Cover: Lower school visual arts teacher Robert Davis (ASL 2015–present) Crazy Hair, 2015 writes, “Grade 4 artists have been by Vittoria Di Meo ’24 exploring line, shape and form— Artist Vittoria joined ASL in Grade 2 in concentrating on lines being the building 2013. Her favorite subjects are music blocks for our ideas. The students were and art. She says, “I like to express my asked two questions: ‘What does a line feelings and thoughts in art class; I like look like?’ and ‘How do we make line Contents to be creative.” Outside of school, Vittoria express movement?’ They recorded their enjoys ice-skating (even though she finds responses in their journals and used it scary!), climbing trees, writing stories, their findings as guidelines for our first drawing, and exploring London. activity: Crazy Hair Day! Using hair as a subject, they focused on repeated patterns, variety and creative line expression. For inspiration, the students looked at the contemporary sculpture of Ai Weiwei, Chris Burden and Marcel Broodthaers—artists who use non- traditional materials in their art. Discussion followed on what makes a sculpture a sculpture. Our discussions helped introduce their found sculpture project. The students used material 4 Center stage at ASL! 12Commencement Auf18 wiedersehen adieu… usually tossed aside (used markers, broken pencils, etc.) to build their small A look at the performing arts at The Class of 2015 celebrate at A fond farewell to 11 long-serving creations. They had to construct their ASL over the years Central Hall Westminster members of faculty and staff works to enable them to stand without support, and record their designs in their notebooks. This actively engaged their problem-solving and critical- thinking skills."

Accents, Fall 2015 Our mission is to develop the intellect and 22Crocodile Rock in ASL’s Gym! All30 the world’s a stage! character of each student by providing an © The American School in London outstanding American education with a Time travel back to 1973 Alumni in the performing The American School in London global perspective. One Waverley Place when Elton John played ASL’s arts share how ASL shaped London NW8 0NP The American School in London is a gym—twice! their careers United Kingdom non-denominational school and does not T +44 (0)20 7449 1200 discriminate against any individual in any way F +44 (0)20 7449 1350 on the basis of race, color, gender, sexual [email protected] orientation, religion, or ethnic or national www.asl.org origin in the administration of its recruitment, admissions and educational policies. The magazine is mailed without charge to current parents, alumni and former faculty and staff, and to many parents of alumni and friends of the School. Editor: Wendy Robinson Contributors: Cathy Adams, Bruce Balas, Mary-Louise Barker, Esther Cole, Lydia Condon, Roger Corrigan, Robert Eringer ’73, Dervla Flynn, Rich Harris, Jack Harrison, Buck Herron, Gallery 3 Harold T. Cruikshank Award 16 Coreen R. Hester, Alice Iacuessa, Marika Ison ’07, Libby Jones, Laura Lewis ’77, Sandy Mateus, & News Jan Mikrut, Margaret Pringle ’91, Stan Ratoff, Chris Siegfried, Yolandi Strydom, Dave Sutherland, Spotlight on London 10–11 Dream Big, ASL! PCA Auction 16 Paul Svensson ’75, Steve Townsend, William Vaughan, Tim Watson, John Wilson, Bear Van Wyck Class notes 34 New Frontiers: Our Promise. Our Future. The campaign for ASL 16 Photography: Alex Lloyd Photography, Astonleigh Studio, Lydia Condon, Current Rutledge, Fisher Hart, Di Holmes, Marika Ison ’07, Libby Jones, Cynthia Larson Richard, Char Lukacs, Faculty notes 43 Hurray for the Annual Fund! 17 Daniel Philips ’21, Craig Prentis, Cynthia Rand, Wendy Robinson, Sean Ross, Paul Svensson ’75 Family notes 43 30 years of Ms. Hamadache! 21 Design and illustrations: Powell Allen Ltd Alumni news 44 Alumni return to ASL 21 Printer: Empress Litho Ltd In memoriam 49 Trustee news 21 The American School in London, founded in 1951, is an independent, non-profit, college preparatory day school for students in Kindergarten through Grade 12. The student body comprises 1,350 boys and girls who represent more than 50 nationalities. Gallery The American School in London Below: used to be a graphic designer. Although HS art teacher Martin Drexler P ’23 (ASL Educational Trust Limited Eden Schulkes ’16 drawing and painting is one of my favourite 1995–2001; 2008–present) says, “This The Debacle activities, I am also extremely fascinated by painting was produced in our Advanced Studio Members of the Board of Trustees Oil on canvas, 2015 science. Therefore, my current favourite classes Art class, a yearlong course involving a The United States Ambassador to the are AP Physics and AP Chemistry, despite semester working on still life, followed by Court of St. James’s Artist Eden writes, “I moved to London in their arduousness. With the pressure of these another learning the art of portraiture. First, The Hon. Matthew W. Barzun, 2008 from the countryside in France, and have classes I deeply value my AP Art class for students study the proportions of the face, and Honorary Chair been at ASL since then, starting in Grade 5. providing me with an opportunity to release my work at blocking in shadow shapes. Their first I consider myself Dutch even though I have stress in painting. Additionally, outside of class sketch is in charcoal, followed closely by a David Novak, Chair never lived in The Netherlands, and I speak I enjoy participating in community service second work in black and white oils. The final Julie G. Skattum, Vice Chair Spanish, Dutch, and used to be fluent in French, organised by my school. Last year, I was also a piece is created with a limited palette in oil Coreen R. Hester, Head of School but unfortunately lost the language after years mentor for the Middle School Robotics team, on canvas. It’s the individual student’s decision David Abrams of not using it. I am a triplet, and both of my which helped me acquire the confidence to join on whom to paint. Some choose to do self Cynthia Bake sisters are just as passionate about art as the High School Robotics Team this year, and portraits, while others elect to portray R. Derek Bandeen I am, following in our mother’s footsteps who hopefully I will continue exploring both art and someone else.” Caroline M. Clark science in university.” Christopher Finn Ivan Gazidis Priya Hiranandani-Vandrevala Letter from the Head of School Paige Jernigan Donna M. Lancia It seems like yesterday. Our new School Center for Education and Alison LeMaire Rebecca Manuel the Arts opened in late 2007, and our inaugural ceremonies featured Liad Meidar a wonderful set of middle school music concerts and a spectacular Dwight M. Poler ribbon-cutting event with Kevin Spacey, until recently artistic director Elaine Proctor-Bonbright Larry Richter of the Old Vic Theatre. The entire Center was filled to the brim with William H. Roedy people who had responded enthusiastically to the invitation to see Erin Roth and hear Kevin at ASL—and who better to christen our new facility Thomas Sheehan Ramez Sousou than a well-known American actor promoting the arts in London? William T. Tucker Chris Whitman The whole high school cast of West Side Story was on stage behind Kashif Zafar Kevin as he kept us riveted with stories about acting, his career, Advisor to the Board of Trustees and the importance of theater in a young person’s life. The highlight Richard A. Bailey of such a memorable evening? When Kevin Spacey performed a The American School in London soliloquy from Henry V for the students. And what trumped the Foundation highlight? As Kevin uttered the final lines, the ASL theater students— Barry M. Sabloff, President Brad F. England, Vice Chair on the spot—recited the prologue from Henry V right back to Kevin. Coreen R. Hester, Head of School He was so stunned—and impressed—he fell to the stage in a Albert D. Angel convincing swoon in homage to our ASL thespians! And truly, it Alison Blood Daniel F. Coughlin seems like yesterday. Timothy Craighead Linda Ely In this issue of Accents, you will feel as if yesterday has come alive! John R. Farmer Never before published pictures of the Elton John concerts from Lori E. Fields 1973—thank you, Paul Svensson ’75!—and wonderful reminiscing David E. Fife ’89 Margaret Grandy from a long chorus line of talented, dedicated directors, actors, Diana H. Greene musicians, and dancers. And how fun to feature ASL alumna William C. Mules Elna Baker ’00 as our 2015 graduation speaker. Her reputation Janet Newkirk David Novak as a comedienne was reinforced that day, judging by the laughter William A. Obenshain and applause from all in attendance. William A. Plapinger William L. Scheffler ’66 As I write, I have just arrived home from this fall’s high school Susan J. Wilen production—High School Musical—which plays to sold-out The American School in London performances this week. The arts are alive at ASL! Foundation (UK) Limited William A. Obenshain, President Warm regards, Andrew J. Sukawaty David I. Stillman

Coreen R. Hester Above: Daniel Philips ’21 (P ’02 ’04; ASL 1995–97, 2007–present) Mrs. Hester, 2015 Head of School

2 The American School in London Accents Fall ’15 3 1 Feature 1 The King and I 2 The Philadelphia Story 3–10 Seussical Jr.

2

N the School’s illustrious 65-year On the subject of dance, Bronwyn Fleece by Dominique Vaughan, in 1985. history, the performing arts have continues, “Our lower school students Jan explains, “During a trip to Vienna, always had a huge role to play at recently welcomed an expert on Victorian we were invited to give an impromptu ASL. From the early days when dance as part of their unit on all things rendition of ‘Jason’ in St. Stephen’s IMildred Buhler, mother of Fred Buhler Victorian. An African dancer spent time Square in thick, falling snow!” ’58, led square-dancing classes for with middle schoolers this year, and a According to Jan, The King and I was ASL’s male-only population, alongside Bollywood specialist shared her skills a magical production. “The cast did an female partners from local schools, with middle and high school students. incredible job, and the teachers involved the need to break out of the class- We seize every opportunity to bring the worked well together and with the room to flex acting muscles, sing like performing arts to life at ASL.” students. Audrey Moskowitz (ASL nobody is listening, and dance the The School’s performing arts history is 1971–96) created outstanding costumes, light fantastic have been urges awash with faculty members whose fervor Ray Ruehl (ASL 1978–93) designed generations of ASLers have found for their subjects transformed the lives of the sets, Mary Miller ’79 developed the hard to resist. the students in their charge, and helped choreography, and Mary Louise Barker After speaking to a number of alumni fan the flames of lifelong passions in (ASL 1977–2003) organized the music. directors, we learn that by far and away those who took their classes. We did it because we loved it!” the most popular memories for returning Jan Mikrut (ASL 1974–98), former Jan remembers an amusing moment ASL alumni, whether from the Class director of theater arts at ASL—now during a very romantic scene in The of 1965 or 2015, are those from the working at the Spence School in New York Philadelphia Story, featuring Solange productions they starred in, the choir City—explains the philosophy behind the Weinberger ’85, now MS languages concerts they performed in, and the program during her tenure. “Theater is an teacher Solange Kidd (ASL 1996– friends they made along the way. organic art that requires the cooperation, present). “Beautifully staged in moon- Nothing resonates with ASL students creativity and skills of an ensemble. light and formal wear, the ingénue, played more than taking to the stage. Theater skills and appreciation were by Solange, floated across the stage in Performing Arts Department Head developed by students’ active involvement a stunning black evening gown—with a Bronwyn Harrison P ’25 ’29 (ASL in the design and building of all aspects three-foot-long piece of loo paper clinging 2001–present) tells of a flourishing of a production. Learning by doing.” to her dress with static electricity!” A program today in the performing arts In her 24 years at the School, Jan great lesson was learned in checking across the divisions. “I’m thrilled to directed countless productions with ASL for costume glitches. report that we have more students than students. She has warm recollections of Middle school drama teacher Stan ever setting off on Music Tour this year. many performances, but standouts for her Ratoff (ASL 1982–present) has And our drama classes are attracting are Rodgers & Hammerstein’s The King amassed a wealth of experience since students K–12—and not just those and I, staged in ASL’s Annenberg Theater he joined the School in 1982, making who want to act. Drama workshops with in 1979; The Philadelphia Story by him one of the longest-serving current London-based group ‘Perform’ are Philip Barry, from 1984; and a unique faculty members. To Stan, drama is a highlights for all grade levels.” performance of Jason and the Golden vehicle for developing self-expression,

4 The American School in London Accents Fall ’15 5 bringing to life the Bard of Avon in his Feature “Although it appears in many ways to be classroom well before Keith! High school drama teacher Buck a comedy, audience members find them- Herron (ASL 1998–present) has directed hundreds of ASL students in selves juxtaposed with accepted norms. his career. Singular projects for Buck are The Laramie Project by Moises Kaufman, This had a deep and profound effect. Avenue Q by Jeff Whitty, Antigone by Sophocles, The Drowsy Chaperone by The challenge for the students was to Bob Martin and Don McKellar, and The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde/ raise their skills to unify the puppet and Neil Bartlett. Antigone was Buck’s first production their character to be seen as one, which at ASL after taking over from Jan Mikrut at the helm of the drama department. is not an easy thing to do. The students The text was being studied in an English class and the crossover appealed to the managed it to incredible effect.” newly appointed drama teacher. Buck says, “I love the play’s symbolism. Our production was ambitious and the scale of it was enormous. I remember we had a drawbridge and a Greek chorus in tableau.” And it’s said that former English self-awareness, social skills and Dream and Lockers by Jeremy Kruse. teacher Mimi Flood (ASL 1997–2010) communication. He adds, “At the same Lockers brings back happy memories shed a tear in appreciation. time, students learn how to play. And for Stan because of the unusual staging. Buck remembers The Laramie Project through playing they learn stage presence “The actors promenaded around the and the electricity of the production. “We and acquire story-telling skills, which is a School, delivering monologues and integrated film into the piece, which was bonus in other areas of their education. moving on. And it had such a relevant very powerful. It gave the sensation of It’s important to afford them space to message for middle school kids. It was watching the action in real time, which explore and ‘let go.’ Ultimately, they ground-breaking and very well received.” added such gravitas to an already learn to work together.” Stan recalls Seussical Jr. as a fun emotive story.” It’s a tough call to ask Stan for and creative production. He says, “The Of The Picture of Dorian Gray, Buck Overleaf: 1–3 Midsummer Night’s Dream 1–6 Winter concerts in the School Center favorite productions, but after some students rose to the challenge and comments, “The material was so edgy, 4–6 The Picture of Dorian Gray 7 A Light in the Darkness consideration, he cites Seussical Jr. by convincingly created the fantastical world I had to do it!” Having seen the play at 7 Avenue Q 8–10 Prettiest Friend Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens, of Seuss at ASL. There was a wonderful the Abbey Theatre in Dublin, Buck was 8–18 The Drowsy Chaperone 11–14 Kevin Spacey on set of West Side Story Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s atmosphere on stage.” charmed by the piece. It transpired that Like any Shakespearean play, A the production would not move on to the Midsummer Night’s Dream presents its National Theatre, as planned, and so trials, but the middle school actors Buck approached the play’s adaptor, Neil were undaunted. Stan explains, “I was Bartlett, to ask if he could bring it to ASL. thrilled that the students delivered such Bartlett readily agreed and the rest is a magical, humorous performance. The history. “The adaptation reads like a cast was very strong, and so was the film script—there are more than 27 support we received for set and costume scene changes,” admits Buck. “We used design. I think the forces came together.” lights and sound and minimal furniture, He continues, “Of course, former HS and it worked!” The play’s shocking English teacher Keith Millman (ASL conclusion made this a truly memorable 1974–2014) was delivering Shakespeare piece of theater in ASL’s celebrated in the hallways long before our back catalogue. performance!” And more than rumor has Of the more recent productions, it that Don Jesse (ASL 1964–91) was Buck holds great affection for Avenue Q, a play that saw puppets play a major role in the success of the performance for the first time at ASL. Buck says, “Although it appears in many ways to be a comedy, audience members find themselves juxtaposed with accepted norms. This had a deep and profound effect. The challenge for the students was to raise their skills to unify the puppet and their character to be seen as one, which is not an easy thing to do. The students managed it to incredible effect.”

