mini bulletin
PURPOSE AND ACHIEVEMENT
Every year, we send off a wonderful senior class to great colleges and universities. Like you, they will be proud alumnae who will do amazing things with their lives. In that vein, I want to highlight that Pamela Gadboys Layton ’75 is the Stoneleigh-Burnham School Distinguished Alumna for 2025. Congrats to Pam! We recognize her background in science, and cell therapy in particular. She is the founder of 4immune Therapeutics, Inc. as well as multiple other companies in the biotech space. A member of the SBS Board of Trustees in the past, Pam currently brings her expertise to the boards of several other organizations.
We believe in celebrating all of our alumnae and in connecting you all to the Stoneleigh-Burnham School of today. The cover shot of this issue of the mini-bulletin highlights our riders who have qualified for the International Equestrian Association (IEA) Zone 1 Finals of competition in both Hunt Seat and Dressage. We are thrilled to see what they can achieve at the next level.
Another important signature program is the International Baccalaureate Program (IB). SBS has been an IB World School for more than ten years, since former Head of School Sally Mixsell ’69 introduced it in 2011. Through the IB curriculum, students develop their creativity, critical thinking ability, and global citizenship skills. Our classrooms are active learning centers where inquiry and excitement occurs every day! Also, all of our students, from
7th graders to seniors, are involved in immersive and experiential learning through the Wingspan program at the end of the year in May.
Here’s to another great year at SBS! We are looking forward to seeing many of you at Reunion! We know that your journeys and voices serve as great role models for the next generation of Owl alumnae. You inspire us with your involvement in
“The theater, the theater, what happened to the theater?”
While Danny Kaye’s character asked this very question in the classic movie White Christmas, Stoneleigh-Burnham has the answer.
This year’s musical performance of The Guy Who Didn’t Like Musicals brought back black box style theater after five years of traditional stage performances. Staff, cast, and crew brought the community a wonderful weekend of performances at the end of February and beginning of March. The performance was co-directed by Liz Vollinger, Senior Associate Director of Enrollment; Robby Moore, Front Office Manager and Arts Department Teacher; and Meg Reilly, Arts Department Chair.
The black box style was a learning experience for the students, many of
whom were new to theater either in general or at SBS. Returning performers, Zoe ’25, Doreen ’25, and Matcha ’26, showed themselves to be true leaders, according to the directors, throughout a very student-driven schedule of rehearsals and performances. Sara ’26 assisted for the second year in choreographing the larger dance numbers and teaching the routines.
Performances such as these afford
SBS students the opportunity to take on leadership roles, step out of their comfort zones, build confidence, and find new interests. The audience, the community, is all the better for a night at the theater.
STAY CONNECTED WITH SBS. Tag us on social media! Use the hashtag #SBSOwlsForLife Instagram.com/sbschool Instagram.com/StoneleighBurnhamAlumnae
SETTING A STANDARD FOR WOMEN LEADERS
PAMELA GADBOYS LAYTON ’75
As a student at Stoneleigh-Burnham, Pamela Gadboys Layton ’75 participated in school clubs and teams, taking advantage of the various leadership opportunities available. These opportunities and experiences began to prepare her for her future. The qualities she fostered at SBS have served her well, and earned her the nomination for Stoneleigh-Burnham’s 2025 Distinguished Alumna Award Honoree to be presented during Reunion Weekend.
Pamela’s leadership positions have led to notable successes in male dominated fields. She has not allowed preconceived notions of what women can accomplish deter her from achieving her goals. Pamela has spent her career working in science and technology. As founder and CEO of Parcell Laboratories, her company developed cellbased therapeutics based on Early Lineage Adult (ELA®) stem cell platform technology, and she was responsible for taking one of the first pure stem cell products from bench to bedside for use in spinal fusion surgeries. Later, Pamela served as president of Bioarray, a Farmington, CTbased biotechnology company that develops predictive diagnostic tests for cancer treatment.
Currently Pamela serves as chief executive officer and is a founder of 4immune Therapeutics, Inc., which was founded around a novel CAL/CAR T cell therapy that targets and kills autoreactive T cells responsible for specific autoimmune disorders. The company’s lead therapeutic targets early-stage type 1 diabetes.
