TheSouth Kent School MagazineHillside | Winter 2013 The 2013Hillside Volume L Number 1 Head of School’s Report
Editor: Thomas Javery Communications Coordinator
Copy Editor: Mary Flemming Brown
Contributors: Laura Brande Hero Path Carol-Ann Bruen Cheryl Moore Lynn Mellis Worthington hen a young man attends South Kent School, he is doing so at a pivotal Send address changes to: time in his life. It is a time of transformation - of leaving one’s community South Kent School of origin, arriving in a new place, adapting, learning new skill sets, learning 40 Bulls Bridge Road to thrive, determining what his place is in this world and how he can contribute. It is an South Kent, CT 06785-1199 W (860) 927-3539 x206 inevitable process that we embrace at South Kent and define as, the Hero Path. email: [email protected] Each student’s experience and progression along his path is unique, and we often find that boys are at different stages when they arrive at South Kent School: South Kent School adheres to a long- standing policy of admitting students some newly departed from home, others further along the path and already feeling of any race, color, creed, religion, sexual comfortable and competent with their inner and outer worlds. Our goal as teachers is orientation, and national and ethnic origin to help guide our boys along this path while instilling in them the values of academic, to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made athletic, and character excellence. available to students at the school. It does The concept of a Hero Path, as developed by author Joseph Campbell, is a powerful not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, sexual orientation, idea that can be found, in one shape or form, in societies around the world. And as or national and ethnic origin in the evidenced in cultural rites-of-passage and traditions, success on the path requires a administration of its educational policies, transformative education that provides structure and a formalized approach. admissions policies, and other school- administered programs. This has inspired us at South Kent to address our boys’ education in a new way, blending our founding principles of Simplicity of Life, Self- Reliance, and Directness Mission Statement South Kent School is an independent, of Purpose with a school experience for the 21st-century world that gives boys the college preparatory school for boys. Since intellectual, moral, physical, and social foundation for scholastic achievement in its founding, South Kent has maintained college, and provides the foundation for productive citizenship in adulthood. ties with the Episcopal Church. Three principles define the school: Simplicity To this end we have created our Affinity Program: a systematic process that of Life, Self-Reliance, and Directness of introduces new students to the concept of what it means to partake in a Hero Path, Purpose. and puts into practice the values that we teach at South Kent School. The boys We offer, by living simply, an uncluttered continue to grow in confidence and knowledge as they explore, interpret, and employ environment for lively and rigorous the lessons they learn, intertwining classroom curriculum with age-appropriate learning. and challenging field experiences. We encourage our students to become The Affinity Program places each student from the 5th, 6th and PG self-reliant in order to develop Forms into an Affinity Group which rotates among three separate competence and self-esteem. Calls to Action: Call To Service, which requires a student to use We value directness of purpose: we want his gifts and talents for the benefits of the community; Call to each student to welcome the challenge to focus his energies, to set goals, and to work Adventure, which fosters a deeper understanding of the self and to meet them. instills in our students an appreciation for the natural world; and Call to Explore, which provides our boys with the opportunity to South Kent School fosters these principles in a community, small in numbers, that explore and express themselves through participation in the arts. Each provides a safe and supportive family year a student’s participation brings new perspective and growth and structure. We embrace diversity and cherish honesty, courtesy, and compassion. allows him to explore different facets of himself through experiences that In this energizing atmosphere, we provide he may not normally be exposed to in the course of his everyday life. leadership opportunities that develop In this issue of The Hillside, we feature our Call To Explore Affinity Group. a student’s sense of responsibility and service. We nurture in our students, Through involvement in drama, singing, movement, poetry, story-telling, video regardless of belief or religious affiliation, a production, and other artistic endeavors, our boys at South Kent School have thoughtful engagement with spirituality. the chance to release their inner artist and explore hidden talents they may not Visit South Kent School’s website at have realized they had. Opportunities such as performances and presentations www.southkentschool.org for the community draw boys out, making them comfortable with different
. . . _ _ _ . . . forms of expression, encouraging them to accept themselves and embrace their talents. Printed on recycled paper Continued on page 3
Cover2 • The Hillside Winter 2013 Volume L, Number 1 inside Winter 2013 The Hillside “The present generation, while possessing sophisticated knowledge and competencies in academics, athletics and in manipulating the digital world, have lost many of the foundation skills necessary to physically build, maintain, and steward their own immediate world.” see page 6
6 8 16 22
A Timber Frame of Mind FRONT&CENTER ALUMNI 6 Learn how building with their hands builds our boys’ minds 2 Letters to the School 12 Alumni Profiles
Board of Trustees Inspiring Creative Class Notes 4 Excellence 22 Winter and Spring Athletics In Memoriam 8 16 27 Art teacher Cheryl Moore shares her insights on opening opportunities in art to the students of South Kent School inSchool Missives
Dear Mr. Vadnais, I have been back to The Hillside numerous times, most recently the summer of ’11. I am in awe of what is happening to/ with the School, and I sing its praises every opportunity I get. I know SKS is not the same place it was when I graduated back in 1976, but I get the sneaky feeling the values remain the same, which is what the School’s For digital back issues or to get The Hillside success is really about. on your iPad, iPhone or iPod Touch, visit: Prior to my leaving the School, I let GHB know that some day www.southkentschool.org/magazine
I would come back-- to teach 1923 and make a difference. Right now I think I continue to make a SOUTHSCHOOL KENT difference, and so much more, at nd Saint Andrew’s School in Boca 2 ANNUAL Raton. But five years from now?? Who knows! Until then, know HARVEST that I am Cardinal and Black in HARVEST my heart; I am who I am today AUCTION because South Kent will forever AUCTION be a part of my body and soul. FALL FAMILY WEEKEND Make magic happen, Andy! SAVE THE DATE FRI OCT 18 2013 Reed Martin ‘76 In an exciting start for the 2012 Fall Family organized the festive event. Weekend, the South Kent School community “This auction was outstanding and added came together in the Brown Gymnasium with to an already fabulous Fall Family Weekend,” tremendous enthusiasm for the first annual said Andy Vadnais, Head of School. “I am Harvest Auction. very thankful to Kathy and Priscilla for Thanks to close to 200 in attendance and putting together such a wonderful event and a variety of contributions, parents, trustees am thrilled that our parents had a terrific and faculty raised their paddles to bid on weekend, too,” he added. items ranging from trips around the country The night began with cocktails and hors To Reach Us... and the world, art work, and gift certificates d’oeuvres during the silent auction followed by Editor’s Note: We welcome any to local restaurants and inns, to a signed the boys joining their parents for dinner and correspondence that you might be willing to share with us. Please official US Olympic team women’s soccer the live auction. South Kent School is deeply email letters to the editor to jersey, donations for the boys and even being appreciative of the efforts and donations that [email protected]. Headmaster for a day. The auction raised made the auction possible and demonstrated You can also send mail to Hillside Letters, South Kent School, 40 about $40,000 dollars with $13,500 going the power of the community. Bulls Bridge Road, South Kent, directly to improving the quality of student “Planning for next year’s auction is already CT 06785. All letters may be edited life for the boys. underway; we look forward to another for content. Letters received by The Hillside will be considered Kathy McCann, Associate Director of evening of a lot of laughter and fun while for publication unless otherwise Admission, and Priscilla Loomis, Director of raising money for our boys,” said Vadnais. stipulated by the sender. the Parent Committee at South Kent School,
2 • The Hillside Winter 2013 SCHOOLSOUTH KENTSTORE continued from inside front cover: In an article about Cheryl Moore, South Kent’s art teacher and co-leader of Call to Explore, you will see how she uses art as a way to encourage expression and risk-taking among her students. We also catch up on the lives of three former SKS students as they discuss the role that art and the Hero Path had on their life’s Engraved Crest choices throughout their collegiate careers. When our graduates leave the Hillside, they are confident Ceramic Mugs young men. They are armed with the necessary tools and values to approach life with integrity, self-respect, optimism, energy, resilience, creativity, and curiosity. The Hero Path, however, does not end with their time at South Kent; it prepares them for life’s further quests as they continue to navigate their path.
