Derryfield Today, Winter/Spring 2010

today

Derryfield

T H E D E R RY F I E L D S C H O O L

NEWS FROM WINTER & SPRING T E R M 2 01 0

Commencement 2010 > The Value of

Service > Cleaning Up the Street

Unusual Notes Rob Fogg’s Instrumental Ensemble class tried out a new instrument for the spring concert, producing harmonious music using children’s toys.

contents Table of

2009-2010 BOARD OF TRUSTEES Steven Burke Chair Bedford, NH Nigel Donovan Treasurer Bedford, NH

DERRYFIELD TODAY

Preston Hunter ’98 Bedford, NH

Annie Branch Director of Communications

Paul LeBlanc Manchester, NH

Griffin York & Krause Design

Donna K. Lencki Candia, NH

Kirkwood Printing Printing

David Lockwood Manchester, NH

CONTRIBUTORS

Cathryn Vaughn ’91 Secretary Manchester, NH

Thomas Manson New Boston, NH

Cathy Sanborn Street ’86

Constantinos Mokas Manchester, NH

Kelsey Durant ’10 Brandan Rivard ’10 Vanessa Rodanas ’10 Christina Williams ’13

Bradley Benson ’78 Derry, NH Robert Chin Windham, NH Christine Cikacz Chester, NH James Davis New Boston, NH Dr. Louis Fink Bedford, NH Audrey Hammer Bedford, NH

features FEATURES

Serving Our Community

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by Annie Branch

Craig N. Sellers Head of School Manchester, NH

John Allard ’83 Manchester, NH

WINTER & SPRING 2010

Cleaning Up the Street

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by Cathy Sanborn Street ’86

Susan Grodman

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by Annie Branch

Christopher Morgan Amherst, NH ADVANCEMENT Daniel Muskat ’82 Bedford, NH Jeffrey Pollock Manchester, NH Janice Romanowsky Hampstead, NH

Diane Allen Alumni Coordinator Gail Gordon Advancement Office Coordinator Alice Handwerk Director of Annual Giving

departments DEPARTMENTS

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Message from the Head

Robert Spiegelman Londonderry, NH

Commencement Recap

Shelley Spierer Bedford, NH

Cougar Athletics

4 8 14

William Zorn Hooksett, NH

Breakthrough Spotlight

20

Update on Alumni Life After Derryfield

26 28

Faculty Profile

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Richard Sigel ’81 Manchester, NH

Jennifer Melkonian Assistant Head for Advancement

Around Campus

FRONT COVER: Seniors celebrate their graduation as they line up for the receiving line.

BACKGROUND: Lainee Shaughnessy ’14 dressed up for Roman Holiday.

TOP: Members of Mike Gerowitz’s Engineering and Design class test the load on a tower.

Derryfield Today is published by the Advancement Office at The Derryfield School. If you note errors, please notify us at 603.669.4524, ext. 2261 or send an email to abranch@derryfield.org. Correspondence may be addressed to: Director of Communications, The Derryfield School, 2108 River Road, Manchester, NH 03104-1396. The Derryfield School welcomes students of any race, color, creed, national or ethnic origin. The School does not discriminate in its hiring, admission policies, or programs on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, sexual orientation, or disabilities.

www.derryfield.org

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head

Message from the

Rooted in Community n independent school is unlikely to be stronger than its desire and ability to serve a public purpose. Since its founding, The Derryfield School has understood that an essential element of our character is our capacity to serve the community. In fact, “Community” is one of our core values, which we define as follows: “We seek a diverse community defined and sustained by close relationships, social interdependence, and service.”

Examples of serving the community abound, and you will see them everywhere in this issue of Derryfield Today.

Beginning in the sixth grade we practice the habit of serving so that, by the time one is a graduate, it would be unthink‑ able not to engage in some way—from holding the door for another, asking a stranger on our campus if they need help, or volunteering in the food pantry or an orphanage around the world, we work hard to have our students understand their good fortune, and cultivate their desire to help make the world a better place. This magazine contains evidence that we are on the right track, and yet sure‑ ly our work must continue.

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Harder to measure than “We seek a diverse hours spent, meals served, community defined or dollars donated is how the service projects have and sustained by close changed the hearts relationships, social and minds of those— our faculty, staff and interdependence, students—who have done and service.” the serving. Time and time again our students speak about how they had intended to help others, and realized they were helping, and educating, themselves just as much. Again, my hope is that you hear these voices in this issue of our magazine.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. said “Everyone can be great because everyone can serve.” In addition to reinforcing your connection to our great school, I trust this issue will give you some further insight into the greatness in our student body, and the adult members of the Derryfield community.

Stay well, stay in touch, and continue the value of service —in this way, we will all continue to make our world and our school a better place.

Craig N. Sellers Head of School

Derryfield Today – Spring 2010

AUGUST – NOVEMBER

events I M AG E S F R O M S P R I N G T R I P S For more photos, visit our online gallery in the ‘About Derryfield’ section of www.derryfield.org.

calendar

AUGUST Breakthrough Celebration

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Fall Varsity Preseason Begins

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Class Retreats

31

SEPTEMBER Class Retreats

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First Day of Classes

2

Back to School Picnic

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Parents’ Night

16

All-School Talent Show

24

Lyceum Gallery Reception

24

Tennis Tournament

25

Country Fair

25

Reunion Class Parties

25

OCTOBER Grandparents’ and Special Guests’ Day

1

Breakthrough Super Saturday

30

NOVEMBER Lyceum Gallery Reception

5

Middle School Musical

5&6

Admission Open House

14

Breakthrough Super Saturday

20

Alumni Games

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DERRYFIELD

alumni

weekend Clockwise from top right: Students gather for a photo in Berlin, Germany. Devin Walker ’11 and Reed Gilroy ’11 work on a roof for Habitat. Katherine Schwope ’13 is all smiles as she plays with a group of boys in th eDominican Republic. Sierra Goodson ’14 poses with some new friends. Ryan Stevenson ’12 looking over the beaches in Normandy, France. Derryfield volunteers in front of the Habitat house they built in North Carolina.

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Don’t miss Alumni Weekend 2010, September 24 & 25! Catch up with classmates and visit campus for Country Fair and more fun events.

Classes ending in “5” and “0” will also have individual gatherings. See page 31 for details.

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STORIES Founders’ Day Alumni Essay Contest Busy Artists An Updated www.derryfield.org Independent Senior Projects

2010 WRITING AWARDS NON-FICTION AWARDS: 1st: Kaitlin Fink ’11 2nd: Sophia Moser ’10 3rd: Samantha Hough ’10 FICTION AWARDS: 1st: Margaret Cochrane ’12 2nd: Kimberley Selwyn ’11 3rd: Jamie Ducharme ’11 3rd: William Keller ’10 POETRY AWARDS:

Founders’ Day The Derryfield School celebrated Founders’ Day on Friday, April 30. The community gathered to honor the School’s Founders with a special assembly in the Performing Arts Auditorium.

Alexa Warburton ’05, the 2004 Peter S. Freedman Founders’ Scholar, was the fea‑ tured speaker for Founders’ Day 2010.

Alexa is a recent graduate of Middlebury College and is currently engaged in a paid internship at the Companion Animal Hospital in Selins Grove, PA, as she pre‑ pares for a career in veterinary medicine.

Megan Tingley ’82 was named the recipi‑ ent of the Distinguished Alumni Award for 2010. Megan is a Senior Vice President and Publisher of Little, Brown Books for Young Readers.

2009 Peter S. Freedman Founders’ Scholar Brandon Wilson ’10 gave the Founders’ Scholar Address and presented the 2010 Founders’ Scholar Award to Kaitlin Fink ’11. Brandon will be attending Hamilton College in New York in the fall.

1st: Alisa de Bruyn Kops ’11 2nd: Kaitlin Fink ’11 3rd: Kimberley Selwyn ’11 HM: Adam Spinella ’10 Check out the Fall 2010 issue of Excerpt to read this student work.

Derryfield Founders gathered on Founders’ Day.

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Distinguished alumna Megan Tingley ’82, Founders’ speaker Alexa Warburton ’05, Founders’ Scholar Brandon Wilson ’10, and Head of School Craig Sellers.

Alumni Essay Contest The following is an excerpt from Will Keller ’10’s winning essay from the fourth annual Alumni Essay Contest answering the question, “What lasting effects do you think your time at Derryfield will have on your future?” Will is attending Cornell University this fall.

“You are crazy!”

That was what my parents told me when I announced that I was taking an English elective with Dick Anthony for the final term of my junior year. My parents had good reason to believe I was insane.

Often called the most important year for college admissions, junior year put the pressure on to keep up the best grades possible. Mr. Anthony, often considered the hardest grader at Derryfield, was probably the biggest challenge I had yet faced.

Naturally, my parents worried that I would not be able to keep up my grades, especial‑ ly after my freshman year when I had Mr. Anthony and my English marks were

Derryfield Today – Spring 2010

AROUND CAMPUS

consistently and considerably lower than those of my other courses.

Choosing a class taught by Mr. Anthony over easier classes was a conscious decision I made, and for that, my parents called me crazy.

But I had spent enough time at Derryfield to know that it was the right decision. I entered Derryfield as a shy, soft‑spoken sixth grader with an appreciation for science alone. I will leave Derryfield as an outgoing, confi‑ dent senior with a love for English, mathematics, and history, as well as science. I believe that this remarkable transformation could only have occurred at Derryfield, because only Derryfield provides the necessary sup‑ port and encouragement required to make these decisions confidently and take risks...

Read Will’s full essay in the Alumni News section of www.derryfield.org.

Busy Artists Derryfield’s artists just can’t keep still.

In recent months, we have had stu‑ dents and faculty earn local and inter‑ national recognition for their creative work in theatre, music, and visual arts.

