HILLTOPPER

innovation All-Stars

+ REMEMBERING winter/spring 2017 HEADMASTER BLOOM VOLUME XXV / ISSUE 2 CHECKING IN CONTENTS

4 innovation all-stars WINTER/SPRING 2017 contents

Use the Layar App to discover digital content 12 with your mobile device. Remembering Download the App from 27th Headmaster iTunes, Google Play, or Blackberry World. John Bloom, credited for reviving Academy in 1970s

1 Find a page with a Layar call to action 22 (pages 22, 25, and 28). election 2 festival 2016 Use Layar to scan the page by tapping device screen. (Hint: make sure entire page is viewable for scanning). 24 3 17 Watch for a photo gallery to open or for a departments Rachel Rios ’08 video to play. 3 HEAD OF SCHOOL 14 ALUMNI NEWS 17 ON THE HILLTOP 4 25 THE MIDDLE Tap video to view in full 26 FROM THE ARCHIVES screen, or slide finger to 28 WA ATHLETICS view additional images 32 GIVING NEWS in photo gallery. 35 CHECKING IN 45 PASSINGS 5 Enjoy! 18 the HILLTOPPER

BOARD OF TRUSTEES winter/spring 2017 officers & members VOLUME XXV / ISSUE 2

President Henry Dormitzer III ’88 Head of School Ronald M. Cino P’21, ’22 First Vice President Susan Weagly Jacobs, J.D. P’03 Second Vice President Sarah (Sullivan) Pulsifer ’91 Hilltopper Editor Neil R. Isakson P’15, ’19 Secretary Brian A. O’Connell, Esq. ’67 Treasurer Jonathan S. Stuart ’86 Associate Editor Barbara Strogoff P’97, ’03 2015 Case DI Bronze Award Benny Sato Ambush ’69 Graphic Design Good Design LLC Dr. Lauren S. Baker P’15,’18 winner for Best William Breidenbach ’69 Photography Ursula Arello Designed Magazine Patricia Z. Eppinger P’16,’20 Marillyn Earley R. Victor Fields ’71 Alicia Figueiredo Matthew Finkle ’87 Stephanie Jackson 2016 CASE DI Silver David P. Forsberg ’65 Tom Kates Photography Award winner for J. Michael Grenon ’88 Neil Isakson William Haddad ’92 Charley Mull General Excellence, Arthur Kentros ’74 Mike Nyman Photography Independent School Jamie E. Lavin ’02 Tony Rinaldo Photography Magazines Dana R. Levenson ’75 Dan Vaillancourt Andrew B. O’Donnell, Esq. ’73 Megan O’Leary P’20 Videography Neil Isakson Jacqueline Peterson OskeeVision James J. Pietro ’81 Susan Puryear P’19,’21 Advancement Office Marillyn G. Earley, Director of Advancement J.P. Ricciardi P’15,’17 Ursula A. Arello ’85, P’21, Director of Donor and Alumni Engagement Hervey S. Ross ’46 Frank R. Callahan ’71, Director of Planned Giving Robert Scumaci P’15,’18 Alicia Figueiredo, Manager of Alumni Programs and Events David V. Shamoian ’70 Neil R. Isakson, Director of External Communications Luke M. Vaillancourt ’01 Anette Macintire P’22, Annual Fund Coordinator Dexter P. Morse, Headmaster Emeritus ON THE COVER Tara Probeck, Director of Marketing Innovation all-stars are Erica Driscoll Ribeiro P’20, Director of Annual Giving taking their passions to Donald E. “Dee” Rowe ’47, Special Assistant to the Head of School new heights as a result Kim Stone, Director of Donor Development of WA’s commitment to Barbara Strogoff, Gift Coordinator/Editor technology and education. (Tom Kates Photography) Featured Writer Jody McNamara P’09,’12, a marketing and communications consultant, is a longtime feature writer and former director of parent relations at Worcester Academy. Jody, who organized and chaired two consecutive auctions for WA, lives on Cape Cod.

Contributing Writer Frank Callahan ’71 is longtime director of Planned Giving for Worcester Academy. A member of the American Antiquarian Society, he is WA’s unofficial historian. MISSION Worcester Academy exists to instill in its students the desire to learn The Hilltopper is published twice yearly by Worcester Academy. Reader comment, as well as information of interest, is always welcome. throughout life, to engage passionately with the world around them, Please write to Neil R. Isakson, director of External Communications, and to be honorable persons of strong and resourceful character. at Worcester Academy, 81 Providence St., Worcester, MA 01604, or email [email protected]. CORE VALUES We are a community—curious, thoughtful, generous, and thriving in our diversity. We embrace each of our core values as essential to the mission of Worcester Academy and as testimony of our beliefs and commitments.

HONOR | RESPECT | COMMUNITY | PERSONAL GROWTH | CHALLENGE

2 the HILLTOPPER : winter/spring 2017 from the head of school WA innovators taking tech passions to new heights

“Technology is omnipresent at school with students using it throughout each day to manage their social lives and academic pursuits. They always seem to find an app to match just about any area of life.”

Worcester Academy’s investment in technology is remarkable Hilltopper and you will see an “all-star” lineup of WA tech innova- for its depth and breadth. We’ve been doing it comprehensively, tors who are taking their passions to new heights as a direct result thoughtfully, and strategically for well over a decade. We have of our commitment to technology and education. They include Kaz fulfilled one of the goals from our previous strategic plan and Grala ’17, Maggie Reiter ’18, Ethan Student ’18, Aryan Mayor ’21, have utilized technology to improve operational efficiency. Even and Isa Cino ’22. Their work runs the gamut: They are focusing on more importantly, our faculty’s use of educational technology has engineering challenges regarding aerodynamics and cars. They improved our students’ learning and communication abilities. are building robots and participating in competitions highlighting We are positioned as a leader amongst independent schools, as innovation. They are commandeering 3-D printing programs that evidenced by our faculty frequently being called upon to deliver put form to whatever their minds can imagine. presentations and workshops at regional and national conferences. Perhaps most striking is the fact that these students are Technology is omnipresent at school with students using it representative of a campus that is teeming with examples of throughout each day to manage their social lives and academic student-driven innovation, whether in English or math or history, pursuits. They always seem to find an app to match just about or science or art or world languages. Technology at WA is ever- any area of life. You need only to walk from one end of campus to present, and in a way not commonly found in the ethos, or in the the other to see students interacting with laptops, iPads, and cell classrooms, of most school environments. In particular, faculty and phones, among other devices. There is a natural tension between staff seek opportunities for students to use tech to access informa- the all-consuming nature of technology and the challenges it tion and to demonstrate knowledge differently. They use it in the presents for students and adults to engage meaningfully with creative process and in assessment. It adds value to teaching and those around them. Technology can unite or isolate. We can use it learning by engaging students in new, elegant, and sometimes to share or exclude. It can affirm our community’s core values— surprising ways. Honor, Respect, Community, Personal Growth, and Challenge—or Sixteen years after arriving at WA, it is clear to me that tech- it can test them. nology education is as important to the Worcester Academy At Worcester Academy, we see technology as a tool that sup- experience as any discipline that we teach. I have seen it in my ports our teaching and learning. It prepares students to solve many different roles at school, most recently as head of school, complex questions and to demonstrate learning while at the same but also as a WA parent. The Hilltop is exceptional in this regard. time allowing for creative expression. Our classrooms and school More important, it is enabling Worcester Academy students to take culture support the active and purposeful use of technology. advantage of the opportunities provided to them in order to take Students are prepared to use technology because it is among the the lead when it comes to their own education. best resources available to solve problems. Our most visible tech-learning program may have been the 1 to1 Laptop Initiative, but there have been many more programs, from Day of Code to iPad initiatives. Take a look inside this edition of The Ronald M. Cino

Worcester Academy 3 innovation

All-Stars by Jody P. McNamara Supphachai Salaeman/Shutterstock.com

4 the HILLTOPPER : winter/spring 2017 Here on the HILLTOP we spend a lot of time exploring the opportunities for active learning,” topic of innovation. We’re constantly says Jeremy Smith, WA physics striving to keep our Hilltoppers not only instructor and faculty advisor for the competitive, but also leading in a world Academy’s Robotics Team. “In terms that seems to shift and change daily of method, I feel that a lot of it is just with new technologies and new method- getting out of the students’ way. ologies. If Steve Jobs was right—that it’s “Sometimes it’s setting up the innovation that distinguishes between a problem or the situation and step- leader and a follower—then the Hilltop ping back and saying, ‘What can must be an innovation incubator as you do with this? What can you fig- we move firmly into the 21st century. ure out?’ We give our students the How do we do it? We know that a space to answer tough questions.” true learning community draws not We nurture each of our 620 students only on the strength of its faculty every day, helping them all to find their members, but also on the strength and passions and then nudging them to creativity of its talented students. lead. Meet five Hilltoppers who meet “We try to give them a lot of that definition of innovative leader. Supphachai Salaeman/Shutterstock.com

Worcester Academy 5 Infill is how We never underestimate our students’ ability to teach us… hollow the object is. Meet 100% is solid and about When I was a 10% is as thin as ETHAN STUDENT, sophomore, I was in you can get before intro to engineering catastrophic things and 3-D printed a turbine start to happen! grade 11, 3-d printing phenom with turbine blades. Each blade took 30 hours to make “I was introduced to 3-D printing in funds became available to buy more and the rotor hub took 15. I used 4 my old middle school, so I entered 3-D printers and I was able to help shells but only 10% infill in order to keep the blades as light as Printing with Worcester Academy with a little determine which printers to buy for possible. I made 3 blades 4 shells means background in it already. I didn’t do the school. So now we have five 3-D and 1 rotor hub for a that your object’s much freshman year because I was printers and we use them a lot. I total of 105 hours of outer wall will be just getting used to WA. Then last service them as well—keeping them printing. 4 times your 3-D printer year, I talked to Ms. Hanson [Jennifer all updated with the right software nozzle’s diameter Hanson, director of Library Services] and keeping them up to speed. use the 3-D printers to print out three (i.e 4 X 0.4mm = about her 3-D printing, and I ended “Last year, I was in the Intro to different types of blades. You want to 1.6mm outer up being able to help because of Engineering class and we did a project make the blades as big as possible to wall). what I knew. At the end of that year, on wind turbines. We were able to get the most surface area, and the cool part about 3-D printers is that you can do this thing called infill, which has to motor, rotates an assembly, and drops do with the density of the object. We the ping-pong ball out. It’s a ton of fun. would set our infill to, say 10 percent, Hopefully it’ll work well! Now we’re rather than 100 percent, so the object putting on the finishing touches. We will be very light but still has the hard want to make it look better now, and shell on the outside. We made these we’re doing some quality control and turbine blades and centered a rotor beta testing. For example, we want to hub that connected to the motor. We make sure that you can’t unplug it, plug then tested them to see how much it back in, and get a free ball! We need voltage we could get from the turbine. to work out little problems like that. “I’m in a different class now called “I think WA gives me a lot of sup- Intro to STEAM (Science, Technology, port on being as innovative as I can. Engineering, Art, and Math) and we’re I talk to Ms. Hanson and the Science making a ping-pong ball dispenser for Department faculty a lot about the the student center. The great thing tools that we have to use and what about this project is that it’s using all we can get to enhance things. We are these different aspects of design. We really doing well with the 3-D print- had to not only design the dispenser, ers right now, but we’d like to get into but also make it visually pleasing. laser cutting. There’s a problem with We’re using the 3-D printer, we’re using space, though. Laser cutters can be software code, and we’re using regular very big, so we need a larger room! mechanical tools to put it all together. “I really want to go into mechanical We went to Home Depot to get our vari- engineering. I’ve always loved it. When ous pieces. We came up with a design I was younger, my friends and family that uses the coin mechanism from a would save old pieces of electronics laundromat washing machine, a big and give them to me. I was always globe to hold the ping-pong balls, scrap taking things apart and either putting wood, metal, ball bearings, steel rods, them back together or figuring out how and other materials. What we came up to make other stuff with them. The with is a machine—3-D printed—that, school gives me plenty of resources when you insert a quarter in, it turns a to continue that experimenting.”