Vineyard Vines Andrew Vadnais Crest Ties [email protected]
“But if a person has had the Men’s and sense of the Call -- the feeling Women’s Play Dry Polo that there’s an adventure for him -- and if he doesn’t follow that, but remains in the society because it’s safe and secure, then Charles River life dries up... if you have the 1/4 Zip Shirt guts to follow the risk, however, life opens, opens, opens up all along the line.” To get your hands on all the latest SKS gear, visit: – Joseph Campbell store.southkentschool.org
Winter 2013 The Hillside • 3 The Board of Trustees
Investing in South Kent School South Kent’s Chairman of the Board Jeffrey Rosenberg
Mr. Jeffrey G. Rosenberg, ‘80 Ms. Susan Hecken Gardner, ‘80 (Chairman) Bila Family Partnership Mr. James M. Garnett, Jr., ‘74 Dear Friends, in helping our students achieve General Partner Citi he past two years at South their full potential. The school Head of Risk Oversight Kent have been a time of is fortunate that so many people Mr. Lincoln Day, ‘83 (President) Mr. Robert H. Hacker tremendous growth. Long believe in the value and quality of Generation Marine Finance dreamed-of initiatives for our the South Kent experience and that President Mr. Jeffrey L. Heath, ‘71 T Center for Innovation are under they choose to demonstrate their way, technology is thriving in our support by making a philanthropic The Rev. William C. Riker Jr., ‘59 Mr. Curtis Himy, ’84 (Vice President) PET/CT Imaging of Berkeley classrooms and improvements gift and investing in the future of to our buildings and grounds are our school. South Kent, like all Mr. Kai Chin, ‘67 Mr. William Marcus Kruer transforming our campus. All of other independent schools, depends (Treasurer) Convergence Technologies, Inc. these initiatives help us showcase on this generosity to continue its Wells Fargo Bank President/CEO what we as South Kent Alumni mission-driven educational offer- Mr. Andrew J. Vadnais Mrs. Kathleen Lindenmayer, have always known: that South ings. (Secretary) CAPT, USN (Ret). ’79 Kent School is an exceptional Continued progress on our South Kent School place in which to learn, grow and Center for Innovation remains a Head of School Mr. David Lyon, ’94 Northwestern Mutual develop the skills needed to succeed key focus of our 2013 initiatives Mr. Harold W. Bogle, ‘70 Financial Network as respected and caring citizens of with many plans in the works for Credit Suisse our world. With continued support additional buildings, garden centers, Managing Director Mr. Fitz Robertson, ‘05 from our Hillside family, we are and integrated student classes. J.P. Morgan Asset Mr. Jeffrey Burke, ‘85 Management poised to continue along this path Upcoming projects in the sports UBS Financial Services to excellence. arena include the refurbishing of Vice President Mr. Charles Rosenberg, ‘87 South Kent could not exist as it the existing hockey rink into a Cherrybrook Kitchen does today without the generous state-of-the-art center that matches Prof. Rodney L. Burton, ‘58 President & CEO Univ. of IL at Urbana-Champaign support and commitment of our the high caliber status of our elite Prof. Aerospace Engineering Mr. George H. Bartlett parents, alumni, grandparents, trust- athletic teams, as well as improve- (Emeritus) ees, faculty/staff and friends. Their ments to the existing soccer fields Mr. Jeffrey W. Conover, ’76 continuous support and investment in order to bring them up to status The Northern Trust Company Mr. Legare W. Cuyler, ‘58 Senior Vice President (Emeritus) in South Kent School is what en- for elite level play. ables us to offer such an exceptional As you consider investing in the Mr. Frederick K. Day, ‘78 Mr. John S. Farber educational experience, providing future of South Kent, please keep SRAM Corp. (Emeritus) resources to help retain and attract in mind that gifts of all sizes make Old Trails School Mr. McLean Erskine, ‘99 Headmaster an outstanding faculty and enhance a difference. It is the collective ef- our capabilities in technology fort of our community that enables Mr. Christopher Farr, ‘84 Mr. John Farr, ‘58 that allow us to continue working South Kent to continue producing The Shipley School (Emeritus) towards the goal of developing our lifelong learners who are respon- Director of External Affairs Mr. Noble F. Richards, ‘49 campus to meet the needs of the sible, contributing members of our Mr. Hani Farsi, ’86 (Emeritus) 21st century. global learning environment. Corniche Group / Mohamed It is investments like these that S. Farsi Foundation Dr. Charles P. Whittemore, ‘39 make up the difference between the Sincerely, CEO & Founder / Chairman (Emeritus) cost of tuition and the actual cost of Mr. John L. Garceau, ‘94 Ms. Sally Wister educating our students. Contribu- Thomas & Hutton Eng. Co. (Emeritus) tions to the South Kent Annual Fund help support a broad range Jeffrey G. Rosenberg Mr. Matthew Gardella, ‘87 Edwards Wildman of programs and play a crucial role Board of Trustees, Chairman Partner
4 • The Hillside Winter 2013 Over the past two years investments have funded: • Development and planned construction of a Faculty Village to retain and continue to attract high caliber faculty and staff.
• Upgraded networks and bandwidth on campus, enabling us to keep up-to-date with the latest in technological advances.
• Complete adoption of iPads within the South Kent curriculum making South Kent the leader in the field of integrated classroom technology.
• Restoration of shutters on the Old Building.
• Installation of “SmartBoards” in all classrooms.
• Incorporation of new equipment and technologies to advance AMG to its highest level.
News • Installation of a video editing lab that has elevated the popular Network Cardinal News Network. • Installation of a 3D printer and http://www.cardinalnewsnetwork.org retooling of the robotics program to enhance exercises in applied technology.
• Investments in professional development opportunities for faculty and staff.
• Upgrades to campus aesthetics, weight room, buildings and grounds.
Winter 2013 The Hillside • 5 inclass CFI
By Lynn Mellis The timber framing Worthington class is all about learn- here is a new type of learning going involving sustainability, the other, historic ing to take a concept or on that harkens back to an age that building technologies,” said Mr. Chavka. many probably think has been lost. “Timber framing fits because it provides an a goal from a mental Students involved in the Center for In- experiential component that both considers novationT are learning how to use their hands the historic integrity of the site and offers a representation to an to create timber frame structures from wood look at the big picture idea of resource use.” beams and posts. Sixth formers and post- Students enjoy the opportunity to use actual physical outcome. graduate students meet for double blocks their hands and work with wood. Many have four times a week and have created the shell never operated power tools before. of two timber frame sheds that measure 6 “It’s all fun,” said Jason Salvaggio, a sixth feet by 8 feet. former from Hanson, MA, who admits he Associate Head of School Richard had never done wood-working before. “It is Chavka is one of the teachers leading the a great opportunity to learn outside of the students. He is joined by Head of School classroom.” Andrew Vadnais and Dr. Jed Struckus. The boys work in teams of two on beams, Below: Nick DiNicola and Nicholas Iafrate having a The Center for Innovation course, Historic cutting away sections of wood so they fit little fun before getting to work on timber framing; Facing page clockwise from top right: Dr. Jed Building Technologies, has been abbreviated perfectly together. Many times they enjoy Struckus laying out plans for the day; Noah Williams to just CFI around campus and is part of the light banter as they work together. measuring the cut line for the end of a rafter; overall curriculum being developed for the “It’s great because so many of my team- Eduardo Camet, Sander Boroczky and Dr. Struckus check that their cut is perfectly square; Myles new property on South Kent Road. mates are in the class,” said Nick DiNicola, Mcfadden using a hand saw to cut timber. “We designed the stewardship course in a post-graduate from Wolcott, CT, who is two parts. One, focusing on the big issues on the U-18 Selects Academy hockey team. “It gives us another opportunity to bond, outside of practice.” Five different work stations are set up for the students in a former dairy barn that was re-located to the main School campus from the former Arno farm. A new concrete floor was poured for the building, and portable heaters were set up in the structure during this winter.
