Perkiomen SUMMER 2020
MAGAZINE
FOR ALUMNI, STUDENTS, FAMILIES, FACULTY, AND FRIENDS
on the cover: The 2019-2020 school year was like no other. The effects of COVID-19 caused campus to close, students to return home, and the Perkiomen School community to quickly pivot and embrace Virtual Perkiomen – distance learning with students around the globe. Even while experiencing half the year on campus and half the year online, we remained uniquely Perkiomen, dedicated to innovation, exploration, and living our motto of Solvitur vivendo – solving through living. Learn more on page 4. this page: Purple & Gold Games brings out the competitive nature in all of us, but also aims to bring us closer together. Read more about this year’s shift in the games, on page 8.
Perkiomen
MAGAZINE SUMMER 2020
Head of School Mark A. Devey
Editorial Staff Diana J. Gleeson, P ’19, P ’23 Bernadette Kovaleski
Letter from Head of School
3
Virtual Perkiomen
4
The Benefit of Independence
6
Purple & Gold Games
8
Sports Recap
10
2020 Commencement
12
Perkiomen Resolved
14
Our Moment to Lead, Together
18
Tony DeOliveira
Our Moment To Lead A Three-Phase Campaign
21
Photography
Alumni Weekend
24
In Memoriam
24
Class Notes
26
X Marks The Spot
30
Contributors Meghan Malloy Abigail Rose-Craver ’14 Diana Weir-Smith ’85, P ’19
Design
Bernadette Kovaleski Tim Miller Caleb Moyer ’20 Jorge Ramirez Jody Robinson
P E R K I O M E N M AG A Z I N E
S U M M E R 2020
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UNIQU
PERKIO 2
P E R K I O M E N M AG A Z I N E
Dear Perkiomen Community,
Our graduates will have a unique set of memories and a connection that may run deeper than any other class. As our Alma Mater says,
When we gathered in August, eagerly anticipating the start of a
“bonds of union, bonds of friendship, bonds of endless love.”
new school year, no one could have predicted how the 2019-2020 academic year would actually play out. I am proud to share that
Now that our students have completed the academic year, and at the
regardless of the enormity of the challenges we were facing, we
time of this printing, we remain focused on a single goal – to open
headed into the spring with confidence. Reminding ourselves we
campus, return to face-to-face instruction in the fall, and deliver the
are, after all, Perkiomen.
excellent, experiential learning experience that defines Perkiomen. We’re enthusiastic about the plans our robust task force has laid out,
Perkiomen is strong. Our school has faced challenges in its history:
and should our situation change, we will be ready to adapt.
destructive fire, loss of students to World Wars, leadership changes, and yet it stands, even stronger on the other side. Together we move
As we plan for the future, we cannot be silent about what is
forward, step by step—united.
happening now in the United States and around the world. These are challenging moments for a nation that was founded on principles of
On March 16, our entire faculty and staff team met virtually to
equality and freedoms.
connect, prepare for remote teaching, and to ask and answer questions as we all headed into a spring full of unknowns. The
Perkiomen School does not tolerate racism of any kind and stands
majority of questions revolved around students’ well-being and
firmly in support of our Black community members. We have
safety, their ability to access teachers and lessons, and how faculty
created a culture that offers students voice and choice – yet we
could best serve students in a quickly-changing environment.
know that we can’t pick and choose when to ask the hard questions.
UELY
Upon deep reflection, I find myself asking the same question over
This is what makes Perkiomen, well, Perkiomen. Students come first
and over in my head – what can I do about this? I know I don’t have
and teachers are dedicated to each individual’s success - whatever
the answers but I am determined to continue taking steps in the right
the situation is. Four days went by, and together we launched our
direction and make fighting for equality a higher priority for myself
first day of Virtual Perkiomen – distance learning with students
and for Perkiomen.
around the globe. Every day since March 16, I have witnessed the
power and resiliency of our community. I cannot fully express the
This summer we are offering space for students, faculty, staff,
admiration I have for our entire team of faculty and staff.
alumni and families to gather and have honest conversations about race – to ask questions, to listen, and to share. I invite you to join us.
We didn’t just teach the required academic courses; we remained
Follow @perkiomendiversity on Instagram for resource sharing and
uniquely Perkiomen. Coaches held workouts via Zoom. Experts
information on next steps. We will continue this work through the
and industry leaders spoke with students during special X-Period
school year and beyond. Please look for emails from me and from
classes – including four presenters who are alumni of Perkiomen
the Office of Alumni and Development as we continue to strengthen
School. Students hosted meaningful discussions during Social
our community.
OMEN Justice Week and some showed off their cooking skills. We held fast
to our traditions and embraced new formats for events, still coming
On behalf of all of us, we thank you for the ways you are supporting
together to celebrate in this unprecedented time.
each other and our community as a whole. As I have shared before,
the Perkiomen community digs in, gets started, and pushes through.
Let’s not forget that the first half of our school year had much for us to
We work to solve through living. We are all in this together, and as we
celebrate – the return of the Kriebel Hall carillon chime, the first ever
have before, we will come out stronger on the other side.
state championship for the Keystone State 8-Player Football League, numerous league championships, a fantastic performance of High
Be well,
School Musical, a beautiful gathering for Vespers, our math team
ranking third in the state, our Second Annual Disrupting Education Symposium, and more.
Mark A. Devey
Please join me in sending good thoughts and wishes to our Class of
2020. Even if this wasn’t the year we had imagined, we are fortunate.
Head of School
We are blessed with a community that cares deeply for one another.
S U M M E R 2020
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Vi r t u a l When the spread of COVID-19 and national and state guidelines made it apparent that Perkiomen would need to shift to a virtual platform this spring, a team of Administrators met to formulate possible options for pivoting to distance learning. By mid-March, we put the plan in place.
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P E R K I O M E N M AG A Z I N E
Perkiomen “Virtual Perkiomen” was seen as an opportunity to experience an
In establishing norms and guiding principles for this plan, a few key
educational shift while being responsive to our external priority
features were established.
of safety. Our goal was to deliver high-quality teaching and learning while following best practices for health and security. “Our faculty had to adapt what they did in the classroom for a digital platform without the usual time to prepare,” says Jonathan Moser ’97, Head of Upper School. “This required a tremendous amount of creativity and courage on the part of our teachers. Our students also rose up and met new challenges, acclimating to their courses in a different format. In the end, I believe we were
• Keep distance learning simple and intuitive to cause the least amount of disruption as possible for students and faculty. • Maintain structural work expectations for students and faculty. • Foster community and ensure Virtual Perkiomen is still “Perkiomen.”
successful in maintaining our community of learning through a global crisis. We truly lived a combination of our mission and
A modified daily schedule was implemented on weekdays from 8
motto, risking to be our best and solving through living. As an
am to 1:20 pm EDT with academic support available by subject
alumni and long time faculty member, I have never felt more affection for Perkiomen than I do right now.”
t Musician Trevor Gordon Hall joined Perkiomen as an X-period presenter. In addition to performing, Hall answered questions from the community, discussed innovation, described his creative process, and reminded students to keep the wonder alive.
continued next page
q Via the Zoom platform, students and faculty could interact with each other from locations all over the world. The Student Life department organized cooking demonstrations, a pet show and tell, and other programs to keep the community connected outside of classes and Advisory.
S U M M E R 2020
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Virtual Perkiomen continued from previous page
if a student could not attend the live class due to a difference in time zones. Faculty were accessible for Conference period and an
from 7:30 to 9:30 pm EDT Monday through Thursday. Virtual
Academic Support period at opposite times of the day so all students
Morning Meeting resumed on Mondays, followed by daily
could access one-on-one assistance either in the morning or evening.
