Tatnall today spring 2014

Tatnall Spring 2014

TODAY

Tatnall Says Goodbye to

Dr. Eric G. Ruoss

FOREWARD

From the Head of School

Reflection on Gratitude and Blessings

A

s we reflect on 18 years at The Tatnall School, the abundance of our blessings is awe-inspiring for Lin and me. Warmest and most significant among these blessings are the precious moments that our students,

families and faculty have shared with us during times of great joy, devastating sorrow and enlivening promise. The birth of a baby, the death of a child, the coming together of a family and the breaking up of a home, a remarkable personal achievement and the confusion of an opportunity missed are all part of the life of a real and honest community. You have invited us to experience it all.

You have shared a trust in the moment, and this is the most valuable gift that can be given. Thank you!

As we all have labored together to help build this community, we reflect on the millions of dollars (almost 40) that you have contributed to Tatnall in these past 18 years. We see the remarkable diversity that you have welcomed into our community, which has been encouraged by our expanded outreach into the greater Wilmington area. Personally, I marvel at the “boundless� ability of this school to support young people in all areas of their development. We house exemplary arts opportunities with the best performance venue in the region.

This is coupled with a superb academic curriculum and a challenging athletic program. Every child deserves a time to excel and to feel great joy in each day.

Such a rich environment can only be created within a broad presentation of fields and stages. There is no doubt that Tatnall, over the last 18 years, has become such a safe, enlivening and nurturing haven.

Lin and I have experienced many blessings throughout our 43 years of working with young people. Voices from the past and present refresh our memories and validate our confidence in the value of this calling. Regardless of where we have been throughout the world, we have come to know good people who have been ready to seize opportunities to do good things. As we reflect on our experience with gratitude, we look forward to future adventures with enthusiasm. We thank you for the gifts of your friendship, your trust and the pieces of your lives that have become a part of ours.

Faithfully,

Eric G. Ruoss Head of School

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| Tatnall Today

Tatnall School

FOREWARD

The

From the Head of School

Tatnall Today Magazine 1501 Barley Mill Road Wilmington, DE 19807 302-998-2292 www.tatnall.org

7 From the Head9of School FOREWARD

Tatnall Today is published twice a year by Tipton Communications. Copyright by The Tatnall School.

Alumni and faculty articles encouraged.

Editor Lacy Wulfers, Tipton Communications, 302-454-7901 Director of Alumni Relations Anita Marcial, 302-892-4337, marcial@tatnall.org Photography Jim Graham ’77, Harold Davis, Pat Crowe, Robin Chipman and Tatnall staff Board of Trustees President, Kathryn M. Fischer | Vice President, Caroline Brown Lintner ’83 | Secretary, Carolyn J. Walker | Treasurer, Thomas P. Ferry Peter W. Atwater | Kristin E. Finio | Cynthia A. Hewitt ’69 | S. Mark Hurd, Esq. | Caroline Tatnall Ketcham ’58 | Elizabeth D. Maron, Esq. | Stephen D. Marvin ’88 | Frank J. McKelvey III | Wendy A. Owen | Mary Lu Currin Pamm ’78 | Thomas C. Shea Jr. | J. Vincent Watchorn III ’87 | Cindy Pettinaro Wilkinson ’88 | David T. Woods | Terri M. Young Administration Head of School, Eric G. Ruoss | Head of Upper School, Sarah G. Baylin | Head of Middle School, Stephen P. Esmond Jr. | Head of Lower School, Jennifer K. DeLashmutt | Head of Preschool, Aimee C. Neff Business Manager, Paula L. Hager | Director of Alumni Relations, Anita Marcial | Director of Athletics, Patrick L. Jones | Director of Development, J. Patrick Gugerty | Director of Enrollment and Financial Aid, Eric F. Peters | Director of Summer Programs, Mark L. Davis | Operations Foreman, Barry T. Kintz Alumni Council President, Cindy Pettinaro Wilkinson ’88 | Vice President, Becky King Rogers ’79 | Secretary, Kay Sierer Hill ’67 | Immediate Past President, Brian Carney ’97 Mark Chubb ’95 | Jackie Ciconte ’02 | Chris Debnam ’81 | Anne Tatnall Gross ’56 | Michele Centrella Harra ’97 | Amanda Jacobs ’02 | Suzy Chase LeBaron ’64 | Caroline Brown Lintner ’83 | Jamie Magee ’89 | Patrick O’Hara ’06 | Mary Lu Currin Pamm ’78 | Abby Williams Schneider ’97 | Jonathan Silver ’06 | Linda Archangelo Sygowski ’71 | Lexie Hynansky Vadas ’88

The Tatnall School admits students of any race, color and national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color or national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational and admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.

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18

Co n t en t s

Foreword from the Head of School

2

Tatnall Says Goodbye to Dr. Eric G. Ruoss

6

Tatnall Welcomes Charles A. Tierney III

7

50th Anniversary of Showcase

8

Spirituality at Tatnall

9 Catching Up Founder’s Day, Grandparents and Special Friends Day, Around Campus, Playbill and 8th Grade Play

14

Fall 2013 and Winter 2014 Athletic Highlights

18

Tatnall School News

19

Seniors Take Fun, Learning Bite Out of the Big Apple

20

Denmark Exchange

21

Faculty Notes

23 Alumni Community Starts Here, Homecoming, Receptions and Planned Giving

28

The Fund for Tatnall: Why I Give

30

Class Notes and In Memoriam

On the Cover: Front row (left to right) - Head of School Dr. Eric G. Ruoss, Sara Kane and Yaseen Belkadi. Back row (left to right) - Galen Kelly, Nick Robinson, Skyler Knox, Emily Rose and Richie Lou. Spring |

1

A Tribute

to our Head of School

Tatnall Says Goodbye to Dr. Eric G. Ruoss

The interview

helped the school to firmly reestablish its

semifinal basketball championship by a

about him, but retiring

hair,” von Duyke recalls. “There wasn’t

Frances D.S. Tatnall: Omnia in Caritate.

Head of School Dr.

a dry eye in the stands or the locker room

All things done in love. Tatnall, under

Eric G. Ruoss wouldn’t have it. He brushed

afterward. On the way out, there was Dr.

Eric’s leadership, was to be a school that

aside talk about his achievements during

Ruoss. He shook my hand, looked me in

demanded academic excellence, but with

his 18-year tenure at The Tatnall School.

the eye and said he was proud of me. He

a heart.

Instead, Eric focused on the topic that has

told me to keep my head up, because ‘next

driven his life and career: helping young

season starts today.’ Sure enough, exactly

Eric embodies the ideals of Mrs. Tatnall

people to succeed.

one year later, we were cutting down the

better than anybody has since her,” says

nets as state champions.”

Marilyn Hayward, former Board of

“All of us think we have value because someone values us. That’s part of what

“Students’ best interests are always

identity as first envisioned by its founder,

“People have said, as head of school,

Trustees president. “It’s in the way he looks

is different about Tatnall. Our kids know

at the heart of his decisions,” adds Upper

at the total student, not just individual

we care about them and believe in them.

School Division Head Sarah Baylin. “He

aspects. Tatnall’s approach is dramatically

Our primary objective is to enhance the

believes that attitude and work ethic are

different from other schools’. It’s one of

self-worth of children. That comes first, and

more important than aptitude, and he strives

the things that attracted him to the school

then learning is easy,” Eric says.

to develop these attributes in Tatnall’s

in the first place, and his record of the

students. A wonderful advisor, he forms

same attracted us to him. We have not been

education—has benefited more than 1,000

close, long-lasting relationships with

disappointed since.”

students who have passed through Tatnall

his advisees.”

This philosophy—all too unique in

while Eric has served as head of school.

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“In my junior year, we lost in the state

was supposed to be

Eric’s pastoral focus is perhaps his

Before Eric, some might say that the school had struggled to define its place in

Graduates like Scott von Duyke (’06) carry

greatest gift to Tatnall. When he arrived in

Delaware’s hyper-competitive independent

his words of encouragement to this day.

1996, the ordained Presbyterian minister

school market. The school seemed to stray

| Tatnall Today

FOREWARD

From the Head of School

With Eric Ruoss preparing to retire after 18 years leading The Tatnall School, members of the school community are reflecting on his contributions.

“He is a man of incredible integrity. He has always made decisions based on what is best for the students and how to prepare them for life. He has always done what he thought was best for the kids, even if it was unpopular. That’s what makes him so good. That’s what makes him Eric.”

– Marilyn Hayward, Board of Trustees past president “ He is a good listener and a thoughtful, gentle soul. He is also extremely strategic and very aware of how the day-to-day different issues all fit into the larger picture and the school’s values. As the Head of School, he was able to look ahead and see how issues affect the larger program and what Tatnall instills in its students.” from Mrs. Tatnall’s vision, leading to tension, internal strife and a sharp decline in faculty and staff morale.

To better understand the issues, Eric spent his first summer at Tatnall meeting with every member of the school’s staff and faculty. The meetings revealed deep hostility, mistrust and anger. “They were waiting for another attack,” Eric says.

Instead, Eric gathered the faculty and challenged them to put aside the past. He reminded them of their mission as teachers.

“I focused on what Tatnall is all about. Why this is the best environment for kids. How we make students’ lives richer by spending time with them, day in and day out.”

“Eric came to Tatnall when faculty morale and spirits were at a low point.

We were all looking for a leader, and Eric proved to be one,” according to Sandra Idstein, Upper School science teacher and guidance counselor. “Eric helped heal the faculty by believing in our worth. That behavior meant a great deal to us.”

– Stephen Mockbee, Tatnall parent “During his tenure, Tatnall has successfully completed two Middle States accreditations, renovated all of the Upper School science labs, built the Laird Performing Arts Center, opened up Mac’s Garden and created a memory garden for Rosemary Crawford. He also grew the endowments and secured Tatnall’s finances.”

– Sarah Baylin, Upper School division head “Eric has always believed that the life lessons learned from participation in sports are crucial in the character formation of kids. His support of Tatnall athletics has allowed coaches to grow their programs and reach for the highest level of competition the United States has to offer, without concern for the bureaucratic issues that plague so many other schools. His disciplined and caring leadership has inspired me as a teacher and coach.”

– Patrick Castagno, Upper School computer science teacher and cross country and track & field coach “Tatnall has lost several students, as well as some students’ close relatives, to tragic accidents. Last year, we lost Rosemary Crawford. Each time these losses occurred, Eric was there for the kids, for the parents and for the faculty. His support and calm presence acted as great comfort for all involved.”

– Sandra Idstein, Upper School science teacher and guidance counselor Spring |

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Richard Vague, a former Tatnall board

back from a handful and jumped at an

hire Eric, remembers the time well. “There

opportunity with the Trinity-Pawling

was a genuine concern about the direction

School in Pawling, New York. He spent

of Tatnall. Eric came in with calmness and

the next 13 years at the boarding school for

determination and insisted that everyone

boys, rising through the ranks to become

move in the right direction. Almost since

dean of students. At the school, he coached

day one, things were back to where they

wrestling, football and track, in addition

needed to be.”

to teaching.

