Wellington Magazine - Spring/Summer 2014

Wellington magazine

SPRING/SUMMER 2014 | INSIDE: WELLINGTON’S FEARLESS GRADS – PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE

Dear Friends, The end of each school year is an exciting time at Wellington because it marks the beginning of what is to come. Both 4th and 8th graders participate in Moving Up ceremonies to honor their achievements in one division as they are welcomed into the next. Upper School students are celebrated at Honors Convocation for their remarkable accomplishments as well as their dedication to making Wellington a better place for the entire school community. At commencement, seniors are ushered into the next great stage of their lives as they continue to pursue their passions at the college or university of their choice.

One of the greatest lessons our graduates will take with them into the world is that they have a choice in what their future will hold. They have already made great strides in the right direction as students at Wellington. By discovering and developing their unique talents and then using that self-knowledge to select a college where they will be challenged and inspired, members of the Class of 2014 will ensure their positions as future innovators on the world stage.

Wellington graduates will head to colleges spanning a wide-range of settings, both academically and culturally, mirroring their own diverse passions and talents. They will continue to pursue their dreams in major metropolitan areas such as New York City and Paris as well as the bucolic campuses of Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Tennessee. Some will follow their interests farther west in Colorado, while others will be a part of the forefront of science and technology right here in Columbus.

Wherever our students choose to go, they will always carry with them the lessons they learned at Wellington. Beginning with our Early Childhood classes, students working on tablet devices and planting their own vegetable garden understand that learning comes in a variety of ways far beyond the traditional classroom. Middle School students witness firsthand the significance of service through their Penny Harvest and volunteer efforts in the community. The Upper School experience culminates in students cultivating their unique interests so that they are prepared to find fulfilling, enriching lives as adults.

In truth, even after graduation, our students never truly leave Wellington. The future impact they will have on the world has already begun at our school; for no student fails to leave his or her mark on our community. Every member of our school family, from parents and students to faculty and administrators, plays an important role in making Wellington the extraordinary place it is. Thank you to all who work so hard every day to make our school special.

We have much to look forward to in the upcoming months with Wellington continuing to grow as a thought leader in education.

In the meantime, have a terrific summer and remember that those extra hours of sunlight go by quickly, use them wisely making lots of wonderful memories with family and friends.

Warm regards,

Robert D. Brisk P ‘13 ‘15 Head of School

Table of Contents 4 17

Graduation

The Wellington School Class of 2014 Wellington’s 26th graduating class is ready for greatness.

Celebrations

Arts Premiere Steps into the Past to Provide for the Future The 2014 Arts Premiere event “Wellington Goes Gatsby” was a wonderful night for the entire school community.

One Wellington. One Fantastic Day. On May 1, The Wellington School community raised over $136,000 in support of fearless learning.

Wellington Is The Art Of It All The second annual Wellington Arts Fest was fun for all.

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All School

Family Style Fearless Learning Record number of alumni are choosing Wellington for their children’s education.

Lower School Students design a future of their dreams.

Upper School Experiences in a variety of settings prepare students for lifelong fulfillment.

Athletics

Teams Bond Over Service A commitment to community service is a priority for Wellington athletes.

Season Highlights A Wellington roundup of winter and spring sports.

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Jags Everywhere

Remember to post your Jags Everywhere photos on Wellington’s Facebook page this summer!

ON THE COVER: BECCA VRABEL ’14, SHABACH TYUS ’14, MALLORY TANNOUS ’14, EMILY SWARTZ ’14, DAVID SWADDLING ’14, EMMA STEELE ’14

Division News

Middle School Wellington takes the lead in math, science, and the arts.

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Alumni

Alumni News Find out what Wellington graduates are up to.

The Members of the “Original” Class of 1989 Catch up with Wellington’s first graduating class.

The Wellington Magazine is published by The Wellington School for all members of its community.

Please send any comments to Yvonne Johnson at communications@wellington.org.

Editor: Yvonne Johnson P ‘25 ‘27 Contributors: Rachael Buckingham ’11, Bob Causey, Al Edmondson, Will Emery, Tom Haddow, Dorene Henschen, Greg Huffman, Helen McConaghy, Bill Mitchin, John Olesik, Monique Sierzputowski P ’17 ’18 ’19, Abbey Slee, Craig Taylor P ’16 ’18 Copyeditors: Laura Cooke ’90 P ’21 ’21 ’24 ’27, Maryline Kulewicz P ’12, Melanie Eggleton, Caroline Haskett P ’19 ’20 ’22, Erin Noviski, Lindsey Smith P ’26, Sally Stratton, Lynne Steger P ’04 ’09, Jeff Terwin, Jill Webb Photo Credits: Jonathan Barteldt, Karen Campbell P ’10 ’14, Chris Cooke P ‘21 ‘21 ‘24 ‘27, Laura Cooke ’90 P ‘21 ‘21 ‘24 ‘27, Abbey Slee, Marlo Tannous P ’14 ’16, Jen Tonapi P ‘24 Layout: Bluewave Creative

The Wellington School Board of Trustees 2013-14 Mr. Larry Abbott P ‘92 ‘00 ‘03 Ms. Tonda Adiansingh P ‘16 ‘20 ‘24 Mr. M. Douglas Anderson P ‘08 ‘11 ‘15 ‘20 Ms. Darla Kay Ball P ‘16 ‘20 Mr. James Croft, Treasurer P ‘17 ‘20 ‘22 Ms. Michelle Croft P ‘17 ‘20 ‘22 Ms. Dionne Custer Ms. Lisa Edwards P ‘11 ‘14 ‘18 ‘25 Ms. Sally A. Hughes P ‘16 Dr. Janette Knowles P ‘12 ‘17 Ms. Nancy Kramer, Chair P ‘07 ‘09 ‘11 Mr. Ted K. Manley, Secretary P ‘21 ‘24 Mr. John Marshall P ‘20 ‘22 Mr. Paul Morse P ‘09 ‘11 ‘11 ‘14 Mr. John Ohsner ‘03 Mr. Dale K. Perdue P ‘15, Vice Chair Mr. Robert Price P ‘08 ‘12 ‘16 Mr. Bryan Stewart ‘95 P ‘27 Mr. Jeffrey D. Swaddling ‘89 P ‘16 Mr. Robert J. Tannous P ‘14 ‘16 Dr. Andrew Thomas P ‘14 ‘16 ‘26 Ms. Kristin Trost P ‘23 Dr. Caroline Whitacre P ‘03 Professor Christian Zacher P ‘12

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GRADUATION

THE WELLINGTON SCHOOL CLASS OF 2014

Wellington Grads Are

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he Wellington Class of 2014 will dare to be great as the 26th graduating class in the school’s history.

At commencement exercises in the Gard Gym on June 6, Head of School Robert Brisk P ’13 ’15 welcomed attendees and thanked parents ANNE HULTHEN ’14, and faculty for their partnership in ROBERT BRISK P ’13 ’15 helping students fulfill their greatest potential. He congratulated seniors on their honors and distinctions and told them they were ready for their next steps toward greatness.

Brisk made special mention of the 18 “Lifers,” those students who have been attending Wellington since prekindergarten, kindergarten, or 1st grade. “We thank you for the amazing commitment your longevity represents.” The group also included, for the first time, the son of alumni parents as well as the grandson of a founder.

The parents of David Swaddling ’14, Jeff Swaddling ’89 and Amie (Scherer) Swaddling ‘90, were high school sweethearts at Wellington and David’s grandfather is Wellington founder Dave Swaddling.

Senior Class President Gab Smith ’14 presented the class gift to the school. The Class of 2014 will donate three sets of outdoor picnic tables, with umbrellas, to match those already in place outside the Thomas Family Dining Room. “Our hope is that this gift will help 4 • WELLINGTON MAGAZINE

create many more memories for the Wellington community for years to come.”

Editor Emma Steele ’14 and advertising manager Lizzie Dvorkin ‘14 offered the yearbook dedication. The 29th volume of “The Duke” will be dedicated to Wellington athletic trainer Dominic Davis P ’14 ’19 for pushing every student to overcome his or her obstacles and providing student athletes the physical and emotional support they need to succeed. The yearbook will also include a dedication to 7th grader Courtney Roy, who passed away in January after battling cancer.

Class speaker Josh Roseler ’14 provided a humorous stroll down memory lane in each of the three divisions. “This place is more than just the sum of its parts. There’s something special about the way we feel like a family.”

Music Award 2014 recipient Dawning Welliver played a Rachmaninoff piece on her violin to the piano accompaniment of her mother Meng Welliver P ’14 ’21.

The Graduation address was delivered by J.D. Orr,

SHARON ZHOU ’14, DELANEY PERKINS ’14

JOSH LEINO ’14, SHABACH TYUS ’14, JOE CAMPBELL ’14, ANTHONY DAVIS ’14

LUCY CABORN ’14, NANCY KRAMER P ’07 ’09 ’11

“Whatever your vision, make it happen.”

TAFF ANDERSON ’14, GRAYSON ASHBY ’14, NATALIE MORSE ’14, AMELIA PALMER ’14

Ready for Greatness J.D. ORR

founder and CEO of Formations Design Group and The International Center for Creativity. He urged graduates to stand by their convictions, build lasting relationships, and dare to be great.

Alumna Miranda Lewis ’98, sister of graduating senior Delaney Perkins, officially welcomed the Class of 2014 into the Wellington Alumni Association.

“Whatever your vision, make it happen,” Orr said.

In a poignant closing, Brisk said, “Class of 2014, we send you forth, with our affection, our pride in who you are, and our eager anticipation of the next steps in your journeys.”

Diplomas were presented by Brisk, Head of Upper School Jeff Terwin, and Wellington Board Chair Nancy Kramer P ‘07 ‘09 ‘11.

ABBY FLEETER ’14, NICK HAMMOND ’14

ROBERT BRISK P ’13 ’15, DAWNING WELLIVER ’14

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GRADUATION

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4 PICTURED: 1. NIA KAUDO ‘14 2. CLASS OF 2014 CELEBRATES. 3. ANDREW SHEPHERD ’14, TOVA SELTZER ’14, ROBERT SHUMM ’14, JOHN SCHOELLKOPFF ’14, MAX SCHMITZ ’14, JOSH ROSELER ’14, HUNTER POWELL ’14 4. BEN SMITH ‘14 5. AMBER JOHNSON ’14, KATIE KING ‘14 6. JEFF SWADDLING ’89 P ’14, DAVID SWADDLING ’14, DAVE SWADDLING 7. ROBERT SCHUMM ’14, NICK HAMMOND ’14, EMILY SWARTZ ’14, ABBY FLEETER ’14, JOHN SCHOELLKOPFF ’14, EM HAMMETT ’14, QUINTEN HUTCHISON ’14, SARAH WAYMAN ’14, MICHAEL DORAN ’14 8. MICHAEL DORAN ’14, NANCY KRAMER P ’07 ’09 ’11, JEFF WILKINS 9. ZOE CASE ’14, AMELIA PALMER ’14 10. BRITTANY ANDERSON ’14, JEFF TERWIN 11. EMILY SWARTZ ’14, SARAH WAYMAN ’14 12. DANIEL KUSHNIR ’14, HAMILTON GREEN ’14 13. EMMA STEELE ’14, HUNTER POWELL ’14, TAFF ANDERSON ’14, NATALIE MORSE ’14, WILL EDWARDS ’14, MALLORY TANNOUS ’14, ROBERT BRISK P ’13 ’15, ANNIE POSTLE ’14, JEFF TERWIN, DAVID SWADDLING ’14, SARAH WAKEMAN ’14, KATIE KING ’14, LIZZIE DVORKIN ’14 14. TOVA SELTZER ’14, QUINTEN HUTCHISON ’14 15. NANCY KRAMER P ’07 ’09 ’11, ANTHONY DAVIS ’14, DOMINIC DAVIS P ’14 ’19 16. SHABACH TYUS ’14, ELYAS INGRAM ’14 17. NANCY KRAMER P ’07 ’09 ’11, BECCA VRABEL ’14 18. AARON PHILLIPS ’14, DELANEY PERKINS ’14, AMELIA PALMER ’14 19. LINCOLN FICEK ’14, ROBERT BRISK P ’11 ’13 20. GAB SMITH ’14, HAMILTON GREEN ’14 21. DONNETTE COX ’14, ANTHONY DAVIS ’14, MICHAEL DORAN ’14, LIZZIE DVORKIN ’14, WILL EDWARDS ’14, LINCOLN FICEK ’14, ABBY FLEETER ’14, HAMILTON GREEN ’14 22. SARAH WAKEMAN ’14, CHRIS JONES ’14 23. LIZZIE DVORKIN ’14, NANCY KRAMER P ’07 ’09 ’11 24. GABRIELLE BERRY ’14, ROBERT BRISK P ’13 ’15

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SPRING/SUMMER 2014 • 7

GRADUATION

Meet Our Graduates BRITTANY ANDERSON

University of Michigan – Business Management/Marketing Favorite Wellington memory: Ski Fridays and dances.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: Becoming prepared for college, becoming good writers, and being able to think.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Don’t procrastinate.

Best piece of advice from your parents: If your plan A doesn’t work out, move on to plan B. Never give up on your dreams.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: I was actually good at science when I never thought I would be.

What you will miss most at Wellington: My teachers and a few people.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Being ridiculously cool as a successful businesswoman making bank.

Favorite place in the world: Los Angeles or NYC. TAFF ANDERSON The University of Colorado at Boulder – Film and Business How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: The amount of film classes offered and the teachers.

Favorite Wellington memory: Going to Italy.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: Access to other Wellington departments.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Ask questions!

Best piece of advice from your parents: Don’t be stupid.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: How much I was able to get done in such little time.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: On a beach in the Virgin Islands after making off with a killing from an elaborate heist.

Favorite place in the world: Patagonia, Chile.

GRAYSON ASHBY

Furman University – Pre-Med How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: My work in Advanced Biology and Advanced Chemistry along with working on my Independent Science Research project reaffirmed my love for science.

Favorite Wellington memory: Both Disney trips with the baseball team.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: The teachers truly want the students to succeed.

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Life lesson learned at Wellington: If you give a challenge the respect it deserves, you will always be able to accomplish your task.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Only you control what you can and can’t do.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: My ability to overcome adversity.

What you will miss most at Wellington: The freedom to pursue any and all of my interests.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Finishing my residency and becoming a doctor.

Favorite place in the world: Ocean Isle Beach, NC.

GABRIELLE BERRY

DePaul University – Business Administration or Communications How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: I knew that I wanted a smaller school and a close-knit community just like Wellington.

Favorite Wellington memory: Coloring on boxes and making smoothies in Recycling Club with Ms. Noviski.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: Lifelong friendships.

Learning how to think outside of the box. Expanding your horizons.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: You can be a part of so many different things as long as you manage your time wisely.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Be yourself no matter what.

You are fearfully and wonderfully made. Don’t ever forget that.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: My ability to open up. I used to be really shy but now I’m not.

What you will miss most at Wellington: All of my friends and everything about swim team.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: I see myself as an HR manager.

Favorite place in the world: New York City.

LUCY CABORN

Sarah Lawrence College – Art and English How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: Helped me find my interests.

Favorite Wellington memory: Eating spaghetti.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: Being mothered by Mrs. Althof.

What you will miss most at Wellington: The nifty teachers.

Favorite place in the world: My bed.

JOE CAMPBELL

Hamline - Business How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: Helped me appreciate the value of a smaller school.

Favorite Wellington memory: Swimming districts senior year.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: Rigorous work should be advantageous for me in college.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Spirit makes it more fun.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Don’t be sorry, be different.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: Suddenly doing well in math.

What you will miss most at Wellington: My lane at swim practice.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Somewhere overseas.

Favorite place in the world: Columbus, OH.

ZOE CASE

Kenyon College – English and Media Studies How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: Wellington provided me the platform and confidence that I needed to be able to complete the college search. I felt like I had a great support system.

Favorite Wellington memory: Walking down 42nd St. and taking pictures during the choir trip to New York City.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: I was given opportunities that I would not have otherwise had.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: It will all be alright in the end. If it is not yet alright, it is not the end.

Best piece of advice from your parents: No matter who you become in your life, we will always love you.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: How much freedom I was given to be an individual. I was also pleasantly surprised that all of my hard work was always recognized.

What you will miss most at Wellington: My beautiful, lovely friends.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Working on my Ph.D. at Cambridge or writing scripts for Hollywood movies.

Favorite place in the world: London, though I’ve never been there.

DONNETTE COX

University of Findlay – Pre-Vet How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: The College Counseling team – Oremus, Nally, and Bernard.

Favorite Wellington memory: Cayman Islands Biology trip.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: Being involved in so many clubs and activities. Building relationships with teachers.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Hard work pays off in the end.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Get as much experience as possible in what you enjoy.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: How much I improved at writing papers and essays over the years.

What you will miss most at Wellington: Sports and team bonding.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Just graduating from OSU grad school specializing as an exotic veterinarian.

Favorite place in the world: Australia.

ANTHONY DAVIS

Wright State University - Film How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: It reinforced my interest in my major.

Favorite Wellington memory: Duggan #thumpem’duggan Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: Learning to deal with all types of people.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Never regret anything because you wouldn’t be you without those experiences.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: Nothing.

