BaldwinEchoes The Magazine for Alumnae, Students, Families and Friends of The Baldwin School
summer 2016 Commencement | Reunion | Alumnae awards
Dr. Porges takes time out to visit Lower School students Wynne Conger ’23 and Flora Brigham ’23 during a campus visit earlier in the year.
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Bea Vocero-Perez ’18, Hailey Barnett ’18 and Carly McIntosh ’18 pose with Dr. Porges during her visit on Ring Day.
Then&Now
r. Marisa Porges, Baldwin’s 8th Head of School, first arrived in the fall of 1990 as a seventh grader, following in the footsteps of her two older sisters, Stefanie ’80 and Jennifer ’83. From the start, she excelled in academics, while also devoting herself to art, athletics and extracurricular activities. During her time at Baldwin, Dr. Porges participated in the Baldwin Belles, Model UN and The Hourglass, spent many hours in the painting and sculpture studios, and played lacrosse, field hockey and basketball. One of her treasured Baldwin memories was when fellow athletes selected her for the White Blazer Award. Her classmates recognized her abilities as well, voting her “Most Likely to Be the Bionic Woman.” After graduating from Baldwin in 1996, Dr. Porges went on to Harvard University, where she participated in Navy ROTC, played lacrosse and was a staff producer for the Hasty Pudding Theatricals. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Geophysics, then received her Master’s Degree from the London School of Economics and her Ph.D. from King’s College London. Most recently Dr. Porges served in the White House, as a senior advisor for cybersecurity and technology policy at the National Economic Council. Some of her key accomplishments there included helping launch the President’s Buy Secure cybersecurity and consumer protection initiative and directing efforts to expand Internet access in public housing. As Baldwin’s new Head of School, Dr. Porges looks forward to getting to know the Baldwin of today and advancing The Baldwin School’s core mission — to create intellectually curious, empathetic girls capable of making a lasting impact on the world. She hopes that, under her leadership, Baldwin will continue to serve as a national leader in all girls’ education.
ECHOESContents Features
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Commencement 2016 Baldwin celebrated its 128th graduating class, the Class of 2016, in June. See highlights from the event and learn where our 62 graduates will be attending college in the fall.
Departments
Editor: Lisa A. Algeo
Assistant Editor: Nova Morgan
2 Upfront
6 honor roll
8 academics
Contributor: Ali Gogarty
Design: Veronica Utz
Photo Credits: Jay Gorodetzer, Gerald Lawrence, Katie Brogan Ozeck,
Jessica Parrish, Jeff Reeder, Mark Tassoni All photographs are identified left to right unless otherwise noted.
10 arts
12 athletics
28 Alumnae Awards
30 Legacy Profile
32 Why I Give
We welcome letters regarding the contents of the magazine and/or issues pertaining to the School. Letters must be signed. The editor retains the right to edit at her discretion.
33 Class Notes
52 Closing Thoughts
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Baldwin welcomed back the Classes of Red the last weekend in April. View class photos and highlights from all the events.
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Reunion Weekend
Lisa A. Algeo, editor, Echoes The Baldwin School 701 Montgomery Ave. Bryn Mawr, PA 19010 lalgeo@baldwinschool.org
For general alumnae requests or information, please contact the Office of Advancement and Alumnae Engagement: Stacy Gallagher, Chief Advancement Officer sgallagher@baldwinschool.org or 610-525-2700, ext. 286
@baldwinschool @baldwinathletic
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Alumnae Group ow.ly/cdGas
UPfront
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eturning to 701 Montgomery this summer, settling into Krumrine House and seeing Baldwin through the eyes of so many members of our Baldwin community – in short, it’s been awe inspiring.
Most exhilarating was hearing about the hopes and dreams our most recent graduates will carry into college and beyond, guided by the values we teach our girls every day. It remains a priority to instill these core principles in our students, fostering a passion for lifelong learning, ethical excellence and community spirit – alongside a Baldwin-bred confidence in each girl’s voice and personal potential. During my one-on-one meetings with faculty and staff this summer, I saw that we have the perfect team in place to further this mission. I can’t wait for the girls to race into school this September, so the fun can begin! Like many of you, Baldwin has always been – and will always be – my second home. I hope that over the months ahead, fellow alumnae will be inspired to strengthen their Baldwin family ties, to call their classmates, roommates and teammates a bit more often and to visit campus, too. I know they will see, as I have, that the intangible elements that make Baldwin so unique are still alive and well. But just as graduation opened a new chapter for the Class of 2016, the start of my time as your Head of School likewise brings us the chance to reach for new heights while holding on to cherished traditions. There is work to be done, of course, and as I’ve met with the Board of Trustees and parents, faculty and staff, students and alumnae, I have a better sense of what our Baldwin needs next – and of what we can accomplish together. Our School’s future is as bright as ever, and I look forward to working with you to ensure its continued success. Marisa Porges, Ph.D. Head of School mporges@baldwinschool.org facebook.com/marisaporges Twitter: @MarisaPorges
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Drs. Jerry and Carol Shields, lead sponsors of the Alex Wake ’05 Run/Walk for the last four consecutive years, kick off the race alongside Sally Powell.
Alex Wake Run/Walk The 13th Annual Alex Wake ‘05 Memorial 5K Run and 1 Mile Fun Walk was a great success. More than 400 runners and walkers participated, and more than $64,000 was raised to support academic scholarships.
Above: The Class of 2018 before the day begins. Left: Bea Vocero-Perez ’18, Nandé Hardy ’18 and Tara McMahon ’18 show off their new signet rings.
Ring Day One of Baldwin’s favorite traditions is Ring Day, when Grade 10 students receive their rings at a class dinner and then spend the evening decorating the Schoolhouse in their class color and a chosen theme, making it a surprise the next day for the rest of the School community. This year, the Class of 2018, celebrated their class color of gold with a bank heist, complete with bags of gold coins littered throughout the hallways.
Summer 2016 Echoes
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Marching-In Dinner The Class of 2017, the Class of Blue, debuted its new blazers and newly composed class song at this year’s Marching-In Dinner. The juniors and seniors enjoyed dinner together and then spent time reminiscing and sharing their treasured pins.
Class of 2017 members Sophia Raff, Michelle Mariette, Willing Li, Madison Raju and Caroline Kiser show off their new blazers.
Sally Powell’s Portrait Unveiled Former Head of School Sally Powell had her portrait painted by Ruth Fackenthal, a former arts faculty member. The portrait now hangs in the Main Hall of the Residence. Back row: Lily Barnes ’17, Alexa Bartels ’17, Arianna Hairston ’17, Joely Simon ’17, Lindsay Gordon ’17 and Carrie Schaeffer ’17; Front: Amanda Kichline ’16, Gabrielle Cohen ’16 and Isabelle Schaeffer ’16
Grandparents’ Day
Carl Dranoff spent some time in the Grade 4 classroom with granddaughter Ella Gutstadt ’24.
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Grandparents and special friends visited Baldwin on May 9 to celebrate Grandparents’ Day. Our Lower School girls performed special songs, including the Baldwin Alma Mater, introduced family members to their teachers and shared some of their most exciting accomplishments in the classroom.
To see many more photos from these events, visit our SmugMug page at baldwinschool.smugmug.com
Our “Lower School Gala Singers” performed “It’s a Small World” and “So Long, Farewell” from the Sound of Music.
Marcia Reiver ’78, Sally Powell and Tuyet Wong (P ’16) pose in front of an artistic paper dress made from maps, created by Marcia for the event.
2016 Passport to Baldwin
Andrew and Alice Simon (P ’07, ’17) chaired this year’s Passport to Baldwin Gala.
The Passport to Baldwin Auction and Gala was held on April 9. This year’s theme spotlighted the many countries that are special to former Head of School Sally Powell and our Baldwin girls. Guests traveled around the Residence with unique offerings from every corner of the globe. In addition to the various food stations and butlered hors d’oeuvres, they enjoyed a sit down dinner catered by 12th Street Catering. For the fourth year in a row, more than $500,000 was raised!
Rob and Stephanie Schaeffer ’85 (P ‘16, ’17) and Bob and Tracey Ivey (P ’16) enjoyed the night’s festivities.
