Buccaneer Spring 2024

BUCCANEER

THE

THE MAGAZINE OF THE BENJAMIN SCHOOL

SPRING 2024 – VOLUME XXIV

Former NFL Star Jason Belser Named 2023 Stanton Leadership Speaker 1

Mr. David C. Faus, Head of School Dr. Kristen Sheehan, Head of Lower School Mr. Charles Hagy, Head of Middle School Mr. Fletcher Carr, Head of Upper School Mrs. Deanna Ball, Director of Finance Mrs. Leslie Downs, Chief Financial Officer/Chief Operating Officer Mr. Juan Carlos Fanjul '93, Chief Development Officer Mrs. Amy Jablonski, Director of Enrollment Management Mrs. Patti Maiselson, Director of Human Resources Mrs. Jessy Padon '01, Director of Communications Mrs. Susan Poncy, Director of Student Services PK3-8 Mr. Ryan Smith '93, US Director of Athletics/Director Of Transportation Mr. Russ Tepper, Chief Technology Officer

Marti Lotman ’06 Managing Editor

Jeremy Ferris Photographer

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Tracey Benson Christine Magee ’11 Jessy Padon ’01 Emilie Solomon Erica Sousa

Dr. Gray Smith Shannon Smith Amity Swank Aaron W. Yeary Thomas J. Zaccagnino

COMMUNICATIONS Jessy Fulford Padon ’01 Director of Communications

Head of School, Dave Faus (ex-officio)

Jeremy Ferris Digital Media Coordinator

TRUSTEES EMERITI Nancy Benjamin* Kevin Kenny* Martha Kenny* Barbara Nicklaus Jack Nicklaus *deceased

Lindsey Dodge ‘07 David Glickman ‘08 Sonny Gold ‘08 Justin Guerra ‘03 Max Kaye ‘10 Lauren Neto ‘06 Chelsea Reed ‘88 Ellen Regnery, ‘83 Justin Roemer ‘02

Marti Lotman ’06 Assistant Director of Communications

DEVELOPMENT Juan Carlos Fanjul ’93 Chief Development Officer Samantha Atkinson Director of Leadership Giving Sheena Wilber Director of Annual Giving and Special Events

2023-2024 ALUMNI COUNCIL Darren Craft ‘04, President Nikasha Wells ‘98, Vice-President Molly Stringer ‘95, Secretary Kristin Aiello ‘04 Sara Badham ‘05 Susy Benjamin ‘87 Brad Chamness ‘83

BUCCANEER

ADVANCEMENT OFFICE STAFF

2023-2024 BOARD OF TRUSTEES Sasha Klein, Chairperson Dr. Amy Zito, Vice Chairperson Rebecca Kujawa, Treasurer Kimberly Odom, Secretary Nicole Bessette Joe Costa Jonathan Diamond Eric Glasband Paul Lawler '02 Dr. Thomas H. Matese, Jr. Congressman Tom Rooney '89 Greg Savidge Kori Searcy Honorable Caroline Shepherd

THE

BENJAMIN SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION

Kyle Sheehan ‘96 Zoe Sullivan ‘11 Talbot Sutter ‘07

Mike Maiselson Development Database and Donor Services Manager Kristin Maltese Special Events Manager Ashley Simmons Urena '05 Alumni Relations and Development Manager

2023-2024 PARENTS OF ALUMNI COUNCIL Dawn Crawford P'18, '19, '22, President David Craven P'20, Vice President Kim Odom P'21, Secretary Shayla Davis P'19, '23

Valerie Bernstein P'22 Erika Sousa P'14, '15, '19 Gwyneth "Wyndi" Fournie P'18 Elaine Bennett P'19

Ann Slyh P'22 Megan Smith P'22 Carolyn Broadhead P '21

CONTENTS

ON THE COVER Former NFL Star Jason Belser Named 2023 Stanton Leadership Speaker

THE BUCCANEER – VOLUME XXIV

LETTER FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 TITLES OF NOTE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

CAMPUS FEATURES

FORMER NFL STAR BELSER NAMED LEADERSHIP SPEAKER . . . . . . . 7 BENJAMIN FOSTERS STUDENT LEADERSHIP ACROSS ALL DIVISIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 TBS RECIEVES COMPUTER SCIENCE AWARD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 US STUDENTS TRAVEL TO KEYS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 MS STUDENTS AFFIRM HONOR CODE DURING SPECIAL ASSEMBLY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

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MS CONTINUES PARTNERSHIP WITH ADL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 LORI RAMIREZ NAMED GRAHAM DISTINGUISHED TEACHER. . . . . . 15 LOWER SCHOOL FALL EVENT HIGHLIGHTS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS

HOMECOMING 2023. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 STANDOUT VARSITY SOCCER PLAY TURNS STAR KICKER . . . . . . . . . 20 ATHLETICS DIRECTOR REAPPOINTED TO FHSAA BOARD. . . . . . . . . 22

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FALL SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 VARSITY GOLF COACH HARBECK NAMED COACH OF THE YEAR. . 25 BENJAMIN BOYS GOLF CROWED STATE CHAMPIONS . . . . . . . . . . . 25

SPOTLIGHTS

ALUMNI CLASS NOTES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 ALUMNI EVENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

IMPACT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

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SPRING 2024 I THE BUCCANEER

Letter from the

Head of School

Dear Members of The Benjamin School Community, This Fall, we had the honor of hosting former NFL star and member of the NFL Players Association Jason Belser as our Stanton Leadership Lecture Series Speaker.

Belser, a Walter Payton Man Of The Year Finalist, stressed the importance of leading with kindness and surrounding yourself with kind people, regardless of how much power or influence they may wield.

His words resonated with our community and echoed our co-founder Mrs. Benjamin’s call some 60 years ago to “Be Kind, Be Kind, Be Kind.” Leading with kindness is central to a Benjamin education.

As you will read in the forthcoming pages of The Buccaneer, student leadership opportunities are boundless at Benjamin. From our youngest Buccaneers to the graduating class of 2024, our students are immersed in a wide variety of exciting opportunities inside and outside the classroom for growth.

One of the things I appreciate most about our community is that these opportunities come in all shapes and sizes and are fostered by a loving, kind, and supportive group of teachers.

For the student-athlete, the artist, academician, and in between, there’s a chance for all of our students to be campus leaders regardless of what passions they pursue.

And when they reach those tall mountains of success, I am confident that Mrs. Benjamin’s supplication will continue to serve as a beacon.

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In Community, David C. Faus

THE BUCCANEER I SPRING 2024

Q & A With Incoming Assistant Head of School After a national search this fall, Head of Lower School Dr. Kristen Sheehan was appointed Assistant Head of School. Her impressive educational background includes an M.S. in curriculum development and an Ed.D. in instructional leadership and reading. Since 2007, Dr. Sheehan has served The Benjamin School in a variety of capacities including lead teacher, academic dean, curriculum coordinator, and Head of Lower School.

The Buccaneer sat down with her to discuss her vision for this new role.

Q: What is your overall vision for this role?

A: My overall vision is two-fold: strengthening cross-divisional cohesion and curricular alignment from PK3-12 and continuing to be a visible, familiar face for our student and parent body.

Q: What are the characteristics of an effective leader?

A: An effective leader is approachable, fair, receptive to feedback from all constituents, and has a broad understanding of all facets of the organization they lead.

Q: If you could have dinner with anyone living or deceased, who would it be?

A: Queen Victoria - a strong woman who faced adversity head-on during her reign who was well respected and loved by her people.

Q: What’s something people would be surprised to know about you?

A: I’m an amateur beekeeper! I’ve also raised everything from pigs to rabbits, horses, and chickens.

Q: What's your fondest memory as a student?

A: My favorite memory from high school is volunteering our time once a week at different organizations as part of a social studies class.

I was placed at a local hospital as a candy striper working with elderly patients who were being transitioned into assisted living facilities. I loved it because I had wonderfully in-depth conversations with these patients, which gave me an appreciation of the importance of making strong personal connections with people and honoring legacies.

Q: What three adjectives would you use to describe yourself?

A: Fair, compassionate, loyal.

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TITLES OF NOTE I THE BUCCANEER

Titles of Note Denise Ponchock Middle School English Department Chair Some books stay with us always. Some characters become friends.

Books have the power to not only teach and guide but to change the trajectory of our lives. Here are a few of the books that have had the most significant impact on me.

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The Once and Future King T. H. White

White’s novel teaches us what true leadership is. An unassuming boy is methodically mentored and taught that “might does not make right! Right makes right!” Young King Arthur learns to shun tyranny and absolute rule and instead act nobly, honorably, and fairly by modeling himself after those who personify nobility, honor, and fairness. The art of listening, observing, and questioning helps the young king become the noblest ruler in literary history.

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The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn Mark Twain

Mark Twain’s beloved truant and social pariah takes an epic journey along the Mississippi River and learns lessons in empathy, morality, and fairness along the way. Twain’s Huck Finn holds a mirror up to his reader and asks us if we too are willing to look into our conscience and make difficult but morally correct choices. Few literary characters are as pure or as genuinely noble as the two main characters in Twain’s monumental classic. Huck and Jim embody the best in all of us.

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THE BUCCANEER I TITLES OF NOTE

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Anne of Green Gables L. M. Montgomery

A spirited orphan with great creative and intellectual potential, Anne Shirley is driven by her love of aesthetics, especially literature, to find her voice and have a positive impact on the world. L. M. Montgomery flawlessly weaves humor into her novel. Anne gets herself into outrageous scrapes, but she makes a Herculean effort to never make the same mistake twice. Anne has inspired many, including this writer, to never give up on a dream.

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The Hunger Games Suzanne Collins

A fiercely independent young woman refuses to submit to an unjust society.

Katniss Everdeen epitomizes the modern hero. She is strong and decisive yet empathetic and generous. As with any great leader, Katniss is forced to make decisions independently. Fortunately, she is guided by a strong moral compass.

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Harry Potter J. K. Rowling

Another character who must make his way in a seemingly indifferent world, Harry Potter quickly learns to navigate challenging situations with the help of mentors.

Harry is fortunate to have the Merlin-esque mentorship of Professors Dumbledore and McGonagall. Harry is also inspired and guided by his unwaveringly loyal friends, Ron and Hermione. Like her predecessors, J.K. Rowling reminds us of what we can accomplish when we are brave, noble, and supported by friends and mentors.

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Campus

Features

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From Left to Right: Leadership Speaker Jason Belser, Lisa Glasband, Ethan Glasband '30, and Board Member Eric Glasband

CAMPUS FEATURES I LEADERSHIP SPEAKER

Former NFL Star Belser Named Leadership Speaker Former NFL star and Walter Payton Man of the Year Finalist Jason Belser joined the Benjamin community on November 29 as this year’s Stanton Leadership Lecture Speaker.

The series, founded by former Board Chair Dan Stanton, has introduced the school community to distinguished speakers in a variety of fields.

