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Tower Hill Bulletin Fall 2010 1 Aerial view of the Tower Hill School campus in May 2010 after the completion of the renovations of Walter S. Carpenter Field House in the upper left-hand corner. Headmaster Christopher D. Wheeler, Ph.D. in this issue... 2010-2011 Board of Trustees 2...... Headmaster letter David P. Roselle, Board Chair ...... Exceptional Alumni During Extraordinary Times Ellen J. Kullman ’74, Board Vice Chair 3 William H. Daiger, Jr., Board Treasurer 4...... Adrienne Arsht ’60: A Lifetime of Leadership Linda R. Boyden, Board Secretary in Business and Philanthropy Michael A. Acierno Theodore H. Ashford III Dr. Earl J. Ball III 8...... Mike Castle ’57 and Chris Coons ’81: A Delaware Election Robert W. Crowe, Jr. ’90 with National Consequences is a Green-White Contest Ben du Pont ’82 Charles M. Elson W. Whitfield Gardner ’81 10...... Morgan Hendry ’01: NASA’s 21st Century Breed of Rocket Scientist Marc L. Greenberg ’81 Thomas D. Harvey 12...... Casey Owens ’01: A New Generation Pierre duP. Hayward ’66 Michael P. Kelly ’75 of Americans with a Global Perspective Michelle Shepherd Matthew T. Twyman III ’88 14...... Ron “Pathfinder” Strickland ’61: Lance L. Weaver Trail Developer, Dennis Zeleny Chief Advancement Officer Conservationist Julie R. Topkis-Scanlan and Author Editor, Communications Director Nancy B. Schuckert 16...... Allison Barlow ’82: Associate Director of Advancement Cultivating a Future for Kim A. Murphy Native American Youth Director of Alumni Programs & Development Office Special Events Kathryn R. Warner 18...... Class of 2010: By the Numbers Alumni Relations Brad du Pont, Jr. ’82 20...... Graduation 2010 Database Manager Jane F. Bazydlo 26...... Tower Hill School News Development/Alumni Office Manager Luba Berbeza 28...... Athletics update Photography Joe Smolko 30...... Bob DeGroat: Inducted in the Nancy B. Schuckert Delaware Sports Hall of Fame Valeri Stanton Penny Ashford 32...... New Administrators Layout/Design Kedash Design 33...... Tower at early morning Submissions to the Bulletin, suggestions for articles, photographs or letters are 34...... Around Tower Hill welcome. Mail information to the Development Office, Tower Hill School, 2813 West 17th Street, 36...... Over the Years Wilmington, DE, 19806 or email [email protected]. We reserve the right to edit 38...... Alumni Events submissions for space and content. Tower Hill School welcomes students 39...... Homecoming and of any race, religion, color or nationality. The school does not discriminate in Reunion 2009 its administrative policies or in the administration of its program. 40...... Homecoming 2010 If you would like to submit Class Notes, check our updated sport scores or read about the latest events sponsored 42...... Class Notes 2010 by the Alumni Council, please visit our web site at www.towerhill.org. 48...... In Memoriam: Cover: Adrienne Arsht ’60 John Pierson August 2010

As I write this letter, we prepare to open our doors for Tower Hill School’s 92nd year. This summer I have enjoyed thinking back on this past exhilarating year, filled as it was with wonderful achievements in academics, the arts and athletics. Still fresh in my memory is the beautiful graduation ceremony last June, where the Class of 2010—whom we nurtured as scholars, artists, athletes and volunteers—received their Tower Hill School diplomas. We are proud of this class and their accomplishments, and we wish them success in their next stage of development. We know that they will go out into the world and do great things. But now it is time for us at Tower Hill to look forward...and there is much to be excited about! Our enrollment is strong. We anticipate opening the 2010-11 school year with more than 750 students, a level that may top our all-time high. I believe our commitment to the principles of our founders is largely responsible for our success. Since 1919 Tower Hill faculty, staff and students have been driven by our motto, Multa Bene Facta. This is not just a slogan on a banner. Everyday our community is challenged to do many things well. This means bringing the best of ourselves to all that we do. Our teachers are passionate about academics, the arts, athletics and serving others. How extraordinary that our school should nurture, embrace and celebrate such a rich variety of talents over such a diverse range of disciplines! When prospective families visit the school they can’t help but feel the energy—and the joy—of Many Things Done Well. In this issue of the Bulletin we write about seven exceptional alumni who have taken our school’s motto and put it to work. Their lives reflect the rich variety of human experience and the many ways of working and interacting with others during these extraordinary times. You will read about Adrienne Arsht ’60, one of the most extraordinary business leaders and philanthropists of our times. Mike Castle ’57 and Chris Coons ’81 will make history this fall by running against each other for Delaware’s U.S. Senate seat. Two alums from the Class of 2001, Morgan Hendry and Casey Owens, are making global impacts—Morgan as NASA’s next generation of rocket scientists and Casey in the Treasury Department focused on U.S.-Chinese economic relations. Author, conservationist and founder of the Pacific Northwest Trail, Ron Strickland ’61 is spearheading the 7,7000-mile Sea-to-Sea Route. Finally, Allison Barlow ’82 leads one of the largest development program in the nation for Native American youth and has involved Tower Hill students for the past three years. You will also enjoy reading about Tower Hill’s legendary coach Bob DeGroat’s induction into the Delaware Sports Hall of Fame this past spring. And don’t miss the article about the stunning success of three of our spring sports teams, Girls’ Tennis, Boys’ Lacrosse and Girls’ Soccer, which each captured state titles in truly dramatic fashion. In this issue we also remember John Pierson ’59, who passed away last November, for his incredible years of service to Tower Hill. This issue of the Bulletin is the first that has been prepared since his passing; we miss the personal touch he brought to this publication as editor of the alumni class notes. Since our last issue, significant changes have been made to our physical plant. In May we re-opened the Walter S. Carpenter Field House, bringing a close to the building renovations of our entire athletic and physical education facilities. We have also completed the renovations on the Hayward House, the four-acre property adjacent to our campus, which was purchased in 2009. As planned, the Hayward House has become the headmaster’s residence and will be used to host a number of school and alumni events throughout the school year. We invite you to join us on October 22-23 for Homecoming 2010. There will be special dedication ceremonies for John Pierson ’59, and Jim Straub Sr. and Jim Straub Jr., a graphic art display by Heather McEvilly ’93, an encore performance by our Upper School Comedy Combat drama team and numerous athletic events. You’ll not want to miss tours of the renovated Field House and the new headmaster’s residence, the Hayward House. A complete schedule of events can be found on page 40. I look forward to welcoming you back to your school! Yours for Tower Hill,

Chris Wheeler, Ph.D. , Headmaster

2 Fall 2010 Tower Hill Bulletin A closer look at exceptional Tower Hill alumni who—in their own way—are making significant and enduring contributions to the world

Tower Hill Bulletin Fall 2010 3 Spotlight on Alumni

One can’t help but think of Tower Hill’s motto “Many Things Done Well” when considering Adrienne Arsht’s accomplishments over the last 50 years. There can be no doubt that she has lived life fully and well, and that her international-level impact on the arts, education and medicine will reverberate for years to come. In her extraordinary life Adrienne has always seemed to be a step ahead, challenging conventional thinking, blazing new trails, yet leading with the aid of an ethical compass that is steadfast and true.

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Adrienne Arsht ’60: A Lifetime of Leadership in Business and Philanthropy By Headmaster Chris Wheeler

hen Adrienne Arsht, the years to come. Undaunted, Adrienne Tower Hill class of 1960, enrolled at Villanova Law School and chose to forego her senior after graduating became the 11th woman year at Tower Hill School admitted to the Delaware bar, 25 years Wto attend Mount Holyoke College, her after her mother. She went to work in decision was criticized by the Tower Hill her father’s law firm but after a few years faculty and administration. “One faculty decided that the only way to become her member even told me that I would own person was to go out on her own. probably fail and have to return to join She moved to New York City and my sister Alison’s class,” Adrienne told worked for Trans World Airlines, first me over the phone recently. “That ended in their legal department, which was any real relationship with the school. I the only department that would hire think I fell off the school’s radar.” While women. When the federal government Adrienne may have fallen off Tower required that the airlines hire women Hill’s radar for a time, she has been and minorities throughout the company, highly visible on the global business and Adrienne moved out of the legal philanthropic scenes for decades. Her department and eventually became the path to success wasn’t an easy one, as Adrienne Arsht with President Barack Obama company’s Director of Civic Affairs. I discovered in a fascinating hour-long (at left) and Michelle Obama (above) during his presidential campaign in Miami. phone conversation with her this past In 1979 she met Myer “Mike” Feldman, August. There were plenty of obstacles was a highly prominent attorney in an attorney, real estate developer in her way, but Adrienne grew up in Wilmington. The Wilmington law firm and former White House counsel to a family where high achievement and Morris, Nichols, Arsht & Tunnel still Presidents Kennedy and Johnson. Mike service to community were the norm. bears the family name. Her mother, the was a Penn law school classmate of her Obstacles were simply challenges to be Honorable Roxana Cannon Arsht, was mother. Adrienne and Mike married in overcome. Half a century after leaving just the 5th woman in the state’s history 1980, and she moved to Washington Tower Hill, Adrienne Arsht is recognized to be admitted into the bar and was D.C. where she opened a title company. as one the most significant business and Delaware’s first female judge. Adrienne and Mike owned a bank in philanthropic leaders of our times. Washington D. C., which they sold in After graduating from Mount Holyoke 1986. They bought TotalBank in Miami, Adrienne is quick to credit her strong College, Adrienne decided to study Florida. In 1996 Adrienne moved to and supportive parents for instilling law. “My parents had both attended Miami to run the bank. Over the next in her the seeds of her success. “My the University of Pennsylvania for law 11 years as Chairman of the Board of parents really defined who and what school. I applied there, but was told that TotalBank, she took the company from I am and what I stand for and what the school would rather accept a man four branches and $100 million in matters in life. My mother stood because, ‘He would do more with his assets to 14 branches and $1.4 billion up for causes—she never bent. She education.’” This kind of gender inequity in assets. In July 2007 she sold the stood up for what was right at all was typical of the times and of the times.” Her father, Samuel Arsht obstacles Adrienne often encountered in continued on page 6

Tower Hill Bulletin Fall 2010 5 Spotlight on Alumni

Adrienne Arsht, continued from page 5 center would have gone into bankruptcy Advisory Board of the Washington and disappeared. National Opera. She is a member of bank for $300 million to Banco Popular the Fine Arts Committee of the U.S. I asked Adrienne if that gift was one of Espanol, the third largest bank in Spain. State Department and the Council on her proudest moments. She answered Foreign Relations and is also a fellow of This would be the moment that most quickly. “Yes, but not just because it saved highly successful people might decide an important cultural center in Miami. The Aspen Institute. In South Florida, she is Chairman of the Adrienne Arsht to relax—not Adrienne Arsht! Already My parents taught me that giving back Center Foundation, sits on the board of nationally recognized as a cultural is what we do. That gift helped save the the University of Miami and Amigos For ambassador and philanthropist, she arts in Miami, but it also saved the jobs Kids and is a lifetime trustee of Vizcaya began to focus even more keenly on the of countless people. Giving is almost my Museum and Gardens. needs of performing arts organizations, reason for living now, because I can Hispanic organizations, and educational affect so many lives in positive ways.” And even though she splits her time and medical institutions. Her impact Adrienne doesn’t just give her money among homes in Miami, Washington on our nation’s performing arts and away. She devotes huge amounts of D.C. and New York City, Adrienne has educational institutions is almost without her time to organizations she believes maintained close ties to Delaware. parallel in modern times. In 2008 she in strongly. She is active on numerous Adrienne gives between $600,000 was recognized by the Chronicle of boards and foundations. She is the and $750,000 each year to causes in Philanthropy as America’s 39th biggest Treasurer of the Board of Trustees of Delaware. Her family’s foundation, donor, having given away an estimated the John F. Kennedy Center for the the Arsht-Cannon Fund of the $43 million. Included in that amount is Performing Arts. She is a member Delaware Community Foundation, $30 million she gave to save the Miami of the Board of Directors of the John supports a wide variety of important Performing Arts Center, now called the F. Kennedy Library Foundation, the efforts in our state. From her years Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Metropolitan Opera, Best Buddies of living in Miami she developed an Arts. Had she not stepped in at just the International, Friends of the Budapest identity in the Hispanic community. right moment, Miami’s performing arts Festival Orchestra and The Global Consequently, a requirement for all

Adrienne Arsht and Anthony Kennedy Shriver at the Best Buddies Gala. Proceeds from the event supported people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Adrienne Arsht with longtime friend Sandra Day O’Connor, the first female member of the Supreme Court.

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The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, Florida’s largest performing arts center located in Downtown Miami. It is the second-largest performing arts center in the United States by area.

of her gifts in Delaware is that they at Goucher College with a $2 million with the aid of an ethical compass that focus on and include the significant gift. She has also donated $3 million is steadfast and true. Hispanic population in the state. She to the University of Miami to create I asked Adrienne what could possibly recently funded the establishment of the Arsht Ethics Programs, ensuring come next. “There is so much left to the Delaware chapter of Best Buddies the instruction of ethics across the do. I am very interested in supporting International, which is to focus on curriculum. She also gave $1 million gender studies, particularly around Hispanic and African-American children to fund a laboratory at the Bascom philanthropy. You know, men and women with developmental disabilities. And for Palmer Eye Institute at the University view money entirely differently. Men many years she provided scholarships of Miami called the Adrienne Arsht use money to gain access and power. for Hispanic students through the Hope For Vision Degeneration Women hold their money for home and Hispanic Scholarship Fund. Very Research Laboratory. family. They just want to have an impact recently the Arsht-Cannon Fund at One can’t help but think of Tower on the community. I will continue to the Delaware Community Foundation Hill’s motto “Many Things Done Well” find ways to have a positive impact on made a $300,000 gift to the Nemours when considering Adrienne Arsht’s communities. I have a responsibility to BrightStarts! program to serve kids at accomplishments over the last 50 years. give back. It’s my full-time job now.” risk for reading problems, an especially There can be no doubt that she has significant issue in the Hispanic lived life fully and well, and that her community. international-level impact on the arts, Thanks to Mary Ann Kelly Mac Donald ‘79, always a loyal Tower Hill Adrienne has never forgotten the solid education and medicine will reverberate School supporter, who encouraged the ethical foundation provided to her by for years to come. In her extraordinary Alumni Office to reach out to Adrienne her parents. In 2005 she honored her life Adrienne has always seemed to be as she and her Class of 1960 celebrate mother by creating the Roxana Cannon a step ahead, challenging conventional their 50th reunion in October. Arsht Center for Ethics and Leadership thinking, blazing new trails, yet leading

Tower Hill Bulletin Fall 2010 7 Spotlight on Alumni

Paramount Political Leadership in Delaware

By Chuck Durante ’69

Delaware election with national two prominent elected officials are mentions his one-student European consequences features a legion, rooted in a school proud of its History seminar with Jim Ten Broeck, candidate whose career of studies, sports and honor code. When Ed Hughes, “a tremendous mentor, who public service began at they entered public life, each promised helped me acclimate to the very different ATower Hill. to be a reformer; neither has disap­ culture of Tower Hill,” and Steve Hyde, pointed. Castle championed criminal John Pierson and Harry Baetjer, his Chris Coons ’81, in his second term justice reform in the General Assembly, football coaches before Coons became as New Castle County Executive, education as governor, stem cell third man on Bob Behr’s final cross is the Democratic nominee for the research in Congress. Coons cleansed a country team. U.S. Senate. He seeks to replace Ted dispirited county government and shrank Kaufman, father of Meg Kaufman ’86, “What I loved in high school is something its budget without involuntary layoffs. appointed to the seat Joe Biden had to I loved in college, is something I love Both have been ethically impeccable. vacate after 36 years when he became today. I enjoyed the dichotomy between vice president. Coons has done nothing half-heartedly, debating about diplomatic history particularly during his four years at between the world wars in a seminar As Coons raises his sights from civic Tower Hill. or with Henry Steele Commager about associations to world affairs, another the foundations of the United States Hiller is retiring from elected office amid “Florence Williams is a big part of why and the American Republic and then national acclaim. In his ninth term in I was a chemistry major in college. going over to the chem lab,” says Coons. Congress after eight years as Dela­ware’s She made it interesting; she made it “The difference between things that are governor, Mike Castle ’57 is completing engaging; she made it something that inherently debatable, based perhaps in a career of accomplishment, civility very few people find chemistry to be. principle but not fixed and things that are and integrity. “Ollie Crichton not only talked to me measurable, repeatable. I always enjoyed Beyond the obvious differences of a a lot about biology, but also about that tension. I found that I learned things quarter-century in age and eight inches my responsibility to try and make a by applying the insights and methods of in height, the similarities of Tower Hill’s difference in the classroom, in the one discipline to the other.” community, in the world.” Coons Coons wrestled for Howe Lagarde. Coons was also student council president. “Our major issue was, could the guys wear sweaters with appropriate collars in the winter instead of a jacket and tie all year. We got it through.” “I have often thought that I worked harder and learned more at Tower Hill than I did at Amherst College or even Chris Coons pictured on in some ways law school. It was the his senior page in the 1981 foundation that was laid at Tower Hill in Evergreen yearbook. learning how to study, learning how to Coons has successfully write, learning how to learn, that made guided New Castle County through the deepest economic possible all of these other things I have downturn in generations. done academically.”