6 the HILLTOPPER : winter/spring 2017 innovation All-Stars We’re sure to reinforce and encourage already-existing passions… Meet ARYAN MAYOR, grade 8, builder extraordinaire

“Two summers ago I had appendicitis School Robotics Team as an 8th grader. and when I was recovering I got really So it’s pretty cool. WA gives me the tools bored. All I was doing was spending the I need to keep going with the things I’m entire day on my iPad, and even that got interested in. boring. I was always interested in know- “I also built a drone. I’m actually still in ing what was inside my computer so the building process because I still have one day I opened it up and took it apart a software configuration issue. I’ve been entirely! Then my dad came home from researching the problem for a couple of work and he was a bit mad at me. But months now and it’s very frustrating. I then—he’s really into computers too—he can’t find any information about what’s explained all the different parts to me. wrong. We’re going to have a free week in Ever since then I’ve been hooked. I ended Robotics Club next week so I’m going to up building my own computer after that. bring my drone in to see if my teammates “When I was building my computer, can help with the problem. I’m really it took about two months of research excited to see my drone fly and I just because I wanted to build something need to figure out this one last problem. really nice that wouldn’t mess up at all. It’s probably the flight controller that’s I ordered all the parts, put everything causing my problem, but I’ve read the together, and then it was the moment entire manual three times and I’m just not of truth: I pushed the button to start it getting the configuration right. up, and the computer didn’t work! My “I’m also really into cars and fasci- dad and I checked everything and we nated by auto-drive cars. Once all the couldn’t find the problem. We narrowed cars on the road are auto-drive, forget it down to two different parts and then about 65 miles an hour. They’ll all be replaced them and the computer still going 200 miles an hour because the didn’t work. So we did more research. cars will be able to communicate with We noticed that the computer’s fan kept each other and they’ll be able to go at turning on and off. Finally we realized much faster speeds because there won’t that it might be a compatibility issue. be any human error. And that’s what it was. Before that “I know I’m only in the 8th grade, but problem, I don’t think I really understood I’m pretty sure I want to do something everything completely. I think I just with robotics in college. The open thought it’d be fun to build a computer. It environment at WA is really great was really good for me that my computer for me because I can just go It took didn’t work at first. Now I really know around campus and talk to any me about exactly what every single part does. I of the teachers that I want.” can build a computer in my sleep! “My sister had Mr. Smith [Peter Smith, 2 months to build Middle School math teacher] in class last year. She told him about me and my pc and it has how I’m really into technology. So this a GTX 1060 year, when I joined WA, Mr. Smith said GPU in it. it would be OK for me to join the Upper

Worcester Academy 7 innovation All-Stars

Ok so the wheels can go 1,200 rotations per We share leadership and ideas across different disciplines… minute and there are 500+ parts Meet to the robot. MAGGIE REITER, grade 11, brains, bots, and blogs

“I am one of the captains of WA’s year, it’s eggs. Last year it was foam every year we’re gaining more experi- paper issue, of course, but it’s only avail- Robotics Team and one of the editors of cubes, but it’s always the same prin- ence and learning from the year before able on campus, so it really only works The Vigornia, so I guess I’m really using ciple. It’s a very small robot—15 inches so we know how to do better. Already for students and faculty. But parents technology in two very different areas. by 15 inches by 18 inches—and we with Savage Soccer we’re seeing the and alums are interested in what we’re “As a freshman, I was a little tentative have four weeks to build it. We program building quality improve, and we’re hop- writing about as well. Putting the paper about joining the Robotics Team, but it with a very simple program called ing to do a lot better this winter. online also gives our writers a chance then I saw the movie ‘Big Hero 6’ and easyC. During winter competition, the “I love the team. Everyone gets along to have an online writing credit. So I ran that was it! I joined the Robotics Team robots get bigger and more complex. really well and we work well together. with it! I spoke with Mr. Isakson [Neil because of that movie. That freshman The robot can be 6 feet tall. We use real I love the challenge of it. It’s a great Isakson, director of external communi- year I was always a little nervous, but by motors and a big battery. It’s still a game exercise to think of a robot that can do cations] and we decided that, to begin sophomore year, I was ready to take on a but much more complex. These robots these things … make sure that what with, Facebook would be the best way to bigger role, and the rest is history! use Java or other programs. you’re thinking of is reasonable to build, start to get these articles out to parents “We have two seasons of competition. “Our team is still very young. It’s only because you can have huge ideas that and alums. So our Vigornia Facebook The fall season is much smaller in all WA’s fourth year (my first year was only you think could work out great, but then Page is up and running. Our online aspects. It’s run by WPI and it’s called the team’s second year), and other teams we don’t have the right resources or Vigornia will allow us to publish more ‘Savage Soccer.’ Each year there is a have 20 years of experience, so right off not enough experience to actually build frequently and keep everyone updated game that is announced and the robots the bat we’re at a disadvantage. But in those things. So it’s a great challenge to with breaking news. entered by competing schools must be Savage Soccer last year, we placed in the not only come up with a great idea, but “After WA, I think about studying a lot able to score points in the game. It’s top eight and made it to the quarterfi- not to overshoot the mark. of things in college: engineering, finance, always very similar, though. Your robot nals. That was very important for us. It “As an editor of The Vigornia, I’m business, politics. Engineering is prob- must be programmed to pick up specific was very exciting. In the winter compe- trying to reinvent it as a media outlet as ably my first love, though and the others items and deposit them someplace. This tition, our robot did not do so well. But well as a print piece. We still have the are interests, but you never know!”

8 the HILLTOPPER : winter/spring 2017 We charge it with professional application… Meet KAZ GRALA, grade 12, challenging physics every day of the week

NOTE: In addition to his “day job” as a high school student, Kaz is an American professional stock car racing driver. He currently competes full time in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series, driving the No. 33 Chevrolet Silverado for GMS Racing, and part time in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East for Ben Kennedy Racing, driving the No. 3 Toyota Camry.

“Information is going both ways for me my understanding of racing by taking right now, which is really pretty cool. the toughest physics classes and the I’m learning things in school that are hardest math classes that I can in the really relevant to my professional life, hopes of becoming a mechanical engi- and I’m able to bring information about neer in college. This will ultimately practical experience back to school. improve my racing understanding and, “This year, I was able to bring a of course, my racing results. professional racing engineer into “At the end of the day, I really want engineering class to talk about the to learn what I’m most interested in, engineering factors in racing. There and WA is providing that for me. My are really two main factors. First, school life and my professional life are there’s the kinematics—the way the really working together, and the school car works and the way the car estab- is absolutely providing me the means lishes grip with the geometry of the to fulfill that. In return, I bring my suspension and movement. Second, knowledge and understanding back there’s the aerodynamics. It was into the classroom.” really great because the engineer- ing class was in its aerodynamic unit and we were building a wind tunnel. My engineer was able to relate the aerodynamics of racing with what we were doing with the wind tunnel. It His truck was really pretty cool to hear it from has about his perspective. I’ve been around it 190 for most of my life, but a lot of people miles per hour, have never heard this at all—and 460 average speed especially not from the perspective of “counts” (pounds he drives someone in an industry that revolves of downforce on at Daytona around this science. It was really track at 135 mph) International cool, too, for my classmates to hear of drag in the Speedway wind tunnel Will be racing a little bit about what I do outside in the NASCAR of school. Racing, in fact, is really a Camping World complete engineering phenomenon! Truck Series “And I’m taking information back with me as well. I’m trying to better

Worcester Academy 9 Uses Book Creator with bigger, brighter fonts over

You can 10-15 pages as collaborate with needed. 2 or 3 people on it; that way it’s not too crowded when you’re working She has created on a project. 10 & 15 iBooks between this and last year.

Book Creator is always fun to experiment with, It begins with early exposure and managing your time well… and is easy to work with once you know what you’re Meet doing. ISA CINO, grade 7, an ace with an iPad

“Last year, when I was in the 6th we had some experience to share in in addition to your text to create an better because you can include video or grade, my whole class started using how to use a different technology. iBook. We just used it in Latin Class music. It was a really fun project. iPads and we were the first class Right before school began, my class- for a project. We were all assigned a “Also this year, my class was asked to use them at WA. It was really mates and I were asked to show the Greek god and we had to make a story to assist the 8th graders with iMovie. fun and we learned a lot of dif- 7th grade teachers what we knew. to tell the god’s tale. My Greek god It works similar to other apps, so we ferent apps that help make your We got their emails set up and showed was Hades and we had some rules to could help them learn the tool. schoolwork fun and interesting. them what apps work for us. We follow: You had to include your god’s “I always thought I would do “This year, the 7th grade is using recommended a list of apps and they Roman name, his or her family back- something with language or lit- iPads. All of us who were here in 6th downloaded most of them for their ground, a summary of powers, and eracy when I get older. Writing is grade were already used to using our individual classes. influence over men. I did all of this with a little different now than it used iPads, but our 7th grade teachers were “This year, we’re using an app called Book Creator. We used another tool to be, and working with an iPad new to them. They had been using Book Creator where you can use fun in 6th grade called Glogster. The end helps me learn all of the elements laptops in their classes for years, but fonts and pictures and audio recordings product looks kind of like an iBook, but of how to tell a story digitally.” SO THERE YOU HAVE IT. Ethan, Aryan, Maggie, Kaz, and Isa show us that the Hilltop is an innovation incubator, a place where students become teachers, where mistakes are valued as learning moments, where planning appropriately is part of thinking BIG, and where the reciprocity of ideas reigns supreme!

10 the HILLTOPPER : winter/spring 2017 Alumni Profile Andrew Duncan ’81 and June Pictures send three films to Sundance by Jody P. McNamara

and several Silicon Valley start-ups. on its films, and does Andrew’s past for me that you could accomplish It may not be immediately obvi- experience at Worcester Academy anything if you set your mind to it. ous, but I definitely see a connection play any role as an influencer? “From an Arts standpoint, I was a between software and film. Software “Absolutely,” laughs Andrew. piano player at WA and every time we’d is Art, in its own way, and my view “As it pertains to Joshua, Joel Strogoff go into Warner Theater, it was impos- on film is that it’s a chance for art was very big about teaching us about sible to ignore the connection to Warner to cross over into technology.” democracy and democratic values. Bros. and the movies. We had movies Andrew goes on to explain, “Film is That always stuck with me. The value on Wednesday nights, I remember, and an application that can run on many of freedom of speech and democracy they were always great movies. The one platforms right now. We run June was definitely instilled in me by Mr. that, to this day, had a huge effect on me Productions as close to a software Strogoff and others, and that experience was Mel Brooks’ Blazing Saddles. I love business as we can. Our production was certainly in the back of my mind comedy and that movie was definitely models are similar to models I used in as we documented Joshua’s struggle. a driver for me. My interest in produc- engineering. We’re diligent in allow- Incidentally, Joshua was able to join ing comedies like Fun Mom Dinner “Humble & Hungry. This is what my ing artists to create their Art, but in a us in Park City during Sundance and was absolutely instilled by watching business runs on,” says Andrew Duncan way that makes sense financially.” participated with us in a Q&A session. It Blazing Saddles in Warner Theater! ’81, CEO of June Pictures. And if you’re The formula must be working. was incredibly humbling to get that win. “I have a tremendous amount of grati- looking for a formula to run your busi- Joshua: Teenager vs. Superpower “WA’s Speaker Series also influ- tude towards WA for the lessons learned ness, sit up now and take notice. June tells the story of an unlikely dis- enced me,” Andrew continues. “We there. It all sticks with me to this day.” Pictures, founded just about a year ago, sident. As the Chinese Communist had speakers come, many of them All three of June Pictures’ Sundance had three (count ’em—THREE!) of its Party backtracks on its promise of successful Worcester Academy grads, films were purchased for distribution. films selected for screening at this year’s autonomy for Hong Kong, Joshua ral- who would speak about their profes- Expect to see Thoroughbred and Fun Sundance Film Festival. Of the three, lies thousands of Hong Kong teens to sions. The experience really reinforced Mom Dinner in theaters later this year! the documentary Joshua: Teenager vs. skip school and occupy the streets. Superpower walked away with this Thoroughbred, starring Olivia Cooke, year’s World Cinema Audience Award. Anya Taylor-Joy, and Anton Yelchin Let’s take a moment to consider what (sadly, his last role), was shot right in a truly singular accomplishment this is: Massachusetts this past May. The story Submissions to Sundance hover around revolves around two teenage girls in 15 thousand per year. Of those, under 200 suburban Connecticut who rekindle a are accepted for screening. Do the math. friendship after years of growing apart. Submissions have a less-than-2-percent In the process, they learn that neither is chance of being accepted, and June what she seems to be, and that a murder Productions screened three films at one might solve both of their problems. of the planet’s most prestigious festivals. Fun Mom Dinner, a comedy that They must be doing something right. stars Molly Shannon, Katie Aselton, We asked Andrew how he does it Toni Collette, and Bridget Everett and how his experience on The Hilltop as a group of moms whose night has helped to shape his career. out takes a serious turn. The film “I started my career in engineering, was shot in Los Angeles in June. working for EMC in Massachusetts But how does June Pictures decide The moment Andrew Duncan was announced as an award-winner at Sundance.