“Eric brought two vital strengths with

being a good educator wasn’t enough to

served as headmaster at Tower Hill School

reach the boys he taught. Many came from

from 1986 to 2005 and who became a close

complex family settings that influenced

friend to Eric. “One was accountability.

their abilities to learn. Eric thought he

On every level—from teachers to students

needed to do more to reach the young men,

to administrators to parents, or even

so he returned to school at Iona College,

parents to their own responsibilities—Eric

earning his master’s degree in counseling

stressed accountability. The other strength

and post-master’s certificate in

was consistency. Eric attracted strong

family counseling.

In 1984, Eric was recruited to

the mission, being persistent and steady.

become headmaster of Blue Ridge School

With Eric as head of school, one never saw

in St. George, Virginia. Eric developed

Tatnall go off on a tangent without a plan

a summer school program, initiated an

or a reason. Believing in structure, he rarely

effective residential life program and

chose to wing it.”

developed an alumni council while at

Eric’s appreciation for discipline

the all-boys boarding school. He also

developed in part during his years as a

implemented a successful capital campaign

high school and college wrestler. To this

for the construction of a new library and

day, he carefully manages his calories to

administrative building. In 1992, after

stay within a pound or two of his college

completing a doctorate in education

wrestling weight.

leadership and policy studies at the

His approach to education (and to life)

University of Virginia, Eric moved on to

reflects his deep-seated spirituality. From an

become headmaster at Dunn School in

early age, he was an active participant in his

Los Olivos, California, where he would

church’s activities, from choir to summer

gain experience in a coeducational school

camps to youth groups. After graduating

setting. His next stop was Tatnall.

with a history degree from Ursinus College,

“When he came to Tatnall, he was

where he met his future wife, Lin, he

referred to as the ‘Renaissance man’

earned his master’s degree in divinity from

because of his diverse background—

Union Theological Seminary in New York.

classically trained, a minister and an

He thought he was preparing for a

athlete,” Golding says. “I would agree he

career in the ministry. But a friend who

is a Renaissance man, but I look at him as

graduated before him from Union took a

Everyman. He is comfortable interacting

job as a chaplain at a boarding school and

with people from any walk of life, and

encouraged Eric to pursue a similar career.

that’s incredibly important as a head of

“He said I could teach history and

school. One can’t be above the fray; one

religion and coach wrestling. ‘It’s like

has to be in the fray. Eric has always been

summer camp all year round,’ he told me.

the one who is going to stand up and

That sounded pretty good to a 24-year-old,”

be counted.”

Eric says. | Tatnall Today

During this time, Eric realized that

him to Tatnall,” recalls Tim Golding, who

administrators who believed in staying on

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He wrote to about 50 schools, heard

member and current parent who helped

After arriving at Tatnall, Eric helped

FOREWARD

From the Head of School

“The moment that still lives with me today and shines a spotlight on the character of Dr. Ruoss happened on one of the darkest days of my life. I had been a graduate for more than a year when my father passed away very suddenly on a summer day in 2002. Somehow, Dr. Ruoss was one of the first to know. He didn’t think twice and jumped into his car to be the first person at my house. I was no longer a student at Tatnall. He had no guide the school through a series of facility and program improvements. Administrative offices were moved to the front of the Beekley Building, just off the main lobby, to ensure access to students and parents.

The Beekley Building lobby itself was opened up to create a friendly meeting area and provide access to the school library.

A fitness center was added, and needed interior systems improvements were made to the Lower School building. In addition, a master plan for the entire school property was drafted and infrastructure improvements made to enable future facility expansion.

Eric also worked to gain board approval for continued investment in the school’s renowned performing arts program, which ultimately led to the construction of the 23,000-square-foot Laird Performing Arts Center.

“Eric’s legacy will always include his support of the performing arts and getting the Laird Performing Arts Center built,” says Tatnall Upper School English teacher Bruce Chipman, who directs the annual Tatnall Showcase. “The theater would not exist today without him. It is because he was willing to listen and support the cause that we have the most beautiful theater in the state. Today, Tatnall is recognized by other schools and professional organizations for this magnificent facility.”

For Eric, when he reflects on his time at Tatnall, he not surprisingly returns to the young people whose lives have been forever changed by their experiences at the school.

“I feel that we have served a lot of young people well. They left feeling good about themselves. They went on to be successful on a lot of levels, in many different directions.”

responsibility to me or my family. That is testament to a man who goes beyond the call of duty, a man who truly cares.”

– Jeffrey Chubb ’01 “You walk into the gym today, and all you see are championship banners.

Maybe we had one before Eric got here, but all the others are a direct result of the coaches he hired. Quite literally, he has supported the arts, athletics and academics during his tenure. In a quiet way, he has been at the root of Tatnall’s trademark, balance.”

– Greg Mentzer, Lower School science teacher “In 2000, under Eric Ruoss’ direction, the board created the position of director of Alumni Relations, and Eric offered me the opportunity to fill that role, where I had the good fortune to get to know him more through one-on-one conversations. I learned that he has done much in his 18 years of leadership at Tatnall, enabling our school to continue as a leading private school in the region. But what stands out most for me is his compassion for people in need of his strength, support and friendship.”

– Anita Marcial, director of Alumni Relations “It was 1996, and I was a 14-year-old 7th grader at wrestling practice when I witnessed our new headmaster doing these difficult acrobatic handstand push-ups in the corner of the gym. It was my first impression of a man who would become my high school advisor, trusted mentor through college and close friend. Well, fortunately for the Tatnall family, he went about his leadership over the past 18 years in the same way he went about his handstand push-ups the first time I met him: with immense strength, balance and control.”

– J. Michael Cleaver ’01 “I will never forget his simple gestures of kindness. To me, this was Omnia in Caritate lived out to the fullest. Eric led Tatnall the same way— with wisdom and calmness. I have learned so much from him over the years and I am ever so grateful.”

– Lisa Coldiron, Lower School music teacher “I would describe Eric’s leadership as quiet, collegial and strong—traits that have allowed the school to flourish during a period of economic upheaval and educational change. I have felt throughout Eric’s tenure a return to Mrs. Tatnall’s spirit and values and applaud and thank him for so successfully guiding Tatnall for the past 18 years.”

– Ann Wick, Board of Trustees past president Spring |

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Q&A with Head-Elect Charles A. Tierney III Q: What aspects of the upcoming school year are you looking forward to the most?

Massachusetts, I taught five history classes

A: Since all of my visits to campus have

students, coached three seasons of athletics,

been rather brief, I anticipate the luxury of spending time at Tatnall, especially with the students, faculty and staff. I will enjoy swimming in the culture, learning the

with four different preparations, lived in a dormitory with 80 boys, advised eight monitored breakfast check-in, ran the switchboard on Sunday afternoons, served as student newspaper adviser and sports information director and transported injured

and Althea are very excited about their

students to the hospital as necessary. I loved

transition to Tatnall as students in the fall.

all of it and have never regretted dedicating

Once we are settled in the First State, Gina

my life to young people.

expects to continue the application process

learn more about the work with younger

Q: Describe some of your work at Northfield Mount Hermon.

to nursing school programs.

students and to immerse myself and my

A: In addition to working alongside the

Q: What are you reading these days?

head and stepping in for him as needed, I

A: I often have several books going at once.

managed day-to-day operations, as well

In addition to Robert Fagles’ translation

Q: How did you get started in education?

as special projects. I am proud of my role

of The Odyssey, which I am reading aloud

A: I blame my college roommate, who is

in coordinating efforts during NMH’s

whenever my children will listen, I am

daring and historic consolidation from two

enjoying Scott Anderson’s Lawrence in

campuses to one. In addition to serving

Arabia. I recently read the books of two

as every type of dean at the school, I

authors whom we hosted at NMH, Michael

have taught history, advised students and

Horn’s Disrupting Class: How Disruptive

occasionally coached. I have served and led

Innovation Will Change the Way the World

in many positions, including interim head

Learns and The Sandcastle Girls by Chris

of school, yet never served as director of

Bohjalian. The recent news from Ukraine

the health center or dining services. Lately

has inspired me to tackle two books on

I have been involved in the construction of

Eastern Europe by Anne Applebaum this

six faculty homes and in market research

summer—and a good history of Delaware.

traditions and collecting stories. I plan to savor the excitement and energy of being new and experiencing the rhythms of my first school year at Tatnall. I am excited to

family in daily school life and the greater Tatnall community.

an investment banker. During the spring of our senior year in college, he suggested that I teach high school history instead of heading to Wall Street. Having put up with four years’ worth of stories about my prep school experience, my roommate helped me recognize that my vocation would involve immersion in school life.

For my first teaching job in rural, western

and general planning efforts, as well as planning for a new science/mathematics/

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| Tatnall Today

Q: What is one “fun fact” most people would be surprised to learn about you?

technology center.

A: Someday I plan to hike with my family

Q: When do you and your family plan to move to Delaware?

the way of Santiago de Compostela, a medieval pilgrimage route from southern

A: My official start date at Tatnall is July 1. The specifics of

Q: How did you meet Gina? What do you admire about her?

our move to the First State are

A: A friend of hers brought her to a Fourth

just coalescing. Our children’s

of July party I was throwing, and we met

transition will occur after their

playing wiffle ball. During the visit, Gina’s

longstanding summer activities,

friend experienced acute appendicitis and

including travel and participation

hosting duties (happily) shifted to me. Gina

in camps. Finnian, who is a

is one of the strongest individuals I know.

sophomore, will finish out his

A natural teacher, she thrives in learning

high school experience at NMH

environments and embraces change and new

as a boarding student. Fiona

experiences. She always has inspired me.

France through northwestern Spain.

Back

Stage

Showcase Celebrates 50 years “But why turn to acting? Life has enough drama in it.”

A question posed in this year’s Showcase production of “The Curious Savage” is one 41-year-veteran Bruce Chipman, Upper School English teacher, is all too eager to answer. Marking the 50th anniversary of Showcase, Tatnall’s longest running theater program, Chipman has been a part of all but nine productions and continues to champion the program’s role.

“The arts are a crucial component of the Tatnall identity,” says Chipman.

“Showcase has been a key element of the theater program for many years now. The community effort needed to put on these productions, as well as the impact on the students who participate, never ceases to amaze me.”

Introduced in 1964, Showcase has always been much more than a play. This advanced theater class, offered to sophomores, juniors and seniors, is a cornerstone of the arts curriculum at Tatnall. Over the course of 50 years, productions have ranged from “Annie Get Your Gun” (1964) to “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” (1976) and “The Diary of Anne Frank” (2012). Additionally, more than 1,000 students have received intensive instruction in all aspects of theatrical performance and production, ranging from acting to technical design, construction and make-up. Showcase also requires great cooperation from the community, as many volunteers assist with props and costumes and donate their time to provide instruction.

