Alumni Notes 2016

spring 2016

a branch of the ojai valley school family tree

BOARD OF TRUSTEES Mr. John B. De Nault III Chairman Mr. Michael J. Hall-Mounsey President/CEO Mrs. Patricia H. Farber Treasurer Mrs. Missy Stoen Secretary Dr. Robert G. Cooper Jr. (L61) Mr. Paul Donlon (L74) Mr. Spencer Garrett (L62, U65) Mr. William H. Hair Mr. Cooper Hefner (U09) Mr. Andrew Helman Mrs. Elizabeth (Curran) Hermes (L66, U69) Mr. Ronald L. Rose (L50) Mrs. Liza Jo Cass White (L61) CHAIRMAN EMERITUS Mr. Carl A. Kotchian, 1914-2008 PRESIDENTS EMERITI Mr. Edward Yeomans, 1865-1942 Mr. Michael D. Hermes (L53), 1938-2011 HEADMASTER EMERITUS Mr. Wallace Burr, 1904-1996 MEMBERS EMERITI Mr. Robert E. Chesley, 1932-2003 Mr. David J. Donlon, 1930-2009 Mr. Benjamin E. Nordman, 1913-1985 Mr. Anson S. Thacher, 1905-1994

CONTRIBUTORS Thank you to the Upper Campus journalism students for their contributions to this issue of Alumni Notes, including writers Ally Feiss, Natasha Freedman, and Emma Gustafson. Thank you to photographers Misty Volaksi, Fred Alvarez, Ally Feiss, Malory Taylor, and Tracy Wilson; and special thanks to alumna Elizabeth (Curran) Hermes (L66, U69) for her contributions and editing.

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CONTENTS From the Archives

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Alumni Profile: Ellen Liu

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President's Page

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Alumni Notes

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Focus on Equestrian

In Memoriam 6

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Campus News

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Alumni Weekend Schedule 28

Stay Connected

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Spring Gala

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ALUMNI WEEKEND J U N E 1 0 - 1 2 , 2 0 1 6 The Alumni Weekend Registration is now open! Sign up online at www.ovs.org/aw See pages 28-30 for more information about this year’s program.

On the Cover: Senior Misaki Kobayashi (U16), pictured with Layla. The OVS Equestrian Program began more than 65 years ago with the belief that horses taught important life lessons – the kind often not found in a classroom. The program has evolved over the years from Western pack trips to English riding with a greater emphasis on dressage and jumping, although students still participate in spring camp trips on horseback. In this issue of Alumni Notes, student Emma Gustafson explores the unique relationship between OVS horse and rider. Cover and inside photos by Misty Volaski.

ON THE HILL Find the latest campus news on the award-winning OVS student journalism website On the Hill: oth.ovs.org

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FROM THE ARCHIVES

1960s Upper Campus Shenanigans These two photos jumped out at us when looking through the OVS archives, prompting our editors to pose the question: “What shenanigans were those students from the 1960s up to?” We asked alum Keith Carradine (U67), who explained that the water tower escapade was a spoof of the popular TV show, “The Man from U.N.C.L.E.”, except these secret agents in trench coats were from “M.O.T.H.E.R.” “The trench coat photo is Rick Van Ness, Stephen McPherson and me spoofing on the James Bond craze -- way ahead of Austin Powers!” Keith said. “The work crew was, I think, a road beautification detail on the old road running up the south side of the hill…Great to see these old pics!”

The work crew, pictured clockwise from left, shows Craig Christensen (L64, U67) sitting on the edge of the truck; Sarah "Sally" (Taylor) Jones (L64, U67) is behind him with her hair falling in her face; Ann (Gottsdanker) Rees (U67) is behind her; Bob Ferguson (L64, U67) is standing tallest in back; then more toward the middle is Keith Carradine. Next to him and shaded is Harry Smith (U67). Cindy (Burr) Roberts (U67) is on the edge of the truck and looking at the camera, and Steve McPherson (U67) is sitting next to her in profile In the bottom right corner with the big shades and pointing is Jennifer (Meek) Thurman (U67). Rick Van Ness (L64, U67) is sitting on the other side of Keith and is the only one with a garden tool. Jody (Boswell) Hall (U67) (bottom left) points seemingly to the same thing Jennifer has spotted.

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PRESIDENT'S PAGE

With the arrival of spring comes the realization that this school year has flown by, and soon we will experience the nostalgia that comes with graduation and the traditions that mark the end of the year. It is, therefore, an ideal time to pause and reflect on the tremendous progress we have made in recent months – as it has been nothing short of transformational.

We have embraced the priorities in our Centennial Vision Plan in a myriad of ways. These include growing our enrollment and increasing financial aid and scholarship opportunities.

We have expanded our innovative science, technology, engineering, and math offerings while continuing to emphasize the core values of an OVS education – outdoor exploration, learning by doing, independent thinking, problem solving, and character development.

We have hired the best, most creative, and energetic teachers, providing them with collaboration time and professional development, and we have advanced our environmental sustainability and conservation initiatives.

At the same time, Ojai Valley School has embarked on a comprehensive effort to improve and expand facilities on both campuses. This effort began last year with the dedication of the Alan F. Pearson Center for the Arts at Lower Campus. Now, it continues with an ambitious Master Plan for development of the Upper Campus.

Specifically, the Master Plan envisions new academic, athletic, arts, and residential facilities as financial resources become available. The plan identifies two key building priorities: the Student Commons and the Gym. Imagine a contemporary Commons on the crest of the hill, the new central gathering place of campus life – complete with a flexible indoor-outdoor dining hall, student center, library, and administrative offices. The Master Plan also illustrates imaginative concepts for a multipurpose gymnasium and performance space in the canyon below, providing at last an indoor venue for our middle and high school sports teams.

Current parent and renown Los Angeles architect Frederick Fisher and his team developed the Master Plan, which is now available on the school’s website. We are deeply grateful for Mr. Fisher’s extraordinary vision. We now have a road map for future growth and development that will elevate the student experience at Ojai Valley School for generations to come.

