Cover: 2cm x 2cm grid on an A3 format. The Oliver Chene ’16 students then transferred by hand the image to a larger A2 canvas overlaid Self portrait, 2013 with a 4cm x 4cm grid—an enlarging Acrylic on paper technique often used by artists during Oliver joined the School in Grade 2 the Renaissance. when his family moved to London from Using acrylics in a cool and a warm Greenwich, CT. His brother, Jasper, shade of each primary color plus white, Contents graduated in the Class of 2013. Oliver the students set to work on recreating is a three-season athlete, playing their portraits in paint. volleyball and basketball, and rowing Visual arts teacher Martin Drexler on the crew team. In London, he enjoys (P ’23; ASL 2008–present) says, watching movies with his friends and “This is a perfect example of mixing old finding the best burger restaurants techniques with new technology. And in town. rather than an exercise in portraiture, the The class project that produced project was primarily an assignment in Oliver’s work began with students taking color theory. The students responded a series of photographs of themselves. extremely well and produced some Once the perfect shot was achieved, it wonderful pieces that will make up part was uploaded to Photoshop, manipulated of their Advanced Placement Studio by the artist, and then overlaid with a Art portfolios.”

4 Commencement 2013 10Alumni in Technology The Class of 2013 at Five ASL alumni help to Central Hall Westminster shape today’s tech world

Accents, Fall 2013 Our mission is to develop the intellect and 19Technology at work at ASL 22When computers came to ASL character of each student by providing an © The American School in London outstanding American education with a A snapshot of how ASL A look back at the early days of The American School in London global perspective. One Waverley Place students embrace technology the computer at ASL London NW8 0NP The American School in London is a in their learning United Kingdom non-denominational school and does not T +44 (0)20 7449 1200 discriminate against any individual in any way F +44 (0)20 7449 1350 on the basis of race, color, gender, sexual [email protected] orientation, religion, or ethnic or national www.asl.org origin in the administration of its recruitment, admissions and educational policies. The magazine is mailed without charge to current parents, alumni and former faculty and staff, and to many parents of alumni and friends of the School. Editor: Wendy Robinson Contributors: Cathy Adams, Liz Allen, Colin Bridgewater, Esther Cole, Roberto d’Erizans, Martin Drexler, Coreen Hester, Jim Heynderickx, Kristin Howe, Caitlin Huson, Alice Iacuessa, Bill Iacuessa, Libby Jones, Matt Kish, Ashour Lazar, & Gallery 3 News Join Together Auction success 15 Sandy Mateus, Mariam Mathew, Joanne Morris, John O’Toole, Sarah Ong, Salma Raza ’93, John Servente, Patty Strohm, Yolandi Strydom, Jenny Thomas, Spotlight on London 8 The New Frontiers campaign for ASL 15 Steve Townsend, William Vaughan Class notes 26 TEDxASL 16 Photography: Astonleigh Studio, Alessandra de Costanza ’11, Di Holmes, Faculty notes 31 A big round of applause for the 2012–13 Annual Fund 16 Caitlin Huson, Wendy Robinson Alumni news 32 The Commons transformed 17 Feature illustrations: Jacinta Sullivan Design and art direction: Powell Allen Ltd Alumni events 34 Harold T. Cruikshank Award 17 Printer: Empress Litho Limited In memoriam 37 Trustee news 18 The American School in London, founded in 1951, is an independent, non-profit, college preparatory day school for students in Kindergarten through Grade 12. The student body comprises 1,350 boys and girls who represent more than 50 nationalities. Gallery The American School in London Left: Educational Trust Limited Alessandra de Costanza ’11 Mrs. Hester, 2011 Members of the Board of Trustees The United States Ambassador to the Court of St. James’s The Hon. Matthew Barzun, Honorary Chair Lori E. Fields, Chair Michael P. Spies, Vice Chair Mary F. Marsh, Company Secretary Coreen R. Hester, Head of School R. Derek Bandeen Karen L. Brush Caroline M. Clark Christopher Finn Priya Hiranandani Vandrevala Left: Paige Jernigan Letter from the Head of School Juliette Rooney ’19 Alexander M. Knaster Elephant Donna M. Lancia Mixed media on paper Alison LeMaire It has often struck me that it’s impossible to go anywhere in the David Novak world and not bump into someone who has a connection to ASL. MS visual arts teacher Dwight M. Poler Salma Raza ’93 (ASL Elaine Proctor-Bonbright Our alumni populate every interesting place there is to go! Whether 2005–present) says, Victoria K. Robertson it’s on an airplane to a remote island, at a falafel truck at midnight “Grade 6 students selected a William H. Roedy in some city center, or a chance encounter at an engaging cultural variety of patterns and infused Joanna Shields them in the space of their Julie G. Skattum event, the ASL connection is always there, ready to be discovered. favorite animal. The black-and- Ramez Sousou white designs were juxtaposed William T. Tucker So there’s nothing quite like an ASL reunion event to reinforce this against a vibrantly layered Kashif Zafar notion. Last night I was in Washington DC for our fall reunion get- background created in ink.” Artist Juliette was moved Advisor to the Board of Trustees together. Particularly touching was witnessing students, parents, to produce her painting by a Richard A. Bailey faculty from all decades make immediate connections. Somehow that family trip to Africa last The American School in London shared understanding of the energy, excitement and eccentricities of November. She says, “I saw Foundation many elephants and African an education in London came to the surface, even for those meeting animals, which gave me my William A. Obenshain, President for the first time. The tales abound—the beloved teachers, the Barbara G. Coloney, Vice President inspiration.” Juliette was born Coreen R. Hester, Head of School world events, the family adventures, the wonder of London, the travel in London and has attended Julie Alexandre ASL since K1. She has a delights and disasters—and invariably the conclusion, “It was a brother, Sam ’17. Juliette’s Albert D. Angel life-changing experience.” Truly, I feel so fortunate to hear the Alison Blood favorite classes in school are Daniel F. Coughlin stories through many lenses. art and English, because she Timothy Craighead loves drawing and writing. Brad F. England This fall’s issue of Accents features an emphasis on our alumni John R. Farmer in technology as well as our regular news items about the special Lori E. Fields happenings on campus. Kudos to our alumni who have used the David E. Fife ’89 Diana H. Greene characteristic ASL creativity and drive to come up with innovative Deirdre McKechnie uses of technology, from new phone apps to accessing services on William C. Mules the web. Always current, always dynamic, we applaud our alums. Janet Newkirk Barry M. Sabloff You make us proud. And we’ll surely be seeing you soon, William L. Scheffler ’66 somewhere around the world! Ellen R. Stofan Susan J. Wilen Warmly, Ex Officio Member Cathleen Wolfe ’86, President, Alumni Association The American School in London Foundation (UK) Limited William A. Obenshain, President Andrew J. Sukawaty Coreen R. Hester David I. Stillman (P ’02 ’04; ASL 1995–97, 2007–present) Head of School

2 The American School in London Accents Fall ’13 3 Feature

HE sun always shines for familiar to every ASL graduating class. She adds that the faculty are impressed solvers and build a better world. graduation. Always. But on Everyone stands to honor the graduates with the Class’s commitment to the Now it’s time for the ceremonial part Friday, 14 June, the “currant as they process to take their places in school’s Community Partners, athletic of the proceedings—the presentation of bun” is struggling to emerge the spotlight. This is the culmination of leadership, and engagement in the Middle ASL high school diplomas. Dr. Chodl Tfrom the low-lying cloud that has their education at ASL—an education East Cousins project. “You have brought reads the names of the members of the loomed over the city for the past that has developed their intellect and a compelling combination of skills and Class and they step forward to receive week. Nothing, however, can dull the character and given each and every one perspective to ASL.” their well-deserved certificates from spirits while emerging from Westmin- a global perspective. To finish, Mrs. Hester lauds the Mrs. Hester and Ms. Fields. ster tube station in an eager stream Following rousing applause, Head of attributes of the Class of 2013, As the newly graduated students return of ASLers—faculty, staff, families, School Coreen R. Hester takes her place “Multilingual and international, artistic to their seats, proudly clutching their friends—to be met with the full glory at the podium to begin the morning’s and political, you possess guts and gilded diplomas, Dr. Richards asks the of St. Stephen’s Tower, which houses proceedings. After welcoming those gutsiness. You have earned our respect. Lifers in the Class—those who have arguably the most famous bell in the assembled to the commencement Welcome to your graduation exercises.” attended ASL from first to last—to stand world, and the Palace of Westminster. exercises for the Class of 2013, Mrs. Board Chair Lori E. Fields (P ’08 and be recognized. This year, there are “Earth hath not anything to show Hester shares her reflections on the ’10 ’14) adds her congratulations to the 13 students who have attended ASL from more fair,” wrote Wordsworth, and class that leaves a noteworthy legacy. graduating class and introduces the their positions to deliver an uplifting their academic success at ASL, but also Grade 1 or before: Brendan Anderson, he was probably right. “The first word that comes to mind about Deputy Lord Mayor of Westminster, version of “Home,” by Drew Pearson for their absolutely perfect timing in Alfie Astor, Austin Brush, Camille Coric, The crowd teems forth into the light this class,” she says, “is creative—with Councillor Louise Hyams, who welcomes and Greg Holden. Then it’s High School arriving at the start of a new millennium, Alex Ericksen, Spencer Lake, Annabel as the sun tries its best to break through a capital C.” The graduates of few other the gathering on behalf of the borough. Assistant Principal Annie Leonard’s when this always-on, digital and connected Learner, Michael Lee, Suryansh Rastogi, the clouds. It’s a short walk via Parliament classes have delivered the range of The High School Concert Choir, as turn to introduce Valedictorian Lisa Ho. world gives us unprecedented opportunity Katharine Sohn, Dorothea Weitzer, Ben Square to the home of graduation in achievements—from all quarters—that always on top form, delivers a moving Having discarded a plan to deliver a to create change for the better. Joanna Wolfson and Jonah Wolfson. recent years, Central Hall Westminster, these students have accomplished during rendition of “Follow the Golden Sun,” by speech about her great love, math, lauds, “I couldn’t be more optimistic Mrs. Hester takes to the podium one a building whose distinguished visitors their high school years. Ruth Elaine Schram, before High School Lisa decided on a faithful representation about the generation you belong to.” last time to congratulate the Class of have included Mahatma Gandhi, Sir Addressing the graduating class directly, Principal Paul Richards introduces of her class. She tells an amusing and Additionally, she asks these promising 2013. “I encourage you to continue to Winston Churchill, the Dalai Lama and Mrs. Hester continues, “You are ‘aware’ Salutatorian Maria Blesie. touching fictional life story woven from students to take great care in this era of commit to helping each other and making a Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The Great Hall, and willing to take on the tough issues Maria recounts how daunted she the lives of every one of her fellow unfettered access to information, where difference for others. Act with integrity and with its spectacular self-supporting dome, of our day: you’ve shown leadership in was by the idea of going to college, but graduates, with each sentence coming integrity has never been more important. remember who you are. You number among was the venue for the first ever meeting the independent school gender equity how, during a college prep workshop from a different voice, highlighting the “Remember, a good name—like goodwill— 14,000 ASL alumni. Remember: Once an of the United Nations in 1946. Today, work; been instrumental in recasting the where they discussed their resumes, she diversity and wealth of experiences of is got by many actions and lost by just Eagle, always an Eagle. Visit often.” it’s the turn of the Class of 2013 of the peer leadership program; and delivered quickly realized the Class of 2013 had the Class of 2013. one,” she cautions. Reminding graduates Afterward, teachers, coaches, graduates American School in London. the best election campaign awareness come so far already. She lists the many Joanna Shields (P ’17), Trustee, ASL that technology is no substitute for and families attend the traditional It’s 10:30 am as the opening chords of program I have ever experienced, including accomplishments and interesting factoids parent, Chief Executive Officer for Tech human interaction, she urges them to celebratory reception in the Lecture Hall, Pomp and Circumstance March No. 1 erupt a memorable interview with Senator about her fellow seniors and marvels at City UK and UK Business Ambassador for step outside their comfort zone, absorb which is bursting with familial groups from the 4,600 pipes of the great organ. John McCain, who commented that ASL just how much they could go on to Digital Industries follows to deliver the the physical communities of different congratulating the graduates. High school Elgar’s opus, composed in 1901, is an students served him with some of the achieve in the world. traditional commencement address. She people, different places and different is well and truly over for the Class of integral part of commencement and best questions he had ever heard.” The Concert Choir members return to congratulates the graduates, not only for cultures, and return ready to be problem- 2013, and the outlook is sunny. ■

