USM Today Fall 2014 by University School of Milwaukee

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At University School of Milwaukee, members of the USM community adhere to the Common Trust and agree to relate to one another and the School with trust, honesty, fairness, kindness, and the 2014-2015 tenet,

respect. Our senior prefects shared what respect means to them in a series of speeches during USMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Opening Day Ceremony on August 27, and the tenet of respect will resonate throughout the school year in assemblies and gatherings across all divisions. But most importantly, the tenet will be reflected in how we treat one another throughout the school year, as we display the core values and unity that make USM special.

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in this issue 06 Homecoming 2014 02 Head of School Message 04 Events Around Campus

14 Wright Distinguished Faculty Award Winners

50 Years of USM

18 Meet Eric Peters 20 Annual Giving: 50 Reasons to Give 28 In Memoriam

31 Class Notes

Music to Our Ears

33 Academic Achievement 34 Preprimary Teachers Reﬁne Approach Through Italy Trip

36 Bringing Ideas to the Table: Upper School Roundtables

Alumna Finds Success in Silicon Valley

38 Athletic Program Looks to Build Upon Success 40 A Look Back

39 Announcing the Varsity Club Athletic Hall of Fame

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE:

03 Board of Trustees 24 Reunion Weekend 32 Parents’ Association

USM TODAY USM Today is published by University School of Milwaukee three times per year. USM is an independent, coeducational, college preparatory day school for students from prekindergarten through grade 12. Our editorial staff has made every attempt to ensure the accuracy of information reported, and we apologize for any inadvertent errors that may have occurred.

2014–2015 LEADERSHIP

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Tim Eilbes Director of Marketing and Communications

HEAD OF SCHOOL

MANAGING EDITOR

ASSISTANT HEAD OF SCHOOL

Ryan Cardarella Assistant Director of Marketing and Communications

Gregg Bach

Laura Fuller

HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Stuart Cushman

Julie Piwowarczyk Associate Director of Marketing and Communications

HEAD OF MIDDLE SCHOOL

Pamela Nosbusch

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

hout

Maria Stone Director of Development

HEAD OF LOWER SCHOOL

Jennifer Flierl Assistant Director of Marketing and Communications

PRESIDENT, BOARD OF TRUSTEES

ART DIRECTION AND DESIGN

PRESIDENT, ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD

McDill Design

Tom Parker ’79

PHOTOGRAPHY

PRESIDENT, PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION

James Schnepf

Niven Kingwill

Kathy Choren Richard Seesel

Visual Image Photography

To change your address or unsubscribe from the USM Today mailing list, please contact the USM Advancement Department at 414.540.3339 or usmadvancement@usmk12.org.

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HEAD OF SCHOOL LAURA FULLER

A YEAR OF CELEBRATION This school year is a

The feature story in this issue is about USM’s

special one for University School of Milwaukee as we

predecessor schools and our ﬁrst 50 years as a school,

come together to celebrate our 50th year as a school. As

and this issue includes several inserts, including our

we do so, we also honor the legacies of our predecessor

revised Mission Statement and Guiding Principles and a

schools, Milwaukee Country Day School, Milwaukee

12-month update on the implementation of our Strategic

Downer Seminary, and Milwaukee University School.

Plan. These documents, and all of the work that went into

As of Opening Day, we had 1,133 students enrolled—yet

these processes, remind me of how we are continuing to

another year of record enrollment—and we owe much of

evolve as a school, and of just how important that is to

our excellence as a school to the foundation provided

fulﬁlling our mission of graduating young adults who are

by our predecessor schools’ histories and successes.

prepared not only for college, but also for a life of purpose.

We work hard to make sure our alumni continue to have

Also included in this issue is our 2013-2014 Annual

a special place in their hearts for their alma mater—

Advancement Report, which recognizes the support

especially during this milestone anniversary year—and

of our many volunteers and donors who give so

also strive to ensure that alumni of our predecessor

generously of themselves. The work that we do would

schools feel a special connection to USM as well.

not be possible without their gifts of time, talents, and

Throughout this year’s “50 Years of USM” celebration,

resources, so I encourage you to join me in offering

we will share the story of the coming together of our

a heartfelt thank you to the many people who provide

predecessor schools in 1964, as well as the stories of

support in so many ways to USM. We are fortunate to be

USM’s accomplishments over the past ﬁve decades.

able to continually invest in our students and their futures.

We will also look forward and dream, as we envision

We look forward to seeing you on campus and in

the next 50 years and beyond, and think about ways to

your communities this year, as we celebrate the past,

continue to build on our well-established traditions of

present, and future of this amazing school. Happy 50th

academic excellence and community.

anniversary to all of us!

USM TODAY | FALL 2014

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2014-2015 Board of Trustees Board of Trustees Front from left Sangeeta Khanna, Tamora Martin, Frederick P. Stratton III ’92, Edie Turnbull, Board of Trustees President Richard J. Seesel, Head of School Laura J. Fuller, Andrew A. Petzold, Marina Rosenberg, and Jon Hopkins. Back from left Karen Huffman, Patricia Juranitch, Dr. Patricia Hoben, Sarah Zimmerman ’92, Erskine Tucker Jr. ’79, R. David Fritz ’81, Stephen F. Geimer ’78, Linda Mutschler, Gregory Smith, and Parents’ Association President Niven Kingwill. Not pictured Deanna Doerr, Michael Grebe ’85, Stephen Guy, Charles A. Mellowes ’87, Dr. William Pennington, and Karin Werner.

USM Welcomes New Trustees

Stephen Guy

Dr. Patricia Hoben

OCCUPATION

Managing Director, Robert W. Baird and Co.

Founder and Head of School, Carmen High School of Science and Technology

BOARD COMMITTEES

Athletics and Finance

BOARD COMMITTEES

Advancement and Community Relations

Tamora Martin

Gregory Smith

Karin Werner

OCCUPATION

Partner, ASSAP

Executive-in-Residence/ Lecturer, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Lubar School of Business; Associate Curriculum Director, American Bankers Association; Managing Partner, Barnett Management Advisors, LLC

Director, Marquette Legal Initiative for Nonproﬁt Corporations; Adjunct Law Professor, Marquette University

BOARD COMMITTEES

Auxiliary Revenue, Facilities, and Strategic Innovation

BOARD COMMITTEES

Advancement and Community Relations, Auxiliary Revenue, and Facilities

BOARD COMMITTEES

Advancement and Community Relations, Finance, and Strategic Innovation

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events around campus OPENING DAY 2014 In August, our seniors kicked off Opening Day festivities as they entered the Middle School Circle hand-in-hand with senior kindergarten students. The ceremony featured speeches from the 2015 class prefects on the Common Trust tenet of respect; Head of Middle School Pamela Nosbusch rang the ceremonial ďŹ rst bell of the 2014-2015 school year (top left); and a ribbon-cutting ceremony to begin the year was held for our Middle School students at the 8th-grade stairs (top right). The day was also marked by a series of proclamations (middle right) in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the formation of USM. In honor of the anniversary, August 27 was proclaimed University School of Milwaukee Day by the City of Milwaukee and Milwaukee County. Additionally, the State of Wisconsin issued a certiďŹ cate of commendation recognizing the 50th anniversary of USM.

USM TODAY | FALL 2014

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JUNIOR WILDCAT JAMBOREE USM community members joined together in support of our Middle School during September’s Junior Wildcat Jamboree. This event showcased several of USM’s Middle School interscholastic sports teams, and attendees were treated to a series of snacks and festive activities near Willie’s Corner. They also took aim at several Middle School faculty members who braved the chilly morning to participate in the dunk tank.

PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION BACK-TO-SCHOOL COFFEE The USM Parents’ Association welcomed families to campus with a Back-to-School coffee following the Opening Day Ceremony. The coffee gave parents an opportunity to connect with one another and to learn more about how to get involved as volunteers with key Parents’ Association initiatives.

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Willie the Wildcat took on other local mascots in a dance-off competition at the All-School Pep Rally.

The University School of Milwaukee community gathered in celebration during Homecoming 2014 festivities.

Following a week of Homecoming spirit dress days and the traditional senior pep rally on Wednesday, Friday’s All-School Pep Rally kicked off the weekend’s activities. The All-School Pep Rally featured a rousing a cappella performance by the Upper School Blazers; an ice bucket challenge answered by Head of Lower School Kathy Choren, Head of Middle School Pamela Nosbusch, and Head of Upper School Stuart Cushman; an incredible fire twirling demonstration by Margaret Bodalski ’15; and an appearance by FOX6 sports anchor Tom Pipines, who later covered the Homecoming football game. The Rally was capped off by an impromptu dance competition that pitted USM’s Willie the Wildcat against his mascot friends Bango the Buck, Bernie Brewer, Roscoe from the Milwaukee Admirals, and Gill from the Lakeshore Chinooks. Willie fended off his fierce competition and was declared the dance-off champion by the students! The Pep Rally was followed by the Homecoming BBQ, held on a beautiful evening behind the Don Forti Stadium bleachers, where several hundred Wildcat fans gathered for food and fun prior to the Homecoming football game. While the Wildcats fell to Brookfield Academy 34-13, the atmosphere was electric.

Von Mansﬁeld ’78 spoke at the Varsity Club Luncheon.

The festivities continued on Saturday morning with the Blue and Gold 3K Fun Run/Walk. Entrants of all ages took part in the run/walk around USM’s scenic cross-country trail. Our own Willie even joined in for the run! Our younger Wildcats enjoyed carnival games and bounce houses at Willie’s Fall Fun Fest in the Middle School Gymnasium.

