Faculty & Staff Recognition

Years of Service Awards

Each year, WMA honors faculty and sta who reach milestones for their years of service to the Academy. The following 16 people—with comments from colleagues—are recognized through the end of the 2021 calendar year.

5 years

Mark Aimone Director of Advancement “Mark Aimone knows boarding schools from the inside out. As a Tabor grad and having worked in many top-notch prep school programs, his wealth of knowledge goes well beyond his formal role as the leader of our O ce of Advancement. Mark is a boarding school person through and through, and will do whatever is necessary at any time. Add to this the fact that his wife is a WMA alumna and his daughter is a proud Titan in the Class of 2022, and it’s easy to understand why we feel so lucky to have Mark and his family here at WMA.”

— BRIAN EASLER, HEAD OF SCHOOL Cora Gauvin Faculty, Mathematics “Any student should consider themselves lucky to have Ms. Gauvin as their math teacher. She is organized and thorough in her preparation and delivery, even in the way she makes tests. She is a dynamo with technology. She does a great job knowing what resources the electronic textbooks have to o er and sharing that knowledge with others.”

— MARK FISCHER, MATH DEPARTMENT CHAIR

Russ Held Director of Electronic Communications “Russ not only embodies a true team player, but he is innately kind, genuine, patient and gets along with everyone. When not behind the computer, proofreading our alumni magazine or working with his advisees, he frequently shows his dedication to WMA at athletic events, performing arts events or photographing Titan for one of his social media stunts. We are lucky to have Russ on our team.”

— TEDDY RYAN, DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

Jamie Gouin Faculty, Middle School Science “Mr. James Gouin embodies an enthusiasm and passion for education that motivates 6th and 7th grade scientists to connect, collaborate and problem solve, utilizing a “learning by doing” approach and simulating real world challenges in projects such as “Boom Town” and “Future City.” A coach both in and out of the classroom, Jamie holds himself to the same high standards he sets for his students—eagerly showing up, willingly putting in the hours and e ort, consistently reflecting on his game plan and execution, making necessary adjustments along the way, and celebrating successes.”

—MEAGHAN CAVANAUGH, MIDDLESCHOOL FACULTY, HUMANITIES

Anthony Kandel Faculty, History & Global Studies “Dr. Kandel brings decades of school experience to a seasoned department, easily connecting with students in the class, dorm and fields while bringing a sharp mind to departmental and academic team discussions. His energy level and enthusiasm are appreciated by all as he guides students through understandings of modern government. We are lucky to have him here contributing as he does to all areas of the school.”

— WALLY SWANSON, DEAN OF FACULTY Chris Reed Director of Facilities “Chris Reed had no experience with prep schools before arriving at WMA, but he knows a thing or two about family ... and he quickly made himself a valued member of the WMA family. His dedication to this school, often requiring a delicate balance of needs versus resources, has been the force of significant change which has positively impacted every member of the school.”

— BRIAN EASLER, HEAD OF SCHOOL

Sommer Mahoney ’11 Faculty, History & Global Studies “Fully immersed—on a di erent level—Sommer Mahoney has returned to WMA to encourage, mature, inspire and shape a new generation. Sommer, the student, raised the bar in the classroom while challenging and questioning everyone and everything around her. She now celebrates five years of answering those questions, teaching History and AP Geography, coaching Girls’ Soccer and Rugby, leading the Harvard Model UN program, living in a dormitory, advising and involving herself in campus life and student programs.”

— GARY COOK, FACULTY, HISTORY Tess Presnal School Counselor “Tess has increased the community’s awareness and education regarding physical, mental and emotional health. By empowering students, she’s supported them on their journey in understanding their needs and what they need to live healthfully while at WMA and after. Tess has also helped our faculty and sta learn how they can support our students’ health as well.”

— LIZ SQUINDO, DEAN OF STUDENTS

Valeri Wallace Director of Library Services “Valeri brings an incredible wealth of knowledge to the AP Capstone program, teaching our students research methods and standards so well. She also oversaw the transition to the beautiful new Athenaeum and created a lovely, welcoming environment and community for book lovers, readers and scholars on campus.”

—MEG HUTCHESON, ENGLISH DEPARTMENT CHAIR

10 years

Amy Crocker Director of Health Services “I am so happy I contacted Amy over 10 years ago and asked her if she would be interested in applying for a nursing position at WMA. I met her as a nursing student several years earlier, and I never forgot her great energy and professionalism. I knew she would make a wonderful addition to the nursing sta at WMA, and she has never let me down as she continues to provide the highest standards of nursing care. I have been so fortunate to have Amy by my side every day for the past 10-plus years ,and I look forward to working with her several more years to come.”

— ROSEPOWER, HEALTH SERVICES STAFF

Luke Pelletier Middle School Faculty – Science Director of the STEM Lab “During my time as a teacher at WMA, Mr. Pelletier has always been a standout teacher, coach, mentor and friend. Mr. Pelletier has a wealth of information on a wide range of topics, such as science and math, Lego robotic programming, vintage cars, carpentry, and most recently he’s been a strong leader within the Middle School Mountain Biking Club.”

— DREW SHEA ’08, FACULTY, WORLD LANGUAGES Jes Rohan Middle School Faculty – Humanities “JRoh’s enthusiasm for life is infectious. Her positive attitude, ‘in-your-face’ approach to sharing her love of books and writing leave her students wanting more. You can be your true self around JRoh because of her caring and comforting nature, giving students and faculty the opportunity to feel confident to reach their potential. I feel blessed to have her as a coworker and friend.”