“Showcase is yet another example of the supportive nature of the Tatnall

Memories 50 Years Strong On the occasion of the program’s 50th anniversary, former Showcase participants recall the many lessons learned in the Tatnall course and the memories that linger long after the curtain closes.

“I have great memories of Showcase and the camaraderie that it embodied. It is one of those life lessons that taught me that great experiences are worth more than all the money in the world. That sense of achievement engendered through teamwork, within a complex project, is something I continue to seek for fulfillment. Thanks to all of you for the education, both that which came quickly and that which coalesced decades later.”

– Ned Corkran ’82 “I will never forget the combined feelings of absolute terror and pure joy, relief and

community,” says Chipman. “From past parents to alumni, volunteers have always

overwhelming accomplishment when that final

been a key ingredient to making the show a success. For more than 10 years, Mimi

curtain came down and another successful

Walsh, Fran Spivak and Marg Dunn have been our ‘costume moms,’ despite the fact

year of Showcase came to an end. The sense of

their own children graduated many years ago. This kind of dedication and support

teamwork and camaraderie that we shared in

is a testimony to the Tatnall family and one reason Showcase has thrived for a

Showcase defined my years at Tatnall and should

half century.”

be a model for every high school, business and

Answering the question posed by this year’s show, Chipman says that while life

any other organization that attempts to bring

may indeed have enough drama of its own, theater allows for the transportation of both

people together in common purpose.”

its actors and audience to a fictitious world of colorful characters where one’s own

– Becky Rovner Galler ’82

trials and tribulations are forgotten.

“Throughout my four years in Showcase, I’ve learned so much about myself, others and theater. This group is a bunch of individuals who have formed a strong bond and have been supportive of each other, on and off stage. It’s been an experience that I will cherish for a long time.”

– Savannah Harrow ’14 “While I may not be acting for a career, the lessons I learned in Showcase are with me every day—working as a team, pursuit of excellence and the importance of creativity and the arts in whatever one pursues. Congratulations on reaching a milestone!”

– Marc Paul ’87 Spring | 7

The

Tatnall Spirit “…In their concern for the total individual, our faculty recognizes and respects each student’s unique intellectual, emotional, social, physical and spiritual needs and gifts.”

– Tatnall Mission Statement

W

hen she founded The Tatnall School 83 years ago, Frances D.S. Tatnall instilled

in it values and principles she felt contributed to the development of well-rounded global citizens.

Living out the mission in every division ■■

that are different from one’s own through show and tell, music,

for the school and are ever-present in the daily

literature and the celebration of holidays. These practices help

life of Tatnall, including one that makes the

young children develop empathy toward one other, as well as an

school particularly unique: spirituality.

In a world where education and religion

understanding of the diverse world in which they live.

■■

The Lower School is the perfect place to expose children to a

are forbidden to mix beyond parochial schools,

variety of customs, traditions and beliefs. Children at this age are

Tatnall’s approach to the subject sets it apart.

curious and welcoming, and they relish sharing their own personal

It is rooted in the belief that to fully educate

traditions, both religious and secular, as well as learning about

students, religion must not be excluded from the

and celebrating their classmates’ traditions. Student-led morning

list of scholarly topics. While religion is not an

exercises continue a tradition begun by Mrs. Tatnall. It follows her

individual class or subject of study, Tatnall honors

design and includes prayers, readings and songs.

and explores diverse beliefs and traditions and

■■

The Middle School incorporates an appreciation for diversity at a

does not shy away from recognizing the many

deeper level. Its “character education” includes discussions about

different beliefs represented in its student body.

honesty, cooperation, humility, patience, courage, creativity,

This fall, a Spirituality Committee was

environmental awareness, peace and freedom. These concepts

formed and charged with reviewing Tatnall’s

are put into action through community service projects. Studies of

spiritual practices to report on the continued

different religions—Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, Judaism and

success and vibrancy of Mrs. Tatnall’s vision.

Encouraging students to bring their whole selves

Islam—are incorporated into the Middle School curriculum.

■■

In the Upper School, students prepare to enter the ‘real world,’

to school and understanding that religion shapes

where they will encounter people who have different religions,

our world views, Tatnall continues to uphold

values, backgrounds, beliefs and cultural norms. The study of

her vision.

beliefs and values is woven into a number of classes that deal with

Describing her grandmother, Mrs. Tatnall,

religion and culture.

Caroline Tatnall Ketcham ’58 says, “She was

Principles and values

truly a religious woman, one brought up in the

such as compassion care

■■

Linda Champagne, Preschool

church, back when attendance at Sunday morning

for the disadvantaged

■■

Lisa Coldiron, Lower School

services was only the beginning of a family’s

and global responsibility

■■

Chris Holler, Lower School

weekly obligations. I can’t actually speak to her

are integrated into

■■

Lisa Kane, Middle School

inner thoughts about religion…but I’m certain

community service

■■

Sandra Idstein, Upper School

that she would be generous, curious and tolerant,

projects and club

■■

Stephen Marvin, Board of Trustees

ever-open to other religious practices. She was

activities, such as the

■■

David Woods, Board of Trustees

religious in the sense of living a Christian life,

Jefferson Awards and

■■

rather than setting a conscious, proselytizing

Amnesty International.

Ann Wick, Board of Trustees past president

example for others.”

8

In the Preschool, teachers create a sense of awareness about beliefs

Today, they continue to provide the foundation

| Tatnall Today

Spirituality Committee

CATCHING

Up

Founder’s Day | Grandparents and Special Friends Day Always one of the most anticipated and exciting days of the year, Founder’s Day was again full of choral and instrumental performances as the entire school came together to celebrate Mrs. Tatnall. In the annual tradition preceding the Founder’s Day ceremony, grandparents filled the campus as students showcased their classrooms and recent achievements.

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1. Upper School student Marc Paul performing in the ceremony. 2. Middle School students perform at Founder’s Day. 3. Choir performing at Founder’s Day. 4. Linda Saad. 5. Lower School students perform at Founder’s Day. 6. Kate McConnel celebrating Special Friends’ Day with her grandfather. 7. Members of the Upper School choir perform at Founder’s Day. Spring |

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1. The annual Upper School Choral Concert, directed by Wilson Somers and Noelle Levy, is one of many highly anticipated holiday events each year. 2. Preschoolers Mason Kohl and Julia Wilson engage in interactive learning with an iPad. 3. Perfecting his letters, preschooler Lincoln Yalamanchili focuses intently at the Smart Board. 4. Students show off their costumes during the Lower School Halloween Parade. 5. Jack Wilkinson concentrates on playing the trumpet during band.

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10 6. Seventh grader Mitch Moyer having fun and celebrating the completion of his bird project presentation. 7. Each year, the Lower School participates in the Ministry of Caring Service Project. Paige Hiller, Carolyn Walker, Eliza O’Neil and Chloe Abel teamed up to carefully select their books to fill their gift bags.

The gift bags, filled with mittens, gloves, books and toys were then delivered by the students to the Ministry of Caring. 8. Members of the junior class celebrate during the traditional ring ceremony. 9. David Crossland works in the computer lab.

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10. Each month, 7th grade students head down to the Preschool as part of the PALS program. Seventh grader Max Brogdon and Jack McKelvey take a break from their project for a photo opportunity. 11. P.J. Leary, Ike Osuagwu, Michael Flanagan, Jason Kramer, Drew Kerr and Joy Lee reunite on the first day of class. 12. Led by Middle School science teacher Karen Barker, students explore Tatnall’s 110-acre campus as part of the environmental science program. 13. Laura Taschner working with clay during art class. 14. Middle School students get their hands dirty in the on-campus garden. 15. With sleds at the ready nearly all winter, Nicolas Pizarro and his classmates enjoyed the transformation of campus into a winter wonderland by sledding during recess. 16. Thanksgiving in the Lower School can only mean one thing—bread, applesauce and butter making!

Through this tradition many decades strong, students apply the skills and knowledge they have acquired in the classroom to the kitchen to help prepare the feast. (Pictured left to right: Kirayanni Prince and Benjamin Mongare) 17. Will Copeland and Elliot Ward hard at work in the chemistry lab. 18. Seniors Elizabeth Schreiber, Shay Cannon, Jennifer Davis, Meredith Huffman and Cynthia Sellar proudly claim the 2013-2014 spirit stick for the senior class during Homecoming Week. 19. Lower School students catch up between classes.

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CATCHING

Up

Playbill Playbill 2013 presented Stephen Sondheim’s familyfriendly musical, “Into the Woods.” The dramatic mashup of Grimm’s classic fairytales, such as “Cinderella,” “Rapunzel,” “Jack and the Beanstalk” and “Little Red Riding Hood,” was not only one of the most challenging productions in years, but a crowd favorite.

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1. Members of the cast listen in fear as the witch gives orders.

2. Kennelly Forgue, left, Chase Boardman, Meredith Huffman and Ian Edstrom 3. Elise Brown, left, and Taylor Reed

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8th Grade Play With a lot of hard work and deadlinedriven prop construction, line memorization, choreography and music rehearsals, the 8th grade students pulled off another amazing one-week theater performance, “The

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Little Mermaid.” The musical was a fun and upbeat show that brought some of Disney’s most beloved characters to life in the Laird Performing Arts Center. Congratulations to all the students and faculty on another successful year!

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4. T he crew of Prince Eric’s ship, led by pilot Chase Boardman, sail singing “Fathoms Below.”

5. F lounder, Ariel, Sebastian and King Triton (played by Jeffrey Crossland, left, Alexa O’Neil, Nadine Mongare and Trey Jones) discuss Ariel’s adventure to the surface.

6. U rsula, the sea witch, played by Edward Saad, left, Bill Carroll, Shelby BaileySmiley, Danielle Cuoco, Ansel Tessier, Anna McKelvey and Ellen Zammarchi.

7. T he cast of sea creatures join Sebastian, played by Nadine Mongare, in the beloved song “Under the Sea.”

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Student Achievements Amanda Hurd ’14, Richie Lou ’14, Will Margolin ’14 and David Ostrowski ’14 were named finalists in the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test competition.

Maggie Catanzaro ’15, Margaret Crivelli ’15, Ian Edstrom ’14, Nicole Foley ’14 and Abigail Riegel ’14 won awards in the Delaware Foundation for the Visual Arts “2014 Excellence in Drawing” statewide competition.

Tatnall claimed the most awards of any school in the state of Delaware for the second consecutive year.

Six Middle School students were selected for the Delaware All-State Junior Choir—Bill Carroll ’18, Danielle Cuoco ’18, Brooke Dennison ’18, Sasha Jernakoff ’19, Elizabeth Hamilton ’19 and Caroline James ’18.