4 The American School in London Accents Fall ’13 5 Feature Watch the speeches from Commencement 2013; visit asl.org > Academics > Life after ASL for the Class of 2013 High School > Commencement 2013. Priya Agrawal University of Colorado Daniel Lyew Macalester College at Boulder Shahid Mahdi New York University Mustafa Ahmed University of Edinburgh Nabil Mahmud McGill University Mohammad Alaghband Boston University Danielle Brady Makous The George Washington Brendan Anderson Gap year University Kareem Asfari University of St. Andrews Emily C Mark Washington University in Alfred David James Astor Northwestern University St. Louis Sophie Aversas University College London Tarek Masri Johns Hopkins University Emily Bell Johns Hopkins University Patrick Mayr University of Pennsylvania Matthew Bentley Northwestern University Courtnay McClure Syracuse University Gabrielle Bielsky Northwestern University Jacob McWethy Colorado State University Maria Blesie Princeton University Anya Mer New York University Audrey Blinkinsop University of Connecticut Annabelle Mercer Duke University Asher Bohmer University of Cambridge Ariko Mikoshiba Waseda University Kamillah Brandes Fordham University Phoebe Mitchell Middlebury College Austin Brush Tufts University Jihan Mnaymneh Columbia University Jonathan Byman Cornell University Albert Montoya New Jersey Institute of Patrick Carmody University of Technology Southern California Jad Mourad Colorado College Jasper Chene Northeastern University Juliana Murray University of Manchester Camille Coric Hobart and William Viraj Nanda University of California at Smith Colleges Los Angeles Charlotte Cowles Vanderbilt University Zachary Nathan Cornell University Kasey Craig Colorado State University Julian Nebreda University of Chicago Riley Thomas Craig McGill University Jack Nevins University of Southern David Cress Lafayette College California Christopher D’Angelo University of Chicago Mackenzie Nguyen Westmont College Kyle Dartnell-Steinberg Columbia University Paige Norris Saint Joseph’s University Andrea De Luca University of Illinois at Inda Patel Harvard College Urbana-Champaign Hunter Pribyl-Huguelet Columbia University Jacob Dooris Duke University Austin Price Elon University Nils Elwing The George Washington Suryansh Rastogi Imperial College of Science, University Technology and Medicine Deirdre Ely Princeton University Owen Rees Occidental College Alexander Epstein Middlebury College Kailum Rinaldi Wake Forest University Alex Ericksen Harvard College Sophia Rittenhouse College of William and Mary Sydney Fass Franklin and Marshall College Shannon Roney University of Notre Dame Sarah Fletcher Durham University Douglas Rose Universita Bocconi Sterling Marie Foster University of Miami Sydney Rossiter The University of Paolo Franceschini City University Western Ontario Joshua Frydman Carnegie Mellon University Kabir Sadarangani Duke University Duncan Gans Colby College Gabriel Salitan-Alvarez Skidmore College Clement Gelly Columbia University Chloe Sappern Cornell University Alan Ginzburg University of Chicago Tate Sedar Syracuse University Ishan Guha Middlebury College Faisal Shour New York University Kayla Hanigan George Mason University Bret Silverglate University of Chicago Kaho Hasegawa Duke University William Smithies Australian university/ Julia Hatheway Middlebury College January entry John Herron Davidson College Katharine Sohn New York University Lisa Ho Massachusetts Institute of Natalia Sollecito University of Virginia Technology Shikhar Sood Emory University Philippe Holodny Post-graduate year: Northfield Andrew Stracener Rice University Mount Hermon Kelly Swensen La Sierra University Lyla Hurley New York University Leland Swift Carleton College Alessandro Joabar University of Wisconsin, Edward Thomas Texas Christian University Madison Kevin Tokola Western Washington University Sae Kawakami University of Cambridge Jane Victor Boston College William Kennedy University of Notre Dame Priya Wadhwa University of California at Lara Kingstone Interdisciplinary Center (IDC) Berkeley Herzliya Luke Walden Colorado College Sarah Kotis Tufts University Brendan Ware Purdue University Seh-Joo Kwon Carnegie Mellon University Abigail Watson Georgetown University Spencer Lake University of Pennsylvania Dorothea Weitzer Georgetown University Duncan Lambden Syracuse University Alexia Willems University of Virginia Dana Landman Northeastern University Ben Wolfson Colgate University Annabel Learner Vanderbilt University Jonah Wolfson Wesleyan University Michael Lee Brown University Anna Sophia Young Yale University Soren Lind Gap year: Nordiska Tyler Zschach Syracuse University Muikgymnasiet Alonso López Mendoza University of Exeter

6 The American School in London Accents Fall ’13 7 Spotlight on London Spotlight

London is our classroom Grade 3 teacher John O’Toole (ASL 1991–present) writes, “What better topic of study for third grade social studies than London itself! And what better to explore than London’s two lifebloods, the River Thames and its transportation system. Grade 3 students spend a day of exploration, getting around by boat, tube, bus and the DLR. On board, we pass the historic seats of power such as the Palace of Westminster and the Tower of London to land in the Royal Borough of Greenwich, birthplace of Henry VIII, his daughters, Mary I and Elizabeth I, and, of course, home to the famous tea clipper, Cutty Sark. After a final stop to straddle the Prime Meridian, a foot in each hemisphere and lunch on Greenwich Hill, we board the DLR to begin our journey home!” Lead story Lead BY LIBBY JONES, DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS ALUMNI IN TECHNOLOGY HEY’RE building apps and which Laksh found to be remarkably creating companies. They’re “positive and encouraging” during the science sharks, design gurus, whole process. engineering ingénues—and “Word about the app propagated Tlike you, they are part of the ASL throughout school quicker than I thought community. Here’s a peek into some it would,” he remembered. A few friends of our past students who’ve helped even helped him work out some of the shape the tech world. app’s earliest bugs. To this day, Laksh donates all of the app’s profit to Laksh Bhasin ’12 Muskaan, an Indian-based charity whose Developer, London Bus Buddy mission is to provide a basic education Laksh is a physics major at Caltech who start taking advantage of these ASL to disadvantaged kids so that they can spent part of his freshman year last opportunities, such as teaching himself be employable in a modern world. “In my spring conducting research with the the basics of multimedia platforms opinion, groups that try to provide children Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave thanks to the School’s laptop program. with the skills they need to lead better Observatory (LIGO) Scientific Collaboration, A few animations turned into advanced lives than their parents are very beneficial where teams of scientists are developing video editing for a film, video and to society,” he said. super-precise equipment in an effort animation elective taught by Erik Niemi Citing how difficult it was to be a to detect gravitational waves. Sound (ASL 2007–present). Taking up robotics “part-time developer” alongside of his Loading 99% intimidating? He also recently returned was the natural next step when Laksh ASL commitments, Laksh has put from a stint in Munich at the Deutsches joined the High School; he co-captained app-building on hold to focus on his Zentrum für Luft-und Raumfahrt (DLR), the team as a senior and oversaw Caltech coursework. His dream job is a research center for aerospace and the programming and electronics side to be a physics professor, and his advice technologies, to gain hands-on experience of things. to ASL students who want to pursue with fiber optic sensors intended for “It’s fair to say I was fairly well-exposed careers in science, in sum, is to brace use in medical robots. Animated about to technology at ASL,” Laksh concluded. themselves for the hard, fascinating topological insulators and quantum His computer savvy came in handy his work ahead. “Get involved in as many mechanics, Laksh is a precocious young sophomore year, when Laksh was struck STEM-related activities outside of school man with peculiar scientific talent. by a “seminal” idea for an iPhone app as you can,” he advocates, “and pick Considering his acute interest in string after missing his bus stop. “I wasn’t up some college-level textbooks on what theory and condensed matter physics, paying attention,” he explained. “But you find cool or interesting.” That, and among other specialized fields, it’s hard then I thought how useful it would be if think about how you can translate a to believe he once got his science, math an app could just wake me up as I was missed bus stop into a new opportunity. and computer programming fix at ASL. nearing my stop.” That misspent bus ride Laksh came to One Waverley Place as launched the genesis of London Bus an MS student in 2006, in part because Buddy, an app that aims to ease traveling wake up of the legion of activities on offer for via London bus. In addition to an alarm STEM education, community service and that alerts you when you’re close to your STOP student leadership. “ASL’s commitment stop, the app features a journey planner, to academic excellence was far more timetables and bus locations. Since its noticeable than any other school I release in 2010, LBB has been down- previously attended,” Laksh said when loaded 130,000 times, grossly exceeding STOP describing his first impressions as a the young developer’s expectations. new student. It didn’t take him long to Many users hail from the ASL community,

