on the cover: With 77 combined years on campus, Kevin H ’04 and Trish Manferdini P ’07, ’09,’11 have cared for students, faculty, and staff, embodying the Perkiomen spirit of staying loyal, tried, and true. As a team, they have decided that the 2021-2022 school year will be their final year of service at Perkiomen School. Read more on pages 14-15. this page: Oliver Moser ’27 and Garbo Li ’26 perform together at the Middle School Fine Arts Festival.
MAGAZINE Letter from Head of ScrubbedSchoolIn Pushing the Pedal to the Metal 365 Farming Design Institute Launches in Fall 2022 Alumni Spotlight: Ed Friedman ’61 Kevin and Trish Manferdini: 77 years of being Loyal, Tried, and True Perkiomen SeniorAthleticSportsPartnersRecapsHighlightsCommencementArtInstallation Our Moment to Lead PerkiomenCampaignFirst Donor Spotlight: Fred Ahlborn ’63 ReunionInClassWeekendNotesMemoriam 43383230282625242018161412108643 1SUMMER 2022 SUMMER 2022 Perkiomen Head of School Mark A. Devey P ’21, ’24 Editorial Staff Diana J. Gleeson P ’19, ’23 Bernadette Kovaleski P ’28 AnneJennaContributorsAntoniewiczBrassingtonP’19, ’22 Erin McGuire Abigail Rose-Craver ’14 Diana Weir-Smith ’85, P ’19 Photography Douglas Benedict, Academic Image Geanine Jamison Tim Miller Steve Pestrock Melissa Krycia, St. Luke’s University Health Network PERKIOMEN MAGAZINE
Believe. Head of School Mark A. Devey, Paws, and students show their Perk Pride at the Fall Pep Rally. 2 PERKIOMEN MAGAZINE
Parents and faculty connected to find ways to support our Ukrainian students – from cookie baskets to prom dresses. As a community, we rallied alongside our talented artists to host a silent auction to benefit a Ukrainian charity, knowing that as we come together, we find strength, healing, and purpose. We are making things greater than the sum of our parts. As our students become alumni, we are growing a network of people who believe. They believe in the good in our world. They believe in each other, and they believe in the power of not only a Perkiomen education, but the power of the Perkiomen community. As each year passes, I am even more grateful to be a part of it.
3SUMMER
MarkSincerely,A.Devey P ’21, ’24 Head of School 2022 Kevin Manferdini H ’04, P ’07, ’09, 11, Kathy Eck, Mark A. Devey P ’21, ’24, Trevor Smith, and Karl Welsh together after the 10-20-30 Chapel.
Dear Perkiomen Community, In May, I listened to an interview with Lin-Manuel Miranda, the creative mind behind In the Heights, Hamilton, and Encanto. Miranda was discussing his time as a student, and what it was like being involved in the arts in high school, particularly theater. He laughed about there being no pay and no way to fire your cast members.
Katie Hammond P ’27, Paige Longstreth P ’14, ’17, Xaivian Lee ’22, and Mark A. Devey P ’21, ’24 at the 2022 Cum Laude Induction Ceremony.
“After all, this is a school,” he said, but his next line really resonated with me. He said, “The only thing you have as a motivational tool is your belief in the thing itself and getting others to believe that we can make something greater than the sum of our parts.” I realized I had witnessed the power of this at Perkiomen. This year, in big and small moments, I have seen our community believe in our mission and believe in each other. I walked in on a small advisory discussion where students were encouraging each other to apply for leadership positions. I sat in the audience during the Fine Arts Fest and smiled as our middle school students hooted and hollered for each performer. I heard our students shouting in the bleachers of Hollenbach and watched them storm the court after a big volleyball win. I sat on stage next to Cum Laude speaker Paige Longstreth P ’14, ’17 as she reminded our inductees of how she has witnessed them live the society’s motto of Excellence, Justice, and Honor. This feeling carries throughout campus. Our Institutes are growing (literally!) and our directors inspire our students to believe in themselves, and to turn their questions and their ideas into something great. I invite you to read about these exciting endeavors, including the launch of our Design Institute, starting on page 10. Kevin and Trish Manferdini have fostered a powerful belief in Perkiomen and in thousands of boarding and day students over a combined 77 years on campus. They embody being loyal, tried, and true – but what is their secret to success? “I cracked his code,” said Hunter Eschallier ’22 during our 10-20-30 Chapel, where we honored Kevin for his 40 years of service, alongside Kathy Eck (20 years), Trevor Smith and Karl Welsh (10 years). Find out what it is on pages Beyond14-15.campus, 12 hours away in Shanghai, China, the belief in Perkiomen is widening. Our partnership with the Leighton School will allow even more students to experience a transformational and innovative Perkiomen education. Visit pages 16-17, to meet their Head of School Josh Holt and learn more about our partnership. This belief that we can make something even greater spills into the way we care for one another, even during the most challenging times. As we watch developments in Ukraine, we look beyond the headlines and see the people who are impacted. We asked, How are our families being affected? How can we help our students?
Believe.
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Dr. Doron Rabin leads students through the dissection process.
Scrubbed In
In January, 15 students from Perkiomen’s Medical Institute participated in a human torso cadaver workshop at the Venel Institute in Bethlehem, Pa. Led by St. Luke’s University Health Network (SLUHN) neurosurgeons, the students learned about the anatomy, physiology, injuries and diseases and treatment of the human spine.
“Scrubbed in at the table, being able to experience an analysis of what lies below our skin has been more insightful than any diagram or model could be,” says Brianna Jones ’23. “This experience revealed the harmony required for not only proper bodily function but also surgical procedures and everyday life.”
George Weiler ’22, a boarding student from Easton, Pa., is interested in a career in physical therapy. Post-operative physical therapy can improve pain and reduce surgical complications, accelerating the healing process. The lab helped him to see more clearly how the fields go hand-in-hand.
Dr. Jeffrey Rodgers, Director of the Medical Institute
The surgeons also discussed their lifestyles and what qualities are needed for success, imparting the advice that before you can choose a specialty, you need to know yourself.
The day-long, hands-on workshop featured SLUHN neurosurgical spine specialists Doron Rabin, MD, Chief of Neurosurgery Surgery, and Hugh Moulding, MD, Director of St. Luke’s Brain and Spine Tumor Center. Both surgeons donated their time and skills for the day. Assisting with the event was Matt Dilberto P ’21, ’24 of Medtronic, whose generous grant made the experience possible. Medtronic also supported a similar experience for students in 2019.
Prior to entering the lab, the doctors presented common injuries and diseases of the spine and explained a range of treatment options, including surgery.
Following the opening session, Rabin and Moulding dissected cadavers to reveal to students the muscles, bones, nerves, and spinal cord. Access to this type of unique hands-on experience is rare for a high school student. What is even more special is that they didn’t just watch the surgeons demonstrate dissection and procedures, with their expert guidance, the students were able to hold the instruments and perform the steps themselves.
“By explaining how we decide which treatment is appropriate, given symptoms and pathology of a condition, students can gain insight into our day-to-day activities as St. Luke’s neurosurgeons,” says Moulding. Students were free to ask questions about career paths, types of surgeries, post-op steps, and the use of artificial intelligence.
“I will be able to incorporate reflections on this experience into my Anatomy & Physiology and Foundations of Medical Field classes,” says Rodgers, “including the valuable first-hand perspectives of the neurosurgeons.”
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George Weiler ’22 (center) and classmates take a closer look at the sample presented by Dr. Hugh Moulding.
“The lab was useful because I had the chance to see how surgeries connect with physical therapy,” says Weiler. “It was a very enlightening experience. The lecture about different spinal conditions and the surgeries that can fix them was very interesting. Although, the highlight was when we got the chance to go into the cadaver lab and operate on real cadavers. Seeing the anatomy of the spinal cord in person and getting the chance to perform different spinal surgeries was vastly intriguing.”
The Medical Institute exposes students to a range of opportunities for exploring science, from conducting their own research to meeting and learning from professionals working in all aspects of the field. Workshops like the cadaver lab can spark or affirm students’ interest in pursuing a medical career after high school.
“The cadaver dissection lab was a unique opportunity for Perkiomen students which allowed them to explore interest in medicine in a hands-on and close-up manner,” says Rodgers. “I was impressed with all our students in terms of their thoughtful and insightful questions for the mentoring neurosurgeons both during the pre-lab lecture and the dissection itself. It made me incredibly happy to see the obvious eager engagement of the Thestudents.”impact of the experience will go beyond just the 15 students who participated in January.
Director of the Medical Institute Dr. Jeffrey Rodgers appreciates that students like Jones and Weiler recognize that participating in this type of transformative educational experience now, will undoubtedly set them up for success in the future.
“This was an exciting opportunity for us to teach in-depth knowledge about the spine to the next generation of healthcare professionals who may be taking care of us in the future,” says Rabin. “We were honored to interact with these inspired teens from the school’s Medical Institute.”
