Graduates of the class of 2025 exit the Ambrogi Gates following Commencement
Photo by Fred Voelker.
Inside Cover Photo
A lone baseball is discovered one morning on the Yellow Brick road the day after the first baseball practice of the 2025 season
Photo by Fred Voelker.
Michael A. Marinelli, Ed.D. ’76 Head of School
Katie Eissler-Thiel Principal
3600 Philadelphia Pike Claymont, DE 19703
ArchmereAcademy.com
Mission Statement
Archmere Academy is a Catholic, Norbertine college preparatory school, valuing community, respect, zeal, reverence, and wisdom. Nurturing body and soul, mind and heart, Archmere focuses on the whole person through academic excellence, faith reflection, social development, and service to others. Inspired by its heritage, Archmere cultivates empathic leaders—young men and women prepared for every good work.
In This Issue
4 From the Head of School
Dr. Michael A. Marinelli, Ed.D. ’76 discusses A.I. and its impacts.
8 "Teamwork All The Way"
Rev. Joseph McLaughlin, O. Praem., reflects on Carl Campion ’76.
11 A Celebration
The Rocco A. and Mary Abessinio Performing Arts Center is Dedicated.
24 Alumni Spotlight
Glass Artist Gregory Tomb ’96 returns to make an impact at Archmere.
From the Head of School
Improving Process Through Innovation
By Michael A. Marinelli, Ed.D. ’76
We decided to add additional (environmentally friendly) parking on the north side of the Patio. We installed the lot a couple of summers ago with a good deal of help from Jim Maddox ’89, Board member, alumnus, parent of alumni, and parent of a current student. As Jim was preparing and leveling the area, he found buried in the ground a glass bottle with what looked like some solid black stones rattling in it. The bottle did not have the cap, but on the clear glass was embossed “Esquire Scuff Kote.” Jim had discovered a dried-up bottle of liquid shoe polish, which, I found out through a little research, was popularly used in
the 1950s and 1960s. When he and Carl Campion ’76 gave it to me for safekeeping in the school archives, my mind immediately envisioned a boarding student one Spring afternoon, sitting under a tree near the Patio, shining his school shoes. I thought, “Was it a warm day? Was he with friends or alone, enjoying the quiet of that part of the campus? Were the tennis courts nearby, where they are today along Myrtle Avenue, or were they still located along the yellow-brick road where Saint Norbert Hall was built?”
According to Wikipedia, in the 1950s, a combination of waxes, oils, solvents, and dyes were used to make shoe polish. A variety of waxes: paraffin, carnauba, beeswax, microcrystalline, and shellac would be combined with turpentine oil and mineral spirits. Colored ink was added to provide the particular color of the polish. Other ingredients were also added during the manufacturing process, which included heating the waxes to a specific temperature, then blending the waxes and adding the dye to the blend of solvents, mixing all of the ingredients together.
Today, the ingredients for making shoe polish are essentially the same as the 1950s; however, the manufacturing process has become more sophisticated. Chemical engineering advancements in mixing and blending equipment ensure precise ingredient proportions and a homogenous mixture. Newer formulations allow for more synthetic waxes and dyes with better performance characteristics compared to older options. Modern production methods take into account the environment, with a focus on reducing the amount of harmful volatile organic compounds in the solvents used. With advances in science, engineering, and technology, shoe polish production can provide a variety of products in the market, such as leather conditioners, waterproofing treatments, and different shine levels, which were not as available in the 1950s.
My research into the manufacturing of shoe polish, triggered by the “gift” of the small artifact, conjured up for me a picture of school life sixty or seventy years ago. Certainly different from school life today, the shoe polish bottle accentuates for me an even more profound shift that is taking place at Archmere and other institutions of learning around the world starting now and in the coming years - the application of artificial intelligence into our everyday work of teaching and forming the next
An Esquire Scuff Kote shoe polish bottle unearthed outside near the Patio during a recent excavation.
generation of leaders. Like the bottle of shoe polish, AI has been “unearthed,” but it is not sitting on a shelf as part of our archives. It is generative and already making an impact on our daily lives. Like the perfection of shoe polish manufacturing, as it is refined, AI can create new formulations and efficiencies, address environmental considerations framing its growth and integration, and can be applied to provide a variety of opportunities for individuals’ successes previously not made possible.
AI in Education
As the head of a private school, I have received numerous advertisements for lectures and workshops, have been solicited by start-up companies to demonstrate AI applications in educational settings, and have read a number of articles on how to effectively integrate AI into education. Just a short time ago, the question was, “Should we or should we not use AI in teaching and learning?” With the rapid advances in technology and, more specifically, AI, it seems that the question is no longer, “Should we or should we not?” but, “How should we integrate this everevolving technology into our schools?” From the slide rule to the hand-held calculator in the 1970s, from computer labs to computers on carts, to personal laptops in a completely wireless environment by 2011, technology has been making an impact on the way we teach and learn at Archmere. However, unlike previous technologies, AI has the potential to reshape pedagogy, assessment, and educators’ roles in significant ways. While this is an exciting thought, it is also a daunting thought, because of the questions raised around ethics, equitability, and the preservation of human relationships and interactions.
The Impact of AI on Teaching
The use of artificial intelligence will not replace teachers; however, I believe it will affect the way we teach. Consider the potential benefits of implementing AI for teachers and students. Differentiated instruction and personalized learning - phrases not new to education that we tout as significant elements of value in our independent schools - can be significantly enhanced with AI technology. Teachers have an extraordinary tool with which they can customize their students’ learning experiences from creative approaches in teaching the foundational concepts, to more advanced critical thinking and problem-solving skills, to effective and constructive real-time assessment. After completion of an assessment, AI is able to assist with spiraling back to present additional support and content-specific material to the student in the areas where the student’s performance was deficient. Using AI, teachers can save hours of preparation and assessment time required to fashion each student’s learning experience, and use that time instead to focus on
meaningful, invaluable one-to-one teaching interactions. In addition, interested faculty members may use the time to conduct action research more easily using AI, thereby providing career advancement opportunities for teachers without leaving the classroom, as well as overall academic enrichment for the school.
The Impact of AI on Learning
Currently, students take our advanced placement research courses and the cancer research course in collaboration with CHOP. Next fall, they will be enrolling in the newly created engineering and design practicum in collaboration with alumni in the field to deepen their knowledge in particular areas of interest. AI can be an effective resource for students who have particular interests in these areas of study and wish to supplement classroom discussions with more extensive research.
There is a real concern about the academic integrity and assessment of student work. Currently, Archmere has in place a number of academic policies to ensure the authenticity of student work. The validation of the originality of student work will be an ongoing issue with AI-generated material, making plagiarism detection tools an important development. However, as we have already been moving from standardized assessments and assessments that focus on measuring lower-order thinking skills, with the advent of AI, this trend will be accelerated by providing the tools to evaluate student performance in more dynamic and continuous ways, focused on higherorder thinking skills. AI-powered analytics can assess a student’s progress based on their interactions with learning materials, participation in discussions, and even their problem-solving strategies.
AI use in independent schools, such as Archmere, will potentially have a great impact on the classroom model, since we have the flexibility and academic autonomy to adjust curriculum and pilot new programs. The results will most likely include more interactivity, personalization, and periods of independent learning for students, with teachers serving as academic coaches, guides, and advisors, who can point to resources and pose key critical questions that support students’ learning paths.
The Impact of AI on Academy Administration
AI-powered automation can create efficiencies in many administrative areas of the Academy, including admissions, scheduling, facilities management, and financial planning. AI has the potential to significantly enhance the efficiency of educational institutions. In a highly tuition-driven operating environment, finding cost savings in the administrative functions can help curb the annual rate of increase in tuition.
As a recent example of the power of AI, I wrote an email to a Norbertine colleague in another country regarding collaborations around our global studies initiatives. I was able to translate the entire document into the target language using AI in a few seconds. While idiomatically, there could be translation mishaps, the intent of communicating quickly and efficiently was met. This experience compared exponentially quicker to a project of several years ago, when I asked the help of the world language teachers to translate my materials from English into Spanish, French, and German. These AI-driven translation and speech recognition technologies can also be used to make educational resources more accessible to non-native speakers, particularly those international students coming to Archmere who already have good working language skills, but might need assistance with translations in certain disciplines. Similarly, AI-powered assistive technologies can support students with learning differences, providing speech-to-text tools, real-time captioning, and adaptive learning interfaces tailored to individual needs.
AI-driven predictive data models can assist with enrollment planning, occupancy expenses, and other macro and microeconomic trends. Currently, our admissions office is using an AI-powered chatbot on our school website to answer commonly asked questions of prospective families anytime, day or night, not just during regular office hours.
AI Challenges
As with any new invention, there are challenges and ethical considerations. Since AI technology is generative, it is accumulating vast amounts of information, and the issue of data privacy is a concern. How information is stored, protected, and used are key questions. Data gathered around a student’s educational experience has to be thoughtfully managed, and the process made transparent to teachers, students, and parents. Another educational concern is AI-driven biases. The algorithms developed within AI are based on the data that is fed into the system, which could have potentially inherit biases. These biases are perpetuated within the AI model, so human interaction with AI needs to ensure fair representation and equity in what AI generates.