6 • The Hillside Winter 2013 special faculty member, who joined “The timber the team last spring, carefully guides framing class is all students in the process. Dr. Struckus about learning to isA a neuropsychologist who particularly take a concept or a goal enjoys working with adolescents. After from a mental represen- purchasing a house in Cornwall of timber tation to an actual physi- frame construction that dated back to 1850, cal outcome,” he said. “The Dr. Struckus began to learn about the con- class is also a laboratory that struction techniques as he worked to make allows the student to take improvements. intellectual concepts like “I fell in love with the methods, the tools the Pythagorean Theorem of timber framing, and the acts of restoration and discover the practical and renewal,” he said. What followed was a utility of such concepts class in timber framing at Hancock Shaker in the real world (such as Village. calculating a rafter’s length). He and his wife Lisa began to invite a It’s always easier to learn and number of high school students and young master knowledge when you adults in college to work on their home and have an appreciation for what that learn the timber frame techniques. knowledge can actually do.” “I embrace the philosophy of neural de- The hope is that the CFI students velopment that espouses the maxim, ‘learn- will help create a large timber frame ing by doing,’ and thus believe that it’s not structure on the CFI campus in the enough to read about something or watch it spring by partnering with professional being done,” Dr. Struckus said. “You actually timber framers. have to physically connect with any topic “Our students will have erected the very or concept in order to fully master it at the first new building on the new campus, brain level.” something that I am certain they will re- This interest eventually led him to South member the rest of their lives,” Dr. Struckus Kent School. He has developed this curricu- said. “There is nothing quite like creating lum for the School to teach timber framing. something useful, and knowing that it will He was surprised this fall to find out that continue to be useful long after we are all only four of the 20 students in the class had part of history.” any prior building experience. “Only a generation or two ago, nearly all young men had fairly well developed abilities at building or repairing things, a conse- quence of necessity,” he said. “The present generation, while possessing sophisticated knowledge and competencies in academ- ics, athletics and in manipulating the digital world, have lost many of the foundation skills necessary to physically build, maintain, and steward their own immediate world.” From a neuropsychological point of view, entire areas of the brain associated with some forms of ‘creating’ and ‘preserving’ are not being developed.” Dr. Struckus is enjoying working with the students each week.
Winter 2013 The Hillside • 7 inuniform Fall Athletics
CARDINALS
PREP SOCCER
VARSITY SOCCER CROSS COUNTRY Cheryl Moore
8 • The Hillside Winter 2013 Above Left: Tre Durham taking the ball from a Prep Soccer ally ranked high school teams. South Kent Hotchkiss player. Above Right: Patrick DiAngelo about to score a goal against Kent School. toured St. Louis University and Washington The 2012 South Kent Prep Soccer team University and spoke with the coaches after of Roxbury Latin, who went on to win the had a solid season but, unfortunately, it training on campus. The entire team went up tournament. South Kent played admirably ended in disappointment. The team was un- in the famous St. Louis Arch and spent time that day but could not score the goal that able to reach its ultimate goal of winning the exploring downtown. During the middle they needed. However, this team was the New England title, but they accomplished of the season, the team put on its annual ninth consecutive team to earn a spot in the many things and represented themselves and clinic for young players at the Washington New England tournament and did so despite the school well on all occasions. Montessori School, and the team enjoyed numerous major injuries to important play- The Cardinals finished the season with the experience just as much as the youngsters ers. Most importantly, this team was made an overall record of 11-5-3. Once again the whom they taught. Late in the season the up of fine young men and quality scholars, Cardinals took on the best teams in the New highlight was certainly a 2-0 victory over 14 of them earning academic honors in the England prep school ranks as well as some Suffield, not because of the score but because first term of 2012. top teams from outside the region in a very the team won the match in the midst of a Several players earned individual honors competitive schedule. The marquee win was heavy snowfall. With snow accumulating on for their play. Matias Correa, Trey Durham, a 1-0 home victory over Hotchkiss, aveng- the field from the start of the game, the team Simon Hernandez, Aaron Laranetto, Cam- ing an early season loss. However, the team’s went about playing beautiful soccer despite eron McFarlane, Raimundo Pardo, Giovani season will be remembered more for the the conditions. At halftime, the lines were Riello, and Shakhai Trott were all selected to experiences they shared together than the shoveled off so the teams would know when various All-Star teams. Trott took home the scores of the games. the ball was out of bounds, and by the time team’s Most Valuable Player Award, Correa One of those experiences was the chance the game ended there were two inches of earned the Golden Boot as the team’s top to play in the biggest high school soccer snow on the field. It was quite a sight and a scorer, Durham and McFarlane shared the tournament in the country, The Gateway remarkable experience, especially for some of Most Improved Player Award, and Mickey City Soccer Classic, in St. Louis, Mis- the players who had never seen snow before. Watson earned the Coaches Award at the souri. The team was able to visit the city for The season ended in the New England School’s fall sports banquet. four days and did many exciting things in quarterfinal game, a 1-0 loss with 1 minute Submitted by Coach Owen Finberg addition to earning two ties against nation- left in the second overtime, at the hands
Winter 2013 The Hillside • 9 Fall Athletics
Varsity Soccer
Our goal from day one was to win. This was a pretty reasonable goal considering we had most of the team back from last year. In addition to the return of most of our boys, we also had a group with experience that ranged from having never played at all, to having played for maybe a few years. This put Coach Lou and me in a very tough posi- tion when we had to choose our final team. It wasn’t until our first match against the Again, Master’s put up a great fight Our first week of practice was interest- Master’s School that we showed our true keeping the game scoreless, even through ing to say the least, but more importantly, abilities. At this point in the season our re- overtime. We were faced with the most the boys were having fun - brushing off the cord stood at an impressive 6-1-1, but Coach pressure we had all season, a shootout. We cobwebs where the soccer experience used to Lou hadn’t been completely satisfied with tallied our most confident shooters: Devonte be, and getting to know the new faces on the our level of play. Master’s started the game Duckworth, Stephane Bossio, Zach Pereira, field. Each day, the team seemed to get just aggressively, not giving our team much room Garrett Fox, Raul Chamale, Long Hoang a bit more of what we were trying to teach to move the ball and find good opportuni- and Detre Bell, who was in goal as well. Shot them. ties. They managed to put one in on a great after shot, as Coach Lou faced the opposite Our season started almost too soon, with shot just above the 18. We went into the half direction, our boys did it. We beat them! the boys having absorbed only bits of what down 1-0. The energy was high for both The next day we were faced with the second we were actually trying to get through. It’s teams, and we were hungry for goals. We challenge, our rivals, Christian Heritage. safe to say this is where we realized the team went into the second half as a different team, The game was again scoreless until late in was different in games from what they were this becoming most clear when fifth former the second half when Luc Chatelain scored. in