Stephanie Simonoff ’13 recently starred as the dark and conflicted title character in the movie Shelly, which was named as an official selection for the Festival de Cannes. Stephanie was challenged by playing a role so differ‑ ent from herself, but drew on her years of acting experience to bring the char‑ acter to light. The film’s appearance at Cannes will give Stephanie internation‑ al exposure as an actress. Closer to

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home, at Derryfield Stephanie per‑ formed in the upper school play, Marvin’s Room, was the 2010 Poetry Out Loud school champion, and recently took Mr. Spiegel’s improvisa‑ tion class. To learn more about the movie, visit www.shelleyfilm.com Derryfield’s favorite band, Tom Flash and the Lightning Band featuring Adam Gray ’12 on drums, won the 2010 High School Band Brawl spon‑ sored by Kraft Sports Entertainment at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, MA, this past June. Tom Flash was one of ten bands selected from the hundreds that applied to compete at the brawl, and they came out on top. The grand prize for winning the Band Brawl was a $1500 donation to a school music pro‑ gram, which has been donated to Derryfield, as well as a chance to open for Boston band Keep Me Conscious and a guest spot on the Totally Patriots pre‑game television show this fall.

Derryfield art teacher Andy Moerlein and local artist Donna Dodson have teamed up to create two majestic pieces of community art that have caused quite a buzz in both Portsmouth and Nashua, NH. The sculptures are based on the Moose Myth, about two moose brothers whose antlers locked during battle, but were freed by a child after promising to live in peace. Foster’s Daily Democrat and The Daily Portsmouth have both published stories on the Portsmouth piece, which is a 20 foot tall sapling sculpture that will be on display at 1 Market Square through October 2010.

An Updated derryfield.org The Derryfield School website has a brighter, bigger look! While basic navi‑ gation has remained the same, this new format for the website allows for an easier presentation of information and a wider page width. The front page of the site now has current infor‑ mation and links of interest, enabling visitors to see the latest highlights right up front. There are now separate infor‑ mation portals for parents, alumni, students and faculty, and visitors. Each portal will have information specific to a person’s ties to the school. Exciting enhancements being added to the site include a search feature, notifications, and academic information. The aca‑ demic portion of the site will be rolled out to students over the course of the fall term, with parent access being added later this year. Of course, the website is still the place to go for the latest information on what’s happening at Derryfield including announcements, news, and photos. Check it out at www.derryfield.org!

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Independent Senior Projects

by Ariel Berk ’10

Every spring, seniors are given the oppor‑ tunity to drop their classes and pursue an interest for the second half of the final trimester of high school. In the past, these Independent Senior Projects have ranged from interning at a law firm to learning how to make shoes. I took the chance to cre‑ ate a project that would help me determine what I wanted to do over the next four years in college. I have always had an interest in photography, writing, and design, all of which were reasons I chose to work with Annie Branch in the communi‑ cations office at school. My jobs have included writing news stories and taking photos for the school website, as well as learning how to design with Photoshop.

My ISP has not only been incredibly fun, but has been crucial in helping to deter‑ mine my decision to possibly major in communications next year. Here’s a glimpse of what other seniors did for their ISPs.

Grigoriy Androsov A strong interest in athletics prompted Grigoriy to create a project that consist‑ ed of learning more about physical training through the program Crossfit.

After spending the day at the Crossfit gym learning about exercise and health, Grigoriy came to school to help in the trainer’s office by stretching, icing, and wrapping injured athletes.

Steve Burke & Brandan Rivard Brandan and Steve have both been very involved in sports during their time at Derryfield, and their project’s goal was to revamp excitement and

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support of athletics. They updated and improved team pages on the website by writing coach bios, team goals, and detailed highlights after each game. In addition, Brandan and Steve created a 32‑page magazine called DSPN that is all about spring sports at Derryfield.

Ben Calegari One of the technology gurus of the class, Ben spent his ISP working under an IT administrator. Ben’s responsibili‑ ties included installing software and repairing computer problems. Ben is already experienced in this field and most of the repairs he did he found simple. But the hands‑on practice will serve him well in the future if he choos‑ es to work with computers, so all the practice he can get has been valuable.

Kelsey Durant Kelsey has already spent time overseas helping children, and for her ISP she worked at the Webster School in the immigrant refugee classroom. Working in a classroom that combined third through fifth graders, Kelsey’s job was to provide assistance for the teacher in order to give the kids more support and attention. Every day Kelsey did phonics with the fifth graders and math with the fourth graders, as well as helping with history, science, writ‑ ing, and tutoring.

ence the dynamic of a clinic. With plenty of funny stories, Ali was given a valuable insight into the responsibili‑ ties of an orthopaedic surgeon.

Jake Harwood Jake stepped out of his comfort zone for his ISP to try something new— interning with a professional wood turner making bowls, lamps, and candlesticks. Jake experimented with spindle and bowl turning, as well as using power tools to aid him. Because he has never done wood turning before, Jake’s project was, at times, frustrating, but the experience was worthwhile because it forced him to keep trying despite setbacks.

CJ Keyes With a love of music, CJ decided to spend his spring composing original pieces of music. He used the Ableton Live program on his computer to cre‑ ate “mash ups,” mixing parts of differ‑ ent songs to create a new piece. The song he shared with the School com‑ bined Passion Pit, AC/DC, Biggie Smalls, and the musical Rent. CJ con‑ fessed that his project was much hard‑

Ali Geffner-Smith After an accident while riding her horse, Ali became interested in orthopaedic surgery and interned at a doctor’s office for her ISP. Ali was able to watch surgeries, as well as experi‑

Jake Harwood ’10 turns wood.

Derryfield Today – Spring 2010

AROUND CAMPUS

er than expected, but he was able to create some unique and creative music.

Sophia Kouninis Sofia has a passion for music and spent her project working at Rockinghorse Studio. By seeing how tracks are creat‑ ed, as well as spending time with musicians, Sofia gained new insight into music. Learning how equipment in a recording studio works and how it affects the sound, Sofia’s ISP has changed her definition of music.

Cam Lencki Cam has been a Breakthrough tutor for a few years now, and for her ISP she taught middle school science and civics classes at Derryfield. Not only did Cam provide aid for the teachers she worked with, but she was also given the responsibility of designing her own lesson plans. Discovering the work teachers put into their classes, Cam has gained more respect for her own men‑ tors and is seriously considering teach‑ ing as a profession.

Jen Mandelbaum For her ISP, Jen worked with the Rockingham ambulances on an EMS team. Limited to observation, Jen was able to watch how the team members responded to calls in uncontrolled environments. Jen was able to see how EMTs react to an accident and provide aid right away. Not only was Jen able to observe in the field, but she also worked with administrators and gained insight into ambulance opera‑ tions as a business.

www.derryfield.org

Phil Melanson Phil will be a film major at NYU this fall, so for his ISP he studied the rela‑ tionship between books and their film adaptations. Phil chose over ten writ‑ ten works that he had not previously read and after reading them, watched the movies adapted from the text. His question was, “Is the book better than the movie?” He discovered that although most of the time the book is better, there are a few movie adapta‑ tions that he enjoyed more.

Heather Monty Having created her own non‑profit organization, Heather became the Conference Intern for New Hampshire Businesses for Social Responsibility for her ISP. Her responsibilities included: sponsorship coordination, general con‑ ference correspondence, and speaker and exhibitor coordination. She was a large part of designing and producing the NHBSR’s conference, which gave her the sense of the importance of her help and work.

jobs, Matt has been writing a grant for the organization that will, hopefully, benefit the organization and Nepal.

Alex Seiger By far the most talented builder in the class, Alex took on the task of creating an electric bicycle for his project. With a lot of trial and error, Alex figured out the right‑sized batteries and attach‑ ments to move the wheels of the bike without pedaling. A dozen sparks and mini‑explosions later, Alex was suc‑ cessfully able to ride his electric bike in front of the School.

Elise Shattuck Elise has always had a love for reading and writing, so for her independent project she decided to write her own novel. After weeks of both hating and loving the writing process, Elise start‑ ed the tedious job of editing her own work. Although her project has not been easy, Elise hopes that her work has strengthened both her writing and her confidence.

Matt Porat Through his travel to Nepal, Matt has become active in try‑ ing to better the lives of the people there. For his ISP he worked with Candy Chaplin’s organization in trying to raise money and awareness of the village in Nepal she has supported over the years. Along with many other

Cam Lencki ’10 works in the classroom with a middle school student.

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recap

Commencement

James Alenson Memorial Scholarship Established by the Alenson family to honor the memory of James Alenson. This memorial scholarship specifically recognizes a member of the Class of 2010 at The Derryfield School. The award acknowledges the recipient’s kindness, diligence, enthusiasm, wit, and an open will‑ ingness to always lend a hand to anyone in need.

Nicholas W. Alberts ’10

Alumni Award Given to a member of the senior class whose support and service to The Derryfield School best exemplifies the spirit of Derryfield as deter‑ mined by members of the graduating class and the faculty.

Heather E. Monty ’10

Art Award Given to a student who shows outstanding interest, motivation, and accomplishment in the study of art.

Chandra C. Taylor ’10

Chinese Award Given to a student who shows outstanding interest, motivation, and accomplishment in the study of Chinese.

Claire M. Dickey ’10

Citizens Bank Scholar Award Presented to an upper school student who is a graduate of the Breakthrough Manchester program, in recognition of academic excellence, exemplary service, and commitment in Breakthrough Manchester and The Derryfield School community.

Maeghan M. Provencher ’10

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The Class of 2010 Commencement ceremonies are about celebration, reflec‑ tion, and gratitude, but this year’s ceremony had a special focus on gratitude. On the morning of Derryfield’s 43rd commencement, word came to members of the Class of 2010 that their classmate, Claire Dickey, had been in a car accident and would not make it in time to process with her class.

After the shock subsided, students were grateful to learn that she had not been badly hurt and would be arriving late.

After processing into the Auditorium and being greeted

by Mr. Sellers and Rev. Cynthia Bagley, Alex Donovan deliv‑ ered the welcome address, speaking about three constants that defined her life thus far: school, friends, and family. She spoke with gratitude of the “endless support and encour‑ agement from the faculty during our time here, helping to shape us into the best possible versions of ourselves.” Alex said everything she has achieved would be meaningless without the friendships that she has formed, and she fin‑ ished by talking about family and how, “it’s their uncondi‑ tional, messy, clinging love that matters in the end.”

