BALDWINECHOES THE MAGAZINE FOR ALUMNAE, STUDENTS, FAMILIES, AND FRIENDS OF THE BALDWIN SCHOOL
DREAMing
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WINTER 2015 REMEMBERING ANNE SHOEMAKER | ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME | HOMECOMING | SERVICE-LEARNING
Science lab in the 1980s.
Science class in the 1960s.
THEN&NOW aldwin is daring our girls to dream with the establishment of the DREAM Lab , which creates a foundation for learning and a genuine curiosity, interest, and passion for design, robotics, engineering, arts, and mathematics in the Lower and Middle Schools. This new initiative introduces our girls to the world of science and technology in a new and innovative way. Our Grade IV girls are working collaboratively to design a spinning robot while Grade III is exploring the Chinese culture through hand carving and painting their own functional dragon boats. Baldwin has always had a strong focus on science and the arts, but the DREAM Lab exemplifies these connections and takes it to new heights. We are excited to see where this will take us next.
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Middle School DREAM Lab in 2014. 速
FEATURES
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Remembering Anne Shoemaker
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Notable Alumnae in Science Many brilliant, dedicated, and determined Baldwin women have pursued a career in science. Here we recognize just a few of the gifted alumnae that have made a crucial impact in the world of science.
On Nov. 29, 2014, Anne Shoemaker, Baldwin’s fifth Head of School, peacefully passed away. The Baldwin School simply would not exist in its current form had it not been for Anne’s determination. A woman of both substance and grace, Anne is credited with moving the School into a new era.
ECHOESCONTENTS DEPARTMENTS
Editor: Lisa A. Algeo Design: acquireVisual.com
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UPFRONT
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ALUMNAE NEWSMAKERS
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ACADEMICS
Photo Credits: Katie Brogan, Lisa Algeo, Dawn Blake, Carrie Hill Photography, Nick Vechik, Susan Dorfman, Jay Gorodetzer, Kenny Delio, Chloe Sherman-Pepe, Mark Tassoni, Jin Park, Maddie Kropp All photographs are identified left to right unless otherwise noted.
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ARTS
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ATHLETICS
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HOMECOMING
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ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME
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FACULTY FOOTNOTES
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CLASS NOTES
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CLOSING THOUGHTS
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. 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 Advancement Office: Stacy Gallagher, Chief Advancement Officer sgallagher@baldwinschool.org or 610-525-2700, ext. 286 Echoes is printed on recycled paper.
ON THE COVER: Ryan Barnes, teaching fellow and Middle School DREAM Lab coordinator, works on a project with Brooke Weatherup ’21 in the new lab. ®
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UPFRONT BACK-TO-SCHOOL BBQ
FLORENCE BALDWIN DAY
At this year’s All-School Barbeque, Baldwin families gathered for food, face painting, cotton candy, tiny train rides, and lawn games like sack races, tug rope, and hula hoop. It was a wonderful example of the community’s connectedness.
The fourth annual Florence Baldwin Day took place on October 8. This is a celebration of Baldwin’s heritage and mission, honoring the School’s namesake and foundress, Florence Baldwin. Students, faculty, and staff celebrated with cake, cupcakes, and a visit from Florence Baldwin herself.
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s most of you have heard by now, I recently shared my plans to retire from our beloved School at the conclusion of the 2015-16 school year. The immediate outpouring of support, words of thanks and warm wishes have reminded me, once again, why I love Baldwin and why I will always be committed to the School’s success. Although I am excited about my next chapter, we still have many months together, and I am eager to continue our hard work toward our goals. We’ve had a great start to the year with our incredible girls continuing to make us proud. Our fifth graders launched a near space balloon (see page 9), members of our Middle School Chamber Ensemble “Malala” were in attendance as Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai was presented with the National Constitution Center’s 2014 Liberty Medal (see page 10), and 27 percent of our senior class were recognized as National Merit scholars (see page 9). Great things are happening and will continue as we strive to reach new heights together. Fundraising remains a priority as the Baldwin community continues to define its culture of philanthropy. I remain committed to advancing Baldwin’s mission and goals and preparing the School for its future, including the completion of The Simpson Center for the Performing Arts in honor of Lois Goutman. Let this be a time of celebration and anticipation for the next chapter in Baldwin’s history book. Like so many that have passed through these gates before me, I have been forever changed by Baldwin and will hold dear the many lessons I have learned from our wonderful thinking girls.
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2014-2015 NBA members include: Row 1 (Front): Margaret (Peg) Fritz Schneider ’50, Lila Slovak ’97, Catherine Skefos ’69; Row 2: Ann Cappalonga Bunn ’85, Elizabeth Yusem Fuerst ’65, Melanie Sheerr ’96, Stephanie Weiss ’02, Brenda McBride ’84, Kristen Warden ’04; Row 3: Margaret Schneider Maclay ’77, Emily Scott ’00, Leah Tulin ’99, Lyn Agre ’85; Row 4: Heather Young ’92, Elizabeth Duall Regard ’91, Jill Flaxman ’93, Lauren Sheerr ’00, Sara Scott ’96 (NBA Vice Chair). Not pictured: Laurie Caron Berzack ’86, Elizabeth Scott Breitner ’98, Elizabeth Haakinson Breziner ’60, Sara Burns ’74, Kathryn Buzby ’05, Katherine Collins ’06, Elizabeth Kennedy Duke ’83, Rachel Goldfarb ’95, Maya Cameron Houston ’87, Suzanne DiLenge Kraus ’90, Helen Haskell MacCallum ’68, Namita Mani ’94, Christina Morovati ’87, Jennifer Porges ’83, Jamie Ryan ’06, Karen Sendler ’90, Jennie Silverstein ’86, Maisha Smart ’90, Sarena Snider ’03, Amy Sobel ’86 (NBA Chair), Karen Untereker ’01, Jeannette Geter '00, Brooke Kronke Meyers '83.
NATIONAL BOARD OF ADVISORS UPDATE The National Board of Advisors (NBA) held its annual fall meeting on campus this November. The members present engaged in a two-day planning meeting comprising student interaction, faculty presentations, and discussions with the Head of School and Board Chair. The group has a committed focus centered on engaging alumnae and building stronger lines of communication with one another and the School. The committee structure focuses on the following areas: alumnae professional resources, alumnae outreach and regional events, and membership. The NBA is currently accepting nominations and all inquiries can be directed to Melissa DiNofia–Bozzone, director of advancement at mdinofia-bozzone@baldwinschool.org or 610-525-2700, ext. 268.
BALDWIN IN PHILADELPHIA Alumnae in the Philadelphia region joined Sally M. Powell, Head of School, and former and current faculty for drinks and hors d’oeuvres at The Racquet Club of Philadelphia in September. This event gave alumnae the chance to reconnect with friends and reminisce about their days as a Baldwin girl.
Pictured: Candace Amayo Embry ’02, Sarra Kaufman ’02, Alexis Rossman Madden ’02, Mary London ’02
BSPA EXECUTIVE BOARD The Baldwin School Parents’ Association (BSPA) Executive Board works to build a stronger community, raise funds through various events, and to facilitate communication. Pictured: Sandy Ross (P ’23), division representative (III – V); Shawn McLaughlin (P ’22, ’18), technology/communications; Jenny Cross (P ’23), treasurer; Pat Coler (P ’19), executive vice president; Claire Bunting (P ’18), vice president; Claudia Baldassano (P ’23, ’18), president; Beth Zemble (P ’22), past president; Kimberly Heuer (P ’27), assistant treasurer; and Vatsala Syed (P ’18, ’15), secretary. Not pictured: Sharna Liggett (P ’25), division representative (PreK – II); Lisa Rapetti (P ’19), division representative (VI – VIII); Tuyet Wong (P ’16), division representative (IX – XII); Michele Davey (P ’23) and Molly Rouse-Terlevich (P ’20), community liaisons; Susan Ryszka (P ’21), spirit gear; Heather Andrews (P ’15) and Sejita Page (P ’22, P ’19), board emeritus.