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Even with a double major, club sports and myriad campus activities, Coons’ most important Amherst experience was in Africa. A junior year in Nairobi exposed him to friendship and debates with Kenyan students and scholars, and to country’s profound poverty. “That really changed my world. I came back to The 1957 Evergreen Amherst re-energized, and re-engaged yearbook mentioned in volunteer service.” Chosen as the Mike Castle’s “good nature” and his accomplishments student commencement speaker, Coons on stage and on the wove an anti-apartheid message into basketball court. his comments. Left: Delaware After auditing a class on classical Congressman Mike Castle talks with constituents. theologians while at Yale Law School, he obtained a Yale divinity degree. After diagraming, Miss [Julia] Jones with or sing it,” he laughs. “I was actually clerking for Third Circuit Judge Jane her Latin. At the time you’re taking shy very shy in those days. The whole Richards Roth ’53, he helped implement these classes, these teachers are very business of getting on stage and acting the AmeriCorps program at the I Have demanding. You think it’s punishment, really allowed me to come out, so I did a Dream Foundation, then returned to and later you realize that it is the a lot of drama.” Delaware as attorney at W.L. Gore. After greatest part of your education.” At the The son of a civic-minded patent lawyer, a term as New Castle County president, encour­age­ment of Howard Yule, “one Castle was recruited into candidacy just he was elected County Executive in of the greater influences in my life,” two years after Georgetown Law School. 2004. He is proudest of the growth of the he attended Hamilton College. “My background in Tower Hill sports was county library system in a turbulent time. Castle played center on the school’s very helpful because I was determined to “I look back with great fondness as my most successful basketball team. win. That why I put my name there, so I four years as a Tower Hill student. It With Bill Beck, Jimmy Wild, Reeves went out and knocked on a lot of doors.” gave me an incredible lifelong gift of Montague and Ruly Carpenter, the In Dover, with colleague Laird Stabler, both learning how to learn and learning 1956-57 team went 15-1. He played a Tower Hill trustee, as a mentor, he how to question. I continue to do both.” center field on a team that, as in developed policy expertise. As governor, basketball, lost only to Salesianum, he expanded state initiatives in education, Like Coons, who like most Delawareans and was a stout reserve on the un­ environment and economic development is his friend as well as his neighbor defeated football team. even as income tax rates were reduced. near Rockford Park, Castle spent his His pragmatic approach was welcome political career campaigning on the “We had the good fortune of having very in Dover, less so in Washington. “My issues that motivate him, not on slogans good teams. I emphasize teams because greatest concern in Washington is the that scare others. to break down the individual skills, we political parties. They are too demanding didn’t have stars; we had decent athletes After a precocious decade in the state about opposing the other side.” who cared greatly about what they were legislature, Castle left elective office at 37 doing. And we had fun.” Castle refused to succumb to hyper- to build a law practice before Govenor partisanship, forging ties among Pete du Pont ’53 asked him to be his The DeGroat approach had its desired lawmakers and advocates of both parties running mate in 1980, leading to two terms effect. “To me, it was important in that and all outlooks. His Congressional as governor and 18 years in Congress. He it gave me a sense of confidence about legacy was especially strong in education, was elected statewide 12 times, more than life in general.” as chair of the Subcommittee on Early anyone in Delaware history. Castle first addressed the public in the Childhood, Elementary and Secondary Castle walked to school for most of his Class of 1919 Auditorium, performing in Education. Says education expert 14 years at Tower Hill. He remembers plays and musicals. “In H.M.S. Pinafore, Chester Finn, “He has never failed to his toughest teachers best: “Mr. [Harry] I had one song. The day before there put the interests of kids ahead of those Algard in math, Miss [Cecile] Buckles was a debate whether I should say it of adults.”

Tower Hill Bulletin Fall 2010 9 Spotlight on Alumni

Morgan Hendry ’01 By Elliot Mitchell, Upper School Science Teacher

s a student at Tower Hill, “Quite simply, my career at Tower Hill taught Morgan Hendry was inspired by rockets in science class, me to overcome the challenges I face every day. and declared in 8th AGrade that he had figured out what Multa Bene Facta is a term that gets tossed around he wanted to do “when he grew up.” quite often at Tower Hill, and as a student you Morgan continued to devour the science curriculum, taking nearly every don’t really give it credence until you realize how advanced science course available. rare of a quality it is. The 2001 Evergreen yearbook claimed Morgan was most likely to become “Bill This philosophy is very relevant, as the days of the Nye, the science guy.” At graduation he received the Crichton Science Award for hyperspecialist are diminishing rapidly. In today’s his stellar work and genuine interest. technical world, a person has to be able to reach When recently asked to reflect on ways in which Tower Hill might have prepared across disciplines to reduce mistakes and deliver him, Morgan commented: products faster and cheaper.”

Hendry’s passion for science was recognized with the Crichton Science Award his senior year.

NASA’s next generation of rocket scientist—Hendry outside the Spacecraft Assembly Facility at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

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Morgan Hendry ’01 likes to think big: and is scheduled for launch in 2014. The Hendry, working in “If we are doing our job correctly, space newest rover is bigger than its ancestors “clean room” attire near the Mars flight will soon become as common as (who, incidentally, are still sending Science Laboratory. airline travel.” He’s referring to his work signals when NASA has time to listen) To work on a with NASA as a mechanical engineer. so that it can carry more instruments. vehicle assembly, all workers are Continuing some unfinished business Hendry left Wilmington after graduating decontaminated for of its predecessors, MSL will probe with from Tower Hill in 2001 to pursue particles, bacteria, more sophistication in the quest for life, and are grounded an aerospace engineering degree water and previous conditions that may to prevent in astronautics at the University of electrostatic have supported life on Mars. Southern California. After receiving discharge. his B.S. cum laude, Hendry stayed to earn his Masters of Science, also in astronautics. His studies at USC to design a way to spin a fragile ring that gave him the talent and experience to is 18 feet in diameter at a rate of nearly prepare him for a job with NASA at the 15 revolutions per minute, all without Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). The causing any wobble to the ring or the JPL is a federally funded research and satellite below. Isolating and perfecting development center and NASA field the movement of this cosmic lasso center located in Los Angeles County, will require a tremendously thorough California. JPL is managed by the nearby understanding of all the materials used California Institute of Technology in construction and the hundreds of (Caltech) for the National Aeronautics spring-like joints that allow the ring to and Space Administration. We caught “unpack” itself when it reaches orbit. up with Morgan on-site recently and Future water resources are a critical societal Ironically, the workhorse of Hendry’s impact of climate change, and scientific learned about his fascinating job and understanding of how such change may affect cosmic design process is a massive three of his major projects. water supply and food production is crucial for collation of data and equations that policy makers. –NASA are loaded into a tool familiar to Along with a team of young engineers, many—an Excel spreadsheet. he first helped design a satellite to Hendry is currently part of a design collect light from the surface of the team for an Earth science satellite “There’s one more problem,” Hendry ocean in order to study the microscopic that will measure soil moisture from casually mentions in describing his plankton and phytoplankton that form its orbit in space. By collecting light challenge, “the ring can’t ever be tested the base of the oceanic food chain. “We that reflects off Earth and by analyzing here—it’s too fragile to exist with designed a spectrophotometer capable the reflection of its own radar beam Earth’s gravity, so it will only survive of dividing the reflected light into such focused on the planet, the Soil Moisture in a weightless environment.” individual wavelengths that we could see Active & Passive (SMAP) satellite Morgan’s current existence seems the color signature of different species will scan the entire Earth’s surface in to be like a physics boxing match; in of bacteria.” Alhough the project didn’t three days. Obtaining a more thorough one corner is a beautiful piece of move into a development phase, interest understanding of water on our planet’s equipment that needs to move with in their design lingered long after the surface can provide some very important seemingly impossible precision but team split up and moved to new projects. insights. Water holds heat very can only exist high above Earth, effectively, so measuring the soil’s water Next came an opportunity for Hendry to and is therefore, untouchable. In content is essential for more accurate work as Mechanical Engineer on a very the other corner is the Tower Hill weather forecasting, climate forecast public project, the design of the next Mars alum—armed with spreadsheets and and flood prediction. Rover named “Curiosity.” Properly known an impressively deep knowledge of as the Mars Science Laboratory (MSL), Hendry has what appears to be an materials and motion. I would never the unit is currently under construction intractable challenge of the satellite bet against The Champ—my money in an airplane hanger-sized clean room scheduled to launch in 2014; he needs is on Hendry and his team.

Tower Hill Bulletin Fall 2010 11 Spotlight on Alumni

Casey Owens ’01: A New Generation of Americans with a Global Perspective

By Dr. Ellis Wasson, Chair of the History Department Dr. Wasson taught Casey Chinese History in 10th Grade

s a kid Casey Owens ’01 could through financial and strategic planning, the Chinese Ministry of Finance and never resist passing a new and it introduced her to the world of was soon to head off to Beijing with piece of sidewalk without international development. She had a the Secretary, several cabinet officials inscribing her initials in the ringside seat in the evolution of one of and agency heads and nearly 150 U.S. Afresh cement. Her desire to put a mark the greatest philanthropic ventures ever government officials for discussions of on things has matured somewhat since undertaken in the history of mankind. economic and financial matters between then. Increasingly, she has set about the two governments. While an undergraduate at Harvard, creating a legacy in terms of helping As the economies of China and people who cannot help themselves Casey studied Mandarin Chinese, the United States become more and serving her country. which she honed further in Beijing after graduation. Her interest in the language interconnected, the Strategic and Her first job out of college as an analyst and culture of the “Middle Kingdom” led Economic Dialogue has gained a at Lazard Freres & Co. in New York last spring to a position in government. central place in the management of our helped teach her the ropes of finance national interest. The Dialogue was She now serves as Special Assistant, and the capital markets. She applied the established by President Obama and U.S.-China Strategic and Economic knowledge gained there during a stint at Chinese President Hu in April 2009 and Dialogue, at the Treasury Department the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation represents the highest-level bilateral in Washington, where her team helps where she worked for the CFO. That job forum to discuss a broad range of issues advise Secretary Geithner. taught her the ins and outs of disciplined between the two nations. Casey’s office budgeting and managing rapid expansion When I caught up with her in May, she at the Treasury coordinates the priorities (thanks to Warren Buffet’s epic gift) was coping with a visit by a team from within the agenda for the Dialogue

Casey Owens made her mark at Tower Hill in and outside of the classroom. She is pictured Casey Owens and Vice Minister of Finance Zhu (second from the left) in 2000 with her classmates Tarra Boulden ’01, Alex Otto ’01, Guangyao, with whom her team worked very Mona Yezdani ’01 and Jill Hocutt ’01. closely during the U.S.-China Strategic and Economic Dialogue. The vice minister presented her in May with a small jade vase as a birthday gift.

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drawing together the concerns of a myriad of agencies and departments across the whole government and The Treasury China team met spearheads the negotiation of proposals in Beijing in agreed to by individual U.S. agencies May 2010 with and Chinese ministries. Months are Secretary Tim Geithner. Casey spent in preparing for the bilateral is pictured to the consultations and the rest of the right behind year involves assessing outcomes and Mr. Geithner. following up on agreements. Below: Casey Owens, Casey is optimistic about our future pictured here relations with China. Both sides are with Secretary making coordination a high priority Tim Geithner, is optimistic and both sides can benefit enormously about the future from a balanced and healthy trading Chinese-U.S. partnership. If the U.S. and the People’s relations. Republic of China can identify and and Harvard where her intense address the positive and negative aspects competitiveness gained much success. of our interlocking interests, both sides Tower Hill and Harvard also fed but did stand to succeed. In this process we not quench her thirst for knowledge. need people who understand China, At some point, Casey would like to go and Casey is one of a new generation back to graduate school. “There is just of Americans with the language skills so much to learn,” she says. She wants and cultural knowledge to help guide to continue to tackle “big problems” in and protect us. the field of economic development. Her Casey enjoys her life in D.C. She experience on Wall Street, the Gates finds the city vibrant and exciting. She Foundation and the Treasury will give participates in triathlons, a continuation her unique perspectives which, with of her long-standing commitment time to reflect and to study, will enable to athletics nurtured at Tower Hill her to help move the world forward. If the U.S. and the People’s Republic of China can identify and address the positive and negative aspects of our interlocking interests, both sides stand to succeed. In this process we need people who understand China, and Casey is one of a new generation of Americans with the language skills and cultural knowledge to help guide and protect us.