“As an educational community, we know how important it is for our students to hear from a variety of speakers about their paths to success,” said Head of School Dave Faus during introductory remarks in Benjamin Hall.

Made possible by the Glasband family, Belser spent the day with both the upper and middle school communities sharing career highlights, words of wisdom, and important life lessons.

Belser encouraged students to get “the CASH,” an acronym he lives by after hearing the mantra from a coach when he was an NFL rookie. These guiding principles include character, attitude, skills, and habits.

He also told students interested in playing professional sports to get ready to work harder than they ever thought possible.

“It becomes a lifestyle.

You have to be willing to intentionally neglect what everyone else is doing. It’s one of the best but most stressful jobs and ultimately you don’t get to determine how long you stay,” he said.

For Belser, his stay was 11 seasons with the NFL before joining the staff at the Players Association, where he and his team were tasked with combing through thousands of resumes.

“Everyone wants to work in sports. Students from Ivy Leagues, top colleges across the country . . . we were looking for people we could trust.

If you can’t be trusted, you can’t be employed,” said Belser.

Belser said the overall concussion protocol he helped implement during his tenure with the Players Association is one of his proudest accomplishments during his time with the organization.

“We realized the game was not as safe as it needed to be and we started researching the helmets. That was the first epiphany of where we needed to go.

They were archaic at best,” he said.

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LEADERSHIP SPEAKER I CAMPUS FEATURES Belser said players also took money out of their salaries that was utilized for research and development to build better helmets.

Belser concluded his talk by reminding students to surround themselves with kind people.

Board Chair Sasha Klein, Board Member Tom Zaccagnino

“Keep your circle tight. My circle is tight. My best friend is sitting right down here,” said Belser pointing to the front row of the audience in Benjamin Hall where his former Colts teammate Eddie was seated.

“From him, I met this gentleman,” Belser said, referring to Board Member Eric Glasband on stage.

“From him, I met people I never thought I would have the opportunity to meet. All from different backgrounds, we all came from different places. Regardless of how successful someone is, what matters is that they’re kind. I want to surround myself with kind people,” he said.

Athletic Director Ryan Smith ‘93 said it was an honor and privilege to have someone with Jason’s incredible background speak to the Benjamin community.

“Mr. Belser’s emphasis on being kind, hard working, and resilient is in line with our Benjamin values and a great message to reinforce,” he said.

Eric Glasband, Jason Belser, former Colts teammate Ed Toner

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CAMPUS FEATURES I STUDENT LEADERSHIP

Benjamin Fosters Student Leadership Across All Divisions Leadership opportunities are boundless at Benjamin and take shape through a wide variety of mediums both inside and outside the classroom.

For Senior Simryn Patel, these opportunities are found in the science lab and as President of the Honor Council.

An avid researcher, Patel’s paper “Art Therapy’s Effectiveness and Its Role In Treating Neurological Conditions,” was recently published in The Horizon Academic Research Journal.

“This remarkable achievement is a testament to the dedication and hard work that Simryn has put into her research,” said upper school science teacher and mentor Renee Szeliga.

Patel is currently interning at Florida Atlantic University where she is working with zebrafish in a neuroscience lab. She also attended a program this summer with professors from Cambridge University in which she studied the complex relationships between the genetics of neurodegeneration, pathomechanisms of disease development and treatment regimens, among other studies in epidemiology, pharmaceuticals, and molecular biology.

When she’s not busy in the lab, Patel finds time to serve as president of the upper school’s Honor Council.

Lower School Student Council why an honor code is important, and a palpable desire to act as a leader by implementing the values of integrity and honor,” said Patel.

The Council works to settle possible violations of the honor code and “promote integrity and honor among the student body,” said Patel.

Patel said the Council hopes to give students a lifelong framework for integrity that will serve them well in their academic and personal lives.

"The Honor Code at the Upper School ensures a consistent expectation of moral conduct and integrity. The students write this pledge on top of all graded assignments. It not only reminds them to remain vigilant in their academic choices but also unites us in one common philosophy: each day we live by the 12 Benjamin Values," said Faculty Advisor Suzanne McCambridge.

Much like the breadth and depth of leadership opportunities available to students at the high school level, Benjamin’s middle school offers

Upper School Honor Council

A 20-year institution that began with the school’s expansion to two campuses, the Council serves as a compass for high school students.

Run by faculty advisor Suzanne McCambridge, students elected to the council must demonstrate “academic excellence, a strong understanding of

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STUDENT LEADERSHIP I CAMPUS FEATURES countless opportunities to its students.

Students in Mr. Nick Crisafi’s middle school broadcast journalism class know what it’s like to be division leaders. Each week, their work is on full display to an audience of their peers and teachers as they are tasked with presenting the news.

Journalism students in Crisafi’s class first determine what they feel is newsworthy to the Benjamin community and then work to present this information in an unbiased way.

Leaders in and outside the newsroom, the broadcast class affords students the opportunity to explore different roles within a typical TV studio from writing scripts, anchoring, and running a teleprompter and audio board.

“There are very few classes where the students' homework and projects are viewed by the entire TBS community, but that is the opportunity these students have,” said Crisafi. If they miss their deadlines or don't complete their objectives, our video production program is devoid of content.

They know this, and that constructive challenge helps them to focus, work together as a team, and deliver top-notch programming that is on par with many of the high school programs across the state of Florida,” he said.

And for the school’s younger Bucs, leadership is on display every Friday at morning lineup when the Student Council helps run assembly. “Student council representatives are the leaders of the lower school,” said Head of Lower School Dr. Kristen Sheehan. “All the younger kids look up to them and look forward to maybe one day running lineup as well.”

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Faculty advisor Mrs. Diona Kurz said student council members participate in everything from community service projects to campus cleanups and presenting Friday’s “Buc Report.”

Fourth and fifth grade students have the opportunity to run for Student Council. They must write a speech, create a poster, and get two teacher recommendations in support of their candidacy.

Then, two representatives from each homeroom are voted on by a group of their peers. Before signing on as council members, they must sign a code of conduct stating they will uphold all the virtues of the school.

Student Council members also help advertise all-school community service projects, submit proposals to the Head of Lower School for community-building projects, and have helped purchase new drinking fountains, group games, recess equipment, and Buddy Benches.

Kurz says each month the group highlights one of the school’s 12 Values and she encourages her Student Council leaders to consider how they can represent all 12 in their daily lives in and outside of school.

“Leadership opportunities across all divisions at Benjamin are tremendous,” said Head of School Dave Faus.

“There is truly an opportunity for every interest at TBS and a chance for all students to serve in a leadership capacity,” he said.

CAMPUS FEATURES I COMPUTER SCIENCE AWARD

The Benjamin School Receives Computer Science Award The Benjamin School was recently granted the prestigious CS100 Award in recognition of the school’s commitment to computer science. Benjamin is one of only six schools to receive the designation in Florida and the only independent school in the state to receive the high honor conferred by the Computer Science Teachers of America.

Kelley Hook, Lower School Coordinator of Administrative Services, spearheaded the program, attending a computer science program during the summer through the organization.

“The CSTA encouraged schools to join the CS100 and the CS100 ‘All In’ program. This year, lower school has scheduled computer science for all grades K-5,” said Hook.

In the lower school, students in Kindergarten and Grades 3-5 receive weekly computer science lessons.

Grades 1-2 receive quarterly lessons.

CS100 Awards acknowledge a school’s commitment to teaching 100 percent of their K-5 students computer science. Instruction cannot include computer skills instructions such as keyboarding or software skills.

Recognized instruction includes coding, robotics, “unplugged” CS instruction, and creative computational-thinking instruction.

“We are very excited that the review team approved our technology innovation curriculum to meet the requirements for the CS 100 All-In Award,” said Hook.

“At the lower school, we are providing robotics, 3D design and printing, and engineering in the tech classes and the STEM classes, but also offering coding, underwater robotics, and solar racing car clubs after school,” she said.

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THE BUCCANEER I CAMPUS FEATURES

Upper School Students Travel To The Keys Marine Science, AP Biology, and AP Environmental Science students traveled to Summerland Key in the Florida Keys for a hands-on experience at Mote Marine Laboratory. Students experienced living at the worldclass research facility, meeting some of the scientists, and learning about their research. Students enjoyed workshops in Coral and Fish ID and coral restoration techniques.

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CAMPUS FEATURES I THE BUCCANEER

Middle School Students Affirm Honor Code During Special Assembly The middle school community gathered on August 30 in The Barker Performing Arts Center where they affirmed The Benjamin School’s Honor Code during a special annual assembly.

Head of Middle School Charles Hagy welcomed sixth, seventh, and eighth grade students to the occasion hosted by the division’s Student Services Department. He introduced new faculty member Ron Kane, who recently transferred from the upper school, as the ceremony’s guest speaker.

Kane shared what living a life of honor means to him, through the metaphor of wearing many hats. Each hat, he said, represents pride and honor in some way.

From the hat of academic integrity, to that of pursuits outside the classroom, and a students’ off-campus hat, each should be worn with responsibility and dignity, Kane said.

“Many hats are better than one,” said Kane. “Each symbolizes a piece of your Benjamin experience. Or, as I like to say, the head, hands, and heart. Take all the hats with you; honor lives under them.”

“If you make a mistake, recognize it and be honest,” he said. “It will not define you. You will be forgiven and loved. After all, this is your home away from home.”

Dean of Students Nick Crisafi followed Kane’s keynote speech with a recitation of the Honor Code Pledge. Students and faculty then etched their names in the pages of Honor Code books, affirming their commitment to upholding the Honor Code during their middle school careers.

World Language teacher Ms. Latimer closed the assembly with a stirring rendition of the school’s Alma Mater.

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THE BUCCANEER I CAMPUS FEATURES

Middle School Continues Partnership With ADL The Benjamin Middle School continued its longstanding partnership with the Anti-Defamation League, hosting a week of workshops as part of its commitment to maintaining a “No Place For Hate” designation, granted by the ADL. Head of Middle School Chuck Hagy, who spearheaded the partnership, said the workshops were designed to provide students with the background information and practice needed to be a good ally.

“Students also learned how to respond with empathy to name calling and bullying. Our goals are to learn to be good allies, to promote kind behavior, and to practice advocacy for others on campus, off campus, and online. Our curricular theme for this year is impact: the power of words and actions, which provides many opportunities to explore our goals,” said Hagy.

Sixth grade students studied the topic of bullying and the roles we play and the choices we make.

Grade 7 students focused on cyberbullying and safety, and grade 8 participated in activities around being an ally in our community.

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Hagy said this work is indispensable and emphasized the importance of creating a culture in the middle school that allows students to feel cared for on campus.

CAMPUS FEATURES I THE BUCCANEER

Lori Ramirez Named Graham Distinguished Teacher Beloved middle school teacher Lori Ramirez received The Peter and Jody Graham Distinguished Teacher Award during an opening day ceremony in Benjamin Hall.

The annual award is presented to a Benjamin teacher who exemplifies the school’s 12 values and has contributed to the community both inside and outside the classroom.