Former Dean of Students Tom Curley returned to Derryfield to deliver the commencement address and shared with members of the class his Three Rules: Always do unto others as you would have them do unto you; Don’t do any‑ thing stupid; and Always keep a sense of beauty and won‑ der about you. Mr. Curley encouraged the students to “think vertically,” considering future generations in the decisions they make in their lives. After a musical performance by Concer Choir, Brandon Wilson delivered the valedictory address, reflecting on the events of the past four decades that have brought global and environmental crises to a new level. Brandon asked the audience to think about the path that we have taken to arrive at this point, and to consider

Derryfield Today – Spring 2010

COMMENCEMENT RECAP

“how we will think of ourselves forty years hence.” After a recap of the Class of 2010’s time at Derryfield, Brandon told his classmates that they were ready to go, “having been given the tools we need to succeed at the next level.”

Class President Maddie Kramer presented the class gift to the School, leaving money to be split between athletics and the arts. Finally, the moment all had waited for, Chair of the Board of Trustees Steve Burke awarded diplomas to each member of the class. In his farewell address, Matthew Porat spoke of how he spent much of his education blasting away on the highway, living from one test to the next, until an injury forced him to exit the highway. He shared, “It was at this time that I began to explore the secondary roads, just as my teachers at Derryfield had always encouraged. Without a real map in hand, I found that I was able to pursue some of the things that had piqued my interest, but to which I had previously been able to afford only the occasional, cursory glance. It is truly on these back roads of life that we come into our own, both as students and as human beings.”

Matthew said that, though each member of the senior class has chosen a different route, they all reached the same desti‑ nation. He urged his classmates, when given a choice between certain and uncertain, to choose the unknown path.

After a musical performance by members of the faculty, Mr. Sellers announced that Claire Dickey had arrived, just in time to receive her diploma. She was warmly welcomed by her classmates, who then sang a heartfelt rendition of “Sing out for Derryfield,” and recessed to form a receiving line.

The rain held out just long enough for the class to be con‑ gratulated by faculty, family, and friends, finishing off a memorable and emotional day.

Class of 1994 Award Presented to the member of the senior class whose personal integrity, caring manner, and quiet strength inspire school spirit and higher aspirations in all of us.

Emily C. Anderson ’10

Community Service Awards Honoring those seniors who have given unselfishly of themselves in extending time, interest, and concern to the School and the community.

Emily C. Anderson ’10

Matthew T. Porat ’10

Erin J. Ferguson ’10

Maeghan M. Provencher ’10

Heather E. Monty ’10

Brandan M. Rivard ’10

Vanessa A. Rodanas ’10

Dartmouth Book Award Given to that member of the junior class who, through pursuit of academic achievement as well as through participation in athletics and other extracurricular activities, has demonstrated a commitment to excellence and has otherwise exerted a positive impact upon the quality of student life.

Ann E. DiPastina ’11

Drama Award Given to a student who shows outstanding interest, motivation, and accomplishment in the study of drama.

Katherine S. Baroff ’10

English Award Given to the students who show outstanding interest, motivation, and accomplishment in the study of English.

Philip G. Melanson ’10 Caroline F. Thirkill ’10

2010 Peter S. Freedman Founders’ Scholar The Peter S. Freedman Founders’ Scholar Award is presented annually to that member of the junior class who has best combined academic achievement with personal responsibility, independence, and ethical sense.

Kaitlin E. Fink ’11

Friends greet Claire Dickey was she arrives at the end of the ceremony.

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COMMENCEMENT RECAP

French Award

Class of 2010 Given to a student who shows outstanding interest, motivation, and accomplishment in the study of French.

Kaitlin E. Fink ’11

Nicholas Alberts ............................................................ Mount Allison University Emily Anderson ............................................................................. Smith College Grigoriy Androsov ..................................................... University of New Hampshire

Harvard Book Award

Alec Avery ................................................................... Plymouth State University Katherine Baroff ...................................... The Hartt School, University of Hartford

Given to a junior who displays excellence in scholarship and high char‑ acter, combined with achievement in other fields.

Anuj J. Vadalia ’11

Craig Barstow .......................................................................... Whitman College Rubina Beg ................................................... Savannah College of Art and Design Ariel Berk .............................................................................. Denison University Steven Burke ................................................................................ Bates College Benjamin Calegari .......................................................... Northeastern University

History Award Given to a student who shows outstanding interest, motivation, and accomplishment in the study of history.

Christopher Coppinger ................................................. Roger Williams University Julia Cowenhoven ........................................................... Northeastern University

Brandon D. Wilson ’10 Andrew Cox ...............................................................................Emerson College Claire Dickey ............................................................................. Pomona College Tucker DiNapoli ........................................................................ Drexel University

Dennis F. Holland Mathematics Award Given to a student who shows outstanding interest, motivation, and accomplishment in the study of mathematics.

Brandon D. Wilson ’10

Brendan Dobbin ............................................................ College of the Holy Cross Alexandra Donovan ...................................................................... Boston College James Donovan .................................................. University of Southern California Kelsey Durant ..................................................................... Cedarville University Erin Ferguson ..................................................................... University of Chicago Alessandra Geffner-Smith ................................................ Mount Holyoke College

R. Philip Hugny Head of School Award Given in memory of Mr. Hugny, first Headmaster of The Derryfield School, to that member of the graduating class who, through all‑ around service, has made valuable contributions to the School.

Alison George .......................................................... University of New Hampshire Andrea Green .......................................................................... Boston University Adrianna Grimaldi ....................................................... University of New England

Timothy L. Reichheld ’10 Katherine Grisanzio ..................................................................... Boston College Jacob Harwood ............................................................................. Bates College

Marcus D. Hurlbut Head of School Award

Harmony Hazelton ........................................................ Montana State University Samantha Hough ...................................................................... Endicott College

Given in honor of Mr. Hurlbut, fourth Headmaster of The Derryfield School, to the senior who, by caring, leadership, and force of character, has been an inspiration to others.

Heather E. Monty ’10

Alicia Jacobs ........................................................... University of New Hampshire Dustin Kahn ......................................................................... Syracuse University Kaitlyn Kane ................................................. University of St. Andrews (Scotland) Kendall Kaspar ............................................ Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology Ellie Kaufman ....................................................................... Brandeis University

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Derryfield Today – Spring 2010

COMMENCEMENT RECAP

Matriculation List

Simeon Kass Award for Writing and Humanistic Inquiry Honoring Sim Kass, beloved mentor to two Derryfield alumni, Matt Boelig ’01 and Derek Boelig ’05, the Simeon Kass Award for Writing and Humanistic Inquiry is presented to a senior who demonstrates out‑ standing writing skills, an appreciation of other cultures, a burning inquisitiveness, and the disposition to take a position and challenge received opinions. A panel of faculty reviews applications for this annual scholarship.

William Keller .......................................................................... Cornell University Connor Keyes ........................................................................ Providence College Allen Khayat ......................................................................... Villanova University Sofia Kouninis ...................................................... Southern Methodist University

Samantha M. Hough ’10

Latin Award

Madison Kramer ................................................................... Villanova University Given to a student who shows outstanding interest, motivation, and accomplishment in the study of Latin.

Cameron Lencki .................................................................... Bucknell University

Erin J. Ferguson ’10

Katherine Lynch .................................................................... Occidental College Umer Malik ........................................................................... Providence College Jennifer Mandelbaum ........................................................... Brandeis University Emily Mastrogiacomo ............................................................ Providence College

Lamplighter Athletic Award

Kadina Mazic ......................................................... University of New Hampshire Adrian McLeod ................................................ Washington University in St. Louis

Given to the boy or girl who, through spirit, attitude, loyalty, and over‑ all performance, has been an inspiration to his or her teammates and a credit to the School.

Philip Melanson .................................................................... New York University

Cameron J. Lencki ’10

Kate Merges ............................................................................ Colorado College Heather Monty .............................................................................. Bates College Zachary Morgan .......................................................... Plymouth State University

Mayor’s Award

Sophia Moser .................................................................... Lewis & Clark College

The Mayor’s Award is presented to that member of the graduating class who has, throughout his/her tenure at The Derryfield School, demonstrated a high level of dedication to the ideals The Derryfield School stands for and has exhibited leadership traits worthy of emula‑ tion by his/her peers.

Matthew Porat ...................................................................... Middlebury College Maeghan Provencher ............................................................... Wellesley College

Maeghan M. Provencher ’10

Timothy Reichheld ......................................................... College of the Holy Cross Brandan Rivard ............................................................................. Colby College Vanessa Rodanas .................................................................... Cornell University

Music Award

Anthony Salerni .................................................. Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Given to a student who shows outstanding interest, motivation, and accomplishment in the study of choral and instrumental music.

Alexander Seiger ..................................................... University of New Hampshire

Alicia K. Jacobs ’10

Elise Shattuck ............................................................................ Kenyon College Adam Spinella ........................................................................ Dickinson College Jesse Stephens .................................................................... Keene State College

Clifford R. Nyquist Memorial Scholarship

Ashley Swartz ....................................................................... Assumption College Chandra Taylor ......................................................................... Wheaton College Caroline Thirkill ......................................................................... Barnard College Jillian Thompson ........................................................................... Union College Brandon Wilson ....................................................................... Hamilton College

www.derryfield.org

Established in Clifford’s memory by his family, this college scholarship award is given annually to a member of the graduating class who has demonstrated unselfish and enduring friendship to all, as well as gen‑ uine respect for diverse ideas and beliefs, and deep personal integrity and fairness. The recipient must have demonstrated a purposeful involvement in The Derryfield School and a meaningful commitment to our local and global communities.

Madison O. Kramer ’10

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COMMENCEMENT RECAP

William B. Pfeifer Head of School Award Given in honor of Mr. Pfeifer, third Headmaster of The Derryfield School, to the senior who, by loyalty, presence, and total commitment, has helped make Derryfield a better place to be.

