2007 Summer Harker Alumni by The Harker School

Summer 2007 (VOL. 7, NO. 1)

S P E C I A L

A L U M N I

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est. 1893 • K-12 college prep

R E P O R T

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H A R K E R

The Second Annual All Harker Alumni Day and Awards

Class Notes ......................... 2 HAA Award recipients ........... 7 Recent class reunions .......... 8

dates Save these dates and look inside for more detailed information on these and other upcoming Harker events!

October 14, 2007 57th Annual Harker Family and Alumni Picnic February 22, 2008 Annual Harker Fashion Show Fundraiser

May 31, 2008 All Harker Alumni Day and Awards

contact The alumni ofﬁce truly enjoys hearing about all alumni connections and memories. Contact us when you have things to share! terryw@harker.org 408.345.9205

S C H O O L

The Harker Alumni Association hosted the second annual All Alumni Day & Awards on Sat., June 2 at the Saratoga campus. Alumni attending the event spanned the years from the early 1950s to the current young alums of 2007 and represented The Harker School, Harker Academy, Palo Alto Military Academy and Harker Day School. Alumni director Terry Walsh was not surprised to find there was a common topic that connected the alumni from all the years and all the schools – education is the key to success. “I heard

so many comments from alumni who felt they truly owed their success to the education received at one of our schools. Alumni spoke with fondness of solid foundations, core values, striving for perfection,

The festivities began when alumni checked in at the gym and received nametags with colored ribbons that identified the school they attended. The gym was filled with displays of photos and memorabilia organized by graduation year as well as special displays for Palo Alto Militar y Academy, Harker Day School and Miss Harker’s School. Harker archivist Susan Smith hosted the “old school” tables and said she loved hearing the memories of alums who shared their stories with her. PAMA and Harker Academy alumnus Brian Welch ’75 made a big sensation by bringing along his former Harker Academy cadet uniform to donate to the Harker archives. The uniform remained on display for the rest of the day and will be stored in the archives and brought out at future alumni events. Smith also enjoyed connecting with Harker Day alumna Carol Beattie ’65, whose brother,

Alumni spoke with fondness of solid foundations, core values, striving for perfection, being responsible, developing leadership skills and much more… being responsible, developing leadership skills and much more, along with maintaining a strict academic curriculum and involvement in a wide variety of extracurricular activities. I was overwhelmed with all the good memories I heard that day,” said Walsh. The Harker Alumni Association (HAA) established this annual event in 2006 to provide our alumni with an occasion to return to campus and reconnect with former classmates and teachers and to meet other alumni and Harker friends and supporters. The day offers the opportunity to relish past memories and create new ones, and to meet and network with our large and diverse group of alumni.

Robin Beattie ’66, attended PAMA. “I loved hearing her memories of being at the Harker Day School while her brother attended PAMA. I think they are a rare family to have siblings at two of our predecessor schools,” said Smith. Beattie has some video footage of the May Day parade, sixth grade graduation, PAMA award ceremonies and more that she plans to view with Smith at a later date where Smith can also record some of Beattie’s memories for our archives. Alumni wandered around the campus on self-guided tours, and for those who attended school at the Saratoga campus there was Continued on Pg. 6

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notes

PA Jack Carli reconnected with Harker via a phone call to alumni director Terry Walsh. Carli doesn’t use the Internet, so several phone calls and several mailings have been

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Harker archives. He lives in Happy Valley, Ore. HD Stuart S. Howard-Smith lives in West Palm Beach, Fla., and came across the Harker Web site. He enjoyed seeing the roster of students who attended Harker Day School. He wrote, “I still sometimes think about a few of my old classmates including Renee Zipser, Lori Black, Craig Watkins and Diane Hutchins. Now that I look at the list I am surprised at just how many of these kids I still remember! It has been 42 years after all. It would be fun to hear what happened to everyone.”

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involved with this connection. Carli has some priceless memories of PAMA and Walsh has enjoyed talking with him. Copies were made of brochures from Camp Eldorado and PAMA and sent to Carli so he could take a trip down memor y lane. He recently sent some letters from the early 1940s written by Major Donald Nichols and a photo of himself in PAMA uniform. The alumni office and Harker archives will continue to stay in contact with Carli. He lives in Santa Rosa with his wife, Lucille. They will celebrate their 59th wedding anniversar y in July. PA Wade Wallace sent some detailed memories of his time at PAMA. “I was at PAMA for two years only, but it was an experience I will never forget. My homeroom teachers were Harry Kettman for Gr. 8 and Mrs. MacDonald for Gr. 9. My graduating classmates were, as much as I can remember, Von Husen, Richard Craig, John Devencenzi, Don Burtz, George Westerman, Lenard Wilson and Ted Ebert, and the commandant was Captain Lawrence Torcellini.” Wallace has promised to try to coordinate a visit when he is in the area to attend a Sharks game.

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PA Dan Trayler sent some digital photos from his scrapbook to add to the

HD Bridget Honan found the alumni Web site and had fun looking through the names and photos. She sent some names of former classmates and teachers to the alumni ofﬁce, which will be helpful in piecing together class rosters for each year. She remembers Carrie and Chip Hunter, Chantal Rose, Tina Romano, Lori Black and Gr. 5 teacher Mrs. Helen Priest, Gr. 6 teacher Mrs. Moss, P.E. teacher Mrs. Daly, and the principal, Mrs. Williams. HD Jon Craig reconnected

Harker via e-mail. “I ’66 with would love to see some

photographs of the school that was located in Palo Alto. I have the fondest memories of my very brief two years there. I have the most vivid and wonderful memories of the home and campus, from watching John Glenn rocket into space from the living room to the beautiful holiday parties. I recall the station wagon with the third-row seat – they were way ahead of their time!” HD Marc Schoenberger attended Harker Day School and sent some great memories via e-mail to the alumni director. “I remember

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sneaking up to the third floor many times to look around at the old stuff that was kept up there. Just to the right of the larger center room with the old sports stuff in it was a small room that had all the school photos from 1902 on. They were wonder ful, such pageantr y, and oh, those May poles! I’m sad to hear that they are lost. I miss that grand old building. Thanks for a wonder ful education!” Shoenberger lives in Grover Beach, Calif., and you can check out the ukuleles he makes at www.ukiyoukuleles.com. Schoenberger is not the only one with wonderful memories of the beautiful buildings and grounds at both of the Palo Alto campuses. Alums often write about their favorite memories of some aspect of the campus. The alumni office would love to borrow (and return) any photos of either campus to scan to have in our archives and to share on the alumni Web site. PA William Baker checked in with Harker, and after receiving some past copies of the alumni notes he shared some memories with alumni director Terry Walsh via e-mail. Baker is still in contact with his former roommate, Jim Holt ’70, and remembers the names of ﬁve more people in their Gr. 9 PAMA graduating class: Bruce Sutherland, Dennis Woolsey, John Brooks, Charles Stephenson and Glen Rodgers. Baker said he still has the Senior Will from the PAMA Class of 1970. He is an attorney and lives in San Bruno. PA Larry Steinberg contacted the alumni office prompting several e-mail exchanges with alumni director Terry Walsh, who wanted more of his special memories. Here are some excerpts from his e-mail notes.

