The Pingry Review, Summer 2017 by The Pingry School

ARCHITECTURE OF IMPACT

Touring the Miller A. Bugliari ’52 Athletics Center PICTURE PERFECT PINGRY Uncovering theAdam InnerGardner Artist ‘91Reunion Commencement Arts Honor for • Reunion • Commencement 2016 SUMMER 2017

SUMMER 2017

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THE PINGRY REVIEW

Students explore Bears Ears National Monument in Utah during a Global Programs trip. Read more on page 54.

Architecture of Impact: Touring the BAC Page 14 The Miller A. Bugliari ’52 Athletics Center (BAC) opened in January, and students, faculty, and staff have wasted no time initiating it! Discover what this astonishing new facility looks like, meet a few of the individuals it has already influenced, and go behind the scenes of the Pingry Athletics Hall of Fame, a fitting tribute to Pingry’s renowned athletes, coaches, and teams. On the cover: Comings and goings, as students make daily use of the Miller A. Bugliari ’52 Athletics Center.

Departments

From the Headmaster . . . . . 3 Scene Around Campus . . . . 4 Philanthropy . . . . . . . . . 32 School News . . . . . . . . . 44 Athletics News . . . . . . . . 64

Alumni News . . . . . . . . . 70 Ask the Archivist . . . . . . . 94 Class Notes . . . . . . . . . . 95 In Memoriam . . . . . . . . 102 Closing Word . . . . . . . . 104

32 Dedication of the Miller A. Bugliari ’52 Athletics Center

The ceremony was the culmination of one of the School’s most eagerly-anticipated endeavors made possible by the Blueprint for the Future Campaign.

77 Arts Honor for Adam Gardner ’91

Co-Founder, vocalist, and guitarist of Guster, and Co-Founder of REVERB, Mr. Gardner received Pingry’s Achievement in the Arts Award in May. Learn how he has contributed to the arts on stage and off, and what he considers “a little bit bonkers” about his career.

80 Henry G. Stifel III ’83 Receives Letter-in-Life Award Pingry recognized Mr. Stifel for his determination to overcome the paralysis that resulted from an automobile accident his junior year. His poignant story is linked to the history of paralysis research and to the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation.

82 Joe Lucas ’91 Uses Interior Design to Channel the Unexpected

How did a theater major become a nationally-renowned interior designer? Why does he encourage his clients to take risks? And how did former AP Art History teacher Barbara Berlin P ’80, ’85 influence his career? SUMMER 2017

Opening Shot

Summer 2017 | Vol. 73 | No. 3

Summer was on this student’s mind during the Lower School’s Field Day in May. Editor Greg Waxberg ’96

Communications Writer

Editorial Staff Kate Whitman Annis P ’23, ’23

Associate Director of Institutional Advancement

Allison C. Brunhouse ’00

Director of Admission and Enrollment

Andrea Dawson Senior Writer

Holland Sunyak Francisco ’02

Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving

Melanie P. Hoffmann P ’20, ’27

Director of Institutional Advancement

Edward Lisovicz

Advancement Writer

Dale V. Seabury

Director of Strategic Communications and Marketing

Design and Layout Ruby Window Creative Group, Inc. www.rubywindow.com

Photography Camille Bonds Peter Chollick Michael Gunselman Bruce Morrison ’64 Cherilyn Reynolds Debbie Weisman The Pingry Review is the official magazine of The Pingry School, with the primary purpose of disseminating news and information about the School, alumni, students, faculty, and staff. Contact the editor with comments and story ideas: The Pingry School 131 Martinsville Road Basking Ridge, NJ 07920 gwaxberg@pingry.org 908-647-5555, ext. 1296

The Honor Code

Pingry believes that students should understand and live by standards of honorable behavior, which are essentially a matter of attitude and spirit rather than a system of rules and regulations. Decent, self-respecting behavior must be based on personal integrity and genuine concern for others and on the ethical principles which are the basis of civilized society. The members of the Pingry community should conduct themselves in a trustworthy manner that will further the best interests of the school, their class, and any teams or clubs to which they belong. They should act as responsible members of the community, working for the common good rather than solely for personal advantage. They should honor the rights of others, conducting themselves at all times in a moral and decent manner while at Pingry and throughout their lives as citizens of and contributors to the larger community of the world.

THE PINGRY REVIEW

A LETTER FROM THE HEADMASTER

Dear Members of the Pingry Community

The “story” of the BAC...is far more about the legacy of Pingry athletics, and the dedication of our athletes, coaches, and supporting staff, than simply the striking physical presence on campus of the building itself.

When the Miller A. Bugliari ’52 Athletics Center (BAC) opened its doors in January, it was not only the celebration of a long-awaited home worthy of Pingry athletes and coaches—past, present, and future. It was also, it turns out, an auspicious launch into the late winter and spring sports season. Here are just a few of the highlights: In February, the Boys’ Varsity Squash Team finished 10th in the nation at the High School National Team Championships; the girls’ team finished 18th. Senior captain Frankie Dillon became the first Pingry wrestler in 12 years to advance to the NJSIAA State Tournament in Atlantic City in early March. The following month, the girls’ and boys’ golf teams swept the Somerset County Championships, with Ami Gianchandani ’18 and Jake Mayer ’17 each winning the tournament title. Ami went on to secure a coveted win at the Tournament of Champions—where the best of the best in the state square off—leading the team to a second-place state finish, by just one stroke. En route to their third straight Non-Public B state title and Tournament of Champions semifinals appearance, the Boys’ Varsity Lacrosse program celebrated its 500th win and Head Coach Michael Webster P ’24, P ’24, P ’27 marked his 300th victory. Despite relocating in early May to a temporary cinder track on campus in anticipation of a new, state-of-the-art facility next year, varsity track & field athletes gave some stunning performances during post-season competition. Junior Zack Aanstoots, new to the track & field team, literally leapt on the scene with a long jump of 21' 9-1/4", breaking a school record that had stood since 1953. He also broke the school record in the high jump (6' 4"). Continuing the streak, Nicole Vanasse ’20—who twice this season broke the school record in the 800-meter run, with a PR of 2:14.52—also broke the school’s 1600-meter record set in 1997 by Hall of Famer Sara Tindall-Woodman ’97 (5:01.7) with a blazing 5:00.69. She placed second in the state group championship with that time, and qualified for the New Balance Outdoor Nationals, which was just held in Greensboro, North Carolina. Sophia Weldon ’18 broke the school record in both the triple (38' 1-1/2") and high (5' 6") jumps, winning both events at states and qualifying for Nationals in the high jump. Austin Parsons ’18, who has the second-longest javelin throw in the history of Pingry’s track & field program (193' 05"), also competed at Nationals. Although they haven’t benefited from the BAC, Pingry’s alumni athletes have been equally active, with Katie Marino ’16, a freshman softball star at Notre Dame, enjoying not one, but two video appearances on EPSN SportsCenter’s “Top 10 Plays of the Week.” Eric Rogers ’14, a defenseman on Middlebury’s men’s lacrosse team, was recently named a Division III Second Team All-American, improving on his Third Team All-American status last year as a sophomore. If space allowed, I could go on, believe me... Peek inside this issue of the Review, and you will be treated to many more stories and photos that illustrate the impact of the BAC. Suffice it to say, the “story” of the BAC, the Athletics Hall of Fame it now houses, and the more than 5,000 Blueprint for the Future Campaign donors who made it all possible, is far more about the legacy of Pingry athletics, and the dedication of our athletes, coaches, and supporting staff, than simply the striking physical presence on campus of the building itself. Speaking of dedication, in this issue you will also be treated to coverage of Reunion weekend, which marked the official dedication of the new athletics center. And last but certainly not least, on Sunday, June 11, it was with pride and great promise for the future that we sent out into the world Pingry’s 138 newest alumni, the Class of 2017, ready for their next great adventure. You can view highlights from the School’s 156th Commencement Exercises in a photo gallery inside. I thank you, the Pingry community, for all you have done to support our collective progress and accomplishments this year. We all have a great deal to be proud of. May the next school year be equally rewarding. In the meantime, I wish you a safe, restful summer. Sincerely,

Nathaniel E. Conard P ’09, ’11 SUMMER 2017

Scene Around Campus

Yearbook Dedication

Lower School Spring Musical

The 2017 Blue Book is dedicated to Easter Evans, a cherished member of the SAGE Dining Services staff whom the yearbook editors described in the ceremony as “brightening everyone’s morning.” Ms. Evans is known for her big smile, energy, and positive attitude, and for wishing students, faculty, and staff “a blessed day.” She was emotionally overwhelmed by the dedication. Addressing Middle and Upper School students, she said, “I am so surprised, I love you guys, and you’ll be fine no matter where you go!” During the ceremony, editors Lindsey Lubowitz ’17, Taylor Dupree ’17, and Nicole Preziosi ’17 thanked the Middle and Upper School yearbook staff and described this year’s book as being “one-of-a-kind, like the Class of 2017” and modern, to reflect the modernization of Pingry’s campuses. Upper School history teacher Colleen Kent serves as yearbook advisor.

Nearly 50 students in Grades 3-5 took audiences on a magical trip in The Phantom Tollbooth JR., a musical adaptation of Norton Juster’s children’s book. When a mysterious phantom tollbooth appears in his bedroom, a boy named Milo—who is always bored—is forced to confront his Demons and try to restore the Princesses of Rhyme and Reason to the confusing Land of Wisdom. During his quest, he passes through the Doldrums (where nothing ever happens), Dictionopolis (the land of words), and Digitopolis (the land of numbers). This was the final Pingry production for Lower School drama teacher and director Alicia Harabin ’02, who left Pingry at the end of the school year; a tribute to Mrs. Harabin will appear in the fall issue.

Easter Evans with Food Service Director Andrew Whitman and the yearbook staff.

Milo rescues the Princesses of Rhyme and Reason, returning them to Dictionopolis (the land of words) and Digitopolis (the land of numbers).

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Moving Up Day

Lower School Spring Concert

The Lower School celebrated the achievements of the fifth-grade students on June 9 as the Class of 2024 prepared to leave the Short Hills Campus for the Basking Ridge Campus. Teachers recognized students for their accomplishments in community service, drama, visual arts, music, the Math Olympiad, the National Social Studies League, physical fitness, and other disciplines. Lower School Director Ted Corvino P ’94, ’97, ’02 and Assistant Lower School Director Dr. Sandy Lizaire-Duff P ’25 presented the class to Headmaster Nat Conard P ’09 ’11, who presented a certificate to each student. Mr. Conard asked the class to continue their leadership in the fall, when they will be asked to welcome and include students who are new to Pingry.

It was time for the Lower School’s annual Spring Concert in May, a wonderful showcase of nine instrumental and choral ensembles: Tuesday and Wednesday Enrichment Strings, Grade 4 and 5 Strings, Grade 4 and 5 Bands, Grade 4 and 5 Choruses, and Handbell Choir. Since students have two types of music classes—General Music and performance-oriented courses—the music in the Spring Concert represents the curriculum for Strings, Band, Chorus, and handbells. As is tradition, a fifth-grade student conducted The Star-Spangled Banner, and the concert included B-I-N-G-O, with the audience invited to sing along. In addition, five fifth-grade pianists played short pieces as interludes between the ensemble performances, and the combined choruses continued the tradition of singing “Old John Pingry,” composed by the School’s late English teacher and Director of Admission C. Brett Boocock. The Handbell Choir playing three pieces for a “morning-noon-night” theme—music teacher Patty Finn’s arrangements of Morning Has Broken, To a Wild Rose, and Eine Kleine Nachtmusik (A Little Night Music).

SUMMER 2017

Middle School Science Olympiad

Grade 8 Legacy Quilt During a Morning Meeting in May, Middle School Head Girl Kaitlin Weiss ’21 and Head Boy Noah Bergam ’21 revealed their classmates’ achievement: a 90-square, 8x12’ legacy quilt—one square for each member of the Class of 2021. They were the seventh eighth-grade class to create such a quilt, a Middle School tradition that helps to mark the students’ transition to the Upper School. The quilt’s theme of “What Do We STAND For?” was inspired by a field trip at the beginning of the school year to visit the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and war memorials in Washington, D.C. Students pondered questions like “Why do we memorialize?” and “What character traits do these memorials represent?” So, each student was asked to create a square for the quilt that expresses what values or traits they stand for. Middle School science teacher and Grade 8 advisor Dr. Patricia Lowery, who retired at the end of the school year, sewed the quilt together, arranging it so the squares are grouped by advisory; a tribute to Dr. Lowery will appear in the fall issue.

Grandparents & Special Friends Day “This is art class, and this is science class...” “Did you show your grandmother the section where you find all the books about the countries?” “Remember that grandparents and special friends are supposed to win!” “Show me some of your favorite things in school.” These are a few of the fun exchanges from the Lower School’s 31st annual Grandparents & Special Friends Day on May 5. They were spoken by (respectively) a student taking her grandparents on a tour; Lower School Librarian Ann D’Innocenzo; fourth-grade math teacher Kennedy Buckley P ’16 while introducing a game; and an eager grandparent. As Lower School Director (and fellow grandparent) Ted Corvino P ’94, ’97, ’02 observed in his opening remarks, the children were excited about their guests’ visit. Grandparents and special friends followed the students’ schedules—meeting teachers; spending time in classrooms, the art studio, and the library; and participating in activities based on the students’ coursework. Third-grade students playing their handmade dulcimers.

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Twenty-five members of the team competed in the state tournament at Middlesex County College in early March. In only its third year of competition, Pingry medaled in 10 events and placed fourth overall out of 27 teams (an improvement from sixth place in 2016 and ninth place in 2015). Events tested the students’ knowledge and expertise in every science discipline, including technology and engineering. Many of the events, such as Microbe Mission, Reach for the Stars, and Crime Busters, were “study events” (studying an area of science, then taking a written test at the tournament), while others, such as Hovercraft, Mission Possible, and Towers, required the students to build and test various devices. “The students diligently prepare for six months, and the success we enjoyed is a credit to the efforts of the entire team,” says Middle School science teacher Debra Tambor, who coaches the team along with Upper School science teacher Helen Huang-Hobbs.

Middle School Musical A cast and crew of more than 50 students, under the direction of drama teacher Trish Wheeler, performed Shakespeare’s The Tempest, featuring original music and popular songs. The Tempest tells the story of a powerful family that is ripped apart by acts of betrayal and brought back together through love and forgiveness. Also, after directing his final Pingry play in April (Drama IV’s performance of Noah Haidle’s Smokefall), this was the final Pingry production for Drama Department Chair Al Romano (lighting and set design), who retired at the end of the school year. The show was dedicated to him as “founder of Pingry drama, a beloved drama teacher and director, and Shakespearean scholar”; a tribute to Mr. Romano will appear in the fall issue.

Talent Competition Two students each from Grades 9-12 participated in a talent show in late March; acts included singing, playing the guitar, and playing the cello. A panel of judges selected Renée Chan ’20 and Alison Lee ’20 as the winners for their collaboration of music and Chinese Yo-Yo— Renée played a combination of two contemporary classical bagatelles by Alexander Tcherepnin on the piano while Alison performed acrobatics with the yo-yo. “I was hesitant, at first, to perform Chinese Yo-Yo (Diabolo) for the school, because nobody really knew what it was,” Alison says. “I’m glad I got the chance to show this to the school, and I want to thank everyone for their kind standing ovation and overall compliments.” SUMMER 2017

Upper School Winter Musical

It was Curtains for this cast of Upper School students—a musical comedy “whodunit” by John Kander (music) and Fred Ebb (lyrics), creators of Cabaret and Chicago. The show is a celebration of backstage murder mystery plots, set in Boston in 1959. (After a supremely untalented star is murdered during her opening night curtain call, the musical follows the fallout.) Pingry’s performances in the Hostetter Arts Center’s Macrae Theater showcased over 50 students in the cast, ensemble, and pit, under the direction of drama teacher Stephanie Romankow. Other faculty included Dr. Andrew Moore (musical direction), Jay Winston (vocal direction), Trish Wheeler (choreography), Jane Asch P ’04 (set, costume, and make-up design), Al Romano (lighting designer), Sean McAnally (sound designer), and Shelley Hartz (props).

Cum Laude Society: Spring Induction Ceremony Pingry inducted 14 members of the Class of 2017 into The Cum Laude Society in late April. Established in 1906 as the secondary school equivalent of Phi Beta Kappa, the country’s oldest collegiate honor society, The Cum Laude Society honors academic excellence and superior scholarship among its 382 member schools. Membership in this prestigious academic organization is limited to 20 percent of a Senior class. The Cum Laude Society also recognizes individuals who—in all areas of their lives—love to learn, share their knowledge with others, and demonstrate scholarship, honor, integrity, and good character. The Society hopes that all of its members will continue their cooperative and selfless pursuit of knowledge while serving as lifelong examples of The Cum Laude Society motto: Aréte (Excellence), Diké (Justice), Timé (Honor).

Spring inductees (pictured with members of the Class of 2017 who were inducted last fall): Joshua Baum, Henry Biedron, Siyu Cao, Julia Dannenbaum, William DiGrande, Zachary Keller, Ellen Li, Caroline Marone, Jake Mayer, Sarah Moseson, Claire O’Mara, Parth Patel, Matthew Peacock, and Sean Wang.

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Celebrating Earth Day Understanding sustainability not as an abstract concept, but as a personal experience was the focus of this year’s Earth Day Assembly on the Basking Ridge Campus. Several students reflected on their recent environmental field study trips (organized by Pingry’s Global Programs and Green Group) and the impact of their newfound awareness. These included a winter adventure in the Adirondacks and a backpacking excursion over Spring Break in southwestern Utah (read more about these two trips on page 52). Also, Green Group Advisor and then-visual arts teacher Peter Delman P ’97, ’98 spoke about architect Scott Loikits ’90, who has been working with Mr. Delman on efforts to use Pingry’s existing farmland and woodland resources to teach sustainability (read more on page 98). Concluding the assembly, Isabel DeVito ’19 introduced—in the “flesh”!—her pet albino corn snake, “Corny,” and “Lena Horn,” a northern pine snake from the Pine Barrens of southern New Jersey. Isabel raised awareness that these species are being threatened by habitat fragmentation due to poaching and overdevelopment in the area. Students had the opportunity to handle a snake, courtesy of Isabel DeVito ’19.

Justin Society Creative Writing Festival

The Justin Society launched in 1996 when Dee and George Ring P ’94, ’98 honored their son Justin ’94, a creative writer, by establishing a fund that could inspire all Pingry students to write creatively. Pingry uses this fund for the annual Creative Writing Contest, the Creative Writing Festival, and trips to the Dodge Poetry Festival. For each incarnation of the writing festival, Pingry invites poets and novelists to read selections from their works to Upper School students and then work with students in conversations and workshops throughout the day. Poet Deborah Landau (Director of the NYU Creative Writing Program); poet Rowan Ricardo Phillips; novelist and biographer Roxana Robinson (President of the Authors Guild); and poet Danniel Schoonebeek.

National Chess Master Visits Middle School Middle School students, including members of the newly-launched Chess Club, advised by Middle School German teacher Mr. Karsten Niehues, had the chance to play alongside one of the country’s greatest. Majur Juac, named a national master by the U.S. Chess Federation in 2011, teaches schoolchildren in New York City and plays in some of the most competitive clubs in the city, including the famed Marshall Chess Club in Greenwich Village. He is also a Lost Boy of Sudan who learned the game of chess while living in a refugee camp in Kenya. Among other games delivered to the camp by U.N. aid workers, chess pieces and boards arrived one day. As Sudanese soldiers played, Mr. Juac watched carefully. In 2004, after his application for settlement was finally approved, he arrived in the United States. On this day at Pingry, in a chess “simul” (simultaneous exhibition) laid out in The Wilf Family Commons of The Carol and Park B. Smith ’50 Middle School, Mr. Juac had a captivated audience of 16 students, along with two faculty members, all eagerly trying to match his moves. He also shared the role that chess played—and continues to play—in his life. “Chess helped me to improve my thinking at that time. I didn’t talk much when I was younger. I liked the quiet of the game. I didn’t have to say anything to win.” SUMMER 2017

Balladeers’ Springtime Concert If it’s April, it’s time for the Balladeers! The girls’ select a cappella group has its moment to shine in front of Middle and Upper School students in an annual concert that offers a terrific venue for their talents—perhaps inspiring younger students to become future members of the ensemble. Directed by Jay Winston, the group performed Beyoncé’s “If I Were a Boy” (arranged by Maya Huffman ’18), Marvin Gaye’s and Tammi Terrell’s “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” (also arranged by Maya Huffman ’18), Sixpence None The Richer’s “Kiss Me,” and “The Schuyler Sisters” from the Broadway musical Hamilton.

African American Read-In As it is each February, the Lower School Library was the scene of the National African American Read-In (sponsored by The Black Caucus of the National Council of Teachers of English and endorsed by the International Reading Association), whose purpose is to make literacy a significant part of Black History Month and to celebrate literary works by African American authors. Throughout the day, students in all grades visited the library to hear parents, grandparents, faculty, and staff read picture books by African American authors—subjects included inventor Garrett Morgan, baseball player Jackie Robinson, and civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. “It’s wonderful that our students could hear these stories and see these illustrations,” says Assistant Lower School Director Dr. Sandy Lizaire-Duff P ’25, one of the readers. “To have a whole day devoted to African American authors is awesome. If I could spend all day reading to children, I would!” Lower School Librarian Ann D’Innocenzo says the event has received support and accolades from parents and teachers over the years, with many parents taking time off from work to read to the students. This year, 28 parents and family members participated, many of whom introduced related activities, artifacts, and interesting facts about the subjects of the books.

Three generations from the same family: Ayanna Baynes P ’19, ’29 and Michelle Baynes GP ’19, ’29 as readers, and Christian Baynes ’29 in the audience.

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Students Teach Chinese Culture

Sophomores, juniors, and seniors in the Mandarin IV class taught by Weiwei Yu P ’23, ’26 became teachers themselves when they introduced Chinese culture to fifth-grade students in Cathy Everett’s social studies classes this past February. In groups of four, Lower School students learned about chess, gunpowder, Kung Fu, medicine, mythology, and Chinese tea and its etiquette. Each 10-minute presentation included history of the topic, an interactive activity, and words and phrases in Mandarin. The event was another component of Grade 5’s China unit, which includes social studies, fitness dancing, poetry, character writing, fairy tales, brush paintings, and drama.

SUMMER 2017

Exhibit by Zoe Keramea Greek artist Zoe Keramea, who lives and works in Athens and New York, returned to the Hostetter Arts Center Gallery early this spring (she last appeared at Pingry in 2003). Students were intrigued by her work, which is based on the manipulation of surfaces as she teases viewers to engage their eyes and minds to make sense of the space she creates. Her sculptures, prints, drawings, and ceramics reflect various uses of folded materials and geometric shapes, and many of Ms. Keramea’s patterns evolve as variations of one another. A slideshow of her art included drawings that were incorporated into the branding for the 18th Bieannale of Sydney (2012); the Biennale is an international festival of contemporary art, held every two years in Sydney.

Visit by New York Times Poetry Columnist David Orr Congressman Leonard Lance Speaks to Middle School Sitting in rapt attention in late February, Middle School students learned about the three branches of government from a distinguished guest speaker—Congressman Leonard Lance (R-NJ), a member of the U.S. House of Representatives for New Jersey’s 7th congressional district. His visit to Pingry, made possible by a family connection with a seventh-grade student, coincided with Grade 7’s studies of civic engagement and their letters to members of Congress about issues they researched in class. The Q&A that followed his presentation touched on subjects including how Middle School students can become involved in politics (his answer: write to congressmen and/or senators, volunteer on a campaign, and— most importantly—register to vote at age 18). Civic engagement was also visible in the line of students who waited for the opportunity to speak with Rep. Lance individually. Indeed, he made the students feel like the important young adults they are, staying until all of them had been able to converse with him. Rep. Lance’s appearance marked at least his second connection with Pingry. Jamie Ogden ’12 was an intern in his Washington, D.C. office in the summer of 2016. 12

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David Orr, poetry columnist for The New York Times Book Review, author, and a professor at Cornell University, was a guest speaker in “The Ethical Dilemma,” an Upper School English class taught by Director of College Counseling Tim Lear ’92, P ’25, ’27, ’30. Mr. Orr discussed the oddities and multiple meanings of Robert Frost’s poem The Road Not Taken—such as making choices that are unique to you, or making poor choices. “Poetry in the United States became more popular because of Robert Frost, and this poem is one of the most frequently searched-for poems on the web,” he said. “But most people don’t really know what the poem is about because the poem holds—in tension—the notion of choice and the possibility of self-deception.”

A Taste of Pingry

Competition finalists Avery Didden ’19, Jenny Coyne ’18, Rachel Chen ’18, Jordan Taylor ’18, Alyssa Chen ’18, and Meghan Salamon ’18.

Organized by Pingry’s Department of Diversity & Inclusion in collaboration with the PSPA, the third annual A Taste of Pingry took place on May 21—an outdoor celebration of cuisine, music, and heritage within Pingry’s diverse community. Attendees sampled an array of foods from various cultures represented at Pingry, prepared by over 70 families; played games led by Director of Middle School Athletics Gerry Vanasse P ’14, ’20; and enjoyed live performances, dancing and entertainment by Chinese dancers, a Mariachi Band, a traditional Spanish band, Japanese drummers, master Face Change artist Li Peng, a group of Buttondowns and Balladeers, and much more. Many attendees dressed in traditional attire representative of their family’s culture and heritage. The organizers thank everyone who generously donated food and/or their time.

LeBow Competition Pingry’s annual Dr. Robert H. LeBow ’58 Memorial Oratorical Competition for sophomores and juniors took place in February. Out of six finalists, Rachel Chen ’18 won the event for the second consecutive year with her “Open Letter to the Class of 2020,” encouraging them to defy adolescent cultural norms when making friends. They should not seek to blend in with a group by way of hating the same things, being critics, and making fun of other people. Instead, students should root for their peers, be enthusiastic, and devote themselves to worthy causes. Avery Didden ’19 was named runner-up for her speech about people’s stories, which let us examine society. The competition was funded in 2005 through the generosity of Pingry’s Class of 1958, led by the late William Hetfield, in memory of their classmate. Dr. LeBow was an accomplished public speaker who addressed audiences worldwide about the need for health care reform. He published Health Care Meltdown: Confronting the Myths and Fixing Our Failing System, a book drawn from his public speaking engagements. Also attending the event were Dr. LeBow’s first cousin, Dr. Richard Weiss ’55, GP ’17, ’18, ’21, Dr. Weiss’ wife, Dr. Sandra Harmon-Weiss GP ’17, ’18, ’21, and Dr. Jim Smith ’58.

PSPA’s Spring Soirée The Pingry School Parents’ Association held its annual benefit on the Basking Ridge Campus in April. Attended by hundreds of parents, faculty, and staff, the evening included an exhibit of over 100 pieces of student art from all three divisions, live and silent auctions (items included tickets to sporting events and musicals), a golf competition with a golf simulator, a fashion show featuring the Class of 2017, and catering by David Ellis Events. The PSPA thanks the many parent volunteers whose time, energy, and expertise helped make the event such a success—including Co-Chairs Lori Halivopoulos ’78, P ’23 and Amy Saunders P ’19—as well as the sponsors and auction donors. Supporting the Spring Soirée helps the PSPA to host community-building events throughout the school year, such as Friday Night Lights, the Lower School Book Fair, and A Taste of Pingry. SUMMER 2017

ARCHITECTURE OF IMPACT Touring the Miller A. Bugliari ’52 Athletics Center

At long last, after years of planning, fundraising, and construction, Pingry opened the Miller A. Bugliari ’52 Athletics Center (BAC) in January—a venue where the entire Pingry community can engage in physical activity. It features a state-of-the-art strength and conditioning center to benefit all Pingry students, faculty, and staff; a sports arena to provide a home for Pingry’s wrestling and fencing teams and practice space for many others; and eight squash courts for Pingry’s nationallyranked boys’ and girls’ teams so they can finally practice and compete on their own campus. The BAC also houses a permanent, physical home for the Pingry Athletics Hall of Fame, complete with digitized access to all teams, dating back to 1886. Indeed, the BAC is designed to connect the School’s past, present, and future by creating a space where former athletes, coaches, and other community members can reminisce; by inspiring students to train for competition, participate in athletics, and accomplish their goals; and by capturing the attention of prospective student-athletes. This 45,300-square-foot facility—about which much has been dreamed and written—is open and ready to explore. In the following pages, we hope you will enjoy a tour of the BAC. You will discover what this astonishing new facility looks like and learn from members of the Pingry community how the BAC has benefited them. Plus, we also give you a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of one of the building’s most unique spaces, the Athletics Hall of Fame, a fitting tribute to Pingry’s renowned athletes, coaches, and teams of the past. As Coach Bugliari ’52 said when he was asked to describe the building in one word: “Wow!”

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SUMMER 2017

GREIG FAMILY STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING CENTER

Helen Huang-Hobbs Upper School chemistry teacher, early morning fitness guru “I used the old fitness center [in the main building], and the difference between it and the new strength and conditioning center in the BAC is remarkable. The facilities were nice before; now they’re fantastic. What has made the biggest difference is working with Mary [Drabich, Morning Wellness Coordinator and Auxiliary Programs Assistant]. She built me a whole training plan.I go in every morning at 6:00 a.m., before classes begin. Exercise allows me to refocus and take care of myself. Having the BAC on campus has really helped with that.”

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Obi Nnaeto ’18 Varsity Football Team, Varsity Track & Field Team Athletics highlight: His junior year, Obi made the All-Defensive First Team for the Mid-State 38 Conference, and, scoring two touchdowns, was instrumental in Big Blue’s 27-26 home victory over Roselle Park last fall. “We weren’t sure what the BAC was going to look like until we walked into it for the first time. Outside, it looks like a warehouse, but you walk in and see the Athletics Hall of Fame and it’s like, ‘Wow, this is an arena!’ I use the new strength and conditioning center three to four times a week in the off-season, and, during the track season, we use it twice a week. The space is a big convenience. There are so many more machines, it’s open late, and there are five coaches who will help to facilitate your workouts. They make sure you have a certain level of intensity. The center has the kind of equipment top athletes use. Seeing that type of stuff in your weight room definitely makes you want to work harder.”