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BOARD OF TRUSTEES Baldwin’s 2014-2015 Board of Trustees members are Terry Steelman (Chair), Peter Leone (Vice Chair and Treasurer), V. Paige Pratter ’94 (Secretary), Patricia Dietrich, Kathy England, Elissa Getto ’65, Marcy Gringlas, Brian Halak, Tracey Holgren Ivey, Stephanie Romeika La Nasa ’96, Alexis Egan McCarthy ’81, Christopher Marr, Martha Ortiz, Marisa Porges ’96, Sally Powell, Kavita Daiya Rao, Eric Ruoss, Stephanie Cohn Schaeffer ’85, Amy Sobel ’86, Warren Thaler, and Margaretta Walton ’97. New members this year include:
SAVE THE DATE April 18: Join the Parents’ Association in celebration at the 2015 Baldwin Gala, Fireside Fling. This not-to-be-missed event will include silent and live auctions, dinner, dancing, and much more. Email gala@baldwinschool.org to donate an auction item or submit an idea. Visit baldwinschool.org/gala for more details.
Claudia Baldassano, MD, Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. She is the Director of the Bipolar Program and the Co-Director of the Mood Disorder Consultation Service at the University of Pennsylvania. She serves on the Board as Parent Trustee as President of the Baldwin School Parents’ Association. She has two daughters at Baldwin and a son at The Haverford School. Gretchen Boger, chair of Baldwin’s History Department. Previously, she was a Visiting Assistant Professor at Colorado College and a Lecturer at Princeton University, where she completed her Ph.D. in American History. She also holds a B.A. in History from Yale University. She lives in Philadelphia with her husband and two daughters, both Baldwin students. Stephen Raynes, Senior Partner of the Philadelphia-based law firm Raynes McCarty. He specializes in the representation of clients in serious injury and wrongful death cases in the areas of general personal injury, medical malpractice and product liability. He currently has a daughter at Baldwin. Philip S. Rosenzweig, Lower Merion Township Commissioner and partner in Silverang, Donohoe, Rosenzweig & Haltzman, LLC, a real estate, finance and business law firm located on the Main Line. He has a daughter at Baldwin and a son at The Haverford School.
May 2: The 12th Annual Alex Wake Memorial 5K Run & 1 Mile Family Fun Walk is set for Saturday, May 2 at 9 a.m. Join us to honor the memory of a compassionate Baldwin athlete, student, and friend — Alex Wake, Class of 2005. Read more at baldwinschool.org/alex-wake-run. May 2: All members of the Baldwin community and all alumnae classes are invited to the Spring Festival on Saturday, May 2 at noon. The Spring Festival will feature food trucks, beer and wine tastings, fun games and activities for all ages! For more details please baldwinschool.org/reunionweekend. 4
Carolyn Simpson Scott, MD, ’74, retired obstetriciangynecologist practicing in the Lehigh Valley. She is published in the field of adolescent gynecology. She has served on Baldwin’s National Board of Advisors, participated in Career Day, served as Reunion Committee chair and as a team leader for the parent annual fund raising. Carolyn recently received Baldwin’s Circle of Achievement award. She has a daughter who attended Baldwin, Class of 2011. Honorary trustees include Rachel Funk Jenkins ’44, Anne C. Shoemaker, Caroline M. Simon, Blair D. Stambaugh. Senior trustees are Rev. Robert T. Brooks, A. Steffen Wright Crowther ’68, John M. Dewey, Thomas P. Gerrity, Andrew Mozino, and Samuel R. Scott.
ALUMNAENEWSMAKERS JODY GERSON ’79 Jody Gerson ’79 has been named as the next Chairman and CEO of Universal Music Publishing Group, making her the first woman to lead a major music publishing company. The current co-president of Sony/ATV Publishing, she assumed her new role as Chairman and CEO on Jan. 1, 2015. “Baldwin gave me the foundation to believe that I could be accomplished in a career,” Jody said, praising her Baldwin teachers, especially former Head of Art Ruth Fackenthal, for having a tremendous influence on her life. “She believed in me even when I doubted myself.” After graduation from Baldwin, she earned a B.A. in Communications from Northwestern University in Chicago and got her first job in an entry-level position with Chappell Music (now Warner/ Chappell Music) copying lyric sheets and maintaining its vast library of sheet music. At night, she would stay late to listen to the new songs coming in from songwriters and try to figure out which artists could record them. She eventually got a job in Chappell’s A&R department. Jody said she is encouraged that women are becoming leaders in many fields, acknowledging that it continues to be a tricky balance between career and family but emphasizes it’s doable. “I won't compromise my job as a mother for any career opportunity. As a matter of fact when I spoke to my new boss at Universal, Lucian Grainge, I told him that my responsibilities as a mother come first,” Jody said. “I take my kids to school. I attend most school functions, watch my daughter in dance class, my son’s sport events, visit my older son at NYU, etc. I told him if he still wants me
knowing that family comes first, I would take the job as Chairman and CEO. He was completely supportive.” Gerson was in her previous position at Sony/ATV Music Publishing since 2008 and is responsible for signing some of the most successful artists in the world, including Lady Gaga, Alicia Keys, Norah Jones and Magic! frontman Nasri Atweh. She has also been instrumental in the careers of several artists, including Enrique Iglesias, Shakira, Pitbull and Pharrell Williams. “I’m excited to become the Chairman and CEO of Universal and am excited about what the future holds for women,” Jody said.
MARISA PORGES ’96 Marisa Porges ’96 has been appointed as a member of the 20142015 Class of White House Fellows. Marisa is the second Baldwin alumna to receive this honor, joining Kinney Zalesne ’83, who was a member of the White House Fellows Class of 1995-1996. Founded in 1964 by Lyndon B. Johnson, the White House Fellows program is one of America’s most prestigious programs for leadership and public service offering exceptional young men and women firsthand experience working at the highest levels of the federal government. Marisa has been placed with the National Economic Council, which will demand a capacity for quick learning and a willingness to work hard. She credits Baldwin with giving her both the critical skills and, most importantly, the confidence to succeed in her new role, saying “My Baldwin education provided me all the tools I need to take on this new
challenge – to solve problems, think creatively, and find my voice, whether I’m on a carrier, in a lecture hall, or at the White House. I can’t wait!” Selection as a White House Fellow is highly competitive and based on a record of professional achievement, evidence of leadership potential, and a proven commitment to public service. Prior to her appointment at the White House, Marisa was a post-doctoral research fellow at Harvard’s Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs. Her work focused on terrorism and counterterrorism. Prior to that, she was an international affairs fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations. Marisa previously served as a policy adviser in the U.S. Departments of the Treasury and Defense and in the Office of the Secretary of Defense for Policy. She began her career on active duty in the U.S. Navy, as a Naval Flight Officer and serves as a member of the Board of Trustees at Baldwin. Marisa received an A.B. with honors in geophysics from Harvard, an M.Sc. with distinction from the London School of Economics, and recently defended her Ph.D. at King’s College London. Her analysis has been published widely, including in Foreign Affairs, the New York Times, and the Wall Street Journal. “Marisa’s appointment is a great tribute to her and to Baldwin. President Obama is lucky to have such an accomplished public servant in the White House,” said Kinney. “Plus I know first-hand that Marisa will have a blast — it’s a phenomenal program. The White House Fellowship should aim for a Baldwin grad every couple of classes.”