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“While not a graduate, I did attend as a boarding student when I was 8 and 9 years old. I remember Howard and Major Nichols in 1962 and 1963. The place made a profound impression on me, which is still with me. The housemothers I believe were Miss Milford and Brady. There was no TV except at Manzanita Hall. Manzanita was where all the grown-up stuff hap-

pened. I learned how to read and spell in three months or less, which impressed my family greatly. I was a Mighty Midget.” “I am sure about the years I was at PAMA as the memories of that 22nd of November, 1963 are as clear as if they happened yesterday. I’ll never forget where I was when President Kennedy was assassinated. You mentioned Captain Torcellini – he was a very kind man who I certainly remember. Stanley Sasso was one of my roommates during my first year. I’ll never forget getting my name painted on the wall of the hall I lived in. I remember an older boy named Jimmy or James Nunally. I did not enlist nor was I drafted in to the Vietnam War as the draft ended months before my 18th birthday. Nevertheless I always felt I had done my time in the military because of my experience at PAMA.” After receiving some past editions of the Harker alumni notes and a “From the Archives” supplement, Steinberg replied with some more memories. “I remember every one of the Dubbs as they were all there when I was. And I will never forget Charles Black and meeting his mom, Shirley Temple Black, and the fatherson dinners at Ricky’s Hyatt House. It all comes flooding back. It was a different world!” The alumni office and Harker are eager to get a visit from Steinberg! PA Brian Welch sent an e-mail to the alumni office in response to a request for memorabilia and help with identifying photos. “I would enjoy looking through whatever you have available needing identification;

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HISTORICAL LEGEND MN Manzanita Hall 1893-1919 MH Miss Harker School 1904-1959 PA

Palo Alto Military Academy 1919-1972

HD Harker Day School 1959-1972 HA Harker Academy 1973-1992 HS The Harker School 1993-Present

Harker News — Summer 07, Alumni Supplement

Alumni Visitors Always Welcome! Alumni are encouraged to stop by any of the Harker campuses to see the changes and visit with former teachers and staff. If you would like a tour or to meet with some specific staff, it is best to call ahead for an appointment. But if you happen to be in the area, it is okay to stop by; upon arrival, check in at the front desk. If you visit the Saratoga campus, be sure to stop by the alumni office in Manzanita Hall to see the photos and memorabilia on display.

those years are still quite clear in my memory. I also recently discovered one of my old dress uniforms which I would be happy to donate if it would be helpful.” PA and HA Chris Wilson attended PAMA in Gr. 5 and then made the move to Harker Academy for grades 6 and 7 before his parents relocated to Sacramento. He has fond memories and photos from his time at both schools. He attended the All Alumni Day & Awards and had a chance to look through lots of photos and memorabilia.

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Joy Aliason Younes checked in via e-mail. She said she studied abroad in Vienna, Austria, where she met her husband of 19 years. They have three children and live in Saratoga. HA Jeff Ohlfs reconnected with Harker by planning to attend the June 2 alumni event in hopes to catch up with some of his former classmates for a 30-year reunion. Ohlfs is a district ranger at Joshua Tree National Park.

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HA Jennifer Powell recently reconnected via e-mail with former classmate Jeff Ohlfs about plans for their 30-year class reunion. She said, “I am living in Newcastle near Sacramento. I have two children, Samantha, age 13 and Malcolm, age 11, and we live on a lovely piece of land that is on the Auburn Ravine River. I home school my children and work part time from home.” HA Dave Trieckel checked in with the alumni office and said he has

enjoyed living in Scottsdale and Phoenix, Ariz., for the past 27 years. HA Todd Fisher received his B.S. in mathematics from Pepperdine University and checks in from Irvine where he is a senior programmer at ClinDatrix, Inc.

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HA Sean Rositano recently discovered in his files a compilation of student sentiments presented to Alice Williams when she retired. He checked in at the alumni Web site and wrote, “It was fun coming across the site and thinking about Harker!” Rositano lives in Gilroy and is the president and CEO of Gryphon Financial Group, Inc.

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HA Adam Mead Faletti and Gordon Schwenk reconnected via the new Harker alumni Web page. Both checked in to receive their registration IDs for access to the Web site within a few days of each other and each asked about the other when they checked in. Schwenk is a graphic designer and lives in Renton, Wash., and Faletti is in the music and entertainment business and lives in Santa Monica.

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HA Joelle Aulet Collins checked in from El Dorado Hills, Calif., where she is a real estate agent.

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HA Dana Luri recently traveled with a friend to Africa. “I have been having an incredible time here in Zululand – seeing three of the “Big Five” – white rhinos, elephants and buffalo. We hope to see the cats on the next part of our journey to Kruger National Park. We have seen so much. We went to St. Lucia and swam in the Indian Ocean – fantastic,” said Lurie. She has more travel plans in June to Peru and Easter Island and wrote to say she was sorry to be missing her class reunion and the alumni event.

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HA Sara Lundgaard Slocum received her B.A. in biology from Pomona College, M.S. in toxicology and pharmacology from U.C. Davis, and D.D.S. from the University of the Pacific in San Francisco. She did her residency at the University of Washington and recently she and her husband opened their own dental practice (www.pennycreek.net) in Seattle. They have two sons, Tren-

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Harker News — Summer 07, Alumni Supplement

ton (4-and-a half years) and Troy (2 years). “Life is good! We love the Northwest,” she added. The alumni office recently reconnected Slocum with Tiffany Vandeweghe Cleary and Becky Davis Flanagan. HA Matthew Douglas is currently living in the U.K. and is a consultant with HealthSystems Consultants Ltd.

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HA R. Todd Gafford reconnected with the alumni ofﬁce via e-mail. He registered on the alumni Web site and is currently living in Mountain House, Calif., where he is a developer support supervisor for eSignal in Hayward. He is married and has a 7-year-old daughter and an 18year-old stepson, along with a cat and three Chihuahuas. HA Johanna de Wit Rosato checked in from Garden City, N.Y. She looked forward to checking out the alumni Web site and possibly reconnecting with some of her former classmates. HA Mike Olsen registered and checked out the new alumni Web site. He hopes that more alumni from ’85 will use the site to reconnect with each other. Olsen lives in Goldsboro, N.C. and has kept in touch with John Owens.

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HA Benjamin Jennings received his B.A. in political science and history with a minor in studio art from Santa Clara University. He checked in with the alumni office after finding his name on the “lost alumni” roster for his class. Jennings is a managing director at SERVICESOURCE (www.servicesource.com) in San

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Francisco. He forwarded the Web site information to two classmates also on the list, Andrea Cu and Thabyay Aye, to encourage them to update their records. HA Andrea Cu received her B.S. at U.C. Berkeley and her M.B.A. from Haas School of Business, U.C. Berkeley. She is the director of finance at Pacific Property Company in San Francisco. She is still in contact with Ben Jennings and Thabyay Aye. HA Kaanji Irby checked in from Nutley, N.J. She is an attorney with DLA Piper US LLP in New York City.