SUMMER 2017

EQUIPMENT IN THE GREIG FAMILY STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING CENTER STRENGTH 10,000 extra pounds of iron grip plates (in addition to the 10,000 pounds of iron grip plates that Pingry already had) 5,000 pounds of Eleiko bumper plates 2 sets of dumbbells ranging from 5 pounds to 100 pounds (Black Iron Strength; antimicrobial) 14 Pendulum adjustable benches 10 Pendulum racks with wood platforms 10 Eleiko barbells 10 Intek trap bar deadlifts 6 five-way neck machines 4 leg presses (Pendulum hip presses) 3 glute-ham raises 2 leg extensions/leg curls 2 squat machines (Pendulum Squat Pro) 2 Pendulum lat pulldowns 2 Pendulum shoulder incline press machines 2 Pendulum chest presses 2 Pendulum grip machines 1 Pendulum seated row 1 multi-column power stack

CARDIO 4 Woodway Curve treadmills (non-motorized; high-speed) 2 Keiser spin bikes 2 Cybex arc trainers 1 Concept2 rower

Look for an article about Pingry’s Strength and Conditioning Program in the fall issue!

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Maddy Shilts ’17 Girls’ Varsity Fencing captain, Varsity Softball Athletics highlight: On February 2, Maddy and her fencing team advanced to the quarterfinals of the NJSIAA “Sweet 16,” in which the top four teams from each of the state’s five districts square off. “Having our own practice space in the BAC arena is freeing. We’re not a big team, so we don’t take up a lot of space, but that closet [the space behind the Attic Theatre, where the team used to practice] gets cramped really fast. It really limited our mobility. And now, because our practices are in such a centralized location, faculty and students who might be in the BAC for more popular sports walk by the fencing area, which helps increase our exposure to the community. Hopefully, that will get more kids interested in the program. I know future generations of Pingry fencers will benefit from the space, and I’m really grateful for that. They won’t have to go through six years in the storage closet!”

FENCING IN THE NEWHOUSE FAMILY SPORTS ARENA

SUMMER 2017

WRESTLING IN THE NEWHOUSE FAMILY SPORTS ARENA

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Frankie Dillon ’17 Varsity Wrestling captain, Boys’ Varsity Lacrosse Athletics highlight: The first Big Blue wrestler in 12 years to advance to the 2017 state tournament in Atlantic City. “There really wasn’t enough room for us to practice on the mats in the Multipurpose Room. I felt like I wasn’t able to work as hard some of the time—you can’t train with the same intensity when you are on the side, off the mats. With the large arena in the BAC, we’re able to fit larger mats, and we can all wrestle at once, which definitely improved the amount of work being done in the room last season. It’s good to have a space that’s just our own.”

SUMMER 2017

LOVETT GYM

Mary Pagano ’17 Varsity Field Hockey captain, Girls’ Varsity Basketball captain, Girls’ Varsity Lacrosse captain Athletics highlight: A 12-time Big Blue letter winner, Mary recently netted her 200th career goal in lacrosse. “After sharing the gym space in the main building with other teams for so long, it’s great to walk into the Lovett Gym and know that you have space for your whole team. Now, the field hockey and lacrosse teams can run more drills all together, since we had limited space before and could only practice in small groups. It’s also great to be able to use the gym space for practicing in bad weather, whereas before, we would have lost that practice time.”

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Zach Keller ’17 Varsity Basketball captain, Varsity Baseball Athletics highlight: A four-year basketball and baseball player for Pingry, Zach was captain of the basketball team his senior year and named “Best Defensive Player,” all while fulfilling his role as Student Body President. “I regularly use the gym space and the Greig Center, which was great for team lifting—it had a big impact on our strength and conditioning. For baseball, being able to practice in the Lovett Gym when it is cold or raining is a huge upgrade over the Bristol and Hyde & Watson gyms in the main school building. I have a lot of friends who play pick-up basketball during and after school. Because the open gym is so large, it lets lots of people play at one time without any space constraints. Students enjoyed it so much that an after-school ‘league’ formed.”

SUMMER 2017

EIGHT SQUASH COURTS

Renée Chan ’20 Girls’ Varsity Squash Athletics highlight: Renée was part of the girls’ team that earned a national ranking of #18 at the High School Nationals in Simsbury, Connecticut in January. Along with her doubles partner Rachel Chen ‘18, she also placed second in US SQUASH’s Girls’ U19 National Doubles Championship in Wilmington, Delaware in April. “Since fifth grade, I knew there was a project to build new squash courts, but to actually be able to play on the newly-built courts all four years of high school is surreal. The minute I walked into the BAC, the first thing that ran through my head was, ‘Wow, this is really ours, and now we get to show other teams on campus that squash is actually a sport. It’s not a club, it’s not something we do just for fun.’ Every player on the team is very competitive; we all love and enjoy the sport.”

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Meher Khan ’23 Grade 6 P.E. Squash Player “My family likes squash—my grandfather played it—and I’ve been playing for a year. It is serious, but, now, as part of P.E., it’s calming when I play with my friends at school. Living so close to school, I love that I can play the sport five minutes from home now, and I plan to join Pingry’s team next year.”

Ben Tran ’24 Lower School Enrichment Squash Player (the sport was offered for the first time in 2016-17) “When my sister Sabrina ’16 was at Pingry, she played squash for the Middle School team, and that was how I heard and learned about the sport. I want to play squash so I can play and spend time with my sister. I like squash because I can play all year. The Lower School squash enrichment program at the BAC was an opportunity to practice my skills in the sport, while being able to play with my friends and other people in the Pingry community. I am happy Pingry is making squash a more accessible sport.”

Tina Rix Director of Squash, Girls’ Varsity Head Coach and Middle School Squash Coach, Professional squash player, ranked #7 worldwide in doubles “As a coach, it’s great to have access to eight courts for training purposes. It automatically increases numbers and boosts the potential of our teams as we can open up the program to more children. Having more courts for practice, in a beautiful, new facility, is also great for the team as a way to bond and build their team culture. It is an amazing facility, and it is going to be great for the players to be able to practice together every day as a team.”

SUMMER 2017

PINGRY ATHLETICS HALL OF FAME AND LOBBY

For more than two decades, the Pingry Alumni Association (PAA) and the School have been searching for a permanent home for the Pingry Athletics Hall of Fame. Previously, many citations hung in an alcove outside Hyde & Watson Gym. Now, thanks to the reality of the Miller A. Bugliari ’52 Athletics Center, and planning that involved many members of the Pingry community— the Board of Trustees, the PAA Board, administrators, and faculty and staff—the PAA has achieved its vision for a space that truly befits Pingry’s all-star athletes. A state-of-the-art space that serves as the focal point of the lobby, the Athletics Hall of Fame sets the tone of excellence in Pingry athletics, and is certain to elicit pride and ambition in all of those associated with the School. Along with memorabilia from individual and team inductees, the Hall of Fame’s technology is significant: It removes the space constraints inherent in hanging plaques on a wall. With a virtual database accessible through a touch-screen interface, space is limitless! (Read more about this technology in “Pingry Athletics Hall of Fame: Behind the Scenes” on page 29.) The lobby connects Pingry’s past and present: the past, through additional memorabilia, trophies, plaques, and lists of championships and award recipients; and the present, by including display cases that highlight current sports with team highlights, memorabilia, and trophies from recent seasons. Athletic competition is also represented by murals throughout the building. Visitors to the athletics center will notice how seamlessly the Hall of Fame (indeed, the entire lobby) dovetails with the building. Because it is not relegated to a separate room, it is an organic component of the entire facility; it helps to tell a story and makes Pingry’s athletics history as integral to the athletics center as any other space in the building.

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SUMMER 2017

PINGRY ATHLETICS HALL OF FAME AND LOBBY

Above: The â&#x20AC;&#x153;Distinguished Alumniâ&#x20AC;? case recognizes accomplishments in athletics after graduation from Pingry. Some alumni are professional athletes, some have excelled as collegiate athletes and/or coaches, and others have worked for professional teams or organizations around the world. Top: State Championship trophies through the decades. Left: One of the display cases that highlight current sports with team highlights, memorabilia, and trophies. 28

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Kevin Schmidt ’98 Chair, Athletics Hall of Fame Committee Athletics Hall of Fame Inductee (1995 and 1996 Boys’ Soccer Teams) “Walking into the Miller A. Bugliari ’52 Athletics Center, you’re immediately immersed in the Athletics Hall of Fame and its array of visuals. With a multitude of cases and touchscreens allowing you to view old photos and videos, you could spend hours in the space and still not get through everything. The appeal for alumni is, in large part, about friendships, values learned, and great memories—walking through the space and looking through old photos will inevitably take you back to your days at Pingry. It will be an incredible feeling for alumni and coaches who are members of the Hall of Fame to be able to bring their friends and family to the new space and show them firsthand their accomplishments. I’m sure many of our current athletes would love to one day be considered as potential Hall of Fame inductees. With the location and splendor of the new space, that desire will only grow as they pass by the accomplishments of our alumni on a daily basis.”

PINGRY ATHLETICS HALL OF FAME: BEHIND THE SCENES “There was no off-the-shelf product that would do what we wanted with a searchable database of Pingry’s athletes and teams,” says Pingry’s Digital Archivist Peter Blasevick, explaining that the School commissioned the Canadian company Libéo to design a touch-screen interface (CannonDesign designed the wall displays of the Hall of Fame). “It combines our database of all former Pingry athletes with our repository of archival photos*, so we have all people and all teams linked.” This means that searching for an athlete produces a list of every team for which he or she played; searching for a team produces a list of every player on that team; and searching for a sport produces a list of every team in School history. This database goes back to 1886, and all Hall of Fame teams are identified. “It’s very circular, and thus comprehensive,” Mr. Blasevick says. This interactive digital photo archive, certain to elicit a Digital Archivist Peter Blasevick with the searchable database that he helped to create. “wow” reaction from Hall of Fame visitors, resulted from countless hours of work to produce a much-needed historical database. To tell the story of Pingry athletics through both the Hall of Fame and other lobby cases, Mr. Blasevick and a huge team joined forces: the Advancement, Athletics, Communications, and Technology Offices; six Blue Key students who helped to photograph, measure, and catalogue hundreds of trophies; and five interns from the Rutgers School of Communication and Information who entered data. Entering data error-free was of utmost importance because, in Mr. Blasevick’s words, “any collection is only as good as it is findable.” Sources utilized to verify information about athletes and teams include the Blue Book; The Pingry Record; The Pingry Review; season results in the Athletics Office; newspapers from Somerset and Union Counties; Facebook; and Twitter. Because of all this hard work, Mr. Blasevick is proud that the Hall of Fame “accurately and positively represents the history of Pingry athletics. We did a thorough job and were able to collect enough information to make it an exciting and noteworthy place to visit.” The Hall of Fame database is also searchable online at halloffame.pingry.org. * The Hall of Fame includes team pictures that were removed from the hallways in the Upper School athletics wing. The photos were scanned for digital preservation and are stored in acid-free boxes in Pingry’s archives, ready to be used for future displays. The scanned photos are part of the Hall of Fame and are on view on 60-inch monitors in the redesigned athletics hallways. Each monitor features a slideshow of photos from an era of Pingry athletics. SUMMER 2017

MILLER A. BUGLIARI ’52 ATHLETICS CENTER

Watch the video about the impact of the Miller A. Bugliari ’52 Athletics Center: pingry.org/bacdedicationvideo

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IN-HOUSE TALENT TAPPED TO BUILD THE BAC At any given time between January 2016 and January 2017, between 20 and 50 construction professionals worked steadily to bring the Miller A. Bugliari ’52 Athletics Center to fruition. In keeping with a project so large, general contractor Fenton Construction brought in a number of skilled subcontractors to make the state-of-the-art building a reality. But, when it came time to install the complicated electrical wiring for the 45,300-square-foot center, to whom did Fenton turn? A crew of three skilled electricians from Pingry’s Facilities Team. Over the course of the last year, in addition to maintaining normal Pingry operations, John Davey, Bob Burke, and Eric Moore worked tirelessly to wire the building in time for its January opening. “During my seven years at Pingry, I have worked on numerous projects, like the wiring of Beinecke House and renovations of the clock tower, the C.B. Newton Library lobby, and the Bear Pause [Bookstore], among others,” Mr. Davey reports. “But the Athletics Center was, by far, the biggest and most challenging job to date.” At the height of their work, which also involved installing controls for the HVAC, fire alarm, clock, intercom, and card access systems, the three men were putting in close to 10-hour days, plus eight hours on Saturdays. Most of their installation work was spent on lifts that hoisted them 20 to 35 feet in the air. Pingry’s Director of Facilities Mike Waelz, also a licensed electrician, explains that using in-house talent was a cost-saving decision. “The building originally came in a little over budget, so, when asked if we could do the electricity ourselves, I said ‘of course.’” With the exception of the high-voltage work that had to be done outdoors, the three men wired the entire structure, top to bottom. Given the complexity of the facility and the number of underground conduits involved, it was not an easy task. Mr. Waelz estimates that, by doing the work itself, the School saved between $500,000 and $1 million. Along with licensed electricians, the Facilities Team includes other skilled tradespeople, such as carpenters, building technicians, painters, groundskeepers, and even a heavy equipment operator. A highlyskilled Facilities Team that works on construction projects and maintains the campuses is one example of the ways in which Pingry works to achieve operational efficiency and steward its resources. Other examples of operational efficiency initiatives will be examined in future issues.

SUMMER 2017

Philanthropy

“A Fitting Tribute”

Dedication of the Miller A. Bugliari ’52 Athletics Center

“For 58 years, I have tried to contribute a little to the lives of all who have passed through the Pingry doors. Maybe, in some small way, this building will repay a little bit of Pingry’s confidence in me.”

by Pingry teams, students, and faculty following its opening in January.

With these words from the building’s namesake, the Miller A. Bugliari ’52 Athletics Center received its official dedication. On Saturday, May 20, over 500 Pingry donors and athletes were treated to a program honoring Pingry’s storied athletics history and current programs, along with a dedication of the building to Miller Bugliari ’52 himself. One of the most widely-anticipated projects created as a result of the Blueprint for the Future Campaign, the 45,300-square-foot facility has seen constant and enthusiastic use

Headmaster Nat Conard P ’09, ’11, taking the stage, thanked all in attendance and introduced a student-led video that displays the incredible impact of the Bugliari Athletics Center on Pingry student-athletes. “As you can see, we’ve made good on the promise we made when the Campaign launched,” he said. “Athletics are a priority at Pingry—period.”

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On this day, over 500 Pingry community members entered the Bugliari Athletics Center, mingling and meeting with friends old and new. Pingry athletes greeted the guests with enthusiasm, and, when the buzzer sounded, guests took their seats for the day’s programming.

Following the video, Director of Athletics Carter Abbott praised Pingry athletes and coaches for their dedication and passion. She also remarked on the history of

Miller Bugliari ’52, P ’86, ’90, ’97, GP ’20, ’24 with his wife Elizabeth and their sons Boyce ’86, David ’97, and Anthony ’90, P ’20, ’24.

Pingry athletics, from the informal programs espoused by Dr. John Pingry to the remarkable athletes Pingry produces today—and even looking to the future. “If this is how far we’ve come from that barn in Elizabeth,” Mrs. Abbott said, “imagine how far we’ll go.” She also gave a sneak peek into the construction of the tennis courts, track, softball fields, and turf field for football and lacrosse, slated to be finished this autumn. “No other high school in New Jersey can rival the quality of the space we have created, and even few colleges can boast a space that elicits more pride and inspiration,” said Kevin Schmidt ’98, Chair of the Athletics Hall of Fame (AHOF) Committee. He thanked many of the

individuals responsible for helping to create Pingry’s wonderful new AHOF, including Sally and Jim Toffey ’48, who donated the Hall of Fame; Trustee Stuart Lederman ’78 for his work as Chair of the Buildings and Grounds Committee; Trustee Jonathan Wilf ’02 for his work as Chair of the Pingry AHOF Subcommittee; among many others who worked tirelessly to bring the Hall of Fame from a dream to reality. Mr. Schmidt also recognized members of the Pingry Athletics Hall of Fame. Chair of the Board of Trustees Jeff Edwards ’78, P ’12, ’14, ’18 and Blueprint for the Future Campaign Co-Chair Kathy Hugin P ’11, ’13 expressed their thanks to the entire Pingry community for supporting the Bugliari Athletics Center, including the trustees and board members who championed the project during the Blueprint for the Future Campaign, Allie Rooke P ’02, ’04, Jack Brescher ’65,

P ’99, Vicki Brooks P ’02, ’04, those who gave to named spaces within the Athletics Center—and, of course, Miller. “A name steeped in Pingry tradition now adorns this building, which was 10 years in the making,” Mr. Edwards said. “A building, like its namesake, that totally exceeds all expectations.” “The guiding principle for this building was addressing need versus wants,” Mrs. Hugin said. “We determined that the most obvious answer was space for the winter programs.” Wrestling, fencing, and squash all needed a facility to match the competitive level of the teams. This portrait by Alan Brown ’77 was unveiled during the dedication ceremony and now hangs in the athletics center. Mr. Brown, who has also painted Headmasters John Hanly and John Neiswender, has received a top award from The American Artists Professional League. His work is featured in several New Jersey collections, including the Offices of the Supreme Court, and at Dickinson College in Pennsylvania.

Distinguished Alumni in Athletics These alumni were recognized during the dedication ceremony

· · · · · · · · · · ·

Michael Chernoff ’99, Pingry baseball captain and General Manager of the Cleveland Indians. The late Mark Donohue, Jr. ’55, championship-winning auto racer. Dan Kellner ’94, All-American, All-Ivy, Pan-American, and Olympic fencer. The late Dean Mathey ’08, Intercollegiate Tennis Champion and Wimbledon competitor. Mary Moan Swanson ’93, Ivy League Golf Champion and Class A LGPA teacher. Mary Margaret O’Toole ’05, Princeton squash captain and National and Ivy League Champion. Rachel Alice Rochat ’91, Dartmouth Women’s Ice Hockey Captain, Swiss Olympic hockey player and Swiss Championship team member. C. Lee Shelley ’74, National Épée Champion, Pan-American and Olympic fencer; U.S. Fencing Hall of Fame member. Paul Simson ’69, All-American golfer, amateur trifecta winner, and winningest player in North & South/Pinehurst’s 120-year history. Charlie Stillitano, Jr. ’77, 1994 World Cup venue director, former General Manager of NY/NJ MetroStars, Chairman of Relevent Sports Agency, and daily host of The Football Show on Sirius XM. The late Carl Van Duyne ’64, Princeton sailing captain, Pan-American sailor, Olympic contender, and member of the Barnegat Bay Sailing Hall of Fame.

SUMMER 2017

Campaign Co-Chair Stephan F. Newhouse ’65, P ’95, ’97, ’99, who was not able to attend the ceremony, appeared via video, thanking and congratulating those in attendance for helping to make the Bugliari Athletics Center a reality. Mr. Newhouse also called the Bugliari Athletics Center a “powerful statement about Pingry’s continuing commitment to educating the whole person,” as well as “a fitting tribute to an individual whose contribution to Pingry for generations is impossible to overstate.” “How do you even begin to summarize the life of a man who has so finely woven himself into the fabric of Pingry, who represents all the best things the School has to offer, and who has influenced thousands of young men and women for three-quarters of a century?” Mr. Edwards asked. To assist in answering, he called upon three people who could provide a unique insight into Miller: Gary Baum ’63, one of Miller’s first players and captain of Pingry’s first undefeated soccer team; Ollie Martin ’17, one of Miller’s senior athletes; and Miller’s wife Elizabeth. Mr. Baum shared some statistics on Miller’s incredible coaching career, and

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several stories from Miller’s early days coaching Pingry soccer. He commented on Miller’s unusual, but effective, coaching style, and posited that the success of Miller’s early teams “gave [Miller] confidence that he was on the right track.” “Miller will always be Coach to me, but he is also a lifelong friend,” Mr. Baum said. “I can pick up the phone, and the conversation starts like we had talked a few days ago. There are always the old stories, but also the current updates. And laughter, there is always laughter. Coach, thank you for being you.” To provide a more recent perspective playing for Miller, Mr. Baum passed the mic to Ollie, who played for Miller for four years, most recently this past fall. “Coach never lamented over losses or focused too much on winning,” Ollie said. “With the correct mentality of going out, giving it your all, and having fun, the wins would come naturally for Coach’s players.” “Coach never asked for respect from his players…rather, he demanded it through his serious demeanor. Coach never asked for friendship from his players, either… rather, he received it through his playful

demeanor. For what you have done for myself and my brothers during our journey to becoming men, I could never thank you enough, Coach.” Mrs. Bugliari gave a unique insight into Miller’s natural genius and empathy, which have enabled him to form and maintain relationships with thousands of Pingry graduates—not to mention their families and friends—throughout the years. She also shared humorous and touching family anecdotes. “After 52 years of marriage to this remarkable man—and all these years as a family— we love him now more than ever, and we have been proud to share him with all of you all these years.” “I know that many of you, through your wonderful generosity, are in some way responsible for the existence of this amazing athletics facility,” Mrs. Bugliari said. “Your love, your loyalty, your respect for this man are evident in every brick, and the Bugliari family salutes each and every one of you for giving back to your school, Pingry, in his honor.” The audience in the Newhouse Family Sports Arena.

Bugliari Athletics Center:

Apruzzese Family Fountain

Stories Behind the Names Prior to the dedication ceremony, Headmaster Nat Conard P ’09, ’11 and Director of Athletics Carter Abbott led a tour of the Bugliari Athletics Center named spaces, thanking donors and their families and leading a ribbon-cutting ceremony to dedicate each space individually. Over 500 community members made this ambitious project possible, and among those were 23 gifts made by individuals, families, and groups to name a space in the Miller A. Bugliari ’52 Athletics Center.

Miller Bugliari ’52, P ’86, ’90, ’97, GP ’20, ’24 cutting the ribbon for the athletics center as his wife Elizabeth and Headmaster Nat Conard P ’09, ’11 look on.

Don Apruzzese ’78, Vincent Apruzzese P ’76, ’78, ’80, ’85, GP ’06, ’08, Dana Apruzzese ’06, and John Apruzzese ’76, P ’06, ’08.

With over eight members connected to Pingry, the Apruzzese family has become part of the fabric of the School, and of Pingry athletics in particular. Vincent Apruzzese P ’76, ’78, ’80, ’85, GP ’06, ’08 served on the Board of Trustees for 17 years, assisting with Pingry’s move to Basking Ridge. His late wife Sandy helped to found the Mothers’ Association, the precursor to today’s Pingry School Parents’ Association, in addition to designing and hand-stitching the original “Big Blue” bear mascot in 1979. The Sandy Apruzzese Big Blue Award, established in 2016, recognizes the spirit of enthusiasm, leadership, and community focus that Sandy embodied. The Apruzzese Family Fountain bears a plaque containing the inscription: “Winners never quit and quitters never win!” SUMMER 2017

Bhavnani Viewing Area

him, and Julia Cipriano ’08. My father was very supportive of Pingry athletics, and I wanted to honor and to thank him. Miller was a tremendous, positive influence on my life. This building is a culmination of Coach Bugliari’s career at Pingry and encapsulates all of the tremendous influence he’s had on all of the students.”

Clark and Vera Family Court

Dr. Anita and Sunil Bhavnani P ’09, ’11, ’18.

The Bhavnani family has been involved with Pingry squash for over 10 years. “Our oldest two boys, Shivan ’09 and Avinash ’11, initially played tennis,” says Anita. “But once they found squash, they found their passion and played all throughout high school and into college. It was only natural for our youngest, Krish ’18, to pick up the racquet —at seven years old! The level of athleticism and sportsmanship that squash has imparted has had a profound influence. It has taught them to train hard, trust themselves, referee fairly, and win and lose gracefully…lessons that will serve them well their whole lives.”

Cipriano Coaches Office

Helen Vera and Kent Clark P ’15, ’20.

For former trustee Kent Clark and wife Helen Vera P ’15, ’20, Pingry had a great deal to offer their children Stephanie ’15 and Stuart ’20. “To supplement the great academic programs at Pingry, we wanted to support athletics, particularly squash,” says Helen. “As a family, we’re huge fans of the sport. Stephanie played on the varsity team for three years, and Stuart plays recreationally. A great thing about squash is that it’s fun to pick up and play, but it’s also a lifetime sport.” The family is thrilled with the opportunities that the new courts present for, in Helen’s words, “efficient squash”—by having courts on campus, Pingry’s squash team will spend more time playing and practicing and less time on the road, and a new generation of students is being exposed to the sport.

Class of 1979 Courtyard

Dana Betts, Peter Cipriano ’06, Rose Cipriano P ’74, GP ’06, ’08, Guy Cipriano ’74, P ’06, ’08, and Debbie Cipriano.

As an accomplished squash player, alumnus, and parent of alumni, Guy Cipriano ’74, P ’06, ’08 has a family history of excellence in Pingry athletics. “My son was one of the first players when Pingry started the squash team,” he recalls. “Many of the young people who started on that first team were his very close friends. Some of the other parents and I wanted to take the initiative so that they would have a great experience playing squash at the interscholastic level. I knew Ramsay [Vehslage, Varsity Squash Coach], and we approached him to coach the team.” Guy’s gift honors two people—his father, and Miller. “My father was my hero,” he says. “He was the father of a Pingry alumnus, just as I am the father of two: Peter Cipriano ’06, who is named after 36

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Director of Athletics Carter Abbott, Thomas Trynin ’79, Christopher Bartlett ’79, Anne DeLaney ’79, P ’09, ’11, ’14, ’14, Miller Bugliari ’52, P ’86, ’90, ’97, GP ’20, ’24, Philip Lovett ’79, John Holman III ’79, P ’09, ’11,’14, and Steven Lipper ’79, P ’09, ’12, ’14.

This gift was made by Class of ’79 members Christopher Bartlett, Anne DeLaney, John Holman III, Robert King, Steven Lipper, Philip Lovett, Thomas Trynin, and Leighton Welch with additional gifts made anonymously in memory of the late John Michaud. Six of these donors played on Miller’s 1978 soccer team, which went undefeated in the regular season and made it to the prep final. Four members of the Class of ’79 are current Pingry Board members, and the class has remained highly active and engaged overall. “For this gift,” says John Holman, “it is particularly appropriate that we acted together, since so much of athletics is a product of cooperation, collaboration, and self-sacrifice. Pingry celebrates and promotes these traits for good reason: the ability to play well with others is essential to having a positive impact on the world.” This class gift honors Miller’s influence, decades-long friendships, his service to Pingry, the love that the classmates share for him, and the fact that the athletics center will help female athletes excel at their sports.

Basketball Hoops System Given by the Curnins Director of Athletics Carter Abbott with Brad Bonner ’93 and Alex Bonner P ’20, ’23, ’25, James Draper ’20, and Douglas Bonner ’25.

“This will be a facility with long-term benefits for the school,” adds Delphine. “It’s not just because of our grandchildren—all students will use the facility and reap the benefits.”

The Flowerman Family Scoreboard

Thomas and Brenda Curnin P ’17 with Director of Athletics Carter Abbott.

The Curnins are a family of athletes and enjoy many sports as a family, including skiing, scuba diving, tennis, and equestrian sports. “We also love team sports,” says Brenda Curnin. “They are so important to be involved with during school; it’s an experience that cannot be duplicated later on in life.” Tom and Brenda have encouraged their children to be dedicated to sports throughout school and into college, and hope that their gift will encourage other Pingry students to do the same. Daughter Charlotte ’17 played two varsity sports all four of her years in the Upper School, and she played three varsity sports her junior year. In college, she will play lacrosse in a Division III program. The Curnins feel that the Miller A. Bugliari ’52 Athletics Center was “a giant step in the right direction” for Pingry athletics. “We are happy to support these efforts at Pingry so the School can attract more New Jersey student-athletes and increase school spirit.”

Daft Family Foundation Changing Room Delphine Daft GP ’20, ’23, ’25 first got to know Pingry through daughter Alex and son-in-law Brad Bonner ’93, P ’20, ’23, ’25. The Daft Family Foundation decided to make a gift to the Miller A. Bugliari ‘52 Athletics Center. “I think that physical activity is very important for the general well-being of all children,” says Delphine, who is herself a former teacher. “Everybody needs to have some exercise. I think if it can be done within the school, using the best equipment and facilities, that certainly makes it easier.” James ’20 is involved with the JV and Varsity Football teams as well as lacrosse. Elizabeth ’23 is in middle school and Douglas ’25 will be on the campus in 2018.

Headmaster Nat Conard P ’09, ’11 and Paul Flowerman P ’04, ’07.

“My Pingry education shaped me in meaningful, important ways,” says Pingry lifer Seth Flowerman ’04. “The experiences of coming up through the Lower School—the formative years there—working with great teachers and coaches like Miller and David Fahey, and being part of a State Championship Team during my time on the soccer team taught so many life lessons.” Brother Zac Flowerman ’07, who came to Pingry in Grade 7 and with whom he has made this gift, had a similar experience. “Pingry sets kids up for success in life,” says Zac. “I absolutely love the School. I had a great time playing football, and, when I switched to wrestling, that absolutely shaped me as a person. It was life-changing.” The Flowermans have been involved with the athletics center from the very beginning—largely because of their positive experiences with Pingry athletics. Seth says that, when the project became the Miller A. Bugliari ’52 Athletics Center, “I was thrilled to increase my contribution to honor Miller in that way.” Zac is glad that he was able to support the efforts to give wrestling its own space. SUMMER 2017

Greig Family Strength and Conditioning Center

academic obligations, has a lot to do with the skills she learned at Pingry.” For Big Blue, Madeline played field hockey and lacrosse, and captained the ski team; Mairead plays both soccer and lacrosse. “Athletics have played a key role in our girls’ lives in a very positive way, so it’s important to us that Pingry has the finest athletics facilities possible,” says Jennifer. “Mairead and the girls’ lacrosse team have already benefitted from the training opportunities the Bugliari Athletics Center provides, and we’re all particularly happy that it’s a multifunctional facility that can really benefit every single Pingry student, as well as the larger community.”

Coaches Changing Room Given by the Key Family

Director of Athletics Carter Abbott, Thomas Greig III P ’94, ’98, ’00, Lauren (Washychyn) Greig ’00 (holding Charlie Greig), Finn Greig, Andrew Greig ’00, Miller Bugliari ’52, P ’86, ’90, ’97, GP ’20, ’24, David Greig ’98 (holding Farrell Greig), Callahan Greig, Sarah Greig, and Lachlan Greig.