— KAREN DUFRESNE, MIDDLESCHOOL

FACULTY, MATHEMATICS

15 years

Liz Squindo Dean of Students “We all knew, when she was a full-time faculty member, that Elizabeth Squindo had tremendous leadership potential. It was plainly evident in every interaction and engagement with her. Since the day she was appointed interim Dean of Students and shortly thereafter the permanent Dean of Students, Liz has consistently impressed the WMA community with her thoughtfulness, her composure, her rational approach, her calm reassurance, her organizational skill and, perhaps most importantly, her optimism and infectious laugh. Liz Squindo is truly a remarkable boarding school leader, and we are grateful to benefit from her steady influence and her generous heart. The students and the school could not ask for a more balanced and capable Dean.”

— BRIAN EASLER, HEAD OF SCHOOL

Je Vartabedian Faculty, Middle School – Health “Je is a true Titan. He is kind, thoughtful and hard-working. He is one of the nicest people I know and he can always be found with a smile on his face. His students and athletes value their time with him knowing that he will somehow make a positive impact on their day. I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with Je developing and teaching the Health curriculum.”

— CHRISTA ROBINSON, MIDDLESCHOOL

FACULTY, HEALTH

25 years

Erika Whipple Head Athletic Trainer/Assistant Director of Athletics “It continues to be a great pleasure to work closely with Erika. Her role within the Athletic Department and within our school is so critical, as well as so wide ranging. She is dependable,

45 years

Don Kelly Faculty Marshal – World Languages “Don Kelly is truly a pillar of the Academy. Honestly, I can hardly imagine WMA without his presence in it—and I don’t want to. Don literally raised his family on this campus and has dedicated more than half of his life in service to his students and his peers. His influence over the years, as teacher, coach, dorm parent, dean (more than once) and advisor to both students and adults has been so extensive and so pervasive that one can hardly speak of the school without highlighting the impact of Mr. Kelly. A ectionately referred to by his peers as ‘DK,’ we all know we can depend on him for an attentive ear, a gentle piece of advice, a good joke or a thoughtful insight based on his long and meaningful experience. DK is at once a trusted confidant and an unassuming leader of the school. He is the voice of reason and calm sensibility. He is a man of service, faith and commitment, and WMA has been incredibly fortunate to have him in the community for these past 45 years. We look forward to many more. Semper ubi sub ubi, Mr. Kelly.”

hardworking and thorough. These are all characteristics which I value so greatly in the administration of our extensive and varied Afternoon Program o erings in sports and activities.”

— DON NICHOLSON ’79, DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS

— BRIAN EASLER, HEAD OF SCHOOL

Current full-time Faculty & Staff with 10 or more years through Dec. 31, 2021

(with current position/department)

Don Kelly, World Languages (45) Gary Cook, History & Global Studies (42) Don Nicholson ’79, Director of Athletics (38) Charles D’Avanzo, Science (32) Todd Jenkins, Maintenance (32) Bill Passy, Director Security (31) Doreen Majka, Athletics (28) Erika Whipple, Athletics (25) Erik Kindblom, Dean of Academics & Institutional Analysis (24) Marxan Pescetta, Director of Information Technology (24) Brian Easler, Head of School (23) Sandi Scott, College Counseling (23) Lucie Ziemba, Health Services (22) John Boozang, Director of College Counseling (21) Mark Fischer, Chair, Mathematics (21) Kate Gaw, Director of Admission & Financial Aid (21) Rose Power, Health Services (21) Sarah Wakelin, Advancement (21) Meg Lenihan Hutcheson, English Chair (19) Anne Kindblom, English as a Second Language (19) Tina Girhiny, Advancement O ce (18) Brian Lautenschleger, World Languages (18) Linda Pietras, Business O ce (18) Paul Bloomfield, Chair, Fine & Performing Arts (17) Michael Dziura, English/History & Global Studies (17) Tim Harrington ’73, English (17) Caroline Smith, Executive Assistant to the Head of School (17) Wally Swanson, Dean of Faculty (17) Susan Dziura, Fine & Performing Arts/English (16) Stuart Whitcomb, Director of the Middle School (16) Je Vartabedian, Health and Physical Education (15) Gayle Hsiao, CEEF/Director of International Student Program (14) Maureen Kelly Chesky ’02, College Counseling (14) David Weeks, Athletics (14) Barbara Conlon, Registrar (13) Staci Kelley, Administrative Assistant (13) John Lombard, Mathematics (13) Mike Mannix, Dean of Residential Life (12) Josh Bain, Information Technology (11) Bill Rosenbeck, English (11) Clark Seibold, Fine & Performing Arts (11) Amy Crocker, Director of Health Services (10) Luke Pelletier, Science and Computer Science (10) Jes Rohan, English (10) Elizabeth Fontaine Squindo, Dean of Students (10)

If These Walls Could Talk

A snapshot of the Athletic Equipment Office run by David Weeks, our Athletic Equipment and Facilities Supervisor. Within the Athletic Center walls, behind a silver rolling partition hang the jerseys, pinnies and other red, white and blue apparel that so many Titans have proudly worn on the playing field, on the court, on the mat, in the pool or on the pitch. If these walls could talk, they would share the countless stories of triumph, of heartbreaking loss, of teamwork and leadership, and elation or bittersweet endings to WMA athletic journeys.

Of literal blood, sweat and tears. Of group huddles and loud cheering sections. Of rivalry and camaraderie. Of unique bonds that only Titan athletes can share.

If these walls could talk, they would tell all who would listen how, for 14 years and counting, Mr. Weeks has cared for these uniforms and this equipment. If these walls could talk, they would tell of the pride and care that he takes in keeping them neatly sorted by team and season, clean and tidy, ready for the next competition. Ready for future Titans.