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Volu m e 6 6 , Issu e 2
Ju ne 5 , 2 0 1 7
A Student Publication of the Belmont Hill School
THE END OF AN ERA Dr. Wachtmeister Retires After Thirty Years At Belmont Hill
By Charlie Donahue ‘19 and Charlie Booth ‘19 Panel Staff It is with a heavy heart that at the conclusion of this school year we say goodbye to a staple of the Science Department for over three decades, Dr. Wachtmeister. When Doc joined the faculty in 1987, Reagan was president, gas cost 89 cents per gallon, and biology was still taught on blackboards. Despite this, Doc has changed very little and has been a constant presence on campus who has guided generations of boys in the same thoughtful, intuitive, and caring manner. In preparation for his campus visit on March 5, 1987 for an interview, a colleague in Virginia sent Headmaster Wadsworth a letter of recommendation which read, “He has always been well liked and respected by his students, and has a reputation of really knowing the material. Probably his greatest strength is his love of teaching. He really cares about his students and works hard to help them achieve success.” Twice his stuPhoto (left) by Johhn Gillooly and (right) from Harvard Business School dent, I can confirm that this holds true today, maybe even more so than it did then. With every class it is more and more evident that he loves teaching. Beloved colleague Mr. ity and work ethic. If there is one thing I “on the farm.” According to Mr. Trautz, the material. As he explained to us: Goodband called Doc a “scholar of teach- know for certain: the Science Department “Doc is a master story teller...On one par“One thing I love about teaching is ing,” which in my opinion sums up what will not be the same next year without ticular day I visited [his class], he started it’s like being an actor. You get to act out makes him so good at it. Despite knowing its Charles Darwin lookalike at the helm. by telling some interesting stories to the different things, or use stories or metaphors the material like the back of his hand and As many people know, Doc boys about cattle reproduction, castration to help kids remember the material. We all practically being able to recite the textbook, grew up on a beef-cattle farm in Fauquier of bulls, and his beloved bull John Henry. need positive reinforcement and when I do Doc arrives at school every morning before County, Virginia. His dad purchased the This somehow segued into getting ‘the talk’ I just ask the class a question knowing that 5:30 to brush up on the day’s lesson. This farm in the 1940s and it is where Doc will from his dad back in the day on the farm.” someone will have the answer. When they desire for improvement and perfection even retire. Many of the stories that he tells as Doc often uses these sto- do it makes me feel good about what I do.” after thirty years speaks to his personal- part of his lessons come from his childhood ries to help his students understand continued on Page 2
Back to Back to Back: Lacrosse Wins 3rd Consecutive ISL Title Tribute to the Artists By Brian Antonelli ‘18 Staff Writer
By Austin Kwoun ‘18 Panel Staff
On a warm and clear-skied Friday night, the entire season hung in the balance for the varsity lacrosse team. After a key victory against Nobles, the team faced a dangerous Rivers team who arrived to Danehy Park with a world class goalie and a potent offense. However, the boys from the Hill refused to back down. After Belmont Hill scored the first goal of the game, Rivers answered with two quick ones before Christian O’Neill, as he has done all season, tucked one past the Rivers goalie to tie the game at 2-2. goal to make it 13-6. Rivers would never navy blue uniforms and trot out onto their Belmont Hill took control as they recover as Belmont Hill finished off the beloved home field. The game started out went into the half up 10-3. At that point, game with a 15-7 victory. The win was a with everything going Middlesex’s way. Belthe boys in white had confidence and there real statement in the league, as Rivers had mont Hill could not buy a goal until once was no turning back. As Rivers tried to claw recently beaten St. Sebastian’s, who Bel- again Christian O’Neill got Belmont Hill on back into the game with a goal to make it mont Hill had fallen to earlier in the season. the board. After that, it was all Belmont Hill. 12-6 midway through the third quarter, Another notable game of the season Stellar defense and a very productive offense senior long pole Zach Shpilner plunged was against Middlesex, which would be led the team past Middlesex and into the a dagger into the heart of Rivers with a the last time the seniors would put on their continued on Page 5
Look Inside The Panel
Sports 5 4-Peat: Track & Field Wins 4th NEPSTA Title
Special 6-7, 12 Prize Day & Matriculation Lists
As per tradition, The Panel presents the official 2017 Prize Day and Class of 2017 Matriculation Lists.
News 4 Class of 2017 Leaves Enduring Legacy
An endearing look back at the accomplishments and memories that defined the Class of 2017.
The team also captured the ISTA title, breaking a 6-year dry spell.
Sports 8 Athlete of the Issue: Evan Ricci ‘17 “While most of the athletes covered in Athlete of the Issue have spent many years perfecting their craft, Evan Ricci ‘17 started running the hurdles less than two years ago...”
Where do the renowned artists of Belmont Hill’s senior class go after they’ve passed on? Rumor has it, there’s a promised land for the legends of BH theater, visual art, and music, a Valhalla of hearty prose, sculpture and song. In this special haven, the orchestra’s Vice President and longest tenured member Andrew Kaneb determinedly pulls the bow across the strings of his violin in the final bars of the Violin Fantasy for Orchestra and Chorus and Piano (may it Rest In Peace, until next year); his aggressive tremolo comes under the watchful eye of the piece’s conductor and composer Armin Thomas. President Armin never had a chance to conduct his finest composition as a Belmont Hill student, but the “stunt piece” is a smash hit in Senior Haven. Horns blare continued on Page 10
Arts 11 Sister Act Impresses The third annual Senior Talent Show impressed faculty and students alike.
Belmont Hill NEWS
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In case you missed it...
Th e Pan el
Dr. Daley Visits as Sherman Series Lecturer - (May 2)
Jeremy Rogalski Speaks at Chapel - (May 16)
Rwandan Genocide Survivor Comes to Campus - (May 18)
Mrs. David Honored at Women’s Table - (May 22)
Students Awarded in Woodworking Contest - (May 23)
Varsity Football Receives their Rings - (May 24)
Student Art Show Opens in Robsham - (May 25)
Dr. George Q. Daley, Dean of HMS, talked to students about exploring new opportunities in a time of change.
Jeremy Rogalski, a statician for the Bruins, illustrated how math and technology guides his hockey research and analysis.
Chantal Kayitesi spoke about her survival story and involvement in survivor’s organizations to students on campus.
The Women’s Table honored Mrs. David for her work on the Turkey Drive with the “Connecting Neighbor to Neighbor” Award.
6 Students received awards from the NE Student Woodworking Design Competition. Belmont Hill also won “Program of the Year.”
Members of the Varsity Football Team receives rings after winning the ISL and New England Championship in the Fall.
A student art show featured the work of students from various classes from Conceptual Physics to Advanced Ceramics.