Tower Hill Bulletin Fall 2010 13 Spotlight on Alumni

Ron “Pathfinder” Strickland ’61: Trail Developer, Conservationist and Author

“Do not go where the path may lead; go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” –Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882)

By Randy Urmston ‘62

his spring my wife, son and several Tower Hill students, chose him National Park. Georgetown had no I hiked north of San Francisco to participate in the 1961 International outings program; no one but Ron in the old-growth, coastal Air Cadet Exchange to Turkey. His civil air was interested in backpacking. But redwood forest known as Muir patrol experience greatly increased Ron’s once again his Delaware connections Woods.T The experience was so moving desire to become an Air Force pilot until propelled him on a life-changing course. that I wondered how Teddy Roosevelt that proved impossible due to poor vision. In October 1962, 19-year-old Ron read and others had preserved that magnificent Ron graduated from Georgetown about a Newark antique dealer, Paris place in 1908. Then I thought about University’s School of Foreign Service Walters, who had thru-hiked the 450- my friend Ron Strickland ’61 and his in order to join the State Department. mile Cascade Crest Trail in Washington conservation achievements. I still However, he eventually travelled down state. (“Thru-hiking” is hiking a long remember the shy, gangly kid, with a career path that required a three- distance trail from end to end.) whom I studied French and ran track. year tour in South Vietnam as a rural He was tall, skinny and seemed unlikely Immediately fascinated, Ron sought development officer. For an anti-war to amount to anything. out the self-proclaimed hillbilly hiker. protestor, that was too much. Ron, It turned out that Paris had been an Today I understand that his pursuits—as a once again, had no career in sight. adventurer since the age of 17 when student at Tower Hill and subsequently— It was while he was at the School of he’d run away from home to join a tended to slip by unnoticed. While in Foreign Service that Ron spent many traveling tent show. Ron listened avidly Upper School, Ron became interested in weekends hiking trails within a two or to Paris’ constant proselytizing about the flying and joined the Delaware Wing of three hour drive of D.C. He even skipped Appalachian and other trails. That led the Civil Air patrol. Col. Louisa Spruance his own graduation from Georgetown to a month-long North Cascades hike Morse, wing commander and mother of in 1976 to hike the Appalachian Trail in Washington state, after which Ron through the Great Smoky Mountains returned east a changed person.

Left: Christine Hartmann ’83 and Ron Strickland on Appalachian Trail in 2006. Far Left: Ron Strickland with Andrew Skurka at Cape Alava, Washington, upon Skurka’s Hiking in the North Cascades completion of the in late 1970s. Ron Strickland 7,700-mile Sea- on far left, Randy Urmston in to-Sea Route in the center and Paris Walters July 2005. on the far right.

14 Fall 2010 Tower Hill Bulletin Spotlight on Alumni

The end of “beacon of cheerfulness.” She also earned the Pacific a doctorate and has written two books. Northwest Trail at Cape Alava Inspiration repeats itself from one where Ron generation to the next. Like Paris Strickland and fellow hiker, Walters, Ron has inspired subsequent Ted Hitzroth, youthful dreamers. One of the most completed the impressive examples occurred when a 1,200-mile Duke University senior, Andrew Skurka, hike in 1983. read Backpacker Magazine’s February 2003 issue that outlined Ron’s proposal for a 7700-mile transcontinental Sea- Ron’s career in international affairs president of his new Pacific Northwest to-Sea Route from the Atlantic to the continued to provide him with new Trail Association. Pacific Ocean. Skurka thru-hiked the opportunities. In 1970 he had an Arabic The politics of creating our analogue to Sea-to-Sea Route in 11 continuous fellowship at Georgetown as part of a the Appalachian Trail were particularly months, finishing in July 2005. “I am doctoral program in Political Science. difficult; the process took decades to play proudest,” says Ron, “of my efforts But there was no putting the wilderness out which says several things about Ron. to inspire young people to seize upon genie back in the bottle. “The person First, he was unbelievably persistent. the adventures that the natural world who has lived the adventurous life under Second, throughout the struggle the offers.” Skurka is currently on an Alaska- the open skies cannot easily forget it,” seemingly shy and aloof friend schmoozed Yukon expedition via skis, foot and pack he says. “Before long I was looking for ranchers, miners, Native Americans, raft to travel 4,700 miles over a seven- a rationale to return to the backcountry loggers, politicians and others. When month period and is being followed by of 100-ft. Douglas-firs and abundant he was not talking trails, he interviewed National Geographic. wildlife.” That opportunity came in the people for a series of oral history books form of a “brainstorm” to hike from I remember when Ron and I used to about all regions of the U.S. Hundreds east to west across much of Washington run track out at the old DuPont Airport. of fascinating Northwesterners, Texans, state. From 1970-1972, Ron explored Each day we trained under the watchful Vermonters, and Alaskans have since died, and pieced together existing trails on eyes of Mr. Oviatt, Mr. Hughes and but their stories live on in Ron’s books. federal, state, and private land. In an Mr. Laguard. Ron was never an Pathfinder, Ron Strickland’s eighth book, audacious move that still surprises me, enthusiastic participant; in retrospect, his will be published in 2011 by Oregon State he created the concept of the Pacific mind was already out where the boot hits University Press. Northwest Trail (PNT). I began calling the trail and where the songs of nature Ron “Pathfinder.” How did this shy Tower Hill graduate call from wild, unruly places. win over so many disparate people? Ron Today Ron Strickland is one of only two We reconnected in 1973 when I arrived had a mysterious way of connecting— living founders of national scenic trails. home one day at my Seattle house to possibly it was his Yankee background. His career path began in Delaware, but find a pile of hiking gear on my porch. It Until age 13 he lived in “remote” his goals are now national. His non-profit was the beginning of a great friendship. northwest Rhode Island, a smaller-than- Scenic Trails Research is attempting to: Until Ron actually moved to Seattle in Delaware state from which the citizens (1) create a National Trails Center; 1977, he came out each summer from generally never leave. Ron’s native turf, (2) make permanent the transcontinental D.C. to explore routes for the PNT. I Burrillville, is known as the home of Sea-to-Sea Route; and (3) attract a new aided and abetted his plans in several swamp Yankees “who have been back in generation of young people to the nation’s ways. Most memorably, as a Republican there so long that they don’t know which trails. It has been a long journey. And precinct chairman, I introduced him way is out.” Ron says that he is “one of who could have imagined that Ron, my to the brother of Congressman Joel the few who ever left.” Pritchard. Soon Ron had persuaded struggling, fellow mile runner at Tower Joel to introduce a bill in Congress that New England is the source of his laconic Hill, would be such a conservationist and would eventually lead to the addition style and dry wit. The humorous part long distance pathfinder! of the 1200-mile PNT to the National is that in 2007 he married Christine To enjoy more photographs and Trails System as a “national scenic trail,” Hartmann’83. In contrast to Ron’s information about Ron, go to his and he had me serving as the first reserved nature, she is an ebullient web site www.ronstrickland.com.

Tower Hill Bulletin Fall 2010 15 Spotlight on Alumni

Allison Barlow ’82 By Ann Barlow Ashley ’79

lack Elk, a holy man of the Ernie Savage, assistant headmaster in the context of white Australia.” Oglala Lakota Sioux stated, from 1962-1985, referred to her as “a She recalls being “questioned by the “Everything the Power of the mover and shaker.” Betty Richardson, white Australian critics for poking my World does is done in a circle. girls’ athletic director from 1951-1996, flashlight around in what was a painful BThe sky is round, and I have heard that coached her to score the winning goal part of their history.” This fueled her the Earth is round like a ball and so in the field hockey state finals. She did interest in Native American peoples are the stars. The wind in its greatest just that. This balance of academics and landed her current position as powers whirls. Birds make their nests and athletics at Tower Hill School Associate Director of the Johns Hopkins in circles, for theirs is the same religion parlayed into Allison receiving the Center for American Indian Health. as ours. The sun comes forth and goes Kenneth Archibald Scholar-Athlete One of her biggest accomplishments, down again in a circle. The moon does Award from Dartmouth College, which she initiated 14 years ago, is the the same, and both are round. Even where she graduated cum laude while Native Vision Camp. This year it was the seasons form a great circle in their captaining the field hockey and lacrosse held in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and changing and always come back again teams to Ivy League titles. After was attended by nearly 1000 Native to where they were. The life of man is a graduating, she found that short stints American children from across the circle from childhood to childhood, and as a freelance writer with a PBS series United States. so it is in everything where power moves.” and grant work with Children’s Hospital in Boston didn’t satisfy. She applied for Native Vision is one of the largest It is fitting that the path Allison a Rotary International Scholarship and youth development programs in the Barlow ’82, has chosen has come full the next part of her journey led to the nation designed specifically for Native circle...from her second grade start at University of Melbourne in Australia to American youth. Native American youth Tower Hill to her return three years pursue a Masters in English. Her thesis suffer the lowest education, health and ago to the school to invite a handful focused on Aboriginal writings and what economic status of any children in the of Tower Hill students to pursue their they revealed about “how Aboriginal United States. However, they come from community service efforts at the Johns Australians hoped to define themselves a heritage that engendered exceptional Hopkins Native Vision Camp that she helped found. Encounter Allison and you see a zest for life, an energetic force, a “can-do” attitude— someone whose devotion and drive comes from a genuine desire to make the world a better place. You see a thinker, a mother, an athlete and a fun-loving friend.

Above: Allison Barlow Right: Tower Hill students David Kullman ’12, Zoe Blake ’11, Stephen Kullman ’12 and Trip Ashley ’10 join one of the Native American volunteers at the Native Vision Camp during the summer of 2009. Photos by Ed Cunicelli

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Vision Camp on various Southwestern reservations for the past three summers. How “perfect” that they were given the opportunity to witness first-hand the culture of the Native Americans and in turn feel the warmth in their souls of what giving back to the community provides. After camp, Allison celebrated in a letter to their parents, “These Upper School students gave their minds and muscles in the form of 14-hour days in order to provide a life-changing experience for youth who struggle day-to-day to find a grasp on a positive future.” Along with the Tower Hill students, 58 professional and collegiate athletes also volunteered their time as coaches and mentors to the program. Allison, sleeves rolled up, The guiding principle for Native Vision is to cultivate the core strengths, values and positive relationships worked alongside all of them tirelessly for Native American Indian that will make them resilient to the prevailing risks and help them transition to healthy, productive and fulfilling adulthood. and positively, in hopes of widening the circle of people who care, who give and physical health, mental acuity, spiritual 2008 she received a Martin Luther who will be inspired by one another. In discipline and stewardship of the North King, Jr. Social Justice Alumni Award return for their experience, students American land and environment. from Dartmouth College. Dartmouth, who were also members of the Tower in particular, honored her efforts to Hill boys’ lacrosse team raised over In 2007 Allison received a Martin employ and support Native American $3,000 this past spring for the Native Luther King, Jr. award for Community home educators to work with families to Vision Program. The state championship Service from Johns Hopkins University address substance abuse, youth suicide team’s campaign had fans pledge per for her volunteer work in Baltimore and difficult home environments. goal—170 for the 2010 season! City, primarily at Baltimore Station, a residential therapeutic community for Many medieval scholars believed that So as the circle is power, and man’s veterans and men who were homeless there was something intrinsically life revolves, how wonderful to have due to their addictions. She recently “divine” or “perfect” that could be found an alumnae pass on to the future co-chaired a capital campaign for in circles. How “divine” that Allison generation of Tower Hill students the Baltimore Station that helped double incorporated service from a number passion for service in tribute to where its size from 50 residents to 100. In of Tower Hill students at the Native their journey began. “These Upper School students gave their minds and muscles in the form of 14-hour days in order to provide a life-changing experience for youth who struggle day-to- day to find a grasp on a positive future.”

Tower Hill Bulletin Fall 2010 17 Multa Bene Facta Graduates: 48 (20 girls and 28 boys) CAA sports in college: 9 college: in sports N CAA Playing Attending Ivies: 7 Attending Ivies: National Merit Scholars: 1 / National Merit Fi nalists: 3 P residential S cholarship N ominees : 5 National Merit Semifinalists: 3 / National Merit Commended Students: 7

Attending with a 3.9 or higher GPA: Yale 2, Col umbia 2, Wake Forest 2, Harvard 1, Virginia-Honors 1, A mherst 1, Washington University 1, Tufts 1, Princeton 1, Cornell 1

“Sticking with your friends”—Hillers attending the

Attending at the best college town in America (Amherst): 1 Attending at the best college town in same institution: Delaware 7, Wake Forest 4, Tufts 3

18 Fall 2010 Tower Hill Bulletin CAA sports in college: 9 college: in sports N CAA Playing National Merit Scholars: 1 / National Merit Fi nalists: 3 National Merit Semifinalists: 3 / National Merit Commended Students: 7

Attending with a 3.9 or higher GPA: Yale 2, Col umbia 2, Most applications for a single Wake Forest 2, Harvard 1, Virginia-Honors 1, A mherst 1, student Washington University 1, Tufts 1, Princeton 1, Cornell 1 Children of faculty:5 Children of trustees:5 5 P ennsylvania 7, D elaware 8, M assachusetts en di ng: att

Most acceptances e s stat by a single student op T

Tower Hill Bulletin Fall 2010 19 ower Hill’s 90th Annual Graduation Exercises occurred on Saturday, T June 5, 2010. Patty Marshall, Associate Director of Athletics, gave the invocation, followed by greetings from 90th Headmaster Dr. Christopher Wheeler. Lance Weaver, Chair of the Board of Graduation Exercises Trustees congratulated the graduates and then gave Harry Baetjer, Associate Head of School, an honorary Tower Hill diploma in recognition of his many years of service to the school. Two students, Jordan Bills and Demetrius Murray, addressed the graduates and guests (see full text of their speeches on pages 22-25). After an introduction by graduating senior Alexander Zeleny, Donald Dietrich, teacher and Director of College Guidance, delivered the commencement address. The Headmaster and the Board Chair then presented diplomas to members of the class of 2010. Trustee Peter Hayward presented Lance Weaver with an honorary diploma for his many years of distinguished service on the Board of Trustees. Following the ceremony, the graduates and their guests celebrated with a reception in the St. Amour Garden. Class of 2010 Colleges Entered Katherine Applegate...... Tufts University Michael Kreshtool...... Wake Forest University Patrick Ashley...... University of Delaware Meghan Lam...... Washington University Jordan Bills...... University of Virginia (Honors) Khaalid Lucas...... Xavier University of Louisiana Hunter Bolling...... Connecticut College Taylor Martel...... University of Delaware Preston Boyden...... Vanderbilt University William Martinez...... Hofstra University Kendall Cohen...... Northeastern University Juwan Montalvo...... University of Delaware Phillip Deardorff...... Lehigh University Demetrius Murray...... Clemson University Neilay Dedhia...... Wake Forest University Ripley Nielsen...... University of Richmond Nicket Dedhia...... Johns Hopkins University Lucy Nutting...... University of Connecticut Remy Denner...... University of Colorado-Boulder Benjamin Rigrodsky...... West Virginia University Gabrielle Dressler...... Columbia University Molly Rosen...... Boston University Samuel Durgin...... University of Miami Alexis Saunders...... Princeton University Koko Ekong...... University of Pittsburgh Erik Schubert...... University of Pittsburgh Veronica Everest...... Wake Forest University Emily Schuckert...... Yale University Brian Felzer...... Muhlenberg College Andrew Singles...... University of Delaware Max Friedman...... Georgetown University Blaise Taylor...... Wake Forest University Jake Graham...... College of the Holy Cross Bryan Taylor...... University of Delaware (Honors) Samuel Greenberg...... Virginia Polytechnic Institute Virginia Trapnell...... College of Charleston Caroline Holliday...... Amherst College Victor Walker...... University of Delaware Zarshawn Jan...... Drexel University Logan Weaver...... Georgetown University Benjamin Keller...... Southern Methodist University Jennifer Williams...... University of Delaware Joanna Kelly...... Columbia University Monica Wilson...... Harvard University Andrew Kreshtool...... Tufts University Claire Xue...... Yale University Evan Kreshtool...... Tufts University Alexander Zeleny...... Cornell University