10 The American School in London Accents Fall ’13 11 Lead story Lead “Technology is a tool, not a solution,” she “All these people are spread said. “You have to build the relationship with people first, and you have to earn the love.” all over the world, and we Certainly, Charlotte has earned both the love and her reputation as one of the leading technology and social entrepre- keep information flowing neurs in her field. Fast Company listed Call2Action as one of the “25 Women-Run Startups to Watch” in 2011, and last year, for them. We keep their she served on Techweek’s panel, “Women Tech Leaders who are Changing the he commented. “We do things at a pace World.” She encourages those who want that no one else can do.” information accessible, we to follow in her footsteps to first get some Being an expert in exceptional tech industry experience before setting out projects has been a hallmark of Eric’s on their own. career since graduating from the University keep their tools and their “Learn from people who are already of Maine’s computer engineering program endeavoring to do something in that space in 2000. In 2004, when the US Army so you can save yourself some lessons,” decided to develop one of the world’s emails safe and secure. she advised. Currently in conversations most powerful computers, the MACH5, to sell the company, Charlotte is ready to support army and NASA research, Eric to broaden her skill set. “I would like to took on the role as the supercomputer’s Such responsibility is both become an expert in other technology primary engineer. Comprising 3,000 that serves the same kind of purpose to systems, this high-powered computational help a specific cause,” she said. No doubt cluster based in Huntsville, Alabama, exciting and terrifying.” her expertise will continue to grow—just was Eric’s “…first taste of doing anything like her fervent hope for the rainforest that huge.” ERIC WAGES ’96 years ago. Due to both his profession and his expat experience, Eric is an active Eric Wages ’96 advocate of Science, Technology, Charlotte Rademaekers Binns ’92 Site Operations Manager, Google Engineering and Math (STEM) education. Founder and CEO, Call2Action As a Grade 8 student at ASL, Eric was a “My time abroad taught me to be In her junior year at ASL, Charlotte was self-professed “musical geek” who filled responsible and to ask questions,” he on assignment to deliver a presentation his free time with brass instruments said. “It’s the only way we can keep up on rainforest destruction to her social and guitars. Now, as the site operations with the technology.” Pointing out that studies class. Wanting to plead a manager of one of 13 global Google Data proactivity in the workplace is a critical show-stopping case against deforestation Centers, he’s a science and math geek management tool in technology, Eric (in a pre-Internet world), she sought who oversees the teams that maintain encourages ASL students who hope assistance from Director of Technology tens of thousands of servers. His past to join the Google workforce or become Bill Iacuessa (ASL 1979–2000), who adventures in computer engineering computer engineers to find opportunities introduced her to the AV equipment in include helping to build the world’s largest beyond the classroom, like robotics. the library. Charlotte dug through old simple solution,” she related. Clients Apple supercomputer. “I’m not bored by “Start talking to people,” he advised. marketing, PR, designing—nothing.” Doing slides and VHS tapes to produce a video include Chrysler, whose “Letters for any stretch of the imagination,” assured “Be willing to seek information. Show the majority of the legwork on her own story of what depleting rainforests Lyrics” campaign incited over 70,000 Eric from his office near Charleston, South the initiative to do these things.” gave her invaluable experience, however, meant for endangering the environment people to write letters of appreciation to Carolina. Not bored, but certainly busy. and she would counsel other newbie app and how to take action against it. She deployed US soldiers, and Columbia When considering his time at ASL, Eric Lara Serebrier Paul ’94 developers to do the same. “Do as much received a standing ovation from the University, Charlotte’s alma mater. She feels grateful for the broad, internationally Founder, iKidNY as you can by yourself, because no one faculty—and discovered her calling as spent two years developing video-based embracing perspective that the School “We don’t stop being efficient New is going to care about your project like a video editor who can invoke change. educational websites at the university’s offered him. “It really gave me a good Yorkers just because we have little ones!” you do,” she recommends. Her hard work Today, Charlotte is the founder and Center for New Media before working idea of what it’s like to exist as an Savvy mom-of-two Lara insists that paid off; Lara’s first app received terrific CEO of Call2Action, a New York-based in advertising and documentary. But the American in the larger sense of the rest navigating the Big Apple with children attention from the New York Times, social enterprise with a purpose to impact she first made when researching of the world,” he said. This larger sense can be stress-free, straightforward and DailyCandy and numerous other outlets. “transform more viewers into doers.” rainforests in ASL’s AV room—marrying is particularly applicable to Eric’s daily fun. But this was not her opinion five That’s why she developed iKIDNY, a “As a parent, iKIDNY is such a time-saver,” In other words, explained Charlotte, technology to a cause and inspiring work at Google, where he manages teams years ago when, as a new parent to an smartphone app that can instantly guide Lara beamed. “I get emails from people “Imagine if every time you watched a action—stirred something in her that of employees who deploy the computer infant son, she suddenly found herself parents to spaces and places especially all over the world who are interested YouTube video, you could make a she wanted to transform into a career. hardware systems within the datacenter mired in unfavorable circumstances for kids: playgrounds, libraries, eateries in having an app like this for their donation, join a mailing list or sign up “Call2Action is an extension of documen- that run Gmail, YouTube, Docs and other previously unknown to her. “I knew NYC with high chairs and the nearest own cities.” to volunteer right then and there.” tary,” said Charlotte. “If we make these Google services—for millions of people. very well, but it was a whole new city to diaper-changing stations, to name a few. Looking back on her ASL days, Lara Call2Action helps clients leverage their great films, we should activate people “All these people are spread all over the explore and figure out after I had a child,” Founded in 2009, the app “took off right wouldn’t have predicted that her career online videos by wrapping them with to care about them.” world, and we keep information flowing Lara recalled. Whether she was stranded away,” according to Lara, who oversaw path would eventually involve app action tools, or “sparks,” so that a Creating her own company in 2007 for them,” he explained. “We keep their at a subway stop with a stroller and no its creation from the initial idea sketch development. “I learned to type in viewer can instantly join a cause, sign was a foray into self-discovery as well information accessible, we keep their elevator, searching in vain for a kid-friendly to the press release announcing its computer class, but I spent more time a petition or pledge money, among other as running a startup, which posed many tools and their emails safe and secure. restaurant or, worst of all, desperate launch. The process was exciting and yes, singing with the Madrigals and going on feel-good deeds. challenges to the determined alumna. Such responsibility is both exciting and for a baby changing table, Lara grew overwhelming for the musical theater music tours,” she laughed. Lara landed “The technology in the back end is “Running a business is nuanced,” terrifying.” Eric wouldn’t have it any other exhausted from Googling a multitude of major with no background in technology. in London with her musician parents as complicated, but for the viewer, it’s a Charlotte cautioned. What did she learn? way. “We do incredible things at Google,” mom-related crises. “I had never done anything like this before: a teen and found ASL to be a “fun, warm

12 The American School in London Accents Fall ’13 13 Lead story Lead News and open place” that inspired creativity. “I was taught to think of ideas and “Every time you make make them happen,” she explained. Lara continues to be busy consulting, marketing and developing other business something—a website, ideas. Her advice for aspiring ASL tech-entrepreneurs mirrors one of the most important lessons she gleaned a presentation, an app— News from her ASL experience: “Find something ASL nominated for Community Partnership Program, that you are passionate about, and set prestigious award in PCA Community Connections grants, about creating it.” you are adding something Westminster ASL’s Service Learning Summit, the Earlier this year, ASL was nominated Learning Institute, and ASL’s overall in Westminster for the ‘Better City, commitment to Westminster Academy, to the world that didn’t Better Lives Award,’ which “recognizes its students and the entire school an outstanding individual or group that community. It is an honor for ASL to has shown leadership in the local area be recognized in Westminster as not exist an hour ago. That’s by taking responsibility for decision- only an excellent school, but also an making, a service or a local amenity.” entity that goes beyond its doors to More than 300 nominations were support its local community in many the coolest feeling in entered for the Westminster Awards this meaningful ways.” year, and ASL was shortlisted as one of ASL was awarded its runner-up three finalists for this specific honor. certificate at a ceremony at the Victory the world.” K–12 Director of Service Learning Services Club, Marble Arch, on 6 June. Sahil Lavingia ’10 Tamatha Bibbo (P’23 ’26; ASL 2011– The School was represented by Ms. SAHIL LAVINGIA ’10 Founder, Gumroad present) writes, “ASL was nominated Bibbo, and SHINE coordinators Belle “I’m not an entrepreneur, I’m a problem by Westminster Academy for our Hayward (ASL 2007–present) and solver.” 21-year-old Sahil is adamant partnership in SHINE, the after-school Jennifer Kirstein (ASL 2009–present). about this distinction. As a freshman at the University of Southern California, Sahil was sought out to help design Pinterest when it was just a fledgling an hour ago,” he explained. “That’s the his focus. “At the end of the day, building 1 social network. He is now in his second coolest feeling in the world.” Sahil left something really useful takes a lot of year of running his own startup, Gumroad, London for Singapore with his family in time and effort. Amazon is so successful Keep in an e-commerce site aiming to streamline— 2007 and started to spend his weekends because it has spent 26 years focused and perhaps revolutionize—the process designing ideas for apps, eventually on solving the same problem. When touch! of selling what you create. “Make stuff selling them in online marketplaces. Google was worth nothing, it was still make money,” he said succinctly. Arguing His initial plans to study computer trying to solve the same problem that it’s Connect with friends, classmates his case that selling things should be as science at USC and later join a startup solving today. Focus is the characteristic The new campaign for the and the ASL community online: easy as sharing things with the advent company were thwarted when the of a powerful company.” And it’s also the American School in London Facebook: facebook.com/ of Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, Pinterest founders approached him to characteristic of a powerful tech star Big things are coming to ASL! Keep americanschoolinlondon Sahil exudes confidence and matter-of- be their fourth employee. “The team who once attended ASL. ■ your eyes and ears open for news about Twitter: twitter.com/aslnews factness. His early success with building seemed super nice and felt enthusiastic endowment growth and construction LinkedIn: http://tinyurl.com/ smartphone apps, from the age of 16, about solving this problem that existed,” projects that will have a major impact linkedinasl speaks to his natural talent and business said Sahil on why he accepted their on our program at the School. Under the acumen. Today, Sahil is touted as one offer. For a self-starter like himself, Sahil’s leadership of the Board of Trustees and Stay updated with life at One of the rising stars of Silicon Valley, a small-shop gig meant more opportunity Join Together Auction is a in accordance with our Strategic Plan, Waverley Place, from robotics “wunderkind” who is a whiz at building for learning and doing: he designed resounding success! a major initiative is underway that will competitions and athletics a product and raising money for it (it only Pinterest’s smartphone app, the site’s The two-day, community-building, biennial involve adding significant funds to our updates to the latest from the took him four days to round up $1.1. social sharing buttons and most of the PCA auction took place Friday-Saturday, endowment, particularly in support of student editors at the Standard, million from investors for Gumroad). front-end work. What was the coolest part 15–16 March 2013. The “Join Together” financial assistance to help increase the asl.org/socialmedia What few realize is that he got his about working at Pinterest? “Every time event kicked off on Friday in the Farmer socio-economic diversity of ASL’s student start in tech design at ASL, where, as a I built something, it was used millions Family Gymnasium with a brunch population. In addition, major renovation new sixth grader, he became enamored and millions of times. To be able to have and silent auction, followed by a kids’ and new construction will take place with the Photoshop software available that scale is pretty neat.” party with games and treats in the for our middle school and high school on the School’s computers. “I started Sahil left Pinterest a year later to start afternoon, and an exciting concert by science labs, which will be brought up to playing around, Googled a few tutorials Gumroad and already has success stories popular entertainer Randolph Matthews. 21st century instructional standards. A and making stuff for fun,” Sahil recalled. to share about his startup. The site, On Saturday, 16 March, an evening four-story Community Arts Building will be Making stuff led to website design for he related, makes it “super easy and celebration was held at the Royal constructed at the corner of Grove End friends, teachers and parents; he was super fast for anyone to take something Courts of Justice. Road and Waverley Place that will even tagged to build the ASL auction of value that they have made and sell it.” The auction is always an exciting and be connected to the main building by an website. The sheer innovation involved Customers include everyone from special weekend that serves as the underground Fitness and Aquatic Center. in those projects is what drew Sahil independent authors who now make six PCA’s primary fundraising source for its This is the biggest addition to the ASL into computer engineering. “Every time figures a year to artists like Bon Jovi who programs, projects and grants covering a campus in many years, and we look you make something—a website, a sell songs directly to their 40 million fans. two-year operating budget. The proceeds forward to reporting more on this project presentation, an app—you are adding Much like Gumroad’s usability, the secret from this year’s event helped to fund the as we come closer to ground breaking in something to the world that didn’t exist to Sahil’s growing achievement is simple: fabulous refurbishment of the Commons. spring 2014.

14 The American School in London Accents Fall ’13 15 1 TEDxASL News 2 2 Ribbon cutting in the Commons 3 Libby Jones Save 4 Board Chair Lori E. Fields, Donna McClure, Head of School Coreen R. Hester and the date... Trustee Bill Roedy

