ECHOES
CELEBRATING THE CLASS
EDITOR Lisa A. Algeo
DESIGN Veronica A. Utz
PHOTO CREDITS Abby Anthony, Jay Gorodetzer, Ivory Tree Portraits, Melissa Kelly, Theresa Regan, William Stickney and Shira Yudkoff
All photographs are identified left to right unless otherwise noted.
We welcome letters regarding the contents of the magazine and/or issues pertaining to the school. Letters must be signed. The editor retains the right to edit at her discretion.
Please send correspondence to:
Lisa A. Algeo, Editor, Echoes | The Baldwin School 701 Montgomery Ave. | Bryn Mawr, PA 19010 lalgeo@baldwinschool.org
For general alumnae requests or information, please contact the Office of Advancement and Alumnae Engagement: Laura Armstrong, Chief Development Officer laura.armstrong@baldwinschool.org or (610) 525-2700, x286
FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL
As I reflect on my first year as Head of School, I am full of gratitude for the opportunity to lead our remarkable institution through the 2023-24 school year. This past June, we successfully graduated 65 women who will matriculate to colleges and universities worldwide. While there are many accomplishments for the phenomenal Class of 2024 to be proud of, one that we are most proud of is the confidence and excitement our graduates feel knowing they will attend their top choice for college and university, where they will undoubtedly find new ways to shine bright and make the world a better place. This extraordinary group of young women are leaving the gates of Baldwin ready to take all they have learned here and become changemakers in the world.
As I shared with the Class of 2024 in my commencement remarks, “From the very first day you stepped onto our campus and into The Residence, our community members knew you were part of something extraordinary. As you know, our School is more than just a place of learning; it is an institution where young women are empowered to discover their voices, pursue their passions and push the boundaries of their potential. You have experienced a unique blend of academic excellence, community support and deep connections that have challenged you to think critically, engage deeply and strive for the highest standards in all that you do. Your extensive and myriad accomplishments on the stage, the field and in the classroom are a continued testament to your brilliance and perseverance. As importantly, you have demonstrated that Baldwin is more than just a place for academic, athletic and artistic pursuits. It is your home. The connections you have made here - some going back as many as 14 years - go beyond friendships. In every classroom, at every club meeting and on every team, you have made sure everyone belongs. You have built relationships as strong as any sisterhood and have only been strengthened through shared challenges and triumphs. The bonds between you are palpable. You know the importance of lifting each other, celebrating each other's successes and being there for each other in times of need. The women surrounding you today and the generations who have graduated before you are foundational to who you are and will carry you forward into the future.”
I hope you, too, enjoy reading about and celebrating the success of the Class of 2024 and all of our Baldwin Bears in this issue. We couldn’t be more proud.
Lynne Macziewski Head of School
Instagram - @mrs.mac.baldwin
19 Baldwin Seniors Recognized
by National Merit
Nineteen seniors were recognized by the National Merit® Scholarship Program, with 11 commended students, seven semifinalists and a National African American Recognition Award winner. Congratulations to Eliana Jean ’24 who was named a National Merit Scholarship winner.
MARCHING-IN RING DAY
and
a
Grade 9 Reveals Banner
An all-school community event, from Pre-K to Grade 12, celebrated the Class of 2027, the Class of Blue, as they presented their official Class Banner.
Grandparents Day
More than 250 grandparents and special friends of our Lower School students spent a spring morning listening to songs and learning alongside Baldwin’s Pre-K – Grade 5 girls.
Regional Event
Alumnae gathered in North Carolina with Head of School Lynne Macziewski and Chief Development Officer Laura Armstrong. Thank you, Pontea Fazeli Dixon ’98, for hosting!
Class of 2024 Revisits LS DREAM Lab Project
In 2017, 5th grade students from the Class of 2024 spent months collecting bottle caps. At the start, they weren’t sure what they would make with them, but as the months went on and the colors rolled in, the idea started to take shape. In their final months of Lower School as 5th graders, the students collaborated to plan, paint, sort, glue and screw hundreds and hundreds of bottles caps to form what has become an iconic piece in the Lower School, the DREAM Lab Rainbow! Before graduation, members of the Class of 2024 returned to the DREAM Lab to visit with Lower School DREAM Lab Coordinator Stephanie Greer and pose for photos.
B-Flats Perform at Concerts for a Cause
This spring, the Baldwin B-Flats performed for the "Concerts for a Cause" series at Wallingford Presbyterian Church. In attendance was Judy Lang, who directed the B-Flats for almost 20 years. The group had a wonderful meet-and-greet after the concert and celebrated the long, rich legacy of the B-Flats.