The Greig family’s history at Pingry is firmly rooted in athletics. Thomas Greig ’94, David Greig ’98, Andrew Greig ’00, and Lauren (Washychyn) Greig ’00 each played three sports during their time at Pingry. “Athletics and sports were a great part of our experience,” recalls David. “Our parents recognized that, and, since they wanted to support the School in some way, athletics seemed like a good fit.” Here, David is actually referring to the original Greig Fitness Center, which has been migrated from its location in the main Upper School building and upgraded in the Miller A. Bugliari ’52 Athletics Center. “As a family, we recognized that all of the amenities we enjoyed at Pingry had been contributed by previous generations who supported the School. Because we’ve directly benefitted from those previous gifts, it only felt right to pay it forward to the benefit of future generations.”

Higgins Family Entrance

Nigel and Laurie Key P ’12, ’14.

The Key brothers entered Pingry’s Lower School in Grade 3; since then, Dylan ’12 and Evan ’14 played for Pingry teams. Dylan played lacrosse and soccer, becoming captain of both his senior year; Evan, a 12-letter, six-time captain, played lacrosse, basketball, and football. Both continued to play lacrosse at Dartmouth College. “I feel like I’ve sat in every venue at Pingry, watching sports nonstop,” mother Laurie says of her sons’ time at the School. “We had a lot of great experiences on the sports side of things—that definitely ties in to why we wanted to contribute.” The family’s support recognizes the amazing coaches who had such a profound impact on their boys. Laurie describes Coach Miller Bugliari as the most amazing individual you could play for. “And, of course, Coach Webster, Coach Shilts, and Coach Murdock—we dearly love them as well, and it means a lot to know that they will benefit greatly from the building.”

Coaches Changing Room Given by the LaCorte Family

Headmaster Nat Conard P ’09, ’11 with Jennifer and Patrick Higgins P ’12, ’18.

Patrick and Jennifer Higgins are the parents of two Pingry lifers: Madeline ’12 and Mairead ’18. “We were looking for the best opportunity for our daughters,” says Jennifer, “and Pingry has delivered on every level. Madeline graduated extremely well prepared for college. At Georgetown, she was a four-year member and senior captain of the 14-time National Championship sailing team. Her ability to handle the athletic commitment of a two-season sport, as well as her 38

THE PINGRY REVIEW

Karen and Dr. Bill LaCorte ’66.

Dr. Bill LaCorte ’66 entered Pingry as an eighth-grade student, and remembers it as an “inspiring institution.” “I wanted to give back to the institution that, more than college or med school, helped me succeed in life.” Bill credits Miller, who taught him biology at Pingry, with instilling a lifelong love of learning. “He was so animated,” recalls Bill. “He really stood out in the classroom; with his great sense of humor, he made learning enjoyable, and he became involved in the daily life of all of his students.” Calling himself an “adopted athlete” of Miller’s, Bill was the captain of Pingry’s wrestling team, ran cross country, and was a pole vaulter. “I realize the importance of athletics programs to the total education and development of a student,” he says. “The lessons in athletics are as important as classroom lessons, including a sense of responsibility, how to deal with victory and defeat, and, most importantly, resilience.”

Changing Room Given by the Lan Family

Rad Lovett ’78, Miller Bugliari ’52, P ’86, ’90, ’97, GP ’20, ’24, and Phil Lovett ’79.

experiences at Harvard and beyond. It’s no surprise, then, that Miller was a driving force behind the naming of the Lovett Gym. “I want to express how grateful I am to Mr. Bugliari for his friendship, loyalty, care, teaching, and coaching. He’s a great man,” says Phil. “I also want to express how grateful I am for what Pingry did for me—the lifelong friendships I formed, the education I received, and the confidence I gained while at Pingry.” “It’s an honor to contribute to this athletics center that’s been named after Miller,” adds Rad. “He’s been such a great influence and friend over the years, and my brother and I thought this was a great way to thank him.”

Richard Lan P ’02, ’07, ’07, Miller Bugliari ’52, P ’86, ’90, ’97, GP ’20, ’24, Travis Lan ’02 (holding Bodey Lan), Ashley Kazmerowski Lan ’02, and Logan Lan.

For Richard Lan and his wife, former trustee and PSPA President LeeAnne, their history at Pingry spans 21 years and four children: Travis ’02, Austin ’07, Elizabeth ’07, and Cameron ’09. “Travis actually married his high school sweetheart [Ashley J. Kazmerowski Lan ’02],” remarks Richard. “We’ve met so many other great families and great faculty members in our time with Pingry.” The decision to send all four children to Pingry, Richard explains, was one of balance. “Many public schools don’t have the balance between sports, arts, and academics that Pingry has—the public schools tend to emphasize academics, while the students seem solely focused on athletics. We wanted a place where students and faculty were focused on all three.” As for the decision to support the athletics center, the Lan family agrees that it was “100% about Miller.” “I think he’s one of the finest, most extraordinary human beings. I’m so glad that all four of my children got to know him, and that two of them were coached by him,” Richard says.

Changing Room Given by the Lucciola Family ’11, ’13, ’15, ’17, ’17 Mike and Helen Lucciola have had five children pass through Pingry’s halls: Michael ’11, Matthew ’13, Christopher ’15, and twins John ’17 and Natalie ’17. “The best part about Pingry is the people—people who really care about educating children and helping them to reach their full potential,” Mike says. For the Lucciolas, there is one such person who stands out more than any other. “Many great people at Pingry have done a lot for my kids, but Miller is unique; he’s the fabric of Pingry,” Mike says. “Christopher and John both played for Miller—but even those who haven’t played for him learn from him. Educating was his passion, and he offers himself and all of his resources—his enthusiasm, his passion for life, his passion for history, his boundless energy, and his genuine desire to see people succeed—it’s remarkable.”

Lovett Gym Brothers Phil Lovett ’79 and Rad Lovett ’78 entered Pingry at the same time—Phil in Grade 8 and Rad in Grade 9—with sister Lauren matriculating into the Lower School a few years later. In many ways, the two brothers had similar experiences: playing soccer, making lots of lifelong friends, and taking Form III Biology with Miller. Both Lovett brothers credit Pingry with engaging them academically, challenging them to become critical thinkers, and ultimately leading to excellent

Mike and Helen Lucciola P ’11, ’13, ’15, ’17, ’17. SUMMER 2017

McManus Family Scoreboard

John and Rosemary McManus are the parents of two Pingry graduates and one current Pingry student: Allie ’14, Emilia ’16, and Matthew ’21. “Both Rosemary and I come from similar backgrounds,” says John, “where educational achievement, athletics, and volunteerism are key.” When choosing a school for their children, the McManuses sought a school that reflected those values: “Pingry represented the complete package.” Additionally, the McManus children say that it is the teachers and coaches who set the school apart from its peers, preparing them for success beyond their time at Pingry, at Johns Hopkins and Notre Dame. Director of Athletics Carter Abbott with When asked to donate to Rosemary and John McManus P ’14, ’16, ’21. the Miller A. Bugliari ’52 Athletics Center, John and Rosemary didn’t hesitate. “We believe so strongly in Pingry that, when the administration demonstrated it would enhance the quality of life for the Pingry community, we were honored to participate.” Both Allie and Emilia were accomplished varsity athletes, and Matthew plays three sports in the Middle School. Most importantly, Rosemary and John wish for their children to advance the tradition of giving back. Allie was on the Senior Giving Committee; Emilia was the first to receive the Sandy Apruzzese Big Blue Award for her willingness to place the good of the team before her personal goals.

As Co-Chairman of Pingry’s Blueprint for the Future Campaign, Honorary Trustee Stephan F. Newhouse ’65, P ’95, ’97, ’99 was an invaluable asset in raising funds for all of Pingry’s priorities, including the Miller A. Bugliari ’52 Athletics Center. Together with his wife Judy, he is the parent of three Pingry alumni: Stephan P. ’99, Christopher ’97, and James ’95. His older brother Bob graduated in 1964. “Five Newhouses have graduated from Pingry,” says Steve ’65, “and athletics was an important part of the Pingry experience for all of us. The Bugliari Athletics Center is very tangible evidence that Pingry still believes, as my family does, that it still is essential to provide an education that develops character and values as well as the intellect. We are pleased that the Newhouse Family Sports Arena will provide an all-weather practice and competition space for our teams and a permanent home for fencing and wrestling, not to mention the addition of squash courts, an unusual feature for a country day school and a great attraction for prospective students.” He adds, “Miller’s relationships with generations of Pingry students and parents are unique, and his efforts during the campaign were nothing less than Herculean. I have known Miller for almost 60 years. My family and I are proud to consider him a friend and to have played some small part in creating this fitting tribute to him.”

O’Toole Family Court, Viewing Area & Squash Wall of Excellence

Newhouse Family Sports Arena Terry and Polly O’Toole P ’05, ’08, Maggie O’Toole ’05, and Brian O’Toole ’08.

The O’Toole family has a long history with Pingry squash, starting with Maggie ’05, one of the original 11 players when squash became a club at Pingry in the 2002-03 season. She then went to Princeton University, playing on three national championship teams and two Ivy League championship teams in addition to making captain in her senior year. Brother Brian ’08, who captained the Boys’ Squash Team at Pingry in his senior year, likewise went on to play at Dartmouth and made captain in his senior year. Their parents, former trustee Terry O’Toole and his wife Polly, were among the families who were instrumental in establishing squash at Pingry.

Headmaster Nat Conard P ’09, ’11, Miller Bugliari ’52, P ’86, ’90, ’97, GP ’20, ’24, Judy Newhouse P ’95, ’97, ’99, and Chris Newhouse ’97. 40

THE PINGRY REVIEW

Terry and Polly’s lead gifts and challenges inspired others to give, raising significant funds for squash and allowing Pingry to build the current eight courts and impressive facilities. The O’Toole family’s commitment to Pingry’s squash program is evident in their contribution to the Miller A. Bugliari ’52 Athletics Center with the O’Toole Family Court, the O’Toole Family Viewing Area, and the Squash Wall of Excellence. “We wanted to support the project as enthusiastically as we could,” says Terry. The family believes the new courts capitalize on past successes and pave the way for future generations of Pingry squash players. “Pingry should be proud that, after soccer, squash probably has the highest number of graduates playing for great schools at the college level.”

Robert Pyle ’56 Viewing Area

Laura Pyle Brunton ’91 and Bob Pyle ’56, P ’91.

Few people have been more instrumental than former trustee and past PAA President Robert Pyle ’56, P ’91 in bringing squash to Pingry. About 50 years ago, Bob asked then-Headmaster Charles Atwater about the possibility of raising money for squash courts, but was told that any money raised by the School would go toward the endowment and increasing faculty salaries. Fourteen years ago, he and two other former trustees contacted Drew University with a request to use its squash facilities in an arrangement that would prove “mutually advantageous to both schools,” and jump-started Pingry’s squash program alongside Terry O’Toole P ’05, ’08; Guy Cipriano ’74, P ’06, ’08; and Coach Ramsay Vehslage. Now the long-awaited dream of squash courts at Pingry has been realized. “I have two abiding feelings in this regard: my affection for Pingry and my love and passion, really, for the game of squash. With the new courts, Pingry students will have the opportunity to learn and play this fabulous game, something that I never had the chance to do when I was their age.”

and, now that their children have moved on, they have reason to sit back and think fondly of Pingry and their family’s experiences at the School. “The reason for our gift was twofold,” says Carl P ’06, ’15. “We wanted to address a real need for the School and to express our gratitude for the tremendous education that our children received. It’s hard to exaggerate how well Pingry prepares its students for the future— not just for college, but for life.” Collin Wen ’20, who joined Pingry in Grade 4, played squash in Middle School; he has finished his first season of varsity squash at Pingry. The team went to the High School National Championship in February and placed 10th in the country! “It was a wonderful experience for him,” says mother Winnie. The family has benefitted as well, discovering a particular connection to the close-knit squash community, thanks to Collin’s involvement. His interest has rubbed off on his younger brother Evan ’23, who joined Pingry as a fifth-grade student last year and went to the Middle School National Championship this past January. “Both,” says Winnie, “like all their fellow Pingry students, are enjoying the new athletics center very much!” With the Ruggieros having departed from Pingry and the Wens recently embarking on their journey, the new squash court represents, respectively, a parting legacy and an immediate benefit. The two families, however, are united in their desire to give back to Pingry.

Pingry Athletics Hall of Fame and Lobby Given by Sally and Jim Toffey ’48

Ruggiero/Wen Court

Sally and Jim Toffey ’48.

Eddie and Winnie Wen P ’20, ’23, Evan Wen ’23, Allie Ruggiero ’15, and Sandra and Carl Ruggiero P ’06, ’15.

It would be easy for Carl and Sandra Ruggiero to cherish their memories of Pingry and look ahead to the future. Allie ’15, their second child to pass through the School’s hallways and who now attends Georgetown University, and Carl Ruggiero, Jr. ’06, a Stanford Law School graduate, were both involved in Pingry athletics—Allie in squash and Carl ’06 in water polo, swimming, and lacrosse. For 15 years, they have been an active, involved, and supportive family in the Pingry community,

Jim Toffey ’48 and his wife Sally share a love of Pingry that goes back over 70 years, especially because so many of their friendships can be traced to the School. “The Hall of Fame jumped right out at me and Sally,” Jim says. “Right when you walk in, it’s that ‘Welcome Home’ kind of space.” Despite having known Miller since their school days, Jim still puzzles over the “secret potion” that contributed to his old friend’s success. “Miller sees the entire person, not just the athlete,” suggests Sally. “He’s got something really remarkable,” agrees Jim, “and it shows in his ability to maintain relationships with students throughout the rest of their lives.” Jim concludes, “You talk about the value of teams—it’s a complete dedication to one another. That’s what sports are all about.” SUMMER 2017

Perennial Pingry Fund Support from Bugliari Athletics Center Donors

Korth Family Entrance With two children currently at Pingry and one recently graduated, Tim and Theresa Korth P ’16, ’20, ’21 wanted to “give back to a school that has given our children a great education, opportunities, and friendships—with their peers, teachers, and coaches.” The Korths’ history at Pingry started with their son Patrick ’16, who entered Pingry in Grade 9. “We were extremely pleased with Patrick’s high school experience at Pingry. When Patrick stated that he wished he had gone to Pingry for Middle School, we encouraged Matthew ’20 and Emily ’21 to enter Pingry in Grade 6,” explains Theresa. The Korth family shares a keen interest in athletics: Patrick having played on the varsity soccer and lacrosse teams, even making it to the lacrosse state championships in his senior year; Matthew enjoying soccer and lacrosse at the high school level; and Emily finding her love of field hockey at Pingry. “Our children have been very involved with athletics at Pingry, and with Miller personally—it was an easy decision for our family to participate in the athletics facility,” says Tim. In addition to their named gift to the Miller A. Bugliari ’52 Athletics Center, the Korths have prioritized The Pingry Fund and included future gifts to the annual fund as part of their campaign pledge. Their generosity to Pingry started with a gift to The Pingry Fund during their first year as Pingry parents, and Theresa, who has volunteered with The Pingry Fund for the past four years, recognizes 42

THE PINGRY REVIEW

Left: Theresa and Tim Korth P ’16, ’20, ’21. Right: Peter Wolfson P ’15, ’18, Alex Wolfson ’15, Owen Wolfson ’18, and Marsha Wolfson P ’15, ’18.

the impact that the annual fund has on the School. The importance of giving back has been passed on to Patrick, who participated in making a gift alongside his classmates during his senior year. “When we first came to visit Pingry, the small class sizes and the way that the students and teachers interacted by having open discussions in the classroom—we both found that really appealing,” says Theresa. “We wanted to make a gift to a school that is so important to our family, and that has given us so much. We wanted to do our part in giving back.”

Changing Room Given by the Wolfson Family For Peter and Marsha Wolfson P ’15, ’18, their sons’ experiences at Pingry were of the utmost importance to their development. “It’s very exciting that Pingry’s commitment to athletics is being reinforced with the new facility,” says Peter. Alex ’15 came to Pingry as a swimmer and competed on the varsity team, but picked up golf as well and earned another varsity letter. Owen ’18 is focused on soccer, though he had fun as a member of the squash team one year. In making their named gift to the Miller A. Bugliari ’52 Athletics Center, the Wolfsons knew exactly why they wanted to support Pingry athletics. “The great friendships our boys have developed, the selfesteem and confidence they gained,

and, of course, exposure to great coaches like Joe Forte, Steve Droste, David Fahey, Jeff Patten, Ramsay Vehslage, Miller Bugliari, and others…it’s all of those things,” says Peter. “Pingry athletics has meant so much to our boys and our family. But most of all, our support recognizes the special person that Miller is. The chance to get to know him and to see the positive influence that he has on the kids translated to something that we very much wanted to support. We are honored to support his legacy.” The Wolfsons believe that, together with academics and the arts, athletics provide opportunities for learning and personal development. “Our boys will also have each taken three years of photography at Pingry,” adds Marsha. “That well-roundedness really helps them develop as complete people. Being in the classroom, having great teachers who care about them, and then participating in athletics and learning the values of good sportsmanship and tenacity—whether you win or lose, it’s about being a good sport. It’s about improving yourself and improving with the team.” “It’s exciting that Pingry maintains its extraordinary academic standards while always seeking to improve in other areas, including arts and athletics,” adds Peter. Marsha and Peter understand that The Pingry Fund supports all aspects of the Pingry experience—which is why they have continued to support the annual fund at a leadership level, and why Peter has volunteered in the past to educate parents on how The Pingry Fund sustains the School’s growth year after year.

Woody Weldon ’91 Makes a Planned Gift, for Future Generations Pingry Alumni Association President and Trustee Woody Weldon ’91, P ’23 is one of many Weldons to attend Pingry— beginning with his two great-uncles William and Robert and his grandfather Norbert A. Weldon ’35, P ’67, ’72, GP ’91, ’09, ’11, GGP ’23. Woody and his wife Mary are the parents of a current Pingry student, Thomas Weldon ’23, giving the family nearly 100 years at Pingry. It comes as no surprise that a family so involved in Pingry life has elected to make a planned gift to the School. “Pingry has given so much to my family and me that it only feels right to give back to the School,” Woody says. “Considering that multiple generations of Weldons have benefited from incredible teachers and coaches, and fantastic college preparation in general, it is time for us to help make sure that future generations of Pingry families have an equally positive—if not better—experience.” Pingry Planning Ad 06 19 17.pdf

6/19/17

The Weldons’ planned gift comes in the form of a Deferred Charitable Gift Annuity, or DCGA. A DCGA allows a donor to make a gift to a charitable institution, such as The Pingry School, in exchange for a lifetime annuity from that institution that is deferred until later in life. The rate depends on a number of factors, with the charitable institution receiving the remainder of the gift after maturity. In fact, the longer the gift is deferred, the greater the benefit for both the donor and the School. “What appealed to us about the DCGA is that our promise was immediately fulfilled,” Woody explains. “It benefits the School, but also generates some investment income for us later in life. And, hopefully, when the first bit of income is paid by the DCGA, we will be in a position to donate that future income back to Pingry.”

5:47 PM

It’s never

too early

to plan for

your future

Pingry Alumni Association President and Trustee Woody Weldon ’91, P ’23.

To learn more about making a Deferred Charitable Gift Annuity, please contact Judy Brown in the Office of Institutional Advancement at jbrown@pingry.org or 908-647-5555, ext. 1288.

Make a planned gift by including Pingry in your will or retirement plans today, and join the ranks of Pingry alumni and community members who are taking care of the School through their estate plans. Both of these options have no upfront cost to you, and will benefit future generations of Pingry students. If you have included Pingry in your estate plans, have any questions about these types of gifts, or want to learn more about other options, please reach out to: Judy Brown Associate Director of Donor Relations and Stewardship (908) 647-5555 ext. 1288 jbrown@pingry.org pingry.org/plannedgiving

SUMMER 2017

Graduation for the Class of 2017!

The 156th Commencement Exercises took place on June 11, with Pingry trustees, faculty, and the graduatesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; families gathering to celebrate.

THE PINGRY REVIEW

Commencement 2017 [ 1 ] David Metzger ’17. [ 2 ] Neel Sambamurthy ’17 and Nisha Sambamurthy. [ 3 ] Kayla Thau ’17. [ 4 ] Katharine Matthias ’17 and Connor Beard ’17. [ 5 ] Obi Ikoro ’17 and Owen Gaynor ’17 leading the graduates through the faculty receiving line.

SUMMER 2017

The Cyril and Beatrice Baldwin Pingry Family Citizen of the Year Award After 29 years of service, retiring Drama Department Chair Al Romano received The Cyril and Beatrice Baldwin Pingry Family Citizen of the Year Award, presented to members of the Pingry family who, in rendering meritorious service to the community, have demonstrated those qualities of responsible citizenship that Pingry aspires to instill in all of those associated with the School. “We honor an individual whose program, only a year after arriving at Pingry, was referred to by thenHeadmaster John Hanly as ‘a jewel in Pingry’s crown,’” said Board of Trustees Chair Jeffrey N. Edwards ’78, P ’12, ’14, ’18.

Retiring Drama Department Chair Al Romano and Board of Trustees Chair Jeffrey N. Edwards ’78, P ’12, ’14, ’18.

Mr. Romano began his Pingry career in 1988 when Mr. Hanly, who met him while working at Trinity School in Manhattan, tasked him with developing Pingry’s drama program. Since Mr. Romano’s arrival, Pingry’s drama department went from one faculty member to four, and from having no official program and sporadic productions to offering drama in the Lower School, three Middle School courses, and five Upper School courses, with DramaFest as an extracurricular drama offering and a yearly schedule of staged productions across all three divisions. The Fall Play, Winter Musical, Middle School Musical, and Senior Play are frequently performed for sold-out audiences.

“Al is known for teaching his students how to listen, work with others, and read people,” Mr. Edwards said. “His students have often been surprised at the creative outlet they find through their drama classes, and they jump at the chance to be in the room with Al’s energy and enthusiasm for the theater…Al’s creative vision for students at Pingry has taught hundreds of Pingry students the value of thinking outside the box and on their feet, how to take direction, how to give direction, and, most of all, to have a sense of humor.” Mr. Romano has also increased the visibility of the arts at Pingry by collaborating with other department chairs, speaking at Admission events, and presenting to the Pingry Alumni Association board. Pingry is proud to recognize Mr. Romano’s dramatic influence on Pingry over the past three decades.

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Magistri Laudandi Award and The Class of 1902 Emblem Award

Will DiGrande ’17—Magistri Laudandi Award, for being the student who champions the greater good and cares the most about helping all succeed.

Zach Keller ’17—The Class of 1902 Emblem Award, for showing the greatest amount of school spirit.

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“It’s a staple of graduation speeches for me to say, ‘I’m sure you will all go on to do great things.’ Instead, I’ll say, ‘I hope you will all try to do great things’…All doing is trying, and all trying is doing…As rising adults, I hope you’ll all try and take risks to find what you believe is greatness.”

Valedictorian Ellen Li ’17

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Commencement 2017 [ 6 ] 13-Year Club (also known as Lifers, they attended Pingry since Kindergarten): Front row: Oliver Martin ’17, Ben Zhou ’17, Chris Varvaro ’17, Greg Naratil ’17, Jessie McLaughlin ’17, Julia Robinson ’17, Julia Dannenbaum ’17, and Kayla Thau ’17. Back row: Edward Johnson ’17, James Topor ’17, Spencer Spellman ’17, Johnny Graves ’17, Gabe Gever ’17, Josh Baum ’17, Matt San Miguel ’17, Anish Seth ’17, and Zach Keller ’17. Not pictured: Kartikeya Sharma ’17 and Caroline Stillitano ’17. [ 7 ] Allyson Bisgay ’17 and Sophie Morris ’17. [ 8 ] Caroline Stillitano ’17 and Sydney Woode ’17.

SUMMER 2017

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“We sit on the precipice of great change. Soon, we will be attending new schools, living in new cities, and meeting new people. We will enter a world filled with new challenges, opportunities, and responsibilities. Let’s not forget that some things should remain the same. Let’s maintain the friendships that we formed here. Let’s honor our teachers, families, and the traditions of our School by continuing to live by the principles of the Honor Code that have guided us this far. And let’s cherish the bond that unites us.”

Student Body President Zach Keller ’17

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Legacy Families

Legacy Families (members of the Class of 2017 with family members who also graduated from Pingry): Coby Weiss ’17, Dr. Richard C. Weiss ’55, GP ’17, ’18, ’21, Brett Zanelli ’17, Bart Zanelli, Jr. ’80, P ’14, ’16, ’17, ’20, William Graff ’17, Martha (Ryan) Graff ’84, P ’15, ’17, ’20, Caroline Stillitano ’17, Charlie Stillitano, Jr. ’77, P ’17, Henry Biedron ’17, and Mark Biedron ’70, P ’15, ’17.

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“I wanted to use the cliché, “Go into the world with the knowledge high school gave you,” but then I thought, we just have to look within our own class for inspiration…So, as we go our separate ways, let’s take the best of high school and make it even better in college. Do what you love, run with it, and never stop improving, just as Pingry taught you.”

Class President Will DiGrande ’17

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Commencement 2017 [ 9 ] Nell Beatty ’17, Julia Dannenbaum ’17, and Rose Beatty ’17. [ 10 ] Jake Mayer ’17 and Sam Scherl ’17. [ 11 ] Kartikeya Sharma ’17, Emily Tung ’17, Shannon Kirdzik ’17, Ben Zhou ’17, Lauryn Rodney ’17, and Ellen Li ’17. [ 12 ] Taylor Dupree ’17 and Kai Holston ’17. [ 13 ] Chris Lachenauer ’17, Matt Ludwig ’17, William Long ’17, Lloyd-James Davidson ’17, Johnny Graves ’17, and Peter Gilbert ’17.

SUMMER 2017

Commencement 2017 [ 14 ] Kiara Smith ’17 and Jeff Zucker ’17 with Dionne Smith,

Brittany Smith, Angela Smith, Annie Kelson Jackson GP ’17, Leon Smith P ’17, Kristine Smith P ’17, and Kiana Smith. [ 15 ] Julia Klyashtorny, Sarika Gupta P ’17, Rachna Garg, Akshina Gupta ’17, Archana Gupta, Samarth Gupta P ’17, Sandeep Gupta, and Eshan Gupta.

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Lilliana Pereira ’27 Receives Stifel Award additional surgery. After that surgery, she used a wheelchair and crutches, and, when it came time to climb the steps to Mrs. Finn’s music class, Lilliana jumped up each stair one-by-one with her good leg.

you want to be when you grow up?” and was delighted by all of the answers he heard. “You can be anything. Don’t let anything stand in your way. Just dream big, and work hard. You have your entire life to be a dreamer. Don’t be afraid of unknowns or challenges, and remember that anything is possible.” He then quoted Mr. Reeve: “So many dreams at first seem impossible. And then they seem improbable. And then when we summon the will, they soon become inevitable.”

“I congratulate her for her hard work and always bouncing back,” Mrs. Finn said. Indeed, through all of these experiences, her family and teachers say that Lilliana has participated enthusiastically in all activities and remained positive, happy, and social, never complaining about her condition.

To further inspire the young students in the audience, Mr. Stifel presented images of others who have persevered through a physical setback: former President Franklin Delano Roosevelt; Rhode Island Congressman James Langevin; Texas Governor Greg Abbott; Canadian politician Sam Sullivan; physicist Stephen Hawking; Victor Calise, Commissioner of the New York City Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities; and a paralyzed neuroresearcher rising from his wheelchair.

Sergio Pereira P ’27, second-grade teacher Sally Dugan P ’04, ’08, music teacher Patty Finn, Lilliana Pereira ’27, Jamie Pereira P ’27, and Henry G. Stifel III ’83.

“What happens when you stretch a rubber band?” Lower School music teacher Patty Finn asked the audience of Lower School students. “It bounces back. It’s an example of resilience.” Mrs. Finn was introducing second-grade student Lilliana Pereira on April 19 as the 2017 recipient of the Henry G. Stifel III Award, named for Mr. Stifel, who was paralyzed in an automobile accident during his junior year at Pingry. The School established the award in 1984 to “be awarded to the person who best exemplifies those characteristics exhibited by Henry G. Stifel III ’83 in the aftermath of his accident and spinal injury: courage, endurance, optimism, compassion, and spirit.” The first Lower School student to receive the award since 1996, Lilliana was born with Congenital Femoral Deficiency, a rare, non-hereditary defect that occurs in one out of 40,000 births. Characterized by a short femur (thigh bone—the longest and strongest bone in the body) and associated with hip and knee deformity, deficiency, or instability, it is treated at a specialized clinic in Florida. Lilliana already has an extensive surgical history, including her first hip surgery at age two, her first leg-lengthening surgery at age three, and an ankle correction at age six. In May 2016, she underwent her second leg-lengthening surgery; although the procedure was successful, Lilliana dislocated her hip, resulting in unexpected

Mr. Stifel, a Pingry lifer who works at Morgan Stanley and is Vice Chair of the Board of Directors of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, reflected on returning to the Short Hills Campus, recalling his time there before his accident. He asked the audience, “What do

Mr. Stifel concluded the moving assembly by praising Lilliana for not letting anything stand in her way, and dismissed his young audience with a heartfelt reminder to “dream big.”

Middle School Filmmakers Create Prize-Winning Comedy Young directors-in-the-making Jordan Miller ’23, Vared Shmuler ’23, Jenna Hauser ’23, and Meher Khan ’23 were selected as Grand Prize winners in the Montclair Film Festival’s 2017 Emerging Filmmaker Competition. Their 4-minute 40-second comedy How to Make a Film for Dummies was awarded first place in the Cinemaniacs category. “The film, which is really a film within a film, is about four kids who want to create a short film for the Montclair Film Festival. They strive to create segments of different genres, but can’t quite decide on one. So, in the end, they submit the ‘film within a film’ to the festival, about their entire submission process,” explains Vared, who did most of the filming. All four students acted in the film. Open to students in Grades 4 to 12 throughout New Jersey and the tri-state area, this year’s Emerging Filmmaker Competition received more than 90 film submissions in three different categories: Cinemaniacs (Grades 4 to 6), Storytellers (Grades 7 to 9), and Visionaries (Grades 10 to 12). Jordan, Vared, Jenna, and Meher’s film, like all winning submissions, was selected by a group of educators and industry professionals. Last year, Upper School students Adam Present ’17 and Matt San Miguel ’17 tied for the Grand Prize for their intentionally-ambiguous film Entropy in the Experimental category of Visionaries. SUMMER 2017

Winter in the North Woods: An Adirondacks Field Study

Credit: Rebecca Sullivan

Over Presidents’ Day weekend, nine adventurous Pingry students quite willingly left the New Jersey suburbs behind for the wilds of the Adirondacks, in northeastern New York State. Accompanied by four faculty members, their journey was part educational and part self-discovery, though the travelers will tell you the line between the two was almost always blurred. Their destination, in the High Peaks of the Adirondacks, just outside Lake Placid, was the North Country School (NCS), whose motto—“Where most classrooms end, ours begins”—perfectly captures the purpose of the group’s adventure. A progressive school for 52

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The group snowshoes to Loon Cabin, used by Camp Treetops in the summer.