Advisory group meetings throughout the rest of the week. X-Periods were added weekly, as an opportunity to have a virtual Because of our global community, both synchronous and
experience outside of the typical subject work where students and
asynchronous classes were planned. Recordings could be accessed
faculty could interact with experts in their fields. We hosted professionals
THE BENEFIT OF INDEPENDENCE An Independent School is driven by its own unique philosophy, values, and approach to teaching. When a crisis like COVID-19 hits, an Independent School like Perkiomen has the flexibility and the power to make its own decisions – decisions that benefit the students directly and maintain consistency in delivering education. In the spring, Perkiomen’s History and Social Sciences Department Head Amanda Mock (pictured above) shared her personal perspective on how online instruction was working in private schools. Across the country, independent schools are doing what we do best, hitting the ground running and employing all of our resources to make sure our students continue to learn. We have a number of unique advantages that allow us to maintain essential programming and to innovate across the board in ways that maximize learning during these unsettling times. Because much of my teaching career has been in public schools, I have many contacts in the public setting who are lamenting the ways instruction has been reduced to a mere semblance of education. In one state, schools have been closed but some teachers are required to post optional assignments; one can imagine the lackluster results. In another state, my friends have moved online, but the red tape involved in getting technology into students’ hands coupled with a largely asynchronous model, are also resulting in low levels of student engagement. In the private school world, we know every child. We are already aware of their unique situation and can proactively and compassionately work to circumvent challenges. Whether my students are in Pennsylvania or Hebei, I know they are still learning and engaged; they are excited to actively participate in Zoom, post lengthy and enlightened thoughts to discussion boards, and are responsive to emails. For the few of my students who were not as responsive at first, a quick conversation with their advisor or Learning Center teacher has created productive momentum. Why are my students so invested when my friends and
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P E R K I O M E N M AG A Z I N E
family members in education face seemingly insurmountable issues? I do teach a number of AP courses, but so do the individuals I speak to in public schools, so that cannot be a full explanation. Honestly, I believe the answer is directly tied to the environment cultivated at Perkiomen School. Perkiomen has always been dedicated to the growth of each individual. The relationships we have with our students and department members remain strong. The expectation is that advisors, teachers, and department heads are fully invested in shepherding each person through the learning process. Now that we are online, our foundational programming remains in place and is occasionally even enhanced. In my role as History and Social Science Department Head, I have found more time to have those all-important check-ins with students and teachers on my team. I can meet with my advisees individually or in pairs, which allows for longer and more authentic conversations. I have also had time to open up ongoing text and email conversations with each history teacher as opposed to a fleeting interaction in the hall. Perkiomen expects engagement. We are a “participation required” school and always have been. Students know I will contact them repeatedly, engage the help of the team, and follow through until they meet or exceed expectations. In the virtual environment, just as in the school building, there is no hiding and failure is not an option. Having strong structures in place has allowed Perkiomen to quickly get students rolling in a new environment. I am proud that we were able to implement our virtual programming with only four days of teacher preparation. As we continue to pull together and strengthen our ties, we remain connected to our students, families, and the broader Perkiomen community. Honestly, I think this is the secret to our success when it comes to online instruction. No school was ready for the challenges of COVID-19, but of all the educators I have spoken with, I have concluded my school was the most prepared. We all know the current situation is like nothing we have ever experienced. Private schools have a unique opportunity to leverage our close ties with students and with one another to continue providing top-tier instruction. I am excited to be part of a thriving community of dedicated educators and feel confident in our ability to meet the needs of our students, regardless of whether we are physically present on campus.
from the medical, research and manufacturing fields, an architect, and
With the files in hand and after one test run, in early April,
two musicians. (Please see the related article on page 30.)
Coordinator of the Artificial Intelligence Institute Allison Rodgers and Mr. Yorgey began 3D printing disposable stethoscopes to
“Challenge creates opportunity and I could not be prouder
donate to St. Luke’s. This equipment would become critical.
of the way students and faculty have creatively explored the opportunities,” says Director of Strategic Innovation Shaun T.
“At first we weren’t sure how the equipment would be used,” said
Yorgey ’97, who organized the X-period presentations. “Many of
Mr. Yorgey, “but came to understand that each scope is assigned
the lessons we as a school and greater society have learned during
to a COVID-19 patient. It is left in their room in isolation for the
this experience will fuel change into the future, and there will be
duration of their hospitalization. This way there is a reduction of
tangible benefits mixed into the challenges.”
the possibility of cross contamination from one patient to the next.”
When we launched our first official day of Virtual Perkiomen – 148
Avoiding contact with each other and with appropriate protection,
Zoom classes, Advisory sessions, and academic help sessions took
Mrs. Rodgers started the printing process in the Innovation Center
place with students and faculty connecting from the United States,
and Mr. Yorgey removed the finished stethoscopes. They were able
to Germany, Korea, Japan, China, Russia, Spain, and Australia
to print about two a day.
– from on-campus apartments in Kriebel to living rooms and bedrooms around the world.
“Mrs. Rodgers has been instrumental in the creation of hundreds of stethoscopes,” says Mr. Yorgey. “In addition to printing, she is
“The Perkiomen experience - the personal connections with faculty
repairing and maintaining the machines. Anyone who has used
and advisors, the learning that happens beyond the bell, and the
a 3D printer knows how fickle they can be. As they have been
recognition of each person’s talents and contributions – inspires
running on a constant basis for weeks, numerous failed prints and
students to be their best and to be courageous,” says Mark A.
the need to adjust, reset and repair machines has been constant.
Devey, Head of School. “Distance learning did not inhibit that
We plan to continue to print and deliver by-weekly until the need
and even though we were not on campus together that essence
no longer exists.”
of Perkiomen did not change. Our community continued to work, learn, and grow together, embodying our motto of Solvitur vivendo – it is solved through living. I was reminded that we are all teachers and learners, supporting each other’s well-being, through everyday tasks and in defining moments.” HELPING OUR NEIGHBORS During the first week of May, Director of Strategic Innovation Shaun T. Yorgey ‘97 delivered more than 2,000 gloves from the science department and 1,000 masks donated by students to St. Luke’s University Health Network along with an initial donation of 50 disposable stethoscopes, printed with Perkiomen’s 3D printers on campus in the Innovation Center. Looking for ways to support our local health care workers, Perkiomen School reached out to St. Luke’s to ask how we could help. Megan Augustine, M.Ed., Director of their Network Simulation Center, has been printing disposable protective equipment and sent files to Perkiomen to see if we could print apparatus with our 3D printers.
u Using the 3D printers in the Innovation Center, Perkiomen faculty Allison Rodgers and Shaun Yorgey ’97 were able to print and donate disposable stethoscopes to St. Luke’s Hospital for use with COVID-19 patients. S U M M E R 2020
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In a year of so many uninvited changes, it is almost ironic that we had planned a shift for one of our favorite Perkiomen traditions. Purple & Gold Games are a friendly competition, an opportunity for connections, and a spark to generate school spirit. Even with a different primary focus this year, those aspects remain the same. Director of Student Life Programs Amber Goupil had planned to reimagine
The final piece came together in Goupil’s mind after Perkiomen’s Day
Purple & Gold Games with the goal of being more inclusive and fostering
of Service had been rescheduled three times because of rain. That
more school spirit. “I wanted to explore more interests and accommodate
disruption ultimately ended in the school hosting a successful and fun
students’ different comfort levels,” says Ms. Goupil.
Four Diamonds For the Kids Thon, raising money for childhood cancer. “What I really liked was that the whole school participated in its creation
In past years, the student body was divided into groups based on
and execution,” says Goupil.
dormitories or dorm floors, which was a helpful way to build connections and include day students, who would be assigned to a dorm, into more
The new Purple & Gold Games were born.
of a boarding experience. However, it often caused an imbalance. “I remember watching a team that was primarily senior boys face off against
Goupil identified eight broad categories of service: Advocacy&Human Rights,
a team that had most of our middle school students, in game of tug-of-
FoodSecurity&Poverty,PromotingCommunityEngagement&Enhancement,
war,” says Goupil. “I’m sure you can imagine the scene and this led me
Intergenerational Service, Research & Support for Health & Medical Issues,
down the path of thinking that a new team system might be a way to
Sustainability & Climate Change, Safety, and Access to Education.
create community across disparate social groups.” Students and faculty were asked to rank their interest in these categories and With another goal of building lasting school spirit, Goupil was also looking
then were divided into teams based on their choices. Teams were given color
to keep students on the same team throughout their Perkiomen career,
names, and rather than purchase t-shirts, on competition days they simply
building history and traditions, even welcoming family members to the
wear their team’s color, allowing for additional expression and creativity.
same team. “That would mean that a project started this year could be
&
carried into subsequent years,” says Goupil, “and we also thought a bit
“Purple & Gold teams still compete in fun things like field games or UNO
about family – siblings, cousins, and maybe down the road – alumni
tournaments, points can be earned by participating in Spirit Week or
children - would all be on the same team, developing some legacy.”
attending a debate, and teams will do ice breakers and activities to bond.
