Connections Summer 2017
M A G A ZI NE OF THE EPI SC O PAL ACADEM Y
C E L E B R AT I N G T H E
CLASS of 2017
RETIRING FACULTY LEAVE LASTING LEGACIES
ALUMNI RETURN TO THE CLASSROOM
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E D I TO RIA L T E AM Connections, the magazine of The Episcopal Academy, is published three times per year. We encourage readers to submit feedback, stories, and photos from your days at Episcopal. Alumni can also submit personal and professional updates online at episcopalacademy.org/classnotes. The Episcopal Academy 1785 Bishop White Drive Newtown Square, PA 19073 Office of Communications 484.424.1478 mgodin@episcopalacademy.org Office of Alumni Programs 484.424.1779 bkonopka@episcopalacademy.org Editor-in-Chief: Michele Godin Contributing Editors: Courtney Brinkerhoff-Rau P ’16, ’19 Kate LaBrake Stephanie Ottone Nancy S. Taylor, Hon. Contributing Photographers: Michael Leslie Mark Tassoni Courtney Brinkerhoff-Rau P ’16, ’19 Maggie Mengel ’17 Josie Ferri Tomaino Ann Kraftson ’85 P ’19, ’23 Jen Maier P ’22, ’20 Design: Open Haus Studio Production: The Chambers Group
Graduates, their families, and teachers gathered on the Clark Campus Green immediately following Episcopal’s 232nd Commencement to celebrate.
CONTENTS
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30
34
Snapshots
Features
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EA’s New Chairman of the Board
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14
Retiring faculty and staff span 160 years of service
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6 Pliés & Pirouettes
Back in the Classroom Alumni return to campus to share expertise and wisdom
Meet Dr. Steven E. Copit ’80 P ’18 ’19
Celebrating Legacies
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Alumni Weekend Classes celebrating reunion years gather during Alumni Weekend
18 Honoring Mr. Hollinger 28 4 + 1 = 5
Departments 2 T.J.’s Take 8 By The Numbers 9 Around the Green 12 Faculty & Staff News
Onward & Upward
30 From the Sidelines
The Class of 2017 begins life beyond EA
42 Class Notes
34 From the Stage & Studio
64 The Last Word
T. J. ’ S TA K E
On Traditions at The Episcopal Academy
As I took my place on the altar following our procession into the Class of 1944 Chapel, I looked around, as the last few notes of Pomp and Circumstance played. Family and friends packed the pews and every inch of available standing room, squeezing into any nook or corner they could find. With the rest of their lives ahead of them, the Class of 2017 stood tall, the ladies in their crisp white dresses and the gentlemen in their pressed Episcopal blazers. On the front of the altar, students hoisted the flags and cross high and the organ’s booming blare began to fill the Chapel, as we prepared to sing the opening hymn and national anthem. I had chills thinking about how that same, single moment has been experienced by tens of thousands of Episcopal graduates, family members, and faculty throughout our 232 years. Traditions are a part of our fabric and foster a unique and unbreakable bond across many generations. Since our founding, we have remained steadfastly committed to educating the whole child in Mind, Body, and Spirit. And though our school has evolved over more than two centuries, our faculty continues to recognize the importance of guiding our students’ development beyond traditional curriculum. I cherish gathering as a community in Chapel, and I believe the consistent reflection and prayer allows us to grow and be the best people we can be. Regardless of individual faith traditions, Chapel offers us all a safe and inclusive space to explore our faith, to celebrate and to grieve together, to welcome diverse viewpoints, and to empower our students to lead our community. From our annual celebration of
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Lessons and Carols, to our remembrances of solemn moments in history, to our 8th graders presenting their faith papers, to the light-hearted Scrooge Chapel, this space allows us to further explore our own personal values and beliefs and simultaneously strengthen our community. There is also no better way to begin my day than in a Lower School Chapel surrounded by cheery faces, proudly sporting their striped sweaters, as they jubilantly sing This Little Light of Mine or Peace Like a River. This year, Father Tim Gavin chose some of these nostalgic hymns for our last few Upper School Chapels. It was touching to see our seniors’ faces light up upon recognizing the first few chords and recalling fond childhood memories, memories that I hope they treasure, as they continue to grow beyond Episcopal’s walls. Our tradition of service to others remains strong at Episcopal. From the Can Drive, to days of service, to our recent partnership with St. Marc’s School in Haiti, to service trips, our students gain valuable perspective, grow in character, and actively demonstrate The Stripes. Our student-run Community Service Board coordinates opportunities for all students to participate, and they regularly visit our community partners to help the elderly, tutor young students, and feed the needy. At the beginning of each school year, we begin with an inspiring opening speech from our Senior Teacher, one that reminds us of our mission and keeps our focus directly on our students. The tradition of the Senior Teacher address transitions to Mr. Mark Luff, Hon. this year after being dutifully served for many years by Mr. Chip Hollinger, Hon. Throughout the school year, our traditions continue. Our Junto alumni come back each year to help judge the MacBean Bowl, and the Scholium, which originally began as a literary magazine before taking on its current newspaper format in 1932, is still published by our committed student editors. Many classes have also formed their own traditions over the years. Later in this issue, you will read a bit about our 3rd grade’s newest tradition of becoming pen pals with
our 50th reunion class members in order to learn more about what life was like at Episcopal when our alumni were here. The Aurora and Vesper intra-mural teams, which were named based on a suggestion by then student George Boyd (Class of 1909), continue to compete. And of course, our rivalries with other local schools are as strong and spirited today, as they were decades ago. There is no greater thrill than waving the blue and white flag and cheering on our studentathletes during EA-Haverford-AIS Weekend. Domino Club continues to deliver stellar, award-winning theatrical performances of classics old and new such as The Sound of Music, Hairspray, and Chicago. In the early days, performances were lavish, black-tie events, so I may need to surprise our students and break out my tux for our next opening night! And, for nearly three decades we have celebrated excellence in visual arts and music through our Dora Khayatt awards, established in memory of the artist and wife of the late John Plant, former Classics Department Chair. As we prepare to enter our 10th year in Newtown Square, I cherish some of the traditions that continue to enliven our campus. My favorites are those that bring our entire PreK-12 community together like our all-school pep rally, ArtsFest, and the Spirit Week bonfire. This past year, our students coordinated the inaugural, school-wide DancEAthon to raise funds for a cause close to their hearts, a tradition that I am sure will continue for many years. As our society changes and our school evolves, it is comforting to me that these and many other traditions mark our year and remind us of our shared history. I invite you to share stories about your favorite traditions. We would love to feature some of them in the future. Feel free to send them to me at memorylane@episcopalacademy.org. May our ardor never cool,
T.J. Summer 2017
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EA’s New Chairman of the Board On July 1, Dr. Steven E. Copit ’80 P ’18 ’19 assumed the role of Chairman of The Episcopal Academy Board of Trustees. The Chief of Plastic Surgery at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Steve has served in key leadership roles as a member of EA’s Board for the past nine years.
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Dr. Steve Copit first arrived at Episcopal in the 5th grade and was an extremely active student. He participated in the glee club, Junto, and community service, worked on the Tabula and Scholium, and served as captain of the varsity tennis team his senior year. After Episcopal, Steve went on to earn a bachelor’s degree, magna cum laude, in economics from Duke University. He earned his medical degree from Jefferson Medical College, where he met his wife, Dr. Debra Somers Copit, and completed his residency in general surgery at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. He then went on to complete his residency in plastic surgery at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. After completing their residencies, Steve and Debbi moved back to Philadelphia, were married, and had two sons, Scott ’18 and Robert ’19, who are currently enrolled at Episcopal. A trustee for the past nine years, Steve was a member of the financial aid, governance, and development committees and served on the Strategic Plan Religious Task Force. Most recently, he chaired the governance committee for three years, and he and Debbi co-chaired The Episcopal Fund for two years. “Steve is a man of great integrity and humility who has already made many vital contributions to our school and community,” shared Greville Haslam Head of School Dr. T.J. Locke. “As he prepares to assume this important leadership role, I know that Steve’s passion for Episcopal and his unique perspective as both an alumnus and current parent will be invaluable.” Steve succeeds Edward H. Vick, Jr. ’62, whose service on the Board spans a total of 15 years, including his chairmanship over the last three. During his tenure, Ed played a vital role in helping raise the funds to purchase our land here in Newtown Square and in the move to our current campus. He was one of the driving forces behind the 2010 Strategic Plan and worked tirelessly to develop a Mission Statement that embodies our values and guides our important work as educators.
As the former CEO and Chairman of iconic Madison Avenue advertising agency Young & Rubicam, Ed challenged us to think boldly about our communications strategy. While serving as Chair, he created a Task Force focused on evaluating our brand, enhancing our marketing approach, and improving communications with all of our constituents. “Ed is the ultimate storyteller and helped us find new ways to talk about the magic that takes place at Episcopal,” explained Dr. Locke. “I will be forever thankful for his extraordinary mentorship and guidance. His support and encouragement helped me successfully navigate my first few years at Episcopal.” The Episcopal Academy also thanks Bill Richards ’63, Jay Shah, David Reape ’80, Geoff Worden ’57, Peri Higgins, and Rick Northrop ’70, as they retire from the Board. Collectively, this group has dedicated 54 years of service and commitment to Episcopal.
The Edward H. Vick, Jr. ’62 Veterans Day Chapel In honor of his many years of dedicated service to EA and in recognition of his passionate advocacy for veterans affairs and service to our country, EA’s annual Chapel program honoring our veterans will officially be known as The Edward H. Vick, Jr. ’62 Veterans Day Chapel. “We are so honored to attach Ed’s name to this prominent and important annual event and feel it marries his two passions—Episcopal and veterans affairs—so beautifully,” said Dr. T.J. Locke. A formal plaque reflecting this honor and listing speakers moving forward will hang in Veterans Hall in the Campus Center. Summer 2017
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PLIÉS & PIROUETTES
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To the delight of students, faculty, and staff, The Pennsylvania Ballet kicked off ArtsFest with an all-school performance. Made possible through the generosity of The Christian Humann Foundation, students watched in awe as dancers performed a mixed repertory, showcasing both classical and modern ballets. “It was awesome!” said 2nd grader Collin Romanczuk. “They must practice a lot to get so strong!” said 2nd grader Harper Jameson. PA Ballet choreographers also conducted a master class with EA dance students. “Students ranging from beginner to advanced were able to smile their way through the lesson, all the while being challenged to perfect their body placement, strength, speed, and rhythm,” said Dance Director Cara Lavallee.
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By the Numbers
T HE EPIS C OPA L ACA DEMY C LA S S OF 2017
The Class of 2017 was remarkable in many ways. This diverse group of scholars, musicians, athletes, artists, and friends committed their time to studies, service, and so much more. Here is more about our newest alumni and some of the accomplishments they achieved during their time in Upper School.
40 hometowns
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TOP: • Newtown Square • West Chester • Berwyn • Media
graduates
66 girls
68 boys
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315
AP Scholars
AP tests taken by 123 students
FARTHEST: • Allentown • Quakertown • Hockessin (DE)
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467
National Merit Semi-Finalists
varsity letters earned
1 student obtained a
800 hours
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of community service
77 colleges/universities in 24 states and 4 countries
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students are attending college abroad
42 will play sports at the college level
Inter-Ac Championships
$3.93 million in merit scholarships earned
AROUND THE GREEN
Lower School
Freedom Museum Wows Visitors
Coding in the Classroom The technology team partnered with teachers to hold a “Period of Code” when all classes weaved coding-specific activities and projects into their day. “Coding is a way of thinking and the language of digital machines. As our civilization becomes more advanced with technology, students will need to be fluent in the language of coding,” explained Lower School Technology Coach Christian Cloud. “As today’s parents created dioramas for their classroom projects, our students will be writing programs for theirs. Most facets of future life, even the routine and mundane, will involve some type of coding.” Students embraced the experience and learned that coding can be fun—especially in music, physical education, and science classes.
Students in the 1st grade were delighted to receive their Hymnals during a special Chapel presentation this spring.
Fourth grade students proudly displayed their projects at this year’s Freedom Museum. Students spent several months working on in-depth research projects focused on events in history that led to freedom. Study centered around Ancient Greece, the American Revolution, the Underground Railroad, and World War II. Exhibit highlights included a student-made freedom quilt, cross-stitched samplers, a “victory garden,” Greek columns, flags, and written reports with reflections on what it means to be free.
3rd Graders Celebrate Their Ancestry Relatives from around the world stopped by campus in May to share some of their life experiences. As part of the annual 3rd grade International Festival, students chose an ancestor, researched their life, and then made life-like puppets for their presentations. Students shared other details via exhibits and made authentic dishes from their ancestors’ countries of origin.
Aurora/Vesper Day was a fun-filled afternoon with a pep rally, relay races, a handstand contest, 50-yard dash, and a tug-of-war. This year the Auroras beat the Vespers with a final score of 498-439!
5th graders Kaleigh and Nicholas Criville took charge as Heads of School for a day. After calling for a dress down day to promote breast cancer awareness, they helped oversee daily campus operations and met with administrators. Here, they help Dr. T.J. Locke and Communications Director Michele Godin plan stories for Connections.
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AROUND THE GREEN
Middle School
Ethics, Transnational Crime, and Trade Top Agenda at Model UN Conference Eight students spent part of their spring break attending the International Model United Nations Middle School Conference in New York. Participants were assigned a topic and a committee to prepare for the conference. Eighth grader Winston Bickhardt focused on Transnational Organized Crime and its impact on international security. “The highlight of the trip was when we all came to our final resolutions and we realized everything would work out. The hard work really did pay off,” shared Winston.
Relay Team Sprints to Gold at Penn Relays The Middle School Girls’ 4x100m Relay Team won gold in the Private and Charter Schools division at the 123rd Penn Relays. Barely making the start due to unexpected traffic and train delays, the team of Madison Hanssens ‘21, Laila Williamson ‘21, Jill McEntee ‘21, and Madi Belo ‘21 crossed the finish line with their best time of the season (52.58). The students pinned on their race numbers as the R-5 pulled into 30th Street Station. They then dashed off the train and sprinted to Franklin Field. “We arrived at the paddock area as they were making the final call for our event. We barreled through the security line to make it to the track, threw on spikes, and made it,” explained Coach Matt Newcomb, Hon. “The whirlwind to get them on the track paid off!”
Students spent the second trimester preparing for the conference with Middle School English and history teacher Susan Cannon, Hon. “I am proud of the way these students watched out for each other, supported each other, and stepped out of their comfort zones to fully inhabit their roles as diplomats from Sri Lanka on their various committees,” said Mrs. Cannon.