Of the 500 students who auditioned for the All-State Junior Choir, only 130 students were selected.

Fourth grader Sophia Ramunno won this year’s Spring Day T-Shirt Design Contest.

Tatnall Upper School fine art students won 62 awards in the Delaware Regional Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, the largest number in Tatnall’s history. Students won awards in nearly every category of the competition, including, for the first time, animation. In total, Tatnall students won 10 Gold Keys, 18 Silver Keys and 34 Merit Awards—more than any other private school in the state!

The 2013 Tatnall Triangle Yearbook won an award for “Outstanding Theme” from the American Press Association and was awarded a Silver Medal from the Columbia Scholastic Press Association.

Members of the 2013 editorial staff included Jessica McDowell ’13 (editor-

in-chief), Grace Wagner ’13 (people/ clubs editor), Peggy Bayard ’13 (academics editor), Simone Williams ’15 (athletics editor), J.J. del Rosario ’13 (events editor) and Marianna Barbieri ’13 (interdivisional editor). Stephanie Silverman and Charles Umiker are the faculty advisors for the publication.

The 2014 Tatnall Mock Trial Team finished sixth in the state at the Delaware High School Mock Trial Competition. Members of the 2014 team included Olivia Daniels ’16, Kaitlin Fischer ’14, Dana Holloway ’14, Julia Kelly ’15, Donald Kerr ’16, David Klemens ’16, Jason Kramer ’16, Alex Lintner ’15, Christina Morgan ’15, Marc Paul ’16, Emily Rose ’16, Molly Soja ’17, Monty Thornburn ’16 and Mia Wilson ’15. Holloway and Morgan received gavels for “Best Attorney” in the team’s first and fourth rounds, while Wilson and Kramer earned gavels for “Best Witness” during the second and third rounds.

CATCHING

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Senior Ian Edstrom claimed second place in the “Senior Paint Out” competition sponsored by the Children’s Beach House, a local nonprofit serving children with special needs, and was awarded a $1,000 scholarship to further his arts education.

Twelve Upper School students— MinQi Cai ’16, Alice Huang ’15, Talia Kramer ’15, Kate Lin ’14, Richie Lou ’14, Amanda Meixner ’16, Kristen Newton ’15, David Ostrowski ’14, Teresa Pan ’16, John Roberts ’14, Emily Rose ’16 and Joe Tigani ’14— competed in the Delaware Science Olympiad High School Tournament and placed 12th out of the 59-team field with several student pairs placing among the top 10.

Elise Brown ’15, Ian Edstrom ’14, Niha Khatri ’15, Lauren Lewis ’15, Kristen Newton ’15 and Munachi Osegbu ’14 were all featured artists in the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth inaugural nationwide high school art competition. Additionally, Brown’s piece, “Into the Light,” was named the first place national winner.

Seventh grade student Andrew Sontchi joined a select group of middle school students from the U.S. and abroad who were recognized by the Johns Hopkins University Center for Talented Youth for their performance on the SAT, ACT and similar tests.

Junior Margaret Crivelli was awarded a scholarship from The Delaware Art Education Association at the 2014 Scholastic Art Awards gallery exhibition for her drawing “Made in America.”

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Fall 2013

Athletic Highlights FIELD HOCKEY The deep and experienced squad had another impressive season. The ladies won the Independent Conference championship and advanced to the final four in the DIAA State Tournament before being narrowly edged out in the semifinals. Finishing the year with a 13-2 record, the team was led by senior Shay Cannon, first team all-state; Elise Brown, second team all-state; and Jennifer Davis, honorable mention all-state. Senior Cynthia Sellar did an excellent job captaining the team alongside Cannon and Davis, providing a

New Castle County Championship and the Division II State Championship, setting a state record for not only the lowest team score in state meet history, but also the lowest average time by any team in Delaware history. Junior Stephen Garrett was this year’s state champion, who set a new state record for the fastest time ever run on the Killen’s Pond 5K course with a time of 15:31. Garrett went on to qualify for the Nike Cross Country National Championship in Portland, Oregon, where he ran against the best in the nation, placing 90th out of 196 who qualified!

great example for the younger Hornets both on and off the

Girls – After graduating seven top runners from the

field. Nine girls were honored as either first or second team all-

2013 team, this year’s team members found themselves

conference, showing the depth and talent on the roster.

regrouping and figuring themselves out during the first

CROSS COUNTRY

half of the season. They experienced injury and illness, but rebounded in championship fashion, rising to the occasion

Boys – The 2014 season was arguably the greatest in Tatnall

when it mattered most. For the first time in many years,

history. The season began with a huge win in the Cherokee

the varsity seven—Caroline Foley, Kieran Hanrahan, Kate

Challenge in Marlton, New Jersey. As the season progressed,

Hastings, Jill Reinhardt, Kendra Riley, Liz Schreiber

the team traveled to New York, North Carolina and

and Quinn Teklits—arrived at the state championship as

Pennsylvania, and one student-athlete traveled all the way to

underdogs to a strong St. Andrew’s team. These girls made

the National Championship in Portland, Oregon. The varsity

history at Killen’s Pond when they won their 11th consecutive

seven—Ben Boswell, Michael Flanagan, Joey Garrett,

state championship. This small group of girls, led by team

Stephen Garrett, Jack Hagood (captain), Patrick Lynch

captains Jen Carr and Nicole Foley, came together and

and Henry Paul (captain)—won the DISC Championship, the

made our entire Tatnall community proud.

14 | Tatnall Today

FOREWARD

From the Head of School

FOOTBALL The team struggled through a 3-7 season with a young, enthusiastic squad that improved over the course of the season. The season ended on a high note, as the team won two of its three final games, including a victory over conference rival St. Andrew’s in the traditional Cannon Game.

in-conference match in 10 years. Juliano and Wolfs were

Freshman Sam Ragland concluded a fantastic first season

named first team all-conference. Senior Erin Dodds was

with more than 200 yards on the ground. Sophomore Drew

named to the second team, and Lodge was named to the

Kobasa threw two touchdowns, both to freshman tight

third team. It was a great year, and the team looks forward to

end Oliver Campbell. Senior Tyler Taschner was named

an exciting future.

first team all-state as a punter, and several Hornets were recognized with all-conference mentions. The future is

SOCCER

certainly bright for the Hornets on the gridiron, as the team

This year was a rebuilding season for the team, as it finished

returns the majority of starters on both sides of the ball.

the season 4-9-2. Senior captains Tom Smith and Tyler

VOLLEYBALL

Maron led the deep squad that worked hard throughout the year and showed great improvement from start to finish. A

Finishing with a 10-5 record and ranked 21st in the state, the

dominant 4-1 win over conference rival Wilmington Friends

Hornets had a standout year and narrowly missed the state

was a huge highlight of a beautiful Homecoming Saturday.

tournament. The squad was led by a deep and experienced

Smith and junior Aubrey Kingston were named first and

trio of senior captains in Emily Juliano, Madison Lodge and

second team all-state, in addition to first team all-conference.

Danielle Wolfs. With four other seniors on the roster, the

Senior Terran Mardis, Maron and junior goalkeeper Marcus

team battled all year and had many memorable moments.

Thornburn were named second team all-conference. With

A three-set win over Wilmington Friends at home was the

several young players gaining valuable varsity experience this

highlight of the season, as the Quakers had not lost an

year, the team is looking forward to next year.

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Winter 2013

Athletic Highlights GIRLS BASKETBALL

Karl Holler and Rajae

The 2013-2014 season was another memorable year for

Muhammad in the paint.

the girls basketball team. The winter season is typically long

Freshman Nic Cutrona

and full of ups and downs, injuries, sickness, success and

provided a great deal

adversity—this season was no different. The Lady Hornets

of needed scoring, and major contributions

finished 10-10, 7-2 in conference, narrowly missing a spot in

were made by junior Demetrius Davis, sophomore Davis

what would have been their third straight state tournament

Mitchell, freshmen Oliver Campbell and Jeremiah Wing,

appearance. The Hornets defeated every team in the

juniors James Allen and Marcus Thornburn, and eighth-

conference, except for state title contender Sanford. The

grade point guard Andre Ward. The team is excited to work

Hornets said goodbye to arguably one of the most influential

hard this summer and bounce back next year on

girls basketball players in school history in Senior Erin Dodds,

the hardwood.

who finished second all-time in school history for scoring with 1,437 career points. More importantly, Tatnall will miss

SWIMMING

her hard work, dedication, competitive spirit and leadership.

The swim team completed a very successful season that

With the team losing only one senior, however, its future

included consistent improvement. Many personal bests

looks very bright. The Hornets return seven varsity players

were achieved over the course of the season, and multiple

and will look to add more talent coming up through the JV

boys and girls competed in the DIAA State Championships.

and middle school programs.

The boys team finished 15th in the state and was led by

BOYS BASKETBALL

senior Michael Mariner and sophomore David Crossland.

Crossland was named “Swimmer of the Year” in Delaware

Garnering only a pair of wins on the season, the team used

and also awarded first team all-state and all-conference

this year to build a very young roster. The team, featuring five

recognition. Mariner was named second team all-

freshmen and an eighth grader in the rotation, worked hard

conference. The girls team finished 21st in the state and had

all year, shining light on the bright future ahead. Captained

three swimmers recognized on the first or second team all-

by talented seniors Brandon Goodge, Nyjil Hayward

conference. Emilie Hager was named to the first team,

and sharp shooter junior Ian Cella-Hoffman, the young

and Katie Mariner and Samantha Steblai were both

Hornets gained invaluable experience over the course of a

second team honorees. The proud swimming tradition at

challenging season. Senior Pierre Aden provided unmatched

Tatnall continues, and the team thanks its seniors for a

hustle and intensity in mentoring talented freshmen big men

terrific year.

16 | Tatnall Today

WRESTLING While small in number, the wrestling team was large on success this season. Senior captain Patrick Lynch led the team, compiling an impressive 17-4 overall record. He finished in third place in the Brandywine Bulldog Invitational and won the DISC Tournament in a fierce overtime battle, where he was named “Outstanding Wrestler.” He also qualified for and competed in the state tournament. The entire team had an impressive season that culminated with recognition of every member on the academic all-state team.

P.J. Leary was named second team academic all-state, while Ben von Duyke, Philip Jenks, Justin Leary and Lynch were all named honorable mention academic all-state. It was a tremendous year for the program, and the team is excited to get back on the mats next winter.

INDOOR TRACK & FIELD Boys – This year’s season was one we will remember for a long time. On February 21, the team won the Indoor Track and Field State Championship, thanks to a determined second-place finish by the 4x400-meter relay team of Rhett Anderson, Jack Hagood, Aubrey Kingston and Terran Mardis and the outstanding performances of every member on Tatnall’s small squad. State champions include

Stephen Garrett (3200 meters), Hagood (1600 meters) and the 4x800-relay team of Ben Boswell, Michael Flanagan, Hagood and Henry Paul. Paul had a tremendous state championship, placing second in the 800 meters with a personal lifetime best performance of 2:01.95. Other big contributors included Nick Robinson with a third-place finish in shot put, sophomore Joey Garrett with a fourth in the 3200 meters and Paul with a fifth in the 3200 meters.

