HILLTOPPER

WA’s Strategic Plan + CAMPUS MASTER PLAN FACULTY PERSPECTIVE REUNION WEEKEND COMMENCEMENT 2019 REPORT ON ANNUAL GIVING BRIAN O’CONNELL REMEMBERED

winter 2019–2020 VOLUME XXVIII / ISSUE 1 CONTENTS

4 unveiling our strategic plan 16 introducing our master plan WINTER 2019–2020 contents

24 faculty perspective: part II

28 reunion weekend 2019 44 meet head monitor Carlin Stewart ’20 52 departments commencement 2019 34 ALUMNI NEWS 40 ON THE HILLTOP 49 THE MIDDLE 51 WA ATHLETICS 56 GIVING NEWS 59 CHECKING IN 40 70 PASSINGS

coach Jamie Sullivan is 76 in the neighborhood report on annual giving the HILLTOPPER

BOARD OF TRUSTEES winter 2019–2020 officers & members VOLUME XXVIII / ISSUE 1

President James J. Pietro ’81, P’11,’14,’19 Head of School Ronald M. Cino P’21,’22,’24 First Vice President Sarah Sullivan Pulsifer ’91 Treasurer Jonathan S. Stuart ’86 Hilltopper Editor Neil R. Isakson P’15,’19

Benny Sato Ambush ’69 Graphic Designer Good Design LLC 2015 Case DI Sava Berhané, J.D. ’03 Bronze Award Jamie Lavin Buzzard ’02 Photography Alexander Aghjayan ’11 Courtney Carr Ursula Arello ’85, P’21 winner for Best Henry Dormitzer III ’88 David Barron, Oxygen Group Designed Magazine R. Victor Fields ’71 Drew Forsberg ’91 Matthew Finkle ’87 Alicia Figueiredo David P. Forsberg ’65, P’91,’94 Barbara Gould 2016 CASE DI Silver Michal Grabias ’11 Hockmeyer With Barksdale Photography Award winner for J. Michael Grenon ’88 Neil Isakson P’15,’19 William Haddad ’92 Tom Kates Photography General Excellence, Susan Weagly Jacobs, J.D. P’03 Mike Nyman Photography Independent School Dana R. Levenson ’75, P’18,’21 Taylor Perry, New England Photo Booth Magazines Andrew B. O’Donnell, Esq. ’73, Kim Stone P’03,’05,’07,’10 Megan O’Leary P’20,’22 Advancement Office Kim Stone, Director of Development Jacqueline Peterson Ursula A. Arello ’85, P’21, Director of Donor and Alumni Engagement Susan Puryear P’19,’21 Frank R. Callahan ’71, Director of Planned Giving Robert Scumaci P’15,’18 Alicia Figueiredo, Manager of Alumni Programs and Events David V. Shamoian ’70 Neil R. Isakson P’15,’19, Director of Operations Luke M. Vaillancourt ’01 and External Communications Mark E. Lufkin, Senior Development Officer Anette Macintire P’22, Development Database Coordinator Dexter P. Morse, Headmaster Emeritus Katherine E. Morse, Communications Editorial Assistant ON THE COVER Erica Driscoll Ribeiro P’20,’24, Director of Annual Giving Worcester Academy Marketing and Participation Board of Trustees President Donald E. “Dee” Rowe ’47, GP’12,’17,’19, James Pietro ’81, P’11,’14,’19 Special Assistant to the Head of School and Head of School Ron Cino P’21,’22,’24. Contributing Writers Cheryl Bardoe is a visiting educator, author, and a frequent writer in the (Tom Kates Photography) educational field. She contributed to both the Strategic Plan and Master Plan feature stories in this issue.

Vy Nguyen ’19 worked in the Development Office while completing her Worcester Academy Graduation Project. She is now a freshman at Northeastern University. MISSION Worcester Academy exists to instill in its students the desire to learn Caroline Reich P’06,’08 is a former development staffer for Worcester throughout life, to engage passionately with the world around them, Academy. She and her husband, Joel Reich, are benefactors of the Summer and to be honorable persons of strong and resourceful character. Scholars Program, which serves children living in the WA neighborhood.

CORE VALUES We are a community—curious, thoughtful, generous, and thriving in our The Hilltopper is published twice yearly by Worcester Academy. diversity. We embrace each of our core values as essential to the mission Reader comment, as well as information of interest, is always welcome. of Worcester Academy and as testimony of our beliefs and commitments. Please write to Neil R. Isakson, Director of Operations and External Communications, at Worcester Academy, 81 Providence St., HONOR | RESPECT | COMMUNITY | PERSONAL GROWTH | CHALLENGE Worcester, MA 01604, or email [email protected].

2 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020

Oluwadamilola “Josh” Ogundele ’20 outside the St. John’s Church Food Pantry in Worcester where Worcester Academy students regularly volunteer their time.

4 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 Unveiling Our Strategic Plan 2019–2024

It is with great satisfaction and appreciation that we present In the coming pages, you will find our five key priorities, our Strategic Plan, which is rooted in the best practices of our each delineated with a specific set of goals. In addition, the field. This vision challenges us to clarify what a Worcester committee co-chairs for developing each priority elaborate “This is what Academy education represents and how to align our pedagogy on how the goals fit into the life of our school. The priorities to fit the future. At the same time, it reinforces our commit- are tightly integrated in such a way that progress on any one excellence looks ment to maintaining the best of our time-tested traditions and point feeds the others. Campus enhancements brought about values. This is what excellence looks like in a school—and it through Organizational Alignment, for example, directly like in a school— radiates through our academics and the character of our fac- relate to our goals for reinforcing community in Our Culture. ulty, students, and alumni! Developing a new schedule to impact the educational experi- and it radiates The Strategic Plan is the result of a thorough, thoughtful pro- ence will also support our initiatives in Urban Leadership. cess that included all WA constituencies. Our Board of Trustees And, so on. through our identified five priorities for consideration, each of which had a Since 1834, WA has been sending alumni into the world dedicated committee of faculty, staff, and trustees. We incorpo- with the skills, inspiration, and core values to “Achieve the academics and the rated the perspectives of students and parents through surveys Honorable.” This Strategic Plan strengthens our ability to serve and other outreach. We also conducted in-depth research of current and future generations of students. Much of this work character of our demographic trends, the educational landscape, and what eco- is already underway. Through ongoing professional develop- nomic leaders recognize as critical skills that students need for ment and program evolution, we have laid a solid foundation faculty, students, their futures. Implementing this plan will also be a truly collab- for achieving our goals. We are highly motivated and in a state orative endeavor. Strategic planning is an ongoing exercise with of readiness to go even deeper in fulfilling the promise of our and alumni!” regular opportunities to seek feedback and assess progress. This mission throughout the 21st century. We are grateful to you for is an innovative process that becomes enmeshed in the daily joining us on this journey and embracing this bold, dynamic work of being responsive to our WA students and community. vision for Worcester Academy.

Ronald M. Cino, Head of School James J. Pietro ’81, President, Board of Trustees

2019–2024Worcester Academy 5 GOALS

1. Create an innovative plan of study that builds mastery and deep understanding of our core curriculum and develops the core skills of problem solving, critical thinking, creativity, Educational collaboration, communication, and cultural competence.

2. Align our educational goals with 1 research to ensure our students’ success at WA and to prepare Experience our graduates for the challenges and opportunities they will have in college and in their careers.

STRATEGIC PRIORITY 3. Ensure that our educational experience is equitable and inclusive, diverse in perspectives, and rich in Worcester Academy students will graduate prepared to lead conversations about our world. and thrive in a highly competitive, rapidly evolving world 4. Develop a schoolwide calendar and daily schedule that is fluid and flexible, having gained critical knowledge and skills from a rigorous, facilitates deeper student and adult engagement inside and outside of distinctive, and transformative educational program. the classroom, improves the quality of community life, and is true to our educational mission and goals.

6 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 PERSPECTIVE

At WA, we believe that learning can—and should—happen latest educational research. Last year, we piloted Professional anywhere, any time. We offer a rigorous education that reaches Learning Groups, during which all faculty met with peers across disciplines, beyond classroom walls, through multiple around one of 12 topics, including assessments and grading, modalities. With the guiding principles of our Portrait of a student voice, and integrating technology into the classroom. Learner, we cultivate global citizens with a growth mindset. This has become one of many ways faculty stay abreast of The Strategic Plan strengthens our resolve to offer an innovative current educational trends as we provide the highest quality curriculum that emphasizes problem solving, critical thinking, education for WA students. This work also informs our plan- collaboration, communication and cultural competence. ning and preparation to deliver an educational experience that Our faculty already think outside the box to make learning is equitable and inclusive of the diverse perspectives and back- active and relevant. Ninth-grade English and history teachers grounds that students bring to the hilltop from nearly 100 local are collaborating on a course that examines the origins and cities and towns, a dozen U.S. states, and two dozen countries evolutions of cities by using case studies from Worcester to around the globe. explore the significance and challenges of cities around the Redeveloping our daily schedule and school calendar will world. In engineering, students design, 3-D print, and then test create new flexibility to deliver on these goals. This means different models for wind turbine blades. Meanwhile, every WA scheduling time to facilitate cross-curricular activities, for senior applies knowledge and skills to a substantive gradua- students to engage with off-campus partners, and for our com- tion project that involves career exploration, service learning, munity to assemble together on campus. Making it possible or the creation of a masterwork or capstone thesis. Possibilities for all Upper School students to have lunch at the same time for future initiatives include more multidisciplinary learning and for all Middle School students to eat lunch together will strands and WA-designed online courses that allow students strengthen bonds and increase opportunities for collaboration. to dive deeper into specific areas of interest. This is an exciting time to be at WA as the Strategic Plan sets 1 Strategic Plan goals also strengthen the professional devel- out a vision that is authentically grounded in dynamic work that opment that keeps our pedagogy and practices rooted in the is already occurring—and that inspires us to reach even higher.

COMMITTEE CO-CHAIRS Barbara Ahalt, Associate Head of School Kirk Upton, Faculty/Director of New Faculty Programming/ Director of Institutional Research

Worcester Academy 7 GOALS

1. Foster a clear and unified sense of community identity that aligns with Worcester Academy’s unique mission, values, and history.

Our Culture 2. Intentionally and deliberately cultivate among all learners at WA the social and emotional skills and competencies that enable and empower them 2 to participate and grow to their STRATEGIC PRIORITY fullest potential in keeping with our mission of learning throughout life, engaging with the world around Promote a healthy, positive, and thriving campus culture them, and being honorable persons that is rooted in “Achieving the Honorable” and centered of strong and resourceful character. 3. Explore the meaning and value of in our core values of Honor, Respect, Community, equity and inclusion at WA and articulate it in a clear schoolwide Personal Growth, and Challenge. statement of equity and inclusion.

8 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 PERSPECTIVE

The WA culture is composed of the innumerable ways in which belongs, and everyone matters. Moving forward, we will revisit our values are realized every day. It infuses our curriculum and our diversity mission statement, approved by the Board of every interaction among faculty, students, and our community. Trustees in 2006, to convey a more comprehensive concept of Highlighting this priority in the Strategic Plan gives us an equity and inclusion. Guided by this, we will review curricula invaluable opportunity to discuss what it means to “Achieve and programs to ensure that they reflect the latest research the Honorable” and to make our efforts to enhance Academy and practices for being culturally responsive. culture intentional and consistent. Our Strategic Plan also challenges us to consider how Research shows that schools with comprehensive social- we foster a unified sense of community. Our campus brings emotional curricula have measurable increases in academic together students from nearby and far away, and from grades performance. This is because skills relating to self-advocacy, 6–12 and postgraduates, including day students and boarders. time-management, goal-setting, and life balance promote As we review the daily schedule, we will identify more oppor- healthy success in every area of life. Our strong faculty advi- tunities for the whole Middle School to come together, for the sors and existing wellness days reflect ways in which WA is whole Upper School to come together, and for the Academy as already aligned with best practices in this area. The Strategic a whole to come together. We will further develop the connec- Plan provides momentum to make social-emotional learning tions between our divisions so that middle and upper school more explicit and integrated throughout each school day. students can each benefit from peer mentorship and a strong WA has a long history of valuing diversity as integral to our sense of community. community. We encourage students to embrace difference Strategic planning lies at the heart of what it means to be an as they build self-awareness, cultural competency, and an educator—simultaneously appreciating what we have while appreciation for others. In recent years, our faculty have been also striving to do better. We are grateful to all faculty, stu- inspired by the essential question, “How do we honor and dents, families, alumni, and partners for their contributions to 2harness the power in our stories?” Through this lens, everyone our thriving WA culture. COMMITTEE CO-CHAIRS Rebecca Yacono, Director of Middle School Patricia Peterleitner, Former Director of Upper School

Worcester Academy 9 GOALS

1. Strategically connect our academic, co-curricular, and extracurricular programs locally and globally to create meaningful, memorable, and Urban relevant learning experiences and partnerships that make a positive impact outside of ourselves.

3 2. Leverage our master planning outcomes and build a campaign case Leadership to attract resources that will improve our campus experience, catalyze economic and cultural revitalization of our immediate neighborhood, STRATEGIC PRIORITY and expand our engagement with the broader community. Be an active partner and catalyst for change in our neighborhood and the broader community.

10 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 PERSPECTIVE

Urban Leadership is woven into the fabric of WA because consumer guide to promote the shops. Our advanced algebra the Academy has long been an integral part of the city. We class has launched a three-year study to track the economic are fortunate to be part of a growing metropolis and recog- impact of the Red Sox Triple-A baseball team that is relocat- nize that as Worcester flourishes, we must continue to be an ing to Worcester. In the Upper School, classes take students essential part of it. The Strategic Plan highlights our ongoing, off campus to apply language skills by interviewing local evolutionary work in this area, the outcomes of which may entrepreneurs and community leaders who are native speak- be revolutionary. The world is changing fast and the ability ers of Spanish and French. WA students also engage regularly to apply classroom lessons to real world experiences is the in meaningful service learning, with more than a third of our most authentic way possible to prepare students for their seniors receiving the President’s Volunteer Service Award. futures. A boarding school in an urban setting represents an These are just a few examples, and we are excited that the amazing opportunity for students to realize that the world is Strategic Plan brings the opportunity to do even more. bigger than themselves and to acquire a wide range of skills All such WA programs are grounded in a foundation of and experiences that will set them apart during future college respect, values, and reciprocity. Thus, students discover that years and careers. relationships grow strongest through shared investment When our students interact with the city of Worcester as and reward. The Strategic Plan calls on us to build mutually an extension of the classroom, they explore aspects of urban beneficial connections with local residents, businesses, and environments that are relevant around the globe. Through social and cultural institutions. It also sets forth the concept of our Building Bridges program, WA sixth graders join with leveraging our Master Plan to improve our campus experience peers from nearby Union Hill Elementary School for a series of and spark revitalization of our immediate neighborhood. events that encourage all participants to embrace themselves We are proud to be an Academy that draws students from and to expand their cultural competency. In eighth grade, our metro area, across the country, and around the world. We 3students visit owners of Korean, Middle Eastern, Vietnamese, are delighted that the Strategic Plan solidifies our commitment and other ethnic-based food markets and then produce a to being integral in each of these circles.

COMMITTEE CHAIR Aaron Stephenson, Faculty

Worcester Academy 11 GOALS

1. Human Resources: Ensure fair, equitable, and transparent policies regarding employee compensation, professional learning, and evaluation.

Organizational 2. Campus Master Planning: Invest resources to address short- and long- term campus needs in the service of the Mission, Core Values, and Vision and 4 to positively impact our neighborhood.

Alignment 3. Enrollment Management: Through marketing and pricing strategies, recruit and retain mission-appropriate students and families to help us STRATEGIC PRIORITY meet our optimum enrollment mix. 4. Program Management: Ensure that Align our financial, physical, and human resources and policies our programs operate efficiently and with appropriately allocated resources and practices with our strategic vision and priorities. and that our program development is equitable and transparent.

5. Diversification of Revenues: Reduce reliance on traditional net tuition revenue growth to support operations.

12 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 PERSPECTIVE

The goals of the Organizational Alignment priority repre- Enrollment Management is intentional about attracting sent behind-the-scenes processes that make it possible for families whose interests correspond with WA’s educational WA to carry out its work in classrooms, around campus, milieu and in making the WA experience accessible to a and throughout the community. Families often ask about our broad range of constituencies. Updated market research will future goals as an organization. They value how WA will sup- enhance these efforts. port and challenge their students, and they want assurance Our Master Plan outlines a vision for redeveloping historic that the school is on sound footing to deliver on the promise spaces and further developing new spaces to better sup- of its mission. Human resources, infrastructure, and financial port our students and wider community. As we think about resources are like the three legs of a stool for any organiza- our space in concentric circles, we are reviewing plans tion. The Strategic Plan charts a course for maintaining the to enhance our core campus and integrate WA even more vital equilibrium of these operations to make WA successful deeply into the surrounding neighborhood that is part of our and sustainable for generations to come. extended campus. Program Management and Diversification Human Resources is tasked with ensuring that our faculty of Revenues goals are both about allocating resources effec- and staff are appropriately compensated and supported. tively and maximizing organizational stability. The Strategic This includes consistent policies and transparent communi- Plan adds to our momentum in using these lenses to identify cation about staff assignments and benefits, plus equitable areas for refinement and growth. access to opportunities for professional growth. Attracting We are proud that every initiative launched under the banner and retaining people with the highest caliber of profession- of Organizational Alignment is deeply intertwined with the alism and a deep commitment to education is critical for other goals of the Strategic Plan because everything we do is ensuring the best experience for our students. Meanwhile, in service to our WA mission and students.

4 COMMITTEE CO-CHAIRS Meghan Bennett, Director of Enrollment Management Tom DiConza, Chief Financial Officer

Worcester Academy 13 GOALS

1. Clarify, embrace, and market our unique identity in the independent school marketplace. Communicate it widely; employ it persistently.

Advancement 2. Build programs and systems that serve to create, maintain, and grow relationships with those 5 in the WA community: alumni, donors, current and prospective & Development families, and other stakeholders. 3. Increase fundraising dollars in support of the implementation of the strategic and master plans to STRATEGIC PRIORITY levels set forth by the board.

Promote and leverage the value of the Worcester Academy experience for enhanced enrollment, fundraising, and deeper relationships within our community.