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HA Olivier Galgani received his B.A. in English from Santa Clara University and is currently a production manager at Berger Manufacturing (www.bmf.com). HA Becky Grider recently updated her contact information. Grider is a registered nurse in surgery at Memorial Healthcare System in Springfield, Ill. HA Shyam Panchal was recently hired by Stanford School of Medicine as the clinical project manager reporting to the chief of interventional radiology. Panchal’s areas of expertise include clinical trial design and conduct. He has been involved with clinical operations, research and trial development since 1998 when he served as a clinical microbiologist and histologist aide at O’Connor Hospital. From 2004 to 2007, he was the lead clinical database architect for three global clinical trials at Abbott Laboratories:

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We’d Love Your Old Stuff! Check your attics and closets to see if you or your parents have saved anything from your days at PAMA, Miss Harker School, Harker Day School or Harker Academy. The Harker Archives is interested in uniforms, pins, brochures, newsletters, trophies, event programs, photos and other memorabilia. If you have something you think may be of interest to us, please contact either our archivist Sue Smith at suesmith@harker.org or Terry Walsh, alumni director, at terryw@harker.org.

notes

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ished rural farmers. Howard will be working to make this an effective and self-sustaining organization for the next five years, returning to the U.S. for only a few months each year for fundraising. “I’m confident everyone at Harker is still thriving and I look forward to eventually finding my way to a Harker reunion,” said Howard.

“Providing Regional Observations to Study Predictors of Events in the Coronary Tree” (PROSPECT), a vulnerable plaque study; “ABSORBFIM,” a study on the bioabsorbable coronary stent; and “SPIRIT-V,” a post-marketing study for XIENCE V CE. Panchal is not new to Stanford – in 1999 he served as an emergency room assistant for Stanford Emergency Services, and from 2000 to 2004, he worked as the clinical research associate for the comparative and clinical studies of the cardiac transplant population in the division of cardiovascular medicine.

HS Irene Altman was the project manager at U.C. Santa Barbara for a study called “Aligning School Finance with Academic Standards: A WeightedStudent Formula Based on a Survey of Practitioners.” The study was released to the public in March and written about in the San Francisco Chronicle. The technical report or the study summary can be viewed at http://irepp.stanford.edu/projects/cafinance-studies.htm.

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HA Jacob Pessah received

B.A. in anthropology ’92 his from U.C. Santa Barbara.

He is the senior project manager of Operations Vendor management at WageWorks (www.wageworks.com) and lives in San Mateo. Pessah updated his e-mail address; he is moving to Barcelona to work on his M.B.A. degree.

HS Elisabeth Brentano received her B.A. in film and digital media from U.C. Santa Cruz. She currently lives in Los Angeles and is working for Entertainment Tonight / The Insider. “I love Southern California and I am enjoying working in the crazy world of television. I hope all is well with everyone at Harker. I can’t believe it’s already been five years!” said Brentano.

HS Ed Minn received his B.S. in economics at Duke University. He checked in to get access to the new alumni Web site and reported that he is currently an M.B.A. candidate at The University of Chicago Graduate School of Business. On March 31, 2007 he married Jana, another first-year M.B.A. student in the same program.

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HS Gabrielle DeMers, graduating this year from USC as a voice major, gave her senior recital on Feb. 16. In attendance were classmates Julia Gitis and Brendan Boland.

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HS Blake Howe graduated from Vassar College with a B.A. in music and German. He is currently in an M.A./Ph.D. program in musicology at the Graduate Center of City University of New York.

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HS Rick Hayashi informed us that he was the student commencement speaker for the Tisch School (NYU) at the graduation ceremonies at Madison Square Garden. HS Kevin Hwang has been named a Merrill Presidential Scholar at Cornell University. The deans of each of the University’s seven colleges award 36 students (about one percent of its graduating class) to be Merrill Scholars. The students then name a high school teacher and a Cornell professor who most influenced their academic development. Hwang named Richard Hartzell, upper school head, who joined Hwang at Cornell for the ceremonies. A one-time $4000 scholarship in Hartzell’s name will be established for a student from the Bay Area to attend Cornell. Hwang was selected from the College of Arts and Sciences, and named a microbiology professor as his Cornell inspiration. HS Jackie Laine returned to campus in March with Northwestern Univer-

to the quarterfinal round (Elite 8) before losing to the second-place finishers from Oklahoma City. “Alex, who qualified for the NDT in each of his four years at USC, has enjoyed one of the most successful careers in USC debate history,” reads USC’s debate Web site. HS Jessica Travis’ update was sent to her former teacher Susan Nace, who shared it with the alumni director. Travis graduated from Santa Clara University in June and is spending some time traveling internationally before moving to San Francisco to start her career in online marketing for Gymboree’s e-commerce division. HS Emma Hawley, a Conservatory Certificate graduate, was awarded the Natalie Wood Acting Award from the School of Theatre, Film and Television at UCLA. The award is based on “artistic merit” and includes $1000 toward tuition. Hawley recently performed the title role in Christopher Durang’s “Sister Mary Ignatius Explains It All For You” for a student directing project at UCLA.

Brian Larsen - both photos

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versity of Southern California. At the 61st annual National Debate Tournament in Dallas, Texas, in April, Iftemie and his partner advanced

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HS Bryan Quinn is currently attending Notre Dame’s M.B.A. program in South Bend, Ind., and is engaged to be married shortly after he graduates from the program in May ’08. His fiancée, Shannon Suedkamp, recently graduated from the University of the Pacific’s doctor of pharmacy program. HS Tevis Howard recently relocated to Kenya where he founded a nonproﬁt organization called KOMAZA. The organization is implementing a tree farming social enterprise to generate cash income for impover-

DeMers was recently involved in the West Coast premiere of “Miss Lonelyhearts.” The opera is the artistic collaboration between composer Lowell Liebermann and J.D. McClatchy, who were at the performances.

USC Web Site

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sity’s Stomp-inspired percussion/ dance group Boomshaka. Laine is the producer of the group. Boomshaka performed at an US assembly and did an afternoon workshop with 20 Conservatory students. Alex Iftimie continues to achieve success as a debater for the Uni-

Submit YOUR class note online today!

www.harker.org Click on alumni tab

Harker News — Summer 07, Alumni Supplement

Alumni College Guides Meet with Juniors Touring East Coast Alumni were on hand at many of the stops made on the US college counselors’ annual East Coast college tour. Some alumni gave tours of their campuses, but many of them just met the group for dinner and casual conversations about college experiences.

with Kathryn Lee, Casey Near, Sherwin Jiang, Sharon Her, Robert Li, Lauren Gutstein, Jason Han, Priya Takiar, Rohini Venkatraman, Boris

Hillary Brooks met the group during their visit to Boston University. At dinner in Boston the juniors met with Yi Sun, Mariah Bush, Karan Lodha, Amanda Polzin, Shawn Huda, Vijay Umapathy and HannShuin Yew. Dinner in Providence brought Michael Kim and Allison Kwong. Several Harker grads attend the University of Pennsylvania, and the travelers connected

tion about Princeton. At Yale, Amira Valliani, Rachel Newman and Yagmur Ilgen gave a tour. Peter Obara, Lisa Schwebke, Mina Lee, Steven Boyle and Candace Chang met the visitors at NYU, and Shilpa Vadodaria joined them at Columbia.