USM TODAY | FALL 2014

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SEPTEMBER 18-20

Head of Upper School Stuart Cushman conquers the ice bucket challenge.

USM went undefeated in three Upper School athletic events on Saturday, as boys’ soccer defeated Living Word Lutheran 4-0, volleyball swept Milwaukee Vincent 3-0, and ﬁeld hockey routed Divine Savior Holy Angels 13-0 in the Tessa Nowakowski ’10 Memorial Field Hockey Game. Former Badgers and Packers standout Von Mansﬁeld ’78 closed the Saturday morning festivities with a presentation at the Varsity Club Luncheon in Mellowes Hall. The weekend festivities concluded with the Upper School Homecoming Dance on Saturday evening. 7

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In the fall of 1964, University School of Milwaukee opened its doors, on two separate campuses, for the ﬁrst time. The founding of USM was a result of a merger of three highly respected independent schools in Milwaukee: Milwaukee Country Day School, Milwaukee Downer Seminary, and Milwaukee University School. This represented the ﬁrst successful merger of three independent schools in the United States.

Five decades after that historic merger, the USM community is excited to celebrate “50 Years of USM.” Join us for a series of School highlights, from the merger of three historic Milwaukee independent schools through USM’s current standing as the ﬁnest preprimary through secondary school in the Milwaukee area and the state of Wisconsin, and one of the top college preparatory schools in the country.

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University School of Milwaukee: Three Merge Into One “It seems ridiculous to support three independent schools within five miles of each other.” - William C. Messinger, former USM Board of Trustees’ President. The merger of Milwaukee’s three prominent independent schools had been discussed since the 1920s, but talks had failed to gain any traction until the early 1960s, when economic constraints and the academic and athletic potential of a unified school helped bring USM to fruition. In a letter from USM’s new Board of Trustees, it was stated that the merger would “provide a larger enrollment, greater breadth and depth of curriculum, a strengthened faculty, and overall excellence as a result of common leadership.” While many people only know USM as the unified school that it is today, the merger of 1964 was not a smooth transition. All three predecessor schools believed in the superiority of their teachers, students, and academic offerings, and that competitive spirit was identified as the most serious obstacle to the merger of the schools. Athletic rivalries also carried over following the merger, as MUS and MCDS were fierce competitors. During the mid-1930s the animosity was so strong that the schools considered severing their athletic relationship. However, after some initial misgivings, the leadership of School luminaries such as Ken Laird, Howard Boese, and new headmaster F. Gardiner F. Bridge helped to unify the School. John “J.S.” Stephens even referred to Bridge as “USM’s Eisenhower who, like the former U.S. president, brought together disparate factions of the School and gave it a unified, competent image for the Milwaukee community.” Athletic success and a familiarity with discipline and tradition also helped to smooth the transition.

took shape. The arrivals of Ernie Brusubardis in 1970 and Dale Gutzman in 1972 helped bolster the programs and launched several successful careers in the performing arts, including the career of three-time Tony Award winning actor Mark Rylance Mark Waters ’78). “There was always a lot of talent here (at USM),” (Mark said Brusubardis. “You just needed to ﬁnd it and get the students involved. There was a lot of positive energy within the program at that time.” Together, Gutzman and Brusubardis collaborated to produce a series of musicals and took students on the road to places like Minneapolis, St. Louis, and Nashville, Tenn. to perform at other independent schools throughout the Midwest. “Our group grew from 32 students and only four boys when I ﬁrst started, to nearly 100 participants,” Brusubardis added. “We needed two buses to get to Nashville!”

In a letter fro m USM’s new Board of Trustees , it was stated that the merger would “provide a larger enrollment, greater breadth and depth of curriculum , a strengthened faculty, and overall excellence as a result of commo n leadership.”

Organizations such as Student Affairs, Model United Nations, and the food committee gave students more control over their academic environment, while others reflected specific student interests. This control reflected the popular culture of the 1960s and 1970s, as students began to challenge tradition and push for more freedom and independence within their educational experience.

Athletic Program Thrives

The USM athletic program excelled during the 1970s and 1980s, with the merger having strengthened what were already rich traditions of success on the playing ﬁelds. USM won conference championships in football and baseball, and earned state championships in track and ﬁeld, boys soccer, cross country, boys and girls tennis, and boys hockey.

Extracurricular Programs Emerge

The era also produced some decorated athletes. Von Mansﬁeld ’78 excelled as a three-sport athlete at USM before going on to play for the Wisconsin Badgers and Green Bay Packers in the 1980s. Lane MacDonald ’84 starred for USM’s football and hockey teams before serving as captain of Harvard’s hockey team. MacDonald also went on to play for the 1988 U.S. Olympic hockey team.

Following the assimilation of the predecessor schools, USM began to carve out its own unique identity. Extracurricular activities thrived during the 1970s as the most popular of those extracurricular offerings, USM’s arts and drama programs, both

However, few programs in the state reached the level of Jim Laing’s boys’ and girls’ tennis teams. After being named boys’ tennis head coach in 1964, Laing’s teams won 36 Midwest Classic conference titles, 10 Wisconsin Independent School Athletic

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Association (WISAA) team titles and 24 WISAA state individual titles. Laing also coached girls tennis, beginning in 1971, and won 41 WISAA state individual titles and 12 WISAA state team titles—an all-time record. “Coach Laing was an incredible role model who kept things in perspective for us as players,” said Liz Cyganiak ’91 in USM Today following Laing’s retirement in 2000. “He helped us on and off the courts. He had energy, spirit, and a great sense of humor that he shared with us during matches, practices, and on the team bus.”

to increase the Endowment stalled progress on the plan. In 1983, a comprehensive plan to raise money for unification and to increase the Endowment was announced, and the North Campus Development Fund raised nearly $11 million, the largest amount of money ever raised in an independent day school building campaign at that time. After years of careful planning and consideration, the USM campus finally united as one on June 8, 1985, as the South Campus formally moved to the North Campus in River Hills during an Olympic-style “June Jog” ceremony. The USM flag

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That excellence still carries on at USM today, as the School was named the 2013 Interscholastic Sports Program of Excellence, won the Wisconsin Sports Network Cup, and earned distinction as Boys’ Athletic Program of the Year, awarded by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. USM is a perennial state power in boys hockey, girls and boys tennis, and ﬁeld hockey.

was lowered for the last time at ed to o the Whitefish Bay campus and passed prefects Michael Grebe ’85 and Maria Acevedo ’85, who led the four-and-one-half mile jog to River Hills, where the flag was raised again. A day of festivities to mark the occasion followed, as USM celebrated its standing as a singular, unified school.

“June Jog” completes campus consolidation as USM unites at River Hills campus

A Formula for Success

The consolidation of USM at its current River Hills campus had been a goal for the USM Board of Trustees since the merger, but plans to unify did not come together until the late 1970s. In 1978, the Board approved a $6 million fund drive to support uniﬁcation, but concerns over leaving the Whiteﬁsh Bay market and a desire

Lengthy streaks of success were not limited to the playing fields. An unprecedented run of success in the Academic Decathlon began in 1986, as USM won eight straight state championships and emerged as a national power in the event. Following an eighth-place finish in 1985 that represented USM’s first foray into the Academic Decathlon, USM came back with a vengeance in 1986. Fueled by their initial struggles, USM roared back with its

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first championship, and a streak of consecutive championships lasted through 1994, when USM o b was finally knocked of offf by Rufus King High School. USM finished as high as third overall nationally in 1988, and won back-to-back small school national championships in 1992 and 1993. The success of the program was attributed to a strong work ethic on the part of USM students, who balanced their academic and athletic workloads with the demands of the Decathlon, as well as exemplary coaching from former faculty members John Horlivy, Carol Drummond, Conrad Van Voorst, Brian Pack, and Steve Bruemmer, among others. “(Coaches) Brian Pack and Steve Bruemmer were tremendous educators and even better people. Their enthusiasm for the material, and more importantly, the process of independent learning, was contagious,” said Donald Bae ’88, a member of the 1987 and 1988 state championship teams. “This combination of rigor, enthusiasm, generosity, and friendship was the foundation for any success we may have had.”

USM Embraces Technology Behind AAT Campaign, New Website In what was its first capital campaign in more than ten years, USM broke ground on a series of facility upgrades to enhance the arts, athletics, and technology (AAT) in the spring of 1995. The old Middle School gymnasium was converted into a new two-story Arts center, featuring studios for visual arts, music, drama, dance, band, and a new atrium. A new Middle School gymnasium was built adjacent to the Upper School gym. The first computer network to provide school-wide Internet access was introduced in 1996, beginning with 40 computers in the Middle School and Upper School. Classrooms, libraries, and other School computer labs were phased in later in that school year. Shortly thereafter, USM also introduced its first website, which was launched in May of 1997 and included information on admissions, curriculum, alumni/development, and items available

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at the School Store, as USM stayed on the cutting edge of emerging technology.

150 Years in Milwaukee USM celebrated a historic milestone in 2002, as former headmasters F. Gardiner F. Bridge, Robert Johnston, and Harvey Sperling, along with then-Head of School Ward Ghory joined students, parents, alumni, and current and former

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faculty members in celebration of USM’s sesquicentennial, marking 150 years since the opening of Milwaukee’s GermanEnglish Academy. The occasion was celebrated at the “Evening to Remember,” sesquicentennial reception held at the Midwest Express Center (now the Wisconsin Center). The reception featured a performance by the USM String Orchestra, “150 Years” videos produced by USM students, and the opportunity to dance to the Ernie Brusubardis Band. Ahead of the celebration, USM’s administrative hallway was transformed into “Heritage Hall,” featuring a photo display that reﬂected the School’s rich history. Alumni volunteers organized and identiﬁed photos from the archives and selected and hung them throughout the administrative wing.