6 The American School in London Accents Fall ’15 7 encourages meaningful artistic packed our biggest performance space Stephan Potchatek’s (ASL 2004– Earnest at the Vaudeville Theatre. He Performance expression, while providing a hands-on to the rafters. AMIS (Association for Leading lights present) Dramatic Literature and completed the run in early November, approach in drama, music and dance, Music in International Schools) was Performance class attended several plays making an appearance at an alumni and and adding to the richness of students founded by former ASL teachers Dick and as part of their coursework, including parent of alumni celebration at a nearby at ASL today overall educational experience. Georgia Bassett (Dick, ASL 1974–96; in London Sam Shepard’s True West at the Tricycle venue on the last night. And comedian At ASL, the study of dance addresses Georgia, ASL 1974–95) and is now Theatre, Ibsen’s Peer Gynt at the Barbican and author Elna Baker ’00 returned in Today, the performing arts are just as the use of the human body and physical directed by another former ASLer Keith No article about the performing arts Centre, and Electra at the Old Vic. June to deliver the commencement important a part of the curriculum as movement as an expressive art form. Montgomery (ASL 2001–14). at ASL would be complete without Buck is keen to emphasize the address to the Class of 2015 at Central they ever were. The departmental Students explore a wide variety of genres As they enter high school, our drama mentioning the perennial star of the show, benefits of bringing London’s finest to Hall Westminster. philosophy is to cultivate creativity and and styles during their studies—from students mature in discipline through London itself—arguably, the arts capital Waverley Place. He says, “Over the years, Buck continues, “Regularly, expression by fostering the development hip-hop to ballet. They learn through technical skills that foster deeper of the world. Our students, like those who we have invited guest practitioners to opportunities arise in our own back yard. of outstanding performance skills and observation, physical expression and expression in voice and movement, came before and those who will come teach master classes, including Jonathan In November 2014, our St. John’s Wood aesthetic awareness in all our students choreography. while tapping into the emphatic inner life after, enjoy the richness that London has Leverett, stage combat instructor at neighbor, Eva Schloss, Auschwitz survivor, through high-quality experiences in Music for our older students brings of creating character. Students practice to offer. RADA and the Royal Shakespeare author and stepsister of Anne Frank, dance, music and drama. the much-anticipated reward of the their art by acting in scenes and full As Buck Herron wrote recently, “London Company; Bruno Zeni, Commedia dell spoke to our middle and high school Our youngest students enjoy an long-established annual Music Tour; dramatic works. Scene work using film provides a rich, dynamic and creative Arte artist from the Royal Opera House; students after each performance of A experiential program, involving singing, this year, our students are off to Bonn, scripts lends a modern approach, as cultural education for our students.” He and West-End playwright Leo Richardson, Light in the Darkness, a play based on her playing, listening, creating and moving, to spread the wealth of what they have students examine content and technique acknowledges that our capital offers an who wrote a play in collaboration with life. The chance to hear Eva’s story as with a focus on participation, enjoyment learned with audiences in Germany. appropriate to this media, resulting in abundance of experiences in drama, ASL actors.” The outcome from the latter one of the last Auschwitz survivors living and creative expression. At the same Former tours have taken students to heightened communicative and overall dance and music. was the play Prettiest Friend, a moving in Britain and the final link to Anne Frank, time, an understanding of the role of Paris, Madrid, Athens, The Hague presentational skills. In 2003, Buck remembers 10 of our piece of theater about the complicated was a valuable experience—and some music in world culture is encouraged. and Prague. The community looks forward to female students working as the angelic nature of friendships within a high school. 900 of our students saw the production. Having worked their way up from Students also participate in a the upcoming fall production of High voices in Bright Young Things with director He continues, “Our actors learned Hopefully, those same students will share recorders to ukuleles in the lower grades, number of International Honor festivals, School Musical, directed by Buck Herron. Stephen Fry. about both the acting and writing their memories of the encounter with their the middle school program is designed including Band, Choir, Jazz Band, and And in February, middle school students In 2008, as a result of the successful components of a production.” own children some day, and keep Eva’s to develop students’ understanding Orchestra, which bring together students will come together for an eagerly Fulfilling Great Expectations capital Buck is thrilled to share that Leo will hope for a peaceful world alive for through ensemble participation. Students of exceptional ability from around the anticipated performance of Shakespeare’s campaign, the restructured Annenberg return to ASL in spring 2016 to work with another generation.” work on developing instrumental and globe for several days of rehearsal much-loved tale of star-crossed lovers, Theater was unveiled as the new School a group of students to build another play At ASL, we continue to explore the vocal technique, reading music fluently, and performance. Romeo and Juliet, directed by Stan Ratoff. Center for Education and the Arts, from the ground up. The students and power of art in students’ lives, examining and becoming comfortable and confident Only recently, the School played host complete with improved acoustics, a the playwright have met already and plans our humanity through our experiences and performers. There is a strong emphasis to the AMIS International Boys’ Honor state-of-the-art sound and lighting system, are underway for what promises to be a effecting change in others and ourselves. on rehearsal skills and teamwork. Choir. The end-of-festival concert took and seating for 450. The Old Vic’s must''see production during semester II. London is the perfect place for us to In the High School, it’s time to place on Saturday, 17 October, after three creative director at the time, Academy This summer, Michael Benz ’00, who pursue this discovery. ■ specialize. Offering a depth of curriculum days of rehearsal. The School Center Award-winner Kevin Spacey, addressed cut his acting teeth in A Circus, directed rarely seen outside of specialist resounded to the swell of nearly 100 the community on the set of West Side by Stan Ratoff, played a lead role in performing arts schools, ASL’s program voices raised in song at an event that Story as part of the celebrations! Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being

8 The American School in London Accents Fall ’15 9 Spotlight on London Spotlight

Primrose Hill This is a familiar sight for ASL alumni. For some years, graduating seniors have gathered as a class to watch the sunrise from Primrose Hill just days before graduating from ASL—their high school days over and on the cusp of the adventures to come. Grade 7 students in the Outdoor Games and Fitness elective use this landmark space for competitive games, three times a cycle. Enthusiastically led by PE teachers Rich Harris (ASL 2011–present) and Grant Hiller (ASL 2014–present), and Grade 7 Aide Sean Ross (ASL 2009–present), students leave the bounds of One Waverley Place, at a run, to enjoy the great outdoors on our doorstep. Mr. Harris reports, “The boys and girls love leaving the ASL campus during the school day. They treat each other well and there’s a great sense of sportsmanship among the whole group. We focus on a positive team spirit and the kids respond brilliantly. After we’re done, we run back to ASL all the better for time spent in the open air.”

Photo: Sean Ross

10 The American School in London Accents Fall ’15 11 FeatureTitle 1 So what of her sage advice to Summing up her experience, Elna the Class of 2015? “There’s a lot encouraged each graduate to make a of hullabaloo to graduating,” choice about what s/he wants to do and Elna started. “But it’s scary. go for it—even if it ends up being the Beginnings and endings are wrong choice. “You’ll learn that on the always the hardest.” Offering way,” she reasoned. According to her, comfort to those who might ‘making it’ involves a combination of be wrestling with self-doubt, effort and time. “If you want big guns, she remarked, “…for any do push-ups,” she shrewdly offered. late bloomers in the Underscoring the importance of chasing audience, don’t worry: your dreams, Elna reminded the Class of most of life happens after 2015 that they only have one shot at life. high school—trust me.” “So do something you love, be it robotics, Elna described how or dance, or being a mother, or a she struggled initially as a dog-walker, and you will be a much new student at ASL among happier, more fulfilled person. Because her self-confident, talented you’ll want to work. Because it’s your peers. Unhappy and insecure, passion. And this work will bring you her English teacher and dean closer to knowing and figuring out who John Carpenter (ASL 1998–99) you are and helping others do the same.” encouraged her to start writing. By the Elna’s concluding remarks elaborated end of the year, Elna had earned the on the art of failure, and why we shouldn’t Grade 11 English Award and had found be afraid of it. “The world needs Commencement speaker a supportive community. innovators,” she urged. “You won’t be an Commencement Elna Baker ’00 “I am forever grateful for that teacher innovator if you’re too focused on being who helped me believe in myself when good or liked, or a constant success for the Class of BY LIBBY JONES, DIRECTOR OF I didn’t,” she recalled. She also lauded story.” Rather than avoid failure, Elna ALUMNI RELATIONS Mr. Herron for helping her write her first advised that this generation avoid stand-up routine. “He taught me that distraction. “There is an entire culture S an ASL student, she I had something incredibly valuable to now being built on distraction, from our was an aspiring thespian, offer: my own perspective,” she said. own lives, our inner voice, and from the mentored by Stan Ratoff Elna told graduates that wonderful things voices and struggles of so many people (ASL 1982–present) and lay ahead for all of them. “You have so who aren’t nearly as lucky as you are,” ABuck Herron (ASL 1998–present), trying much to look forward to,” she promised. she explained. “They need you to be to find her place in the world (and “So many more chances to figure out brave and to stand up for them.” make it through AP US History). and prove yourselves.” Elna repeated the counsel that her Fifteen years later, author, comedian Elna recounted how she was ready to father always told her: “When much is and alumna Elna Baker took to the prove herself, post-college, and achieve given, much is expected.” Emphasizing 2015 podium at Central Hall Westminster her dream of becoming a comedian but that the expectations of parents and to impart wisdom and laughter to the had no idea where to begin. “It wasn’t teachers are soaring, Elna assured, “It Class of 2015. like high school,” she said. “There was just means you’re worth believing in, no structure, no classes I could take or Class of 2015.” ■ “I am your future,” she assignments to fill out. Just this empty declared to the students space of possibility.” A lucky encounter with comedian N Friday, 12 June, the Head of School Coreen R. Hester Heynderickx and Valedictorian Jon Stewart in a Manhattan park, commencement exercises issued a generous greeting and Veronica Lim. bedecked in caps and however, motivated Elna to discover and 1 Elna Baker presenting the commencement for the Class of 2015 took congratulated the Class of 2015 warmly. The ceremony was punctuated by gowns. “You will never address at the graduation exercises for initiate her first steps towards a place at Central Hall She went on to introduce the Lord Mayor accomplished musical selections by the the Class of 2015 make any money, but you performing arts career. “I took what OWestminster. This year, 122 graduates of Westminster, who addressed the High School Concert Choir, ASL Senior 2 Class of 2000 tube station photo: I learned at ASL about structure and gathered to receive their diplomas, gathering on behalf of the city. Choir and Senior String Ensemble, with a will have a Wikipedia page.” Elna, front center, with a star on her assignments and, with no one telling signifying the successful completion David Novak P ’18 ’20, attending his duet on viola and piano by graduating sweater. “I knew then I’d be a star!” she me to, I made up my own.” joked in her speech. of their ASL education and high first commencement ceremony as board seniors Elijah Spies and Emily Richter. Elna moved to London from Washington school careers. This is the beginning chair, welcomed the Class, and asked Following the formal part of the State in 1995 and spent four years at of their journey beyond One Waverley for ASL alumni present to stand and be ceremony, the presentation of high school ASL (with a stint back in the US as a Place, and it’s a privilege to witness recognized; the assembly applauded diplomas, Dr. Phillips declared officially freshman and sophomore). After this important step for our newest our former students enthusiastically. the students graduates of the American graduating in 2000, she studied at NYU’s alumni. Among them were 16 lifers— Mr. Novak offered his congratulations School in London’s Class of 2015. Tisch School of the Arts, where she students who have attended ASL on behalf of the ASL Board of Trustees. Then it was hats in the air in fine ASL honed her craft as a writer and a from Grade 1 or earlier: Zoe Alberts, Alumna Elna Baker ’00 presented tradition, before a reception for family and performer. Elna’s memoir, The New York Aditi Bhalla, Jasmina Coric, Tarush an amusing and very personal commence- friends to round off this most auspicious Regional Mormon Singles Halloween Gupta, Emma Hatheway, Karan ment address. Read about Elna’s event in the school calendar. Dance, was published in 2009 to rave Khaitan, Katherine Lake, Danyal presentation to the graduates, opposite. Congratulations, Class of 2015! reviews. A contributor to This American Mahmood, Louisa Phillips, Vikram High School Principal Jack Phillips Life and BBC Radio 4, Elna regularly Prasad, Jack Roth, Ian Scoville, Lizzie P ’27 (ASL 2013–present) offered performs with The Moth, at the Upright Shaffran, Erik Skattum, Elijah Spies sound advice to the graduating class, Citizens Brigade and at numerous other and Christopher Vann. before introducing Salutatorian Douglas comedy clubs in New York City, and is now at work on her second book. 2

