Mx2 Meeting Goals, Moving Forward

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MiddlesexFall 2015

MIDDLESEX fall 2015 i From the Head of School

A Thriving Community

It has been a whirlwind fall on campus after the responsibility of continual school im- a summer that saw the completion of the provement, and a two-year self-study, con- Clay House renovation, the installation of ducted by a faculty steering committee, is the geothermal heating and cooling system the heart of this effort. This process invites for our new Music and Campus Center, and and requires a school to consider and recon- the beginning of the foundation for Landry sider everything it does, from mission to House on the rise across from Clay. While student and faculty experience to infrastruc- I anticipated a great deal of enthusiasm for ture; it requires hours of committee and these projects, I did not anticipate the energy subcommittee time, surveys and data collec- and optimism they would infuse into the tion, analysis and consensus-building. All community. of this work is designed to invest the energy It’s exciting to solve some long-standing of the faculty and the entire community in problems; it’s exciting to watch the transfor- strengthening a school for the benefit of mation of the old steam plant into a beautiful, its students. green home for academics and—finally!—for Our steering committee (Ken Risley, music. And it is wonderful to watch—from chair; Terry Cunningham, Tom Kane, Kerry close range at the Head’s House—the new dorm Magee, and Ashok Pillai) organized a compre- taking shape, all the more so as the dorm is hensive, highly professional effort, and the a testament to the lifelong friendship that result was a self-study report that aligned Middlesex started at Middlesex between Victor Atkins closely with our strategic plan but with its Fall 2015 ’63 and Kevin Landry ’62, and that developed own independence and reasoning. When

Head of School further as the Landry children—Chris ’88, the visiting committee members arrived, Kathleen Carroll Giles Kim ’89, and Jen ’94—attended Middlesex they affirmed all of our recommendations Director of Development Heather Parker and engaged their parents, Barrie and Kevin, and commended the School for the high Director of Advancement even more deeply in the School. That Landry degree of integration of mission into George Noble Editor House will also have a beautiful common everything we do; the close, supportive Maria Lindberg room, given as a 50th reunion gift by the relationships between teachers and students Design Class of 1962, is yet another testament to (especially in advising); and the attainment NonprofitDesign.com Photography the enduring strength of these lifelong rela- of a happy, healthy, thriving school. Joel Haskell, Tim Morse, tionships that took root in the earliest days When one takes into consideration Robert D. Perachio, Tony Rinaldo of adolescence. It is a great pleasure to watch the full range of activity and work going on

Letters to the Editor Letters to the the campus coming together for the next at Middlesex today—in our classrooms, on editor are welcome and may be edited for clarity and space. Please send your century in these ways, still retaining the our fields and stages, in the houses, and in letters to Editor, Middlesex Bulletin, feeling of timeless grace we love so much. our relationships—that final praise, “happy, 1400 Lowell Road, Concord, MA 01742, or e-mail [email protected]. This fall, we also welcomed a visiting healthy, and thriving,” is the best assessment Alumni News We welcome news from committee as the final stage of our ten-year for which anyone might hope. That’s the alumni, parents, and friends of Middle- sex School. Please send your news and reaccreditation work with the Commission school we want to be. labeled photographs to Alumni News, Middlesex School, 1400 Lowell Road, on Independent Schools of the New England Concord, MA 01742, or e-mail alumni@ mxschool.edu. Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). Address Corrections Please notify Accreditation through NEASC carries with it us of your change of address. Write to Middlesex School, 1400 Lowell Road, Concord, MA 01742 or e-mail alumni@ mxschool.edu. Parents of Alumni If this magazine is addressed to a son or daughter who no longer maintains a permanent address at your home, please advise us of his or her new address. Thank you! Contents

Mission Statement Features

16 Mx2: Meeting Goals, Moving Forward Middlesex School is an independent, non-denominational, residential, With committed funds now surpassing $170 college-preparatory school that, for million, Mx2: The Campaign for Middlesex has over 100 years, has been committed met its residential life goals and is gathering to excellence in the intellectual, momentum as it moves into its final year. ethical, creative, and physical development of young people. We honor 20 Alumni Weekend the ideal, articulated by our founding Whether marking 80 years since graduation Head Master, of “finding the promise” or just five, Middlesex alumni returned in record in every student, and we work numbers to celebrate with their longtime friends together in an atmosphere of mutual at their familiar campus home. trust and shared responsibility to help students bring their talents to 24 A Fond Farewell fruition as knowledgeable, capable, After 35 years of teaching English and serving responsible, and moral citizens the School in a variety of roles, Jim Beaton has of the world. As a community, we respect the individual interests, decided to enjoy his well-deserved retirement. strengths, and needs of each student. We also value the rich diversity 26 Graduation of belief and experience each of The class of 2015 showed its true colors, us brings to the School. braving the rain and joyfully celebrating their achievements, despite the inclement weather. We expect that each student will bring his or her best efforts to the shared endeavor of learning and that the School, through its faculty, will engage and encourage each Departments student’s growth, happiness, and well-being. We aspire for all 2 Life 360 Middlesex students to develop New Colleagues; Endowed Chairs Designated; personal integrity, intellectual New Trustees; Embracing Service; Growing Good vitality and discipline, and respect Food; Concord’s Changing Climate; International for themselves and for others. Immersion; Ragtime We expect each student to engage energetically and cooperatively in the life of the School, and we seek 10 Middlesex People to inspire in all students the desire Graduation Speaker Eric Kester ’04; Mentoring to seek understanding of them- Mindfulness; Distinguished Alumnus Ned selves and the larger world, Seligman ’65; Kara Johnson ’91 Opens STEM both now and in their futures. Series; 40 Years of Middlesex Alumnae

14 Team Highlights On the Cover A Track Championship and a Lacrosse The last dormitory slated All-American marked the 2015 spring season. for renovation, Clay House— with a new dormer and main 29 Alumni Notes and News entrance —was ready for Class Notes; In Memoriam occupancy in September. Photo by Joel Haskell. 48 Back Story Recovery

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Katie will coach field hockey, ice hockey, and—of course—lacrosse, helping the girls’ program while her uncle, Ned Herter ’73, continues to lead the boys’ varsity. Serving as the director of multicultural and community development, Pascale Musto is a seasoned teacher, coach, dorm parent, and administrator. For the past three years, he was the dean of students and school life at Tilton School, where he oversaw residential life, coordinated student government, and designed curriculum and community programs. A graduate of Choate Rosemary Hall and Salve Regina University, Pascale is teaching history. Rebecca Smedley has taken on the role of director of spiritual and ethical education. At Haverford School for the last 11 years, she taught English and served in a variety of advisory roles. In prior appointments, Rebecca has served as a school chaplain Among this year’s new faculty and dorm parent. A graduate of Agnes Irwin are (from left to right) Caroline Introducing New O’Donnell ’11, Will Cronin, Emily School and Wellesley College, she earned her Jones, Jasmin Baek, Pascale Faculty and Staff M.Div. at Princeton Theological Seminary. Musto, Katie Herter, and Rebecca is teaching English and electives Stephen Koelz. Along with all the new students who matric- in religious studies. ulated in September, Middlesex happily The English department also welcomed welcomed 11 colleagues to the school three full-time colleagues. Will Cronin began community. his teaching career at Berkshire School after A graduate of Phillips Academy and graduating from Williams College. Having MIT, Jasmin Baek brings her understanding just earned an M.A. in English at Fordham of adolescents and schools to the admissions University, he returns to the classroom and office. After serving as an educational consul- the athletic field, coaching football and base- tant in Korea, she earned her Ed.M. at Harvard ball. Emily Jones recently completed an Graduate School of Education and interned M.A. in English at Georgetown University, in the admissions offices of MIT and Harvard’s where, as an undergraduate, she was a two- School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. year co-captain of the cross-country and With experience teaching English and math, track teams—and led the 2011 squad to a Jasmin may take on a math section next Division I National Cross-Country Champion- spring. ship. An All-American in cross-country and Katie Herter is teaching math and classics, Indoor Track’s MVP in 2011, Emily will sup- having taught both subjects at McDonogh port both Middlesex programs and live in School. An accomplished athlete, Katie was a Kravis House. Stephen Koelz has taught tri-varsity captain as a senior at Brooks School; literature and writing at the college level since at Bowdoin College, she contributed to two 2002, beginning as a graduate student at Brown NCAA National Field Hockey Championships University, where he earned his M.A. and and was named a Collegiate All-American Ph.D. Most recently, he served as an adjunct twice in the sport, as well as once in lacrosse. assistant professor of English at Providence

2 MIDDLESEX fall 2015 College. Stephen will assist with coaching soccer and New Appointments to Endowed Chairs basketball. Four years after her Mid- dlesex graduation, Caroline O’Donnell ’11 has returned to campus as a development and marketing associate in the alumni office. An enthusiastic fundraiser for College of the Holy Cross, Caroline has likewise been a steadfast class agent and class secretary for Middlesex. She looks forward to returning to the court as an assistant coach for girls’ varsity basketball. Independence Foundation Chair Brooke Chair for Ethics and Spirituality Supporting the School’s Thomas Kane Rebecca Smedley athletic program, Assistant Head of the Arts Division Director of Spiritual and Ethical Education Trainer Tory Sowizral has previously worked with Initially established in 1966 by a gift from The Brooke Chair was established in 2012 collegiate and high school the Independence Foundation, the income by John F. Brooke ’81, a Middlesex trustee since players, focusing on injury of this endowed fund provides for the salary 2008 and the father of Hadley S. Brooke ’12, prevention as well as assess- of a senior member of the faculty; a second and was supplemented by gifts from his par- ment and rehabilitation. chair for the same purpose was established ents, Mr. and Mrs. Peter W. Brooke, and his In the administrative in 1999 by distribution of principal from brothers, Samuel R. Brooke ’76 and Peter realm, Julie Miller brings the Independence Foundation. W. Brooke ’79, along with gifts from M. Holt more than two decades of Tom has led Middlesex’s Theatre Depart- Massey ’68 and Henry S. Woodbridge ’24, a experience in marketing and ment since 1998 and the Arts Division since trustee from 1944-47 and 1951-95. The income communications to her role 2012. With a B.S. in performance studies from provides for the salary of a member of the as an admissions office assis- Northwestern University, he also trained in faculty in ethics and spirituality. tant. With a comprehensive acting and directing at London’s British Now in her 20th year as an independent understanding of cultivation, American Drama Academy. After heading school educator, Rebecca comes to Middlesex fundraising, and technology, the theatre department at Storm King School, from Haverford School. During her career, Data Quality Manager Mike Tom earned an M.F.A. in acting at the Amer- she has taught English, history, philosophy, Voute has taken charge of ican Conservatory Theatre and then led the and religion, and has also served as a school the alumni office’s data and theatre program of Hamlin School before chaplain, dorm parent, and coach. A graduate report generation needs. moving to Middlesex. In addition to travel- of Agnes Irwin School, Wellesley College, and Thanks to the depth of ing biannually to London with Middlesex Princeton Theological Seminary, she is work- their personal and profes- students, he runs a summer study abroad ing toward an M.A. in English literature at sional experience in schools, program. “Tom has been an integral part of Middlebury College. Appreciative of Rebecca’s this year’s new faculty and the strategic thinking about the arts and arts experience, energy, and enthusiasm, Kathy staff have already seamlessly facilities,” Head of School Kathy Giles affirms, Giles adds, “She brings a wonderful sense assimilated into the Middle- “and in his own work with students, he reads of humor, her great personal warmth, and sex community, adding great not only what he thinks they can do but what a sharp mind to her work at Middlesex.” energy and ideas to their they need to do and where they can challenge respective classrooms and themselves to best learn and grow.” departments. M

MIDDLESEX fall 2015 3 360° Life on the Circle

serves on the Board of Directors of Combined Jewish Philanthropies of Boston, where she leads its grant-making activity; on the Cam- paign Cabinet of the Brigham and Women’s Hospital; and on the Leadership Council of the Kraft Community Health Centers program of Partners Healthcare. She has served in leadership roles on several other nonprofit boards in education, the arts, and health and human services. Judy and her husband Steve have three children: Alli ’10, Tommy ’17, and Laura ’17.

