Greetings—Summer 2023

GREETINGS

Wayland Legacies

THE PICKARD, DYE, AND VANHAREN FAMILIES—CHOOSING WAYLAND AND LEAVING THEIR LEGACY

in recent years, crowdfunding has gained popularity due to the convenience of online fundraising. Instead of having a few major donors for a specific project, crowdfunding opens the door for a “crowd” to contribute to an initiative, many of whom may or may not already be engaged with Wayland.

The Wayland Academy community—5,000+ strong and spanning the entire globe—has a strong history of supporting and helping to advance the mission of the Academy. In the fall of 2022, Wayland launched its first crowdfunding campaign to name a study alcove in Burnham Hall in honor of Ms. Diane Alpaugh H`83. Since then, Wayland alumni, families, and friends have come together to raise more than $88,000 for various crowdfunding campaigns—contributing to athletic programs, campus projects, the Wayland Made campaign, and more.

Your gift, especially when combined with gifts from other alumni and friends who share your affinity for Wayland, can make a big difference. It can help fund educational field trips, honor beloved members of our community, or leave a permanent mark on campus—you can choose to contribute to the causes that mean the most to you.

Buy a Brick

Raised to date: $13,900

Rowing at Wayland

Raised to date: $15,386

Wayland Made Challenge

Fencing

Great Teachers Great Teaching

To contribute to or read more about our completed and current crowdfunding campaigns, visit: wayland.org/crowdfunding

Crowdfunding Projects To Date

Alpaugh Alcove: $50,500

Track & Field

Learn-By-Doing Clinic: $1,000

Urban Forest Restoration Project: $22,700

Just Keep Swimming: $41,179

Ring the Bell for Basketball: $2,000

We are many, but together we are one.

GREET INGS

Summer Issue, June 2023 wayland.org/greetings

Greetings is published for the alumni, parents, students, friends, and staff of Wayland Academy. We welcome letters concerning the content of this magazine and/or issues relating to the Academy. Letters must be signed and we ask that you include your address and daytime phone number for verification purposes. The editorial staff retains the right to edit at their discretion. Send correspondence to:

Greetings, Wayland Academy

101 North University Avenue Beaver Dam, WI 53916 Or, email us at: alumni@wayland.org

HEAD OF SCHOOL

Jason Warnick jwarnick@wayland.org

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Executive Board

David C. Larson `71, Chair

Shelley Greenwood `73, Vice Chair

Dottie Jung `75, Vice Chair

Peter Sensenbrenner `71, Treasurer

Michael C. VanHaren `82, Secretary

Trustees

James L. Janik `74

Randall Harris II `13

Richard H. Kimberly `54

William T. Luedke IV `70

Patricia Martin `96

John P. McConnell `82

John B. McKinstry H`10

John K. Miller `05

Elizabeth W. Parker `72, P`06, `08

Pete T. Patterson H`12

Megan Petersen `11, Ex Officio, Alumni Board President

correction:

Rosina Samadani `85

Onnie Leach Smith P`12, H`21

Burnett G. Sullivan `69

Bethann Vaubel P `12, `14, `16

Elizabeth Burnham Wallman `71, P`21

Jason Warnick, Ex Officio

Trustees Emeriti

Fred Bishop `57

R. Scott Jones `63

CONTRIBUTORS

Photography

Sarah Hafey Assistant Dean of Admission for Marketing shafey@wayland.org

Vicki Horstman Marketing Specialist vhorstman@wayland.org

Bryanna Michaletz `13 Senior Assistant Dean of Admission bmichaletz@wayland.org

Design

Ariel Esser arielesser@gmail.com

There was an error in the In Memoriam section of the Fall 2022 issue of Greetings. Daniel Prunuske `69 did not pass away, he is alive and well, and living in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin. (His father John Prunuske passed away.)

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State of the Academy

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Campus News

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Wayland Legacies

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Alumni You Should Know

on the cover:

In his nearly 40 years as an educator, Roger VanHaren H`84 is remembered throughout the entire Beaver Dam community for his entertaining and engaging teaching style. On the Wayland campus specifically, he created many of the campus traditions students still look forward to today—like painting boulders on Brown Field during Homecoming class competitions.

STATE OF THE ACADEMY

What a year it’s been!

by JASON WARNICK, head of school

The state of the Academy remains strong. The 2022-2023 school year represented a significant shift “back to normal.” Normal feels great! We are moving forward with joy and a vision for the future. Wayland continues to build upon the bold decisions made throughout the last few years to grow, innovate, build, and sustain.

Enrollment for the 2022-2023 school year settled at 167 students, a 30% increase over the prior year. As of June 1, enrollment for the 2023-2024 is tracking ahead of last year. The summer is now commonly referred to as the “second season” in the independent school admissions world. Our amazing admissions team will be meeting with families and fielding applications throughout the summer months.

Noteworthy news came this spring when our Director of Enrollment Josh Labove accepted a position at a boarding school in New England. The move represents a great opportunity for Josh and his wife Alecia. We wish them both the very best and know they will always be a part of the Wayland family. This move reflects Josh’s great work, and the national recognition Wayland is receiving for our efforts. We are thrilled to welcome Andrea Chesley and her partner Daniel Donovan to campus this summer as they move here from Ross School in New York. Andrea will take on the role of Dean of Enrollment and Financial Aid, and Daniel will serve as Director of STEAM. Andrea and Daniel bring with them a wealth of experience and success, and they are “all-in” for Wayland Academy. Andrea will be joining a successful team with Senior Assistant Director of Enrollment Bryanna Michaletz `13, Assistant Director of Enrollment for Marketing Sarah Hafey, and long-time Admissions Staff Member Roxanne Sell. Under Andrea’s leadership, the team looks forward to building upon the momentum they have worked hard to create.

The world is changing at an exponentially increasing rate of speed. Wayland will

continue to look forward and inward to innovate. The Wayland education must address the current state of student progress while preparing students for a future that is hard to predict or imagine. In their inaugural year, our Student Success and Environmental Science programs were both met with excitement and engagement. The Student Success Program includes one-on-one academic support, guided study hall, personal learning plans for every student, and the continuation of “Wellness Wednesdays” programming aimed at mental health and social-emotional learning. The Environmental Science Program brought our ninth graders to nearby Horicon Marsh regularly for field work, emphasizing a new approach to biology. It’s been rewarding to see these programs take hold, and we are very excited for year two. Next year, the Student Success Program will grow under the continued leadership of Director Tara Stewart, and our Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Innovation Seth Ahlborn will lead the Environmental Science Program.

Media Studies, now entering year three, continues to attract interested students. Media Literacy was again offered as a semester course, while workshops and integrated projects brought media production opportunities to both students and faculty. Stay tuned as there is more in store for this program moving forward.

Entering the 2023-2024 school year, Seth Ahlborn and the faculty are diving head-first into professional development anchored in principles of Universal Design Learning. We are working hard to build on our excellent academic programs and instruction to understand research-based teaching practices. These efforts will drive excellence in academics and will serve our students at every level of instructional need.

All of our new athletic programs were well-rostered and competitive this year. Crew, lacrosse, and fencing are heading into year three, and if you haven’t seen our athletic videos highlighting these activities,

we encourage you to check them out (wayland.org/athletics). Our impressive video productions, spearheaded by Assistant Director of Admissions for Marketing Sarah Hafey, continue to inspire all audiences (including, and maybe most of all, our students themselves). Next year will mark the return of American football! Wayland Academy’s eight-man football will compete under the leadership of secondyear Director of Athletics and Head Coach Cody Schultz. In Cody’s words, “When it comes to our athletic accomplishments in 2022-2023, Wayland is truly ringing the bell!”

It was surreal watching the young women of Wayland pack-up and move out of Burnham Hall. We can hardly believe it exists, let alone the fact that the building has now seen its first full year of residents. The intention of the design was to bring students and faculty together to create community and a healthy environment for studying, socializing, and having fun. Mission accomplished!

We began upgrades to the field house in June and will celebrate the Field House Naming and Dedication Ceremony during Homecoming. Thanks to the inspiring generosity of Jim Janik `74 and his wife Susan, Wayland student-athletes, coaches, and officials will enjoy fully renovated locker rooms, training rooms, and facilities. Outdoor renovations will also take place this summer, and the process should be complete by October!

As we dream of future projects and buildings, we need to look at our campus strategically and holistically. As such, we are working with HGA Architects to complete a campus master-planning process that involves students, parents, faculty, staff, trustees, local officials, and alumni. This process will conclude in the fall of 2023.

Our advancement team is leading the way! Carrie Ahlborn, Mandie Zopp, and Kelly Neuert P`15, H`17 continue to bring us together to engage our constituents, and they work tirelessly to find the

resources we need to carry on Wayland Academy’s mission and values. The driving force behind our success is our alumni, alumni parents, current parents, friends, and families. Your support and belief in Wayland fuel our initiatives and our spirits. Our sustainability relies on our continued growth and prosperity and your ongoing support of the school. Thank you!

Growth, innovation, and sustainability. There is much to be excited about at Wayland Academy. Our forward momentum builds on the traditions and values honed over the last 168 years. Through the pursuit of knowledge and development of character, we will remain steadfast in our commitment to preparing our students for college and beyond.

1 The Wayland girlsʼ four-crew team out on Beaver Dam Lake.

2 The Student Success Center is a place where all students are welcome to come for assistance or to work on class projects.

3 The Big Red lacrosse team ready to start the game.

4 The ninth-grade environmental biology class heading out to view wildlife at the Horicon Marsh.

During Winter Break, some students and faculty took a little piece of Wayland home with them—Big Red!

measures Nigel Lawrence `23 to ensure his commencement gown will be the correct size.

8 Members of the Wayland Concert Choir, Phuc “Peter” Dang `23, Kirk Kelly `24, Ethyn Tallman `24, and Wesley Ingraham `24, perform during the Winter Ensemble Concert in Kimberly Chapel. The choir and band delighted audiences with music to chase out the winter blahs.

6 Big Red visited Indiana and Kentucky with Sierra Mietzel `26.

7 Mrs. Ladron’s family took Big Red to Las Vegas.

1 Naomi Mwai `23 hones her ping pong skills during one of this year's ping pong tournaments.

2 Ecology Club members Sofía Solano `23, Elizabeth Zuri `24, and Koray Bayraktar `23 celebrate the fruits of their labor—blooming flowers!

3 Laughing yoga, led by Mr. Warnick, has been a big hit during Assembly this year. (You can tell by the smiles!)

4 During a commencement prep session in the Whiting Gallery, Ms. Lutes P`14, H`15

5 Charlotte Moss `24 performs during the Spring Family Weekend Coffee House in Kimberly Chapel.

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Gravelle

11 The Festival of Lessons and Carols, a beloved Wayland tradition, returned this year making the holiday season more festive for the Beaver Dam and Wayland communities. Listen to the 2022 service: wayland.org/lessons-and-carols

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9 James Cleary H`20 was honored with the Navy Impact Influencer Award. This prestigious award recognizes innovative educators who have inspired students to join the Navy. Ensign Alexander Idonije, Wayland Class of 2016, nominated Cleary for the award. Shown here: Head of School Jason Warnick and James Cleary H`20, and from the Navy, Alexander Idonije `16, Kim Turner `92, and Commander Matthew Sass.

Read more: wayland.org/cleary-navy-award

During Fine Arts Week, Mr. Estervig hosted the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh Chamber Choir and their director Shannon

for an exchange concert and mini workshop in Kimberly Chapel. Wayland students are shown here performing with the UW-Oshkosh Chamber Choir.

The Forensics team, led by Mrs. Throndsen H`14, had a successful year. Team members, (left to right) Tioluwani “Daphne” Ladipo `23,

Kirk Kelly `24, and Jonah Ratacjzak `25, are pictured here with Coach Throndsen and Mr. Warnick holding their third-place trophy from the Neenah Invitational Meet.

Students hit the slopes during a ski trip to Cascade Mountain in February.

Weekends at Wayland were filled with fun activities this year. This group of students spent their Sunday afternoon on wheels at Skate Express in Watertown.

16 The Class of 2023 Four-Year

Seniors—Front

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Wayland students enjoyed getting dressed up and dancing the night away during this year’s Snowball and Prom.

18 Students from Spain—Ana Del Pilar Casado Bonilla `25, Adrian Garcia Lechuga `25, Luis Lechon Cabello `24, Sofía Olveira Merino `25, Dalia Alcalá Olalla `24, Ignacio “Nacho” Garrido Viti `23, Carmen Vilches Martinez `24, and Ana Del Pozo Pavon `25—pose for a photo during this year's Snowball. (Photo taken by Elizabeth Zuri `24)

19 Cameras were flashing in Pickard Courtyard during Prom 2023. Smiling for the cameras are Ugar Can `23 and Clayton Kroschel `25 (19), and Ana Del Pozo Pavon `25 and Ava Barudin `25 (20).

15 Lam “Albert” Ho `23 won the St. Norbert College’s Fresh Ink Composition Contest in April for his piece Let it Beat

row: Shawnell Sims-Ceballos, Fernando Osorio, Hannah Pippenger, Saniah Wright, Naomi Mwai, Elissa Elgizooli, Melany Ruiz, Erin “Ryn” Tallman, Carmen Kehrmeyer, Megan Tyranski, Alanna Shuett; Back row: Emre Kocer, Ashton Rechek, Lam “Albert” Ho, Nyle Gill,

Phuc “Peter” Dang, Kaden Buss, John Blossom IV, Drew Benson, and Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Innovation Seth Ahlborn

Library Director Ms. Bird H`23 is pictured here (bottom center) with the Library Swans—a new student advisory group whose role is to assist with book requests and recommendations, curation of library displays, and provide input about the library space.