Empower, Engage, Elevate! INTRODUCING
Baldwin’s Alumnae Leadership Council
The Baldwin School alumnae community honors a deep tradition of lifelong learning, lasting friendships and global citizenship that connects over 4,000 Baldwin women across the country and throughout the world. While the core of that sisterhood will always remain the same, our alumnae community has witnessed a tremendous shift in the way engagement has evolved over the past few years. When the pandemic made it impossible to host in-person events, a variety of creative virtual alumnae events, both big and small, were created to fill the gap. Communications channels are ever more diverse, and we have more digital tools at our fingertips than ever before. This post-pandemic moment presented the leaders of the National Board of Advisors and the Alumnae Association Executive Board a unique opportunity to re-evaluate programming needs and reorganize the school’s volunteer structure to meet those needs. After soliciting input through a full membership survey, looking at national trends in alumnae engagement and connecting with staff at peer all-girls schools, the two groups successfully merged into one Alumnae Leadership Council (ALC) in 2023.
the ALC is excited about the opportunities ahead!
p Alumnae Engagement – building a strong alumnae community that connects alumnae to each other regionally, professionally and socially through a variety of in-person and virtual events, affinity groups based on personal and professional interests and lifelong learning.
p Student Programming – connecting alumnae to the School to further enrich the student experience by highlighting the accomplishments and expertise of our graduates across different fields and industries.
The new ALC represents the collective voice of the alumnae community. It is charged with strengthening the global network of Baldwin graduates by building a connected community that supports one another, promotes the mission of the School and celebrates the spirit of Baldwin. There are currently 18 members of the ALC who have committed to this purpose and the School’s mission alongside the Alumnae Office through three key priorities:
p Young Alumnae Experience – driving initiatives that focus on the specific needs of alumnae who have graduated within the last 10 years, from career networking and mentoring programs to relocation advice and financial planning.
From homecoming festivities and class reunions to community service and professional development workshops,
Over the past year, the council has played a pivotal role in bringing together Baldwin alumnae to welcome our 9th Head of School Lynne Macziewski. The ALC's regional events, held in cities such as Boston, New York City, Washington DC, Austin and Houston, TX, and Charlotte, NC, have been instrumental in creating opportunities for networking, rekindling old friendships and maintaining ties with the Baldwin community. The council serves as a focus group when the School seeks the alumnae perspective. They have contributed to the refreshed design of Echoes magazine, assisted with the return of our athletic Hall of Fame event this fall and selected the recipients of the three alumnae awards presented during Reunion Weekend. ALC co-chairs also hold two seats on the Baldwin Board of Trustees, further amplifying the group’s influence.
Reflecting on the future success of the council, current Co-Chair Shayna Fader ’11 expressed, "I hope that the ALC can become a more visible and relied on resource for alums. My goal is that as every alum reaches new life milestones — moving to a new city, finding a job, having children, grieving a loss, etc. — they can rely on the ALC to help them with resources and peers in the alum community to help them navigate this phase. Building these connections between alums will also help to reinforce the connections between each alum and Baldwin, which ultimately benefits our entire community and creates a virtuous cycle of Baldwin girls supporting Baldwin girls."
"T
If you are an engaged alumna, passionate about supporting the Baldwin community and furthering the purpose of the ALC, we encourage you to get involved. Whether attending events, sharing your expertise or making the commitment to join the ALC itself, your contributions are essential to making our alumnae community thrive. There are countless ways to volunteer and make a difference, from speaking to a class, mentoring fellow alumnae or current students, offering externships to seniors, hosting events in your city and helping with class reunions and other alumnae gatherings.
Baldwin’s new director of alumnae engagement, Courtney Jasmin, is excited to assist the ALC and the wider alumnae community. She noted, “Baldwin alums share such a unique experience and cherished
here is something very special about the Baldwin experience, and having other people who understand the uniqueness of the experience is a blessing. Baldwin is a loving community full of people who are the leaders and shakers of the world. The alum community is critically important because community will always be the way that we as individuals are able to thrive. We are stronger as a collective. All of the things that current students (and alum) want to learn about or want to accomplish can likely be supported by someone in the alum community."
– Alicia Roebuck ‘05, Former ALC Co-Chair
Alumnae Living in the United States
traditions from their time here. With the establishment of the ALC and the arrival of a new head of school, I’m thrilled to contribute to this renewed energy to get Baldwin alums more involved with the school community and each other.”
Ready to be a part of strengthening Baldwin’s mission? Scan below to find out more and sign up to be a volunteer. There, you'll find detailed information on how to contribute, whether you're looking to join the ALC or volunteer in other capacities. We're excited to see how you'll engage with our vibrant Baldwin alumnae community!
Totals
• North America: 3,849
• Europe: 47
• Asia: 8
• Australia 4
• Africa: 2
Note - Figures do not include 350 alumnae for whom current location is unknown.
Data is as of June 2024.
BALDWIN’S AUCTION AND DINNER Cultivating Community at
As the echoes of laughter and the warmth of camaraderie from the annual Baldwin School Community Auction and Dinner are remembered, it's essential to reflect not just on the festivities of the evening but on the profound impact of this community’s collective generosity. This cherished annual event – this year with the theme of “The Greatest Show: Baldwin Under the Big Top” – was held on March 16 and exemplified the unwavering dedication toward advancing education and empowering young women.
At Baldwin, philanthropy isn't merely about fundraising; it's about investing in the future of our students and nurturing an environment where they can thrive. The success of the annual auction and dinner transcends financial figures; it embodies the spirit of unity and shared purpose that defines us.
This year's event was nothing short of extraordinary, thanks to the remarkable support of our community members. With over 180 attendees and an additional 50 participating in the auction remotely, the evening was a testament to the commitment that connects us all. Behind the scenes, 40 dedicated parents, faculty and staff volunteers worked tirelessly to
ensure the event's success, underscoring the collaborative effort that underpins our philanthropic endeavors.