20 Fall 2010 Tower Hill Bulletin Awards Presented on Friday, June 4 Class of 2010 Parent Recognition

Cum Laude—Junior Year P. Edward Hughes History Award The following parents were recognized Jordan Meloy Bills Joanna Gerard Kelly for having accumulated 20 or more Joann Gerard Kelly Monica Joy Wilson “student years” at Tower Hill School. Emily Rebecca Schuckert Their youngest Tower Hill student is Crichton Science Award Monica Joy Wilson graduating with the Class of 2010. Andrew Flectcher Singles Qiwei Claire Xue Certificate of Honor: Jordan Meloy Bills Mr. Patrick M. Ashley and Cum Laude Induction Mrs. Ann B. Ashley William J. Carveth Music Award Veronica Elise Everest Mr. and Mrs. Robert H. Bolling III Qiwei Claire Xue Caroline Elizabeth Holliday Dr. Robert M. Dressler and Andrew Scott Kreshtool Alison Arsht Leadership Award Dr. Susan Szabo Evan Samuel Kreshtool Jordan Meloy Bills Mr. and Mrs. Esteban A. Ferrer Michael Bernard Kreshtool Gabrielle Corey Dressler Mr. and Mrs. Edward S. Friedman Haon Award In Art Home And School Community Mr. and Mrs. Homer E. Graham III Molly Alexandra Rosen Service Award Drs. Mian and Ambereen Jan Certificate of Honor: Remy Elizabeth Denner Dr. and Mrs. G. William Keller Alexis Anne Saunders Certificates of Honor: Molly Alexandra Dr. and Mrs. Daniel R. Kreshtool Rosen, Katherine Ramsay Applegate Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey M. du P. Nielsen David E. Scherer Dramatics Award Mr. and Mrs. William V. Nutting Benjamin George Keller Home And School Athletic Awards Emily Rebecca Schuckert Boy: Demetrius Jayvonne Murray Mr. and Mrs. Michael F. Schubert Girl: Caroline Elizabeth Holliday Mr. Frank J. Singles and Algard Mathematics Award Certificates of Honor: Ms. Christine Sheehy Qiwei Claire Xue Katherine Ramsay Applegate, Mr. and Mrs. Lance L. Weaver Certificate of Honor: Emily Rebecca Schuckert Jordan Meloy Bills Spiller Achievement Award Faculty Awards Frank C. Ashby Foreign Language Award Patrick Barlow Ashley Caroline Elizabeth Holliday The Charles H. Arrington III Emily Rebecca Schuckert Trustees’ Awards Endowed Faculty Chair in Science Certificate of Honor: Service: Monica Joy Wilson Leigh Thompson Monica Joy Wilson Scholarship: Qiwei Claire Xue Timothy B. Golding Endowed Faculty Chair in English The English Department William Kitchel Faculty Chair Award Gretchen Lacey

On June 5, 2010, the Class of 2010 eagerly processed into the graduation tent where they received the highest honor possible—the Tower Hill diploma. / Prior to giving her speech, Jordan Bills presented Headmaster Chris Wheeler with the state championship trophy that the girls’ soccer team won the previous day. / Seated with the Class of 2010 were Associate Head of School Harry Baetjer; Headmaster Chris Wheeler; Former Board Chair Lance Weaver; Upper School Head Dan Hickey; Associate Director of Athletics Patty Marshall and commencement speaker Don Dietrich.

Tower Hill Bulletin Fall 2010 21 Jordan Bills’ Speech up as a detective and kidnapped Gaby. a huge smile and remember your name. I thought Joanna was going to die of He personifies the kind community we Today, we celebrate the achievements embarrassment then! However, I know have at Tower Hill. Another one of my of each member of the Class of 2010. I would not be the person I am today favorite memories is Field Day. Joanna, We have all worked hard to reach this without my family, and I’m sure Joanna Emily, and Kendall always won the day and deserve to celebrate. However, wouldn’t be either. Our families nurture dashes and it was a miracle when any we are not wholly responsible for who and support us, hold us close when other girl placed in the top three. And we have become, and we should also we are down, and celebrate, with great then there was the time when Pokemon use this day to recognize the influential enthusiasm, our success. Our families cards and Crazy Bones were banned at people in our lives. keep us grounded, bring meaning to recess. Everyone was really upset. Then, Our teachers our lives, and most importantly, love on the 4th grade trip to Williamsburg, at Tower Hill us unconditionally. To all of the family almost half our class got sick from the have been members here today to celebrate our food. On our trip to Sandy Hill, Monica extremely success, thank you. We are lucky to and Koko got swept away in their canoe important have you in our lives. and had to be rescued by Dr. Clay. They and this day Beyond this, family, friends and mentors never made it to the beach with the is as much a have influenced our development. While rest of us. And on our overnight trip to celebration writing college application essays or Cape Henlopen, we gathered around a of them interviewing at different schools, the camp fire and listened to the teachers as it is a question of who has been an influential telling scary stories while Mrs. Pepper celebration of us. Teachers are some person in your life always seems to come silently snuck up behind us and scared of the most selfless and devoted people up. For me, some of the most important us all to death. And who can forget in our lives. They are dedicated to people have been close family friends. I 9th grade History class with Mr. Bagley enlightening us and fostering a passion have learned much from the wisdom of when students’ books were tossed for continued learning. We are fortunate one of them. She is my former neighbor out the window, or being terrified of to have such wonderful teachers at and has always been like a third Ms. Thompson’s Chemistry class in 10th Tower Hill: Teachers like Dr. Hickey, grandmother to me. In her words, “Enjoy grade? All of these memories culminate whose bad dancing on the first day of each new day as you have lots of time with the intense Mario kart games this school we can never forget, or Senora to grow up, learn, and discover.” Don’t year and playing mini golf outside the Caimi, who terrified us on our first day forget this, class of 2010. Although we Senior Homeroom. These are just a few of Spanish in 9th grade, although we have developed much over the past of the special memories I have of Tower later found out she wasn’t so scary. And 18 years, we still have far to go. Hill, and I am sure that all of you could who can forget Mrs. Bailey saying, “Not think of many more. is not a verb, not is always an adverb” or In addition to our close friends and Mr. Hughes calling us “goobers.” The family, our peers have been undeniably In closing, however, I would like to recall teachers at Tower Hill care about more influential. Although we may complain one of my most vivid memories, 9/11. than our book knowledge; they care that we have spent most of our lives with September 11th, 2001 was my very first about us as whole people and want to the same 48 people, this small group day as a new student at Tower Hill. We see us grow and prosper. To all of our certainly has its benefits. Because of were starting 4th grade that day. At such teachers, thank you for the effort you such a tight-knit community, we have a young age, I barely understood what have put into our development and developed extremely close friendships. was going on, but Tower Hill did a very for always being there to support us How many people will we meet in the good job of keeping us informed without along the way. future that will know our middle names, making students too scared. They did both our parents’ names, and the ages of not shelter us from the news, but We have also been pushed to succeed our siblings? Our peers are like a family. rather, they told us what was happening by people outside of school. Speaking We are always there to support each and kept us as calm as possible. For for my class, I believe I can accurately other on good days or difficult days. We me, that day is a great example of the say that we have all been embarrassed have helped each other get through the nature of Tower Hill. Everyone was very or annoyed by our parents at some time. tough times and encouraged one another supportive of one another, and we truly Joanna Kelly probably best exemplifies to be the best we could be. We are truly came together as a community. I have this. At the 8th grade Moving Up Day blessed to have these friends and should found this to be true of every day at dance, Mr. Kelly offered to pay Juwan never forget the significant role people Tower Hill. Tower Hill is a supportive, if he would ask Joanna to dance. at Tower Hill have played in our lives. caring community, and I will truly miss Juwan made $20 that night. When it, as I am sure all of my peers will too. after prom invitations were given out One of my favorite memories is of to Seniors in March, Mr. Kelly dressed Marvin, who will always greet you with Thank you.

22 Fall 2010 Tower Hill Bulletin Demetrius Murray’s instance, Claire, who I don’t think spent classes, the rigorous course load, and Speech more than 5 minutes in the homeroom the top-notch facilities are all important per week. I love Claire, but I’m just factors, but the intangibles about Tower Man, I never saying, it would have been nice Hill are what made the difference. These thought this day to play Halo with Claire once in a include the highly committed teachers, would come. while. Secondly there’s Brian Felzer, the strong sense of tradition, and the Okay, that’s one whom I wouldn’t necessarily call tightly knit community that makes each cliché down. sweet, but every time one walked Hiller feel like family. That is what When we were in, he and Khaalid were sleeping we are ladies and gentlemen, one big freshmen I on the couches. family. Each individual under this tent is could never connected to the numerous successful When asked by my peers to speak, I picture ourselves Tower Hill alums saving the world or initially did not know what I would participating in graduation. I couldn’t delivering pizzas. This graduating class say. I learned that a few sincere words envision us dressed in white, looking so is just as significant as those previous of wisdom and from the heart are the fresh and so clean. What I did see was and those to come. Genesis and Kendall arguing every day way to go. So to my classmates, I wish in Mr. Bagley’s history class freshman you all the best of luck. It’s a crazy Lastly, I just want to say that I love year. However, June 5, 2010, seemed world out there, and our parents are just you all. The years we spent together, like it would never come. But at last and crazy enough to let us experience it on the trouble we caused, and the state when I say at last, I sure do mean it. our own. So don’t blow it. On a more championships we won will never fade Because there were times this year when positive note, have the time of your lives. in my memories. I’ll carry each of you we all felt we were walking towards a We will never get back the time we spent with me in life, and there’s no doubt mountain. We could see it, but it never together in high school, and the next in my mind you’ll do the same. In appeared to get any closer. To be honest, four years will be the same way. Turn up the words of Jay-Z, the self-professed I think we had that feeling almost every the fun meter, within reason of course. greatest writer of the 21st Century, day this year. I know you all can’t wait to dive into the “Welcome ladies and gentlemen to the exciting thrills of college. Neither can 8th wonder of the world, the graduation I must commend my classmates though, I. I’m pretty sure that most of you have of the century. It is timeless. Thanks for for we all have made it. Over land, seas, been in college since second semester coming out tonight. You could have been and skies, papers, tests, and web assigns. began, maybe some sooner. But I ask anywhere in the world, but you’re here We are finally here, 48 strong. Yes, there you to take these last few months here at with us. We appreciate that.” was a time when we had the largest class in the school with roughly 60 students. home and cherish them. For the sake of Thank you. However, one by one, and even a few by your mothers don’t be in such a rush to two, people left us. They thought they leave. Look at them, understand them, were so cool because they were going to feel what they are feeling. Let them hold their cute little schools. But that’s okay, their little baby, as they once did when because they missed out. They missed you were young, because no matter how out on great moments like when Will intelligent, or stupid we become, we stuffed a whole chair in Lucy’s locker. will always be the same to them. They weren’t here for Mario Kart wars To the parents, thank you for the that went down every day. Or how the countless sacrifices you have made senior boys always made a mess in the to put us through a phenomenal homeroom. We are young, wild, and like school with magnificent opportunities. Kanye West in 2004, we don’t care what Although we don’t always show our people say. In other words, we just may appreciation the way you’d like, we be America’s worst nightmare. But then certainly are grateful. I do believe that again, any class with three Kreshtools enrolling each of us in Tower Hill was and two Dedhias would be a nightmare the greatest thing you could have done. for anyone. Every moment is some kind Personally, I would like to thank my of heated argument. own mother for putting me through But don’t get me wrong, ladies and Tower Hill. However, I certainly did gentlemen. We do have some bright spots, not feel this way every day, but having mostly among the girls. Not all of us are been through it all, I finally understand wild animals terrorizing Tower Hill. Some that there is quite some value that goes of us are soft, sweet, quiet creatures. For comes with our high tuition. The small

Tower Hill Bulletin Fall 2010 23 Don Dietrich’s Speech Now this may not seem unusual for speech that Mr. Atkins delivered. It was a graduation ceremony—indeed, I’m inspiring, humorous, and eloquent. I am honored quite certain there will be many tears On many occasions, I lept to my feet and humbled shed this evening if not in the first to applaud his words of wisdom and, to be here hour of my speech certainly by the especially, his uncanny ability to rap! this afternoon end of the second. But my father—a Since plagiarism is the highest form sharing this highly decorated WWII vet, a factory of flattery, I thought I might try to memorable worker, and a union steward—was not replicate his effort. I’m here to tell you, occasion with an emotional man and I can tell you, unequivocally, that, after several tries— you. And I say with a great deal of certainty, that the I’ve come to the realization that I CAN’T memorable only tears shed in my house growing up RAP! I’ve tried it, and it just doesn’t because there were those of my siblings and me when work. I’ve tried listening to Snoop is no doubt in my mind that this day will we did something wrong and heard my Dog—Ice T—and 50 Cent—but got be one that will stay in the forefront of mother shout the six haunting words nowhere. Eminem & Big Lurch weren’t your consciousness for many, many that shook our very core—WAIT UNTIL any better. Bone Thugs & Harmony years to come. YOUR FATHER GETS HOME! almost got me there but Bow Wow and Although I graduated from high school I must say that I was not only surprised Coo Coo Girl only served to reinforce 44 years ago today, I remember it like but also touched by this public display my rapping inadequacies. Indeed, the it was yesterday. Now my graduation of emotion. Could it be, I asked myself, only people who seemed to think that ceremony was far different from yours. that I actually did something that made my efforts were worth listening to were The 48 of you processed onto this him proud? Well that thought was the people who pulled up next to me beautiful, idyllic campus by virtue of short-lived for it wasn’t long before I at red lights while I was rehearsing. the day that you began your studies at learned that it was not pride but relief Rarely have I witnessed such laughter Tower Hill. Conversely, there were 485 that brought my father to tears. He was at 6:30 a.m.!...and so, there will be no graduates in my class, and we processed relieved that after 5 years, the city of rapping...not tonight...not tomorrow into a stark, fairly unattractive football Chicopee, Massachusetts, finally decided night...never ...well...what the heck... stadium by virtue of our grade point to let someone else occupy my desk. so much for NEVER: average. We were led into the arena by our valedictorian—I had no idea who he Now I know what the eager young minds I’m sorry to disappoint was! Next in line was our salutatorian— over here are thinking...Mr. Dietrich just Cuz it just ain’t cool But if I tried to rap never laid eyes on her before! The made a mistake...we ALL know that high I’d just be the fool National Honor Society followed—they school is 4 years long and not 5...well, eager young minds, I have 3 words for very well could have been students I ain’t got the beat from another high school as far as I you—NOT FOR EVERYONE! And that is so clear was concerned!—and on and on it went Have you ever watched a movie or seen But I gave it a shot until I took my rightful seat in the very an episode of your favorite TV show In spite of my fear last row. But I don’t want anyone to feel that so moved and entertained you that Now whoever agrees sorry for me—you see I was there with you watched it over and over and over To this gig next year all of my friends!—the rest of the first again?—well that’s the way I felt about You don’t have to worry line of our Western Mass championship the 10th grade—two of the best years You don’t have to fear hockey team and nine of the eleven of my life! of us who started on defense for our It’s a piece of cake When Gaby extended the class’ undefeated football team all occupied Following Hugh and Don invitation to share some thoughts the last two rows. We could have had Hugh’s got the beat with you this afternoon, I was truly a team meeting. And Don will be gone excited, but I must confess that I also Well, it was a long wait—483 names had experienced several moments of anxiety So have fun and listen To this piece of advice to be called before they got to me—and and, well, terror. Now it may seem odd Just tune in to Lurch so, as I began to look around the stadium, that someone who has been speaking in And the T that is Ice I noticed my family sitting a short front of students and parents for over distance away...and then...on that sunny, 34 years might experience these feelings But if you don’t mind warm day in June...I saw something I but...you see...I was in the audience I’ll stick to Bobby D rarely saw in my lifetime...a tear was for last year’s graduation ceremony Joannie Baez, running down my father’s cheek! and recall, with fond memories, the Peter, Paul and Mary