Additionally, Mardis and Kingston earned key team points by placing fifth each in triple jump and 400 meters, respectively.

Girls – With snow and ice on the track for most of the season, our teams had to get creative to be at their best by season’s end. They used plowed roads, indoor sled pulls and treadmills to get themselves ready for the weekend indoor races. Earning sixth place as a team at the state meet, the team saw many top performances. Freshman Quinn Teklits burst on the scene in her first track season to place sixth in the state championship mile with a personal best time of 5:22.86, while Kieran Hanrahan placed seventh with a time of 5:28.88. The two also competed in the 3200 meters, where Hanrahan ran the toughest race of her season to place third with a time of 11:41.67 and Teklits took seventh with a time of 11:50.68. The 4x800-relay team of Kayla Boswell, Kate Hastings, Jill Reinhardt and Liz Schreiber placed third in the state with a season-best time of 10:04.37.

Despite the challenging weather, each student-athlete continued to improve throughout the year.

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Divisional

Updates Preschool Update Savannah Harrow ’14 The halfday Preschool program began a new practice this year to help students transition to school by adding an extra hour in the school day so they can have lunch with their classmates. The extra time also gives them more opportunities to interact with teachers, which eases them into the routine of attending school every day.

The Preschool is taking advantage of partnership opportunities with older students—and the benefits work both ways. For example, Tatnall’s 5th and 6th graders who are brand new at playing a musical instrument are invited to our monthly Tatnall Tunes event. Middle School students gain performance experience, while preschoolers gain a

wider appreciation for music, as well as an understanding of the mechanics of how to play instruments.

An important goal in the Preschool program is to instill a love for writing, as well as for books. This year, Kindergarten students were able to participate in a tremendously exciting project by writing and illustrating classroom books. The students started the project on paper and then the Preschool faculty made it digital, using tablets.

“Kindergarten faces light up with pride and joy when they see their illustrations on the Smart Board and hear themselves read.

Children can also share their digital books at home with their parents,” says Mrs. Aimee Neff, head of Preschool.

This year, a new nature trail was added to help students explore woodland and stream ecology. With Preschool science teacher Nancy Flanagan leading the way, students for years to come will enjoy Tatnall’s nature-friendly campus.

Lower School Update Kassidy McIntosh-Charlton ’15 The Lower School helps build students’ writing skills by

Middle School Update Amanda Meixner ’16 Middle School is a time of great change, when Tatnall students are given as many opportunities as possible to explore their interests through music, sports, the arts and a variety of academic clubs and athletics.

Lindsay McConnel, our history teacher, introduced a new program in the 8th grade curriculum to enable students to choose among several unique electives, including Technical Theatre, Health and Nutrition, Yoga and Pilates, News Production, Law and Order and Introduction to Athletic Training and Injury. During those classes, guest speakers shared their knowledge and personal experiences to increase students’ learning.

“These electives allowed 8th grade students to see that their reading, research, writing and creative skills have application across a wide range of topics,” said Stephen Esmond, head of the Middle School.

This year, musical and theatrical talent was not hard to find. Six students were accepted into the prestigious Delaware

providing numerous opportunities for them to collaborate on

Junior All-State Choir. The much-awaited

grade-level teams to share learning goals.

6th grade play, “The Wizard of Oz,” was a

For example, first graders have worked hard all year on their

comedic performance, and everyone who

“Daily Five” routines, self-selecting “good fit books,” building

watched reveled in the great talent of both

their reading stamina and working on their CAFÉ strategies.

Middle Schoolers and Mr. Ian Sikdar, Global

Second graders began their year with an “exploration” of Italy. Students wrote travel

Studies teacher. Additionally, the 8th grade’s

logs, learned about the culture and landmarks and finished out the unit with a traditional

rendition of “The Little Mermaid” was one of

Italian feast. This semester, they will study China, Kenya and Mexico.

the best vocal performances to date, as many

During the first trimester, third graders took a step back in time, starting with the study of Native Americans. They recently completed their Famous Persons’ Day project, a 40-year Tatnall tradition, in which they researched a famous historical figure and made a presentation dressed as that individual.

Fourth graders began the year focusing on the World War II era. Reading stories about

of the all-state choir members starred in the show.

The Middle School gained many new teachers this year: Mrs. Kay-Ann Boswell, math teacher; Mrs. Marcia Merena-Conkey,

Japanese internment camps, they learned about the lives of Japanese immigrants through

English teacher; Ms. Janae Dupree, science

narratives and memoirs.

teacher; Ms. Megan Weiss, art teacher; and

Several new projects debuted this year, including the Tatnall Harvest, a fourth-grade project in coordination with The Barnes Foundation, the Ministry of Caring project, the Native Plants Garden and the greenhouse in the back of the Lower School, an exciting new addition.

18 | Tatnall Today

Ms. Taleah Kennedy, a Tatnall alumna who teaches Spanish.

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Upper School Update Savannah Harrow ’14 It’s been a year of many changes for the Upper School. For example, we experimented with a new class schedule that would coincide better with the Middle School’s day. The annual freshman retreat to Echo Hill took place before school started so new students could meet their peers before starting their year. The senior class trip to New York City, normally scheduled in March, was moved to December to reward the seniors after their college application process.

Upper School students’ extracurricular activities and clubs have been extremely successful. At the Science Olympiad, 12 students competed in 11 different events, earning four top-10 awards and a sixth-place finish—a great showing, given this was the first time Tatnall participated in this event.

Seniors Take Fun, Learning Bite Out of the Big Apple For nearly 20 years, each senior class has traveled to New York City for a one-day class trip. Under the guidance of Upper School science teacher and guidance counselor Sandra Idstein, the trip is designed to be not only a fun day for seniors, but an opportunity to learn by experience.

“The senior trip started as a fun way to introduce students to educational experiences outside the walls of Tatnall,” says Idstein.

“The day is jam-packed with both educational and entertainment components. It is my goal to incorporate learning through cultural experiences impossible to achieve in a

Leaving at 6:30 a.m. and not returning until

second year in a row at World Café Live at

1:30 a.m. the next morning, the students

the Queen. Also, students won a total of 62

visited Rockefeller Center (NBC Studios and

awards in the Delaware Regional Scholastic

ice skating), the Hayden Planetarium at the

Art & Writing Awards program, which was

American Museum of Natural History, Carnegie

the largest number in Tatnall’s history. State

Deli, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) and

titles for athletics include Boys and Girls

Broadway. While activities vary from year to

Cross Country and Boys Indoor Track

year, Rockefeller Center, MoMA and Broadway

and Field.

are traditions.

The class of 2014 is an active group and anxious about their future. Out of the 57 seniors, 100 percent will be attending college.

“It’s been a good year,” says Mrs. Sarah Baylin, head of Upper School, “with students working harder than ever. We are so proud of all the students and everything they do!”

– Abigail Kaiser ’14

classroom setting.”

The Coffee House Club performed for the

of young men and women who are excited

“ The trip is a great experience because we, as seniors, have the chance to celebrate how far we have come as a class. It is a fun opportunity to connect as a group during the winter of one of the most exciting years of our lives to date.”

It is the overall experience with their classmates that Idstein hopes the seniors will cherish. Whether it is learning to navigate the maze of NYC subways or experiencing a larger-than-life sandwich at Carnegie Deli, students return to campus with yet another

“ The senior trip was especially memorable for me because I found out about my admittance to college on the trip. It was just after we saw “Matilda,” and I had all of my friends around me in Times Square.

It was a great way to end the day!”

– Dana Holloway ’14

life experience from which to learn.

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Faculty

Q&A

Q&A with Sharon Vandiver When admissions coordinator Sharon Vandiver is not at Tatnall, she can be found hard at work writing books three and four of her five-book series. Using the pen name S.A. Van, Vandiver is the author of The Counter Series, a five-book fiction and suspense series. With the first two books—Counterplay and Counteract—published in 2012, Vandiver is currently working on book three, Counterpoint, and book four, Counterbalance. With an anticipated publication date of late 2014, Vandiver is already looking ahead to her next series.

For Tatnall Teach the Learning Nev In November, Dr. Bruce Chipman, Upper School English teacher, department head and founder of the Upper School film curriculum, attended a symposium on “The Films of Oliver Stone.” He participated in seminar discussions on four aspects of Stone’s movies: history and biography, aesthetics, musical scoring and war.

The conference ended with a keynote address and question-and-answer session with Oliver Stone himself.

Q: What inspired you to begin writing?

A: I’m an avid reader of suspense novels, and I’ve always enjoyed writing. Years ago, I wrote several plays that were performed at a local church. It was always a goal of mine to write a book, and now I’m in the midst of writing a series!

Q: How would you describe the series?

A: All five books of The Counter Series are suspense thrillers, as kidnapping, murder and seduction provide new twists and turns at

DAEE Conference: Laurel Leary, third from left, and Karen Barker, fourth from left

every corner for main character Jenna Reed. Set in Cape May, New

Laurel Leary, Middle School science and

Jersey, the book features various locales and establishments in Cape

computer teacher, and Karen Barker, Middle

May and the surrounding areas.

School science teacher, attended the annual

Q: What is most challenging about being an author?

Delaware Association for Environmental Education

A: There are actually three challenges in being an author. First is finding enough hours in the day. Working full-time and writing parttime has become quite a balancing act, and I’ve learned to become very good at time management. Setting aside time to write while taking care of a family and home presents many challenges, but when I’m holding a published book for the first time, it’s well worth the time sacrifices.

Second, every series author wants to keep his/her audience on the edge of their seats awaiting the next installment. To that end, it’s necessary to make the subsequent novels in a series just as exciting (or more so!) than the previous one. Third, because the publishing world is constantly evolving with new ways of marketing books through author websites, reader sites and social media, it’s hard to keep up with all the updates. Maintaining content on various sites is almost a full-time job unto itself.

20 | Tatnall Today

conference in February. Doug Tallamy, the keynote speaker, discussed native plantings and how to make a positive impact on nature. As a result of connections made at this conference, Peg Baseden from New Castle County Master Gardeners visited Tatnall to help the 5th grade create and plant a “Monarch way station” to attract monarch butterflies and feed them on their migration route.

Six Tatnall teachers—Heather Brooks, Lower School librarian and reading teacher; Ramona Dowling, first grade teacher; Nancy Flanagan, Preschool science and technology teacher; Colleen Hoban, Preschool teacher; Greg Mentzer, Lower School science teacher and Debbie Richards, Lower School computer teacher—attended the “iPads in Education Conference” at the University of Delaware for PreK through 16 educators in October.

