THE BRIDGE For Severn Alumni and Friends
JANUARY 2013
A CENTURY ON COURSE
FACULTY MEMBERS TRAVEL INTO THE HEART OF THE MIDDLE EAST CONFLICT Shown with Lydia Aisenberg of Kibbutz Mishmar Haemek
INTRODUCING THE OUTDOOR LEARNING CENTER CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OF WOMEN
Oo -ra h! At the Upper School Fall Athletics Awards Ceremony, Chris Kirchenheiter “Coach K” led students & faculty in a group chant to pump up for basketball season. Go Admirals!
a snapshot of fall 2012 Students, parents, and faculty were busy bees this fall with fall sports, school socials, class bonding events, Homecoming, championship games and matches, the fall dramatic production, winter performances and more! This Spring, make sure you don’t miss a beat! Stay up to date with coming events on our website, www.severnschool.com. Missed an event and want to check out the photos? Go to Flickr and look up SevernSchool!
Alumni bask etball
game
“Gangam style” “Santa Baby...”
SEVern river classic 11/2
The Bridge JANUARY 2013
FEATURES
EDITOR/DESIGNER
Nicole Parker CLASS NOTES
Denise Tray Rosson '78 Class Secretaries
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STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
A NOBLE CAUSE BY NICOLE PARKER Jack Noble ‘13 leads archives project in preparation for Severn’s Centennial Celebration during the 2013-2014 school year.
The Bridge is published for alumni, parents and friends by Severn School’s Advancement Office. We encourage all of our readers to respond with comments, questions and information.
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OUTDOOR LEARNING CENTER BY KRISTYN KUHN Introducing the Outdoor Learning Center, featuring an outdoor classroom, counsel ring, low ropes course, and
Editorial Office
The Bridge
Severna Park, MD 21146
Severn School Website
www.severnschool.com
Editor’s Email
artist reflection area.
116 Maple Avenue
info@severnschool.com
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COVER STORY
FACULTY MEMBERS, BUCKLEY & KLEIN, TRAVEL INTO THE HEART OF THE MIDDLE EAST CONFLICT Teachers Marc Buckley and Josh Klein participate in a
Board of Trustees, Chair
Q&A about their summer 2012 trip to Israel as recipients
John S. Bremer
of Severn School’s Stephens F. Millard ‘51 Grant.
Alumni Director
Denise Tray Rosson '78 Alumni Association Chair
Mark Carroll '83
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40 YEARS OF WOMEN BY JAMES W. DONNELLY A look back at 40 years of women at Severn School. Written by James W. Donnelly who stepped down as Headmaster in 1984, after 12 years at Severn School.
© 2013 SEVERN SCHOOL. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Severn School does not discriminate against any person in admission, employment, or otherwise because of race, creed, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or age. Severn School is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools and the Association of Independent Schools (AIMS), and is approved by the Maryland State Board of Education.
DEPARTMENTS 2
CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION
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SEVERN NEWS
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SEVERN ATHLETICS
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ALUMNI NEWS
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CLASS NOTES
CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION: 1914-2014
A CENTURY ON COURSE
A Message From the Headmaster Greetings,
I imagine the importance of our next school year is known to nearly everyone associated with Severn, but in case you’ve just reconnected, the 20132014 school year will be our 100th. Most certainly, there will be celebratory festivities throughout the year marking this incredible milestone. While we are months from finishing the current school year, we are well into the planning stages for the Centennial so please consider the requests for volunteers and input on page 5 and keep a lookout for invitations to upcoming events. Doug Lagarde
2013-2014 School Year Will Commemorate Severn’s 100th
Over the course of 100 years, Severn has changed significantly from its 1914 version – a Naval Academy preparatory school with six students and two teachers – to its current configuration of nearly 600 students in grades 6-12 with 115 employees. In this issue of The Bridge, you will find a very informative article written by James Donnelly, Severn’s sixth Headmaster, about the School’s transition from an all-boys’ school to a coed school in the early 70s. Jim’s article refreshed for me a long-running debate in educational circles as to the best design of a school – coed or single gender. In full disclosure, prior to coming to Severn, my 21 years of working in schools were done so in allboys’ schools. I could write volumes – as many have done over the past 25 years or so – on the topic of school composition, but, given space constraints,
This waterscape illustration of Severn School and the Severn River is featured in the School’s The Bridge newest2 marketing materials.
CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION: 1914-2014
I will simply dip my toe into this fiercely debated topic. In 1991 the American Association of University Women (AAUW) published Shortchanging girls, shortchanging America: a nationwide poll that assessed self-esteem, educational experiences, interest in math and science and career aspirations. According to the AAUW the report “awakened the nation to the effects of gender bias in education” and spawned research and heightened sensitivity to the needs of girls with a call “to commit ourselves to a school system and society that encourages girls to attain their full potential.” In recent years, a different story line has been spun: that of schools failing boys at every level of education in part because “schools, like the economy, now value the self-control, focus, and verbal aptitude that seem to come more easily to young girls.” In 2010, The Atlantic published an article, The End of Men, citing, “Earlier this year, women became the majority of the workforce for the first time in U.S. history. Most managers are now women too. And for every two men who get a college degree this year, three
women will do the same…Women now earn 60% of all masters degrees, about half of all law and medical degrees, and 43% of all MBAs.” So, is there one right design for a school? No. Good teaching is good teaching and bad teaching is bad teaching whether it is conducted in a coed or single gender classroom or in the newest iteration – the gender-neutral classroom – online learning. Yes, boys and girls are different and gender should be taken into account when teaching a child, but so too should the differences that exist among the seven or so girls or seven or so boys in a class when designing lessons and assessments. In his book, Reaching Boys, Teaching Boys, Dr. Richard Hawley (further disclosure, I worked for Dr. Hawley for 15 years) writes, “Boys are relational learners – establishing an affective relationship is a precondition to successful teaching of boys.” No disrespect to my friend and mentor intended but aren’t relationships central to successful teaching regardless of gender? Teachers must be aware of individual learning styles, which very often differ from the stereotypical strengths and
weaknesses of genders. Therefore, to realize the full potential of a child requires knowing the distinctive way he or she may respond to instruction and valuing the child as a distinct individual. When this happens a child comes to trust the core of the relationship and is primed to reach his or her full potential. Next year when we recognize and celebrate the many tangible accomplishments of this storied School and its people, we will, more importantly, be honoring 100 years of trusting, inspiring relationships. Relationships have been, are, and will remain the infrastructure that has sustained Severn during its first century and allowed thousands of graduates to make a positive impact in the world. I very much look forward to celebrating this landmark with all of you. Go Admirals!
Doug Lagarde Headmaster
The State of the School
O
n Wednesday, November 7, on what would have been Severn School’s founder Rolland Teel’s 127th birthday, Headmaster Lagarde addressed the Severn Community regarding the financial state of the school.
During his presentation entitled, State of the School: Severn on Course, Headmaster Lagarde introduced the School’s budget, discussed the importance of the Annual Fund, defined our endowment, illustrated where Severn stands in comparison to other local Association of Independent Maryland and DC Schools (AIMS) schools, and confirmed that we are in a healthy financial position and on course as we embark on a capital campaign to renovate Teel Academic Center. “We are in a strong position because of the generosity of our community, past and present, who have supported and currently support the school so that our students and faculty can benefit daily.
Endowment slide from State of the School presentation
From Severn’s beautiful campus to our exceptional curriculum – everything is touched by the continued support of our parents, alumni, grandparents and friends,” Lagarde stated. The presentation concluded with the first public glimpse of artist impressions of a new Teel building. The renovated, state-of-the-art building will provide the School with a “front door” to our campus; include a new library, improved classroom and office space, open spaces - indoors and outdoors - for students,
faculty and staff to study and meet. This much needed renovation will also open up the campus and provide access to our new outside learning center that includes a low ropes course and an outdoor classroom space (see pg. 12). Further information on our campaign for Teel, Severn On Course, will be provided in the months to come. Questions? Contact Danielle DeVeau Crawford, Campaign & Major Gifts Director at d.crawford@severnschool.com. January 2013
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CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION: 1914-2014
A Noble Cause
Jack Noble '13 leads archives project in preparation for Severn Centennial.
BY NICOLE PARKER
Want to share your Severn memorabilia? Contact info@severnschool.com
Much like all outstanding Severn students and athletes, Jack Noble ‘13 started his senior year with hopes of accomplishing several academic and athletic goals before heading off to college. So, along with serious hours spent at the library, track, trails, and pool - he’s spending his senior year up to his knees in historical documents, pictures, books, and memorabilia from Severn’s past organizing the Severn School Archives. The Severn School Archives are housed in the lower level of Teel Academic Center. And from the looks of it, the room contains everything from Severn’s past; from photographs, to pendants, to old letters and yearbooks. Neglected for decades, the historical artifacts of Severn slowly gathered dust and decayed, beginning to erase the precious memories and mementos of the School’s nearly century old history. 4
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The 90th celebration in 2004 instigated necessary attention to the room, and for the past decade students and faculty sifted through the boxes and piles of archives, slowly uncovering the forgotten history of the school. Noble got wind of the room and its hidden treasures from Chris Byrns ’12, who worked on organizing the Archives for his Severn Fellows project. Noble decided he would continue and expand upon Byrns’ project, and begin to develop a process that aims to make the Archives accessible to students as an invaluable resource for academic research. “My hope is that eventually the old publications, photos, newspaper articles, and mementos will be integrated into the library and moved into a climatecontrolled environment,” Noble says. “I’m not that into history, but I think it
would be so helpful to the students to learn from their history at the School.” Noble has found scores of editions of “The Navigator,” Severn School’s yearbook. He also came across many editions of the “Anchor,” Severn’s student newspaper. “If the Anchor editor wants to look back at a specific year in Severn’s history for a current article, they would be able to find it easily in our categorized archives,” Noble says. “I have also contacted old coaches to try and gather historical athletic records. As an athlete I would love to have the op-
Noble aims to make the Archives accessible to students as an invaluable resource for academic research.
CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION: 1914-2014
tion to look back at previous runners’ records, so I could see where I stand in our school’s history.” Jack has also inadvertently stepped into a key role in preparing for Severn’s Centennial Celebration during the 20132014 school year. Similar to the School’s 90th anniversary, the School plans to utilize the archival items in the displays, events, and milestone keepsakes. Along with Faith Ruppert ‘14, Noble has been working to sort the archives into decades, a natural categorization of the School’s history. When an unidentified photograph turns up, Noble and Ruppert turn to the old Navigator’s to identify the students and/or faculty. “It’s difficult because frequently there are missing copies of publications from certain years so we can’t identify some photos,” Noble says. Also lending a hand in identifying older Severn faces are: John Leimkuhler ’59, Jack Jones ’49, Monty Baker ’59, Bat Masterson ’59, Tom Dawson ’59, and Don Trumpy ’59. There are some oddities lurking in the corners of the Archives room, including an old Admirals Parents’ Association cookbook. However, the “coolest” item Jack has come across belonged to Severn School’s founder, Rolland M. Teel. “I found his top hat. I think that it’s awesome we have something so personal of his, over 100 years old,” Noble says. There are still many items in need of identification and organization. To assist with the project or to contribute your Severn memorabilia, please contact info@severnschool.com.
We will be celebrating our 100th birthday during the 2013 -2014 school year with an assortment of celebratory events. We need your help!
Severn is
100!
CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS
Would you like to get involved, or do you have ideas for the events? Celebration Co-Chairs Chris Friend email: cfriend7849@aol.com phone: 410.263.6319 Adger Stokes email: adgerstokes@yahoo.com phone: 410.573.6563 “The Big Party” Chair Nick Codd ‘69 email: nickcodd@verizon.net phone: 410.647.4924 Celebration Liaison Mary Kernan Salsich email: m.salsich@severnschool.com phone: 410.647.7701 x 2261
CALL FOR ARTISTS
Are you an artist? Whatever the medium - visual, performing, sculptor or dancer? As Severn readies for our Centennial Celebration, we want to recognize the artists among us. We are planning a few special events and exhibits but we need to know who you are, and we would like to get you recognized and involved.
CALL FOR MILITARY SERVICE MEMBERS
Severn School is proud of its history and especially proud of the alumni who have served our country in the military. To honor you, we are designing a special tribute wall on our campus that will feature a service star for every alum who has ever served, even briefly, in the military. While we know who many of you are, we do not know all of you. We will unveil our Service Tribute Wall as part of our Centennial Celebration in 2014.
Jack Noble ‘13 working in the Archives room.