As I look back on the progress we have made, I know it did not happen overnight. It takes vision and a steadfast commitment to work gradually towards any goal. It also takes support from the entire school community and we look forward to working with our alumni, parents, and friends to achieve these goals and ensure the school’s continued success.

Sincerely,

Michael J. Hall-Mounsey President/CEO

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focus on equestrian

For the Love of a Horse

by Emma Gustafson on to become a professional equestrian instructor. “He was very compassionate. He knew I was scared and did his best to comfort me. He knew I was a beginner rider and would make mistakes... he understood that and forgave me for my mistakes.”

When John De Nault (L89, U93) was in ninth grade, one of his greatest teachers was a horse named Tiny Tim, whom he rode for two of the six years he attended Ojai Valley School. But Tiny Tim was much more than a horse to be ridden – he was a horse to learn from and love.

In the equestrian world at Ojai Valley School, this is not an uncommon occurrence. In fact, there are numerous examples of the type of bond that can motivate a student to sneak out at night to see his or her horse in times of need.

De Nault started riding Tiny Tim, a giant bay thoroughbred gelding, in eighth grade, and when he made the transition from Lower to Upper Campus he asked then-Equestrian Director Terry Wilson if the big horse with the little name could come with him.

That is what is special about the OVS horses. They are not just learning tools, but animals to trust, love, and care for. Many OVS graduates make powerful connections with their horses and remember them throughout their adulthood.

Between the change in age, campuses, and student body, Tiny Tim was an important constant in De Nault’s life, accompanying him through the transition from boy to young man.

But when DeNault was in ninth grade, Tiny Tim became very sick and had to be euthanized. So, on a cold winter’s night, De Nault snuck out of the dorms to say goodbye to one of his best friends on his last night on Earth.

Those same alums often have hearttouching reactions to the deaths of their beloved four-legged friends, and look back on the memories of their horses with great fondness.

“The student riders care for and love their horses,” said Equestrian Director Stephanie Gustafson. “They have an emotional attachment to them that one simply can’t have with a basketball or tennis racket. That’s what makes this sport so special.”

And when he crept into the barn, covered by the darkness of night, he brought a book along with him. De Nault read to Tiny Tim for a few hours, and said goodbye to the horse that taught him lessons that, as described by De Nault, could not be taught in books.

Take Belle Cook (L04, U08), for example. Belle rode Lexi, a gray quarter horse mare, for six years.

“I go back to how patient school horses are and how patience is not a single virtue, but three, and Tiny Tim taught me those,” explained De Nault, who graduated from Upper in 1993 and went

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focus on equestrian

when Teazis got to the barn, as the person to take him away was delayed. She stayed with him until she had to go to dinner. This was her goodbye.

For most of Cook’s high school career, she begged riding instructor Terry Wilson to retire Lexi, when the time came, at Wilson’s calming, spacious citrus ranch in Ojai. When Cook graduated from high school, Wilson fulfilled that promise and brought Lexi to her ranch.

But her memory of Bailey goes much further than that awful day. She remembers how Bailey helped her through the hard times she had at school, and that he cured her fear of horses.

Cook visited Lexi every day, rain or shine, to ride and clean her stall. But over time, navicular disease, which caused Lexi’s immense leg pain and necessitated two surgeries, became so severe that the only choice left was for her to be put down.

“Being a student in the dorms was brutal,” said Teazis, who transferred from an Orange County public high school before her junior year, “When I would have difficult days I would go down and talk to Bailey or spend a couple extra hours down there.”

“That was one of the hardest things I've ever had to go through,” said Cook, who was working as a trail guide in Oregon at the time. “She died two days before I came home, and I cried more and was more upset at her death than any human.”

Indeed, horses and students create the type of bonds so strong that De Nault teared up at the sight of an email mentioning Tiny Tim. These horses can impact the students’ lives so intensely that their horses remain part of their extended family the rest of their lives.

De Nault credits Tiny Tim with teaching him the virtues of patience, compassion, forgiveness, and understanding.

Cook, who recently joined the equestrian staff at OVS, still thinks about Lexi every day, and the characteristics she loved in Lexi she continues to recognize in other horses.

“Tiny Tim taught me all these,” he said, “and I still use them on a daily basis.”

Stephanie Teazis (U13) feels the same way about the horse she rode at Upper, a thoroughbred named Bailey.

One day, when Teazis was in 12th grade, Bailey lay down and could not get back up. He then had to be euthanized while she was away on an OVS camping trip. When she returned to campus and heard the news, she immediately sprinted down the hill from the dorms to the barn. Bailey was lying dead his turnout

About the author: Emma Gustafson (L14, U18) is a current sophomore at Upper Campus and a first-year journalism student. She is also a competitive OVS rider and daughter of Equestrian Director Stephanie Gustafson.

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focus on equestrian

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focus on equestrian

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focus on equestrian

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focus on equestrian Fast Facts

Social Media

• 50 horses owned or leased by Ojai Valley School • 47 students riding as their sport in grades 4-12

Learn more about the program and follow us on Instagram at OJAIVALLEYSCHOOLEQUESTRIAN

• 4,200 bales of hay consumed annually • 24 bags a week of senior feed for older horses • $100,000 total feed budget for equestrian program

Stable Sustainability • More than 500,000 gallons of water are saved

annually as a result of high-tech irrigation systems and geo-textile footing in the Lower Campus riding arena.

This recycled material reduces dust and improves equine safety by providing softer footing for the horses.

• OVS composts manure from its two stables and gives

it to local farmers.

WAYS TO SUPPORT Ojai Valley School is constantly striving to improve its equestrian facilities and programs. In the coming year, we hope to expand our water-saving measures by installing new geo-textile footing at the Upper Campus riding arena. The school hopes to purchase new horses and ponies to support the competitive program, and provide scholarship opportunities to young riders who cannot afford the program fees.

Please contact Development Coordinator, Jack McClenahan, in the Alumni Office if you are interested in supporting these efforts.