The conference covered the topics of e-book authoring, interactive learning and art on the iPad.

hers, ver Stops

FACULTY

Notes Sarah Mentzer, second from right in the front row, sitting in front of the mosaic mural installation

In September, Upper School director of college counseling

This summer, Upper School history teacher Jennifer

Leigh Morgan traveled to the National Association of College

Ripel will participate in the Walden Woods Project, a six-day,

Admissions Counselors Annual Conference in Toronto,

interdisciplinary, professional development seminar for high

Canada, with admissions officers and college counselors from

school teachers. The workshop takes place at Walden Pond

around the globe to discuss trends in college admissions. The

State Reservation in Concord, Massachusetts, and focuses

conference covered changes to the Common Application and

on the writings of Henry David Thoreau and his philosophies

potential changes to the PSAT and SAT tests coming in the

relating to social reform and environmental issues. In

fall of 2015 and spring 2016, respectively.

addition to daily discussions with the group, participants will hear from experts in the areas of natural history, writing,

Lower School librarian and reading teacher Heather

literary analysis, art and the environment.

Brooks is currently enrolled in the second class of her doctoral program at the University of Delaware. Pursuing her

Lower School art teacher Sarah Mentzer participated in a

Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, she expects to graduate in

workshop with Isaiah Zagar, famed mosaic mural artist and

four to six years by taking one class each semester. “I want to

creator of the Philadelphia Magic Gardens, in October. She

stay current with the best teaching and learning practices,”

worked in collaboration with Zagar and other artists and

she said. “It is important to see how other schools are

educators to complete a large-scale mosaic mural installation

working through complex educational problems, because it

in South Philadelphia.

helps to define our own strategies at Tatnall. I hope to inspire my students and daughter to love learning and be active

Preschool associate teacher Karen Stratman completed the Delaware Nature Society’s Teacher Naturalist Series in

participants in their own growth.”

December. The 60-hour course included the following topics In her seventh appearance at the Wilmington Art Loop,

of the Piedmont region: mammals, terrestrial ecosystems,

Preschool art teacher Cyntaya Welch was featured in April

reptiles and amphibians, birds, insects, wildflowers, trees and

when her artwork was featured, as well as the work of Tatnall

shrubs and aquatic ecosystems.

preschool artists making their Art Loop debut. The students joined Welch in displaying their 3-D recycled sculptural paintings at the downtown Wilmington Library.

Upper and Middle School choral teacher Noelle Levy took part in the Ladybug Festival, the annual all-female music night, at World Café Live at the Queen in March. The event,

Cross country and track and

dubbed “Ladyfingers,” featured Levy, along with six other

field head coach Patrick Castagno

talented local musicians who took turns playing a concert for

delivered a presentation to coaches

a packed house on a baby grand piano.

from across the world on program Stephanie Silverman’s best

development for his respective sports

practice presentation, “Strategies

during the International Coaching Enrichment Certification Program at

Pat Castagno

for Success: Implementing

the University of Delaware. Created by the United States

Technology-Based Art Practices

Olympic Committee and the University of Delaware, this

into the Secondary Curriculum,”

program provides national-level coaches the opportunity

was accepted for inclusion in the

to develop proficiency in the areas of sport sciences, talent

National Art Education Association’s

identification, athlete development, coaching education,

2014 convention. The proposal

coaching management, grass roots sport development and

process is highly competitive. Silverman’s presentation

the ethical aspects of coaching across all sports and levels.

highlighted how she incorporates technology and digital art-making tools to enhance and extend the studio art experience in the Upper School’s Fine Arts program.

Spring | 21

STUDENT

Travel

Denmark Exchange

Over spring break, Upper School English teacher Jennifer Ripel and Upper School history teacher William Schluter led nine Upper School students on a trip of a lifetime to Denmark and England as part of the exchange program with Skive Gymnasium. Skive Gymnasium is the equivalent of an American preparatory high school whose students go on to attend four-year university programs.

This year marked the third year the two schools have partnered up to provide students

2013-2014 Denmark Exchange Participants

international experiences.

The exchange program begins in the fall, when students from Skive are welcomed by Tatnall host families and spend one week in Delaware. This year, 25 Danish students toured campus, attended classes and toured the area, visiting Mid-Atlantic tourist destinations such

■■

Dhruv Patel ’16

as Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia. Tatnall then completes the exchange over spring

■■

Emily Rose ’16

break as its students travel to Denmark.

■■

Julia Kelly ’15

■■

Kennelly Forgue ’16

cities on the trip, they also spent one week on campus at Skive Gymnasium attending

■■

Kristen Newton ’15

classes and living with their Danish host families. Sitting in on various courses and visiting

■■

Lori Lord-Jackson ’15

local museums, the students experienced new teaching techniques and got a taste of the

■■

Marguerite Davis ’15

world outside the United States.

■■

Nina Urbat ’17

■■

Sydney Castagna ’16

While the Tatnall students had their fair share of fun sightseeing and exploring new

“Skive Gymnasium has an international perspective on education,” says Schluter.

“They focus on international relations, media, language, business and history to prepare students for the current global challenges posed by society.”

At Tatnall, the importance of international travel as part of a well-rounded curriculum cannot be understated. While classroom lectures and activities can introduce students to the world around them, nothing can open one’s eyes like the cultural immersion of studying abroad.

“I think it is very easy for our students to fall into the trap of believing that their reality is everyone’s reality,” says Ripel. “These travel exchanges enable students to step out of their own situations and gain awareness of the world outside their own little bubbles. While there are many things that they prefer about Denmark, I often find that they return more appreciative of their own good fortune at home. They seem to gain compassion when they step into another student’s shoes across the ocean, and to me, this seems to be the greatest benefit of all.”

According to Ripel, it is also the little and unpredicted observations that have lasting impressions on the students.

“The students are always surprised at how much smaller everything is—cars, homes and food portions. Additionally, the students at Skive tend to have a lot more independence and responsibility. The majority hold jobs outside school and some even live on their own.”

Faculty advisors Bill Schluter and Jennifer Ripel

22 | Tatnall Today

As these students have learned, traveling abroad is full of educational moments at every twist and turn.

Community Starts Here

ALUMNI

In the News

Bikes are a passion of Jamie Magee ’89. The Tatnall graduate has turned that passion into a community bike shop—and a platform to promote not only cycling, but sustainability and community building.

Founded in 2011 by Magee and eight other Newark community members—Niki de Leon, Justin de Leon, Rob Rehrig, Chris Richard, Tyler Jacobson, Amy Roe, Harrison Stigler and Gabriel Bisio—the

“To work toward sustainability through emphasizing three things: Community, Education and Empowerment.”

Newark Bike Project (NBP) was the result

– Newark Bike Project Mission Statement

of a collective desire to bring a communityfocused bike coop, similar to the Urban Bike Project in Wilmington, to Newark.

For everyone from bike enthusiasts to beginners, the NBP is a nonprofit that offers repair services and access to professional tools and knowledgeable mechanics in a community setting. The organization also features a variety of bike workshops and programs, including the Free Bike Project and Repair Voucher Program, that supply free bikes and parts to those in financial need. With an emphasis on sustainability, this nonprofit is more than meets the eye.

“The different components of NBP are a direct result of the well-roundedness of the founders, and that was our intent from the beginning,” says Magee. “We wanted to use our space to bring together other community-minded people—those attending everything from community dinners and art shows to open-mic events and movie nights—from different facets of life that aren’t bike-related. We can then cultivate an interest in bikes and our sustainability efforts through these other community gatherings.”

NBP is run by a Newark communityelected board of directors; none of the original founders sit on the board, as further testament to the true volunteer spirit of the organization. Funding for the nonprofit comes from sales of used bikes donated by the community, along with financial

donations, grants and parts sales. An

“Passionate causes are a great way to

unorthodox business model, community

exercise your brain beyond your day job.

bike shops offer bike repair assistance in

It helps further develop you as a person

return for “requested shop-time donations”

and provides new skill sets,” Magee said.

and sell used bikes for revenue. Keeping

“For me, the Tatnall ‘family’ structure that

the tools in the customer’s hands is a key

resulted from having PreK through grade

component to the sustainability piece.

12 on one campus has caused me to treat

Instead of fixing the bikes themselves, NBP

people of all ages as peers, affording my

empowers its customers by teaching them

ease of working across different age levels.

how to do the repair.

I learned a bike repair tip from an 8th

Magee, who works from home in

grader, after which I insisted that his mother

Newark as a partner with Washington,

bring him in more often. They are now both

D.C.-based MartinScott Consulting,

regular volunteers.”

testifies to the true volunteer spirit of the organization.

“Although I was a founder, I am

Every Tuesday and Wednesday, open shop night provides further evidence that passion in action can yield big results. With

simply a volunteer now,” he said. “We

a typical night of up to 40 customers and

all decided to give up ownership from

15 volunteers, it’s clear Newark community

the beginning in order to make it a fully

members have taken notice. Furthermore,

community-run organization. NBP is

each new person through NBP’s door brings

completely dependent upon volunteers and

the next opportunity to initiate yet another

the interest of the community. Based on

community effort. Using the collective

a democratic structure, we want it to be

interest of bikes, the impact and efforts of

sustainable for the community at the same

NBP are as endless as the passions of those

time it promotes sustainable transportation

who walk through the front door.

options like cycling.”

Magee understands the importance of

For more information on NBP, please visit its website at www.newarkbikeproject.

using one’s passion to get involved in the

org. From donating your time, talents

community and attributes that awareness

or used bicycles (which are always in

to his positive experience in the Tatnall

demand!), there are many ways to get

community.

involved!

Spring | 23

ALUMNI

Reunion

Homecoming Weekend 2013 Campus was alive on Homecoming Saturday with Tatnall football, field hockey and soccer teams all in action. A large number of fans attended each event, helping to propel many of our teams to victory. Additionally, the alumni tent was busy with class reunions and reminiscing. Thank you to all who were in attendance!

1

2

3

5

6

4

7

1. Class of 2003 2. Class of 1973 3. Class of 1988 4. Jim Thomas, left, Laurie Ettinger, Faith Tomases and Linda Archangelo Sygowski, class of 1971, celebrating their 60th birthdays. 5. Newly engaged Amy Porter ’82 and Jeb Booge ’81. 6. Class of 1993 7. Deb MacIntyre Sheldon ’68 with her daughter Abby Williams Schneider ’97 and future Tatnall alum MacIntyre “Mac” David Schneider ’32.

24 | Tatnall Today

ALUMNI

Founder’s Society and Red Oak Legacy Society Reception

Reunion

The Founder’s Society and Red Oak Legacy Society reception was held in the Myers Building on October 24. With the event taking place on campus this year, participants learned more about Tatnall’s environmental science program. The annual appreciation event also recognized those individuals who have made planned gifts to the school and who have given a leadership gift of more than $1,000 per fiscal year to The Fund for Tatnall (previously known as the Annual Fund).