Director of the Artificial Intelligence Institute Allison Rodgers and Tommy Saeger ’24 with the electrifiedprototype.railbike
Although railbikes have been used by work crews on railroads since the turn of the century, using them as a form of recreational exploring has just become popular. Secret Valley Explorers’ (SVE) railbikes are the first in the Railbikesstate.are pedal-powered vehicles with four wheels, disc brakes, and pedals for each seat that rides on the railroad tracks. Reminiscent of a recumbent bike, they provide a comfortable way to pedal, and sightsee. The railbikes take advantage of the railroad line’s gentle grades providing a smooth and comfortable ride through a scenic area around Boyertown, Pennsylvania.
Shaun T. Yorgey ’97, P ’27, ’28, Director of Strategic Innovation, had learned that SVE was looking for a student to take on this project. He introduced the project to Robert (Tommy) Saeger, III ’24, a day student from Pennsburg, Pa., who had already proven himself as a problem solver within the Innovation Center. Saeger did some research on the organization and then agreed to take on the challenge.
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The four-mile excursion through the Secret Valley can take from 45 minutes to one hour. Riders head into tall forests, cross bridges, and follow creeks. They may encounter bald eagles, foxes, deer, and heron. Typically, the ride takes consistent pedaling by all four members on the railbike.
Metal
SVE wanted to make biking accessible to everyone through the development of a second generation of railbikes – the first and only in the world – that are ADA accessible. The first significant change includes equipping the railbikes with electric motors to assist those who need additional pedaling support. The new bikes will accommodate those with visual, physical, and intellectual disabilities. For many, this may be the first time they have pedaled a bike.
PedalPushingthe to the
“It immediately sparked my interest,” says Saeger. “After talking about it, we went to the railroad and there were elderly people there who were struggling on the railbikes. Seeing them firsthand gave me motivation. It got to the ‘why’ of what I’d be doing. I want to be an electrical engineer, and I thought I may not have an opportunity like this again, so I should take it.”
The Secret Valley Explorers – Railbikes of the Colebrookdale Railroad are bringing a new type of recreational adventure to Pennsylvanians.
Without the ability to cut metal on campus, Saeger has turned to machine shops, hoping to find a local business to cut a two-inch gear. Unfortunately, the wait time is 12-16 weeks before anyone can get to it. Learning that Northampton Community College has a water jet on campus, has given hope to Saeger. He will be asking if they will collaborate with him to cut the gear. But, until the gear is cut, the project is stalled.
Mark A. Devey, Head of School, connected Saeger to Dan Breidegam ’71, Chairman of East Penn Manufacturing Co, Inc, the world’s largest single-site lead battery manufacturing facility and winner of hundreds of awards for industry excellence.
“Tommy has had the chance to follow his intuition, iterate, and learn far more about engineering than he would be able to do in a classroom setting,” says Allison Rodgers, Director of the Artificial Intelligence Institute.
Breidegam offered Saeger an opportunity to visit the plant to learn more about how East Penn’s batteries may help progress the “Thisproject.isanother example of the importance of the partnerships we develop,” says Mark A. Devey, Head of School. “Connections among different industries create a pathway to success for students participating in the Institutes. What’s even more meaningful is that this connection is through a valued alumnus.”
Real-life scenarios, from learning how to make personal connections to facing project or manufacturing delays, are worthwhile experiences for students.
“That first prototype proved to be ineffective,” says Saeger, “but it was a great stepping stone for me to determine what my next steps would be.”
With Rodgers as a mentor through this project, Saegar is supported, yet free to try, adjust, and try again, while learning through the process.
Saeger is not only leading the physical work on transforming the railbikes, but he has also lent his support to Colebrookdale Railroad to secure grant funding for the project. The work is funded in part through the Community Conservation Partnerships Program, under the administration of the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of Recreation in support of the Schuylkill Highlands Mini-Grant Program administered by Natural Lands Trust. This will allow the Secret Valley Explorers to ultimately install electric pedal-assist motors on every bike. The group has secured $1,500 per bike for electrification, a number that Saeger must keep in mind as he works through what materials are needed to achieve electrification.
“This project has great potential to spread beyond Perkiomen’s campus,” says Saegar. “I am looking for partnerships with local organizations to help me create the parts needed to successfully electrify the rail bike.”
“It is our hope that the success of this initiative will result in the replication of these bikes throughout the nation,” says Saeger.
“Mrs. Rodgers wants this to be my project,” says Saeger. “She gives me full support, help, and ideas, and advice on things I am looking over, but isn’t trying to do the project herself.”
Tommy Saeger ’24 is finding out.
“We were able to determine the gear size, size of the motor shaft, and the chains,” says Saeger. “And working through this step allowed us to make sure the parts would all fit as needed. But they need to be stronger.”
Michele D. Barrett, Director of Educational Programs at Colebrookdale Railroad is pleased with the work Saeger has completed thus far and excited for the future.
“There have been moments of struggle,” says Saeger. “The biggest things I have learned are ways to strengthen my communication skills, how to find partnerships, and carry that out successfully.”
“I am impressed and inspired by the creativity and ingenuity of the students at Perkiomen School,” says Barrett. “Tommy joined us for a railbike excursion during our first season in 2021. He was curious and eager to problem solve from the very first meeting. Over the course of the year that we have worked together, he has demonstrated not only that he’s inventive, he also asks intelligent and purposeful questions. I am now not only proud to have him contributing to helping us electrify our railbikes to enable more people the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of outdoor recreation in the Secret Valley – I am excited to watch where this young man goes in life. I expect he will do some great things.”
How are math, physics, and geographical topography the key to unlocking scenic trails throughout the country, for all residents? Through the iterative process,
Fueled by the confidence his teachers and the railroad staff have in him, and hopeful that he will find the right partner to move this project forward, Saeger believes he will have a deliverable electrified railbike by early next fall, with accelerated progress once he obtains the right metal gear.
During the first week of school, in fall 2021, a railbike was brought to campus to introduce the project to the community and allow Saeger to get started. He began by taking measurements and doing calculations to determine the details. He called upon his skills in mathematics and physics and taught himself about geographical topography. After the winter break, he purchased the first motor and gear box and created a prototype.
7SUMMER 2022
Saeger deduced he needed a larger, prefabricated motor, with higher speed and more capability, which would mean he would need a larger battery bank. Next, he needed to figure out how to integrate the motor into the bike and attempted to create the gears himself, using the resources of the Innovation Center. He tried acrylic laser cut gears, plastic laser cut gears, and 3D printed gears. All were too weak to support the load of the railbike, let alone the weight of the bike with passengers.
As a junior in the Entrepreneur Institute, Garcia joined the endeavor initially as a club, but as he became more involved, he realized it would be an excellent capstone project. The goal for those involved is to learn all they can this year, find customers over the summer, and then successfully grow vegetables for customers throughout the 2022-23 school year. When not working on the finances, Garcia also helps balance the towers’ pH levels and helps plant along with the other students.
This is an indoor aeroponic farm.
“I’ve become really passionate about it,” says Garcia. “It is an ecofriendly and sustainable way to plant, with no pesticides, no insects, and not much user intervention; it is reducing our carbon footprint. Everything is natural. I taste a huge difference between these vegetables and the ones available at the store. It is a much more flavorful product.”
After almost a year of preparing the towers, learning about aeroponics, and eventually growing vegetables and herbs, the project goal has shifted. The students now hope to rent space on each tower to an individual or family who can choose what they would like planted - like a concierge growing service – or set up a tower in a local business who can use the plants in their restaurant or café, harvesting what they need throughout the year. This type of shift, learning by doing, is at the heart of the culture of the Institutes. Students are encouraged to pursue their ideas, iterate through the process, and then if a change is needed – make it. Experience truly is the best teacher.
Students can participate in the indoor farm project either during weekly club meetings, or as part of their Institute learning. Medical Institute students are working on nutrient analysis and health benefits of the plants grown. Entrepreneurship students are coordinating the branding, marketing, and financial components.
“This is so cool! What is this?”
Two students are walking through Hollenbach Middle School, surrounded by walls of lockers, and are suddenly drawn in by a pink light coming from a classroom.
Artificial Intelligence students are tackling the continual automation of the farm, including nutrient, pH, and water levels.
The indoor farm will be a legacy project, that can be passed on from class to class.
“This is definitely something I want to see go on for years to come,” says Frey. “With students being involved so heavily, an underclass student can assume a role when someone graduates. The next wave of students can carry it on. It’s an infinite project.”
Manuel Garcia ’23 adds nutrients and minerals to each tower’s water reserve.
The original goal of the project was to start a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) garden. A CSA is a community of individuals who pledge support to a farm operation where the growers and consumers provide mutual support and share the risks and benefits of food production. Typically, CSA customers pay in advance and then receive a share of the harvest each week.
Eric Frey, Interim Director of the Entrepreneur Institute, leads this endeavor.
Manuel Garcia ’23, a boarding student from Elche, Spain, has taken on the role of Chief Financial Officer for the Indoor Farm project.
365Farming 8 PERKIOMEN MAGAZINE
The indoor farm has 13 growing units from Tower Garden. Using aeroponics, Tower Gardens grow plants with only water and nutrients. Instead of soil, plants grow in a medium called rockwool, which provides plant roots with oxygen and consistent moisture, encouraging rapid, healthy growth. A reservoir holds the nutrients solution and a low-wattage, submersible pump in the reservoir pushes the nutrient solution to the top of the garden through a small central pipe. The nutrient solution then drips down the inside of the garden, evenly cascading over the exposed plant roots. A timer ensures that this process repeats continuously—usually in 15-minute increments— to deliver the ideal amount of oxygen, water, and nutrients to plants.