A serial entrepreneur, Pamela has founded multiple companies, most of them in the biotech space. She has taken numerous products from concept to market,
“SBS was a perfect venue to inspire leadership in young women. Whatever leadership we as women take on, it is our responsibility to advocate and invest in changes that support the advancement of women. We don’t need to be CEOs of corporations to be leaders, and for that matter do not need to hold a paying job. Women’s leadership is everywhere, even inside the home.”
By Kathleen Tuck Fontaine ’83 Director of Alumnae Relations & Family Engagement
including the first pure stem cell allograft for spinal fusion surgeries. She holds multiple U.S. and European patents on the ELA stem cell (one of only three stem cells to be patented worldwide) and its therapeutic applications, as well as the patent for the Interactive Information Management Network that allows security system notifications to be routed per database configurations for information flow optimization.
A Certified Tissue Bank Specialist as designated by the American Association of Tissue Banks (AATB) Pamela also mentors companies through the MIT Mentor Smart program, is a member of the Small Business Association of New England (SBANE), a judge for the SBANE Innovation Awards, a member of Launchpad and Sky Ventures, the co-founder of the Friends of Clark House, and a member of Womenade Boston.
With all of her commitments and projects she finds time to give back, to share her wealth of knowledge with others. Pamela works with emerging biotech companies to help establish their corporate strategy, product development, manufacturing processes, quality management systems, product commercialization, funding, and partnership opportunities. She also sits on the board of The Pioneer Institute for Public Policy Research, the Advisory Board of Mass Innovation Network and boards of biotech companies, the Newton-Wellesley Hospital, and the Mother Brook Arts and Community Center.
From her days in the classrooms at Stoneleigh-Burnham, Pamela’s achievements shed a spotlight on the leadership skills fostered at SBS and honed over the years through her work in science and technology.
WHAT’S HAPPENING HERE?
Our Middle School students weren’t just playing – they were conducting a scientific exploration of magnetic slime. Perhaps you saw them on social media, but did you know they were delving into the fascinating world of ferrofluid?
These young scientists concocted a gooey substance that’s not only irresistibly fun to play with but also a magnet’s new best friend! They explored the science behind this mesmerizing material, experimenting with different recipes and testing its properties. Who knew that combining the joy of slime with the magic of magnetism could be so educational?
SBS LITERARY SOCIETY’S PODCAST
‘HOOTS’— OF THE OWL’S NEST
What is a ‘hoot’? It’s a twenty minute podcast featuring the voices of the Stoneleigh-Burnham School community. It is sponsored by the Literary Society and available to all listeners on our website: sbschool.org/the-owl-s-nest
Developed by students Melissa ’25, Leila ’25, and teacher John Alter, it also features Zoe ’25 and is produced by Claribel ’26, Technology Department intern. The Owl’s Nest is published weekly during the school year.
From the creators: “We feature and privilege poetry, but also offer advice, interviews, discussion of any aspect of our life together you might find interesting. Please let the Literary Society know of topics you find interesting.”
THE GREENHOUSE EFFECT AT SBS: Student Eco Leaders
By Kathleen Tuck Fontaine ’83 Director of Alumnae Relations & Family Engagement
Students at Stoneleigh-Burnham enjoy a variety of clubs and affinity groups on campus that support their hobbies, interests, and community. Focusing on the environment, sustainability, and STEM, student leaders Lucy ’26 and Ruby ’27, along with faculty advisor Erika Parker P’30, head up this club.
This academic year, Eco Leaders have chosen projects to begin in the spring that will be ongoing. Members are intentional in keeping the SBS community engaged with issues of note, presenting at Housemeeting on such topics as Coral Bleaching, and participating in a youth environment/ climate lobbying event at the State House in Boston. SBS students joined peers from all over the Commonwealth advocating for Head Start, bikefriendly policies, and climate legislation.
They have chosen the existing but underutilized Greenhouse, which many alumnae will remember, as their first major project. Their goal is to begin renovating the space this year. Once ready, it will house a variety of plants including herbs and vegetables, as well as native plants. Once weather appropriate, those plants would move out into the Eco Leader’s proposed raised beds, complimenting the pollinator garden they will revive. They would welcome assistance from alumnae who would like to work with them as the gardens are planted. Interested in learning more? Email the Advancement Office at advancement@sbschool.org.
Eco Leaders pictured above center with Massachusetts State Representative Natalie Blais.