Returning to his VA Farm, Doc Bids Farewell to Belmont Continued from Front Page wanted to continue doing research or go into for him, saying, “In the end, I think it was Because of the bet he took on a young and Doc’s own education influenced him teaching. He ended up finding a job teaching two things. First, Dr. Wachtmeister clearly timid Andrew Hack, Hack has gone on to tremendously which is reflected in the way science at the Augusta Military Academy in loved biology and loved teaching biology. I win international awards for his PhD dishe teaches. He attended Salisbury School, Fort Defiance, Virginia, where he stayed think everyone who ever spent any time in sertation, founded a biotech company out an all boys boarding school in Connecticut. for two years. Once he had finished his his classroom knew that immediately, and of medical school, and is now the CFO of His dissection of a fetal pig during his tenth graduate degree work at William and Mary, second, and maybe more importantly, he a company pioneering in biotechnologies grade year there fostered his lifelong love he was hired to teach biology at Tidewater was willing to bet on me. Two seemingly like CRISPR which aim to change people’s of biology. He vividly remembers his biol- Community College in Virginia Beach. Doc simple things, but such a powerful impact.” DNA. Without Doc, hundreds of stories ogy teacher under whom he did the dissec- spent fifteen years at Tidewater teaching like this literally would never be possible. tion. This teacher had Doc make a number science courses in Biology and Chemistry “I can say without a moment of As Doc transitions into his well deof drawings to remember the parts of the and working as an administrative dean. hesitation, or an ounce of reser- served retirement “down on the farm,” there pig, something he still does today with his He vividly remembers his time there. He certainly things he will miss about Belvation, that no teacher, professor, are AP Bio class. It was his high school biology recalls, “During that time I got my doctorate mont Hill; the main two being his students or clinician has had as big an and the other his science department colclass which encouraged him to further pur- from Vanderbilt in higher education and sue bio in college at Virginia Military administration. I was also a dean at the impact on my trajectory in life as leagues. As Dr. Melvoin remarked, “Hans Institute (VMI). There he had a community college and being trained Dr. Wachtmeister” - Dr. Hack is a man of great passion, of strong beliefs, number of teachers who influto be a higher level administrator. As and of clear direction.” For fifty years Doc’s enced his own desire to teach, soon as I got my doctorate I said ‘I’m Hundreds of students, myself included, can calling as a teacher and his passion for biolincluding Dr. Carroll, Colonel not doing this anymore.’ I wanted to attest to the exact same thing. When I sat ogy have diverted time from his other great Reeves, Colonel Pickerell, and get back into teaching full time.” His down with him a few weeks back, Doc said, love, the farm. For the first time in many Dr. Heisey. What Doc rememdesire to return to teaching brought “What really makes me feel good, more than years he will have an opportunity to focus bers most about “Doc Carroll” him to Cape Henry Collegiate School, anything else, is every year boys in 9th grade solely on one endeavor: spending time with is that he had one arm and a private school in Virginia kids sign up for AP bio and then we sit down his cows. In reflecting on the state in which chewed tobacco in class, Beach. Despite wanting to and go through the list. Sometimes an advi- he leaves the Science Department, Doc says, often missing his spitteach classes again, Doc sor or teacher then recommends that a stu- “If you talk to any teacher, they’ll say their toon and littering the ended up becoming the dent who signed up not take the course. I department is the best but I really do feel our floor. Doc Carroll Headmaster. After a one convince them otherwise, and I encourage science department is a very special group told stories to help year headship, he was the boy to stick with the decision anyway. of people. We are close knit and everyday kids learn the mahired by Belmont Hill Usually, he ends up getting excited, and re- we laugh and laugh and laugh. Most of that terial, something to teach Biology and ally doing well, and performing well on the is due to Trautz who is probably the funniDoc Wacht does Science 1, which he has AP and the subject test, even when someone est guy I ever met. My favorite thing is that to this day. Doc been doing ever since. said he couldn’t do it a year ago. In 10th there are no ‘egos’ in this department, none! says, “Doc [CarFor thirty years That makes it so easy to work with people. roll] taught by tellnow, Doc has been “From physics all the way down From Physics all the way down through ing stories, which changing the lives of the little guys we are in great shape through teaching the little guys teaching I found out helped generations of Belmont and I think we are stronger now than we’ve me remember the Hill students. There is we are in great shape and I think ever been.” Although he would never say material. I assumed no finer example than we are stronger now than we’ve it and probably does not think it, much of they were all true. Dr. Andrew A. Hack ever been” - Dr. Wachtmeister that is due to Doc. His tireless efforts over He made a huge ‘91, who spoke about the last thirty years have made the Science impact on my life Doc at his retirement grade you have to give these boys a chance. Department and Belmont Hill a much betand how I teach.” party on campus ear- Sometimes even if they don’t have the ability ter place, and I know I speak for all of us in D o c lier in May. After Bel- but you get them excited, they’ll do great.” thanking him. Thank you, Doc Wacht! ☐ Wacht’s teaching mont Hill, Dr. Hack This philosophy is what makes Doc such career before graduated from the an exemplary and transformative educator. Belmont Hill was University of Chiactually much cago, the Pritzker different than you School of Medicine might imagine. at UChicago, and Originally he later earned a PhD wanted to attend in molecular biology. medical school and Despite having taken become a medical doctor. classes with some of the Directly after college he most renowned doctors got married and had two and professors in the kids relatively quickly. country, Dr. Hack said, In addition, he pursued “I can say without a moa master’s degree at the ment of hesitation, or an College of William and ounce of reservation, that Mary for one year. During NO teacher, professor or this time he realized that clinician has had as big an with two kids and a wife, impact on my trajectory in medical school was a either school or in life, as less viable option, so he Dr. Wachtmeister.” He also decided to go to work. At went further as to explain that time Doc did not the reasons why Doc From the archives: Doc Wacht teaching a biology class. know whether h e was such a great mentor
Jun e 5 , 2 0 1 7
Belmont Hill NEWS
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Mr. English Departs for Master’s Degree
and building expenses. A summer job at Upward Bound, a government-sponsored educational program that aids low-income, After joining Belmont Hill’s faculty first-generation students in their preparain 2015, Mr. English will leave to pursue a tion for college, similarly inspired English master’s degree at the Harvard Graduate to seek a position as a Physics teacher at the School of Education next fall. Having spent Forman School the year after his graduatwo years as a science teacher, art instruc- tion. Ties to Bowdoin’s football program tor, football coach, lacrosse coach, and an and experience as a teacher at the Forman overseer of the iLab, Mr. English departs School in Connecticut both led English to Belmont Hill having fully utilized the full Belmont. When Mr. English was hoping breadth of his talents and interests for the to relocate from his position at the Forbetterment of students and the School itself. man School in early 2015, he reached out Most Belmont Hill students are un- to Mr. Butler, a fellow alumni of Bowdoin’s aware that a print of Mr. English’s is fea- football program. Mr. Butler, also a memtured in the Melvoin Academic Center’s ber of the Science Department, encourfirst floor faculty room. Simple but striking, aged Mr. English to apply for an open pothe print was collected by Mrs. Doherty last sition in the department, and he excitedly year when she organized a faculty art col- accepted the position when he received it. Aside from art and athletics, Mr. lection. Mr. English, one of a few teachers English has primarily served as a faculty who have produced a collection of visual member in the Science Department. The art, majored in both Physics and Visual Arts Physics component of his unique double as a 2014 graduate of Bowdoin College, major has allowed him to teach Physics and was thus given the chance to showcase to seniors and Engineering to third formhis work at a Bowdoin gallery during his ers, while skill with coding and “Maker” final year as a student. The print that reeducation provided Mr. English with the mains in the Melvoin faculty room, a rembackground to instruct Computer Science nant from that senior show, and Mr. Eng1 this past year. A mushrooming expertise lish’s general passion for printmaking and painting speak to his well-rounded nature. in the application of technology to science In addition to teaching Middle education coincided well with his position School art in his two years at Belmont as a faculty overseer of the iLab, where he Hill, Mr. English has coached both 4th la- would advise Middle