Purple Gold Competitive field games at the start of the school year broke the ice and began a tradition for the new teams.
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P E R K I O M E N M AG A Z I N E
But then we also focus in on a service learning component, where each
One additional new and important component of the Purple & Gold
team will develop a project or projects that relate to their category.”
Teams is student leadership and mentorship. “Ideally projects are generated and developed by students with some faculty oversight, but
For example, the Orange Team has a focus on Safety and they planned
there is also opportunity within teams for students to take on leadership
to give a series of workshops on preparedness training for emergencies
roles,” says Goupil. “There are about 40 students on each team with a
and CPR certification. The Red Team, focusing on Research and Support
variety of roles to be filled. There will be more avenues for students to take
for Health and Medical Issues, in the winter spearheaded a campaign
ownership and hopefully to involve more or different students as leaders.
encouraging the Perkiomen community to shop with Amazon Smile to
My hope is that teams will also welcome new members to our community
direct donations toward organizations that fund research for medical issues.
and help orient them, becoming a structure that facilitates belonging and helps new students transition in.”
“With the Amazon Smile project, I was able to bring awareness to charities that relate to health issues within our community and help those
Regardless of whether Perkiomen School meets in-person or online, the
that need it,” says Olivia Diliberto ’24. “We chose three charities, the
connections built among the teams will further school spirit, belonging,
Chiari & Syringomyelia Foundation, the Pediatric Cancer Foundation of
and community. As we create a revised schedule for the fall, Purple &
the Lehigh Valley, and Morgan’s Magical Ears to highlight because each
Gold Team meeting times will be built into the system. “I believe larger
one was important to a member in my group. The Purple and Gold teams
school spirit is heightened and amplified by belonging to a smaller group
bring together groups of students who can bond over both similarities
and my hope is that Purple & Gold teams are groups that students and
and differences. I liked how the teams were created this year so we were
faculty feel a sense of belonging and pride in,” says Goupil. “I also really
involved with groups that dealt with projects we were interested in.”
hope for the organic development of some specific traditions for each team, which will take time, but can become very meaningful for students
The Green Team, with a focus on sustainability, was working on developing
down the road.”
composting on campus. “I liked the Green Team’s idea in particular,” says Goupil, “It was a project that we had attempted on campus previously but we were unsuccessful. If the team can think through the logistics and tackle some of the previously identified issues, the process will be really impactful as a lesson in persistence and problem solving.” By February, each team had submitted at least two project proposals for review, but as the in-person year was cut short, many service projects were imagined and organized, but could not come to fruition.
Games “On the one hand, it has been disappointing to not be able to see our teams carry through on those ideas in the spring,” says Goupil, “but on
The White Team collected and donated food and personal items for The Open Link.
The Orange Team turned their focus on Safety into a group Halloween costume, winning Purple & Gold points for their team.
the other hand, my long-term goal for Purple & Gold Teams is that once a project is started it is not dropped after a single year but that they continue to build on them year after year. We have really great proposals that I am expecting our students in the fall will pick up again. Our Food Security and Poverty Team was working on food drives, and they will continue working on them now, as that is definitely a need, but they were also working with our Dining Hall to consider food waste, definitely a project that I’ll encourage them to pick up in the fall. The Red Team was working on resources for mental health, which is immensely important now, and I
The Red Team celebrates their victory during field games.
think that is something they will continue to work on as we move forward.”
S U M M E R 2020
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COACH BAKER INDUCTED INTO PA SPORTS HALL OF FAME In October 2019, Perkiomen School Athletic Director and Head Baseball Coach Kendall Baker was inducted into the Tri-County Area Chapter of the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame. Ken Baker has served as Director of Athletics at Perkiomen School since 1976 and has been coaching Perkiomen Baseball for the past 32 years; the last 30 years as head coach. Coach Baker has guided the Perkiomen Panthers to 25 consecutive league championships. Baker took over the baseball program in 1990 and has compiled a record of 499 wins. In 2003, he celebrated his 200th career win with a 23-0 undefeated season. In 2005, he celebrated 250 wins. Since the first league championship 25 years ago, the team has had a winning percentage of 80 percent. “Ken Baker has created a culture of winning, but more importantly, he instills in his players a deep understanding of doing things the right way,” says Head of School Mark A. Devey. “He develops individuals of high character and discipline. I am honored to partner with Ken to continue to pursue excellence at Perkiomen School, on and off the baseball field.” Baker did his undergraduate work at Springfield College and his graduate work at the University of Wyoming. Prior to Perkiomen, he coached Little League and American Junior Legion, where he made the state playoffs twice. He also coached the American Senior Legion team, which went to the district playoffs three times. Baker is a board member of the American Junior Legion. Baker has been sought out for his baseball expertise. He directed at The Freeport Anglican Baseball Camp in Freeport, Grand Bahama in 1995. He also coached the Roberto Clemente All-Star teams in Puerto Rico during the summers of 1996 and 1997. Coach Baker has run successful Roberto Clemente tryouts at Perkiomen and in Maryland. Coach Baker was inducted into Perkiomen School’s Hall of Athletic Honor in 2006. Former Headmaster George K. Allison named the baseball field “Baker Field” in honor of Coach Baker. For this coach, his commitment to athletics goes beyond the ball field. This year, Baker took on coaching volleyball – while coaching fall ball for the baseball team - and led the team to both league and season championships. “This is my 51st year of coaching,” said Baker. “Forty-four have been at Perkiomen School in six different sports, three of which I knew little about. I learned a little bit about what it takes to have success. You have to have motivated individuals who work hard and play with integrity. Athletes make all this possible.”
Several school records were broken during the Winter Track season.
Boys Soccer won the regular Tri-County League season with a record of 10-4-3.
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P E R K I O M E N M AG A Z I N E
Sabrina Huang – Girls 55 m dash & Girls long jump Mia Skuraton – Girls 400 m Brock Reber – Boys 400 m Rylee Walsh – Girls 800 m Graham Gross – Boys 800 m Tony Holden – Boys long jump
2019-2020
PANTHERS AT THE After the formation of the Keystone State Eight-Player Football League, Perkiomen brought home the first-ever KSFL championship trophy.
Girls basketball finished second in the TCL and sent five players to the league all-star game this year.
Girls Tennis won the TCL regular season and championship.
The Golf team won the Perkiomen Fall Invitational.
Manny Ariza, Baseball – SUNY Old Westbury Janayshia Brown, Basketball – Xavier University Patrick Bayiha, Football – Widener University Sam Corrao, Basketball – Washington College William Johnston, Basketball – School Undecided Julia Kelly, Tennis – Marion Military Institute and United States Military Academy at West Point Jayden Kemp, Baseball - University of Waterloo Eli Meredith, Baseball – Hartford Community College Josh Odunowo, Basketball - Columbia University Gilbert Otoo, Basketball – Trinity College Edrick Padilla, Baseball – Ohio Wesleyan University Andrew Patnode, Basketball – Boston University Stephen Payne, Basketball – East Stroudsburg University Bryce Porter, Baseball – Siena College
Special congratulations to our Senior Athletes of the Year Abbey Glavin and Edrick Padilla!
Bryce Porter’s family celebrates his commitment to Siena College. Girls Cross Country was undefeated and cinched the TCL championship. In the championship meet for Boys Cross Country, every competitor ran his personal best.
Girls Soccer won the regular TCL season and championship as well as the Penn-Jersey League season and championship.
NEXT LEVEL
Several seniors have made commitments to play collegiate sports, even while facing the challenge of a halted spring season. Congratulations to our Class of 2020 student-athletes!
Boys basketball had a successful 22-9 season, advancing to the state semi-finals. They broke into the national rankings for the first time in school history peaking at number 15 in the country in January.
With strong senior leadership, the Swim team performed well. At the Easterns Interscholastic Swimming Championship, most students swam their personal bests and the girls’ relay teams scored points in multiple events.
Volleyball won the TCL regular season and championship.