STEM Workshop Introduces Students to Career Options Ten 7th grade students attended Penn State Brandywine’s STEM Option Program where they participated in workshops to learn about careers in STEM disciplines. “The girls completed work in areas of biology, computer programming, chemistry, mathematics, and astronomy,” explained Middle School science teacher Celeste Sweeney. “Women who have a STEM career in the particular topic led each program. “Six years ago, the Middle School science department made an important and crucial decision to have all Middle School students complete a STEM project,” said science teacher Kristen Powell, Hon. “This decision was made in order to support key scientific skills that are fundamental for all science students. Skills such as analyzing small parts of systems, seeing relationships, noticing details in content, and applying a specific process are practiced throughout the STEM curriculum.”
6th Graders Changing the World
Members of Student Council and Chapel Council attended the Middle School Diversity Conference held at Germantown Academy.
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The annual Think-Care-Act-Projects have become a rite of passage for 6th graders. Each spring students work in teams to research and develop an action plan for an issue they want to help improve locally, nationally, and even internationally. This year’s projects included helping the elderly and homeless, tree planting, animal rescue, urban gardening, and fighting cancer. “Kids can change the world in small doses,” commented one 6th grader. “Finally, we are making history ourselves.”
EA Named Melmark Community Partner of the Year EA is the recipient of this year’s Melmark Community Partner of the Year award. Music, drama, and service brought the two schools together. Melmark’s handbell choir, the Joybells, wowed EA students during a special Chapel performance. Throughout the school year, a group of EA seniors spent their annual day of service volunteering with residents, and football fans at Melmark stopped by an EA game to cheer on the Churchmen. Theater and Dance Department Chair Dan Clay, Hon. and Music Chair Jim Erwin were instrumental in establishing the EA-Melmark partnership. This year, Community Outreach Coordinator Becky Brinks and Head Chaplain Tim Gavin expanded the relationship to include community service. “This award symbolizes our mutual support and respect for each other,” said Father Tim Gavin, Hon. “It also points to both schools’ willingness to make the stranger our neighbor. EA is very proud to be the recipient of this wonderful honor.”
Students Skype with Gen. Michael Hayden Students had the unique opportunity to hear first-hand from General Michael Hayden, the former director of both the CIA and NSA. Students in Max Kelly’s ‘06 U.S. National Security class connected with General Hayden via Skype and peppered him with questions about North Korea, Syria, and President Trump’s foreign policy. Mr. Kelly and EA Trustee Bill Richards ‘63 set up the surprise conversation. The Upper School elective focuses on national security issues relevant to terrorism and counter-terrorism.
Conner Delaney ’17 and Lizzie King ’17 (pictured with Form Dean Sam Willis, Hon.) were recipients of the Rep. Patrick Meehan Good Citizenship Award.
AROUND THE GREEN
Upper School Free College Tuition and Required Foreign Language Classes Dominate MacBean Bowl Debate Schuyler Kresge ‘18 and Abhay Malik ‘17 are the winners of this year’s MacBean Bowl. The topics for the first two rounds of debate included free public college tuition and the abolition of the Electoral College. The initial group of eight debate teams was eventually narrowed down to two. In the final round, Kresge and Malik successfully argued that foreign language classes should be mandatory in college. Junto Board alumni and past MacBean Bowl winners returned to campus to serve as judges for the annual spring competition.
Record Results for Students at State Science Competition EA’s chapter of the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science had a record year at this year’s State Competition where more than 4,000 top students competed. Fourteen EA students presented their research to panels of PJAS state judges, and all earned first and second place awards in their respective categories. Charlotte Weismann ‘18 earned a rare PJAS Student Talent Search Award, which is accompanied by a four-year, partial scholarship to Penn State University. “I am extremely proud. The competition was tough, and our students were able to shine and this was clearly shown in their competition results,” said Upper School science teacher Kelley Bethoney, Ph.D. “Our program has grown in leaps and bounds over the recent years, and it was so wonderful to see all the hard work these students did over the course of the year really pay off!” Summer 2017
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Faculty & Staff News
Educators Take on Leadership Roles Alicia Newman Wins Water Polo Coaching Award Girls’ water polo coach and Kindergarten teacher Alicia Newman has won USA Water Polo’s Distinguished Coaching award after her team won the prestigious Eastern High School Water Polo Championship and ended the season with a 19-1 record. “I enjoy watching my athletes set goals and achieve them and overcome obstacles. Through coaching, I’m able to help them develop resiliency, selflessness, and 21st century skills that will help them to be successful in anything they do,” says Newman.
Middle School English teacher Matt Newcomb, Hon. will begin this academic year as Assistant Head of Middle School after serving EA for 10 years. His appointment follows the retirement of long-time Middle School Assistant Head Chip Hollinger, Hon. Mike Letts, Hon. will serve as Interim Head of Upper School while the search for a permanent administrator begins. Letts has served in many capacities during his 13 years at EA, including as Form Dean, English teacher, soccer coach, Communications Director, and Director of the Center for Growth and Innovation.
Music in Action This March, Middle and Upper School Orchestra Director James Finegan performed in the Delaware Symphony Orchestra’s Music, Noise, and Silence Concert. EA’s fourth and fifth graders attended the concert to support their teacher and experience a live orchestra.
Konopkas Receive Rowing Honors EA fixtures Bruce and Molly Konopka have received honors in the rowing community this spring. Director of Alumni Programs Bruce Konopka, Hon. was inducted into the University of Pennsylvania Athletic Hall of Fame on May 6. A fouryear lightweight rower at Penn, Bruce helped lead Penn’s lightweight boat to its first-ever win at Eastern Sprints. He is the first lightweight rower to be inducted into Penn’s Athletic Hall of Fame. Head Rowing Coach and Classics teacher Molly Konopka, Hon. received the 2017 Joseph F. Brennan Memorial Coach’s Award during a May 20 ceremony at the Stotesbury Regatta. This lifetime achievement award was created to honor coaches in the Philadelphia Scholastic Rowing Association who have dedicated themselves to the sport of rowing. 12
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An experienced violinist, James later spent part of his summer performing with the Colorado Music Festival in Boulder.
SPOTLIGHT:
Steve Kerwin As part of their ongoing series, local radio hosts Preston and Steve (93.3 WMMR) asked Episcopal students to vote for their coolest teacher this spring. The winner was Steve Kerwin, who has taught physics and oceanography at EA since 2013. We sat down with Mr. Kerwin to ask him about the coolest parts of his job.
What’s the coolest thing about EA? What makes a cool teacher? It’s love of what you do, and showing it every day. Being a cool teacher means trying to make your subject area relatable and interesting for the students you love to teach. My coolest teacher was my college physics professor who used movie clips to demonstrate physics concepts. He made every lesson engaging and entertaining. I strive to do that same thing every day. What’s the coolest lesson you teach? While many lessons are super visual and interactive, the one that students report is most impactful is about quantum physics. I read an excerpt from Neil de Grasse Tyson’s Death by Black Hole and the students’ faces light up as they wrap their heads around the mind-blowing principles we discuss. It demonstrates what I always tell my students: I love physics because I find that science reality is often stranger than science fiction.
EA Recommends
The people. When I found out that I won the Coolest Teacher contest, I was humbled because there are so many deserving educators here who love what they do and are so much more than teachers. Also, the kids are thankful, respectful, and genuinely really good people. What other cool things are you involved in? I work with students in the Global Youth Leadership Institute, our Chapel Rock video production group, our unofficial Ukulele Club, and through coaching Middle School Water Polo. I also got really heavily into service last year, and I take students to serve meals at University City Hospitality Coalition every week. What’s the least cool thing about you? Probably everything! I’m a total nerd. But, I think being a nerd means that you are passionate about the things you love and you don’t worry about what others think of it, so who cares about being cool?
Summer reading isn’t only for students. Over the break, the entire EA faculty and staff are reading Blindspot: Hidden Biases of Good People. By Mahzarin Banaji and Anthony Greenwald.
Blindspot reveals hidden biases through scientific testing. By gaining awareness of hidden biases, readers can learn to adapt behavior, be fairer, and understand their own minds. Faculty will have the opportunity to hear from Blindspot author Mahzarin Banaji during her keynote address at this October’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Conference administered by the Multicultural Resource Center at the Association of Delaware Valley Independent Schools (MCRC@ADVIS). Summer 2017
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Celebrating Legacies R E TI R E E S S PA N OV E R 16 0 Y EA RS OF S ERV ICE
Middle School. He began the Model UN Club and led the World Affairs Club and the Chess Club. In addition to being the Middle School History Department Chair for more than a decade, he also served as our school’s unofficial historian. Since his early days, students and faculty have been inspired by his kindness, mentorship, and guidance.
Chip Hollinger, Hon. In 1969, Jim Quinn, EA’s 8th Head of School, called a young man named Chip Hollinger to offer him a teaching position. Over the next 48 years, Chip would prove himself as not only an incredible educator, but also an advisor, coach, unofficial historian, and mentor. In addition to teaching English, history, and several electives, Chip has served as Faculty Marshal and Assistant Head of
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According to Head of Middle School Steve Morris, Hon., Chip is one of the most student-centered teachers he has ever known. “Chip has done this for 48 years and still comes in each morning with the same level of enthusiasm, energy, and connectedness to students that he had on his first day. He unfailingly creates great experiences for kids every day.” While retirement was a tough decision, Chip is looking forward to having more time to spend with his family. Chip’s wife, Meg, dedicated 23 years to Episcopal before retiring in 2012, and their three sons attended Episcopal.
Maude Kent, Hon. Following 36 years of dedicated service to Episcopal, Maude Kent retired in June. It is a bittersweet milestone for Maude considering the impact Episcopal has had on her life. It was at this school that she met her husband, Tim Kent, Hon., Classics teacher and tennis coach. Their son attended Episcopal for a short time and their daughter was a virtual “lifer.” When she speaks about her time at EA,
Celebrating Legacies
Maude mentions countless colleagues and mentors and her gratitude for their inspiration, guidance, and friendship. For Maude, this has truly been home for more than three decades.
A man of great integrity, Andy demonstrated the Stripes at all times. He truly served as a role model for all throughout his tenure.
Maude has taken on many roles at Episcopal. When she first arrived, Maude taught all subjects in 4th grade and then transitioned to teaching 6th grade math and history. She later served as Dean of Faculty and most recently taught 7th and 8th grade math. She has also had a great impact on student-athletes while coaching field hockey, lacrosse, and basketball. Maude is credited with starting the girls’ tennis team, helping it grow into a varsity program, and winning the first of its many Inter-Ac championships.
Nancy Haas, Hon. Nancy Haas began her EA career at our Merion campus 16 years ago and has remained in the 4th grade ever since. A born teacher, Nancy put her students above all else and offered them a welcoming environment where they were both challenged and nurtured. She was highly collaborative, professional, and well respected by her peers.
Andy Hess, Hon. Throughout his 35 years at EA, Andy Hess has been instrumental to many programs. Andy taught history in the Upper School, served as Director of International Programs, and was an active member of Diversity Council. In leading the Study Abroad and Student Exchange programs, he identified and coordinated with host families here and abroad so that EA students could benefit from exchange opportunities. Andy previously served as Head of Upper School for seven years. Known for his student-centered philosophy, Andy helped students explore their passion for business through his JTerm course, Financial Literacy, and through programs like Future Business Leaders of America and the Stock Market Game. He often supported students from the sidelines, spending afternoons at the tennis courts, near the field hockey turf, alongside the soccer field, or in the pool area.
Nancy has always embraced development and growth in an effort to continually enhance her students’ experiences. Recently, she participated in professional development focused on Restorative Practices and was so inspired that she brought the teachings to campus by hosting in-service sessions for her EA colleagues. Nancy looks forward to spending more time with her family.
Kathy McCullough, Hon. For 14 years Kathy McCullough supported Episcopal’s faculty, staff, and business partners.
Beginning her EA career as the School Office Manager at the Devon Campus, Kathy took on many roles, including coordinating bus transportation, managing state book purchases and logistics, and processing payables. After the move to Newtown Square, Kathy transitioned to the Business Office as the Accounts Payable Coordinator. Since that time, Kathy has diligently served in this role, managing all outgoing payables, vehicle registrations, and requests for insurance certificates. Kathy’s commitment to ensuring timely payments has helped Episcopal maintain strong relationships with the many outside groups who help fulfill the school’s mission. Kathy plans to spend more time with her family, especially her two young grandchildren.
Mary Gallagher, Hon. The Episcopal Academy Athletics Office has benefited from Mary Gallagher’s attention to detail and inclusive spirit for 12 years. As Athletics Coordinator, Mary infused structure into the program and served as a go-toresource for countless coaches, officials, colleagues, parents, and students. When combined with her time at Penn Charter, Mary has dedicated more than three decades of her life to independent schools. Many of Mary’s colleagues describe her as a team player who is always willing to jump in and lend a hand, a dedicated colleague with a strong work ethic, and a good friend who they could always rely upon. Mary is looking forward to traveling with her husband Bill (who retired from EA two years ago) and to spending more time with her grandchildren. Summer 2017
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Above & Beyond FACU LT Y A N D S TA F F HONORED FOR DEDICAT ION TO EA
Honorary alumni celebrating 10 years at EA
Honorary Alumni
As is tradition, faculty and staff gathered
Celebrating 10 years at EA
Celebrating 15 years at EA
on the evening before Commencement
Douglas Borgerson
Laurie Finnical
to celebrate their shared commitment to
Dan Clay
Melodie Kosman
Hilary Hutchison
Kim Piersall
Holly Johnston
Betsy Welch
Episcopal’s students and mission. Colleagues shared memories, commemorated the
Carol Leach
legacies of retiring friends, and applauded
Rob Maier
Celebrating 20 years at EA
the efforts of faculty award recipients.
Bryan McDermott
Tim Logan
Angela Miklavcic
Edward Silvi
David Sigel Perry Zanki
Celebrating 25 years at EA Linda Hassett Naomi Knecht Steve Muir Bernard Miller
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Hirtle Innovation Prize
2017 Winner: Susan Cannon, Hon. Established in 2012 by the Hirtle family, this award recognizes a faculty member or group of faculty who exemplify best practices in innovating teaching and who is/are driven to create more innovative curricula and programming.
Brian Edward Breskman ’06 Memorial Award
2017 Winners: Ashley O’Connor and Max Kelly ’06 Established in 2007 in memory of Brian Edward Breskman ’06, this fund pays tribute to the many outstanding teachers, coaches, and mentors at EA. It is presented each year to one or more promising members of the faculty who have demonstrated excellence.