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CAMPUS NEWS A Return to the Fold and the Field OVS Alum Scores as New Soccer Coach at Upper Campus

by Ally Feiss Lacing up his cleats and falling into line with his players, Hunter Helman (L06, U10) stood at the center of a diamondshaped soccer drill, patiently teaching players how to connect their passes, shoot accurately, and execute plays.

He was clearly at ease on his old stomping grounds. But, these days, Helman is no longer taking instruction – he is giving it.

Helman, 24, who started at OVS as a kindergartener, took over the reins this year as the high school soccer coach. He directs the fall and winter soccer programs and works as a weekend supervisor at the Upper Campus.

A former star athlete at the high school, Helman spread his knack for leadership from football to soccer to baseball, earning the position of captain in all three sports. But despite how comfortable he was as a player, he has had adjust to his new role as coach.

Added Nolan: “My brother and Hunter used to talk about coaching, but now Hunter is actually the coach. Knowing him the way I do, and considering him more of a friend or family member than a teacher, makes me want to make him proud.”

“I was nervous,” Helman said. “I never coached in an official capacity before, but, luckily, I’ve had a great group to work with that has made it very enjoyable.”

Carl Cooper saw the growth Helman made in his years as a student and remembers his talents as a player. His willingness to learn, and his drive and natural ability, made him stand out on the field.

Helman spent his years on the Upper Campus soccer team playing for Graham Smith, a former professional goalie, and Head of School Carl Cooper. Now, six years later, Helman is coaching Smith’s son, Davis, who is captain of the team and a senior.

“The thing you remember about Hunter is the passion he had for the game,” Cooper said. “He played a lot of midfield. That meant that he was that link, holding everything together.”

Helman is still the link holding the team together.

“I remember watching him practice and play when I was really little,” Davis said. “I think it’s pretty funny how my dad used to be his coach and now he is mine.”

Despite his young age, he has fostered an environment in which the team has flourished. The Spuds ended the winter season with multiple wins, and learned to work as a team and support each other.

Helman’s players say that it is because he is close to their age and was once a student-athlete at OVS that they feel a connection to him.

The intergenerational connections don’t stop there. Helman is also coaching freshman Nolan Colborn, the younger brother of one of Helman’s former teammates, Parker Colborn (L05, U09).

“It’s easier to relate to him, especially with some of the newer styles of play and I think he brings that into the games and practices,” Captain Davis Smith said. “He’s been in all of our shoes before. He knows what we need to know in order to succeed.”

“Hunter was a student of the game and had a deep understanding of strategy,” Parker said. “He was a quiet leader who led by example and became the go-to when somebody needed to know about the complexities of the game. I think it is great that he is back at OVS. He has always had a natural ability to connect with soccer players and those who are passionate about the sport.”

About the author: Senior Ally Feiss (U16) is a first-year journalism student at Upper Campus and captain of the girls’ soccer team. She’s played soccer all four years at Upper, including one season on the boys’ team during her sophomore year.

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CAMPUS NEWS Rise of the Robots OVS Launches New Tech Teams

by Natasha Freudmann Walk into the chemistry lab at the Upper Campus during any elective period, and you’ll find students huddled in groups, jamming to the classics, and deeply focused on their tangled assemblies of wires, wheels, and metal. The vibe is cheerful and exciting. But make no mistake – this is serious business.

STEM Education programs are becoming increasingly popular nationwide as schools move to prepare students for the kinds of STEM-based jobs that will be available in the 21st century. OVS ha long focused on kinetic learning, and a STEM focus aligns perfectly with the school’s philosophy. STEM projects are very also popular with students and are helping recruit prospective students to OVS

Since the start of the school year, these students have been preparing to compete in the Greater Los Angeles FIRST Tech Challenge, a high school robotics competition aimed at teaching students the value of hard work, innovation and creativity through the use of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM).

The robotics squad is divided into two teams: Python and Spudnik. Students on each team build and program their robots ,and those creations are put through the paces during competitions against other high school teams.

“I think that OVS, by creating STEM programs, is meeting a calling that all education is needing and lacking,” said math and science teacher Chris Wescott, who coaches the team and is teaching a new class, Computing with Robotics, based on a STEM program at UC Davis.

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“In the academic realm, there is a tremendous interest in hands-on science approaches now,” said Tracy Wilson, the school’s director of advancement and admissions. “So this is a potential differentiator for OVS in terms of our ability to be on the cutting edge of wha we can offer with a STEM-based curriculum that truly begins in kin dergarten and extends through the high school grades.”

While the competitive season is ending, Wescott is already planning ahead and recruiting for next year. “Hopefully, what we create here at OVS is something I can take pride in [and] something that students are excited about and can feel challenged by.”

About the author: Junior Natasha Freudmann (U17) is a second-year journalism student at the Upper Campus. You will not find her close to a robot. But she will lead the high school journalism program next fall a the Editor-in-Chief.

ALUMNI REGIONAL GATHERINGS OVS experienced a wonderful year full of alumni regional gatherings. Representatives from OVS traveled to Korea, Colorado, Montana, Iowa, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and various other locations in California.

The alumni gathering in Seoul brought together more than a dozen alums from all over Korea for an early evening of reminiscing and laughter. Director of Admission and Advancement Tracy Wilson had a wonderful time seeing many familiar faces and forging new friendships. A special thanks goes to Regional Representative Shelley Hermes (U77) for helping organize the gathering.

If you are an OVS alum based in or travelling through Korea, please reach out to our regional representative, Shelley Hermes at srhojai@hotmail.com to make sure you are invited to future alumni events in the area. OVS will be returning to Korea in May of this year.

Back Row: Seung Kyu "Victor" Choi (U10), Shelley Hermes (U77), Sung Hoon "Chris" Kang (U10), Soo Shim, Sung Ho Park, Ju Yeon "Christina" Kim (U08), Ji Hae Park (U06), Grace Lee (U07). Front row: Young Bin "Charles" Choi (U11), Sang Hee "Jessica" Park (L01, U05), Joo Young Oh (L04, U08), Jae Hyung Nam (U07), Lauren Park (L07, U11), Tracy Wilson. Marie Shin (L05) is not pictured.

Alumni and Michael J. Hall-Mounsey at the hip Jamber Wine Club in San Francisco earlier this year.