12 The American School in London Accents Fall ’15 13 Title Life after ASL for the Class of 2015 Feature

Mohammad Adnan Princeton University Tamara Masri Georgetown University Tara Advaney Georgetown University James McClure Wake Forest University Amnah Ahmad Barnard College Phoebe Merrick University of Virginia Zoe Alberts University of Exeter Celia Mitchell Pomona College Lynn Albright Smith College Ziyad Mourad Syracuse University Check out the ASL website to Ahmed Alramli The New School Lang — Eliza Moyle American University view full coverage of the commencement Eugene Lang College John Murphy University of Oxford exercises for the Class of 2015, Kjersti Anderson Cornell University Noemie Nathan Skidmore College www.asl.org/commencement. Alec Ashley Tufts University Maria Nebreda New York University Zachary Ashley Emory University Sean Norris California Institute of the Arts Krsana Asnani Elon University Temiloluwa Otedola University of Bristol Andrew Bake Santa Clara University Paula Paddack Cornell University Julia Barlow New York University Houston Parke Syracuse University Zoe Barnes Tufts University Je’Anna Parnell The University of Alabama Max Barnett Tufts University Louisa Phillips University of Denver Katherine Bell Northeastern University Margareta Poler Amherst College Leila Ben Halim Princeton University Simone Prasad Princeton University Aditi Bhalla Syracuse University Vikram Prasad University of Chicago Monica Brendsel University of Vivek Prasad University of Minnesota, Southern California Twin Cities Rebecca Brunsberg Columbia University Isabelle Preddy University of Chicago Tristan Burke University of Andre Purits University of California, Berkeley Southern California James Callaway Georgetown University Anton Purrmann-Charles Goldsmiths College, Alexandra Campili University of Chicago University of London Alessandro Cavarretta Politecnico di Torino Julianne Pyron Rhodes College Adele Cohen University of Milo Rechler University of Southern California Southern California Jasmina Coric University of Warwick Jeffrey Renner Baylor University Carly Craig University of Edinburgh Mir Riaz Trinity College Kendel Craig Colorado State University Emily Richter Lawrence University Claire Daly George Mason University William Roberts Auburn University Isabel Daly Barnard College Lillian Roos University of Alexandra Dell’Anno The George Washington Southern California University Lauren Rossiter University of British Columbia Connor Dell’Anno Northeastern University Jack Roth Yale University Alexandra DeOrio Barnard College Gabriel Ruimy University of Pennsylvania Marisa Etre Boston College Peter Ryan Wesleyan University Michaela Etre Boston College Christopher Saltzgaber University of Miami Michael Fares Tufts University Olivia Sanabria University of Jamie Fass Barnard College Wisconsin, Madison Anton Foy Babson College Caroline Schneider The University of Kevin Fribley George Mason University North Carolina at Chapel Hill Alisha Gandhi Northwestern University Ian Scoville Georgetown University Constantinos Gazidis Duke University Elizabeth Shaffran Lehigh University Felicia Grable Bryn Mawr College Nicole Shishkhanova Northeastern University Tarush Gupta Johns Hopkins University Bjorn Sigurdsson Pomona College Georgina Hanigan James Madison University Erik Skattum Bates College Emma Hatheway Middlebury College Brooke Smith The New School Lang — Savannah Henry Louisiana State University Eugene Lang College Douglas Heynderickx Imperial College London Elijah Spies Eastman School of Alexander Hogenhuis Middlebury College Music of the U of Rochester Nikolas Huth Columbia University Megan Stracener Texas Christian University Paola Kalb Elon University Cameron Swanson Colgate University Karan Khaitan Babson College Gabriela Tanaka Skidmore College Emma Kollek University of Pennsylvania Christopher Vann Cornell University Caroline Kopfler Boston College John Victor University of Wisconsin — Angelina Kukielski New York University School of Music Katja Kukielski University of Miami Alexander von Daehne The New School Lang — Katherine Lake Wake Forest University Eugene Lang College Brendan LaScala Wake Forest University Amin Wafa New York University Veronica Lim Columbia University Nicholas Wilson University of Michigan James Lituchy Kenyon College Dariush Yazdanpanah Trinity College Katherine Liu University of Virginia Risako Yoshioka King's College London Stefano Longo University College London Alexandra Zirinis Davidson College Emily Lovett University of Chicago Samuel Zorek Rice University Danyal Mahmood University of St. Andrews Sophia Zorek Rice University Zainab Mahmud McGill University Adam Zschach Tulane University Arthur Malin New York University Nicolas Maman Tufts University

14 The American School in London Accents Fall ’15 15 News News 1

Harold T. Cruikshank Award PCA Auction Making a difference Thank you On Friday, 11 September, the Board of This past March, the PCA Our New Frontiers capital campaign Trustees recognized the dedication of Dream Big, ASL! Auction—a two-day has gone from strength to strength. Hattie Hartman P ’15 to ASL community extravaganza—arrived at ASL. The So far, we have raised more than service by presenting her with the Farmer Family Gymnasium was a £20M toward the goals of growing for showing your Harold T. Cruikshank Award at the sight to behold, beautifully bedecked endowment for student financial annual trustees’ reception for faculty with bunting, and hundreds of yellow assistance, and providing top-flight and staff at the Underglobe, beneath and blue balloons to celebrate facilities that support an outstand- Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. The award this special occasion in the ASL ing educational program. We look support for ASL! is given for extraordinary service and calendar. Parents, students, faculty, forward to moving into the new contribution to the School. Board Vice staff, grandparents, alumni, parents Community Arts Building, on the Chair Julie Skattum P ’12 ’15 ’17 of alumni and friends came together corner of Waverley Place and Grove presented the award to Hattie on to enjoy a community brunch, a End Road, in January 2016. Next behalf of the Board. silent auction, live entertainment fall, all our students will have use Julie said, “Hattie’s dedication, and a kids’ party, and to lend their of the Aquatic and Fitness Center, vision and low-key approach created a support to our biennial auction. which features a 25-meter, six-lane wonderful dynamic and strengthened This all-school event is the PCA’s swimming pool and flexible gym Hurray for the Annual Fund co-chairs, Annette and our community partnerships. Her many primary fundraiser to support its space, and our middle and high 117 Annual Fund! Shaun Dreyer P ’16, for their time, years of leadership established a firm programs and projects for a two-year school students will be in the new hard work and dedication to the School. foundation for service learning at period. The Dream Big, ASL! Auction and renovated science labs. Thank Your commitment to ASL saw our To lead our 2015–16 efforts, we are ASL. Hattie’s inclusive attitude and raised funds to support the you to everyone who has contributed alumni visits Annual Fund goal surpassed. Our parent delighted to have parents Stacey and effortless diplomacy are her legacy to landscaping and development of to this transformational moment for participation had a strong showing of Ali Towfighi P ’18 ’20 ’23 co-chair our the community.” the outdoor area at ASL to form our school. Don’t despair if you 65 percent, we had an increase of Annual Fund! We hope we can count Hattie’s involvement has been integral Waverley Park, bringing much- haven’t had a chance to join in— 34 percent in alumni donors and our on your participation and continued to the success of ASL community needed space for our students for there’s still time to participate and Class current faculty and staff reached support as we embark on this year’s service days for the past three years. PE and outdoor recreation. The make a difference! 84 percent participation—the highest Annual Fund endeavors. Her calm demeanor and professional auction was expertly led by intrepid of 2014, in the school’s history! Gifts from alumni, parents of alumni, attitude have motivated many to join in duo Erin Crawford P ’20 ’23 and As you know, the Annual Fund is parents, grandparents, faculty, staff and to help others. Hattie demonstrates a Heidi Black P ’20 ’23, ably our top fundraising priority as it helps to friends, ensure that we can continue to quiet, unassuming commitment to doing assisted by a trusty band of willing youngest cover an annual shortfall of 5 percent offer the very best to our students. the right thing. She is described by volunteers—truly, a team effort! in our operating budget. In 2014–15, You are welcome to make your gift in colleagues as being generous with praise The auction was topped off with Visit asl.org/giving donor we raised £1,732,211 to bridge the USD ($) or in GBP (£). Please use the and a hardworking diplomat who opens an evening gala event at London’s gap between tuition and what it costs envelope above to send in your gift or her arms to all volunteers. Guildhall, with its traditional live to be a part of ASL’s to bring an outstanding American visit the ASL website and make your auction. Erin and Heidi said, “What biggest campaign in education with a global perspective to online gift today, www.asl.org/giving. incredible community spirit. Thank Class every ASL student. you for dreaming big for ASL! You its 65-year history. Sincere thanks to everyone who have made a lasting impact on our We couldn’t do it contributed to making the 2014–15 school, and we are so thankful.” of 1961, Annual Fund a success! without you! A hearty thank you to our alumni oldest donor class agents, our parent class captains, 1 Board Vice Chair our canvassers and divisional chairs, Julie Skattum with and our wonderful parent 2014–15 Hattie Hartman

16 The American School in London Accents Fall ’15 17 News

UNE 2015 saw the departure of no less than 11 of our “Mostly, I’ll miss the student longest-serving faculty and staff. The School honored our Jleavers in a celebratory luncheon trips, as well as the innate on Thursday, 11 June, in the Farmer Family Gymnasium, where tears and laughter played a huge part in the cheerfulness and fun of being farewells to much-loved colleagues.

At the start of her ASL career, like so with middle school kids.” many others, Joan Dyer-Westacott P ’06 ’10 (ASL 1987–2015) joined the School for “just one year”—in her case, to cover a leave of absence for Chris she can’t secure a job with her local fun and the laughter—only now we Siegfried (ASL 1961–98). After taking chocolatier—Joan plans to write her must say Mrs. Watson… We are thrilled Marcia Servente’s (ASL 1984–2001) tell-all potboiler and to learn to tap dance. to report that Linda married long-term role for a further two years, Joan took partner and former ASL woodwork teacher up a permanent position in the Mellon Hired straight out of college in 1977, Tim Watson (ASL 1973–2007) this Library in 1991, serving as library Linda Benson (ASL 1986–2015) summer. She apologizes to all the fifth department head until 1999. Joan’s joined ASL as an art intern for one year, graders over the years who volunteered abiding memories of the School are working with Ray Ruehl (ASL 1978–93), to serve as bridesmaids! the author visits. In particular, she Jan Mikrut (ASL 1974–98) and remembers, “Lynne Reid Banks was a Suzanne Guest (ASL 1971–91). After Margaret Turton (ASL 1991–2015) Center: Lee Phifer tough customer, who brought along the a stint working in British primary schools, joined ASL as a middle school language Clockwise from top: cupboard from her famous book and was an experienced Linda returned to the teacher from neighboring school Joan Dyer-Westacott; brilliant with the students; Richard Peck, School initially to teach art and ceramics Northbridge House in Camden Town to Linda Benson; who was great and worked with Grade 6 with Alan Heath (ASL 1973–2007) and fill a leave of absence. At the time, Margaret Turton with students on many occasions; and the Sally Marlow P ’76 ’79 (ASL 1964–95). the Middle School was looking to expand Alan Heath (ASL 1973–2007); late, unforgettable Paula Danziger, with She moved to Grade 5, where she the language program and Margaret Ken McKinley; whom it was fun to hang out both at remained until her departure. Linda has found herself with a full-time position Sita Littlewood; school and out and about!” The thing happy recollections of team teaching from 1993. She remembers fondly former Steve Cary; Joan will miss most after leaving One with Sunny Neutze (ASL 1984–2011) middle school principal Tony Marlow’s Graham Bracey; Marsha Miller; Waverley is the incomparable access for many years. Abiding memories for P ’76 ’79 (ASL 1964–96) ‘starlight Mary Jordan; to books. After moving to Devon this Ms. Benson always include the people, room’ Friday afternoons when the middle Jean Hughes summer with husband Hugh—and if the Grade 5 teams over the years, the school faculty would relax together in

