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Commencement 2011

Reunion 2010 the magazine of Gill ST. Bernard’s SCHOOL

Table of Contents

FROM THE HEADMASTER ...... 1 2 feature GSB Alumni – The Real World ...... 2 College Corner TT Dechent ’09 ...... 4 SID ROWELL: A DECADE AT GSB ...... 5 GSB NEWS Commencement 2011 ...... 8 SBS Chair ...... 13 Long-term Members of the GSB Family Retire ...... 14 Upper School Unit: 2011 ...... 14 GSB Students Support Service Efforts ...... 15 “A Little Night Music” Strikes the Right Cord ...... 15 8 GSB Green Initiatives Updates ...... 16 Alumni News Reunion: Going Back to GSB ...... 17 Aluimni Leadership and GSB’s Future ...... 21 ATHLETICS ...... 22 PATRONS Former Trustee Recognized With Lindabury-Thomas Award ...... 26 Auction/Dinner Dance Salutes ...... 26 Silverman Family Establishes Unit Scholarship ...... 27 The Todd Quad Dedicated ...... 28 ALUMNI NOTES ...... 31 17

Gill St. Bernard’s Alumni Magazine is published three times a year by the Development Office. Board of Trustees S.A. Rowell, Headmaster

James F. Diverio, Director of External Affairs Miguel Brito Robert Sameth ’89 Kathleen M. Andersen, Director of Publications Laurie Brueckner Katherine Smith Ethan Dubow, Director of Alumni Relations Harry Chowansky III Maureen Stefanick Brian Grzymkowski, Director of the Annual Fund Matthew Clark ’94 Janine Udoff and Special Gifts Samuel Corliss Michael Weinstein ’87 Ginny Needham-Doyle, Director of Parent Relations Donald Fuentes and Special Events Jill Gateman Honorary Trustees Julie Ruby, Data Manager John Howard Patricia Aresty Adrienne Kirby Joseph Behot Gill St. Bernard’s School 22 P.O. Box 604, St. Bernard’s Road Douglas Matthews Brandon Clark Gladstone, NJ 07934-0604 Mary McNamara William F. Conger 908-234-1611 Edmond Moriarty, III Richard Emmitt www.gsbschool.org Elizabeth Nametz Barbara Evans Correction: The caption for the photo on the bottom of Ellen Nardoni Thomas B. Evans pg. 9 in the Spring 2011 issue of the GSB Magazine should read: “Members of the class of 2010 meet Kevin Nedd Nelson Ferreira up before the game (l. to r.) Tyler Rodrigues, Alexa Sandra Niccolai Jeffrey Gray Dell’Ermo and Melanie Weisman.” James O’Connor Michael Mandelbaum Photography in this issue by Becky Bedrosian P ’11 Robert J. O’Leary Richard Markham Elayne Wishart P ’01, Stephen Taylor Photography, Todd Ross ’94 Mark Paris Alex Cena and GSB staff unless otherwise noted. Marianne Saladino Jayne Vespa Cover: Commencement 2011 28 From the Headmaster

I am regularly asked by prospective students, parents, alumni, and people in the community, “So, what kind of school is Gill St. Bernard’s?” In my first few years as a new Headmaster at GSB, my typical response was to emphasize those things that made our school different from other schools in the area. However, I quickly learned that my focus on what was different, in and of itself, often seemed like an invitation for others to define us in a variety of ways, which were not always complimentary.

Gill St. Bernard’s, like all good schools, has evolved and changed in many aspects. The Gill School inhabited three different campuses before moving into Stronghold in the 1940’s. St. Bernard’s discontinued its boarding program in the 1960’s and in the early 1970’s the two schools merged. They then introduced the Unit Program, which we continue to offer although in a much condensed format. Finally, Gill St. Bernard’s School consolidated onto one campus here in Gladstone in the 90’s. Along with these changes, the programs we offer – classes, courses in the arts, expanded sports options and the community service program - have all changed as well.

These new initiatives in each area have been guided by the school’s core values and mission. Though the mission has been updated in its language and emphasis, our core values of respect, integrity, kindness and consideration for others remain very much the same. These values shape who we are and what we aspire to achieve as a school community. I would like to think that the various traditions that have developed over the years are a manifestation of these essential values.

Many things may have changed, and indeed for the better. Our beautiful campus and all of its buildings, our use of technology, the challenging academic program, competitive athletics, the arts and our commitment to serve others are each a source of justifiable pride for everyone in the GSB community.

Now in my eleventh year, when people ask me about our school, my response is quick and clear: Gill St. Bernard’s School is an exceptional school. Furthermore, I always follow up with an invitation to come see for themselves. Those who take me up on the offer are usually quite impressed by the evolution of the school and what it has become today. I am also pleased to say that the word is getting around that GSB is indeed, a truly special place.

For parents or alumni reading this, I encourage you, too, to extend an invitation to someone to visit (or visit yourself if you haven’t been to campus in a while). Having the chance to see Gill St. Bernard’s School as it is now will surely be worth it.Regards,

S.A. Rowell Headmaster

1 Feature

The Adventure is in the Volunteering: Daniel Gill ’05 and JohnPaul Dicks ’05

The scenario is familiar: two in their twenties decide to take a trip together to help “find” themselves.

But, instead of heading for a beach, Daniel Gill ’05 and JohnPaul (J.P.) Dicks ’05 wanted to make a difference somewhere in the world.

Gill was the first to head off on a trip to Tanzania several months after graduation from The College of New Jersey. As reported in the spring GSB (L. to r.) Daniel Gill ‘05 and JohnPaul Dicks ’05 with a group of children in Punta Gorda, Belize. Magazine, he worked for 10 months in an orphanage before returning home. Here he connected with his friend from high school days and the two began to explore the possibilities of volunteering in Belize. “We talked about GSB Alumni: traveling to Central America, but since we do not speak Spanish, Belize was an easy choice,” remarked Dicks.

The Real World GSB’s motto, “The World is Our Classroom,” made a strong impression By Kathleen Andersen on both young men, and they were determined to implement it in their While the economic outlook for those joining the lives. “We heard a lot about this while workforce for the first time is not encouraging we were at GSB,” said Gill. “But it wasn’t these days, the reports are not dampening the until graduating from college that we enthusiasm of the GSB alumni in these stories. could absorb it into our lives.” For Dicks, there was an element of intrigue They are finding their own directions, interests as well. “I was no longer satisfied to and abilities — and making contributions to the simply listen to stories about amazing world around them along the way. trips and adventures. I wanted to jump into the action,” he said. Their stories illustrate their different approaches Gill and Dicks traveled to the small to the challenging world they are facing and town of Punta Gorda, where they were how they are coping with that world. introduced to the Toledo Ecotourism

2 FEATURES

Association (TEA), a sustainable out what other native peoples did the theory behind the old saying, tourism operation designed to insure when these big firms came in, and “Give a man a fish and feed him for the integrity of the local environment, help SATIIM develop strategy for a day; teach him to fish and feed the people and their culture. It is working with local communities,” him for life.” managed solely by indigenous Mayan he said. While the future of Belize’s people to benefit local communities. Mayans is still uncertain, Dicks and Although both young men would This organization immediately Gill feel confident that they made a like to eventually continue to captured their imaginations and it small but meaningful contribution work in third world countries, they are taking some time to digest what became their mission to help out in to the national struggle for personal they’ve learned, and to arrange ways suited to their talents. rights and fair compensation. future financing. Gill had studied computer science The experiences of the three months at The College of New Jersey and spent in Belize profoundly affected Dicks was a philosophy major the two friends. Sports Story: and environmental science minor Rick Laughland ’04 Dicks claimed that he learned at Franklin & Marshall College. how to interact with many different Rick Laughland ’04 lives, breathes “TEA’s advertising materials were in and talks sports. And because of this shambles,” said Gill, “so J.P. and I put kinds of people and how to be more passion, he has his fingers in many together brochures and , flexible. “I would have liked to see sports-related pies. updated the website (which will soon some concrete results. However, I go live), networked and managed believe we took TEA one step further.” At the moment, this ambitious young daily operations. Both young men Gill says he learned to persevere man writes and co-hosts a live pod- also represented TEA in meetings even when the going gets tough and cast for the Green and White Report, with the Belize Tourism Board. it seems as if nothing will get done. (www.nyj.scout.com), an online “And I definitely am more appre- branch of Fox Sports. Here he covers Dicks, who was also working with ciative of the things we have at the New York Jets, interviewing another grassroots organization called home than I was before.” players, giving pre-game reports and SATIIM (Sarstoon Temash Institute for post-game analysis. Indigenous Management), researched Dicks is currently pursuing work in ways to facilitate negotiations between the sustainabilty field and dreams of He also has his own sports blog, www. the Mayans and an oil company becoming an architect. Gill, on the fansfavorite.com, where he comments which is proposing to drill on com- other hand, has developed an interest on many different sports, with an munity land. “I was asked to find in participatory rural development— emphasis on football.