Will Danoff has worked for Fidelity Invest- ments since 1986 and has managed the Fidelity Contrafund for 25 years. He has been a board member of the Meadowbrook School of Weston since 2006, serving on its investment committee. Will graduated from Harvard College and earned his M.B.A. at the University of Penn- sylvania’s Wharton School. He and his wife Ami have three children, two of whom are current On a tour of the School’s old students: Amelia ’17 and Andrew ’19. Their steam plant (site of the future Board Welcomes Middlesex family ties also include Warren Music and Campus Center), the Middlesex Board of Trustees New Members Perkins ’74, who is married to Will’s sister, assembled in the empty boiler Nancy. room, which will become a As new Board President Stephen Lari ’90 takes 150-seat performance hall. on broader responsibilities, the ongoing success Paul Parisi joins the Board on a pro-tem of Mx2: The Campaign for Middlesex will con- basis as president of the Middlesex Parents’ tinue to require plenty of decision-making at Committee. Established in the printing and the Board level. With Landry House and the bookbinding business, he is the president of Music and Campus Center getting underway, HF Group, which serves many of the nation’s matters of planning, design, sustainability, and publishers, universities, museums, and corpor- construction have naturally been the focus of ations. Known for its innovation in applying recent trustee meetings. Contributing their pro- new technologies, the company offers every- fessional expertise—and their in-depth knowl- thing from binding to digitization, as well edge of the School as current parents—to these as conservation and print on demand book and other projects, three new members joined services. In addition, Paul is the president of the Middlesex Board this fall. Acme Bookbinding and the managing partner of ABLE Ventures, LLC, as well as the owner Judy Kaye knows the work of the Board well, of Harcourt Bindery. He serves on a number having twice served on a pro-tem basis as the of industry-related associations and on The president of the Middlesex Parents’ Committee. Fenn School Board of Visitors. Previously, he A Harvard graduate with a J.D. from the Uni- was a trustee and then president of the Nashoba versity of Chicago Law School, Judy gave up Brooks School’s Board. A Harvard graduate, the practice of securities law for a second career Paul and his wife Maggie have four children: in philanthropy and not-for-profit service. She Justine ’09, Grant ’11, Chase ’14, and Reid ’17. M

4 MIDDLESEX fall 2015 MIDDLESEX fall 2015 “From what we get, we can make a living; what we give, however, makes a life.” Arthur Ashe Community Service Day September 21, 2015

Capping off a productive Wellness Week this year, the School’s annual Community Service Day gave Middlesex freshmen and juniors a chance to head off campus together and support the surrounding community; meanwhile, sophomores—new and returning— bonded on their class trip, and seniors tack- led their college applications. Appropriately, since the summer All- School Reading assignment was The Good Food Revolution, many students worked on farms, harvesting crops, prepping fields, and picking apples. Others cleared trails, helped a nonprofit pack for a move, and performed a cappella songs for nursing home residents. For 22 years, this September event has introduced students to the benefits of volun- teering and encouraged them to continue throughout the year, whether on a weekly Clockwise from above: Working in the gardens basis at the Open Table food pantry and of Mill City Grows; making the most of bubble Walden House Health Care, or on an occa- wrap to prepare Habitat for Humanity for a sional basis during special service events, move; sorting and bagging apples at Commu- such as blood drives or fundraisers for nity Harvest; boxing up supplies in the Habitat for Humanity warehouse. worthy causes. M

MIDDLESEX ffaall 2015 5 360° Life on the Circle

drew upon his agricultural skills to become an urban farmer, one committed to growing fresh, affordable food for people who typi- cally lack access to local produce and markets in their city neighborhoods. He is now the CEO of Growing Power, a nonprofit he helped to found in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, that is dedicated to developing and teaching sustainable food production.

Bigger Is Not Better Starting with the premise that “food is the most important thing in our lives,” Mr. Allen told Middlesex students, “We have to change our food system, and your generation will do that.” As he pointed out, just about all jobs are connected to food—from farming to transportation to business to healthcare— but America’s current, large-scale production French teacher Carrie model is not sustainable and does not pro- Bolster impressed Will Allen You Are What vide the same quality of food to all people with the state of the well- of all economic classes. “Everybody has the managed Middlesex garden, You . . . Grow which she has ably supervised Will Allen’s “Good Food right to good food and should get the same and supported for the past food, not different qualities for the poor four years. Revolution” or the rich,” he said. “We need everyone at the table,” Mr. It is fairly unusual to be able to meet the Allen stressed. “We don’t have enough farm- author and protagonist of any given All- ers, and we need to figure out how to feed School Reading assignment. And when that growing cities.” Noting that U.S. rates of individual is as inspiring—and yet, pragmatic obesity and diabetes are at an all-time high, and unassuming—as Will Allen, whose jour- he advocated, “We need old-time farming ney is related in The Good Food Revolution, and new technologies to cut production it is a rare treat indeed. In the midst of a com- costs; we’ve proved it can be done.” In fact, prehensive “Wellness Week” that centered within its five greenhouses in urban Milwau- on his remarkable story, Middlesex was kee, Growing Power has developed less expen- fortunate to host Mr. Allen on September 24, sive, sustainable methods of composting rich 2015, and to hear his thoughts on the state soil, growing organic greens, and even farm- of American agriculture and health. ing fish. His impressive results certainly merited a MacArthur Foundation “genius” Reclaiming Roots grant, which Mr. Allen received in 2008. The son of sharecroppers in South Carolina who fled north in “The Great Migration” of Find Your Passion the 1930s, Mr. Allen nonetheless learned Mr. Allen offered students a wealth of good early on from his parents how to till the land advice throughout his talk, urging them to and grow delicious, nutritious food. After scrutinize what they put in their bodies and successful careers as a professional basketball to think about how to become part of the player in Belgium and then in sales and man- solution to America’s food production prob- agement for two Fortune 500 companies, he lem. He also encouraged them to pursue

6 MIDDLESEX fall 2015 360° Life on the Circle

their passions, just as he did in becoming an urban farmer. Climate Change—Closer to Home “This is what I enjoy doing; it’s not a job,” he said. “If you’re passionate about something, you’ll keep going through hardships.” After all, he continued, “Are we going to change the food industry overnight? No. It is going to be there.” Instead, he aims to provide people with fresh, affordable alternatives. Rather than expend energy fighting the Professor Primack noted that Thoreau’s existing industry, Mr. Allen journals are only lacking data about the insect chooses to work on new world—information that would have been valuable because butterflies and bees are especially approaches that can be sensitive to changes in temperature. scaled up to feed more people. “I’m always looking for ways to improve the Concord, climate change, and Earth Week peratures, he learned that Henry David Tho- system,” he said. For his car- at Middlesex all came together on April 21, reau had kept detailed journals documenting ing, committed efforts, he 2015, when Richard Primack, professor of the flowering of plants and the arrival times received a standing ovation. biology at Boston University, shared his of birds in Concord from 1851 to 1858. Deci- current research with the School. Professor phering Thoreau’s handwriting and terminol- Working Toward Primack is investigating the impact of climate ogy “took years,” but Professor Primack called Wellness change in Massachusetts, Japan, and South the records “a goldmine for scientists.” Thanks to the initiative and Korea. Perhaps surprisingly, his main geo- organization of Health Cen- graphical focus in Massachusetts is Concord, Earlier Birds and Blooms ter Director Meg McLaugh- due to the availability of extensive phenologi- For the last 13 years, the Middlesex campus lin and Head Athletic Trainer cal records kept by Henry David Thoreau has been one of Professor Primack’s fre- Laura Darby McNally ’80, and later naturalists. quently visited field sites. On average, plants Wellness Week highlighted are flowering about four days earlier than in many factors that support a Seeking Ecological Evidence the 1850s, and 27% of Concord’s wildflowers healthy life, from getting In 2002, while reviewing the latest edition are no longer present. Birds are arriving a enough rest on Sunday’s of a textbook he had worked on, Professor couple of days earlier, too – a trend that bears Sleep Challenge to “unplug- Primack realized that some of the “theoretical” watching. ging” from personal devices examples of global climate change had become “If the warming trend continues,” Profes- on Monday to sharing jokes realities, such as the shrinking polar ice caps. sor Primack predicted, “Massachusetts’ cli- on Tuesday. On Saturday, Concurrently, he wondered why there were mate could be more like North Carolina by after Harvard Professor no illustrative examples in the book from the the end of this century.” While many people Richard Weissbourd’s well- Eastern U.S., particularly the Boston area. are not convinced that any action needs to be received presentation about After all, over the past 160 years of recorded taken now, he imagines that Thoreau would healthy relationships in ado- temperatures for March and April, Boston have considered climate change an important lescence, students and faculty has warmed 2°C (4°F), while the rest of the cause. “It is important that you get involved,” wrapped up this informative country has warmed an average of 1.5°C. Professor Primack stressed. “This is an issue week with a workshop, choos- Searching for old records that might help of your time.” M ing from 26 different topics.M shed light on any effects of these warmer tem-