SENIOR CAPSTONES

senior capstone projects involve research, writing, design, and presentation skills. From year to year, students can focus on the same subject from different vantage points, developing a deeper understanding of their topic through multiple years of research and analysis. Seniors then apply their research and skills to complete a project outside the traditional curriculum that relates to their topic or explores a new topic or area they are passionate about. Their polished projects are presented at the annual Capstone Fair during Family Weekend in April. Enjoy this sampling of Senior Capstone Projects from the Class of 2023!

MA-RE—PERFUME CREATION

Irmak Ercil and Ece Maral

Irmak and Ece have been interested in perfumes since they were young. They decided to hit the lab to not only find out how perfumes are made, but also to create their own signature scent! The results? Using essential oils, they created two signature scents—Ivory and Aurelian.

DANCE TEAM—HALFTIME SHOW

Nigel Lawrence, Selin Sincek, and DeShawn Wint

Nigel, Selin, and DeShawn organized and led a dance team—made up of current Wayland students—that performed live in the Field House during two basketball games. The group logged many rehearsal hours to perfect their performance.

See their performance here: wayland.org/dance-team

INCLUSIVE STORYTIME

Erin “Ryn” Tallman

An inclusive storytime is very similar to a traditional storytime but with more interactive components, allowing every child the opportunity to participate in telling the story. There are both visual and physical ways for the children to interact with the story during the reading. Ryn led inclusive story times at St. Katherine Drexel School and the Beaver Dam Public Library and will continue her work on this project through Girl Scouts.

Read more: wayland.org/ inclusive-storytime

DORM WARS

Leo Ongera

PEER WRITING CENTER

Kaden Buss

As a freshman, Kaden visited Wayland’s writing center regularly to get a simple peer review, hone his writing skills, and meet brilliant upperclassmen. When he returned to campus after COVID, he was disappointed to realize the peer writing center was no longer being utilized to what he knew was its fullest potential. That's why Kaden spent much of his senior year rebuilding the writing center— returning it to a place of support and creativity for Wayland students.

Leo’s Dorm Wars event featured a variety of active games in which the four dorms competed against each other to win a fabulous prize package, including a dorm trophy, a basket of candy, night-out cards, a no-room-check Thursday, and a dorm dress-up day (not to mention bragging rights). First place went to Wayland Hall.

JUST EYEBALL IT! COOKBOOK

Naomi Mwai

Naomi created a cookbook of simple and delicious recipes for amateur chefs. Not only did she gather the recipes, but she also made each one on campus and photographed them as well. Some of the recipes are for unique treats that students can make in Pickard Dining Hall or their dorm kitchenette.

View the cookbook here: wayland.org/just-eyeball-it

Scholarships —A Key Piece of the Wayland Community

Celebrating 20 Years of the Mary Swan Scholarship

Thanks to contributions from Mary Swan—former faculty, trustee, and longtime supporter of Wayland and the Beaver Dam community—20 local students have had the opportunity to experience a Wayland education.

For the last two decades, Wayland has invited Beaver Dam students entering ninth grade to apply for the Mary Swan Scholarship, an award that each year covers the full cost of tuition at Wayland for four years, with one lucky day student being selected each year to receive the scholarship.

Mary Swan, Wayland class of 1925 and a native of Beaver Dam, taught English at Wayland Academy from 1956 to 1969 and was highly respected for her steadfast devotion to teaching students to write clearly and concisely. She and her family were generous patrons of her hometown and Wayland Academy.

Scholarships like the Mary Swan Scholarship ensure that Wayland’s globally-minded, Midwest-rooted education is within reach for students in Beaver Dam who are eager to bring their curiosity and positive energy to campus.

Meet the Current Swan Scholars

What happens on Wayland’s 55acre campus is nothing short of transformational. Students come to Wayland from all parts of the world and are matured, pushed, and loved by the faculty, roommates, and friends they meet here.

Part of this transformation rests in Wayland’s commitment to building a global student body that also represents today’s socioeconomic diversity of the U.S. The goodness of Wayland depends on the bringing together of talented thinkers and doers—young people ready to live and learn together—regardless of their family’s ability to meet the full cost of tuition.

Wayland Academy is unique and a leader here. Unlike most boarding and day schools, we are focused on welcoming the best students to campus and remain ‘need-blind,’ a pledge to not consider a family’s ability to pay in the admission process.

When students are admitted to Wayland, we make every effort to meet a family’s

demonstrated need with grants and scholarships—never loans. The result is something uncommon: a boarding/day school that attracts the best and brightest students and maintains a commitment to accessibility along the way. This focus means we can be proud of the students on campus today and the more equitable world they’ll charge to make.

Wayland Academy is committed to providing scholarships, award programs, and supplemental resources that offer the best educational experience possible. Through scholarships and other gifts to the endowment, alumni, friends, families, and community members can help ensure that a Wayland education, and all the transformation it makes possible, remains within reach for students for another 168 years.

To learn more about endowed scholarships, contact Director of Advancement Carrie Ahlborn (cahlborn@ wayland.org or 920-356-2120, ext. 222).

Class of 2023 graduate Ashton Rechek reflected on his four years at Wayland—made possible by the Mary Swan Scholarship:

“I wanted to come to Wayland because of the opportunities it gave me after high school,” he said. “The College Counseling program at Wayland made it way easier to prepare for and apply to schools. I’m feeling excited for the future—not quite as stressed as I think some of my friends in public school are.”

Ashton is headed to UW-Green Bay this fall, where he plans to study history and the social sciences. He hopes to become a teacher one day.

above, from left 2022 recipient Easton Keil `26, 2021 recipient Mathias Seufzer `25, 2020 recipient Daniela

“Dani” Espinoza `24, and 2019 recipient Ashton Rechek `23.

Inter-Quest

with assistance from Schwartz, Wayland received a $5,000 credit on its fiber circuit line on campus. Bill noted, “We aren’t a large enough company to offer larger donations than we currently do at this time, but we can leverage our skills to help and bring more money into the community by assisting with grant acquisition.”

Inter-Quest also assists Wayland in receiving discounted internet services annually, based on the amount of financial aid disbursed to students. Bill and Jeff say it feels important to support Wayland, as they’ve seen, year after year, the good things happening at the Academy and have gotten to know the well-prepared graduates who go off to make the world a better place.

“Having Inter-Quest share their time and knowledge has been such a priceless gift to the Academy, and the Wayland community looks forward to the continued partnership in preparing students for a lifetime of success,” said Head of School Jason Warnick.

Inter - quest isn ’ t just Wayland’s IT service provider. The downtown Beaver Dam business has been supporting Wayland’s mission for nearly 20 years as an integral partner in keeping the Academy’s network secure and the connection strong for the Wayland community.

In 2008, Wayland Academy teamed up with Inter-Quest Chief Executive Officer William (Bill) Schwartz and Chief Operating Officer Jeff Davidson and have since provided friendly, efficient, and reliable tech support to students, staff, and faculty.

Even before becoming Wayland’s IT provider, Inter-Quest was supported the Academy in other ways. In 2005, they made their first donation to the Academy for the Annual Spring Gala & Auction. They donated to Wayland’s first-ever (and now-famous) raise-the-paddle initiative in 2013 when the Academy raised nearly $50,000 for new technology.

Over the years, Inter-Quest’s support of Wayland has continued and includes monetary donations, donations of time and talent (including open IT support sessions on campus for our students), sponsorship of events, and gifts in-kind (including IT supplies, winter storage

for the Wayland crew shells, and donations to the annual gala & auction).

Inter-Quest CEO Bill Schwartz grew up in Beaver Dam and often thought of Wayland as “a castle on the hill.” After working a summer job at the Academy, he discovered more about the school, the people, and what it might be like to attend. Wayland became a special place to him. He wanted to see it succeed, and he knew this success required a lot of work by a lot of people. Now a successful businessman, Schwartz uses his knowledge to help in his community—and Wayland is a big part of that community.

Schwartz has been instrumental in seeking grants that apply to the needs and work being done at Wayland. In 2022,

Currently, Schwartz and Davidson are working to establish an esports venue in Beaver Dam, a sports environment inclusive to all abilities. (After attending an esports seminar last fall, they realized how much their community, especially the young people, might enjoy and benefit from esports.)

“The potential to offer esports to Wayland students in the future is very exciting. We look forward to working with Inter-Quest to make this possibility become a reality.” —Director of Athletics, Cody Schultz

Service Providers. Partners. Donors.

“ Both Jeff and I have seen Wayland accomplish so much good for the students who attend. Graduates leave better prepared for life and are well-positioned to make our world a better place. The Wayland community makes that possible more so than many other schools and some of the successes I’ve seen are simply amazing. It’s an honor to be a part of that.”

—bill schwartz, ceo, inter-quest

above left The Inter-Quest team—John Henderson, Eric Mathwich, Dave O’Connell, Jeff Davidson, Dustan Minnig, Nat Ciesla, Bill Schwartz

Wayland Academy Awarded $1 Million Grant for Student Success

Equitable Recovery Program Provides Resources and Support for Academic and Personal Growth for Wayland Students

In the 2022-23 school year, Wayland students had better access to goal-setting and mental health resources, expertise, and supplies, thanks to a $1 million grant secured through the State of Wisconsin’s Equitable Recovery Program. With the addition of three new faculty members (hired with these grant funds), peer-led academic tutoring, evening study support, life skills development, and workshops on mental health and wellness have been created.

Director of Student Success Tara Stewart helps students practice setting their own SMART goals: ones that are specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and timely. Parents are sent weekly updates on their student’s progress, and the students are responsible for identifying their academic and personal goals, establishing a timeline, and modifying their goals as necessary.

“I’ve had the opportunity to meet with more than 150 impressive students, one-on-one, and hear about what they want to accomplish in the short and long term,” Stewart said. “Wayland students have some big goals, and I’m here to support whatever those might be.”

Seth Ahlborn, Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Innovation, says goal-setting

and

GRANTS

Providing the best possible education to our students requires significant resources. A critical and growing funding source for Wayland has been through grant funding. Grants can often provide the financial support necessary for schools to implement innovative programs and assist with projects that enhance the learning experience for students. Wayland Academy recently received two grants; one to kickstart our new Student Success Program and another to enhance the campus grounds.

If you know of a grant opportunity that may benefit Wayland, please contact Mandie Zopp at azopp@wayland.org or 920-356-2120, ext. 247.

Making Room for Fresh Growth

Wayland Academy Receives DNR Grant to Improve Campus Tree Canopy

emotional learning are just some of the many lifelong skills students develop at Wayland.

In addition to launching the Student Success Program, the Equitable Recovery grant allows for expanded access to mental health resources on campus. The school partners with Church Health Services in Beaver Dam to provide students access to licensed counselors and therapists without having to leave campus.

The Equitable Recovery Program assists organizations that provide services or programs aimed at increasing equity and eliminating health disparities, early childhood development, education, economic support, housing, and environmental justice in communities disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The challenges associated with educating young people, in the aftermath of the pandemic, are well documented,” said Head of School Jason Warnick. “The Student Success Program aims to serve all Wayland students and students across Beaver Dam, Dodge County, and communities throughout the state. This grant will increase access to support through programming offered through Wayland—on and off campus and during the summer. The team facilitating this program at Wayland is amazing, and we are already seeing results.”

left Director Tara Stewart and Nolan `26

Wayland Academy was one of 58 applicants awarded a share of a $1.5 million Urban Forestry Grant Program, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources announced in December 2022.

The grant program, funded by both state and federal dollars along with a dollarfor-dollar match, supports an initiative to increase and improve the urban forest canopy—something experts say provides local heat mitigation, removes pollutants from the air, and improves mental health.

Wayland used its $14,994 award to help remove dead and hazardous ash trees and restore the 55-acre campus tree canopy with a mix of new trees (with all work being completed in 2023). The Academy also plans to educate current students, alumni, faculty, and staff on forestry-related topics.

“This is a great opportunity for our environmental classes to have hands-on learning experiences as it pertains to forestry and take part in helping to establish a healthier campus tree canopy. Some of those old trees have been providing shade for students from around Wisconsin, the nation, and the world, for generations. With the funds from this grant, we'll be able to make room for fresh growth and new beginnings,” said Head of School Jason Warnick.

Wayland was one of only three awardees selected in east-central Wisconsin.

Honoring Wayland’s Legacy Families

LEAVING THEIR LEGACY

by VICKI HORSTMAN, marketing specialist

SINCE 1855, Wayland Academy has earned a reputation for welcoming former students to campus later in life as engaged volunteers, benefactors, trustees, faculty members, and staff. It's not uncommon for alumni to return, sometimes after decades, with a renewed sense of appreciation for their days in Beaver Dam.

Certain Wayland families have shared that experience with their own children, returning generation after generation, to share the tradition of attending the Academy that prepared them for a lifetime of leadership. Among these legacy families are the Pickards, Dyes, and VanHarens.

Thanks to Samuel N. Pickard 1916, Glen and Ella Dye 1907, Roger VanHaren H`84, and their families, the Academy has persisted throughout time and has grown into the prestigious boarding school community it is today.

The VanHarens

The Dyes

The Pickards

The Pickard Family

Four Generations of Wayland Advancement

Samuel nelson pickard was born Winfield “Winny” Clifford Pickard, insisting, before attending Wayland, that his family “Call Me Sam.” How the name Sam Pickard became known on the Wayland campus and throughout Wisconsin, is the subject of “Call Me Sam,” the biography written by his wife, Dorothea Pickard, in 1972.

After serving in the Marines, Samuel N. Pickard, Wayland Class of 1916, returned to his position at a bank in the Fox Cities and quickly made a name for himself as a business and civic leader in that region. In 1935, Sam accepted a position on Wayland’s Board of Trustees and, over the next four decades, provided invaluable insight, fundraising experience, and leadership during some of the Academy’s most challenging times.

In his early involvement on the board, one of Sam’s greatest accomplishments was reviving Wayland’s Alumni Association, bridging the gap between former students and current school leadership.

Sam Pickard is also credited with starting the annual giving program, known today as the Academy Fund, which remains a vital piece of Wayland’s financial snapshot.

