Portsmouth Abbey School Summer 2015 Alumni Bulletin by Portsmouth Abbey School

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THIS IS YOUR REUNION YEAR! We have a fantastic line-up of events for the entire family! creating some great new memories in the process!

September 25-27, 2015

Visit www.portsmouthabbey.org/reunion for more

Questions? Want to get involved? Contact Patty Gibbons at 401- 643-1281 or pgibbons@portsmouthabbey.org

information on the schedule of events,

SUMMER ALUMNI BULLETIN 2015

and members of the Diman Club (alumni from all classes prior to 1965)

A BB E Y S C HO OL PORTSMOUTH ABBE Y SCHOOL

1945 - 1950 - 1955 - 1960 - 1965 - 1970 - 1975 - 1980 - 1985 - 1990 - 1995 - 2000 - 2005 - 2010

Come back and reminisce with classmates while

P ORT S M O U T H

Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Providence, RI Permit No. 30

285 Cory’s Lane Portsmouth, Rhode Island 02871 www.portsmouthabbey.org

accommodations, golf outings, class dinners, babysitting and more!

SUMMER ALUMNI BULLETIN 2015

MISSION STATEMENT The aim of Portsmouth Abbey School is to help young men and women grow in knowledge and grace. Grounded in the Catholic faith and 1500-year-old Benedictine intellectual tradition, the School fosters: Reverence for God and the human person Respect for learning and order Responsibility for the shared experience of community life

BOARD OF REGENTS Right Rev. Dom Caedmon Holmes, O.S.B. Abbot and Chancellor Portsmouth, RI Mr. W. Christopher Behnke ’72, P ’12, ’15 Chairman Chicago, IL Dom Joseph Byron, O.S.B. Portsmouth, RI Mr. Creighton O. Condon ’74, P ’07, ’10 Jamestown, RI Sr. Suzanne Cooke, R.S.C.J. Miami, FL Dom Francis Crowley, O.S.B. Portsmouth, RI Mrs. Kathleen Cunningham P ’08,’09,’11,’14 Dedham, MA Mr. Peter Ferry ’75, P ’16, ‘17 Republic of Singapore Mrs. Frances Fisher P ’15 San Francisco, CA Dr. Timothy P. Flanigan ’75, P ’06, ’09, ’11,’19 Tiverton, RI Mr. Peter S. Forker ’69 Chicago, IL

Mr. Patrick Gallagher ’81, P ’15 Providence, RI Mrs. Margaret S. Healey P ’91 New Vernon, NJ Mr. Denis Hector ’70 Miami, FL Dr. Gregory Hornig ’68, P’ 01 Prairie Village, KS Rev. Dom Damian Kearney, O.S.B. ’45 Portsmouth, RI Mr. Peter Kennedy ’64, P ’07, ’08, ’15 Big Horn, WY Mr. William Keogh ’78, P ’13 Saddle River, NJ Dr. Mary Beth Klee P ’04 Hanover, NH Ms. Devin McShane P ’09, ’11 Providence, RI Rev. Dom Gregory Mohrman, O.S.B. St. Louis, MO Mr. Philip V. Moyles, Jr. ’82 Annual Fund Chair Rye, NY

Mr. and Mrs. Emmett O’Connell P ‘16, ’17 Co-Chairs, Parents’ Association Stowe, VT Mr. Shane O’Neil ‘65 Bedford, MA Mr. John Perreira P ’05 Portsmouth, RI

Thank you! We did it!!

Mr. Peter J. Romatowski ’68 McLean, VA Right Rev. Dom Matthew Stark, O.S.B. Prior Portsmouth, RI Mr. Rowan G.P. Taylor P ’13, ‘17, ’18 New Canaan, CT Mr. William Winterer ’87 Boston, MA Emeritus Mr. Peter Flanigan R ’41, P ’75, ’83, GP ’06, ’09, ’11 Purchase, NY Mr. Thomas Healey ’60, P ’91 New Vernon, NJ Mr. William Howenstein R ’52, P ’87, GP ’10 Grosse Pointe Farms, MI

Cover: Diploma in hand, graduate Meghan McCarthy shares a joyful embrace with a fellow classmate following Commencement ceremonies in May. Meghan, daughter of teachers Shane and Susan McCarthy, was a member of the largest class ever to graduate from Portsmouth Abbey School – 115 graduates. She was elected to membership in the Cum Laude Society and was the recipient of the Christian Doctrine Award for general excellence as well as the Modern Language Award for excellence in Spanish, the Altar Server Award, the Saint Gregory Award, and the William Barry McCoy Memorial Award, elected by the monastic faculty, “for interest and growth in things of the spirit and for influence upon his or her classmates, through Christian attitude and constructive leadership.” In addition, Meghan was awarded the Vittoria Isabelle “Izzy” Marley Award at the 2015 Pippy O’Connor Independent School Girls’ Golf Tournament. Meghan is headed to Brown University in the fall.

We extend our sincere thanks and gratitude to the more than 1,500 donors whose more than 2,500 gifts propelled the 2014-15 Annual Fund over the $1.5 million mark for the first time in School history. Moreover, this is the second consecutive year that you – our alumni, parents and friends – have helped us not only reach, but exceed, our record-setting Annual Fund goal. Thank you for your continued, demonstrated support of and confidence in Portsmouth Abbey School. Well Done, Ravens!

PORTSMOUTH ABBEY SCHOOL ANNUAL FUND 2014-15

MESSAGE FROM THE ABB OT, RIGHT REV. DOM CAEDMON HOLMES, O.S.B. Dear Friends of Portsmouth Abbey, This year has been declared by Pope Francis as the Year of Consecrated Life. “Consecrated life” is the now-preferred term for what we used to call “religious life,” that is, the life of those who have professed religious vows: monks and nuns, friars, religious sisters and brothers. The vows of Poverty, Chastity, and Obedience are a more intense way of living out the commitment to Christ undertaken in Baptism. Whereas all Christians are called and consecrated by Baptism to take up their cross and follow Christ, vowed men and women undertake to leave everything for a closer imitation of Jesus’ own pattern of life. They abandon themselves to God’s care by giving up ownership of money and personal property. They strive to make God their only love through foregoing intimacies of marriage and family life. They surrender themselves to God’s will by giving up their own plans and wishes, to follow the direction of their religious superior and community. Benedictine monks and nuns pronounce their vows in a somewhat different form: “Stability, Conversatio morum, and Obedience.” Stability entails staying for the rest of one’s life in the community and the place where one has professed vows – unlike being stationed in a variety of different places during one’s active life, as is usual for other, non-monastic religious. Conversatio morum can be translated as fidelity to the monastic lifestyle, that is, to the things monks ordinarily do, such as following the timetable of the monastic community, assiduous prayer both in common and in private, dedication to spiritual reading or lectio divina, a certain predilection for silence, and staying put within the confines of the property of the monastery. Pope Francis says that the aims he envisions for religious during this special year are “to look to the past with gratitude, to live the present with passion, and to embrace the future with hope.” In this present, brief article, there is only space to treat the first of these aims: looking to the past with gratitude. The other two may be taken up in a subsequent Bulletin. The Pope says it would be appropriate during this year for each religious family to reflect on its origins and history. By telling our story, we thank God for all his gifts but also humbly confess our weakness and failure to make the most of what we have been given – and in that weakness, we experience the Lord’s merciful love. Also we bear public witness to the holiness and vitality of so many who have followed Jesus in the consecrated life. The origins of Portsmouth Abbey stretch back to the first Christian monks, the Desert Fathers of Egypt and Syria in the fourth century, who left everything to devote themselves to God in remote places. Living mostly alone and supporting themselves by the work of their hands, they gave themselves to meditation on the Scriptures and to prayer, to the interior struggle against vice and toward virtue, encouraging and bearing patiently with one another. The first of these was Saint Anthony. In his late teens he sold his inheritance, gave the proceeds to the poor, and moved out into the Egyptian desert to serve God for the rest of his life in solitary asceticism and prayer. When someone asked him for advice on how to live, he said, “Don’t trust in your own righteousness. Don’t worry about a thing once it’s done. Control tongue and belly.” The Life of Anthony, written soon after his death, became the equivalent of a modern-day best-seller and inspired many to imitate him.

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One of those imitators in Sixth-Century Italy was Saint Benedict, who mentored those who were attracted to his way of life and organized them in community in monasteries which were the embryo of the Benedictine Order. He compiled a written Rule, which remains a fundamental guiding document for Benedictine monasteries to this day. There he plots out a daily timetable, divided among prayer, reading, work, and rest. He delineates his vision: “We must establish a school of the Lord’s service... As we progress in our life and in faith, we shall with hearts expanded and with indescribable sweetness of love run in the way of God’s commandments; so that never departing from His guidance, but persevering in His teaching in the monastery until death, we may by patience share in the sufferings of Christ, that we may be privileged also to be partakers in His kingdom... Whoever, therefore, you are who hasten to your heavenly homeland, fulfill with Christ’s help this least of Rules which we have written for beginners; and then at length you will arrive, under God’s protection, at the more lofty peaks of doctrine and virtue.” St. Benedict is renowned for his humility, single-minded devotion to Christ, understanding of human nature, and emphasis on communal life and hospitality. Half a century after St. Benedict, another monk inspired by him, Pope Gregory the Great, sent monks from Rome to evangelize Anglo-Saxon England. Monks were active in spreading the Christian faith there, in governing the Church throughout the Middle Ages as monk-bishops, in propagating learning and culture. The medieval history of England can scarcely be told without attention to the role of the monks. Their influence was brought to a sudden end in the 16th century with the royal suppression of the monasteries and of all houses of consecrated life subsequent to the king’s separation of his realm from the Catholic Church. Some abbots and monks resisted and were martyred, the rest were dispersed. Benedictine life disappeared from England. At the beginning of the 17th century, it germinated once again in new communities founded on the continent of Europe. The English Benedictines of the 17th and 18th centuries pledged their readiness to be sent back incognito to England to engage in ministry to the Catholics there, even though this was officially regarded as treason, punishable by a gruesome death, as suffered bravely by a number of them. It was not until after the French Revolution that these Benedictines were allowed to return to England and continue in their home country the pastoral and educational work which they still engage in to this day. Two American monks of English Benedictine monasteries – both converts from Episcopalianism – came back to the USA in the first quarter of the 20th century and founded Portsmouth Priory, as it was then called. Dom Leonard Sargent had been an Episcopalian monk at the Holy Cross Monastery on the Hudson River, but after his conversion to the Catholic Church entered the English monastery of Downside. With his abbot’s permission, he purchased the Manor House in 1918 and took up monastic life there. Dom Hugh Diman as an Episcopalian deacon had been founding headmaster of St. George’s School in Newport. His decision to join the Catholic Church in 1916 necessitated his leaving St. George’s. Eventually he became a Benedictine at Fort Augustus Abbey in Scotland, from which his abbot sent him back to Aquidneck Island in 1926, to found what is now Portsmouth Abbey School. Reflecting on the combination of prayerful devotion to Christ, perseverance, and availability for self-sacrifice and mission, which characterized our monastic forebears from the 4th through the 20th centuries, inspires and humbles the monks of Portsmouth today. Please pray with us that the Lord and Portsmouth’s heavenly patrons, Our Lady of Peace and Saint Gregory the Great, may grace us with the strength and dedication to follow in their footsteps and, in some degree, to live up to their example.

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Stay Connected

IN THIS ISSUE

To keep up with general news about Portsmouth Abbey School, we encourage you to bookmark the www.portsmouthabbey.org website. If you are an alumnus/a, please visit and join our online Alumni Community. Check our listing of upcoming alumni events here on campus and around the country. And please remember to update your contact information on our Alumni pages. There you can find out more about Reunion 2015, our Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament, share news and search for fellow alumni around the world: www.portsmouthabbey.org/page/ alumni/ae. To submit class notes and photos (must be 1-6 MB in size), please email: alumni@portsmouthabbey.org or mail to the Portsmouth Abbey School Office of Development & Alumni Affairs, 285 Cory’s Lane, Portsmouth, RI 02871. The Portsmouth Abbey School Alumni Bulletin is published bi-annually for alumni, parents and friends by Portsmouth Abbey School, a Benedictine Catholic independent boarding school for young men and women in Forms III-VI (grades 9-12) in Portsmouth, Rhode Island. The editors reserve the right to revise articles for content, length, grammar, magazine style, and suitability to the mission of the School. Comments and opinions may be sent to communications@portsmouthabbey.org. Please include your name and phone number. Headmaster: Daniel McDonough Director of Development: Matthew Walter Editors: Kathy Heydt, Katherine Giblin Stark Art Director: Kathy Heydt Photography: Billy Black, Jez Coulson, Andrea Hansen, Kate Whitney Lucey, Louis Walker, Bill Rakip, Kathy Stark, Kathy Heydt Individual photos found in alumni profiles and class notes have been supplied courtesy of our alumni.

Message From Abbot Caedmon, Rt. Rev. Dom Caedmon Holmes, O.S.B.

Letter from the Chairman of the Board of Regents Chris Behnke ’81, P ’12,’15

Student Achievements

Faculty Notes

Kevin Morrissey: The New Geometry Program at Portsmouth Abbey

The Ordination of Rev. Dom Gregory Havill, O.S.B.

Portsmouth Institute 2015 by Christopher Fisher, Executive Director 15 Appalachia Service Trip 2014 Reflections by Dr. Gene Renz ’62 16 Culinary Arts Club at Portsmouth Abbey

Prize Day and Commencement 2015

Our Commencement Speaker, Rev. Joseph Healey, M.M. ’56 29 by Zoe Butler ’16 History and Evolution of Portsmouth Abbey School As a Catholic & Benedictine School by Rev. Dom Damain Kearney, O.S.B. ’45

News from the Office of College Counseling by Former Director of College Counseling Mary McDonald 34 Message From Director of Development & Alumni Affairs Matthew Walter

Alumni Merit Scholarship Program

Alumni Profile: James Tasca by Kathy Giblin Stark P ’13,’15 38 Admission Report

Winter/Spring Athletics

Milestones 46 Class Notes

ALUMNI BULLETIN SUMMER 2015

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF REGENTS, CHRIS BEHNKE ‘81, P ’12, ’15 I write this having just returned from Commence-

Each group had been challenged and changed by the

ment Exercises for the Class of 2015, of which my

other over these four years. The meaning of “commit-

son, Will, was a member. It was the largest class

ment” at the Abbey is multifaceted, and one cannot

in Portsmouth Abbey School’s history, making the

miss its existence while in the presence of the monks,

graduation festivities feel amplified. I was struck

faculty, and students on such a momentous occasion.

by how many parents and students echoed my

As promised, our children have grown together in

bittersweet feelings about the nature of the week-

knowledge and grace. They move forward fortified,

end. Our shared experience was the hint of sadness

confident and eager to embrace the world beyond

we felt, seeing the end of our time as parents as

Portsmouth. Yet, they are retaining an enduring, inner

we watched our children graduate with the Class of

gift to guide and ground them.

2015. We all recognized the rare and transformative experiences our children and we had lived together over these past four years.

Will’s uncles – John, Class of 1976, and Steve, Class of 1978 – were present at the graduation with me, Class of 1981, and my daughter, Greta, Class

I shook hands with 115 strong, informed young men

of 2012. The span of time represented by our family

and women as they walked across the stage, diplo-

– nearly 40 years – highlighted both Portsmouth Ab-

mas in hand. Throughout Prize Day and Commence-

bey’s evolution and consistency. Portsmouth remains

ment, I was deeply struck and inspired by our stu-

grounded in an ongoing commitment to its core

dents and faculty. Clearly, their pride and enthusiasm

values. While many aspects of the world are changing

reflected a mutual sense of success and gratitude,

and abandoning these footholds, the Abbey is not.

for they all invested greatly in their time together.

We send a loud and clear message to our commu-

P ORTSM O U T H A BB E Y S C HO OL

“The meaning of ‘commitment’ at the Abbey is multifaceted, and one cannot miss its existence while in the presence of the monks, faculty, and students on such a momentous occasion.”

nity that we know who we are, we are proud of this identity, and we firmly adhere to our principles. This separates and defines our graduates; they possess intellectual prowess, social awareness, and a moral compass. This is a powerful and compelling combination. I am pleased to report that Portsmouth recently was ranked prominently in two separate boarding school rankings. Remaining firm in our principles has served to set us apart from our frequently cited peer schools, and we acknowledge that difference proudly, for it adds an indelible breadth and depth to each student’s experience here. Portsmouth Abbey’s Benedictine ethos serves as an ongoing backdrop and guide that creates an enviroment where students thrive. Our students grow in grace and faith, becoming confident and competent as they go forth as engaged and responsible citizens of the world. These qualities are readily apparent in the graduating Class of 2015. Our future is bright as we welcome the Class of 2019. We are eager and proud to join them as they embark upon their own individual and collective journeys. Best wishes for a pleasant and restful summer. I look forward with excitement and enthusiasm to the academic year ahead!

Opposite page: The Behnke family celebrates Will’s graduation and continues its proud legacy at Portsmouth: from left, Steve ’78, Greta ’12, Chris ’81, Meghan, John ’76, Will ’15 and Erin. On Prize Day, Will was the recipient of the John M. Hogan Football Trophy, the Baseball Coach’s Trophy and the Headmaster’s Award, and he was elected to the Portsmouth Abbey Athletic Association. Above: Chris addresses the Class of 2015 just before they receive their diplomas; a congratulatory hug at the close of the ceremony.

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Student Achievements Doug Lebo ’15 In a class of many standout members, Doug distinguished himself. An outstanding student and National Merit Finalist, he was elected to the Cum Laude Society at Portsmouth Abbey and received numerous academic distinctions at Prize Day: the American Mathematics Society Award; the Excellence Doug Lebo ’15 in Biology and Chemistry awards; and the Excellence in Scholarship Award for the highest cumulative average in the graduating class over the last two years. Moreover, Doug was a recipient of the Saint Gregory Award for service and the Dom Luke Childs Memorial Medal for his superior citizenship qualities of intelligence, virtue and concern for others. He has twice made the pilgrimage to Lourdes, where he has cared for the infirm, and he was also an altar server during his time here. His activities include: editor-in-chief of Edifice, the School’s scholarly journal; co-founder of the Chemistry Club; member of the New England Math League; and member of Abbey Singers and Schola, the singing group that provides sacred music for church services. Doug was chosen to be among Southeastern New England’s “2015 Best of Class,” the top students from each high school in the region. He will attend McGill University, in Montreal, Canada, in the fall, where he plans to study medicine. Christine Yang ’15 – National Medalist, U.S. Scholastic Art Competition Jee Won (Christine) Yang ‘15, of Seoul, Korea, was named a National Medalist in the 2015 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards competition. She was one of some 2,000 National Medalists throughout the USA chosen for their excellence and promise in the arts and writing. Christine was selected for her oil painting on canvas, “Against Pressure.” She was also awarded a Gold Key for her work in the 2015 R.I. Scholastic Art & Writing Awards in February.