20 Sports Recap S U M M E R 2020
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2020 Comm Perkiomen School’s Class of 2020 may have had the most unique graduation in the school’s history. Rather than gathering “on the campus sward” as our Alma Mater states, the 76 graduates joined in the celebration from their homes in 12 different countries, four states, and Puerto Rico. “Perkiomen School cherishes and celebrate the differences of each member of our community, intentionally honoring what makes each of us unique,” says Head of School Mark A. Devey. “Therefore our Commencement shift made sense, not only because we could not physically gather as a community, but also because this is a year when awarding a few prizes and diplomas seemed to be insufficient. Our ceremony celebrated every member of the Class of 2020.” Remaining a safe distance apart and in different locations on campus, administrators pre-recorded portions of the ceremony. The clips were professionally edited and combined with well-wishes of faculty members from their homes, as well as recorded sentiments and speeches by the graduates themselves. Rebecca Derham, of Coopersburg, Pa., was named Valedictorian. Rebecca is a multi-talented student who graduated Cum Laude. She earned a 4.56 weighted grade point average and is an accomplished
q The Senior Art Installation and Class Flag were displayed outside of Kriebel Hall.
musician in both piano and French horn, receiving honors at state and national level competitions. Rebecca also was captain of the swim team. She will be attending Carnegie Mellon University. “Rebecca imparted her valedictorian message in a different manner, fitting also for this year where nothing is quite the same,” says Devey. Rather than a prepared speech, her valedictorian presentation was a performance of Liebestraum No. 3 in Ab Major by Franz Liszt.
CLASS OF 2020 FLAG The tradition of the Perkiomen Class Flag began some time at the turn of the century. Flags typically displayed the graduation year and class colors. Perkiomen has always been the Purple and Gold, but some classes had their own colors, as well as their own chants and cheers. As time progressed, the flags began to represent the distinctive personality of each class, with themes, mottos, and statements. Following Commencement Weekend, class flags are displayed in the Hollenbach Athletic Center. The flag of the Class of 2020 was designed by Polina Tolmachenko.
q Head of School Mark A. Devey congratulates graduates from the steps of Kriebel Hall. qRebecca Derham, class of 2020 Valedictorian
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P E R K I O M E N M AG A Z I N E
pMolly Hughes, class of 2020 Saluatorian
mmencement Molly Hughes, of Sumneytown, Pa., was named Salutatorian. Molly graduated Cum Laude with Medical and Entrepreneurial Distinction. She has been a campus leader and was involved in Student Senate, Peer Tutoring, as a STEM Fellow, and contributed 334 hours of community service. As an athlete, Molly competed on the softball field and as captain of the swim team. Molly will attend Davidson College. Her Salutatorian address recalled the time when she took a risk and tried something new – bringing beekeeping to campus – however, she lost the entire hive. “Mr. Yorgey’s response to that failure gave me the courage to continue to try new things,” shared Molly. “I knew that I would celebrated for my efforts and that the only failure would be if I didn’t learn from the mistakes that I was bound to make.” Also embracing Perkiomen’s motto of risk becoming your best, 12 students graduated with Entrepreneurial Distinction, 11 with Medical Distinction, and four with Artificial Intelligence Distinction. This honor represents a commitment to participation in Perkiomen School’s Institutes, resulting in a rigorous application of their liberal arts education. To earn distinction in the Institutes, students must complete a capstone or research project combined with external experiences and specified coursework. Perkiomen School’s Class of 2020 takes their next steps having been accepted to 205 different colleges in five countries, 35 states and the District of Columbia. They will enroll in 52 unique institutes of higher education. “This Class of 2020 gives me hope,” says Devey. “They are a vibrant group who accepted the unprecedented challenge of this time and rose up to be stronger than ever. I know I’ll continue to be impressed as I see the impact they make on the world.”
t Faculty members delivered lawn signs to our local seniors to celebrate their graduation. Boarding students received their signs when they picked up items from campus or received an electronic version.
SENIOR ART INSTALLATION This year’s art installation was imagined by Polly Tolmachenko and Selena Lei, with physical installment by Director of Student Life Programming Amber Goupil. “No matter how far we go, we will always find our way home,” says Polly. “The idea of this installation, is that we all will fly away, finding new places, meeting new people, but we can come back to the place where we all started.” The art was inspired by the song, “The Winged Swing” from the 1979 Russian television movie, “The Adventures of the Elektronic,” translated to English below. The beginning of the April Snow in park begins to thaw, And the jolly winged swing Is beginning to get go. Everything has been forgotten, Frozen heart inside the chest, Just the sky, wind and the gladness Will be waiting us ahead! Just the sky, wind and the gladness Will be waiting us ahead! Rising up above the fir-trees, Not facing any bar, The winged swing is flying, It’s flying far and far! The winged swing is flying, It’s flying far and far! Childhood won’t last forever, It will be over in the end, Kids will turn into the grown men, Each will go on its own way. But so far we are still children, We have time for growing yet, Just the sky, wind and the gladness Will be waiting us ahead! Just the sky, wind and the gladness Will be waiting us ahead! Whole globe is whirling faster Just because of that spring mess, Birds are piping right above us, And we’re singing with the birds. Everything has been forgotten, Frozen heart inside the chest, Just the sky, wind and the gladness Will be waiting us ahead! Just the sky, wind and the gladness Will be waiting us ahead! Rising up above the fir-trees, Not facing any bar, The winged swing is flying, It’s flying far and far! The winged swing is flying, It’s flying far and far! S U M M E R 2020
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Perkiomen
OUR PLAN FOR THE 2020-2021
The measure of the strength of a community is how we rise and take on the moments that challenge us. Each time we think we have reached our capacity, we remember who we are. We are Perkiomen. We lead. We work hard. We solve through living. And then we ask what’s next.
• Families make their choice for their situation. • Options for students to begin the year at home, and return to
Our approach to the 2020-2021 academic year will be no different.
campus when they are able. • An increased number of terms in one academic year creates
We are proud to announce our flexible plan for a return to instruction: Perkiomen Resolved, a solution for meeting each student’s goals, built for each student’s situation.
built-in pivot points, if a transition is needed. • If necessary, students can remain on campus during scheduled school breaks to reduce travel.
We will continue to deliver the high-quality, personalized Perkiomen education we all value, while prioritizing the health and safety of our students and employees. We recognize that there are many forces outside of our control, however we are committed to taking steps forward with confidence in our resilience and leadership.
• Perkiomen’s health and safety plan has been developed, reviewed, and approved by the Infection Control Specialist at
Our four-point plan for returning to campus demonstrates our strong
St. Luke’s Quakertown | Upper Bucks campus.
commitment to our students and their families.
• Decisions are made with guidance from the Centers for Disease
1 2 3 4
• A revised daily schedule slows the pace of the day to
Control (CDC) and the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
-
OPTIONS FLEXIBILITY SAFE T Y QUALIT Y
incorporate safety measures like proper hand washing, cleaning, sanitizing, and social distancing. • Breaks between classes provide safety in campus hallways and reduces computer/device fatigue for online learners.
• On Campus
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• Three classes per term delivers high-quality, focused
• Online transitioning to On Campus
education where students continue to take a deep dive into
• On Campus transitioning to Online
topics that interest them.
P E R K I O M E N M AG A Z I N E
Resolved: SCHOOL YEAR
VITAL CONVERSATIONS: RACE IN THE UNITED STATES These are challenging times for a nation that was founded on principles of equality and freedoms. What is clear is that the United States continues to fall short in providing safety and civil rights equally for everyone. Perkiomen School does not tolerate racism of any kind and stands firmly in support of our Black community members. Our community was distant from each other physically because of COVID-19, however it was imperative that we come back together to stand with our Black colleagues, students, alumni, and families. Led by our Diversity Collaborative and with our Head of School Mark A. Devey, this summer we gathered several times as a community via Zoom for honest dialogue, creating an open space for listening and sharing resources. “These were not easy conversations,” says Trevor Smith, Diversity Collaborative Coordinator, “but vital ones.”