Preparing Students for an AI-Driven World
It seems apparent that AI will impact so many aspects of our everyday lives. While it has the capacity to manipulate vast amounts of data to achieve efficiencies and complete tasks in fractions of the time it would take human effort, AI cannot replace the human touch - creativity, adaptability, emotional intelligence, empathy, and ethical decision-making. Our next generation, using these human skills, must work collaboratively to harness the
tremendous power of AI and use it for good. As a Catholic Norbertine school, I believe that our students have an “edge” in assuming this task. As they experience and witness a community that is based on values and ethics in a deeply-rooted religious tradition, students are able to gain practical and appropriate experiences in AI literacy in our curriculum, understanding the fundamentals of AI and empowering them to use technology responsibly.
Conclusion
We are probably unable to imagine all the ways artificial intelligence may transform our educational experience. However, like the formula for shoe polish in which the fundamental ingredients have not changed significantly over the years though the processes have become more efficient and precise, I believe that the essential ingredients of an Archmere education will remain unchanged: that being the excellent teachers and staff working with motivated students who are supported by likeminded families, understanding the value of a rigorous, faith-based education. Like the improved shoe polish production methodology that provides a greater variety of product outcomes, AI will help us fashion more unique academic experiences, based on each student. Knowing each other as individuals within the Archmere community will continue to be critically important and fundamental to the Archmere experience, though the methods with which we teach and learn, and the environments and timeframes may change in time. The Strategic Planning Committee of the Board, under the leadership of Jim Prendergast ’77, Chair and parent of alumni, is addressing the impact of artificial intelligence as one of the key conversations in developing strategic initiatives that envision an Archmere of 2032 and beyond. Throughout the history of Archmere, this learning community has always been on the cutting edge, seemingly aware of “the next big thing,” and carefully assessing its value and impact through the lens of the Academy’s mission. I am confident that we will carefully and mindfully maintain that edge in the future, shaping the next generation of “empathetic leaders prepared for every good work.”
Sincerely,
Michael A. Marinelli, Ed.D. ’76 Head of School
Campus News
Networking unites Alums and Current Students
By Patricial Maher, Assistant Director of College Counseling
Organized by Associate Director of College Counseling Mrs. Suzyn-Elayne Soler, Archmere’s College Counseling Office hosted its fourth annual career and college event on Feburary 5th, offering individualized programming for all grade levels. The day’s activities grew out of a long-standing Archmere tradition of inviting college-aged alumni back to campus to share their college experiences with present Archmere students. Programming has evolved over the years to differentiate the message for the various grade levels as well as leverage Archmere’s generous and knowledgeable young alumni. What emerged was a series of concurrent activities designed to foster college and career readiness.
Close to forty young alumni from the classes of 2005 through 2020 returned to Archmere to interact with students and share their academic and professional experiences. Seniors attended a networking event in the Patio where they engaged with these young professionals from various professions, including wealth management, government affairs, engineering, medicine, and the entertainment industry. Logan Bustard ’25 enjoyed the networking opportunity and the approachability of the half-dozen engineers gathered in the Patio. “Meeting so many engineers was very interesting, and hearing their stories made me feel more confident in my path going forward,” Bustard said.
Sophomores and juniors attended the Young Alumni Panel facilitated by Director of Enrollment and Admissions Mrs. Leah Lightcap and Associate Director of Admissions and College Counselor Mr. Logan Duffie. Panelists fielded questions about their journeys toward their present careers in Government, Nursing, BioTech, Business, and IT, how their college experiences and studies prepared them for this path, and how the skills developed at Archmere continue to impact their success in their chosen career fields. Meredith Finger ’26 was grateful for the opportunity to ask questions of graduates who were strategically selected to represent a diverse group of career pathways. “The panel was a great way for students to understand the importance of networking,” Finger said, adding that “It allowed us as juniors to ask questions about how to make our job searches easier after college.”
Meanwhile, Director of College Counseling Mr. Chris Boehm introduced ninth graders to foundational themes and philosophies of the college admissions process through an interactive activity called “The Great Sorting Game” in the Student Life Center. “For our first-year students, we want to share healthy early messages about the college process, emphasizing the importance of transitioning to Archmere
academically and socially and communicating to teachers, counselors, and parents if the transition isn’t going as well as the student had hoped,” Boehm said. “We then hope to share some additional messages, in a light-hearted fashion, about how a student’s actions during high school may positively or negatively impact their future college decision.”
The simultaneous events each align with various stages in the college and career discernment process. “The Young Alumni Career Panel (for sophomores and juniors) is deliberately formed to represent a broad range of careers and years of experience,” said Soler. “We want the experiences of our panelists to represent fields that we know the current students are interested in, as well as fields we hope they will be interested in learning more about.”
Seniors appreciated the broader goal of the Networking Event as they made their college decisions. Soler said, “All of the alumni participants have valuable advice and experiences to share,” experiences that range from transitioning to college to internships and job interviews. The events--while beneficial and informative for our present students--also serve a greater purpose, according to Boehm. “[The day] engages our alumni family and brings them back to campus. We believe the day has unlimited potential as we continue to make small adaptations that allow for more alumni to participate and provide even a greater service to our future graduates.”
It’s this desire to help this generation of Archmere students that inspired Colleen Byrnes ’13, Senior Manager of Global Email Communications at Condé Nast, to return to campus for the networking event. “I remember being intimidated by the job force and feeling like I had no idea how to get from where I was to where the people were who were standing in front of me, established in their careers,” Byrnes said. “I wanted the chance to help even just one other student feeling the same way I did to have some concrete examples of how to navigate the college and career landscape.”
Alums returned to the Patio to network with Archmere Seniors. Additional programming was held for ninth through eleventh graders as part of the College Counseling Career Networking Event.
Mission and Heritage
“Teamwork All the Way”
By Rev. Joseph McLaughlin, O. Praem.
Carl S. Campion applied to Archmere Academy on January 22, 1972 at age 13. He was in 8th grade at Our Lady of Peace School in Milmont Park, PA, a parish served by Norbertines for weekend masses. Carl’s father, who signed the application, noted that one source of information about Archmere was Father Arthur LaLuzerne, O.Praem., who was the first principal of Archmere (1970-1972). The application noted that Carl expected to go to college, possibly Swarthmore College, had not yet decided on a career, was in good health, did regular exercise, and intended to ride Archmere’s Delaware County bus. Carl visited Archmere on February 13, 1972, took the entrance exam on February 26, and was accepted on March 27, 1972
The 1972-1973 school year began on August 25 with Fall sports practices, with rostering on September 6, and the first day of school on Thursday, September 7. Carl got right to work. In the four yearbooks that cover Carl’s Archmere student days, he is pictured on 22 pages, revealing a very involved Auk: intramurals (1,2,3,4), team manager (1,2,3,4), trainer (1,2,3,4), baseball (1,2,3,4), hockey (2), field liner (3), yearbook (1,3), Spanish Club (1,2), Spanish Honor Society (2,3,4; vice-president 4), Science Club (1,2), Physics Club.
The 1975 Patio notes on page 49: "No basketball game at Archmere would ever get underway if Carl Campion weren’t around to raise the practice hoops." The 1976 Patio notes on page 67: "Carl poses nonchalantly, contemplating the approximately 130 games served and the countless rolls of tape he has dispensed," Under another picture, on pge 10, a glimpse of the future is had with the caption: "Carl
Campion and his girlfriend, Joyce, ’sit and watch’ for a while." Finally, that same senior yearbook is recorded: "Carl Campion ... received ... ’I dare you’ Award for leadership" (page 142). In his senior year, Carl was the first recipient of the Frat Award, given for outstanding service to the gym.
On June 6, 1976, the Feast of St. Norbert, Carl received both the Activities and the Archmere Medals at graduation, the two highest awards Archmere bestows. Carl entered Saint Joseph’s College in the Fall of 1976.
During his four years at Saint Joe’s, Carl made the journey to Archmere during semester breaks and summer vacations, serving with the maintenance staff in cleaning the buildings, maintaining the grounds, trimming the holly trees, weeding the formal garden, and pruning the hedge in front of St, Norbert Hall and along Manor Avenue, after the example of his headmaster, Father Justin Diny, O.Praem.
On May 20, 1980, Carl’s career path was clear and he signed his contract for a teaching position at Archmere. Since then, Carl has taught Honors Chemistry, AP Chemistry, and Physics, while earning a Master’s at West Chester University.
Carl has also served in a myriad of ways: athletic trainer, student council
Carl Campion pictured at the far right, as team manager of the Varsity basketball team.
Carl Campion raises the hoops for basketball practice.
moderator, director of maintenance, director of housekeeping, prefect of discipline, arborist, class counselor for all four grades, Mac Network Administrator, and Director of Academic Technology. He has served on the Academic Honesty Committee, Discipline Committee, Headmaster’s Council, Principal’s Council, and the Principal Search Committee. He has helped with countless garage sales and after proms, especially those for his two sons: Matthew ’03 and Andrew ’07.
In his first teacher evaluation (1981) department chairman, Paul Pomeroy wrote: "No job is ever too tough or too menial for Carl. He is totally dependable. ... to me he is the perfect representation of what Archmere stands for." Never one to boast of his accomplishments, Carl did write to me on June 18, 1994 from Saint George’s School in Rhode Island where he was teaching summer school: "How about those AP scores!!! I told Paul I finally got real close to the Pomeroy and Manerchia league. I’m happy for the kids. They did well."