Alexandra C. Donovan ’10

Physical Science Award Given to a student who shows outstanding interest, motivation, and accomplishment in the study of physical science.

Maeghan M. Provencher ’10

Ken Piatt Memorial Scholarship Award Given in memory of D. Kenneth Piatt ’82 to the boy or girl who com‑ bines excellence in athletics with outstanding achievement.

Brandan M. Rivard ’10

Rensselaer Medal Given to the outstanding student in mathematics and science in the junior class.

Anuj J. Vadalia ’11

Rotary Cup The Manchester Rotary Cup Award is given to a senior who is giving of himself or herself through strong community service and who shows the greatest promise of making a difference in the world through strength of character and qualities of leadership.

Heather E. Monty ’10

Scholar-Athlete Award Given to the senior boy and girl who best com‑ bine athletic ability with intellectual curiosity and academic achievement which, in the eyes of their teachers and coaches, distinguish them as being worthy of Scholar‑Athlete recognition.

Alexandra C. Donovan ’10

From top to bottom: Adrian McLeod, Umer Malik, Nick Alberts, and Dustin Kahn get

Brandon D. Wilson ’10

goofy in the receiving line. Tom Curley delivers the commencement address.

Senior girls line up before the ceremony.

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Derryfield Today – Spring 2010

COMMENCEMENT RECAP

Ralph J. Scozzafava Head of School Award Given in honor of Mr. Scozzafava, second Headmaster of The Derryfield School, to the senior student who, scholastically and athleti‑ cally, best represents the ideas and ideals of The Derryfield School.

William F. Keller ’10

Spanish Award Given to a student who shows outstanding interest, motivation, and accomplishment in the study of Spanish.

Alicia K. Jacobs ’10

Barbara J. Stahl, Ph.D. Life Science Award Given to a student who shows outstanding interest, motivation, and accomplishment in the study of life science.

Julia L. Cowenhoven ’10

Wellesley Book Award Given each year to that junior girl who has contributed most to the life of the School through leadership and good citizenship, while maintain‑ ing a high scholastic achievement.

Rachel E. Moss ’11

Matthew L. Young ’88 Memorial Scholarship To perpetuate the spirit and positive influence of Matthew Lawrence Young, Class of 1988, on the Derryfield family, this scholarship is awarded annually to that member of the junior class who, through enthusiastic participation in activities, significant contribution to the well‑being of others, and scholarship, has had an enduring impact on the Derryfield community.

Ian E. Will ’11

From top to bottom: Katherine Lynch bids farewell to Dick Anthony. Andrea Green and Sophia Moser are all smiles as the ceremony begins. Jill Thompson and Steve Burke are right on target.

www.derryfield.org

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athletics

Cougar

SCHOLAR ATHLETES Congratulations to our senior athletes

Winter wrap-up

who have been named Scholar Athletes for 2010 by the NHIAA and the NHADA.

Varsity Alpine Skiing

Varsity Nordic Skiing

To be recognized, each student athlete

Women: 3rd at State Championships (Div. IV) Men: State Champions (Div. IV) Alex Camerino ’12, Meet of Champions qualifier Scott Clutterbuck ’12, Meet of Champions qualifier Tessa Greer ’12, Meet of Champions qualifier Carla Nyquist ’12, Individual State Champion (slalom), All-Conference, Eastern High School Championships, Meet of Champions qualifier Jill Thompson ’10, Co-Captain, Class of 1970 Award, Meet of Champions qualifier Brandon Wilson ’10, Co-Captain, All-Conference, Class of 1970 Award, Meet of Champions qualifier

Kaitlin Fink ’11, Co-Captain, All-Conference, Skier of the Year, Class of 1970 Award, 2nd at Meet of Champions, Team NH for Eastern HS Championships Matthew Porat ’10, Co-Captain, All-Conference, Class of 1970 Award, Team NH for New England HS Championships

must have maintained a B+ grade point average, actively lettered in at least two varsity sports, participated in community service activities, and served as a role model to his or her peers. The following Derryfield seniors were recognized at an awards ceremony in February:

Steve Burke: Soccer, Basketball, Baseball Alexandra Donovan: Soccer, Lacrosse James Donovan: Golf, Alpine Skiing, Lacrosse Erin Ferguson: Cross Country Running, Nordic Skiing Samantha Hough: Field Hockey, Lacrosse Will Keller: Cross Country, Lacrosse Allen Khayat: Soccer, Lacrosse Brandan Rivard: Soccer, Basketball, Baseball

Derryfield’s 2010 Scholar Athletes with Director of Athletics Lenny McCaigue after the awards ceremony.

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Varsity Swimming Boys’ Relay: 3rd at State Championships (Div. II), 3rd at Meet of Champions Kendal Kaspar ’10, Class of 1970 Award, 3rd at State Championships Lucy Steer ’11, Co-Captain, Class of 1970 Award

Boys’ Varsity Basketball Season Record: 17-3 Class S State Championship Semi-Finalists Team Sportsmanship Award Winners Steve Burke ’10, Co-Captain, All-Academic, Class of 1970 Award Barrett Lamp ’11, All-Academic Brandan Rivard ’10, All-Academic Bryan Rivard ’11, All-Academic Anuj Vadalia ’11, All-Academic, All-State (1st team), All-Conference Alex Zorn ’11, All-Academic, Class of 1970 Award

Girls’ Varsity Basketball Season Record: 18-4 Class S State Championship Finalists Ed Lemire - Class S Coach of the Year Alisa de Bruyn Kops ’11, All-Academic Jamie Ducharme ’11, All-Academic Andrea Green ’10, All-State (1st team), Senior All-Star, Granite Games, All-Academic, Class of 1970 Award Bethany Kalliel ’12, All-State (1st team), All-Conference, Conference Player of the Year (South) Tayla Satkwich ’11, All-Academic Zoe Sobin ’11, All-Academic

OPPOSITE (clockwise from top left): The boys’ nordic team lines up for the start of a race. Brandon Wilson ’10 takes a tight turn. Alex Zorn ’11 goes high to block a shot.

Carla Nyquist ’12 flies down the slopes. Erin Ferguson ’10 takes on a hill in a nordic meet. Andrea Green ’10 goes for a rebound. Alex Seiger ’10 swims the butterfly.

ABOVE: Lucy Steer ’11 takes in some air.

Derryfield Today – Spring 2010

C O U G A R AT H L E T I C S

www.derryfield.org

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CONGRATULATIONS

sports

awards

Spring wrap-up

COACHES’ AWARD

Girls’ Varsity Lacrosse

Girls’ Varsity Softball

Steven Burke

Season Record: 10-5-1 NH Championship Quarter-Finalists (Division III) Ann DiPastina ’11, All-State (3rd Team) Alex Donovan ’10, Co-Captain, All-State (1st Team), Class of 1970 Award Cameron Lencki ’10, Co-Captain, All-State (2nd Team) Amanda van Duren ’12, All-State (HM) Madeleine Walstad ’12, All-State (HM Team) Charlotte Walters ’11, All-State (1st Team)

Season Record: 1-14 Maeve Mitchell ’11, Co-Captain, All-State (HM), Class of 1970 Award Emilyann Keller ’11, Co-Captain, Class of 1970 Award

Andrea Green

ATHLETES OF THE YEAR Steven Burke Andrea Green

TOP TEN CLUB Alec Avery Steven Burke Christopher Coppinger Brendan Dobbin James Donovan Erin Ferguson Kendall Kaspar Cameron Lencki Umer Malik Zachary Morgan Matthew Porat Timothy Reichheld Brandan Rivard Alexander Seiger Brandon Wilson

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN AN

Boys’ Varsity Crew Davison Cup Winners Jacob Harwood ’10, Class of 1970 Award

Girls’ Varsity Crew Boys’ Varsity Lacrosse Season Record: 17-1 New Hampshire Champions (Division III) Chris Hettler: Coach of the Year Alec Avery ’10, All-State (HM) Ben Calegari ’10, All-State (1st team) Chris Coppinger ’10, All-State (1st team) James Donovan ’10, All-State (2nd team) Jack Dowst ’11, All-State (2nd team) Will Keller ’10, Academic All-American Matt Milne ’13, All-State (2nd team) Nate Milne ’11, Div. III Defensive Player of the Year, All-State (1st team) Zach Morgan ’10, All-State (1st team), Class of 1970 Award Brandan Rivard ’10, All-State (2nd team) Ian Will ’11, All-State (2nd team)

Davison Cup Winners Aran Hubbell ’11, Class of 1970 Award

Boys’ Varsity Tennis Season Record: 10-3 Connor Keyes ’10, Class of 1970 Award Henry Morgan ’11, Class M/S Player of the Year, All-Conference Anuj Vadalia ’11, All-Conference

INDEPENDENT SPORT AWARD Elizabeth Aliotta ’12 – Track & Field

Girls’ Varsity Tennis Season Record: 15-1 New Hampshire Champions (Class M/S) Emily Mastrogiacomo ’10, All-Conference, Class of 1970 Award Rachel Moss ’11, All-Conference Aislinn Smith ’11, Class S Player of the Year, All-Conference

Boys’ Varsity Baseball Season Record: 8-8 Class S Sportsmanship Award Steven Burke ’10, All-State (1st Team), All-Conference, Class of 1970 Award Alex Jenney ’11, All-State (2nd Team) Marty McCormick ’11, All-State (2nd Team), All-Conference Timothy Reichheld ’10, Class of 1970 Award

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OPPOSITE (clockwise from top left): Brandan Rivard ’10 gets aggressive on defense. Aran Hubbell ’10 coxes the girls’ first boat. Emmy Keller ’11 on first base. Allen Khayat ’10 practices volleys. Boys’ second boat takes a power ten during practice. Cam Lencki ’10 in a faceoff against Kearsarge. Steve Burke ’10 winds up for a pitch.

ABOVE: Taylor Shomo ’12 warms up for a match.