Maya “Deer Dance” during Maya Day celebration in Blue Creek Village , Belize. Rick Laughland ’04

3 College Corner

Therese (TT) Dechent ’09: Artistic Vision

While some artists struggle for years to sell their work, Therese (TT) He will also be heading up the public relations Dechent ’09 has sold her first piece while still a sophomore in college efforts for Junior Rank, an organization that is and has had several others in gallery exhibitions. creating a high school football All-American Bowl The Marywood junior is a graphic arts major and a Game sponsored by the Marine photography minor who in her spare time creates bricolage. This is Corps. He will be helping to launch the first art made from things that happen to be available for free or very game on January 3, 2012 in Phoenix, Arizona. low cost, including items such as string, recycled paper, etc. This past year, two of her pieces were featured in art shows in Scranton, “Sports are simply my calling,” he said. “I’ve Pennsylvania. A small store, Greenbeing, featured art made from always gravitated toward them. I knew one way or recycled and found materials last spring, including a bricolage another I wanted to build my career in this field. from Dechent. And an Artworks Gallery show, “Diverse-City,” chose I’ve studied the business side of sports — it’s a a piece from Dechent made of broken eggshells with butterflies multi-billion dollar industry—and I’m convinced hatching from them. more than ever it’s where I want to be.” “It was so exciting when my bricolage of the Indian god Ganesh sold the first night of the show,” she said. GSB will be benefitting from Laughland’s devotion to sports: he has been named the But Dechent doesn’t focus on art alone. “I also like graphic design new Sports Information Director for the school because you can be an illustrator one day and work on a website and will write articles for various publications the next. I like the variety,” she explained. including the Booster Newsletter. “As a Gill This past summer Dechent had an internship with GraficaGroup, a alumnus, I’m thrilled to be working with the design firm in Chester, N.J. Here she learned about the business side school’s athletic department, the very place I of graphic design as well as getting the chance to try her hand at developed my passion,” he said. Laughland actual commercial design. also plans on placing an occasional story about GSB on www.scout.com, as well as exploring “This year is Grafica’s 25th anniversary and I helped work on a logo for the celebration,” she said. She helped update the firm’s opportunities to promote Gill’s athletic programs. page, using her photography skills to take photos for the site, posting In his spare time, Laughland is helping Sports them and updating the photo albums. She also increased the number Health Network, a company preaching the of people who “like” the page—which was important for Grafica’s marketing. Along the way she learned that “Facebook is the hottest importance of concussion prevention, diagnosis media outlet right now for certain types of businesses to use— and treatment. “A former professor of mine something I didn’t know,” she explained. at Fairleigh Dickinson University started this initiative and it’s a hot button issue for athletes Dechent’s big interest at the moment is in packaging design. “My at all levels,” he said. favorite is the Victoria’s Secret perfume packaging. I’d love to be able to do something like that.” Laughland’s long-range plans are to have his When she returns to school in the fall, Dechent will take a heavy own sports-related company where he can load of art classes each day as well as design courses. She will use his MBA in Entrepreneurial Studies also work in the library. earned from the Rothman Institute of Entrepreneurship and his Masters So what will she do for fun? “Scranton has a First Friday—a Certificate in Sports Administration night when all the galleries feature new artwork and small from Petrocelli College, both part of shows. It is my favorite day of the month. A group of Fairleigh Dickinson University. friends and I will go downtown to visit the galleries and see what’s happening.” While at GSB Laughland was a Dechent credits GSB Upper School art teacher Oscar three-sport athlete. While his Beck and Jane Kunzman, chair of the fine arts depart- first love was ; ment, with being tremendous influences to her pursuit of he played soccer in the a career in some form of art. When she graduates with fall and devoted himself a BFA in design, she is hoping to turn her passion for to golf in the spring. all things related to art into a career in design.

~ KMA

4 Therese (T.T.) Dechent ’09.

. FEATUREs

First, a few numbers: that our approach is to help students know how to ask the right questions, When Rowell came to GSB in 2001, as opposed to focusing solely on the the school enrolled 559 students; that ‘right’ answers.” number was 648 in 2006 and 708 in 2010. The Upper School alone Careful development of the has increased enrollment from 134 curriculum is critical to the growth students in 2001 to 308 during the of any Pre-K through high school 2010-2011 school year. institution, and requires vigilance, foresight and hard work on the part In 2001 the endowment for the of administrators and teachers. What school was $387,000. By 2007, it once was acceptable practice may had grown to $3,800,000. Today it not be just a few years . It calls stands at $6,800,000. Much of this for coordination between divisions growth has been in support of and integration of the ever-growing need-based financial aid. role of technology in . To More than 25 faculty and staff mem- these ends, over the last five years Sid Rowell: A bers have been added since 2000. two critical positions have been Decade at GSB created – a director of studies and a Over $20 million has been spent director of academic technology— It was 10 years ago this summer to upgrade and enhance the and have been filled by Peter Schmidt that Gill St. Bernard’s welcomed campus over the past 10 years. An and Michael Chimes. There is now Sid Rowell as Headmaster. He is addition to Conover in 2002, the constant review of how curricula the school’s 23rd headmaster, the construction of the Athletic Center in the three divisions support each fifth since the merger in 1972. The in 2004, Hockenbury Academic other, and how technology can summer, 2006 issue of the GSB Center in 2009 and the Todd Quad enhance the learning environment for Magazine did an extensive story on in 2011 were all major additions to teachers and students alike. Teacher Rowell’s first five years and his vision the school’s facilities. Every single evaluations give valuable feedback, for the future. Now, at the ten year building on campus has undergone and school-sponsored professional mark, it is time to reflect on what renovations since Rowell arrived. technology training has been has taken place at GSB during the Extensive landscaping projects and provided. past decade. improvements to the athletic fields have been made and have positively The strength of GSB’s academic Rowell refuses to take sole credit for contributed to the appearance and program is reflected in the fact any of the improvements to campus enhanced the programs and function- that the number of colleges and and the school. Rather, he adamantly ality of spaces throughout campus. that our students attend credits a joint effort led by “a truly has grown as the classes have increased fabulous group of trustees. I’ve However, such numbers do not in size, and include some of the most also been blessed to work with a tell the entire story. For example, competitive schools in the country. remarkable administrative team as the academic program has seen the “Our students want choices, whether well as a gifted faculty and staff,” number of Advanced Placement they might be Ivy League schools he added as he discussed some of and Honors courses grow, as well or large, state universities across the the many changes to the school — as the improvement of the students’ country,” Rowell believes. “A strong changes that encompass all aspects performance on AP tests. “At the academic background and balanced of school life. “From academics, the same time, we have not lost sight of extracurricular opportunities prepare campus, the arts and athletics to the fact that our program is so much our students to succeed in any enrollment and sustainability of the more than just AP courses,” said higher education environment. More school—success has many mothers Rowell. “The use of Harkness tables important, those same students are and fathers,” he said. throughout the Upper School shows leaving Gill with the necessary self-

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confidence needed to thrive during the next chapter in their lives.”

The school has become an athletic powerhouse in Somerset County and the state over the past decade, winning three state championships (Girls in 2007, Boys Soccer in 2009 and Girls Track in 2011). Six times teams have reached Somerset County championship games, coming out victorious in three (Girls Basketball in 2009 and 2010 and Boys Basketball in 2011). Gill is the smallest school to ever win a Somerset County championship title in a team sport. In addition, GSB students have been ranked first in league, county and the state in individual sports such as tennis and track. In 2009, the school transitioned into the Skyland Conference which includes all public and private high schools in Somerset,

Hunterdon, and Warren Counties. Chairman of the Board of Trustees John Howard presents Headmaster Sid Rowell with Since that time, GSB has won nine a proclamation from the Board recognizing ten years of service. Skyland division titles.

