Berkshire Bulletin Winter 2022, Class Notes edition

B U L L E T I N Class Notes Edition Winter 2022

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Girls Varsity Soccer capped off an excellent 12–4 season with a trip to the New England Class B tournament, where the No. 2-seeded Bears fought hard but fell to the No. 3 seed, Pingree, in the semifinal.

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The Bears were so happy to be back on campus this fall, welcoming new students at the bottom of the driveway with gusto.

3. T he community kicked off the Year of the Tiger with a fireworks display on January 31, Lunar New Year’s Eve. Led by the Asian Affinity Group, Bears observed the annual celebration with a Chinese dragon dance and presentation at All-School Meeting, an Asian banquet lunch, and an array of student-led activities, including Korean competitive Ddakji, Chinese calligraphy, and group jump rope.

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Berkshire Bulletin

BERKSHIRE B ULLET I N CL A SS N OTE S ED ITI O N • W INTER 202 2 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.

Lara Schefler McLanahan ’86, P’16,’16,’19 CHAIR, BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Pieter Mulder P’22 HEAD OF SCHOOL

Andrew Bogardus P’23,’24 DIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT

Carol Visnapuu DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

BEARS IN THE MLS A new video highlights Ifunanyachi Achara ’16 and Jacob Shaffelburg ’19’s unique Nigeria-to-Nova Scotia connection. Teammates first at Berkshire and now on Major League Soccer’s Toronto FC, Achara and Shaffelburg discuss their time as Bears, the bond they built under the Mountain, and how the experience guides them as professional players.

AND MARKETING

Bulletin Editor: Megan Tady FREELANCE EDITOR

Class Notes Editor: Jen Nichols ’87, P’19 Class Notes Coordinator: Sue Delmolino Ives P’15 Contributing Writers: Bebe Clark Bullock ‘86, P’14,’17,’21, Kevin Soja

Watch the video!

Design: Hammill Design Principal Photography: Berkshire School Alumni, Former Faculty, and Friends

IN THIS ISSUE: Alumni Spotlights 14

A Recipe For Success: Ian Gurfield ‘95

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Testing Her Limits: Kira von Steinbergs ‘13

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Back Again: The Class of 2020 Celebrates First-Year Reunion

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Engagements & Weddings

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Births & Adoptions

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From the Archives

Class Notes: www.berkshireschool.org/classnotes All other alumni matters: alumni@berkshireschool.org Published by Berkshire School’s Communications and Marketing Office and Advancement Office for alumni and friends of the School.

Cover: Naval Aviator Kira von Steinbergs ‘13 earned her Wings of Gold in July 2020.

Read more on page 20.

Go Green!

To receive an electronic issue only of our 2022 year-in-review edition of the Berkshire Bulletin coming this2022 summer, 3 Class Notes Edition • Winter contact bulletin@berkshireschool.org.

Class Notes 1947

75 th

1948 George Church III jayneme3@gmail.com

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Jon Miller writes: “A while back my cousin, Thaxter Parks Spencer, who had an inn at Broad Meadows in Stockbridge, MA, was briefly in the news as having the earliest known photograph of Helen Keller.

The picture was taken by Cornelius Chenery, who stayed at the Elijah Cobb House on Cape Cod in 1888 along with Thaxter’s mother (my Aunt Hope) and Helen. When I attended Berkshire, we always spent Christmas holidays at Aunt Hope’s in Newton Centre.

Thaxter, later a captain in the Naval Reserve, participated in the, I think, mistaken Christmas 1950 evacuation of Hungnam, North Korea. Thaxter may have been last on shore as he was sent to look for stragglers. I saw Thaxter in Seattle, WA, in January 1951.”

1949 Robert W. Doyle, Sr. robertwdoylesr@gmail.com

1951 John B. Hull III (413) 528-1528

GIVE TODAY! Support Berkshire’s Annual Fund!

Every gift supports a Berkshire experience.

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Berkshire Bulletin

1952

70 th

Tad Woodhull writes: “I am tired of being bored, and I am now part of the Military Officers Association of America’s Veterans in the Classroom program teaching high school students and civic groups about the pluses and minuses (very few) of military service.

It’s very rewarding work. My two greatgrandkids are great!”

To volunteer to be a class agent or nominate a classmate, please contact Jen Nichols ’87, P’19, director of alumni relations, at jnichols@berkshireschool.org

or call 413-229-1223.

was from Saudi Arabia. Take a moment to look at Berkshire’s website, you will be staggered by the changes that have taken place in the last 68 years.”

Jim Harmon writes: “After spending more than 60 years working in the private and public sectors and currently in a quasi-public sector role as chairman of the Egyptian-American Enterprise Fund, I finally wrote my memoir, ‘Up and Doing,’ which was published in November.”

1955 Lewis E. Sadler lewcchd@gmail.com Tad Woodhull ’52 on Memorial Day 2021 sporting a new uniform after 49 years of retirement

1953 John G. Cluett jcluett34@gmail.com

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Charlie Berry writes: “In May 2021, I attended the graduation ceremony at Berkshire as my granddaughter was one of the 123 seniors receiving their diplomas. While waiting for the event to begin I couldn’t help to think back to our graduation 68 years ago.

Our ceremony took place in the study hall on the ground floor of Berkshire Hall. This year’s event took place in the ‘Jack,’ an athletic center with two hockey rinks and supporting facilities.

The seniors were led into the hall by four bagpipers. The graduates came from 16 countries and the class speaker

Frederick C. Twichell ttwichell@thacher.org

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Lew Sadler writes: “All is good except my golf game. Hope to see Steve Hall, my Berkshire roommate, who I have not seen since 1955.”

1956 Daniel C. M. Crabbe crabsail@icloud.com

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Tim Austin writes: “There is a nice article about me in ‘Archery’ (Quarter 3/2021, p. 6), a publication of the National Field Archery Association, which goes out to several thousand archers. It pretty well covers my archery resume.”

Dan Goodyear writes: “I enjoy hearing from Spike Billings ’57. He recently shared a historic photo from our time at Berkshire. I remember (vaguely now) our scheming to create that

Class Notes

a month’s stay in western North Carolina. Much like Mt. Everett, in the surrounding mountains I’ve been hiking, reminiscent of the last time I climbed Everett’s shoulder during an off-year reunion (2015?).”

1959

Dan Goodyear ’56 with Spike Billings ’57

pose. Thanks, Spike, for sharing fond memories of our days at Berkshire.”

1957

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Thomas B. Anderson III tom.anderson@sonoma.edu Walter S. Henrion walthenrion@gmail.com

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Walt Henrion writes: “Our 65th reunion is coming up soon, June 10–12, 2022. We have eight classmates who hope to attend, namely, Tom Anderson, Dick Case, Bill Kirtz, Lois Monahan Hon. ’57, Bruce Shields, Mac Odell, John Delamater, and me. We have three maybes, Bruce Benson, Bob Burbank, and Spike Billings. I have already arranged for accommodations.

We encourage other classmates to join us. It is our plan to announce a newly established faculty academic chair endowment which we talked about when we had our class Zoom call over the summer. Very exciting!”

Sandy Ancona writes: “Hello one and all. In the mayhem of the last 18-plus months, I have been blessed with my second great-grandchild. Prior existing 13 grandchildren, and eight above that level. So much for sex education!

I sport my 60th reunion hat and was asked if I had worked for Berkshire Hathaway for that many years. Oh well, perhaps I’ll see y’all at number 70.

Be good, be safe, and enjoy!”

1961 Peter R. Kellogg pkellogg@iatre.com

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1960 Joseph D. Bodak, Jr. jdbodakjr@hotmail.com Stephen P. Norman steve@spnormanco.com

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Harry MacLean writes: “Showtime aired a four-part series entitled ‘Buried,’ which is based on my second book, ‘Once Upon A Time, A True

1958 Benjamin J. Rosin benrosin@aol.com

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Chuck DuCharme writes: “Me, my Berkshire socks, and jersey enjoyed

Story of Murder, Memory and the Law.’ I serve as a principal narrator in the series.