Credit: Rebecca Sullivan

Convincing a group of middle and high school students to spend six days together in a century-old farmhouse on the shores of a lake so solidly frozen by single-digit winter temperatures you could drive a truck on it, where daily chores include feeding sheep, barn cleaning, cooking your own meals, and avoiding likely frostbite, is, it turns out, not as tough a sell as you might imagine.

Natalie Lifson ’17 and a resident of NCS’s campus barn becoming fast friends.

students in Grades 4 through 9, NCS emphasizes sustainable living, outdoor education, and practical experience. Pingry Upper School history teacher and Green Group and Outing Club co-leader Mr. John Crowley-Delman ’97 was the trip’s initial architect. (Previously, he had taken Pingry students on two separate trips to the area around NCS, but both were for camping purposes, less educationally structured, and, most importantly, not in the depths of winter.)

As a child, Mr. Crowley-Delman spent summers at Camp Treetops, NCS’s summertime identity, and served as its wilderness trip planner the last two summers. While he was growing up, Pingry and Camp Treetops represented the yin and yang of his education, he says, and he had long wanted to combine the deep intellectualism of Pingry with the hands-on experiences he had at the camp. An opportunity presented itself when he learned of NCS’s recent purchase of a property across the lake from its main campus. He suggested to administrators a pilot program, of sorts—let Pingry students stay in the home on the property for a few days, and learn, first-hand, from the farmers and sustainability experts at the school, not to mention their more rugged counterparts at NCS (the school annually enrolls about 90 students). Far from tourist travel, this trip—like others Pingry’s Global Programs has offered

in the last few years—was conceived as a deeply experiential, multidisciplinary, student-driven, place-based educational opportunity. The group’s mission over the course of its six-day stay was to answer the following “essential question”: How does a community live sustainably in the heart of the largest state park in the United States—bigger than Yellowstone, Everglades, Glacier, and Grand Canyon National Parks combined? The reality of the directive was made evident the first day: when the students’ van was trapped by a winter storm just 200 yards from their house, they had to trudge the remaining distance, gear on their backs. The following day, one of the girls on the trip befriended a piglet in the school’s barn, only to dine on sausage later that night. These are just the sorts of “processing experiences” the trip leaders were targeting. “The trip was about drawing critically from multiple disciplines to answer the essential question,” explains Pingry environmental arts teacher and one of the trip’s leaders, Ms. Rebecca Sullivan, who, with Mr. Crowley-Delman, is the Green Group and Outing Club co-leader. “Whereas your classic field trip would be a tour of a museum, here, we really thought carefully about the experience in advance to come up with an interesting problem that the students had to make sense of. And throughout the course of our stay, they studied it through the lenses of environmental science, history, art, outdoor education, forestry, and sustainability.” (Director of Global Education and environmental science teacher Mr. Jeff Jewett and environmental history teacher Dr. Megan Jones rounded out the four faculty members on the trip.)

the course of the next six days, Mr. Jewett and NCS’s sustainability expert explained the environmental aspects of the campus, showing students the school’s giant composter. Dr. Jones gave a lesson on the history of Adirondack Park and its formation as a mixture of private and public land. A farm-to-table educator taught the students how to prepare rosemary flatbread using only local ingredients; they prepared nearly all meals, largely locallysourced, themselves. Ms. Sullivan taught a photography unit, asking students to capture the details of their surroundings, understanding that photography, as an art form, arose in tandem with the movements of preservation and land consciousness. By the end of their stay, the students’ once-foreign barn chores became a natural, daily routine. “I found I was more capable of handling physical tasks than I thought,” reflects Melissa Tungare ’18. “Doing hands-on work always seemed out of my reach somehow—I had always been interested in it, but thought I wasn’t capable of it. But the hikes and barn work, especially in the morning, showed me that I could go outside and get my hands dirty, and it was really rewarding. My biggest take-away from the trip was pretty similar: I had always felt like I couldn’t do much to help with environmental and sustainability issues, but now I see ways I can take action and make a difference.” Two days of the trip were set aside as “challenge by choice” days, in which students could determine their own adventure, whether it veered to the intellectual (a visit to a local creamery to see how cheese is made and

distributed), or the more physical (learning from a professional forester the ins and outs of managing a sugar bush farm, where they helped to tap maple trees and, by chance, witnessed the first sap run of the season). On the final evening, a farmer’s banquet was held as a way to thank the NCS faculty for their hospitality and teaching. Students helped to prepare the meal, making mozzarella from the milk they had purchased at the creamery earlier in the day, a perfect topping for their homemade pizzas. After dinner, an exhibition of the students’ photos prompted a culminating reflection on the “essential question” they had been tasked with answering. Gathering at the end of each day in the farmhouse for dinner, journaling, and discussion, students had much to reflect upon. Mr. Crowley-Delman likened the experience to a one-room schoolhouse. With a wide range of grades on the trip—one senior all the way down to four eighth-grade students—moments of tension could easily have arisen. But they didn’t. In the shared experience, unity—and unity in self-discovery— emerged. Chris Ticas ’21, who was introduced to hiking and the concept of self-sustainability for the first time on the trip, was moved by what he experienced. “I learned a lot about what it means to be a self-dependent community,” he comments. “When we came back from barn chores, it felt rewarding to know that we were responsible for taking care of the animals. Overall, the trip was really a life-changing opportunity.”

Credit: Jeff Jewett

On day one, in two feet of fresh snow, the group snowshoed over a mile-anda-half to the top of nearby Trouble Mountain, a bonding experience if there ever was one (“Shared pain unites people, and this was a perfect example,” says Chris Ticas ’21). They shadowed the NCS students during twice-a-day barn chores, feeding the sheep, horses, and pigs. Over Chris Ticas ’21 drilling the first taphole of the 2017 maple syrup season, while an NCS faculty member and Adelaide Lance ’21 offer encouragement.

SUMMER 2017

Credit: Rebecca Sullivan

City of Rock: A Backpacking Adventure in Utah’s Bears Ears National Monument

Little did they know that, in one of President Obama’s final acts in office, the area would soon be included in a newly designated 1.35-million-acre Bears Ears National Monument. “American Indian tribes, environmentalists, and the outdoor industry rejoiced at Obama’s decision,” Mr. Horesta explains. “Utah’s governor, both of its senators, and most of its representatives in the House, however, vowed to fight it.” So, when Mr. Crowley-Delman, Mr. Horesta, and visual arts teacher Rebecca Sullivan returned a few months later 54

THE PINGRY REVIEW

The group in Bears Ears National Monument. Credit: John Crowley-Delman ’97

Upper School history teachers John Crowley-Delman ’97 and Matt Horesta headed West last December. Their mission? To scout Cedar Mesa, a majestic plateau in southeastern Utah. They had already determined that the land of red rock formations, juniper forests, and early ancestral cliff dwellings would be an ideal site for a Global Programs backpacking adventure over Spring Break, fewer than three months away. Now, they just had to determine the best possible route.

Relaxing in an outdoor classroom.

with a group of Upper School students, they found themselves smack in the middle of a much larger debate about land use in the West, compelled to grapple with the following “essential” question: Should Bears Ears National Monument designation be rescinded? It was—and remains—a fraught question, and one that, from March 11-20, eight Pingry students were asked to consider, from numerous angles, over the course of their 10-day trip, six days of which were spent backpacking over 40 miles across the rugged terrain. (A pair of towering buttes, Bears Ears

are just one feature in the eponymous national monument in Utah.) “What was so exciting for us was that, after that national monument designation, the ‘essential question’ became so immediate and so critical,” Mr. CrowleyDelman says. Examining the question across multiple disciplines—human history, environmental history, art history, and contemporary, regional politics— was a natural approach to sorting out an answer. On the second day in the monument, for example, students rotated among three different archaeological sites, immersing themselves in place-based learning: At Perfect Kiva (kiva is a circular prayer space dug into the ground), Mr. Horesta discussed ancestral Puebloan culture; at Jailhouse Ruin, Ms. Sullivan engaged the students in a photography lesson; and, at another nearby site, featuring 1,000-yearold ancestral Puebloan pictographs (cave drawings), Mr. Crowley-Delman tested their observation skills.

Another day, the group assembled on a rock overlooking a canyon, asked to envision a number of different land use scenarios. What would the landscape look like with more tourists visiting, paved roads, and designated campsites? Should its artifacts—cave buildings, pictographs, and petroglyphs (rock carvings)—be preserved in a museum or left in their natural surroundings? How would the area—its people and culture —be affected by mining roads crisscrossing its contours, or if swaths of acreage were dammed and flooded? From this activity, intense discussion, drawings, and watercolor paintings emerged.

Make no mistake, students were pushed to challenge themselves physically as much as they were academically. Considered the most remote area in the Lower 48, Bears Ears requires its visitors to expend great effort simply to arrive at a designated trailhead. The group flew to Salt Lake City and drove 3.5 hours to a campground in Goblin Valley State Park. The next morning, after lessons in tent set-up and campsite “kitchen” safety, they continued another 2.5

Credit: Rebecca Sullivan

“Being able to look at our essential question holistically was really cool,” says Josie Cummings ’18. “We almost went through a reverse learning process. We were challenged to question what we thought and to look at things from all angles—not just a single perspective—to try to understand. And from there, we could make our own decision.”

hours to Bullet Canyon, where they began their trek into the national monument. On average, they covered five to six miles a day, carrying all their gear, food, and garbage (they followed a strict “leave no trace” policy). At night, they camped under ancestral Puebloan cliff ruins dating from the 1300s. On day four—a “challenge day”—they hiked down Grand Gulch to Step Canyon, about 15 miles round-trip. They also learned a few incidentals—how to read maps, use a compass, apply wilderness first aid basics, cook coconut curry and macaroni and cheese using little more than a canister stove on a desert floor, and, of course, howl at the moon.

Pitching tents.

When the students returned to Salt Lake City the night before their flight to New Jersey, their accommodations were, relatively speaking, less primitive: a 19th-century farmhouse, now nestled in a densely inhabited neighborhood of the city. Led by chef Brandon Lane ’19, half the students made dinner for the entire group, without adult help (kale salad with red bell pepper, cucumber, and butter lettuce; chicken with garlic and lemon; and rice pilaf, according to the chef). The other half researched the various designations for federally protected land, to learn about alternatives to monument designation. Before journeying to the airport the following morning, they held a final debrief on the essential question they had so thoughtfully considered—indeed, experienced—during their 10-day backpacking adventure: Should Bears Ears National Monument designation be rescinded?

Credit: John Crowley-Delman ’97

“I’m not sure if any minds were changed over the course of that final debate,” Mr. Crowley-Delman says. “But everyone had to admit that it was a much more complex issue than we thought heading into the trip.” Upper School history teacher Matt Horesta giving a history lesson.

SUMMER 2017

Annual Research Exhibit Offers Array of Scientific Possibilities “Innovation, Advancement, Excellence…Join us in our quest to extend the limits of knowledge...” the entrance banner read. Pingry’s fifth annual Research Exhibit, held in April on the Basking Ridge Campus, once again demonstrated the extent to which students immerse themselves in the process of science. Hallways, classrooms, and labs were filled with students discussing the results of their hands-on research. Their projects and depth of knowledge amazed and impressed faculty, staff, alumni, parents, and classmates. The broad range of topics included the efficacy of tutoring; sleep deprivation; the early onset of Parkinson’s Disease; mind wandering; animal-assisted therapy; the effects of caffeine; climate change; and the genetic diversity of pine snakes.

Project 80 offering hands-on activities, such as extracting DNA from strawberries. Guests used a mortar and pestle to mash the strawberries, poured the resulting liquid into a cup, and added rubbing alcohol, which helps to isolate the genetic material from broken-down cells. What’s dripping from the wooden sticks? Strawberry DNA!

The S.M.A.R.T. Team presenting the structures of two proteins that play a critical role in repairing DNA. Mutations in these proteins have been linked to the development of breast cancer.

To represent Journal Club, the walls of the Upper School Faculty Lounge were covered with scientific articles that have been or will be presented at the club’s weekly meetings. Guests learned how students prepare to give a presentation that often attracts an audience of 60 (sometimes more than 80) peers, faculty/staff, and parents.

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The Robotics team demonstrating its student-built robots from the past several years.

In the AstroPingry room, guests could experience virtual reality, learn about a large Skywatcher Dobsonian telescope, watch a 3D printer in action, and see how students engineered a 3D printed Dobsonian telescope. Pictured are examples of astrophotography, a discipline that has become a Pingry club that welcomes Middle and Upper School students.

The Anatomy Club’s dissection room welcomed visitors with opportunities to explore the insides of a frog, pregnant rat, fetal pig, pregnant shark, and sheep brain.

Keynote Speeches

Pingry Research AP Biology Master Projects Students complete research projects from the initial idea to the presentation of a poster Anatomy Club Opportunities for dissection are inspired by research indicating that hands-on learning aids the understanding of anatomy. This club is separate from the biology and anatomy courses that include dissections. AstroPingry Combining numerous disciplines, including science, history, technology, and the arts, students explore astrophotography in addition to traditional astronomy

Katharine Matthias ’17 spoke about the development of an iRT project—in her case, a quest to understand hearing loss in humans by conducting research on zebrafish. It all began with her love of scuba diving, which prompted “why” questions as she viewed the world in a new way from beneath the ocean, which led to courses about fish and fish anatomy, which led to an analysis of the zebrafish’s sensory systems. She learned that sensory hair cells in the zebrafish’s lateral line (along the outside of the fish)—cells that are functionally analogous to hearing in humans—regenerate, while similar hair cells in humans don’t regenerate, leading to hearing loss. How? Detailing the complex process by which these cells regenerate in zebrafish, she explained that, in humans, a signaling pathway related to hearing becomes inhibited, preventing sensory cell regeneration and causing the hearing loss. She concluded by telling the audience why she believes that students should become involved in science at Pingry: “It’s a great way to pursue your interests and research them. Science is about curiosity—asking questions, looking deeper, and exploring new worlds.”

Computer Science Projects cover a range of topics, including programming languages, artificial intelligence, web development, data analysis, and game design iRT (Independent Research Team) Individual teams conduct novel research— often working in conjunction with universities and research institutions—with older students mentoring younger students Journal Club Every Thursday at 7:30 a.m., students present and discuss research published in scientific journals Mechanisms of Cancer This biology class uses the disease of cancer as a context in which to explain molecular biology Middle School Science Olympiad Team This Middle School club meets—and competes —regularly to tackle questions of biology, chemistry, physics, earth science, technology, and engineering The Pingry Community Research (PCR) Journal An annual publication highlighting students’ scientific research; students are responsible for all aspects of the editorial and design process. Project 80 A student organization whose mission is “to make science accessible to everyone” by researching misconceptions, controversies, and interesting news, and then disseminating engaging multimedia presentations on this research

Dr. Amanda King ’07, who is enrolled in the M.D.-Ph.D. Program at Yale School of Medicine (she has completed the Ph.D. portion), addressed the topic of “finding success in failure.” In her view, formed by a number of failures in her educational career (such as failing a chemistry test or failing epidemiology), “‘fail’ is not a dirty, four-letter word.” Instead, people should expect to fail—it creates opportunities, accentuates success, and informs decisions. Dr. King explained that her main foray into science was triggered by tragedy and what she perceived to be a medical failure: When she was 10 years old, Dr. King was babysitting a four-year-old girl, Jacquie, who was diagnosed with a brain tumor (DIPG—Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma). At the time, Dr. King didn’t understand why the doctors couldn’t “fix” Jacquie, and she still considers it a failure. “Failure informs decisions,” she said, in this case, her decision to attend medical school. “Don’t let it decide your actions for you.”

Research Class Students learn molecular biology techniques while completing a year-long project and gaining experience with reading and evaluating scientific literature Robotics Team Students use mechanical, electrical, and programming skills to design and build a robot and compete against other regional teams S.M.A.R.T. Team (Students Modeling a Research Topic) Students design and construct a physical model of a protein that is being investigated in a researcher’s laboratory. The team presents their project each year at a national scientific conference. SUMMER 2017

“You Can’t Simply Restrict Access”

Carver Lecture Delves into Children’s Healthy Use of Technology As a mother of three and a board-certified adult and pediatric psychiatrist, Dr. Jodi Gold has noticed the ubiquitous and ever-increasing presence of technology— and the concern it can cause parents. Recognizing that technology is utilized differently by various age groups, and that techniques for “raising” elementaryand middle school-age children online are different than the techniques required for high school-age children, she spoke to parents on both campuses for this year’s Gilbert H. Carver ’79 Memorial Lecture. Author of Screen-Smart Parenting, Dr. Gold wanted to give parents the tools to help their children cultivate an online presence that reflects the person whom parents are raising their children to become. “You can’t simply restrict access to technology anymore,” she said, “and spying on your child gives them the wrong message—that you don’t trust them, even before they have done anything wrong.” The first part of Dr. Gold’s approach was to help parents discover their “Family Style,” using the classic quadrant model of Authoritarian, Authoritative, Permissive, and Laissez-Faire. She urged the audience to become Authoritative parents, which she described as, “Understanding the needs of your children while having consistent rules and values about technology use.” Dr. Gold introduced parents to the “digital landscape,” describing her generation of parents as “the last generation to raise our children online, who have not ourselves been raised online.” She cautioned parents against fear or reluctance to adopt digital language and culture simply because it is unfamiliar. “I like reading a physical, paper book and playing Scrabble with the little wooden tiles,” Dr. Gold admitted, “while my daughter switches between her book and Kindle and plays Words with Friends on a tablet. There’s really nothing wrong with that— it’s just different.” Understanding children’s place in the digital landscape means understanding social media, Dr. Gold says. For Lower School parents, Dr. Gold explained that social media can include YouTube, certain 58

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Calvin Carver, Sr. P ’77, ’79, GP ’09, ’11, ’14, ’14, Dr. Jodi Gold, Anne DeLaney ’79, P ’09, ’11, ’14, ’14, and Calvin “Chip” Carver, Jr. ’77, P ’09, ’11, ’14, ’14.

games, and other apps that may not seem to be social at first blush. For the Basking Ridge attendees, Dr. Gold explained the ins and outs of Instagram and Snapchat, which make up the bulk of a teenager’s social media use. She also explained how social media can enrich a child’s friendships and how technology can offer new avenues for play and even contribute to positive identity development—if children are mentored to avoid the dangers of cyberbullying, cyberexclusion, and technology overdependence. To this end, Dr. Gold offered a plan: taking a developmental approach, parents can open a dialogue with their children about being kind online, developing resilience when things go wrong online, and talking about friendship, technology, and sexuality, and how technology can color how we view our relationships in the real world. The Gilbert Harry Carver ’79 Memorial Fund was established in memory of Gilbert Carver ’79 by his father Calvin and stepmother June Carver, his sister Marcey Carver, his brother Chip Carver, Jr. ’77, and Chip’s wife Anne DeLaney ’79. This fund supports open dialogue on self-esteem and acceptance and, thanks to its supporters, will continue in perpetuity.

Dr. Jodi Gold’s Recommendations For those with younger children: Become part of their technology use because they are ready to internalize rules and will be more open about sharing what they discover online. For those with older children: Monitor the use of technology without spying or restricting access, share passwords, and intervene only if you notice signs and symptoms that would be cause for concern. For everyone: Institute technology rules that apply to the whole family, such as… • removing phones, televisions, and other devices from the bedroom. • removing background television when interacting with family members. Be role models. Engage in conversations with children in the interest of seeking understanding and mutual trust.

Lunar New Year Celebrations with Pingry’s Sister School On January 29, the day after the Lunar New Year, 10 juniors from Pingry’s sister school in China, Quzhou No. 2 High School, arrived on the Basking Ridge Campus, filled with anticipation for their two-week visit and an introduction to life in an American school. This was the fifth year that Pingry welcomed students and teachers from its sister school, which was on break in observance of their national holiday. Accompanied by a chaperone from their school, the students were hosted by the families of 12 Pingry students, and Chinese teacher Yi Hao P ’11, ’13 maximized the group’s experience with a packed itinerary. In addition to attending a variety of Upper School classes, ranging from public speaking to art history, and socializing with their Pingry peers, the Chinese students were busy with many other activities. Highlights included visiting the Lower School and participating in a special project with Kindergarten students (watercolor paintings to celebrate the year of the rooster); watching and participating in sports activities around campus, including the PSPA’s Wrestling Party/ Senior Night; a dragon parade alongside Pingry students; a Lunar New Year

Celebration Feast that included homecooked delicacies prepared by 20 Chinese families at Pingry; and a choral and dance performance by the visiting students, who sang “Blue and White Porcelain” by Taiwanese “Mandopop” (Mandarin popular music) artist Jay Chou. Ms. Hao is grateful to all the Pingry families who hosted, as well as the faculty who welcomed the students into their classrooms, saying, “Our visitors were able to experience American life in a personal and meaningful way. They

Quzhou and Pingry students participated in a dragon parade, joined by Spanish teacher Vic Nazario P ’90, ’94 and Chinese teachers Lily Wang and Yi Hao P ’11, ’13.

were amazed by the freedom Pingry students have, both in terms of the structure of their school day and their academic pursuits. They loved getting to know the school, the faculty, and their Pingry peers. They were even hoping the snowstorm, which hit the day before their departure, might have prevented them from leaving!”

Phoebe Zheng Reflects on Her Pingry Visit When I was hugging my Pingry host mom goodbye, I wanted to cry, but I tried hard to hold my tears back. Now, my tears are flowing uncontrollably. I’ll always treasure these unforgettable days with Megan [Pan ’18]’s family and the caring they gave me, and take that with me when I step onto another unfamiliar land. Their care will always give me strength and make me believe that there is love, without the boundaries of time and space, between our hearts. The time we spent at Pingry, whether in the school building or in the daily life of the students, was like in the American films, only better, completely exceeding my expectations. Teachers enjoyed their students and were good at encouraging them. The students were warm and funny, relaxed in front

of their teachers, but not lacking in respect. In the classroom, they were comfortable expressing themselves. We received a lot of attention at Pingry. In both the Middle and Upper Schools, teachers went out of their way to let us participate in class or mingle with the students. That acceptance made us feel welcome. The most interesting part was that, after we finished our Lunar New Year performance, many students gave a “thumbs up” and said “good job”! The positive feeling, even as I recall it now, made me smile. Ms. Hao and Mr. Jewett, as well as many other teachers, made every effort to help us fill each minute of our stay with fascinating experiences, and gave us as much exposure to life at Pingry as possible. At Pingry, we felt as if we really lived in the United States,

Phoebe Zheng, far left, with her classmates and teacher.

and we felt almost the same warmth as in our own school. No matter what I face in the future, I will always be grateful for this journey. It gave me the courage to face the unknown, knowledge about an unfamiliar part of the world, a chance to see the other side of the Pacific, and a heart filled with love. Thanks to Yi Hao P ’11, ’13 for translating Phoebe’s reflection, written in Chinese during her flight home.

SUMMER 2017

Introducing Middle School Students to Art’s Endless Possibilities

“To be a working artist, you have to be able to walk into a space, look at something blank, come up with tons of ideas, and know how to manifest that into a visual language,” says Middle School visual arts teacher Jane Kunzman. 60

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Though Pingry’s students are not yet “working” artists, they are consistently asked to come up with ideas—specifically, ideas that are personal to them. As a holistic arts educator, Mrs. Kunzman sees art as a vehicle for teaching children how to communicate about what and who matters to them at this point in their lives. “We’re not just decorating walls. It’s a question of ‘What do we care about?’ Every project has that element of ‘this is who I am.’” With a background in graphic design prior to her teaching career, as an exhibiting artist herself, and as former

Chair of the Visual Arts Department at Gill St. Bernard’s School, Mrs. Kunzman is well aware of the varying circumstances that can generate ideas… hence, all of her students are required to complete a journal. “Artists need to have ideas spilling out of their heads, so it’s important to create a ‘habit of mind’ at the brainstorming stage. In this journal project, students learn how to document their ideas and keep that ‘brainstorming window’ open. They should be able to look at a blank document and not freeze,” she explains.

Beginning on the first day of class, Mrs. Kunzman wants her students to enjoy working in an art studio. Creativity, experimentation, and discovery are emphasized over final products, using skills such as printmaking, papermaking, working with clay, drawing with charcoal, using oil pastels, drawing from observation, watercolor painting, color theory, and illustrating with India ink. She loves to make things, “especially things that look playful,” and wants students to experience that same joy of using wit in their work. So, it comes as no surprise when Mrs. Kunzman relates that one of the most gratifying moments is when a student tells her, “This is the best thing I’ve ever made” or “I had no idea I could do this.” Along the same lines, one of Mrs. Kunzman’s challenges is how to work with Middle School students who “might have decided what they think they’re not good at and don’t have the courage to consider getting better. It’s way too soon to decide, ‘I’m not an artist.’” And that’s one of the primary reasons for her journal project—to show art’s endless possibilities.

Praising Pingry’s Team When she was considering the transition from chairing an arts department to focusing on teaching, Mrs. Kunzman was attracted by the prospect of being part of Pingry’s visual arts “team” and by the leadership she perceived in Visual Arts Department Chair Miles Boyd. “I thought I could grow as a team member, and I was dead right. He creates a shared vision among the teachers that is deeply committed to empowering students through the process of making things. I’m super proud that I’m part of the team.” Two other challenges stem from the Middle and Upper School schedules and curricula. While Grades K-5 receive year-long art instruction, Middle School art classes, which are electives in Grade 8, are one trimester. And in the Upper School, a one-year arts requirement can be fulfilled by visual arts, drama, or music. The keys to making a lasting impact on students, then, are to expand

on the theories from the Lower School curriculum and to make art memorable. “I work hard to make sure that the experience is pleasurable, positive, and playful,” she says. “For some students, hands-on creativity in class is what they most enjoy. For others, the [Hostetter Arts Center] gallery is the highlight— meeting professional artists and seeing the materials that artists work with. They remember what happens in the gallery, the gem of our arts program.” The gallery also provides an outlet for teachable moments, including the life lesson that Mrs. Kunzman most seeks to impart: “how to show respect for different people’s ideas. We talk about making the art room a ‘safe space.’ In the gallery, students know how to talk about what they see, demonstrating what they learn in class about respect.” A parent herself, of four children, Mrs. Kunzman thrives on shaping young minds, which is reflected in her motivation for teaching: “Seeing the world through children’s eyes is just wonderful. There is no other experience that compares to working with children.”

Jane Kunzman’s Tips for Pursuing Art after Middle School

• • • •

Keep materials (including magic markers, watercolors, colored pencils, water-soluble crayons, and construction paper) readily accessible at home. Be willing to look at a blank piece of paper…and know that you are capable of drawing something on it. Visit community art centers, such as the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey. They often have classes, exhibits, and/or summer camps. Go look at art, whether in a museum, a gallery, or your neighbor’s living room. Art is everywhere. As a few of Mrs. Kunzman’s students said in class one day: “Keep an open mind; remember that somebody made the artwork and cares about it; discover the story behind the art; and look at art from multiple points of view.”

SUMMER 2017

Unsung Heroes: The Devotion of Pingry’s Assistant Coaches They are models of a country day school philosophy, in which faculty members, fully integrating themselves into the fabric of a school, also serve as coaches. Indeed, assistant coaches inspire students inside the classroom and out. But unlike head coaches, they often work outside of the limelight, devoting long hours after the school day has ended to helping studentathletes achieve their goals. Here, we introduce you to three of Pingry’s fine assistant coaches, placing them, very purposefully, in the spotlight.

Davidson Barr, Upper School geometry and economics Assistant Coach, Boys’ and Girls’ Varsity Fencing Teams, since 2012 A mathematics and economics major at Northwestern University, Mr. Barr played on the school’s competitive club team. He served as president and captain of Northwestern’s fencing club, and, in 2009, his senior year, led its épée squad to a Collegiate Club National Championship.

Julie Coxe, Upper School algebra, geometry, trigonometry Assistant Coach, Boys’ and Girls’ Varsity Ski Teams, since 2013 Ms. Coxe arrived at Pingry four years ago, having received two master’s degrees, the first in Mathematical Physics from Massey University in Auckland, New Zealand, and the second in Teaching from the University of Delaware. As an undergraduate at James Madison University, she majored in math. Her prior skiing experience? None.

Graham Touhey, chemistry Assistant Coach, Boys’ Varsity Basketball Team, since 2013 In 2013, Mr. Touhey was fresh out of Lehigh University, with a degree in Chemistry, when he arrived at Pingry. For two years prior, he served as assistant coach of his high school’s successful basketball team in Easton, Pennsylvania (he was All-Area First Team his senior year). The experience was a turning point for him—he says that 62

THE PINGRY REVIEW

the potential to continue coaching was a big factor in his decision to pursue teaching.

Julie Coxe, Davidson Barr, and Graham Touhey in the Miller A. Bugliari ’52 Athletics Center.

Do you see your roles as teacher and coach complementary? If so, how?

contact, since the Head Coach [Christine Larsen] lives near Mountain Creek [Ski Resort]. But the rapport that I develop with the kids on the mountain I definitely bring back to Pingry, and into the classroom.

Mr. Barr: Fencing is really a problemsolving game, developing skills to find out where you can take ground on your opponent. As a geometry teacher, this is the same set of skills that I’m trying to communicate to my students—finding your way to a solution. So, fencing aligns well with my teaching. When you’re out there on the strip, you have to figure out your opponent and problem-solve; that’s the only way to make it through a match. In a geometry class, we might practice problem-solving differently, but it’s still the same skillset. Ms. Coxe: For me, coaching and teaching are distinct roles. When I started at Pingry, [then-Director of Athletics] Gerry Vanasse asked for a volunteer to serve as assistant coach of the ski team. I said, “why not?” Much of what I do as an assistant ski coach is administrative and organizational—are the kids on the bus in time? Are they spending time in the weight room? I’m the on-site Pingry

Mr. Touhey: Coaching only enhances my teaching experience and my interactions with students. It’s great to see the players I coach in the classroom, and I think it’s great for them to see me teaching, too. It’s not all about basketball. Even the kids I don’t necessarily coach call me “coach.” “But I’m not your coach,” I tell them. And they respond, “But you coach me in science.” These kids see me on the court and know me as a coach as well as a teacher, and I think that helps them to relate to me. Both the coaching and teaching platforms help me to read and understand kids better.