MIDDLESEX fall 2015 7 360° Life on the Circle

was amazing to talk with them about their lives and culture; you see how things can be so different with not much distance between places.” Kiran was equally enthusiastic about the community service projects that the Middlesex contingent completed, attesting, “We got a lot done; we had a good group and people worked hard.” Within a few days’ time, they built a new storeroom from the foundation up and transformed a plot of weeds into a garden with neat rows of plantings. Sidelined with a minor injury as the service projects began, Rochelle Greenidge ’16 instead enjoyed teaching English classes at a local elementary school. “They were eager to learn,” she says of her students, “and they just wanted to talk to someone in English.” On leaving La Lucha, the travelers went hiking, zip-lining, and surfing before returning to the States, where Rochelle has yet to find the American equivalent of Costa Rica’s DJ Williams ’16 and Sonia organic, freshly brewed coffee. Tremblay ’16 stand before International the organic garden that they Middlesex United helped create on an abandoned, Immersion overgrown plot of land in Undertaking a similar journey about every La Lucha. Two Middlesex trips bracketed the summer four years, Boys’ Varsity Soccer Coach Ken of 2015. While students of Spanish headed Risley and Assistant Dean of Students Dan west to Central America in mid-June for a Sheff traveled to England with 27 Middlesex venture in culture and community service, players on August 22 for an eventful week boys’ soccer athletes flew east to England of absorbing all things “football” before the in late August to experience British football summer concluded. fervor firsthand. In addition to taking in two premier league games and touring Wembley Stadium, Befriending Los Ticos the boys trained twice—once with English Arriving in San José on June 13, Spanish Football Association coaches at St. George’s Department Head Eduardo Fagundo and lan- Park, the new national training facility, and guage teacher Carolina Aldana accompanied then with a Manchester City Football Academy 20 Middlesex students during a nine-day coach. They also managed to fit in two scrim- stay in Costa Rica. As tourists for the first two mages against local youth clubs, as well as a days, the group visited a farm and learned few sightseeing excursions, including a about coffee production, and then went river Thames River tour and a visit to Stratford. rafting in the Pacuare River before meeting Returning on August 30, the group gained up with their host families in La Lucha. not only a deeper appreciation for the global For Kiran Tremblay ’18, the homestay nature of soccer but also a more personal con- portion of the trip was the best. “My family nection to the game and each other through welcomed and fed and housed us, and they their shared experience—a great way to start were very kind and helpful,” he reflects. “It the 2015 soccer season. M

8 MIDDLESEX fall 2015 MIDDLESEX fall 2015 Ragtime May 1–2, 2015

Music by Stephen Flaherty Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens Book by Terrence McNally Directed by Tom Kane Technical Design & Direction by Ryan DuBray Choreography by Barb Cadell Costume Design by Kim Brown Photography by Robert D. Perachio

Based on E. L. Doctorow’s novel, Ragtime was an impressive production by any measure, requiring the talents of 50 actors, a 13-piece band, and 35 crew members to master a lively score, innumerable costume changes, and a prop the size of a vintage Model T. Though set in New York in the early 20th century, the intertwining stories of three different communities—wealthy Protestants in New Rochelle, African Americans in Harlem, and Latvian immigrants on the Lower East Side —nonetheless touched on timely issues of power and justice, ambition and sacrifice, intolerance and acceptance. M

MIDDLESEX ffaall 2015 9 Middlesex People

The Future Undefined

The Anvil, as well as an accomplished athlete who was inducted into the Middlesex Athletic Hall of Fame just two weeks before the graduation ceremony (see page 23). At Harvard, Eric played football and wrote a humor column for The Crimson. Graduating with honors in 2008, he returned to Middlesex a few years later for a two-year stint on the faculty. During that time, he officially became a published author with That Book About Harvard: Surviving the World’s Most Famous University, One Embarrassment at a Time. Moving on to pursue his writing career, Eric recently completed a master’s degree in creative writing at Columbia University and is now working on two books, also freelancing for The New York Times and several national magazines. Relating several funny, self-deprecating anecdotes about his experiences at Middlesex and Harvard, Eric reflected that he had habit- ually defined himself as a football player— until a career-ending injury forced him to Commencement Speaker For many in the class of 2015, their graduation explore other latent talents, like writing for Eric Kester ’04 speaker was not just the day’s formally invited his schools’ newspapers. “That activity, to my guest. Four years earlier, he was their Freshman great surprise, led me to other writing oppor- English teacher or perhaps one of their base- tunities,” Eric said, “which led after college ball coaches. to a literary career path, which, in turn, led In turn, from the humorous perspective of me to one of the greatest joys and honors Eric Kester ’04, it was “an honor to stand before of my life: teaching you guys.” you today, as we all gather to wonder how I In the uncertain days ahead in college, ended up as the graduation speaker.” Describ- Eric encouraged the seniors to resist narrowly ing himself as “old enough to be unrelatable, defining themselves. “Being undefined doesn’t yet just young enough to have accrued no actual mean being a jack-of-all-trades, master of none,” wisdom,” he assured his former students, “It’s he said. “It means putting your entire heart okay: just like four years ago, when you were into your passion—but not your entire worth.” freshmen, and I was a rookie teacher, we’ll At Middlesex, the seniors have become get through this together.” “master tightrope walkers” who nonetheless As a fellow alumnus, Eric was eminently have “a permanent safety net in your own qualified to discuss his chosen topic, “the hearts, and its twine is made of the people near future in college and the virtue of being sitting around you this morning.” This, he con- undefined.” In his own student days, he was cluded, “is the gift of Middlesex to take with a humor columnist and managing editor of you into your beautiful, undefined future.”M

10 MIDDLESEX fall 2015 A Model for 2015 Distinguished Alumnus The Future Undefined Mindfulness STeP UP Founder Ned Seligman ’65 A t Middlesex, mindfulness is now in its seventh year as an Established in 1993, the Henry Cabot Lodge attacked multiple organs and his extremities, integrated program that is avail- ’20 Distinguished Alumni Award is presented requiring the amputation of both legs below able to all members of the school community. Recognized as a annually by the Middlesex Alumni Association the knees and most of his fingertips. Amaz- successful model for other inde- to a graduate whose life and career have ingly, a year later, Ned was back at his post pendent schools interested in made a significant and lasting contribution in São Tomé e Príncipe, where he continues developing similar programs of to society, bringing great credit to the School. his good work today. Never considering their own, Middlesex was invited On May 9, 2015, during Alumni Weekend, himself as “distinguished,” he attributes to give a workshop on “Mindful- ness in Boarding School” in Ned Seligman ’65 was honored as this year’s his accomplishments to commitment, hard conjunction with the annual recipient of the Lodge Award. work, and—especially—passion, noting, December meeting in Boston After graduating from Middlesex, Ned “It is passion that pushes you to endeavor of The Association of Boarding went on to Yale, receiving a B.A. in history and achieve.” Schools. On hand for the presen- in 1969. He then joined the Peace Corps and For his lifelong, unwavering dedication tation was Doug Worthen ’96, became dedicated to helping rural communi- to improving the lives of others, the Middle- Middlesex’s own director of ties throughout Africa. For nine years, Ned sex Alumni Association proudly named Ned mindfulness programs, along lived and worked in Upper Volta, now known Seligman ’65 the 2015 recipient of the Henry with Head of School Kathy Giles, Dean of Students Carmen as Burkina Faso, and subsequently spent time Cabot Lodge ’20 Distinguished Alumni Beaton, and Dean of Academic in Cameroon, Somalia, and Mauritania with Award. M Affairs Karlyn McNall. The organizations such as Catholic Relief Services, session explored how Middlesex the American Friends Service Committee, committed its resources—including scheduled time and human and the World Wildlife Fund. His work energy—to the development of focused particularly on hydraulic construc- a mindfulness program that is tion, such as dams, wells, dikes, canals, and rated by students as being highly reservoirs. In 1986, he completed a master’s effective and even life-changing for some. degree in public policy at Johns Hopkins Workshop participants University’s School of Advanced Inter- learned how mindfulness prac- national Studies. tices support the health and On a Peace Corps mission in 1993, well-being of students and the Ned traveled for the first time to São Tomé school community as a whole. Given the demand for Doug’s e Príncipe, a small country located 200 miles time and expertise, plans are off the coast of Gabon. Following another underway for a Middlesex assignment in Guinea-Bissau, he returned Mindfulness Center that would to São Tomé in 1998 and started STeP UP, an continue to help other schools to integrate mindfulness- NGO that works with grassroots organizations based practices into their to identify problems, write grant proposals, communities. M and secure funding for community improve- ment projects. Finding ways to address issues related to education, health, income-generation, and agricultural training is the central focus of STeP UP’s work. In 2004, during his annual visit to the Distinguished Alumnus Ned Seligman ’65 was U.S., Ned became ill and was rushed to the deservedly presented with the 2015 Lodge Award hospital, where he fell into a coma and was by Middlesex Alumni Association President Hunter diagnosed with MRSA. The infection Moorman ’60 (on left).

MIDDLESEX fall 2015 11 Middlesex People

Artful Science

wryly observed, reflecting on the overarching lessons she absorbed from several key teachers. In Paul Roeder’s math classes, she gained confidence in her mathematical abilities; in Doc Pittelli’s lab, she realized that physics could involve fun and laughter; and, thanks to Malcolm Russell and John Price, she acquired an abiding passion for art and literature. “I’m still figuring out what I know and what I love, but it’s always been a little bit of art and science,” she said. Referencing a favorite, paradoxical statement attributed to Yogi Berra—“If you come to a fork in the road, take it”—Kara encouraged Middlesex students not to limit their choices in life. “Go in both directions,” she advised.

Interdisciplinary Endeavors Kara explored several subjects at Stanford Continuing to be a student- Thanks to the generosity of a current parent, before focusing on a B.S. in industrial engi- athlete at Stanford, Kara the Middlesex Speaker Series in Math and neering. She then stayed on at the university Johnson ’91 eventually captained the women’s crew there and Science officially began on May 12, 2015, to earn an M.S. in material science “because discovered a passion for with a guest who was fondly remembered I felt it was beautiful,” as she said. After a industrial engineering and by several longtime faculty members. Kara two-year stint with Arthur D. Little, Kara material science. Johnson ’91 returned to campus to talk about completed a Ph.D. in materials and design her career in material design and engineering at Cambridge University. —work that has creatively united her seem- On returning to San Francisco, Kara ingly disparate interests in science and art. joined IDEO, a “broad and conceptual” Her inaugural talk set the tone for the design company where her passions for art School’s new lecture series, which has been and science could merge. As the company’s established to bring inspiring experts in the first material scientist, she worked on making fields of physics, chemistry, mathematics, or products “better and more appealing in feel engineering to campus to share their profes- and quality,” tinkering with everything from sional experience with Middlesex students. colorful, flexible eyeglasses and chairs adapted for laptops to kitchen utensils, credit cards, Middlesex Influences and mattresses. Along the way, she co-wrote Having grown up in a family of MIT-educated two books about the process and practices of engineers, Kara noted that she was also strongly designers: I Miss My Pencil (with Martin Bone) influenced by her mother’s love of language and Materials and Design (with Mike Ashby). and the natural world, leading her to feel that she “wanted to do everything” and not special- New Directions ize. “I feel like I learned to love learning at At the time of her visit, Kara had recently left Middlesex and forgot everything else!” she IDEO after 15 years and moved to a start-up,