Please tell us if you are an artist or served our country in the military by “Registering” under Alumni Events at www. severnschool.com January 2013
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SEVERN NEWS
Meet Severn School’s Newest Trustees Severn School is proud to introduce the following as new members of Severn’s Board of Trustees:
Robyn Formica ’87 is currently a director of financial operations at TEKsystems, a leading IT staffing company based in Hanover, MD. She is responsible for the financial management of a portion of TEKsystem’s sales organization. She has been with TEKsystems for just over four years; however she has over 20 years of experience in finance. Robyn started her career working for KPMG Peat Marwick in Washington D.C. Prior to joining TEKsystems, she worked for Qwest Communications (now known as Centurylink). At Qwest she worked in several different roles ranging from corporate accounting, financial planning to running a portion of the consumer sales organization. Robyn graduated from Georgetown University with a Bachelor’s degree in business administration and is a C.P.A. She is proud to be an alumna of Severn School and has been fortunate enough to pass this legacy on to her oldest daughter, Josie ’18. Robyn is a native of Maryland and lives with her three children in Severna Park. Richard L Gergar graduated from the University of Maryland with a bachelor of science degree in finance. Rich is the chief executive and co-founder of G&G Outfitters Inc. a nation-
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ally recognized branded merchandise agency. He and his wife, Theresa, live in Annapolis with their four children, Colin ’14, Madison ’16, Dylan, and Gavin. Sanjiv Lakhanpal, MD is the founder, president and CEO of the Center for Vein Restoration with more than 35 offices in Maryland, Virginia, DC, Michigan, and overseas. He is a physician board certified in general surgery and cardiovascular and thoracic surgery. He is a national media spokesperson on vein and cardiovascular care. Sanjiv and his wife Joan Cantero live in Davidsonville with their three children Jai ’12, Neel ’16 and Priya ’17. Alison LaVigne was born and raised in Washington, DC. After graduating from Xavier University in New Orleans, she attended The University of California College of Medicine at Irvine, CA. She completed her residency in radiation oncology and currently practices in Bowie, MD as part of Associates in Radiation Medicine. She served on the board of Holy Trinity Episcopal Day School where she chaired the long range planning committee. She currently chairs the health and human services facet of her Links, Inc. chapter in Washington, DC. She lives in Arnold, MD with her husband, Rene and has two sons, Andre ‘14 and Rene, Jr., a sophomore at Villanova. Katherine Ostberg was born in Baltimore. She has a BA from Emory University, MA from Pratt Institute and
a MA from University of Virginia. She practiced architecture for ten years in NYC as a senior designer for Kohn Pedersen Fox; designing corporate skyscrapers in Hong Kong, London and San Francisco. She has had her own architectural practice since moving to Annapolis with her husband Preben over 20 years ago. Katherine is presently serving on UVA’s Architecture School Foundation board. She was a founding member of St. Anne’s Day School’s board and served on South River Federation’s board. Katherine and Preben have two children. Their sons attended Severn School. Erik ‘10 is a sophomore at SMU and Christian ‘11 is a freshman at UVA. Michael Peelish and his family moved to Davidsonville, from Colorado in 2000 due to employer relocation. He holds an engineering of mines and law degree from West Virginia University. He and his wife Lisa met in Colorado and their children, Natalie ’12 and Daniel ’16 have attended Severn since the beginning of Middle School. Michael recently resigned after 26 years from his job in the mining industry where he held numerous leadership positions responsible for safety, environmental, human resources, sourcing, sustainability, government affairs, and a natural gas business. His last position was executive VP and chief administrative officer for Alpha Natural Resources. His new career involves a start-up energy solutions business which involves taking innovative technologies and introducing them into the commercial marketplace through a unique business utility process.
SEVERN NEWS
Happy New Year from the Alumni Council As we approach the School’s 100th year anniversary in 2014, it is with pride and wonder that I consider the great legacy of thousands of alumni who have walked the halls of Severn School and gone on to be great leaders. At the close of 2012, the Alumni Board voted to expand our alumni council so that each decade of alumni will be represented on the executive council. We also decided to put together a young alumni council subcommittee to organize recreational and networking activities for young alums who graduated from Severn 15 years ago or less. Finally we are continuing our mission to improve and design opportunities for all of our alumni to network professionally. We are hard at work plan-
Denise Tray Rosson ‘78 and Mark Carroll ‘83 at DC Alumni Reception
ning a networking event for June 2013. If you haven’t noticed, Severn has launched a website re-design. I encourage you to visit www.severnschool.com and explore the new site. You can register for alumni events, view old yearbooks, make your Annual Fund gift and much more. We welcome any of you who would like to be involved with the Severn School Alumni Association. Please contact the Alumni Office if you are interested in learning more at info@severnschool.com. May all of you have a safe and prosperous new year. Mark Carroll ‘83 Alumni Association Chair
“Coach Pat” Introduces Middle School Football Team
Patrick Morrison, Severn School Facilities Manager and varsity football assistant coach, talks about the Middle School football team’s first season.
This past fall season Severn introduced a Middle School football program. There were many reasons for the addition of the new football team. The 7th and 8th grade students are required to play a fall sport in place of a physical education class. In addition to having soccer, field hockey, and cross country, the athletic department wanted to provide the option of football. Another reason for the addition of a Middle School football program was to prepare the student-athletes for Upper School football. Having a Middle School team allows the players to learn both the terminology and skills needed to be successful at the next level. The team went through its fair share of bumps and bruises to begin the season. For many of the players it was their first time playing organized football. The first
(L-R) Coaches in Back: Rich Hagen, Pat Morrison, Erin McCarthy; Back Row: Cameron Norman '17, Brad Dhillon '17, Matt Ewald '17, Simon Isper '18, Jimmy Diamondidis '18, DJ Bynum '18; Second Row: Darby Nelligan '17, Brian Lord '17, Luca Hagen '18, Brendan Gauthier '17, Duffy Burns '17, Cole Stirling '17, Jermaine Hall '18; Front Row: Ryan Barner '17, Alec Pikus '17, Cameron Spencer '18, Jimmy Riley '18, Jake Winter '18, Josh Stevenson '18, Cooper Emmons '18
practices were spent going over different formations and basic skills such as getting in a stance, where to line up, etc. The group of boys caught on very quickly and it did not take long for them to start running complex plays. We were competitive in nearly every game we played, and were able to defeat Friends 22-6 to earn our first win! More important than the wins and losses, the boys went from a group of 20 individuals to a team in the course of two months. Each player
brought something different and valuable to the team and were all needed for the team’s success. This year’s team laid the foundation for the Middle School football program. The future is bright for the team and it will not take long for them to start enjoying great success. Go Admirals! Coach Pat January 2013
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SEVERN NEWS
Middle School Highlights
Dr. Gray Smith shares an update on what’s new in Middle School academics and athletics.
H
ave you ever seen 63 hungry 7th graders trying to cook dinner for themselves and their classmates over a camp fire? I had the pleasure of watching this unfold at Tuckahoe Park this fall on the 7th grade camping trip. The kids had to start the campfires and prepare their food on their own. I cannot tell you how impressed I was as leaders were identified and came forward to take charge. The boys and girls made dinner happen that night from hot dogs all the way to s‘mores! The Tuckahoe trip gives students the opportunity to camp out in tents and enjoy a challenging ropes course, fishing, canoeing, miles of nature trails, games and, most importantly, bonding opportunities with their classmates and teachers. Our 8th graders went to Echo Hill Outdoor School for two nights where they camped out in open “cabins” and were led by the Echo Hill staff through a comprehensive outdoor and team-building program with their classmates and teachers. I spent the night at Tuckahoe and then drove over for the daily activities at Echo Hill where I experienced, for the first time, the giant swing. It took a dozen students pulling together on a rope and pulley system to hoist me 40 feet into the trees. While our camping trips are traditions, we tried some new experiences at the beginning of this year too. A summer grant from Severn provided an opportunity for the 8th grade teachers to collaborate on a lesson they titled: The School of Athens, a lesson based around the painting, The School of Athens, by Italian Renaissance artist, Raphael. The painting, long recognized as the embodiment of the classical spirit, depicts the greatest classical philosophers and theorists in various states of discussion with one another; Plato and Aristotle are the painting’s central figures. Over the two days prior to the Echo Hill trip, the students’ 8th grade teachers engaged them in discussions, activities, and seminars about the nature of knowledge, truth, and discovery, themes that will naturally resurface over the course of this year and throughout the students’ academic experiences at Severn. This year we decided to plan some alternative activities for the 6th graders as well. The 6th grade teachers led a day-long combination service-learning and team-
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8th grade dancers wowed the audience in December with their Jailhouse Rock number
building trip for the 6th grade to Ft. Smallwood Park, where they worked with the Anne Arundel County Parks & Recreation Department to clean up the beach and learn more about their role in keeping the watershed healthy. Afterwards, the class loaded the buses and headed to the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center for some more outdoor fun. Our 8th grade art students took a field trip to St. John’s College’s art gallery this fall where they admired works of art and did a hands-on workshop with St. John’s instructors and Ms. Leonard, our new art teacher. Mrs. Brannigan’s classes visited the Holocaust Museum in Washington, DC and Ms. Berkowitz’s students went to Baltimore to see Latin dancing and sample Central American cuisine. We have several upcoming off-campus opportunities in the next semester including an outdoor science trip for our 6th graders and an AIMS leadership day for student council and community life club members, among many others. Our 7th graders recently participated in Civility Day, led by Dean of Students Whitney Jamison, where students enjoyed a wide range of activities related to civility, community, and the school’s mission. We began the day with an exercise in teamwork, focus and patience, as the class linked arms and formed a circle, which was used to hold up each student as he or she leaned in or out and was supported by classmates. The circle was used to symbolize the strength of the class and the need for each member to be valued and supported by others. After our opening session, students
headed off on a scavenger hunt in their advisory groups. Along the way groups visited with AD Julian Domenech to talk about sportsmanship, recited the mission statement, and then went searching for words in the statement on the Alumni Walkway. They also scripted a civility rap and put on a paper bag skit, which involved planning and performing a skit using the items provided in the bag. This year we took on our most creative and unique social yet, when the student council organized a night at the movies for the whole Middle School. On opening night, we took 90 Middle School students to see The Hobbit. The movie was good, but the students were outstanding. Many other movie goers commented to me about how well-mannered and considerate our students were while sharing the theater. While it’s not a social, Mr. Yost’s Saturnalia celebration was another fun highlight of the fall. On Wednesday, December 19, Middle School students and families were treated to a variety of music, singing, and dancing by our performing arts students. Performance groups included the 6th, 7th, and 8th grade choruses, dancers, 6th grade Latin dance class, and the Middle School band. We were also treated to musical numbers by several 7th and 8th grade guitarists, piano players, and singers, including a beautiful duet sung by two 8th grade girls that we will hear again in the spring during our Middle School musical, “The Little Mermaid.” Our fall teams were very successful, and the boys’ maroon soccer team completed an undefeated season. Our boys and girls basketball teams are looking very strong and our one-year-old Middle School wrestling program continues to thrive. The Middle School faculty continues to work hard to make the experience the best it can be for each and every student. As a faculty, each year we pursue a form of professional development. This year, we are working on Critical Friends Groups and will be pursuing continued excellence in teaching from this platform throughout the year. Soon we will be traveling to Baltimore to partner with teachers from Bryn Mawr School as a way to expand the initiative’s scope and effectiveness. Gray Smith, Ed.D. Middle School Head
SEVERN NEWS
Upper School is “Moore United” Bea Fuller discusses the Upper School Read Day, where students read, “The Other Wes Moore” and “Outcast United.”
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s I walk through the halls on any given day in the Upper School I am impressed with the engagement of students and teachers: lively discussions in Ms. Sotiropoulos’ US history class, probing questions in Dr. Chang’s AP chemistry class, animated singing of Spanish songs with Ms. Megargel, wrestling to create effective experiments to solve a problem in Dr. Norledge’s honors physic class, college essay revisions in Mrs. Markhovsky and Mr. Kaberline’s offices, students speaking about The Power of One, or an economics theory, or math equations in Creeden Commons. The intellectual life is percolating here at Severn. In such a spirit, three years ago the Upper School Academic Committee launched a new community-wide intellectual and community building event called Upper School Read Day. Upper School students read the same book over the summer and then devote a day in early fall to explore the book from myriad aspects. The first year we read Longitude by Dava Sobel, and focused on the themes of problem solving, exploration and competition; the second year we read The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, and looked beyond the plot to examine literary and cultural influences on and of the novel while also honoring the spirit of competition by creating our own version of a hunger game. This year the student/faculty committee, after reading and discussing at least 20 books, narrowed the list and chose two books: The Other Wes Moore by Wes Moore and Outcast United by Warren St. John. These two works tackle such themes as economic injustice, poverty,
race, ethnicity, community, opportunity, and responsibility. Calling the day “Moore United Day,” we devoted a full school day delving into these themes. Teachers and students created and led about 20 different workshops ranging from a Congolese drum circle, studying the roots of rap, and a session watching and discussing The Wire, to a workshop on meaningful community service, planning a community center, to communicating without a common language. We brought in outside workshop speakers such as local police officers who described gang life in Maryland, and a Baltimore artist who builds community through art. We also were fortunate to bring in two major speakers: Kirsten Elstner, Executive Director of Vision Workshops (a National Geographic contractor) and Jill Pardini, Program Director from Soccer Without Borders in Baltimore. Mrs. Elstner also taught a wonderful photography workshop. In the survey after this year’s program students shared lessons they had gleaned. One student wrote, “Overall, I learned how fortunate I am to come from the background that I come from, but I also realized that I can really make an impact on the life of people who may come from a less fortunate family. I also learned the importance of split-second decisions and how they can alter the path of my life completely.” Another student shared, “I learned that we, as members of a certain type of society, may view some scenarios in ways that are skewed or overly critical because we do not take the time to fully understand all sides of the sit-
Photos on page: Students participate in Upper School Read Day
uation. I think that this day helped many of us to examine multiple perspectives before drawing conclusions.” Another student learned that “even here in Maryland there are homeless people and immigrants who need our help. I also learned that no matter what your race is, we all deserve to be treated equally.” Students and teachers took time to complete the survey to offer feedback to help plan ahead for next year’s Upper School Read. Stay tuned and if you have any suggestions for the Upper School read, please send me an email at b.fuller@severnschool. com. Bea Fuller Upper School Head
January 2013
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CONGRATULATIONS BOYS! Varsity Boys Soccer team celebrating after clinching the Chesapeake Boot for the third consecutive year
SPORTS UPDATES Girls Tennis
Coach: Cathy Officer
The team finished with their best record to date in the IAAM A Conference with a record of nine wins and two losses. At the team championships, Severn finished in 3rd place out of the 10 team conference IAAM Championships in late October at McDonogh. Leading the squad were senior co-captains Meg Gesner and Brigid Finlay - who provided invaluable commitment and energy to the team. The squad graduates senior starters Meg Gesner, Brigid Finlay, Veronica Pierce, Briggitta Zeender, Anna Taylor and Ruby Gilmore. Field Hockey
Coaches: Betz Wild & Jesse Larson; Assistant Coach: Stephanie Thomson
The team faced many challenges on the first day of practice having graduated nine seniors the year before, including both goalies. The team was well lead on and off the field by senior Jenny Davis ‘13 and her assistant captains Tori Graw ‘13 and Sam Kahan ‘13. There
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were several successful moments during the season including wins over St. Mary’s, St. Paul’s, Roland Park, and St. Mary’s Ryken. The team graduates four very talented seniors but the returning players are ready for next year.