Worcester Academy 11 John27th HEADMASTER CREDITEDA.Bloom FOR REVIVING ACADEMY IN 1970s He ‘Fought to Keep the School Afloat’

by Neil Isakson

The Worcester Academy community of hero, but one that was entirely in love of academics, athletics, and the “Many elements of John’s academic said goodbye recently to a man who keeping with John Bloom’s determined distinctive qualities and values of WA.” and institutional vision remain inspira- many say saved the Academy during temperament, his love for WA, and It was that devotion to Worcester tional, relevant, and part of Worcester a time of turbulence in the 1970s. his laser focus on the task at hand. Academy and to his profession that Academy’s program today.” Worcester Academy’s 27th headmaster, According to Brian O’Connell ’67, led John to be selected as chair of the John’s second big act at the Academy John Bloom, died Nov. 2 from complica- who grew up on campus as the son History Department, during which came when he was tapped to become the tions related to diabetes and Parkinson’s of faculty member Andrew O’Connell, time he developed an urban affairs 27th headmaster. While a recognition of disease. He is survived by his loving John was a gifted history teacher program that viewed the city and John’s abilities, it was far from being any wife, Nancy, who was his partner in all and soccer and wrestling coach, with what it could teach students as one sort of reward for his years of service. endeavors and a source of strength for a reputation for toughness, tenac- of the Academy’s greatest assets. In those days, America was undergo- him in life, and their five children, Nadine ity, and the ability to motivate others. According to the current head of ing a period of economic decline, and (Bloom) Hill ’75, Derek Bloom, Glenn His students admired and respected school, Ron Cino, the urban affairs independent schools across the country Bloom ’79, Grant Bloom ’81, and Leigh him, as did the administration. program and John’s thinking about were not immune. Independent schools (Bloom) Cowdrick ’84. Granddaughters “John came to WA directly from under- it continue to influence the way the in New England in particular were feel- Emily Bloom ’07 and Sarah Bloom ’10 graduate studies at Brown in 1958,” Academy sees the city today. ing the pressure to reverse declining are also Academy graduates. This is Brian notes. “During the next 16 years, he “I read some of his papers from 40 enrollments or to close shop altogether. a wonderful legacy for any person. taught, coached, and served as dormitory years ago when I first assumed the At Worcester Academy, a daunting task But John Bloom was more. He was master, counselor, advisor, and mentor headship,” says Ron, whose own tenure lay before John Bloom—turning around a hero—albeit an unlikely one. Maybe to hundreds of students. He inspired in at WA’s helm has emphasized urban a then-140-year-old institution that had not a dashing Marvel Comics kind so many of them—myself included—a leadership and community engagement. suddenly, almost inexplicably, become

12 a losing proposition. Enrollment was It was ultimately John’s relentless- president of the Worcester Academy hill; the 141 year-old hill is evidence of a half of what it had been just a few years ness and tenacity—his willingness to Board of Trustees, sums up John school’s remarkable achievement. It was prior, facilities were in disrepair, and fight for WA and his ability to inspire Bloom’s tenure succinctly. in the year of 1974 that the hill almost there was talk of closing or of merging the faculty and others—combined “John was a fighter who fought to became a memory. It is now 1975, and with the struggling Bancroft School or with creative problem solving and able keep WA afloat during some very dif- W.A. still survives. This was the first Shepherd Knapp School in West Boylston. management, that enabled the Academy ficult times,” says Dave, who also recalls senior class to graduate with girls in the Enter John Bloom, the fifth to turn a corner. John took nothing for happy times playing on John’s soc- modern era, plus, there was a changed headmaster in six years. granted and worked quickly to make cer team. “He was instrumental in the day/year schedule. There were many “John was the right person at the right changes in life and learning at WA, Academy’s survival, and he deserves activities for the students with the time for Worcester Academy,” notes WA wherever it made sense, and enlisted all the credit in the world for pulling out opening of the spa, and when it came Trustee Dana Levenson ’75, whom John the entire community in the effort. all the stops to keep us going. He really time for a fund-raising drive, the entire would often drive to school from the city’s “John Bloom was one of the all-stars was very much a savior of the school.” school, students, faculty, administration, west side each morning. “He was blessed of Worcester Academy, having served And so it was that John Bloom, with and parents, joined in the drive, produc- with the intellect of a fine teacher as the school for nearly 30 years,” says the force of sheer determination, drew ing great results. This is an example well as the mind of a superb manager.” Board President Henry Dormitzer ’88. “As triumph in the face of uncertain success. of the new W.A. that has blossomed In the next 11 years, John Bloom headmaster, his leadership in the ’70s The 1975 Towers yearbook exudes with these changes. Appropriately laid the foundation for a fiscally sus- and ’80s kept the school on firm financial the optimism that followed John from enough, the theme of the 1975 Towers tainable Worcester Academy, one that footing through a challenging economic the start of his tenure to the end, and is ‘The New Worcester Academy.’ ” saw the enrollment of girls as well as situation. We are all grateful for his ultimately, led to the stability enjoyed Worcester Academy had not just boys, the growth of sizable interna- contributions and honor his memory.” today. An abridged inscription reads: blossomed, of course; it had bloomed— tional and postgraduate populations, David Forsberg ’65, former “The hill; the Worcester Academy under John Bloom, that is. and the upgrading of facilities. His efforts to open new markets took him to countries including Iran, “John was instrumental in the school’s survival, where John recognized opportuni- ties created by the unrest there. Many Iranians were looking for options to and he deserves all the credit in the world educate their children outside their country. John made sure Worcester for pulling out all the stops to keep us going.” Academy became a destination and welcomed them with open arms. —David Forsberg ’65, former president of the Board of Trustees

Worcester Academy 13 Alumni News reconnect, 2017 REUNION WEEKEND network, award recipients On Saturday, May 6, at 5 p.m., Worcester Academy will hold the Reunion Weekend Awards ceremony. Outstanding alumni will be reminisce! recipients of prestigious Hilltopper awards, and beloved retired employees will be inducted to the WA Hall of Fame. They are as follows.

Want to reconnect with classmates, faculty, and other friends? Visit us during one of our upcoming alumni events! The schedule below includes many Duncan Nicas Heller Bernstein Cotton Lefferts fun opportunities to share memories and rejuvenate fond friendships. Distinguished Alumnus: Cole Porter Arts Award Hall of Fame: Elisabeth Cotton For additional details, updates, Alan Duncan ’72 Recipient: Steven Heller ’67 Elisabeth Cotton joined the Worcester or to register, go to Alan Duncan ’72 will be awarded Steven Heller ’67 will be awarded the Academy English Department in 1985, worcesteracademy.org/register. the Distinguished Alumnus Award. Cole Porter (Class of 1909) Visual and after teaching in Holden, MA, and at A Greensboro, NC, litigation attor- Performing Arts Recognition Award. Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI). Friday, May 5, & ney, he is chair of the Guilford County Steven is a three-time Grammy-award- In 2003, she was appointed Studies Saturday, May 6 Board of Education and is very pas- winning producer-composer, whose Coordinator and AP Coordinator. Reunion Weekend sionate about public education. Alan work has spanned the full spectrum Elisabeth was the 1988 recipient of and his wife, Pamela, have estab- of audio and video production—from the O’Connell Award for Excellence lished the Paul Morano Sr. Fund at CDs and live concerts, to television and in Teaching. She retired in 2014. Saturday, May 6 WA to promote volunteer and neigh- movie scores. He has received numer- Boys Varsity Alumni borhood outreach opportunities for ous national awards for his music and Hall of Fame: Pamela Lefferts Soccer Game Worcester Academy students. recordings, including The American Pamela Lefferts will be inducted to the Library Association’s Notable Children’s Worcester Academy Hall of Fame. A Young Alumnus: Charles Nicas ’02 Recording Award, various Parent’s Choice member of the boarding school com- Saturday, June 3 Charles Nicas ’02 will be awarded the Awards, and Grammys for his production munity for 28 years, Pam served at Girls Varsity Alumnae Young Alumnus Award. Charles is a of David Holt’s CD of the popular children’s Worcester Academy as Director of Soccer Game research fellow at the Hoover Institution, story, “Stellaluna,” and most recently for Student Life and Community Service, Stanford University, where he special- engineering and production of “Legacy,” as well as Director of Residential Monday, June 5 izes in topics relating to democracy, featuring Doc Watson and David Holt. Life. From 2004-2014, Pamela led Rowe Golf Scholarship Classic international security, and U.S. foreign the Global Relations Program and policy. Since 2011, he has worked closely Hall of Fame: Marsha Bernstein has traveled extensively worldwide, © Oleg Golovnev/Shutterstock.com with Condoleezza Rice, serving most Marsha Bernstein will be inducted to the raising both friends and funds. The To host an event or to suggest recently as her chief of research. He has Worcester Academy Hall of Fame. Marsha Worcester Academy Pamela Lefferts an event location, or for more published case studies on political risk worked at Worcester Academy from 1985 Cultural Exchange Award was estab- information, call the and the global economy through the until 2012. A beloved admissions officer, lished in her honor in 2014. Worcester Academy Alumni Team Stanford Graduate School of Business she specialized in international recruit- at 508-754-5302 extension 181. and Harvard Business School Press. ment and expanded Worcester Academy’s international admission program.

14 the HILLTOPPER : winter/spring 2017 alumni news

SWIM GATHERING FETES Barbara Gould Jim and Sue Mulholland P’15 spearheaded the effort to establish the Barbara F. Gould Varsity Swim Coach Fund, to honor Barbara Gould’s work. They celebrated the swim team’s legacy at WA with Barbara Liz Tripp ’07, Chris Devine ’06, John Anderson ’07, and Sam Tripp ’10 and with their son, Robert ’15, at a Nov. 26 event in Daniels Gym. Washington, D.C. hometown gathering

WA alumni caught up with retired faculty members Peter Roberts and Mike Mallett at the Biergarten Haus in Washington, D.C., this past August. Peter Roberts and Sarah Metz Krissoff ’04

Casey Zuraitis ’09, Liz Tripp ’07, and Peter Rawinski ’08 at the September alumni Thanksgiving reception reception at British Beer Co. in Worcester.

There were more than 70 alumni and friends at this year’s Thanksgiving Eve event. The class with WA staff member Kevin Zifcak with alumni the biggest attendance was 2012. Pictured are, Pete White ’09, Mike White ’10, and Class of 2012 alumni Mason Clemence, Ashley from left, Chelsey To, Courtney Rose Dykeman- Adrienne Anderson ’10 at the Thanksgiving Waddell, Michael Lifshitz, and Emily Doherty. Bermingham, Amanda Ghalibaf, and Raji Pyda. Eve reception at Whiskey on Water. Luke Vaillancourt ’01 and Bill Littleton ’73, P’06.

Worcester Academy 15 alumni news New

York City If your class year Reunion Alumni and friends gathered at The ends in a “7” or a “2,” Players in NYC. Hosts Chuck Vassallo plan to attend s ’77 and Gifford Booth welcomed Head of School Ron Cino, Broadway and Reunion Weekend television actress Jessica Phillips ’89, and retired faculty members Diana on May 5–6, 2017! Canterbury and Peter Roberts.

From left, Malcolm Evans ’09, Hailey Gordon, ’11, Esther Mann ’11, Michal Grabias ’11, and guest Addie Fleron. s7

Jessica Phillips ’89, and retired faculty member Diana Canterbury P’02. 2 From left, Jonathan Kaufman ’07, Chin-Chen Lee ’01, and retired faculty member Peter Roberts. 2017 16 the HILLTOPPER : winter/spring 2017 on the HILLTOP

Rachel Rios ’08 BACK AT HOME ON THE HILLTOP by Jody P. McNamara “One of the things I really want to instill in my students is the importance of community, and I think my return to Worcester Academy speaks to that. I want my students to know, as I do, that we always have a place on the Hilltop.”

We couldn’t have put it better! program. It’s called Globalization and Timing, they say, is everything, and its Discontent. WA always encour- that adage couldn’t be truer than in the ages its students to think globally, and return of Rachel Rios to WA in 2016. this course teaches students about the Every once in a while, the stars align different types of globalization: politi- and the right person is in the right place cal, economic, cultural. We also cover at the right time. Rachel has brought some of the problems with globaliza- both her passion and her expertise to tion while understanding the role of played varsity basketball and soccer at Academy teachers were asking, Why? our students, teaching AP Western the United States and other western WA and continued as a varsity basket- How come? Those critical thinking skills Government & Politics as well as institutions in a global context.” ball player at Trinity. I spent my junior were definitely an asset to me, and I Economics to Upper School students. And where did Rachel first acquire semester abroad at the University of acquired those skills here at WA.” After graduating from Trinity this enthusiasm for Global Studies? Capetown in South Africa and even had “I’m excited to be here,” Rachel College in 2012 with a BA in pub- “Dan Dagenais was my AP Gov an opportunity to play basketball there.” concludes. “I want my students to lic policy and law, Rachel headed teacher at WA, and that was really the Rachel is a perfect fit, all the way understand that history is not a stag- to Vermont for a four-year teach- springboard for my passion. My own WA down to educational philosophy. nant set of facts. The study of history ing stint at St. Johnsbury Academy, experience was certainly a good one, so “Worcester Academy values instill- gives us meaningful answers about also a day and boarding school. that left me open to coming back. I got ing 21st-century skills in its students. how to approach our present. Since “I had the privilege to teach what my ‘leg up’ here, and now I’ll be giving Topping the list of skills, I think, is critical our present is always shifting and I’m an expert in,” Rachel tells us. that ‘leg up’ to other Hilltoppers as well.” thinking. This essential has always been changing, the questions we ask about “Here at WA I’m doing the same.” Rachel’s passions don’t stop with at the forefront of WA’s teaching philoso- our past shift and change as well. I And she is an expert. While at St. global studies. She has brought her phy. I remember loving the fact that, even want my students to use history as a Johnsbury, Rachel began coursework at athleticism back to the Hilltop as well. “I as young as 7th grade, my Worcester tool to help us face the future.” Dartmouth College for a master’s degree in Globalization Studies. She is complet- “I want my students to understand that history is not a stagnant set of facts. ing her thesis while teaching at WA. “It’s really my passion,” Rachel The study of history gives us meaningful answers about how to elaborates. “In addition to AP Gov and approach our present. Since our present is always shifting and changing, Economics, I’m teaching an elective the questions we ask about our past shift and change as well. that I developed based on my master’s I want my students to use history as a tool to help us face the future.”

Worcester Academy 17 3RD ANNUAL cultural heritage celebration

The Academy held its third Annual Heritage Dinner in Daniels Gym in October. The dinner featured foods from around the globe as WA celebrated the rich and diverse cultural, ethnic, and national heritages that make up the WA community. Thanks to everyone who brought a potluck dish to share!

18 the HILLTOPPER : winter/spring 2017 on the hilltop

STUDENTS VISIT FROM Haderslev Katedralskole in Denmark

Students from Haderslev Katedralskole visited Worcester Academy last fall, teaching classes in the Upper and Middle Schools and staying with WA students in their homes. The Danish students also taught Middlers the finer points of playing handball, a popular sport in Denmark. The students from WA mirrored the experience by visiting Haderslev, Denmark, a few weeks later.

day of activism UN-CONFERENCE

WA’s Activists and Allies Club proudly hosted a “Day of Activism Un-Conference” in October. Student attendees from throughout the region considered “The Power of Youth: Enabling Change in and Beyond School Environments.” What a great opportunity to partner with like-minded independent schools committed to equity, justice, and youth empowerment!