Turned out as good as expected.

What you will miss most at Wellington: The people.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Traveling around the world, getting as much experience as possible.

Favorite place in the world: Sweden.

MICHAEL DORAN

Ohio State – Engineering, Business, Computer Science How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: It made me want to go to a college where I could get involved in a wide range of different activities.

Favorite Wellington memory: Senior year soccer season.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: Getting to experience a small diverse community where I could be involved in a wide range of different activities.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Don’t be afraid to try new things.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: How many different clubs I got involved in.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Working in whatever field I choose to go into.

Favorite place in the world: Chicago, IL.

LIZZIE DVORKIN

Miami University – Business and Biomedical Engineering How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: It made me realize that I want to go to a school where I can be involved in a lot of different things.

Favorite Wellington memory: The basketball Jaguar Invitational this year. There was an amazing turnout and the spirit was unbelievable.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: You can be whomever you want here. No one cares if you’ve never played a sport before. You will be welcomed with open arms.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Try new things. You never know what could come out of it.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Do your homework!

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: I actually have fun doing math homework.

What you will miss most at Wellington: The people here. I couldn’t have asked for better people to grow up with.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Working in the marketing department at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.

Favorite place in the world: With my friends. SPRING/SUMMER 2014 • 9

GRADUATION

WILL EDWARDS

Colorado College - History and Graphic Design How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: I chose my college because it is a small, tight-knit community like Wellington.

Favorite Wellington memory: French and Marine Biology trips.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: The close friendships you make being at school with people your entire life.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Get involved!

Best piece of advice from your parents: Live life to the fullest.

What you will miss most at Wellington: My classmates and teachers.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Doing something interesting and exciting.

Favorite place in the world: Camp Kooch-I-Ching, International Falls, MN.

LINCOLN FICEK

Ohio State University – Sports Industry How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: Wellington has so many opportunities. I wanted to go to a college with a lot of opportunities.

Favorite Wellington memory: Meeting friends in gym class and tennis.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: The wonderful teachers.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Don’t be afraid to try new things.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Don’t procrastinate.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: How much I got involved in the community.

What you will miss most at Wellington: The teachers.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Working in the MLB front office.

Favorite place in the world: Columbus, OH.

ABBY FLEETER

Macalester College – Counseling Psychology How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: I looked for a college with small classes that are discussion-based, good relationships between students and faculty, and teachers who have a passion for teaching. I knew to look for all these things because they were great aspects of Wellington.

Favorite Wellington memory: Advisory dance parties!

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: You’re in a community where the faculty genuinely cares about the students. We are also given the freedom to be our own independent people.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: The greatest skill in life is being able to find balance and to factor happiness into that balance. Success is nothing without happiness.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Do things because you have a passion for them and never because you think it will look good on a resume. Also, good grades do not equal happiness.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: That I was finally able to realize that high school grades do not determine the rest of my life, or my worth.

What you will miss most at Wellington: The teachers who help me 10 • WELLINGTON MAGAZINE

discover my purpose and my passions.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Out of grad school, with a family, and working as a counseling psychologist.

Favorite place in the world: A coffee shop – it doesn’t matter where!

HAMILTON GREEN

Ohio State University - Engineering How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: Wellington helped me earn scholarships.

Favorite Wellington memory: Neff’s chill sessions and assessment week.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: Small classes = actual learning. People care about learning here.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Sometimes it’s best to let things go.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Family is most important.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: My patience.

What you will miss most at Wellington: My amazing friends.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Married to Eden, with a stable job and kids.

Favorite place in the world: By Eden’s side.

EM HAMMETT

Sarah Lawrence College – Creative Writing and French How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: Thanks to Wellington’s community and curriculum, I looked at schools with similar intellectual vibes that Wellington has.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: Small classes, great intellectual faculty, and an inclusive environment. The food’s good, too.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: You get out of your Wellington experience what you put into it.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Don’t quit.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: How much I was able to accomplish, especially under the pressures of high school.

What you will miss most at Wellington: The memories. The teachers.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Hopefully teaching English abroad and writing on the side. Potentially married. No kids, but maybe a cat or two.

Favorite place in the world: Chicago, IL.

NICK HAMMOND

University of Pittsburgh – Chemical Engineering How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: Allowed me to explore my interests.

Favorite Wellington memory: When Mr. Foley showed us how not to dance at homecoming.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: Teachers care.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Upper classmen aren’t scary.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Don’t give up.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: I didn’t quit.

What you will miss most at Wellington: The teachers.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Grad school or working.

Favorite place in the world: Venice.

ANNE HULTHEN

Columbia University Sciences – Philosophy and Economics How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: Wellington opened me to experiences that I would have hidden from before and helped me to realize that I do not want a traditional life. This discovery led me to pursue the dual B.A. program in which I will study for two years in France and two years in New York.

Favorite Wellington memory: Visiting the Philadelphia Art Museum with Tova Seltzer and giggling hysterically over Marcel Duchamp.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: Learning to think deeply and speak articulately on every subject.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Being the smartest person in the room does not mean being the loudest. Success is a societal construct, kindness is not.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Never compare yourself to others. There’s always someone in the world who’s better than you at something.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: How quickly I learned to talk to others and overcome my inherent shyness.

What you will miss most at Wellington: The weirdness of everything that happens in this school.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Drinking coffee every morning in an old café, and trying to improve the world at least a little.

Favorite place in the world: My kitchen during a snow storm.

QUINTEN HUTCHISON

Case Western Reserve – Computer Science How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: The robotics program allowed me to discover my passion for computer science.

Favorite Wellington memory: Choir class with John and Hamilton.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: The wide array of options.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Try everything. You may surprise yourself with what you like.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Never close doors on yourself.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: How easy writing papers became after English 10/Junior Comp.

What you will miss most at Wellington: The teachers.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Working at a job I love and living in a house I love.

Favorite place in the world: New York, New York.

ELYAS INGRAM

Lake Forest College – Sports Management How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: Encouraged me to take a serious look at liberal arts schools.

Favorite Wellington memory: Pinson Day. Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: Freedom outside of class.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Try everything you can; chances are you’ll enjoy it.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Work hard.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: My ability to handle my schedule.

What you will miss most at Wellington: My long spring break.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Happy, alive, and healthy.

Favorite place in the world: Chicago, IL.

AMBER JOHNSON

Kent State University – Fashion Design How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: I felt like I was able to reach more.

Favorite Wellington memory: Being Mrs. Althof’s T.A. all year.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: Having more freedom than other schools.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Do your homework.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Do what you want as long as you’re happy and not homeless.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: I learned to like the uniform.

What you will miss most at Wellington: My favorite Asian…Sharon Zhou.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Paris Fashion Week.

Favorite place in the world: Between Elk Rapids, MI and Toulouse, France.

CHRISTOPHER JONES

American University – International Relations How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: My teachers helped me figure out what sort of college to go for.

Favorite Wellington memory: DUGGAN! Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: The wide range of engaging classes.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Patience is a virtue.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Always have a contingency plan and be confident in the face of embarrassment.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: I actually enjoy math on the side!

What you will miss most at Wellington: The fun and interesting classes.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Foreign service.

Favorite place in the world: Taipei, Taiwan.

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GRADUATION

NIA KAUDO

University of Pennsylvania – Philosophy, Politics, and Economics How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: Wellington made me realize my potential and pushed me to pursue admission at a top university despite my doubts.

Favorite Wellington memory: 8th grade Toronto trip.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: The College Counseling Program, the freedom given to students, and the family dynamic of the whole school.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Don’t ever be ashamed to do well.

It’s cooler to succeed than to pretend you don’t care.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Handle your business.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: That I was able to do well in science and math, as well as history and language arts.

What you will miss most at Wellington: My friends.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Extremely successful and continuing to build my political career.

Favorite place in the world: Disney World.

KATIE KING

Denison University – Psychology or Communications How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: The sense of community in Wellington made that one of the most important factors in my college search.

Favorite Wellington memory: Going to France my freshman and junior years.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: The College Counseling Program.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Don’t worry about joining the “cool” clubs/sports teams. Join things you’re interested in. You’ll be happier and have better friends in the long run. Also, don’t hate on the uniform.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Do what makes you happy.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: I learned to love the uniform.

What you will miss most at Wellington: The people (teachers and classmates).

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Graduated from grad school.

Favorite place in the world: With my friends and family.

DANIEL KUSHNIR

Otterbein University How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: Liberal arts feel of Wellington.

Favorite Wellington memory: 5th grade camp.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: Good education.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Teachers are approachable.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Be calm.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: I didn’t quit.

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What you will miss most at Wellington: Brdar and Neff.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Working.

Favorite place in the world: Venice, Italy.

JOSH LEINO

Ohio State University – Law/Film/ Sports Industry How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: I think it really helped me grow as a person and discover my strengths.

Favorite Wellington memory: Playing for varsity baseball team.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: The opportunities that I was given that not every other school gives.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Be the best person you can be. Be the best student you can be.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Hard work will pay off.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: The different things I did that I thought I never would.

What you will miss most at Wellington: All the friends I have made.

The baseball team and my teammates.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: With a family and a good paying job.

Favorite place in the world: Any baseball diamond.

NATALIE MORSE

University of Kentucky – Nursing How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: Faculty and staff were very helpful.

Favorite Wellington memory: France trip.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: Mrs. Brdar.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Always be open-minded.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Be independent.

What you will miss most at Wellington: Two week spring break.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: With lots of dogs.

Favorite place in the world: Bahamas.

AMELIA PALMER

New York University – Environmental Sciences How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: It helped me hone in my interests and passions. Wellington taught me that the sky is the limit on my dreams.

Favorite Wellington memory: All of Brdar’s digressions during history.

The first time I got a 100% on a math test (ever) and Mrs. Larson sought me out and celebrated with me.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: Teachers that are excited to learn and are eager to answer questions. Great friends and fellow classmates. A feeling of independence.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Always ask questions if you don’t understand something. Don’t settle for simply not knowing or understanding something. It will only drag you down.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Never say “can’t.” If you work hard enough and try hard enough, you can achieve the impossible.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: How much I have grown since middle school. This school has taught me how to write, and how to do math.

What you will miss most at Wellington: My quirky, unique, crazy friends. The supportive and friendly teachers.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Being in a different country creating/performing music at night and working to save our planet during the day. Basically finding happiness, purpose, and adventure.

Favorite place in the world: My room at my desk, I create the most there without any judgment or interruption. I can be me.

DELANEY PERKINS

Loyola University of Chicago – International Business How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: Wellington allowed me to explore what I want to major in when I’m in college which made me look for the school that had a reputable program in that field.

Favorite Wellington memory: I can’t point out just one memory I have from my 4 years here, so I’d have to say that my favorite part was the people I met and how much they’ve impacted my life.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: The best thing about Wellington is the personal attention from teachers because of small class sizes.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Always be open-minded about trying new things because you never know how much of an impact it can have on you.

Best piece of advice from your parents: My parents have always encouraged me to be self-reliant because ultimately I am the one that determines my future and where I go in life.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: How I was able to open up as a person inside and outside of the classroom.

What you will miss most at Wellington: I’m going to miss the family atmosphere and how Wellington was so supportive in everything I did.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Owning my own company that in some way gives back to the world.

Favorite place in the world: Hawaii.

AARON PHILLIPS

Wright State University – Biological Science How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: One of my best friends here recommended this university.

Favorite Wellington memory: Friends.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: Lots of personal attention.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Know who your real friends are.

What you will miss most at Wellington: My friends.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Probably still in the Air Force or working on my MD degree.

ANNIE POSTLE

Miami University – Business Favorite Wellington memory: When Mr. Foley danced with Ms. Brdar.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: Small classes and college counseling.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Do everything you can while you can.

What you will miss most at Wellington: Two week spring break.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Africa.

Favorite place in the world: Africa.

HUNTER POWELL

Wittenberg – Music Production How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: I tried to find a college more laid back.

Favorite Wellington memory: Getting out early for senior privileges.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: The study halls.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Don’t drink and drive.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: How hard I could work.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: 28 years old.

Favorite place in the world: Raising Cane’s.

JOSH ROSELER

United States Air Force Academy – Aeronautical Engineering How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: Wellington taught me the value of small classes.

Favorite Wellington memory: Launching pumpkins with a giant trebuchet.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: Students become very well rounded while being able to pursue their passions.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: If you wait until the last second, it will only take you a second.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Never spend more than you make.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: How outgoing I became.

What you will miss most at Wellington: The freedom to do everything which interests you.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: In a F-35 cockpit.

Favorite place in the world: London, England.

JOHN SCHOELLKOPFF

University of Pittsburgh – Material Engineering How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: My classes of math and science augmented my interest in engineering. Also, the community significantly influenced me to pick Pittsburgh.

Favorite Wellington memory: Aaron Phillips rolling on the ground laughing.

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GRADUATION Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: I was given the tools to prepare me for college and my future.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Always expect the unexpected.

Best piece of advice from your parents: How you affect the environment affects you the most.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: How odd I am.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: In my basement with a transmutation machine making money from nothing.

Favorite place in the world: Yuki Hana Sushi.

MAX SCHMITZ

Ohio University – Music and German How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: I looked for colleges with a similar atmosphere to Wellington.

Favorite Wellington memory: 8th grade trip to Toronto, Latin trip to Italy, and playing guitar in the commons.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: Small classes, personal attention, and teachers who really care.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Never fall behind on schoolwork.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Follow your dreams.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: That I actually made it through to the end.

What you will miss most at Wellington: My band mates in Salt.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Living in Germany, playing in an awesome band.

Favorite place in the world: Wherever I can get a gig.

ROBERT SHUMM

University of Colorado at Boulder – History and Education How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: I learned that community is important.

Favorite Wellington memory: Playing on the old playground.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: Being a part of a tight and fun community.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: It’s good to try hard, but make sure you’re doing what you love.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Don’t get burned.

What you will miss most at Wellington: The teachers.

Favorite place in the world: In a comfy chair, right before I fall asleep.

TOVA SELTZER

American University – English literature How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: I have such a range of opportunities here and can be myself; I knew I wanted both of those aspects in my college.

Favorite Wellington memory: Visiting the Philadelphia Museum of Art with Anne Hulthen.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: Having the opportunity to participate in a huge range of activities and never being pigeonholed or limited.

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Life lesson learned at Wellington: Treat people with respect no matter what. You don’t know anyone’s full story but your own.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Have a balanced life. Work hard, but take time for the things you enjoy.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: That I could be an athlete.

What you will miss most at Wellington: Being surrounded by friends and never having to question that I belong.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: An editor for novels at a publishing house with a small but gorgeously decorated apartment and a small greyhound.

Favorite place in the world: Either Chicago or my own bedroom.

ANDY SHEPHERD

Harding University – Business and Engineering How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: It made me want to go to a small college.

Favorite Wellington memory: Junior LEGO competition volunteer dinner table.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: Individual teacher focus.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Keep trying.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Hard work equals success.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: How different we are from other schools.

What you will miss most at Wellington: My friends and Mrs. Brdar.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Global dictator.

Favorite place in the world: Home.

BEN SMITH

Drexel – Business How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: I was given the chance to try everything and see what I like.

Favorite Wellington memory: Too many to write down.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: Being able to try everything to find what I like.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Don’t be afraid to do new things.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Expect the best and want the best.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: The amount of times I put myself in leadership positions.

What you will miss most at Wellington: Playing sports with my friends.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: With money.

Favorite place in the world: The soccer field.

GABRIELLE SMITH

The Culinary Institute of America – Culinary Arts How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: I learned how to be independent and how to be confident in my choices.

Favorite Wellington memory: The D.C. trip with Mr. Meyer and his plunger.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: The close-knit community and having many opportunities such as the arts, athletics, and academics.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Do what makes you happy and everything else should fall into place.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Do what you love and work hard at it.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: I can do just about anything as long as I work towards it.

What you will miss most at Wellington: The teachers and community.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: I hope to be a well-known chef in the culinary world, be an executive chef, and make a difference in the industry.

Favorite place in the world: In a clean kitchen.

EMMA STEELE

University of Virginia – English How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: The many unique English courses helped me realize that I enjoy reading and writing many different genres.

Favorite Wellington memory: On twin day, my sister and I dressed the same and switched places in class. We totally fooled the teacher. He even called me by her name.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: The unique education and opportunities as well as the College Counseling Program.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Don’t be afraid to pursue what you’re passionate about, not matter what it is. No matter what, the teachers will make it work.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Give 100% at everything you do and no matter the outcome, be satisfied with your effort.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: I’m not as shy as I thought I was.

What you will miss most at Wellington: The close-knit community both inside and outside the campus.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Married with kids.

Favorite place in the world: Siesta Key.

DAVID SWADDLING

Miami University How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: The College Counseling Program encouraged me to explore all of my college options.

Favorite Wellington memory: Toronto and France trips.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: Matball.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Put your best foot forward.

EMILY SWARTZ

Ohio State University – Data Analytics How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: College Counseling Program was extremely supportive and helpful and made the choice easier.

Favorite Wellington memory: Jury selection in Stories on Trial class.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: The chicken sandwiches are excellent.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Form = Content Best piece of advice from your parents: Don’t talk to that Anne kid.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: I passed!