The book/documentary deals with the story of Eileen Franklin, who recovered a ‘repressed memory’ of her father murdering her playmate when they were children. He was convicted based on her testimony. My first book, ‘In Broad Daylight,’ was made into a movie of the same name, starring Brian Dennehy. It is both an exhilarating and somewhat depressing experience to see your book turned into a movie. ‘Buried’ premiered October 10.”

Harry MacLean ’60

Ed Hunt ’61 with his grandson, Andrew (future Class of 2036), son of Brad ’95

Peter Kellogg writes: “After our class Zoom call, Mike Walker shared a Berkshire memory from his tenure on the Dance Committee. Back then the routine was that Dance Committee members greeted female guests as they stepped off their bus. We had a clipboard and list matching each girl with her date. Our job was to introduce each girl to the name on the list. Mike Walker did his job flawlessly until, in his words, ‘a hottie’ stepped off. At that point he checked his list and said, ‘Oh look.

You’re my date!’ That ruse worked well until he was put on D Group (forever) Class Notes Edition • Winter 2022

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Class Notes

and removed from all activities. Mike has a thousand memories of Berkshire and a lot about his best friend Jimmy Anderson, who died in a car crash about a month after visiting Mike at Macalester College in 1962.”

Mike Walker writes: “Just finished seven years on the road with my dog, Clem, in our 1989 Toyota camper.

We’re now shuttling between the shed at son Mike’s house in Santa Cruz, CA, and the side room at daughter, Curry’s, in San Francisco, CA. Who knows what’s next?”

1962

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1966 Harlan J. Swift, Jr. timswifty@gmail.com

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Willard Soper writes: “The fall was an exciting time for our family as my granddaughter, Annie Soper, entered Berkshire as a member of the Class of 2024. Following in the footsteps of her dad, Jared ’93, and aunt, Amanda Soper Henning ’97, she is a thirdgeneration Berkshire Bear.”

1967

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F. Woodson Hancock III woods1949@gmail.com

1968

Andrew S. Berkman aberkman@cpny.com

chairman of the Motorsports Hall of Fame, write for ‘Sports Car Market’ and ConceptCarz.com, and serve as chief judge for the Miami, FL, Concours.

I will be judging concours events in Newport, RI; Chattanooga, TN; Greenwich, CT; and Belgium.”

John Thompson writes: “‘Buccaneer’s Spit: A Race for the Treasure,’ my newest book for middle grade readers (8–12) was released in 2021. Set in coastal South Carolina, it’s the exciting story of two kids trying to save a pristine and environmentally sensitive spit of land, an underhanded developer, and a strange map.”

L. Keith Reed lkreed.mt@gmail.com

1963

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Peter V. K. Parsons pvkp2@msn.com

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Ed Grant writes: “It was another great reunion with classmate John Magee at the beautiful setting of Lake Waramaug Country Club in New Preston, CT, as was the wonderful hospitality and companionship; even the golf was pretty good for the former football ‘coolers’ of ’63—great fun and friendship. As is our tradition, the loser of the golf match agrees to make a donation to Berkshire’s Annual Fund.

In case you’re wondering who won ... I mailed in my matching grant to the School. All the best to Berkshire School, a wonderful setting in itself.”

Mark Moskowitz writes: “I am enjoying retirement from my surgical practice, devoting time to family and my automobile hobby. I serve as vice

Barbara and Mark Moskowitz ’68 pre-COVID at the Miami Concours

John Thompson ’68’s newest book, “Buccaneer’s Spit: A Race for the Treasure”

1969 Kent S. Clow III ksc3@msn.com

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Stay tuned for details on Reunion Weekend 2022. berkshireschool.org/ reunionweekend

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K.C. Clow writes: “Steve Morgan helped his son, Kane ’22, get settled in Stanley dorm for his senior year at Berkshire. Kane was asked to a baseball showcase in Boston, MA, so Steve stayed with me while Kane was there. We had a number of dinners

Class Notes

at local restaurants. We usually get together when Steve returns to campus for Family Weekend. I also heard from Doug Martin, who recently got together with classmate Bob Ensign for the first time since 1969.”

Gordon Hunt writes: “I had a nice visit from John Hermans last September on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire. We’re just a couple of old curmudgeons.”

1971 Kevin J. Bruemmer kevin.bruemmer@gmail.com

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Kevin Bruemmer writes: “George Coyne, John Edack ’72, and I, along with our spouses, spent several days together at John’s vacation house in Stinson Beach, CA. George flew in from Philadelphia, PA, and I came from my house in Reno, NV. John and I agreed that we hadn’t seen each other in at least 50 years. Catching up with old Berkshire classmates is always easy and fun. It was everyone’s first postCOVID trip in more than a year.”

1972

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John Y. G. Walker III

jwalker2353@gmail.com

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Jan D’Angelo writes: “Riders on the storm. I ran into Berkshire roomie Brad Johnson at Denver International Airport. Brad was off to Jacksonville, FL, and I was off to Cabo.”

Classmates Brad Johnson ’72 and Jan D’Angelo ’72 at the Denver International Airport

John Walker writes: “I am attempting a second career as a voice-over actor and audiobook narrator. When not behind that mic, I announce a number of horse shows all over the East Coast.

And, if that doesn’t keep me busy, I serve as a board member of the National Horse Show and as treasurer for the Kent Memorial Library. Phew!”

John Hermans ’69 and Gordon Hunt ’69 on the shore of Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire

Doug Martin writes: “I had a nice two-day visit from Bob Ensign out here in Massachusetts on the Cape of Cod. First time I have seen Bob since we received our honorable discharges 52 years ago. Lots of reminiscing and yes, all of your names came up! Hard to believe, but we also had a couple of beverages too. A great time! Bob is a therapist in Portland, OR, and frequently makes the cross-country drive. Hopefully we will get together before another 52 years pass.”

1970 Robert L. W. McGraw blackrockfarm@hotmail.com

George Coyne ’71, Kevin Bruemmer ’71, and John Edack ’72 at Stinson Beach, CA

berkshire my bare feet on a pine needle floor in the dappling light beneath old pines A poem by t stewart ’71 (bearing in mind i grew up a faculty kid :)

Mason Phelps, president of the National Horse Show, and John Walker ’72

Jay Washington writes: “Greetings from Berkshire! My wife, Katrina, and I stopped in for a hike to Guilder Pond and were accompanied by four Bears, three from the Class of 2022!

Class Notes Edition • Winter 2022

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Class Notes

It was a blast getting to personally know the students. We discussed all sorts of topics ranging from school life and future careers to world travel and global human rights. It was very encouraging to me in my new role chairing the Student Life Subcommittee of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Alumni Council. This group of students is on track to be their generation’s change masters!”

Katrina Lyons, Nuweira Ahmed ’22, Autumn Coard ’22, Leo Yang ’22, Kyron Stevenson ’24, and Jay Washington ’72 hiked to Guilder Pond.

1973 Rex S. Morgan, Jr.

rexsmorgan@gmail.com Michele Robins

michele.robins@gmail.com Leon J. Weil, Jr.

jerryweil.tennis@gmail.com

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Stowe Shoemaker writes: “All continues to go well at William F. Harrah College of Hospitality at UNLV. We were recently ranked the #1 hospitality program in the USA and #2 in the world. I now hold the Andrew and Peggy Cherng Dean Chair thanks to a $5 million gift from the owners and founders of Panda Express.

I recently signed a book contract with Indigo Publishing to write a book on the intersection of hospitality and healthcare. The book should be available late in 2022.”

battling Stage 4 liver disease and am anxiously hoping and waiting for a liver transplant. My spirits remain high and so many friends and former colleagues have been very supportive, including Berkshire alums. Have my mind and eyes set on a return to campus for Reunion Weekend 2022. Go Bears!”

1976 Stephen H. Hassett shasse01@gmail.com

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Jenn Bogue Bonn writes: “I retired from teaching after 40 years in the classroom, and I am now focusing on my new grandson and my writing. My newest book will be out soon. It is called ‘101 Ways to Ease Your Burdens.’”

1974 Louise A. Clement

luluinsf2005@yahoo.com

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Walter Baker writes: “I have been named head of the global industrial practice for Cornerstone International Group. With over 57 offices globally, Cornerstone is the leading retained executive search firm worldwide.”

1975

Jenn Bogue Bonn ’76 with her new grandson. “I’m loving being a grandmother!”

