BERKSHIRE B U L L E T I N Class Notes Edition Winter 2019
e Date
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ON REUNI ND W E E K E 019 –9, 2 JUNE 7
Celebrate the classes of ’4s and ’9s! See who’s coming and register today! www.berkshireschool.org/reunionweekend or contact Jodi Rathbun at 413-229-1308 • jrathbun@berkshireschool.org
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Berkshire Bulletin
BERKSHIRE
Class Notes
B U L L E T I N C L A S S N O T E S E D I T I O N • W I N T E R 2 0 19 OUR MISSION Rooted in an inspiring natural setting, Berkshire School instills the highest standards of character and citizenship and a commitment to academic, artistic, and athletic excellence. Our community fosters diversity, a dedication to environmental stewardship, and an enduring love for learning. Chip Perkins ‘73, P’14,’14
From the Archives
CHAIR, BOARD OF TRUSTEES
The Chevalier Senior Lodge, A Rededication Stephanie Y. Chevalier
Pieter Mulder P’22 HEAD OF SCHOOL
Carol Visnapuu DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS
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1959–1977
“Stephanie showed us that it is not the length of one’s life that is important, but the quality of it.” —Amy Waldo ’77 On Friday, September 28, 2018, the Berkshire community, the Board of Trustees, and friends of the School came together for the rededication of the Chevalier Senior Lodge in memory of Stephanie Y. Chevalier ’77. The above quote from Stephanie’s classmate, Amy Waldo, is inscribed on a plaque in the lodge commemorating the October 1978 dedication and naming of the building in Stephanie’s memory. The Chevalier Senior Lodge, formerly known as the “faculty shack,” was rebuilt in the summer of 2018 in its exact location after the 90-yearold structure deteriorated beyond simple repair. Berkshire used natural materials such as wood, stone, and steel in an effort to replicate the materials that were available at the time of the building’s original construction in the 1930s. The interior houses the original fireplace and the refurbished wood stove, which stands in the hearth. The lighting fixtures were repurposed from the hallways and the dining hall of Memorial Hall. This fall, the 700-square-foot Chevalier Senior Lodge began serving as a as tech-free, place-based classroom to support Berkshire’s environmental science and sustainability courses. You can read more about the history and the current use of the Chevalier Senior Lodge in the upcoming Summer 2019 issue of the Berkshire Bulletin. To read past issues of the Berkshire Bulletin.
AND MARKETING
Bulletin Editor: Megan Tady FREELANCE EDITOR
Class Notes Editor: Katie Kutney ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT
Class Notes Coordinator: Sue Delmolino Ives P’15 Design: Hammill Design Principal Photography: Berkshire School Alumni, Former Faculty, and Friends Class Notes: www.berkshireschool.org/classnotes All other alumni matters: alumni@berkshireschool.org Published by Berkshire School’s Communications and Marketing Office and Office of Advancement for alumni, parents, and friends of the School. Cover and Page 3 Chevalier Senior Lodge by Gregory Cherin Photography
Go Green! To receive an electronic issue only of our 2019 year-in-review edition of the Berkshire Bulletin coming this summer, contact bulletin@berkshireschool.org.
Class Notes 1939
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Bob Kieve writes: “Although I still go to the office daily, I am clearly on the last lap. I intend to sell one of our remaining two radio stations some time before the end of the year. Except for a bad back, I am in pretty good shape at age 96. I remember my Berkshire days fondly and am grateful that they led to a Harvard education, during which I spent much of my time running the college radio station. I consider myself semi-retired, enjoying these last years of a wonderful life that is made happy by a loving daughter. And all of that I trace to two highly influential years at Berkshire.”
1944
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1951 John B. Hull III 413-528-1528
1953 John G. Cluett jcluett@aol.com
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James McCurrach writes: “Just wanted to let my classmates know that I am still full-time teaching. I currently am working with fifth-grade students in a nearby school district. I am also doing some tutoring on the side. Pretty good for an 84-year-old ‘bird.’”
1945
1954
Philip W. Goodspeed 616-949-1949
1956
1948
Daniel C. M. Crabbe dan.crabbe@comcast.net
George Church III 413-448-6199
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1949
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Robert W. Doyle, Sr. robertwdoylesr@gmail.com
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Moe England writes: “I am living at Kimball Farms retirement community in Lenox, MA, enjoying all the culture that the Berkshires has to offer. Instead of active sports, I now find time to play bridge poker. I get back to Berkshire for an occasional event, such as the Renzi hockey benefit, and get together with Bob Doyle and Ben Davenport. We lost one of our quartet, Rollie Schopp, in April. It is a far cry from my last 30 years starting the craft beer movement, so if any alumni are in the 4
area, please give me a call at Kimball Farms and we will have a cellartemperature craft beer and reminisce about old times.”
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Woody Osborne writes: “I just returned from a wonderful 130th birthday gathering (my 80th, my older daughter’s 50th) with children and grandchildren on the Oregon coast. Jane and I have lived on the coast of Maine for over eight years now, and I have been retired for seven years—all hard to believe. We remain active—sometimes too active— in various local endeavors. Best to all.”
To volunteer to be a class agent or nominate a classmate, please contact Jen Nichols ‘87, director of alumni relations, at jnichols@berkshireschool.org
or call 413-229-1223.
improved everything about higher education in Colorado. Our hats are off to Bruce for a job well done. Even though I am not walking very well, I’m embarking with Page on three major international trips in 2019. Tanzania and Rwanda in January; Dalmatian Coast in June–July; and then to Australia in October. After all that, this may be the last time you hear from me.”
1958 Benjamin J. Rosin benrosin@aol.com
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Richard H. Elias meliasltc@yahoo.com
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Dick Elias writes: “In June, Marge and I returned from our 50th anniversary cruise around the Hawaiian Islands. A wonderful trip, and we received many congratulations from our fellow passengers and their generous gifts of wine and dinner desserts. There were a few other 50-year celebrants.”
1960 Stephen P. Norman steve@spnormanco.com
1957 William Kirtz cbkirtz@gmail.com
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Walt Henrion writes: “Bruce Benson is retiring after more than 10 years as president of the University of Colorado. He is hailed as having significantly Joe Salembier ‘60 in the Solomon Islands with friends
Class Notes
A LIFE IN RADIO At 97 years old, Bob Kieve ’39 still reports to the office. BY MICHAEL HAYES
Every day, 97-year-old Bob Kieve ’39 comes to work as the president of Empire Broadcasting in San Jose, Calif., which operates 1590 KLIV AM and 95.3 KRTY. Kieve says staying active professionally has kept him young at heart and mind. “Some people say, ‘Wow! You still go to the office?’” says Kieve, who has owned and operated the stations for 51 years. “My response is: Going to the office is what I do. I’ve always enjoyed what I’m doing, and I’m still doing it although I’m now really at the very end of it. It has been a wonderfully diverse and exciting career.” Kieve still writes and delivers the occasional radio commentary and is deeply involved in presiding over the station’s real estate, as well as leading an effort to sell one of his stations, KLIV, which had its last broadcast at the end of January. Because of Kieve’s deep commitment and service to his community throughout his career, city officials recently declared December 9 as “Bob Kieve Day.” After discovering radio as a freshman at Harvard University, where he earned a degree in English literature in 1943, Kieve’s professional career began when he was sent to the U.S. Embassy in Spain to serve as an information officer for the Office of War Information. “I was the one-eyed man in the country of the blind—at least in the field of radio broadcasting,” he says. “I was able to produce about five of my own shows every week, and I wrote Spain’s first book on radio broadcasting.” When he returned to the United
Bob Kieve ‘39 (far right) broadcasts for KRTY during a Chamber of Commerce fundraising barbecue in 2018.
States, Kieve worked at radio stations in upstate New York and later as a writer for CBS in New York City. In between, he spent four years as a writer “of all sorts” for the Eisenhower administration. Eventually, the Weehawken, New Jersey native settled in Silicon Valley and started Empire Broadcasting Corporation, which has bought, sold, and operated six radio stations since 1967, including KLIV and KRTY. Today, as Kieve reflects on a long and distinguished career in radio and public service, he can’t help but hold a special fondness for Berkshire School. Kieve credits his father for recognizing that he needed more structure
and challenge, suggesting he attend Berkshire. His father was right; Kieve excelled academically and athletically for two years. He distinctly remembers the excitement of winning three events during a track meet with The Hotchkiss School: the 100m race, 220m race, and broad jump. “Berkshire was really a turning point in my life,” Kieve says. “All of a sudden, I went from being a kid with poor grades who was involved with nothing outside of school to being editor of the student newspaper, running track and field, and becoming deeply involved in the drama club. And while I am deeply grateful to my father, I am grateful also to Berkshire.”