What you will miss most at Wellington: Free lunch.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Living in the Outback with kangaroos.

Favorite place in the world: Orange Leaf.

MALLORY TANNOUS

Denison University – Business Favorite Wellington memory: France trip.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: The small classes and specialized attention.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Take hard classes early on.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Treat people the way you want to be treated.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: That I could become a student council leader for 3 years.

What you will miss most at Wellington: My friends and teachers.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Traveling a lot.

Favorite place in the world: Hawaii.

SHABACH TYUS

Lynn University – Psychology and Business Management How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: It made me realize that wherever I go, I will be content and successful.

Favorite Wellington memory: Every time I talked to someone in the halls and made them smile in even the smallest way.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: Being comfortable enough to do the things that interest me.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Do the work so you don’t get left behind. It will be worth it in the end.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Do your best and the things will work out.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: My tolerance.

What you will miss most at Wellington: Lunchtime and school events.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Having my own psychology practice. Happy and content.

Favorite place in the world: Greece.

BECCA VRABEL

Ohio State University – Psychology and Biology How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: I wanted to be more than just a number.

Favorite Wellington memory: Ten-tire bouncer.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: Small classes and personal SPRING/SUMMER 2014 • 15

GRADUATION relationships with teachers.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Form = Content.

Best piece of advice from your parents: You are always fabulous.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: How wonderfully awesome I am.

What you will miss most at Wellington: The people.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Hopefully working a real job (with more lizards).

Favorite place in the world: My bed.

SARAH WAKEMAN

Wake Forest University – Elementary Education and International Studies How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: Small class sizes and connection to teachers.

Favorite Wellington memory: The class trip to Philadelphia.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: Small class sizes, diversity, and non-traditional approach to teaching.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Try new things because you never know what you will succeed in unless you try something new.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Do your best and be yourself.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: That I could sing.

What you will miss most at Wellington: Mrs. Cornett’s great advice and guidance.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Making a difference in people’s lives, teaching or working at the UN, and traveling.

Favorite place in the world: Tecate, Mexico.

SARAH WAYMAN

Marietta College – Geology How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: I learned what I want in a college and what works best for me.

Favorite Wellington memory: Getting breakfast with my Atmospheric Chemistry class.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: Having great friends and teachers that care.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Applying to college can be stressful, but in the end it will work out for the best.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Test scores and letter grades do not always reflect you as a person.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: How much I cared about test scores.

What you will miss most at Wellington: The girls golf team.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Living in a place I like, with my dog, being happy.

Favorite place in the world: California.

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DAWNING WELLIVER

Vanderbilt University – Music Performance and International Relations How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: Patience and support of the college counseling team.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: Teachers who are passionate, knowledgeable, and understanding.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Attitude does make a difference, and it’s entirely your choice. You don’t have to be like everyone else.

Best piece of advice from your parents: Don’t compare yourself to anyone.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: Ability to adapt to the culture and community.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: Starting my own international music education program.

Favorite place in the world: Quiet places surrounded by trees.

SHARON ZHOU

Maryland Institute College of Art – Fine Arts How did your experience at Wellington impact your college choice: College Counseling Program helped me so much.

Favorite Wellington memory: Making friends and Mrs. Althof and Mr. Neff’s classes.

Greatest benefit of attending Wellington: Small classes and great teachers.

Life lesson learned at Wellington: Don’t be afraid of speaking out.

Biggest surprise about yourself as a student at Wellington: Becoming an art student.

What you will miss most at Wellington: Mrs. Althof and Mr. Neff.

Where you see yourself in 10 years: I hope to be an artist.

Favorite place in the world: Kyoto, Japan.

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CELEBRATIONS 5

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PICTURED: 1. KATIE KUTTRUS ’23, MAYA AVERY ‘23, ABIGAIL NORITZ ’23, LILLIAN THOMPSON ’23 2. JACOB THOMAS ’26, ELDEN THOMAS 3. JIBREEL ASKIRA ‘26, ANDREW MOYER ‘26, MAX WILLIAMS ‘26, WILL BERNARD ‘26 4. CARTER HYER , STEPHANIE HYER P ‘24 5. ELIZABETH BELCHER P ’23, AWBREY BELCHER ’23, AND BROTHER 6. JENNIFER THOMPSON P ‘22 ‘23 ‘26 ‘28, JONATHAN BARTELDT, LAURA COOKE ‘90 P ‘21 ‘21 ‘24 ‘27, KIM CLARK P ‘21 ‘23 ‘26 7. GEORGE ANDERSON, MOLLY ANDERSON ’15 8. ROBERT BRISK P ’13 ’15, JON PETZ

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SPRING/SUMMER 2014 • 17

CELEBRATIONS

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Arts Premiere Steps into the P

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he 2014 Arts Premiere event “Wellington Goes Gatsby” was a wonderful night for the entire school community, raising more than $175,000 to directly support the students and programs at Wellington.

Originally conceived as an exhibition for student artwork in 1996, Arts Premiere has grown into a very special evening for the Wellington community to enjoy a fun night out with friends while also showing their support for the school’s mission to foster fearless learning.

The 2014 Arts Premiere event committee chairs Kim Clark P ’21 ’23 ’26 and Jen Thompson P ’22 ’23 ’26 ’28, with the help of many dedicated parent volunteers, brought the classic F. Scott Fiztgerald

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novel “The Great Gatsby” back from the past to create an evening filled with Jazz Age gaiety and merriment.

Partygoers arriving at Scioto Country Club were instantly transported back in time when they were invited to pose for a picture inside a vintage car provided through the courtesy of Wellington alumni parent Barbara LeVeque. Flappers danced through the crowds as dames and gents imbibed and indulged on delicious hors d’oeuvres.

A live auction provided thrills as attendees vied for luxury vacation getaways, professional sports experiences, and student artwork.

Silent auction items, Fund-A-Need, and a wine wall provided other fantastic opportunities for guests to support Wellington students’ pursuit of their dreams.

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Past to Provide for the Future The 2014 Arts Premiere “Wellington Goes Gatsby” was a fabulous fundraiser far surpassing all expectations. A very special thank you to presenting sponsors Rick and Sara Mershad P ’13 ’15 ’17. Wellington is also grateful for the enthusiastic support of our devoted volunteers and staff.

Anneliese Adkinson Jonathan Barteldt Elizabeth Bernard Rob Brisk Jackie Cios Kim Clark Laura Cooke

Melanie Eggleton Sunny Fahlgren Heather Goldberg Kristie Hale Laura Hall-Koethe Caroline Haskett Kerstin Humphrys Stephanie Hyer Yvonne Johnson Kate Khazraei Cricket Kirk Defne Kocak Barbara LeVeque Linda Maggio Carol Manley Daphne Meimaridis Tracey Noritz Rebecca Nutter

Jillian Obenour Tara Paider Abbey Slee Gina Spicer Erin Stoner Stephanie Stover Gina Jacobs Thomas Jen Thompson Jennifer Tonapi Kristin Trost

PICTURED: 1. BOB TANNOUS P ‘14 ‘16, LISA DORAN P ‘14 ‘16 ‘26 2. GATSBY GOERS AT ARTS PREMIERE 3. JIM AND MICHELLE CROFT P ‘17 ‘20 ‘22 4. TAKU KOPP, STEVE THOMPSON P ’23 ‘27 5. REBECCA AND MICHAEL NUTTER P ‘18 ‘21 ‘23 6. ARTS PREMIERE LIVE AUCTION BIDDING

SPRING/SUMMER 2014 • 19

CELEBRATIONS

ABBEY SLEE, STEPHANIE STOVER, LAURA COOKE ‘90 P’21 ‘21 ‘24 ‘27

One Wellington. One Fantastic Day. On May 1, The Wellington School community raised over $136,000 with 262 new gifts, increased our parent participation by 20%, and nearly doubled alumni participation in the Annual Fund.

KATIE KUTTRUS ‘23, SPENCER RIESER ‘17

support the school by giving back. “Philanthropy is a good practice,” he said. “Especially if it goes towards your school. I definitely recommend that students donate when they can.”

Annual Fund donations go directly to support our students as they discover and develop their unique potential. Last year, through the generosity of our school community, we used annual fund dollars to provide our students with new bleachers for the Gard gym, iPads, new books, classroom materials, and much more.

This year two Wellington students showed their Jaguar pride by donating their own money to the Annual Fund. Third grader Katie Kuttrus ran a Thank you to all the parents, students, friends, faculty, and staff of The booth with a friend at Arts Fest in May and contributed her earnings to Wellington School for their steadfast belief in the future fearless leaders the fund because she thought “it would be really nice for Wellington.” of the world.

Freshman Spencer Rieser worked at a part-time job and wanted to

Leadership Society

Members of the Leadership Society were invited to an exclusive reception at the home of Scott and Kerstin Humphrys P ’20 ’22 as a special thank you for their substantial support in helping each Wellington student cultivate his or her unique potential. Attendees enjoyed the musical stylings of the Wellington Blue Notes.

The Leadership Society recognizes those donors who invest an annual gift of at least $1,800 per year to The Wellington School.

For more information, please contact the Development Office at development@wellington.org.

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ALL SCHOOL

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Wellington’s Grand-est Day Wellington welcomed more than 400 visitors for our annual Grandparents and Special Friends Day. A tradition dating back to the school’s opening, the day is dedicated to giving Wellington grandparents and special friends an insider’s look at student life in all three divisions. The morning began with a continental breakfast in the Borror Gym as visitors were welcomed by Assistant Head of School Laura Cooke ’90 P ’21 ’21 ’24 ’27 and Student Body President Mallory Tannous ’14. The 2014 Grandparents and

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Special Friends Day Chairs Robert and Susan Thompson spoke about their own favorite Wellington moments with their grandchildren and how much the school has meant to their family. A program highlighting the great work students had been involved in this year was followed by classroom visits where attendees were able to learn more about a day in the life of a Wellington student.

The day provided a great opportunity for grandparents and special friends to explore Wellington.

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56 6 PICTURED: 1. EMMA COOKE ’24, JEFF WILKINS, SPENCER WILKINS ‘24 2. 2014 GRANDPARENTS AND SPECIAL FRIENDS DAY CHAIRS ROBERT AND SUSAN THOMPSON 3. LAURA COOKE ’90 P ’21 ’21 ’24 ’27, MALLORY TANNOUS ’14 4. DONNA EARL, MAX WING ’18 5. PAT COLEMAN, QUINN COLEMAN ‘16 6. MARJE GAREK, CHARLOTTE PARKES ’26 SPRING/SUMMER SPRING 2014 • 21

CELEBRATIONS

Wellington Is the Art of It All The second annual Wellington Arts Fest was a fun celebration for the entire school community.

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The school was magically transformed into a stunning, artful wonderland for more than 250 attendees. Student work filled the halls as families and friends traveled down a path lined with activity booths encouraging children to create their own souvenir masterpieces.

A talent show in the Jaguar Commons showcased Wellington students’ performing arts abilities with singing, music, dancing, and even a presentation on asteroids.

Marketplace booths in the Gard Gym allowed students to express their entrepreneurial spirit by selling candles, flowers, baked goods, tutus, headbands, bracelets, earrings, sandy candy, tennis balls with faces, hair bows, and hair wraps. Old-fashioned carnival games were also included for the festival circuit purists.

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The day also marked the grand unveiling and installation of the sculpture designed in collaboration between visiting guest artist Michael Liscano and lower and middle school students. Art teachers Gina Spicer P ’24 ’26 and Jayne Young were on hand as well to bravely assist the dedicated young artists in less than ideal weather conditions.

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A silent auction of student artwork helped raise money, in addition to funds from Arts Premiere, to supplement materials used to further explore the arts. A very special thank you to Arts Fest sponsor Dr. Christopher Hyer of Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center. The day also would not have been the terrific success it was without the help of many incredible volunteers, including the following: Stephanie Hyer – Event Chair, Defne Kocak, Gina Jacobs Thomas, Kristie Hale, Tracey Noritz, Daphne Meimaridis, Jen Tonapi, Kim Clark, Jen Thompson

6 PICTURED: 1. ARTS FEST ORGANIZERS AND THEIR CHILDREN 2. GINA SPICER P ’24 ’26, GINA JACOBS THOMAS P ’24 ‘27 3. WILLIAM RIGNEY-CAROL ’24, XAVIER BAILEY ’24, ARVIN TONAPI ’24 4. EMMA FAHLGREN ’22, ELLA MARSHALL ’22, MADDIE FAHLGREN ’22 5. MACY CROFT ’22, JESSICA SEITZ ‘22 6. 2013 ARTS PREMIERE VISITING GUEST ARTIST AND STUDENT COLLABORATION SCULPTURE 22 • WELLINGTON MAGAZINE

Humphrys Put Wellington on the Road to Success

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ellington Jaguars will travel around town with greater ease now thanks to the generous gifting of two vans from Scott and Kerstin Humphrys P ’20 ’22. Longtime supporters of Wellington’s mission to help students pursue their passions, the Humphrys care deeply about making a positive impact on the school community.

“We have always worked with the staff to identify the most pressing needs of the school,” Scott said. “Sometimes we have made unrestricted gifts, others have been specific. Wellington is a special place

that is just now beginning to realize its potential. Every gift, no matter the amount, is important. However, major gifts are those that enable large initiatives to move forward. The faculty does amazing things with the resources they have. We need to help them do more.”

The Humphrys have been creating wonderful Wellington memories since their children, Will ’20 and Katie ’22, first began attending the school. Kerstin recalled being impressed right from the start with students walking through halls exuding confidence and intelligence as well as a

maturity level like that of adults. Scott was drawn to the closeness of the school community, including strong bonds with parents within each class. With major gifts donated to Wellington, by families like the Humphrys, the school can continue to put students on the fast track to realizing their greatest potential.

“The more we can invest in our own children’s education and the education of bright young individuals,” Kerstin said, “the better this world will be.”

KATIE ‘22, KERSTN, SCOTT, AND WILL ‘20 HUMPHRYS

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CELEBRATIONS

The Gift of The Classroom of The Future “Truly, we believe in education that underscores thought outside of books,” Brian said. “Creativity, freedom of expression, practical lessons generated from classroom work and studies, all emphasize the development of young adults to be willing and eager to face life’s opportunities and obstacles. Wellington provides the education required for the world today.”

BRIAN KELLEHER, ELLIE KELLEHER ‘18, BARBARA RAE

Kellehers Kick Off Project

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he supportive, collegial environment at Wellington has always impressed Brian Kelleher and Barbara Rae P ’18. From the time their daughter Ellie ’18 began at the school in prekindergarten, the Kellehers have appreciated the school’s strong sense of community centered around educating the whole child and using challenging curriculum to encourage students to think for themselves.

Manley Family Invests in the Future

Ted and Carol Manley P ’21 ’24 are committed to investing in Wellington. After deciding on the school for their children Evan ’21 and Gigi ’24 because of its diverse community and forward-thinking curriculum, the Manleys consider giving back a crucial component to Wellington’s success.

“Wellington is really hitting its stride,” Ted said. “Because of its relative youth, it is exciting to invest in Wellington’s development.”

When the school began designing a “Classroom of the Future” to encourage student engagement, the Manleys helped make the project a reality by making a major gift to Wellington.

Their generous donation will help purchase furniture for a new, dynamic learning environment.

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The Kellehers recognized the intrinsic need for learning spaces at the school that exemplify its forward-thinking mission. To continue to be at the forefront of education, Wellington must also continue to evolve as a campus. With the generous financial support of the Kellehers, the school has been able to design a “Classroom of the Future” in which students will work in an environment that promotes more highly engaged learning. With chairs that can easily roll into clusters for small group gatherings and tables with integrated monitors that provide instant access to expert online knowledge, the classroom will closely resemble a 21st century work environment.

Even after the building of the new school, the Kellehers understood the needs of Wellington were not completely met. They wanted to make an additional major gift that would help continue the work and improvement that had started several years ago.

“To quote a friend of mine,” Brian said, “A truly great school needs a truly great facility.’ We hope that others will believe the same, now and in the future.”

“This furniture will add a new dimension to the investment Wellington has already made in building the new school. By making classrooms more agile and better integrated with technology, it will enhance the learning experience of Wellington students. We think it will be a great addition.

Making Wellington a philanthropic priority is satisfying in so many ways.”

GIGI ‘24, TED, EVAN ‘21, AND CAROL MANLEY

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PICTURED: 1. AHMED BU-HAIMED ‘22, AMER ABDELBAKI ’22 2. FIRST GRADERS AT PROM PLEDGE 3. RYLAN CLARK ’26, JAMEELA ASKIRA ’23, CARINA VILLALONA ’23, GEORGIA EDWARDS ’23 AT FATHER DAUGHTER DANCE 4. HALE EDWARDS ’18 5. LISA DORAN P ’14 ’16 ’26, LORI SEITZ P ’17 ’19 ’22 6. FATHER DAUGHTER DANCE ATTENDEES 7. AUDREY UNVERFERTH ’18, WILL MILLER ’21, ZUBIN REYAZI ’21, SARAH ABDELBAKI ‘18 8. LIZZY CHESTER ‘18, ANAS TANTASH ‘18

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ALL SCHOOL

Faculty News Upper School faculty members Kara Conley, Kelly Zavotka, and Maria Baker were presenters at the Ohio Foreign Language Association in April.