Worcester Academy 19 new Worcester Academy trustees WILL HADDAD ’92 Securities Division. He has dealt with firm’s portfolio of technology companies Will Haddad is a partner with the firm issues related to shareholder complaints, on a range of marketing issues, including of Pasquarello | Fink LLC in Boston. A private equity investor disputes, profes- company and product launches, position- veteran litigator and problem solver, he sional services agreements, merger and ing, demand creation, influencer relations, represents companies and individuals in joint venture agreements, and non-compete and go-to-market strategies. Before CRV, complex commercial litigation and gov- and non-solicitation agreements. He Mrs. O’Leary served as vice president of ernmental investigations. Mr. Haddad is has defended clients in criminal cases, marketing for Novera Software, which was well acquainted with investment advisory, including witnesses and defendants in later sold to IBM, and held various product broker-dealer, and private fund sectors of matters alleging securities and bank marketing and communications roles for the financial services industry, though cli- fraud, health care fraud, defense procure- RSA Security, where she helped position the ents come from many industries, including ment fraud, and public corruption. He has company as an enterprise security leader. health care, biopharma, social media, and experience in whistleblower matters. She began her career at Creamer Dickson aerospace/defense. Mr. Haddad writes about securi- Basford (now Havas PR), an international Prior to joining Pasquarello | Fink, ties litigation topics at The Securities public relations agency, where she was Mr. Haddad was a partner at Beck Reed Litigator, a periodical journal. a founding member of the firm’s technol- Riden LLP in Boston. He previously prac- ogy practice. During her tenure at the ticed at New York’s Shearman & Sterling MEG O’LEARY P’20 firm, she served as account manager for LLP and Boston’s Collora LLP. Meg O’Leary is co-founder of InkHouse, a leading technology companies, includ- A 1992 graduate of Worcester Academy, public relations and social media agency ing Digital Equipment Corp., NYNEX, Mr. Haddad was a standout English with offices in Boston and San Francisco. and Panasonic. Meg’s work on behalf and French student who won academic Named “Agency of the Year” twice by PR of her clients has been recognized with prizes in both subject areas. He was a News and the “Fastest Growing Agency in numerous industry awards, including letter winner and member of the Varsity the Country” by Bulldog Reporter, InkHouse an Anvil Award (the “Oscar” of public Club. He played JV and varsity tennis. serves clients ranging from Salesforce and relations programming) from the Public Following graduation from WA, Harvard University, to MIT and Toyota, Relations Society of America, as well Mr. Haddad went to Georgetown and more than two dozen others. as Bell Ringer and Bulldog Awards. University, receiving bachelor’s degrees Her daughter, Tess, is a member of the in history and economics in 1996. He Class of 2020 at Worcester Academy. SUSAN PURYEAR P’19,’21 received a Master of Studies from Oxford Mrs. O’Leary received a B.A. from Susan Puryear is director of the Office of in Medieval Historical Research in 1998 Providence College and a M.A. from Clark Research Administration (ORA) at the and a law degree from Duke University University. She has extensive experience University of Massachusetts-Lowell, one of Law School in 2001. From 2001 to 2003, he in positioning and marketing new innova- the nation’s top public research universi- served as a law clerk to the Hon. Ernest tions across a number of technology market ties. Under her leadership, ORA provides C. Torres in the United States District segments, including consumer technology, assistance to faculty and research staff Court in Rhode Island and, prior to that, business-to-business e-commerce, enter- in all aspects of obtaining and managing as an extern in the prosecutor’s office prise software, and web/online services. external research funding. Previously, she of the war crimes court for the former She has tackled the challenge on both the was director of sponsored programs and Yugoslavia, located in the Netherlands. agency and client side. She has a passion research at Clark University in Worcester. Mr. Haddad has handled civil litiga- for launching innovations with a goal of Ms. Puryear’s daughters, Mykah tion involving all manner of commercial connecting target audiences with mes- Puryear DeMeulenaere and Tyla Puryear disputes and has appeared in state and sages that will inspire them to act. DeMeulenaere, are members of the federal courts, as well as various govern- Prior to founding InkHouse, she was classes of 2019 and 2021, respectively. ment and industry forums, including those part of Charles River Ventures and its A graduate of Yale University with a of the SEC, FINRA, and Massachusetts CRVelocity services. She consulted to the bachelor’s in history (1992), Ms. Puryear

20 the HILLTOPPER : winter/spring 2017 on the hilltop achieving the honorable SCHOOL MOTTO IS TOPIC OF ANNUAL BOARD OF VISITORS MEETING earned her master’s in Administration, by Marillyn Earley Planning and Social Policy from Harvard Graduate School of Education Achieving the Honorable was the topic provost of Clark University and phi- Young, History and Social Sciences; (1996), and a Juris Doctor degree from of the day for the 2016 Annual Meeting of losophy scholar, provided the keynote Jack Haringa ’86 P’22, English; and Dr. Stanford Law School (2002). She was the Worcester Academy Board of Visitors. address considering the role honor has Anthony Butler, interim director of the a corporate legal assistant in bank- On Nov. 4, nearly 100 members—includ- played in society, both historically and Middle School, who served as moderator. ing and institutional investing with ing Worcester Academy alumni, parents, in modern times. Six members of the The members of the Board of Visitors Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom parents of alumni, and Worcester com- Worcester Academy faculty addressed also participated in discussion groups in New York City from 1992 to 1994. munity and education leaders—met to the group in response to questions of that addressed questions of the role honor From 1994 to 2008, Ms. Puryear explore the topic of honor, its historical how the school teaches honor within the plays in establishing and preserving provided consulting services in entre- context, its place in modern society, and curriculum. Faculty members included communities, in decision making, and in preneurship and business development, how WA faculty teach and reinforce hon- Dr. Timothy Markey, World Languages; creating and managing conflict. These program design and development, orable behavior. Gladys Vasquez, World Languages; Patty were very dynamic discussions and were fundraising and development, and Dr. Davis Baird, vice president and Theodosopoulos P’17,’20, Science; James the highlight of the day for most. research and education. Clients included Baruch College, the Interracial Council for Business Opportunity, Policy Analysis for California Education, ReadBoston, Renaissance Parents of Success, San Francisco Independent Scholars: Pacific Research Institute, and the Yale Black Alumni Network. She co-authored the report, “School Choice: Abundant Hopes, Scarce Evidence of Results,” published by the Stanford University-based Policy Analysis for California Education. She A keynote address by Davis Baird, is president of the board of N-CITE provost and VP for Academic Affairs at Community Media in Worcester, a mem- Clark University, prompted thoughtful Worcester Academy faculty panelists discussed how honor is taught throughout all disciplines. discussions during the afternoon. ber of the California Bar, and a former member of the boards of the Habitot Children’s Museum, The Avenues Project: East Oakland Community High School, the Institutional Review Board at Clark University, and the Grant Review Board for the Ensuring Children’s Readiness for School Programs at the United Way of Central Massachusetts. Ms. Puryear has been an active parent at WA, serving on the Board of Visitors, the WA Heritage Dinner Planning Committee, and acting as a strong advocate for issues related to Board of Visitors member Michael Coady ’89 lists the Stacie Lavine P’16,’18, Ed Sherr ’84, and Peter Hamilton ’93, diversity, equity, and inclusion. most honorable traits in a person described by his group. all BoV members, enjoyed discussing honor this year.

Worcester Academy 21 election Former Lieutenant Governor Tim Murray FESTIVAL 2016

On Nov. 8, Worcester Academy held an Election Festival to celebrate and learn about the sig- nificance of Election Day in America. A group of student leaders from the Debate Club and the Politics Club led an assembly discussing the important issues in the election and where each party stood. Students then attended workshops on a variety of topics, including the effect of the election on the Supreme Court; where each party stood on climate change; the role of Hispanic voters in the election; and many more issues. Students also participates in a mock election in their advisory groups.

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Dave Forsberg ’65, campaign manager for Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker

22 the HILLTOPPER : winter/spring 2017 on the hilltop

ENTREPRENEURSHIP CLASS VISITS Polar beverages

Stephanie Jackson ’07 and her Worcester Academy Accounting & Entrepreneurship class had a wonderful experience visiting Worcester- based Polar Beverages last fall. Chris Crowley, executive vice president and treasurer of Polar, gave the class a firsthand look at the 134-year-old family-owned business. The close-up learning experience included a tour of the production floor, assembly line, warehouse, and board room. Of course, Polar Beverages (and the company mascot, Orson) were always at hand, especially the flavored seltzers. Many thanks to Chris Crowley and Polar for the opportunity they provided to our students!

veterans day SPEAKERS

Three veterans shared their stories with Worcester Academy students for Veterans Day. Speaking to the community were Captain Bryan Buckley ’00, a former Marine and Bronze Star recipient; Major Joshua Goodrich, father of WA’s Emily Goodrich ’19 and a Massachusetts Army National Guardsman who served in the Middle East; and Academy history teacher Ray LaRose, who served overseas in the U.S. Army. Ray is grandparent to WA students Loch ’17 and Grey Baillie ’23.

Worcester Academy 23 on the hilltop da Vinci EXHIBIT

The entire Worcester Academy community traveled to the Boston Museum of Science on Dec. 1 to see “Leonardo da Vinci—The Genius!” The goal of the visit was to inspire students as they explored the mind and ideas of one of the world’s greatest thinkers and assist them in making connections back to the Academy curriculum. While the da Vinci exhibit was the focal point for WA students, the Museum of Science as a whole piqued students’ curiosities and helped them consider ways to unlock their own creative genius.

24 the HILLTOPPER : winter/spring 2017 news from Worcester Academy middle school the middle: middle school day of service

In September, the entire Worcester Academy Middle School spent a day providing community service to 10 different agencies and organizations throughout the city of Worcester. The Day of Service was designed as a way to positively respond to tragedies such as 9/11, as well as to teach students that they have something to learn by engaging in community service. According to Middle School Director Anthony Butler, reaching out to others is a natural response in times of local or national stress. ”While some of our Worcester Academy students were born after this date, we shall always remind our community of 9/11,” Mr. Butler said. “Moreover, we will respond. 9/11 is a Worcester Academy Middle School students at the Be-Like-Brit Haitian relief organization in Worcester.

call to arms, hands, legs, and heart. community service funds. The funds It is a call to see, hear, and work.” allow students to impact a wide variety Students provided service at many of communities and causes. In the locations including Friendly House, Upper School, community service is a St. John’s Soup Kitchen, Be-Like- requirement for graduation, and more Brit, Children’s Friend, the WA than a third of seniors receive the Community Playground, Sherry’s President’s Volunteer Service Award. House, and Nativity School. Over the past seven years, WA students At Worcester Academy, students have provided more than 23,000 hours regularly engage in service learning with of community service. support from the Academy’s endowed

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Worcester Academy 25 from the archives THE HISTORY OF WA’S SOUTH CAMPUS PROPERTY by Frank R. Callahan ’71

Worcester Academy’s South Campus, currently the French and Indian Wars. Late in 1703, the fam- site of Morse Field and the Performance Center, ily was ordered to vacate their farm, but Digory was the site of several major chapters in the history refused to leave. Soon thereafter, a young Indian of Worcester. Here are the details. squaw visited the family and pleaded for them to The South Campus is located at the northern end go, but Digory ignored her. of a hill that starts at the Worcester train station Not long after the visit, the chief of the and goes south to the city line abutting the town Pakachoag, Sagamore John, and some braves of Millbury. The northern end is called Union Hill, arrived in the middle of a snowstorm and sur- while the remaining slope is called Vernon Hill rounded the house. Digory fired his musket and the Mariemont, about 1865, shortly after it was built (where Gaskill Field is located). Indians returned fire. When Digory was wounded, The original name for the hill on which South they rushed the cabin, killed him with tomahawks Campus is located is the Algonquin word and scalped him. They kidnapped Martha and the Music room at Mariemont, facing northwest Sagatabscot, or “Hill of Rocks.” That name was five children and set out for the western edge of significant to the native tribes because the hill today’s Worcester. Along the way, Martha com- is mostly schist (Greek, meaning “to split”). This plained she was too feeble to go on, which slowed was important for the local tribes as it was easy to the pace. When the party reached the Tetasset Hills divide to make arrowheads or to fashion utensils. (now called Tatnuck), a chief stepped out of the file The local Indian settlement that resided around and, as Martha passed, he slammed a tomahawk Sagatabscot was the Pakachoag, whose lives were into the back of her head, killing her instantly. disrupted by the arrival of the English settlers in Soon after the attack, 12 soldiers led by Captain 1673. Those settlers were driven away two years Howe arrived at the cabin. Its door was wide open later during King Philip’s War, the first of five French and inside they found Digory’s bloodied body. The and Indian Wars. A few years later, a King Philip’s moccasin prints of the Indians were all over, so they veteran, Digory Sargent, purchased an 80-acre set out after the attackers. However, the snowfall parcel here, and with his wife, Martha, and five was so heavy that, by then, the Indians’ tracks had children, he built in a garrison house on this site. been covered. After a while, Captain Howe and his The Sargents lived in peace until the outbreak of men returned to the cabin for shelter. In the mean- the Queen’s Anne’s War in 1702, the second of the time, another party of six Indians came to plunder

