The Benjamin School Buccaneer Magazine - Spring 2020

BUCCANEER SPRING 2020

THE

The Magazine Of The Benjamin School

Volume XVIII

TOM REID, INTERIM HEAD OF SCHOOL

THE BUCCANEER Marti Lotman ’06 — Managing Editor Dr. John Peruggia — Copy Chief

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Christine Magee Photography Tracey Benson Photography Erica Sousa

PHOTO SUBMISSIONS Susan Bickel, Nick Crisafi, Jessy Fulford Padon ’01, Jeaneen Jones

ADVANCEMENT OFFICE STAFF Jessy Fulford Padon ’01 — Director of Marketing Marti Lotman ’06 — Publications & Communications Manager Rhonda Thomas — Web Manager Juan Carlos Fanjul ’93 — Chief Development Officer Pamela Ha-Stevenson — Development Database and Donor Services Manager Sheena Wilber — Director of Annual Giving and Special Events Jenna Wittbold ’07 — Alumni Relations and Special Events Manager

Contents THE BUCCANEER | VOLUME XVIII

Letter From the Interim Head of School....2 Q&A With the Incoming Head of School.....3 Campus Features.........................................................4 ‘Marshall’ Cultivates Seeds of Learning, Stewardship..............................................................6 MS Social Studies Curriculum Examines History-Changing Decisions of Ordinary People.....................................................7

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WOW Curriculum Teaches Simple Solutions for BIG Emotions............................8 Benjamin’s International Program Offers Immersive Experience for Students......10

Faculty Spotlight: Lower School Nurses... 11

Students, Faculty, Alumni Unite Behind Dorian Relief Efforts....................... 12

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Middle School Arts Chair Nancy McAllister Harnesses the Power of Shoes.................... 15 Celebrating The Arts.............................................21 United States Air Force Band Performs in Benjamin Hall...........................22 Sports Highlights......................................................27

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Alumni Focus...............................................................32

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THE BUCCANEER

Letter From the Interim

Head of School

The day in early November when I sat down to write this article, I had just come in from the football field. It was sunny and 82 degrees. I recalled that on that same day a year earlier, I had begun flooding a field to make a rink at the New Hampshire school where I was Interim Head. At the time, I had no thoughts of The Benjamin School and limited knowledge of the school itself. Five months later, I was named Interim Head. Now, a year later and four months into the school year, it seems like a good time to pause and reflect, and to share some of my impressions of The Benjamin School, while I can still profess some level of objectivity.

Interim Head of School Tom Reid

I read many school alumni magazines and am always intrigued by the topics and themes each school chooses to share. While all have a primary purpose of informing alumni and parents about school life, there is also a dual purpose of serving to market the school to others. The stories, interviews, and profiles indicate what matters to the school. When I read the Table of Contents for this issue of The Buccaneer, I was struck by the range of topics. The variety and richness of our programs are obvious, and we are proud to share some of what happens on campus each day. For me, however, thinking of how I have come to know the School, the article about WOW captures the essence of the School and the reason The Benjamin School is second to none. Most logically, a Head of School looking to tout the success of the institution would write of college placement, scholarships, National Merit and AP recognition, the success of teams, and the quality of theater productions. I could certainly do that; we have eight National Merit semifinalists this year and six Commended students. The athletic letters of commitment for this year’s class include Brown and Dartmouth. The performance of the Three Musketeers by our thespians was a highlight of the fall, and every varsity team qualified for district, regional, or state-level playoffs. All are indicators of the quality and breadth of our programs, and the quality and diversity of our Upper School students. Yet, it is the WOW article I suggest you read to know and appreciate TBS. Now, to use modern lingo, I must announce a spoiler alert. I am going to quote and paraphrase a few passages from the article, so if you prefer reading without introduction, please feel free to just stop here and go to Page 8 to enjoy the piece. You might be surprised to learn that what happens in the Middle and Upper School each day is also experienced by the WOW students in age-appropriate ways. They have math and physical science, hands-on activities, writing (and handwriting practice), and foreign language study. Our WOWers are busy. All of that learning is undergirded by a focus on socialemotional learning (SEL). I believe SEL is the foundation of all learning and a key to academic success — truly to lifelong success. The core of the SEL work is tied to five competencies: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision making. Learning these competencies helps children “build resilience and helps them know they can handle any situation that comes their way,” including anything from a playground spat to Upper School high-stakes testing. Since the Benjamins launched the school in 1960, we have certainly broadened the curriculum and added grades. But as the WOW article makes clear, at the core, the School remains the same, focused on a strong academic grounding and a commitment to the whole child. In Mr. Benjamin’s words, “Academic excellence is of paramount importance. But, in addition, the School is intensely concerned with the total development of the student — his or her character, personality, and outlook on life.” That commitment continues, and it begins at the beginning with SEL in our Worlds of Wonder program. I hope you enjoy this issue of The Buccaneer. Tom Reid P.S. My rink worked and provided hours of skating and hockey, and even more hours of shoveling and flooding (for me and a few devotees). 2

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Q&A WITH THE INCOMING HEAD OF SCHOOL | THE BUCCANEER

Q&A

With the

incoming

Head of School

Dave Faus Dave Faus, Benjamin’s incoming Head of School effective July 1, 2020, sat down with The Buccaneer for a short-answer interview to give the Benjamin community a glimpse into his personality. Faus joins Benjamin from St. Paul’s School in Maryland where he served as Headmaster. He holds a master’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania and has served nearly 40 years in independent school education.

Q: What is your motto?

A: “We are what we repeatedly do.” — Aristotle

Q: Where is your favorite travel destination?

A: Harvey Cedars, New Jersey (Long Beach Island).

Q: Who should play you in a biopic?

A: Tom Hanks — he’s great in every role!

Q: What is your favorite book?

Q: Which living person do you most admire?

A: Members of the “Greatest Generation;” the same generation as my father.

Q: What talent would you most like to have?

A: The Pillars of the Earth and The Elements of Teaching.

A: The power to heal. Q: Which words or phrases do you most overuse?

A: “Right.”

Q: What is next on your bucket list? A: Traveling to the coast of Ireland. 3

Campus Features

CAMPUS FEATURES | THE BUCCANEER

‘Changemakers’

Shape Benjamin Community

changemaker [ cheynj–mey–ker ] noun

1 a : a person who identifies a problem, asks the right questions to formulate a solution, shapes it into a vision, and carves a new action-oriented path to make their world a better place b : a “big picture,” mission-driven thinker fueled by purposeful action, who understands the impact of change and the consequences of inertia See also: Member of The Benjamin School community

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THE BUCCANEER | CAMPUS FEATURES

‘Marshall’ Cultivates Seeds of Learning, Stewardship

“The tree is a living monument to a school like no other.” “That’s when I had a crazy thought of mirroring the growth of a tree in learning with students. Why not intentionally scale the lessons progressively with the learning gains of the student? A tree would be great to center all subjects around,” said Myers. “The tree will take you as far as you are willing to go. It will help teach you counting and then calculus when you are ready. It all depends on the intentions and perseverance of the learner. By reviewing the same tree with different learning goals, and from different angles, students gain a deeper appreciation for the learning and a forged bond of respect with their environment,” said Myers.

A tree, according to Upper School Social Studies teacher Dr. Hope Myers, can teach you whatever subject you are willing to learn. This philosophy spurred Myers to spearhead a new cross-divisional project at The Benjamin School. “Marshall,” a small pine tree fondly named after School Founder Marshall Benjamin, was planted on the Upper School campus by the Kindergarten Class of ’32. “This project is a natural extension of Mr. Benjamin’s decision to build the school around these great trees; yet this time we are building the children’s learning around them. I think Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin would have loved this. A new tree for new stories at this amazing school,” said Myers. The goal is for students to return to their tree over the span of their entire career at Benjamin and beyond. Kindergarten students will begin their exploration by measuring and tracking the height and diameter of their tree using nonstandard units of measurement. Using a piece of string, they will match the string’s length to their tree. 6

“In first grade, they will return to their tree to use standard forms of measurement (i.e., inches and centimeters). The tree will offer them an opportunity to use their new learning and realize the limitations of it. How can you find the diameter of a tree when cutting it in half will kill it? Here comes ‘pi’ to the rescue once they reach our Middle School and begin venturing into algebra,” said Myers. All of the data will be recorded and kept for the students until they enter the Upper School. “We can then discuss the environmental impact their one tree can have on their immediate world. We will use their years of data to track the total carbon sequestration from Marshall and see the enormous impact one tree has had. As the child’s learning matures into the Upper School, so will the tree’s lessons,” said Myers. Myers’ idea began in the woods during the Florida Forest Teacher Tour in northern Florida. She studied pine trees and how to scale-up a lesson in forestry to meet the learning needs of students in kindergarten through AP course levels in high school.