12 MIDDLESEX fall 2015 where she was helping to create “a better light switch.” An Alumnae Milestone “This is my journey,” she summed up, “and I still have a future I haven’t gotten to yet.” In fact, she has begun In the fall of 1974, the first female students their promise. Over the course of this year, pursuing a new idea for a arrived on the Middlesex campus, ready to the School will be recognizing the remarkable series of children’s books, make their mark. Next May, these pioneer evolution of coeducational Middlesex with writing stories about charac- women—and their entire class of 1976— a series of events—including gatherings in ters that are made of different will celebrate their 40th reunion at the Boston, New York, and San Francisco—that materials. 2016 Alumni Weekend. will culminate with a special Coeducation Addressing questions Though they were small in number, those Panel during Alumni Weekend. after her talk, Kara high- first girls did not take long to become estab- As part of the celebration, the School lighted the need to be open- lished. Indeed, at the end of that initial year, is asking alumni, parents, and friends to minded in her profession. Christina Fagan ’76 was elected the first female nominate women who have graduated from “I’ve learned that if you are school president, and girls had proven them- Middlesex and who continue to live their the only person in the room selves to be key contributors in their class- promise every day. Perhaps these alumnae who thinks you are right, rooms, on the athletic fields, and in the arts. have taken the road less traveled, or perhaps you are probably wrong,” Much has changed since those early years they have become influential in a professional she grinned. Collaboration of coeducation. This fall, Kathleen Carroll field, whether in business, education, medicine, is similarly necessary, she Giles began her thirteenth year at Middlesex research, public service, or the arts. Nomi- added, as a successful prod- as the second woman to serve as head of nations may be submitted until January 20, uct requires the input of school. Women in other lead administrative 2016, and can be sent to Director of Alumni people with diverse talents positions include Dean of Faculty Alex Relations John Morrissey at jmorrissey@ and views. Banay and Dean of Students Carmen Beaton. mxschool.edu or 978-371-6523. “I think a lot about how Among the current student population, Ultimately, during Alumni Weekend— things are made and what girls comprise half of the total enrollment. on May 21, 2016, at 2:30 p.m.—graduates and they are made of,” she stated. In short, today’s Middlesex is a school their guests will have a chance to commemo- “It helps me figure out how that those first young women helped to create: rate and reflect on Middlesex’s transformation to make better light switches a place where all students, regardless of gender, into a premier, coeducational school. M —and inspires me to make have the resources and opportunities to find things better as I go through the world.” For students in the audience who might Middlesex’s first not have a defined vision of coeducational graduating class their own career yet, Kara’s included, from inventive, multifaceted work left to right: clearly demonstrated that Anne Makepeace there are myriad possibilities ’76, [in back, Middlesex dorm M and paths to be discovered. parent Tinny Houghtlin], Noni Pratt ’76, Mary Frances Allen ’76, Lisa Beach ’76, Patience Gillies Laws ’76, and Sarah O’Neill ’76.

MIDDLESEX fall 2015 13 Team Highlights For more sports news visit http://athletics.mxschool.edu

Boys’ Lacrosse Baseball Coming around to score one of his five goals against Co-captain Justin White ’15 receives a pitch against Rivers. An All-League Honorable St. Paul’s last April, Co-captain James Burr ’15 was Mention and winner of Middlesex’s W.P. Raymond Baseball Bowl (as the team’s top second in overall points in the ISL by the season’s offensive performer), Justin is now a freshman at Bates College. end—and he was named an All-American.

Golf Now playing for Columbia University, Amy Ding ’15 captained the Middlesex golf team for two years and held the number one spot on its ladder for three years.

Boys’ Tennis Alex Muresianu ’17 was one of many leaders who helped propel the varsity team through its highly competitive ISL schedule. He will serve as team captain next year.

Girls’ Lacrosse A four-year varsity player and an All-League standout, Captain Claire Miller ’15 takes control of the ball. Claire added much to the squad as the leading scorer, and she is now the holder of the school record in assists.

14 MIDDLESEX fall 2015 Going the Distance

Individually and collectively, Middlesex athletes excelled this season, as Girls’ Varsity Track landed a New England Championship and the lacrosse program produced another All-American. The winning 4x400-meter relay team included (from the left) Megan Seymour ’16, Co-captain Mahal Alvarez-Backus ’15, Emily Arnold ’16, and Co-captain Toni Mattessich ’15. Megan and Emily will lead the 2016 team as co-captains.

Co-captain Mahal Alvarez-Backus ’15 gives her all at the end of the 1500-meter race.

A First for Girls’ Track Girls’ Varsity Track won its first-ever New England Championship on May 16, 2015, topping the 20 teams competing at Connecticut’s Hyde School. Tied with Kingswood-Oxford heading into the final Gathered around their coach, Desiree Sheff, are the graduating 4x400-meter relay, Middlesex’s team of Emily Arnold ’16, Co-captain members of the Varsity Track team. From left to right: Co-captain Toni Mattessich ’15, Megan Seymour ’16, and Co-captain Mahal Steve Zawada, Co-captain Toni Mattessich, Alex Schoen, Co-captain Alvarez-Backus ’15 won the race and clinched the championship. Mahal Alvarez-Backus, Coach Sheff, Miles Petrie, Co-captain Lucas The team effort was led by Mahal, who won the 1500-meters Estrada, and Austin Corona. and finished third in the 800-meter race, followed by Eliza Jevon ’17 in fourth. Megan won the 300-meter intermediate hurdles, while Emily took second in the long jump and fifth in the 100-meters. All-American James Burr ’15 The 4x100-meter relay of Rochelle Greenidge ’16, Nina Thomas ’18, James Burr ’15 had already been named an All-League standout and Toni, and Megan impressively finished third. Toni placed third in the a Boston Lax All-Star as a junior. Once again named All-League as a javelin, while Sonia Tremblay ’16 finished fifth in the 3000-meters. senior co-captain, James topped his Middlesex career with the title Ari Odom ’17 added points by finishing sixth in the discus, and Alex of All-American. Schoen ’15 ran a solid 1500-meter race. He came on strong in the last two years, scoring 34 goals and 33 Meanwhile, Boys’ Varsity Track finished third among 21 scoring assists as a junior, and 37 goals and 28 assists as a senior, for a career teams. Top performers included distance standout Viraj Deokar ’16, total of 156 points. “James was the quarterback of our offense,” says who won both the 1500-meter and 3000-meter races, and Co-cap- Coach Ned Herter ’73, who received a special honor of his own when tain Steve Zawada ’15, who set a new school record with his winning he was inducted into the Eastern Massachusetts Lacrosse Hall of Fame shot put—also taking second in the javelin. Third-place finishes were on July 11. Characteristically preferring to focus on his players, Ned secured by Co-captain Lucas Estrada ’15 in the 1500-meters and by continues, “James has exceptional vision of the field, can dodge to Miles Petrie ’15 in the 3000-meter race, with both adding valuable the cage, and get his hands free for shots or feeds.” Now a Boston points to the team total. University freshman, James is on the Terriers’ roster.

MIDDLESEMIDDLESEXX faFAllLL 2015 15 EY D H RE T A T M A

E H • • mthe campaignX2 D W for middlesex

• • B E O O D URS TO Mx2: Meeting Goals, Moving Forward

In the year since the public launch of Mx2: The Campaign for Middlesex, substantial gifts and pledges from alumni, parents, and friends have raised the total committed funds to more than $170 million—a landmark sum for the School that is already making a difference to its people, places, and programs.

Set into the slope between Higginson House and the Head of School’s residence, Landry House is scheduled to be ready for occupancy in September 2016. 16 MIDDLESEX fall 2015 isible signs of the ongoing success of Mx2 are everywhere on the Middlesex campus, from the grace- ful new entrances on LeBaron Briggs House and Clay House to Vthe bright Howe Common Room that completes the western face of Robert Winsor House. On the northeast end of the grounds, a major transformation is underway as the School’s defunct steam plant—now surrounded by colorful, pic- torial scrims—is being sustainably repurposed as the much-needed Music and Campus Center. On the southern end, near Higginson House, similar scrims encircle the site of a new dorm, responded enthusiastically to Victor’s Residen- A potential plan for which will bolster residential life with additional tial Life Challenge, which offered a 1:1 match a new visual arts gallery, still in the design phase. faculty apartments and student rooms. These of donations up to $7.5 million in order to build and many other improvements, some tangible a new dorm and make other residential improve- and some subtle, have been made possible by ments. The steady flow of contributions led to Middlesex’s generous supporters, people who the Howe Common Room becoming part of believe in the School’s mission and are turning the overhaul of RW—and helped establish the campaign aspirations into real achievements. Beaton Common Room within Clay—at last providing these dorms with places to meet, Residential Life Goals Reached relax, or study. This past April, the challenge’s In strategic plans dating back to The Campaign successful culmination resulted in the summer of a Century, it has long been the intent to reno- renovation of Clay and the site preparation for vate the School’s older dormitories. In addition the new dorm: Landry House, named for the to updating the buildings’ utilities and systems, late C. Kevin Landry ’62, longtime Board other objectives included trying to add faculty treasurer and generous benefactor. apartments; increasing the number of student beds where possible to shift the enrolled percen- Campus Homes Created tage of boarders toward 75 percent; and creating In fact, Kevin’s own fundraising initiative—the common rooms in dorms that lacked any such Landry Family Challenge, a collaborative effort gathering space. The success of the last campaign with his wife Barrie and daughters Kim Gwinn- made considerable progress toward these aims, Landry ’89 and Jen Landry Le ’94—also deserves resulting in the refurbishing of Bryant-Paine, credit for the attainment of the campaign’s Higginson, and Hallowell Houses, and in the residential life goals. When the School received construction of the Oates Lane faculty homes. a $500,000 grant from the Mary Mae Founda- Now, thanks in large part to the leadership tion in 2012 to build faculty housing, it soon of the Mx2 Honorary Co-chairs—Board Vice became apparent that the project’s construction Presidents Bob and Anne Bass (parents of Chris costs would exceed that amount. Because of ’93) and former Trustee Victor Atkins ’63 and the Landry Challenge, which matched parents’ his wife Victoria—all of the campaign’s resi- gifts to any of the School’s strategic objectives, dential life goals have been realized. sufficient funds were raised to build five A significant gift from the Basses accom- efficient, new faculty homes across from plished the summer 2014 renovation of LeBaron Middlesex’s main gate. Briggs House (LB) and Robert Winsor House Landry House will include three more (RW)—two major projects that clearly inspired faculty apartments, too, achieving another long- further developments. Parents and alumni term priority of adding seven faculty homes

MIDDLESEX fall 2015 17 months on the slope next to Higginson. “By September 2016,” confirms Head of School Kathy Giles, “we will have renovated three dormitories and built a new house. We have to thank all of the people involved—Victor and the Basses and the Landrys and many others— and use the momentum they have generated to kick off the last part of Mx2.”