Chris Geer writes: “I had my first real outing in over 18 months as I have been Spencer Willets ’72 still editing after all these years

Spencer Willets writes: “I have been in contact with a number of my classmates, and we are planning on attending our 50th reunion at Berkshire! Looking forward to it with great anticipation and apprehension ...

We will live through the ordeal! Ha ha!”

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Berkshire Bulletin

Denise and Chris Geer ’75

Robin MacAusland ’76, William Bullard ’76, and Stu Brown ’77 met for lunch in June. Stu and William live a mile apart in South Dartmouth, MA, and Robin lives in nearby Rhode Island.

Class Notes

This is what happens when the words “Berkshire” and “party” come together: Alison Gerold Dale ’75, Liz Kinney Robinson ’76, Beth Mayer Carlisle ’75, Alex Carlisle ’74, (Robin McCullough), Robin MacAusland ’76, Stu Brown ’77, Gordon Harris ’75, Joe Fusco ’75, Nat Bruning ’75, (Linda Bruning), Pam Walker ’75, and Dave Walker ’73

Robin MacAusland writes: “It was late July when the raspberries were hanging and the flowers were peaking when suddenly a magical garden party appeared in my backyard with Berkshire friends spanning five years (1973–77) and five states (California, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island).

Most driving four hours in traffic to get there—now that’s what I call friendship—thank you, Berkshire!

(Ward Doonan ’75 and Jon Leet ’75 almost made it, which still counts in my book.)”

on the same journey. We are truly blessed with this opportunity and welcome visitors anytime.”

1977

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Richard M. McGivern rmcgivern@msn.com

1978 Birney B. Boehland bbboehland@gmail.com

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Marlee Wallingford writes: “My partner, Patrick, and our dog, Hobbs, retired to Ecuador in 2021. The excursion started in March, and created a lifelong dream of living on an organic farm amongst the inactive Cotacachi and Imbabura volcanos. The compound of barns, stables, and 100-year-old houses are filled with dynamic expats

Lily Leonard Goodale writes: “I continue to divide my time between Maine, Florida, and Ecuador. I am an active Montessori teacher at Turtle River Montessori school. My oldest step daughter, Anna, just got married on the family island in Maine. My stepson, Abe Goodale, was named one of Maine’s top artists. My daughter, Adrianna, is a Montessori teacher also and her youngest daughter, Jesse, is a senior at UMO Maine. I celebrated 20 years of sobriety this year.”

Marlee Wallingford ’76 with partner, Patrick, and their dog, Hobbs

May Goodale, Lily Leonard Goodale ’78, Jesse, and Adrianna

Nick Jones ’78 and Brooks Slocum ’81 teeing it up on Long Island, NY

1979 Robert D. Thomas bthomas@wwsg.com

1980 Kimberley C. Fuchs kcfuchs33@verizon.net Ralph J. Lamberto uticaeyedoc@icloud.com Steven P. Veronesi sveronesi@cox.net

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Ralph Lamberto writes: “Looking forward to Reunion 2022. Let’s make this a reunion to remember by having a large turnout.”

Ralph Lamberto ’80 on vacation in 2018 at the Outer Banks in North Carolina Class Notes Edition • Winter 2022

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Class Notes

1981 Annie Godfrey Clyne clyne@optonline.net Sue Ann Stanton sasroyale@yahoo.com

have replied, ‘President of the stoners.’ Presently, I’m serving as the vice president of the Natural Stone Institute, the global industry organization, and slated to serve as president this year.”

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Judd Anderson writes: “Roby Thompson ’82 and I spent a fantastic week at Thompson Island on Lake of the Woods in northwest Ontario, Canada. It’s an incredibly beautiful spot which draws a great group of friends every year. We have been meeting there most summers since 1985 and were grateful that the border opened up after being closed last year.”

Tony Scheinman writes: “In August, I completed my seventeenth audiobook recording, a collection of humorous/ unexpurgated stories about the Middle/Far Eastern ‘wise fool’ and folk character Mullah Nasruddin, which will be released later this year, as well as appearing on the Netflix series ‘Russian Doll’ and in the independent film ‘Sanctioning Evil.’”

1982

40 th

Anthony P. Addison doubleany1@gmail.com Andrew Champagne (802) 540-0717 James E. Demmert jamesdemmert@gmail.com

Roby Thompson ’82, Judd Anderson ’81, and Berkshire banner courtesy of the late Duncan MacMillan ’49

Annie Godfrey Clyne writes: “Looking forward to the supersized reunion in June. I hope to see a lot of classmates there. I spoke to Leslie Schnurr Lyman and she will also be there! Expecting to see Brooks, Brian, Ben, and Brett (prom date) there! I’m sure I missed some ‘B’ names ... It has been too long ... What about Bruce Biber and Hull of course! Bess? I have to stop there because this note is late (some things never change). Let’s all make an effort to go, especially since it’s an opportunity to see our friends from the classes of ’82 and ’80! See you all in June!”

Buddy Ontra writes: “When asked, ‘What do you want to be when you grow up?’ as a teenager, I might 10

Berkshire Bulletin

Rosemary G. Fitzgerald rose@spiderwebstudio.com Jay K. Overbye joverbye@bhsusa.com George L. Rioseco III laxcoachgeorge@gmail.com Gayle S. Saks gaylesaks@gmail.com

1983

Sarah Bakhiet ’83 with Michaela Romano-Meade ’02

with friends like Debi and Bill Gulotta and the Romano-Meades. A highlight of last spring was a Zoom mini reunion organized by fellow classmate, Eric Luden. The best part of 2021 was my inperson visit to Cape Cod, MA, spending time with the Gulottas and the RomanoMeades. Best wishes.”

Michael Geller writes: “The Class of 1983 had a great Zoom call gettogether this summer (thanks to coordinating host Eric Luden). I hope we can recreate and make even larger sometime soon with more of our class in attendance. I had the pleasure of having Kim Irvine Lacasse visit me for a bit here in St. Pete, FL, and then I went off and visited Amy Gruson Lucarelli ’84 at her amazing home in Costa Rica!”

Karen Schnurr Secrist karensecrist6@gmail.com

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Sarah Bakhiet writes: “After cutting short a trip to Europe and returning from London to San Diego, CA, in March 2020, I self-quarantined for several weeks, grateful that I was healthy.

Even as I cautiously ventured out, the world seemed irrevocably changed and surreal. Keeping me sane throughout this time were my Zoom taiko (Japanese drumming) sessions and FaceTiming

Amy Gruson Lucarelli ’84 and Michael Geller ’83 and the amazing view from Amy’s home in Costa Rica. Such a gracious host!

Class Notes

Elizabeth Rutledge writes: “After 25 years of living in Georgia I moved to Williamsburg, VA. It’s been 25 years of helping the Democratic Party (in an effort primarily to help the poor), supporting and working with nonprofits such as Amnesty International and Atlanta Mission, the Gary Sinise Foundation, Child Brain Tumor Foundation, and lots of animal rescue and adoption. Most everything can be transferred to Virginia. I love hearing from those I knew at Berkshire and visit the campus often because my family has a house in the Berkshires. If you’re just passing through Virginia or wish to spend time in Colonial Williamsburg, don’t hesitate to contact me. My front door and guest room are always open to a fellow Berkshire alum.”

1984 Debra Drucker druckerdeb@yahoo.com

1985 Lionel A. Shaw lionel_shaw@yahoo.com Mary Brosnahan Wachter mtbwachter@gmail.com

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Carla Gómez Klein writes: “I moved to Santa Monica, CA, in August 2020, and it has been a long, strange year. I am delighted to share that I began working at a couple of private schools in the area, as well as a local meditation studio. I am loving being back in Los Angeles!”

Denise Saunders ’83

Council. I moved to Winter Garden, FL, as my son started his sophomore year at the University of Miami. I met one of my son’s roommate’s parents, who happens to be good friends with Pieter and Mary Kate Gangemi Bronder.

Small world! I’m serving as an adjunct professor at the University of Central Florida, where I’m teaching Personal Finance and Investments at the Business School. Ping me on Facebook if you’re in Orlando!”