Derryfield Today – Spring 2008

C O U G A R AT H L E T I C S

www.derryfield.org

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C O U G A R AT H L E T I C S

DSPN Magazine This spring, seniors Steve Burke and Brandan Rivard did a joint Independent Senior Project in which the final product was a 32‑page magazine highlighting spring athletics at Derryfield. Below is an excerpt from their reflection on the project.

Looking back on our athletic careers at Derryfield, we can attribute our growth and maturity to our time spent on the field, court, and diamond. We have experienced everything from exhilarating come‑from‑behind wins, to a heartbreaking State Final loss—but along the way we grew as athletes and as people. Through our experiences with high school athletics at Derryfield, we learned that there is more to sports than the goal of win‑ ning that we used to solely pursue. We learned the value of being on a team, bonding with our teammates, and playing for each other, as well as for our coaches.

We decided to pursue the produc‑ tion of this magazine to promote Derryfield athletics because of our great experience with Derryfield. At

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Derryfield, we are blessed with many dedicated coaches who work tirelessly to teach their players how to grow on the athletic fields and in life. This mag‑ azine is aimed at providing a micro‑ scope with which the efforts of some of these coaches can be viewed, as well as the success they help their players achieve. We would like to give a spe‑ cial thank you to all the coaches who have taught us valuable lessons about our sports and shown us how to respond to all aspects of competition.

Check out DSPN Magazine online at www.derryfield.org/athletics/DSPNs10.

Coaches Hall of Fame Each year, the New Hampshire Interscholastic Athletic Association, which oversees the post‑season tourna‑ ments for high school sports in the State, inducts all coaches who have completed 25 years of high school coaching in New Hampshire into the NHIAA Coaches’ Hall of Fame. There are a total of seven Derryfield faculty coaches who have reached this mile‑ stone, two of whom have retired from Derryfield, leaving five current faculty members who have amassed a total of over 135 years of coaching. Director of Athletics Lenny McCaigue honored these five coaches at an assembly this spring and had this to say about his peers: “If you were to ask any coach what kind of athlete they like to have on their team, most will agree that the one who is willing to play anywhere and/or do whatever is best for the team; these players are invaluable. As an Athletic Director, I can say the same

about all of the coaches being recog‑ nized today. Wherever and whenever there was a need, they all have stepped right up, and agreed to do whatever the School needed.” The five current Derryfield coaches in the Hall of Fame are Dick Anthony, Bruce Berk, Ed Lemire, Dennis Holland, and Paul Whitmore, in addition to retired faculty members Dudley Cotton and David Haight.

Triple Threat In The Derryfield School’s history, there has never been a Derryfield ath‑ lete who earned three state champi‑ onship titles in one year; however, that record was shattered this year by three students, all members of the state championship boys’ soccer, alpine ski‑ ing, and lacrosse teams. Alec Avery ’10, James Donovan ’10, and Matt Milne ’13 are this year’s triple threats, excelling as members of three determined teams that came into the season with specific goals for success.

These student athletes were led by passionate, experienced coaches Jeffrey Cousineau and Chris Hettler. Coach Cousineau has coached the boys’ varsi‑ ty soccer team to three state champi‑ onships and has the highest level of coaching certification in the United States. Coach Hettler has played pro‑ fessional lacrosse for the Boston Cannons and coaches the U19 New Hampshire Tomahawks. Both coaches have impressive credentials, but it is the passion they bring to their sports and their belief in the athletes that have brought their teams to this level.

Derryfield Today – Spring 2008

C O U G A R AT H L E T I C S

When you combine great coaching with talented and driven athletes, you get a winning combination. The boys on the soccer, alpine, and lacrosse teams all came within reach of a state championship last year (soccer was a finalist, alpine placed second at states, and lacrosse was a quarterfinalist), and figured out what it took to reach the next level. According to Coach Hettler, the teams were successful because, “The kids all realized that individual success would come with team success; that everyone on the team had a role and that role was important, even if it didn’t score points for the team or show up in a box score in the newspaper.”

James was a leader for the drive for three titles. Once he realized at the end of his junior year that all three teams had a chance to win state titles, he ral‑ lied his teammates to achieve that goal.

The coaches commented that all three boys were unselfish team members who put the teams’ success before their own. These characteristics carried over into the classroom, where Coach Cousineau has the opportunity to work with many of his players both in the

The athletes on all of Derryfield’s teams (including the state champion girls’ soccer and tennis teams) are driv‑ en to be their best, working with coaches who care about their success both on and off the field. The future looks bright for our three triple threats:

“...the kids all realized that individual success would come with team success; that everyone on the team had a role and that role was important, even if it didn’t score points for the team or show up in a box score in the newspaper.” physics classroom and on the field. He shares, “By being involved with them in both environments, I am able to help them better combine the two worlds.

Game time is 4:00 p.m., but the physics test is at 10:00 a.m. … They soon realize that a test and a game are really the same thing.”

Alec will be attending Plymouth State University and James will be at the University of Southern California this fall. The best news of all is that Matt still has three years to compete for Derryfield!

Coaching Honors Congratulations to state champion‑ ship soccer coach Jeffrey Cousineau for being selected as Director of Coaching for the New Hampshire Olympic Development Program (ODP). Jeffrey will be responsible for identifying and training the best soccer players from New Hampshire (girls and boys under 12 to under 19), hiring and training the coaching staff for the ODP program, as well as establishing a soccer skills and tactics curriculum for the ODP pro‑ gram. Jeffrey has coached the boys’ varsity soccer team to three state cham‑ pionships, has a USSF “A” License, and is director of Magic Touch Soccer Academy.

Triple threat athletes with their coaches (L to R): Alpine and lacrosse coach Chris Hettler, Alec Avery ’10, Matt Milne ’13, James Donovan ’10, and soccer coach Jeffrey Cousineau.

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spotlight Breakthrough

COLLEGE ACCEPTANCES FOR SENIORS The Breakthrough Class of 2010 will head off to their first year of college in the fall!

Below is a partial list of colleges and universities that have accepted Breakthrough seniors this year: Arcadia College Boston University Colby-Sawyer College Colgate University Connecticut College Drew University Hamilton College Harding University Hesser College Kansas State University Keene State College Mass. College of Pharmacy Mount Holyoke College Northeastern University

A Student Reflection For the fourth year in a row, Breakthrough was invited to be part of the Derryfield Parent/Faculty Association Auction to help raise tuition funds for students to attend Breakthrough. Thanks to the incredible generosity of Derryfield families, $24,800 was raised to support Breakthrough stu‑ dents on their path to college. José Maldonado ’03, Breakthrough student and teacher alumnus, spoke about his own experience and introduced a video pro‑ duced by Breakthrough teacher, Brendan Gillett. The following is the transcript of the video conversation with the past three auction speakers: Renata Ahishakiye (RA), M.J. Ortega (MO), and Cesar Zamudio (CZ). They were asked to reflect upon their Breakthrough experience, and how it led them to where they are today.

José Maldonado ’03 speaks at the PFA Auction.

RA: You do get the whole experience with school because you meet the teachers that are in high school and college and they tell you about their experience, which is really interesting. It also makes you have better goals for yourself.

MO: Breakthrough influenced my goals for

Norwich University Plymouth State University

CZ: In school, a teacher asks me questions

Saint Anselm College

that none of the kids know. And I raise my hand and answer and the kids ask, “How do you know that?” And I say that I went to a program that helped me.

the future because if I wouldn’t have joined, I don’t know… college was the last thing on my mind because of how young I was, and Breakthrough influenced my opinion more on college.

Suffolk University

MO: Most of the stuff I did there I never

RA: I was just going to go through school,

University of Colorado-Boulder

knew that I could do. Math and English and Shakespeare, who knew that I would be reading Shakespeare, especially the whole book. I’m still amazed. It gave me a chance to learn new things.

do the school work, homework, and every‑ thing and just get into college. But then Breakthrough motivated me. And now I really want to do well in school and go to a college that I would be proud to go to and

Savannah College of Art Simmons College Smith College St. Lawrence University

University of New Hampshire University of Rochester Wellesley College West Virginia University

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Derryfield Today – Spring 2010

BREAKTHROUGH SPOTLIGHT

become what I really want to be when I grow up. Now I have a career in mind that I’m hoping to get to.

MO: I just don’t know where I would be. I wouldn’t be as into school as I am today. I wouldn’t know as much as I know today. I would just be with my friends… failing. Breakthrough helped me a lot to make sure that I didn’t fail.

RA: When I first heard that Breakthrough was coming to my school, I just though “Oh, I guess I will just sit down and listen to what these people are saying. And it’s not going to be really interesting.” But at the end I was thinking this would be really good for me; maybe I should try it.

MO: And yes, it was free. That’s what caught me. That’s when I said, “Alright here I come!”

CZ: To me, when people give to Breakthrough, it means that the other kids who will come to Breakthrough will get better opportunities and better chances. Even though I did get pretty good opportunities, they could still maybe be better and maybe the best that they could get.

RA: Education can get you really far in life and really give you what you want.

MO: Friends come and go but an edu‑ cation is what is truly important.

www.breakthroughmanchester.org

Erin Ferguson ’10 works with students on a Super Saturday.

CZ: Breakthrough Manchester is in its twentieth year. And it has helped hun‑ dreds of students to get on the right path to college. That’s what really got me excited. I thought, “Yeah, I really want to do this.” Now that I have gone through the program I am really glad that I did it. I learned so much. Even though I was already motivated, I wanted to be more. I wanted to be better.

Local Honors Breakthrough Manchester was hon‑ ored as the Manchester Community College President’s Community Partner Award recipient at the Campus Compact for New Hampshire Presidents’ Awards Luncheon on April 13. The award was given to Breakthrough for “Enhancing the qual‑ ity of life in the community in mean‑ ingful and measurable ways and engaging in the development of sus‑ tained, reciprocal partnerships with a college or university.”