cess with the team snapping St. Paul’s School’s two year conference unbeaten streak with a 2-1 victory, as well as defeating rival St. Mary’s 3-0 and 5-2 to retain the Chesapeake Boot for a 3rd straight season.
Cross Country
Girls Soccer
Coaches: Richard Zmuda & Amy Luca
This year’s Cross Country team ran farther than any other Cross Country team in the history of Severn School - and had 30 students finish the Baltimore Half Marathon. The season was measured through incredible hard work, non-stop personal bests, and a remarkable team chemistry that truly makes the team unique. Boys Soccer
Coaches: Michael McCarthy & Collin Welsh
With an outstanding season, the team finished 15-5-3 and were the MIAA B Conference runners up. This was the team’s first championship game appearance since 2006, falling short to a tough Boys’ Latin squad. The season was a suc-
Coaches: Adam Ritchie & Rebekah Munnikhuysen
This was the team’s first season in the IAAM A conference, the same conference as power house programs such as McDonogh, Spalding and John Carroll. The season started off slowly with a 1-5 record. However, two of those losses were in double OT. One being against the 4A public school state champs South River. After a little adjustment the girls went on a great streak, losing only three games the rest of the season and ending with an overall record of 10-8-1. We had two players, Morgan Kontor ‘14 and Delia Repasky ‘13 picked for the IAAM All conference team and Kelsey Ritter ‘14 was picked for 1st team All County.
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SEVERN ATHLETICS
Tricia Oxford '16
Girls Soccer team
Brigid Finlay '13
Samantha Kahan '13
Ben Priddy '13
Will Schaller '13
Football Coaches: Chris Kirchenheiter & John Bodley; Assistant Coaches: Nick Dewind, Pat Morrison & Patrick Morrison
Severn football wrapped up another successful year, finishing the regular season 7-3. The team then advanced to the playoffs, making it to the championship game against undefeated St. Frances. St. Frances had been averaging a state record 57 points per game and averaged an amazing 287 lbs on the front line, so we were a definite underdog. Severn surprised everyone by taking the lead 25-24 with seven minutes to go. Unfortunately, we could not hang on, as St. Frances scored with two minutes to go to win the game 30-25. Severn had five players named to the All County team and 11 players made the All Conference Team. In addition to the strong season by our varsity team; the JV team finished 11-0 and won the MIAA B Conference.
Miss the game? Watch season highlights on Severn School’s YouTube channel.
FALL 2012 PLAYERS & COACHES MVP AWARDS Girls Tennis
Players: Brigid Finlay '13
Field Hockey
Players: Sydney Zarriello '13
MVP: Jenny Davis '13
Boys Cross Country
Players: Jack Noble '13
MVP: Michael Byrns '14
Girls Cross Country
Players: Anne McGarvey '13
MVP: Jessica Thiergartner '13
Boys Soccer
Players: Kevin O'Malley '13
MVP: Zac Davliakos '14
Girls Soccer
Players: Carolyn Exarhakis '13
MVP: Delia Repasky '13
Football
Players: David Jones '13
MVP: Brett Bedard '13
MVP: Meg Gesner '13
CREEDEN HALL
TEEL ACADEMIC CENTER
OUTDOOR LEARNING CENTER SEVERN SCHOOL DEVELOPS BACK PROPERTY TO PROVIDE UNIQUE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT
Since its founding in 1914, Severn School has derived benefit and identity from the Severn River. As the School nears its first century of success and looks to the future, our campus offers an opportunity, if not a responsibility, to challenge its community to examine, to debate, and to discuss issues of ecological preservation as it relates to both the Severn River and the Chesapeake Bay. The possibilities on Severn’s campus are vast and varied for students and faculty to connect, learn, and value the natural world around them and through this connection appreciate their role in sustaining this vital resource. Through meaningful acquaintances and interactions one builds understanding and respect. It follows, then, for one to build respect for the earth, one must know and see value in it. Severn’s campus - especially the property between Severn’s academic buildings and the Severn River - offers the opportunity to foster such connections and provide ongoing meaningful interaction with the natural environment that is unique to our campus. 12
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BY KRISTYN KUHN
“The first moment I stepped on Severn’s campus, almost seven years ago now, I began to dream of the day we would use the property behind the academic buildings on Water Street in productive and educational ways.” - Headmaster Doug Lagarde
VISION FOR BACK PARCEL BECOMES REALITY MCCLEARY STUDENT CENTER
Now cleared of invasive non-native greenery such as bamboo and kudzu, the nearly three acre parcel that backs up to the Severn River, boasts a spectacular tiered ‘classroom,’ trails, a counsel ring, low ropes challenge course to promote team building, and an artist reflection area. The space is now known as the Outdoor Learning Center (OLC). In addition to removing insidious vegetation, indigenous plants have been introduced, rain gardens installed, and run-off management systems established. “Restoration of the site is good for the ecosystem,” commented Phil Lenham, Upper School science teacher and OLC Ranger. “Removing invasives means a healthier ecosystem for native species.” A team of faculty members have been trained as facilitators on the lowropes course and are eager to begin using the new facility. Many teachers are developing lessons to use this exciting redesigned space in their courses next year, and part of Lenham’s responsibilities as Ranger include helping connect this new outdoor space to all aspects of our curriculum. “The greatest advantage to the OLC is that it’s a place where the environment can be further integrated into what we do,” said Lenham. “This is the element that’s been missing from a holistic approach to education: fostering an understanding of and appreciation for nature.” The School looks forward to spring when students will begin using the space for class, clubs, and as teams.
Group of Severn teachers gather in the new counsel ring
To view several more photos, visit the Outdoor Learning Center page on our website: www.severnschool.com > programs January 2013
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ALUMNI NEWS
HOMECOMING 2012 Request to
Connect
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at Severn, we treasure our alums. WhethH ere er you attended the school when it was an
all-male prep school for the USNA or later, after it became a coed day school, we hope you’ll stop and see what’s new around campus. Feel free to come and visit a favorite teacher, watch a performance or cheer on our Admiral athletes. Our door is always open. We host a myriad of activities just for our alumni, including Alumni Weekend (May 10-11, 2013), career networking events, and regional alumni receptions across the country. If you can’t visit in person, use our website and publications to stay current with Severn. We’ve just designed a new Severn app that will make it easy for you to update your information and stay current with events we are hosting using your smart phones and/or iPads at severnschool.com/alumni. You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. The best way for us to keep up with you, is for you to keep up with us! Next year, we’ll be rolling out our 100th year, Centennial Celebration, and we want you to be part of it! So stay connected and be part of the fun. Go Admirals!
THE ALUMNI OFFICE
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DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS Mrs. Denise Tray Rosson '78
DIRECTOR OF ANNUAL & PLANNED GIVING Mrs. Mary Kernan Salsich
DATABASE MANAGER Ms. Alison Hall
LOCATION The Boone House, 116 Maple Avenue
PHONE 410.647.7700
E-MAIL info@severnschool.com
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Tad Sheehy ‘07, Brian Distad ‘07, Chase Loetz ‘07 Jason Rogers, Christine Heinson Rogers ‘02, Lauren Heinson ‘02 Brittany Schuh ‘08, Jayne Guthorn ‘14 Stacey Hendricks Manis ‘81, Heidi Hiltabidle, Michelle Manis ‘08 Rob Hoehn-Saric ‘10, Allie Foard ‘12, Drew Foard ‘10, Brett Crawford ‘10, Matt Treuth ‘10 Denise Tray Rosson ‘78, Jack Jones ‘49, Ben Lamon Trey Mullady ‘08, Eliza Guthorn ‘08, Brittany Schuh ‘08, Stephen Sexauer ‘08 Winners of the 2012 Chili Cook-Off
ALUMNI NEWS
Alumni Weekend May 10-11, 2013
Milestone REUNION
If you graduated in a year ending with a 3 or 8, make plans now to return to Severn to celebrate your milestone reunion at Alumni Weekend 2013! You won’t want to miss this party!
FRIDAY, MAY 10 12 noon: Athletic Hall of Fame Luncheon Edward St. John Athletic Facility. Free, but kindly register for this event 1:30 pm: Induction of Alumni into Severn’s Athletic Hall of Fame Edward St. John Athletic Facility. Free SATURDAY, MAY 11 11:00 am: Alumni Lax Games Lynch Field Alumni will take on the Varsity Admirals! Don the maroon and white and relive the days of old. Everyone is welcome to play. Free 11:30 to 3:30 pm: Alumni Family Picnic Joe's Field near the Athletic Center Enjoy live music by Zambezi, featuring '86 grads Lakin Ducker, Jeff Muller and Tom Bodor. Free flowing beverages and picnic fare along with a moon bounce, clown and fun activities for kids of all ages. Bring your parents! Bring the small fry! It’s all about family! Pre-registration: $17 adults; $7 children. Door: $20 adults; $10 children; Kids under 6 Free. 6:30-9:30 pm: Toast to Teel Alumni Reunion Class Dinner Boone House Lawn Come for a delicious Maryland inspired repast, open bar, and live music. You won’t believe how beautifully we will transform the Boone House lawn for this spectacular party. We’ll have specially decorated areas for each reunion class. Surrounding reunion classes are welcome and encouraged to attend. Bring photos and stories to share. Adults only please. Pre-registration: $30; Door: $35 ONLINE REGISTRATION OPENS IN FEBRUARY Go to www.severnschool.com or scan the QR Code below
REUNION CHAIRS We are searching for folks who graduated in the years ending with a 3 or 8 to help organize class reunions. Please contact the Alumni Office at info@severnschool.com to help out!
ALUMNI NEWS
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ANNAPOLIS AREA
More than 100 alumni and friends attended the Annapolis area alumni reception at the ANNAPOLIS YACHT CLUB, November 15. Guests from all generations mixed and mingled with each other and raised a glass to toast Distinguished Alumnus, Steve Schuh '78.
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Visit us on
to view more reception photos
ALUMNI NEWS Feeling nostalgic? Don’t miss Alumni Weekend, May 11, 2013. Details on p. 13
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WASHINGTON DC AREA
More than 60 alumni and friends attended the Washington DC alumni reception at the posh CAPITOL HILL CLUB, December 13. Alums from ‘46 to ‘06 attended the cocktail reception, where they heard Headmaster Doug Lagarde’s update on the state of Severn and initiatives moving forward.