How does the role of assistant coach compare to that of head coach? Ms. Coxe: Because the head coach lives near the mountain and I’m the

on-campus point of contact, I do many of the things that a head coach would usually do—organize buses and departure/arrival times with the Athletics Office and Mountain Creek; make sure captains are doing their jobs; communicate with parents; organize the end-ofseason banquet; disseminate the scores, rosters, and any end-of-season honors to those at Pingry who need them; and attend admission events and reach out to prospective families via email. Mr. Barr: My duties as assistant coach are to help run footwork and drills, give épée lessons, and strip coach [provide advice during idle times in a bout]. Our coaching staff does a really good job working together, and Head Coach Ted Li has been an incredible mentor and role model for us all. Mr. Touhey: My duties are similar to those of Jason [Head Coach Jason Murdock]. I love the opportunity I’ve had to work with him. We work together to plan practices and discuss game plans. During games, my role shifts in order to best help him and the team—sometimes, it is talking to a player about a certain play, other times it’s bouncing ideas off Jason, or even managing substitutions. I keep him informed as to our timeouts/foul situations as well. I like to think that I am a bridge between the players and a head coach, helping to facilitate effective communication between both. Jason and I work to preach the same message, but we allow the players to hear it from different voices.

What are your own experiences with the sport? Ms. Coxe: Between a few high school and college ski trips, I had skied maybe a total of three times in my life when I became assistant coach. With the assistant coaching position came a ski pass to Mountain Creek, so I have improved a lot, along with the kids. When I began, rarely did I ski a run without falling four to five times. The kids ski down one at a time, and it would take all 12 kids skiing down for me to get to the bottom. But the kids were great about it, very supportive. By the end of the season, I could make it down with three kids left!

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“Pingry’s assistant coaches, most of whom are also full-time faculty members, are the backbone of Pingry’s athletics program. Not only are they content experts in their sport—or, when they don’t have the knowledge, they are willing to step in to fill a needed role—they are ambassadors of our school culture. They lift up kids in the hallways, check in on them in class, and make sure they’re developing in the classroom just as they are on the fields. They often grade papers in the bleachers, but they rarely get the accolades that head coaches receive.”

Carter Abbott

Director of Athletics

––––––––––––– Mr. Barr: I grew up on the South Side of Chicago, where there weren’t many opportunities to fence. I played tennis in high school, but always wanted to learn fencing. I always knew I would like it and, when I finally got the opportunity to try it, I fell in love. Fencing just kind of clicked for me. Nothing teaches you to live in the moment like having someone try to stab you with a sword. Once I got to college, I really dove head-first into the sport. And I still play—I practice a few times a week with the Atlantic Fencing Club in Red Bank, and work with an old coach of mine there from Northwestern. I competed in the National Championships in Baltimore in April [he competed in them last year as well], and usually play in three to four other national competitions a year. Mr. Touhey: When I was growing up, soccer was my main sport, and basketball took a back seat. But I started improving in basketball, and, by high school, it took a front seat. My senior year, we won the League Championship for the first time in my school’s history. To go from 6-20 my freshman year to 21-4 my senior year was pretty amazing. I had opportunities to play Division III in college, but I decided to go to Lehigh

instead and focus on my academics. My junior year in college, my high school coach asked if I wanted to come back and help. I did, and I really loved it. That’s what got me into teaching. I was majoring in Chemical Engineering, and that coaching experience really opened my eyes to considering a career in teaching, knowing that I would also have opportunities to coach.

Coaching is a big time commitment. What drives you to do it? What do you enjoy most about it? Mr. Barr: At Pingry, I get to teach economics, which I very much missed at my last school. I get to coach fencing, which I love. And I get to fill in as needed to help the varsity tennis teams. I get to share all these interests of mine with kids who are equally interested. It’s really fun. I feel very lucky in this way. Ms. Coxe: The ski team is a tightly-knit bunch. For a lot of them, skiing is their only sport in school and they have a lot of pride in it. They all really support each other. And they’re really appreciative of the work Christine and I do because they realize how much time it takes. Three to four times a week during the season, we leave school at 2:45 p.m., drive for almost an hour-and-a-half to get to the mountain, practice for two hours, get back on the bus, and arrive on campus by 7:30 p.m. Same for races. It’s a long day and gets to be a long season, but the enthusiasm of the kids makes it great. Mr. Touhey: I love how coaching gives you the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. I’m big on players being unselfish, on having the guys get more excited about an assist than a score. On my JV team two years ago [Mr. Touhey used to serve as Head Coach of the JV team], I remember a game during which the guys truly got excited about assists. They were just going crazy for each other; it clicked and it was genuine. That was an awesome moment. In the classroom, when it “clicks” for a student, it’s just as much of a high. SUMMER 2017

Athletics

BIG BLUE ROUNDUP Winter 2016-17 Season

Boys’ Basketball: 10-13

Boys’ Swimming: 11-1

Skyland Conference/ Mountain Division: 3rd place

NJSIAA Non-Public B Championships: 1st place— Pingry’s 10th consecutive state championship

Girls’ Basketball: 13-13 Boys’ Fencing: 4-10 Somerset County Tournament Individual Achievements

NJISAA Prep A Championships: 1st place— Pingry’s 3rd consecutive Prep Championship

Malcolm Fields: 1st place in sabre

Somerset County Championships: 1st place

Graham Matthews: 3rd place in épée Apurva Memani: 3rd place in foil

Skyland Conference Championships: 1st place, including a sweep of all three relays

Cetrulo Boys Team Tournament: Sabre team placed 2nd

Girls’ Swimming: 5-5

Skyland Conference Freshman/Sophomore Tournament Individual Achievement

Claire O’Mara set team records in the 400 freestyle and 100 fly, and was undefeated in regular season individual events

Chris Yu: 1st place in sophomore sabre

Girls’ Fencing: 9-7 NJSIAA Individual States Aubrey Molloy: 3rd place in foil NJSIAA “Sweet 16”: Quarterfinalists Skyland Conference Freshman/Sophomore Tournament Individual Achievements Alison Li: 2nd place in foil Jamie Wang: 3rd place in épée

Boys’ Ice Hockey: 8-8-5

Boys’ Winter Track & Field Ben Vazquez placed 1st in 800 at Preps, and 2nd in 800 at the Non-Public B State Championships Sean Wang, Ben Vazquez, Evan Taylor, and Bert Yu placed 2nd in 4x4 at the NonPublic B State Championships

Girls’ Winter Track & Field NJSIAA Non-Public B: 1st place—1st state championship since 2009 and 2nd in program history. The team medaled in every event. NJSIAA Non-Public B Relay Championships: 1st place

Girls’ Ice Hockey: 11-13-1

Wrestling: 9-11

Boys’ Skiing: 4-28 Petro Qualifier: 3rd place

Girls’ Skiing: 7-24 Boys’ Squash: 15-3 Girls’ Squash: 9-3

In Cambridge, MA over Spring Break, seven Pingry students competed in US SQUASH’s Junior National Championships, which gathers the top 64 nationally-ranked players in each age/gender division. What’s more, freshman Jacob Bulbulia came away from the event a national champion. Having played #4 on the Boys’ Squash Team and amassing an impressive 11-4 record, Jacob won the Boys’ Junior National U15 title on March 19. The victory capped off a successful freshman season, which included winning the deciding match in both of the team’s wins at the National High School Team Championships the weekend of February 10-12 (the team earned a 10th-place national ranking; the girls’ team finished 18th). He also earned the season’s “Most Improved Player” honor.

NJISAA Prep A Championships: 1st place

Skyland Conference: tied for 3rd place WIHLMA: 3rd place

Squash Players Place 1st and 2nd at Junior National Championships

Jacob Bulbulia ’20.

Pingry senior Sam Scherl, a three-time High School All-American, also competed in the Junior National Championships, advancing to the U19 finals, where he lost to Andrew Douglas, a senior at Packer Collegiate. Julia Masch ’17, Rachel Chen ’18, Renée Chan ’20, Krish Bhavnani ’18, and Chris Zachary ’19 rounded out the Big Blue roster in the prestigious national event. In doubles action, Renée and Rachel placed second in the Girls’ U19 National Doubles Championship in Wilmington, DE on April 2.

Somerset County Tournament: Frankie Dillon, Thomas Tarantino, and Brandon Spellman placed 2nd District 19 Tournament: Brandon Spellman and Aidan Dillon placed 2nd. Frankie Dillon and Thomas Tarantino placed 3rd. Renée Chan ’20 and Rachel Chen ’18.

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Girls’ Track & Field Team Wins Group State Relay Championships & State Group Championship Girls’ Swimming Team Wins Prep Championship The girls’ team topped the next closest competitor, Lawrenceville, by over 70 points to claim the Prep Championship. Darlene Fung ’19 placed first in the 50-yard freestyle (23.89), Lindsay Rispoli ’18 won the 100-yard breaststroke (1:04.76), and Naiyah Atulomah ’18 finished second in the 100-yard freestyle (53.52). The team also won all three relays: Grace O’Mara ’19, Naiyah, Claire O’Mara ’17, and Darlene finished first in the 200-freestyle relay (1:38.20); Allie Riddell ’19, Lindsay, Claire, and Darlene won the 200-yard medley relay (1:48.67); and Darlene, Martha Lewand ’20, Claire, and Naiyah placed first in the 400-yard freestyle relay.

10 Years, 10 State Titles, One Historic Boys’ Swimming Team The team’s championship winning streak began with a Skyland Conference victory on January 21, followed by a victory at the Somerset County Championships on February 4, and, just three days later, a Prep Championship win. It was only fitting that, on February 25, wrapping up their regular season competition, the Boys’ Swimming Team would defeat Oratory Prep 131-39 in the NJSIAA Non-Public B finals to become only the second team in the history of New Jersey high school swimming to win a state title for 10 consecutive years. In a laudatory article, NJ.com called the program “deep and talented,” recognizing the ease with which they compete alongside perennial state powerhouses, nearly all of which are much larger schools than Pingry. Following their Prep Championship win in early February, Head Coach Steve Droste P ’25 called the team the most talented in his more than 20 years of coaching at Pingry (having coached two Olympic Trials qualifiers, Nic Fink ’11 and Sebastian Lutz ’15, he knows talent). During their remarkable journey, they were only the third team in the history of Pingry’s boys’ swimming program to win the conference, county, and Prep titles in a single season.

On January 19, the team won the NJSIAA Non-Public B Relay Championships. A month later, they secured the Non-Public B state championship as well, the program’s first since 2009. Several first-place finishes launched them to victory and helped them to surpass their next closest competitor, Villa Walsh, by 40 points. Anna Wood ’18 won the 3200 (11:42.08), Avery Schiffman ’18 edged out a Kent Place competitor by 0.1 seconds to win the 800 (2:23.14), and Julia Dannenbaum ’17 placed first in the pole vault in a personal best and meet record of 12'2", the highest jump of all female and male competitors among both nonpublic A and B schools. Her sister Caroline ’20 placed second with a jump of 10’6”. Teammate Carol Ann Perry ’20 placed third, helping Big Blue to sweep the event. Carol Ann also placed second in the high jump, clearing 4’10”. Avery, Kierstyn Brown ’20, Allyson Bisgay ’17, and Cathleen Parker ’19 placed second in the 4x400-meter relay.

Julia Dannenbaum ’17 Wins Gold at Meet of Champions Wrapping up a successful senior-year winter track season, which included winning the Non-Public B state pole vault event in a personal best (and meet record) of 12' 2", Julia Dannenbaum ’17 went on, the following weekend, to clinch another huge win at the Meet of Champions. At an event that draws the best of the best from across New Jersey, she jumped 12' to earn gold, becoming one of just a handful of student-athletes in Pingry history—and the first girl—to win a Meet of Champions event. Two days later, at Eastern States Championships, an even larger competition at the Armory Track & Field Center in New York City, Julia placed third in a new personal best of 12' 6". That her sister Caroline, a freshman, was right behind her in seventh place (11'6"), was yet another storyline in the exciting Big Blue pole vaulting accomplishments that unfolded over the 2017 winter track season. Freshman Carol Ann Perry, who was also a key player in the event, rounded out the impressive threesome.

SUMMER 2017

Wrestler Frankie Dillon ’17 Advances to State Championship A captain, Frankie Dillon had a momentous senior season, filled with medals, including second place at the Somerset County Tournament, second place at the Rutgers Prep Tournament, and third place at the District 19 Tournament in mid-February. However, it was the day he was eliminated at the regional tournament last year, in March 2016, that his real goal became crystal clear: to make the 2017 state tournament. In the regional finals at the end of February, by virtue of a dramatic 7-5 overtime victory over Rumson Fair-Haven’s Nick Addison—the same wrestler who defeated him 6-5 in the district semifinals just one week earlier—Frankie earned revenge and broke Pingry’s 12-year drought, becoming the school’s first state qualifier since 2005.

Malcolm Fields ’18 Named USA Fencing All-American A Big Blue fencer since Grade 7, who competes in numerous regional, national, and international tournaments—including the Junior Olympics in February 2017—Malcolm Fields ’18 was named to the High School AllAmerican First Team by USA Fencing. High School All-Americans include fencers from across the country who have not only achieved at a high level on the fencing strip, but also exhibit exceptional leadership and sportsmanship as an athlete, student, and member of their community. Along with his fellow honorees, Malcolm will receive a certificate of achievement and recognition this summer at the 2017 National Championships in Salt Lake City, where he will compete in the Junior (under-19), Senior (19 and up), and Senior Team Men’s Sabre events. 66

THE PINGRY REVIEW

Basketball Player Megan Horn ’18 Reaches 1,000 Points In a game against Newark Collegiate, in which she scored a game-high 24 points and four 3-pointers, Megan Horn ’18 became only the second female basketball player—and first junior—at Pingry to reach 1,000 points. (Katie Occhipinti ’08 was the first; and last winter, Drew Gagnon ’16 accomplished the same feat, as a senior.) Her path to 1,000 points has been a steady one. As a freshman point guard on the varsity team, Megan made an immediate impact, averaging 9.6 points and 2.2 assists. The following year, she averaged 14.2 points and 3.1 assists, and started every game. As a junior, her points-per-game average more than doubled compared to her freshman campaign, and she is a leading player in the conference. On February 13, NJ.com named her among the top 3-point shooters in the state, averaging 2.7 per game.

Two Skiers Compete in Race of Champions From a roster of six on the Girls’ Skiing Team, Annie Leithead ’19 and Lindsey Hogan ’18 competed in the Race of Champions (ROCs). Over

Annie Leithead ’19 and Lindsey Hogan ’18.

the course of six ski races during the season—three giant slalom and three slalom races—Annie and Lindsey performed well enough to qualify for and compete in the difficult end-of-season competition, ROCs. With several fourth-place finishes and one second-place finish, Annie ended her regular season 16th overall in the state, earning a total of 78 points. Lindsey placed 27th in the state with a total of 57 points (this was her second time qualifying for ROCs, and first time competing).

NCAA Division I Letter-of-Intent Signings Cece Lesnick ’17—Lafayette College—Tennis Before joining the Pingry community as a sophomore, Cece played #1 singles for Wellesley High School in Wellesley, MA, reaching the quarterfinals of the Massachusetts High School State Singles Tournament. She immediately made an impact on Big Blue, assuming the #1 singles position. As captain her senior year, she closed the season with a 14-1 first singles record and led the team to championship titles at the Somerset County and state group tournaments. A Skyland Conference “Player of the Year” awardee, Cece has won sportsmanship awards three times in local tournaments, including at the New Balance High School Tennis Championship.

Mary Pagano ’17—Georgetown University—Lacrosse Captain of the field hockey, basketball, and lacrosse teams her senior year, Mary has been a three-sport athlete and 12-season letter winner since her arrival at Pingry her freshman year. She was the leading scorer

on the Girls’ Varsity Lacrosse Team at Pingry for the last two years (she was also the leading goal scorer on the field hockey team last fall). Among her lacrosse accolades, the midfielder was named to the Skyland Conference First Team, the Courier News All-Area First Team, and The Star-Ledger All-State/All-Group First Team her junior year. In May, when she netted her 200th lacrosse goal, Director of Athletics and Girls’ Varsity Lacrosse Head Coach Carter Abbott noted, “Having a player like Mary in our program has helped to put Pingry girls’ lacrosse on the map. She raises the level of play of those around her, both in practices and in games. To reach 200 goals in a career is an amazing milestone, a tribute to her work ethic and talent.”

Amanda Van Orden ’17—Georgetown University— Field Hockey Also a key member of Big Blue’s Varsity Softball Team, Amanda was captain of both teams in 2016-17. A four-year varsity player and three-year starter on the field hockey team, the goalie has earned numerous honors during her high school career, including an NFHCA Scholar-Athlete award and a spot on The Star-Ledger’s 2015 “Save Leaders,” with 194 saves. During the 2016 season, she led the team to an appearance in the county final, the program’s first in over 10 years, and earned a spot on Max Field Hockey’s “Top 2017 Players in the Country” list. * This list does not include Pingry students attending Ivy League Division I schools, for whom Letters of Intent are not signed.

Mary Pagano ’17, Cece Lesnick ’17, and Amanda Van Orden ’17. SUMMER 2017

Mary Pagano ’17, Sarah Moseson ’17, Zach Keller ’17, Julia Dannenbaum ’17, Sam Scherl ’17, Thomas Tarantino ’17, and Jake Mayer ’17.

Seven Scholar-Athletes

Varsity Field Hockey Team’s New Head Coach: Julie Delinsky

Every year, seven Pingry seniors are chosen to represent the School as scholar-athletes in Somerset County, the Skyland Conference, the NJISAA, and the NJSIAA.

Succeeding Judy Lee, one of Pingry’s longest-serving varsity coaches and a New Jersey Coaches Hall of Fame inductee, who led the Varsity Field Hockey Team since 1985, is winning coach and former Division I player Julie Delinsky. From 2006 to 2013, Mrs. Delinsky—who received a master’s degree in Sports Administration from St. Thomas University and a second master’s degree in Clinical Counseling from Johns Hopkins University—served as Head Coach of the Varsity Field Hockey Team at The Bullis School in Potomac, MD. She oversaw both the middle and high school programs and led a varsity team that experienced eight consecutive winning seasons during her tenure. In 2012, the team was undefeated, and, for the first time in the school’s history, won the Independent School League (ISL) Championship.

Somerset County Jake Mayer ’17—Golf Mary Pagano ’17—Field Hockey, Basketball, Lacrosse Skyland Conference Zach Keller ’17—Basketball and Baseball Julia Dannenbaum ’17— Track & Field NJISAA Sam Scherl ’17—Squash Sarah Moseson ’17—Soccer, Basketball, Track & Field NJSIAA Thomas Tarantino ’17—Cross Country, Wrestling, Track & Field

Along with coaching, Mrs. Delinsky held several other roles at The Bullis School, including Athletic Director (2008-2010); Grade 7 and 8 health teacher (2006-2008); Assistant Director of Financial Aid and Admissions Associate (2008-2010); and Lower and Middle School Counselor (2012-2014). In this last position, she developed and implemented a social and emotional education curriculum for students in Grades 2 through 8 and provided direct counseling. Prior to The Bullis School, Mrs. Delinsky was Head Coach of the Field Hockey Team at The Academy

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of the Holy Cross in Kensington, MD, leading the school to its first WCAC League Championship in 2003, with a repeat appearance a year later. For five years, she also served as coach of the Washington Wolves and the Jackals, elite regional field hockey clubs that develop youth talent. At the University of Miami in Ohio, where she earned a B.A. in Speech Communication, Mrs. Delinsky was a four-year member of the school’s Division I Varsity Field Hockey Team, serving as captain both her junior and senior years. As a senior, she was named MVP. Joining a mid-pack college team after being part of a state championship team all four years at her high school (BethesdaChevy Chase High School in Maryland), she learned valuable character lessons from each experience, and these lessons are what she appreciates most about the sport: “Hard work, dedication, success, failure, teamwork—I just love being a part of and facilitating these skills. To see a team come together and work together, watching girls develop an appreciation for one another, even if they’re not the closest of friends, is such a gratifying experience as a coach.” In 2014, Mrs. Delinsky’s husband Andrew, who was Assistant Head of School and Upper School Principal at The Bullis School, was offered the position of Headmaster at The Peck School, and their family (they have three children) relocated to New Jersey. In the fall of 2014 and 2015, she served as an assistant coach for Oak Knoll’s Varsity Field Hockey Team, as well as head coach of their JV team in 2015.

College Athlete Accolades

Field Hockey

Men’s Lacrosse

Eric Rogers ’14 (Middlebury College) was named to the Division III All-American Second Team. As a sophomore, he was named All-American Third Team. Jonathan Butler ’15 (Harvard University) was named to the All-Ivy League Second Team. A starting defenseman for all 13 of the team’s games his sophomore season, he was continually assigned to the opposing team’s best offensive player, causing a team-high 15 turnovers and picking up 25 ground balls. A three-year defensive player for Big Blue, Jonathan helped lead the team to the 2015 Non-Public B State Championship. His senior year, he received Star-Ledger All-State

Austin Chang ’16 (Swarthmore College) scored a season-high six goals when Swarthmore upset No. 15 Gettysburg in a 10-8 victory on April 8 in Gettysburg—the men’s lacrosse program’s first win over Gettysburg since 1985. As of that game, Austin’s six goals were also the most in any game for Swarthmore during the season.

Women’s Soccer

Her senior year, Carly Rotatori ’13 (Harvard University) was named captain for the second consecutive year; she was named to the All-Ivy League First Team; anchored a midfield that helped push Harvard to an 11-game undefeated streak; and helped the team to seven shutouts, including four in Ivy League play.

Softball

Credit: Marcus Snowden

Katie Ruesterholz ’13 (Columbia University) served as captain her senior year; is the program’s all-time leader in goals (44) and points (107); had the most game-winning goals in 2016 (3); is a four-time All-Ivy League selection; was named to the NFHCA All-Mideast Region Second Team for the second time; and tied for second in the Ivy League in points (37) and goals (15), which are both the second-highest totals in program history.

First Team Honors, was a US Lacrosse High School All-American, and received Pingry’s Centennial Cup.

During the team’s home debut against Michigan State, Katie had an RBI double and “three tremendous plays,” according to the team’s website. One of these, “a foul ball curling toward the fence up the first base line was caught by the sliding Notre Dame second baseman Marino, punctuating a decisive second out.” ESPN’s SportsCenter agreed it was a standout play and aired it in their nightly round-up. The team went on to defeat Michigan 11-3 in five innings. The standout freshman enjoyed ESPN air time yet again

on May 24—coming in at #7, once again—when she recorded an incredible out in a game against East Tennessee State.

Women’s Swimming

Competing in the NESCAC Championship in February, Ingrid Shu ’16 (Amherst College) won the 50-yard freestyle, and Morgan Burke ’13 (Middlebury College) placed 8th in the same event.

Katie Marino ’16 (University of Notre Dame) made news on March 22, only a few weeks into her freshman campaign, earning media attention that most collegiate athletes can only dream of: a #7 spot in ESPN SportsCenter’s “Top 10 Plays of the Night.”

Scholar-Athlete Achievements Katie Ruesterholz ’13 (Field Hockey - Columbia University)— Academic All-Ivy Carly Rotatori ’13 (Soccer - Harvard University)—Academic All-Ivy Henry Flugstad-Clarke ’13 (Soccer - Yale University)—Academic All-Ivy JC Sorenson ’15 (Men’s Lacrosse - University of Michigan)— Academic All-Big Ten NESCAC—New England Small College Athletic Conference NFHCA—National Field Hockey Coaches Association NJFHCA—North Jersey Field Hockey Coaches Association NJGSCA—New Jersey Girls Soccer Coaches Association NJISAA—New Jersey Independent Schools Athletic Association NJSIAA—New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association WIHLMA—Women’s Interscholastic Hockey League of the Mid-Atlantic

Ingrid Shu ’16 (Amherst College), Alli Dorneo ’14 (Tufts University), and Morgan Burke ’13 (Middlebury College), all of whom swam together at Pingry, competed against each other at the NESCAC Championships.

Listed are the honors and achievements that The Pingry Review is aware of as of press time. We are always happy to receive news about our college athletes. SUMMER 2017

Celebrate Reunion 2017

AFS Students—50 Years Apart! Reunion Weekend kicked off a day early with the arrival of the Class of 1967’s AFS student, Carlos Monroy (Pingry has been hosting AFS [American Field Service] students since 1960). Mr. Monroy, a native of Madrid and a professor of management courses at the Technical University of Madrid, flew in from Spain with his wife Amparo Martinez to join the class for their 50th Reunion. Pingry’s 2016-17 AFS student, Luis Mora Ortiz ’18, is also from Madrid! Kelly Jordan P ’04, ’06, retiring Magistri teacher and AFS Advisor for over 20 years, coordinated a meeting for Mr. Monroy and Luis on Thursday on the Basking Ridge Campus, where they conversed in their native tongue.

Carlos Monroy ’67, Amparo Martinez, and Luis Mora Ortiz ’18.

Lunch in the Engel Dining Room: Honorary Trustee Bill Engel ’67, Carlos Monroy ’67, Upper School Spanish teacher Gerardo Vazquez P ’18, ’19, AFS Club member Alisa Chokshi ’19, Nabeel Jan ’19 (whose family will host the 2017-18 AFS student), Amparo Martinez, Luis Mora Ortiz ’18, AFS Club member Ouarida Benatia ’18, and then-AFS Advisor Kelly Jordan P ’04, ’06.

Reunion 2017 [ 1 ] Sara Farber ’92, Leslie Helmstaedter Philipsen ’92, and Jeff Tong ’92. [ 2 ] The Balladeers and Buttondowns performing at the 50-Year Club

Luncheon, which is open to the 50th Reunion Class and all earlier years. [ 3 ] Warren Leiden ’67, Peter Kurz ’67, John Plum ’67, Carlos Monroy ’67, Dr. Mike Lewis ’67, Bill Rosenberg ’67, P ’03, Paul Monroe ’67, Mike Prior ’67, Ford Livengood ’67, P ’03, Bob Colford ’67, Joe Cornwall ’67, John Britton ’67, Don Tansey ’67, P ’00, Dr. Aaron Welt ’67, P ’06, Derek Walker ’67, Stew Wheller ’67, Gordon Cunningham ’67, Des O’Callaghan ’67, Brian Hughes ’67, George Ways ’67, Ramsey Terhune ’67, Honorary Trustee Bill Engel ’67, Vic Pfeiffer ’67, and Steve Naylon ’67. [ 4 ] Dr. Mike Lewis ’67 at the Alumni Welcome Breakfast in the C.B. Newton Library’s reading room. In the background is a portrait of Mr. Newton, who served as Pingry Headmaster from 1920 to 1936. [ 5 ] Sandra Hough 07, Anna Porges Sheridan ’07, and Michelle Aueron ’07. [ 6 ] Lindsay (Holmes) Glogower ’99 and David M. Fahey ’99 with Lennon, Bowie, and Wynafred.

SUMMER 2017

Alumni Lacrosse Game—Celebrating Milestones for Coach Mike Webster and the 2017 Team Prior to the annual Alumni Lacrosse Game, in which alumni compete against members of the current varsity team, Brad Bonner ’93, P ’20, ’23, ’25 and Boys’ Varsity Lacrosse Assistant Coach Patrick Birotte ’87, P ’20 recognized Boys’ Varsity Lacrosse Head Coach Mike Webster P ’24, ’27, ’27 for 30 years as a Pingry lacrosse coach (he was an assistant in 1988 and became head coach in 1989). To commemorate the occasion and Coach Webster’s mantra of “Head, Heart, Hustle,” players received alumni lacrosse T-shirts that read “Head Heart and Hustle: Three Decades of Wisdom from Coach Mike Webster.” Coach Birotte, who has worked with Coach Webster for 16 years, said, “His dedication and passion have kept me here. My brother is out in California, so he’s my brother right here.” Coach Webster praised the 2017 team for two milestones: the boys’ lacrosse program’s 500th victory, and the most games ever won in a four-year span (62 as of the end of the season). Right: Brad Bonner ’93, P ’20, ’23, ’25, Boys’ Varsity Lacrosse Head Coach Mike Webster P ’24, ’27, ’27, and Boys’ Varsity Lacrosse Assistant Coach Patrick Birotte ’87, P ’20.

Attendees included Larry Hallett ’75, Josh Gradwohl ’80, Tom Rusen ’89, Brian Combias ’06, Skot Koenig ’77, Wyatt Kasserman ’99, P ’29, Boys’ Varsity Lacrosse Head Coach Mike Webster P ’24, ’27, ’27, Steve Newes ’78, Brad Bonner ’93, P ’20, ’23, ’25, Jake Moss ’17, former assistant coach Howard Shirley, Drew Brosie ’17, AJ Bernstein ’17, JC Sorenson ’15, Johnny Graves ’17, Charles Papandreou ’17, Frankie Dillon ’17, Brett Zanelli ’17, Ryan Boylan ’17, Ollie Martin ’17, Lucas Monserrat ’17, David Metzger ’17, Spencer Duryee ’17, Stephen Daigle ’17, Jake Simon ’17, Taylor Wright ’12, Ben Muller ’12, Johnny Roberts ’12, Alex Castle ’12, Doug Lachenauer ’15, Jamie Ogden ’12, Jonathan Butler ’15, Ben Shepard ’16, Thomas Zusi ’16, Boys’ Varsity Ice Hockey Head Coach Emeritus John Magadini, and Boys’ Varsity Lacrosse Assistant Coach Patrick Birotte ’87, P ’20.