“The Institutes go about things differently here,” says Frey. “It is an awesome and unique experience that our students have. Letting them pave their own path is priceless.”
Garcia manages the project’s expenses and hopefully one day soon, its revenue. He tracks and calculates the amount spent on water and electricity, and on marketing the project.
“I have always been interested in business and knowing how each expense adds up to affect the revenue,” says Garcia. “Now I understand much more about why companies make the choices they do. This is very hands-on. It’s a great opportunity. There was nothing student-run like this at my last school. We are supported but in control. Mr. Frey and the faculty have trust and confidence in our work.”
“What is this?” they say hesitantly, but they come further into the “Canroom.wetry this?” and help themselves to bibb lettuce and a sprig of mint.
New on campus this year is an indoor farming project supported by students from all three institutes – the first ever project that features collaboration among more than two institutes.
“When students get into this room, they are really excited to be here. The ‘coolness’ factor of this project really sets it apart.”
“As the facilitator, I am supporting them in experimenting with growing - both food and a business - and learning what will work,” says Frey.
365Farming 9SUMMER 2022 Manuel Garcia ’23 and Interim Director of the Entrepreneur Institute Eric Frey with the first harvest of the year.
Perkiomen School’s newest Institute, focusing on art and design, offers an opportunity for students to expand and evolve their unique artistic vision. Through exploration of the design process and mastering the fundamental elements and principles of art, students will maximize their creative potential.
“Design is everywhere,” says Devey, “and we are witnessing how the field is being called upon to address complex issues in all areas of life. As the workplace evolves to rely on multidisciplinary strengths, we want to provide students with experiences now that will prepare them to shape the future.”
The culmination of the Design Institute path is graduating with Design Distinction, after successfully completing a capstone project for exhibition or presentation.
“The addition of this fourth institute will allow even more students to focus within an area that we value – arts and design,” says Mark A. Devey, Head of School. “It broadens the scope of our other Institutes and will provide an opportunity for those students to weave the arts into other disciplines.”
Design is a natural fit for Perkiomen School as its Institute Model of education is built on the iterative process and incorporates design thinking elements, which help students apply creativity to effectively solve real-world problems.
“We are excited about the opportunities this Institute will provide for Perkiomen to partner with others,” says Devey. “This region and Pennsylvania as a whole are hubs for exploring the fine arts, architecture, textile design, galleries, museums and more.
“As we prepare students for the new economy and an evolving society it is clear that fostering and enhancing creativity is ever more necessary for success,” says Shaun T. Yorgey ’97, P ’27, ’28, Director of Strategic Innovation. “A recent survey of CEOs revealed that creativity is the number one characteristic sought when hiring. It is with great enthusiasm that Perkiomen offers the Design Institute to our students to provide support and celebrate their
According to The National Art Education Association (NAEA), research on employment trends and anticipated new careers shows that visual arts education is essential to every learner’s educational foundation for future employment in an increasingly complex and interconnected world. It develops skills of deeper understanding and divergent thinking. It also plays a vital role in cultivating collaboration, communication, critical thinking, curiosity, innovation, and problem solving, which are key competencies desired by employers. Visual arts education also develops emotional intelligence, the capacity to be aware of, control, and express one’s emotions, and to handle interpersonal relationships judiciously and empathetically.
Making connections with artists, designers, and influencers, and experiencing their work firsthand, has great potential to be the inspiration behind our students’ creativity and vision.”
Design Institute Fall Launches2022 in
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Academic offerings include the Foundations of Design course as well as cross-listed courses like Graphic Design & Marketing, Industrial Design & Prototyping, Web Design, and Engineering. These courses allow for students to customize their path, while traditional liberal arts classes lay a foundation for learning, emphasizing critical thinking, context, and culture. Faculty will continue to promote active inquiry and problem-solving through a variety of classroom teaching styles and specialized experiences like master classes, visiting artists, and field trips.
– Drew Pedrick ’76, Founder, MCTIGUE Conscious Architecture Mariana Kushnir ’23 is building her portfolio of work while taking Advanced Placement 2D Art and Design. MaggieDesignDirectorHorvath,oftheInstituteIruneCampsSanchez’23worksonaprojectduringafter-schoolStudioArt.
Horvath’s personal artwork has been featured in national gallery exhibitions and tradeshows as well as regional and local craft shows and pop-up events. She has been awarded three summer research grants, including work with contemporary geometric beading, raku and pit firing ceramics, and researching low temperature atmospheric ceramic firing.
Maggie Horvath joins Perkiomen’s faculty in August 2022 as the new Director of the Design Institute. Horvath comes to Perkiomen from Campbell University in North Carolina, where she was the Coordinator of the Art Department and Assistant Professor of Fine Arts. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in crafts with a concentration in jewelry and a Bachelor of Science in art education with a concentration in ceramics from Kutztown University of Pennsylvania. Horvath also earned a Master of Fine Arts in jewelry at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). With experience in fine art mediums including painting, photography, printmaking, illustration, 2D and 3D design, Horvath is also well-versed in technological processes like 3D modeling, rendering, 3D printing, and laser cutting. She is a connector and facilitator with strong contacts in the art world, who will serve as a model to help Perkiomen’s students forge their own connections.
artistic endeavors. We provide opportunities for current and future students to explore their creativity and rigorously use humancentered design.”
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“As an educator, I value and enjoy working with students of diverse backgrounds and abilities,” says Horvath. “I have worked alongside students from a multitude of countries and regions within the United States and have worked with very talented students and students in their first art class. My teaching style is choice-based and often uses the idea of a flipped classroom to empower students to follow their own curiosity and give creative license to students. This allows the work to be as diverse as the students and helps each student individually connect and fully invest with what they are making.”
Institutein
This is fantastic - so great to see the positive direction the Arts are going in at Perk! We live in a world of interconnectedness and the arts need to play central roles in how we live on this planet. “STEAM” won’t have much power without “ART”!
“However,” he says, “the conversation kept on going. I finally decided to do it for myself because it would be an intriguing life experience, and as it turned out, it was exactly that.”
“I had never met college professors like that in my whole life,” Friedman recalls. “They’re so nurturing, knowledgeable, and invested in their jobs, all while being full-time studio professionals in their field. At MECA&D, they want to show you your strengths, build you up, and show you where you can grow artistically.”
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Since graduating with his BFA in sculpture in 2008 alongside his “nontrad” peers, Friedman has become a practicing sculptor and remains closely connected to MECA&D, supporting the school through his service on the Board of Trustees.
He confesses, “When I first began making formal art, there was an adjustment period as I came to understand thinking as a surgeon is not unlike thinking as an artist. The true scientific process is discovery of the unknown and working towards that discovery without bias. Art is just like that; regardless of your individual artistic process, you must surrender yourself to the process and connect the dots in order to discover the end results without preconception.”
Spotlight:
With nine years of post-secondary education and a full career behind him, Friedman never intended to earn another degree post-retirement until he found himself in the company of two other older, non-traditional students who discussed majoring.
The three of them spent several years debating if they should pursue a BFA. At one point, Friedman, not interested in committing to the rigor of a degree program, told the others that they should go ahead without him.
Ed Friedman ’61 art and design launches second career for retired vascular surgeon
Alumni
When Friedman retired in 1997, he knew that a long, successful retirement depended on a diversity of interests. For the next two years, while he experimented with numerous hobbies in the greater Portland community, his wife Carole encouraged him to take advantage of their proximity to MECA&D to take art classes within its continuing studies program. Immediately engaged and wanting more, he took several additional classes and a January Intensive course before formally matriculating, a requirement to take Bachelor of Fine Arts level courses.
Ed Friedman ’61 and his piece titled, “Nu,” Mandarin for “woman.” This holoform welded mild steel was inspired from his studies of Mandarin calligraphy and human figure.
Throughout his adult life, Dr. Edward Friedman ’61 has always worked with his hands. For more than 20 years he repaired aneurysms, reconstructed blood vessels, and treated blocked and damaged carotid arteries, as well as performed research on cutting-edge medical technologies and procedures. For the last 20-something years, he created sculptures and designed his own homes. Now, he is sharing his interests with the next generation at Perkiomen as he gifts two full residential scholarships to the Pre-College Program at Maine College of Art & Design (MECA&D) annually over the next five summers.
After graduating from Perkiomen, Friedman received a Bachelor of Arts from The Ohio State University and Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) from Kansas City University. In 1974, upon completing a vascular fellowship at Baylor College of Medicine under medical pioneer Michael DeBakey, a hospital in Portland, Maine recruited him as a vascular surgeon. From that point, he spent the duration of his career there as a practitioner, head of the surgery residency training program, and lecturer at the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine.
As someone who has made a successful career in medicine, what compelled Friedman to choose to invest and encourage art exploration for young learners at Perkiomen and MECA&D?
“I am impressed by MECA&D’s school facilities, faculty philosophy, and drive to launch budding artists into creative professions,” says Devey. “I am delighted that our students now have the opportunity to experience these programs in the summer in the heart of Portland.”