Next summer’s Institute: 16–18 June 2014. Course offerings include: Creating a Culture of Thinking Ron Ritchhart Pedagogy and Approaches to Teaching and Learning in a Technology-Enriched Environment The Institute, in its fifth year, goes Jeff Utecht 4 from strength to strength in providing Cognitive Coaching A big world-class professional learning William Powell and opportunities for educators in the heart Ochan Kusuma-Powell of London. Hosted by ASL, our courses round of are handpicked to reflect the most Positive Discipline in current educational trends and research. the Classroom applause! The mission of the Learning Jane Nelsen, Mary Nelsen Tamborski Institute at ASL is to inspire excellence and Joy Marchese Thank you one and all for your in teaching and learning through innova- Visit the website for more information! contribution to the 2012–13 Annual tive, research-based professional www.asl.org/LI Fund! A truly successful parent development opportunities for volunteer effort led by Jennifer and educators world-wide. Thomas Sheehan (P ’16 ’19 ’23), the 2012–13 Annual Fund reached the organizers, and they made everything new heights, raising £1,637,921. The Commons transformed! The Harold T. Cruikshank 1 happen. It was great to give some input We are grateful to all our generous 3 The ribbon may have been orange, but it Award through the committee, but all the credit donors—trustees, parents, alumni, was a blue-ribbon moment for ASL history! On Friday, 20 September, the Board of goes to the students. They reached out parents of alumni, grandparents, On Monday, 19 August, the new Commons Trustees recognized the dedication and and compelled the incredibly thought- and our faculty and staff—whose officially opened to thunderous applause service of Donna McClure (P ’13 ’15) provoking speakers to share their story participation and support is from returning faculty and staff in a by presenting her with the Harold T. with us at ASL.” essential to ensuring the margin of ribbon-cutting ceremony held during an Cruikshank Award at the annual trustees’ TEDxASL lead coordinator Alec ’15 excellence at ASL. all-school lunch. Head of School Coreen reception for faculty and staff at Gibson added, “I think the event was very As you know, tuition alone does R. Hester introduced the dynamic team of Hall. The award is bestowed on an successful, but I think its true success not cover the actual cost of architects and engineers who executed individual who has given extraordinary will be what our audience does with the educating each student—in fact, the renovation, and she expressed service to ASL. Trustee Bill Roedy ideas that were presented at TEDxASL.” tuition revenue generates 90 gratitude to Director of Operations & (P ’14 ’16 ’20 ’22) presented the award TEDxASL TEDxASL team member Gabriel ’15 percent of the expense of each Technology Jim Heynderickx (P ’15 ’17; to Ms. McClure on behalf of the Board. Plans to stage an independently observed, “TEDxASL was about beginning student’s education. To help offset ASL 2007–present) and Facilities Since joining the School in 2007, Donna organized TED event at ASL began in a conversation—a conversation universal this shortfall, the Annual Fund Manager Kevin Moffat (ASL 2003– McClure has contributed enormously to earnest last spring when ASL students to our community that involved not just contributes approximately 5 percent present) for “sweating every detail.” As Meet Libby Jones ASL as a volunteer, serving as PCA set about recruiting prestigious speakers the topics delved into on the day, but one toward ASL’s operating budget each Jim held the scissors in preparation for Libby Jones is thrilled to join ASL as Corresponding Secretary, Booster Club and working on the logistics of hosting that would further promote and enrich the year. A successful Annual Fund is the grand cut, chief architect Ed Toovey Associate Director of Advancement for Coordinator for the Middle School, TEDxASL here in St. John’s Wood. All intellectual environment within our school.” essential to all school operations of Ed Toovey Architects shared his vision Alumni Relations. She succeeds Liz Allen, PCA Grade Rep, member of the Communi- their hard work paid off! On Saturday, HS Technology Coordinator and TEDxASL and is ASL’s top fundraising priority. for the improved space. Noting the who now serves the advancement office cations Council, and Booster Club 12 October, the School Center was at mentor Mariam Mathew said, “TEDxASL As the new school year begins, circular shape of the room, the extension as Director of Online Communications. President—a role she held for two years. capacity for TEDxASL, where a line-up of was an amazing event, not just because so does the kick-off for the of natural light, the new windows with Previously, Libby worked as communica- And this past March, she spearheaded— speakers from a range of backgrounds it was the first of its kind, but also 2013–14 Annual Fund. Your gift views of the outdoor courtyard and the tions manager at the Buckley School in as auction chair—the superb fundraising spoke about how we as individuals can because hosting such an event at ASL is allows ASL to cover costs associated additional entrances to the School Center New York City, where she was responsible efforts of the PCA Join Together auction, benefit our community. Open to the general a rare opportunity to ‘break through the with running a strong academic Foyer, he said, “this circle gives a sense for the school’s alumni magazine and whose proceeds went to the incredible public as well as the ASL community, the bubble’ of our building and our wonderful program and provides the resources of togetherness, and that is what this website content. She also spent two refurbishment and transformation of the event comprised 14 speakers presenting community and reach into the greater needed to support our faculty and community is all about.” years teaching and living at a British Commons this summer. on the theme “Empowering a community part of London, and even the world. Our staff, and bring outstanding All thanks for this project go to our boarding school, deepening her love of through one,” interspersed with TED theme this year, ‘Empowering Community education opportunities to each Parent Community Association (PCA). school communities (and Harry Potter). videos throughout the day. through One,’ reminds us of the power and every student. Every gift makes Proceeds from the hugely successful A native of Darien, Connecticut, and a K–12 Director of Curriculum and of one idea, one person, one spark to a difference. Join Together Auction, held in March, proud alumna of the University of Virginia, Instruction and member of the TEDxASL set a community ablaze. Let’s hope we’ve were donated to the School to fund the Libby volunteers with the UVa club in speaker selection committee Roberto moved closer to doing that with what Please visit www.asl.org/giving to transformation. During the summer, the London when she isn’t finding occasions d’Erizans (ASL 2010–present) said, “It we’ve heard at TEDxASL this year!” make your online gift today! Commons interior was stripped down and to bake salted caramel brownies for her was impressive to see the product of this To find out more about the event remodelled to create this fabulous lucky colleagues. Welcome to ASL, Libby! student-driven event. From beginning to and read speaker biographies, visit community space. end, students were the driving force and www.tedxasl.com.

16 The American School in London Accents Fall ’13 17 News Feature TECHNOLOGY AT WORK AT ASL Trustee news ECHNOLOGY has come a The ASL Board of Trustees a medical care provider for at-risk, During her career, Joanna has also long way at ASL from the two has elected four new inner-city children in Boston and New York served as CEO of Veon (acquired by Tandy computers that arrived members in 2013. for 10 years. Philips Electronics), VP and managing at ASL in 1979, the first Alison has volunteered with the PCA director international for Decru, (acquired Tparent-sponsored LaserWriter of Christopher Finn (P ’10 for many years and is an active member by Network Appliance) and VP of 1985, and the retirement of the last ’14 ’21) of the Communications Council. In Production Systems for Electronics for Apple II+ in 1992. Today, technology Christopher Finn and his wife, Anne addition to serving as chair of the Mini Imaging (Nasdaq:EFII). is an integral part of students’ daily Patterson Finn, were ASL parents for one Grants Program, she founded Friends Joanna sits on the Mayor’s London lives and its use is accepted in the year in 1998–99, when their eldest son, of the Lower School Library. She has Smart Board and is a trustee of Save classroom just as readily as pencils Atticus ’10, was a student at ASL and served as a grade rep many times, been the Children. and paper. then returned as parents in 2011 with a member of the Booster Club Board, To appreciate how technology is working their children Conor ’14 and Charlotte served as PCA treasurer for two years Kashif Zafar (P ’16 ’18) for our students in the classrooms of ASL, ’21. Chris joined the ASL Board of and acted as PCA President for the Kashif and his wife, Sujatha, became ASL let’s look at a snapshot from each division. Trustees in February 2013. 2011–13 academic years. parents in 2009, entering the School with Last year, in the Lower School, Chris and his family lived in Lausanne, Her philanthropic interests include their sons, Rehan ’16 and Amaan ’18. Librarian Joanne Morris and Lower School Switzerland for four years. Chris served Sadlers Wells, where she is a patron, Kashif was raised in Pakistan and has Technology Coordinator Peter Cassidy as Chair of the Board of the International and the Aspire Campaign for Princeton wide experience in diversity programs in worked with several lower school teachers School of Lausanne (ISL) and their University. She has also co-chaired the the workplace. to produce a vision statement about the children attended ISL during that time. Young New Yorkers of the Philharmonic. Kashif is a managing director and global technology program for our youngest Since 1996, Chris has served as Alison holds a BA in art history from head of rates distribution and e-distribu- students. Joanne and Peter spend a lot managing director of The Carlyle Group, Princeton University, a BS in nursing tion at Barclays, based in London, having of time facilitating the use of technology a global alternative asset manager. He is from Columbia University School of joined the company in 2005 in Barclay’s in Grade 3 and 4 classrooms, where based in London. Previously, Chris was Nursing, and an MS from Yale School New York office. He is a member of the their work is completely integrated with develop content, and to transform iPad program, the idea for which was born executive vice president at the Overseas of Nursing. Global Sales Management Committee classroom projects. knowledge and skills into products, in spring of 2011. A technical proposal Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) and the Global Diversity Council and also The Lower School believes strongly solutions and new information. At the was drawn up for a 2:1 set of iPads for in Washington, DC, the US Government Joanna Shields (P ’17) serves as co-chair of the EMEA Cultural that technology exists to enhance and same time, teachers are able to select the 2012–13 academic year, which has agency that provides financing to US Joanna Shields and her husband, Andrew Awareness Network. support inquiry and student learning in a from a plethora of technological tools to evolved into a fully fledged 1:1 program investors in the developing world. Stevenson, joined ASL in fall 2010 His philanthropic interests include collaborative learning community. It’s deliver the curriculum; to communicate; starting this fall. Grade 4 Team Leader Prior to that he worked as executive vice as parents of Ben ’17. Joanna was serving on the boards of Race for important to remember that technology to access, manage and evaluate Matt Kish was enthusiastically supported president for equities at the American appointed to the ASL Board of Trustees Opportunity and the British Pakistan is a tool and not a learning outcome. student-related information; and to in his bid to get the nascent project off Stock Exchange. in February 2013. Foundation in the UK, and on the boards Across the division, teachers focus on connect with other professionals in the ground by Grade 4 teacher Kristin After graduating from Harvard College In October 2012, Joanna was appointed of International House and American the skills and strategies they want personal learning networks. Howe, who spent a year as ASL’s in 1980 with a BA (honors), Chris held by Prime Minister David Cameron as Pakistan Foundation in the US. He is an students to use. Just the right amount of The implementation of new technology technology coordinator. Both teachers various positions in New York State and Chief Executive Tech City UK and Business associate partner of Acumen and a technology is utilized to enable students in the Lower School is a thoughtful and were excited by the challenge of how to federal government. Ambassador for Digital Industries. member of the Global Advisory Council to achieve their aims. With lower school responsive process. Any new hardware integrate iPad usage into all areas of Previously, Joanna served as vice of Developments in Literacy. students, tech use is fluid, integrated is purchased with learning objectives in the curriculum. Alison LeMaire (P ’12 ’14 ’17) president and managing director of EMEA Prior to joining Barclays, Kashif worked seamlessly across the curriculum, and, mind. Sound planning provides equitable Already, students are happy to grab an Alison LeMaire and her husband, at Facebook. Since moving to the UK in at JP Morgan and Credit Suisse in the US. most importantly, is developmentally access for all our students and promotes iPad for a project whenever they see fit; Dominique, joined the School in April 2000 to run RealNetworks International, Kashif graduated Phi Beta Kappa from appropriate. At ASL, students are the safe and ethical use of technology. they’re comfortable with the technology 2000, along with daughter Charlotte ’12. the company that invented streaming Middlebury College and he holds an MBA encouraged to choose from a variety and make it work for them. “After all,” Their sons, Henry ’14 and Nicolas ’17, audio and video, she was at Google, from the Wharton School of Business. of engaging technologies to learn, The Grade 4 iPad program Ms. Howe asserts, “kids are natural are currently students at ASL. where she served as managing director communicate and create. They use it A prime example of technology in action experts. We don’t teach technology skills; A pediatric nurse practitioner with EMEA, and Bebo, where she served as efficiently to find, evaluate, use and every day in the classroom is the Grade 4 the students grasp the technology as they extensive experience, Alison served as chief executive.