Other recent athletic achievements has added a number of choral groups Bormann Paris ’11 winning the best are too numerous to mention but as interest and talent emerge from actor award for his portrayal of Fred are reflected in the fact that since the lower grades. The Upper School Graham/Petruchio in Kiss Me Kate. 2007, five varsity teams have choir is larger than ever with Honors Numerous nominations and awards been ranked in the “top-20” in Choir and other specialty groups for lead actor, costume design and New Jersey, a state with over 450 becoming large parts of the semester many other categories have also high schools. Eight GSB coaches performances. In 2009 the choir recognized the quality of the overall have earned “Coach-of-the-Year” competed in a national competition theater experience at GSB. honors from various media outlets. in Washington D.C. and placed First. Rowell noted, “David Pasquale has Under Rowell’s leadership, GSB has done an outstanding job as our Middle and Upper School artists also made a strong commitment to Athletic Director.” have also been chosen to display sustainability and protecting the work at County art competitions, environment. The recycling of all The arts certainly don’t play second receiving numerous accolades as a paper, plastic and cans takes place fiddle to athletics. Over the last result. In 2008 GSB’s production of throughout the campus. All classroom decade participation in theater and The Secret Garden, directed by Paul buildings have motion-activated lights music, as well as the fine arts, has H. Canada, was named the best high in the classrooms, high efficiency grown exponentially, as increased school musical in New Jersey in the heating systems with the newer ones attention has been spent on offering Rising Star Awards competition of incorporating recycled materials, quality opportunities for students the Paper Mill Playhouse in Millburn, EnergyStar fixtures and many more who love the arts. Middle School followed in 2010 by Christian “green” features. In addition, solar

6 FEATURES

panels have been placed on the roof proclamation which said in part, upgrading the phone system, with of the Athletic Center, providing “The Board of Trustees extends to additional changes in the works.” power for that building and the old Sidney A. Rowell its utmost gratitude gymnasium, as well as allowing energy and appreciation for his unwavering The first floor of Founders Hall to be sold back to the grid. devotion and 10 years of service to is currently being renovated to the school.” create two art studios and gallery Community Service activities have space. This is in preparation for continued to be critical in the life of Rowell reiterated that he is just one an addition that will add a third art students. Most recently these have part of a great team. “It’s been my studio and increased dining space been manifested in the revived GSB privilege to work with Board Chairs to the building. The new wing will Farm. A two acre plot is currently Joe Behot, Brandon Clark and John allow for additional serving areas providing fruit and vegetables for the Howard. They each had a different in the main dining room, and free dining room and saving over $400.00 style, but were (and are) steadfast in up space for a dishwasher unit and a week in food costs. Surplus their belief in the school and in their storage so that paper and plastic produce is being donated to Matheny support for me.” utensils and plates can be eliminated. Medical and Educational Center in Gladstone, as well as being made Rowell and his team still have many What’s in store over the next several available to the public at a small farm plans for the school. “Currently we years? Rowell contemplates this table on the campus. In addition are investing more than $400,000 question and then offers, “We are the Unit program offers local, in technology initiatives throughout always evaluating our programs, regional, national and international the campus. We will have a totally seeking to improve in every area, opportunities in community service wireless campus by fall, and have especially in our curriculum and more so than ever before. bought all new iMacs for Lower and the physical plant. We constantly Middle School faculty, as well as the ask ourselves, ‘What will enhance At a recent trustee/faculty/staff new Middle School computer lab. the educational experience of our gathering, the Board of Trustees We are also installing new servers students?’ Our goal is to prepare presented Rowell with a special utilizing Blade technology and them for college and to be life-long learners; our work is never finished.”

Some specific plans include a new turf field for varsity athletics which will also be an all-season outdoor option for physical education; a meeting space and library for the Middle School; and a new Performing Arts Center. Referring to the latter, “We need this to not only showcase our talented student body, but to have a venue to bring speakers and others to campus who can enrich the lives of students, teachers, parents and alumni,” said Rowell.

Sid Rowell’s installation as Headmaster of Gill St. Bernard’s, 2001.

7 GSB NEWS

Commencement Seventy-four seniors took their places in the longest GSB Commencement procession in recent history on June 11.

In spite of the threatening rain, two bagpipers, two flag bearers and the School Marshall (Peter Schmidt, director of studies) led the graduates in a procession down Alumni Walkway and up to the Athletic Center. The seniors were joined in their journey by trustees, administrators and faculty, who all then assembled for what was only the second GSB Commencement to be held indoors in the combined school’s history.

The expanded procession was just one of the new traditions which were added to Commencement this year. Others 2011 included honoring parents whose children had been students at GSB since Pre-kindergarten, Kindergarten or First Grade along with their children; recognizing Cum Laude graduates for their academic achievement and good character; acknowledging members of the Honor Board; and assembling as a group in the Todd Quad.

Once everyone was seated in the Athletic Center, the Reverend Kent R. Walley, , St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, Gladstone, gave the Invocation and the Benediction, and Headmaster Sid Rowell welcomed parents and guests to the ceremonies. In a slight variation to the usual presentation of yellow roses to seniors, which symbolize attendance at GSB since pre-school, this Due to rain, the group assembled year the parents were called forward in the Athletic Center. to receive the roses, while the seniors received a GSB keychain.

8 the magazine of Gill ST. Bernard’s SCHOOL

Christian Bormann Paris, Katelyn Victoria Bernardo accepted Carbone, Christopher Coscia, the Lindabury Senior Honor from Headmaster Sid Rowell. Matthews Harris, Geoffrey King, This award was voted by the Matthew Lindquist, Alexander under classmen for the senior Markham, Meaghan Moriarty, Sarah who most positively affected their experiences. Morris, Shannon Murphy, Kendall Murtha, Timothy O’Leary, Anthony Sherman accepted Petrilli, Ryan Polachi, Jeffrey Roland, the Computer Science Rachel Sherman, Elizabeth Swartz Department Award from department chair Irv Taylor. and Zachary Zirpolo and their The award is new this year. parents received the roses and gifts.

Following the long-standing tradition of permitting any student who wishes to speak at Commencement to do so, eight students addressed the gathering this year. They were Stephanie Amoroso, Margaret Athletic Department Bedrosian, Alden Corbett, Geoffrey chair David Pasquale King, Sarah Morris, Chelsey Puglisi, presented Harold D. Mark Small and Elizabeth Swartz. Nicholls Memorial Awards The following students were jointly to Ryan (c.) and Connor Milanaik. recognized for serving on the Honor Connor was also the Board: Geoffrey King, Mark Small, recipient of the Julian Alexis Grieco and Alden Corbett. T. Brown Cup.

Cum Laude graduates were also recognized. These students, who must be in the top 20 percent of their class academically and have demonstrated good character, honor and integrity, were Brian Bernard, Katelyn Carbone, Alden Corbett, Geoffrey King, Matthew Lindquist, Sarah Morris, Kendall Murtha, Anthony Petrilli, Ryan Polachi, Ariel Quintana, and Zachary Zirpolo.

In addition, this year marked the 20th anniversary of the presentation of the St. Bernard’s School Chair of Excellence in Teaching. Past recipients were called forward to be honored, as well as this year’s recipient. (See story on pg. 13)

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Dean of Students Gerry Cirillo congratulated Cornelius Arnett, the recipient of the Ferber Visual Arts Award.

Shannon Murphy received her diploma from Chairman of the Board John Howard P ’17,’21. Murphy was also the recipient of the Joyce Creasey Memorial Award for Women’s Athletics. Middle School teacher Jean Loizeaux and Headmaster Sid Rowell Upper School Director Sue presented the Jean Loizeaux Award Petrone presented the for the top academic record to Elizabeth Gill Girl Award to Eric Fagan. Fagan also received Alexis Grieco (c.), assisted the Frances Rohn Memorial in by last year’s recipient, Mathematics and the Carol J. Daina Raiffe ’10. Heaney Memorial Science Award.

Dr. Andrew Lutz, English teacher, congratulated Kendall Murtha for receiving the Peapack-Gladstone Award in English.

10 GSB NEWS

Jennifer Diamond, teacher, presented the World Language Department Award to Geoffrey King.