• Class periods do not rotate during terms, providing continuity for online learners throughout each term. • Two conferencing periods per day encourage either one-onone faculty assistance or space for AP course review, Learning Center classes, institute work, or academic support. • Evening classes provide an additional flexible learning option. • Open air classrooms combined with technology access points will allow for campus events and classes to be live-streamed. • The hallmarks of Perkiomen student life – advisory, leadership clubs and activities, Purple & Gold Games, and after school arts and athletics will be accessible for both on campus and online learners. “Perkiomen has always celebrated the differences within our community,” says Head of School Mark A. Devey. “What makes
Current and new students, parents and children, couples, longtime faculty members, and entire families gathered together on their couches or at their dining room tables to ask, listen, and learn from one another. Stories were told and through different voices we heard how through each individual action we can contribute to change. Diversity Collaborative Coordinator Jessica Walton shared that, “even just one conversation is a step in the right direction.” Our first meeting concluded with a powerful quote shared by Honor Huff ’21: “Community serves to amplify our voice and our ability to effect and influence change.” – Abid Hussain, Director, Diversity Arts Council, England. As we hear others’ perspectives and examine how we lead, teach, and treat one another, the conversation will continue throughout the summer and into the school year. Perkiomen School stands firmly in the fight against systemic racism. “This is a group who listens, who cares deeply for one another,” says Devey. “This is not a moment for us but a movement and an ongoing commitment.” “This movement for racial equity has been alive and well since the 60s,” says Walton. “However, this is a new wave with new energy. It’s been revitalized, and at the center of it is a new generation of young people. It’s a privilege to learn with our community and guide our Perkiomen students as they push for positive change and equity.” Resources are available at www.perkiomen.org/global-community and @perkiomendiversity on Instagram.
us special is the ways our individual experiences and perspectives come together. We understand each student may be facing a unique situation. We are prepared to be flexible and eager to work with families to create a smooth transition this fall. Know that Perkiomen is resilient and we are ready.” Please visit our website www.perkiomen.org/resolved for the most updated information about our fall opening.
above, left to right: Diversity Collaborative Coordinator Jessica Walton, Diversity Collaborative Coordinator Trevor Smith and Honor Huff ‘21 S U M M E R 2020
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P E R K I O M E N M AG A Z I N E
Who would have guessed how timely the songs in our Winter Musical would be? Our production of High School Musical had us singing “We’re All in this Together” from February straight through until the summer!
S U M M E R 2020
17
For the past year, a loyal, tried, and true group of faculty,
Austintown, Ohio had to offer. Following an intensive summer
parents, alumni, and trustees has met once a month,
academic program at Mercersburg Academy between his
mapping out Perkiomen’s most ambitious campaign,
freshman and sophomore years, he was catapulted into a new
Our Moment to Lead. At the forefront of this $30 Million
culture at Perkiomen, one that didn’t exist where he grew up, filled
comprehensive campaign and leading the operations of
with mandatory extracurriculars, nightly study halls, and elevated
the Campaign Committee are Trustee and former Board
academic rigor. While this transition was difficult at times, Lloyd
Chair Phil Lloyd ’65 and Trustee Karlee Fain ’00.
is grateful for his classmates with whom he remains in contact to this day as well as teachers who did their very best to transform
Wanting Something More
him from “not a great student to a better student.” Perkiomen gave him a foundation of study habits which carried him through
“During our lifetime, there will be doors that appear and you must have the courage to walk through them. If you don’t you’ll never expand your horizons and you will always stay where you are. Open that door, walk through that door, and experience what’s on the other side of that door. Yes, it’s frightening. Yes, it’s new. But guess what? You might just find something that’s really important to you.” ~ Phil Lloyd ’65
Ohio Wesleyan University and The University of Akron School of
Throughout his lifetime, Phil Lloyd has welcomed challenge.
wanted to learn in more depth and be more challenged.” As
Raised fully immersed in his family’s agricultural business, his grandfather charged him with raising and selling his very own cattle. Lloyd feels fortunate to have learned about hard, honest work while working on the family farm, but his mother wanted more for his life path than what his small hometown of
Law and then to an immensely successful career in finance law.
In the fall of 1993, just about 30 years after Lloyd found himself transplanted to Pennsburg for his sophomore year, Karlee Fain began her Perkiomen journey as a seventh grader. She, too, craved an educational experience greater than what was possible at her school district’s middle school, expressing, “I a day student, she spent her weekdays on campus and then returned home to a yoga ashram in Sumneytown, Pa. With Perkiomen’s cultural differences and academic rigor, she found the school’s structure of the mid to late 90s a stark contrast from everything she had previously known, feeling
Our Moment to Lead, Together 18
P E R K I O M E N M AG A Z I N E
greatly drawn to it and also pulled from her comfort zone as
second year, Head of School Mark A. Devey knew that he
she made this leap of faith. Fain appreciates the and – the
wanted her to co-chair the next campaign.
duality of her experience. Within that she learned how to find balance between structure and grit versus mindfulness
Fain’s passion for cultivating meaningful relationships
and wellness at a very young age.
and her experience in recognizing strengths and building connection is a great foundation for her leadership role on
Why They Serve
the Campaign Committee. She also holds a deep drive and commitment to the sustainability of the Campaign and the
“I walk away from campus after every Board meeting entirely invigorated and inspired by what’s happening, not just in the Board Room but also in the classrooms with the students and faculty. What excites me is the sense of community at Perkiomen, the way I see students engaging with each other through meaningful conversations and supporting one another to lean into the school’s values and risk becoming their best.” ~ Karlee Fain ’00
school itself. Beyond the aesthetics and functionality of the new student center, athletic fields, and entryway to the school, she asserts, “This campaign is a part of something bigger for Perkiomen; we will deeply connect with alumni and other friends of the school to continue relationships for the long term. The Campaign might be five or six years, but the foundation of this is to make the school an even more connected and unified institution in the world.”
Having attended Perkiomen from 1993 to 2000, the school at which Karlee Fain spent her adolescence was vastly different
His Perkiomen education, Lloyd states, is the foundation of
from the Perkiomen she returned to serve as a Board member.
everything that he has today. He gives back to his alma mater
When she agreed to join the Board in 2017, she was thrilled to
through his leadership, both financially and through his
see the ways in which Perkiomen evolved since graduation,
service on the Board of Trustees. Having recently reached
especially in regards to the Institutes as well as its health and
the end of his four-year term as Chair of the Board, he is
wellness initiatives. Impressed by Fain’s early involvement
continued next page
with the Board from her very first meeting, by the end of her
“We have practices that have been proven to work from more than a century of education at Perkiomen AND we have a unique ability to think about the future at the same time. The Institutes are providing an environment for creating solutions that are going to solve future problems that we don’t even know of yet, and that is downright extraordinary. Seeing the students coming out of Perkiomen, and the skill sets they develop here, renews my sense of optimism - being part of this campaign has been a gift.” ~ Karlee Fain ’00
“I’ve learned that I really like influencing, helping, and watching young people grow. Every time I go to Perkiomen, I have a reaffirmation of the quality of the young generation we have. You see young people who are extremely skilled, learning, and are going to be really good leaders in the future. I know there’s a future for our country from what I see.” ~ Phil Lloyd ’65
S U M M E R 2020
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Our Moment to Lead, Together continued from previous page
boost to close the first full year of the Campaign, especially in the midst of the economic ramifications of the COVID-19
immensely proud of where the school is today, however, he
pandemic. The cash component will immediately go towards
believes there is still a great need for a student center. This
constructing the new student center, the most crucial of the
presented the perfect opportunity for Head of School Mark
campaign priorities in Lloyd’s mind. As for his bequest, Lloyd
A. Devey to request Lloyd’s leadership once again, this time
is delighted to have included this for three reasons; first, this
as co-chair of the Our Moment to Lead Campaign.
allows him to give far beyond his lifetime capacity without affecting his current finances; second, he recognizes the
Capital campaigns are far from anything new for Phil Lloyd,
benefits of leaving his IRA to a 501(c)(3) organization versus
thanks to leadership experience in the roles of Chair or Co-
his surviving family facing the burdens of inheritance tax;
Chair at the Akron Art Museum, Mercersburg Academy, and
finally, and most importantly, these anticipated funds will
his alma mater the University of Akron - each time crushing
provide Perkiomen income in the future, sustaining his
the organizations’ fundraising goals by the millions. As a
legacy and the financial well-being of his alma mater long
seasoned attorney, he feels especially confident stepping
after he is gone.
into these roles, even in the most complex situations, where he has to listen, evaluate the importance of certain issues, and decide which ones will make a difference. Giving Back
“Do I owe Perkiomen a lot? Absolutely. I owe Perkiomen gratitude for what I obtained which allowed me to do what I did in my life.” ~ Phil Lloyd ’65
“When we give, it’s a win-win. If we believe in the importance of education and opportunities for students from all over the world, of all walks of life, then giving to the school is a great investment. I’ve made lasting and meaningful relationships that I would have never made otherwise. When we give, it’s in support of the school, but it also nourishes something within us.” ~ Karlee Fain ’00
Stressing the significance of the student center, the future literal heart of campus, he explains, “I am supporting a
Since spending a year ramping up excitement for Our
student center because it is a place where people will
Moment to Lead, Fain is preparing to make her campaign
gather and learn from each other in both culture and
pledge, researching the right balance between making
academics, and Perkiomen needs that.” Time and again,
an impact now and planning for the future. Her time as a
Lloyd has communicated his appreciation for Perkiomen’s
member of the Board and the Campaign Committee has
academics, but he had something else in mind when
taught her about the various means of philanthropic giving.
considering his campaign gift. When reflecting upon his
From these discoveries, like many younger donors, she has
Perkiomen experience, he looked back on the evenings
found possibilities in the creative ways one can commit to a
he spent in Robbie’s with his friends, socializing and
multi-year blended gift through tax credits, stocks, and life
making memories over cheeseburgers. Inspired by that
insurance, in addition to outright cash.
memory, he was determined to leave his legacy through the café which will be a key feature of the Student Center.