School Robotics and crosse and 5th football. A talented athlete help students code, 3D print, and use other at a secondary school more than quadru- advanced machinery in the innovation lab. Due partially to his experience in the (L to R): Jack Daley ‘17, Andrew Kaneb ‘17, Brian Tanabe ‘17, and Jimmy Melican ‘17 ple the size of Belmont Hill, Council Rock iLab, Mr. English intends to concentrate in High School North in his hometown of the interest and understanding of their audiTechnology, Innovation, and Education as Newtown, Pennsylvania, English played By Liam Durbin ‘19 ence. They were also quite adept at answerbasketball, lacrosse, and football. Follow- he pursues his master’s degree (M.Ed.). AfStaff Writer ing any and all questions asked by those that ing his high school graduation in 2010, ter completing his master’s, Mr. English is Each year, eight to ten rising juniors visited the event, ranging from the simpler, are selected from their class to participate more general question to the more complex in Advanced Science Research, a program questions from science faculty members headed by Mr. Courtney to allow a select such as Mr. Courtney. Each boy seemed to group of students who have a vested interest truly enjoy what it was he had researched in research and science in general to gain lab and displayed this interest through his obexperience. Each student finds their own lab vious enthusiasm for the project while exwith a mentor to aid them in their project, plaining it. All this was achieved by the seand then spends the next two years of their niors despite the complexity, intricateness, Belmont Hill career, including lab time dur- and long-term nature of their projects. The ing the summer, working on their indepen- dedicated attitude of all of the seniors was dent research project. The experience culmi- clearly summarized by Armin Thomas, who nates in the publication of the student’s work arrived at Belmont Hill for his poster dein a scientific journal, as well as the entry of fense with a surgical mask and a cold sweat, their work into the Regeneron Science Tal- having to sit in a chair while he defended his ent Search, a nationwide competition. One poster as he fiercely battled an unknown illkey portion of this program’s endgame is the ness in order to attend. The posters them“poster defense.” Each senior must present selves were also quite impressive, effectively A collection of Mr. English’s work can also be seen on The Panel Online (bhpanel.org) his project in MacPherson for two hours, conveying the necessary information pertiexplaining their work to whomever may nent to the subject, but at the same time reMr. English went on to play four years entertaining the possibility of designing an stop by to see them. I had the pleasure of at- maining easy to comprehend to the average of college football as a TE at Bowdoin. online educational platform that develops tending this year’s poster defense, and I was reader. This year was also very successful in It was also at Bowdoin that English coursework and tools to help teachers teach extremely impressed by the professional at- terms of the Regeneron Talent Search, with first grew interested in mentorship and edu- engineering, coding, and maker science to titude, depth of understanding, and overall two of the seniors, Jack Daley and Andrew cation. Joining the Residential Life team at elementary through high school students. As with so many of his projects at Bowdoin enthusiasm displayed by the ASR seniors. Kaneb, making it to the semi-finals, a feat Bowdoin during his sophomore year, Mr. and Belmont Hill, such an effort would com- Each student was happy to explain their that few Belmont Hill boys have achieved in English became involved in helping first- bine the best of Mr. English’s skills with sciproject at any level of depth and to any de- the past. Overall, the ASR poster defense was year students acclimate to college. Becom- ence, art, and education. The entire Belmont gree of understanding, and could clearly and a great success for this year’s seniors, and I ing a Head Proctor during his senior year, Hill community wishes Mr. English luck in succinctly convey whatever it was their proj- congratulate them for their success, dedicahe managed a first-year dorm and handled graduate school and in this ambitious, but ect pertained to, all the while maintaining tion, and enthusiasm for their projects. ☐ residential conflicts, as well as budgeting extremely valuable potential endeavor. ☐ By William McCormack ‘18 Panel Staff
ASR Seniors Defend Their Research
First-Annual Belmont Hill Short Film Festival a Smashing Success
by Payton Privitera, and finally “BHPD” ton Privitera. “Admissions” was a funny skit was an edit of the China Spring Break trip, by Liam Peterson, Jake Pappo, Joe Rom- that took Mr. Carr’s speech about the type of however, this film made use of quick cuts to ney, and Jack Weldon. “Wrestling” and boy that represents Belmont Hill, and juxta- skillfully convey the entirety of the trip to the posed it with audience. “BHPD” was by far the highlight The Belmont Hill Short Film Festival “ H o c k e y ” the laughable of the festival. This was a seven minute film was a major success, showing thirteen short both prostereotypes of starring Jack Weldon as a grizzled cop and films by mostly freshmen in the Digital vided film a nerd, prep- Jake Pappo as a booksmart rookie. These Video Class. The program was as follows; of practices ster, theater two had incredible comedic timing and a “Wrestling” By Max Peterson, “Narrated” here at Belkid , and ath- hilarious relationship onscreen, as the cop by Tim Brown, “The Suburbs” by Jack Win- mont Hill. lete. “Hawaii” had to “toughen up” the rookie. Overall, the ston, “The Game” by Mauricio Rodriguez, “Wrestling” was a funny edit Film Festival was an awesome experience “Admissions” by Dylan Brown, Brady Chit- looked at a made of all the and I cannot wait to go again next year. ☐ kara, Griffin Hamilton, and Jack Henehan, 3rd Wresshenanigans “My Home” by Ysael Porro, “Looped” by tling practhat went Dan Madden, “Hawaii” by Brady Chitkara, tice, with down on the “Flashback” by Max Peterson, “China” by n a r r a t i o n Dylan Brown, “Stranded” by Jake Pappo, by Dr. Davis. “Hockey” looked at a JV Hawaii trip led by Mr. Trautz and Mr. LeonTim Brown, and Brady Chitkara, “Hockey” Hockey practice, with savvy editing by Pay- ardis over Spring Break. “China” similarly By Josh Fairman ‘19 Staff Writer
Belmont Hill NEWS
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Th e Pan el
Mrs. Hacker Bids Farewell to Belmont Hill After Six Years her future husband, she began her current advisees, such as Gavin Colbert ‘18 and tegral part of school life for many boys. occupation: a member of Belmont Hill’s Nick Carroll ‘18, remember their time with With the arrival of her second son, faculty. Mrs. Hacker did not join varsity her fondly, a testament to her effectiveness. Mrs. Hacker decided to leave the workforce Mrs. Hacker as- to spend time with her family. While her caAfter six years assisting both the ad- lacrosse’s Mr. Sullivan, a Williams alumnus himsumed a reduced role reer can be put on hold, she reasons, her sons missions department and financial aid stuself, on the sidelines due when her first son was will not be small forever. To keep her mind dents, Mrs. Hacker is leaving Belmont Hill to the differences between born; beginning in the occupied, she will continue to participate in to care for her two sons. Many of the youngthe two sports, but she fall of 2015, she no lon- various boards, such as her former summer er students may not know her as well, as she handled a taxing schedger taught but instead fo- camp’s and her sons’ schools’. Just as Mrs. has not been in the classroom for three years; ule nonetheless, teachcused on other elements O’Connor, yet another Williams graduate, however, she has helped many students over ing tenth grade English, of the School. She aided did this past year, Mrs. Hacker may return to her tenure, whether as a teacher, advisor, advising, and coaching financial aid students treBelmont Hill eventually when her sons find coach, or the Director of Financial Aid. Middle School lacrosse mendously, introducing more independence. She plans on a reapOnce she graduated from Williams and soccer superbly. innovative ideas such as pearance at some educational facility, even College in the early 2000’s, Mrs. Hacker Mrs. Hacker noticed the free tuxedos for prom; if not Belmont Hill; for instance, Steppingworked at Deerfield for a few years, where healthy student-teacher furthermore, she sifted stone, an urban program which prepares less she honed her skills in admissions. She then relationships on her first through hundreds of apfortunate students, has expressed interest in transitioned to Milton Academy, where she day, and she believes that plications, conducted her services, where she would become an incoached the girls’ varsity lacrosse team. As aspect creates a unique dozens of interviews, stant asset. Obviously, Belmont Hill has masa former college athlete, Mrs. Hacker took school environment; she and helped prospecsive shoes to fill to replace her, but we hope pride in her ability to impart her knowledge relished the opportunity tive families understand Mrs. Hacker both enjoys her well-deserved of the game, and the team found great sucto foster meaningful bonds with each stuthe fine print of the financial aid forms. break and visits as much as possible! ☐ cess. After both enrolling in the Harvard dent, a task much harder at a larger school Although she could not engage in daily Graduate School of Education and meeting like Milton. Indeed, many of her former interactions as often, she remained an inBy John Markis ‘18 Panel Staff