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Richard Graham ‘63 and Jerry Glenn ‘63
*50th Reunion Chairs
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ALUMNI NEWS
The Rolland M. Teel Distinguished Alumni Award was created by the Severn School Alumni Association to distinguish those Severn graduates who make significant and meaningful contributions to society. Jointly sponsored by the Board of Trustees and the Severn School Alumni Association, this is the highest honor the School can bestow and recognizes those alumni who have demonstrated outstanding service to humanity, service to community, professional achievement, and/or service to Severn School. (L-R) Scott Schuh ‘83, son Robby ‘15, daughter Katie ‘17, Steve Schuh ‘78, Scott and Steve’s mother Joan, Scott’s wife Cheryl
Celebrating the 2012 Distinguished Alumnus, Honorable Steven R. Schuh '78 In October, Severn School Headmaster Doug Lagarde announced Maryland State Delegate Steve Schuh ‘78 as the recipient of the Rolland M. Teel 2012 Distinguished Alumni award. “With his business success and commitment to public service, Steve exemplifies the best of what a Distinguished Alum should be. I’m pleased he will be this year’s recipient,” Mr. Lagarde said. Mr. Schuh received the award at an all school assembly on Friday, November 16. Students, alumni, family, and guests were invited to attend this ceremony at which Severn also honored the 84 alumni who lost their lives in service to our country in Severn’s annual Veterans Day ceremony. As an alumnus from the class of 1978, a parent, and a trustee, Steve has had a significant impact upon Severn School. Through his service and largesse to Severn and the greater community at large, Steve truly embodies the qualities of what a Severn School Distinguished Alumnus should be. After his graduation from Severn, Del. Schuh continued his education at Dartmouth, Harvard and Johns Hopkins; he holds a bachelor of arts degree in economics and political science from Dartmouth and two masters degrees – an MBA and an MS in education from Harvard University and Johns Hopkins University, respectively. A businessman for 30 years, Del. Schuh 18
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currently is president of Schuh Advisory, Del. Schuh and his two children, Brita private equity firm that specializes in tany ’08 and George ’10, live on Gibson starting new businesses. He also repre- Island. sents District 31 in Anne Arundel County in the Maryland General Assembly. Previously he was a managing director at Alex Brown & Sons, an investment banking and brokerage firm, and a managing director at Credit Suisse, an international financial service firm. He served as a senior partner in the health care finance practices of both firms and was a nationally recognized expert in health care finance. A former member of Severn’s board of trustees for nine years, Del. Schuh also has been on the boards of the Chesapeake Region of the American Red Cross, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, the Doug Lagarde presents award to Steve Schuh ‘78 United Way of Central MD, Chesapeake Academy, the Chesapeake Arts Center and Eagle Cove School. In his role as a public servant, Steve has served as a state delegate in the Maryland General Assembly since 2006. His extensive economic, business and education background is put to good use in his roles as a member of the Economic Matters Committee and as chairman of the Education Subcommittee of the Anne Arundel County Delegation. He also is an appointed member of the Governor’s Commission on Small Business and the Joint Committee on the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area. He recently announced his intention to run for the position of Anne Arundel County Steve Schuh ‘78 Executive in 2014.
ALUMNI NEWS
Say Cheese! It’s Grandfriends’ Day! Photography by Laurie Buhrer, Kristyn Kuhn and Elizabeth Rosborg
THANK YOU FOR ATTENDING! SEE YOU NEXT YEAR
Honoring Severn’s Fallen Veterans The all-school Veterans Day assembly held in Edward St. John Athletic Center on November 16, 2012, honored Severn’s historic ties with the military and the ultimate sacrifice that so many of our alumni made in service to our country. The ceremony included a musical tribute, full Navy color guard, a student reading from our Memorial Roster (listed below) and commemoration of every Severn alumnus killed while in our nation’s service. As part of the event, Severn students file out to the salute of an outfitted naval commander, as the names of those alumni who bravely died are read. SPANISH CIVIL WAR Vernon R. Selby ’22 WORLD WAR II CDR James K. Averill ’23, USN ENS A. Warren Aylesworth ’33, USN LTJG Richard L. Barleon ’38, USN ENS Henry L. Becker ’39, USNR LT James M. Belden ’31, USNR LT Howard B. Berry ’34, USN ENS Eugene E. Bevan ’38, USN CDR Edward N. Blakely ’30, USN Nickerson Blood ’37, USA SGT Levan I. Bogardus ’37, USA LCDR Jacob W. Britt ’25, USN PFC Edward P. Brockmeyer ’37, USMC SF2 Robert M. Brockmeyer ’39, USNR Lt Walter C. Buaas ’36, USAAF SGT Seaton Buell ’30, USA LT Richard S. Bull, Jr. ’32, USN LCDR Renwick S. Calderhead ’23, USN Capt James O. Clark ’25, USAAF LTJG William R. Crutcher ’37, USNR LTJG James W. Danforth ’34, USN LTJG Lewis O. Davis ’33, USN
COX Walter C. Davis ’40, USN Lt Arthur C. Day ’40, USMC LT Edwin J. Denby, Jr. ’30, USN LCDR Greer A. Duncan ’32, USN Robert McNab Emery ’29, USA LT John L. Everett, Jr. ’28, USN LT William S. Farrel ’37, USN Maj Harry A. Gaver ’34, USMC LT Henry C. Gearing III ’30, USN LTJG Morris D. Gilmore, Jr. ’35, USN LTJG George F. Glueck ’35, USN LCDR Archibald W. Greenlee ’27, USN LCDR Robert P. Guiler III ’33, USN LCDR Henry Harrington, Jr. ’29, USMS LT Royal R. Ingersoll II ’30, USN MAJ Charles Jones ’35, USA LCDR Fraser S. Knight ’35, USN LTJG Raymond M. Krepps, Jr. ’38, USN LT David D. Laird ’38, USN LT Frank H. Lash, Jr. ’32, USCGR LCDR Leonard L. Lyons, Jr. ’16, USN LCDR Charles P. Mason, Jr. ’36, USN LCDR Lance E. Massey ’26, USN CDR Porter W. Maxwell ’32, USN
Navy Operational Support Center Color Guard Lt Robert Maxwell ’39, USAAF 2LT Laurence McCormick, Jr. ’40, USN LCDR John L. Mehlig ’33, USN LTC Montgomery C. Meigs ’36, USA CDR Keats E. Montross ’31, USN CDR Charles H. Ostrom ’26, USN LT Bethel V. Otter ’32, USN CDR Seymour D. Owens ’27, USN CDR Van Ostrand Perkins ’32, USN LT William L. Peterson, Jr. ’38, USN COL Milton H. Pressley ’25, USA LCDR Frederick W. Purdy ’29, USN SGT Henry B. Reinhart ’31, USA LCDR Eugene S. Sarsfield ’22, USN LCDR James S. Smith, Jr. ’20, USN LTJG James B. Sommers ’38, USN LT Ralph D. Spalding, Jr. ’35, USN COL Field H. Tapping ’26, USA CDR John G. Tennet III ’28, USN LCDR Paul H. Tobelman ’22, USN CDR Phillip H. Torrey, Jr. ’30, USN
LCDR Alfred B. Tucker III ’27, USN LCDR Alexander S. Wadsworth III ’35, USN MAJ Philip V.H. Weems, Jr. ’35, USMC CDR John E. Williams, Jr. ’41, USN 1LT William R. Williams ’19, USA LTJG William C. Williamson, Jr. ’37, USN LTJG John F. Woodruff ’33, USN KOREA MAJ Donald L. Driscoll ’37, USA LT Irad Blair Oxley ’39, USN CDR Denny P. Phillips ’36, USN LTJG Richard G. Sigg ’43, USN Lt Jerome C. Stuart ’46, USMC VIETNAM Capt Edward Browne ’54, USMC LCDR Fred H. Gates II ’50, USN PO James S. MacVickar, Jr. ’62, USN LCDR Carl Peterson ’54, USN Maj Donald E. Shay, Jr. ’63, USAF, MIA
Faculty members, Buckley & Klein, travel into the heart of the Middle East conflict. The STEPHENS F. MILLARD ‘51 GRANT is awarded to a faculty member(s) each year to pursue their academic interests during their summer vacation, to enhance and improve the quality of education for Severn students.
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Touring Hebron with a local E.S. principal Walking in Wadi Ara with Lydia Aisenberg Mural of Yasser Arafat on separation wall Landscape of Wadi Ara
5 On site of old Syrian bunker in the Golan Heights 6 Mural on the separation wall of Leila Khaled, fomer member of PFLP 7 Mural on separation wall in Bethlehem
8 Tel Aviv 9 Overlooking the Mediterranean from the Baha’i Gardens in Haifa 10 On Mt. Bental in the Golan Heights 11 The Old City in Jerusalem 12 Looking out over the Old City
13 An IDF soldier stands guard at the entrance of the Cave of the Patriarchs/Ibrahimi Mosque in Hebron. 14 Mural outside of a Palestinian refugee camp 15 Marc explores the network of fox holes in Syrian bunker.
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Orthodox Jew walks by the Old City’s Tower of David IDF soldiers pray at the Western Wall Reflecting at the Holocaust memorial at Kibbutz Mishmar Haemek with Lydia Aisenberg
Marc Buckley and Josh Klein sat down with The Bridge editor to share the inside scoop about their summer 2012 trip to Israel.
Meet Marc Buckley and Josh Klein: Marc Buckley joined the Severn faculty in 2002 and is the Class of 2014 Dean. Marc teaches Upper School History and is Advisor of the Political Action Club Josh Klein joined the Severn faculty in 2011. Josh teaches Upper School History and Upper School French. He is also the Model U.N. Advisor and Assistant Coach for Varsity Wrestling How and why did the idea for this trip come about? BUCKLEY: I
was teaching a book on the Israeli-Palestinian (I-P) conflict called The Lemon Tree, by Sandy Tolan and had returned two years ago from a trip to Istanbul. I realized that, while I had a better picture of Middle Eastern life in general, I needed to be better steeped in the I-P conflict and asked Josh if he could take me over to meet the friends he had made while living there a few years ago. He agreed. I wanted the trip to be very substantive and I wanted to meet people at the heart of the conflict. We both sent emails out to our contacts (I used to be a speech writer on Capitol Hill). The responses we got were incredible. We met people from every walk of life, from the former Minister of Justice for the Palestinian Authority and a Palestinian businessman to an Israeli woman who turned her childhood home into a pre-school for disadvantaged Arab kids. Moreover, we spent a considerable amount of time in the West Bank in Ramallah, Hebron, and Bethlehem. KLEIN: Marc
had been contemplating participating in a group trip to Israel with his friend, who happens to be a priest. He knew that I had lived and studied in Israel and he wanted to know my opinion regarding the itinerary of the trip. My take was that it looked to be more religiously-oriented than what I knew Marc would want to experience. Without missing a beat,
Buckley and Klein are with a Palestinian shop owner in Hebron
I then said, “Hey, I’m actually thinking about going back to Israel this summer to visit my friends. Want to come? I could introduce you to my Arab-Israeli host family, to my friends in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, and to my former professors.” It was like a simultaneous flashing of light bulbs over both of our heads. At that moment, we knew that we would have an adventure in store in just a few months. Our later receipt of the Millard Grant then motivated us to create an ambitious, but incredibly exciting itinerary - one that would be rich with interactions with folks from all walks of life. How did your experiences there, contrast with your perceptions before your trip? BUCKLEY: Before
the trip I saw the region from a distance, as most Americans do, and felt that the conflict was unsolvable. Moreover, I felt that the entire area was perpetually in conflict - because that is the sense you get from news stories. I also believed that the entire region was very religiously charged. After spending 10 days meeting with Arabs and Israelis I came to the conclusion that most of the everyday people want peace and are willing to make some concessions to ensure a better life. I also realized that religion plays much less of a role in many peoples’ everyday lives. Culturally and historically people are Jews or Palestinians but they do not wear their religion on their sleeve nor are many fervently practicing their respective religions. They are, at their essence, everyday people caught in a perpetually precarious situation. The Israelis and Palestinians we met wanted their kids’ lives to be better than their own and felt a detachment from their respective leaders. This, in my opinion, continues to be the case. For instance, the leaders of Hamas did not have the best interests of their people in mind when they decided recently to increase the numbers of missiles they fired into Israel. Instead,
they were looking forward to upcoming Palestinian elections and were trying to increase support for Hamas candidates. While this may seem counter intuitive, as Gaza was shelled by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), polling conducted after the cease fire went into affect demonstrates widespread support for Hamas’ actions as it is seen as having done something tangible to address the humiliation many Arabs feel. Moreover, the Prime Minister of Israel, who saw his popularity on the Israeli street decline, will likely be reelected in a month in a show of Israeli solidarity even though he has neglected the peace process for years. Irresponsible behavior on the part of elected leaders affects the people of the region in a more substantive way than it does here. KLEIN: Before
we flew out this past summer, I actually had a very clear understanding of Israeli culture and society. I had been to the country twice before: once in 2007 for a 10 day tour and a second time in 2009 for a six month intensive Arabic and Hebrew linguistic study with the Givat Haviva Institute. I have kept up with many of my Israeli friends and some of my former professors, so I had been able to maintain a feel for the pulse of the country. So, vis-a-vis experiencing Israel, I had a good idea of what to expect. It was in anticipating our tours of the West Bank, however, where I knew that I would be experiencing something completely new. Quite honestly, I was initially anxious (especially being an American Jew) to spend time within the Palestinian population in the West Bank. I had lived in an Israeli-Arab town before, but traveling around the Palestinian Territories would be a whole new world. My fears, thankfully, were immediately allayed upon my first few interactions with folks on the ground. Marc and I had great laughs and fascinating discussions with a wide variety of Palestinians from an elementary school principal in Hebron to a Christian shop keeper in Bethlehem. January 2013
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What experience impacted you the most while there? BUCKLEY: Our
trip to Hebron had an enormous impact on me. This city that houses the grave of Abraham became amazingly religiously charged when an American Jew, Baruch Goldstien, went into the Cave of the Patriarchs in late February 1994 and gunned down 29 Arabs praying in the mosque. The IDF moved in and began protecting the American Jewish settlement there from the Arabs, instead of the other way around. As a result, checkpoints were erected and Arabs were restricted from large parts of the old city, where much of the commercial activity used to take place. Walking around with our Arab host, we couldn’t help feeling how tense the situation was there between the Arabs and the American transplants. Arabs were not allowed to have locks on their apartment doors in the old city so that the IDF could storm into their homes at a moment’s notice. Kids were rummaging through dumpsters and begging for money. This served as a clear example of why there are ill feelings between Israelis and Palestinians. Every day offered some sort of an intense emotional, intellectual, spiritual, or comedic experience (the latter seemed to occur quite often, especially given both Marc’s sense of humor and mine). Honestly, every person with whom we interacted opened my eyes to a brand new perspective. Two moments which highlighted both emotional highs and lows were touring the old city of Hebron in the West Bank and chatting with my good friend and former professor, Lydia Aisenberg of Kibbutz Mishmar Haemek. Hebron was a particularly trying experience because we literally toured a city divided. Due to its charged religious atmosphere and the heavy presence of the military, it is a city unlike any other in both the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. For me, it was an intellectually and emotionally exhausting moment. For an outsider, it becomes apparent right away that many parts of town are partitioned for either Palestinian residents or for Jewish settlers. We passed through metal detectors, concrete jersey barriers, barbed wire fencing, KLEIN :
and vigilant soldiers carrying M-16s who were no older than 20 years old. Our tour guide, Mat’ah, a local Palestinian elementary school principal, took us all around the city. She gave us a personal and emotional perspective of Hebron. In addition to walking the narrow passageways of the marketplace and gazing at the shuttered storefronts facing the partitioned streets, we spent time with some local Palestinian residents. We sat for at least two hours sipping strong shots of black coffee with one of Mat’ah’s friends, a local shop owner who was selling Hebron tourist trinkets (shown on p.21). We also chatted it up with Palestinian teenagers and some elder market-goers. Needless to say, we learned quite a lot about the city and the difficulty of life under tight military regulations. While I was most anxious of a confrontation with the Jewish settlers of Hebron (likely because of my disapproval of their actions and political views), looking back, I do regret not seeking out a conversation with them. The second experience which deeply impacted me was our time spent with Lydia Aisenberg while touring Kibbutz Mishmar Haemek. Lydia is one of my former professors who immigrated to Israel in the early 1960s from Wales. She is now in her late 60s, is as sharp as a tack and is as loving and compassionate as she is funny. Her personal story is both heartwrenching and inspiring. She works with Givat Haviva and with the local ArabIsraeli population on issues of social justice and equality. While Lydia peppered us with fantastically witty quips that even threw Marc for a loop, she recounted for us the story of the settlement of Kibbutz Mishmar Haemek and of her own journey to Israel from a region that was rife with anti-semitism. I found myself identifying with her story on an incredibly personal level. In addition to touring the beautiful gardens, houses, and agricultural fields of the kibbutz, we also spent a quiet, reflective moment at Mishmar Haemek’s Holocaust Memorial - this tree-shaded refuge of quiet and peace was particularly moving for me. The memorial itself was finished in 1946, and fascinating on yet another level: one can still see the bullet pockmarks from Israel’s War for Independence (1949) which scar the stonework.