A NIGHT TO REMEMBER
By Brittany Porter Assistant Director of Advancement
The Class of 2025 joyously took part in their 100 Nights celebration, a cherished Stoneleigh-Burnham tradition. The entire community gathered to hear the seniors share favorite memories, stories, and lessons learned both inside and outside the classroom. It was a memorable evening for all, marking less than 100 nights until the Class of 2025 officially joins our alumnae community.
FRESH FACES ON CAMPUS
by Herline Pierre-Louis ’28
Editor’s Note: This article is excerpted with permission from Sententiae, the student newspaper of Stoneleigh-Burnham School; Volume 6: Issue 3; January 29, 2025. Elizabeth ’29 is from Shandong, China. Ida ’26 hails from North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany and came to SBS through the international scholarship program ASSIST.
Six new students have joined Stoneleigh-Burnham, after winter break, for the second semester. Elizabeth ’29 and Ida ’26, were interviewed to get to know them.
What are some things that you look forward to here at Stoneleigh-Burnham?
Elizabeth: I want to learn how to ride horses because I’ve never done it before, and I am starting in the spring. I also like orchestra because I play the violin.
Ida: I am looking forward to being academically challenged, achieving goals, finding friends, and mostly having more fun and learning better English. I also think the debate team is cool. I play the guitar, and I’m looking forward to joining something to play it.
After your first week at Stoneleigh-Burnham, what were some positive experiences you’ve had?
Elizabeth: The first weekend here I met my friend Bethany ’28 who attended the same summer program as me. Everyone here is very kind to me, [like] when [I] was lost, there were people to help me find my classes. I met many friends so far.
Ida: I Agree. The best thing about Stoneleigh-Burnham is definitely the community. Everyone is open-minded and welcoming. As Elizabeth said, if you’re looking for your classes, there is always someone to help you. I also really like the classes; I think they’re interesting.
STONELEIGH-BURNHAM MAKES CLEAR CHOICE FOR SOCCER COACH
Exciting news! StoneleighBurnham School (SBS) is thrilled to welcome Mandy Dziewulski Black as the new head coach of the varsity soccer program. Coach Black brings over 20 years of coaching and playing experience to SBS. Lisa Moore, Director of Athletics at Stoneleigh-Burnham School, said, “We are thrilled to welcome Coach Black to the SBS community. Her extensive experience, proven track record of success, and commitment to developing young athletes make her the ideal candidate to lead our varsity soccer program.”
Coach Black’s coaching experience spans all levels, from youth club teams to college programs. She has served as the assistant women’s soccer coach at Mount Holyoke College and Mount Ida College. She also served as the head coach for the FC Massachusetts and Western United Pioneers U18 and U11 girls’ teams.
As a player, Coach Black’s passion for soccer began in her youth. She played club soccer for the Kingsport Crossfire and was a member of her high school team at Oak Ridge High School in Tennessee. She then went on
to play four years at Hollins University in Virginia, where she served as team captain for three years and was named Athlete of the Year her senior season.
Coach Black said, “I am incredibly excited to join the StoneleighBurnham School community and lead the varsity soccer program. I am passionate about fostering a positive and competitive environment where student-athletes can develop their skills, build confidence, and achieve their goals.”
Coach Black holds a Master of Business Administration from Tiffin University and a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Hollins University. She is a member of the United Soccer Coaches (USC) and holds a Level 1 Goalkeeping Certification, Level 6 Intermediate Certification, and a USC National Diploma.
PIZZA & POLITICS: A Democracy &
Deep Dish
By Brittany Porter Assistant Director of Advancement
Maeve ’26 (left) is bringing her passion for civic engagement to Stoneleigh-Burnham. Her internship with Democracy Matters, a national non-profit, inspired her to launch Pizza & Politics: A Democracy & Deep Dish at SBS. This new group provides a platform for students to discuss current events and learn about social change. “My goal is to create a comfortable space for sharing political thoughts and to promote civic engagement,” Maeve explains. She credits her internship with providing valuable leadership skills and resources. Maeve encourages other students to find a faculty mentor and build on SBS’s supportive community to launch their own initiatives.
SUNSHINE AND SISTERHOOD: Mini-Reunions in Florida
A lovely SBS mini-reunion was held in Wellington, Florida on February 1st was hosted by Beth Schuster Williams ’84 at her home. Guests enjoyed catching up, sharing memories of their time at SBS, and rekindling friendships. Front, left to right: Susan Mattei ’83H Sr. Dir. of Advancement, Resa Schuster Ike ’85, Gatey Graves Kagan ’86, our host Beth, Head of School Laurie Lambert, and Jane Simpson ’85. Back row: Amy Patt ’87, P’24, Trustee Meredith Meryman Landis ’84, Alumnae Board President Heather McDonald Whiteman ’86, Pam Kostanski Dempsey ’82, Carla Buono Welch ’85, and Trustee Bridget O’Brien ’82, P’24.