14 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 PERSPECTIVE

WA’s purpose for existence is to create lifelong learners who relationship with one another. This culture is evident every engage passionately with the world around them. Our core fall when parents organize the Parent Sign-a-thon, where values call on us to lead lives of honor, respect, community, they come to socialize, be inspired, and sign letters asking personal growth, and challenge. As a result, our entire program others to join them in supporting the Annual Fund. This ethic is infused with the ethic that WA faculty, administrators, staff, is also represented by alumni in alumni giving. Supporters students, alumni, families, and partners are contributing mem- like Michael Tien ’68, who gifted $100,000 to establish The bers of a community that is larger than ourselves. Fund for Professional Learning to sustain faculty in continu- The goals of our Strategic Plan reinforce how we articu- ally evolving their practice to support student growth. Our late this unique identity as we strengthen bonds beyond the students know that gifts of any level are an investment in boundaries of our campus. The stories we share about the the community that sustains them now and into the future. everyday experience and impact of WA demonstrate our mis- Grateful WA graduates pay this investment forward to the sion and values. As those stories resonate, they expand our school and society in a myriad of ways. community even as they knit it closer together. The Strategic Highlighting Advancement and Development as the final Plan also recognizes the value of maintaining programs and priority of our Strategic Plan recognizes how this work systems to help alumni, donors, and others stay connected underpins WA’s mission. Every scholarship, every program, to each other and to the institution. Cultivating authentic every building at WA benefits from these efforts. WA is such relationships enhances our ability to serve students and the an incredible institution today because of how those who broader WA community. came before us worked to develop and strengthen the school. WA has a long history of being a community that gives Everyone will have a part to play in bringing the current more than it takes. We foster a culture of philanthropy Strategic Plan to fruition. We look forward to partnering with that centers on kindness, gratitude, and making a differ- you in the coming years as we work together to make WA all 5ence. Giving at WA is active and joyful and centers us in that it can be for our students. W COMMITTEE CO-CHAIRS Kim Stone, Director of Development Edward Reilly, Director of Athletics

Worcester Academy 15 ILLUSTRATION: LONELY/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Introducing Our Campus Master Plan

Like any organization, a school must evolve and grow as a renaissance in recent years. The nearby Canal District society changes. We are proud that WA has always been is lively with shops and restaurants, and the relocation of willing to challenge itself in the pursuit of education, dem- Boston’s Triple-A Major League Baseball team to Worcester onstrating a pragmatic ability to ignore fleeting fads and will maintain this trend. Recently, Worcester Academy instead focus in on major shifts that impact students’ lives. was named the Official Independent School Partner of the Our core values will continue to guide us into the future, as Worcester Red Sox, which will debut in a new $100M sta- WA constantly strives to deliver on those values in deeper dium just blocks from WA in 2021. The initiative continues ways. The Strategic Plan, and the accompanying Master the Academy’s lead role in the vibrant transformation of the Plan that is outlined in the following pages, will sustain WA city. Additional WA partnerships include: MetroWest/Greater to reach even more students, with an educational experi- Worcester Habitat for Humanity, building homes in our ence that is even more complete. Along the way, WA will neighborhood; the new Fidelity Bank Worcester Ice Center, also become even more interwoven into the fabric of our home to WA boys and girls hockey teams, located on nearby extended community. Harding Street; and Union Hill Elementary School, which The Master Plan will generate immediate benefits and long- enjoys extensive access to Worcester Academy’s Morse Field term impact. It also reflects excellent stewardship because it for recess, physical education classes, and annual spree focuses on using our historic buildings to full capacity before days. WA students also regularly partner with Union Hill adding structures. Each phase creates new spaces—and thus students for joint activities and programs at both Union Hill new opportunities—for WA students and faculty to come School and Worcester Academy. Increasingly, families want together for learning, collaborating, and socializing. Every an education that accesses all that a thriving city has to phase also has a community component, recognizing WA as a offer, and WA is well-positioned to fill this need. partner with our neighbors in the growth and direction of our Step-by-step, the Master Plan will transform our campus in immediate surroundings. Over time, these enhancements will dynamic ways. The Strategic Plan priorities are worthwhile increase WA’s competitiveness in the educational market- for current students and families, for the larger community, place—offering a historic campus with modern facilities to and for society as a whole. While implementing such a vision serve contemporary students. will take time and commitment, we have the momentum and WA is fortunate to be an established institution in a city the wisdom to proceed, knowing that what we do now will with national and global ties, and which has experienced affect generations to come.

Ronald M. Cino, Head of School James J. Pietro ’81, President, Board of Trustees

Ronald M. Cino says the Master Plan will generate immediate benefits and long-term impact. >

16 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 “Each phase creates new spaces—and thus new opportunities—for WA students and faculty to come together for learning, collaborating, and socializing.”

Worcester Academy 17 “Our Master Plan Positioning WA represents a perfect blending of the past, the present, for the Future and the future.”

Every element of the Master Plan is designed to serve WA It simultaneously makes vital space available to respond to students now and to uphold the school’s ability to deliver the future school needs. In this way, every point in our Master Plan highest quality of education for future generations. Great care is a significant piece of the mosaic that composes WA’s campus. and thought have gone into this sequence of actions so that WA recognizes the critical importance of its physical plant each advance spurs exponential growth in opportunities. to accomplishing our mission. Education is delivered in the In Phase 1, for example, renovating the lower levels of Adams context of community. It requires spaces that support intellec- and the Megaron addresses an urgent need for campus dining tual, social-emotional, and physical growth across a wide array space that can accommodate either the complete Upper School of activities relating to academics, arts, athletics, and service or the complete Middle School. The building of the new ath- learning. It also needs flexibility to adapt and stay relevant letic center on the South Campus will allow us to use Daniels in a constantly changing world. Our Master Plan represents Gymnasium to create a dining hall that accommodates the entire a perfect blending of the past, the present, and the future. As school. We will then repurpose renovated spaces in Adams and we renovate our historic buildings, we are honoring the grand the Megaron to support curricular activities in the core of our architecture that identifies WA as a place of inspirational learn- academic hub. In the short term, this chain of events strength- ing. We are also creating state-of-the-art buildings that meet ens our community and removes constraints so that we can contemporary standards for sustainability and will continue to refine our daily schedule to best support our academic program. attract and serve students for years to come.

David Shamoian ’70, Board of Trustees, Chair of Buildings and Grounds Committee

18 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 “Focusing on reuse of existing spaces, with minimal new construction, is both fiscally responsible The and reflective of WA’s commitment to sustainability.” Process

Our firm began working with Worcester Academy in 2017 to develop the Master Plan. We visited campus to tour buildings and get to know the surrounding neighborhood. After under- standing the physical environment, we met with stakeholder groups to explore how spaces are currently used, compared to how people would like to use them. We heard from faculty, staff, students, and supporters about every aspect of campus life, from academics to athletics, from the boarding experience to being a day student. Throughout these conversations, we uncovered important themes: WA is a tightknit community looking to fur- ther strengthen relationships; it values historic beauty and future sustainability; it promotes life balance that integrates academic, social-emotional, and physical growth. With these ideas in mind, we then visualized how campus spaces could be reconfigured and renovated to better support this thriving community. The value of historic buildings on a campus is irreplaceable. They remind faculty and students that the work being done now is built on work completed in the past. Similarly, “who” an institution is today is its foundation for tomorrow. A key benefit of WA’s iconic buildings is that they house significant spaces that are underutilized. Focusing on reuse of existing spaces, with minimal new construction, is both fiscally responsible and reflective of WA’s commitment to sustainability. Any invest- ments made in those spaces have impact now and in the future. Places matter. At WA, students learn not just in the classroom, but throughout the campus and the city of Worcester. They learn from faculty, they learn from each other, and they learn from the community. The Master Plan is so strongly aligned with the goals of the Strategic Plan because investing in these physical changes is vital for bringing this vision to life.

Dennis Swinford, Higher Education Planning Practice Leader, Goody Clancy

Worcester Academy 19 PHASE 1: Piloting Spaces

From the beginning, our Master Plan focuses on building community and increasing opportunities. Phase 1 kicks off with a series of changes that will create big impact with small financial investment.

Removing car traffic from our Quad will transform vital green can instead be used to expand dining hall seating—one of space into a student-centered landscape where people can our most urgent needs for increasing community connectivity. gather to soak up the grandeur of our beech trees and historic In addition, a staircase will encircle the elevator core, with buildings. Currently, cars impede this vista, adding emis- niches where people can pause to interact. Similarly, adding sions, noise, and a constant reminder to be cautious when furniture to Walker hallways and making cosmetic changes to entering or exiting the Quad. Relocating parking and reimag- dorm common rooms will encourage informal conversations ining this space will directly support our strategic priorities outside of class. because research shows the value of being outside for stimu- This phase also increases the visibility of the innovative lating our brains and promoting wellness. work transpiring at WA. Dedicating space in Kellner for a Indoors, we will connect all levels of Megaron, Adams, and maker studio and in Kingsley for displaying student work is Walker by adding an elevator. This will make available space a clear commitment of resources that will inspire deeper stu- in the basement, which is currently used only for storage but dent engagement.

120 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 PHASE 2: Focus on South Campus

WA is grateful to the foresight of past leaders in purchasing 2 the land for our South Campus, which is already home to the popular Performance Center and Morse Field.

Adding a state-of-the-art Athletic and Wellness Center to this zone is key to WA’s future. The only new building proposed in WA’s Master Plan, this center will add much needed space to support a holistic view of student life. Phase 2 also includes further investment in the pedestrian routes that link our historic core and south campus. Streetscape improvements and thoughtfully sited parking will extend the character of WA’s core campus.

Worcester Academy 21 PHASE 3: Creative Reuse of Historic Assets

Relocating athletic facilities to our South Campus will unlock tremendous potential for our core campus to focus on collaborative and creative living and learning. The “new gym” in Daniels Hall will be converted into a dining 3 space large enough to seat the whole school. The gym floor would accommodate about 570 diners, while a second-level terrace would accommodate an additional 120 seats. This mul- tifunctional space would also host all-school events, along with other uses by students and faculty. This phase will apply feedback from ongoing development of specialized learning spaces that were introduced on a smaller scale in Phase 1. The old gym presents an ideal oppor- tunity to scale up our maker studio. The large, open space of the gym building will allow a large common work area, with specialized tools, plus adjacent classrooms. The pool deck and balcony will be redesigned as a collaborative learning commons with study rooms for groups and individuals sur- rounding an open space for collaborating and gathering. A “grand staircase” will create a strong connection between the areas and provide impromptu presentation space. This phase will also see a more purposeful separation of middle and upper schools, an enhanced library and student services space, residential renovations, and further measures to expand a pedestrian core at the center of campus.

22 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 “This is where thousands of students have come— Conclusion: and will continue to come—to learn Future Academy Growth The WA campus is a participant in history. Our six nation- of buildings at the historic core. The plan also identifies three to ‘Achieve the ally registered historic landmark buildings imbue the whole locations on the South Campus that have potential for new campus with a sense of learning and community. This is construction, as determined by future needs. Honorable.’” where thousands of students have come—and will continue to Being tightly aligned with our Strategic Plan, the Master Plan come—to learn to “Achieve the Honorable.” Our Master Plan outlines a series of steps to address our school’s concrete celebrates the strengths of our existing campus as it sets out a needs now and builds in flexibility to adapt as needed in the new vision for how we will make the most of those resources. future. This plan distributes a mix of uses in every develop- This Master Plan organizes priorities into phases, starting with ment and reuse project. This will ensure continued use of high-impact, smaller projects, followed by new construction of space throughout the day and operationalize the principle that the Athletics and Wellness Center, which will allow renewal learning happens everywhere. W

Worcester Academy 23 Faculty

AT WORCESTERPerspective ACADEMY: PART II It’s a whole new world, What do teaching and and WA faculty and students learning look like at are up to the challenge! Worcester Academy?

Teachers bring tremendous intellectual and emotional energy to their work every day.

They are always trying to bring spend hours correcting and providing Hilltopper series, is designed to give their best selves and to share who valuable feedback to students to voice to some of those great educators they are with the students in their facilitate their future learning. Then, and the impact they have. We asked the classrooms. They share the successes they are expected to supply similar rigor faculty featured on the pages that follow, and challenges of their students with to their work as coaches, advisors, dorm “What do teaching and learning look their families and their colleagues who parents, and other roles that make the like at Worcester Academy?” We hope can help appreciate and support them. Worcester Academy experience special you enjoy learning about their unique They are asked to assess their students for students. perspectives on their work on our Hilltop work by papers, tests, projects, and to This article, the second of a two-part as much as we do.

24 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 We teach our students how to learn in the context of our subject area. We should not simply supply them with facts to memorize. We need to allow them to make mistakes without repercussions.

PAUL HIMOTTU

Teaching at WA Encourages Students to Become Paul Himottu, a former computer engineer, has taught math at Worcester Academy since 2004. Always interested in showing students practical applications of math, he coaches the Robotics Lifelong Learners Team and maintains the WA weather station. Why do we teach? For that matter, why we are teaching our students for the most The relationship that we have with our of teaching a particular topic and why it does anyone teach? To put into its very important day of their lives–tomorrow. At students in our classrooms should be such is important? This will make them more basic terms, isn’t it to convey some knowl- WA, we describe this as being “lifelong that students aren’t afraid of us or of mak- vested in the process and want to learn. edge that could prove to be beneficial learners.” We teach our students how to ing mistakes. We also need to allow them Would you be willing to spend the time to the student in the future? So, what learn in the context of our subject area. to correct their mistakes before moving learning something unless you under- is the future? Doesn’t the future begin We should not simply supply them with on to the next topic. This will allow them stood why it was going to be important with tomorrow? Someone once said that facts to memorize. We need to allow them to understand what they did wrong and to you? So, if we at WA want to truly be “tomorrow is the first day of the rest of to make mistakes without repercussions. thereby to have a deeper understanding a student-centered school, we have to your life.” Does anyone know how for how An educator once said that, “every time of the topic. Finally, we need to commu- remember that in the end it is not about long they will live? In very basic terms, we make a mistake, our brain grows.” nicate to our students what the goal is us, it is about our students.

Worcester Academy 25 WA Nurtures

Eileen Glassmire teaches chemistry“What and is Each Student Brings” the head of the Worcester Academy Science Today’s students live in a world that to work as part of a team, to problem I believe that colleges also seek these Department. She has taught at WA since 2015, is constantly changing. They will face solve, to take risks, and to be creative competencies in their student bodies. and her husband, Chuck, also taught at WA challenges and problems that don’t even with their ideas. These are the primary When I began my career in 1983, the until his retirement last year. exist yet. They need to be able to think, skills I strive to develop in my students. chemistry curriculum emphasized factual information and memorizable problem solving skills. Current emphasis is on the concepts underlying a scientific under- EILEEN GLASSMIRE standing of the world. I have always believed that one must dig into the concepts to really understand science, so this revised focus is both exciting and natural to me WA constantly challenges me to grow as a role model and educator. Our community emphasis on inclusivity, Our community multiculturalism, urban connections, and emphasis on inclusivity, curricular examination and redesign all multiculturalism, urban guarantee that I am constantly reflect- ing on how my work advances those connections, and goals in and out of the classroom. This curricular examination year I am trying to more deliberately and redesign all guarantee look for mastery of skills in writing and on assessments in my classes and use a that I am constantly rubric that reflects this goal. It is impor- reflecting on how my work tant that we assess in a way that reflects advances those goals in our values. If I value communication of reasoning and arguments supported and out of the classroom. with evidence, these should carry greater weight in the grading process than mechanics and facts. With each new assessment or lab report I read, I am becoming better at communicat- ing what aspects of student work show competencies and which need additional development, whether it is writing more persuasively or defending a position with evidence or learning leadership skills when participating in group work. WA nurtures what each student brings and encourages development of new skills. It is a terrific learning environment.

26 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 Tricia McKay-Monheim, with a master’s degree in learning disabilities from Columbia, has been director of the Center for Learning since arriving at Worcester Academy in 2014. Her responsibilities include coordinating academic success plans for the entire student body. In May, she was recognized with the O’Connell Award for teaching excellence (See page 45). TRICIA MACKAY-MONHEIM Students Taught to Become Teaching young people how to be their own advocates in their learning Their Own Advocates is an important part of our responsibility as As a learning specialist at Worcester students as they work to understand have a supportive educational atmo- educators, and this is not Academy, my focus is on the student how they learn, but they also work sphere while providing a wide range of as an individual, not only as a learner, hard to understand the challenges of challenge, on an academic level as well limited to those of us who but as a member of a community. I have all of their students. Teaching young as an artistic and physical one. We rec- are learning specialists. always been intrigued by the challenges people how to be their own advocates ognize that the support that one student faced by bright students who don’t in their learning is an important part may require often is helpful to others in always learn in “traditional” ways, but of our responsibility as educators, and their classes. I look forward to going to who thrive in a challenging environ- this is not limited to those of us who are school every day, not always knowing ment. Those students are able to meet learning specialists. Our teachers have a what challenges we might be facing, the expectations of a curriculum like stronger understanding of the complexi- when I know we are all working together ours with strategy-based support within ties of an adolescent brain than we did in as a team to inspire our students while the Center for Learning (CFL) that is the past and work hard to develop a cur- at the same time being inspired by designed with the students’ learning riculum that meets our students where them ourselves. Worcester Academy is a issues in mind. Teachers at WA not only they are developmentally. At WA, we are vibrant, challenging, and exciting place work closely with the CFL to support charged with ensuring that all students in which to teach and to learn.

Worcester Academy 27 ReunionReunion WeekendWeekend 201920192019

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28 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 1 Bob Dorfman ’69 and his wife, Miriam, enjoy the festivities! 2 Benny Texeira and his wife enjoy looking through the Class of 1969 yearbook during the Friday 50th Reunion luncheon.

2 3 3 5 Class of 1969 members gather in the Kellner Gary Hopfmann ’69 and Richard Dubin ’69 Student Center for a special luncheon. reminisce at the cocktail party. 4 6 Paul Blanchard, Mitch Glazier, and Class of 1969 classmates, Benny Ambush David Burwick (all Class of 1969) at the and Tim Doyle, looked through their yearbook Abercrombie House cocktail party. during the Worcester Club dinner. 7 The Class of 1969 at the Worcester 4 5 Club on Friday night. 6

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Reunion Weekend 2019 welcomed the classes of 1959, 1969, 1984, 1994, 1999, 2004, 2009 and 2014 back to the Hilltop to rekindle friendships and experience Worcester Academy today!

Worcester Academy 29 8 9 8 11 The Delehaunty family receives a framed poster in memory of alumnus Timothy Delehaunty ’86 during the Reunion 5K and Kids Fun Run in memory of Timothy. 9 5K winners! 10 5K Kids Fun Run winners! 10 11 Family fun activities on the Quad include a bouncy house for the kids. The 50th Reunion Class 12 of 1969 started its weekend on Friday, Tony Bougiouris and Justin Rubinstein, from the Class of 1999, reconnect on the Quad. May 3, with a special lunch in Walker Gallery. A campus tour and special session on the music of the 1960s followed. The class capped off its day with a reception at Abercrombie House and a special dinner at the Worcester Club, hosted by Head of School Ron Cino and his wife, Nathalie. 12 13 13 14 Elisabeth Delehaunty ’89 next to one of her pieces at her textile art exhibit at the Performance Center. 14 Kathy Arias and Stephanie Omuemu from the Class of 2004. 15 10th Reunion members from the Class of 2009 at the Reunion Gala. 16 Class of 1994 17 Class of 1984 18 Class of 1999 19 Class of 2014

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Reunion Weekend welcomed back all reunion classes on Saturday, May 4, as alumni returned to campus for activities and events including a 5K and Kids Fun Run in 18 memory of Timothy Delehaunty ’86 19 followed by a BBQ on the Quad, State of the School address, and a textile art exhibit hosted by alumna

Elisabeth Delehaunty ’89. Worcester Academy 31 20 Classmates from the Class of 1959 Paul Lamoureaux and Jeffrey Halbreich, along with Jeff’s wife, Linda. Saturday also featured 21 an awards ceremony at Warner Theater The 50th Reunion Class of 1969 22 in conjunction with Reunion Weekend. Albert Feldman and Tori Bentkover from the Class of 2009. The Academy recognized Distinguished 23 Alumnus/a Award winner Dr. James Classmates from 2009 reminisce as they look through their yearbook. Salzer ’69; Young Alumnus/a Award winner Courtney Pelley ’04; and the Cole Porter, Class of 1909, Arts Recognition Award recipient Benny Sato Ambush ’69. 20 Hall of Fame recipients included Linda and Helge Duemmel P’94, Brian A. O’Connell ’67, Bayard DeMallie II P’82,’85,’87 (posthumously) and Eleanor Such P’66 (posthumously). See award recipient bios on page 34.

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23 24 24 Deborah Barrera, Kathy Phipps, and Ed The Reunion Gala Sherr from the Class of 1984 reconnect. brought alumni of all ages to the dance 25 Victor Fields ’71, Benny Sato floor in celebration of their friendship and Ambush ’69, and Jim Salzer ’69. 26 love of Worcester Academy! Class of 2004 classmates, Arielle Pastick, Kathy Arias, Courtney 25 Pelley, and Stephanie Omuemu. 27 Longtime friends Melissa (Abodeely) Ruhl, Mitra Morgan, and Dorene (Saltiel) Blythe from the Class of 1984. 28 Class of 2009 classmates, Catrina Doxsee and Aglaia Ovtchinnikova reading their time capsule letters. 29 26 The dancing begins!