Overlooking Umm al-fahm with Khabeer & Wagih Sedawi
Looking back, what’s one of your favorite stories from the trip? The third day of the trip brought us to Bethlehem on the West Bank. We traveled through the Jerusalem checkpoint and found ourselves on the Palestinian side of the separation barrier. The artwork painted by Palestinians was powerful and depicted various themes including a feeling of a loss of freedom, a willingness to fight and a desire for peace. I had seen a spot on 60 Minutes a few months earlier about a Christian family in Bethlehem that found their house surrounded on three sides by the wall, yet they refused to move. It was a moving piece and when I heard that we were going to Bethlehem I wanted to meet them but had no way of knowing where they lived. Josh walked down what seemed to be a dead end and yelled to me; he had found the house. I walked into Claire Anastas’ gift shop and looker her right in the eyes. She finally smiled and said, “I’m the woman from the 60 Minutes program.” I said, “I know.” We exchanged pleasantries and I felt as if I had known this person who found herself on the wrong side of a geopolitical divide my entire life. She told me about coming home and seeing her house surrounded and the impact it had on her gift shop business. She informed me that she was coming to the States and wanted to take her teenage son with her to get him out of the West Bank for a while but that he needed a place to go to school in order BUCKLEY:
THE ITINERARY: JUNE 19
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Jerusalem (Old City), Ein Kerem, Israel: Tour of Old City of Jerusalem (Muslim, Jewish, Christian, and Armenian Quarters); dinner with Dalia Landau of The Lemon Tree in Ein Kerem
Ramallah, West Bank; Jerusalem (Old City), Israel: Met with former Minister of Justice for the Palestinian Authority and with former President of Birzeit University; tour of holy sites in Jerusalem
South Hebron Hills, West Bank; West Jerusalem, Israel: Tour with “Breaking the Silence” (including Israeli settlements, Palestinian outpost of Susya, and Israeli military checkpoints in the South Hebron Hills); visit with recent American-Israeli immigrant
Jerusalem, Israel: Yad Vashem Holocaust Museum; Mahane Yehuda Market; tour of West Jerusalem; Western Wall on the eve of Shabbat; Shabbat dinner with Dalia Landau
Bethlehem, Hebron, Aida Palestinian Refugee Camp, West Bank: Tours with former Seeds of Peace volunteer and Palestinian elementary school principal
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to secure a passport. She was working with school placement agencies online when I walked in. I offered to help and envisioned a conversation with Severn’s admissions officers about having him attend Severn for a semester. He would live in my house with my four boys and see his mother on the weekends in D.C. She began crying and told me that God meant for us to meet. Then it hit me: I would have to tell my wife that I just offered to parent someone else’s kid for half a year. ‘Oh what the hell,’ I thought, ‘If we can handle four we can handle five. She’ll love it!’ Claire had become a Palestinian member of my Irish Catholic family and I was going to make it possible for her kid to live in the US for six months. Don’t think it wasn’t lost on me that he’d be sitting in my classes sharing his experiences. KLEIN: There were so many great moments, but one in particular resulted in us staying in a beautiful, two-floored, beach front apartment in Tel Aviv. While enjoying a wonderful Shabbat dinner in Jerusalem with Dalia Landau (of the book, “The Lemon Tree”) and her two American friends, Marc and I mentioned that we would next be traveling to Tel Aviv. Without hesitation, Dalia’s friends asked if we might want to stay in their Tel Aviv apartment while they were traveling in the south of Israel. What a generous offer...and how could we have turned it down?! I clearly remember both of our dumbstruck expressions when we finally rolled our suitcases up to this fantastic apartment. If we didn’t say, “No way!” to each other, then our faces certainly did. While the apartment was wonderful and also a stone’s throw away from the Mediterranean, what struck us as so genuinely refreshing and exciting was that these folks were so happy to share with us. Needless to say, we certainly enjoyed our stay in Tel Aviv (which happens to be my favorite beach city in the world). For the Travel Channel enthusiasts, what was your favorite Anthony Bourdain foodie experience? For days we ate good, but pricy, street food in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. Our kibbutz host family, took us to a restaurant on the side of the road that BUCKLEY:
looked as if it were attached to a gas station. When the food came out, neither of us could believe our eyes: hummus, falafel, and baba ganoush that was so fresh and so delicious! The lamb kabobs were to die for: the meat was perfectly cooked and melted in your mouth. We ate a mountain of food and were shocked when the bill amounted to $5 a person. That’s the Middle East for you. KLEIN :
That would definitely be the afternoon when I ate the best hummus of my life. The venue was Fattoush, a funky, chic, artsy Lebanese/Israeli restaurant which overlooks the Mediterranean harbor of Haifa. Marc, Khabeer (my Arab-Israeli host brother from my Arabic study program), and I had stumbled upon the place while strolling up Sderot Ben Gurion. The dish of which I found myself in absolute awe was a large serving of fresh hummus topped with roasted veal meat along side of warm pita. While some might retort, “it was just hummus;” for me, it was the epitome of Middle Eastern culinary decadence. How are you integrating the trip into your classrooms? My seniors are now considering the regional conflict between Israel and its neighbors. Specifically, they are learning about Hezbollah’s ideology and comparing it to Hamas’. In lock step with this, I am giving them an exposure to the history of Zionism and to the complexities of modern Israeli and Palestinian societies as told through the stories recounted to us by people we met during our trip as well as our own experiences. I think it is giving the kids insight into the region that few Americans have and is allowing them to better understand the region. Josh and I are also giving a series of lectures to the entire Upper School, the first of which was a primer on the recent Hamas/IDF skirmish. BUCKLEY:
KLEIN: Aside
from our presenting to the entire Upper School community in three separate assemblies, I have begun to incorporate our travels into my 9th grade Honors World Civilizations course. Every few weeks, we have sessions where we discuss the modern Middle East, includ-
ing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the civil war in Syria, and the Egyptian revolution. In addition, I have lectured and led quite a few discussions on the same topics for Severn’s Model United Nations club. The personal stories (not just my own, but also of my Israeli friends, and of the acquaintances whom Marc and I met) have proven invaluable - both for content and for capturing the students’ attention. Mr. Klein: How was your trip to north-central Israel in 2009 different from your trip with Mr. Buckley? Prior to my trip with Marc, I spent six months in 2009 living in Wadi Ara (northcentral Israel), where I was participating in an intensive Arabic study. This summer’s trip was particularly special and educational for me because I was able to explore parts of the West Bank. Never before had I been to the Palestinian Territories and, admittedly as an American Jew and strong supporter of Israel, I was a bit anxious to be traveling into what some of my friends had described as dangerous territory (and, at times like the two Intifadas, it has been outright dangerous for Israelis and for Jews). There were certainly moments when I felt slight apprehension - especially in Hebron. However, the conversations which we had with Palestinians from all walks of life - from Ramallah and Bethlehem to Hebron and the South Hebron Hills - were ever so reaffirming of the common interests that we all share: to live peacefully with one’s neighbor and to be able to provide for one’s family.
STEPHENS F. MILLARD '51 FACULTY TRAVEL GRANT Established in 1997, the Millard Faculty Travel Grant provides professional development for Severn faculty members. The grants are awarded to those applicants that either contribute significantly to a faculty member’s professional growth in his/her areas of service to the school, or contribute to the development of the curriculum and programs of the school. In the past the Millard Grants have been directed toward Earth Watch programs, but now they can be used for a wide range of professional development opportunities. Two grants, each ranging from $3,000 to $4,000, are awarded each year. To date, the Grant has been awarded to over 30 faculty members. The School is grateful to Steve Millard '51.
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JUNE 25
JUNE 26
JUNE 27
JUNE 28
Tel Aviv, Israel: Meeting with USAID worker, Israeli journalists, and an Israeli human rights attorney, walking tour of modern city of Tel Aviv, coffee with young Israeli woman recently out of the army, dinner with young professional Israeli couple
Kibbutz Barkai, Wadi Ara, Israel: Visits with friends of Mr. Klein – at Kibbutz Barkai and in the Arab-Israeli village of Ar’ara
Golan Heights, Tzfat, Jezreel Valley, Israel: Driving and walking tours of the north
Wadi Ara, Ar’ara, Barta’a, Givat Haviva, Caesarea, Israel: Meetings with Mr. Klein’s Israeli-Arab host family and with former professors, tour of separation fence in Wadi Ara with Lydia Aisenberg of Givat Haviva Institute
Taibe, Kibbutz Mishmar Haemek, Umm Al-Faham, Israel: Tour of Israeli-Arab town of Taibe with former Professor Fawaz Mansour, tour of Kibbutz Mishmar Haemek with Lydia Aisenberg, dinner in IsraeliArab town of Umm Al-Faham
JUNE 29 Haifa, Kibbutz Barkai, Israel: Tour of Haifa with Mr. Klein’s Arab-Israeli host-brother, Khabeer Sedawe, Shabbat dinner at Kibbutz January 2013 23 Barkai
40 YEARS OF WOMEN BY JAMES W. DONNELLY
NECESSARY CHANGE
Mr. Teel founded Severn as a boarding school community for students to enjoy an environment of family living and supervised instruction to pass the United States Naval Academy’s entrance exams. The school was very successful; “in the first four years not one student failed to pass.” One of the first adjustments came in 1920 when the Naval Academy decided that a four year high school diploma was required along with an applicant’s showing satisfactory performance on its own entrance examinations. Severn welcomed the challenge of structuring its curriculum to accommodate that requirement, thereby opening its graduates “for admission to any colleges and universities in the nation while retaining its ties to the Naval Academy.” Another adjustment came with the addition of a 7th and 8th grade Middle School. This new focus was supported by the growth in the county population, encouraged by the building of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, the Severn River Bridge, and the John Hanson Hwy (Rt. 50), which encouraged area growth. Between 1950 and 1973 Anne Arundel County’s population almost tripled to more than 300,000.
