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EXPECT TO LEARN, EXPECT TO HAVE FUN
Brewster Academy Summer Session It’s a school It’s a camp It’s a blend of academics and adventure recreation To learn more or reserve your place on the lake, contact the Office of Summer Programs at Brewster Academy. Summer Programs Office • 603-569-7155 • summer@brewsteracademy.org
STRENGTH IN NUMBERS ALUMNI PARTICIPATION CHALLENGE In a class participation project, photography instructor Steve Burgess captured this image of four students writing in the air with cell phones. The light from the first two phones is from the phones’ LCD screens, while the other six phones were set on flashlight mode. The writers are: Jessica Choi ’15 (Chungbuk, Korea), Skyler Sherman ’14 (Sunapee, New Hampshire), Samantha Bryan ’13 (Sanford, Maine), and Brendan Quirk ’12 (Portsmouth, New Hampshire), who came up with the idea.
Brewster Academy 2011-2012 Board of Trustees Daniel T. Mudge, Chair (Tapley-Ann ’98, Ashley ’02)
Karen W. Fix (Will ’11, Keenan ’13)
Leslie N. H. MacLeod, Vice Chair (Todd ’97)
Peter Ford ’80
Roy C. Ballentine, Treasurer (Brian ’97, Susan ’94) Douglas H. Greeff, Secretary (Hilary ’11) Michael Appe
Michael Keys (Matthew ’04) Barbara Naramore Arthur O. Ricci Estate Trustee The Reverend Nancy Spencer Smith Estate Trustee
What if you could give Brewster $100,000?
You can!
Alumni support is at the heart of every great school. Last year, 8 percent of alumni made a gift to Brewster. A group of alumni and parents believes we can do better, and they feel so strongly about it that they have issued a challenge to double alumni participation this year.
Steven R. Webster (Brooke ’08, Tori ’11)
If at least 600 alumni make a gift to Brewster this year, a group of challenge donors will contribute $100,000 to the Annual Fund.
Candace Crawshaw ’64
Trustee Emeriti
These donors are sending a simple but powerful message – your participation matters.
Claudine Curran (Alex ’06, Gen ’11)
Walter N. “Rink” DeWitt ’54 (Kate ’86)
George J. Dohrmann III (George ’05, Geoffrey ’12)
P. Fred Gridley ’53 (Deborah ’81)
Stephen C. Farrell Sr. (Stephen Jr. ’12)
Grant M. Wilson (Grant ’87, Kirsten ’88)
C. Richard Carlson Estate Trustee David L. Carlson ’54 Arthur W. Coviello Jr.
Make your gift online today at www.brewsteracademy.org/Strength-In-Numbers-Challenge or call 603.569.7485
BrewsterConnections Spring 2012
Head of School Dr. Michael E. Cooper
Director of Admission and External Affairs
Inside 2 Head Lines
Reflecting on Early Philosophy
Lynne M. Palmer
4 Emotions Matter
Editor, Director of Communications
Marcia Eldredge
Contributors Jay Anctil, Jim Bastis, Dr. Marc Brackett, Dr. Michael Cooper, Marcia Eldredge, Beth Hayes ‘81, Peter Hess, Matt Hoopes, Kristy Kerin, Bob Richardson, Shirley Richardson, Jason Smith, Sally Smith, Martha Trepanier ‘83
Photography Steve Allen, Brewster Academy Archives, Adrien Broom ’98, Andrea Cooper, Marcia Eldredge, David Fox, Beth Hayes ’81, BG Hodges ’66, Matt Hoopes, Willie Kenyon ‘12, Rebecca Marisseau ’12, Davis Olson ’13, Kim Ross, Skyler Sherman ’14, Sally Smith, Richard Orr Sports, Phil Stiles, Martha Trepanier ’83, Kate Turner
Social and Emotional Learning
6 Project-Based Learning Evolves
Students find meaning in senior projects
11 Conference Affirms Direction of Brewster Program
The latest discoveries about learning and the brain
12 Dr. Cooper, a Klingenstein Fellow 14 Great Brewster Moments
Alumni from across the decades share their greatest moments
16 Talent on the Shoreline 19 Bobcat Nation Live on ESPN
The top-ranked prep school team in the country draws live coverage
26 Strength in Numbers
Will alumni meet this challenge?
28 Hoopla The Quarter-Century Club BrewsterConnections is published twice a year and mailed to alumni, parents of students, and friends of Brewster Academy 80 Academy Drive Wolfeboro, NH 03894 www.brewsteracademy.org ©2012 Brewster Academy. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.
Community members reflect on 25 years at Brewster
Cover Design Sanqunetti Design
Departments 20 Newsmakers 24 On the Road 38 Class Notes 44 In Memoriam 46 Writing Brewster’s History
Reflecting on the Relevancy of
Early Philosophy
H
ow is it possible that the writings of a 16th century French
the heat of things is solid advice. Too often we only look at what it is we need
philosopher and essayist can grab your attention in such a way
to do and do not spend enough time on why we are doing what we are doing,
as to cause you to reflect on education today from the frame of
and whether there might be a different process to bring into play other than
reference of the 1500s? What could possibly have been written
the way our experience is telling us how it should be accomplished. Spending a
about educating a child in 1580 that was so prescient as to be considered in a
full two weeks on contemporary independent school topics, along with larger
seminar for heads of schools in 2012? What makes these writings as applicable
issues facing secondary education, was confirming with regard to how each of
today as when they were written almost 500 years ago? The answer to these,
our schools was addressing these topics, yet it also was mind expanding in that it
and other questions, were each taken into careful consideration at the recent
allowed us to talk about things without concern of being judged or evaluated to
Heads of Schools Fellowship Program at the Klingenstein Center, Teachers College
consider new ways of thinking and approaches to our challenges.
Columbia University, in which I had the good fortune of participating (see page 14 for a Q&A on my experience).
But back to my original question about what can be learned from a 16th century philosopher and essayist that has relevance to the 21st century. Certainly there
So often is the case where, as heads of schools, we are called upon to act and
are any number of conclusions that can be taken from the writings of Michel
make decisions without much time for reflection. To be in a situation where
de Montaigne (certainly framed by our own experiences, as we are the product
it’s all about reflection and thinking differently about contemporary issues in
of our experience), but one of the more salient points from his writings on the
independent school education was a readjustment process of some degree, and
education of children speaks to a viewpoint through the lens of the 16th century
refreshing. To have the luxury of time to consider different facets of education
that is as commonly held today as it was then. “I know nothing about education
that are confronted by heads of schools on a daily basis, and to do that with 19
except this: that the greatest and the most important difficulty known to human
other heads from around the world, was invaluable.
learning seems to lie in that area which treats how to bring up children and how to educate them.” To underscore his point, he turns to the use of metaphor and
First, it was gratifying to be able to draw upon my personal experience to put
how raising and educating a child is just like farming. You can spend time plowing
into context what was being read and to consider how these were related to our
and preparing the ground before planting seeds, but it’s in the cultivation and
individual settings. As Heads, when we were students the first time around, our
nurturing of the young plant that can determine its outcome. The challenge
level of experience was limited by the stage of our careers that we were in at the
becomes supplying the proper amount of fertilizer and water to the plant to help
time. Approaching these same issues with a broader frame of reference allowed
it thrive toward producing the desired end product. Yet, even with the proper
for a much deeper level of consideration of the topics before us. Besides what
amount of nurturing, events along the way, like weather and amount of sunlight,
was taken away from the experience regarding the general topics with which we
can alter the shape of the plant and what kind and how much fruit it will bear.
were presented and perspectives that were offered, the importance of taking
Because of this indeterminate outcome, he suggests that we should guide
time to reflect and consider issues was an equally important element that I have
children along the way to be their best and help them find their chosen path and
come away with from participating. I was reminded of what retired Lieutenant
to not place too much emphasis on how they will turn out based on how they
General Hal Moore said about the importance of taking time for reflection. While
act along the way; that flowers bloom at different times and rates and to rush a
heads of schools are not in the throes of battle (although at times it feels that
blossom is to potentially spoil the flower. As a late bloomer myself, I can easily
way) as Lt. Gen. Moore was, the principle of taking time out for reflection in
identify with Montaigne’s admonition about not locking a child into a path based
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BrewsterConnections – Spring 2012
on what may be known at a particular stage of development. For me, it wasn’t
knowing it by heart; that simply means putting it in the larder of our memory.
until I reached college that my path became a lot clearer and I started to get my
That which we rightly ‘know’ can be deployed without looking back at the model,
act together (a story for another time). His overall goal for a child’s education is
without turning our eyes back towards the book. What a wretched ability it is
not for them to necessarily be an erudite individual, but one who can successfully
which is purely and simply bookish! Book-learning should serve as an ornament
navigate life based on a broad set of experiences; as he states, the end goal of
not as a foundation.”
education should be an individual with a well-formed versus a well-filled mind. And when you consider his thoughts in the context of what you will find in the Considering Montaigne’s perspective and orientation to education to what
pages that follow, his writings are quite visionary when you consider where
is offered at Brewster with our new emphasis on project-based learning and
Brewster Academy is today after 125 years and where we are headed – building
emotional literacy, I can see even more the threads between what he was saying
upon the tried and true and rethinking the core elements of what education is
in 1580 and how apropos his thoughts are for today. His writings offer another
about.
way of examining how important it is to not simply know something, but how impactful it is to be able to understand its usefulness and application. While not easy reading, I would encourage anyone to explore Montaigne’s writings. His validation of the timelessness of education in so many respects is worthy of our consideration. As Montaigne reminds us: “Knowing something does not mean
Dr. Michael E. Cooper, Head of School
Intentional Growth: Thoughtfully Educating the Whole Student Brewster has a long history of responding to the needs of its students with progressive programs that reflect best practices in education. Core tenets define how Brewster has chosen to educate students and how the Academy has chosen to define what it means to be a professional in the field of education – tenets that have endured time and exist today.
Brewster’s Core Tenets: • Schools exist for teaching and learning. All activities of the school must be referenced to this assumption in clear, unambiguous and demonstrable ways. • Schools prepare students to lead successful, fulfilling, responsible lives. Values and character are as important as academic skills and should be articulated and taught in an integrated curriculum. • A school’s curriculum is organized around the assumption that all students can and must learn. • Teaching is a profession. True professions have a body of professional knowledge and standards of practice. • Teachers should demand that learning occur. Learners should demand high expectations and a curriculum with teaching practices that meet their needs. • A true learning community ensures that everyone at Brewster shares responsibility for the growth and development of one another in the community. A commitment to teamwork makes this possible. • Schools should be judged by the extent to which they reach their teaching and learning goals and by the standards of the profession. They should be able to demonstrate how program fosters the student achievement of goals. • Technology is an invaluable tool for learning. Use of technology in the program should be planned to meet outcomes and evaluated accordingly. For a description of the practices and programs noted on the cover, please go to the document Education at Brewster Academy: Preparing Students for the 21st Century (2010), which is available at www.brewsteracademy.org/headlines
www.brewsteracademy.org
3
Emotions Matter The Relevancy and Advantages of Social and Emotional Learning Marc Brackett, Ph.D., is the lead developer of The RULER Approach to Social and Emotional Learning. At Yale University, Dr. Brackett is a research scientist in the department of psychology; deputy director of the Health, Emotion, and Behavior Laboratory (HEB); and head of the Emotional Intelligence Unit in the Edward Zigler Center in Child Development and Social Policy. He created the first experiential course on emotional intelligence for undergraduates at Yale and also codeveloped a course on the same topic for aspiring school leaders at Teachers College, Columbia University. He has been working with Brewster Academy on integrating The RULER Approach into the Brewster curriculum since June 2010. On a recent visit to campus, he sat down for a Q & A with Brewster Connections.
Describe Emotional Literacy Dr. Brackett: Emotional literacy comprises five key emotion skills. We use the acronym – RULER – to communicate these skills, which are: Recognizing emotions in oneself and others Understanding the causes and consequences of emotions Labeling the full range of emotions using a rich vocabulary Expressing emotions appropriately in different contexts
in consciously regulating emotion is critical to our mental health and
Regulating emotions effectively to foster healthy relationships and
relationships. My work focuses on teaching the skills of emotional
achieve goals
intelligence or the RULER skills. This work started when I collaborated with my uncle in the mid 1990s on our first emotional literacy training
The work we do in schools with adults and children focuses on the
program. Teaching emotional literacy in school is critical because research
integration of The RULER Approach into all aspects of the school day.
has shown that students trained in The RULER Approach perform
What’s critical about our work is giving people the knowledge, skills, and
significantly better in academics and are more socially and emotionally
tools that help to develop their emotion skills. In turn, they embody a
competent than students who have not been trained.
range of behaviors and attitudes to better position themselves for success in academics, careers, and relationships. How we handle our emotions
How do you implement this program within schools?
has a huge impact on our decisions, and research has shown that emotion
Dr. Brackett: Everybody with a face has to be trained … students,
skills are integral to personal, social, and academic success.
teachers, support staff, administrators. We want to make sure that everyone who interacts with students receives training.