The auction was a spectacle of generosity and goodwill, with 150 auction items finding new homes. From coveted experiences to unique treasures, each item symbolized a commitment to providing our students with unparalleled opportunities for growth and enrichment. However, the paddle raise segment of the evening truly showcased the depth of our community's dedication. Through this year's paddle raise, an astonishing $87,000 was contributed, reaffirming our collective commitment to Baldwin’s mission.
EMPOWERING FUTURES Transforming Spaces,
At Baldwin, our commitment to providing exceptional educational experiences extends beyond the classroom walls. Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of our community, this year’s Raise the Paddle is set to redefine an underutilized outdoor space on campus into something that enriches the lives of our students in profound ways.
The Raise the Paddle initiative marks the beginning of an exciting journey towards creating a vibrant outdoor social-recreational space that reflects the dynamic spirit of our school community. With student involvement at its core, this project embodies our dedication to fostering student leadership and empowerment.
Central to the vision of the new outdoor area is the concept of student engagement from start to finish. From the initial planning stages to the final implementation, students have been actively involved in shaping the design and
functionality of the space. This collaborative approach ensures that the new area not only meets the needs of our students but also reflects their unique perspectives and aspirations.
One of the highlights of the new space is the Class of 2024 four square, a unique feature designed to celebrate the graduating class and provide a dedicated area for relaxation and socialization. Additionally, an ample gathering space around a fire circle will serve as a focal point for community gatherings, fostering student connections and camaraderie.
Beyond its recreational aspects, the area's landscaping will hold special significance. Students from the Environmental and Botanical Clubs will play an integral role in selecting native plants and flowers for a new pollinator and butterfly garden. This hands-on involvement promotes environmental stewardship and instills a sense of pride and ownership in the space.
With more than 2,000 square feet of outdoor space slated for completion this fall, the new area promises to be a dynamic retreat where our girls can socialize, relax, grow and learn. It represents a tangible expression of our commitment to providing holistic educational experiences that nurture the mind, body and spirit of our students.
As we embark on this transformative project, you can follow our progress on Baldwin's social media platforms. Your ongoing support and dedication make initiatives like Raise the Paddle possible, allowing us to meaningfully support our students, faculty and staff in all they aspire to achieve.
Together, we are shaping a brighter tomorrow for our students and laying the foundation for a world where every young woman has the opportunity to thrive.
AROUND CAMPUS
Upper School Creates a Maker Space
Upper School students unleashed their creativity in a maker space, where ideas were brought to life. In addition to designing and constructing a table top from repurposed lumber, students dove into branding by creating a logo and eye-catching signage for the new creative space.
Grade 7 – 8 Chemistry Classes Solve A Crime
Middle school 7th and 8th grade chemistry students were visited online by Kelly Knight, an associate professor of forensic science at George Mason University and co-founder and director of Females of Colors and those Underrepresented in STEM summer programs for middle and high school girls. She spoke with the students about her career as a DNA technician and forensic DNA analyst with the Maryland State Police Forensic Sciences Division. After this assembly and during their chemistry class, students then analyzed evidence to solve a crime of the “missing skeleton,” testing various substances and liquids found at the crime scene and analyzing fingerprints to determine the culprit.
Kindergarten Investigates Woodland Animals
Kindergarten immersed themselves in an interdisciplinary unit on woodland animals that combined a science study of indigenous animals, a nonfiction reading unit, a social studies inquiry journey on teamwork and Kindergarten-friendly research and notetaking skills. They learned how to use nonfiction text to gather information and fill out graphic organizers as a class. The girls then chose animals to research in partners or teams and worked together to gather interesting information. They used a variety of ways to "show what they know," such as writing information sheets, crafting dioramas, using their notes to create fun fact videos or creating 2D and 3D replicas of the animals, their habitats and their prey.
Grade 3 Becomes Experts in National Parks
After being officially sworn in as Junior Park Rangers, third graders looked to answer the question: “How can we educate people about our National Parks?” Students selected a National Park to study and an issue facing that park. Having researched and read a variety of pourquoi stories during Library and ELA classes, the students then learned about different landforms in science class and made connections to their National Parks. For their culminating presentations, students created a pourquoi story (a myth or creation story that educated visitors about a phenomenon in the park), a physical artifact to go in the park’s Visitor Center and a written research piece that explains the park issue represented by the artifact.
AROUND CAMPUS
Grade 1 Studies Biomimicry
Latin Meets Art
In a collaboration between Latin and Art, Upper School Advanced Topic Latin students learned about illuminated manuscripts and created their own by transcribing their favorite Catullus poem using quill pens! They then created an illustration for it.
First graders worked on a joint science and DREAM Lab unit exploring biomimicry. Students worked in pairs to build a moving mechanism with LEGO robotics kits. They observed its movement and answered the question, "What in nature does this movement remind me of?" which inspired them to modify their plain model into an imaginative nature-inspired model by adding Lego bricks. Girls coded the models to exhibit behaviors that worked well for their creation.