Senior Class Alumnae Luncheon On June 8, the Class of 2016 was welcomed into the alumnae community with a special luncheon and alumnae induction ceremony in their honor. They began the event with the annual gong ringing and then moved into the Assembly Room for a catered lunch and remarks by Lisa Ameisen ’76, President of the Alumnae Association Executive Board. Members of the Class of 2016 made the transition from student to alumna during a ceremony in the Main Hall, where many local alumnae were gathered to present them with red roses, a symbol of their class color and unifying bond of their new alumnae sisterhood. Alumnae Mary Oehrle French ’60, Sarah June ’10, Carmen Lennon ’95, Charlotte Matthai ’13, Noelle Niu ’10, Stephanie Cohn Schaeffer ’85, Savanna Stanton-Ameisen ’13 and Margie Tranger Walton ’63 came back to School to partake in this special ceremony. Summer 2016 Echoes
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Honor Roll Upper School Class Day 2016
On Tuesday, June 7, Baldwin recognized outstanding seniors and select members of the junior class at Class Day in celebration of their high academic achievements and demonstration of Baldwin’s ideals in their everyday lives. These students received the following awards in recognition of the many contributions they have made as individuals to the Baldwin community. The highest honor, The Baldwin Award — given to a senior who has distinguished herself in pursuit of excellence in academics, the arts, leadership, service and sensitivity to others — was awarded to Hayden Ivey ’16. Other awards include: The Baldwin Class of 2003 Award, endowed by the members of the
Class of 2003, commends an Upper School student for her dedication to academic pursuits, creative approach to leadership and strong sense of class unity. This year, the Class of 2003 Award was given to Isabel Senior ’16. The Baldwin Class of 2002 Award, established by the parents of the Class of 2002, is given to the senior who, through her personality and character, has made her class special for its members. The award recognizes the winner’s sensitivity toward others, kindness, dedication and approachability. This year, it was awarded to Mae Evans ’16. The Baldwin Class of 1998 Award commends an Upper School student for her achievement, perseverance and determination in the face of challenges. This year it was awarded to Margo Schoenberg ’16.
Sally Powell presents The Baldwin Award to Hayden Ivey ’16.
The Rachel Shao Sun Award is a memorial tribute to a Baldwin mom and Board of Trustees member. This honor is awarded to a senior who has exhibited academic excellence, leadership, warmth, good humor and the ability to be a true friend: Sara Seyedroudbari ’16. The Caroline Simon Award given in honor of Caroline Simon, a former Trustee, goes to the Junior or Senior who, in the judgment of the Upper School faculty, has completed during the academic year an outstanding project, activity or body of work that
Grade 5
Moving Up Ceremony Gracie Gaber ’23 received the Baiba Vasys Core Values Award. Given in honor of the retired Lower School Director, the award recognizes a Grade 5 student who best exemplifies Baldwin’s core values of learning, honesty, respect, compassion and responsibility. In addition to her personal accomplishments, Gracie also has made success possible for others.
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Above: Congratulations to the Class of 2023, Class of Gold. Left: Gracie Gaber ’23 receives her award from Sally Powell.
demonstrates creativity, willingness to take a risk and sustained effort in the pursuit of academic excellence. This year the Simon Award has been given to an artist who has created a rich and imaginative body of work: Aurora Guo ’16. The Phi Beta Kappa Award is given to a student who embodies the ideals of academic achievement, character and a love of wisdom and learning. This year it was awarded to Sophia Block ’16. The National Merit Scholarship Corporation recognized two Baldwin seniors as finalists this year: Angela Luo ’16 and Sara Seyedroudbari ’16. The winner of the National Merit Scholarship is Angela Luo ‘16. The Society of Women Engineers recognizes and honors high school women who have demonstrated excellence in the fields of mathematics and science for three years. Certificates were presented to Morgan Steelman ’16, Danielle Foltz ’16 and Ellen Zhang ’16.
The Arts Achievement Award, presented at the Arts Banquet in March, was given to a senior whose soul, spirit, enthusiasm, dedication and talent have been felt throughout the greater arts department — music, drama, dance and the visual arts. This year’s recipient was Alexa Kent ’16. The Coughanowr Linguistics Award honors the teaching and learning of language. This year it was awarded to Rachel Sutor ’16. The Baldwin School Academic Athlete College Scholarship honors a student who demonstrates academic strength as well as athletic contribution. The award has been given to Samantha O’Keefe ’16. The Fourteen Year Club recognizes students who have been at Baldwin from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12. This year there are 10 new members: Gabrielle Cohen, Samantha Dewey, Olivia Horwitz, Julia McAleese, Lily Ann Raynes, Margo Schoenberg, Isabel Senior, Morgan Steelman, Kristy Wong and Noelle Zimmerman.
The Thirteen Year Club recognizes students who have been at Baldwin from Kindergarten through Grade 12. This year there are 10 new members: Ruth Diamond, Quinn Funston, Gabrielle Greenberg, Julia Greitzer, Hayden Ivey, Amanda Kichline, Davis Madeja, Caroline Rosen, Alexandra Scannell and Shayna Silverman.
For a list of students who received Junior Book Awards, Department Awards and certificates for Outstanding Contributions to the Life of the Upper School, please visit the news section of our website at www.baldwinschool.org. To see photos from US Class Day and Grades 5 and 8 Moving Up ceremonies, please visit baldwinschool.smugmug.com.
Grade 8
Moving Up Ceremony Juliana Charles ’20 received the Ruth Fiesel ’38 Award in recognition of her contributions to the life of the Middle School. Juliana is a leader by example. She has an incredibly positive attitude and makes an effort to help others feel comfortable and welcome in any setting. Juliana is eager to learn and always approaches new or different ideas with a can-do spirit, both in the classroom and on the playing field. Juliana recognizes that little things make the difference and in many ways, her actions embody the Middle School
Above: Congratulations to the Class of 2020, Class of Green. Left: Juliana Charles ’20 receives her award from Grade 8 Dean Stephanie Wujcik-Griffin.
Agreement.
Summer 2016 Echoes
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Academics Ali Scannell ’16, Rebecca Brown ’16, Cat Carpenter ’16, Jeffrey Goldader, William Borucki, April Bao ’17, Courtney Loomis ’17 and Frannie Bell-Taylor ’16 enjoy this special visit.
Renowned Scientist Visits Baldwin
New Orleans Domestic Service Learning Trip During Spring Break, 13 Middle School students experienced many service and cultural activities in New Orleans. The group explored various parts of the city, including the Ninth Ward, Mid-City and the French Quarter. The girls learned more about the rebuilding efforts since Hurricane Katrina and tried a variety of New Orleans foods such as jambalaya, gumbo, red beans and rice and Louisiana favorites crawfish and beignets. Community service projects included packaging 4,725 pounds of sweet potatoes and 1,120 pounds of rice for distribution throughout southern Louisiana via Second Harvest Food Bank. The students also helped to clear an abandoned lot in the Ninth Ward of debris and weeds to continue efforts to restore neighborhoods devastated by Hurricane Katrina. They also revitalized a favorite walking path in City Park. This was the first time Middle School students participated in a domestic service learning trip outside of Pennsylvania, and based on the group’s response, it won’t be the last!
First Grade “Travels” to Greece Our first graders took a pretend trip to Greece this spring. They packed their suitcases and passports, and after passing through customs they boarded the makeshift plane and took to the blue skies. Pretending to land in Athens, the girls left the plane and viewed a slideshow of Greece and its capital city. A sugar cookie decorated as the country’s flag, blue and white stripes, was enjoyed by all travelers. 8
William J. Borucki, the Benjamin Franklin Medal Laureate for the 2016 Bower Award and Achievement in Science, visited Baldwin’s Upper School Science Department this spring. Borucki spent most of his career working at NASA, where he developed heat shields for the Apollo Command Module, searched for lightning on other planets in our solar system and was part of the team for the Cassini Huygens lander to study the atmosphere of Saturn’s largest known moon, Titan. Later, Borucki was the principal investigator for the Kepler satellite, which is said to be one of the most successful exploration endeavors in history as it confirmed that our galaxy contains an enormous number of planets that could potentially support living organisms. Borucki spoke about his life’s work to Baldwin’s Astronomy class and encouraged them to study the basics of physics, math, chemistry and biology, as well as English, history and other humanities.