Class Notes Edition • Winter 2019
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Class Notes
1961
1964
Peter R. Kellogg pkellogg@iatre.com
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Bill Klingenstein writes: “This fall, Tim Warrener, Garry Morfit, Dick Meystre, George Beebe, and I met at Hudson Farm in Andover, NJ, at the invitation of our classmate, Peter Kellogg. We had a delicious lunch and then proceeded to a gun range at the farm to see if any of us could hit a target … some did and some didn’t. That afternoon we took a very peaceful boat ride on the lake. Cocktails and a gourmet dinner followed. We all stayed up too late to solve all the problems of the world. The following day, Peter surprised us with a helicopter ride to Wall Street for lunch at the very old and exclusive Anglers’ Club. It was a fabulous two-day reunion that we will never forget!”
John Hendrie writes: “Relocated from Boston area to Simi Valley, CA, last year. Eldest son, Nate, lives in Los Angeles, CA, as does my lovely wife’s (Kathie’s) son and two sisters. I am a proud grandfather of two. Youngest son, Tyler, operates a restaurant, Comma, in Shanghai, China. I do like the weather and state’s attitude—what starts in California …” Ken Morris writes: “I had two grandchildren born in 2017: one to my son, Ian Morris ’96, now a 15-monthold boy, and the other to my daughter and her husband, who just turned one year. We’re off to Europe in 2019 with this horde. Still practicing law. Someone has to pay the bills. Anyone interested in going out on a sloop in 2019?”
1965
Pete Richardson writes: “I enjoyed reading about the squash program, its new advisor, and the new courts in the last issue of the Bulletin. The School continues to amaze me! I remember in my senior year, for some reason, I went down into the workout rooms (for wrestling) and was amazed to discover the rooms were actually lined (and telltale) for handball and squash. I found out that some of the tennis team members (Len Grace, for one) played also. I asked my mother to mail my racquet; we started a club and started playing other schools in the area with the help of one of the masters. I always wondered what had happened with the squash club after that year. Congratulations!”
Gordy Crawford writes: “I have recently donated my private Olympic memorabilia to the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Foundation. The collection has a complete set of Olympic torches dating back to the 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin, Germany, when the first torch relays occurred. In addition, I have donated a complete set of winner’s and participation medals, from every Summer and Winter Games going back to the 1896 Games in Athens, Rome. The United States Olympic Committee will be loaning items of the collection to the Olympic Museum that is set to open in 2020.” ______________________________ To read more about Gordy Crawford’s generous gift, click here. ______________________________
1962
Alex Walsh writes: “In July 2018, my son, Nicholas W. Walsh, with two other partners and myself, was pleased to announce the formation of our four-partner, independent wealth management firm, TowerPoint Wealth
Andrew S. Berkman aberkman@cpny.com
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Berkshire Bulletin
Management, in Avon, CT. I intend to work for at least another five years before retirement and consider myself fortunate to be able to. I have resumed painting, but only on Sundays! And so it goes ...”
1966 Harlan J. Swift, Jr. timswifty@gmail.com
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Jim Hadley writes: “I was presented with the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award by Marquis Who’s Who. See press release: https://www.24-7pressrelease.com/ press-release-service/456631.”
1967 F. Woodson Hancock III whancock3@aol.com
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Dan Griggs writes: “I skippered the yacht Tango in Blue in the 333-mile 2018 Chicago-Mackinac Race to a firstplace finish in Section 3. It was a very difficult race with heavy winds and big seas. Unfortunately, a fellow Mackinac sailor, Jay Santarelli, was lost overboard on another yacht.”
At the helm of Tango in Blue, Dan Griggs ’67 approaches the finish line at the ChicagoMackinac Race from Illinois to Michigan.
Class Notes
1968 L. Keith Reed lkreed.mt@gmail.com
1969
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Kent S. Clow III ksc3@msn.com
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K.C. Clow writes: “The Class of 1969 has started planning our 50th reunion in June. We are hoping for a record turnout!” Chris Willets writes: “I’m looking forward to attending my 50th reunion in June. My wife, Chris, and I have lived in Goodland, FL, for the past two years. We are enjoying retirement and family who live in the area. It’s been a lot of fun getting in touch with a great many former classmates. I read the article in the last Bulletin concerning how food and healthy eating has affected and been embraced by the Berkshire community. I feel that culinary arts should be offered in secondary school. In Europe it’s taught as a true profession and emphasized much earlier than in the U.S.”
1970 Robert L. W. McGraw blackrockfarm@hotmail.com
1971 Kevin J. Bruemmer kevin.bruemmer@gmail.com
1972 John Y. G. Walker III jwalker2353@gmail.com
David Peck ‘75 (left) led a mountain bike ride on Lone Peak in Big Sky, MT. The group included Neil Peck (right), Mark Sullivan ‘78 (center), and Neil’s son, Olin. This epic ride ended with lunch at the Hungry Moose and fly fishing on the Gallatin River.
1973 Leon J. Weil, Jr. jerryweil.tennis@gmail.com
1974
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Louise A. Clement luluinsf2005@yahoo.com
1975 Joseph M. Fusco joe@techworkers.com
Frank Potash writes: “During a quick Amsterdam/Brussels/Paris trip last May, we emailed Marianne Hubert Stein (former Berkshire French teacher and department chair in the ’70s; first female teacher at the School) to say we were in town, and voilà! She drove in to Brussels, gave us a quick driving tour and then ‘un petit voyage’
Frank Potash ‘75 and former faculty member Marianne Hubert Stein at the Napoleon Bonaparte statue in Waterloo, Belgium
to Waterloo to see the sights, her home, and to meet her husband, Maurice. Une belle journée!”
1976 Stephen H. Hassett shasse01@gmail.com
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REUNION 2019 JUNE 7–9 Welcoming back ’4s and ’9s!
Cary Weil Barnett writes: “It was so nice to run into classmate Kevin Jones in late September when attending the somber and touching rededication of Class Notes Edition • Winter 2019
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Class Notes
the Chevalier Senior Lodge on campus. Kevin still has the charming southern lilt to his accent and the same gentle manners, just no more long dark hair down to his shoulders. The Chevalier Senior Lodge is just gorgeous, at once peaceful and exotic, as Stephanie was. Forever young and in our hearts!”
1978 Birney B. Boehland birney@hummerdrinks.com
1979
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Robert D. Thomas bthomas@wwsg.com
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Susie Norris writes: “Calling all members of the Class of 1979—let’s return to the Mountain for our 40th reunion in June. Bob Thomas and I are working toward a good turnout. See you there!”
1980 Kimberley C. Fuchs kcfuchs@silvershieldfoundation.org
Tony Scheinman writes: “My eighth audiobook, The Black Castle (book I of The Don Sebastian Vampire Chronicles) by Les Daniels, has been completed and is now on sale. I have appeared on two episodes of the Adult Swim series Mostly 4 Millennials.”
1982 Anthony P. Addison doubleany1@gmail.com Thomas B. Fahy, Jr. bfahy44@gmail.com
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Wags Berl writes: “Hello to all my classmates. I am living in Chapel Hill, NC, applying for work, and teaching English. I would like to hear from anyone around. Thanks. I had a son, Christopher Ennalls Dominic Berl, born on February 18, 2018.”
Steven P. Veronesi sveronesi@cox.net
1983
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Karen Schnurr Secrist karensecrist6@gmail.com
Vero Veronesi writes: “My son, Keith Veronesi ’10, enjoyed his first full season as a hockey operations assistant with the Vegas Golden Knights. The Knights made it to the Stanley Cup finals but ultimately lost to the Washington Capitals. I had numerous visits to Las Vegas to take in all of the excitement.”
Debra Drucker druckerdeb@yahoo.com
1981
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Sue Ann Stanton sa.stanton@gmail.com
Lindsey Fielder Cook writes: “I wish you all well and a free meal if traveling through Bonn, Germany. I visit my mom in Sheffield, MA, each year and show my children Berkshire, which now seems more equipped than a 8
college! I continue working on climate change issues, internationally and with grassroots efforts, to transform our lives and politics. Berkshire has been visionary with solar, and I am thankful.”