Alistar Grant - all photos

Fedorov, Genna Erlikhman and Nikhil Deshmukh for dinner. Erika Gudmundson and Estelle Charlu represented George Washington University, and Kathleen Sun and Amit Mukherjee provided informa-

HAA Welcomes Newest Alumni at the Annual Senior Alumni Brunch about the life qualities of excellence, integrity, compassion, community and leadership that he took away from Harker and reminded the seniors that as they move on to college and into their careers as Harker alumni

The morning after returning from their senior trip to Laguna Beach, the Class of 2007 gathered on campus for the presentation and dedication of the senior gift and senior bricks, followed by the second annual Senior Alumni Brunch. Harker Alumni Association (HAA) council members were on hand to check in and greet the class as they entered the Saratoga campus gym for the brunch. Alumni director Terry Walsh gave an overview of the day’s schedule and then HAA council president, Shyam Panchal ’89, welcomed the Class of 2007 into the HAA. Panchal spoke

they need to continue learning and living the “Harker way.” He also pointed out that the Class of 2007 was leaving behind a living legacy as their senior gift – the water feature – and had already learned that giving back to Harker is important. Following the welcome, seniors enjoyed their last Harker meal, a

Harker News — Summer 07, Alumni Supplement

delicious buffet brunch, with sparkling cider to toast their accomplishments. The gym was decorated with colorful balloons, lots of photos, displays of yearbooks and memorabilia and TVs running some of their Harker performances. Each senior also received a memory book compiled from teacher and staff memories about the class. Seniors filled out a questionnaire and then spent most of their time signing yearbooks and writing notes to friends, teachers and themselves to put in the ‘07 time capsule.

‘06, Amanda Polzin ’06 and Will Waggoner ’06. Earlier in the morning, the senior class gift was dedicated to teacher Dr. Cheryl Cavanaugh. She joined the seniors as their special guest at their brunch and many students had the chance to get in some visiting with her as she signed stacks of yearbooks placed in front of her. Dr. Cavanaugh passed away on July 11 after a long and brave battle with cancer.

The Senior Alumni Brunch was followed by the College Life Panel. This annual event gives current seniors the chance to ask questions about the college experience in a private session with some of our young alums. This year’s panel was organized by Casey Near ’06 under the guidance of college counselor Kevin Lum Lung. Along with Near, the panel included Candace Chang ’06, Lauren Gutstein ’06, Edward Hejtmanek ’06, Tommy Holford ’06, Kat Hudkins

ALUMNI Continued from Pg. 1 much enjoyment reliving their days of walking down the main hallway, seeing Mr. Nichols’ office, checking out what has become of the dorm building and reminiscing about running laps around the field. The school has grown and changed, but the main “footprint” is still here and the alumni seemed to settle in and feel right at home.

At noon, guests gathered in the quad for the HAA update and award presentations. Walsh greeted the guests and gave a brief update on how happy she is with the progress being made on connecting with our lost alumni. Head of School Chris Nikoloff also welcomed the group and gave an update on Harker. Alumni council president Shyam Panchal ’89 introduced the council and talked about alumni involvement and upcoming alumni events. He then called up representatives from the reunion year classes of 1982 (Keil Albert) and 2002 (Carmen Antoun and Neil Mehta) to assist in the presentation of the inaugural alumni giving check. The oversized check for $10,357, signifying the first official combined alumni contribution to Harker, was graciously accepted on behalf of the Harker community by Harker Board of Trustees Chairman Lon Allan (parent of Margo Allan Caskey ’86 and James Allan ’84). Allan said how exciting it is to be involved with the new Harker Alumni Association, and that he knows the Harker community will see much future success with the

news Alumni Giving Program. Mehta, who spoke on behalf of all alumni, told a stor y of how Executive Director of Advancement Joe Rosenthal taught him the study skills he needed to be accepted and successful at Harker. He vowed at the time that someday he would give back to the school. Mehta is now a graduate of The London School of Economics and has pledged an additional $5,000 to the Alumni Giving Program. The highlight of the event was the presentation of the HAA awards. Retired ar t teacher Margaret Peterson was the recipient of the HAA Phyllis Carley Ser vice Award. Rosenthal, a longtime coworker and friend, gave a warm introduction touching on Peterson’s amazing ar tistic talent, her creativity, knowledge and resourcefulness and ability for getting community exposure to Harker student ar twork. There were binders with photos of the ar twork of Peterson’s former students on display in the gym, so guests could see for themselves what incredible ar twork her students produced. Leena Bhalerao ’02, who has chosen a career in public health, received the HAA Community Ser vice Award, presented to her by Laura Lang-Ree, director of per forming ar ts. Lang-Ree spoke of the common feeling among teachers that the word “grace” best described Bhalerao’s character. “Not only was she a graceful per former, her grace extended to her personal life, as she was known around campus as the one always willing to go the extra mile to help those around her, being suppor tive and helpful wherever it was needed and never hesitating to show her compassion for those in need. It does not surprise me

in the least that she has landed in her current profession where she can use her grace, compassion for others, and beautiful stage presence to teach others as a health educator. What a per fect star t to your professional life!” said Lang-Ree. John Owens ’85, who ser ves the countr y as an assistant U.S. attorney, was awarded the HAA Distinguished Alumni Award by his former teacher, Pat Walsh. Walsh spoke of Owens’ impressive academic abilities as a student, but more impor tantly the way he handled himself, treated others and his sense of integrity and fair play – even at the young age of 10. “I have a little stor y I always recall when I think of John. My buddy Jeff Haugaard was the school counselor at that time and he called me in about one of my students. It seems John had gone in to talk with Jeff – his little brother David (’89) had gotten into trouble and John was pretty distraught about it. He felt responsible and was looking to Mr. Haugaard for help and guidance in the matter. Now I have taught 10- and 11-year-olds for almost 30 years and it’s not the norm to see a fifth grader troubled by his brother’s indiscretions. Part of what we tr y to teach our students besides a little math and English is to think of others and take responsibility. It was clear that this kid came to fifth grade with a pretty

good sense of responsibility and compassion,” said Walsh. Owens accepted the award with thanks to Harker (and some teasing to Walsh) and then spoke warmly about what attending Harker had meant to him. He expressed that the best education he ever received was at Harker (and that the best histor y class he ever took was from John Near); the teachers and staff were such positive influences on him; the campus had so much to offer in terms of space and playing fields; and extracurricular activities were incredible. These elements and working as a counselor in the summer camp program all played an impor tant role in molding him to be the man he is today. The Owens roots run deep at Harker. David and John’s father, Jack Owens, and uncle, Tom Owens, attended PAMA in the early 50s and all three attended the event to honor John. The awards ceremony was followed by a complimentary Harker buffet lunch served picnic-style in the quad. The remainder of the afternoon was spent visiting, wandering around the campus, or viewing the photos and memorabilia. “The day went by so quickly! Next year, I think I need to have tape recorders at each table and videotape the day so I don’t miss out on any of the great memories shared; then I can add the information to archives,” said Terry Walsh.