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LOS ANGELES ALUMNI GATHERING Alumnus and OVS Trustee Cooper Hefner (U09) was once again the host of the Los Angeles gathering at The Glendon Bar and Kitchen. The event brought more than 60 alumni, friends, and guests together. Thanks, Cooper!

Gunnar Helman (L08, U12), Evan Cooper (L08, U12), and Cooper Hefner (U09) looking dapper at a recent alumni gathering in L.A.

We’d like to give special recognition to Lauren Park (L07, U11) for being only alum who attended the events in both South Korea and Los Angeles! Here, she is pictured with her younger sister, Chloe Park (U18), who is currently a junior at Upper Campus.

A group of Upper 80s alums reminiscing with Carl Cooper (L64, U68) at the alumni gathering in L.A. .

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ALUMNI GAMES Thank you to everyone who attended the Alumni Soccer and Basketball Games in February. Our student athletes enjoyed a 3-2 win against the Fossils in the soccer game, but our alums were able to redeem themselves on the court by defeating the students 57 to 38. We look forward to seeing some more spirited rivalry at the May 14 Alumni Baseball and Bingo Memorial Lacrosse Games. Any way you cut it, we’re all Spuds!

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FOUNDER’S ALUMNI AWARD In recognition of the school’s centennial, the Founder’s Alumni Award was created to honor an Ojai Valley School alum whose achievements exemplify the values endorsed in the school’s motto, Integer Vitae, meaning wholeness of life, symmetry of life, soundness of life, therefore, poise and strength of life.

The Founder’s Alumni Award Recipient will have demonstrated good character, respect for other people, a balance of accomplishments at a level that has a positive and broad impact, and whose achievement(s) is/are significant within a profession, career, vocation, or service.

Recipients of the award will receive a special spread in Family Tree, an engraved revere bowl, and lifetime complimentary access to Alumni Weekend for themselves and a guest. Their name will also be added to a special plaque, which will be prominently and permanently displayed in Frost Hall.

Beth Pfeiffer (L66, U69), pictured with Michael J. HallMounsey, President/CEO, was the recipient of the 2015 Founder’s Alumni Award. The late Michael D. Hermes was the first recipient.

Please join us on June 11, 2016 during the main event dinner at Alumni Weekend to find out who has been chosen as the 2016 recipient of the award.

SAVE THESE DATES: April 24-26, Shanghai, China

For more information about the award or to submit your nomination for next year’s consideration, please visit www.ovs.org/alumni/ FAA.

April 29-30, Beijing, China May 7, Seoul, Korea May 14, Alumni Baseball & Bingo Memorial Lacrosse Games

ALUMNI IN COMMUNITY SERVICE

May 14, OVS Gala June 2, Lower Campus Graduation

Alumni involved with significant community service efforts, both locally and abroad, will be featured in an upcoming issue of Family Tree.

Let us know how you or your classmates are effecting change in the world by contacting us at alumni@ovs.org. Photos in jpg format are encouraged. Although we accept your updates anytime, the deadline to be considered for this particular spread is Thursday, June 30, 2016.

June 3, Upper Campus Graduation June 10-12, Alumni Weekend at Lower Campus

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Profile: Ellen Liu OVS Alumna Bridges her Passion for Art and Science

by Natasha Freudmann consider a lot more factors and adjust your design accordingly.

I’m interested in working in the accessory industry in the future, so that was a nice first tiny little step into that arena.”

Liu, who is pursuing a bachelor of fine arts degree in jewelry and metalsmithing at RISD and a bachelor of science degree in biophysics at Brown, has been creating art ever since she set foot on the RISD campus. But she broke new ground in getting her artwork onto the RISD MADE website.

Liu chose to focus on pocky because of her love for food and the value she places in the little snack.

“I am a little obsessed with food and feel inspired by it constantly,” she said. “I love pocky and I feel like pocky has become something from a simple snack to a food that has a certain cultural symbolism to it. I also love the idea of thinking of jewelry as tiny monuments, so I decided to celebrate this amazingly delicious snack by making one that will never perish.”

Liu’s accomplishment was a long time coming. Her artistic talent blossomed during her three years at OVS, where she took three AP Art classes with then-art teacher Mandy Jackson-Beverly.

Her success comes as no surprise to former advisor, Lisa Boyd.

OVS alum Ellen Liu hard at work at RISD — Photo by Crystal Wu

You probably recognize the yummy snack from your local Asian market, the crispy pretzel stick, coated with a thick layer of creamy chocolate, known as “pocky.”

But don’t try to nibble on the ones created by Ojai Valley School alum Ellen Liu (U14), who has put her own twist on the classic treat.

As part of her studies at the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), the graduate has handcrafted a collection of pocky sticks out of solid brass, forging a tasty-looking sculpture that marks her biggest artistic accomplishment yet.

“I think that Ellen can do anything,” Boyd said. “She is so intelligent, so talented, and I have always said that I expect her to find a cure for cancer. I don’t know if she will, but I think she’s amazing and I love what she puts out with her art.”

Liu credits OVS for starting her career and acknowledges that the school played a big part in getting her to where she is now.

“OVS encouraged me to pursue my interests and allowed me to demonstrate a strong passion for bridging interdisciplinary fields,” she said. “It would not have been possible to get into the program in the first place without OVS.”

The pocky project is Liu’s first-ever production piece and is now featured for sale on RISD MADE, an electronic boutique dedicated to helping students peddle their handmade products and art objects.

“It was quite a nice experience for me,” said Liu, who is enrolled in a dual-degree program at RISD and Brown University. “Production pieces are really different from projects because you have to

Ellen Liu handcrafted this solid brass pocky sculpture as part of her studies at the Rhode Island School of Design — Photo by RISD MADE

About the author: Junior Natasha Freudmann (U17) is a second-year journalism student at the Upper Campus. Next fall, she will lead the program as the Editor-In-Chief of the student newspaper On The Hill.

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alumni notes Lower 1936

Lower 1977

Helene (Meyers) Hamm (see In Memoriam)

Lower 1953 Ed Bailey (below) bundled up against the Homer, AK winter.