The greenhouse with Elizabeth Gable, showing octagonal potting shed at left

New greenhouse, laundry, and boiler house, about 1904

Round pool 26 the HILLTOPPER : winter/spring 2017 from the archives

and burn the cabin. When they sighted the return- lasted only about a decade, while the water side of Providence Street. All of them attended ing soldiers, they hid in the cellar under a trap door. impoundments created for its locks provided a Worcester Academy, and J.E.D Jones, Class of Entering the cabin, the soldiers spread a blanket steady supply of water as the source of power to 1888, was the captain of the first WA tennis team. over the door and spent the night. They left the next turn mill wheels. Soon, Worcester became an early Jed went on to become a pioneer in early American morning not knowing that the Indians had been center for the American Industrial Revolution. By the tennis. A relative who lived with him was Edward hiding beneath them. 1870s, the mills created great wealth and the factory Davis Jones, Class of 1873, co-founder of the Wall The Sargent children were taken to Canada owners built large homes along Providence Street. Street Journal and the Jones in Dow Jones. and ransomed. After the conflict, three returned The most notable was built by George Crompton, In 1953, the family sold Mariemount to the Roman to Massachusetts, but two chose to remain up the founder of the Crompton Loom Works. A gifted Catholic Diocese of Worcester, and the mansion was north. One who returned, Martha, married Daniel inventor, he was granted more than 100 patents, demolished to make way for the second location Shattuck and lived on the land until they sold it to which revolutionized the textile industry. The of St. Vincent Hospital. Over the years, thousands Jonas Rice in 1713. Rice was the first permanent Crompton Loom Works was located near the Canal of Worcester families were treated in this hospital. settler and a nearby monument commemorates on Green Street. In 1853, George Crompton mar- Along with all the births, deaths, and healing of Rice’s farm. One of the Sargent children who ried Mary Christina Pratt, who had spent her early other local families, Worcester Academy has had remained in Canada changed his name to Louis- years in London. Their family grew to nine children, hundreds of its own connections to St. Vincent. In Philippe Langlais and a few years ago, some family creating the need for a large home, so he acquired 2000, the hospital moved to downtown Worcester members stopped by Worcester Academy and about a dozen acres of land at the southern edge and over the past decade Worcester Academy has introduced themselves to Head of School Ron Cino. of Union Hill. He named it Mariemount in honor of purchased the former hospital campus. They commented that that they felt honored that Mary, and it was a Tudor design because of her Today, the only remnant of the past is the granite their ancestral home was now a school. love of England. There were horse stables and other wall that extends along Winthrop and Providence In the 1830s, the Blackstone Canal spurred the facilities on the estate such as a greenhouse for the streets. Though there is nothing that shows the growth of Worcester, making the hilltop land more gardens, a laundry, and power plant. site’s great history, I agree with the Langlais family valuable. Still a barren outcropping, the owners of One of the Crompton daughters brought the who came down from Canada to say that it is an the hill had a vision of developing it into a neigh- European sport of tennis back to Mariemount. A honor that this land is now a school. borhood of fine residences. However, its Indian tennis court was built on the estate and the family name was not appealing, so the owner chose a believed it to be the first in Worcester. Three of Frank Callahan is Worcester Academy’s patriotic term: Union Hill. Crompton’s sons regularly played tennis with the director of planned giving and the school’s The heyday of Blackstone Canal in Worcester sons of the Jones family, who lived on the opposite unofficial historian.

Drawing room Stable at Mariemont, built around 1875

Georgietta F. Crompton and her brother, George, in a gig, with horses in tandem, on the grounds at Mariemont

Worcester Academy 27 28 theHILLTOPPER :winter/spring 2017

WAwhen playingboth wasnotuncommon. offensiveanddefensive abilities—hence,“thethrowback”—referencingCross atime inthefootball andhis“two-way” The30For17 yearsofexceptionalservice. film recounts Gordie’s 30Short remarkable career attheCollegeofHoly Gordon ’08andOlivia’16,graduated from WA, retired headvarsitywresting coachlastyearfollowing astheAcademy’s coach Gordie Lockbaumis thesubjectofanewESPNdocumentary, Throwback.” “The Gordie, whosechildren, Two-time finalistfortheHeisman Trophy (1986and1987) recently retired Worcester Academy varsitywrestling subject ofESPN film former WA coachandparent ATHLETICSHeisman finalist, ESPN.com video on watch the page to scan this WA athletics ice hockey teams to call new Worcester sports center home by Neil R. Isakson

Worcester Academy signed an agree- expand its footprint in Worcester and ment to become the first high school to be involved in the continued growth anchor tenant at the new Worcester of the Canal District right down the hill Sports Center, with WA’s boys and from campus,” said Ron Cino. “Most girls ice hockey teams to maintain importantly, this venture allows us to team rooms there. The Academy provide a top-notch practice and play- signed a long-term use and occu- ing facility for our hockey teams that is pancy license for 2017–2018—the within walking distance. Our partner- inaugural season for the facility, which ship will benefit not only our student is currently under construction. athletes, but their families and our com- Worcester Academy’s long-term com- munity as a whole.” mitment will provide the Academy with The Worcester Sports Center will full-service restaurant, concessions, from the East Coast to the Midwest. permanent locker rooms for both teams be a 100,000-square-foot twin sheet and ancillary tenants. The Worcester “The Worcester Academy agreement in the center, while allowing its teams ice facility that will house youth, high Sports Center will be professionally further emphasizes our commitment that to practice daily and play home games school, and collegiate players, as well operated and managed by Edge Sports this is a community resource built for minutes from campus in Worcester. as a strength and conditioning cen- Group, providing programming and the student-athletes of Worcester,” said “Worcester Academy is thrilled to ter, physical therapy center, pro shop, operations for recreational facilities WSC’s managing partner, Cliff Rucker. scoreboard Globe fall 2016 all-stars teams wins losses ties Varsity Boys Cross Country 9 4 and all-scholastic Varsity Girls Cross Country 10 2 Middle School Field Hockey 5 3 1 Sam Hatem ’16 of Northborough was named a Varsity Field Hockey 11 4 2 2016 Boston Globe Boys Soccer All-Scholastic. Varsity Football 2 6 In Worcester Academy’s march to a 19–2 JV Football 2 1 mark and the NEPSAC Class A final, the senior midfielder racked up a team-leading 20 JV Boys Soccer 7 3 goals and 10 assists. The NEPSAC offensive JV Girls Soccer 3 7 MVP and NSCAA all-region selection will Middle Boys Soccer 8 4 attend Columbia. Varsity Boys Soccer 19 2 Worcester Academy juniors Gabrielle A. Varsity Girls Soccer 18 1 Diodati of Mendon and Jonathan L. Wolf of JV Volleyball 9 10 Hopkinton were named to Globe NEPSAC Varsity Volleyball 3 16 Soccer All-Star Teams.

Worcester Academy 29 Jordan Lucas ’12 joins Miami Dolphins

Jordan Lucas ’12 has joined the roster of the Miami Dolphins as a safety. A standout at Worcester Academy, Jordan played college football at Penn State. He was drafted 204th overall in the sixth round of the 2016 NFL Draft. Congratulations, Jordan!

seniors sign letters of intent

Fourteen WA seniors signed NCAA National Letters of Intent, affirming their decisions to attend top colleges offering athletic grant in aid. Among them were six members of the WA base- ball team: Brendan Conley of Bristol, Rhode Island (University of Buffalo), Craig Corliss of Hopkinton (Siena), Pat Gallagher of Worcester (Wagner), Brendan Powicki of Lynn (Stonehill), Mariano Ricciardi of West Boylston (Florida Atlantic), and Joe Sacco of Shrewsbury (University of Rhode Island). Also signing were track and field athlete Christa Moore of Hubbardston (Holy Cross); basketball player Madeline Murphy of Norton (Southern New Hampshire); football players Brian Abosi (UMass), Cullen McCarty (Assumption College), and Mason Wallace (Assumption); and soccer players Gabby Diodati (Fairfield), Elysia Paolillo (University of Maryland-Baltimore

WA students who signed NCAA Letters of Intent in the November signing period. County) and Ali Sanft (AIC).

30 the HILLTOPPER : winter/spring 2017 WA athletics Naismith record breaking basketball season accomplishments include the following: hall of fame boys varsity soccer >> NEPSAC Class A Finalists honors Worcester Academy’s Dee Rowe ’47 >> WNEPSSA Class A Championship with Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award >> WNEPSSA Class A Sportsmanship Award (WA was the first team to win both the Legendary WA coach and athletic director Donald E. to the Sweet 16 in 1976. His success at UConn laid the WNEPSSA Sportsmanship Award and “Dee” Rowe ’47 has been awarded the John W. Bunn foundation for the university to become the basketball Championship in same season) Lifetime Achievement Award from America’s Naismith powerhouse it is today. >> WA Boys Soccer Ranked 6th Nationally Basketball Hall of Fame. Dee, who turned 89 this year, serves as assistant to >> Sam Hatem ’17 Team MVP; Previous Bunn Award winners include Red Auerbach, the head of school at Worcester Academy. His legacy Boston Globe All Scholastic Prep Private MVP Bob Cousy, Dave Gavitt, and John Wooden. at WA also includes the Rowe Family Scholarship and NSCAA All New England Dee, who was assistant coach for the 1980 U.S. Fund, established in 1998 to honor his devotion to the >> Sam Hatem & Jonathan Wolf Mens Olympic Basketball Team, led the Hilltoppers to Academy. Sixty students have benefitted from the fund Massachusetts All State Prep Team 9 Prep School titles as well as having led the Huskies since the scholarship’s inception. >> Ivan Sebuffo ’17 & Michael Symecko ’17 NEPSAC Senior All Stars Congratulations, Dee, we’re glad that your contributions to sport and sportsmanship are being recognized, >> Owen Krisak ’18 & Graham Brenner ’18 and that Worcester Academy is able to count you among our most storied Hilltoppers! NEPSAC Junior All Stars >> Ivan Sebuffo, Sam Hatem and Jonathan Wolf ’17 WNEPSSA Select Team >> Coach Proctor NSCAA Massachusetts Breakfast • Lunch • Golf Carts • Prizes • Cocktail Reception & Dinner • Hole-in-One Prize • Not a golfer? Please join us for dinner. Prep Coach of the Year

June 5, 2017 girls varsity soccer >> NEPSAC Class A Finalists Save the Date! >> Undefeated regular season to earn girls coveted Silver Bowls; 18 wins and 83 goals scored Join alumni and friends of Worcester Academy as they “tee it up with >> Consistently ranked in top 10 nationally Dee” to benefit the Rowe Family Scholarship Fund on Monday, June 5 in prep league polls at Worcester Country Club. This special endowed scholarship fund was >> Three students signed NCAA National established in 1998 by Worcester Academy alumni, colleagues, and friends Letters of Intent: Gabby Diodati ’17 (Fairfield), of the Rowe family as a lasting tribute to Academy alumnus Donald E. “Dee” Rowe ’47 and his family. This fund awards scholarships annually Elysia Paolillo ’17 (University of Maryland- to students of outstanding character who, in addition to participation in Baltimore County) and Ali Sanft ’17 (AIC) athletics, exhibit strong leadership both at school and in the community. >> Niloufar Asdigha ’18 and Gabby Diodati each scored a record 20 goals >> Gabby Diodati—record 55 points in a season >> Gabby Diodati—Boston Globe NEPSAC Invitations will be mailed in April. For more information, call Ursula Arello at 508-459-6927, or email [email protected]. Soccer All-Star Team

Worcester Academy 31 COMMUNITY CELEBRATES THE SUCCESSFUL CONCLUSION OF ONWARD: the campaign for Worcester Academy

Donors, campaign staff, and friends outdoor space, where hors d’oeuvres Ronald M. Cino said. “The ONWARD James Pietro ’81 agreed. of the Academy celebrated the suc- and desserts were served. campaign has provided us with the “The success of the ONWARD cessful conclusion of a $52.2 million The highlight of the event was a opportunity to reimagine the way we campaign marks a historic milestone in capital campaign—ONWARD: The performance by WA alumnus and NBC teach, engage, and inspire our students, the history of our 182-year-old school,” Campaign for Worcester Academy— Last Comic Standing’s Alingon Mitra ’04. solidifying Worcester Academy’s place Mr. Pietro said. “As ‘ONWARD’ implies, with a gala event at the Worcester “We are so grateful to the many as a leading educational institution this is a step—a dramatic one—toward Academy Performance Center in alumni, parents, foundation partners, and bringing us closer to achieving redefining what an urban college October. Those gathered celebrated community, and other friends who our goal of becoming the best urban preparatory experience can be. I, along in an elegantly adorned perfor- helped us attain and exceed our goal,” independent school in the country.” with everyone in the Academy commu- mance center and equally elegant Worcester Academy Head of School WA trustee and campaign chair nity, look forward to what’s next!”

32 the HILLTOPPER : winter/spring 2017 “Gift tags” located at various WA buildings and spaces recognized those individuals and families whose commitments to Worcester Academy have had an impact. COMMUNITY CELEBRATES GIVING TUESDAY

On Nov. 29, Worcester Academy cel- ebrated Giving Tuesday, a national day of giving back, for the fourth consecutive year! Thanks to a $20,000 challenge gift from a generous trustee, alumni and friends of the Academy were encouraged to make their own gifts to WA, allowing us to once again have a successful fundraising day on campus! Our students learned about the role philanthropy plays on cam- pus and launched service projects of their own at an all-school assembly. On our campus, giving and giving back are the themse all year long!