Our fun-filled event in Vero Beach on February 2nd was hosted by Judith Howard Whitney-Terry ’56 MAB (front, left) at the
Oaks Beach & Tennis Club. Attending were: Judith, Pam Gadboys Layton ’75, Head of School Laurie Lambert, Judith Thompson Wheately ’56 MAB, Sherrie Stephens Cutler ’57 MAB, Trustee Bridget O’Brien ’82, P’24, Pam Kostanski Dempsey ’82, Lisa Huffman Loyd ’71, Edie Jones ’71, Julia Jacobs ’60 MAB, Carole Nelson Barton ’60 MAB, Judy Winslow Robinson ’62, Susan Mattei ’83H, Martha Parker Chamberlin ’59 MAB, and Katherine Bates Desai ’59 MAB. Spouses and partners, including Bob Terry, John Drahzal P’24, Jay Thompson, Robert Donahue, and Rohit Desai enjoyed their own table and lively conversation.
We extend our sincere gratitude to Beth and Judith for their warm hospitality and for making these mini-reunions such memorable occasions. For more photos of the gatherings and to read who attended, visit our online Class Notes.
See the back cover for information on Alumnae Class Notes and In Memoriam tributes.
FRIDAY SERVICE - STONE SOUP CAFÉ
Stoneleigh-Burnham is about community, on campus, and in the surrounding area. SBS students have volunteered at Stone Soup Café, a local organization, for four years. Stone Soup provides community meals, a pay-what-you-can grocery program, and more. They recently gave a shout-out on social media to their SBS volunteers, who are routinely praised by the staff for their ability to work independently and conscientiously.
Sea
Hard Work Pays Off FOR SBS RIDERS
By Brittany Porter Assistant Director of Advancement
NEWS FLASH!
Stoneleigh-Burnham School’s equestrian teams are at it again. Nearing the end of a successful Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) season, both the Hunt Seat and Dressage teams have qualified for their respective Zone 1 Finals.
Stoneleigh-Burnham’s Equestrian Center staff: Kay Ward, Mina Payne ’78, Sarah Ward, and Abby Bourque are busy training the IEA equestrian qualifiers.
Follow them on social media for all the latest updates and results. @sbsequestrian
As the bulletin went to press, the Upper School Dressage Team and two Middle School riders have moved on to qualify for IEA Finals that will be held April 24-27 in St. Louis, Missouri.
Hunt Seat qualifiers will compete March 29-30 at their Zone 1 Finals.
Congratulations to SBS IEA Dressage and Hunt Seat Zone 1 Qualifiers pictured above and on the cover (back row, left to right): Summer ’29, Greenfield, MA; Maddie ’26, Amherst, MA; Mena ’28, Marlboro, VT; Eleanor ’27, Phillipston, MA; Caroline ’29, Northampton, MA; Lili ’28, Shelburne Falls, MA; Ashe ’25, Amherst, MA; Lara ’26, Kirchberg An Der Pielach, Austria; Audrey ’28, Bernardston, MA. Front row, left to right: Aden ’27, New Bedford, MA; Amelie ’29, South Deerfield, MA; and Addi ’28, Colrain, MA. Not present for the photo: Ani ’29, Shutesbury, MA and Maddie ’30, Shelburne, MA.
Photo credit: Jess Marie Photography.
574 Bernardston Road Greenfield, MA 01301
sbschool.org
Families: If this issue is addressed to your child who no longer maintains a permanent address at your home, please notify the Alumnae Office at alumnae@sbschool.org or 413.774.2711 x317
Not receiving the Alumnae Newsletter? Contact us at advancement@sbschool.org
Class of 2020
The Stoneleigh-Burnham Alumnae Board invites the 5th Reunion Class of 2020 to join in a special event in their honor
Saturday, May 31 at 10:00 a m
Please contact Kathleen Tuck Fontaine ’83, Director of Alumnae Relations & Family Engagement at kfontaine@sbschool.org
Scan the QR code to view the online Alumnae Class Notes and In Memoriam tributes.