Ten years into his board service, in 1945, the Board of Trustees named Sam the general chairman of the “$90,000 for the 90th” capital campaign. Under his leadership, the Wayland community came together to raise twice that amount, resulting in the additions of Lindsay Gymnasium and the Sol Wolfe `34 Pool to Wayland's campus. The success of this campaign also led to many other financial drives and campus enhancements for the Academy.

According to Wayland records, former trustee Ed Rothe `44 reported that in 1942, early in WWII, the Academy’s Board of Trustees seriously considered closing the school for lack of students and income; until Sam Pickard stepped forward and contributed the necessary funds to keep the school running. In Ed’s words, “There wouldn't be a

Wayland Academy today without Sam Pickard.”

Sam’s father, H.W. Pickard, attended Wayland in the early 1870s and wrote the song “Old Wayland on the Hill” which debuted at commencement activities in 1873. Sam’s uncle, Roy Nelson, (the brother of Lulu Nelson, Sam’s mother), also attended Wayland, as well as a cousin of Sam’s, Hattie May Pickard. All told, there have been four generations of Pickard students at Wayland, including Sam and Dorthea's five children and one grandchild.

Sam Pickard's affinity for the Academy his family attended for generations remained strong throughout his lifetime. He served as the President of the Board of Trustees from 1948 to 1962 and remained a member of the board until he passed away in 1973. The name Sam Pickard, however, continues to live on at Wayland—not only through Pickard Dining Hall, but through his son, Samuel W. Pickard `51, and grandson, Samuel K. Pickard `79.

⊳ Sam and Dorothea’s biggest inspiration for investing in Wayland Academy was their own five children— all graduates of Wayland Academy. The children remained active in the Wayland community in various ways throughout their lifetimes, serving as board members, alumni gathering hosts, benefactors, and parents.

The Pickard family in December 1941: (left to right) Tom `50, Julie `47, Sam Sr. `16, Sam Jr. `51, Jim `43, Dorothea, and Judy `47

▲ In 1954-55 school year, the biggest and most exciting event of Wayland's Centennial celebration was the dedication of the newly-constructed dining hall. The Board of Trustees had decided unanimously, and in secret, to surprise a humble Sam N. Pickard `16 by naming the building in his honor.

unveiled in conjunction with the presentation of her Distinguished Service Citation in 1978 and still hangs in Pickard Dining Hall today

▲ Dorothea Pickard poses with a portrait of her husband, Samuel N. Pickard `16. The portrait was

▲ Sam Pickard `16 shown here (back row, far right) on Wayland’s campus with his classmates during the 1912-1913 school year.

▲ Sam Pickard `16 surrounded by his uncle Roy Nelson `87, “Yerka,” daughter Julie Pickard Shaw `47, and wife Dorothea Pickard.

▲ Sam Pickard `16 (right) stands among other legendary Wayland leaders: Board of Trustees President Frank H. Lindsay (left), and Headmaster Ray A. Patterson `40 (center). Throughout history, trustees have played a vital role in the success of the Academy

The Dye Family

Discovering Passions at Wayland That Would Change the World

The decade between 1954 and 1964 was a big one for our legacy families—and Wayland as a whole—with the construction of Pickard Hall, Memorial Chapel, and the Glen Dye Dormitory.

In the early 1900s, Mr. Beecher K. Dye and Mrs. Florence L. Henry Dye, both graduates of Wayland’s Class of 1878, enrolled their sons Glen `07 and Carl `09 at their alma mater. As a student, Glen M. Dye `07 was very interested in mechanics and could usually be found tinkering in the Linfield Hall science classroom. He was also interested in photography and, while attending Wayland, invented the first photo reproduction machine and began selling photo postcards of Beaver Dam scenes to local merchants.

Glen’s love for photography, technology, discovery, and his Wayland classmate, Miss Ella C. Merriam (Dye) `07, would eventually become a multi-milliondollar business, setting his family up for future generations of exploration, innovation, and philanthropy to Wayland Academy.

Glen and Ella were married in 1909, and within a year, Glen had automated the simple machine he created at Wayland, inventing the first motordriven photographic printing machine. Soon after, he moved himself and Ella to Minneapolis to start the family business.

The team at Pako, Inc. (known initially as PACO, or the Photo Advertising Company) invented the first photo strip processor, which eventually led to the creation of a central processing lab (where drugstores would send customers’ film to be developed). The company was even hired by Walt Disney Studios to create a one-of-a-kind color film machine for their animation department. During war times, Pako’s advancements in aero- and x-ray technology made it a major supplier to the Department of Defense during war times. Soon, Pako had become the largest supplier of photographic, graphic arts, and image processing equipment in the world.

Glen and Ella had also started a family in Minneapolis: a son, Harry Dye

(Glen R.’s father), and two daughters, Marjorie Getsch and Amy Knopf. By the 1970s, Pako had three generations of Dyes working together (in addition to the 1,200 employees) out of its brand-new location. Despite their everincreasing wealth, Glen and Ella lived modestly and seemed to be constantly looking for the good their money could accomplish.

Glen joined the Board of Trustees from 1963-1971, and the couple remained active in the advancement department and successfully rallied the Wayland community to give back to the school. The Dye Family Foundation made several generous donations to the Wayland community. In subsequent years, their generosity and matchinggift campaigns helped Wayland raise more than $275,000 for the Glen and Ella Dye Dormitories and $500,000 toward Discovery Hall.

Glen and Ella’s faith was important in their connection to Wayland. For instance, the Discovery Hall dedication ceremony did not take place in the new science building. Instead, the community gathered in Memorial (now Kimberly) Chapel during Family Weekend 1971 as the new building was dedicated “to continuing of Discovery of more and more of the wonders and secrets of our God-created universe.” The Dye Chair of Religion was established and still exists today to maintain the Faith Pillar at Wayland through weekly gatherings.

In 1979, Wayland initiated the Glen and Ella Dye Award given each year to a student, irrespective of class, whose behavior is exemplary in religious earnestness and moral sensitivity. On Commencement Day 1962, Glen and Ella Dye, both Class of 1907, received Wayland’s first Distinguished Service Award for their outstanding service to the Academy—the highest honor given to members of the community.

As their business and fortune grew, Glen and Ella Dye `07 never forgot the school where they started out—as students and as a couple—and where Glen’s interest in photography began.

2 Members of the Class of 1907 enjoy socializing on the porch: (left to right) Tom Howell, Ned Merriam, Inez Warren, Ella Merriam (Dye), Fanny Merriam, and Walt Arnold. (We can’t help but wonder if this photo was an early photograph by their classmate Glen Dye `07!)

3 Glen Dye’s aunt, Amna Dye, is pictured here as a member of the ladies’ literary society in the late 1800s. Wayland records indicate that the Dye name, in fact, pre-dates the Civil War.

4 The second of the twin Dye Dormitories, Ella Dye Dormitory for girls, was dedicated in 1971.

5 Glen and Ella Dye `07 at the dedication of Discovery Hall during Family Weekend 1971. The ceremony for the new science building was held in Memorial (Kimberly) Chapel, a nod to their faith and firm belief that science and religion must work together.

6 Glen Dye `07, and Wayland as a whole, received special recognition from several federal agencies, including NASA, for his advancement of Wayland’s science program and contribution of Discovery Hall.

`07 and Ella C. Merriam Dye `07. Glen remembered “Grandpa Dye’s” workshop, covered in drawings, plans, and designs for various patents.

He also recalled that Grandpa Dye `07 came to Wayland in the back of a hay wagon, bringing with him only a cow to help pay for room and board. Ironically, Glen’s first driving lesson came from Grandpa Dye and happened to be on the way to Beaver Dam in a PAKO rented vehicle.

“Until I went down [to Wayland], I didn’t realize how big a place it was. There’s something about that school and the people that attend there that make it unique.”

–Glen R. Dye, grandson of Glen M. Dye `07 and Ella C. Merriam Dye `07

1 Glen and Ella Dye `07 observe new growth at Discovery Hall.

The VanHaren Family

A Wayland-Made Faculty Family

Jill `80 attended Northwestern University, earning a B.A. in Spanish Literature and an M.A. in Journalism. Jill passed away in 2011, and her mother and four brothers remember her as a strong-willed, smart, and talented young woman.

A

n entire century after the Dye and Pickard families first stepped foot on campus, another legendary family was just putting down roots in Beaver Dam. After graduating from UW Oshkosh in 1960 and 1961, Marilyn and Roger VanHaren both accepted teaching positions in the Beaver Dam Unified School District. Over the next 50 years, the VanHarens became legendary teachers and actors throughout the entire community. They also became parents of five children—all future Wayland alums.

Roger continued to teach at the junior high school for 13 years as he and Marilyn raised their children. The entire family was active in community theater, and Roger also sat on the Beaver Dam City Council. It was through his community involvement that he got to know some of the teachers at Wayland. During a cityleague basketball game (hosted at Wayland’s new field house), Wayland President Jim Burnham approached Roger about joining the Academy’s English department. Although it was a difficult decision to leave the school district, he accepted the offer and began his Wayland adventure in the fall of 1974.

Two years later, he was appointed the faculty representative on the Board of Trustees. It was at this time that his daughter, Jill `80, started at Wayland.

“I’ll never forget the embarrassment I felt the first time my father sprinted across his room in Linfield Hall, then jumped onto a student’s desk…I was mortified. He finished the lecture from his new perch. How many of you have seen the movie Dead Poets’ Society?’ They stole that act from him!” Jill shared in a “Memories” section of the December 1990 edition of Greetings.

Jill's four younger brothers followed, all becoming members of the Wayland community, and attending classes taught by their father. In the spring 2001 edition of Greetings, a

then-retired Roger reflected on his favorite parts of his time at Wayland, considering his unique perspective as a beloved faculty member and father of five Wayland graduates.

“Interestingly enough, teaching all of my own kids and watching them succeed after Wayland is probably the top thing … I had to sort of separate my parenting from my teaching and be careful not to get the two mixed up. It was a wonderful experience! Luckily, all my kids were good students, and their classmates could see that they were doing well in every class, and not just English. I’m very proud of all of them.”

In addition to teaching and being the “unofficial” scorekeeper for Wayland basketball, Roger took on the role of fine arts coordinator in the early ’80s and is remembered for organizing all-school trips to the American Players Theater in Spring Green. A few years later he became the activities coordinator and created many traditions (like homecoming rock painting) that students still look forward to today. The VanHaren children had a choice when it came time for high school: stay in the public schools or transfer to Wayland Academy. All chose the academy, and all went on to achieve success after Wayland.

TJ `81 went to Lawrence University in Appleton and graduated with a degree in psychology. He and his wife, Kim Morioka, are raising their family in California, and both have worked for Google.

Mike `82 attended St. Norbert College in DePere before settling down in the Milwaukee area with his wife, Jessi, and their children. Mike made a career in marketing and joined Wayland’s Alumni Board in 2003 and was named its Volunteer of the Year in 2011. In 2008, he was appointed to the Board of Trustees and currently serves as the board secretary.

Chris `84 studied computer engineering at Massachusetts Institute of Technology and was published in two national computer magazines. A decade after graduating from Wayland, he returned to Wayland to donate his time and talent as he launched Wayland’s very first website. He and his wife, Carla Fermann, were married at Disney World in 1996 and have four children, three adopted from Korea.

Mark Wong-VanHaren `87 met his wife Nerissa Wong in a competitive singing group at Stanford, where he helped start a tech company, Excite Inc. After selling Excite, Mark and Nerissa moved to Santa Cruz, where they have a family band named Camacu.

Marilyn is grateful for her four tech-savvy sons, who help keep her connected online. She still happily receives messages on Roger’s former Facebook page, now a memorial where former students, teachers, actors, and friends can share stories of her late husband.

As a writer, Roger’s legacy lives on in many ways. The 1989 Pillars yearbook was dedicated to Mr. VanHaren for his extra effort in planning exciting and memorable experiences for the entire school community. He also received recognition in The Sesquicentennial Story, published in 2005, for his years of research, preparation, and writing of Wayland’s 150-year history. The book is still referenced today and shared with graduates each spring. His most important legacy, however, will always be his family.

1 Over the years, the Wayland Academy campus became an important place for the VanHarens. Many family events and celebrations were held there, including performances, commencements, and nightly “cordial” family dinners—even Jill's wedding reception in 1987 and Roger's memorial service in 2019. The VanHaren family on the Wayland campus in 1983: Roger H`84, Mark `87, Mike `82, Marilyn, Jill `80, Chris `84, and TJ `81

2 In 2015 Roger VanHaren H`84 (alongside his fellow teacher Dave Kasper H`81) received the Distinguished Service Citation, the highest honor bestowed upon an individual by the Academy.

3 Beginning in 1995 and continuing into their retirement, Roger and Marilyn VanHaren performed shows about Mark Twain and his wife Livy for schools, theaters, and nonprofits across the Midwest.

4 The VanHaren children were performing at Wayland even before they were students at the Academy. In a 1975 talent show, Jill invited her four younger brothers up to the Kimberly Chapel stage to perform two songs. (The youngest, Mark `87, fell off the stage at one point and after a few shed tears the show went on. Mark eventually went on to star in The Music Man during high school.)

5 Marilyn’s involvement in Wayland theater led to a brief teaching position in 1992-93. Today, as a faculty emeritus and mother of five Wayland graduates, Marilyn is happily “Wayland-Made.” Marilyn VanHaren and her son, Board Secretary Mike VanHaren `82, preparing for the 2022 Spring Gala & Auction.

ALL STUDENTS at Wayland leave a legacy—especially the ones that return later in life. Wayland Academy wouldn’t be what it is today without the support from people and families like Sam Pickard `16, Glen and Ella Dye `07, Roger VanHaren H`84, and their families. Their legacies live on through named scholarships, planned giving, board service, special spaces on campus, and the stories we share with all who visit campus. Through their contributions of time, talent, and treasure, members of the Pickard, Dye, and VanHaren families have helped shape the trajectory of the Academy for generations.