The project is funded by the Florida Sustainable Forestry Initiative-State Implementation Committee. “I’m so grateful for their generosity! I am so blessed to work at Benjamin, because Dr. Sheehan, Mrs. Glogower, and the kindergarten team are master teachers who have leaned into this project and made it their own. They are doing the heavy lifting of teaching and learning that is happening in kindergarten and for our future TBS Class of ’32,” said Myers. The long-term plan is to have a named tree for every incoming kindergarten class. The tree for next year’s class will be named in honor of Nancy Benjamin. “There’s so much Florida history wrapped around a pine tree; I hope they keep searching for more,” said Myers.

CAMPUS FEATURES | THE BUCCANEER

MS Social Studies Curriculum Examines History-Changing Decisions of Ordinary People Guest Author: Anne Franzen, Middle School Social Studies

Students in eighth grade social studies classes examine the decisions of ordinary people in World War II whose choices affected the lives of others — and history itself. Through this study of people and artifacts, the Middle School Social Studies department aims to teach beyond memorization of dates and figures, facilitating discussions and helping students develop their own lines of inquiry. Adding deliberate decision-making education into the curriculum in the Middle School is turning our students into changemakers today and in the future. In Middle School Social Studies, a focus on the 12 Benjamin values helps students to evaluate decisions made throughout history. We teach students to increase empathy and advocacy for others, while examining and reducing bias and hate. Working with the Center for Creative Education has helped to integrate experiential learning into history. Students are using the new Maglio STEM Center to create projects that deepen their understanding of history; they create projects that celebrate ordinary heroes of history. In sixth grade, these could be members of students’ own families who made the brave decision to come to America

for a new start. In seventh grade, students create projects to celebrate the heroes and events of the Civil Rights Movement. In eighth grade, students create monuments to the group known as the “Righteous Among the Nations,” ordinary, non-Jewish citizens who stood up against the events of the Holocaust because they knew it was wrong. Adding anti-bias curricula to the history curriculum allows students to carefully examine all sources used in research and ordinary life. Students learn how to discern bias within sources and within themselves. In particular, students learn about “confirmation bias,” the tendency of humans to only seek evidence to prove their point. Failure to look at opposing viewpoints gives an inaccurate view of history. What does the story of the trial of Socrates look like from Cato’s perspective?

attitudes students can readily observe in their own lives. Students then explore a historical case study, such as the Holocaust, and analyze how those patterns of human behavior may have influenced the choices individuals made in the past — to participate, stand by, or stand up — in the face of injustice and, eventually, mass murder. Students then examine how the history they studied continues to influence our world today, and they consider how they might choose to participate in bringing about a more humane, just, compassionate world. Our scope and sequence promotes students’ historical understanding, critical thinking, empathy, and social-emotional learning.” Students of today can easily browse the internet for facts and dates from history. They cannot, however, just click their way to understanding the thought process behind meaningful decisions that could alter the course of history. Benjamin Middle School students are given the opportunity to learn about those decisions, the chance to empathize with the decision maker, and use those values learned to make their own decisions in the future.

Teachers have also implemented the Facing History and Ourselves curriculum into their daily lessons, taking an in-depth look at the role of social justice in history. This curriculum teaches students that they have a voice and that this voice is to be used to speak up for those who cannot. According to the Facing History website, “The journey begins by examining common human behaviors, beliefs, and

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THE BUCCANEER | CAMPUS FEATURES

WOW Curriculum

Teaches Simple Solutions for BIG Emotions Jones says research shows that social-emotional learning leads to better behavior and improved academic achievement. Each WOW classroom comes equipped with a library corner that doubles as a space where students are encouraged to go if they are having big emotions that seem unmanageable.

Continued from Page 7.

Ms. Murray works with a student to identify feelings through the use of “Feeling Buddies.”

In any given week, WOW students are exposed to three foreign languages, hands-on STEM activities, handwriting practice, math, and social studies. But the lessons students are absorbing in the Worlds of Wonder program are not all academic. WOW lead teacher Jeaneen Jones says a large focus of the WOW curriculum is devoted to social-emotional learning (SEL). “Social-emotional learning helps children learn about feelings, getting along with others, decision making, and handling difficult situations,” says Jones. Jones says this modality helps children learn empathy and develop relationships with other students and their teachers. 8

At its core, SEL is the process of emotional regulation and is marked by five core competencies: selfawareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision making. Jones says Pre-K3 teachers Mrs. Wilder, Ms. Murray, Mrs. Shulas, and herself, model and teach SEL skills throughout the day and incorporate them into everything they do. “WOW is a year of rapid growth, so it’s important to support these skills in order for students to be successful and comfortable listening and learning moving forward. These basic skills help children build resilience and help them know they can handle any situation that comes their way,” says Jones.

“They are asked to take deep breaths, also known as belly breathing. The teacher may then engage with them quietly, saying something like, ‘You really miss your mommy. I see you are having a rough time coming to school this morning.’ It is so important to acknowledge their feelings. It usually takes about five minutes of self-regulation and they are ready to go to free play centers,” says WOW teacher Shulas. Shulas says that after just the first few weeks of school, students know they can go to the library corner to handle big emotions and calm themselves down. Murray says the goal is to change their inner state independently by incorporating different techniques that help them manage their emotions. “Once they’re feeling calm and ready to leave the space, we love to hug them and remind them they are safe and loved,” says Murray. “Feeling Buddies” are also a staple in WOW classrooms and are used as a tool for students to determine how they are feeling, and to find the feeling buddy whose face matches theirs.

CAMPUS FEATURES | THE BUCCANEER

WOW students explore emotions with “Feeling Buddies.” Mrs. Shulas mirrors the scared faces of her “Feeling Buddies.”

“Once they’ve found the buddy that ‘feels’ the same as they do, they are taught to sit and hold it tight while taking their deep belly breaths,” says Wilder. “The buddies teach them that they’re not alone with their feelings and that it’s OK to have big emotions because the buddies feel that way sometimes too!” Wilder says the Feeling Buddies and classroom safe space are just two of the many ways students are learning to manage and process their emotions. According to Wilder, at this age, students are often unaware that their behavior and actions affect their friends’ emotions. “We tell the students to look at their friends’ facial expressions when they’re upset to determine how their actions made their friends feel and to understand that everyone has feelings,” says Wilder.

She says students are frequently reminded throughout the day to verbalize how they feel by using their words and “big kid voices.” Murray says she loves hearing those “big voices” and watching the year unfold as students learn to express themselves. She says WOW is a magical age where the smallest things can make you smile and laugh. “It’s a contagious feeling that impacts you as a teacher. They remind us how to laugh at the small things and love with all your heart. What I love most, and I know the other WOW teachers do too, is that at any moment of the day, they come over to give you a big hug or to tell you they love you. As a teacher, you already feel lucky to work with such bright and imaginative minds, but that alone makes you feel like you’re on top of the world.”

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THE BUCCANEER | CAMPUS FEATURES

Benjamin’s International Program

Offers Immersive Experience for Students Guest Author: Xiao Liu, Senior Intern, Marketing Department

For international students, studying abroad brings exciting and unique opportunities such as living in a new place, being immersed in a distinctive culture, learning advanced courses, and broadening perspectives of the world. All of these experiences occur as part of The Benjamin School’s international student program. The program, which was started in 2014 by former Head of School, Mr. Robert Goldberg, and Director of Student Services, Dr. Amy Taylor, has accepted students from Brazil, Canada, China, the Czech Republic, England, and Japan. Although many of these students do not speak English as their native language, they are able to adapt to a new environment and establish friendships with American students. Senior Zixuan (Jason) Chen, who comes from Beijing and has been studying at Benjamin for three years, said he has met many good friends at Benjamin. “They take care of me, we hang out together, and play sports together,” said Chen. 10

Benjamin fosters an environment that provides opportunities for students to explore interests and helps them work hard to reach their goals. Many international students actively participate in sports, including basketball, lacrosse, cross country, and track and field, and other school activities such as the chamber ensemble, dance ensemble, chorus, and drama club. They also become members of the National Honor Society and Cum Laude Society, and serve as club officers and event planners. While some students move to America with their families, others choose to live with local host families who provide them with lodging, meals, and an excellent way to learn about American culture and traditions by celebrating holidays and watching football games together. While the transition can be difficult for international students who only return home once or twice a year, Benjamin faculty members keep in touch with the students’ host parents to period-

ically check in and organize special events to make them feel included and part of a larger school community. As a member of the Class of 2019, Jinyu Guo was very moved by a special luncheon the School prepared for students to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival, a Chinese holiday similar to Thanksgiving. “I want to thank the School for being so considerate and hosting this event for us. It really makes me feel like I’m home,” Guo told The Pharcyde newspaper in an interview. Benjamin’s rigorous curriculum also enables international students to further explore a particular field of interest. The college preparatory curriculum helps prepare international students to excel at many of the top colleges in the country. American students also have the chance to gain a global perspective by getting to know their classmates from different parts of the world.