Christine Yang ‘15

“Christine has been an award-winner in each of the past three years of the Scholastic Art Awards,” said Abbey Art Teacher Kevin Calisto. “Her work is enticing, captivating and evokes a powerful message.” The Awards are the most prestigious recognition program for creative teens in the USA and the largest source of scholarships for young artists and writers. Zoe Butler ’16 – Poetry Out Loud State Champion, National Finalist Zoe Butler, of Portsmouth, was the Rhode Island State Winner in the 2015 Poetry Out Loud Contest and represented Rhode Island Zoe Butler ’16 at the National Finals in Washington, D.C., in April. A rising Sixth Former, Zoe was the Portsmouth Abbey school winner and then bested students from 11 other R.I. schools at the State Finals. Zoe competed against contestants from 49 other states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands at the National Finals, where she placed fourth in the semi-final round. Zoe recited “The Good-Morrow,” by John Donne, “Ode to the Midwest,” by Kevin Young, and “Through a Glass Eye,” by Carolyn Kizer, on her way to capturing the state finals. Portsmouth Abbey’s Head of Performing Arts Jay Bragan said, “In both the school and state competitions, Zoe was fearless in her presentations. She lifted the poems off the page by fully inhabiting them physically and vocally.” Now in its tenth year of national competition, Poetry Out Loud was launched

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Below left: John Billings ’17, Meghan McCarthy ’15 Below right: Sophia Diodati ’15

in high schools nationwide in the spring of 2006 and has inspired millions of high school students to discover classic and contemporary poetry. John Billings ’17 – All-State Violinist John Billings ‘17 distinguished himself this past year as an accomplished violinist. The son of Blake Billings ‘77 and Jillian Fenton, John was a member of Salve Regina University’s Newport County Orchestra during the 2014-15 academic year, participating in weekly rehearsals. John played in the orchestra’s Spring Concert as a first violinist, performing pieces by Mozart and Mendelssohn. He performed with the Rhode Island All-State Orchestra at the Veterans Memorial Auditorium in Providence, for his third consecutive year as all-state violinist and his first in the senior division, ranking sixth in the state. Meghan McCarthy ’15 – Izzy Marley Golf Award Abbey Girls’ Varsity Golf Captain Meghan McCarthy ‘15 was awarded the Vittoria Isabelle “Izzy” Marley Award at the 2015 Pippy O’Connor Independent School Girls’ Golf Tournament. The award is given annually in memory of Izzy Marley – who died shortly before the beginning of her senior year at Deerfield Academy – by vote of the coaches from each of the 25 competing schools, to a student who they feel best embodies the characteristics of Izzy Marley: qualities of honesty, compassion and character; dedication to academics, sports, and volunteering; and devotion

to family, school and team. Meghan was a four-year member of the Abbey’s Varsity Golf Team, a classroom leader, and a frequent community service volunteer. A resident of Portsmouth, she will attend Brown University in the fall. Enharmonix – Berklee High School Jazz Festival Distinctions The Enharmonix, Portsmouth Abbey’s vocal jazz ensemble, placed third at the 47th annual Berklee High School Jazz Festival in January. There are only 16 schools allowed to enter each instrumental and vocal category, and for the second time in three years, the Enharmonix were recognized by the Berklee College of Music faculty as one of the top groups at the festival in the Vocal II category. Sophia Diodati ‘15 was also recognized for the second straight year as the Judges’ Choice award winner for her skills as a vocalist and jazz pianist. The Berklee High School Jazz Festival is the largest of its kind in the United States. Enharmonix members included: Caellum Kerr ’16, Bass; Victor Florescu ’15, Bass; Dylan Bedford ’15, Tenor; Tiernan O’Rourke ’15, Tenor; Zoe Butler ’16, Alto; Sophia Diodati ‘15, Alto; Maggie Ingraham ’15, Alto/ Soprano; Carly Johnston ’16, Alto/Soprano; Mary Kennedy ’15, Soprano; Maya Wilson ’17, Soprano; Mike Gibb ’15, Percussion; Mr. Joe Bentley, Double Bass; Mr. Bob Brett, Guitar; Mr. Jeffrey Kerr, Director. Avery Dey ’16 – Student-Led Speakers Bureau Inspired by the formal lecture series that exists for the Abbey School community, Avery Dey developed and coordinated an informal lecture series, called The Speakers’ Bureau, that would help inform her fellow students about courses of study and career choices that might be available to them in college and beyond.

ALUMNI BULLETIN SUMMER 2015

Left: Chris Weiss ‘16 Below: Raimundo Riojas ‘17 and Max Bogan ‘16

Speakers this spring included: nationally known jeweler Tiffany Peay; Nancy Paull, CEO of a non-profit health care and social service agency; scientist John Miller, who was instrumental in the development and execution of the first Lunar Landing, Apollo 11; fashion designer Katherine Wuersch Flener; and Carole Fiola, a Massachusetts State Representative. The lectures took place one evening per week during the Spring Term, and the series will continue through the fall of 2015. Caellum Kerr ’16 – All-Eastern Honors Chorus Caellum was selected to attend the 54th Biennial National Association for Music Education (NAfME) Eastern Division In-Service Conference, held in Providence in April. The weekend of music education and performance provided students and teachers Caellum Kerr ‘16 (left) with his dad, Music Director Jeff Kerr the unique opportunity to engage each other in a collaborative effort. Those selected to perform in the 2015 All-Eastern Honors Ensembles are more than 800 of the most musically talented high school students in the Eastern region of the United States. Caellum, who sang Bass I, worked prior to the event to prepare a collection of challenging music that he then rehearsed and performed with the 350 members of the All-Eastern Honors Mixed Chorus. Selections included “Komm, Susser Tod” by J.S. Bach and “Blow It Up, Start Again” by Jonathan Newman. Chris Weiss ’16 – EIL MVP, Northern NE Champion in Wrestling Fifth Former Chris Weiss, of Rockland, ME, was named the 2015 MVP of the Eastern Independent League (EIL) for wrestling during the 2014-15 school year. Chris, who wrestled at 126 lbs. and was captain of the Abbey Varsity Wrestling Team for two years, was the EIL champion in his weight class in both 2014 and 2015, placed third and

fifth at the New Englands in 2014 and 2015, respectively, and qualified for the prep school nationals in both years. Boys’ Tennis – Undefeated League Champs The Ravens’ Boys’ Varsity Tennis Team finished a stellar season, remaining undefeated in league play and capturing the EIL Championship for the first time. Raimundo Riojas ‘17 was named EIL MVP, the first time such an honor has been accorded a member of the Abbey Boys’ Tennis Team, and all Abbey players were undefeated at their respective positions. Riojas (1st singles), Oliver Ferry ‘17 (2nd singles) and Ryan Gallagher ‘15 (3rd singles) made 1st Team All-EIL in singles, and Stefan Navarro ‘15 and Ben Vergara ‘15 made 1st Team All-EIL in doubles. Max Bogan ’16 – New England Division III Javelin Champion Max Bogan ’16 dominated all regional javelin competition this spring, placing first in the Odell Invitational (a competition that includes 12 schools from both the EIL and the SENE leagues), and winning the Eastern Independent League title. Her throw of 100-7 broke the School record of 98-11, set by Third Former Suzi Willis in 2002. Max went on to compete in the New England Prep School Association Division III Track and Field Championships, and, for the second year in a row, took the javelin title on her final throw of the competition. She broke her own School record to win the meet with a throw of 104-11, becoming the New England Division III Champion.

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Faculty Notes The Amazing Race is a reality television show which sends people to interesting places all around the world. I enjoy watching it to get a glimpse into some fabulous places to add to my “Places to Visit” list. This past year, faculty members traveled to and presented at conferences as well as attended numerous workshops; others continued work on their advanced degrees. My hope is that you will find these pages interesting to read; maybe you will add a few of these places or workshops to your personal list of things to do! – Nancy Brzys, Former Dean of Faculty HONORS, ACHIEVEMENTS AND AWARDS 2014-15

Susan McCarthy and Kathleen (KK) Behan ’08 received the Sidler Awards for Excellence in Teaching at Prize Day, May 23, 2015. These awards honor a fulltime senior faculty member who has exhibited sustained excellence as a teacher at Portsmouth Abbey School and a full-time junior faculty member who displays superior potential as a classroom teacher. Elizabeth Benestad ran her 15th marathon in Boston in April 2015. Lizzie ran her best-ever time of 3:37, which qualified her for the 2016 Boston Marathon.

Kent Rudasill ’86, Ph.D

Kent Rudasill ’86, Ph.D., had three sections of his thesis published in separate journals. Bulletin of the Institute of Combinatorics and its Applications, Vol 73 (2015), published the main piece: “The Liaw Variant - A Versatile Multi-Specialization Whist Construction,” by Norman J. Finizio and W. Kent Rudasill. Congressus Numerantium published the other two pieces last year: Vol 220 contained “Results Related to the Existence of Non ZCPS-BDOWh(p) For Primes of the Form p = 4u + 1,” and Vol 222 had “Balance in Whist and Generalized Whist Designs: Some Classic and Recent Constructions,” both also by Dr. Finizio and W. Kent Rudasill. Kent’s entire thesis is available online at: http:// digitalcommons.uri.edu/oa_diss/243/ John Perreira received his certification as a Doctor of Naturopathy this year. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT 2014-2015

Abbott Caedmon and Susan McCarthy traveled to Lourdes, France, with seven Portsmouth Abbey students (and one alumnus) on the Lourdes Pilgrimage July 1525. Jon Campau ’16, Brandt Matthews ’16, Rory O’Connor ’16, Katrina Nueva ’16, Cassie Schuchert ’16, Sydney Welch ’16, Avery Dey ’16 and recent graduate Douglas Lebo ’15 participated in the pilgrimage this year. Kale Zelden and Aileen Baker attended an Association of Independent Schools of New England (AISNE) workshop entitled, “Eloquent Mirrors: the value of classroom observation and professional feedback.”

Susan McCarthy and Kathleen (KK) Behan ’08 received the Sidler Awards for Excellence in Teaching at Prize Day

Rick Barron graduated from Middlebury’s Bread Loaf School of English this summer at the school’s Oxford campus. He completed his M.A. degree in four summers. This year Rick took the Oxford Tutorial called “Atlantic Crossings: Anglo-American Literary Relations, 1798–1900.” This class enabled Rick to achieve a deeper understanding of American Literature. Rick also undertook an independent research project that explored how Shakespeare makes sense of vengeance in his

ALUMNI BULLETIN SUMMER 2015

Faculty Notes plays as a culmination of political, social, and religious changes that occurred during his lifetime. Kathleen (KK) Behan ’08 completed the second of four summers of graduate school in Spanish Language and Culture at Middlebury College, in Middlebury, VT. Elizabeth Benestad attended the American Classical League’s annual institute in June, held at the University of Connecticut. Additionally, Lizzie became a certified running coach after attending a workshop through the Road Runners Club of America. She can now coach runners in events from 5Ks to marathons. Blake Billings ’77 traveled to Santiago, Chile, in July as a chaperone of the second summer trip to join the Manquehue Movement in its service work. The group of 15 students included Tommy Teravainen ’18, Michael Guyon ’17, Kelila Ross ’18, Karla Norton ’18, Shane McCarthy Jr. ’18, Mark Maley ’17, Marcel Smith ’17, Naythan Delgado ’17, John Billings ’17, Lucia Billings ’18, Conor Smith ’17, Mary Rose Hobbins ’16, Kiahna Almeida ’16, Byungwook David Oh ’17, and Helen Nelson ’15. New faculty member Megan Krakowiak, who will teach CD, joined the trip. The group enjoyed the warm hospitality of the Manquehue Movement, and traveled to rural Chile to build two homes for families in need. Michael Bonin, Ph.D., was a member of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges’ (NEASC) visiting accreditation team for Erskine Academy, South China, ME, in October 2014. His team spent three days at Erskine Academy evaluating its NEASC Self-Study and writing the accreditation report. In December 2014, Michael gave a presentation at The Association of Boarding Schools (TABS) Annual Conference in Washington, D.C. His session topic was “Grace Notes: Putting a Mission Statement into Print and Practice.” Michael also attended an Association of Independent Schools of New England (AISNE) workshop in April entitled “The Challenging and Critical Role of the Department Head,” led by Rodney LaBreque, former head of school at Wilbraham & Monson School.

School nurses Pam Gorman and Willow Hawk ’98 traveled to Philadelphia in June to participate in the National Association of School Nurses (NASN) annual conference. Wallace Gundy, Kathy Heydt and Cindy Ruiz ’10 attended an Association of Independent Schools of New England (AISNE) workshop entitled “Video and Social Media Marketing.” Roberto Guerenabarrena was appointed for the second year to serve as a Question Leader for the College Board’s AP Spanish Language and Culture exam reading. In addition to grading, Roberto exchanged ideas with faculty, teachers, and AP Development Committee members. This experience made him more familiar with AP scoring standards, which help our students in language classes to better prepare. John Huynh took a class at Boston College called “The Moral Virtues,” taught by well-known systematic theologian and Magnificat editor Fr. Romanus Cessario O.P. John has three classes remaining until he completes his M.A.

John Huynh

Susan McCarthy and Kent Rudasill ’86, Ph.D., attended the 31st Annual Anja S. Greer Conference on Mathematics, Science and Technology, held at Phillips Exeter Academy June 21 – 26, 2015. During the week, seven different conferences took place, with over 450 teachers on campus. Susan and Kent both took a course on Problem-Solving and Harkness. Kent took a second course on the Exeter Mathematics Program, and Susan’s second course was in Statistics. Nick ’04 and Allie ’05 Micheletti completed their master’s in liberal arts this summer at St. John’s University, in Annapolis, MD. This year, they studied the Literature segment and read many classical texts, including The Iliad and The Odyssey. Kevin Calisto participated this summer in art worskhops at the Maine College for Art (MECA). This program is de-

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Director of Development & Alumni Affairs Matt Walter

signed to give art educators professional development as well as an opportunity to work on their own artwork and network with other art educators. Kevin attended workshops with MECA’s BFA faculty, shared ideas with other art educators and colleagues, and got to know Portland, ME, as a creative location. While there, Kevin enrolled in a portraiture oil painting course that focused on painting from life and working with new materials in oil painting. He also took a printmaking watercolor class that focused on the techniques of etching and chinecole. Steve Pietraszek ’96 returned to Vanderbilt University to finish the M.Ed. program in Independent School Leadership. Courses included a wide range of topics, including Human Capital Development, Innovations in Educational Technology, and Cognitive Science and the Learning Spectrum. Kate Reardon took four courses through the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association, working towards becoming a Certified Athletic Administrator. Library Director Bobbie Stevens attended the annual Conference of New England Association of Independent School Librarians at Miss Porter’s School in April. This year’s theme was “change:” professional change, personal change and programmatic change. Joney Swift attended a class in Digital Photography at Rhode Island School of Design taught by David Fluerant, a highly regarded photographer, giving Joney the opportunity to become more proficient in this extremely technical process. This summer Joney participated in the Maine College of Art program’s “Feed Your Soul” workshop, in Portland, ME. She took a darkroom B&W printing class in the mornings and wheel throwing in the afternoons. Later in the summer, Joney participated in three art shows: South Coast Artists “Open Studio,” July 18-19, and August 15-16; and ‘The Art Drive,” August 8-9, all at the

Slocum River Studio in South Dartmouth. Matthew Walter attended the 2015 CASE-NAIS conference in January. This year’s conference was held in New Orleans. Dave Wilson went to St. Johnsbury Academy in Vermornt in late July for the Summer AP Institute class in AP Physics. This workshop helped participants develop a rigorous and enjoyable calculus-based course targeting the AP Physics exam. A large part of the time was spent conducting laboratory experiments and in discussion of the logistics and options related to a laboratory program. The English Department held a professional day to work on various topics. They revised the reading lists for classes offered through the department: Introduction to Literature, American Literature, and English Seminar and Thesis. The teachers corrected a sample student paper in order to discuss expectations for student writing in each Form and to compare grading rigor. They also discussed the new SAT and its essay section and what it might mean for the School’s writing assessment. The Mathematics Department attended the annual National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Convention, held in Boston on April 16th. The theme for this year’s conference was “Improving Effective Teaching to Ensure Success for All.” The department members spent their day attending and participating in numerous workshops that were hosted by high school teachers and college professors, all with the goal of improving teaching in the classroom to help students better learn the content being delivered. There were several workshops on integrating technology more effectively in the math classroom, workshops on tips and strategies for more effective preparation for the Advanced Placement exams, plus panel discussion groups on common issues associated with specific courses and how teachers can anticipate problems prior to presenting certain topics in their classrooms.

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Kevin Morrissey: The New Geometry Program at Portsmouth Abbey As part of his professional development plan during the summer of 2014, Mathematics Department Head Kevin Morrissey attended the Anja S. Greer Conference at Phillips Exeter Academy in New Hampshire. The conference, which was math-specific and focused on independent secondary schools, was highly beneficial to Kevin in helping him to implement an innovative program for Portsmouth Abbey School’s geometry students this past year. Now that he, Dr. Rudasill and Mr. McDonough have completed a full academic year employing the program with their students, Kevin is able to reflect on its success and plan for greater implementation in the coming academic year. The program is unique in that its method teaches students to reason in problem-centered, rather than topic-centered, mathematical challenges. Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of the course for students has been the absence of a textbook. The problems provided to students come in a small pamphlet and are composed entirely of words. There are no equations to memorize, no diagrams or definitions, and no chapters to reference. Although this is initially jarring to students, the format is clearly designed to meet the goals of the course, “to help students become people who can work

independently and to become people who can solve problems,” according to Kevin. “I think this program is more applicable to what we are trying to do with our students – create people who can think on their feet.” He encourages students to take notes in class and to keep an organized notebook. As they go through the school year, students add new formulas to their “orange sheets,” and they learn to reference their sheets often in order to apply the appropriate calculations to the individual problems, which tend to build upon each other as the student progresses. Outside of class, students work on the problems and are encouraged to show their thought processes in their work. For evaluation by the teacher, process – which can reveal a student’s basic understanding of the problem – is as important as the answer. In class, students bring their calculations and discuss their work in a seminar-like, or Harkness-style, circle that facilitates conversation. They show their work, share methods and ideas, and offer support to each other. “Students work with a partner to solve these problems,” explains Kevin, “so this encourages collaboration.” They may also visit teachers during conference period or study hall to review questions.

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“The students learn to ask themselves the Tests are also a departure for the students. With only four or five problems on the entire test, students must show all of their work; it is important to demonstrate the entire problem-solving process, according to Kevin, so the students are given “a lot of space” to do so.

question, ‘What is this asking me to do?’ and then break it down. The students have to be resourceful.”

Headmaster Dan McDonough, who was “one hundred percent supportive” when first approached by Kevin, describes the origins of the program at the Abbey: “I gave approval to the Mathematics Department to try this program with geometry because I agreed with them, as a math teacher myself, that the format seemed to lend itself to greater participation by all students in a class while also addressing in a better way the idea of mathematics as inquiry, exploration, and problem-solving.” Kevin, now in his fourth year as Mathematics Department head at Portsmouth Abbey, is confident that students are finding great benefit in this learning method. “It’s important to build a strong foundation,” he says. For this reason, the emphasis is on developing sound problem-solving habits: the first step, make a diagram; then label the diagram. Then reason it out. “The students learn to ask themselves the question, ‘What is this asking me to do?’ and then break it down. The students have to be resourceful.” Kevin reports that students have come back to him with positive comments like, “I feel better as a problem solver” and “I am more willing to tackle a tough problem now.” Rising Fourth Form student Sydell Bonin recalls, “At first glance, the new geometry course appeared to be impossible to learn. Without examples or chapter outlines, it was difficult to get a feel for the problems. However, as the course continued, I found that the word problems and seminar style of the class forced me to discover answers myself without relying on a textbook, and actually learn each concept well enough to use it at any point throughout the problems without going back to an example. This class style and workbook ended up benefitting me far more than I expected.”

Kevin first introduced the concept of the innovative program to his department in January of 2014. This past summer, an additional two Abbey mathematics teachers (2015 Sidler Teaching Award recipient Susan McCarthy and Dr. Kent Rudasill) attended the program in preparation for expansion to other courses in the department.

The program is a good fit for Portsmouth Abbey’s faculty, in Kevin’s opinion. “You need the right people to teach this course. Because new teachers train in a more traditional way, experienced teachers are necessary to be able to integrate this course into the curriculum.” The fruits of the program, Kevin says, will help students as they plan the transition to college-level courses in addition to gaining lifelong skills. “Math is a tool that we can use to solve problems. It’s a language skill.” “So much of math has historically been a question of memorizing,” explains Kevin. “With this new approach, we are retraining the students’ brains, not just for mathematics, but as a better way to approach critical thinking and analysis in general. This will benefit our students far beyond the mathematics classroom.”

A member of our faculty since 2006, Kevin came to the Abbey having taught at Seoul International School in Korea from 2002-2006, New Hampton School 1999-2002 and a public school in Vermont from 1994-1998. He has taught at all levels and will teach AP Calculus BC this year in addition to Geometry. Outside of the classroom, Kevin coaches girls’ junior varsity soccer and is the head houseparent in St. Aelred’s House. Prior to beginning his teaching career, Kevin was an active-duty officer in the Army for over six years and has remained in the Reserves since departing active duty in 1994. He was deployed to Afghanistan in 2010. Kevin and his wife, Chun, have two sons, Sean ’11 and Kyle ’15.

ALUMNI BULLETIN SUMMER 2015

THE ORDINATION OF REV. DOM GREGORY HAVILL, O.S.B.

Rev. Dom Gregory Havill, O.S.B., was ordained on Ascension Thursday at a Mass of Priestly Ordination in the Church of Saint Gregory the Great, on the campus of Portsmouth Abbey School. The Most Reverend Robert C. Evans, Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese of Providence, celebrated the ordination. Also in attendance for the ordination was retired Auxiliary Bishop Walter Edyvean of the Archdiocese of Boston. Originally from Wisconsin, Father Gregory joined the monastery in 2001 and was clothed in the monastic habit in 2002. During a visit to Lourdes five years ago, he felt deeply called to the priesthood. Shortly thereafter, he began his study for the priesthood, taking online graduate courses in theology from Holy Apostles Seminary in Cromwell, CT. Father Gregory serves as the chaplain at Portsmouth Abbey School and teaches a Christian Doctrine course in Sacred Art.

Most Reverend Robert C. Evans

“After the ordination, people often spoke to me of the dramatic moment in the ceremony during which I lay prostrate on the floor as the choir chanted the Litany of the Saints,” said Fr. Gregory. “Deeply affected, many asked for an explanation.