Brendan McLellan received the Bennett Service Recognition from Director of Studies Peter Schmidt.

Alden Corbett received the History Department Award from Dr. John Ripton, chair of that department.

Headmaster Sid Rowell recognized both students who attended GSB since pre- school and their parents during Commencement.

11 the magazine of Gill ST. Bernard’s SCHOOL College Choices Class of 2011

American University Stephanie Amoroso Arcadia University chose to perform a song Auburn University at Commencement. She also received the Bates College Lisa Schmidt Music Boston College (2) Award. Alexander Markham (c.) Bucknell University and Amanda Cullen Carnegie Mellon University accepted Susan H. Stover Awards for loyalty Colgate University and service to GSB from College of Charleston Headmaster Sid Rowell. College of St. Mary’s Maryland Drew University Drexel University Elizabethtown College Elon University Florida Southern University Franklin and Marshall College Furman University (4) George Washington University (3) Highpoint University (2) Indiana University Lehigh University Loyola University, Maryland (3) Muhlenberg College , Tisch School of the Arts (3) New York University Northeastern University (2) Oglethorpe University Penn State University (4) Rhode Island School of Design Rochester Institute of Technology (2) Salisbury School - PG year Southern Methodist University (3) St. Joseph’s University (2) Syracuse University (4) University of Alabama (2) University of Delaware University of Richmond (2) Villanova University (3) 12 GSB NEWS

Eighteen of the 20 recipients of the SBS chair were present at Commencement to receive commemorative medallions.

SBS Chair of Excellence in Teaching SBS Chair of Excellence in Each year the SBS Chair of Excellence in Teaching is given to a GSB Teaching recipient Robert Orr, teacher to recognize the outstanding contributions made to the Middle School mathematics teacher (seated) with lives of the students not only by that teacher, but also by all GSB Ronna Storm, former Upper teachers. The award was created by a group of SBS alumni who School English teacher and wanted to recognize how much their teachers meant to them by Headmaster Sid Rowell. honoring one current teacher at GSB each year.

his year marked the 20th grade (2006), Laurence Bostian, Upper the environment, “The world is his anniversary of the award, School science (2007), Ellen McCann, classroom and he’s making sure it Tand previous recipients were pre-school (2008), Denise Konner, is ours as well.” (student). recognized and presented with bronze Middle School language arts (2009) Orr joined GSB in 2003, coming medallions during the commencement and Ronna Storm, Upper School from a position as head of the Willow ceremonies. The following faculty English (2010). Kathy Maisano, Upper School in Gladstone, and prior to this, were present to receive these (year School English (1994) and Raph Hayes, as head of Riverstone Community in parenthesis denotes when person Middle School history (1995) could School in Boise, Idaho. He had also received SBS Chair): Jean Loizeaux, not be present. taught math at the Windward School Middle School mathematics (1992), The 2011 SBS chair was then in Santa Monica, California. Orr is Dr. John Ripton, Upper School history presented to Middle School math- firmly committed to conservation department chair (1993), Brett Mershon, ematics teacher Robert Orr. Last and heads up GSB’s Green Team. He Middle School social studies (1996), year’s recipient, former Upper School was instrumental in the creation of Irv Taylor, Upper School computer English teacher Ronna Storm, helped the GSB farm, and along with his science department chair (1997), Peggy present the award to Orr. In doing wife, Cynthia, an Upper School math Lowe, first grade (1998), Susan Rankin, so she shared some of the comments teacher, donated a greenhouse to kindergarten (1999), Sue Hone, third from the nominating letters: “He is that undertaking. grade (2000), Toni Brescher, Middle patient and knows how to talk to School science (2001), Barbara Ripton, students without making them feel Orr has a B.A. in from Upper School English department chair awkward.” (student); “He handled it Colorado College, an M.A. in (2002), Sara Swartz, third grade (2003), (a ‘bump’ in learning) with such ease Education from California State Elise Smith, kindergarten (2004), that everything was back to normal in University at Northridge and an Lennard Grabowski, Upper School no time.” (parent); and, referencing M.B.A. from the University of science (2005), Mary Tuohy, second his commitment to recycling and Southern California.

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Long-term members of the GSB Family Retire This past spring saw two long-term employees of the school retire - first grade teacher Peggy Lowe and general maintenance man Clayton Huff.

Lowe is retiring to Iowa, where she will spend time pursuing her quilting and bird watching hobbies. The final panel of the Upper School Unit: 2011 mural in Cox Lower School was painted in her honor, and features pictures of birds. The last weeks of May saw Upper School students exploring a variety of subjects outside their normal classroom experience as they once again took part in the tradition of GSB’s Unit.

Peggy Lowe, first grade teacher During this time of intensive study of one subject, various groups learned about Lowe joined GSB in 1985 and things as diverse as the nature of American culture, environmental stewardship in first worked on the Bernardsville the Great Swamp, mountain biking and campus. During her years at GSB, Tae Kwon Do. Several students learned she made many contributions how to write “apps” for Apple computers; to the curriculum, including others set up a restaurant business. One introducing the Reading Rodeo Clayton Huff, general group learned about the world of sports and the first grade study of birds operations person broadcasting, with help from pros like Kevin (which includes many visits to the Burkhardt, SNY Mets reporter, Bruce Beck of Clayton Huff joined GSB in bluebird nesting boxes sprinkled News 4 New York, David Tyree, former NY 1984 to do general maintenance throughout campus.) She was Giant, and others. very active with community on the Bernardsville campus and service projects at the Lower has lent his hand to everything Some students learned about School, and coordinated the soup from carpentry to plumbing, occupational, speech and physical and sandwich preparation for the electrical work, and painting therapy while designing activities for Plainfield Senior Citizen’s Center since then. A skilled woodworker, physically disabled young people. Another each month. Many alumni should Huff took apart the floor in the group helped out in numerous areas from be familiar with Lowe because Chapel, numbered each board, senior citizens’ homes to hospitals to animal shelters. One Unit course studied the for the past two decades she has removed the nails, refinished the independent music scene, while another calligraphied every GSB diploma boards and reinstalled them. He learned if animals could be “taught.” – including those of her children, also restored and renovated the Major off-campus trips involved travel to Matthew ’95 and Chandra ’02. porch of Founders Hall. Vancouver, Montreal and the Southwest, Huff plans to devote most of where students learned about the Navajo his time in retirement to his Long Walk. (For a sampling of the students’ ministry, Brothers in Christ, experience, see http://newjerseyhills.com/ in which he visits and sings frame/?s=gillstbernardsschool.blogspot. at nursing homes throughout com&h=2000.) A group of students also Hunterdon County, N.J. traveled to the Dominican Republic to help at an orphanage.

Above: Students in the Environmental Science Unit build a track trap in the Great Swamp.

14 GSB NEWS

GSB Students Support Service Efforts

This year, events around the world and at home inspired many outreach projects. We mention just a few below.

Japan After much deliberation on the best way to provide assistance to those in need in Japan, students in the Middle and Upper Schools collected new socks and wrote per- sonal letters of hope to survivors who remained in shelters in the region “A Little Night Music” Strikes the Right Chord of Japan struck by the earthquake and tsunami. Additionally, Middle School students raised more than Steven Sondheim’s “A Little Night Music” wowed audiences $2,200 in a coin drive, Upper School during its four day run from March 31 to April 3. The GSB Players once again gave stellar performances in this tale of passion, confusion, and students held a car wash in conjunc- romantic pain which, nevertheless ends happily. The scene was 19th tion with Reunion 2011 and sold Century Sweden. The play was directed by Paul Canada, fine arts “credit cards” in a colorful design department chair, with musical direction by Amy and David Southerland, by sophomore Alekzandra Jackson- Middle School and Upper School chorus teachers respectively, and Rakovsky which entitled purchasers choreography by Margery Schiesswhol, theater teacher. to make selections at the Student Café and Bookstore, with a few dollars from each card going to earthquake and tsunami relief. The students also wrote cards and Senior Awarded letters to the troops. Alabama GSB basketball Corporate-Sponsored players who were participating in a Relay for Life This year GSB Merit Scholarship tournament in Alabama during June, supported the American Cancer were joined by other GSB volunteers Society’s Relay for Life. On June 8, Senior Eric Fagan was awarded a to help with the recovery effort from more than 250 students, parents and National Merit Johnson & Johhnson the tornado in Tuscaloosa. The group teachers gathered on the soccer field Consumer Companies Scholarship packed clothes, cleaned up debris, to walk the night away. A DJ provided in the 56th annual National Merit and visited with the survivors. Even music, and there were food, games Scholarship program. He is one of after long days of work, the players and friendly competitions throughout only 1000 high school seniors who had plenty of energy for practice and the event. More than $33,000 was have won such an award, which to participate in the Alabama High raised to help support this cause. are financed by 200 corporations, School Team Camp Tournament – company foundations and other which they won. Matheny School In April, a business organizations. group of GSB runners participated in Iraq and Afghanistan the annual Miles for Matheny 5K race. GSB students collected more than The race is part of a day of fundraising 150 soccer balls for “Kick for Nick,” and awareness-raising for the Matheny a program that sends the balls to Medical and Educational Center of soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan Gladstone. This year’s festivities took for distribution to local children. place in Natirar Park, Gladstone.