On June 7, 1989 Carl, alerted to the disaster by the shouts of his wife, Joyce, helped another man pull three girls, ages 16, 15, 14, from the Pershing Run Creek in Claymont during a heavy rainstorm and flash flood. Carl told The News Journal the next day: "It was teamwork all the way. Neither of us could have done it alone. ... God looked down on those young ladies like you wouldn’t believe." With Carl, "it has been teamwork all the way."
As Director of Academic Technology during the 2009-2010 school year, Carl prepared the way for the school-wide laptop program that commenced in August 2010. The original chapel in St. Norbert Hall became the Technology Center, staffed by Carl. The chapel was moved to the site of the original library, renamed the Oratory, and renovated to hold 130 people, the size of one current class.
Carl installed flat screens in St. Norbert Hall, The Justin Diny Science Center, and the Student Life Center. Each day Carl provides the date and day of the school cycle, the birthdays of students and faculty (weekend birthdays on Mondays), a picture and biography of the Saint of the Day, a quotation of the day with a picture of the speaker, the weather forecast, the names of the 8th grade shadow visitors, and a word of the day with its definition and use in a sentence. During Carl’s sophomore year (1973-1974), I gave the sophomores a weekly list of twenty words to know, spell, and use in a sentence. Some of those words have appeared on the flatscreen. Carl is both the institutional memory and the living history of Archmere.
Beginning in 2016, with the collaboration of Head of School Michael Marinelli ’76 and Principal John Jordan ’80, an award is given "recognizing devoted, consistent, humble service for the good of the community, to one whose selfless qualities have left the school community better than he
or she found it, a service that embodies the core value community values of respect, zeal, wisdom, and reverence. On February 5, 2016, Carl received the first award, which is now named the "Carl S. Campion Service Award."
In 2022, Carl and Joyce relocated from North Wilmington to Lewes, Delaware. Carl spends the weekends in Lewes but during the school week lives in an apartment on the 3rd floor of The Patio, in the former infirmary of the Raskob family – a fitting second home for Carl who has devoted his whole life to Archmere. Carl is the first person in Saint Norbert Hall every morning, and when I arrive at about 6:30 AM to set up for a monthly school-wide Mass, Carl’s first words to me are: "What can I do?" This year he helped set up Mass in the Moglia Fieldhouse with a sound system. He also provided the sound system for events in The Patio, the Student Life Center, and the Quad (for the Blessing of the Advent Wreath). Carl’s current office is the former office for the chaplain of Archmere, next to the Tech Center. As Mrs. Raskob said of the Music Room in The Patio, so, Carl’s work in the former chapel of St. Norbert Hall "strengthens the soul" of Archmere.
On June 2, 2007, at the Baccalaureate Mass for Carl’s son, Andrew ’07, Carl was given the 2007 Alumnus of the Year Award "because of the uninterrupted presence and humble service" of Carl to Archmere - "with admiration and gratitude" to Carl - "student and teacher, mentor and servant, son and father, husband and friend." In the words of Mrs. Raskob, Carl has made Archmere "a dream come true."
Carl Campion and his girlfriend, wife to be, Joyce in 1976.
Campus News
Dedication of the Rocco A. and Mary Abessinio Performing Arts Center
Ground was broken by Abbot John Neitzel, O.Praem., for the Performing Arts Center on March 17, 1982. The design included a 750-seat theater, an art exhibition hall in the lobby space, a green room and dressing rooms, a band room and a chorus room, faculty offices, and practice rooms. The center was dedicated on the Feast of All Saints, November 1, 1983, at a Mass celebrated by the Most Reverend Thomas J. Mardaga, Bishop of Wilmington, in the presence of the entire student body, faculty, and staff. According to the school’s archives, more than half of the student body became involved in the music and drama programs almost immediately, creating a concert band and chorus, a select choral group known as the Mastersingers, and a stage band.
The theater - “the house” - has been the main gathering place for the Archmere community of students, faculty, staff, and families for more than forty years. Regular assemblies and rituals that build community, one of our core Catholic Norbertine values, include Mass on holy days and special seasons of the liturgical year, theatrical performances, lectures, assemblies, and special events, including the Honors Convocation, Junior Class Ring Mass, Baccalaureate Mass, and Commencement Exercises. The center is the first place that prospective families experience when they arrive on campus for the Open Houses each year. As in our own homes, we want to make a visitor feel welcome and genuinely appreciated.
Thanks to a most generous gift of $3 million from Mr. and Mrs. Rocco Abessinio, the capital campaign, “Let’s Renovate the House,” was a successful venture in underwriting the projected costs of renovating the performing arts center.
modified. The earth berms on the south side of the building were removed, and large windows were installed along the lobby wall overlooking what is now called the “theater garden.” A large marquis wraps around the building’s lower roof line carrying the name: Rocco A. and Mary Abessinio Performing Arts Center. On the west facade, a large coat of arms and the Abessinio name are mounted at a high point on the brick wall, and the refreshed stucco walls are washed in LED lighting. A new entrance added to the side of the building allows easy access to the lobby from the parking lot, providing appropriate ADA accommodations.
The gift, of which $1 million was structured as a one-to-one matching gift challenge, attracted many more gifts from loyal donors, raising over $6.5 million.
Beginning on June 2, 2024, the renovation of the Center began with architectural designs by ABHA and construction management by EDiS. For the next nine months, renovations progressed. Shortly after the return of students and faculty from Christmas vacation, the band and choral rooms were completed. Music classes, temporarily held in the basement of the Patio in the former bowling alley, now a dance/ movement studio, were moved back into these refurbished spaces. By March, theatrical light and sound installations and final details were completed.
In addition to the renovated interior spaces, the exterior envelope of the building was repaired, painted, and
Significant design changes to the lobby and the theater have enhanced the quality of the sound and lighting in the space. New audience seating to accommodate 763 guests eliminates the bothersome sound of the old retracting seat bottoms, as well as the unsightly duct-taped cushions and deteriorating frames on some of the chairs. Spaces for wheelchair guests are incorporated into the seating design.
On
March
David Hogan ’87, Board of Trustees Chair, Michael Marinelli Ed.D.’76, Head of School, Rocco Abessinio, and Mary Abessinio cut the ribbon at the ecidaction of the Rocco A. and Mary Abessinio Performing Arts Center on Sunday, March 30, 2025.
Sunday,
30, 2025, the Fourth Sunday of Lent - Laetare Sunday - the Rocco A. and Mary Abessinio Performing Arts Center was officially dedicated and blessed during a Mass celebrated by the Most Reverend William E. Koenig, Bishop of Wilmington.
Awards and Recognition
Archmere Art Students Recognized with 186 Awards in 2025 Art Competition
RYLON O’DONNELL ‘25
TEACHER: STEPHANIE SILVERMAN ‘00
Archmere Academy students were awarded a total of 186 awards across thirteen art and design categories in the 2025 Scholastics Art & Writing Awards competition. Notable highlights this year include a record number of Gold Keys awarded to a single student in the category of Architecture & Industrial Design, with Roman Guerrieri ’25 winning three Gold Keys in the category, and the most individual awards for a single student. Seniors won four Art Portfolios: Jace Walker ’25 Silver and Gold (two portfolios), Grace Yang ’25 won Gold, and Rylon O’Donnell ’25 won a Silver Portfolio Award for Fashion, the first Fashion portfolio ever awarded to Archmere. Sophia Silverman ’28 was awarded a record twenty-three individual awards across six categories. Archmere students were also collectively awarded an impressive fifty-five awards in the Drawing & Illustration category.
The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards competition is the nation’s longest-running and most prestigious contest for creative teens. Luminaries such as Andy Warhol, Truman Capote, Stephen King, and Sylvia Plath were all first recognized in this contest when they were in high school.
JACE WALKER ‘25 Portraiture
TEACHER: RACHEL BRIGGS & STEPHANIE SILVERMAN ‘00
ROMAN GUERRIERI ‘25
ROMAN GUERRIERI ‘25
Rylon O’Donnell ’25 Fashion Gold Key Winner
WALKER ‘25 Portraiture
Gold Keys represent the top 5% of entries in any given category. Silver Keys represent the top 10% of entries in any given category. Merit Awards (Honorable Mentions) are still significant; the judges recognize elements of technical skill and personal vision/voice.