“Interestingly enough, teaching all of my own kids and watching them succeed after Wayland is probably the top thing … I’m very proud of all of them.”

–Roger VanHaren H`84

From Wayland to the World:

A First-Year Follow-Up with Members of the Class of 2022

as the months turned into a year, and the buildings and halls of Wayland Academy became mere memories, a new chapter unfolded for our remarkable graduates. With diplomas in hand and dreams in their hearts, the class of 2022 embarked on an exhilarating journey: the transition from high school to adult life/college. Now, as the dust settles on their first year, we bring you an exclusive follow-up, delving into the experiences, challenges, and triumphs of these former Wayland Big Red students.

In this Q&A session, we share insights of a small group of Wayland Academy alumni. Their stories offer a glimpse into the incredible tapestry of experiences that shape the lives of these young adults as they carve out their paths in the world. From navigating new academic landscapes to forging friendships in new cities and on new campuses in the halls of Ivy League institutions, bustling state universities, small liberal arts colleges, and everything in between, our Wayland alumni are spreading their wings and soaring.

Molly Davis, Class of 2022

Oberlin College—Oberlin, Ohio

Major: Musical Studies

Hometown: Beaver Dam, Wisconsin

Molly `22 was a four-year day student (2018-2022) at Wayland Academy.

What did you find most rewarding about living in Ohio?

Interestingly enough, I specifically chose a school that would feel like Wayland! I like a school that is small enough for my teachers to get to know me and where I can walk to class and see five of my friends on the way. I also really enjoy being able to explore a new state (Ohio) and close cities (Cleveland). My friends and I specifically have had fun exploring the concert and hiking/climbing scene. You wouldn’t think Ohio would really have either, but I was pleasantly surprised.

How do you feel that Wayland helped to prepare you for college?

Wayland prepares students really well for college by giving them practical experience in a dorm, living with peers, and collegelevel academic rigor. I would say to trust that experience and try to build off it. I was already used to long and full days, so that transition wasn’t super hard. Dorm life was also something that I knew about, so I had a good foundation to work with.

Are you involved with any clubs or organizations at Oberlin?

To quote my mother, I kind of put my mouth to the fire hydrant my first year. I work as a lifeguard for the college swim team and frequent Oberlin’s climbing gym. I’ve made a ton of really good friends through climbing and hope to continue learning as I go. I am also a member of Oberlin’s jazz and folk acapella group, Round Midnight. One of Oberlin’s quirks are their co-ops. They are student-run dining and housing cooperatives that function entirely on their own. I am a part of Pyle-Inn

co-op, a dining-only facility. I put in three hours a week of cooking and cleaning and get to eat vegetarian, family-style meals with some whimsical people.

What did you find was the most difficult to adjust to during your first year at Oberlin?

It was difficult to completely start over in a new place. Oberlin College is just over seven hours away from my home. I didn’t know anyone, and as an introvert, it was definitely a bit draining the first few weeks. I was used to a community where everyone knew each other, and I was suddenly in a strange and foreign place that had new rules to learn and people to meet. There definitely was a learning curve, but I think I’ve come out the other side with some really lovely friends.

Did you have any surprises during your first year at Oberlin?

I was surprised to find a college with such beautiful, niche communities. I came into college with a passion for Irish music but didn’t think that I would find anyone with a similar interest. Within the first three days, I met three other students who could either play Irish music very well, or had connections to Ireland, similar to my own. The first few weeks of college turned into a continuous folk music jam session that I thoroughly enjoyed!

Please share your favorite memory from your first year at Oberlin.

One of my favorite memories from freshman year would have to be a trip I took with some environmental science students to Blue Rock Station in Muskingum County, Ohio. Twelve of us piled into a van and drove south to a little earthship farm to learn about sustainable living for the weekend. What I thought might be a fun little weekend away turned into fully replanting a greenhouse, cleaning out a goat stall, making my own meals with ingredients from the garden, and creating some profound connections with other people on the trip. We stayed in earthship huts, two to three people per hut, and lived off-grid for a few days. The trip informed my interest in environmental science and prepared me for the weeklong backpacking trip to the Great Smokey Mountains I took in March (another favorite memory from this year).

Do you stay in touch with your Wayland community?

I have stayed in touch with some friends from Wayland; those are some connections that I don’t see breaking anytime soon. One of my friends came to visit me at Oberlin and it was very special to share what seemed like a whole new version of my life with someone who has known me for so long.

What do you miss the most about Wayland?

I miss experiencing the spring season on Wayland’s campus. Nothing really compares to sitting out on front campus when the weather begins to get warmer and senior dress is allowed.

As you complete your first year at Oberlin, what advice do you have for current Wayland students?

Enjoy the diversity and intimacy that comes with being a part of a small academic community. Wayland’s diversity is something I really miss at college, so soak it in and learn as much as you can while you have the time! The friendships you make at Wayland are special because of how much time you spend together during those formative years. It’s a unique experience that a lot of other people don’t get.

above Making music is what Molly `22 (on right) loves to do, as shown here during a guitar session with a friend on the lawn at Oberlin.

Griffin Hughland, Class of 2022

Columbia University—New York City, New York

Major: Political Science & Economics

Griffin `22 was a three-year (2019-2022) day student from Columbus, Wisconsin, and the valedictorian of the Class of 2022.

What did you find most rewarding about living in New York City?

New York was a challenge at first as I am sort of a rural farmland-hailing dude. However, it has undoubtedly been advantageous.

I think it’s vital to experience urban life at least once to understand how the other side lives. Beyond the philosophical, the city has given me exposure to a range of pop-cultural experiences The professional opportunities in such an urban setting cannot be overstated. How do you feel that Wayland helped to prepare you for college?

I will reiterate that Wayland is what you make of it. The many wonderful faculty at Wayland prepared me well for the background knowledge I would need for college-level classes. The positive work ethic and habits I developed at Wayland helped me to maintain my composure when classes became difficult.

I was a day student at Wayland and my main struggle at Columbia was homesickness, which my boarding classmates from Wayland had already got a handle on. I'm grateful for the education Wayland provided me.

Are you involved with any clubs or organizations at Columbia?

I am a member of the Columbia undergraduate Pre-law Society, the Jiu-Jitsu Club, and Symposium (a literature-philosophy club

Sophia Lama, Class of 2022

Fordham University—New York City, New York

Major: Economics with a Minor in Finance

Hometown: Woodside, New York

Sophia `22 was a boarding student at Wayland Academy from 2018 through 2022, and led the Financial Literacy Club.

So, tell us about New York City.

Despite being a native of New York, I never had the opportunity to study here before. As someone who grew up in small towns like Lititz, PA and Beaver Dam, WI, attending university in a bustling city was a significant change. However, one of the most rewarding aspects of studying in NYC has been the ability to see my parents whenever I want and to meet new people in unexpected ways, such as being interviewed on the street.

How do you feel that Wayland helped to prepare you for college?

My experience at Wayland Academy helped me develop skills in forming friendships with individuals from diverse backgrounds. This has been particularly useful in college, where I have found that people are often surprised that I know individuals from such a diverse community. This has helped me to establish

connections and foster friendships more easily compared to my fellow classmates.

Are you involved with any clubs or organizations at Fordham?

I am engaged in various clubs at Fordham University, including the Consulting Club, Entrepreneurship Club, DESI Club, Podcasting Club, and Marketing Club. While this may seem like a lot, attending every meeting is not mandatory. I wanted to take the opportunity to explore my diverse interests and put myself out there, while also meeting new people with similar interests.

Please share your favorite memory from your first year.

Hosting Maggie, a friend from Croatia whom I met at Wayland Academy, was one of my favorite memories. Seeing her interact with my Fordham friend group and catching up after a long time was a wonderful experience.

Do you stay in touch with your Wayland community?

Maintaining relationships with the people I met at Wayland is important to me, even though it can be challenging due to distance and busy schedules. Fortunately, I have everyone's favorite Wayland classmate, Kiet `22, who lives only 10 minutes away from me, and Griffin `22, who has already met all my roommates. I rely on Facetime to stay connected with Keza `22 and other friends, and I reach out to former teachers through LinkedIn or email.

What do you miss the most about Wayland?

Thanks to Wayland's schedule, I've been able to establish a healthy routine that reminds me to eat regularly, stay active, and manage my

kind of like nerdy Dead Poets). My biggest extracurricular commitment is with the Columbia University College Democrats, where I serve as Lead Organizer and sit on the board. What do you miss the most about Wayland? One benefit I took for granted at Wayland was the ease of establishing a relationship with my teachers. These connections made me feel more comfortable asking questions and voicing my uncertainties. I always felt like I had a strong support system because of the relationships I developed with faculty inside and outside the classroom. (I also miss running track dearly.)

As you complete your first year at Columbia, what advice do you have for current Wayland students?

Wayland is 100% what you make of it. Whether you want to be top of your class or make it to commencement in one piece, the beauty of Wayland is that it offers the opportunity to strive as far as you like and reap the rewards. Wayland acts as a pre-professional and pre-collegiate biosphere that helps force students to take their academics seriously, nurturing curiosities and challenging the fortitude of scholars. I advise you to seize every opportunity you have at your disposal and challenge yourself. Wayland Academy is a privilege not to be squandered or taken lightly. (Also, run track.)

time efficiently, even with a busy schedule. While I miss the community, I'm also grateful for the independence that Wayland taught me, allowing me to make my own decisions.

As you complete your first year at Fordham, what advice do you have for current Wayland students?

My advice to Wayland Academy students is to actively participate in extracurricular activities and campus events while also prioritizing time management to balance responsibilities and leisure. Furthermore, it is beneficial to network with individuals both within and outside of your immediate social circle, including classmates and guest speakers at events, as this can offer valuable personal and professional connections.

above Griffin `22 led a lobbying trip to Washington, D.C. and is working as a legislative intern to Minority Leader of the Wisconsin State Senate this summer.

above Sophia `22 taking a break from her studies to enjoy some time on the slopes in the Catskill Mountains.

STUDENT PROFILE Meet Lila Nash `24

IT TAKES A LOT OF COURAGE TO join a community of people you’ve never met and in a place you’ve never been. That’s just what Wayland students are.

Lila Nash, a senior at Wayland in the fall of 2023, grew up all over the world— literally. At just six months old, she was already jet-setting the world with her parents, Steve and Juliet “Minnie” Nash.

“I grew up in Palm Desert, CA and then moved to England a little later. I went back and forth for months at a time my whole life, but home for the first part of my life was California,” Lila said.

Her father, a commercial airline pilot, understood the importance of experiencing other cultures (especially at a young age), and made it a priority to make the world a little smaller for his family. In addition to growing up between two continents, Lila’s been to more than 25 countries in her 17 years!

No stranger to the boarding student life, Lila started high school in the UK in 2020 as a “hybrid” boarding student. However, being the outgoing and involved person she is, Lila found the lockdown and the distance learning phase of the pandemic to be challenging.

By the time travel restrictions were lifted, her father knew she was eager to get back into the classroom full-time and empowered her to make her own decision about where she wanted to finish high school.

Lila spent hours researching boarding schools in the U.S. She looked at schools like Walnut Hill School for the Arts, Phillips Exeter Academy, and Idyllwild Arts Academy. However, it was Wayland Academy that stood out to her.

She prepared a 56-slide presentation to demonstrate to her parents why Wayland would be the perfect fit for her, considering the Academy’s emphasis on community and inclusivity. She also had extended family living in the nearby Fox Cities, allowing for extra support if needed.

Without ever having toured the campus in person, in October 2021 Lila arrived in Beaver Dam as a sophomore. Less than two years later, she has found that the Midwestern “heartland” vibes are exactly what she needed—and what makes the Wayland experience unique.

Lila quickly found her place on campus, plays volleyball and soccer, and is a member of the swim team. She is also an active member of UNICEF, Model United Nations, Admission Ambassadors, and PEACE (People Existing and Communicating Equally). In May 2023, Lila was selected to be a prefect for the 2023-2024 school year, one of the highest honors bestowed upon a student at the Academy.

“At Wayland, I have learned that I work best when I’m busy, and that it’s OK to ask for help when I need it. I’ve also realized that my love for politics extends beyond typical conversation.”

Lila will graduate in 2024 and hopes to attend a university in the U.S. where she can play volleyball while studying politics and sociology. Her dream is to go into a political career where she “can make a real difference in the world.”

above Lila Nash `24 (middle row, far left) with the 2022 Wayland Volleyball team.

“Being Wayland Made means you are kind to everyone you meet, that you embrace each other’s differences, and the realization that having a community behind you can make the world of difference, especially when times get tough.”

I’ m pleased to share some of the Alumni Board’s successes from the last year. We have continued our popular Coffee Chats series, hosting three Chats this academic year and connecting with over 70 students at Wayland. We were a sponsor of Wayland’s Big Red Tourney on June 2 and are rallying together to make Homecoming 2023 a success. The Alumni Board has also partnered with the Board of Trustees on engagement and advancement. We have helped represent the Academy at various in-person regional gatherings around the country, and we have also lent a hand to the Board’s Master Planning Committee on its efforts to create a bright future for Wayland.

Of course, wherever there are successes, there’s also always room for growth, particularly in the realm of engagement. We are planning some changes to the Alumni Board that we hope will promote engagement across more class years and provide fresh perspectives. We also plan to collaborate further with the Board of Trustees, particularly its Advancement Committee, to support advancement and engagement at Wayland. We also hope to find new ways to connect with both prospective and current Wayland students—while we represent part of Wayland’s rich history, it’s the students who represent the Academy’s present and future. If you are interested in connecting with the Academy or getting involved with the Alumni Board, we encourage you to reach out! You can contact the Director of Advancement Carrie Ahlborn (cahlborn@ wayland.org or 920-356-2120, ext. 222) or check out the website for more information. wayland.org/alumni

wayland alumni and friends have been gathering across the U.S. in 2023 swapping stories and reliving memories of their time at the Academy. Recent gatherings took place in San Jose, CA (February 15), Marina del Rey, CA (February 16), Scottsdale, AZ (February 18), Houston, TX (March 7), Minneapolis, MN (March 28), and Seattle, WA (May 8). We are very grateful to our alumni hosts who made these events possible!