Upper School Students Study the Atomic Age
During their Wyss Interdisciplinary Institute course titled “The Atomic Age,” Grade 9 – 11 students explored the science and history behind the destructive power of nuclear weapons, the transformative potential of nuclear energy and other modern uses of radioactivity. Students participated in an "Eyeball to Eyeball" hybrid simulation of the Cuban Missile Crisis developed by professors at Central Michigan University. Role playing American, Soviet and Cuban officials, the students navigated one of history's most tense moments and learned firsthand the importance of diplomacy. Thankfully, the students averted a nuclear war!
Middle School Explores Bridges, Buildings and Latin
During their Wyss Interdisciplinary Institute week, students in Grades 6 – 8 learned about ancient architecture and recreated design concepts developed thousands of years ago. They visited Bryn Mawr College’s special collections department to see their ancient art and artifacts, and they toured Philadelphia to see buildings that draw inspiration from those ancient sources. Students then created their own structures, either physically or virtually, using the skills they learned throughout the experience.
Seussical JR. Seussical JR.
MIDDLE SCHOOL Presents Seussical JR.
Horton the Elephant, the Cat in the Hat and many other favorite Dr. Seuss characters sprang to life onstage in Baldwin’s Middle School presentation of Seussical JR. this spring. Thirty-five Middle School students transported audiences from the Jungle of Nool to the Circus McGurkus, while the Cat in the Hat narrated the story of Horton the Elephant.
Directed by Theater Teacher Ben Dibble, preparation for the play involved more than 80 students who collaborated with the Middle School DREAM Lab and Theater classes to build and paint the set. Computer Science and Engineering Department Chair Addison Lilholt and faculty member Paul Hermans spent countless hours helping with the set design and build.
Students showed off their musical talents in three division-specific concerts this spring.
Baldwin/Haverford Brother Sister Art Show
Baldwin and The Haverford School partnered for a Brother Sister Art Show this spring, displayed at Haverford’s Willson Hall. Under the direction of Visual Art Department Chair Kenny Delio, Baldwin's artists displayed a variety of work including drawings, paintings, jewelry and sculpture.
Lower and Middle School Art Show
A combined Lower and Middle School art show was on display in the Fackenthal-Pethick Art Gallery this spring. Lower School Art Teacher Andre Teixeira and Middle School Art Teachers Jessica Konopka and Kate Leibrand worked with students on a variety of creative and interdisciplinary projects throughout the semester. Families were invited to see the amazing works of art during a reception. Scan the QR code below for a gallery of the artwork.
Allie Weiser ’24 Receives White Blazer, Inter-Ac AD’s Award
Allie Weiser ’24 was awarded The White Blazer, as well as the Girls’ Inter-Ac League Athletic Directors’ Award. Read more about her Baldwin athletic accomplishments on our website here.
Milan Moriniere ’27 Has Record-Setting Track & Field Season
As a freshman, Milan Moriniere set four school records during this year’s outdoor track and field season in high jump (4'11"), discus (111'-4"), javelin (124'-0) and shot put (29'-5.25"). She won 1st place in javelin at both the Inter-Ac League and PAISAA State Championships, and she placed 2nd in javelin and 9th in discus at the 2024 New Balance Nationals Outdoor Track & Field Championships in the freshman division.
Winter and Spring Athletes Win All-Inter-Ac League Honors
Congratulations to our winter and spring student athletes who were recognized with All-Inter-Ac League honors, voted on by the coaches for their outstanding performance:
SQUASH
Sabine Ball ’24 (1st Team)
Saranya Singh ’24 (2nd Team)
Olivia Stephan ’24 (2nd Team)
SWIMMING
Gemma Undercofler '24 (1st Team)
Three Student-Athletes
Commit to College
SOFTBALL
Allie Weiser ’24 (1st Team)
Joelle Pearlstein ’24 (1st Team)
Charly Landow ’25 (2nd Team)
TRACK AND FIELD
Milan Moriniere ’27 (1st Team)
Skater Aubyn Mackey '24 Wins Gold, Silver and Bronze
Aubyn Mackey '24 and her skating team, The Skyliners Team USA, brought home a gold medal from The Lumiere Cup in The Netherlands, a silver medal at the 2024 U.S. Synchronized Skating Championships in Las Vegas and a bronze medal at the World Junior Synchronized Skating Championships in Neuchâtel, Switzerland. Aubyn was also awarded the platinum level Graduating Seniors Award from U.S. Figure Skating, which recognizes the hard work of student athletes who have participated in figure skating throughout high school.
Three students from Baldwin’s Class of 2024 committed to play a sport at the college level: Sabine Ball (Cornell University: Squash), Bella Hu (Brown University: Tennis) and Gemma Undercofler (Duke University: Swimming).
PRESERVING LEGACY: The Baldwin Oral History Project
IN THE CORRIDORS OF THE BALDWIN SCHOOL, history isn't just a subject — it's a living, breathing testament to the experiences, memories and voices of generations past – the Baldwin girls who have passed through the gates since 1888. History Department Chair Dr. Matthew Bunn (P ’37) and Coordinator of Academic Innovation and History Teacher Dr. Athan Biss (P ’34, ’37) are spearheading an ambitious endeavor to preserve and celebrate the stories of Baldwin alumnae through the launch of an Oral History Digital Archive. With help from the Blair D. Stambaugh Award for Student and Faculty Enrichment, Drs. Bunn and Biss have been working over the past few years to capture the rich tapestry of Baldwin’s history.