24 Fall 2010 Tower Hill Bulletin So goodbye for now down to his knees—but it is the words Blaise and Preston to venture into inner- My rapping friend printed on that picture that epitomize, city Baltimore to share some time with Cuz this little ditty for me, the courage and dedication of homeless veteran’s who were residents Is about to end this faculty. It goes something like this: of an alcohol and drug rehab center. I want to speak to you today about “A hundred years from now it will not And what about Gaby who spent part courage. I’ve always tried to distinguish matter what my bank account was, the of last summer in South Africa with an between courage and heroism. While sort of house I lived in, or the kind of organization that provides services to heroism might be putting your life in car I drove – but the world may be HIV infected people—and Ben Keller danger to save another, courage, it seems different because I was important in who helped to build a central meeting to me, is that and more—it is living ones the life of a child.” facility for a village in the Dominican life with purpose and conviction. And while courage can be a collective Republic. In our lifetime, we have witnessed quality, there are always individual No—courage is not the province of the extraordinary examples of courage. acts that go well beyond the norm. As few—just look at Joanna who started I look out at my colleagues tonight, I There is, of course, the courage of those and presided over the Tower Hill see two shining examples of women who served their country in times of Abolitionists whose mission it is to raise who exhibited extraordinary courage— danger—from the jungles and minefields awareness of child sex trafficking—and Mrs. Matsanka and Mrs. Shorey. Both of Vietnam to the IED laden streets of Jenni who has ventured into downtown of these exceptional teachers had the Iraq and Afghanistan—these brave men Wilmington to serve meals to the courage to look cancer straight in the and women exhibited and continue to homeless at the Sunday Breakfast eye and shout, “YOU MAY TRY TO exhibit courage every day of their lives. Mission. It is truly the gift of the DESTROY MY BODY, BUT YOU WILL many—the gift that Jordan provided the And who will ever forget the horrific NEVER DESTROY MY SPIRIT!” You children that she worked with each of images of the thousands of Americans are both an inspiration to us all!! the past four summers at the Center for fleeing the smoke filled streets of And I am not the only one to recognize Blind and Visually Impaired Children in New York City on that fateful day in the courage of members of this faculty. Wisconsin—and the gift that so many September 2001. Yet the image that I The 48 of you did so when you chose of you give in support of the efforts of will always remember from that day was to dedicate your yearbook to two truly the DFRC. not of people fleeing but, rather, of the outstanding and courageous teachers— hundreds who were rushing TOWARD But acts of courage do not have to Mr. Martz and Mr. Pierson. That they the burning ruble we knew as the World be quite so profound. Indeed, it takes could put aside their own pain over Trade Center. These were men and courage to say to a person who is telling the years and concentrate on helping women who put their own safety aside a joke or making a statement that is you achieve all that you were capable in an effort to help people they did not sexist, racist, homophobic, or anti- of achieving is a reflection of both even know—THESE WERE MEN AND semitic that you don’t appreciate that their strength of character and their WOMEN OF COURAGE! kind of humor—that it is hurtful—and dedication. You could not have chosen that you would appreciate it if they But, you know, courage does not have two more worthy recipients. would refrain from using it in your to take on such magnificent and global Now what about our seniors? Have presence—or to say “NO”—to the forms. There are shining examples of they demonstrated acts of courage? person who offers you a drink at a courage around us everyday. I see people Indeed they have. When I look amongst party on a Friday night because you who have exhibited tremendous acts of you, I’m reminded of the courage it are driving and the people in your car courage sitting right in front of me— took for Logan—at the age of 13—to are depending on you. Yes, my friends, teachers who could have chosen far leave the comfort of her home to attend we see examples of courage all around more lucrative professions yet chose to school in Scotland—and the courage of us—every day. The courage to admit dedicate their lives to providing the tools her parents to let her do so. that you have made a mistake – to take necessary for the success of the young responsibility for your actions—it is people graduating tonight. And I see the courage that Katie exhibits what makes us special—it is what every time she reports for duty at the Before she died, my mother gave me a makes us the school that we are! Longwood Fire Company and boards framed picture of a young blonde-haired their ambulance ready to assist someone boy standing on a cliff overlooking his in need. favorite beach. I think the boy reminded her of me because his hair was all Yes, my friends, I see courage every day. messed up, and his pants were half way The courage that it took for Trip, and

Tower Hill Bulletin Fall 2010 25 Tower Hill School News

lower School relationships. As we open for the 2010- designing and maintenance of the 2011 school year, we look forward to garden. They were able to connect their By Jacquelyn Hamilton having two Tower Tot sections. experiences to other content areas such as writing, math and science. The entire A classroom can be This year, Spanish was taught in our Lower School was able to enjoy some of a place where life- Tower Tot through Second Grade classes. the early harvested vegetables during lunch transforming work The primary focus of the program is in the spring. The Tower Hill Summer unfolds as teachers to teach children to utilize Spanish as Program students will maintain the garden and students come a communicative tool. Activities are during the summer break. together around contextual in nature, encouraging the use big ideas. It can of language in authentic situations, such as One may think that each school day be a place where an understanding and common greetings, describing weather and ends at dismissal. It is at this time, knowledgeable adult helps to guide expressing feelings. Lessons are designed however, that the After School program students through the complex maze of and coordinated with the children’s grade begins to move at top speed. The growing up. It can be a community of level, the grade’s current thematic focus children eagerly begin their afternoon learners where one’s imagination is fired, and always with developmental progress activities in the regular program or many skills developed and dreams become in mind. Children in all Lower School of the wonderful enrichment activities. real. This is a snapshot of the Lower grades will be taught Spanish as we begin Lower School faculty joins the After School experience at Tower Hill. the 2010-2011 school year. School faculty to maintain a bridge between the two programs. During the We began the 2009-2010 school year In our Lower School, one can observe 2009-2010 school year, 220 Lower with another developmental level added. faculty connecting with students in ways School students participated in one or The students in Tower Tots, our new that provoke genuine learning and inspire more of the many options available. three-year-old program, began their active engagement with the questions Tower Hill experience in an environment at the center of the subjects they teach. The committed and enthusiastic adults that fosters literacy, mathematical The Fourth Grade faculty and students who shape the Tower Hill Lower School thinking and scientific inquiry through developed a plan and created a colonial experience embrace the importance of a a variety of multisensory activities. The garden as a new facet of the Fourth Grade child’s experience within and outside the development of social awareness and social studies curriculum. The students classroom. We continue to discover ways social skills through play cultivates gained first-hand knowledge about to remain focused on what really matters their ability to maintain collaborative colonial horticulture through the research, in teaching, in learning, in life.

UPPER School this year. It just so happened that the end of the ceremony to receive the state championship game our team was Alison Arsht Leadership Award. As we By Dan Hickey to take part in was scheduled for 7:00 shook hands and posed for a picture, p.m. the same day as our Senior Awards I whispered to Jordan, “Okay, you can Tower Hill’s ability Night, which was to begin at 4:00 p.m. go now.” I watched as she gracefully to allow students walked off the stage, sauntered down to maximize their Jordan was noticeably anxious to get to the game and even inquired if it the aisle, and broke into a light jog as potential was she exited the tent. A few hours later, once again on was okay if she could skip the awards ceremony to prepare for the big contest. she was a state champion. The next day, display during the she received her Tower Hill diploma. 2009-2010 school We told her that she couldn’t skip and that she would have plenty of time to year. The number of opportunities our The Upper School asks all of its students make the bus to the game. You see, students have to develop themselves is to reach for their best, and students Jordan didn’t know this, but she was to extraordinary. A wonderful snapshot of achieve this growth in different ways. receive a few awards at the ceremony. this phenomenon was evident in the But the opportunities and instruction we I promised to let her know as soon as end-of-year experience of graduating provide, coupled with the extraordinary she could leave. senior, Jordan Bills. Jordan, in addition talent and effort of our students reassures to being the President of the Student After receiving recognition for math us that, when we say to our students, Faculty Council, was also the sole and science early in the program, Jordan “Okay, you can go now,” that they are senior on our women’s soccer team finally came to the stage toward the very well equipped for the next contest.

26 Fall 2010 Tower Hill Bulletin Tower Hill School News

MIDDLE School Advisors and advisees found many ways The Lady Maryland, a schooner, and in which they could help the world. the Sigsbee, a sloop. The trip was cross By Pam Matsanka Following is an impressive list of some curricular, involving science and writing activities, as well as nautical history. We had an excellent of the service projects they completed: On the bus ride down, we were worried year in the Middle selling sodas at lunch to benefit St. Jude about the threat of rain, but as soon School. Our Children’s Hospital; recycling soda cans as we boarded the boats the sun broke teachers presented and collecting the tops for the Ronald through the clouds, the wind picked engaging material McDonald House; making T-shirts for up and we had a beautiful day on the and our students the Hoops for Haiti event; organizing a Patapsco River. The activities the Living devoured it with dodgeball tournament that raised money for the Michael J. Fox Foundation; Classrooms teachers led were quite gusto—as usual. We continued the interesting and fun. Later in the year the proven “extra” activities that we have presenting a chapel on heroes; collecting 500 stuffed animals and sending them Sixth Grade went to JA Finance Park, done for years to make Middle School a Wilmington organization run by the a unique experience for our students. to the village of Coba in the Yucatan Peninsula; sponsoring a bake sale to Junior Achievement, where they were The Fifth Grade Sandy Hill trip, the immersed in a reality-based, decision- raise money for the National Breast Seventh Grade Washington trip, the making process that addressed aspects of Cancer Foundation; running various Eighth Grade Cape Henlopen trip, the individual and family budgeting. Before booths at the Hoops for Haiti event; Eighth Grade Show, the Sixth Grade the trip, the reading, math, history and recycling paper; adopting a highway; mythology puppet show, and the Fifth science teachers incorporated lessons donating clothes to the Sunday Breakfast Grade stream watch, Kabuki shows, and into each of their programs to prepare Mission; making no-sew fleece blankets activities with the Pre-K buddies were students for the experience. Students the usual highlights that many alumni for the Alfred I. du Pont Hospital for were given a job and a budget and then may remember! It is the “extras” that Children; organizing a team to walk and had to make decisions on how much to © truly enhance our program, and as a raise money for the E-Racing the Blues spend on a mortgage, car, food, utilities, result, we developed new activities this event; participating in the Sixth Grade health care, investments, philanthropy past year that we hope will become just Chair-Y Gala; running a penny and coin and savings. After the event, one student as successful as the classics. drive that raised over $2,488 for the commented, “Now I know what you Leukemia and Lymphoma Society; and Participating in community service adults go through!” collecting blankets and toys for the is an important part of the Middle dogs and cats of the Faithful Friends We’re always thinking, plotting and School character development program. Animal Shelter. planning for new and better experiences This year we tried something new in for our students. While the “old our advisee groups to create more New to the Sixth Grade curriculum this classics” remain excellent activities community service opportunities and past year were two exciting trips that and adventures, we will continue to to help advisors get to know his/her we hope to continue in the future. In enhance our program by trying new and advisees better. Each advisory group October the class participated in the different activities that better prepare was asked to find and participate in at Living Classrooms Foundation, travelling our students for the challenges of the least one community service project. to Baltimore to sail on the tall ships— 21st century.

We’re always thinking, plotting and planning for new and better experiences for our students. While the “old classics” remain excellent activities and adventures, we will continue to enhance our program by trying new and different activities that better prepare our students for the challenges of the 21st century.

Tower Hill Bulletin Fall 2010 27 By Jack Holloway, Director of Athletics

When you hear that phrase “a the state tournament. The season began DISC co-champions. They ratcheted season to remember,” it usually entails to pick up steam with the boys’ tennis up the pressure on the fans with a a coach or a player reminiscing about team. After going 9-4 during the regular heartbreaking 9-8 loss to eventual a particularly special year for his or season, they posted a strong third place state champion Cape Henlopen. her team. Rarely does it involve the finish in the DIAA championship. The The following night found Green & grip placed by a school’s athletic girls’ tennis team set the bar high for White supporters again making the trek program on its collective community the rest of the spring teams with a hard to Dover to see the boys’ lacrosse team for a remarkable three weeks of state fought battle in the state tournament take on the Cape Henlopen Vikings in tournament thrills and excitement. that saw all the girls finish at or above their tournament seeds. Led by senior the DIAA championship semi-finals. Late May and early June are always Lucy Nutting’s indomitable spirit, the The Hillers were looking to advance busy times for Hillers with exams, girls brought home the championship to the finals and a rematch with last baccalaureate, graduation, parties and a and freshman Sydney Butler was 3rd year’s champions, nationally ranked host of end-of-the-school-year activities. singles champion. The fact that the girls Salesianum. Trailing 8-6 with less than This year, however, we hardly had a finished second by one point last year seven minutes remaining, the team chance to catch our breath! made the win more special. rallied for an amazing 12-8 victory that sent fans home checking their The excitement started with our baseball Girls’ lacrosse, led by Delaware’s Player BlackBerry® devices. team, which capped an 11-4 season with of the Year, Emily Schuckert, and their fourth DISC championship in the fellow All-Staters Caroline Holliday Meanwhile, #1 seed Tower Hill was last five years and earned the #8 seed in and Katie Applegate, finished 10-4 and moving forward in the girls’ soccer

28 Fall 2010 Tower Hill Bulletin tournament. Fans would have to Michael Pettit delivered the goal that The spirit in the school and throughout reschedule their Saturday plans in order will be remembered for a lifetime as the the Greenville area was contagious. The to catch the boys taking on Salesianum Hillers defeated mighty Salesianum! Class of 2010’s Awards Ceremony was in the lacrosse finals in the afternoon and The News Journal rightly dubbed the moved from 6:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., cheer on the girls’ soccer team in their game “the best high school sports and the entire Green & White nation quarterfinal tournament game that night. contest of the 2009-2010 year.” Seniors turned out to cheer the girls on against Ripley Nielson, Demetrius Murray and undefeated Caesar Rodney, led by Tension was at an all-time high at Trip Ashley, together with junior Chas three-time Delaware Player of the Year Caravel Academy as Coach Brad du Robino, were named First Team All- Jasmine Reeves. Tower Hill All-Stater Pont’s team took an early 1-0 lead over State and Ripley was named The News Gracie Firestone scored on a free kick at #1 seed Salesianum. Unfortunately, the Journal’s Player of the Year for Delaware. the 27th minute, and goalie sophomore Hillers couldn’t sustain the lead, and the Kelsey O’Donnell and her defensive Sals led 4-1 with less than three minutes Tower Hill was abuzz with two state teammates made the 1-0 score stand remaining in the game. The Green & championships and come-from-behind up, giving the Hillers their first-ever White faithful never wavered and were inspirational efforts. It was graduation state championship in girls’ soccer. rewarded when sophomore Michael week, but the athletic joy was not Pettit closed the gap to 4-2 with two yet over. The girls’ soccer team had The celebrations and parties finally minutes and forty seconds left to play. advanced to the DIAA semi-finals, where subsided during the summer, but Chas Robino brought the score to 4-3 they would meet Wilmington Charter, the Hiller spirit that permeated this with a goal scored with less than one the only team to defeat them during the community for those three special minute to go, and the fans prayed for a regular season. Once again the Tower weeks will be embedded for some miracle. Jake Graham delivered, scoring Hill community put aside their plans time to come. The athletes have their the tie goal with just 12 seconds left in and traveled to Appoquinimink High memories, the fans can rest their weary regulation. The teams remained tied School to support the girls who rallied hearts and Tower Hill lore is three state 4-4 through the first overtime period. from a 1-0 deficit to post a 3-1 victory championships richer. It was absolutely One minute into the second overtime, and move into the championship game. “a season to remember.”