At this program, students get a true taste of life and education at a nationally recognized art school with classes taught by professors in the BFA program as they advance their skills, develop portfolios, and earn college Whencredit. students are taking a break from the rigorous program, they can experience Portland, a destination for art, nature, and culture seekers. When one thinks of art and design school locations, New York, Providence, Chicago, and Savannah come to mind, but Portland is its own cultural hub as it has held titles including Coolest Small City in America (GQ), #1 Most Livable City (Forbes Magazine), Hottest Cities for Entrepreneurs (Inc. Magazine), and Foodiest Small Town (Bon Appetit Magazine) to name a few.
FriedmanJ.Caroleand’08FriedmanM.EdwardDr.The Design&ArtofCollegeMaineatFundScholarshipSchoolPerkiomen
“The faculty at MECA&D are the heart of the school,” says Friedman.
In arranging this generous gift with Friedman, Head of School Mark A. Devey and Director of Development Karl A. Welsh visited MECA&D’s campus multiple times becoming more and more captivated with each visit.
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“The timing of this relationship as we launch the Design Institute couldn’t be any better,” says Mark A. Devey, Head of School. “We are so thrilled to grow and support the arts within our existing Institute curriculum and having artists like Ed and the MECA&D community supporting Perkiomen is a great foundation.”
Kelsey McMillin ’24 and Jordyn Schlank ’24 are the first recipients of the Dr. Edward M. Friedman ’08 and Carole J. Friedman Perkiomen School Scholarship at Maine College of Art & Design.
To introduce Perkiomen students to MECA&D and draw interest in the PreCollege Program, Professor Bennett Morris visited campus in April as a guest lecturer in the Design and Illustration class in addition to a Master Class for withartadvancedstudentsafocusonLandscapeandStorytelling.
These days, Friedman, alongside his wife of 50 years, Carole, and their rescue dog Daisy, continues to partake in retirement activities such as alpine skiing and snowshoeing in the winter and then fishing, hiking, camping, and gardening in the warmer months. But now with art and design in the mix, they are surrounded by “works of heart” including four homes they designed and have lived in, filled with sculptures made by his own hands. Indeed, it is his heart for two institutions that has inspired funding the Edward M. Friedman ’08 and Carole J. Friedman Perkiomen School Scholarship Fund at Maine College of Art and Design. This summer is the inaugural year for an exciting opportunity for art students at Perkiomen. Ed Friedman and his wife Carole established The Dr. Edward M. Friedman ’08 and Carole J. Friedman Perkiomen School Scholarship Fund at Maine College of Art & Design. This generous scholarship fund will annually provide two full residential scholarships that include tuition, room, and board for students of Perkiomen School to attend MECA&D’s Pre-College Program.
Looking back, Friedman’s time at Perkiomen was a strong part of his foundation, especially the relationships that were meaningful and influential, much like his art school experience where his professors’ care and guidance powerfully impacted him, too.
“When you’re in an art critique, and your belly is churning, and you feel like you’re going to throw up, and a peer puts their hand on your shoulder and your professor says the right thing to give supportive feedback on your work, that’s a really special moment and it’s what I love about MECA&D’s culture where everyone can grow and carry oneself with confidence. I want to share that with Perkiomen art Guidedstudents.”by this scholarship fund, Friedman eagerly anticipates that the two educational communities will build a bond, opening doors for both institutions— for Perkiomen and its students, the connection to a thriving art school once the Design Institute is launched, and for MECA&D, the talent, perspective, and work ethic that Perkiomen students will bring to its summer Pre-College Program.
When asked how the Design Institute will complement the three existing Institutes, Friedman responds, “The Design Institute will allow for balance between the various disciplines. Studying art stimulates one’s brain to look at the world in a different, broader way. When working to design, we are connecting the dots to solve problems. That is what we do as artists and designers every day. We connect the dots as a matter of process, problem solve, discover, and create. And this mind-set expands over to all disciplines.”
AssistantSeniorParent.Administrator.HeadofSchool.
Friend.Parent.Mentor.Collaborator.Cheerleader.ProblemDecisionCaretaker.SoundingConfidant.board.Maker.Solver.
With a combined 77 years on campus, the Manferdinis have played each one of these roles – and more - and with that have impacted thousands of lives, including faculty, staff, and most importantly, students.
AdministrativeCoach.Advisor.Teacher.
ManferdiniKevinCelebrating&TrishTRUE:ANDTRIEDLOYAL, 14 PERKIOMEN MAGAZINE
But how about the titles you won’t see on a resume?
Assistant. Development Assistant. DormDean.
After four decades at Perkiomen School, Kevin and Trish Manferdini’s resumes are filled with the titles you’d expect to have at a day and boarding school.
This year, Kevin Manferdini was formally honored for 40 years of service to Perkiomen, alongside colleagues celebrating 10 and 20 years of service. Student Body Vice President Hunter Eschallier ’22, who has been a student at Perkiomen since middle school, volunteered to speak in honor of Mr. Manferdini. Finally, as a senior, Eschallier fully understood Mr. Manferdini’s motivation and his method.
“’How? How does he do it?” asked Eschallier. “Why is everyone terrified to be called to his office? Why does everyone check twice to see if he’s anywhere near when they are doing something they know they shouldn’t? Then it hit me, after six years I cracked his code. He trusts every student’s integrity. By no means does he expect everyone to walk around with a halo over their head, but he does expect people to do the right thing when no one is looking. And as to the reason we are afraid to be called to his office, yes, we all are afraid of the possible consequences, but more importantly, we are afraid that we must admit that we broke the trust of a man who put his faith in us. This strategy, this tactic, is a lesson taught better than any consequence. This man has taught countless students, whether they realize it or not, how to be a better person.”
In a 2014 interview for the alumni magazine, Kevin shared that trust, integrity, and honesty are the most important qualities we can teach at Perkiomen.
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“Mr. Manferdini has helped students mend their broken hearts, protected them from harmful home situations, and steered many in the right direction with his sage advice,” says Diana Weir-Smith ’85, P ’19, who has been a both a student and a colleague of Kevin Manferdini. “I’ve often compared him to Glinda, The Good Witch of the North, from the Wizard of Oz showing up when you least expect him, but when you need him the most, and showing you that you had the power to do it yourself all along.”
“Living into our values means that we do more than profess our values, we practice them,” says research professor and author Brené Brown, Ph.D. “We walk our talk—we are clear about what we believe and hold important, and we take care that our intentions, words, thoughts, and behaviors align with those beliefs.”
“And there is no one else I would have wanted as my son’s advisor besides Trish Manferdini,” says Weir-Smith, whose son David graduated in 2019. “Trish is just like Kevin. She cares for all the students as if they were her own. She is warm and compassionate, firm, and fair. I think she is sometimes the forgotten person in this dynamic duo. She, too, is up at dawn to make sure students are ready for their transportation, takes calls late at night, and is the magic juggler of weekend trips to always make it work for students. Trish has had her fair share of soothing broken hearts, holding kids’ hands through the death of a family member, and even serving as a buffer before they entered the big man’s office. Many students have described her as their Perkiomen mom and will be forever grateful for her support and care.”
John, Kevin, Trish, Lindsey, and Taylor Manferdini at Reunion and Alumni Weekend 2022, where the Manferdinis were honored for their years of service to Perkiomen School.
Together and independently, Kevin and Trish walk the talk. They are clear and their words and actions align with their beliefs. They have been an example of the values they hold dear and have guided thousands of students to try something new, build trust, and live lives of integrity. With gratitude for their spirit, dedication, and presence, we thank you, Kevin and Trish, for your years of service to Perkiomen School.
If you’ve ever asked them why they do it – and especially if you’ve ever caught them at a stressful moment - they will tell you, they do it for the kids. While the circumstances may vary, when you look closely, at the heart of every interaction with the Manferdinis is their love for each student.
When recently asked the same question, Trish shared her hope that every student learn to take advantage of new opportunities, step out of their comfort zone, and trust the people at Perkiomen to help guide them.
fostering strong mental and physical health, and cultivating creative and artistic “Whenpursuits.wewere approached to guide the development of a new independent school in China, we found that our core philosophies were very similar,” says Devey. “What Perkiomen values as community aligns beautifully with the values of Leighton School. We feel a common bond. An opportunity like this, to expand possibilities for our students – in both the US and China – speaks to the type of education we are providing. A Perkiomen education is transformational, innovative, global, and diverse, and will prepare our students for their future – a fulfilling life. Leighton is seeking a competitive, engaging academic environment that also greatly values athletics and the arts. Their emphasis on those two areas of school life will set them apart from many Chinese schools.”
Similar to the Artificial Intelligence, Entrepreneur, Design, and Medical Institutes at Perkiomen, Leighton School is developing partnerships with well-known companies and industry professionals to provide unique experiential learning experiences for their students. One such partnership is between Leighton and DeepBlue Technology, a fast-growing leader in artificial intelligence, to supply their AI Lab with hardware and software, develop curriculum guidance, and support experienced teachers. Leighton has also partnered with Intel AI for Youth, SLUSH Asia and local Fortune 500 companies for its
School will educate according to Perkiomen School standards, and over time the schools will collaborate on curriculum development, share professional resources, and have a common goal of providing balance in education – striving for academic rigor,
PERKIOMEN a shared vision connects schools 16 PERKIOMEN MAGAZINE
In March, Head of School Mark A. Devey announced a partnership between Perkiomen School, and Leighton School, Shanghai, China. Leighton School officially opens its doors to its first group of students in the fall of 2022, becoming the flagship campus of American high schools built by Ligao Education Group in Shanghai. Graduates of the Leighton School, serving students in grades 10-12, will receive a Perkiomen School diploma and will join a network of Perkiomen students and alumni from all over the Leightonworld.