USM Ushers In “Next Generation” By the mid-2000s, USM had several identifiable facility needs. After years of careful study and planning, the School launched the Next Generation Campaign in March of 2005. The main components of this dynamic campaign resulted in the Upper School addition that now houses the multi-functional Mellowes Hall and six state-of-the-art science laboratories, the USM Fitness Center, and upgrades to the Polly and Henry Uihlein Ice Arena. As construction began, School-wide curricular enhancements were made to ensure an education in the sciences that was second-to-none. A second phase of the campaign began in 2009 and helped to revitalize the Lower School and Middle School. The three-story addition to the Lower School included additional classrooms to house grades 2-4, a computer lab, world language classrooms, offices for the Lower School guidance counselor and the Parents’ Association, additional tutoring and Learning Center space, and the Marion and Verne Read Gymnasium. Phase II also included a series of robust new additions for the Middle School, including the Middle School Commons, a flexible, multi-functional work space for groups of students to congregate, work, and socialize. A large study hall fully equipped with computers was also built adjacent to the Commons for a private work area. The final Middle School component was the creation of a new Digital Media Studio, where students were able to utilize the most current Macintosh technology for an expanding array of fine arts curriculum that included filmmaking, Web 2.0 tools, and digital art. Addressing the outlined objectives to recruit, retain, and develop the best faculty in the region; to update aging and dated facilities and support program initiatives; and to increase the endowment for School programs, scholarships, and financial aid, USM’s Next

Generation Campaign was a great success that positioned the School well for years to come.

USM Students Excel at International Science Fair Perhaps not coincidentally, during this same time period several USM students made their mark in the field of science at the very highest international level. The Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) is the world’s largest pre-college science competition. Millions of students worldwide enter the competition each year in local and school-sponsored science fairs, with the winners advancing to regional and state fairs at which the best earn the opportunity to attend the Intel ISEF. USM is in the midst of an incredible run of success on the international level, as the following 10 students have received awards at the competition since 2003: Laura Jones ’05, Joseph Crivello ’06, Michael Pizer ’06, Cristina Costantini ’07, Spencer Greaves ’07, Anna Shimshak ’09, Meredith Marks ’11, Ashton Wackym ’12, Kern Khanna ’13, and Dominique Tlomak ’14. Pizer earned an ISEF award during all four of his years in Upper School, and took home the first place prize in Physics in 2005. He was also awarded the Intel Achievement Award, given to only 12 of 1,434 entered projects, at the fair. Thanks to the first class facilities and top-notch faculty guidance, USM scientists figure to continue to perform well at the Intel ISEF for many future years.

A Strategic Plan for the Future Today, USM continues to provide an excellent educational experience to a diverse student body, preparing them for a lifetime of success. Through its new Strategic Plan, USM aspires to enhance existing academic programs for current and future students, ensure its long-term ﬁnancial stability, strengthen relationships both internally and externally, and earn the reputation as a thought leader and resource for primary and secondary education in the greater Milwaukee and national and international communities. This Strategic Plan represents a bold step forward for the School and, combined with USM and its predecessor schools’ legacies of excellence, will ensure vibrant success for the School that will extend for another 50 years and beyond.

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Six Earn Wright Family Distinguished Faculty Award Honors USM’s Wright Family Distinguished Faculty Awards honor excellent teachers, who by virtue of expertise, dedication, and extension of self, exemplify the highest standards of independent school teaching. These teachers serve as mentors, as inspirations to colleagues and students, and as role models in the community. Since 1992, the Wright Family Distinguished Faculty Award Fund has existed within USM’s Endowment, providing professional development support to faculty thanks to the thoughtful generosity of the Wright family. The following faculty members (two per division) are honored for their exemplary work as 2014 Wright Family Distinguished Faculty Award Recipients.

Wright Award Winners From left Lower School Learning Center Teacher Kevin Linzmeier, Upper School Math Teacher and Department Chair Steve Bertucci, Preprimary Program and Lower School Physical Education Teacher Jane Keily, Upper School English Teacher and Department Chair Elaine Grifﬁn, 7th-grade English Teacher Hannah Reimer, and Middle School Science Teacher Kip Jacobs ’74.

JANE KEILY

KEVIN LINZMEIER

Preprimary Program and Lower School Physical Education Teacher Jane Keily is a faculty member and department chair who “quietly and expertly leads with a positive, collaborative spirit.” Her departmental focus is on helping students “pursue a lifetime of healthful physical activity.”

Lower School Learning Center Teacher Kevin Linzmeier is recognized for his dedication to improving student outcomes and providing crucial academic support to ensure the success of all Lower School students.

Working alongside longtime colleague, Preprimary Teacher Margie Voss, Keily believes that physical education works in tandem with academics and plays a critical role in the education of the whole child. “The beneﬁts of physical education can affect both academic learning and physical activity patterns of students. The healthy, physically active student is more likely to be academically motivated, alert, and successful,” Keily said. “In the preschool and primary years, active play may be positively related to motor abilities and cognitive development.” Keily is a model for the high standards of independent school teaching—a hard-working, collaborative, creative expert whose constant smile lets all of us know that she loves what she does year after year. 14

Linzemeier’s collaborative work with his colleagues has been instrumental in several important changes to the Lower School curriculum. Presently, every teacher in senior kindergarten through 4th grade has been trained in the Daily 5/CAFÉ framework for reading. “This framework gives students ample opportunity to practice what they are learning and to build their reading and writing stamina,” Linzmeier said. “The CAFÉ component of the reading block consists of mini-lessons that reinforce strategies needed for developing comprehension, accuracy, ﬂuency, and vocabulary.” Linzmeier models leadership through the extension of self and his dedication to his own learning that exempliﬁes the highest standards of independent school teaching.

USM TODAY | FALL 2014

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KIP JACOBS ’74

STEVE BERTUCCI

Whether you need a garden planted, a workbench made for the maker space, or a recycling program implemented throughout the School, Middle School Science Teacher Kip Jacobs ’74 is your man.

Upper School Math Teacher and Department Chair Steve Bertucci is known as a passionate and ﬁery supporter of his students and the math department.

A lifelong learner, Jacobs is ready to jump in wherever he is needed, and is never afraid to adapt and change. “As a teacher you have to be willing to take risks and have your ﬁnger on the pulse of what you teach,” Jacobs said. “Science is always changing, and I feel that I need to be willing to change with it. Not everything will work, but that’s OK. That is the basis of the scientiﬁc method.”

What is not as widely known is how often Bertucci gives of himself freely, compassionately, and selflessly. He is the ideal colleague. He gives good and constructive feedback, fights hard for his department as a Chair, maintains an objective perspective in regard to institutional prerogatives, and volunteers quickly to take on extra work or manage difficult situations. However, the most important reason that Bertucci is deserving of this award is for his work with students. He is known for his ability to help students make connections between the math concepts he teaches and their real-world application.

Jacobs has also been eager to embrace new technology. Using an array of new tools and devices, Jacobs has generated electronic labs, utilized Google Docs for collaboration, and sought new ways to incorporate the latest technology into his curriculum.

“I try to mix in a little humor with the math to break up the lesson, and ﬁnd a common chord that might resonate with them,” Bertucci said.

Jacobs is a consummate professional who is respected by his colleagues as well as his students and their parents. He is a highenergy teacher who inﬂuences colleagues to grow professionally and to uphold USM standards.

In addition to those connections, Bertucci is always willing to provide his students with extra help, working with many students before and after school. It is an honor to recognize an educator as dedicated to his students, and teaching, as Bertucci is.

HANNAH REIMER

ELAINE GRIFFIN

Transitioning from the corporate world to the realm of education, Hannah Reimer has brought a tireless work ethic, creativity, talent, and high expectations to her role as 7th-grade English teacher.

Upper School English Teacher and Department Chair Elaine Grifﬁn is marked by her calm, quick wit, and devotion to her students. She is a highly respected teacher whose students look forward to class because of her special mastery at guiding collaborative round-table discussions. In addition, Grifﬁn works tirelessly to help students improve their writing skills.

Reimer has always been inspired to move forward in her profession, and her professional development record speaks to that quest of continual improvement in order to best serve her students. “One of the things that drew me to USM was the emphasis on professional development,” Reimer said. “There are a lot of networks around the city, and I was able to build relationships and connections that have beneﬁtted my curriculum. Those connections are all thanks to professional development and the wonderful support that we receive here.” Reimer’s network of experts and artists has been instrumental in building her unit on genocide, culminating in the memorial project that her students work on during much of the second semester each year. Students work closely with architects, artists, and professors from the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design to hone their projects, and then present their ﬁnal memorials to a professional panel.

“Students need to be shown what good writing looks like and how effective arguments are structured,” Griffin said. “In class, we use a technique called ‘workshopping a paper’ in which student drafts are examined and critiqued by the whole class.” Griffin is also willing to consider all perspectives and put herself in her students’ shoes. She elected to take several Spanish courses at USM in order to better understand the workload and perspective of her students. “Being a student means being vulnerable, and teachers often forget that,” Griffin said. “I’m much more empathetic having been a student so recently.”

To learn more about the Charles F. Wright Technology and Innovation in Teaching Awards, also given by USM, visit www.usmk12.org/news.