Class of 1940 Award
2017 Winners: Kempley Bryant, Hon. and Christele Furey This award honors teachers who have devoted their lives to the school and who have, in the opinion of their colleagues, made a significant impact on EA students and who stimulated student interest in academics, athletics, and activities.
Bishop William White Award
2017 Winner: Chip Hollinger, Hon. This award is presented to “an effective and dedicated member of the faculty whose influence on the education and growth of students extends beyond the classroom subject” and who has been a member of the faculty for a minimum of three years.
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HONORING MR. HOLLINGER Students, faculty, and staff celebrated Mr. Charles “Chip” Hollinger’s retirement and honored his 48 years of dedication to EA. The Middle School gathered for a special tree dedication. The tree sits next to the tree that was dedicated to Mr. Hollinger’s wife, Meg Hollinger, Hon., when she retired from EA in 2012. Both trees were gifted by Mr. & Mrs. James E. Minnick P ‘88 ‘03 ‘05 ‘12. An Empacher 8 racing shell, the “Respect - Charles H. Hollinger, II,” was christened and dedicated on the banks of the Schuylkill River in Mr. Hollinger’s honor. “It was an unbelievable honor to have our own awardwinning ‘boys in the boat’ consider me for this,” said Mr. Hollinger. “It was all the more memorable of a day because I got to share this privilege with my family.”
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Summer 2017
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Onward & Upward Class of 2017 begins life beyond EA by K ATE L AB RAKE
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Does everyone know where they’re going?” Class of 2017 Form Dean Sam Willis called out to the blur of seniors brushing past him after getting their official class photo taken. They knew exactly where they were going. It was a moment they had anticipated since their very first days at Episcopal —rushing excitedly to take their place in the line that would lead to Commencement. In a few short hours, in the presence of family and friends, these 134 seniors would become the newest alumni of The Episcopal Academy.
It is this support system that generations of graduates have relied upon as they begin their careers and confronted life’s many changes. And according to valedictorian Corinne Zanolli, it is Episcopal’s teachings that empower graduates to enact changes to benefit others.
But where these students are going only began with this procession. After Commencement, they will continue onward to a vast diversity of paths: Some will play their favorite sport in college while others will excel in the arts. While some study close to home, others will attend schools abroad. From Yale to St. Andrews, from international business to photography, our seniors are embarking on their own life’s adventures.
“Change requires something from us—strength, resiliency, courage,” Zanolli explained to the families and friends in the audience. “But mostly it requires the desire to risk, to take a chance, to ignore the butterflies in our stomachs and doubts in our minds and to be willing to withstand failure in order to succeed at creating a better world—one with compassion, one with understanding, one that embraces humanity.
Wherever they go, they have all started their journeys at The Episcopal Academy. And they began them together.
“That is the legacy EA has given us and the challenge for our class,” she continued. “To use every part of our being – mind, body and spirit – to be something, to do something, to become something that changes the world for the better.”
“During your good times, the friends, family, and faculty here have always been the first ones to jump up and cheer the loudest for you. During your bad times, they have always been the first to comfort you, and to pull you back up on your feet to try again, whether or not you liked it,” said salutatorian Cathy Wang in her Commencement
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address, smiling to the families and friends who packed the Class of 1944 Chapel. “Sitting here is a clear reflection of the amazing support system that has surrounded us throughout our time at EA.”
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After witnessing the seniors’ dedication to service, academics, and so much more over their time at EA, we have full confidence that the Class of 2017 will do just that.
Class of 2017 Awards STUDENTS WERE CELEBRATED FOR THEIR SPIRIT, SERVICE, AND ACHIEVEMENTS DURING THE 232 ND COMMENCEMENT EXERCISES.
The Sportsmanship Cup Madison O’Reilly
Alumni Prize in Mathematics Abhay Malik
The James L. Crawford, Jr. Sportsmanship Cup Kyle Virbitsky
Alumni Prize in French Elizabeth King
The Vincent R. Michael Memorial Prize Colton Johnson The Episcopal Academy Art Prize Sydney Donaldson Elizabeth King The Stephen Hopkins Kalbach ’72 Prize Audrey Lee The Erwin W. Drexel Prize Christopher Rushton The Francis L. Jackson, Jr. Prize Alexa D’Ambrosio Alumni Prize in English Ashley Lowber
Alumni Prize in Latin Alexis Lowber The Dorothy and Alan Hume ’44 Scientia Medal Felicia Zhu
The Class of 1966 Curtis R. York Memorial Music Prize Michael Wilkinson (Vocal) Alex Eringis (Instrumental) Felicia Zhu (Instrumental) The James H. McK. Quinn Prize Helena Bryant Kelly Flynn Award for the Highest Scholarship Nicolas Christianson
The E. Lance Cave Award Shreya Dalal
The Jefferson Shiel Prize Nathan Emrick
The Karen and Nikos Pharasles Greek Prize Colson Andrews
The William H. Ortlepp Memorial Prize Sarah Keffer
The William Jonathan Davis, Jr. Memorial Prize Rachel Yackel
The James B. Markoe Memorial Award Alexa D’Ambrosio
The Class of 1890 Prize Elizabeth Giordano
The Class of 1877 Award Matthew Freese
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BACK IN THE
CLASSROOM
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Connections
ALUMNI RETURN TO CAMPUS TO SHARE EXPERTISE, ADVICE, AND WISDOM WITH STUDENTS by C o u r t n e y B r in k e r h o f f - R au P ’1 6 ’1 9
Throughout the school year, it is not unusual to find Episcopal alumni strolling along the Clark Campus Green or cheering on their favorite sports team from the sidelines. According to many alumni, visiting campus and interacting with today’s students helps them feel more connected to their alma mater and give back to the place that helped shape who they are today. “We are thrilled when our alumni return to campus and hope that many more will consider coming back to work with our students,” explained Greville Haslam Head of School Dr. T.J. Locke. “The wisdom they impart helps our students further appreciate our rich traditions, learn about new things, and visualize themselves as successful alumni one day.” This past school year, alumni spanning many decades visited classrooms, offered up inspirational Chapel Talks, participated in Gallery exhibits, partnered with JTerm teachers to create unique experiences for students, and more.
FOLLOWING THE VOYAGE After Charlie Malone ’16 returned from his Maritime Voyage with the Massachusetts Maritime Academy, one of his first stops was to the 4th grade classroom of Mr. Jeremy Hark, Hon. The Lower School students first met Midshipman 4th Class Malone “virtually” when they began participating in the Mass. Maritime Academy’s online Follow The Voyage Program. Charlie and 700 fellow cadets left in early-January on Sea Term, a six-week term at sea onboard the TS Kennedy. “He made it sound like something we could do one day. It also seems like he made the right choice because he seemed so happy,” said Elizabeth Hug ’25. “I really liked his uniform. It was very formal, and I liked how he tucked and folded his hat into his belt,” observed Dylan Lorello ’25. Malone explained, “As a freshman, I spent half of the cruise on the engineering side and half on the deck side.” After leaving their base in Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts, the crew made port calls in Aruba, Barbados, St. Thomas, and Fort Lauderdale. Malone learned about vessel security, meteorology piloting, firefighting, and various rope and knot skills. “It was great to have Charlie visit the class. Since we have been following his voyage, it was great for the students to see him in person and hear about his experience,” shared Mr. Hark.
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SHARING STORIES For nearly a decade, Bill Rapp ’56 has returned to Lower School once a month to read stories to students in Kindergarten. During a recent visit, Mr. Rapp read about Australia. “I try to get them to learn something. I like to make it light and educational,” said Rapp. “I think it’s important for students to have contact with EA alumni. I could be a grandparent or great grandparent to these students. It’s fun for me too!” Mr. Rapp was a “lifer” at EA. With a chuckle he observed, “Kindergarten was certainly different in 1938.”
A GLIMPSE AT FUTURE CAREERS Alumni participation in Upper School’s annual January Term, known fondly as JTerm, continues to grow and enhance the student experience. The two-week, immersive, experiential courses that students take often introduce them to new passions and potential future career paths they had not previously considered. During this year’s new course where students organized EA’s first DancEAthon, the class turned to Penn State THON experts James Costalas ’13 and Robyn Farrell ’13. With help from Costalas and Farrell, students planned and executed a successful school-wide dance marathon and raised more than $48,000 for the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Students in EA’s Sacred Spaces course travel around the Philadelphia region to study sacred spaces and memorials from many religious traditions. Students then work to design and construct a scale model of a new memorial space at our school, using architectural drafting and modeling techniques to bring the project to life. Each year, Sam Olshin ’78, principal at Atkin Olshin Schade Architects, joins the class to share his expertise, guide students, and to evaluate the final models. This year’s Strings & Things class welcomed singer-songwriters Chris Paterno ’11 and Kathryn Wilson ’16 to their classroom. In the course students learn about different guitar styles and how guitars are constructed before they begin building their own guitars. Paterno and Wilson performed and helped teach the students different guitar techniques. ABC News reporter John Morris ’88 visited the Journalist’s Lens class this year to share more about his life as a journalist. During this class, students learned about the history of journalism and the basics of newswriting before traversing the JTerm halls to uncover poignant stories for their JTerm Times newspaper.
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BACK IN THE CLASSROOM
INSPIRING TOMORROW’S CHANGEMAKERS Episcopal alumna Mindy Menkowitz Scheier ‘89 introduced the term “differently-abled” to EA students during her address in Chapel in March. Scheier is the founder of Runway of Dreams, a non-profit that works with the fashion industry to make adaptive clothing for children with disabilities. After graduation, Scheier pursued her dream to be a fashion designer. “At that stage of your life, you think everything is going beautifully and perfectly and suddenly a curveball is sent your way.” Her middle child Oliver was born with a rare form of Muscular Dystrophy. Scheier told EA students, “You have choices. I could curl up in my bed everyday devastated that this happened to our family, or I could say they are the cards that we are dealt and we are going to do something about it.” She had her “a-ha moment” when then eight-year-old Oliver told her he wanted “to wear what everyone else was wearing, jeans.” Buttons and zippers were a challenge, so sweatpants were his fashion mainstay. Jeans did not fit over his leg braces. After researching adaptive clothing options, Scheier says she was horrified. “There was no way I was dressing my kid in anything I saw,” she explained. After a year of exhaustive research, she launched Runway of Dreams. Her goal is to make a change in the fashion industry and in the world. “No matter what happens in your life, no matter what detours that you take, you can make a difference, and you can make a change. It’s up to you. Hopefully, I am living proof that it can absolutely happen,” shared Scheier. “I am honored to say my roots started right here at Episcopal.”
NETWORKING OVER LUNCH Rex Gary ‘73 and FJ Leto ‘04 discussed their career paths and answered student questions during the annual spring career networking lunch. Leto, founder of Juice Dr., discussed the pros and cons of being an entrepreneur and making a career in the health and wellness industry. Gary spoke about his experience co-founding Turner-Gary Sports in 1991. The company specializes in representing professional baseball players. He also represents professional hockey players in NHL salary arbitration as Counsel to the National Hockey League Players Association.
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO GET MORE INVOLVED IN THE CLASSROOM AND SHARE YOUR EXPERTISE WITH OUR CURRENT STUDENTS, CONTACT BRUCE KONOPKA, DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI PROGRAMS. OUR STUDENTS WOULD LOVE TO MEET YOU!
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4+1=5
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This summer marks the fifth year of Horizons at EA. The program has grown to include 90 students in Kindergarten through 5th grades. Students from partner schools Frederick Douglass Master Charter School and Ardmore Avenue Elementary School spend six weeks on EA’s campus working with teachers and student volunteers. The core program includes: reading, math, art, music, technology instruction, and swimming. The goal of the Horizons program is to close the achievement gap and prevent the so-called summer slide. Research indicates that if a student is behind in reading by 3rd grade, the gap continues to grow, and they can never catch up to their peers. Horizons students return for the six-week summer enrichment program each year through the 8th grade.
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FROM THE SIDELINES
Spring 2017 Baseball 11-12 EA baseball represented the school with pride and effort as the team played one of the most challenging schedules in the area. Hustle, sportsmanship, and a team-first mentality enabled the players to enjoy much success. With highlight victories over ranked opponents like Malvern Prep, The Haverford School, Archbishop Carroll, Perkiomen School, Father Judge, St. Joe’s Prep, and Holy Ghost Prep, the team showed that it can hold its own against anyone. While the five members of the senior class will be missed, the future looks bright for EA baseball as the team continues to build toward the goals of an Inter-Ac championship and PAISAA state title.
Girls’ & Boys’ Crew Being out on the river in March in wind and rain really tests determination and love of EA rowing! A great group of students (and parents) endured the elements for not only one year, but for four. It is due to this resilience that the team had an exceptional spring season. The Boys’ Varsity Eight+ stunned the competition at the Philadelphia City Championships with a huge 1st place win. They placed 5th in the Stotesbury Cup Regatta. EA was the only Philadelphia-area school in the Grand Finale. The girls’ boats showed the same tenacity with the Varsity Quad and Double earning bronze medals at the Cities. In addition, the Girls’ Double raced above their best performance to snatch the silver medal at the Stotesbury Cup Regatta. Summer 2017
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Girls’ Golf 5-3 It was a milestone season for girls’ golf as the team accomplished a lot throughout the season. Highlights included lowering the team’s match gross score by ten strokes. Six players (Abby Baggini ’18, MaryKate Chambers ’18, Annabelle Wondrasch ’18, Camilla Stapleton ’19, Amanda Jones ’20, and Lauren Jones ’21) qualified for the Inter-Ac Championship. Lauren Jones placed 2nd at the Inter-Ac Individual Championship. The team placed 3rd at the PAISAA Girls’ Golf Tournament. Eight players will return for what will be another exciting season next year.