Berkshire Bulletin
1984
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Dan Griffin ’85 in Vellore, India, with some of the children he met while working there
infectious disease/tropical medicine at Columbia University doing lots of overseas remote care (India, Cambodia, Thailand, Peru, Panama, the Dominican Republic, Malawi, Uganda, etc.). I am the president of www.parasiteswithoutborders.com (Getting knowledge to the people and places that need it the most!) and one of the hosts of the podcast This Week in Parasitism. Lots of sailing and my youngest is running cross country! The girls are in high school and my advice to them is, ‘Keep out of trouble, and if you can’t do that … don’t get caught.’” Shawn Ingram writes: “Jed Scala, Lionel Shaw, and I attended a recent EACH Foundation advisor meeting.
1985 Lionel A. Shaw lionel_shaw@yahoo.com
Dan Griffin writes: “Hello classmates! I am married to wife, Jessica; have three kids: Daisy (17), Eloise (16), and Barnaby (13); two dogs (a cocker spaniel who barks too much and a service dog—raising for Canine Companions); am living in Port Washington, NY; and working as a physician-scientist (M.D.–Ph.D.) in
1985 classmates Jed Scala, Lionel Shaw, and Shawn Ingram at a recent EACH Foundation meeting
Class Notes
With support from Lionel (its founder) and advisors Jed and myself, EACH Foundation allocates funds and supports financial aid scholarships at Berkshire.”
1986 Rhonda M. Bentley-Lewis r.b.lewis@hotmail.com Lara Schefler McLanahan lara.mclanahan@gmail.com
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Peter Alternative writes: “On a beautiful weekend in September, a group of ’86ers enjoyed our annual ‘mini’ reunion under the Mountain. Justin Miazga, Jeff Horton, Erik Zimmerman, Tony Clifford, and myself enjoyed mountain biking with faculty brats Andrew and Erik Miller, sons of Stuart Miller ’97 and Kristina Thaute Miller ’97. A South Pinnacle hike was made eventful thanks to a wrong turn(s) and we had dinner with Sabina Curti and faculty members Bebe Clark Bullock and Bill Bullock in Great Barrington, MA.”
Tony Clifford ’86, Jeff Horton ’86, Peter Alternative ’86, and Erik Zimmerman ’86 enjoyed mountain biking at Berkshire.
Megan McDonnell Boyle writes: “Happy to report that our youngest son, Henry Boyle ’21, enrolled as a tenth grader this fall at Berkshire alongside many other classmates’ and alumni’s kids!”
1987 Janna Klyver Cord jannacord@aol.com Jennifer Nichols jnichols@berkshireschool.org
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Elvia Gignoux writes: “I am a real estate agent with William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty. I have been selling real estate for over 18 years in Litchfield County, CT, and the Berkshires. I live with my partner on a farm in Salisbury, CT. In my free time, I enjoy arranging flowers and riding my horses and mules.” Graham Goff writes: “This past summer my son, Benjamin, and I participated
Jeff Horton ’86, Tony Clifford ’86, Peter Alternative ’86, Justin Miazga ’86, and Erik Zimmerman ’86 at Berkshire in September
in the 2018 Trans Am Bike Race, completing the 4,200-mile course in 35 days. The race follows the TransAmerica Bicycle Trail from Astoria, OR, to Yorktown, VA.” Kirk Kellogg writes: “Jen Nichols is in charge ... all is well.” Sarah Kloman writes: “I am the founder of 4th Floor Creative and creative partner at RJK Network, a NY-based strategic branding collective working within fashion and beauty.
My husband, Michael Smith, and I are living in Darien, CT. I am mother to three daughters: Eloise (18), a freshman at UVM; Alice (14), a freshman at Darien High School; and Lucie (9), in fifth grade at Hindley Elementary.” Joyce Kang Lee writes: “I have been living in Davis, CA, for the past 18 years, with my husband, Ken, and two boys, Dylan and Gabriel. Dylan is a junior at UC Berkeley and Gabriel is a junior in high school. Davis is a fabulous, small university town where Class Notes Edition • Winter 2019
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Class Notes
B
Calling the classes of ’74
’79
’44
’84
’44C
’89
’49
’94
’54
’99
’04
’69
’64
’59
’09
’14
The Matt Brand ’88 Challenge REUNION WEEKEND JUNE 7–9, 2019 Register by May 1! If 30 members of your class register and pay for Reunion Weekend by May 1, 2019, each classmate will receive a complimentary Berkshire School Yeti!
the boys were able to grow up biking to school and fishing in creeks. We visited Berkshire last year and realized once again how blessed I am to have spent time at a place so gorgeous.” John Marshall writes: “My son, Sam, is 21 and is just finishing college in Sydney, Australia. Wyatt (13) and Tess (11) are both in middle school. We sold our houseboat and are now living back on land in Mill Valley, CA. My business, Stella Capital, is finishing construction on a 53-bed assisted living and memory care facility in San Jose, CA.” Brad Matheson writes: “Hey folks, some big changes in the last couple years! Moved back to New Hampshire to help my parents as they get older, found my biological parents thanks to the help of my new bride, Anissa Guzman (we got married December 13, 2017!), and now we both work at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center. She is the director of nursing education and I am part of the Windows Systems team. Reach out if you are in the area and we can meet up for coffee and you can meet our newest addition, Hazel the labradoodle!” Blair Gawthrop Miller writes: “I’ve been working as a documentary film
Register for Reunion Weekend today by calling 413-229-1308, emailing jrathbun@berkshireschool.org, or by going online to www.berkshireschool.org/reunionweekend.
SEE YOU UNDER THE MOUNTAIN IN JUNE!
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Berkshire Bulletin
Thomas Maddock ’87 toured Alcatraz Island in San Francisco with his wife, Fran, and twin daughters, Lauren and Brooke (16).
Class Notes
Joe Roland writes: “Emily DeVoti ’89 and I have fled Brooklyn, NY, and returned to the Berkshires to raise our son, Fionn. We are happily settled in our new home in Great Barrington, MA.”
Rick Humphrey ’87, Wyndham Lewis ’87, Samuel Rockwell ’87, and Matthew Azar ’87
producer. My latest project is about the historic preservation movement, www. thepowerofplacefilm.com. My children (ages 10 and 13) keep my husband and me very busy—lots of horse riding and soccer. We went on our first family backpacking trip recently in the Gore Range, and we try and get out and enjoy Colorado all that we can. I don’t see Megan Steck Berg as often as I’d like but feel comfort knowing she’s just down the road. Hope all is well with everyone!” Jen Nichols writes: “Enjoying my new job here under the Mountain. Reconnecting with classmates in the area and hanging out (when tolerated) with our daughter, who is a senior at Berkshire, and our youngest, who is a freshman at Forman School in Litchfield, CT. I’ve learned that Janna Klyver Cord is working as a substance abuse counselor on the east side of Long Island, NY; that Megan Steck Berg moved to Colorado Springs, CO, in 2014 and is the senior associate general counsel for the fundraising team at the United States Olympic Committee; and that Alex Raby moved back to New York a year ago and is working at Starz. I’m looking forward to hearing and seeing more of you from 1987 and alums in general. Please come by the Advancement Office in the Kellogg Alumni Center when you are on campus. I’d love to see you.”
Jose San Roman writes: “Spent my early career in London, England, working in investment banking. Married Pilar in 2007 and have three kids: Amelia (10), Gabriel (6), and Aurora (2). We live in Zaragoza, Spain. I commute and run an animation studio in Madrid with 400 talented artists that just delivered Wonder Park, a 3D, family-kids feature film for Paramount Pictures. See trailer on YouTube. Company is called Ilion Animation Studios. Have traveled to Los Angeles, CA, every six weeks for the last seven years and still feel that it is the ‘Wild West’ there. I train for long-distance triathlons (just missed last one due to injury) and miss Berkshire trees, autumn colors, snow, maple syrup, English lessons, friends, squash ... and listening to Simon & Garfunkel. Hope to visit soon!”