Elizabeth Rutledge ’83 and Cathy Burgunder Robinson ’83 in London, England, in 2017

Denise Saunders writes: “I was on Berkshire’s campus with friends during a girl’s trip to Mount Greylock, the Norman Rockwell Museum, and the Berkshire Botanical Garden, and I was fortunate to run into Pieter Mulder.

We caught up on my involvement with Berkshire’s newly established Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Alumni

Katie Saxby-Welsh Schindler writes: “What a crazy year it has been! I hope all are staying healthy and well! My husband and I are enjoying life as empty nesters in Kennebunk, ME. I started a new job this year, working as a career exploration coordinator with middle and high school students. I’m doing career exploration and creating experiential learning opportunities for my students! I am loving it! I also will graduate in May with my master’s in adult and higher education. Who thought it was a good idea to return to grad school in your mid-fifties? I guess I took ‘learning for life’ to heart!”

Carla Gómez Klein ’85 is loving California

1986 Rhonda M. Bentley-Lewis rblewis81411@gmail.com Anthony S. Clifford tclifford11@gmail.com Lara Schefler McLanahan lara.mclanahan@berkshireschool.org Ann C. Zimmerli-Haskel azh@me.com Erik C. Zimmerman erikzimmerman46@gmail.com

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Class Notes

1988 Anne E. Glaccum glaccume@gmail.com James D. Watt, Jr. jdwattjr@gmail.com

A group of ’86ers hiked to South Pinnacle on October 2. Back row: Drew Scofield ’86, Tony Clifford ’86 Middle row: Jim Haskel ’86, Bebe Clark Bullock ’86, Annie Zimmerli-Haskel ’86, Sabina Curti ’86 Front: Lara Schefler McLanahan ’86

Darkness: Part II,’ are currently playing on Shudder and Amazon Prime if you are interested in checking them out!

Take good care.”

1987

Jeff Tillou ’88, Kirk Kellogg ’87, Thomas Maiden ’88, Scott Falso ’88, Steve Altman ’88, and Corey Gilkes ’88, at the Turning Stone Resort for the 11th Annual Scooter Open

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Janna Klyver Cord jcord3214@gmail.com Angela Lange Meredith-Jones ameredithjones@gmail.com

Dave Braeger ’86 and Scott Falso ’88 bumped into each other at the Ryder Cup. Go USA!

David Weiner ’86 with Star Wars legend Billy Dee Williams after their “In Search of Tomorrow” interview

David Weiner writes: “Hello everyone!

I miss Berkshire and hope to make it back for a visit soon. While balancing home-schooling responsibilities for my 10-year-old son during COVID here in Los Angeles, CA, I’ve also been busy putting the final touches on my newest film project, a documentary about ’80s sci-fi movies called ‘In Search of Tomorrow.’ The four-plus-hour doc will be released in the spring. My previous two films about ’80s horror movies, ‘In Search of Darkness’ and ‘In Search of 12

Berkshire Bulletin

Scott MacGillivray ’22 and Thomas Maddock ’87, retired Lt. Col, USAF hit the ice together for a game in the Albuquerque Premier Hockey League. Scott presented Thomas with a Berkshire hockey jersey after the game.

Ellie Glaccum ’88 with Ned Toffey ’82 in the paddock at Monmouth Park in Oceanport, NJ, in July

Class Notes

1989 Andrew D. Allen andrewdrexelallen@gmail.com

1990 Natalie Bradley Clarke ninabclarke@gmail.com Katharine Cutler Coughlin katecoughlin1@gmail.com Natalie Dillon natdillon28@gmail.com

1991 John K. Fretz jfretz@outlook.com

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Rick Conly writes: “My wife, Mary Kate, and I relocated to Naples, FL, in May. I work at Compass selling commercial and residential real estate.

Please look me up if you’re in town (rickconly@yahoo.com)!

Rick Conly ’91 with his wife, Mary Kate, at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, in 2019

Claude Stuart writes: “Hey, my friends! I have a brand new stand-up comedy special coming out (produced

Claude Stuart ’91 onstage, rocking it live!

by The Funny Media Group), titled ‘Claude Stuart: White Lightning’ and three feature films I wrote in development. Thanks so much!”

1993

1992

1994

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Abram W. Duryee III bduryee@hotmail.com

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Stephanie DiSantis writes: “What about fun speeding ticket memories?

Recently I received a letter stating that I was a wanted criminal in the State of New York and that my driving privileges were suspended, and had been since 1992. This led to a crack investigation (for which I should probably start a podcast) that resulted in me speaking to adorable Dover Plains, NY, town court officials (all of whom are related) who unearthed a speeding ticket issued in 1992 when I was driving a borrowed (not stolen) Volvo with Terry Baum ’93 and apparently driving like a teenager. I love Berkshire memories. Angie and her brother, Judge Abrams, from Dover Plains, have delightfully dismissed the charge, and I am ultimately not on the lam.”

Be Singer writes: “First (?) Berkshire alum to complete a thru-hike of the 2,192 miles of the Appalachian Trail, a 14-state walking trail from Georgia to Maine that runs behind Berkshire School.”

Be Singer ’92 taking a break on the Appalachian Trail

Hilary Ivey Mueller hilary@schoolsuitessoftware.com Tenley E. Reed tenley@mac.com

Alexis Beall Taylor writes: “Hi! I’ve been writing a food blog for a few years, and I am excited to announce the publication of my first cookbook!

It’s called ‘Zest.’ It’s been a year of hard work with my husband, Justin, and we couldn’t be more thrilled. Check it out at makeitwithzest.com.

“Zest” is the first cookbook by Alexis Beall Taylor ’94 with her husband, Justin Taylor.

1995 Bradley P. Hunt colgate1399@gmail.com

______________________________

Brad Hunt writes: “I met up with Matt Naylor and his new bride, Liz, in Portland, Maine. Matt recently retired

Brad Hunt ’95, Lauren Hunt, Liz Naylor, and Matt Naylor ’95 at Foundation Brewing Company in Portland, Maine, last April Class Notes Edition • Winter 2022

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Class Notes

A RECIPE FOR SUCCESS A Q&A with Ian Gurfield ’95

By Kevin Soja

Ian’s Pizza’s Garver Feed Mill location in Madison, Wis., is one of nine restaurants owned by Ian Gurfield.

The original Ian’s Pizza is located on Frances Street in Madison, Wis. Gurfield, just 25 at the time, opened the restaurant on Halloween day of 2001.

Twenty years later, Ian’s Pizza has nine different store locations in four major cities west of the Mississippi.

Gurfield grew up in Alford, Mass., and was a four-year day student at Berkshire. After graduating, he enrolled at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, receiving a dual degree in philosophy and economics in December 2019. The most pivotal of his college

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Berkshire Bulletin

years may have been the one he spent studying abroad in Italy, where he developed a love for Italian food and language. Gurfield moved to Madison in January 2000, and continues to live there with his wife, Susan, and their two children, Emil (8) and Sarah (6).

As a young business owner, Gurfield had the energy and flexibility he needed to focus all of his attention on the restaurant business, something that would have been much more challenging at this stage in his life. He also had the awareness and humility to

“I have an entrepreneurial spirit and I love food, so the decision to go into the restaurant business made sense.”

Class Notes

understand that this process would not be mistake-free.

As much as Ian’s Pizza has grown in the past 20 years, the one constant for the business has been a deliberate focus on the happiness and satisfaction of every employee. For Gurfield, fostering a healthy employee culture is paramount to making quality food and building important connections with customers. One thing is for sure, Ian’s Pizza seems to have found just the right recipe for success … and for fantastic pizza.

If you’re ever in Madison, be sure to visit Ian’s for some great food and company. He loves meeting and visiting with fellow Bears!

When did you first come up with the idea to open your own pizza restaurant?

It started with a semester abroad in Florence, Italy. When I came back to college, I was looking to keep up with my Italian and struck up a friendship with a family of Italian restaurateurs.

One thing led to another, and soon I started working for them with the intent of opening my own pizza shop in a college town. I have an entrepreneurial spirit and I love food, so the decision to go into the restaurant business made sense. I visited Madison, Wis., in January of 2000 and liked what I saw. I opened on Halloween of 2001 and business took off instantly.