Opportunities Open in the Arts “We have made tremendous progress,” concurs Advancement Director George Noble. “Next on the horizon are music and theatre.” Here again, Trustees Bob and Anne Bass have stepped up to encourage others with their Bass Family Challenge to Benefit the Arts, a $5 million effort which matches half of any contribution made toward the School’s arts initiatives. Now nearing completion, the challenge is bringing the School closer to providing arts facilities that are worthy of the creativity and talent at Middlesex. One part of the plan that is already underway is the Music and Campus Center, an inge- nious idea that came about when the School converted its centralized heating plant from oil to natural gas, making the sizeable boiler room obsolete. That single, sustainability-driven change in 2012 has had cascading benefits. Not only has it reduced Middlesex’s carbon footprint by more than 20 percent and lowered its overall fuel costs, but it has also led to the envisioning of a wonderful home for music—a first for the campus. A lead gift from an alumna, and several sub- (Top) Carmen and Jim by 2017. This would likely please Kevin, as Jen sequent donations, allowed the transformation Beaton caught up with recalls that her father considered strong faculty to commence last winter. Once the little-used Tony Woods ’90 and his wife Cornelia during the support key in retaining good teachers. “It would Paine Barn had been converted into the new 2015 Alumni Weekend, have been important to him to have three more headquarters for Facilities and Operations, prepa- when the Woods made families right on campus,” she reflects. rations could begin in earnest for the repurpos- a reunion gift on behalf The dorm’s 36 beds will also bring the ing of the old steam plant. In keeping with the of the entire class of boarding population closer to becoming School’s ongoing sustainability directives, geo- 1990 to put the Beaton name on the new common 75 percent of total enrollment, progressing thermal wells were installed this past summer room in Clay House. toward that long-range benchmark. And, of to provide the heating and cooling system for the course, Landry House has been designed with building. With continued work and a bit more great communal spaces that would have been fundraising over the next year, the Music and particularly meaningful to Kevin. The Class of Campus Center will eventually include practice ’62 Common Room was given as a 50th reunion rooms and a piano studio, seminar and ensemble gift by his class, an especially close-knit group; spaces, music and academic classrooms, and and, the 1989 Commons area was a collective a 150-seat performance hall—with the latter 25th reunion gift from his daughter Kim’s fashioned from the empty boiler room. cohesive class. Drawn to the concept of the center’s dual With its foundation now poured and set, purpose, Beau and Jennifer Coash—parents of Landry House will take shape in the coming Cassie ’11 and Drew ’14—are funding a practice

18 MIDDLESEX fall 2015 room and an academic classroom. “Cassie never is a particular favorite of ours.” Given that fond sang before she came to Middlesex,” Jennifer connection and the shared enjoyment of perform- remembers, “but Dr. Wetzel made her into a ing skits as underclassmen, the Kreitlers decided singer, and she got a lot of joy out of that while that underwriting the theatre’s new greenroom at Middlesex, and she continued singing through- was the most appropriate way to give to Mx2. out college. The academic classroom applies to A dozen other contributions are currently Drew and all the other kids who might not do earmarked for features such as the theatre’s something musical. At Middlesex, students who expanded seating, which will allow the entire aren’t particularly musicians support those who student body and the faculty to fit comfortably are, so it’s nice that the building is not solely as an audience for performances, guest speakers, a space for music.” and all-school assemblies. A black box theatre, Moreover, Beau adds, “It’s such a neat space; dressing rooms, and classrooms—both for study- students who are in the building for classes might ing theatre and for learning the practice of mind- get inspiration from seeing another student who fulness—are among other elements within the is performing. At Middlesex, it’s OK to be who building that may still be named with specific you are—students can inspire each other in their donations and matched with remaining Bass own way, whether in arts, athletics, leadership, Family Challenge funds. or academics.” Campaign Checklist: Remaining Needs Spotlight on Theatre From the creation of the Mary Mae Village, the Donors have been similarly appreciative of Mid- conversion of the Paine Barn, the renovation of dlesex’s programs in the visual arts and theatre. RW, LB, and Clay, and the initial construction “The extended Middlesex community has really stages of both Landry House and the Music responded to the needs of the School in a way and Campus Center, it is evident that much has that has been so encouraging,” Director of been accomplished thus far through Mx2: The Development Heather Parker notes. “Support Campaign for Middlesex. With one major pillar from alumni, parents, and past parents has been of the campaign—residential life—now com- nothing short of humbling.” Through naming pletely financed, attention will focus on the opportunities or outright gifts, she says, they remaining priorities: the arts, financial aid, have provided much of the funding that will and faculty compensation. be necessary to relocate the visual arts to the In this final year of Mx2, the School will former science wing of Eliot Hall. Impressive seek to raise another $10 million to realize fully headway has also been made in fundraising for its comprehensive plans for music, visual arts, the extensive renovation of the Wood Theatre. and theatre. Another $7 million will be sought The Bass Family Challenge was instrumental for financial aid and $5 million for faculty com- in helping to secure the $3 million naming pensation, areas that benefited early in the cam- rights for the theatre’s new main stage and paign from two different Atkins Challenges and has augmented other gifts from alumni and that still require additional endowment in order families. As Middlesex past parent Tom Kreitler for Middlesex to continue to attract and support says of the Bass Challenge, “It’s a wonderful dynamic, talented students and faculty. way to give, knowing that it’s going to be an The numbers may seem ambitious, but those increased gift.” who have become part of the School, whether Although only his eldest son, Charlie ’08, through their own experience or that of their performed in Middlesex main stage productions children, know the lasting value of a challenging (perhaps most memorably as Jean Valjean in academic environment. In small classes led by the School’s production of Les Miserables) Tom’s exceptional teachers and filled with equally en- younger children—George ’10, Isabel ’13, and gaged peers, lifelong lessons and friendships are Will ’13—were all introduced to acting by Per- deeply established. “The sense of place and com- forming Arts Department Head Tom Kane dur- munity is really important at Middlesex,” says ing the beginning-level course called Elements Jennifer Coash, “and giving to the campaign is of Style in Theatre. “We love the faculty at one way to show our gratitude for being part Middlesex,” Tom Kreitler affirms, “but Tom Kane of this community.” M

MIDDLESEX fall 2015 19 Alumni Weekend Members of the class of 1990 returned in force to celebrate their 25th reunion—and perhaps also their new Middlesex Board President Stephen Lari. In front (from left to right) are: Pat West, Louisa Terry Garrido, Jason Nevader, Garth Shaneyfelt, Jamie Talbot, Corey Hajim, Jennifer Witherbee Marusiak, and Alex Iler. Standing in back are: Adji Gadson, Tara Shea, Nick Maynard, G Gooder, Jonathan Edwards, Alex Sachs, Stephen Lari, Tony Leness, Thompson Bellingrath, Michael Conathan, Tony Woods, Frank Townsend, Alan Bunce, Chris Simonds, John Viener, Julie Zagars, Julie Sweetland Sootin, Spencer Crandall, Andrew Summersby, and Kira Dale Pfisterer.

At a special ceremony in the Bancroft Courtyard, Louisa Terry Garrido ’90 paid tribute to her former advisor, retiring faculty member Jim Beaton, who was then made an honorary Whatever happened to the class of ’65? Its members member of Middlesex’s reported to the Head’s House for the 50th reunion class of 2015. dinner! First row, left to right: Paul Robbie, Bart Goldie, Ned Seligman, Steve Palmer, Michael Fairchild, Ben Brewster, and Jack Humphreville. Second row: Jim Saalfield, Jim Oates, Doug Sears, and Tim Fuller. Third row: Pete Lineberger, Bruce Davis, Bob Miness, Parker Wise, and Rick Smith. Back row: Gus Brown, Chris Crockett (behind Gus), Nick Acheson, John Three 1950 classmates – Nicholas Potter, John Morley, and Fred Mathers (behind Nick), Bob Truesdale, John Phillips, Stow—caught up with each other at the Old Guard Dinner. Nat Adam, Kirk Kirkpatrick, Dick Bodman, and Charlie Henderson.

20 MIDDLESEX faFAllLL 2015 MIDDLESEX Spring 2014 On May 8 and 9, nearly 600 Middlesex alumni and guests gathered to celebrate reunions. More than one record may have been set this year, as local resident Henry Thompson ’35 marked 80 years since his graduation, while Ned Selig- man ’65 traveled over 5500 miles from São Tomé e Príncipe to celebrate his 50th reunion and accept the Henry Cabot Lodge ’20 Distinguished Alumni Award. The festivities appropriately began on Friday with music, as cast members from the School’s production of Ragtime performed a sampling of the songs from the show. This entertainment was followed by the 50th reunion Gathered at the Old Guard Dinner on Friday night were Scott Conant ’63, dinner at the Head of School’s home and a well-attended Chris Peterson (widow of Iver Peterson ’60), David Smith ’62, and Dick Seamans ’63. “Old Guard” dinner in Ware Hall for those who graduated more than 50 years ago. One of the highlights of the latter event was a performance by the ever-popular a capella group known as Umfundisis. Meanwhile, other classes enjoyed receptions graciously hosted off-campus by local alumni. Saturday’s schedule started early with the annual Memorial Service in the Chapel. From there, attendees moved to the Alumni Assembly in the Wood Theatre, where details of the ongoing, successful capital campaign were presented by outgoing Board President Pete Olney ’66. Pete then introduced incoming Board President Stephen Lari ’90, who announced the impending groundbreaking of a new dorm, Landry House. Following the presentation of the Distinguished Alumni Award, four new members were inducted into the Middlesex Back for their fifth reunion were these 2010 classmates: Clarence Lam, Efe Athletic Hall of Fame. Kakpovbia, Katie Highland, Ryan Morgan, Matt Megan, and Kristin Gemma. Glorious afternoon weather provided a perfect back- drop for athletic competitions, the alumni art exhibit, and a reception in honor of retiring English teacher Jim Beaton. A surprise announcement revealed that the class Both belonging to of 1990 was naming the new common room in Clay classes ending in “5,” Chloe Ciccariello ’05 House in honor of Jim and his wife Carmen, a fitting and her grandfather, tribute to their 15-year tenure as Clay dorm parents. John Speed ’45, get In the evening, alumni headed to the reunion tent to enjoy their Middlesex for the weekend’s last hurrah: a traditional New England reunions together. clambake catered by Woodman’s of Essex. Dining, dancing, and catching up with classmates rekindled Middlesex memories and friendships that continue to last, long after graduation. Be sure to save the weekend of May 20–21, 2016, and make the trip to Concord to take part in next year’s Alumni Weekend events! M

MIDDLESEMIDDLESEXMIDDLESEX SXpring FfaALLll 201520142015 21 A lumni Weekend

The class of 2005 had an impressive turnout 10 years after graduation. In front (left to right) are: Christine Conwell, Kara Lightman, Nell Gluckman, Gustavo Nascimento, Amelia Glauber, Chloe Ciccariello, Tyler Gleysteen, Bessem Bate, Nick Moseley, Liz Wellen, Marisa Athas Beck, Hudson Bova, and Erin Roy Runyon. Standing in back are: Kevin Daigle, Kelly Alvarez, Daniel Tattersall, Elise Wulff, Rhoden Monrose, Tracy MacKenzie, Kate Domash, Kirsten Kester O’Donnell, Jackie Deysher Marchand, Matt Keller, William Wiseheart, Will Daly, Luke Marchand, Peter Smith, Gawain Patterson, and Sanjay Trehan.