Conley and Zavotka presented “Transforming Consumers into Creators through Collaborative Online Publishing” with Wellington senior Quinten Hutchinson. Baker presented “Making it Relevant, Hooking Student Attention.”

BAKARI BROWN ‘16, MICHELLE NEELY

Cornell University Recognizes History Teacher Sara Brdar

Wellington Named Top Workplace for Second Straight Year

The Wellington School was again named a Top Workplace by Columbus CEO Magazine and 10TV.

Middle School science teacher Cristen Healy won a scholarship to attend Stone Laboratory this summer, the oldest freshwater biological field station in the United States and the center of Ohio State’s teaching and research on Lake Erie.

Upper School history teacher and Department Chair Sara Brdar P ’02 ’03 was recently recognized by Cornell University student and Wellington alumnus Nick Vasko ’11 as the secondary teacher who has made the most significant contribution to his education.

Lower School teachers Debra Parkes P ’26 ’28 and Gina Spicer P ’24 ’26 presented a session titled “Art, Technology, Social Studies, and Language Arts Integrations using Gamestar Mechanic” at the annual Ohio Educational Technology Conference in February.

Brdar, who has taught at Wellington for 18 years, was deeply touched by the honor and considered it a huge compliment. “You don’t always immediately know the impact you have on a student. When you receive news like this, it’s tremendously gratifying.”

Middle School social studies teacher Berc Backhurst received a 2014 Golden Apple Award from the Upper Arlington Civic Association.

“Berc Backhurst is an innovative, collaborative, and dynamic teacher who constantly strives to provide unique learning experiences for his students,” said Middle School Head Erin Noviski. “His innovative teaching methods foster students’ empathy for others as well as develop creative confidence through product design. Berc is a big thinker who has had an immensely positive influence on The Wellington School community.”

26 • WELLINGTON MAGAZINE

The Top Workplaces were determined based solely on employee feedback in the form of a survey conducted by WorkplaceDynamics, LLP, a leading research firm on organizational health and employee engagement.

Wellington’s world-class faculty expressed pride in the school community because it offers encouragement and support for teachers to be creative in the classroom as well as building meaningful connections with students. Upper school chemistry teacher Aaron Frim P ’19 had been working with his department to revamp the curriculum and credited the backing of the Wellington administration and the enthusiasm from his colleagues with making the process rewarding and exciting.

“I definitely feel valued,” Frim said. “It’s an amazing opportunity as an educator to work at Wellington.”

Wellington Students Move Up In the World

M KATIE HUMPHRYS ‘22, MADDIE FAHLGREN ‘22

oving Up is a special day for Wellington 4th and 8th graders as they bid a fond farewell to one division and are ceremoniously accepted into the next. On the same day as senior graduation, students in Lower and Middle School participate in their own type of commencement in the Gard Gym.

At the 4th grade program, Head of School Robert Brisk P ’13 ’15 congratulated the Class of 2022 on taking their first steps to fulfilling their potential. He also spoke about the heart of every great school is the faculty and staff before presenting the Horace Mann Award to Lower School art teacher Gina Spicer P ’24 ’26.

Fourth graders shared their favorite memories. Camping trips, class plays, and grand playground adventures were among the tales told from their time in the Lower School. Head of Lower School Jill Webb spoke about being “normal” in middle school and the importance of deciding for oneself what that means. Head of Middle School Erin Noviski welcomed the class into their new division and the 4th grade teaching team handed out certificates to their proud students.

The 8th grade ceremony began with an address from Noviski in which she looked back on the varied accomplishments of the Class of 2018, including service projects, talent shows, and academic pursuits. She urged students to continue working on their growth mindset over the summer and think of strategies to overcome obstacles.

HAILEY HOGAN ‘18, BENJAMIN HAWKINS ‘18

Brisk presented the Diann and John Yakscoe Award to Middle School science teacher Cristen Healy and the 8th grade teaching team handed out awards to students for their accomplishments in athletics, arts, academics, and service. Audrey Unverferth ’18 delivered the address for the ceremony in which she thanked her classmates for their acts of kindness and encouraged them to continue to be thoughtful and considerate of one another.

Lizzy Chester ’18 and Anas Tantash ’18 provided humorous introductions for presenters as students shared their favorite middle school memories and thanked their teachers for all their support and fun times through the years. After 8th graders were presented with certificates, Noviski said that she couldn’t wait to see what the next year would hold for them.

The Moving Up ceremonies for both divisions were touching remembrances of past accomplishments as well as celebrations of what is to come.

LEFT TO RIGHT: AUDREY UNDERFERTH ‘18, JYOTSNA SREENIVASAN; ERIN NOVISKI, JESSIE SEITZ ‘22; ROBERT BRISK P ‘13 ‘15; SHELLING BOWLING P ‘19, ALEXANDER WILKINS ‘22; JACQUIE SIERZPUTOWSKI ‘18, ERIN NOVISKI

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ALL SCHOOL

Prom Pledge

Prom Pledge is an annual tradition in which Wellington celebrates community by inviting some of its youngest students to advise the oldest.

First graders, dressed in their best prom apparel, performed before the entire upper school and then shared words of wisdom for their exciting evening ahead. Each junior and senior received a Prom Pledge booklet written and illustrated by the lower schoolers with tips on how to have a fun and safe night with their friends.

RIGHT: MALLORY TANNOUS ‘14, ASHER BIEHN ‘25 BELOW: FIRST GRADERS AT PROM PLEDGE.

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ADVICE INCLUDED:

Hug your date.

Use good manners.

BRYAN STEWART ‘95 P ‘27, ANNA STEWART ‘27

EDDY LOTT P ‘22 ‘24, JEFF HASKETT P ‘19 ‘20 ‘22

Don’t step on anybody’s toes.

Dress up fancy.

Give flowers to your date.

Brush your teeth for two minutes.

Don’t dance on the table.

Take a shower so you don’t smell bad.

LEXI STONER ‘25, RYLAN CLARK ‘26, CHARLOTTE PARKES ‘21

Father Daughter Dinner Dance

Wellington’s Father Daughter Dinner Dance was held at Heritage Country Club in February. The annual event was sponsored by the Wellington Parent Association and gave dads and daughters of all ages a memorable evening together dining and dancing in a beautiful setting. Special thanks to Chris Cooke P ’21 ’21 ’24 ’27 and Doug Anderson P ’15 ’20, as well as all the parent volunteers, for organizing this lovely night.

ABOVE: MADJO HYZDU ‘16, CHARIS NANDOR ‘15, NATALIE TWITCHELL ‘15, SYDNEY SNOW ‘15, MOLLY ANDERSON ‘15 , CASEY HANSEN ‘15

We Salute You, Wellington Volunteers!

KITTY YOUNG P ’01 ’12, WENDY MORSE P ’09 ’11 ’11 ’14, KERRII ANDERSON P ’11 ’14

Wellington Mothers’ Dinner

The hard work and dedication of many volunteers make Wellington the extraordinary school it is today. Whether planning Arts Fest, shelving books in the Abbott Family Learning Center, or organizing a used uniform sale, parents and friends of Wellington provide immeasurable support for all members of the school community. Volunteers enjoyed a delicious breakfast in the Thomas Family Dining Room where they were celebrated and lauded by Head of School Robert Brisk P ’13 ’15, faculty, and administration with the world premiere of Brisk’s tribute song “Volunteers, You Are Here!” Raffle prizes were awarded to attendees as further appreciation for their invaluable contribution to Wellington. Thank you, volunteers, for your tireless devotion to our great school!

The annual Wellington Mothers’ Dinner was held at Brookside Country Club in February. Open to Wellington mothers from all grade levels, the event is dedicated to celebrating the amazing women in our school community.

Attendees enjoyed delightful conversation over a delicious dinner and may have left with a fabulous gift basket raffle item. Many thanks to the wonderful Wellington mothers that put the fabulous event together, including committee chairs Ashley Borgemenke P ’15, Missy Fite ’13 ’15, and Deidre Winkle ’13 ’15.

28 • WELLINGTON MAGAZINE

FACULTY AND STAFF PERFORM FOR VOLUNTEERS

No Passport Required at Wellington’s International Week Wellington celebrated art, history, and culture from around the world during International Week.

Students learned about countries from Argentina to Zimbabwe in January with classes and activities focused on all things international. Dress-up day allowed everyone the chance to express their global pride by wearing clothing related to a country of their choice.

Food was an important component to the festivities. Upper school students created a mock French village in which 1st graders could test their language skills while sampling the culinary delights of a different country. Middle school students ran their own International Festival in which selected countries like Peru and Belgium were presented to students, faculty, and parents along with delicious treats related to what they had learned through their research.

Fourth graders also did their part by singing “V’là l’Bon Vent” at the Upper School morning meeting on Friday. It was a darling “au revoir” to International Week at Wellington.

RYAN WISE ‘18

Did You Fund A Need?

The names of Wellington community members who supported Fund A Need through Arts Premiere 2013 are now recognized on a wall in the Thomas Family Dining Room. Examples of Fund A Need include scholarships and financial aid, student engagement grants, and campus renovations. All donations directly support Wellington students discovering and developing their unique potential.

Wellington Geo Bee Lower School Geo Bee Finalists include: Jake Browning ’22 – Second place Matt Hatheway ’22 – Third place Katie Humphrys ‘22 Braylon Liggins ‘22 Rahul Rajaram ’23 – First place Alana Sayat ‘23 Taj Vasudeva ‘22 An annual competition for which lower and middle school students spend several weeks preparing, the Wellington Geography Bee used verbal as well as map-based questions and answers to test geographical knowledge.

Preliminary rounds were first held in the classroom to determine who would then compete in the Wellington final.

Elliot Roth ’21 – Third place Aquila Simmons ‘20 Alain Welliver ‘21 Ali Winter ‘20 Fifth grader Isaac Brown went on to win the Wellington final and then competed at the regional, qualifying for the statewide competition.

Middle School Geo Bee Finalists include: Isaac Brown ’21 – First place Micah Burkart ‘20 Elowen Conley ‘21 Adam Conselyea ‘18 Christine Cooke ‘21 Kolapo Dairo ’18 – Second place

SPRING/SUMMER SPRING 2014 • 29

ALL SCHOOL

Family Style FEARLESS LEARNING

W

ellington’s strong sense of family resonates deeply with all members of our community. Now, 31 years after first opening the school, many alumni have chosen a Wellington education for their own children as well. The 2013-14 school year marked the highest enrollment of second generation Jaguars in history.

For graduates like Alison (Liebert) Wooldridge ‘93, Wellington has grown in size and technological advancement but has kept the core values and traditions she remembered from her 11 years here. She believed that her sons Andrew ’24 and Nicholas ’26 would get the best possible start in their education by attending her alma mater. Now, Wooldridge enjoys the school through the loving eyes of a parent.

“It is fun being a Wellington parent,” she said.

“I love all the ways parents are involved with all aspects of Wellington. It has been a great experience and my boys love school. That to me is the ultimate test of their happiness.”

Many alumni want their children to share the wonderful memories they had at Wellington.

30 • WELLINGTON MAGAZINE

“I wanted them to have the same happy experience I had,” Anneliese (Bohm) Adkinson ‘91 said.

For Class of 1996 members Bice (Garcia) and Bob Dolciato ’96, Wellington represents family in a very literal sense. The two met here as students before going on to marry and have children. They chose Wellington for its small class size and highly individualized instruction methods. The strong sense of community, in which everyone knows each other’s name, was another major factor in their decision to introduce their children Adriana ’22, Marissa ’24, and Michael ’27 to life as a Jaguar.

“Our children love hearing stories about how Wellington used to be,” the Dolciatos said. “We even chuckle watching Lower School plays in the BPAC, which was our gymnasium in middle school.”

Bice and Bob marvel at Wellington’s expansion both in size and scope as a center of innovative learning. Their greatest joy, though, comes from seeing the smiles on their children’s faces each morning as they begin their day at Wellington.

2013-2014 JAG, JR.’S: David Farber ‘28 Lucia Geigel ‘28 Lincoln Otcasek ‘28 Samuel Parkes ‘28 – not pictured Anna Stewart ‘27 Parker Brown ‘27 Casey Chaudhari ‘27 Elizabeth Cooke ‘27 – not pictured Michael Dolciato ‘27 River Kaser ‘27 Holden Adkinson ‘26 Asha Chaudhari ‘26 Lucy Wilkins ‘26 Nicholas Wooldridge ‘26 Charlie Parkes ‘26 Donovan Otcasek ‘25 Andrew Wooldridge ‘24 Emma Cooke ‘24 Spencer Wilkins ‘24 Marissa Dolciato ‘24 Mac Ross ‘24 Lilliana Adkinson ‘23 Alexander Wilkins ‘22 Adriana Dolciato ‘22 Anne Spears ‘21 Caroline Cooke ‘21 Christine Cooke ‘21 Kiersten Ross ‘19 David Swaddling ‘14

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PICTURED: 1. MIA WEAVER ’22, AYLA KOCAK ’24, TAYLOR HARPER ’22, ALINA WEAVER ’22 2. KAYLEI JOHNSON ’24, BROOKS ADIANSINGH ‘24 3. LEWIS ADAMS ’25, LEXI STONER ’25, ERIN SAMORA ’25 4. RAHUL RAJARAM ’23, JILL WEBB 5. ZACK SAGONE ’23, JACK MCCARTY ’23, EMMA GAGE ’23 6. ELIZABETH COOKE ‘27, VIVIAN JOHNSON ‘27

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LOWER SCHOOL

ALEXIS SMITH ‘26

Happy Birthday, Earth!

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ower School celebrated Earth Day by learning and growing in their understanding of eco-responsibility.

SPENCER WILKINS ‘24, GIGI MANLEY ‘24

Students began their day hearing from Wellington parent and landscape architect Dorothee Imbert P ’25. She discussed the thoughtful planning that went into designing beautiful places and showed examples of the great gardens of the world, including Versailles and the Highline in New York City. Imbert also illustrated the breakdown of water usage by country, with the United States far surpassing the rest of the world.

Detailing the path of rain to sewers to fish and vegetation, Imbert explained how important water is because it affects everything on earth.

Throughout the rest of the day, students participated in various activities to promote mindfulness. They were invited to write down ways in which they could help the earth. Students also used old materials to create something beautiful and made acrostic poems. Some classes picked up trash on the playground and tennis courts while others planted flowers and decorated paper bags to be handed out at grocery stores. Upper School students also did their part by visiting French class and delivering a bilingual presentation on the importance of recycling and being responsible eco-citizens.

MARISSA DOLCIATO ‘24

32 • WELLINGTON MAGAZINE

JACK SPICER ‘24

Invention Convention Fascination

Lower school students in kindergarten through 4th grade were invited to participate in the 2014 Wellington Invention Convention and design a solution to a common everyday problem. All the young inventors received high scores for showing creativity, problem-solving skills, understanding of the design process, and communication skills.

Congratulations to all the participants for their hard work and ingenuity.

Representing The Wellington School in the Central Ohio Regional Invention Convention were: Henry Allen ’24 – Sun Glass Spray, which better shields car occupants from the bright sun than just tinted windows. Samson Judd ’22 – Expressions A+, which helps autistic students learn how to interpret facial expressions and gestures. Alexander Wilkins ’22 – Taco Protector, which enables one to eat a taco without it breaking and spilling its contents. Christian Wurapa ’22 – Starfish Band Aid, which is a band aid in the shape of a starfish and works better than regular band aids for those difficult spots, like the end of your finger.

All of the participating Wellington students received high scores in the regional competition, including Christian Wurapa, who received a Superior rating and a prize for his invention.

CHRISTIAN WURAPA ‘22, ANDREW TAYLOR ‘23

Lower School Robotics Tournament Fun for All Wellington Lower School students brought great enthusiasm and cheer to the robotics tournament in April. Participating teams had to problem solve as they led their robots through the maze without touching any of the walls. While many teams had accomplished that during their preparation for the contest, some teams encountered problems during the actual competition and had to show resilience as they worked through the new problems encountered. All teams were congratulated for their hard work.

AMER ABDELBAKI ‘22, TAJ VASUDEVA ‘22, RAAGHUV VAZIRANI ’22

The resulting places at the competition were: FIRST PLACE: Rahul Rajaram, George Bernard, Kyler Sydney Sanders, and Evan Rayburn (3rd graders) SECOND PLACE: Amer Abdelbaki, Raaghuv Vazirani, and Taj Vasudeva (4th graders) THIRD PLACE: Jake Browning, Tim Alexandrov, and Julian Dean (4th graders) FOURTH PLACE: Allison Klingler, Max Winter, and Vincent Kerler (3rd graders) FIFTH PLACE: Christian Wurapa, Liam Ross, and Adriana Dolciato (4th graders) tied with Clara Evans, Saanvi Billakanty, and Liesel Goldfarb (4th graders)

SPRING/SUMMER 2014 • 33

LOWER SCHOOL

Lower School Playwright’s Theatrical Debut

The 30th Annual Child Writing Project encouraged local students to submit their work to the Columbus Children’s Theater. Wellington 4th grader Alina Weaver’s story “The Gingerbread Man Returns” was selected from more than 1,000 entries to be dramatized in a collection of student works titled “Happily Ever After.”