At the heart of this initiative lies a profound recognition of the value and fragility of oral history — a treasure trove of personal narratives that offer a glimpse into the soul of the Baldwin community across decades. With a vision to bridge past and present, Drs. Bunn and Biss have trained a select group of history students to conduct and record interviews with Baldwin alumnae, capturing their unique perspectives and experiences.
Eri Maeda ’23, Wynne Conger ’23 and Julie Brose ’23 enthusiastically stepped forward during the 2023 Reunion and served as interviewers, paving the way for future students to engage with this invaluable resource. They interviewed Shere Abbott ’73, Jenna Barlow ’83, Leslie Carrere ’73, Corinne Coughanowr ’73, Amelia Drake ’73, Meg Gaines ’73, Carolyn Jones Berry ’73, Vega Lalire ’68, Marie Lefton ’73, Amy Breslow Montgomery ’73, Judy Rice ’58, Gwinnie Scott ’58, Jeannette Stein ’73, Kyra D Stephanoff ’73 and Sara (Sally) Willson ’58. But the project's scope extends beyond mere documentation — it seeks to foster connections across generations and cultivate a
At the heart of this initiative lies a profound recognition of the value and fragility of oral history — a treasure trove of personal narratives that offer a glimpse into the soul of the Baldwin community across decades.
sense of continuity and belonging within the Baldwin community.
The roots of this initiative, however, trace back to earlier efforts, where the seeds of the oral history project were scheduled to kick off during reunion weekend in May 2020. Despite the disruptions wrought by the pandemic, the potential of oral history as a tool for education and empowerment became increasingly apparent. Zoom, with its newfound ubiquity, emerged as a powerful medium. In consultation with Black Student Union Advisor Tracy Stevens (P ’11, ’18), Natecia Greenidge ’21 and Asia Blocker ’21 identified and interviewed several Black alumnae (Jennifer Casey ’71, Carolyn Jones Berry ’73, Shawn Lacy ’71 and Logan Jones-Merrill ’14) for their capstone Grade 11 U.S. History project. These interviews were able to shed light on narratives that had long been overlooked.
Now, armed with a modest budget from the grant they received and a carefully outlined timeframe and scope, Drs. Bunn and Biss are poised to realize their vision over the next few years. Website hosting, stipends for student
interns, training sessions and the meticulous editing and transcription of interviews all form integral components of the project's infrastructure. The immediate goal is to capture 5 - 10 short interviews during each reunion weekend, while also conducting longer interviews with exceptional alumnae, in collaboration with the Alumnae Relations Department. The interviews will eventually be hosted on an accessible website.
During the most recent 2024 Reunion weekend, students Marin Horwitz ’24, Lighthouse Wu ’24, Amelia Dennis ’25, Emi Maeda ’25, Avani Shah-Lipman ’25, Emily Sidlow ’25 and Greyson Walko ’25 interviewed Anne Brodell ’74, Beverly Dale ’74, Paula Boyer Kennedy ’74, Karen Kenny ’74, Padma Gali Rao ’84, Carolyn Simpson Scott ’74, Leslie Smith ’74, Lenora Thomas ’19 and Wendi Wheeler ’74.
Looking ahead, the project holds boundless potential for growth and expansion. From documenting the experiences of minority students (Black, Asian, Hispanic, Jewish) to exploring the impact of historical events on campus dynamics (the Vietnam War, the Equal Rights Amendment), the oral history archive is primed to become a dynamic repository of Baldwin's collective memory. Moreover, by integrating these narratives into the classroom curriculum, Drs. Bunn and Biss aim to foster a deeper understanding of history — one that is rooted in empathy, perspective and connection.
As the Baldwin Oral History Project takes flight, it symbolizes more than just a preservation of the past — it embodies a commitment to honoring, celebrating and learning from the voices that have shaped the fabric of the Baldwin community. With each interview conducted, a new chapter of history is written — one that serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Baldwin Bears, past, present and future.
CONNECTING CULTURES THROUGH MATH AND ART A Journey with Raphaelina Loke
AS WE NAVIGATE THE VAST CORRIDORS OF CULTURE AND KNOWLEDGE, there are individuals who seamlessly weave the threads of tradition, innovation and education. Raphaelina Loke (P ’06, ’08, ’10), an esteemed Grade 12 Dean and Math Teacher at Baldwin, stands as a beacon of this fusion, embodying a profound commitment to both her students and the exploration of diverse perspectives.
Raphaelina’s journey is a tapestry of multicultural experiences, knit together with the vibrant fibers of her upbringing in Malaysia and her educational pursuits across continents. Raised in a community rich with diversity, where the melodies of Muslim, Buddhist, Christian and Hindu faiths harmonized, she cultivated lifelong friendships that transcended borders and spanned decades. It’s these deeprooted connections that have not only shaped her personal narrative but also influenced her pedagogical approach.
Using funds from the 2022 Reed Fellowship, Raphaelina will embark on a transformative exploration, drawing inspiration from the geometric splendors of Islamic art housed within the Metropolitan Museum of Art. With eyes set on the intricate tessellations and proportions intrinsic to this art form, she seeks to infuse her Geometry class with a cultural tapestry that extends beyond Western boundaries. Her vision extends further as she
plans to integrate non-Western mathematical concepts into her curriculum that tie into the students’ study of proportion, triangles and circles. A recent art project influenced by Piet Mondrian enriched her students’ understanding and appreciation of diverse mathematical traditions as they studied quadrilaterals.