18 The American School in London Accents Fall ’13 19 Feature

facilitates the repair via its connections if this is the family’s wish. High School Tech Coordinator Mariam Mathew writes, “In 21st-century education, it is impossible to ignore the growth of the use of electronic devices to enhance learning. A school that is forward-looking needs to provide students with experiences in collaboration and sharing through technology. Our students need to be comfortable with communicating, connecting, cloud computing, and developing design ideas through technology. “The Laptop Program in the High explore tools that are introduced to them School is a development and outgrowth or chosen by them to work toward their from this need. The challenge for us as learning goals.” Mr. Kish observes, educators is to create an environment “Students reach for the technology like and culture that facilitates our students they would reach for a pencil.” Eilís ’22 The high school laptop to become responsible and productive wholeheartedly supports the new program digital citizens. We must assist our initiative. She says, “I think it’s really This year, the School welcomed students in developing comfort and ease good, because the teachers add apps to the year. Unlike the program in Grades 7 Technology Integration Specialist Liz Perry bringing in MacBooks to class on a regular with learning and using new technologies help us learn math, history and spelling.” and 8, the Grade 6 laptops are used only to support the tech program and help basis. This has brought a significant and and identifying how new developments Teachers are now able to take what they in school and will not go home; however, teachers with unit planning, professional beneficial dynamism to class and so the can be of use to them in their academic taught in the past and add a level, and this expansion of the 1–1 laptop program development, and technology integration. transition to a one-to-one program began and personal lives. the iPads have changed the way students will allow students greater access to used iMovie, as the files were too large to Since arriving in London, Liz has hit the to make sense. “Perhaps we should consider today’s approach writing projects. Having the resources and enable teachers to further be stored anywhere but on the hard drive ground running and has met with more Conversations between teachers school laptop programs as being more ability to bring in multimedia instanta- differentiate their teaching. of the laptop. Projects that involved iMovie than half of the faculty already. Clearly, involved in the long-standing and than just a “1:1 program,” but more of neously has made for a more real-world “Before the start of this school year, over multiple days became an endless Liz’s year at ASL is going to be a busy one! successful middle school program, high a “1:World program,” as some schools approach for these lower schoolers. Both Grade 6 students did have access to merry-go-round of students hunting for the In the High School, a laptop program school faculty and students have been are referring to their laptop programs. Matt and Kristin have witnessed that with laptops in school, but only when their laptop they had used on previous days has developed from the need for students going on for a couple of years about how This phrase better represents the world the new technology students write more teachers planned ahead and signed up and asking to swap with students who to constantly access the tools required to bring the High School into the laptop of opportunities such programs open up and they write for longer. for them. With one laptop for every two were using them in other classes. for their classes, from Google Apps to arena. With more than 90 percent of to our students to share, collaborate, students, there were times when teachers “Now that students have the use of a mapping timelines to using discussion high school students having ready access learn, and ultimately, grow. We look Working with laptops in found that the laptops were fully booked, single laptop for the entire year, it opens and wiki resources through the Haiku to a MacBook, the School decided to forward to the increased opportunities Grade 6 so they had to change lesson plans to up a wealth of possibilities. Teachers Learning Management System. Tools can make it a requirement for the 2013–14 for developing communication, collabora- As students progress through the School, work around the availability of the can plan to make use of the technology be class specific, such as LoggerPro academic year. tion, and enhancing learning through the use of technology in the classroom is technology. Even when they were available, when it makes sense in the curriculum, (Science) and Geometer’s SketchPad Although early days, the program has the panoply of technology resources just as valuable. Middle School Technology class time was lost as students were not just when it happens to be available. (Math), LogicPro (Video Editing), DiLL gotten off to a successful start. Students available at our fingertips.” Coordinator Colin Bridgewater takes up led from the classroom to the cabinets But the biggest impact may well be when Language software, or Adobe Photoshop are administrating their own machines; Every day at ASL, we see exciting the story, “When students in Grade 6 in the pod to pick up a MacBook. Then, technology is used even when teachers and InDesign, as well as having cross- they join the School’s network and use programmatic uses of technology at work arrived in August, they were each assigned students had to login to each machine hadn’t planned on it. When the laptops subject appeal, such as collaborative ASL resources. The School provides free in the classrooms. From robotics across a laptop that would be theirs to use for before being able to get back on track are locked in a cabinet in the pod, there documents, online dictionaries, etc. software to each student, namely the divisions to using Google Docs to with the topic at hand. Because students is no opportunity for spontaneous use of For many years, the High School has LoggerPro, Microsoft Office Suite, GSP draft essays for peer editing. We often picked up a different machine each the laptops to check a fact, explore a made available a cartload of laptops for and ClamXav, an anti-virus tool. consistently strive to ensure purposeful time, it didn’t make sense to ever save news site, or produce something creative. use in a specific class, which teachers In addition, the School has implemented access to technology for our students anything locally, save any bookmarks, or But when the laptops are already in the can reserve, but this seems cumbersome a service for ASL families, making it K–12, and we are excited to continue customize their laptop experience to meet classroom, those opportunities will in the age we now live in where students possible for members of the community to to explore innovated ways to enhance their educational needs. In particular, appear quite frequently.” have access to various devices constantly. bring in non-functioning Apple products for their learning. this became a problem any time students In recent times, students have been diagnostics. The high school tech office

20 The American School in London Accents Fall ’13 21 History

Alice Iacuessa (ASL 1979–2000) and floppy drive, which replaces one of (ASL 1975–98) to print The Standard on “We had one Apple II Cathy Adams (ASL 1974–2005) asked the tape recorders, and offers faculty ’83–’84 the LaserWriter. fellow former faculty members Bill in-service workshops. Bill Iacuessa takes over from John Ed Ladd (ASL 1983–90) and Tosh Lee allocated to each classroom Iacuessa (ASL 1979–2000) and John Servente as K–12 computer coordinator. become enthusiastic users of the lab Servente (ASL 1980–2008) to cast He writes a software program to score for writing classes. Evening classes are in the sixth grade their minds back to their early days ’80–’81 the ISST cross-country championships, offered for parents. so when anybody wanted at ASL to recall the first 20 years of Another computer enthusiast, John and Eddie Hufford (ASL 1967–2005) computers at ASL. Compared with Servente arrives at ASL. The MS acquires asks him to write software for recording to do something, we would the wealth of technology we take four Apple II computers, and more results and scoring at ISST track and field ’86–’87 gather the students in for granted today, it makes for workshops are held for faculty. A MS championships—both are firsts for ISST HS computer lab is created, also in 1 interesting reading. computer committee is formed, along with events. Athletics Director Chuck Dodson Bottom Green. Large-screen monitors one room with electrical an after-school computer club. In Novem- (ASL 1973–2001) starts to use word are purchased for use in classrooms. cords running about like a ber, Grade 7 holds a mock US presidential processing to improve communication snake house. At one point ’72 election with four Apple computers set up with coaches, parents and athletes. First computer at ASL is actually a in the Boardroom to be used as voting The library purchases its first Macintosh ’87–’88 John Servente was running 2 terminal with keyboard and monitor that machines to record students’ votes. A final computer at the request of AV Coordinator John Servente publishes a rationale for connects to a university mainframe via a tally is distributed giving overall results Keith Bing (ASL 1981–2003), and a using word-processing that includes a computer lab in the dial-up modem. BASIC programing class along with a breakdown by homeroom, dial-up connection is installed to connect how to compose electronically and the classroom next to mine in is taught by Paul Fecher (ASL 1972–95) grade and gender. to the Internet. benefits of doing so. in the math department. Jonathan Nash ’85 and Chris Bottom Red. There was Leventis ’87 are two students keen only one specially installed to learn how to program. ’84–’85 ’88–’89 telephone jack, which was ’79–’80 John Servente returns to ASL to resume MS lab moves to Bottom Red with Apple Math department buys two Tandy his role of K–12 coordinator. IIGS computers and computer classes meant for use on the computers. They are so unusual and ’81–’82 continue. The lab is available to LS and valuable that they are kept in a locked John Servente becomes the first K–12 MS teachers. The MS is the first to ancient dial-up connection. work area! They use tape recorders computer coordinator in a half-time ’85–’86 publish its student newspaper using I used to drive him crazy to save files. Additional programming position. Additional computers added in First computer lab is created in Bottom desktop publishing software. classes are offered by a number of MS and HS. Green for use by K–12 classes. An A writing lab with 18 PCs is created by unplugging it to have teachers in the math department. unofficial computer department is created using a combination of donations of used access to another tele- Diane Heard Homer (ASL 1979–81) with John Servente as HS coordinator. equipment and the purchase of new ones. phone link on the floor.” and Bill Iacuessa arrive at ASL. Both are ’82–’83 Bill Iacuessa acts as K–8 coordinator keenly interested in computers. Diane Educational commercial software and teaches MS computer classes, MIKE MCKEEN (ASL 1973–97) owns a Sorcerer PC, which she uses in becomes available. Some teachers begin which are offered for the first time. A lab ’91–’92 her math classes. A proposal is made using it with their classroom computers. assistant is hired. The last Apple II+ is retired after 10 to purchase four Apple II computers for Ruth Heuman (ASL 1970–2009) A parent donates money to media years of active service. the Middle School. The high school introduces LOGO to her math students. services to purchase the first LaserWriter math department buys an external 5.25” at ASL. Keith Bing works with Tosh Lee

22 The American School in London Accents Fall ’13 23 History

“When I came to ASL as a sixth grader in “My first computer memory was in 1978 1979, technology was just beginning to when little Jonathan Nash ’85 came into appear at the School. In 1980, I clearly my room selling cards. I asked him if he remember taking a summer programming was selling the cards for charity. He said course in the HS computer lab, which no, he was saving up to buy his own was full of TRS-80 computers. We wrote personal computer. I said I’d buy some simple programs in BASIC that printed cards, but I’d never heard of such a crazy “I don’t recall there being a HELLO all over the screen. In 1980, as “When I arrived in 1972, the School had idea in my life! His own computer! In a seventh grader, the MS staged a one computer monitor and keyboard with 1980, Paul Fecher (ASL 1972–95) led presidential election. Nestor Carbonell access to a mainframe computer at a some sessions in the Boardroom for lot of technology prior to the ’86 was Ronald Reagan, Heather university for one hour per day. Access interested HS/MS teachers. We shared Ferguson ’86 was John Anderson, and was via telephone. If one wanted to two computers among 20 teachers, and establishment of a computer I was Jimmy Carter. Alice Iacuessa (ASL ‘save’ a program that had been written he tried to teach us BASIC. I went on a 1979–2000) organized the campaign and and typed, one saved it on paper tape. computer sabbatical in 1981–82 and Bill Iacuessa (1979–2000) organized At that time, there was one computer studied with Hap Peele at UMass (an lab, which was pretty advanced the voting. The Boardroom, which back programming class, taught by Bernie Iacuessa suggestion). He sent me to then was the first room on the left at Olimunder. Bernie left ASL in 1973 and New York City, where Seymour Papert for its time. I believe the first the Loudoun Road entrance, became I was recruited to teach the course. In was conducting a seminar introducing voting central. Apple II computers were the early 80s, there were two or three teachers to his new language called set up and students came in and voted computer programming classes taught LOGO. I read Mindstorms and fell in love machines they used there electronically. This was very high tech in the math department by myself and with LOGO. From 1982 to 1986, we considering elections in Britain still used later Phil Young (ASL 1969–99), taught LOGO in Grade 7, mainly on a were Apple IIs. Prior to that, paper ballots and voting boxes. There Joyce Anderson (ASL 1980–2012) and project basis. I also ran a girls’ computer was no need to have a team of people Dave Sutherland (ASL 1970–98).” club after school in 1985, since the counting the ballots by hand as the girls found it difficult to get any time on PAUL FECHER (ASL 1972–95) the only thing that comes to computers did all of the tallying for us. the two Apple II+ computers we had in Brilliant! In Grade 10, I took Journalism each grade. I remember two tiny fifth “I remember the first time we were exposed I with Tosh Lee (ASL 1975–1998). She grade girls, Ellen Goldberg ’91 and mind are the mimeograph to computers; it was in the 80s. Bill made us do something unheard of back Becky Storck ’91, carrying huge heavy Iacuessa (ASL 1979–2000) led a then, but that was so important for our computers, disk drives, and monitors up workshop for MS teachers. We all sat machines in the teachers’ future. She made us compose our class the stairs from the fifth grade so we could there with this amazing machine trying to work straight into the computer. Of all the have enough machines to run the club.” write simple programs that would do 1 things I learned at ASL, nothing was more areas with the crank handles things like count, bounce a ball back and RUTH HEUMAN (ASL 1970–2009) important for my academic future than forth, etc. We were thrilled with the results. learning to compose work straight into We used little discs in the early days and “At the dawn of the computer era, I had for making photocopies.” the computer.” had to save everything on them—and the been teaching long enough to believe 2 JONATHAN NASH ’85 JONATHAN SCHWARTZ ’86 discs did not always decide to work.” I had encountered every conceivable excuse for late or shoddy work. Students KAREN SELLARS (ASL 1968–2004) always seemed to dwell in households populated by paper-eating dogs, paper- swallowing snakes, paper-stealing birds, or mothers who thoughtlessly threw “In the MS art department, The picture of technology at ASL homework in the trash. However, an alibi I today is a world away from these had not heard previously turned up when humble beginnings. On a typical I used the computer a little a student explained a missing assign- school day, between 200 and ment with: “The computer lost my files.” 300 gigabytes of information are I couldn’t follow his explanation for this as a teaching tool but as we downloaded from the Internet. disaster, but not wishing to betray my At peak times, up to 1,000 users ignorance of the new technology, I utilize our wireless network only had one, it was not very grudgingly accepted his excuses.” simultaneously. Year on year, our Internet bandwidth increases RAY REUHL (ASL 1978–93) effective. When I retired in by 50 percent. The School runs 170 iMacs and 80 Dell desktop 1995, I still wrote reports computers, primarily for administrative use. There are 82 printers around the building, by hand!” 94 projectors, 40 servers and 12 terabytes of storage. Who SALLY MARLOW (ASL 1964–95) knows what the next 20 years will bring to One Waverley Place!