1988 Anne E. Glaccum glaccume@gmail.com Scott M. Falso sfalso@gmail.com James D. Watt, Jr. jdwattjr@gmail.com
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Jeff Batten writes: “After teaching middle school science for 14 years, I have decided to pursue a Master of School Administration degree through the North Carolina State Principal Preparation program. I hope to graduate in May of 2020.” Scott Falso writes: “Matt Brand is an executive producer of the featurelength documentary Playing with FIRE out in early 2019. The film chronicles
Scott Falso ’88 and wife, Carol, in Paris, France, for their 20th wedding anniversary
the exploding global FIRE (financial independence, retire early) movement, which is spawning hundreds of thousands of early retirees in their 30s and 40s: www.PlayingwithFIRE.co. The 10th Annual Scooter Open was held at the Turning Stone Casino and Resort in Verona, NY. Steve Altman, Tom Maiden, Kirk Kellogg ’87, and I made the trip!” Jamie Watt writes: “My family has settled into life in Toronto, Canada, where we moved four years ago. We love life in Canada and recently obtained status as permanent residents. Please reach out if you’re ever in town. I’ve traded tech startups for a role at Accenture Canada, where I lead part of the analytics practice. Overall, life is good, though moving a little too fast. I’m
Jamie Watt ’88 at the Toronto Independent Film Festival in Canada Class Notes Edition • Winter 2019
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Class Notes
grateful to be connected in one way or another to many fellow Berkshire Bears. Loved spending time with treasured old friends at our 30th last June. Already looking forward to our 35th.”
given me the opportunity to enjoy the world of wine and food. Cheers!”
1989
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1991 John K. Fretz jfretz@bmedtech.com
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Andrew D. Allen andrewdrexelallen@gmail.com
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Andrew Allen writes: “To any and all Berkshire alumni who find themselves in France, I extend a warm invitation to my family’s two-Michelin-star restaurant in Paris, Le Clarence. I also joined Scott Falso ’88, Matt Brand ’88, and Steve Altman ’88 in celebrating Kirk Kellogg ’87’s 50th birthday at Atlantis in Paradise Island, Bahamas. Go Bears!”
Nina Bradley Clarke ’90 has a new podcast, Nina’s Got Good News.
Titus Stewart writes: “I live in Raleigh, NC, and work as a correctional officer. My daughter, Taylor Stewart, interviewed at Berkshire last fall. Definitely looking forward to attending our 30th reunion in June.”
1990 Natalie Bradley Clarke ninabclarke@gmail.com Natalie Dillon Rinaldi natdillon@gmail.com
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Nina Bradley Clarke writes: “Hi Berkshire Bears! I’m excited to share my new job with you all. I started my own podcast called Nina’s Got Good News. I’m sharing great stories and great people doing great things. You can find me on iTunes! I’d love ideas for future guests so please feel free to reach out. Thank you for all the support. Go Bears!”
Cheryl Connolly Lewis ’90 and Nat Dillon ’90 met up in July at the Rosé Mansion in New York City.
Berkshire Bulletin
Jeff Kovel writes: “I am living in Portland, OR, with my wife, Jen, and daughters, Lola (12) and Violet (9). I founded Skylab Architecture in 1999 and the Doug Fir Lounge (music venue) in 2004. Skylab currently is completing the Serena Williams Building, a 1 million square foot expansion at Nike’s headquarters.”
Cheryl Connolly Lewis writes: “I loved seeing the Berkshire Bulletin on alumni in the food and wine industries. I have had the pleasure of meeting and working with Christie Dufault ’89 out here in the Bay Area and dining at both of Christopher Kostow ’95’s restaurants in Napa Valley. Working for Wine Spectator magazine as the director of West Coast advertising over the past 15 years has
Connect with Berkshire 12
Sarah Kuhn Daniels writes: “This year, I celebrated my 16th year as a flight attendant for Southwest Airlines. In 2017, we had a big surprise when our daughter was born! She secured my husband’s plans to retire from the Army. After 28 years, Herb retired as a lieutenant colonel, United States Army Special Forces, and has taken on the duties of stay-at-home dad to our now 11-year-old son, Keeler, and our 18-month-old daughter, Ivy. I’m back to flying full time (which is three days a week!), so maybe I’ll see some of you at 42,000 feet!”
Aerial view of the 1 million square foot expansion expansion of Nike’s headquarters in Portland, OR, by Jeff Kovel ’91’s company, Skylab Architecture
Class Notes
Claude Stuart ’91, professional comedian, actor, and writer
Wendy Walker ’94, Ida Gustavson ’94, Kristin Burks Passerini ’94, Laura Hess Geiger ’94, Jen Galik-D’Annibale ’95, and Sarah Gee ’94 in San José del Cabo, Mexico
Claude Stuart writes: “I have been a professional comedian, actor, and writer living in Los Angeles, CA, for the last 20 years. I have appeared on The Tonight Show, That ’70s Show, Scrubs, The Late Late Show, and Comics Unleashed. I’m currently writing for the television show Funny You Should Ask starring Howie Mandel, Louie Anderson, Tiffany Haddish, and Jon Lovitz, and I star on Amazon Prime’s High Land Parking.”
pieces went on display at Larkin Arts in Harrisonburg, VA, last October. Others can be viewed at www.jdalyart.com. My family moved to Harvard, MA, in 2017, and fellow alums are always welcome at my home studio!”
1992 Abram W. Duryee III bduryee@hotmail.com
1993 Hilary Ivey Mueller hmueller@berkshireschool.org Tenley E. Reed tenley@mac.com
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John Daly writes: “After 12 years working in historic preservation as an industrial historian, I have left the field and returned to my first love— landscape painting. One of my large
David Ritter writes: “I am the director of team building and outdoor education at Bretton Woods Recreation Center outside of Washington, D.C., where I run team building for different departments of the International Monetary Fund World Bank and other World Bank umbrella companies. I have a daughter, Vivian (7), my adventure partner and son, Robert Roy Ritter (3 1/2), and my wife, Julie, who makes it all happen.”
1994
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Francis A. Blair francis.blair@gmail.com
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Sarah Gee writes: “While in New Orleans, LA, in March, I bumped into Toure Folks ’95 and Be Singer ’92. We had a great time catching
up while wandering around the beautiful city. Then, in June, Ida Gustavson summoned a bunch of Eipper girls down to San José del Cabo, Mexico, where she has lived for the past 15 years. We hadn’t all been in one place in about 20 years and we were instantly 16 again—for better or for worse! Wendy Walker, Kristin Burks Passerini, Laura Hess Geiger, Jen Galik-D’Annibale ’95, and I all ditched our families and spent five amazing days in the sun. It was so much fun that we are already planning our next jaunt south of the border, but not until 2020 as next spring we will be meeting under the Mountain for our 25th reunion! I hope everyone has already blocked those dates on their calendars because the thing about reunions is, the more people who show, the more fun it is!”
1995 Bradley P. Hunt bradley_hunt1313@hotmail.com
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Class Notes
1996 Julie A. Lemire juleslemire@gmail.com Katherine King Mahan katiecking@yahoo.com Dylan B. Mattes dylan.mattes.nyc@gmail.com
Javi Winnik writes: “I have finally written and illustrated a third book in my book series, A Reason to Smile! I’ve funded both books on Kickstarter and have the third book on there now. I am excited to be able to write and illustrate a book that my almost-2-yearold daughter can read and can’t wait to have it in her hands.”
Annie Chase Redman, Amanda Wheeler Ekster ’97, Lea Paine Clark ’95, Kristina Thaute Miller ’97, and Jennifer Wheeler Delvaglio ’95 celebrated Amanda’s baby shower for twin baby boys, graciously hosted at her aunt Annie’s home in Branford, CT, on September 23, 2018.
1998 Malinda L. Lareau mlaurenlareau@gmail.com Lauren A. Levin lauren98@aol.com
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Moe Sessoms writes: “I’m currently working as an assistant director on season three of Jessica Jones.” Cover of Javi Winnik ’96’s newest book, A Reason to Smile!
Jeff Soule writes: “Howdy Bears! Had a great visit back to the Mountain for Alumni Weekend last June. So great to see all the faces, new and old. The campus looked incredible. Only time for a short hike. Back soon. See you all at the events in New York City.”