WALKER ‘25 Portraiture
BRIGGS & STEPHANIE SILVERMAN ‘00
RACHEL BRIGGS & STEPHANIE SILVERMAN ‘00
‘00
Jace Walker ’25
Art Portfolio Gold Key Winner
TEACHER: STEPHANIE SILVERMAN ‘00
TEACHER: STEPHANIE SILVERMAN ‘00
Roman Guerrieri ’25
Architecure & Industrial Desgin Gold Key Winner
TEACHER: STEPHANIE SILVERMAN ‘00
SOPHIA SILVERMAN ‘28 MIXED MEDIA
TEACHER: STEPHANIE SILVERMAN ‘00
Sophia Silverman ’28
Mixed Media Gold Key Winner
Andres Ramos ’26 Photography Gold Key Winner
ANDRES RAMOS ‘26 PHOTOGRAPHY
Congratulations to our Art Award Winners
Art Portfolio:
Jace Walker ’25
Gold Key, Silver Key
Grace Yang ’25
Gold Key
Rylon O’Donnell ’25
Silver Key
Architecture & Industrial Design:
Roman Guerrieri ’25 Gold Key (3)
Jace Walker ’25
Gold Key
Richie Angiullo ’25
Silver Key
Michael Burgo ’25 Silver Key (2)
Mason Kohl ’26 Merit Award
Aidan Mahoney ’25 Merit Award
Ceramics & Glass:
Sienna Rappucci ’27
Gold Key, Silver Key (2)
Adeline Arcari ’27
Silver Key
Giancarlo Flaherty ’26
Silver Key
Ellie Kehagias ’25
Silver Key
Elisa Small ’25
Silver Key
Olivia Beatty ’27 Merit Award
Abby Im ’25 Merit Award
Emily Kim ’27 Merit Award
Alaina Thomas ’27 Merit Award
Rebecca Wang ’26 Merit Award
Selena Yang ’26 Merit Award
Design:
Gwyn Ratsep ’25
Silver Key
Jace Walker ’25
Silver Key
Ellie Jalot ’25 Merit Award
Michael Mallozzi ’26 Merit Award
Digital Art:
Valentina Ramos ’26 Gold Key, Merit Award (2)
Sophia Silverman ’28 Gold Key (2), Merit Award (3)
Sophia Silverman ’28 Gold Key, Silver Key, Merit Award
Jace Walker ’25 Gold Key (2), Merit Award
Audrey Zou ’26 Gold Key
Michael Mallozzi ’26 Silver Key
Brittany Coant ’26 Merit Award
Michaela Iacono ’27 Merit Award
Painting:
Karina Ong ’27
Gold Key, Merit Award
Jace Walker ’25
Gold Key, Silver Key (2)
Grace Yang ’25 Gold Key (3), Silver Key
Jace Walker ’25 Gold Key (2), Silver Key (2)
Maddie Benson ’26 Silver Key
Olivia Benson ’26 Silver Key
CC Kittila ’26 Silver Key
Michael Mallozzi ’26 Silver Key, Merit Award (2)
Nazir Black ’28 Merit Award
Colleen Burke ’27 Merit Award
Brittany Coant ’26 Merit Award (2)
Marlise Harris ’27 Merit Award
Michaela Iaocono ’27 Merit Award (2)
Isabelle Kim ’27 Merit Award (2)
Abby Leonardo ’26 Merit Award
Caden-Cole McKinney ’26 Merit Award
Griffin Merenda ’26 Merit Award
Claribel Ngalim ’26 Merit Award
Daniel Qi ’26 Merit Award (3)
Sophia Silverman ’28 Merit Award
Photography:
Andres Ramos ’26 Gold Key (2), Silver Key (3), Merit Award (4)
Jace Walker ’25 Gold Key, Merit Award
Megan Fiss ’26 Silver Key
Kingsley Muir ’25 Silver Key
Alice Zhang ’27 Silver Key, Merit Award (2)
Cecilia Patiño ’25 Merit Award
Sophia Silverman ’28 Merit Award
Printmaking:
Jace Walker ’25 Merit Award
Sculpture:
Elisa Small ’25
Gold Key
Jace Walker ’25 Gold Key, Silver Key
Rebecca Wang ’26 Gold Key
Sophia Silverman ’28 Silver Key
Rylon O’Donnell ’25 Merit Award
Aidan Mahoney ’25 Merit Award (2)
Archmere Students Win 36 Scholastic Writing Awards Awards and Recognition
In this year’s Scholastic Writing Awards, Archmere students earned thirty-six awards across several different categories, including: Personal Essay and Memoir, Poetry, Short Story, Writing Portfolio, Flash Fiction, Humor, and the Critical Essay. Submitted work was reviewed and recognized by a panel of creative professionals, and awarded for its outstanding merit in originality, skill, and the emergence of your personal voice and vision.
Since 1923, the Awards have recognized some of Americas most celebrated artists and writers while they were teenagers, including Tschabalala Self, Stephen King, Kay WalkingStick, Amanda Gorman, Charles White, Joyce Carol Oates, and Andy Warhol.
Awards:
Gold Key
Valentina Ramos ’26
Rebecca Wang ’26
Brianna Yang ’25
Silver Key
Michael Liu ’26
Valentina Ramos ’26
Rebecca Wang ’26
Brianna Yang ’25
Lilian Domenico ’25
Juliana Maceda ’27
CC Kittila ’26
Kendall Hanna ’25
Gavin Rovner ’25
Angela Zhang ’26
Andres Ramos ’26
Honorable Mention
Selena Yang ’26
Chloe Li ’26
Michael Liu ’26
Natalie Lucas ’26
Valentina Ramos ’26
Rebecca Wang ’26
Juliana Maceda ’27
Isabelle Kim ’27
Elisa Small ’25
Sophia Silverman ’28
Scholastic Art & Writing award winning students gathered for a celebration in the Patio on Monday, February 24th to celebrate the record number (235 combined awards) of Scholastic Art & Writing honors awarded in the 2025 competition.
Valentina Ramos ’26
Rebecca Wang ’26
Brianna Yang ’25
Michael Liu ’26
Lilian Domenico ’25
Juliana Maceda ’27
CC Kittila ’26
Kendall Hanna ’25
Gavin Rovner ’25
Angela Zhang ’26
Andres Ramos ’26
National Honors Society Induction
The National Honor Society recognizes students who have excelled in four areas: Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and Character. The Archmere chapter requires juniors and seniors to have a cumulative weighted GPA of 3.70 or higher to qualify for membership. Members are expected to serve as peer tutors, mini-roster night guides, and participate in NHS-sponsored charity programs. On April 29th, Archmere inducted the newest members from the class of 2025 and the class of 2026. This year marked the 52nd annual Honors Convocation held at Archmere Academy, first instituted in 1973 by then Headmaster Father Justin E. Diny, O. Praem. On these occasions, the Academy accords public recognition to those students who, because of their superior academic accomplishments, have been granted membership in various National Honor Societies.
Class of 2025 Members:
Ivy G. Adams
Richard D. Angiullo
Alexandra P. Beekley
Leo J. Bergez
Julia E. Bloser
John W. Bradley
Logan J. Bustard
Josephine A. Calder
Alexis Castrejon-Garcia
Jack C. Chesman
Yeuk Yu Chiu
Armando S. Clemente
Sanaa Cogmon-Robinson
Wyeth C. Cowan
Caileigh Crane
Anthony A. DeCamp
Emily A. DeSimone
Melissa J. Doig
Lilian Domenico+
Quinlan R. Donahoe
Cassidy J. Fanning
Ryan M. Finger
Mason D. Ganfield
Abby Giancristoforo+
Arden J. Godwin
Maya J. Granda
Maya S. Grande
Jillian E. Hamberger
Rita G. Hartman
Abigail M. Im
Elsie V. A. Ipapa
Joshua E. Kaplow
Kayla Keenan
Noelle C. Klinger
Julia S. Krajewski
Vivian J. Lehman
Benjamin Li+
Zimo Liu
James R. Lyons
Daniel L. Maceda
Marina Mahon
Aidan M. Mahoney
Charlie J. Malloy
Emily G. Mayo
Quinn M. McCormick
Claire A. McGonigle
Aoife M. McGurk
Bridget G. McNamara
Jack T. Melvin
Luke C. Merritt
Eva M. Messamore
Shripraba Narayanan
Seamus M. Naughter
Aza G. Nyzio
Sherylyn D. Omanya
Kasey Palma
Cullen L. Peterson
David A. Pinto
Aiden C. Pirozek
Carly M. Polsky
Kathryn E. Pyne
Gwyneth A. Ratsep
Maura A. Read
Isabella L. Romesburg
Gavin Q. Rovner
Samuel J. Ryan
Cecilia G. Sacharok
Isabella M. Sanchez
Haley G. Schleeweis
Riley Schultz
Natalie R. Skelly
Elisabeth G. Small
Helen M. Socorso+
Kathryn G. Venditti
Meredith V. V. Victoria
Jace K. Walker
Riley Walsh
Christian J. Wittmeyer
Roya Wolcott
Brianna V. Yang+
Grace Yang
+ indicates NHS Officer
2025 Inductees:
Damian M. Andrisani, II ’26
Luca C. Anerino ’26
Janiyah M. Bashir ’26
Alexandra P. Beekley ’25*
Madelyn G. Benson ’26
Olivia G. Benson ’26
Noah C. Blessington ’26
John W. Bradley ’25*
Riley Burke ’26
Giovanna Clemente ’26
Brittany E. Coant ’26
Keira Conner ’26
Joshua I. Cox ’26
Sarah K. Dahms ’26
Ryan Dam ’26
Quinlan R. Donahoe ’25*
Sarah E. Eastment ’26
Christian P. Ebeid ’26
Cassidy J. Fanning ’25*
Meredith A. Finger ’26
Megan M. Fiss ’26
Giancarlo A. Flaherty ’26
Ethan Matthieu G. Flores ’26
Aidan C. Frenck ’26
Angelina M. Garcia ’26
Kabir C. Goyal ’26
Michael J. Hagerty ’26
Henry J. Hahn ’26
Joshua R. Hanson ’26
Brinton E. Harra ’26
Kennedy G. Harrington ’26
Omar Hefnawi ’26
Kaitlyn Hickey ’26
Oliver Hohman ’26
Kayla N. Iroha ’26
Michael Jang ’26
Emily X. Juarez ’26
Danielle M. Keenan ’26
Anne-Cecile C. Kittila ’26
Noelle C. Klinger ’25*
Ciara P. Knapp ’26
Claudia Koch ’26
Julia S. Krajewski ’25*
Mason R. Layman ’26
Abigail R. Leonardo ’26
Chloe Li ’26
Michael W. Liu ’26
Darren Luo ’26
Kathleen M. Maher ’26
Aidan Mahon ’26
Adrian N. Martin ’26
Tiernan P. Matthews ’26
Quinn M. McCormick ’25*
Claire A. McGonigle ’25*
Patrick S. McGuinness ’26
Erin McLaughlin ’26
Jack T. Melvin ’25*
Griffin J. Merenda ’26
Luke P. Middleton ’26
Tsion Mideksa ’26
Colin J. Mosley ’26
Allison H. Moyer ’26
Quinn J. Naughter ’26
Paige E. Noval ’26
Brandon M. Paregian ’26
Owen Parsons ’26
Cecilia E. Patiño ’26
Samuel B. Perry ’26
Carly M. Polsky ’25*
Daniel Z. Qi ’26
Andres M. Ramos ’26
Valentina S. Ramos ’26
Ruby A. Ryan ’26
Caroline G. Scholl ’26
Riley Schultz ’25*
Mohan S. Seshadri ’26
Megan C. Shaposky ’26
Emily T. Shipley ’26
Susan D. Shipley ’26
Ella L. Taggart ’26
Caden-Cole TaylorMcKinney ’26
Zoë R. Thornton ’26
Gretchen L. Tonn ’26
Cole M. Treston ’26
Richard A. Treston ’26
Nicole Tsaganos ’26
Brayden M. Tsinaroglou ’26
Celeste Vail ’26
Rebecca Wang ’26
Lucy B. Weinig ’26
Kellyn C. Williams ’26
Lincoln K. Yalamanchili ’26
Selena Yang ’26
Angela Zhang ’26
Audrey Zou ’26
* indicates new Class of 2025 inductee
Congratulations, Class of 2025!