24 The American School in London Accents Fall ’13 25 Alumni 1 Anson Krickl ’63 1 4 7 2 Ned Thomas ’13 and Kathleen Waring ’76 3 Roger Yapp ’84 with his family 4 Tara McEldowney Hartley ’85 5 Paul Cantini ’81 6 Wes Lohec ’77 and daughter Katie 7 Drawing of Erica Müller ’74 from her senior yearbook 8 Andrew McGovern ’84 and his kids

Class 2 5

notes 8 ’81 While in London for work, Paul Cantini stopped by campus for his first trip back Kennis Nantucket mystery novels, to ASL in more than 30 years. He vividly Nantucket Sawbuck, will be published by 3 6 ’63 recalled how, after falling from the Anson Krickl stopped by ASL on a Poisoned Pen Press. The second one, bleachers during PE and breaking his whim while visiting a friend in London. A Nantucket Five-Spot, is due in 2015. In elbow, the late Eddie Hufford (ASL graduate of the Gloucester Gate location, April 2014, Gutter Books is bringing out 1967–2005) picked him up and carried this was his first visit to our St. John’s my dark noir thriller Heat of the Moment, him to the hospital. Paul enjoyed catching Wood campus. Anson lives in Cape Cod. sections of which have already appeared up with MS teacher Linda Benson (ASL in the genre magazines Pulp Modern and 1990–present) and swapping stories Big Pulp. Big Pulp will also be running my about life at ASL when the St. John’s zombie story, “The Risen” in its all-zombie Wood campus had just opened. He lives ’68 issue next June. My work can also be Mary Claassen sends a “bonjour!” to all in Geneva with his wife and kids. found online at The Good Men Project, of her classmates. She is living in Quebec Salon.com and my own blog, Gayla (Adams) Stewart and her Province working on a permaculture farm. ’77 ’80 whereaminowwhenineedme.blogspot.com. In April, Wes Lohec stopped by ASL A rugby reunion! In February, husband, Kelly, dropped by campus in We send our utmost gratitude to Kathy I recently joined the masthead at the with his daughter, Katie, who spent her John Lockwood (ASL 1967–2007) July during their backpacking adventure (Somers) Dunsmore and Ellen Zoschak online arts magazine Numéro Cinq, run by spring semester at Boston University and Bob Carter (ASL 1969–present) through Europe. Both teachers in for organizing their class’s 45th reunion Douglas Glover. Douglas was one of my studying abroad in London. The two had met up with several ASL rugby alumni Aberdeen, Washington, where they have in Chicago this past October. Kathy is professors at Vermont College of the Fine a wonderful time touring the School and for a lively, memorable dinner at raised three terrific kids, the couple has living in southern California, where she Arts, where I earned my MFA in writing.” discovering how much has and hasn’t London’s Guinea Grill. Teammates in taught at the same school for 19 years! owns her own locksmith business and changed in more than 30 years. attendance were Mark Pearson, spends time with her 14 “awesome” Dave McCloskey, Chuck Rhea and grandchildren. Timothy Sickinger. These veteran ’71 athletes revisited some of their ASL ’84 Anne (Schultz) Hodges writes, “Our the teaching at ASL as “second to none.” Over the summer, Andrew McGovern ’78 glory days spent on the pitch. Following 22-year-old son, Kevin, recently came “University was a breeze!” she recalled. Doug Osmon visited ASL with his wife, (ASL 1991–93) and his children, dinner, the group met up with home with a few cans of shandy and Erica, who “lived in the art room” as a Lisa, and his three daughters, Maddy, Jana and Billy, paid a visit to ASL. ’69 Raul Biancardi and Mike Cottle ’79 Alumni sweethearts Virginia (Striplin) asked me if I would like to share one student, now lives in Sweden. These Kyra and Julia, this past winter. This was to see Scotland defeat Ireland in the Roger Yapp and his family visited ASL Dollahite and John David Richards with him. Recalling my days in London, lifelong friends greatly enjoyed their return Doug’s first return to the School since Six Nations rugby match at Murrayfield. during their London vacation in June. have been together since reconnecting at I remembered how awful it tasted: to campus. he graduated, and his kids enjoyed Go Scotland (and go Eagles)! Roger described the daily commute to a class reunion in 1999. David has a warm beer and lemonade is simply an looking up his senior photo in an old school from Moor Park, where a dozen painting business in the North Carolina aberration to the taste buds! Sorry, yearbook and comparing ASL to their In March, Anne Sholander visited ASL families lived at one time. The Yapps mountains, and they spend the winters Kevin, you’re on your own for this one!” schools in Rochester, Minnesota, where ASL with her three children. Her son, now live in Chicago. in Florida. Virginia and David send their ’76 they now live. Lisa was amused to Matthew, is spending the semester Kathleen (Vollenweider) Waring regards to all of their classmates! discover that Doug planned on earning abroad in London, and the family was had a tour of ASL from Ned Thomas ’13 an MBA after high school, as he is eager to visit their mom’s old high while in London in April. One of her ’74 now an MD and associate professor of school. Anne remembers being active Last February, friends and former favorite ASL memories was attending ’85 medicine with the Mayo Clinic. The in the drama department while En route to Wales for a special classmates Carolyn Dobias and Erica Elton John’s concert in the gym—a ’70 family was headed to Oxford for more studying at ASL. presentation of The Odyssey, Novelist Steven Axelrod shares exciting Müller paid an impromptu visit to ASL favorite recollection for many alumni of sightseeing, where Doug was presenting Tara (McEldowney) Hartley stopped news about his upcoming books: “In for the first time since graduation. her era. She lives in New Orleans with a lecture for work. by ASL for a quick visit. She recalled January 2014, the first of my Henry Carolyn, a resident of Toronto, remembers her family. fond memories of her English class with

26 The American School in London Accents Fall ’13 27 Alumni Don Jesse (ASL 1964–91) and of the School’s historical timeline! Reagan Andrew Stewart visited ASL on Tuesday, 1 The wedding of John Farmer ’97 fencing after school. Tara still lives and Jonathan reside in Kansas with their 8 January. He also attended the Home- 1 2 Mohamed Abdullah ’01 and in Canada. five children and work in campus ministry coming reception at The Salt House later Mohammed Zarroug ’01 at Kansas State University. that week. 3 Bill Iacuessa, Zara Schwartz, Jonathan Schwartz ’86 and Alice Iacuessa Jennifer Majka and her husband, Eric 4 Wakana and Koichiro Horie ’02 ’86 Lindstrom, stopped by campus during a 5 Doug Osmon ’78 and family In March, David Menashy and his sister, trip to London in May. The couple lives ’99 6 Julia (Wasley) Lee ’98 with husband Sary ’88, stopped by ASL for a quick tour in Ithaca, NY, and Jennifer works as an While in London helping their parents Reginald Lee and their son, Andre William Lee before catching their flight back to New assistant dean at Cornell. celebrate their wedding anniversary, 7 Danielle McGee and David Gourlay ’89 York. The siblings happily bumped into Emily Riemer and sister Katherine ’01 8 Freddie Mellors, son of Pat and John Wilson (ASL 1971–2009) in the stopped by ASL to have a tour of their Charlotte Jarvis Mellors ’00 High School, who was prepping a class alma mater. The two are now based in 9 Henry Carter Ellis, son of Mike and for a quiz bowl “just like in the old days!” ’96 Chicago. Meghan Rathman Ellis ’02 Sulaiman Al-Rubaie Al Shaheen writes, David and Sary fondly remember Mr. 10 Julia (Wasley) Lee ’98, Eddie Seyller, “Wow! I can’t believe it has been 17 Wilson as their favorite teacher. Emily (Wasley) Seyller ’00, and parents years since graduation. After ASL, I went Cynthia and Stephen Wasley (ASL Jonathan Schwartz and his daughter, to Cornell and studied engineering but ’00 1975–2008) Zara, visited ASL in March. Together decided to pursue a career in investment Former teacher Ed Elliott (ASL 1972– 11 Jennifer Majka ’92 and Eric Lindstrom with Bill and Alice Iacuessa (ASL banking in London and Kuwait. I received 2009) called to share the news that 12 Reagan Thompson Hupp ’92 checking 1979–2000), they took a tour of the my MBA in 2008 from London Business Claude Deering had a small part in out her photo School and were happy to run into School and have been working in private Side Effects, a feature film starring Stan Ratoff (ASL 1982–present), equity since then, [initially] in Dubai and Jude Law and Catherine Zeta-Jones. John Farmer ’97 (ASL 2012–present), now finally home in Kuwait. I am frequently Kelsie Johnson stopped by ASL while Meg Bailey (ASL 1990–present) and in touch with Faisal Al-Awadi and recently, visiting London for work. She took a 2 6 9 Chris Almond (ASL 1994–present). ASL’s own Raul Biancardi ’80 has joined tour of the School and leafed through The group enjoyed exchanging ASL stories our firm. It is like a blast from the past, old yearbooks. After graduating, Kelsie and catching up with former teachers and we would love to hear from you all!” studied nursing at the University of and colleagues. Virginia and is currently living in Baltimore. Emily Wasley married Eddie Seyller on ’97 10 November 2012. ’89 Assistant Athletic Director John Farmer While on vacation from their home in (ASL 2012–present) and his wife, Charlotte Jarvis Mellors (ASL 2011– Canada, David Gourlay and Danielle Chandra, were married on 3 August 2013 present) and her husband, Pat, joyfully McGee visited campus. David, a director in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. The festive announce the birth of their son, Freddie, at Citibank Canada, served on the alumni occasion proved to be an ASL reunion of born on 19 December 2012. 3 7 10 board in 2005 and vividly recalled the sorts for several alumni from the Class all-school reunion in Las Vegas. of 1997, including Alex Caparros, Carl Ludwigson and Nick Ingrassia. Also in attendance were Heddy (Farmer) ’01 Rory Regan and his wife, Melanie, paid Botic ’94, Polly (Farmer) Pringle ’91 a visit to ASL on 19 March 2013. The ’90 and John’s parents, John and Tawna In March, Nasser Zarroug and his wife, couple was in London on their honey- Farmer (P ’91 ’94 ’97). Alma, visited ASL and took a tour of the moon; they were married in August 2012. School. The couple lives in Dubai. On his We were elated when Patrick Mace Rory took a trip down memory lane and return to ASL, Nasser commented, “It’s decided to drop by for a visit to ASL on remembered his trumpet-playing days great to see how ASL has developed and Founder’s Day in April. It was his first trip at ASL. Following London, he and evolved over the years. I always feel pride back to the School in 18 years. Patrick Melanie were making their way to Paris 4 8 11 to know that my family and I share a long caught up with John Farmer (ASL 2012– and Amsterdam. history in this School. I look forward to present), whom he hadn’t seen since my next visit!” We do too, Nasser. running into John at the San Francisco airport when Patrick was on his way to New While visiting London with her family, York to start his freshman year at Cornell! ’02 Christine Zoffinger stopped by campus Fawaz Al-Daihani came to campus on Patrick and his fiancée live in New York City. for the first time since she graduated. 7 March. He took a quick tour of the Christine lives in Princeton, NJ, and works Magdalena Zenaida (neé Allison School and was especially excited to at Rutgers University. Bannister) is now a published children’s see the Farmer Family Gymnasium, author, whose first book, An Honest Boy, where he spent a lot of time as a student. Un Hombre Sincero, celebrates the life of Meghan Rathman Ellis and her Latin American hero José Marti. To learn 5 12 husband, Mike, welcomed the arrival of ’92 more about Magdalena’s work, visit her Reagan (Thompson) Hupp and her Henry Carter Ellis on 3 June 2013. website, www.magdalenazenadia.com. husband, Jonathan, visited One Waverley Weighing in at 8 pounds 15 ounces, he is Place at the end of May and bumped into a bundle of joy to his proud parents and Reagan’s former French teachers, Victoria their extended family. Hamadache (ASL 1985–present) and ’98 Koichiro Horie stopped by One Waverley Ghislaine Rose (1990–present). Reagan Julia (Wasley) Lee and her husband, Place while on his honeymoon with was also elated to discover that a photo Reginald, welcomed their son, Andre, his wife, Wakana. He caught up with of her at field hockey practice appears in on 5 November 2011.