Lower 1977 Happy news from Nina Sugamori wrote in to let us know she recently moved to Independence, Missouri, and is engaged.

“We originally met at age 19 in L.A. and began talking again at age 52 via Facebook Messenger. I moved here and bought a new house! He drove me and my 3 pets across country with my Jeep Wrangler. We plan to marry in May!”

OVS regrets to report that Douglass Kopp passed away on August 17, 2015.

Lower 1966

Best wishes, Nina! Be sure to send us another update and photo when you tie the knot!

Susan (Lawler) Martin checked in with us and noted, “My favorite memories of OVS are of Mr. Singleton and going camping on horseback.”

Lower 1994 We received notice that Eri Maeda will be entering law school in the U.S. this summer. Best of luck to you, Eri!

Lower Campus Student Council President Avery Colborn (L16) joined forces with Upper Campus Student Council President Davis Smith (L12, U16) at the annual Spudfest in October. Middle and high school students from both campuses enjoyed a fabulous fall day playing games, tie-dying t-shirts, and throwing softballs with the hope of sinking their teachers in the dunk tank.

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A L U M N I N OT E S Lower 1996

Lower 2006 Gianna Safizadah (see U10)

Lower 2007 Yeojin “Amy” Ahn is currently working as a research fellow at the Yale Child Study Center. Amy graduated from Cornell University in 2015 with a bachelor of science in human development.

Lower 2008 Henry Mooney (see U12)

Lower 2009 Louis Mendel (see U13) Nicole (Gartrell) Ferro and her husband, Jeremy, are now parents of two boys! Micah James Ferro was born September 14, 2015. Only three more years until he starts PK! Nicole writes, “We are excited for Jameson (now 2 and a half) to have a little brother.” Linda and Gary Gartrell are ecstatic to have a second grandson.

Amol Pandya is in Louisiana studying petroleum engineering at LSU.

Lower 2010 Amanda Webb (see U14)

Upper 1970

Lower 1997

Alfred Yin has been staying busy. Aside from running Golden Harvest International a company that provides consultation for individuals interested in starting internet-based businesses. Alfred continues to be a valued member of the Southeastern Health Equity Council for the implementation of the National Partnership for Action to End Health Disparities.

Congratulations to Caitlin Black and Nathan Cooper (L91, U95), who are engaged to be married this year. Caitlin spent her winter break in Vienna with her mother and sister. While there, she visited Spanische Hofreitschule, a Spanish riding school. [Caitlin teaches riding at the Upper Campus.]

Upper 1971

Lower 1999

Wanda (Crawford) Koker wrote in to let us know that she has been living on the Big Island of Hawaii for the last 21 years.

She writes, “My husband and I moved our 4 children from Oregon in 1993 – A lifetime ago. We have 9 grandchildren now and they are all still here on the island with us! I am a substitute library assistant part time and, the rest of the time, I take care of our growing tribe, which is a full time job. It is fun to see familiar faces in the Family Tree.”

Christopher DeMoor (see U03)

Lower 2002 Tiana Coudray (see U06)

Lower 2003 Sarah (Biggs) Voorhees (see U07) 20

A L U M N I N OT E S Upper 1974

what was a rewarding but hard career in law enforcement and a long stretch as a bachelor, I feel as though I am reaping the rewards of having paid my dues, and I am now living the good life in terms of career and family.

“I’ll share a recent moment with all of you. Earlier this year, I flew the boss to Santa Ana. While there for a few days with nothing to do, I drove up to Ojai and out to White Rocks. For the first time in over 30 years I spent the afternoon hiking through the rocks remembering my (our) youth and all the good times, standing where we slept in our sleeping bags so many times, remembering how we hopped the rocks in playing capture the flag, and gazing at the mountains where we convinced the freshmen to bring their tennis rackets up to Pine Mountain Lodge. It was one of those almost magical moments. Although contact with old friends and classmates is far and few between, I’ll never forget the lessons learned at OVS, the memories made, or the friendships forged.”

MISSING PHOTO

Upper 1990

Mike Fry (pictured above) reported that he recently escaped from California and relocated to Asheville, North Carolina – which, according to Mike, has the most scenic motorcycle roads in the country.

Nicole (Vaupen) Sheard is currently a principal of Canyon Charter School in the Los Angeles School District.

Upper 1982 OVS was saddened to learn that Mark Farmer passed away on August 8, 2015.

Upper 1984 Scott Rodgers wrote in and brought us up to speed as follows: “In 2010, I retired from the Oklahoma City Police Department after 20 years in the patrol division. While on the police department, I had acquired a variety of pilot ratings and experience which included commercial helicopter and airline transport pilot ratings for fixed wing, contract flying for a variety of companies, and ownership of a small aircraft rental, lease, and management company.

ATTENTION: We welcome your updates anytime! Alumni news received before June 1, 2016, will be published in the next issue of Family Tree magazine.

You may submit your updates to the Office of Alumni Relations: Mail: 723 El Paseo Road, Ojai, CA 93023 Email: alumni@ovs.org www.ovs.org/alumni.

“When I retired from the PD, I was hired by an Oklahoma energy company to develop, manage, and fly for their new corporate flight department. Five years later, I’m still managing and flying for them, and life couldn’t be better.

“Since my last update with OVS, I also got married to a wonderful woman (Elena) and we have a beautiful daughter (Olesya). After

If you would like to get in touch with a classmate, please contact the Alumni Office at alumni@ovs.org or 805-640-2578.

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A L U M N I N OT E S Upper 2000

Alice Friend sent in this update: “Hello! My husband, Nathan, and I welcomed a son, Jack Carroll Burnham, to our family at 8 a.m. on Sept 18th. We closed on a new home at 1 p.m. the same day. That more or less illustrates our life for the past two years, so we're hoping for an exceedingly boring winter!