CAMPUS FEATURES | THE BUCCANEER

Faculty Spotlight: Lower School Nurses

Nurses Jodi Benedetto and Karen Velinsky are staples in the Lower School office, outfitted in scrubs and smiles. The Buccaneer chatted with the dynamic duo about their roles as part of the medical staff at Benjamin.

Jodi Benedetto, LPN Q: How long have you worked for TBS? A: Six years.

Karen Velinsky, RN Q: How long have you worked for TBS? A: I have worked at Benjamin for 17 years.

Q: What is your favorite thing about being on the medical

Q: What is your favorite thing about being on the medical

staff at Benjamin?

A: The kiddies, and my co-workers in the Lower School office.

Q: What made you want to pursue nursing? A: All I ever wanted to be since childhood was a nurse. Q: What’s one thing that people would be surprised to know about you?

A: I can write backward in cursive. Q: What activities do you enjoy when you’re not at school?

A: Spending time with family and friends and eating great food.

staff at Benjamin?

A: I love taking care of the kids, talking with them, and watching them grow from year to year.

Q: What made you want to pursue nursing? A: I knew I always wanted to help people and I loved science, so the two just sort of went together.

Q: What’s one thing that people would be surprised to know about you?

A: I have an Etsy Store. I sell handmade photo albums. Q: What activities do you enjoy when you’re not at school? A: I love crafting, especially with paper. 11

THE BUCCANEER | CAMPUS FEATURES

Students, Faculty, Alumni Unite

Behind Dorian Relief Efforts The Bahamas reached out to a doctor in Fort Lauderdale about needing more hands on deck. Greer, who is also a pilot, helped with aid work in Haiti after the earthquake in 2010.

Benjamin students load shipping container with supplies for The Bahamas.

Hurricane Dorian was still thrashing The Bahamas, sitting over the island chain for an inordinate length of time, when the Benjamin community began to spring into action. Lindsey Drevins ’08, Tim Drevins ’08, and Alexandra Devine ’08 quickly began brainstorming ways to help their friend and fellow alumna, Katie Jervis ’08, and her family in Freeport, who were being lashed by the storm. Though her home remained standing, her neighbors on the island were not as fortunate. With the help of Grant Gyland ’07 and Lindy Bradford ’11, the group raised more than $5,000 in five days to purchase supplies and textiles that were immediately delivered to Freeport by boat and plane. Jervis met the deliveries personally and distributed them to people in serious need. Lindy Bradford coordinated a plane drop-off to bring supplies directly to Jervis in Freeport. With the help of Benjamin parents and alumni, more than $15,000 was ultimately raised to purchase supplies, also taken directly to Jervis on the ground in Freeport to disburse to the people most in need.

“Tropic Ocean Airways was running a few seaplane flights over, and the Bahamian government cleared me for relief efforts. I was stationed at Hope Town Volunteer Fire Rescue Command Center for the duration of my time there,” said Greer. “A lot of the reports I received said that some of the relief items were just sitting on the docks — adding to the debris and pollution,” said Greer. Greer returned to the Bahamas six weeks after Dorian hit and set up a patient-centered medical home that monitors chronic illness, provides acute care, and focuses on mental health. Director of Student Services Susan Poncy, who helped coordinate the School’s relief efforts led by citizen activists, said many alumni reached out offering their help. Lisa Interlandi, a current parent and former Benjamin student, donated a generator, cookstove, and additional supplies to the effort. Adrienne Propp ’13 called to offer her help from afar and shipped

Lindy Bradford ’11 joins a rescue mission to The Bahamas.

relief items down from the School’s collection. Jennifer Porter ’07 took two pallets of hurricane relief items to the collection warehouse to add to Benjamin’s donations. Administrative Assistant Ami Reece ’86 was also involved in relief efforts in conjunction with Operation 300. Poncy said all told, the School sent two large box trucks filled with relief supplies to hangars at Witham Airfield in Stuart, Florida. The School worked

“Our efforts are not yet over,” said Lindsey Drevins. Taylor Aguirre ’11 and Hattie Reedy ’12 also collected more than $6,000 that was used toward supplies. Dr. Robert Greer’s ’01 name came up when an overwhelmed nurse in 12

Katie Jervis ’08, a Bahamian resident, helps distribute supplies to her neighbors.

CAMPUS FEATURES | THE BUCCANEER

Benjamin lower school students collect aid for The Bahamas. Len Lindahl ’89, Lenny Lindahl ’21, Thomas Anspach ’89, and William Anspach assist with relief efforts.

under the leadership of Matthew Kuntz and a grassroots group of civilians who used their own aircraft and boats to get the items delivered quickly. Their first delivery was made the day after the storm left The Bahamas. The group worked closely with U.S. and Bahamian Customs, the U.S. Coast Guard, and the Bahamian Defense Force, to make deliveries in Scotland Key, Marsh Harbour, Treasure Cay, Grand Cay, Freeport, West End Village, Old Bahama Bay, and Green Turtle. They took their own security personnel and, working with teams on the ground, were able to get supplies into the hands of people in the towns who have less accessibility. Dozens of other alumni participated in relief efforts — from collecting supplies to donation drives, to serving as boots on the ground. Among them were the following: • Seneca Moss ’95 helped raise more than $1 million and orchestrated an enormous donation relief effort. Moss worked in conjunction with Hope Town Relief Aid to evacuate more than 250 Hope Town residents by sea and air. Pat Kelly ’94 made trips to the West End to provide relief. Kelly says Gunnar Askeland ’96 secured space on the late Chris Cline’s barge and loaded a shipping container for Grand Cay. Ed deMarcellus ’93 was also involved in the effort. • Jack Hill ’93, Owen Buckman ’93, Andre Bourassa ’91, and Brad

Flourney ’91 have all made relief trips to Grand Cay. Clark Beaty ’95 also collected and distributed supplies. • Christian Searcy ’98 coordinated a multi-unit operation to airlift four pallets of water to the western Bahamas and more than 2,500 pounds of supplies to Marsh Harbour. He personally witnessed the U.S. military on the ground at both Marsh Harbour and Treasure Key delivering supplies. In addition, Searcy worked with Winner’s Circle Charities to collect tax-deductible donations to pay for fuel for planes and boats aiding in the humanitarian crisis. •B rooke Grogan, Esq. (Smith ’05) and her law firm, Smith, Gaskill & Shenkman, P.A., organized an Abaco Island Hurricane Relief Collection Drive for necessity and survival items that were shipped to Cooperstown on Great Abaco. •L en Lindahl ’89, Lenny Lindahl ’21, Thomas Anspach ’89, and William Anspach assisted The Bahamas by delivering donated goods to West End (Old Bahama Bay) by boat. •L indy Bradford ’11 took trips to The Bahamas with The Mastroianni Family Foundation, doing rescue missions and bringing more than 250,000 pounds of supplies on more than 150 flights to the many people in need. The Bahamians they have rescued were brought back to Jupiter with little more than the clothes on their backs.

Brooke Grogan ’05 organizes Abaco Islands Relief Drive.

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THE BUCCANEER | CAMPUS FEATURES

Senior Emily Horgen

Wins Marine Conservation Award

Senior Emily Horgen was named the winner of the Loggerhead Marinelife Center (LMC) Blue Hatchling Award, which honors a recipient who has contributed significantly to local marine conservation efforts. Horgen was chosen for the honor from a pool of international applicants. Dr. Bob Ballard, best known for his discovery of the RMS Titanic, presented the Hatchling Award at the 11th annual Loggerhead Marinelife Go Blue Awards Luncheon at the Kravis Center on October 25, 2019. Horgen was recognized for illustrating and publishing a children’s book — in both Mandarin and English — to educate young people at home and abroad about the perils facing sea turtles. The book, Lee the Sea Turtle Swims Free, was created to spread awareness about the importance of sea turtle conservation in China.