28 The American School in London Accents Fall ’13 29 Alumni 1 JD Leonard ’05 and Laura Elizabeth Shepard 1 2 Ryan Doherty ’05 6 3 Cat Martin ’03 and Kendra Conway ’03 at Kendra’s wedding in June 2012 4 Caitlin Simpson ’10 had the lead in GW’s production of Emma 5 Brooke Brown ’19 with sister Claire ’13 LET US HEAR FROM YOU! 6 Mark Wilson and Tara Wilson Jones ’98 Make sure we have your up-to-date email and address, and you’ll receive: London Calling: the alumni e-newsletter Faculty Regional Reception Invitations: events in San Francisco, L.A., Houston, London and more notes Bill Kenney (ASL 1990–present) and Access to the Online Directory: find classmates and friends Kevin Conaty (ASL 1991–present), Send us your details! Email [email protected]. What a special surprise! While in two teachers who inspired him to enter London surprising his parents for the medical field. Koichiro lives with his mother’s birthday celebration, Wakana outside of Tokyo, where he former LS teacher Mark Wilson works as a doctor. (ASL 1981–90) and his daughter, Tara Wilson Jones ’98, stopped by ASL for a visit. Mark taught Grades ’03 2 3 4 5 3 and 4, and also coached hockey Kendra Elizabeth Conway wed Shawn and track during his ASL tenure. Patrick Sluss on 2 June 2012 in Bristol, He was thrilled to bump into Rhode Island. Kendra and Shawn met Christine Rudolph ’85 (ASL while attending Northeastern University 1989–present), Doreen Murphy in Boston. They now reside in Charleston, (ASL 1988–present), Trevor Jones South Carolina, where Kendra is an event (ASL mid-80s–present), manager and Shawn is a clinical pharma- Joan Dyer-Westacott (ASL 1987– cist. Cat Martin was one of Kendra’s present), Jodi Warren (ASL bridesmaids and made the journey from 1988–present), and John Farmer London for the special weekend. ’97 (ASL 2012–present), who a senior English class with a friend and remembered Mark as “one of the relished the chance to catch up with ’06 ’10 best teachers I ever had.” Tara, in Vocalist Lizzy Plapinger and her band, Stephan Mecklenburg stopped by Kevin Conaty (ASL 1991–present) turn, was able to catch up with her MS MR, have been touring nonstop ASL with a friend in January. Stephan and relive her favorite memories from ’05 former kindergarten teacher, While finishing up his semester abroad at since the release of their debut album, spent a year in the Lower School years their physical sciences class. Brooke Diane Weissman (1980–present), St. Andrews University, Ryan Doherty Secondhand Rapture. MS MR performed ago and was eager to tour the LS and her mom, Elna Drava (P ’13 ’19), and take a poignant photo in front visited London and ASL for the first time on the “Late Show with David Letterman” library as well as some of the class- said a special hello to Julie Ryan (ASL of the tree she planted outside in 15 years. He recalled his middle school and has been featured on Vogue.com, rooms. He was spending a semester 1994–2013). the Loudoun Road entrance in years vividly, particularly his class with and in The Times and The Guardian, abroad studying business at Florida During a recent UK trip for a family honor of her friend and classmate, MS teacher Anne Edwards (ASL 1998– among others. Their worldwide tour State University. wedding, Kaveen Singh stopped by Laura Owens ’98, who was tragically present). Following high school gradua- includes LA, Vancouver, Amsterdam, During her spring semester at George One Waverley Place to have a tour of ASL killed in the Pan Am flight 103 crash tion, Ryan studied at the University of Berlin, Paris and of course, London! While on break from George Washington Washington University, Caitlin Simpson and see a few of her former classmates. over Lockerbie, Scotland, in 1988. Maryland and is about to complete his MA University in January, Devon Guralnick made headlines for her captivating Kaveen left ASL in 2008 but is still in The tree continues to flourish! Tara in international relations at Georgetown. returned to ASL with a friend. The two performance as the scheming heroine in touch with several of her friends. A now lives in Washington, DC, with Alexander Fahmi is currently a second- ’07 took a tour of the School and had a GW’s production of Emma. How fitting that graduate of Churchill High School in her husband, Dylan Jones, and is year student at the University of North Congratulations are in order for brief visit with former teachers Victoria her first lead role in college traces back Potomac, Maryland, she is now a the director of communications Carolina, pursuing his MBA degree. He is Kevin Donovan, who recently earned Hamadache (ASL 1985–present) and to her London roots! freshman at Carnegie Mellon University. and public relations at Make-A-Wish studying investment management and real his master’s in international economic Greg Cole (ASL 2004–present). Foundation of the Mid-Atlantic. Will Tucker is a senior at Connecticut estate and is scheduled to graduate in May development from the University of Former math teacher In May, Ona McConnell graduated from College, where he recently earned the 2014. Alex spent his summer interning Cape Town in South Africa. He will Helen Dewey has been living in Yale as one of four seniors who received distinction of being an Intercollegiate with Goldman Sachs’ private wealth continue his studies in a PhD program her hometown of Perry, Iowa, since the David Everett Chantler Award, given to Tennis Association Scholar Athlete. He is management group in San Francisco. at the University of Michigan. retiring from education in the late students who best exemplify qualities of entering the new tennis season as varsity Before studying at UNC, he spent three 80s and stays busy with politics and courage, strength of character and high captain and off the court, he is chairman years with Citigroup as an analyst in their gardening. Because of her failing moral purpose. Ona, a goalie for the of residential life. debt capital markets practice. eyesight, she is now in a care facility varsity field hockey team, was recognized ’09 in Perry and would love to hear JD Leonard married Laura Elizabeth Sean Donovan received his BS in for her grace and bravery when a from past colleagues and students. Shepard on 15 December 2012. The economics and international affairs from diagnosis of Myotonic Dystophy (DM) Cards may be sent to Helen care of couple met at Rice University and now Dartmouth College and joined Morgan derailed her ambitions to play field hockey ’13 While visiting London in March, Perry Health Care Center, 2625 lives in Oakland, California. Laura works Stanley as an analyst in their health in the Olympics. She led a campaign Claire Brown ’13 and sister Brooke ’19 Iowa Street, Perry, Iowa 50220. at Chevron, and JD is an independent web care investment banking group in June. that raised $50,000 for research of paid a visit to ASL to say hello to former developer and consultant in the Bay area. Well done! this disease. teachers and classmates. Claire joined

30 The American School in London Accents Fall ’13 31 Alumni 33

and and

You Can’t Take and You Can’t Take . “This was my first my . “This was erji ’09 How to Succeed in Business to Succeed in Business How Andre Char with the cast of Adam Bond ’99 Aadrita Muk Alex Mor A Picture of Dorian Gray A Picture Adam, a professional actor, spent five spent five professional actor, a Adam, ’08 w Luck ’96 withPresidentObama les Elliott ris ’12

“I ended up at my dream school, and I and I dream school, “I ended up at my about that.” am so happy her college newspaper. Her journalistic her college newspaper. pursuits important are another legacy of since Alex served as her tenure at ASL, the sports . When of The Standard editor Alex high school, if she misses asked nostalgic for London and for grew the high street. off-campus lunches on to be chapter has proven this new Still, young alumna. pretty enticing for the 1 2 3 4 5 Lessons in diction from Lessons in diction from students a handful of HS Last spring, up in preparation could be found warming weren’t for their big performance. They running or shooting laps in Canons Park these student hoops in the gym; instead, up their voices for warming actors were with the of Dorian Gray roles in A Picture ASL alumnus help of their dialect coach, Adam Bond ’99. “I am helping them Adam English,” speak the Queen’s jokingly quipped. The kids under his eager to perfect their tutelage were accents and made terrific during progress “The kids were their sessions together. like were Adam praised. “They great,” absorbing everything.” sponges, active in the where he was years at ASL, and musical ventures. theater School’s Among his most memorable acting gigs are those that took place on the storied old Annenberg Theater, stage of ASL’s including Without Really Trying directed by it . The former was with You Buck Herron (ASL 1998–present) Scott Jeneary (ASL 1995–2001). It was Herron who recruited Adam to help Mr. out with Dorian Gray Adam Bond ’99 time being back in an ASL classroom time being back in an ASL classroom Adam explained. a student,” since I was been teriffic!” “It’s

5 Alex adores collegiate life at Middlebury. Alex adores collegiate life at Middlebury. of three seniors. “I felt a certain as this for them, responsibility to do well she their last year to really shine,” was explained. The 400 meters she sprinted at 58.28 in the second leg of the race, a personal best time. was seconds, “The adrenaline really steers you on,” Alex added. ever I could have more than “It’s she enthused. A long sprinter imagined,” she on the outdoor track team at ASL, initially found running 200-meter laps indoors to be a challenge. “Indoor track demands more tactics and strategy,” Alex said. Though she humbly claims she her outstanding has much more to learn, performance England at the Open New Championships suggests otherwise. Alex and her team also competed at the NCAA indoor track championships in Chicago, an experience she summarized as wildest amazing. thought in my “I never dreams I would be going to a national freshman season,” tournament in my she shared. As for juggling academics with a varsity sport, it comes naturally to the former three-season Eagle. “It wasn’t time a shock. I had to balance my she said. When she’s carefully at ASL,” or sprinting, weight-lifting not training, Alex can be found reporting stories for the sports section of the Middlebury Campus,

Fall ’13 ’13 Fall Fall 3 4 “It was so surreal, I still can’t believe believe I still can’t so surreal, “It was Alex Morris ’12 sets record for Middlebury track about to relay exciting news have We Alex Morris ’12 and her distance medley indoor track at team on women’s relay Middlebury a achieved College: they Alex’s record-breaking run! In February, extraordinary record for race set a new Division III indoor track at the Open New England Championships. The girls came a College, in second behind Providence but in this instance, Division I track team, a second place finish definitively felt first. like remarked Alex. She that it happened,” quick to give credit to her three relay was teammates who are also phenomenal Alex considered athletes. As a freshman, team it a “huge honor” to join a relay AccentsAccents found what I want to do with my life,” life,” to do with my found what I want want to write for TV.” Aadrita affirmed. “I began her the 21-year-old This summer, first job as an assistant to the showrunner the first step in Girl, New on Fox’s realizing this dream. “I’m really excited,” she enthused. She also admitted to the real trepidation about entering having world. But with a top degree from USC, this distinguished alumna is clear that it’s going into the real world with some special gifts to share.