“The Gingerbread Man Returns” was a hilariously touching tale of the fabled cookie tackling the tricky territory of asking a Gingerbread Girl out on a date. After giving himself a confidence-boosting talk, the Gingerbread Man worked up the nerve to ask and received a sweet surprise in return.

Wellington Student Wins Grand Prize for LEGO Design

Sarim Siddiqui ‘22 won the grand prize for his age category in the Columbus Museum of Art 2013 LEGO Design Challenge.

Participants in the contest had their work displayed in the museum for visitors to vote. Siddiqui’s award-winning piece was a violin and bow constructed entirely out of LEGOs.

Students Make Blankets and Books for Refugees Lower School students learned about the refugee experience and worked together making blankets and books for those in need.

MARY BETH PARKER

CATHERINE CARTMELL ‘25

Wellington parent and Executive Director of Community and Refugee and Immigration Services (CRIS) Angie Plummer P ’20 ’22 spoke to students in the morning about her work helping refugees from around the world find safe homes. She explained what a refugee is and the conditions that they have to endure in camps, sometimes for many years, before they can eventually settle permanently in a country like the United States. Plummer shared her own experience visiting a camp in Uganda where she saw a lot of children taking care of other children.

“Be thankful every day that you have the opportunity to go to school,” she said. “Many children in the world don’t.”

Throughout the day, classes took turns working together assembling blankets for refugees recently settled in Columbus and creating books for children in camps learning English. The project encouraged students to feel empowered to make a difference in the world.

34 • WELLINGTON MAGAZINE

2 PICTURED: 1. MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS SEE THE FUTURE OF DESIGN. 2. EVAN ALBERS ’19 3. SYDNEY WURAPA ’18 4. SEDERA GREEN ’20, ELLIE WEINBERG ’20 5. FIFTH GRADERS WELCOME COLUMBUS GLOBAL ACADEMY. 6. SEAN COREY, JOSH WOODELL ’20, BEN MARSHALL ’20 7. KAWIN MARYALA ’19 8. EIGHTH GRADE ARCHEOLOGY DIG

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MIDDLE SCHOOL

Sixth Grade Research Projects

Wellington students have countless opportunities to use what they learn in class to further explore their own passions. The Science Independent Research Projects (SIRP) conducted by 6th graders allows students to choose a topic of interest to them and research its cultural, historical, and scientific elements. Using the scientific method, students first develop a hypothesis and then conduct experiments to complement their research.

This year students used a variety of methods to present their findings, including PowerPoint and live demonstrations. Topics ran the gamut from figuring out which brands of ice cream melt the fastest to which types of wood are softer than others. One student built his very own radio while another balanced the tricky task of testing skateboard wheels.

HAILIE CLARK ‘21, GRACE KELLICKER ‘21, ERIC CATHALA ‘21, BENNETT OBENOUR ‘21

The process of testing their ideas, through trial and error, allowed these 6th graders to discover their greatest potential.

ELLA GRANT ‘20

BEN SIERZPUTOWSKI ’19

Middle School’s Got Talent

KATE HANS ‘20

Emceed by 8th graders Brad Biehl and Anas Tantash, the Wellington Middle School Talent Show highlighted the varied gifts of middle school students. Music was popular, with performances ranging from classical piano and harp to contemporary hits played on the violin and electric guitar.

A capella singing and classical dance were also beautifully executed for the program. First place was awarded to Ben Sierzputowski ‘19, second place went to Sydney Wurapa ‘18, and Ainsley Nutter ‘21 nabbed third.

ROWAN NUTTER ‘18 36 • WELLINGTON MAGAZINE

Middle East Day

Several years ago, Middle School language arts teacher Marianne Crowley wanted to bring her classes’ study of the Middle East closer to home. While 6th graders learned about the history of the region in social studies, Crowley assigned students books to read that were set in the Middle East as a way of helping them better understand the culture. She then began organizing one day a year completely focused on giving 6th graders hands-on lessons in the history, art, and culture of this foreign land.

This year, with the generous help of parent volunteers, Middle East Day was at its grandest.

Students moved from classroom to classroom where they designed 3-D Islamic shapes and patterns, participated in trivia games, and observed a henna demonstration. They heard from guest speaker and Wellington parent Marwan Tantash P ’18 ’20 about the significance of Abraham to Islam and indulged in a delicious sampling of foods from the region.

“This day really brings the Middle East to life for these kids,” Crowley said. “They get a better picture of how culturally rich our world is because of the Islamic influences.”

ABOVE: SERENE ABDELBAKI ‘20, MICAH BURKART ’20 RIGHT: ALEX PARSONS ‘20

Middle School Takes Top Spots at Robotics Challenge Wellington Middle School students placed in top spots at the 2014 OETC STEM Robotics Challenge.

Eight graders Sarah Zimmerman, Brianna Masters, and Sarah Abdelbaki placed first at the 2014 OETC STEM Robotics Challenge. Placing second was a team of 7th graders Sean O’Donovan, Thomas Richter, and Aquila Simmons. Third place went to another team of 7th graders, including Mac Hammett, Declan Ross, and David Lynn.

This event was held at the annual Ohio Educational Technology Conference at the Columbus Convention Center where students participated in a mini competition with other teams in Botball. Students also helped showcase what robotics is all about for teachers attending the conference and visiting their booth.

Under the leadership of technology teacher Helen McConaghy, coaches Dave Nye and Monique Sierzputowski P ‘17 ‘18 ‘19, Wellington’s 11 teams of 32 students in 5th-8th grades competed at The National Robotics Challenge in Marion, Ohio in April. The competition featured many schools, challenges, and students from elementary through college age. Wellington took 7 Sumo teams and 4 Botball teams.

The Middle School Mini-Sumo event is one of the biggest challenges at the competition. Competition was fierce this year with 68 teams competing from all over the state. The 7th grade team of Sean O’Donovan, Ian Frim, and Ben Sierzputowski made it to the final four before losing to the team that later won the competition.

Eighteen teams competed in Botball with higher scores occurring in the middle school division than the high school division. The team of 7th grade team Jacob Sayat, Jackson Beggs and Alfonso Botta-Lopez placed sixth in the competition followed by seventh and eighth place finishes by two other Wellington teams. Most importantly, all the teams supported each other, had fun, and came back with new ideas for their robot builds and strategies for next year.

A very special thank you to all the parents who helped out in the students’ success, including the Lynn family for providing robotics shirts for all the students and Hank Gleissner P ’20 for helping to supervise after school practices.

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MIDDLE SCHOOL

Math Counts in Middle School This winter the Middle School made school history with a superb showing in the regional and state level MathCounts competitions. MathCounts is an extremely well-regarded national math program similar to the National Spelling Bee, or National Geography Bee. Students in grades 6, 7 and 8 compete by solving highly challenging word problems as individuals and as a school team.

Wellington parent Dr. Tian P ’18 voluntarily worked with the MathCounts Club (7th and 8th graders) after school on a weekly basis for several months offering his expertise in advanced problem solving methodology. Students also practiced with Middle School math teacher Mark Rodgers P ’16 during the school day to introduce the younger students (6th and 7th graders) to the national problem solving competition. In February, the team placed second out of 45 teams from the Central Ohio chapter competition, thereby qualifying for the state tournament for the first time in Wellington history. In March Wellington placed fifth in the state out of the 40 top teams. Wellington was by far the smallest school, and the only independent school in Ohio, to place at the state level. In addition Randy Yan ’18 placed 11th in the state, narrowly missing a chance to represent Ohio at the national MathCounts competition in Orlando, FL. Grace Tian ’18 placed a very impressive 24th place out of a field of over 200 of the state’s top Middle School math students.

Congratulations to all the participants: Kolapo Dairo ’18, RJ Maryala ’18, Rose Nandor ’19, Milan Parikh ’19 Aquila Simmons ’19, Grace Tian ’18 (not pictured), Rohit Vallabhaneni ’18, Randy Yan ’18

Wellington Students Take the Lead

Wellington’s Tech Fires Earns Top Ten Finish at Global Innovation Awards Wellington’s FIRST LEGO League team earned a top 10 finish out of 547 submissions from 27 countries in this year’s Global Innovation Award Contest. Their innovative solution for the early detection of wildfires earned them free submission to Edison Nation, where their idea will undergo a review process which includes competitive landscape, initial IP review, and considerations for development, materials, and analysis of cost/value relationship. In addition, they will be published in a Q&A section of Inventor’s Digest. Members of the team included: Ian Gleissner ’20, Matthew Reid ’21, William Reid ’20, Max Windl ’21, Ben Sierzputowski ’19, Will Sierzputowski ’17.

The Breath of Life in Middle School Fifth graders, having recently studied anatomy, were given a memorable lesson in pathology from Wellington parent and OSU Clinical Assistant Professor Dr. Tisha Farrell P ’21 ’21. Science teacher Cristen Healy invited Farrell to speak and further expand students’ knowledge of the digestive and respiratory systems with firsthand exploration of a pair of human lungs with the trachea and heart attached.

Students were invited to touch and examine the hardest working organs of the body as Farrell led the dissection, explaining the function of each part.

Reactions from students ran the gamut from wondrous 38 • WELLINGTON MAGAZINE

awe to squeamish reticence, but everyone was eager to get closer.

“It’s squishy like a rubber ducky,” a student proclaimed after feeling the specimen for the first time.

Farrell was impressed with how much 5th graders knew about the respiratory system and encouraged them to look closely at the color, shape, and size of the organs just like real pathologists. By the end of the class, students were making astute observations about their specimen and the roles of scientists and doctors were brought to life.

Middle School Play an “Olympiaganza” of Talent Familiar favorite tales from the ancient world were dramatized to great comic effect by Middle School students in the hilarious “Olympiaganza.” Two battling narrators attempt to cover the entirety of Greek mythology using audience participation and theatrical insanity. Famous myths jostle for space with obscure myths, culminating in a bizarre, musical dance-influenced version of “The Iliad” complete with a full-scale battle of little green army men.

Equal dashes of feminist criticism and pop culture references make for a delightful retelling of some of the oldest stories we know, proving that the classics never go out of style. “Olympiaganza” was a wild and silly ride for audiences of all ages.

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PICTURED: 1.ELLIE WEINBERG ’20, REAGAN KADLIC ’20, WILL MILLER ’21, NICHOLSON BAIRD ’19, ANDREW DAVIS ’19, SARAH ABDELBAKI ’18, ANDREW HARABURDA ‘19 2. CAROLINE COOKE ’21, CHRISTINA ARMENI ’18, MEGAN JOHNSON ’19, ELOWEN CONLEY ’21, NICHOLAS BAIRD ‘19 3. RYAN WISE ’18, ANDREW DAVIS ’19, KATE HANS ’20 4. ZUBIN REYAZI ’21, WILL MILLER ’21, ELLA GRANT ’20 5. NATHAN HAY ’19, ROSE NANDOR ’19 6. CLAIRE O’SHAUGHNESSY ’20, MILAN PARIKH ’19 7. ISAAC BROWN ’21, CARINA DISON ’21

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MIDDLE SCHOOL

Courtney Roy Remembered T

his winter Wellington lost a dear member of our family, 7th grader Courtney Roy. She was an inspiration to students and teachers alike as she bravely fought the cancer that eventually took her life.

In May, a memorial bench was dedicated in Courtney’s name. At the ceremony, middle schoolers spoke about the profound impact she had on their lives and shared favorite memories. Courtney’s

twin brother William spoke poignantly about the special moments he shared with his sister, including long rides in the back of their family car to vacations in Michigan.

“We are all better off for having Courtney in our lives,” he said in closing.

The 7th and 8th grade choir sang a beautiful tribute before students, faculty, family, and friends attended a reception in her honor. Courtney’s legacy of dignity and courage to maintain a normal life in spite of the unthinkable circumstances she endured will not be forgotten.

Courtney Roy will always remain a part of Wellington.

MEMORIES OF COURTNEY “Courtney loved being with her family and friends, and loved going to Wellington. She understood it was always important to leave a place, situation, or friendship better than how she found it. She did that by making lasting friendships; by sharing things with others that made them laugh, think, and feel; by kind words and kind acts. She was able to do all of that at Wellington.” – TAMERA ROY P ’19 “It is hard to describe how deeply she touched everyone, teachers and students, in the all too short time she was with us. The picture of Courtney that stays in my mind is of her smiling. She embraced life with joy and enthusiasm, and it was infectious. The other thing about Courtney that really sticks with me is her love for her twin brother William. She was his mother hen, in the nicest way.” – MIDDLE SCHOOL ENGLISH TEACHER MARIANNE CROWLEY “Courtney was always happy and always smiling! She brought joy to all those around her.

She was a role model for her peers, and they were drawn to her as someone strong, gentle, and kind.” – MIDDLE SCHOOL SPANISH TEACHER JENNIFER JUPP “Courtney was a calm and kind presence in our community. She was a friend to all, and her peers knew her as someone they could always count on - be it an ear for listening, a shoulder to cry on, or a smile to brighten the day. As a student, Courtney was extremely organized, and never just did the minimum requirements - she always went above and beyond until she felt she had done the best she could. We miss her greatly.”

– HEAD OF MIDDLE SCHOOL ERIN NOVISKI 40 • WELLINGTON MAGAZINE

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PICTURED: 1.SENIOR DINNER AT THE OHIO THEATRE 2. MARGARET MEEKS ’17 3. PROM 2014 4. SOPHIE BARBOUR ’17 5. AMBER JOHNSON ’14, LUCY CABORN ’14, SHARON ZHOU ’14 6. BECCA VRABEL ’14, DONNETTE COX ‘14 7. REDD INGRAM ’17 8. UPPER SCHOOL CHOIR 9. JANANI APPALA ‘17 10. HONORS PHYSICS BUILDS BRIDGES.

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Honors Convocation Highlights CUM LAUDE SOCIETY Zoe Case ’14 Abby Fleeter ’14 Josh Roseler ’14 Grayson Ashby ’14 Anne Hulthen ’14 Amelia Palmer ’14 Tova Seltzer ’14 Emma Steele ’14 Mallory Tannous ’14 Sarah Wakeman ’14 Dawning Welliver ’14 Casey Hansen ’15 Peter Tian ’15 Natalie Twitchell ’15 Lillian Tyack ’15

THE ELIZABETH RICHMOND ENGLISH AWARD Zoe Case ’14 THE ELIZABETH RICHMOND ENGLISH AWARD Tova Seltzer ’14 THE SAM STEWART HISTORY AWARD Nia Kaudo ’14 THE MATHEMATICS AWARD Quinten Hutchison ’14 THE MUSIC AWARD Dawning Welliver ’14

THE DRAMA AWARD Zoe Case ’14

THE RENAISSANCE AWARD Zoe Case ’14

THE CAROL GOLDSMITH SCIENCE AWARD Grayson Ashby ’14

THE BORROR AWARD Josh Roseler ’14

THE ART AWARD Amber Johnson ’14 THE ACKERMAN AWARD Em Hammett ’14 THE WELLINGTON PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION GOOD CITIZENSHIP AWARD Lillian Tyack ’14 THE RICHARD J. O’HARA ENDOWED AWARD Natalie Twitchell ’15 THE WILLIAMS COLLEGE BOOK AWARD Lucie Kirk ’16 THE CONNECTICUT COLLEGE BOOK AWARD Natalie Twitchell ’15 THE PRINCETON PRIZE Casey Hansen ’15 THE HARVARD BOOK PRIZE Peter Tian ’15

THE GEORGE W. STEWART AWARD FOR COURAGE Zoe Case ’14 Donnette Cox ’14 THE BROWN FAMILY BROTHERHOOD AWARD Em Hammett ’14 THE SCHOLAR/ATHLETE AWARD Grayson Ashby ’14 Abby Fleeter ’14 THE HOLLAND FOUNDER’S TROPHY Mallory Tannous ’14 THE RUSCILLI AWARD Gab Smith ’14 THE BOHM/BLANCHARD AWARD Josh Roseler ’14

THE 10TH OBJECTIVE AWARD Amelia Palmer ’14 Tova Seltzer ’14 THE FACULTY AWARD Michael Doran ’14 Lincoln Ficek ’14 Quinten Hutchison ’14 Shabach Tyus ’14 Dawning Welliver ’14 THE NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM Zoe Case ’14 Anne Hulthen ’14 Nia Kaudo ’14 Josh Roseler ’14 Tova Seltzer ’14 Emily Swartz ’14 Dawning Welliver ’14 Henry Bacha ’15 Ryan Connor ’15 Charis Nandor ’15 Peter Tian ’15 Natalie Twitchell ’15

THE MINOT TROPHY Hunter Powell ’14 THE PATIL-CHAUDHARI FAMILY TROPHY Emma Steele ’14

Senior Independent Projects Reveal New Insight The Senior Independent Project (SIP) is a culmination of Wellington students discovering, exploring, and developing their passions.

Seniors are encouraged to pursue an area of interest and formulate an essential question to answer through targeted research.