The Eighth Grade Super Saturday Program, led by Derryfield’s Katherine Grisanzio ’10, Philip Melanson ’10, Catalina Benech ’11, and Aseeb Niazi ’11, collaborated with student leaders at Manchester Community College to design a workshop entitled “Lessons in Leadership.” The partnership allowed the MCC students to practice their skills as leadership coaches to help meet the needs of the eighth grade Breakthrough students who were developing their own leadership skills and, in turn, passed leadership skills onto sixth and seventh graders through a series of workshops and activities at the final Super Saturday in May.

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community Serving our

Examining the Value of Service

by Annie Branch

hat does conjugating verbs in Spanish have to do with community service? Absolutely everything. Service has always been tied to Derryfield’s mission, and any student who has been involved in service can clearly see the value of community involvement as part of an education, whether it is a club activity or part of a service learning project.

These experiences help our students develop real‑life skills and introduce them to new cultures, creating global citizens with a sense of responsibility for others. Below, Derryfield students reflect on the importance of service in their education.

W

Vanessa Rodanas ’10 One of the many benefits I enjoyed at Derryfield was the ability to follow my own path while receiving support from both students and faculty. I decided to give back this gift of sup‑ port and inspiration to my community through service. I founded the Get Real Foundation to motivate others to join me in giving back, and found that my efforts transformed others’ compulsory charity work into a path of self‑discov‑ ery and passion for many. Together, we completed two successful mission gar‑ dens, a Harvest Feast, annual barn sales each raising $1,000 a year for charity, the Daily Bread Program, and more. We worked together through difficulties and successes, while learn‑ ing much about our impact on the world, environment, and economy. By inspiring others to do good works, just as my Derryfield peers and teachers inspired the best in me, I gained even more fulfillment because I knew my individual impact had compounded into a web of service networking

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through the State. Once I provided that initial spark, the individuals shone in their unique ways, helping out through technology, physical labor, time, or whichever special gift they could mas‑ ter and feel pride in giving. Get Real has inspired many individuals, young and old, over the past four years to make a positive difference. I am so grateful to Derryfield for teaching me how influential one individual can be and challenging me to step up and make a difference as a leader through community service.

Vanessa will be attending Cornell University in the fall.

Brandan Rivard ’10 Derryfield offers many community oriented opportunities that allow stu‑ dents like me to grow as individuals and as members of society. The constant presence of Derryfield’s involvement in giving back to their community inspired me to give back to my own community. As a junior last year, my brother Bryan and I co‑coordinated a

recycling campaign at our former ele‑ mentary school. We joined Terra‑ Cycle’s “Juice Pouch Brigade” and worked with fourth grade students.

We collected Capri Sun juice pouch containers that kids drink at lunch and sent them to Terra‑Cycle to “upcycle” and, in turn, raised money for their school while saving the pouches from being dumped into landfills. After two years of the program being up and running, with the help of the hard working fourth graders, we have col‑ lected over 40,000 juice pouches and raised over $800 that has been used to benefit the Green Acres Elementary School. The program has helped stu‑ dents realize the potential they have to make major impacts on the environ‑ ment and a difference in the world around them, even at an early age.

With Derryfield setting the stage, I have been fortunate enough to spread awareness of global impact to the future generation.

Brandan will be attending Colby College in the fall.

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SERVING OUR COMMUNIT Y

Kelsey Durant ’10 For my independent senior project I worked at the Webster School in the ELL department in the immigrant refugee classroom. I worked with nine‑ teen refugee kids where English was not their first language. They are from all over the world: Nigeria, Iraq, Syria, Iran, Nepal, Dominican Republic, Vietnam, and China. Each day as I taught them math, phonics, and how to read, they taught me their culture.

One of my students, Jawilca, was from the Dominican Republic and she had only been in America for a month when I met her. She could not speak any English, but I was able to commu‑ nicate with her in Spanish just as long as she spoke very slowly. When I told the class to go to their seats or take out their books, I had to go to Jawilca and tell her in Spanish. The best part of this whole experience was getting to know each of these kids. I was happy when I thought I knew all their names at the end of the first week, but having them come to me to share their story made each hectic, crazy day worth it. In the end, they were not just little students; they became MY little students.

Kelsey will be attending Cedarville University in the fall.

Christina Williams ’13 Without a doubt, going to the Dominican Republic was the best way I could have imagined spending my spring break. I met some of the most amazing people and made life‑long memories while doing it. Going to the Dominican Republic contributed more

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to my education than I could have ever learned in a classroom, even though I didn’t realize it at the time. One of the most important aspects of the trip was that we learned how to interact with a variety of diverse people. There were many different perceptions and dis‑ agreements that we had to work through to find what would work the best for our group. This was not easy, but it led to the most rewarding aspect of the trip which we discovered shortly after we began to teach: our students understood and learned what we were teaching them. It was our duty to pre‑ pare lesson plans and teach two 45‑ minute classes a day, and I have grown to appreciate more the painstaking work our teachers do for us every day because of it. With supporting and nurturing chaperones helping us, we learned how to teach and how to be taught. Outside of the school, we inter‑ acted with kids at the orphanage where we were staying. I thought that would be the last place I would learn something, but I was wrong. The chil‑ dren helped to enforce one of the most important lessons of my life: it doesn’t matter how much money you have; we are all equal. I wish I could be more like those children—accepting, loving, never discriminating. I now realize how little I know about the world, but this experience has made me hungry to know more. Traveling to the Dominican Republic was much more than a volun‑ teering opportunity; it was an unfor‑ gettable and life‑changing experience.

Christina will be a sophomore at Derryfield in the fall.

Derryfield Today – Spring 2010

EIGHTH GRADE

student Eighth Grade ELL Project Now in its fifth year, the eighth grade English Language Learners (ELL) service learning project is a culminat‑ ing experience for the class that has a lasting impression on all of the partici‑ pants. The project involves three visits with young ELL students from Webster and Beech Street Schools with the goal of promoting literacy, understanding the challenges of immigrants, and appreciating different cultures.

Derryfield students have the opportu‑ nity to serve as role models for younger students and share with them a passion for reading. Each ELL student receives a new book as well as a per‑ sonalized book made for them by their Derryfield buddy at their final visit.

Below is a letter from one of the ELL teachers on the effect that this partner‑ ship has had on her students, as well as reflections by Derryfield students.

A Thank You This is a letter to thank all the Derryfield students who participated in a service project with the students in my classroom. As you know, the Derryfield students have been an inte‑ gral part of my curriculum for many years through Builders’ Club and the eighth grade social studies program. I say they are a part of the “curriculum” because they give the students the opportunity to practice their conversa‑ tion skills and academic language in English. Beyond this, your students also give my students the opportunity of authentic interaction. Many times the students go home and never have

www.derryfield.org

contact with English speakers. By com‑ ing into the classroom, the students learn how to build relationships, how to trust the boundaries of these rela‑ tionships, and how to communicate appropriately. This is so important for their assimilation into American cul‑ ture. It is an opportunity that could never be taught from a book, videos, or role‑play.

The best part of this process is this: they take a field trip to The Derryfield School as a final part of the social stud‑ ies project. I cannot tell you how incredibly happy the students are to arrive and see the school of their part‑ ners! I cannot begin to describe the feeling of awe I see reflected in their eyes. Most have come from the most dismal of situations. So to visit a place of true learning and beauty is an inspiring, life‑changing event. I think they never fully realize who your stu‑ dents are until they visit that day. That is because your students are sensitive, respectful, and, really, their best cheer‑ leaders.

Again, thank you so much for the opportunity to partner with The Derryfield School on these projects!

Please know this has truly made a huge difference for my students. It gives them hope they can one day be successful, it gives them a positive self image, and more than any other factor, for a small window of time they are joyful and genuinely happy.

reflections “I love little kids so it was great being able to play with them and learn about their backgrounds. It helped me see how lucky I am. It made me want to help out. One of my favorite moments was when I was sitting next to my buddy and she whispered in my ear, ‘Can you hold my hand?’ I think this meant a lot to them and they really enjoyed it.”

“The meeting showed that I could really do something for children in need. I think that the ELL students were truly grateful and realized that there was a whole world out there; all they have to do is explore it.”

“This experience was amazing. I was able to spend time with my buddy and watch her English skills and comfort levels grow as she would open herself up for me more and more each visit.”

“This was by far the best visit I had with my buddy and one of the most exciting days of the entire year. This final visit showed our true connection, and words can’t even describe how much fun I had being with all the kids and taking a big responsibility.”

“It was great to see kids be kids. The best moment by far was when my buddy read to me. He loved his book (the one I made), and the book I got for him was challenging, but only just enough so that he could learn and read. We read it together and he loved it.”

“This project meant so much to me. Meeting my buddy, befriending him, and becoming as close as we did was an experience I will never forget. When he stepped off the bus yesterday, his eyes lit up. This reminded me of how close we had become.”

“I had a very fun, humble, and happy experience with my two Webster buddies. It meant so much to me to see their

Kindest regards, Donna W. Papanikolau ELL Teacher, Webster School

faces light up when we danced, or when they laughed and joked during lunch. I got the chance to listen about my girls’ stories and their journey to America. It was touching.”

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alumni

Update on Carter Glahn, son of Brooks Glahn ’91.

In Memoriam Derryfield Founder Jane VanderWolk Draves passed away on February 13, 2010. She was the wife of David D. Draves, the mother of Martha

The news contained in this section covers the period of July 13, 2009 – June 21, 2010.

For more recent news, or to post a note, please log on to the Derryfield Portal at www.derryfield.org.

VanderWolk ’70, Amy VanderWolk ’73, Jeff VanderWolk ’74, Naomi VanderWolk ’74 and Edie Stevenson and the grandmother of Becky Stevenson Hidek ’86 and Natalie Stevenson Macdonald ’89.

Derryfield Founder Eunice Louise Shaer passed away on February 6, 2010. She was the mother of Robert ’72 and William Shaer and grandmother of Elana Shaer ’02.

Derryfield substitute teacher Judy Geyer passed away on March 14, 2010. She taught in Contoocook for many years until her retirement.