Tower Hill Bulletin Fall 2010 29 Bob DeGroat 1921- 2003 Inducted in the Delaware Sports Hall of Fame

On May 19, 2010, Bob DeGroat analyze the pros and cons of each, then was inducted into the Delaware Sports come up with a solution equitable to Hall of Fame. Bob was the football both parties. It was an uncanny ability coach from 1946-1983 and coached that I truly miss for its veracity and the Blue-Gold All-Star games. Among balanced approach. the attendees were Headmaster Postwar, Dad viewed football as the Chris Wheeler; Athletic Director Jack ultimate team game. Due to his wartime Holloway; Associate Head of School experiences as an aircraft commander, Harry Baetjer; Ruly Carpenter, 58’; he realized that important contributions Chuck Hobbs ’65; Steve Hyde ’59; are made by each member of the crew. George Stetson, faculty member and He liked to say, “You may not particularly coach 1965-2000; George Herring ’49; like the guy playing next to you, but you Betty Richardson, Girls’ Athletic learn to cooperate to achieve a common Director, 1951-1996. DeGroat’s son, goal.” He stressed that principle as valid Rory ’70, gave the induction speech in nearly all circumstances that required which follows. Like so many others, Dad interrupted his dealing with people. career to participate in World War II. He Good evening. As the representative for flew heavy bombers in that conflict and Obviously, Dad had some very successful the DeGroat family, I would first like to was shot down with only two missions teams and enjoyed it when players extend congratulations to all the other left on his tour before he could have did well, but remained strictly old inductees tonight. Next, I would like gone home. He ended up, as he used to school. Later in his life, he was clearly to thank the selection committee, as I say, “an unwilling guest of the German dismayed by the antics taking place in understand it is a difficult and lengthy government.” end zones. All that dancing and carrying process to choose from so many worthy on was lost on him. Those who almost candidates. I am here to say a few words And in many ways, it was through ceremoniously drop the ball as they on behalf of inductee Robert George his experiences as a Prisoner of War cross the goal line would invariably get a DeGroat. Known by many as “Mr. D,” (or POW) that made him realize the “Hey! Someone has to go pick that up.” I was always instructed to call him importance of fairness and teamwork. He was always of the opinion that you “Coach” when I played for him, though What’s more, it toughened him. Two should flip the ball to the ref like you I knew him better as “Dad.” weeks in solitary confinement with one could score any time you wanted. The hour of light per day can do that. But Dad did not start out as a football vision of the team concept was always his confidence and poise in difficult superstar in high school. He actually at the forefront. situations also came through. During played soccer for Classical High School Not surprisingly, he used me as an an interrogation by the feared Gestapo, in Springfield, Massachusetts. It was example. I was the starting fullback he broke from the usual name, rank not until he went to Springfield College when we got his 100th win. Our first and serial number to remark, “I am that he started to play football. That, drive of the game went well, as our interested in sports.” in itself, was a little surprising, as his quarterback made great reads using our father, Harold DeGroat, was a famous Dad was never one to allow ego to cloud new triple-option attack. When we got baseball coach there at the time. That his judgment. After all, who else would inside the 10, he called a rollout (yes, Coach DeGroat ultimately had 139 refer to flying life-or-death combat as the quarterback called his own plays in wins at Springfield over 16 seasons and “an everyday job with attached personal those days), which required that I run was inducted into their Hall of Fame in risk?” He could be objective, almost what is now called a speedout. The pass 1980. Who gave the induction speech detached, about any subject and, was low, so I went down to make sure on that occasion? Me. without emotion, compare each side, I got my hands under it, rolled, and

30 Fall 2010 Tower Hill Bulletin quickly held the ball up so the ref could any given time. If he had ever had the with. Dad was involved early on and see I had caught it cleanly. Touchdown! time to watch Star Trek, he would have eventually coached in several of those We went on to win the game, and Dad identified with Mr. Spock, the science games. He was proud of his undefeated had his 100th. But, as was his habit, I officer, who said, “The needs of the streak there. I was fortunate to have was lectured on the unnecessary “flashy” many outweigh the needs of the few, been a manager, and, two years later, catch. And true to form, making the or the one.” Some intramural programs a player. I only wish my sons had the point was more important to him than came into existence because he saw a wonderful opportunity to participate in getting his milestone victory. need, as he wisely realized that there this program which does so much for so are students who just aren’t interested many, not only for the selfish reason of I find it remarkable that many people in interscholastic competition. He did having a third generation player in the over the last several years have told me not disparage them at all. It may have family, but more importantly, for them that Dad had a favorable impact on caused an increase in his work load, to see for themselves why Dad and I their lives. I know what you mean, and but he felt, much as his father did, that expressed such high admiration for this I believe he would have been amazed if school is used to exercise your mind, program that touches so many hearts. and pleased that he affected so many shouldn’t it also exercise your body? It is a truly unique experience, never people in such a positive way. And it should be accessible to everyone. to be forgotten. Interestingly, a coaching career at Tower Like many other fathers and sons, Dad As time passed, Dad began to realize Hill was not originally on his radar. and I knocked heads on numerous the importance of his contribution to the Dad had wanted to stay at the school occasions. One thing we could always War effort in 1944-1945. His experience a couple of years before attempting to agree on, however, was the magic of the as a POW gave him a special status progress up the ranks to the college and Blue-Gold All-Star Football Game. We among both military personnel and pro levels, but found the greatest need both believed that it is one of the most civilians. Speeches at Tower Hill would for his skills right where he was. He worthwhile events you can be involved allow an occasional glimpse into that believed in Tower Hill and its principles. difficult time in his life. Those that Those of you who knew him would heard his words never forgot such topics probably agree that he made the as the walking dead man or the lawyer correct decision to stay. who hated flying. His coaching style was different, His status was also elevated by local since he felt that most players governments with the issuing of ex-POW already knew when they made a license plates. He obtained one and was mistake. Dad never yelled, but you quite pleased with it in spite of himself. also had no trouble identifying One day he came out of a store to find when he was displeased. (That was a gentleman looking at it. The man true at home as well.) Embarrassing straightened up and asked, “Were you a the struggling athlete was never part POW?” Dad replied, “Why, yes I was.” of the plan. His explanations were The gentleman thought for a moment, always on point and easily understood. then said, “Isn’t it nice that they do that My brother Kerry and I both played for you retired post office workers.” football on what would ultimately Thanks again for inducting my father become DeGroat Field at Tower Hill. into the Delaware Sports Hall of Fame. Dad was proud to have his name I am sure he would have been honored associated with it but did not live long to be included among so many of his enough to see what a first-rate facility The Tower Hill School alumni surprised friends and colleagues. He might also it has become. Maybe he did show a Coach Bob DeGroat with a silver bowl in have been a little embarrassed by all the little ego after all. honor of his 100th career victory. fuss. There is certainly no doubt that he As the Athletic Director at Tower Top: DeGroat, pictured in 1957 with coaches and represents the best of what has become players, took several generations of gifted athletes known as the Greatest Generation. Hill, he was concerned with what was to statewide football prominence and cared about appropriate for the greatest number at the physical development of every student. Thank you.

Tower Hill Bulletin Fall 2010 31 New Administrators... Making a Difference

Jill Lauck, Director of College Guidance Jill Lauck earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Bryn Mawr College in 1998 and has been working with students and families since her college days, first as a tour guide, and for the past 12 years as a college admission officer. She began her work in admission for one year at Hampshire College, then moved to Wellesley College in 1999, where she worked until December 2005, overseeing student tour guides, event planning, recruitment and outreach letters, and reviewing applications. From January 2006 until spring 2010, Jill oversaw international admission as an Associate Dean of Admission at Princeton University, where she worked with more than 3,500 applications and applicants from around the world—work she loved. She joins the Tower Hill College Guidance staff full of energy, optimism, hope and good cheer for her students, and a love of baking, art and design. She will work with students throughout the school as they think about the college search and admission process and will work with seniors in their final year to help find the right university offering both intellectual and social fit for each student.

Julie Topkis-Scanlan, Chief Advancement Officer A Wilmington native and graduate of Tatnall School and Penn State University, Julie Topkis-Scanlan comes to Tower Hill as chief advancement officer from a 12- year career with Catholic Health East and most recently Mercy Health System where she was vice president of philanthropy and provided philanthropic strategic direction and executive leadership to four Mercy Health System Hospitals, Home Care and Corporate Services. She was responsible for increasing funding revenues and creating, implementing and building a system-wide philanthropy program from the ground up, which included restructuring of budgets, resources, systems and policies. Julie has most recently served as a Board member for Nativity Preparatory School of Wilmington, the Wilmington Music School, Delaware Community Foundation and other volunteer organizations. In her new position, Julie will lead the strategic direction of development and philanthropy, which will enable Tower Hill to grow fund-raising programs and enhance alumni relations. Julie’s daughter has been a student at Tower Hill since Pre-K and is entering the 7th Grade.

Kim Murphy, Associate Director of Advancement Kim has had a very successful career in development and brings many years of experience in fundraising to the Tower Hill School Development Office. She has been responsible for all facets of development programs including annual giving, endowment programs, alumni relations, and corporate and foundation giving. In her role at Tower Hill, Kim’s responsibilities include the Annual Fund program and grant writing. Prior to her position at Tower Hill, Kim’s efforts and energies were dedicated to raising funds at a private college and a hospital.

32 Fall 2010 Tower Hill Bulletin Tower Hill Bulletin Fall 2010 33 AROUND TOWER HILL

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34 Fall 2010 Tower Hill Bulletin AROUND TOWER HILL 1. On May 27, 2010, a reception was held for the Leadership Circle and major donors to celebrate the completion of the newly renovated Walter S. Carpenter Field House, the last phase of the Campaign for Athletics. The mural in the foyer recognizes the dedication of Mr. Carpenter as a founding member of the school and a generous supporter who donated the land where the field house stands today. 2. Attending the reception were Board members Pete Hayward and David Roselle, along with David’s wife Louise. 4. Chairs of the Campaign for Athletics Brad du Pont ’82, Linda Boyden and Fred Friebott thanked generous donors for their contributions and support of the campaign. 3. Juniors and seniors in the Studio Art classes display their creative works in the Pierre S. 7 8 du Pont Arts Center on April 9, 2010. Senior Trip Ashley is congratulated by Upper School Head Dan Hickey during the reception. 5. Grandparents’ Day on April 23, 2010, was attended by over 600 grandparents and special guests. They enjoyed visiting classrooms and in many cases participating in activities with the students. 6. Summer at Tower Hill, our new summer program, successfully concluded its second year in 2010. Enrichment, academic and sports programs, were offered along with a day camp. The Phillies camp was one of the most popular. 7. The 88th Annual Field Day on May 28, 2010, began with a dedication of newly renovated Walter S. Carpenter Field House for students and the Tower Hill community. After a tough competition, “Greens” won the event. 8. The arts continue to flourish at Tower Hill as 9 evidenced by the Middle School instrumental holiday concert in December 2009. 9. Students in Lower, Middle and Upper School sponsored “Hoops and Hope for Haiti” on February 28, 2010. The fundraiser, in support of Haiti earthquake relief efforts, included a student/faculty basketball game and other events, raising over $10,000 for the American Red Cross. 10. Parent and Former Board Chair Lance Weaver was one of the speakers at this year’s Forum speaker series entitled “Morality vs. Ethics.” Weaver spoke on business ethics and was introduced by his daughter, Logan, a member of the student Forum committee.

10 11 11. Moving Up Day on June 11, 2010, was a joyous celebration recognizing our 8th grade students for their accomplishments during Middle School. 12. The 55th annual DFRC Blue-Gold All- Star Football Game was played on June 19, 2010, at the University of Delaware Stadium. Representing Tower Hill were senior player Demetrius Murray, Lexi Saunders (center), Katie Applegate and Christy Pletz (left) and their “Buddies” (in yellow). 13. A welcome and exciting change to the Evening of the Arts this past April was the addition of small vocal and instrumental groups who engaged audiences while they were perusing the visual artwork 12 13 throughout the building.

Tower Hill Bulletin Fall 2010 35 Making Tower Hill History Thanks to MargaretOver Porch Lounsbury ’37 (left) and Julia the Years 1. Girl’s Tennis Ann Patterson McKay ’39 (right) we’re documenting Tower Jean Lytle Reynolds ’38 Hill history. The alumnae have been sorting through Georgina Miller Bissell ’38 hundreds of old photos in the Alumni House and identifying Bettina Bonner ’36 their fellow classmates. A real trip down memory lane! Elizabeth Schoonover Cobb ’36 2. Girl’s Basket Ball Jane Kurtz Marvin ’36 Mary Fowler Curtiss ’36 Eliz Schoonover Cobb ’36 Patricia Moseley Trepagnier ’37 Bettina Bonner ’36 3. Play Peggy Bradley Sherman ’31 Dr. H. Clinton Davis ’40 1 Mary Davis Buerki ’43 E. (Libby) Pearce Van Leeuwen ’43 Robert S. Wilson ’41 Sherman C. Lloyd ’36 Barbara Stine Cruici ’42 Mary Hughes Preyer ’42 Walter Chadwick Carol Wolff Rendall ’40 Frederick J. Blatz, Jr. ’40 Doris Mears Pugh ’40 George K. Landon, Jr. ’42 Sarah L. Springer ’42 2 3 4. Girl’s Hockey Dorothy McKee Sawin ’29 Alice Huxley Green ’28 Katharine Boyd Derrickson ’28 Eleanor Sawin Russell ’27 Charlotte Steers VanWinkle ’28 Renee Carpenter Draper ’28 Helen Turner Fairchild ’28 Ellen Wood ’25 Deborah Rood Milke ’27 Dorothy Ackart Nichols ’26 Elizabeth (Betty) Stirling Tate ’28 Janet Stirling Chaplin ’28 5. 1933 Girl’s Varsity Hockey Winners of the Wilmington Field Hockey League Cup for the third straight year, thereby retiring the cup. Forward Center: Jane deBlois ’34 Front Row: Margaret (Libby) Zeisberg Guthrie ’35 4 Mary Ann Ranken Reese ’34 Bettina Bonner ’36 Gabriella Mahaffy Milnor ’37 Middle Row: Elizabeth (Biz) Schoonover Cobb ’36 Eleanor Dill ’35 Mary Fowler Curtiss ’36 Elizabeth (Didi) Gawthrop Bush ’34 Betty Moseley Kiesling ’36 Back Row: Marian Warner Trotter ’35 Mrs. Ellen Baldwin (Coach) 6. The “Picnic House” in 1925-1926. Built off of Route 141 near Overbrook Road, the “Picnic House” was 5 6 constructed by the shop class.