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If your class year ends in a “5” or a “0,” we hope that you will make plans now for Reunion on May 2, 2020. Worcester Academy 33 Alumni News eight honored DURING REUNION WEEKEND 2019

Worcester Academy honored eight members of the Academy community during Reunion Weekend, May 3–4, 2019. Those honored included Dr. James Salzer ’69, who received the Distinguished Alumnus/a Award, and Courtney Pelley ’04, who received the Young Alumnus/a Award. The Cole Porter, Class of 1909, Arts Recognition Award went to Benjamin Sato Ambush ’69. Worcester Academy Hall of Fame inductees included WA Board of Trustees Secretary Brian A. O’Connell ’67 (see story on his passing on Page 74) and former teachers Helge and Linda Duemmel P’94, as well as two others who were recognized posthumously: former WA Board of Trustees President Bayard DeMallie II P’82,’85,’87 and longtime administrative staff member Eleanor Such P’66. Congratulations to all those honored! You have “Achieved the Honorable.” alumni award recipients conduction of electrical impulses in the Distinguished nervous system. Myelinated axons are Alumnus/a Recipient the main target in a large number of Dr. James Salzer ’69 neurological disorders, including multiple sclerosis. His lab has identified signals Dr. James Salzer ’69 is a professor of that promote or block myelination and neuroscience, physiology, and neurology regulate axon organization. The lab has at New York University (NYU) School also identified a new target that enhances of Medicine. Since 1984, he has served myelin repair—using endogenous neural NYU variously as head of its Neurology stem cells in the brain—which he is work- Clinics at Bellevue Hospital, director of ing to advance into a clinical therapy. its Medical Scientist Training Program, According to Dr. Salzer, being direc- and co-director of its Langone Multiple tor of one’s own lab at a major academic Sclerosis Center of Excellence. center has elements of business, fundrais- A distinguished researcher and author, ing, publishing, and education. He credits he holds a bachelor’s degree from Stanford his Worcester Academy experience for University and an M.D. and Ph.D. from building foundational interest in those Washington University. He completed his areas in his early years. He fondly recalls neurology residency at New York Hospital/ a number of faculty members, including Weill Cornell Medical College. Irv Freeman, George Andes and Clarence His research focuses on myelinated Barthelman for the roles they played in Dr. James Salzer ’69 receives his Distinguished Alumnus/a Award. axons, nerve fibers essential for the rapid his development as a young scientist.

34 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 alumni news

Courtney Pelley ’04 receives her Young Alumnus/a Award from Head of School Ron Cino. Benny Sato Ambush ’69 receives the Cole Porter Arts Recognition Award.

Dr. Salzer and his wife, Dr. Barbara has completed several fellowships in nominated for the Geiger Gibson University of California, San Diego. Over Hempstead, a professor at Cornell public and community health leadership. Emerging Leader Award. the years, he distinguished himself as Medical School, reside in Manhattan and Prior to becoming chief of staff at She stays connected to Worcester a prominent professional theater artist have two daughters. Kennedy Health Center, she was recipi- Academy as a member of WA’s and educator with a national profile. ent of the 2014–2015 Deland Fellowship Board of Visitors and as a gradu- He is a member of the Stage Directors in Health Care and Society at Brigham ation project sponsor. and Choreographers Society, a theatri- Young Alumnus/a Recipient and Women’s Hospital. Her earli- cal union, and has served as a National Courtney E. Pelley ’04 est professional experiences were as Endowment for the Arts panelist and a chemistry teacher and basketball Cole Porter, Class of 1909, site evaluator. Courtney E. Pelley ’04 is chief of staff coach— first with Teach For America at Arts Recognition Award Recipient He has award-winning directing credits at the Edward M. Kennedy Community Richmond High School in California, and Benjamin Sato Ambush ’69 at professional regional theatres and Health Center, a Federally Qualified then at Worcester Academy. universities throughout the U.S. and the Health Center with 300 employees She is a member of the board of the Benjamin Sato Ambush ’69, Benny, a vet- Boston region. He has served on numerous caring for 27,000 patients a year. An Massachusetts School-Based Health eran stage director, producer, educator, regional and national boards—including advocate for ensuring access to edu- Alliance, the National Association of and consultant, most recently served as the Theatre Communications Group—and cational opportunities and health care Community Health Centers Committee on senior distinguished producing director- he adjudicates nationally and interna- services as a fundamental human Health Center Excellence and Training, in-residence of Boston’s Emerson Stage, tionally for the American Association of right, she has devoted herself to the Coalition for a Healthy Greater Emerson College, where he also taught Community Theatre. He is a published serving vulnerable populations and Worcester Access to Care Priority Area acting and directing. A former artistic commentator, a Steering Committee addressing the social issues that Working Group, the Worcester Public director of three theatres—two of them member of the National Alliance of Acting contribute to health disparities. Schools School Health Advisory Council, professional—he teaches acting and Teachers, a member of The National Courtney, who mentors students, and the Greater Worcester Community directing at the university level. Theatre Conference, and a panelist for the volunteers and interns, holds degrees Foundation Early Childhood Grant Currently a member of the Worcester National Alliance for Musical Theatre. from Wellesley College (B.A. in neurosci- Committee. A member of Worcester Academy Board of Trustees, Benny Benny was a guest artist at Worcester ence) and Wake Forest University (M.A. Business Journal’s “40 Under Forty” earned a B.A. in theatre arts and dra- Academy in 2007. In 2018, Benny was in interpreting and translation studies— Class of 2018 and Leadership Worcester’s matic literature from Brown University selected for induction into the College of intercultural services in healthcare) and Class of 2019, Courtney has also been and an M.F.A. in Stage Directing from the Fellows of the American Theatre.

Worcester Academy 35 2019 hall of fame inductees

Bayard DeMallie P’82,’85,’87 was inducted into the Hall of Fame posthumously. Former faculty members Linda and Helge Duemmel P’94 are inducted into the Hall of Fame. Wife Betsy DeMallie receives his award at the ceremony from Andrew O’Donnell ’73. Also shown is WA Board President James Pietro ’81.

worked to bring WA through challeng- family even as they became an ing times of enrollment decline, helping iconic presence on the Hilltop. Bayard DeMallie II P’82,’85,’87 to stabilize the WA student population Linda and Helge Duemmel P’94 Linda Duemmel has a degree in (posthumously awarded) and pursuing vigorous recruitment and German and Spanish from Regis College. programmatic development which did Longtime faculty members Linda and Following her graduation, she lived and As a trustee, president of the board of much to place WA back onto a firm Helge Duemmel spent more than 25 taught in Germany. Upon returning to trustees, and parent of three Worcester growth track. Colleagues recall him as years positively impacting Worcester the U.S., she was hired by Worcester Academy alumni (Paige DeMallie the board president who provided all Academy students during their years Academy to teach English as a Foreign Rockett ’82, James DeMallie ’85, and trustees an active participatory role of dedicated service at WA from Language to the many Iranian students Craig DeMallie ’87), Bayard DeMallie II and set a collegial precedent for all 1977–2003. It was as a couple, indeed enrolled at the Academy at the time. was an important school leader dur- head search and appointment pro- a family, that they made a difference While she worked extensively with inter- ing the 1980s and 1990s. Before his cesses that have occurred since then. in the WA community along with their national students during her 26 years at untimely death in 1997, he was man- He was renowned for running a no- daughter, the late Sarah Duemmel ’94. WA, she also came to know and impact aging partner of Worcester law firm nonsense, on-schedule board meeting. Helge and Linda lived on campus and nearly every Worcester Academy student Mirick, O’Connell, DeMallie and Lougee Bayard was very involved in com- were fully immersed in school life. The as her responsibilities and influence grew. with a focus on business and banking munity affairs. He was a former director couple taught a variety of subjects, She taught Spanish and Latin, in addition law. He was a graduate of Deerfield of the Greater Worcester Community coached, served as dorm parents, and to English. In later years, she served as Academy, Williams College, and the Foundation, Goddard House, Family had a special role advising international the Academy scheduler, as the AP coor- University of Virginia Law School. Services of Central Massachusetts, and students even as they built their own dinator, and as academic counselor for Bayard served as a member of the the Bank of Boston-Worcester. He was international family. 2019 is an espe- Grades 9 and 10. After moving to Florida, Worcester Academy Board of Trustees also an avid golfer and longtime mem- cially fitting time to honor the Duemmels she retired from teaching in 2013. of from 1983 to 1993. He was president ber of Tatnuck Country Club, where he as it would have been the 25th class Helge Duemmel was born in East of the board during his final three years served as a board member. reunion of their daughter Sarah, whose Germany, but his family fled to West as a trustee. He focused initially on Bayard DeMallie is survived Peruvian adoption occurred early in Germany when he was a boy. He student life issues, especially bridg- by his wife, Betsy, their four chil- their WA careers. The German-born studied technical drafting and spent ing the gap between boarding and day dren, and 11 grandchildren. Helge, for his part, would become a 12 years as a navigator in the German students. Bayard encouraged expansion naturalized U.S. citizen. As such, the Navy, earning a Captain’s certificate. of WA’s commitment to co-education. He Duemmels became that All-American It was on a trip to the U.S. in 1969 that

36 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 alumni news

Late Board of Trustee’s secretary Brian O’Connell ’67, left, Hall of Fame recipient. Eleanor Such P’66 was inducted into the Hall of Fame posthumously. Her children receive her award at the ceremony from Brian O’Connell. he and Linda met. After their marriage, years as an elected member of the City Reminiscing at his 50th WA reunion, a temporary employee until a permanent and the completion of his naval ser- of Worcester School Committee. A 1967 Brian said, “I devote much of my time secretary to the headmaster could be vice, they moved to Massachusetts in graduate of Worcester Academy, Brian and energy to the Worcester Public found. Her talents were quickly recog- 1976. Helge completed his B.A. at Clark grew up on campus, where his father, Schools, to Worcester Academy, to Holy nized, and she stayed at WA for three University. He originally taught art but legendary faculty member Andrew Cross, to Anna Maria College, and to St. decades in a variety of roles, including soon retooled using his technical back- O’Connell, taught science. He held a B.A. John’s Church in Worcester. All of these working with the headmaster and the ground to become a math teacher and in English, French, and history from the remain central to my life.” Brian stood as Admission Office, and supervising other soccer and tennis coach at WA. College of the Holy Cross and a J.D. from a beacon of loyalty and dedication to the secretarial and administrative staff. Mrs. Following the couple’s move Harvard Law School. He practiced law in organizations and ideals most important Such was truly the official who kept the to Florida, he continued teach- Worcester and Boston. to him. Worcester Academy is honored to school’s internal operations functioning ing and coaching until 2010. Now A trustee of Anna Maria College, he be among them. well, especially during the late-1960s retired, he focuses on his artwork. formerly served on the board of trustees and early-1970s when the school faced at Holy Cross. He was co-chair of the both rapid turnover among administra- Finance Committee of St. John’s Church Eleanor Such P’66 tors and major changes to the student Brian A. O’Connell ’67 in Worcester. He was past president and (posthumously awarded) body. She was the leadership force that Editor’s Note: Brian O’Connell passed a lifetime member of the Massachusetts stabilized daily responsibilities, pro- away just five months after receiving Association of School Committees and Eleanor Such P’66 was inducted into vided valuable “institutional memory,” this award. A story on his passing can has served on the Governor’s Advisory the Worcester Academy Hall of Fame in offered a reasoned and sound judgment be found on page 74. Committee on Local Government (1997– recognition of her decades of steadfast on key issues, and was the trusted guide 2000) and the Massachusetts Education service from the 1950s to the 1980s. and support to the succession of new Brian A. O’Connell ’67, a Worcester Reform Review Commission (1997–2005). Although she died in 1992, much of what administrators. She was a quintessential native and veteran educational admin- Through the years, he remained actively Worcester Academy is today is attrib- WA staff employee—dedicated, thor- istrator, was business manager of the engaged with Worcester Academy as utable to the leadership she exercised ough, meticulous, and, for many years, Haverhill Public Schools. He held similar a friend, supporter, and alumnus. He quietly, but skillfully, in her diligent a vital behind-the-scenes force in the positions in Westerly, RI, and Killingly, was the long-standing secretary of the efforts to help guide our school through stable operation of our school. Her legacy CT. An attorney, he was best known Worcester Academy Board of Trustees decades of distinctive opportunities and continues through her son, William “Bill” for his long career in public service in and was its longest serving member, complex challenges. Ironically, Mrs. Such Such ’66, and her other children, Robert Central Massachusetts, including over 35 having joined in 1976. arrived at Worcester Academy in 1956 as and Janet Such. W

Worcester Academy 37 Florida Alumni, parents and friends gathered alumni events last spring for several events including a dinner cruise in Sarasota, a baseball game and reception in Port St. Lucie, and Black Alumni Event a luncheon in Naples. Worcester Academy’s Association of Black Alumni gathered for an inaugural meeting in May during Reunion activities.

Sarasota dinner cruise.

The reception after the Boys Varsity Baseball game in Port St. Lucie. Night ’19 Members of the Class Dear Evan Hansen of 2019 celebrated becoming alumni with a dinner and dancing at the College of the Holy Cross ballroom in June.

Shanghai Worcester Academy visited Shanghai Alumna’s Jessica (Jacobs) Tybursky ’03 earlier this year. Head of School Cino and Jessica Phillips ’89 pose with WA Vocal Director Don Irving at the after-party. and Development Director Kim Stone welcomed alumni and others to a special reception at the Ritz-Carlton Pudong. Thank you to our hosts, Yingjie Li P’22 and Fagua Xi P’22!

Young alumni enjoyed the show!

The Class of 2019 Alumni Transition Leaders: Matt Corey, Zilan (Abigail) Ding, Zhaoxun (Tina) Feng, Zihan (Arianna) Chai, Meagan Miranda, Trustee Benny Ambush ’69 with Veronika Osgood, and Joshua Isakson. Stewart ’70 and Rhonda Lassner

38 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 alumni news

California New York Alumni were hosted Alumni gathered at the Yale Club in April in NYC. by Rob ’61 and Diane reconnect, Reagan at the Riviera Country Club in California earlier this network, Robert Reagan ’61, his wife, Diane, Karla year for a brunch. Gardner H’84, and Peter Gardner ’63. Albert Feldman ’09, Michael Watson ’09, reminisce! and Christina Consigli ’09. Want to reconnect with classmates, faculty, and other friends? Join us during one of our upcoming alumni and friends events! Jackelyn Lane, Peter To register, go to Rawinski ’08, and Head Mackenzi Turgeon ’17, Ashlyn Krygowski ’16, Alumni and guests enjoyed the brunch. of School Ron Cino. Ben Clifford ’09, and Samuel Hatem ’17. worcesteracademy.org/register. February 1 Hong Kong New York California Alumni & Head of School Cino and Development Director Kim Stone joined Friends Gathering alumni and other friends in Hong Kong at the Grand Hyatt Hotel. Summer Riviera Club Many thanks to our host, Michael Puk Sun Tien ’68! Reception Alumni gathered at The Pacific Palisades, CA Frying Pan restaurant in NYC for a summer Brianna Bobola ’05, Chelsea Rice ’07, March 19 reception on August 15. and Chelsea Graves ’09. Florida Alumni & Friends Gathering Sarasota Yacht Club

April 30 Varsity Club Dinner Worcester Academy

Billy Lane ’11, Dean Eaton ’11, Jeffrey Halbreich ’59. and Robert Kettlewell ’08. May 2 Reunion 2020 For Classes ending Cape Cod in 0s and 5s Alumni, parents and friends gathered at the Cape home of parents John and Meg O’Leary P’20,’22 on July 27. June 8 Rowe Golf Tournament Rhode Island Country Club Barrington, RI

To host an event or to suggest an event location, or for more information, call the Worcester Academy Alumni Head of School Ron Cino P’21,’22,’24, Joseph Younge ’11, Cannan Severin ’12, Courtney Rose Dykeman-Bermingham ’12 Meg and John O’Leary P’20,’22, Patty Team at 508-754-5302 extension 181. and Nathalie Perez-Cino P’21,’22,’24. and Peter Dykeman-Bermingham ’14. Peterleitner P’12,’14, and Lee Colborne.

Worcester Academy 39 on the HILLTOP WORCESTER ACADEMY HOLDS 185th commencement exercises

CLASS OF 2019 COLLEGE MATRICULATION LIST

Jakob Adamson St. John’s University Ethan Boileau Springfield College Jordyn C. Cooper Molloy College Andrew James Adiletta Worcester Polytechnic Institute Michael Borrelli Saint Anselm College Matthew John Corey Babson College Eda Akkas University of Tampa Aliyah Alisa Boston University of South Carolina John Patrick Coughlin Colorado School of Mines Tyler M. Anger Union College Lia Brossi University of New Hampshire Kevin Cox Assumption College Gabrielle Arcand Tufts University Jared Bushnell Worcester Polytechnic Institute Carley Daly Amherst College Grace Arpin Sacred Heart University Angus Butler Deferring Enrollment Anh Dao Louisiana State University Kevin Arpin University of Maine Kevin Cafeo College of Charleston Kevon Darton Syracuse University Mitra Asdigha University of Massachusetts, Lowell Kevin Castro Bryan University of Massachusetts, Amherst Megan Elizabeth Dickie Catholic University Gualtiero Barilla Boston College Nico Cavaliere University of Rhode Island Zilan Ding Bryn Mawr College Griffin Barriere Saint Anselm College Kathryn Cawley Union College Mitchell Quinn Doherty SUNY Albany Geethika Bathini Boston University Zihan Chai Hamilton College Bryce C. Downey Stonehill College Nathan Michael Battles New York University Eric Cheng Carleton College Zhaoxun Feng Brandeis University Edward Beauregard Stonehill College Marina Clara Cimpeanu Smith College Kiera Marie Fernandes Post University Abigail Kathleen Berry Endicott College Cormac Collins Brown University Ruixi Fu New York University Chance Bichao La Salle University Gabriella Liana Conte Babson College Matteo Gallucci Returning to Italy for college

40 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 on the hilltop

2019 GRADUATION SPEAKER PATRICIA N. PETERLEITNER Members of the Class of 2019 gave graduation speaker Patricia Peterleitner Patricia Peterleitner P’12,’14 served P’12,’14 a warm welcome as well as as director of Worcester Academy’s hearty applause following her gradu- Upper School until June of this year. ation speech at Worcester Academy’s Before that, she was responsible for 185th Commencement Exercises June 7. developing an all-school student One hundred and thirty-seven members support program as the director of of the Class of 2019—hailing from 23 Worcester Academy’s Center for countries—received diplomas under fair Learning. Prior to that, she was a skies on the Academy’s historic Quad. Mathematics teacher and an MCAS Ms. Peterleitner, or “Ms. P.,” as stu- director in the city of Worcester after dents affectionately call her, spoke about having spent several years in the her years at WA as well as her recent Worcester Academy community as an health scare after suffering a stroke last admission officer, as a Mathematics spring. Her quick action at the time teacher, as a Biology, Physics, and helped to lessen the impact and severity Chemistry teacher, and as a student of the stroke. However, the side effects advisor and coach. sadly prevented her from returning as In addition to being graduation upper school director. Since that time, Speaker, Ms. Peterleitner was also Ms. Peterleitner has spoken openly about honored when the Class of 2019 the importance of knowing the warning dedicated its yearbook to her. signs and symptoms of a stroke. “You may see me struggle, but you will never ever see me quit, because of “You may see me struggle, but you will you all,” she told students, in her inspir- never ever see me quit, because of you all. ing address. “I am so grateful, strong, I am so grateful, strong, and thankful.” and thankful.” —Patricia N. Peterleitner, Also speaking was valedictorian former Director of Worcester Academy’s Upper School & 2019 Graduation Speaker Cormac Rowe Collins of Sterling and salutatorian Fiona Britt Price of Northborough. W

Vanessa Gangi Coastal Carolina University Joshua T. Isakson College of the Holy Cross Zixuan Lin University of Wisconsin Mabel Gao New York University Tiley S. Jones Trinity College Michelle Jiayi Liu Hamilton College Sophia L. Gardner Boston College Thitima Kaothaisong Pennsylvania State University Graeme Logan Pitzer College Bryce Garvey Southern Connecticut State University Paige M. Keeler Fordham University Richard J. Lundgren Fairfield University Kathryn M. Gaudet Rollins College Shelby Khoury Belmont University Yiou Lyu University of California, San Diego Roham Giahi Undecided William J. Kirk Tufts University Zachary Magdis Syracuse University Emily R. Goodrich Boston University Rahul Krishnan Brown University Charles F. Manoog Providence College Yuze Gu Brandeis University Zakaria Latifi Regis College James Edward Marculitis Occidental College Ernst Guerrier Bates College Daniel Lavin Norwich University Luke G. Mazur Clark University Tess Harvey Syracuse University Wesley Legare Southern Connecticut State University Jordan A McAllister Pace University Braedon Hatt Occidental College Maiah Lillian Lester Loyola University Maryland Sean McCarthy Suffolk University Laura Hill Hobart and William Smith Colleges Yanhan Li Wesleyan University Ryan McGowan University of South Carolina Jake Allen Hughes Pomfret School (Postgraduate) Yingxi Li Cornell University Grace E. McShea Northeastern University Zukudo Igwenagu Rutgers University Zhuofan Li Purdue University James Michielli Trinity College Paul Ingram Sacred Heart University Dylan Lien Brandeis University Meagan Elizabeth Miranda Bowdoin College