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Steve Johnson brings passion, experience to USM orchestra program

USM TODAY | FALL 2014

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“Music is my passion,” Johnson said. “I love sharing that passion, both as a performer, as well as with my students.” First-year orchestra teacher Steve Johnson believes

is his voice. He is currently a member of Midwest

that music education nourishes a child’s growth and

Vocal Express, an international award-winning male

development, and in his thirty years of experience

a cappella chorus. His diverse interests and

working with students across musical disciplines, he

experiences also include a marching band performance

has seen that impact ﬁrsthand. Research shows that

in the Tournament of Roses’ Rose Parade—a career

experiences in music education enhance student

highlight. Johnson served as assistant director for

learning by strengthening important cognitive functions,

the band.

including the ability to pay close attention and think

“Music is my passion,” Johnson said. “I love sharing

critically, and have also been linked to improving a child’s

that passion, both as a performer, as well as with

physical and intellectual development. But he describes

my students.”

an additional outcome of a quality music education.

A little inspiration is sometimes required. The

“The sense of accomplishment that a student feels

complexity involved in learning a musical instrument

after mastering a challenging passage is very rewarding

and the time commitment required to master it can

for the student,” Johnson said. “The pride that develops

be challenging.

is so important to a student’s sense of self.”

Johnson encourages his students, telling them,

Johnson works with USM students in all three

“You’ve got to learn to budget your time. That’s an

divisions. He teaches Upper School and Middle School

important life skill. But you’ve also got to give yourself

Orchestra, and works in an after-school setting with two

permission to fail. I always tell the students that

orchestras in the Lower School—one for beginners, and

permission to fail leads to success. When you ﬁrst

one for those with some experience.

start working on a piece, I’m giving you permission

“A great thing about leading an orchestra program

to not do it correctly, so give yourself permission to

that works with students across grade-leveIs is that I

not do it correctly. But as you practice, you’ll work out

get to see the students develop and grow over time,

the bugs and you will be successful. That applies to

both as individuals and as musicians,” Johnson said.

lots of things outside of music, too. So you see, music

Johnson’s own interest in music stems from growing

builds skills that transfer to academics, athletics, and

up in a musical family. As a child he played piano,

life in general—whether you know it or not. I’m sneaky

tuba, and later, violin. Another instrument of choice

like that!”

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“First, I believe strongly in independent school education. Second, being able to come back home to Wisconsin was a major draw. Third, I get to work for one of the top independent schools in the country.”

Leadership: Why does the tyranny of immediate demands overwhelm the imperative of addressing the larger challenges the future demands? Working at USM is a real boon for Peters, both professionally as well as personally. He enjoys the fact that his job is to promote the best school in the state. Reﬂecting on his new

USM Welcomes New Director of Enrollment Management

position at USM, he recalls one of his favorite quotes from the former head of the National Association of Independent Schools, Pat Bassett: “Leadership: Why does the tyranny of immediate demands overwhelm the imperative of addressing the larger challenges the future demands?” Peters believes that having a position that allows him to focus on sustainability

When Eric Peters accepted his position as director of enrollment

in enrollment—and ultimately the sustainability of quality

and ﬁnancial aid at The Tatnall School, he told his head of

enrollment for future years—is what will lead USM to

school he would only leave for one of two reasons: if he

continued success.

was offered a head of school position at another school, or if University School of Milwaukee came calling.

USM is also a place he feels he can plant roots. Peters’ wife, Shannon, was hired as a senior kindergarten assistant

Peters answered that call this past summer when he was hired

teacher at the School, and their twin daughters, Bella ’28 and

as USM’s director of enrollment management. He comes to

Monica ’28, are in junior kindergarten. He and his family are

USM with work experience that varies geographically, but has

already feeling part of this welcoming community. They look

always been focused on enrollment. He began his career

forward to the drive to campus each morning and are excited

working in college admissions at three universities, but missed

to become even more involved in the School community and

the close daily contact with students. It was then that he made

its traditions for years to come.

the transition to independent schools by taking a position as dean of admission and college counseling at Wayland

“I see USM as a lifestyle, not just a job. I love this school and

Academy in Wisconsin—his home state. He then transitioned

relocated from Delaware to be here because I see this as a

to a similar position at Tatnall in 2010, prior to joining USM.

‘forever school.’ I can’t say enough about how happy I am to be here.”

When asked why he pursued a role with USM, Peters responded that he came here for a few main reasons.

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How has USM impacted our lives? This year, in celebration of “50 Years of USM,” and in preparation for the next 50 years and beyond, University School of Milwaukee is focused on increasing contributions through the Annual Giving Program to support USM’s mission. As the members of the USM community consider their ongoing support of the School, we ask everyone to consider: How has USM impacted your life? Starting here with the co-chairs of the Annual Giving Program, Margy Stratton Norman ’84 and Greg Smith, we are learning that every person has his or her own reasons for giving. What are your reasons for supporting our School?

“Since joining the USM community ﬁve years ago, my wife and I have felt strongly about the Annual Giving Program, as it ensures that the exceptional educational experiences that our children have received so far will be available for them in the years to come, as well as for others. “One of the most important aspects of the Annual Giving Program is the support it provides our dedicated faculty, whether Greg Smith through support for salaries or by providing the most innovative instructional tools. The Annual Giving Program also contributes to our ability to maintain and upgrade our world-class facilities and build reserves for future maintenance and improvement needs. “Margy and I want the USM community to recognize that any gift they can give is truly appreciated and makes a positive and immediate difference to the education of our children.” Greg Smith and his wife, Nancy, are the parents of Charlie ’17, Lauren ’19, and Harrison ’22. Additionally, Smith is a new member of the USM Board of Trustees.

Margy Stratton Norman ’84

“After celebrating my 30th USM reunion this fall, I realized that still quite fresh in my mind are many academic and athletic memories from my years at USM. It is because of memories such as Mrs. Read reading “The Yearling,” to us on the rug in Lower School, visiting authors signing books to me at the Book Fair each year, and memorizing sonnets for Mrs. Hill—along with lessons learned from motivating coaches such as Mr. Bruemmer—that I cannot imagine my children learning anywhere else at this time in their lives.

2014-2015 Annual Giving Cabinet Members of the Annual Giving Cabinet are ambassadors of the School’s Annual Giving Program. These volunteer leaders work together to solicit support for the School from alumni, faculty, parents, grandparents, staff, parents of alumni, and friends. We are so grateful for their tremendous efforts! Co-Chairs Greg Smith Margy Stratton Norman ’84 Grandparent Division Co-Chairs Carol and Bob Puetz Alumni Division Co-Chairs F.R. Dengel III ’83 Natasha Misra ’04 Parent of Alumni Co-Chairs Fred Geilfuss ’71 and Anne Hamilton Faculty and Staff Division Lower School Patti Ptak Middle School Adam Moreno Upper School Rebecca Schwartz Administrative Staff Julie Piwowarczyk

“These fond memories are why my husband and I send our children to USM. Annual Giving supports the very types of experiences that inspired me and that foster lifelong intellectual curiosity. By serving in this role, I hope to help ensure that the students at USM come away from this great place with fond memories and a deep love of learning.” Margy Stratton Norman ’84 and her husband Greg Norman are the parents of Ellie ’19, Mimi ’21 and Annie ’25. Active in the Parents’ Association for many years, Stratton Norman is currently co-chairing the author visits for the PA. 19

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1. Exceptional education changes lives 2. USM is your community 3. Develop tomorrow’s leaders 4. To honor someone special 5. Pride in your alma mater 6. Passionate and inspiring teachers 7. Outstanding curriculum 8. Designate your gift 9. Gifts are vital to USM’s revenue 10. It feels good 11. Celebrate students’ academic excellence 12. Fuel intellectual curiosity 13. Gifts are immediate and impactful 14. Empower our students 15. Spark curiosity 16. Create vibrant student life 17. Rich fine arts experiences in all grades 18. It’s your way to give back 19. USM is a top college-preparatory school 20. Prepare students for the future 21. Help fund a future Nobel Prize winner 22. Your employer matches your gifts 23. Innovative educational practices 24. Inspire School spirit 25. Incredible ﬁeld trips 26. Championship athletic achievements 27. Create a welcoming, inclusive environment 28. Children are our future 29. Enable alumni to live purposeful lives 30. Supplies for our little Picassos 31. Help set an Annual Giving Program record 32. USM science labs drive innovation 33. Exceptional extracurricular activities 34. Help write USM’s story for the next 50 years 35. Impactful student retreats 36. Encourage a lifelong love of learning 37. Foster critical thinking in students 38. Cause spontaneous smiles 39. Support hands-on experiential learning 40. Impact every student, teacher, and classroom 41. The Common Trust philosophy 42. Changing the world begins here 43. Athletic opportunities for all students 44. Tuition alone doesn’t cover the cost of a USM education 45. Make a difference 46. Make a worthwhile investment 47. Giving is contagious (and deductible) 48. Innovative technology 49. Help shape global citizens 50. USM has impacted your life

www.usmk12.org/annualgiving | 414.540.3336

USM TODAY | FALL 2014

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How has USM impacted your life? As members of our community—parents, alumni, grandparents, parents of alumni, faculty or staff members, or supportive friends—you understand and value USM’s tradition of academic excellence. During this milestone anniversary year, in honor of “50 Years of USM,” consider what you cherish the most about our School, and ﬁnd your own meaningful reason to join our community of donors. While in the past we’ve asked for Annual Giving Program support throughout the year, our “50 Years of USM” effort will be featured from November 3 through December 31, 2014. Please consider making your gift today. Together, we can ensure USM’s continued success, both this year and for the next 50 years and beyond.