Grade 7 Attends Leadership Retreat The students in 7th grade attended a leadership retreat that provided the girls an opportunity to learn and practice leadership skills. Through various team-building activities, the students learned to work together and how to lead in a group setting. Elena Winter, Julie Brose, Wynne Conger and Chloe McEntyre (seated) show off their Soap Box derby car.
Grade 4 Wax Museum
Grade 5 Soap Box Derby Cars The final DREAM Lab® project of the school year for Grade 5 introduced students to engineering principles while they worked together to build team Soap Box derby cars. Once the cars were designed and built, the students raced them in a nearby parking lot with family members cheering them on.
Baldwin Participates in Google Expeditions
This spring, Baldwin was chosen to be a pilot school for Google’s Expeditions Pioneer Program. Students in all three divisions were able to take some fantastic virtual field trips around the world with teachers guiding the way. Baldwin’s students “traveled” to London, Iceland, Mount Everest, Machu Picchu, under the sea and many other places around the globe. Using cardboard viewers with a smartphone, students were immersed in a group adventure. During the experience students asked questions, listened to the narrative from their teachers and discussed with each other about what they viewed.
This project began as the students returned from Spring Break, when they were given the topic of a famous person linked with Pennsylvania to research. They were asked to choose a person, read, take notes, create an outline, write a report and a speech, design a tri-fold display and a Prezi iPad presentation. The culmination of all their hard work was the Wax Museum, where family and friends came to view each student’s costume and presentation.
Students Present Science Papers in Puerto Rico In March, four Baldwin students who participate in the Physicians Scientist Training Program (PSTP) were selected to present papers at the National Minority Trainee Research Forum in San Juan, Puerto Rico. PSTP is a remarkable program through Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas, TX, that provides opportunities for students of color to experience science both in research and medicine. Of the 60 trainees selected to present at the forum, Baldwin’s students represented the largest contingent from one school nationally. The student presenters were Madison Sanders ’17 - “The Effect of Sie 1 and Yaa Gene loci on Antinuclear Antibody Production in B6 Mice”; Ayanna Joyner ’16 - “The Effects of Passaging on Dengue Virus in Dendritic, Vero and C6/36 Cells”; Alexis Mosley-McLemore ’17 - “The Spine Morphology of Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progress on Mutant Mice and Wildtype Mice”; and Carly McIntosh ’18 - “Stable and Efficient Transfection of siRNA for Mutated K-Ras Silencing Using Novel Hybrid Nanoparticles.” Baldwin alumna Kennedy Johnson ’14 also presented at the forum on her research “The Presence and Progression of Emphysema in Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) - Infected Individuals.” Kennedy is a student at SMU who interned in a lab at St. Paul’s Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver. Summer 2016 Echoes
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Arts 2016 Arts Day On March 9, Arts Day began with an Upper School assembly with COMETRY, an exciting and energetic art form that blends performance poetry and stand-up comedy into clean and clever entertainment. Students then broke up into groups to attend various workshops, including a beginners mime workshop, vocal arranging, stage make-up, maskmaking, portrait drawing, yoga and singing, floral art, modern dance, ukulele, hat design, improvisational theater and beat-boxing.
Maskers Present “Into the Woods” This spring, Baldwin’s Maskers Club presented “Into the Woods” in the new Simpson Center for the Performing Arts in Honor of Lois Goutman. The fairy tale that twists into a modern musical earned the cast four nominations for this year’s Greater Philadelphia Cappies Gala. Special congratulations to Emily Thompson ’18 who took home the award for Best Underclassman Critic for her wonderful reviews.
Kindergarten Art Show Highlights of this year’s Kindergarten Art Show included a collection of beautiful artwork the students created throughout the year and several musical numbers.
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Music in the Parks On May 14, the Middle School Chorus and Orchestra went to Hersheypark for the Music in the Parks competition. Both groups earned a rating of excellent and received a 1st place trophy.
Night of Monologues DISCOURSE (Or an Ethnography of Worlds Experienced) was a senior project created by Aiesha Muhammad ’16 that used monologues crafted by adolescents for the purpose of capturing the unique and mercurial perspectives of the youth as they grow and affect society and as society changes and sculpts them in return. The evening featured monologues of youths from varying backgrounds of public and private schooling, to explore immortal questions of life such as: What is love? What is happiness? What is life? Where is peace? The monologues encouraged the audience to think about how our environment shapes our outlook on life and whether these variables honestly alter the core of our experiences.
Middle School Art Exhibit and Concert An art display from all Middle School students featured paintings, prints, drawings, sculpture, ceramics and jewelry. After a reception in the FackenthalPethick Gallery, guests made their way to the Simpson Center for the musical portion of the evening. The Middle School chorus and orchestra was joined by the instrumental chamber group Malala and the Grade 8 Handbell Ensemble.
Senior Art Show Sam Dewey ’16 and Aurora Guo ’16 hosted a two-person art exhibition this spring in the Fackenthal-Pethick Art Gallery. Sam displayed landscapes and figures in oil and charcoal, while Aurora created Chinese character installations of her photographs of landscapes and people.
Grade 5 Performs “Cinderella” This year’s Grade 5 play was the musical “Cinderella.” This performance traditionally emphasizes class collaboration on acting, singing and choreographing the play. This year the students had the wonderful advantages of being in a theater setting and using the lighting and sound systems of the new Simpson Center. The students were also able to use the Drama Department’s costumes and props.
Upper School Art Exhibit The end-of-the-year Upper School art exhibition was a highlight for the art department. All five studios (painting, sculpture, ceramics, jewelry and photography) filled the FackenthalPethick Gallery and spilled out into the surrounding courtyard.
Summer 2016 Echoes
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Athletics Nine Student-Athletes Commit to Colleges Nine student-athletes from the Class of 2016 have announced their intentions to participate in collegiate athletics next year: Front row: Maddy Carré (Skidmore College, field hockey); Rachel Sutor (Hamilton College, crew); Ellie Greenberg (Middlebury College, soccer and track & field); Angela Luo (Columbia University, squash); Noelle Zimmerman (Gettysburg College, softball); Back row: Olivia Horwitz (Columbia University, squash); Morgan Steelman (Princeton University, squash); Samantha O’Keefe (Moravian College, softball) and Danielle Hammond (Virginia Commonwealth University, basketball).
4x400m Relay Team Wins Inter-Ac, PAISAA State Championships
Middle School Softball Goes Undefeated
Baldwin’s Track and Field 4x400m relay team of Jennifer Dietrich ’17, Ellie Greenberg ’16, Absara Irgau ’18 and Sarah Park ’16 captured the program’s first-ever Inter-Ac League title at the league championships held on May 14 at Jennifer Dietrich ’17, Ellie Greenberg ’16, Sarah Park ’16 William Penn Charter School. The team and Absara Irgau ’18 celebrate their win. set a school record with a time of 4:01.9, narrowly missing out on the Inter-Ac League record time of 4:01.7. At the 2016 Pennsylvania Independent Schools Athletic Association (PAISAA) State Championship meet held on May 18 at The Hill School, the same 4x400m relay team won a first place gold medal with a time of 3:58.83.
Golf & Tennis Outing: Save the Date The second annual Golf and Tennis Outing to benefit Baldwin Athletics will be held on Monday, September 12 at Green Valley Country Club. Sponsorship opportunities are still available and registration is online. All proceeds benefit the student-athletes.
Polarpalooza Blue Gray and BRAVA joined forces to host the first-ever Polarpalooza spring athletics and music festival on May 6. Due to the rainy weather, the softball and lacrosse varsity games were cancelled. However, the school community enjoyed a BBQ, music concert and movie together. 12
(Bottom Row): Blake Landow ’22, Ainsley Steele ’22, Kaya Weiser ’22; (Middle Row): Sammy Baron ’20, Talia Viroslav ’20, Elise Kait ’21, Bradleigh Bell ’20; (Top Row): Head Coach Arlyn Landow (P ’22, ’24, ’25), Alexa May Richards ’20, Taylor Levinson ’21, Tessa Pearlstein ’21, Amaris Baker ’21, Abigail Dubinski ’21, Anna Danowitz ’21. The Middle School “A” softball team finished the 2016 spring season with an undefeated 10-0 record. The Polar Bears, under the direction of firstyear Head Coach and Baldwin parent Arlyn Landow (P ’22, ’24, ’25), a former member of the University of Pennsylvania softball team, outscored their opponents 147 to 9. The team batted .498, had an onbase percentage of .662 and racked up 112 hits, nine of which were home runs. The future of Baldwin softball looks bright with this young and talented team.