Worcester Academy 41 CLASS OF 2019 AWARD WINNERS Bucknell Award: Gabrielle Arcand Class of ’35 Prize Trophy: Fiona Price Class of 1890 All Around Athletic Prize: Kevin Cafeo The Rev. Edward Merrill Dart ’27 Award: Carley Daly Sarah Duemmel ’94 Memorial Award: Yingxi “Diana” Li The David A. Echelman Award: Mingze “Lily” Yan The Allan Glazer Memorial Award: Devin Rochelle Marc D. Levine Lifer Award: William Kirk William W. McAlpine Award: Nicole Pietro Neil W. Peters III Award: Andrew Adiletta Cole Porter ’09 Visual & Performing Arts Award: Yingxi “Diana” Li HG Rader Grant: Nicholas Ng Donald “Dee” Rowe Award: Cormac Collins George T. Sargisson Class ’27 Award: Manav Randhawa Sigma Cup: Cormac Collins Richard Winters Drama Award: Jack Parks

Ng Nicholas Ching Yan Hamilton College Mykah A. Puryear DeMeulenaere Yale University Anabel Szydlik Skidmore College Nguyen Megan Saint Anselm College Alexander Valentin Quintela University of Massachusetts, Amherst Mitchell A. Tebo University of Massachusetts, Amherst Vy Nguyen Northeastern University Nichole Ramirez Lesley University Grace Turner Macalester College Timothy O’Connor Denison University Manav Randhawa Bowdoin College Mercy Unoh Trinity College Dariia Ordynat George Washington University Ryan Ren Northwestern University Olivia Rose Valery Union College Aidan Ormsby University of Massachusetts, Amherst Adelyne Reynolds Hobart and William Smith Colleges Jovann Vega Quinnipiac University Chase A. Orr Washington College William Ridgley Elon University Bolin Wang New York University Brandin Osborne Muhlenberg College Devin Rochelle Union College Zachary J. Welch Cornell University Veronika Osgood Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Sarah Saber George Washington University Clarice Xu Haverford College Neha Panigrahi George Washington University En Le Ping Samborski Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Yichen Xu Boston College Jack Victor Parks College of the Holy Cross Thomas Lawrence Sasso Stonehill College Mingze Yan Northwestern University Rayana M. Petrone Lasell College Owen Schwartz Brown University Samantha Yard Boston University Chloe Pierson University of Alabama Zitong Shen University of Washington Alissa Yoon University of St. Andrews, Scotland Nicole H. Pietro Colby College Holly Silva Utica College Yujia Zhang New York University Lauren Power University of Massachusetts, Amherst Zachary B. Stolberg Northeastern University Yue Zhou Purdue University Fiona B. Price Dartmouth College Kevin Sullivan Saint Michael’s College

42 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 on the hilltop

WORCESTER ACADEMY New Trustees < MICHAL GRABIAS ’11

Michal Grabias is a senior associate in investment Concurrently, Mr. Grabias was the general banking at Barclay’s, covering the Power & Utilities manager of “The Hoya,” Georgetown University’s sector, which encompasses both traditional and newspaper of record, where Mr. Grabias led a renewable energy generation systems. Mr. Grabias 70-person business office covering sales, account- has worked on over $10 billion of financings, includ- ing, technology, marketing, corporate development, ing debt, equity, equity-linked securities, and merger and human resources. He also spent two years on & acquisition processes across three continents. the board of WGTB Georgetown radio as the direc- Previously, while a student at Georgetown tor of business, hosting a weekly radio show in University, Mr. Grabias was on the board of addition to his board responsibilities. directors of the Georgetown University Student Mr. Grabias has a B.S. from Georgetown Investment Fund (GUSIF), which at the time man- University, where he was inducted in Beta Gamma aged $800,000 in assets, as the director of trading Sigma, the international business honor society, & risk. He entered this role after being the portfolio and graduated magna cum laude with a double manager of the healthcare vertical within GUSIF, major in finance and operations & informa- managing $100,000; the healthcare portfolio grew 48 tion systems management along with a minor percent over his one-year tenure. During this time, in English focusing in film scriptwriting. orF Mr. Grabias instituted a new organization structure his work at Georgetown, he received both the and training program for incoming members to the Award for Achievement in Financial Services and healthcare vertical, which was so successful in Outstanding Leader of a Student Media Group. increasing both student engagement and portfolio Outside of school, Mr. Grabias received the Gold outcomes that the board subsequently mandated Level Presidential Volunteer Service Award, twice, every other sector vertical to imitate it; that struc- and recently ran the New York City Marathon as ture continues today. part of a fundraising campaign.

< COURTNEY CARR

Courtney Carr is a lawyer in the Wealth Management had a 45-year career at the school serving in various Group at Choate Hall & Stewart in Boston. Ms. Carr positions, including professor of history, director of provides comprehensive and personalized estate admissions, dean of faculty, and served on the board planning advice to high net worth individuals and of advisors and board of trustees. Currently, her families. In this capacity, she spends considerable mother is a professor at the college. time advising her clients on their lifetime giving and She has a B.A. in history and government from charitable planning. She serves as a professional Colby College (magna cum laude) and a J.D. from trustee on multi-generational family trusts for clients. Suffolk University Law School (summa cum laude). Ms. Carr grew up in Worcester, and currently lives Prior to joining Choate, she was an associate at with her husband, Mike, and three-year-old daugh- WilmerHale in Boston. Ms. Carr has served as an ter, Amelia (a WA hopeful), in Holden. She comes adjunct professor at Fisher College in Boston where from a family of educators—her father’s grandfather she taught business law and is a speaker on estate founded Nichols Junior College (now Nichols College) planning topics at Massachusetts Continuing Legal and served as its first president. Her grandfather Education and Boston Bar Association seminars. W

Worcester Academy 43 MEET HEAD MONITOR

Carlin Stewart ’20 by Katherine Morse

proctor just one door down invited me instilled discipline, compassion, and to go with her, and we became good strength in me as well as making me friends. I knew that I would regret not part of a community in which I will attempting to make my own impact. always feel comfortable. My teammates and coaches have created an incredible What has been your greatest environment for success. classroom experience at WA? The 20 Percent project in my freshman What do you hope will have biology class was a very rewarding changed at WA by your experience. From November through 20th Reunion? What do you April, we spent 20 percent of our time hope will be the same? in class individually researching top- I hope to see the boarding program ics we felt passionate about, even if expand. My worldview and awareness they were not a standard part of high of other cultures has greatly widened school biology. This was exciting, but I by being a member of the residential also found it very challenging to keep community, which encourages build- the hypothesis I was trying to prove ing relationships with people who in mind. Was I considering the right are different from yourself, especially variables? At the time, I was looking between domestic and international at the changing impact of infectious students. My first roommate, Stella Li diseases over time. I was trying to ’19, was from China, and we learned figure out if certain diseases evolved a lot from each other. Boarding gave to become more or less virulent, and me independence that challenged the whether medicines were getting stron- comfort I felt at home in the best way. ger. My teacher answered the majority I am pushed to be more self-sufficient, of my questions with bright, wide eyes but at the same time, I have many and the expression, “Give me more!” It resources to help when I need it. was somewhat frustrating at the time, One thing I hope remains is the dedi- but I am very grateful for the chal- cated time for extra help and projects lenge now. I learned my peers can be known as Cooperative and Collaborative an excellent resource, how important Learning (CCL). CCL is the time I cher- What are your goals as What motivated you to get involved planning is, and, most of all, I could ish most at WA. Without CCL, WA’s Head of the Board of Monitors? in student government? tackle any problem I encountered. academic environment would be vastly One of my goals this year for the Board Seeing the impact that student lead- different—my friends and family at other of Monitors is to increase our collabo- ers had in a personal way during my What other experience outside schools do not have this opportunity. ration with other leadership groups. first few days at AW set my course the classroom (other than the CCL has allowed my relationship with I hope we can get more students to become a student leader myself. Board of Monitors) has been teachers to grow significantly, whether involved in community events, expand When I first moved into Stoddard meaningful for you? I am pelting them with questions or on their ideas, and continue initiatives Hall as a freshman, the most daunt- Playing soccer from freshman year on simply sitting in their classrooms getting from last year, such as the Sharing Our ing thing was often the smallest, has been the most meaningful because some work done. W Stories program at Morning Meeting, like who can I sit with at breakfast. I can see my growth both as a player to increase community engagement. I never had to worry because the and as a teammate. Girls soccer has

44 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 on the hilltop Tricia MacKay-Monheim James Young

Elizabeth Goodenough

THREE WA FACULTY MEMBERS ARE

2019 O’Connell award recipients by Katherine Morse

No program, facility, or technology can replace the quality, committed teaching that is at the core of the Worcester Academy experience. This year, three Worcester Academy faculty members received the O’Connell Award in recognition of their teaching excellence and dedication. Among them were James Young, Tricia MacKay-Monheim, and Elizabeth Goodenough. A brief bio follows on each of the recipients.

James Young Tricia MacKay-Monheim Elizabeth Goodenough looks forward to exploring the world James Young, chair of the History and Tricia MacKay-Monheim, director of the Elizabeth Goodenough teaches 8th with a new group of students. Just as Social Sciences Department, teaches 9th Center for Learning, provides individual Grade Global Studies and 11th Grade she was inspired by her own high school grade history. Outside the classroom, he support to students with documented American Studies in History, while also history teacher, “I hope my own students is faculty advisor to the Black Student learning needs. She has a master’s coaching Middle School cross-country feel empowered to question, argue, and Union, a dorm parent in Stoddard Hall, degree in the study of learning disabili- and Model U.N. Always excited by the make connections in my classroom the and an advisor to the Upper School ties from Columbia University. “I have possibilities of a new school year, she way I did in his class.” W Model U.N. club. “Teachers who always been intrigued by very bright possessed an infectious intellectual students who don’t always learn in curiosity helped to ignite my own love ‘traditional’ ways, but who thrive in a The O’Connell Award is given annually, by vote of learning. I try to model the same for challenging environment. In the Center of the Worcester Academy faculty, to those teachers my students, engaging them with ques- for Learning, we have the opportunity to whose performance in the classroom and tions and issues that matter to their support students as they work to under- loyalty to the community are most exemplary. own lives and experiences.” stand how they learn. WA’s approach to project-based learning and our focus on The award recognizes the excellent teaching and a growth mindset allow students to be dedication of WA’s Andrew J. O’Connell, a member of successful in so many different ways.” the Worcester Academy Faculty from 1942–1974.

Worcester Academy 45 Brian Kondek of Webster, MA, science teacher, received a B.S. in biology from new faculty JOIN WORCESTER ACADEMY FAMILY by Katherine Morse the College of the Holy Cross (1989) and a master’s in natural sciences Worcester Academy welcomed a number of new excellent faculty for the 2019–2020 school year. Each of them, from Worcester Polytechnic Institute Ron Cino said, will contribute to the academic excellence and innovation that are the hallmarks of the WA experience. (1996). An experienced independent The following is a brief introduction to WA’s newest faculty members. schoolteacher, he comes to WA after almost 30 years at Bancroft School.

UPPER SCHOOL Daria Cenedella ’14 of Hopkinton, Brenna Kelly of Worcester, MA, college Cecily Pulver of Marlborough, MA, MA, English and Mandarin teacher, counselor, received a B.A. in global stud- science teacher, received a B.S. in Christopher Aguiar of Wallingford, CT, received her B.A. in English from ies from Providence College (2013) and animal science from Cornell University science teacher, received both a B.S. in Middlebury College (2019). WA is a M.Ed. in higher education (2016) from (2011) and a M.S. in biology from the environmental geoscience (2015) and a excited to welcome back this mul- Merrimack College. For the last three University of Southern California, where M.Ed. in secondary education, biology tilingual (Mandarin, Spanish, and years, she’s been working in the admis- she served as a laboratory instructor (2016) from Boston College. He has spent American Sign Language) alumna. sion office at the College of the Holy (2019). She spent several years over- the last three years teaching biology Cross, most recently as assistant director seas, teaching English and science in and environmental science at Choate. Aaron Going of Worcester, MA, college in charge of diversity and inclusion. China, Korea, and France, as well as counselor, received a B.S. in history from doing scientific research in Africa. Kelly Bubello of Leominster, MA, the College of the Holy Cross (2014). He Nate Hopkins of Astoria, NY, learn- science teacher, received her B.S. in comes to WA from Roxbury Prep High ing specialist, received a B.A. in English Julie Silva of West Boylston, MA, biotechnology from Worcester State School in Boston where he was a college from Trinity College (2014) and a M.Ed. math teacher, received a B.S. in University (2015) and has experience counselor and an assistant basketball in special education (2018) from Hunter mathematics and mathematics edu- in both pharmaceutical labs and the coach. He also worked with Bottom Line, College. He has worked at several New cation from Syracuse University. An classroom. She comes to WA from a nonprofit that guides students through York schools as a mathematics and experienced teacher and basketball St. Peter Marian Junior-Senior High the college experience from admissions literacy specialist, as well as developed coach, she has taught the full range School. Before a career change, she had through graduation. online programming. of high school math from Algebra I to extensive experience teaching middle AP Calculus for the last 10 years. and high school performing arts. Emily Taradash of Tiverton, RI, arts coordinator and costume design BONNIE WALKER LEADING IN teacher, received a B.A. in theater from EQUITY AND INCLUSION the University of Vermont (2006) and M.F.A. in costume design from UMass Bonnie Walker has joined the Worcester Amherst (2014). She has worked as a Academy Executive Leadership Team as costume designer and costume shop interim director of equity and inclusion. She supervisor in a variety of professional comes to WA after nearly 15 years at Worcester and educational theater settings. Last Polytechnic Institute, most recently as execu- year, she taught part-time at WA. tive director of diversity and inclusion strategy. Ms. Walker, who is from Millbury, MA, received a B.A. in sociology (2001) and a M.A. MIDDLE SCHOOL in professional communications (2002) from Clark University. Most recently, she was a Kyle Layne-Allen of Hyde Park, fellow of the National Inclusive Excellence MA, English teacher, received a B.A. Leadership Academy (2018), a leadership in English and classics from Colby development program for professionals in College (2013) and a M.Ed. in teach- the diversity, equity, and inclusion fields. ing from the University of Pennsylvania (2019). Well-versed in independent

46 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 on the hilltop

school life, he comes to Worcester WORCESTER ACADEMY WELCOMES NEW ASSOCIATE HEAD OF SCHOOL Academy after several years teach- ing, coaching, and working in admission and development at his by Katherine Morse alma mater, the Roxbury Latin School. Doug Poskitt to Hilltop

Christine Murray of Morristown, NJ, As the new school year gets underway, learning specialist, received a B.A. in the Hilltop is alive with activity and full theater from Drew University (1994) and of new faces—teachers and staff, as two masters’ degrees from Bank Street well as new students from around the School of Education: an M.S. in childhood corner and around the globe. One new general education and an M.S. in literacy person who is involved in almost every (both in 2009). She also has advanced aspect of Worcester Academy life is certification in special education from Doug Poskitt, associate head of school. the Relay Graduate School of Education Mr. Poskitt joined the leadership team (2018). She comes to WA after more than at WA after more than 20 years of inde- a decade serving as a learning special- pendent school experience, teaching ist/academic intervention teacher at and serving in a variety of administra- Harlem Link Charter School in New York tive positions at both boarding and day City, where she was also the school’s schools. Most recently, he was upper coordinator of special education and school head at Cape Cod Academy. Mr. English language learner services. Poskitt’s primary focus is academics and curriculum—you might call him the chief academic officer—but do not OTHER FACULTY get the idea that he is just in an office. He is also part of the Residential Life Abigail Abena Mensah of Creve program, advising a group of 10th grade Coeur, MO, assistant director of admis- students, and teaching a social studies sion for multicultural recruitment, elective in Genocide Studies. received a B.A. in sociology from Since Mr. Poskitt arrived over the UMass Amherst (2015) and a M.Ed. summer, he has “hit the ground in educational policy and leader- listening,” getting to know the WA ship studies from Boston University community. He sees the full living (2017). She has experience with both organism that is Worcester Academy, high school and college students and animated by roughly 600 students, and is returning to Massachusetts after he is excited to be at a school with several years at Maryville University many diverse parts, yet united and near St. Louis, MO, where she worked rooted in its mission. in residential life and development. Mr. Poskitt received a B.A. in history and education from Bucknell University Kelly Rizy, RN, P.’21,’23 of Fiskdale, in 1993 and an M.S. in secondary school MA, director of health services, has a B.S. social studies education from the in nursing from Worcester State College University of Pennsylvania in 1994. He (2000) and holds Massachusetts School and his wife, Krista, who is also an edu- Nurse Licensure. She has worked in a cator, have four children: two in college variety of school and community set- and two in high school. W tings, coming to WA from the town of Charlton school system. She is a cur- rent Worcester Academy parent. W

Worcester Academy 47 on the hilltop

expecting the usual, ‘He’s doing fine,’ or A graduate of the University of New ‘He’ll catch up, he’s a boy,’ or a similar Hampshire with a B.A. in anthropology comment. Instead, I heard, ‘Your son and archaeology, Mrs. Plickert spent thinks like a scientist.’ Wow! My son, the earlier part of her professional life who was afraid to talk, was now offering as an archaeologist and as a licensed practical nurse. She returned to graduate school in 1997, earning an M.Ed. from “I’ve come to understand from my Lesley University with a concentration in experience at Worcester Academy Middle School science. that the best teachers are not She says she made the decision to necessarily the ones who impart the become a teacher while hiking more than most knowledge but are those who 500 miles of the Appalachian Trail, dur- ing which time she reflected upon what effectively allow the students to she wanted to do most. She came off the bring out the best in themselves.” hike determined to become a teacher. —Michael Tien ’68 Middle school was the age group she chose to focus on. thoughts and opinions in class and was Now a veteran teacher, Ms. Plickert confident and proud to be a part of the has brought a unique mix of knowl- Worcester Academy Middle School. He edge and hands-on experience to the even made the honor roll. classroom. Perhaps it is her medical “Ms. Plickert may not be the loudest experience that helps make her such a or the most noticeable when you enter a keen observer, almost a diagnostician, room, but I felt her impact should not go of individual student needs and learn- unrecognized,” she said, explaining why ing styles. Or, perhaps it is the careful she nominated the science teacher. dogged sleuthing she did as a one-time An Upper School dad, whose child archaeologist that enables her to craft graduated last May, feels much the lessons with seemingly familiar items same. In his nomination, he credited (such as trees and hands) that become TIEN STUDENT IMPACT AWARD RECIPIENT: Mrs. Plickert with preparing his son for exciting pathways to discovery. In success in Worcester Academy’s Upper short, she welcomes students into the School—and in life in general. “It was Worcester Academy community, as well clear to my wife and me that his expe- as the world of scientific thinking. by Katherine Morse Sharon Plickert rience with Mrs. Plickert built a solid “I love teaching and being part of foundation that is still evident as he the Middle School,” Mrs. Plickert says. Michael Tien’68 spent just one year (and beyond), has been a teacher at prepares to go off to college,” he wrote. “These kids have so much energy and at Worcester Academy, but it made a Worcester Academy since 1998. Over the Mrs. Plickert, one of the many there is so much going on with them at huge impact. In 2008, he established a years, countless parents have expressed wonderful WA teachers who embody this age. They are trying to navigate who special award given every year based their appreciation for the depth of her Worcester Academy’s mission and they want to be, and to be more inde- on nominations from students, parents, subject knowledge, for her commitment values, has a reputation for making pendent, so they waver between still and alumni—The Tien Student Impact as a student advisor, and for her caring learning fun and engaging. According needing their parents and pulling away.” Award—celebrating a teacher or staff countenance, especially when students to Mrs. Plickert, she enjoys “finding the “It’s a privilege to be there with them member who has made a positive dif- seem to need it most. story, moving from one small observa- on this journey,” she says. W ference in the lives of WA students. The According to one current Middler mom tion, artifact or idea and connecting it to 2019 winner is longtime WA Middle who nominated Mrs. Plickert for the Tien the broader context. Congratulations to Mrs. Plickert and to School science teacher Sharon Plickert. Award, the WA educator made all the “Learning is not just an accumulation all those nominated for the Tien Student Mrs. Plickert, who is well known and difference in setting the tone for a great of facts but is appreciating the process Impact Award. You are making a differ- much appreciated by students and their Worcester Academy experience to come. of learning. Knowing when to reflect and ence and Worcester Academy could not parents in the Middle School division “At our first parent conferences, I was when to ask more questions,” she says. fulfill its mission without you!