15 the magazine of Gill ST. Bernard’s SCHOOL

GSB Green Initiative Updates

Farm The GSB farm was planted with potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, herbs, fruits and flowers throughout the spring. Students from the Upper and Middle Schools helped with preparing the soil, picking out rocks and sowing the seeds. The farm was harvested throughout the summer and the vegetables that were used to supplement the summer camp lunches saved the school $400 a week. GSB students will also benefit from the produce in the fall.

In addition, a swarm of bees settled on campus in May. Unfortunately, the spot they chose was a bit too close to the school buildings. A local beekeeper was called in to move them to a new hive on the GSB farm where they will help pollinate the blueberries, raspberries and garden vegetables. During the process, Lower and Middle School students had an impromptu lesson in apiology. GSB Juniors Recycling GSB recycled a ton (literally) of computers, printers, to New Jersey monitors, hard drives and other assorted electronic equipment this ’s summer. The electronic equipment was gathered into a central spot on campus by the IT department and recycled by Regentech, an Schools EPA-certified recycling company.

Motion Sensors In keeping with GSB’s commitment to creating GSB Juniors Kathryn Grabowski a green campus, motion sensors for classroom lighting were recently and Sarah Quinn have been installed in Cox Lower School. The main Upper, Middle and Lower accepted into two New Jersey School buildings now all have these lighting sensors, which turn Governor’s Schools. Grabowski will attend the School for the off lights when no one is in the classroom. Sciences at Drew University; Quinn will participate in the engineering program at Rutgers University. Grabowski was one of only 90 juniors selected statewide for the program in the sciences; Quinn was one of only 100 juniors chosen statewide for the engineering program.

The Governor’s School program, established in 1983 by Governor Thomas Kean, provides enrichment opportunities for Above: Upper School talented students. These young students help to plant people gather in a community the GSB farm. setting at a New Jersey college Top, right: Chef Anthony or university for three weeks of Flik Dining, who during the summer to immerse runs the GSB kitchen, themselves in a particular issue harvests lettuce during the summer. or course of study.

Right: Members of the (L. to r.) Kathryn Grabowski ’12 Tech Department with and Sarah Quinn’12 the ton of hardware they collected to recycle.

16 Alumni News Coming Back to GSB Alumni Reunion 2011 was a perfect blend of renewed friendships, good food, great music and beautiful spring weather. There was something for everyone during the weekend, from a golf outing on Friday at Fox Hollow Golf Club, to a clambake, complete with live music, on Saturday. There were games for the kids and an alumni/ faculty game for the adults. Yearbooks and other memorabilia was on display throughout Saturday and teachers were on hand to visit with their former students. Shown here are some photos from the day.

Clockwise from top: The class of 1991 gathered in front of the Chapel during Reunion: (front row, l. to r.) Nadine Petronoko Lin, Jennifer Emmit Nowack, Joanna Simonelli Varholak, Caroline Weber Ruiz, Jamal Walden; (back row, l.to r.) Randall Lee, Page Tomblin, Nicole Vormschlag James, Doug Paluck. Members of the class of 1976 celebrated their 35th Reunion: (l. to r.) Dave Hickok, Debby Goldman, Ken Yanow, James Maynard, Ellen Wulfhorst. Kyle O’Neill ’08 shows off his year- book, while George Fessenden ’39 (middle) and Dan Herr ’84 look over older archives. Clockwise from top: Alumni challenged the faculty to a softball game on Saturday afternoon. (Front row, l. to r.) Michael Chimes, director of academic technology, Peggy Campbell-Rush, Lower School director, Todd Ross ’94, Andrew Vazzano ’06, James Palatini ’06, Greg Washburn, Upper School math; (back row, l. to r.) Kris Goodrich ’99, Adam Desiderio ’01, John Szlasa ’01, Jonathan Bocina ’01, Gerry Cirillo, dean of students, Bob Ort ’89, Kyle O’Neill ’08. Representatives from the class of 2001 celebrated their 10th reunion during Reunion 2011: (l. to r.) John Szlasa, Chris Barback, Jaime Messina Goodrich, Jonathan Bocina, Jeffrey Ludlum, Erin Brooks, Adam Desiderio.

Randy Lee and Joanna Simonelli Varholak from the class of 1991 greeted each other during Friday night’s gathering. Alumni from the early Eighties enjoyed reconnecting: (l. to r.) Larry Enzer ’84, Rebecca Enzer Keller ’81, Ken Nemlick ’80 and Chris Burt ’81.

Clockwise from top: The children of alumni enjoyed the miniature golf course. Dan Herr ’84 shows his wife, Kay, and daughter Elizabeth some of the school archives from the Eighties. Chris Burt ’81 took time to enjoy the king crab legs at the clambake. Alumni from all eras enjoyed getting together at Reunion. Shown here, (l. to r.) Lynette Hamara and her son, Josh Creter ’96 and Holly and James Maynard ’76. Alumni enjoyed the beautiful spring evening on campus Clockwise from left: The class of 2006 enjoyed the clambake: (seated, l. to r.) Ashley Nedd, Lindsay Molin, Tara Babcock, Sam Carmel, Mike Logan, Alex Raymond, James Palatini; standing (l. to r.) Headmaster Sid Rowell, Andrew Vazzano. The picnic under the tent was a highlight of Reunion. Nicole Vormschlag James ‘91 and her husband look over her yearbook. Children danced to The Troublemakers while their parents visited. Alumni enjoyed a day of friendly competition during the annual Alumni Golf Outing at Fox Hollow Country Club in Branchburg, N.J. Shown, (l. to r.) Christopher Sameth ’89, Megan Clark ’02, Kristopher Goodrich ’99, Nick Patton ’93, Todd Ross ’94, John Kirkpatrick ‘79, and Brian Kirkpatrick ‘81.

20 Alumni Leadership and GSB’s Future

On the Saturday morning of Alumni Weekend, May 7, approximately twenty-five alumni came together with many GSB administrators and

members of the development office Alumni from SBS, Gill and GSB gathered during Reunion 2011. Shown (l. to r.) to discuss the establishment of an David Hickok ’76, John Giordano ’79, Judith Fulton Higby ’65, Amy Storm Melick ’85, Fred Engelberger ‘71, and George Fessenden ’39. Alumni Council. Ethan Dubow, director of alumni relations, planned plans of the school. Headmaster Second, the meeting provided a the event. Sid Rowell offered a broad and forum for the alumni to discuss The group included alumni from informative perspective of the openly the opportunities they see across the country who have been school’s history and future plans, for an Alumni Council, and the involved with GSB in various ways with an emphasis on the roles impact it could have in promoting over the years, and who were invited alumni can and must play in more involvement among the to attend the meeting. The Gill their implementation. Other areas alumni community as a whole. School, St. Bernard’s School, and Gill covered were college guidance (Kerri It was also an opportunity for St. Bernard’s were all well represented Small, director), Upper School those present to voice their ideas among the group. (Sue Petrone, director), community regarding initiatives the school service (Peter Schmidt, director of could implement to benefit the The discussion served two primary studies and community service), alumni and keep them engaged. purposes. First, it provided an oppor- academic technology (Michael tunity for the alumni in attendance to Chimes, director), and admissions There are plans underway to move hear from administrators who spoke (Karen Loder, director). Although forward with the establishment of about their respective departments. Dave Pasquale (director of athletics) the alumni council, and to hold the The information was designed to was unable to attend the meeting, first official meeting in the fall. update the alumni on the recent he provided a written update for the history, current state, and future athletics department.