Class of 2017 Leaves Enduring Legacy Throughout Campus BH’s tradition of excellence, as the lacrosse Knowlton, Varun Shah, and Ben London to increase Belmont Hill’s awareness of program captured its third straight ISL title assisted in elevating the quality of Bel- spirituality. Sam Hesler continued Belmont (and fourth in five years), while varsity track mont Hill’s school productions, showcas- Hill’s longstanding tradition of visiting and For members of the Class of 2017, cruised to a fourth straight NEPSTA win. ing their talents as actors, vocalists, stage interacting with senior citizens at the MeadIn music, members of the Class managers, and even directors. Knowl- owgreen Nursing Home, while William today’s Commencement ceremonies mark the end of their Belmont Hill careers. Al- of 2017 participated in a wide breadth ton and Shah guided the production of Stonestreet spearheaded BH’s Work Crew though they will be alumni of rather than of student groups. Musicians like Armin “Of Mice and Men” this past February. program. Tomás Paris and Armin Thomas In extracurriculars, boys from struck the school community with both students at the School, their myriad list of Thomas, Andrew Kaneb, Scott Jackson, JP accomplishments will continue to impact Champa, Marshall Knight Mack Perry, as the Class of 2017 reinvigorated several key fear and awe as they grew the Government future waves of Belmont Hill students. well as multi-talented vocalists like Sebas- clubs on campus. Brian Tanabe, Henry Code and Cipher School. Finally, Michael “Whether it be in the classroom, in athletics, tian Themelis, Seamus Clair, Jacob Whitney, Moukheiber, and William Hintlian led a re- Armstrong, Jack Daley, and Andrew Kaneb, on stage, in the robotics lab, or in all the oth- and Bennett Rush have blessed Belmont Hill vival of Belmont Hill’s robotics program, uti- leaders of Belmont Hill’s Sustainability Club, er endeavors we have taken on,” Ray Hunt, with the joys of song and lyric. For the past lizing the new iLab to substantially increase completed a successful effort to install solar class president of the Class of 2017 for six couple years, ‘17 boys have been the driv- participation in both the middle and upper panels on the roof of the science building. Outside the confines of Belmont consecutive years, commented, “we have sur- ing force behind musical events like Coffee school. Tanabe would also extend the impact of Belmont Hill Hill’s campus, members from the Class of passed expectations and set new standards.” House, the Winter In the realm of academics, the Concert, and Spring “There is truly no place like this robotics to the Butler 2017 pioneered the School’s global eduElementary School in cation efforts, as seven students spent at Class of 2017 has been noted for its suc- Concert, as well as school.” - Ray Hunt ‘17 Belmont, where he least part of their fifth form year studycess in Advanced Science Research. Andrew groups like the BKaneb, who did research on whole exome Flats and Jazz Combo. When asked to com- led a group of boys each week to teach third ing away from Belmont. Gus Lamb spent a and genome sequencing of central neu- ment about the Class of 2017’s impact on graders robotics and coding. Alex Czar- semester at CITY Term in New York City, rocytoma, and Jack Daley, who examined music at Belmont Hill, Armin Thomas re- necki, Dan Zakon, Jason Fischman, Bradley while Lebanos Mengistu spent a semester maturation of the endoplasmic reticulum sponded, “In performances of every vein, Hart, and Hunter Present helped resuscitate at SEGL in Washington DC. Five students translocon complex in stem cell derived beta from traditional concerts to stand-up Cof- the School’s debate team. Present became spent an entire year abroad with SYA: Seacells, were both recognized as two of only fee Houses, the Class of 2017 will have left the first Belmont Hill boy to earn a spot mus Clair Moahammed Osman, and Owen eight semifinalists from Massachusetts in behind an indelible legacy. Their departure on the US debate team in a quarter-centu- Greenwood in China, James Cardichon the 2017 Regeneron Science Talent Search. will signal the end of a musically prosperous ry, and he travelled to Sydney, Australia in in Spain, and Sebastian Themelis in Italy. “All in all, we will miss Belmont In athletics, varsity football cap- era and hopefully the dawning of a new one.” April for the 2017 World Individual DebatIn art, seniors like Will Ryan helped ing and Public Speaking Championships. Hill greatly, and while the future holds excittains Ray Hunt ‘17, Pete Tamasi, Zach Geddes, and Nate Miller led the team to a co- Belmont Hill get recognized as Program of Gus Lamb inspired students with his duo of ing prospects, there is truly no place quite ISL championship and a decisive victory the Year by the New England Association poignant speeches, one about an infamous like this school,” Hunt concluded. Addressover Wilbraham and Monson to win the of Woodworking Teachers. Owen Green- friend named Jack and the other about sea ing his final words to younger students New England championship. Cross coun- wood excelled in ceramics and also helped turtles, to win the 2016 Fall Woodbury Pub- and encouraging them to fully engage in try similarly captured an ISL title, while to teach wheelworking to adults in the lic Speaking Contest. Bennett Rush created aspects of school life as well as members of seniors on varsity wrestling, varsity squash, Belmont community with special needs. Boys of Faith, a discussion group open to stu- the Class of 2017 did, Ray continued, “EnIn theater, seniors such as Peter dents of all religions and beliefs that sought joy your time here; you can’t get it back.” ☐ varsity lacrosse, and varsity track continued By William McCormack ‘18 Panel Staff
After Successful Year, Mr. Debling Departs for MFA at Oxford Alistair is intrigued by the visual 21st century, more than ever, being able to opening in the Arts department which arts for a number of reasons. Firstly, he think critically about images and produce fit his interests was open, and he aplearned how to tell stories through filmmak- your own are two very important skills to plied immediately. At Belmont Hill, have.” Seeking to share Mr. Debling taught a number of film Alistair Debling, a new addition to ing. This skill is crucial in and teach his passion and photography classes, both openthe Belmont Hill faculty, grew up in Bristol, both creative work and for the visual arts to oth- ing the door to visual arts for boys who England. His first experience with the visual other professional fields; ers, Mr. Debling turned would never have considered working arts, his area of expertise, occurred when he Alistair also learned of to a career in teaching. in the field and guiding and improvwas in elementary school. He was given dis- the challenges of writThis year was ing the skills of those already interposable cameras to use on trips, and com- ing, shooting, and editing Mr. Debling’s first year ested. My class in particular showed mented that, “[viewing your photos] was while making a film. He of teaching. He had al- incredible progress in cinematograalways an exciting moment, going through a enjoys tackling these probways considered teach- phy, storytelling, and filmmaking over stack of new prints - often it had been awhile lems in creative ways in ing as a career, and the course of one short semester. Next since I’d taken them, so you get to relive your order to produce the best knew of several prep year, Mr. Debling will be earning his good memories.” Furthering his passion for film possible. Secondly, he schools in New Eng- MFA in visual arts at the University film, Alistair took art classes throughout his is fascinated by the domiland which had open- of Oxford, and hopes to stay involved high school education, primarily photogra- nation which images have ings for recent gradu- in the arts and education. Although phy. His first experience with moving im- in our lives today. From ates to teach. As he and we are sad to see him go, we wish him ages was in his senior year, when he made walking down the street Mr. Sundel, another well for the future and thank him for animations using cut-up photographs and to opening your phone, teacher at Belmont Hill, the work he has done at Belmont Hill. drawings. At Harvard, he focused more on images are nearly imposknew each other from the art of film, taking fiction filmmaking sible to avoid. Mr. Debling classes and majoring in Visual and Envi- told me that he believes learning the art of Harvard, our school was brought to his ronmental Studies, while pursuing interests images is important to our understanding attention. When Mr. Debling looked to in theater and military theory on the side. of today’s world, stating “I think that in the see the available job opportunities, an By Jack Weldon ‘20 Panel Staff
Jun e 5 , 2 0 1 7
Belmont Hill NEWS & Sp orts