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“I have been studying Chinese for eight years and have always loved Chinese culture, so when I started my internship at LMC and began researching areas where sea turtles face threats, China immediately drew my interest,” said Horgen.

“I realized the need for more educational materials in Southern China after researching that sea turtles in the South China Sea are poached for their meat and shells. I traveled to Hainan, China, in the summer of 2018. While I was there, I established a partnership with Dr. Lin, a marinelife professor at Hainan Normal University. With the help of Dr. Lin, my mentor Katie O’Hara at LMC, and my friend Eudora (Xiaohan) Song, who assisted me with the translations, I published my self-written, self-illustrated children’s book in the summer of 2019,” said Horgen. Horgen received a grant of more than $7,000 from the Hong Kong Ocean Park Conservation Foundation to distribute the books to children in China. Horgen said she hopes her book inspires children to protect sea turtles instead of poaching them. After reading the book, the children will fill out a survey that gauges whether reading the book changed their mindset about sea turtle conservation.

CAMPUS FEATURES | THE BUCCANEER

Middle School Arts Chair Nancy McAllister Harnesses the Power of Shoes

Nancy McAllister believes in the power of a pair of shoes. The Middle School Arts Department Chair is bridging the education gap by collecting shoes you no longer want to create opportunities that many need. McAllister has partnered with the nonprofit organization Soles4Souls to collect shoes for students across the globe who can’t attend school because their lack of shoes leaves them vulnerable to disease and death. “We don’t care if you have one shoe, new shoes, wrecked shoes, or cleats. They will repurpose the shoes for someone in need. If they have rubber soles, they can take them and reuse the rubber. They can build facilities out of garbage as well. The process provides many sustainable jobs,” McAllister said. McAllister points out that walking is the primary mode of transportation in many developing nations.

“Young people are being kept home from school because of the fear of disease and death. By collecting shoes for Soles4Souls, we are helping break the cycle of poverty and the education gap,” said McAllister. Since Soles4Souls began in 2006, the organization has distributed more than 35 million pairs of shoes in 127 countries. McAllister, who encourages the entire Benjamin community to become involved, collected more than 2,000 pairs of shoes last year. In her fifth year partnering with the organization, McAllister added socks and backpacks to her drive. “I tell my students to look beyond the Benjamin community and enlist their neighborhoods, reach out to their communities,” McAllister said. Fred German, Coordinator of Transportation and Athletic Operations, recently delivered 900 pairs of shoes

to Miami. According to McAllister, Upper School parent Brian Murphy was also an integral part in the operation. Murphy also assisted in driving shoes down South. Those interested in participating in the drive can drop their old shoes off at any of the divisional offices or in Mrs. McAllister’s room. McAllister said it’s one thing to read the school character traits every Monday morning in assembly, and another to actually live them. “What I love about this project is that it’s giving those abstract traits legs and feet. Our students are learning empathy as they embrace the reality that other people do not have what they have and, literally, cannot go to school because they don’t want to risk their health. It’s an eye-opening experience that is so important for our students.”

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THE BUCCANEER | CAMPUS FEATURES

Titles of Note When I told Ann that we had been asked to write a piece about books we love that had impacted us, she laughed and said something to the effect that given the titles we are likely to choose, people may wonder if we ever have conversations about what we are reading! We do talk books, and though I lean toward nonfiction and she to fiction, we have some favorite titles in common, particularly in children’s books. While I am a book buyer, love bookstores, and search for them whenever we travel, Ann will buy children’s books, but she does not buy fiction. She describes herself as a borrower of fiction, not a buyer. I would suggest that this split approach helps to keep two important community resources viable. Chatham, our permanent home, has a wonderful library and, remarkably, it also has two excellent independent bookstores. We treasure the library and the bookstores.

Tom’s Picks “ I hate it when a book ends too soon.” One book that continues to impact me, though I read it more than 45 years ago, is The Water Is Wide by Pat Conroy. It was later made into the movie Conrack starring Jon Voight. The book was published in 1972 as I was beginning my teaching career. Though our settings — I in the privilege and comfort of Chestnut Hill Academy, and Conroy on an impoverished island off the coast of South Carolina — were worlds apart, I sensed a kindred spirit. With little to no formal preparation for teaching,

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Guest Authors: Mr. Tom Reid and Mrs. Ann Reid

we were both seeking means for connecting with students and inspiring learning. I also picked this title because Conroy became a favorite author. I used The Great Santini in classes and in discussions on leadership, and enjoyed The Prince of Tides. While living in Charleston, we frequently walked the streets captured in Conroy’s books, The Lords of Discipline and South of Broad, and I did not want his last book, A Lowcountry Heart, to end. Ultimately, the professional impact was exceeded by the pure pleasure of reading all the works of a master storyteller. One other book of significant influence, read much more recently, is Doris Kearns Goodwin’s Team of Rivals. I am a former history teacher and continue to read a lot of history. I usually save lengthy tomes (Team of Rivals is about 1,000 pages) for the summer to allow for reading big chunks at a time to avoid losing the flow of the narrative.

“ I have a number of index cards with quotes from the book that I keep in my desk. Some for use in my writing and speaking; some just for comfort and inspiration.” In this case, I did not wait, and Goodwin’s storytelling of Lincoln’s leadership made the book hard to put down each night before I nodded off with it on my chest. The story abounds with examples of Lincoln’s humanness, humility, and humor — all vital to his leadership and the saving of our country from self-destruction. I have a number of index cards with quotes from the book that I keep in my desk. Some for use in my writing and speaking; some just for comfort and inspiration. The book continues to influence my thinking about leaders and leadership.

CAMPUS FEATURES | THE BUCCANEER

Ann’s Picks I love to read. I always have several books on the bedside table, and I also listen to audiobooks in the car. Though I read and listen to a wide variety of books, my favorite genre is historical fiction. Within that area, one of my favorites is To Serve Them All My Days by R.F. Delderfield. The story takes place in England between the wars and follows the career and life of David Powlett-Jones, a history teacher who becomes the head of a British public boarding school (in the U.S. — private). I first read this book before I knew that this career path would mirror ours — maybe somehow I knew or hoped it would. Powlett-Jones faces significant struggles, but the story is filled with moments of great compassion and warmth within his family and with his students. It provides a good picture of the times and the political and social issues of post-WWI England. Importantly, it also is a long book, which I enjoy. I hate it when a book ends too soon. I have read To Serve Them All My Days several times and never wanted it to end. I love to read children’s literature, and I will buy those books! The appeal to me is that there are so many life lessons to be learned and to be reminded of in stories for children. Some of my favorites include Charlotte’s Web,

The Secret Garden, The Hundred Dresses, and The Story of Ferdinand.

“The appeal to me is that there are so many life lessons to be learned and to be reminded of in stories for children.” But one of my all-time favorites is William’s Doll. William is a little boy who loves all sorts of “boy” things, but what he really wants is a doll. His father does not think this is a good idea. In the end, it is his grandmother who gets him the doll, so he can learn to be a good parent! I first read this as a parent, but now that I am a “nana,” I really appreciate the wisdom of William’s grandmother’s gift. Finally, what is most appealing about children’s literature is that you can read it aloud — to a child, a friend, or yourself. As different as our interests and approaches to books are, we have a common love of them and cherish the insights and pleasures great books have added to our lives.

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THE BUCCANEER | CAMPUS FEATURES

8th GRADE Holds Arlington

Memorial Service for Alumnus Jonathan Farmer ’99 Guest Author: Colby Mack, 8th Grade Student On the morning of Thursday, November 7, 2019, the eighth grade had the opportunity to visit Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia. When we arrived, we went straight to the grave of Jonathan Farmer, TBS class of 1999. Students circled around the grave, and we began with a moment of silence. Nathan Anderson read a sonnet about heroism followed by Vice President of Student Council JP Walsh reading a letter written to the eighth grade class from Duncan Farmer, thanking them for their plan to honor his son, Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 (CW2) Jonathan R. Farmer. Alexandra Blount read an original poem about sacrifice followed by Margaret Smith, President of Student Council, reading the obituary for CW2 Farmer. Krish Raja ended the brief ceremony with his original poem about honor and service. During the last moment of silence, I had the opportunity to place an orange and blue flower arrangement on CW2 Farmer’s grave, which will remain until spring. For all the students who participated in the ceremony, we felt honored to be able to recognize the sacrifice of a hero, especially that of a Benjamin alumnus. The entire eighth grade was moved by the ceremony, and understood how lucky we are to have the opportunity to remember him. After the ceremony, we were able to see a funeral of a naval officer, which included a military band and a 21-gun salute. We also took the tram up to see the changing of the guard at The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Somehow we felt that all of these ceremonies were tied together and a fitting tribute for Jonathan Farmer ’99.