MAKING HEADLINES? Contact Nova Morgan, donor stewardship manager, at nmorgan@baldwinschool.org
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Anne Shoemaker
REMEMBERING
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n Nov. 29, 2014, Anne Shoemaker, Baldwin’s fifth Head being a mother was just as prestigious as being a successful career of School, peacefully passed away. The Baldwin School woman. Recognizing the importance of hiring and keeping young simply would not exist in its current form had it not been faculty, she assisted in starting a nursery and day care center for for Anne’s determination. A woman of both substance and grace children of faculty. with a fantastic sense of humor, Anne is credited with moving the Shortly after her appointment, Anne pushed forward School into a new era while preserving its tradition as a place with implementing numerous changes to improve the School’s financial an abiding commitment to educating women. future. These changes were able to reduce the Anne began her role as Head of School in Her legacy of leadership, School’s debt by nearly $100,000, and a Director 1970. A graduate of Boston University, she of Development was hired to ensure fundraising compassion, and came to Baldwin in 1961 and was promoted to would remain a priority for Baldwin. unyielding commitment Head of the Mathematics Department in 1964. With these new changes, the Head of School Before coming to Baldwin, she worked as a could no longer simply afford to focus on the will forever live on. biometrician devoting her time primarily to internal operations of Baldwin. Anne took on research in penicillin and streptomycin under and succeeded in the roles of a fundraiser, the direction of Sir Alexander Fleming, winner lobbyist, administrator, mediator and of the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. cheerleader, all while maintaining close contact She also continued her work at Smith, Kline, with “her girls” who waved to her in her office and French Laboratories. each day as they filed past on their way to Anne and her family were very much a part lunch. She knew every girl by name and was of the Baldwin community and it was a natural always available to help her students through decision that she step forward after Rosamond any problem while overseeing the completion Cross’ failing health and resulting necessary of the new Lower School building in 1974 and resignation. Due to the changing social mores the beginning of the restoration of the porches of the 1960s, her succession came during a time in 1979. of great unrest within the School but Anne When she succeeded Rosamond Cross in quickly proved she was up for the challenge. 1970, Anne indicated that she would retire in It was a decade that needed thoughtful 1980 and by the summer of 1979, the School management and the Board search committee was running profitably, the debt was being knew that if anybody could handle an era of reduced, and the endowment had tripled. When dramatic change, Anne could. Anne retired in 1980 to the eastern shore of At the end of the 1960s, behavioral Maryland with her husband Reed, she left psychologist Dr. Rodney Napier was brought in behind a legacy that wouldn’t soon be forgotten. to conduct a study on the shift in morale in the After her retirement, Anne’s family remained School. Anne was chosen to serve as Chairman involved in the Baldwin community. A frequent of the Steering Committee of the Napier Study, afterschool staple at Baldwin and honorary a group of students and faculty tasked with member of the Class of 1973, Anne’s son Bill helping formulate “A Plan for the Seventies” served as Chair of Baldwin’s Board of Trustees. based on Napier’s findings. His daughter, Rachel, is a member of Baldwin’s The plan was designed to encourage greater participation in the Class of 2008, was a member of the first 14-Year Club, and is active decision-making process by those who would be most affected with the Alumnae Association. Both Bill and Rachel were involved including students, faculty, trustees, alumnae, and parents. It was in planning and celebrating the 125th anniversary at Baldwin. to be implemented in the fall of 1970 to ensure greater financial Anne is remembered as a committed educator whose smile and stability, but Anne never anticipated she would be the one to lead gentle demeanor made her a student, faculty, and staff favorite. Her the charge. legacy of leadership, compassion, and unyielding commitment will When she became Head of School, Anne already knew the girls forever live on and her unwavering pledge to Baldwin’s future has had and faculty and had proven herself to be an able leader and and will continue to have an impact on generations of Baldwin girls. conciliator. In her new role, she was able to effect the changes she Upon her retirement, the School established The Anne C. had previously recognized as essential to the ongoing health of the Shoemaker Fund. This fund underwrites yearly grants for faculty School. Former faculty members valued Anne’s innovation and enrichment and refreshment of self and spirit. More than 50 imagination, as well as her encouragement. members of our faculty and staff have received this award throughout the years. If you would like to make a gift to this fund, Living off campus with her husband Reed and their two please visit www.baldwinschool.org/gift and select the Anne C. teenage sons Skip and Bill, Anne had qualities and insights unlike Shoemaker Fund. previous Heads of School. She was outspoken about the fact that
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Academics BE HOOGALI EXCHANGE PROGRAM
SCIENCE RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM
2014-15 BALDWIN SCHOLARS
This fall, students from Baldwin and The Haverford School kicked off “Be Hoogali,” a new year-long exchange program with students from Ordrup Gymnasium in Copenhagen, Denmark. The name “Be Hoogali” comes from a mix of English and Danish languages while using the letters from each school. “Hyggelig” (pronounced hoogali) means coziness, tranquility, and a welcoming atmosphere in which to spend time with family and friends.
Four scientists from the Class of 2015, Taylor Chen, Abigail Andrews, Laura Noteware, and Jasmine Syed, spent their summers in research labs at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) Abramson Research Center, the University of Pennsylvania, and Thomas Jefferson University College of Medicine.
At Baldwin we believe that the success of our students stems in no small part from their passion for learning and their ability to be independent critical thinkers. Baldwin Scholars enables a small group of Grade XII students to extend their studies beyond the traditional Upper School curricula. In this concentrated, personalized and self-directed year-long course, seniors pursue advanced study and work in their field of interest. This year, four Scholars are participating. Ivelisse Ibrahim-Gonzalez is focusing on the obstacles Latinos face in obtaining medical care in the U.S. Laura Nguyen is examining stereotypes about and attitudes toward women in the NFL. Jordan Rai is looking at the possibilities and challenges in the application of data mining and machine learning techniques for medical diagnosis. Laura Noteware is looking at the issues that play into medical research funding, with a close case study of pancreatic cancer.
Baldwin and Haverford students hosted Ordrup Gymnasium students and participated in a two-day Global Summit in October. Discussion themes included environmental sustainability, economic policy, immigration and migration, and a culture of happiness. Conversations and collaborations will continue via video-conferencing through February, when the Baldwin and Haverford students will travel to Copenhagen to be hosted by their Danish visitor.
Students from The Haverford School, Ordrup Gymnasium, and Baldwin present their global superhero, Dr. Care Bear, during the Global Citizenship Seminar.
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The students put their investigative and critical-thinking minds to work completing graduate-level projects with their mentors, including the development of a safe and effective way to reduce the immune response, finding novel therapeutic strategies for pancreatic cancer patients, studying prenatal genetic therapy, and learning how the ARV1 gene functions and how its deletion is linked to heart disease. “It is always amazing to see the level of work and the understanding of these young scientists as they tackle potentially life-changing problems,” said Science Department Chair Christie Reed.
Pictured: Laura Nguyen, Laura Noteware, Ivelisse Ibrahim-Gonzalez, and Jordan Rai.
NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARS Fourteen seniors have been recognized by the National Merit® Scholarship Program this year. Xueming (Caroline) Cai, Rachel Dichter, Ting Fang, Sherrie Li, Jasmine Syed, Alexandra Thaler, Hannah Tipperman and Rachel Zachian are recognized as Semifinalists, while Abigail Andrews, Julia Busby, Amber Dugan, Laura Noteware, Rachael Tipperman, and Valerie Yoshimura were named National Merit Commended Students.
Katie McMahon ’22 helps to launch the space balloon.
SPACE BALLOON LAUNCH Baldwin’s Grade V students launched a space balloon on October 1. The students were the winners of a space kit and one of only two elementary schools and the only school in the Philadelphia area to win this distinguished honor. The class constructed the balloon and its contents including an attached GoPro camera to take video of the ascent, descent and the curvature of the planet from near space. They also sent up a flight computer to gather pertinent data like altitude, temperature, pressure, and wind speed; a GPS tracker to keep tabs on the balloon; and a parachute to slow the descent so the equipment could withstand the intense heat of reentry as well as the impact. The balloon was recovered in Runnemede, NJ, and revealed stunning video, which you can view at http://bit.ly/BaldwinSpaceBalloon Launch.