Our new home is an old farmhouse in Maine, and I look forward to learning how to cook on my new wood stove. My grandmother passed away in August. I miss Ojai everyday.�

Meghan E. Harter is a third-year Ph.D. candidate in education, cultural studies, and literacies at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. She presently serves as an independent contractor for the Ketchikan Indian Community (KIC) in Ketchikan, Alaska, conducting an education and work needs assessment for the KIC community. She is a recipient of the Native American Initiative Fellowship (2013-2014) and the Samuel M. Holton Graduate Fellowship in Foundations of Education (2014-Present). She recently co-authored an article published in the Journal of Mathematics Education at Teachers College as well as a chapter in an autoethnography textbook.

On August 2, 2015, Meghan married Samuel Alter of Carlsbad, California, in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

Upper 2003

ATTENTION: We welcome your updates anytime!

Alumni news received before June 1, 2016, will be published in the next issue of Family Tree magazine.

Congratulations to Christopher DeMoor, who married Whitney Justice on May 30, 2015, in Moorpark at the Eden Garden. Alums also in the photo include Becky (DeMoor) Perry (L97, U01), Nick DeYoung (L98, U02), and Jason Goldman (L01, U05).

You may submit your updates to the Office of Alumni Relations: Mail: 723 El Paseo Road, Ojai, CA 93023 Email: alumni@ovs.org www.ovs.org/alumni.

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A L U M N I N OT E S Upper 2006

Upper 2007

Tiana Coudray came home to Ojai for a brief visit in the fall but quickly returned to the chilly English countryside to resume training for the upcoming equestrian eventing season. Here’s an excerpt from her recent January 2016 blog: "The end of 2015 flew by, and the 2016 season is nearly upon us. The winter is supposed to bring with it a more relaxed schedule and a bit of down time, but we’re full speed ahead. I did manage to get home for Thanksgiving which was a nice chance to catch up with friends and family but, of course, it was too short, and there were so many people I didn’t get the chance to see. As much as I enjoyed going home, we have some big plans for the three grays this year: Sambuca, Halo, and Finn; and I was keen to get back to them. All three missed the end of last season due to injury or just plain bad luck, so we’re aiming to head down to Portugal for the CICs and CCIs at the end of February and trying to hit the ground running.

Eventing doesn’t start in the UK until March/April, so we want to get a jump-start on things, and maybe thaw ourselves out for two weeks in the sunshine.” Follow Tiana’s latest eventing news at her website: tianacoudrayeventing.com

Blake Estes started working for Griffith Observatory in September.

He explains his job as follows: “I'm a telescope operator/ demonstrator at Griffith Observatory. During the morning shifts, I teach elementary school kids about telescopes and how we find things in the sky. On lawn shift nights, I and a few other telescope operators use the 11" telescopes out in front of the Observatory to educate the public about what's going on up there. My favorite shift of all involves operating the 1935 16-foot long 12" aperture Zeiss Refractor Telescope in the east dome of the observatory. I am also working my way up to working at Mount Wilson Observatory on the 100" telescope that Edwin Hubble used to discover that the universe was expanding.”

Sarah (Biggs) Voorhees and her husband, Corey, welcomed their son, Henry Ray (below), into the world last June 11th. Henry weighed 7 pounds 5 ounces. Congratulations to the proud parents!

If you would like to get in touch with a classmate, please contact the Alumni Office at alumni@ovs.org or 805-640-2578.

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A L U M N I N OT E S Upper 2010 Gianna Safizadah is on her way to achieving her dreams.

Here’s her update: “I attended college and studied business administration. I also attended and completed residential real estate school and plan to open my own global real estate firm.

I also own and manage real estate properties and co-own a lounge and restaurant called Rain in Studio City. I developed the ideas that I had and pushed for them to become the best they could be.

“For many years, I have modeled and walked the runway for fashion designers. Although modeling is not my chosen career, I enjoy doing it and pursue it as much as I can. I became known in the modeling world mostly for runway modeling, but I am also known for runway production. I have produced several major runway shows for agents and hotels.

“Today, I am living in Europe, competing horses, modeling and looking for new real estate opportunities. Ever since I was a child, I was an avid equestrian. One of the reasons I chose to attend OVS was because of the amazing equestrian program at the school. My dream was to compete in high jumping classes and go to Europe. A few months ago, I began to plan my trip, and here I am, living my dream, touring the world.”

James Wickenhaeuser (second from right) has joined the UC Irvine rowing team and is loving the challenge, the teamwork, and his amazing coaches, but maybe not the early morning workouts!

Upper 2012

Henry Mooney graduated a semester early from Stony Brook University in New York, where he received his bachelor of science degree in Environmental Studies. He is now at The University of Stellenbosch, near Capetown, South Africa, working on his master’s in Sustainable Development. Congratulations, Henry!

ATTENTION: We welcome your updates anytime!

Alumni news received before June 1, 2016, will be published in the next issue of Family Tree magazine.

You may submit your updates to the Office of Alumni Relations: Mail: 723 El Paseo Road, Ojai, CA 93023 Email: alumni@ovs.org www.ovs.org/alumni.

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A L U M N I N OT E S Upper 2013

Upper 2014

Amanda Webb is having the time of her life studying geology at Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colorado.

Taylor Aronow reports that she is studying aesthetic education in Florence, Italy. “Basically what that means is I am studying Renaissance art and artists and then applying art as a way of both learning and expressing what has been learned,� she explains.

Carolita Landers writes, "I recently switched my first major from equine science to animal science. I'm also adding another major in conservation science. I'm hoping to be able to go into sustainable consulting for horse and cattle operations when I graduate. In my free time, I've been working a lot as a host and buser at a Mexican restaurant. I have also been doing a lot of hiking and outdoors activities. I recently went on a cross country ski trip in Eagle, Colorado. It took me back to the days of our OVS honors ski trips."

Louis Medel was awarded an Outstanding Academic Excellence Award at the ALANA Achievement Awards Banquet held at Ithaca College, Ithaca, NY, on September 19, 2015. He received an Academic Excellence Medallion with Blue Ribbon. This award was based on Louis' past year academic record, but also represents Louis' activity in ALANA student organizations as well as his involvement in Ithaca College programs and services that promote the persistence and success of ALANA students at Ithaca College. Congratulations, Louis!