18 The American School in London Accents Fall ’15 19 compressed air. Of late, Graham has News supervised the maintenance team— School where I had been teaching was “I love giving books to kids and trouble shooting technical issues and due to close, and Mother knew at once carrying out project work. He will miss that this was a golden opportunity his colleagues greatly, although whether for me! Having availed herself of the sharing their excitement. I have or not they’ll miss his famous practical salient facts, she booked me on the jokes remains to be seen! Graham plans first plane from Devon to Heathrow, to spend time following his passion for where my father awaited with my the best job in the world!” vintage motor racing. Prior to his ASL interview gear. After what seemed a years, he served as a fire marshal at very short conversation at ASL, I was Brands Hatch motor-racing circuit, where awarded the job—and I have not the art room for an hour with wine and An invitation to cover faculty absences he once helped the late, great Brazilian looked back since! snacks. She says of leaving ASL, “Mostly, in the performing arts drew Steve Cary driver Ayrton Senna push his car off the Your alumni fan club is always growing. I’ll miss the student trips, as well as the (ASL 1991–2015) to the School in 1991. track. Graham has three grandchildren What is the best compliment you’ve innate cheerfulness and fun of being with A year later, the lure of Grade 3 was too who will keep him busy in the years received from a former student? middle school kids.” The future holds a much to resist and Steve began an ahead, and there will be time spent in I was invited to meet a would-be great deal of gardening for Margaret as eight-year stint with lower school students. the workshop at the bottom of his garden fiancée to give my approval. Needless well as refurbishing her home. She Ronna Frank’s (ASL 1979–2000) and more travel in the UK and beyond. 30 years of Trustee news to say, she was adorable! promises to continue her Welsh language departure left an opening to teach LS Since our last issue of Accents, studies and to do a lot of walking. music and Steve was the man for the job. Our K–Grade 6 educational psychologist, Ms. Hamadache! Favorite ASL tradition? there has been a number of Guiding our younger students in their Marsha Miller (ASL 2004–2015), Prom, which I organized for many years changes to the ASL Board of The American International School musical studies kept Steve busy until leaves the School to return to her home At the beginning of each school year, Trustees. Lori E. Fields P ’08 ’10 Outside of teaching French and of Zurich’s loss was ASL’s gain when 2006 when he switched paths to become in Pennsylvania. She says, “I’m grateful we recognize our long-serving faculty ’14, pictured, stepped down after Spanish, what are your hidden talents? Ken McKinley (ASL 1991–2015) came lower school assistant librarian, a role that for the opportunities I’ve had during my and staff when they reach milestone seven years as board chair, and Quiz shows, amazing dancing (as to 2–8 Loudoun Road (ASL’s address completes his ASL career. “I love my job,” time at ASL; I’m so appreciative of the anniversaries. This year, high school 12 as an ASL trustee. We thank anyone at prom will confirm!), helping back in the day) to teach high school he asserts. “I love giving books to kids people—the students, the families, the world languages and cultures teacher Lori for her many years of hard out my family, and talking more that history. Ken has continued to teach and sharing their excitement. I have the faculty and the administration. It’s been Victoria Hamadache (ASL 1985– work and unstinting commitment I can breathe! My jokes are pretty generations of high school students for best job in the world!” Steve admits that a wonderful experience, but I miss my present) celebrated 30 years at ASL! to the School. awesome, too. the past 24 years, and is a three-time he’ll miss the wonderful students and family.” Marsha plans to continue to travel We asked her to reflect on her time Five other trustees retired recipient of the James McGovern Award parents, as well as his beloved col- extensively, to spend time with her four at the School by sharing stories and What’s the most memorable from the board in the past year: for outstanding teaching. His earliest leagues. He says, “The caliber of fellow grandchildren (with another on the way!), favorite memories from her long history Alternatives trip you’ve chaperoned? Alex Knaster P ’09 ’17, memory is of sharing space in Middle faculty and staff and the interactions to read a lot of books, and to plan what at ASL. Here’s a taster, but read the Malta with the late John Otterpohl Mary Marsh P ’08 ’09 ’11 ’14 ’16, Blue with languages teacher Victoria I’ve enjoyed over the years have made comes next. entire interview in the news section (ASL 1974–2000), a legend! Tori Robertson P ’08 ’10 ’12 ’14, Hamadache (ASL 1985–present), me a better person.” Moving on from of asl.org. Joanna Shields P ’17, and Board What’s the strangest thing that’s ceramics teacher Spencer Namyst One Waverley, Steve hopes to read lots A chance meeting with former lower Vice Chair Michael Spies P ’12 Describe your ASL hiring story. How did happened during one of your classes? (ASL 1974–2001) and English teacher of books, develop his bookbinding skills, school principal Julie Ryan (ASL ’15. We are grateful to all of these you come to work here? It was at least 20 years ago. Without Linda Hurcombe P ’96 (ASL 1968–92). travel to India, do more canal boating, 1994–2013) brought Mary Jordan GP individuals for their dedicated Many, many years ago, my mother, me noticing, a very tall young man Ken says, “I’ve always enjoyed working in visit family and friends, and enjoy London. ’14 (ASL 2000–04; 2009–15) to the service to ASL. Patricia, was working at the American slithered out of the classroom a close and cohesive department in the School to teach art to our youngest David Novak P ’18 ’20 has been Embassy. During a visit to the without permission. He returned within High School. I will miss the students and Lee Phifer (ASL 1992–2015) joined students. Mary went on to serve as appointed as chair of the board, bathroom, she overheard a conversa- eight minutes, having purchased a teaching. This year’s class has been one ASL to teach Grades 2–4, computer and department head from 2009 to 2014. while Julie Skattum P ’12 ’15 ’17 tion about a language teacher at ASL McDonald’s meal for every person in of the best, so it’s great to go out on a science in the Lower School. He took a Mary says, “I grew as an art teacher takes over the role of vice chair. who wasn’t planning on returning to the class, me included. Some sort of high.” Ken plans to be more creative in sabbatical in 2004–05 to study outdoor because of how ASL supports the arts. In the past months, we have school after a maternity leave. The senior prank!! his garden and to explore everything education programs before returning to I’m going to miss the students and their welcomed five new members to London has to offer. One Waverley Place to pilot and lead the incredible creative spirit, as well as the the Board: Cynthia Bake P ’15 lower school outdoor/environmental ASL community and all that London has ’17 ’20 ’25, Rebecca Manuel graduates are both ASL parents and Sita Littlewood P ’16 ’25 (ASL education program. Since that time, Lee to offer.” Having built a studio at her P ’17 ’21, Liad Meidar P ’23 ’26, employees! 1991–2015) was hired in 1991 as a has been a popular fixture at the school’s home in northern Arizona, Mary is keen Erin Roth P ’15 ’16 ’21, and “I wanted to organize this breakfast French and Spanish teacher in ASL’s playing fields in Canons Park, overseeing to spend time drawing, painting and Chris Whitman P ’19 ’20 ’22. because I feel that parents, faculty and Middle School. Over the years, she has the Honeypot Lane Garden and bringing sewing. She also plans to spend time Read more about the ASL Board staff, who are also ASL alumni, have a served as team leader, and worked the delights of nature to a generation of with her grandchildren and visit friends. of Trustees on asl.org > About. special connection to the School,” said alongside many middle school principals, our youngest students. Lee describes the Marika Ison ’07, interim director of including Tony Marlow and Ronni project as “an attempt to keep students’ Jean Hughes P ’06 ’08 ’12 (ASL alumni relations. “We want to ensure McCaffrey (ASL 1995–2006). Her curiosity about nature alive and to allow 2004–12; 2013–15) wore many hats at that we recognize this special connection abiding memories of ASL are of her them to continue to develop their innate ASL, from administrative assistant in the and bring this group together.” students and being part of a wonderful affinities for nature and all it has to Lower and Middle schools, to associate Keep in Head of School Coreen R. Hester team. Sita says, “It was a creative teach.” Lee will miss the time he spends dean of admissions. And Jean saw all Alumni return to ASL! led the event and took a few moments experience to development curriculum with our lower school classes, introducing three of her sons, Dave ’06, Dan ’08 and On Thursday, 17 September, a special to present information on ASL by the touch! together as a team, rather than as a the children to the dirt and the outdoors Pete ’12 graduate from ASL, with Pete group of alumni gathered in the numbers. She reminded the group that group of individuals.” Sita is looking he enjoyed while growing up. receiving the Endurance Award for Connect with friends, classmates Boardroom for a celebration breakfast. we have an incredible 14,901 alumni in forward to taking advantage of the many attending ASL from first to last. A recent and the ASL community online: Some 22 of our former students have 79 countries around the world. Memories opportunities London has to offer— Graham Bracey (ASL 1992–2015) high point (literally!) for Jean was scaling Facebook: facebook.com/ returned to One Waverley Place as were shared as the gathering enjoyed maybe exploring one of her early passions was brought in to service the mechanical Kilimanjaro with British Military Fitness in americanschoolinlondon parents at ASL, many years after coffee and breakfast. of dance. But first, a month in Jamaica plant that supported the utilities that kept 2014. Jean leaves ASL to explore other Twitter: twitter.com/aslnews attending the School themselves. In Welcome back, ASL alums. It’s great en famille was high on her list of priorities the School’s infrastructure functioning avenues in London, conquer more peaks, LinkedIn: http://tinyurl.com/ addition, 12 ASL alumni are employed to have you on board! for the summer! successfully. In those days, there was no and spend time with her many friends and linkedinasl at the School. And three of our former air conditioning and the system ran on family in the US. ■

20 The American School in London Accents Fall ’15 21 CROCODILE Feature ROCK IN ASL'S

GYM! WITH INCREDIBLE PHOTOGRAPHS BY PAUL SVENSSON ’75!

BY ALICE IACUESSA (ASL 1979–2000) & CATHY ADAMS (ASL 1974–2005)

22 The American School in London Accents Fall ’15 23 1 L–R: Yoav Shapiro ’75, Eric van Uchelen ’76, Feature NE of the most exciting Paul Svensson ’75, Mark Gregg ’76, and somewhat legendary “About 90 minutes before the Elton's roadie, unknown, Bruce Coffman ’74, tales in ASL’s distinguished Jay Burnett ’74 history is that internation- Oally renowned singer/songwriter performance, I was told that Sir Elton John performed (twice!) in ASL’s very own gym in 1973. Alice the piano was out of tune! and Cathy discover the true story—to some extent—first hand from those who were there and made it happen. We needed a tuner and quick. Why Elton? Bear Van Wyck (ASL 1972–85), art teacher and Yearbook One of St. John’s Wood’s finest faculty advisor, is keen to share how the man with the big glasses came to play in St. John’s Wood. “We wanted to sent a police car to Steinway have some color pages in the Yearbook and this required funding. We weren’t and brought back the tuner. interested in endless bake sales; we thought one big event was a better idea. A concert in the gym was what we had As he worked his magic on the in mind. The next decision to be made was who. In the Melody Maker, I saw that concert grand, I asked the tuner Elton had a number one album in the US, but surprisingly, wasn’t in the charts in the UK. I called his agent, Dick James, if we were going to be okay. and set up an appointment. I went to his office in Mayfair and spoke to Dick He commented dryly, ‘It’s good and Elton on speakerphone and told them our idea. We came up with a date: 24 March (the day before Elton’s enough for rock and roll!’” birthday), and I signed the contract, agreeing to pay £1,000 for Elton and Since the gym was in constant use rented concert grand piano from Steinway £250 for the support act.” for PE classes, the stage had to be built had to be carried down the bleachers and Bear recalls booking the gym in the the day before the concert. Predictably, lifted onto the stage, which we did with a usual way; he went to the high school woodshop teacher Tim Watson team of students hired for the occasion.” office collected the forms, and got (ASL 1973–2007) was in charge of A Herculean task if there ever was one! them signed—no big deal. He continues, construction: “I persuaded a scaffolding Bruce Coffman ’74, who played a “Our first problem was the coal miners’ company, run by two guys I went to school role in the organization, enlisted the help strike, which provoked regular blackouts with, to build a platform across the full of a host of students to assist at the throughout London. We needed to find a width of the gym, 20 feet wide and about event. Robert Eringer ’73 and Paul guaranteed electricity supply. Someone 5 feet 6 inches high. Elton was adamant Svensson ’75 were asked to greet Elton came up with the idea for a generator, that there should be no means of access and his girlfriend when they arrived— in but this was a rare commodity. We finally from the front, so he wouldn’t be mobbed the star’s Rolls Royce according to Paul; sourced one from a circus in Scotland!” by the audience. This meant that the but it was a black limo if you ask Robert! Paul recollects a polite and interested Elton who asked lots of questions about 1 the School. Robert remembers Bear set up the theater as a kind of VIP lounge for Elton, his band and entourage. The senior had been assigned to interview Elton for the school newspaper, Spungo. The subsequent article is available to view on Robert’s blog, Eringer: The Columns. As it was Elton’s birthday, Bear had organized a surprise birthday party and Robert was charged with supplying a half-dozen cheesecakes from his parents’ cake business. Robert recalls that Elton entered the theater, looked around with a smile on his face, and commented, “Well, this is nice!” Robert explains, “He was right! Elton sat down—front row, center—facing the stage. He seemed relaxed and happy. Shyly, I asked him if he minded being

24 The American School in London Accents Fall ’15 25 27 27 Fall ’15 Fall Fall ’15 Fall Accents Accents The American School in London The American School in London