CLASS OF 2025
Archmere Academy welcomed 129 alumni into its ranks during Commencement ceremonies on June 1st in the Rocco A. and Mary Abessinio Performing Arts Center. The Baccalaureate Liturgy & Commencement Exercises were also live streamed for friends and family to view on the Archmere YouTube Channel. As decision days approached in the College Counseling Office, we asked seniors to list the mascot and nicknames of the college they were attending on our office graffiti board. Our Auks have traded their green and white to become Blue Hens & Blue Hose, Green Terrors, Red Devils, Yellowjackets, Scarlett Knights, and Orange. We’ll have Wildcats at Villanova, New Hampshire, Davidson, and Kentucky. And we even have a Stag and a Sagehen. The Class of 2025 is full of explorers with the confidence to set their own course. This year’s graduates will be attending colleges in twenty-three different states and the District of Columbia. Twenty-two are enrolling at schools no other Archmere graduate presently attends. And at a time when the average undergraduate student in the United States travels just over 100 miles from home to attend college, these Auks, traveling to places from Lancaster to Los Angeles, Ann Arbor to Ave Maria, Boston to Boulder, and DC to Dallas, will enroll at universities an average of 379 miles from Archmere.
The 129 members of the Class of 2025 will matriculate at sixty-seven different colleges and universities. Rewards and recognitions have come their way as well. As a group they have been rightfully and collectively recognized by colleges, universities and outside groups with over $25 million in Scholarships and Grants. Congratulations and Godspeed Class of 2025!
Class of 2025 Valedictorian is Grace Yang, and the Salutatorian, Brianna Yang. Grace will be attending Brown University, and Brianna is headed to Yale University.
2025 Medal Winners
Valedictorian Medal ............. Grace Kong Yang
Salutatorian Medal ........... Brianna Vivian Yang
The Archmere Medal .
Theology Medal
Charlie John Malloy
David A. Pinto
Science Medal ................... Ivy Grace Adams
English Medal ...............Josephine Ann Calder
Mathematics Medal .............. Grace Kong Yang
Computer Science Medal ........ Samuel James Ryan
History Medal ............... Brianna Vivian Yang
Spanish Medal ............... Logan James Bustard
French Medal .
.Lilian Domenico
Music Medal – voice Bridget Grace McNamara
Music Medal – instrument. . . . Kathryn Grace Venditti
Art Medal ..................... Jace Kilian Walker
Design Medal . .
Roman Eddington Guerrieri
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Medal ...... Luke Christian Merritt
Humanities Medal .
Helen Marie Socorso
Drama Medal ............. Bridget Grace McNamara and Meredith Vaughen Veloso Victoria
Christian Service Medal .
Campus Ministry Medal
Men’s Athletic Medal .
. Aoife Maria McGurk
David A. Pinto
. Charlie John Malloy
Women’s Athletic Medal ........Carly Morgan Polsky
Green indicates a state that 2025 graduates are attending college.
"Archmere’s ability to foster ever-growing connections is so special. As we move from our small high school into the bigger world, remember the relationships you have made here. Hold tight to them, even as you continue to meet new friends, classmates, and coworkers. They will support you through anything, because that’s the kind of person that Archmere forms."
Grace Yang ’25, Valedictorian
“But of course we would not have been able to step onto this stage without the help of what I think makes Archmere such a wonderful place: our teachers. I would like to extend a sincere thank you to Archmere’s invaluable and immensely talented faculty, for not only teaching us what a line of reasoning is but also showing us the value in a lifetime of scholarship.”
Brianna Yang ’25, Salutatorian
“Every day brought challenges—some big, some small—that pushed us to dig a little deeper. Whether it was losing a tough game, staying up all night studying for a calc test, or opening up to others during Kairos, we were constantly testing our limits, often without even realizing it. But what made those moments bearable— and even meaningful—was that we never faced them alone... Amid the challenges, we were held together by a steady web of support—a community that brought us closer together. That spark—that defining spirit of Archmere—lies in our faith as a community.”
Kathryn Pyne ’25, Senior Class President
Bob Nowaczyk, Director of Student Life, addresses attendees during Commencement exercises.
The graduating class of 2025 move their tassels from the right to the left, symbolizing the transition from student to graduate.
Global Studies
Archmere’s Global Studies Programs is guided by this Mission: to “prepare lifelong learners for every good work by building cultural competence, by fostering personal growth and professional success through travel and study. This multidisciplinary academic program provides crosscultural, experiential learning opportunities that cultivate empathetic leadership, effective communication, and a global mindset.”
Ever since the Global Studies Program officially launched in 2023 with the science trip to Belize, students and
teachers have traveled to the British Isles, India, Taiwan, Nicaragua, France, Iceland, and Puerto Rico. Additionally, outside the work students have accomplished to earn the Global Studies Diploma, Global Studies has welcomed into our community six students from Slovakia over the last three years (with the next two coming this summer) and one student from France. This program aims to take students out into the wider world and to invite that wider world into our community, as well.
The five categories all candidates must meet to reach diploma level.
3. ACT take action to expand their worldview, such as participating in Archmere Culture Night or raising funds for international relief efforts, or by hosting an exchange student
4. SHARE compose and read an essay capturing the value of earning this distinction, and then sit for an oral interview with a panel of Global Studies Program committee members
5. TRAVEL join one of Archmere’s international trips
Mia Benvignati ’25
Caileigh Crane ’25
Arden Godwin ’25
Kendall Hanna ’25
Vivian Lehman ’25
Nikita Malik ’25
Certificte
Eva Messamore ’25
Shripraba Narayanan ’25
Sherylyn Omanya ’25
Charles Ramsey ’25
Isabella Sanchez ’25
Elisabeth Small ’25
Shripraba Narayanan ’25
Kathryn Venditti ’25
Meredith Victoria ’25
Brianna Yang ’25
Grace Yang ’25
Nicaragua
November 2024 Iceland
April 2025
Students gather for a group photo on columnar basalt formations.
The Bessastaðir Church, Concencrated in 1796, is under the administration of the Office of the President of Iceland.
Thirty students travelled to Iceland during Easter break.
Twelve stuedents travelled to Granada, Nicaragua during Thanksgiving break.
Students were treated to three nights of amazing views of the Northern Lights.
Christopher Swain ’27 working on painting a mural.
Fresh fish were among a wide variety of foods available at a local market in Granada.
One of the many site visits included Guadalupe Church in Granada.
Seniors Aidan Mahoney and Jack Chesman Earn All-American Lacrosse Awards
Head Coach Pete Duncan led the Archmere lacrosse team to an 11-6 record this season, Diamond State Athletic Conference Championship for the fifth year in a row, and a quarterfinal appearance in the DIAA State Tournament. The team once again pushed themselves this year outside of the state and their conference, competing against teams in Maryland and Pennsylvania.
Archmere lacrosse not only boasted 13 All-Conference players in addition to 4 All-State players, but seniors Aidan Mahoney ’25 and Jack Chesman ’25 earned All-American honors. Aidan will be attending Villanova University this fall to major in Business, and Jack heads to the University of Southern California to study International Relations on a Pre-Law track.
Girls Track Team Wins DSAC Championship
On Wednesday, April 30th, the Track and Field Diamond State Athletic Conference Championships were held at the Robert Gore Stadium at Newark Charter High School. The Archmere girls team won their fourth consecutive conference title while the boys came in second! In addition, Caden-Cole McKinney ’26 tied the high jump record at Archmere with a jump of 6-2, and several Auks recorded Archmere AllTime performances.