Harker News — Summer 07, Alumni Supplement

2007 HAA Award Recipients: Peterson, Bhalerao ’02 and Owens ’85 Margaret Peterson HAA Phyllis Carley Service Award This award recognizes alumni or other friends who have unselfishly devoted their time and energies and made significant contributions towards advancing the programs of The Harker School. Phyllis Carley’s care, commitment and love of children began in 1952 at Harker and thrives today as she continues her involvement with the school on many levels. Margaret Peterson received this award in thanks for her years of service to Harker and for creating and building the art programs of The Harker School. Peterson’s devotion to Harker began in 1982 when, though hired to teach art part time in the afternoons, she always put in a full work day, arriving early in the morning and leaving late. The job evolved into a full-time position and Peterson worked diligently for 20 years, teaching art, developing the art show and finding ways to send our student art work out into the community. Upon retirement, Peterson was still seen daily around the school as she continued to offer her many talents as a volunteer in the after-school art program on the Bucknall campus. During the years that she worked at Harker, the artwork, displayed all over campus with special lighting, brightened the days of teachers and staff. We know there are many students whose parents have displayed their artwork at home and they are reminded of the strong and loving Mrs. Peterson. “She made such a wonderful mark on my life, and gave me an art trophy that I still treasure to this day! I remember Mrs. Peterson as a strong, loving person, who saw the most in my works but still guided me to be even better; as she guided, she made me feel I was the best at what I do, and I came to love art, continuing to do it to this day.” —Elaine Capogeannis ’90 “I always admired Margaret Peterson’s ability to present a wonderful art lesson, have students complete it in one period and get them to clean up within the 50-60 minutes that she had them in her classes. Margaret was a fantastic art teacher who brought out the best in all of her students. Her class was one that the students needed no encouragement to attend.” —Betty Koski, former teacher

Leena Bhalerao ’02 HAA Community Service Award This award recognizes the outstanding contributions and accomplishments of alumni who have devoted their time and talent in service to their community. Leena Bhalerao is one of our young alumni from the Upper School class of 2002 who has chosen a career in public health. As a health educator for Planned Parenthood of Santa Clara County, she is providing reproductive health and sexuality education to students, and spearheading community outreach targeting working-class and migrant populations. Her future plans involve pursing a master’s degree in public health in maternal Harker News — Summer 07, Alumni Supplement

and child health, and she would like to spend some time working in India. Bhalerao’s passion for her work was observed by Harker staff when she taught some health education classes at the Upper School. We admire Bhalerao for her commitment to a career in public health and her choice to work in health education where she can improve the lives of many children and their families, and make a positive impact on our community. “Throughout Leena’s study of Spanish at Harker, I had the privilege of being her teacher. In both language and literature courses, I found her to be an exceptional student, a truly talented individual, and a sincere and genuinely affable person.” —Abel Olivas, Spanish Teacher “I had Leena in my homeroom class. She was a brilliant, polite and unassuming student and a delight to have in class. Also, she had a finely tuned sense of humor. I’m not the least surprised that she ended up in a ‘helping’ profession.” —Betty Koski, Former Teacher “I was Leena’s teacher in many performing arts classes, including Harmonics and the original Downbeat, and was her director in many, many shows. When I spoke with several other performing arts teachers about Leena, the one word that was common to us all when describing her, was ‘grace.’” —Laura Lang-Ree, Director of Performing Arts

John Owens ’85

HAA Distinguished Alumni Award This award honors an alumnus or alumna who has displayed distinctive achievement in a chosen field of endeavor and outstanding service to society or his/her community. Harker faculty and staff have been following John Owens since it was announced that he graduated first in his class from the Stanford Law School; they were probably as proud of him as his parents were. When Owens went on to clerk for U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Harker pulled some strings so the Gr. 8 trip to Washington, D.C., could include a visit to her office. Owens also worked at the Justice Department and as an attorney at the law firm O’Melveny & Myers in D.C. Not surprisingly, with his extensive litigation experience, strong writing skills and excellent credentials, Owens was hired on as an assistant U.S. attorney and currently works in San Diego where he prosecutes white-collar fraud and corruption cases. “Teaching at Harker for as long as I have, I’ve had the opportunity to work with a lot of accomplished, bright kids. I first met John when he was 10 years old. It didn’t take long for him to catch my eye, and what impressed me was not so much his abilities as a student, although they were impressive even at the tender age of 10, but the way he handled himself, treated others, and his sense of integrity and fair play. “We (many of us at Harker) kept in contact with John through high school and college. He convinced all of his that he was going to work for the Golden State Warriors for a career, perhaps in their front office. I must say I’m a little disappointed. Had he gone with that plan, I might have scored some courtside seats. What’s the best I can hope for from a U.S. attorney, maybe a get-out-of- jail-free pass?” —Pat Walsh, Teacher

ALUMNI

news

Class Reunions Held in Conjunction with All Alumni Day Event Class of 1992

Class of 1997

Celebrating their 25-year reunion from Harker Academy, members of the Class of 1982 took advantage of the All Alumni Day & Awards to gather classmates

The Class of 1992 gathered at Sonoma Chicken Coop in Campbell to celebrate their 15-year reunion in the evening

Celebrating their 10-year reunion, classmates from 1997 gathered at the All Alumni Day & Awards and enjoyed the festivities together. They spent time looking over

of 2002 started their reunion gathering at the All Alumni Day and Awards. The group gathered with alumni from other years to honor their classmate Leena Bhalerao, who received the HAA Community Service Award. The alumni in attendance had a chance to visit with some of their former teachers and Harker staff, including Matt Brandstetter, Chris Daren, Pam Dickinson, Clare Elchert, Kelly Espinosa, Jennifer Gargano, Dan Hudkins, Cindy Kerr-Ellis, Sarah Leonard, Mena Lynch, Diana Moss, John Near, Eric Nelson, Chris Nikoloff, Abel Olivas, Laura Rae, Laura Lang-Ree,

Class of ’8

2 Class of ’8

Class of 1982

Class of ’9

following the alumni event. The dynamic group had no problem reconnecting and reminiscing about their Harker days, and enjoyed hours hanging

Class of 2002 Some members of the Class

Class of ’02

Class of ’97

out over drinks before heading out to dinner. Joe Rosenthal, Harker’s executive director of advancement, stopped by for a quick visit with the group and teacher Pat Walsh and alumni director Terry Walsh hung out for a while to get updates on the group. “It was really great to see everyone and reconnecting. It seemed as if the 15 years never even passed,” said Liz Williams ’92. Along with Williams those attending the reunion were: Julie Amerian Johnson, Melissa Bauman, Tania Bassoni Butler, Ravi Kapur, Ilan Kopecky, Amanda Mathias, Natica Rudavsky, Rebecca Sampson, Rubilanna Vasquez and Alfred Viola.