Ramirez hails from a small Pennsylvania town where her love of dancing was born shortly after she could walk.

“In fact, her mother signed her up for baby ballet class at three years old and she hasn’t stopped moving since,” said Head of Middle School Charles Hagy in his introductory remarks.

A graduate of the Conservatory of Performing Arts at Point Park University in Pittsburgh, Ramirez found her way to the Big Apple where she spent 12 years performing as a Rockette in Radio City Music Hall.

“Her love for dancing and performing has translated beautifully into her career in teaching,” said Hagy.

Since arriving at Benjamin six years ago, Ramirez has elevated the middle school dance, acting, and musical theater programs to new heights.

“And we know,” said Hagy, “the best is yet to come.”

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THE BUCCANEER I CAMPUS FEATURES

Lower School Fall Event Highlights

Little Red Schoolhouse

Pre-K Holiday Cookie Party

Grandest Friends' Day

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The Polar Express

Pre-Kindergarten Fall Festival

CAMPUS FEATURES I THE BUCCANEER

National Honor Society Welcomes Senior Inductees The Benjamin School’s chapter of the National Honor Society welcomed new members during a Fall ceremony in Benjamin Hall on October 5. Head of School Mr. Dave Faus welcomed attendees to the annual ceremony, applauding those on stage for exemplifying the five pillars of NHS - leadership, knowledge, scholarship, service, and character.

AP Scholars Honored During US Assembly Upper school scholars were honored during a special morning assembly for their success in AP coursework and exams. Matias Saiz (Mejia) was also honored for being one of only 48 students in the world to score a perfect score on the AP United States Government and Politics Exam, earning every point possible on this particular exam.

Matias Saiz (Mejia)

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Sports

Highlights

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The Benjamin School

HOMECOMING 2023

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e d i r P c Bu

Go Bucs!

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THE BUCCANEER I SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS

Standout Varsity Soccer Player Turns Star Kicker Guest Authors: Caroline Groffman '26, Chase Zur '26 Benjamin multi-hyphenate senior Lily White effortlessly embodies the versatility that many athletes find elusive.

White, best known as the captain of the Benjamin Girls’ Soccer team, has scored a total of sixty-four goals and assisted on twenty-four others over her career. In addition to Benjamin varsity soccer, she has played on four different club teams. She has received the Sun Sentinel Soccer Player Of The Year Award for the past two years and is committed to play Division I soccer at the University of Pennsylvania.

If that wasn’t enough, this year White decided to make history. She became the first female kicker on the varsity football team at Benjamin.

“I thought that it would be fun to try something new before I graduated,” White said.

White’s remarkable athletic ability caught the eye of Benjamin’s football coaching staff who saw her potential to serve as the next kicker.

“I was her advisor for the last three years and our kicker last year graduated.” said varsity football coach Eric Kresser.

White said she only has quite literally a minute or two to contribute to her team’s success on the football field, “so there is a lot more pressure.”

She credits her soccer background for helping her maintain her composure during these high pressure situations.

And, by all accounts, she has done just that: in the school’s only conference game of the season White made every extra point she kicked - contributing six points to her team’s winning score of 49-6.

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While her versatility and athletic prowess is unmatched, it’s her leadership and kindness on the field that stands out to her teammates.

“Once during a [soccer] game, I remember I was playing and we were up by 3 against a weaker opponent,” said Senior Zoe Cooper.

“Lily had the ball and she could have easily dribbled on her own past their defense and scored, adding to her stats for the season. Instead, she chose to pass the ball to me which I ultimately lost. Lily, being who she is, was not mad at all, just happy to give one of her teammates the chance to have a shot on goal. She is a selfless player and wants the best for everyone on the team, not just for herself; although everyone already knows she is a really talented player, it should also be acknowledged that she is an amazing teammate,” Cooper said.

SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS I THE BUCCANEER

Athletic Director Reappointed To FHSAA Board Director of Athletics Ryan Smith ‘93 was reappointed to the FHSAA Board of Directors.

The organization serves as the governing body for athletics in the state of Florida.

"There have been a number of changes in the last few months within the FHSAA due to recent state legislation passed,” said Smith.

“One of the changes was the restructuring of the FHSAA Board of Directors. I am honored and excited to have the opportunity to continue to serve on the FHSAA Board of Trustees for this school year.

I look forward to continuing to represent the entire state of Florida, while also serving as a voice for private schools in South Florida,” he said.

Smith will serve as the representative for Section 4, Private School, for a third year and is the first member of the Benjamin community to serve on the Board. He is joined by 12 other individuals who were either elected by membership or appointed by the Governor of Florida and confirmed by the Senate.

Cornell Lacrosse Coach Speaks To Middle School About Leadership Middle school students had the exciting opportunity to hear from Head Cornell University Lacrosse Coach Connor Buczek about leadership and the importance of character development on and off the field.

Buczek joined the Middle School via Zoom as part of the Division’s study of The Hard Hat, the true story of former Cornell lacrosse player George Boiardi’s impact and legacy. The book features 21 lessons and exercises about being a great teammate and building a cohesive team.

Buczek, who led Cornell to a NCAA final appearance in his first season as Head Coach, emphasized the importance of putting in the work and holding yourself accountable both on the field and off.

A former Cornell lacrosse player and three-time All American, he said, "When it comes to leadership, well done is better than well said."

"Talk is cheap. There are a lot of things that you can say, and talk about, and aspire to and you can say it eloquently - and that’s all great and that’s part of this, great leaders speak eloquently - but if you don’t walk the walk, if you don’t have that moral authority because you do things the right way all the time, then you don’t have much to stand on,” said Buczek.

Buczek also spoke to students about earning the respect of their peers and doing things for their innate importance rather than the potential for applause.

“Sometimes in being selfless, you’re not always going to be the star or the center of attention . . . the respect of your peers is worth more than applause. Be significant rather than successful.

Impact those around you as you’re doing the right things,” he said.

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THE BUCCANEER I SPORTS HIGHTLIGHTS

TEAM FINISHES

Fall Sports Highlights DISTRICT FINISHES Girls Swimming and Diving – District Champions Boys Swimming – District Runner-up Volleyball – District Champions Boys Golf – District Champions Girls Golf –District Champions Football – District Runner-up

STATE FINISHES Boys Golf - State Champions Girls Cross Country - State Meet Finalist Girls Golf - State Tournament Finalist Girls Swimming & Diving - State Meet Finalist

REGIONAL FINISHES Boys Golf - Regional Champions

Varsity Golf Coach Harbeck Named Coach Of The Year Varsity Golf Coach Toby Harbeck was named Coach of the Year

by The Palm Beach Post. Nine varsity boys golf players were also named to The Post's AllArea teams.

due recognition for his outstanding Florida Athletic Coaches Association and Benjamin School Athletic Hall of Fame career,” said Smith.

Brooks Colton '12, Travis Robertson '24, and Charlie Woods '27 were named to The Post’s First Team. Aiden Miller '24, Jack Nicoletta '25, Luke Wise '24 were named to the Second Team.

“The FHSAA state championship win was a display of tremendous teamwork, perseverance, and grit,” said Smith.

Athletic Director Ryan Smith ‘93 said these Post honors demonstrate the county and statewide respect for the depth of talent on the team.

“We are so proud of Coach Harbeck and his team for an incredible season . . . This is one of many times Coach Harbeck has been named Palm Beach Post Coach of the Year. It is another very

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Harbeck, who has coached at Benjamin for over 40 years, led the varsity team to their fourth state title in the school’s history where they came back to win on the final two holes after being down going into the final nine.

VARSITY GIRLS GOLF 1st Team - Reese McMillan Honorable Mention - Kai Haydon

SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS I THE BUCCANEER

Benjamin Boys Golf Crowned State Champions For the fourth time in program history, the varsity boys golf team won the State Championship after battling a rain-soaked two day tournament at Mission Inn and Resort in Lake County, Florida.

Despite trudging through soggy turf, rain, and wind, the boys swept the Class 1A Tournament, returning to campus with some exciting new hardware.

Sophomore Jake Valentine was the team’s lowscorer of the match (148), tying for 8th in the tournament. Brooks Colton trailed by one stroke (149) followed by Pavel Tsar (152), Charlie Woods (154), and Tyler Bruneau (156).

Longtime Coach Toby Harbeck said his team deserves “all the credit and then some.”

“I did not hit one shot in three days,” Harbeck said.

“Student-athletes who you would not not necessarily think of stepped up yesterday and really came through. I am so proud of what they have become and how they will continue to grow. Buccaneer Pride was on full display,” said Harbeck.

Harbeck said there was a group of more than 100 people there to greet the team as they finished on the 18th green.

“And they were loud! I am so proud to be their coach, but more proud to be a coach and a teacher at Benjamin,” Harbeck said.

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THE BUCCANEER I ALUMNI CLASS NOTES

Alumni Class Notes The Hansen and Bischoff families spent a week this summer volunteering with students and faculty at the Kijana Global Innovation School in Western Kenya, Africa, founded by former Benjamin teacher Jim Cummings.

Featured (left to right): Former Benjamin teacher Patrick Hansen, Ellie Bischoff ‘25, Janna Scarola Bischoff ‘94, Charlotte Bischoff ‘29, Jim Cummings, Cecilia Hansen ‘29, Cara Scarola Hansen ‘97, Henry Hansen (future Buc), and Jack Hansen ‘27.

Molly Stringer '95 joined The Sheehan Agency in Jupiter, Florida, in 2021 and was recently named to Marquis' "Who's Who" for Excellence In Real Estate.

Dr. Amanda Pierman, ‘97 is excited to share the news of the completion of her doctorate. She received an Ed. D. in Educational Technology on November 2, 2023.

Brianne Garrettson DeSellier ‘05 and her husband Brent welcomed their first child, daughter Brynnlee Ann DeSellier on October 12, 2023.

Brianne and future Buc Brynnlee are featured here at their first pediatric visit with Dr. Jeanmarie Connor '97.

Ashlee (Albert) Zahringer ‘05 and Duncan Zahringer ‘07 welcomed their third child, a baby boy, Grayson John Zahringer, on July 14, 2023.

Lauren (O'Neill) Jennings '07 and her husband Scott welcomed their third child, daughter Caroline, in October 2023. She joins big brothers Hunter and Logan. They reside in Tampa.

ALUMNI CLASS NOTES I THE BUCCANEER Jenna (Smith) Wittbold ‘07 and her husband, Ryan, welcomed precious identical twin girls, Kinsley and Rhea on October 18. Jenna owns a luxury event and wedding planning company, Your Sparkling Event that services Palm Beach County, South Florida, and destination events. Ryan is the Director of Food and Beverage at Mariner Sands Country Club. They currently reside in Palm Beach Gardens.

Nick Provenzo '07 and Alana Schmidt were married in Lake Como, Italy on June 16th, 2023. The wedding was officiated by Ryco Newton-Block '07, with Best Man, Matt Bideau '07 at their side.