Fain intends on her contribution creating an impact on the
“Robbie’s was the gathering spot,” says Lloyd, “and I want
institute programs, specifically the Entrepreneur Institute.
this café in the Student Center to be the gathering spot
Having built a wellness coaching business from the ground
for generations to come.”
up, Fain is passionate about empowering young female entrepreneurs, like herself, to boldly follow their pursuits.
20
During the April meeting, Fain buoyed the Campaign
Noting the abundant experiential learning opportunities
Committee’s spirits by announcing Lloyd’s pledge to Our
which today’s Perkiomen students have, she believes that
Moment to Lead. This structured leadership gift, split
Perkiomen is an incredible place to get started. “I so wish
between cash, lifetime IRA distributions, a life insurance
the Entrepreneur Institute had been there when I was a
policy, and a bequest of his residual IRA, is a welcomed
student,” says Fain, “what I would have done with that.”
P E R K I O M E N M AG A Z I N E
STUDENT CENTER HIGHLIGHTS Café Teaching Kitchen School store College Counseling Suite Student Services Meditation Room Diversity Space and Breakout Rooms Home of the Entrepreneur, Medical, and AI Institutes Art Studio and Kiln Music practice rooms Outdoor Patio and Play Court TV Studio E Gaming
renderings: Flansburgh Architects
Phase I TOTAL INVESTMENT: $13 MILLION • Build a Student Center and complementary outdoor spaces • Establish a true campus center and create a new campus arrival • Enhance performance spaces in Kehs Hall “The student center is a central hub where students will seamlessly share their experiences and their cultures, drawing people in to experience moments that they might not have been exposed to. To grow and evolve with the school, the building is being strategically designed. While it has a great structure, rooms can be adapted and changed for the future. This type of thoughtful planning will allow this building to be the epicenter of the community for a long time.” Campaign Committee Co-Chair Karlee Fain ’00
Phase II TOTAL INVESTMENT: $12 MILLION • Construct an entry road from Schoolhouse Road to extend the eye-catching new campus arrival from Phase I • Build new athletic fields, including an all-weather track and turf field • Grow the Perkiomen Fund by an additional $1.5 million “Perkiomen School is an excellent educational institution. It has all the tools for student success: the experiential learning, the spirit of innovation, a diverse student body, and faculty who truly care about their students and are passionate about educating the next generation. But to continue, we need this student center in the heart of campus because the spaces within it will help to tie all these things together and build human relationships within the community.” Campaign Committee Co-Chair Phil Lloyd ’65
Phase III TOTAL INVESTMENT: $5 MILLION • Grow the Perkiomen Fund by an additional $1.5 million to cap a six-year, $4.5 million boost to the annual fund rendering: Flansburgh Architects
• Grow our endowment by $3.5 million
S U M M E R 2020
OU R M OM ENT TO LEA D: A TH R E E-PH AS E CAMPA I G N FO R PE R K IO ME N SC H O O L
rendering: Flansburgh Architects
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What are some of the Greatest Duos of all Time? Peanut Butter and Jelly, Batman and Robin, Lucy and Ethel, Han Solo and Chewbacca, Tina Fey and Amy Poehler… how about Alumni Weekend 2020 and 2021 – together?!! On June 11-13, 2021, join us for an extraordinary purple and gold event – with twice the fun - as we celebrate reunion classes ending in 0 and 5 AND 1 and 6! Yes, you read it right… two 50th Reunion Classes, two 25th Reunion Classes, two 10th Reunion Classes for one great weekend of camaraderie and festivities. It has never been done before, and you won’t want to miss it. Mark your calendars now! Interested in being part of your class’ plans for 2021? Please contact Alumni Director Diana Weir-Smith ’85, P ’19 at dweirsmith@perkiomen.org.
See you
Alumni Weekend
One Event, Doubl 22
P E R K I O M E N M AG A Z I N E
soon!
nd 2020/2021
le the Celebration S U M M E R 2020
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The Robert M. Schumo Academic Center was named in memory of the husband and son of Margaret Schumo P ’79, who were both Robert.
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In Memoriam P E R K I O M E N M AG A Z I N E
Margaret “Peg” Schumo P ’79 Peg Schumo was a passionate supporter of art, education, wellness, children, and animals. She left an imprint on the greater Reading/Wyomissing and Perkiomen communities by sharing her energy, voice and philanthropic heart. She spent a lifetime saying, “volunteerism is the price you pay for the space you take up on this planet.” During Peg’s life, she was a member of the Perkiomen School Board of Trustees, and held leadership positions for the Yocum Institute, Berks History Center, Reading Musical Foundation, Junior League of Reading, Women’s Committee of the RSO, First Presbyterian Church, Berks Art Alliance and Women’s Committee of the Reading Hospital. Even when not holding a major position, Peg was an active participant within many organizations. This will sound cliché but I greatly admired Peg Schumo. I told her on more than one occasion that I wanted to be her when I “grew up.” I enjoyed just sitting and chatting with her; Peg was a wonderful conversationalist. We would talk about golf, sunsets, pets and where to find the best bargains. We shared a love for the frozen yogurt in the Perkiomen Dining Hall when she would come for lunch. She also enjoyed Sunday Brunch and special events at Perkiomen. Peg was always the sparkle in the room and I will miss her spirit, her wit, and her laugh.
Jim Dickensheets ’37 Erwin D. Funk ’41 Raymond F. Davis ’46 John Michael ’48 Harry B. Archinal ’49 Herbert C. Deininger ’50 Charles W. Miller ’50 Roger F. Cocivera ’51 John J. Halloran ’51 Robert J. Fiore ’53 Thomas V. Falone, M.D., D.O. ’54
Richard Provost ’66 Richard Provost was more than a long-time class agent, I saw him as the epitome of our alma mater’s famous line – loyal, tried, and true. Former Headmaster George Allison, once called him Perkiomen’s “most dedicated son.” But in my house, he was referred to as “8 o’clock Richard.” Richard was part of a breed of class agents that thrived on class pride, he didn’t want to be outdone. Every year he called each of his classmates to ask them to make their gifts to the Perkiomen Fund so that together they could support the school and win the award for Most Participation in the competition among the classes. He would then call me without fail at 8 o’clock and update me on the status of gifts and pledges from the great class of 1966. Richard’s admiration for his class was strong and each year he organized legendary class dinners in New York City. I learned that when Richard was in his final days he requested to hear from his classmates that he loved so much. I am so glad they connected. There certainly will never be another guy like Richard. A musician, baseball player, golfer, recording artist and actor, he was spiritual and one-of-kind. I am glad to have called him my friend.
In Memoriam by Diana Weir-Smith ’85, P ’19
Paul A. Lundahl ’56 Karl F. Albert ’58 Larry A. Green ’60 Garnett B. French, Jr. ’60 Robert P. Klerx ’63 John H. Seidel ’63 Cappy Jack ’65 Kay E. Subhawong ’73 Patrick J. McClurkin ’85 Carlos M. Arboleda ’86 Scott Manz ’89
S U M M E R 2020
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Class Notes 50s
John “Sandy” Auld ’58 is happy to report that he is living his great years in south Florida. After more than 55 years, he still referees high school soccer and boys lacrosse. He says that it would be great to hear from classmates and alums. Ned Chatelain ’59 says, “I have been retired from my regular marketing position for many years, but for the past 13 years I have been raising money for children with special needs. The charity is The Russell Home for Atypical Children in Orlando, Florida. I also belong to one of the older clubs in the United States and you can find us at www.cfca.net.”