What is the origin of Emotional Literacy programming and why is it relevant today?
It’s also important to have continuous training. We’ve learned that
Dr. Brackett: The HEB Lab was founded by Dr. Peter Salovey – who in
our understanding of emotions and ability to regulate emotions shifts
the late 1980s and early 1990s conducted seminal research on emotional
throughout life. Consider high school students’ decisions about cutting
intelligence with his colleague, Dr. John Mayer of the University of New
class, having sex, or using illicit drugs. For 99 percent of these students,
Hampshire. Their research focused on how different moods influence
they know what the right decisions are, but they need to know how to
decision making and how emotion management and self-control impact
regulate their emotions when making the decision to use or not use drugs,
important life outcomes. Drs. Salovey and Mayer merged these studies
for example. The more advanced work we do with high school students
into the field of emotional intelligence
is to teach them ways to regulate emotions and to think critically about their high school success, including what they want to do after high
The study of emotional intelligence has since been scientifically validated,
school. Consider a student who wants to be the captain of a sports team. If
and we now know that emotions matter in our daily decision making.
the student, through various assessments, learns that he can’t read facial
Emotions drive much of what we do in our life. Although the many
expressions, we would help the student to better understand expressions
ways we regulate emotions occur outside of our awareness, our skill
so he could be an effective team leader. Or, perhaps, the student wants to
4
BrewsterConnections – Spring 2012
apply to a competitive university, but has trouble focusing and needs to raise his GPA. This student would need to practice relaxation techniques and other skills to focus his attention.
What are the greatest advantages to students and schools that implement The RULER Approach? Dr. Brackett: There is a lot of data to show that highly emotionally intelligent people are more successful. In the workplace, the RULER skill that is particularly important is the last R – Regulate. You can have an expert at work who has all the knowledge in the world about her field but who lacks emotion regulation skills. People likely will not want to be
Meet the Brewster Trainers Anne Marie Allwine School Counselor, Coach Bret Barnett Math Department Chair, Math Teacher Marsha Brooks
around this person because she doesn’t know how to regulate emotions.
Administrative Assistant, Business Office
Students (and employees) who have identified what we call their “best
Matt Butcher
self” and are both socially aware and able to self-regulate are setting
English Department Chair, English Teacher, Coach
themselves up for success. Such skills have been identified by employers as critical to success in the workplace, so students who develop these skills early clearly have an advantage.
What was the attraction of working with Brewster Academy? Dr. Brackett: What’s wonderful about working with a school like Brewster Academy is that it’s a boarding school and the first one that we have had the opportunity to bring our work to. It’s brought many challenges and interesting successes. For me, I am interested in the selfcontained environment of a boarding school where students attend class and live together. From my experience with the school, the program is being reinforced throughout the day in different settings, which is ideal. Students can work on their emotional literacy skills outside of the class day. They can really think about the environment that they want to create within their dorm family and practice the skills 24/7. Additionally, we plan to track ninth graders over time on their growth in areas like emotional vocabulary, emotion regulation, and school performance. One piece we are really excited about is a research project to track students beyond their four years at Brewster. Our goal is to answer questions like “Do the RULER skills students learned at Brewster predict student success in college? Does the training impact their decision making in college?” So, it’s nice to do a study to track the transfer of skills to the next environment. This is particularly important for parents to see, so that they, too, value the training that Brewster is providing their students. As Dr. Brackett and his research team are based at Yale University in Connecticut, he knew it was not possible for his team to be at Brewster often. “We wanted to work with a few key people as master trainers who would become the resident experts for the school,” he explained. Dr. Brackett and his colleagues worked with the school management team at Brewster to select the team of employees who would become the key
Allie Cooper IS Teacher, Director of Student Development Laura Cooper Team Leader, Spanish Teacher, Coach Michael E. Cooper, Ph.D. Head of School Laura Duffy Dean of College Counseling Joe Fernald Dean of Students Maria Found Math Teacher, CLP Lauren Hunter IS Teacher, CLP Tara Junkin Art Teacher, Coach Jaime Laurent Dean of Campus Affairs, CLP Rob O’Blenis Science Teacher, CLP
trainers. He then spent about one week doing intense training with these folks and makes about two visits per year for follow-up training. Now the school has progressed to making sure that students are learning and becoming comfortable developing their RULER skills.
www.brewsteracademy.org
5
Projects Shaping Senior Year By Marcia Eldredge
T
hree years ago, when members of the Class of 2012 were
a continuum from freshman to senior year that moves students from
sophomores, Brewster began incorporating project-based
conducting research and sharing information to actually developing
learning (PBL) into its curriculum. Always keenly aware of its
creative solutions that address a problem or issue. We want projects to
responsibilities to prepare students for college and beyond, Brewster’s
empower students to be resourceful and innovative,” Hess said.
PBL curriculum provides a learning process for students to develop the academic, thinking, problem-solving, technology, and interpersonal skills
Currently, senior projects are required to fulfill one of the following
that reflect what employers are calling for in their 21 century employees.
criteria:
Since that time, the PBL initiative has been incrementally initiated so that
• Solve a real-world problem.
for the 2011-2012 school year all freshmen, sophomores, and juniors will
• Seek to answer a question.
be involved in PBL work. Seniors will have a unique project experience.
• Create an original piece of thought or expression.
st
• Create something original that is useful or meaningful to someone else. “Seniors work on their project throughout the year, which gives
• Undertake an apprenticeship or internship.
them a chance to cover the topic of their choice in more depth than underclassmen and really create a capstone product for their final year
“We are trying to move students in the direction of doing something that
at Brewster,” explained Dean of Studies Peter Hess. “It also gives them
benefits others. While that isn’t a requirement this year, we hope to move
the chance, depending on the nature of their project, to do research that
in this direction of students finding creative, imaginative ideas that can
gets tracked over a period of time. We have greater expectations for what
hopefully make a difference for others,” Hess said.
seniors will produce.” Here we present five senior projects: two projects that, if successful, will Underclassmen projects are completed within a two-week period at the
help make a difference in the lives of others; two projects that will educate
end of the year, a time once reserved for exams. “We have envisioned
others; and one internship.
Amy Misera’s First Homes Foundation
I
f Amy Misera’s (Cockeysville, Maryland) senior project goes as
raising money, making
planned, it could make a difference in the lives of Russia’s youngest
connections, and that
citizens. Adopted from a Russian orphanage at age 1, Amy wanted to
“everything works better
do something unique, to give back. “I have been given so much, including
when you have people who
the chance to come to Brewster. I’ve been lucky. Coming from where I did,
believe in the cause and are
I was given a second chance and thought I should do something with it.”
there for you.”
Her goal is simple: to raise money to buy materials and supplies, like
At the beginning of senior
blankets and medicines – basic things that are not necessarily affordable
year, seniors are required
to the orphanage but will make Samara 2 a more comfortable place to live
to write and then present
for the babies and children while they await adoption – and deliver them
a project proposal to the
herself.
senior team faculty. The proposal had to show that
The First Homes Foundation is her vision. Her senior project could just
her project fit into one of
make it a reality.
five categories. After her
Amy Misera
proposal was accepted, she The summer before her senior year, Amy spent time interning at the
was then required to create an action plan that would show the project
non-profit organization Children Across Borders. Here she learned about
had reasonable expectations for a successful completion.
6
BrewsterConnections – Spring 2012
Project-Based Learning Evolves Once her action plan was accepted, Amy was ready to take the first step
“This is really different than anything I’ve ever done before or anything in
toward creating her foundation, including writing a mission statement,
the classroom. Creating foundations isn’t something I’ve learned in school;
creating a team, finding financial backers, and getting accredited, which
I’m kind of going in blind. I don’t know what to expect because I’ve never
she can do now that she is 18.
done it before. It’s not research. It’s doing. It’s action. I know there is a chance of failure but there is chance of success.”
After writing to the orphanage and receiving no response, Amy began a different approach. “I have branched out and am using outside resources of
At the time of this interview, Amy was drafting and editing her mission
people and organizations that might have connections back to the orphanage.”
statement, but at the conclusion of her Brewster senior project, she says “I will have a foundation I’ve created and go into life helping other kids; I’m
English class is the one course that has helped her the most with skills
taking steps to help kids who are like me.”
most applicable to her project, she says. “English has helped with writing flow and using proper English because my mission statement and other writing have to be official, professional.”
Seeking Alternative Energy An attempt to build and demonstrate a simple way to generate energy
I
t was a physics class that sparked a senior project topic for Adam
Once the machine is closed
Kolb (New Durham, New Hampshire) and Brady Palmer (Wolfeboro).
off and the mass is locked
“In physics class we were making an energy efficient home for a third
in and burns, it should not
world country and one of the things that we thought of in the project
give off an odor, Adam was
was a methane toilet,” explained Adam, referring to the gas that could be
quick add.
collected for use as fuel. “Then we cleaned it up a little and thought we would do organic material.” “Our goal is to create a biomasss generator that we can use here at the school, not just to leave behind at the school, but so other students can pick up and evolve it,” he added.
Just how easy is it? Physics has played a huge part as far as understanding energy efficiency yet we want to make something that someone doesn’t need a background in science to build, Adam said. We want to keep it simple so that our prototype could be used by a developing country, Brady added. “We found that over eight-weeks at 80 degrees F the biomass compost would create enough methane gas that’s flammable. Aside from cooking you could use it for heating and lighting,” Adam explained. Although we could harvest the compost right on campus from dining hall waste, according to Mr. Gorrill pig manure is the most potent for creating methane and that is available from local farmers, explained Brady, adding that they were still working out the logistics of transporting this organic matter back to campus.
Classroom Impact Both boys attributed time spent working in STAD groups (student team achievement divisions) to their ability to understand
Adam Kolb
what it takes to work within a group, including not splitting up work but learning how to function effectively as a team. “When you are working in a STAD, you know how to split up the work. When you work with a group you learn you need to split up the work for the good of the group to get things done,” Brady explained. “When we have two ideas about the same thing, we
Brady Palmer
www.brewsteracademy.org
7
Project-Based Learning Evolves have learned to mesh our ideas together to create one we both agree on,”
second attempt was more successful and Adam noted that a visit might
Adam added.
help them determine just what not to do.
Learning best practices in research skills from
We want to be able to
the librarians and the necessity of strong time management are other learned skills that have been helpful with their project.
toast marshmallows for our classmates during
The boys admitted that there is still a lot of grey
our presentation.
area in the project and that the hardest part of the project would be to determine how the fuel would be
They were also planning to seek guidance from alumnus Josh Arnold ’01, executive director of G.A.L.A. (Global Awareness Local Action). “GALA’s wide knowledge of energy efficient resources will surely help us when we go forward with our project,” Adam said. By late spring, when Brady and Adam have to
harvested.
present their biomass generator project, they hope it will be a roast of sorts, serving their classmates marshmallows roasted from the heat of the
They still need to figure out what container will be used for the
generator. “I’m hoping that if we make an efficient generator, we can share
composting and harvesting. They were planning a visit to a regional
it with the community and another group can evolve the project to find an
company that initially had failed at building just such a container but a
efficient way to save money and energy,” Brady said.
Mackenzie Boardman’s Medical Internship
I
chose an internship because it relates to more of what I’m interested
For my classmates with
in doing, studying orthopedic medicine. I’d rather enjoy and be
an interest in the field of
interested in what I’m researching than feel like I’m being forced to
medicine, hopefully my
do a project.
final presentation will assure them of that career
During March break, I’m planning to intern back home in Anchorage,
choice or possibly the work
Alaska, with a gastroenterologist. Hopefully it’ll involve shadowing him
environment I learn about
and will allow me to ask plenty of questions of what it took to be where
may cause some students to
he’s at now, what it takes to become a doctor, and also what his daily life
change ideas about studying
as a gastroenterologist is like.
medicine. I hope my internship will help show me
Throughout different classes at Brewster I have had to do numerous presentations.
become a doctor
From these I’ve gained
and both the pros
experience in speaking clearly and maintaining eye contact during a
and cons of being a
presentation. I have also learned numerous ways to present information
doctor.
using technology, which gives me a freedom to choose how I want to present my information.
8
BrewsterConnections – Spring 2012
Mackenzie Boardman
what it takes to
Local Archaeology: Digging up the Past
W
hen day students Rebecca Marisseau (Tuftonboro, New
“Ultimately, we want to
Hampshire) and Keke Roberts (Wolfeboro) complete their
present a museum exhibit
senior project, they hope to have added a chapter to the local
to our peers, but we have
history books. Through an archeology dig, the girls’ project should teach them about the
learned that it has to be interesting for them,” Rebecca explained.
past, including how people lived in the 1800s, while helping to preserve that way of life through their findings.