Alumni Council meeting attendees: (l. to r.) Peggy Fisher Oakes ’63, Sue Rowley Swenson ’66, George Fessenden ’39, James Maynard ’76, Kyle O’Neill’08, Christopher Burt ’81, James Palatini ’06, Fred Engelberger ’71, Michael Freeland ’59, Andrew Vazzano ’06, Amy Storm Melick ’85, Judith Fulton Higby ’65, Josh Creter ’96, Rob Sameth ’89, Julie Boynton ’63, John Giordano ’79, Andrea Freeman ’95, David Hickok ’76, Matthew Clark ’94, Todd Ross ’94, Tammy Skuraton ’90, Robert Ort ’89. Attending via phone were David Oakley ’47, George Swain ’83 and Kristen Simonelli Doggett ’94.

2721 Athletics

This spring was an historic season for GSB. An unprecedented number of team and individual state, conference and county titles were won including a New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) championship and first-ever titles for a female runner in two sprint events in the Somerset County tournament.

Track and Field Boys Tennis At the Prep B championships, the team won individual honors The GSB boys varsity tennis team (See story on pg. 23 highlighting in three of the five flights. William completed the best season in its the girls track and field team.) Ullrich ’11 was the second singles history with a 14-2 record and added champion, while Benjamin Weber The boys track and field team another Prep B Championship to its ’11 and Matthieu Rafizadeh ’11 and was Prep B runner-up this spring résumé. The Knights also claimed the Ryan Osterman ’13 and Matthew and five boys qualified for the Skylands Conference crown for the Brookman ’12 claimed the first prestigious Meet of Champions: second consecutive season. and second doubles championships. Connor Milanaik ’11 (javelin, 4 x The squad finished the season 400m relay), Ryan Milanaik ’11 ranked 18th in the state. (discus, high jump, 4 x 400m relay) Matthews Harris ’11 (high jump), Softball Templeton Timothy ’11 (4 x 400m relay) and Alden Corbett ’11 The GSB softball team, under the (4 x 400m relay.) pitching of Nicolette Miranda ’12, won its first Prep B championship this spring. The Knights played a very aggressive schedule and

Above: Shannon Murphy ’11 Above: Nicolette Miranda ’12 heads for the finish line. steals second. Top, center: Matthews Harris ’11 Left: Benjamin Weber ’11 returns concentrates on his landing. a volley at the net.

22 ATHLETICS

also claimed their first Skyland Conference schedule, the Knights Conference divisional crown. Their set a new record for most wins in 18-8 record was the most wins in a season. The squad also made its school history. The offense was paced first ever appearance in the Prep B by Alana Noll ’12 who led the team tournament, where it lost a heart- in batting average (.450) and stolen breaker (3-1) to Rutgers Prep. The bases (25). Katelyn Carbone ’11 Knights also made a determined run anchored the defense as catcher. deep into the NJSIAA tournament, Girls Track and making it to the sectional semi-finals Field Wins State The highlight of the season came for the first time in school history. Championship when GSB defeated four-time state Pitcher Zachary Racusin ’11 led champion Rutgers Prep 5-2 in the the team in hitting (.509), while Prep B semi-final. catcher Alexander Markham ’11 led in RBI’s (28) For the first time in school history the GSB girls track Golf team won the New Jersey The GSB varsity baseball team State Interscholastic Athletic completed a historic season with an For the second consecutive season, Association (NJSIAA) Non- impressive 17-10 record. Despite the boys varsity golf team won Public B State Championship. a tough and demanding Skyland the Valley Division of the Skyland The Knights were led by Conference. Stand-out John Shannon Murphy ’11 who Murphy ’13 tied for the individual took gold in the 400m and championship in the conference Kathryn Galli ’11 who won tournament. The Knights finished the triple jump. The 4 x 400m third in the Prep B and eighth in the relay team of Murphy, Galli, Somerset County Tournament. Sarah Quinn ’12 and Dana Klein ’14 also took first place. Because of their outstanding performance in the NJSIAA meet, the above athletes plus the following qualified for the prestigious Meet of Champions: Cassandra Mireski ’11 (triple jump), Emily Quinn ’13 (3200m) and Victoria Bernardo ’11 (javelin, discus, shot-put).

Above: Zachary Racusin ’11 The team claimed the Prep heads for third. B Championship and the Right: John Murphy ’13 Skyland Conference title assesses his putt. this spring. Murphy also won individual Somerset County titles as she doubled in the 100m and 400m races.

Doing a victory lap with their trophy are (l. to r.) Kathryn Galli ’11, Cassandra Mireski ’11 (hidden), Victoria Bernardo ’11, Dana Klein ’14, Madison Campbell ’12, Shannon Murphy ’11, Sarah Quinn’12, and 23 Emily Quinn ’13. the magazine of Gill ST. Bernard’s SCHOOL

Lacrosse Scholar Athletes Corbett, also an AP Scholar and an honor roll student, was a four- Several dedicated boy and girl Named by year letter winner and was part players have been working Somerset County of the varsity cross country, indoor very hard to lay the foundations for track and outdoor track teams. a new lacrosse team for the high Seniors Alden Corbett and Ariel He was a captain of all three teams school athletics program. While Quintana were named GSB’s as well. He was a member of the no matches were played, these Scholar Athletes for the 2010-2011 Honor Board and the Quill and enthusiastic athletes went through school year by Somerset County. Scroll Honor Society. He received the daily grind of improving Quintana, a National Hispanic the History Department Award fundamental skills to prepare for a Scholar, AP scholar with honor and at graduation. competitive season next spring. an honor roll student, was captain of the varsity cross country team Lower Schoolers this year. During her time on the Coaches meet Upper School team, she was a Meet of Champions Recognized by Athletes Qualifier and Honorable Mention Local Papers All-Area and First-Team All Three GSB coaches were named Varsity baseball players met with Conference, Prep B, and State (Non Coaches of the Year this past spring Lower School students during a Public). She received the George by state and local newspapers: Joe Welcome Wednesday last spring. Washington School of Engineering Beringhelli for softball by the Star Welcome Wednesdays are informal and Applied Science Medal and Ledger for Somerset County and interactions that take place during the Mt. Holyoke Book Award in the Courier News; Brad Greenman arrival time at the Lower School. her junior year. for baseball by the Star Ledger The younger students made the for Somerset County; and Dave older ones feel like real stars by deWolfe for track and field by requesting autographs! the Courier News.

24 Athletics

Tiffany Robers Sahaydak, Olympic gold medalist for soccer, spoke to Upper School students this spring.

Soccer Stars Visit GSB Eric LeGrand of Rutgers Speaks Tiffany Roberts Sahaydak, gold to Sports Broadcasting Unit medalist for soccer at the 1996 Summer Olympics and a World Cup champion, came to an assembly on Thursday, April 21, Injured Rutgers University football player Eric LeGrand where she encouraged Upper spoke to the Sports Broadcasting Unit this spring. School students to set goals and LeGrand, who was paralyzed from the neck down work towards them. Members of in a game against Army, answered probing questions the Sky Blue professional women’s from the students, as well as ones from NBC sports soccer team, which plays at personality Bruce Beck. This unit was studying the Rutgers, were also on hand and art of the sports interview. challenged GSB students to some fancy footwork. Eric LeGrand answered questions from students in the Sports Broadcasting Unit. Bruce Beck, sports anchor for WNBC News, is standing to his left.

The varsity baseball team with Lower School students.

25 Patrons

Auction/Dinner Dance Salutes New York

Guests at this year’s Auction/ Dinner Dance arrived at Hamilton Farm Golf Club in Gladstone in the mood to celebrate! The glamour and excitement of the “New York, New York!” theme ran through the evening, from the sophisticated decor, to the

Roger Edwards accepted the signature cocktails and gourmet Lindabury-Thomas Trustee Award for food. The silent auction (with his deceased wife, trustee Alberta bidding done electronically Edwards, from Chairman of the Board John Howard P ’17,’21. through iPads and cell phones), 50/50 raffle and Live Auction raised more than $200,000 for the school. There was also special Former Trustee Recognized with bidding on a “fund a need” Lindabury-Thomas Award item: sending GSB teachers to technology workshops during GSB established the Lindabury-Thomas the summer. Award to recognize and honor past trustees This year’s Auction/Dinner Dance for their dedicated service to the school. chairs (l. to r.) Tracy Silverschotz P’18,’18, Alberta (Bert) Edwards was presented this and Sarah Green P’20,’23. award posthumously in October, 2010 and her husband, Roger, was present at the faculty/staff/trustee dinner in May to accept the award in her name.