60s In February and March, Paul Lansberry ’64 enjoyed a few ball games with Alumni Director Diana Weir-Smith ’85, P ’19 while she was visiting South Carolina.
80s Rick Ridall ’84 presented his daughter Mikaela Ridall ’16 with her diploma from Temple University— surely not how the pair envisioned graduation this year! Mikaela graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in advertising with a focus in brand strategy and research. In addition, she received a certificate in event planning leadership. Rick is Associate Professor, Director of Industry Relations at Temple University.
Congratulations to Tracey Prince Martin ’85 who completed a double Master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling and strategic planning and innovation from Salve Regina University. Tracey was also the recipient of the 2020 Gary Smith Scholarship for Public Managers. The Gary Smith scholarship supports professionals working in state Intellectual/Developmental Disability agencies so they may participate in the University of Delaware National Leadership Consortium twice during each year.
This past winter, Trustee Pedro Miranda ’65 was listed as one of the 21 Best Immigration Attorneys in Miami. His firm, Garcia, Miranda, & Gonzalez-Rua, P.A. serves the Miami, Orlando and Hollywood metro areas in South Florida. Congratulations, Pedro! Doug Rea ’67 writes, “I had the great pleasure of meeting up with Julio Abislaiman ’67 in May 2019 while on a photo assignment San Juan, PR. Julio and I talked about fond memories of Perk, our 50th reunion in 2017, and friends of years back! Life is good!” This January, a postcard from Bill Senkel ’67 arrived in the mail at Perkiomen. He spent a few months vacationing in Ethiopia. Nate Leventhal ’69 and Don Frye ’69 got together in Maine, where Don lives, after reuniting at their 50th reunion.
70s Wilfred Cunningham ’71 moved to Florida to escape the cold Vermont winters. In spite of the greater distance, Wil looks forward to attending his 50th Reunion in 2021.
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P E R K I O M E N M AG A Z I N E
Jennifer ’86 and Andy Procak ’86 joined Mary GarrettGiovino ’86 and William Giovino in New York City for some holiday celebrating and friendship.
Jason Toll ’88 was recently appointed Senior Vice President of NAI Realvest, where he specializes in disposition of land for development. Tune into THE COMBINE podcast and hear Will Bryant ’89 and crew talk about football, basketball, baseball – high school, college and pros and all things NOLA. Visit them at talkdatnola.com to listen and learn more.
90s
10s Ieva Vozbutaite ’98 and Martynas Simanavicius ’16 met up in Lithuania in the summer of 2019.
Perkiomen’s Virtual Senior Awards Ceremony featured Olivier Joseph ’13 as its speaker. Olivier was introduced by his long-time Perkiomen friend, John Williams ’13, who returned to Perkiomen in March to work as an Associate Director of Admissions & Financial Aid. In December, Han Le ’14 released her first clothing collection in time for spring 2020. Based out of Hanoi, Vietnam, Hannie’s brand STUDIOHÂNLÊ encourages its wearers to “Exist Freely. Exist Loudly.” Follow STUDIOHÂNLÊ on Instagram @studio.hanle.
00s
In November, Shan Gao ’15 welcomed a baby girl, Ava. Jonathan Cianfrani ’00 won his second Emmy, a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Informational Series - Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown.
Carly Johnson ’15 is teaching English in South Korea and spent the year in Gumi. She recently relocated to Seoul. She’d love to connect with fellow Perkiomen alumni living in the area! Amy Li ’15 is pursuing her master’s degree in urban and regional planning at UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs.
In October, Trustee Karlee Fain ’00 launched her podcast Messy & Magnificent. Listen to it now on iTunes, Spotify, iHeartRadio, and Stitcher.
Cara Bumgardner Mathis ’05 stopped by campus and saw the Manferdinis in July 2019.
Melissa ’05 and Sam Weinstein welcomed baby Patrick Henry Weinstein, arriving on March 20, 2020. Zachary Ramos ’05 has been getting a lot of press lately. Zach was the lead guest on The Insiders to the Industry Podcast, Episode #07: Zachary Ramos – Art Department Coordinate and Set Decorator. On April 28, he was featured in Times Square Chronicles (t2online.com) where he shared life as a film industry professional in quarantine. Most recently, Zach was the art director of the Missy Elliott video, “Throw It Back.” In December, Dan Pittman ’08 was named on NEPA (Northeastern PA) Business Journal’s Top 20 Under 40. He is the owner and artistic director of Act Out Theatre Group LLC, an organization focusing on performance and education of the art of musical theatre. He also led the 2019 children and teen summer workshops at the Music Box Dinner Playhouse in Swoyersville. Miguel Yubero ’08 earned his international MBA from IE Business School in Madrid.
Angel Lopez ’15 and Levi Stoudt ’16 had a chance to catch up in Arizona this January. They are with the Cleveland Indians and the Seattle Mariners Organizations, respectively.
Embarking on an artistic project this spring was Sasha Vorlicky ’15, whose work is available at https://vorlicky.photography. Sasha’s artist’s statement reads, “Many visitors of New York have remarked that it is ‘the city that never sleeps.’ Yet during COVID-19, we’ve seen storefronts, theatres, and restaurants close for the first time in centuries. As a photographer, I feel the responsibility to document this extraordinary time. Weeks into the COVID crisis, I set out in the middle of the night to walk over 26 miles from Brooklyn to the top of Manhattan. Without stopping, my goal was to revisit as many familiar places as my feet could take me. The journey brought me to experience monuments and neighborhoods as if I had never seen them before. Sharing the expedition via Instagram Live, I had hundreds of people from across the globe join me to witness the quiet streets of New York like we have never seen them before. When you walk up the center of 5th Avenue and Broadway for 20 blocks straight with not one car or person in sight... only the quiet hum of the city’s bright lights still as luminous and ominous as ever... it is then when you realize that city is indeed asleep for the first time in living memory. And that... is a remarkable thing.” Shortly before this project, Sasha connected with the Perkiomen community as a virtual presenter during Social Justice Week.
S U M M E R 2020
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Class Notes
continued
After graduating from Martin J. Whitman School of Management at Syracuse University, Yonglin (Winnie) Wang ’15 took on a position as a tax consultant at Deloitte in New York City. Jordan Barth ’16 graduated from Misericordia University. As a Misericordia University basketball standout, Jordan was named to the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association All-America team. A senior forward, Jordan earned honorable mention All-America status. She finished fourth in the MAC Freedom with 8.8 rebounds per game and was 14th in scoring with 11.8 points per game. She was second in the league in free throw percentage (80.5) and fifth in field goal percentage (43.8). She finished 12th in the league with 2.4 assists per game and was seventh with one block per game. Jordan scored a season-high 27 points in a win at Keystone and grabbed a season-best 15 rebounds in a win over Wilkes. She had 10 doubledoubles while leading the Cougars to a 20-7 record and a second place finish in the MAC Freedom during the regular season. Kristen Burdo ’16 graduated from Penn State Berks majoring in business with a focus in accounting. She landed a full-time position at State Farm where she interned this spring. Amelia Dormer ’16 graduated cum laude from Loyola University Maryland with a degree in English with minors in history and philosophy. She received honors after completing a senior English thesis and is a member of the Sigma Tau Delta English honor society, as well as the Phi Alpha Theta history honors society. She plans to enter law school in fall 2021 following a gap year to gain work experience in the field. Minuette Laessig ’16 graduated from Lehigh University with a degree in bioengineering and biochemistry. Min will be attending Temple St. Luke’s Bethlehem. A member of the women’s golf team, her season was cut short by the pandemic. Min had a great career at Lehigh including being named Lehigh women’s golf’s Outstanding Athlete, named to the Patriot League Academic Honor Roll with 4.0 spring semester GPA, and being named a GCA All-America Scholar. Lauren Mann ’16 graduated from Moravian College with a degree in public health. Gabrielle Molnar ’16 graduated cum laude from Drexel University with a Bachelor’s of Science in music industry with minors in business administration and marketing. While at Drexel, she interned at Headroom Studios as a sound engineer in addition to working at FringeArts as a marketing intern. This summer, she is continuing to work on her senior capstone project, a fully produced EP, with hopes of release in early fall. She plans to pursue a career in marketing. Avery Rose-Craver ’16 received her BA in studio art with concentrations in graphic design and photography along with a minor in marketing from Salve Regina University. She graduated summa cum laude and was also honored with the Senior Award from the Art and Art History Department. She is a member of the Delta Epsilon Sigma honor society, Alpha Mu Alpha national marketing honor society, and a Pell Honors Scholar.