As veteran project researchers and presenters,
The dig will take place when the New Hampshire ground thaws on the
both girls have learned how
Marisseau’s Tuftonboro property where an old foundation share’s space
important it is to make their
with the Marisseau’s relatively new home.
project relevant to peers. “I’ve learned to tailor what
“Our property is located in what is historically the center of Tuftonboro
I’m presenting to what
so the foundation could have been just a house. Remnants of a center
people are interested in.
chimney have led us to believe someone might have lived there at one
Just because I’m interested
point,” Rebecca explained. “The foundation looks relatively small but it
in something or Keke is
fits into the category of buildings for the 1800s.” According to Rebecca,
interested, it isn’t necessarily
houses built in the 1800s placed their chimneys in the center of the
what others are interested
structure.
in,” Rebecca said.
“We know that the general store located nearby was a tourist destination
Both girls say they have
at one point. We know that there are postcards of the area and that the
honed their research
area was pretty much cleared of trees,” she shared. The girls are hoping
skills with the help of the
that old postcards will show what might have been on the property.
librarians and AP classes,
As part of their research, they plan to visit a local antiques store and
which have taught them the
interview a local historian.
importance of finding the
Rebecca Marisseau
primary source. Rebecca explained that the actual process of going about uncovering
Keke Roberts
artifacts is tedious and includes marking off a small designated area
At the time of the interview,
and scraping away dirt little by little. Within the approximately 20 x 13
Rebecca and Keke were still
perimeter of the foundation, Rebecca already has discovered a stove, a
narrowing the scope of the project but they knew that what they wanted
pepper shaker, pots and pans, and medicine bottles, one imprinted with
to share with their classmates was an exhibit that will identify what the
the words Burdock Blood Bitters.
building was and reveal something about local life in the 1800s.
“Right now given our time constraints the process of the dig is quite minimal,” Rebecca explained. “The time constraints she is referring to is the two-week period at the end of the trimester when students can fully devote themselves to their projects rather than preparing for and taking exams. Because both girls take AP courses, however, they also will have exams during this time. “I like the projects more than the finals because it’s different and it’s something we were really interested in and it just made it more fun for us,” Keke said, referring to previous years.
www.brewsteracademy.org
9
Project-Based Learning Evolves
From Hard Copy to Hard Drives The Shifting World of the Music Industry
T
echnology innovation and evolution has left its imprint on the
They expect the
recording industry in challenging ways. Brian Weisbord (Los
interviews will
Angeles) and Logan Floyd (Essex Connecticut) plan to examine
help hone their
how these challenges impact both the industry and music consumers
interviewing skills.
today.
For their sophomore and junior projects,
“We want to get into the world of the music industry and see how it’s
Brian completed two
been changed by small independent labels, the Internet, and blogs. I’m
documentaries and
involved in the online music scene because I make my own music and
Logan produced two
release my own stuff,” explained Brian, who aspires to be a documentary
movies, and they are
filmmaker.
counting on the lessons learned from these
“We also want to look at how artists in different parts of the country go
projects to make their
about getting recognized, because we know it’s not the same in every
more in-depth senior
city,” he added.
projects stronger. As an
Brian Weisbord
example, Brian has learned These seniors want to gain a better understanding of how the music
he needs more media to
industry works today in a world where the latest recording is accessible
round out his film.
and downloadable to the world in seconds. “In the past you cut a record and getting it pirated was much less likely. Now we live in this super
“On my first project
sharing environment that is the Internet. Everyone is connected to iTunes
I didn’t have enough
and people are sharing things back and forth, and I want to see what
film, and I had no
really goes on behind the scenes in the music industry,” Brian said.
B-roll,” he laughed, referring to background
Sharing music can be good for some artists, Brian explained while it
footage that helps set
might not be good for others, depending on where they are in their music
the context of a film.
careers. “A lot of people who want to be recognized will pass around their music for free … there’s this digital compulsiveness to share everything,
Ultimately they will
but then when they are recognized, they are less willing to give it away.”
produce a documentary to present to their
He continued, “The business model for the music industry is really
Logan Floyd
classmates and teachers.
messed up. Bands barely make money off of the music they sell; the money is all in touring. The artists barely get any cut of their music. That’s
We plan to benefit by knowing we can start with an idea, make
part of what we will be looking at.”
connections to that idea or topic, do something really interesting with it, and connect it back to our classmates in a meaningful and entertaining
Brian and Logan plan to interview music executives, independent artists, producers, and bloggers among other industry professionals. Since it’s a documentary, they plan to conduct as many face-to-face interviews as possible and video the meetings.
10
BrewsterConnections – Spring 2012
way, Logan explained.
Conference Affirms Direction of Brewster Program By Marcia Eldredge
T
hrough the generous support of Brewster’s professional
take steps to nurture creativity in their students. Brewster’s project-based
development program, Dean of Studies Peter Hess attended
learning initiative, in which students have the freedom to explore topics
the Learning & the Brain Conference in Boston in November.
of their choice and develop creative, useful solutions to problems, speaks
The conference brought together teachers, school administrators,
directly to how Brewster is cultivating this concept.
psychologists, and clinicians from around the world to hear researchers share their latest discoveries in neuroscience and their implications for
Robert Swartz, Ph.D., director of the National Center for Teaching
teaching, interventions, and curriculum.
Thinking, discussed the value in decentralizing the classroom into small groups and the importance of teaching students how to work well
The conference’s title, “Preparing 21st Century Minds: Using Brain
in groups. Brewster has been committed to the concept of teamwork
Research to Enhance Cognitive Skills for the Future,” was what piqued
and collaboration for nearly two decades, and the school curriculum’s
Hess’s interest. Brewster works hard to ensure that its academic program
intentional cooperative learning practices accomplish this objective
prepares students for the world in which they will learn and live, and
extremely well.
Hess was curious to see if the information presented at the conference would affirm that Brewster’s program is current in proven best practices in teaching and learning for student success. Several ideas shared at the conference had direct connections to how Brewster has evolved
Suzy Cox, Ph.D, researcher on the impact
The conference affirmed that Brewster’s curriculum is current in proven best practices in teaching and learning for student success.
of technology in education, advocated for schools to adopt certain technology tools that will help support the “Five Minds for the Future” advocated by author Howard Gardner. She touted the value in taking advantage of technological resources as a way to engage
in recent years. For example, Charles K. Fadel,
students more deeply in a variety of higher
co-author of 21st Century Skills: Learning for Life
order thinking skills. Some of the tools that she
in Our Times (2009) called for schools to rethink what is taught around
promoted were tools that engaged students in the gathering and analysis
three dimensions – knowledge, skills, and character – and to achieve a
of real time data, podcasting, website creation, blogging, and media
“balance between direct instruction and projects.” Brewster has recently
creation. These tools have been a part of Brewster’s technology repertoire
revised its curriculum to find the appropriate balance between content
for many years so, again, this affirmed the relevancy and importance of
coverage in different disciplines and the application of that knowledge
Brewster’s curriculum.
through its project-based learning initiative. Fadel’s words confirmed that Brewster is on the right track with these types of revisions.
The above is just a sample of the direct connections to the Brewster program that Hess found as he listened to the various experts. The
Harvard researcher Shelley Carson, Ph.D., spoke of the important role
conference was very stimulating and extremely affirming that Brewster
that creativity will play in the 21st century and how vital it is that schools
is absolutely on the right track with where it is headed in its efforts to provide the best possible education for its students, Hess commented.
LIVE LEARN LEAD www.brewsteracademy.org
11
Dr. Cooper, a Klingenstein Fellow
I
n mid-winter, Dr. Cooper packed his suitcase and laptop, said goodbye to his wife Andrea and their dog Tess, and left home for school. For two weeks he was a fellow at the Klingenstein Center
at Teachers College Columbia University. As far as we know, he had no BMPs, was always in dress code, and called home frequently. His classmates were a select group of 19 other heads of school from around the world who were chosen for the prestigious fellowship “that offers talented individuals the time and resources for renewal and reflection about their passion and their work in the company of equally committed peers.”
decisions. My research reinforced that giving adolescents the tools to help regulate their emotions can make a difference and thus the emotional literacy program in place at Brewster is an opportunity to introduce more skills and awareness so students can learn to take that split second to think about their decision, and the consequences, and hopefully make a different choice.
What did you like best? Upon his return to campus, Dr. Cooper reflected on his fellowship at Klingenstein’s Heads of Schools Program.
There was a component where we worked with master’s candidates enrolled in Columbia’s graduate program. Most of these students have worked at independent schools as teachers, dorm parents, and coaches
What attracted you to the Klingenstein Heads program?
and aspire to be heads of school.
In the independent education world the Klingenstein program has an
My cohort had developed case studies of challenges that have happened
excellent reputation. I was impressed with the opportunities it offered and had heard from past participants that it was an excellent experience. Also, being in my ninth year as head, I was looking forward to the professional renewal component. I have always been interested in learning and value lifelong learning. We certainly talk to our students about the importance of being lifelong learners so it was an opportunity to practice what I preach.
throughout our careers. This was a fairly comprehensive process to write these cases and then we sat with the graduate students through two fairly lengthy sessions and talked to them about the details of each and their outcomes. The process afforded the students to see the many facets to issues that heads confront and how decisions can go in many directions depending upon the school, its culture, and situation being considered. Working with them was one of the highlights. They were sponges, and they valued the time they had and exposure to working with heads
What was the program focus?
of schools. The setting was enlightening for them as they were able to
Each participant had to complete an individual research project on a
spend time with us and really see the nuances associated with a head’s
contemporary issue that we wanted to get more involved with. This
position and decisions that have to be made. They realized that there are
involved researching what literature has been written on the topic,
so many facets that go into decisions, whether it’s related to curriculum,
formulating a better understanding of the topic, and then presenting this
the budget, personnel, or even the dismissal of a student, and from my
understanding in a paper, followed by a presentation of findings to my
perspective it felt good ‘to impart this wisdom’ on the students.
peers. It was nice being fully immersed in school, as I had the time to fully concentrate on the assignment.
We also spent a session on governance with these students because the majority of them have little experience working with a board. We
In concert with Brewster’s emotional literacy program, I chose to focus
helped them to better understand what represents good governance at an
on the role that emotions play in decision making. We see the results
independent school. In the end, it is the intent of the Klingenstein Center
of students’ decisions and we ask ourselves ‘Why did they do that? …
to have these reflections published as seminal lessons.
They know the consequences.’ We know that the area of the brain that is responsible for decision making is not fully developed in adolescents, and
We had a number of sessions on technology and pedagogy and the
we also know that in adolescents risk taking goes up considerably in the
importance of leadership within this realm. In many respects most of the
presence of peers.
schools represented were well beyond the issues being discussed. Because of our independence, we have been able to get out ahead of what’s on the
Research indicates that intervention programs do make a difference in
horizon for secondary education. Certainly a good example of that is our
students’ choices, but we also know that imparting students with skills
early entry into being a laptop school and how that has helped to shape
and awareness won’t always prevent them from making some risky
our pedagogy through the Brewster Model.
12
BrewsterConnections – Spring 2012
I learned that Brewster is well positioned with what we do to incorporate technology into our education program, and we have a lot of resources
As a graduate of the Klingenstein Heads program is there anything that you will do differently now?
devoted to furthering the evolution of our technology integration and
Certainly some of the things we studied will have some impact … I think
staying on top among independent schools.
the influence will come over time. Having spent some time as part of my research project reading the literature around how emotions impact
What did you learn from your colleagues? We share a lot of similarities and at the same time a lot of differences. For everybody, though, enrollment and affordability are big issues and of course the economy’s impact on schools right now. We are also focused on curriculum and how we deliver it in the most
decision making, I hope to be able to gain a better understanding of how the implementation of the RULER Approach can be enhanced to assist us in more effectively providing our students with some valuable life skills associated with better management and regulation of their emotions.
affordable and efficient manner, while having it be responsive to the needs of today’s learners. My classmates are asking the same
I learned that it took me a little while to start thinking
Because of our independence, we have been able to get out
questions we are about curricular issues, such as: ‘What role should technology play in education?’ ‘What online opportunities
ahead of what’s on the horizon
are we looking at?’ We know that teaching is
for secondary education.
still a person-to-person enterprise. Elements
manner because education is still more than what we fill students with, it is a matter of how we form their minds.
acting and reacting and not taking the time to reflect. I need to make some time for reflection. I believe it has the potential to result in better decisions and outcomes. Additionally, I look forward to staying in contact with
of teaching are available online but a lot of teaching still comes down to the imparting of knowledge in a face-to-face
like a student again. As administrators we are always
classmates and having this group of individuals to share challenges, issues, and successes. We are all in similar roles with a common language and a common frame of reference no matter what kind of school we are in.
Faculty Invited to Present
A Skills-Based Approach to Educating the Whole Child for Today’s World at IECA Conference
H
ead of School Mike Cooper, Peter Hess, dean of studies; Lynne Palmer, director of admission and external affairs; and Robert O’Blenis, science teacher and community life parent have
been selected to present on Brewster’s 2020 Vision at the Independent Educational Consultants Association conference in Boston in May.