36 Fall 2010 Tower Hill Bulletin AT TOWER HILL

Recognize yourself or classmates in these photos? We would enjoy hearing any details from our alums. Your input will also enable us to keep our archived records updated. Thanks! Contact Kathy Warner at 302.657.8358 x 235 or [email protected].

A B

C D E

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Tower Hill Bulletin Fall 2010 37 Alumni events in 2010 ranged from a reception in New York to gatherings closer to Tower Hill. Our goal has been to nurture and deepen the connections between Alumni alumni and with Tower Hill School. We are always looking to create events and programs that will appeal to all ages, Events and we appreciate your feedback and suggestions.

1 New York City Reception Photos 1-3: On April 14 about 75 alums from the New York City area joined Headmaster Chris Wheeler and Brad du Pont ’82 at the William’s Club of New York for 2 an alumni reception. Wheeler invited everyone to visit the campus to see the newly renovated Carpenter S. Field House, which was finished and reopened in May 3 2010. Lacrosse Coach Brad du Pont, talked about his team’s success this past spring. Steve Hyde ’59, former faculty and coach, as well as Wiz Applegate ’79, teacher, coach and parent, were on hand for lively conversations about the school—past and present. Kathy Warner, Director of Alumni Programs and Development Office Special Events, credited Ashley Altschuler ’91 and 4 Board Trustee Matt Twyman ’88 with enthusiastically encouraging classmates and others from the Tower Hill community in NYC to attend. Senior Dinner Photos 4-6: The Alumni Council held the Senior Dinner 5 for the Class of 2010 at Brantwyn in May. The speaker was Wiz Applegate ’79 who talked about what it means to be a Tower Hill alum. Among the graduating seniors was Wiz’s daughter Katie. 6 Golf Outing Photos 7-8: This year’s annual Golf Outing hosted by the Alumni Council and held at Delaware National Golf Club was a great success thanks to our co-chairs Wes Schwandt ’86, Doug McCoy ’82 and Rob Crowe ’90. About a hundred participants enjoyed a day of golf, a luncheon and cocktails followed by an awards dinner with Headmaster Wheeler, members of the Alumni 7 Council, other alums and friends of the school. Proceeds benefitted Tower Hill’s Annual Fund and the Alumni Association Financial Aid Fund.

8 Wilmington Holiday Gathering On December 18 the Alumni Council once again invited Wilmington area alums to a holiday gathering hosted by Mike Kelly ’75 and his sister, Mary Ann Kelly MacDonald ’79 at Kelly’s Logan House. Monty Hayman ’87, president of the Alumni Council, joined Headmaster Chris Wheeler and other members of the Tower Hill community to celebrate the holiday Season.

38 Fall 2010 Tower Hill Bulletin Homecoming & Reunion 2009 Sharing Memories and Renewing Friendships—Reunion Weekend October 2-3, 2009

1. The homecoming lunch and barbecue was a favorite gathering time for students, alumni, parents, grandparents and friends.

2. The Saturday schedule of events kicked off with the 5K Run/Walk.

3. Tours of the Tower Hill facility included the main building along with the recently renovated athletic and physical education

1 facilities. 4. The Class of 1979 celebrated their 30th reunion on October 3 at the home of Wiz Applegate.

5. The Alumni Games, a fairly recent addition to the reunion weekend, included soccer and field hockey games, and were open to alums and their families.

6. Headmaster Chris 2 3 Wheeler joins Robert (Rob) Brown ‘34 for lunch during last year’s homecoming.

7. The Class of 1969 celebrated their 40th reunion.

4 5

6 7

Tower Hill Bulletin Fall 2010 39 Calling all Hillers! COME HOME! Homecoming & Reunion 2010 October 22-23

Saturday Events—October 23, 2010 For Everyone 8:00 a.m. Homecoming 5K Run/Walk—Register on the terrace of the Alumni House; Run/Walk starts at 8:30 a.m. on 17th Street at the main entrance of the school. vents 9:00 a.m. Sue Johnson Memorial Round Robin Tennis

E Tennis courts; Field House in the event of rain Noon -2:00 p.m. Lunch—Under the Homecoming Tent

of For Alumni

9:30 a.m. Alumni Field Hockey, Soccer and Flag Football—Field Hockey on Richardson Field; Flag Football on DeGroat Field 5:30 p.m. Reunion Reception—For Classes ending in “5” and “0” at the Hayward House. Enter from Tower Road. Class photos begin 6:00 p.m. The Arts 2:20 p.m. Comedy Combat Improvisation Troupe—On the grass near DeGroat Field All day Heather McEvilly ’93 displays her graphic designs

chedule P.S. du Pont Arts Center Tours and Open House 10:00 a.m. School Tour—Main building, 1919 Auditorium, Field House with Headmaster Chris Wheeler and Associate Head Harry Baetjer 2:15-3:00 p.m. Hayward House—Visit the 1st floor of our new facility for alumni events 2010 S Dedications 11:45 a.m. John Pierson Dedication—Bench near Alumni House 1:45 p.m. Straub Dedication—Alumni House Terrace

Athletic Events Friday—October 22, 2010 3:45 p.m. Field Hockey (3rd Team) vs. St. Mark’s—Richardson Field Volleyball (3rd Team) vs. Concord—Weaver Gym 6:00 p.m. Volleyball (JV) vs. Wilmington Christian—Weaver Gym 7:30 p.m. Volleyball (Varsity) vs. Wilmington Christian—Weaver Gym Saturday—October 23, 2010 11:00 a.m. Field Hockey (Varsity) vs. St. Andrew’s—Richardson Field Soccer (Varsity) vs. St. Andrew’s—DeGroat Field Soccer (JV) vs. St. Andrew’s—Nitsche Pitch 12:30 p.m. Field Hockey (JV) vs. St. Andrew’s—Richardson Field 1:00 p.m. Soccer (3rd Team) vs. St. Andrew’s—Nitsche Pitch 2:00 p.m. Cross Country (Boys) vs. St. Andrew’s—Rockford Park/De Groat Field 2:10 p.m. Cross Country (Girls) vs. St. Andrew’s—Rockford Park/DeGroat Field 3:00 p.m. Football vs. St. Andrew’s—DeGroat Field

40 Fall 2010 Tower Hill Bulletin Calling all Hillers! COME HOME!

Homecoming & Reunion Registration

Name/s Class of Home Phone Email ______

How many will be joining us for lunch (12:00-2:00 p.m.)? ___Alumni/family ___Students ___Parents ___Grandparents ___Faculty/staff ___Friends

Will you be joining us for the Reunion Cocktail Reception on Saturday, October 23, at 5:30 p.m.? Name/s ______

HOMECOMING 5K RUN/WALK—8:00 a.m. Registration Name/s Run/Walk Relation to THS Age T-Shirt Size (S/M/L/XL) (Youth/Adult) ______

SUE JOHNSON MEMORIAL ROUND ROBIN TENNIS—9:00 a.m. Name/s ______Detach and mail or fax to Tower Hill School

ALUMNI GAMES: FIELD HOCKEY, SOCCER, FLAG FOOTBALL—9:30 a.m. Former field hockey players join Wiz Applegate. Family and friends are welcome to join the Alumni Council and Monty Hay man for soccer or flag football. Name/s ______

Waiver for Tennis, 5K and Alumni Games In consideration of this entry being accepted, I, intending to be legally bound, hereby for myself, my heirs, executors, administrators, waive and release any and all rights I may have against the organization holding this event, its agents, representatives, successors, and assigns for any and all injuries suffered by me at said event.

______Signature (parent if participant is under 18) Date

Mail or fax this completed registration form to: Tower Hill School, 2813 W. 17th Street, Wilmington, DE 19806 Phone: 302.657.8353 Fax: 302.657.8373 Or register online at www.towerhill.org.

Tower Hill Bulletin Fall 2010 41 Stay Connected Update your e-mail address / towerhill.org / Go to Login and My Profile Class Notes 2010

Births 1994 Thayer Poppy to Mary Rose and Deaths Buzzy Hannum on October 2009 Charles “Terry” Baker III ’50 on It’s a Boy 1994 Margaret Eveland “Margo” to October 20, 2009 1990 Rory Dillon, Jr. to Jennifer and Kate Lopez Weymouth and her Rory Conway on October 27, 2009 husband Timo on May 10, 2009 Duncan G. Bolton ’38 on October 1, 2009 1991 Devak Johnston (DJ) to Anjali Rao 1996 Blair Beaumont to Meghan and James R. Cobb ’60 on January 16, 2010 Martin and her husband Greg on Luke Semple on April 30, 2010 John G. Craig, Jr. ’50 on May 26, 2010 December 20, 2009 1997 Ayla Jade to Sara and Matthew 1994 William Douglas to Whitney and Auerbach on February 25, 2010 Susanne Denham Singer ’44 on October 21, 2009 Gray Thouron on July 21, 2009 Twins 1995 Matthew Mark, Jr. to Tara Morgan Margaret du Pont Smith ’48 on 1991 Charlotte and Becket to Melissa and Hoopes and her husband Matthew September 20, 2009 Michael Flynn on October 6, 2009 on May 16, 2010 Sarah du Pont Cahill ’47 on January 24, 2010 1996 Pell to Elizabeth Neilson Schmeiser and her husband Bryan on October 7, 2009 Weddings and Unions Henry G. Law ’58 on September 19, 2009 1996 Pembry Keller married Pedro Saez Kenneth Nwannunu ’06 on October 22, 2009 It’s a Girl on May 1, 2010 1989 Genevieve Joy to Jennifer and 1997 Dave Jaquette married Amy Collen John C. Pierson, Jr. ’59 on November 29, 2009 Tony Lunger on March 29, 2009 on August 22, 2009 Carroll F. Poole ’39 on October 15, 2009 1997 Lisa Mariko Webster married 1990 Paige Quinn to Amanda Golding Robert N. Pyle ’44 on March 18, 2010 Riegel ’94 and Chip Riegel on Doug McLane on June 2009 May 3, 2010 2000 Arushi deFonseka married Louisa Spruance Morse ’30 on October 22, 2009 1993 Margaret Burton to Abbi Keller Jack Breaux III on September 5, 2009 Wagner and her husband Benjamin 2001 Heidi Johnson married Emalea Warner Trentman ’32 on on June 7, 2010 Michael George Beris on May 22, 2010 January 23, 2010

Peyton Riegel holds her baby sister Paige Quinn who was born on the same day as her, May 3. Both are daughters of Amanda Golding Riegel ’94 and Chip Riegel ’90.

42 Fall 2010 Tower Hill Bulletin Update your e-mail address / towerhill.org / Go to Login and My Profile Stay Connected Class Notes 2010

1942 1965 35th Reunion Year Doris Slawter Eldridge writes that this past Karen Farquhar writes that all is well in Port November she and her husband, Jim, took a Clyde. “I was in Monhegan Island with Robin southern Caribbean cruise to celebrate their McCoy ’62 and her beau, Jim Blano, and 65th wedding anniversary. the time was filled with the events of Trap Day. Trap Day is the island’s first day of setting out 1950 50th Reunion Year lobster traps.” Betty Keith Luke’s grandson, David P. Lazar ’06 graduated from Duke University on 1970 30th Reunion Year May 16, 2010. Nancy Ritter Raftery’s grandchild S. Ward (Trip) Casscells, M.D., the Tyson graduated from Miami University of Ohio in Distinguished Professor of Medicine and Public May 2009. She has a granddaughter at Dickinson Health at the University of Texas at Houston, College, and her grandson has been accepted wrote an article dealing with health care reform, at Skidmore College. which was published on February 9, 2010, in the Huffington Post entitled Americans Have 1951 a Prescription for Congressional Health Care Brad du Pont ’82, Bill Kitchel ’77, John Black ’82 and Ed Beacom ’67 at the Bradford Camps Renis Siner Paton has 10 grandchildren—­ Delirium. Stefan Kozinski began a search in in Maine this past October. nine boys and one girl. 2006 for a new job in the German theater system, which meant being ready to move to another city. in Elkton, Maryland. Charlie’s son, Charles III is 1959 In July 2008 he was invited to join the Theater in the 9th grade at St. Andrews. Charlie and his Louise “Fibbie” Schoonover Smith thoroughly Bremen as a coach and musical caretaker of wife, Amy, live in Earleville, Maryland, with their enjoyed her 50th reunion at Tower Hill last its opera studio. Stefan thanks Tower Hill for daughters Katie, age 5, and Lauren, age 31/2. October. Alice Woodcock Smith was sorry to making the effort to reach him after so much Charlie writes that he has been running into have missed the 50th reunion. She attended Tower time. “It is beautiful to be remembered, and I friends from school at his son’s lacrosse games. Hill from kindergarten to 9th grade, moving away will try at a calmer point in our season to be Robert A. Bank was promoted last year to Chief to Colorado when her mother remarried. Since then in Wilmington once again.” of Civil Works, Engineering & Construction for she has lived in Germany, Houston, Brazil, Columbia the Headquarters, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. and Houston again. She lost her husband in 1990 1972 He is responsible for design standards and and is now remarried and living in a friendly village Sarah Beste Logan was promoted to Assistant technical criteria for worldwide U.S. Army Corps in England not far from Oxford. If you are going her Vice President for Institutional Research and of Engineer’s projects. Last October, a segment of way, please get in touch. Effectiveness last June at the University where the Dr. Oz Show was filmed at Tower Hill School. she has worked now for ten years. Joe Rubini and Steve Hyde, former faculty and football coach, participated in the filming by 1973 sharing reminiscent stories about the school and H. Cheryl Rusten has been working at Fox about Mehmet Oz. When the segment aired on Chase Cancer Center since December 2008 as the show, it was a surprise to Mehmet. Even more a Research and Evaluation Manager. “I feel of astonishing was that as the show was airing very fortunate to have found this great job Joe and Steve walked onto the stage! during a tough economy.” Class of 1959 members Bill Wood ’59, 1986 Christopher Getman and Steve Hyde gathered this past fall with John Pierson ’59 (May 14, 1941– 1978 W. Mott Hupfel III is about to have his third November 29, 2009), second from the right. John Hughes writes that his mother, Jody, movie released in September. It is called Jack passed away June 13, 2010, and wanted to get Goes Boating. Mott is the director of photography, 1960 40th Reunion Year word out to the Tower Hill community. She had and it is the first movie Philip Seymour Hoffman Gail Rothrock Trozzo has completed a many friends at Tower Hill School and also worked has ever directed—plus he stars in it. preservation plan update for Prince George’s as a speech therapist for some of the students County in Maryland—challenging and fun! Gail over the years. Jody’s grandson Ted starts in the 1987 is looking forward to her 50th Reunion in October 4th grade this fall. Charlie Scott continues to Erik Wildt lives in Scarsdale and rides trains and and seeing others from the class of 1960. practice law at Scott and Scott, the family firm subways to work at the New York Stock Exchange.