1970’s students sit in front of Teel Hall.
“Severn Goes Coed! The ‘male bastion’ is giving way to ‘the weaker sex!’” For the readers of the local papers, especially for the Baltimore private school community, this was surprising news. The boys’ boarding/day school that prided itself on preparing young men for the Naval Academy, was to add girls. That announcement was made January 21, 1971.
SEVERN SCHOOL’S FUTURE
In considering the future of the school in 1971, dropping the school’s boarding program was regarded as a possible inevitability but was not an option for implementation at this point. The charges for boarders and day school lunches were regarded as “profit centers” by the treasurer. On the other hand, it is hard to know how the overall faculty supervision at night and on weekends, were “billed” as costs, to say nothing of the faculty meals that were eaten, with or without approval. And, after all, boarders were a major part of the school’s history. Mr. Teel had founded the school to accommodate students who were boarding “out” in the Annapolis area, To drop the boarding di-
James W. Donnelly stepped down as Headmaster in 1984, after 12 years at Severn School. He and his wife, Sarah, remained in the community – she as executive director of the Association of Independent Maryland Schools , and then, later, he as the manager of his own print/copy shop, Acorn Inkworks, in Annapolis, for which he was recognized, in 1996, as “Entrepreneur of the Year.” He and his wife both retired in 1999 to travel. Next year they will be moving to a retirement community in the Boston area to be closer to their two sons, Whitney ‘80 and Brooks ’82. 24 24
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vision was to sever were unhappy with local “The other possible the school’s tie to private schools, much less means to increase enrollits heritage and the having to commute to Balgenerations of boys timore for alternatives for ment (and revenue) was for whom boarding their daughters. However, to expand the population at Severn, and the the Board also received a base from which one personal nurture number of objections to they experienced the idea: concerns were draws students – namely, through the support that introducing girls enroll girls.” of the faculty and would distract the boys their wives, was an from the benefit of an all integral part of their male education; some scholastic experience at the school. even suggested that they would withdraw The other possible means to increase en- their son if girls were admitted. Others just rollment (and revenue) was to expand the wondered why the school would make population base from which one draws stu- such a step when there was a perfectly dents – namely, enroll girls. The Board of good girls’ school already in the commuManagers was not hasty as it considered co- nity, namely, the Wroxeter–on-the-Severn education. There were several basic issues: School, in Rugby Hall. What would the admission of girls mean The final vote by the Board of Managfor boys and the value of their experience ers to expand the school’s population to as a boys’ school - a male academic com- become a more broadly based community munity committed to the intellectual, phys- school by enrolling girls was approved ical, personal, and moral development of by a three to one margin. When called at a boy in his growth to manhood. Over the his home, Mr. Rolland Teel, the school’s years Severn had expanded and upgraded founder, was “not enthusiastic,” but he graits curriculum “to meet the requirements ciously supported the Board’s decision. In for admission to the better liberal arts and the announcement made by Dr. Hall and technical schools, while at the same time Admiral Ward on behalf of the Board of training students for entrance to the service Managers on January 21, 1971, was the asacademies.” It was a scholastic program di- surance to the parents and the community rected towards “the development of analyt- that Severn School was following the lead ical and exacting minds, “ as the Headmas- of “nearly all American colleges and most ter described the school, in reporting on the great prep schools,” and the United States achievements of the 68 boys graduating in Naval Academy was soon to follow. the class of 1970, 86% of whom went on to four year colleges. On the other side, the executive comTHE FIRST YEAR OF WOMEN mittee of the Board was convinced that the quality of applicants for the school would The 1971-1972 school year opened with an be improved if girls were added and noted: enrollment of 361 students, 304 boys (17 of “Experience [at many private schools and whom were boarders) and 57 girls (reprecolleges] reveals that numbers and abili- senting 16% of the student population). ties of applicants are raised when schools That first year three new women were accept girls.” One forward-looking Board added to the faculty (in French, Physical member went on to comment that “equality Education/Health, and Art) to bring the toof the sexes is coming and coming soon and tal number of women on the faculty to six. it is appropriate to educate boys and girls With a total number of teachers of 36 the on the basis of equality.” He was anticipat- faculty-student ratio was 1:14, well within ing Title IX of the Education Amendments the norms set by Mr. Teel when he founded of 1972. the school, and well within the guidelines The Board solicited opinions from the for private schools even today. It is approparents, who were asked if Severn admit- priate to note that as the year opened the ted girls, would they consider having their newly designated Board of Trustees had daughters apply. Some were very sup- added a woman to their Board, while at the portive, to such an extent that by the end same time including at their regular meetof the fall of 1970 the school had over 30 ings two representatives from The Mother’s unsolicited applications. Some of these Club, along with those from The Parents were from parents who decried the double Association and The Athletic Association shifts planned at the local high school as “to further facilitate coordination.” it adapted to construction needs. Others In 1981, just ten years after Severn School
first admitted girls, the school opened with an enrollment of 511 students; 278 boys and 233 girls, who represented 46% of the student population. This enrollment total constituted an increase of 40% over the year when girls were first admitted. As this first ten years of coeducation was ending the school was embarking on its first “coeducational day school” building project, a new three-story academic building, providing art studios, a faculty lounge, a state-of –theart library on the second floor, and four science classroom/labs on the third floor, all funded by the capital campaign initiated by the Board three years earlier. At the same time the School completed its first Middle States Association accreditation review since becoming a coeducational day school. The first paragraph of the commentary in that report, issued in March of 1984, stated: “The Severn students are the school’s greatest asset. They are intelligent, courteous, perceptive young people who demonstrate a high degree of pride and interest in the total learning environment.” With the construction of the new facilities that Severn School has witnessed these last 20 years, it is hard to imagine the struggle that the school went through as it redefined itself to weather the financial difficulties that threatened its survival 40 years ago. Now the school boasts an enrollment of 595 students supported by a faculty of 81 teachers (50 of whom are women). There
“...admitting girls was a “wise” decision, especially as it contributed to a better appreciation of the benefits girls and boys derive from being educated together, showing how inappropriate is the myth of “the weaker sex.” are now nine women on the 25 member Board of Trustees. The school’s current endowment is $8.6 million. The school spends $1.9 million for need-based financial aid. These are figures unimaginable 40 years ago. And the concern expressed by that first year girl has been answered…admitting girls was a “wise” decision, especially as it contributed to a better appreciation of the benefits girls and boys derive from being educated together, showing how inappropriate is the myth of “the weaker sex.”
Read the full article online at www.severnschool.com > about us January 2013
25
CLASS NOTES
IN MEMORIAM
It is with sorrow that we note the passing of these Severn alumni & friends.
Walter P. Smith ‘40, 8/19/2012 (see obituary on p.27) William “Dick” Flower ‘41, 9/25/2012 (see obituary on p.27) Rowe P. Moore ‘43, 9/23/2012 (see obituary on p.27) Richard Burrow Jr. ‘45, 4/27/2012 (see obituary on p.27) John “Jack” Hamilton ‘47, 9/17/2012 (see obituary on p.28) Thomas “Tom” R. Strange ‘51, 3/12/2012 (see obituary on p.28) Robert Liskey ‘60, 5/9/2012 Gordon “Gordo” Jayne ‘78, 10/4/2012 (see note on p.29) Andrew R. Sosnowski ‘78, 12/12/2011 (see note on p.30) Jeffrey “Jeff” N. Haskins ‘98, 7/14/2012 (see obituary on p.31) Mrs. Ralph Darden Grandmother of Catherine ‘11 and Anna Darden ‘14 Nancy Elder (3/18/2012) Grandmother of Boo Devanny ‘13 Rebecca Fitzsimmons (8/4/2012) Wife of Mark Fitzsimmons ‘76 Florence Greenfield (2/22/2012) Mother of Bill Greenfield ‘70, Grandmother of Aaron Greenfield ‘14, Julie Katcef ‘85, Staci Foster ‘86, Great Grandmother of Jenna Maseritz ‘12 and Haley Foster ‘19 Chris Hutchinson (3/26/2012) Grandfather of Christen Sweeny ‘86 and Todd Hutchinson ‘85 Kay Jones (11/20/12) Mother of Wendy Jones Skeggs ‘83 Shirley Jones (10/11/2012) Grandmother of Blake ‘95 and Brady Nolan ‘01 Romaine Kossa (7/27/2010) Grandmother of Andrew ‘12 and Bobby DeStefano ‘12 June LaMalva (12/5/2010) Grandmother of Lexi Kierstead ‘14 Robert McNitt, USN (Ret.) (8/12/2012) Father of Jamie McNitt ‘74 and Hope Heffelfinger ‘78 Marjorie Meader (4/20/2011) Grandmother of Catherine ‘11 and Anna Darden ‘14 Howard Miniter (10/25/2011) Father of Beverly Veit ‘79, Jenienne Fagan ‘82, Grandfather of Allison Veit ‘15 and Tara Fagan ‘16 Sharon Lund Pailthorp (7/12/2012) Mother of Ann ‘97 and Ingrid Pailthorp ‘02 Richard Pierce (4/2012) Grandfather of Veronica Pierce ‘13 Frances Ruppert Grandmother of Faith Ruppert ‘14 Anne McKay Simmons (2/1/2012) Mother of the late William Simmons ‘71, Grandmother of Tom Simmons ‘01, Anne Schneider ‘00, Katie ’02 & Alexandra Fitzgerald ‘04 Joseph Urbanski (12/15/2011) Grandfather of Maddie ‘15 and Tori Graw ‘13 Marriott Winchester, Sr. (2/7/2011) Grandfather of Ryan Winchester ‘17 26
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CLASS NOTES 40
Walter Prescott Smith died August 19, 2012. He was born in Baltimore on September 21, 1921. Walter was the son of Captain Alan P. Smith, USNR and Iris A. Smith. He grew up in Baltimore and Annapolis. He was an active Boy Scout and attended the first United States Jamboree in 1937 in Washington, DC. Walter attended Severn and the University of Virginia until he left to volunteer for military service in WWII. He was with the 82nd Airborne Engineers as a water engineer and glider rider. He served in New Guinea from Port Moresby to the northern tip. He was in two beach-head landings at Leyte and Mindanao in the Philippines. He became a casualty in Okinawa. On returning home, he attended the University of Miami in Florida where he married Alice Carr. Walter and Alice moved to the family farm in Maryland where they started their family of three children and lived for 14 years. The couple moved back to Miami where Walter operated his own wooden sailboat building and repair business. He enjoyed camping, sailing, gardening and storytelling. In his younger years he traveled extensively to Europe, the Caribbean, and every state of the US except two. In his later years of retirement, Walter camped and volunteered for the Florida Park Service in environmental restoration, and construction projects for 10 years. In 1981, Walter retired to Asheville, North Carolina. He was a devoted member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church. Walter is survived by his wife Alice of 64 years, three children and a grandchild. Walter P. Smith ‘40
41
William Richard “Dick” Flower passed Sept. 25, 2012, at the Country Club Retirement Center in Ashtabula, OH. He was 91. Dick had been a lifelong Ashtabula resident. A 1939 graduate of Ashtabula High School, he attended Severn in 1940. His career started with Great Lakes Engineering Works in the ship yard from 1941 to 1942 and then he joined the U.S. Coast Guard and served from 1942 to 1946 before being honorably discharged. Next, he undertook the challenge of operating his own business, W. H. Flower Company, which he successfully owned and operated until 1975. Not ready to retire, he continued working until 1988. A long-time member
of St. Peters Episcopal Church, he served as Warden and on the Vestry. He was also a 67-year member of the BPO Elks #208, where he was active on the building committee and was inducted into the initial class of the Ashtabula Elks Hall of Fame; a member of the Junior Chamber of Commerce (Jaycees) where he served as president, past president and chairman of the board for the Ashtabula Area Chamber of Commerce, Ashtabula County Home Builders Association, Chairman of the Ashtabula Area Development Association; and a coordinator and coach for the Ashtabula County William “Dick” Flower ‘41 Special Olympics where he and his wife, were their son, Jim’s biggest fans. Dick also was active in Indian Guides and was a Boy Scouts leader. His survivors include his wife, Grace Louise whom he married August 2, 1947, five children and 14 grandchildren.
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Join us May 11, 2013 for your 70 year Reunion!