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Michael D. Gutenplan michaelgutenplan@aol.com George S. Scoville III gscovillempp@gmail.com
______________________________ Lauren Lareau ’98 with former Governor of Pennsylvania Ed Rendell at a recent fundraiser held at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia, PA, hosted by the PA Blue Victory Fund 14
Berkshire Bulletin
Michael Gutenplan: “Hi everyone. I can’t wait to see you all at our 20th reunion this summer! All is well with me. I’m still performing magic around
Otis Wilson ’99 and Natalie Hooper ’01 at the annual Nike Leadership Summit
the world. You can learn more about my shows at www.themagicmentalist.com. Let me know if you’re in Los Angeles, CA, anytime so we can catch up.” George Scoville writes: “On May 12, I graduated from the University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law, where I served as editor-inchief of Volume 48, The University of Memphis Law Review. As a secondcareer lawyer, my journey in the legal profession began in August 2018 working as judicial law clerk to the Honorable Sheryl H. Lipman in the
Class Notes
George Scoville ’99 (third from left) with some of his Memphis Law Review colleagues at their graduation on May 12, 2018
United States District Court for the Western District of Tennessee. After the clerkship, I will return to Nashville to join Lewis, Thomason, King, Krieg & Waldrop, P.C. as an associate attorney.”
2000 Brooke Beebe Noble brookebeebe@gmail.com
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Jess Smith writes: “Hi all! I am currently living in Savannah, GA, working for the Savannah Airport Commission as the engineering administrator with hopes of getting my Professional Engineer (PE) licensure and directorship in the next few years. My husband, Andy Malphrus, and I celebrated our first wedding anniversary in October with a hiking trip to the mountains in North Georgia. I am hoping to see you at our 20th reunion in 2020. Andy and I are planning on it!”
2001 Shannon M. Flynn flynnshannonm@gmail.com Peter A. Kearney, Jr. pkearneyjr@gmail.com Philip A. Sandick phil.sandick@gmail.com
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Dre Horton ’01 is excited to graduate from Southern Methodist University in May 2019.
Italy. One hundred guests flew in from all over the world for a five-day celebration. It couldn’t have been more perfect, and we couldn’t be happier.”
2002 Jaclyn Brander Marshall jbrander@gmail.com
Natalie Hooper writes: “After not seeing him in person for almost 20 years, I ran into the amazing Otis Wilson ’99 at Nike’s annual Leadership Summit! Otis and I both work for Nike and are having an amazing experience. Berkshire is family. Pro Vita!”
Matthew P. Sposito matthew.sposito@gmail.com
Dre Horton writes: “I hope this finds everyone well. I’m graduating in May 2019 from Southern Methodist University and seeking a full-time position for MBA candidates in sales. You can connect with me on LinkedIn.”
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Caitlin Hettinger McNeill writes: “On June 23, 2018, Christopher ‘Kip’ Williams and I were married at Masseria Salamina in Puglia,
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2003 Jane Walker Blake janewblake@gmail.com Robert Morgan Ralph robertmralph@gmail.com
Libbie Alexander Haller writes: “Hey all! I’m living in Binghamton, NY, and am a science teacher and robotics coach. I love sharing my love of the sciences with students and making more nerds in this world. I married my best friend and partner in life, Tytus, on August 9 at the top of Gore Mountain in the Adirondacks with (continues on page 19) Class Notes Edition • Winter 2019
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Class Notes
Engagements & Weddings
2003 Alexia Christopher ’03, Jocelyn Cullison Sadler ’03, and Nicole Cormier ’03. Jocelyn writes: “Phil and I were married in Boston, MA, at the Boston Public Library, on September 15, 2018. It was such an amazing weekend shared with family and friends, including classmates Nicole Cormier and Alexia Christopher.”
1985
2001 Caitlin Hettinger McNeill ’01 at her wedding to Christopher “Kip” Williams on June 23, 2018, in Pezze di Greco, Puglia, Italy
Lionel Shaw ’85 writes: “Finally tied the knot with a Canuck named Lisa McKay on July 7, 2018.”
2003
2002 2007 Libbie Alexander Haller ’03 and Tytus Haller were married on August 9, 2018, on Gore Mountain in North Creek, NY.
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Oscar Leon Saez ’07 with wife, Rebecca, and daughter, Zoe—Oscar and Rebecca were married on July 14, 2018, at The Historic Post Office in Hampton, VA.
Matt Sposito ’02 got engaged to Sally Johnston on June 9, 2018, in New York City. One week later, they adopted Colonel Vesimo—a goldendoodle from Macon, GA.
Class Notes
Births & Adoptions
2007
2005
Zan Scala Christoferson ’07 and Adam Christoferson were married on June 14, 2018, in Portland, CT.
Kat Kollmer Gaudin ’05 and husband, Andrew, welcomed Zoe Kathryn Gaudin on February 16, 2018. She loves her big “bro” and is very much looking forward to Reunion Weekend in 2020!
2008
2010 Beuc Beucler ’10 and Taylor Mullholand got engaged on September 3, 2018, at the Nauset Lighthouse on Nauset Beach, Cape Cod, MA.
Brooks Britton Newhouse, son of Kati Cahill Newhouse ’08 and her husband, Andrew Newhouse, loved his first visit under the Mountain at two weeks old. Kati writes: “Brooks Britton Newhouse was born on August 30, 2018, weighing in at 8 lbs. 6 oz. and 21 inches long. He is a happy and healthy baby boy and we are so in love!”
Class Notes Edition • Winter 209
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Class Notes
TACKLING CLIMATE CHANGE Jeffrey Wexler ’06 invites Berkshire students to join the cause. BY MICHAEL HAYES
Last September, thousands of concerned citizens, environmental activists, scientists, and leaders from state and local governments descended on San Francisco, Calif., to attend the Global Climate Action Summit, hosted by California Governor Jerry Brown. Together, they heralded major achievements in climate action, and they outlined plans to nudge countries and companies to take climate change seriously. Also in attendance: four Berkshire students, thanks to an invitation from Jeffrey Wexler ’06, who serves as the Summit’s chief operating officer. Wexler says young people play a critical role in solving the problems related to climate change. “Berkshire School has long served as a leader in educating students about environmental stewardship, sustainability, and how individuals and institutions can effect change in their communities,” Wexler says. Wexler, who lives in Washington, D.C., has extensive experience helping to run large non-profit organizations. Prior to joining the Summit, he worked for the Democratic National Convention Committee and the U.S. Small Business Administration. “Every position that I’ve had has been in either politics or government,” he says. “When you work in those realms, you have a lot of different experiences, and they always come together in unique ways that you don’t always expect.” Climate action is possibly Wexler’s most important endeavor to date. “Climate change is obviously the
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Berkshire students and faculty were invited to the event by Jeffrey Wexler ‘06, chief operating officer of the Global Climate Action Summit.
largest existential threat that we face right now,” he says. “Unfortunately, none of the work that gets done now, or very little of it, has immediate or instant gratification. You have to do really hard, really good work now, to see results in 15, 20, or even 50 years.” Max Beadling ’20, who attended the Summit, understands that the stakes are high in tackling climate change. “It’s a super crucial moment if we’re going to try to turn things around. I feel like there’s a lot of hope.” Wexler, too, is “cautiously optimistic.” “Emissions will peak in 2020 if countries adhere to the commitments made as part of the Paris climate accords, but we are not on track to do this,” he says. “If we’re exceptionally aggressive, the hope is
that we could peak emissions by the late 2020s or 2030. There is a lot of good work being done, but ambition needs to increase across the board.” In the meantime, Wexler is working closely with the Secretary General’s Office at the United Nations to prepare for the UN 2019 Climate Summit, an event next September that will bring together world leaders to advance climate action. “This isn’t something that’s solved in one generation, or even in my lifetime,” he says. “It’s important we inform everyone about the work that needs to be done.” To learn more about Global Climate Action Summit
Class Notes
just our parents as witnesses, and it was perfect (though we’re planning a reception at a zoo in June)! We are the founders and masterminds behind the Binghamton Pond Festival, an outdoor pond hockey tournament (with refrigeration so Mother Nature can’t mess with our plans). We’d love to have any Bears come play in the tournament, so dig out your gear!” Alex Wenner and Emily EisenBerkeley Wenner write: “Hi classmates! In July, we moved from Brooklyn, NY, to Red Hook, NY, in the Hudson Valley. We have four kids: Logan (8), Lilly (7), Rosie Jane (5), and Elanor (2). We’re excited to announce that we’ll be spending the next year opening Lasting Joy Brewery in Tivoli, NY. Alex has been brewing professionally for the past eight years, and we can’t wait to get our own farm brewery off the ground. Amanda Cooley Donaldson blessed us with a couple of visits this year, and we hope to see some Berkshire Bears at Lasting Joy soon. In the meantime, stay updated on our progress on Instagram @thebrewingbrood. Cheers!”