Kirby (Kempe) Nielsen '09, on behalf of her team, presented and received The Exeter Prize for their paper "When Choices are Mistakes," published in The American Economic Review.

Kelly (Kohlmeyer) Williams '11 and husband Quint Williams welcomed their first baby, Jackson Williams into the world on June 26, 2022 in Jupiter, Florida.

Bennett Sousa ‘14 is a pitcher for the Houston Astros. Former President George W. Bush stopped by the locker room for a visit ahead of a ACLS game this season.

Sophie Smith ‘19 is the CEO and co-founder of College Contact and is a participant in the TechStars Program for young entrepreneurs.

Her company raised a $1.025M pre-seed round, has helped 2.5k students, and has generated 14M views on social media all within five years of graduating from Benjamin. She resides full-time in Austin, Texas.

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THE BUCCANEER I ALUMNI EVENTS

Alumni Events

Homecoming 2023

Legacy Family/Parent Happy Hour

Alumni Networking Breakfast

FSU/UF Watch Party

Blake Erdmann Benjamin Alumni Lacrosse Game

Alumni Holiday Party

CHRONICLING PHILANTHROPY AT THE BENJAMIN SCHOOL

IMPACT SPRING 2024 I VOLUME VIII

A TBS Priority:

Investing in Safety and Security

IMPACT I INTERVIEW WITH THE BOARD CHAIR

An Interview With Board Chair, Sasha Klein The Buccaneer recently sat down with Board Chair Sasha Klein to hear more about what’s on the horizon for Benjamin and her vision for the school’s future.

Q: What qualities make a good leader?

A: A good leader clears obstacles and provides support so teammates can reach their highest potential. I have found that effective communication, vision, empathy, integrity, humility, and passion are key. These qualities collectively contribute to strong leadership, and I plan to use each of these tools to inspire, motivate, and guide our Trustees to the achievement of our goals.

Q: How does it feel to be part of the first all-female Executive Board at Benjamin?

A: I am humbled with not just the opportunity, but the responsibility, of being only the second female Board Chair in the school’s history and the first with an all-female Executive Board. I am very proud of the talent and wisdom of the individuals who comprise our Executive Board.

Q: In what ways has the school changed since you first became a parent here?

A: Our school has a long and proud history with a rich legacy. During my 11+ years as a Benjamin parent, the school has evolved and adapted through extraordinary circumstances, including the pandemic. Benjamin has done a wonderful job of pushing its curriculum forward while maintaining the traditional aspects of a Benjamin education.

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Q: If you had to describe yourself in three words, what would they be?

A: Passionate, empathetic, driven.

Q: What are you most excited about in Benjamin’s future?

A: Benjamin is one of the most highly selective independent schools with an incredible list of prospective students on waiting lists. We are harnessing our incredible momentum by expanding and enhancing the personal growth opportunities our children experience every day. I’m excited for the school to add new programming, build state-of-the-art facilities, increase our connection to alumni, and keep parent engagement at an all-time high.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES I IMPACT

2023–2024 Board of Trustees

Sasha Klein, Chair

Congressman Tom Rooney ‘89

Dr. Amy Zito, Vice Chair

Greg Savidge

Rebecca Kujawa, Treasurer

Kori Searcy

Kimberly Odom, Secretary

Honorable Caroline Shepherd

Nicole Bessette

Dr. Gray Smith

Joe Costa

Shannon Smith

Jonathan Diamond

Amity Swank

Eric Glasband

Aaron Yeary

Paul Lawler ‘02

Tom Zaccagnino

Dr. Thomas Matese, Jr.

Dave Faus, Head of School (ex-officio) TRUSTEES EMERITI Nancy Benjamin* Kevin Kenny* Martha Kenny* Barbara Nicklaus Jack Nicklaus *Deceased

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IMPACT I ALUMNI COUNCIL

2023–2024 Alumni Council

Darren Craft ‘04, President

Justin Roemer ‘02

Molly Stringer ‘95, Secretary

Zoe Sullivan ‘11

Nikasha Wells ‘98, Vice-President Kristin Aiello ‘04

Sara Badham ‘05

Susy Benjamin ‘87

Brad Chamness ‘83 Lindsey Dodge ‘07

David Glickman ‘08 Sonny Gold ‘08

Justin Guerra ‘03 Max Kaye ‘10

Lauren Neto ‘06

Chelsea Reed ‘88

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Ellen Regnery, ‘83

Kyle Sheehan ‘96 Talbot Sutter ‘07

HONORARY MEMBERS Matthew Brannon ‘03 Dr. Morgan Poncy ‘88

Congressman Tom Rooney ‘89 Brian K. Waxman ‘86

EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS

Juan Carlos Fanjul ‘93, Chief Development Officer Dave Faus, Head of School

Jessy Fulford Padon ‘01, Director of Communications Ashley Simmons Urena ‘05, Alumni Relations and Development Manager

FAMILIES LEAD THE WAY I IMPACT

Families That Lead The Way In Philanthropy And Volunteering As you have read in the pages of The Buccaneer, leadership takes many forms at TBS. In addition to our student leaders, many Benjamin parents take the lead in our volunteering and fundraising efforts. Let’s meet a few TBS families who are leading the way as Leadership Society donors who give $5,000 or more annually to Annual Fund, BASH, capital campaign and/or endowment.

We wanted to know why our families give at a high level and/or volunteer their time, often on a daily basis.

We start with our Annual Fund co-chairs. These families have worn many hats over the years and they are now leading the way to help support all students and teachers at TBS.

Chris and Meghan Hurley Jackson - Grade 3 Charlotte - Grade 6 Joined Benjamin community in 2015 Roles: Vice-President of BPA (Meghan) and Annual Fund Co-Chairs, BASH Ad Committee (Meghan), BPA Fine Arts Liaison (Meghan) “Volunteering with the Benjamin BPA and Annual Fund gives me an opportunity to model service and philanthropy for my children.

The BPA gives me a front row seat to all of the remarkable achievements of our children and community. Collaborating with the Annual Fund feels like a seamless fit for Chris and me given our backgrounds in sales and finance.

We enjoy knowing the participation and donations from families will make a direct impact on our children each year. Volunteering serves as a great reminder of the numerous reasons to take pride in being part of the Benjamin community.”

Tom and Kristie Zaccagnino Nicholas - Grade 9 Luca - Grade 7 Adrian - Grade 6 Mila - Grade 4 Joined Benjamin community in 2020 Roles: Member of Board of Trustees (Tom), Annual Fund Co-Chairs, and BASH Advertising Co-Chair (Kristie) “As parents of four Benjamin students that span the lower, middle, and upper schools, we feel fortunate to be part of the Benjamin community.

We recognize that the amazing experience our children benefit from at Benjamin comes at a cost that tuition does not cover. We feel it is important to not only give directly to the school to help narrow the gap, but also to help raise additional funds through the various school fundraising programs. What has felt right for our family beyond giving, is to be as active as possible in the Benjamin community through the many wonderful volunteer opportunities. Our involvement has made us feel part of the community fabric and allowed us to be extremely present in our children’s time at Benjamin.”

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IMPACT I FAMILIES LEAD THE WAY

Justin Roemer ‘02 and Cynthia Roemer Madison - WOW Sienna - Kindergarten Roles: Alumni Council (Justin), BASH Auction Co-Chair (Cynthia) “As a Legacy family, we have seen that the school’s commitment to excellence, achievement, and strong sense of values over the years has not changed. We appreciate the escalating costs of providing salaries for the best teachers and maintaining state-of-the art facilities. We choose to give at a Leadership Level to support the exceptional education emanating from the unparalleled Benjamin faculty, staff, facilities, and programs.”

Darrel and Kori Searcy Daschle - Grade 7 Joined Benjamin community in 2014 Roles: Member of Board of Trustees (Kori), Diversity and Inclusion Committee members, previous BPA President (Kori), Annual Fund Caller (Kori) “We feel strongly that our support of Benjamin makes a significant contribution to the overall development of the student body. Being an involved parent through volunteer work, lending time, talent, and resources, significantly reinforces valuable social and life skills as well as academic growth in students.

When children feel loved and supported in the school setting, the more likely they are to want to become better versions of themselves. This is why we believe in The Benjamin School.”

“We recognize that the amazing experience our children benefit from at Benjamin comes at a cost that tuition does not cover” 34

– TOM & KRISTIE ZACCAGNINO

FAMILIES LEAD THE WAY I IMPACT Leadership Society members and Honorary BASH co-chairs, Richard and Tiffany Augustyn, parents of Luke in 5th grade, opened their home and their hearts to more than 100 Benjamin employees on December 1. The couple hosted the School’s annual faculty and staff holiday party at their beautiful home in North Palm Beach to usher in the spirit of the holiday season. Mr. Augustyn told the crowd: “In a world that is constantly evolving, you provide a stable foundation of knowledge and wisdom. As parents, we entrust our most precious treasures to you, and every day you rise to this immense responsibility with grace and professionalism. We see the fruits of your labor in the balanced growth and happiness of our children, and for that, we are eternally thankful.”

Robert and Susan Ambrose Liza - Grade 8 Role: BASH Auction Co-Chair (Susan) “We give back to Benjamin to ensure the highest level of education, athletics, and extracurricular activities. We got involved with BASH because it’s a great way to raise money and experience an awesome night while including new people at the school.”

Welcome Sammy Atkinson!

Mrs. Sammy Atkinson joined Benjamin in July 2023 as Director of Leadership Giving. In this new position, Sammy will help grow the spirit of philanthropy at TBS by cultivating and stewarding Leadership Society donors in support of Annual Fund, BASH, and Capital Campaign. Atkinson, who most recently served as Director of Development at the Shaquille O’Neal Foundation, moved from Las Vegas along with her husband Ian and daughters Tessa in WOW and Allie in Kindergarten. Prior to the Foundation, Atkinson was Director of Development at her alma mater, The Meadows School, an independent Pre-K through grade 12 school in Las Vegas.

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A L U M N I A S S O C I AT I O N

GOLF CHAIR: COLIN HICKEY ‘07

MONDAY, MAY 6, 2024 • LOST TREE CLUB Includes boxed lunch, 18-hole course, shotgun start, beverages on and off the course, silent auction, goodie bag per player, carts, and awards cocktail reception.

All alumni, friends, and TBS families are welcome to participate!

GENERAL $3,000 Foursome $750 Single Player

TBS ALUMNI $2,500 Foursome $625 Single Player The purchaser and player(s) must be a TBS Alum

19TH HOLE COCKTAIL RECEPTION $100 per guest

REGISTER YOUR TEAM OR BECOME A TOURNAMENT SPONSOR AT: WWW.THEBENJAMINSCHOOL.ORG/ALUMNIGOLF

2024 GOLF SPONSORS

As of December 1, 2023

For more information, contact Ashley Simmons Urena ‘05 at ashley.simmons@thebenjaminschool.org

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Benefiting The Benjamin School’s Alumni Legacy Families Endowment.

TBS is a 501(C)(3) Non-Profit Organization.

SOLD OUT

THANK YOU!