TitleFeature 2626 interviewed for the school paper. He “I thought the bleachers were going to readily and gracefully agreed. Others collapse and walls were about to crack gathered around as I asked questions. during this song!” I took notes on white paper plates! I used Student journalist Robert Eringer, about five of them for the entire interview. now wearing his crowd-control hat, was in Others chipped in with questions of the frontline. He says, “I was among the their own, and Elton seemed to enjoy line of people who linked arms to prevent himself enormously.” teeny-boppers from storming the stage. Before the concert began, there was It was pure pandemonium! But in a a last-minute panic about tuning the good way.” piano. Not surprisingly, Bear and Tim Laura Lewis ’77, whose journal have conflicting memories, but as Elton helped identify the timings of Elton’s played at ASL twice, both accounts may visits enjoyed both concerts and shared hold some truth! Bear recalls, “About 90 an image of her ticket stub. Wendy (Rea) minutes before the performance, I was Lawless ’76 posted a photo of her told that the piano was out of tune! We concert ticket on Facebook in May 2013, needed a tuner and quick. One of St. which spawned a plethora of responses John’s Wood’s finest sent a police car to from those who were there, and those Steinway and brought back the tuner. who wished they had been! Cindy Cole As he worked his magic on the concert Rouse ’78 said it was her first concert. grand, I asked the tuner if we were going Julie Orse Odermatt ’78 was in the to be okay. He commented dryly, ‘It’s good front row and managed to shake Elton’s enough for rock and roll!’” hand: “Didn’t wash it for three weeks, Tim’s version involves Elton’s insistence age 13!” Coe Rost ’75, who was on the point in Elton John’s career. It brought weeks after Elton’s final ASL concert, that any piano he played during a concert stage crew lowering amps and equipment him a number one album in the US and Dick James called and ask if we would had to be tuned no more than 45 minutes via ropes from the top of the bleachers, in the UK, turning the former Reginald could accommodate Pink Floyd before the before the performance. Tim says, “The enjoyed the concert up close. Kevin Dwight from Pinner, NW London, into an start of their American tour. They wanted tuner we had booked was late because he Martin ’80 was there; he complains that international superstar. But Elton honored to perform Dark Side of the Moon!” ■ got confused coming out of the tube, people never believe that Elton John his commitment to the School and which is hardly surprising as he was blind played at his high school! returned to Loudoun Road in December and had a guide dog that was not used to According to former dean of students 1973 for his second and final appearance crowds. When he eventually arrived, about Bruce Balas P ’82 ’84 ’87 (ASL at ASL. 10 minutes before the show was due to 1971–95), “The speakers were piled Mary-Louise Barker (ASL 1977– start, we hoisted him and his dog onto up in an enormous array at the sides of 2003) and Bear have been friends the stage, got the piano tuned, and lifted the stage. As a result, the music was so since 1964. On a visit to London to see him off. By that time, Elton’s manager loud I could feel the beat of it pounding Bear, Mary-Louise and her brother, Paul, was having a tantrum, insisting Elton against my chest. Also, so many people attended the second Elton John concert wouldn’t play the piano because it had were trying to get into the concert; the on 15 December 1973. Mary-Louise says, thousands of hand prints all over it!” narrow streets around the School were “Wow! What a show. Kiki Dee was the Tim and a couple of students retrieved jammed with cars. The neighbors coming opening act, but the overwhelming star polishing cloths and methylated spirits home from work couldn’t get to their of the show was Elton.” Paul adds, “Elton from the woodshop, and did a fantastic driveways and were not happy with us.” played the whole of his new album with Bear van Asch van Wyck provided French polish in no time at all. Tim adds, Mary Durr, Roger Corrigan’s sister, its fantastic opening number, Funeral for a great deal of the content for this “From that point on, whenever I taught was thrilled to be able to attend. She a Friend, which builds to a crescendo. The article—for which we are very a technique called ‘spiriting off,’ I’d tell recalls, “Crocodile Rock was big at the audience went wild. To be on the edge grateful. Bear lives in Washington, the kids that story!” time. When he sang it, the crowd went of the stage was a unique experience. CT, with his wife of 49 years, Sue. According to Tim, “The gym was crazy and someone threw a stuffed Why couldn’t I have gone to a school After leaving ASL in 1985, Bear and very crowded. High School Principal crocodile onto the stage. He put on an like this?!” Sue started Black Swan Antiques. Dick Ayling (ASL 1972–74), who was awesome performance. The opening act, Bear reflects, “The music at the Their two children, Jan and Jennifer, technically in charge that evening, was a Longdancer, played If It Was So Simple. second concert was great, but we were live close by with their families. nervous wreck. Maintenance manager I bought their album while I was in lucky there wasn’t a major disaster!” Victor Everett (ASL 1965–83) had London and still have it—along with all ASL’s second head of school, Jack steam coming out of his ears and our of Elton’s records, of course. I was Harrison (ASL 1971–86), shares a Our wholehearted thanks to electrician couldn’t get the ventilation stunned that ASL had Elton John playing behind-the-scenes drawback to Elton’s Paul Svensson ’75 for providing to work!” in its gym to raise money for Yearbook. second visit. “As with the first concert, photographs we didn’t know existed But the concert did go on. Rock I was used to car washes and bake we created tickets in-house, but someone and agreeing for us to use them in band Longdancer opened with a short sales for that sort of fundraising!” beyond our community produced and this article. set and then Elton came on to perform. All in all, Bear felt it was a very sold a huge amount of counterfeit tickets. Appropriately, his first song was Teacher, successful night. “Elton was so pleased Too many people were allowed in for the Since leaving ASL, Paul moved Teacher. Later, the audience sang Happy with his experience that Dick James concert, and there was almost a riot back to Stockholm, Sweden, Birthday. Roger Corrigan (ASL 1971– called to say that Elton would like to play outside, which required the police.” where lives with his wife, Marita. 2010) remembers Bear giving Elton a big again. He liked the acoustics of ASL’s In light of the ticket issue, Bear recalls Paul is purchasing director for a Teddy bear, which the singer seated next gym and enjoyed performing for a mostly a revision to school policy on putting on telecommunication company and to him at the piano. Dave Sutherland American audience. Understandably, similar events going forward. He says, today mainly take pictures of his (ASL 1970–98) and Chris Siegfried I agreed to a second concert.” “The School realized concerts needed family and especially his four (ASL 1961–98) have vivid memories of The release of Goodbye Yellow Brick to be scaled down in future.” He adds grandchildren. Elton singing Crocodile Rock. Dave says, Road on 5 October 1973 was a pivotal ruefully, “This was a shame…three

The American School in London Accents Fall ’15 29 Feature

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ONG before current Melbourne, Kiki is now at home in chasing her passion teaching Pre-K and high schoolers mastered Stockholm, where she stays busy drama at Berkeley Preparatory School choreography for this fall’s touring with several theater groups in in Tampa, Florida. “Seeing three-year-old production of High School addition to teaching and event planning. kids put on their first play, or watching LMusical, ASL students and the stage “My theater training under Buck made middle schoolers make major break- have belonged together like Guys and me the person I am today in so many throughs towards becoming more Dolls (2004), Romeo and Juliet (1992) ways,” she gushed recently. confident on stage has given me a and Jason and the Golden Fleece different sense of purpose,” she (1985). With London as a backdrop, discloses. Like many of her ASL peers, the school’s campus has been a Lauren caught the acting bug from veritable venue for chamber Buck Herron and worked in theater, film, orchestras, touring concert choirs, TV and radio after studying theater and advanced dance troupes and original early childhood education at NYU. Her dramas. No wonder our arts program acting pursuits developed alongside her has yielded so many creative, teaching experience, from overseeing a talented performers. Here’s a look lower school classroom at Avenues in at some alumni who, years after New York to coaching ballet in LA to 3 joining our ranks, continue to children with Down’s syndrome. “I’m captivate audiences everywhere. so engrossed in teaching and find that it’s been more rewarding than I could Kathleen Turner ’72, actress Patrick (Raymond) Himmler ’86, have imagined,” explains Lauren. “I’m Before the Golden Globe Award-winning executive creative director motivated to make a difference in the star turned heads on screen in Based in LA, a typical work day for Patrick lives of my students.” Romancing the Stone and earned a at Brand New Media, a global content Tony nomination for her portrayal of company specializing in video content and Martha in Broadway’s Who’s Afraid of responsive advertising, involves managing Virginia Woolf, Mary Kathleen Turner was a team of producers and production a typical teen at ASL, “terrorizing the professionals, assessing on-camera school” with her friends, trying her hand talent and directing photography during BY LIBBY JONES, at writing plays, and performing in high shoots. He’s also acted in TV shows such DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS school productions of The Boyfriend and as Seinfeld and Blossom. But once upon Lovers in the early ’70s. “You are so a time, Patrick was a wide-eyed pupil of fortunate to live in this city,” she told Jan Mikrut (ASL 1974–98), taking her students during a return visit to campus Play Production course and dreaming big. in 2006. “She was my first mentor,” he explains. “She allowed me to realize the very best Kiki Snodgrass ’02, actress version of myself.” Kiki often jokes that she is the first graduate of the ‘Buck Herron School of Lauren Buglioli ’05, drama teacher Drama’ because her four years of high Her film credits include Unstoppable school coincided with the first four years with Wesley Snipes, and Stephen Fry’s 4 of Buck Herron (ASL 1998–present) Bright Young Things. She recently teaching at ASL, and she took every class performed in a short film, A Burial Hymn, he taught. From the Annenberg Theater with fellow alumna Lauren Fales ’03. to stages in New York, Amsterdam and For now, however, Lauren Buglioli is

30 The American School in London Accents Fall ’15 31 Feature Square billboard to promote the show. Elaine comments. She credits former Olivia Ancona ’07, dancer Recollecting his high school days, Adam ASL English teachers Amanda Christy “My path has been filled with still laughs about the mischief and (ASL 2001–04) and Catherine Harada unexpected experiences, people and horror-movie screenings he instigated P ’92 ’94 (ASL 1993–2005) for inspiring cultures, unfolding in ways I could not with Class of ’99 pals Matt Krukowski, her career in storytelling. She adds, have anticipated,” marvels Olivia. Raised Joey Latkiewicz and Conor Gillespie. “Whether it was from having my heart in Portland, Oregon, she moved to London But perhaps the best legacy of his ASL broken watching Leon or writing creative and ASL for part of middle school—a experience was the life lessons he essays about made-up Greek gods, they chapter that inevitably shaped her desire 1 learned from math teacher Suzanne planted the seed that these stories can to dance professionally. While in the UK, Brooks (ASL 1972–99). “As an actor, encourage reflection and change.” Olivia did a stint with the London 6 my tools are my body and my voice,” he Children’s Ballet, and from that moment expounds. “What Ms. Brooks instilled in Stewart Copeland ’71, drummer and on was bound for a life on stage. “If you her students was the necessity to take founding band member of The Police have an uncontainable passion to move the time to articulate clearly so as to be The son of a CIA officer, Stewart grew and perform, you have to go for it,” she understood. As her other students can up in Egypt and Lebanon. He and his opines. Once back in the US, Olivia took attest, ‘um’ is not a word!” family moved to London when he was 14, part in summer programs with the Boston 2 where he spent a semester at ASL before Ballet and the American Ballet Theatre Elaine Harris ’04, actress attending boarding school in Somerset. before landing at New York City’s Juilliard The life of an actor, according to Elaine, A self-described “quiet kid who sat in the School. In 2010, Olivia was offered a is like a game of Snakes and Ladders (or back of the room,” Stewart wasn’t in a place in the Batsheva Ensemble in Chutes and Ladders if you’re American)— band back then (“my drums wouldn’t fit in Tel Aviv—an exciting, rigorous company “You make gains quickly and rapidly,” she our tiny flat,” he told an ASL reporter in that demanded six-day work weeks and explains, “and fall backwards just as 2007). According to former faculty 200 annual performances. Olivia fast.” Still, acting is her passion, and she member Paul Morton (ASL 1963–97), continued to dance and teach in Israel, wouldn’t have it any other way. The New he was something of a troublemaker. New York, Paris and Stockholm, and even 3 Yorker recently left the Big Apple to be Post-college at UC Berkeley, Stewart co-founded a company of her own, L-E-V, part of a San Francisco production of returned to the UK and performed with in 2014. These days, you can find Olivia Jean Giraudoux’s Ondine, where the stage an old-wave band for a few years. Ready back in Tel Aviv when she isn’t on tour in was set amid the dreamy ruins of 19th to do his own thing, he called up a bass Japan, Brazil or Australia, among other century bathing houses in the National player he knew and convinced him to countries. She summarizes, “I am Lynsey Beauchamp ’78, actress Keira Hart-Mendoza ’98, managing with pop and jazz, the group performs Park District’s Sutro Baths: an ideal leave his group in Newcastle to try a new thankful I can share a part of myself From shooting a commercial in Cape and artistic director, UpRooted Dance more than 100 gigs a year, and their spot for whale watching while rehearsing. sound with Stewart in London. That bass with audiences everywhere, and in return Town, to improvising a scene in the You could say that Keira is a Renaissance album “Some Part of the Truth” was “It was a wonderfully rewarding player is now known as Sting, and the taste good food and espresso in many Moroccan desert alongside Brad Pitt and artist, hailing from a different school the #1 CD on the Folk-DJ chart in 2013. experience, artistically and personally,” rest is history. corners of the globe.” Cate Blanchett in Babel, Lynsey has than Michelangelo, but nonetheless “I never expected to be part of a #1 led a diverse acting career that spans 5 multitalented, creative and professionally record,” Pat admits. He spent the early television, stage and film. Her training versatile. She manages a small arts years of his music career supplementing began at 17, shortly after graduating from company but could just as easily hold the his income in numerous ways, including ASL—“a very cool place in the ’70s,” titles of marketing director, fundraiser, dressing as an elf and inadvertently describes Lynsey. Not only did her 4 costume designer, Pilates instructor and making an on-air announcement in broken biology teacher Lorna Claerbout den mother. Serving the DC, Maryland Spanish for a Telemundo broadcast. (ASL 1975–79) play Bob Marley and Virginia area, Uprooted Dance Being able to play his own music—and during lessons, Patricia Barry (ASL performers have appeared twice on the getting paid to do it—means everything 1972–2003) introduced her to both Millennium Stage at the John F. Kennedy to this ASL alumnus and former Jazz Shakespeare and Spare Rib, a second- Performing Arts Center. They also put on Band member, who still remembers wave feminist magazine. “Ms. Barry a show for ASL alumni during the DC how Paul Nossiter (ASL ?–1984) gave never underestimated me,” Lynsey says. reception in September, commanding him the license to improvise, or how Splitting her time between London and Stephen “Steve-O” Glover ’92, attention with their energizing moves and Ethan Higgins P ’07 ’09 (ASL 1979– Norfolk when she’s not touring, Lynsey performer and comedian Japanese drumming. For Keira, creating 2009) introduced him to the music of jazz finds the unpredictability of her profession Before his raunchy, harrowing stunts dance is like speaking a secret language. guitarist Pat Martino. “ASL propelled my to be its greatest reward. “You have to made him the hero of MTV’s Jackass, TV “We have to figure out how to read each lifelong love of jazz,” he adds gratefully. ■ be committed in your bones to do this,” personality Steve-O was a charming ASLer other on stage, gauge each other’s she cautions. “Don’t do it unless you who wasn’t afraid of stirring up trouble. movements and collaborate on bringing have to, and if you do, do it unflinchingly From London, he made his way through a creative vision to life,” she explains. and never complain.” Clown College (really!) and started to The friends she made through softball, Previous spread: hawk his home videos to Hollywood cheerleading and English with Jim 1 Kathleen Turner Adam Bond ’99, actor producers. His antics eventually caught McGovern P ’83 ’84 ’85 (ASL 1974–98) 2 Kiki Snodgrass 3 Patrick (Raymond) Himmler with In the past year alone, Adam has played the eye of Jackass creator Jeff Tremaine, are lifelong ones, and she encourages Jan Mikrut (left) the roles of a medieval artilleryman, a and Steve-O landed on the reality show aspiring dancers like herself to stay 4 Lauren Buglioli bodyguard, a swordsman, a trumpeter, an when it premiered in 2000. These days, resilient. “Never stop growing and gaining assassin, a Viking and a pilot. “The total you can subscribe to his YouTube channel new skills,” she advises. “Don’t let This spread: variety is my favorite part about this (along with his 3 million fans), and catch setbacks get you down.” 1 Lynsey Beauchamp 2 Adam Bond work,” he enthuses. 2014 also saw the him on tour with his comedy act, or even 3 Elaine Harris 33-year-old land the part of Jesus Christ on campus! He stopped by ASL in Pat Wictor ’84, singer-songwriter 4 Olivia Ancona in CNN’s series, Finding Jesus: Faith, Fact, February 2015, skateboard in hand, to As a member of the folk trio Brother Sun, 5 Stephen “Steve-O” Glover with Forgery. What’s more, Adam’s debonair, say hello to students and teachers. Pat helps create a sound that’s warm, Bhupendra Patel (ASL 1998–present) bearded mug was displayed on a Times We’re certainly glad he did. stirring and sincere. Fusing folk and blues 6 Pat Wictor