If you are interested in hosting a gathering in your area, please contact Director of Academy Fund and Alumni Engagement Mandie Zopp (azopp@wayland.org or 920-356-2120, ext. 247).

We hope you will join us at a future gathering!

1 MARINA DEL

Cassidy

John McConnell

Kelly Cantley-Kashima

Marlene Destories, Alison Lee, Madeleine Mindling `06, Jacob Disch `04, Charles Meyer `59, Gretchen Trumpf `74, Windon Newton `80, Jeff Neff, Alex Bruderer `12, Jeff Hawley `75, Jeff Hamar `76, Head of School Jason Warnick, Dean of Enrollment and Financial Aid Dr. Josh Labove

2 SCOTTSDALE Hosted by Trustee Jim Janik `74 and his wife, Susan. During the alumni gathering in Houston, Head of School Jason Warnick and Board of Trustees Chair David Larson `71 presented Susan and Jim Janik `74 with a commemorative print of the feature news story about the Janik's $1-million donation to renovate and name the Wayland Academy Field House.

3 HOUSTON Hosted by Trustee Pete Patterson H`12. Ashely Seippel `05, Trustee Will Luedke `70, Cathy Seippel P`05, `01, Head of School Jason Warnick, Trustee Pete Patterson H`12, Tyri Schiek Centanni `71, David Harvey, Mikki Hebl `87, Ja’Mar Watson, Director of Advancement Carrie Ahlborn, and seated Tom and Emily Ryan GR `26

4 NEW YORK CITY Hosted by Lynn Wagenknecht `71. Michael Ecker `77, Agnes Hadhazy `91, Doug Mehagian, Head of School Jason Warnick, Lynn Wagenknecht `71, Asma Samadani `87, Trustee Rosina Samadani `85, Director of Advancement Carrie Ahlborn, Trish Duez Martin `96, Esther Aubry `01

5 NEW YORK CITY MEETUP Kiet Nguyen `22, Head of School Jason Warnick, Griffin Hughland `22, Sophia Lama `22, Director of Advancement Carrie Ahlborn

REY

`82, Michael

`03,

`81,

All the best, Megan Petersen Alumni Association Board President

Save the Date for Wayland Academy HOMECOMING 2023!

get ready for Homecoming 2023—Wayland’s biggest event of the fall season! Homecoming will take place October 13–15, 2023

It is a great time for alumni, families, students, faculty, and staff to come together and celebrate the Wayland Academy community.

The weekend will be filled with a variety of activities, including the Wayland Athletic Hall of Fame induction ceremony, a reception for all classes, the annual alumni awards dinner, class gatherings, and much more.

Whether you graduated five years ago or 50, it will be a wonderful opportunity to catch up with old friends and relive your favorite memories from your time at Wayland.

The weekend isn’t just for alumni. Current students and families are also invited to participate in the festivities. Families are welcome to attend special events, sit in on classes with their students, and learn more about their student’s on-campus experience.

Homecoming registration will open on July 1, 2023. If you are interested in getting a group together during Homecoming, contact Director of Academy Fund and Alumni Engagement Mandie Zopp (azopp@wayland.org or 920-356-2120, ext. 247).

The following schedule highlights some of the activities you won't want to miss:

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13

• Former Faculty and Staff Reunion Lunch

• Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

• All-Alumni Reception

• Class of 1973 50th Reunion Class Dinner

• Off-Campus Gatherings

For a full schedule of events and to plan your Homecoming 2023 adventure, visit: wayland.org/homecoming

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14

• Fun Run

• Sol Wolfe `34 Pool Donor Plaque Ceremony

• All-Alumni Meeting & Brunch

• All-Alumni Photo on Wayland Hall Steps

• Afternoon Electives (see online schedule for options)

• ALL-CALL for Swimmers Reunion

• Wiedenhoeft Brothers Stone Circles Tour

• Heritage Society Reception

• Alumni Band Concert

• Field House Naming and Dedication Ceremony

• Alumni Dinner & Program at Old Hickory Golf Club— including a cocktail reception and class photos

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 15

• Memorial Service—recognizing all alumni and faculty who have passed away

• Alumni Brunch

DON ’ T MISS THIS YEAR ’ S SPECIAL EVENTS!

• Former Faculty and Staff Luncheon

• Heritage Society Reception

• Alumni Band Concert

• Field House Naming and Dedication Ceremony

ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME

Call for Nominations for 2024

During wayland ’ s annual Homecoming celebration in October 2022, the Athletic Hall of Fame celebrated its inaugural year. During the ceremony held in Wayland's Field House on October 14, ten individuals and one team were inducted–Sol Wolfe `34 (posthumously), Ray Patterson `40 (posthumously), Gretchen Trumpf `74, Butch Climmons `82, Kristen Westlake `82, Diane Alpaugh H`83, Mikki Hebl `87, Gabe Borrud `02, Terrence Wilson `02, Anne Rauschert Raisor `11, and the 1983 Boys Track and Field Team. It was a wonderful celebration!

The Athletic Hall of Fame committee is now determining the 2023 class and accepting nominations for the 2024 class of inductees. Nominees should be people who distinguished themselves as outstanding contributors to athletics while at Wayland Academy—as athletes, coaches, administrators, or in other roles. These are people who continued to exemplify the core values of athletics at Wayland Academy—Integrity, Respect, Caring, Gratitude, Passion—in their personal and professional lives.

Nominations are due by June 15, 2024, and can be submitted online at: wayland.org/athletic-hall-of-fame.

For more information, please contact Director of Advancement Carrie Ahlborn at cahlborn@wayland.org or 920-356-2120, ext. 222. We look forward to receiving your nominations as we continue honoring the great tradition of athletics at Wayland Academy.

Submit your nominiation today! wayland.org/athletic-hall-of-fame

ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME STEERING COMMITTEE

Jim Janik `74—Chair

Mick Maier `64

Elizabeth Traut Bosio `73

Mike VanHaren `82

Terrence Wilson `02

Gerry Cumpiano `06

Anne Rauschert Raisor `11

Diane Alpaugh H`83, Former Faculty

Bill Baxter H`83, Former Faculty

Kris Boucher H`90, Former Faculty

Dave Kasper H`81, Former Faculty

EX-OFFICIO

Carrie Ahlborn, Director of Advancement

Cody Schultz, Director of Athletics

Jason Warnick, Head of School

Terrence Wilson `02 and Jim Janik `74

Diane Alpaugh H`83, Gretchen Trumpf `74, Mikki Hebl `87, and Kristen Westlake `82

Erin Wilson (Lamm) `02

Leader. Advocate. Proud Wayland Alum.

onths before it was due, Wayland alum Erin Wilson (Lamm) had her senior thesis completed and ready to turn in (just ask Ms. Kesler H`08). Even in high school, she knew exactly where her passions lie.

“I originally thought I wanted to be a psychologist working with children in divorce, but when I learned that lawyers can be more helpful in the ways I was interested in, I decided to focus my efforts on law school. I am lucky in that I set a goal and worked hard and now am truly doing exactly what I set out to do.”

Upon graduating from Wayland in 2002, Erin earned her degree in psychology from Michigan State University. In 2005 she moved to Chicago and began law school at DePaul University. It was during her first year there that she met her future husband, Bryan. (Wayland classmate Abby Rehfeldt `02 was maid of honor in their 2011 wedding).

She practiced at a family law firm for ten years, and in 2019 she opened The Law Office of Erin M. Wilson LLC in Chicago.

“I loved where I worked, but having my own practice gives me the ability to focus my time advocating for children whose families are going through a divorce in my cases and for women in the legal field.”

In addition to handling traditional family law matters like divorce, support, and prenuptial agreements, her firm focuses on high conflict custody cases.

“Courts will appoint me as a Guardian ad Litem or Child Representative—meaning that when parents cannot agree on issues such as parenting time schedules, or how to make decisions for the children, I do an investigation and advocate for the children’s best interest.”

In just four years, she’s grown her business to include a partner, office manager, three associates, and several law clerks. The all-women team share Erin’s passion for advocacy and children.

“We work really hard and support one another. I value my team and I am so grateful that I get to do what I love every day–it may not be easy work but it’s very rewarding.”

In addition to her work advocating for her clients, Erin is an active member of the legal community. She sits on the boards of the following organizations: Association of Family and Conciliation Courts (AFCC),

Decalogue Society, the Force of Lawyers Against Sexual Harassment (FLASH), and DePaul University College of Law–Schiller DuCanto & Fleck Family Law Center, and is a member of the Women’s Bar Association of Illinois. Erin has been involved in the Illinois State Bar Association by being on the following committees: Young Lawyers Division, Child Law, Assembly, and is the chair of the Women and the Law Committee. She is a founding member of the Illinois Association of Independent Attorneys and the Lady Lawyers who Lunch (LLL). Lady Lawyers who Lunch is a group of family law women who own small or solo family law practices, and they support one another as well as associate attorneys through the Associate Lady Lawyer group.

“I have been lucky to be in leadership positions in the Chicago legal field and use this as a way to advocate for women. Ruth Bader Ginsberg is a major influence, and my favorite quote of hers is ‘Fight for things you care about but do it in a way that will lead others to join you.’”

Today—in addition to running their own, separate family law firms—Erin and Bryan have two children: a daughter, Ava (9), and son, Brecken (7).

Erin says her daughter feels connected to the sacred Wayland experience. “Ava has gone to overnight camp for the past two years and can’t wait to go again this sum-

“ Wayland gave me independence; I have forged my own way and worked hard to achieve my goals. Wayland solidified my work ethic, all while having a lot of fun. I enjoyed my time at Wayland–I made amazing, lifelong friends who have always been supportive of my goals.”

mer. She feels that she understands my boarding school experience because of going to camp, which I think is very cute.” Erin is also involved with her children’s school and their family temple.

Erin credits Wayland with preparing her with the grit, compassion, and a support system that’s helped her fulfill her dreams.

In addition to “Aunt Abby” (as her children call Abby Rehfeldt `02), Erin is still close with several of her Wayland peers, including Terrence Wilson `02, Lee Marchesi `99, and Alicia Kelly `99—with the new addition of Drews Gossel `00 to their dinner group.

“Because we grew up together, there is no subject that is off-limits at our dinners. The fact is, when you’re at Wayland, especially if you’re there for four years, you are growing up with your friends from ages 14-18 and living together. Only those that went through this experience can truly relate. It is an unbelievable experience, and I would not trade this with anyone.”

above In 2019, Erin opened The Law Office of Erin M. Wilson LLC in Chicago. Her all-female firm practices exclusively in family law, focusing on the child-centric side of domestic relations.

top left Class of 2002 graduates Abby Rehfeldt, Terrence Wilson, and Jordan Esten reconnect at Alumni Reunion 2022. bottom left Erin met her future husband, Bryan Wilson, during their first year of law school. Today they live in Chicago and have two children: Ava (9) and Brecken (7), and a second home in Saugatuck, Michigan.

John “JP” Johnson `16

As a student , John Paul Johnson could usually be found in Kimberly Chapel playing his favorite show tunes, practicing for the next concert, or hanging out with friends. Now, he’s a burgeoning trumpet player, proud to be a touring Broadway musician and Wayland alum.

After graduating from Wayland in 2016, JP attended Boston University—a classical conservatory with a high-level classical repertoire. With a keen interest in theatre developed at Wayland, he sought opportunities in the pit orchestra for the theatre department at BU. He also reached out to other young musicians who shared his passion for Broadway and film music.

Upon completing his senior year at BU in 2020, JP was faced with a difficult decision. “I began attending a graduate school that, for a multitude of reasons within and without the pandemic, was not the right fit. In what was one of the most difficult choices of my life, I decided to withdraw from grad school to try and seek different professional and collegiate opportunities. Yet not one day after submitting my applications for grad school, I was offered my very first touring contract, and the rest is history.”

Nowadays, and with no regrets, JP spends his days traveling across the country working with various Broadway tours. To date, he has participated in five national tours: South Pacific, American in Paris, A Chorus Line, ELF, and now Hairspray. In the last year, he’s visited 36 states.

“The travel schedule can get pretty rough! My first tour was a ‘one-nighter,’ where we only spent one night in every city, waking up at 5 a.m. to hop on the bus to the next city. But I could justify it when we got to that beautiful antebellum theatre and played some of my favorite music of all time. When I felt awful; when I got sick on the bus ride from Louisiana to Florida, but the first few bars of ‘Nicest Kids in Town’ forced a smile

on my face as I geared up for an incredible night of music-making ... there’s nothing that can compare to it.”

JP says that his favorite part of touring with Broadway is meeting people from different backgrounds—something he says he learned to appreciate from his time at Wayland. He’s also had the opportunity to see some of the closest friends he’s ever had, often for the first time since his Wayland graduation.

“One of the greatest pleasures of my life was getting to visit an old classmate, Asahi Mase `16, in Tokyo, a dear friend who I thought I would never see again.”

The trials of moving to a new city every week present their own unique set of challenges: working with different personality types, traveling long and inconsistent hours, and being away from home through it all. These days, “home” is Pennsylvania, just across the Delaware River; New York City is, by necessity, a short drive for him.

JP says he grew up “all over the place,” moving around a lot with his parents. He was living in Texas when his parents suggested he look into Wayland for his junior and senior years of high school. “Their specific desires matched up with Wayland’s mission in a truly magical way, and I think they made the right decision.”

JP arrived in Beaver Dam in 2014 and graduated in 2016. During his two years as a student, he felt right at home.