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Reunion 2017 [ 7 ] Front row (holding banner): Tracy (Haberle) Kemp ’87, Charlotte Stafford ’87, Wendy Reiken-Waldron ’87, and Melissa Weiss Moriarty ’87, P ’23, ’25. Back row: Steve Johnson ’87, David Jacobson ’87, Todd Gibby ’87, Tim Moriarty ’87, P ’23, ’25, Julie Kaufman Betancur ’87, Katharine Campbell Outcalt ’87, Mike Green ’87, and Elizabeth Kellogg Winterbottom ’87, P ’21, ’23. [ 8 ] Capturing the memories—Fred Rapell ’45 at the 50-Year Club Luncheon. [ 9 ] Lori Schaffhauser ’92, Dave Anderson ’92, and Lexi Fickenscher ’92. [ 10 ] Front row: Sarah Williams ’12, Annie Vreeland ’12, Ashley Hough ’12, Liz Jolley ’12, and Roxanne Feitel ’12. Back row: Emily Damstrom ’12, Corey DeLaney ’12, Alex Castle ’12, Will Kelly ’12, and Johnny Roberts ’12. [ 11 ] Jack Angell ’57, P ’90, Mike Hilgendorff ’57, P ’89 ’89, John Leathers ’57, and Hilton Jervey ’57, P ’78, ’82. [ 12 ] Blue Key member Drew Beckmen ’19 taking members of the Class of 1967 on a tour of the Basking Ridge Campus. In the background are a few of the class pictures (dating to the early 1900s) that are displayed throughout the building. [ 13 ] Catherine and Frank Ali ’62 with Rona Sue and John Geddes ’62, P ’95.

SUMMER 2017

Dr. Aaron Welt ’67 Receives Nelson L. Carr ’24 Service Award

Will Welt ’06, Dr. Aaron Welt ’67, P ’06, and Will’s fiancée Rachel Merkin. As is tradition, Saturday’s Annual Meeting of Alumni included the presentation of The Nelson L. Carr ’24 Service Award. Named in 1992 for Mr. Carr, who served as PAA President (1942-43) and received Pingry’s Letter-in-Life Award (1982), it is given for faithful and dedicated service to Pingry. Since this award is always a surprise for the recipient, Honorary Trustee Bill Engel ’67 had the delight of surprising his classmate when he presented Dr. Aaron Welt ’67, P ’06 with the award.

Reunion 2017 [ 14 ] Members of the Class of 1967 in the garden during a tour of the former Hillside Campus (now Kean University). When Pingry was in Hillside, the spot was named the Fiske Garden. [ 15 ] Honorary Trustee Bill Engel ’67, Warren Leiden ’67, and Miller Bugliari ’52, P ’86, ’90, ’97, GP ’20, ’24. [ 16 ] David Mebane ’77, Chuck Allan ’77, Beth Mebane, Chuck Allen, Kip Haselton ’77, P ’12, Kerry Haselton P ’12, Grant Smith, Jr. ’77, P ’19, ’22, ’28, Frank DeLaney ’77, P ’12, Erick Swingle ’77, Deidre Swingle, Dr. Jim Boozan ’77, Kyle Warendorf ’77, Laureen Carlson ’77, Kevin Walsh ’77 (kneeling), Ray Conte ’77, Anne DeLaney ’79 and Chip Carver, Jr. ’77, P ’09, ’11, ’14, ’14, Florence Aton, Dr. Judd Allen ’77, and Bill Corbet III ’77. [ 17 ] Marissa von Nessi ’12, Bryan James ’12, Tom O’Reilly ’12, Stuart O’Keeffe ’12, Kit Tyson ’12, Freddy Elliot ’12, KC Eboh ’12, Matt Lipper ’12, Adrienne Sozansky ’12, and Mai-Lee Picard ’12. [ 18 ] Kyra Topor ’12, Cailee Cassidy ’12, Marisa Werner ’12, Elise Lang ’12, Rebecca Curran ’12, Grace Putman ’12, and Kate Leib ’12. [ 19 ] Caitlin Koles ’07, Liz Castle ’07, Caroline Kwon ’07, and Alex Golding ’07.

Mr. Engel spoke first about Mr. Carr and his family, “who were always doing something for Pingry.” In particular, when Pingry was struggling in the early part of the 20th century (explained in more detail on page 88), Mr. Carr’s father helped the School by visiting the platform of the North Elizabeth Train Station to try to convince the passengers to send their sons to Pingry. Then, Mr. Engel shared that Dr. Welt was a proud Pingry lifer and has been active with the School since graduating: he has attended Pingry events for three decades; hosted Reunion class parties with his late wife Sheila Welt P ’06 (“our class mother”), including the 25th Reunion party that proved to be a “watershed Reunion because it really solidified the class”; served multiple terms on the PAA Board, including membership on a number of committees; spoken at Career Day; volunteered for The Pingry Fund; and volunteered for Reunion. “Aaron is always thinking about Pingry and things that could help Pingry, just like Nelson did,” Mr. Engel said. In receiving the award, Dr. Welt beckoned to his son Will ’06 and Will’s fiancée Rachel to join him at the podium as he commented, “I am so moved, this is so appreciated, and I am happy to celebrate with my class,” whose 50-year Reunion was being celebrated that weekend.

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SUMMER 2017

Reunion 2017 [ 20 ] Frank Morano ’97, Alicia (Bronski) Adams ’97, Lori Siegel Rabinowitz ’97, Randi Schnur ’97, and Aimee Sostowski ’97. [ 21 ] Dr. Mark Erickson ’61, Ray Erickson ’64, and Glenn Erickson ’64. [ 22 ] Pingry’s free, round-trip Reunion bus from Manhattan, with nearly 50 Pingry alumni anticipating a great evening. Thank you to “bus captains” Rebecca Curran ’12 and Marisa Werner ’12.

Middle School Pen Pal Program Earlier in the school year, the Class of 1967 exchanged letters with seventhgrade students, an opportunity for today’s students to learn about life at Pingry 50 years ago, and for the alumni to learn about life at Pingry today. On Friday morning of Reunion Weekend, the Class of 1967 met their pen pals in The Wilf Family Commons of The Carol and Park B. Smith ’50 Middle School and then engaged in question-and-answer sessions in classrooms. Right: Des O’Callaghan ’67 with his two pen pals.

21 Vic Pfeiffer ‘67 talking with his pen pal, as well as other students in an advisory group.

John Britton ’67, Mike Prior ’67, and Bob Colford ’67 with their pen pals as well as other students in the advisory group of then-Middle School math teacher Tom Boyer P ’96, ’98 (Mr. Boyer retired from teaching at the end of the school year; a tribute will appear in the fall issue).

To see all photos from Reunion Weekend, visit pingry.org/ reunion2017 and use “Pingry1861” for the password. 76

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Arts Honor for Adam Gardner ’91 of Guster and REVERB

Adam Gardner ’91 accepting his award from Trustee Steve Lipper ’79, P ’09, ’12, ’14, Co-Chair of the Achievement in the Arts Award Committee.

Continuing a tradition established in 2012 to recognize the importance of the arts at Pingry and to honor alumni who have made significant contributions to the arts, the School presented its Achievement in the Arts Award in May. This year’s recipient is Adam Gardner ’91, co-founder, guitarist, and vocalist of the popular rock band Guster, which has sold over one million records since its founding in 1992. He is also Co-Executive Director and Co-Founder of REVERB, which engages with bands and individual musicians to green their tours, and engages with concertgoers to take action to protect the environment. “When I was told about this award, I was thrilled to hear that it even existed,” Mr. Gardner told Upper School students at the ceremony. “There seems to be this new focus on the arts at Pingry—when I was here, there wasn’t even an arts wing.” Even though he did not have the benefit of the Hostetter Arts Center, Mr. Gardner made it clear that his musical talents were nurtured at Pingry— in both official and unofficial channels. “Singing in the Buttondowns and the Glee Club made us almost cool… almost,” he said with a laugh. He even launched a band in Grade 8 and played in the lunch room, the gymnasium, and the auditorium. “I started performances right on this stage when I was your age.” Mr. Gardner thanked some of the

teachers who made an impact on him at Pingry. “Mr. Little was the music director at the time,” he said. “He taught me not just the technical side—how to read music—but how to express it and perform it—all the stuff in between the notes on the page, how to connect with people and make it yours.” Mr. Gardner’s senior-year ISP marked the first time he had written a song, recorded it formally, and performed it for an audience. “That experience really informed where I am now,” he said. He also cited a “community and culture of collaboration”—and Pat Lionetti P ’85, ’88, ’89, psychologist and school counselor at the time, who allowed Mr. Gardner and his friends to have jam sessions in her office—as key components to his future success. Mr. Gardner encouraged students to take advantage of the “safe space” provided by Pingry to explore their interests and “learn who you are academically, socially, athletically, artistically, and spiritually.” He stressed that finding one’s passion does not necessarily have to be careeroriented: “You’re not going here to get a job—you’re becoming a whole person, discovering who you are and what gives you fulfillment.”

During a video presentation, and later during his visit to the freshman class “Art Fundamentals—Art with a Social Conscience,” Mr. Gardner spoke of the non-profit organization he co-founded in 2004 with his wife Lauren Sullivan: REVERB. The organization helps introduce environmental sustainability to touring musicians and concert venues. By nature, touring has a huge environmental impact; by implementing green practices such as biodiesel fuel for tour trucks and biodegradable materials at concert venues, bands can have a positive impact. “The message starts with you, and it spreads, reverberating outward,” Mr. Gardner said. REVERB has greened over 200 major music tours and festivals and over 5,000 concerts, partnering with artists including the Dave Matthews Band, Maroon 5, and John Mayer. Mr. Gardner’s impressive musical career and activism through art are, in his words, the result of the passion for music that he discovered—and developed—at Pingry. “It’s a little bit bonkers to think that you can be led so far down a path by a passion you discover early on in life,” he said. “This is where it can all start.”

Adam Gardner ’91 performing with Guster in Hauser Auditorium in 2012 during Pingry’s Sesquicentennial celebration. The event included Guster’s collaborator, artist Dr. Jon Sarkin ’71.

Guster’s founding members Adam Gardner ’91, Ryan Miller, and Brian Rosenworcel met at Tufts University. Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2017, Guster has sold over one million records—their most successful album, Ganging Up on the Sun (2006), peaked at number 25 on the Billboard 200 charts and was named “Album of the Year” at the Boston Music Awards.

SUMMER 2017

Collaboration and Connections in Art by Joanne Steinhardt ’84

Glass etchings, photography, and unusual cookbooks greeted visitors when they entered the Hostetter Arts Center Gallery in May, all created by artist Joanne Steinhardt ’84, P ’15, the subject of this year’s Alumni Art Exhibit.

Above: “Etched Exchange” with text by Ms. Steinhardt. Below: “Same” with text by Ms. Steinhardt.

Double-Sided Glass Etchings “These etchings are intended to be understood best by exhibit viewers who collaborate by reading simultaneously from opposite directions,” Ms. Steinhardt says. “Anything taken alone, or in solitary, can hold great meaning, but all meaning is heightened when something is experienced in a collaborative fashion. As one person, you can read the way you choose. But with another person, you get the full meaning through conversation—for example, you don’t have to reposition yourself. In any conversation, there’s ‘you,’ ‘me,’ and ‘we.’ My pieces bring out the ‘we’ when two people read them together. It was wonderful to see the students figure that out.” 78

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“If I Should Die.” For the text, Ms. Steinhardt combined poetry by Emily Dickinson (1830-1886) and Sylvia Plath (1932-1963) because “to me, they were each very much caught in-between—they weren’t of their time, but they did work that was important at the time. They belonged, but didn’t belong. They fit in, but didn’t fit in. They lived at different times, but experienced the same things, and I think it would have been fascinating if they met.”

–––––––––––––

“Collaboration is important to my art because we don’t exist by ourselves. To me, we’re social creatures, and, culturally, we have shifted to ‘I.’ We need to shift to ‘we’ and to ‘community.’”

Joanne Steinhardt ’84, P ’15 –––––––––––––

“One to Many,” digital prints on watercolor paper. These panels were taken before and after Ms. Steinhardt’s mother passed away—the pink panel about five days before, and the brown panel about five days after. Ms. Steinhardt wrote the words; the text on the pink panel speaks to “the end of a certain type of love,” while the text on the brown panel “revels in the notion of death as a quintessential moment of life.”

“Coffee Can” (from The Cookbook Project) and “Willow Brook.” Ms. Steinhardt’s use of non-traditional materials plays with the viewer’s definition of “book.”

Using handmade artist books, The Cookbook Project connects people through recipes, memories, and stories. Each volume begins with one of Ms. Steinhardt’s recipes, and each additional recipe must contain at least one ingredient from the preceding recipe (recipes are added by those whom Ms. Steinhardt invites to participate in the project, or those who have requested to participate). The project’s genesis occurred when she was learning about her family history and realized that meals represent shared experiences—specifically, meals can evoke memories.

Ms. Steinhardt praises the late Mike Popp, former Chair of the Visual Arts Department and photography teacher, for his mentorship. “He was an amazing, amazing man who encouraged creative thinking. He never demanded an answer from a question—he just asked more questions.”

SUMMER 2017

Henry G. Stifel III ’83 Receives Letter-in-Life Award The Letter-in-Life Award is the most prestigious honor bestowed upon a graduate by the Pingry Alumni Association. First presented in 1938, it honors those who, in gaining distinction for themselves, have brought honor to the School. Here is Mr. Stifel’s citation, presented at Commencement. Life for Henry G. Stifel III was forever changed in March 1982 when an automobile accident left him paralyzed during his junior year. The perseverance he had always demonstrated as a Pingry student-athlete was about to be tested in unimaginable ways. Scientific research on spinal cord injuries was minimal, and financial support was lacking because the medical community believed paralysis was permanent. Looking to prove otherwise, Mr. Stifel’s family launched the Stifel Paralysis Research Foundation in 1982. Determined to graduate with his classmates, Mr. Stifel continued his studies during rehabilitation at the Kessler Institute and the Craig Hospital. He returned to campus in December and—thanks to sheer hard work and support of faculty and friends— achieved his goal of graduating with his Pingry classmates in June 1983. He enrolled at Wright State University in September as a student and as a participant in a two-year paralysis research program testing the efficacy of using electrical currents as a potential treatment for paralysis. During his years at Wright State, Mr. Stifel continued learning about spinal cord injury and voiced his needs regarding wheelchair accessibility in order to regain his independence. Deciding to transfer to the College of William & Mary, Mr. Stifel was initially denied admission because of the school’s concerns about the physical limitations of its campus. William & Mary soon realized that decision instead belonged to Mr. Stifel. Proving once again his ability to control his own destiny, Mr. Stifel received an offer of acceptance and graduated from William & Mary with a Finance degree in 1988. 80

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The Stifel Paralysis Research Foundation continued to grow, eventually partnering with the American Paralysis Association. In 1995, Mr. Stifel became friends with a new patient at Kessler, a man just recently paralyzed from a riding accident. The patient was actor Christopher Reeve, and his friendship with Mr. Stifel ultimately led to the merger of the American Paralysis Association and the Christopher Reeve Foundation. The resulting Christopher Reeve Paralysis Foundation has since become what is now known worldwide as the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation. Mr. Stifel serves as its Vice Chairman, working tirelessly in support of the foundation’s mission to improve the quality of life for people living with paralysis while funding groundbreaking research in search of a cure for spinal cord injury. With a degree from William & Mary and a passion for financial markets, Mr. Stifel was determined to return to New York for a career in finance. Initially turned down by Morgan Stanley because of concerns regarding physical challenges and wheelchair accessibility, Mr. Stifel was eventually offered an informational interview. Seizing yet another chance to prove himself capable in the face of doubt and adversity, Mr. Stifel was hired by Morgan Stanley in June 1989 as an analyst in their public finance department. He has since moved into Private Wealth Management, where he is now Senior Vice President and a Certified Financial Analyst.

Henry G. Stifel III ‘83 with Mary Shea, Lily Coughlan, Stephanie Coughlan, Charlotte Stifel P ’83, Wendy Hansen, Caroline Hansen, and Charlotte Hansen.

In gratitude for the School’s support after his accident, Mr. Stifel remains an active and loyal member of the Pingry community. He served on the Board of Trustees from 2006 to 2015, and as Chair of the Development Committee and member of both the Investment and Buildings & Grounds Committees. Through his valued guidance, Pingry’s campuses have been made more physically accessible. Mr. Stifel has also served on the PAA Board and received The Cyril and Beatrice Baldwin Pingry Family Citizen of the Year Award in 2015. The courage, endurance, optimism, compassion, and spirit that Mr. Stifel has demonstrated since his accident are qualities celebrated at Pingry each year with the presentation of the Stifel Award. Since 1984, he has returned to campus for an assembly honoring a member of our community who has faced adversity. Mr. Stifel serves as a testament to living life to the fullest and looking at challenges as opportunities, not as obstacles. Pingry is proud to present Mr. Stifel with the 2017 Letter-in-Life Award, recognizing his determination to overcome adversity and to help thousands of others do the same.

Behind the Scenes with Henry G. Stifel III ’83 There are notable aspects of Mr. Stifel’s story and the history of spinal cord injury research that could not be included in his Letter-in-Life citation because of space limitations. The Pingry Review invites readers to learn more about this year’s award recipient:

Returning to Pingry and finishing his coursework Pingry arranged for tutoring while Mr. Stifel was in the hospital for nine months. When Mr. Stifel returned to school in December 1982, his teachers were ready to support him. They worked with him after school to review lessons, answer questions, and provide support as he took additional courses. Teachers also changed classrooms, as needed, to ensure that Mr. Stifel could attend school, because the Hillside Campus, like other schools and buildings at the time, was not wheelchair accessible. They offered alternative ways for him to take tests since he was unable to write; he dictated his answers or recorded them on a tape recorder.

Neuromodulation, also known as “spinal cord stimulation” (began as Functional Electrical Stimulation) An implantable electrode is placed on the lower portion of spinal cord (the dura), and a stimulator sends a current into the spinal cord at a constant rate, making the spinal cord hyper-sensitive to incoming signals. “Even though I have a spinal cord injury and I don’t have any sensation or movement below the level of my injury, there are still nerve fibers in my brain, attached to the cord. When I try to move my fingers and toes, they don’t move, but the signal is still going down. It’s just so weak that it’s not getting picked up. This hyper-sensitive stimulation of the spinal cord is almost like a hearing aid, and it amplifies those signals.”

Research within the American Paralysis Association (APA) Before merging with The Christopher Reeve Foundation, the APA had two research programs: an individual grants program and a research consortium. The goal of the individual grants program was to find novel ideas, provide seed money, and help the researcher reach the point of having enough data to apply to

Henry G. Stifel III ‘83 with members of his class who supported him after his accident and who joined him for the Letter-in-Life Luncheon: Dr. Mark McLaughlin ‘83, Dudley Ryan ‘83, Parish Ryan, Edward Meyercord III ‘83, Esther (Kaufman) Harper ‘83, Peter Harper, Alison Malin Zoellner ‘83, and Buffy Cave ‘83.

the National Institutes of Health (NIH) for a larger grant (“like one of our children leaving the nest”). The research consortium was a consortium of labs around the world that were willing to work collaboratively (share ideas, share post-doctoral fellows, work on joint experiments). “Today, our research consortium has created about 40 more labs solely focused on spinal cord injury—the post-doctoral fellows who were working for the principal investigators within our research consortium got their own labs at universities or research facilities and stayed in the field of spinal cord injury research.”

His work with the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation Mr. Stifel became more involved with the foundation after he moved back to New York and began working at Morgan Stanley. He has long been an advocate and mentor for newly-injured individuals. Today, in addition to being Vice Chair of the Board of Directors, he is a member of the foundation’s Paralysis Research Planning Committee, which is part of the Board and reports about current events in the field and discusses initiatives. “I want the foundation to be forwardthinking and cutting edge, and to support ideas that might not get supported otherwise. I also contact researchers or institutions that have been written about, to find out more. I have made great friendships with people who are

dedicating their lives to trying to change the outcome of spinal cord injuries. I completely respect what these brilliant people are doing and the risks they’re taking with their own careers on behalf of our community. I want them to have the ability to interact, on a regular basis, with the people whose lives they’re trying to change.”

Choosing the College of William & Mary Although Mr. Stifel chose to major in Business at Wright State University, he believed he was missing a core liberal arts education. Also, many of William & Mary’s campus buildings—those he would need to access regularly to be able to fully participate in his courses and other aspects of college—were wheelchair accessible, which contributed to his decision to attend the college after Wright State’s research program ended.

Reflecting on the Stifel Award “The School sees it as an important recognition. I am honored to help them recognize an incredible individual who has gone through, and might be continuing to go through, some challenging times. Everyone’s challenges are unique. The individual might have a mental issue or difficult physical situation—they may look absolutely normal, but their lives may be just as challenging, if not more, than mine. I don’t think of it as an award. I think of it as recognition.” SUMMER 2017

Where Are They Now?

Joe Lucas ’91 Uses Interior Design to Channel the Unexpected How did a theater major who was pursuing an acting career in Los Angeles become a nationallyrenowned interior designer whose work has been featured in leading publications including Credit: Karyn R. Millet

House Beautiful, Traditional Home, and Elle Decor?

Mr. Lucas describes his philosophy and style as “classic and cool...East Coast 82

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classic style with an edge.” “Longlasting” is key because Mr. Lucas avoids trends, saying that people are likely to tire of them. “We hint at trends, but would rather pick décor that will last.” Credit: Miguel Flores-Viana

“I got a side job with an interior designer, managing her shop and clients, and was eventually asked, in 2002, to work for Michael Smith, one of the top designers in the country,” says Joe Lucas ’91. “I found that I had a knack for design. I think it was a combination of realizing I always had a love for design and architecture, and then, when I started focusing on it, I found I was good at it. I liked the creativity—building pieces, putting things together, and working on largescale projects with big budgets.” Mr. Lucas worked for Mr. Smith until 2005, at which time he co-founded with his then-business partner the residential interior design firm Lucas Studio, Inc. (He misses acting when he sees a good role on television or in the movies, “but I’m still in a creative field,” he explains.)

The living room of a shore colonial home in Rumson, NJ.

meets West Coast. In the East, you have traditional shapes and styles. In California, there is more indoor/outdoor living, so people gravitate toward white and big spaces. I don’t shy away from color, though, and there’s a mix of textures. You could say it’s a long-lasting

Most of Lucas Studio’s projects involve new homes, but there are occasional redesigns, as well as townhouses and apartments. His design process’s starting point depends on the space, the project, and the client’s wishes…it could be, for example, an architectural detail or the colors in a rug. As part of his method, Mr. Lucas might restore an older piece of furniture if it would blend with the design, and he tries to work with family heirlooms. Antique stores, flea markets, and auctions are among his other sources of materials, plus Mr. Lucas enjoys the convenience of having access to the multi-line design showroom Harbinger, which he founded in

Credit: Karyn R. Millet

Above: The living room of a cliffside home in Laguna Beach, CA. Left: The dining room and kitchen of a professional ice hockey player’s home in Manhattan Beach, CA.

in the space. He was right. Overall, Joe understood that, while I wanted a fresh look, I also wanted to respect some traditions, like our family’s grandfather clock and my mother’s antique dry sink. He pulls together fabrics, colors, and textures in a unique way.”

Credit: Karyn R. Millet

2008 as a second half of the business (he became sole owner of Lucas Studio, Inc. and Harbinger in 2015). Harbinger, whose customers are mostly other designers, sells antiques, furniture, fabric, wallpaper, lighting, and rugs. Throughout the design process, Mr. Lucas encourages his clients to take risks and consider different ways to look at their homes. “I’m impressed that he pulls together so many elements that you wouldn’t think would go together. There are unexpected colors, art objects, woods, and metals. It keeps developing in front of your eyes,” says Sandra Heitzler of Rolling Hills, CA, one of his

first clients. “And he’s fabulous working with contractors—he makes them think outside-the-box. You hear people say, ‘It’s a Joe Lucas type of home,’ and he hasn’t even worked on it!” After seeing his previous projects, Nancy Van Duyne (first cousin of Carl Van Duyne ’64 and niece of Charles Meister ’41) sought Mr. Lucas’ help with her family’s home in Mantoloking. She, too, highlights the “comfort zone” factor. “He encouraged me to take risks I would never have considered. One was a rug he chose for the dining room, which looked blah to me, but he said it would pull together several pieces of furniture

Speaking of unique things, a Pingry experience that continues to resonate with Mr. Lucas and inform his work involved former AP Art History teacher Barbara Berlin P ’80, ’85. She introduced the class to Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater, a house built in the 1930s in rural southwestern Pennsylvania, partly over a waterfall. “The photo came up on the screen and I made an audible ‘yuck’ noise. I thought it was ugly and way too modern, but Mrs. Berlin heard my reaction and told me to keep an open mind, and my attitude changed by the end of the course,” Mr. Lucas recalls. “I developed a whole new appreciation for art and architecture, and Fallingwater is one of my favorite homes. Mrs. Berlin was right—keep an open mind.” Editor’s Note: Mr. Lucas generously hosted Pingry’s Los Angeles Reception at Harbinger in November 2012. SUMMER 2017

Heading to Vail? Let Personal Concierge Mark Dubovy ’92 Do the Legwork A simple, but significant premise guides the work of Mark Dubovy ’92: If people are going to rent a home or condominium for a weeklong vacation, they should have access to the same amenities that a hotel or resort would offer. With his new venture, Mountain Resort Concierge in Vail, Colorado, Mr. Dubovy offers visitors to Vail and Beaver Creek resort communities a variety of custom amenities, all while fulfilling his goals of living and working in the mountains and catering to what he considers an under-served niche in popular online vacation markets, namely AirBNB, Home Away, and VRBO. He describes his company as “lifestyle management,” offering one-stop shopping for vacation needs that range from dining reservations and transportation to ski equipment rentals and groceries. Customers can even arrange for concert tickets, catered dinners, photography, videography, or holiday decorations. Mr. Dubovy’s experience has shown him that travelers, especially those with large families, do not always have time for vacation planning. “It is much easier and more convenient for them to work with one local professional to handle all of their needs and serve as their point person during their trip. It’s a solid investment when you don’t feel like managing all the details.”

So, how did Mr. Dubovy, who has a background in sports/entertainment marketing and worked for companies such as ESPN and Spike TV in New York, decide that he wanted to run a concierge service out West in the mountains? For starters, during his college years in Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration, he spent his summers working at resorts in Lake Tahoe and Vail and knew that he loved the area. Second, he is a skier, biker, and hiker, so the lifestyle is a welcome contrast to a corporate existence and the stress of living in a big city. And there are the people. “There is a greater sense of community here, where everyone is looking out for each other and where the entrepreneurial spirit is alive and growing. Instead of relying on your résumé, most people here work on reputation and relationships, and I think that is a good foundation to build a small business on.” For those who think his business might thrive only in the winter when it snows in Vail—think again! “Vail has grown exponentially over the past few years and has established itself as an international, year-round tourist destination,” Mr. Dubovy says. “The city has invested a lot in a diverse range of seasonal events. Whether it’s the Burton US Open [snowboarding], Taste of Vail [springtime food and wine festival], Bravo! Vail [summertime classical music festival], GoPro Mountain Games [summertime celebration of adventure

sports, art, and music], or Vail Oktoberfest, not to mention amazing hiking, mountain biking, and fishing, Vail has become a haven for sports, culture, entertainment, and epicurean delights.” Interestingly, Mr. Dubovy’s biggest challenge when starting his business was to secure general business liability insurance. “Many companies didn’t want to insure me because personal concierge service is a new field, there’s no official designation for it, and they didn’t understand my business structure. It was a long process to explain that my business is low risk, since I work only with licensed and insured vendors, and to educate them that I operate similarly to a travel agency or personal assistant,” he says. His second-biggest challenge was to find the right business partners to serve as vendors. “I need their personalities and dedication to customer service to match my expectations for exceptional, personal, custom-designed experiences.” One of Mr. Dubovy’s most memorable compliments came from a couple celebrating their 15th wedding anniversary last summer: “According to them, I was able to hit a home run on all of their requests. When you have a satisfied customer like that, that is all you can ask for.”

Vail has become a year-round tourist destination for lovers of outdoor activities, culture, and more.

THE PINGRY REVIEW

Visit Mountain Resort Concierge at mountainresortconcierge.com.

Pingry in Print

On the Way

Just Fly Away

Chris Hoffman ’65 iUniverse

Andrew McCarthy ’80 Algonquin Young Readers

On the Way is Mr. Hoffman’s third book of poetry, featuring poems about nature and spirit and a longer poem about the ancient pilgrimage routes Camino de Santiago. John Brierley, author of Camino Guides, says, “There are not many authors who silence me so that I make the time to dive below the surface of my life to see what mystery lies in the depths.”

An actor, director, and author, Mr. McCarthy has written his first young adult novel, about the discovery of family secrets and written from the perspective of a 15-year-old girl. According to an article in The New York Times, he spent seven years working on a novel about a married man “who had a one-night fling and had a child and spent 25 years keeping it a secret.” Not liking his first attempt, Mr. McCarthy started to write from the point of view of the story’s 15-year-old daughter. The protagonist Lucy becomes angry with her father after learning about a secret half-brother and escapes to Maine. A native of Westfield, NJ, Mr. McCarthy based the book’s setting on his hometown.

Writing poetry is “the calling of my heart to discover and express healing beauty,” Mr. Hoffman says. “I owe a great debt to my Pingry education, and especially to the English Department in the persons of Mr. Moffat, Mr. France, and Dr. Hahn, who nurtured my love of language and literature along the way.” An ecopsychologist, Mr. Hoffman is also the author of Cairns and Realization Point. His poetry has appeared in national publications including Appalachia, The Christian Science Monitor, Spiritus, and Sufi, and in the anthologies The Soul Unearthed and EarthLight: Spiritual Wisdom for an Ecological Age. He has also written The Hoop and the Tree: A Compass for Finding a Deeper Relationship with All Life.

Publishers Weekly says, “McCarthy sensitively explores the difficult process of learning to accept loved ones despite their shortcomings.” His other books include The New York Times bestselling travel memoir The Longest Way Home: One Man’s Quest for the Courage to Settle Down.

Hourglass: Time, Memory, Marriage Dani Shapiro ’80 Knopf The bestselling author of such novels and memoirs as Black + White, Family History, Devotion, Still Writing, and Slow Motion, Ms. Shapiro has delivered a new memoir about the transformation of marriage, to rave reviews. The Boston Globe says that she “has never written anything as raw, dark, or brave.” NPR describes the book as “a clear-eyed inspection of the slow cracks certain to develop in a long marriage.” Bloomberg says it reminds us “that one of the most profound decisions we make is whom we love and whom we choose to continue to love in a lifetime.”

and justice have informed her work at public and private schools and youth-serving organizations. An international speaker, trainer, peacebuilder, and educational consultant on bullying prevention and the improvement of school environments, she coauthored this book with Naomi Drew. It addresses the fact that, even though most students know that bullying is bad, they often don’t know how to effectively prevent it among their peers.