32 The American School in London Accents Fall ’15 33 Alumni 1 Andy Bates, Mary (Samler) Williams, Overleaf Andrea (Rhodin) Tebbets and 1 Scott Mason, Tom Dickson, Mark Pearson, Alison (Samler) Williams Raul Biancardi, Michael Cottle, 2 Kate and Carmel (Dowd) Paxson Dave McCloskey, Chuck Rhea 3 Mary Brazell, Merrill Richmond with son Ben 2 Cathy Mehrtens 4 Sally (Hohman) Thomas and family 3 Kim and Mark Dixon 5 Pamela Starke-Reed with husband 4 KC (McClain) Kelem and family Aaron in Venice 5 Stephanie (Warner) Moss with 6 Dan and Meredith Croghan husband Steve in Spain 7 Meighan (Corballis) Dutt with son Jack 6 Christine Rudolph and Jasper Weener 7 Greg Van Court 8 Holly Mullikin and Jeff Majka

Meighan and Jack were on their way 4 6 to check out Harrods, where Meighan worked fitting Eton and Harrow boys for their uniforms. Ricard Gazala reports exciting news about his writing career: “My submission, Kiss Him for Me, was honored as a Class finalist from more than 300 entries in 2 the short story category at the 2014 William Faulkner-William Wisdom Creative Writing Competition in New Orleans. I’m currently working on my third book, 3 5 7 notes Blood of the Moon, and my short story collection, Trust and Other Nightmares. Suzanne (Portnoy) Noble writes, ’61 ’69 “I've been living in London since 1983, Jim Bexfield is still working and An update from Libby Eustis: “I wrote along with my parents and one of my splits his time between Albuquerque, two chapters, one on 19th-century brothers. I moved back after graduating NM, and his apartment near the Pentagon seed and fruit-tree selling in the United from the University of New Hampshire and in DC. Business frequently takes him States and the other on North American spent almost a decade working in film to Lebanon, and he recently vacationed botanical discovery for Flora Illustrata, a production before running a PR firm with in India. book published by the New York Botanical my husband. I have two boys, aged 21 Garden and Yale University Press. My and 23, both living in London. The eldest Susan (Savage) Cavenagh writes, husband, Fred, and I have sold the is now working with me on my latest “My husband, Bob Cavanagh, and I Eustis Estate which is to become a project called Frugl, an app that provides celebrated 50 years together in January house museum. Now we are building an and her family moved to London from information about all things fun to do for 2015. We met in algebra class with work and wants to counsel women, and a few days of sightseeing in London. The off-the-grid house in Westport, MA, where New York when her dad’s job at Texaco £10 or less in London. I’m enjoying the William Curry (ASL 1959–63) in our son, Nick (21), is taking a year off couple lives in DC with their 3-year-old we can grow vegetables and flowers, and Iran uprooted them for the third time (first challenge of starting again at 54! I do 1959—I tripped over Bob’s feet!” from school and is working in Ft. Collins, daughter and hope a London job transfer raise chickens. We have two happy and to Texas from Tulsa, then to New York). keep in contact with a few ASLers, just north of Denver. I am still substitute could be in their future. healthy grown children, one high-powered Mary went on to study at Radcliffe College especially Laurie Stras and Kim teaching, and I love it.” in NYC, the other a little more laid back in (now Harvard) and recently relocated from Jennings ’78. North Carolina. We’ll soon be welcoming a Pleasantville, NY, to Portland, OR. Sally (Hohman) Thomas brought her ’63 Marta Satin-Smith writes, “Our youngest John Ehrlich sends a hello to fellow step-grandchild by marriage; we’re hoping husband and daughter Kate, a Denison In March, Carmel (Dowd) Paxson ’79 is in college, our middle child recently ASLers from the mid ’60s. “Maybe we for more too.” University student studying abroad in Meighan (Corballis) Dutt visited ASL stopped by ASL with her daughter Kate, kayaked down the Mississippi and our can meet at a London reunion someday,” Spain, to visit ASL in the spring. The in June with her youngest son, Jack. a freshman at Bradley University. They eldest lives in NYC. We are enjoying being he suggests. family lives in Dallas. She and her family live in Newtown, CT, were visiting from Chicago, where Carmel empty nesters. I recently joined the board not far from her childhood hometown of raised her four kids. She started at ASL of our children’s hospital.” ’71 Weston. Meighan’s family moved to the Stephen Hall is in Washington, where in Grade 7, when the school was located UK because of her dad’s job with Pitney In February, seven ASL alumni rugby he works at the US Department of near Baker Street, and moved back with ’67 ’77 Bowes. She started at Berkhamsted players flew from the four corners of the In June, Andrea (Rhodin) Tebbets Commerce Bureau of Industry & Security her family to New Jersey before returning While on vacation in Venice with School before joining ASL for her senior Earth to watch Ireland play Italy at Rome’s enjoyed a meal out in New York with in export controls. He was pleased to to London for high school when her dad’s her husband, Aaron, in May, Pamela year. She met one of her best friends, Olympic Stadium during the 2015 rugby Andy Bates, Mary (Samler) Williams see fellow ASLers at the DC reception job with Exxon brought them across the Starke-Reed took in the sites of the Mallory (Maynard) McGrath (twin sister Six Nations Championship. Scott Mason, ’72 and Alison (Samler) Williams. in November 2014. pond again. She was part of the first city with special guest Eagle! Eagle also of Allison (Maynard) Devaux), in a Dave McCloskey ’80, Michael Cottle, graduating class in the current building: accompanied the couple to Cape Town calligraphy class taught by Suzanne Chuck Rhea ’80, Tom Dickson ’80, “One of 99 students,” she recalled. earlier in the year, when they visited 1 Guest (ASL 1971–91). Among Meighan’s Mark Pearson ’80 and Raul Biancardi their daughter Abby during her semester favorite memories is studying English ’80 had a weekend to remember. It was ’72 abroad from Wesleyan University. Mary Brazell visited campus with Literature with George Weyant (ASL a particularly poignant moment for Raul husband Merrill Richmond and son Ben. ’76 1972–96), who took the class to meet as his father, Raul Sr., had represented Mary recalled her days on staff of Spungo, Kathy O’Dell shares, “My husband, David Niven while the star was filming his country in that very stadium during the school’s now defunct political journal. Steve, and I still live in Denver. We love ’78 A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square. the 1960 Olympic Games. The match She was part of the Margaret Thatcher our beautiful state and enjoy bicycling, Dan Croghan and his wife, Meredith, She and her classmates were also part itself was only a small part of the protest and laughed when she saw she especially in the mountains. Our daughter, paid a visit to ASL. An engineer, Dan’s of a focus group during the production weekend’s entertainment, as the group quoted Bob Dylan in her yearbook. Mary Holly (23), is getting her master’s in social work trip to Bristol meant he could tag on of Foxes. Following their tour of campus, took full advantage of the city’s many

34 The American School in London Accents Fall ’15 35 Alumni 1 ’81 5 After a distinguished 30-year career, Captain Evan Piritz retired from the United States Navy in January. In San Diego to witness the ceremony were his brother Jerry ’82 and Mike Carroll. LET US HEAR FROM YOU! Jerry is an engineer for Chevron working Make sure we have your up-to-date email and address, in Kuwait, and Mike is a pilot for Delta and you’ll receive: Air Lines. London Calling: the alumni e-newsletter

6 Regional Reception Invitations: events in Boston, San Francisco, New York, ’83 London and more Over the summer, Kim Dixon and brother Mark ’85 visited with Mark’s two children. Access to the Online Directory: find classmates and friends Kim competed on the championship 2 3 Send us your details! Email [email protected]. varsity volleyball team in 1982, while Mark played rugby. Mark and his kids were visiting from Chicago, and Kim is based in Santa Rosa, CA. Kim was looking forward to the ASL reunion in Chicago in July. KC (Karen McClain) Kelem visited 7 One Waverley Place in June 2015 with her family, including father David McClain Want to connect with ASL? (P ’81 ’83), husband Marty, and children Zack, Kenzie and Reese. KC attended Learn about upcoming alumni events? ASL in the late 70s with brother John McClain ’81. KC was thrilled to find a Have an update to share? framed photo of the 1979 production of Contact your Class Agent! 4 “The King and I,” in which she played a dancer, directed by Jan Mikrut (ASL Email [email protected] for more information. 1974–98). KC has fond memories of a note to the cast from Yul Brynner, star 2015 2000 of the 1956 film version who was starring 8 Tamara Masri Emily (Wasley) Seyller in the West End at the time, expressing [email protected] [email protected] his sorrow at being unable to make the 2013 1999 ASL performance. Deirdre Ely Dan Sharon [email protected] [email protected] 2011 1998 ’84 Vivek Jois Forth Bagley Stephanie (Warner) Moss writes, [email protected] [email protected] “Greetings to all from southern Spain! My husband, Steve, and I retired in 2012 2010 1997 culinary hotspots, sampling some of (ASL 1972–85) and Suzanne Guest to Jimena de la Frontera in Cadiz after Will Tucker 1John Caption Jensen here the best food and wine that Italy has to (ASL 1971–91). almost 30 years in Denver. Some of you [email protected] [email protected] Caption here ’87 3 Caption here offer. The wine fueled much storytelling, may remember Steve from Baker Street, Greg Van Court visited ASL in Cathy Mehrtens returned to campus 2009 41994 Caption here and one by one, each player recounted the pub in the station that he ran for a January during his first trip to London for the first time in nearly 35 years while Michael Molinaro 5Doug Caption Gilbert here crazy anecdotes and wild adventures short time in summer 1984. We had a since returning to the UK for the on a business trip to London in March. [email protected] [email protected] Caption here experienced both on and off the rugby pub in North Finchley called the Green wedding of Andrew Kidd and Solange Cathy lives outside of San Francisco, 7 Caption here pitch during their years at ASL. Man, but left London for Colorado in 1985 (Weinberger) Kidd ’85 (ASL 1996– 2006 1991 where she is director of business for a ‘five-year-adventure.’ Denver ended present). Greg and his alumna wife, Bridget Ely Brandon Bakshi development at a global law firm and up becoming home, and now we’re in Sandra Delvoie ’88, live in Austin, TX, [email protected] [email protected] raises two kids. She enjoyed touring the Spain! We’d love to hear from any alumni where Greg works as a pastor. The old classroom pods and checking out 2005 1967 ’80 passing through.” couple met at an ASL reception in Texas! Congratulations to Carol John, who the gym, home to many of her volleyball Sara Molinaro Andrea Tebbets sold three art pieces to the permanent games with coach Dave Sutherland [email protected] [email protected] collection of the High Museum of Art (ASL 1970–98). She also managed to 2004 1962 in Atlanta, GA. Carol has exhibited have coffee with former physics teacher ’85 ’89 Diana Lazareva Bob Kail at the Atlanta Contemporary Art and basketball coach Joe McEvoy (ASL During her seven-month trip around the Jeff Majka visited campus with [email protected] [email protected] Center, the Quinlan Art Center and 1975–85) while she was in town. world, School Center Manager Christine partner Holly Mullikin in July. Jeff lives the University of Georgia, among other Rudolph (ASL 1989–present) is in Alexandra, VA. Following their London 2002 1961 galleries. She lives in Athens, GA, and exploring countries from Sri Lanka to visit, the couple was headed to Paris. Cory Zimmerman Jim Bexfield remains grateful for the arts foundation Australia and is catching up with several [email protected] [email protected] ASL provided her, particularly under ASL alumni along the way. She and Jasper the direction of Bear Van Wyck Weener ’97 met up in Dubai in June.