DREAM LAB® EXPANDS TO MIDDLE SCHOOL The DREAM Lab® is continuing its momentum and expanding to the Middle School for the 2014-15 school year, building on the foundations of programming, design, and discovery. Lessons and workshops emphasize the scientific and engineering process and provide opportunities for students to collect and analyze data, document their progress and share what they have accomplished in the community. The Middle School girls have been hard at work producing their own chess sets, custom designed in 3D CAD software and printed on our 3D printers. They also have been applying their new skills to produce multi-rotor frames for their own custom-made micro quadcopters that they will build and fly.
MIDDLE SCHOOL LEADERS Twelve Middle School students participated in a Middle School Leadership Conference, where they engaged in conversations about leadership styles and strategies. They were charged with identifying solutions for a need in their Middle School community, which is an ongoing activity that will culminate in the creation of a video this spring. Grade VI will focus on developing and implementing an action plan concerning Dining Room logistics, Grade VII is exploring food waste and recycling, and Grade VIII is working on ideas to develop community.
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Arts BALDWIN'S MALALA ATTENDS LIBERTY MEDAL CEREMONY On Tuesday, October 21, members of Baldwin’s select Middle School Chamber Ensemble “Malala” attended the 2014 Liberty Medal ceremony at the National Constitution Center where Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani teenager who was shot by the Taliban for championing girls' education, was presented with the National Constitution Center’s 2014 Liberty Medal. Named a Nobel Peace Prize winner on October 10, Malala was honored with the Liberty Medal for her continued demonstration of courage and resilience in the face of adversity and for serving as a powerful voice for those who have been denied their basic human rights and liberties.
The current members of Malala are Meghna Sreedhar ’20, flute; Katie Cappola ’19, cello; Tessie Katz ’20, violin; Charisma Hasan ’20, cello; Carly Mitchell ’21, violin; and Melody Yu ’20, piano and violin.
ALL-SCHOOL AUTUMN ART EXHIBITION The All-School Autumn Art Exhibition was unveiled in the fall. The show highlighted work from the Lower School and Middle School as well as all five studios of the Upper School. This year, we added something new to the mix: the ancient art of jewelry meets 21st century technology. Upper School jewelry classes used the computer-aided design (CAD) program Rhino and a 3-D printer to design and manufacture bangle-style bracelets. After designing their one-of-a kind bracelets, the students then chose from a wide choice of material and color during the printing process. This CAD-designed bracelet was created by Caroline Sterman ’18.
Pastel pumpkin still life drawings by Grade V students.
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Ceramic piece by Kristy Wong ’16.
FAMILY ARTS DAY Baldwin families, friends and staff attended the second Family Arts Day, with many parents and non-Baldwin family members attending the workshops. Guests attended workshops in ceramics, jewelry, drama, piano, painting, handbells, singing, “rock band” jam, and hip hop. The atmosphere in the Residence was vibrant. Painters had colorful works of art to take home, hip hop dancers busted a move in the Assembly Room, and singers — led by Music Department Chair Cathie Schulte, Audrey Senior ’18 and Alice Simon (P ’17) —raised the roof of the Chorus Room. Young potters made beautiful clay whistles in the ceramics studio and jewelers had simple yet stunning copper medallions to show off to their friends. Our musicians played everything from classical piano to rock to handbells, filling The Residence with music.
MASKERS PERFORM CHAMBER MUSIC The Maskers fall play, Chamber Music by Arthur Kopit, was a strong ensemble piece that tells the story of eight women who are, or believe themselves to be, famous women from history who are all interned in a mental institution. The play tackles the questions of whether the world is open to women of great ideas and if women have authentic power. Performing Arts Chair, Drama Teacher, and Director Cynthia Angst chose the play because it created a strong ensemble piece in an intimate setting and provided mature complex roles for each actor. “Chamber Music is a play that allows the audience to enjoy the brilliance and wit of eight historic women, yet at the same time it forces us to confront a dark side of human nature,” Cynthia said. “I am enormously proud of each girl's talent and commitment to this mature play.”
MAKING MUSIC AT BALDWIN In November, the Middle School concert featured the MS Chorus, Orchestra, Grade VIII Handbells, Malala (the select instrumental chamber music ensemble), Grade VI & VII guitar ensembles and several Grade VII small creative ensembles. The evening was a delightful display of Baldwin's amazing music programs and the joy that Baldwin’s girls experience while making music. In early December, Baldwin’s Eliza-B-thans and Firenze (US chamber music ensemble) presented a lovely program of music to accompany the Nutcracker Tea at Montrose Mansion, Villanova Conference Center. In addition, the Baldwin Eliza-B-thans and B-Flats were heard caroling during the 15-minute intermissions of the Electrical Spectacle Holiday Light Show in Franklin Square, in Philadelphia.
GRADE VIII DRAMA BRINGS MURDER & MAYHEM Students from the Grade VIII second period drama class presented their class project performance, We All Fall Down. The play, originally created by drama teacher Aileen McCulloch with 8th grade students from Twin Valley Middle School in Berks County, is about a team slumber party where things go horribly wrong. The 14 Grade VIII girls were excited to explore the original play, rewrite it and perform it for an assembly. This fun, 35 minute murder mystery entertained and even taught some valuable lessons about leadership and being part of a team.
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Athletics MEXICO SOCCER TEAM PRACTICES AT BALDWIN The Mexico Women’s National Soccer team practiced at Baldwin’s Lower Field on Saturday, October 25. The team was in Philadelphia along with USA, Costa Rica, and Trinidad and Tobago teams competing for the 2014 CONCACAF Women’s Championship. Mexico finished in third place in the tournament and earned a berth to the 2015 World Cup being played in Canada. Members of the Middle and Upper School soccer program attended the open practice and were fortunate to receive a private training session directed by Mexico Head Coach Leonardo Cuellar. Additionally, the girls received autographs, took photos and even practiced speaking a little Spanish with the Mexican players. The open practice allowed the Baldwin girls to see how professional athletes train and prepare mentally and physically for high-level competition.
NOTEWARE ’15 SELECTED TO USROWING HONOR ROLL Laura Noteware ’15, Varsity Crew co-captain, was selected to the USRowing Scholastic Honor Roll team for 2014-15. The USRowing Scholastic Honor Roll recognizes high school seniors who have excelled in both academics and rowing. In total, 164 student athletes applied from 79 schools. Only 49 student athletes earned spots on the Honor Roll. Applicants must be USRowing members, have rowed or coxed at least one year, and successfully competed at or above the league or regional level.
JV TENNIS COMPLETES PERFECT SEASON The JV Tennis team completed the fall season with a perfect 11-0 overall record and 6-0 in the Inter-Ac League. The Bears, under the direction of Head Coach Roni Sacks, finished first in the Inter-Ac for the third straight season. Pictured: Row 1 (Front): Maya Hairston ’18, Francesca Douglas ’18, Emily Thompson ’18, Juliana Kho ’18, Mary Rose Shields ’18, Haley Smith ’18, Sharzad Shojaian ’18. Row 2 (Back): Head Coach Roni Sacks, Tara McMahon ’18, Sanjana Dixit ’18, Quinn Funston ’16, Dagny Tepper ’17, Alexis McCall ’18, Amanda Kichline ’16, Josephine Gantz ’18, Madeleine Marr ’17, Janny Wang ’15.
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The soccer team performs core training exercises in preparation for the fall season at scenic Camp Rim Rock.
US SOCCER ENJOYS PRE-SEASON TRIP TO CAMP RIM ROCK The Upper School Soccer program traveled to Camp Rim Rock in Yellow Springs, WV, for pre-season training. The camp is owned and operated by Baldwin parents Joe and Robin Greitzer (P ’16). The team enjoyed two-a-day practices, fun team-building activities and a friendly scrimmage game against a local club team.