practice. Our first game was at Hotchkiss. Chao Huang shot and scored a beautiful goal At this point, we started playing a defensive The first half, or at least the first 25 minutes from the opposite post. Our team cheered game in order to hold onto our lead. Only were a true eye opener, showing great move- as if it were the first goal all season, which giving them one opportunity, we held on, the ment on the field from our boys and, finally, in some way, it was. About ten minutes later, whistle blew, and again we were champions. clinching a goal from a header by sixth we sealed the game with a perfectly placed Each player this year was key to our suc- former Garrett Fox. This was the only goal shot off a free kick from post-graduate Luc cess. Although it took us longer to find our we would see all day, as our game took a turn Chatelain. We had finally found our game game, we found camaraderie from day one. for the worse, and we were stuck playing but also one of our toughest opponents. It was this that seemed to be the fuel for catch and chase for the second half. It was We wouldn’t lose again for the rest of the our success and led us to be back-to-back clear that we had great potential on the field; season, facing the rest of our league, includ- champions. Thank you, boys, for another we just needed to find a way to harness the ing Watkinson, Chase and Christian Heri- great season, and for another grey hair in my more positive side of our game. This became tage. Then came the play-offs that appeared beard. most clear in our tie against St. Luke’s. very similar to that of the year before. Submitted by Coach Marcus Cooper
10 • The Hillside Winter 2013 From far left to right: Raul Chamale during a game Cross Country light of the size of the meet--big meets tend against Master’s School; Chao Huang leaping to stop the ball from going out; Cross Country team to inflate scores and margins of victory--and members Bohan Chen, Shihao Hu, Takenori Tabata, The South Kent cross country team began the absence that day of two top South Kent Tetsuro Yamato, Cheng Chi, and Zixiang Tang as they the season with only two runners returning runners, Lei Yang and Shihao Hu, for an pass Fieldhouse. from last year’s top seven, and so the season academic obligation.) The Cardinals even began slowly for the squad, with a fifth place eked out a 28-29 victory over Salisbury dur- finish and sixteenth place finish in the Oak- ing the regular season, something that never wood Friends and Canterbury invitationals. would have happened at the start of the year. The team did not give up easily and clearly Because of this progress, Father Klots--the worked harder than most of its competition- team’s coach--was pleased to award varsity -and soon made progress. Thus, in the first letters to eight runners at the end of the home meet on South Kent’s notoriously dif- season: fourth former Zixiang Tang; fifth ficult Hillside course, the Cardinals earned formers Cheng Chi, Pat Curry, Joel Garcia, victories over Christian Heritage, St. Luke’s, Shihao Hu, Takenori Tabata, and Tetsuro Marvelwood, and Harvey. Yamato; and sixth former Lei Yang and Joel This progress continued for the whole sea- Garcia, who ran his way to all-league honors, son. Although the squad only came in fourth winning the Anne Funnell Cross Country in the HVAL championships and eighteenth Trophy for the Most Valuable Runner, and in the New England championships, its Lei Yang winning the Arthur W. Brown margins of defeat to the top teams in the Cup for Most Improved Runner. league grew smaller and smaller as the weeks Submitted by Coach Stephen B. Klots of training passed. In this respect, South Kent lost to Watkinson by 64 points in the first league meet but narrowed that margin to 19 points in the massive New England championships. (This narrow margin at the New Englands was especially impressive in
Winter 2013 The Hillside • 11 inperspective Finding Creativity
Drawing OutHIDDEN High school is a time for learning, grow -TalentSKS prepares him for collegiate success. But ing, maturing, and if you ask most normal beyond that, it teaches a process that will 14 – 18 year old boys, a time for taking some propel him forward through his life, make chances. Teachers, like Mrs. Cheryl Moore, him a better and happier person, and create understand this need to explore, and she success – for himself and the community he loves to give her students the opportunity to lives in. do just that. Whether it’s taking the athlete We met up with three former SKS stu- and putting a paintbrush in his hands or dents and asked them to take a few moments putting an academically focused student on to reflect with us on the impact that South stage, this chance opportunity might mark a Kent, and especially Cheryl defining point for a student along his “Hero Moore’s art classes, Path”. have had on their Based on the work of Joseph Campbell, Hero Path, their a Hero Path is a concept embraced by the success in college, South Kent School community. It is a model and what lessons for how to live life successfully, recognize they will take with and adapt to a changing world, thrive when them as they prepare presented with new challenges, and leave a for the next chapter community better than you found it. in their lives. In essence, a young man’s Hero Path at
12 • The Hillside Winter 2013 Jackie everyday stresses. Carmichael “Mrs. Moore taught me to relax and lose In 2009, Jackie myself in the artwork, to expand my mind Carmichael at- as an artist,” says Carmichael. “She said that tended South Kent a piece may not come out perfectly or even School for his the way it was envisioned, but art is art, and post-graduate year. what you put on the paper is an expression He expected it to of yourself.” be a year focused Carmichael remembers always learning on improving his basketball game and something new in Mrs. Moore’s class. preparing for college. What he didn’t expect “She taught me to enjoy and embrace art was that it would also be a year of personal in a completely different way, and to develop growth and inspiration. But after embracing an appreciation for all kinds of art.” the principles of SKS, and with a little help When pressed, however, he does admit from Mrs. Moore’s art class, that is exactly that abstract and futuristic art is his favorite. what he found. “I love seeing what people can imagine, even “I grew up in Kansas and played pretty if it is a little wacky.” much every sport I could. I loved being As Carmichael makes plans for post- outside,” Carmichael explained “and thought college, he knows that art will continue that sports would be my main focus while at to play a major role in his life, even if he South Kent School.” doesn’t have the time to sketch as often And while basketball did remain a key as he might like. He also knows that factor in his experience at SKS, Carmi- the lessons and guidance he received chael is also quick to point out that it was while at South Kent School, and in the incredible people and relationships Mrs. Moore’s class, will follow him that he formed with his classmates from down whatever career and life path all over the world that really helped he chooses. him develop into the man he is today. And when asked if he has any advice Currently a senior at Illinois State he would like to pass on to today’s University, Carmichael adheres to South Kent students, he states, “Just go many of the principles and lessons in with an open mind and don’t worry about that he learned at South Kent and what other people think. You will truly from his art teacher, Cheryl Moore. enjoy your experience, and it is a great way “Mrs. Moore was an amazing to discover a talent you might never even teacher with so much energy and know you had.” enthusiasm towards her students and her love for art,” says Carmichael, who signed up for Cheryl Moore’s Drawing & Painting class in his first semester at South Kent. “Her art program helped me under- stand how everyone is different and express themselves in unique ways. I think under- standing that goes a long way in relating to the many different people you find in your community.” Facing page left to right: Painting Always artistic, Carmichael loved to draw by Andrew Crowley; Photograph by Leo Fan; Self-portrait by Jackie and sketch as a kid. But it was at South Carmichael; This page left to right: Kent School that he learned his artwork Jackie Carmichael’s SKS Photo; could provide a release and refuge from life’s Painting by Jackie Carmichael.