Boys’ Lacrosse 11-5 Under the guidance of new varsity head coach Chris Bates, the boys’ lacrosse team had a successful season. The senior class paved the way - led by captains Conner Delaney, Connor Ringwalt, and Jake Martellucci. On offense, CJ McAnally, Nate Emrick, and Will Haab had steady and productive seasons. Dan Baker and Cole Johnson played well as two-way midfielders, while Griffin Ernst was outstanding facing off. Jason Miller and Jake FloydJones anchored the defense along with Delaney. Newcomers from EA football, Chris Rushton and Shane Conlin, also gave the team some much needed help on the defensive end. The team beat Malvern Prep twice and finished 2nd in the Inter-Ac. Conner Delaney was named Inter-Ac MVP. 32
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Girls’ Lacrosse 21-5
Boys’ Tennis 10-3
The team slogan for the 2017 season was “Our Way,” which served as a constant reminder to represent EA through selfless play, relentless work ethic, and unwavering sportsmanship. After play in Maryland and Washington, D.C. over spring break, the team went on a 20-game win streak. The team battled for two overtime wins against Agnes Irwin and ended the season with a 12-0 Inter-Ac record and the league championship! EA girls’ lacrosse was runner-up in the PAISAA Championship. The team’s success was a result of the outstanding leadership demonstrated by seniors Taylor Lucey, Sarah Keffer, and Rachel Yackel. Katie Crager ’18 was selected as Inter-Ac MVP.
It was another exciting season for boys’ tennis. The season started with a win (4-3) over perennially tough Conestoga High School. This team trained hard and gave it their all in every match. Despite losses to The Haverford School, the team proved to be dominant in the league and beyond. The highlight of the season was the inaugural George C. Shafer Doubles Tournament, hosted by EA. It was a weekend filled with some of the most impressive doubles the courts have ever seen. The senior captains, Philip Tobar and Max Guo, led the charge by winning the #2 Division in a spectacular battle in the finals over Haverford. It was a very proud moment for the tennis program and for Episcopal. The team’s dedication and determination bode well for the future of EA tennis.
Inter-Ac League Champions
Boys’ Track & Field 2-4
Softball 10-7
(dual meets)
The girls hit the ground running by winning their league opener against a tough Academy of Notre Dame team. They continued their momentum, only faltering to rival Penn Charter, Springside Chestnut Hill Academy (SCH), and an unlikely upset by the Agnes Irwin School. With an eye on the state title, the senior captains, Ariana Feliziani, Piper Hartman, and Brooke Royer, kept the team focused and the girls never lost hope. They upset the number one seed, SCH, and moved on to the semi-final round where they lost a tough battle to The Hill School (2-3).
Under the leadership of the senior captains, Jake Jorgensen and Jermaine Rhoden, the team enjoyed a season filled with new records and many accomplishments. The team finished 4th at the Inter-Ac Championship, ahead of Malvern Prep and Springside-Chestnut Hill Academy. At the PAISAA Championship, EA finished 6th out of 15. One of the biggest moments of the season occurred at the Delaware County Championship meet when the boys finished 2nd in the Small Schools Division and finished 2nd overall! The team broke numerous records this season: 4x800m Relay (Jeff Coote ’17, Carson Fischer ’19, Jake Jorgensen ’17, and Elias Lindgren ’18), 4x400m Relay (Chris Bassett ’18, Jack Bush ’19, Jermaine Rhoden ’17, and Chris Zimmerman ’19), 200m (Matt Freese ’17), 300 Intermediate Hurdles (Matt Freese ’17), and the 3200m (Elias Lindgren ’18).
Girls’ Track & Field 2-2 (dual meets) Girls’ track enjoyed a successful spring. A mix of veterans and rookies pulled together for true team harmony. The team placed 2nd at both the Inter-Ac and PAISAA Championships. There were also big wins at Perkiomen Valley (3200m) and the Kellerman Relays (4 x 800), and other top finishes/medals were earned at the Delaware County Relays and Delaware County Finals. Maddie O’Reilly ’17 set a new school record in the Javelin (98’ 7”), and Caitlin Jorgensen ’19 set a new record in the 3200m (11:31:11). The team was led by senior captains Carly Fizzano, Molly O’Brien, and Megan Zimmerman.
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FROM THE
Stage & Studio
Spring Plays Transport Audiences From the windy city to the Far East, student performances transported audiences to faraway places this spring. Fifth graders charmed audiences with Somebody Catch My Homework. Based on the poetry of David Harrison, Somebody Catch My Homework combined verse and prose to explore the familiar topic of homework in an engaging way. The Middle School Harlequin Club presented a collection of inspirational stories against an exotic backdrop in The Emperor and the Seed…And Other Tales. From a boy struggling to grow a beautiful plant from a seed given to him by an emperor, to a brother making his sister’s dreams come true on a magic carpet, to frogs learning the importance of encouragement in even the darkest times, The Emperor and the Seed warmed the hearts of audiences in March. In May, magic carpets were swapped with electrifying jazz as the Upper School’s Domino Club lit up the Mainstage Theater with their performances of Chicago. Following “merry murderesses” Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly, Chicago brought the roaring twenties into the 21st century with show-stopping dance numbers, sensational acting, and, of course, all that jazz.
Musicians Shine at Music in the Parks The Middle School music ensembles represented EA at “Music in the Parks” at Hersheypark this May. Seventh grader William Sargent was named Outstanding Vocalist from all participating middle schools. A panel of judges scored and ranked the Middle School Orchestra, Chamber Ensemble, Cantores, Middle School Singers, Symphonic Band, and Jazz Band. The Orchestra, Chamber Ensemble, Singers, and Jazz Band all earned first place honors, with the Symphonic Band and Cantores earning 2nd and 3rd place honors. Summer 2017
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EA Wins Best Play and Best Comic Actor Cappies
Annual Awards Celebrate Artistic Talents EA’s Visual Arts Department recognized 12 students with Dora Khayatt Prizes in 2-D Design, 3-D Design, and Photography this spring. “The Dora Khayatt awards are a wonderful way to support the creative efforts of our students,” said Upper School art teacher Hilary Hutchison, Hon. “Students need to be brave in getting their work out. It is a valuable experience to see their work hanging in the Gallery, outside of the comfort of the work studio, and in context with their peers.” Established in 1990 in memory of the artist and the wife of former EA’s Classics Department Chair John Plant, the Dora Khayatt Fund provides annual support for student awards in the fine arts and music. The winners were announced during ArtsFest in April, and all entries were on display in the Crawford Campus Center Gallery through June. This year’s winners include: 2-D DESIGN First Place – Pia Singh ‘19 A Pear Affair Second Place – Amaal Ladha ‘18 Sketchbook Third Place – Julia DePillis ‘18 Como, Italy Honorable Mention – Jessica Hao ‘19 Whoops 3-D DESIGN First Place – Ann Elisabeth Rau ‘19 Latex Glove Dress Second Place – Piper Hartman ‘17 Blue Walking Figure Third Place – Bing Quan ‘19 Segmented Turned Bowl Honorable Mention – Hadley DeBruyn ‘20 Cathedral PHOTOGRAPHY First Place – Audrey Lee ‘17 Palace (B&W Film) Second Place – Katie Baker ‘20 Self Portrait Third Place – Annin Decker ‘17 Splash Honorable Mention – Maggie Mengel ‘17 Cuba Collection 36
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This May, Episcopal Academy won two Greater Philadelphia Cappies Awards for the fall production of Peter and The Starcatcher. In addition to taking home the highly coveted Best Play award, sophomore McKee Bond received the Cappie in the Best Comic Actor category. EA received 11 overall nominations in sound, lighting, prop, and acting categories, the most nominations any school received this year. The Greater Philadelphia Cappies salute excellence in high school theatre.
The Keys to Artistic Excellence: The Scholastic Awards Nineteen EA students won Scholastic Art Awards in Architecture, Ceramics, Drawing, Sculpture, Photography, Film, Mixed Media, Poetry, Flash Fiction, Short Story, and Writing Portfolio this spring. The Scholastic Awards recognize and celebrate talent, creativity, and critical thinking in 7th through 12th graders. Anonymous jurors judged pieces from more than 330,000 students in regional competitions around the country. Pieces are awarded as Gold Keys, Silver Keys, and Honorable Mention. Gold Key awardees move to the National level for judging. GOLD KEY RECIPIENTS: Jessica Hao (2), Audrey Lee (3), Lee Lee McNeil, Alexandra Peyton SILVER KEY RECIPIENTS: Sydney Donaldson (2), Piper Hartman (2), Lizzie King (4), Audrey Lee (2), Maggie Mengel (3), Alexandra Peyton (2), Pia Singh (4), Catherine Spellman, Theodore Vadot, Patrick Zhang HONORABLE MENTION RECIPIENTS: Tim Baker (3), Bridget Boyle (2), Olivia Cipperman (2), Hadley DeBruyn, Sydney Donaldson, Ailysh Flahaven, Lizzie King, Amaal Ladha (3), Audrey Lee, Laura Lewis, Lee Lee McNeil, Maggie Mengel (2), Alexandra Peyton, Pia Singh (2)
Campus Comes Alive at Artsfest The Pennsylvania Ballet II opened this April’s Artsfest with an exclusive performance for students (see page 6), kicking off the annual tradition with an elegant twist. Later that afternoon, students, teachers, and parents from every division spilled out across campus to take part in interactive arts workshops, gallery installations, and musical, theatrical, and dance performances. A well-loved event, Artsfest provides time for the EA community to appreciate our vibrant arts programs during the school day.
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ALUMNI WEEKEND T H E C L A S S O F 1 9 6 7 C E L E B R AT E S 5 0 Y E A R S
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T H E C L A S S O F ’ 6 7 celebrated its 50th reunion this year. The weekend kicked off with the annual Alumni Chapel service during which John van Roden, Jr. ’67 encouraged students to “make it personal, say thank you” as they navigate through higher education and the working world. Later that day, members of the class toured campus, chatted with Upper School students, and met their 3rd grade “pen pals,” a newer tradition that began a few years ago. They have been corresponding through letters throughout the school year and were excited to meet in person and talk about the similarities and differences of being an EA student then and now. The Class then gathered for a special dinner and presented Dr. T.J. Locke with a generous donation to establish a scholarship fund in memory of classmate Thomas W. Supplee.
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O N S AT U R D AY, members of our senior classes visited campus for a special luncheon. Later that evening, alumni reconnected while sipping on mint juleps and watching the live broadcast of the Kentucky Derby under the big tent on the Clark Campus Green. Fun was had by all, especially those classes celebrating reunions!
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1942 & 1937
1942
1957
1962
1982
1987
ALUMNI WEEKEND
1947
1952
1972
1977
1992
1997 Summer 2017
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Class Notes 1930s 1936 Fred Clark just turned 99 and is still active and working on homeless issues in Sarasota, FL.
1937 Francis Coxe Forbes passed away March 20, 2017. He leaves behind a long list of EA legacies.
1940s 1940 Forrest Gager writes: “I was surprised, but pleased to see in the recent Connections Spring 2017 that the 1941 Baseball Team was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame. It was a long time coming! I was a sub utility infielder (good glove, no hit) in 1940 who was put in by Ray Keegan, Hon. to help save no-hitters for Charley Shreiner. He had several. We also had the second best pitcher in the area, Walt Muller. Colby Wilson and Shreiner were consistent hitters. I still live at Westminster Canterbury in a cottage, but my wife is in Health Care. Unfortunately Dick Birch ’44 died May 27, 2017. He only went to Episcopal for two years so we never met then. I met him and Pat here at WC, Lynchburg. Warm regards to all.”
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S END US YOUR NEWS We love to hear from you! Submit your latest milestones, news, and updates to be included in a future issue of Connections. Visit www.episcopalacademy.org/classnotes.
1941 The 1941 Baseball Team was inducted into EA’s Athletic Hall of Fame at this year’s Alumni Awards ceremony. Led by Coach Keegan, the team won its third straight Inter-Ac Championship and finished undefeated for the season. Two other records were set: winning 24 straight league games and 27 straight games. Many agree that this is the best baseball team in EA history.
1943
75
th
Reunion Year
May 4 & 5, 2018
1946 CLASS AGENT: Winkie Bennett Price Heppe will spend this summer at his cottage at Little Deer Isle in Maine (in The Penobscot Bay, south of Bar Harbor). The cottage was passed on to him years ago by his mother, and this will be his 90th year there. During their senior year, classmates Bill and Dave Forrest, Pete Delone, and Bill Buchanan visited. Partnering with some neighbors, they all fielded a baseball team and played against the local high school team. Price’s best friend, Pete Delone, enjoyed Maine so much that he bought a neighboring cottage there.
1947 CLASS AGENT NEEDED Walter Bortz shares that much has happened in the past 70 years. He was
married for 62 years, has four kids and nine grandkids, and has been widowed for the past two years. He was embedded at Stanford Medical School as professor of medicine, and he is still teaching and writing. His mantra is to live to be 100, and he invites everyone to join him! Visit walterbortz.com to learn more.
1948
70
th
Reunion Year
May 4 & 5, 2018 David Maxwell writes, “My wife, Joan Paddock Maxwell’s memoir of her service as a palliative care hospital chaplain will be published this summer. Soul Support, Spiritual Encounters at Life’s End will be available on Amazon. Author’s royalties 100% to charity.”
1949
“Two Class of ’49ers having dinner at Veranda Restaurant in downtown Naples, FL. The lady is Spike Schellenger’s friend, Ann. Best, Britt Murdoch and Spike Schellenger.”
CLASS AGENT: John Rettew
Mike Shouvlin was inducted into EA’s Athletic Hall of Fame at this year’s Alumni Awards ceremony. Although he was only at EA for two years, he quickly made his mark by earning four varsity letters. He was all-league, first-team as quarterback on the Inter-Ac-winning football team, and excelled in basketball, baseball, and track. John Rettew was in attendance cheering Mike on.
1951
1952 CLASS AGENTS: Jim Siegel & Craig TenBroeck
Class Notes
1950
for several decades, I worked at the Diocese of Hawaii and the Diocese of Los Angeles, where I was a rector, youth minister, and founder of a drug clinic and runaway shelter. My teachings have been described as provocative and challenging, but my message has always been one of love and acceptance. I invite all my friends and former classmates, the chaplain, and those who teach religion to read my newly published book, Cramming for the Finals, which offers fresh ideas on how a fourthcentury theology can be relevant today and explores how Jesus, if he were living among us today, would feel about a range of issues, including women pastors, same-sex relationships, and Muslims.”
Send us your news! Visit episcopalacademy.org/classnotes.
1950s
Robert Strippy reports, “Despite the annoyances of heart failure and arthritis, I manage to maintain a reasonable schedule of organ recitals. So far this year, I have played in Charleston, SC; Greenville, SC; Charlotte, NC; Knoxville, TN; and the U.S. Naval Academy chapel in Annapolis. I also became a greatgrandfather, the first in my family to live long enough to see such an event.”
Willis “Wiz” Arndt published his first book, ‘Wizdom’ Memos: Thoughts, Observations, Bits of Advice On Life, in November 2016.