Worcester Academy 33 parents/grandparents

PARENT ANNUAL FUND signathon

The Parent Annual Fund kicked off on Oct. 6 with a reception and dinner at our annual Signathon. Following a social hour, parents heard from Head of School Ron Cino and other parents about the importance of giving, made their own gifts or pledges to this year’s Annual Fund, and signed letters asking other parents to join them by supporting this year’s fund. All gifts to the Annual Fund support today’s school commu- nity and students, and we are proud of, and grateful for, parent support! grandparents day 2016

On Oct. 14, more than 400 grandparents and students filled the Rowe Court of the Daniels Gymnasium for that perennial favorite—Grandparents Day! Grandparents (and “grandfriends,” in some instances!) enjoyed lunch, class visits, and a presentation on WA life held in Warner Theater. What a wonderful day for our students to share with these special guests!

34 the HILLTOPPER : winter/spring 2017 in

55th Reunion 1942 1956 1962 May 5–6, 2017

The library at the Marine Museum at Fall River was named in honor of TOM COTTRELL and his wife, Margot. Tom received the Florence Cook Brigham Award from the Fall River Historical Society on Oct. 13 for making sig- nificant contributions to the Society and the greater Fall River community through preservation efforts, con- siderable historical donations, and DICK WOTRUBA is enjoying sail- volunteerism. The Cottrells, with three ing with his wife, Patricia, on their generations of WA alumni in their fam- sailboat. They live in Santa Barbara, ily, have made important impacts on CA, and wrote a book called “Into the their hometown communities. Blue” after a five-year voyage around the world. Dick is very grateful for all of the memories and support from WA. GEORGE STRAIT wrote: “I thought you might like to know that the Academy is He has enjoyed following the careers of prominently mentioned in the Smithsonian’s new National Museum of African American many of his classmates and sends an History and Culture. The museum reached out to several well-known Americans and open invitation to them to take a sail asked them to write short impressionistic essays about their personal journeys through 1950 on his boat. race based on place. I wrote three; one concerns WA and my first day as a new freshman (1958), the only black student in the school, and the first black student to attend for a ARTHUR FOX caught up with his old number of years. The museum even found a class picture taken in front of the Megaron.” basketball teammate and friend DEE Congratulations, George! ROWE ’47. They first met 72 years ago at Worcester Academy. Art was impressed by all of the great changes 1959 at WA. It’s been three years since JOHN WOLF retired as a purchasing agent from a 1964 1965 manufacturing company near his home in Levittown, NY. He’s been enjoying In July, KEN PAYSON of Rutland, RICHARD CHIN, M.D. has a new book his newfound freedom teaching tennis MA, won twice on the same Saturday coming out called “Dynamic Kung Fu” to his teenage grandchildren, watching in his T4 Mazda Miata in the New and a new e-book already out called his children succeed in life’s challenges, England Road Racing Championship “The Power of Qi Kung.” He is currently and spending time with his wife. He at Thompson Speedway Motorsports professor of neuroscience at Long also has been lucky enough to be acting Park, adding to his Sports Car Club of Island University. at a local Long Island theatre company. America New England Region Series Most recently, he played the comedic/ points lead. He set a track record with a loony role of George in the Halloween lap time of 1 minute, 22.9 seconds in the thriller, “I’ll Be Back Before Midnight.” morning race. John hopes to see his classmates some- time in the near future!

Worcester Academy 35 40th Reunion 1969 1977 May 5–6, 2017 1981

The James Beard Foundation doesn’t MIKE MORRILL has stepped down only honor chefs. At a Leadership as football coach at Cardinal Gibbons Award ceremony October in New York, Catholic High School in Ft. Lauderdale, FL, the foundation recognized Congressman after 17 years. Mike, who has stayed on as JIM MCGOVERN of Massachusetts the school’s athletic director, had compiled for his work toward ending hunger. In an overall record of 113-67, and has the July, Jim led his third annual “Summer most wins in the school’s history. He Meals Tour” to highlight USDA summer guided Gibbons to 11 playoff appearances food programs for low-income chil- during his tenure coaching the Chiefs. dren. He also spotlights local farms, Former WA staff member and coach promoting fresh food and stressing STEVE MUNGER and his wife, Linda, the importance of providing nutritious stopped by campus to say, “Hello!” The food for people in need. Says Jim, “I Mungers were at Worcester Academy tell people all the time that hunger from 1970 to 1988. Steve was the first is a political condition. We have the 1985 full-time director of college counseling 1970 resources, we have the knowledge, and Linda ran the bookstore. They are we have the infrastructure to end it, parents of BETH LEAVITT ’87 and STEWART LASSNER is enjoying but we don’t have the political will.” KRISTEN DOOLEY ’87. being “Papa” to fraternal twins Ben and Teddy. He was recently elected trustee at Sepia Condominum at Ink Block in Boston’s South End. 1980

Kim Stone, director of donor develop- ment, recently enjoyed a wonderful 1971 dinner with HALBERT KATZEN in Mill Valley, CA. VICTOR FIELDS performed in “The Melba Moore Weekend Experience” this past August in Chicago.

MICHAEL SCULLY is the producer of the fabulous web series, Knights of New Jersey. The series recently won Best Web Series from the Cinema Constant Awards. Check out all the episodes at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ 30th Reunion May 5–6, 2017 UC9jwE78NBRzuWtakPI1VyTQ. 1987

GUY GLODIS opened a bar in Worcester’s Kelley Square named the Ballot Box Bar. It has a political theme with campaign memorabilia.

36 the HILLTOPPER : winter/spring 2017 1994 checking in 1995

1992 1993 “The New Trail of Tears: How Washington Is Destroying American Indians” is NAOMI SCHAEFER RILEY’S newly published account of poverty, suicide, and violence on American reservations. Riley talks about the federal policies behind Indian poverty, which have created a Third World reality for them in America.

behind the post

Congratulations to NICOLE SAHAGEN SCHIFF and her husband, David Schiff, on the birth of their son, Jonathan Issac Schiff. Jonathan was born on Oct. 29. The family resides in Los Angeles. Nicole is a partner, chair of the leasing practice, and head of the retail leasing and development industry group at the law firm Buchalter Nemer.

behind the post behind the post RACHEL ANDERSON and her 7-year-old son, Samuel, work as living Congratulations to Elisa and MO historians at the Claude Moore Colonial CASSARA on the birth of their son, Farm in McLean, VA. Christian Thomas Cassara, in August! Mo also received the “Doc” McGann Leadership Award from Long Island’s South Shore community in October.

Worcester Academy 37 Sharing Worcester Academy Annual Fund / www.worcesteracademy.org/givenow the joy of discovery Through the innovations of dedicated teachers, we deliver on our mission to cultivate progressive, forward-thinking leaders with a global perspective. It is the Academy’s Annual Fund that lifts us from good to great. Help us by making your contribution to the Annual Fund today!

20th Reunion 1996 1997 May 5–6, 2017

38 the HILLTOPPER : winter/spring 2017 1999 2000

After graduating from the Juilliard checking in School and dancing professionally for 12 years, ANTHONY BOUGIOURIS went back to school and received his MBA from McGill University. He has been consulting over the past two years and recently relocated to New York City to join the marketing department at a 1998 Midtown law firm.

Captain BRYAN BUCKLEY, a former Marine and a Bronze Star recipient, spoke to Worcester Academy students on Veterans Day. Thank you for your service, Bryan!

15th Reunion 2002 May 5–6, 2017

2001

SETH GOLDBERG and Allison O’Leary were married on Sept. 4 at the Beauport Hotel in Gloucester, MA.

BEN KAPLAN and his brother, JOE ’05, owners of Lakeside Bar in Shrewsbury, bought Herbie’s restaurant in Worcester.

Worcester Academy 39 Beth O’Neil ’02, Liz ’02, and Melinda Richardson ’01. Liz with her step-daughters and husband, Russell.

LIZ SAMARA JENNINGS married Russell Jennings in Boulder, CO, on Aug. 7. BETH O’NEIL and MELINDA RICHARDSON ’01 joined in the wedding celebration!

NATALIE HOWARD attended the September British Beer Co. event and told us that she now owns her first home, located in the Tatnuck Square area of Worcester. She has also started a new career in the banking industry as an assistant manager at UniBank. Prior to banking, she was a teacher for several years.

DAN O’CONNOR and Jessica Bunnell behind the post were married on July 23 at the New England Aquarium in Boston. CATRIONA KALMANOVITCH is a pas- try chef on the yacht “Safari Explorer” with Uncruise Adventures. She spends her summers working in Alaska and 2003 winters in Hawaii. 2004

After working as a family nurse prac- titioner in orthopedic surgery, SARAH METZ KRISSOFF went back to school at Georgetown in order to pivot from the JIM CIOCIOLO and Christine O’Connor clinical side into business and technol- were married on Sept. 3 at Saint ogy with a Master’s of Health Systems Thomas Chapel in Falmouth, MA. WA Administration. She married to Austin alums who attended were Krissoff in May 2016 in Washington, D.C. JIM CIOCIOLO ’72, father of the ERIC FINS and KALI PATRICK were groom; DANIEL O’CONNOR ’76, father there to celebrate too! of the bride; CHARLIE O’CONNOR, III ’73, KENNETH PAHARIK ’91, GARRET PIERMARINI ’99, JENNIFER GLOWIK ’01, DANIEL O’CONNOR, JR. ’02, KATHRYN PLANTE ’02, ELIZABETH O’CONNOR FERGUSON ’03, JASON HOWARD ’03, DAN ADAMS, BRENDAN LANDERS, TIM MASSARELLI, KATHERINE O’CONNOR ’06, MELISSA CIOCIOLO ’08, and PAUL O’CONNOR ’12.

40 the HILLTOPPER : winter/spring 2017 Ron Cino and his wife, Natalie Perez-Cino, with Alingon. MARK ALLEN is in his fifth season in Northboro, MA, as Algonquin Regional High’s defensive coordinator. He previ- ously coached at Worcester Academy for four years. In 2010, in honor of checking in Mark’s father, the Allen family estab- lished the Dan Allen Foundation for the purpose of raising awareness of mul- tiple chemical sensitivity disorder and similar neurological disorders caused 2008 by exposure to environmental toxins, AMANDA CROWE recently moved to The ONWARD Campaign celebration chemicals, and pollutants. Through fun- Somerville, MA, and has been working was headlined by comedian ALINGON draisers, the foundation has provided as a project manager for Dell EMC for MITRA, who has gained national aid to families and scholarships. Mark the past two years. Amanda’s love for recognition on “Conan” and “Last said in the future that the foundation running started on the Hilltop, and she Comic Standing,” among other shows. hopes to run a free football clinic for has continued running by completing His parents and his brother, ABISKAR inner-city youth in Worcester. several races over the last two years: the MITRA ’01, were in attendance for the 2015 Boston Half Marathon, 2015 TCS performance. NYC Marathon, and the 2016 Providence Marathon. Amanda is very excited to be running her first Boston Marathon in the spring on behalf of Boston Children’s 2005 Hospital—Miles for Miracles Team!

The Worcester Regional Chamber of 10th Reunion Commerce, the Greater Worcester May 5–6, 2017 Community Foundation, and the 2007 Leadership Worcester Advisory Committee have named 27 profession- als who will make up its class of 2017. The selection committee chose PETER JOMO FRAY is the “Man Behind the RAWINSKI, who works at Commerce Picture,” winning a coveted KODAK Bank, to join this group of motivated Vison Award along with an Eastman individuals who aspire to become future Kodak Company 2016 KODAK Student leaders in Central Massachusetts. Scholarship. He credits former Peter and the other professionals will Worcester Academy drama teacher attend sessions focusing on Urban Diana Canterbury with being a mentor Environment and Sustainability; on his path to working in the film indus- Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity; try. Congratulations, Jomo! RASHONDA SPEED visited campus Education and Youth Development; with her son, Kayden, and made sure Arts, Culture, and Quality of Life; and to catch up with receptionist Marketta Justice, Law, and Community Safety. Carter in the General Office. Rashonda, a nurse practitioner, was a member of WA’s 2006 undefeated girls varsity BRITTANY NYZIO has relocated from championship basketball team and says Attleboro, MA, to Atlanta to work at the she fondly remembers her teammates Intercontinental Exchange-The New and Coach Sherry Levin. Rashonda and York Stock Exchange (ICE/NYSE) as a her husband live in North Carolina. cybersecurity analyst.

ALICIA MARCULITIS is working at CAYLA DIROBERTO started a new job St. Peter’s Central Catholic School in at Randstad in Boston’s Financial District Worcester and was the assistant girls var- as a staffing consultant. She will be plac- sity basketball coach at WA this season. ing people in accounting, finance, human resources, and retail positions, both temporary and permanent.

Worcester Academy 41 2009 2010

BOBBY GOURDEAU, third from left, ran the Boston Marathon in the spring of 2016 to raise money for Tenacity, an organization that provides tennis lessons and tutoring to inner-city children. In fact, WA’s Gaskill Field is one of the tennis sites.