This year, students investigated a variety of topics, including social issues, science and technology, and the arts. Seniors spent time building houses in Mexico and rehabilitating homeless people. They investigated a myriad of uses for nanotechnology in our daily lives.

Students also followed their passion for the arts through portrait photography and music performance.

The SIP process was so inspiring for many seniors that they planned to continue pursuing their topic after graduation.

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ABOVE LEFT: AMBER JOHNSON ‘14; ABOVE RIGHT: SARAH WAYMAN ‘14 BOTTOM: ABBY FLEETER ‘14

Six Word Memoirs

Wellington freshmen faced what seemed a daunting assignment in English class. Teacher Catherine Dison P ’21 asked students to write a “Six Word Memoir” in which they were limited to just a few words and an image to convey themselves.

“It’s an odd task to describe your life in six words,” Redd Ingram ’17 said.

Many students found the assignment challenging at first. “It was difficult explaining myself,” Khalil Jallaq ’17 said. “But after brainstorming with friends and family, I like what I came up with.”

Others were inspired by the vast potential of the project’s constraints.

“The minute I got the assignment, I started thinking,” Liz Kazemi ’17 said. “There’s a side to me that’s an undercover introvert, so I drew a bleeding heart with cracks and covered in fabric because I think we’re all undercover introverts.”

Simone Robinson ’17 was fascinated by the prospect of self-examination.

“It was interesting to look back at my life. I think we all showed a lot of confidence putting ourselves out there.”

CASSIE ROBBINS ‘17, LIZ KAZEMI ‘17, KHALIL JALLAQ ‘17, MADDIE MCCLINCHIE ‘‘17

The powerful, evocative work of these freshmen showed tremendous bravery in its raw honesty.

“I don’t really talk a lot,” Matthew Croft ’17 said. “But I do think a lot. This was a way to illustrate that for others to understand.”

Taylor Adams ’17 didn’t shy away from revealing new parts of herself. “I wanted to discuss something people wouldn’t already know about me.”

Wellington’s 5th Annual Playwright Slam Originally conceived by Upper School English teacher Catherine Dison P ’21 as a fun and inspirational way of highlighting Wellington theatre, the annual Playwright Slam gives budding writers and actors the opportunity to show what they’re made of.

Participants were assigned a line of dialogue, a prop, and two additional conditions to write a script in 24 hours.

Students then had 24 hours to memorize lines and blocking, an additional 24 hours to assemble costumes and props, 3 hours to organize tech, and 5 hours total of rehearsal. It was a whirlwind of creativity as playwrights tackled topics such as friendship, yoga, and college admissions with humor and poignancy.

Senior and veteran playwright/actor Em Hammett organized this year’s production. Bravo to all the talented thespians involved: Lucie Kirk ’16 Lotte Brewer ’15 Zoe Mak ’16 Rachel Carr ’16 Charis Nandor ’15 Zoe Case ’14 Sarah Schmitz ’16 Em Hammett ’14 Tova Seltzer ’14 Anne Hulthen ’14 Lillian Tyack ‘15 MadJo Hyzdu ’16 SPRING/SUMMER 2014 • 43

UPPER SCHOOL

Wellington Casts a Net of Wonder

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ellington’s new Upper School Marine Biology class started off swimmingly this year with students receiving SCUBA training toward their Open Water Certification. Working with dive trainers from Aquatic Adventures, the class prepared for their February trip to Grand Cayman where they had open water checkout dives before exploring the surrounding reefs.

During their dives, both from a boat and also from shore, students visited stingray city where they found themselves surrounded by a large group of friendly stingrays and a very inquisitive moray eel.

They also visit the famed Cayman Wall and spent quality time in the blue waters and diverse reef ecosystems.

While on the six day trip, students learned the history of the island and discussed topics related to coastal ecology. Each evening the class had “Island School” where Upper School Head Dr. Jeff Terwin gave lectures on marine biology and the students had time to work on other “mainland” school work.

To truly experience the beauty of the coast, students also took a sunset kayak trip through the mangroves. It was an amazing experience for these budding marine biologists.

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MALLORY TANNOUS ‘14, NATALIE MORSE ‘14 MARINE BIOLOGY CLASS AND INSTRUCTORS

A Trip to Remember - Mason McIntyre ’15

On May 7, 2014, I took a field trip down to Cincinnati to visit the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. This is a museum that showcases the artifacts and history of the slavery. Having been to museum, I already knew what to expect. The thing is, every time I visit the museum I still find myself fascinated about this dark period of time in American history. To know that as a proud African American we survived decades’ worth of torture and overcame years’ worth of adversity. This museum reminded me how important it is to understand the past in order to understand the future. I never knew how such brave actions in the past paved a way for equality in today’s society.

Gab Smith TedX

Senior Gab Smith was the only high school student featured as a speaker at TEDxColumbusWomen.

Gab shared her insight on becoming the youngest line cook to work in a Cameron Mitchell restaurant and following her dream of restaurant entrepreneurship at the Culinary Institute of America. Scan here to watch.

Wellington Violinist Competes in Prestigious String Quartet Competition Senior Dawning Welliver’s quartet Quatuor Alliance was selected to compete in the finals of the prestigious Saint Paul String Quartet Competition at St. Olaf College in Minnesota.

This competition is one of the highest levels of musical achievement, not unlike the Olympics for an athlete.

Junior Wins State Math Championship

Peter Tian ’15 won the state championship at the Ohio High School Mathematics Invitational Olympiad. The OHMIO consists of a full day of competition beginning with a one-hour individual test that covers all high school math topics including calculus. After lunch the competitors compete in an 8 round ciphering contest. Success here requires a broad knowledge of mathematics and lightning fast computation.

The competition concludes with a team event, where four students from four different schools are put together to compete as a team, testing student skills in both strategy and cooperation. At the end of this stimulating but exhausting day, Tian earned the top overall score against some very tough competition. Tian was also accepted by the Research Science Institute (RSI) of MIT, the most prestigious and competitive math and science summer camp for high school students in the nation with an acceptance rate of about 2%. This Wellington junior seems to have it all figured out.

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“Almost, Maine” Warms Up to Love The perfect play for a cold winter’s night, the Upper School production of “Almost, Maine” explored the lunacy of love in a small town up north. Romantic love in its many incarnations was dramatized through a series of vignettes filled with charmingly authentic characters.

Hearts were broken and sometimes mended. Best friends realized they mean more to each other than previously thought. A married couple struggled to stay close after making room for kids and jobs. A widow paid her respects to a dead husband in an unconventional way.

The characters inhabiting this fictional town were poignantly all too real thanks to the raw performances of the cast. All of the awkwardness of a first declaration of love and the joy of a surprise marriage proposal were brilliantly conveyed by Upper School students.

“Almost, Maine” wrapped its audience up in multiple layers of love.

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PICTURED: 1.CHRIS JONES ’14, LILLIAN TYACK ‘15 2. HALLE ROBERTS ’15, SHABACH TYUS ‘14 3. ALEX TOBIN ‘15 4. WILL TAYLOR ’16, NINA SHAMANSKY ’16, LUCY CABORN ‘14 5. CHARIS NANDOR ‘15, ZACH KAUFFMAN ’15 6. KATE MILLER ’15, ZOE MAK ’16 7. KEILAH CAUSEY ’16, HENRY BACHA ’15

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UPPER SCHOOL

Robotics Team Top Ten in the State

The Wellington Robotics Team competed in the State Championship in February and came in 8th out 28 teams in attendance, placing them in the top 10 in the state. The team also won the Rockwell Collins Award for the most innovative and creative robot design solution to any or all specific field elements or components in the FTC game.

Participating students included: Michael Doran ’14 (not pictured) Hamilton Green ’14 (not pictured) Luke Hogan ’15 Quinten Hutchison ’14 Andy Shepherd ’14 Will Sierzputowski ’17 Ben Smith ’14

Goldsmith Lecturer Encourages Careers in Science

The 2014 Carol Goldsmith Science Lecture was presented by graduate student researcher Kelsey Tinkum.

Carol Goldsmith was Wellington’s first science teacher.

After her passing in 2003, a lecture series was established to honor her deep love for the subject she taught and the profound impact she had on her students. Each year a member from the science community is selected to lecture on his or her area of expertise.

This year’s featured speaker was Kelsey Tinkum. A Ph.D. candidate in molecular cell biology at Washington University in St. Louis, Tinkum was conducting research on cancer treatment. She spoke to students about the various studies she has been involved in to decrease the side effects for patients battling for their lives.

“To treat any disease, you have to understand it,” she said.

“You act like a 4-year-old constantly asking ‘why’ about everything.”

Tinkum explained exactly how cancer affects the human body before detailing her specific area of research. Her passion for the topic was inspiring for the students and faculty members in attendance.

Grinning ear to ear, Tinkum told students, “Science as a profession is really exciting.”

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PICTURED: 1. VARSITY BASEBALL TEAM 2. SOPHIE BARBOUR ’17, SYDNEY SNOW ‘15, ABBEY MAYNE ‘16, DONNETTE COX ‘14, HALLE JEFFERSON ‘16 3. TAFF ANDERSON ‘14, JOE CAMPBELL ‘14, JOSH ROSELER ‘14, TREVOR KAUFMANN ‘16 4. ABBEY MAYNE ‘16, NIA GILL ‘17 5. GIRLS MIDDLE SCHOOL LACROSSE TEAM 6. BEN SLONEKER ’15, NATE BEAM ’16, CASEY WINKLE ’15 7. BOYS VARSITY TENNIS TEAM

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ATHLETICS

The Sweet Sound of Victory at Wellington The tradition of class gifts is time-honored at Wellington.

Students work together organizing a variety of fundraisers so that they may give back to the school in a meaningful way. The Class of 1994 gave the Victory Bell to Wellington and the Class of 2010 contributed the tower.

The official dedication was held in May on Roberts Field.

Upper School English teacher Chis Robbins P ’17 ’22 welcomed attendees and explained the significance of class gifts.

Representatives from the two classes, Jeanna Keinath Weaver ’94 and Chris King ’10, spoke at the ceremony. Weaver told the story of how the bell was purchased from a dealer in Put-in-Bay. Athletic Director Lindsey Smith P ’26 explained that the bell would be rung to celebrate each Wellington team victory.

“The bell represents honor, spirit, and achievement,” Smith said.

LINDSEY SMITH P ‘26, CHRIS ROBBINS P ‘17 ‘22, JEANNA KEINATH WEAVER ’94, CHRIS KING ‘10

wanted to bring that same valuable experience to his fellow players.

“Together as a group,” he said, “we accomplished so much more than any single person could have done. We were all working toward one goal just like we do on the field as a team.”

Wellington teams volunteered for a variety of organizations, ranging from Habitat for Humanity and the Adaptive Adventure Sports Coalition where people with disabilities can participate in outdoor sports such as kayaking and skiing.

BOYS VARSITY BASEBALL TEAM

Teams Bond Over Service

A commitment to community service was a priority this year for Wellington Athletics. Along with helping others and connecting with the outside community, service learning is a terrific team-building experience.

“Taking kids out of their element is important to building character,” Athletic Director Lindsey Smith P ’26 said. “We are developing boys and girls into confident, humble leaders.”

Senior Joe Campbell took the lead on organizing the varsity baseball team’s restoration of the bleechers at Whestone Park. Very close to earning his Eagle Scout badge, Campbell is no stranger to service and 50 • WELLINGTON MAGAZINE

Sophomore MadJo Hyzdu volunteered at a Meals on Wheels facility with her girls basketball teammates. They worked together to prepare food, serve, and clean up after a Valentines Day Ball for seniors. The girls found it to be a great way to bond as a team, translating to a stronger presence on the court.

“We talked and worked on our communication as we helped the seniors,” Hyzdu said. “We trusted each other more because we learned that we were all in it together. Plus, it always brings a smile to your face realizing that you’re helping people.”

GIRLS MIDDLE SCHOOL BASKETBALL TEAM

Girls Varsity Lacrosse

Head coach Katie Warner felt honored to be a part of the girls varsity lacrosse team. “It is hard to put into words just how exceptional this group of girls is,” she said. They were extremely hard-working, devoted, and always positive. They did everything asked of them and beyond. Although their record may not reflect a winning season, it was without question successful. The team played with heart, dignity, and pride. The four team captains, Mallory Tannous ’14, Carolyn Faller ’15, Nia Kaudo ’14, and Natalie Morse ’14 helped lead the team throughout the season and were extremely helpful in keeping up the team morale. Tannous was nominated for 2nd team in our conference and Gwen Hughes ‘16 received honorable mention.

Boys Varsity Lacrosse

The varsity boys lacrosse team was a young team this season, but displayed strong effort and growth. The team was led by senior Will Edwards ’14 and several underclassmen, including Jack Chester ‘16 and Roth Dehlendorf ‘16. Their best game of the season resulted in a one goal loss to Dublin Scioto. The team is also proud of their victory over Big Walnut and looks forward to continued growth next season.

Boys Middle School Lacrosse

The boys middle school lacrosse team had a season full of ups and downs. After winning the first three games of the season, the boys then went on a three game skid. However this only served to make them stronger in the long run, as they banned together behind the leadership of Andrew Watson ’18, Katz Kadlic ’19, and Max Lyski ’19 to finish the season strong. The team should also be proud of their tournament games, as they played with a ton of heart. The Jaguars finished the season 5-7.

Girls Middle School Lacrosse

Girls middle school lacrosse had the honor of being the first team to ring the new Victory Bell at Roberts Field. The girls initially struggled to find their rhythm in the first couple of games, but quickly hit full stride with consecutive ties against Jones MS, Granville, and consecutive wins against CSG, Miami Valley, Westerville Club and Bexley. With a season record of 5 wins, 6 losses, and 2 ties, the Lady Jags scored more than 90 goals total from 13 different girls. MacKenzie Beam ’19 stepped in as a fearless goalie, Lizzy Chester ’18 and Annie Taylor ’18 were the highest goal scorers. Sarah Zimmerman ’18 won the Coaches Award for her contributions at key moments during big games, for her positive attitude, and overall growth as a player.

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ATHLETICS

Girls Middle School Basketball

The girls middle school basketball team had an outstanding season, finishing with an impressive overall winning record of 12-1. The girls pushed themselves to new limits and showed a great deal of dedication and hard work. Despite a disappointing loss to Shekinah Christian after returning from Holiday Break, the team rallied to go undefeated for the remainder of the new year. Led offensively by sisters Macey ’18 and Addie ’17 Shock, the team averaged over 40 points per game. In the most memorable and final game of the season against Village Academy, every single team member put the ball in the basket. The girls erupted in cheers at the conclusion of the game and every player left the floor that night smiling ear to ear.

Boys Middle School Basketball

The boys middle school basketball blue team had a 4-9 record this winter. When a broken wrist took Eric Jacques ’18 out for the season, players Morgan Safford ’19, Max Lyski ’19, and Katz Kadlic ‘19 never lost their footing with the helping the team to victory. Coach Al Edmondson was particularly impressed with the boys’ upset victory over Patriot on their home court with just 10 seconds left on the clock.

The boys middle school white had a great season this year. The team, consisting of some first year players, finished the regular season with a record of 8-6. They played against teams that had more experience and were challenging for the players in the beginning. The turning point was a game against Village Academy. The team was down by 13 with 3 minutes left in the game. The Jaguars rallied back. Although, they didn’t go on to win the game, the team learned how to overcome adversity together. The team also won the Tree of Life tournament. The future looks bright for Jags basketball.

Girls Varsity Basketball

The girls varsity basketball team finished the season with a record of 8 wins and 15 losses. It was the most wins by the girls team since 2008 despite being a very young team comprised of mostly underclassman. One of the most memorable moments of the season was a victory over Horizon Science Academy in the opening game of the annual Jaguar Invitational. The Gard Gym was packed with students and families alike and that made for a very exciting game. There were a number of players who elevated their games this season but none more than Donnette Cox ’14, Halle Jefferson ’16, and Abbey Mayne ’16.

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Both Cox and Jefferson received the Columbus Dispatch All-Central District team Honorable Mention, while Mayne was recognized by our opposing coaches at the Jaguar Invitational and named to the All-Tournament team. The most challenging aspect of the season was losing Senior Captain Mallory Tannous to a season ending injury in game 7. Several younger players including Molly Anderson ’15, Sydney Snow ’15, Gwen Hughes ’16, Bret Hairston ’17, and Sophie Barbour ’17 all rallied to the challenge to be their best despite the loss of a key player. As the team looks ahead to next season, these younger players have benefited greatly from their unexpected game experiences and will be well prepared for what lies ahead.

Boys Varsity Basketball

This season, the boys varsity basketball team showed a lot of growth in both understanding and enjoying the competitive nature of athletics and basketball at the varsity level. The team had two seniors, Chris Jones and Hamilton Green. The team finished the regular season with a record of 7-17. They won the first game in the state basketball tournament before losing to Harvest Prep in the second round. The Jaguars were led in scoring by Cameron Edmondson ’16 and Elliott Fite ’15. Ben Brisk ’15, Chandler James ’16 and Mason McIntyre ’15 rounded out the starting five for most of the season. A great measuring game which highlighted the team’s competitive improvement was against Bexley in January in which the boys lost by a mere two points (55-57). Just one month earlier the Jags had played the same Bexley team and lost 65-33.