1

3

2

4

5

6 1. Karen Light, left, Stephen Marvin ’88, Catherine Marvin and Natalie Keenan 2. Meghan Malinawski, Diana McCulloch, Kim Zuleba and Andrew Malinawski 3. Rob and Christine Dehney, left, and Bonnie Copeland 4. Diane duPont and Dana Nestor 5. Phoebe Craven, left, Karen Light, Dr. Eric G. Ruoss, Pat Gugerty and Cindy Pettinaro Wilkinson ’88 6. Founder’s Society and Red Oak Legacy Society members pose for a group photo.

Spring | 25

ALUMNI

Reunion

Thanksgiving Eve Reception For nearly 10 years, Tatnall graduates have been reuniting and celebrating the holiday season on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving at the Annual Alumni Thanksgiving Eve Reception. With no set agenda or schedule, the reception provides the perfect venue to catch up with old

1

friends. Several Tatnall faculty have also made the event part of their holiday tradition to see former students who are back home for the holidays.

2

3

5

4

6

1. Patrick O’Hara ’06, left, Chris Varacchi ’06, Jonathan Silver ’06 and Arthur Helmick ’05 2. Rob Pamm ’08, left, Mary Lu Currin Pamm ’78, Roland Pamm and Chris Pamm ’06 3. Ari Leland ’09, left, Tom Anderson’s fiance, Neena Carter, Tom Anderson ’07 and Vanessa Nyemb ’06 4. Maddie Jolles ’06, left, with her guest Rick Willard and Megan Fischer ’09 5. Chip Ciconte ’97, left, Abby Williams Schneider ’97, Betsy Ciconte and Brian Carney ’97 6. Amanda Reese ’08, left, Rick Deadwyler ’89, Zach Reese ’08, Margaret Selsor ’08 and Todd Reese ’08

26 | Tatnall Today

Planned Giving

Four-Generation Tatnall Tradition

Profile

Valerie Wier Lee ’64 has been part of the Tatnall family for 63 years, and along with her late husband, Bud, they are members of a four-generation Tatnall legacy—a legacy that began when Val entered Preschool. Following in the footsteps of her older sister, March ’63, and leading the way for younger sister, Ginna ’69, Valerie spent her youth studying, playing and growing on Tatnall’s campus. The Wier girls’ father, Bob, served on the Tatnall Board of Trustees for 14 years, serving as President for a period of time. Valerie and Bud’s two sons, Carter ’89 and Walker ’93, as well as their grandsons, Hutch ’20 and Wils ’28, are also members of the Tatnall family.

Great-grandmother Virginia Wier occasionally visits to see the youngest Lees in Tatnall events. With ties that strong, Valerie recognizes the impact the school has had on her life.

“It is because of my Tatnall years that I am who I am today—years of growing up with teachers who loved to teach and receiving the daily reinforcement of core life values that became an internal foundation,” said Valerie.

She also credits her experiences at Tatnall for her business success as the 30-year owner of the Wilmington division of Carlisle Collection.

Although Bud was a Wilmington Friends School graduate, he left his own mark at Tatnall during his tenure as the Director of Development and 7th grade history teacher. Fully embracing the school until his death in 2012, Bud was always an ambassador for the school, embodying the Tatnall spirit.

This year, Val will be celebrating her 50th reunion in the fall—a historical one for the school as it is the first class of graduates that included boys. “Today, our class is closer than we thought we would be this far out,” Val said, “It comes as a nice surprise.”

However, it is no surprise that both Bud and Val committed to sustaining Tatnall’s future through their planned gifts and membership in the Red Oak Legacy Society. Tatnall is grateful for the four generations of Lee family partnership and all they have brought to the school.

To learn more about the many ways to establish a planned gift, please contact the Development Office at (302) 892-4333.

Spring | 27

The Fund for

Tatnall

WhyGive?...

The Fund for Tatnall

helps bridge the gap between tuition and the actual cost of educating Tatnall students. Each year, the unrestricted gifts contributed to

In a recent survey of alumni, parents of alumni and grandparents who have given to Tatnall over the years, we posed a very simple question:

Q.

What inspires you to give (time, resources and treasures) to Tatnall?

Using a new online crowdsourcing tool called waggl, the creation of Michael Papay ’94, participants were able to share their experiences and motivation for giving back.

“I spent 15 years at Tatnall—Preschool through 12th grade. When I graduated, I didn’t totally appreciate the effect the school had on me. As I got older though,

this campaign are

I realized that many of my core values and beliefs were a direct result of my time

used to finance the

and respect for the faculty and administrators all began when I first entered our

priorities established in the operating

spent at Tatnall. My love of learning, compassion for others and a sense of pride school. I believe it’s my duty to return the favor and make it possible for others.”

– Rebecca King Rogers ’79

budget. The fund

“The kind of education my children received at Tatnall went well beyond reading,

assists in maintaining

that doing the right thing is an admirable quality and helping develop children to

writing and arithmetic. Teaching strong values and a sense of community, teaching

quality faculty, small

become young adults with a strong sense of right and wrong is what motivates me

classroom sizes and the

strong family atmosphere and where saying, ‘I graduated from Tatnall’ comes with

facilities and equipment necessary for Tatnall’s

to give. Tatnall’s community is the kind of community I want to live in—one with a a sense of pride and knowledge that there is no better TRUE education available.”

– Patricia Kingery, former Tatnall parent

unique blend of

“Though small in number, almost every student I saw at Tatnall was able to

classroom learning, the

combination of the three, everyone was able to find faculty mentors and students

arts and athletics.

find a niche. Whether it was a track star, a thespian, a lover of poetry or some of like interests.

– Beth Hommes, former Tatnall teacher and parent “I give to Tatnall because I had one fabulous year at the school as a sophomore (1960-61). As a member of the Tatnall family, I was thrilled to have had the

28 | Tatnall Today

opportunity to attend the school

“For me, a quality education is one of

“As proud former Tatnall parents

that was started by my grandmother.

the most important gifts a parent or

and grandparents, we relocated to

My mother was the only one of the

grandparent can give a child. Helping

Delaware in 1979. The Tatnall School

nine Tatnall children to leave the East

to make sure that Tatnall continues

became our main resource for making

Coast due to my father’s rheumatoid

to have all the resources it needs to

friends and becoming involved in the

arthritis. We moved to New Mexico for

provide this inspires me to donate.”

community. During the last 30 years,

the chance at an enhanced quality of

– Melissa Veghte, Tatnall grandparent

we have tried to ‘pay it forward’ and remain involved in events and programs

life for him in the dryer and warmer climate. In 1960, I came to Tatnall

“As a student, Tatnall encompassed

at Tatnall. Our thanks to the Tatnall

and lived with Louise Beekley for one

most of my life, encouraging me to

family for making our transition such a

year as the other ‘exchange’ student.

stretch and grow, allowing me to

joyful adventure.”

Having a chance to be part of the

succeed and fail and try again. They

– Reda and Gene Beer, former

family tradition—if only for a year—

sent me off as a confident young

changed my young life. I returned to

woman. As a parent I saw my sons

Albuquerque to begin my junior year

grow and achieve in ways that I could

“I have and continue to benefit from

much more confident and self-assured

never have imagined, and they were

the experiences and connections I

after my year at Tatnall.”

both successful in their own right,

made at Tatnall. I’d like to think that

– Victoria T. Jacobson ’63

and they were sent off as confident

those benefits will continue into the

Tatnall parents

young men who are succeeding in life.

future for current and future students

“I give to Tatnall out of gratitude

I give my time, treasure and resources

alike. Time and/or resources are a

for the excellent opportunities—

to Tatnall to ensure others have the

worthwhile trade-off in pursuit of

educational, cultural and social—I

same advantages that we had, and so

that goal.”

encountered there, in the hope that

that we can all take advantage of the

– Christopher W. Daniels ’05

future scholarship students will

connections that being a part of the

benefit too.”

Tatnall family enables.”

“As a result of the overall Tatnall

– Heather J. O’Donnell ’89

– Mary Lu Currin Pamm ’78

experience, my kids were admitted to

“To be able to look back on your school

“I see the wonderful accomplishments

launched in their careers. One can

years and smile and even occasionally

Tatnall is making to the next generation

hardly ask for more from a school, and

laugh out loud about some little weird

and I only wish all kids could enjoy a

that experience needs to be made

moment 20 years ago is priceless. To

similar learning environment. My little

available to others.”

know you’re the person you are today

contribution is a way of saying THANK

– Thomas P. Preston, Board of

because of the friends you met, the

YOU to all of the faculty and staff of

Trustees past president and

experiences you had and the mentors

Tatnall!”

former Tatnall parent

and teachers who cared about you as

– Bruce Dobsch, Tatnall grandparent

fabulous colleges and are successfully

“The traditions and feeling of family/

an individual is humbling. To give a little (of anything) to be able to help another

“Tatnall holds a very special place in my

community have been cornerstones

person experience these kind of

heart. I was lucky enough to receive

of our children’s years at Tatnall. We

memories is rewarding, and ultimately,

financial aid, which is a debt I can never

always wanted to contribute to keeping

as parents and alumni, that’s what it’s

repay, since the value of my experience

those traditions alive and helping to

all about.”

there was priceless. That being said,

ensure that Tatnall was an inclusive

– Michael Papay ’94

nothing would make me happier than

community.”

to see Tatnall continue to offer that

– Robert and Carol Hangasci, former Tatnall parents

My years at Tatnall helped to create the

magical experience to new students

person I have become today. Giving is

year after year. I am living proof that

my way of giving back to Tatnall and

the alumni fund is a great investment,

“Tatnall is great school with all the right

saying thank you.”

so giving back is an easy decision

things—people, ethics, academics and

– Michelle Simon Lipowski ’87

for me!”

generosity. It is a pleasure to give back.”

– Scott Von Duyke ’06

– Eduardo C. Froes ’81

Spring | 29

CLASS

Notes

News from Tatnall Alumni Green-Rainbow Party, active member of my Unitarian-Universalist church, avid reader, gardener and living as green a life as possible with my husband and dog. I am so thankful to Tatnall for

’75 Dan Johnson writes, “I started a new business in January 2013, studioTD3, which provides architectural design,

helping me when I needed it.”

project management services and

’65

specialization in kitchens. My significant other and I are in the planning stages

Patti Allen Salmonson and her

for a much-anticipated trip to Spain

’60

husband, John, met while running

this fall to walk part of the Camino de

marathons in Hawaii. Fast forward

Santiago. My oldest daughter (Tatnall

Since retiring in 1994, Bonnie Patton

many years, and they are now

class of 2000) is working and living

Dean has been busy following the

celebrating the 14th anniversary of a

in NYC while my youngest, Molly,

passions she never had time to

race they founded, drawing runners

is completing her master’s degree

pursue. At the age of 72, Dean is an

from all over the world. The race was

in biomechanical sciences at the

active member at St. Mark’s Episcopal

started by Salmonson and her close

University of Delaware this spring.”