All-Conference Honors were awarded to:
Caden-Cole McKinney ’26 High Jump (6-2) Tied the school record
Twelve Archmere Senior athletes plan on continuing their athletic careers at the collegiate level:
Maura Read ................. Field Hockey ...... American University
Isabella Romesburg Tumbling Presbyterian College
Lyla Bell ....................... Soccer ................ Florida Gulf Coast University
Marina Mahon ............. Soccer ................ Quinnipiac University
Danielle Higbee Golf Augusta University
Cullen Peterson ........... Rugby ................ Fairfield University
Maya Grande ............... Softball .............. Pitzer College
Carly Polsky ................. Softball .............. Rowan University
Jonathan O’Boyle ......... Baseball ............. University of Scranton
Charlie Malloy.............. Baseball ............. University of Scranton
Helen Socorso .............. XC/Track ............ University of Scranton
Riley Walsh Track Catholic University
Jack Chesman ’25 Aidan Mahoney ’25
Left to right, Marina Mahon, Helen Socorso ,Lyla Bell, Carly Poslky, Cullen Peterson, Maura Reed, Isabella Romesburg, Maya Grande, Riley Walsh, Danielle Higby. Not picured, Jonathan O’Boyle and Charlie Malloy.
Golf Team Wins State Championship
On May 27th, Archmere earned its second straight DIAA Golf State Championship in a one-round contest. Held at St. Anne’s Golf Links in Middletown, the second day of competition was canceled due to torrential rain. Following the DIAA manual, the tournament was declared official after 18 holes, and Archmere was declared the winner of a second consecutive team championship, on the strength of their outstanding first day golf performances. Hannah Webb ’27 earned the girls individual crown with a 1-overpar 71.
This year’s DIAA State Championship field featured 15 schools with four-to-six golfers entered, making each of those eligible for the team championship. On day one in the Girls’ Individual Championship (par 70, 5,410 yards), Hannah Webb ’27 jumped out in front with a round of 71. She mixed three birdies, two bogeys, and a double bogey to get to her magic number.
Danielle Higbee ’25 (73) and Meredith Finger ’26 (74) finished right behind her. Henry Nowak ’26 added a 77 to give Archmere a team score of 295, 12 strokes ahead of runner-up Salesianum (307).
Seamus Naughter ’25 and Cullen Peterson ’25
Win Rugby Delaware Scholarship
Seamus Naughter ’25 and Cullen Peterson ’25 were cowinners of the Rugby Delaware scholarship this year. Rugby Delaware awards annual scholarships to graduating high school seniors who will be joining the rugby program at their college or university of choice.
Along with providing a completed scholarship application form, each applicant was required to submit at least two letters of recommendation and a personal statement on his/ her current involvement in rugby and how this scholarship will enable the applicant to achieve his/her future goals. Seamus is heading off to Syracuse University this fall to study Sports Analytics, while Cullen heads to Fairfield University to study Politics.
Rugby Wins Mark Dombroski Cup and the Delaware 7’s State Title
On Thursday evening, May 15th, the Archmere Rugby team once again took on Salesianum on the Fusco Fields for the Rugby Delaware State Championship Cup. The match was named the Mark Dombroski Cup, in honor of Mark Dombroski, a 2017 Archmere graduate and rugby player who lost his life in March 2018 while at a rugby competition with St. Joseph’s University in Bermuda.
In its 13th year as an Archmere sport, the team has had much success, and this year was no different. The team won the Championship on with a score of 22-0, bringing the Mark Dombroski Cup back home to Archmere.
The 2025 Archmere Academy Golf Team.
Seamus Naughter, left, and Cullen Peterson, right, with coach John Bellace, center.
The Archmere rugby team lines up for a group photo following their championship win.
Alumni Spotlight
Generational Currents
By Fred Voelker, Marketing & Communications Manager
After Gregory Tomb ’96 graduated from Archmere, he attended Hartwick College as a psychology major with a minor in art. He had a love of art that dated back to his Archmere days, where he studied under the guidance of Terry Newitt. He eventually shifted his track, graduating from college with a major in art, focusing in sculpture and glass blowing. Following college and looking for a career, Greg pursued adventure sports and was a raft guide and a ski instructor. Even though he enjoyed the adventurous lifestyle, he found himself continually returning to art - art in the form of glass. Greg got a job at Simon Pearce, a glassblowing factory. His inexperience in the field showed, but his employer took him under their wing and taught him to the basics. Greg progressed from apprentice to journeyman, and then to team leader. After a few years, Greg moved to California, where he worked with established glass artists to further hone his skills. Greg eventually took a teaching job at the Bay Area Glass Institute in San Jose, California. He also guided zipline and sea kayaking tours throughout the Redwood Forest and Santa Cruz in addition to teaching.
When Greg decided to become a full-time glassblower, he began doing art shows. He traveled to showcase his art throughout the country with events in Florida, Cape Cod, Los Angeles, New York, and Philadelphia. Greg spoke with people in the various cities he visited, and they often expressed an interest and curiosity in glassblowing. A business model was born. Greg opened a mobile shop in Scottsdale, Arizona and eventually expanded with a second location in North Creek, New York. He was hired by a town in the Adirondack Mountains as their artist in residence, converting a 100-year-old barn into a studio, where he provided experiences to summer campers, tourists, and local schools.
Cassius Hearne ’26 with Gregory Tomb’96 after creating a piece of the installation for the Rocco A. and Mary Abessino Perfoorming Arts Center.
He named his new venture The Adirondak Glassblowing Studio. When Greg wasn’t providing experiences or demonstrations, he was creating work to sell at his own events. He partnered with organizations such as Make-AWish and The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, where he would set up public workshops to teach glassblowing and donate a portion of his proceeds to these organizations.
In 2024, Greg happened to see a post on one of Archmere’s social media pages announcing the “Let’s Renovate the House” campaign. Through a simple comment on the post, a conversation began about creating a special glass piece for the performing arts center. Greg returned to campus for the first time since Terry Newitt invited him to speak as Alumni Artist of the Year ten years prior. He met with John Jordan ’80 and Michael Marinelli Ed.D ’76 to discuss both the history and future of Archmere. During this conversation, Greg found himself looking out of a Patio window overlooking the Delaware River. He thought of the water - how it flows and how that relates to life. Once one gets into the flow, anyone, in almost any profession and at any point in their life, can find the feeling of being engaged fully in the moment. This is certainly true for students of Archmere, as the school is a place that can inspire and help them find what they’re truly passionate about. The themes of history, water, and currents swirled together and inspired the concept of “Generational Currents”.
The new installation was to consist of about forty pieces of glass hanging in the main lobby of the newly renovated Rocco A. and Mary Abessinio Performing Arts Center. Greg toured the space and sketched a plan including necessary supports, a color palette for the glass, and a rough mockup of the design. He set up shop in a local studio space and began creating glass pieces and fabricating framework and supports. During these planning phases, there was a question posed as to how the installation could be connected to students and the future of Archmere. Greg’s answer was simple - to bring his mobile glassblowing studio to Archmere so current students could be directly involved in the piece. He set up his equipment and tools in front of the Manor under a tent for approximately three weeks in February of 2025. During this time, Greg led students to not only learn about glassblowing, but to create their own pieces of blown glass that were eventually included in the installation. Twenty-four students signed up to participate in the project, each creating their own unique piece. In getting students involved, Greg had the opportunity to connect and speak to students about their passions and goals. Activating his skills in mentoring and teaching, Greg used analogies to explain the steps in a fun way, eliminating everyone’s apprehension about working
around the intense heat and delicacy of the process. Additionally, the organic nature of the project took away the fear anyone had of making mistakes. There were no mistakes; each piece was unique and perfect. After each student had completed their portion of the project, the size of the installation nearly doubled from the original concept. With the addition of the students’ work, the color palette also expanded, creating a whimsical juxtaposition of colored glass against a black ceiling.
Creating "Generational Currents" was a joy and something that Greg never thought would be part of his story. Returning to Archmere, he was able to connect with fellow alumni to discuss how the school has evolved and continues to evolve. Additionally, Greg was able to share his experience and expertise with current students. Maybe, one day, these young artists will return to Archmere as Greg has done. Perhaps they will walk together with their children under the installation that they contributed to, or, like Greg Tomb, they’ll return to share their talents and create an impact on students and the school for generations to come.
Rylon O’Donnell ’25 with Gregory Tomb ’96 rounding a piece of glass prior to expanding it into the shape of a plate.
Alumni News
1955
1979
1995
George Cunningham ’55 spent five weeks in Spain. He attended la Escuela de Idiomas Nerja for four weeks, and spent the remainder of his time in Madrid visiting museums and friends.
2009
2013
Bill Green ’79 became director of MIT’s Energy Initiative in April in 2024. For his view on how the research community & industry can speed the energy transition, listen to his podcast “How to Speed up the Energy Transition” at www.energy.mit.edu
Greg Locklear ’95 was not displaced by the LA wildfires, but he felt compelled to help in some way. He rallied many others within the Writer’s Guild of America West community and organized a series of lunch-packing sessions out of his home. Hundreds of lunch kits were distributed to firefighters, volunteers, and workers at relief organizations like the LA Care Center and the Pasadena Humane Society.
2008
Robert Hagan, Jr. ’08 and his wife Brittany celebrated the baptism of their son Robert “Tripp” Hagan, III on February 23, 2025. Tripp was baptized by Rev. Joseph McLaughlin, O.Praem. at Sts. Peter & Paul in West Chester, PA.