Much has been written about the skills and knowledge necessary for
students to be well prepared as new entrants into the world of college and the work place. The challenge for schools is in how to prepare students
for what they are about to encounter. Recognizing the importance of 21st century skills, Brewster has evolved its educational program to include
an emphasis on building skills and knowledge in this area. The Brewster faculty will present a workshop at which they will:
Share innovations in education and how these changes are and will impact
Share and discuss the complexities of introducing two new conceptual
for a family’s educational goals;
thinking about undertaking such an endeavor in their own settings; and
their clients as consultants assist them in selecting the appropriate school
frameworks into a school’s educational program and how to begin
Present research in support of both project-based learning and emotional
Help participants understand how technology has been woven into
the 21st century skill of their students;
skill set.
and social literacy skills as integrated ways in which schools can attend to
Brewster’s curricular changes being presented as part of the 21st century
www.brewsteracademy.org
13
My Greatest Brewster Moment In celebration of Brewster Academy’s 125th year, we asked alumni to send us their “Greatest Brewster Moment” and soon my inbox was overflowing with those quintessential moments. We couldn’t share them all but here we share many … “During my graduation ceremony in 1999, I looked around the campus
“I came to
I looked around the tent and knew that I was with a group of people that
accomplished
and was sad to leave such a beautiful place with so many memories. Then
Brewster as an
I would know forever and that there were many more memories to be
Western
made from that point on. And I was right.” Ramsey Cotherman ‘99
equestrian. I had started
“In 1961, there was a snow sculpture of Mount Rushmore with President
learning English
Jack Kennedy added. The artists were Jack Barbara ‘61 and John Coyne
at home a year
‘61. The remainder of the group piled snow and made the block of
before going
ice. It certainly was a work of art and a Great Moment in Brewster History.” Larry Benedini ‘61
“Skiing after school at Moose Mountain every day, which started a 26-year professional ski patrol career.” Peter Dulong ‘71.
who let me
me the confidence in jumping. At first I was a little nervous to jump,
old, I was living on South
me on while instructing me, my nervousness turned into freedom to jump
Brewster Campus. My
and jump any jump. When I ride today, I always think of Mr. Fahy.
I was six or seven years
especially the cross-country fences but with Mr. Fahy constantly cheering
Main Street opposite the
anything. By the time my senior year rolled around I would ride any horse
night on weekends to
listen to the GIs singing
as they returned to their
s
bers of the Clas
Elizabeth Palmer Traverso ‘93
I wanted to share with these families; I wanted them to see the gem of
out the Bearce Hall barn by Mr. Smith so that
horses could be boarded, the boys from Brown Hall came upon two
old iceboats from the 1950s. We restored
them and had a great
winter in 1973 sailing
BrewsterConnections – Spring 2012
but with help from teachers and peers I could excel at anything I tried.”
the Town Hall.” Carolyn
“After being told to clean
73.
confidence to excel. I learned not to hide behind fear and nervousness
“I recall my great moment while touring prospective families. While I
evening at the movies in
per, circa 19 boat and its skip
At Brewster I learned to be a student and a person who has faith and
dormitories after an
Haskins Roth ‘57
14
Richard Fahy,
“In 1946 and 1947, when
used to stay awake at
An ice
but it was Mr.
ride and show his horse, who gave
brother Dan ‘55 and I
ry thanks to mem Presidential histo of 1961.
to Brewster,
rso th Palmer Trave Fahy and Elizabe o. ot Coach Richard ph ok a 1991 yearbo ’93 (far right) in
on Wolfeboro Bay.”
Robbie Palazzo ‘74
knew how fortunate I was to attend BA, I realized that there was so much magnificence that was my school. I was so proud of our community.” Jenna (Marks) O’Donnell ‘99
“Capturing the first baseball Lakes Region championship for Brewster Academy in spring 2011. The fact that we never lost a game to an
opponent in our league was amazing. It was a great experience and a great way to finish my Brewster experience!” Spencer Montgomery ‘11
“Every day. Life was a ball. And checking out the new PG football players at the beginning of each school year!“ Monie (Stevens) Zarinsky ‘54
“Every moment spent with Burt Vaughan … four years of Latin because of Burt Vaughan … four years of Glee Club because of Burt Vaughan.” Ken Mitchell ‘59
“Winning the 1977 Lakes Region basketball championship.” Derek Murphy ‘77
“Brewster gave me so many fond memories and has had such a positive impact on my life. … The International Club built an amazing Budda snow sculpture for Winter Carnival in 1996 (designed by Kentaro Seagal ‘95) … Topher Grace’s ’97 Performance in Fiddler On The Roof … Mr. Zip, the most entertaining math teacher ever! Plus, he had awesome sports coats!” Caitlin Kirk ‘96
“Standing in my dorm room, up over Mal Murray’s kitchen, looking out those old oversized windows across The Lake (Wolfeboro Bay) in the winter and seeing Gunstock in the distance. A chance for peaceful contemplation.” Gene Fox ‘67
“Leaving all-school meeting and finding my freshly painted VW Beetle on the top step of the Academic Building, blocking the front doors. Dean Esty ordered that it be removed immediately!” Stephen Smith ‘84
“Going to NYC senior year and singing at Carnegie Hall, and meeting someone at freshman orientation who would become one of my best friends!” Allie Duffy ‘08.
“Although I am an alum from the class of 1978, I would have to say my greatest moment at Brewster was the class of 2010 graduation when I got to watch my daughter Katie give the salutatorian address to the Brewster community. However, I am just as proud of how well my youngest daughter Ashley ‘15 is doing at Brewster now.” Jon Samuelson ‘78
“Time spent with coach Seth Ahlborn and the crew team; traveling to meets and an adventuresome trip to Connecticut to get one of the Vespoli shells repaired.” Reagan Jobe ‘01
“At a once traditional, light-hearted initiation ceremony for the freshman class, because my last name was Weeks – and there was a Ms. Weeks [no relation] from the Wakefield/Sanbornville area – the leader called us both to the podium and handed a toothbrush to each of us. He directed us to sweep clean the stage with the brush. I recall having a great vantage point to watch the rest of the ceremony from floor level!” Barry Weeks ‘72
“Ice fishing with Charlie Meier ’91 on the lake one long, cold day – and we never even got a bite.” Laurence Seiterle ‘91
“Senior year. The girls from Brown Hall won a competition, and we got to enjoy a
“Rock climbing at Devil’s Den and at Cathedral Ledge in North Conway with coach Mal Blodget.” Keith McGovern ‘78.
“Playing on three consecutive Lakes Region undefeated championship
hot tub party.” Julia
soccer teams – 1960, 1961, 1962.” Skip Dale ‘62, PG ‘63
Gordon ‘05
“Hugging Trey (Whitfield) ‘89 on the court after winning the 1988 New
“My second year at BA when I met
England Basketball Championship.“ Mike Clark ‘89
“Soccer and softball practices with Mr. Esty and Mr. Cook every fall and spring, when they made us laugh harder than we practiced. Sitting on the ground to stretch, Mr. Cook would bellow ‘meat hooks,’ our cue to grab onto our feet and stretch until laughter had us rolling around on the field!“ Beth Hayes ‘81
“… The simple act of walking across campus from the old gym to Sargent Hall after basketball practice during the fall. Looking at the beauty of the sunset during peak foliage from the top of the hill captivated me daily. I still find myself thinking and talking about those sunsets. Those memories serve as a source of serenity and inspiration for me. I think the fact that such a scene would even be noticed by a high school male only speaks to how beautiful it really was for me.” Tony Bryant ‘83
“Making a basket in the New Hampton game. We beat them 94-74 on their home court.” Jon Skrzyszowski ‘65
“Mr. Lui’s class and his some times inappropriate jokes.” Jack Pilon ‘11
ed to this 1965
i ’65 contribut Jon Skrzyszowsk
victory.
“Seeing snow for the first time in my life!”
Candace Crawshaw ‘64
“Marching in Concord with Mr. Radley in support of New Hampshire recognizing Civil Rights Day.” Bruce Hawkins ‘01
Erin Quirk ‘09, her first year at BA. I
and ’05 (left front) saw her and Anna dy: Julia Gordon t. en om This is not Ac stu m b tu t ho t ea gr a y jo Parker ’09 walking dorm mates en around campus and they told me they were bored and I told them to go and find something fun to do, to run around on campus, and they started laughing. After that we became really good friends and later Erin became my sister. I will never forget that day for the rest of my life.” Emmanuel Negudu ‘08
“I have fantastic memories of such simple things as going into town to get a sub or buy comic books. I had the opportunity to play Rugby. I did stand up comedy for the first time at Brewster. However, rden ’90 on ion 2010: Rob Go un Re at 0, d ’9 ite rry I think my fondest un Re ris Ba mates (l to r) Ch 0. ’9 s vocals and band bb Gi memory is not hn n ’89, and Jo Temple Peterso what happened when I was there but 20 years later. My 20th reunion was amazing! It was a weekend that I will hold with me for the rest of my life. Not only did I have a glorious time with my 1990 classmates, but I reunited with my high school rock band, S.O.M. When we played together, it was like we never left each other. I had an absolutely magical time, which ended with bonding by the lake and late night brisket.” Rob Gorden ‘90
“My great moment was four years long.” Jean (Douglas) Orr ‘54.
www.brewsteracademy.org
15
Living the Dream, Brendan Quirk ’12 (Portsmouth, New Hampshire)
Go! Study in This Window, Yung Ching Yang ’14 (Kaohsiung City, Taiwan)
Untitled, Preye Okara ‘12 (Canton, Massachusetts)
In Between, Jaruwan Amtawong ‘12 (Nakhonpathom, Thailand)
Reaching for the Light, Yoshiaki Tomita ‘14 (Kanagawa, Japan)
16
BrewsterConnections – Spring 2012
Untitled, Makenzie Moon ’14 (New York, New York) Juliet Hadley’s ’15 (Tuftonboro, New Hampshire) Backbone was juried into the Friends of the Arts show at the Silver Center for the Arts at Plymouth State University. The artist explained her work: “This art piece was made to be a 19” vase but it never fully reached 19”. During the processes of making it, it caved in to form a more humanly figure. I like more of the organic look and shapes and added earth tone colors. It was made of coils that were later smoothed out.”
After School, Ruby Lin ’12 (Taipei City, Taiwan)
Karma, Bella Monzione ’15 (Alton, New Hampshire)
Hiroshi Tanaka’s ’12 (Aichi, Japan) Love Story earned the “Award for Excellence in Sculpture” at the Friends of the Arts show at the Silver Center for the Arts at Plymouth State University.
Follow the Light, Addie Simmons ’12 (Wolfeboro) www.brewsteracademy.org
17
Staying Connected
W
hether you are an alumnus/a parent, or a friend of Brewster, we have many ways to keep you connected,
the latest of which is a mobile version of
Brewster’s Champion Trees
B
rewster Academy was recently recognized
www.brewsteracademy.org. Clicking on the icons and text headers (displayed in the graphic), will give you instant access to news and updates.
for being the stewards of two Champion Big Trees: a white oak (pictured below)
and a black locust. Both are the largest reported
Mobile Site
specimens of their species growing in Carroll
www.brewsteracademy.org
County.
twitter.com/BA_DocCoops
facebook.com/BrewsterAdmissions
twitter.com/BrewsterHoops
facebook.com/BrewsterAcademyAlumni
twitter.com/BrewsterKitchen
facebook.com/BrewsterBasketball
The white oak, located in front of Sargent Hall, stands 69 feet tall, is 175 inches in circumference, and has an average crown spread of 101 feet. The black locust, located near Memorial Field across from Brown Hall, is 72 feet tall and
YouTube
measures 126 inches in circumference with an
The Bobcat Channel: youtube.com/user/BrewsterBobcat
average crown spread of 43 feet.
Brewster Commended by NEASC
I
n November the Commission on Independent Schools of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) commended Brewster on the school’s five-year interim evaluation report.
The Academy last went through its re-accreditation and self-study process in 2006, as required by the NEASC of independent schools every 10 years. In that review, the accrediting board recommended specific areas in which Brewster could improve. “The list of ways Brewster has improved is laudable,” said William M. Bennett, director of
the commission, in a letter to Head of School Dr. Michael E. Cooper. “The school has taken specific steps to deepen and broaden its development efforts, to initiate ways faculty can be part of the policy-setting process, to establish exciting directions in the curriculum, and to open communication among many areas of school life.” During its re-accreditation process in 2006, the visiting committee members voted unanimously in the affirmative on 67 of 77 standards necessary for accreditation. Of the 10 standards that did not receive a unanimous affirmative response, each one received between five and seven affirmative responses; overall, an excellent “grade” report. It was the improvements in these areas to which Bennett referred in his letter. “The Commission feels Brewster is poised to become an even stronger school going forward. The Commission commends the school on its work of the last three years as well as the report itself,” Bennett added. Brewster has received continued accreditation since its initial membership with the NEASC in 1933. The NEASC is the regional accrediting body, providing accreditation services for more than 2,000 public and private institutions for programs from pre-kindergarten through the doctoral level.
18
BrewsterConnections – Spring 2012
The New Hampshire Big Tree Program is an outreach of the University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension. The purpose of the New Hampshire Big Tree Program is to locate the most outstanding examples of the various tree species that grow in New Hampshire, to obtain the cooperation of the tree owners to protect and preserve specimens as landmarks for future generations to enjoy, and to stimulate interest in and greater appreciation for trees as a natural resource. Next time you are on campus, take time to stop and admire these champions.
