and beyond

SENIOR ENGAGEMENT In 2018 Upper School students completed internships with: Number of community service hours completed

by Upper School students in 2017–2018

Senator Toni Atkins Sharp Hospital Rady Children’s Hospital Qualcomm Birch Aquarium La Jolla Playhouse San Diego Superior Court Venture Capital

I realized my life goal was to become a lawyer after participating in speech and mock trial at Parker, as well as thoroughly enjoying my government and history classes. Parker also provided me with outstanding internships to expand my interests in the field of law.

— Parker Graduate

Independent school graduates who participate in experiential learning are more likely to be engaged at work and have higher rates of well being later in life.1

LIFE SKILLS Approximately

Public speaking Contributing to class discussions Taking a leadership role

of recent graduates felt Parker helped prepare them with:

Working collaboratively on a team Balancing a full workload

RESOURCES & SUPPORT

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Empathizing with others Appreciating and/or participating in the arts Maintaining an active/healthy lifestyle

Full-time college counselors

950:1

35:1

The ratio of students to college counselors at CA public schools2

The ratio of students to college counselors at Parker

PARKER MAGAZINE SUMMER 2018

Being creative and innovative

Upper School grade-level deans In-house test prep center ... to help Parker students maximize the college application process

SAT SCORES In 2017, Parker students scored an average of 328 points higher than the national average on the SAT test3

“Parker gave me the confidence to believe I could accomplish great things, and it sparked my passion for non-profit work and helping the less fortunate.”

— Parker Graduate

COLLEGE ACCEPTANCES

The Class of 2018 will attend

72 30

different colleges across of seniors were admitted to a “Most Competive” or “Highly Competitive” college in 20184

states, Washington, D.C. and internationally

SUCCESS IN COLLEGE

of 2018 graduates felt that Parker prepared them to succeed in college

of recent Parker graduates currently have a B average or higher at their college

MOST COMMON MAJORS OF RECENT PARKER GRADUATES

Parker graduates are more likely to complete college on time, and receive a degree from the first college they attend

MOST COMMON CAREER INTEREST AREAS OF RECENT PARKER GRADUATES

Business

English/Literature

Business

Technology

Engineering

Economics

Medicine/Dentistry

Arts

Technology

Chemistry

Law

Biological, Environmental or Physical Sciences

Health-Related Fields

Education

Community Service/Social Sector

International Relations

Science

Journalism/ Communications

1. NAIS-Gallup Report on NAIS Graduates, Gallup, Inc. 2. California school counseling ratio falls behind, The California Aggie 3. NAIS 2015-16 SAT Test Scores Report, NAIS 4. According to list provided by Barron’s Profiles of American Colleges

CONNECT WITH PARKER ALUMNI ON

linkedin.com/school/francisparkerschool

SUMMER 2018 PARKER MAGAZINE

47

From the

ARCHIVES

For over 36 years, the Parents Association has supported the School through the efforts of the annual Gala. Each year, Gala chairs unveil an inspiring new theme that makes the event one not to miss.

Shown here is a sampling of Gala event program covers from over the years. Each year, Gala chairs produce this event hand-in-hand with a small army of volunteers. The School is very thankful for the time, treasure, and talent of the Parker community that goes into imagining, planning, and producing the Gala.

Funds raised from the Gala and Day of Giving combine to support Parker student financial assistance and faculty professional development.

48

PARKER MAGAZINE SUMMER 2018

Your gifts keep parker edging forward

Thank you, Parker parents, alumni, grandparents, students, and friends for your generosity throughout the year.

CONGRATULATIONS Parker congratulates the 2018 varsity sailing team for taking second place at the 2018 Interscholastic Sailing Association High School Double-handed Fleet Race National Championship Regatta.

Your support ensures that Parker students reach “as far as the mind can see.” Plan your 2018-2019 giving and be a part of advancing Parker’s mission.

FRANCISPARKER.ORG/GIVING

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DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARD CALL FOR NOMINATIONS

The Francis Parker School Distinguished Alumni Award is presented to an alumnus/a who embodies the ideals of intellect, initiative, and social responsibility which are the very essence of a Parker education. This individual is one who has demonstrated remarkable leadership in their field of endeavor, attained local and/or national recognition, and has made an outstanding contribution to the School, community, or country. Visit francisparker.org/alumni for more information or to submit a nomination.