With nine locations in four cities (Madison, Milwaukee, Denver, and Seattle), what has allowed you to be successful, and what are your hopes for the future?

Persistence, generosity of spirit, and luck are some of the factors. Learning from the tons of mistakes I’ve made along the way also is important. Lastly, I wouldn’t have gotten this far without help from others. As for the future, we have a long-term 2031 vision, which took several years to write. You can read all about it here [in Ian’s blog, Make Great Dough, which features actionable advice for small business owners].

In what ways is your Berkshire experience present in your life today?

Berkshire helped me to develop solid communication skills. That includes learning how to type, something I do almost every day!

What are your fondest memories of your time under the Mountain?

My entire sixth-form year was great. I remember being part of a small crew of sixth formers who decided to play JV basketball instead of going for varsity. We had a great time. And we won a lot of games.

Any advice for today’s students?

Learning patience. Some of my biggest mistakes were the result of rushing into things. Also, if possible, travel. ianspizza.com

Gurfield with his family in Florence, Italy

Class Notes Edition • Winter 2022

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Class Notes

from the Air Force as a linguist, after serving over 20 years—congrats on a great career! My wife and I continue to live in Salem, MA, with our children Eveline (3) and Andrew (1). We get back to the Berkshires as often as possible to visit my parents who live in Housatonic.

This summer my family had a great Fourth of July celebration in Saratoga, NY, at the house of my brother, Thomas Hunt ’97, his wife, Julie, and son, Lincoln. Looking forward to a visit on campus soon. Go Bears!”

over the world. And this past Halloween, I performed mind reading in my show at Six Flags Magic Mountain. As always, if you’re ever in Los Angeles, CA, please reach out and say hello!”

1996 Katie C. King katiecking@yahoo.com Jules A. Lemire juleslemire@gmail.com

Laura Miller ’98 with her foster dog, Nahla, at an event for the Sarama Animal Rescue

2000

Dylan B. Mattes dylan.mattes.nyc@gmail.com

Matthew D. Boynton boynton_matt@yahoo.com

Seth J. T. Sanders sjtsanders@gmail.com

1997

Sarah Scheinman Hulsey sarahscheinman@hotmail.com

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2001

Kristina Thaute Miller kthaute@yahoo.com

1998 Lauren Levin Budz lauren98@aol.com

Shannon M. Flynn flynnshannonm@gmail.com Chris Reichart ’98 and Bill Spalding ’65 at a wedding in Salisbury, CT

Malinda L. Lareau mlaurenlareau@gmail.com

1999

______________________________

Michael D. Gutenplan michaelgutenplan@gmail.com

Laura Miller writes: “Hi everyone!

I’ve been running an animal rescue called Sarama Animal Rescue for the past eight years. Please check our website out at Sarama.org and follow us on social media. We are always looking for foster parents, adopters, and volunteers!”

George S. Scoville III gscovillempp@gmail.com

______________________________

Michael Gutenplan writes: “Hi all! I hope everyone is healthy and happy!

I’ve been spending the pandemic performing Zoom shows for groups all

Connect with Berkshire 16

Berkshire Bulletin

George Scoville writes: “I presented a seminar on product liability law at the annual two-day Tennessee Personal Injury Law Conference in Nashville, TN. I continue to represent manufacturers and designers of global consumer product brands in the state and federal courts of Tennessee at Lewis Thomason, P.C. in Nashville, and I will also be returning to my alma mater, Belmont University in Nashville, to teach constitutional law in Spring 2022.”

Peter A. Kearney, Jr. pkearneyjr@gmail.com

______________________________

Nic Emery writes: “Quick update on life in Great Barrington, MA. Back in the spring I transitioned from the boarding school world to a fully remote job at a software company based in Boston. I had the opportunity to reconnect with Eve Bruneau ’00 over lunch last summer and heard all about her life as a surgeon out West. Our daughter, Eleanor, turned two in September, and our son, Leo, just turned five in January. Hoping we’ll see a great turnout for the Class of 2001 at the mega reunion in June!”

Phil Murphy writes: “This past summer I had a movie released called ‘Hitman’s Wife’s Bodyguard.’ It’s an action comedy starring Ryan Reynolds, Samuel L.

Class Notes

Geneviève von Walstrom writes: “I am a practicing obstetrician and gynecologist getting additional nonsurgical training in preventive medicine, public health, and policy change at Stony Brook University Medical Center in New York. I plan to incorporate complimentary, alternative, and holistic medicine into a more integrative approach to patient health care in hopes of improving health outcomes, quality of life, and survivorship.”

Phil Murphy ’01 at home in Los Angeles, CA

and my husband, Rob Rose, is teaching math and Latin. We look forward to creating new memories on campus with our young son, Robbie.”

Jackson, and Selma Hayek. I write with my brother and we’ve been working steadily in Hollywood, CA, the past 10 years selling screenplays and getting studio work, but this was our first major release.”

John Plumb writes: “I live in Houston, TX, with my wife, Katherine, and three children, Mary (10), Jack (8), and Kackie (6). I work for Hines pursuing commercial real estate development projects nationally. Katherine is a tax partner at the Deloitte Houston office. Needless to say, it’s busy in the Plumb household. During the summer months, our family enjoys heading to Colorado (or Montana) to hike, fish, and enjoy the cooler climate.”

2003 Robert Morgan Ralph robertmralph@gmail.com

______________________________

Dr. Geneviève von Walstrom ’01

2002

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Jaclyn Brander Marshall jbrander@gmail.com Matthew P. Sposito matthew.sposito@gmail.com

______________________________

Jaclyn Brander Marshall writes: “Kate Daigh Berry, Julie Hansen Lynch, Libby Murfey, and I had a mini reunion in Denver, CO, in September. We had the best time and can’t wait to be back under the Mountain for our 20th reunion.”

John Plumb ’01 with his wife, Katherine, and children, Mary, Kackie, and Jack in Telluride, CO

Kate Daigh Berry ’02, Libby Murfey ’02, Jaclyn Brander Marshall ’02, and Julia Hansen Lynch ’02 in Denver, CO

Katie Dalton Rose writes: “I am excited to be back under the Mountain following a return to Berkshire with my family. I am working with students in the Kenefick Center for Learning,

Amanda Cooley Donaldson writes: “Exhausted, but full of gratitude, we moved into our new homestead in April 2021. The journey to build as non-toxic and sustainably as possible began in late 2018 and continues as we now furnish interiors and landscape the grounds with new trees, native plantings, edibles, and medicinal plants. Always happy to consult and share learnings when asked.

Soon, we will welcome a puppy and barn cats. I still enjoy freelance designing (from my new studio on site), which affords me flexibility to also teach a garden class for second, third, and fourth

Amanda Cooley Donaldson ’03 with husband, Graeme, and Rennie Class Notes Edition • Winter 2022

17

Class Notes

graders for my teaching debut. After compact-living downtown for nine years, we can now offer guests parking and a place to sleep!” To read a Q&A with Amanda, click here.

2004 Faye Abrams Klein fayevklein@gmail.com William C. Stern wcstern1@gmail.com Kraig D. Strong kskraigstrong@gmail.com

______________________________

Carter Stern writes: “I recently found out that classmate, Levi Wade, got engaged to Katie Frisina. While they have not set a date due to COVID, I was really excited as their courtship lasted more than 14 years!”

2005 Matthew G. Crowson matthew.g.crowson@gmail.com

______________________________

Strategy. Also, proud to be the first alumni engagement designee for the New York chapter of the Advisory Board! Look forward to working with my fellow Bears to build community and support for Berkshire in New York City.”

Maizie Houghton writes: “To all of the ‘Shire Bears. I regret to admit that I have been generally out of touch with all of them for over a decade.

Life has been a wild ride. I am happily located in the great wide open space of Montana, where I hope to continually make a meaningful contribution to juvenile interventions and deterrent programming. With 20/20 hindsight, I am often struck by a sense of overwhelming gratitude for my years under the Mountain and for all of the ways that Berkshire prepared me for life. I am presently working on a master’s in social work from Simmons University. Blessings to all!”

Matt Crowson writes: “My wife, Catherine, and I are over the moon to report the birth of our first child, Harris ‘Harry’ River Crowson, on June 28 in Boston, MA. We are excited by the possibility that he may someday follow in my footsteps and become a Berkshire Bear.”