had the pleasure of meeting Barack of meeting Barack had the pleasure before the President's day Obama the Naval A member of the US inauguration. one of Reserve, CharlesIntelligence was 40 military personnel selected to serve as a military escort to high-ranking celebrating officials during the festivities start second term to his the President’s to see our ASL in office. How exciting alumni in action! Charles ’96 Elliott CharlesIn January’96 Elliott 2013, ’09 wins Aadrita Mukerji at USC academic award Aadrita Mukerji ’09 graduated from meets Obama meets the University Southern of California as Josephine a recipient of the Emma a prize granted Award, Bovard Bradley who have to graduating USC students attained the highest scholarship average of all undergraduate women. She throughout maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA The accomplished her college career. economics major reflected on high school, college and the creative adventures that Aadrita her in the next chapter. await that five years found it hard to believe fresh from passed since she arrived, have northern to start California, her senior high school year at ASL. Landing in a new but Aadrita required some adjustment, a seasoned the transition like weathered a much smaller was expat. “ASL high school. public community than my and the teachers really close-knit, It was cared a lot about getting to know you as she explained. It also an individual,” family had hurtdidn’t that Aadrita’s where Oregon, lived in Portland, previously blustery rivaled weather the grey, around a lot as a kid, moved “I London’s. the norm at ASL,” and I found that was nice to meet Aadrita recalled. “It was the worldpeople all over who had those English ASL classes, Two experiences.” ultimately shaped her and Economics, course of study at USC: her A.P. Economics class with John Wilson her to major (ASL 1971–2009) convinced of while her heightened loved in econ, her to enroll in a screenwriting writing drove seminar as a college freshman. “USC Aadrita places an emphasis on breadth,” a school that really encourages said. “It’s different things as you to study as many to her econ major, In addition you can.” Aadrita graduated as a double minor in Ever an screenwriting and French. she found fascinating pupil, innovative including to combine these loves, ways taking six econ classes in French It is during a semester abroad in Paris. that has captured however, screenwriting, her heart. I genuinely “Thanks to USC, The American School in London

Julie Ryan (ASL 1994–2013), Julie Ryan 2 tossed footballs to eager and adoring tossed footballs to eager and adoring school a tour of lower MS students, meeting up with former LS classrooms, Principal and an interview with editors from for our day The Scroll. What a lucky thank MS Assistant Principal school! We (ASL 2003–present) Lutkoski Pete for organizing this memorable program for students. a trip to the playground, where he where he a trip to the playground, with a fan club of students and faculty. with a fan club of students and faculty. include Highlights of his ASL stopover

1

News Alumni In town to watch the Champions League the Champions League In town to watch One Waverley Place and spend some time Place and spend some time One Waverley A special alumnus received a warm A special alumnus received a warm from the ASL community during welcome NFL Luck ’08, Andrew his visit in May. quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts, returned to campus for the first time school student from a lower since he was 1995 until 1998. The esteemed athlete left London for Frankfurt before settling in where he with his family, Texas, Houston, not only excelled in high school football, he also graduated at the top of his class as co-valedictorian in 2008. Andrew matriculated to Stanford University as the number four quarterback in the according to scout.com. He played US, quarterback for the Cardinals and majored in architectural design. by made a point to stop Andrew final, A stroke of Luck for ASL

Title 32 1 Nick and Susan Webb ’78 Alumni 2 The Stimpson family: Sophie, John ’90, 4 1 Henry, Kate ’89 and Matthew New York 3 Marissa (Greve) Lowthert ’92 with Madison, On Monday, 29 April, ASLers husband Chris and Collin enjoyed a special soiree at New 4 Cynthia Princi and Alexa Princi ’05 York City’s Union League Club. 5 Katherine Snedeker and Stuart Fern Former faculty and staff, including 6 Kimeran Daley ’94, Patty Bottomley and Alumni Jan Mikrut (ASL 1974–98), Risham Majeed ’98 7 Sara Molinaro ’05 and father Michael Katherine Precht (P ’08 ’15; ASL 1993–2009) and Katherine Snedeker (ASL 2007–09) caught up over nibbles and wine. Alumni Events 5 families, including Michael and Carmela Molinaro (P ’05 ’09) and Sara Molinaro ’05; and Cynthia Princi (P ’05 ’08 ’13) and her daughter, Alexa ’05, visited with 2013 old friends. Among the alumni swapping stories and sharing memories were Marc Watkins ’89, Kimeran Daley ’94 and 2 Jeremy Dworken ’02. Attention, Thank you to all who classes of ’63, '64, 6 turned out! '65 and '66! Save the weekend of 31 May–1 June for a reunion in San Diego. Contact Charles Scudder ’64 for more details, charles.scudder@akzonobel. com

Connecticut 7 In April, Head of School Coreen R. Hester (P ’02 ’04; ASL 1995–97, 2007–present) and members of the ASL advancement office ventured across the pond to host a reception in Connecticut for alumni, parents of alumni and former faculty members. More than 70 guests gathered in Waveny Park to fly kites, Save the toss Frisbees and savor lunch at an ASL family picnic. The weather was glorious—as was the company! Among the attendees were Lois and Jeff Meyer dates! (P ’07 ’10 ’12 ’16); Kate Flaherty Stimpson We hope to see you at our 2014 ’89, her husband, John Stimpson ’90, and alumni receptions! Reminisce their kids; Diane Discenza (P ’09 ’12); Founder’s Day ASL celebrated Founder’s Day on and raise a glass with the ASL and Marissa Greve Lowthert ’92 Three score and two years ago Monday, 22 April. In honor of the community in your neighborhood. and her family. The afternoon was 3 ASL was founded School’s 62nd anniversary of its a grand affair for the ASL Thur, 30 January: Boston Launching thousands of academic careers founding, StuCo representatives community in Connecticut. Stephen Eckard would be astounded handed out spirit wristbands to all Sat, 15 February: San Francisco who passed through the doors, and That the school he started in his flat Wed, 19 February: Los Angeles students later received bookmarks With thirteen students strong during morning classes outlining the Sun, 27 April: Connecticut Would grow and grow in St. John’s Wood School’s history. Yet another treat Where we all proudly now belong Mon, 28 April: New York City awaited the ASL community at lunch: Elton John, Roald Dahl and John McCain Founder’s Day cupcakes. Happy Questions? Email Alumni Director Are some past distinguished guests. Birthday, ASL! Here’s to many more Libby Jones, [email protected] Trips abroad, sport wins and top courses years of academic success. Are some reasons we’re the best So happy birthday, ASL Here’s to sixty-two great years The best is yet to come For the school we hold so dear!

34 The American School in London Accents Fall ’13 35 Alumni 1 Cory Zimmerman ’02 and Viv Jois ’11 2 Jackie Tileston ’79, Jerry Sandham ’59, A bequest: The Bruce House Society is named Philadelphia Coreen Hester and Peggy Tileston ’73 — can provide generous support for ASL benefactor David K. Bruce, US A philodemic in Philly! In February 2013, ASL alumni, The 3 Betsy LaMaster, Kathy McMahon and without affecting your current Ambassador to the Court of St. James’s past parents, and former staff and faculty gathered for Kelly Welch income or cash flow 1961–69, who was instrumental in a reception at the Mask and Wig Club in Philadelphia. 4 Liz Schiff gives a toast Bruce helping ASL acquire and develop the Guests and ASLers Coreen R. Hester (P ’02 ’04; 5 Guest of honor Julie Ryan stands between ­— can be directed to a specific St. John’s Wood campus. Bruce House, ASL 1995–97, 2007–present), Roberto d’Erizans Peter and Lisa Cirenza program or for a specific purpose the head of school’s residence at (ASL 2010–present), Annie Leonard (ASL 1996–97, House — will provide a charitable estate 49 Grove End Road, is named for 2010–present), Paul Richards (2009–13), William 1 tax deduction Ambassador Bruce who gave generously Vaughan (ASL 2011–present), Elizabeth Allen (ASL Society to the 1970 construction of the site. 2011–present) and Libby Jones (ASL 2012–present) — is easy to accomplish with a If you have already included ASL in a enjoyed catching up with alumni and colleagues over simple codicil bequest or other planned gift, we hope drinks and appetizers. Young alumni Courtney Gans A bequest — will help future generations at ASL. you will let us know. Your willingness ’10, Viv Jois ’11 and Michael Steele ’11 offered an to be listed as a member of the Bruce inside view into undergraduate life at UPenn. Past faculty may be best The Bruce House Society House Society encourages others to members who had traveled to Philadelphia for the NAIS The Bruce House Society celebrates follow your example. We acknowledge conference, including Chris Bright (ASL 1993–2001) A bequest in your will may the tradition of generosity at ASL and respect those who wish to remain and his wife, Jana (ASL 1998–2001), and former head be the best way to make a and promotes a connection from anonymous, but we urge you to inform of school Judith Glickman (ASL 1992–98) welcomed deferred gift to ASL. this generation of ASLers to the next. us of your plans on a confidential basis the opportunity to unwind with friends after a day of The Society will recognize those as it supports the school’s planning professional development workshops. Members of the individuals and families who have for the future. Schwartz family, Jonathan ’86, Adam ’99 and included the American School in If you have not included the School Linda (ASL 1991–2007) shared stories of their time London in their long-term financial or in your plans, and you would like to in London. Alumnus Jerry Sandham ’59 had the 2 estate plans. Informing the School explore the best options for you and distinction of hailing from the oldest ASL class at the of a bequest provision, a life-income your family, do not hesitate to contact reception. Among his fond memories of ASL was when gift or other deferred giving arrange- Associate Director of Advancement founding headmaster Stephen Eckard called on him to ment, qualifies an individual for for Annual and Capital Giving show off his dance moves at an all-school assembly! membership. Members of the Bruce Sandy Mateus, +44 (0)20 7449 1446 The evening was a special reunion indeed for our ASL House Society will be listed in the or [email protected]. community in and around the Philadelphia area. school’s Annual Report and invited to special events.

3 4 1 Hilton “Tex” Davis ’61 Parents of 1 2 Anirudh (Rudy) Menon ’05 In 3 Kevin O’Brien ’72 alumni memoriam reception for We are sorry to report that Debbie (Nelson) Austin ’71, and Hilton “Tex” Davis ’61 passed away Chip LeGrand ’72, who delivered Julie Ryan on 28 September, 2013. A resident words of remembrance. Kevin is of Coffeyville, Kansas, Tex was the survived by his wife, Dominique, and At the end of the 2012–13 school 5 2 president of American Craftsmen, Inc. sons Ian and Gregory. year, the ASL community was busy It is with a heavy heart that we share bidding adieu to beloved Lower the news that Anirudh (Rudy) Menon School Principal Julie Ryan (ASL ’05 passed away on Tuesday, 4 June 1994–2013). On 6 June, parents of 2013. Anirudh and his brother, A book in the Mellon Library alumni attended a celebration for Arjun ’09, were students at ASL Collection is dedicated to each Julie held in the garden of Bruce from 1998 to 2003. member of the ASL community House. Betsy LaMaster (P ’07 With great sadness we report the who passes away. For more ’09), Kathy McMahon (P ’09 ’12) death of Kevin O’Brien ’72, who died information, please contact the and Kelly Welch (P ’12 ’16 ’18) in a hang-gliding accident on 23 June American Memorial Collection were among those that enjoyed 2013. Kevin was a great, thoughtful (AMC), [email protected], or visit the sunshine while saying farewell 3 friend—an adventurous raconteur who asl.org > Community/Login > to Julie. Past parent Liz Schiff was seldom without his camera and a AMC. (P ’93 ’03) prepared a poignant new story to tell. His ASL friends will toast for the occasion, which made remember his achievements in student everyone laugh and smile— politics, journalism, photography and particularly Julie! theater. Among the attendees at his memorial service this summer were David Austin ’70 and Susan (Findeiss) Austin ’71, Wayne Austin ’70 and

36 The American School in London Accents Fall ’13 37 The American School in London One Waverley Place London NW8 0NP