Edwards joined the board in 1973 and was an Honorary Trustee at the time of her death in 2010. She chaired the education and extracurric- ular committee for many years and took an active role in the programs at the school during her tenure. In the 1990s, Edwards was instrumental in taking a survey of one and five year alumni for several years to ascertain how their GSB education assisted them in college.

Edwards was the first female vice-president of Schering-Plough Corp. (now merged with Merck and Co., Inc.), and was active with many educational organizations throughout her life.

Above: Alberta (Bert) Edwards, GSB trustee 1973-2010.

26 PATRONS

Flagpole Placed Students explore the old part of Near Athletic Fields of Montreal during the 2011 Unit. If you can’t check the web, there will be another way to tell if there is a home varsity contest next fall – check to see if the flag is flying!

Thanks to the Markham family (P ’11,’12), GSB has installed a new flagpole in view of all the athletic fields. GSB security will raise a flag to denote all home varsity competitions beginning in the fall.

Tennis Courts Silverman Family Establishes Added Unit Scholarship Two tennis courts were installed on the campus this spring, bringing the total number The Kenneth and Claudia Silverman Family Foundation of courts to seven. The new has given Gill St. Bernard’s a generous donation to establish courts will provide additional an endowment for Unit Scholarships. Details on how the room for the Upper and Middle need-based scholarships will be distributed are being School tennis programs, allow finalized but qualifying students will need to apply and for simultaneous JV and varsity write an essay as part of the process. competitions to take place, and According to Britany Silverman Nelson ’97, who manages provide practice courts and room the family foundation, “The Unit program at Gill has always for physical education classes. been a part of the school that has made it unique and makes Gill’s education philosophy, ‘The World is Our Classroom’ a Many members of the GSB reality. It is important that the Unit program continues to be community contributed to this offered and, most importantly, that it is available to students effort, which was led by support from all economic backgrounds. At least once during their from The F. M. Kirby Foundation, Upper School years, each student should have the ability the Polachi Family (P ’08,’11,’14), and opportunity to experience their first choice of a Unit, the Roll Family (P ’10). Other regardless of their financial capabilities.” significant help came from the Dey Family (P ’11,’13), the “We hope to continue raising funds for this endowment among the alumni community.” said Jim Diverio, director Clayton Family (P ’14), the Dunn of external affairs. “Britany and the Silverman’s hope to Family (P ’12,’14) and the GSB challenge alumni to match their gift and help more students Booster Club. reap the benefits that this unique educational opportunity provides.” The school will be working with the family to provide the opportunity for further growth of this scholarship fund over the coming months.

27 the magazine of Gill ST. Bernard’s SCHOOL

Todd Quad Dedicated

Todd Quad was formally dedicated on May 11. Headmaster Sid Rowell extolled the importance of Todd Quad to Gill St. Bernard’s. “It has long been an architectural concept of colleges and universities to have a center, quad or pedestrian mall which would be a place for students to congregate, provide a setting for concerts, speeches and other events,” he said. “This was a feature we lacked. The completion of Hockenbury defined such a space and gave us a real opportunity to design an area that the entire school can use.”

Rowell then recognized Susan and Richard Markham P ’11,’12 for their support of the project, as well as Donald Fuentes P ’14,’16,’24 whose company, Aspen Landscaping Contracting, provided the plantings throughout the area.

Above: Getting ready for the celebrations.

Above: Gathering for the dedication of Todd Quad.

Right: Dan (l.) and Barbara Todd P ’15,’16,’16 (r.) cut the ceremonial ribbon as Headmaster Sid Rowell (c.) looked on. In the background are (l. to r.) Donald Fuentes P ’14,’16,’24, representatives from Wicklow and Laurano Inc., contractors for the project, and Susan and Richard Markham P ’11,’12.

28 PATRONS Retiring Trustees

Five trustees stepped down from the board this spring after many years of service.

Brandon Clark P ’02,’06 first served on the board from 1996 through 2002, and rejoined in 2005. During his first term, he was chair of the development committee and had an important leadership role in the Expectations of Excellence campaign which, among other things, resulted in building the Athletic Center. During his second term, he was named Chairman of the Board in 2007. Under his leadership, GSB successfully completed the Building an Enduring Legacy campaign which included the construction of Hockenbury Academic Center.

Nelson Ferreira P ’12,’14,’15 joined the board 2002. He served on the buildings and grounds committee and supported the school significantly during his tenure. His company, Ferreira Construction, Inc., took an active role in the site work for Hockenbury Academy Center, reconstructed the bridge by the stables, and helped with snowplowing and unexpected emergencies. He was also instrumental in putting together a plan for the school to partner with Vanguard Energy Partners to install solar panels. The following three trustees had all joined the board in 2005.

Michael Mandelbaum P ’13,’15 was a member and then chairman of the buildings and grounds committee during the time that saw the building of Hockenbury Academic Center and Todd Quad. He spent countless Rowell called Barbara and Dan Todd hours overseeing these work sites, as well as P ’15,’16,’16, the primary benefactors of other maintenance projects on campus. the project, to come forward for the official ribbon cutting. Dan thanked the school for Mark Paris P ’11 was a member of the finance the wonderful job it does, and for “providing committee and eventually became its chair. Barbara and me a chance to give something During this time of major construction and back – something that the entire school can renovation, he helped to keep the school on an use for a long time.” even financial keel through the many hours he Todd Quad is a 17,741 sq. ft. open area spent working with the board. between Hockenbury Academic Center, Founders Hall, and Conover which will be Richard Markham P ’11,’12 was also a member used for gatherings, casual conversation, of the finance committee. His commitment to classes, and Commencement. the growth of GSB during this time was reflected in the many projects he supported, most notably the renovation of the baseball field and the building of Todd Quad. “It has been my privilege to have worked with a few of these retiring trustees (Brandon Clark and Nelson Ferriera) since I came to GSB in 2001,” said Headmaster Sid Rowell. “Mark Paris, Michael Mandelbaum, and Dick Markham joined the Board in 2005 – a banner year for our school. We have been blessed by the service that 29 all five have given us over the years.” the magazine of Gill ST. Bernard’s SCHOOL

New Members of the graduate of Middlesex Community GSB Classic committee. He has a Board of Trustees College, N.J. He, his wife, Maria, B.A. from Bucknell University and and children Stephanie’14, Jacqueline an M.F.A. in acting from Columbia Harry Chowansky III P ’09,’13, ’16, and Isabella ’24 live in Basking University. He, his wife, Mandy, and ’15,’22 is the Ridge, N.J. two children, Allyson and Jacob, live vice-president of in Whitehouse Station, N.J. HC Constructors, Mary McNamara P ’16,’16,’20 has Inc., a civil been a long- Matthew Clark ’94 is the new construction time volunteer alumni repre- contracting at GSB, working sentative to the company based in Whitehouse with the Parent board. He is an Station, N.J. He and his wife, Lisa, Admissions equity research have been responsible for the Network and analyst at Keefe installation of sidewalks, retention on various fashion show and Bruyette & Woods, basins, a storm water filter chamber auction committees over the past Inc. in . He graduated and foundation work throughout the seven years. As Lower School room from Lehigh University in 1998. He GSB campus. He attended Rutgers parent chair, she assisted with Field has been an active and supportive University. The Chowanskys have Day and the annual Faculty/Staff alumnus for several years. He and his four children: Blair ’09, Margot ’13, Breakfast. This year she was chair wife, Candace Voorhees Clark ’94, have Corinne ’15 and Anna ’22. The family of the Parents’ Association and two children, Porter and Charlotte, lives in Califon, N.J. served as its representative to the and live in Mendham, N.J. board. McNamara has a B. A. from Donald Fuentes P ’14, ’16, ’24 the University of North Carolina at Jill Gateman P ’17, ’20 is the is the owner Chapel Hill and formerly worked Parents’ of Aspen in investment banking and bank Association Landscaping consulting. She, her husband, Dan, representative Contracting, and children Owen ’16, Declan to the board. Inc. of Union ’16 and Bronwyn ’20, live in She has served N.J. His firm Bernardsville, N.J. as the vice-chair has provided and planted hundreds of the Parents’ Association this past of trees and shrubs on campus over Todd Ross ’94 has been the alumni year, and as the Live Auction and the past few years. He is on the representative Luxury Raffle chairs in previous board of the Associated General to the board years. Gateman has also served on Contractors of New Jersey. Fuentes since 2008. He the board of Family Service of Morris is a retired police officer, who moves to full County and is currently employed by served as a delegate to the state trusteeship this PNC Bank as a senior vice-president Patrolmen’s Benevolent Association year. Ross is the in . She has a B.A. (PBA) for 10 years. In this position, assistant general manager of Fox in and finance from he was on the Legislative committee Hollow Golf Club in Branchburg, Douglass College/Rutgers University and co-chairman of the Attorney N.J., which has hosted the alumni and resides in Mendham, N.J. with General Law Enforcement Guideline golf outing for the past several years. her husband, Cameron, and their Procedures committee. Fuentes is a In addition, Ross has been on the children Cameron ’17 and Julie ’20.