2017
Tom Donovan ’09 and his wife Rebecca welcomed their first child on February 17, 2025 - Abigail Ann Donovan. Abby hopes to become a future third-generation Auk!
Patrick Reilly ’13 debuted his first novel entitled Ice’s End. The sci-fi thriller will be published by 12 Willows Press under his pen name P. Finian Reilly in June 2025 and is available to order at https://12willowspress.com/ices-end
Conor McAvinue ’17 is enrolled in the Graduate Performance Diploma program at the Peabody Institute of Johns Hopkins University debuted over the weekend of January 23-26 as a substitute/alternate in the viola section of the Philadelphia Orchestra in a three-program run of concerts of Tchaikovsky’s "Pathétique" Symphony.
2018
Giavanna Mariano ’18 can be seen here living out her dream of working as a professional actor combatant at the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire hosted at Mount Hope Estate. During the summer she can be found performing a variety of stunt and combat shows on the grounds of the faire as well as entertaining guests as a roaming
interactive character. In this picture she is portraying the lovable puddle drainer Abigail Sluice moments after winning a fight in the Tournament of Arms. She had the opportunity to write and direct Mount Hope’s Holiday Dinner Theatre in the Mansion, for which she adapted the Nutcracker fairytale into a stage show.
2020
Gabrielle Penna ’20 has been awarded the one and only seat reserved for Notre Dame Law students at ParisPanthéon-Assas University. She is thrilled to attend ParisPanthéon-Assas University, which is widely considered the oldest and best-ranked law school in France. Gabrielle will be enrolled as an LL.M student, and will earn her Master of Laws in World Arbitration and Dispute Settlement.
2021
Michael Acierno ’21 was selected for the Michael Fitzsimmons Wine Executive Award to attend the UC Davis Wine Executive Program. The UC Davis Wine Executive Program is uniquely designed to teach the fundamentals of winemaking and management skills necessary to be profitable in today’s challenging and dynamic wine industry. More than 1,000 wine industry executives have attended this unique and informative program over the past twenty plus years. Participants develop relationships with other key wine industry leaders that continue long after the program ends.
Ava Scarpaci ’21 received the designation of First Honor Graduate, the highest academic distinction at the University of Georgia. Jere Morehead, President of UGA, honored Ava at a President’s Reception. In 2023, Ava traveled to Panama where she was part of a medical outreach trip to set up free health clinics in the area. She will graduate with a major in Biomedical Physiology and plans to pursue a career as a Physician Assistant.
2024
Noah Marino ’24, a first-year Cadet at the United States Air Force Academy, ran into third-year Cadet at the United States Coast Guard Academy, Pauline Hartman ’22, at the 33rd Annual Delaware Valley All Service Academies’ Ball held in Philadelphia this past December. Before Archmere, both attended St. Thomas the Apostle School.
Ben Revak ’16 and Chip Walsh ’82 met on the lacrosse field, reffing the Archbishop Carroll vs. Archbishop Ryan HS Varsity Lacrosse game.
Friends from the Class of 1991 reunited in West Jefferson, North Carolina to celebrate the wedding of David Mahoney ’91 to his new wife Lisa. Pictured left to right: Reed Bohner ’91, E.J. Dealy ’91, Mike Dogum ’91, David Mahoney ’91, Marc Albero ’91, Damian Andrisani ’91, Southard Jones ’91, and Chris Rappucci ’91.
On September 14, 2024, thirteen Archmere alumni gathered in Portsmouth, New Hampshire to celebrate the wedding of Samantha Voge ’13. Pictured left to right: Dennis Lynch ’82, David Voge ’78, Rich Beck ’82, Bob Voge ’82 (father of the bride), Tony Latini ’82, Elena Latini ’14, Deanna Latini ’17, Joey Voge ’15, Delaney Leonard ’14, Meaghan Fitts ’13, Sam Voge ’13, Claire McDermott ’13, and Kathlyn Carney ’13.
Kieran Udovich ’23, Chris Albero ’23, Danny Kupiec ’23, and Nate Morda ’23 visited campus in the fall and stopped for a photo with Father McLaughlin.
Drew Letts ’88, Joe Rafter ’88, Greg Reed ’88, and Tom Swoyer ’88 recently held a “double nickels celebration” in Miami to honor their 55th birthday this year. Many laughs were shared along with a few cigars and some late evenings! They plan to make this trip an annual event and hope more 88ers will join them in the future.
Endowment Spotlight: Jeffrey D. Finocchiaro ’92
The Power of the Matching Gift
Jeff Finocchiaro ’92 with his father David Finocchiaro ’66 at the Eagles Divisional Playoff game in Philadelphia, January 2023.
Did you know you can double—or even triple—the impact of your charitable donation without any extra cost to you? Many companies offer matching gift programs that will match the donations their employees make to eligible nonprofit organizations, like Archmere. This simple, yet powerful, opportunity enables donors to stretch their Archmere contributions further, making a profound difference in the lives of our students.
Alumnus Jeff Finocchiaro ’92 took advantage of his company’s matching gift program on Giving Day this past December to establish a new endowed scholarship at Archmere in his family’s name. USAA offered a one-day double match opportunity which essentially tripled his gift. Jeff’s scholarship will provide vital financial aid to deserving students, ensuring they can access an exceptional Archmere education.
“This matching gift opportunity allowed me to make a larger impact than I would have previously thought possible,” Jeff shared. “Knowing my contribution would be increased substantially gave me the nudge to make my gift. Archmere has been an important part of my life, as well as my dad’s and younger sister’s, and I really wanted to give back to the school.
This was the catalyst to make it happen.”
Matching gift funding not only amplifies generosity but also inspires others to give, knowing their support can be multiplied. For many individuals, this multiplier can turn what might feel like a modest gift into a transformative one. Imagine your $100 donation instantly becoming $200 or $300, all because of your company’s matching gift program!
The process is simple: after you make a donation, check with your employer to see if they participate in a matching gift program. Often, all it takes is completing a short online form and submitting proof of your contribution.
Don’t miss this chance to make an even greater difference. Matching gifts can have a ripple effect, helping Archmere create lasting change—one gift, and one match, at a time.
Jeff Finocchiaro is a graduate of the Class of 1992 and was the president of his senior class. His father David (’66) and sister Julie (’98) are also alumni. Following graduation, Jeff earned a Bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Johns Hopkins and a Master’s in Applied Math from the University of Delaware.
With over 27 years in the financial services industry, Jeff currently is the executive leading USAAs’ Fraud Model and Management Data Science team, overseeing the development and implementation of Al models for fraud prevention. Jeff is recognized as a fraud expert and serves on multiple fraud advisory boards and is frequently called upon to speak on panels and at conferences.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jeff is also a classically trained pianist and enjoys traveling, martial arts, science fiction, politics and exercise. He is an avid contributor on LinkedIn where he writes about artificial intelligence, sports analytics and topics related to science and fraud. Jeff currently resides in Newark, Delaware.
For more information about matching gifts or to discuss establishing your own named scholarship endowment fund, contact
Katherine Ball-Weir, Director of Institutional Advancement 302-798-6632, ext. 857 kballweir@archmereacademy.com.
To learn whether your company offers gift matching, contact your Human Resources department.
Larry Osborne In Memoriam
Remembering Marcy Aitken
By John Jordan ’80, Director of Development and Constituent Relations
The Archmere morning prayer ends the same way each day over the announcements with the exhortation: “Go and make it a great day.” The opening mantra was coined by Mrs. Marcy Aitken decades ago, and its message is still the same today – as students and teachers, we can create each day with enthusiasm and kindness. Certainly, Marcy lived that belief all her life, a conviction that each of us matters and can make the place better.
Mr. A. Michael Kendig ’58
September 21, 2023
Mrs. Martha Lontz
February 11, 2024
Wife of John Lontz ’57
Mother of Jennifer Lontz ’87
Paternal grandmother of Abigail Lontz ’19
Mr. J. Louis Bachofer ’49
May 29, 2024
Mr. Nicholas D. Arcese ’51
June 20, 2024
Mrs. Caroline V. Fedena
September 26, 2024
Mother of Karen Dedena Perkins ’79 and Steven Fedena ’90 (did not graduate)
Aunt of Jessica M. Marchlik ’97
Mrs. Ann McColgan
October 27, 2024
Mother of Michael ’73 and Daniel ’85 McColgan
Paternal grandmother of Caroline ’18 and Allison ’21 McColgan
Dr. Joseph Mawhinney ’58
November 14, 2024
Brother of Dr. James Mawhinney ’66
With Mrs. Marcella (Marcy) Aitken’s passing this past October, Archmere lost an icon. Devoted wife and mother, energetic teacher and coach, faithful friend and counselor, Marcy was always there with a smile and a word of encouragement. Her impact on the school culture is hard to measure; her influence in the areas of athletics, academic curriculum, drug and alcohol counseling, and ever-present school spirit continues to impact the Archmere experience 50 years after she arrived on campus in 1975.