As in the Perkiomen Institutes, where students have worked with St. Luke’s University Health Network, Merck, Medtronic, and Tower Garden, access to professionals and emerging technologies allows students to directly learn about the fields they are interested in, rather than just read about them in a textbook. This type of education supports students to apply what they are learning now and uncover more about themselves and their role in the world.
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Learn more about the partnership with Leighton School by visiting www.perkiomen.org/leighton.
“These shared visions of education make the partnership between Perkiomen School and Leighton School a natural fit for expanding top educational opportunities for students around the world,” says Holt. “Leighton School has been an opportunity for my partners and I to develop and open our dream school with innovative educational programs and competitive sports programs. This top college prep high school for young Chinese men and women, also teaches its students to value health and well-being by providing organic dining, mindfulness activities, sports and exercise, and a healthy balance between technology and life, which leads to lifelong health and happiness.”
Holt, originally from Texas, holds a bachelor’s degree in history from Hendrix College and graduated from Columbia University’s Teachers College with a Master of Arts in Teaching in 1998. He worked for 13 years as a social studies teacher in public schools in New York and New Orleans. In 2011, he moved into academic leadership in a New England boarding school, before accepting a position as Principal of an American high school in Shanghai in 2013. During his nine years in China, Holt has served as Head of School of three American high schools.
Josh Holt, Head of School for Leighton School, feels similarly about the fundamental connection between Perkiomen and Leighton.
PERKIOMEN PARTNERS schools from Pennsburg to Shanghai A science lab at SchoolLeighton Interior of a dormitory room at LeightonSchool
Business & Entrepreneurship Advanced Learning Lab. Leighton School also plans to develop a Biomedicine Advanced Learning Lab in 2023.
championshipsChampionshipVolleyballwontheLeaguedefeatingAcademyoftheNewChurch,3-2.TheteamwentontomakeittothesecondroundofthePAISAAforthefirsttimeinschoolhistory.
Girls home’22Danielagold’23EmmaSinghwithtournamentthesecondfinishedTennisinleagueSamaya’22andHoganwinningandPrietobringingsilver.
Girls Varsity Basketball won the MorrisvilleChampionshipPenn-JerseydefeatingHighSchoolinthefinal.
August Berndtsson ’22 set a record during the Fall Golf season for lowest scoring game as well as earning a spot on the First Team AllArea squad.
Varsity Boys Basketball had a great year overall with player growth throughout the season.
Girls Soccer placed second in the Championships.Penn-JerseyBoysSoccer won the PennJersey Championship defeating Cristo Ray, 3-2. Girls Cross Country claimed first place in the Penn-Jersey Championships and swept multiple meets.
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ESports participated in their inaugural season with four matches in the spring.
Football finished second in the Keystone State 8-man Football League.
Winter Track had a multipleathletesseasonsuccessfulwithbreakingrecords.
andChampionshipPenn-JerseyclaimedBaseballthemadearuninthePAISAAChampionship.
2021-2022 19SUMMER 2022
RecapsSports
Softball won their firstdefeatingChampionship,Penn-JerseyCristoRey11-1.
Girls Track claimed the Penn-Jersey Championship while the Boys team placed second. Both programs had multiple events qualify for the PAISAA Championship meet. Spring
bracketsBerndtssonChampionshipPenn-JerseysweptgolfthewithAugust’22claimingthegold.BoysTenniswonthePenn-JerseyChampionshipsweepinggoldinallatthetournament.
Girls cameLacrosseinsecond in the Tournament.ChampionshipAtlanticintoandprogramthescheduleplayedBoysTournament.ChampionshiptoandChampionshipsPenn-JerseymadeitthePAISAALacrosseanationalforfirsttimeinhistorymadeittheMid-Prep
Congratulations to Sam Pohlman ’22 (basketball, Wesleyan University), Ocean Mayer ’23 (track), Mia Skuraton ’22 (track, Pepperdine University), and Xaivian Lee ’22 (basketball, Princeton University).
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The National Boys Basketball team, led by Head Coach Thomas Baudinet, had a very successful inaugural season as an elevated, more competitive program. For the first time in school history, a Perkiomen basketball team made it to the final round of the Pennsylvania Independent Schools Athletic Association (PAISAA) tournament. They faced off against Westtown School where the Panthers suffered a tough loss, 46-41. During the 2021-2022 season, the Panthers were ranked 11th and 15th in the nation. The team also earned the honor of being invited to participate in the 16-team National Prep Championship hosted in Connecticut, featuring the top programs in the country. They were defeated by MVA Prep, 87-83, ending their season 26-11. Since 2016, the Perkiomen basketball program is 58-4 at home with more than 35 graduates playing collegiate basketball. Eleven graduates from the Class of 2022 will continue their basketball careers at the collegiate level.
Perkiomen Boys Basketball
Earns National Attention Four Perkiomen School student-athletes were named to the National High School Coaches Association (NHSCA)
u
Academic All-American list. The NHSCA honors studentathletes from across the nation for their academic and athletic achievements. Each student selected to the list must carry a 3.6 GPA on a 4.0 GPA scale as well as have significant athletic achievement during the year. This year, only 755 student-athletes were chosen to be honored.
HighlightsAthletic
Academic All-Americans Daouda Dembele ’22
Going into the first two home meets of the year, Gabby had her sights set on breaking 25.44 as well as breaking another record: the pool record. In swimming, records in events are kept in two ways, team times and pool times. Team records are only for the members of Perkiomen Girls Swimming team whereas the pool records are anyone who swims in the pool in Perkiomen’s Huttel Natatorium. Sometimes a swimmer from another school will hold the record in another school’s pool. Gabby wanted to make sure Perkiomen kept their name on at least two of the pool records. In the home meet versus Abington Friends on December 10, 2021, she broke the 50-freestyle record that she set out to break a week previously, swimming the event in 25.36 seconds at home to break the Perkiomen pool record. She also broke the pool record for the 100-freestyle, swimming it in 54.97 seconds. Finally, to cap off an impressive streak, she broke the team record once again at the Hill School on December 15, 2021, swimming the 50-freestyle in 25.32 Theseconds.swimming season culminated in the Eastern Championships which were held at Franklin and Marshall College. Eight student-athletes received the honors of being selected to compete at the event: Gabby Jones ’24, Frida Reichwaldt ’23, Josephine (Josi) Rating ’24, Brianna Jones ’23, Zach Glavin ’23, Shane Baird ’23, Robert (Tommy) Saeger ’24, and Jon-Luke Duley ’23. The Panthers competed among regional teams and finished 26th in the girls’ competition and 21st in the boys’ competition.
Zach Glavin ’23
A Record-Breaking Return to the Pool
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After having no meets and no way to compete for the school in the 2020-2021 season, Gabrielle (Gabby) Jones ’24 finally got the chance to put her practice into use in the 2021-2022 season opener versus Baldwin School. Gabby came close to breaking the team record for the 50-freestyle, swimming the event in 25.49 seconds. The record, set in 2017 by Momoka Yamashita ’17, stands at 25.44 seconds
Brianna Jones ’23
Gabby Jones ’24 broke the 200 IM record at the meet, swimming a 2.13.00 which beat her previous best by more than 2.5 seconds. She then broke the 50 Free record to cap off the season with a 24.80. In the girls 200 freestyle relay, the Panthers finished 25th, with a drop of 5 seconds coming within .3 seconds of the school record. The boys 200 medley relay finished 18th, dropping 3 seconds to set a new Panther record.
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Gabby Jones ’24 broke multiple swimming records this year, including the 50 and 100 freestyle team and pool times. 23SUMMER 2022
The 2022 Commencement Ceremony returned to the campus sward. It was an emotional day and moment of celebration, as we applauded the accomplishments of our graduates, heard the words of Kevin and Trish Manferdini, and welcomed back alumni from the Classes of 2020 and 2021.
Both students referenced Perkiomen’s pillars – the unique qualities that define Perkiomen - and through their messages reinforced the school’s motto of Solvitur vivendo, “it is solved by living.” This theme is echoed year to year, class to class, from our founders to the present, and is seen in students’ personal growth, resolve, and problem-solving skills.
q Head of School Mark A. Devey P ’21, ’24 presents Valedictorian Logan Brassington ’22 with his diploma u Mia Skuraton ’22 and Christina Sanchez
PManferdiniSpeakerCommencementKevinH’04,’07,’09,’11
Salutatorian Abirami Chinnakaruppan ’22, who will attend the University of Pittsburgh, came to Perkiomen during the 2019-2020 school year. She referenced that time in her address, sharing, “The last three years have been an incredible experience for me. I learned, I grew, I made mistakes, fell, got up, and always felt supported and encouraged through all the ups and downs that I experienced.”