48 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 news from Worcester Academy Middle School the middle: reading, writing, and googling? WA’S Middle School Goes Beyond Collecting Information to Focus on Social and Emotional Learning and Shared Values by Katherine Morse

The Worcester Academy Middle School the confidence to ask more questions. providing opportunities to learn, grow, opportunities may seem new. Along is an integral part of WA, but that does All of these are important elements in serve, and succeed in order to equip with academic content needed for today, not mean its students are small high the transition from childhood to ado- students appropriately. Some of these students must be trained to successfully schoolers. They are unique. Pushing lescence. Worcester Academy’s Middle opportunities may sound familiar, such tackle the challenges of the future. the envelope; exploring new things; School seeks to channel the unique as receiving personal attention from Key to that training is Social not finding all the answers but finding energy and concerns of this age by experienced faculty members, and other and Emotional Learning (SEL), an

8th Graders at their 2019 ceremony celebrating the successful completion of Middle School at Worcester Academy.

Worcester Academy 49 the middle

umbrella-term for five skill areas that help a mouse, without context or guidance, it education to help them develop the skills > Digital Citizenship determine not only how we learn but how becomes especially important to have a to build their awareness of, and ability to > Health and Human Development effective we are in applying what we set of learning tools that are not limited interact with, an increasingly diverse and > Cultural Competence/CAFE learn in school and in life. While WA is to a certain subject. Remember the prov- complicated world. They also need strong > Study Skills committed to incorporating SEL concepts erb about the difference between giving communities with shared values, such as throughout its programs, it is often associ- a man a fish versus teaching him how WA’s Core Values, to give a positive and Throughout all seminars and ated with the Middle School years where to fish? Metaphorically, it might be said healthy context to their learning.” classes, questions are asked that students seem to grow up before our eyes! that today’s catch of information has WA’s Core Values of Honor, Respect, bring to life Worcester Academy’s The five skill areas are: self-awareness; never been so abundant, but the wisdom Community, Personal Growth and Core Values. For example, Worcester self-management (dealing with stress, of how to prepare and consume it in a Challenge are best understood and Academy’s motto, Achieve the controlling impulses, and setting goals); healthy way is often lacking. appreciated when they are applied Honorable, becomes more concrete as social awareness (respect for others, “Kids are exposed to ideas, styles and to specific situations—becoming true students grapple with, “What does an recognizing different perspectives, and behaviors that they might not be quite guidelines for life, rather than simply honorable choice look like?” understanding expectations); relationship ready to understand,” says Head of the lofty sentiments. This year, in addition to Having a framework of important skills; and responsible decision-making. Middle School Rebecca Yacono. “Therein the standard academic classes, students questions will allow even our commu- Given a world that makes so much lies the importance of Social and Emotional will be participating in Core Values nity’s youngest citizens to be confident information easily available at a click of Learning: students need specific Seminars focusing on: and discerning learners. W

Middle School Does Things its own way In keeping with the Middle School’s unique place as an integral yet distinct part of Worcester Academy, the Middle School has its own twist on WA traditions.

> Board of Monitors > Parent Conferences > Travel > Athletic Competition The Middle School Board of Monitors is In addition to the traditional Parent- While Middle School students do not and Fun made up of 7th and 8th grade students Teacher conferences where parents learn travel as far as Upper School stu- Middle School has its own tradi- who have as keen a concern for their how their children are doing in school, dents, who are coming from around tional rivals with nearby independent classmates as any older students. They the Middle School also has student-led the globe, they do have opportunities schools, especially Applewild and Fay. write speeches about why they want Listening Conferences specifically for to see new places, whether a trip to to serve and participate in BOM tap- teachers to listen as parents explain Nature’s Classroom in Rhode Island > Location ping. However, they lead through their what they should know about each child. or to Washington, DC. Our 8th grad- The Middle School does almost focus on school spirit and student life, ers head off on the most exciting everything in Rader Hall, Worcester serving as an idea generator within > Ambassadors trek of their lives: Outward Bound’s Academy’s newest building the Middle School, rather than having a Middlers are proud to show off their NYC Urban Expedition provides the (dedicated in 2001), named for a part in school governance or discipline. school; ambassadors trained by the backdrop for discovering firsthand couple who did almost everything Admission Office show prospective what shapes an urban landscape. during their time at WA—Harold Middle School families around Rader “Dutch” and Dorothy Rader. W Hall and share their WA experiences.

50 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 past, present, and future— sustained success in girls basketball! by Katherine Morse

Worcester Academy’s Varsity Girls Basketball McDonald’s All-American, the first athlete in community service work, as well as conducted Team has been on a roll. As a lasting model WA history to be so honored, as well as being a basketball clinic. of success, they are consistently at the ranked the third-best recruit in the country by ”It was really a wonderful trip to see Aliyah top of New England Prep School Athletic ESPN, which brought many top college coaches in her home,” Coach Sherry Levin said, “and Council (NEPSAC) rankings as two-time to campus. Aliyah played on several teams that what we could give back to a community that defending champions. This year, they will represented the United States in international is still feeling it from the hurricane. A player like embark on the quest for a third title since competition. Last summer, after graduation, Aliyah, as a person first, and as a teammate and Sherry Levin returned as head coach for the she helped lead the USA Basketball Under-19 as a competitor, doesn’t come along often.” 2016–2017 season. Ms. Levin led two teams to Women’s National Team to a gold medal at the Fast forward to November 2019. While championships during her previous coaching FIBA World Cup in Bangkok, Thailand. Aliyah is adjusting to college life and start- stint at WA from 2001 to 2008. The team has As impressive as Aliyah’s success has ing her first season at the University of South had an impressive 66–5 record over that time. been, it cannot be measured solely in points, Carolina, the Hilltoppers are getting ready for The 2019–2020 season will be a test of their rebounds, or blocks. Nor can it be prop- another exciting season. The team will have transition game as several key players have erly evaluated as a personal achievement. a mix of returning players and strong new tal- graduated or sustained injuries that may keep Basketball is a team sport; each player needs ent. Special recognition goes to guard Adara them off the court. to work confidently with others. Coach Levin Groman ’20 , who played for Coach Levin on Though many players contributed talent and firmly believes that success comes from creat- the U.S. team that won the gold medal at the dedication to WA’s recent success, understand- ing a culture of determination and character so 15th European Maccabi Games in Budapest, ably, much of the attention, especially from that each player can reach her potential. That Hungary this summer. outside media, had gone to Aliyah Boston philosophy was brought to life in a trip the “I was so very proud of the way Adara played ’19. She is a great story. Originally from the team took last November. It was not to a pre- hard. She led the team by example and repre- U.S. Virgin Islands, she not only became WA’s season basketball showcase. It was a service sented Worcester Academy well,” Levin said. all-time leading scorer, she was Gatorade trip over Thanksgiving to Aliyah’s home island It sounds like the transition game is well Massachusetts player of the year three times. of St. Thomas, where the entire team read to underway and we can look forward to more

WA ATHLETICS WA During her senior year, Aliyah was named a young children at a school and performed other quality basketball on the Hilltop. W

Worcester Academy 51 how big is your neighborhood? by Katherine Morse

tutoring students from nearby elemen- At the end of August, Jamie Sullivan tary schools. During the basketball received the Thomas Jefferson Award season, Wednesdays are game days; from Worcester Public Schools for his the rest of school year, Wednesdays volunteer leadership. He was nomi- are service days for the basketball nated by the principal of Union Hill team. It’s then they are building a School, a public elementary school common sense of purpose and disci- located across the street from WA on pline, truly Achieving the Honorable Dorchester Street. The award recognized as they go, or, as Coach Sullivan says, the many activities that he and the “doing their best for the school as they basketball team spearhead throughout do their best for the community.” the year, from a Halloween parade to This summer, those elements were homework club to providing 300 gifts clearly on display as WA and Coach to students at Union Hill and Vernon Sullivan hosted the 4th Stride Your Hill elementary schools through the Passion basketball camp. Stride Your Worcester Academy Christmas Wishes Passion is an organization developed Program, which grants specific wishes by alumnus Christophe Varidel ’10, meaningful to each child. Every school who played varsity basketball at WA in the city nominates someone; this under Ed Reilly (current director of year, he was the only nominee who athletics), as well as Jamie Sullivan. was not a public school employee. W

Seeing the potential in kids Christopher Varidel ’10 went on to have great success in college basketball as a member of Florida Gulf Coast University’s team which made the Sweet 16 round in the 2013 NCAA tournament. He later played pro basketball in Europe. Stride Your Passion promotes youth basketball in Switzerland but also has recently expanded to Spain and to the West African country of Guinea-Bissau. A two- week camp he runs at WA each summer gives more than 70 European teens the chance to work on their basketball skills and prepare for possible college in the United States: both academically—by taking SAT prep classes—and athletically. “Christophe sees some potential that kids who are exposed to the American game may benefit the way he did from a basketball standpoint,” Ed Reilly said, “but, more importantly, they may benefit from an educational stand- point and becoming a citizen of the world by trying different things.” Jamie Sullivan, Worcester Academy’s connections and real-life teamwork Daily experience with American basketball coaching and competi- head varsity boys basketball coach, is powers both his coaching style and tion culminated in a showcase to play in front of college coaches. Also a neighborhood guy in the best sense: his commitment to volunteerism. The included were community service activities such as bringing unserved he remains rooted here in the Union Hill question, “Are you an excuse-maker or a food from the WA dining hall to St. John’s Food for the Poor program, just neighborhood surrounding Worcester problem-solver?” echoes in his sideline as Coach Sullivan does with the WA team during the school year. Academy where he grew up (you can huddles when he challenges players to “They’re beautiful kids,” Sullivan said. “They’re here to learn, they’re actually see his mother’s house from be creative and work together, but it fits here to work, they’re here to see things they do not see in Switzerland, and south campus), yet never limited by just as well when he leads the team in they’re here to have fun. We try to give them that whole experience.” it. His appreciation of community volunteering at a local food pantry or

52 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 WA athletics

June 8, 2020 Save the Date!

Join alumni and friends of Worcester Academy as they “tee it up with Dee” to benefit the Rowe Family Scholarship Fund on Monday, June 8 at Rhode Island Country Club. This special endowed scholarship fund was established in 1998 by Worcester Academy alumni, colleagues, and friends of the Rowe family as a lasting tribute to Academy alumnus Donald E. “Dee” Rowe ’47 and his family. This fund awards scholarships annually to students of outstanding character who, in addition to participation in athletics, exhibit strong leadership Rowe family scholarship tournament both at school and in the community.

Worcester Academy alumni and friends students of outstanding character, who, Many thanks to Dee Rowe ’47 (and Breakfast • Lunch • Golf Carts • gathered in June at the Rhode Island in addition to participation in athletics, family!); the Rowe Family Scholarship Prizes • Cocktail Reception & Dinner Country Club in Barrington, RI, to exhibit strong leadership both at school Committee (especially Bob Hall ’62, Not a golfer? support the Rowe Family Scholarship. and in the community. This year, the chairman; the golfers and event par- Please join us for dinner. Golfers enjoyed a beautiful day on the event raised more than $30,000. ticipants; and the many individuals course, followed by dinner, as well as The 2019 Rowe Family scholarship and businesses who sponsored holes speeches by scholarship recipients recipients were Class of 2020 student and made gifts in support of the Rowe Invitations will be mailed in April. and others. athletes Asa Floyd, Lucas LaRoche, Family Scholarship! Stay tuned for more For more information, call Ursula Arello Since 1998, the Rowe Family Samantha Scott, and Ciara Wall. information on next year’s tournament, at 508-459-6927, or email Scholarship has awarded nearly 70 Congratulations to these four deserving scheduled for June 8, 2020 at the Rhode [email protected]. scholarships to Worcester Academy scholar athletes! Island Country Club. W

Worcester Academy 53 Varsity Club honors Jacqueline Odell ’92 & Daryl Smith ’88

The Worcester Academy Varsity JACQUELINE ODELL ’92 Club honored two alumni this year Jacqueline Odell ’92 excelled as student- at its annual Varsity Club Dinner. athlete while at WA, participating in Those receiving 2019 Varsity Club three sports (soccer, basketball, and Awards were marine affairs executive track & field) and earning eight varsity Jacqueline Odell ’92 and IT executive letters. Jacquie was MVP of the basket- Daryl Smith ’88. The honorees spoke ball team and a two-time MVP of the to WA students about character, goal track team. Her basketball coach at WA, setting, teamwork, and the special rela- Julie Berberian, says, “Jacquie was an tionships that began on the Hilltop and exemplary leader, a fierce competitor have lasted throughout life. and one of the best multiple sport ath- “Both of these individuals are mod- letes to play here at Worcester Academy. els of what it means to ‘Achieve the She brought a sense of purpose and com- Honorable,’ ” Athletic Director Ed mitment to our team on a daily basis.” Reilly said at the dinner. “We are After WA, she attended Providence shout out indebted to them for sharing their College where she majored in indi- experiences and life’s wisdom.” vidualized biology and environmental to James Proctor! Nearly every year since 1965, studies. After college, Jacquie worked Worcester Academy has honored a as a graduate assistant in the Marine A special shout out to James Proctor, varsity boys soccer coach, who graduate who, while at the Academy, Affairs Department at the University was recently featured in “New England Soccer Journal” in an article excelled in sports, and then has gone of Rhode Island. A career in marine chronicling his journey from player in England to coach in New England, on to experience success in athletics life and best practices for the commer- and his successful 20-year history here at Worcester Academy, coaching and in life. The honoree is selected from cial fishing industry had begun. She WA to a 220–69–49 record as of the start of this season. W nominations submitted by alumni and earned a master-of-arts degree in other members of the school community. marine affairs from URI in 2004.

54 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 WA athletics

For the past 15 years, Jacquie has including Xerox and Verizon. To this been the executive director for the day, he remains in the corporate world Northeast Seafood Coalition located as vice-president of sales for an IT in Gloucester, MA, responsible for the telecom company in New Jersey. Daryl scoreboard day-to-day operations of the coali- also founded and remains president & tion, a nonprofit organization that CEO of D-Trained, a company seeking fall 2018 represents commercial fishing busi- to improve the athletic performance teams wins losses ties other nesses that participate in the federal levels of elite high school, college and Varsity Football 3 5 0 northeast multispecies fishery. professional athletes. To date, over 500 JV Football 0 2 0 In addition to successfully manag- D-Trained participants have competed at Varsity Boys Soccer 15 2 4 Lost in finals to Berkshire ing the coalition’s operational budget, the highest level of basketball, including JV Boys Soccer 5 5 3 Jacquie has prepared and submitted the NBA and the WNBA. Additionally, Varsity Girls Soccer 13 5 2 Lost in semifinals to Noble JV/MS Girls Soccer 2 4 4 over 60 written public comments to for several years, D-Trained served as Varsity Field Hockey 8 12 0 proposed management actions under- a featured sports trainer for the Jordan Varsity Volleyball 13 7 0 taken by the New England Fishery Brand and Nike Basketball worldwide JV Volleyball 11 7 0 Management Council and has been and his clients have reached the pin- Varsity Boys Cross Country 3 17 0 perhaps the region’s strongest advocate nacle of the basketball world at both Varsity Girls Cross Country 16 3 1 NEPSTA D-2 Championships 2nd for preservation and maintenance of leg- the national and international level. islation protecting the Fishing Industry. PAST HONOREES winter 2018–2019 DARYL SMITH ’88 Past Varsity Club honorees include: teams wins losses ties other Daryl Smith ’88 was an exceptional Dave Gavitt, former general manager JV Boys Basketball 0 16 0 basketball player at Worcester Academy of the Boston Celtics; Donald E. “Dee” Varsity Boys Basketball 20 7 0 Lost to Vermont Academy in quarterfinals and beyond. During his junior year, he Rowe ’47, WA director of athletics Varsity 2 Boys Basketball 7 10 0 Lost to St. Thomas More in prep 6 semifinals averaged 27 points per game while lead- and basketball coach; Bill Toomey ’57, Varsity Girls Basketball 24 1 0 Won NEPSAC Class AA Championship, ing the Hilltoppers to a Class A NEPSAC Olympic decathlon champion; Armand defeating Tabor for 2nd straight year title and earning MVP honors. In his LaMontagne ’58, noted sculptor; Steve Varsity Boys Hockey 6 21 0 Lost to Pingree in quarterfinals of Holt Tournament senior year, Daryl captained the team Adelman ’64, Boston College hall of Varsity Girls Hockey 14 10 3 Lost to Brooks in NEPSAC DII semifinals that went 18–3 and he earned a basket- famer; Bill Reynolds ’64, longtime sports Varsity Boys Swimming 1 6 0 NEPSAC Championships-7th place Varsity Girls Swimming 4 5 0 NEPSAC Championships-6th place ball scholarship to Rutgers University. writer and columnist; Chet Gladchuk Varsity Boys Skiing – – – CMSL-8th place/NEPSAC-8th place Class C Daryl would go on to captain the ’69, U.S. Naval Academy director of ath- Varsity Girls Skiing – – – CMSL-7th place/NEPSAC-4th place Class C Scarlet Knights in his senior year, cap- letics; Bill Cooke ’70, Green Bay Packers; Varsity Wrestling 1 20 0 ping off a career that saw his team Yvonne Goldsberry ’78, pioneer of capture two conference championships women’s athletics at WA and a member and compete in four consecutive post- of the Brown University Hall of Fame; spring 2019 season tournaments. The 1991 team Rick Carlisle ’79, head coach, Dallas lead by Daryl was the last Rutgers mens Mavericks; Stephanie Abodeely Carlson teams wins losses ties other team to reach the NCAA Basketball ’80, former head women’s soccer coach JV/MS Baseball 3 5 0 Tournament. He finished his career at at WPI; Joe Philbin ’80, former head Varsity Baseball 16 5 0 Blackburn Tournament semifinals, lost to Exeter Varsity Golf 3 4 0 Rutgers as a Top 50 Scorer and in the coach, Miami Dolphins; Donn Nelson Varsity Boys Lacrosse 5 9 0 top 20 all-time in steals. He prided ’82, general manager, Dallas Mavericks; Varsity Girls Lacrosse 9 6 0 WNEPSLA Tournament loss to Williston himself on his ability to be a team player Mike Wilhelm ’86, former assistant Varsity Boys Tennis 6 5 0 and to always be a positive booster coach, Chicago Bulls; Mike Malone Varsity Girls Tennis 4 5 0 of his teammates and his school. ’90, head coach, Denver Nuggets; Varsity Boys Track/Field 4 13 0 NEPSTA D-2 Championships-10th place After graduating and playing overseas Erica Sobel ’98, National Pro Fast Pitch Varsity Girls Track/Field 12 9 0 NEPSTA D-2 Championships-11th place in Italy and Croatia, Daryl success- League player; and Dr. Daniela Faas Varsity Softball 4 13 0 fully entered the business world as a ’00, teacher and researcher at Harvard sales professional where he has thrived University and the Massachusetts EDITOR’S NOTE: If an Upper School team is not listed in the chart above, it did not compete, with the exception of Crew. For example, there was no JV Lacrosse. There was a Crew team; it simply did not fit easily into a format for years at Fortune 500 companies, Institute of Technology. W of wins and losses due to boat configurations, race distances, etc.