2006 Courtney J. Kollmer courtney.j.kollmer@pwc.com Stephen W. Piatelli steve.piatelli@gmail.com

2007

15 th

Casey A. Larkins casey.larkins@gmail.com Allison A. Letourneau letourneau.allison@gmail.com

______________________________

John Diebold writes: “I joined Fitch Solutions as Director of ESG Product

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Berkshire Bulletin

I serve as the director of enrollment management and Kim is part of the teaching faculty. Kim grew up at KUA as a faculty child. We enjoy finding moments to return to Berkshire, especially when it includes a stop by Godman dorm to see our niece and nephew, Elouise and Finn Cooper.”

2008 Christopher J. Buonomo cjbuonomo@gmail.com Erica Ginsberg Murphy eginzie@gmail.com Mary E. Pace maryelizabethpace@gmail.com Abigail I. Tufts abigail.tufts@gmail.com

______________________________

Lucia Nunez writes: “I successfully defended my Ph.D. in August 2020 and started working at Northeastern University as a computer science professor. I also came out as a trans woman, so life has been far more fun.”

2009 Kelly Wallace Abbott kellyjwallace5@gmail.com Gregory T. Piatelli gpiatelli@gmail.com

Maizie Houghton ’07 with sister, Tasha, and Levis

Allison Letourneau writes: “After a few COVID hurdles, I tied the knot with my wife, Kim Cooper, on August 15 in Wolfeboro, NH! We were fortunate to share the day with so many Berkshire friends and family members. I returned to graduate school at Columbia University where I’m pursuing an MEd in Independent School Leadership. Kim and I moved from The White Mountain School to Kimball Union Academy (KUA), where

Molly Ryan Rubins mollyrubins1024@gmail.com

______________________________

Mike Gardineer writes: “In May, I graduated from law school. Pending bar passage, I’ll be practicing tax law, coincidentally with my son Jack’s birthday being the tax deadline.”

2010 Charles B. H. Brey cbrey11@gmail.com William R. Hearty wrhearty@gmail.com Christopher B. Landry landrycb@gmail.com

Class Notes

Kelsey A. Markiewicz kelsey.markiewicz@gmail.com Shannon E. Nelson senelson913@gmail.com Tyler J. Reighley tyler.reighley@gmail.com Alexandra Colbert Roselli abcolber@gmail.com Yuan Shen shenyuan1991@gmail.com

2012

10 th

Samuel C. Maher smaher@berkshireschool.org

2013 Wesley J. Lickus wlickus@icloud.com Harriet F. Waldron hattiewaldron@gmail.com

2014

2011

Jacob A. Grant jkgrnt12@gmail.com

Arthur M. Copstein acopstein@gmail.com

Emily M. Hubbard emilymhubbard1@gmail.com

Margaret A. Fiertz maggiefiertz@gmail.com John C. Krueger jckrueger19@gmail.com

______________________________

Francesca Ghi writes: “After graduating with my masters in education with a specialist in reading and literacy development, I have

Francesca Ghi ’14 in front of her English Language Arts and STEAM classroom

accepted a position as the STEAM and English Language Arts middle school teacher at a Canadian school in Rabat, Morocco. I am excited to be working with Moroccan and expat students.”

Engagements & Weddings 2007

Allison Letourneau ’07 married Kim Cooper on August 15 in Wolfeboro, NH. They were surrounded by Berkshire friends and family members. Back Row: Andrew D’Ambrosio, Heidi Woodworth, Andrew Bogardus, Caddie Jackson, A.J. Kohlhepp, Kelley Bogardus, Virginia Watkins, Laura Cooper, Steph Holmes ’06, Lori Charpentier, Dean Charpentier, Dan Cooper Front Row: Donald Anselmi, Patrick Donovan, Su DelGuercio, Allison Letourneau ’07, Kim Cooper, Dana Anselmi, Caitlin Cooper, Tess Adams, Katherine Simmons, Jamie Goldsmith, Ed Cooper

2012

Bray Wilcock ’12 and Taylor Lynch ’12 were married in Charleston, SC, in May.

Class Notes Edition • Winter 2022

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Class Notes

TESTING HER LIMITS A Q&A with Kira von Steinbergs ’13

By Kevin Soja

If you are looking for Kira von Steinbergs, you might find her soaring through the skies above Kãne’ohe Bay, HI, in a MH-60 Seahawk.

Commissioned into the U.S. Navy in January 2018, she earned her Wings of Gold and the official title of Naval Aviator in July 2020.

Von Steinbergs’ remarkable journey to becoming a pilot actually began back in 2013 when she embarked on her first solo flight a few short miles from Berkshire’s campus at the Walter J. Koladza Airport in Great Barrington, Mass.

Following Berkshire, von Steinbergs pursued a Spanish studies major with a concentration in Portuguese studies at the University of Arizona. She also minored in Russian studies and military leadership and sciences, graduating in December 2017.

As good fortune would have it, she met her future husband, Abraão Magalhães, while studying abroad in Fortaleza, Brazil. This was also when she was introduced to Brazilian jiu-jitsu, which has grown to be an integral part of her life, marriage, and family. Their daughter, Cherry, was born in August 2016 and, like her parents, has already developed a special passion and talent for this unique martial art.

Von Steinbergs’ Berkshire experience set the stage for her future. Like so many alumni, she is a living example of the School’s core values of curiosity, integrity, respect, inclusion, perseverance, and resilience. The selfless and determined nature by which she lives life and pursues her passions is inspiring.

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Berkshire Bulletin

What is Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and what impact has it had on you and your family?

Von Steinbergs earned her Wings of Gold in July 2020.

What inspired you to become a pilot and join the U.S. Navy?

I’m always in search of the next adventure and the chance to do something “more” with my life, and the Navy gives you the opportunity to see the world and push your personal limits. Flying on and off of ships in the middle of the ocean, the Navy offers one of the most dynamic, difficult, and dangerous flying environments apart from combat-mission flying. Every qualification, every phase of this career has pushed me to grow and learn more than I ever imagined.

The most rewarding part is working with the fabric of what makes America what it is. You have people from every background and upbringing imaginable. You develop a mutual respect for those who are different from you. I’ve gained a better understanding and love for this country through serving.

There is no sport like Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ). It tests your cardio and endurance, explosiveness, and pure strength.

But the best part is that it is human chess—you begin by learning moves and combinations, you discover how to read another person’s body movement to deceive or set them up, and you start thinking moves ahead.

As an adult who once enjoyed playing sports in high school and college, my life was lacking that competitive aspect.

I actually met my husband in Brazil at the gym through BJJ. He has been a jiujitsu black belt for over 10 years. That is our bonding time. It is great to have something in common that we are both so passionate about.

Von Steinbergs with her husband, Abraão Magalhães, and daughter, Cherry

Class Notes

“I’m always in search of the next adventure and the chance to do something ‘more’ with my life, and the Navy gives you the opportunity to see the world and push your personal limits.”

An avid outdoorswoman, von Steinbergs enjoys the view of Kahana Bay in Kaaawa, HI, from the Crouching Lion hike.

In what ways is your Berkshire experience present in your life today?

What are your fondest memories of your time under the Mountain?

My first taste of aviation and flying was through Berkshire’s aviation science program with Mr. Lee. I will never forget my first solo at the Walter J. Koladza Airport. His passion for aviation was infectious. I try to go about my day with a positive attitude like his.

Additionally, my love for hiking and the outdoors started at Berkshire as well.

Every weekend I would hike up to the different lakes and across the many paths. Here in Hawaii, I continue that tradition and hike every Sunday.

Living so close to nature was amazing. I’ll never forget the walks across campus or through the mountains. Whether those walks were through feet of snow, crunchy fall leaves, or a downpour of spring rain, it was always beautiful.

Reflecting back on my time at Berkshire, the teachers truly are amazing. All of my teachers and coaches worked so hard to provide us with the best and most unique experiences. Some of the opportunities I took advantage of were aviation science, photography, painting, Model UN, environmental

sciences, global politics, and three sports (field hockey, ice hockey, and golf). You don’t find opportunities like that in many other places.

Any advice to today’s students?