Martha Stebbins ’02 died on Friday, April 2, 2010. A resident of Portsmouth, NH, Martha was the daughter of Hank ’70 and Alison Stebbins and the sister of Duncan ’98 and Ben. Martha graduated from the University of Massachusetts

1968 MJ Peabody had two of her hooked rugs accepted for this August’s “Living with Crafts” exhibit at the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen’s Annual Fair at Mount Sunapee. Mary Jane’s work was on display August 7–15 at Mount Sunapee Resort in Newbury, NH.

1973 Leslie Ramsay volunteers with Girls, Inc. of New Hampshire teaching young girls how to improve their reading skills. She has been happily soul‑mated with Douglas Draper for almost 20 years. They are reno‑ vating their arts and crafts home in Manchester’s north end, bringing it back to its natural beauty.

1977 Judy Camann and her 16‑year‑old daugh‑ ter reside in Seattle, WA. Judy has devoted her life’s work to counseling and educating those with multiple challenges. This has included counseling at a state prison. She is currently working in Seattle public schools as a Special Education Teacher and behavioral specialist. She is one of only 4,240 Special Education National Board Certificated teachers in the country. When she is not volunteering at her daughter’s school as the PTSA V.P., she can be found at the University of Washington and Seattle Pacific University where she offers courses to experienced teachers who are working toward more professional certifications.

Peter McCormack and his wife, Shirley, live in Falmouth, MA. They are experienc‑

Boston. She lived in Portsmouth and was employed as a licensed nurse’s assistant and home health aid.

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Spencer Newman ’86 and Mese Daly ’86 with their families on New Year’s Eve.

Derryfield Today – Spring 2010

U P DAT E O N A L U M N I

1983 Allen Breed ’00 and his bride, Tarah Carroll.

ing the empty nest syndrome after sending the last of their two children off to college this year. After many years in the newspaper business Peter is now a real estate monger buying and selling for RE/MAX Classic.

1978 Andre Perron is a practicing attorney in Bradenton, FL.

1979 Word from Andre Perron ’78 is that his brother Vincent Perron is a professor of medicine at the University of South Florida. Caroline Brackett wants to share her happy news that on February 20, 2010, her second son, Aidan Magill Brackett, was born. Big brother Tahjmier Brackett, who was five on July 22, couldn’t be happier.

Martin Goulet and Anna Marie Zimmerman were married in Concord, NH, on October, 10, 2009. They are liv‑ ing in Concord, with their combined family of four. Martin is working for IBM, leading strategy and marketing of integrated risk management solutions in the financial services industry.

Kristen Norton Mugnai writes, ”I’m still living in Alna, ME, with my hus‑ band and two kids. I own a small ani‑ mal veterinary clinic and 19 animals.

My daughter and I show our horses together, and I’m playing in a softball league.”

CEO of JVillage Network, a mission‑ driven, for‑profit company that pro‑ vides website management and online membership engagement solutions for Jewish organizations throughout North America. Since graduating from Tufts, he’s had a varied career path, including founding and selling his own adven‑ ture travel company and serving as a director of a division of Vermont Teddy Bear. Spencer is in frequent contact with Moses Daly, who lives “just up the street” with his family in Underhill, VT. The photo on the opposite page shows the two families enjoying this past New Year’s Eve in downtown Burlington, VT.

1986

1990

Natalie Searle Wrightson and her hus‑ band Kyle welcomed daughter Jocelyn Nicole Wrightson on March 19, 2009.

Spencer Newman reports that he is happily living in Burlington, VT, with his wife, Karen, and children, Halle (9) and Colby (7). Spencer recently received his MBA from the Kellogg School of Management and is currently

Ian Czaja and his wife Katya (former Breakthrough faculty) and their two children are spending six months in Melbourne, Australia. When Ian isn’t working, the family explores the country’s diverse and magnificent geography. ...continued on page 29

1981 Andre Perron ’78 also shares that his brother Carl Perron works for Morgan Stanley in Tampa, FL. Members of the Class of 1999 gather for their 10th Reunion at Margarita’s in Manchester, NH.

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LIFE AFTER DERRYFIELD

Cleaning Up the Street

by Cathy Sanborn Street ’86

Cathy Sanborn Street ’86 and her hus‑ band, John (JJ), reside in Nashville, TN, where they own and operate Street Theatre Company. Open since 2005, the theatre is a “professional, non‑profit arts organiza‑ tion dedicated to fostering theatre, music, and arts education in Nashville, with an emphasis on the East Nashville communi‑ ty.” Past productions include The Full Monty, Evita, Once on this Island, The Wiz, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, and The Great American Trailer Park Musical. The 2011 season features hits including Hairspray and Altar Boyz. t is truly surreal to be a part of a natural disaster as it is happening.

The weekend of May 1 was a the‑ atrically busy one for me, performing in one show and producing another.

The first sign of things to come was during our matinee performance about 30 minutes south of Nashville in Franklin, TN. A tornado warning siren went off just before our show that sent the actors and the audience to the local city hall to wait for the All Clear sign.

Once that happened, our show contin‑

I

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ued on as normal, but that was about the last normal thing of the weekend.

After that performance, the cast was told that there was only one road out of Franklin that was not submerged, including the highway, so the final evening show was cancelled and we were to try to make it home. As we crawled along the road with all the other people trying to get out of town, we saw houses to our right that were already trapped by water rushing over their driveways from a flooded creek.

And looking back, that was only the very beginning. We made it home an hour and a half later and watched it all go from bad to worse.

When it was all over two days later, everyone was in shock, especially those of us who were not directly affected. I know I felt survivor’s guilt because nothing of ours was ruined; our house was fine, the theatre we were perform‑ ing in sustained some flooding damage in the lobby, but thousands of dollars in sound, light, and music equipment were all untouched. Our storage space for all our props and costumes, right in the middle of some of the flooding

areas, were completely fine. And yet around us, people had lost everything.

I had recently just finished writing Artistic Director notes for Street Theatre Company’s 2010 season pro‑ gram book. The focus of the message was on how social media connects us more than ever but, in some ways, keeps us apart, and how theatre is a unified, shared experience we cannot lose. Ironically, soon after writing that piece, I watched firsthand how social media, i.e. Facebook, helped unify a city in despair. A friend of ours and her husband lost their entire house to the flood. They were at a loss as to where and how to begin in the clean‑up pro‑ cess, and how to channel the myriad of offers for help from friends in the com‑ munity. My husband suggested creat‑ ing a Facebook group: Help the Fanns.

Within three days there were over 500 members to the group! And amazingly, the site became the coordinator! People posted who was bringing food and when, when the clean‑up days were, what items were needed and what items were already being brought. It was truly amazing to watch it develop.

Young Jake isn’t afraid to get his hands dirty and dig in to help clean.

Derryfield Today – Spring 2010

U P DAT E O N A L U M N I

Update on Alumni ...continued from page 27

1991 OPPOSITE: One week after the flood, friends clean out the Fann house and salvage what they can. ABOVE: Three of us as part of a fireman’s brigade to remove belongings from the garage.

On the first day of clean‑up, their street looked like a war zone. It was overwhelming. But the turnout of peo‑ ple was incredible, especially knowing that the same thing was going on in so many other neighborhoods in the City at the same time. Red Cross trucks were coming by with food, church groups were sending out crews to ran‑ dom neighborhoods to help, lodge members were bringing gift cards to residents, city workers were coming by to remove debris, and what was most fascinating to me, a group from an hour and a half away, with no con‑ nection to our friends, saw the Help the Fanns page on Facebook and came to help. They came to help strangers!

For as many times as it seems the world and people are getting more rude, selfish, or apathetic, seeing the response this community had to the flooding devastation is a great reminder that difficult times can also bring out the best in people. Maybe the challenge is to live each day and treat each person we meet with the same compassion as we demonstrate in the face of a catastrophe.

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Congratulations to Jessica Englund Jones and her husband, Andrew, on the birth of their first child. Tyler Philip Jones was born on February 26, 2010.

1994 Cam Brensinger is celebrating his com‑ pany’s latest award. NEMO Equipment Inc. of Nashua, manufacturer of air‑ supported and extreme‑conditions tents, sleeping pads, and backcountry accessories, was awarded Backpacker Magazine’s 2010 Editors’ Choice award for its new Meta 2P tent. The award honors the products that Backpacker editors have chosen as the best of the year based on months of trail testing by teams of highly experienced hikers and climbers.

1995 Scott McAuliffe and his wife, Theresa, welcomed their son, Linden Leo McAuliffe, into their family on January 28, 2010. Baby Linden weighed in at 8 lb., 3 oz. Big brother Rowan just turned two and is doing very well (http://scot‑ tandtree.blogspot.com), and the family is enjoying living in Portland, OR. Bethany Lussier Smith and her hus‑ band, Paul Smith, welcomed a sweet little girl to their family. Emma Marion Smith was born on February 3, 2010.

Congratulations! Miles Andrew Olson, son of Staci Boucher Olson and her husband, Andrew, was born on May 13, 2010. Another big boy in the family, Andrew was 20 inches long and weighed 8 lbs., 7 oz. Wedding bells chimed for Vanessa Gorczyca on July 17, 2010 in Choulex, Switzerland. The lucky man is Iain Cooke. They will continue to live in Choulex, Switzerland. Vanessa’s only regret is

Derryfield alumni at Jessica Shute ’97’s wedding to Ryan Weber (L to R): Christina Costello Grimm, Julie Davis, Tyler Merrill, Tim Foster, Matthew Purtell, Josh Johnson, Jessica, Ryan (who attended Derryfield in middle school), Geoff Fiedler, Amanda Fiedler, Emily Newick, and Kelly Steele.

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U P DAT E O N A L U M N I

that she will miss her 15th class reunion as she and Iain will be at their stateside wedding reception that day.