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Creativity, Vision Spur Success Liz Allen ’84

From delivering singing telegrams in college to delivering marketing plans for Apple’s Steve Jobs, life has always been about enthusiasm, hard work, and most importantly, a clear vision for Liz Allen ’84. “I’ve been lucky enough to work with some world-class companies and brands,” Allen said. “I’ve noticed that I gravitate towards creative opportunities and challenges that appreciate a strong work ethic.” Allen currently serves as the chief marketing officer for At Home Group Inc., leading a rebranding effort for a series of home décor superstores, and has an extensive background directing marketing efforts for several high-profile organizations. After graduating from Butler University, Allen worked for ad agencies in San Francisco and New York, servicing accounts for Levi’s and Sprint, among other clients. She was then recruited for the position of director of marketing at Boston Market, where she managed five agencies as the brand steward. But it was upon her return to San Francisco in 1997 that Allen received an opportunity of a lifetime, as she was hired to work alongside Silicon Valley luminary Steve Jobs to help rebuild Apple Computers worldwide. “In my four years at Apple, we resurrected a company and created ideas that I was really passionate about,” Allen said. “During that time, I built an incredible 160-person team that developed all facets of the worldwide marketing for Apple, including the Apple stores, Apple.com, e-commerce, product names, and packaging. It was all-consuming and amazing.” After Apple, Allen ran marketing for LucasArts, the video game arm of the George Lucas/Star Wars empire, and then moved to executive roles with The Gap and Cost Plus World Market before settling in with At Home. The origin of much of Allen’s marketing savvy can be traced back to the balance and scope of her educational experiences at USM. “I think USM was really great at providing a liberal arts foundation and nurtured my creative and analytical abilities in

Liz Allen ’84

tandem,” Allen said. “There were so many opportunities available, in and out of the classroom, to try new things and stretch my interests and talents.” Allen credits former Drama Director Dale Gutzman and former Upper School Music Teacher Ernie Brusubardis for her ability to create and execute a marketing campaign, much like a ﬁne arts performance. “Being a lead marketer is much like directing a performance— setting a vision, inspiring others, and bringing all the details together to create something fabulous for your audience.” In retrospect, Allen felt as though she could try and excel at anything at USM, and credits the breadth of her academic and extracurricular offerings as foundational to her future success. “Overall, my School experience instilled a great work ethic in me and encouraged me to always be curious and open to learning. I don’t think you can ask for much more than that.” To read an extended Q and A with Liz Allen ’84, visit www.usmk12.org/alumniproﬁles.

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Charlie Wright Jr. ’04

Committed to Community, School, and Family Business Charlie Wright Jr. ’04 has taken an unusual path back home to the Milwaukee area, transitioning from an English major living on the east coast to his current role as sales and marketing manager at Rheocast Co., a die casting facility. The greater Milwaukee community, and University School of Milwaukee, are glad that he did. While studying English at Boston College, where he graduated Cum Laude in 2008, Wright spent summers shoveling sand in the brass foundry of his family’s business, the Fall River Group. Wright was instantly hooked on the heat of the furnace and the glowing molten brass, leading to his path from studying literature to sales at Rheocast. “An English degree might not seem like a natural ﬁt for manufacturing, but it enables me to think critically when analyzing business issues, and to think about how to tackle production challenges in a logical way,” Wright said. Wright has stayed connected with USM since graduation, serving on the Alumni Association Board, making annual giving calls, and attending local alumni events. He is active in the greater Milwaukee community, as he serves on the Board of Directors of Goodwill Industries and on the Development Committee of the Milwaukee Public Museum. He also manages a charity fund at the Greater Milwaukee Foundation. “After graduating from college and moving back to Wisconsin, I wanted to reconnect with the School,” Wright said. “I have great memories growing up at USM, and I wanted to get involved to help support the organization in its educational mission because my experience was so positive.” One of those local alumni events he attended was Reunion Weekend 2014, where Wright reunited with his classmates from

Charlie Wright Jr. ’04

the Class of 2004 to learn more about each individual’s journey since they parted ways as seniors. “One of USM’s greatest assets is the high quality of your classmates,” Wright said prior to the Weekend’s events. “I’m really looking forward to learning about the interesting and diverse paths that my classmates have taken over the past 10 years. I’m eager to hear about their accomplishments in life after School.” Reﬂecting on his time at USM, Wright most misses his engagement with faculty members on a daily basis. “I truly get nostalgic when I think about everything I learned from my teachers, and how well-rounded their instruction was,” Wright said. “Their passion and dedication stimulates excellence not only in academics, but also in extracurricular activities.” As the School celebrates “50 Years of USM,” Wright is excited for the future here. “The School looks very different today from when I graduated in 2004. There are additions and renovations happening all over the place,” Wright said. “It’s a very exciting time and I would like to see the School continue to invest in its facilities, especially in its creative spaces like the art studios and theater.”

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Reunion Weekend September 18-20, 2014 For the ﬁrst time in over two decades, University School of Milwaukee celebrated Reunion Weekend in September, uniting with Homecoming to bring the entire USM community together in honor of “50 Years of USM.”

MCD Class of

1964

Alumni enjoyed touring the School and taking in several classes, including this one led by former faculty member John “J.S.” Stephens during Friday’s Back-to-School Day.

MDS Class of 1964

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Thursday and Friday Events Festivities kicked off on Thursday with the annual Welcome Reception at the Milwaukee Country Club, where USM and predecessor school alumni enjoyed reconnecting and reminiscing with fellow classmates and former teachers. Several milestone reunion classes held their class parties to coincide with the reception, a lovely start to their multi-day gatherings. On Friday, USM welcomed alumni to campus to experience a day in the life of a student. Alumni from the Class of 1964 and earlier enjoyed the Classics Breakfast, at which Head of School Laura Fuller provided an update about the School. The Breakfast was followed by campus tours led by current students and faculty members. Alumni relished the opportunity to engage in the classrooms and enjoyed connecting with students and faculty. USM also welcomed retired faculty members Mary “Peetie” Basson and John “J.S.” Stephens, who both led engaging lessons in their areas of expertise with many of their former students. Alumni then cheered alongside current students during the All-School Homecoming Pep Rally. To cap off the day’s events, alumni joined current USM families for food, fun, and fellowship during the All-School BBQ prior to the Homecoming football game.

Several milestone reunion classes gathered at Thursday evening’s Welcome Reception at the Milwaukee Country Club.

D, MDS, Members of the MC

1959 and MUS Classes of

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Alumni took in a series of USM Homecoming athletic events on Saturday morning, followed by the Varsity Club Luncheon featuring Von MansďŹ eld â&#x20AC;&#x2122;78 (third from left below).

The Class of 2004 and the Class of 1979 enjoyed their individual class parties on Saturday evening.

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Saturday Events Continuing the festivities on Saturday morning, alumni had the rare opportunity to enjoy a guided bus tour of Milwaukee Country Day School, Milwaukee Downer Seminary, Milwaukee University School, and the German English Academy. Led by Lower School Art Teacher Bob Geniusz and Carolyn and John “J.S.” Stephens, the tour included a trip through several downtown Milwaukee landmarks and visits at the predecessor schools’ former locations. On-campus events concluded on Saturday afternoon with former Badgers and Packers standout Von Mansﬁeld ’78, who delivered an engaging presentation at the Varsity Club Luncheon. The luncheon also featured the announcement of the Varsity Club Athletic Hall of Fame, with the ﬁrst class to be inducted at a special banquet on June 6, 2015. A special thanks goes out to the milestone reunion coordinators for their efforts in planning and hosting their various class-organized parties at homes and local venues throughout the remainder of the weekend, where the celebrations continued. USM appreciates all of the alumni who participated in the festivities. Be sure to mark your calendar and plan to join us from September 24-27 for Reunion Weekend 2015!

Alumni enjoyed a guided bus tour of the former Milwaukee Country Day School, Milwaukee Downer Seminary, and Milwaukee University School campuses on Saturday morning (three photos at right).

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In Memoriam USM wishes to acknowledge and celebrate the lives of our dearly departed alumni and friends. We thank them for enriching our lives throughout their friendship.

William L. Randall MUS’48 passed away peacefully on June 23, 2014 at the age of 83. Randall excelled at tennis during his tenure at Milwaukee University School and was awarded “greatest contributor of the year” award upon graduation. He later received his bachelor’s degree from Dartmouth College and a law degree from the University of Michigan Law School before serving as an attorney and banker for 37 years, retiring as president and chairman at U.S. Bank. A lifelong advocate for public service, Randall was a founder and first president of the United Performing Arts Fund; chairman of the Performing Arts Center and Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee; a trustee of the Medical College of Wisconsin; a trustee and board chairman of the Faye McBeath Foundation; and director of numerous organizations, including Alverno College and Milwaukee Academy of Science. At 35, Randall was the youngest president in the history of the Rotary Club of Milwaukee, and was recognized with honorary degrees from the Milwaukee School Of Engineering and the Medical College of Wisconsin. Randall also founded USM’s Alumni Association Board in 1964 and served as its first president in 1964 and 1965. He was recognized as the Alumnus of the Year in 1968, an annual award that preceded the current Alumni Service Award. Randall is survived by his wife of 59 years, Wendy Shea Randall MDS’50; daughters Rebecca Randall (Paul Gigot) and Cynthia Randall (Paul Albrecht); sons Kip (Karen) and Kevin (Lynn); a sister, Judy Randall Thompson MUS’51; and five grandchildren.