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An Engaging Track & Field Dominates With Impressive ISTA, NEPSTA Wins Diversity Day for the Community By Arnav Prasad ‘18 Panel Staff On May 15th the Belmont Hill community gathered for its annual school-wide Diversity Day, a day of community-driven reflection with no classes for students and faculty. The event offered a special confluence as national and local conversations on race, religion, gender, and class converged with a focus on Belmont Hill’s onship, Belmont Hill battled intensely for McGaugh ‘18 in both the 800 and 1500 history and its connections to slavery. By Quin McGaugh ‘18 and every point in every event, eventually win- meter races. In an exciting twist, Belmont The film “Traces of the Trade,” which Matthew Smith ‘19 ning by a margin of 44.5 points. Notable per- Hill’s 4x400-meter relay team, comprised was screened in separate locations to the Panel Staff formances included F.A.T school records by of all seniors, closed out its season with a school, served as a catalyst for discussion As the school year draws to a close, Isaiah Collins ‘18 in the 100-meter dash and third place finish, 4 places above its seed. throughout the morning and afternoon. The The win marked Belmont Hill’s the Belmont Hill track and field team fin- by Evan Ricci ‘17 in the 300-meter hurdles. director, producer, and narrator of the film Following up their victory with an- fourth consecutive year with the title, shadished out an impressive season in their two Katrina Browne, who was active during the championship meets, ISTAs and NEPSTAs. other week of grueling practice, the Bel- owed only by an impressive 20th straight day’s sessions, brought a theme of the dayAfter facing defeat at the hands of Exeter, mont Hill Track and Field Team then made victory at NEPSTAs by the Thayer girl’s -the legacy of slavery--to the forefront of the team was eager to bounce back. Seeded the onerous trek to Williston Northampton team. Furthermore, after doing some calschool discussion. Browne is a descendant first in both competitions, Belmont Hill was in western Massachusetts for the Division culations, Ray Hunt and Evan Ricci conof the DeWolfe family, which profited from poised for a commanding victory over even II NEPSTAs. Once again, the boys in blue cluded that Belmont Hill would have won the slave trade from their hometown of Bristheir closest opponents, including Tabor would prevail, attaining a whopping 53 Division I NEPSTAs as well. The domitol, Rhode Island. Ms. Browne encouraged and Thayer. After a solid week of training, point lead by the end of the meet. This mas- nance of the 2017 Belmont Hill track and students to begin to reckon with the school’s the athletes were poised for success. Jour- sive lead was thanks in part to exceptional field team was truly special and may be past. She urged students and faculty alike to neying down to Tabor for the ISL champi- performances by John Pappo ‘18 and Quin unreplicatable in the years to come. ☐ research and re-evaluate Belmont Hill’s own connections to slavery, such as the bell which stands tall outside the dining hall without any indication of its origins from a plantation in By Matthew Goguen ‘19 Cuba that was owned by the Atkins family, Panel Staff one of the founding families of Belmont Hill. After a strong 2016 season, Coach This spring semester, Mr. Hegarty Doar and the golf team had high hopes taught a senior independent study examheading into the 2017 season. With a team ining Belmont Hill’s ties with the Atkins composed of middle schoolers and upFamily and their sugar plantations in Cuba. per schoolers, the golf team came out of The seniors, James Cardichon, Gus Lamb, the gates looking for an ISL championLebanos Mengistu, and Sebastian Themelis, ship. New additions including Connor delved deeply into Belmont Hill’s history. Willett (’21) and Charlie Donahue (’20), The group ultimately connected Belmont bolstered the golfing attack. The team Hill’s emergence as a local yet elite school opened up winning its first 9 out of 10 to the much needed financial support of matches. This included two narrow 4-3 victhe Atkins Family, much of whose wealth tories against Milton Academy and Rivers. was derived from Cuban plantations. As The team had great contributions from Lebanos mentioned during his portion of the seniors, Marshall Knight and Jack Neely, the Diversity Day presentation, “by 1886, as well as junior captain Oisin Treanor. On the Atkins family had also bought the Monday May 15th, the golf team competed Soledad plantation with 177 patrocinados, in the ISL Kingman Tournament, which candidly referred to as esclavos, or slaves.” would determine the ISL champion of 2017. However, the group hypothesized The team competed well against powerhousthat, without the Atkins’ family support, es such as Buckingham Browne and Nichthe school may have been unable to cope ols, and finished 4th in the cutthroat field. with the departures of faculty and students With a successful season, capalike during World War Two. During his tains Maahin Gulati and Oisin Treportion of the presentation, Mr. Hegarty anor look for a successful 2018 camquoted the words of Mr. Prenatt, our school paign for the Belmont Hill golf team. ☐ archivist, that Mrs. Atkins, matriarch of the Atkins family for many decades, was the “guardian angel of the school. There have been many builders of this instituMaritime barracks. The team finished sec- ship award. Stephen Pellegrino will join tion over the years, and she is one of them.” By Jack Murphy ‘18 ond overall, while winning A fleet. This past Jack Murphy as captains next year. ☐ The group opened the community Staff Writer week the team competed at Mass States, on to complex, yet relevant facets of Belmont The Belmont Hill sailing team is the Charles River, finishing third overall. Hill’s historical identity. As the school The other format of high school coming to the end of a challenging seareckons with its past, the extended comsailing is team racing, which is almost exson in 2017, succeeding in both formats munity will begin to address how the clusive to high school sailing. This is where of high school sailing. One of these forschool moves forward in its endeavors. two teams face off on a race course, each mats, and the more common in the world The newly created course Advanced Hiswith three boats, and try to position their of sailing, is called fleet racing. This is torical Research will continue investigatboats so that they cross the finish line ahead where the boats, typically around 20 in ing Belmont Hill’s history next spring. of the other team’s boats. So instead of tryhigh school regattas, race every boat for Dr. Melvoin believes “that Diversity ing to finish ahead of as many boats as posthemselves, competing to finish ahead Day this year represented a particularly sible like in fleet racing, in team racing a of as many boats as they can. A number important and valuable day for the school. boat winning the race may need to come of races constitute a regatta, which usuFor one thing, in seeing the film Traces of back in order to help their other teammates ally lasts all day, or on some occasions, the Trade and discussing it, both as a full all weekend. The sailing team had a very get ahead of a boat on the opposite team. school and within advisor groups, every stuThe team had a slow start in team successful year in fleet racing. The team dent confronted more deeply the complex racing, losing two very closes matches against qualified for New England’s, held at MIT, legacy of slavery in this country. For anMoses Brown and BC High, but were able for the first time in over a decade, after other, to learn that Belmont Hill is another to finish the season with a winning record. a strong result in the most competitive New England institution that is not exempt Sailing loses 2 seniors this of the four regional qualifiers in Marblefrom the legacy of America’s past is an imyear, Jacob Whitney, the top crew on head. The team also went up to Castine portant lesson for us all. We still have more the team for over 4 years, and Bennett ME for the Downeast Regatta, a two-day to learn, and perhaps to do as well, but as a Rush, recent winner of the sportsmanwhere the sailors stayed over in the Maine school we have taken a big step forward.” ☐
Golf Team Caps Off Another Successful Season on the Links
Varsity Sailing Rebounds From Slow Start
Prize Day 2017
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Th e Pan el
Extracurriculars & Arts B Flats Music Awards
Philip L.W. Bailey, Seamus K. Clair, Peter Knowlton, Benjamin L. London, Bennett P. Rush, William T. Ryan, Varun M. Shah, Sebastian Themelis, Jacob T. Whitney, Daniel E. Zakon
Choral & Vocal Prize
Varun M. Shah, Daniel E. Zakon
Instrumental Music Prize
Scott L.R. Jackson, Armin M. Thomas
Ensemble Award
Michael T. Armstrong, John Paul Champa, Scott L.R. Jackson, Marshall J. Knight, Andrew A. Kaneb, Tomás E. Paris, McAlister J. Perry, Brian M. Tanabe, Armin M. Thomas
Diversity Leadership Award
James W. Cardichon, Augustus H. E. Lamb, Lebanos G. Mengistu, Sebastian Themelis
Woodbury Public Speaking Prize
Augustus H. E. Lamb (Fall), John E. Daley (Spring)
Hayden Gaylord Coon Drama Prize
Peter F. Knowlton (Acting), Varun M. Shah (Technical)
The Paul J. Zofnass ‘65 Environmental Award
John E. Daley, Andrew A. Kaneb
Hampers Lyceum Award
Alexander W. Czarnecki, Jason S. Fischman, Bradley K. Hart
Edward M. Burt Community Service Award
James W. Cardichon, Cameron D. Hall, Samuel P. Hesler, Lebanos G. Mengistu, Henry M. Moukheiber, Zachary J. Shpilner, Brian M. Tanabe, Andrew W. Berg, Jacob T. Carter, Brady P. Chikara, Matthew A. Drucker, Duncan S. Grant, William J. McCormack, Luca J. Pontone, Thomas A. Ryan, Abraham B. Tolkoff, Colin A. Vallis, Coleman P. Walsh
Warburg Community Service Award
Lebanos G. Mengistu, Brian M. Tanabe
Panel Carving Prize
Daniel J. Griffin IV
Angelo Togneri Art Prize
Thomas A. Ryan
Thomas Photography Prize
Donavan D. Payne
Global Citizenship Award
Ishaan Prasad
Babe Ruth Sportsmanship Award
Athletics
Michael T. Armstrong, William T. Ryan
Red and Blue Key Society
John D. Ablon, Seamus K. Clair, Jason S. Fischman, Peter G. Flaherty, Jonathan P. Folsom, Cameron P. Gordon, Daniel J. Griffin, Varun M. Shah, Armin M. Thomas, Ugo B. Anuonyemere, Adam L. Batchelor, Patrick G. Connor, Maahin Gulati, Artemy A. Ivanov, Jovan A. Jones, Austin J. Kwoun, Grant W. Litchfield, Daniel M. Milmoe, David I. Mitchell, Lawson B. Morris, Liam C. Murphy, Stephen J. Pellegrino, Gabriel C. Peterkin, Thomas A. Ryan
Darren D. Gallup Three Sport Athlete Award
Michael T. Armstrong, John E. Daley, Cameron D. Hall, Gifford R. Metz, Peter D. O’Connell, William T. Ryan, Patrick J. Shea, John M. Sommers, Robert P. Williamson