TBS Memorial Bench Students become a part of the Benjamin family the minute they step on campus, and their connection to our community continues long after they have crossed the stage at graduation. When we hear of an alumni passing away, we grieve alongside their family, friends, and classmates, and harken back to fond memories of their time at Benjamin. The Benjamin School Alumni Association recognized the need to dedicate a permanent memorial to our alumni. When you visit our upper school campus in Palm Beach Gardens, you will notice a new granite bench erected in memoriam of all our alumni who have passed away. The bench, which has a stunning view of the lake, is a site of reflection. This area may be used as a memorial site at the request of alumni families. It will always serve as a physical marker to remember those who have passed away, as we stand alongside those who love them. 18

CAMPUS FEATURES | THE BUCCANEER

NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY WELCOMES 8 NEW MEMBERS

The National Honor Society welcomed eight new members into The Benjamin School Chapter during the Fall Induction Ceremony. The candlelight ceremony, led by faculty advisor Sara Misselhorn ’90, was held in Benjamin Hall. “What struck me was the breadth and diversity of all the NHS members. From leaders of organizations, to track and volleyball stars, to theatre and band maestros, this group displays a wide variety of interests and passions and talents . . . while all members demonstrate the pillars of NHS, we will hear about the various pathways these new members have taken. Pathways that make each of them truly unique,” said Misselhorn. NHS members are selected by a faculty committee based on their leadership, scholarship, service, and character. Congratulations to fall inductees Jason Blum, Caroline Charles, Jason Chen, Jessica Davis, Phoebe Denenberg, Alexander Goldberg, Alexander Valentini, and transfer member Jill Salach.

8 SENIORS NAMED NATIONAL MERIT SEMIFINALISTS Eight members of the Class of 2020 were recently named National Merit Scholarship Program semifinalists. Seniors Vinny Amato, Ashley Cousin, Emily Horgen, Nicolas Lama, Caroline Moody, James Richardson, Eudora Song, and Tatiana Ziff were identified from a nationwide pool of more than 1.5 million juniors in more than 21,000 high schools who entered the scholarship program by taking the PSAT last fall. The approximately 16,000 semifinalists represent less than 1 percent of U.S. high school seniors. The semifinalists were selected based on their PSAT scores. They were presented with a certificate acknowledging their achievement by Head of Upper School Fletcher Carr during an assembly on October 1, 2019, in Benjamin Hall.

Not pictured: Eudora Song and Tatiana Ziif

In addition to our eight semifinalists, six students were named Commended Scholars for placing in the top 3-4 percent of students from the Class of 2020 who took the PSAT. The students are Christian Baldari, Leslie Berg, Alexandra Denholtz, Kiersten Malmberg, Justin Stohlman, and Michael Yancey. 19

THE BUCCANEER | CAMPUS FEATURES

Annual Traditions

New Student Pizza Party With Dean Peterson

Best Buddies Seek N Treat

8th Grade Washington, D.C. Trip 20

Homecoming Football Game

Buddy Reading

WOW Halloween Parade

6th Grade Wheel

Halloween Parade

Celebrating the Arts

THE BUCCANEER | CELEBRATING THE ARTS

United States AIR FORCE BAND PERFORMS IN BENJAMIN HALL

On October 20, 2019, an audience of more than 700 welcomed The United States Air Force Concert Band and Singing Sergeants to Benjamin Hall for a matinee performance. The event, which was open to the public, featured the USAF band and six Benjamin students in a joint performance on the band’s second number, Okeechobee Paso Doble. The piece was written specifically for the USAF tour and featured Benjamin students Alec Adam on the French horn, Alex Garcia on bass clarinet, Madeleine Haas on trombone, Ella Pierman on flute, Matthew Postman on tuba, and Nichaela Williams on percussion. “Judging from their post-performance expressions, the students had an amazing time,” said Head of Upper School Fletcher Carr. Kindergarten students also participated in the event, decorating place mats for the band to use during a pre-concert luncheon hosted by the School. The band was so touched by the gesture that they took the place mats onstage during the show. Members of the local community and former service members enjoyed the opportunity to attend the performance in Benjamin Hall. The father of veteran Adam Braman, a member of the local community who attended the performance, reached out to Carr to offer his thanks. “It was an absolute honor to be able to attend this event with my son and some very close friends who served in the military. It really makes a person look back and be thankful that we are all Americans and live in this great country,” his email read.

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CELEBRATING THE ARTS | THE BUCCANEER

‘The Three Musketeers’ Upper School Fall Play

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THE BUCCANEER | CELEBRATING THE ARTS

Violins of Hope: Instruments From the Holocaust Travel to Benjamin Hall

Tel Aviv violin maker Amnon Weinstein spent two decades gathering the broken pieces of string instruments from the Holocaust and World War II — instruments that outlived the musicians who played them. Weinstein and his son Avshalom have carried the weight of these stringed instruments and the people who cherished them, dedicating their time to Violins of Hope, a traveling project that showcases their collection of more than 60 restored violins, violas, and cellos.

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of the Dallas Symphony, conducting the concert with members of the New World Symphony. “Our message is that this is not a historical thing. This is a real thing. It’s something that’s out there today. These violins represent the ability of men and women to overcome discrimination and death,” said Levinson. The concert, featuring five sacred string instruments, represented the victory of the human spirit over hatred.

On the morning of December 3, 2019, The Benjamin School community was afforded the rare opportunity to see the traveling exhibit and the accompanying musical performance in Benjamin Hall.

“The violins you will hear today have borne witness to the Holocaust and to the very worst of what humans can do to one another. Each of these instruments has its own uniquely tragic — and, more importantly, uniquely inspiring — story to tell,” said Head of Upper School Fletcher Carr during his opening remarks.

The event, generously underwritten by the Atkins family, featured worldfamous violinist Gary Levinson, Sr., Principal Associate Concertmaster

“History, as some of you know, can often be seen on perhaps too large a level — a mass of facts and timelines that can overwhelm us.

But history is nothing more than the sum total of millions of small stories out of which emerges our collective story,” said Carr. Carr said that oftentimes seeing the one story is enough to teach us the overarching “big” story. Students in both the Upper and Middle school, faculty, and friends saw these pieces of living history represented in both the Violins of Hope collection and in special guest, Mr. Aron Bell, who survived the Holocaust. Mr. Bell helped 1,200 jews escape from Nazi Germany. His story was told in the feature film Defiance and the book Defiance: The Bielski Partisans by Nechama Tec.

Bell received a standing ovation from the standing room-only audience in Benjamin Hall. Caroline Moody, president of the Jewish Student Union, spoke on behalf of the organization. “As their melodies fill this hall, think of the 3.5 million Jewish men, women, and children who needed this music to survive. But also think of the 6 million Jews and 11 million others who will never dance to these harmonies again. I don’t intend to sadden you with these words, but rather the opposite. I wish only to remind you all and myself to be eternally grateful for when and where we were born,” said Moody.

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THE BUCCANEER | CELEBRATING THE ARTS

Dazzlers Perform in Macy’s Parade

Upper school dance team the Dazzlers performed at UCF this fall. The Dazzlers were front and center on the 45-yard line.

Skylar Ladd ‘21, Jada Travis ‘20, and Alex Kahn ‘21 represented TBS at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in the Spirit of America performance.

Winter Music Festival Music students from all three divisions proudly presented the Winter Music Festival to an excited crowd of Benjamin parents and families in Benjamin Hall.

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Buc Sports Highlights

THE BUCCANEER | BUC SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS

FHSAA Team Champions Congratulations to all our varsity teams who advanced to district, regionals, and state finals.