Class of 2005 mini-Berkshire reunion, pictured from left to right: Nicci Unis Juengst; Court Jimeno-Miller with son, Vincente; Tara Albury; Johanna Becker with daughter, Evelyn; Sukey Mullany; and Shane Knapp
2004
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Faye Abrams Klein fayevklein@gmail.com William C. Stern wcstern1@gmail.com
Murph Murphy writes: “Able to merge my background in finance and culinary in my current profession as a food broker; couldn’t be happier with this position. Daughter, Nora, started kindergarten and is an absolute heart melter.”
Kraig D. Strong kskraigstrong@gmail.com
2005 Matthew G. Crowson, M.D. matthew.g.crowson@gmail.com
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Emily Eisen-Berkeley Wenner ’03 and Alex Wenner ’03 at Craft Beer and Brewing’s Brewery Accelerator in San Diego, CA, last summer
Matt Crowson writes: “Hi Class of 2005! I’ve landed at the University of Toronto, Canada, for a two-year stint in intensive training in ear surgery and cochlear implants. I’ve also had the opportunity to do a medical mission trip to Kenya, Africa, to provide ENT surgical procedures for disadvantaged rural Kenyans. The experience was rewarding but very humbling. If you find yourself in Toronto, please drop a line.”
GIVE TODAY!
Nora Murphy, daughter of Murph Murphy ’05, is ready for a fancy date night with dad.
Support Berkshire’s Annual Fund! Every gift supports a Berkshire experience. Class Notes Edition • Winter 2019
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Class Notes
ONE SUSTAINABLE BUILDING AT A TIME Engineer Kris Govertsen ’15 has blueprints for building responsibly—and her Pro Vita course will embolden students to protect the planet by changing how we construct and live in spaces. BY MEGAN TADY
It started with a building. Every day, Kris Govertsen ’15 walked past the construction site of the Bellas/Dixon Math and Science Center on campus, witnessing the scaffolding emerge and gaping at the guts of a building. It was like peering inside a body, at a skeleton with muscles and organs. “I got to see the foundation poured,” Govertsen says. “I got to see the bones go up. I had never seen the steel beams of a building because they’re usually covered up. When you look at a building, you see the windows, but you don’t see the HVAC, and you don’t see the pipes. You don’t see everything that actually makes the building work. Just every day, walking by, I got to see a little more of it come together.” And every day, her interest grew. “Watching the construction, I thought, ‘I want to do that. How do I do that?’” Govertsen was most inspired by Berkshire School’s commitment to sustainable building practices and Bellas/Dixon’s Certified LEED Gold status. The Center, which opened in 2012, integrates energy-
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Kris Govertsen outside of the Bellas/Dixon Math and Science Center—the building that inspired her passion
Class Notes
efficient features like passive solar heating and open grid ceilings with striking architecture that optimizes light and maximizes views. Govertsen not only saw the entire construction process, but she also took classes in the Center, including using a lab for an independent study to make biodiesel. “It inspired me to pursue multiple degrees in order to change the planet one sustainable building at a time,” she says. After Berkshire, Govertsen earned a B.S. at Clarkson University in civil engineering and is currently pursuing an M.S. in sustainable building systems and an interdisciplinary Ph.D. at Northeastern University while researching passive survivability. And all along, Bellas/Dixon has served as her touchpoint. “Every time we talk about integrated design in class, I always think of Bellas/ Dixon,” she says. “It’s my personal case study.” Now, she’s returning to campus to teach a Pro Vita course about sustainable design, titled, “Bears Being Better and Building Better: Introduction to Daily Sustainable Practices and Building Design,” and again, she’s using Bellas/Dixon as her inspiration. “I think it’s important for students to know, ‘Why did Berkshire build this building? Why is it LEED certified? And why is sustainability important? Not just to our school, but to our society, to our country, to our planet, and to you personally.’” A Terrible Winter Actually, it started with skiing. A competitive skier from the age of nine, Govertsen raced at Jiminy Peak in Hancock, Mass., and she saw the resort install its first wind turbine, named Zephyr, to reduce its carbon footprint and energy costs. “That winter after Jiminy Peak installed the turbine was one of the worst recorded winters in my
Kris Govertsen received the Frederica Clarkson Award at the Clarkson University 2018 commencement ceremony. This award is traditionally given to a top student in the graduating class. Photo courtesy of Clarkson University
“I think it’s important for students to know, ‘Why did Berkshire build this building? Why is it LEED certified? And why is sustainability important? Not just to our school, but to our society, to our country, to our planet, and to you personally.’”
experience,” Govertsen says. “It was so ironic to me that my ski area was making this movement for a sustainable future, and that same winter, the area had relatively light snowfall and an abundance of mixed precipitation, particularly ice. Not exactly the best of winters.” While the skiing gave her a window into climate change, it also introduced her to Berkshire School via her ski coach, John Borwick ’81, who coaches at the School. Head Coach Borwick told Govertsen that the School was trying to create an all-girls ski team. “I ended up going to Berkshire and joining that original all-girls ski team,” she says. “If you look at the trophy, I was the first-ever MVP of the all-girls ski team at Berkshire. That’s my little
Berkshire legacy.” For three summers, Govertsen and other Berkshire skiers traveled with Coach Borwick to Mount Hood in Oregon to continue their training. It was there that Govertsen saw more effects of climate change; the glacier was melting. “Mount Hood is my favorite place in the world,” she says. “To see the kind of effects that climate change has had on my favorite place breaks my heart. I want to try to do my part to save the skiing, as the sticker goes. A lot of people who are interested in winter sports are interested in sustainability, because that is going to be one of the first things to suffer as average global atmospheric temperatures increase.” As Govertsen prepares to teach her Pro Vita course, she marvels at how she’s come full circle. “Skiing got me into sustainability,” she says. “Then, skiing got me to Berkshire. Then, Berkshire blew up my interest in sustainability by introducing me to other source methods of renewable energy. The solar panel field across the street was the first solar field I’d ever seen. Then, seeing Bellas/Dixon and learning about LEED influenced what I’m studying in college.” And now, she’s coming back to campus to teach, partly to educate young people, and partly to pay homage to the school that had a powerful impact on her. “I am so grateful for going to Berkshire,” she says. “I thought my coursework at Berkshire was the hardest coursework I’ve had to date. It definitely prepared me.” Class Notes Edition • Winter 2019
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Class Notes
“Change is never going to be easy. If it was easy, it would be changed already. Someone has to ignite the change, so it might as well be you.”
Sustainability Isn’t Rude People are never going to stop building. But Govertsen, who earned her LEED Green Classroom Professional and LEED Green Associate certifications in 2017, wants people to build differently—better, actually, by safeguarding the planet. And she’s hoping that her Pro Vita course at Berkshire will embolden a younger generation to radically transform how we see buildings and how we build them. “When we build something, everything that we do is sacrificing something else,” she says. “We’re taking away the natural habitat of plants, animals, and organisms. We need to recognize that and understand our relationship with that ecosystem. It’s not unethical to build. But we need to integrate the built environment in such a way that it restores and regenerates the displaced or disrupted ecosystem instead of replacing it.” Govertsen is developing the Pro Vita course with the help of Science Department Chair Dr. April Burch, who expressed her excitement in welcoming Govertsen back to campus. “She and I share a special connection with Bellas/ Dixon, and I am eager to see how she 22
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weaves that connectedness, a real sense of place, into her Pro Vita class,” Burch says. “I have followed her career since she has left Berkshire and have been inspired by her dedication to the sciences. I expect to learn a great deal from her that week.” During the course, Govertsen says she wants to encourage students to think about personal responsibility and the environment. “We can build a beautiful building that is LEED or Energy Star certified, but if we aren’t cognizant of our usage, it’s still not going to perform as intended,” she says. “We might have low-flow fixtures in all the bathrooms with sensors, but if you keep your hands under them for 10 minutes, it’s still wasting water. I want to talk about all the technological opportunities for sustainability, but there are things we need to do on a personal level to make those technologies work.” She will also introduce students to an emerging building practice called “passive survivability,” which will allow homes and buildings to function without the assistance of human technology—especially as weather events like heat waves and floods increase, which cut people off from
electricity and clean water. “The Living Building Challenge is the next step, where buildings are going to produce or collect all of their water and energy from the building site,” she says. “These buildings will be the best of the best when it comes to sustainability. No technology crutches necessary!” In her Pro Vita course, Govertsen wants to see hands raised. Asking questions, she says, is the first step in changing the tide toward sustainable practices. “You need to go to facilities, faculty, and administrators and ask, ‘Are you using pesticides? What steps do we need need to take to become plastic free? What are we doing with our trimmings? Can we go paperless? Are we composting our tree limbs?’ It starts with questions, and it often starts with people outside of the system. Some people think sustainability is rude because we often find that sustainability asks experts to reevaluate the way do they do their job. It’s not rude.” Govertsen continues, “Often times an expert doesn’t see the opportunities for sustainable growth in their own system because s/he are too focused on completing the task and they require that outside perspective. They need a student to ask them questions so the conversation of sustainability can begin. Change is never going to be easy. If it was easy, it would be changed already. Someone has to ignite the change, so it might as well be you.”