William Aulenbach reports, “I’ve spent a large part of my life shining a light on the true message of Jesus: putting love into action. As an Episcopal clergyman and teacher
Don Race celebrated his 85th birthday in May. Recently, he took on a plumbing project at his home that began small and kept getting bigger. After the use of a chainsaw, a pipe cutter, and a welding torch, he achieved success in fixing the outdoor spigot! Roly Morris reports, “My wife, Sal, and I have retired to Beaumont in Bryn Mawr and wish well to all.”
Jim Siegel has agreed to be the co-class agent and would appreciate class updates for Connections. He is pictured here with great-grandson, Liam Blair, who will graduate in the class of 2024. The class wishes Henry Warner a speedy recovery from his recent leg amputation caused by an accident on his fishing boat in Tampa, FL. He plans to go fishing again in June. “Our 65th reunion had seven of our class members in attendance, and everyone was pleased with their visit to the new campus.” Summer 2017
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Hollinshead T. “Lin” Knight shares that he returned to work at the age of 83, and he is having fun! His grandpappy used to say, “It’s better to wear out than to rust out.” In his 13th job since “retirement,” he is now working half-time at St. Mary the Virgin Episcopal Church in San Francisco as interim until the new rector arrives at the end of summer. Craig TenBroeck reports, “On Saturday, May 5 a small group of guys from the class of ’52 met at Waynesboro Country Club for a delightful time of conversation, cocktails, and dinner. Those in attendance were John Haines, Bob Gerhardt, Jim Siegel, Dave Fricke, Craig TenBroeck, and Barclay Beahm. It was a delight to be together again. Several wives joined in on the festivities.”
1953 CLASS AGENT: Lynne Graburn
65
th
Reunion Year
May 4 & 5, 2018 Richard Behr is looking forward to attending his 60th reunion at Trinity College. Don Pillsbury, Jr. will also be attending the four-day celebration along with their wives. Bruce Watson shares that he and Chuck Evans enjoyed their 60th in May at Amherst College. Kirk Hall could not make it. The Amherst mascot is no longer Lord Jeff but the Wooly Mammoth. Bruce chaired a presentation of the Amherst College Pilot’s Assn. Nate Bachman reports, “Over the past 60+ years I have not contributed anything to the class columns. Here is a brief try. I recently celebrated my 60th reunion with the class of ’58 at Princeton University. I was the editor of the yearbook for this major reunion in May. Tim Jayne and I met together near Tim’s home in Oxford, PA. My wife, Lynda, and I still continue to live in Cincinnati, OH and Sun Valley, ID. Although I only attended EA for junior
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Connections
and senior years, I remain grateful for the high-quality education.”
1954 CLASS AGENT: Bill Sykes
Curt Young was presented the Distinguished Service award by The Episcopal Academy Alumni Society at this year’s Alumni Awards ceremony. Curt was recognized for his outstanding service to the school as demonstrated by loyal participation and exceptional contributions of time, effort, and personal resources.
1955 CLASS AGENT NEEDED William “Bill” Lilley writes that he enjoyed celebrating Walter Buckley’s 80th birthday in Manhattan on May 20th along with Ham Clark, Hon., Roger Colley ’56, Dana Lerch, and other classmates.
1956 CLASS AGENT: Bill Rapp The 1956 Track Team was inducted into EA’s Athletic Hall of Fame at this year’s Alumni Society Awards ceremony. The ’56 team was wellbalanced, highly competitive, and successful thanks to the spirit of the team members and outstanding coaching by Messrs. Brennan, Schlegel, and George Greenwood, Hon. They earned EA’s first championship since 1950 by placing in every event and winning five of them.
David Scott was presented the Community Service award by The Episcopal Academy Alumni Society at this year’s Alumni Society Awards ceremony. He was recognized for the difference one person can make in the lives of others through volunteering his time and talents. Chris Shaw reports, “We are expecting more than 40 campers for our ninth Youth Bridge Camp, which includes a full week of learning and playing at Lake Williamson, a residential retreat center in Illinois.
1957 CLASS AGENTS: John Clendenning, Howard Morgan, & Geoff Worden 60 Reunion Recap: Howard Moorgan reports, “Friday, May 5 (May Day, May Day) we began with a wonderful gathering at the country home of Ann and Ross Watson, featuring a wonderful homecooked stew and BEVY OF GEESE WHICH PATROLLED THE GROUNDS. Appetizers, side dishes, and dessert were provided by MaryAnne (Jay) Stetzer and Betsy (Howard) Morgan. About 20 class members and their wives attended. A great gathering! Thanks, Ross! We attended Chapel at EA and a very informative “town hall” with Dr. T.J. Locke. On Friday afternoon, we met with the third-grade classes to have discourse on EA and how it was 60 years ago. Saturday’s Luncheon at EA featured two tables filled with Class of ‘57 members and wives. Saturday
1958
60
th
Reunion Year
May 4 & 5, 2018
1959 CLASS AGENT NEEDED
1960 Maurice Heckscher reports, “Very happy to announce that George and Wendy David brought into the world a healthy George Theodore David on December 4, 2016. Wendy says he’s the spitting image of his dad. George, you continue to amaze!” Maurice Heckscher also shares, “I am very proud to say that I was recently elected to the United States Squash Hall of Fame! I am going in with two other players, and we will be the 59-61st people so elected. The ceremony will be held at a luncheon in mid-October in conjunction with the US Open Championship at Drexel University.”
1961
Ross Watson reports, “On Friday night [of Alumni Weekend], Ann and I hosted dinner in my photo studio. It was a great success due to help by Betsy Morgan, Edwina Arnold, and Mary Anne Stetzer. Turnout was terrific. I think half the class was there, and it didn’t rain! At Saturday’s Alumni Awards banquet, I was drafted to speak on behalf of the 1956 track team.”
Terry Davis retired from pediatric heart surgery in 2004 but remains active, full-time administratively at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, OH. After a few health scares, Barb is now good and has a clean bill of health. Their two boys and four grandchildren all live in Columbus, which gives Terry and Barb plenty of grandparenting time. Terry also still plays in a locally popular band, Grassinine (www.grassinine.com) which is fun. “Life is good,” shared Terry.
David Prewitt tells us, “Here is a photo of Bruce Bennett and me, while we were attending lunch during the Reunion Weekend. I
1960s
Class Notes
Classmates who attended one or more events included: Ross Watson, Howard Morgan, Joe Armstrong, Dick and Edwina Arnold, Bruce Bennett, John Clendenning, Joe Cole, Jay and Rosemarie Crawford, Charlie Grigg, Jim Langham and Nina Pielican, Sandy and Patsy McCurdy, Ray and Jill Munder, Gil Parker, Dave and Joan Prewitt, Bob Reed, Thorne and Marby Sparkman, Jay and MaryAnne Stetzer, Andy Supplee, and Geoff Worden. A great weekend and thanks to Bruce and the Alumni Department for all their assistance throughout.”
had the opportunity to get to know Bruce. I left Episcopal at the end of 8th grade to attend Culver Military Academy. It turns out that Bruce is the son of the founder of my law firm, Bennett, Bricklin, and Saltzburg. Small world.”
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evening found most of the attendees at “Run For the Roses” party and Kentucky Derby under the tent at EA and heavy hor’s doeuvres, desserts, and cocktails, complements of the EA Alumni Relations Department. Sunday brunch at the Morgans’ house in Wayne was a successful way to wrap up the weekend!
Rowley Watson reports: “I attended the memorial service for Lowrey Heaver on June 3, 2017. It was packed with his classmates from F&M. I was the only Episcopal classmate (that I recognized). What a loss!”
Rush Haines reports, “Here is a picture of Susie and me with daughter Jen (Haines) Butler ’88, her husband Christopher Butler, and their children, Charlotte, age 10; Annabelle, age 7; and Madeline, age 2 ½, at the start of the P-Rade for our Princeton Reunions, Jen’s 25th and my 52nd, on June 3.” Summer 2017
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1962
to building bird houses that rival Dr. Seuss.”
CLASS AGENTS: Laird Evans, Jim Fulton, & Bob Stavers
He also was instrumental in connecting an EA class with Gen. Michael Hayden, former director of both the CIA and NSA, for a Skype visit.
1964 CLASS AGENT: Tom Zug
Laird Evans, Rick Duffield, Ken Caro, and John Hodge had a wonderful 55th reunion dinner at Rick’s house in late May. Drew Jackson reports, “My daughter, Jennie ’01 and her husband, Russell Walter, have had their first child, Nora Grace Walter, on May 31, 2017.”
Ed Vick’s granddaughter in her EA onesie.
1963 CLASS AGENT: Drew Jackson
55
th
Reunion Year
May 4 & 5, 2018
Rick Berlin (Kinscherf) reports that his band, the Nickel & Dime Band, is in their seventh year and about to finish up their fourth record, The Courage Of The Lonely. The JP Music Festival continues to grow and will be held this year on Saturday, September 9. Rick has also written a book, The Paragraphs, published by Cutlass Press. Learn more at berlinrick.com.
Colin Hanna reports, “For the last year—and probably the next year plus—I’ve been working on producing a full-length movie for theatrical release on the life of Frederick Douglass. Our working title is Frederick Douglass’ Majestic Wrath, taken from a famous remark about him by Elizabeth Cady Stanton. You can sign up for news updates on our progress at FrederickDouglass.movie.”
Ben Foster is still teaching at Yale. He and Karen recently lectured academic tours to Ethiopia and Iran. He is currently completing a new edition of his translation of The Epic of Gilgamesh for the Norton Critical Edition series.
Jim Rooks reports, “Our class artist Nick Crowell ’63 & ’64 has taken 46
Connections
Bill Richards has formed a new firm with two retired US State Department Middle East experts. Arabia Analytica LLC provides general advice regarding the Middle East and specific advice regarding Saudi Arabia.
Dave Trainer and his wife, Betsy, celebrated their 50th anniversary with a Windjammers trip to the Caribbean Islands starting at St. Martin. They had a great trip under the sail and had lots of fun, sun, and rum.
Pete Gable spent 23 years as the pastor of Victory Baptist Church in Raleigh, NC. He retired in 2015 and moved to Florida. He shared that they missed the kids and grandkids so much that they are now “snowbirds.”
CLASS AGENT: Steve Dittmann
Bill Stewart tells us, “Gerry Eskine and I met up in Tucson for four days
CLASS AGENT NEEDED For photos from the Class of 1967’s 50th Reunion, visit page 38.
John C. van Roden, Jr. was presented the Distinguished Alumni award by The Episcopal Academy Alumni Society at this year’s Alumni Awards ceremony. The award recognizes him for a broad range of achievements and contributions, including his career in business, service on EA’s Alumni Board of Managers, Board of Trustees, and other contributions to his community.
1966
Reeves Callaway shares that his son, Pete, can be seen driving on the new Mothers Polish ad. He and his son also appeared on an episode of Jay Leno’s Garage this past spring. You can view the clip on YouTube.
1967
Class Notes
CLASS AGENT: Loyd Pakradooni
in mid-May. He drove from Florida and I from So CA. We’d talked about meeting somewhere in 2017 at our 50th Reunion, so we made it happen. Visited and hiked in several places. Picture of a very spectacular and carefully preserved cavern system south of Tucson. Other venues were Tombstone & Kitt Peak National Observatory. Lots of fun and educational experience.”
Phil Gleason reports, “By the time this issue of Connections is published, I hope to be somewhere near Niagara Falls, NY, approximately 3,000 miles into a cross-country bicycle adventure that started on June 18 in Astoria, Oregon and ends on August 7th in Portsmouth, NH. Before leaving, I pretty much retired from Bernstein Shur, my law firm for the past 41 years, so this is definitely a time of transition. My wife, Mary Schendel, and I continue to live in Cumberland, Maine, and now that I have a bit more free time on my hands we welcome visitors, even those just making a quick stop on their way to Acadia National Park or some other Maine destination.” Robert Fritz reports, “At last year’s reunion, I mentioned that Gioia and I would be moving to Italy soon. Well, soon is now. Movers are coming June 29, and we’ll be leaving for Rome on July 8! So, either I’ll see you in Rome or at our 55th Reunion.”
Send us your news! Visit episcopalacademy.org/classnotes.
1965
Jon Butler pictured with Roman Oben (NFL), Mitch McConnell (Senate Majority Leader), Katherine Kinsey (Cooper Institute), and Tom Cove (President of SFIA) at the annual Lobbying Day for the Sports & Fitness Industry Association. Christy Bell says: “Thank you, Dr. Locke, the Alumni office, Episcopal Academy, and the Class of 1967 for a remarkable and memorable reunion. It was amazing to reconnect so quickly, to see where life has brought us, and to realize the role EA and classmates played therein. EA seems to be every bit as vibrant as years ago. Maybe more so. The lessons and experiences gained are truly a gift to every graduate. Where did all those years go? Congratulations to John van Roden. Well done, sir!” Summer 2017
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1968 CLASS AGENT: Robert Mayock
50
th
Reunion Year
May 4 & 5, 2018
Guy Croyle retired from Juniata College’s Offices of College Advancement in January 2016, but he continues to work part-time with Juniata’s Center for International Education. He hosted the Juniata College Concert Choir in May 2016 in his home in Újszász, Hungary, escorting the choir for concerts in Brno and Olomouc, Czech Republic. He also spent time at his mother’s ancestral home in the Italian Piedmont and lectured at Juniata this summer on Bach and Brahms and the composers’ “crafts” of communicating emotion through their music. They continue their annual international travel: this fall to Reykjavík, Paris, and Iona (Scotland).
1969 CLASS AGENT NEEDED
Taylor Fernley and son Kyle (pictured here) successfully ascended Rendezvous Mountain (Elevation 10,450 feet) in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, breaking their goal of four hours with two minutes to spare. Taylor was also recently elected to the Board of Director of the Philadelphia Police Foundation. Fernley & Fernley, Inc., where Taylor is President and CEO, was recognized as the 2017 Smart CEO Family Business of the Year and was recently awarded the management contract for The Museum Store Association (MSA) whose mission is to advance the non-profit retail industry. It brings over 15 trade associations and professional societies under Fernley management. Rick Crecraft reports that his selfillustrated book, The Monarch of Tall Pines Pool, is now listed with Amazon and Kindle. It is an informative adventure story for all ages, involving 10 diverse and exciting days in the Adirondacks. He hopes his classmates will pick up copies for anyone who enjoys fishing, hiking, mountain climbing, rapid-running, and the wonders of nature. 48
Connections
1970s 1971 CLASS AGENT NEEDED
Sam Kier retired after 30 years at IBM and 10 years at Ricoh on Independence Day 2017. Sam and his wife (Pam) of 45 years currently live in Bastrop, TX (near Austin). They have three children and five grandchildren. In November 2016, Sam and Pam (aka Spam) hiked round-trip to Phantom Ranch in the Grand Canyon from the South Rim.