Patrick and Lindsey (John) Horan From left, Jim Crowley ’80, Henry Dormitzer ’88, Cody Fuller ’09, Patrick Horan ’09, Lindsey Horan ’09, Steven John ’81, Stephanie John ’07, Edward Reily ’09, Delaney Horan ’12, Daley Baldwin ’12, and Thomas MacLean ’12. behind the post

JENNIFER ZACHARIA was visiting Orlando for a medical conference and was able to spend a day in Disney World while she was there. behind the post

ALEXANDRA KLIMAVICH is currently PAUL ZHANG finished two years in the living in Los Angeles. Having just investment banking field in New York wrapped up a nearly two-year stint as and was moving back to China for work assistant to Wil Wheaton, she recently PATRICK HORAN and LINDSEY JOHN were married on Oct. 1. They met at Worcester for the next two years. began her new position as executive Academy and got engaged on the steps of Warner Theater. They had many other WA assistant to the president of Nerdist and alums in attendance at their wedding. Legendary Digital Networks. This past year, she also co-executive produced JOHN BUTTERWORTH began medical her first web series, “Future Girl,” a school at Weill Cornell Medical College sci-fi comedy about three unlikely room- RACHEL GATES is in her third year at REBECCA ANGOFF, a senior at UMass in New York City in fall 2016. John mates, which premiered on YouTube in Cornell’s school of veterinary medi- Medical School, was inducted into the also writes and co-hosts a podcast February 2016. cine. Last summer, after her résumé Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society, a for SB Nation’s Miami Marlins’ blog, passed in front of Jane Goodall, particularly meaningful honor since Fishstripes. Rachel was given the opportunity to her late father had also been inducted join the Goodall Foundation on the into the same Society when he was a Ugandan/Rwandan border help- medical student. Honorees are selected Congrats to DAN LIMA, a financial ing with a research study about the for high academic standing, leadership advisor for Morgan Stanley, on his water quality in a river that is shared among their peers, professionalism, a recent engagement to Julianne Peixoto by humans and apes. Apparently, firm sense of ethics, promise of future in September. Dan and Julianne met there’s a bit of cross-over illness, and success in medicine, and a commitment while studying abroad in Madrid, Spain, the foundation is trying to rule out the to service in the school and community. during their junior year in college. An river as the source of contamination. August 2017 wedding is planned.

42 the HILLTOPPER : winter/spring 2017 get connected Worcester Academy has a variety of social media channels to help you stay up to date with the latest news from the Hilltop. Whether you still live in the area and want to know checking in about upcoming events, or you live overseas and want to see what is happening in our classrooms through videos, social media is our way of bringing the Hilltop to you.

Here are just a few ways that you can stay connected: ZOE ETH was recently named head coach of the Heron junior varsity Become a fan of the Worcester Academy Facebook Page and the soccer program at her alma mater, WA Alums Facebook Page. See posts about upcoming events and William Smith College. Zoe helped the connect with the Worcester Academy Online Community. Herons win the Division III National Championship in her sophomore year. Visit Worcester Academy on Flickr to see the latest photos from games, performances, and school life. www.flickr.com/photos/worcesteracademy

Watch videos of students, faculty, alumni, and parents experiencing a real-world education. www.youtube.com/user/WorcesterAcademy

Catch breaking news about events, lectures, and more when you follow @WorcesterAcdmy on Twitter.

5th Reunion 2012 May 5–6, 2017

2014

2013

ALEX HOUSE’S mother reports that he is currently a senior English Literature major at Princeton, is busy prepping for his thesis, and fencing nationally and internationally at about 12 competitions a year, in addition to being captain of the Princeton fencing team. He has also been Academic All-Ivy for the past two years and First Team All-Ivy (an athletic distinction) all three years.

Worcester Academy 43 2015 2016

KERSTIN PETERLEITNER, MICHAEL SCHEMERHORN, and MOLLY RIORDAN (all Class of 2014) completed 200 miles of the Pan Mass Challenge in honor of loved ones, including the late Francine Smith, a former WA faculty member.

CHAZ TUCKER left WA in 2011 to wrestle at Blair Academy, the perennial power in wrestling in the country. By MR. SUMNER SENDS IT! The Quad his senior year at Blair, he was ranked never looked more beautiful in fall, even fourth in his weight division. Chaz though our campus trees dropped their matriculated to Cornell in 2015, but sat leaves! Witness Jake Sumner, our dean out the 2015–16 season due to injuries. of students, who, while impeccably He has four years of eligibilty left at dressed (always!), could not resist the Cornell. His sister, Sydney Tucker ’12, temptation of jumping into this pile and mother, Carol (Goldsbery) Tucker of leaves (photo by faculty member ’83, are graduates. Carol received WA’s Charley Mull). Distinguished Alumna Award in 2013.

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

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44 the HILLTOPPER : winter/spring 2017 passings and manufactured women’s clothing in Boston. He 1934 introduced the concept of coordinated sportswear, which is still a staple of women’s apparel today. Later DR. JAMES THOMAS BLODGETT of Sterling, MA, and Mr. Rosenberg founded New England Mackintosh with former headmaster The Villages, FL, passed away on Sept. 15 at the age of Evan-Piccone to manufacture pant coats, his version of 100 years and one day. After graduating from Bowdoin the U.S. Navy peacoat, which became a very popular JOHN A. BLOOM, 80, of Auburndale, MA, College and Harvard Medical School, he served in the style. Shortly after the war, he married Edith Gertman a former Worcester Academy headmaster, U.S. Army during World War II, earning all five European and was happily married for 54 years until her death in passed away Nov. 2 of complications from Theater Campaign Medals from the Army, plus one from 2004. They raised a son and a daughter. After his retire- diabetes and Parkinson’s. Upon graduating Britain. He led the medic corps through the triage at the ment in 1987, Mr. Rosenberg became a Florida snowbird, from Brown University in 1958, Mr. Bloom freeing of Nordhausen Concentration Camp. Dr. Blodgett but continued to visit the fashion capitals of the world. came to Worcester Academy as a teacher and was awarded Chevalier of the Legion of Honor by the Through a mutual friend, he met his companion, “Estey” coach of wrestling and soccer. As chairman French Ambassador of Boston in 2013. Immediately Lesburg, with whom he enjoyed travelling, cruising, and of the History Department, he founded the upon his return to the States he married his sweetheart, collecting art. In 2007, they joined Devonshire, a retire- Urban Affairs Program leveraging the school’s Alice Helen Crowe. He opened his medical practice in ment community. He is survived by his loving partner, inner-city location as an asset. In 1974, the West Boylston, MA, made many house calls in Sterling, Estelle; his daughter; and a brother. Board of Trustees tapped Bloom to turn Holden and vicinity, and delivered numerous babies. around the financially distressed 140-year- Both he and his wife worked at Holden District Hospital. old school that was teetering on the verge of The family moved to Sterling, where he became active closure. Headmaster Bloom reestablished the in helping to preserve East Lake Waushacum for the 1941 Academy’s reputation as well as its fortunes benefit of all, and he served for many years on the by opening the Academy’s doors to girls and Conant Library Board. Dr. Blodgett also served as a WILLARD C. “BUDDY” LEARNED SR. of Clinton, MA, expanding international enrollment. Bloom trustee of Shepherd Knapp School in Boylston. He was died on Dec. 2. He leaves his wife of 71 years, Delphine; left the Academy in 1985 for a second career an avid fisherman, almost always serving as men- two sons; a daughter; ten grandchildren; and 15 great- in property management at Church Park in tor to at least one young person. Dr. Blodgett was an grandchildren. He loved playing football and went on to Boston’s Back Bay. He returned to education especially creative wood worker, lover of books (both play at UNC Chapel Hill. He later instilled that love of the briefly, serving as the development direc- as reader and author), and was truly a lifetime learner sport in his children and grandchildren. During World War tor at Austin Preparatory School in Reading, and the proverbial teacher. He was both respected and II, Mr. Learned enlisted in the U.S. Navy Air Corps, even- MA, before he retired in 1996. A graduate of liked by his patients. He is survived by two daughters, tually becoming a flight instructor, teaching young cadets Phillips Academy Andover, Brown University, one grandson, and seven other members of his extended to land planes on aircraft carriers on Lake Michigan. and Assumption College, he was active as family who called him Granddad and Great-Granddad. While on leave from the service, he married Delphine, a volunteer in many civic, educational, and who joined him in Texas, where he was stationed as the religious organizations in Worcester and war ended. After his discharge, they returned home to Boston. He was inducted into the Worcester Clinton, where they raised their family. Soon after, he Academy Hall of Fame in 1991. He is survived 1935 began his 35-year career at Norton Co. in Worcester, retir- by his wife, Nancy; his five children and ten ing as an assistant superintendent in 1984. He was the grandchildren; and a brother. HAROLD J. ROSENBERG of Palm Beach, FL, and third generation in his family to spend summers at the formerly of Newton, MA, passed away on Nov. 20. camp at Bare Hill Pond in Harvard, which he referred to Please see the story on John Bloom in this After earning a B.A. from Brown University in 1939, he as “God’s country,” and he always enjoyed it immensely. issue of the Hilltopper on Page 12. joined the U.S. Army Air Corps. After Pearl Harbor, he instructed new crews on B-17s and B-24s before his deployment with a group of B-29s, which were prepar- ing to bomb Japan. Unexpectedly, he was transferred 1946 to the secret Manhattan Project where he trained as a navigator under the command of Col. Paul Tibbetts, who EARLE A. HALLSTROM of Longmeadow, MA, passed later piloted the Enola Gay, which dropped the atomic away on Oct. 9. He was an avid Worcester youth hockey bomb on Hiroshima. After the war, he founded Rosecrest player, lettered in hockey at North High School, and

Worcester Academy 45 continued to play through college and into the adult was instrumental in the installation of the Korean War league at Texas Instruments. He received his bach- 1949 Memorial at Kennedy Park in Hyannis. His best moments elor’s “with distinction” in mechanical engineering from were spent cheering from the sidelines of his children’s Worcester Polytechnic Institute, where he was elected PAUL J. “FIJI” MCNALLY SR. of Clinton, MA, passed and grandchildren’s sporting events, quahogging, gar- to Tau Beta Pi. He earned his master’s in mechanical away on Aug. 3. His wife of 37 years, Barbara, prede- dening, building dollhouses for his granddaughters, and engineering from Princeton University, where he was ceased him in 2008. He is survived by his three sons and taking frequent cruises. elected to Sigma XI. He proudly served his country in the two daughters; a sister; and his brother, John McNally U.S. Army Air Force. He dedicated 18 summers at YMCA ’48 of Colorado. He also leaves his former wife, Betty; 12 CHARLES O. “BUD” SWANSON II, a resident of Camp Morgan in Washington, NH, as a camper, coun- grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren. Mr. McNally Westford, MA, since 1971, died on Sept. 21. He earned selor, and assistant director; and was very involved in the excelled in athletics as a fullback for the Clinton Gaels his B.S. in political science from Bowdoin College and Boy Scouts and as a Scout Master as well. Mr. Hallstrom varsity football team, at WA, and at the University his master’s in political science from Brown University. worked for many companies as a consulting engineer, or of Alabama. He began working as a union bricklayer Mr. Swanson served in the U.S. Navy on a destroyer as director of product engineering and research, or as VP before accepting a position as a representative for the stationed near Jacksonville, FL. He was the president of operations. He enjoyed woodworking, golf, and great Associated General Contractors of Massachusetts. of Town Talk Bread, his family’s historic Worcester busi- times with his two grandsons. He also enjoyed relax- Devoted to bettering the lives of union laborers, ness for 10 years, then served as president at Colonial ing on his boat, “The Flickan,” and being a member of Mr. McNally served for 30 years with the Laborers Gas in Lowell for 23 years. Mr. Swanson was a member the Barrington Yacht Club. An active member at St. Paul International Union of North America as an international and past president of the Lowell Rotary Club, a world Lutheran Church in East Longmeadow, he had served representative. Later he was elected business manager traveler, an avid reader, and a scholar of World War II as financial secretary and previously as treasurer for the for the Massachusetts Laborers District Council, a posi- history. Mr. Swanson is survived by his wife, Dorothy; Order of the Vasa. He leaves his wife, June; a son and a tion which he held for many years until his retirement two daughters and a son; six grandchildren; and five daughter; and two grandchildren. in 2009. Proud to have served under five Massachusetts great-grandchildren. governors from William Weld to Deval Patrick, Mr. McNally was appointed as a trustee, first for the Mass. Maritime Academy, and later for Massport, where he 1948 served until 2012. 1950