Cindy Zautcke spent a peaceful afternoon and evening with the family she loved, and drew her last, gentle breath on June 4, 2014. Zautcke received her bachelor’s degree in German and English from Luther College, and earned her master’s in education at Vanderbilt University. She displayed an unwavering passion for education that included work as a teacher, school founder, classroom volunteer, and charter school advocate. Returning to Milwaukee in 1990, she taught at-risk students at Grand Alternative

High School, and helped found El Puente High School. Zautcke later lobbied for the state’s ﬁrst charter school law, and served as a policy expert, resource, advocate, and leader for charter schools in Milwaukee. Over the past 10 years, Zautcke became a parent, committed volunteer, and leader at University School of Milwaukee, where she recognized and helped support a community of gifted and passionate teachers who shaped the lives of her children. To honor her legacy and commitment to education, the ZautckeOstermeyer family has established the Cindy Zautcke Memorial Scholarship Fund at USM with the goal of supporting students from the city of Milwaukee wishing to attend the School. The scholarship will be awarded to a student from a low- to middle-income family that demonstrates outstanding achievement in academics, character, leadership, and community service. Zautcke is survived by her husband of 29 years, Michael Ostermeyer; children Billy ’11, John ’16, and Liz ’17; sister Katy Zautcke Thomas; mother Ranae Zautcke Stavish, nieces, nephews, cousins, colleagues, and countless friends.

Charles Sprague passed away on June 22, 2014, at the age of 64, at home surrounded by his loving family and friends, after a brief but valiant battle with esophageal cancer. As part of his lifelong dedication to education, Sprague served as a University School of Milwaukee Trustee from 2002-2007, holding positions on the Finance and Development Committees of the Board. He was also a member of both the School’s Next Generation Campaign and Annual Giving Cabinets. Some of his favorite memories included joining students at Lower School and Middle School lunch tables, watching USM theater productions, and following the USM boys’ hockey team to state. He believed in “History Rules” and the beneﬁts of a Harkness roundtable discussion. Sprague was raised in Short Hills, N.J. and graduated from The Pingry School in 1967 and Yale University in 1971. After a year of service in the New Jersey National Guard, he matriculated to New York University, where he earned joint JD-MBA degrees in 1976. He moved to the Milwaukee area in 1994 to serve as general counsel and executive vice president at Fiserv. He retired in February 2014. Sprague was passionate about reading and learning and served on the Milwaukee

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Public Library’s Foundation Board since 2007. He was also a founding member of the General Counsel Forum of Milwaukee. He is survived by his loving wife of 29 years, Mary Hamilton Sprague, beloved daughter Martha H. Sprague Heitman ’06, son-in-law Timothy Heitman ’06, and brother John Arthur Sprague.

Polly Haebler Van Dyke MDS’51 passed away on August 17, 2014 at the age of 80. Van Dyke was born in New Rochelle, N.Y. in 1933, attended Milwaukee Downer Seminary through 11th grade, and graduated from the Masters School in Dobbs Ferry, N.Y. in 1951. She attended Connecticut College and later graduated from Stanford University in 1955. Van Dyke was a member of the University School of Milwaukee Board of Trustees from 1968-1978 and served as president from 1973-1976. She also served as a trustee on the Endowment Board and received the Alumni Service Award in 1997. Through their generosity over the years, Polly and her husband William MCD’49 established the William and Polly Van Dyke Scholarship Fund and the William and Polly Van Dyke Endowment Fund, and were members of the USM Heritage Society as a result of their deferred gift commitment. Thanks to their thoughtful generosity, their Funds will continue to support USM students and faculty in perpetuity. Van Dyke was very active in the Milwaukee community, and served on the Board of the Milwaukee Foundation; the Board of Directors at Columbia Hospital and the Planned Parenthood Association of Wisconsin; and the Board of Trustees at Carroll College. She was also actively involved with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and the Green Tree Garden Club. Van Dyke was preceeded in death by her husband William and her sister Ann Haebler Frantz MDS’48. She is survived by her sister Ellen Haebler Skove MDS’45; daughters Kathryn Van Dyke ’75, Helen Van Dyke King ’79, and Ellen Van Dyke Holtgers ’81; and many nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and other relatives.

John Marshall “Jack” Olson ’67 passed away in Anchorage, Alaska on July 10, 2014 at the age of 65 after suffering a stroke while traveling with his family. Olson had a passion for English literature, which he studied at Princeton University and later at Oxford University. After earning his J.D. at Yale Law School, Olson practiced in the areas of Trusts & Estates and Securities law at Whyte Hirschboeck and later at Foley & Lardner, where he spent the bulk of his career before retiring in 2011. He was known as a trusted and respected advisor to clients, friends, and family. Olson loved hunting, ﬁshing, and spending time with his grandchildren. He served on the University School of Milwaukee Board of Trustees from 1980-1985. Olson is survived by his daughter Sarah Olson Zimmerman ’92 and son John ’95; brother Mark ’65; sister Dory ’70; and grandchildren Joe Zimmerman ’22, Nate Zimmerman ’25, Hedda, Maya, and Sarah Olson.

Constance Pember Godfrey died peacefully at home on August 4, 2014 at the age of 84. Born in Janesville, Wis., Godfrey was a dedicated mother to her three sons. She also was very active in the community and served as a board member or volunteer for the Old Indian Agency House, Henry Francis duPont Winterthur Museum, the Layton Art Collection, Kilbourn Town House, the Milwaukee Art Museum, Gunston Hall, the Colonial Dames of Wisconsin, the Junior League of Wisconsin, and the Woman’s Club of Wisconsin, among other charitable causes. Godfrey was preceded in death by her son Pieter ’77 and her husband Dudley Godfrey, Jr. She is survived by her sons Dudley III ’74 and Adam ’80, and by her ﬁve grandchildren Ella ’18 (attended through 8th grade in 2014), Mercy ’20, Connor, Alyssa, and Ryan.

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In Memoriam USM wishes to acknowledge and celebrate the lives of our dearly departed alumni and friends. We thank them for enriching our lives throughout their friendship.

1930s

William L. Guerin

William K. McKibbage

Florence Bruemmer Mahnke

MUS’47 September 12, 2014 Baraboo, Wis.

’69 March 11, 2013 Oakﬁeld, Wis.

MUS’33 August 11, 2014 Milwaukee

Walter A. Carlson MUS’35 September 4, 2014 Mequon, Wis.

Robert C. Brumder MCD’36 October 3, 2014 Hartland, Wis.

Thomas R. Hendee

Van A. Smith

MUS’47 August 12, 2014 New York

’69 July 14, 2014 Shorewood, Wis.

Francis D. Murphy MCD’49 November 23, 2013 San Anselmo, Calif.

1950s 1940s

Arthur M. Hewitt

William F. Pabst Jr.

MUS’51 July 11, 2014 Nashotah, Wis.

MCD’42 May 28, 2014 Port Ludlow, Wash.

Margaret Gregory Reiter MDS’42 August 15, 2014 Mequon, Wis.

Betty Heinemann Burns MUS’43 May 15, 2014 Milwaukee

Donald Simons MUS’43 May 10, 2014 Stevens Point, Wis.

John H. Sproule

Kathyrn Dineen Wriston MDS’56 September 28, 2014 New York

1980s Claire J. Ritchie ’85 August 31, 2014 Chicago

FRIENDS Peggie Hunkel Baumann Mother of Tom Baumann ’72, Barbara Baumann ’73, and Tracey Moore ’71; Grandmother of Geordy Baumann ’04 and Teddy Baumann ’09 September 19, 2014 River Hills, Wis.

1960s Jane Innes McGibbon MUS’63 July 18, 2014 New York

Stephen N. Inbusch ’67 July 5, 2014 Spring, Texas

MCD’45 August 20, 2014 Oconomowoc, Wis.

Updated as of October 20, 2014.

Marion Chester Read MDS’37 passed away and joined her beloved husband of 63 years Verne R. Read on October 21, 2014. Additional coverage of her life and contributions to University School of Milwaukee will appear in the Winter 2015 issue of USM Today.

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class notes THE FOLLOWING PAGE INCLUDES NEWS AND NOTES SUBMITTED PRIOR TO SEPTEMBER 15, 2014

To submit a class note: Email your news to alumni@usmk12.org

40s ALEXANDER L. PATERNOTTE MCD ’40 enjoys playing bridge and reading, and wants you to keep the USM news coming!

50s MARY POLLOCK MUELLER ’59 is newly remarried. She is sorry to be unable to attend her 55th reunion in Milwaukee. Her husband, Mike Boughton, is a Caltech physicist who retired from TRW. “Knowing what I didn’t learn from Downer in the sciences, this will give ‘the girls’ a laugh; I continue with art but now read SCIENCE magazine! My new last name is Mary Pollock Mueller Boughton.”

90s CURT THOMPSON ’94 is living in Seattle and has recently changed jobs. He was previously managing the ﬁeld marketing of vitaminwater for many years, but is now leading marketing efforts for ﬁrst aid shot therapy. It’s a small brand, but the company has big ambitions of changing the way people take their over-the-counter medication.

KATHRYNE MARTIN NELSON ’99 shared that “Last September, my husband and I became owners and directors of Camp Kamaji, a 100-year-old residential summer camp for girls located in Northern Minnesota. Kamaji is a homeaway-from-home for girls ages 7-15, and even for many USM alums such as Julia Housiaux Caldwell ’99, Kathy Jacobs Housiaux ’68, KK McGregor Neimann ’93, Jessica Nash ’06 and me! Jason and I are so excited to be the current caretakers of such a special place with so much wonderful history.”

00s JONATHAN R. LHOST ’00 received his Ph.D. from the University of Texas, and has accepted a teaching position at Lawrence University beginning in September. He covered the world, from Abu Dhabi to Oregon, with applications and will end up working 90 miles from home.