Varsity Boys Cross Country • District Champions • Regional Runners-up

Varsity Boys Golf • District Champions • Toby Harbeck — Sun Sentinel Coach of the Year • Blake Bowen — First Team All-Area • Sebastian Nachilly — First Team All-Area

Varsity Girls Golf • District Champions • Palm League Champions • Jenna Fonda — Sun Sentinel First Team All-Area

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BUC SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS | THE BUCCANEER

Varsity Girls & Boys Swimming Girls — District Runners-up • Boys — 4th Place District Finish

Varsity Football • Regional Semifinalists • SFC — 3rd Place District Finish

Varsity Girls Cross Country • District Runners-up

Varsity Volleyball • Palm League Champions • District Champions • Regional Champions • State Semifinalists

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THE BUCCANEER | BUC SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS

FOUR SENIORS SIGN

NATIONAL LETTERS of INTENT

Sara Beqaj SMU — Southern Methodist University (Women’s Golf)

Jenna Fonda Jacksonville University (Women’s Golf)

Bryce Kendrigan Towson University (Men’s Lacrosse)

Xander Kline Appalachian State University (Men’s Golf)

Junior Devyn Dyett Tapped for FHSAA Advisory Committee Student-athlete Devyn Dyett has been named a member of the Florida High School Athletic Advisory Committee. Dyett credits Assistant Director of Athletics Dave Bailey for encouraging her to apply for the position. Dyett traveled to Gainesville, Florida, for her first meeting with the organization. “I was welcomed by staff members of the FHSAA and the other students on the committee. I learned a lot about what it is exactly that the FHSAA does. I also had the chance to voice my opinion on matters such as recruiting, open enrollment, athletes’ mental health, recognition of all sports, and more. I took away many new ideas that I hope I can help implement at Benjamin,” said Dyett. Dyett said the organization also provided Benjamin with inside passes to state championship sports games this year. She will be returning to FHSAA Headquarters in Gainesville in May for the group’s next meeting.

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BUC SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS | THE BUCCANEER

2019 Fall Varsity Sports

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Alumni Focus

ALUMNI FOCUS | THE BUCCANEER

GREG BARTOLI, ENTREPRENEUR,

TRUSTEE, DELIVERS KEYNOTE ADDRESS AT ALUMNI BREAKFAST Greg Bartoli, founder of JEM Capital Management, a commercial real estate investment firm specializing in the hospitality business, served as the keynote speaker at the annual Alumni Networking Breakfast the morning of September 25, 2019. Bartoli, a graduate of Boston College and a first-generation American, spoke with Benjamin graduates about his career and the learning experiences that have most impacted him. Bartoli recounted his modest upbringing and his father’s entrepreneurial spirit. His father, a direct Italian immigrant living in Brooklyn, New York, handcrafted 100,000 Pietas, a Renaissance sculpture by Michelangelo, and sold them at the 1964 World’s Fair for 10 cents apiece. He then took that money and paid for his mechanical engineering degree at Rutgers College. Bartoli said his father’s work ethic and spirit helped shape who he is now. “Every parent wants to give their child something more than they had,” said Bartoli. “For my parents, that was a modest Catholic school in New Jersey. Now, my children have the opportunity to attend Benjamin — somewhere I would not have had the opportunity to attend.” Alumni Council President Matt Brannon said the Alumni Association was honored to be joined by Bartoli and Interim Head of School Tom Reid. “We hosted a diverse and engaged group for a highly interactive networking and Q&A session, and thoroughly enjoyed Mr. Bartoli sharing his unique story, his perspective on the evolving business landscape in South Florida, and a thoughtful discussion on economic forecasting,” said Brannon.

Bartoli resides in North Palm Beach, Florida, with his wife Patty and children Juliana ’26, Emma ’28, and Matthew ’30.

Alumni from left to right: Molly Stringer ’95, Robert Gimson ’04, Matt Brannon ’03, Chelie Casey ’80, Ellen Regnery ’83, Chelsea Reed ’88, Ami Reece ’86, Jenna Wittbold ’05.

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THE BUCCANEER | ALUMNI FOCUS

Matt Brannon ’03 Member, Board of Trustees; Alumni Council President Owner, Prosperity Land Title Q: F avorite teachers? A: Mrs. Higginbotham, Mrs. Hogan, Mrs. Lovell, Ms. Kelly, and Mr. Anderson.

Q: D o you keep in touch with any of your former classmates?

A: While we have all traveled around the world in pursuit of our individual interests, I keep in touch with a majority of our graduating class, and enjoy spending time with so many who are returning home to Palm Beach County.

Q: D o you feel Benjamin prepared you for college and your career?

Q: W hat are some of your favorite memories of your time at Benjamin?

A: Since first joining Benjamin as a pre-kindergarten student in 1989, many of my fondest memories have Benjamin as a backdrop. Among them: having the coveted chance to ring the morning bell on the Lower School campus, reading with Mrs. Benjamin, walking in the annual Halloween parade, competing with my class in the Olympics, our fifth grade trip to Washington, D.C., our marine biology trip to the Keys, building rockets in Mr. Sanders’ class, male cheerleading during homecoming week, and representing the school in the Youth Leadership Palm Beach County program; but above all else, just the people over the years at the School.

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A: Absolutely! The Benjamin School provides a challenging, college preparatory environment that set an incredible foundation, not only during my time at Rollins College and business school at the University of Florida, but as I have started and grown ventures over my career. The work was rigorous, but I was prepared beyond my peers to the point where professors complimented me, as other students struggled under the workload. While the school has had countless accolades and maintains an impressive list of college admissions, I attribute much of my overall character and leadership development to my time at The Benjamin School.

Q: T ell me how your career has evolved and how you became a small business owner.

A: Evolved is a fitting description. I started on the nonprofit side overseeing large programs working with students. I truly enjoyed investing in others and participating in that level of personal development. Through my time in leadership at several nonprofit organizations, I was incredibly fortunate to develop relationships and come under the mentorship of some very successful entrepreneurs and business leaders. Observing firsthand how businesses can “do well while doing good” was transformative, and fueled my entrepreneurial spirit. I started and sold a series of businesses, and began working in the commercial and residential real estate industry. I initially saw my opening in the form of an internship and quickly worked my way up into leadership at a large company in the Orlando area. While that proved to be an invaluable education, it also brought an awareness that my giftedness is more as a business owner than employee. As business was booming and I was finishing my master’s degree in entrepreneurship at UF, The Great Recession hit, and I had to evolve — again. Today, I’m fortunate to lead several great businesses, and expect that evolution will continue, win or learn.

ALUMNI FOCUS | THE BUCCANEER

Q: W hat advice would you give to current students, specifically those with an entrepreneurial spirit?

A: Entrepreneurship is romanticized, almost worshipped, these days. I believe one can be born with entrepreneurial gifts, but also that entrepreneurship can be taught. The truth is, it is far from easy and not everyone is geared toward it. We celebrate the successes and make it look easy on Shark Tank and Instagram, but behind every success is years of preparation, countless hours of work that no one sees, and staggering odds stacked against you. It’s less about invention and more about execution. Be passionate, but prepared. My generation has seen two worlds, as I remember dial-up internet, fax machines, the first cellphones, physically going to a library to access books, and was part of the first year of Facebook. Today, students have all of that — in their pockets. There has never been more opportunity, there are far less excuses, and you are owed nothing. The world is changing and a balanced, well-rounded student has infinite potential, if they can identify their unique giftedness and pursue that which makes them come alive. Fill your head, but follow your heart.

Q: Y ou currently serve on the Board of Trustees, and are president of the Alumni Council and actively engaged with the School. Why is it important to you to give back?

A: It has been equal parts a privilege and humbling to represent more than 3,000 alumni and to serve on the Board of Trustees. I often joke that I am on campus more now than when I was a student, and I do not have any children at Benjamin (yet). I give back because so many have given to me. The leadership of this great school gives tirelessly — the administration, faculty, coaches, and volunteers. We are a collective effort that together makes this all possible. This special community was started by people who simply wanted to give back, and it is those people giving back who will further that legacy.

Q: A nything else you want people to know about you?

A: At times, my family made sacrifices so that my sister and I could attend The Benjamin School. Those sacrifices were worth it and I am eternally grateful. While I started Benjamin as a pre-kindergarten student and graduated 14 years later, I left Benjamin for eighth and ninth grade. It was a very challenging two years, but in the end, it was an incredible shift in perspective. The old adage of you don’t appreciate something until it is gone applies here. I returned to Benjamin with fresh eyes and a renewed sense of appreciation. Benjamin is a special place, second to none.

