Crew THE Alumni Notes

1982

Douglas Reeve ’82

2006

Charles Altuzarra ‘06

“I got my PhD in physics in 2017 and focused on advances in nanoscience and quantum optics, more specifically entangled photons. A paper that I wrote entitled, Squeezed light-induced two-photon absorption fluorescence of fluorescein biomarkers , was included in the 2022 Physics Nobel Prize resources by the American Institute of Physics! I left academic research in 2021 and started a tech company called Metahelios Ltd. with a good friend and former colleague. We develop cutting-edge imaging technologies for industries including defense, aerospace, and satellite imaging for climate tracking.”

My advice for current students is: most of my learning skills really improved after graduating from high school, chances are the same applies to many Landmark students. It might seem obvious, but realizing it will change everything. Also, it’s easy to feel stigmatized because of your learning difficulties, however, don’t let anyone tell you what you can or can’t do. Chances are, you are much smarter than you think you are.

2012

Pelagia Candelas ’12

“Last time I updated Landmark I believe I was doing my master’s degree at Boston University in cellular molecular biology. However, I got into medical school in 2021 and am currently a second year medical student at Drexel University College of Medicine. I truly could not have been able to achieve these goals without the help of Landmark. Many educators, mentors, and professors doubted my abilities due to my dyslexia. I have also had to fight every step of the way to get the accommodations I need. It is hard to convince a system that the supports that I am asking for are not an advantage, but the only way I can be on an equal playing field with my peers. I was able to fight and advocate for myself due to the confidence and mentorship that I had at Landmark. Thank you!”

Matt Fries ’12

“Six years, three presidents, and one pandemic later… never a dull moment.”

2013

Lauren Clayton ‘13

“Landmark was such a special place for me and it was the safety and comfort that I needed while going through high school. I know how privileged I was and still am that I got the amazing opportunity to find people who understood me. I always thought of Landmark people as my other family and the school as a place to call my second home. Finding that in a higher education setting is really hard, but I was doubly lucky to find it again at Lesley University. I can honestly say I wouldn’t be where I am today without both Landmark and Lesley.”

2014

Zander Manning ’14

“I am currently working as a property manager for a condominium complex in western Massachusetts while earning my real estate license. I also use my degree in journalism that I earned in 2018 from University of Massachusetts by periodically writing for a self-run sports blog where I tweet about the game as it’s happening, and recap the game right after. I mostly write about the American Hockey League and college hockey and have had the opportunity to interview many different people, such as Bruins prospect Fabian Lysell and others. You can find it on the web at northeastregionalsports journal.com. My girlfriend and I live in Granby, Mass. I hope everyone at Landmark is doing well.”

2016

Alec Salzar ‘16

After two years of civilian life, halfway through his Individual Ready Reserve (IRR) status, and promotion to Sergeant in the Marine Corps, Alec has decided to return to active duty in the Army. He insisted that he maintain his rank if the Army wanted him and the Lieutenant General of the northeast approved his request. Usually, you lose a rank when transferring to another branch of service. Alec is the happiest he’s been in years!

Eliza Wildes ’16

Eliza graduated from Ithaca College with a major in history. She then earned a master’s degree from Merrimack College in higher education in a one-year program. Eliza is now working at Cornell University as an admission counselor at the College of Industrial and Labor Relations and is living in upstate New York. See pg. 10 for Eliza’s poem that was recently used in Landmark’s 50th Anniversary video presentation.

Reunion, Oct. 1, 2022

Alumni traveled from both coasts and everywhere in between to celebrate the graduates of 2012 in their 10-year reunion—and it was a huge success!

Sixty members of the Landmark community attended a festive and memorable gathering at ReelHouse in East Boston. Alumni from the classes of 2010–2014, as well as former and current faculty members, joined in the fun. The site was a picture-perfect location where revelers could take a step outside to gaze at the spectacular view of the city skyline across the water. Thanks to all who joined us. We’re looking forward to getting together again soon!