“Wayland played an interesting role in that it gave me not necessarily wanderlust, but a crystalized vision of what I’d want when I’m done touring. I truly enjoyed my time at Wayland, and while I know that schools are constantly evolving, and that the Wayland I know has long since transformed, the sense of place was incomparable. When I go looking to build a new home, Wayland's influence will flex its muscle to decide what that home will look like.”

LESSONS & CAROLS “With ringing the victory bell being a close second, Lessons and Carols has to be my favorite Wayland memory. I had the honor of being a part of the 50th Lessons and Carols, and we were truly honored to have the inimitable Dr. Chip Miller as our Kapellmeister for the year. His effervescent musical touch brought a magical element to the most hallowed ceremony of the year. Some students may claim it to be a dreadfully dull event, and I have learned that blaming people for a disdain of pomp and circumstance is a fool's errand, but to be a part of it instills a tremendous feeling of purpose and pride.”

JP Johnson `16 and Sophie Willihnganz `15 greet Lessons & Carols guests to Kimberly Chapel, December 2014.

In all the shows he’s played and places he’s been, JP says that not a day goes by that his time at Wayland doesn’t affect his work.

JP has enjoyed performing in the best halls the country has to offer, including Boston Symphony Hall, The Fabulous Fox, the Eccles Theatre in Salt Lake City, and many more.

Prior to his touring days, JP played with the New England Philharmonic, as well as the Highfield Philharmonic. He has studied under a wealth of immensely talented professors, including Mary Thornton, Terry Everson, Keith Lockhart, Robin Pyle, Eric Ruske—and of course, the legendary Mrs. Amy Throndsen H`14.

“ Wayland prepared me to be resourceful and articulate in my collegiate and professional career. Wayland, as a direct result of its focus on the liberal arts, produces some astoundingly good writers, and has an abundance of resources for the aspiring musician: a strong faculty of fine arts teachers, liberal access to the practice rooms in Kimberly Chapel, and probably the best practice room of one's life in the chapel itself. I look forward to the day Wayland has a hall to rival the Overture Center in Madison! ”

in MEMORIAM

We remember fondly the classmates, teachers and staff, and Academy friends who have passed from our presence on earth. Family members may contact Director of Donor Relations Kelly Neuert H`17 at kneuert@wayland.org to advise us of the passing of a loved one so that we may include them in our remembrances. Each year during Homecoming, we celebrate the lives of our alumni and friends who have passed during a Memorial Service in Kimberly Chapel.

Read additional details at wayland.org/remembrances

1930s

MARGARET BAIN CAMP `39 February 22, 2022

1940s

LAURA BADDAKER KEE `46 February 20, 2023

NOREEN ISON COOK `47 May 30, 2022

MAYNARD BURSTEIN `48 April 8, 2023

GRACE GILLETTE TROWBRIDGE `48 March 17, 2022

MARY WHITFIELD ERB `49 —February 18, 2023

1950s

JOHN UPHOFF `50 December 2, 2022

ROBERT STRAIN `51 October 29, 2022

SUSAN JORDAN PRESTON `54 December 3, 2021

TUCKER MCNAMARA `56 November 9, 2022

KATHLEEN FROMM LANE `58 April 10, 2021

DAVID SEARLES `58 December 17, 2022

JUDITH FISHER CONGEDO `59 January 6, 2023

1960s

PAUL CROMHEECKE `60 November 22, 2022

MARY KOCH BARCLAY `60 March 5, 2023

CAROLE RITTER WENAAS `60 December 14, 2022

JOAN BISHOP BORCHERDT `61 February 20, 2023

ROBERT KRATZ `61 P`91 September 23, 2022

ROBERT JOHNSTONE `61 July 22, 2022

HUGH WARD `61 August 27, 2012

JOAN GODSHALL DUDLEY `62 December 16, 2022

BETTY HULTQUIST SPIKER `65 February 8, 2019

JEANNE RUNDELL FRINK `67 May 10, 2023

ROBERT PEDIGO `68 October 29, 2022

1970s

BARBARA SZWEDA `71 February 8, 2023

JOSEPH BAUM III `76 June 23, 2022

GEORGE J. COBB `79 March 24, 2023

1980s

LANE SEAHOLM, USAF `82 March 26, 2023

DAVID STREET `83 April 7, 2023

1990s

KIERSTAN J. RICKEY `96 June 5, 2023

2010s

JOSHUA BLOCK `10 October 16, 2022

FRIENDS OF WAYLAND

NORMAN AKIN GP`96

October 6, 2021

CAROL BICKFORD BUSH

January 6, 2023

NICK BOLLETTIERI

December 4, 2022

DOROTHY DEMETER P`80

May 4, 2019

JOHN C. JUNG

December 27, 2022

REV. DR. JOHN F. SHAW

June 23, 2020

MARGARET STONE P`75

August 10, 2019

MICHAEL TRAUT P`73, 75, 79

November 13, 2022

In Memoriam: Nick Boletierri—1931-2022

Nick Bollettieri, internationally known as the most successful tennis coach of all time, died in December 2022 at his Florida home—also the location of his famous tennis boarding school. What many don’t know, however, is that the Nick Bollettieri Tennis Academy got its start at Wayland Academy.

It was Bollettieri’s friend, confidant, and Green Bay Packers head coach Vince Lombardi who recognized Nick’s talent for inspiring youth athletes and connected him with the athletics department at Wayland Academy.

Remembering John C. Jung—1927-2022

The Wayland community lost a longtime supporter and leader last year. John C. Jung was an invaluable voice on the Board of Trustees for more than three decades, serving as treasurer for many of those years.

More importantly, however, is the legacy John and his wife Mary left behind—his four children, all of whom graduated from Wayland: David `70, Dr. Charles `72, Dottie `75, and Peter `77. Pete’s son (John’s grandson), Matthew, graduated from Wayland in 2008.

Prior to being appointed to the board in 1977, John was an active member of the Wayland Parents Council. It was during Pete’s senior year that John accepted the position on the Board of Trustees. At the same time, John was vice president of J.W. Jung Seed Company–the wellknown family business started by his father, John W. Jung, in 1907.

After ten years as a trustee, in 1987, John earned Wayland’s Humanitarian Award, an honor bestowed upon those who “through extraordinary and exemplary work have done much to improve

the human condition and to make the world a better place in which to live.”

“Although he did not attend Wayland Academy, Dad’s connections to Wayland through my brothers and me, and then his Board service, were very important to him,” said Dottie Jung `75, who followed in her father’s footsteps and serves as a Wayland Trustee. “Wayland was very dear to his heart. He was always interested in my Wayland updates when I visited him in Arizona.”

John was born in Randolph in 1927, the third child of John W. and Wilhelmina (Blockwitz) Jung. In 1945, he graduated at the top of his class from St. John's Military Academy in Delafield, WI.

After graduating from UW-Madison in 1949 with a degree in agronomy, John returned to Randolph to join the family business. It was in his first years there that he met and married Mary Janet Fenelon. They were married in Madison on August 18, 1951.

John led an active life and enjoyed golf, skiing, hiking, gardening, and swim-

In the late 1960s and early ’70s, Wayland Academy’s brand-new Field House, Dye Dormitories, and Sol Wolfe Pool made Beaver Dam a prime location for youth summer programs. Over the years, the tennis camp division of Wayland’s AllAmerican Sports Camp attracted more than 650 ambitious players to the campus and featured exhibition matches from pros Marty Riesen, Arthur Ashe, and Bob Lutz.

In addition to running the summer sessions for several years, Bollettieri led Wayland’s regular tennis program from 1967-69. He moved to Florida in the late 1970s to start his tennis academy, where he continued to coach players until his death.

In his 91 years, Bollettieri coached 10 players to the Number One singles ranking in the world: Andre Agassi, Boris Becker, Jim Courier, Monica Seles, Mary Pierce, Maria Sharapova, Martina Hingis, Jelena Jankovic, Marcelo Rios, and Venus Williams and Serena Williams. He was inducted into 13 halls of fame, including the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2014.

ming at the YMCA well into his 80s. He especially loved his cottage on Two Sisters Lake, where he was inspired by the beauty and serenity of the Wisconsin Northwoods. After his retirement, John and Mary enjoyed traveling and spending time in warmer climates until she passed away in 2004.

In 2010, John married Judy Guenther Bock. They enjoyed many years together in Sun City West, AZ, before his passing on December 27, 2022.

At the impressive age of 95, John Jung leaves behind a legacy that goes beyond his wealth of business knowledge, experience, and leadership that he brought to the Wayland community. His most treasured legacy, however, is his family.

A celebration of life service was held in Arizona in January and in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin in June.

NEWS & NOTES

Jody Geyer Brotherston `50 recently shared, “As a Wayland graduate 73 years ago, I am amazed to find myself still on the planet!” Many years later, with degrees from Auburn University and Texas Tech University, Jody visited Spain for the first time with her husband, Colonel Joseph Brotherston (who was sent to the American Embassy in Madrid as the Director of Plans to assist Spain in becoming a NATO country). “Joe and I were quite touched to watch the NATO meetings in Madrid this past year, knowing what went into the successful process in the 1980s. The association with diplomats, artists, architects, museum directors, and scholars over the years inspired research, books, and publications.” Jody has lived part-time in Madrid, where she is a design consultant on historic interiors, specifically The Byne House, the official residence of the United States Deputy Chief of Mission in Spain, owned by the United States Government since 1942.

“Thank you, Ms. Pihlstrom, for your encouragement in English class at Wayland to use writing skills . . . as an Air Force wife and mother of Jeff and Jayme, it took a few years before the time was available. Wayland's small classes and comraderies are a large part of the school’s and students’ successes. As students in the class of 1950, we felt invincible and challenged to make a worthwhile difference in the world.”

Peter Keady `52 wrote, “At 90, I'm still active in sports and work. Plus, I returned home to IRELAND!”

Robert Tews `52 shared that he is the proud father of four children, a proud grandfather of 15 grandchildren, and a really, really proud great-grandfather of five great-grandchildren! “Of all the activities, I enjoyed the basketball tournaments at Wayland the most. My favorite memory was during a basketball game. We were down two points with one minute to go, and they fed me the ball, and I made a right-handed hook shot. The other team went down the court and missed a shot. When we came back down, they fed me the ball with two seconds left on the clock, and I made a hook shot to win the game. I'll never forget that. I went on to play sports at Carthage College.” Bob and his wife Paula live in The Villages, Florida.

James Thiel `63 shared, “Living the good life in Door County, Wisconsin. Playing a lot of golf in the summer and winter in California.”

Jeffrey Lasher `64 lives in Cody, Wyoming, and volunteers for Down Range Warriors, a faithbased organization providing suicide prevention services for veterans struggling with PTSD and other mental health issues. He also volunteers as a dog trainer at Park County Animal Shelter.

Barbara Lippert Fuhrman `67 shared, “We enjoyed Christmas with our children, grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.”

John Kreuz `68 credits Wayland Academy with instilling in him the discipline and work ethic necessary to cope with the stress of war. After

the Vietnam War, John attended Michigan State University, graduating in just two years. He then earned an MBA and Analyst Certification from the Wharton School of Finance. In 2000, at age 50, John became the oldest person ever admitted to law school (Marquette) in Wisconsin. In 2002, he became the first person in Wisconsin to graduate from law school in just two years. In 2020, he earned a Specialization in Biostatistics from Johns Hopkins. He is a member of the Bar in Wisconsin, Illinois, and his home state of Nevada. John was admitted to membership in MENSA in 1985.

For many years, John was a corporate pension fund manager. From 2002-2012 he was a legal and financial advisor to the NFL Players Union. His law practice is concentrated on Estate Planning and Taxation. John is a Founding Sponsor of the National Museum of the United States Army and has spoken to veterans on “coming home,” “coping with loss,” and “forgiveness.” He finished four Las Vegas Marathons. He and his wife, Joyce, have been married for 48 years, live in Las Vegas, Nevada, and are blessed with two children and two grandchildren.

On April 15, 2023, literary agents for John L. “Hammerhead” Kreuz announced that his diary from the Vietnam War will be published in the fall of 2023. This 500-page epic describes his 300+ days in combat, the missions, and the Vietnamese lady he loved. The diary disappeared just before he transferred to his final duty station as Acting Officer in Charge of the Army's mortuary in Saigon. John was told: “We can't publish this. It has no ending. What happened to the girl? Write the ending.” The ending, now complete, covers his last 30 days “in the country,” describes how he got his nickname, the emotionally draining operations of a morgue during wartime, the humorous story behind the diary's disappearance and its poignant return to him in 2020, and, finally, “what happened to the girl.”

Daniel Dreblow `69 recently shared, “After a 20-plus year career as a hospital director of business services (including Scripps Memorial Hospital in La Jolla, California), my wife and I created Dreblow and Associates—now a nationally known advertising consulting firm focusing on networking healthcare financial decisionmakers with elite vendor partners.” Dreblow and Associates also promotes and manages a National Speakers’ Bureau that coordinates the scheduling of healthcare professionals with state, regional, and national professional associations.

Charlotte Ruge Wiessner `69 brings over 30 years of experience representing private and public owners and contractors in the construction industry, focusing on industrial, heavy highway, and airport projects. Charlotte works with construction and insurance recovery practice groups. Charlotte is a trial and appellate attorney representing clients before federal and state courts and in arbitration. She frequently speaks for the American Bar Association Forum on the Construction Industry. Charlotte was named Best Lawyers in America Lawyer of the Year–Denver for construction law in 2014, and Best Lawyers in America Lawyer of the Year–Denver for insurance law in 2017.

John Caselli `71 retired at the end of December 2022 after 24 years with MSC Industrial Supply.

Glenda Pommerich Young `71 recently retired and moved to South Carolina to be close to family.

Kathy Stahmer `71 moved to southern Utah 17 years ago. She is retired from a horticulture supply company and loves living in the Mount Zion region in Apple Valley. Her brother is Richard Stahmer `72

1973 WILL BE CELEBRATING YOUR 50 th REUNION OCT 13-15, 2023! Please contact a committee member to help with planning. Committee members include Beth Traut Bosio (Etb1375@gmail.com), Shelley Greenwood (sgreenwood@latinschool.org), Rob Howard (robandcarole@gmail.com), Walter Koskinen (wakoskinen5@gmail.com), Curtis Radford (radrogue2@gmail.com), and Michael Yanikowski (myanikowski@mac.com).