Charles F. Kenney ‘06 Prize
Michael T. Armstrong
The Independent School League Award of Excellence
William T. Ryan
Classics
Maureen O’Donnell Book Prize
John E. Markis, Jeffrey C. Price, David J. Paine, Arnav Prasad, Antonio B. Ubeda
Carter Drake Goad Award
Alexander W. Czarnecki, Raymond W. Hunt, Andrew A. Kaneb
Jared Waterbury Scudder Latin Prize
Ishaan Prasad
Modern Language Spanish Prize
Gavin I. Colbert, Duncan S. Grant
French Prize
Gabriel A. J. Raffa, Dan Schwartz
Raymund A. Kathe Prize
Coleman P. Walsh, Mohammed A.M. Osman
Prize Day 2017
Jun e 5 , 2 0 1 7
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Middle School Middle School Public Speaking Prize
Colin C. Trueman (Fall), Liam M. Kelly (Spring)
Middle School Drama Award
Ryan D. Cannistraro (Acting), John P. Henehan (Acting), Jalen C. A. Walker (Technical)
Prospepctor Prize
John K. Weldon
Bell Award
Chetan C. Shukla
Newell Howes Morton Award
Nicholas V. Castellucci, John R. McHugh
Middle School Award of Merit - Form I
Christopher J. Aufiero, Luke J. Carroll, Charles D. Cave, Braden M. Reilly, Henry Wyatt Schmidek
Middle School Award of Merit - Form II
Wyatt P. Barlage, Ryan D. Cannistraro, Grant W. Litchfield, Jalen C.A. Walker
Middle School Award of Merit - Form III
Matthew A. Drucker, Andrew J. Lee, Daniel M. Milmoe, Liam A. Peterson, Max G. Peterson, Ysael Porro, John K. Weldon
Gregg Citizenship Award
Jacob A. Czarnecki
Helena Weister Funk Award
John R. McHugh
Math
Mathematical Association (AMC) of America Award
Massimo Aufiero, Matthew A. Smith
N.E. Mathematics League Award (NEML)
Massimo Aufiero, Antonio B. Ubeda
Rensselaer Mathematics & Science Medal
Massimo Aufiero
Maxwell Mathematics Prize
Johnathan P. Folsom
Thomas G. Walters Mathematics Achievement Prize
Armin M. Thomas
Science Henry S. Robinson Physics Prize
John E. Daley, Andrew A. Kaneb
Frederick C. Richardson Chemistry Prize
Antonio B. Ubeda, Jacob T. Carter
Clifford Goodband Biology Prize
Matthew A. Smith
Staehle Downes Geology Prize
Jack B. Vander Vort, Zachary D. Geddes
Thomas G. Walters Mathematics Achievement Prize
Armin M. Thomas
English Willey Sextant Prize for Creative Writing
Gabriel C. Peterkin, Henry M. Vettel
Brown Book Award
David J. Paine
Henry S. Robinson English Prize
Alexander W. Czarnecki, Mohammed A.M. Osman
History Monaco American History Prize
Jacob T. Carter, William J. McCormack
Downes History Prize
Alexander W. Czarnecki
Form V Awards Book Prizes
Massimo Aufiero (Harvard), William J. McCormack (Harvard), Ishaan Prasad (Williams), David I. Mitchell (Yale)
Belmont Hill Sp orts
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Th e Pan el
Athlete of the Issue: Evan Ricci ‘17 A Strong Season for Varsity Tennis feating Brooks 14-1. BB&N and Belmont Hill shared 2nd place in the ISL, with each team having only one loss. BB&N was lookLed by senior captains Jack Ablon ing for revenge on their home court, after and Owen Greenwood, the 2017 varsity Belmont Hill defeated them to win the ISL tennis team had a stellar season after los- title last year. Unfortunately for BH, the ing 4 team members from the 2016 ISL Knights bested them in the last match of championship run. The whole team has season; nevertheless the squad is more fired performed at a high level throughout the up than ever to avenge their defeat next year. The BB&N match was the last match entire season, particularly 3 seeded Danny Tsyvin, who is yet to drop a set in ISL play. in a Belmont Hill uniform for seniors Jack The team experienced some heart- Ablon, Owen Greenwood, Scott Jackson, breaking losses to Roxbury Latin and and Jack Daley, all of whom have greatly Brunswick, but also won some key games contributed to the tennis program throughincluding an 8-7 thriller at Groton and a out their time at Belmont Hill. Despite the 14-1 rout of an undefeated Milton team. departure of 4 seniors after the season, the With the final match of the season team aspires to remain near the top of the approaching rapidly, the team looked to ISL in years to come with the help of curfinish the season on a high note with a rent middle schoolers: Andrew Lee, Matt match against BB&N, after recently de- Drucker, Aaron Belluck, and Jarrett Chen. ☐ By Thomas Smith ‘19 Staff Writer
Now, in his second year of hurdling, Ricci has exceeded all expectations. A regular contributor of points, Ricci has played a While most of the athletes covered in crucial role in the track and field team’s near Athlete of the Issue have spent many years perfect season. By around midway through perfecting their craft, Evan Ricci ‘17 started the season, Ricci had broken hand-timed running the hurdles less than two years ago. school records in both the 110-meter and Joining the Belmont Hill track and field team 300-meter hurdles. At ISTAs, Ricci won at the start of the 2016 season, Ricci quickly both his events, setting a F.A.T record in took to the hurdles and, under the guid- the 300-meter hurdles. Then, at NEPSTAs, ance of Mr. Kirby, soon found major suc- Ricci once again crushed the competition, cess. During that initial season, Ricci placed taking home two more 1st place medals at both ISTAs and NEPSTAs, scoring much to add to his rapidly growing collection. Ricci will attend Boston College, needed points for Belmont Hill and coming within seconds of both school records. where he will potentially run track. ☐ By Matthew Smith ‘19 Panel Staff
Successful Season for BH Varsity Crew
second boat – rowed by Captain Pat Shea, Jackson Stone, Spenser Nuzzo, and Robbie Warming – entered NEIRAs as the first seed and continued their more than decade-long Despite many injuries, uncoopera- win streak (beginning in 2006). Captain tive weather, and other various obstacles Will Ryan, Teddy Danziger, Michael Glaunthroughout the spring, this year’s varsity inger, and Jack “yah der” Vander Vort rowed crew team has enjoyed similar success as in the third boat, which was third seed going past seasons. The team remained undefeated into NEIRAs. Finishing above their seed at in team racing with only a few boats losing 2nd place, they avenged their losses to CRLS singular races throughout the season. The earlier in the season. The fourth boat, which rowers and coxswains took home the Du- consisted of Colin Vallis, Luke O’Hare, cey Cup, Bassett Cup, and won the Wayland Nick Wilkins, and Ben St. Peters, entered Weston Regatta yet again. The boys had a NEIRAs as a first seed, but fell just short in strong showing at the NEIRA Regatta at a 2nd place finish to Deerfield. Coming the end of May. Historically, Belmont Hill in at second place, just behind Deerfield, Crew has won more gold medals at this BH looks to recapture first place in 2018. Overall, it has been a successful searegatta than all other schools combined. As the New England Championship son and the rowers and coxswains would regatta fast approached, the top four boats all like to thank Coaches Richards, George, looked to win New England titles. The first Stone, Sobstyl, Parajo, and McDougal for boat went into the regatta as a second seed their continued dedication. As the seniors behind Deerfield. With a lineup consisting head off to college next year, the team of Henry Thomas, Andrew Berg, Eric White- would like to thank them for their leadhead, and Sean Mannion, the crew looked to ership and wish them luck as they preavenge Deerfield’s 2016 win, but narrowly pare to graduate from Belmont Hill. ☐ missed the mark with a 3rd place finish. The By Luke O’Hare ‘18 and Richie Kendall ‘19 Panel Staff
Varsity Baseball Completes Another Successful Season with 14-5 Record
Rohrer, Jake McOsker, Peter O’Connell, and have all committed to their respective col- and thrashing BB&N 8-2. A solid group of Devin O’Donovan have combined for a re- leges, hoping to pursue a future in baseball. fifth formers will gain leadership of the team markable six shutouts, holding Groton, St. The team ended its season strongly, next Spring, and Belmont Hill baseball looks George’s, St. Mark’s, Milton Acadbeating Brooks in a close 6-5 game at home forward to continued success in 2018. ☐ As the spring season comes to a close, emy, St. Paul’s, and Roxbury Latin our varsity baseball team, coached by Mr. to a combined zero runs. Even so, Grant and Mr. O’Leary, has managed the team has certainly had to deal with to put together another very sucadversity along the way, suffering disapcessful season. After securpointing losses at the hands of perening key victories down nial tough opponents in Governor’s the stretch against Academy and Lawrence Academy. opponents such as Amidst a fabulous roster, there St. Sebastian’s, Milton certainly have been standout performAcademy, and Roxbury Laters. Fellow teammates have identified in, the team stands with a curEvan Sleight, Brendan Rocha, Sam rent record of 12-5. Members of Rohrer, and Robbie Cronin as playthe team attribute their success ing a key roles to this year’s team. to effective practices, which take Furthermore, as a testament to the place both in the batting cages team’s talent and success, several as well as out on the spectacuplayers have already made plans lar varsity diamond, where to play on at the collegiate level. teammates typically break Evan Sleight, (Univeroff into position groups sity of Virginia), in order to hone David Conforti, defensive skills. (New York UniOf course, versity), Pethe team’s success ter O’Connell has been due, in (Bowdoin), large part, to steland Robbie lar pitching. The Cronin (Trinity), pitching staff of Sam By Thomas McEvoy ‘19 Panel Staff
Jun e 5 , 2 0 1 7
Belmont Hill Sp orts & More
Pa g e 9
Varsity Lax