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THE BUCCANEER | ALUMNI FOCUS

Mike Lustig ’99 Artist

Mike Lustig ’99, an artist based in Denver, Colorado, speaks with The Buccaneer about the evolution of his craft and his memories of Benjamin.

Q: D o you keep in touch with any of your former classmates?

A: Yes! One of my former classmates is among my best friends today, we speak regularly and occasionally visit each other.

Q: D o you feel Benjamin prepared you for your career?

A: Yes. Benjamin taught me how to

Installation by Mike Lustig ’99

Q: W hat are some of your favorite memories of your time at Benjamin?

A: My favorite memories were history classes and time spent with my friends on the wrestling team.

Q: D id you have a favorite teacher(s)? A: I went to Benjamin for both middle school and high school. My all-time favorite teacher was Mr. Sanders, my seventh grade science teacher. His approach to science was very hands-on. We did a number of experiments in class and got to see what happened. Another favorite teacher (while not an academic teacher) was my wrestling coach, Stephen DeSantis. I learned so much from him: the value of hard work and consistent discipline, efficient communication, working through struggle, humility, and being gracious in both victory and defeat. 36

think more deeply and broadly, how to think of relevant questions, how to listen, and how to thrive within an environment of motivated, intelligent, and talented people.

Q: T ell me about how your career and how your art has evolved over time.

A: I never expected to make art professionally. However, art has been in my life since a very young age. My mom would regularly take me to art museums as a child, my father was a gifted, self-taught sculptor, and they had successful artists as friends who I grew up being around. I eventually became very fascinated with mirrors, their interactivity, and with how

perception of light, space, and self can be transformed through reflection. I spent a lot of time experimenting with light sources and materials to explore radiance, reflectivity, and projection, spending many months making small-scale prototypes. I continued to educate myself. I reached out to artists who I did not know, but whose aesthetics I deeply admired. I was fortunate enough to gain a few mentors; successful artists who were generous to give me their time and advice. I learned new techniques and also more of the business of art. In the summer of 2018, my art’s visibility increased sharply. I did an installation at Burning Man that was very “instagrammable;” various posts of it on social media by others garnered more than 100,000 “likes” and my installation was featured in popular art blogs. That fall, I was featured as a local artist in a Meow Wolf art event. It was very hyped, with a lot of local media coverage. AEG Presents (the world’s second-largest presenter

ALUMNI FOCUS | THE BUCCANEER

of live music and entertainment events) was there, looking for local art talent to adorn a new music venue, The Mission Ballroom, which was being constructed in Denver. Their curator reached out to me after the show, and mentioned I might be a good fit for their project. I was given an opportunity to submit some concepts, which they liked. After a few months of concept adjustments and site visits, I pitched my design to their top executives and closed the deal. It had a huge budget and would be the first time I could go “all the way” with an aesthetic vision; an enormous opportunity with a lot of pressure. I assembled a dream team of eight, and we built and installed Crescendo (named in honor of a conversation I had with my late father) within budget and on schedule.

Q: W hat do you hope people take away from viewing your art?

A: Art is very subjective for me and I feel it is that way for most people. Reflection can be personal, adaptive to its environment, and ephemeral. We’re changing in every moment, so what someone may experience with my work in one instance may be totally different in the future. My goal is to channel reflection to change perception of self and space. Through that, my hope is that when people view and interact with my art, they empathize with themselves or with the present moment.

also finishing some smaller pieces that combine and improve upon elements of past projects. I’m presently focusing on high finishes and greater complexity. At some point around 2021, I’ll be contributing an installation to Denver’s upcoming Meow Wolf exhibition.

Q: W hat advice would you give to current Benjamin students, specifically those wishing to pursue careers in the arts?

A: Explore what you’re interested in. Read as much as possible. Study art history. Learn about how the art world works, learn how to write well, and learn how to sell. If you can communicate clearly and persuasively, you’ll have an easier time with everything in life. Go to museums and high-end galleries; read the placards. To find your voice, do more of what feels good and less of what doesn’t. Seek out and experiment with new techniques, concepts, and materials. Don’t feel pressured to complete works; create for the enjoyment of creating, learning, and improving. We often learn the most from failure. Persistence

will lead you to greater success. Find mentors. Find a way to make money separate from your art that pays enough to support yourself, pays for your materials, and provides you with enough time to make your art. Have backup plans for your backup plans. Volunteer your time to other art projects/ events. Contribute to a creative community; you’ll meet people and access ideas, experiences, and opportunities that you might not otherwise encounter. If you get stuck, just start again. Be where the action is and take initiative. Dream big. Work hard. Take chances. Have fun. Never give up, keep going, keep creating.

Q: A nything else you want to add? A: If anyone wants to talk art with me, they can contact me at art@mikelustig.com or on Instagram @mikelustigart.

Q: W hat’s next for you? A: I’m currently experimenting with radar, kinetics, and artificial intelligence. I’ve been applying for public art commissions for my designs and hope to get a commission in the future. I’m

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THE BUCCANEER | ALUMNI FOCUS

Former Congressman Rooney:

Military Service the ‘Most Incredible’ Honor of My Life More importantly than desirable Congressional committees, Rooney said his time spent in the U.S. Army JAG Corps was the highest honor of his life. Rooney was a student at the University of Miami Law School when an army recruiter came to campus and persuaded him that he would have more hands-on trial experience as a JAG officer than as a civilian attorney. “I didn’t know what I was getting into. We weren’t at war, nothing was going on. I didn’t know much about the military, but my dad reminded me about who my namesake was,” said Rooney. Rooney was named after his great uncle who was killed in WWII during the Pacific campaign. “My aunt had his Purple Heart, his letters home. The thing that got me the most was that before his last landing in Guam, he realized he would be killed. At 19, he wrote a letter to my aunt that was so casual and nonchalant after recognizing this. Something sparked in me about my great uncle and his sacrifice. It sparked a sense of service in me at 28, and I joined the army,” said Rooney.

Former Congressman Tom Rooney ’89 credits his military career for landing him one of the most coveted committee assignments during his tenure in Congress. “What I brought to the table in Congress was my experience in the military and my experience as a prosecutor in the military. When I was selected to be on the [Permanent Select] Intelligence Committee, it was because [former] Speaker John Boehner at the time said, ‘Here’s Rooney, he was a prosecutor, he was also in the military, so he gets what’s going on with our spies and the things we’re doing in secret all over the world.’ That moved me to the point where I was selected for the Intelligence Committee, which everyone in Congress wants to be on,” Rooney told the junior class the morning of November 7, 2019, during an Alumni Speaker Series lecture.

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Rooney and his wife Tara, who also served as a JAG officer, were stationed in Ft. Hood, Texas, when their first son was born in 2001. “Five days later, the planes hit the World Trade Center.” Rooney recalled drafting wills for service members in the 1st Cavalry Division who would never return home. “It’s never been lost on me . . . every time we have Memorial Day and Veterans Day, I think about those kids. It was the most incredible honor of my life to be able to know them, to associate myself with them, to say I wore the same uniform as these incredible heroes did,” said Rooney. Rooney told the audience of Benjamin students that as we prepare to honor our veterans on Veterans Day, it’s important to recognize that when you sign up to be in the military, you are making a sacrifice to potentially go to war and die for this country, our way of life, and the Constitution.

ALUMNI FOCUS | THE BUCCANEER

Additional Alumni Speakers

“But you’re also sacrificing some of the constitutional rights that a lot of us enjoy. Freedom of speech, freedom of expression. Those are things you can’t do when you’re in the military. The constitutional rights we’re upholding to defend, we are actually sacrificing for ourselves to keep you free,” said Rooney.

Edward Skrod ’96, Software Developer, Microsoft

Rooney emphasized that these freedoms include a peaceful transfer of power during election years. “There’s not violent unrest where the military takes over and they’re in control of the government like other countries. As Senator Rubio likes to say, there aren’t people getting on boats in the United States to risk their lives to cross the ocean to get somewhere where they can be more free. They’re coming here to try to get to this country. Think about the reason they’re doing it and have a little empathy as to why you would risk your life and risk everything to potentially get to the U.S. and get thrown in jail. And they’re still coming. It’s because there’s no better place on earth than this country. There’s no greater honor than to serve this country in uniform and continue that legacy for the next generation. You’re the next generation,” said Rooney.