Harrison Crecraft recently published Evolving Complexity: Time’s Arrows and the Physics of Emergence. Scott Bullitt reports, “My partner has been in Hungary since last September, teaching children in grades 1 through 12 to speak English at a school in a small town. In April, I flew over to visit him during the school’s Easter holiday break. We spent several days in Budapest, which was a lot of fun. When he returned to the school, I met another friend with whom I visited the Riviera in Nice and Monaco and then took a train up to Paris, where I spent a few nights before returning home to Florida.”
Steve Dittmann ’66 and Fred Dittmann at the Alumni Society Awards program in May.
Anthony Brown became a grandfather for the fifth time with the May 30th arrival of Adler Birch Brown, son of Jenny Johnson and Sam Brown ’97.
1972
Their evening concluded with a short visit to the hallway in the gymnasium to see their long-missing class shield installed in its permanent location high on the wall above. The 50th reunion in 2022 will be a significant milestone in the history of the class, and its success will require advance planning and participation from a collaborative team. Class members are strongly encouraged to consider bringing their talents and efforts to bear on this worthy cause.
Class Notes
Your Planned Gift can make a difference for future generations of students. Contact Patsy Porter at 484-424-1780 to learn more.
1975
Send us your news! Visit episcopalacademy.org/classnotes.
YOUR LEGACY, THEIR FUTURE
EA time other than when we play each other! Our three children are spread between high school and college, and we try to spend some vacation time in Virginia every year. A great pleasure comes from occasionally seeing classmates, seeing them in the news, or hearing from mutual friends I did not know we had. I deal with the daily news from #45 by remembering the ideals espoused by my classmates and faculty, both of whom were inspirational and positive groups in many different ways.”
CLASS AGENT: Jim Cooke
1973
45
th
Reunion Year
May 4 & 5, 2018
45th Reunion Weekend Recap: On Friday evening, John Senior and his wife, Nancy Kimmons, hosted a small informal gathering that included Chris Istrati, Myree Mason, Rob Manganaro Morris, Jeff Schaefer, Bill Suplee, and Rob Williams. As the pleasant evening drew to a close, those in attendance were treated to the world premiere of the 35-year-old underground classic film They Came to Maine featuring Rob, John, and Nancy, along with three other fearless visionaries. Welcome glimpses of another time long ago and far away. On Saturday evening, four class members attended the on-campus, all-class cocktail party coinciding with the Kentucky Derby. Stephen Lewicki, Jeff Schaefer, John Senior (with wife Nancy), and Rob Williams (joined by his fiancée Michelle Casario) represented the class with distinction at the event and had a nice time catching up, enjoying the food & beverages, and chatting with other attendees.
Bill Luff reports, “We had our kickoff 45th class reunion sub-committees meeting. Counter clockwise: Martin Heldring (Audit), Steve Imbriglia (Legal), Rex Gary (Chairman), JJ Broderick (Statistician), Bob Roehr (Food & Beverage), Bill Luff (Marketing), and Chris Cole in absentia (Finance—event self-funding). We encourage all to participate!”
1974 CLASS AGENT: John Spofford Peter Quinn reports, “I continue to enjoy my school work and follow news from Episcopal more closely now that we are closer to the area. I regret that a busy school schedule at Peddie prevents me from much
George Bell reports, “Our middle son, Henry, graduated from Trinity College in May, following his older brother, George T’15, and to be followed by his younger brother, Jimmy T’19—you could say the Bell brothers have no imagination or are very close, which is the explanation we prefer. This spring we kicked off the Jamie Bell Music program at Springside CHA, in honor of my brother who passed away three years ago. Big concert, lots of warm memories of Jamie and nice to be back in Philly briefly. I was in New Zealand and Paris recently, both business trips, and we finished building a house in Delray Beach, FL and expect to be down there more in winters. I continue to serve on a number of boards, private and public; play a good deal of sports still; and attend Bikram (hot) yoga, which I’ve decided is my last, best defense against age.” Summer 2017
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James Rudisill will retire from West Chester University this August. He served as the men’s and women’s swimming & diving head coach for the past 29 years and single-handedly constructed West Chester into one of the most dominant programs in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC), as well as all of Division II. Throughout his illustrious college coaching career, Jamie has won 34 combined conference championships, finished among the top four programs in the country 10 times at nationals, and was named PSAC coach of the year 16 combined times. Under his guidance, West Chester’s swimming & diving teams authored a combined record of 331-136 (.709) in dual meets. He leaves as the school’s all-time winningest swim coach with the longest tenured career. Jay Snider reports, “My son Cody married Lindsey Powell on December 10, and I became a grandfather on May 9 thanks to son Jamie and daughter-in-law Amy. Todd just graduated from Penn. Still living happily in Pacific Palisades with my office in Venice beach, two blocks from the beach.”
1976 CLASS AGENT NEEDED
1977
1979
CLASS AGENT: Jim Alton
CLASS AGENTS: Ned Lee & Chris Young
Marc Firestone and Marilla have been happily living in Switzerland for 5+ years. Their daughters, who are in a local school, now speak English, French, and German. Marc thanks EA for the solid curriculum of Latin and French that he enjoyed. Preston begins his freshman year at the University of St. Andrews, Scotland in September. Unfortunately, Marc couldn’t attend the 40th reunion, but he hopes to be there in 2022. Tac Justi reports, “This summer, Melinda and I celebrate our 34th wedding anniversary. We were law school sweethearts at Dickinson in the early ‘80s. We have three children (happily, all of whom are off the dole!). Henry, 33 works for one of our companies, representing it in Asia and Latin America. Parker, 30 is an attorney with the law firm Skadden Arps. Lainie, 24 is a television producer and, occasionally, director, currently based in Los Angeles. Professionally, after practicing law with Pepper Hamilton in Philadelphia, in 1991, I took over a small family business producing custom dental acrylics which, over the last quarter century, has grown nicely to include an integrated group of companies manufacturing specialty materials for a range of industries. Melinda and I split our time between Haverford, Stone Harbor, NJ, and the Johns Island Club in Vero Beach, FL.”
1978
40
th
Reunion Year
May 4 & 5, 2018 The 1975-76 Wrestling Team was inducted into EA’s Athletic Hall of Fame at this year’s Alumni Awards ceremony. Coached by Gus Compson, Hon. and Crawford Hill ’70, the team compiled a 14-2 record and won the Inter-Ac Championship. Highlights included winning the Chestnut Hill Tournament and defeating Haverford School for the first time in 26 years. 50
Connections
Sam Olshin is designing an expanded campus for the Santiago Christian School in the Dominican Republic and working on an expansion and improvements to the dining hall at Episcopal. He looks forward to the 40th reunion next year.
Christian Miller is still working for Bank of America Merrill Lynch in Southern California, covering the Pacific states in a sales and advisory capacity. His two boys are finishing up college, one in Colorado and the other in California.
William Gordon Lichtenwalner is currently loving single life in Barcelona, Spain and ski racing for the Park City Masters Ski Team during winters. His son Willie (28) works on Wall Street and daughter Haley (26) teaches in Atlanta. John Peruto, Esq. shares that the last of his three kids just graduated from Saint Joseph’s University. John has been racing cars since 2003 and started an endurance team in 2013. He has been in the American Endurance Racing series and won his class overall after the 18-hour event in Millville, NJ in May. Team #300 EZ Riders Mercedes races at Watkins Glen and other major tracks on the east coast.
CLASS AGENT: David Reape
Greg Penske was inducted into EA’s Athletic Hall of Fame at this year’s Alumni Society Awards ceremony. A multi-sport athlete, Greg excelled in lacrosse and soccer. In soccer, he was a three-year letter winner, All Inter-Ac as a junior, and All Inter-Ac, League MVP, First-Team All City, and First-Team All State as a senior. In lacrosse, he was a three-year letter winner, All Inter-Ac as a junior, and, as a senior, earned All Inter-Ac, All Main Line, All State, and All American.
Taiwan, Canada, England, Portugal, and Brazil), writing esoteric books (most recent: one about virtual reality and the other about lost civilizations), tolling around on the guitar, working on his Chinese, and playing soccer on the weekends. Fortunately, his wife and daughter tolerate this very un-Episcopal Academy lifestyle.
Class Notes
1980
Greg Penske and his family at Greg’s recent induction into the Athletic Hall of Fame on May 6. The morning of his induction, Greg played golf at Merion East with classmates Norm Fitzpatrick, Brad Bradbeer, and Bob Zullinger. The Giles also saw Greg and his family at their daughter’s recent graduation (pictured above) since Caroline and Sophia have been friends since the first day of college. Michael Williams reports that daughter Leslie ’13 recently graduated from Carnegie Mellon University with a degree in Finance with Honors. She is now working for his firm, First Financial Networks, as a registered investment advisor. She is currently studying to receive her CFP and to become a Registered Securities Principal Ken Tepper is a candidate for Township Commissioner in Ward 2, which includes parts of Gladwyne and Penn Valley.
1981 CLASS AGENT: Ben Thompson
Send us your news! Visit episcopalacademy.org/classnotes.
1980s
Dennis C. Johnson, III has accepted the position of Director of Marketing and Sales for Vantastic Designs & Promotions and will direct the promotional efforts in the United States and internationally. Marty Korman is living in San Francisco with Liz, his wife of 26 years. His daughter, Hayley, is a junior at Colorado College and his son, Sam, is at Andover. As a transactions lawyer, Marty represented LinkedIn during the sale to Microsoft.
Karl Guenther and wife Linda will become empty nesters after this year. KJ is off to Colorado College this year, and twins Kazimar and Kitty are heading into their senior year before college.
Joe Giles enjoyed catching up with
1982 CLASS AGENTS: Jim Farrell & Brooke Mc Mullin
Benjamin Olshin reports that he continues to live an erratic if not errant life, avoiding the solid careerpaths of his fellow classmates. He is a full professor at the modest arts university where he’s been teaching design, philosophy, and history for some years now. But his life is mostly characterized by travelling and giving lectures in various places (most recent: Mainland China,
Brooke McMullin shared that it was great to see Bill Bagnell, Mike D’Alicandro, Ed Jaeger, Pete Gregory, Chris Hopkins, Bob Kunik, Scott Neave, John Stelwagon, John Voigt, Edward Jaeger, Andrew Howe, Mark Miller, Richard Seestedt, Brooke McMullin, Steve Jannetta, Trupert Ortlieb, Bill Hompe, Jim Fogerty, and Clayton French at the 35th Reunion. Edna, Hon. and Len Haley, Hon. were special guests whose fund the class is supporting. Summer 2017
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Several significant others were also in attendance including Jim “Foghead” Fogerty’s large dog who travelled with him on the plane from Texas. The barn venue was great thanks to Chris Hopkins, and a good time was had by all. Bill Bagnell shared that it was great to see everyone at their 35th Reunion in May! He said, “Thanks to Chris Hopkins, we were able to use the Liseter Barn on the old DuPont estate.”
Kurt Witzgall reports that his oldest son, Ian Witzgall, will be following in his footsteps this coming fall when he will begin attending William & Mary.
1984 CLASS AGENTS: Bill Keffer & Karl Mayro
of Amanda’s comfort zone, but she decided to take on the challenge. She explained that she channeled her teenage years and chose a Madonna medley. “I am proud to say I won, for my fundraising efforts that is! It was a blast. I’m so glad I did it, but I have officially retired my dancing shoes!” John W. Dornberger was recognized as the 2017 Lawyer of the Year for Construction Litigation Law by Best Lawyers.
1983
1986
CLASS AGENT: Jamie Hole
CLASS AGENT: Karen Marston
35
th
Reunion Year
May 4 & 5, 2018 Ayn (Crawford) Lever reports that her son, Alexandre, has been accepted into the Class of 2021 at Dickinson College. He will continue the Red Devil legacy begun by his parents. Ayn and her husband will be celebrating 20 years of marriage on August 30.
James “Jamie” Harper published a new book, The Barberini Tapestries: Woven Monuments of the Roman Baroque (Milan: Officina Libraria, 2017). The publication was accompanied by a major exhibition and an interactive website, barberini.uoregon.edu. Stew Keener and his wife, Julie, opened Bar Hygge, a restaurant and brewery in the Fairmount section of Philadelphia, in February 2016. They also own Baggataway Tavern in West Conshohocken. Gene Linkmeyer recently opened his new law firm, which will focus on business divorce—resolving the disputes that arise when local corporations transition between generations or when differing internal factions dispute control and ownership issues. He welcomes the opportunity to help EA alums resolve business divorce and commercial litigation disputes. 52
Connections
Amanda (Lamb) Griffin participated in “Dancing Like the Stars” at the North Carolina Women’s Show. The event, which is modeled after the popular television show, pairs local celebrities with professional dancers. The goal is to raise money for the National Inclusion Project which makes sure children with disabilities have access to recreational activities in their communities. It was way out
Gregory Milbourne is still living in Swarthmore with his lovely wife, Mary Susan, and daughter, Ashlyn (14), and son, Aidan (12). His psychology office is in Media, and between family activities and work obligations, he tries to stay in shape (can’t quite fend off turning 50 soon) by pacing half and full marathons. Here, Gregory can be seen pacing the Chester County Half Marathon, which runs through Hibernia Park where he camped with Joel Moore’s fifth grade class years ago! Jason Farber reports that his sons, Zach and Jacob, are 18 and 16. Zach is graduating Mercer Island High School and will attend the business school at University of San Diego. Jason has been engaged for five years to Kristin, who runs her own business, Just Better Brands (nutrition supplement). Jason currently leads the Healthcare M&A practice and co-leads the Healthcare industry practice at Davis Wright Tremaine LLP, a law firm with 550 lawyers in the US and China.
Tap into the power of the Episcopal network by setting up your profile today at www.episcopalacademy.alumnifire.com. Our easyto-use, online platform allows you to connect with alumni, search for new career opportunities, or post your job openings.