Have passion and pursue your dreams, but be open-minded for your life to go down a different path. Not all your plans will go as expected.

I am happy with where I am now, but behind each success and victory, I had many failures or doors and dreams that closed. However, I don’t consider those moments and events failures. They were learning and life experiences that helped shape me.

Class Notes Edition • Winter 2022

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Class Notes

2015

2016

Andrej P. Bogdanovics andrebogdanovics@gmail.com

Peter D. Bahr peteydb@gmail.com

Jeffrey A. Erazo erazo.jeffrey@gmail.com

Natalie C. Harrington natalieharrington17@gmail.com

Hannah Z. Honan hannahzhonan@gmail.com

Lane W. Mayher lane@mayher.com

Grayson G. Keith graysonk5353@gmail.com

Anne M. van ‘t Wout annemijn@vantwout.net

Mackenzie L. Lancaster mackenzie.lancaster13@gmail.com

Karin M. Vantine miavantine97@gmail.com

Chelsea A. Leeds chelsea1101@gmail.com

GET CONNECTED WITH BERKSHIRE SCHOOL CONNECT

Georgia McLanahan ’16, Liam Bullock ’17, and Jake McLanahan ’16 living in New York City and getting together. Photo courtesy Lara Schefler McLanahan ’86

Join Berkshire’s online networking platform!

2017

• Stay up-to-date

Andrea L. Cass cass.and@northeastern.edu

with contacts

• Re-engage with alumni, parents, and students

• Network and give/receive professional advice

• Post job openings

5 th

Margaret P. Curran maggiecurran99@gmail.com Benjamin W. Dixon benwdixon@mac.com Juliana L. Kokot julielkokot@gmail.com

and find leads

• Stay in-the-know about Berkshire events

Connect Download the app today! www.berkshireschoolconnect.com

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Berkshire Bulletin

2018 Charlotte B. Childs charlottebchilds@gmail.com Isabelle W. Maher Isabellewmaher@gmail.com

Class Notes

Births & Adoptions

2002 Vickie Chiang ‘02 and husband, Geoffrey Go, welcomed their son, Griffyn Theodore Chiang Go, on June 24, 2021. He weighed 7.12 pounds and measured 24 inches. He’s already dreaming about his days under the Mountain.

2005 2005 Matt Crowson ’05 and his wife, Catherine, welcomed their first child, Harris “Harry” Crowson, on June 28.

Faculty Mike McCabe and Becky Zavisza McCabe ’05 welcomed new Bear cub, John Michael McCabe, on July 21, 2021. John is sporting his Berkshire football onesie gifted

by Bob Posey ’81.

2008

2005 Kat Kollmer Gaudin ’05 and her husband, Andrew, announce the birth of their daughter, Ashley “Tinin” Elizabeth Gaudin, on June 21, 2021. Tinin with siblings Zoe (3), Robbie (5), and Jack (2).

Erica Ginsberg Murphy ’08 and her husband, Michael Murphy, welcomed their second baby boy into the world on May 30. Crew Lawson Murphy weighed in at 6.6 pounds and measured 20.5 inches. Big brother, Ellis Adam, is loving all the special tasks he’s being asked to help with!

Save the Date!

Join us for an epic climb on Wednesday, April 20, 2022, as the entire Berkshire community comes together in support of our Annual Fund!

All gifts, of all sizes, make a difference.

Help spread the word by showing your giving spirit!

2009 Mike Gardineer ’09 with wife, Katie, and their son, Jack, who was born on April 15, at Mike’s law school graduation in Cleveland, OH, last May

2015 Kay Humes Paz ’15 and her husband, Tyler Paz, welcomed their son, Grayson John Paz, into the world on July 16, 2021, at 12:16 am. He is proud to be a baby Bear!

For more information, please visit www.berkshireschool.org/odfb2022

Class Notes Edition • Winter 2022

23

Class Notes

BACK AGAIN The Class of 2020 Celebrates First-Year Reunion

By Kevin Soja

The Class of 2020, reunited under the Mountain

On August 7–8, the Class of 2020 was invited back to Berkshire for the first time in nearly 18 months for a special, first-ever First-Year Reunion.

When classes were dismissed for spring break in March 2020, members of the Class of 2020 didn’t know they would not be returning to Berkshire to complete their senior year. Timehonored Berkshire traditions like Prom, Senior Dinner, Prize Night, and, most especially, Commencement, were replaced by Zoom gatherings and virtual events. The connection and experience just weren’t the same.

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Berkshire Bulletin

Rather than succumb to disappointment, the seniors continued to lead. They engaged fully and authentically in their virtual classes, challenged us to listen more openly and carefully, and created the Senior Heart, which served as a unifying symbol of hope for their class and for all of Berkshire that spring.

When the Class of 2020 finally gathered under the Mountain again for Reunion, the hugs, smiles, tears, and laughter were plentiful, as was the gratitude they expressed for having been invited “home.”

For nearly 24 hours, the campus was theirs. The alums strolled through old

“My favorite part of returning to Berkshire was simply being here again.”

— Manny Roldan ’20

classrooms, struck up some chords in the Music Center, graced the Allen Theater stage, played Wiffle ball and lawn games in Buck Valley, hiked

Class Notes

“I realized how grateful I am to be able to be a part of the Berkshire community, and how this reunion was exactly what we needed after all of the time we missed our senior year.”

—Eliza Keller ’20

(or drove) up to Guilder Pond, enjoyed a “Senior Dinner” in Benson, danced the night away to live music under a tent, feasted on late-night breakfast sandwiches in Shawn’s Place, and had one last delicious Sunday brunch before departing campus.

The weekend had a powerful impact on so many of the attendees. Alex Gibian ’20 said the reunion gave him the closure he needed after missing so many of the senior milestones and traditions.

“When I was driving away from campus Sunday morning, I saw one of my friends walking alone on the football field,” Gibian recalled. “I stopped my car and hopped out to say goodbye, and after a little chat, I began to walk away. As I was about to step back into my car he called out and said, ‘Happy Graduation!’

It really did feel like that, where I was finally able to ‘graduate’ and officially say goodbye to my time under the Mountain. That, for me, was a proper final moment at Berkshire, condensing all the lifelong memories into a single phrase. Thank you, Berkshire.”

For Eliza Keller ’20, her favorite part of returning to Berkshire was “reuniting with my amazing classmates and teachers, and simply getting to be back on campus, feeling like I never left. As I

drove away, I realized how grateful I am to be able to be a part of the Berkshire community, and how this reunion was exactly what we needed after all of the time we missed our senior year.”

And for some alums, it was the little things that stood out the most. “My favorite part of returning to Berkshire was simply being there again,” Manny Roldan ’20 said. “Playing spike ball and the various activities in Buck Valley really made me feel at home. Sitting in the dining hall once again could not have felt more normal than it did. I really appreciated the faculty who put this event together, and they are part of

the reason why Berkshire felt so ‘homey’ one year after leaving. It feels good to know that Berkshire School is in good hands no matter the time that passes.”

All in all, it was a joyous weekend, and one that was long overdue. Our pride for 2020 is immense, and collectively and individually, these alums represent the best of Berkshire.

To see more photos from the weekend, click here.

To see a video of the weekend, click here.

Class Notes Edition • Winter 2022

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Class Notes

2019 Gohta Aihara gohta.aihara@gmail.com Daniel A. O. Akomolafe dakomolafe8@gmail.com Danielle R. Malarney dmalarney4@gmail.com Elizabeth B. Nutting enut8089@uni.sydney.edu.au James H. Schoudel jayschoudel@gmail.com Elias E. Sienkiewicz ees4@williams.edu Aichen Yao aichenyao07@gmail.com

Former Faculty

The Bears’ Den For campus news, events, and more!

• • • STAY CONNECTED AT berkshireschool.org/bearsden

2020 Katherine R. Aiello kaiello@colgate.edu Ashanti S. Bruce ashantibruce@gmail.com Giang H. Le giangle1605@gmail.com Nathan J. McShane nate.mcshane@richmond.edu

Rob Kerr writes: “Teaching Latin and coaching boys’ soccer at Berkshire from 1981 to 1984 was a great privilege.

Where did the time go? I have been practicing law in Charleston, SC, for 33 years! It is great to keep up with former students and teachers via social media.