But Raphaelina’s quest for cross-cultural exchange doesn’t end there. In her pursuit of knowledge, she is hoping to traverse the landscape of mathematics museums, from the National Museum of Mathematics in New York City to the Peabody Essex Museum in Salem, MA, delving into the rich reservoirs of Asian art and mathematical innovation. It’s a journey
As she steps into the next school year, Raphaelina’s mission remains clear: to cultivate a learning environment that transcends borders, where mathematical exploration becomes a conduit for cultural understanding and appreciation.
fueled not only by academic curiosity but also by a profound desire to bridge divides and foster understanding.
Raphaelina was also recently awarded the Agnes and Sophie Dallas Irwin Fund award, which she will use for an enriching trip to Croatia with her two dearest friends from Malaysia. These friendships, formed decades ago, have stood the test of time. Even as they pursued graduate studies and careers, raised families and suffered losses, they have maintained, nurtured and strengthened their friendship. It has been 40 years since all three have been together, and they will mark a milestone birthday by taking a trip together to celebrate their lifelong friendship while looking ahead to the best years to come.
As she steps into the next school year, Raphaelina’s mission remains clear: to cultivate a learning environment that transcends borders, where mathematical exploration becomes a conduit for cultural understanding and appreciation. Her journey is a testament to the transformative power of education and the enduring bonds that connect us across continents and generations.
As we celebrate Raphaelina’s achievements, we are reminded of the profound impact educators can have when they embrace diversity, empathy and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. She is a guiding light for Baldwin’s students, illuminating the path toward a more inclusive and interconnected world.
THE CLASS OF 2024
Eliana Bree Aaron
Andrea Charis Alevras
Marin Alter
Anna Isabella Altman
Paige Elizabeth Bailey
Sabine Margaretha Ball
Sydney Jessica Joan Brabson
Gwen Bradwell
Samantha Erin Bramen
Sioné Jai Brown-Alexander
Eliza Brooke Bryant
Alexandra Grace Cappola
Riley Lopez-Carickhoff
Megan Chi Yu Chan
Maren Kres Cohen
Jade Davenport
Nicoly De Vasconcelos
Darya Clara Dumon
Brenna Jade Ferreira
Cassandra Sao-Qing Foo
Isabella Marli Gillis
Quinn Alana Green
Josephine Elizabeth Grunes
Lauren Nguyen Halak
Carly Paige Hans
Onie Zindzi Hinnant
Harper Britton Hoffman
Marin Elisheva Sibley Horwitz
Claire Hou
Isabella Hu
Cynthia Zhaoyun Huang
Eliana Elizabeth Jean
Rena Schwab Kaplan
Zoe Caroline Levine
Linda Yutong Lin
Aubyn Jane Mackey
Kate Magarelli
Laura Maria Mantini
Charlotte Grace Miller
Frances Rives Northington
Amara Anjali Okechukwu
Nina Kasie Okechukwu
Vivian Clare Palmer
Caroline Elizabeth Parillo
Joelle Charlize Pearlstein
Allegra Camille Quimby
Apsara Tarai Reese
Maurisha Rose
Kylie James Rubin
Eesha Sharma
Saranya Singh
Katherine Evalyn Smith
Abigail Snyder
Olivia Grace Stephan
Chelsea Brooke Tarringer
Isabela Tobon
Gemma Undercofler
Chloe Marie-Elizabeth Watson
Alexandra Hill Weiser
Blair Williams
Ava Marie Wood
Lighthouse Yuxuan Wu
Emilie Wanying Xie
Trisha Taeyoung Yun
Cynthia Zhang
Class of 2024 Matriculation List
Amherst College
Arcadia University
Arizona State University (2)
Barnard College
Berklee College of Music
Boston College
Boston University (2)
Brown University
Bucknell University (2)
Carnegie Mellon University
Case Western Reserve University (2)
Clark Atlanta University
Colgate University
Cornell University (3)
Dickinson College
Duke University
Fordham University
George Washington University
Georgetown University (2)
Georgia Institute of Technology
Kenyon College
Lehigh University (2)
New York University
Occidental College
Penn State University (2)
Princeton University
Purdue University
Skidmore College
Suffolk University
Syracuse University
The University of Tennessee
Towson University
Tufts University (2)
University of California - Santa Cruz
University of Delaware
University of Florida
University of Kentucky
University of New England
University of Notre Dame
University of Pennsylvania (6)
University of Rochester
University of Southern California
University of St Andrews
University of Virginia (2)
Vanderbilt University
Wake Forest University
Washington University in St. Louis
Wellesley College
Members of the 13-Year Club: Charlotte Miller, Daria Dumon, Onie Hinnant, Eliana Jean, Eliza Bryant, Sione Brown-Alexander, Saranya Singh
Members of the 14-Year Club: Kylie Rubin, Allie Weiser, Isa Tobon, Sabine Ball, Lauren Halak, Joelle Pearlstein, Eesha Sharma
Senior legacy students: Row 1 (front): Anna Altman (Lily Altman ’21), Sione Brown-Alexander (Sarai Brown-Alexander ’17), Saranya Singh (Saachi Singh ’20), Josie Grunes (Brenda McBride ’84), Ali Cappola (Christina Cappola ’21, Katherine Cappola ’19), Carly Hans (Melissa Hans ’21), Rena Kaplan (Batya Kaplan ’23); Row 2: Samantha Bramen (Sydney Bramen ’22), Sabine Ball (Michelle Karbiner-Ball ’86), Lauren Halak (Grace Halak ’22), Rives Northington (Rebecca Northington ’93, Elizabeth MacLean ’83), Trisha Yun (SuIn Yun ’20), Allie Weiser (Kaya Weiser ’22), Joelle Pearlstein (Tessa Pearlstein ’21, Lily Simon ’07)
“ …
With the lessons our teachers, coaches, peers and the Baldwin community have taught us, our memories of this graduating class will fuel us as we enter new spaces. … I am finally beginning to fully appreciate how unique the relationships each of us have with one another are. I think I can speak for most of us when I say that as a Baldwin student, I always knew there was someone, be it a peer or a faculty member, that I could turn to in a moment of need or that I could count on to support me. … The level to which Baldwin brings students together is, in my opinion, unlike any other place I have experienced. … Our graduation year may soon become part of the past, but I assure you our love for each other and for our experiences together is timeless. … I have little doubt that having Baldwin memories and the Class of 2024 as a foundation will allow us to continue making meaningful bonds as we exit Baldwin's gates, diplomas in hand.”