Christa M. Tinari ’92 (Co-Author) Free Spirit Publishing

According to Free Spirit’s website, “Create a Culture of Kindness in Middle School focuses on pro-social attitudes and behaviors that build a respectful and compassionate school climate, while also addressing the tough issues of prejudice, anger, exclusion, and bullying. Based on survey data gathered by the authors from more than 1,000 students, the book’s research-based lessons are easy to implement and developmentally appropriate.” The book includes 30-minute and 10-minute lessons. Educational psychologist, parenting expert, and author Dr. Michele Borba says, “This book is exactly what educators need, now more than ever.”

For nearly 20 years, Ms. Tinari’s passion for education, peace,

Ms. Tinari can be reached at www.peacepraxis.com.

Ms. Shapiro’s work has appeared in The New Yorker, The Oprah Magazine, ELLE, Vogue, and The New York Times, among other publications.

Create a Culture of Kindness in Middle School

SUMMER 2017

Pingry Events

THE PINGRY REVIEW

Pingry Events Vero Beach Reception, hosted by Richard and Lynn Apruzzese Tetrault ’80 [ 1 ] Attendees included Vin Apruzzese P ’76, ’78, ’80, ’85, GP ’06, ’08, Elaine Bell, Jill and Edward Benedict P ’87, David Budd ’66, Elizabeth and Miller Bugliari ’52, P ’86, ’90, ’97, GP ’20, ’24, Anne and Freeman Bunn ’53, P ’78, ’80, ’82, ’83, Martha Chamberlin, Judith Chamberlin, Headmaster Nat Conard P ’09, ’11, Anke and Joe Cornell, Jr. ’58, Barbara and George Donohue P ’83, ’86, ’90, John Davis ’58, Sally Dugan P ’04, ’08, Scott Winn, Holland Sunyak Francisco ’02, Michael and Ted Hauser ’56, P ’86, Stacy and Rob Golding P ’07, ’10, Betty Jacobsen P ’78, Brenda and Bruce Kelsey P ’87, ’89, ’95, GP ’20, ’20, ’20, ’23, ’23, Mary and Donald Macrae P ’75, ’77, ’79, ’82, GP ’15, Oliver Mading ’71, Joan McIlwain P ’77, ’79, ’81, ’85, Judy and Steve Newhouse ’65, P ’95, ’97, ’99, Bob Newhouse P ’64, ’65, GP ’95, ’97, ’99, Caitlin O’Donnell ’05, Mimi and Sean O’Donnell ’75, P ’05, ’10, Karen and Jeff Pfister, Bob Pyle ’56, P ’91, Lauren and Rick Raabe ’75, Art Scutro ’60, Patrick and Kathy (Apruzzese) Sherbrooke ’85, Henry Stifel ’83, Charlotte Stifel P ’83, Barbara and Gordy Sulcer ’61, P ’95, ’01, Kathy and Greg Sullivan, Richard and Lynn Apruzzese Tetrault ’80, Sally and Jim Toffey, Jr. ’48, Sherry and Jim Urner ’57, Pat and Steve Waterbury ’49, P ’82, ’85, and Jane and Chuck Wittmann P ’93.

Boca Raton/Deerfield Beach Reception, hosted by Barbara and Joe Wortley ’60 [ 2 ] Attendees included Paul Barber ’64, Miller Bugliari ’52, P ’86, ’90, ’97, GP ’20, ’24, Kathy and Tom Clingan P ’97, ’03, Headmaster Nat Conard P ’09, ’11, Joan and Jubb Corbet, Jr. ’50, P ’77, ’78, Howard Danzig ’60, Holland Sunyak Francisco ’02, Roz Litvin Gordon ’79, Sue Kinney P ’15, ’18, Bud Kreh ’44, Hank Kreh, Dr. Mike Lewis ’67, Nancy Weingard, Geoff Liddy ’89, Bruce Morrison ’64, Rick Murdoch ’64, Bill Murphy ’69, Wilma Pitman GP ’15, ’18, Fred Szarko ’69, and Barbara and Joe Wortley ’60.

Naples Reception, hosted by Mary Ann and Bill Smith GP ’16, ’18, ’20, ’20, ’20, ’21 [ 3 ] Attendees included Ingrid Brimer and Greg Goggin ’55, Ellie and Bill Buchanan ’55, Elizabeth and Miller Bugliari ’52, P ’86, ’90, ’97, GP ’20, ’24, Headmaster Nat Conard P ’09, ’11, Sandy and Jack Finlayson P ’06, ’09, Holland Sunyak Francisco ’02, Georgia and Hilton Jervey ’57, P ’82, Nancy Knauer, Emily Korth ’21, Theresa Korth P ’16, ’20, ’21, LeeAnne and Richard Lan P ’02, ’07, ’07, ’09, Michelle Napolitano, Midge and Bill Shepard ’64, and Mary Ann and Bill Smith GP ’16, ’18, ’20, ’20, ’20, ’21.

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Pingry History A Brief Early History of John Pingry and the Development of The Pingry School in Elizabeth (Part II) By Joseph Hanaway ’51, MD, CM

Pingry was in economic trouble for several years due to the effects of World War I, and because C. Mitchell Froelicher, the headmaster (1917-1920), had a German name and was falsely accused by citizens in Elizabeth of being a German sympathizer. During his short tenure, he did convince the Board that Pingry should be modernized from a day school to a more progressive Country Day School, following a trend that was changing the mission of many private day schools and aligning them more closely with college preparatory boarding schools (an expansion of supervision and programming during the students’ day, encompassing classes, lunch, athletics, and other extracurricular activities). 88

THE PINGRY REVIEW

Figure 1.

By 1920, Pingry was in an unsustainable situation, with six teachers in the Upper School, five in the Lower School, 76 students enrolled, and only four in the graduating class. When Mr. Froelicher resigned, the Board had to act quickly to reverse the public’s poor opinion of the School. To reverse this decline in enrollment and finances, Pingry appointed Charles Bertram Newton as headmaster (1920 to 1936) because the School knew that his reputation as an educator and administrator would attract parents and boys to the School and change its financial

would be completed by adding dormers on both sides to provide light for the gym. This explains why there are pictures of the gym with dormers (Figure 2) and without dormers (Figure 6 in Part I of this article). A frontal view of the gym and school, Figure 1, also dated 1923, reveals the heating pipe leading to the gym, and a black wooden breezeway from the front door of the school to the gym door. Since the locker rooms and showers in 1923 were still in the basement of the 1896 building, students and visiting teams had to run outside in inclement weather to and from the gym, thus the breezeway.

Figure 2.

status. An advocate of the Country Day School philosophy, Mr. Newton guided Pingry’s transition. The Board and Mr. Newton immediately established priorities to resuscitate the School. One was a need for reincorporation, which happened in 1922, to make the entire campus tax exempt (the 1891 incorporation of the School had allowed for taxation of the athletics field, an unnecessary annual debt). For the other priorities, campus needs were published in a brochure that was distributed in 1920, outlining that Pingry needed a separate, multipurpose gym building; a doubling of the size of the heating plant for two buildings; an extension of the athletics field another 110 feet to the north by purchasing two adjacent vacant lots; and the paving of Union Avenue bordering the Pingry property, which was a dirt road when this brochure was published. The estimated cost of all this work was $35,000.

the original 1893 school. This newest structure would be used for basketball on the main floor and, in the basement, a pool for a swim team, team lockers, and showers. It would also be used for daily chapel, guest speakers, school dances, drama club presentations, glee club concerts, and pep rallies, to name a few activities. Figure 2 is a 1923 picture of the west side of the finished building. Note the dormers on the roof for afternoon light, the ground-level windows to the pool, and, most important, Union Avenue and Parker Road are paved (the gym’s façade looks pristine compared with its ivy-covered walls 20 years later, seen in Figure 12). The basic structure was originally built with the idea that it

Figure 3 is a rare view of the east side of the gym, dated 1923, just after it was finished. Note there are only two dormers on this side while there are five on the west side. The explanation is simple: Because the gym was rarely used in the morning, the extra light was not needed, whereas, in the afternoon, sunlight was critical. The ground-level windows are for the two main locker rooms. On the east side of the building was a little structure that provided space for the Athletics Department: on the far left, a small office for Athletics Director and coach Reese Williams P ’55 and an outer room for other coaches and meetings with team captains; on the right, a storage room for uniforms and equipment. Passage through this structure was required in order to reach the gym or to go downstairs to the locker rooms and pool. Figure 3.

b MULTIPURPOSE GYM BUILDING The main feature of the 1920 plan was a separate, multipurpose gym building— the most ambitious development at Parker Road since the 1896 expansion of SUMMER 2017

The constant moisture gradually warped the gym floor and basketball court, making it uneven in places. It was one of the quirks of the Pingry athletics environment.

DINING ROOM EXTENSION The final phase of the 1920 building plan, which occurred in 1927, was in two parts. For the first, the existing small dining room on the north side of the 1893 building had to be doubled in size to accommodate the growing Middle and Upper Schools. Figure 4.

A rare photo of the gym, perhaps not seen in print in about 90 years, Figure 4 was probably taken in 1922, inside the gym building before the dormers were added outside and the basketball facilities inside. There were to be two basketball backstops along each side, and one at each end (not yet installed). The backstop at the stage end was large and, because it partially blocked the stage, it was raised and lowered by a pulley system (also not yet installed). Note the shallow stage commonly found in high schools of that era, the heavy brown curtain (that all remember) had not been hung yet, and the American flag on the back wall, with only 48 stars. The lines that would be painted on the gym floor for basketball had not been applied. Figure 5.

(As part of gym lore, one small problem was the student seating. Every day, clusters of collapsible chairs had to be set up for morning chapel and taken down for athletics by a devoted team of about 10 student volunteers who lived nearby and could get to school at 7:30 or 8:00 a.m. before chapel. By 1950, the job involved nearly 400 seats.) To complete the gym project in 1924, an additional $9,000 was solicited from alumni and friends to construct a pool (Figure 5) for a swim team, which was located in the basement under the west half of the basketball court above. The four-lane design for the pool, small by todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s standards and small compared to pools in many other schools at the time, was probably the result of limited space and funds and a limited interest in water sports at the time. The ceiling over the pool, never properly finished, exposed the poolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dampness to the rafters and gym floor above.

Figure 6.

Figure 6, another exterior view of the School, taken in 1927, shows an early construction wall for the dining room addition, extending north off the 1893 building. The presence of the breezeway, painted white after four years, is peculiar because the lockers and showers had been moved to the basement of the gym building by this time. Figure 7 shows the Middle School at lunch in the finished dining room addition. The distinct row of windows in the north wall can be used to date pictures of the School taken before and after 1927. The kitchen below was expanded and modernized and connected above, by dumbwaiter, to a stainless serving

THE PINGRY REVIEW

b HARRIET BUDD ROOM The second part of the 1927 expansion was a welcomed, single reception room for the School, extending north of the building between the dining room and the Middle School (Figure 9). It was named the Harriet Budd Room in honor of Miss Harriet Budd, an extraordinary teacher in Pingry’s Lower School from 1902 to 1937. (A post-Victorian lady who adhered to old-fashioned, but sound, ideals, Miss Budd taught young men the fundamentals of English grammar, but, more important, the values that are attributes of a gentleman: personal dignity, honesty, and respect for her and others.) Figure 7.

console (far right) where the Middle School waiters picked up the plates for their tables and delivered them at the end of the meal. (Grade 7 and 8 students, on rotation, waited on tables for the Middle and Upper School; before lunch began, the headmaster said Grace to provide a moment of reflection for the students. To the irreverent, indifferent, and ruminant mob sitting restrained at the tables, the conclusion of Grace was an ecclesiastical starting gun to eat.) The second floor of the dining room addition was a large room for the Middle School at that time and two

additional classrooms on the north side. In 1937, due to increasing enrollment in the Middle and Upper Schools, the Lower School moved from the large assembly room of the original 1896 building to a house on Westminster Avenue, and the Middle School moved down into the vacated room, where it remained for decades. In 1937, the void above the dining room became the long-awaited school library (Figure 8). Books were collected from all over the school to form a nidus that a trained librarian, Mrs. Francis West, who had a limited budget, cleverly expanded into a serious reference resource for the school.

Unlike the dreary interior of the rest of the school, this room was cheerful and bright. The floral curtains and white walls and ceiling provided the School with a needed, pleasant room for events such as small receptions, mothers’ teas, post-game parties, Board receptions, and club meetings. Over the mantle of the fireplace, a plaque with Dr. Pingry’s favorite Scripture, Proverbs 9:10, “The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Wisdom,” was a focal point. Under the mantle, the dedication to Harriet Budd reminded visitors about the great teacher. Figure 8.

WINTER 2016-17

Figure 9.

Note the fully-rigged schooner model (any large sailing ship with fore and aft sails and two or more masts) on the mantle—probably used by Headmaster Laurence Springer for his Navigation Club—and the bust of an early, unidentified statesman in the corner. (The consensus is either Jefferson or Washington.) When the Lower School (Grades 1-5) moved out in 1937, Grade 6 remained as part of the Middle School and occupied this room until the early afternoon when students were dismissed and the room was used for club meetings and band practice.

b ATHLETICS FIELD This photo of the athletics field that most Parker Road alumni will remember (Figure 10) was taken between 1923 and 1927, before the dining room expansion (the windows on the building’s north side are not the ones seen in Figure 7). Note the lines on the field for football and soccer, the cinder track cutting across the end zones, the small stands on the Pingry side, and smaller ones on the opponent’s side. The old wooden fence that made “The Pingry Oval” and the fence extension on the east side (seen in Figure 9 of Part I of this article) are gone. As much as the author can determine, home plate for baseball was moved to 92

THE PINGRY REVIEW

the southeast corner of the field circa the mid-1930s. In the name of public relations, Mr. Springer may have done this for the sake of the houses along Westminster Avenue, whose properties bordered the Pingry field. After years of being bombarded by baseballs and putting up with the ugly fence extension, it was time for a change. Now, the ball was hit toward Union Avenue. A ball hit over the fence onto the road was a double, and a ball hit across the road onto someone’s front yard was a home run (another quirk of the Pingry athletics experience, along with the warped basketball floor). Sadly, the field was never extended as planned in 1920 because, by the time the funds were available, the properties north of the field were sold. Nevertheless, another Pingry athletics quirk was the soggy football field—it was the School’s most important home advantage dur-

ing the fall, and Coach Williams took full advantage of it. After a few weeks of full-dress practice and a little rain now and then, the undrained field was mud and crushed grass between the 30-yard lines. Opponents dreaded the Pingry field, which we were used to. At least one championship game was won in the rain—the opposing coach wanted to postpone the game, but Coach Williams refused, knowing his advantage. We won the 1950 “game in the rain” and a state championship with the help of the field. Soccer was introduced to Pingry in 1928. Practice was held at the north end of the field, and the games were played on the football field. After 1946, soccer practice took place on the nearby reservoir field (purchased from the City of Elizabeth). Figure 10.

Irvington Avenue reservoir sight, and, finally, on North Avenue in Hillside. The Parker Road school finally closed in 1953, and the new 30-acre campus in Hillside welcomed Pingry into a new era.

Figure 11.

The 1/6-mile track was black cinders (a coal by-product) that covered most tracks in the country. It was cheap and was easy to run on with spiked shoes. The field events—high jump, broad jump (“long jump” today), pole vault, discus, and shot put—were practiced and held on the northern 50 feet of the athletics grounds.

b HARRIET BUDD HALL (LOWER SCHOOL) Planning ahead for increased enrollment in the Middle and Upper Schools, in 1937 the Board purchased a large house at 586 Westminster Avenue for the Lower School (Figure 11). The assembly room for chapel, music class, and air raid drills was in the basement. Grades 1 and 2 were on the first floor, and Grades 3 to 5 and the library were on the second floor. The attic was for art classes. At noon, Grades 1 and 2 were dismissed, and Grades 3 to 5 walked on the athletics field to the big building for lunch with the Middle School. Physical education was held on the field or in the gym in the mornings.

FINAL YEARS AT PARKER ROAD By 1940, our ancient, wooden, hobgoblin hall (Figure 12) was showing its age and raised concerns that plans for a new facility had to be considered. It was costing more and more to keep the building open. The roof, walls, wiring, plumbing, and heating plant needed high maintenance and constant attention. Thinking ahead, Pingry had purchased the Irvington Avenue reservoir property from the City of Elizabeth in 1936 to expand the athletics facilities. In a rather complex series of events, plans were made to build a bigger school on the Parker Road property, then on the Figure 12.

Throughout the 60 years at Parker Road and in times of serious economic stress, the educational mission of Pingry was never forgotten. By the 1940s, the Parker Road building was a dilapidated, condemned structure that housed the finest group of educators who could be found in a day school. The mission to graduate young men who went out into the world with self-confidence, moral integrity, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to service was accomplished. Searching for a description of the state of The Pingry School now, the author can think of no more appropriate words than the title of the uplifting hymn from Salt Lake City, “All is Well.” Notes: Written by William Clayton on his journey to Salt Lake City in 1846, “All is Well” reached international audiences in the widescreen, three-camera production of scenes of America in This is Cinerama (1952), which the author saw in New York. In a wide-angle sequence flying over fields of waving wheat in our heartland, the strains of “All is Well” as background music told us all how good our lives were in 1952 after the titanic calamity of World War II that devastated the world around us. Regarding Figure 9 in Part I of this article, Pingry defeated Battin High 13-2. I want to acknowledge the help of the following: Miller Bugliari ’52 and Stacy Schuessler, who searched for and supplied photos; Bobby Kirkland ’48; Frank “Moo” Mountcastle (honorary Pingry graduate of 1951); Dr. William P. Burks ’51; Robin Porter ’51; Bob Popper ’61; and our editor and literary sleuth, Greg Waxberg ’96.

The Pingry Review would like to hear from alumni with your first-person memories of Pingry’s past—especially from Parker Road or Hillside—such as memories of teachers or events. If you would like to contribute, please contact Greg Waxberg ’96 at gwaxberg@pingry.org or 908-647-5555, ext. 1296.

SUMMER 2017

Ask the Archivist

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Band in the Gym, 1940s If you recognize any of the musicians in this picture, please contact Greg Waxberg ’96 at gwaxberg@pingry.org or 908-647-5555, ext. 1296. Thank you to Jack Fischel ’47, Bill Hillbrant ’48, John Thomas ’48, P ’88, GP ’13, ’15, Jim Toffey ’48, John Wallace ’50, and Dr. Franklin Bunn ’53 for their responses to the “Chess Matches” photo that appeared in the Winter 2016-17 issue. It was most likely taken in 1947. 1. George Wendell ’47 2. Paul Priest ’48 3. Sefton Stallard ’47 4. Edward Wallace ’47 5. Wade Townley ’47 6. Vic Siegel ’47 7. Hank van Ameringen ’48 8. Bob Schutz ’48 9. Teacher George Dimock

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In addition, Robby Robinson ’61 notified us that Mr. Dimock was his grandfather —Mr. Robinson’s father William married Mr. Dimock’s daughter.

Class Notes Share all your news!

Submit your Class Note at pingry.org/classnotes, or mail it to Holland Sunyak Francisco ‘02, Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving, The Pingry School, 131 Martinsville Road, Basking Ridge, NJ 07920.

Credit: Laurence Kesterson

David Gelber ’59 at Swarthmore College’s Commencement Ceremony.

Bud Kreh ’44 and Miller Bugliari ’52, P ’86, ’90, ’97, GP ’20, ’24 in Florida in March.

1947

1959

DR. RICHARD L. CRUESS and his wife Dr. Sylvia Cruess were honored on June 8 for their “outstanding contributions to the advancement of patient care, teaching, and research” at McGill University Health Centre in Montreal. An orthopedic surgeon and researcher, he is Professor of Orthopedic Surgery and a Core Member of the university’s Centre for Medical Education. This is the most recent of many honors that he has received during his career.

DAVID GELBER, an award-winning producer and the managing director and co-founder of Roaring Fork Films, received an honorary degree from Swarthmore College on May 21. Among his accomplishments that were cited by Swarthmore: an executive producer of Years of Living Dangerously, an Emmy-winning documentary series on climate change that features experts and celebrities who help break down complicated scientific concepts into an entertain-

Guy Leedom ’54 and his wife Caren with Elizabeth and Miller Bugliari ’52, P ’86, ’90, ’97, GP ’20, ’24.

ing and understandable graspable message for viewers; recipient of a Peabody Award, two DuPont Awards, and eight additional Emmy Awards; nearly three decades at CBS News, mostly as Ed Bradley’s producer at 60 Minutes; and executive producer of Peter Jennings Reporting at ABC News. David has also remained involved with Swarthmore, including serving on the Board of Managers from 2004 to 2016. In 2005, he suggested the idea for and helped found War News Radio (WNR), the independent, award-winning journalism project of Swarthmore students devoted to putting a human face on the long-term causes and consequences of conflict; he based WNR on his experience with Pacifica Radio in the 1960s during the anti-Vietnam War movement.

1961 DAVE ROGERS gave a talk entitled “Singer Stitches” at the April

luncheon of the Westfield Historical Society. A brief history of sewing, sewing machines, Isaac Singer, The Singer Co., and products included anecdotes of his 25-year tenure. A selection of related artifacts was on display. A graduate of Newark College of Engineering, Dave is well-acquainted with The Singer Co.’s worldwide operations through his foreign residency with the company and his numerous positions that ranged from entry-level engineering to Vice President of Marketing.

1964 LESLIE BUCK is retired and lives with his wife of 21 years in San Diego and Las Vegas. He plays actively on the USTA senior tennis tour. In 2016, he was ranked #1 in the U.S. for the 70s age division. He was also captain of the USTA’s fourman national team (70s division), which, last October in Croatia, competed against teams from 26

Leslie Buck ’64, second from right, captain of the USTA’s four-man national team. SUMMER 2017

other countries. Les earned the bronze medal in the world singles competition and the silver medal in the world doubles competition.

1965

CHRIS HOFFMAN published his third book of poetry; read more on page 85 and visit www.hoopandtree.org. He writes, “After a career in applied group psychology (organization development), I now devote most of my time to poetry and to volunteer work related to keeping a livable climate (www.citizensclimatelobby.org).”

1967 DES O’CALLAGHAN writes, “I was so happy to attend our 50th Reunion. It is a cliché to say the years just melted away, but they did. What a wonderful collection of classmates, and how good it was to refresh friendships forged 50

and more years ago. Pingry memories have never felt better.” PETER KURZ writes, “Most likely, those of us who attended the Class of 1967’s 50th Reunion on May 19-20 did not know precisely what to expect. Many had attended previous Reunions, but, after all, a 50th is special. As it turned out, the event kicked off with exemplary hospitality at Friday morning’s breakfast, which featured the debut of outstanding fare that was to continue on offer throughout the two-day event. Mediocre food and drink are neither here nor there, but first-rate catering does not go unnoticed, and, unsurprisingly, it became obvious that logistics had also been finely honed, and the order of events rigorously rehearsed for this year’s Reunion. It goes without saying that the organizers behind the scenes and those on the ground, not to mention the class’s organizing committee, earned our praise and gratitude for setting the stage on which a memorable event could play out. It was all very professional indeed. Besides the anticipation of meeting old friends and classmates, some of them not encountered for many years, what is it that draws us to Reunions and finally tilts the balance in favor of committing the time and resources necessary to attend one? In my opinion, it is the realization that Pingry, the School itself, is a guiding force in our lives and has remained so more than ever since we graduated into the adult portion of our lives. Socrates attracted the privileged youth of Athens and began asking them

Jim Kowalski ’66, Dr. Mike Biunno ’80, Ernie Moody ’66, Dr. Bill LaCorte ’66, and Miller Bugliari ’52, P ’86, ’90, ’97, GP ’20, ’24 at Jazz Fest in New Orleans. 96

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serious questions about politics, morality, and, above all, truth. The boys teased him, but absorbed what he had to say and returned for more. When Socrates was sentenced to death and disdained the chance to slip away to freedom because he believed in the law, they sat by him as he died and wept. Afterward, Plato, one of those young men, set up his Academy in a grove west of the city. Perhaps realizing, correctly as it turned out, that there would never be another Socrates, Plato thought that his school should provide future generations the opportunity to study and learn as Socrates’ students had, so that they might absorb his famous dictum, ‘The unexamined life is not worth living.’ We rejoice when we meet former classmates and teachers, not only because our time at our own academy has made us brothers; it has taught us, as Wordsworth said, that the best things in life result ‘from feelings of unremembered pleasure: such, perhaps, as have no slight or trivial influence on that best portion of a good man’s life, his little, nameless, unremembered acts of kindness and of love.’ We rejoice because, in the span of a few years, we discovered that, while friends cannot live forever, friendship can. We shall cling to the joy inherent in this truth over the course of the days that remain to us; we hope to return to Pingry time and again, and we long to bequeath a like experience to our children’s children. May they, grandsons and granddaughters, be so fortunate as to attend Pingry, or any such academy like it, wherever it may be.” CARLOS MONROY writes, “My wife Amparo and I were really delighted with this visit [for Reunion Weekend]. In fact, we arrived from Spain two days before the Reunion, and that gave us the opportunity of doing some things around Pingry, meeting some School officials, and getting acquainted with Luis, the AFS student for this year. Since I was an AFS student (only half a century earlier), Luis and I had many experiences to share. Isn’t it a great coincidence that Luis and I happen to come from the same place... Madrid? My wife and I found it wonderful that, over all these years, The Pingry School has been very

generous, inviting foreign students from many countries to benefit from the Pingry education. When the Reunion started on Friday, May 19, with a delicious breakfast and when classmates started to arrive, it was a most pleasant surprise to meet again friends whom I hadn’t seen in a very long time, most of them in 50 years. And it was really curious to observe how little they had changed, not physically of course, but in their personalities: their sense of humor, their friendliness, their common expressions, or their body language. Now Pingry is coed. It wasn’t then, and it’s wonderful to see the positive aspects of this important transformation. We were able to speak to the students in the session devoted to pen pals, and the impression that my wife and I got was that the students were very much at ease and glad to be able to ask questions and receive comments from the alumni. A really charming experience! The visit to the old school, the Hillside Campus, was also something unforgettable—for one thing, because the guide was a very special person, Miller Bugliari ’52. Is there anything that my soccer coach cannot do? Here is where my wife really got acquainted with my year at Pingry. It is so good that so many things on this campus have been preserved, and they still look the same! Again, Miller was the star during the inauguration and dedication in his name of the fabulous athletics center. It was most touching to listen to him, and to his wife and friends during this event. Many of us stayed during the class Reunion in a nearby hotel, and our gatherings would still continue late in the evening. It is as if all we wanted [was] to extend further these pleasant moments, not knowing when we would be able to meet again. These are only a few of the many impressions that I got and that I have brought back home. With them, it feels that Pingry is not a faraway school in a distant country which I enjoyed 50 years ago, but rather a place where I feel very much at home.” DR. AARON WELT P ’06 received Pingry’s Nelson L. Carr ’24 Service Award at Reunion. Read more on page 74.

1970 PETER P. BLANCHARD III, cofounder with his wife Sofia of Greenwood Gardens in Short Hills, received the 2017 Place Keeper Award from the Foundation for Landscape Studies in New York City in recognition of converting Greenwood Gardens into a public garden. The foundation’s website defines a “place keeper” as a land steward who possesses the sensitivity and management abilities needed to make an existing, publicly accessible landscape flourish.

1972 DR. JOSEPH COSTABILE writes, “Sorry I couldn’t attend our Class’s 45th Reunion. It was a drill weekend at my Navy Reserve Center, and I was covering the medical clinic. Hope you had a great Reunion.” DR. STEVE NAUGHTON writes, “Difficult to describe in words the emotions I experienced during

Reunion Weekend. Reconnecting with classmates, some I hadn’t seen in 45 years—priceless! Another fantastic Hillside Campus tour led by Miller Bugliari ’52, followed by a three-and-a-half-hour dinner with football teammates that seemed to last five minutes. The following day brought a tour of the current campus, a great lunch, an incredible dedication ceremony for Miller, and jointlyheld class parties in the evening. The older I get, the more meaningful these experiences become.”

1973 RICHARD KURTZ, a painter whose playful style combines pictorial characters with hand-written aphorisms, is relocating from Santa Fe to southern California. He was profiled in the April/May issue of THE Magazine, which covers arts and culture in Santa Fe, and will have a one-man show at Belote’s Studio 354 in Oakland, CA this October.

Share your memories To commemorate four decades since the first women graduated from Pingry, we would like to include in the Fall 2017 issue a variety of memories, anecdotes, and experiences from women who attended the School. We invite you to include your voice and share a few of your school memories—no need to whitewash, since we realize that the transition to co-education is not always a smooth one. You might consider the following questions as you reflect—but feel free to share along other lines: What were the circumstances that brought you to Pingry? How would you describe Pingry’s adaptation to a coed student body during your years as a student? What was a memorable school event/activity for you, perhaps one that specifically pertained to female students, or in which female students played a significant role? How would you describe your connection with faculty, administrators, and peers? If you are interested in sharing a memory, please submit it to Editor Greg Waxberg ’96 by August 31: gwaxberg@pingry.org or 131 Martinsville Road, Basking Ridge, NJ 07920.

Credit: Clayton Porter

Richard Kurtz ’73 in his studio. Dr. Steve Naughton ’72, Jack Van Wagner ’72, Greg Hewett ’72, John Maher ’72, Eric Fowler ’72, and Dr. Bobby Cunningham ’72, P ’22.

David Zenker ’72, 1971-72 AFS student Heikki Hurri ’72 from Finland, and Miller Bugliari ’52, P ’86, ’90, ’97, GP ’20, ’24 at Miller’s home.

Miller Bugliari ’52, P ’86, ’90, ’97, GP ’20, ’24, Rick Raabe, Jr. ’75, and Rad Lovett II ’78 met up in Jacksonville. SUMMER 2017

1977

Members of the Class of 1977 got together at the home of CHIP CARVER, JR. ’77 and ANNE DELANEY ’79, P ’09, ’11 ’14 ’14 on Friday night of Reunion Weekend.