The Commencement Address was given by Assistant Head of School for Student Life Kevin Manferdini H ’04, P ’07, ’09, ’11. He reminded everyone that there was no playbook during the last two years and applauded the Class of 2022 for their ability to adapt and adjust, persevering through the Withchanges.agoalof being short – but memorable – Mr. Manferdini gave the following advice:
• Don’t hit the snooze button, don’t roll over – face the day. Understand the value of time.
Ninety-three graduates were recognized for their resilience and growth, during a high school experience where their last “normal” year was as 10th graders, when things changed abruptly in the spring of 2020.
Student Life Assistant Trish Manferdini P ’07, ’09, ’11 opened the event with the Invocation, an adaptation from the Harvard Divinity School prayer, asking for blessings of patience, humility, generosity, and gratitude upon the Class of 2022.
In his address, Valedictorian Logan Brassington ’22, who will attend the University of Pennsylvania, shared, “It would have been easy for us to give up on each other or on our school throughout this year and last. However, our class instead chose to dive deeper into what it means to be at Perkiomen, and in true Perkiomen fashion, we reinvented, reimagined, and reconfigured these spaces to create new memories.”
q Salutatorian ChinnakaruppanAbirami’22 u The Class of 2022’s includingrepresentsflageventsoftheyear,thedepartureofKevinManferdiniH’04,P’07,’09,’11andthewarinUkraine
• Never be afraid to try something new, it may surprise you in ways you never expected.
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• Don’t judge others, learn from them and be curious about who they are.
t
2022 Commencement
• Leave here today with the mindset of making a difference whether it is large or small.
Each day go out and give the best of you. We should always strive to be better than we were yesterday.
• Things do not always go as planned and we make mistakes. Admit your mistake, move on and as Ted Lasso says, “Be a goldfish.”
• Find someone in your life who will always be honest with you. Recognize the importance of their words.
Congratulations to the Class of 2022, always stay loyal, tried, and true Commencement.Eachspringseniorartistscreateanartinstallationasagifttotheiruniquegraduatingclass.SophiaTaylor’22andLaurelReese’22createdapiecetohonorthepastandrepresentwheretheyaretoday,displayingphotosofstudentswhentheywereyoungnexttotheirseniorportraits.Handwrittenmessageshighlightedstudents’memoriesandtheirjourneyatPerkiomen.“Thereasonforthisinstallation,andthetitleof Reflection, Remembrance, and Restore, is to highlight how far we have come, reflect on the memories we have created, how hard we have worked to get where we are, and the lives that we have paved for ourselves after Perkiomen,” shared Sophia Taylor.
• Trust in others. If you hold out your hand in trust, you are inviting the best part of that person to step forward.
• Put the phone down – connect with another person face to face. You will be surprised by what you learn.
q Members of the Classes of 2020 and 2021 returned to celebrate with the Class of 2022. q Ryan Dao ’22 and MolinaDaniela’22 25SUMMER 2022
Reflection, Remembrance, and Restore: Senior Art Installation t
•
“These colored pieces are a part of each of us,” said Laurel Reese. “They are partial stories in the pursuit of our goals, a visual small gesture to connect our past to this present moment. We should never forget our past, the friendships made, our achievements here, our successes, and yes, even our failures at times. For it is these failures that made us stronger and taught us lessons on how best to succeed.”
SophiaQuiñones,CarlosTaylor,LaurelReese,andAnyaCrapopreparefortheartinstallationribboncutting. u theirSaraFabianPeterandSmithposewithphotos.
Our vision for the updated student center and outdoor spaces is where students experience collaboration, community-building, and development. Students are the life of our school and the purpose of shape our success. Memories, ideas, and connections are formed in classes, after school, and on the weekends.
During Reunion and Alumni Weekend 2022, Our Moment to Lead Co-ChairCampaignPhilLloyd ’65 donned a Lloyd’s cap and apron to serve ice cream in the future location of the Student Lloyd’s,Center. honoring Phil and his generosity, will be the new café in the Student Center. Student Center is anticipated
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Phase I is taking shape and construction new
Highlights of this area will include a basketball court, ping pong tables, a firepit, swings, four-square and a gaga ball court. The tiered seating built into the gentle slope will help define the space, adding an element of intimacy, as students of all ages assemble for play, spectating, and conversation. No doubt, Perkiomen’s already vibrant student life will be elevated further.
construction of the anticipated in 2022-2023 27SUMMER 2022
is to create a focal point and personal and social of our work - their pursuits the moments in between
Robbie’s repurposed: Imagine Kehs Hall fully dedicated to music, theater, and dance. With practice rooms and an ensemble choral/band area, this expanded space will further emphasize the importance of the performing arts. The glass walls along with the large glass exterior windows will invite interest and promote participation. And with Finnegan’s on the Green, just outside the door, music will now pulsate inside and out, to the delight of all.
Beneath cool shade trees and nestled within the heart of campus, adjacent to the new Student Center, will lie a space for informal gatherings and recreation.
FirstsPerkiomen 28 PERKIOMEN MAGAZINE
by Anne Brassington P ’19, ’22
Perkiomen School is full of firsts. Perkiomen may be a student’s first independent school. A student may, for the first time, realize that accessing faculty and staff is paramount at Perkiomen, possibly feeling the attentiveness of a mentor again and again as they hone their Institute capstone hypothesis. An athlete may step out of their uniform and into a costume for their inaugural musical production. Or just as likely, all of the hard work and coordination may have come together for that perfect first goal of the season! These firsts start to form who they are becoming!
Perkiomen
William and Anne Brassington P ’19, ’22 with Logan Brassington ’22
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While we all come to Perkiomen with our own diverse goals in mind, we all share the common goal of having students be a part of a supportive, progressive community of teachers, staff, and students. Over my family’s seven years at Perkiomen School we have seen this happen best when our community makes a commitment to support the school and shows leadership by putting Perkiomen first when giving. We know that family, friends, and alumni participation is essential in growing the Perkiomen Fund and creates a culture of giving, revealing to the community and other donors that we are serious about this educational environment. The Perkiomen Fund helps to sustain programming, including the Institutes, travel for sports teams, robust professional development for the teachers, and of course the amazing productions and events that we host. But it is more than that. When students hang out on the campus green, create memories at the firepits, and dive deep into their passion using college-level journal subscriptions that spark their curiosity, it is through the generosity of the Perkiomen Fund. When we give to Perkiomen, we are simply giving opportunities. This is why our family has prioritized Perkiomen in our pledge to give back to the school for all of the firsts our sons have experienced. We are grateful to the school for each of them.
Leading from Schoolhouse Road, this new entrance road will be a first contact point for all visitors to Perkiomen, including prospective students and athletic competitors. For alumni, this view will blend the familiar with the new, welcoming them home to their old stomping grounds. Winding down green landscapes and passing through the athletic fields, this scenic entryway will leave a lasting first impression of Perkiomen’s striking grounds and architecture for all who visit campus.
Talking to Fred Ahlborn ’63 is like catching up with a dear friend. Picture him at Perkiomen for five years in the early 1960s with a penchant for fun and a trick or two up his sleeve. During study hall, you might find Ahlborn walking with his buddies down to the Hendricks Little Store for a snack. The Hendricks were surrogate grandparents to many students. As Ahlborn describes these casual walks down Seminary Street, you can almost feel a crusty, warm roll and piping cup of hot chocolate in your hands.
Fred Ahlborn
As an upperclassman, Ahlborn and 10 friends purchased a 1953 Oldsmobile that was discretely stored in a rented garage just off campus. They drove to a cabin near Allentown, Pennsylvania, when they needed an escape from bologna and cheese sandwiches served at Sunday brunch. Ahlborn loved exploring. The school-sponsored trips to see games at other schools or to tour local factories are some of his favorite memories. These trips left an impression on Ahlborn. He was excited to see the bigger world outside of Pennsburg. Ahlborn was married in 1965 and recalls an afternoon near Christmas when he was ice skating with his wife and some friends. He answered the phone from a Lieutenant with the National Guard. On his birthday that following year, he traveled to Fort Jackson in Alhborn Way, new entrance to Perkiomen School
Lasting impressions from Perkiomen School inspire
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Ahlborn ’63 inspire alumnus to give back
Reunion and Alumni Weekend. Though the Little Store is no longer in existence, he can still walk up the steps of Kriebel Hall where he and his friends once pushed the Athletic Director Hal Cragin’s Volkswagen Beetle up the stairs into the teacher’s lounge as a prank for everyone to see during morning chapel.
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If you would like to make a gift through your IRA or consider a planned gift to Perkiomen School, contact Director of Development Karl Welsh at 215-541-5048 or kwelsh@perkiomen.org.
South Carolina to begin his 21-year career with the Army National Guard. Ahlborn went on to do driver testing for the 109th Infantry. He traveled to different armories around the United States and tested soldiers for their licensures: everything from using kitchen stoves, air compressors, driving trucks, and armored personnel carriers. After retiring as an E-6 Staff Sergeant, Ahlborn worked for a supply company. It wasn’t long before he set his sights on becoming an entrepreneur, and he started his own plumbing and electrical business. He retired in 1999. Today, you might find Ahlborn exploring historical locations, taking cruises with his wife, and enjoying the Florida weather. Most recently, he included a trip to Perkiomen in June for
The stories Ahlborn shares are a reminder that every person linked to Perkiomen has a story unique to them in the era they lived and were connected to campus. Ahlborn has committed a legacy gift to Perkiomen in the form of a trust and IRA that will, in his words, benefit somebody else in their journey at the school. He gives back because Perkiomen made an impression. It was at Perkiomen where Fred Ahlborn learned to make lasting impressions of his own.