“It is a striking gesture and it expresses an equally striking attitude. It is a posture of awe and wonder in the presence of the Holy, of complete self-giving and total surrender to a Reality and to a call that transcends one’s ability to stand and reason. “The call of a priest, in the words of the Preface to the Chrism Mass of Holy Thursday, is ‘to be conformed to the image of Christ himself and to offer a constant witness of faith and love.’ The purpose of all this is to offer to all a personal encounter with Christ. “Since my ordination, a phrase keeps repeating itself in my mind. It is a short thought from a sermon of Abbot Caedmon that puts it all perfectly in a few words: ‘We are here because of Jesus.’ ” Above, from left, Right Rev. Dom Caedmon Holmes, O.S.B., Abbot and Chancellor of Portsmouth Abbey, Rev. Dom Gregory Havill, O.S.B., and retired Auxiliary Bishop Walter Edyvean of the Archdiocese of Boston, celebrated the ordination.

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Like a Shepherd He Will Tend His Flock: UNDERSTANDING THE FRANCIS PAPACY

Portsmouth Institute 2015 by Christopher Fisher, Executive Director

Additional speakers included Ross Douthat, the youngest-ever columnist for The New York Times, who presented a sharp critical analysis of the Pope and the factions forming within the Catholic Church in the lead-up to the October 2015 Synod of Bishops on the family; Anna Bonta Moreland, a fellow Argentinian (the native country of Pope Francis) and Catholic theologian, who contributed to the conference a deep understanding of how Argentine culture, politics, and theology motivates Pope Francis; and John Carr, the director of Georgetown University’s Initiative on Catholic Thought and Public Policy, who previewed the Pope’s visit to America and explained what his message of mercy, charity, and love will mean for all Americans.

More than two years into his papacy, Pope Francis continues to draw headlines for his provocative statements and populist appeal. This past June, guests from across America convened at the Abbey to discuss the Francis Papacy as part of the 2015 Summer Conference of the Portsmouth Institute for Faith and Culture, an apostolic educational foundation sponsored by Portsmouth Abbey and Saint Louis Abbey. The conference, titled “Like a Shepherd He Will Tend His Flock: Understanding the Francis Papacy,” facilitated a three-day discussion about the Pope’s intellectual and cultural heritage, his priorities as Pontiff, his theological convictions – and his frequent habit of grabbing headlines for his off-thecuff remarks. Over 200 attendees from across the country gathered at Portsmouth Abbey to hear from some of America’s most influential leaders and commentators both inside and outside of the Church. Central to the purpose of the conference was to contribute to American public discourse a greater understanding of Pope Francis in preparation for his visit to America later this fall, when he will speak at the United Nations, celebrate Mass in Philadelphia and address a joint session of Congress–an historic moment both for the Church and for America. By all accounts, the weekend was a spectacular success. After joining conference guests and the Portsmouth Abbey monastic community at Vespers on Friday evening, Archbishop of Boston Cardinal Seán Patrick O’Malley, dubbed by National Journal the Pope’s “BFF” (best friend forever), delivered an intimate and at times moving keynote address to a packed Stillman Dining Hall. O’Malley is one of eight Cardinals in the Pope’s Cabinet of close advisers and is the only from North America, giving him unparalleled access to the inner-workings of the Francis Papacy. O’Malley himself was considered a leading contender for pope in the same papal conclave that elected Francis.

Additional speakers included R. R. Reno (First Things), Fr. Roger Landry (Permanent Observer Mission of the Holy See to the United Nations), “millennial” Catholic and author Christopher White, Fr. Dwight Longenecker, and more. The 24-hour news cycle rarely allows a measured, in-depth conversation about Pope Francis and his teachings. Instead, we get soundbites and Twitter wars. The Summer Conference helped us take a step back and learn about the Francis Papacy from the people who know it best. The Portsmouth Institute’s 2016 Summer Conference will be held on the weekend of June 10, 2016. Get the latest on news and events from the Portsmouth Institute at www.portsmouthinstitute.org.

d Christopher Fisher has been the executive director of the Portsmouth Institute for Faith and Culture since August 2014. He was previously a program director for the Intercollegiate Studies Institute, where he also served as associate editor for the Intercollegiate Review. Chris received his B.A., summa cum laude, in politics from Salve Regina University in Newport, Rhode Island. He is a member of Pi Sigma Alpha, the National Political Science Honor Society, and Sigma Phi Sigma, the National Mercy Honor Society. In addition to serving as executive director of the Portsmouth Institute, Chris also teaches Humanities at Portsmouth Abbey.

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To be honest, when I signed up for the Appalachia Service Project I was a little nervous because I had no idea what to expect. I didn’t know much about the Appalachian region or how to do construction work, so I was eager to learn more. During our time in Jonesville, I had the opportunity to get to know my classmates better, as well as meet many new people. Annie, the woman my group assisted, was one of the sweetest people I have ever met and I am so glad that I had the opportunity to get to know her (and her eight adorable dogs). Her gratitude for our help was so immense and heartfelt that it made the work feel easy. The whole trip was full of new experiences and opportunities to learn new things. Before this trip I didn’t know how to use many power tools, let alone how to build Annie a new porch, so when we finished our project at the end of the week I couldn’t help feeling proud of our work and my fellow group members. We had survived the onslaught of rain throughout the week, finished on time despite being one of the smallest groups, and even used applied math skills while assembling the stairs! The week was truly unforgettable, and the trip exceeded any expectations I could have had.

I would recommend being part of the trip to anyone, and I cannot wait to go again. I think that in this world, we take a lot for granted – and that can make us forget about people in our own country living in poverty, which is why organizations like ASP are necessary. It is a beautiful thing to be able to positively change someone’s life. I am so thankful for the opportunity to have been a part of such an amazing project. – Sara Bertuccio ’16, first-time ASP volunteer 16

APPALACHIA SERVICE PROJECT 2015 Dr. Gene Renz ‘62 has served as an enthusiastic chaperone on two Appalachia Service Project trips, driving his team some 1,000 miles each way, to Chavies, KY, in 2014 and Jonesville, VA, in 2015, and working alongside current Abbey students, faculty and parents for one week each year to help repair and restore the homes of those in need. Following the conclusion of this year’s trip, Dr. Renz, a resident of Westerly, RI, attended an All-School Assembly where he addressed the entire community to share his thoughts about the importance of the work done by Portsmouth Abbey students each spring in Appalachia.

I don’t know about the rest of my fellow chaperones, but the clay finally came out of my clothes after many washings. I do know that it will never come out of my heart or my soul. Thank you to each of my colleagues for your advice and counsel, your warmth and friendship. A special “thank you” to my team co-leader, Maura Fairbanks P’15, for the camaraderie and for coping with my lead foot during our long drives over the past two years. Drizzle falling, I tried, almost in desperation, to level, amid the muddy quagmire, the concrete blocks that were to serve as the landing for the stairs our team was building. Out of the blue, one of the students on our team, Robin Xue ’16, asked, “Doctor Renz, how old are you?” Had my son answered for me, he would have said, “Old as dirt!” How appropriate is that? I replied, “Seventy, in a few weeks.” I could see him thinking, “Wow, that’s old!”

Olivia Wright ‘15

My generation of men was taught not to cry. Our parents, after all, survived the Great Depression and the Second World War. Men were not allowed to display emotion. Not ever. On both of my trips to Appalachia with Abbey students, to Chavies, Kentucky, and Jonesville, Virginia, all of us cried. These tears came from the love, the unselfishness, and the intense commitment of the Abbey students as well as from witnessing our hosts’ gratitude. On the 2014 trip to Chavies, four now-Sixth Formers developed from, “We do not have a clue how to build a long handicap ramp” to “We cannot leave until we finish. It’s our project. Ralph (the homeowner) is counting on us to complete it. He cannot climb a single stair because of black lung disease. He has not left his home for more than six months!” As we finished that ramp, I cried tears of joy, for Ralph and for the students, who refused to give up until the project was finished. This year, instead of cold and snow, we had unrelenting rain and drizzle for four of the five days on our Appalachia Service Project trip. My team’s work site had mud three to four inches deep. Maggie Stark ’15 fell first. We all soon followed her example. Laughter rang out as we fell or slipped, landing on our butts or our faces. My team, “Pocahontas,” (the ASP staff assigns a name to each team in order to protect the confidentiality of the families we help) finished our stairs and platform early on Friday, our last work day. Mrs. Fairbanks, Maggie O’Donnell ’15, Maggie Stark, Ellie Deutermann ’16, Bailey Archibald-Raposa ‘15, and my sawing buddy, Robin, volunteered to help team “Fox and Hounds” wrap up their project of rebuilding a porch that was in imminent danger of collapse. Sounds glamorous, doesn’t it? We arrived to the cacophony of five chained dogs, unhappily barking at the new strangers, and coal dust permeating the air while the steady drizzle continued. Sara Bertuccio ’16, Maddie Fairbanks ’15, Natalie Mistikawy ’15 and Thomas Knoepffler ’16 assisted their team’s co-leaders, Mr. Peter and Mrs. Kathy Stark P’13, ’15, as the porch stairs were completed. Then our team sent them to have lunch while we began affixing the tin apron needed around the base of the newly built porch. Only problem was, in their haste to get to the work site that morning, the other team had forgotten their lunch! To quiet the dogs, especially one nasty fellow, the owner threw a firecracker to make him stop. Did we jump! But the dogs stopped! In our conferences each evening among the chaperones and the ASP construction coordinator, Ms. Andrea Raposa P’15 and Mr. Mike Devine P ’02 – also known as Andy and Mike – would quietly listen to our team’s tales of wetness and mud. Their work project that week was inside, where they were rebuilding a rotten living room floor and its supports. Tim Tsung ’15, Tristan Howlett ’15, Mary Rose Hobbins ’16 and Curry Fisher ’15 assisted

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I learned about the ASP trip during my freshman year activities fair. I signed up to help fundraise, even though freshmen are unable to go on the trip; I wanted to be a part of the process. I couldn’t help but feel it was something important, something I needed to be a part of. This initial enthusiasm, however, didn’t make the trip any less daunting when I was able to go the next year. I had little experience in construction and I worried about how useful I would be doing manual labor. I found myself quite surprised. From never having used a circular saw, to digging an entire drainage ditch in the span of a few days, it was amazing to know that I was capable of doing the labor and was never sitting around feeling useless. It was really empowering. I have also grown close with every family I’ve worked with – something I did not expect. To this day, I keep in touch with the woman I worked for during my first trip, and made sure to visit her this past spring. I often find it difficult to put in to words how much she has done for me. The amazing thing about the trip is that it is so multifaceted. A large part is helping the quality of life for a community, but it is also growing within one’s own community of classmates and friends, and obtaining a sense of empathy for others. Many say how shocking it is to see people in such a different way of life, that it gives them perspective. I believe that’s true, but it’s also amazing to see the similarities in values and attitudes. They do live differently, but the families I have worked with have been some of the nicest and most cheerful people I have ever met, and they have truly had an impact on me. I have found that we aren’t just helping ASP and the families we work with; they’re also helping us, and for that I am utterly grateful. For myself, I learned that I feel particularly drawn to service, so ASP was a great outlet. Even those who aren’t seeking to center their careers on community service can find value in the trip. ASP speaks to people from all walks of life, and provides a different experience for everyone. It was life changing for me. – Olivia Wright ’15, three-time ASP volunteer while at the Abbey

Dylan Bedford ‘15

them. Often they teased our group because we switched our work site from their indoor task to our muddy outside endeavor (our larger team was better suited for the porch project). I swear Mike planted that mud! You see, we two old guys have connections to the Abbey that go back in time. Add our Holy Cross-Providence College bantering and, voila, there were many silly exchanges between Mike and me. Mike is the proud dad of an Abbey graduate – Zack, Class of 2002, who works for the Houston Rockets’ NBA franchise. Mike, like Maura Fairbanks and I, chaperoned the ASP trip in Kentucky last year. I graduated from Portsmouth Priory 53 years ago. Remember, I am old as dirt! As a returning member of the Portsmouth Abbey Appalachia Service Project group, and one who had gone to Jonesville, I expected this year’s trip to be similar to my experience two years ago. In many ways, it was – the same center, the same tools, even some of the same members in the group – But in other ways, it surpassed my expectations. Our group’s site was located between a steep hill and a creek, and our first task was to dig out the mountain of snow which had accumulated on the hill. As the work progressed, I remember being astounded by how quickly and efficiently our team worked, with minimal complaints despite the ice, snow, and ankle-deep mud which had to be cleared for our drainage ditch. When we returned to the center, the groups would discuss their work sites, with one common theme: Although the work was difficult, complex, or just muddy and wet, through teamwork and perseverance, each group achieved a great deal to make their assigned family’s homes warmer, safer, and drier. This productivity was inspired in part by working on a team with fellow classmates, and also out of a desire to make a difference in the Appalachian community – to help the families and individuals we met. When, at the end of the week, we had to say goodbye, that heartfelt “thank-you” made the effort all worth it, along with the knowledge that we had improved someone’s life in a meaningful way.

I have not forgotten Ms. Cat Malkemus ’10 and Mr. Ted Yates P ’13, ’16 and their kids. “Their family” needed better drainage around their mobile home, which flooded often. So Jenny Yates ’16, Olivia Wright ’15, Paulina Power ’16, Dylan Bedford ’15 and Barrett Xiong ’16 first removed the considerable amount of snow surrounding the base of the mobile home, then dug a trench the length of it – in the rain. They shoveled the soil uphill – the house was located in the side of a hill – and then filled the trench with several tons of gravel. The team had to dig the trench and move said gravel 30 yards, from the road to the home, all in five days. Amazing. But my favorite story this year comes from Ted Yates, Olivia Wright and Dylan Bedford. One evening, Olivia asked Ted if he would drive Dylan and her out to see her “2013 family” – the woman whose home their team had repaired two years’ prior. Ted did. Ted told us chaperones in a quiet moment that night of the strong shared emotions he witnessed, amidst many roosters and hens, as Olivia and Dylan were welcomed by that family and of his tears at being present for that emotional exchange. He said he will remember that scene forever. I say to current Portsmouth Abbey students: you should be proud of your classmates. I am. I have been my class correspondent for almost 50 years, and it has been most gratifying to tell my classmates how today’s Abbey students are warm and loving, unselfish and committed to others. Curry Fisher and Olivia Wright have volunteered on this trip for three years. That’s three years of commitment and caring. Others, like Dylan Bedford, Maggie O’Donnell, Bailey Archibald-Raposa, Tim Tsung, Maddie Fairbanks and Natalie Mistikawy, have done so for two years. I thank all of these students, their classmates who joined them this year, those who were with us last year, and all of the other Abbey students who have dedicated themselves to the Appalachia cause for the past 21 years. Well done. You are great ambassadors for your school, and you do the Abbey proud. Thank you. For a slideshow and video about this year’s Appalachia Service Project, visit: www.portsmouthabbey.org/appalachia

– Dylan Bedford ’15, 2015 ASP Student Leader

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Culinary Arts Club at Portsmouth Abbey This past year saw the formation of the Culinary Arts Club, a group of 10-12 students, sponsored by Chris Behnke ’81 and led by teacher Laureen Bonin through a three-season wonderland of gourmet experiences, “feeding the body along with the mind and the soul.” Laureen summarized the goal of the club as “students learning to appreciate good food and all that goes into its preparation. They practiced professional cooking techniques with the help of our dining hall staff. They took field trips to meet local purveyors – the region’s apple growers, specialty butchers, and fish farmers.” The gatherings included meetings with award-winning chefs, visits to food festivals, or on-campus guest lectures with demonstrations. “Students experienced the communal and transformative power of satisfying food, and they learned that grace isn’t just a table prayer, but can be found in every aspect of growing, cooking, serving, and sharing food with others,” said Laureen. “Special thanks go to Chef Stephanie Duquette, whose time and expertise in the Stillman Dining Hall provided the students with real hands-on experience and was instrumental in making the program viable, and to Kevin Calisto, Abbey art teacher and baker extraordinaire, who acted as chauffeur for offcampus adventures and was invaluable to the club’s success.” The following are some of the gatherings our students enjoyed and their reflections on those experiences.

An Autumn Visit to Sweet Berry Farm Sweet Berry Farm in Middletown, RI, is a certified Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) farm that uses integrated pest management to keep insects and diseases to a minimum; the majority of their crops are pesticide free. Sweet Berry grows many fruits such as apples, pears, strawberries and raspberries.

At the farm I was able to pick apples from the tree and make apple crisp myself. We then compared the apple crisp to one made with canned apples. The real apples tasted much fresher and less sweet. We also learned the concept ‘farm to table.’ My experience at the farm changed the way I look at apples.

– Sam Choi ’16

Chefs Collaborative BBQ Chefs Collaborative assembled some of Rhode Island’s favorite chefs for a pond-side Harvest BBQ in early October at Schartner Farms in Exeter, RI. The annual event promotes awareness of local and sustainable ingredients available in the Ocean State.

I have never seen such simply made food that tasted so good. The BBQ in Exeter blew away all expectations I had for a school trip. Although the weather was chilly, the warm tomato cheddar jalapeno soup with the grilled ham and Gruyere sandwich from the Beehive Cafe in Bristol, RI, was my personal cure-all.

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– Schuyler Jordan ’15

Federal Hill Tour with Cindy Salvato

There’s no better way to learn than be given a crate of onions (oh yes, crying ensued, which necessitated trips to the freezer to soothe stinging eyes) and told to chop away. The students became pretty adept, and the dining hall staff appreciated their efforts; they were even kind enough to give students credit for any meal in which their well-cut vegetables were used.

Foley Fish: Fresh, All Natural, and Sustainable

In December, the students travelled up to Atwells Avenue in Providence to learn about Italian foods from Ms. Cindy Salvato, a former Johnson and Wales culinary professor and regular tour guide. They met at DePasquale Plaza, where Ms. Salvato gave a history lesson on the Federal Hill area, then guided students to Antonelli Poultry, the only fresh poultry (as in REALLY fresh) purveyor in Rhode Island and in business since 1853.

Our trip to Federal Hill was a fun and delicious adventure. We wandered through a wonderland of Italian cuisine and learned a lot along the way. From the nastiest parts of poultry production to the nicest bits of bread baking, every stop was educational, showing a new side to common American foods. The lessons we learned about olive oil in particular will add some clean, healthy flavor to the cooking I do in the future. – Rosie Randolph ’16

Cooking Classes with Chef Stephanie Duquette: Pasta Making and Knife Skills After the visit to Federal Hill, where a tour guide took the students to all places Italian, it made sense for Portsmouth Abbey’s own Chef Steph to lead a course in pasta-making in the School dining hall. Pouring flour onto the counter, creating a well for raw eggs, and then using their hands to form balls of dough, students created cheese-filled ravioli, and they happily ate the results. Federal Hill isn’t the only place to get great pasta! In addition, students helped with food preparation for the week; Chef Steph put a chef ’s knife in each student’s hand, instructing them in chopping, dicing, slicing, mincing, and julienne.

Laura Foley Ramsden and her son, Charlie ’13, from Foley Fish Company, gave a terrific presentation on all aspects of fish. Accompanied by a PowerPoint presentation, students learned how to tell the difference between fresh fish and not-so-fresh fish, where their fish comes from, and what fishermen and companies are doing to keep from depleting our ocean of the many species. A very enlightening part of the presentation was the discussion of how many careers there are within the realm of buying and selling fish.

The Clean Food Coach Ms. Jeannette Bessinger, mother of Jesse Bessinger ’12, “discovered the power of clean food – food that is intact, fresh, seasonal and grown in natural ways” when she needed to take better care of her health. “Eating clean” made a great difference in making her strong, fit and energetic.

I had been refusing to eat carrots since kindergarten. But, to my surprise, I found everything Mrs. Bessinger made delicious. Different raw vegetables gave the coconut soup a fresh and sweet taste, making me forget that a large proportion of this soup was CARROT. The vegetables in all the dishes tasted much better than eating them separately; Mrs. Bessinger made 1+1 > 2. And the best impact of this lecture was that I might start to eat carrots again.

– Christine Gu ’16

A Cheese-Tasting with Maria Chiancola from Le Petit Gourmet Le Petit Gourmet is a purveyor of artisan cheeses and gourmet foods, located in Newport, RI. Shop owner Maria Chiancola visited the Culinary Club group on campus in April for a bit of cheese education and tasting.

I was particularly drawn to the three goat cheeses Maria had us sample. All distinctly varied in creaminess, texture, and taste (the one with truffles was my favorite). The bleu cheese and honey was a new combination that I will be sure to share with my family in the future. I had also never known that the order in which one tastes cheese is very important. The buildup of flavor from the mild brie to the strong bleu cheese substantially made the tasting experience all the more delicious.

– Lucy Ferry ’16

Visiting Celebrity Chef Mai Pham

Great people complement great food better than anything else. Thankfully, such people did accompany me on my first journey into Cuban cuisine. My friends and I could not stop talking about the delicious meal we ate just outside our dorms. My first experience with plantains was one for the record books. I first bit into this microbanana expecting the mushy distinct taste of a banana, but the sweet and almost caramel taste of the plantain enveloped my tongue with comfort and satisfaction. After more food than an average sixteenyear-old boy should consume, I consumed more shockingly delicious ice creams and sorbets.