2016 Athletics Association Awards Banquet Winners Jasmine Greytok ’17, Sally Chen ’17, Rachel Sutor ’16 and Zara Wenzinger ’17 practice on the Schuylkill River.
Crew Finishes Season Strong The Varsity Lightweight Quadruple Sculls crew of Jasmine Greytok ’17, Rachel Sutor ’16, Olivia Lanchoney ’17 and Zara Wenzinger ’17 won a gold medal at the Philadelphia Scholastic Rowing Association (PSRA) City Championships at the Schuylkill River. The Junior Varsity Double Sculls crew of Caroline Buchner ’18 and Sally Chen ’17 earned bronze medals. The Junior Varsity Quadruple Sculls crew of Julia Love ’18, Hailey Barnett ’18, Gabrielle Alston ’18 and Caroline Kiser ’17 also earned bronze medals. The Lightweight Double Sculls crew of bow, Zara Wenzinger, stroke, Olivia Lanchoney, earned silver medals at the Stotesbury Cup Regatta, the largest high school regatta in the world.
The Upper School Athletics Association Awards Banquet was held on June 6. The following student-athletes received awards for their contributions to Baldwin Athletics:
Special Awards White Blazer Award: Gabrielle Greenberg ’16
Pat West Award: Jennifer Dietrich ’17
Alice Comly Award: Samantha O’Keefe ’16
Lois Harlos Award: Olivia Horwitz ’16
Tina Roak Award: Hayden Ivey ’16
Ruth Davidon Elite Athlete Award: Morgan Steelman ’16
Margot Cunningham Award: Gabrielle Greenberg ’16 & Olivia Horwitz ’16
MVP Awards The Liz and Kate Braemer Volleyball Award:
Gabrielle Greenberg ’16 wins 2016 White Blazer.
Danielle Hammond ’16
2015-16 All-Inter-Ac League FIRST TEAM Emma Sass ’17 (Tennis) Lauren Wang ’18 (Tennis) Danielle Hammond ’16 (Volleyball & Basketball) Morgan Steelman ’16 (Squash) Sumrin Mudgil ’17 (Squash) Angela Luo ’16 (Squash) Grace Steelman ’18 (Squash) Marissa McGarrey ’18 (Lacrosse) Samantha O’Keefe ’16 (Softball) Noelle Zimmerman ’16 (Softball)
SECOND TEAM Gabrielle Greenberg ’16 (Soccer) Giavanna Vicari ’19 (Soccer) Samantha O’Keefe ’16 (Soccer) Caroline Kiser ’17 (Volleyball) Olivia Horwitz ’16 (Squash) Baila Mudgil ’18 (Squash) Kristy Wong ’16 (Squash) Myla Barnett ’18 (Lacrosse) Julia Kait ’19 (Softball) Samantha Martin ’18 (Softball)
& Caroline Kiser ’17
The Steffan Wright Tennis Award:
The Natalie Georges and Eric Miller Softball Award: Noelle Zimmerman ’16 The Lyn Hopkins Swimming Award:
Emma Sass ’17
The Julia Pudlin Cross Country Award:
Crew: Olivia Lanchoney ’17 Dance: Coco Wang ’16 Diving: Lauren Fosnocht ’17 Golf: Caroline Rosen ’16 Soccer: Gabrielle Greenberg ’16 Squash: Morgan Steelman ’16 Indoor Track: Absara Irgau ’18 Outdoor Track & Field:
Lila Williams ‘17
Jennifer Dietrich ’17
The Tracy Tunnell Field Hockey Award:
Most Valuable Manager:
Madeleine Carré ’16
Sophia Vu ’16
Elizabeth Bunn ’18
The Margaret Johnston Lacrosse Award: Hayden Ivey ’16
The Nancy Park Basketball Award: Danielle Hammond ’16
McGarrey ’18 Scores 100th Career Lacrosse Goal Varsity lacrosse attacker Marissa McGarrey ’18 netted her 100th career goal in Baldwin’s 12-7 victory against The Hill School in the first round of the PAISAA State Tournament. Summer 2016 Echoes
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Presenting the Class of 2016:
Class of 2016 College Matriculation: American University
Elizabeth Anapol
Amanda Kichline
Frances Bell-Taylor
Tian Li
Boston University (3)
Sophia Helena Block
Angela Luo
Bucknell University (2)
Alexandria Jacqueline Brittingham
Davis Madeja
College of Charleston
Imani Brown
Julia McAleese
Cornell University
Rebecca Brown
Ziyi Mo
Dickinson College
Catherine Meredith Carpenter
Aiesha Muhammad
Duke University (2)
Madeleine Carré
Khadija Munawar
Elon University
Gabrielle Cohen
Samantha O’Keefe
Gettysburg College
Samantha Cook
Chizoba Onyekere
Hamilton College - NY
Madison D’Amico
Sarah Park
Harvard University
Sophia Ann Deignan
Lily Ann Raynes
Howard University
Samantha Dewey
Caroline Rosen
Johns Hopkins University
Ruth Diamond
Alexandra Victoria Scannell
Loyola University Maryland
Mae Evans
Isabelle Schaeffer
Moravian College
Danielle Foltz
Margo Schoenberg
New York University
Deana-Lee Forbes
Isabel Beatrice Senior
Pace University- New York City
Quinn Funston
Sara K. Seyedroudbari
Nina Goodson
Shayna Brooke Silverman
Gabrielle Greenberg
Morgan Steelman
Julia Greitzer
Rachel Sutor
Xinlu Guo
Natalia Tackett
Danielle Hammond
Sophia Vu
Kejohna Hammond
Congcong Wang
Sophie Hogg
Weiwei Wang
Olivia Nicole Horwitz
Kayla Watkins
Hayden Louise Ivey
Kristy Wong
Ravyn Johnson-White
Ruoqian Zhang
Ayanna Sarah Emmanuella Joyner
Yujia Zhang
Alexa Patricia Kent
Ningxuan Zhou
Vriti Khurana
Noelle Samantha Zimmerman
Arcadia University Brandeis University
Columbia University (3)
Drexel University (2)
Emory University
Hampton University
Indiana University at Bloomington
Middlebury College (2)
Northeastern University (2) Pennsylvania State University - All Campuses Philadelphia University Princeton University Skidmore College Southern Methodist University The George Washington University Tufts University University of California- Berkeley University of Colorado at Boulder University of Delaware (2) University of Miami University of Pennsylvania (4) University of Pittsburgh University of Richmond (2) University of Southern California University of Virginia (2) University of Washington University of Wisconsin - Madison Virginia Commonwealth University West Chester University of Pennsylvania West Virginia University
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1 Baldwin’s 13-Year Club: (Front Row) Shayna Silverman, Caroline Rosen, Ruth Diamond, Gabrielle Greenberg, Julia Greitzer. (Back Row) Alexandra Scannell, Quinn Funston, Davis Madeja, Hayden Ivey, Amanda Kichline. 2 Rebecca Brown rings the bell after commencement. 3 Then Head of School Sally Powell takes a turn at ringing the bell. 4 Baldwin’s 14-Year Club: (Front Row) Kristy Wong, Gabrielle Cohen, Noelle Zimmerman, Margo Schoenberg, Isabel Senior. (Back Row) Samantha Dewey, Lily Ann Raynes, Olivia Horwitz, Julia McAleese, Morgan Steelman. 5 Chizoba Onyekere, Sara Seyedroudbari, Samantha Cook, Danielle Foltz and Madison D’Amico celebrate together. 6 Shirley Zhou, Ruth Diamond, Aurora Guo, Weiwei Wang and Aiesha Muhammad enjoy the day’s beautiful weather.