COMMENCEMENT
- Excerpt from the commencement speech of Lauren Halak '24
This year's commencement keynote speaker was alumna Dr. Farah Jasmine Griffin ’81, the William B. Ransford Professor of English and Comparative Literature at Columbia University, where she also served as the inaugural Chair of the African American and African Diaspora Studies Department. She is a 2021 Guggenheim Fellow and an Andrew Mellon Foundation Scholar in Residence. She received her BA from Harvard, where she majored in American History and Literature and her PhD in American Studies from Yale.
Dr. Griffin concluded her remarks to the Class of 2024 saying, “You have the intellectual preparation, foundation and capacity, the ability to think independently, to engage in civil, constructive debate and dialogue, to reinvigorate our democracy. You have forged lifelong relationships that will both test and sustain you. You have learned how to create and sustain community through difficult times. You are the light in dark times, the matches struck unexpectedly in the dark, you are a glorious illumination in all of our lives.”
Far Left: Rabbi Linda Potemkem, from Congregation Beth Israel of Media, gave the Invocation.
Head of School Lynne Macziewski addressed the students, saying “You have shown me the true meaning of community and connection.”
FAST
The Class of 2024 received 368 acceptances at 176 unique institutions
Average ACT score (8 points higher than the national average)
29
1374
(340 points higher than the national average) of the class attended Baldwin since Kindergarten 22% admitted to schools with less than 15% admit rate 56% 95% were admitted to one of their TOP 3 SCHOOLS
AVERAGE SAT SCORE
Reunion Reunion
Reunion Reunion
Alumnae Awards Alumnae Awards
The 2024 Alumnae
Awards were presented on May 3. Seniors
Maren Cohen ’24 and Chloe Watson ’24
joined Head of School
Lynne Macziewski
to moderate a panel discussion with the award winners.
THE AWARD FOR LIFE ACHIEVEMENT
S ara J. Burns ’74
This award was established in 1991. It is given to an alumna who has either demonstrated a lifelong dedication and commitment to helping empower those who have struggled with challenges and societal barriers or who has had a significant impact on an institution or community.
Sara Burns was President and CEO of Central Maine Power (CMP) Company for 19 years before retiring in 2017. She began her career with CMP as a risk management manager. In her years with the company, she served as Chief Operating Officer, Vice President of Human Resources and Director of Financial Services. She is a graduate of Colby College.
Sara is a seasoned executive with a wealth of experience in the energy industry. She was known by many for her perseverance and wit; Sara gracefully navigated a field that men largely dominated at the time. However, over her 30-year career, Sara has held key leadership positions, including risk management, talent management, operations and corporate and regulatory strategy. During her three decades in the energy industry, she rose to the top quickly due to her leadership style, which focused on delivering results and fostering exceptional teams. Sara also earned her corporate recognition for customer satisfaction and leadership. She also has a proven track record in crisis management and community engagement.
THE ALUMNAE AWARD
Beth Morgan Hammack ’89
This award was established in 1967 to honor Rosamond Cross on her 25th anniversary as Head of School. It is given annually to an alumna who has distinguished herself in her field of endeavor and whose life reflects a dedication to the principles of The Baldwin School.
Beth Hammack recently announced she will be stepping down as co-head of the Global Financing Group at Goldman Sachs after over 30 years with the company. She previously served as global Treasurer of the firm and CEO of GS Bank USA and was a member of their senior-most leadership group - the Management Committee, and served on several other key groups. Beth was also the firmwide champion of the Goldman Sachs Women’s Network.
Beth's remarkable ascent and long tenure at Goldman Sachs is a testament to her dedication and leadership. Her contributions extend beyond her role at Goldman Sachs and her commitment to community service is further demonstrated by her role as a board member of Northwell Health and City Harvest. These roles reflect her dedication to making a positive impact outside of her professional career.