A second gathering was held the same evening at Britannia Arms in downtown San Jose. There were no photos or details available at press time.

Howard Saltzman and Pat Walsh. The first upper school five-year class reunion was celebrated by the Class of 2002 on June 2 at Willow Street Restaurant at Westgate. The successful event was organized by Carmen Antoun, who volunteered her time to find a convenient place to gather and worked with alumni director Terry Walsh to settle on food and drinks to be ordered. The classmates took over the outside patio area at Willow Street, with lots of hoots and hollers as each alum arrived. Some classmates have seen each other quite often, but for others, it has been years since they have gotten together.

Class of ’02

the photos and memorabilia on display for their class year, and enjoyed sitting together at lunch. In attendance at the day event were: Daniel Ahn, Grace Law, Lauren Magboo, Erin O’Neil, Rachael Parker Bauer and Ashley Skipwith. Class of ’97

Hakim and Liz Robertson. Several from the group stayed on to continue reminiscing at a second gathering held in the patio area of Manzanita Hall (formerly the dorm patio). Teacher Pat Walsh visited with his former students at both gatherings. Following the event, De Voss sent a note to alumni director Terry Walsh. “I had a big smile on my face when I drove home on Saturday and my memories of Harker are wonderful. I think everyone would probably agree that Mr. Walsh played a large role in everyone’s development, and the fact that he faithfully comes to the reunions and alumni functions is priceless,” said De Voss.

Class of ’9

and enjoy the festivities together. The group fondly looked over the photos and memorabilia on display for their class year, and enjoyed a picnic lunch together. Alumni attending the reunion included: Keil Albert, Pauline de Voss, Tyrone Easter, Tina Johnson Murray, Stacey Kofman, Michelle Magboo Hunter, Dawn Ratner

Harker News — Summer 07, Alumni Supplement

Alumna Named Truman Scholar

“It was really great to see everyone who came to the reunion, and it was nice to see some of the faculty who stopped by. It seemed like everyone enjoyed catching up, especially because almost everyone who came to the ‘official’ reunion at Willow Street ended up going somewhere else afterwards and hanging out until the early hours of the morning!” said Antoun. Tiffany Duong sent alumni director Terry Walsh a note after the event. “The reunion was such a blast from the past. It was really crazy to re-meet teachers who have had such an impact on my development, who were

a part of my very earliest memories. The fact that we had 40 some people from the Class of 2002 come out to either the daytime, the Willow Street, or the after-party outing really reinforces how close we all became while at Harker. It was great seeing everyone and how they’ve changed, and I hope that the 10-year is just as successful!” Alumni at the Willow Street gathering included Antoun, Duong and Irene Altman, Heather Browning, Jacob Chang, Alex Combs, Liang Dong, Nadia Gangani, Ben Hu, Rahwa Iman, Alex Janofsky, Anish Jina, Shiraz Khan, Akhsar Kharebov, Abbas Kothari, Michael Kwong, Sameep Lad, Daniel Lee, Isabella Liu, Neil Mehta, Myron Nagalingum, Samara Nebenzahl, Jesse Nelson, Shaan Patel, Vivek Patel, Joe Sofaer, Sunil Subhedar, Alex Sung, Brinda Venkatesh, Ed Williams and Kaileen Yen.

Alumni Speak at Symposium Three alumni were brought in by US science chair Anita Chetty to give talks at Harker’s annual research symposium held at the Saratoga campus. Surbhi Sarna ’03, a new graduate of UC Berkeley in molecular and cell biology, discussed bench research and other options for those interested in pursuing research careers. Sarna has begun work at Abbott Vascular as a cardiovascular bioengineer. Sam Levinson ’05 (pictured), a biology major at UC Santa Barbara, gave a talk titled, “Cowbird Vocal Development and Visual Signaling in the Red-Winged Blackbird.” Levinson plans to study the biomechanics of dolphin sound production in graduate school. Teddy Lee ’06, currently at Stanford studying business and deciding between electrical engineering and computer science, discussed the relationship between smoking and the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Harker News — Summer 07, Alumni Supplement

in the B.A./M.D. program, she plans to earn a master’s in public health, and to pursue a career in international health. “Over time, I would like to develop a program or establish an organization focused on strengthening health-care systems in developing countries,” Desale told a reporter for BU Today, a university daily. Photo provided by Meghana Desale

Class of ’02 Willow

The group enjoyed a variety of appetizers and drinks provided by the HAA while they visited for several hours. Several teachers and staff including Evan Barth, Heather Blair, Robb Cutler, Chris Daren, Clare Elchert and Pat Walsh stopped by to visit.

As members of the Upper School’s first few classes excel in and graduate from college, they are sending word of their honors and achievements to their alma mater. Meghana Desale ’03, a rising

Desale has studied abroad in Peru and is currently in Ecuador; next semester she will be a clinical intern at senior at Boston University, was Hemalkasa, a health-care center in named a 2007 Truman Scholar. Maharashtra, India. She would like Since 1977, 2,545 exceptional to return to South America. “After students interested in government being here (in Ecuador) for almost or public service careers have been a year, I’ve realized how much they awarded Truman Scholarships. need a more organized health care system. Those living outside of the The president of the Truman Scholarship Foundation, former Secrecities, especially the indigenous tary of State Madeleine Albright, people who live in the villages, announced that 65 students from have almost no access to clinics or 56 U.S. colleges and universities basic health care. And, while there are plenty of clinics and hospitals were selected as Truman Scholars within the cities, they could benefit this year. The Truman Scholarship from better Foundation’s “My desire to help, my belief health care education mission is and the use “to find and in humanity, my passion for of preventive recognize college volunteering – they are what medicine.” juniors with When asked exceptional drive me every day…” how she leadership heard about potential who are committed to cathe award in Ecuador, Desale said, reers in government, the nonprofit “My parents received a phone or advocacy sectors, education or call from the provost of Boston elsewhere in the public service,” University. Since my cell phone according to the organization’s Web had been stolen just days earlier, site. A grueling application process they had no way of reaching included interviews by a university me. Finally through a long chain president, a federal judge, a past of telephone calls, I received a scholarship winner and a distinphone call from my study abroad guished public servant. Desale said director telling me that I had won. the hardest part of the application I told her I didn’t believe it and process was “explaining my goals went straight to a telephone booth for both graduate school and my cato call my parents.” reer. Although the responses were Desale will receive $30,000 for only a paragraph long, they took a her graduate studies, as well lot of reflection and planning.” as special oppor tunities for At Boston University, Desale is active with Habitat for Humanity and the campus Girl Scouts, and works for Emergency Medical Services. A Spanish/psychology major

graduate training, counseling and federal internships. She was awarded her scholarship at the Truman Librar y in Independence, Mo., on May 20.