Worcester Academy 55 YOUR LEGACY LIVES HERE ‘WORCESTER GIRL’ MAKES BEQUEST TO WA IN GRATITUDE FOR SETTING LIFE COURSE by Caroline G. Reich P’06,’08

By the time she reached middle school, herself into soccer, basketball, and earned her M.S.W. from Loyola University interests, to reach my potential as a stu- Katherine Dick Brosier ’79, a self-described cross country and ended up playing Chicago and began a 25-year career as a dent, writer, and thinker. WA provided nerd, was bored with school. Kathy throughout her time on the Hilltop. licensed clinical social worker and as a advantages in life for which I am very loved growing up on the West Side of “I loved playing, meeting girls from pastor’s wife and mother of two grown grateful. I also liked being able to sup- Worcester—the eighth of nine siblings— other classes, and being part of the children. She is in her 21st year as an port a Worcester institution, because but she needed more academic challenge. team experience, and would never instructor in child and adolescent devel- I’m a ‘Worcester girl,’ ” Kathy declares. “I’m forever grateful that my mother have even tried sports had it not been opment at Northern Illinois University. By directing a percentage of her estate recognized that I needed something dif- for Mr. Strogoff’s encouragement,” she to WA, Kathy plays an important part ferent. I still remember she and my father says. Kathy is also grateful for lifelong MAKING A BEQUEST IS in assuring that WA continues to offer taking me for my interview at Worcester friendships and for tough, excellent SIMPLE, ‘FEELS GREAT’ opportunities for young people from Academy with Headmaster Bloom,” she teachers like Donald Bloom, Elaine “The Academy does a terrific job of Worcester—“like me.” W says. It was the start of an academic and Willey Bloom, and Howard Shainheit, developing and educating adolescents, personal experience that would open up a who emphasized the importance of rig- which is really difficult—and valuable,” If WA made a difference in your life or world of possibilities for Kathy. Receiving orous academics and encouraged a love Kathy says. So, when she and husband, in the life of your child or loved one, financial aid made attending WA possible for learning and challenging oneself. Dan, did their estate planning recently, Your Own Legacy Can Live Here on the for her and her family. After WA, Kathy headed to Yale she remembered receiving a postcard Hilltop! For information, contact Director University, earning a degree in archi- about making a planned gift to WA. “In of Planned Giving Frank Callahan ’71 at LESSONS FROM HILLTOP tecture, although by the time she thinking about where I wanted to make [email protected] CARRY THROUGHOUT LIFE graduated, she knew that following the a difference, I really felt that WA freed or at 508-754-5302 x135; or visit As a new freshman, Kathy landed in long family line of architects was not me in so many ways, to explore new worcesteracademy.org/plannedgiving. in an English class where her first for her. During a two-year stint with the assigned paper earned her a “C,” Peace Corps in Zaire (now Republic of which was fairly horrifying to this “A” Congo) as a math teacher, she developed “In thinking about where I wanted to make a student. “I realized that I was going a strong interest in human behavior. difference, I really felt that WA freed me in so many to have to up my game academi- Returning to Worcester for a time, Kathy cally, but the teacher was right there met and married her husband, the Rev. ways, to explore new interests, to reach my potential to support me,” she recalls. In those Daniel Brosier, who was studying for the as a student, writer, and thinker. WA provided first weeks at WA, faculty member ministry at the First Unitarian Church advantages in life for which I am very grateful. I also Joel Strogoff ’69, approached Kathy on Main Street in Worcester. Together, and suggested that she could do they headed to his first church posting liked being able to support a Worcester institution, more than just academics—that she at the Unitarian Universalist Church in because I’m a ‘Worcester girl.” might also try sports, too. Kathy threw Elgin, IL, and ended up staying. Kathy —Katherine Dick Brosier ’79

56 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 Rohan Krishnan ’20

RECIPIENT OF THE BERNON JUNIOR SERVICE AWARD by Vy Nguyen ’19

Worcester Academy’s Rohan Krishnan ’20 students achievements as well as Younger students are more recep- has committed to donate $7,500 of the is recipient of the 2019 Bernon help to develop a new generation tive to ideas that encourage us to prize money to Ansaar of Worcester, Junior Service Award. of passionate philanthropists. pursue tolerance and acceptance.” an organization established to help The Bernon Junior Service Award Rohan Krishnan ’20 is a fitting award He created a curriculum for “Arabian refugees by providing food, shel- was established by Alan J. Bernon recipient. After having experienced an Nights” classes at Framingham library ter, and educational opportunities ’72 to honor a member of a Junior immersive language trip to Morocco to to teach young students about culture in English, civics, and other impor- Class for outstanding contributions learn Arabic and encountering many and languages of the Middle East. “I tant and practical matters. W to other people through community examples of hatred against Middle believe my volunteer work was the service. Each year, the award comes Eastern people, he really wanted to first step to creating a more informed Congratulations to Rohan, and thanks with a $10,000 prize: $2,500 for the do something to make a difference. world where pernicious assumptions to Alan and Carol Bernon for funding student, and $7,500 for the charity According to Rohan, “I decided that about groups of people could be decon- the award and encouraging a new of his or her choosing. Mr. Bernon’s the best way to combat ignorance structed and dismissed.” Rohan says. generations of young philanthropists hope is that the prize will recognize was through educating our youth. As a recipient of the award, Rohan and community volunteers!

Sharing Worcester Academy Annual Fund / www.worcesteracademy.org/givenow Through the innovations the joy of discovery of dedicated teachers, we deliver on our mission to cultivate progressive, forward-thinking leaders with a global perspective. It is the Academy’s Annual Fund that lifts us from good to great. Help us by making your contribution to the Annual Fund today!

Worcester Academy 57 WORCESTER ACADEMY FOUNDERS DAY a time to celebrate WA’s unique history

The Worcester Academy community alumni gave gifts of gratitude on 2–28 celebrated Founders Day, Feb. 28, 2019 in (Feb. 28) to help us meet our goal. a tradition that honors the unique history Worcester Academy is one of the that has made the WA community the nation’s most outstanding independent wonderful place it is to live and learn. schools, with a tradition of excellence This year, the Old School Bell was rung as that continues to serve new generations Middle Schoolers took center stage with a of students 185 years after its founding. play about the founding of the Academy. We thank all those families who trust us In conjunction with the celebration, to offer an unmatched educational expe- Worcester Academy alumni, students, rience, and we thank those who made parents, staff, and friends showed gifts on Founders Day, or at other times their appreciation for WA, honoring in the last year, in support of our mission. both today’s students and faculty as With your support, we continue well as those who preceded them to inspire girls and boys to “Achieve over the last 185 years. More than 228 the Honorable.” W

58 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 in alumni news

STUART SHAPIRO recently published a book, “Identifi Yourself,” that is 1952 1959 quite reflective of his life and tailored 1980 to young graduates about life and JOHN WOLF was recently an extra for a the need for “creative courage” current HBO TV series. in the creative world. See more at https://www.amazon.com/identifi- yourself-journey-creative-courage/ dp/1947637886.

1962 Coach Thomas Blackburn with son, Tom ’80, and grandson, Ben. JACK DUNHAM is an active musician. He works daily, during the summer/fall 1969 THOMAS BLACKBURN made a trip months in New England and in South ORR SHEPHERD visited campus back to the Hilltop in springtime to Florida during the winter months, where JULIAN HATT retired more than 10 for the first time since graduation. watch WA baseball take on BB&N at he has a residence in West Palm Beach. years ago to Southern California. He credits Worcester Academy with Gaskill Field. It was a WA family base- providing him a fine education that ball reunion of sorts as he was joined helped him both in his studies at WPI by his parents (Tom and Peg Blackburn) and in his business career. He is retired and his brother, JIM ’85. Tom says, “It and lives in Woburn, MA. was great to see a sparkling Blackburn 1964 1973 Diamond—Chet Chaisson and John Ricciardi would have been proud. Bonus KEN PAYSON won twice at New JIM GALLAGHER visted campus in was watching my son, Ben, throw two Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon May and reflected on his memories of scoreless innings to preserve a BB&N in the Touring 4 Class in his Mazda Miata WA and the many friendships that he victory. First time I remember rooting 1956 this past May. Ken has assumed the established during his years on the against the Hilltoppers!” points lead in the New England Region Hilltop. Jim left after sophomore year NEW HAMPSHIRE STATE SENATOR of the Sports Car Club of America. but still loves to keep in touch. LOUIS C. D’ALLESANDRO was fea- tured in the “Capitol Ideas Magazine,” a publication of the Council of State MARK SAVOLIS was recently featured Governments (CSG), our nation’s only in the Holy Cross Magazine upon his organization serving all three branches retirement as head of College Archives of state government. CSG is a region- 1966 and Special Collections at the College of based forum that fosters the exchange of the Holy Cross. insights and ideas to help state officials Congratulations to MICHAEL REIDY shape public policy. Senator D’Allesandro on two recent book releases, “On the serves as the CSG national chair. In Edge of Dreams and Nightmares” and 2018, he published a book titled “Lou “Portland Place.” Michael’s collection LESLIE JACOBSON KAY and RACHEL D’Allesandro: Lion of the New Hampshire of short stories, “Undivulged Crimes,” PADULA-SHUFELT ’94 connected while Senate and Thoughts for Presidential recently won a “Chill with a Book Leslie was playing the role of Madeline Hopefuls.” For more information, see: (www.chillwithabook.com) Readers’ Mitchell in an opera, “Three Decembers,” www.csg.org/pubs/capitolideas Award.” This is Michael’s second book at the Boston Playwright’s Theater in to win such an award. Boston earlier this year. It turns out that Rachel created all of the wigs for the show! Leslie and Rachel had a wonderful time reminiscing about Warner Theater and how much they both benefited from the arts at Worcester Academy!

Worcester Academy 59 This spring, the FIRST (For the MICHAEL GRENON is on the board of Inspiration and Recognition of Science directors for the Health Foundation of 1982 and Technology) Robotics Competition Central Massachusetts. recognized JAMES LOCKMAN at the Detroit Championship as the Outstanding Volunteer of the Year. Congratulations to DR. MELISSA James and his family all volunteer for WELBY on being on the top 10 list of the organization. His wife, Rori Lockman LinkedIn’s “Top Voices in Health Care!” (a former WA faculty member), is a Melissa is a psychiatrist and health care FIRST Lego League coach; his three blogger that tackles mental health- sons are FIRST participants, alums, and related topics, from suicide prevention volunteers; and James is a mentor and to how to find a psychiatrist, with an event volunteer. James and his oldest aim to destigmatize mental illness. son made a tool for game announcers that helps raise the quality of events for students and attendees by delivering team and event statistics to the emcees and game announcers at events around the world as a mobile-friendly website. It 1989 also uses crowd-sourced data to ensure that the team names, sponsors, and DR. STEFANIE CHIRAS is now the other details are up-to-date. James says, vice president and general manager of “It is exciting to see so many people the Red Hat Enterprise Linux Business use the tool and to see how much better Unit at Red Hat. 1981 the audience experience is because of the resource.” He goes on to say, “WA also has a team that competes in the is pleased to have FIRST Robotics Competition: Team 4987 MICHAEL COADY joined First Republic Bank as Managing MegaRams. I give them a rousing ‘Oskee- Director of the Palm Beach Florida office. 1984 Wow-Wow’ whenever I see them!” RYAN KING was recently named the H. JON BENJAMIN’S new book, president of the Northern Cyclones “Failure Is An Option: An Attempted Youth Hockey program. Memoir,” was released last May. 1988

CAITLIN MCCARTHY’S screenplay, MARTHA SULLIVAN was an artist “WONDER DRUG,” advanced into in residence at Worcester Academy the semifinal round of the prestigious this past January. She is a skilled 2019 Academy Nicholl Fellowships singer, composer, and educator in 1985 in Screenwriting, one of only 149 New York City. She was most recently entries to advance from 7,302 scripts a Musicianship Instructor at Hunter entered. During the semifinals, four College of the City University of Academy members, drawn from a New York and a Music Instructor for variety of branches, will read “WONDER Rutgers-Newark. DRUG.” From 10 to 15 semifinalists will be selected as finalists. All semifinalists JESSICA PHILLIPS is on the national will be included in the Nicholl contact tour of “Dear Evan Hansen,” playing the list that is forwarded in the fall to agents, role of Heidi Hansen, mother of Evan development executives, managers, and Hansen. Worcester Academy alumni producers who request it. “WONDER and friends were able to watch her DRUG,” which had its origins as a Sloan perform on stage at the Boston Opera script at the Hamptons Screenwriters House on July 18. Lab, was most recently a “Featured Script” on “The Black List.” It is a scien- tific drama about the DES drug disaster. For information about Caitlin’s screen- writing, visit www.caitlinmccarthy.com.

60 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 On May 3, SEAN SOMERS of Boston’s premier Irish hospitality company, 1990 1993 Somers Pubs, received the 2019 Innovation Ambassador Award from ADRIAN (ACE) MORITZ and his wife the “Irish Echo” newspaper at its Small checkingalumni news in are in the craft beer industry. In 2009, Business-Big Impact Awards ceremony and was awarded the distinguised they opened Eastern Shore Brewing According to CHRISTOPHER HARRIS, Belfast Ambassador Medal for 2019 Company in St. Michaels, MD. Check “WA left a remarkable imprint on my life this October in Belfast, Ireland. Sean, a them out! and I still enjoy the friendships forged longtime Boston business leader, was over 20 years ago.” recognized for his ongoing commitment to local tech start-ups. The “Irish Echo” is the largest circulation Irish American weekly newspaper. Somers Pubs, a 1992 family business, owns eight Irish Pubs in Boston. He also recently spoke on a panel from National Geographic on the film, “Paris to Pittsburgh,” a Bloomberg Philanthrophy Film, on the topic of climate change and how businesses can help in the reduction of waste and the use of more sustainable equipment. Sean states, “Thank you so much for what you do every day! I would not be getting these awards and medals if it wasn’t for Worcester Academy and hav- ing ‘Achieve the Honorable’ instilled in me at such an important part of my life.”

HEATHER MONAHAN has authored a new book, “Confidence Creator.” The 1997 book shares the tips and tricks she acquired during her career and provides MARISA PEACOCK recently relo- a blueprint for how to get ahead in life. 1996 cated with her partner, Paul, and dog, 1999 “Confidence Creator” shot to #1 on Sampson, to Champaign, IL, to take on a Amazon’s business biographies and DR. ALTA BOOVER DANTZLER full-time lecturer position at the Charles business motivation lists the first week visited campus on May 3 to conduct H. Sandage Department of Advertising, it debuted on Amazon. She is founder of a master class with Don Irving. She College of Media, at the University of Boss in Heels. Heather shared her tech- happened to visit campus during Illinois Urbana-Champaign. She contin- niques with WA students on campus Reunion weekend and performed for ues to run her business, The Strategic in December 2018. Thanks for visiting, the Class of 1969 during a back-to-class Peacock, in addition to her teaching Heather! For more information, go to her presentation in Warner Theater. Thanks responsibilities. website: www.heathermonahan.com. for visiting, Alta! 1998

ZACH DAVIS is now working at RWJ Barnabas Foundation as a data analyst. Prior to this position, he worked in various roles at Drew University.

Worcester Academy 61 BEN KAPLAN and his brother, JOE ’05, own and operate Lakeside Bar 2000 & Grille in Shrewsbury and Herbie’s in Worcester. They recently opened another restaurant, Center Tree Bar & Grill in Rutland, MA.

2002 2001

Congratulations to JAMIE (LAVIN) BUZZARD and her husband, Mike, on the birth of their daughter, Clay Elizabeth Buzzard, born October 1, 2018. 62 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 DARYL PEGRAM is positively impact- ing high risk youth in his hometown of San Bernardino, CA. When his contract was threatened with non-renewal due to finances, the students and faculty checkingalumni news in made a powerful video of support. Through his dedication to youth and service to his community, Daryl has “Achieved the Honorable.” Daryl is the owner/operator of The Phomello 2006 Agency, an educational consultancy and is head boys basketball coach at San Bernardino high school. 2003 2005

WILLIAM CATHER began his new position as head coach of Clark University’s baseball program.

Congratulations to ASHLEY (BADEAU) CARON and her husband, Zachary, ALAN PANDIANI was promoted to the on the birth of their son, Dominic position of associate athletic director of Francis Caron. Dominic was born 2004 external operations at UMass in June. April 29, weighing 8 pounds. The ice Pandiani originally joined University of cream-themed photo pays homage to Massachusetts Athletics in August 2015 Zachary’s ice cream business. Zachary as associate director of athletics for is the 4th generation owner of a family sales and fan experience. owned business in Rhode Island called Congrats to ATHINA (NIKOPOULOS) Ice Cream Machine. TENCZAR and her husband on the recent births of their two girls. Tula Caterina was born on October 14, 2018, KASSIA DAVIS was recently profiled in and Melina Amaura was born on “Boston Magazine” about her new posi- Aug. 27, 2019. She and her husband also tion at Fierce and Legal, a Boston based have an older daughter, Elly. clothing company. She remains active in New Balance charitable foundations and is on the board at West End House, a youth services agency in Allston, MA.

CAILEIGH (WARREN) TERLEP married Ben Terlep in October 2018 and recently visited Alaska for their honeymoon. Congrats! From left are PAIGE WARREN ’07, KATHARINE (SMALL) OIKLE, CAILEIGH (WARREN) TERLEP, her husband, Ben Terlep, AND KATELYN EVEN. Paige was maid of honor, while Katie was a bridesmaid at the wedding, held in Colorado.

Worcester Academy 63 2007

A belated congratulations to EMILY BLOOM and DANIEL RODRIQUEZ on their marriage two years ago. Their classmate, JEFF ROTHSCHILD, officiated. WA alumni in attendance also included Carl Giovannucci, Max Trumble, Sachin Patel.

ELIZABETH BUTTERWORTH is attending Harvard Law School.

CAROLINE HART married Justin Renken in Las Vegas on June 22. Congratulations!

behind the post BILLY CLARK welcomed his son, Zayn Lewis Clark, on Aug. 12, 2019. KATHERINE O’CONNOR’S wedding Congratulations! was on Sept. 22, 2018. Katherine and her husband live in Astoria, NY. She is a special needs teacher in the Bronx and her husband is a lawyer on Long Island.

64 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 COURTNEY DUFFY graduated from Dartmouth with an MBA this past June. 2008 She will finish her MPA at Harvard next spring. She is excited to reunite in Cambridge with LIZ BUTTERWORTH checkingalumni news in ’07 at Harvard Law School. 2009

TERENCE CIAVARRA visited with students as part of Earth Month festivi- ties at Worcester Academy. He spoke on his career as business develop- ment manager for Ecosystems Energy Services. Terence states, “I wouldn’t have been in this industry if it weren’t for Worcester Academy. It’s because of the classes I took here.” He went on to inform students, “It all starts with getting involved with clubs now if you have an interest in getting into this work.” Terence also mentioned that TORI BENTKOVER, chief operating he enjoys working with educational officer and director of public relations institutions—such as Boston College, for A10 Associates, announced the Brown, and Worcester Academy—that launch of the woman-owned lobbying are actively involved in making changes shop on Jan. 2, 2019 and was fea- to better the environment. tured in the Boston Globe and Boston Business Journal.

ALBERT FELDMAN recently started his own move management company called Home Again Transitions. Home Again Transitions is a full-service move management and home organization business that helps seniors.

Congratulations to CAELYN (BELLEROSE) SIPLEY on her marriage to Jason Sipley on Dec. 8, 2018.

Worcester Academy 65 The Class of 2009 at GREGORY MCKETCHNIE’S wedding on June 22, 2019. Also joining them was PRAVEEN MAHENDRAN ’10.

behind the post

Congratulations to BEN FIORILLO who graduated from Tufts Medical School. He will be attending Emory University to specialize in anesthesiology.

2010 Congratulations to alums CHELSEA GRAVES and BENJAMIN GOODMAN on their recent marriage on June 29. Chelsea and Ben had a backyard wed- ding at her parent’s home in Paxton, MA. behind the post

On Nov. 30, 2018, SAM MARTIN cel- Congratulations to LINDSEY (JOHN) ebrated passing the Massachusetts Bar and PATRICK HORAN on the birth of Examination at Faneuil Hall in Boston their son, Steven James, born Aug. 6. with his mother, Carol, and Stanford Steven is named after Lindsey’s father, Law School classmate, Savannah STEVEN JOHN ’81. Lindsey and Haynes. Sam is currently clerking the for Patrick also have a daughter, Madeline. WA faculty member ANNA CLIFFORD the United States District Court for the met up with OLIVIA LO ’14 for dinner District of Massachusetts. In his senior in Córdoba, Spain. Anna chaperoned year at Yale University, he was captain a WA spring break trip to Spain (27 of the basketball team. After gradua- students), and Olivia, since she teaches tion, he played professional basketball English in Murcia, decided to take a in the United Kingdom for two years. train over during her long weekend to visit with her WA friends. 66 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 2011 2012

ALEXANDER AGHJAYAN married checkingalumni news in Abby Poirier on May 25 at Zukas Hilltop Barn. The couple went to Atlantis in the Bahamas on their honeymoon. Alex is the web designer at Saint-Gobain 2013 Company. Best wishes Alex and Abby!