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IN MEMORIAM HELENE MYERS HAMM (L39)

Generations of Lower Campus students remember that iconic sign which was, for many decades, located at the entrance to the school.

After graduating from OVS, Helene attended Nordhoff High School, which was, at that time, located next door to OVS’s Lower Campus. After her graduation in 1939, Helene enrolled at Ventura College. She studied Liberal Arts and graduated in 1941.

It was in the summer of 1940, while vacationing with family in Yosemite, that Helene met her future husband, Robert Hamm, who was working as a park ranger at the time. They married two years later.

Bob’s service in the U.S. Air Force during World War II led the young couple away from Ojai for a short time; they lived at Camp Callan in San Diego while Bob completed his service as chaplain’s assistant, then at Randolph Field, Texas, while he fulfilled his commission as Captain in the Chemical Warfare Service. At the end of the war, Helene and Bob moved back to Ojai and settled into family life, raising two children.

Helene Elizabeth Myers Hamm, a member of the Lower School class of 1936, passed away on July 9, 2015. She was 93.

Bob became the Ventura County Clerk and Recorder, and Helene enjoyed supporting his role as an elected public official though service to her community. She was involved with many Ojai and county-wide organizations, serving as a charter member of several groups, including the Ojai Valley Junior Women’s Club (she was elected president in 1950), and the Assistance League of Ventura County, which she faithfully served for more than 50 years. Helene was also active in Las Patrones Auxiliary for many decades and volunteered her services for the Ojai Valley Tennis Tournament. In addition, Helene served as president of Villanova Preparatory School’s Mothers’ Club, volunteered at the Ojai Valley Community Hospital, and was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Helene was born in Oxnard, California, the only child of Charles and Iva Myers. Her great-grandfather, John Poplin, had come to Ventura County from Kansas in 1885 and had purchased a large portion of the original Spanish land grant of Don Jose de Arnaz (an area now known as Rancho Arnaz), establishing what would eventually become five generations in the local farming community.

Helene’s grandfather, Adley Poplin, a well-known Ojai Valley pioneer and citrus rancher, purchased the historic Carne residence and surrounding Bonito Rancho in 1912. Helene proudly carried on her ancestors’ legacy of ranching on Bonito Rancho, where she grew oranges and lemons. The property remains in the family to this day.

Helene lived nearly all of her life in Ojai. She grew up riding her pony across the valley and through its ranches—the same land where her pioneer ancestors had cultivated citrus and wheat back when Ojai was still known as Nordhoff.

Helene became a passionate and accomplished genealogist, and her exceptional research skills enabled her to uncover and substantiate centuries-worth of family history. Respected by fellow researchers for her meticulous documentation of source information, she was often consulted for her expertise. One of her greatest joys was helping budding genealogists discover their family trees. She formed lasting bonds of friendship with many of the relatives she discovered across the country, some of which continue on through her children and grandchildren.

An OVS student from the second through ninth grades, Helene often recounted being one of only three students who comprised the class of 1936. Her many creative talents were nurtured at OVS. She and two of her shop classmates crafted a copper sign in the shape of an oak tree which they gave to the school upon their graduation.

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IN MEMORIAM Gifted with many creative abilities, Helene was especially talented in the lost arts of sewing and needlework. She made beautiful, hand-stitched clothing for her children and grandchildren, intricate, detailed fancywork, as well as meticulously embellished and embroidered Christmas ornaments.

Helene was known for her beautiful flowers and her ability to make virtually anything grow, and her garden was a well-manicured tapestry of colorful blossoms. She was a member of the Ojai Garden Club for more than half a century. Having inherited her love of gardening from her mother, Helene passed on her green thumb to the next generation.

When she was 70, Helene became computer literate and, in her nineties, was quite the computer whiz. She was also a savvy bridge player, a superlative chocolate frosting maker, and a doting grandmother who often hosted sleepovers and played games with her grandchildren.

A true Ojai old-timer and an authentic link to a bygone era, Helene was a treasure-trove of firsthand knowledge about the Valley’s history, its original pioneer families, and its agricultural heritage.

Her children and grandchildren loved hearing her recount tales of her ancestors’ migration west and of growing up during Ojai’s simpler days.

Those who knew her best admired Helene for her intelligence, creativity, determination, wit, courage, and for her willingness to speak her mind. She touched the lives of many friends with quiet acts of kindness and graced her family with sweet memories of a warm and caring home.

Self-sacrificing in her devotion and generosity to her family, Helene was unfailingly attentive and caring, a true blessing in the lives of her husband, children, and grandchildren, all of whom loved her dearly.

She is survived by her daughter, Sharon Booth of Ojai; son, David Hamm (Rochelle) of Mountain View, CA; granddaughter, Kimberly Booth of San Francisco; and grandson, Avery Hamm of Mountain View, CA. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Hamm, and by her son-in-law, Dr. Richard Booth.

Expressions of sympathy in remembrance of Helene may be made to her favorite charity, Veterans of Foreign Wars, 3801 Market Street, Ventura, CA 93003, or to Help of Ojai, P.O. Box 621, Ojai, CA 93024.

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OVS Alumni Weekend, 2016 – June 10-­‐12 Schedule of Events Main Event Dinner held at the Lower Campus

Friday, June 10th

EVENT

LOCATION

DETAILS

Morning

Golf Foursomes

Ojai Valley Inn

Contact alumni@ovs.org for more information (additional fee required)

After 4:00 p.m.

Dorm Room Self Check-­‐in

Lower & Upper Dorms

Bring towels, toiletries, pillows, and bedding if you will be staying in the dorms.

4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Alumni Weekend Check-­‐in & Information Table

Lower Campus Alan F. Pearson Center

Pick up your reunion materials and name badge – you will need your badge to enter Saturday’s Main Event Dinner

4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Wine & Cheese Welcome Reception

Lower Campus Alan F. Pearson Center

Join us for live music and a delectable spread.

th

Saturday, June 11

TIME

EVENT

LOCATION

DETAILS

Enjoy at your leisure

Tennis, Ping Pong, Basketball

Lower Campus Various Locations

Equipment is available to checkout at the information table.