CLASS AGENT NEEDED
30
th
Reunion Year
May 4 & 5, 2018
1989 CLASS AGENT: Beck (White) Kreutz
Adam Farber and his wife, Amy, recently moved from Cohasset, MA to Dedham, MA, given that their three children, Max, age 16, Sam, age 15,
CLASS AGENT: Dave Freeman
and Ollie, age 11, are all in private schools. Max and Sam both attend Noble & Greenough School, where EA’s own Dr. Catherine Hall will be the next Head of School. They are very excited! Adam shared, “Hard to believe we are soon coming up on 30th reunion! Good thing we are still young. Hope everyone is very well!” Steve Strawbridge has been at the Pro Football Hall of Fame for nine years now and recently was promoted to Chief Administrative Officer. He lives in Hudson, Ohio with wife Lisa, daughter Bryn (16), and son Peter (14).
Mike Goldstein had a great time this past September reuniting with ‘88 classmates Jason Freeman and Bill Marvin, along with their lovely brides, Lori Schwanhausser Freeman and Michelle Poley Marvin. Mike has been at the JCC of Central NJ since 2004, where he currently serves as the Chief Operating Officer. His elder daughter, Bess, is finishing her sophomore year boarding at The Westtown School, where his wife, Carol Wetherill Goldstein, attended, as well as many generations of Wetherills dating back to the early 1800s. They are now proud Westtown parents as the legacy lives on. Ella (now in 6th grade) looks forward to following in her big sister’s footsteps.
1990
Send us your news! Visit episcopalacademy.org/classnotes.
1988
1990s
Class Notes
IT’S ALL ABOUT NETWORKING!
Michael Baumholtz reports, “A year of change (and change is good). Opening a solo plastic surgery practice in August (BaumholtzPlasticSurgery.com). Kids doing well. Texas in the summer— what could be better (the heat melts your brain a bit).”
1991 CLASS AGENTS: Joe Bongiovanni & Holly (Sando) Rieck
Ben Pearcy was presented the Achievement in the Arts award by The Episcopal Academy Alumni Society at this year’s Alumni Awards ceremony. Terry MacNeish shared that Lilly is a freshman at the College of the Atlantic in Bar Harbor. Frances is eyeing University of Vermont. Mungo mostly skateboards. Terry now runs an R&D group working on additive manufacturing technologies and still consults on optical/monitoring projects.
Matt Michael and his wife, Jean, had their first child, Vincent Henry Michael, on March 17, 2017. He is a bundle of joy! Summer 2017
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The Rev. Dr. Stephen Butler Murray is President and Professor of Systematic Theology and Preaching at Ecumenical Theological Seminary in Detroit, Michigan. He recently stepped down from serving as Executive Minister of the International Council of Community Churches and the Governing Board of the National Council of Churches. The Center for American Progress last year named him among “16 Faith Leaders to Watch in 2016.”
1992 CLASS AGENTS: Bill Dougherty & Charley French
relocate back to the East Coast after 10 years living in the Bay Area creating strange music and software at Stanford and smule.com. He has accepted a faculty position at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) in Troy, NY as an Assistant Professor of Music and Media. The trip back East will be more crowded than the one going West, after gaining a wife (Chryssie) and a precocious now 7-year old (Miltos).
Patrick Shanahan moved to England where a group chat with Matt Noel, Dan Leibovitz, Dan Hinckle almost ‘92, and Kevin Shanahan ‘93 has continued for three years. They discuss the Phillies pitching, Chip Kelly’s impact on the Eagles, how long a pant leg should be, and other fascinating topics.
1993 CLASS AGENT NEEDED
25
th
Ben Prusky reports that about half of their class attended the 25th reunion at 30 Main in Berwyn during Alumni Weekend. He shared that everyone had an awesome time catching up and that the class created the world’s greatest slideshow for the reunion.
Rob Hamilton reports that he will 54
Connections
Reunion Year
May 4 & 5, 2018
David Simmonds shares that life is good in sunny central Texas! He and Claire have been married for twenty years this month, and their kids are both in middle school (at a fellow
Episcopal school in Austin). Claire is a high school administrator, and David owns a commercial real estate company. Family and work keep them busy but happy. TJ Carella began a new job last fall at New York City-based, private equity firm Warburg Pincus where he is a partner and responsible for healthcare investing. He is still living in Greenwich, CT with his wife, Courtenay, and their girls Ainsley, age 10, Devon, age 8, and Graceyn, age 5. He is also still holding on to his soccer playing days by recently joining an over-40 travel team in town, much to the amusement of his wife and girls. It is very rare for him to return home from a game without an injury of one form or another! Betsy Williams is living in Washington, DC with her husband, Tom Moore, and their two daughters, Eleanor and Madeleine. Betsy and Tom met in Liberia where Betsy continues to work through her new organization, Emerging Public Leaders, which is building the next generation of civil service leaders. Betsy and Tom see Chris Marvin and his family regularly since they live around the corner and the school bus stops in front of their house.
1994 CLASS AGENTS: Tema (Fallahnejad) Burkey, Anna (Morgan) Cassidy, Coryell McIlvain) Urban, & Sarah (Glick) Johnson
Tara (Stitchberry) Prakash and husband Bipin and are thrilled to announce the birth of their daughter, Saaya, on Feburay 18, 2017. Tara is the Director of Leadership Giving at Baldwin and lives in King of Prussia.
IT’S A NEW YEAR!
Class Notes
Our school’s fiscal year began on July 1, and we hope you will consider making a gift to The Episcopal Fund this year. These funds help us bridge the gap between our operating expenses and tuition revenue. Your gift will help us fund experiential learning excursions, technology in our classrooms, supplies for our arts and athletics programs, and so much more. Visit episcopalacademy.org/givenow to make your gift.
CLASS AGENTS: Brooke (Doherty) Horgan & Katie Kurz
Spike Eskin and wife Valerie just celebrated their dog’s third birthday by teaching him to walk on two legs. He’s mastered it! Tema (Fallahnejad) Burkey, husband Adam, and their four boys, Jasper (13), Silas (11), Wyatt (9), and Townes (6) are well-settled in their new home on Mercer Island in WA. The boys love school, their friends, and are playing sports year-round, rain or shine! Tema joined Mercer Island Law Group as a Partner, specializing in employment litigation, in January 2017. Tema joined the Board of the Mercer Island Schools Foundation in June 2016, and she is an active member of the Mercer Island Chamber of Commerce. Tema maintains her role as President of the Mary E. Groff Charitable Trust, a Radnor-based 501c3, and returns to the Philadelphia area often for Trustee meetings and to visit friends and family! Bob Bishop, Hon. and Sally Bishop, Hon. report, “We went to Marina Del Rey, California to meet our new granddaughter, Margot LeBoutillier Bishop, who was born on May 18, 2017, daughter of Benjamin and his wife, Linden.”
Amy Blescia and her husband, Bill Cascarina, welcomed a son, John Franco, on December 22, 2015. Johnny joins big sister Lauren and big brother William. Amy and her family reside in Havertown, PA. Amy is the Assistant Director of Teacher Recruitment for Mastery Charter Schools and her husband is the principal at St. Frances Cabrini in West Philadelphia.
Jonathan “Jobey” Hollinger reports that six-month old Greta Beatrice Hollinger is growing quickly and is looking forward to spending even
more time with grandfather Chip Hollinger, Hon. now that he has retired from Episcopal!
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1995
Katie Kurz reports, “In February, I worked as a volunteer journalist at The Reporter in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia and caught up with classmate Larisa Warhol for a long weekend. Larisa lives a quick flight away in Nanyuki, Kenya (three hours by car from Nairobi). Larisa and I visited the (unofficial) Eighth Wonder of the World—Lalibela, Ethiopia. We loved experiencing the eleven, rock-hewn monolithic churches from the 12th century in person. We also traveled to see the historic city called Gondar. Ethiopia is a remarkable and unique African country with a fascinating history and a diverse culture, filled with traditions unlike anywhere else in the world.”
Katie Kurz and Jamie Kretchmar met up in Paris while Katie was there running the Paris Marathon. Summer 2017
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1996 CLASS AGENT: Mike McKeon Gail (Grandbois) Burr and husband Matt brought Holden John Burr home in June 2016, joining his three-year-old sister, Paige. They live in Concord, MA near her brother, Gil, and his family.
Seth Lejune and his wife, Allie, have two children, Jane Lejune, born on June 9, 2011, and Benjamin Lejune, born on August 15, 2013.
1999 CLASS AGENTS: Andrew Addis & Catherine (Hunt) Ryan
Katie (Gregg) Padrez and husband Ryan welcomed their third child, Grace, in October 2016. She joins older brother Henry (2) and sister Lucy (4). Katie has been working as a primary care pediatrician for the past four years at Palo Alto Medical Foundation. Her husband, Ryan, is also a pediatrician. They just settled into a new home in Menlo Park, CA in June 2017, and they say life is good!
Sarah Smith lives in Los Angeles, where she works in Corporate Strategy for AECOM, a global infrastructure company. She and her partner, Casey, welcomed their baby Robin into the world on January 30, 2017. Sarah says, “He’s a dreamboat!” Tripper Hecksher and his wife, Brittany, announce the birth of their second child, Bradley Ann Heckscher, born on January 10, 2017.
2000s 2000 CLASS AGENTS: Jack Meyers & Kimmy (Gardner) Reinking
1998 CLASS AGENT: Katie (Harmer) Leubecker
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Reunion Year
May 4 & 5, 2018 DJ Gregory and wife Kehau welcomed their first child, daughter Luca Nohealani, on March 26, 2017. Katherine Frank married Ryan Schock on February 25, 2017. Many classmates were present for the celebration. Pictured from L to R: Elizabeth (Leedy) Krick, Katherine (Frank) Schock, Alexis (Petrosa) Sommers, Melanie Adelberg, Jennifer (Sharpless) Pimlett, and Danielle Guernsey.
Reid Smith and his wife, Moira, present McHale Rambo Smith, born on February 28, 2017.
Theo Schell-Lambert and wife Zoe welcomed their second son, Quentin, on May 12, 2017. Big brother, Crosby, is enjoying preschool at St. George’s in New Orleans. Cheo Scott has been nominated to serve on the CFA Society of Washington, DC Board of Directors. Maura (Cannon) Dick with her son, Billy, and her mother, Kathleen Cannon, former EA staff. 56
Connections
Jeff Porter and wife Alexis welcomed their second son, Crosby James Porter, on November 22, 2016.
CLASS AGENTS: Sarah Baker, Evan Coughenour, Drew Crockett, & Pete Tedesco
Mark Kendall was awarded a 2016 Pew Fellowship in the Arts. His experimental documentary films reflect on, as he says, “the everyday conditions of our everyday lives” in ways that bring together the physical, sensuous, and perceptual with the intellectual. His feature directorial debut, La Camioneta, premiered at the 2012 SXSW Film Festival, and was selected as a New York Times Critic’s Pick.
2003 CLASS AGENTS: Julia Crawford, Caroline Cuckler & Ann (Imbesi) Ware
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Class Notes
2001
Reunion Year
May 4 & 5, 2018
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Jennie (Jackson) Walter and her husband, Russell had their first child, Nora Grace Walter, on May 31, 2017. Proud grandpop is Drew Jackson ’63.
2002 Michael Kochan and Alexandra Sadvari welcomed their second son, Jackson, on April 1, 2017. Jack and brother Will are already inseparable. The family lives in Toronto, where Alex is an environmental lawyer and Mike is a principal with Bain & Company.
Jaclene Ashford married Steve Ball on April 7, 2017. In attendance were bridesmaids Sheena James and Mikhal Monson. Jaclene and her husband reside in Montgomery County. They work for a financial firm where she serves as a Vice President.
Mark Juliano and Nickole welcomed their first child, Cameron Juliano, on October 28, 2016.
CLASS AGENTS: Kevin Dugan & Tim Mahoney
Brian Long was presented the Young Alumni award by The Episcopal Academy Alumni Society at this year’s Alumni Awards ceremony. The award recognizes him for demonstrating exemplary qualities in mind, body, and spirit within 15 years of graduation from the school.
Dave Morris was married to Annie Phillips on June 17, 2016 at Old St. Joseph’s Church in Philadelphia.
Margaux Viola was presented the Young Alumni award by The Episcopal Academy Alumni Society at this year’s Alumni Awards ceremony. The award recognizes her for demonstrating exemplary qualities in mind, body, and spirit within 15 years of graduation from the school.
Brett Meyers was presented the Young Alumni Spirit Award by The Episcopal Academy Alumni Society at this year’s Alumni Awards ceremony. The award recognizes him for his loyalty, service, and devotion to the school’s alumni events. Summer 2017
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2004 CLASS AGENTS: Nick Brown & Mike Ciccotti
Lydia Williams reports, “I got married on October 29, 2016 at Merion Golf Course. Actually, Reverend Tim Morehouse (the former chaplain/ religion teacher at EA, Merion Campus) married my husband, Parry Sorensen, and me! We reconnected in NYC where he’s now the Head Chaplain at Trinity School. Four of my oldest and closest EA friends were there: Margaux Viola, Emily Clark, Martha Kelley, and Jason Brown. Picture from our rehearsal dinner at Merion Cricket Club. It was a truly wonderful weekend and truly a treat to have all my family and friends in my home area.”
Jason Eskin reports it has been a super exciting time for him and his brand. His Groupon app for pets is now in beta, and he has been using Instagram a lot. 58
Connections
Ashley Battista married Anthony Ridolfi in Philadelphia on April 1, 2017. EA alums in attendance were Caitlin Gondek, Heather & Jake McKeon, Fred Capp, FJ Leto, Bill Tierney, Leland Laury, Justin Leake, Michael Contino, Andrew Chipego, Zosia Harkins, and Matthew Sutton. Sydney Battista ’11 served as Maid of Honor.
Alison (Murray) Burkett (pictured above with her brother, a fellow EA Hall of Famer, Adam Murray ‘02) and Erik Burkett are happy to announce the arrival of their daughter, Mia Nancy Burkett. She was born February 14, 2017 and made her first visit to EA on May 6 when Alison was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame. During her time at EA, Alison earned 13 varsity letters in four sports, including two as an 8th grader. She was co-winner of the senior class outstanding athlete award, winner of the Inter-Ac League
Aimee Willard Award, and named All Inter-Ac in three sports. She played on four Inter-Ac Championship teams, was twice named All American in lacrosse, and was named area-wide soccer player of the year.
Sam Rogers is living outside DC in Falls Church, VA with wife Veronica and daughters Ava (4) and Maddie (2). When he is not a Technical Instructor for a nearby software company, he throws a mean tea party with his girls on the finest family heirloom FisherPrice tea sets.