KATIE HINKLE AND TOM BURKE

STEPHANIE BLACK ’08 moved back to Milwaukee to pursue a Master of Science in Human Nutrition degree and become a registered dietitian. The program is online through Eastern Michigan University, and the internship component is here in Milwaukee with Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare.

IAN TONNER ’09

married Sarah Breunig on August 9 in Southwestern Wisconsin. From left 2009 Beck Andy Read, Read USM classmates Brianna Beck, John Luckey Jr. (front), Syed Medhi (behind), Ian Tonner, Tonner Arjun Sawhney (front), Michael Luckey (behind), Lauren Fredrick Fredrick, and Lauren Seesel. Seesel Ian is a process engineer with Babcock and Wilcox-Megtec Systems, and Sarah is an E-Commerce Digital Media Specialist with ShopKo. Ian and Sarah are both 2013 graduates of the University of Wisconsin-Madison and reside in DePere, Wis.

’03 were married in Milwaukee on Saturday, August 16. Tom is a Ph.D candidate in Cell and Molecular Biology at the University of Chicago, and Katie will be joining the Chicago ofﬁce of Sidley Austin LLP as an associate attorney in September. Many of their friends from the Class of 2003 joined in their celebration!

Save the date for two USM events in Longboat Key and Naples, Fla. on Thursday, February 12, 2015. Contact alumni@usmk12.org for more event information.

10s HALEY FLAGSTAD ’14

is a freshman at St. Norbert College and is a cheerleader for the Green Knights. She will also cheerlead for the Green Bay Packers during their 2014 season. Look for her at Lambeau Field when you’re there! 31

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Parents’ Association Board 2014-2015 President Niven Kingwill President-Elect Molly Fritz Treasurer Nancy Smith Secretary Lisa Wright Preprimary Coordinator Colleen Polston Lower School Coordinator Jane Lacy Middle School Coordinator Megan Wallskog

Parents’ Association Board Front from left Megan Wallskog, Jane Lacy, Lisa Wright, Parents’ Association President Niven Kingwill, Jennifer Reese, and Colleen Polston. Back from left Nancy Smith, Patricia Fritz Kauffman, Marie Tucker, Melissa Sheppard, Stacey Radke, Molly Fritz, Jennifer Schoon, and Kristin Sheehan.

Upper School Coordinator Marie Tucker

Parents’ Association: Our Parents Give Back

Nominations Coordinator Jennifer Reese

In 2007, I was a new parent at University School of Milwaukee, having just moved from the Chicago

Volunteer Coordinator Jen Schoon

was still spinning from adapting to a new city, house, and school, and yet even at that time, I felt

Communications Coordinator Melissa Sheppard

engaged parent community and the seemingly endless ways to get involved through the Parents’

Special Events Coordinator Sara LeBrun-Blashka Past-President Stacey Radke

area. My three boys were entering prekindergarten, senior kindergarten, and 2nd grade, my head

strongly that USM was the right place for us. I felt that even more after I discovered the incredibly

Association (PA).

Seven years later, I ﬁnd myself serving as the President of the PA, the umbrella organization through which parents collaborate and share their time and talents to help provide their children with the best educational experiences possible. The PA contributes approximately 18,000 volunteer hours to the life of the School each year, with two-thirds of these hours directly supporting teachers, administrators, students, and fellow parents, including activities such as assisting with the Preprimary and Lower School car circles, volunteering for Middle School lunch tables, and organizing Upper School dances, just to name a few.

The remaining third of our volunteer hours is devoted to fundraising, through a couple of large traditional events, such as Holiday Shops and Rummage at the Rink, as well as some smaller ones. Parents’ Association contributes the net proceeds of our fundraisers, which is currently around $225,000 per year, to the School for capital improvements. We spend an additional $40,000 annually sponsoring School programs and events on a class-wide, division-wide, or School-wide basis, including assemblies, author visits, Grandparents and Special Friends Day, and Arts Live. President Niven Kingwill

My involvement in the PA is a rewarding one, and I am humbled to serve in my role as President this year. I am proud of all the ways that our parents ﬁnd to give back to their children’s school, since their involvement is critical to the success of USM.

USM TODAY | FALL 2014

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Global Scholar Answers Call to “Assist Bhopal” Megan Dogra ’17 spends time with a small group in Bhopal, India.

Inspiration can come from a variety of places. For Megan Dogra ’17, it was an assembly speaker that inspired a ﬁerce call to action during her freshman year. Dr. Lalita du Perron, associate director of the Center for South Asia at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, gave a lecture addressing modern-day issues in India that struck a chord within Dogra, who had just recently joined USM’s Global Scholars Program. “Her passion and the issues she was involved with really inspired me,” Dogra said. Following the assembly, Dogra conducted her own research and discovered the tragedy and aftermath of the Bhopal gas leak disaster on December 3, 1984. More than 40 tons of methyl isocyante leaked from a carbide plant in Bhopal, India, forming a gas cloud over the city of 500,000 people. Gas inhalation killed more than 8,000 individuals, and that number grew to more than 20,000 over the weeks and months that followed. Waste from the leak still impacts families today, with an estimated 200,000 people, mostly children, suffering from chronic illnesses related to the leak. “I wanted to be the voice of these poor, unfortunate, and illiterate people who have been suffering for more than three decades,” Dogra said.

funds and awareness for the people of Bhopal. Dogra created a Facebook page to raise money for second- and third-generation victims of the leak, with proceeds benefitting a nutrition program that provides free meals at the Chingari Rehabilitation Center in Bhopal. Dogra also visited Bhopal this past March and met with survivors and their families. During her visit, she shot footage to be used for her documentary entitled “Assist Bhopal.” The film was shown at the Milwaukee Film Festival in September, as part of the Milwaukee Youth Show. “What really struck me from speaking with these families is the hope that they still have,” Dogra said. “Their spirit and resilience has truly stuck with me.” Dogra is also planning a benefit dinner with Ben York, USM’s service leaning coordinator, at the Bollywood Grill in downtown Milwaukee this December. “I witnessed so many powerful, moving experiences during my time at the clinics,” Dogra said. “I wanted to use the footage to provide a window for my audience to see what I saw and make a connection to those people.”

Dr. Henry Wend, director of USM’s Global Scholars Program, connected Dogra with du Perron, and those two got to work raising

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preprimary teachers “Think Big” during trip to Italy BY MARGARET MACKEDON BROWNE, SUE JEFFERS & JEN KEPPLER

From left: USM Preprimary Teachers Margaret MacKedon Browne, Sue Jeffers, and Jen Keppler traveled to Italy to learn more about the Reggio Emilia Approach to early childhood education.

Think Big Fund Thanks to the generosity of a USM family during the Next Generation Capital Campaign, the Think Big Fund was established as a named fund in USM’s Endowment. Since 2002, the Think Big Fund has provided substantial professional development opportunities for our faculty on an annual basis, distinguishing USM from our peer schools. This generous funding helps to attract and retain talented educational professionals and maintains USM’s position as an educational leader in the Milwaukee community.

USM TODAY | FALL 2014

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During last year’s frigid Milwaukee winter, as University School

and investigations. Children and teachers work together to ﬁnd

of Milwaukee was forced to declare several “cold days” due

answers to questions. Teachers observe and guide students, and

to the extreme weather, we decided to act upon our dream

document and revisit topics of interest to deepen understanding

to travel to Italy and learn more about the Reggio Emilia

and represent learning.

Approach to early childhood education. This Approach is an inspiring educational model in which children are viewed as

Our study tour in Italy was simply amazing. Each morning after

strong, capable, and competent. It puts into practice many

a long walk from our hotel, we gathered in the conference

of the fundamental aspects of the work of John Dewey, Jean

center—a space dedicated to the teaching of educators from

Piaget, Lev Vygotsky, and connects to the more recent work of

around the world—to discuss the approach. We met teachers

Howard Gardner’s multiple intelligence theory. The curriculum

from near and far, and collaborated and built relationships with

emerges from the interests of the children. The teachers act

early childhood educators from similar independent schools

as researchers by providing opportunities, materials, and a

in Illinois, Massachusetts, and Missouri. In the afternoon, we

framework for children to explore, problem-solve, and make

explored project-based learning exhibitions and visited area

conclusions, weaving skills and outcomes into the project work.

preschools. We found small schools with simple classrooms

The environment acts as the “third

where very purposeful learning

teacher” and enhances the

was taking place. The culture of

learning experience.

the city surrounding the schools

As USM continues to implement its Strategic Plan, based around learning in new and more creative ways, we were eager to observe,

Teaching is a profession for not thinking small.

discuss, and learn ﬁrst-hand

LORIS MALAGUZZI

was inspirational. We were struck by the lack of technology in the public setting, but amazed at the use of technology as a learning tool within the classrooms. Seeing the children engaged in learning within

in order to make authentic,

their environment was extremely

experiential learning the hallmark of

valuable. Evenings were spent

our Preprimary Program practice. A

exploring the city, networking with

cold day away from School gave us the time needed to begin

many educators, and, most importantly, discussing, reﬂecting,

a grant proposal that would soon take us to a quaint little

and digesting what we had learned during the day.

municipality in northern Italy where the youngest of children learn in some of the best early childhood programs in

Three months later, we continue to marvel at the experience we

the world.

had in Italy. We look forward to sharing what we’ve learned with fellow USM educators and our students and their families, and

In Reggio Emilia, children are thought to have many ways

integrating much of what we learned into our teaching practice.

of learning, showing understanding, and expressing their interests and creativity. These ways are referred to as “The

Our time together was wonderful and we bonded as colleagues,

Hundred Languages of Children,” and describe one hundred

happy to have shared this experience together. We are forever

ways of thinking, creating, dancing, singing, acting, exploring,

grateful to teach at a school that values professional development.

and learning. Teachers provide simple materials and guide

We were encouraged to “Think Big” and explore the world to

learning based on student interests, while children work

ﬁnd inspiration that will lead us to continue being the best we

collaboratively and gain knowledge through their explorations

can be, and we did just that.