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Reunion Weekendand2022
Ken Becker ’72, Nancy Kelly ’72 and Tim Snyder ’82 connect Friday evening.
Welcome back! We certainly missed having our alumni on campus these last two years. With a new format for the event, and some physical campus changes, Reunion and Alumni Weekend 2022 may have appeared a bit different, but the Perkiomen Pride hasn’t changed, reminding us all that “when we wander, wander, wander, far away from you, Perkiomen, we are loyal, loyal, tried and true.”
George Myers ’71 and Gilbert Rosario ’71 catch up at the Reunion Dinner on Friday evening.
The annual Clark Kreger ’92 Memorial Alumni Lacrosse Classic and Hall of Athletic Honor gave us an opportunity to celebrate our athletes, while the Parade of Classes, dinner, and dancing provided great fun for everyone. Thank you to all our alumni and their families who attended. We hope to see you next year!
There were opportunities for alumni to reconnect, reminisce, and learn more about the Perkiomen of today and our school’s future. The Our Moment to Lead campus tour on Saturday afternoon was a behind-the-scenes look at the places and spaces we will enhance through our capital campaign.
While we honored all classes, special focus was given to the 50th and 25th Reunion Classes and to those who have touched the lives of many Perkiomenites. We honored the lives of Perkiomen faculty members Wayne Engle, Paul Haussman, Helen Higman, Mike Wampole, and Dick Werkheiser during the Memorial Service. We also celebrated Kevin H ’04 and Trish Manferdini P ’07, ’09, ’11, who depart Perkiomen after a combined 77 years of service to our community.
and2022Alumni Ken Stiles ’60 and Craig Raisig ’60 pause in front of Kriebel Hall. Gabe Delp ’19 and Wes Johnson ’17 performed throughout Friday evening. Lane Schultz ’62 and Mike Hill ’62 get ready for the Parade of Classes. 33SUMMER 2022
Celebration.Manferdiniduringspeaking’09,H’04,ManferdiniKevin’98CiaramellaBrinaembracesP’07,’11afterthe 34 PERKIOMEN MAGAZINE
Celebrating their 40th Reunion is Tim Snyder ’82, Kate Coulter Milko ’82, John Shewell ’82, Anya Longwell ’82, Mara Balodis Householder ’82. Alumni enjoyed playing in the annual Clark Kreger ’92 Memorial Alumni Lacrosse Classic. LaShonda Brown ’01 and Karlee Fain ’00 reunite on Schulz Plaza.
Wendy McDonald ’72, Nancy Kelly ’72, Mike Gibson ’72, and Larry Cohen ’72, celebrating their 50th Reunion, pose with their class flag.
Reunion and Alumni
Alumni Weekend 2022
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Phil Kelly ’73 and Pete Mendelson ’73 connect Saturday during lunch. Director of Learning and Baseball Coach Michael Romasco P ’05, ’06 and Director of Athletics and Baseball Head Coach Ken Baker P ’86, ’91 congratulate Ian Vazquez-Benitze ’10 on his induction into the Perkiomen School Hall of Athletic Honor. Rick Ridall ’84 introduces his daughter Mikaela Ridall ’16 to Former Chaplain John Sakalouckas H ’02. John Ziegler P ’00, Kevin Manferdini H’04, P ’07, ’09, ’11, Trish Manferdini P ’07, ’09, ’11, and Jeanine Ziegler P ’00 celebrate Saturday evening.Sydnee Reddy ’19 and Kristine Rivera ’19 enjoying the celebration on Saturday night.
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The fall theatrical production of Clue, a farce meets murder mystery, kept the audience laughing while trying to guess who did it, where, and with what. Held outdoors, Clue was Perkiomen’s first live theatrical performance since 2020.
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Class Notes
In September, Tina Evans ’80, Mercedes Simpson Thomas ’82, and Cherie Whitter ’82 had a mini reunion in Bermuda. t Earl Kight ’84 hosted Head of School Mark A. Devey and Alumni Director Diana WeirSmith ’85, P ’19 at Cutwater Spirits Headquarters in San Diego. They chatted about a variety of topics, including entrepreneurs, lacrosse, college athletics, and more.
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1970s u Down in Florida, Carol Ruth Weber ’78 and her husband, John Telese, hosted Alumni Director Diana Weir-Smith ’85, P ’19 during her visit in February. 1980s u Chris Easton ’80 lives in Tarpon Springs, FL with his wife, Carlynn. He met up with Alumni Director Diana WeirSmith ’85, P ’19 in February.
Multi Grammy-winning John Newton ’67 presented sound engineering to Perkiomen students during an X-Period this year. John founded Soundmirror in 1972. Since then, Soundmirror has grown to become the premier classical music recording and production company. For more on John, Soundmirror, and their 116 Grammy nominations visit www.soundmirror.com.
1960s u Out in Phoenix, AZ, Joe Kahula ’61 met with Head of School Mark A. Devey. Joe said he’ll be back for the next reunion. He let us know that he and his longtime love, Joey, were married this year. Congrats! t Happy Birthday, Eric Kolbe ’61! Perkiomen students sent a handmade card to Eric to celebrate his birthday in February. q Fred Ahlborn ’63 and his wife Gloria graciously hosted Kevin Smith and Alumni Director Diana Weir-Smith ’85, P ’19 while they were in town to see a ball game. Fred is a featured Our Moment to Lead donor.
Suzanna1990sBrugler
’94 , APR+M, is a military diplomat, government spokesperson, and strategic advisor with a Master of Arts in Foreign Affairs from U. S. Naval War College. Currently stationed in Bahrain, Suzanna was a featured X- Period speaker this year. Her presentation focused on workplace leadership, facing adversity, and our global community. Her distinguished career includes experience at the Naval Academy, The George Washington University, and Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center. In her most recent assignment, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, U.S. 5th Fleet she is a founding member of the Commander’s Initiatives Group (CIG). CIG is an in-house think tank for U.S. 5th Fleet. She describes her position as a “dream job” - a flag deck advisor and speechwriter to the region’s senior military officer and command leadership and “all who support the hardest working Sailors and Marines in the Fleet.”
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Maurice Neme ’97 visited campus in April. He enjoyed catching up with Assistant Head of School for Student Life Kevin Manferdini and Athletic Director Ken Baker. t Juan Olivero ’99 and his son attended a Perkiomen baseball game in Puerto Rico during spring break. 2000s
t Victor Rodriguez ’01, Head of School Mark Devey, Juanky Sierra ’13, and John Williams ’13 had an opportunity to catch up during a visit to Puerto Rico, where the team was meeting andPerkiomenprospectivestudentsfamilies.
u Henry Beals ’97 stopped by campus this spring for a surprise visit with classmate Jonathan Moser ’97, Assistant Head of School for Academic Affairs. In September, Gage Chalmers ’98 visited campus to catch up with folks. As an X-period speaker, Dr. Kristin Burns-Huang ’97 presented her research, specifically her work with tuberculosis, as Assistant Professor of Research in Microbiology and Immunization at Weill Cornell Medical College.
t Jose Barcardi ’89 is living in Longwood, FL with his family. He had coffee with Alumni Director Diana WeirSmith ’85, P ’19 where they talked about all things Perkiomen.
t In June, Kerry Plunkett ’96 , her husband, Bob, and sons, Teddy and James, had a delightful day and tour at Perkiomen. Kerry loved seeing the new views of campus and learning about the Institutes. They also had a good time reminiscing and enjoyed a snack in Parents Hall.
t
Class Notes continued from previous page 40 PERKIOMEN MAGAZINE
t Behind the scenes of your favorite sports broadcast might be Adam Olson ’03, Live Television Broadcast Specialist. He has worked with many venues and organizations including Heinz Field, the University of Pittsburgh, PNC Park, PPG Paints Arena, The US Open, and most recently Augusta National. At Augusta National, he worked with CBS Sports’ “On the Range” show using Top Trace and ARL technologies.
Walden Maurisant ’03 shared his global journey with current students during X-Period. Walden is a recruiter with Visible Alpha, an investment tech firm. He has spent quite a bit of time in China as a bar owner, and teacher at the Mercan School and Shanxi Experimental School. He also spent time with the Wight Foundation as an Outreach Coordinator and teacher. Melissa Weinstein ’05 of Sunburst Property Management supported our X- Period programming by speaking to students about real estate property management, taking risks and learning to become your best self. u This spring, Miguel Valcarcel ’06 hosted members of Perkiomen’s baseball team in his home during the team’s biannual trip to Puerto Rico. Miguel also spent the week working with the team’s pitchers. Miguel played at St. John’s University, was drafted by the Colorado Rockies, and played Double-A baseball in Puerto Rico. He is currently the Director of Housekeeping at the Vanderbilt Hotel in San Juan. He is pictured with Associate Head of School Carol Dougherty P ’11, ’13.