Class Notes
2006
2009
Courtney J. Kollmer courtney.kollmer@gmail.com
Gregory T. Piatelli gpiatelli@gmail.com
Stephen W. Piatelli steve.piatelli@gmail.com
Molly L. Ryan mollyryan1024@yahoo.com
2007
Kelly J. Wallace kellyjwallace5@gmail.com
Casey A. Larkins casey.larkins@gmail.com
2010
Allison A. Letourneau letourneau.allison@gmail.com
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Evan Schneider writes: “After seven years of living and working in Chicago, IL, I decided to go back to school. In September 2018, I started an MBA program at the Copenhagen Business School in Denmark. I’ll be focusing on sustainability, responsible management, and social entrepreneurship.”
2008 Christopher J. Buonomo cjbuonomo@gmail.com Erica Ginsberg Murphy eginzie@gmail.com
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Charles B. H. Brey cbrey11@gmail.com Alexandra B. Colbert abcolber@gmail.com William R. Hearty wrhearty@gmail.com Christopher B. Landry landrycb@gmail.com Kelsey A. Markiewicz kelsey.markiewicz@gmail.com Shannon E. Nelson senelson913@gmail.com Tyler J. Reighley tyler.reighley@gmail.com Travis Yuan Shen shenyuan1991@gmail.com
Abigail I. Tufts abigail.tufts@gmail.com
Beuc Beucler writes: “In 2017, I packed up my beans and CharlieCard and left Boston, MA, to work for the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center hospital system. I work as an employee relations specialist and run a health and wellness program. I live in Williamsport, PA, which is home of the Little League World Series and where I met my fiancée, Taylor. We just bought a house because our two dogs, Sassy and Bella, insist on a lawn to suntan ... wedding coming in fall 2020.” Travis Yuan Shen writes: “Hello everyone! After four years of USC and three years at KPMG Los Angeles, I’m glad to say that I will move closer to the New England area and attend Columbia University to get my MBA, where I will be looking for opportunities to move into a private equity firm or recruit for an investment bank mergers and acquisitions team. I will be closer to campus, and I look forward to reconnecting with the faculty and students. I welcome the opportunity for anyone in New York to reach out and reconnect.”
2011 Arthur Copstein arthur.copstein@gmail.com John C. Krueger jckrueger19@gmail.com
Lace Burns ’11 in the hills bordering Lake Ruhondo in Rwanda, Africa, with Virunga National Park in the distance
Lace Burns writes: “In January 2018, I moved back to Rwanda, Africa, after a year living abroad in Malaysia. I’m currently teaching English as a Second Language full time in an international school in Kigali. It’s safe, clean, relaxed, warm, green, and high altitude here. I’m searching for more jobs in the development sector while preparing to apply for grad school. On the weekends, I mountain bike in the Virungas, go to my favorite poolside spots with friends, and spend time teaching Hatha yoga. Class Notes Edition • Winter 2019
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Class Notes
While I’m not teaching, I’m planning trips to see as much of this continent as I can! I hope to be here for the next few years and if you’re ever in this area of Africa, please connect!”
2012
2014
5th
Jacob A. Grant jkgrnt12@gmail.com Emily M. Hubbard emilymhubbard1@gmail.com Samuel G. Perkins samgperkins@gmail.com
Samuel C. Maher samuelcmaher@gmail.com
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Austin Brandt writes: “I graduated from the University of Michigan and have accepted a scholarship to go to the University of Michigan Graduate
Juliet E. Shatkin jes714@nyu.edu
2013 Wesley J. Lickus wlickus@icloud.com Harriet F. Waldron hattiewaldron@gmail.com
School of Public Health for a master’s in health service administration in the health management and policy department (#1 in the country). I will be applying for a dual degree this year to receive an additional Master of Business Administration at the Ross Business School at Michigan as well.” Allie Brazo writes: “I am currently living in New York City with Berkshire alum, Haley Bolton ’13. I graduated from St. Lawrence University in May 2018 and have since been working at Hearst Communications for Town & Country magazine.”
2015
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Jeffrey A. Erazo erazo.jeffrey@gmail.com
Kenz Ruh writes: “I work as the social media manager/entertainment partnerships strategist for a technology company called Holonis in San Diego, CA.”
Chelsea A. Leeds chelsea1101@gmail.com
Austin Brandt ’14
2016 Peter D. Bahr peterbahr97@gmail.com
STAY CONNECTED
Natalie C. Harrington natalieharrington17@gmail.com Lane W. Mayher lanemayher@gmail.com Karin M. Vantine kvantine@elon.edu
New Alumni App by EverTrue: Now accessible through any desktop, tablet, or mobile device. The Berkshire community is a powerful global network. Search for alumni by name, location, class year, or profession.
• Alumni directory search by name, class year, college, or company
Click here to learn more.
• Easy profile update
• Alumni nearby function: search by location and view results on a map • Social connections through Twitter, Facebook, and Venmo • Business connections via LinkedIn • School and alumni news and events
Anne M. E. van ’t Wout annemijnvtwout@hotmail.com
2017 Andrea L. Cass andrealaurencass@gmail.com Margaret P. Curran maggiecurran99@gmail.com Benjamin W. Dixon benwdixon@mac.com Juliana L. Kokot julielkokot@gmail.com
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Class Notes
2018
Former Faculty
Charlotte B. Childs charlottebchilds@gmail.com
Phil Jarvis writes: “I visited campus in June while visiting my daughter, Caitlin Jarvis ’99, who lives in Connecticut. In semi-retirement, I am an associate member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association and enjoying helping families in their U.S. boarding school search. I was most pleased to help one of my student clients from Vancouver enroll at Berkshire this fall! You can find details about my consultancy work at www.jarvisandassociates.com.”
Isabelle W. Maher Isabellewmaher@gmail.com Mohamed S. Omar moeagles11@gmail.com
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Charlotte Childs writes: “I am missing both my fellow Bears and Berkshire’s beautiful campus. Last month, I embarked on my four-year journey at St. Lawrence University. I am loving it. I am grateful to be one of the seven freshmen from Berkshire who decided to come to St. Lawrence because it’s nice to see a friendly, familiar face wherever I go. I have been working and helping out at a nearby farm, learning wonderful lessons from all my teachers, and meeting incredible members of this community. I stay in touch with many of my classmates from Berkshire and we constantly find ourselves reminiscing on all our favorite moments from the past couple years. I can’t wait to come back for a visit!” Izzy Maher writes: “All is well here at Skidmore College, though I miss everyone under the Mountain! The community here at Skidmore is amazing and reminds me very much of the friendly faces back at Berkshire. Last fall, I was super excited and lucky to act in the Skidmore Theater MainStage production of an original play that had never been seen before. It was definitely a rigorous process but a rewarding one for sure. Because of this project, I wasn’t able to take part in any a cappella or chorus groups last semester. I am, for sure, looking forward to getting involved this semester.”
Save the Date! Join us for an epic climb on Wednesday, April 17, 2019, as the entire Berkshire community comes together in support of our Annual Fund!
Former Admission Director and Interim Head of School at Berkshire Dr. Phil Jarvis visited campus to congratulate Andrew Bogardus in his new role as director of advancement.
All gifts, of all sizes, make a difference. Help spread the word by showing your giving spirit!
In April, former faculty members Richard Carter and Karl Stein met up in Vero Beach, FL.
For more information, please visit www.berkshireschool.org/support/odfb.