COLLEGE COACHES SPEAK AT BLUE GRAY SPORTS SYMPOSIUM Six Philadelphia area college coaches and one former Baldwin student-athlete presented helpful tips and insight on the college recruiting and selection process to students and parents at the 2014 Blue Gray Sports Symposium held on October 8. John White (Drexel University Head Squash Coach), Kelsey Engman (Drexel University Assistant Squash Coach), Bobbi Morgan (Haverford College Head Basketball Coach), Amanda Janney (Temple University Head Field Hockey Coach), Caitlin Powderly (Villanova University Assistant Lacrosse Coach), Todd Wawrousek (Widener University Head Soccer Coach) and former Baldwin tennis star Jen Newman ’10 (Amherst College ’14 Tennis All-American) highlighted the presentation.
Olivia Horwitz ’16, Alexa Horwitz ’15, and Margaret Frantz ’17 are recognized before hundreds of squash fans at the Drexel University Daskalakis Athletic Center during the US Open Tournament held in October, along with other scholar athletes from around the area.
EIGHT BALDWIN GIRLS NAMED US SQUASH SCHOLAR ATHLETES Seven current Baldwin studentathletes and one alumna earned the 2013-14 US Squash Scholar Athlete Award. Selena Maity ’14, a current freshman on the Yale University squash team, and current students Alexa Horwitz ’15, Rachel Zachian ’15, Olivia Horwitz ’16, Angela Luo ’16, Morgan Steelman ’16, Margaret Frantz ’17, and Pallavi Sreedhar ’17 were recipients of the prestigious honor. The award is given to high school student athletes who achieved a grade point average of 3.5 in school and participated in at least four US Squash accredited events.
TUNIC WARS The Baldwin-Haverford tradition of Tunic Wars continued this year in November, with Baldwin and Haverford Middle School students competing against one another in field hockey, soccer, tennis, and volleyball. Sally Powell poses for a picture with Haverford Head of School John Nagl, who proudly wears his Baldwin tunic.
MS SOCCER UNDEFEATED INTER-AC CHAMPS The Middle School soccer team went a perfect 6-0 in the Inter-Ac League and finished the season 10-1 overall. The Bears outscored their opponents 48-16. Pictured: (Front Row): Margaret Fleischner ’20, Sammy Baron ’20, Leah White ’20, Georgia Paynter ’21, Jane McAleese ’19, Vivienne Evans ’20, Charisma Hasan ’20, Celia Page ’19, Lauren Bracken ’19, Natalie Sgro ’19, Elina Emami ’21, Kahlia Bailey ’21, Bradleigh Bell ’20. (Back Row): Coach Damian Evans, Grace Kirwan ’21, Lilli Dowdall ’19, Arianna Channer ’21, Lexi Phelan ’19, Azzaya Johnson ’19, Rani Bleznak ’21, Jordyn Allen ’20, Simi Bleznak ’19, Juliet Paiva ’19, Abigail Dubinski ’21, Hannah Plotkin ’21, Coach Adrian Cox.
Jen Newman ’10 (far right) speaks to the audience about the college recruiting process. WINT ER 2015 E C H O E S
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Homecoming
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aldwin’s campus turned into the Olympic Village for Homecoming 2014 in October. The varsity teams
started the weekend on Friday night with the traditional team skits, BBQ and bonfire, and they unveiled the stars-and-stripes-themed Homecoming gear, all presented by the Upper School Athletic Association. Saturday’s events featured the sixth annual Pancake Breakfast, presented by Blue Gray. Students of all ages then participated in Middle Field activities
Parents Joe Sgro (P ’19), Howard Phillips (P ’17) and Catherine Kiser (P ’17) are all smiles at the Blue Gray Pancake Breakfast.
directed by student clubs, followed by the varsity athletic competitions against Inter-Ac League foe Springside Chestnut Hill Academy (SCHA). The Baldwin Bears split the four contests against the visiting Blue Devils. Tennis and Soccer won their games while Field Hockey and Volleyball dropped close decisions. The weather was beautiful all weekend and the school community united to display tremendous school spirit and pride.
Lauren Wang ’18 follows through on a powerful serve.
Sticks in! Co-captains Eliza Mantelmacher ’15 and Alexa Horwitz ’15 lead the field hockey team cheer before the game. 14
Upper School students cheer on the Bears from Lower Field hill: (Bottom Row): Sanjana Friedman ’17, Jane Bradley ’17, and Lindsay Gordon ’17. (Top Row): Natalia Schafer ’18 and Francesca Douglas ’18.
Alexa Diecidue ’19 and Natalie Sgro ’19 (seated) and Savannah Sanford ’19, Spanish Teacher Gabbie Alvarez-Spychalski and Azzaya Johnson ’19 all enjoy a beautiful afternoon.
Varsity Cross Country leads the pack at the Belmont Plateau.
Varsity volleyball celebrates a point.
Natalia Schafer ’18 finds time to make a spirit sign at the Pancake Breakfast.
Krista Hinchman ’15 dribbles past a SCHA defender in front of a packed Lower Field crowd.
Rachel White ’18, Krista Hinchman ’15 and Marissa McGarrey ’18 celebrate a goal in the victory against SCHA.
Aliki Karnavas ’15 and Sophia Block ’16 display their artwork on Middle Field.
Olivia Landes ’18, Mariana Leone ’18, Madeleine Carre’ ’16, Cristina Artis ’17, and Sara Seyedroudbari ’16 sing the national anthem before the field hockey game. WINT ER 2015 E C H O E S
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Notable Alumnae in
Science any brilliant, dedicated, and determined Baldwin women have pursued a career in science. Baldwin prides itself on providing girls with a strong foundation for learning and a genuine curiosity, interest, and passion for critical exploration that will guide them for years to come. Beginning with our youngest students in the Lower School DREAM Lab®, Baldwin is fostering a love of discovery. By expanding the DREAM Lab® into Middle School and continuing to offer Upper School programs such as our Science Research Symposium, Baldwin Scholars, and numerous science and computer science courses, Baldwin is launching tomorrow’s leaders in science, technology, robotics, engineering, and mathematics.
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Here we recognize just a few of the gifted alumnae that have made a crucial impact in the world of science. Their work and accomplishments are a testament that a Baldwin education can lead to professional success and also help to solve some of the enormous challenges facing modern society. These influential women serve as great examples of the possibilities that lie ahead for future generations of thinking girls.
Scholarship Fund Created in Memory of
Notable Alumna Abigail Adams Silvers, MD ’52 bigail Adams Silvers, MD, was raised in Paoli and graduated from The Baldwin School in 1952, Mount Holyoke College in 1956, and the University of Pennsylvania, School of Medicine, with honors, in 1961. She was one of only six women in a class of 125. Dr. Silvers served her professional career as a physician in Oncology and Hematology at Bryn Mawr Hospital and was the Chief of Oncology Services there from 1982 to 1993. Dr. Silvers served on the Lower Merion Board of Health for 16 years and as President for seven of those years. She was also on the advisory board of Hospice, Eldernet and the Augustinian Health Committee of Villanova University. In 2002, she received the Baldwin School Award for Life Achievement for her significant impact on her community.
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Dr. Silvers died in the summer of 2005 from lung cancer. Following her death, her husband Willys K. Silvers, was named an honorary member of the class of 1952 - a first in Baldwin’s history. He created the Abigail Adams Silvers, MD ’52 Scholarship Fund in 2005, which provides an exceptional Upper School student the opportunity to attend Baldwin and thereby enhancing the strength and diversity of the Baldwin student body. The importance of financial assistance in fulfilling students’ academic and career potential cannot be understated. In today’s economy, the number of students who otherwise might not have access to a first-class education is increasing. If you would like to make a contribution to this fund or establish your own scholarship fund to support students at Baldwin, please contact Nova Morgan, donor stewardship manager, at 610-525-2700 ext. 421 or nmorgan@baldwinschool.org.