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7 Twelve members of the Class of 2016 celebrate commencement with their alumnae relatives: Row 1 (front): Anne Matheson Dewey ’52, Samantha Dewey ’16, Leah Silverman ’12, Shayna Silverman ’16, Gabrielle Greenberg ’16, Margo Schoenberg ’16, Isabelle Schaeffer ’16, Hayden Ivey ’16. Row 2: Julia Dewey ’12, Staci Carson Silverman ’87, Sara Greenberg ’05, Elizabeth Schoenberg ’10, Stephanie Cohn Schaeffer ’85, Kimberli Cohn Bailey ’84, May Geggis Holgren ’55. Row 3: Alexandra Scannell ’16, Laura Lewis ’81, Debra Cohn ’77, Row 4: Alexa Horwitz ’15, Olivia Horwitz ’16, Nancy Raynes Dubow ’79, Lily Ann Raynes ’16. Row 5 (back): Heather Brown ’14, Rebecca Brown ’16, Sophia Vu ’16, Vivian Vu ’14, Claudia Hogg ’14, Sophie Hogg ’16, Olivia Hogg ’12. 8 This year’s commencement keynote speaker was Valerie Biden Owens, Executive Vice President of media consulting firm Joe Slade & White Company and the campaign manager and sister of our nation’s Vice President Joe Biden. 9 Kristy Wong and Sophia Vu prepare for graduation. 10 Chair of the Board of Trustees Terry Steelman (P ‘16, 18) processes into commencement alongside 7th Head of School Sally Powell.
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Class of 2016 at a Glance • The Class of 2016 had 62 graduates. • The class earned 275 acceptances to 136 colleges and universities. • The students will be matriculating in the fall in 21 different states. • Nine students have committed to play college athletics at the following schools: Columbia University (2), Gettysburg College, Hamilton College, Middlebury College, Moravian College, Princeton University, Skidmore College, Virginia Commonwealth University. • Seventy-three percent of those who indicated a preference were admitted to their first or second choice college.
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1 Quinn Funston celebrates after graduating. 2 Isabel Senior shows off the charm bracelet created by Tuyet Wong (P ’16), which was given to each graduating senior. 3 Margo Schoenberg and Gabrielle Greenberg enjoy the bus ride. 4 Elizabeth Anapol, Sarah Park and Khadija Munawar get excited about the ceremony.
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“It is not hard to see that growing up at Baldwin is growing up in a world completely empowered by girls. The best athlete is a girl. The best actor and singer is a girl. The best scientist, writer, mathematician is a girl. We look up to and we reward girls for great things. This instills the importance of ourselves in the world. “This is the single greatest thing Baldwin does for its students. Baldwin gives us the courage to find and express each of our individual traits without fear and with more than enough confidence. We are prepared for the long road of potential sexism ahead of us because we can imagine ourselves in positions of leadership and success because we have already been there in the past. There are very few places where you can find a community so passionate about empowering girls.”
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— Excerpt from the commencement speech of Shayna Silverman ’16
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Friday 1 Gabrielle Niu ’06 and her mother Upper School Dean of Students Raphaelina Loke reminisce with Cynthia Schmalzried, math teacher, and her daughter Jamie Ryan ’06. 2 Kaitlin King Murphy ’01, Jan Pethick, Marissa Berlin ’01, Barbara Mungall and Becky Best Amis ’01 catch up at the Reunion Dinner. 3 P.T. Kevgas ’91, Jenna Ermold ’91, Stacy Feinberg Brylawski ’96, Julia Gordon ’81, Amanda Christine Geter Bazemore ’06 and Lisa Ameisen ’76 participate in the Career Day Panel with students from the junior and senior classes. 4 Lisa Ameisen ’76 and Danielle Foltz ’16, senior class president, present then Head of School Sally Powell with her own red blazer. 5 Shayna Fader ’11, Jenna Liss ’11, Elizabeth Auritt ’11 and Richelle Gewertz ’11 pose for the camera. 6 Susan Dorfman enjoys Coffee and Conversation with TraiAnne Peek ’11 and Margit Johnson ’11. 7 Ann Wood Gregg, Dona Murray, Lisa Ameisen, Julie Cunningham, Kevan Richards Wisniewski, Jewel Murphy, Karen Kania Roland and Claire Potter, members of the Class of 1976, catch up with one another. 8 Caroline Rosen ’16, Jean Kitchen Smith ’46, Betsy Brooks Stull ’46 and Vriti Khurana ’16 enjoy the Classes of Red Alumnae Luncheon. 9 The Class of 1991 celebrates their 25th reunion.
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1 Mary Leonard Robinson ’56, Barbara Dunlop Hauptfuhrer ’56 and Barbara Livengood Russell ’56 enjoy the Reunion Dinner 2 The Class of 1971 enjoys the Reunion Dinner - Nan Lester Maguire, Joan Steinmeyer Rosenberg, Andrea Hammerschmidt Felkins, Clive Hulick Connor, Kathy Halton and Betsy Kellogg Hamilton. 3 Elizabeth Auritt, TriaAnne Peek, Ally Kontra and Margit Johnson, members of the Class of 2011, reminisce. 4 The Class of 1996 after they won this year’s Champagne Challenge Cup. 5 Members of the Class of 1986 celebrate their win of the 1936 Reunion Challenge Bowl.
50th Reunion – Class of 1966 6
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6 Carolyn Grillo ’66, Nancy NorthrupBlack ’66, Elizabeth Heaps Russell ’66, Hope Henry Herbst ’66, Connie Berlinger Barnes ’66, Joan Herre Erwin ’66, Karen Roberts ’66 and Dorothy Muller ’66 enjoy the Class of Red Alumnae Buffet Dinner. 7 Erin Leff-Tucker ’66, Joan Herre Erwin ’66, P.K. Pakradooni Loeffler ’66 and Dorothy Muller ’66 at the Coffee and Conversation with current and former faculty. 8 Class of 1966 members Joan Herre Erwin, Connie Berlinger Barnes, Nancy Northrup-Black, Stephie Beck Mason, P.K. Pakradooni Loeffler and Dorothy Muller toast their 50th reunion.
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9 Alumnae and their families have fun at Saturday’s BBQ lunch. 10 Anne Pultzer Burns ’96 and her family enjoy the Alumnae BBQ Luncheon. 11 Lauren Sheerr Beshears ’00, Melanie Sheerr ’96 and Marisa Porges ’96 share Baldwin memories at the Alumnae BBQ luncheon. 12 Christina Salvitti ’11, Rebecca Gilbert ’06, Stephanie Salvitti ’09 and Lisa Ameisen ’76 reconnect during Reunion Weekend. 13 Kaitlin King Murphy ’01, P.J. King and P.K. Pakradooni Loeffler ’66 at the Head of School Reception hosted at the Krumrine House. 14 Margot Wheelock Schlegel ’46, Helene Zimmerman Hill ’46 and Jean Kitchen Smith ’46 remember their days at Baldwin during Reunion Weekend. 15 Sarah Parmacek ’11, Alisha Maity ’11, Lisa Ameisen ’76 and Brooke Simone ’11 visit Krumrine House during the Head of School Reception. 16 Erich Barchi, Rachel Shoemaker ’08, Becky Best Amis ’01, Kaitlin King Murphy ’01 and P.J. King toast Baldwin at the Head of School Reception. 17 Amy Sobel ’86 presents on the topic of human trafficking at the Ruth Hochberger ’68 Alumnae Speaker Series.18 Marisa Porges ’96 shares her professional experiences related to managing U.S. government counter-terrorism strategy.
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Summer 2016 Echoes
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National Board of Advisors Anniversary 1 Members of the National Board of Advisors past and present. 2 Sara Scott ’96, NBA President, welcomed all guests to the celebration. 3 Jennifer Porges ’83, Emily Klebanoff ’85, Brenda McBride ’84, Lyn Agre ’85 and Stephanie Cohn Schaeffer ’85 enjoy the NBA’s 25th anniversary celebration. 4 Carolyn Jones ’73 and Ann Cappalonga Bunn ’85 partake in the festivities. 5 Rachael Goldfarb ’95 presented Amy Sobel ’86 with this year’s NBA Award. 6 Ruth Hochberger ’68 presented Stephanie Cohn Schaeffer ’85 with the inaugural NBA Distinguished Service Award.