Class Notes Edition • Winter 2019
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Class Notes
PAY IT FORWARD BY ROBIN McGRAW ’70
“Giving back by paying it forward” is an expression many have heard before and a description of the way many of us already live. There are many ways to give back to your community, work, family, passion, and school by offering your energy, your time, your expertise, your work ethic, your spirit, your hope, and sometimes, even your money. Muhammed Ali once said, “Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on Earth.” I grew up in a family that encouraged my three brothers and me to help others; service was part of our DNA, and my brothers and I have all gone on to be active in and give back to the communities in which we live. Growing up Robin McGraw ’70 with his wife, Buzz in the late 1950s and ’60s, we were put to task by our mother, who kitchen while the School contributed involved us in a number of volunteer the money saved into scholarships. This opportunities when we were quite program worked for several years and the young, including working as volunteer feeling of accomplishment for me and orderlies in our local hospital in New others was very fulfilling. This is where Jersey where our mother volunteered. the seed of “commitment to service” From there, we became involved in our really took hold for me. high schools. In my different roles at Berkshire, For each of us, community service even as a current class agent, I always was a different journey. In my junior encourage our alumni to return to our and senior years at Berkshire School campus for any number of reasons, (which was all boys back then), I including to: attend a reunion, play in helped run the Student Scholarship an alumni game, teach a Pro Vita class, Committee. My classmates and I built watch a play, or participate in a seminar. a scholarship by working together as a Once under “the Dome,” you will decide class to raise funds to help inner-city for yourself how you, personally, can boys from New York City experience make a difference. I hope all of us strive Berkshire. My fellow students and I with the same goal in mind—to support cleaned the floors, painted corridors each student with an opportunity to and classrooms, and worked in the
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grow, learn, and flourish as part of this family. I speak regularly about the business of giving in a variety of different forums across the country. I always ask this question: “What is the difference between a donor and a philanthropist?” You may hear many answers. For me, it is simply that a donor is someone who gives money to a charity and lets the charity distribute the funds where best needed. The donor may not be vested in the outcome, emotionally or otherwise, and may or may not give again. A philanthropist, however, is someone who gives time, energy, expertise, and hopefully, money, to truly make a difference in something about which s/he cares passionately. A philanthropist encourages others who feel similarly to give back in the same way. My consistent message to our current students is to serve the community they live in today and serve this same community in the future. I encourage students to always remember the generosity of those who came before them—giving students the same opportunities they had. I encourage them to be willing to do the same when they have the ability to do so, standing shoulder to shoulder with me to support what they care about most. I’ve chosen to support Berkshire’s students by endowing a scholarship, which will provide students with financial need the opportunity to become a part of this family. This is how I pay it forward. How will you?
Class Notes
cameras and tripod in hand, “ My I roamed the Mountain and shot
”
As an alumnus, donor, parent of Berkshire graduates Maddie ’07 and Andi ’17, and past employee, Robin McGraw ‘70 is wholeheartedly committed to the students of Berkshire. His loyal support of soccer, hockey, field hockey, the Ritt Kellogg Mountain Program, lacrosse, and other programs has both an immediate and enduring impact on life under the Mountain. Dedicated to engaging his fellow alumni and parents with Berkshire, Robin is a class agent and member of the Godman Society who has served on the Parents’ Committee, chaired class reunions, and long championed alumni games. Most recently, Robin made a lead contribution toward the Bear Tribute Sculpture and Arthur C. Chase Endowed Chair in English in memory of the original ‘Berkshire Bear’ Art Chase. We are grateful for his many contributions that honor all Berkshire Bears, past, present, and future.” —Andrew Bogardus Director of Advancement
scores of photos of Glenny Brook. This helped me gain entry into Rhode Island School of Design. Now at the other end of my career, I am deeply honored to be the artist on this enduring symbol for the School. The sculpture embodies the spirit of all Berkshire Bears who came before, those here now, and those to come.” —Mark Richardson ’73, Sculptor
Join us for the unveiling of the Berkshire Bear Tribute Sculpture in honor of Art Chase. Saturday, June 8 of Reunion Weekend 10 a.m. | Buck Valley
As an extension of the Bear Tribute, a group of alumni and friends is raising support to establish the Arthur C. Chase Endowed Chair in English. For more information and to add your support, visit berkshireschool.org/chase.
Class Notes Edition • Winter 2019
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In Memoriam
In Memoriam The Berkshire School community extends its sincere condolences to the families of the following alumni and friends of the School. Click here to view the obituaries for those listed below. To send obituaries or remembrances of classmates or family members, please email bulletin@berkshireschool.org.
1942
1953
1960
David C. Jones September 2, 2018
Ralph M. Kaplan November 17, 2018
Milo D. Folley, Jr. October 5, 2018
1950
1957
Charles K. Elliott, Jr. July 15, 2018
Thomas H. Conway November 14, 2018
George G. Francis November 13, 2018
1952
1959
James S. Kaufman July 23, 2018
Richard H. Elias November 10, 2018
A note to our readers: The list of names for the In Memoriam section is reported from June 10, 2018, through December 31, 2018. If we have missed a name, please accept our apologies and email us at
Robert B. Field, Jr. December 26, 2018
bulletin@berkshireschool.org.
1968 Francis N. Bishop, Jr. October 17, 2018
Fallen faculty and alumni will be honored at the Service of Remembrance during Reunion Weekend in June 2019.
Rondeau ’78 Delivers Veterans Day Tribute On November 12, 2018, David Rondeau ’78 returned to Berkshire to deliver a message to the School community to commemorate Veterans Day, known around the world as Armistice Day. Rondeau’s message to students, faculty, and staff at an all-school assembly paid special tribute to five Berkshire alumni who died in service during World War I. Each is memorialized in the Memorial Hall archway installed on the second floor of the Bellas/Dixon Math and Science Center. Rondeau, whose
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family’s military service dates back to the War of Spanish Succession (1701–1714), implored students to remember the young men who paid the ultimate sacrifice. “As we gaze out at Buck Valley, let us remember that they too were young and full of hopes and dreams as they crossed the pathways of the School; always remembering those who had scarcely begun to live and who gave their lives so freely in the cause,” Rondeau said. “The Class of 1928, on the occasion of their 50th reunion, asked us to
honor their older brothers and cousins, and in fulfillment of that pledge I stand here today. I lay this charge on the graduating class: At your 50th reunion, I ask you to go and look at the arch of remembrance on the second floor of Bellas/Dixon and remember those whom we honor here today.” Rondeau earned Berkshire’s Distinguished Alumni Award in 2013 and currently serves on the Board of Trustees. To learn more about Berkshire’s WWI memorial, visit www.berkshireschool.org/WWIMemorial.
PAYING IT FORWARD Join Us. By participating in Berkshire’s Legacy Gift Matching Challenge, you can make an impact on Berkshire’s students today and tomorrow.
An Unprecedented Opportunity For every new or expanded planned gift committed to Berkshire, an anonymous donor will make a gift in your name to the Annual Fund equal to 10% of your future legacy gift.
Now Is Our Chance To Pay It Forward. With our commitments toward the Berkshire of tomorrow, we have the opportunity to unlock up to $10 million for the Berkshire of today.
Will you join nearly 200 Godman Society members who’ve included Berkshire in their estate plans?
To begin a conversation, contact Director of Advancement Andrew Bogardus at 413-229-1237 or abogardus@berkshireschool.org or Major Gifts Officer Bill Bullock at 413-229-1368 or wbullock@berkshireschool.org.
Learn more at berkshireschool.planningyourlegacy.org. Class Notes Edition • Winter 2019
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in
Miami Miami Reception and Golf Outing | February 7–8 To register, click here or contact Jodi Rathbun at 413-229-1308 or jrathbun@berkshireschool.org
Join Berkshire School for these upcoming events! Click here for additional events and details.
April 9
April 22
Seattle Reception
April 23
San Francisco Reception
April 25
Los Angeles Reception
May 2
June 7–9
Dallas Reception
Chicago Reception Reunion Weekend
Call for Class Notes Submit your news online at www.berkshireschool.org/classnotes or call 413-229-1907. Deadline: March 30, 2019, for the Summer 2019 issue Photos: Please submit your digital photos online at the highest possible resolution. Photos must be sized 1 MB or larger. Photo captions should include full names and class years of everyone in the photo (from left to right) and the date and location of the occasion.
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