Live on the Brewster Bobcats
The top-ranked prep school team in the country draws live coverage this season
B
rewster’s 14th win of the season was like no other for the Brewster
boys’ varsity basketball team. The victory didn’t come in the Smith Center, and they didn’t earn it on their opponent’s court.
They held on to their number one ranking against another top-five nationally-ranked team at the Spalding Hoophall Classic, which was televised nationally on ESPN. Although 350,000 basketball fans viewed the game from around the country, the support from the Brewster community at the game was the difference maker, said head coach Jason Smith. With alumni and a busload of students and faculty in the stands, the Bobcats defeated Tilton School 57-53. “The Hoophall Classic is the premier high school basketball event, and Brewster was very fortunate to be included this year, since only the
The top-ranked prep school basketball team in the country: the Brewster Bobcats
top programs are invited annually,” Smith said. “For our game to be selected to be aired on ESPN was a tremendous honor. It was a wonderful opportunity for our team, as well as the entire Brewster community who provided outstanding support! We are excited about being invited again to next year’s Hoophall.”
Game Highlights Florida State- signee Aaron Thomas (Cincinnati) had a game-high 23 points, while North Carolina State-bound TJ Warren (Raleigh, North Carolina) added 14 points. Unsigned forward JaKarr Sampson (Barberton, Ohio) added 13 points and 5 rebounds, while Michigan-signee Mitch McGary (Chesterton, Indiana) had game-high 12 rebounds. Unsigned guard Joe Bramanti (Andover, Massachusetts) played yet another outstanding game on the defensive end of the floor for the Bobcats.
Pre-game Reception
Former Bobcat Mike Clark ‘89, sporting his 1987-1888 Lakes Region League Champions basketball jacket, brought son Nate to the Hoophall Classic.
Nearly 50 alumni, parents, faculty, and friends gathered for a pre-game reception on the Springfield College campus anticipating the Hoophall Classic matchup. Representation covered the span of classes from 1954, 1958, 1965, 1978, 1989 through 2011. Several alumni from the Springfield area reconnected with classmates and learned more about what’s happening on the Brewster campus, including the ongoing celebration of our 125th anniversary. Following the reception, the group joined the spirited busload of Brewster students in the Blake Arena – all showing their Bobcat pride on the ESPN-televised event. Fans were not disappointed by the high level of competition and ultimate victory for Brewster! Go Bobcats!
Lester Kligerman ’65, Ralph Lockwood ’65, Carolyn and Peter Dulong ’71, Margaret and Bob Schwarz ’65, and Jon Skrzyszowski ’65 enjoy the pre-game reception.
www.brewsteracademy.org
19
Newsmakers Artists’ Work Selected for Exhibition
Writing Awards by New Hampshire students. It
McDonald’s All American
was selected by a panel of writers, teachers, and
Brewster forward T.J.
Hiroshi Tanaka ’12 (Aichi,
literary professionals as the best work submitted
Warren ‘12 (Raleigh,
Japan) and Juliet Hadley
by New Hampshire teenagers. The collection will
North Carolina) was
’15 (Tuftonboro, New
be published in the 2012 edition of Middle/High
selected to participate
Hampshire) had artwork
School Voices, and she has been invited to attend the
in the McDonald’s All
selected to exhibit at the
Middle High School Voices conference and the New
American Game on March
Friends of the Arts show
Hampshire regional awards ceremony in May.
28 at the United Center in
at the Silver Center for the Arts at Plymouth State University. Hiroshi
Chicago to be televised live on ESPN. Warren signed
Bobcat Skaters Play for Canada
in the fall with North Carolina State University. In the past 10 years, about 80 Brewster players have
also won the “Award for
been nominated as McDonald’s All Americans but TJ
Excellence in Sculpture”
is the first Brewster player to be selected to play in
for his “Love Story”
the premier high school boys’ all-star game.
sculpture. His other
Bobcat Goalkeeper Globe All Star
piece that will display is his textile work “Denim Bag.” Juliet’s 19” ceramic “Backbone” was also selected to exhibit (see page 17
Danielle Tidd ’13 (Alton
for artwork photos)
Bay, New Hampshire),
goalkeeper for the girls’
In total 117 pieces of art were submitted from
varsity soccer team was
12 schools; 59 were selected for the show and 18
selected as a Boston
received awards.
Juniors Catherine LeBoeuf (Dieppe, New Brunswick),
Moon’s Writing Earns Honors Makenzie Moon ‘14 (New York, New York) was recently recognized by the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers and the National Writing Project in New Hampshire through The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards.
on right, and Laurence Porlier (Maria, Quebec), on left, represented their provinces at the National Women’s U18 Championship in Saguenay, Quebec, in November. Laurence, a forward, played for Team Québec, which won the silver medal. Catherine, who plays defense, played for Team Atlantic, which lost the bronze medal game to Team Manitoba. “The Championship was one of the best athletic competitions I’ve had the opportunity to
Her collection of poems – “My Dear Child,” “13 Ways
experience. I got to play against and with some of
of Looking at the Moon,” and “An Artist’s Lover” –
the best female U18 players in Canada. It can’t get
was among 300 submissions sent to the Scholastic
any cooler than that,” LeBoeuf said.
20
BrewsterConnections – Spring 2012
Globe NEPSAC All Star. She was one of 19 players selected from more than 100 schools in the NEPSAC league.
Field Hockey Seniors Named to All-Tournament Team
Seniors Hanna Skelley (Wolfeboro) and Amy
(NSCAA). Coach Butcher
and Imagination in Contemporary American Art.” The
Misera (Cockeysville, Maryland) were named to the
led the Bobcats through
show runs through July 15. A little closer to home,
New England Preparatory School Athletic Council
a dramatic 2011 season
Broom also has work on exhibit as part of a two-
(NEPSAC) Class C Field Hockey All-Tournament
ending with a 16-2-1
person show at the Tria Gallery in Chelsea (NYC)
Team. The midfielders were two of the team’s four
overall record.
through April 15.
captains and also are the captains of the varsity lacrosse team. “We are a dynamic duo on the field,”
He has served as head
Misera commented.
coach of the girls’ varsity soccer program since 2002. During this time, the
“The Florence exhibit feels like a dream to me. I remember going to that Museum when I studied in Italy back in 2003. The title of the exhibit (American
Misera, a two-year member of the team, plans to
team has earned three New England championships
play field hockey at Worcester Polytechnic Institute.
(2009, 2007, and 2004); one co-championship
This season she was awarded Most Valuable Player
(2002); eight invites to the New England playoffs;
for the Bobcat squad. Skelley is a three-year member
and six Lakes Region titles. His overall coaching
Broom is also working on a children’s book and
of the team. She plans to play ice hockey in college.
record at Brewster is 133-25-10.
an event based around food, photography, and
Dreamers) is perfectly fitting,” Broom said.
storytelling to showcase at the Chelsea Market later The Brewster players were among 15 girls selected
Butcher was honored in mid-January at the annual
this year. Visit www.adrienbroom.com to learn about
to the All-Tournament Team. Currently 31 teams
NSCAA convention in Kansas City.
Broom’s work.
Douglass on NPR’s Morning Edition
ESPN Profiles Thomas Robinson
Varsity field hockey
In late 2011, pianist and guitarist Gregory Douglass
In January, ESPN released a video on University of
players Lottie Barton
’98 was interviewed on a segment of National Public
Kansas forward Thomas Robinson ’09. “Family Over
‘12 (Kenai, Alaska), Allie
Radio’s Morning Edition. The year-end segment
Everything” profiles Robinson and his dedication
Hughes ‘12 (La Canada,
looked at music it missed over the past 12 months.
to basketball and his younger sister one year after
Califorina), and Goldie
Host Linda Wertheimer interviewed Douglass, who
Paul ’12 (Hampstead,
discussed his latest album Lucid and the ups and
New Hampshire) earned
downs of working as an independent artist. Visit
the honor of the 2011
www.gregorydouglass.com to learn more about
Gladiator by SGI/National
Douglass.
comprise NEPSAC’s Class C division.
Field Hockey Players Named Gladiators
Field Hockey Coaches Association High School Academic Squad. The National Academic Squad
losing his grandmother, grandfather, and mother in a span of 25 days. The video includes footage from Brewster and is available at www.espn.com.
Morgan Huntley’s ‘00 company Vanquish Boats
Broom’s Work on Exhibit in Florence, Chelsea
was the featured cover story in the October issue of Soundings magazine. In the article, Huntley talks about his passion for boatbuilding, his designs, and
program recognizes
his vision for the company he founded in 2010.
those high school seniors
Visit www.vanquishboats.com to learn more about
who have achieved a
Huntley’s boats.
cumulative, unweighted GPA of 3.5 out of 4.0 or the equivalent through
Jordan Weaver ’11, a freshman at Syracuse
the first quarter of the
University, is the communications director for
2011-2012 school year.
Students for Solvency. This national non-profit
Butcher Named Coach of the Year
The work of photographer Adrien Broom ’98 is on
the national debt and advocates for fiscal reforms
Girls’ varsity soccer coach Matt Butcher was named
exhibit at the Center for Contemporary Culture at
necessary for the long-term health of the United
Regional Prep School Coach of the Year by the
Palazzo Strozzi in Florence, Italy. Her photography is
States. Weaver, former editor of the Brewster
National Soccer Coaches Association of America
part of the exhibition: “American Dreamers. Reality
Browser, is studying journalism at Syracuse.
organization educates young voters on the threat of
www.brewsteracademy.org
21
Trey Whitfield ’89 Memorial Celebration The Year’s “Best All School” By Beth Hayes ‘81
H
ead of School Mike Cooper opened the annual Trey Whitfield
together on and off the basketball court. He talked of his “dynamic,
Memorial Celebration with a warm welcome to Brewster’s
charismatic, and charming” friend who had an amazing ability to relate to
“extended family” from the Trey Whitfield School in Brooklyn,
everyone on Brewster’s campus. “I loved Trey, and I miss him, but I’m so
New York. Trey’s parent’s, AB Whitfield and Janie Whitney, brought
glad the world is a better place because he was here.”
friends, faculty members, and the Trey Whitfield School Choir to this celebration of Trey’s life. Cooper described today as the year’s “best All
True to form, the choir gave a heartwarming and energizing performance,
School.”
bringing our students to their feet and in some cases, up onto the stage.
Cooper remarked, “Every year I walk away from this event with a
Whitney spoke at the conclusion of the event and left our captivated
renewed sense of purpose and direction.” With a nod to Brewster’s
students with this thought, “At Brewster nothing is more important than
inclusion of emotional intelligence, Cooper noted that he was in a pretty
the relationships you form; take those with you in life.”
good place on the mood meter when he reflects upon this event. Following the All School, former Brewster Dean Joyce Ferris thoughtfully Guest speaker Steve Promislo ’88 brought tears to more than a few eyes
commented, “We know when our moments in life are good ones. We need
when he recalled memories of his friendship with Trey and their time
to remember, however, to look back and cherish those moments.”
22
BrewsterConnections – Spring 2012
A Night With the Stars A Red Carpet Evening Supports Brewster’s Annual Fund By Kristy Kerin
R
esplendent with a red carpet, gold starred walls, celebrity teachers, a martini bar, and fabulous donations displayed
throughout – this was last fall’s auction fashioned after the
Academy Awards to raise funds for Brewster’s Annual Fund.
Cooking With a Purpose For the past 13 years, Brewster parents Don and Bev Clements (Jessica ’02, Jennifer ’07) have opened their Crescent Lake home to a group of
Brewster students for a Thanksgiving-style dinner. “Winter Feast” has become one of the most sought after items at Brewster’s fall auction.
The concept is simple: The Clements offer a home-cooked turkey dinner, with all the fixins’, for one lucky student – and his or her entire dorm! A
bidding war ensues at the live auction and a generous family purchases the
dinner for their child’s dorm. The proceeds benefit Brewster’s Annual Fund. Don is famous for his stuffing and potatoes; Bev is a gourmet baker,
and no student leaves without a goody bag of cookies and bars to enjoy later. The feast is served family style around a large table on Bev’s grandmother’s china, and Jessica and Jennifer join the fun.
This year, the item was so popular, the Clements kindly allowed Brewster
By the Numbers 250
people attended “A Night With the Stars”
$105,000
total raised at the 2011 auction proceeds benefit the Annual Fund
159
number of items donated to the live and silent auctions
75
martini glasses purchased for the iPad raffle
$50,000
raised by the Winter Feast over the past 13 years
23
By the Numbers plus volunteers who made the evening a success
to double the offer. Over the past 13 years, the Winter Feast has raised more than $50,000 for Brewster Academy!
Food for Thought For anyone who has raised teenagers, it should be no surprise that auction items involving food are extremely popular. Another premier item at
this year’s auction was donated by Brewster’s athletic Equipment Room Manager Angelo “G-Lo” Varrone. G-Lo’s Italian feast for 10, with many
recipes derived from his Italian-born mother, was the top bid of the night, selling for an impressive $11,500 – times two!