FEBRUARY 24, 2024 • 6:30 PM PGA NATIONAL RESORT & SPA

VIEW THE WILD BASH GALA AUCTION WWW.BIDPAL.NET/BASH2024 Online bidding for Premier Online and Silent Auctions Opens February 15, 2024 at 11:00 AM / Closes February 24, 2024 at 8:00 PM SET MAX BIDS ON ITEMS AND BIDPAL WILL BID FOR YOU That way, you can sit back, relax, and support TBS all at once!

BASH 2024 LIVE AND PREMIER ONLINE AUCTION FEATURING

6 Nights in Saint Helena, CA

VIP DJ Experience with Shaquille O’Neal

16 Skybox Tickets to Bad Bunny

3 Nights at Dromoland Castle in Co Clare Ireland

AND SO MUCH MORE!

If you didn’t get your tickets to the event, but would still like to bid on Live Auction items, please email sheena.wilber@thebenjaminschool.org before February 23, 2023 at noon for a proxy bid form.

More items added weekly to www.bidpal.net/bash2024

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IMPACT I BASH COMMITTEE MEET & GREET

BASH 2024 Committee Meet and Greet Over 60 Benjamin parents attended the BASH Committee Meet and Greet on September 21 in the Lower School/Middle School Library. Led by Co-Chairs Matt and Christina Nihan and David and Kaitlyn Axelrod and with a committee of over 140, BASH is sure to be wildly successful!

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MIDYEAR REPORT OF GIFTS 2023–2024 I IMPACT

FOUNDERS’ SOCIETY

The Benjamin Founders’ Society ($500,000 or more cumulatively) honors donors who have provided extraordinary support to the school through a lifetime of giving. Membership in the Society is the highest honor bestowed by Benjamin to those who share the goal of providing excellence in education.

Listing includes all gifts (cash in) received to date to Annual Fund, Capital Campaign, BASH, and Endowment.

THE MARSHALL AND NANCY BENJAMIN CIRCLE

$1,000,000+ Anonymous

Charles and Susan Barker Berlin Family Foundation

Mr. and Mrs. Nathaniel Dalton The Healey Family

Ambassador Al and Dawn Hoffman The Jacobs Family Foundation The Maglio Family

Mr. and Mrs. Harold S. Reed THE HEAD OF SCHOOL CIRCLE

$500,000+

Anonymous (2)

The Atkins Family+

Cape Branch Foundation The Doran Family The Fong Family

Raymond and Tarry Graziotto

Mr. Thornton Henry* and Mrs. Ann Henry Mr. and Mrs. S. Tucker S. Johnson

The Kirkwood Fund of the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Miller

The Joseph W. O’Connor Family Mr. and Mrs. Nelson Peltz John and Stephanie Pew The Reiter Family

The Rosatti Family

Dr. and Mrs. Charles S. Theofilos and Family Barbara Thomas and John Thomas*

The Meryl & Charles Witmer Charitable Foundation Meryl and Charles Witmer

+New to Founders’ Society *deceased

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IMPACT I HEADS’ APPRECIATION DINNER

Head’s Appreciation Dinner Head of School Mr. David Faus hosted an appreciation dinner on September 15 at Mirasol Country Club to thank families who led in philanthropy during the 2022-2023 school year by giving $15,000 or more to the school. During his toast, Mr. Faus reminded the group it cumulatively gave nearly $2.7 Million last fiscal year with some donors already making significant gifts this year. Starting this year, those giving $25,000 or more will be invited to the Head’s Appreciation Dinner.

Kimberly and Aaron Yeary

Crystal and Cal Haupt III

Guests at this event gave at the TBS Benefactors level or higher in the 2022-2023 school year

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Astrid and Matt Womble

David and Hailey Barry

HEAD’S APPRECIATION DINNER I IMPACT

Andrea Franceschi, Kaitlyn Axelrod, Danielle Ragosa, Michelle Reutter

Holly and David Faus, Sasha Klein, Elizabeth Costa, Lisa Glasband

Ryan and Danielle Jenkins, Madeline Maglio, Leslie Downs, Nicole Bessette, Bobby Wunderlich, William Maglio

Gaston Franceschi, Matt Nihan, Andrew Reutter

Eric Glasband , Jason Brauth

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IMPACT I MIDYEAR REPORT OF GIFTS 2023–2024

LEADERSHIP SOCIETY

The Leadership Society ($5,000 or more annually) recognizes those benefactors who have been especially generous to The Benjamin School. Donor listings include the sum total of an individual’s gifts, pledges and pledge payments to the Annual Fund, Capital Campaign, BASH Sponsorship or Call from the Heart, and Endowment in a given fiscal year. Listing includes pledges, pledge payments and one-time gifts donated July 1, 2023 through November 30, 2023. Listing also includes payments made this year on multi-year pledges.

PARTNER’S CLUB

$100,000+

Anonymous (2) Rich and Tiffany Augustyn Brett and Meaghan Barakett Berlin Family Foundation Jillian and Robert Cleveland Collis Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Bill Maglio Michael and Kimberly Narlinger Chris and Lee Skillin The Smith Brothers Family Foundation Astrid and Matt Womble 1960 SOCIETY

$50,000.00+ Anonymous Jason and Kristin Brauth Mr. and Mrs. Joseph A. Costa The Doane Family Advised Fund at the University of Notre Dame Randy and Rebecca Doane Goldman Sachs Gives Lisa and Eric Glasband Mr. Justin H. Green and Mrs. Jenny Slayton-Green Steve and Brie Oliveira Albert and Tamara Rabil Mr. and Mrs. Robert Rubin The Rubin-Weisenfeld Family Slayton Family Foundation Aaron and Kimberly Yeary BLUE AND ORANGE SOCIETY

$25,000.00+

Anonymous (2) The Atkins Family The Baldwin Foundation Bruce Baldwin Dunnan

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Mr. and Mrs. Peter Baytarian, Adrianna Baytarian ‘34, Nicolette Baytarian ‘35 Mrs. Nicole M. Bessette Jillian and Robert Cleveland The Dunning Family Jason and Marissa Elmer Cal and Crystal Haupt CJ, Avery, and Callie Haupt Kaminski Family Impact Fund Mr. and Mrs. Ronald G. Kaminski The Klein Parthemer Family John and Rebecca Kujawa Mr. and Mrs. Joseph LaBanz Matthew and Christina Nihan Mr. and Mrs. Heath C. Odom Propp Family Foundation Marni and Morris Propp Chris and Christine Sorenson Stiles-Nicholson Foundation David and Amity Swank TBS BENEFACTORS

$15,000.00+

Anonymous Alyssa’s Bakery Mr. and Mrs. Mark Anderson David and Kaitlyn Axelrod Drs. Roger and Radhika Coron Mr. and Mrs. Luke Donald Ian and Kelly Foster Ryan and Danielle Jenkins Darren and Sierra Lowe Mr. Joseph Marinucci NextEra Energy, Inc. Mr. and Mrs. Kelcy Pegler PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP - Sasha Klein and Family Brad and Rechelle Richards Mr. and Mrs. Doug Saraqi Adam and Elizabeth Simon Tom and Kristie Zaccagnino

TBS SUSTAINERS

$10,000.00+

Anonymous Mr. and Mrs. Scott Bailey David and Sara Badham Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Berardo Mr. and Mrs. Shane T. Caiazzo Mr. and Mrs. John C. Cassidy Jr. ‘85 Citi Private Bank Brian and Jill Conn Connors Capitol LLC Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Connors Mr. James J. Doyle ‘98 and Mrs. Lauren Doyle Dr. and Mrs. Elliot Ellis The Susan and Leonard Feinstein Foundation Susan and Leonard Feinstein Flah & Company Mr. Nathan C. Flah ‘07 Mr. and Mrs. Michael E. Goin Good Greek Relocation Systems Jill and Matt Hamilton Chris and Meghan Hurley Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey E. Kwatinetz Biriçim and Mark Miller Family Matthew and Roxanna Neisser Mr. and Mrs. Jack W. Nicklaus Mr. and Mrs. Peter A. Ragosa Salt Water Home Group and Waterway Title Services Schwab Fund for Charitable Giving Darrell and Kori Searcy Dr. and Mrs. Ryan Simovitch The Stutts Family Mr. and Mrs. Rich Tuohey

BUCCANEER SOCIETY

$5,000.00+

Anonymous (3) Guru and Chris Bandekar Mr. Robert Barboni and Dr. Sylvia Zuniga-Barboni Greg and Patty Bartoli Mr. and Mrs. Christopher E. Beach Mr. and Mrs. Russell Bissett Carolyn Broadhead, Heidi Schirm ‘21 and Edward Sasso ‘34 The Burden Family C. NICKLAUSSTARLING & Associates James and Erin Carpenter John C. Cassidy Air Conditioning Inc. Mr. and Mrs. Douglas M. Coles Dara and Madison Collum Paul and Carrie Combes Comiter Singer Baseman and Braun Shelby and Kyle Crockett Cumberland Trust Mr. & Mrs. James R. Davis de Fabrique Aesthetic Dentistry Dr. Richard and Amanda DeLucia Dr. and Mrs. Nicolas C. deFabrique DMD Sara and Chad Densen Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan D. Diamond Mr. and Mrs. Brett M. Fairclough Mr. and Mrs. Brendan Farley Mr. and Mrs. David Faus Mr. Michael Feiner and Dr. Jaymie Feiner Mr. Brad Finkbeiner and Dr. Robyn Woo

MIDYEAR REPORT OF GIFTS 2023–2024 I IMPACT Mr. and Mrs. David First Mr. Robert F. FitzPatrick and Dr. Luisa M. Milevoj Fox Rothschild LLP The Frankel Family Kim and Mark Gelnaw Rob and Kimberly Gimson Chris and Michelle Grande Mr. Peder Gulbrandsen and Mrs. Liubov Vladimirovna Mr. and Mrs. Thomas M. Hoban Jr. Hometown Cleaners & Tailors - The Padon Family Mr. and Mrs. Peter J. Hutchen Mr. and Mrs. Joshua N. Jeffries Mr. and Mrs. Chris Kalian Dr. and Mrs. Matthew H. Klein Alex Kochman ‘06 and Jill Kochman Andrew and Mary Lago Mr. and Mrs. Coy Langley Ms. Eleni Larcombe-Marinucci Paul and Danielle Lawler William and Andrea Lewis Trey and Jennifer Lytal Dr. Walid Mangal and Mrs. Homaira Mangal Mr. and Mrs. Seth Mankin Marsh McLennan Agency Mr. and Mrs. Jason P. McCarty Michael and Lauren McCully Clement and Linda McGillicuddy Jeffrey and Elissa Miller Moya Photography The Robert Muir Family Foundation Mr. Robert S. Morrell and Mrs. Kristin Muir Mr. and Mrs. Stephen L. Myers Jr. Mr. Eric C. Nicklaus ‘13 Mr. and Mrs. Steven C. Nicklaus ‘81 Northern Trust Mr. and Mrs. John O’Brien Mr. and Mrs. Brent Padon (Jessy Fulford ‘01) Palms Wellington Surgical Center - The Montijo Family