Former Governor of New Mexico Bill Richardson ’66 talked with varsity baseball players during the stretch before afternoon practice. A star Little League pitcher even before he made the Middlesex varsity as an eighth grader, Bill is considered one of the best pitchers in the School’s history Potentially the fifth generation of her family to attend Middlesex, young and went on to play for Tufts University. Lilly Trumbull (’32) checked out Alumni Weekend with her parents, Allison and Rob Trumbull ’00.

Thanks to the extraordinary efforts of Adji Gadson ’90 (on right) every spring, an art show is ready for Alumni Weekend. This year, one Franklin Foster ’94 introduces one of his three sons to the idyllic of the artists Adji worked with was Rachel Perry Welty ’80 (on left), pleasures of the Circle. who exhibited several of her pieces in the Wood Theatre Gallery.

22 MIDDLESEX FfaAllLL 2015 A thletic Hall of Fame 2015 Inductees

Looking just as fit as their Middlesex portraits, this year's inductees included (from the left) Sam Vokey '81, Tori Scott '00, Mollie Mattuchio '04, and Eric Kester '04.

The Middlesex Athletic Hall of Fame Nominating Committee welcomes your nominations of classmates, teammates, and coaches. If you have someone you’d like to see considered for induction, please contact Director of Alumni Relations John Morrissey at [email protected].

N. Samuel Vokey ’81 Victoria E. Scott ’00 Eric A. Kester ’04 Mollie J. Mattuchio ’04

Sam earned 10 letters during his Earning three letters each in field Eric garnered 12 letters during Winning 11 letters at Middlesex, Middlesex career, including two hockey, ice hockey, and lacrosse his Middlesex career—with four including four in soccer, four in in football, four in wrestling, and while at Middlesex, Tori was apiece in football, ice hockey, and basketball, and three in lacrosse, four in crew. As captain of the named All-League in both field baseball—and was captain of all Mollie captained the varsity soccer wrestling team in his senior year, hockey (1999) and ice hockey three sports as a senior. Named and basketball teams as a senior. he won titles at the Graves-Kelsey (1998, 1999, and 2000). She All-League twice in football and Named All-League twice in soccer, and New England tournaments, scored 40 goals as a senior cap- baseball, he led the league in she capped her career with being becoming the first Middlesex tain in ice hockey and went on to touchdown receptions for two named All-State, All-Region, and wrestler to do so. Subsequently, play all three sports at Williams seasons. Eric received the Kelton League MVP in the sport—also he lettered in wrestling at College. There, she finished her Bowl, Class II Alumni Prize, and receiving the girls’ basketball bowl Bowdoin and won a Maine athletic career as the all-time the Ty Prince Bowl at Middlesex that winter. Mollie played four State Championship during leader in goals, assists, and before continuing on to play years of soccer at Brown, winning his college career. points in Williams’ field hockey football at Harvard. the Dobson-Kay Coaches Award history. for outstanding dedication and sportsmanship as a junior.

MIDDLESEXMIDDLESEX FfaALLll 20152015 23 A Fond Farewell to Jim Beaton

After 35 years at Middlesex—masterfully teaching English and astutely handling a number of other consuming roles—Jim Beaton has decided it is time to set his own schedule, enjoy his new grandsons, and sleep in later . . . especially on Saturdays.

hether you consult a former student or a long- getting kids to understand the big picture of what they’re time colleague, the verdict is the same: Jim reading, and what the essential issues are, in a very grace- Beaton is “extraordinary” in his involvement, ful way. He is good at listening to them, getting a good dis- knowledge, patience, and advice. cussion going, and then pulling back to see what the real, W “He just cared,” John Baylor ’84 succinctly says of his important points are. They would all emerge with a deeper former teacher, coach, and advisor. “Mr. Beaton had an understanding.” In passing Jim’s classroom, John would interest in your well-being.” routinely see a group of happy, engaged students “debating By chance, John’s first day of Freshman English in freely and energetically and learning a lot about life,” he 1980 was also Jim’s first day in his Middlesex classroom, recalls. “It was clear from a glance into the room.” as he had just joined the faculty after teaching at Wellesley That collaborative exchange was important to Jim, too. College for eight years. Notably, the description John gives As he said in his Baccalaureate address last May, his class- of that initial year is echoed by alumni throughout Jim’s room—“a luminous little corner of Eliot Hall”—had been tenure. “He has a terrific sense of humor,” John says. “the scene of some powerful experiences, not always about “We were laughing and learning and having fun, which the substance of what we studied but of the experience makes you more deeply engaged. He also involved every- of contemplating it together.” one in his classes. I remember there were four cool guys The same qualities that engendered thoughtful analy- who sat at the end of the table with their chairs tipped sis and productive discussion in his classroom led to Jim’s back—even they chose to be involved. Everyone was appointment to a succession of administrative posts. He held accountable and came prepared. You never wanted taught a bit less for a decade as he served as head of the to miss that class.” English department, the humanities division, and the Students’ appreciation of that dynamic experience academic council, also taking on the job of academic dean was apparent from the enduring popularity of Jim’s and then dean of faculty. “He was so measured and able electives—from Dickens and Irving to World War I to keep the scales balanced,” affirms John Hirsch. “Faculty Literature—and from the nicknames they gave his classes. kept coming to him for advice and counsel long after he John and his friends dubbed the Mark Twain elective “AP stopped being a dean.” Beatonology,” while Nancy Frost Bland ’86 fondly remem- In time, though, the classroom called him back. Jim bers “RoPo” and “AmPo” (English Romantic Poetry and returned to full-time teaching, lending John a hand in American Poetry, respectively). building the School’s Writing Program and taking on Having observed his teaching many times, English one last administrative role—a potentially thorny one— Department Head John Hirsch notes, “Jim is very good at as head of the School’s Discipline Committee.

24 MIDDLESEX fall 2015 Here again, Jim’s skills as an adept he encouraged his students to be mediator and eloquent writer made him courageous in their efforts.” ideal for the job, a position that could As in his classroom, Jim considered have made him quite unpopular. But the shared venture to be more impor- as John can attest, “Jim had discussion tant than victory. “It’s great to win, obvi- with the kids. He was forgiving but not ously,” he allows, “and to have that sense too forgiving; he could be hard on them, of being the team to beat. But the suc- but they didn’t feel he was after them.” cess of the season for me wasn’t about Dean of Faculty Alex Banay concurs, that. I’ve coached great and wonderful adding, “Jim is a master at reaching a kids and had terrific experiences that consensus that dignifies everyone’s do not show up in the wins and losses point of view. It is also extraordinary columns.” how his write-up of each case would Similarly, grades were not all that both report and educate.” mattered when it came to his advisees. Remarkably, Jim led the DC for Characterizing Jim’s approach as “per- 15 years, the same length of time that sonalized mentoring,” Max Brown ’11 he served as Head of Clay House, where relates, “He looked at each individual he earned a reputation for knowing the as a whole person and had a way of not residents and their activities exception- just addressing the immediate concerns ally well. “I tended to be a night worker,” but considering the consequences of he explains. “I was available when they any decision. Every interaction turned were just playing and ruminating. That directly to you and all the things that he gave me a connection with them that took the time to learn about you. He is made running the dorm easier.” an intensely caring personality, and that Jim’s 1985 move to Clay was a boon came through as an advisor.” in many respects, as Middlesex gained In the classroom and Clay, on the two future alumni, Andrew ’98 and trails and the DC (as school vice-presi- Emily ’01, and another favorite faculty dent), Max knew Jim in his many Mid- member: Jim’s wife Carmen, beloved in dlesex roles. “I remember always being commemorating Jim’s turn as advisor her own right as a dorm parent, Spanish so impressed—whether it was in a DC of The Anvil newspaper. Most recently, teacher, and dean of students. Having hearing or a pre-race strategy talk— Clay House gained the Beaton Common since established a career in boarding with the extent to which Mr. Beaton had Room thanks to a reunion gift from schools, Nancy reflects, “I learned from prepared and the extent of his knowl- Cornelia and Tony Woods ’90.] the Beatons that you can take people edge,” Max says. “I had no idea when he Though his days will be filled with into your life and share it with them. had the time to prepare! The effort was more reading, music, and travel, Jim I feel fortunate to have them as role extraordinary. He was so thoughtful; knows he will miss the all-encompassing models. They put so much heart into every word came out precisely.” life of boarding school. “It is rejuvenating their work with people, and it makes Former advisee Zoe Karafylakis to be in the company of so much energy an impact.” Sperling ’98 describes Jim as “incredibly and vitality and aspiration,” he reflects, Still another area where Jim’s influ- patient, gracious, and involved”—and “and to be in a world where you are ence has been significant is the cross- “brutally honest” when necessary. “He needed, where you can help kids every country program. An assistant coach would tell you when something needed single day, maybe just with a small for 22 years, he became the boys’ head to be realigned, whether academic or thing. It’s a world where your presence coach in 2002 and capped his career personal,” she says. “He had the ability matters.” with a perfect season last fall—a repeat to make you laugh in the midst of an Happily, as a new grandfather of the 2012 varsity’s amazing achieve- adverse situation, using humor in show- to Oliver and Patrick, Jim will remain ment. “The teams always reflected Jim’s ing how to cope with it.” [In gratitude needed and rejuvenated for years to come. personality: classy, witty, and tough,” to Jim and Carmen, the Karafylakis and In turn, these youngsters will undoubt- observes science teacher John Bishop, Barbee families established The Beaton edly come to appreciate his wisdom, an assistant coach for six years. “Whether Faculty Fund, while another family affection, humor, and influence just we were the dogs or the darlings of created the James F. Beaton Award for as much as it has been valued at the ISL, Jim always coached the same; Excellence in Student Publications, Middlesex. M

MIDDLESEX fall 2015 25

Graduation 2015

Alex Schoen ’15 stopped for a big, congratulatory hug from Dean of Students Carmen Beaton.