Walter Koskinen `73 retired in June 2021, “spending time with our grandchildren, playing golf and pickleball, biking, and traveling during the winter months.”

Mark Birschbach `76 has been teaching advertising at Penn State for the last five years.

▲ Frederica Runge Freyberg `77 is the executive producer of news and anchor of Here & Now, PBS Wisconsin's live weekly program that covers news concerning state issues and politics throughout the state. Freyberg produces field reports for the program as well as news documentaries. With an extensive journalistic career that includes more than 30 years as a reporter, Freyberg initially worked as a reporter for WFRV-TV in Green Bay. She moved to Madison's WMTV-TV, where she produced, reported, and anchored. At Milwaukee Public Television, Freyberg was a reporter, producer, and host. While there, she worked with PBS Wisconsin on Wisconsin Week as a producer and substitute anchor. Freyberg returned to commercial news at WISN-TV in Milwaukee as a reporter before moving to WCCO-TV in Minneapolis, where some of her reporting assignments included covering western Wisconsin. Before coming to PBS Wisconsin fulltime, Freyberg was the state government reporter for Wisconsin Public Radio. Among a long list of other reporting awards, Freyberg holds several coveted Chicago Midwest Emmy Awards. In 2007, she was named one of the top journalists in the state by the Milwaukee Press Club. Freyberg also holds a UW-Madison School of Journalism Distinguished Service Award. Frederica recently shared, “I went from Wayland to the American School in Switzerland (TASIS) because my family moved overseas for my Dad's work. I graduated from Northfield Mount Hermon in Massachusetts when his duty ended there. I remember Wayland as very challenging and engaging. I was with the

first members of an 8th-grade class there, where I feel like I took mostly Freshman classes and participated in extracurriculars like tennis, ballet, and swimming. I know and understand Wayland has an excellent academic reputation. My sister, Beth Runge King `73 , was a graduate after attending all four years, and I know she got an excellent education!”

▼ Mary Weinkauf Seno `80 shared that she married Brad Pipia on June 4, 2023, in Geneva, Illinois.

“My whole family was there, including my brother Carl Weinkauf `77 . I’m working as a clinical admission nurse for Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital.”

Joseph Green III `82 continues volunteering as a docent for Washington D.C.’s Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. Joe led a museum tour for several Wayland staff and alumni during their visit to the Nation’s capital in November 2022. When he's not giving tours, Joe is the performance accountability coordinator at the Office of the State Superintendent of Education, serving Washington D.C.’s public and public charter schools in support of Career Technical Education (CTE) funding and programming.

Scott Millar`82 started a new position as a residential case manager at the Veterans Community Project of St. Louis, Missouri.

Hadley O'Regan `88 shared, “In 2016, I bought Casa Proserpina, located in San Miguel de Allende when visiting San Miguel for the first time. I immediately fell in love with the gorgeous and historical city, the wonderful people, and the vibrant culture. I worked to renovate the 400-yearold property into a luxury vacation Airbnb so that those who wish to travel have a wonderful place to stay in this amazing city. Business is booming with only 5-star Airbnb reviews-you can see all the info on Airbnb!”

monikadixon.com/blog/2019/9/16/san-miguel

Braden Tempas `88 and his wife live in the Washington D.C. area where he works as a project analyst, supporting the Program Director for the U.S. Navy. His wife works in communications for the World Wildlife Federation.

Emily Buchanan Townsend `89 shared, “Now that our two kids are in college, my husband and I have moved to Florida, which we have wanted to do for years. I would love to get together with others in the area!”

Marion Piette `91 wrote, “I only attended Wayland for my freshman and sophomore years, but it is still a big part of my educational and professional journey. I celebrated my 25th wedding anniversary with my wife, Kim, my highschool sweetheart whom I met my senior year of high school in Wausau. We have three amazing children: Preston, age 19; Elliana, age 16; and Landon, age 14. I continue to enjoy working in the aviation industry, currently as airport director of the Green Bay Austin Straubel Int'l Airport, and my wife continues to enjoy her career of teaching and education, currently pursuing her Doctorate in Education.”

▲ Julie Cunningham Petros `94 caught up with the Wayland crew team at a regatta in Michigan in May. She shared, “Please say hello to all and I truly hope everyone is happy and healthy!” Julie, her husband Steve, and her twin daughters, Elena and Adilyn, live in Ada, Michigan.

▼ Soni Parekh Pahade `95 and her daughter, Alana, visited Wayland in April. Soni has devoted her career to assisting and advocating for older adults and their families. As an aging life-care professional and owner of Aging Advisors, she leads a team of healthcare professionals who support community elders in their homes and facilities. Soni has 20 years of experience working in the field of gerontology. Her education includes a psychology degree with a specialty in gerontology from the University of Michigan and a Master's Degree in Gerontology from Hofstra University, where she graduated magna cum laude. In addition to care management, Soni has provided the community with educational workshops and support groups and has done outreach to the greater senior community. Soni is an advanced professional member of the Aging Life Care Association, a certified dementia practitioner, and a National Academy of Certified Care Managers member.

▲ Therese Klee Allison `82 wrote, “My husband, Kevin, and I moved from California three years ago to the Charlotte, North Carolina area. We have both retired, enjoy golf, and want to start traveling.”

Mike Grisham `84 is an attorney with Dorsey & Whitney LLP. He and his wife, Helena, live in Anchorage, Alaska.

Pr. Peter Bredlau `85 was recently on campus to be our Chapel Speaker on May 12. His message to the Wayland community was about building and maintaining your spirit. Based on his Wayland cross-country coach's advice to “maintain contact” with the runner ahead of you to finish strong, Peter encouraged the students to maintain contact with their spirit throughout life by being generous, showing grace, and saying thank you to those who help you along the way. Peter was a member of the State Champion 1983 Track team that was inducted into the 2022 Wayland Athletic Hall of Fame! Peter and his wife, Joanna, live in Moline, IL.

In addition to doing commercial modeling and acting work, Eric Wagenknecht `92 is an accomplished athlete with 40+ years of ski experience, runs ultramarathons, and is an avid climber, bowhunter, and mountaineer. Eric is available as a talented high-country guide with extensive knowledge of unique locations throughout Colorado. He has an amazing local talent & crew directory and location scouting expertise. He is also featured in campaigns for Ram Trucks, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Vail Resorts, Audi USA, Red Sky Ranch, Garden of the Gods Club, Game Creek Club, Keystone Ski Resort, and many others. Referrals are available upon request. Wags lives in Vail, Colorado, with his wife, Rachel, and their lovely children, Lily (12) and Axel (6), who are also experienced models.

Lesly Romero`92 is a certified child life specialist who is enjoying her first year at Bellevue, the oldest public hospital in the country. This is her inaugural full-time child life role, after having spent over twenty-five years in the education space as a teacher, learning specialist, and administrator. She lives in Queens, NYC, with her husband, Rey, two daughters, and, if her dreams come true, two dogs.

Neena Mahadev `96 is an assistant professor of social sciences (in anthropology) at Yale–NUS and was awarded Columbia University's prestigious Claremont Prize for the Study of Religion from the school's Institute for Religion, Culture, and Public Life, for her study of Buddhist-Christian relations in Sri Lanka.

Anabel Manchester Lopez `97 lives in Boise, Idaho, and has two boys, Calvin (9) and Julius Giles aka Jai (3). She owns two franchise locations of Office Evolution, an executive office suite and a co-working space. Her husband started the company in 2018, and when he passed away from cancer in 2019, Anabel took it over (with a few bumps in the road). “We just opened our second location, and it’s been very successful so far. I am lucky enough to live right near Maren Baker Swank `97 , and for a while, I also lived near Ben Warren `97 until he moved—we miss you, Ben! Maren, an incredible interior designer, helped me with the interior design of my house, which is my

Class of 2011 alumni, Leslie (Walton) and Matt Bruning were married on April 22, 2023. Many alumni, and even some faculty and staff, were in attendance to celebrate with them!

Pictured: Back (left to right)—Mark Rauschert `83, Hugh Walton `79, Levi Walton `06, Chris Booker `14, Mark Bruning `09, Michael Vaubel `12, Kevin Bruning `79, Allie (Bruning) Booker `14, Anne (Rauschert) Raisor `11, Rodney Miller (former Wayland CFO), Mackenzie (Miller) Barrett `11; Front—Craig Hill H`06 (former academic dean), Judy Hill H`08 (former director of advancement), Stephanie Hill `10, bride Leslie (Walton) Bruning `11, groom Matt Bruning `11, Caitlin Shetterley (former staff), Jacob Johnson `12, Kourtney (Ruegger) Green (`12), Kelly (Kinal) Sutich `79, Hayley Skreens (`09)

sanctuary. And, with everything that’s gone on the past few years, having a long-time dear friend nearby is so good. I wish you all the very best!”

Cassie Bobilya `98 left Texas last year and returned to Kansas. “My interest in learning foreign languages is still strong. I'm currently teaching myself Spanish and Croatian. I'm maintaining my French by watching TV, movies, news, and reading novels. I plan on revisiting German later this year as well. I won't bore you with what other languages are on my to-learn list, but I have learning materials for 14 languages (and I've dabbled in them all). My dream is to one day live in Europe—France preferably, but I'm open to other locations. I hope everyone is doing well.”

Chelsey Seippel `01 , Ed.D., was recently recognized by the Beaver Dam Area Chamber of Commerce, 40 under 40 Awards. Chelsey grew up in Vail, CO, and Beaver Dam. As president of The Peter J. Seippel Foundation, a non-profit philanthropic perpetual foundation designed to enhance the lives of families and communities worldwide, she coordinates business affairs and activities to assist other non-profit organizations. She serves as executive director for The Seippel Center for Music and the Arts. She has a doctorate in counseling psychology; a master's in marriage and family therapy; several life coaching, art history, and business planning certifications; and an accreditation in teaching English as a second language.

She serves as a board member for the Beaver Dam Area Community Theater and PAVE (Protect, Advocate, Validate, Educate). She is an officer of the Beaver Dam Elks Lodge, a member of the advisory committee for the Beaver Dam Area Foundation, Wayland Academy’s Engagement Committee and the BIG RED Tourney (golf tournament) Committee, Make a Wish Foundation, and the Women’s Auxiliary.

Michael Cassidy `03 works for Nova Coast and is a trusted advisor in information security, infrastructure core systems, and software development. He and his wife, Brittany, live in Costa Mesa, CA.

Breanne Rehfeldt `06 married Ryan Hoffmann on September 17, 2022, in Milwaukee, WI, where they first met while attending Marquette University. They live in northern Virginia near Washington, D.C. Breanne is a real

estate manager with CBRE, managing multiple commercial office buildings in D.C. and Virginia. Ryan is a supply chain program manager with Raytheon, where he leads the sourcing efforts for a cybersecurity program. He is also serving as a major in the Marine Corps Reserve. ▼

orthopedics. He and his wife, Caitlin, live in Dupont, Washington.

Madeleine Mindling `06 is an account executive for bmp creative in Los Angeles. In this role, Maddie works closely with the Netflix Film Marketing Team to transform interviews and footage into high-performing social videos for YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, building awareness and interest in upcoming film releases.

Maj B.A. Gandalf “Brendan” Lyon `07 was promoted to United States Marine Corps readiness portfolio manager in the U.S. Marine Corps Office of Legislative Affairs headquarters, serving as special staff to the assistant commandant for aviation. Gandalf lives in Virginia with his wife and three daughters.

2008 WILL BE CELEBRATING YOUR 15th REUNION OCT 13-15, 2023! Please contact a committee member to help with planning. Committee members include Walter Burtis (walterburtis@gmail.com), Anna January (annataylorjanuary@gmail.com), Katie Shank (shankkp035@gmail.com), Adam Benavides (benavadam@gmail.com), Mary Miller (maryfayemiller@gmail.com), Carlton Radford (cart235@yahoo.com), and Edgar Exerietis (eezerietis@gmail.com).

Adam Benavides `08 and his wife, Linse, welcomed a new addition to their family, Mathias Ralph Michael Benavides, on February 7, 2023.

Captain Zach Schwartz `10 graduated from medical school and, as a captain in the Army, is in

⊳ Proud parents Anne Rauschert Raisor `11 and her husband, Austin Raisor, welcomed baby Charlie Anne Raisor into the world on November 27, 2022. They live in Felicity, Ohio.

Megan Petersen `11 , president of the Wayland Alumni Board and Wayland Trustee, was promoted from a tutor to a TRIO/student support services advisor at Dakota County Technical College (DCTC). She works with first-generation, low-income, and disabled college students on everything from college success strategies to course registration to financial aid. She also helps with DCTC's TRIO grant reporting and coadvises the college's chapter of Phi Theta Kappa.

2013 WILL BE CELEBRATING YOUR 10 th REUNION OCT 13-15, 2023! Please contact a committee member to help with planning. Committee members include Randall Harris (randallharris2017@u.northwestern.edu), Jordan Roberts (jrobertslomax@gmail.com), Bryanna Michaletz (bmichaletz@wayland.org), and Landyn Heimerl (lheimerl@wayland.org).

▲ Jane Goski Krause `10 had a baby boy, Garrett Charles Krause, born on November 19, 2022.

Nick Ostermann `13 married Elly Krych in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on Saturday, October 8, surrounded by family and friends (many of whom were Wayland alumni). They live in Omaha, Nebraska, where Nick practices real estate law.