8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

Continental Breakfast

Lower Campus Dining Hall

Fixings for hikers' lunches available during breakfast.

8:45 a.m. to approx. 1:00 p.m.

Guided Hike in the Sespe

Meet at Lower Dining Hall

For all levels of ability. Transportation provided. Bring hiking attire, sunscreen, and a backpack.

9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Ropes Course

Upper Campus Ropes Course

Test your skills on the high wires, leap off poles, and zip down the zip line. (Ages 14+)

Noon to 6:00 p.m.

Alumni Weekend Check-­‐in & Information Table

Lower Campus Hermes Quad

Let us know you're here and receive your OVS gift.

Enjoy photos, yearbooks, and purchase OVS spirit wear.

Noon to 4:00 p.m.

Pool Open

Lower Campus

Enjoy a refreshing dip in the pool.

Noon to 1:00 p.m.

Lunch

Lower Campus Dining Hall

Enjoy a buffet lunch as past and present faculty and staff members are honored.

2:00 p.m.

All Alumni Soccer Game

Lower Campus Soccer Field

Watch or play. Families of alums welcome to participate.

Water and soft drinks provided.

4:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Child Care

Lower Campus Pre-­‐school

Leave the little ones to play for the evening.

Dinner provided.

ALUMNI W EE KE ND

•

S CHEDUL E O F EVE N T S

TIME

THE MAIN EVENT: GRAND CELEBRATION DINNER

Lower Campus Founder’s Alumni Award presented, speeches, and dessert.

Grand Celebration Dinner Greenberg Activities *reservations required* Center

6:00 p.m.

Sunday, June 12th

Join us for cocktails and group photos (class photos begin at 5:00 p.m.)

Lower Campus Pool

Poolside Social

4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

TIME

EVENT

LOCATION

DETAILS

9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

Pony Rides

Upper Campus

Pony rides for children.

9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Closing Day Brunch

Lower Campus

Join us for a continental brunch at the Lower Campus.

4/4/16 subject to change

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OJAI VALLEY SCHOOL ALUMNI WEEKEND, 2016

JUNE 10-­‐12, 2016 -­‐ REGISTRATION FORM

Please return your completed form with payment by June 1 to: OVS Alumni Office • 723 El Paseo Road • Ojai, CA 93023

Name _______________________________________________________________________________ Class of ____________________________

City _______________________________________ State ___________ Zip ____________________ Country ____________________________ E-­‐mail ____________________________________ Home phone ____________________________ Cell phone __________________________ Name(s) of adult guest(s) __________________________________________________________________________________________________ Name(s) & age(s) of child(ren) ______________________________________________________________________________________________

Activities Please let us know which events you would like to participate in and the number in your party:

Friday, June 10th # of people

TIME

EVENT

LOCATION

Morning

Golf Foursomes

Ojai Valley Inn

4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Wine & Cheese Welcome Reception

Lower Campus Alan F. Pearson Center

Saturday, June 11th # of people

LOCATION

8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

Continental Breakfast

Lower Campus Dining Hall

8:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (approximately)

Guided Hike in the Sespe

Meet at Lower Dining Hall

9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Ropes Course

Upper Campus Ropes Course

Noon to 1:00 p.m.

Lunch

Lower Campus Dining Hall

2:00 p.m.

Alumni Soccer Game

Lower Campus Soccer Field

4:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Childcare/ Teen Lounge during Alumni Dinner (dinner provided for children)

Lower Campus Pre-­‐school

THE MAIN EVENT Poolside Social and Grand Celebration Dinner

Lower Campus Greenberg Activities Center

TIME

EVENT

LOCATION

9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

Pony Rides

Upper Campus

9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Closing Day Brunch

Lower Campus

4:30 p.m. & 6:00 p.m.

Sunday, June 12th # of people

Please provide your payment information on the back side of this page.

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REGIS TR ATION

EVENT

•

TIME

ALUMNI WEEKEND 2016

Address __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

S CHEDU LE O F EVE N T S

Accommodations Please bring your own towels, pillows, bedding/sleeping bags, and toiletries for dorm accommodations.

I will need dorm rooms for _______ people at: ! Lower Campus

! Upper Campus

Reunion Fee ALL meals, campus accommodations, and activities (except $89 for golf) are included in these fees.

Alumni Weekend Fee: *$60 per adult *Registration fee increases by $15 per person if paying after June 1st Saturday evening childcare and weekend accommodations for children 4-­‐16 is free

Round up for OVS!

Your tax-­‐deductible gift supports the 2015-­‐16 Annual Fund, which funds new educational initiatives, including new technology and classroom materials, faculty enrichment grants, improvements to our equestrian, athletic and outdoor education programs, as well as increased scholarships and financial aid. Supporting the Annual Fund is the best way to have a positive impact on the daily lives of our students and faculty.

! $25 ! $50 ! $100 ! $200 ! Other

Payment

•

! Check Enclosed. Please make check payable to Ojai Valley School

ALUMNI W EE K END

AW Fee $_______

Donation $_______

TOTAL $_______

! Credit Card.

If you would like to pay with a credit card, for your security, please visit www.ovs.org/aw

or call 805-­‐640-­‐2578.

Alumni Note Tell us about your family, work, interests, a recent vacation, a new venture in your life, share an accomplishment or an OVS memory. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

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Join us for the 3rd annual spring Gala on May 14, 2016 — a farm-to-table dinner and live auction at the Upper Campus. The event, which benefits the OVS Annual Fund, provides an opportunity for all of us to celebrate the future growth of Ojai Valley School and enjoy time together as members of a shared community. Last year, the Gala raised more than $72,000 thanks to the generous support of alumni, current and past parents, faculty and staff.

Please contact the Development Office at development@ovs.org if you are interested in purchasing tickets or donating auction items for this event.

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Address Service Requested

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 46 Ojai, CA 93023

M E M B E R

printed on recycled paper

ojai valley school summer camp June 26 to August 6, 2016 Ages 3 to 16

Get a JUMP on summer ... Register now!

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summer.ovs.org