About to preside over his last graduation, Board President Pete Olney ’66 paused for a photo in the Terry Room with guest speaker Eric Kester ’04 and Head of School Kathy Giles. Having sat on the same benches as the seniors—albeit 49 years earlier—Pete reflected on their shared Middlesex David Fan ’15 and his family. legacy, which he traced to founder Frederick Winsor’s dream “of a school that was devoted not just to education but to integrity and service.” Borrow- ing a few phrases from the School hymn, Pete concluded, “I urge you to live ‘lives that speak’ and to do ‘deeds that beckon’ because ‘what they dreamed be yours to do.’ Your best days are ahead of you.”

26 MIDDLESEX FfaAllLL 2015

Electra Washburn ’15 and Jenny Welch ’15 waited patiently to receive their diplomas with credit. Choral officers led the crowd in singing the School’s hymn, “Rank by Rank.”

A noontime storm was in the forecast, but as soon as the seniors set out in their procession at 10:30 a.m. on May 31, 2015, a steady rain began to fall. Taking it in stride, Senior Class President Hamza Usman ’15, School Vice President Diana Uhrig ’15, and School President Connor Sloan ’15 continued across the Circle.

After the ceremony, Ben Caniff ’15 made his way down the line of faculty and staff.. Brad Winthrop ’15 and Zarena Jafry ’15 head to Eliot Hall.

MIDDLESEXMIDDLESEXMIDDLESEX F FfaAALLLLll 2014 20152015 2727 Graduation 2015

Kyle Finke ’15, Camden Blatchly ’15, and Matt Kafker ’15 were ready for the ceremony to begin.

Miles Petrie Appropriately clad in Bermuda shorts, Valedictorian ’15, Khanh Alex Rego ’15 (of Paget, Bermuda) was appreciative Dang ’15, of the shared experiences that had drawn a group of and Austin distinct individuals together and bonded them as the Corona ’15. class of 2015. Although their time on campus had come to an end, he proposed, “Let’s sustain these relationships and not think of leaving as a loss.”

Amy Ding ’15 was eminently prepared for the inclement weather.

Newly minted alumni: Ali Corkran, Tim Wing, Abigail Sokolsky, Mikaela Salvesen- Quinn, Kaavya Ashok, and Rose-Marie Fuchs.

28 MIDDLESEX FfaALLll 2015 In Memoriam

Henderson ’66, Rosalie Godfrey, Loring W. Coleman ’38 Charles Henderson, Jr. ’40 and John Henderson; ten grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; Charles Henderson, Jr. died his sister, Lucy Wallenborn; and peacefully at his home in York, many nephews and nieces. Loring Wilkins Coleman, ME, on April 19, 2015. who taught art at Middle- Born in Lynchburg, VA, on George Stevens ’42 sex from 1948 to 1974, August 22, 1923, he was the son died peacefully in his of Charles and Rosalie Florance Henderson of Charlottesville, George Stevens died of pneumonia sleep on July 7, 2015. where his father was a professor on July 1, 2015, at his home in Born on April 27, 1918, and, later, dean of the engineering Gloucester, MA. Loring grew up in Chicago, school at the University of Virginia. George was born in Boston IL, and attended the After attending Middlesex, Charlie on February 13, 1924, and raised in graduated summa cum laude Lowell, MA, and North Andover, Chicago Latin School from Davidson College, later MA. He was a direct descendant before moving on to earning his master’s degree and of Major General Benjamin F. Fessenden School and Ph.D. in classics at the University Butler, who was in charge of the Middlesex. Loring’s natural talent was nurtured at Middle- of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Union occupation of Baltimore sex under the mentoring of Russell Kettell ’10, who intro- Before completing these degrees, during the Civil War and later he joined the U.S. Navy on Decem- served in the U.S. House of Rep- duced him to H. Dudley Murphy and John Enser. Murphy ber 31, 1941, serving as a command- resentatives and as governor of then introduced Loring to Charles Curtis Allen, under ing officer of the U.S.S. Manning Massachusetts. After graduating whose tutelage Loring’s paintings matured; he began in 1946. He later became a captain from Middlesex, George enrolled selling his work and started teaching. at Harvard, but he interrupted his in the U.S. Navy Reserves. Shortly after marrying Katinka Podmaniczky, Loring First serving as an instructor college studies in 1943 to enlist in in classics at New York University the Army Air Forces, training as was drafted into the Army, attaining the rank of captain. from 1950 to 1954, Charlie then a pilot. He returned to Harvard In 1948, the Colemans returned to New England, where returned to UNC at Chapel Hill in 1945 and earned a bachelor’s Loring began teaching at Middlesex and, later, in the as an associate professor of classics degree in 1948. Sudbury Public Schools. He succeeded Mr. Kettell as Beginning his career working and subsequently became the chairman of Middlesex’s Art Department, retiring in 1974. dean of student affairs in 1961. for the Ames Textile Corp., a He was a professor of classical family business, George left in Having continued his career in the Army as a reservist, languages and literatures at Smith the early 1950s to establish Stevens he retired with the rank of lieutenant colonel. College from 1964 to 1968 and was Motor Sales, a Ford dealership Loring was an academician of the National Academy of the assistant to the president of in Gloucester. He later sold the Design and a member of the American Watercolor Society, business and partnered with two Smith College from 1972 to1978. the Allied Artists of America, the Guild of Boston Artists, He was also a co-author of Latin other Ford dealers to form the for Americans, a widely used New Bradford Co., a real estate the New England Watercolor Society, the Concord Art textbook that is still in print development firm that built Association, and the Salmagundi Club. today, with an updated edition dealership buildings. With failing eyesight, Loring painted his last watercolor and teacher’s guide published by In addition to his home in in 2009 and began his autobiography, which was edited by Gloucester, George lived part of Charlie in 2003. In 2010, Middle- his retired Middlesex colleague, Hugh Fortmiller. Published sex awarded Charlie the Henry the year in homes in Baltimore, Cabot Lodge ’20 Distinguished MD, and Vero Beach, FL. He was in 2011, Loring W. Coleman Living and Painting in a Changing Alumnus Award in recognition a member of the Annisquam New England is full of history, humor, and fine reproductions of his long and productive career Village Church and the Elkridge of his work. in academia. Club, and was a lifelong car, A memorial service was held at Middlesex in September golfing, and tennis enthusiast. In his free time, Charlie was for Loring, who is survived by his four children, Linzee an avid banjo player and gardener; George was predeceased by for many summers, he left his his wife of 57 years, Sally Potter Coleman-Bagge, Susan Jewell, Peter M. Coleman ’66, beloved Dabney cottage to sail Stevens, and by one son, Bradford and Andrew Coleman; seven grandchildren; and eight the Mediterranean Sea. P. Stevens ’72. He is survived by great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by Katinka, Predeceased by his wife Ethel his second wife, Elizabeth “Betsy” his wife of 70 years, and his younger brother, McPherson Morgan Stevens; a and his sister, Lydia Barr, Charlie John L.S. Coleman ’41. is survived by his five children, son, George Stevens, Jr. ’69; three Elizabeth Ann Kilduff,Charles daughters, Tee Wall, Elizabeth Henderson III ’65, William A. Stevens, and Amy Stevens; a sister,

MIDDLESEX fall 2015 45 In Memoriam

Priscilla Rutherford; 16 grand- Predeceased by his wife Sally years at Carter, Ledyard and Throughout every stage of children, including Abby Stevens and his brother, William H. Ryan Milburn, he was at ITT Corp his life, Dick held a myriad of Laverick ’02; and five great- ’46, Charley is survived by his from 1967 until 1987, retiring leadership positions. He served as grandchildren. sons, Bill and Charley; two grand- as assistant general counsel. line officer aboard the U.S. Navy children; three great-grandsons; Married in 1964, Jack and his destroyer, U.S.S. Davis, from 1957– and a niece and two nephews. wife Ann lived in New York City 59. Following his military service, Charles J. Ryan ’43 and Harlemville, NY. Seasoned Dick began his career on Wall travelers, they enjoyed trips to Street at the investment banking Charles Justin Ryan died on July 3, Charles H. Phelps Jr. ’48 remote areas, as well as three trips firm of Kuhn, Loeb, and Co. in 2015, in Naples, FL. to Europe with his wheelchair. 1961. As a partner, director of The son of Dr. John Charles The School recently learned of the At home in New York, Jack was investment banking, and member and Esther Justy Ryan, Charley death of Charles Haring Phelps, a member of Madison Avenue of the executive committee and was born April 8, 1925, in Des Jr., who passed away on December Presbyterian Church, where he board of directors, he advised Moines, IA. Following his gradu- 20, 2013. was an elder, trustee, deacon, and many companies and countries ation from Middlesex, he joined Born on November 6, 1930, treasurer for many years. Inter- on capital raising activities. He the Navy and attended Northwest- to Charles H. and Frances Brown ested in his family’s genealogy and continued his career as a partner ern University under the V-12 Phelps, Charlie came to Middle- stories, he was also a member of of Lehman Brothers, where he Program, continuing on to earn sex in the fall of 1944. On graduat- the Society of the Cincinnati. Jack was director of investment bank- his M.D. at the University of ing, he continued on to Princeton, loved music, the Philharmonic, ing, corporate finance, and merg- Wisconsin’s School of Medicine. where he earned a bachelor’s the Metropolitan, and Glimmer- ers and acquisitions, as well as At Wisconsin, he met and fell degree in electrical engineering. glass Operas. The Library of Con- a member of the Board. In 1988, in love with Sally Phillipps; they Charlie served in the Army in gress’ Service for the Blind and he founded American Indus- married in 1947, and he always felt Korea and subsequently studied the Physically Handicapped was trial Partners, which became he had “hit the jackpot” in finding at the New York College of Music. an important part of his life for 25 a respected, groundbreaking her. Their son Bill arrived in 1948, An accomplished pianist, he years. Additionally, he was grate- private equity firm. and the family moved frequently also played guitar and composed ful for the fine medical attention In 1996, Dick was appointed due to various internships and music. Over the course of his he received at the Mount Sinai honorary consul to the Republic residencies. They were in Chicago career, Charlie held a number Hospital, especially the Corinne of Lithuania. Also during that in 1951 when son Charley was born. of jobs that drew upon his elec- Goldsmith Dickinson Multiple time, he was appointed to the From there, the Ryans moved trical engineering skills, many of Sclerosis Center and the Martha newly formed San Francisco to Long Island, Washington, DC, them entrepreneurial and some Stewart Center for Living. Committee on Jobs. He was dedi- and then Seattle, where Charley corporate. In addition to his wife, Jack cated to philanthropy and offered briefly practiced radiology at Predeceased in 2011 by his is survived by his sister, Mary his services and support to many The Tumor Institute. This was wife, Nancy Young Phelps, Charlie M. Doyle, and her children, John institutions, including Middlesex, followed by a stint at The Ohio is survived by their son Alden and and Nancy; Ann’s sisters, Martha where he served as a trustee from State University School of by his brother, Peter W. Phelps Tarantino and Sarah Lande; 1992–98. His most memorable Medicine. ’53. His uncles, the late Randolph many nieces and nephews; and philanthropic lifetime achievement In 1957, Charley joined a R. Brown ’13 and Huntington his devoted caregiver, Brenda was the California Academy of practice, and the family settled in Brown ’17, were also Middlesex Brathwaite. Sciences; as chairman of its Board Sally’s hometown of Battle Creek, graduates. from 1996 until its reopening in MI, where they lived for over 30 2007, he helped rebuild the Acad- years. He served as president of W. Richard Bingham ’53 emy into the world-class science the Calhoun County Medical John H. McChord, Jr. ’50 and educational institution that Society and collaborated on a Wheelock Richard Bingham it is today. popular and somewhat notorious John Hynes McChord, Jr. died died peacefully at his cherished Dick is survived by his wife, column in the Society’s newsletter. on May 17, 2015. home in Fishers Island, NY, on Wendy Wasson Bingham; his Following his retirement from The son of John Hynes and August 18, 2015, surrounded by children, Lock, Frances, and the practice of medicine in 1987, Alberta Perkins McChord, Jack his loving family. Grace Bingham; and his sister, Charley and Sally moved to was born in Louisville, KY, on Dick was born in New Betsy Bingham Davis. Naples, FL, where they had often May 2, 1932. In 1946, he joined York City and grew up in Bucks vacationed. He served as chair of the fourth class as a Middlesex County, PA, and Hillsborough, the ethics committee at Naples Prize Scholar and, after gradu- CA. He attended Hillsborough Community Hospital and quietly ating, moved on to Princeton, School and Town School for gave time and funding to various where he studied in the Woodrow Boys before coming to Middlesex. humanitarian organizations. He Wilson School. Drafted from He went on to earn degrees at was a beautiful and kind person Harvard Law School in 1955, Jack Stanford University and Harvard who treated everyone with love and served in the Army for two years Business School, also attending respect; his wit, wisdom, and human- and returned to complete his J.D., the Universities of Geneva ity will forever be remembered. graduating in 1959. After several and Paris.