That competitiveness will serve the team well in the 2014-15 basketball season.

Alumni Coaches

Wellington Athletics is comprised of many talented and dedicated coaches leading students to discover their greatest athletic potential. This year there was a record number of Wellington alumni coaching. As a student himself, head golf coach Craig Mosier ’01 had three varsity letters in golf and tennis and was captain of the golf team his senior year. Motivated by a desire to give back to the school, he made it a personal quest to take Wellington to states again (prior to his tenure, 1997 was the only season the golf team made it there). After successfully reaching that goal, Mosier next set the team’s sights on a state championship and they won in 2011.

It’s a great feeling helping the school build its athletic resume,” Mosier said.

“There’s nothing better than hanging a banner in your school’s gym!”

Middle School Baseball

Middle school baseball had a successful season this year showing strong improvement. For what the team lacked in experience, it more than made up for in effort and attitude while competing with older teams. “We entered the season as a group of middle school students with little baseball experience, but through hard work and teamwork, the boys truly transformed into baseball players,” said Coach Greg Huffman. The team also had a good time completing a service project and kayaking at TAASC. Captains Max Wing ‘18 and Ian Frim ‘17 showed strong leadership and led the team in hitting. A strong 6th grade class including Noah Jones-Beyene, Kyle Tocci, and Zeke Lloyd, who led the team in pitching, show that the future is bright for Wellington middle school baseball.

2013-14 Wellington Alumni Coaches Craig Mosier ’01 – US Boys Golf J.J. Bain ’06 – US Boys Soccer Asst.

Travis Moore ’03 – US Boys Lacrosse Asst.

Will Emery ’08 – MS Boys Lacrosse James Parsons ’06 – MS Boys Baseball Asst.

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ATHLETICS

Varsity Baseball

The varsity baseball team finished with a 12-10 overall record. This was their third consecutive winning season.

This year’s highlights included training at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Florida and playing two games in the Spring Training stadium of the Atlanta Braves. The boys also had big victories against Independence High School (a 9-8 win in 10 innings!) and MOCAL Champion Granville Christian Academy. While the team focused on playing “team ball,” there were a few players who stood out. Captains Grayson Ashby ’14, Anthony Davis ’14, Elliott Fite ’15, and Zach Kauffman ’15 showed tremendous leadership through their words and play this season. Three of the four were recognized by the Central District Coaches Association for their outstanding play, earning 2ndTeam All-District (Ashby and Fite) and Honorable Mention (Kauffman) recognition.

Varsity Softball

The varsity softball team boasts 21 ladies represented by 7 senior leaders; Abby Fleeter ‘14, Anne Hulthen ‘14, Gab Smith ‘14, Em Hammett ‘14, Emily Swartz ‘14, Katie King ‘14 and Zoe Case ‘14. Senior captains Abby Fleeter and Katie King have been a consistent battery for the softball program since middle school and will be greatly missed. Versatile senior captain, Gab Smith ‘14 was the team’s vocal leader and hit left-handed when the situation called for a yard change. Senior captain outfielder, Em Hammett ‘14 handled her role as the cleanup hitter with power and consistency for two seasons hitting over .500 most of the season (including two homeruns and several multiple base hits).This season saw more cold and rainy days then sunny ones, but the girls made the most of the opportunities they were given. The team ended the regular season 5-12, but were never underestimated by their coaches because they were tenacious and found a way to sneak their way back into any given game.

Middle School Softball

The young middle school softball team (comprised of six 6th, six 7th, and just one 8th grader) loved learning, teaching each other, and having fun together. Two games stood out to illustrate the team’s extensive growth, including a three hour marathon at Tree of Life (final score was an astonishing Wellington 37, TOL 29). Megan Johnson ’19 pitched the entire game; her best inning was the last one, resulting in a slightly sore arm the next day. Camille McCants-Simpson ’19 absolutely crushed a pitch, landing the ball about 50 feet beyond the outfielders, for a home run. Amelia Walker’s ’18 silky smooth swing and textbook quality slides to avoid tags in order to score earned her the nickname “Major League.” The team played by far its best game in the finale at Madison Christian with excellent pitching, decision making, and execution on defense. Players trusted teammates to be in the right place at the right time and were rewarded by getting the lead runner out in four very close, gorgeous plays at 3rd base and home. Captain Aquila Simmons ’19, who was arguably the best catcher on either team in every game, was an even better leader with constant encouragement and communication.

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Boys Varsity Tennis

The varsity boys tennis team had a phenomenal season. Finishing 12-0 and playing in team district finals vs. Columbus Academy were major accomplishments. Off the courts, the boys came together as a team and enjoyed team camaraderie as they traveled to matches in new school vans. Strong senior leadership helped propel the team’s success. Ben Smith ’14 and John Schoellkopff ’14 were talented second doubles. Nick Sweeney ’15 and Lincoln Ficek ’14 earned the first seed in the sectionals. A memorable win for the team was against Bexley in which the boys won 4-1, earning the team championship and beating Bexley for the first time. The team overcame adversity in the match against Olentangy Orange, in which the boys had to come from behind and ended up winning 3-2.

and determination both on and off the court. His ability to keep his composure on the court is mature beyond his years. He finished out the season playing No. 2 singles and defeating his toughest opponent this season 6-4, 6-2. Young’s commitment and positive attitude to the team and his teammates made him a leader. Not only did he bring a tough game to the court but he also showed excellent team spirit.

Young went off with a bang, finishing off the season at No. 1 Doubles with a winning record of 4-0.

Boys Middle School Tennis

Blue team had a winning record of 4-0. Winning 15 individual matches and only losing 5 matches total all season. Even though this spring season was full of rain outs and cancellations, the team had a very successful season filled with a lot of laughter. Standout players included Andrew Dvorkin ’20 and Ryan Young ’18. They attended every practice and match and both came out on top with winning records. Dvorkin had a 3-1 winning record and showed drive

White team won 2 out of 5 matches this season which was spectacular for a beginning team. Each member of this team participated in match play and for some this was the first time they picked up a racquet. Ben Sierzputowski ’19 was a strong leader and showed team sportsmanship like no other. He constantly cheered on and supported his teammates during practice as well as during team matches. He showed strong focus and determination to play every point like it was his last. Sierzputowski completed the season with a record of 2-3 playing singles positions and doubles positions.

Sulimaan Priest ’18 came to the tennis team this season never playing a match before. His positivity and perseverance to get to every ball was motivating to all teammates. With a season record of 2-3 this player could not have left more on the court this season.

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ATHLETICS

Upper School Swimming and Diving

Upper School swimmers and divers had a great year and finished with strong performances in the sectional, district, and state meets.

During the sectional meet at Upper Arlington High School, Wellington swimmers posted 27 personal best times with seven first place finishes.

Thirteen swimmers and divers qualified for the district meet in 19 events.

Five school records were broken at the districts meet. Brittany Anderson ’14 and Michael Haring ’15 broke their own school records in 1 meter diving and were both crowned the 2014 District Champion. It was Anderson’s second district title and Haring’s third. Senior Joe Campbell broke the school’s 200 free record and placed 5th. Sophomore Matthew Xin broke the 50 breaststroke and 100 breaststroke records and placed 6th in the 200 IM and 7th in the 100 breast. The girls 200 Medley Relay with Sara Brubaker ’16, Gabrielle Berry ’14, Abby Fleeter ’14, and Kate Miller ’15 placed 8th posting the fastest relay time of the year.

At the state meet in Canton, Haring placed 9th and just missed a podium appearance by a couple of points. Anderson led the field after three rounds then hit her hand on the board on her fourth dive dropping her to the back of the group. Heroically, she battled back each round, diving her way back up the rankings. Anderson scored great marks on difficult dives

to finish out her high school career with a state meet finish of 3rd place as the bronze medalist.

Anderson plans to dive for the University of Michigan and Campbell will continue his swimming career at Hamline University.

Middle School Swimming

When the middle school swim team started 4 years ago, it only had 5 swimmers. Each year since then they have grown. The team had 28 swimmers this year! Every swimmer swam a personal best in all of their events. Spencer Povoski ’18 was the highest scoring boy, placing sixth and eighth at championships in the 100 and 50 freestyle. Alex Parsons ‘20 was the highest scoring girl, placing 16th in both the 100 freestyle and 100 backstroke. The team had 19 new swimmers, 15 of which had never participated on a swim team before. Chloe Locker ’19, Hailey Hogan ’18, Carrie Kennard ’19 and Will Humphrys ’20 were the highest scoring new swimmers.

‘

Track & Field

The track & field team increased in size quite a bit this year.

Athletes competing included: Derin Atekoja ’16 in the 100, 200, 400 meters, Keilah Causey ’16 in the 200, 400 meters & long jump, Donnette Cox ’14 in the shot put, Paige Harper ’16 in the shot put, Simone Robinson ’17 in the 200, 400 meters. The team displayed great promise and improvement throughout the season.

41 • WELLINGTON MAGAZINE 56

LAURA WILKINS COOKE ’90, CRAIG MOSIER ’01, BETH KOZLOWSKI MOSIER ’01, KATIE DICKENS ’01, JAY AMSTUTZ ’98, SOPHIA BAIDYA MOHR ’91, JUSTIN COLLAMORE ’91, JOHN PAULL ’00, GREG DAVDA ’93, CLIFF CANNON ’01, BOB DOLCIATO ’96, MAUREEN BROLICK P ’00, EMIL BROLICK P ‘00, ALISON SCHWALBE ’03, NOAH PORSCHART ’12, OMEAD SINAI ’12, JAMES FORBES ’02, KENDRA GARRETT ’09, ZACK BROWN ’01, KRISTEN NEUMANNMARTIENSEN ’02, JESSICA BROWN OHSNER ’03, TERREE STEVENSON ’91, JOHN OHSNER ’03 NOT PICTURED: ANDY FARBER ’97, ROB MASON ’89

ALUMNI

Alumni Lunch & Learn

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lumni from the Class of 1989 to the Class of 2012, were in attendance for the Lunch & Learn with Emil Brolick, President and CEO of Wendy’s, on March 7. The group gathered together to hear about his work experience, professional advice and his love for Wellington. Emil is currently President and Chief Executive Officer of The Wendy’s Company and a member of the Company’s Board of Directors and had two children who attended Wellington, Caroline ’00 and Alex.

TOP: EMIL BROLICK P ‘00 BOTTOM: NOAH PORSCHART ’12, OMEAD SINAI ‘12

Emil shared about how there are three main qualities he looks for in a leader, including self-reverence, selfknowledge, and self-control. He said knowing one’s self is key to being successful especially in a leadership position. Many took away from this event the drive and desire to work hard at the job they are currently in. Emil

challenged the alumni to focus on their current work instead of focusing on the next promotion. He told them this will show others their true skills and that they are ready for that promotion.

Thank you to the Alumni Association Board, Emil Brolick, and his assistant, Deanna Schrader, for making this event a huge success.

KRISTEN NEUMANN-MARTIENSEN ’02, JAMES FORBES ’02, ALISON SCHWALBE ’03, JOHN OHSNER ’03, JESSICA BROWN OHSNER ’03, JUSTIN COLLAMORE ’91 SPRING/SUMMER 2014 • 57

ALUMNI

UPDATED INFORMATION

As we begin planning more alumni events, we want to make sure you know about them! Update your contact information today by emailing alumni@wellington.org.

College Transition Panel

The College Counseling Department invited back recent graduates and alumni parents to sit on a panel for graduating seniors and their parents to answer questions about the new journey ahead. Thank you to alumni: Colleen Durfee ’10, Ellis Edwards ’11, Casey Fleeter ’11, Catie Gross ’11, Jacob Robinson ’10, Jonathan Robinson ’13; and parents: Lisa Edwards P ’11 ’14 ’18 ’26, Missy Fite P ’13 ’15, Howard Fleeter P ’11 ’14, Karen King P ’10 ’14, and Teresa Moore P ’13. Thank you to Barb Fleeter P ’11 ’14 and Jennifer Steele P ’14 for organizing the event.

Senior & Alumni Luncheon

The annual Senior & Alumni Luncheon was held on May 16, the senior’s official last day. Alumni gathered to share their experiences and answer questions. The alumni focused on how to live in a dorm room, how to achieve good grades, ways to get involved, and much more. Thank you to Greg Davda ’93, Colleen Durfee ’10, Jaime Grinch ’11, Brook Kohn ’08, John Ohsner ’03, James Parsons ’06, Omead Sinai ’12, and Emily Soppe ’13 for sharing advice.

ABOVE: ANNIE POSTLE ’14, MALLORY TANNOUS ’14, COLLEEN DURFEE ’10 BELOW: ZOE CASE ’14, AMELIA PALMER ’14, EMILY SWARTZ ’14 BOTTOM: EM HAMMETT ’14, SARAH WAYMAN ’14, GRAYSON ASHBY ’14, JOSH ROSELER ’14, JAMES PARSONS ’06

ELLIS EDWARDS ’11, CASEY FLEETER ’11, CATIE GROSS ’11, COLLEEN DURFEE ’10, JACOB ROBINSON ’10, JONATHAN ROBINSON ’13

Clippers Game

Andrew Cosslett ’01, Greg Davda ’93, Bice Dolciato ’96, Brook Kohn ’08, Harry Lesgold ’94, Beth Mosier ’01, Craig Mosier ’01, Jessica Ohsner ’03, John Ohsner ’03, John Paull ’00, and their families gathered together at the Clippers game on April 18. The crowd cheered on the Clippers as they shared memories of Wellington and what they are up to today.

FEEDBACK WELCOME

Have an idea for an alumni event or want to host one in your city? Contact alumni@wellington.org with your thoughts.

43 • WELLINGTON MAGAZINE 58

Alumni News

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Jean Chuang Menges is a part of a private practice for acupuncture and Chinese herbal therapy in New York City.

She lives with her musician husband and two children who are attending a French school.

She is actively involved in raising awareness for holistic green parenting and sustainable living in local communities. Jean’s new hobby of organic gardening has become a family activity. She looks forward to biking with her kids this summer after spending the winter learning how to ski.

Richard O’Shaughnessy will be joining the faculty at RIT as a member of the Center for Computational Relativity, the astronomy program, and the school of mathematical sciences. Richard’s research is in gravitational wave astrophysics: looking for and interpreting ripples in the fabric of the universe produced when nearby violent events occur. At RIT, Richard will be a tenure-track professor with responsibilities in research, mentor PhD and masters’ students, and teach classes. His research group will continue to work principally with LIGO, an experiment that is selected to detect ripples.

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Jack Chuang won a Consumer Choice Award for his family-owned restaurant House of Japan in Columbus, OH. He was interviewed about the award in May by Gail Hogan on NBC Daytime.

Greg Davda lives in Dublin, Ohio with his 13-year-old son. He graduated officer candidate school in ’13 and is commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Ohio Military Reserve and has been assigned as a Platoon Leader for Bravo Company, Second Battalion, Fourth Civil Support & Sustainment Brigade under the Ohio Adjutant General’s Department. Greg is also working for BestTransport, a software company in Worthington, Ohio. He recently participated in the Worthington Memorial Day Parade as part of the VFW Post 2398.

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Jerry Kaltenbach has taken a partner and expanded his law firm, now Kaltenbach Vargo. Located in Upper Arlington, OH, they focus on business, real estate, business transactions, and consumer law.

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Erin Cornett and her husband Bryce welcomed the newest addition to their family through the blessing of adoption, Willa Joy Griffing.

Erin and Willa enjoyed maternity leave together during the cold winter months. Erin is excited to be back teaching and looking forward to bringing Willa to Wellington events.

Bob Dolciato recently joined Bank of America’s Commercial Lending Group as Sr. Client Manager, VP in Columbus, OH.

Charles and Jessica live in Worthington, OH with their children Cole, Juliet, Vivien, and Aubrielle.

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Jane Wallingford recently married Peter Shaw on March 29, 2014 in Washington, D.C. They moved to Sydney, Australia shortly after the wedding. Jane has also been working in Washington, D.C as an Associate with the management-consulting firm Booz Allen Hamilton.

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Chad Frye is associate publisher and director of marketing and business development at Outlook Media in Columbus, OH Adam Stewart and his wife Anne welcomed their second daughter, Tallulah Gray Stewart, on March 7th.

She was 20 inches and 6 pounds, 15 ounces at birth.

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Jennifer Caldwell Walker accepted a new position at UH Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital in Cleveland, Ohio as a Full-Time Music Therapist. Jennifer also celebrated her father’s 20th anniversary post heart transplant. Jennifer lives in University Heights, Cleveland with her husband Brandon.

Allison Sayre Paugh recently accepted a new position at The James Cancer Hospital as a Clinic Nurse in The James Palliative Care Clinic. She currently lives in Powell, Ohio with her husband Jeff and 2-year-old daughter Ella.

Jennifer Schlosser and Ben Miladin are the proud parents of Miles Arthur Miladin, born Sunday, April 20 (Easter) at 2:10 p.m. at Lakewood Hospital near Cleveland. He was 7 pounds, 4 ounces when he was born but rapidly gaining weight.