ALUMNI

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PAMA Grads and Lifelong Friends Return for Visit, Contribute to Archives A recent visit by two alumni who attended both PAMA and Harker Academy resulted in lots of updated information for both the Harker archives and the alumni office. Alan Stevens ’73 started at PAMA in Gr. 5 in 1968 and Jay (Gerald) Russio ’73 started in Gr. 6 in 1969. The two have remained friends and made special arrangements to meet in the alumni office to look through photos and memorabilia. They were joined by Dan Gelineau ’65 and Phyllis Carley, both former staff members who were here when the two visitors were students, Susan Smith and Alex Lux from the Harker archive department and Terry Walsh, alumni director. The alumni office was filled with loud chatter and joyous laughter as Russio, Stevens and Gelineau enjoyed reminiscing about so many things from their days at PAMA, including: the campus, the cadets, the

“drill down” contests, Hough, Encinita and Manzanita Halls, the awards, incentives and privileges that could be earned at PAMA, buglers, Dana Morgan, the band, wearing uniforms, monthly award ceremonies, dances at Castilleja, Crack Squad, special order #16, the mascot Dutch and so much more. They read through rosters that sparked stories about various former classmates and set some names straight for the alumni database. Russio also brought his personal souvenirs and photo albums to share with the group. His scrapbook included his personal “Cadet Records,” class photos, award programs and color photos, prompting more stories and laughter. The trio was able to identify names of people in photos from their years at the school, putting a small dent in the piles of dateless photos in the alumni office. Russio left his personal items so they could be scanned and kept in the archives for other alumni to enjoy. The group was greeted at the front office and given a quick tour of the campus. Since Stevens and Russio were both involved with the band at PAMA, they made a quick stop by the music room to hear the current Harker orchestra rehearsing during their class time. It didn’t take them long to notice an old red drum stored at the top of some cabinets. The drum dated back to the early Harker Academy years, and has now been relocated to the archive department. They enjoyed lunch in the faculty dining room (the former dorm dining room) and met some of the current staff. They ended their visit with a stop by the Major Donald Nichols memorial on the Saratoga campus. The alumni friends promised to search for more PAMA memorabilia at their homes, to keep in touch with the alumni office and return for another visit to the campus.

’02 Grad Awarded Fulbright to Continue Research in Argentina After graduating from Stanford University last year, Leslie Hernandez ’02 landed an internship in online sales and operations at Google, Inc. “Google is a great company, and I had a lot of fun,” she says. But Hernandez was aching to return to Argentina, where she had spent summer 2005 researching human rights organizations. “I didn’t feel like I had had enough time to finish my research to my satisfaction,” she explains. “I’m evaluating human rights organizations that formed in response to the Argentine military dictatorship which took place between 1976 and 1983.” So, Hernandez applied for and was awarded a prestigious Fulbright grant. Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, the Fulbright Program provides funding for a variety of educational activities, primarily university lecturing, advanced research, graduate study and teaching. Established in 1946, the program aims to increase mutual understanding between the United States and other countries through the exchange of persons, knowledge and skills. “The Fulbright Program was a great opportunity for me to continue my research in a countr y that I love and it gave me adequate time to complete my research successfully,” she says. “Argentina is an excellent case study for evaluating human rights because of the rampant human rights abuses that occurred during the militar y dictatorship. Argentina just recognized the 30th anniversar y of the militar y coup, so it’s an interesting time to be studying these organizations.” Hernandez left for Argentina in March and will be there until November. She intends to write an article on the four human rights organizations she is studying. “I also plan to learn to tango while I’m here, as well as to do community service and learn French,” she says. When she returns to the United States, Hernandez says she would like to work for a large foundation where she can incorporate her research. She also plans to attend business school, where she would like to earn a joint MBA and master’s degree in international policy. “She is innately kind and compassionate, and her current humanitarian work seems an absolutely natural growth from the young student I knew,” says Harker music teacher Catherine Snider.

Harker News — Summer 07, Alumni Supplement

’98 MS Monte Malhotra

2007 Fashion Show

“The Young Investor’s Guide to Retiring Young,” a new book that arrived at bookstores on June 4, was written by one of our young alums, Monte Malhotra. Malhotra explained to Terry Walsh, alumni director, how Harker played a role in star ting his interest in investing.

Once again, alumni and alumni parents were on hand to support the fourth annual Harker Fashion Show – CinéFest. This fun community event draws alums and their parents for both the lunch and dinner shows, and is a great chance to catch up with friends from a wide range of Harker years. In attendance at lunch and/or dinner were the following:

“I began investing when I was 9 years old after taking Mr. (Bill) Bost’s class. He saw the market of the 1990s as an oppor tunity to teach us about the stock market, and I’ve been in love with it ever since. Since then, I have taken an avid interest in investing, achieving an above average annualized return. In high school, I star ted a finance and economics club to share my passion with other like-minded students, and to have fun investing and listening to accomplished speakers on financial topics. The club began with only a few members in my freshman year and grew to over twenty by the time I graduated. I began writing the book in my sophomore year of high school as I saw many of my classmates having the same misunderstandings of the markets and committing the same mistakes as when I first star ted as a beginning investor. Recognizing an oppor tunity to share my learnings and to help other beginning investors, I star ted writing the book, differentiating it from the many others in the market by targeting it towards younger audiences, making it enter taining and keeping the chapters shor t and focused. At the end of my senior year in high school, I also earned the distinction of representing my school as a Whiz Kid for San Jose Magazine. As a freshman at Stanford University, I am now an associate director for the Charles R. Blyth Fund. In the future, I actively seek to continue my passion and interest in investing.”

“The Young Investor’s Guide to Retiring Young” My book hinges on two main themes: the first deals with personal finance and how to manage one’s money. This first theme is based upon the simple concept that you cannot invest money you do not have. Being able to save your money is a prerequisite for investing. Saving is impor tant because debt is actually the biggest financial problem facing Americans. In fact, U.S. citizens have a negative savings rate! This means that we’re spending more than we make. In the first par t of my book I explain how to prevent finding yourself in such a situation and what to do if you ever are in debt. Personal finance is the biggest investment in any por tfolio. The second par t of “The Young Investor’s Guide to Retiring Young” deals with how to specifically invest your money in stocks, bonds, real estate, exchange traded funds and mutual funds. Once you have extra money to invest, you need to know how to invest it. I believe that proper investment behavior is impor tant due to the effects of compound interest. In fact, the earlier you star t, the greater the effects compounding will have on your investments, essentially giving you a lot more money for no other reason than for star ting early. Good investments can make the difference between retiring at 45, 55, 65 or 75. Moreover, knowing how to take on and manage risk, as well as evaluating the fundamentals of any corporation, will give you the upper hand on any investment. —Monte Malhotra