46 MIDDLESEX fall 2015 Charlie is survived by his wife, The New School in New York City Francis A. Kuhn III ’56 Constance Thomson Barnes; his Joseph J. Ecker, Jr. ’67 to design an online adult education three children, Mindy McGinn, curriculum by recommending Francis Augustus Kuhn III died Amie Lee, and Ben Barnes; and Joseph James Ecker, Jr. passed software and developing the in- on January 18, 2015, surrounded seven grandchildren. away in his sleep at his home in terface for course syllabi, online by his loving family. Baton Rouge, LA, on October 20, registration, and instruction. The The son of Joan and Francis A. 2015. program, called DIAL (Distance Kuhn, Jr., Frank was born on Alessandro Vitelli ’63 Born on December 7, 1948, in Instruction for Adult Learners), December 15, 1937, in St. Louis, Cambridge, MA, Jay attended was launched in the spring 1994 MO, where his family lived until Alessandro Vitelli died on his public schools in Concord, MA, semester with three courses. moving to Bermuda in January beloved Mount Desert Island, and graduated from Middlesex in Shortly after, Stephen was named 1948. He joined the fifth class at ME, on April 15, 2015. 1967. He then earned B.S. in hotel director of the division, with Middlesex in 1951 and continued Sandro was born in Rome and restaurant administration at responsibility for managing the on to Boston University after on July 26, 1944. His father was Cornell University. Following his systems and administrative side. graduating. Married to Dona Ruth an Italian diplomat whose career graduation, Jay worked in the DIAL proved to be a pioneer in Gennari on June 24, 1961, Frank took the family to Vienna, Zurich, Boston area in sales. He eventu- online learning. Stephen directed and his wife raised two children in New York, Bordeaux, and Belgrade ally married Linda Foss in 1983 the technical side of the program suburban Baltimore. He was in before bringing them to Boston and attended the Institute of for ten years, by which time The the dry cleaning business, run- in 1956. Sandro joined Middlesex’s Christian Studies in Austin, TX, New School offered more than ning a chain of stores for 17 years, fifth class in 1958 and, after gradu- with her, graduating in 1991 with a 60 courses online every semester, but subsequently changed careers, ation, went on study at Harvard. bachelor’s degree. After moving to and students could complete going into home construction. His first job as a sailing Baton Rouge, LA, with his family, certain bachelor’s and master’s Predeceased by Dona in 2011, instructor set in motion a lifetime he later attended the Baton Rouge degree programs entirely online. Frank is survived by his daughter, passion for teaching seamanship, General Hospital School of Nurs- Stephen is survived by his wife, Kimberly J. Ritzmann; his son, enjoyment on the water, and the ing, obtaining his nursing license Joanna Gould, and his son James. Peter J. Kuhn; five grandchildren; art of racing sailboats. Sandro’s path in 1996. Jay served as a nurse in and seven great-grandchildren. in life took him to many ports Baton Rouge for nearly 15 years, around the world as a sea captain spending much of his career as an Jeffrey B. Rusch ’80 —including St. Barth’s, where he ICU nurse at Earl K. Long and Charles B. Barnes, Jr. ’57 lived for a number of years. In Greenwell Springs Hospitals. He Jeffrey Bergmann Rusch died addition to sailing, a love of music was dedicated to his work in the on February 19, 2015, after a nine- Charles Benjamin Barnes, Jr. and literature complemented his church, to his work as a registered month battle with cancer. passed away peacefully on June 2, passion for cooking and true nurse, and to his roles as a hus- The son of Juvata and Charles 2015. enjoyment of a good meal. band and father until his passing. W. Rusch ’52, Jeff came to Mid- Born on November 30, 1938, Sandro also worked at Hinckley Jay is survived by Linda, his dlesex as a sophomore in 1977 Charlie followed family tradition Yachts, helped to found The Yacht wife of 32 years; his children, and, on graduating, earned his in attending Middlesex, as his magazine, and freelanced for myr- James Travis Ecker and Elizabeth undergraduate degree at Yale. He father, Charles B. Barnes ’19, and iad publications. He coauthored Dorothea Hoover; and his then lived in Barcelona, Spain, uncle, John P. Barnes ’26, were several books, including Ranger: brother, George Ecker, ’60. for nearly two years, writing and both alumni of the School. On Recreating a Racing Legend; teaching English. Returning to the graduating, Charlie completed his The Saga of the International One U.S., he settled in Berkeley, CA, undergraduate degree at Harvard Design: A Celebration of 75 Years; Stephen J. Anspacher ’70 and began working as a graphic and later earned his M.B.A. at Classic Sailing Yachts; and, The designer, establishing his own Babson College in 1975. Bucket Book: A Celebration of The School recently learned of the business, Rusch Design. From 1961 to 1963, Charlie Megayacht Racing. death of Stephen John Anspacher, He is survived by his wife, served as a lieutenant in the U.S. In addition to his siblings, who passed away on August 26, Zoë Keating, and their son Alex; Army and was stationed in Korea Vittoria McIlhenny, Niccoló 2012, in Pittsburgh, PA, following his parents; his sisters, Laren and for 13 months. After a brief stint Vitelli, Ginevra Tehin, Giovanna a brief illness. Leslie; and his brother Mark. in law school, he began working Vitelli, and their families, Sandro Born August 31, 1952, Stephen as a credit representative for leaves behind an extended family joined Middlesex’s sixth class in Chemical Bank, where he stayed of friends and sailors in the Mount the fall of 1964. Following gradua- for five years. Following that, Desert Island community—as tion, he went on to earn his A.B. Charlie went into the investment well as around the world—and in English at Columbia University business and became an invest- his partner, Diana Paine. and, later, an M.A. at Columbia’s ment analyst, which remained Teachers College. While working his profession for the rest of his on his doctoral dissertation on career. online education, Stephen helped

MIDDLESEX fall 2015 47 Back Story

Join Us in Celebrating Coeducation at Middlesex School May 21, 2016 • The Barron Room • 2:30 p.m.

Recovery

In the sport of rowing, “recovery” is the phase summer and given double-hung windows of the stroke cycle between release and catch, with UV-protected glass to shield the wooden when a rower is moving toward the stern of boats inside. To minimize future flooding, the shell in preparation for the next stroke. new walkways of pervious brick pavers were Recently, the Locke Boathouse and the installed around the building, along with shoreline of Bateman’s Pond underwent a better weather stripping. And in the spring, different kind of recovery—a reclamation— there will be a new, floating dock—perhaps while nearby Clay House was being the feature that rowers and fishermen will renovated. appreciate most. Named for a legendary Middlesex master Concurrently, the periphery of the pond —Charles W. Locke, who taught classics and and its adjacent wetlands were also attended The Locke Boathouse coached rowing for 41 years (1918–59)— to, as an invasive species plant management is named for Charles the boathouse was dedicated on June 9, 1951. program was initiated. With permission W. Locke, legendary Sturdily built of concrete blocks, the structure from the town, and the assistance of Bartlett was the heart of Middlesex crew for decades, Tree Experts, invasive plants were carefully classics teacher until longer course requirements forced the removed by hand, allowing indigenous and rowing coach varsity boats to train and race on the Concord species, like small blueberry bushes and at Middlesex from River. But while the varsity has been rowing wildflowers, to thrive. 1918 to 1959. out of the new Paumgarten Boathouse since “It was a delicate process,” says Head of 2012, the Locke Boathouse has remained the School Kathy Giles, “but that—and the newly novice rowers’ home, the place where they clad boathouse and the new dock—are part learn how to take a smooth, synchronized of the restoration of a beautiful corner of stroke as a crew. campus that we haven’t been able to get to In need of attention after six decades previously.” When finished with this recovery of storms, snow, and flooding, the Locke phase, the Locke Boathouse will be prepared Boathouse was covered in new siding last for another novice crew season. M

48 MIDDLESEX fall 2015 Join Us in Celebrating Coeducation at Middlesex School May 21, 2016 • The Barron Room • 2:30 p.m.

In May of 2016, Middlesex’s first coeducational class will celebrate its 40th reunion. Mark the occasion by nominating an alumna who lives her promise every day.

N ominations may be sent to Director of Alumni Relations John Morrissey at [email protected].

Help Middlesex commemorate and reflect on the School’s evolution at a panel discussion on coeducation, to be held during Alumni Weekend. Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID 1400 Lowell Road Concord, MA 01742 P.O.Box 9122 Permit No. 116 Concord, Massachusetts 01742-9122 www.mxschool.edu

Commissioned for the School by 11 families of Middlesex students from China, two intricately carved, ceremonial guardian lions were placed at the entrance to the athletic complex and celebrated with a dedication ceremony on October 29, 2015. For the full story, please visit: https://www.mxschool.edu/article/ 2015/october/new-lion-statues-guard- peace-and-prosperity.