Go Bears!”

Ben Urmston writes: “I’m back down in Antarctica. I’m a marine electronics technician on an ice-breaking research vessel, the Nathaniel B. Palmer, operated by the US Antarctic Program for the National Science Foundation.

We’re monitoring the health of the ocean with lots of sampling and also tagging whales and launching some underwater vehicles.”

Emmanuel F. Roldan-Lezcano emmanuelroldan22@gmail.com Amelia C. Schelle aschelle1@tulane.edu

Call for

CLASS NOTES

James T. Welch jtw7ct@virginia.edu

2021 Henry R. Alpaugh henry.alpaugh@richmond.edu

Submit your news online or call 413-229-1907.

Angela B. Ansah angelaansah@gmail.com

Deadline: March 30, 2022, for the Summer 2022 issue

Reid C. Curran reidcurran2@gmail.com

Former faculty Em Putnam with her great-grandson, Cameron. He calls Em “GG” (short for great-grandmother).

John W. Fiore jwf203@gmail.com 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.

Abigail R. Hayes ahayes5541@gmail.com Gillian M. Maher gillianmaher66@gmail.com Nam H. Nguyen hngnam25@gmail.com Sophia R. Pasquale sophiarpasquale@gmail.com

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Berkshire Bulletin

Ed Hunt ’61 with his grandson, Andrew (future Class of 2036), son of Brad ’95

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 obituaries of those listed below. To send obituaries or remembrances of classmates or family members, please email alumni@berkshireschool.org.

Former Faculty/Staff

1958

Thomas H. Dixon, Hon. ’68 July 30, 2021

Howard W. Shaw November 1, 2021

Homer L. Meade II July 2, 2021

1959

James Palmer June 28, 2021

1945 Clifford S. Reuter III July 27, 2021

1949 James F. Doetsch, Jr. August 30, 2021 Monroe B. England August 3, 2021 Sparry W. Sparks October 25, 2021

1953 Edgar C. Fletcher November 15, 2021 Richard E. Pierce, Jr. August 4, 2021

1956 Hawley W. Rogers August 20, 2021 Loren C. White, Jr. November 19, 2021

Thomas A. Kinne July 2, 2021 Prescott G. Tolman August 12, 2021

1962 Frederick C. Leavitt November 26, 2021

1963 Burdett A. Loomis September 25, 2021

1974 Lee H. Clark III June 28, 2021 Samuel W. Meek III September 16, 2021

1975 Charles A. DelGrande August 18, 2021 Neal A. Donaldson September 30, 2021

2000 Anthony F. Stack September 9, 2021

A NOTE TO OUR READERS:

Those included in the In Memoriam section are names reported from June 12 to December 31, 2021. If we have missed someone, please accept our apologies and let us know by emailing alumni@berkshireschool.org. Deceased alumni and faculty and staff will be honored at the Service of Remembrance during Reunion Weekend in June 2022. Remembrances of former Trustee Tom Dixon and former Interim Head of School Hawley Rogers will be shared in the Summer 2022 issue of the Berkshire Bulletin.

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From the Archives

Berkshire’s Beginnings Letters From One Headmaster to Another in 1907

Before there was Berkshire, there was an idea of Berkshire, and it was up to founders Seaver and Anne Buck to make it a reality. In the spring of 1907, Mr. Buck, then departing from his role as acting headmaster of Hackley School in Tarrytown, N.Y., wrote to The Hotchkiss School Headmaster Huber G. Buehler for “the unbiased opinions of a man who has had wide experience in schools.”

In the letters—veritable gems from the Hotchkiss School Archives—one can feel Mr. Buck’s wild hope and desire for a school of his own. In their search to set up shop in the Berkshires, the Bucks visited Glenny Farm (“on the Under Mountain Road—twelve miles north of Hotchkiss”), and described the future home of Berkshire this way: “The picture of Black Rock and the Dome, the pine-clad hills and the wide sweep of the valleys possess our minds and color our dreams.”

By the second letter of their correspondence, just one month later, the Bucks were full steam ahead, having leased Glenny Farm. Mr. Buck asked Mr. Buehler, “Can you tell me whether or not there is a ‘Berkshire’ school anywhere in the Berkshire hills? I have it in my plan to give my small school that name unless someone has forestalled me.” And with Mr. Buehler’s reply—“I think the name is an excellent one, and I am glad you are on your way to getting established”—the Bucks were one step closer to their dreams.

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Berkshire Bulletin

Letters courtesy of The Hotchkiss School Archives.

By Bebe Clark Bullock ’86

From the Archives

April 29, 1907 Dear Mr. Buehler: I try to bother you with a question of school ethics is—call it anything you please.

I am going to open a school next fall, probably somewhere in the Berkshires. The exact location, I do not yet know and, indeed, I know chiefly that I shall make my beginning, and that I shall have two admirable men to help me, with Mrs. Buck to manage the household affairs. My question is this: I am still in the employ of Hackley School. My resignation, which has been accepted, taking effect at the close of the school year in June. I have had applications from some parents who have boys at Hackley to receive them into my new school. Have I a right to consider such applications? Also, have I a right to issue a circular advertising my venture in a general way? I do not refer to a legal right, but what is the custom of schools. Men are not infrequently leaving the schools where they have taught for years and have set up for themselves. I know of two such cases where the school did all in its power to assist the new ventures.

That does not seem to be the description here, and I should be glad to have the unbiased opinions of a man who has had wide experience in schools.

You will understand, of course, that there is not the remotest thought in my mind of luring boys away from Hackley and into my fold. But if boys are actually withdrawn, boys who might actually turn to me, I should heartily dislike to lose them because I could not speak until after this plan had to be settled.

Thank you in advance for all I am giving you.

Sincerely yours, Seaver Buck Even in his excitement, Mr. Buck worried about their new beginning: Did he have a right to bring Hackley students with him to his new school? Mr. Buehler’s reply, in brief: “. . . entirely proper and only fair to you and the patrons.”

By the next let ter, the Bucks were full steam ahead and deciding on a name for their school.

May 25, 1907 My dear Mr. Buehler: Can you tell me whether or not there is a “Berkshire” School anywhere in the Berkshire Hills? I have it in my plan to give my small school that name unless someone has forestalled me.

I shall be very glad to have any information which you may be able to give me.

I shall presume that you will be interested to know I have leased the Glenny Farm on the Under Mountain Road–twelve miles north of Hotchkiss in Sheffield. The country is one of rare beauty and should be healthful.

Very graciously yours, Seaver Buck

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LEAVE A LEGACY. SUPPORT BERKSHIRE’S FUTURE.

“The three years I spent under the Mountain continue to pay dividends 20-plus years after graduating. The concept of including Berkshire in my estate plan goes part and parcel with our motto: Pro Vita Non Pro Schola Discimus. The investment one makes in Berkshire can provide for the current school year or capital project, and it can also provide for future years, projects, and people, ensuring that the experience Berkshire has given us will be given to those who succeed us under the Mountain.”

–Joe Seigle ’01

Pay it forward.

In this constantly changing world, we know everyone is carefully considering which deserving organizations to support. We would be honored to discuss the many ways you can support Berkshire’s future with a tax-saving legacy gift.

If you’d like to learn more about planning your Berkshire legacy, please contact Director of Planned Giving and Major Gifts Bill Bullock at (413) 229-1368 or wbullock@berkshireschool.org.

Joe Seigle is a proud member of the John F. Godman Society, Berkshire’s planned giving society.

He graduated in 2001 and was allschool president his senior year.

Learn more at berkshireschool.planningyourlegacy.org.

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Berkshire Bulletin

JUNE 10–12, 2022

Please join us for Berkshire’s first-ever

TRIPLE-CLASS REUNION! THIS YEAR, WE’RE EXCITED TO WELCOME ALL ’0s,’1s, ’2s, ’5s, ’6s, AND ’7s BACK TO THE MOUNTAIN.

Come back to see old friends, hike the trails, enjoy a clambake under the tent, and gather for a festive dinner and dancing on Saturday night.

www.berkshireschool.org/reunionweekend

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245 North Undermountain Road, Sheffield, Massachusetts 01257 www.berkshireschool.org