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Students work through a text in Kate Gay’s 9th-grade English class.

Bringing Ideas to the Table: Inquiry, Exploration Thrive in Upper School Roundtable Discussions The presentation and exploration of ideas, a staple of University School of Milwaukee’s Upper School curriculum, is perhaps best personiﬁed in the School’s roundtable-style English and Humanities courses. Originated from the oval “Harkness” table popularized by the Phillips Exeter Academy beginning in the 1930s, the roundtable format allows for the exchange of ideas in an environment in which each student is an active participant. “Each class really becomes its own community, with its own ﬂavor and personality,” said 9th-Grade English Teacher Kate Gay. “As opposed to just responding to a question, students must actively prepare and engage with one another in class. In this way, everyone brings something to the conversation.”

Instead of setting up tables in rows facing a Smartboard and a lecturing teacher, the format brings all students face-to-face as they develop key verbal and non-verbal communication skills. It also encourages students—in an increasingly technology-centric educational era—to hone essential interpersonal skills and be present in the moment with their classmates. “Looking someone in the eye and explaining an idea in a clear, concise way will never go out of style,” said Upper School English Teacher and English Department Chair Elaine Grifﬁn. “That skill will always be essential. The format encourages students to be present in this era of technology and to develop conﬁdence in their ability to present contextual evidence and ask interpretive questions.”

USM TODAY | FALL 2014

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This shared-inquiry model allows daily discussion to be driven by student interests, since students are able to take the lead in presenting concrete evidence to support their thoughts, develop critical thinking skills to articulate their points, and utilize the freedom to find their own voice. However, the teacher still plays an essential role—as facilitator—to keep the group on task and discussion focused on the text. “My role is to ask provocative questions and bring the discussion back to the text,” Griffin said. “Our students always find fresh new ways to interpret the text, often unearthing ideas I hadn’t considered previously. I learn so much from them, and try to expose them to new ways of thinking as well. It’s about the process.” The method also has practical long-term value in preparing students to talk through and resolve problems in a group setting, a valuable skill in today’s job market. “It is great training in terms of developing public speaking and critical thinking skills, really some of those ‘board room skills,’ and learning how to debate and defend their ideas in a civil manner,” Griffin said. “At its core, the method teaches students how to think critically through literature.”

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“It’s all about building those positive connections through athletics and encouraging our young athletes to grow.” The USM boys’ tennis team capped USM’s 2013-2014 athletic season by winning the WIAA Division 2 state team championship for the eighth time in nine years in June.

After a season of honors, championships, and accolades, the University School of Milwaukee athletic program is hungry to build upon the success of the 2013-2014 season. “We were fortunate enough to be honored, in one year, for our overall institutional program as well as the success of our individual teams,” USM Athletic Director Rick Johns said. “It’s rare to be recognized for both.” That recognition included being named one of two recipients of the Interscholastic Sports Program of Excellence award by Coach and Athletic Director magazine, which honors the nation’s best programs for their overall commitment to promoting a positive experience for student-athletes. USM also earned two performance-based awards, as the program was honored by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel as a Program of the Year, and took home the Wisconsin Sports Network Cup in the small school division. Both awards were based on a points-system that rewarded competitive success in boys’ and girls’ sports. But 2014-2015 is a new year, and Johns is intent on ﬁnding ways to continue to grow the depth and richness of the program. “It’s great to have highs like this but we can’t rest on our laurels,” Johns said. “We need to challenge ourselves to get better, to identify areas that need improvement, and to work hard on those areas.” Johns identiﬁed building the USM lacrosse program as a focal point, especially at the Lower School and Middle School levels. A summer LaxCats lacrosse camp was held on campus last spring, as the program continues to pursue opportunities for growth. In addition to the development of the lacrosse program, the program is also working on additional ways to create more connections between athletes across divisions. A new “Wildcat Fan” initiative, introduced this year by Lower School Athletic Coordinator Michael Sweet, will pair Upper School mentors with Mighty Cat athletes to help teach them the fundamentals during their after-school practices. The Mighty Cats then become designated “fans” of their mentors and engage with them in a variety of ways, including decorating their lockers before big games.

Students from grades 1-8 participated in the LaxCats instructional camp held at USM from April through June.

“We want to build a strong foundation here and give our students the opportunity to see what is ahead for them,” Johns said.

Djdade Denson ’14 won the WIAA Division 2 state championship in the triple jump and placed second in the long jump. 38

USM TODAY | FALL 2014

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The Varsity Club is pleased to recognize generations of outstanding athletic tradition at University School of Milwaukee and its predecessor schools through the establishment of the Athletic Hall of Fame. The Varsity Club Athletic Hall of Fame will forever commemorate a long legacy of exceptional performances and contributions by former athletes, coaches, teams, and distinguished contributors, while recognizing the important role of athletics within the culture of the School. “I am excited about the opportunity the Hall will afford the many coaches and studentathletes whose signiﬁcant accomplishments during their time at our schools will be appropriately recognized,” said Maurie Daigneau, director of special giving at USM.

“The world of sport is an arena that brings forth exceptional qualities and skills in people, and this Hall of Fame will be created to recognize the most exceptional of those accomplishments,” Daigneau said. The intention is that the Hall of Fame will also serve to add historical signiﬁcance to participation in USM athletics and inspire current and future athletes by honoring the many standouts from each of the school’s storied histories. “The Varsity Club Athletic Hall of Fame will connect different generations of athletes and unite them in the alumni community,” said Holly Palin ’02, a four-sport USM athlete who served on the initial Hall of Fame creation committee. “That is what makes this so special.” All community members from USM and its predecessor schools will have the opportunity to nominate a student-athlete, coach, team, or distinguished contributor through December 1 of each induction year. Classes will be inducted every two years. The inaugural Varsity Club Athletic Hall of Fame Induction 2015 Banquet will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2015. For more information or to submit a nomination for the Varsity Club Athletic Hall of Fame, please visit www.usmk12.org/athletichalloffame or email Maurie Daigneau at mdaigneau@usmk12.org.

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This article appeared in the Sunday, September 8, 1963 edition of the Milwaukee Journal.

a look back

Merger to Go Into Effect in Fall of 1964 New Institution to Be Called the University School; It Will Have Two Campuses. Consolidation of Milwaukee Downer seminary, Milwaukee University School, and Milwaukee Country Day School into a single, private institution was announced Saturday. The merger, approved by the three schools’ boards of trustees and separate meetings, will take effect in September, 1964. Financial factors and the potential for achieving ex tremely high quality education by pooling resources led to

the decision. “Everyone concerned is convinced that the children of this community will profit by the consolidation, and that it will prove an outstanding contribution to education at large,” said a letter mailed Saturday to parents, alumni, and friends of the three institutions.

ery school through high school. It will operate on two campuses—the present Downer Seminary, 2100 W. Fairy Chasm rd, River Hills, to be called North campus, and the Country Day School, 6401 N. Santa Monica blvd., in Fox Point and Whitefish Bay, as South campus. They are about five miles apart. 1,100 Enrollment Trustees said the consolForecast The merged institution idation would provide an endowment of more than will be named University two million dollars. School, Milwaukee. It is Votes Unanimous expected to have an initial enrollment of 1,100 Decades of tradition, boys and girls in nurs- school spirit, and family

feeling faced the board members as they held separate meetings Friday noon. Collectively, the three schools have 273 years of history behind them. Downer Seminary dates back to 1848, MUS to 1851, and Country Day to 1917. The votes of all three boards, however, were unanimous, the chairman said. The 6.3 acre MUS campus at 2033 E. Hartford av. is to be sold for $2,300,000 to the University of Wisconsin for expansion of the University of Wisco n si n – M i l w a u ke e’s

Kenwood campus under an agreement announced July 30. The new merger is expected to make the property available to UWM one year earlier. On June 30, MUS said it planned to build a new campus on a 40 acre tract it owns in River Hills, across the road from Downer seminary. But officials of all three schools decided that the MUS decision to leave its present campus and get a substantial sum of money for its sale brought about the right conditions for negotiating the consolidation.

To read the article in its entirety, visit www.usmk12.org/50yearsofUSM.

USM TODAY | FALL 2014

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a look ahead UPCOMING EVENTS THROUGH FEBRUARY 01, 2015

nov 18 Parent Education – USM’s Strategic Plan with Head of Middle School Pamela Nosbusch

19 Upper School Band, Orchestra, and Choir Concert

20 Celebrate our Seniors Parent Event

21 Upper School Parent Coffee

dec

jan

Middle School Parent Coffee

USM Community Book Club Event

5-6

Middle School Fall Play

Grades 5-6 Choral Concert

All-School Holiday Concert

Grades 7- 8 Choral and World Drumming Concert

17 Middle School Band and Orchestra Concert

23 Upper School Parent Coffee

27-30

Preprimary Holiday Sing

Lower School Book Fair

USM Community Book Club Event

Lower School Show and Share Night

Grandparents and Special Friends Day Young Alumni Brunch

save the date! Homecoming & Reunion Weekend September 24-27, 2015 86725 USMTodayFall2014.indd 43

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2100 West Fairy Chasm Road Milwaukee, WI 53217 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

On June 8, 1985, University School of Milwaukee celebrated the move from the South Campus to the uniďŹ ed Fairy Chasm Road campus with a day of festivities and fun.

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