Winter 2013 The Hillside • 13 Finding Creativity
Andrew in a work-study program creating logos and stay consistent in my work.” Principles, he Crowley drawings for the sports teams at his school. says, he learned during his time at SKS and Andrew Crowley And most exciting, he is beginning to receive from his understanding of the Hero Path. grew up playing commissions from people requesting his art- For students today who might be hesitant baseball and bas- work for their homes. His plan is to transfer to participate and try something new, Crow- ketball in Canton to a 4-year college next fall and continue his ley offers this piece of advice. CT, an area not far education in graphic design or architecture “Take a chance. You never know what you from South Kent and work towards a career in which he can might find out about yourself or where the School, when he best use his drawing skills. path may lead you.” enrolled in 2010 for his post-graduate year “Through the South Kent program I was For Andrew Crowley, it seems his path is to play on SKS’s prep basketball and baseball able to find out what I was truly gifted at leading to success. teams. And while at the time he may not and use it to the best of my abilities,” says have considered himself particularly artistic, Crowley. “Without Mrs. Moore I would after one year in class with Cheryl Moore, not be where I am today. She inspired me to he definitely considers himself to be an artist uncover my artistic talents and showed me today. ways to improve my skills and make my art “I took both of Mrs. Moore’s art classes stand out.” for the one year I was at South Kent. She Indeed, Mrs. Moore and his experience at continually encouraged me to explore my South Kent School certainly left an impact talents and push my abilities as an artist,” on Crowley. The tight-knit South Kent fam- says Crowley. “That enabled me to experi- ily was a fantastic experience for him, and he ment with higher levels of art work that I credits it for helping him ma- might otherwise not have had the opportu- ture and grow as an individual. nity to do.” “The lessons I learned there Today, Andrew Crowley is a student at are always in the back of my the Community College of Rhode Island. mind when I’m dealing with Blending his two favorite situations in my life today,” activities, he is study- he says. “There was always ing graphic design someone to talk to and lend a and participating helping hand. South Kent is a place where I felt comfortable and supported by everyone around me.” He also credits Mrs. Moore’s words of encouragement and welcoming environment with enabling him to discover his true talents as an artist. “She provided a relaxing atmosphere where I was able to forget everything else for a little while and really get into my work.” Andrew fondly remembers a favor- ite project that he did while in class. It was a pastel of the North Lighthouse on Block Island and he considers it the first “real” piece of artwork that he ever did. “Through all the projects and pieces I did, I learned to strive for the best and
14 • The Hillside Winter 2013 Leo Fan “I was given a lot of opportunity to do Leo Fan is a camera work for Mrs. Moore and photogra- twenty-one year old phy pieces within the community,” says Fan. student of Photo- “I got good enough that people started using journalism at the my photographs for drawings and as a basis Rochester Institute for other art projects.” of Technology in After several months in Mrs. Moore’s upstate New York. class, he discovered what many previous Growing up in students realized: that art isn’t just about Shaoxing, China, he never imagined the ef- learning how to draw and paint. Rather, Mrs. fect that an art class he would take in his 6th Moore teaches an appreciation for art in all Form at South Kent School would have on its forms and encourages a student to explore his life and the artistic path he would choose. a deeper understanding of what he is capable “I had a good art education ever since of doing. I was a kid, so I always considered myself When he looks back, one of Fan’s favorite artistic,” says Fan, “but it was at South Kent projects was for his application to Rochester that I guess most people began to view me as Institute. Taking him almost three months a photographer.” to complete, he credits this project, and the Add that early training in art to a teacher training Mrs. Moore provided, to teaching who instills in her students a sense of him the patience needed to complete a piece confidence and daring that is still embed- of art to the best of his ability. It is a lesson ded within them long after leaving the halls he well remembers when he approaches a of South Kent, and there is no stopping a project for one of his classes today, and a les- student like Fan from believing that he has son he will take with him as he plans for his what it takes to succeed. future career as a photographer. Arriving in 2009, Fan was sent to South Facing page left to right: Self-portrait by Andrew Kent School by his parents who were look- Crowley; Andrew Crowley’s SKS photo; ing for a well-rounded all-boys school in painting by Andrew Crowley; This page left to right: Leo Fan’s SKS Photo; Drawing America in which to educate their child. by Leo Fan; Recent photograph by South Kent offered excellent academ- Leo Fan. ics, and athletics, and provided a variety of artistic outlets. As a student, Fan took every opportunity to enjoy all that South Kent had to offer. He played basketball, golf and participated in triathlon. But it was the art program, and an advanced art class he took with Mrs. Moore that left the most enduring mark. “The art program at South Kent provided not only the basic art skills,” says Fan, “but also a sense of what art is. It broadened our Photos from the Hillside horizons, allowing us to enjoy doing art.” – By Leo Fan Going beyond the basics and rising to This 20-page hardcover coffee table book is meet a challenge is a fundamental lesson that the prefect gift for anyone who has spent time Fan remembers learning at South Kent. In on the Hillside. Filled with photos taken by Leo addition to acquiring new art skills in paint- during his time here at South Kent School, this ing and drawing, Fan was encouraged to photo book is sure to elicit fond memories. pursue his other artistic interests and develop Available for purchase at: his passion for photography. store.southkentschool.org
Winter 2013 The Hillside • 15 inperson Portrait of an Educator
Inspiring Creative Excellence
Art Teacher Cheryl Moore Leads Students on a Journey of Discovery... About Themselves, Art, and the Hero Path
Cheryl Moore guiding Nicholas Pezza on his painting
rom the moment you step into Cheryl and practice needed to succeed in one’s art. However, it was her love of dance that first Moore’s art studio at South Kent “I believe that there is artistic ability in drew her into the arts, and she would begin School you are aware that this is no all of us,” notes Mrs. Moore, “and to unlock her educational career in 1983 as a dance Fordinary high school art class. Soothing these talents often requires a different per- teacher in a small town in the Berkshires, music streams from speakers. Inspirational spective on the world around us.” about an hour’s drive north of South Kent. pieces of art made by former students line This philosophy is one that is echoed She remained there for three years until a the walls. And work areas, filled with pro- in the founding principles that guide the series of knee injuries forced her to change fessional tools and equipment, entice the students at South Kent School, helping them paths, and her talent for painting and draw- aspiring young artist to pick up a pencil or grow in confidence and knowledge as they ing took center stage. paintbrush. It is an atmosphere that soothes explore, interpret and employ the lessons From dance to drawing to her involve- and relaxes, yet, at the same time, engages they learn. Simplicity of life, self-reliance and ment in theater, Mrs. Moore has found many the senses and stimulates the desire to create. directness of purpose are values embodied avenues to express her love for the arts. But Bringing to life an environment that is in South Kent’s Hero Path, which attracted since 2008, it has been South Kent School, both relaxing and inspiring, where the stu- Mrs. Moore to SKS in the first place and in her art studio where students proudly dents can leave the stresses of their academic inspired her to want to teach and guide display their finished pieces in windows for classes behind for at least a little while, is these young men as they continue to explore all to see and enjoy, that Mrs. Moore calls what attracts many students to Mrs. Moore’s new paths, much like she herself has done home. class - not to mention the fact, that on cold throughout the course of her career. We caught up with Mrs. Moore recently winter days, students may be welcomed with Growing up in Stockbridge, Massachu- to discuss some of the reasons why art freshly baked treats and hot chocolate! And setts, Cheryl Moore did not need to go far is important in a young person’s life and while this may sound a bit more like a social from home for artistic inspiration. The idyl- what motivates her to teach. As always, she club setting than a classroom, Cheryl Moore lic countryside and picturesque town setting inspired us not only with her artistic talents, is nothing less than serious when it comes to made famous by Norman Rockwell provided but with her words as well. guiding her students through the techniques plenty of fodder for the aspiring young artist.
16 • The Hillside Winter 2013 Cheryl Moore SKS:What was it that inspired you to become involved in art and led you to teaching?
I’ve always been an artist. I’m very “right-brained.” I started drawing at an early age and won a few awards in middle school. Then my family moved to Stockbridge, Massachusetts, where I was inspired by the work of Norman Rockwell. It was as a student in high school that my talent was nurtured and encouraged by several wonderful teachers. I attended the Rhode Island School of Design, where I earned my degree in fine arts, while at the same time traveled home to the Berkshires to perform with the Olga Dunn Dance Company. My first teaching position was as a dance teacher at Berkshire School, in Sheffield, MA, where I stayed for three years until a series of knee injuries put an end to my dance career. At that point my husband Walter, who is also a current teacher at South Kent, and I accepted positions at Darrow School in New Lebanon, NY. During my twenty-six years at that school, I taught art, theater and dance. I was also asked to revive and build their theater program.
What drew you to South Kent School?
Andy Vadnais, the Head of School at South Kent, was a former colleague of ours at Darrow, and he invited Walter and me to join him here at South Kent School. We were both ready for a change and excited about the chance to join the excellent team of teachers and students we met here at SKS.
And the classes you teach...?
I currently teach five courses in Drawing, Painting and Advanced Studio Art, mostly to sixth formers and post-grad students, but there are a few fifth and fourth formers that occasionally take my class as well.
What do you like best about teaching the students at South Kent?