– David Ingraham ’17

Celebrity chef Mai Pham visited Portsmouth Abbey in April and made dinner for the entire School.

Celebrity chef Mai Pham prepared a variety of Vietnamese dishes such as a cucumber and cilantro salad, coconut rice, and chicken. The highlight of her cooking was the coconut rice topped with a shrimp curry, which included a perfect balance between sweet and spicy and it tasted delicious. It was a privilege to meet Chef Mai and eat her wonderful food!

– Grace Gibbons ’17

Guest Chef from Johnson and Wales University’s Culinary Program Chef Sara H. Samuels, from Johnson and Wales University in Providence, RI, visited the Club along with students who might be interested in a culinary career. Informative and engaging, she made spring rolls, beginning with a dipping sauce before cutting vegetables, soaking rice paper, and rolling them up. Our own students had a chance to try their hands at it and sample the treats as well.

It was exciting having a representative come all the way from Johnson and Wales to visit us. She talked about the great benefits of attending their school and gave a cooking demonstration of cold spring rolls, which was a real treat. They were simple, fun and very tasty!’

– Chelsey Ayin ’15

A Cuban Dinner at Mrs. Bonin’s House At our Cuban dinner party Mrs. Bonin prepared her popular black beans and rice (of which pounds had been fed to boarders over the years), showing us the basic foundation of all Cuban cooking – sofrito – and the various spices that she adds to her own black beans. Maduros – fried, ripe plantains – along with a salad of red onion, orange segments and avocado rounded out the meal.

Final Dinner at Persimmon with Chef Champe Speidel The highlight of this first year was spent at Persimmon Restaurant in Bristol, RI. Owner and Chef Champe Speidel provided the students with an unforgettable experience. Upon being seated, beautiful surprises began appearing on the table: deviled quail eggs with caviar; beignets with truffle aioli and celery leaf; and crispy chicken skin on house-made ricotta, sherry pearls and a daylily vinaigrette. Entree tastes included local sea scallops with Carolina rice in a saffron-butter emulsion; and 28-day aged beef with crispy potato and pearl onion and sauce bordelaise. The salad course tasted of spring: warm mixed petite vegetables, pickles, herbs and flowers with vegetable crisps. Dessert was multi-coursed: coconut lime sorbet with a white chocolate powder, yuzu pudding and finger lime; warm vanilla pound cake with fresh strawberries and rhubarb, ginger granita, wild sorrel; dark chocolate semi-freddo with dark, caramelized and white chocolate textures; and a plate of mini treats. Chef Speidel was honored as a three-time semifinalist for a James Beard Foundation Award for Best Chef in the Northeast, and that is no surprise. To learn more about the Portsmouth Abbey Culinary Arts Club, visit our blog at: https://abbeyculinaryarts.wordpress.com/

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P R I Z E DAY AND C OMMENCEMENT

The Class of 2015 Thomas Allen Aker Eduardo Enrique Alfaro Marroquín Chelsey Stephanie Ayin Lucas Miller Bandoni Alexander Nicholas Barlow George Nicholas Bauer Dylan Neville Thomas Bedford William Christopher Behnke Jr. Matthew John Benevides Dean Ronald Bessey Fenton Han Sang-Min Billings Gabrielle Marie Blaine Wade Alexander Bredin Juan M. Brenes Gonzalez Cameron Thomas Buettner Aidan Emerson Cain Brendan John Carlin Patrick James Carlson Bailey Elizabeth Carter Gabriel Steven Carter Alberto A. Castellanos Jin Young Chang Heidi Choi Juan Pablo Chouza González Luca Anthony Christian Robert Charles Cloughen III Ryan Anthony James Conroy Fiona Elizabeth Conway Lauren Tess Cotta Sean Thomas Crandall Vanessa Ariel Cushing Sophia-Rose Diodati Matthew Raymond Dugal Madison Elizabeth Fairbanks John Joseph Falvey III Curry Sullivan Fisher Victor-Emmanuel Florescu Marco Fois Montes Peter Richard Franco

Ryan Patrick Gallagher Michael Peter Gibb Ander Joseph Guerenabarrena Gerrard Peter Valkenberg Hanly Mengqiao (Tina) He Keri T. Heuer Ethan James Hickey Sarah (Sally) Shepley Olga Hoerr Tristan Behan Howlett Xuanqing Huang Margaret-Theresa Kearney Ingraham Grace Helen Jannotta George Ellis Johnson III Schuyler Thomas Jordan Mary Madeline Warren Kelly Mary Carroll Kennedy Elizabeth Irene Kielb Ha Young Kim Hee Jin Kim Taehyung Kim Thomas Kim Caroline Kirscht Douglas Michael Lebo Joo Seung Lee Keon Ho (Hugh) Lee SungJoon (Daniel) Lee Lester Y. Li Xin Michelle Liu Taylor Anne Lough Frank John Loughran Jr. Ashton Mark Lowney Hannah Caprial Lynch Alivia McCall Mairs Maxwell Joseph Marsden Meghan Lorraine McCarthy Kristine Grace McNulty Natalie Mistikawy Alexandra Lucia Peace Morrison Kyle Owen Morrissey

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Stefan Gerard Navarro Helen Catherine Nelson Maggie Kelley O’Donnell Tiernan Francis O’Rourke Joshua Amobi Okoro Kourtney Marie Patton Derek James Poon-Tip Ross MacGregor Powell Bailey Raposa-Archibald Alexandra Patricia Savoie Andrew Thomas Sheerin Danny Wonyong Shin Kevin Silverman Serra Jedrzej Jonasz Jeremiasz Slupski Kai Wilbert Smith Kyusang Soh Margaret Katherine Stark Molly Quinn Sullivan Timothy Tsung Lauren Ann Tuite Benedict Xavier Vergara Courtni Breonna Wade Harrison Hough Wall Jeffrey James Walters Zhirou Rose Wang Winslow William Schilling Wawro Isabella Marie Welch Mary Catherine Whelan Patrick Donald Wilks Nicole Elizabeth Wilner Benjamin Sayles Wilson Olivia Jeanne Wright Yue Wu Yuefeng Wu Christine Jee Won Yang Harrison Zambarano Yanqi Zhang

The largest class of graduates in the School’s history was asked to “go forth to share and to serve” at Portsmouth Abbey’s 85th Commencement Exercises, held Sunday, May 24, on the Holy Lawn. The request was made by this year’s Commencement Speaker, Rev. Joseph G. Healey, MM, ’56, who joined Abbot Caedmon Holmes, Chairman of the Board of Regents Mr. Christopher Behnke ’81, P ’12, ‘15 and Headmaster Mr. Daniel McDonough in conferring diplomas on the 115 graduating Sixth Formers before an overflow crowd of families, friends, and members of the school and monastic communities. Mr. McDonough began the ceremony by welcoming the Class of 2015 – representing 17 states, the District of Columbia, and eight countries – to “your final mandatory assembly here at Portsmouth Abbey School.” He expressed his appreciation to the class for “living up to our mission” by helping to protect all members of the community and strengthen it. “You have already shown the maturity and wisdom of people much older than yourselves. To see the largest class in Abbey history work as a community instead of simply as little groups consumed with self-interest has been a beautiful thing.”

Above: the Class of 2015 Right: Maggie Ingraham ‘15 was elected by her classmates to deliver one of the Commencement addresses. Below: Headmaster Dan McDonough presents the William Griffin Kelley Memorial trophy to Dylan Bedford ‘15 on Prize Day. Dylan was also the recipient of the Music Prize and the St. Gregory Award.

He referred to the quotation chosen by the Sixth Formers that will grace the Class of 2015 stone in the Healey Plaza: “I wish there was a way to know you were in the good old days before you’ve actually left them.” “You have my deep gratitude as you move on from here to create more good old days,” he said. “The ones that you have created here will help you continue to grow in knowledge and grace for the rest of your lives.” He ended with a recommendation to the class: “Talk to God in your own words every day. He listens.”

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Left: 2015 Cum Laude Society inductees, from left, Kyusang Soh ’15, Dylan Bedford ’15, Kevin Silverman ’15, Meghan McCarthy ’15, Yuefeng Wu ’15, Douglas Lebo ’15 and Jee Won Yang ’15 Below: Gerrard Hanly ‘15 was elected by his classmates to deliver one of the Commencement addresses.

Mr. Behnke urged the graduates to “…stay connected. Stay connected to this place, stay connected to your families, and stay connected to your God.” He also shared that, owing to the sacrifice and support of the families gathered at Commencement, “I am pleased to say that today these graduates leave a thriving school.” Finally, he reminded the young men and women to depart Portsmouth Abbey “…with a sense of gratitude, mindful of the knowledge and grace that have been bestowed upon you at this wonderful institution.”

The Cotta Family, from left, front row, Olga Fehn, Corrine Cotta’12, Steve Cotta’83, Lauren Cotta’15, Liz Fehn-Cotta, Arlete Cotta; Middle row, Mike Fehn, Jessica Fehn, Diane Valerioti-Fehn, John Paul Fehn, Hank Cotta; Back row, Ken Fehn, Kyle Fehn, Diane Hoesch-Fehn, Matthew Carbone, Jackie Carbone, Glenn Carbone, Angela Carbone

“Father Joe” Healey, whose cousin, Mary Catherine Whelan, was among the graduates, had spent the previous three days meeting with members of the graduating class, individually and in small groups, to exchange and discuss their thoughts, hopes and dreams about their futures and the world that awaits them. Those conversations formed the basis of his Commencement remarks. Father Joe, who has served as a Maryknoll missionary priest in Africa for 47 years, is also an author and university professor who makes his home in Nairobi, Kenya. His reflections addressed his own fervent hopes and wishes, which included world peace, advocating for the people of Africa, and an evening of good food and conversation with Jesus Christ, Saint Therese of Lisieux, the Little Flower, and the coach of the Notre Dame football team.

The Conway family, from left, Sean Conway, Elizabeth Kinnane, graduate Fiona ’15 and her brother, Emmett ’12

Father Joe had asked the Sixth Formers with which three people they would most want to share a meal and conversation. “A good number of you chose your grandparents and other relatives. You spoke deeply of family values and the importance of reliving your family history and close relationships,” he recounted. Students also selected writers, artists, activists, entrepreneurs and religious figures. The graduates also discussed their hopes for the future, including personal goals of happiness, a good family life, solid friendships, travel and financial security. They felt making the world a better place should include openness to different religions and viewpoints; equal opportunity; care of the earth; stronger community values; and increased concern for others and collaboration among people.

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The Kennedy family gathered in celebration of Mary’s graduation, from left, uncle David Culhan, uncle John Morris, aunt Maureen Morris, Liz Diedrickson, Luke Dolce, Max Dolce, Sarah Kennedy Dolce, Beckman Dolce, Isabelle Dolce, Catherine ’08, James, Mary ’15, Carroll, Matt ’07, Peter Kennedy ’64 and Rosemary Sinnott Below: The Sullivan family, from left, Chris’79, Judi, Chris (Sully)’14, Rowan, and new graduate Molly’15

Father Joe then quoted Pope Francis, whom the Sixth Formers had agreed inspires them: “Abandon the complacent attitude that says, ‘We have always done it this way’… be bold and creative in this task of rethinking the goals, structures, style and methods of evangelization in your respective communities… stir things up, shake up the comfort, self-satisfaction and clericalism of a church closed upon itself.” In closing, Father Joe asked of the class, “May you share your own gifts and talents, the unique charism of Portsmouth, and the wider Benedictine charism of our sisters and brothers around the world.” Gerrard Hanly and Margaret-Theresa (“Maggie”) Ingraham, who were elected by their classmates to be the Class of 2015 Speakers, discussed taking their time at the Abbey for granted and fearing that their recollections of seminal moments, such as Commencement, would fade with time. Their remarks, both humorous and poignant, delighted their fellow graduates and the crowd. Maggie, who said she was making her comments “less dreary” by adding the word “ladies” to the end of somber thoughts, said, “Writing this speech was tremendously hard for me. I realized it’s because I don’t want to say goodbye, ladies.” “I want another year of just Senior Spring. These last few months…I finally slowed down enough to understand how incredible this place really is. It took me way too long to realize how good I had it.” Unlike a number of her friends, who are looking forward to attending large, more impersonal universities, Maggie said she will relish being a member of a small college community. “I love knowing everyone. I love being able to feel like I am with family at a place that is supposed to be my home for four years. To me, each and every one of you is like family.” She concluded by cautioning the underclassmen, “Start appreciating what you have now, because time goes fast here. The best times speed by, and before you know it, you’re driving up Cory’s Lane, looking over boxes…. out the back window, wishing, praying for just another hour with the people you eventually, even reluctantly, call ‘family.’

Yuefeng Wu ’15 enjoys Prize Day with his parents, Dongli Cao and Jianwen. Yuefeng was the recipient of the Classical Studies Book Prize, the excellence in Art History Award, the Rhode Island Secretary of State’s High School Leadership Award, and was elected to the Cum Laude Society.

ALUMNI BULLETIN SUMMER 2015

The Jannotta family gathered in celebration of Grace’s graduation, from left, Jane ’18, Peter, Grace ’15, Meghan, and Joe ’16

“Congratulations, Class of 2015. We did it, ladies.” Gerrard followed Maggie, speaking to the case of nerves he had preceding his speech and of his fear that “…later on, when I try to remember what this moment was like, all I’m going to get is a blur of adrenaline and applause. That’s the problem with moments like these, the moments when your head is most in the game…we’re left with haze in place of the best moments of our lives.” He also admitted to the worry that in the future, he and his fellow students will also largely forget their time at the Abbey, and challenged his friends, “We can’t allow that to happen. Take time to get outside of the moment every once in a while. Not just in the final moments here now, or even the last, solemn get-togethers in the days to come, but in that great big dream we call the future. We should start cementing these memories, because, I don’t know about you guys, but they are pretty much the only ones I’ve got that are worth having.”

The Kirscht family celebrates Caroline’s graduation, from left, Nicolette, Cristina, Caroline’15, Stuart, and Annie’13

Elected to membership in the Cum Laude Society were: Dylan Bedford; Douglas Lebo; Meghan McCarthy; Kevin Silverman; Kyusang Soh; Yuefeng Wu; and Jee Won Yang. The Dom Luke Childs Memorial Medal, given to the Sixth Former who best exemplifies the qualities of good citizenship, was given to Douglas Lebo; and The Headmaster’s Award, recognizing members of the graduating class who, in the Headmaster’s opinion, have been a force for good in the School, was presented to William Behnke, Sophia Diodati, Xuanqing Huang, and Kai Smith. Complete transcripts of all Commencement speeches as well as a full listing of all Prize Day awards can be found on our website at www.portsmouthabbey.org/commencement2015

And, saying he preferred Irish goodbyes, which was “slipping out the back door quietly” and not “a euphemism for the potato famine,” Gerrard offered his “formal goodbye” to his classmates: “Without further ado: Congratulations, Class of 2015. I love you all. Good bye.” In addition to conferring diplomas, the Abbey honored the students who had distinguished themselves, both in and outside the classroom, on Prize Day, Saturday, May 23. Among the awards given, Douglas Lebo received the distinction for Excellence in Scholarship for the highest cumulative academic average in the class during Fifth and Sixth Form years. The William Griffin Kelley Memorial Trophy, for the Sixth Former who made the most significant contribution to the life of the School, as voted on by the faculty, was awarded to Dylan Bedford. The William Barry McCoy Award, awarded by the Monastery to the senior who best represented Christian attitude and leadership, was presented to Meghan McCarthy. Athletic Association Awards were given to William Behnke, Taylor Lough, Maggie Stark and Ben Wilson, who, in the eyes of the varsity coaching staff and the athletics director, exhibited outstanding ability, sportsmanship, effort and leadership in each of the three seasons of athletics.

Sophia Diodati ‘15 receiving the Headmaster’s Award from Dan McDonough. Sophia also recieved the Dr. James M. DeVecchi Head Girl Recognition, the Music Prize, and the Track Coach’s Trophy

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The Savoie family, from left, Heather, Bobby ’10, Bob, Maddie ’11, Alex ’15, Bill Almon, Ann Colby and Natasha Adler.

Douglas Lebo ‘15

The Tsung family celebrates with new graduate Timothy, from left, cousin The Lough family on Prize Day, from left, Hayley, Ellen, Annalise, David, Jessica Yu, cousin Annie Yu, brother Nathaniel, sister Madeleine, cousin and Taylor’15. Taylor was the recipient of the Rhode Island Secretary of Jonathan Yu, Tim’s mom, Rosa Yu, Tim, cousin Pricilla Chen, and dad Steven State’s High School Leadership Award, the Dom Bede Gorman Prize For excellence in Medical Physiology, the Girls’ Field Hockey Trophy and was inducted into the Portsmouth Abbey Athletic Association.

Ryan Gallagher ‘15 enjoys his Commencement day with his parents, Theresa and Pat ‘81.

Amy Huang ’15 and her parents, Li Sui and Jiamin Huang, on Prize Day. Amy was the recipient of the Headmaster’s Award, the Lieutenant Governor’s leadership Award, and the Dorment Family Golf Trophy.

ALUMNI BULLETIN SUMMER 2015

The Franco family, from left, Kevin, Valerie, Gloria Flook, new graduate and Head Boy Peter, Chris and Claude gather for Peter’s celebration.

The Fisher family, from left, Fran, a member of Portsmouth Abbey’s Board of Regents, new graduate Curry, Regan, and Matt, celebrate Curry’s graduation.

The Healey-Whelan clan was on campus to celebrate the graduation of Mary Cate Whelan ‘15, from left, Nivo Whelan, Michael Strong, Christopher Young, Charlotte Hagerty, Katie Strong, Meg Healey, Charles Whelan, Ginny Hagerty, Tom Healey, Lizzie Whelan, Marg Strong, Darrin O’Neill, Sean Whelan, MT O’ Neill, Mary Cate Whelan, Liz Lynch, Megan Hagerty, Tommy Whelan, Father Joe Healey, Maggie Lynch, John Whelan, Ellie Whelan, Suzanne Young, Faith Whelan, Gabriel Whelan, Jon Young, Matt Young, Patricia McFadden, Robert Whelan, William McFadden

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Our Commencement Speaker, Reverend Joseph Healey ’56, M.M. by Zoe Butler ’16 Reverend Joseph Healey ’56, M.M., began Portsmouth Abbey’s 2015 Commencement Address with a wise question: “Why is a 77-year-old missionary priest from Africa giving the Commencement Address to 18-year-old young women and men in the USA?” And yet, Portsmouth Abbey could not have chosen a more relevant commencement speaker. Fr. Joe’s missionary style is predicated on dialogue, and this was reflected in his speech on May 24. He interviewed nearly 40 members of the graduating class of 2015 in the days leading up to the ceremony to learn more about the students’ dreams and aspirations for themselves and the world. His interview method mirrors the Abbey experience in the ways in which the ultimate goal of our intimate community is growth through faith in God, faith in education, and faith in our peers. Even though it had been 59 years since Fr. Joe had graduated from the Abbey in the Class of 1956, he still retained the connection with the School that I find exists with alumni from more recent classes. After leaving the Abbey, he spent his first three years of college at Princeton University before transferring to Maryknoll College. Fr. Joe received a master’s degree in journalism from the University of Missouri just before being commissioned to the Maryknoll’s Africa Region in 1968. He has worked as

“By simply asking broad questions like, ‘What are your hopes for the future of the world?’ Fr. Joe expressed the way that the Abbey implores us to ask questions.”

a missionary for nearly 40 years in Tanzania and Kenya and also earned a master’s degree in 1981 in Christian spirituality. Fr. Joe has even written several books about small Christian communities that contain numerous anecdotes he has gathered from African cultures as a missionary.

And so, with a man so well versed in the language of service, I was nervous to interview Fr. Joe, not wanting to be just another interviewer with the same old questions about his past. I only asked one question from my original list of questions which was, “How does tolerance play a role in your work as a missionary if one of your primary objectives is to spread the Word of God?” When I asked this, I noticed the corners of Fr. Joe’s mouth twist into a smile. He explained that present-day missionary work is a dialogue with people of other religious backgrounds surrounding the idea of Jesus Christ. Thus, tolerance is key in order for that exchange to exist. He explained that this exchange must be evident in every part of our lives, from one’s vocation as a missionary to the creation of a commencement address. Fr. Joe’s dialogue tapped into the journey of inquiry that Portsmouth Abbey so gracefully and uniquely provides every Abbey student. By simply asking broad questions like, “What are your hopes for the future of the world?” Fr. Joe expressed the way that the Abbey implores us to ask questions. These questions touch on the role that Portsmouth Abbey plays in the larger spectrum of our lives and the world such as, “What are my duties as a member of the global community now that I have this Benedictine education?” “How does my experience with the Benedictine tradition affect the way I tolerate other religions and meet new people?” And so, in his Commencement remarks, Fr. Joe brought together ideas from a new generation and those from a 2,000-year-old mission to spread the Word of God in a commencement address that truly represented what it means to be an Abbey alumnus.