Dr. Louise A. Dolan ’67 Mathematical Physicist and Professor of Physics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill » Wellesley College, B.A. Physics, 1971 » Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Ph.D. Theoretical Physics, 1976 » Fulbright Scholar » Harvard University Junior Fellowship, 1976-1979 » Maria Goeppert-Mayer Award of the American Physical Society, 1987 » Guggenheim Fellowship, 1988 » Baldwin Distinguished Young Alumna Award, 1991 » Wellesley College Alumnae Achievement Award, 2004
Dr. Dolan is considered to be one of the foremost experts in the field of theoretical particle physics and superstring theory. Her work is at the forefront of particle physics today. After graduating as a physics major, Dr. Dolan received a Fulbright Scholarship and studied at the University of Heidelberg in Germany. She received her Ph.D. in theoretical physics and was a junior fellow in the Society of Fellows at Harvard University from 1976 to 1979. Dr. Dolan’s numerous brilliant discoveries have defined the study of elementary particle physics. In 1974, she co-authored Symmetry Behavior at Finite Temperature, now regularly cited. Her work has revolutionized string theory, and she is considered to be one of the originators of the field. She is a Fellow of the American Physical Society and has authored more than 80 scientific publications. Dr. Dolan is also the principal investigator on a Department of Energy grant, which funds the string theory program at Chapel Hill.
Dr. Megan N. Dethier ’71 Marine Intertidal Ecologist and Research Professor University of Washington » Carleton College, B.A. Biology, magna cum laude, 1975 » University of Washington, Ph.D. Department of Zoology, 1981 » Phi Beta Kappa 1975 » National Science Foundation Graduate Fellowship, 1975 - 1979 » Friday Harbor Laboratories Postdoctoral Fellowship, 1983 » Shoals Marine Lab, Cornell University Stifel Faculty Fellowship, 2002 - 2003 » Naturalist of the Year, Western Society of Naturalists, 2011
Dr. Dethier is a research professor in the biology department at the University of Washington. Her specific topics of interest are: ecology of shorelines and the effects of environmental characteristics and stresses on the character and diversity of local communities; animal-sediment interactions; plant-herbivore interactions; the effects of intertidal stresses on energy allocation patterns in intertidal algae; and the classification, long-term monitoring, and maintenance of biodiversity of intertidal habitats. Dr. Dethier has published more than 50 scientific journal articles as well as a book on monitoring rocky shores called The Effects of an Oil Spill and Freeze Event on Intertidal Community Structures in Washington; Final Report, Prepared for the U.S. Department of the Interior, Minerals Management Service (OCS study). Her greatest pleasure comes from teaching marine biology to undergraduate students around the world. In 2011, she was named Naturalist of the Year by the Western Society of Naturalists.
Dr. Shubha Lakshmi Bhat ’05 Internal Medicine Resident Brigham and Women’s Hospital » Harvard University, B.A. Economics, Health Policy, 2009 » Stanford University School of Medicine, M.D., 2013 » MIT-Network of Educators in Science and Technology Award
Dr. Bhat’s love of science began while she was at Baldwin. She was awarded the MIT-Network of Educators in Science and Technology Award and won multiple science competition awards. As an involved member of the Baldwin community, participating in the Debate Team and the Diversity Club, as well as writing for The Hourglass, Dr. Bhat headed to Harvard with the same intensity. She focused her volunteer efforts in the medical field, volunteering for World AIDS Day and the Association of Private Health Facilities in Tanzania. She also created a Harvard Chapter of the Health Advocacy Program. After leaving Harvard, Dr. Bhat continued her work with the Health Advocacy Program at Stanford where she served as the chapter’s advisor. Dr. Bhat recently graduated from medical school and is currently an Internal Medicine Resident at Brigham and Women’s Hospital.
Additional Notable Alumnae in Science » Dr. Dorothy Anna Hahn, 1894 Professor of Organic Chemistry at Mount Holyoke College » Dr. Eleanora Frances Bliss Knopf, 1900 United States Geologist » Dr. Jane Kellock Setlow ’36 Biologist and Pioneer in DNA and Genetic Research » Dr. Jean Mackerley Buist ’37 Woman Pioneer in Veterinary Science » Dr. Rebecca Trent Kirkland ’60 Emeritus Pediatrics Professor at Baylor College of Medicine, Notable Pediatrician, Endocrinologist » Dr. Margaret Scott “Scottie” Robinson ’69 Professor of Molecular Cell Biology at Cambridge Institute for Medical Research at University of Cambridge » Diane Walton Wood ’69 President of the National Environmental Education Foundation » Dr. Kate Miller ’78 Dean of the College of Geosciences, Professor of Geology and Geophysics » Dr. Elizabeth Heilig ’94 Senior Scientist at Momenta Pharmaceuticals » Dr. Leigh Baxt ’99 Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Massachusetts General Hospital To read more on each Notable Alumnae in Science, visit http://bit.ly/BaldwinNotablesin Science.
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LACROSSE, TENNIS, BASKETBALL, S O F T B A L L , F I E L D H O C K E Y, C O A C H
Rachel Funk Jenkins ’44
On November 6, 2014, Baldwin honored its 2014-2015 Athletic Hall of Fame inductees. Four individuals and one team were recognized for their dedication to athletics and their achievements. The Athletic Hall of Fame celebrates excellence and extraordinary achievement in athletics. These impressive athletes have been instrumental in helping mold Baldwin athletics to what it is today. We celebrate these women who are proof that Baldwin girls’ determination and commitment extend beyond the classroom.
The Baldwin School Athletic Hall of Fame celebrates the 2014 inductees (from left to right) Seated: Coach Margot Cunningham (1961-1974, 1976-1991), Rachel Funk Jenkins ’44, Louise “Topsy” Ward ’60; Middle Row: Lisa Yaffe Sprafkin ’89, Jennifer Howson Lee ’88; Top Row: Julia Wood DeVuono ’84 (accepted for her sister, Melissa Wood Brewster ’89), Alison Pressman Schickfus ’88, 1987 Lacrosse Coach Deborah White, Emily Crane ’89 (accepted for her sister Amanda Crane Mann ’87), Ann Heatherington ’89, Wendy Strauss ’85.
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Rachel Funk Jenkins is an alumna, a former member of the faculty, and a former Chair of the Board of Trustees. She was heavily involved in the athletics program from the time she started at Baldwin in Grade VIII. While a student, she played on many Judy Hedges ’62 presents teams and then later returned as a physical Rachel Funk Jenkins ’44 with education teacher, coach, and head of the her Hall of Fame plaque. athletic department. Known for her calm, wise manner, she is cherished for her love of all things Baldwin. When Rachel entered Baldwin, participation in competitive sports was only available for Upper School students. Although she was only in Grade VIII when she started at Baldwin, Rachel played on many different teams that year and remembers fondly how she looked forward to spending time with the older girls on the field. Rachel played lacrosse, tennis, basketball, softball, and was the head of the field hockey team. She was a member of the all-star field hockey team comprised of girls from Shipley and other area schools that competed against teams from other countries and was named “Most Athletic” by her peers. For Rachel, the day began at three when she could gather with her teammates for practice or a game. In 1942, she received the White Blazer, which she says was a nice surprise. In 1952, Rachel returned to Baldwin from the University of Pennsylvania, where she was a physical education instructor after graduating from Penn with a B.A. in Psychology and an M.S. in Education. While a member of the faculty, Rachel coached field hockey, basketball, lacrosse, tennis, and badminton. She steered Baldwin’s 1961 field hockey team through an undefeated season and created the badminton program. Rachel is remembered fondly by the women she coached for her ethics, good sportsmanship and her never-failing pursuit of not only winning, but of excellence. Her former students agree that Rachel made sure that each player felt equally important on and off the field. Rachel is remembered for the individual attention she gave students that allowed them to build a sense of teamwork. Her winning spirit and fun attitude, along with her commitment to excellence afforded her the ability to always provide positive reinforcement for a job well done, as well as be caring and supportive in the face of defeat. Rachel’s zest and can-do spirit has always been a valuable asset to the athletic department at Baldwin. She credits her involvement in sports at the School with providing her valuable life skills, such as the ability to work with and lead a team, which she has carried with her throughout her life. She is still a huge fan of Baldwin athletics and reads the sports section of the newspaper every day to keep current with today’s teams. Rachel Funk Jenkins has and continues to serve her alma mater well.