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Rebecca Schubach ’16 graduated summa cum laude from Ursinus College with a degree in applied economics and a minor in mathematics. She received honors from the business and economics departments and is an Ursinus Finance Scholar, and the Rose Compton Prize award winner in Economics. Additionally, Rebecca is a member of Phi Beta Kappa, Pi Gamma Mu social science honor society, Omicron Delta Epsilon economics honor society, and the Whitians female honor society. This summer, she is beginning full-time employment at Vanguard as a member of their Emerging Leader Development Program. Kent Shi ’16 graduated from Trinity University with a double Bachelor of Arts degree in Hispanic studies and public policy & law. Carri Yeager ’16 graduated from Arcadia University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in theater arts. Best friends Lauren Cola ’16 and Isabel Barone ’17 started their own podcast called How Have We Never Seen This Before? Isabel posted that they “watch classic movies that we’ve, clearly, never seen before but probably should have!” You can listen on Spotify find them on Facebook and Instagram @howhaveweneverpodcast. Lauren and Isabel would love for you to listen, follow, and make movie suggestions.
EVENTS AND GATHERINGS What a fantastic year of alumni events! We reconnected and enjoyed the company of other alumni near and far.
Halle Brown ’17 spent the beginning of her spring semester studying abroad at Queen Mary University of London to take specialized aerospace engineering courses. This summer, she’s working with 3D model radar systems at Raytheon Technologies in Dallas, Texas as a CAD (computer-aided drafting) mechanical engineer intern. Congratulations to Nick Guadarrama ’17, who was voted American East Conference Fan’s Choice for Player of the Year! Nick, a sophomore basketball standout, plays for the University of New Hampshire. At the time he received his award his per game stats were 13.1 points, 7.2 rebounds – his FG% was .484 and he had 40 3-Pointers. Miles Longstreth ’17 started selling shoes online during his time in Pennsburg, but it was out of his dorm room at Dickinson College where he expanded his enterprise and now runs several online ventures, documents the process, and shares his insights on social media. Sam Glavin ’18 attends Dickinson College where he sings with The Octals, plays baseball, and is the co-host of The Wolves of Broad Street Podcast. The podcast focuses on all things Philadelphia professional sports teams. Check them out on Instagram @wolvesofbroadst or on Spotify.
David Smith ’19 received Player of the Week and Freshman of The Week honors from Philadelphia Baseball Review. At La Salle University, he leads the A-10 Conference in stolen bases and was ranked 15th nationally for Division I teams. Henielys Ramos ’19 and Bianca Diaz ’19, who attend Chestnut Hill Collage and are teammates on their volleyball team, were featured in the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference (CACC) “Courage through Adversity” Student-Athlete Feature Series. The series is a league-wide effort to highlight the many ways in which CACC student-athletes have overcome adversity to play the sport they love. As residents of Puerto Rico their stories focused on Hurricane Maria. Heni plays setter/right-side and received the Coaches Award this year! She led the team with 535 assists and was second on the team with 220 kills and a .230 hitting percentage. A threat both in the attack and on defense, she recorded seven triple-doubles on the year. Her efforts earned her two CACC Rookie of the Week honors (9/20 and 10/7) and CACC Player of the Week once (9/20). Bianca has a great year on defense with 174 digs including a game high 17 against Kutztown.
t Alumni Baseball
uAlumnae Women’s Soccer 10 Year Celebration
pJordan Barth ’16, Tyson Butcher ’17, Sadie Butcher ’18, Chandler Gavin ’18, Sydnee Reddy ’19, Kristine Rivera ’19 and David Smith ’19 came back to Perkiomen in January as part of our Young Alumni Panel! Thanks for sharing your experiences, wisdom, and descriptions of college life with us.
t Alumni Basketball
t Alumni Gatherings were held in Los Angeles, New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC.
S U M M E R 2020
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X
X
Marks Th
During a time when we were all craving human
connection,
our
Perkiomen
community took advantage of the opportunities Virtual Perkiomen offered
presenters. Thank you for giving back to Perkiomen! Jake Dougherty ’11 and John Williams ’13 - Digital Media Jake Dougherty and John Williams shared their knowledge of the world of digital media. Drawing on their professional experiences, including Williams’ work with the Philadelphia Eagles and Los
and introduced a weekly X-period
Angeles Chargers and Dougherty’s experience in corporate
class. These “classes” were a virtual
overall best practices, and how to maximize returns on investments
experience outside of the typical subject work, and were a preview of what our X-Day programming will reflect in our new daily schedule for 2020-2021. The community joined together under the
communications, the pair spoke to emerging social technologies, in the social media marketplace. Jennifer Eisenberger ’90 – Clinical Research With 20 years of experience in clinical research, Jenn Eisenberger’s presentation was extremely relevant to the COVID-19 pandemic. She explained how research takes place, the process of medical trials, and the current collaboration among researchers as they attempt to create a COVID-19 vaccine. Andrew Pedrick ’76 - Architecture
leadership of Associate Head of School
Drew Pedrick reminded us to “fear less” as he shared his knowledge
Carol Dougherty P ’11, ’13 and Director of
experience with international collaboration, and the ways in which
Strategic Innovation Shaun Yorgey ’97,
of design, his work with innovative and conscious architecture, his team has been working remotely for many years. Pedrick also spoke of his passion for cultivating a positive environmental impact
to bring together an array of speakers—
through his work.
some alumni and some community
Norman Lee ’83 - Steinway Pianist and Professor
friends—to virtually join us, share their
and master classes have taken him across Asia, Europe, and the
experiences, and provide interesting
to renovate his childhood home into a museum and performance
insights into their professional work.
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We were so delighted to welcome the following alumni as X-Day
P E R K I O M E N M AG A Z I N E
A renowned and talented pianist, Norman Lee’s performances United States. Lee shared how he stepped out of his comfort zone space, that he was able to share with Head of School Mark A. Devey and Director of Development Karl Welsh during their last
X
he Spot
Norman Lee ’83
Sasha Vorlicky ’15
trip to Asia. Lee shared insights into his creative process and the drive behind his success - persistence.
We also extend our gratitude to alumni who virtually addressed our community:
Jennifer Eisenberger ’90
Olivier Joseph ’13 – Senior Awards Speaker
As the guest speaker for our Senior Awards Program, Olivier Joseph addressed how truly listening can open a new set of ideas
and discovery. He shared a personal story from his experience
in the medical field, and how actively listening with the intention to serve others helps him make better decisions for his patients.
Andrew Pedrick ’76
Joseph is currently finishing his first year of medical school at The
University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine. There, he is involved in several leadership positions ranging from mentorship to organizing school-wide programming.
Sasha Vorlicky ’15 - Social Justice Week and National Day of Silence
Sasha Vorlicky shared his personal connections to the importance
of solidarity. While at Perkiomen, he was an SDLC (Student Diversity
Olivier Joseph ’13
Leadership Club) and MARD facilitator. In college, he served on both the SAGA (Sexuality and Gender Association) and BSU (Black Student Union) executive boards, graduating from Beloit College
in 2019 with a degree in International Relations and Peace and Conflict Studies. Vorlicky’s presentation emphasized compassion, empathy, and the value found in the richness of our communities.
Alumni collegiate and professional athletes from Perkiomen’s Class
Jake Dougherty ’11
of 2016 shared heartfelt messages of support with our current
student-athletes during the Spring Varsity Awards ceremony. Thank you to Jordan Barth ‘16, Christian DelToro ’16, Minuette
Laessig ’16, Martynas Simanavicius ’16, and Levi Stoudt ’16.
John Williams ’13
S U M M E R 2020
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Class of 2020 No matter where you are, THIS WILL ALWAYS BE YOUR HOME. Â Congratulations to our newest alumni. You are officially Panthers for life.
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P E R K I O M E N M AG A Z I N E
Two leagues. Two championships. Girls Soccer is now part of the Tri-County League and Penn-Jersey League earning the top spot for both.
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