Continued from Front Page final week of the season. Now all that stood in their way of a third consecutive ISL Championship was Brooks and BB&N. Brooks looked like a more than capable team as they lost to a strong Governor’s Academy team by only one goal. However, Belmont Hill had no trouble against the team from North Andover as they rolled to a 16-4 victory. Now all that was left was BB&N. Belmont Hill played hard the entire game and was able to beat BB&N and capture their third ISL Championship in a row and their fourth in the last five years. A dynasty has been created by the incredible coaching of Tim Sullivan and Chris Butler who have now won five ISL Championships together. Congratulations to the whole lacrosse team on yet another excellent season. ☐
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Belmont Hill Arts
Th e Pan el
From Broadway to Belmont:
Selections from “Hamilton” Performed in Hamilton Chapel during Spring Concert
Manuel Miranda’s very difficult rap on “My Shot.” Meanwhile, the chorus complemented soloists nicely, especially during On the afternoon of Sunday, May “My Shot,” in which other members of the 7th, five student music groups convened B-Flats belted out a resounding “AL-EXin the Hamilton Chapel for the 2017 inAN-D-ER-WE ARE-MEANT TO BE,” to stallation of Belmont Hill’s Spring Conaccompany Pickette’s rap. Strong vocals cert. Entertained by an hour and a half of were supplemented by Mr. Patterson’s reninstrumentals and vocals, parents, other dition of Hamilton’s melody on the keyBelmont residents, faculty members, their board, Marshall Knight ‘17 on guitar, Scott families, and other students enjoyed a Jackson ‘17 on drums, and Armin Thomas beautiful afternoon of music and melody. ‘17 on the timpani, a special percussion Directed by Mr. Fiori and Mr. instrument donated by Frank Epstein. The Upper School Jazz EnsemPatterson, the concert featured the mable followed the B-Flats, playing three jority of Belmont Hill’s music troupes. jazz pieces: Herbie Hancock’s “Tell Me The Middle School Jazz Ensemble, Upper a Bedtime Story,” Duke Ellington’s “In a School Jazz Combo, Upper School Jazz Sentimental Mood,” and Frank Foster’s Ensemble, and all-school Orchestra sup“Blues in Hoss Flat.” Marshall Knight ‘17, plied the instrumental portion of the afJohn Paul Champa ‘17, Patrick Connor ternoon, while the B-Flats bridged instru‘18, James Eysenbach ‘19, and the “Croamental performances, singing over eight Jacob Whitney ‘17, Philip Bailey ‘17, and the rest of the B-Flats perform “Lord of All” songs in the middle of the concert’s lineup. groovy James Brown tune; Clair surprised ‘17 played the role of exhorter, leading a tian Sensation” Filip Puljiz ‘18 all soloed. The Orchestra ended the conPerforming an innovative spin on the audience with an impressive rendition. call-response routine among the B-Flats. Sampling a wide variety of mu- The B-Flats’ final set of music, selections cert. A medley from the Pirates of the CaBruno Mars’s pop hit “Treasure,” the Middle School Jazz Ensemble began the concert, sical genres, Belmont Hill’s B-Flats per- from Lin-Manuel Miranda’s “Hamilton: An ribbean, a piece violinist Andrew Kaneb their strong performance bolstered by so- formed third. The group began by sing- American Musical,” was arguably the most ‘17 had been waiting his entire Belmont los from Artemy Ivanov ‘20 on the alto sax- ing “True Colors,” Cyndi Lauper’s famous anticipated component of the Spring Con- Hill career to play, pleasantly stunned ophone and Kevin Jiang ‘22 on the clarinet. 1986 hit that has been readapted several cert. Popular with both the audience and the engrossed audience, the song’s feroSubsequently, The Upper School Jazz Com- times, most recently by Justin Timberlake members of the B-Flats themselves, songs cious undertone providing a backdrop bo, sporting white shirts and sharp blue ties, and Anna Kendrick on Disney’s Trolls. So- performed from “Hamilton” included the to the piece’s subtle individual melotook the stage to perform two tunes. “All of los from Varun Shah ‘17 and Philip Bailey play’s introduction, “Alexander Hamilton,” dies. Kaneb and Austin Kwoun ‘18 perMe,” a classic jazz piece, was played first by ‘17 preceded a duet performed by Theo Aaron Burr’s “Wait for It,” King George formed incredibly, each on the violin. The Spring Concert also served as the group’s core sixth form members: Brian Why ‘18 and Seamus Clair ‘17. Follow- III’s “You’ll Be Back,” and Alexander HamTanabe’ 17 on the tenor saxophone, McAli- ing “True Colors,” the group sang “Au Joli ilton’s, “My Shot.” Peter Knowlton ‘17 sang the last performance for many graduating ster Perry ‘17 on guitar, Armin Thomas Jeu,” a traditional French love song, “Blue Burr’s emotional soliloquy on “Wait for It,” seniors. Although some, like Armin Thom‘17 on the piano, Marshall Knight ‘17 on Ain’t Your Color,” for which Bennett Rush while Ben London ‘17, Sebastian Themelis as ‘17 and members of the B-Flats, would the alto saxophone, and group president ‘17 soloed, and “Good News,” an exciting ‘17, and Philip Bailey ‘17 sang an assort- perform again in Chapel and at the Senior Scott Jackson ‘17 on drums. Knight so- spiritual hymn. Fifth on their tracklist was ment of roles on “Alexander Hamilton.” Talent Show, many ended their Belmont loed on the song, smoothly commanding “Lord of All,” a rousing gospel jam that Theo Why ‘18 beautifully executed “You’ll Hill music careers that Sunday afternoon. his alto sax. The group welcomed B-Flats Mr. Patterson had taught to a group of in- Be Back,” a song that demanded strong, The Spring Concert represented the perfect member Seamus Clair ‘17 to provide vo- dependent school students at Groton’s an- steady vocals and individual poise, while culmination of their efforts and talents. ☐ cals for their second song, “Cold Sweat,” a nual Gospelfest in April. Jacob Whitney Owen Pickette ‘18 admirably handled LinBy William McCormack ‘18 Panel Staff
A Tribute to Graduating Senior Artists
Continued from Front Page as singers in the B-Flats, Belmont Hill’s res...and percussion thunders as the violins ident a capella guys. Clair, Themelis, Shah, continue their tremolo: it’s Mike Armstrong Knowlton, and Rush are all in the Flats; so and Scott Jackson! “Third in command” of are Dan Zakon, Jacob Whitney, Phil Bailey, the orchestra, Mike’s night of performance and Will Ryan. The boys will sing for their ends with the stunt piece, but Scott’s night fellow men tonight. Among them, Will enhas just begun. Scott will play for the Jazz joys the spotlight with the Flats, but he also Band and Jazz Combo too, a stalwart on the has experience behind the scenes, directdrums as always. Scott isn’t the only drum- ing the tech crew for many a theater promer in this arbitrary arts community; versa- duction. You all saw Phil tear up the stage tile Gus Lamb boasts drum skills to go along at the senior talent show, singing Chris with his ukulele prowess and his presence in Brown’s “With You” alongside the clearly the theater, where he shone in Of Mice and very multi-talented Gus Lamb. Phil and Men (alongside Jackson!). Speaking of the Gus shared the stage with the seniors of the senior-directed play: even months after the Rock Band, which included Clair, Knight, show, those who had the privilege of being Jackson, Kaneb, Cam Hall, and Mack Perin the audience can still sense the powerful ry. Mack and Cam have made their presinnocence of Seamus Clair’s character, Len- ences felt at Coffee Houses; Kaneb is also nie Small. Bennett Rush’s southern drawl, a frequent flier. Everyone knew Andrew Sebastian Themelis’s fiery disposition, and could play a mean fiddle, but who knew he Marshall Knight’s cold rationality still ring had a voice like silk? All the residents of true to audiences as we reflect on the gradu- this Senior Haven will revel in it for a long ating seniors’ final official production. The time to come. And speaking of the Coffee residents of this Senior Haven ooh and ahh at House, it was here that Armin compoundthe new members of their thespian commu- ed his indelible and unique impact on the nity. And of course, nothing would have been BH arts. Not just Armin; all of these artists possible without the senior directors, Varun dramatically changed our community and Shah and Peter Knowlton. Shah is a veteran our Belmont Hill experience for the better. We’ll miss our guys as they move of the tech booth, and Knowlton has himself starred in a number of BH theater produc- on to bigger and better things. May they astions. Nearly all of the cast members double cend in peace. ☐
Executive Editor Arnav Prasad ‘18 Arts Editor Austin Kwoun ‘18 Sports Editor Thomas McEvoy ‘19 Photo Editors Duncan Grant ‘18 Donovan Payne ‘18 Back Page Editors Lawson Morris ‘19 Leighton Dolan ‘19
Editors-in-Chief Ishaan Prasad ‘18 William McCormack ‘18
Faculty Advisors David Hegarty Juliette Zener
Copy Editors John Markis ‘18 Richie Kendall ‘19
News Editor Charlie Donahue ‘19
Assistant Editors Chetan Shukla ‘20 Jack Weldon ‘20 Nick Daley ‘19 Charlie Booth ‘19 Matt Goguen ‘19
Opinion Editor Gavin Colbert ‘18 Online Editor Matt Smith ‘19 Graphics Editor Bennett Morris ‘18
The Panel, founded in 1953, is the official school newspaper of the Belmont Hill and Winsor schools. The Panel is the voice of the student body. We publish articles that are of consequence to the students, as well as the school communities. The views expressed in The Panel belong solely to the authors and editors and do not necessarily represent the student body, faculty or administration of either school. Any comment about the content should be addressed directly to the editors. The Panel encourages responsible opinion in the form of Letters to the Editor. We reserve the right to edit all submissions for length and content. Copyright 2013 The Panel. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission of the Editor-in-Chief. Published by the Belmont Printing Co., Belmont, MA 02478.