Scan here for more information on our Award Winners.
THE DISTINGUISHED
Awards Awards
YOUNG ALUMNA AWARD
Saleka Shyamalan ’14
This award, established in 1991, is given to an alumna who graduated within the last 25 years and has made significant contributions to her profession, avocation or volunteer services.
Saleka Shyamalan, a graduate of Brown University, is a classically trained Indian American musician who began playing piano at four. Saleka released her first full-length body of work, Séance, in 2023, a debut that shows both her love for R&B and her classical training. Following her own rules and creative genius, Saleka made a name for herself in the music industry and is doing the same in the film industry. Alongside her father, M. Night Shyamalan, Saleka is blending her love for music and film by co-collaborating on a new project. Trap, a hybrid concert thriller, debuted in August 2024. In addition to music and film, Saleka uses her voice influence to raise awareness for social justice reform, youth education and women’s rights.
Scan here for more photos.
BRILLIANTLY BALDWIN
Emi Maeda ’25 was named the 2024 Montgomery County Youth Poet Laureate (MCYPL) and will represent the Montgomery County poetry community in the next year. Emi's writing and personality captivated everyone at the MCYPL Program including the final judge, Michelle Taransky, a creative writing professor at the University of Pennsylvania. “Maeda writes with a bravado that can whisper through firework booms. Her poems are bildungsroman that offer possibilities for old ideas about where knowledge comes from,” said Judge Taransky.
I buried a dead beetle.
feeling like I had done something profound, I went to heaven. there, the beetle treats me to a cup of coffee, saying, my legs were cold. I look down at people filled in with the color gold. golden teeth, golden pores. stick figures stacked out of love, joy, and whatever your mother wanted you to have. I know, I promise.
that there are people that must be hated, but I can admire a human hand. and if you move far enough, you’ll see. this is a species kind enough to bury their dead.
- Emi Maeda ’25
The Baldwin Award is the highest honor given each year to a senior who has distinguished herself in pursuit of excellence in academics, the arts, leadership, service and sensitivity to others. This year’s recipient was Lauren Halak ’24 Scan the QR code to read more about Lauren and all of our Upper School Class Day Awards.
In her Advanced Design and Development Class for Computer Science and Engineering, Jade Davenport ’24 developed and produced a TiltRotor Glider that has the capacity to both hover and glide, allowing for precision and speed during flight.
Unlike similar existing aircrafts, the design uses three propellers for additional stability and range of motion. The design also more closely resembles a flying wing or glider aircraft, which will cause less drag and allow the plane to fly without additional thrust, in contrast to current tilt-rotors with a central fuselage. In addition, the ability to rotate and control each of the three propellers individually allows for far more precise motion while hovering or in flight. Scan the QR code for more details on the Tilt-Rotor Glider.
BRILLIANTLY BALDWIN
Trisha Yun ’24 won a Gold Key Scholastic Arts Award for her drawing “London Haze.”
Abigail Ahn '28 received the Ruth Fiesel ’38 Award from Middle School Director Dr. Shauna Carter during the Grade 8 Moving Up Ceremony and is described by her teachers and coaches as patient, kind, positive and ready to learn and tackle new challenges. Scan the QR Code to read more and see photos from the Grade 8 Moving Up Ceremony.
Joyce Chen ’28 won a Gold Key Scholastic Writing Award for her article “Summer of ’45.”
Summer of ’45
By Joyce Chen ’28
July 28, 1945
Dear Diary,
Today a soldier came to my house. He wore a gray cloak with the flag of our country on the shoulder and a shiny badge on his chest. The rising red sun matched his blood-spattered bandages, wrapped around a bone-thin leg. One end of the gauze had come loose and flopped with every step he took, as if clinging on for dear life. With hollow cheeks, his eyes were two ghosts of the past. I wasn’t sure what to do–welcome him in, or push him out? Is this what war does to people? I suppose I’ll never know, since I am a girl after all.
The Baiba Vasys Core Values Award was presented to Mae Racowski ’31 by Lower School Director Quenby Frimet at the Grade 5 Moving Up Ceremony. Mae is an engaged and respectful learner who always participates in lessons with enthusiasm and curiosity. Scan the QR Code to read more and see photos from the Grade 5 Moving Up Ceremony.
I called mama to the doorway, squeezing her hand tight, wishing, wishing, wishing. Because what else could I do? The soldier reached into his pocket and pulled out a piece of red paper–an akagami. Mama began to cry, though she tried to hide it from me, so I didn’t have to feel the pain of knowing my father was to be sent to the front.
To read the rest of this story and more details on all of the Brilliantly Baldwin items, scan here.
ThankYou...
...to Our Baldwin Community!
On behalf of all of our students, we are deeply grateful for the incredible generosity of our alumnae, parents, friends, faculty and staff who together have helped us raise $2,352,904. Your contributions play a vital role in empowering education, enriching experiences and fostering a vibrant community for our girls. Your commitment and dedication to our School and its mission ensures that each girl has the resources and opportunities they need to thrive and succeed in their academic and personal pursuits.
Thank you for your unwavering support and being an integral part of our community. We look forward to another exciting year ahead!