Congratulations to ROXANNE ANDERSON on graduating with a mas- ter’s degree in social work from Boston behind the post University School of Social Work in May! Congratulations to JORDAN LUCAS and his wife, Tay, on the birth of their Congratulations to ELISABETH son, Jayce Carter Lucas. Jayce was PETERLEITNER on the birth of her son, In 2018, VITO CAPUANO founded born on Jan. 27. Jordan is the safety for Cooper Alan, born on Aug. 27. Congrats Taasa Health Inc. and serves as the the NFL’s Kansas City Chiefs. also to grandmother, Patty Peterleitner, president of the organization. Taasa former head of the Upper school at WA. Health is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to stimulating a holistic approach to economic and social self- sufficiency by improving access to healthcare programs in the developing world. Taasa’s inaugural project was to aid and expand a local health clinic in rural Uganda. Last year, the clinic treated more than 1,500 patients. For more information, visit taasahealth.org.

YUN’ER (ANGELA) NIU opened ÉgaliTea Organic Café on Newbury Street in Boston this past summer.

Worcester Academy 67 join worcesteracademyconnect.org TODAY! SITE IS WA’S DEDICATED ALUMNI NETWORKING PLATFORM

Join WA’s dedicated alumni community TODAY by visiting WorcesterAcademyConnect.org online! Meet up with friends and classmates, expand YOUR professional network, and cultivate a culture of helping and giving back in a trusted WA environment. YOU’LL be amazed at how vibrant YOUR WA community is! Sign up, sign in, link YOUR social networks, and hang out with fellow Hilltoppers today at WorcesterAcademyConnect.org! For assistance, email Director of Donor and Alumni Engagement Ursula Arello ’85 at [email protected].

RILEY DOHERTY was recognized as the U.S. Coaches Division 3 Scholar 2015 All-America selection. He was the first to achieve this in WPI history. Riley, a midfielder, was also selected to be a member of the All-NEWMAC First Team, the U.S. Coaches All-New England Second Team, and was a consecutive year CoSIDA Academic All-District honoree in 2018 and 2019.

Photo by Pete Smith

HARSH DESHMUKH saw on social 2014 media that WA middle schoolers were in DC as part of an X-STEM trip over spring break. Harsh works for CONGRESSMAN JIM MCGOVERN ’77, and, within a matter of hours, was able to get the 21 middle schoolers and faculty on a tour of the Capitol building. Harsh surprised the group by bringing along MAGGIE behind the post O’BRIEN ’15. He gave them a behind- the-scenes tour of the capitol building, Congratulations to NIKKI LAGANKE his office, the underground passage HAEYUN KANG met up with former who graduated from Penn State in May! between the offices and the capitol WA faculty member and science building itself, and much more! department chairman Chuck Glassmire during a trip to Portland, ME. Haeyun is in her final year of a six-year pharmacy program at URI School of Pharmacy. Haeyun and Mr. Glassmire were able to catch up over lunch and toured Portland. Haeyun remembers WA fondly and keeps in touch with a number of classmates.

68 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 2016

“The Detroit News” published checkingalumni news in KEELAN BALDWIN’S article, “Forever Chemical,” about the harmful effects of the chemical known as PFAS. She spent her summer in Washington, 2019 DC, researching how this chemical has contaminated water supplies throughout the U.S.

MORGAN MCSWEENEY, a right-hand pitcher, was selected by the Baltimore Orioles in the 18th round of the Major League Baseball Draft in June. Congratulations! 2017 2018 Congratulations to recent alum, YESSENGELDY RAKHIMBEKOV Gabriella “Gabby” Conte, on winning remarks, “It has been less than four the 2019 Miss Elegance Pageant! By years since graduation. Nevertheless, winning the pageant, Gabby earned the I did everything I wanted to do before opportunity to be a buyer intern with age 30. WA gave me the opportunity Carbonneau Formalwear in Atlanta this and a boost to grow and explore.” past August, sourcing fashion as well as learning business norms. Gabby’s platform for the pageant was empower- ing women in business.

TELL US WHAT’S NEW WITH YOU! To submit a class note, please send note and/or image to Alicia Figueiredo at [email protected].

HANNAH ENNIS visited Gladys Some tips for sending us digital Vasquez’s Spanish Language and photos that will look fantastic in print: Culture Class on Jan. 31, 2019 to > Set the photo size to 4 x 6 inches or informally chat about her semester off larger, in 300 dpi. before starting Middlebury College in > Set your digital camera to the best February 2019. After graduating from photo setting. WA in 2018, she volunteered for an > Save files as JPG or TIF. organization in Arizona called > Identify everyone left to right in the No Mas Muertes (No More Deaths). photo and provide a caption. No Mas Muertes is a humanatarian aid organization that works on the U.S./Mexican Border. She also volunteered teaching at a local public school in Chile while staying with a family friend. Good luck at Middlebury, Hannah!

Worcester Academy 69 passings family enjoyed many vacations up and down the Eastern Worcester Jewish Healthcare, Center for Adoption-UMass 1935 Seaboard on his beloved boat, The Triumph. He retired to Medical Center, Board of UMass Medical Center, and The Lake Worth, FL, and spent summers in Marblehead, MA. ARC. A brother, Ron Siff ’55, predeceased him. He leaves LAWRENCE A. BERENSON of Manhattan died in He was predeceased by his wife, Caroline, and a son, his wife, Shirley; two children; and four grandchildren. January 2018, two months shy of his hundredth birth- Philip W. Cahill Jr. ’67. He leaves a daughter; nine grand- day. He graduated from MIT with a bachelor’s degree in children; and three great-grandchildren. architecture and city planning. He served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1941 to 1946. His varied VIRGIL (MARSOOPIAN) MARSON died October 2 in 1943 business career included practicing architecture briefly, Naples, FL, where he spent much of his time since retire- publishing trade papers, investing in real estate, and ment. Virgil grew up in Whitinsville, the child of Armenian DR. THOMAS DECESARE JR. of North Kingstown, RI, writing about business. His philanthropic activities immigrants. As the oldest child, he took on extra responsi- passed away September 8, 2015. He was the husband included many children’s charities. Lawrence was a bilities, including nearly anything that involved speaking of Dr. Danute DeCesare. They were married for 61 years. great traveler and an accomplished watercolorist—a true or writing English. After WA, he started at Brown He served proudly with the U.S. Army during WWII. renaissance man. He leaves wife, Claire; son, Gary; and University but interrupted his studies to serve in the Army Tom was a podiatrist in Providence for 50 years and a two grandchildren. Air Force during WWII. His bomber was shot down, and past president of the Rhode Island Podiatric Medical he was captured after parachuting out of the plane. He Association. He enjoyed traveling, reading, playing golf, was awarded a Purple Heart. After the war, he returned to and time with his family. He leaves his wife; three chil- Brown, graduating in 1948, the same year he founded the dren; and 10 grandchildren. 1938 Andover Shop in Massachusetts with his brother-in-law. His clients included politicians and foreign ambassa- BURTON LOUIS TANGHERLINI of San Diego died DAVID LAWRENCE DENNISON of Carefree, AZ, passed dors. Virgil leaves two children and a grandson. His wife, October 15, 2018. Born in Boston, Burt lived in San Diego away on June 14, 2016. He graduated from Princeton Dorothy, predeceased him. after leaving the Navy in 1952. He worked at the Naval University with a B.S. in chemical engineering in 1942. He Air Station until 1984. After working several years at the began working for DuPont but soon interrupted his career DR. ROBERT M. ROWE of Northborough, MA, died San Diego Union Tribune, he started his own business, to join the Ski Troops of the 10th Mountain Division. He March 19, 2016. He served in the U.S. Army during WWII. Action Notary, and ran it for many years until he retired served until the end of WWII and was awarded a Bronze Upon his return, he studied optometry, graduating from Star. He returned to DuPont from 1945 to 1981 when he the Massachusetts College of Optometry in 1949. He retired as European director of plastics based in Geneva, practiced in Northborough, Marlborough, and on Cape Switzerland. Retirement was the beginning of 35 satisfy- Cod. He leaves a son; a daughter; four grandchildren; and ing years in Carefree, devoted largely to public service three great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his (and golf!). He is survived by his four children and his wife of 58 years, Geraldine. former faculty sister. Both his first wife, Margaret, and his second wife, JANE KJAERGAARD KJEMS Peggy, predeceased him. ROBERT M. SIFF of Palm Beach, FL, died September (TANGHERLINI), 80, former French teacher, 11, 2018. He lived most of his life in Worcester until died January 24, 2019. Born in Copenhagen, retirement. After completing his freshman year at Brown she studied at the University of Copenhagen University, he enlisted and was a member of the 95th and the Sorbonne in Paris. She taught French Infantry Division under General Patton. He fought in 1942 at WA in the mid-1970s, and received a B.A., Normandy, as well as at the Battle of the Bulge, and liber- an MBA, and an M.A. in linguistics, all from passed away December 20, ated two concentration camps. He was fluent in German PHILIP W. CAHILL SR. Clark University. She was a correspondent for 2018. Born in Salem, MA, he graduated from Salem High and Yiddish and served as an interpreter, earning the many local and international newspapers and School before attending WA. He graduated from the Bronze Star. Following the war, he completed his educa- had her own translation company, TransEdit Massachusetts Maritime Academy and served in the tion at Brown. He was a business leader who became International. Jane is survived by her three Merchant Marines during WWII. He was a born mari- president and CEO of B-W Footwear, Ambassador Shoe, sons, Timothy Tangherlini ’81, Niels Tangerlini ner, owning and operating Cahill’s Boatyard in Salem and BWA International. He was president of Two-Ten ’88, and Daniel Tangherlini. Her son, Arne for many years. He was very proud to be appointed International Foundation and a member of the board Tangherlini ’79, predeceased her. deputy district pilot commissioner, as well as Salem of directors of the Worcester Jewish Federation, the harbor pilot, by Governor Endicott Peabody in 1963. The Ecotarium, Clark University Center for Holocaust Studies,

70 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 passings

in 2015. Burt played tennis regularly since his school 37 years. Bill was a skiing enthusiast who also enjoyed GEORGE BARROWS SHERMAN died March 7, 2019. A days. He also enjoyed dancing of all kinds. Since 2000, biking, sailing and camping. He and his wife, Lois, were former history teacher at schools in Connecticut and Maine he and his brother Frank, his only surviving relative, avid square dancers and round dancers for many years. as well as Lima, Peru, George completed his academic were regulars at the Firehouse swing dance sessions. They enjoyed wintering in Florida following retirement. career with a National Endowment for the Humanities Teaching Fellowship at the University of Connecticut. DAVID KRIVITSKY of Manhattan died February 19, 2019. He earned a B.A. in theater from the University of David grew up in Boston and attended Boston English Maine, and a M.A. in history from the University of 1945 High School and WA where he captained the track team Connecticut. He also attended the Munson Institute of and was a national schoolboy champion sprinter. He American Maritime History. He served in the military EVERETT T. “EV” HARRINGTON died December 5, graduated from Dartmouth College in 1951. David retired during Korean War and was sent to Germany where he 2018. He was born in Worcester and attended Boston as president of Native Textiles after a long career in the taught basic literacy skills to fellow soldiers. His military University. He served in the U.S. Army Air Force during New York textile industry. He quietly supported many experience inspired his education career. Upon retir- WWII. Prior to his retirement, Ev worked as a general worthwhile causes, most notably the West End House ing, he moved to Vermont and began teaching skiing manager for Sjogren Tool and as a sales manager for Camp, where he was a camper, counselor, and its young- at Bromley Mountain. He is survived by his wife, Mary Cumberland Engineering and several manufacturing est director. Predeceased by his wife, Maria Martens, he Corinne Squire; a daughter; and three grandchildren. companies in the area. In his retirement, Ev worked part- is survived by his companion of 12 years, Rena Lustberg. time for Hy-Line Cruises in Hyannis, retiring at age 87 Thank you to David for being a member of 1834 Society. after 26 years of employment. Ev was a resident of West Yarmouth for 41 years. His wife of 66 years, Marjorie, died 1948 in 2012. He leaves three children; two granddaughters; and one great-grandson. 1947 HOWARD D. ELANDER of Greenville, ME, formerly of Holden, MA, died February 3, 2019. Howard graduated CHARLES S. MORRILL of Framingham, MA, passed HENRY “HANK” CONROY, passed away February from Wentworth Institute in Boston and worked for Heald away on December 25, 2017. He leaves his wife of 60 1, 2019, in Fort Myers, FL. He graduated from Quincy Machine/Cincinnati Milacron in Worcester. As a young years, Helaine; his two children; and three grandchildren. (Mass.) High School in 1943. Following graduation, man, he served with the Naval Reserves. Howard built Charlie’s personality endeared him to many people he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps serving in the his dream log cabin on Lower Wilson Pond in Maine, throughout his life. He will be greatly missed by his Pacific during WWII. After the service, he attended where he and his family enjoyed canoeing, campfires, and family and friends. WA. He received a B.S. in physical education from listening to the loons, and where he retired. Howard is Boston University. He spent more than 40 years teach- survived by his wife of 68 years, Evelyn; four daughters; ing physical education and health, as well as coaching 14 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren. football, in Quincy. In 2006, Hank was inducted into the 1946 Massachusetts High School Football Coaches Hall of Fame. Hank was an avid skier into his early-80s. Hank JOSEPH J. DIGERONIMO of Leominster passed leaves his wife, Gail, of Fort Myers, FL; seven children; away January 22, 2019. Joe was born in Leominster nine grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. He was and graduated from Leominster High School before preceded in death by his first wife, Trudy. former coach attending WA. He was a U.S. Army veteran serving in ANDY LASKA, 93, local Worcester basketball Japan after WWII. Joe received his bachelor’s degree EDWARD S. HARRIS of Florence, MA, died May 3. He legend, died February 2, 2019. As a player, from Boston University and built a career as part owner earned a B.S. in business from Babson college in 1950. Andy and Celtic star Bob Cousy formed the and senior vice president of the Victory Super Markets, During the Korean War, he served in the U.S. Army Signal backcourt of the Holy Cross team that won the now part of the Hannaford chain. He was an avid golfer Corps. Until retirement, he held various positions at NCAA basketball championship in 1947. He and a frequent traveler to Florida. He is survived by his Rodney Hunt, the family-owned company in Orange, MA, was the longtime coach and athletic director wife of 66 years, Margaret; two daughters; and three where he was vice president for many years. “Captain at Assumption College, but is best known at grandchildren. Joe was a generous supporter of WA and Ed,” as he was known to his stepfamily, was beloved WA as the basketball coach who preceded Dee has a room named in his honor in Kingsley Laboratories. by two generations. His interest in and compassion for Rowe. They worked together at WA summer each of them will be greatly missed. A lifelong small basketball camps for many years. Andy was GEORGE WILLARD “BILL” KING JR. died May 21, boat sailor, Ed sailed the waters of New England and the inducted into the New England Basketball Hall 2019. Bill was born and educated in Worcester. He East Coast for leisure and competition. From the canals of Fame in 2003. He was a WWII veteran and is graduated from Worcester Polytechnic Institute with a in France to the choppy waters of Buzzards Bay, Ed navi- survived by five children; eight grandchildren; bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. He was a gated with ease and assurance. He leaves his wife of 34 and three great-grandchildren. Registered Professional Engineer in Massachusetts. He years, Faye; three children from his first marriage; nieces worked at Wyman-Gordon as chief industrial engineer for and nephews; and 12 stepchildren/grandchildren.

Worcester Academy 71 LEON EDWIN “LEE” TURNER JR. passed away a devout Catholic. Joe volunteered for the Raymond Fire December 12, 2018. He grew up in Greenfield, MA, and 1950 Department and was a youth baseball and hockey coach enlisted in the Army in 1944. Lee was a member of the and a lifelong Red Sox fan. He leaves his wife of 63 years, Blue Devils Mountain Infantry Unit based in Cortina, Italy, DR. RICHARD J. “DOC” ABBOTT, DVM died February Laura, and four children. ski patrolling the northern Italian border. After the war, 18, 2019 in Moultonborough, NH. Doc previously lived in he attended WA and graduated from Boston University Sutton and Grafton, MA. From the age of five, he knew his RICHARD T. “DICK” SECINO, D.D.S., of Leominster, with a degree in business. Lee ran his father’s busi- calling was to become a veterinarian. He graduated from MA, died November 25, 2018. He was born and raised in ness, The Bicknell Thomas Co. in Greenfield, and also Grafton High School. A WA postgraduate, he attended Fitchburg, MA, graduating from Fitchburg High School worked at the Greenfield Tap and Die and the University the University of Connecticut and graduated from Cornell before joining the Army Air Force. Dick attended WA of Massachusetts. He owned and operated restaurants University’s School of Veterinary Medicine in 1957. From where he lettered in football. He also attended Tufts Dental in Northampton and Greenfield until retiring in 1984 and his graduation until 1980, he practiced by the side of his School for one year before transferring to and graduating moving to East Orleans with winters in Vero Beach, FL. older brother, George ’40, who preceded him at WA. They from Loyola University. Dr. Secino was a member and past Lee was a gifted athlete throughout his life, enjoying ran Abbott Animal Hospital in Worcester. In 1981, he president of the Central Mass Dental Society and Central tennis, sailing, golf, and skiing. He and his wife, Gladys, moved to Moultonborough, where he opened a solo prac- Mass Dental Study Group. He practiced dentistry for over were married for 66 years until her death last year. He tice. He was predeceased by his wife of 63 years, Helen; 40 years and took great pride and satisfaction in his work. leaves three children and three grandchildren. his son, Richard J. Abbot Jr. ’71; and his brothers, George Active and enthusiastic, Dick enjoyed dancing, skiing, and Robert ’48. Doc is survived by two daughters; a son; fishing, golfing, and woodworking. He is survived by his PASQUALE N. “PAT” VITONE JR. died October 20, and three grandchildren. wife of 31 years, Patricia; seven children; two stepchildren; 2018. Pat was born in Clinton, MA, the son of Italian eight grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter. immigrants. At WA, he excelled in athletics. He enlisted PAUL J. CONTI of Southborough, MA, passed away in the United States Navy during the Korean Conflict. Pat October 28, 2018. After WA, Paul earned a bachelor’s was assigned to the USS Atka and throughout his service degree in business from Norwich University and was fought as a middleweight boxer to become the fleet commissioned as a second Lieutenant. Before embark- 1951 champion of the Mid-Atlantic Division. He returned home ing for Germany, where he served for two years as an safely to begin his lifelong career with Mass Electric. He armored tank officer in the 47th Inf. Regiment, Paul ALBERT BRUCE BERGQUIST, known as Bruce, an retired as head lineman after 38 years. A talented athlete, married Jean. While in Europe they skied and traveled adventurous educator and leader of nonprofits, died Pat played semi-pro baseball and later coached little extensively. Paul worked in many capacities for Rexnord in Olympia, WA, March 30, 2018. Bruce was born in league, youth hockey, and softball in Leominster. His wife Corp, retiring as district sales manager in 2001. Paul was Worcester and raised in Holden, MA. He earned a of 61 years, Eva, predeceased him. Pat is survived by two an avid Red Sox fan and enjoyed summers on Cape Cod. bachelor’s degree in English at Dartmouth. After complet- children and one granddaughter. His wife, Jean, predeceased him in 2013. Paul is survived ing Navy ROTC requirements, he earned a master’s by his three sons and their families. degree at Middlebury College. Bruce was an educator and administrator. He spent 10 years at the Hill School, IRA KASHGAGIAN of Brockton, MA, died November 23, served on the WA Board of Trustees from 1971 to 1976, 1949 2018. Ira was a lifelong resident of Brockton where for many founded the Dynamy School in Worcester and Baker River years he co-owned and operated Paramount Rug Cleaners School in New Hampshire, and led Solebury School in DR. NORMAN L. SADOWSKY of Brookline, MA, died and Flooring with his brother, Arthur. Ira was a proud Pennsylvania. For the last 29 years, he lived in Olympia, June 29, 2019. A recognized pioneer in early breast veteran of the U.S. Navy having served from 1951 to 1959. where he was a co-founder of the Thurston County cancer detection, he established New England’s first ded- He was an active member of many clubs and community Dispute Resolution Center. He is survived by wife, Betsy; icated mammography unit at Boston’s Faulkner Hospital organizations in Brockton. Some of his favorite times were three children; and five grandchildren. (now part of Brigham & Women’s Hospital). Born and spent at his summer residence on Cape Cod. He is survived raised in Worcester, he continued his education in Boston, by his wife, Ann; three children; and six grandchildren. RUSSELL H. TESSIER, PH.D. of Paxton, MA, died June graduating from Harvard College and Tufts Medical 19, 2019. Russell was born in Worcester. After WA, he School. He became head of radiology at Faulkner in 1964 JOSEPH VICTOR REGIS JR. of Hampton, NH, died graduated from Boston University. He received his Ph.D. and led the department for decades, not fully retiring March 14, 2019. He was born in Peabody, MA, and gradu- from The Franklin University. Russell owned and operated until 2011. He was founding director of the Faulkner ated from Peabody High School, before continuing his Handy Pad Manufacturing Co., which was a family busi- Sagoff Breast Imaging and Diagnostic Center. Survivors education at WA and the University of New Hampshire, ness, and Stafford Laboratories, both in Worcester. He was include his wife of 66 years, Ethel; four children; and three where he co-captained the football team. Joe graduated a licensed real estate broker. His many interests included grandsons. He also leaves several relatives with WA con- in 1954 and proudly served in the U.S. Army. Joe worked travel, hunting, fishing, gardening, cooking, and art as nections: his brother, Harold ’52; and nephews John ’69, for his father in the family business, Regis Tanning, in well as membership in the Crown and Anchor Society. He Ronald ’71, Kenneth ’80, and Robert ’81. Peabody, and later as general manager of the Raymond, is survived by his wife, Beverly; a son; two daughters; a NH, plant. In 1961, he relocated to Hampton. Joe finished stepdaughter; and grandchildren. He was predeceased by his career working for Sylvania, retiring in 1996. He was his first wife, Jean, and daughter, Linda.