Belmont Hill Arts
Jun e 5 , 2 0 1 7
Pa g e 1 1
Belmont Hill Actors Shine in Sister Act: A Divine Musical All
pictures
by
Adam
Richins
By Theo Why ‘18 Staff Writer
All photos by Adam Richins
Owen Pickette ‘18
Curtiss, Joey, and TJ performing (Peter Knowlton ‘17, Donavan Payne ‘18, and Theo Why ‘18) “When I Find my Baby” during the Thursday night dress rehearsal for Sister Act
This spring, members of the Dana seeks help from the police, specifically ous showstoppers from the Belmont of sisterhood, a subject that strongHall and Belmont Hill Theater depart- Officer Eddie Souther (Owen Pickette Hill boys, including “When I Find My ly resonated with both the Dana cast ments put together Sister Act: A Divine ‘18). Being a witness to the crime, De- Baby”, a number contrasting hilari- and audience. Crowd favorites inMusical by Bill and Cheri Steinkell- loris is hidden away at the “safest place ously dark lyrics with an upbeat tune cluded “Fabulous Baby,” “Take Me to ner and composed by Alan Menken. in Philly”, the sister’s convent. Unfortu- and tempo starring Peter Knowlton, “I Heaven,” “Sunday Morning Fever,” The show starred Dana senior Ellease nately, Deloris is faced with only more Could be That Guy”, a ballad of hope and, of course, the bittersweet melCreer as Deloris Van Cartier, a sassy, challenges as the head of the convent, and lost opportunity sung by Owen ody of “Sister Act” that effectively vivacious, up-and-coming Philadelphia Mother Superior (Meaghan Robichaud), Pickette, and “Lady in the Long Black left numerous Dana students across club singer turned impromptu sister of does not condone of her rowdy antics Dress”, a ridiculous romantic R&B duet all grades in tears as they reminisced the Holy Order of the Little Sisters of and extravagant music. Nevertheless, performed by comic-relief henchmen, over their years together as both a Our Mother of Perpetual Faith. After Deloris would inspire the sisters of the Joey and TJ played (respectively) by community of students and sisters. witnessing a murder committed by her convent to strive for spiritual freedom Donavan Payne ‘18 and Theo Why ‘18. Sister Act: A Divine Musical was criminal boyfriend, Curtiss (played by and stand strong in the face of adversity. However, the show shone performed at Bardwell Theater on Friday, our own Peter Knowlton ‘17), Deloris The musical featured numer- brightest when focusing on the bonds April 12th and Saturday, April 13th. ☐
2017 Senior Talent Show Impresses
Schoolhouse Rock Live! Excites Kraft Theater Audience
ture calisthenics; perhaps that might have pushed him over the edge of a winning act. Then, out of the blue, the crowd rose as Starring Form II student Ryan Cannistraro as By Owen Pickette ‘18 “300 Violin Orchestra” blared over the loudThe atmosphere was electric in the Tom, a teacher worried about his first day on Staff Writer Hamilton Chapel as students and fac- speakers, prepared to witness either the pinnathe job, the show is about a group of iconic ulty alike eagerly anticipated the start of cle of human achievement or its rock bottom. Schoolhouse Rock Live! was a Schoolhouse Rock characters emerging from Nate Miller stepped center stage, resounding success, featuring classic Tom’s television to boost his confidence with the third annual Senior Talent Show. The wielding a water bottle half-filled; what Schoolhouse Rock hits such as “I’m Just a songs and dances about different school judges’ panel, boasting esteemed educawas a music stand moments before became Bill” and “Conjunction Junction.” Directed by subjects. Singing and dancing with confidence tors like Mr. Leonardis, Mr. DiResta, Dr. a platform for a moment to end all mo- Ms. Robison and Mr. DiResta, the show Tift, and Mr. Schneider, settled into their and enthusiasm, ments. Nate flipped, the bottle landed, and faced huge adversity when low seats as Peter Tamasi stepped onto the stage. the cast The first act of the evening was a the Hamilton Chapel erupted in wake of his numbers at auditions had the fitting and memorable one. Armin Thomas victory. The football team’s hype machine left the directors performed for the last time, putting forth a kept churning as Will Stonestreet and Ray scrambling for sensitive and articulate rendition of Fried- Hunt stepped to the stage, the former carry- actors. rich Chopin’s Ballade No. 1, Op. 23. Though ing his paints and his brushes with his muse the piece ate up a considerable chunk of in tow. Stonestreet’s body painting act was time and logistically complicated the morn- completed to the Killers’ Human, and by ing, nobody seemed to mind; the applause the end of their show, Ray had emblazoned was thunderous, an echo in the Chapel on his chest 29-19, the final score of the that signalled the end of a musical dynasty. football team’s fall defeat of St. Sebastian’s. If Stoney and Ray’s performance proNext, Cam Hall, Seamus Clair, Marshall vided something of a throwback to the fall Knight, Mack Perry, Scott Jackson, and Ansports season, Dan Zakon and Jamie Feinberg drew Kaneb (a.k.a. the Upper School Rock brought it to a level of Jurassic proportions. Band) gave an impassioned and basically Whistling the Jurassic Park theme song with unintelligible performance of “Come on Eia dramatic dinosaur-conflict backdrop, they leen,” which, in their defense, nobody actubrought a new creativity to the Senior Talally knows the words to. Kaneb stayed on ent Show. The Show turned to The Ukulele stage and was joined by Gus Lamb (drums) Club to finish the morning with a bang, and and Sebastian Themelis (piano) for the Zac Gus Lamb and Phil Bailey did exactly that. Brown Band’s “I Play the Road.” Kaneb’s Their rousing rendition of Chris Brown’s E v e n t u a l l y, vocal reminiscence about his daughter was “With You” plucked at ukulele and heart- they managed moving, and the performance blew away strings alike. Bailey’s harmonies brought to rally a group both the crowd and the judges. As an auaudience tears to many an eye, and Gus showed us that of students willing dience member, the trio’s showing was comhumming their to put their pelling and easy to appreciate. More of an his talents stretched far beyond the drums. hearts and souls into putting on the best favorites right along with them. Mrs. Kaplan In the end, Kaneb, Lamb, and Theme- possible show. “It was challenging to get a designed a stunning raised set with various acquired taste was the next act, a solo perlis not only played the road; they played cast to do a musical review in the middle fun props and set pieces to go along with formed by Gifford Metz. Gifford soldiered everyone else, too, and took home the Se- school,” said Mr. DiResta. “But they did an the intricate backdrop. Schoolhouse Rock through the lyrics to cult song “All Star,” but nior Talent Show trophy. Congratulations awesome job, and it was heartening to see the Live! was an excellent close to the Belmont sang them over the back track of fellow cult to all the performers and thank you to the effort they all put in.” Despite a rocky start, Hill theater season, leaving everyone who song “Wake Me Up.” The audience reveled judges and to Peter, our gracious host! ☐ the cast managed to give Belmont Hill one of saw the show excited to see what shows can in his uniqueness and applauded deftly. The performance notably lacked Gifford’s signaits most exciting musicals in recent memory. come to life in the Kraft Theater next fall. ☐ By Austin Kwoun ‘18 Panel Staff
Pa g e 1 2
Matricul ation List
Th e Pan el
Senior Destinations As of June 1
Jack Ablon..............................................................................Colgate University Tejas Agnihotri............................................................................Trinity College Michael Armstrong.................................................................Williams College Philip Bailey ...........................................................University of San Francisco James Bell..............................................................................Dartmouth College Drew Bowser.............................................................................Amherst College Matthew Bracken..................................................................Colgate University James Cardichon..........................................University of Southern California John Paul Champa..................................................................Brown University Seamus Clair...............................................................................Kenyon College David Conforti..................................................................New York University Robert Cronin..............................................................................Trinity College Warren Cross...............................................................................Babson College Alexander Czarnecki..........................................................Harvard University Evan Daddario..............................................................St. Lawrence University Jack Daley.............................................................................Harvard University Nicholas Delhome...........................................................University of Virginia James Feinberg..........................................................................Pomona College Jason Fischman.......................................................................Brown University Peter Flaherty..............................................................College of the Holy Cross Jonathan Folsom...............................................................Saint Anselm College Henry Forcier..............................................................Northwestern University Zach Geddes......................PG Phillips Andover, then Georgetown University Cameron Gordon......................................Washington University in St. Louis Owen Greenwood..........................................................................Bates College Daniel Griffin.................................................................Georgetown University Henry Griffin...................................................Washington and Lee University Cameron Hall..........................................................................Davidson College Bradley Hart.........................................................................Dartmouth College Brendan Hennessey..................................................................UMass Amherst Sam Hesler............................................Interim Year, then Dartmouth College William Hintlian...................................................................Cornell University Raymond Hunt....................................................................Harvard University Scott Jackson..................................................................................Colby College Robert Jahrling............................................................................Yale University Andrew Kaneb...................................................................Princeton University Christopher Kingston.................................................................PG Hill School Marshall Knight.........................................................................Tufts University Peter Knowlton........................................................................Williams College Alexander Kurtin..........................................................................Colby College
Gus Lamb................................................................................Skidmore College Connor Laracey.......................................................University of Notre Dame Benjamin London....................................................................Tufts University Kyle Maxwell.........................................................................Tulane University Jimmy Melican........................................................................Amherst College Lebanos Mengistu........................................................................Bates College Gifford Metz........................................................................Dartmouth College Nathaniel Miller....................................................University of Pennsylvania Henry Moukheiber....................................................Northeastern University Cole Nagahama.........................................................College of the Holy Cross Jack Neely.................................................................................Pomona College Peter O’Connell......................................................................Bowdoin College Devin O’Donovan.........................................................PG Cheshire Academy Matthew O’Leary.........................................................Wake Forest University Christian O’Neill..............................Interim Year, then Princeton University Mohammed Osman..........................................................Stanford University Tomas Paris...........................................................................Haverford College McAlister Perry........................................Washington University in St. Louis Hunter Present...............................................Georgia Institute of Technology Evan Ricci....................................................................................Boston College Brendan Rocha...........................................................................Trinity College Bennett Rush..............................................................................Boston College William Ryan...................................................................Columbia University Varun Shah...............................................................................Tufts University Patrick Shea...............................................................College of the Holy Cross Zachary Shpilner.........................................................Georgetown University John Sommers........................................................................Colorado College William Stonestreet...........................................................Dartmouth College Peter Tamasi............................................................................Williams College Brian Tanabe......................................................................Stanford University Sebastian Themelis...............................................................Boston University Armin Thomas..........................................................................Yale University Julien Toulotte.............................................................................Union College Robert Warming..........................................................Georgetown University Jacob Whitney..........................................................................Tufts University Ryan Williams................................................................................Interim Year Robert Williamson.....................................................................................MIT Bret Willis...............................................................................Skidmore College Daniel Zakon................................................................University of Michigan