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class photos
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Helene Zimmermann Hill
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Anne Carrigan Dearden, Patricia Klumpp Masters
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Row 1 (Front) Barbara Russell Livengood, Janette Sun Albrecht, Ellie Chance Burgess. Row 2 Mary Leonard Robinson, Anne Riley, Susie Davidson Ravenscroft, Barbara Dunlop Hauptfuhrer
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Barbara Shearer Minsker, Antoinette Cutaiar Hoffacker
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class photos
1966 Row 1 (Front) Nancy Northrup-Black, Joan Herre Erwin, P.K. Pakradooni Loeffler. Row 2 Erin Leff-Tucker, Elizabeth Heaps Russell, Stephie Beck Mason, Lynn Converse Osborne, Marcia Kravis, Connie Berlinger Barnes. Row 3 Karen Roberts, Hope Henry Herbst, Anne Lucas Mesnard, Diane DeSherbinin Rogers, Carolyn Grillo, Dorothy Muller
1971 Row 1 (Front) Joan Steinmeyer Rosenberg, Ariane van Buren, Shawn Lacy. Row 2 Andrea Hammerschmidt Felkins, Clive Hulick Connor, Jennifer Casey, Kathy Halton. Row 3 Betsy Kellogg Hamilton, Helen Haskell MacCallum, Nan Lester Maguire, Mary B. Robinson
1976 Row 1 (Front) Debbie Hand Howley, Elizabeth Chesick (former faculty), Lyn Kolva McCarter, Lisa Ameisen. Row 2 Merin Urban, Julie Cunningham. Row 3 Jewel Murphy, Anne Balant-Campbell, Dona Murray, Jamie Weisbrod. Row 4 Ann Wood Gregg, Claire Potter, Kevan Richards Wisniewski
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class photos 1981
Row 1 (Front) Lynne Rosen, Lauren Goldstein Kahn, Stephanie Kattelman Cohen, Jennifer Biezup Leininger, Amy Pringle Jirsa. Row 2 Alexis Egan McCarthy, Julia Gordon, Linda Hadley, Robin Epstein, Diane Brunt. Row 3 Abby Siedlarz, Linda Rosenberg McGuire, Jane Lindley Meyer. Row 4: Bonnie McElroy Weber, Amy Black Pierce, Susan Braker Debbs, Tibby Lawley Samios
1986
Row 1 (Front) Ellen Jerrehian Conybear, Kirsten Glass Anderson, Mary Lyness, Amy Sobel, Laura Berkowitz Gilbert. Row 2 Frau Losconsy, Laurie Carson Berzack, Sharon Simkiss Merhige. Row 3 Jennie Lawley Herrmann, Kristin Dresden Cross, Jennie Silverstein, Mary Logan Boyers, Beth Karafin Lipson
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class photos
1991
Row 1 (Front) Jenna Ermold, Allison Walsh Finnerty, Natanya DiBona, Lisa Ameisen ’76 , Mary Travaglini, Jenifer Gross Slone, Barbara Losoncy, Jennifer Shin Lin. Row 2 Lori Frutkin Whelan, Sonia Kurtz Grasse, Elizabeth Duall Regard, Raven Kauffman Wittasek, Katie Goldener Brown, Rachel Carson. Row 3 Elizabeth Krause, Hilary Love Bader, Jodi Teitelman, Alicia Herrenkohl Nathanson
1996
Row 1 (Front): Maxine Baker Jackson, Juliette Anderson Galbraith, Jennie Kerson Pritzker, Marisa Porges, Joanne Tulin Lane, Sarah Christman, Row 2 Melanie Sheerr, Lauren Harrar McMichael, Stacy Feinberg Brylawski, Carolyn Cummings Addison, Carmen Hoyme, Row 3 Anne Plutzer Burns, Amy Brezin, Sara Scott, Kim Webb Palacios, Samantha Mandell. Row 4 Jill Harmelin Wheler, Stephanie Romeika La Nasa 26
class photos
2001 Row 1 (Front) Elizabeth Braemer, Marissa Berlin, Becky Best Amis. Row 2 Abigail Berman, Sarah Hershey Row 3 Kaitlin King Murphy 2006 Row 1 (Front) Lauren Andressen, Sarah Gignoux- Wolfsohn, Zarah Iqbal, Alex Stein, Danielle Behar. Row 2 Katie Collins, Winnie Cantor Sigal, Sarah Wood, Amanda Christine Geter Bazemore, Row 3 Gabrielle Niu, Blaire Weidler, Marisa Pizzi Riley, Adriana Massara, Alex Dignazio
2011
Row 1 (Front) Elizabeth Auritt, Richelle Gewertz, Margit Johnson, Alexandra Kontra, Jennifer Wigrizer, Adrienne Scott Row 2 Alisha Maity, TraiAnne Peek, Jenna Liss, Shayna Fader Summer 2016 Echoes
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Alumnae Awards
Claire Potter ’76
2016 Alumnae Award for Lifetime Achievement The Alumnae Award for Lifetime Achievement was established in 1991. It is given to an alumna who has either demonstrated a lifelong dedication and commitment to helping empower those who have struggled with challenges and societal barriers, or who has had a significant impact on an institution or community. Claire Potter is Professor of History and Director of the Digital Humanities Initiative at The New School. She is also a co-director of OutHistory.org, an LGBT digital history project and a Distinguished Lecturer for the Organization of American Historians. In her speech, Claire quoted playwright Samuel Beckett, who said, “Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail Again. Fail Better.” She applied this concept of “Fail Better” to both her professional work and her Baldwin experience. “For over 30 years, as a historian, teacher and writer, I have tried to fail better: for the last decade, I have failed better in a field called Digital Humanities,” she said. “Doing DH requires imagination, and thus, the courage to fail. Our work is punctuated by the question: what is the problem, and, how do we solve it? When something goes awry it isn’t a calamity, it’s an opportunity to learn more about how to do it right.” Claire received a B.A. in English Literature from Yale University in 1980, and a Ph.D. in history from New
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York University in 1990. Her historical research is focused on 20th century United States, with an emphasis on the recent history of gender, sexuality and crime in the media, and a developing specialty in digital humanities and Internet studies. Claire recalled her Baldwin years and the faculty members who shaped her academic approach. “Every day, I find myself drawing on, not what I learned, but how I learned here at Baldwin. My history teachers, Martha Hammer and Liz Schall, taught me the difference between spitting back other people’s ideas and having the courage to formulate, however imperfectly, my own. My coach, Margot Cunningham, taught me how to learn from a loss as well as a win, and commit myself to success.” Claire has made a career out of applying the lessons she learned from her Baldwin years; constantly learning — trying, failing, trying again and failing better. She is currently completing a collection of essays on academia in the digital age, Digital U: Why Crowdsourcing, Social Media, Word Press and Google Hangouts Could Save the Humanities (forthcoming, University of North Carolina Press, spring 2017); and a history of feminist anti-violence politics, Beyond Pornography: Radical Feminism and the Campaign to End Violence Against Women, 1968-2000.
Mary B. Robinson ’71 The Baldwin School Alumnae Award
The Alumnae Award was established in 1967 to honor Rosamond Cross on her 25th anniversary as Head of School. It is given annually to an alumna who has distinguished herself in her field of endeavor and whose life reflects a dedication to the principles of The Baldwin School. Mary B. Robinson studied theatre at Baldwin under Lois Goutman, and it was partly through her example that Mary decided while in college to try to become a professional theatre director. She has since directed more than 60 plays— classics, contemporary plays and new works—in New York City, Philadelphia and cities nationwide. In her speech, Mary discussed the profound impact Lois Goutman had on so many students over the course of her 42-year tenure at Baldwin. “Mrs. Goutman’s magnetic presence in the Workshop, and her lucid and beautiful direction of the great plays she selected for us to do, has propelled me through 40 years of a life in the theatre, with more to come, I hope.” Lois Goutman’s guidance and influence certainly paid off for Mary. She was nominated for a Drama Desk Award in 1986 for her direction of Lemon Sky by Lanford Wilson, was the recipient of
the first ever Alan Schneider Directing Award in 1987 and won Philadelphia’s Barrymore Award in 1995 for her direction of John Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men. In her speech, she expressed her pleasure with The Simpson Center for the Performing Arts in Honor of Lois Goutman. “It’s a wonderfully creative space, the way they’ve carved it up into a lobby, a green room and the performance space itself, which is so intimate and flexible. And I’m so happy to see Baldwin have a dedicated performance space once again.” Mary B. Robinson can appreciate a quality performance space in other capacities beyond a directorial role. She was the Associate Artistic Director at the Hartford Stage Company in the early 1980s and the Artistic Director of the Philadelphia Drama Guild in the early 1990s. Mary also followed in Lois Goutman’s footsteps as an educator. She headed the directing program at Playwrights Horizons Theatre School (a branch of New York University) for 15 years and has taught in the MFA directing program at Brooklyn College since the late ’90s. She served on the executive board of the Stage Directors and Choreographers Society, a national labor union, for 15 years and is the author of the book Directing Plays, Directing People: A Collaborative Art, published several years ago by Smith and Kraus.