Anna Taft is the Executive Director of The Tandana Foundation and is currently in Ecuador overseeing volunteer programs and projects. She is looking forward to the possibility of having a Wellington group travel to Ecuador next November. Anna is also studying at Skidmore College’s Master of Arts in Liberal Studies program, focusing on morality in a pluralistic world.

Charles Valentino and his wife Jessica gave birth to their 4th child on March 3rd, a daughter named Aubrielle Marian Valentino.

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Andres Marquez-Lara was named one of the 45 future leaders of social change across North America by American Express and Ashoka Changemakers for the work of his company, Promethean Community.

01

Zach Brown and Drew Miller started Sqrl alongside three others in 2013. Sqrl is a service to save accountants time when working with clients. John Paull ’00 now works for Sqrl.

The company was featured on the leading startup website TechCrunch.

Jim Wallingford and his wife Chelsi recently moved to Muskogee, OK last summer and spent the fall renovating it. The two welcomed George Beck Wallingford, 6 pounds, 9.5 ounces, and John Theodore Wallingford, 5 pounds, into the world on the morning of April 30. Both boys are healthy and doing fine! Jim has joined a law firm and is practicing bad-faith insurance law. Last May, Jim and Ned Young ’01 participated in the Harvard Business School entrepreneurship competition.

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ALUMNI

03

Rene Haynes was recently named women’s basketball assistant head coach at Duke University.

York City to start a six-month internship with NBC and Donald Trump creating videos and photographs for the Miss Universe Organizations. She will be documenting the contestants and winners of Miss Universe and Miss USA teen pageant, as well as being a part of the broadcasting crew of each production.

Nick Vasko was chosen as one of the most outstanding seniors in the class of 2014 at Cornell University. He has also chosen Sara Brdar as the secondary teacher who has made the most significant contribution to his education The award is given to Ms. Brdar by Cornell University.

11

Anna Viragh is a junior at Wheaton College.

She is the recent recipient of a Davis International Fellowship and will be traveling to Africa this summer to conduct research for her senior year thesis in Anthropology.

Kiran Reddy graduated from Emory University Rachael Buckingham a junior at The Business School this year and obtained an College of Charleston is currently interning MBA. Kiran was also just promoted to Manager of the Customer Profitability Group at McKesson at Wine Awesomeness working with marketing and writing for their blog. This summer she will Technology Solutions in Atlanta, GA. be studying abroad in Czech Republic and Poland.

Drew Denisco has been following his love for basketball over the last 10 years Ellis Edwards is a junior studying Art History and is now the Assistant Video Coordinator for and French at NYU. Ellis continued her studies abroad in Paris this past spring semester. She the Cleveland Cavaliers where he helps with has enjoyed a lot of travel overseas and made scouting, video breakdown, and gets to work it to eleven countries in four months! Two with the staff and team on a daily basis. Drew weekends of travel were even spent with fellow is engaged to be married this coming August.

Wellington alum, Dara Love. The girls made it to Rome, Italy and Munich, Germany for the Stefan Viragh recently moved to San annual Spring Festival. Ellis will be returning to Francisco on a whim. Without a job and the States this summer to live in New York City. a place to live, he crashed on friend’s couches.

She is very excited to be working as an intern Within one week he found a place to live and a at the Solomon R. Guggeheim Museum in their job. Stephan is now working at US Sport Camp in San Rafael, CA, doing international marketing Publishing and Digital Media department. Ellis has loved her time spent in Paris and throughout and administrative work for all the Nike Sports Europe, but says her heart will always belong to Camp and various others around the country. the Big Apple ... and Columbus, of course!

Kendra Garrett is working for Grace Korandovich a junior Nationwide as a MCR II. Kendra is at SDSU, leads her lacrosse responsible for handling members regarding team this season being tied for insurance policies from policyholders, agents, third with seven goals and nine third parties, and business partners. points and is second in draw control. In a recent Kristi Olesik has been in Colorado for the last game she scored the game-winning goal in the year, but will be moving back to Ohio to go to The program’s first victory over the Golden Bears.

Ohio State University for medical school in the fall.

Dara Love is studying Marika Viragh graduated from Colorado College Accounting in the business last spring and spent five months in India working school at Indiana University. on the launch of a clean water foundation. She is She has spent her semester now working with IDEO.org, an organization that abroad in Rome, studying focuses on bringing human centered design to with the John Cabot University program. Dara those who face poverty every day. has enjoyed a lot of travel, along with immersing herself in the amazing ancient city of Rome.

Brandia Hayes graduated from Many of her classes pertain to the city’s rich Wittenberg this spring and will be going to history and are held onsite. She will be living in med school at University of Queensland/Oschner New York City this summer.

Clinical School.

Corey Morse a junior at Denison University will Liz Held has spent the last be interning this summer at Hamilton Capital four years studying Visual Management and USB Wealth Management, Communications at Ohio both of which are in Columbus.

University and graduated this May. In July, Liz will be moving to New

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60 • WELLINGTON MAGAZINE

12

CJ Hansen will be interning this summer on NASA’s IRIS research program at Lockheed Martin. He will be researching the lower atmosphere of the sun. During CJ’s senior year at Wellington, his Senior Focus was in Astrophysics, which peaked his interest with help from Dr. Matt Spencer and Rob Brisk.

Omead Sinai is interning at Tata Consultancy Services and will be doing digital marketing analytics this summer.

Noah Porschart began an internship with the U.S. House of Representatives 12th Congressional District of Ohio where he does administrative work such as database work, supporting the district constituents, and handling inquiries. Along with this, he also has had the opportunity to intern at Van Meter, Ashbrook & Associates where he will be working with the partner Douglas J. Preisse and assisting him with campaign consulting and potentially corporate/ legislative lobbying initiatives.

Cameron Kirk has been named to the Dean’s List at High Point University in High Point, NC.

13

Leah Buckingham is finishing up her first year at University of Kentucky and was just initiated into her sorority, Kappa Kappa Gamma. This summer Leah will be a camp counselor at a day camp in Beaufort, SC. Meleah Moore was quoted in the New York Times Sunday Styles section in regards to her experience at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland.

The Members of the “Original” Class of 1989

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ince the beginning of Wellington, the 32 members of the first graduating class have always been the self-pronounced leaders of the student body. From the first time they walked through the doors in 6th grade to now, as they prepare to celebrate their 25 year reunion, this class has paved the way. “They have always had a responsibility to those who followed them by setting the tone and precedence of what Wellington is,” stated Sue Bonvallet, Wellington’s former Latin teacher.

Opening day of The Wellington School was exciting, because Wellington was brand new for everyone – not just the students, but also for the Head of School, the teachers, the staff, and the parents. Jeff Swaddling ’89 said “I still remember walking into my sixth grade classroom for the first time and reading the chalkboard, which said, “My Name is Mr. Smith.

This is The Wellington School.” That simple message reminded me that we were a part of something different and completely original.”

JEFFREY SWADDLING ’89, ANDREA PINSON ACKER ’89, AMIE SCHERER SWADDLING ’90, CARA FORESTER ’89, JENNIFER KANE SCHWARTZ ’89, DEBRA WILKINSON FECZKO ’90, ELIN SEREN ’89

Throughout their seven years, the class of 1989 had a chance to be a part of many firsts at Wellington. The first sports teams, performing arts programs, Upper School, Pinson Day, Student Government, senior prank and much more. Together, they built a community and started traditions that still happen today. Cama (Bonneau) Piccini remembers sitting with Dave Thomas on Wellington’s first day, ski trips to Breckenridge, and Mr. Stewart’s yellow Bug in the school.

The graduation ceremony was one to remember as faculty, staff, parents, and students gathered together outside in the heat of June for the first ever Wellington graduation. Mr. David Blanchard, Head of the School at the time, had the honor of conducting the ceremony and welcoming this class as the first alumni of Wellington.

This class has led and will continue to lead the path of what it means to be a graduate of The Wellington School. The many things that they have accomplished in the 25 years since leaving Wellington has showcased the faith they had back in 1982 to be a part of something unique was well worth the risk. Many members of the graduating class are married, have children, volunteer with Wellington and in their community, and are very successful in their careers. These careers include, but are not limited to, presidents or CEOs of various businesses, lawyers, physicians, digital strategists, recruitment managers, and bankers. Some of them serve on various Boards of Trustees for different organizations, including The Wellington School, and volunteer at local non-profits in their communities.

CYNTHIA CALLENDER DUNGEY ’89, JENNIFER MARTIN ’89

SAVE THE DATE

Save the Date for Alumni Weekend scheduled for September 26-27, celebrating the classes of 1989, 1994, 1999, and 2004. Join us on Friday evening for Founders Day, a celebration of the founding of Wellington including games for young kids, food, and soccer games. The Main Event, along with smaller reunion events will happen on Saturday – more details to come.

SPRING/SUMMER 2014 • 61

ALUMNI

Catching Up with the Class of 1994

ANDREW EVANS Houston, Texas Family: Just me Job and Industry: I give legal advice to an oil and gas company, particularly to its business in Equatorial Guinea College(s): The College of William & Mary, AB in philosophy; Fulbright Grant, Taiwan; The University of Colorado, MA in Chinese literature; Cornell University, JD How do you serve the community? Occasional fundraising Share a favorite Wellington memory: Friends Favorite teacher or coach: Susan Bonvallet What were you involved with at Wellington? Student government, soccer, lacrosse, golf What did Wellington best prepare you for? Taught me how to write Sum up Wellington in three words: A great education JEANNA KEINATH WEAVER Dublin, Ohio Family: Husband, Brian Weaver; Brayden, 5; Madeline, 3 Job and Industry: Attorney at Plunkett Cooney representing lenders in commercial real estate loan workouts College(s): BA, Hope College ’98, JD, University of Toledo College of Law How do you serve the community? Pleasure Guild of Nationwide Children’s Hospital Share a favorite Wellington memory: Middle school trip to London Favorite teacher or coach: This is a hard one since I had so many great teachers, but I would have to say Mrs. Goldsmith.

What were you involved with at Wellington? Soccer, skiing, softball What did Wellington best prepare you for? College Sum up Wellington in three words: Open-minded, family, and challenging MEAGAN OLTMANN BURRICK In The Middle of Nowhere, Indiana Family: Husband, Jamison; Nicholas, 12; Isabel, 9; and Alexandra, 8 Job and Industry: Managing partner of an auction site that raises money for animal rescues. I am also a K12 Learning Coach.

How do you serve the community? Foster/Rescue German Shepherds for two midwest area German Shepherd rescues. Junior leader at church. Active in 4H. Share a favorite Wellington memory: There are just so many, it’s hard to choose. Class of 1990’s and 1994’s senior pranks if I had to pick.

62 • WELLINGTON MAGAZINE

An email was sent to the everyone in the Class of 1994. If you are not included in this issue, please send your updated information to alumni@wellington.org, so we can highlight you in the next issue.

Favorite teacher or coach: Once again, there are just so many wonderful teachers and coaches...

What were you involved with at Wellington? What wasn’t I involved in at Wellington would be a better question.

What did Wellington best prepare you for? Teaching my children to write 5 paragragh essays in under 30 minutes. Helping my son with his pre-calculus homework this year.

Sum up Wellington in three words: Sorry I have to use four...prepare for the worst!

STEPHANIE SELLERS PHILLIPS McLean, VA Family: Husband, Brian; Jack, 4; Callan 3; Ella, 9.5 months Job and Industry: Aerospace Engineer College(s): George Mason University, Fairfax, VA Professional Certificate - Leadership Coaching for Organizational Development The George Washington University, Washington, DC Professional Engineer - Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering and Applied Science Minors, 2005 The George Washington University, Washington, DC Master of Science - Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering Minor, 2001 The University of Dayton, Dayton, OH Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering Minor, 1997 OLGA TROMCZYNSKA TRZEBINSKA Warsaw, Poland – my home country I live in Warsaw, Poland (my home country), but over the last 14 years I lived in Switzerland, Belgium, Singapore, USA - Boston, MA, UK and Sweden. I am back in Poland now for 3 years and hopefully for good ;-) Family: Husband, Bartek; Peter, 10; Jan, 8 Job and Industry: I own my own business - a music school with 3 locations in Warsaw.

College(s): Warsaw School of Economics, Master’s Degree in Finance and Banking and Harvard Extension School, Graduate Program in Administration and Management How do you serve the community? Involved at my sons’ school and Harvard Club of Poland by helping Polish kids finding their way to good American Universities Share a favorite Wellington memory: I was a visiting student from abroad, but I remember a very friendly atmosphere - great friends and amazing teachers. The funniest (but once not funny at all) are my memories from all the language (many of them not to be repeated)

Favorite teacher or coach? Due to my short time at Wellington, I mostly remember Ms Evans - the English teacher.

What were you involved with at Wellington? Learning English and making friends consumed most of my time, I wish I had done more!

What did Wellington best prepare you for? Made me an independent thinker and a more confident person.

If you could sum up Wellington in three words, what words would you chose? Gave me confidence.

Favorite teacher or coach: Mrs. Potter, Dr. Goldsmith, Mrs. Bonvallet, LT Evans, Mr. Yaksoe, Mrs. Pinson, Mr. Gibson, Mr. Dryer…too many great ones to name…

What were you involved with at Wellington? Sports mainly. And trying to get out of school.

What did Wellington best prepare you for? Communication, a love for learning (eventually), appreciating strength in diversity.

Sum up Wellington in three words: A special place.

SARAH VOSS WAGNER Saline, Michigan Family: Husband, Jeff; Andrew, 4; Claire, 3; Job and Industry: Currently stay at home College: DePauw University How do you serve the community? Ann Arbor YMCA Child care committee, parent volunteer at sons preschool, co-president of local sorority alum chapter Share a favorite Wellington memory: There are too many to name.

Morning meetings, sports teams, senior prank day, building the lofts in 3rd grade choir, plays, the supportive staff, French exchange program, wonderful friendships that are still an important part of my life Favorite teacher or coach: Again, too many to name. I have a special spot for Mr AND Mrs Sallee. Stewarts, Yaksoes. How unusual and great that these were family units working together to make such an impact.

What were you involved with at Wellington? Where is my senior page? Choir, band, student council, black history club, soccer, softball, basketball, lacrosse. Maybe more.

Sum up Wellington in three words: A great experience

ABIGAIL FISHER WILLIAMSON, PH.D. West Hartford, CT Family: Husband, Adam Fisher; Anya, 4; Lyla, 4 Job and Industry: Assistant Professor of Political Science and Public Policy, Trinity College College(s): BA, Williams College; MPP, Harvard Kennedy School; Ph.D. in Public Policy, Harvard University Share a favorite Wellington memory: I have a lot of happy memories: Ms. Evans’ junior English class and “the carp of truth”; Mr. Stewart’s baggy monster diagrams; coffee shop talks with classmates; dollar movies; skiing at Snow Trails; and trading mix tapes.

What were you involved with at Wellington? I played soccer, basketball, and lacrosse and volunteered at Second Avenue Elementary School.

What did Wellington best prepare you for? When I write professionally and work with students on writing, I still remember Mrs. Richmond’s lessons. Wellington fostered a sense of good citizenship – taking responsibility as a member of a community and finding a way to contribute.

JEFFREY WILKINS Columbus, Ohio Family: Wife, Ashley; Alexander, 9; Spencer, 8; and Lucy, 6 Job and Industry: Investment management and small business owner (real estate and construction) College(s): U of Arizona Undergrad; U of Michigan Graduate School for Business How do you serve the community? Defy Ventures: Provides carefully selected, ambitious men and women who have criminal histories with life-changing entrepreneurship, leadership, and career opportunities.

Share a favorite Wellington memory: Beating Academy in basketball for the first time ever, goofing around in the Commons during study hall, senior prank, fun with teachers. Mostly just the people who were all around.

WELLINGTON ALUMNI BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Help the Alumni Association Board create the first ever Alumni Business Directory at Wellington.

The purpose will be to share the directory with the Wellington community to help drive your business and provide others with professionals they can trust. Share your information with alumni@wellington.org to be included today!

The Josh Weisel Memorial Scholarship

Josh Weisel, Class of 1993, was a remarkable person we lost last year. He will be remembered for his indomitable spirit and determination to not be defined by his medical condition. He came to Wellington as a sophomore and was an inspiration to all who knew him. Josh found great joy at Wellington as he pursued his passions for art and music in addition to excelling at academics. He was able to achieve goals here that would have been impossible at a different school. To honor Josh’s memory and his love for Wellington, his family and friends have established The Josh Weisel Memorial Scholarship for an incoming student with physical disabilities who could not otherwise afford a Wellington education. It is a beautiful tribute to a man dedicated to helping others reach their full potential. For Josh, no physical barrier was so great that it could prevent his mind from soaring to new heights.

SPRING/SUMMER 2014 • 63

3650 Reed Road Columbus, Ohio 43220 614-457-7883 www.wellington.org

The Wellington School is an independent, coeducational, preschool through grade 12, college preparatory day school dedicated to preparing citizens who achieve, lead, and find fulfillment in a global community.

SAVE THE DATE

Back to School

Sundae Sunday August

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2 to 4 p.m.

Visit classrooms and teachers Meet new families and reconnect with friends Enjoy ice cream sundaes