Mr. HG Park and Mrs. Sunah Yang Dr. Nishant Patel and Dr. Rina Patel Bill Perry and Amy Allen Piper Sandler Mr. and Mrs. Jim G. Porter Harold and Kate Reed Family Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Harold S. Reed Mr. and Mrs. Andrew R. Reutter Mr. and Mrs. Sean K. Rice Justin Roemer ‘02 and Cynthia Roemer Mr. and Mrs. Christopher M. Rooney ‘87 Greg and Jess Savidge The Dossie Schattman Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Jeremy C. Seabridge Mr. Christian D. Searcy, Jr. ‘98 and Dr. Deborah W. Searcy Daniel R. Sheehan ‘94 Mr. and Mrs. Nizam M. Siddiq Mr. and Ms. Hendrik A. Sluiters Ali and Jennifer Soffan Ms. Rosalie B. Sorenson Mr. and Mrs. Chase M. Spetter Mr. and Mrs. John Stein Mr. and Mrs. Brian G. Stengle Mr. and Mrs. Matthew S. Stohlman Mr. and Mrs. Glenn R. Tobias Ms. Danica Treadwell Mr. and Mrs. Emanuel A. Troise III Vanguard Charitable Mr. and Mrs. Anton Volo Dr. Jill Kelderman and Mr. Marty Walsh The Meryl & Charles Witmer Charitable Foundation Meryl and Charles Witmer Paul and Paula Wittmann Mr. Justin Young and Dr. Allison Young

43 *deceased

IMPACT I LEADERSHIP SOCIETY RECEPTION

Leadership Society Reception Parents gathered for a cocktail reception at the beautiful home of Steven and Brie Oliveira to celebrate philanthropy at The Benjamin School. This Leadership Society reception honored donors who gave $5,000 or more during the 2022-2023 school year.

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Brie and Steven Oliveira

Brian and Jill Conn

Michael and Kimberly Narlinger

Jenny and Justin Green

Lee and Chris Skillin

David and Sara Badham ‘05

LEADERSHIP SOCIETY RECEPTION I IMPACT

Darrell Searcy, Brie Oliveira, and Cara McAlees

James & Katie Dunning, and Steven Oliveira

Guests at this event gave at the Buccaneer Society level or higher in the 2022-2023 school year

Ron and Meredith Kaminski

Husnia and Nizam Siddiq, Guru and Chris Bandekar, and Richard DeLucia

Meghan Hurley, Christina Nihan, and Jill Conn

Rob and Jillian Cleveland

Mr. David Faus, Sasha Klein and Mark Parthemer

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IMPACT I 2023-2024 ANNUAL FUND

THE 2023-2024 ANNUAL FUND

Gifts to the Annual Fund support the current year operating budget of The Benjamin School, providing critical funds for student programs, faculty salaries, facilities maintenance/improvements and more.

Listing includes pledges, pledge payments, and gifts donated July 1, 2023 through November 30, 2023.

Listing also includes payments made this year on multi-year pledges.

$100,000-$249,999

Brett and Meaghan Barakett

$50,000-$99,999

Steve and Brie Oliveira Albert and Tamara Rabil Mr. and Mrs. Robert Rubin Chris and Lee Skillin The Smith Brothers Family Foundation The Rubin-Weisenfeld Family

$25,000-$49,000

Rich and Tiffany Augustyn Jillian and Robert Cleveland Jason and Marissa Elmer Mr. Justin H. Green and Mrs. Jenny Slayton-Green Cal and Crystal Haupt CJ, Avery, and Callie Haupt Grayson and April Jenkins Mr. and Mrs. Joseph LaBanz Michael and Kimberly Narlinger Slayton Family Foundation Stiles-Nicholson Foundation

$15,000-$24,999

Anonymous (2) Mr. and Mrs. Mark Anderson Mr. and Mrs. Peter Baytarian, Adrianna Baytarian ‘34, Nicolette Baytarian ‘35 Drs. Roger and Radhika Coron Mr. and Mrs. Luke Donald Ian and Kelly Foster Brad and Rechelle Richards Adam and Elizabeth Simon David and Amity Swank Aaron and Kimberly Yeary

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$10,000-$14,999

Anonymous Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Berardo Mr. and Mrs. Shane T. Caiazzo Brian and Jill Conn Mr. James J. Doyle ‘98 and Mrs. Lauren Doyle Dr. and Mrs. Elliot Ellis The Susan and Leonard Feinstein Foundation Susan and Leonard Feinstein Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey E. Kwatinetz Matthew and Roxanna Neisser Mr. and Mrs. Heath C. Odom Piper Sandler Mr. and Mrs. Peter A. Ragosa Darrell and Kori Searcy Dr. and Mrs. Ryan Simovitch The Stutts Family Chris and Christine Sorenson Mr. and Mrs. Rich Tuohey Tom and Kristie Zaccagnino

$5,000-$9,999

Anonymous (4) David and Kaitlyn Axelrod Mr. Robert Barboni and Dr. Sylvia Zuniga-Barboni Greg and Patty Bartoli Mr. and Mrs. Christopher E. Beach Mrs. Nicole M. Bessette Mr. and Mrs. Russell Bissett The Boyland Family Carolyn Broadhead, Heidi Schirm ‘21 and Edward Sasso ‘34 The Burden Family James and Erin Carpenter Mr. and Mrs. John C. Cassidy Jr. ‘85

Christopher and Vanessa Chandler Mr. and Mrs. Douglas M. Coles Dara and Madison Collum Mr. and Mrs. Joseph A. Costa Shelby and Kyle Crockett Cumberland Trust Mr. & Mrs. James R. Davis Dr. Richard and Amanda DeLucia Sara and Chad Densen Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan D. Diamond The Dunning Family Mr. and Mrs. Brett M. Fairclough Mr. and Mrs. Brendan Farley Mr. Michael Feiner and Dr. Jaymie Feiner Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund Fidelity Foundation Matching Gifts to Education Program Mr. Robert F. FitzPatrick and Dr. Luisa M. Milevoj The Fifth C Foundation The Frankel Family Kim and Mark Gelnaw Lisa and Eric Glasband Chris and Michelle Grande Mr. and Mrs. Thomas M. Hoban Jr. Chris and Meghan Hurley Mr. and Mrs. Peter J. Hutchen Mr. and Mrs. Joshua N. Jeffries Ryan and Danielle Jenkins Dr. and Mrs. Matthew H. Klein The Klein Parthemer Family Alex Kochman ‘06 and Jill Kochman Andrew and Mary Lago Mr. and Mrs. Coy Langley

Paul and Danielle Lawler William and Andrea Lewis Darren and Sierra Lowe Trey and Jennifer Lytal Dr. Walid Mangal and Mrs. Homaira Mangal Mr. and Mrs. Seth Mankin Mr. Joseph Marinucci Clement and Linda McGillicuddy Jeffrey and Elissa Miller Mr. Robert S. Morrell and Mrs. Kristin Muir The Robert Muir Family Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Stephen L. Myers Jr. Matthew and Christina Nihan Mr. and Mrs. John O’Brien Mr. HG Park and Mrs. Sunah Yang Mr. and Mrs. Kelcy Pegler Bill Perry and Amy Allen Mr. and Mrs. Jim G. Porter Mr. and Mrs. Sean K. Rice Justin Roemer ‘02 and Cynthia Roemer Mr. and Mrs. Christopher M. Rooney ‘87 Greg and Jess Savidge The Dossie Schattman Foundation Daniel R. Sheehan ‘94 Schwab Fund for Charitable Giving Mr. and Mrs. Nizam M. Siddiq Mr. and Ms. Hendrik A. Sluiters Ali and Jennifer Soffan Ms. Rosalie B. Sorenson Mr. and Mrs. John Stein Mr. and Mrs. Brian G. Stengle Mr. and Mrs. Matthew S. Stohlman

2023-2024 ANNUAL FUND I IMPACT Mr. and Mrs. Glenn R. Tobias Ms. Danica Treadwell Mr. and Mrs. Emanuel A. Troise III Vanguard Charitable Mr. and Mrs. Anton Volo Dr. Jill Kelderman and Mr. Marty Walsh The Meryl & Charles Witmer Charitable Foundation Meryl and Charles Witmer Paul and Paula Wittmann Mr. Justin Young and Dr. Allison Young Tom and Kristie Zaccagnino

$3,000-$4,999

Anonymous The Austin Memorial Foundation David and Sara Badham The Bishop Family Foundation Drs. Gary and Erika Badzinski Mr. and Mrs. Scott M. Colton ‘81 Dr. and Mrs. Jason S. Cooper Mr. and Mrs. Michael E. Davis Mr. and Mrs. David Faus Mr. and Mrs. Drew Gendron Mr. Harry Giovani and Dr. Micheline Giovani Mr. and Mrs. Gregory Godino David and Kimberly Hand Mr. Matthew Konecky and Mrs. Ashley Glasser- Konecky Mr. and Mrs. Michael MacDermott Tony and Amy Marlow Drs. Thomas and Anne Matese Mr. and Mrs. Gard Olbers Mr. and Mrs. Emilio S. Pedroni Dan and Courtenay Peyovich Dr. Justin Platzer and Dr. Lyad G. Platzer Dr. and Mrs. Brian Reiter Mr. Charles Rodgers Drs. Dave and Heather Rodin Mr. and Mrs. Joseph A. Schmidt

Mr. and Ms. Benjamin M. Scott Joe and Suzy Tomassetti Mr. and Mrs. Matthew S. Valle Elizabeth Zahra Joseph and Amy Zito

$1,000-$2,999

Anonymous (7) Mr. and Mrs. Robert Ambrose Josh and Leigh Arwood Ian and Samantha Atkinson AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals Mr. and Mrs. Scott Bailey Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan T. Bain Kenneth and Deanna Ball Nancy C Banner, P.A. Mr. and Mrs. Kent A. Baughman Mr. and Mrs. Bryon C. Bell The Brescia Family Mr. and Mrs. Alexander Brock Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Brunk Mr. and Mrs. David L. Buchalter Ms. Holly Carias Dan and Amy Chait Matthew and Jill Chait The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida, Inc. Mr. and Mrs. Zakary R. Cutler Mr. and Mrs. Marc J. Datelle Dr. and Mrs. Nicolas C. deFabrique DMD Mallory and Brody Doremus Sean Downes John and Leslie Downs Mr. Zachary Drozda and Mrs. Brittany Drozda ‘05 Mr. Juan Carlos ‘93 and Dr. Helia Fanjul Mr. Ilia Mogilevsky and Ms. Natalia Filippova Mr. and Mrs. David First Mr. and Mrs. John Garbiel Mr. and Mrs. Michael E. Goin Goldman Sachs Gives Mr. Charles Hagy and Ms. Deborah J. Hale Marco Hernandez and Idalidy Caraballo

Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Hilzenrath Mr. and Mrs. J Scott S. Keller Ana and Alain Lapter Ms. Paige R. Lawrence Mr. and Mrs. Preston A. Lemanski Mr. and Mrs. Robert Macdonald Derek and Jennifer Malmberg Mr. and Mrs. Josh Marks Mr. and Mrs. Michael McCarthy Mr. A. McKinney and Dr. I. McKinney Matt and Sasha Melendy Mr. and Mrs. Patrick M. Murrin The Neer Family NextEra Energy, Inc. Dr. and Mrs. Andrew Noble Mr. and Mrs. Steven Owens The Palm Beach Shakespeare Festival Inc. Keith and Dana Pearsall Stacy and Lance Pillersdorf Dr. Morgan R. Poncy ‘88 and Dr. Suzie Poncy Ted and Pam Rauch Dr. and Mrs. Glen Reece Mr. and Mrs. Dennis J. Regnery David and Jennifer Riback Jared and Lori Roth Rodrigo and Andrea Saiz Tom & Susan Scaperotto Dr. and Mrs. Russ M. Seger Mr. and Mrs. Vladimir Sergeyev Michael and Monica Sheehan Mr. William N. Shepherd and The Honorable Caroline C. Shepherd Mr. and Mrs. John Slyh Dr. and Mrs. Gray Smith Kevin and Meg Smith Mr. and Mrs. Paul Spencer Mr. and Mrs. Chase M. Spetter Mr. and Mrs. Talbot K. Sutter Mr. and Mrs. Harris D. Thompson Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Travers

Mr. and Dr. Edward J. Welch Esq. Mr. and Mrs. Sean Welsh Levi and Sheena Wilber Mr. Andrew T. Witmer ‘16 Mr. Ian C. Witmer ‘16 Ari and Niki Zur

$500-$999

Anonymous (2) American Online Giving Foundation, Inc Bank of America Charitable Gift Fund Mr. Kenneth Archer The Ashley Family Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Benfield, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Bischoff (Janna Scarola ‘94) Dr. David Brodner ‘88 and Mrs. Kelly Brodner Mr. and Mrs. Fletcher Carr Ms. Nancy Carson Mr. Albert Chin Mr. and Mrs. Alan J. Ciklin Paul and Carrie Combes Pamela and Andrew Comiter Mr. and Mrs. James Davis Ms. Catherine N. Dickinson Mr. and Mrs. Robert Dillon Mr. and Mrs. Ronald H. Engels Jr. Karen and Rob Feldman Mr. and Mrs. Matthew L. Fink Stefan Gelch and Kim Spivey Matt and Alice Harrigan Mr. Jack P. Hill ‘93 and Mrs. Michelle Hill Mr. and Mrs. Sarah Hoben Jr. Brande and Kurt Hoffman Mr. and Mrs. Mark M. Kamp Mr. Lawrence J. Kelleher IV ‘90 and Mrs. Anna Kelleher Mr. and Mrs. Geoff A. Lambert Mr. Luca Levi-Minzi and Dr. Maria A. Levi-Minzi Mrs. Courtney Loceff Terry and Maryette Louis

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IMPACT I 2023-2024 ANNUAL FUND The Maiselson Family Mr. and Mrs. Siupeli Malamala Mr. and Mrs. John P. Marasco Mr. and Mrs. Brian D. McArdle Mr. and Mrs. Sean H. McGrady Mr. Michael T. Nichols Dr. Alan Poremba and Mr. Richard Poremba Mr. and Mrs. Corey Rakoczy Mr. and Mrs. Bryan Reid ‘91 Mr. Brian J. Rooney ‘91 and Tiffany Beach Rooney ‘93 Mr. and Mrs. Kipp M. Schulties Dr. Kristen and Mr. Patrick Sheehan Kyle ‘96 and Traci Sheehan Glenn and Karen Straub Mr. Scott Tregoning and Mrs. Kimberly Mark Mr. and Mrs. Nadiem Umar Mr. and Mrs. Hal R. Venoff Dr. and Mrs. Augusto E. Villa Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Voskanian Dr. Kevin Zheng and Mrs. Catherine Huang

$1-$499

Anonymous (25) Mr. and Mrs. David F. Adam Amine and Shaun Aghzafi Alfonso and Alexandra Aguirre Ms. Kristin K. Aiello ‘04 Mr. Juan P. Alvarez and Mrs. Lori Giese Ms. Kirsten L. Andersen Mr. and Mrs. Ryan and Shannon Anderson Mr. and Mrs. Steven Anderson Mrs. Lola Arbuzow Mr. and Mrs. Jack W. Armstrong Mrs. Kristina Arnn Ms. Kirkland Austin Mr. and Mrs. Crafton Axtell The Bailey Family

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Mr. and Mrs. Michael L. Balistreri Ms. Suzanne Ball Mrs. Gina Barker Mr. and Mrs. Steven Baumruk Mr. and Mrs. Robert V. Bayless Jody Bear Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Benedetto Mr. and Mrs. Frank Benson Mr. and Mrs. Jim Berger Mr. Henry Bernuy Mr. Brendon Biancardi and Ms. Tamara Petrelli Mrs. Susan J. Bickel Mr. Steven Blount Mr. Andres D. Godoy and Mrs. Jennifer M. Bodington Ms. Amber L. Borger Mr. Joseph A. Borzillieri III Shawn Bounds and Brenna Chirby Ms. Caitlin Bowen Mr. Chalvin Bowens Mr. and Mrs. Sam P. Braud V Mr. Chad Bubis Esq. ‘03 Ms. Kate Buettin Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Byrne Claire Canese Mr. and Mrs. Mason Carpenter Dr. Luis Castro and Dr. April D. Downey Mr. and Mrs. James Cecchini Mr. and Mrs. Riordan Cheatham Ms. Katie Chellemi Mr. and Mrs. Emre Cikinci Mr. and Mrs. Robert Clancey Darren and Alexandria Clarke Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Clifford The Cobbs Family Ms. Lei D. Cohen Donn and Martha Colee Judge and Mrs. Roger Colton Mrs. Renee Coviello and Mr. Richard Matthaei The Cowles Family (Jamie Cowles ‘04)

Nicholas and Piper Crisafi Crowe LLP Mrs. Allison Dahlmeier Davis ‘95 Mr. and Mrs. Joseph DePaulis Kathleen C. Devine Mr. and Mrs. Rudy DeVries Pam and Dan Didio Mrs. Mary A. Ditaranto Mr. and Mrs. George M. Donaldson, Jr. Ms. Colleen Donnelly Ms. Alexandra Dos Santos The Duffy Family Mr. and Mrs. John Dumont Ms. Caroline Duran Miss Taylor D’Urso Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Egizio Ms. Sarah Etheart Ms. Alyssa Feck Mr. and Mrs. Frederick L. Fellows Matt and Chrissie Ferguson Jackie Filia Mrs. Teresa Fleming Mr. and Mrs. William Fleuridor Anne and Craig Franzen Mrs. Wells and Mr. Funk Carmen Garcia Mr. Tim Garman and Mrs. Lauren Lapon Mr. and Mrs. Timothy P. Garrettson Mr. and Mrs. Stephen George Mr. and Mrs. Christopher George Mr. and Mrs. David Gillert Mr. and Mrs. Nathan Ginnetty Dr. and Mrs. Mitchell G. Glogower Ms. Therese Gold Mrs. Joyce B. Goldberg Bekka and Matt Goldberg Mrs. Gonzalez-Lopez Mrs. Natalie Graboski Mr. Buckley Griffis and Mrs. Danielle Griffis

Mr. and Mrs. Charles W. Griffith Ms. Melissa E. Grillo The Honorable and Mrs. Robert M. Gross Mrs. Beverly Gustafson Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan L. Guzman James Haley Mr. and Mrs. Bob Hamilton Mr. John Hanigan and Mrs. Christina Liang Mr. Patrick Hansen and Mrs. Cara S. Scarola Hansen ‘97 Mrs. Cathryn Hansen Mr. and Mrs. William A. Hanser Mr. and Mrs. Toby L. Harbeck III Elizabeth Hasbrouck Mr. Matthew P. Haughn Mrs. Kim Havlicek Mr. and Mrs. Matthew D. Hay ‘04 Mr. Michael Hayes Jr and Mrs. Mattie Higgins Hayes ‘94 Mr. and Mrs. Travis D. Heil Mr. and Mrs. Scott Heilpern Mrs. Kristen Hewitt Mr. and Mrs. Frank Hogan Rob and Kelley Hook Mr. Bruce Huber Mr. and Mrs. Richard Hudson Mr. Joel Hunt Ms. Michelle Iavarone Dr. Nicollee Inguagiato The Jacobsen Family Mr. and Mrs. Chuck Jandourek Mrs. Katie Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Adam R. Jones Ms. Marisa Joyce Mr. and Mrs. James Joyce Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Kane Jr. Ms. Alexa Kapelewski Mrs. Genevieve Karmeris Mr. and Mrs. Kumar N. Kartik Ms. Jessica Kaufman Mr. and Mrs. Francis X. Kearns III

2023-2024 ANNUAL FUND I IMPACT Susan and Gregory Keller Mr. Nick Kelly Mr. and Mrs. Robert Kelly Mr. and Mrs. Shane Kittendorf Lorraine and Gary Klein Ms. Jennifer S. Kochman ‘09 Mr. and Mrs. Robert Konger Mr. Eric J. Kresser ‘92 and Mrs. Jenna Kresser John and Rebecca Kujawa Mr. and Mrs. Michael Kurz James Labadie and Carol Moore Mr. and Mrs. Patrick C. Lacy Mr. and Mrs. David J. Ladd Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Lane The Lappin Family Ms. Kimberly Latimer Mr. and Mrs. Wesley Lauer Erica Lazarus Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Leshin Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey C. Lesserson Mr. and Mrs. Gregory T. Letsche Mr. Scott Linehan Mrs. Pilar Loaiza Mr. and Mrs. Greg Lokitus Mr. and Mrs. David J. Luiz Ms. Anna Malone The Maltese Family Mr. Cosimo Marcantonio Mr. Andrew Marsiglio Craig and Caron (‘93) Martin Mr. and Mrs. Todd Martin Mr. Keith E. Maynard and Mrs. Carrie F. Nettleton Ms. Rachelle Mays Ms. Nancy McAllister Mr. and Mrs. Matt A. McCambridge Mr. and Mrs. Carl R. McCaughey Mr. and Mrs. Paul McGrail Ms. Carol McGrath Ms. Heather McKinstry Mr. and Mrs. Christopher McMillan Mr. and Mrs. Anthony R. Mielnik Mr. and Mrs. Michael Miller