Brianne Garrettson deSellier ’05, Tax Attorney

Rooney, a graduate from Benjamin’s Class of 1989 and a recipient of the School’s Distinguished Alumnus Award, acknowledged his alma mater and the connections made being a Benjamin alumnus. “You’re at the best school in Florida. There’s no better academic institution or place where you could be to give you the opportunity to go on to college and get a job. When you keep in contact with the people in this room, a lot of times the things you want to do or the jobs and opportunities you have are going to be provided by the people sitting next to you,” said Rooney.

Morgan Evers ’05, Community Relations Director, Early Learning Coalition of the Big Bend Region

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THE BUCCANEER | ALUMNI FOCUS

NPB Private Alumnus

Piccard Speaks at G7 Summit Breitling Orbiter 3. Shortly after, Arline received a thank you letter from Piccard, along with autographed pictures for her and her students who had written letters. According to Piccard’s Solar Impulse Foundation, his speech at the G7 emphasized the need for reducing the environmental impact of the maritime sector. The summit, created by French President Emmanuel Macron, brought together international leaders to identify innovative solutions and actions to fight climate change.

Bertrand Piccard, explorer, climate advocate, and the first person to complete a nonstop balloon trip around the world, was selected by the French government to address the G7 Summit on climate change. Piccard has long advocated for more ambitious climate policies. “We have to address climate change in a way that shows to the economical world that clean and energy-efficient solutions are the industrial market of the century to create new jobs and make more profit. So, it is not only about protecting the environment and fighting inequality, it’s about generating a qualitative growth,” said Piccard. Before becoming an internationally recognized Swiss explorer, Piccard was a student at North Palm Beach Private School. Lower School French teacher and alumna Lisa Arline remembers Piccard as a fellow student at the School. “He was two years younger than me, but he was from Switzerland and spoke fluent French, so he was placed in our advanced French class,” Arline said. Piccard’s father, Jacques Piccard, was an undersea explorer. His work studying the Gulf Stream brought the family to Florida. Arline has since stayed in touch with Piccard. In 1999, Arline encouraged her French students to write letters of congratulations to Piccard following the completion of his first nonstop balloon trip around the world in the 40

ALUMNI FOCUS | THE BUCCANEER

Alumni Class Notes and most recently became the managing broker for offices in Vero Beach and Melbourne, Florida. Managing luxury real estate offices across five counties and raising her two children, Tyler, age 14, and Caroline, age 11, keeps her very busy. Michael Hewitt ’82 recently donated a mahogany piano to the Lower School strings program. Lower School strings teacher Belen Clifford says students are thrilled by the donation and love performing with the piano accompaniment. Thank you to the Hewitt family for their generous donation! Chelsea Reed ’88 is running for Palm Beach Gardens City Council, Group 3. Chelsea is on the TBS Alumni Council, is an appointed member of the local Planning, Zoning and Appeals Board, and represents the district on the county’s Citizens Advisory Committee of the Palm Beach Transportation Planning Agency. She was recently awarded “Volunteer of the Year” by the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce. She serves as vice-chair of the Environmental Subcommittee, the chair of Artigras’ Recycling Committee, and is a member of the Women in Business Council and the Governmental Affairs Committee. As a tireless volunteer, she has raised funds and awareness for nonprofit health care, parks, and housing, and has been integral in building schools, pushing sustainable best practices in business, and healthy nutrition initiatives for children. Kelly Martin ’93 has been the managing broker of a Sotheby’s International Realty affiliate in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, since 2012. While growing the franchise, she has opened offices in Jupiter and Stuart, Florida,

Emily Kresser ’94 was married to Victor Martino in Miami. She currently works as director of association accounts for JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa. Her husband works as vice president of strategy and innovation for Converge Technology Solutions Corporation. Niki Cavallo ’98 has joined local leaders across the country to compete for cancer cures with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Man & Woman of the Year campaign. As a candidate, Niki will raise funds for blood cancer research and patient financial aid in memory of her father, Roy Warren. Niki’s campaign will begin on March 5, 2020. Dr. Robert Greer ’01 works as a primary care physician in Lake Park, Florida. He provided medical support to Hope Town in the Abacos following Hurricane Dorian. He spearheaded a relief effort with G/FORE hats, with all proceeds benefiting a nurse who works in Hope Town. Greer credits “Nurse Gloria” with keeping Hope Town afloat, medically, during and after the storm.

Paul Lawler ’02 began a new position as corporate counsel of Wealth Partners Capital Group in Palm Beach in August 2019. During the same month, he and his wife, Danielle, welcomed the birth of their daughter, Margaret Jane (pictured above). Paul currently serves as vice president of the Alumni Council and has a 4-year-old son, Jack, in preschool at Benjamin. Morgan Evers ’03 lives in Tallahassee, Florida, with her husband Matt. She works as the community relations director of the Early Learning Coalition of the Big Bend and sits on different boards and committees advocating for children both locally and statewide. She has a son Hinton, age 5, who just started kindergarten and a new addition, daughter Finley, 10 months old. Linnie Supall ’03 is incredibly grateful for the opportunity to return to South Florida as a TV reporter for WPTV NewsChannel 5! It’s been a few years since her days on campus, but she still credits her teachers, mentors, and friends from The Benjamin School for many opportunities that have come her way. From her diligence in the classroom to her dedication on the dance team, the lessons Linnie learned as a “Benjamin Buccaneer” prove once again that Continued on Page 42.

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leadership, trust, and compassion are essential ingredients for success. With unconditional support from her family, she’s ready to reignite her involvement with The Benjamin School and its mission to serve society. There’s no place like home! Rob Gimson ’04 and his wife Kimberly welcomed their third child in April. Baby girl Finley joins her (sometimes too excited) sister, Kyrie, brother, Robby, and goldendoodle Moose!

Ashton Kunkle-Mates ’05 currently lives in Washington, D.C., with her husband, Mladen, and 1-year-old son, Niko. Ashton works supporting the c-suite at the Partnership for Public Service and also works on the Partnership’s Center for Presidential Transition.

Lauren O’Neill ’07 and her husband, Scott Jennings, welcomed their second son, Logan, on September 4, 2019, joining big brother Hunter, age 2.

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Maggie (Regan) Jensen ’07 just returned to Florida after 11 years of living in New York City. She works for Coldwell Banker recruiting real estate agents.

Her husband, Nick, relocated to KPMG’s Jacksonville, Florida, office. The couple welcomed their first daughter Juliet Regan Jensen on November 26, 2019. Kathleen Parrott (Sorigini) ’07 gave birth to daughter Lyda Belle Parrott (pictured below) on August 24, 2019. She and her husband Jack reside in

Atlanta. Kathleen is a senior associate attorney at Lazega & Johanson, and Jack works in corporate strategy at UPS Global Headquarters. Chase Milner ’08 became engaged to Sarah Haggerty on April 25 at Disneyland Park, California. Chase and Sarah met at the University of Florida School of Theatre and Dance, and have lived in Los Angeles for the past several years. The pair plan to move to Tampa, Florida, this fall with their dog Bruno, and look forward to many reunions with the Class of 2008. Tiffany Robbins ’08 recently became engaged to Craig Shapiro. She opened her own business, The Sanctuary of Wellness, to aid those struggling with mental health challenges. She specializes in children, adolescents, and adults, and practices in Boca Raton, Florida. Santiago Zindel ’09 recently received his Master of Environmental Management from the Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies, and an MBA from the Yale School of Management. He has since moved back to West Palm Beach, Florida, and is working on a social impact tech startup called UPNDO, which aims to improve employee wellness and corporate philanthropic giving.

Kendall Cunningham ’09 became engaged to Terry Bradden, Jr., on March 15, 2019, in Palm Beach, Florida. Kendall is currently in her second year of law school at Howard University School of Law in Washington, D.C. Terry, a Riviera Beach, Florida, native, is a coach for the Kansas City Chiefs. The couple plans to wed in March 2021 in South Florida. Austin Rosenthal ’13 and Jeremy Stauffer ’14 recently founded Jupiter Watersports. Jupiter Watersports is a private charter that offers wake surfing, wakeboarding, tubing, cruising, and sightseeing in Jupiter, Florida. Their mission is to provide a concierge charter experience for beginners and experts alike. Rosenthal and Stauffer were both members of the “14-Year Club.” Alexandra Cass ’13 graduated early from Wake Forest University in December 2016. After studying abroad in Amsterdam her junior year, she decided to continue her education there. She completed her Master of Science studies at the University of Amsterdam in October 2018. She is currently living and working in Amsterdam as a digital marketing specialist for a global media agency.

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