RICHARD BENJAMIN of Brookline, MA, passed away THOMAS P. O’CONNOR of South Dennis, MA, died JAMES “JIM” ASHWORTH of Holyoke, MA, passed on Aug. 7. He is survived by Joan, his wife of 60 years; a on Nov. 7. He leaves his wife of 23 years, Mary Theresa away on Oct. 17. A graduate of Middlebury College, he daughter, Susan; and son Lewis; and son Mark, Class of Ford-O’Connor; two daughters and two sons; ten grand- earned his master’s from Cornell University. He proudly 1979; three grandchildren; and a large extended family. children; and a large extended family. He also leaves served his country in the U.S. Army, where he received His brother Harold, Class of 1958, died on Nov. 27. (See Mary Theresa’s children and grandchildren. His first the National Defense Service Medal and the Good Harold’s obituary on page 47.) wife, Anne Baggan O’Connor, predeceased him in 1990. Conduct Medal. Mr. Ashworth worked as a construction He lived in Worcester for 64 years before relocating to consultant for the former Keystone Leasing Co. in West STERLING D. CROWE LTC (RET) U.S. Army, died Cape Cod, where he had vacationed throughout his life. Hartford, retiring in 1998 after 19 years of service. He July 11 in Pembroke, ME. He served in the U.S. Army While at WA, he was a member of the undefeated and then went on to work part time for Hulmes Transport for with the 7th Armored Division, the 1st Cavalry Division, unscored-upon 1948 football team. In 1953, Mr. O’Connor many years. Mr. Ashworth enjoyed reading books, telling and the Maine Army National Guard until retiring as a earned his B.S. in electrical engineering from Worcester stories, watching Christian television, singing, playing lieutenant colonel. A 1952 graduate of the University Polytechnic Institute, where he played football and was a bingo, and spending time with his family. He was a mem- of Maine, he also graduated from the U.S. Army member of the Phi Kappa Theta fraternity. He later earned ber of the Disabled American Veterans. Mr. Ashworth Command and General Staff College, Ft. Leavenworth, his M. Ed. at Worcester State College. During the Korean was predeceased by his wife, Claire. He is survived by KS; and attended other U.S. Army schools. LTC Crowe War he proudly served his country as a radio operator his four sons; two grandchildren; three step-grandchil- was a Past Master of Lafayette Lodge No. 48 AF & in the U.S. Army 11th Airborne Division. Following his dren; and his four great-grandchildren. AM of Readfield, ME; a member of Winthrop Chapter military service, he entered the workforce as an engineer No. 37 Royal Arch Masons; and a member of Trinity and soon afterward began his career as an educator at FRANKLYN J. SCOLA JR. of Worcester passed away on Commandery No. 1, Augusta. He is survived by a son; the former Worcester Junior College. He taught mathe- Aug. 19. He pursued his love of learning at the University three grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and a matics and engineering and was the dean of the evening of Rhode Island, at Portia Law School in Boston, Clark dear friend, Alma Jane Kistner. His wife, Marion, and college, where he mentored many young students with University, and Assumption College. He began his career three half-brothers predeceased him. solid advice and understanding. He was a member of by obtaining real estate and insurance brokers licenses. the Planning Board and Conservation Commissions In 1958, he founded Absco Pest Control and served as its in Worcester and Dennis. A member of the American president for the next 30 years before retiring and passing Legion and the Korean War Veterans, Mr. O’Connor the company on to his son, Frank, in 1985. Mr. Scola also

46 the HILLTOPPER : winter/spring 2017 passings

co-owned the Tatnuck Driving Range and Golf School with Conflict. He loved all sports and was a 25-year season DR. PAUL F. WEIHRAUCH of Newton, MA, passed his son, Kerry. He is survived by Virginia, his wife of 64 passholder for the New England Patriots. He enjoyed din- away on June 15, 2015. He was a graduate of MIT, years; three children; five grandchildren; six great-grand- ing out, cooking, and being with his family. where he earned his B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. in metallurgy. children; his brother; and a large extended family. Mr. Scola Dr. Weihrauch was the co-founder of Therapro. He is enjoyed spending his summers at his Rhode Island home survived by his wife, Karen; a son and a daughter; and and his winters at his condo in Pompano Beach, FL. three grandchildren. His brother, Robert, predeceased An avid New England sports teams enthusiast, he also 1953 him in 2009. Worcester Academy is grateful to Paul’s enjoyed playing golf, bowling, and softball. classmate Tony Aaronson for letting us know about DAVID A. GLICK, a lifelong resident of Worcester, Paul’s passing. passed away on Nov. 14. He operated the family busi- nesses, which included Bancroft Motors, Bancroft 1951 Tire, and Bancroft Rent-a-Car, for more than 40 years. Mr. Glick served on the boards of Big Brothers and Big 1956 KENNETH W. DOUGLAS JR. of Pawtucket, RI, and Sisters of America, and Mount Pleasant Country Club, Nantucket, MA, passed away on Nov. 3. Mr. Douglas where he was a longtime member and an avid golfer. REV. RICHARD “DICK” STEVENS was a Lutheran was president of the New England Paper Tube Co. in Mr. Glick enjoyed all New England sports. An avid minister in southeastern PA. He was the loving husband Pawtucket for many years. In addition to his devoted photographer and reader, he loved spending his winters of Barbara; father of two; and grandfather of two grand- friend, Stanley York, Mr. Douglas is survived by his in Key Biscayne, FL, and summers in Ogunquit, ME. He daughters. Rev. Stevens was an avid sailor, who enjoyed two brothers and two sisters; and several nieces and leaves Sylvia, his wife of 60 years; a son and a daugh- sharing his knowledge with family and youth groups for nephews. He was a member of the University Club in ter; five grandchildren, including Sam ’03; and three decades. He passed away on Sept. 13, 2014. Providence, RI. great-grandchildren.

ROBERT B. JOHNSON of Vero Beach, FL, and NATHAN M. GRACE of Holden, MA, formerly of Middlebury, CT, passed away on Nov. 15. He is survived Worcester, died on July 28. He leaves Barbara, his wife 1958 by his wife of 61 years, JoAnne; four children; and 11 of 33 years; his daughter, Meredith Reichheld ’84; a son; grandchildren. Mr. Johnson’s life was filled with music, a step son and three step daughters; eight grandchil- JAMES V. “JIM” ASH of New York City died on great books, family, laughter, and world travel. A 1955 dren; his step mother; and a brother and two sisters. Aug. 18 at his country home in Bridgewater, CT. He is graduate of Bowdoin College, Mr. Johnson was a long- A graduate of Brown University and Boston University survived by his wife of 51 years, Deborah; two sons; two time vice president and director of Gibbs Wire and Steel School of Law, he practiced law in Worcester for 35 years granddaughters; his brother; and a nephew. A gradu- in Southington, CT. A lifelong aficionado of all things until his retirement in 1996. He also owned Sixth Avenue ate of the University of Pennsylvania, Mr. Ash worked “media,” he was also a former owner of WWCO Radio Construction Co. for 20 years. Mr. Grace enjoyed traveling at Morgan Stanley for 28 years, retiring in 2005 as an in Waterbury, CT. He wrote and recorded songs late in and traveled extensively throughout the world. He was a executive director in the Private Wealth Management life for a folk music album he collaborated on with his 50-year member of the Level Lodge of Masons. Group. He was a member of The University Club for 41 band, Bob Johnson and the Flatliners, called “Fast Train years, serving on the Committee on Admissions and to Nowhere.” Mr. Johnson spent countless happy hours on the House Committee. He also volunteered in the rooting on his beloved Hartford Whalers and Boston Red Comfort Zone at Weill-Cornell Medical Center, provid- Sox, accompanied by various cheering grandchildren. 1955 ing a listening ear to families of patients. Mr. Ash was a member of Worcester Academy’s 1834 Society, having NICHOLAS GARY PETRALIAS of Cherry Valley, MA, remembered the Academy in his estate plans. passed away on Aug. 15. He is survived by his wife, 1952 Bernadette; his son; his granddaughter; two sisters; and HAROLD “HANK” BENJAMIN of Southboro and North a large extended family. He attended Clark and Rutgers Falmouth, MA, formerly of Worcester, passed away on PETER FRABOTTA JR. of Uxbridge, MA, passed away universities. Mr. Petralias owned and operated Holden Nov. 27. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Nancy; on Nov. 18. His wife of 52 years, Barbara, predeceased Package Store and Gary’s Eating and Drinking Saloon in his son, Matthew ’88, of Toronto; his daughter, Melissa him in 2010. He is survived by four children and four Westborough, MA. He had also worked as a salesman for Roiter ’91, of Southboro; and his six grandchildren. He grandchildren. Mr. Frabotta owned and operated Frabotta the former Edward Buick dealership. After his retire- was the brother of the late Richard Benjamin ’48. (See Fruit and Produce, a 90-year-old, three-generation family ment, he spent many years working at the Disney Store in Richard’s obituary on page 46.) Mr. Benjamin was a business. He was the first inductee into the Uxbridge Framingham. A dedicated member of St. Spyridon Greek graduate of Babson College, and attended the Ross Hall of Fame, honored for being an outstanding athlete Orthodox Cathedral, he was a former parish council School of Business at the University of Michigan. He was in baseball and football during his years at Uxbridge president, volunteered at events and festivals, and was a a principal of the Mendall Benjamin Corp., and presi- High. Mr. Frabotta was a U.S. Army veteran of the Korean longtime member of the Order of AHEPA. dent of Bancroft International Stamping Co. and Benick

Worcester Academy 47 passings

Brands, all of Worcester. He served on the boards of the stone masonry and started Longmeadow Stone and Worcester Jewish Community Center and Temple Sinai. 1962 Restoration. He was a member of the Sons of the A passionate fly fisherman, he traveled around the world American Revolution. Mr. Nurse enjoyed boating, ski- to fly fish, from Argentina to Iceland and New Zealand PAUL THOMAS MULLOY III of Belmont, MA, passed ing, biking, hiking, spending time outdoors, traveling, to Alaska. He also relished going out on his boat to away on Oct. 9. He is survived by his wife of 44 years, cooking, and fine wine. His most cherished times were catch bluefish and bass on Cape Cod. Mr. Benjamin was Sherry; his two sons; and his grandson; a brother and spent with his granddaughter and his family. an avid golfer, tennis player, and a superb gardener. He two sisters; and a large extended family. He grew up enjoyed college sports and took great pleasure in coach- in Winchester, MA, where his Little League baseball ing high school basketball in Key Biscayne, where he team played in the Little League World Series for two and his wife spent the winters. consecutive years. A graduate of Bowdoin College, 1971 he served with the first group of Peace Corps vol- ANTHONY M. “TONY” BLASSBERG of Colonie, unteers in South Korea for two years, which led him JAMES D. BONOFILIO of Worcester died on July 22. NY, died on Sept. 29. Having earned both his B.S. and to Harvard University, where he earned an M.A. in He is survived by his wife, Rita; two daughters; his his Master’s in Communications at Boston University. Korean Studies. Mr. Mulloy then began his long career mother, Regina, of Worcester; and two sisters; as well He began his career at the Connecticut Educational in education—teaching, coaching, and working in as his “four-legged kids.” He attended the University Association. His career then took him from communica- curriculum development and teacher training. He of Massachusetts, Quinsigamond Community College, tions director at the Travelers Insurance Co., to founding returned to Winchester High School to coordinate the and St. Anselm College. Mr. Bonofilio worked for the his own production company, to real estate sales. Mr. Massachusetts Geographic Alliance for the National Massachusetts Department of Transportation as a Blassberg was active in local and state politics and was Geographic Society, and he founded the Massachusetts civil engineer for 34 years, retiring in 2015. He was a later employed as a research coordinator for the New Global Studies Center. In those positions, Mr. Mulloy member of the former Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church York State Senate until his retirement. A former vice shared his enthusiasm for geography, world travel, and and UNICO. A longtime avid train and car enthusiast, president of Temple Beth Tefilah in East Hartford, CT, he history through the introduction of innovative cur- he was a member of the Train Collectors Association. wrote various newspaper editorials and was the author riculums in elementary and secondary education. With Family gatherings brought him great joy, allowing him to of “Naches and Tsuris.” Mr. Blassberg is survived by his funding from the National Geographic Society, Danforth demonstrate his culinary prowess and spend time with wife, Barbara; a son and a daughter; a brother, Steve Foundation, and other foundations, he provided teacher his family and friends. Blassberg ’60 of Wethersfield, CT; as well as a grand- training and travel opportunities for teachers, particu- son; and a large extended family. He was considered a larly those who worked in school systems with limited wonderful host, who loved nothing more than a house funds for professional development. Throughout his full of friends, family, and fun. He took special pride in career and in retirement, he was an avid reader with a 1989 introducing others to all types of events and entertain- focus on history and geography, and he enjoyed world- ment, from Broadway to UConn basketball. wide travel from the Lewis & Clark Trail to the Panama ANTHONY “TONY” PULEO, a lifelong resident of Canal and Machu Picchu. Auburn, MA, passed away on Sept. 2. He leaves behind his parents; two sisters; his paternal grandmother; many aunts, uncles, and cousins; and his English 1960 bulldog, Charlie. He attended Franklin Pierce College 1970 and earned an associate’s degree from Quinsigamond HENRY HARLOW AUWERTER of Denver, passed away Community College. Mr. Puleo filled a room with his big on Oct. 19, 2013. His wife of 42 years, Cynthia, survives JAMES K. NURSE of Longmeadow, MA, passed away smile, sense of humor, and ability to use his photo- him. Mr. AuWerter had four siblings and two sons. on Nov. 17. He leaves his wife of 25 years, Michelle; graphic memory, which extended from sports statistics He found life hard, but was buoyed by his love for his a daughter, Meighan Ruschioni ’97; a brother and a to historical events. He was an avid sports fan and col- family, a deep sense of the absurd, and a natural sweet- sister; his granddaughter; and two nephews, Matthew lector of sports memorabilia, especially of Boston and ness. In high school, he captained the football team Topa ’16 and James Topa ’18. A descendant of New New England teams. In addition to collecting sports and also broke javelin and discus records. Mr. AuWerter England’s earliest settlers, he was born in New cards, Mr. Puleo was a connoisseur of junk food and attended Allegheny College and Case Western Reserve London, CT, and grew up on the family farm, rais- enjoyed esoteric brands of soda; he loved music rang- University. For three years, he served in the U.S. Marines ing his prize-winning livestock. A veteran of the U.S. ing from heavy metal to blue grass; and he was known as a radar technician, both in California and the Far Coast Guard, Mr. Nurse studied computer electronics for wearing bold socks. For more than two decades, East. WA is grateful to John McGowan ’60 for inform- at Sylvania Technical Institute before embarking on a Mr. Puleo and his father worked together at their family ing us of Henry’s passing. career in business that took him around the world, liv- business, Premium Auto Body Supply in East Hartford, ing in Austria, Switzerland, and Singapore. He served CT, until they sold the business in 2013. as the director of Asian Operations for Leybold, for many years. Always a craftsman, Mr. Nurse studied

48 the HILLTOPPER : winter/spring 2017 Spend your summer on the Hilltop.

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

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