Alumni: Mark Gelineau ’90, Erika Gudmundson ’05, Daniel Lawrence Holquin ’95, Erik Leonard ’94, Michael Leonard ’04, Jeffrey Niederauer ’93, Kristen Nielsen ’93, Rosie Nijmeh Habib ’82, Quan Pham Howard ’78, Jason Reid ’94, Grace Sabeh ’95, Joe Sabeh ’93, Kristin Scarpace Giammona ’81, Kelle Sloan ’95, Elise Tremba Schwartz ’84 and Miyeko Yoneda Kohlmann ’85. Alumni Parents – Lon and Mary Allan (James ’84 & Margo ’86), Sally Anderson (Tim ’91), Mike Bassoni (Tania ’92), Cherrie Blair (Casey ’06, Brenden ’01), Ivy Chang (Edward Peng ’04), Kim Gudmundson (Erika ’05), Eva Hsu (Alex ’05), Jane Hung (Charles ’03, Daniel ’05), Annie Hwang (Derek ’04), Mohammed Kaleem (Daniyal ’95, Maheen ’03), Amalia and John Keyashian (Chris ’02, Laena ’04), Ellen Kim (Catherine ’03, Michael ’06), Jeffrey and Susan Lee (Jeffrey ’92, Kathryn ’04), Sarah Leonard (Erik ’94, Michael ’04), Martin and Amanda Lundie (Jeffrey ’03, Fiona ’05), Jon and Linda Michaelson (Eliot ’95), Nan Nielsen (Carey ’89, Kristen ’93), Carol Sabatino (Elizabeth ’83, Murphy ’87), Joe and Linda Sabeh (Joe ’93, Grace ’95), Dorothy and Marty Scarpace (Marty ’79, Kristin ’81), Carol Sosnowski (DJ ’92), Jorja Smith (Missy ’92), Lynette Stapleton (Sam ’89, Emily ’93), Linda Tremba (Elise ’84, Joey ’88), Mary Usher (Rose Kirby ’06) and Grace Wu (Justin ’05, Jessica ’05).

Alumni Giving This year we formed the first-ever Alumni Development Council for the reunion Classes of 1982, 1992 and 2002. The objective of the Alumni Development Council is to contact other members of their classes to ask for their participation in alumni giving. Contributions help fund Harker’s Annual Giving Campaign, which helps fund student programs such as performing arts, athletics, debate, robotics, the library, technology and much more. Members of this year’s Alumni Development Council are (* denotes team leaders): 1982 – Keil Albert*and Tina Johnson-Murray* 1992 – Amanda Mathias*, Julie Amerian Johnson, Meredith Harrington Hiltgen, Daniel Nevis, Vicky Viso and Liz Williams 2002 – Carmen Antoun*, Leena Bhalerao, Ana Brar, Elnora Hawley, Leslie Hernandez and Sunil Subhedar Thank you to these individuals for their efforts on behalf of alumni giving this year! Members of the ADC presented the school with a check for all donations received from their classes at the All Alumni Day & Awards on June 2 (see cover story).

The Harker News is published nine times a year by The Harker School, Ofﬁce of Communications, 500 Saratoga Ave., San Jose, CA 95129. Periodical Postage Rate is paid at San Jose, CA and additional mailing ofﬁces. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Harker News, 500 Saratoga Avenue, San Jose CA 95129. The Harker News provides timely information, news and features about the Harker community to current and alumni Harker families.

Harker News — Summer 07, Alumni Supplement

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events news

Alumni Support Their Own Class of ’92 Real Alumni Connections Real Estate alumni connections, that is! Tania Bassoni Butler, Meredith Harrington Hiltgen, Amanda Matthias, Nikki Noonan and Liz Williams, former classmates and Harker friends since kindergarten, have remained in contact with each other since their days at Harker and now offer each other business opportunities. Williams, a Realtor at Alain Pinel Realtors in Saratoga, helped Matthias and her fiancé, Jeff, buy a new home in Willow Glen; Bassoni Butler and her husband, Shawn, purchased an investment property in Cupertino; and Harrington Hiltgen and her husband are currently looking for a new home. Williams keeps the connection alive with Noonan, a Realtor in San Diego, by sending her referrals. “It has been truly wonder ful to have my Harker friends in life and in business,” said Williams. All alumni are encouraged to network with each other and to support our Harker community businesses. You can check out the Harker Business Director y by clicking on the link on the Harker homepage.

— May 31, 2008 — Classes with Reunion Years: 2003 - 5 Years 1998 - 10 Years 1993 - 15 Years 1988 - 20 Years 1983 - 25 Years 1978 - 30 Years 1973 - 35 Years 1968 - 40 Years If you are interested in joining a committee to help plan your class reunion, contact Terry Walsh, alumni director, at terryw@harker.org, or 408.345.9205.

“Just when we thought the old family restaurant was dead meat in Silicon Valley, along comes a good son with the heart and sizzle to keep his father’s steakhouse going well into the 21st centur y.” So wrote columnist Joe Rodriguez in the Feb. 4 San Jose Mercur y News. Rodriguez was writing about George Pappas ’83, who has been involved in his parents’ restaurant business since he was a baby. “Later I washed dishes, waited on tables, learned how to cook, learned the business,” Pappas said. Pappas’ father, Louis, opened the first Bold Knight in Sunnyvale (since closed) in 1964. In 1968, he opened a larger Bold Knight on Monterey Road in San Jose, which became a local landmark. But because of his impending retirement and rising lease costs, he closed up shop last Januar y. His son stepped in, with his restaurateur-wife, Adriana, and opened the Bold Knight Bistro on North First Street in San Jose. Fluent in Greek, Pappas’ bistro stays true to traditional Greek cuisine, while also ser ving steakhouse fare. He hopes his father’s faithful customers will make the switch to his new location, which so far seems to be the case. After Harker, Pappas attended Bellarmine College Prep and Pepperdine University. “I wanted to honor my father when I took over and opened this place,” Pappas told Rodriguez. “It’s in my blood.”

2008

Harker Fashion Show Fundraiser

SAVE THE DATE!

Third Annual ALL HARKER Alumni Day & Awards

Harker Academy Grad’s Longtime Family Restaurant

Friday, Feb. 22, 2008 San Jose Convention Center Luncheon Event & Dinner Gala Visit: www.harker.org or e-mail: fashionshow@harker.org

PIONEER PICNIC The 57th Annual Harker Family & Alumni PICNIC Sunday, Oct. 14, 2007 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Blackford Campus

The Harker School is a K-12 independent, co-ed, college-prepschool. Grades K-5: 4600 Bucknall Rd., San Jose CA 95130; Grades 6-8: 3800 Blackford Ave., San Jose CA 95117; Grades 9-12: 500 Saratoga Ave., San Jose CA 95129

The Harker News provides timely information, news and features about the Harker community to current and alumni Harker families.

Harker believes that all persons are entitled to equal employment opportunity and does not discriminate against its employees or applicants because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), national origin, ancestry, age (over 40), marital status, political afﬁliations, physical or mental disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, or any other basis protected by state or federal laws, local law or ordinance.

Editor: Pam Dickinson; Lead Writer: Terry Walsh; Asst. Editor/Copy Editor: Catherine Snider; Production: Blue Heron Design Group; Photos: Mark Tantrum, unless noted; Printing: Carol Sosnowski; Mailing Coordinator: Desiree Mitchell.

Harker News — Summer 07, Alumni Supplement