Homemade Touch Brewster’s faculty and staff support the auction in a variety of ways,
including homemade contributions such as jams, gift baskets, and cookies. This year, a group of faculty and staff knitted a one-of-a-kind afghan that
G-Lo’s Italian Dinner was the high bid at the auction.
kicked off the live auction.
Exotic Escapes Africa; Bermuda; Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; Park City, Utah;
Summerland Key, Florida; Topsail Island, North Carolina. A wide variety of travel options were up for bid at this year’s auction thanks to the generosity of our Brewster families.
So much more! All told, this year’s auction featured 159 items and raised more than
$105,000 for the Annual Fund. Brewster is grateful to the many donors
and volunteers who make this auction an annual success. Special thanks
go to auction co-chairs, Josephine Grayson (Bradley ’14), Darla Monzione (Bella ’15), and Raquel Rogers (Ashley ’13) and auctioneer Bill Zafirson (Blake ’11).
Makers of the afghan: Maya Pettit-Scott, Linda Larson, Ellissa Popoff, Allie Cooper, Andrea Cooper, Raylene Davis, Jan Kaskiewicz, Kate Turner, and Robin Found.
www.brewsteracademy.org
23
Brewster On The
Road
Europe October 2011 – The Class of 1954 has been at it
Following the Rhine, Mein, and Danube Rivers,
again! Brewster classmates and friends, spouses, and
the cruise began in Holland and traveled through
guests, shipped out for a 15-day Grand European
Germany, Austria, Slovakia, and ended in Hungary.
Tour with Viking River Cruises this past October.
“The sites and sounds, and the people and places
Alumni on the trip included David Carlson ’54,
were amazing, to say nothing of the cuisine,” Hayes
Jean (Douglas) Orr ’54, Larry Thurrell ’54, husband
reported. “The most unforgettable part of the journey,
and wife Stuart Stinchfield ’54 and Jean (Clough)
however, was how much this group of alumni and
Stinchfield ’59, Bob Harrington ’53, and Jack
friends enjoyed taking this journey together. “
Reever ’60. Joining the group from Brewster’s Alumni To read a daily blog of the group’s adventures go to
Office was Beth Hayes ’81.
http://www.brewsteracademy.org/Class-of-1954.
Globetrotting Bobcats tour Melk, Austria, on the Grand European Tour.
Boston October 2011 – Faculty, alumni, and parents
Martha Trepanier ‘83 and Kate Turner, associate
gathered on the banks of the Charles River to cheer
athletic director, took photos and caught up
for Brewster’s varsity 1 boat in the 47 Head of the
with a few alumni, including former rower David
Charles Regatta. Overall the Bobcats finished 45 out
Neiman ’11 and Abi Putnam ‘00. Bob and Maureen
of 77 boats in 18:33.73 for the three-mile race.
Simoneau, whose son James ’07 rowed for Brewster,
Brewster has been a mainstay at this competition
cheered rowers from the finish line. “We are so
over the past few years and is considered to be
fortunate to be able to be a part of this,” noted Matt
among the elite throughout the region. “This is a
Lawlor, director of athletics. “To have these alums
huge event for us,” said head coach Nick Docter ‘97.
and faculty make the trip to this race is great; Bobcat
“The kids look forward to this race all year and it is
Nation is very much alive today!”
th
just so exciting to be part of an event this big on a national level.”
Texas January 2012 – Martha Trepanier ’83 visited with Texan Bobcats including Laurence Seiterle ’90, Bob Bishop ’47, Reagan Jobe ’01, Jack Pilon ’11, and Mitch Wolfe ’00. Wolfe is partnering with the Alumni and Development Office to coordinate a Dallas Brewster alumni chapter. Watch for an invitation to an upcoming Dallas event! Seiterle, a commercial real estate developer, will visit campus this spring to speak with the Brewster Business Club Maria-Dulce Smith (far left) and Walter Smith (Sarah ’05, Max ’12) hosted a gathering at their Ras Tanura home for current and prospective families.
about his entrepreneurial ventures and watch a boys’ lacrosse game.
Saudi Arabia October-November 2011 – Admission officer Jay
Currently, five students whose parents work in Saudi
Anctil travelled to Saudi Arabia in October to attend
Arabia attend Brewster. Their families – the Smiths,
the Saudi Aramco Schools Fair. His trip included
Fords, Turners, Johnsons and Gardiolas – held two
attending a school fair at the Dhahran Middle
Brewster receptions, providing an opportunity for
School where he had the opportunity to talk about
prospective families to inquire about Brewster with
the Brewster program with Aramco families and
Jay and current families.
interview prospective students. Within the Aramco company, there are four different school regions:
The Admission Office sends a big thank you to
Dhahran, Ras Tanura, Abqaiq, and Udhailiyah, each of
these families for hosting the receptions and for
which had students interested in Brewster.
promoting Brewster in Saudi Arabia.
Martha Trepanier ’83 and Laurence Seiterle ‘90 in San Antonio.
November 2011 – For the past three years, Jim Bastis,
Jim’s next stop was Shanghai where he visited with
January 24, 2012 – New York City area alumni and
director of alumni and development, has travelled to
the parents of students from this region on the East
friends gathered at Connolly’s Pub and Restaurant
Asia to visit parents and alumni. This past November
China Sea. He then took a bullet train west to visit
on 47th Street for a fun evening of catching up and
he made the trip again, this time to Korea and China.
with families from the Hangzhou region.
reminiscing. Thank you to Bri Gatta ‘05 for her help
Asia
New York City
In Seoul, the Korean Parents’ Association hosted a
in organizing the evening. Keep an eye out for the
dinner for his visit. Beau Jackson ’87, an English
Hong Kong and nearby Shenzhen were next where
teacher in Seoul, joined them for dinner.
he met with both parents and alumni. In Hong Kong
next NYC area gathering and join us!
Mark Wong ’92, Howard Kwong ’99, and Lauren Lok ’99 joined Jim for dinner. The China visit concluded with a trip to Beijing for a final get-together with Beijing parents. Brewster currently has 34 Jim Bastis, Beau Jackson ’87, and the Brewster Bobcat enjoyed a dinner hosted by the Korean Parents’ Association.
students from Korea and China.
Kori Gatta ’03, Danah Gordon ’04, Jasmine Hamlor ’04, Bri Gatta ’05, and Kat Knarr ’05 catch up at a New York City alumni reception.
www.brewsteracademy.org
25
By Kristy Kerin
T
Ronn Bronzetti ’92 and Stephanie O’Connor Leahey ’92
his year Brewster celebrates its 125th
anniversary and one group of alumni
and parents hopes to commemorate this
milestone in a special way. Armed with the belief
that a school is only as strong as the commitment of its alumni, they have joined together to sponsor a
generous challenge. They are calling it the Strength
are co-chairing their 20th Reunion Committee and they
are two of the Strength in Numbers Challenge sponsors.
“I consider myself fortunate to have attended Brewster
and I feel compelled to give back so that other students
might enjoy the same type of educational opportunities
that I did,” Bronzetti shared. “More than a fundraising
effort, the Strength in Numbers Challenge is really about
in Numbers Challenge and the goal is simple: to
people. It is about honoring the teachers and coaches who
Annual Fund.
the kind of impact that we can make as alumni to ensure
increase alumni participation in Brewster’s
This year, if at least 600 alumni make a gift to Brewster, a group of challenge donors will give Brewster $100,000. Simple, right? According to Annual Fund Director Beth Hayes ’81, “It is simple! To
supported us while we were at Brewster, and it is about that Brewster Academy’s best days lie ahead.”
Leahey adds, “As a parent, I often reflect on turning
points in my life. Attending BA was a key decision that changed the trajectory of my life. I am so grateful for
the opportunity I had to attend a school with a safe and nurturing environment that allowed me to be a better version of myself. I feel I owe it to give back. “
count for the challenge, alumni simply
Gifts to Brewster’s Annual Fund support every
have to make a gift to Brewster of any
aspect of the school. Alumni contributions help
size, to any area of their choosing. Last
year, 8 percent of alumni made a gift to
Brewster support financial aid for deserving
Brewster. These challenge donors believe we can do better, and they have
students, attract and retain top faculty, offer a competitive athletics
participation really matters.”
environment. Donors may choose to direct their gifts to a specific area or
offered this generous challenge to help us spread the word that alumni
“We know that Brewster alumni love their school,” said Martha Trepanier ’83, associate director of development. “We know this by talking with
program, maintain its idyllic campus, and create a top-notch learning
program of their choosing, and they may make gifts in honor of a favorite faculty member, mentor, or coach.
alumni and hearing their stories. Brewster has made a significant impact
Dan Mudge, chair of the board of trustees and Brewster parent (Tapley-
as alumni to say thank you. Alumni giving is vital.”
“I want to give back, so that deserving young students, who otherwise
on so many alumni across the decades, and it is time for us to join together
Alumni giving is particularly vital for a school like Brewster with a limited endowment and the significant operational costs of a boarding school. Brewster’s endowment per student is only a fraction of that of its peer
schools, yet Brewster stretches its resources to offer competitive financial aid, attract top-notch faculty, and maintain its stunning campus.
“Education is fundamentally a people business,” said Lisa Braiterman, chief financial officer. “Sixty percent of our total budget is directed to
people – financial aid for talented students and personnel costs. Very little
of that funding comes from endowment, so we must look for other sources of support.”
26
Ann ’98 and Ashley ’02) shared his reasons for supporting the challenge: might not have the chance, now will have an opportunity to build a solid
foundation for their future. Seeing young Brewster graduates succeed is a
rewarding feeling. Brewster needs alumni support to continue its mission. Every gift will help make a difference.”
Alumni have until June 30 to make a gift to support the Strength in Numbers Challenge.
Brewster thanks its challenge donors: David Carlson ’54, Tony Leitner ’61, Candace Crawshaw ’64, David Hunter ’90, Mitch Wolff ’90, Ronn Bronzetti ’92, Stephanie O’Connor Leahey ’92, and Dan and Kathy Mudge P’98, ’02.
www.brewsteracademy.org/giving BrewsterConnections – Spring 2012
Return to Campus
Reunion 2012 June 1-3 Friday, June 1 25th and 50th Reunion Class Dinners Class Gatherings, organized by individual classes, check www.brewsteracademy.org/reunion2012
for information Late Night Snacks at Estabrook
Saturday, June 2 Kayaks, Canoes, Sailboats All-School Assembly Alumni Cruise on Lake Winnipesaukee Lunch in the Estabrook Tennis Round Robin Lobster Bake Under the Tent Overlooking the Lake Music and Dancing at Pinckney Boathouse NEW Bonfire Dorm rooms available Friday and Saturday nights
Sunday, June 3 Brunch at Pinckney Boathouse
Family-Friendly Weekend! Children under 12 eat and sleep for free on campus Babysitting information available by request www.brewsteracademy.org
27
HOOPLA by Matt Hoopes
The Quarter-Century Club Nine faculty and staff members reflect on 25-plus years of living, learning, and leading in the Brewster community.
I
n his introduction to the Academy’s 1975 catalog,
As Brewster celebrates the 125th anniversary of
then headmaster David Smith wrote that the
John Brewster’s endowment of the Academy, we
“strength of Brewster Academy is its faculty.” I had
pay tribute to faculty and staff members who have
just arrived on campus and was very taken by that
contributed their talents for at least one fifth of that
statement. The publication continued by devoting
time span. Their recollections offer reminders of how
a full page, containing a portrait photograph and a
much the school has grown and changed over the
detailed resume, of each faculty member – all 15 at
past quarter-century. They also point out, modestly,
that time. At the time many boarding schools were
each in his or her way, how they helped make the
judged by the loyalty and longevity of their faculty
school what it is today.
and staff. Alumni often returned to a school primarily to seek out a former teacher, introduce their spouse, and playfully warn them that their son or daughter would soon be arriving to disrupt their classroom.
Matt Hoopes was a faculty member from 1975 to 1996. During this time he and his journalism students founded The Brewster Browser and the Outcroppings literary magazine. Since his “retirement” from the classroom in 1996, Hoopes has worked as the alumni correspondent from his hilltop banana farm on the island of Eleuthera, The Bahamas, helping to keep the alumni connection alive. In each issue he brings life-after-Brewster stories to the pages of his Hoopla column.
Do you have your copy of The Brewster Story: A Definitive History of Brewster Academy by Robert and Shirley Richardson? Order online: www.brewsteracademy.org/thebrewsterstory
28
BrewsterConnections – Spring 2012
HOOPLA TJ Palmer, Bobcat Since 1987 History Teacher, Coach
T.J. Palmer came to Brewster from a junior boarding school (The Rectory School) where he had one weekend off a month. “I was surprised at how much time off I had at Brewster. Rectory scheduled every minute of the day whereas Brewster didn’t, but then the days began filling with non-scheduled times: more extra help, longer athletic practice times, and teaching at the high school level meant more class prep time. The first fall ... three course preps, soccer (with an assistant who didn’t have cleats), and a dorm parent in Sargent Hall meant a very busy schedule, especially for a newlywed!”