F I E L D H O C K E Y, L A C R O S S E , B A S K E T B A L L , B A D M I N T O N
Louise “Topsy” Cowgill Ward ’60 The majority of Topsy’s most treasured Baldwin memories revolve around her involvement in sports and the relationships she developed with her fellow teammates and coaches. An avid field hockey, lacrosse, basketball, and badminton player, she has warm recollections of the many Friday afternoon games spent on the various Baldwin fields and courts. Topsy said she always loved the athletic side of Baldwin and that she would look forward to practice every day. She was head of the Athletic Association and played goalie for the varsity field hockey team in Grades X - XII. Topsy was a founding member of Baldwin’s first badminton team, whose undefeated season was quite impressive as they only faced college teams. She remembers fondly the honor of winning the White Blazer, saying it was a special treat. Topsy said she will never forget the moment she learned how to cradle in lacrosse after hours and hours of less than coordinating effort, pizza parties after games with her teammates and Miss Funk, and the joy of beating rival Shipley in “anything at any time.” In one humorous account of her days as a student at Baldwin, Topsy shared how, as president of the Athletic Association, she attempted to address the ongoing crow problem on the hockey playing field by creating a fun competition to reclaim it. “I organized a scarecrow contest and the scarecrows were to be made to look like Miss Funk,” she said. “It didn’t work at keeping the crows away, but we all had a good laugh.” More than anything, Topsy remembers the rich relationships she developed with her teammates and coaches, saying she is
extremely appreciative of her coaches and is happy that she and Rachel Funk Jenkins are being inducted together, as they are good friends now. Mary Oehrle French ’60 poses with Louise “Topsy” Ward ’60. She said her coaches were excellent role models, committed to the development of the player’s athletic abilities, as well as their personal development. After graduating from Baldwin, Topsy went to the University of Colorado to study history but did not continue her involvement in sports, saying it just wasn’t the same. However, she found other ways to maintain her connection to athletics over the years. She had the honor of carrying the Olympic torch in Atlanta in 1996 and was instrumental in creating the Rachel Jenkins Athletic Scholarship. Topsy credits Baldwin’s athletic program with allowing her to appreciate and understand team work and providing her with the drive to always strive for excellence, which has helped her throughout her life. She worked for Pan Am, American Express and Clorox before pursuing her passion of working with animals, while addressing the issue of world hunger, as a volunteer in Arkansas with Heifer Project International. She lives on a ranchette in Florida with goats, cows, dogs, and a horse and she enjoys spending time at her vacation home in North Carolina.
COACH
Margot Cunningham (1961-1974, 1976-1991) Margot Cunningham was a member of Baldwin’s Physical Education department for 28 years. A dedicated member of the community, she taught Grades K-XII and coached multiple teams including field hockey, lacrosse, swimming, basketball, and tennis. A strong leader, she is exactly what the Athletic Hall of Fame is all about. Margot came to The Baldwin School from Boston. She was excited to be in an area with more teams and coaching opportunities for field hockey and lacrosse, explaining that in Boston there were only enough teams for a six-game season. She remembers fondly her most victorious seasons with Baldwin, leading the field hockey team in an undefeated season in 1986 and coaching the 1979 lacrosse team during its undefeated season that year. Dedicated to Baldwin athletics, she served as the advisor of the Athletic Association and advisor of the ski club, in addition to
coaching. She was also the Grade VI advisor and took four touring field hockey teams to Europe. Margot said she always Pat West and Margot Cunningham. enjoyed going to work and loved the time she spent coaching at Baldwin saying, “Baldwin girls are intelligent girls that have the will to work.” She said these qualities were especially important on the field, explaining, “In field hockey, you’ve got to have brains because you can only use the flat side of your stick and it makes it a very interesting game.” At her retirement in 1991, the Athletics department created the Margot Cunningham Sports Commitment Award in her honor, given annually at the Athletics Banquet.
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TENNIS, BASKETBALL
Wendy Strauss ’85 Wendy Strauss has always been an athletic force to be reckoned with. A member of the 13-Year Club when she graduated in 1985, she was dedicated to the athletic program at Baldwin during her time here. A strong tennis player and leader, Wendy played on Baldwin’s varsity tennis team for five years and was the team captain during her senior year. She was coached by Baldwin’s Suzanne Valutas and demonstrated her extended dedication to the sport by also training at Julian Krinsky in Narberth. Although she excelled at tennis, it wasn’t Wendy’s only sport at Baldwin. She established herself as a solid team player as the captain of the varsity basketball team and co-head of the Athletic Association her senior year. Playing singles, Wendy helped drive the Baldwin tennis team to victory in 1984 with an outstanding 5-1 season, winning them second place in the recently formed Inter-Ac League. Wendy was a commendable athlete and was recognized throughout her time at Baldwin. In 1984, she was awarded the Steffen Wright Tennis Award and in 1985, as a senior, she won the White Blazer for her athletic accomplishments. When she graduated from Baldwin, Wendy went on to attend Rice University where she studied behavioral sciences and after graduation, she moved to Florida.
Wendy has continued to play tennis over the years and in 2000, she became a Stephanie Cohn Schaeffer ’85 introduces her United States classmate Wendy Strauss ’85 at this year’s Professional Hall of Fame. Tennis Association (USPTA) Certified Professional. She has lived around the world in Paris, London, and in New York City, where she was able to combine her love of tennis and service to her community teaching inner-city children how to play tennis. Recently, in 2012, she was named Women’s Open Player of the Year by the United States Professional Tennis Association Midwest Division, which honors those who stand out in all aspects of the tennis industry. In 2013, Wendy was ranked United States Tennis Association #5 in Women’s Open Singles in Chicago and United States Tennis Association #5 Women’s Open Player in the Midwest, which is the second largest of the 17 divisions. Today, Wendy is a 4.5 United States Tennis Association player and plays singles on her club team. She continues to make Baldwin proud of her continued achievements in athletics and embodies the Athletic Hall of Fame award criteria of camaraderie, teamwork, and commitment.
T E A M AWA R D H O N O R E E
1987 Lacrosse Team In 1987, Baldwin witnessed one of its most successful lacrosse teams power through an impressive season. Baldwin honors its 1987 lacrosse team for continuing to set the bar high for Baldwin teams and not only embodying but committing themselves to the Athletic Hall of Fame criteria of camaraderie, teamwork, and dedication. Noted throughout the season for being a young team, these Bears proved age is just a number as they finished with an overall record of 5-1-1 and won the Inter-Ac Championship. Leading the team was Coach Debbie White whom players called the best coach they’ve ever had. She was physically and mentally demanding of her players, providing “mental toughness talks” on Wednesdays and making the girls alternate between long distance runs one day and sprints the next. But she always believed in what they could accomplish. She made Baldwin proud, leading the team to victory proving yet again that Baldwin girls can do anything they set their minds to.
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FACULTYFOOTNOTES Each year faculty and staff are invited to apply for grants that provide opportunities to explore new areas of their discipline or to recharge after a busy school year. The following grants were awarded in 2014:
REED FELLOWSHIP FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING Named in honor of Cynthia Marjorie Lindsay Reed ’39, Schmalzried this award provides funds to further enhance a faculty member’s role in the classroom. Cynthia Schmalzried will travel to the UK during spring break to visit Cambridge University and trace the careers of women mathematicians of the early 20th century, many of whom made their way from Cambridge to Bryn Mawr College. She will also visit Bletchley Park, where women were employed during World War II as code-breakers for the Allied effort. This project is an offshoot of a consortium seminar held last year, presented by members of the math and history departments.