Sara Scott ’96
Distinguished Young Alumna Award This award was also established in 1991. It is given to an alumna who has graduated within the last 25 years and has made significant contributions in her profession, avocation or volunteer services. Sara Scott is Vice President of Development and Production at Universal Pictures where she has worked on some of the studio’s most successful films and franchises, including Jurassic World, Pitch Perfect 2, Straight Outta Compton, Lucy, Oblivion, Unbroken and Ted. She also helps to oversee Universal’s Emerging Writers Fellowship. In her speech, Sara discussed how her Baldwin experience prepared her for a successful career and to explore any path she chose. “It was here that I was taught I could do and be anything,” she said. “I was encouraged to try new things, travel outside my comfort zone, explore the world around me, while knowing there were teachers and friends I could lean on, who would be there for me in both success and failure.”
Though her job is demanding, Sara is involved in several ventures to assist others within her field. She is part of American Film Institute’s (AFI) Executive Circle, a group created by female studio executives who serve as mentors to AFI’s Directing Workshop for Women’s annual participants and is a mentor through Women In Film. She also serves on the board of The Unusual Suspects, an organization that teaches theatre to underserved and incarcerated youth in Los Angeles. Sara is currently Chair of Baldwin’s National Board of Advisors. In her speech she explained why she remains engaged with the Baldwin community even though she graduated 20 years ago and lives a considerable distance from the School. “My answer is always, my 13 years at Baldwin played a major role in shaping who I am today and gave me the tools needed to succeed. Not giving back to Baldwin would be like not thanking my parents for everything they’ve provided for me. Unthinkable,” she said.
Award winners Sara Scott ’96, Claire Potter ’76 and Mary B. Robinson ’71 pose after the ceremony with then Head of School Sally Powell.
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Legacy
Profile
Baldwin Is About Family Jeannette Geter ’00 and the Importance of Active Alumnae Jeannette Geter ’00 is the oldest of four siblings who are all graduates of Baldwin. She attended the School for Kindergarten and Grade 1, and then Grades 5-12. A well-rounded student, Jeannette participated in athletic, academic and social activities including field hockey, crew, track, Black Student Union and Lamplighters. Jeannette credits Baldwin for giving her the confidence to explore all of her interests, which led to varied and dynamic educational and vocational paths. After receiving her BA in sociology from Haverford College, she pursued a graduate degree from the University of Chicago in Social Service Administration. After two years in South Philadelphia, Jeannette headed to the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, where she studied fashion design. The year 2010 saw her return to Philadelphia where she has worked at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, in Delaware County as a caseworker for Children and Youth Services and started her own leather goods company.
explore several avenues without fear of failure; I would always be supported in my choices,” said Geter. “I also gained great writing and speaking skills at Baldwin, which serve you well in whatever field, or in my case, fields, you choose.”
work with Women Organized Against Rape, the Food Trust and the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society. Jeannette is a shining example of Baldwin’s key values of learning, compassion, generosity and connectedness.
It may seem like Jeannette would not have time for much else with all of her academic and occupational pursuits, but she has also done extensive volunteer
Education has always been important to the Geter family. Jeannette’s father was a professor and her mother was an elementary school teacher. Her parents
When Jeannette moved back to Philadelphia from Chicago, she renewed her involvement as a Baldwin alumna, but it was the birth of her niece, daughter of her sister Marion Renee Geter
“Baldwin gave me the skills to pursue different options and the sense of security and freedom to know I could
Jeannette and her parents pose for a photo during a special Baldwin event. 30
took the search for a school very seriously. When they saw Dr. Crystal Lucky ’82 speak in the summer of 1986 they were inspired by her obvious dedication to academia and asked about her educational background. Upon discovering that she was a Baldwin graduate, they knew they had to learn more about the School. When they found the Baldwin community so welcoming and saw that academic excellence was a top priority, the decision was made.
have had classmates tell me how they “ Iremember my mother coming into our first grade class to read stories about black history. We remember each others’ younger siblings being born; we cheer each other on in our careers long after we have graduated.
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’03, that spurred her to take on leadership roles. “When my niece was born, I just assumed she was a future Baldwin girl, and it was important to me to make sure that she would be able to have the same Baldwin experiences my siblings and I had.” This brought Jeannette back to see if the School was the same one she had known; getting to know current students kept her returning again and again. This has led to positions on the National Board of Advisors, the Alumnae Association Executive Board and the Baldwin Heritage Network.
One of the factors that encourages Jeannette to continue her involvement is the enthusiasm she sees from current students. In the spring of 2015, Jeannette and her siblings spoke to current students as a group at a small dessert party during lunchtime. “I felt that, though they enjoyed the treats, they wanted to be there and to listen to us and speak with us even after the dessert was gone.” Since Baldwin is part of the fabric of the Geter family, Jeannette’s siblings are, of
course, active as well. Her youngest sister, Amanda Christine Geter Bazemore ’06, is on her reunion committee and her mother is still involved with the Baldwin Heritage Network and their annual Kwanzaa celebration. Jeannette’s brother, Ovid Amoroson ’02 is one of the most visible transgender members of the Baldwin community, providing support and outreach for current students. No one moment can define the Baldwin experience for Jeannette. “It’s so many little things; small classes, having close relationships with teachers, the feeling of support, all of these things just become part of your being,” she said. “Having all of my siblings in the School at the same time also made those years incredibly special. And I have to say, wearing a uniform all those years was influential in
stirring the desire to express myself through clothing and accessories.” As are many alumnae, the Geters are incredibly excited for Dr. Marisa Porges to take the helm as Head of School. Jeannette looks forward to Dr. Porges drawing in more alumnae to help current students appreciate the collective memory of former Baldwin girls, and to provide them with expanded networking opportunities. She hopes that, with her help and support from her siblings, the future will see greater acknowledgement of how some students’ differences will shape their experiences. As society shifts and changes, Jeannette hopes Baldwin will become even more supportive of those differences that add such texture to the tapestry of the Baldwin community.
“To me, Baldwin is about family,” said Geter. “I have had classmates tell me how they remember my mother coming into our first grade class to read stories about black history. We remember each others’ younger siblings being born; we cheer each other on in our careers long after we have graduated.” For the Geter family, Baldwin really was a family affair, with all four siblings attending Baldwin, and all four remaining involved in various ways to this day.
Jeannette and her siblings Ovid, Marion Renee and Amanda Christine don their Baldwin blazers. Summer 2016 Echoes
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Why I Give Pamela “Missy” Morgan - Faculty
Reading the words in this magazine is something most people would take for granted, and acquiring the skill to do so is likely not a memory that stands out. For Pamela “Missy” Morgan, however, learning to read is an experience that shaped her professional life, to the benefit of more than 20 years’ worth of Baldwin girls. An Early Calling, A High Bar: Missy Morgan has known she wanted to be a teacher since the third grade when, after having struggled with reading the previous two years but never asking for help, a special teacher reached her and made learning fun; reading finally clicked. From then on, her educational and occupational decisions were all made with the goal of becoming that difference-making teacher for other children. Missy attended Kutztown University, a “teaching college” and worked in summer camps to gain experience with children. At the end of her college career, another educator made a lasting impact on her future. While her own third grade teacher made her want to teach, her student-teaching supervisor helped her to see how she wanted to teach. “My supervisor had such high standards, that when grading one of my projects she actually took out a ruler to measure the lettering on my poster for consistency so that she could find some reason to deduct points,” she recalls. “While it may have been frustrating to not receive a 100% score, it inspired me to always strive for perfection and hold myself to an extremely high standard.” As she moved forward in her teaching career Missy made excellence the goal for her work at all times. This mindset, of course, made her a perfect fit for The Baldwin School.