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History and Evolution of Portsmouth Abbey School as a Catholic & Benedictine School by Dom Damian Kearney, O.S.B., ‘45 Most people think of Portsmouth Abbey as a Benedictine monastery with a school as its ministry and that it began in 1926 with Dom Hugh Diman as its founder and first Headmaster. But in fact, the monastery was already eight years old at this time, and it was Dom Leonard Sargent, a convert from the Episcopal clergy, who was responsible for the establishment of the first Benedictine house in Rhode Island. His intent was not to start a school, but rather to found a contemplative monastery that could emphasize the specifically Benedictine practice of hospitality as he had experienced it at Downside Abbey in England, where he had been received

into the church in 1909 and to which he eventually returned to become a Benedictine monk with the idea of bringing the English Congregation to the United States. This was to be realized when, in 1918, he was able to purchase the Hall Manor in Portsmouth through the generosity of the owner, Mrs. Gardner Hall. But the one who was chiefly responsible was Matthew Harkins, Bishop of Providence, who provided the cash required for establishing the monastery. Bishop Harkins had been educated at the Benedictine school of Douai, in France, run by monks of the English Congregation, and longed to have a similar Benedictine presence in his diocese. For eight years Dom Leonard’s efforts to promote a contemplative monastery were unsuccessful, and in 1926 the

Above: Aerial view of the Church of St. Gregory the Great and the Holy Lawn surrounded by Pietro Belluschi’s post-modern buildings Left: A. D. Smith house, later Mrs. Gardner Hall’s home, the School’s first building, which became known as Manor House

Downside Abbey monastery, near Bath, England, where Dom Leonard Sargent became a monk

sponsorship of what was then Portsmouth Priory by Downside was transferred to Fort Augustus, an Abbey in Scotland, which was willing to give the support and manpower that were necessary for survival. But Father Leonard’s vision, which was outlined in 1916 in his Prospectus for the Establishment of a Benedictine Priory in the United States, has always remained true of Portsmouth: “The Benedictine life has been synonymous with a reverent worship, with scholarship, with certain forms of missionary endeavours; but that which preeminently expresses its temper is the word so intimately associated with the Order, PAX.” First, and most importantly, Dom Leonard founded a monastery that Saint Benedict would have recognized as fulfilling his ideal: a place in which prayer was paramount in the celebration of the Divine Office. The name he selected for his monastery was Saint Gregory the Great, a tribute to Downside’s role in founding Portsmouth. The chief work was to offer

a house of hospitality, so important a feature of the Rule, in which the reception of a guest is likened to receiving Christ himself. Among the guests during this period were two men who conceived the idea of starting a Benedictine monastery in Washington, D.C., one which would foster the intellectual life rather than make a school their primary work. These men were Dom Hugh Diman and Dom Thomas Verner Moore. In 1924, a second Benedictine house was founded in Washington, with both these monks eventually becoming superiors of their respective monasteries. In assuming responsibility for Portsmouth, Fort Augustus realized the value of a school as a means of support as well as a response to fill the need for providing a boarding school Catholic education. In Father Hugh Diman, a convert from Protestantism and the founder of an outstanding Episcopal school, St. George’s in Newport, RI, there was an ideal headmaster for beginning another school and doing

Tee monastic community at Portsmouth Priory circa 1946

Fort Augustus monastery in Scotland

for Catholics what he had done so well for Protestants. The founding of a Catholic boarding school was not only the fulfillment of the vision of Bishop Harkins (1887 -1921), but it was also part of the expanding role of Catholic education in the diocesan planning of his successor, Bishop William Hickey (1921-33). As Portsmouthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s community grew in numbers during the 1930s and 1940s, the monks were also able to contribute in many ways to diocesan life, in supplying priests for Sunday masses and retreats for laity and the clergy. Part of the mission of the English Benedictine Congregation is to serve on parishes, assisting the diocesan priests, and for many years Portsmouth was able to provide this help on a regular basis to churches and convent schools in the area. Normally, the occupation of a monk has been connected with the school, in a teaching or administrative role. Laity, however, increasingly have filled the positions once felt to be essential to the running of a Catholic boarding school, as a result of age and the decline in vocations.

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Nevertheless, Portsmouth Abbey has promoted several initiatives that greatly benefit the State of Rhode Island through the acquisition of large tracts of land adjacent to the original property, which provide much-needed open space as well as afford the protection and privacy desirable for the kind of monastery envisioned by the founder, Dom Leonard. An important site now included in the Portsmouth property is the field on which the Battle of Rhode Island was fought in 1778, now leased to the Carnegie Abbey Club. In 1978, the bicentenary of this important battle was re-enacted on these grounds. Like other independent schools, Portsmouth Abbey has obeyed the times, enrolling day students, becoming coeducational and multi-cultural, a school that welcomes students from all faiths, races and nations. Portsmouth is no longer an insulated, restricted world of its own kind, comprising a very small segment of society. One of the ways in which Portsmouth has taken the lead in Rhode Island is in its promotion of energy-saving devices and solar innovations, the most

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Portsmouth has taken the lead in Rhode Island in its promotion of energy-saving devices and solar innovations, in particular, the wind turbine and solar house

spectacular of which have been the construction of the first commercial-grade wind turbine in the State for which a generous subsidy was granted by the government, and the acceptance of a solar house, designed and built by the Rhode Island School of Design and the Brown School of Engineering. Finally, Portsmouth has made significant contributions in the field of architecture through its long association with the noted architect, Pietro Belluschi, who had been dean of the School of Architecture at Massachusetts institute of Technology (M.I.T.). For 30 years, he planned the extensive upper campus with its outstanding array of buildings, which took their shape and character from the dominating abbey church. For the last two decades, Portsmouth has been increasingly concerned with the importance of responsible stewardship and environmental issues, incorporating the latest energy conservation technologies into its three most recent buildings.

d Left: Maginnis and Walsh architectural rendering for the original Portsmouth Priory plan. Due to the Great Depression, only St. Benet’s house was actually built.

Where are you now? Where are you going? How will you get there? The monks of Portsmouth Abbey have found answers to these questions in the Rule of St. Benedict. Could this be the answer for you? We invite you to experience a week of prayer, work, rest, and recreation in our Monastic Life Experience Program for single, college educated, Catholic men who wish to consider a call to monastic life. The program is “open-ended” to suit you – you may spend a few days or a week or more at the abbey, experiencing the life of the monk – Ora et Labora – including daily mass, common prayer, lectio divina, manual labor, and conferences on monastic history or spirituality, with opportunity for exercise and rest on our 525 acres on Narragansett Bay. The Monastic Life Experience Program is an opportunity to familiarize yourself with monastic life and consider the possibility that This Call May Be For You. For more information, or to request a visit, please call 401-643-1213 or visit our website: www.portsmouthabbeymonastery.org

ALUMNI BULLETIN SUMMER 2015

NEWS FROM THE OFFICE OF COLLEGE COUNSELING by

F ormer Director

College Counseling M ary McD onald

What does a college counselor do? Glad you asked. We do a lot, but not always what people might think we do. We don’t tell students which schools to apply to. We don’t complete their applications for them, and we don’t write their essays for them. We don’t send standardized test scores to colleges. We do work with students and parents to give them the tools to work their way through a process gone rather berserk. And we work with our colleagues on the college side to be sure that they have a good understanding of who the student is and a good understanding of what sort of academic institution and community the Abbey is. In order to present students in their best light, we meet with them (and meet with them, and meet with them…), listen to what they have to say, listen to what friends say about them, study their academic profiles (grades, program rigor, test scores), read all of their term-end comments from teachers, coaches, and advisors; we ask questions, ask that they complete several surveys designed to give us (and maybe more importantly, them) insight into what their academic strengths are, what their values are, and how they see the world, and we listen to what their parents have to say. Oh yes– and then we have more meetings. Finally, we pull everything together in the carefully crafted, insightful, comprehensive, often colorful word picture known as the “rec” letter. And once applications are submitted, we make every effort to speak with our representatives at colleges to which students have applied, ensuring that they are “reading” each of our students correctly. And how do we “present” the Abbey to colleges? At the risk of modifying an absolute, I would say that the Abbey is rather unique. And I would further say that this uniqueness is important to communicate to colleges. So how do we go about it? We have a number of different avenues to follow, and we take advantage of all of them. Between 130 and 140 representatives from colleges from all over the USA and around the world visit our campus yearly. A member of our office staff speaks to each one, shares relevant updates in our programs, and makes note of any chang-

es from the college side. If the rep is new to the Abbey, a counselor will spend 30 to 45 minutes explaining the Abbey’s classics-based curriculum and co- and extra-curricular programs. Care is taken to highlight the strong sense of community that is at the core of the Abbey experience. All reps are offered a campus tour, and, time allowing, reps are offered a meal in the Stillman Dining Hall, an excellent opportunity to watch Abbey students interact. The Abbey college counselors visit colleges throughout the academic year and over the summer, learning about each institution, forming relationships with admission officers, and offering insight into the students and programs at the Abbey. Abbey counselors are involved in a number of membership organizations, most of which include both counselors and admission officers in their membership, again exchanging information and insight in less formal settings. Each year the Abbey College Counseling Office prepares and publishes two documents that are handed out to all visiting reps and sent as part of the supporting material that goes with each college application. The first publication is the Profile, which includes information about all aspects of the Abbey’s academic programs. This document covers the history of the School and statistical information such as number of faculty and students, geographic makeup of the student body, information on standardized testing, a list of all AP courses offered, a description of our class offerings, graduation requirements, class sizes, Fifth Form course grade distribution and other pertinent data. And there is more; the “softer” information that provides the context for everything else academic is laid out under such headings as “What Do You Get When You Enroll An Abbey Student?” and “What Does That Mean In Terms Of A Student’s Preparation For College And Life?” Particular attention is paid to our Humanities program, with its college-level readings as well as its seminar format and focus on writing. The second document is Abbey-at-a-Glance. We hear repeatedly from college reps that they most value “pursuit of academic interests outside of the classroom,” and deep in-

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volvement in activities both in and out of the Abbey. Abbeyat-a-Glance is intended to give colleges greater insight into the full lives of Abbey students by highlighting the numerous leadership, service and enrichment opportunities available. The co- and extra-curricular programs are grouped under the headings “Academic,” “Community Service,” “Visual and Performing Arts,” “Athletics” and “Publications,” with a brief description of each.The document also describes leadership opportunities including, but by no means limited to, Head Boy and Girl, Honor Committee and Discipline Committee, house prefects, student government, International Student Leaders, Red Key leaders, team captains, and club presidents. Enrichment opportunities, several of which are unique to the Abbey (the Haney Fellowship, the Ali Sacco Internship and the Lourdes Pilgrimage), are also explained. I would be negligent if I didn’t mention one more tool in our arsenal: our Abbey students. Over and over and over we

hear from college reps that our kids are wonderful. Whether it is a large venue such as a college fair, a smaller venue such as a school visit or Abbey program, or a one-on-one meeting or interview, reps tell us that our students are polite, they ask very good questions, and they speak knowledgably about their college search and application process. Alumni who interview Abbey students for their respective colleges likewise heap praise on our students, describing them as mature, articulate, easy to talk with, and, again, knowledgeable. What does a college counselor do? Glad you asked. We partner with students, families, and colleges to ensure that our students apply wisely and that colleges know everything they need to know to make wise decisions. At the end of the 2014-15 academic year, Mary McDonald retired from her position at Portsmouth Abbey School. Corie McDermott-Fazzino has been named Director of College Counseling.

DESTINATIONS The Portsmouth Abbey School Class of 2015 will be matriculating at the following colleges and universities: American University 2 Bard College Bates College Boston College 3 Brandeis Brescia University College Brown University Bryant University University of California, Berkeley Carleton College Carnegie Mellon University 2 The Catholic University of America 2 Champlain College Concordia University - Montreal Connecticut College Cornell University 4 University of Delaware University of Delaware Denison University DePaul University Dickinson College Drexel University 2 University of Edinburgh Elmira College Elon University Emerson College

Emory University Fairfield University Fordham University Framingham State University Franklin and Marshall College Furman University The George Washington University 6 Georgetown University 2 Georgia Institute of Technology Gettysburg College 2 Grand Valley State University Hampden-Sydney College Hobart and William Smith Colleges 3 College of the Holy Cross College of the Holy Cross 3 University of Kentucky Lafayette College Loyola University Maryland Lynn University McGill University 2 Merrimack College Montana State University, Bozeman Mount Holyoke College Mount Ida College New York University 2 Northwestern University 4

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Ohio Wesleyan University University of Pennsylvania Providence College 4 Purdue University University of Redlands University of Rhode Island 2 Rhodes College Rollins College Sacred Heart University Saint Joseph’s University Saint Michael’s College Santa Clara University Sewanee: The University of the South 2 Skidmore College University of Southern California St. Edward’s University 2 St. Lawrence University Stanford University Syracuse University Union College University of Vermont 2 Wake Forest University Williams College York University

Message from Director of Development & Alumni Affairs Matthew Walter For the second consecutive year, the Annual Fund has set a new record, this time surpassing the $1.5 million mark for the first time in School history. The Annual Fund continues to stand as the first and most important gift a donor can make as it provides critical, renewable funding that directly supports the School’s operating budget. To all those who gave to the 2014-2015 Annual Fund, we say “Thank you!” Annual giving is just one of several important ways in which Abbey benefactors can support the School. Capital gifts in the form of major, endowed and planned gifts also present the opportunity for donors to make gifts that can be transformational for the Abbey community. These strategic gifts present the opportunity to look to the School’s future and secure the funding required to nurture programs, sustain people, and steward the campus over the long-term. Typically larger than gifts to the Annual Fund, major gifts are often one- or two-year commitments in support of a specific project, program or initiative that would not typically be a part of the annual operating budget. These items are often identified through the strategic planning process or the annual budgeting process undertaken by the business office and various school departments. Most recently, the installation of St. Hilda’s Field, our multi-sport synthetic turf field, stands as an example of a major gifts initiative.

Planned gifts are yet another type of capital gift that can benefit the Abbey. Typically made through an individual’s retirement and estate planning process, planned gifts are some of the most tax-effective gifts a donor can make. A planned gift presents an attractive option for donors who are not able to make a major or endowed gift out of income or savings, but who wish to share their resources for the long-term benefit of the School. Whether through a charitable gift annuity, charitable remainder trust, qualified retirement account, closely held securities or other assets, a planned gift can often be the largest gift a donor makes to the School. Capital gifts over the years have enabled the School to: v Increase enrollment and the boarding-to-day student mix to nearly 75%/25% through the building of St. Brigid’s and St. Martin’s Houses v

Attract and retain the best faculty, staff and administrators to the School through the acquisition and renovation of additional faculty housing and the establishment of four endowed faculty chairs

v Complete special projects and initiatives that are not part of the annual operating budget, like St. Hilda’s Field v Remind us all of the central importance of our faith and shared worship in our lives through the renovation of the church and its iconic Lippold sculpture v Accept the most qualified applicants, regardless of their families’ financial means, through endowed scholarship funds v Offer the most comprehensive, multi-disciplinary learning environment possible through endowed professional development funds

Endowed gifts are another category of capital gifts one can make to the School. An endowed gift provides an initial corpus of funds that is invested for the long-term benefit of the school. At the end of each fiscal year, a percentage of the value of the fund is distributed for the fund’s intended purpose. Endowed funds have been established at the Abbey for a variety of reasons, ranging from scholarships to faculty chairs, to permanent professional development funds and more. An example of an endowed gift can be found in the Alumni Merit Scholarship highlighted on the opposite page.

While we can take pride in our recent annual and capital giving accomplishments and the tangible difference they make in every aspect of a Portsmouth education, more needs to be done in the years ahead to ensure that Portsmouth Abbey retains its position as one of New England’s leading boarding schools and as the country’s premier co-educational Catholic boarding school. My hope is that, as you continue to include the School in your annual charitable giving plans, you will also consider making a transformational capital gift to the Abbey during your lifetime and through your estate. For more information about annual or capital giving, please contact me at your convenience at mwalter@portsmouthabbey.org or 401-643-1291. With warm regards,

Matthew P. Walter

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Alumni Merit Scholarship Program Portsmouth Abbey School benefits from a number of endowed scholarship funds, one of which is the Alumni Merit Scholarship. Established anonymously in 2012 by an alumnus of the School, the Alumni Merit Scholarship seeks to help provide the opportunity of a Portsmouth Abbey education to a deserving student and is awarded on the basis of both merit and financial need. The scholarship is renewable each year of the student’s career at the Abbey, subject to certain criteria: 1) the donor asks that the family of the recipient invest with them by providing 10 percent of the annual tuition fee while the scholarship pays 90 percent, 2) the recipient must remain in solid academic standing, ideally maintaining a minimum cumulative 3.5 GPA, and 3) the recipient and the recipient’s family pledge to pay it forward through support of the School’s Annual Fund as their current and future resources allow.

joyed AP English Literature, writing his Senior Thesis on an analysis of metafiction and the question of reality in Miguel de Cervantes’ Don Quixote.

To date, there have been two recipients of the Alumni Merit Scholarship, the most recent of whom is Dylan Bedford ’15.

It was no surprise that, among numerous other academic and service distinctions and honors he was given on Prize Day, Dylan was selected by vote of the Faculty to receive the William Griffin Kelly Memorial Trophy, given to the student who has made the most significant contribution to the life of the School and who possesses the qualities of humaneness, humility and humor.

Dylan also took full advantage of Portsmouth Abbey’s many co- and extra-curricular activities, excelling in athletics, performing arts and community service. He captained this past year’s cross-country team, running a personal best 5K of 19:56; played a lead role in the School’s highly successful winter drama production of Ghost: The Musical; and was a member of Enharmonix, the Abbey’s jazz ensemble that was a top finisher in its division in the national 2015 Berklee High School Jazz Festival. He was also a student leader and twoyear participant in the School’s Appalachia Service Project, and he plans to remain active in community service when he matriculates at Stanford University in the fall.

“As I leave Portsmouth Abbey, I am more grateful than ever for the generosity that has supported me throughout my journey as a Raven,” Dylan said recently. “My Abbey career has challenged me to reach new heights and achieve what I had only dreamed of. These opportunities have only been possible through the continued support and generosity of Abbey alumni. My time here – my experiences, education, friends, coaches, teachers and those I’ve gotten to know at the Abbey – will stay with me far beyond graduation. Thank you!”

A stellar all-around member of our School community, Dylan fully embraced all aspects of life at Portsmouth Abbey. In the classroom, he distinguished himself as a true scholar, maintaining a 4.0 GPA amid a rigorous curriculum that this past year alone included AP English Literature, AP Chemistry, Irish History Seminar Honors, AP Calculus AB, AP Latin 4, and Schola, the choral ensemble that meets as a class and provides music for all church services. He particularly en-

Alumni support Portsmouth in a variety of ways and have created numerous opportunities for current students over many generations. Portsmouth Abbey will continue to count on future generations of alumni to grow this tradition, keeping Portsmouth Abbey accessible to as many talented students as possible. In establishing the Alumni Merit Scholarship, one alumnus has gone above and beyond average support of Portsmouth Abbey to ensure that a Portsmouth education remains available to deserving students who are willing to share in his investment in the School. For more information about how you can invest in future Abbey students through the Alumni Merit Scholarship or any of the school’s endowed funds, major gift initiatives or estate planning opportunities, please contact Matt Walter, director of development, at mwalter@portsmouthabbey.org or 401643-1291.

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J A M E S T A S C A ’11 James Tasca is settling in to his new job this summer in the “Mile-High City,” where he will work in sales for NetSuite, a Denver-based, Cloud management software company and take advantage of the plethora of outdoor pursuits that can be found in his new home. While he is leaving family and the East Coast behind, however, his long-held passion for helping others has traveled west with him. James, who received a degree in business administration from High Point University (HPU) in May, was in the Selling Club at HPU and was one of six HPU students who qualified to participate in an international collegiate sales competition. He did well there and was offered a job with NetSuite as a result. But his time at HPU – specifically, six months spent abroad – also reawakened in him an interest in philanthropic endeavors. From an early age James knew what it was to assist others in need. His cousin, Alex Scott, was the indefatigable young girl of Alex’s Lemonade Stand fame. Diagnosed shortly be-

fore her first birthday in 1997 with neuroblastoma, a type of childhood cancer, Alex began a crusade at the age of four to raise funds and awareness for childhood cancers, and her idea – raising money through lemonade stands – and enthusiasm were contagious. By the time cancer claimed her life in 2004 at the age of just eight, Alex’s efforts had raised an astonishing $1 million. The Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) was started by her parents in 2005 to continue the work that Alex had started. Since then, more than $100 million in total has been raised for pediatric cancer research and treatments. Due to Alex’s sickness, James never had the chance to travel to Pennsylvania to meet her in person. “From what I understand,” said James, “she did not travel much from her home so that she could be close to her doctors. However, I have clear memories of holding lemonade stands in Garden City (a large Rhode Island shopping center) for years with my other Rhode Island cousins on national Alex’s Lemonade Days.