I enjoy the process of helping my students find their ability and develop their talent. I like that the art studio is a focal point of our campus. The boys are proud to display their work in the studio windows for the community to see. It pleases me that so many of the boys come in during their free periods. I like that teaching art gives me an opportunity to get to know the boys in a way that goes beyond the traditional classroom or player/coach relationship.
Ben Gardner ’12 expressing his passion for fishing through paint.
Winter 2013 The Hillside • 17 Portrait of an Educator
Do you have an overall philosophy or approach when it comes to teaching?
Drawing and Painting can be a spiritual endeavor. I tell the boys on the first day of class, “I want art class to be the best part of your day.” Acquiring and developing a skill comes from practice and from having good examples to learn from. I use a se- ries of exercises designed to engage the right hemisphere of the brain, and the art studio walls are covered with paintings and drawings done by my former students. The combination of visual awareness, along with the progressive development of their motor skills often results in a break-through moment for the beginning Boys absorbed in their artwork in the Maggie artist. I truly believe there is artistic ability in all of us, but to access that talent Smith Visual Arts Center often requires the ability to take a different perspective on the world around us.
How does your classroom setting encourage the students to develop this “different perspective” on the world?
The boys have a lot on their minds when they come into my classroom. They bring the stress and pressure of their academic classes, and I strongly believe that the art studio should be a refuge, where a student can relax and push that stress aside for a little while so that he can open his mind to new ideas. When the boys enter the art studio, there is always music playing. I try to keep it soothing, but current. The room is warm and well lit. At the end of a section, I’ll surprise them by bringing in some home- baked treats. There’s hot chocolate and tea in the winter. It’s comfort- able and yet the atmosphere is a serious one.
And do the students seem to respond well in this environment?
You can’t learn to draw and paint if you are stressed. We have a relaxed work schedule, although I do put finishing dates on all as- signments. You will rarely find a boy wandering, unless he’s visiting and checking out his classmate’s work. They are engaged and, for the most part, interested in what they’re doing. And students know they always have the opportunity to come in during their free blocks to work. I also try to spend a few minutes, several times a class, at each boy’s desk to help him move forward with his assignment.
Which topics do you think pose the biggest challenge to your students?
Actually, the biggest challenge comes right at the beginning of the year, when the students just aren’t sure if they can suc- ceed. They see the excellent work on the walls of the class- room and can be intimidated. It only takes a short time, though, for them to settle in and realize that it’s a process, like learning to ride a bike. Baby steps.
18 • The Hillside Winter 2013 I’m sure that you have some boys who come to your class and think art is just “not my thing”.
When I find I have a student who is struggling, I’ll give that student a little more of my time in class. I’ll encourage and guide his hand a little more as well. I try to recognize and reinforce progress and minimize frustration. I find that the boys who enthusiastically want to be here, even having never taken an art class, learn to be good observers. They listen closely and know that they have to pace themselves. They naturally become more confident and when that happens, they improve.
How does the process you employ in teaching art relate to South Kent School’s idea of the “Hero Path”?
We recognize that boys arrive at South Kent at different stages of their Hero Path. In art, they arrive in my class at different levels of ability and experience. They will all learn new skills. For some, the process truly takes them out of their comfort zone. The challenge can be frustrating, and progress at first may be slow. It has been my experience that, at some point, the young artist “gets it”. Something clicks and his creative expression starts to blossom. He masters the fundamentals and wants to take on new challenges.
Do you find having a class of all boys to be an advantage when it comes to having them express their artistic side?
Having taught co-ed classes, I can say that an all-boy class definitely has fewer distractions! Seriously though, there does seem to be a healthy exchange of conversation between the boys during the drawing process that crosses some of the social and language boundaries that may exist outside of the studio.
What impact do you hope that the exposure to art will have on your students?
My hope is that many of my students will continue to express themselves artisti- cally beyond their coursework here. I hope that they gain an appreciation for the arts and their value not only in education, but in the broader community as well. I want my students to look at the world differently. I want them to see the concepts that were introduced in the studio and apply them to the “real world”.
Winter 2013 The Hillside • 19 Portrait of an Educator
You also lead the Call to Explore Affinity Group with your husband Walter. Can you tell us about that?
It’s all a part of the Hero Path, stepping out of one’s comfort zone to try new and unfa- miliar experiences. We are currently in our second year as coordinators, and our intent is to provide the boys with opportunities to proceed along their path through the arts. In my group, the boys can participate in theater, music and dance - talk about stepping out of one’s comfort zone! But I am proud to say that the program has become very popular, especially dance. Before we started this program, theater was not popular among the boys at SKS, where as now they take pride in the performances. It was difficult at first, but it has gained acceptance and popularity. It’s great to see these young men willing to take on new challenges and try new things. It’s what the Hero Path and the affinity programs are all about. Students in their costumes for the Call to Explore play The WWI Christmas Eve Truce
As a final note, is there one take-away you want to leave the students with?
That exploring the arts should be fun. There is no stigma in taking art or participating in theater. It’s okay to put yourself out there. People won’t laugh or heckle from the audience.
FUN FACT: Cheryl has created the School’s beautiful holiday cards for the past five years.
20 • The Hillside Winter 2013 SOUTHSCHOOL KENT
ANNUAL REPORT2011-2012
To see the Annual Report go to www.southkentschool.org/alumni1923
Keep up with the latest SKS happenings by liking the SKS Facebook page! www.facebook.com/SouthKentSchool
Winter 2013 The Hillside • 21 intouch Class Notes
CHILDBIRTH BIG MOVE
RETIREMENT MARRIAGE NEW JOB JUST CHECKING? IN ALUMNI GET TOGETHER We’d love to hear from you! Please remember to send in your class notes by mail, or by emailing Carol-Ann Bruen [email protected]. Don’t forget the picture!
Allen Perrins Above: Nancy, Jerry Waller and Joan 1935 Wister at Sydney Waller’s Cooperstown Jerry Waller 2012 INA World Championship, 1953 Nonsuch 30, 1st place, 6-day Anthony Crossley home In Sept., Jerry, Nancy Waller, Joan rendezvous held at Greenport, NY. The school for autistic children Wister, Peg Waller Burhoe, Sally Granddaughter Andrea and cat that my wife, daughter and I Wister Parrott and Sydney Waller “Maude” as crew. met at Sydney’s Cooperstown founded 10 years ago, InKids, has home, to celebrate Nancy’s 94th! gone from 6 to 40 full-time and 50 Jerry celebrated his 96th Dec. 1948 part-time students. The success of 20th! Jerry and Nancy still live in Mason Nye this non-profit has demonstrated their Hilltop home --”the Farm” -- Regards to all my class members! I once again that there is so much near Cherry Valley. am recovering from a serious neck more in giving than receiving. injury but otherwise feeling fine 1946 and am still in good health. Robert McClenahan Walter Strohmeyer Very proud of SKS the older I get. I traveled to Russia and Germany 1949 No other school like it! in summer of 2012 for a month Del Hitch and spent one week in Moscow Jean and I moved to “The Paul Veeder and St. Petersburg. Met with my Villages” in central Florida in 2004. Oldest grandson, Lansing, is in German friends and made new Had to give up tennis for my back, his second year at St. Joseph’s German friends. Traveled with but play golf 4 or 5 times a week. University on a baseball the father of a German student (Touch life!) Health is good and scholarship. who spent his junior year at SKS. life here is really great! Continued swimming ½ K in Long Bill Worthington Island Sound up until the last day 1950 Received the Truro MA Council of October. Joseph Scott on Aging’s “Senior of the Year I am getting too old to fish, but Award” for his dedication and 1945 my dog and I spend a lot of time service to the community. “I am Lawrence Brown looking at birds and the ocean - really flattered,” Worthington said Wendy and I had a “mini SKS changes every day. of the award. “I consider myself reunion” with Tom and Joan Buell such a washashore and have only in Pt. Orchard, WA in October. 1951 been doing the things I like to Great to see them as always! None Paul Matthews do.” Looking at the list of previous of us have changed!! Visited my cousin Legare Cuyler winners, he notes, “So many of on Cape Breton. I made a trade them I know – people who did Stephen Garnett of a painting I made for a chair valuable and important stuff. It Legare made from a lobster pot! truly is an honor to be up there I am looking forward to my 85th with them. It feels unexpected birthday in January and my SKS and good.” 70th reunion in 2015!