2010s
u Congratulations to Kush Singh ’08 and his bride, Rachita, who were married on December 25, 2021. At the traditional three-day festivities in Mumbai were classmate Collin Glass ’08 and his parents, Kathy and Dennis. Gaetan DeSimone ’08 is a Senior Motion Designer with Nickelodeon. When he presented during an X-Period, Perkiomen students were able to hear about all his cool jobs including working with companies like MTV, WWE, Forbes, and Magilla Entertainment. Min Jae Park ’09 is currently working on his Master of Science in Business Analytics with Columbia Engineering and Columbia Business School. During his X- Period presentation, he shared knowledge he gained as a Global Senior Logistics and Distribution Analyst at Target Corporation.
On a sunny April day, Sam Cox ’11 came to campus and had the opportunity to see his friend Associate Director of Admissions John Williams ’13 u Drew Wright ’11 traveled back from Sweden to visit campus. Drew is a senior programmer at King. His company develops many of the games we play on our mobile devices.
SouthAssistantEnglishScholarshipFulbrightasanTeachinginMokpo,Korea. Isabella San Miguel ’15 stopped by campus to say hello while she was in town with her mom to run a half marathon. In December, she earned a Master of Science in forensic medicine. t Moritz Schellenberg ’15 was in town from Berlin, Germany. He stopped in and visited with former teammate John Williams ’13. Moritz was in the United States to attend the wedding of Courtney Flynn ’12!
In February, Destinee Astheimer ’15 passed the Washington, DC Bar Exam. u We loved our visit with Maddie Ferdock ’15 and Jae Yup Jung ’13 this spring. Maddie completed her
Levi Stoudt ’16 is playing for the Arkansas Travelers, a Minor League Baseball team affiliated with the Seattle Mariners. u Eric Zhao ’16 now lives in Katy, TX. In March, he spent some time visiting with his Perkiomen advisor Director of Development Karl Welsh. Recently he graduated with a Master of Science in business analytics from the University of Texas, CongratulationsAustin. to Nick Guadarrama ’16 of the University of New Hampshire Wildcats for joining the 1,000 Point Club in January. In his senior season, he became the 34th player in the university’s history to reach this milestone. Nick will be playing his 5th year of eligibility at Florida International AfterUniversity.graduating from Smith College with a BS in engineering, Halle Brown ’17 is now working as an Avionics Test Engineer at Astra in Alameda, California.
Entrepreneur Naial Casanovas-Mack ’16 was an X-Period speaker this year. Naial spoke to students about the risks entrepreneurs take and how to make your passion your profession.
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During an X-Period, Eric Fanning ’12 shared his experiences working as a police officer in Seattle, a cadet in the Washington State Police Department, and a professional basketball player in Europe. Eric is a graduate of Boston University with a master’s degree in criminal justice and police science.
From February to June, Maggie Dougherty ’13 hiked the entirety of the Appalachian Trail, through 14 states – Georgia to Maine. Ryan Kelly ’14 shared his experience as a data engineer during an X-period this school year. Ryan works with Moody Analytics and discussed several topics including how to bring data into a centralized space to make predictions, a collaboration between Artificial Intelligence and human intel as well as how AI uses historic data to make predictions based on patterns.
t Sasha Vorlicky ’15 is working for Charles de Lisle in Sausalito, CA. The Office of Charles de Lisle is a multidisciplinary design firm whose projects focus on interior design, innovation, and execution of handmade custom furnishings, product design, and decorative arts. He spent some time this fall with Alumni Director Diana Weir-Smith ’85, P ’19.
u Silva Huang ’21 and Adeline Rong ’20 returned to campus for a visit in November and had an opportunity to catch up with faculty. Silva is a student at the University of Rochester, while Adeline is attending Barnard College.
Honor Huff ’21 dominated at Virginia Military Institute this year and was named to the Southern Conference Rookie Team. He was also named the Virginia Sports Information Directors (VaSID) Rookie of the Year. Honor will follow his coach to the University of Tennessee Chattanooga in the 2023 school year. We were so excited to see recent grads Faith Nungesser ’21 and Ben Vanelli ’21 at the Saturday night performance of Clue, Perkiomen’s first live theater performance since 2020. This spring, Ruby Peeler ’21 spent four months in South Korea for the Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) Program. The CLS Program is a summer study abroad opportunity for American college and university students to learn languages essential to America’s engagement with the world. Each summer, CLS provides rigorous academic instruction in 15 languages that are critical to America’s national security and economic prosperity.
qu
Have some news to share with Perkiomen? Send your Alumni Highlights to Diana Weir-Smith, Alumni Director: dweirsmith@perkiomen.org
The Office of College Counseling welcomed back Abbey Glavin ’20, who talked to students about the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC). Abbey participates in the Army ROTC program at James Madison University. Abbey is pictured with Director of College Counseling David Antoniewicz.
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Congratulations to KJ Rhodes ’18 and Ousmane Diop ’18 who are teammates on Indiana University of Pennsylvania men’s basketball team and won the 2022 Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) Championship. They went all the way to the NCAA Division II Final Four.
t In May 2022, Jeff Xu ’18 graduated with distinction from California College of the Arts (CCA) with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in interior design. Jeff visited with his former Perkiomen advisor, Director of Development Karl Welsh and snapped this selfie while at CCA. This April, Chris Arcidiacono ’19 went to the NCAA Final Four, playing for the Villanova Wildcats. Many members of the Perkiomen community watched Chris live on television, cheering from across the world. from 2020s
–’28!TrentKelloggCoachBasketballDanandKellogg
Former Perkiomen teammates Tony Lin ’18 and David Smith ’19 caught up in San Diego! David was in town with University of Connecticut baseball playing against University of San Diego. They joined Head of School Mark A. Devey for dinner in Old Town. David also had a couple of visitors at UConn’s Elliott Ball Park
Class Notes continued
u
t Can Dalli ’21 is a Division III National Champion on the Men’s Basketball team at Randolph Macon College. This is Randolph Macon’s first national title. Can and classmate David Cross ’21, playing basketball at Babson College, met in the NCAA Tournament.
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Mrs. Higman (I could never call her Helen) was the foundation of the Office of the Headmaster working with John B. Hewett and then George K. Allison before her retirement from Perkiomen. She returned to campus for the Hewett Concert and many other events through the years. When Mrs. Higman did return, she greeted everyone with a warm smile and took the time to check-in and ask questions of faculty and students. Her, grace, warmth, and whit will echo in the halls of Kriebel.
Sean Pollock ’84
John L. Mather, III ’48
James
Lisa M. Tober Smith ’87
David W. Doering ’64 Max Fridman ’70 Alan A. Baldeck ’72 Eric L. Leinbach, Esq. ’72 R. Kubiak ’74 Gregory Swan ’75 Peter Larkin ’78 Richard F. Werkheiser, Former Faculty Member
When I hear anyone talking about the Philadelphia Eagles I immediately think of Richard. He was a loyal fan of his team, and the ribbing would happen annually when my Giants played his Eagles. Richard came to Perkiomen in the fall of 1982 as an assistant football coach. He was a dedicated teacher for more than 50 years and finished out his career at Perkiomen. While continuing to coach football and basketball, he became a campus gardener. After he retired, you would still find him in the campus gardens listening to his beloved jazz while planting and pruning. In more recent years, you could find Richard on the sidelines, in the bleachers, or in the outfield, cheering for our Perkiomen athletes.
Alfonso “Chipper” Gentile, III ’07
Meryl W. Markley ’47, GP ’00
Wilmer R. Schultz P’83, GP ’11 ’12, ’13, Former Member of the Board of Trustees I knew Wilmer as a proud grandfather and great-grandfather. Over the years I always enjoyed seeing “Pappy” on campus for games and events, including Vespers. I appreciated the way he listened to travel stories and shared his passion for the outdoors. Wilmer also told wonderful stories about his connections to Perkiomen through his family, dating back to the turn of the century. His knowledge of the history of the Upper Perkiomen and Lehigh Valleys was impressive. Wilmer served as a Trustee and was a longtime supporter of Perkiomen School.
Bonnie S. Buchan ’83
Caroline “Khaki” Butera Murphy ’81 Michael Grimont ’79
Frederick Lanfear ’82
Peter
Conrad
Tributes by Diana Weir-Smith ’85, P ’19
Helen Higman P ’84, GP ’22, Former Staff Member
In Memoriam
Samuel E. Fast, Jr. ’55 J. Hudec ’56 John M. Curtis, Jr. ’60 Luis Betancourt ’62 T. Burns, Jr. ’62
43SUMMER 2022
Welcome, Class of 2022! No matter where you go, Perkiomen School will always be the alma mater you can call home. Congratulations to our newest alumni. You are officially Panthers for life. - The Office of Alumni & Development 44 PERKIOMEN MAGAZINE
Percussionist Garrett McKenzie ’24 gave a high-intensity performance during the Spring Music Concert.
Perkiomen School 200 Seminary Street Pennsburg, Pennsylvania 18073 USA ADDRESS CORRECTION REQUESTED The Perkiomen community inspires students to risk becoming their best. PERKIOMEN.ORG U.S.POSTAGENON-PROFIT PAID PERMIT NO. XXX ANYTOWN, PA