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ALUMNI PROFILE

“I don’t think any of us were very surprised by Alex’s drive to help others and her doctors raise money to help fund research for neuroblastoma,” he added. “For us it was extremely inspiring, and we all just wanted to help her raise as much as possible and enjoyed helping our family. I grew up supporting this cause, and contributing to its success has always been important to me.” It was during a semester abroad in Australia during his junior year at HPU that his sense of charity revisited James. While there, he had begun running with a friend and decided to compete in the Taniwha Marathon, in Tokoroa, New Zealand, which he successfully completed. Once home, he started training in earnest. James and fellow Abbey alum Fergus O’Farrell ‘12 began preparations for the New Orleans marathon in January 2015 by participating in a Half Iron Man competition – a 1.2-mile swim, a 56-mile bike ride, and a 13.1-mile run – in October 2014 in Austin, TX. “Fergus and I had long days of training together,” James explained. “We both loved getting into shape, but after a while we both got a bit bored and hit a road block in our training. During one of our runs along Ocean Drive, in Newport, we started discussing how people raise money for charities through sports events in which they participate. And when I mentioned my earlier involvement in Alex’s lemonade stands, we both agreed it would be a great cause.” That’s when James’ fundraising efforts took off. Back at school, he went before the High Point Student Government Association (SGA), where he gave an impassioned speech and asked the student government to support his work on behalf of ALSF. The SGA responded by contributing $7,000 to James’ fundraising, an unusually large donation for such an event. James also worked with Alpha Phi Omega (APO), the local HPU chapter of the national community service-driven organization, to create a long-lasting relationship with the Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation. James hopes that the High Point APO chapter will adopt ALSF as its national philanthropic cause, thereby becoming one of the primary benefactors of APO’s year-round activities, so that the fraternity will support ALSF long after he has graduated.

James raised more than $11,000 last fall for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation. Inspired – “I felt there was a lot more I could do” – his running, and fundraising, continued. He learned of the Coalition for Hope International (CHI) from running partner Fergus, who’d spent several months volunteering in Rwanda, working with vulnerable youth. CHI provides orphaned youth with opportunities to pursue their educational and vocational dreams. “The kids at CHI have amazing potential, and any support we can provide has an immediate and positive impact,” said James. Fergus and he raised $4,000 for CHI while participating in the New Orleans marathon. He finished the event but has since experienced knee problems (he also ran a half-marathon in Winston-Salem, NC, in December), so he is currently taking a hiatus from running. He hopes to compete in more running events in the future, but, regardless, he knows his philanthropic efforts will continue, if in another form. “It is really important for me to give back,” he explained. “I love to exercise, but I felt a bit selfish just running for myself. I wanted to do something that helped change lives and really make a difference for others.” He hopes his work and efforts for ALSF and CHI will inspire his peers to get behind a cause that is meaningful to them. “Young people should not be afraid to voice their opinion and communicate with others, if they believe in something,” he stated. His experience in the Selling Club at High Point helped James successfully convey to others the importance of his philanthropic efforts. “Sales, which is the job I have just begun, is all about empathizing with people and caring about what someone else thinks,” he said. “You have to see through the eyes of the other person and then find a way to help them. It’s the same for raising awareness and funds for causes like Alex’s Lemonade Stand and Coalition for Hope. You have to put yourself in their shoes. Then, it’s easy to see just how much your support can help.”

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– Kathy Giblin Stark P ’13,’15

ADMISSION REPORT NEW STUDENTS ENROLLED*

III Form 29 boarding boys, 26 boarding girls 11 day boys, 14 day girls Upper Forms 14 boarding boys, 11 boarding girls 1 day boy, 1 day girl Boarding 80

“ M A K E YO U R M A R K ” AT T H E A B B E Y

Day 27

* As of July 22, 2015

The total number of states represented is 24, and the District of Columbia and U.S. Virgin Islands.

Peru and Mali were added to the list of represented countries, bringing the total to 20.

Six new students enrolled had a father, uncle, aunt or grandfather attend Portsmouth Abbey School.

Twenty-four of the new student body have a sibling who attends or attended Portsmouth.

This year our financial aid funds made a Portsmouth Abbey education possible for 126 students, providing them with $ 4.05 million.

The admitted student revisit program had the largest attendance in recent years, with eighty-eight (88) students returning to campus to experience what it was like to be an Abbey Raven. The theme “Make your Mark” was celebrated by our Abbey students in their talks to the students and parents, culminating with a video on how our students are contributing to the School and how the School is supporting them in making their mark. This year sixty-one (61) of the eighty-eight (88) students who attended the revisit program have enrolled. This number breaks the record for the number and percentage of attendees who have decided to enroll, an increase in 10 students and a 19 percent increase over last year. Once again, the return visit to campus is a major factor in the student’s final decision; we are thrilled to have seen such a strong yield and are excited to see these students “make their mark” starting this fall.

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Steve Pietraszek ’96 with his wife, Beth, and their son, Ben

U P CO M I N G E V E N T S

Check out the admission page of the website and social media sites to see: where we will be traveling; upcoming on-campus events, including our two Fall Open Houses; and news from the Office of Admission. Stay connected by following us on:

Portsmouth Abbey is pleased to announce the appointment of our new Director of Admission, Steve Pietraszek ’96. Steve graduated from the Abbey in 1996 and received a bachelor’s degree, cum laude, in history from Colby College in 2000. Soon after graduation, he began his career in independent schools at The Webb School in Tennessee as a member of the Admissions Office, a dorm parent, and lacrosse coach. In 2004, Steve returned home to Rhode Island and to the Abbey to work in the Office of Admission and serve as the director of financial aid. While at the Abbey, Steve has taught various courses in the History Department, coached lacrosse, and been a houseparent in St. Martin’s House. In August, Steve completed his M.Ed. in Independent School Leadership at Vanderbilt University. “I am honored to be named the director of admission,” said Steve. “In my 11 years at the Abbey, we have seen tremendous growth in a number of ways. We are a vibrant academic community, and my connection to the classroom, the playing fields, and our students keeps me focused on the mission of the School. I am excited to bring new students to campus, to see the impact they will have on the School and the ways our community will, in turn, shape their high school experience.”

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ANDREW FONTS ’17

MAGGIE STARK ’15

Winter 2014-15 Athletics Awards Boys’ Basketball Dom Bede Gorman Memorial Basketball Award: Andrew Fonts ‘17 MIP: Ethan O’Neill ‘16 Captains-Elect: Teddy Fenton ‘16, Andrew Fonts ‘17, Seamus O’Connor ‘16 Record: Overall 10-11 EIL 9-7 Girls’ Basketball The Pfeffer Cup: Ayanna Sommers ‘16 MIP: Maya Eid ‘18 Captains-Elect: Ayanna Sommers ‘16, Jocelyn Varieur ‘16 Record: Overall 6-13 EIL 5-9 Boys’ Ice Hockey The Andrew M. Hunt and Carol Meehan Hunt Boys and Girls Hockey Award: Bob Cloughen ‘16 MIP: John Stookey ‘18 Captains-Elect: Jack Murphy ‘16, Ben Quick ‘16, Bailey Strangis ‘17 Record: 4-15-1 Holt: 1-6-1 Holt Conference Sportsmanship Award Girls’ Ice Hockey The Andrew M. Hunt and Carol Meehan Hunt Boys and Girls Hockey Award: Sally Hoerr ‘15 MIP: Maddie Fairbanks ‘15 Captains-Elect: Kaitlyn Doherty ‘17; Ass’t. Captains-Elect: Remy Chester ‘16, Maddy McCann ‘16 Record: Overall: 12-3-1 EIL 10-1 Boys’ Squash Carlos Xavier Araujo ‘96 Memorial Squash Award: Ander Guerenabarrena ‘15 MIP: Oliver Ferry ‘17 Captain-Elect: Sam Choi ‘16 Record: 8-5 New England Class C Championship – 3rd Place

Girls’ Squash Coach’s Award: Claire Davidson ‘16 MIP: Grace Fink ‘17 Captain-Elect: Claire Davidson ‘16 Record: Overall 9-3 EIL 4-2 Swimming Coach’s Award (Boys): Jeremy Slupski ‘15 MIP: Michael Ludwig ‘16 Captain-Elect (Boys): Chris Chow ‘16 Boys’ Overall Record: 3-3 Coach’s Award (Girls): Annie O’Donnell ‘17 MIP: Megan Madden ‘18 Captains-Elect (Girls): Ellie Deutermann ‘16, Holly Kazama ‘16 Girls’ Overall Record: 3-5 EIL Championship: Boys, 2nd Place; Girls, 4th Place Wrestling Coach’s Award: Chris Weiss ‘16 MIP: Eli Wilson ‘16 Captains-Elect: Chris Weiss ‘16, Eli Wilson ‘16 EIL Champions: Chris Weiss (132 lbs.), Eli Wilson (160 lbs.) EIL MVP: Chris Weiss Record: Overall 5-12 EIL 2-8 Junior Varsity Awards Boys’ JVA Basketball: Kei Eleje ‘17 Boys’ JVB Basketball: Jay Patel ‘17 Girls’ JV Basketball: Mary Beth Falvey ‘18 Girls’ JV Squash: Gretchen Vietor ‘18 Boys’ JV Squash: Kevin Jiang ‘17 Coed JVB Squash (Boys): Steve Vye ‘16 Coed JVB Squash (Girls): Felicity Taylor ‘18 Boys’ JV Ice Hockey: Matt McKenna ‘18 Girls’ JV Ice Hockey: Emma Stowe ‘18 Boys’ JV Swimming: Thomas Knoepffler ‘16 Girls’ JV Swimming: Katrina Nueva ‘16

Photos by Louis Walker (www.louiswalkerphotography.com/Sports) and Bill Rakip (www.billrakipphoto.com/)

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ANDER GUERENABARRENA ’15

SALLY HOERR ’15

Winter 2014-15 All-League and Post-Season Honors Boys’ Basketball (EIL) Andrew Fonts – All-League Seamus O’Connor – All-League Ethan O’Neill – Honorable Mention Jeff Walters – Honorable Mention Girls’ Basketball (EIL) Ayanna Sommers – All-League Girls’ Ice Hockey (EIL) Sally Hoerr – All-League Maddy McCann – All-League Abby Luth – All-League Remy Chester – Honorable Mention Jena Villeneuve – Honorable Mention

BAILEY ARCHIBALD-RAPOSA ’15

Boys’ Ice Hockey (Conference) Shayne Simpson – All-League Holt Conference Sportsmanship Award Girls’ Squash (EIL) Claire Davidson – All-League, New England Class B Championship, 3rd Place Boys’ Swimming (EIL) Bailey Archibald-Raposa – All-League (100 Back) Jeremy Slupski – All-League (100 Free) Adam Suh – All-League (100 Breast) *EIL Record Tim Tsung – All-League (50 free) Girls’ Swimming (EIL) Kate Hughes – All-League (100 Breast) Kate Hughes – *School Record (100 Breast, 1:17.50) Wrestling (EIL) Chris Weiss – EIL Champion, All-League Eli Wilson – EIL Champion, All-League Chris Weiss – EIL MVP; 5th Place in New England, Qualified for Prep School Nationals

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CLAIRE DAVIDSON ’16

SAILING TEAM AT NATIONALS

AMY HUANG ’15

Spring 2015 Athletics Awards

Softball The Softball Coach’s Trophy: Maggie Stark ’15

Baseball

MIP: Ayanna Sommers ’16

The Baseball Coach’s Trophy: William Behnke ’15

Captains-Elect: Rosie Randolph ’16, Jocelyn Varieur ’16 Overall Record: 12-4 EIL Record: 7-4

MIP: Stephen Vye ’16 Captains-Elect: Dominick Cappadona ’17, Chris Motta ’16,

Boys’ Tennis

Frank Rybicki ’16

The Boys’ Tennis Coach’ s Trophy: Raimundo Riojas ’17

Overall Record: 7-11 EIL Record: 6-4

MIP: Eduardo Alfaro ’15

Girls’ Golf The Dorment Family Golf Trophy: Amy Huang ’15

Captains-Elect: Jerry Lin ’16, Raimundo Riojas ’17 Overall Record: 8-6 EIL Record: 6-0 *EIL Champions

MIP: Amber Liao ’17

Girls’ Tennis

Captains-Elect: Lucy Ferry ’16, Holly Kazama ’16 Overall Record: 6-2

The Girls Tennis Coach’ s Trophy: Hannah Lynch ’15

4th in Pippy O’Connor Independent School Girls’ Tournament

Captains-Elect: Emma Butler ’16, Katie Chen ’16 Overall Record: 2-10 EIL: 1-7

MIP: Katie Chen ’16

Boys’ Lacrosse The Frost Family Trophy: Ben Wilson ’15

Boys’ and Girls’ Track

MIP: John Falvey ‘’15

Track Coach’s Trophy, Boys: Kai Smith ’15

Captains-Elect: Teddy Fenton ’16, Joe Jannotta ’16,

Boys’ MIP: Ryan Madden ’17

Jack Murphy ’16, Seamus O’Connor ’16 Overall Record: 12-5

EIL Record: 7-0

*EIL Champions

Boys’ Captains-Elect: Jon Campau ’16, Brandt Matthews ’16 Boys’ Overall Record: 6-3 EIL Record: 3-1

Girls’ Lacrosse

Track Coach’s Trophy, Girls: Sophia Diodati ’15

The Girls’ Lacrosse Trophy: Kristine McNulty ’15

Girls’ MIP: Amanda Saliba ’17

MIP: Kate Hughes ’18

Captains-Elect: Sara Bertuccio ‘16, Max Bogan ’16, Jennifer Yates ’16 Overall Record: 9-1 EIL Record: 4-1 Junior Varsity Awards

Captains-Elect: Maddie McCann ’16, Maddie Villareal ’16 Overall Record: 9-4

EIL Record: 6-2

Sailing The Robert Price Sailing Trophy: Andrew Sheerin ’15 MIP: Marty Bulanowski ’18 Captains-Elect: Emily Bredin ‘’17, Patrick Rose ’17, Sydney Welch ’16 Overall Record 14-2 Placed 2nd in New England Team Racing (Baker);

Baseball: Alex Sienkiewicz ’18 Boys’ Lacrosse: Bailey Strangis ’17 Girls’ Lacrosse: Callan O’Neill ’17 Sailing: Patrick Rose ’17 Boys’ Tennis: Davis Kline ’17 Girls’ Tennis: Kitty Zhao ’18

Boys’ Track: James Murphy ’16 Qualified for the National Team Racing Championship Girls’ Track: Paulina Power ’16

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Spring 2015 Post-Season Individual Athletics Awards Baseball EIL All-League Will Behnke ’15, Frank Rybicki ’16, Dom Cappadona ’17 Honorable Mention: Tiernan O’Rourke ’15, Harrison Zambarano ’15, Christopher Motta ’15 Girls’ Golf Victoria “Izzy” Marley Award for NE Prep School Girls Golf: Meghan McCarthy ’15 Boys’ Lacrosse EIL All-League Nick Bauer ’15, Bob Cloughen ’15, Teddy Fenton ’16, Ben Wilson ’15 Honorable Mention: Dan Locke ’17, George Sturgis ’16

Abbey vs. St. George’s Football Rivalry Renewed for 2015 The Portsmouth Abbey Varsity Football game vs. St. George’s is back on the schedule for the 2015 season. A collaborative effort between the Evergreen Football League (Portsmouth Abbey) and the Independent School League (St. George’s) has opened the first game date of the season for teams in both leagues. This open date will enable the Abbey and St. George’s the opportunity to renew their rivalry. The game is scheduled for Saturday, September 26, at Portsmouth Abbey during Reunion Weekend.

US Lacrosse Bob Scott Award: Bob Cloughen ’15 US Lacrosse Academic All-American: Ben Wilson ’15 Girls’ Lacrosse EIL All-League Lena Kerno ’17, Liv Mairs ’15, Kristine McNulty ’15, Maddie Villareal ’16 Honorable Mention: Taylor Lough ’15, Mary Cate Whelan ’15 Softball EIL All-League Rosie Randolph ’16, Maggie Stark ’15, Tyler White ’18 Honorable Mention: Lucia Billings ’18, Jocelyn Varieur ’16

The two schools last played in the fall of 2000. The long-standing rivalry ended the following fall when the Independent School League required all of its league members to play an eight-game league schedule, thus eliminating non-league contests and the Abbey vs. St. George’s game. After the Ravens-Dragons contest was eliminated in 2001, the schools continued to scrimmage. Come out and support the Ravens over Reunion Weekend: Portsmouth Abbey vs. St. George’s is back on, Saturday, September 26th!

Boys’ Tennis EIL All-League Raimundo Riojas ’17, 1st Singles Oliver Ferry ’17, 2nd Singles Ryan Gallagher ’15, 3rd Singles

– Al Brown, Director of Athletics

Stephan Navarro ’15 & Ben Vergara ’15, 1st Doubles Girls’ Tennis EIL All-League Hannah Lynch ’15 Boys’ Track EIL All-League Jeremy Slupski ’15 – Pole Vault Kai Smith ’15 – Long Jump Adam Suh ’18, Scott Powell ’17, Kai Smith ’15, Patrick Carlson ’15 – 400 Relay Girls’ Track EIL All-League Sara Bertuccio ’16 – 100 Hurdles Max Bogan ’16 – Javelin Sophia Diodati ’15, Jillian McRoy ’18, Courtni Wade ’15, Keri Heuer ’15 – 1600 Relay Courtni Wade ’15 – Triple Jump Max Bogan ’15 – New England Division III Champion, Javelin BEN WILSON ‘15

ALUMNI BULLETIN SUMMER 2015

MILESTONES BIRTHS Griffin Lang, son of Kiana and Brian O’Reilly ‘95

1992 A boy, Simon, to Theresa and Pat Leger April 3, 2015 1995 A boy, Griffin Lang, to Kiana and Brian O’Reilly March 28, 2015 1997 A girl, Eleanor Marilyn, to Paul and Ashley Griswold January 8, 2015 A boy, Colin, to Renee and Colin O’Higgins May 6, 2015 1999 A girl, Abigail, to Jennifer and Ethan Case March 16, 2015 A boy, Henry Andrew, to Andrew and Francesca Tauber February 12, 2015 A boy, Peter William, to Bonnie and Rhys Stoltenberg August 6, 2014

A girl, Lucia, to Veronica and Chris Hornig April 20, 2015 A boy, Caden Harper, to Beau and Brooke Gilligan Beecy August 20, 2014 2002 A girl, Ainsley Howell, to Reed and Mia Choate January 6, 2015 A boy, Jay Henry, to Sean and Mary Block Herman May 1, 2015 2003 A boy, Elliot Thomas, to Andrew and Maia Crawford May 9, 2015

FACULTY AND STAFF A boy, Frederick Augustine, to Lauren and Chris Fisher May 16, 2015

2000 A girl, Olivia, to Andrea and Matt Waine March 5, 2015 2001 A girl, Chloe Seong-Hae Yoon, to Jenny and Paul Suk-Hyun Yoon January 16, 2015

Eleanor Marilyn and her mom, Ashley Griswold ‘97

Peter William, son of Bonnie and Rhys Stoltenberg ‘99

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MILESTONES

Big sisters big sisters Ceci (3) and Piper 4) welcome Ainsley Howell, daughter of Reed and Mia Choate ‘02

Paul Yoon ‘01 and his wife, Jenny, welcomed their daughter, Chloe Seong-Hae, in January of 2015

Elliot Thomas, son of Andrew and Maia Crawford ‘03

Henry Andrew, son of Andrew and Francesca Tauber ‘99

ALUMNI BULLETIN SUMMER 2015

MILESTONES WEDDINGS 1964 Dr. A. Jerome Philbin to Heather M. Foss May 2, 2015 1966 Claude Rives to Jodi Collette Penn February 20, 2015 1995 Andrew Heide to Erin Maxon May 2, 2015 1997 Matthew Reeber to Rebecca Murphy December 27, 2014 2001 John Heins to Kate McFall June 7, 2014 2006 Abigail DiPalma to Wesley Isom August 2, 2014 FACULTY AND STAFF

Dr. A. Jerome Philbin ‘64 and Heather M. Foss celebrated the sacrament of marriage at St. John the Guardian of Mary Church in Clinton, MA. A reception followed at The International Golf Club in Bolton, MA.

Claude Rives ‘66 married Jodi Collette Penn in New Orleans. They are planning a July honeymoon in France.

Stephanie Petreccia to Douglas Duquette April 24, 2015 Abigail DiPalma ‘06 was married to Wesley Isom in Newport, RI. Abbey alumnae in attendance included bridesmaids Kellie DiPalma Simeone ‘03, Amanda Roderick ‘06 and Lindsay Wilson ‘06.