Lateef Cannon and his wife, Jen, are proud to announce the birth of their first child, Caden Russell Cannon, born on January 6, 2017. Proud grandmom is Sue Cannon, Hon. Ashley (Eyre) West is excited to be moving back to the Main Line (Haverford) with husband Addison West ‘97.
Paul Barrett and Rebecca Barrett welcomed their son, Charlie Barrett, on January 25, 2017.
2006
2008
CLASS AGENTS: Armena Ballard & Kelsey (Reinhard) Cox
CLASS AGENTS: Heather Hayes & Brian Young
Class Notes
Kendra Johanson married Brinton Nicolai, a Lower Merion grad, in Merion, PA on May 13, 2017.
2005
Matthew Carrington began a career teaching mathematics at the University of South Carolina-Beaufort. His wife, Rebecca, is a high school guidance counselor at a Montessori school. Their oldest son, Sheldon, will be entering the fifth grade this year and their youngest, Grayson, just had his first birthday.
Jen D’Angelo recently finished her job writing for the final two seasons of Workaholics on Comedy Central. She is now writing for a new show, LA to Vegas, which will premiere on FOX in 2018. In February, she married Lucas Koppel. In attendance were classmates Alexa Marymor and Sarah Steele. Matthew Ebert graduated in the spring with a Ph.D. in Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Physics from University of Wisconsin-Madison. Wayne Ellington and his wife, Safie Ellington, announce the birth of their first son, Wayne Robert Ellington, III, born on March 23, 2017.
2007 CLASS AGENTS: Megan McFarland, Shane Isdaner, & Annie Spofford
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Reunion Year
November 2017
Amy Rea was engaged to Alexander Thompson-McManus ’06 in Venice in April 2017. A 2017 wedding is planned.
Caroline Komlo will begin medical school at Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia this summer as a member of the Class of 2021!
Send us your news! Visit episcopalacademy.org/classnotes.
CLASS AGENTS: Packy McCormick & Nick Morris
Kevin DiSilvestro was married to Jessica Nicole Buck on June 3, 2017. In attendance were L to R: Alex Busby, Christy (DiSilvestro) Rivard ’10, Kevin, Rev. Squire, Hon., Ashley DiSilvestro ’06, and David Fell. Kevin graduated from University of Maryland School of Medicine and has begun residency for Orthopaedic Surgery at Brown University. Ben Jones graduated from Tulane University School of Medicine in May and is currently working as an Internal Medicine intern and resident at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia. Loren Mead has finished his first year at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, where he plans to seek an MD/MBA. Brian Young reports that after three years of working in the EA Development Office and coaching EA rowing, he has spent the last two years working as a commercial real estate broker for Cushman & Wakefield in Philadelphia. Brian helps companies with their leasing and acquisition of office space in the Philadelphia region and nationally. He lives in South Philadelphia with his wife, Laura, and their dog, Casey. Summer 2017
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2010s
2009 CLASS AGENTS: Erin Flynn & Caroline Hanamirian
2010 CLASS AGENTS: Steph Bernabei, Lauren Berry, & Kirsten Petrocelli
played a pivotal role in the team’s advancement to the Final Four. Jon won 10 of 14 face-offs during the finals of the men’s NCAA Lacrosse Championship to help the University of Maryland beat Ohio State and win the coveted Championship for the first time since 1975. Jon was named Player of the Game.
2013 CLASS AGENTS: James Costalas & Megan Kilcullen
Sarah Mehalick was engaged to Ben Batha in January 2017. An October 2018 wedding in Malvern, PA is planned. Miguel Acevedo will enter graduate school at Boston University in fall of 2017 to study mechanical engineering. Harry Nimoityn graduated from Georgetown University Law Center.
2012 CLASS AGENT: Brian Metzler Kraig Lunkenheimer married his college sweetheart, Kaitlin Keller, on November 5, 2016 in Santa Barbara, CA. In attendance were Ashley Lunkenheimer ‘92, Kurt Lunkenheimer ‘95, Brooke Owens ‘98, Keith Lunkenheimer ‘06, and classmates from 2009: John Bernhardt, Kate Gadsden, Julian Jowise, Isaac Loftus, Graham McConnell, Dylan Mullen, Olivia Mullen, and Julian Rodriguez.
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Reunion Year November 2017
Allie Hahn Graduated from Tulane University School of Medicine and will be starting residency in General Surgery at the Ochsner Clinic Foundation in July. Bob Wassell threw his fourth annual “Grads Give Back” in Wilmington, NC in May. The event has raised over $2,000 for the Wilmington Children’s Museum. 60
Connections
Jon Garino was a face-off specialist for the University of Maryland. He
Doug Trimble and Burk Fitzpatrick ’12, University of Delaware baseball players, played Texas Tech University in the first round of NCAA baseball tournament in June. It was the first time the Blue Hens advanced to the NCAA Baseball Championships since 2001. Trimble was selected for the All-CAA 2nd team.
2014 CLASS AGENT: Jack Keffer
was named to the team after his college nominated him based on his exemplary sportsmanship. Hinckley has a total 136 points and has started 19 games for Dickinson.
Class Notes
a degree in Finance with Honors. She is now working as a registered investment advisor at First Financial Networks and studying for her CFP and to become a Registered Securities Principal.
2016 CLASS AGENT NEEDED
Meghan Hubley, a four-year starter and team captain, was a key defender for Navy and helped lead her team to the NCAA Women’s Lacrosse Final Four. Meghan led the team in groundballs (42) and caused turnovers (24) this season. Hubley has played in 76 games with 61 starts during her Navy career. Leslie Williams recently graduated from Carnegie Mellon University with
Brianna Belo, American University runner, set four school records during the indoor track and field season. Brianna set school records in the 500m dash (1:12.63), 800m run (2:11.41), and 1000m run (2:50.90). She was also named Athlete of the Week for AU in April.
2015 CLASS AGENT NEEDED Mike Hinckley was named to the 2016-17 Centennial Conference All-Sportsmanship Team for men’s basketball. A first-year guard and forward at Dickinson College, Mike
Send us your news! Visit episcopalacademy.org/classnotes.
Silicia Lomax recently traveled to China to do research on the effects of water contamination on the neurodevelopment of children.
Chris Stein, Claire Smith, Christina Chambers, Wilson Smerconish, Nina Pagano, Jack Brinker, David Rinnier ’09, and Meghan McCormick ’07 returned to campus to serve as judges for this spring’s MacBean Bowl. Christian Feliziani is a midfielder for Ohio State. The Buckeyes advanced to the National Championship for the first time in the program’s history this year.
Annual gifts to The Episcopal Fund greatly impact the student experience. From helping to fund technology in our classrooms, to field trips, to supplies for our arts and athletics programs, a gift of any size makes a difference. Give today at episcopalacademy.org/givenow or search “Episcopal Academy” on Venmo.
Summer 2017
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Milestones MARRIAGES ’97 Julie Manser to Francis Miller, 6/2/17
’04 Kendra Johanson to Brinton Nicolai, 5/13/17
’00 Katherine Frank to Ryan Schock, 2/25/17
’06 Jen D’Angelo to Lucas Koppel, 2/18/17
’01 Jaclene Ashford to Steve Ball, 4/7/17
’06 Trevor McGuinness to Ashley Stewardson, 5/6/17
’02 David Morris to Annie Phillips, 6/16/16
’08 Kevin DiSilvestro to Jessica Nicole Buck, 6/3/17
’03 Lydia Williams to Parry Sorensen, 10/29/16
’09 Ryan Klein to Regina Zolbrod, 5/27/17
’04 Ashley Battista to Anthony Ridolfi, 4/1/17
’09 Kraig Lunkenheimer to Kaitlin Keller, 11/5/16
BIRTHS ’60 George David & Wendy David: George Theodore David, 12/4/16
’99 Tripper Heckscher & Brittany Heckscher: Bradly Ann Heckscher, 1/10/17
’91 Matt Michael & Jean Michael: Vincent Henry Michael, 3/17/17
’99 Sarah Smith & Casey Mott: Robin Mott, 1/30/17
’94 Benjamin Bishop & Linden Bishop: Margot LeBoutillier Bishop, 5/18/17 ’94 Tara (Stitchberry) Prakash & Bipin Prakash: Saaya Prakash, 2/18/17 ’95 Amy Blescia & Bill Cascarina: John Franco Cascarina, 12/22/15 ’96 Gail (Grandbois) Burr & Matt Burr: Holden John Burr, 6/16
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’00 Gayle (Laakman) McDowell & John McDowell: Davis McDowell, 7/10/13, Tobin McDowell, 10/23/15 ’00 Theo Schell-Lambert & Zoe Vandeveer: Quentin Schell-Lambert, 5/12/17 ’01 Michael Kochan & Alexandra Sadvari: Jackson Kochan, 4/1/17 ’01 Mark Juliano & Nickole Juliano: Cameron Juliano, 10/28/16
’96 Jeremy Lejune & Christy Lejune: Luke Lejune, 8/13/13
’01 Jennie (Jackson) Walter & Russell Walter: Nora Grace Walter, 5/31/17
’96 Katie (Gregg) Padrez & Ryan Padrez: Grace Padrez, 10/28/16, Henry Padrez, 11/9/14
’03 Liz (Kelly) Varani & Andrew Varani: Theo Kelly Varani, 2/21/17
’97 Sam Brown & Jenny Johnson: Adler Birch Brown, 5/30/17
’04 Alison (Murray) Burkett & Eric Burkett: Mia Burkett, 2/14/17
’97 Chas Peruto & Puja Peruto: Kush Alexander Peruto, 6/28/16
’04 Paul Barrett & Rebecca (Cox) Barrett ’04: Charlie Barrett, 1/25/17
’98 Seth Lejune & Allie Lejune: Jane Lejune, 6/9/11, Benjamin Lejune, 8/15/13
’05 Matthew Carrington & Rebeecca Carrington: Sheldon Carrington, 5/22/07 & Grayson Carrington, 6/20/16
’99 DJ Gregory & Kehau Gregory: Luca Nohealani Gregory, 3/26/17
’06 Wayne R. Ellington, Jr. & Safie Ellington: Wayne Robert Ellington, III, 3/23/17
Connections
Milestones
’53 Jacob A. Crellin April 24, 2017
’57 Richardson Dilworth May 25, 2017
’43 Charles W. Hitschler, Jr. May 19, 2017
‘53 William W. Hollenback, Sr. March 27, 2017
’58 Henry F. Wanning, III July 3, 2017
’44 Richard S. Birch, Jr. May 27, 2017
‘54 Robert P. Hundley May 11, 2017
’59 Lowrey Heaver May 22, 2017
’45 Albert A. DiIoia July 18, 2016
’54 H. Ralph Ringe April 18, 2017
’65 John P. Gregg June 1, 2017
’45 Richard Gurley, Jr. November 26, 2016
’55 Frederick C. Haab April 2, 2017
’66 John H. Weber October 19, 2016
‘47 Theodore G. Duncan January 26, 2017
’56 James K. McKinney May 9, 2017
’84 Elizabeth B. Smith June 10, 2017
Send us your news! Visit episcopalacademy.org/classnotes.
‘42 William H. Schumacher February 15, 2013
Class Notes
IN MEMORIAM
Frederick C. Haab ’55 died peacefully on April 2, 2017. Mr. Haab was a member of Episcopal’s Board of Trustees for 24 years and served as Chairman from 1992 through 1999. Recently serving as an emeritus trustee, Mr. Haab also served as president of the Alumni Society and received the Distinguished Alumni Award in 1999. After graduating from Episcopal, he went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in economics at Cornell University and was honorably discharged from the US Army, 1st Lieutenant, 1959-1961, Battalion Adjutant, 35th Artillery, Fort Lewis, WA. His career was with the F. C. Haab Co., Inc., a fuel oil and lubricants distributor founded by his father and headquartered in Philadelphia, where his last title was Chairman of the Board. Mr. Haab also served on many other Boards throughout the region. Known for his integrity, sense of humor, and empathy for others, Mr. Haab was a man of faith, a natural leader, and a family-man through and through. He loved traveling and spending time with family on his farm in St. Michael’s, MD, where he tended to his horses, chickens, bulls, and goats. His late wife, Gabrielle (“Gaby”) Schwarz Haab, passed away in April 2012. They met on a trolley on the way to school, became high school and college sweethearts, and were happily married for almost 53 years. He also found love late in life with his second wife, Judith S. Romig Haab, from 2015 until Judy passed away in December 2016. He is survived by 3 children: F. Christian Haab Jr. ’78 (Ellin Paquette Haab), Meredith deH. Haab (Stephen P. Madjar), and Kurt A. Haab ’82 (Jean Plzak Haab MD ‘84), a sister, Joanna H. Schoff, and 7 grandchildren who all attended Episcopal.
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The Last Word s our graduates prepare for life beyond Episcopal, it seemed fitting to allow them to have The Last Word in our summer issue. We asked a few members of the Class of 2017 to share their thoughts about one of the most important lessons they learned here that they will cherish and take with them.
Through my 13 years at EA, I learned that being yourself and doing what makes you happy will lead you to success in your life. EA gives countless opportunities to their students to find out what they are truly passionate about. From the classroom, to sports, to clubs, to Chapel, EA helped me become a better person, and I am forever grateful for everything the school has done for me. - Alexander McLaughlin
As the winds of change‌transport us to new lives across the country and around the world‌we will remain the Class of 2017‌forever carrying within us all that is the Episcopal Academy: a striving heart and an intrepid spirit; an unwavering belief in the power of kindness, gratitude, generosity and grace; and an abiding faith in all we are able to accomplish when we put forth our fearless best. - Corrine Zanolli (excerpted from her valedictorian address)
As a student of the Episcopal Academy, the most important lesson I have learned is working for the good of others. Whether it be through the canned food drive, or the many volunteering services run by EA, we are taught to strive to give back to our community and those who are in need. - Saliho Toure
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Connections
The Tradition Returns Join us for EA/Haverford/AIS Weekend this fall! Our historic rivalries will return to the EA campus this November! Join us as we take on the Agnes Irwin Owls and the Haverford School Fords during an action-packed weekend. Don’t miss your chance to cheer on the blue and white and reconnect with your EA classmates.
EA/AIS Day: FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10
EA/Haverford Day: SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11
on The Episcopal Academy campus For more information, visit episcopalacademy.org/goEA
The Episcopal Academy 1785 Bishop White Drive Newtown Square, PA 19073-1300 www.episcopalacademy.org ADDRESS SERVICE R EQ UES T ED
SPRING TIME AT EA Lower School students enjoy taking a break from class and spending time outdoors during recess. Photograph by Mark Tassoni