Cathedral in Minneapolis, Minnesota,

group of friends, who regularly ran 100-

where she is a lector and a cook for

mile trails, and is affectionately named

’77

Monday Night Supper and sings in the

after her running group—Hawaiian

choral society. She also plays recorder

Ultra Running Team.

Madikwe Game Reserve in South Africa

’67

photos of African wildlife.

Bonnie Patton Dean ’60, left

with a musical group of fellow church members, as well as with the Twin Cities Recorder Society. She is also

Robert Hessler

pursuing a lifetime dream by studying

earned his

music theory and beginning to arrange

Professional

and compose music.

Certified Coach (PCC)

’62

designation from the Federation. Based in Huntington Beach,

I have been traveling on my journey to

California, Hessler provides executive

find the life that responds to my core,

coaching at the Boeing Company.

I have found a few signposts along the

Requirements for earning the PCC

way. One was realizing the Earth was in

designation include the completion of

serious trouble, leading me to become

an entire Accredited Coach Training

an activist. The most important was

Program, which Hessler completed

figuring out the person I was meant to

through the University of Texas, along

be, which happened last year. Another

with the Coach Knowledge Assessment.

signpost told me to learn about the

With eight years of consulting

Buddha and his teaching, and the

experience, Hessler has logged more

fourth signpost was changing my path

than 900 hours coaching Boeing clients.

and full life—volunteer director of two family organizations, volunteer for the 30 | Tatnall Today

on assignment, capturing amazing

International Coach

Daphne Thurlow Stevens writes, “As

from vegetarian to vegan. I have a rich

Jim Graham recently traveled to the

’80 Gary Zenker co-authored a book with his young son titled Says Seth: Life Observations from a Six-Year-Old Perspective. The book features the very funny comments of a (then) six-yearold, followed by the snarky comments of Zenker himself. Their second publication, Dathfarts.com - More Says Seth, is expected to be out this summer.

Zenker has also published a number of other books, including The Ultimate

Chadwick, right, and father

Gary Zenker ’84, right, and son Seth welcome Director of Development Patrick Gugerty at their book stand.

DC Comics Action Figure and Collectibles

Wisconsin, where he competed in

Cassie, and an 11-year-old son, Blake,

Guide and five collectors’ volumes of

the USA Triathlon Olympic Distance

and three furry critters (Scarlett,

rock and roll artifacts and memorabilia

National Championship. Fargo won

Jake and Scooter). Stoltenberg says

tied to the Beach Boys and Jan and

his division in the event and became

he still enjoys a good round of golf

Dean. Zenker founded and runs the

a national triathlon champion in the

but has recently been trying his hand

Main Line Writers Group in King of

process! Additionally, in December,

at surfing—a sport he claims he has

Prussia, Pennsylvania, now celebrating

Fargo headed to Ardmore, Oklahoma,

started too late in life. He and his family

its fifth year, and the Wilmington

where his four-legged Weimaraner,

reside in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area,

Writers Group. He invites all fellow

Sarge, ran in the Weimaraner Club of

where they send their kids to Westlake

alumni writers and friends to attend.

America’s National Field Championship.

Academy, a school that reminds him of

’81

The team claimed second place in the

Tatnall!

Arthur E. Chadwick writes, “I am co-writing with my 83-year-old father another orchid book, entitled First Ladies and their Orchids – 1929 to Present. Additionally, our business, Chadwick & Son Orchids Inc., is celebrating 25 years in Richmond, Virginia.”

’83 Amy Teets Triggs recently returned to the workforce after being a stay-athome mom for the past 17 years. She is now working at Legal Graphicworks in West Palm Beach as the executive director and legal consultant.

’84 Lance Fargo celebrated a big year in 2013.

Fargo started off the year by marrying his fiancé, Paula, in Negril, Jamaica, where they also spent time touring the island and visiting the Montego Bay home where Fargo spent part of his childhood. In August, they traveled to Milwaukee,

National Amateur Championship.

Christopher H. Martin writes, “I’m Susan Budinger writes, “I’m thrilled

pleased to announce that after many

to report that my daughter, Margaret,

years of labor, I’ve published a book,

was accepted to Claremont McKenna

Restoration Project: A Benedictine

College, which is now ranked among

Path to Wisdom, Strength and Love.

the top-10 liberal arts colleges in the

It is a kind of spiritual self-help book

nation. I’m so proud of her I can’t see

rooted in the very best of the Christian

straight. She hopes to play soccer and

tradition. I am so grateful to the Tatnall

may also play golf (especially if she

community for nurturing in me the kind

doesn’t make the soccer team). She

of curiosity, confidence and persistence

only applied to Division III schools,

that helped me complete this project.

because she wants to play soccer. The

One of the people whose voice I could

irony is that with an average score

hear throughout the writing process

in the high 70s, she’s a killer golfer,

was Rosemary Crawford. I continue to

too! Obviously, she got her dad’s

serve as rector of St. Paul’s Episcopal

athleticism, but my determination.”

Church in San Rafael, California. Chloe

’86

and I hope to be back in Delaware with

Wayne

grade and Simon is in the 5th grade.

our two boys soon—Harper is in the 7th

Stoltenberg is currently senior

’88

vice president

James Ursomarso is now the chairman

and chief

Wayne Stoltenberg

and CEO of the Caesar Rodney

financial officer

Institute, a nonprofit think tank that

of Cinco Resources, Inc., a Dallas-based

provides solutions to Delaware public

oil and gas company that is actively

policy issues.

drilling in the Eagle Ford Shale of South Texas and the Powder River Basin of Wyoming. Married 17 years this August, he has a 13-year-old daughter, Spring | 31

CLASS

Notes

’03

try (less than 10 percent of all applicants

Katie O’Hara accomplished her

fact there are only 28 veterinary schools

longtime goal of opening her own

It’s a Boy!

commercial interior design firm,

Vicky Pettinaro

help of fellow Tatnall alumna Jackie

Martelli ’95 and husband Matt welcomed their second son, Leo Phillip Martelli, on

Katie O’Hara Design, last fall with the Ivy ’88. Earlier this month, the new Horn Entrepreneurship Center at the University of Delaware was revealed, a project designed by Katie’s firm!

August 17, 2013. He

’06

joins big brother Luca. Additionally,

Andrew Van

Matt joined the Pettinaro Company as

Horn Ruoss

director of Operations for Pettinaro

is entering his

Residential, LLC.

fourth year as a Ph.D. candidate

It’s a Girl!

at Duke University.

Melissa Gray

His research

Applegate ’96

focuses on the

writes, “My

strategy and management of European

husband, Will ’95,

multinational corporations operating

and I are the proud

in South and Southeast Asia, and the

parents of Sahler

history of supranational corporate

Gray Applegate, who

regulatory regimes. Recently, his work

was born on May 8, 2013.”

won dissertation research grants from the Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program,

On September 3,

Social Science Research Council in

2013, Michelle

New York and the Andrew W. Mellon

Simon Lipowski

Foundation, which will fund a year of

’87 and husband

field work in Indonesia, India, South

John welcomed

Africa, London and The Hague. This

Haley Jordan

summer, he will present papers on his

Lipowski. They are

research to the Congress of European

currently residing in Livingston,

Business History Association at The

New Jersey.

Utrecht School of Economics in The

’93

Netherlands.

’08

get in during the first round due to the in the continental United States). She is currently entering her second year at the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Georgia.

As a graduate student studying mechanical engineering at Yale University, Julia Salevan was recently awarded the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship. The NSF Fellowship supports outstanding graduate students in science, engineering and mathematics disciplines pursuing masters and doctoral degrees. With former fellows including several Nobel laureates, Salevan writes, “I’m a bit overwhelmed by the award!”

Mallory Alexander and Christy White, writing on behalf of Kerry Felton, write, “We would like to announce the engagement of Kerry Felton. We were all lucky enough to meet up in March to celebrate this wonderful milestone for our dear friend.”

Remembering Alumni and Former Faculty Mary Marvel Adams ’55 Mary Marvel Adams ’55, “Mimi,” passed away on March 22, 2014.

Tom Gallagher ’73 Tom Gallagher ’73, son of former

Tim Huang’s short musical, A Relative

Mallory Alexander graduated

Tatnall English teacher Ann

Relationship, won the Best Musical and

cum laude a semester early from

Gallagher, passed away on March

Best Actor (Hansel Tan) awards at the

Clemson University in 2011 with a

3 after a decade of struggling with

Theater Now 2013 Sound Bites Festival

degree in animal veterinary science/

health conditions.

in December. On the show being

preveterinary. At Clemson, she was

directed by Laura Brandel, Huang’s

vice president of the Pre-Vet Club. In

Kathleen Dearworth ’82

girlfriend, he writes, “Not only did we

the Poultry Club, she won an award for

Kathleen Dearworth, a member of

not kill each other after working so

managing the turkey farm. Additionally,

the Tatnall class of ’82, passed away

closely together on this project, we are

Alexander was accepted into four

suddenly on Friday, Nov. 15, 2013.

still very much in love. Hooray for yoga!”

veterinary medical schools on her first

32 | Tatnall Today

25th Annual Tatnall Golf Classic

at Hartefeld National

Thursday, May 29, 2014 It’s that time of year again. Join us as we celebrate the silver anniversary of our golf outing in support of Tatnall’s financial aid program. Only a few short weeks away, sponsorship opportunities and open slots for individual players ($250, includes green fee, cart, driving range, luncheon, refreshments and buffet dinner) are still available for the

Event Schedule ■■

Registration

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

■■

Lunch

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

■■

Shotgun Start

1 p.m.

■■

Cocktails & Dinner 5:45 to 8 p.m.

four-man scramble format outing. Enjoy a fun day out on the links!

For more information or to reserve your spot, call Director of Alumni Relations Anita Marcial at (302) 892-4337.

Spring | 33

1501 Barley Mill Road Wilmington, Delaware 19807 (302) 998-2292 | communications@tatnall.org

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www. tatnall.org

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Tatnall Today was printed on recycled/ recyclable paper.

It Starts Here

Our legacy includes thousands of students who have made (and are continuing to make) countless contributions to our world. From MacArthur Genius Grant recipient Dr. Terry Plank ’81 to world-famous designer Jonathan Adler ’84 and legendary University of Maryland field hockey coach Missy Meharg ’81, the educational foundations that propelled their successes started here.

Jonathan Adler, Class of ’84

Dr. Terry Plank, Class of ’81

Missy Meharg, Class of ’81

Potter, Designer and Author

Scientist and Professor, Department of Earth and Environment Sciences at Columbia University

Dynamic Athlete, Coach and Commentator