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Newlyweds Erin and Andrew Heide ‘95 (back) with Abbey friends (from left) Jamie Fessenden’97, holding daughter Ava, Liz Fessenden’97, James Healey’95, Brian O’Reilly’95, Courtney Dignan’95, Bill Gilbane’95, Marliese Palank’95, Brian Cusack’95, Maura Walsh Dyson’95, Nick Corrigan’95, John Machado’95 and John Anselmi’95

Above: The wedding of Matthew Reeber ‘97 to Rebecca Murphy included, from left, kneeling, Bill Sherman’97, Andrew Gontarz ’97, Ryan Grabert ’97; standing, Chris Marcogliese ’97, Kevin Vendituoli ‘99, Matt and Rebecca, Justine Reeber Button ’99, Jillian Hawes ’99, Steve DeVecchi ’97 and Brian Walsh ’97. John Heins ‘01 married Kate McFall in June of 2014.

Right: Portsmouth Abbey’s Executive Chef, Stephanie Petreccia, and husband Douglas Duquette on their wedding day

ALUMNI BULLETIN SUMMER 2015

MILESTONES

NECROLOGY Bernardo Hugh Tovar ’42 Father of Gregory ’67, Peter ’72, Christopher ‘76 and James ‘79 June 27, 2015 Note: An In Memoriam will appear in the next issue of the Bulletin.

J. Lee Johnson IV ‘67 with his mother, Ruth Carter Stevenson, in 2007

Peter P. Gallagher ’47 Brother of John ’53, Joseph V., CSP ’40, and Cornelius P. Gallagher ’45 April 15, 2015 John C. Walsh ’50 Father of Jennifer Walsh Singer ’95 June 2, 2015

Bam La Farge’67

Francis Kernan ’53 February 13, 2015 Peter Sheehan ’57 Brother of Michael Sheehan ’55 May 6, 2015

Alane Sauder MacGuire Mother of Rhoads ’13 and Pierce MacGuire ’10 March 1, 2015

John Ormsbee Wall ’57 April 29, 2015

Nan Tucker McEvoy Mother of Nion McEvoy ’70 March 26, 2015

J. Lee Johnson IV ’67 April 20, 2015 Henry Bancel (Bam) La Farge ’67 February 26, 2015 Joseph A. Bardenheier III Father of Joe Bardenheier IV ’86 February 21, 2015 Beatrice Gralton Grandmother of Maggie ’04, Alexandra ’05, Caroline ’07, Genevieve ’09, and Claire Gralton ’13, and Ceara Bowman ’12 December 8, 2014 Joseph W. Hood, Jr. Grandfather of Margaret Mahan ’06 and Andrew Guerenabarrena ’15 April 10, 2015

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Francis X. Stankard Father of John A. Stankard ’85 April 23, 2015

FORMER FACULTY James Angus McCormick English Teacher (1966-68) September 22, 2014 Fred Lincoln Hewitt Athletics Director (1973-75) May 14, 2015

CLASS NOTES

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From London, Keith Botsford reports surviving into his 88th year, still writing, lately honored by Polish citizenship and newly a great-grandfather to add to his eight surviving children and 16 grandchildren.

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70 TH REUNION v SEPT 25-27 James Meade shares, “At the 2013 Beaux Arts Ball on Thanksgiving weekend in Oklahoma City, I was appointed King of the Ball for the year 2014.” James received this honor in recognition for the many years of service he has given to the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, which included serving as president of the Board of Trustees and as a lifetime trustee.

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In January, Rev. Dom Christopher Davis, O.S.B, was honored by the St. Philomena School in Portsmouth, RI, with the Lifetime of Service Award for his many years as the school chaplain and spiritual advisor. Dr. Timothy Flanigan ‘75, P ‘06, ‘09,‘11,‘19 served as Deacon for the celebratory Mass, which was attended by students, faculty, clergy, parents alumni and many friends. A festive luncheon followed the ceremony. Father Chris also celebrated his 47th anniversary of ordination on Sunday, May 31, 2015.

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Dan Donahoe just visited Portsmouth (on his way to his 60th Harvard Reunion). He had not seen the School since his 50th Class Reunion in October 2001 when 40% (6 of the 17 class members) showed up. “It was quite an experience to see the growth! Class of

2015 with 115 graduates, the largest the School has ever seen. The total enrollment is 370 with 260 boarders – largest ever of each type. New buildings (especially dorms) everywhere, world-class fitness center, 12 playing fields, hockey rink with a 240foot wind turbine powering the school. Wouldn’t Doms Aelred, Andrew, Bede, Leo, David, Hilary, et al. be astonished (and Mr. Kelly observing co-ed classes)?! All the best.”

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Richard Fremantle, who resides in Florence, Italy, continues to build his art collection, FFAST (The Fremantle Collection of Art by Foreigners in Tuscany). His foundation is dedicated to the intelligence and creativity of artists. FFAST’s collection of works by “creative people from many countries, all of whom worked at some point since the beginning of the 20th century, in Tuscany, includes about 300 works on display by over 150 painters, sculptors, potters and artists in other fields.” www. fremantlefoundation.org

St. Philomena School Principal Donna Glavin awards Dom Christopher Davis, O.S.B., ‘48 (far left) the Lifetime of Service Award for his many years as the St. Philomena School chaplain and spiritual advisor. Dr. Timothy Flanigan ‘75, P ‘06, ‘09,‘11,‘19 (second from left) served as Deacon for the celebratory Mass.

56 I

Philip Brady returned to Duxbury, MA, from Naples, FL, for his granddaughter’s graduation from Hingham High School. She is going into nursing at Northeastern this fall and will be spending her first semester in Greece. His elder granddaughter begins her senior year at Massachusetts Art in September... The Honorable William J. Kent has retired from the New York State Supreme Court after spending 31 years with the judiciary.... Jim McConnell is leading a perfectly civil retired life, splitting his time between Vero Beach, FL, and Boulder, CO. In fact, as he wrote this, Jim was sitting on a plane heading west for the summer. He frequently sees David FitzSimons at their club in Vero along

ALUMNI BULLETIN SUMMER 2015

William Pimentel ‘60 is “is still a shepherd and a pool player.”

Father Joe Healey ‘56 at Portsmouth Abbey School’s Commencement 2015 with Bill Melvin ’55 and Gil McManus ’52. Jim said they are all managing to stay on the right side of the grass, which is comforting... Bentley Offutt and his wife, Ann, returned to campus for the recent commencement ceremony. He said, “We viewed Sunday morning Mass from a perch on the front bench in the loft facing the altar. Heavenly rays radiated off of the cross over the altar as the sun filtered in; the elder monks were mystical as they celebrated Pentecostal Sunday, and the coed choir was never better, particularly in ‘Alleluia’.” Classmate and old friend Father Joe Healey delivered a memorable commencement address. Bentley and Ann wish to thank Gerry Kavanagh for arranging a pleasant stay in Newport and expressed regrets that their paths did not cross as planned.

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From left, Rev. Dom Gregory Havill O.S.B., Vincent Buonanno ‘62 and Peter O’Connor in Rome in June 2014.

Regis Dognin just concluded a fascinating year-and-a-half of research to answer a simple question from his niece in Normandy, France (a few miles from Omaha Beach), to his brother in Versailles: When did Papy-jo (his father, Joseph Dognin) land at Omaha Beach and with what general? This seemingly simple and innocent question started a journey of discovery of Regis’ own father’s WWII history. This May, he mailed 28 packages to his siblings and their children in San Francisco, Washington D.C., NYC, Terryville, CT, Boston, London, Rabat (Morocco), Berlin, Moscow, and France. “It’s been exhausting, great, fascinating, elating, extremely long, tremendous work, lots of writing, great learning and very rewarding!” Regis also recalls his strong ties with Portsmouth: “Fr. ‘Barney’ was the reason I was able to be there. Fr. Bede married my sister. Fr. Leo was my idol. Fr. Andrew introduced me to Bowdoin College…need I continue?!”

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John Marlin had a wonderful time at the Vero Beach reception in March, where he was able to reconnect with Jim Mulholland ’79, former John Marlin ‘58 met up with (from left) Jim Mulholland ’79, former Portsmouth Abbey Headmaster Gregory Floyd ’57 and current Headmaster Dan McDonough in Vero Beach. 52

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Portsmouth Abbey Headmaster Gregory Floyd ’57, and our current headmaster Dan McDonough.

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55 TH REUNION v SEPT 25-27

Tip Deegan is slogging away at his second health care book, this one on Obamacare. He plans to call it Down the Rabbit Hole with US Healthcare, due out on Amazon Kindle in the fall... William Pimentel is happy to share that he is alive and well. He is still a shepherd and a pool player. He says, “The Priory changed my life; that is what education can do. I could always read and write better than anyone I have interacted with. I have also become quite good at public speaking, and that is all Priory.”… Jim Robinson’s daughter was the first child to leave the nest to attend college, in Richmond, VA, in January 2015. He is also hoping to see his classmates return for their 55th Reunion in September!

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Vincent Buonanno’s visit to Subiaco, Italy, in June included a serendipitous encounter with Rev. Dom Gregory Havill O.S.B., School Chaplain and Christian Doctrine teacher, Peter O’Connor, head of the Humanities Dept., Michelle O’Connor,

Sam White ‘64 and his wife, Elizabeth, received the Arthur Ross Awards for Excellence dition, presenting the work beautifully and intelligently and revealing the intention of the designer as clearly as possible in two dimensions.”

65 I 50 TH REUNION

SEPT 25-27

Father Jonathan DeFelice was appointed assistant moderator of the Curia and vice chancellor of the Diocese of Providence effective July 1, 2015, for a term of two years.

66 I modern language teacher, and 32 students on the Rome Humanities Trip.... Gene Renz wants to thank the many classmates who supported the recent Abbey trip for the Appalachia Service Project in Jonesville, Virginia. The 18 Abbey students who went were supported by eight chaperones made up of faculty, administration, current parents, and alumni. Projects involved installing a French drain, a porch with steps, a landing, and a living room with new beam support. See Gene’s reflections on page 16, which he shared with the student body at an All-School Assembly in the spring, about his two trips to Appalachia with the School.

63 I

Curtiss Roach decided to check a few items off his bucket list, so he went heli-skiing with his son, Morgan, oldest daughter, Schuyler, and Bryan McShane ’71 in British Columbia. Later in the spring, Curtiss and his wife, Leslie, went to Kenya on safari for a couple weeks and then returned to the States in time for their eighth grandchild to be born, to their middle daughter, Jamie, and her husband, Ian Murray.

64 I Sam White and his wife, Elizabeth, received the 2015 Arthur Ross Awards for Excellence in the Classical Tradition, presented by the Institute of Classical Architecture & Art. According to the ICAA, Sam and Elizabeth put together books on architecture “celebrating the classical tra-

John Bremner shares that he has not been back to New England in 40+ years, and he is not a fan of reunions, but says: “It would be nice to get back together after 50 years – which turns out to be a year from this coming fall – October 2016. It would be great if everyone came back to Portsmouth for this one weekend in our lives.”…It is Jon Gilloon’s sad and regretful duty to report the passing of a wonderful man and father, and Portsmouth alum from the Class of 1967, J. Lee Johnson IV, from liver cancer. Jon and J. Lee had formed a special friendship over the past 20 years in Texas, and J. Lee and his family have been very close to Jon. “I am left so empty by his death. He was a treasure, indeed!” said Jon. Now retired, he has decided to move to Shreveport, LA, where he purchased an Art Deco building and where his talented daughter, Katy, has opened a new art market, the Agora Borealis, so that he, his wife and his daughters can all pursue an artist’s life there. He hopes to visit and see other ’66 classmates, especially newly married Claude Rives, Barbara and Chip Burke, and Charlie Lamar, and looks forward to seeing everyone else at the 50th in the fall of 2016.

Above: Curtiss Roach ‘63 and his wife, Leslie, on Safari in Kenya. Below: Curtiss went heli-skiing with his son, Morgan, his oldest daughter, Schuyler, and Bryan McShane ’71 in British Columbia.

72 I

William Long is delighted to report that he has just retired from the United States Air Force after 30 years (28 in the Air Guard, two in the Air Force). William spent the last

ALUMNI BULLETIN SUMMER 2015

James Harty ‘76 met up with Mike McTeigue and Shea Farrell in NYC in May.

eight years in the guard as the Connecticut State air surgeon, during which Connecticut received the highest medical inspection score in the Air Force. Over the last two years, William has worked on a project that significantly reduced the death rate among combat wounded. “Still in private practice and loving what I do with no plans to retire,” he says.

73 I

Above top, In June, Gust Stringos ‘73 raced to Bermuda again on Bluebird in the Bermuda 1-2, single-handed from Newport, returning double-handed.

Gust Stringos raced to Bermuda again this year in the Bermuda 1-2, single-handed from Newport on June 5, and returning double-handed. Otherwise, Gust shares that life goes on: family medicine practice in Skowhegan, ME; and gardening, beekeeping and running when not sailing. He is enjoying his grandchildren, although they are in Florida. Gust writes, “Good

thoughts to everyone.”

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Jan Schwarzenberg and his wife, Regina, hosted 25 members of the Class of 1974 for dinner in their Middletown home over Reunion Weekend last fall. Jan shared, “It was amazing to discover how many ‘16-year-olds’ can be bald with grey beards!”

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On April 11, 2015, Joseph DiSanto and his wife, Ginny, traveled to the UK to watch their son, Mike, row in the six-seat for Oxford’s Blue Boat in the 161st Boat Race against Cambridge, on the Thames River, in London, where Oxford won by six boat lengths. Mike attends Oxford/Trinity College

Gust also enjoys as much time as possible with his daughter, Vellangi, and grandchildren, Manny and Sammy, who live in Florida.

Joe ‘76, Michael, Virginia, and Katherine DiSanto at the OUBC Dinner celebrating Oxford’s victory in the 161st Boat Race, Hurlingham Club, London England. 54

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Former Abbey Coach and A.D. John McCauley (front) with his wife, Geraldine, and children, Mike ’81, Bill ’79, Kate, Richard ’84, Christine, and Jack ’78.

Brian Finnerty ‘77 and Chris Sullivan ’79 with Abbey history teacher Cliff Hobbins in April.

where he is pursuing a Master of Science Degree in Psychiatry. Joe’s daughter, Katherine, joined them for the trip and festivities. Katherine is living and working in NYC for a PR firm after graduating from Boston College in 2013. Joe and Ginny live in the Back Bay and spend their time in Boston and Rhode Island... James Chris Harty shares that Michael McTeigue and he met in May in mid-town Manhattan to celebrate Shea Farrell’s return from Los Angeles. All classmates and/or friends are invited to join them at the next Semi-Annual Farrell Driveby & Street Food Fair (dates, menu & Shea’s ETA to be determined).

77 I

Brian Finnerty and Chris Sullivan ’79 put together a short mock trial for Abbey history teacher Cliff Hobbins’ two Political Science classes in April. Both Brian and Chris had Mr. Hobbins as a teacher in the 1970s and were inspired by him to become lawyers.

79 I

Bill McCauley served as lead prosecutor in the highly publicized murder trial of former New England Patriot Aaron Hernandez, which resulted in a murder conviction... Alex Mikulich gave the Ninth Annual Thomas Merton Black History Month Lecture on February 25, 2015, at the Thomas Merton Center at Bellarmine University, in Louisville, KY. He also co-authored an historic December 2014 statement by Catholic theologians for racial justice that was signed by over 450 theologians, scholars, and activists.

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Chris Rossi is a screenwriter whose latest film, “Meadowland,” stars Olivia Wilde and Luke Wilson. It premiered at the 2015 Tribeca Film Festival and will be released in theaters later this year. Chris lives with

78 I

Jack McCauley recently celebrated the 56th wedding anniversary of his parents, John and Geraldine, along with brothers Bill ’79, Richard ’84, and Mike ’81 and sisters, Kate and Christine.

his wife, Anna, in Los Angeles... Greg Zancewicz is working as chief technology officer for an early-stage start up engaged in helping doctors and patients find more cost-effective medication options. He writes that, at the age of 50, “I am basically leading the life of a 20-something entrepreneur. Coffee helps.” Greg is currently living in north Texas with his wife, Lourdes, seven-year old son, Adrian, 19-year-old daughter, Melissa, and several unremarkable pets. Greg and Lourdes are about to hit their 25th wedding anniversary. “This year has been the wettest ever recorded in Texas; maybe the Comanches or Caddos remember a wetter one?” Greg mused. The family is enjoying the temporary pond in their yard, with lots of frogs this spring.

84 I

Brian Hetherington and his family moved 15 miles south from San Francisco proper to Hillsborough, CA. Brian’s company, ABD, is up to 175 employees and has been named the “#13 Best Place to Work in the Bay Area” (also 17th fastest-growing private company). Brian’s wife, Jill, is working in business development while keeping an eye on ten-year-old Grant, nine-year-old Blake, and Pierce, who is seven.

Screenwriter Chris Rossi ‘82

ALUMNI BULLETIN SUMMER 2015

85 I

30 TH REUNION v SEPT 25-27

Tom Sollas is getting ready for an active summer, with his three oldest children in junior sailing. He is hoping to make the reunion this year.

86 I Conor Bohan was named an Ashoka Fellow for his work with the Haitian Education and Leadership Program (HELP), the university scholarship program he founded in Haiti.

87 I Paul Baisley ‘87 and Jim Knight ‘87 golfing together in Connecticut

Paul Baisley and Jim Knight golfed together in Connecticut over the summer, trying to figure out which of Jim’s five boys would marry which of Paul’s five girls. Jim dominated the links as usual... Derek Minihane and his brother, Keith ’89, met in London while Derek was on a business trip from Australia. They spent the weekend walking and drinking throughout London and visited the famous Abbey Road. Brother Neil ’85 was noticeably missing.

89 I Thomas Keenan shares that his daughter, Anais, is now in 10th grade at their local high school in Melbourne, Australia, and is looking to pursue a career in dance. Their son is halfway through sixth grade and ready to make the leap to high school next

Keith Minihane ‘89 with his family before the passing of their beloved dogs, Saige and Otis

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year. Tom is preparing for the launch of a social enterprise company this June and is considering relocating back to the USA in the next few years after more than 22 years abroad... Matt McCabe, his wife, Erica, and their three children moved from San Francisco to Marin County last year and are enjoying their time there. Matt says, “I am teaching middle school, so I am among those who share my maturity level. Come by for a hike sometime, and I hope all are well!”... Keith Minihane and his family are settling into their new home in Cañon City, CO. He is an orthopedic surgeon for St. Thomas More Hospital. They are enjoying being close to many outdoor activities and family... Daniel Scanlan is thrilled to report that this fall he will be attending Boston College to pursue a master’s degree in social work full time with an anticipated graduation date of spring 2017.

91 I Christian Palm visited campus this spring and, along with his pianist, Joachim Hoechbauer, performed for current students. The students enjoyed hearing Christian sing pieces ranging from Ralph Vaughan Williams to Schubert. Christian spoke of his journey to becoming a world-renowned singer and how his experiences at the Abbey led him to where he is now.

Christian Palm’s ‘91 daughter sporting her Abbey gear

Adam Conway ‘94 has been named to a Financial Times Top Advisors list.

Antoine Curry ‘93 visited the Abbey for Kai Smith’15’s graduation in May tion... Antoine Curry had the opportunity to recently visit the Abbey and see a close family friend, Kai Smith ’15, graduate. On the way up, he stopped in Marblehead, MA, to catch up with Edward Morey ’94. Antoine had a great weekend and welcomes the opportunity to reconnect with his Abbey family.

94 I Adam Conway, managing director of Harbor Retirement Planning in Tampa, FL, has been recently named to the 2015 Financial Times Top 401K Retirement Plan Advisors list.... Leila Howland’s third book, The Forget-Me-Not Summer, came out on May 5th from HarperCollins and has received great reviews. Leila is enjoying life in Los Angeles with her husband, Jon, and almost-oneyear-old, Henry.

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92 I

Norberto Aja is finally beginning to feel like a true New Yorker after almost 25 years in the Big Apple. Norberto works as a managing director at JCIR, a corporate communications firm, while his wife, Ingrid, is a director in the strategy group at JP Morgan. Their son, Lucas, is happy to be attending Hunter College Elementary School, where he is finishing the first grade... Patrick Frank is pleased to announce the opening of his law firm, Frank & Rice, P.A., in Tallahassee, FL, at which he is managing partner. Situated in the Florida capital, Frank & Rice is a full-service law firm that provides legal, consulting, and lobbying for a broad range of clients throughout the country... Matt Klee is happily employed designing robots in Boston and staving off what a friend has dubbed “old man’s disease” by playing soccer again... Chuck Burton and his wife, Heather, have welcomed a son, Jack, and now live in Alexandria, VA.

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Brian Burke lives in Hong Kong with his wife, Molly, and two children (daughter Bailey, 10, and son Matthew, 7). Brian is a partner at Shearman & Sterling law firm and practices in investigations and litiga-

20 TH REUNION v SEPT 25-27

Ford Curran is celebrating 11 years at Boston University’s Howard Gotlieb Archival Research Center, where he designs advertisements and publications, restores historic photographs and letters, and hosts celebrity receptions at BU that have included Lauren Bacall, Geena Davis, Keith Lockhart, Ralph Nader, Leonard Nimoy, Robert B. Parker, Mary-Louise Parker, Dan Rather, Susan Sarandon, Forest Whitaker, and Elise Wiesel. Ford and his wife, Kamiko, have two children and live in Weston, MA.