Mr. and Mrs. Ransom Miller Mr. Desmond Mintern Ms. Sara J. Misselhorn ‘90 Mr. Douglas Molina Kathleen Murphy Kelly Murray Mr. Scott C. Myers ‘05 Mr. and Mrs. Michael Navin NextEra Energy Foundation, Inc. Rob and Julie Nicoletta Mr. and Mrs. Brandon J. Nocella Graciela Nuchovich Mr. and Mrs. Morty Nussbaum Mr. and Mrs. Ciarain O’Reilly Mr. Matthew Oster Mrs. Stephanie Oster Mr. and Mrs. Keith Ouellette Mr. and Mrs. Brent Padon (Jessy Fulford ‘01) Mr. Michael Palmgren Mr. and Mrs. John Z. Pare Dr. Vikram Patel and Dr. Michelle Udeshi Mr. and Mrs. Jason Peck Dr. John Peruggia III Mrs. Dynisha L. Peterson Mr. and Mrs. Lee Peterson Amanda (Warner) Pierman ‘97 Jason Pierman ‘96 Ella Pierman ‘22 Mr. Haim C. Pizam and Mrs. Siobhan Wingfield Mr. and Mrs. Henry Polidori Del and Denise Ponchock Mr. and Mrs. George Poncy, Jr. The Preston Family Ms. Laura Priola Ms. Mackenzie Queen Mrs. and Mr. Ramirez Mr. and Mrs. Jean Claude Rankine Dr. Josh Baldwin and Mrs. Shannon Reagan Baldwin Mr. and Mrs. Sandy C. Reddick Ms. Ami Giurato Reece ‘86

Mrs. Alexandra Laura B. Reilly Tammy and Joe Rice Mrs. and Mr. Diana Rios Mr. and Mrs. Richard Rizzitano Mr. and Mrs. Bruce C. Robertson Jr. Mr. Zackary S. Rubiano ‘17 Mr. Mike Ruggie Mr. James Gigele and Mrs. Erin Ryan The Salivar Family Mr. and Mrs. Joe Samarias Ms. Rosanne Sammis Mr. and Mrs. Charles Sampson Jane Schaas Ms. Sen Rider L. Scherb ‘16 Mr. and Mrs. Brian R. Schnurr Ms. Audrey Schwarz Ms. Cayleigh Scotten Mr. Shane M. Searson ‘14 Mrs. Lucy Shulas Mr. and Mrs. Preston A. Sizemore Dr. Jade-Elizabeth Smith Mr. Ryan T. Smith ‘93 and Mrs. Megan Smith Mr. Ryan T. Smith ‘26 Ms. Emeline E. Smith ‘22 Ms. Margaret A. Smith ‘24 Mr. and Mrs. Vance Smith Mrs. Emilie Solomon Mr. and Mrs. John M. Souther Mr. Richard Soviero Mr. and Mrs. Van Sparger Mr. and Mrs. Gary Sparks Mr. and Mrs. Chris S. Sparks Ms. Samantha Speier Ms. Janice L. Spivey Mr. and Mrs. Robert Steiner (Meghan White ‘90) Mr. and Mrs. Gary Stengle Mr. Andrew M. Sterling Mr. and Mrs. Larry Strauss Ms. Molly M. Stringer ‘95 Mr. and Mrs. Jesse S. Sukhu Ms. Renee Szeliga Dr. Anthony Tanona and Mrs. Lindsey Tanona Mr. and Mrs. Jason W. Tartaglia ‘06

John Mede and Marisol Tejera-Mede Mr. Thomas Tenerovich Mr. and Mrs. Randy Thomas Mrs. Kimberly Tuttle Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Tylander Franziska and Nicolai Urban Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Wagor The Wendler Family Mr. Jack White and Mrs. Helene Olsson-White Mr. and Ms. Graham Wik Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Winters Mrs. Kristen Work Mr. Michael Yannotta Dr. Renea M. Yates and Mr. Travis C. Yates Mrs. Marci L. York and Mr. Michael Personnaz Ms. Heather Young *deceased

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IMPACT I GRADE CHAIR RECEPTION

Annual Fund Grade Chair Reception The Annual Fund Leadership team met on August 30 to kick-off this year’s Annual Fund. The event was underwritten by TBS parents, Peter and Stacey Baytarian and hosted aboard the floating sales office of the Nautilus 220. We are incredibly grateful to the Annual Fund Leadership team, led by Tom and Kristie Zaccagnino and Chris and Meghan Hurley, as they are an essential part of helping raise the funds needed for the school’s operating budget each year. The Annual Fund Leadership plays a crucial role in helping increase parent participation in the Annual Fund.

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Tom and Kristie Zaccagnino

Chris and Meghan Hurley

Shelby and Kyle Crockett

Preston and Julie Lemanski

GRADE CHAIR RECEPTION I IMPACT

Britta and Brett Fairclough

Kimberly and Robert Gimson

Parent participation in the Annual Fund is crucial for our school accreditation process and when securing grants from outside foundations.

Lisa Interlandi and Sara Misselhorn

Matt and Ashley Konecky

Suzy Tomassetti and Courtenay Peyovich

Lauren and Mike McCully

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IMPACT I SPECIAL GIVING INITIATIVES

SPECIAL GIVING INITIATIVES

In addition to the Annual Fund, The Benjamin School periodically raises funds for special initiatives as determined by the school’s strategic plan for the benefit of current and future generations of students. These major gifts of $25,000 or more are for projects that include upcoming capital improvements and endowment initiatives.

Listing includes pledges and pledge payments of $25,000 or more made to campaign and endowment starting July 1, 2022 through December 15, 2023.

$1,000,000+

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$500,000-$999,999

Anonymous Michael and Kimberly Narlinger

Mr. and Mrs. Peter Baytarian, Adrianna Baytarian ‘34, Nicolette Baytarian ‘35 Andrew and Michelle Reutter

$250,000-$499,999

$100,000-$249,999

Anonymous Jason and Kristin Brauth Collis Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Joseph A. Costa Goldman Sachs Gives Lisa and Eric Glasband The Slayton Family Foundation Mr. Justin H. Green and Mrs. Jenny Slayton-Green Astrid and Matt Womble Aaron and Kimberly Yeary

Rich and Tiffany Augustyn The Berger Family - In Memory of Ken and Cole Berger Mrs. Nicole M. Bessette Jillian and Robert Cleveland The Dunning Family The Klein Parthemer Family Steve and Brie Oliveira Darrell and Kori Searcy Chris and Christine Sorenson David and Amity Swank The Smith Brothers Family Foundation

$50,000-$99,999

$25,000-$49,999

Anonymous David and Sara Badham The Doane Family Donor Advised Fund at the University of Notre Dame Randy and Rebecca Doane Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund Paul and Danielle Lawler Propp Family Foundation Marni and Morris Propp Mr. and Mrs. Heath C. Odom

Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan D. Diamond Mr. and Mrs. David Faus John and Rebecca Kujawa

SAFETY AND SECURITY I IMPACT

Call From The Heart Bolsters Safety And Security At TBS

BY JUAN CARLOS FANJUL ‘93 P’36 At Benjamin, priority #1 is that our students learn in a caring and nurturing environment which encourages their pursuit of knowledge and prepares them to meet the world boldly. Producing leaders in and out of the classroom is a visible aspect of the TBS culture, but behind the scenes the School also prioritizes and takes the lead in making sure Buccaneers never have to think about their safety while learning.

“We want our students to feel safe at school but also not be in a sterile environment for such a large part of their days,” said CFO/COO Leslie Downs.

As part of the most recent strategic plan, the School is constantly evaluating and addressing safety and security needs.

“The School is investing in enhanced safety and security because we know that the safety of our students and staff is more important than anything else to each of our parents and it is to us. Parents trust us to take care of their children. Anything that we can do to make the Benjamin School a safer environment is of utmost importance,” said Head of School Dave Faus.

In the last year, TBS has taken a variety of steps to enhance safety measures. The School increased the budget for armed security guards so that it can continue to attract the very best and add more guards when needed.

“All of our officers are former police officers or from the military. Each is chosen based upon their temperament and experience with children,” added Downs who oversees the contract with the company Tactical Security.

In addition, after extensive consultation with safety experts, TBS started the process of enhancing the security camera network on both campuses. These next-generation cameras have Artificial Intelligence built in. The A.I. can detect a weapon, threatening posture and contains facial recognition– all automatic notification features received by our guards.

“The goal here is to allow for real time alerting in the event of any suspicious activity, enabling immediate response from security staff,” said Chief Technology Officer Russ Tepper.

This follows the installation of new access device mechanisms at all entry points which require double verification. In other words, a school staffer has to now swipe their key card and enter a pin number mitigating concerns about lost or stolen access cards.

In addition, new digital walkies have been purchased with enhanced range and encrypted transmission.

“It was our plan to invest in these security measures and others regardless of cost, but we are grateful the

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IMPACT I SAFETY AND SECURITY school community stepped up to help us defray some of these vital measures,” said Faus.

school students and their parents on how to mitigate cyberbullying and practice better digital citizenship.

Last year’s BASH “Call From The Heart’’ raised a record-breaking $661,000 for safety and security. The success of the appeal was due in part to the School’s holistic approach to safety and security which also prioritized student online and emotional safety.

“This opens up conversations at home and is another means of reinforcing Benjamin’s strong parent/ teacher partnership,” said Susan Poncy, Director of Students Services PK-3 through 8th grades.

Tepper adds that that the campus internet filter, Securly Aware, has been upgraded to detect signs of self-harm, suicide, depression and bullying. The latter is a problem the School has also addressed by bringing in speakers to campus who address both students and parents.

Most recently, top internet safety expert Richard Guerry talked about how a child’s digital footprint can be public and permanent. He offered solutions in age appropriate sessions to lower and middle

At the Upper School, U.S. Attorney General prosecutor Greg Schiller spoke about learning how to protect students’ personal information, inappropriate content and provided real-life examples of the consequences of online actions– bolstering what is also taught in the classroom.

“Students are taught how to be responsible digital citizens who reflect the School’s 12 values both off and online. This instruction not only covers bullying but also teaches students how to stand up for others who may be bullied. In the event that bullying does take place, the Administration investigates the circumstances,” said Poncy added that teachers attend the sessions as well as workshops presented by the Anti Defamation League which include cyberbullying.

Leadership donors Michael and Kimberly Narlinger, parents of Sadie in 1st and Ollie in Pre-K4, invested $200,000 in the Safety and Security Call From The Heart.

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“Kimberly and I know that nothing is more important than the on-campus physical safety of all Benjamin students, faculty, and administrators. In addition, providing tools and training to help students and parents navigate the ever changing landscape and potential safety threats of social media, including online bullying, will continue to become a more prominent need to help protect student mental health.”

LOWER/MIDDLE SCHOOL CAMPUS 11000 Ellison Wilson Road North Palm Beach, Florida 33408 561.626.3747

UPPER SCHOOL CAMPUS

4875 Grandiflora Road Palm Beach Gardens, Florida 33418 561.472.5998

ACCREDITATIONS

Florida Council of Independent Schools Florida Kindergarten Council SACS CASI, an accredited division of AdvanceED Southern Association of Independent Schools

The Benjamin School Strives to attract and support a diverse and talented student body, faculty and staff.

Applicants for admission or employment will not be denied based on race, creed, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, or disability.