Marcy attended Immaculata College, where she played basketball, softball, hockey, and served as co-captain of the Athletic Association. Marcy returned to her alma mater, Notre Dame, to direct the physical education department prior to her arrival in Claymont. Marcy arrived on campus in the fall of 1975 with the start of co-education. 50 girls (1 senior, 4 juniors, 15 sophomores, 25 freshmen) joined the Auk community and transformed the school. A young mother of eight, Marcy was tasked with establishing a girls’ athletic program as well as creating a physical education
Mr. Ronald C. Nagle
November 15, 2024
Father of Brian ’93 and Gretchen ’95 Nagle
Paternal grandfather of Jackson ’22 and Charles ’23 Nagle
Mrs. Gloria L Ignar
November 21, 2024
Mother of Carolyn Ignar Torbert ’84
Maternal grandmother of Michael ’04 and Stephen ’06 Hall
Mrs. Sally G. Petrillo
November 26, 2024
Mother of Michael C. Petrillo ’81
Mr. Daniel J. Collins
December 2, 2024
Archmere’s Band Director and Moderator of Mock Trial (2008-2010)
Mrs. Ruth A. Stovicek
December 9, 2024
Wife of the late Kenneth J. Stovicek ’49
Paternal grandmother of Emma Stovicek ’17
Mrs. Lindsay Kellogg Helms ’95
December 10, 2024
Mr. Richard J. Kearney ’72
December 14, 2024
Mr. I. Edmund Stevenson
December 17, 2024
Father of David ’80 and Richard ’86 Stevenson
Mrs. Rosemary P. Farley
December 21, 2024
Mother of J. Brendan Farley ’95
Ms. Gina Marie Massimo
December 25, 2024
Daughter of Anthony ’77 and Mary Elizabeth (Patrone) ’78 Massimo
Mr. Paul F.X. Lovell ’57
December 26, 2024
Father of Judith Lovell Thompson ’88
Mrs. Frances L Donnelly
December 27, 2024
Mother of Michael ’91, Christopher ’95, Brian ’00, and Kevin ’02 Donnelly
President of Archmere’s Mothers Guild (1994-1995)
Dr. Emilio M. Valdes, Jr.
January 3, 2025
Father of Emilio M. III ’83 and Carlos ’84 Valdes
Mr. John D. Daniello ’51
January 6, 2025
Mrs. Beatrice Bonvetti
January 9, 2025
Paternal grandmother of Robert W. Bonvetti ’98
Marcy Aitken, front row center, developed and coached Archmere’s first girls’ softball team.
curriculum for girls and boys. Marcy taught and coached physical education and ran the nascent girls’ athletic programs for six years before developing Archmere’s health curriculum and establishing a drug and alcohol counseling program in 1981. Her vision, hard work, and deep compassion defined the Archmere mission as the school developed in the 70’s and 80’s.
As a coach, Marcy was loud and energetic. Her players loved her. Demonstrative and always vocal, Coach Aitken was one of a kind. The 1978 Patio yearbook paid tribute to her uniqueness. “Best remembered of the Aitken clan may be the 200 lb. Great Pyrenees, Tuffy, whom Mrs. Aitken brought to all the cheerleading and basketball practices.”
Mary Ann O’Brien Slowik ’79 played volleyball, basketball, and softball on those initial girls’ teams, forging a lifelong bond with Coach Aitken. “She was more than a coach,” O’Brien Slowik said. “She was a mentor, she was a mom. She was a tough coach, but fair. She was funny, and she was a great friend.” Her devotion to the students was legendary. Upon her retirement in 2012, after 37 faithful years of service, Marcy said simply, “My favorite part has been and always will be the KIDS.”
Celebrating 40 years of coeducation in April 2016, Marcy was honored for her lifelong commitment to the school. In her honor, the original gym built in 1938 and located in the Moglia Field House was renamed in her honor, “The Marcy Aitken Gymnasium.” Recognizing the humble beginnings, Marcy reflected at the time: “We didn’t win
Mr. Richard Tanzilli
January 15, 2025
Maternal grandfather of Amanda ’22, Christopher 23, Cole ’26, and Richard ’26 Treston
Mr. James R. Nelson
January 17, 2025
Father of Jeffrey ’86 and Jenniferf ’87 Nelson
Mr. Harry C Jester ’48
January 20, 2025
Mrs. Margaret McGinnity
January 26, 2025
Maternal grandmother of Alana ’15 and Conor ’21 Bradley
Mrs. Bridget K. Wilson
January 27, 2025
Mother of Joshua M. Alcorn ’99, former Archmere English Teacher (2004-2006)
Mrs. Barbara S. Squire
February 1, 2025
Maternal grandmother of Robert T. Hagan, Jr. ’08
Mr. Chauncey D. Scarbrough, Jr.
February 3, 2025
Father of Paul H. ’79, Carl W. ’81, and Eric T. ’82 Scarbrough
many games, but the girls didn’t really care. They played their hearts out… I just think I was lucky to be a part of all of that. The girls’ sports teams today are wonderful. If we were part of that [legacy] and laid the foundation, then we’re blessed.”
Marcy’s family and friends gathered on October 28, 2024, for her funeral Mass and to recognize and celebrate her life. The youngest Aitken, Margaret ’87, captured her mom’s spirit in her eulogy. “Our mother had a big, full, beautiful life. She married the love of her life – a quiet soul who worshipped the ground she walked on – God blessed her with eight kids, 16 grandkids, and 3 great grandkids, all of whom have pieces of her embedded in us. She loved to teach and coach and help people, and she found Archmere, which literally allowed her to do all three, and gave her a home away from home for nearly 40 years.”
That home is here, Marcy’s spirit and humor and energy, and kindness are its touchstones. The school’s mission continues to be defined by Marcy Aitken, devoted in service and always ready to “go and make it a great day.”
Dr. Stanley J. Czerwinski
February 4, 2025
Father of Brenda V. Czerwinski ’93
Mr. Nicholas J. Cekine ’73
February 8, 2025
Uncle of Douglas J. Morrris ’03
Mrs. Joan R. Berl
February 20, 2025
Wife of the late Richard E. Berl, Sr. ’49
Mother of Richard E. Jr ’72 and Kenneth R. ’82 Berl
Abbot Jerome G. Tremel, O. Praem.
March 2, 2025
Administrator of Daylesford Abbey and Chair of Archmere’s Board of Trustees, January 1995 to January 1997
Mrs. Teresa E. Durkin
March 6, 2025
Mother of James W. ’72, William J. ’80, Kevin M. 87 and Teresa M. ’93 Durkin
Dr. John H. Trudeau ’63
March 11, 2025
“The Lord
has truly been raised and has appeared to Simon” (Luke 24:34)
Archmere Yearbook photo captioned:
Mr. Johnson and Mrs. Aitken imbue school spirit into every student at the school assemblies as theymake sure everyone makes their day great.
Mrs, Frances J. Fizzano
March 16, 2025
Wife of Guy T. Fizzano ’64
Mother of Stephen (Rocky) ’87 and Robyn (Riemer) ’90 Fizzano
Maternal grandmother of Katelyn Callahan ’18 and Lauren Tillett ’22
Mr. Anthony R. Emmi
March 17, 2025
Father of Christopher A. Emmi ’82
Mr. Lawrence J. Ferreri
March 28, 2025
Father of Lawrence J. ’73, William ’74, Gregory ’76 and Jeanne Marie (Powell) ’92 Ferreri
Mr. Dennis J. McNicholl III
April 1, 2025
Father of Erin ’92, Bridget ’94, and Megan’98 McNichol
Uncle of Kellie-Ann McNichol Davis ’90
Mr. Peter M. Bruno
April 27, 2025
Father of Dr. Christopher P. Bruno ’96
Mrs. Marilyn L. Fungaroli
May 7, 2025
Mother of Joanne M. Fungaroli ’88
3600 Philadelphia Pike Claymont, DE 19703
www.ArchmereAcademy.com
Archmere Academy Receives Reaccreditation
Archmere Academy is pleased to announced that the school was approved for reaccreditation by Middle States Association Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools (MSA-CESS).
In the fall of 1940, the Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools accredited Archmere for the first time. This January marked the 85th anniversary of Archmere’s partnership with MSA. In 7-year cycles, Archmere formally renews its commitment to this integral process of goal-setting, strategic planning, surveying our constituents, and reevaluating our approaches, facilities, finances, governance structure, etc., all within the “Excellence by Design” framework laid out by Middle States.
From November 10-13, Archmere hosted three visionary educators who served on our Middle States Visiting Team. Following that visit, the educators shared some preliminary findings in an oral report. Head of School Michael A. Marinelli, Ed.D. ’76 shared pieces of that report with the Archmere community, stating that, “Perhaps the most moving part of the oral report was when Ms. Kelly spoke to the teacher-student relationship at Archmere. She shared, ’Students spoke with gratitude about their teachers. More so than I have ever seen in a school. They so appreciate you, not just as teachers, but as human beings. Sometimes when you live in a place like this (Archmere), it just is what is and you actually don’t know that it’s remarkable, and it IS remarkable. The mission pervades the school.’”
Additionally, in a letter to the Archmere community, Dr. Marinelli added, “Archmere voluntarily participates in the Middle States Accreditation process to help foster positive development and growth within the school. Just as we encourage students to approach their studies with a growth mindset, we, too, must function with future objectives and improvements in mind. As educators, it’s always valuable to get a fresh perspective via these “collegial evaluators” from Middle States, and we are grateful for the time, energy, and expertise that Dr. Daniel Stabile, Moira Kelly, J.D., and Dr. John Cooke generously shared with Archmere. Our community is better for it.”
Michael Marinelli Ed.D.’76, Dr. Daniel Stablile, Moira Kelly, J.D., Dr. John Cooke, and Katie Thiel, Principal during the Middle States Asscociation visit in November 2024.