Tower Hill Bulletin Fall 2010 43 Stay Connected Update your e-mail address / towerhill.org / Go to Login and My Profile Class Notes 2010

1991 1997 Anjali Rao Martin and husband, Greg, Elizabeth Jennings writes that she lived in welcomed their first child on December 20, 2009. Vancouver, B.C., for two months and worked Devak Johnston Martin (DJ) joined them with the as a Product Merchandiser for the Coca-Cola blizzard of the decade and was the best gift Company during the 2010 Winter Olympics. for Christmas!! 1998 1993 Brian J. Smigielski was invited to continue Gabrielle Rappolt-Schlichtmann, who received a his research in Physics at The College of William doctorate in Human Development and a master’s & Mary, Williamsburg, Virginia. While there, he degree in Behavioral Neuroscience both from worked on his thesis and then returned to the Harvard University, spoke to Tower Hill’s Upper University of Washington in Seattle to obtain School students in February 2010 as part of this his doctorate. Brian received his Doctorate in year’s Forum series on the subject of ethics of Theorectical Nuclear Physics on May 7, 2010, Will and Charlotte Evans, children of Moley and graduated on June 12. Brian has accepted scientific research. She is a research scientist Karas Evans ’94 and husband Nicholas, for the Centre for Applied Special Technology, a during the holidays. a post-doc position with the Institute of Physics, non-profit research and development organization National Centre for Theoretical Sciences, National that works to expand learning opportunities for 1994 Chia-Tung University in Taipei, Taiwan, and began all individuals, especially those with disabilities. Moley Karas Evans writes that she is living his research there in August. Major John C. Lemay is currently at Fort with husband, Nicholas, and two children, Leavenworth, Kansas, as a student in the U.S. Charlotte and Will, in Arlington, Virginia. “I own Army Command & General Staff College. Jody an after school arts enrichment and summer Allen is living on the Upper East Side for about camps company called Left Noodle—Right eight years and has done some TV and improv Noodle. My husband works in Government work there, but he has mostly focused on his Relations. Life is good.” Dr. Katharine Lopez new career with Barnes & Noble, Inc. where he is Weymouth welcomed her new daughter, Margaret currently General Manager of their new flagship (Margo) on May 20, 2009. Katharine and her store at 86th and Lexington. He ran the New York husband enjoyed catching up with friends at City Marathon in November for the first time her Tower Hill School reunion this past year. finishing in the top 10. In June 2010 he went diving for 2 weeks in Fiji, most of it exploratory 1995 15th Reunion Year diving on virgin reefs in the outer islands. Last David Larned was the subject of a Roger year Jody was selected to compete on Jeopardy! Morris article, “The Sitter and the Painter” in Jody was in Los Angeles for the taping and told The Hunt Magazine’s Winter 2010 issue. With Alex Trebek about his time at Tower Hill and being degrees from the University of Pennsylvania, on the Academic Bowl, thanking Elliot Mitchell, the Florence Academy of Art in Italy and the Gerard Baltazar ’98, a surgeon, and Maria his Science teacher, for the guidance and support Karas ’98, a cardiologist, had the opportunity to Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, Larned has collaborate in the care of a patient at Memorial he gave as a faculty advisor. Jody and Dimitri been painting portraits—for which people will Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Pappas still get together once in a while in be remembered—for over ten years. Philly. Dimitri went to Harvard Law School after 1999 graduating from Princeton. He is now the General 1996 Leslie Moroz graduated from Jefferson Counsel for his family’s agriculture business Daniel K. Moon and his wife, Anna, both Medical College on May 29, 2009. She and in New Jersey. Dimitri is married and lives in graduated from Harvard Business School Alexi Mascitti ’00 were in the same class. Philadelphia. and moved back to NYC, where their happy sister, Patricia works and lives! David, Anna 2000 10th Reunion Year and Patricia joined other NYC alums at the Arushi deFonseka married Jack Breaux III, Tower Hill School reception at the Williams formerly of New Orleans, at The Plaza in New Club of New York. York City on September 5, 2009. Brother Jehan

44 Fall 2010 Tower Hill Bulletin Update your e-mail address / towerhill.org / Go to Login and My Profile Stay Connected Class Notes 2010 deFonseka ’03 was a groomsman. Other Hillers Coach Brad in attendance included Doretta Mistras ’00, du Pont ’82 got his 100th lacrosse win Justin Devotta ’00, Elizabeth Crowe ’00, on April 3, 2010, Nick Villalon ’00 and David Lunger ’03. defeating St. Andrew’s. Arushi and Jack met in Pittsburgh at a medical Five alums joined him in coaching the conference where they were both presenting team, including Greg research. After a honeymoon in Paris, they are now Mackenzie ’06, completing their residencies in Internal Medicine Thomas Martel ’07, Sean Baetjer ’05, in Los Angeles. 1st Lt. Emily McConnell Arthur Nick Jacobs ’05 and and her husband Todd moved to Dover last July Matt Moyer ’05. and are both stationed at Dover Air Force Base. He is a C-5 pilot and she is a contracting officer. It’s nice to be back in Delaware! Alexi S. Mascitti graduated from Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia on May 29, 2009. She began a www.cieloymarproductions.com, that showcases 2008 pediatric residency in New York City at NYU in his photo and video work in aviation as well Caitlin Van Sickle played on the UNC field July and plans to specialize in neonatology. Alexis as underwater. hockey team who won the NCAA Championship will marry fellow Jefferson classmate, Michael J. this past November. Van Sickle made the assist Brown, of Saratoga, New York, on September 18, 2005 5th Reunion Year in the remaining seconds of the game to give 2010, in Wilmington. Teagan Gregory graduated from the University the Tar Heels their sixth NCAA championship. of Delaware as a top student. He is pursuing his 2001 education at the University of Michigan Law School. 2009 married Michael George Beris on Heidi Johnson 2006 Meghan Lyons was named to the 2009 National May 22, 2010. Alumnae in the wedding party were Field Hockey Coaches Association National David P. Lazar graduated from Duke University maid of honor Heather Johnson Pitambe and Academic Squad, which requires a cumulative on May 16, 2010.The University of Delaware field bridesmaids Christiana Wray ’01 and Kelsey grade point average of 3.30 or higher. Meghan hockey team, which made one of the nation’s Robinson ’01. attends the University of North Carolina. Delaney biggest turnarounds in 2009 when the Blue Hens Osborn, who attends the College of William captured the Colonial Athletic Association title 2003 and Mary, loved Tower Hill according to her and advanced to the NCAA Tournament, was On February 23, 2010, Hugh Bender made grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Robert S. Powell. Keep presented its championship rings in a ceremony Forum history by being the first graduate to up the good work! Justin Hicks, who ran indoor on February 16, 2010. Recognized were players participate in the Forum series to have attended and outdoor track at Bucknell University last year, Lizzie Lewis and Caroline Campbell ’07. the forums while he was a student at Tower Hill. broke four all-time top ten records. He made the Ben Morris-Levenson has been selected a In his presentation entitled “The Ethics of Stem All-Patriot League First Team and was named Student Marshall at the University of Chicago. Cell Research,” he explained the strengths, the Rookie of the Year for Track and Field. He is one of the third-year students who have weaknesses and the ethics behind three distinct excelled academically and demonstrated types of stem cells. He reminded students that outstanding commitment to significant extra- Faculty stem cells are not “the” miracle cure, rather they curricular activities on campus and in the Wiz Applegate, Middle School teacher and are vital in confronting current medical issues, community. Student marshalls assist with the girls’ lacrosse coach, was inducted into the and a balance can be achieved between the university convocation ceremonies, and on Delaware Lacrosse Hall of Fame at the Delaware ethical issues and the potential therapeutic uses. occasion, they represent the student body Lacrosse Foundation’s annual banquet on June Ann Marie Gamble completed her third year at other special University events. Blakely 10. Applegate, who has coached since 1989, has as an RN at Johns Hopkins Hospital. After two Ashley, member of the Princeton women’s guided the Hillers to five state championships years in cardiology, she is in the Medical Intensive tennis team, was undefeated this year in Ivy and eleven DISC conference championships. Care Unit. Anthony M. Hidell lives in Dallas, League play. The Princeton team swept the Ivies She has been active in lacrosse for most of Texas, after being relocated by his employer in April, after beating Columbia to complete a her career in Delaware and nationally as a CIGNA International, where he is a New Business 7–0 Ivy season and earned a return trip to player, coach, administrator and parent. Luba Manager. John Holzman has a new web site, the NCAA Championships in May. Berbeza, Office Manager for the Development

Tower Hill Bulletin Fall 2010 45 Stay Connected Update your e-mail address / towerhill.org / Go to Login and My Profile Class Notes 2010

Office, attended the taping of the Dr. Oz Show Librarian, with help from former reading teacher, Archives and a special program with the U.S. in December 2009. After the show, she had the Ellen Bryant, who has ties to the author. Cinda Parks Service at the FDR Memorial. Frank was opportunity to meet with Dr. Mehmet Oz ’78 Crane, Middle School Librarian, and Ellen invited to return later this year and consult on and presented him with a paperweight from Dolmetsch, Lower School Librarian, attended the the new educational program involving research the school. On June 24 and 25, Karen Bohn, American Library Association Conference in June on the Constitution of the United States at the Lower School Reading teacher, participated in in Washington, D.C. Director of Libraries, Ellen National Archives. Tower Hill Seventh Graders will a two-day Wilson training workshop in Valley Potter was a contributor to an article entitled be among the first in the nation to participate in Forge, Pennsylvania. The program—Just Books, Books Everywhere, But Nary a One in the program once it is launched when they travel Words®—is a study of word structure designed Print by Norm Medeiros. She also supplied views to Washington D.C. next spring. Trina Tjersland, for students with word-level deficits. The on Cushing Academy’s (college prep school in Drama Department Chair, finished her last class knowledge gained from the training can be Ashburnham, Massachusetts) action to remove at NYU and received a MA in Educational Theatre. readily implemented to complement language all books from their high school library and go Headmaster Chris Wheeler is delighted to arts programs currently in use in Lower School digital. Admission Director Kelly DeShane, announce that his book was finished over the past classrooms. Sara Bush, Lower School Music, Associate Director of Admission Bill Ushler summer and is due to be published early in the is writing a musical based on a well-loved lower and Technology Department Head Joe Smolko fall. The book is called Inside Their Headships: school book called The Aaraboolies of Liberty attended the May 2010 ADVIS Admission Retreat Conversations with Independent School Heads Street written by Sam Swope. The book deals featuring Alan November, Founder and Senior and contains 11 interviews with current and with individuality, freedom and tolerance in Partner of November Learning. In July Frank former heads of school. a way that children can understand. Sara’s Singles, Middle School History, participated in musical will be performed by the First and a summer institute in Dover, Delaware. The Age Former Faculty Second Grades during the upcoming school year as of Roosevelt program was part of the Historical John Newlin, former Head of the Middle an arts-literature-diversity event and will involve Literacy Project grant Frank received from the School, published an article in Independent the Lower School, Drama Department and Library U.S. Dept of Education. Historians, children’s book School magazine in the spring 2010 issue. In Department. In addition to the performance, Sam authors, and curriculum specialist presented his article Enhancing School and Parent Swope will make an author’s visit to the school materials related to the teaching of Franklin D. Connections, John writes about promoting in conjunction with a book signing. Coordinating Roosevelt and the New Deal. The group traveled effective communication with parents on the event will be Ellen Dolmetsch, Lower School to Washington D.C. for a workshop at the National behalf of their children.

Great care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of this publication. We sincerely regret any errors or omissions and ask that you notify us so that our records can be updated.

46 Fall 2010 Tower Hill Bulletin At Tower Hill School we believe in doing many things well. We nurture nuclear physicists, doctors, surgeons, researchers, and scientists. Our students become leaders, innovators and citizens of the world. When you give to the Annual Fund, you join others in being stewards of an educational experience that is distinctive to Tower Hill. Give today by visiting www.towerhill.org/makeagift, calling 302.657.8358 ext.252, or mailing your gift to Tower Hill School Annual Fund, 2813 W. 17th Street, Wilmington, DE 19806.

Tower Hill Bulletin Fall 2010 47 n emoriam John PiersonI • MayM 14, 1941–November 29, 2009 By Headmaster Chris Wheeler

Last November 30 the normal hustle others as an organizer, fund-raiser and and bustle of Tower Hill School was all-around doer. John was the model for suddenly quieted by news of John selfless dedication and service to others Pierson’s passing the night before. and his example will remain the gold Even though the news was not a standard for years to come. shock­—we all knew that John’s quiet Shortly after John passed, his children and courageous battle with cancer was Jay, Corbin and Tucker worked with coming to a conclusion—a loss such as the school to establish a merit-based this was felt at the school’s core. And scholarship in their father’s memory. at that moment, a Tower Hill fixture for The John Pierson Scholarships are 41 years became a Tower Hill legend. awarded to a few newly admitted 9th John’s direct connection with Tower Hill grade students for their demonstrated actually spanned 53 years, a staggering commitment to academic excellence, fact which must certainly be one of the community involvement and service, longest in school history. He began in and physical fitness. The first class of 1946 as a kindergarten student. John Pierson scholars have entered Tower Hill was five years old and Tower Hill School this fall and their presence on campus was in its 27th year. These were the are daily reminders of John’s powerful Guernsey years and familiar Tower Hill legacy. The Pierson family and Tower legends such as Cecile Buckles, Julia Hill School welcome your contribution Jones, Harry Algard, and Bob DeGroat to the John Pierson Scholarships. Please were in their prime. After an excellent service to Tower Hill over the next 41 send your donation to the address below. academic and athletic career at Tower years would be marked by excellence Hill, John graduated in 1959 and left The Pierson family also invites you to as a teacher and coach and by a sense Wilmington for Hamilton College where attend the dedication of a bench and of commitment to community without he received a degree in French. John’s plaque presented in John’s honor at parallel in our school’s history. John strengths as a student, athlete and Homecoming. The ceremony will take taught in the Middle School, continuing community member were recognized place on Saturday, October 23 at the tradition of grammar-intensive at Hamilton where he received the 11:45 a.m. sharp on the Alumni Walk English instruction pioneered by Cecile Gelas Memorial Prize for “outstanding just a few steps away from the Golding Buckles and Jean Morton. He coached development, sportsmanship, leadership, Alumni House. The bench and plaque both boys’ and girls’ junior varsity and strength of character and athletic ability will be placed in front of two Dogwood varsity sports. But it was his dedication during his college years.” These qualities trees overlooking DeGroat Field at to and involvement in numerous would be in evidence for the rest of his Stoltz-Alumni Stadium. community service activities that he life. After Hamilton College John took a may be best remembered for. John was Fourteen years as a Tower Hill student, teaching position at The Landon School a co-founder of the Green and White 41 years as a Tower Hill faculty member, in Bethesda, Maryland, and then at the Club and was active for decades with community leader and coach, St. Louis Country Day School in the Delaware Foundation Reaching 53 years of a life dedicated to the ideals St. Louis, Missouri. Citizens with Intellectual disAbilities of a school and to the students and John was enticed back to Tower Hill to (DFRC), to name but a few. It would be faculty that fill it. Thank you, John, for teach English and to coach football and safe to say that John spent thousands all you did for Tower Hill School. You basketball in 1968. His distinguished and thousands of hours in service to will be forever in our hearts and minds.

Contributions may be sent to: The John Pierson Scholarships, Tower Hill School, 2813 W. 17th Street, Wilmington, DE 19806

48 Fall 2010 Tower Hill Bulletin We want to hear from you! Share your news about career changes, weddings, engagements and births with your fellow alums.

Submit your news to [email protected] or online at www.towerhill.org-Alumni/Class Notes. Or send them to: Class Notes, Kathy Warner, 2813 W. 17th Street, Wilmington, DE 19806

Look for Tower Hill on a new and improved Facebook page this fall! Non-Profit Org. Tower Hill School U.S. Postage 2813 West 17th Street Permit No. 562 Wilmington, DE 19806 Wilmington, Delaware

Please keep us informed with all updated addresses.

Renovated Walter S. Carpenter Field House, May 2010.