72 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 passings

KENNETH JOHN PATRICK died July 1, 2018. Ken was born retired. He enjoyed classical music, photography, road trips, 1952 in Worcester. He graduated from Columbia University with crossword puzzles, and a good joke. He is survived by his a BA in economics. He received his MBA in accounting from wife, Jean; four children; five grandchildren; and two great- GORDON B. CHAPMAN JR. of Daytona Beach, FL, Babson College and became a CPA in 1976. He served in grandchildren. He was predeceased by his daughter, Jody. passed away February 4, 2019. Born in Beverly, MA, he the U.S. Navy Reserve, attaining the rank of lieutenant com- spent four years at WA. He was a Navy veteran. He lived mander in 1976. Over the years, he held several financial RUSSELL COLE GAUDET of Nahant, MA, died April 29, in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Florida before positions within the tech industry, including at Raytheon, 2019, where he lived for most of his life. He attended the permanently relocating to Florida in the 1980s. Gordon ITT and DEC. Ken had a lifelong passion for music and was University of Miami. Cole enjoyed a long career in the insur- was an antique collector and store owner. Gordon is sur- a talented pianist. He was the founder of the Ken Patrick ance industry, retiring as director of international operations vived by cousins and friends. Thank you to Gordon, who Jazz Trio, which enjoyed considerable success in the Detroit at John Hancock Financial Services. He volunteered at left a legacy to WA as a member of the 1834 Society. area in the 1960s. He was happiest boating in the summer WA, working on the Rowe Family Scholarship Golf Classic and skiing in the winter. He leaves his wife of 58 years, and reunion activities. He was involved in mentoring and RICHARD “DICK” STEPHEN HELLAWELL SR. of Suzanne; two children; and four grandchildren. coached youth sports. He leaves his wife of 61 years, Joyce; Jupiter, FL, and Stockbridge, MA passed away November six children; 12 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. 30 2018. Dick was born in Arlington, MA. An alumnus of Colby College and a veteran of the US Army, Dick began a RONALD J. SHANNON of Fort Lauderdale, FL, died career in the automotive industry at Fitzhenry Cadillac in 1955 January 11, 2019. Originally from Worcester, Ron moved Worcester and later owned Hellawell Cadillac Oldsmobile his family to Florida in 1975. He was a veteran of the in the Berkshires. He retired as an executive with Braman JERE ALLEN of Hampton, NH passed away January 28, Korean War, serving in the U.S. Air Force. After graduat- Motorcars in West Palm Beach. Dick was a uniquely 2019. After WA, Jere went to Paul Smiths College in NY. ing from Tufts University, he worked in the wine and engaged philanthropist and humanitarian who impacted After college, he joined the Army. After military service, spirits industry for over 30 years. He then worked with many. He loved to play golf and was an avid fan of all New he graduated from the University of New Hampshire, with his sons in their ventures. Never wanting to retire, he England sports teams. Dick is predeceased by his son and two master’s degrees. Jere taught at three schools before went to the office every day, becoming the family chair- his brother, Raymond ’61. He is survived by his wife of 61 using his science background to embark on a new career man emeritus. He is preceded in death by his wife, Starr. years, Patricia, and two daughters and their families. in the field of nuclear power. He was vice-president of Ron is survived by four sons and five grandchildren. VIKEM Industries (which later became Enpro Services). He and the VIKEM crew were one of the first on the scene at the Three Mile Island disaster in 1979. After retiring 1953 from the environmental consulting business, he worked 1958 for Regal Limousine. His greatest passions were travel, WILLIAM CHARLES VANKEUREN died February golf, and family. Jere is survived by his wife of 40 years, PAUL M. “MICK” BLOOMFIELD of Naples, FL, and 11, 2017. Bill graduated from Worcester Polytechnic Linda; two children; and five grandchildren. formerly of Worcester, passed away November 20, 2018. Institute in 1956 with a bachelor’s degree in electrical A graduate of Wentworth College, Mick worked in the engineering. He served in the U.S. Air Force. He then family business B. Bloomfield Company until its closing began his 37-year engineering career for Pratt & in the late-’80s. He then worked for Waste Management Whitney Aircraft. Bill was a lifelong learner with many 1956 until he retired. He was a lifelong member of the hobbies and a penchant for travel. He always had a Worcester Model Railroaders Inc. He loved all things Irish project underway. Bill is survived by his wife of 57 years, EDWARD JOHN BERGEN JR. of Sanford, ME, formerly and was honored to be the first associate member of the Dorothy; six children; and 11 grandchildren. of Medford, MA, died February 16, 2016. A gifted Worcester chapter of the Ancient Order of Hibernians. athlete, he had a lifetime passion for football, as a Mick was a devout man and followed his religion to the player, coach, and fan. He was employed by the Boston letter. He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Peg. Globe for 35 years. He moved to Sanford after retiring 1954 15 years ago. He was well known for his expertise in gardening, especially his knowledge and love for roses. REV. ROY BENJAMIN of Danvers, MA, and Ipswich, He was a proud member of the Maine Rose Society. Ed 1959 formerly of Randolph, passed away January 8, 2013. leaves four children and five grandchildren. Roy was a dedicated loving Episcopal parish priest PHILIP J. CLARKSON of Wolfeboro, NH, died May 22, for over 50 years. He served for over 28 years at Trinity STUART “ STU” COTTON of Framingham, MA, died 2018. Philip was born in Worcester. After WA, he attended Church, Randolph. He also spent time as interim priest- November 25, 2018. Stu was a graduate of Boston Springfield College, Columbia University, and the University in-charge at parishes across New England and Virginia. University. He worked in sales for many years before of Massachusetts, Amherst. He had a long career as a guid- Roy is survived by his wife of 54 years, Sally; four moving to Hawaii for 14 years and working as an environ- ance counselor at Wildwood Elementary School, Amherst, children; and 12 grandchildren. mental consultant. He returned to Massachusetts when he positively affecting the lives of hundreds of children and

Worcester Academy 73 WA TRUSTEE Brian O’Connell ’67 PERSONIFIED ‘SPIRIT OF WORCESTER ACADEMY’

Members of the Worcester Academy community O’Connell earned his B.A. in English, French, and his- Additional Remembrances joined hundreds of others in the Worcester area in tory from the College of the Holy Cross. He earned his October to celebrate the life of longtime Worcester J.D. from Harvard Law School in 1974 and went on to Former Worcester Academy President of the Board of Academy Board of Trustees Secretary Brian practice law in both Worcester and Boston. Trustees Henry Dormitzer ’88 is effusive in his praise O’Connell ’67. Mr. O’Connell, a loyal friend of WA Through the years, he has remained actively con- and warm in his remembrance of Mr. O’Connell. and a dedicated and iconic figure on the Hilltop for nected to Worcester Academy as a friend, supporter, “Brian was a kind and thoughtful person, and I more than eight decades, died unexpectedly Oct. 18 and loyal alumnus. A member of the Worcester admired that he devoted much of his life to helping at the age of 70. Academy Board of Trustees, he was the board’s long- WA be a better place for students,” Mr. Dormitzer His passing ended a long and distinguished standing secretary and its longest serving member, said. “His knowledge of our history was more than career in service to others, including 36 years on having joined in 1976. facts. He had insights into the personalities that the Worcester School Committee and 43 years on In May, Mr. O’Connell was inducted into the shaped the school. He was also a thoughtful and posi- the Worcester Academy Board of Trustees. From his Worcester Academy Hall of Fame. tive voice in so many board challenges.” time growing up on the Hilltop (Brian was the son “There was no question about his being a ‘Hall of David Forsberg ’65, Worcester Academy trustee and of legendary WA teacher Andrew O’Connell), to his Famer,’” Mr. Cino said. “He was someone that every- former board president, shared his own recollections 50th Class Reunion, to the countless hours spent one loved and knew well, and he was a beacon of at Mr. O’Connell’s passing. on WA board business, as recently as this fall, Mr. loyalty and dedication to Worcester Academy and to “No one personified the spirit of orcesterW O’Connell was a constant and reassuring presence at the institutions and ideals most important to him. The Academy more than Brian did,” said Mr. Forsberg. “He Worcester Academy. Academy was honored to be among them.” dedicated his talented life to education, especially to “Brian and his family embodied the true spirit of Peter Gardner ’63, a past member of the board of Worcester Academy. I am saddened beyond words, Achieving the Honorable,” Worcester Academy Board trustees, recalls moving onto campus and meeting but also grateful that Brian touched so many young of Trustees President James Pietro ’81 said. “His long Brian O’Connell for the first time. lives in such a profound way. He helped thousands of history and dedication to Worcester Academy were “I met Brian in 1959, my freshman year in old parents to raise their children.” second to none.” Davis Hall, where he and his family were living,” Mr. Cino said Mr. O’Connell demonstrated both a Worcester Academy Head of School Ron Cino Mr. Gardner said. “That 10-year-old would grow to desire and an ability to make the world a better place, echoed that sentiment. become brilliant, generous, and estimable. as well as having demonstrated the right way to treat “Brian was among the most selfless and generous “During our service together on the board, one others—with respect and appreciation. people that I have ever met,” Mr. Cino said. “Anyone delighted to hear this man articulate formed, logical, “For those reasons and many more, Brian O’Connell who has ever had the pleasure of meeting and getting and persuasive argument. One could visualize his will be dearly missed,” Mr. Cino said. “His legacy, to know him had a friend for life. That was certainly paragraphs, e.g., ‘I, A., 1., a., (1),’ etc. Musical syntax however, will live on.” true for Worcester Academy, and that was true for the to the discerning listener! But much more important city of Worcester as well. was his magnanimous, kind, and ebullient spirit and In keeping with his family’s wishes, donations memo- “As an alumnus, there were few who loved character. Brian lived what his WA diploma had, rializing Brian O’Connell can be made to Worcester Worcester Academy so well as Brian did,” he said. unnecessarily, conferred on him in 1967. He Achieved Academy by visiting WorcesterAcademy.org/GiveNow Following graduation from Worcester Academy, Mr. the Honorable.” and designating a “Tribute Gift” to his memory.

74 the HILLTOPPER : winter 2019–2020 passings

their families. When Philip retired, he moved to the Lakes Bicknell Jr. ’27, to WA. John served in the U.S. Air Force worked as a registered nurse. Stephen loved music, good Region and took full advantage of the outdoor opportunities for several years. Returning to civilian life, he earned his literature and conversation. He was a master of trivia it offered. He canoed, kayaked, hiked, skied, and snow- associate’s degree in forestry at Paul Smith’s College in games. He is survived by his daughter, Erin; his former shoed its trails and mountains. He is survived by his wife of 1969. John’s participation in sled dog racing inspired him spouse, Mary Labuski; and many friends and relatives. 38 years, Dora; two children; and three grandchildren. to move to Maine in 1973. He owned Bicknell Enterprises, a heating oil business, for more than 20 years. Later, he worked as a landscaper, creating rock and flower gardens throughout the Mingo Springs Golf Course, calling it 1974 1960 the best job he ever had. He leaves his wife of 46 years, Martha, as well as two daughters and their families. GARY G. POST of Douglas, MA, formerly of Auburn, STEPHEN D. BURWICK of Palm Beach Gardens, FL, died passed away April 29, 2019. Gary was born in Boston January 4, 2019. He was a proud Worcester native who BERNARD DAVID “BERNIE” UDELL, of Bedford, and raised on the family farm in Auburn. He attended graduated from Syracuse University and Boston University MA, died Aug. 4, 2018. Born in Woonsocket, RI, he was Nichols College and later graduated from the University School of Law, where he earned a J.D. and an LL.M in founder and former owner of Middlesex Overhead Doors of Massachusetts with a degree in agriculture in 1977. taxation. Stephen joined the Worcester law firm, Burwick of Burlington. He leaves his wife of 51 years, Phyllis; three His early experience on the family farm led him and his and Burwick, founded by his father, and remained with the sons; and five grandchildren. wife to purchase their own Christmas tree farm in 2015 firm for many years. He retired in 2006, moving to Florida in Brooklyn, CT. Gary formerly worked as a salesman in in 2008. He spent many summers on the Cape. A longtime the heavy-duty truck industry for over 20 years. He leaves member of the Massachusetts and Worcester County Bar his wife of 33 years, Laurel; his two children; his brother, Associations, he served on the board of the Worcester 1968 Robert ’72; his sister; and many nieces and nephews, Jewish Community Center and was an avid golfer. His including Charles Post ’00 and Julia Post Quaglieri ’03. wife of 25 years, Barbara, died in 1993. He was also pred- JOHN “JOCK” HOWARD PEARSON JR. of Lowell, edeceased by his brother, John Burwick ’57. He is survived MA, died on April 7, 2019. Jock was an accomplished by his longtime companion, Carolyn Phillips; his children, patent attorney, builder, banker, civic leader, and Michael Burwick ’87, Charles “Todd” Burwick ’90, and philanthropist. He graduated from the Belvedere 1978 Kimberly Ann Burwick ’93; and four grandchildren. School, Cardigan Mountain School, Worcester Academy, University of Hartford, and Suffolk University Law DAVID ELWOOD JEFFERY III of Burleson, TX, CHARLES “CHUCK” JOSEPH RICHARDS JR., a long- School. Jock was a senior partner with the law firm of “The Harptender,” passed away August 3, 2017. Born time resident of Concord, MA, died May 27, 2019 while Pearson & Pearson LLP, an intellectual property and in Mount, NY, Dave attended Hobart College. A local hiking Mt. Monadnock in Jaffrey, NH. Chuck grew up in business firm founded in 1901 by Jock’s grandfather. He legend, Dave was an accomplished blues musician and Framingham, MA, and graduated from Colgate University was president of Gateway Center Corporation, help- bartender, most famously at JJ’s Blues Bar, and played with a B.A. in history. Although scouted by several major ing build a major new landmark in Lowell. Jock served with the greats, J. Giles, James Cotton, Muddy Waters, league baseball teams, Chuck finished his education at as president of Butler Bank for over 30 years. He also and golfing legends, Payne Stewart and Peter Jacobsen. his father’s insistence. After college, he joined the United served on the boards of many nonprofit organizations He is survived by his two sons. States Marine Corps, where he served as a captain in the including Cardigan Mountain School, Lowell General Vietnam War. While stationed at Camp Pendleton, Chuck Hospital, and the American Textile History Museum. He met his wife who was visiting California from her home is survived by his wife, the Hon. Barbara Savitt Pearson; in Australia, They were married for 51 years. He made two children; and a granddaughter. 1986 his career in human resources and business consulting for the high tech industries around Boston. Chuck was MATTHEW ERIC FARMELANT of Glendale, AZ, passed an enthusiastic reader, hiker, and golfer. Over the years, away on April 7, 2019 due to complications from brain he remained committed to WA as a member of the Rowe 1972 cancer. The youngest of four brothers, Matt graduated Family Scholarship Committee. He is survived by his wife, from WA and earned a bachelor of arts degree from Mieke, and their two children. STEPHEN F. LABUSKI of Worcester died January 27, Northeastern University. A lifelong Boston sports fan, 2019. Stephen was born in Tacoma, WA. He graduated Matt combined encyclopedic sports knowledge and TV from Fitchburg State with a B.S. in Nursing. Stephen production skills to pursue a career in broadcast news. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1977. After serving served as sports producer for NBC 10 in Providence, RI, 1961 as a medic in South Korea, he returned to the United and as a sports broadcaster, producer, and news manager States to study Korean at the Defense Language Institute. for a former Fox affiliate in Flagstaff, AZ. After leaving JOHN F. BICKNELL III of Gorham and formerly Rangeley, He returned to South Korea and served as an electronic the broadcast news industry, Matt devoted his energies ME, died on December 2, 2018. Born in Worcester and warfare voice intercept and signal intelligence specialist to a career in audio/video event production and sales. He raised in Grafton, MA, John followed his father, John F. for the U.S. Army. Following his military service, Stephen leaves brothers, Marshall, Stuart, and Scott. W

Worcester Academy 75 ANNUAL GIVING HIGHLIGHTS $1,238,728 annual giving total 2,622 gifts 1,671 donors

2019 report on ANNUAL GIVING from the HEAD OF SCHOOL Dear Friends,

The Annual Report that follows recognizes our many loyal donors and celebrates their generosity. It’s an expression of sincere gratitude for those who share in WA’s mission. The phrase, “Thank you,” is one of those things that can never be said too often. With that in mind—

Because of you, we met and exceeded our 2019 Annual Fund goal, raising more than $1.2M. Close to 1,700 donors, representing every part of the Worcester Academy community—alumni, parents, grandparents, students, faculty, staff, friends, and foundations—contributed to the success of this year’s Fund and supported the programs and experiences you value on the Hilltop. What an impressive vote of confidence in all we do here at Worcester Academy!

My hope is that this yearly honor roll of supporters inspires even more to make a gift as our cycle of inspiration, achievement, and impact grows in magnitude over time. Such giving enables us to meet our goals, encourages us to dream bigger, and nurtures a culture of philanthropy. It further advances the implementation of Worcester Academy’s new strategic plan and master plan (see the feature stories in the current edition of “The Hilltopper” magazine).

Thank YOU for joining Worcester Academy in its mission “to instill in students the desire to learn throughout life, to engage passionately with the world around them, and to be honorable persons of strong and resourceful character.” Your generosity is fulfilling the dreams of students and our vibrant school community would not be the same without you!

There is no part of Worcester Academy that is not touched by your support. Thank you for making an impact!

Appreciatively,

Ronald M. Cino Head of School

78 Worcester Academy THANK YOU!

Please call Worcester Academy

for a complete copy of our

2019 Report on Annual Giving, including

our Honor Roll of Donors.

Phone: 508-754-5302, extension 108 Nonprofit Org U.S. Postage PAID Nashville, TN Permit # 730

81 Providence Street Worcester, MA 01604 U.S.A.

PARENTS OF ALUMNI: If this issue is addressed to a son or daughter who no longer maintains a permanent address at your home, please notify the Alumni Office of his or her new mailing address.

2020

SAVE THE DATE Join us for our Reunion Alumni Festival for class years ending in 5s and 0s!

Saturday, May 2, 2020

Afternoon/evening festivities include: - Special 50th Reunion Luncheon and programming - Campus Tours - Alumni Awards Ceremony - Food Trucks, Live Band, Raffles, Photo Booth, Corn Hole Tournament and more!

Cost per person: $25 for Class of 2015 $40 for all other classes (includes food, drinks, and entertainment)

Invitation and more details to come!