1998 Dana Green writes, “Everything’s going well! I got my J.D. from Columbia Law School in May and am now working in Bosnia at the Special War Crimes Department in the Prosecutor’s Office. I also published a piece on asylum law in the Columbia Human Rights Law Review in the Spring 2009 volume. Congratulations to Gerard Murphy and his wife, Elizabeth. Daddy’s little girl, Caroline Helen Murphy, was born on March 11, 2010, two weeks early, but still 7 lbs. and healthy!

2000

2001

Allen Breed was married to Tarah Caroll on June 5 at St. Paul’s Church in Wellesley, MA. A reception followed at the Wellesley Country Club. Allen and Tarah will make their home on Beacon Hill in Boston, MA. Ryan Fox ’02 was also in attendance.

Returning from Bryn Mawr, Alex Moerlein and his wife, Dorothy, are back in the Boston area. Alex is hoping to make it to some alumni events as he approaches his 10‑year (gulp!) reunion!

2009 Alumni Games Derryfield alumni gathered on Thanksgiving weekend to play in basketball and hockey alumni games.

1999 Elizabeth Jorgensen Nickerson has joined the law firm of Shaheen and Gordon as an associate attorney in the Concord, NH, office. She will focus on real estate, title examination, wills and trusts, and probate administration.

Chris Norwood, Executive Vice President of NAI Norwood Group, has been selected to join the NAI Global Leadership Council, whose 30‑member panel helps set the strategic initiatives for NAI Global’s 375 offices worldwide.

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Derryfield Today – Spring 2010

SAVE THE DATE

alumni weekend FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2010 Art Show and Reception

5–7 p.m.

Alumni Association Meeting & Reception

6:30 p.m.

Student Talent Show ($5 at the door)

7–9 p.m.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2010 Dunlap Invitational Tennis Classic Country Fair Girls’ Varsity Soccer vs. Pittsfield

8:30–11 a.m.

10 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

1:30–3 p.m.

Alumni Tours of Campus Class of 1970 – Reception Derryfield alumni gather with faculty for a reception at Sanctuary in Boston.

4:30 p.m.

5:15–6:15 p.m.

REUNION CLASS PARTIES Individual gatherings for the Classes of 1970, 1975,

2002 Maureen Harrington was married to Tarek Aydin. The wedding reception was at the Fairmont Copley Plaza in Boston on November 27, 2009. Matt Boelig is recently engaged to Rupsa Chaudhury. They will marry sometime in 2011 but are still working out the date. In the meantime, Matt has moved to Philadelphia to begin his general surgery residency at the University of Pennsylvania. Rupsa will finish her studies at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine in 2011.

exploring that part of the world.

Looking forward to my next job as the lead logistical officer for my squadron at Fort Hood. Take care!” Ben Bradley is now living in San Francisco.

He continues to work for the architec‑ tural firm ”Front,“ which designs building facades. Jessica Saturley reports, ”I live in Lebanon, NH, and work as a cidermaker at Farnum Hill Ciders. It is shocking how much of my job involves trying to remember what Mr. Cousineau taught me about fluid dynamics in physics class.”

Congratulations to Xan Harwood, who just purchased his first home in

www.derryfield.org

different times throughout the weekend. The Classes of 2000 and 2005 are holding their events on Friday, November 26. Please visit www.derryfield.org for updated plans and look for an invitation in your mailbox.

QUESTIONS? Contact Diane Allen, Alumni Coordinator, at 603.669.4524, ext. 6102 or at diane.allen@ derryfield.org.

NETWORKING?

LinkedIn

join us on

2003 Congratulations to Steven Flagg, who has recently been promoted to the rank of Captain in the United States Army.

Steven writes, “Hi Folks! Returned from Iraq in December 2009 after spending the past twelve months

1980, 1985, 1990, and 1995 are being scheduled for

Gerard Murphy ’98 and his daughter, Caroline Helen.

Interested in doing some professional networking? Want to reconnect with classmates or even take advantage of new professional connections? Join The Derry‑ field School’s LinkedIn group. The more members, the better the networking!

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CONGRATULATIONS

new

parents To Caroline Brackett ’79 a son, Aidan Magill Brackett, on February 20, 2010.

To Natalie Searle Wrightson ’86 and her husband Kyle, a daughter, Jocelyn Nicole, on March 19, 2009.

To Jess Englund Jones ’91 and her husband, Andrew, a son, Tyler Philip Jones on February 26, 2010.

To Scott McAuliffe ’95 and his wife, Theresa, a son, Linden Leo, on January 28, 2010.

To Staci Boucher Olson ’95 and her husband, Andrew, a son, Miles Andrew, on May 13, 2010.

To Bethany Lussier Smith ’95 and her husband, Paul,

Members of the Class of 2004 gather at J.W. Hills in Manchester for their reunion.

Portland, OR. And thanks to Xan’s mom for the good news.

a daughter, Emma Marion, on February 3, 2010.

To Gerard Murphy ’98 and his wife, Elizabeth, a daughter, Caroline Helen, on March 11, 2010.

To faculty member David Pook, and his wife, Elizabeth, a daughter, Beatrice Sarah, on June 10, 2010.

CELEBRATING

alumni

weddings Martin Goulet ’83 to Anna Marie Zimmerman on October 10, 2009, in Concord, NH. Ursula Davis ’85 to Charles Robson, Jr. on June 26, 2010.

Vanessa H. Gorczyca ’95 to Iain Cooke on July 17, 2010, in Choulex, Switzerland.

Jessica Shute ’97 to Ryan Weber on November 14, 2009,

2004 Annmarie Gaffney is engaged! The lucky man is Brian Stucker. They will tie the knot on 10/10/10. After grad‑ uating from Ursinus College in Pennsylvania with a B.A. in Anthropology and Sociology, Julie Katz moved to Philadelphia, where she attended culinary school at JNA Institute of Culinary Arts and soon became hooked on food service. She is now the manager at Kiki’s Restaurant and The Gravity Tavern in New Boston, NH, combining her passions for people, food, hospitality, fun, and her hometown.

in Naples, Florida.

Allen Breed ’00 to Tarah Caroll on June 5, 2010, in Wellesley, MA. Maureen Harrington ’02 to Tarek Aydin on November 27, 2009, in Boston, MA. Cara Bishop ’04 to Adam Lavallee on June 19, 2010, in Bedford, NH. Morgan Melkonian ’00 to Matt Jerome on July 10, 2010, on Chebeague Island, ME.

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2005 Wyeth McKinney graduated May 2009, Summa Cum Laude from Sacred Heart University and works in Greenwich, CT, for Interactive Brokers as a finan‑ cial analyst.” n Christina Nyquist was

recently sent to Hammond, LA to the Joint Information Center (JIC) to work on communications regarding the BP oil spill. She is a reporter/editor for the United States Geographic Survey, one of the agencies of the Department of Interior.

2006 We hear from Noah Harwood’s mom that he graduated from Dartmouth College on Sunday, June 13, 2010.

Congratulations, Noah!

2009 Spencer McCormick reports, “I am a member of Hobart crew. We placed second at the Head of the Fish. I plan on majoring in chemistry, though I am still in my first year. HWS is a lot of fun and I am looking forward to next semester.”

Derryfield Today – Spring 2010

T H E D E R R Y F I E L D S C H O O L C E L E B R AT E S S E R V I C E

profile

Faculty

Susan Grodman hile Derryfield has always placed a high priority on service, it is Susan Grodman who has built the program to what it is today, integrating service into the cur‑ riculum, creating service opportunities for all students, and expanding the reach of the program to all corners of the world. Her role at Derryfield has evolved since becoming a parent in 1999, starting as a volunteer and, most recently, taking on the position of Dir‑ ector of Service and Global Education.

While service and education have always played a role in her life, Susan’s professional ties before Derryfield were in the corporate world, working for 14 years at Fleet Bank and Southern NH Medical Center. Susan began building her community connections when she moved to Manchester with her family in the mid‑1980s. She started by volun‑ teering at her synagogue, which led to 15 years of leadership with her syna‑ gog and the Jewish Federation of Manchester, as well as eight years on the Manchester Community Music School board and a current seat on the board of Families in Transition.

When Candy Chaplin took a leave of absence to serve in Nepal for a year, Susan stepped in as a parent volunteer

W

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to lead the Builders’ Club. A conversa‑ tion with then Head of Middle School Natasha Blodgett about the importance of service learning led to her being con‑ tracted to develop a service learning program for the Middle School. As a result of her work, the sixth and eighth grades have meaningful service learn‑ ing projects integrated into their cur‑ riculum. Students who participate in these culminating experiences often name them as the most memorable moments of the year.

Moving forward, Susan became a part‑time employee of the school, working to coordinate service projects.

In 2008 she took on the additional responsibilities of a full‑time Director of Service and Global Education. The addition of global education was a nat‑ ural progression for Susan, having looked at service programs overseas and seen how her sons’ semesters abroad had influenced their lives.

Susan’s goals for service at Derryfield are to expand local service opportunities outside of Manchester, develop a service learning culminating experience for the seventh grade, and integrate more service opportunities into the curriculum where appropriate.

Susan believes that service learning

Susan Grodman helps raise the roof during the 2010 Habitat for Humanity Trip.

can add to a student’s education by developing real life skills in the areas of planning, communicating, problem solving, and fund raising, as well as by providing the opportunity to experi‑ ence issues such as poverty, immigra‑ tion, and the environment, all of which can be connected to classroom learning.

“For me, the bottom line is when a student comes into my office and tells me about a service experience that made them look at the world different‑ ly, or pushed them to do something they didn’t know they could do.” These experiences add a layer of diversity and value to the overall education of Derryfield students, enriching their lives in ways they never anticipated.

– Annie Branch

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2108 River Road Manchester, NH 03104-1396 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE PAID MANCHESTER, NH PERMIT NO. 290

Go Cougars!

Congratulations to all our teams on successful seasons, including state championships in boys’ soccer, girls’ soccer, boys’ alpine skiing, girls’ tennis, and boys’ lacrosse.

Parents of alumni: If your son or daughter no longer maintains a permanent address at your home, please notify the Advancement Office at 603.669.4524 of the correct mailing address. Thank you.