Dr. Rowe P. Moore, 86, passed away peacefully at home in Salinas, CA September 23, 2012, after a short illness. His wife of 35 years, Margaret (Herrera) Moore; daughters, Roanne, Jana and son-in-law, Randy, were by his side. Rowe was born in a quaint victorian village in Glyndon, Maryland. He was delivered by his grandfather, Dr. Thomas Rowe Moore. His great grandfather, Dr. Ben Price was also a physician. Rowe joined the Army Air Force at the age of 18 and became a radio operator on a B-29 Bomber and was promoted to sergeant from 1943 to 1946. He attended Temple Medical School where he obtained his medical doctorate in 1953. He was on the medical staff at General Hospital of Monterey CA. He
Rowe P. Moore ‘43
Find us on Facebook and Twitter and stay connected all year! was a member of Monterey County Medical Society, CMA, A.M.A. In addition to his running his private practice Rowe was on the staff of Memorial Hospital from 1953 until he retired in 2005. Rowe loved being active. His passion was sports. He enjoyed lacrosse, wrestling, tennis and was captain of the swim team at Severn School. He enjoyed gardening, especially his citrus trees. Rowe is survived by his loving wife, Margaret; four children and 10 grandchildren. notes to: Karl “Chris” 44 Send Christoph
radmx@msn.com
J. Burrow, Jr., 84, retired 45 Richard owner and operator of R.J. Burrow
Dept. Store, died April 27 in Milan, TN. He graduated from Severn School in 1945 and went on to attend Vanderbilt University. He is past Commander of the Milan American Legion, former member of the Milan Lions Club, member of the Milan VFW Post #4780, served on the board of the City of Milan Hospital, served on the board of directors of the First American Bank, served as a City of Milan Alderman from January 1963 through December of 1996 and City of Milan Treasurer from January 1968 thru December 1996. Mr. Burrow, the husband of Ruth Simpson Burrow, also leaves a son, four grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
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Send Notes to: Hugh “Dick” Mclean PO Box 1735 Borrego Springs, CA 92004
Buzz Hall ‘47 recently received a nice note from Dick Crawford. It said: “The photo of you and your daughter in the recent Severn mag should be titled, ‘Buzz Hall finds fountain of youth in Sherwood Forest.’ Honestly, you look even younger than when I last saw you in 1950 at the Navy-Maryland game when you jammed a goal past me (Navy prevailed, so no matter). I graduated from Severn in 1946, but then returned in the fall with the class of ‘47, then left in December and enlisted in the Navy. Faced with four years of enlisted time, I changed from an indifferent student to a motivated one and entered the Academy with the class of 1951. So, many of Severn ‘46 as well as ‘47 became my classmates again. I spent 20 years in the Navy, primarily submarines including 3 years of January 2013
27
CLASS NOTES
postgraduate study at Webb Institute of Naval Architecture on Long Island where I met my wife of 54 years (we were married in Hawaii in 1958). We have four daughters and five grandchildren. On first retiring from the Navy, I took a position with Lockheed Shipbuilding in Seattle and have lived on Mercer Island for over 40 years. Lockheed closed after my 16th year and I took my newly minted CPA to Sundstrand as an auditor. So, three retirements and, now, the good life. I remember with fondness our days at Severn together playing football and lacrosse (the game has changed from our day, the teams score as many goals in one game as we did in a season) and in Annapolis just making a nuisance of ourselves and goofing off. Life was so simple then.”
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Send notes to: Buzz Hall blairhall@aol.com
Commander John Willis Hamilton, US Navy (Ret.), died on September 17, 2012, of respiratory failure after a long fight with heart disease at his home in Springfield, Virginia. He was interred in the Arlington National Cemetery Columbarium. CDR Hamilton was born on July 31, 1928, in Warren, PA, where he remained until he graduated from Warren High School in 1946 and Severn School in 1947. He graduated from the Naval Academy in 1951 and flight training in 1953, when he earned his wings. During his 22-year career in the U.S. Navy, he was assigned to several ships and flight squadrons. CDR Hamilton is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Suzanne Ward Berry; three children and eight grandchildren.
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Join us May 11, 2013 for your 65 year Reunion! Send notes to: Bill Fisher Wgf50929@yahoo.com
51
Dr. Tom Strange passed away Monday, March 12, 2012, at Providence Hospital in Anchorage, AK, from injuries sustained in a fall. He was born in 1931, in Annapolis, to Robert Thornton Strange Sr. and Rose Margaret Nickerson Strange. He was a vibrant 80 year old who touched the lives of all he met. Tom is survived by his wife, Nelda Strange of Anchorage and three children. Dr. Tom was blessed with 10 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Tom grew up in Maryland serving as an acolyte at St. Anne’s Episcopal Church and graduated from Severn School in 1951. He joined the U.S. Air Force in 1951 and 28
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was honorably discharged in 1972 after serving 21 years. He met his wife while in the service and they were married in 1956, moving to Anchorage in 1968. After retiring from the Air Force, Tom was hired by the municipalTom Strange ‘48 ity of Anchorage as an accountant, retiring in 1991. Tom was active in church all his life, his faith at the core of his being. After retiring from the military and the municipality of Anchorage, Dr. Tom passionately pursued an education in theology. During these later years Dr. Strange earned multiple masters and doctorate degrees as well as a Ph.D. He was working on his second Ph.D. when he died. Brother of the late Bob Strange ‘47, Uncle of Ned Strange ‘70, Russell Strange ‘73, and Susan Strange Krieger ‘77.
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Send notes to: Nick Goldsborough Ngoldsborough2@verizon.net
George Clark recently came back to Annapolis for a reunion with the squadron he served in Vietnam 46 years ago.
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Join us May 11, 2013 for your 60 year Reunion!
54
Send notes to: Jack Kelly jmkelly@norwoodlight.com
Bruce Hawtin recently wrote in to report that, “Class of 1954 is looking forward to our 60th Reunion and Severn’s 100th birthday on May 17, 2014.”
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Al Marshal reports that he is “Continuing as president of the US Tennis Assoc., South Carolina & Vice-Chair South Carolina Tennis Patron’s Foundation” and that he just recently attended his 50th reunion at the USNA where he saw his Severn friend John Eller `58.
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Join us May 11, 2013 for your 55 year Reunion! Send Notes to: John Eller johnceller@aol.com
Peter Moon is now the director of VCU Dental Bio Materials Laboratory in the School of Dentistry. He continues to enjoy his work with many research projects and says he’s hoping to continue working as he has numerous innovative ideas to pursue. Peter stays active with pick up volleyball and soccer games and leads a prostate cancer support group as part of his effort to treat a medical condition that was initially aggressive but one that he has been able to control for more than 12 years now. We wish you well Peter. Flashback 50 years. During the Army-Johns Hopkins lacrosse game this past spring, the Hopkins 1962 lacrosse team was honored at halftime. Tim Lowrey ‘58 was a member of that team and a photo of the team was broadcast on the TV station carrying the game. Tim hadn’t changed too much from his senior photo in the ‘58 Navigator. However, the difference in lacrosse sticks then Tim Lowrey ’58 as and now is striking. pictured in the 1958 Navigator
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Dave Secrest recently found himself musing on Severn and Mr. Teel. “[Below] are the words from Mr. Teel’s thoughts on remembering, friendships, growing up - all things that happened to us
“No matter what our age, there are times when we look back and think about and talk about the years that have passed, and almost invariably the starting point in our thinking, or reminiscing, is our high school or prep school days. This is so whether we are communing with ourselves or are swapping stories and experiences with friends. It is quite natural, for life really begins not at forty, but at fourteen or fifteen or sixteen when we become conscious of the fact that we are growing up and are anxious to assume greater and greater responsibility for ourselves and our actions. School-day friends and experiences come to mind. With some of the friends we have kept in rather close touch; with others we have lost contact, and we wonder what has happened to them. As to experience, we may think that if we had it all to do over again, we would have acted differently. But would we?” - Rolland M. Teel
CLASS NOTES
at Severn. I transcribed them from a photograph of the pillar to the right of the Alumni Walkway. Everyone, it seems, is very busy, perhaps too busy to realize the support and genuine enjoyment that long-term friendship can provide.
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Send Notes to: Robert Kesmodel rkesmodel@gmail.com Join us May 11, 2013 for your 50 year Reunion!
The class of 1963’s 50th reunion has all the earmarks of being a sensational time. “We are seeking good people gatherers. If you can help with the 50th, contact a classmate: Richard Graham rggraham@earthlink.net, Jerry Glenn Jerome.Glenn@MillenniumProject.org, Jock Hopkins JPH118@aol.com or Bill Winston (Doctors) wwinston@glenarvon.com or telephone the Alumni Office.”
1963 Class Reunion Photo from 40th Reunion
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Ron Dabbieri had some feedback from the last edition of the Bridge Magazine: “I noticed in the ‘64 class notes that Bill Porter ‘64 passed away but the obit failed to tell much about him. Bill and I lived together in the old cinderblock building between the mess hall and the old gym and he came home with me over Christmas because his family was overseas. His father was the first-ever US Ambassador to Algeria at the time having been appointed to the post by President Kennedy and Bill came to Severn from Algeria. From there his father became the Deputy Ambassador to South Vietnam (65-67) and then the Ambassador to South Korea (67-71). In 1971, President Nixon named him to head the U.S. Delegation at the Paris Peace Talks to end the Vietnam War. After a short stint as an Under Secretary of State, Nixon then named him Ambassador to Canada (74-75) and then President Ford named him Ambassador to Saudi Arabia (76-77). I hadn’t connected
with Bill since the early 90’s and at the time, as I recall, he was working at the Defense Intelligence Agency but don’t hold me to that. While I’m at it, the Colonel McCabe obit was interesting but it didn’t do justice to the significance of TF Faith in the Battle of the Chosin Reservoir, for which the Task Force Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Don Carlos Faith, received the Medal of Honor posthumously. TF Faith successfully guarded the right flank of the 1st Marine Division, protecting it from Chinese attack for four days. If not for the presence of the task force, the Chinese 80th and 81st Divisions probably would have captured the key Marine base and air-strip at Hagaru-ri before the Marines had concentrated sufficient units to defend it, which would have blocked the only escape route of the Marines and other Army units. The result would have been a significantly different outcome of the Battle of Chosin Reservoir. The Navy awarded the task force the Navy Presidential Unit Citation for this action. In 1984-85 I commanded the 2nd Engineer Battalion in the 2nd Infantry Division in Korea so got to learn a lot about the Korean War. All I can say is I’m sure glad I got to fight in Vietnam rather than Korea! I might mention that when I was a Lieutenant Colonel commanding the 2nd Engineers, my Severn roommate, Major Fred Wilhelm, was the executive officer of one of the Infantry Battalions in the Division. Small world!” notes to: Sandy Clark 65 Send sandyclark@yahoo.com Geoff Glatt recently weighed in with this information: “I was only at Severn for 1.5 years (7th-8th grade). I am ‘retired’ after a life spent largely on the road working for major multinationals. Worked and lived frequently overseas - mostly South America, Mexico, Central America & Western Europe.” Jim Nixdorff reports that he is now retired and is a master gardener, too. notes to: Richard Templeton 66 Send templetonrk@gmail.com
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Join us May 11, 2013 for your 45 year Reunion! Send notes to Shannon McDowell Shannonmcdowell2006@comcast.net
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Send notes to: Nick Codd nickcodd@verizon.net
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Send notes to: John Norton john@declarity.com
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Join us May 11, 2013 for your 40 year Reunion! Send notes to: Bona Hurst Ellis Rellis@msn.com
GP Lindsay and Court Williams are looking for some help in getting the Class of 1973 back for their 40th reunion. Please get in touch with them if you would like to assist: courtwilliams55@gmail.com & gplindsay@redwood-mortgage.com.
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Joni Morgan reports, “I moved to Eastport in September and am loving being back in Annapolis!”
notes to: Catherine Clarke 76 Send catherineclark@verizon.net
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Join us May 11, 2013 for your 35 year Reunion!
Kim Harquail Todd, Donna Whitworth Usewick and Erin Mulloy Stringfellow are making some plans for the Class of 1978 35th reunion. Keep your eyes peeled for information from them regarding the weekend of May 11, 2013. It is with regret that we share this sad news. Gordon Jayne of Dayton, MD, died peacefully while surrounded by his family at Johns Hopkins Hospital on October 4, 2012. “Gordo” as he was affectionately called was 52 years old. Born in 1960, he was the son of Gordon H. Jayne and Joan R. Jayne. Following Severn, he went on to graduate from the University of Maryland in 1983. Gordo married his lifelong love and partner, Brenda Owen Jayne in November 1986. His passion for outdoor adventures with friends and family was challenged by a decades-long battle with multiple sclerosis. Consequently, he devoted his time to raising funds for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and captained Team Lamberts, a group of dedicated bicyclists who together raised over $500,000 to find a cure for this disease. Gordo remained a faithful fan of the Orioles, Ravens, and Capitals, and enjoyed sharing post-game analysis with his mother, also a passionate fan. Gordo is survived by his wife, two children, mother, and brother, Peter.
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CLASS NOTES Andrew Sosnowski also passed away last December in his home in Mechanicsville, VA. No obituary is available. notes to: Kim Corbin Aviles 79 Send kaviles@cslaw.com
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Send notes to: Stacey Hendricks Manis maniss@comcast.net
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Send notes to: Tracy Tischer tctischer@gmail.com
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Join us May 11, 2013 for your 30 year Reunion! Send notes to: Molly Moore Green m.green@severnschool.com
Craig Decker and Suzy Kennerly are having fun getting the Class of 1983 30th reunion squared away. Get in touch with them if you would like to join the fun: craig. decker@rbc.com and suzykennerly@gmail.com notes to: Susan Tyndall Leonard 84 Send Susanleonard1921@mac.com
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Send notes to: Julie Katcef Julie12@comcast.net
notes to: Sara Tabasi Toomey 86 Send charleysangels@verizon.net Vicki Norton wants to get in touch with her Severn friends. She wrote, “Hi everyone. I’m not on Facebook but feel free to call at 410.231.8889. As always, all the Severn alum events are great!