1984 JOANNE STEINHARDT P ‘15 was featured in Pingry’s Hostetter Arts Center Gallery in May. Read more on page 78.

1989 DR. TINA ROSENBLUM and her husband Jay Jennings welcomed Matthew Ronen Jennings on March 7. Matthew is also the grandson of Arlene and Peter Rosenblum P ’89; Mrs. Rosenblum was the Lower School’s art teacher from 1986 to 2008. MICHAEL BALOG is pictured with his children who participated in the pre-game ceremony for the AS Roma vs. Napoli game on March 4.

Anne DeLaney ’79, Chip Carver, Jr. ’77, Grant Smith, Jr. ’77, P ’19, ’22, ’28, Rob Mcllwain, Jr. ’77, Catharine and Jeff Miller ’77, and Kip Haselton ’77, P ’12.

1979 DR. ROB KING P ’07, ’12 and his daughter Meredith are hiking the Appalachian Trail northbound from Springer Mountain, GA to Mount Katahdin, ME. They left Georgia on February 16 and were approaching Natural Bridge, VA as of mid-April. They spent a night at Woods Hole Hostel in Pearisburg, VA, trying to avoid the last spring snow and a frigid night, where they met Jamie Marsden ’02. She is hiking the trail southbound, left Katahdin last July, and hiked until December. She rejoined the trail this spring and had about 600 miles to go. The King family’s blog is meredithandrobbyhiketheat. wordpress.com.

Grant Smith, Jr. ’77, P ’19, ’22, ’28, Ted Daeschler ’77, and Ray Conte ’77.

1980

1983

ANDREW MCCARTHY has published his first young adult novel. Read more on page 85.

HENRY STIFEL received Pingry’s Letter-in-Life Award at Commencement. Read more on page 80.

DANI SHAPIRO has published a new memoir. Read more on page 85.

Dr. Rob King ’79, P ’07, ’12 and his daughter Meredith. 98

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1990 SCOTT LOIKITS AIA, a practicing architect for over 20 years, has reconnected with Pingry through Reunion and Career Day. In a desire to give back to the School, Scott is working with Pingry—specifically, Peter Delman P ’97, ’98— on a holistic approach to a green campus design plan. Scott shared the design plan’s two major goals: “to institutionalize sustainability and to help students connect with nature in big and small ways… Sustainability is increasingly integral to the way people live today, so any attempt to solidify our connection to it is a worthwhile effort.”

1991 SCOTT BEVILL, who played for the Boys’ Varsity Lacrosse Team in 1990 and 1991, was part of a

Jimmy Gensch ’83, P ’13, Miller Bugliari ’52, P ’86, ’90, ’97, GP ’20, ’24, Sander Friedman ’83, and Dr. Mark McLaughlin ’83 at the Tewksbury Inn in January.

Peter Rosenblum, former Lower School art teacher Arlene Rosenblum (Parents ’89), Dr. Tina Rosenblum ’89, Matthew Ronen Jennings, and Jay Jennings.

celebratory event at the University of Vermont (UVM) in April: UVM’s men’s lacrosse program celebrated 40 years of varsity status by announcing their 40th Anniversary All-Time Team. Scott, a goalie for the UVM Catamounts, was team MVP his junior and senior years. He earned North Atlantic AllConference Honors in 1992, 1993, and 1995. In 1994, he had a 7.99 goals against average as the team achieved the highest national ranking of any UVM lacrosse team. ADAM GARDNER received Pingry’s Achievement in the Arts Award in May. Read more on page 77. JOE LUCAS is a nationallyrenowned interior designer, based in California. Read more on page 82.

1992 MARK DUBOVY is providing personal concierge service to vacationers in Vail, CO. Read more on page 84.

Stefany Wolfe ’91, Thomas Fennell ’90, Diane Giangreco ’09, James McArdle ’92, Caroline Zee ’12, Marissa von Nessi ’12, Himardri Guha ’93, then-Drama Department Chair Al Romano, Rebecca Youngdahl ’11, Lindsay Tasher ’96, and Frank Morano ’97.

A group of alumni attended Opening Night of Smokefall, this spring’s Drama IV Play and Al Romano’s final production for Pingry. Mr. Romano retired at the end of the school year, and a tribute will appear in the fall issue.

CHRISTA TINARI is co-author of a new book about building character in middle school students. Read more on page 85. She welcomes the opportunity to partner with Pingry alumni who are interested in bringing bullying prevention and social-emotional skills training to their school or workplace.

1993 BRAD BONNER P ’20, ’23, ’25 is Assistant Coach of the New Jersey Colonials, which won the MAWHA (Mid-Atlantic Women’s Hockey

Brad Bonner ’93, P ’20, ’23, ’25, second from the left in the back row, with the championship New Jersey Colonials. The team includes Elizabeth Bonner ’23 and Cece Korn ’23.

Association) 2017 U12 Tier I District Ice Hockey Championship in February. The team includes Brad’s and Alex’s daughter Elizabeth ’23 and Cece Korn ’23, daughter of Kara and Chip Korn ’89. TIFFANY (SHENMAN) VOLZE writes, “My husband Fred and I are

thrilled to announce the arrival of our newborn son Anthony Frederick Volze, who joined our family on March 5 in Hoboken, NJ. Big sister Holly is so happy that ‘her baby’ is finally here! We are soaking up every minute of what is the happiest time of our lives.”

1997

Mara (Baydin) Kanner ’91, Spencer Tullo ’91, Cort Corbin ’91, Adam Gardner ’91, Gina Stanziola Mackenzie ’91, and Woody Weldon ’91, P ’23.

JENNIFER NEFF KASANOF was honored by CASA SHaW (Court Appointed Special Advocates of Somerset, Hunterdon, and Warren Counties) in May for contributing significantly to the wellbeing of vulnerable children in the community. She was on the Board of CASA SHaW from 2012 to 2014 and remains active in the organization. SUMMER 2017

1998 ANDREW GRUEL, Co-Founder and Executive Chef of the California-based seafood chain Slapfish, was named to “The Power List 2017,” published by Nation’s Restaurant News (NRN)—its fourth annual list of the most powerful people in the food service industry. Slapfish won NRN’s MenuMasters Trendsetter Award in 2016 for its efforts to make sustainable seafood affordable.

where I concentrate my practice in a variety of areas including insurance services, general liability, premises liability, liquor liability, negligent security, construction site accidents, construction defect, and wrongful death.”

2003 Cameron McLean, Marshall McLean, Jr., and new arrival Carter McLean.

KIM (BARBIERI) MCLEAN and MARSHALL MCLEAN welcomed Carter Penelope McLean, who weighed 7 pounds, 3 ounces. Carter is already well-loved by members of the Pingry community, with Lauren (Gruel) Diemar ’96 and Thomas Diemar ’96 serving as godparents along with Andrew Leonard ’98!

2000 REBECCA MOZO co-starred in Tennessee Williams’ Cat on a Hot Tin Roof with Antaeus Theatre Company in Glendale, CA this spring (she has been involved with Antaeus since 2005, officially becoming a member in 2007). She has performed in theatres throughout Los Angeles as well as on the East Coast; appeared on several television programs, including Modern Family; and is narrator of several audio books, including The Vampire Diaries.

2002 JESSICA (SARACENO) CARROLL writes, “My husband Brendan and I welcomed our son Parker William Carroll on June 26, 2016. He was born in Cape May, NJ. We live in Basking Ridge, just down the street from Pingry. My husband is an attorney at Connell Foley in Roseland. I just joined O’Toole Scrivo in Cedar Grove and was named Of Counsel 100

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TRACY DUNGO PORGES was profiled in the Adidas.com blog “All Day” about her company Kalaki Riot, which sells handcrafted jewelry. According to her website, Tracy wanted to create a global lifestyle brand that promotes finding balance in the things people own and in their lives. “Kalaki” is the Hawaiian name for Tracy, and Riot “represents the disruptive fusion of ‘city’ and ‘island,’ a brilliant display and wild disorder of two worlds that aren’t normally placed together.”

’19, ’21, this program allows Upper School students with a demonstrated interest in science to take a closer look at the process of science and hear about cutting-edge research from Pingry alumni who are in science. Having earned a B.S. and minored in Art History at the University of Notre Dame, Brooke is a Ph.D. student at The Rockefeller University in New York City, studying in the Smogorzewska Laboratory (Dr. Agata Smogorzewska is Associate Professor of Genome Maintenance). Brooke met with Form III Honors Biology students in April and will return to Pingry annually to update them on her research. In her remarks to the freshmen, she spoke about how

being a member of the S.M.A.R.T. Team gave her an early introduction to protein function and learning how biology works on a molecular level. “Pingry’s research program was in its early years, and it’s amazing how far the program has come,” she said. “Then, the research programs at Notre Dame made me want to pursue a Ph.D. At Rockefeller, I’m studying DNA damage, repair, and replication, and they have an amazing modern art collection that ties to my interest in art history.”

2010 MATTEO VALENTE, Pingry’s 2009-10 AFS Student, graduated from the University of Bologna’s medical school on June 12.

2004 JEFF RAMIREZ and his company Denizens Brewing Co. were featured in April in an article on the website BYT (brightestyoungthings.com). Part of BYT’s “Freshly Tapped” series that spotlights a recently-released beer, the article focuses on Denizens’s “Backyard Boogie.” The company is located in Silver Spring, MD.

Dinner in New York City. Back row: Katie Parsels ’09, Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving Holland Sunyak Francisco ’02, Conor Starr ’09, and Andrew Babbitt ’09. Front row: Leslie Springmeyer ’08, Miller Bugliari ’52, P ’86, ’90, ’97, GP ’20, ’24, Cory Babcock ’09, and Eric Hynes ’08.

2007 DR. AMANDA KING gave a keynote speech at Pingry’s Annual Research Exhibit. Read more on page 56.

2009 BROOKE CONTI is the recipient of the Headmaster’s Researcher Fellowship for the Class of 2020. Coordinated by Upper School biology teacher Deirdre O’Mara P ’17,

Jen Lang’s bachelorette party in Charleston, SC: Darragh Egan ’09, Katie Salvaggio ’09, Jen Lang ’09, Hillary Densen ’09, and Katie Parsels ’09.

2011 NIC FINK placed second to Olympian Josh Prenot in the 200meter breaststroke in first finals session of the 2017 Arena Pro Swim Series meet in Indianapolis in March. There were four finals heats for each event (A, B, C, and D). STEVE PALAZZOLO was elected to the Atlantic Coast Collegiate Hockey League Hall of Fame, Class of 2017. He was a major contributor to Georgetown University’s three consecutive league championships in 2012, 2013, and 2014. Boys’ Varsity Ice Hockey Head Coach Emeritus John Magadini comments, “Steve was a huge factor in us winning our [2011] Skyland Conference Championship and was the MVP of that event.”

2012 On behalf of the 5th Year Reunion Co-Chairs, we would like to thank everyone in the Class of 2012 who attended our Reunion this year! It was great catching up with everyone, and it was especially awesome that we got to celebrate in the newly-dedicated Miller A. Bugliari ’52 Athletics Center! Our 10th Year Reunion will be here before we know it! Until then, we wish everyone all the best! Connor, Marisa, Matt, and Rebecca

2013 STEPHEN RIENZI, who graduated from Stevens Institute of Technology with a B.S. and M.S. in Information Systems, was a member of the “Stevens Making Cents” team of business majors who cre-

ated and ran financial literacy workshops while preparing a template for nationwide use. According to an article on Stevens’s website, the seniors conducted nearly 100 interviews with high school students, parents, and teachers to identify weak points in financial literacy for college-bound students—one of Stephen’s interviewees was Pingry’s Woody Garavente, “a financial literacy teacher who was incredibly kind, supportive, and resourceful as this project was just getting on its feet and developing the financial literacy workshops.” Rather than delivering lectures, the Making Cents team devised quizzes, games, and other materials to engage students and foster interaction. The financial literacy program at Stevens is partnering with Beta Gamma Sigma, an international honors society for business students of which Stephen is a member, to expand the program nationwide. Stephen also received The Clifford Kirmss Award, presented to “the fencers who’ve given the most to the fencing program over their four years.” It is given to up to one senior fencer each year, eligible only if the student spent four full seasons on the team.

Jamie Smith ’15, Coach John Magadini, and Eric Rogers ’14.

Boys’ Varsity Ice Hockey Head Coach Emeritus John Magadini traveled to Amherst in late April with the parents of Jamie Smith ’15 to watch Amherst College play lacrosse against Middlebury College in the first round of the NESCAC playoffs. Middlebury prevailed by one goal in an exciting game. Unfortunately, Jamie ’15 was not playing due to an injury. Jamie and Eric Rogers ’14 are from Tewksbury, were hockey and lacrosse captains at Pingry, are starting defensemen for their respective NESCAC schools, and are great friends. Not pictured, but a huge offensive contributor for Amherst lacrosse, is Chris Albanese ’12 (a senior in 2016-17, Chris had taken a post-graduate year after leaving Pingry). When he saw this photo, Coach Magadini wondered, “Who is the dwarf in the middle?” Taiko did an excellent job, making this one of the smoothest and best ECTCs to date.”

2015

2014 DEREK HONG is pictured at the 2017 East Coast Taiko Conference (ECTC) at Brown University. He is a member of the university’s Japanese drumming group, Gendo Taiko, which organized and ran the conference that hosted about 250 taiko players from around the world. According to Upper School math teacher and taiko drummer Chris Leone, who attended the

Members of the Class of 2014 met up with Coach Bugliari at Girasole in Bound Brook, NJ. Front row: Julian Greer ’14, Miller Bugliari ’52, P ’86, ’90, ’97, GP ’20, ’24, Max Helfman ’14, and Rahul Nair ’14. Back row: Reeve Carver ’14, George Zachary ’14, and Louie Monteagudo ’14.

Derek Hong ’14 and Upper School math teacher and taiko drummer Chris Leone.

conference, “Hosting ECTC is a gigantic undertaking, requiring more than a year’s worth of preparation for coordinating with campus facilities, bringing in workshop leaders (again, from around the world), and so much more. Gendo

JULIA FRIEND, a member of The Radcliffe Pitches—Harvard’s oldest female a cappella group—had the prestigious honor of being selected (as a result of the ensemble’s audition) to serenade and dance with this year’s Hasty Pudding “Man of the Year,” Ryan Reynolds. The nation’s oldest theater company, Hasty Pudding Theatricals is a student society at Harvard. It awards Pudding Pots to performers who have made lasting and impressive contributions to the world of entertainment.

Julia Friend ’15 dancing with actor Ryan Reynolds. SUMMER 2017

101

In Memoriam Manton Camp Martin ’35 June 4, 2017, age 99, Chappaqua, NY

Mr. Martin attended Princeton University, where he majored in Political Science; in his 60s, he began and received an M.B.A. from Pace University. He worked at Smith Barney for two years, but his Wall Street career was interrupted by three years of service in the U.S. Army Air Corps. In 1946, he joined a family firm that had been launched by his paternal grandfather in 1866. Under his eventual leadership, Martin Bros. Tobacco Co., Inc. became prominent in the fields of international marketing and export management. He was an officer of the company until his retirement in 1983. Mr. Martin was appointed by two Secretaries of Commerce to the regional District Export Council and was a member of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. He was instrumental in founding the International Executives Association and NEXCO, the National Association of Export Management Companies. Mr. Martin was married to the late Anne Rheinhardt and has two daughters, Susan Medley and the Rev. Carol Simpson; grandchildren Jennifer and Robert; and great-grandchildren Martin, Helyn, and Benjamin. Survivors also include his second wife, Rosemarie Gift, with whom he happily shared his last 38 years.

Robert F. Paashaus ’39

January 11, 2017, age 95, San Diego, CA

Mr. Paashaus served in the U.S. Army in Anchorage during World War II. After his military service, he received a bachelor’s degree in Engineering from the University of Cincinnati and a master’s from Columbia University. He had a long career at Worthington Pump Corp. in Harrison, NJ, serving as manager of the division that designed pumps for ships and submarines. During his tenure at Worthington, Mr. Paashaus had many meetings about pump design for nuclear submarines with Admiral Rickover, “the father of the nuclear Navy.” After retirement, Mr. Paashaus did extensive volunteer work, playing his flute for many hospice organizations and nursing homes. He was predeceased by his first wife Jean and second wife Sylvia. Survivors include his children Bob, Jr., Don, and Anne (Joe); and beloved granddaughter Molly. 102

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James L. Farrell ’47

Dr. Paul L. Priest ’48

Mr. Farrell graduated from Tufts College and served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. He subsequently attended the Columbia School of Broadcasting in New York City, embarking on a career in radio, which culminated in his decade as a beloved announcer on classical radio station WCRB in the Boston area. During this time, Mr. Farrell attended law school, earning his Doctor of Jurisprudence at New England School of Law. His career included work with the City of Cambridge, MA as General and Assistant City Manager. He was admitted to practice law before the U.S. Supreme Court. After departing city government, he went into private practice in Cambridge. He was preceded in death by his brother Walter. Survivors include his loving wife Margaret; sons Walter (Tara), Geoffrey, and William (Jennifer); and grandchildren Liam, Aila, Siobhan, Seamus, and Killian.

Dr. Priest graduated from Harvard University, served in the U.S. Army, attended graduate school at the University of Virginia, and completed doctoral studies at The University of North Carolina. He taught at St. John’s College in Annapolis (“the most intellectually intense and rewarding time of my life,” he wrote for his 50th Reunion), and moved to England “to teach English to the English—i.e. help some of the younger ones savor their heritage.” Dr. Priest also wrote a song about Dr. Pingry. Survivors include his second wife Helen and three children.

June 12, 2017, age 87, Holliston, MA

Dr. James H. “Jim” Cooley ’48 May 10, 2017, age 87, Troy, ID

Dr. Cooley received Bachelor of Arts and Master of Science degrees in Chemistry from Middlebury College and a doctorate in Organic Chemistry from the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis. He started his career in 1957 as an Assistant Professor of Organic Chemistry at the University of Idaho. In 1992, he retired from active teaching as Professor Emeritus, although he continued to work with students and enjoy his connections with the Chemistry Department. Dr. Cooley’s professional career included being a visiting professor at Columbia University, New York University, and Oregon State University. He also served as Acting Chair of the Chemistry Department at the University of Idaho during his last years there. He devoted decades of his career to providing a quality education for his students. Dr. Cooley was a member of the American Chemical Society, the Palouse Land Trust, and the Idaho Forest Owners Association, among other organizations. He was preceded in death by his sister Edith, stepdaughter Shauna, and stepson Dell. Survivors include his second wife Zoe Ann, daughter Susie (Al), son Chris, stepson Ben (Gretchen), and grandchildren Katie (Jarod) and Jimmy (Landon).

September 8, 2015, age 84, England

Stuart Auchincloss Truslow ’49 February 21, 2017, age 86, Atlanta, GA

Mr. Truslow attended the Academy of Aeronautics in New York and Washington and Lee University in Lexington, VA before enlisting in the U.S. Air Force. He flew the early generation of fighter-bombers, most notably the F-84F Thunderstreak, with the Strategic Air Command. Following his service to his country, Mr. Truslow became a pilot for Eastern Airlines. He was predeceased by his brother Kent ’45. Survivors include his wife of 62 years, Helen; sons Donald (Beverly) and Edward (Mary); grandchildren Ann (Mark), Stuart, and Martha; and greatgranddaughter Frances.

Howard Thain ’50

February 8, 2017, age 84, Cocoa, FL

Mr. Thain pursued a classical music vocal career at Pingry and after graduation. One of his albums features Respighi’s Il Tramonto (“The Sunset”) for tenor and string quartet, as well as pieces by Santoliquido, Wolf-Ferrari, and Debussy. Several of his recordings are available on YouTube. For many years, he taught music at a public school in Boca Raton.

Charles “Chuck” Wright Rowland ’52

Samuel Roger Williams ’55

Francis H. “Skip” Slauson ’73

Mr. Rowland graduated from Rutgers University and became as a 1st Lieutenant in the U.S. Army, serving at the Pentagon in Washington D.C.; for Counter Intelligence Corps at Fort Holabird in Baltimore, MD; and in special training with the 77th Special Forces in Fort Bragg, NC. He worked at Ford Motor Company in the New York sales district; was Assistant Wholesale Manager for J.S. Inskip Inc. in New York City; was distributor of Rolls Royce, Bentley, Aston Martin for the Eastern United States; and was Vice President and General Manager for Ed Roth, Inc. automobile dealership for British Auto Imports. From 1975 to 2014, he was employed in Senior Health and Life Insurance and estate planning. Survivors include his loving wife Stephanie “Tiffy”; sister Marian; sons Richard (Sally) and Charles (Julia); daughter Patricia; and grandchildren Rachel, Reese, Ava, Lily, Sarah, Mary Beth, Graci Rose, and Ryan.

Mr. Williams, son of the late Athletics Director and coach Reese Williams, attended Syracuse University, served for three years in the U.S. Army, and was a career salesman. He was inducted into Pingry’s Athletics Hall of Fame as a member of the 1952 Football and 1954 Baseball Teams. He was preceded in death by his son Charles and sister Anne. Survivors include his wife Faye; son Matthew; daughter Pamela (Albert); and grandchildren Maxwell, Paige, and Daniel.

Mr. Slauson was a member of Pingry’s fencing team and received an A.B. in Engineering from Lafayette College, where he also fenced. He worked for the commercial property insurance company FM Global for 39 years, retiring as Assistant Vice President and Senior Account Engineer. Survivors include his wife of 37 years, Melissa “Missy”; son Matthew; brothers Henry (Jeannie) and Timothy (Alex); parents-inlaw William and Joyce; and brother-in-law David (Michelle).

May 6, 2017, age 83, Florence, KY

Robert David Pierson ’53

February 14, 2017, age 81, Mendham, NJ

Mr. Pierson graduated from Lehigh University, became a lieutenant in the U.S. Coast Guard, and spent many years in banking. He started at The Bowery Savings Bank in the 1970s, was Vice Chairman and Director of Carteret Bancorp in the 1980s, and retired as the President of Collective Bancorp in 1997. Mr. Pierson was an active volunteer, and his favorite avocation was being a volunteer firefighter, proudly serving for 54 years with Woodland Hook and Ladder Company No. 1 in Morristown and for 28 years with Brookside Engine Company No. 1—he was an officer in both, and Chief in Brookside. Mr. Pierson was proud to be one of the founding directors of the Morris County Firefighter and Police Training Academy. Mr. Pierson served on the Mendham Township Committee for 15 years and served two terms as mayor. He also served as police commissioner. Mr. Pierson also held several board positions, including with the Morris Museum, the Morris Land Conservancy, Morristown YMCA, and the Washington Association of New Jersey. Survivors include his cherished wife of 56 years, Virginia; children Lisa (Andrew), Alexandra (David), and Robert (Patricia); and grandchildren Charlie, Jordan, Jamie, Chris, Ginger, Emily, Pierce, Sam, Liam, and Brandon.

May 21, 2017, age 80, Elkin, NC

Cornelius “Neil” Arthur Burke III ’56 May 19, 2016, age 77, Waretown, NJ

Mr. Burke was co-owner and CEO of C. A. Burke Inc. in Roselle, NJ, for 22 years before his retirement in 1997. Survivors include his beloved wife of 56 years, Rose Marie; son Robert; daughter Joan (Jim); sister Ruth (Stephen); grandchildren Sarah, Emma, Robert, Michael, Christopher, and Megan; and many nieces and nephews.

Dr. James F. Dickson, Jr. ’56 March 9, 2017, age 79, Northfield, MN

Dr. Dickson received a B.A. in Psychology from Lafayette College, a Master of Arts from Kent State University, and a Ph.D. from the University of Maryland. He was a psychology professor at St. Olaf College, retiring as Professor Emeritus of Psychology in 2005. During his 40-plus years at St. Olaf, he took sabbatical leaves at the University of Colorado, Boulder; The University of Texas at Austin; the University of Minnesota; and Memorial University in Newfoundland. Dr. Dickson also served on the Board of Directors of Cannon Valley Girl Scout Council. He was preceded in death by his son James. Survivors include his wife Mary; daughters Jean, Kathryn (Adam), and Laura; grandchildren Claire, James, Carter, Leah, and Eli; and son-in-law Timothy.

Oliver Mading ’71

April 30, 2017, age 64, Fort Pierce, FL

Mr. Mading was inducted into Pingry’s Athletics Hall of Fame as a member of the 1970 Soccer Team.

February 23, 2017, age 62, Haddonfield, NJ

Faculty/Staff

Kathleen Verna Fallon March 2, 2017, age 89, Union, NJ

Mrs. Fallon was a substitute teacher in the Lower School for many years and previously taught in the Winfield Park, NJ and Springfield, NJ public schools. She received a bachelor’s degree from The College of New Jersey and a master’s in Education from Rutgers University. She was predeceased by her husband William C. Fallon, Sr. and daughter Michelle. Survivors include her son William C. Fallon, Jr. (Helen), son-in-law Chickery, and grandchildren Patrick and Jane.

William Francis “Bill” Jaeger June 3, 2017, age 90, Colonia, NJ

Mr. Jaeger worked at Pingry from 1981 to 2003, serving in many capacities to support the administrative staff—Business Office, Bookstore and Transportation Coordinator, and Equipment Coordinator for the Athletics Department. He graduated from Seton Hall University and served in the U.S. Army in the 175th Engineer Regiment during World War II. He and his wife Marian recently celebrated their 59th wedding anniversary. He was predeceased by his brothers Julius and James. Survivors include his wife Marian; daughters Ann, Susan (Thomas), Barbara (Frank), and Lisa (Mac); son William (Eugenia); sister Joan; and 10 grandchildren, with a great-grandchild due in October.

SUMMER 2017

103

Closing Word

The Dash of Honor By Woody Garavente, Middle and Upper School Financial Literacy teacher and coach of the JV Girls Basketball and JV Girls Lacrosse Teams

Is there honor in losing 56-1 in a girls’ JV basketball game? I would say yes, but I’ll explain why a little bit later. I believe the Honor Board invited me to speak because they thought it might be interesting to hear my perspective on honor, given my business experience. I spent 29 years on Wall Street before coming to Pingry. Despite its reputation as a bunch of greedy people who would sell their souls for the right price, the capital markets are built on trust and keeping your word. When I did a large transaction, very often $250 million or, on rare occasions, a $1 billion trade, once I said “Done,” there was no ability to change my mind—or the mind of the client who initiated the transaction. The client bought, I sold, and we went about our day. Trust me, my heart was racing after a $1 billion transaction. But my reputation as a trader and the way I represented my firm all factored in to whether the client would call us back the next time they wanted to do a large trade. So, there is plenty of honor on Wall Street; I can attest to that. Is there honor in negotiating contracts? As part of my job in the mid2000s at Tradeweb, an electronic trading firm, I did just that. And I had a particular client in Charlotte who didn’t feel as if they were getting their money’s worth from the trading platform I was in charge of at the time. It was a half-million dollar contract, and I put myself in their shoes. I concluded that it was not in their best interest to 104

THE PINGRY REVIEW

renew at that time, and I told them that. They did not renew, and my boss wasn’t happy. But I gained the trust of my client, and they rejoined the platform for a higher price two years later when their business was more mature and they could better afford it. I’m still friendly with that client, 10 years later. By the way, my boss was a little happier when they re-signed. Is there honor in SAC [Student Activities Committee] committing to see every one of the sports teams at Pingry this year? Absolutely. They were a huge part of the girls’ basketball victory at the Pink Out game against Morristown in February of this year. Wacky outfits, funny cheers, hand gestures—all in good fun and the spirit of competition. Anyone who was there remembers the electricity in the Bristol Gym. The JV team was holding hands behind the bench, like a scene from March Madness, cheering for varsity player Meg Horn ’18 as she stepped to the line to attempt the game-winning free throw. This is the same JV team that lost 56-1 in early January, but had taken responsibility for the defeat and improved steadily throughout the rest of the season. In fact, we only lost by 20 points in our rematch with that team at home just a month later. That’s a big improvement. The team worked hard to improve and got along well with each other, and they were the happiest 3-14 team in the history of Pingry team sports, in my opinion. I was very proud to be their coach.

What’s the takeaway? I want to tell you a story from a funeral I attended. In his sermon, the priest told the story of a teacher who took her class to a graveyard to examine headstones. She asked: “What is the most important piece of information on each headstone?” One student said: “The name” Another opined: “The year you were born” A third said: “The cross” The teacher said: “All of those are very important, and there’s really no correct answer. But my opinion is that it’s the dash between the year you were born and the year you died. That one dash represents what you did with your life.” Pingry believes that students, faculty, staff, and administrators should understand and live by standards of honorable behavior. So how about it? What are you doing with your life? What does your dash represent? What do you want your dash to contain? Are you living your life with excellence and honor? This article is adapted from Woody Garavente’s remarks at an Upper School Morning Meeting in May. His speech was part of the Honor Board Speaker Series, in which the Honor Board invites either a faculty member or a student to address the Upper School student body.

ATTENTION! CLASSES ENDING IN 3s AND 8s! Mark your calendar for your Pingry Reunion Weekend! We look forward to welcoming you to campus on May 18-19, 2018! Alumni Class Notes Send us your latest news! Do you have a new job? New baby? Just married? Recently moved? Or any updates to share with your classmates? We are collecting class notes and photos for the next issue of The Pingry Review. Visit pingry.org/classnotes, or mail your note to Holland Sunyak Francisco ’02 The Pingry School 131 Martinsville Road Basking Ridge, NJ 07920

Please consider joining your Reunion Committee to make this milestone year a memorable one. As a member of your committee, you will play a key role in communicating with your class, increasing excitement around Reunion festivities, encouraging attendance at Reunion events, and creating a class gift. If you are interested in serving on your Reunion Committee, please contact: Holland Sunyak Francisco ’02 – Class Contact for 1968 and 1993 Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving hfrancisco@pingry.org 908-647-5555, ext. 1284 Rebecca Patterson – Class Contact for 1930s, 1940s, 1950s, 1963, 1970s, 1980s, 1998, and 2000s Associate Director, The Pingry Fund rpatterson@pingry.org 908-647-5555, ext. 1268

We are excited to work with you!

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Changing Jobs? Trying to Find Fellow Alumni? Download the secure and powerful Pingry School Alumni Connect App today, and instantly connect and network with fellow Pingry graduates around the world. The app includes an online directory of Pingry alumni that is integrated with LinkedIn and searchable by name, class year, college, industry, company, and city. The app is available on both the Apple and Android platforms.

For volunteer opportunities or any additional questions, please contact:

Holland Sunyak Francisco ’02 Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving hfrancisco@pingry.org 908-647-5555, ext. 1284

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