▼ Alicia Hubbard `16 and Can Ozbalkan `14 celebrated their marriage with a ceremony and reception at Swissotel The Bosphorus in Istanbul, Turkey, on July 21, 2022. Other Wayland community members in attendance were Kristene Boucher `97 and her husband Jim Lind, Sophia Romero Mora `16 , Arda Baykara `20 , and P.J. Osvald H `11 . Alicia and Can reside in Evanston, IL. Alicia works at Have Dreams as a life skills coach for adults with autism. She assists them with skills that help them to navigate their independence in their everyday life. Can spent this past year as assistant video coordinator for the Chicago Sky of the WNBA and is now the assistant women’s basketball coach at Purdue University Northwest.

▲ Gracien Jules `19, a member of the men's track and field team at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, was the recipient of the Impact Award during the athletic department’s annual awards show, the Golden Panthers, held in May. This award is given to the person that has made a positive and lasting impact on their peers and athletic department staff during their career as a student-athlete.

Jiri Zeman `19 is in his fourth year at the Illinois Institute of Technology. He was accepted into a program based on his outstanding grades, allowing him to earn a bachelor of science and a master's degree simultaneously in four and a half years instead of six. For his bachelor's, he will receive a degree in civil engineering and will also receive a master’s in construction engineering and management.

FORMER FACULTY

Since 2015, Scott Liddicoat (Wayland faculty member from 1984-1991) has been working with the National Science Foundation's Center for Renewable Energy— CREATECenter. He is retired from classroom teaching, but now teaches teachers—writing renewable energy lessons and conducting training workshops for high school and college faculty. At Wayland, Scott was a science teacher and taught the first ecology class, started the school recycling program (the first in the State of Wisconsin), and coached varsity basketball. Scott and his wife, Debra, live in Green Bay, WI.

Elizabeth Gascoigne `15 founded Absence of Proof, a series of events bringing New Yorkers together over non-alcoholic drinks for fun parties and other evening pop-up gatherings. Her first events launched in August 2022, bringing dozens of young people together to sip zeroproof drinks and revel in a night out without the threat of a hangover the next day. The events range from traditional parties with a DJ, dancing, and plenty of opportunities to mingle with other guests to celebrations centered around an activity like icebreaker games or a mocktail-making class. “I just want to show as many people as possible that you can still be cool, have fun, and you don't have to consume alcohol.”

Hieu Phan `16 is a software engineer at Apple in Seattle, WA.

Micah Ganske `16 recently moved to New Jersey to work at Allied Digestive Health.

Sarah Kallgren `17 has worked as an environmental consultant contracted with the EPA on remediation and community involvement for brownfields since graduating from George Washington University in 2021.

Can Emden `18 graduated from Arizona State University with a BS in Aerospace Engineering (Aeronautical) degree and now works as a manufacturing engineer at Honeywell Aerospace in Tempe, Arizona.

Milena Pak `18 graduated in 2022 from the University of Miami with a BS in Computer Software Engineering and now works as an AR/VR software engineer at Apple in California.

Abdul Rahman Ghafari`22 attends California Lutheran University, with plans to attend UCLA in the future, majoring in business and economics. He recently passed his real estate licensing and plans to go into residential real estate in the Santa Monica, Venice, and Marina del Rey areas.

Griffin Hughland `22 shared, “Columbia has a beautiful campus nestled in Harlem, which is wonderful. I have been able to catch up with a few old friends since moving out here. I have seen Trevor Noah on The Daily Show twice and even got to ask him about his book (Mr. Cleary was proud). Additionally, I saw Colbert and got Eric Holder to sign my copy of his new book. I've really gotten to take advantage of this city. As far as the actual college schooling goes, classes are hard but rewarding. Wayland prepared me very well, especially the English department— special shout out to Kurt Walters H`11 and Martha Kesler H`08, who have prepared me beyond the Ivy standard. I am currently going for a double major in political science and economics. I MAY try to double-major with my economics BA and philosophy BA if I have the course room, so my degree is a tad ambitious. Otherwise, I am a member of the pre-law society, a philosophy/ literature club, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. My main extracurricular time commitment is reserved for Columbia Democrats, where I was elected lead organizer this winter. I will be working as a legislative inter to Wisconsin State Senate Minority Leader, Melissa Agard, and look forward to furthering progressive policies across WI and serving the constituents of District 16.”

(See page 21 for more about Griffin `22.)

▲ Dr. Patrick Slane (Wayland Faculty from 1978-1982) works for the Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian and is the Director of the Chandra X-ray Center, which controls science and flight operations for the Chandra X-ray Observatory, NASA's flagship mission for X-ray astronomy. His research centers on high energy astrophysics, with concentration on the aftermath of massive stellar explosions (supernova remnants, young neutron stars, and pulsar winds). Dr. Slane has supported the scientific community as a member of the Executive Committees for the High Energy Astrophysics Division of the AAS and the Division of Astrophysics of the APS. He has been the recipient of numerous NASA Group Achievement awards and Smithsonian Superior Accomplishment awards and has been elected as a Fellow of the APS. He remains involved in a variety of educational outreach activities to bring science topics to schools and the public, and in supervising the research efforts of undergraduate and graduate students. Pat met his wife, Kathleen (Kathy) Olson, when he was teaching at Wayland. Kathy—Ms. Olson, during her time at Wayland—taught biology and chemistry at the Academy from 1979 until 1982 . Pat and Kathy were married in 1982. Kathy went on to work as an environmental engineer for the Wisconsin DNR and then for an engineering consulting firm in Massachusetts. She is now retired and enjoys bird watching, biking, exploring the trails near their home with their dog, and doing fun things. Pat and his wife, Kathy, live in Lexington, Massachusetts, have three grown children (who live near them), and like to travel domestically and internationally.

Wayland Academy is pleased to welcome two new members to its Board of Trustees, John K. Miller `05 from Mount Horeb, WI and Randall Harris II `13 from Chicago, IL. Their dedication to excellence aligns perfectly with Wayland’s mission.

“We are very excited to welcome John and Randall to the Board. As young professionals with expertise in finance, they bring a fresh perspective to our group.”

—David Larson `71, Board Chair

JOHN K. MILLER `05

John earned his Bachelor of Business Administration and Management degree from St. Norbert College and entered the finance industry right after graduating in 2010. With positions at companies like BMO Harris, Penn Mutual, and Russel Investments, John was able to travel the country, experiencing life in Illinois, Michigan, Washington, California, Kansas, and Missouri. Today, John serves as market director with Thrivent Financial, based out of Madison.

John previously served on the Alumni Board from 2014–2020 and on the Board of Trustees as the Alumni Board Chair from 2017-2018.

As a student at Wayland, John played football, basketball, and baseball. He was a member of the Film Club, J.S.A., and was part of the Quiz Bowl Team.

John and his wife, Emily, live in Mount Horeb, WI, with their daughters, Valeria and Adeline.

RANDALL HARRIS II `13

After graduating from Wayland in 2013, Randall Harris attended Northwestern University, earning a bachelor's degree in computer engineering. Shortly after graduating, he decided to go in a different direction and follow his passion for increasing financial literacy, especially in marginalized communities. Randall began building a national financial planning practice with Northwestern Mutual, based out of Chicago, Illinois. He quickly won several awards, including the Rookie of the Year award for the Chicagoland agency, and became one of the top young advisors in the nation. His practice currently serves over 400 clients, consisting mainly of physicians, attorneys, business owners, engineers, and professional athletes, across 30 states. Randall also spends a lot of his time speaking to schools and organizations to educate students and others on financial wellness.

Outside of his work in the financial education space, Randall enjoys creating and performing music under the stage name Prez Harris. Music, which he started as a hobby at Wayland, has allowed him to perform in venues across North America. In 2022, Harris released his EP entitled HOURGLASS. In 2023, he embarked on an international tour called the Glass Half Empty Tour. It included stops in Milwaukee, Toronto, Atlanta, New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago.

During his time at Wayland (2009-2013), Randall was a prefect, served as class president, and was involved with clubs, performing arts groups, and sports, including: Wayland News Today, Wayland Sports Today, Writing Center Tutors, Chamber Ensemble, basketball, baseball, track, and soccer. He was a co-salutatorian for the class of 2013 and was awarded the Wiseheart Cup.

“Being a part of the Wayland family has been one of the greatest honors of my life, and I am thrilled to continue that legacy by serving as a member of the Board of Trustees! It is an opportunity for me to give back to an institution that has given me so much and to ensure that future generations of students can benefit from the same exceptional education and community that Wayland has provided me.”

—Randall Harris II `13

Todd Newell Alexander is the great-great-grandson of the founders of Wayland Academy, Benjamin F. Newell and Mary Eliza Barrett Newell. Todd is now actively involved with Wayland as a member of the Engagement Committee. Last fall, Todd visited campus from his home in Columbus, OH, to see first-hand what his great-great grandparents’ legacy had become.

“I see sharp, accomplished instructors who lead with empathy, and a student body that is thriving and growing up as beautiful human beings,” he said in an address to the Wayland community.

It wasn’t until late 2020 that Todd learned of his unique connection to Way-

land Academy through Benjamin F. and Mary Eliza Newell.

“I’m most gratified to see the confirmation of my family values that have been passed down to me from Benjamin and Mary Eliza. Their tireless work, their sacrifice, and their desire to serve and please other people is really gratifying to me. It really confirmed the beautiful things [students] have enjoyed over the years.”

Upon his return from visiting Wayland last fall, Todd shared photos and spoke about the experience with his extended family, emphasizing the themes of family, diversity, and interconnectedness that is obvious on campus.

Inspired by the idea of her ancestors’

legacy, Todd’s niece, Becky Kloberdanz enrolled her son, Eli Koreny, in the upcoming Summer Experience at Wayland. Eli is the great-great-great-great grandson of Benjamin F. and Mary Eliza Barrett Newell.

Todd stays connected with Wayland by supporting Wayland events and recently was part of the third-place team at the 2nd Annual Big Red Tourney!

above Todd Newell Alexander, descendent of Wayland’s founders.

HERITAGE SOCIETY

Jeffrey Hawley `75

a day student living just three blocks from the Wayland campus in the 1970s, Jeffrey Hawley says his parents’ frugality growing up was frustrating—not understanding why their family of seven had to share three bedrooms and one bathroom. Now, a recent retiree living in California, Jeff looks back on his father’s spending (or lack thereof) with a new appreciation. “My dad clearly did not believe in spending money on our place of residence—but what he did believe in was education.”

Jeff and his four siblings all graduated from college and went on to receive advanced degrees. It’s for these reasons—and the fact that his mother taught kindergarten for 18 years—that he chose to designate Wayland as a part of his living trust.

Jeff retired in 2022, after 52 years of working—including a fouryear stint in the early 1970s at Saga Foods (Wayland’s dining services provider). Today, his days are filled with riding e-bikes, tennis, yoga, swimming, and piano lessons.

Jeff encourages his fellow Wayland alumni to consider the value of the support from teachers and coaches while at Wayland.

“Would you have gotten this far today without the help of the Academy? Putting your estate together is a good time to review your life’s accomplishments and dig deep into your hearts and make a decision as to whether or not you feel your high school deserves a place in your trust.”

Join the Heritage Society

Alumni, parents, grandparents, and friends of Wayland Academy can become members of the Heritage Society by including Wayland in their estate plans or by making the Academy a beneficiary in their wills, retirement plans, life insurance policies, etc.

Join the Heritage Society today by informing Wayland Academy of your intention to leave a legacy gift to the school. Contact Director of Advancement Carrie Ahlborn (920-356-2120, ext. 222 or cahlborn@wayland.org) for more information about planned giving options.

wayland.org/planned-giving

PLANNED GIVING

Thanks to the financial support and bequests of dedicated individuals to increase the Academy’s endowment, planned gifts help provide support for future generations of Wayland students. The Academy received more than $558,000 from planned gifts in 2022–2023, thanks to former faculty member Pat Barkhuff H`56, alumni and former Trustee Harry “Skip” Cody `58, and Rev. Dr. John F. Shaw, widower of Julia Pickard Shaw `47. Pat’s gift was designated to support the Department of Fine and Performing Arts, while Skip and Dr. Shaw’s gifts were unrestricted bequests. Skip was always passionate about admissions, outreach, and scholarships—so the funds from his bequest support marketing and communication initiatives to promote a Wayland education and provide scholarship and financial aid for students. This includes establishing the Skip Cody Memorial Scholarship. Working with Dr. Shaw’s daughters, Juliann Shaw Phillips and Jennifer Shaw, it was determined to designate his bequest to cover the cost of the replacement roof needed for Pickard Dining Hall (which will be named in the family’s honor), contribute funds to name a dorm room in Burnham Hall, and provide funds for scholarship and financial aid.

Bequests made to Wayland help support quality education for many generations to come and can offer tax-wise gift possibilities.

“I think it is important for Wayland to continue on long after I’m not around—that is why we included Wayland in our living trust.”

above Class of 1975 Wayland graduate Jeffrey Hawley and his dog Gizmo. Jeff and his wife, Rose, recently named Wayland Academy in their estate plans.

Wayland Academy

GREETINGS

If you are receiving this magazine and it is addressed to a Wayland alumni or friend who previously lived at your address, please contact alumni@wayland.org to provide updated mailing information for this person.

Save the Date

JULY 9-21

Summer Experience at Wayland Academy wayland.org/summerexperience

AUGUST 23

2023-2024 School Year Begins—Classes Resume

SEPTEMBER 8

Fox River Valley Gathering, hosted by Don and Janet Sharp Turner `56

SEPTEMBER 28

Denver Area Gathering, hosted by Jennifer and Jeff Tempas `63

OCTOBER 13

Former Faculty and Staff Reunion Luncheon

OCTOBER 13

2023 Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

OCTOBER 13-15

2023 Homecoming— Alumni Reunion & Family Weekend

OCTOBER 14

Sol Wolfe `34 Pool Celebration

NOVEMBER 3-5

Fall Musical— Shrek

NOVEMBER 28

GIVING TUESDAY

DECEMBER 7-11

Online Holiday Auction

DECEMBER 10

59 th Annual Festival of Lessons and Carols