Ford Curran ‘95 of Boston University’s Howard Gotlieb Archival Research Center and actor Forest Whitaker

98 I Chris Shonting recently moved back to New York after four years in Los Angeles to continue focusing on his photography and video directing. Happy to be back in the Northeast, he is living in Manhattan while continuing to work between both New York and Los Angeles. Brian O’Reilly ‘95 and his family, from left, Tucker, Addie, Whit, holding newborn Griffin, and Kiana, holding Cooper

ALUMNI BULLETIN SUMMER 2015

99 I

Erin Olson ‘00 (right) in “And Miss Reardon Drinks A Little…” at 2nd Story Theatre, in Warren, RI

Justine (Reeber) Button has recently been promoted to director of admissions at Virginia Episcopal School, a boarding and day school in Lynchburg, VA. She is still the head girls’ lacrosse coach and recently started her own business, JAB Lacrosse, to help support the girls’ lacrosse community in her area... Rhys Stoltenberg and his wife, Bonnie, bought a house in Norwalk, CT, last January. They also welcomed another boy to the family; Peter William was born on August 6, 2014. Big brother James is now seven years old. Rhys left PWC and is now working on new payment methods for Citibank in New York... Francesca (Palazio) Tauber and her husband welcomed their second child, Henry Andrew, on February 12, 2015. Henry is a wonderful addition to their family, and his sister, Sienna, is just as in love with him as they are. They have also moved to Brooklyn. Francesca is continuing to work as the vice president of sales at a luxury women’s ready-to-wear showroom. She represents high-end European brands such as Elie Saab and Blumarine.

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15 TH REUNION v SEPT 25-27 Erin Olson just finished a sold-out run of “And Miss Reardon Drinks A Little…” with 2nd Story Theatre, in Warren, RI, at which she has been a company member for the last nine years. This July, she will be bringing her own creation, “The LetsGo! Show,” to the Providence Fringe Festival for the third run of the show. She has also found a love for writing sketch and playing with various improv groups at the Providence Improv Guild over the last few years. Erin is constantly working on something interesting, somewhere in Rhode Island. Feel free to shoot her an email at erin_olson@hotmail.com if you want to chat or know more... In June of 2014, Joseph Ortiz partnered with

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longtime friend Bryan Piccola and founded Cavalry Construction, in Plano, TX. With their 15 years of combined experience in the construction industry, the company has exceeded all expectations. Within their first year of business, they have become a recognized name in the fields of roofing and remodeling in the Dallas-Ft. Worth area. In January of 2015 they were awarded the National Association of the Remodeling Industry’s (NARI) Regional Contractor of the Year award in the commercial property exterior category for the southwest region of the U.S.A. Their award-winning project involved remodeling the exterior of the Delaney Vineyards in Grapevine, TX. They were presented with the award in April at NARI’s national meetings. Joseph and his business partner are greatly honored by the award and look forward to the continued growth of their business.

01 I

John Heins had a very busy year. In June of 2014 he married Kate McFall, of Williamsville, IL, in a beautiful ceremony in Hawaii followed by a honeymoon in New Zealand. John and Kate are enjoying living in Hawaii, where John works at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam as a captain in the Air Force. He was recently promoted to major and will be moving to Hurlburt Field, FL, to work in the 39th Information Operations Squadron. John and Kate are excited to return to the mainland and be closer to family... Tom Winter has been fortunate to see the Abbey every week this spring – from an altitude of 13,000 feet, flying from New York to Boston! Tom was NBC’s courtroom reporter for the trial of Boston Marathon bomber Dzhokhar Tsarnaev. The assignment is part of his job with NBC News Investigations, where he is now a reporter focusing on law enforcement, homeland security, and courts. Tom shares that he has “come a long way from ‘Breakfast with The Blizzard’.”... Paul SukHyun Yoon and his wife, Jenny, welcomed a new daughter, Chloe Seong-Hae Yoon. Paul’s work as an assistant principal, at Frederick H. Tuttle Middle School continues to go well, and his work as a partner with CQ Strategies, LLC, a local, Vermont-based consultancy, has also started to pick up.

Justin Hart ‘02 in Vietnam with Alexander Forbes ‘03, Sean Walsh Ramm ‘02 and friends

Brendan Rok ‘03 and his wife, Aline, in Pensacola, FL great-grandfathers, Jay Weiss and Henry Herman. Mom, dad, and baby are happy and well!... Erin Sharpe wrote that she is thrilled to be in her ninth year of teaching upper school English, advising the school yearbook, and choreographing musicals at Gaston Day School in Gastonia, NC....

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He hopes all is well with the Portsmouth Abbey community.

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Mia (Vachon) Choate and her husband, Reed, welcomed their third daughter this January, Ainsley Howell Choate. She joins big sisters Piper (4) and Ceci (3), who adore her... Justin Hart, Sean Walsh Ramm, and Alexander Forbes ’03 traveled to Vietnam for Alexander’s 30th birthday. They spent two days in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park on a trek to explore the Hang En Cave, the world’s third-largest cave... Mary Block Herman and her husband, Sean, announced that their son, Jay Henry, was born on May 1, 2015, in New York City. Jay weighed 7.4 lbs. and measured 20.45 inches at birth. He is named after his

Dan Rheault currently lives in Boston, MA, and keeps busy as the director of product marketing at a software company called Netage Solutions. In his downtime, Dan moonlights as the chief marketing officer of hockey stick manufacturer Silverback Hockey, brews his own beer, and provides marketing advice to small companies... Brendan Rok and his wife, Aline, are doing well in Pensacola, Florida, where he is a Navy helicopter pilot instructor... Lex Schwarzenberg is still in Hawaii, working with the Department of Defense as a police officer. He recently was invited to work with the Department of the Interior for a joint task operation to help alleviate the poaching problem that has arisen on the island of Oahu. He hopes everyone is well, and can’t wait for the next reunion!

04 I Jerome Igle is now living in the Charlotte, NC, area. He recently accepted a position as manager of pricing strategy at TriNet Group, Inc.... Kate Lyons is thrilled to share the news that New York’s first HAbbey Hour was a success. Twenty or so people from years ’03 through ’09 attended the event... Daphne Nebergall graduated from Columbia Business School this spring and will join the investment bank, JP Morgan, in July.

Lex Schwarzenberg ‘03 in Hawaii, working with the Department of Defense

06 I Abigail DiPalma married Wesley Isom last August in Newport, RI. Three of her bridesmaids were Abbey alums – her sister, Kellie DiPalma Simeone ’03, Amanda Roderick, and Lindsay Wilson... After teaching high school math in CA and earning a master’s degree in biomedical sciences from Tufts, Kayla Elliot is packKate Lyons ‘04 (front left) and attendees of the first HAbbey Hour in NYC ALUMNI BULLETIN SUMMER 2015

Dan Rheault ‘03 lives in Boston, MA, and is the director of product marketing at a software company called Netage Solutions.

Margaret Mahan ‘06 with Matt D’Arrigo ’90 at his organization, A Reason to Survive

Liz Childs ’08 in NYC with Antonio Leal ’04, Meg MacDonald ‘06, Ann Power ‘06, and Josh Parks ‘05. Lindsay Wilson ‘06 took the photo of the happy group.

After another great year of drilling, Colleen Kennedy ‘08 is excited to be back in Boston ing up and heading to Worcester, MA, to start at the University of Massachusetts Medical School... Courtney Mitchell graduated from Vanderbilt Law School in May. While at VLS, Courtney served as senior managing editor of the Vanderbilt Law Review, which published her note, Keep Your Friends Close: A Framework for Addressing Rights to Social Media Contacts. She also served as vice president of the Women Law Students Association and on the Moot Court Board, and she acted in two productions with Vanderbilt University Theater. She was honored to be invited to meet with Justice Clarence Thomas during his visit to the law school. In the fall, she will start work as an associate at the New York office of Orrick Herrington & Sutcliffe in its banking and finance practice... Since 2011, Margaret Mahan has been co-director of an international arts and healing program called Peace Paper Project. This year, she hiked the Camino de Santiago for the fourth time and led a monthlong arts workshop tour of Poland. Since returning to the states, Margaret has traveled to California and back, working with hospitals and universities using hand-papermaking as a form of art therapy and social action. In San Diego, she had the good fortune to collaborate with a fellow Raven, Matt D’Arrigo ’90, while working with his organization, A Reason to Survive (ARTS). In June she began pursuing her master’s degree in literature, with a concentration in the history of text technologies, from Florida State University. She hopes to channel some of her Abbey teachers’ wisdom as she teaches English to freshman university students.... Lindsay Wilson joined a group of Abbey alumni for drinks in NYC. The gathering included Liz Childs ’08, Antonio Leal ’04, Meg MacDonald, Ann Power, and Josh Parks ‘05.

07 I Tsz Chiu Guan recently transferred to his firm’s transaction services department where he is performing due diligence for M&A deals. He is very excited about this opportunity and said, “This will be a turning point in my career.”... Christopher O’Reilly received a master’s in ocean engineering from the University of Rhode Island in 2013. He is currently employed as a senior engineer at Navatek Ltd. and is also a Ph.D. candidate at URI specializing in computational fluid dynamics... Kaitlin Rok moved to New Orleans in 2012 as a Teach for America corps member with her cousin, Brianne Rok ’08. For the past three years they have taught special education at charter schools in the city. In January, they ran their second half-marathon together. Kaitlin writes, “It has been an incredible opportunity to be part of the education movement in New Orleans, and I am excited to continue my work teaching in a Boston public school this fall. I look forward to re-connecting with Abbey alums in the Boston area.”... After completing her master’s degree and teaching a class on urban culture at Boston University, Kaitlyn Soares pursued her lifelong dream of moving to New York City. She is now the digital strategy manager at Carnegie Hall, a job that perfectly blends her passion for marketing and the arts. She says, “Please be in touch if you find yourself in New York!”

08 I Colleen Kennedy has had another great year of drilling; she is excited to be back in Boston and working on exploration and pro-

Kaitlin Rok ‘07 with her cousin, Brianne Rok ’08, in New Orleans 60

P ORTSM O U T H A BB E Y S C HO OL

Horace Allen ‘09, fourth from left, earned his M.S. in commerce from the McIntire School of the University of Virginia

duction technologies. Colleen sends many thanks to her parents and to Liz Childs for all of the early morning/late night airport drop-offs in the past year. She is looking forward to seeing former classmates around the city!... Naseemah Mohamed and her husband, Oludamini Ogunnaike, will celebrate their first wedding anniversary in June! They appreciate the love and support from all of their Abbey friends, and Naseemah offered special thanks to Liz Childs, who was their “extraordinary wedding planner!” In September 2016, Naseemah will be starting a Ph.D. program in international education policy at Oxford University, UK... James Libutti has been promoted to associate regional consultant at State Street’s Intermediary Business Group. He will be adding to their field coverage in Texas and the surrounding states.

09 I Horace Allen graduated from the University of Virginia for a second time on May 17, earning his M.S. in commerce from the McIntire School... Alaina Andreozzi was nominated (based on performance and potential) by her employer, J. Walter Thompson, to participate in a six-week immersive digital education and professional development program called Squared. The program provided six consecutive weeks away from normal day-to-day demands and focused on empowering the advertising industry’s next generation of

Josephine O’Reilly ‘09 and her Salve Regina University Coach, Bill Villareal P ’09, ’12, ’16,’17

digitally skilled leaders... Sun Kyoung Choi graduated from Rice University in May and will start working for American Airlines as a revenue management analyst in July... Kyle Moriarty and his wife, Cassie, are approaching their one-year wedding anniversary. They met in the film school at Montana State University and married last June. They relocated to New York last September, where Kyle is working as a film editor and assistant editor... Josephine O’Reilly played goal keeper for Salve Regina University’s women’s lacrosse team this year, which posted the most wins since 2012 and made it to the play-offs for the first time in three years. The team was coached by Bill Villareal P ’09, ’12, ’16,’17.

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Tessa Condon ‘10 and her fiance in the Abbey Winter Garden where her parents, Creighton ‘74 and Anne, first met.

5 TH REUNION v SEPT 25-27

Tessa Condon has had an exciting few months. She was accepted into Massachusetts General Hospital’s speech pathology program and will begin classes in September. In two years, she will graduate with her master’s and hopes to work with young children with special needs. She is looking forward to the changes ahead in the next

ALUMNI BULLETIN SUMMER 2015

Sean Fredericks ‘11 at his Stonehill College graduation with his brother, Brian’14 few years!...Mary Kelsey Trumps has been serving as an AmeriCorps member with the Vermont Housing & Conservation Board in Burlington, VT, and has been accepted to teach English in the Extremadura region of Spain, through the Spanish government’s Auxiliaries de Conversación program, following the completion of her AmeriCorps term... Cat Malkemus enjoyed her first year working at the Abbey! “Teaching Ancient History to third formers was often a fun and challenging experience,” says Cat. Recently, she was named head houseparent of St. Benet’s and director of student activities for next year. This summer will be her fifth at the Portsmouth Abbey Summer Program, and she is also looking forward to her new role as assistant director of the program. She hopes everyone from the Class of 2010 will be back for the five-year reunion in September since “it’s going to be a blast!”

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Above: Brian O’Connor ‘12, at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, competes as a key pilot on the West Point Flying Team. Right: Ji Soo Kim ‘12 with her professor, E.J. Dionne, Jr., ’69, at Georgetown University, and preparing for her upcoming painting exhibit

Kara Lessels graduated from Assumption College on May 16 magna cum laude with a major in history and minor in chemistry. As for the future, she is “keeping an open mind and open to new opportunities.”... Sean Fredericks graduated May 17, 2015, from Stonehill College with a degree in economics. He is pictured at left with his brother, Brian Fredericks ’14, who is a sophomore at George Washington University... Gabrielle Rossi is joining the Teach for America corps in New Orleans, where she will be teaching secondary English... Catherine Fairhurst and Isa Minondo had lunch in Guatemala City in May with David Maldonado ’12. Catherine is finishing her last year at the Savannah College of Art and Design, and Isa is a University of Florida alumna.

P ORTSM O U T H A BB E Y S C HO OL

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Carly Augustis-Kokoni cannot believe that it has been four years since she graduated from the Abbey, and she believes she owes a lot of the success she has had to Portsmouth. Carly will be graduating a semester early in December from Sacred Heart University, where she is the current general manager of SHUBOX, Sacred Heart’s TV network. Carly is also the director of social media for the Pitch for Kids Fund for the Hudson Valley Renegades, a minor league baseball affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays. On June 1, she will begin an internship in NYC with Fox 5, where she will be working on “Good Day New York,” pitching segment ideas and working on other production aspects of the program. Carly says she misses the Abbey a lot and hopes to visit next semester... Ji Soo Kim realized that “the Abbey is everywhere”

David Maldonado ‘12 is studying petroleum engineering at Louisiana State University.

Liam O’Connor ‘12 completed his third season playing lacrosse for the Beloit College Men’s Lacrosse Team.

when she took a class with Professor EJ Dionne ’69 at Georgetown. His story of the Abbey (or Portsmouth Priory at that time) was quite different from that of hers. Last summer, Ji Soo was in Spain and was able to meet up with Señor Guerenabarrena! She then attended a Mass at the Vatican, which reminded her of the Sunday Mass at the Abbey. Ji Soo also took an oil painting class as an elective this past semester, and some of her paintings will be displayed at an upcoming exhibit... David Maldonado is entering his senior year at Louisiana State University, where he is studying petroleum engineering. He had the privilege of interning this summer with a Fortune 500 company, Devon Energy, in Carthage, TX. David said Portsmouth Abbey prepared him for the challenges of the tough engineering curriculum he has undergone, but, more importantly, the professional etiquette required when interviewing with and working for major companies that have extremely high standards. In May, he had lunch in Guatemala City with two Abbey alumni and dear friends, Catherine Fairhurst ’11 and Isa Minondo ’11. David hopes everyone from the Class of 2012 is doing well and reports that his sister, Maria Maldonado, will be joining the Abbey this fall with the Class of 2018. He is thrilled for her and she is proud to be a Raven!...

Brian O’Connor finished his third year at the United States Military Academy at West Point. He is a chemical engineering major and this last semester earned distinguished dean’s list honors by achieving straight As. Brian competes as a key pilot on the West Point Flying Team. His efforts helped West Point beat Navy to take first place in their recent competition. He will be spending time in Alaska this summer while training to be an officer.. Liam O’Connor has completed his third season playing lacrosse for the Beloit College Men’s Lacrosse Team. A two-year captain, he was very excited to share with us his recent recognition on the All-Midwest Lacrosse Conference (MCL) team, with Second-Team honors.

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The family of Hunter Harries wants everyone to know they are all doing well and are enormously appreciative of the love and support they have received from the Abbey community. Hunter’s family shared a photo from the one-year anniversary of his passing. The Harries family and a few friends gathered on that sunny day to remember him and build a snowman at his grave site, wearing his favorite 49ers hat, Vineyard Vines sunglasses and a cigar. Hunter is missed very much. The Harries family sends their love...

ALUMNI BULLETIN SUMMER 2015

The Harries family and friends gathered to remember Hunter ‘13 and build a snowman at his grave site, wearing his favorite 49ers hat, Vineyard Vines sunglasses and a cigar.

Laura Lansing ‘13 with Kristin Harper ’09 on a dig in Orvieto, Italy has already had some amazing finds with access to a new site – an Etruscan necropolis! “This next year will bring GREs for Ph.D. programs, studying abroad in either Rome or Edinburgh, and more digs!” Laura invites those in Italy to look her up. Arrivederci!... Upon leaving Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Hadley Matthews joined the London College of Fashion’s Class of 2018 in the field she is most passionate about – cosmetic science! She has spent the year learning the chemistry behind cosmetics and perfume, all while falling in love with the city of London. Any Abbey alums who find themselves across the pond are more than welcome to crash at her flat!

NEW ALUMNI BOOKS Clay Boland, Jr. ’48

Live the World You Want: a Handbook for Students

Michael C.J. Putnam ’50

The Humanness of Heroes: Studies in the Conclusion of Virgil’s Aeneid

Laura Lansing has had an exciting year. She was inducted into the National Honor Society as a freshman for excellence in classical studies. This was followed shortly thereafter by her first archaeological dig, where she had the pleasure of working with Kristin Harper ’09 in Orvieto, Italy, on a fascinating Roman-Etruscan site. Once Laura returned stateside, she started her studies as a classical civilizations major at the University of Vermont. She declared a double major in Greek and Latin with a minor in classical civilizations. Laura ended her sophomore year by winning awards for excellence in Latin and Greek and finished overall in the top two percent for her major, making high honors dean’s list. She has returned to work on the leading Etruscan site in Italy, where she

John B. Cummings, Jr. ’63

Cream of the Crop: Fall River’s Best and Brightest Christopher Buckley ’70

But Enough About You: Essays Michael Bartlett ’72 (deceased) and Rose Love Bartlett

The Bartlett Book of Garden Elements Hadley Matthews ‘13 joined the London College of Fashion’s Class of 2018 in the field of cosmetic science.

John Fulweiler, Jr. ’89

A Swim: Based on a True Story

Be sure to visit the Portsmouth Abbey School website to shop online at the

Leila Howland ‘94

School Bookstore: www.portsmouthabbey.org

The Forget-Me-Not Summer Nikki Tinsley ’94

After Class: Teachers Talk Smack – An After Class Comic Book 64

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Mr. and Mrs. Emmett O’Connell P ‘16, ’17 Co-Chairs, Parents’ Association Stowe, VT Mr. Shane O’Neil ‘65 Bedford, MA Mr. John Perreira P ’05 Portsmouth, RI

Thank you! We did it!!

PORTSMOUTH ABBEY SCHOOL ANNUAL FUND 2014-15

Address Service Requested

THIS IS YOUR REUNION YEAR! We have a fantastic line-up of events for the entire family! creating some great new memories in the process!

September 25-27, 2015

Visit www.portsmouthabbey.org/reunion for more

Questions? Want to get involved? Contact Patty Gibbons at 401- 643-1281 or pgibbons@portsmouthabbey.org

information on the schedule of events,

SUMMER ALUMNI BULLETIN 2015

and members of the Diman Club (alumni from all classes prior to 1965)

A BB E Y S C HO OL PORTSMOUTH ABBE Y SCHOOL

1945 - 1950 - 1955 - 1960 - 1965 - 1970 - 1975 - 1980 - 1985 - 1990 - 1995 - 2000 - 2005 - 2010

Come back and reminisce with classmates while

P ORT S M O U T H

Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Providence, RI Permit No. 30

285 Cory’s Lane Portsmouth, Rhode Island 02871 www.portsmouthabbey.org

accommodations, golf outings, class dinners, babysitting and more!

SUMMER ALUMNI BULLETIN 2015