THE AGNES AND SOPHY DALLAS IRWIN FUND Established in 1916 by the Board of the Agnes and Sophy Dallas Irwin Fund, Maria Berger it’s awarded to teachers of women from Baldwin, Agnes Irwin, Shipley, and Springside. This fund aims to enrich a teacher’s life. Maria Berger enrolled in a Public Policy & Administrative Law class at Neumann University over the summer, helping her to Anne-Mette earn a master’s degree Hansell in Organizational & Strategic Leadership in 16 months. Anne-Mette Hansell traveled to our Danish exchange school, Ordrup Gymnasium, in Ordrup, a suburb of Copenhagen, Denmark, to watch her nephew and 244 young men and women graduate in June.
ANNE C. SHOEMAKER FUND Established in 1980 by the Board of Trustees, this fund includes grants to be used for personal enrichment or refreshment of self and spirit. This year’s awardees were Gretchen Boger, Lynn Cohen, and David Pulli.
Kathleen England
Becky Lewis
BALDWIN BENEFITS FUND Established in 1991 by the Parents’ Association, these awards are given for curriculum development or enhancements. Awardees included Rebecca Lewis, Jessica SpatzMcNeary and Elizabeth Strauss, Tina Yen, Gabrielle Daley, and the Upper School Grade Deans and Dean of Students: Kathy England, Fred Kountz, Shelley Lapinski, Meg Glascott-Birch, and Raphaelina Loke.
Jessica Spatz-McNeary
This award recognizes the contribution of a Shelley Lucia member of the faculty, staff or administration who has gone above and beyond his/her job description for the Laura benefit of the Baldwin Blankenship community. Both Laura Blankenship and Michele (Shelley) Lucia were presented with this award.
THE WILLIAM H. SIMON FACULTY ENRICHMENT AWARD IN SCIENCE AND THE HUMANITIES Established in 1997 by Michele and Eve Simon, this award provides a stipend to explore the integration of science and the humanities in research and teaching. This award was given to Laura Blankenship.
Liz Strauss
ROSAMOND CROSS ENDOWED TEACHING CHAIR
Tina Yen
THE BLAIR D. STAMBAUGH AWARD FOR STUDENT AND FACULTY ENRICHMENT Established in 1999 in honor of Blair D. Stambaugh’s 20th
Diane Senior
TRUSTEE RECOGNITION AWARD
FRIENDS OF RUTH FIESEL FUND Established in 1986, this award aims to enrich a teacher’s intellectual or cultural life. Kathleen England purchased Olympic materials for her Middle School Mini Week Olympic session.
anniversary at Baldwin, this award recognizes cooperation, ingenuity, and enrichment. It was presented to Diane Senior.
Brie Daley
Established in 1988 in honor of the fourth Olive Ledlie Head of School, this award is given every two years to a fulltime faculty member who made an outstanding contribution to his or her work, the Baldwin community, or the broader field of education. Olive Ledlie was presented with the second half of this award.
WINT ER 2015 E C H O E S
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CLOSINGTHOUGHTS Baldwin’s service-learning program is allowing students to meaningfully engage in local and global communities to effect positive change. Coordinator of Service Learning Stephanie Wujcik provides insight into Baldwin’s program.
Tell us about Baldwin’s service program.
interests and passions drive the
We are working to design a
program, which is supported
cohesive sequence for service at
and often coordinated by the
Baldwin, beginning with small,
Upper School Service League.
curriculum-based programs in
Grade IX students also have
the Lower School, moving
the unique opportunity to
through to large-scale,
participate in a research-based,
primarily student-driven
quarterly service-learning
projects in the Upper School.
course geared toward
The goal is to equip the girls
understanding the purpose
with the empathy,
and impact of service on local
effort to bring in more speakers
compassion, and skills to
and global communities.
and student presenters to
Why is service an integral part of a Baldwin girl’s education?
discuss the impact of student
Through designing and
actions on a community need.
implementing service projects,
resolve them.
What is Baldwin’s approach to service-learning? This program has greatly
In the Lower School, service
shifted in the last several years
projects are integrated directly
from one that sponsored a
How is service-learning incorporated into the curriculum?
into the classrooms. Each grade
handful of isolated projects, to
Slowly! Each year, I try to
researches, plans, and
one that aspires to
identify a handful of spots in
implements its own service
contextualize each and every
the academic curriculum in
allow our girls to foster the
project. In Middle School, each
service experience with
which we can plan a service-
capacity for critical thinking
grade focuses its activities
community education and
learning project. Students
and problem-solving.
around a grade-level’s
reflection. We have cut back on
receive academic context in
Additionally, service enables
particular theme for Service
some of the collection drives
the classroom and then apply
students to employ “soft skills”
Days, while also learning about
and bake sales in an effort to
their learning to develop
more frequently —
the different types of service —
create more educationally
solutions to a community
characteristics such as empathy,
direct, indirect, and
based service experiences.
need. This approach has been
compassion, and recognizing
research/advocacy.
Additionally, we are making an
particularly successful in Grade
and respecting the perspectives
VII, where we have developed
of those who are different from
By Upper School, student
identify community needs and implement solutions that can
Allie Rose ’19 and Alexandra Phelan ’19 work with Coordinator of Service Learning Stephanie Wujcik to develop educational modules to be used to teach Grade VII and Lower School students about girls’ education. 40
Middle School students Jennifer Liu ’20, Meghan Mahoney ’20, and Vivienne Evans ’20 work in the community garden of the SHARE Food Program.
students cultivate a wide array of practical skills that are useful in the classroom and in future careers. Overall, service experiences
a cohesive, yearlong service
them. Research shows that
curriculum through Social
these skills are a crucial part of
Studies and class meeting time.
youth development in a more
By making an effort to better
globalized world. Service can
integrate service into the
nurture in students a
curriculum, our girls have
tremendous capacity for
much richer academic
engaging in a diverse world,
experiences and can connect
and this ability will be crucial in
their learning to concrete local
an increasingly connected
and global issues.
international economy.
“The friends and connections I’ve made and the things I’ve learned at Baldwin have definitely stayed with me. From relationships with faculty and friends, to building a deeper bond with my daughter who is also a member of the Class of Red, connections made at Baldwin never fade. More than anything, Baldwin has helped my daughter and me to accomplish the things we truly wanted to achieve. We wouldn’t be where we are, think how we think, or stand up for what we believe in if it weren’t for Baldwin.The world needs more women like Baldwin women, and the only way to do that is to give back.” - Shawn Lacy ’71, Mother of Akela ’11
Our unprecedented success in our milestone anniversary year was due to the generosity of everyone in the Baldwin community.Thank you for helping us raise more than $4 million last year.With your help, we can make 2015 shine even brighter for our girls.
Make your gift today by returning the enclosed giving envelope or online at www.BaldwinSchool.org/Gift.
Nonprofit Organization U.S. Postage
PAID Permit No. 13 Conshohocken, PA
701 Montgomery Avenue Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
ALUMNAE/REUNION WEEKEND CELEBRATING THE CLASSES OF GREEN MAY 1-2, 2015
Friday, May 1: (Classes of Green)
Saturday, May 2: (All Classes are invited to attend)
• Classroom Visits and Lunch with the Class of 2015 • Alumnae Awards Presentation • Reunion celebration in The Residence • Reunion Class Gatherings Off-Campus
• Alex Wake ’05 Memorial Run/Walk • Boarders’ Breakfast • Spring Festival for the Entire Baldwin Community • The Ruth Hochberger ’68 Speaker Series