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currently working to broaden Spark!Lab’s impact beyond the Smithsonian, working with museums across the country to integrate Spark!Lab activities and methTricia Edwards ‘88 odologies into their existing programs. Most recently, she directed the installation of a permanent Spark!Lab at the Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum in Reno, NV, and is working with the U.S. State Department to install Spark!Labs in various international locations. The first will open in September 2012 in Kyiv, Ukraine. She also serves on several pan-Institutional committees, including the Innovation at Smithsonian working group, the Smithsonian Council of Education Directors, and the Smithsonian Institution Learning Advocates Group.
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Send notes to: Holly Hodson holly@hollyhodson.com
Marc Axelbaum is the father of three. “Katherine and I are delighted to announce the arrival of Phoebe Alexandra Axelbaum. Phoebe was born on Thursday, July 12, 2012, weighing 7 lbs 8 oz, and measuring 20 1/2 inches. Charlie and Cammie are enjoying their little sister, at least so far. I’m settling into life as a father of three, shopping for cardigans and a mini-van. With a birthday of 7-12-12, she is carrying on the tradition set by her sister, Cammie, who was born on 1-10-10.”
Join us May 11, 2013 for your 25 year Reunion! Send notes to: Drew Burns dburns@pcmservices
Tricia Edwards is the chief of education for the Smithsonian’s Lemelson Center for the Study of Invention and Innovation at the National Museum of American History. She develops the conceptual framework for the Center’s educational programs and activities, related instructional materials, and evaluation instruments, with a primary focus on Spark!Lab, the Center’s hands-on invention activity center. She is
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The Bridge
Charlie, Cammie, and little sister Phoebe – adorable children of Marc Axelbaum ’89.
notes to: Blairlee Meade Owens 90 Send blairleeowens@comcast.net
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Send notes to: Heather Piskorowski Heatherpisko@gmail.com
Send notes to: Jen Molesevich 92 Jennpm1@msn.com
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Join us May 11, 2013 for your 20 year Reunion! Send notes to: Dave Sobel dave@evolvetech.com
Dudley Dixon recently had some kind words about Severn:
“Severn School changed my life and helped me be much more prepared for what was ahead. Thank you, Severn.” notes to: Mike Calabrese 94 Send Calabrese_michael@hotmail.com Andrew Jones and his wife Ashley welcomed their second child, Dylan Andrew Jones, last April. “Big sister Morgan is such a great help. I miss living in Maryland but it more than makes up for it when I get to go to the beach any day I want in Wilmington, NC,” he wrote.
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Send Notes to: Darcy Watt Gurganous Drwatt21@hotmail.com
David Pizzi and Carrie Cole Pizzi checked in from Fort Collins, CO recently. “Susie was four at the end of October, and Annie was born July 27. So we have our hands full right now. Everyone is doing well, and we are really enjoying the sun we were deprived of in Seattle during the last five years. We saw Megan Bauer Sims ‘86 and Josh Sims ‘86 in Vail at the end of June to watch Brad Graw play in the Vail Shootout. Josh and Megan brought their four girls with them. Josh and Megan are incredible to watch and they seem to handle all the girls with amazing skill. We try to keep them in mind when just Susie and Annie make us feel overwhelmed. As Annie grows and travels become easier, hopefully we’ll be able to sneak back every now and then for Homecoming and other functions.”
CONTACT the Alumni Office if you would like to be involved in planning your class reunion! email info@severnschool.com
CLASS NOTES
notes to: Erika Huebner Rollins 96 Send Erika@designstudio13.com
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Send notes to: Gussie Habeck Melendez augustamelendez@gmail.com
us May 11, 2013 for your 98 Join 15 year Reunion! Send notes to: Dan Ericson Ericson@gwmail.gwu.edu Dan Ericson said “Although it is difficult to fathom, May 12, 2013, is the date of our 15 year reunion! Where did all of the time go? I’m excited about this impending milestone, and look forward to getting together! I’d like to organize a committee to prepare for our reunion. If you are interested in participating, please e-mail me at ericson@ gwmail.gwu.edu or send me a note through LinkedIn. Happy holidays to you and your family. Thanks to Randy Newman who also has agreed to help out with our efforts.” In other news Dan reports, “Ellen and I are thrilled to announce that Seth Robert Ericson has joined our family! He was born in Washington, DC at The George Washington University (GWU) Hospital on 0807-12 .Joining our family ten-days late, he weighed in at approximately 10 lbs, 14 oz, and measured 21 inches long. Wow! Seth and Ellen are doing very well. In particular, not surprisingly, Ellen was remarkable. And, please don’t worry, I’m fine too!”
Ellen, baby Seth, and Dan Erickson ’98
Jenn Smith Addabbo had a busy year traveling. She travels weekly as the vice president of national sales for PSCU, a credit union service organization that provides credit card, debit card, and ebanking technology for credit unions. She also has been traveling and recently visited Ireland and Amsterdam with her husband Mike where they played golf and enjoyed some authentic Irish pubs. They still love living in Tampa with their two year old son, Palmer, and is hoping to make it for the 15 year reunion!
Marina Hardy reports, “In March, I joined the Clear Channel Outdoor team as the public affairs manager for Maryland, Virginia and Washington, D.C. My office days are focused on zoning codes and First Amendment issues with some nice breaks for committees and networking. I was just asked to join the board of directors for the American Advertising Club of Baltimore and the Greater Washington Urban League - a nice blend of industry work and civic service.” Catherine Koch Eplett and her husband Phil are expecting a baby girl in early February. Katy Shelor Harvey had a baby girl in July. “She’s finally here! Milligan Jane Harvey Milli for short. She’s 7 lb and 9 oz of healthy baby! She gave us quite a tough time but everyone is healthy and happy. Talk about a labor of love!”
Jeff Haskins ‘98
Jeffrey Nicholas Haskins passed away in Mombasa, Kenya suddenly on July 14 due to a heart attack. He was born in 1980 in Chapel Hill, NC, to Dr. Jeffrey Haskins and the late Susan Haskins. Jeff grew up in Washington, until the age of 13, when they moved to Annapolis. There Jeff attended the Key School and then Severn. Jeff’s hobbies and interests were diverse, but music was his love. He went on to attend college at St. Lawrence University in New York. During his junior year, he traveled and studied abroad in Nairobi, Kenya, where he fell in love with East Africa’s diverse social and cultural landscape. It was here that he planned to live and start a family with his wife Meredith Braden Haskins '98. Not long after graduation Jeffrey moved back to DC and began work for Burness Communications. During his nine year career at Burness, Jeff developed into an expert communications strategist on global development issues with a focus on sustainable agriculture. In 2008, Jeff was asked by his employer to open the firm’s Africa office and for the last four years, he led Burness’ efforts on the ground in Kenya and across Africa, representing a wide range of nonprofit and international organizations. Jeff is greatly missed by all. notes to: Jane Friend 00 Send Jfriend12@gmail.com
Katy Shelor Harvey ’00 and baby Milli
Matt & Meg Myers Henderson ‘00 welcomed Myers Henderson on July 23, 2012. Karen Radowich is a certified family nurse practitioner at the East Baltimore Medical Center. She received her master’s degree as a family nurse practitioner from Johns Hopkins University and her under graduate degrees from the University of Delaware.
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Send Notes to: Helen McCaffrey Birney helenwb@gmail.com
Alexis Helen McCaffrey Birney was born on November 5, 2012, at 10:42am. She was a peanut at 5 pounds, 5 ounces, 17.25 inches long. Nora and I couldn’t be more thrilled to be parents and are just so in love with our January 2013
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CLASS NOTES little girl, named after Helen’s Dad, Lex, and Nora’s grandmother, Helen.
Nora and Helen McCaffrey Birney ’01 with their baby Alexis.
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Join us May 11, 2013 for your 10 year Reunion!
Nick & Tyler Larkin are heading up the reunion! Contact them at TLarkin2@washcoll. edu or n.larkin2@gmail.com notes to: Jen Preswood 04 Send jennpresswood@gmail.com Jack Radowich is a junior designer at the architectural firm OLBN, Inc. OLBN has offices in Rockville, MD, New York and Beijing. He began working there shortly after completing his double master at The Catholic University of America in 2010. He is currently working to complete his professional licensure requirements. Jack married Elmira Farahani, fellow architect and accomplished photographer, on June 12, 2011. They recently spent their honeymoon on the isle of Santorini in Greece.
based at Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri.
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Send notes to: Janessa Del Sesto DiMenna Jmdel87@Yahoo.com
Janessa Del Sesto married Christian DiMenna on July 8, 2012 in Mitchellville, MD. Many fellow Severn alumni were able to celebrate with her that day, including Kelsey Darnell and Lesley Sutherland as bridesmaids. The couple is enjoying married life in their newly purchased home in Annapolis. Chris and Janessa Del Sesto DiMenna ’05
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May 11, 2013
Lainey Rosson moved to Michigan to pursue a marketing research position with Gongos Research in Auburn Hills, Michigan.
Emma Marie Rosson, daughter of Kate & Jack Rosson ’04
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goal scorer for Vanderbilt in her senior year. Alex currently is a first year nursing student at Georgetown University.
Alumni Weekend
Send notes to: Courtney Dunn Ctd231@gmail.com
Send notes to: Katie Dickerson kdicker@emory.edu
E.C. Bilo is a senior at Virginia Tech School of Engineering. He had an internship last summer with Whiting and Turner in Baltimore and San Francisco. He currently is interning with Marathon Oil in Chicago, IL. Leanne Hug spent her summer interning with Hanes Brands, Inc. in Winston-Salem, NC.
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Send notes to: Mackenzie Carroll mackcarroll@comcast.net
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Send notes to: Beanie Antonini beanslacrosse@hotmail.com or Kaitlyn Flynn Kaitlynivy@yahoo.com
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Send Class notes to: Kaya Gordon kagg.12@gmail.com or Grace Rudder grace.rudder@gmail.com
Courtney Dunn is currently working in the art department on a feature film shooting in NYC called “Non-Stop” starring Liam Neeson and Julianne Moore. It is about a US Air Marshal who is put to the test on an international flight.
Elmira and Jack Radowich ’04
Kate and Jack Rosson welcomed Emma Marie Rosson on September 28. They moved from Alaska in December and Jack will finish Officer Training School in Montgomery, Alabama in March. After that Lieutenant Rosson and his family will be 32
The Bridge
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Join us May 11, 2013 for your 5 year Reunion! Send notes to: Annie Weber Acw5133@psu.edu
Alex Priddy received the Delaney-Sheetz Academic award for the graduating senior with the highest GPA in the American Lacrosse Conference. She was the 2nd leading
Don’t see your class? That’s because there were no notes to include nor is there a Class Secretary. Contact the Alumni Office to send an update or volunteer at info@severnschool.com
Coming Events
DON’T FORGET TO REGISTER ONLINE FOR THE FOLLOWING EVENTS AT WWW.SEVERNSCHOOL.COM
GODSPELL
SPEAKER KYLE MAYNARD
UPPER SCHOOL SPRING MUSICAL February 21, 22, 23 Price Auditorium
PRESENTED BY THE DAVID ASTLE MEMORIAL LECTURE SERIES April 24, 2013 7:30 pm - Parents & Community Invited
ANNUAL BENEFIT AUCTION
Kyle Maynard is a motivational speaker, author, entrepreneur and athlete. Despite being born with arms that end at the elbows and legs near the knees, Kyle wrestled for one of the best teams in the Southeast, set records in weightlifting, fought in mixed martial arts, and most recently became the first man to crawl on his own to the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa.
“THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE SEVERN” April 13, 2013 Edward St. John Athletic Center
CHESS TOURNAMENT 16th ANNUAL MARYLAND JUNIOR OPEN April 20, 2013 Edward St. John Athletic Center
visit http://kyle-maynard.com
WHAT TO KNOW
BECOME A MEMBER
What you need to know to include Severn School in your estate plans or will:
Put Severn in your will, tell us & become a member of the Severn 1914 Society.
OUR OFFICIAL NAME: Severn School, Inc. OUR ADDRESS: 201 Water Street, Severna Park, MD 21146 OUR ORGANIZATION: Registered as a charitable organization in the State of Maryland OUR IRS STATUS: 501(c)(3) non-profit organization - Federal ID # 52-059-1466 OUR TAX STATUS: Gifts and bequests are deductible from income tax and estate tax to the full extent of the law. Talk with us today about including Severn School in your will and other gift opportunities. Please Contact:
Mary Kernan Salsich, Director of Annual and Planned Giving 410.647.7701 x 2261 or m.salsich@severnschool.com
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SEVERN SCHOOL
Office of Alumni Relations 201 Water Street Severna Park, MD 21146
Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit #81 Millersville, MD
410.647.7700 www.severnschool.com Change Service Requested
Senior girls tug-o-war at the Spirit Week Field Day to kick off Homecoming 2012