36 The American School in London Accents Fall ’15 37 Alumni 1 Michael Meyer’s Grade 2 class photo, 1 3 1979–80 2 Michael Meyer’s Grade 3 class photo, 1980–81 3 Glenn Richter with wife Kyra 4 Josh Adler, Brandon Bakshi and Ramsay Jallad 5 Tarek Malouf, Katura Jensen, Brandon Bakshi and Heather Ogren 6 Amer Samhoun and family 7 Dennis Wu wed Didi Lin

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In September, Margaret (Farmer) 5 7 Pringle returned to ASL as associate director of advancement for annual giving. Margaret moved to London from 2 Rome with her husband, Duncan, and their two children. Her daughter, Marley, has joined Grade 1 at ASL, and her son, Callum, is 2. She joins eight other alumni staff and faculty members and 25 alumni who are also ASL parents in our current community! ’92 Amer Samhoun brought his family to Last December, Glenn Richter came campus while on vacation in London last to ASL with his wife, Kyra. They live in ’91 spring. An Endurance Award recipient, southwest Michigan, not far from Class of ’91 reunion! In July, Brandon Amer had not been to ASL in many years Chicago, where the couple works in Bakshi P ’27, Katura Jensen, Tarek and was excited to show his wife and the nuclear power industry. When Glenn Malouf and Heather Ogren got together kids, Leya (12), Safy (11), Khaled (7), isn’t busy mitigating cyber threats to for a festive lunch at the Enterprise. Sarya (6) and Omar (2) where he grew up. plant and public safety, he likes to build Tarek is founder and CEO of London’s Amer and his wife, Rasha, started their motorcycles, play soccer in a local league, Hummingbird Bakery, Katura stays busy family in London before moving to Doha and blog about preparing fancy meals. as a fashion and music photographer, and and then Dubai, where they settled in Heather was visiting from Boulder, CO, 2005. Amer still considers his Grade 7 where she works as a public librarian. teacher, Alice Leader (ASL 1975–2010), Brandon is still at Broadcast Music, Inc, an inspiration during his years at ASL. ’90 and is also an ASL parent. Michael Meyer reconnected to ASL Dennis Wu wrote to share the happy to share some lower school class photos Over the summer, Brandon Bakshi P ’27 news that he was married on 4 January he recently unearthed, dating back to also lunched in Fitzrovia with pals Josh 2015 to Didi Lin. The couple met on a 1979–81! He fondly remembers his Adler and Ramsay Jallad ’93. Josh plane in 2009. After a wonderful Grade 3 teacher, Helen Bentson (ASL recently transferred to Goldman Sachs’ honeymoon in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, 1971–93), who taught him calligraphy. headquarters in New York, while Ramsay Dennis and Didi returned to their home in Michael currently lives in Rye Brook, NY. works at JP Morgan in London. Los Angeles. “I would love to hear from fellow ASLers!” Dennis remarked.

38 The American School in London Accents Fall ’15 39 Alumni 1 Jacob Lief recently published a book, 4 Julia Iacobescu, Lindsay Botts, 1 2 I Am Because You Are Katy Doggett and Brett Wesoky 2 Adam Cole and Betsy Ebersole 5 Jordan Marton with wife Melissa 3 Cory Zimmerman, Fiona Tarazi, 6 Brian Quinn Carolynn Crabtree and Britlese Thomas

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’94 ’96 ’01 5 6 ’05 Exciting news for author Diane Cook! Lindsay (Botts) Gruhl got together Jill (Bottomley) Kunkes and husband After losing their beloved son Rudy Her collection of short stories, Man vs. with three of her closest ASL friends Matt welcomed their daughter, Cecilia to a rare brain cancer in 2013, Vidhu Nature, was published in August. Hailed and their families, Julie (Iacobescu) Dylan Kunkes, on 31 August 2013. and Som Menon P ’05 ’09 started a as “perfectly pitched” and “astonishingly Doernte, Katy (Doggett) Burgess and foundation in his honor. Visit www. bold,” this work explores the boundary Brett Wesoky, on the west coast. The rudyamenon.org to learn more about between the wild and the civilized. Man foursome met at ASL back in Grade 6! supporting research for Gliomatosis vs. Nature has been shortlisted for the ’02 Cerebri. The Maine wedding of Carolynn LA Times Books Prize 2015 and was a Crabtree and Julius Rose in August San Francisco Chronicle Notable Book 2014 was the perfect occasion for of 2014. ’97 In March, Tara (Samuell) Friez returned classmates Cory Zimmerman, Fiona ’06 Brett Dakin is now general counsel at to ASL with her husband while vacationing Tarazi and Britlese Thomas to get Congratulations to Lindsay Hodge, the Child Mind Institute, an organization in London. They are raising their family together and celebrate. The newlyweds who finished 16th in the women’s division dedicated to transforming mental health in Midland, TX. Tara enjoyed catching up live in Cambridge, MA, where Carolynn of the Paris Marathon in April with a time care for children everywhere. Brett with classmate John Farmer (ASL works for Cornerstone Reputation, of 2:45:30. provides legal advice and strategic 2012–present). a company she founded to help guidance to the executive leadership and students with their online presence board of directors on a range of issues. (visit www.cornerstonereputation.com During their ten-hour layover in London to learn more). while traveling to Cape Town, Jordan ’07 ’04 Leigh Ercole writes, “I am currently ’99 Marton and his wife, Melissa, visited Jack Lowey is still living in Chicago Two weeks after they got engaged, Amanda Granum visited ASL shortly a third grade teacher at a traditional ASL. After earning his B.A. in electrical and is joining the Class of 2017 at Betsy Ebersole ’99 and her fiancé, before Thanksgiving in 2014, when she public school in the South Bronx. I am ’95 engineering at Tufts, Jordan worked in Northwestern’s Kellogg School of In October, Jacob Lief, founder & CEO Adam Cole, visited ASL. Elizabeth hadn’t was in London for the wedding of her continually inspired by memories of Boston and is now studying at Columbia Management this fall. He writes, “In of Ubuntu Education Fund, returned to returned to campus since graduation. older sister, Alexis ’98. Amanda lives my ASL experiences with amazing Business School. He and Melissa met June, I got engaged to Kaitlin Arntz on ASL to meet with high school students to The couple lives in DC, where Betsy works in Philadelphia, where she teaches art educators.” playing ice hockey. Jordan spoke highly a trip to Paris. I hope to visit London discuss his work supporting vulnerable as senior product director at The Atlantic. at Abington Friends School. She earned of former crew coach Meg Bailey (ASL and ASL soon!” Brian Quinn visited campus this children in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. She still keeps in touch with some ASL her B.A. at Boston University and still 1990–2014) and teacher Judy Kisor summer. He has lived in Boston since He also presented a Speakers Series classmates and was thrilled to be back. remembers studying art history with (ASL 1994–2014). studying at Boston University post event to the community based on his new Judy Kisor (ASL 1994–2014), one of ASL, graduating from the College of book, I Am Because You Are. the best teachers she ever had. Ellen Willett married Crissy Camerota in Communication in 2011. Brian co-owns September 2013. a real estate and concierge company.

40 The American School in London Accents Fall ’15 41 Alumni 1 Ryan Tveter competed in the 1 FIA Formula 3 European Series in the Netherlands Faculty News 2 Caroline Garcia with boyfriend Akos Furton 3 Patrick Cirenza took part in Stanford's Summit on Cybersecurity 4 Ruth Heuman with Holley and Doug Adcock and Yael, Myron and Rachel Belkind 5 Julie Ryan, Steve and Cynthia Wasley

In October, Martin Drexler P ’23 (ASL 1995–2001; 2008–present) exhibited paintings at London’s Leighton House Not last orders! Museum. The exhibition, The Craft of Drawing and Painting: celebrating tradition On Thursday, 10 September, some of our beloved former faculty gathered today, showcased artists who have together on a sunny afternoon for a “faculty meeting” at The Garden Gate pub in worked within the atelier tradition. Hampstead. Former middle school science and math teacher Mike McKeen (ASL 1973–97) has been arranging such meet-ups and gatherings for former We’re proud that Buck Herron (ASL faculty and staff for a number of years. Mike likes to take attendance at these 1998–present) was highlighted in the once-or-twice-a-year events, and was delighted to see Marika Ison ’07 arrive, alumni magazine of his alma mater, representing the School in her new role as interim alumni director. The afternoon St. Mary’s College of California, for being saw a great turnout, including former colleagues who were in town visiting a force in the performing arts field. from the US. Fond memories were shared and glasses were raised among old “Directing has been the most creative friends. Guests included: Doug Adcock (ASL 1970–93), Joyce Anderson part of my career,” Buck reported. “I’m (ASL 1980–2012), Roger Corrigan (ASL 1971–2010), Jude Bailey (ASL working so much more consistently and 1981–2007), Alice Leader (ASL 1975–2010), Helen Blum (ASL 1967–2000), creatively…I’m very fortunate for that.” Mary Louise Barker (ASL 1977–2003), Jackie Fryer (ASL 1966–89), Former faculty member Ruth Heuman John Lutz (ASL 1971–2000), Dave Sutherland (ASL 1970–98) and wife Chris, (ASL 1970–2009) recently toured Sue Ellen Wilder Johnson (ASL 1969–74), Lois St. Pierre (1978–2009), the National Press Club in Washington, Holley Adcock (ASL 1970–93), Cathy Adams (1974–2005), Linda McKeen 2 3 ’13 DC, with past colleagues Holley and (ASL 1975–2003) and Chris Siegfried (ASL 1961–98). Courtnay McClure continues to enjoy Doug Adcock (ASL 1970–93) and the life at Syracuse University, where she Belkind family: Yael ’90, and Myron is a junior. and Rachel P ’90 ’93. 4 Brendan Ware is a junior at Purdue Jaime Dominguez P ’18 (ASL 1997– University. 2005) writes, “Ti and I are still in San Francisco with our three children. Antonio ’18, who went to ASL for K1, is a sophomore. A number of ASL alums ’15 have stopped through, including several James McClure is a freshman at who have ended up substitute teaching at Wake Forest University. my school, Stuart Hall for Boys, including Ian Ware graduated from C.D. Senior Kevin Benz ’05, Lili Katz ’06 and Hylton High School in northern Virginia. Emily Oakes ’03. After years of being scattered all over He is a freshman at the University of the world, everyone in his family has Bill and Julie Ryan (ASL 1994–2013) ’12 Virginia, double majoring in international made Massachusetts their home. During her spring break from University paid a visit to Cynthia and Steve economics and global development. of Texas at Austin, Caroline Garcia paid Wasley (ASL 1975–2008) at the Marika Ison is working as interim a visit to ASL. She happily said hello to Wasleys’ home in Pacific Grove, CA. director of alumni relations at ASL! Her 5 former teachers Vicky Hamadache appointment follows a successful year Director of Alumni Relations Libby Jones (ASL 1985–present), Becky Mason ’95 Family at the School as campaign assistant. (ASL 2012–present) and husband Huw (ASL 2009–present), John Reilly Marika is thrilled to be back at One are thrilled to announce the arrival of their (ASL 2011–present) and Tony Bracht Waverley Place! son, William “Liam” Robert Jones, born News (ASL 2002–present). Currently a senior, 14 September. Caroline is a business major and interned with BP in 2014. Photography teacher Erik Niemi (ASL 2007–present) exhibited a series of ’11 Well done to Ryan Tveter, who finished In his final semester at Stanford, Patrick photographs at Hoxton's Red Gallery ninth in the second race of a tripleheader Cirenza was asked to take part in the in September 2015. The exhibition, for the FIA Formula 3 European Series at White House Summit on Cybersecurity Objectify, showed the work of three artists In June, Paul and Shelley Larsen Zandvoort, The Netherlands, in July. Learn and Consumer Protection held at the whose art examined the importance of P ’09 ’11 ’15 ’21 visited ASL with more about the 21-year-old’s exciting university in February. objects as keys for social and emotional their children, McKay ’21 and racing career through his website, memory, as fascinating and mysterious Madeline ’15. The family lives in ryantveter.com. companions to our lives. Utah.