Full Circle: Missy came on as a Kindergarten teacher at Baldwin not long after graduating from college and taught there for eight years before switching to first grade, where she has remained since. For someone who found their calling to be a teacher after receiving help with reading, first grade was a perfect spot, and it was here that Missy found her Baldwin claim to fame. Missy became certified in the Wilson Language reading and spelling program and introduced it to her students. This program teaches reading and spelling together; making comprehension a priority so students learn to write well in conjunction with developing their reading skills. “You might see students who can read all of the Harry Potter books but don’t write well, and those skills need to go hand in hand,” said Missy. “Students need to master comprehension and spelling to become good writers, and with this program we are able to teach those skills in a comprehensive way.” Missy introduced this program for K-3 and it will be brought to Pre-K this year as well. In addition to being a tangible benefit for her 32
students, being the bearer of this highly effective program is symbolic of Missy coming full circle from the little girl who had trouble reading to the loving teacher helping little girls learn to read.
Dedicated to Excellence: With her high standards, Baldwin has remained the perfect place for Missy to do her life’s work. The sense of accountability, the high bar and the expectation of academic excellence at every level has kept her dedicated to Baldwin all these years. This paired with the freedom to teach based on her students’ needs rather than state requirements and the family-like closeness of her colleagues has strengthened her connection to Baldwin year after year. “I brought my kids to campus to play and go sledding, I cut holly off of the bushes at Christmastime – Baldwin is such an important part of my life,” she said. “I feel like I am part of a family here, and I would much rather belong to a family than a union.” Missy is one of those rare people who doesn’t feel like her job is a job; she is able to do what she loves every day in an environment she respects. A Show of Support: Missy has consistently given to the Baldwin Fund for nearly 20 years. After hearing a faculty trustee member speak years ago she realized that the amount of the gift does not matter; what matters most is demonstrating her support for the mission of the School to which she has committed so much of her time and energy. Though never pressured to give, she knows that making a contribution, no matter what size, shows that you love the School, that you believe in what you are doing and that you care about the girls you are teaching. Missy believes that seeing the success of Baldwin girls throughout their school years and as they make their way in the world is an inspiration to herself and her colleagues to pledge their support to the Baldwin Fund and the opportunities it provides. “I hope that the next five to 10 years will see us continuing to embrace technological trends while maintaining our academic excellence and poignant traditions,” said Missy. “I know that no matter their size, my yearly gifts to The Baldwin Fund help make that possible and I am so excited to see what the future holds for our girls.”
closingthoughts Science teacher Dr. Susan Dorfman (P ’98) has spent the last 26 years at Baldwin, helping her students be the best they can be. She retired at the end of this past school year and reflects on her time at Baldwin.
What led you to Baldwin?
After a thorough search of area public and independent schools, my husband and I chose to send our daughter to Baldwin’s Kindergarten in 1985. We were both impressed with the creativity and care with which the Lower School faculty interacted with the students and excited by the educational opportunities available to our daughter. We watched her flourish. Years later, I decided to make a career change from a university laboratory and teaching/research position to teaching at the precollege level, and I accepted a position teaching Middle and Upper School science at Baldwin in 1990. I chose Baldwin for my daughter first and then for myself. After 26 years of teaching science in all three divisions—Kindergarten and Grades 5, 6, 7, 9 and 12—I continue to be impressed by the dedication and creativity demonstrated by my superb colleagues and the love of learning expressed by our students. The teaching of science to women is a mission for me. I was educated during the 1950s, ’60s and ’70s. At that time, most high school teachers and college professors in the sciences did not value the few women in their courses. Women were not treated equally or with respect. 52
Thankfully, there were always a few male professors who were the exception to the norm and gave me confidence to continue through a bachelor’s degree in biology, a Ph.D. in anatomy and then post doctoral fellowships and research. I strongly believe that young women benefit from the confidence they gain in a single-sex learning environment where female learning styles are rewarded and applauded. At Baldwin, I am thankful to have had the opportunity to promote and support women in science.
What positions have you held over the years at Baldwin?
students’ participation in the National Geographic Genographic Project. In addition, various grants allowed us to send five teachers, including me, to the intense, weeklong training workshop sponsored by the Network of Educators in Science and Technology in conjunction with MIT. All of these efforts improved the science experience at Baldwin.
I have served on numerous faculty and staff committees over the years, including four times as a member I would be remiss not of the Faculty/Staff/ to extend thanks to all Administration Council the wonderful Baldwin with a term as co-chair. parents and alumnae who I also served a two-year supported the sciences by term as a Faculty Trustee serving as guest lecturers that included a year on and funding science the Finance Committee. projects and grants. I worked on three search committees to hire Division Without their commitment, we would not have the Heads in both Middle and Upper School and spent five unique program of which we are so proud. years as a member of the Academic Committee. With What is your most a colleague, I organized memorable teaching and ran a professional moment? development in-service with Tim Wise, a nationally I was fortunate to share renowned diversity activist. the classroom with many memorable students. As Department Chair for Baldwin students love to five years, I restructured learn—in the classroom, in the Science Department, the halls and on field trips. hired 13 teachers, mentored Wherever they are, Baldwin many and worked with students take full advantage colleagues to secure grants of their faculty to engage that boosted science in conversation and share technology and funded ideas. Also memorable was equipment for robotics when I traveled to and clubs, gel electrophoresis taught classes in Taipei, and PCR equipment for Taiwan, thanks to a Reed the biology labs. I also Teaching Fellowship. The secured grants to fund the students were eager to Advanced Topics Biology engage in conversation and
very curious about school life in the U.S. The saddest moment was losing Alex Wake ’05, who was one of the most passionate learners I ever taught. For each test taken by my Grade 7 Biology students, I created a personalized test evaluation sheet. For one test, I hadn’t filled out the bottom checklist of strengths and weakness. Alex ran to the front desk and requested I complete hers. Those evaluations were timeconsuming, but whenever I considered not completing them, I thought of Alex.
What lessons do you hope your students remember? Science is an unfolding story discovered by students with coaching and enrichment from the teacher. I sincerely hope my students will continue to look for the story in all learning. A good story has a beginning, middle and an end that can be altered by random events observable only to those who pay attention. Paying attention and making connections requires knowledge of the basics in any learning endeavor. A firm understanding of what is known is the footing for the leap into the future. I hope my students will not fear errors and possible failure. Making mistakes is how we learn and mature academically, emotionally and socially.
Thank You!
Over $2.1 million raised. We are grateful to the many alumnae, parents, faculty, staff, grandparents, parents of alumnae, trustees and friends of The Baldwin School who celebrated Sally Powell and her legacy by making gifts to The Baldwin Fund. Your generosity demonstrates the strength of our mission and the commitment of the community to providing the finest education to our girls. Your gifts to The Baldwin Fund directly support the exceptional opportunities Baldwin offers to our students. From furnishing classrooms with the latest technology, to supporting our passionate and creative faculty, to maintaining our historic campus, unrestricted gifts to the School ensure an optimal learning environment for all Baldwin girls. Thank you for your continued support of The Baldwin School.
Head of School Dr. Marisa Porges (2016 - ), 7th Head of School Sally M. Powell (2006-2016) and 6th Head of School Blair Stambaugh (1980- 2006).
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701 Montgomery Avenue Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
Upcoming Fall Alumnae Events Save the Date
September 9 – Installation of Dr. Marisa Porges
The Hall of Fame was established in 2013 to commemorate the lasting athletic accomplishments of Baldwin alumnae, teams, coaches and the athletic administration.
November 4 – Philadelphia Alumnae Event
Baldwin induction ceremony Thursday, October 13
October 14 - 15 – NBA Fall Meeting
November 22 – Baldwin Thanksgiving Assembly and Alumnae Reception December 11 – Alumnae Winter Tea
Athletic Center
Look for alumnae regional events in a city near you as we welcome Dr. Porges as our 8th Head of School!
For additional inquiries, email alumnae@baldwinschool.org
Boston - DC – NYC – CT
6 to 9 p.m.