In what ways do you feel the Brewster Model improved the school and your work? The foundation of the Model fit my view of teaching from the very beginning. I hated to lecture. I always wanted students actively engaged. Cabinet meetings, debates, and court trials where students are active is fun and exciting for the students and me. I love the competitive nature of these activities. I had to get used to the massive preparation required outside of class, but I really enjoy when the students both learn a lot and enjoy learning. The Model greatly improved the school as the teaching faculty became more professional in their thought as to what they were teaching and why they were teaching it. In coaching the same principals of the classroom fit the rink or the playing field. As a coach you review the previous game, consider the areas of weakness that we want to work on, and then set up drills that effectively work on those weaknesses. And, you can never forget the fun element. Input from the players is always important, and that same input comes from the students in the academic setting with the Model. In my view there no longer is a Model – it is just Brewster!
What do you consider to be your greatest contribution to the school? One contribution has been bringing varsity hockey back to Brewster from a long hiatus after Pop Whalen (Brewster’s legendary athletic director) left. Pop built some great teams back in the 1960s, but times had changed and there were doubts whether a respected team could be formed at Brewster, especially given the hockey facilities offered by our competitors. Now we have earned the respect of the Lakes Region teams and other top programs in New England and play them every season – schools including Phillips Exeter, Phillips Andover, and Cushing, to name a few. Recently we beat South Kent (twice), one of the top 10 New England teams this year.
A 25-year faculty member by the numbers 1,260 150 54 48 34 18 7 2 3 0
hockey practices weekend duty assignments hockey pre-game meals at the Palmer’s coaching seasons of soccer, hockey, baseball, and softball “Varsity III” soccer coaching victories years as a hockey coach Faculty “loaner” computers Yearbook dedications days my wife spent in Wolfeboro not employed by Brewster Academy teachers who have been at Brewster longer than me
Another contribution was running the first Model dormitory and being a Team
him during that work, and I believe he learned a lot from me about the reality
Leader when the Model was first implemented in the early 1990s. I worked
of teaching and dorm parenting in the ‘trenches’ every day. As a result of our
closely with Dr. Alan Bain, former associate headmaster and architect of the
collaboration, I became more convinced that great teaching is one part proven
Model, and produced my portfolio with his guidance. I learned a great deal from
best practices and two parts a real “feel” for what works and what doesn’t.
www.brewsteracademy.org
29
HOOPLA Lynne Palmer, Bobcat Since 1987 Director of Admission and External Affairs I remember visiting Brewster with my soon-to-be-husband TJ Palmer for his on-campus interview. As the fiancée, I was encouraged to attend, and I thought it was “nice” for the school to include me in the visit. Now that I know what the expectation and commitment of being a boarding faculty member is, I understand the importance for the school to know what a family can bring to the community. The strong sense of community and people who seemed to really enjoy being a part of something intense was evident early, and for me the idea of living with a lot of people and sacrificing some privacy was normal (I grew up in a family of eight with one full bathroom!). Then headmaster David Smith indicated that there was likely “something for me to do” within the community, and I called upon that vague promise about three weeks into the school year. I started working for Brewster in the Development Office, which was a two-person operation at that time. I had no direct experience but had always been a good event planner and had a strong customer-relationship background, which was quickly put to good use. David was a great mentor for me. We were both problem solvers in nature and
25 Years by the Numbers:
relished in the resolution of a strategic puzzle. I loved the process of getting
,514 applications reviewed 7 820 student interviews 21 countries and 32 states visited
to know our families, alumni, and prospective students. It’s a very rewarding job to meet a student at his or her most nervous moment (interviewing) and then watch him or her grow over the years and finally walk across that stage at Commencement with a sense of pride and accomplishment in which we all get
do in collaborative and cooperative learning, it is a must to bring students who care about learning and appreciate the value of working hard.
to share . Still, there are times that test the rewards of the job: when there are just not There have been many challenging times on the job. The current economic reality and its impact on enrollment has been one of the most challenging. While many schools decreased their enrollment goals, Brewster has actually seen a rise in our
enough resources in financial aid to make Brewster possible for more deserving families, when you know you have to break a heart with a decision, or watch the departure of someone who wasn’t quite ready for the experience as you thought.
enrollment, a testament that our program has much value in today’s world. I think my greatest contribution to Brewster, professionally, has been my Our impact on students’ growth and maturation is a reflection of great leadership (historically and currently) that is foundationally firm but willing to adapt to ensure that our program always remains relevant as well as a commitment from individuals who give so much to the students to whom they feel privileged to teach. Over the years, Brewster has remained committed to teaching a variety of learners. We really do celebrate that responsibility here, and our students know it. They each matter individually, and collectively they are stronger for it. I think that many other schools struggle with who they are and who they serve,
involvement in the implementation of our Leadership Athletics Program. Our focus on integrating recruitment efforts with institutional support has brought highly talented student athletes to our community, balanced our gender representation, and exposed Brewster Academy at a global level that raises our reputation overall. Personally, it has been the relationships forged with alumni, parents, students, and partners in enrollment that have enriched my experiences. Receiving the phone call from an excited first-time father or watching the marriage of someone you watched mature is one of the most rewarding moments “on the job.”
and without that definition, it’s difficult to do the job well in admissions. The only change to our selectivity has been in realizing the emphasis on student
Looking back on 25 years astounds me. How did it go so fast? Brady upcoming
expectation and thus a stronger focus on what we call the “good kid factor” as a
graduation will close another chapter for the Palmer’s – bittersweet feeling at
high priority in the application process. When you have such an emphasis as we
Commencement will be a little heavier this year.
30
BrewsterConnections – Spring 2012
Marilyn Shea, Bobcat Since 1987 Academic Dean
My first day at Brewster was truly daunting. I had never taught at a school that devoted so much time to preparing for the opening of school, and I felt overwhelmed with it all. I could appreciate how the efforts would make for a much smoother start to the year for students, but I will never forget the feeling of struggling to process it all at once. It sticks with me to this day and always makes me very sensitive to the experience of new faculty. During my early years I watched the school grow slowly, year by year, but the real enrollment increases came with the reorganization of the school into the Model’s small teams of students, which I found to be a wonderful way to work with students. It allows you to really focus on the students with whom you are working and allows more time to build relationships. I have been pleasantly surprised each year to find that I have ample opportunities to get to know students. Initially, I worried that an administrative role might limit these opportunities or that my role would become overly focused on working with students only when they got into trouble, but this has not been the case. Of course, I am in my element when I am teaching a class and doing that is one way of staying connected to students. There is something magic about Brewster’s students. They are so open and accepting that relationships seem to develop naturally, and I find myself still very involved in the lives of students and grateful to have it that way. Over the years, changes in the school’s physical plant allowed for more needed classroom space. I was a little saddened to see the familiar give way to a new look as changes took place, and I still catch myself reminiscing when I walk past the space that used to be the late Peter
I work largely because they keep
Friend’s classroom or the old computer lab. When I walk into what is
changing, so I must, in turn, keep
now our Tech Office, I get a twinge of nostalgia remembering this was
changing. It’s exciting. And some
the space where I first taught 10th grade English. I can still see Heather
days it’s exhausting!
Vaillancourt ‘90 talking about the “Allegory of the Cave” when we read The Republic or John Gibbs ‘90, Eric Kanov ‘90, and Jon Davenport ’90 working
With the arrival of the Model I felt liberated to do so much of what my instincts
on a project of Utopian literature. There are so many memories of old rooms
had always told me was the best way to teach. At its heart, the Model asserted
behind new doors.
that all students can learn if given the right curriculum and materials and the time needed to learn as well as being frequently assessed to discover what they
The growth in facilities hasn’t changed my work as much as technology has,
have learned and what they still need to master. I disliked the idea that I needed
however. Although the printing press made access to materials easier and did
to fail a few students if my grading was to be taken seriously by colleagues. And
much to standardize spelling, surely it made the world seem very different to
it seemed to me an unfortunate paradox to put a deadline on learning and tell
anyone who lived during its introduction and evolution. Computers and the
a student he or she needs to get it right the first time. What was wrong with
Internet have changed how much we can know and how quickly we can access
letting students get retested? Isn›t the point that you learn? It felt to me as
information, and they have given us completely new ways to acquire learning.
though schools were places where learning was secondary to the race. So I guess
They have changed how we connect to each other in ways that are at once
I was simply already posed to embrace the tenets of the Model. I really found
wonderful and horrifying – at least if you are an old lady! And they change how
very little in it that did not reinforce what I already believed. In the early years,
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31
HOOPLA I often wondered if the concerns about it came more from efforts to define it
here that I had no desire to move on to any other school, because I had landed
rather than the program itself. I think it’s fair to say it was an initiative that took
where I really wanted to be.
hold and one that has served Brewster very well. At first, the attraction was a kinship with colleagues, Looking back over these past many years, I wonder how my life might have been different if I had never
I knew by the end of my second
a feeling that the school was led by someone I truly respected, and the most wonderful bunch of
come to Brewster? I arrived at Brewster in 1987,
year here that I had no desire to
students I had ever worked with. The attraction
having just turned 40. I was hardly a youngster, and
move on to any other school ...
evolved into a changed perspective on what I really
I had some useful experience behind me. I had done enough things to know that teaching satisfied me more than anything else. It never occurred to me
think great teaching is about, however. It isn’t about reading the right novels and mastering chemistry. It›s about what can happen to you while you are
that I was actually still working at growing up. The people here, and community I
doing that if you are in the right kind of school. I came to realize that, for me,
joined, led me to discover what it feels like to completely invest, not just because
making whatever contribution I could make as a teacher would come from
I wanted to do a good job, or because I really like kids, but because every person
joining a community, committing to it, and working through the magical kind of
I worked with was part of my community. I knew by the end of my second year
fellowship that happens when you do that.
Gail Antonucci ’61, Bobcat Since 1985 Payroll and Benefits Coordinator
Nearly 25 years after graduating from Brewster, Gail Antonucci left her job as deputy town clerk of Wolfeboro and returned to Brewster to work in the Business Office. She enjoyed reconnecting with her former teachers when they called with questions regarding payroll or retirement plans. At this time, the Business Office was located in what is now the Academic Building conference room and the faculty room was located in what is now the Dean of Students’ Office. Here faculty would come for coffee, donuts, and cigarettes, she explained. As the number of students increased, the Business Office moved to the Goodwin Building and finally to its present location in Cate House on South Main Street. Gail noted that by moving out of the Academic Building, she and her office workers lost the closeness to the students that they had all enjoyed. As the workload increased, more Business Office employees were hired, whom Gail trained, while she continued her role as payroll and benefits coordinator. Over the past 27 years Gail has been both proud and pleased to represent Brewster Academy to the community in which she has lived all of her life. She loves her work, the people with whom she’s worked, the school itself – and golfing in the Bobcat Open!
32
BrewsterConnections – Spring 2012
Bob Simoneau, Bobcat Since 1985 Foreign Language Teacher, Business Manager 1986-2009 Bob Simoneau’s long trek from California to New Hampshire in a 10-year-old VW Microbus was just the beginning of a long, exciting, and continuing Brewster career. Bob had spent every summer between 1950 and 1972 at his parents’ summer home in nearby Ossipee. During the early summer of 1985, his cousin, local businessman Cliff Simoneau, introduced Bob to Headmaster David Smith, noting that in addition to teaching French, Latin, and Spanish, Bob also had a background in public municipal financing at the state and local school levels. It wasn’t long after that that Bob received a job offer to teach Latin and Spanish part-time at Brewster. Bob, his wife, Maureen, Andre (13), Paulo (9), Maureen’s son Michael (5), and their daughter Megeen (18 months), along with their Italian greyhound, Wags, piled into their 1975 VW pop-top camper and their 1976 Toyota Corona and began the cross-country trip to New Hampshire. Although the VW camper broke down in Wyoming and they had to rent a truck to tow it (they were sleeping in it at night), the Simoneau family arrived on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee just six days late. With a resume that included assistant superintendent of schools for the Compton Unified School District and deputy director of the Office of Economic Opportunities for then California Governor Jerry Brown, it was not long before Bob was tapped for the assistant business position. financial viability for the Academy.
Within a year, he became the business manager for the Academy.
This included bond refinancing, “When I first arrived, I found the setting of the campus on the edge of
enabling the completion of the
the lake to be charming, but once I became assistant business manager,
Wilson Center, renovating family and student housing, and the expansion
I became very familiar with the amount of deferred maintenance. With student admissions growing in excess of 25 percent per year, the new dorms, now
of the Estabrook Dining Hall and the Spaulding-Emerson Student Center.