42 The American School in London Accents Fall ’15 43 Alumni We are proud of the newest America Invades, ASL published writers in Chris Kelly ’77 P ’14 ’18 Peace, Alumni our midst! Check out these On 13 October 1812, militia major general and native New Yorker Stephen coconuts two intriguing debut books van Rensselaer III launched an ill-fated from alumni who share a attack against the British in Canada, leading to the first major battle in the and love passion for the US military War of 1812. This story, among others and storytelling. of American warfare, was the stuff of Zack Nathan ’13 great intrigue for Chris, a relative of van launches snack Green on Blue, Rensselaer and self-proclaimed history buff (an original letter from Benedict company News Elliot Ackerman ’98 Arnold relaying the details of the 1812 skirmish to General Wooster hangs in The summer after he graduated from Sparks have certainly flown since the his bathroom at home). Chris’s military ASL, Cornell-bound Zack Nathan distinguished ASL alumnus published history fervor inspired him to co-author a sampled a treat his mom whipped his first novel, Green on Blue, this past book on the subject, aptly titled America up in the kitchen: toasted coconut February. Set in war-torn Afghanistan, Invades: How We’ve Invaded or been flakes seasoned with cinnamon and where Elliot served intermittently from negotiated, and soon Zack was Militarily Involved with Almost Every salt. “They were absolutely delicious,” 2008 to 2011, the book’s narrator is a back home in London researching, Country on Earth. the 20-year-old recalled. “I thought young Afghan boy who joins a US-funded networking and exploring all things “It’s deliberately provocative,” about what I could do with these flakes militia to save his severely injured older coconut and food-industry related. explained Chris, adding that his work is and came up with other ideas.” brother. Crafting the story from the “I had no idea what I was doing,” by no means a celebration of war or Brainstorming and creating have perspective of an Afghan soldier was the Zack recalled. But with persistence imperialism. “When I say invasion, I’m always been second nature to Zack. greatest challenge for Elliot, who spent and a few lucky breaks, the Ape trying to be neutral. I want the reader At ASL, he spent time developing an 18 months writing (and rewriting) it. company was born. Or more to decide.” Covering Afghanistan to iPad app in his independent study, “In the earlier drafts, I had constructed specifically, Coconut Curls were born. Zimbabwe, America Invades explores the combining what he learned in AP the novel to have the Afghan soldier Ape’s first snack is available in two scope of US military invasions and Computer Science and art class with telling the story to an American,” Elliot flavors and is on sale at Planet Organic involvement around the world—a broad Martin Drexler. “I’m interested in explained. “As I got deeper in, I realized and As Nature Intended stores. What’s reach, according to Chris’s research. systematic learning—building models that if my ambition was to render the war more, Coconut Curls were sold at this Andorra, Bhutan and Liechtenstein are and testing them in the real world,” from an Afghan perspective then that year’s Glastonbury Festival! the only three countries exempt from he explained. “ASL gave me freedom construct would dilute the story. I had “I’m most excited about finally some form of American intervention. to do all these different things.” nothing to hide at that point.” sharing the curls with the world,” Zack “This was the most surprising thing Confronted with limited food choices You could say Elliot’s writing career enthused. “We have some really big I learned,” shared Chris. His yearlong during a summer art course at UPenn, was fated: his mother is a best-selling and ambitious plans, so it’s great to fact-finding quest took him to the port Zack started to explore the science novelist who raised her family around see our team achieving them!” ■ of Whitehaven, Cumbria, in northeast behind food, and whether he could books, and he went on to study English England as well as inside the ASL make a positive change in the food literature and history at Tufts University. community: Vietnam War veteran system—starting with those yummy Perhaps more surprising was the Bill Funk, husband of former middle coconut flakes. He was certain he 35-year-old’s decision to join the Marine school principal Cathy Funk (ASL could create his own path and develop Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) 2011–15), was one of his primary a healthy product if he put college on back when he was in college. His sources, and current parent Hassan hold, he just needed to convince his eight-year tenure in the military included Elmasry P ’12 ’14 ’16 provided some parents. Terms and limits were tours of Iraq, Afghanistan and relief work context to the book’s chapter on Egypt. in New Orleans, post-Hurricane Katrina, Originally from California, Chris moved not to mention earning the honors of a to London in 1970 for his father’s Silver Star, a Bronze Star for Valor and a Alumni sabbatical at the BBC. Chris eventually Purple Heart. What of his time at ASL? made his way back to the west coast to “My arrival was somewhat jarring,” Elliot earn his B.A. in philosophy at UC Berkeley in admitted. “I was 9 years old and had only and, following in his dad’s footsteps, lived in LA, and it was strange to go from worked in the TV business in Seattle. Ten the beachy sprawl of southern California, print years ago, he moved his family to London running in a sprinkler, to the urban crunch so his children could enjoy the same that is London.” But acclimating to life at international experience he had. In fall ASL came quickly to Elliot, who fondly 2014, he set off on a 36-state book tour remembers teachers Paul Morton (ASL that involved an America Invades branded 1963–97) and Mary Louise Barker van and numerous NFL tailgates. He (ASL 1977–2003), trips to Stonehenge also got to cross off Little Bighorn, and Greece, and woodworking with Montana, on his list of battle sites to Tim Watson (ASL 1973–2007)—his explore. “You have to be determined to parents still use a coffee table he made get there,” he admitted. ■ in that class. “Living in London helped me form a broader view of the world,” he acknowledged gratefully.

44 The American School in London Accents Fall ’15 45 1

of the film is that these artists’ homes are being threatened so that developers can build a skyscraper. The film explores what it means to lose your home, what it means to be an artist, and how architecture influences art. I found out just this week that the redevelopment of the colony is being put on hold, and 3 that the artists have a say in their future. 2 This is what you dream of; to go into a community, to be invited into their lives, to gain their trust, to build bridges and life. She is a wonderfully spirited, strong connections with people you wouldn’t feminist who taught with a lot of humor Fazeelat otherwise meet, and to express their and knew how to engage her students. story. And then to create impact that Ms. Barry made me feel like I could helps people understand each other— Aslam ’03: achieve my goals. She made me feel that, to me, is the biggest achievement. smart. I was inspired to be independent; Documentary to be myself. And I took that with me to What’s the greatest challenge that Wellesley, where I met some amazing you face as a filmmaker? professors who continued to open my Sometimes getting the best story 4 filmmaker & mind and help shape my perspective in means risking your safety or even your a different way. I ended up majoring in life. I have worked in conflict areas; journalist gender studies and media studies and I’ve worked with the Taliban. But the was happy to be pointed in the direction hardest part, for me, is trying to avoid of viable career options in film. the common and exploitative practices After graduating from ASL and Wellesley which, unfortunately, can be the nature College, Fazeelat returned to her native What motivated your move to of this job. Journalism is changing, Pakistan to launch her career as a Pakistan, post college? and there’s a lot of flexibility, so it’s a journalist and filmmaker. Producing I was born in Pakistan, and have challenge to find a code of ethics that work for PBS Frontline, Channel 4 UK, always identified as a Pakistani. When I journalists across the board can abide Al Jazeera and HBO, the 29-year-old graduated from Wellesley, I felt incredibly by and agree on. That’s why I love filmmaker’s distinguished credits now empowered with nowhere to go. Pakistan working at Buzzfeed, it’s a company include co-producing the Oscar-award- had entered a time of conflict, and I felt, that breeds empathy and I find that winning documentary Saving Face, professionally, that it was my duty and incredibly inspirational. depicting the trauma and resilience of responsibility to go back and contribute Pakistani acid attack survivors. Her to my country in a way that might help. Any advice for budding ASL latest project, Tomorrow We Disappear, I spent six years there, not only reporting journalists and filmmakers? premiered at the 2014 Tribeca Film on Pakistan’s issues, but also interacting One: watch a lot of documentaries. Chicago Reunion: A weekend to remember Festival and was named by IndieWire as with survivors and heroes on the Two: start getting hands-on experience. Thanks to the extraordinary efforts of Class of 1980 pals Ned Campbell, one of the “20 Best Documentaries of ground, who deserved a spotlight and Three: there’s no shortcut for hard work. Andy Reed and Paul Snead, 120 ASL alumni representing Classes 1978 through 2014.” Fazeelat is currently based often needed moral, financial or It doesn’t matter who you know or who 1987 descended upon Chicago for an unofficial reunion in July. Eagles travelled from between LA and New York, where she political support. you’re connected to. In the long run, as far as Morocco to be part of the revelry. Weekend activities included catching a is helping to start BuzzFeed’s video taking shortcuts will catch up with you. From Pakistan to New York, you Cubs game at Wrigley Field, enjoying a Chicago riverboat cruise and dining out with news division. Fazeelat spoke to Finally, you have to love this job, and your work have earned several friends old and new. The main event took place on Saturday night, when everyone was Alumni Director Libby Jones about her because it won’t necessarily pay you. impressive awards. Of which invited to enjoy dinner and drinks at a downtown Chicago restaurant. Following the rising career. If you’re lucky enough to have financial accolade are you most proud? celebration, Elisabeth Myers ’81 commented, “ASLers are unique and dynamic support, that is great! The Oscar for Saving Face was an game-changers. I am happy to be associated with such fine citizens of the world.” LJ: Where did you discover your amazing accomplishment, of course. It To learn more about Fazeelat or passion for storytelling? I hope it puts your work on an incredible platform. her work, visit her website, 1 Mike Bishop, Allison Evans Richardson, Sue Katzen and Adam Becker was at ASL! But my greatest accolade is from my http://www.fazeelataslam.com/ 2 Elizabeth (Betsy) Dakin, Cindy (Thomas) Faatz, Nicolette (Nordin) Heavey, Christine (Cowdrey) FA: At ASL, I was exposed to so many most recent documentary, Tomorrow We Flowers, Josephine Eke, Mary-Ann (Eastlake) Savage perspectives, nationalities and cultures. Disappear, which I co-produced. It’s about 3 Scott Mason, Dave McCloskey, Andy Reed, Scott Elliott One of my English teachers, Patricia an artist colony in India full of India’s 4 Ned Campbell, Caitlin McGee, Ken Halbert, Cindy Thomas Fatz, Rick Dixon, Scott Stevens, Josephine Eke, Scott Elliott, Andy Reed Barry (ASL 1972–2003), is someone last traditional artists: magicians, fire I will cherish and value for the rest of my breathers and puppeteers. The premise

46 The American School in London Accents Fall ’15 47 Save the In memoriam dates!

Please join us for an ASL alumni event in 2016! 8 Jan: ASL Homecoming (London) Edward Hoffman (ASL 1973–91) 29 January: Boston We are saddened to report Edward “Ed” Hoffman passed away in A book in the Mellon Library 1 February: New York the loss of the following June. Ed taught high school social studies Collection is dedicated to each for many years and served as head of member of the ASL community who 15 February: San Francisco members of our community: the social studies department. As passes away. For more information, 16 February: Los Angeles Alumni and parents of alumni described in the 1974 ASL yearbook: please contact Friends of the Bob Black ’64 passed away on “From New York, Mr. Ed Hoffman has Libraries (FOTL), [email protected], or Visit the alumni events calendar 21 January 2015. lived most recently in Brazil, but is at visit asl.org > Community/Login > online for more details and home in several worldwide communities.” PCA > Friends of the Libraries updates (www.asl.org/alumni) Casey (Thorsten) Biliouris ’78 died on John Wilson (ASL 1971–2009), 2 May 2015. She is survived by her Ed’s colleague, remembers how much husband, Aaron. time Ed invested in preparing his lessons, Robert Bradshaw ’81 died in July 2015. and how committed he was to improving his students’ expository writing skills. Mark Cook ’80 died on 22 January 2015 Another colleague, Peter Rezendes, in London. recalls Ed's “discerning eye for beauty.” American Mary Freeman P ’08, mother of A service of Thanksgiving for Ed’s life was Joanna Freeman ’08 and wife of held in Kilburn in late July. Varel Freeman P ’08, passed away on Memorial Cynthia Stirrup (ASL 1980–86) 11 May 2015. Former ASL librarian Cynthia Stirrup Always ASL celebrates the tradition of generosity at Tomas Harari ’10 passed away in passed away on 2 February 2012. Collection ASL and promotes a connection from one generation August 2015. A graduate of Pretoria University, Cynthia arrived in the UK in 1966, where her son, Helene Kennedy P ’14, mother of of ASLers to the next. Always ASL recognizes Hadley, was born in 1968. She enjoyed Celebrate a teacher, coach, Kate Kennedy ’14, died on 30 March a highly successful career as a librarian graduate or friend by naming a individuals and families who have given consistently 2015. Helene is survived by husband in London schools, after which she book in the Mellon Library Collection Mark Kennedy P ’14. over a long period of time to our school, or have worked for Voluntary Service Overseas in his or her honor. Friends of included the American School in London in their Zoe Leader ’68 died on 3 March 2015. in West Africa, setting up school libraries. the Libraries (FOTL) invites you to In 1999, Cynthia became ‘Granny’ to write a personalized inscription, Andrew Maloney ’97 died on estate plans. Hadley’s son, Louis, a role she assumed select a title, and dedicate it to 31 July 2015. with her characteristic passion. After a an ASLer of your choice. A gift card In our Annual Report, we are honored to include the names of those in our Steven Seligson ’82 passed away on successful battle with cancer in the mid acknowledging the donation is community who leave a bequest to ASL, or who are members of our Ten-year and 11 March 2015. 2000s, lifelong lover of travel Cynthia sent to the recipient; however, Twenty-year societies. With gratitude, we acknowledge their loyalty to our School. and her partner, Lindsay Davies, toured recognitions can also remain The ASL community was Former faculty and staff extensively before cancer returned, anonymous if desired. The saddened to hear of the death of Suzanne Guest (ASL 1971–91) tragically, in 2011. Cynthia is survived by inscribed book is a lasting gift to Mildred Weinstock, who passed A bequest Suzanne Guest passed away on Lindsay, her family and her many friends. the permanent collection of the away in January 2015. As a former — can provide generous support without affecting your current Wednesday, 17 June 2015. Suzanne Mellon Library. teacher and graduate of the income or cash flow worked in ASL’s art department and University of Pennsylvania, Mildred served as head of art for 20 years. cared passionately about education. ­— can be directed to a specific program or for a specific purpose Former Grade 2 teacher Laura Bradshaw She made regular annual gifts to — will provide a charitable estate tax deduction (ASL 1989–2003) remarked about ASL throughout the course of her Suzanne, “She was one of the first life. Her daughter is a long-serving — is easy to accomplish with a simple codicil people I met at ASL, and she completely and popular former ASL faculty — will help future generations at ASL. changed my outlook on life!” In 2005, member. Mildred’s fondness for Suzanne was a well-deserved recipient ASL endured because ours was If you are thinking about including the School in your estate plans, and of the Stephen Eckard Award for the school that allowed her daughter would like to explore the best options for you and your family, please contact inspiring and dedicated service to to flourish as a teacher. Mildred Director of Advancement William Vaughan, +44 (0)20 7449 1260 or education. Her superb calligraphy work remembered ASL in her estate [email protected] can be seen around the hallways of plans. Our students will benefit from ASL today. Suzanne is sorely missed by her generous bequest and we are her family and many friends at ASL. eternally grateful.

48 The American School in London Accents Fall ’15 49 The American School in London One Waverley Place London NW8 0NP