22 • The Hillside Winter 2013 Center for 1954 1963 Innovation May 4 John Severance Tom Dingman My doctor recently said I would SKS, keep up the good work! Think-Tank live to 90 or more. “That depends on the quality of life”, I said. “No!”, Jay Greener Invitation he replied. “It depends on the I am fighting the presumed 2013 quality of your doctor!” If he’s effects of Agent Orange, coronary right, I’ll be contributing to the artery disease and Parkinsons, www.southkentschool.org/thinktank South Kent Fund for some years and although it is difficult to get to come. around, I hope to be back on the From Andy Vadnais, Head of School Hillside for my 50th. 1955 As I travel the globe on behalf of South Kent, I Robert Gibbons Leland D. Potter frequently engage in conversations with many of you who Retired to Vermont to ski. Still drilling, filling and billing four feel as we do about the importance of South Kent’s new mornings a week. Golf, gardening Survived triple bypass surgery Center for Innovation curriculum, particularly those areas and boating keep me active. It and recovered in time to ski with was a very busy summer with Linda – wife of 45 years. that involve sustainability and resource use. Many of you visitors, both friends and families. have encouraged me to think in new ways about how we 1968 can leverage our combined assets of land, water (including 1962 Thomas Williams Hatch Pond), and forests, etc. George Bartlett put it best David Chamberlain After teaching middle school when he spoke of solving ecological issues first in one’s Enjoying my retirement in math the past few years at The own backyard! Small steps that encourage not discourage. Colorado and Florida. We have a Willow School in Gladstone, NJ, I To take our programs to the next level, the School new Bichon puppy named “Izzy” have decided to retire. I am very needs the expertise and perspective from those of you who keeps us happy. We sadly active in road bicycling with my working in fields of water management, organic farming, lost our beloved Schnauzer last wife, Muffin, and really enjoy it. historic preservation, restoration ecology, timber December. My granchildren are Also, I am substitute teaching at management, entrepreneurship, alternative energy thriving in Denver. Taking life on a local schools and as of now feel generation and construction. Our overall goal is to figure slow bell. pretty busy for a guy with not much to do! I am sorry, but it out how to use our resources wisely as a living laboratory looks like I won’t be able to make where we can formulate viable solutions to the vast array Below: Siblings Alan 54’, Ann and Jay it for our 45th reunion in June, but of environmental problems we face, with many of these Greener at Lincoln Center following who knows, maybe my plans will projects to be managed by the boys. the University Glee Club of NYC Concert with the Dartmouth Aires change. I am extending an invitation for you to attend an organizational meeting held here on the Hillside on May 4, 2013. My intent is for this to be fun, intellectually engaging and invigorating for all. I welcome all who are interested in hearing about our program and would also like to share their expertise with us. If you would like to join us for the day or have any questions please contact Rich Chavka, CFI Director (860)927-3539 x 229 or email [email protected]. I look forward to meeting you and to some very interesting discussion!
Winter 2013 The Hillside • 23 intouch Class Notes
rd Annual SKS Golf3 Tournament Thursday June 13, 2013
Jennifer and son Henry and they because of his outstanding 1977 are expecting a son in December. advocacy and education efforts Jay Swan Loved South Kent!! Hope one of on behalf of the local child welfare I am an IT consultant at Aetna his sons will also go there. community. in Hartford, CT, through iTech Consulting Services. Thomas Winter 1985 [From his mom, Josie Winter] Cortright Sandstrom 1978 Tom is Controller for much of Five-year-old Grace Anne and Brazil and Paraguay for ADM Rob Kay 2-year-old “CJ” keep me on the Below: Bill Denham prepares his Bobbi and I just moved into a do Brasil. His oldest daughter run. All is good! plane to go out on maneuvers 1920’s bungalow. We are down- graduates from Emerson College with a flight of F-15s from a base sizing since both boys will be in in May, and his middle daughter 1991 on Guam. college next year. Now more time started at DePaul in the fall of Jeremy Marks 2012. Youngest daughter is still in for biking and skiing and less time Jeremy is now assistant principal school in Brazil. on the yard, etc. All the best to and school counselor at Benjamin everyone in 2013. Franklin International School in 1982 Barcelona. Hiroshi C. Yamamoto David Crampton My family and I have recently Adoption Network of Cleveland Lieut. Col. Bill moved to Tokyo. We are all doing Ohio has selected David well. Denham Crampton, PhD, to receive the son of Doug Denham ’65 and 2012 Triad Advocate of the Year Dede Denham, former faculty 1980 Award. This annual award is members at SKS, is currently Ward Parsons presented by Adoption Network Director of Operations for his [Sent in from Ward’s mother] Ward of Cleveland to those who have squadron and is based at Kadena, has been in Singapore for 3 years made a significant contribution Okinawa. If classmates want to with Heidelberg Printing Co. He is to the adoption and/or foster care get in touch, his email address is returning to Sweden with his wife field. Crampton is being honored [email protected]
24 • The Hillside Winter 2013 1993 Robert Patton Robert and Kathryn are happy to welcome John Robert Patton born September 1st, 2012, 7 lbs., 15.5 oz. 2001 Jimmy Luxbacher Just wanted to give you a heads up that Amy and I were blessed Above: Matt Baker (2nd from with a wonderful little girl back left) and Matt Jones (Far Right), on April 11th. Her name is Audrey Class of ’92, at the Las Vegas Half 1992 Grace Luxbacher and she IS Marathon; Middle: Newborn John Matt Baker AMAZING. We will be relocating Robert Patton; Right: Proud Papa, I recently moved from San Diego for work to NE NJ, Bergen County, Robert Patton, Mom Kathryn, big to DC. Taking over more hotels. in February, and I hope to visit brother Edward and John Robert Matt Jones and I got together and more! I hope everything is going Patton. ran the Las Vegas Half Marathon on Dec. 2nd. well on the Hillside.
Alumni Weekend 2013 June 14-16, 2013
All alumni are invited back for this special event, but if your class year ends in “3” or “8” this is your year to celebrate! For updates and information, visit www.southkentschool.org.
If you are interested in helping organize your Class Reunion, please contact Carol-Ann Bruen. [email protected]
Winter 2013 The Hillside • 25 intouch Class Notes
Jason Slusher Jonathan Guss Married Rachel Jones at the Jonathan graduates from Berkeley bride’s parents’ home in Bel Air, Law School in May, 2013. After he MD, on November 17, 2012, takes his Law Boards, he will be an with South Kent Chaplain, the associate at Mayer Brown in Palo Rev. Steve Klots, performing the Alto, CA. He currently works for ceremony. Jason is working as a the California Supreme Court. carpenter and doing some hockey coaching while Rachel finishes up 2004 her doctorate in physical therapy Jake Coley from the University of Maryland - In early October, Jacob and Ashley Eastern Shore. The couple is living Coley were married in Bucks in Bel Air. County, PA. They are really excited for their 3 month trip around the 2003 world in March and to start their Gavin Fazio young lives together in Princeton, On August 11, 2012, Gavin NJ in the Fall. married Lauren Nicoll in an outdoor ceremony on the 2005 campus of Endicott College Jeremy Blutstein (where the bride and groom I was a finalist in the Hollywood met) overlooking the Atlantic Screenplay contest with my script Ocean. The Rev. Steve Klots, South “Charlie Finally Loses It” for It’s Kent Chaplain, officiated in the Clockwise from top left: Father Klots, Always Sunny in Philadelphia. Here ceremony, and the couple was Jason Slusher and Rachel Jones at is the website that shows the also joined by Colin Kennedy Jason and Rachel’s wedding; Jake results of the contest (http://www. ‘03, Nate Lusk ‘01 Ben Ruzzo ‘01, and Ashley Coley as they are first hollywoodscreenplaycontest. and Kealan Rooney ‘03. Gavin announced as Mr. and Mrs. Coley; com/contest/past-winners- Jeremy Blutstein at the Hollywood and Lauren are currently living 2010/2012-official-finalists) You Screenplay awards dinner; Father in Charlestown, MA, where they have to scroll down to the spec Klots, Gavin Fazio, Lauren Nicoll, Colin expect to be joined by their first script category to see my name. Kennedy ‘03, Nate Lusk ‘01, Ben Ruzzo child later this spring. ‘01, and Kealan Rooney ‘03 at Gavin and Lauren’s wedding. 2010 Ian Fleming [From his grandmother] Ian is spending his 3rd year as an exchange student at the University of Bamberg, Germany. He will finish at Clemson in 2014. Many thanks to all of you at SKS! 2012 Jimmy O’Connor Currently attending and playing hockey at Southern New Hampshire University with Jimmy Gabrione ‘11 and Nick Riccio ‘10. Jimmy and I are roommates and our room is covered with SKS decorations! Thinking about SKS every minute.