“Fortunately, we have a talented group of parents and alumni stepping in to take the retiring trustees places,” said Headmaster Sid Rowell. “There is always ‘more to do’ in any school and Harry, Don, Mary, Matt, Todd and Jill bring a great deal of new energy and experience to the Board of Trustees. I am confident they will help us maintain our current momentum as Gill St. Bernard’s continues to move ahead.”

30 the magazine of Gill ST. Bernard’s SCHOOL

not a graduate of GSB, I attended the Middle and Upper Schools for seven years and look forward to reconnecting with old friends.”

Class of 1985 Michelle Simms Lyons updated us from Florida. She has a photography business taking family portraits, school photos, and weddings. The two tag lines she uses are, “Images that celebrate life,” and, “Lifestyle portraits that are anything but ordinary.” Her website is www. michellelyonsphoto.com. Michelle’s son Luke, 12 is sponsored by a (L. to r.) Tammy Skuraton ’90, Jill Ort-Haskell ’90 and Kim Upton-Frost Baldwin ’90 skateboarding company called F6 got together for a mini reunion in California. and he recently also competed in the national Scrabble® championships. the William Annin Middle School, The Nineties Her son Josh, 9 was recently accepted Bedminster, N.J. Amy writes, “After in the FC America Premier Soccer the on-campus festivities we went to Class of 1990 League on a scholarship and will the Long Valley Brew Pub and met up Congratulations to Jill Ort-Haskell travel throughout central Florida with Jeff Stessl and Mike Harwell who was recently married to P. competing. Michelle also has two ‘86. Jeff was married in December, Thomson (Thom) Haskell III. The younger children, Abi, 7 and Jude, 3. 2010, and my husband and I were wedding took place at the Spring Chrysta Morano Barnikel is living at the wedding. It was a beautiful Lake Golf Club in Spring Lake, N.J. in Charlotte, N.C. and is a mother of service in an old historic church, on May 21. Jill and Thom reside triplets! She also recently accepted a followed by a lovely reception in in Dana Point, Calif. Jill is working position with Bank of America. She is Red Bank, N.J.” Amy lives in Basking from home for Cengage Learning as looking forward to attending Alumni Ridge, N.J. with her husband, Jeff, a senior art director, and Thom is Weekend next year! and their two boys, Allen and Sawyer. working for Suzuki as their customer relations manager. It was a promotion Amy Storm Melick wrote in to Michelle Joy Howard is living in for Thom that landed them in update us on many of the classmates Henniker, N.H. with her husband, California just after the wedding. with whom she keeps in touch. She, Thomas and their three boys, She recently reconnected with friends Laura Ambielli-Langford, Laura Sam, Billy and Charlie. Michelle is in California. (See photos above Donahue Smith, Carol Layton currently working hard to open her and below.) Regner, Michelle Simms Lyons and own business. Peter Litkey all attended the Alumni Class of 1989 Weekend festivities on campus. Laura Ambielli-Langford lives in Suffolk, ’s filmPrince of Va. and works for Nationwide will be released on DVD and VOD Insurance. Laura Donahue Smith on October 18. Lee Daniels (director lives in Morristown, N.J. with her of Precious) presents the film, about husband, Roland and their three which more information can be children. Carol Layton Regner found at www.princeofbroadway. lives in Basking Ridge, N.J. with com. Sean is currently in her husband, Randy and daughter, working on a new feature film Abigail who just graduated from entitled Starlet. Jill Ort’90 and husband Thom Haskell.

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Language Interpreting. Jenni writes, “I will continue my love for working with young children and previous degrees (B.A. early childhood ed. and M.S. reading K-12) by tutoring and volunteering for child-centered organizations.” She also still enjoys figure skating, mountain biking, and has discovered an interest in playing .

Jordan Brehove graduated from a dual-degree program in May earning a masters in business administration from the Wharton School at University of Pennsylvania and a masters in public administration from the of (L. to r.) Allison Richards Bogart ’94, Hayden, Hazel, Holden Daniel and Mike Bogart. Government. He recently moved to New York City where he will begin Ocala, Fla. from Oldwick, N.J. for Class of 1996 working in supply-chain strategy consulting at Accenture. a position he obtained as an equine Jessica Ripton and her husband, veterinarian.” Kim continues to work Matt Perreault, welcomed a as a communication manager for son last April – Patrick John. The 21st Century MetLife and has been fortunate that Congratulations! they are allowing a work-at-home Class of 2001 arrangement since their move. She Class of 1998 Adam Desiderio was part of a team writes, “We love Ocala and already Jenni Schubert wrote to tell us of which took home an Emmy for found some new and old friends and her move to Westminster, Colo. Outstanding New Approaches in loved being welcomed to town by our from Ft. Myers, Fla. this summer to Sports Programming for XXI Olympic dear friend Megan McGuire ’94 who pursue a degree in American Sign Winter Games: The Science of Sports spends six months of the year in the area showing horses.” Speaking of horses, Kim was invited to serve as a member of the board of directors for the Marion Therapeutic Riding Association. The program offers therapeutic riding and equine-assisted activities to people of all ages who are challenged with a disability. Kim writes, “A lot going on but our friends at Gill are never far from our thoughts and we were grateful to be able to say goodbye to a few before our quick departure from New Jersey, including Greg Lewis ’93, Matt Chesman ’93, and their wives Lauren and Kate.” Fellow classmates at Byung-ki Jung’03’s wedding in Korea: (l. to r.) Justin Ages, Billy Young, Byung-ki, Ray Conger, Adam Aresty.

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fellowship, Nora plans to return to the to complete a Ph.D. in epidemiology. Alumni at graduation.

Class of 2006 From May 13 through May 21, Several alumni returned to Commencement Grant Clark had some of his to congratulate their siblings and friends. Shown paintings displayed at The Arts on here are just some of them. Division festival in Somerville, N.J.

Class of 2007 Tom Cosentino graduated from Rowan University and passed his New Jersey State EMT exam. He also signed on with DCP Midstream in Denver, Colo. to work as an engineer doing design work for their plants.

Class of 2008 Brooke Donaldson recently graduated magna cum laude from

Coastal Carolina University and Alumni gathered in the rear obtained the Apprentice Instructor of Aresty Pavilion to watch their friends. position at The Seeing Eye in Morristown, N.J. She also wrote to inform us that her classmate, Katie Dicks, was recently accepted as a volunteer EMS at the Bernardsville Fire Department. Terrance Timothy ’07 (l) and friend.

(L. to r.) Noreen Syed ’10, Dr. Andrew Lutz, English teacher, and Lauren Ullrich’08.

36 1939 1966 2011

1981 1965

Forever Young GSB Commencements Through the Years Gill St. Bernard’s School P.O. Box 604 Non-Profit Org St. Bernard’s Road U.S. Postage Gladstone, NJ 07934-0604 PAID (908) 234-1611 W.Caldwell, NJ www.gsbschool.org Permit #55

Graduates, trustees and faculty assembled in the Todd Quad after Commencement.