26 • The Hillside Winter 2013 inmemoriam
William “Bill” W. Lynch ‘39, tific editor, fantasy novelist, Vice President of Roto Forge John D. Washburn Jr. ’59, passed away on October 27, opera writer, Baha’i devotee Corporation in Rockford, Il- 70, a retired contractor, died 2011. Bill was raised in Con- and barefoot runner, to name linois. During Don’s life he was November 18, 2010. He was necticut and graduated with but a few. Morgan was born an avid boater, tennis player born in North Adams, Massa- honors in geology from Wil- in Los Angeles, California, on and Green Bay Packer fan. He chusetts. He was a life member liams College in Williamstown, Nov. 1, 1927. He graduated was a devoted father who was of St. John’s Episcopal Church Massachusetts. After college, from Albany Medical Col- always involved in his chil- in North Adams. He is survived Bill served in the U.S. Army lege in New York in 1955 and dren’s activities including be- by his wife, Marilyn and sons, during World War II. His service practiced clinical neurology ing a scout master, volunteer Andrew, Bryan and David in General Patton’s army took and electroencephalography. football coach, and cherished Washburn. him from Normandy to the In 1970, he moved to Canada mentor. to earn diplomas in epidemiol- Battle of the Bulge. After the Harvey W. Hobbs ’49, passed ogy and community health war he attended Cambridge away at home on December at the University of Toronto University in England. He and 18, 2012. He is survived by his in Ontario, where he later Bill and his wife Violet Dobson wife, Sally Hobbs. Cook met as young teens, became an assistant professor dated in college, and were in the department of preven- John G. Mosher ’52, died married in 1944, and spent the tive medicine and biostatistics. Sept. 27; he was 77. Mr. Mosh- next sixty- seven years togeth- He wrote a 560-page fantasy er spent much of his career as er. After Cambridge he taught novel called The Words of the a skiing instructor in St. Gilgen, math and science for a year Papermaker that he self-pub- Austria, before relocating to before attending Yale Univer- lished in 2006 under the name Arlington in 1983. He was the sity, where he earned both a Peter G. Angelin. He also wrote U.S. Information Agency’s masters and a doctoral degree an opera called Open House. director of overseas cultural in educational psychology. and policy programs from He then taught at New Haven W. 1983 to 1988 and served four William King Love III ’65 of State Teachers College, the Donald of those years on the execu- St. Charles, Missouri, died on University of New Hampshire Roberts, tive board of the U.S. Olympic Saturday, June 16, 2012 at the in Durham and Indiana Uni- Jr. ’45, of Committee. In 1988, he was age of 65. Loving husband of versity. He retired in 1987. An Keswick, appointed director of inter- Margaret Love; beloved son of unselfish and caring person, Virginia, national programs for Special the late William King, Jr. and Bill was loved and admired by passed Olympics International. He Elizabeth Love; devoted father family and colleagues. He was away at advocated the international of Christopher Love, Elizabeth truly a gentle person and a home on expansion of Olympic pro- Shirk, Claire Simmons and man of rare integrity. Mon- grams in countries such as Jacob Miller; cherished grand- day, July 23, 2012. Don was Brazil, Austria, Latvia and the father of Collin, Emily, Austin, born in New York City on Ivory Coast. He graduated Anna, Grace and Brady. November 7, 1926, and grew from Princeton University in Elizabeth Duncan ’78, of up in Pelham, New York, and 1956 with a degree in classics, Clinton, formerly of Sherman, Winnetka, Illinois. Don lived then joined the Navy and was died Jan. 25, 2013. Ms. Duncan in Evanston, Illinois; Dayton, stationed in Japan until 1959. was born July 19, 1960 in New Ohio; Northbrook, Illinois; Five years later, he published Milford, daughter of Marjorie Lac Du Flambeau, Wisconsin; “Kyoto: A Contemplative Guide,” Coote Barker of Washington Sarasota, Florida and Keswick, a comprehensive guidebook and Roger Duncan of Ken- Virginia. Don attended South to the city, written under the tucky. She graduated from Kent School in Connecticut, name Gouverneur Mosher. The South Kent School in 1978 New Trier High School of Washington Post called it the and earned her degree from Winnetka, Illinois, and then “definitive book for the serious the University of Connecticut Peter Morgan ’45, passed enlisted in the Army Air Corps., traveler,” and the book went School of Pharmacy in 1984. away peacefully, painlessly, at four months prior to his 18th into its 14th printing in 1992. Ms. Duncan was employed sunset in Perth, Ontario, after birthday in 1944. Upon his He was an expert on Japanese at New Milford Hospital, New living 85 years in medicine, return from service, Don postage stamps and wrote 22 Britain General Hospital and, teaching, writing, editing, attended the University of articles on this subject. most recently, at Lawrence music, and the world- embrac- Illinois. Don was an advertis- Lawrence “Lance” Halsted ’54 Memorial Hospital in New ing Bahá’í Faith. Morgan filled ing salesman and also went passed away in January, 2012. London. many roles, physician, scien- into business with his father as
Winter 2013 The Hillside • 27 inretrospect Reflections
The Pigtail, June 6, 1953
28 • The Hillside Winter 2013 SOUTH KENT for SCHOOL
Two Special Challenges Offered
South Kent Fund Challenge Center for Innovation Challenge
A small group of Trustees have The Sharpe Family generously offered a Challenge Foundation has offered that will match dollar-for-dollar up a Challenge Grant for to $50,000 all new and increased South Kent School. gifts to The South Kent Fund This Challenge will between January 15 and June 30, match dollar-for-dollar 2013. The purpose of this Challenge is to up to $100,000 all gifts to the Center for encourage greater overall participation in Innovation raised before June 30, 2013. our annual campaign. The purpose of this Challenge is to help fund the construction of a new classroom building for South Kent School’s Center for Innovation.
Your gift to The South Kent Fund is an investment in our students, faculty and the programs we offer here on the Hillside. All gifts, regardless of size, have an impact on the daily life of the School. Please consider a gift to The South Kent Fund today.
If you would like to learn more or have any questions, please contact: Tim von Jess, Director of Development • (860) 927-3539 x205 • [email protected]
To make your gift securely online, visit our web page at: www.southkentschool.org South Kent School 40 Bulls Bridge Road South Kent, CT 06785-1199 860-927-3539
Parents of Alumni If this publication is addressed to your child who no longer maintains a permanent address at your home, please notify the alumni office of a preferred mailing address by calling (860) 927-3539 x206 or emailing us at [email protected]. Thank you!
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