Spencer, Mason, Hughes, Vaughan, Lamb, and Harris were quickly constructed.” For the past 12 years, Bob and Maureen have been dorm parents in Holmes Prior to leaving San Pedro, California, Bob and Maureen had purchased an old
House (more commonly referred to as Simoneau House). Since stepping down
church parsonage in Wolfeboro Falls, which they moved into on their arrival. They
from his position as business manager in 2009, Bob has returned to his love of
had planned to eventually run it as a B&B, however, changes in the town’s zoning
teaching languages, and Maureen continues in her role as assistant librarian.
laws did not allow the B&B to become a reality. Instead of hosting tourists, the
Brewster Academy is indeed fortunate to have had the services of this devoted
parsonage became an off-campus dormitory, and in the 12 years they remained
couple, and is fortunate that both continue to work with students.
owners, Bob and Maureen were dorm parents to 48 students.
27 Years by the Numbers: For 17 years David Smith and Bob worked closely together, taking on the financial master plan, investing in a rainy day fund, working with the state legislature
9,000 275 10
classes taught ELS classes taught languages spoken
to permit non-profit schools to use municipal bonding, and working to ensure
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33
HOOPLA Kate Turner, Bobcat Since 1986 Associate Director of Athletics
I reported to the Emerson Student Center, which was housed in the Rogers Gymnasium, for my first day on the job, somewhat nervous, not really knowing what to expect. We were gathered there for the new faculty orientation presentation, and I remember being introduced to Julie and Kevin Bradley, Wendell Shaffer, and Dick Fahy. One fond memory I had from those early days is of the late Peter Friend, chair of the English Department. I was walking down the main hallway in the Academic Building and evidently had the “deer in the headlights expression.” Peter stopped me and asked “How are you doing, Kate?” Tears welled up in my eyes as he guided me into the faculty room, which was then in what is now the Dean of Students’ Office. He gave me a pep talk and told me that he had heard many good things about my work. I’m positive that he hadn’t heard a word about me, but it got me through my early insecurities, and I always remember him fondly for that. This was 1986 and the school enrollment was about 240 students. I knew them all by name prior to Thanksgiving. The current enrollment of 364 students has really affected my work, and I have loved the impact of the increased enrollment on athletics, particularly for the girls. We have junior varsity teams in every sport, which was not the case in the I have loved the impact earlier days. We now recruit athletes for varsity level teams in many sports, but of the increased we also have junior varsity teams where beginners can compete, learn, and have a enrollment on meaningful athletic team experience.
athletics, particularly for the girls. We have junior varsity teams in every sport, which was not the case in the earlier days.
When I came to Brewster, it never crossed my mind that I would remain for more than a couple of years. By nature, I’m a person who relishes change and new challenges. I imagined being at Brewster until something different, more exciting came along. Something different and more exciting did come along – right at Brewster. When the Brewster Model’s technology was introduced, I embraced it (to this day my grandchildren call me Techno-Gran), and I continue to thrive on the next Big Thing, whether it’s emotional literacy or Moodle. In fact, a couple of weeks ago, I decided that I was bored with Facebook and am now moving on to Twitter.
seeing a single girl working out in that area. Now the entire school and even the outside community uses and enjoys the facility. Although I embraced the Model, I was skeptical about how it related to athletics, but it has proven to be a really effective tool for coaches to evaluate and reward their players. Prior to the Model, the coaches didn’t have a fair and systematic method to evaluate their players. I would say that what filtered out of the Model for the Athletic Department was its help with our overall recognition system. If I had to cite just a single, fun addition I made, in all modesty, I’d have to say that I have, or at least have tried to, liven up some of the sports assemblies with my iMovies. I think the students look forward to them.
I would like to add that I have been extremely fortunate to have worked for Considering the growth of the school’s physical plant, the Smith Center has three different – very different – and excellent athletic directors – Bill Pottle (13 impacted my job in uncountable ways. When we were all crammed into the years), Doug Algate (11 years), and Matt Lawlor (2 years and counting!) The one Rogers Gym, the Admission Office would tell their tour guides that unless attribute that they have all shared is that they each have listened to me carefully prospective students specifically asked to see the gym, it was okay to leave it and have thoughtfully considered my opinions. All three gentlemen have made off the tour. Now the Smith Center is a highly featured stop. While Brewster my job one that I’m so grateful to have had for 26 years. has always valued its sports programs and athletes, it wasn’t that obvious with the gym that we had outgrown years before 26 Years by the Numbers: the Smith Center became a reality. We now attract the critical 831,006 miles Brewster “vans” have traveled to and from games; about 33 times around the earth! numbers of athletes that we need for viable teams with the 6,394 buses hired and vans assigned for games beautiful and functional center. Those who remember the old 1,152 medallions ordered for MVP’s, MIP, and Coaches Award winners weight room in Rogers, also remember that very few wanted to 78 sports awards assemblies organized (and 38 iMovies) use the area. There were a few diehard lifters, but I don’t recall ever
34
BrewsterConnections – Spring 2012
Susan Nichols, Bobcat Since 1987 Secretary to the Head of School
I remember my first day as the Headmaster’s secretary. It was the middle of September and classes had begun only about a week earlier. My desk sat pretty much in the same location as it does today, but the office itself has gone through many physical changes since. At this time, the Business Office was located across from the Headmaster’s Office and there was always a lot of activity with students and faculty coming and going. The floors in the hallway were not carpeted, but were beautiful old wooden floors that creaked and groaned when walked on so the noise level was something when classes changed, but I could always tell when someone was coming. The mailroom was closed on Saturdays so all the mail came in to the main office, and we sorted piles for students to pick up. Of course, being new it all felt a little overwhelming the first few days, but everyone was extremely nice, helpful, and patient while I got familiar with my new job. I was used to working in a school environment having just moved from Connecticut with my husband where I had worked in the Business Office of a private day school for eight years. What I wasn’t used to was the fact that at a boarding school there are classes on Saturdays and no “snow days” in the winter, but I also felt a greater sense
When I first arrived at Brewster, the Development and Alumni
of community and family.
Office was located in a small building that had been the former
The changes and improvements over the years, especially in technology, have greatly influenced my job. The first few years I worked at Brewster the secretaries only had typewriters with a two-page memory capacity. If we were typing anything longer than two pages, we had to make sure work was corrected and
boathouse, which had been moved up from the lake and placed where the visitor parking lot is now. It also housed the journalism studio on the second floor. The building was eventually relocated to where it sits today as the Arts Building. The completion of the Pinckney Boathouse, moving Chamberlin House across campus, and the construction of both the
revised before moving on to additional pages. Everything was typed on carbon copies, and I always had a dictionary and bottle of whiteout handy for spell check and corrections. The secretaries would have to carry their typewriters to “Rip and Tear,”
Pigeons would fall through the old air ducts that ran through the walls. I’d hear their cooing, open the grate, and release the pigeon out the side door.
which was the term used for grade report night when the faculty would gather in the old Kenison Library and faculty would seek out someone on a typewriter to make any corrections before sending reports to parents. Today’s computers and the portal have come a long way in making the offices more efficient and saving our backs! There have been many physical changes on campus as well. Before the third
Wilson Center and the Smith Center are just a few of the many additions I have seen over the past 25 years. I am grateful for all the opportunities I have to work with and get to know so many wonderful people here at Brewster. I’m now
in my second year of being a co-community life parent at Spencer House, which offers an even greater opportunity for getting to know the students and being a part of the Brewster family. My children and I are forever grateful for being part of this extraordinary community.
floor of the Academic Building was renovated for the first year of the Brewster Model, pigeons would fall through the old air ducts that ran through the walls. I’d
25 Years by the Numbers:
hear their cooing, open the grate, and release the pigeon out the side door. We
25,000 phone calls answered 1 25,000 meetings scheduled 100 trustee meeting preparations
frequently had bats come to visit from the third floor as well but would call the maintenance department to come with their net to catch these!
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35
HOOPLA Kim Ross, Bobcat Since 1987 Dean of Academic Support Programs We’ve picked up the pace and accomplished a lot in the 25 years that I have been at Brewster. When I first arrived at Brewster as a learning skills teacher, the Learning Skills Program was in its early stages of recognizing the importance of meeting each student’s individual needs. My previous school specialized in working with students with learning differences, and I knew within the first week that I could help bring about changes that would advance student learning because it was no longer acceptable to have one lesson plan to reach all students. A few years after my arrival, Dr. Alan Bain was hired as the learning skills director. Brewster was moving toward a more intentional, researched-based set of practices and the learning skills faculty would attend a two-week pre-Brewster Summer Institute training session to prepare to pilot practices that would be implemented systemically. This was the year that I stepped into the role of dean of Academic Support Programs, and Dr. Bain moved to assist in a whole school reform known as the Brewster Model. The changes were very directive, prescriptive, and evaluative. It was the art and craft of each teacher that had been valued and now the direction was swinging toward the science being of higher value. I played a role in helping to establish a clearly defined set of expectations by which we functioned from the admission stage through graduation. On top of mastering educational best practices, teachers were expected to
approach that allows us to carry out
use laptops as a tool for sharing and managing information. The objective
our mission to best serve students.
was for all teachers and students to have equal access to educational
Our Instructional Support Program
tools so that when skills are taught students can practice them using interactive software that best matches their learning styles while increasing engagement. Since that time, technology has advanced to leveling the playing fields for students with learning differences, and its integration has made learning more interesting and interactive. Excellent schools look for innovation and change that is rooted in best practices that support student-based outcomes. The Model seemed to be the road map that would guide us toward advancing student growth and performance. It appeared to have all the right ingredients, however, with change came growing pains that caused us to step back and reflect on our path. Recognizing the importance of supporting newly hired teachers as they transition into the boarding school environment, I have worked to implement a Faculty Mentor Program. Its purpose is to promote a healthy attitude and outlook on the teaching profession while fostering professional standards that are embraced by all faculty. Many independent schools throughout the years have asked how we do what we do and my first response is that we have established a systemic and holistic
36
BrewsterConnections – Spring 2012
has a long history of being one of the strongest in the nation, because we have developed a fully integrated approach to ensure students acquire academic, social, and emotional skills necessary for success. We provide skills during individual sessions and then have the student apply them in the classroom while we observe and provide feedback necessary for change. I have been fortunate to work with so many talented teachers who have become leading specialists in the field of education. There are now 16 instructional support teachers, whose primary focus is supporting the student to become an independent learner. Brewster continues to stay on the leading edge in advancing students’ skills to prepare them for success in college and the work place. As long as we remain innovative, embrace diversity, celebrate abilities, and stay true to our mission then all students will grow with confidence and self-assuredness.
25 Years by the Numbers: 4,000 application folders read 400 student or faculty observations completed 102 independent schools have sought advice about Brewster’s Academic Support Program
Matt Hoopes, Bobcat Since 1975 Alumni Correspondent
Having been a burned-out administrator of an all-male pre-prep school for 11
the administration
years prior to my arrival at Brewster, I was excited by the prospects of teaching
cringe. The two
older students and especially looking forward to working with the attentive,
journalism classes
polite female students. To say that I was a tad shell-shocked by the end of the
were busy as they also
first day would barely be an exaggeration.
produced the yearbook and the BAPA (Brewster
I had been hired as a part-time employee with just two essay composition
Academy Publications
courses to teach. By nightfall, however, I’d been awarded the positions of adviser
and Address) Book –
to the Student Court and to the yearbook. It was explained to me, briefly, that
nine publications a year
to be a good teacher at Brewster, one had to be involved in everything and so I
with one typewriter
found myself with nights of dormitory supervision as well as weekend duties. The
and zero computers.
most distressing lesson of that first day was that I found the female students to
According to our
be less than attentive, and not necessarily polite. But it was only the first day,
yearbook printer in
things would improve.
1995, we were the
I settled in and for the next 21 years I thoroughly enjoyed my involvement in all sorts of extracurricular activities, including advising the Student Council, the Class Gift Committee, and even helped students set up WBAR, the school’s short-lived radio station. For more than 12 years I taught all the sophomore English classes, some years with five sections. When I arrived in 1975, the Academic Building, the Estabrook Dining Hall, the Rogers Gymnasium, and the three dorms: Bearce, Brown, and Sargent comprised all the school facilities. There was a tiny, one-room library, one science lab in the basement of the Ac, and one small yellow school bus that broke down regularly while transporting the two varsity and junior varsity teams we had each season. Each dorm had one phone in the hallway and one black and white TV in a cramped mini-lounge. The Estabrook kitchen provided a set menu per meal, no optional choices. In comparison to Brewster today, it might seem like we suffered, but with 118 students and just 15 faculty and staff members but we
only school in New Hampshire still using the glue and paste method of prepping pages. Definitely a change was needed, and I was not the person to lead that change. In 1996 with the arrival of computers that I didn’t know how to turn on, I crossed Main Street and went to work for the Alumni Office. One of my duties was to organize an event at which alumni who were still in college would return and hold a meeting with the senior class, detailing the ins and outs of college. At first these events seemed helpful and instructive, but as they later tended to focus on the social side of campus life, I was told I no longer needed to organize them. My position, however, as the alumni correspondent has been helpful in keeping alums in touch with the school and with each other. I know I’ve certainly enjoyed working with 37 years worth of alumni!
were a small close-knit community in which everyone knew each others’ name
This is my 16th year of helping former student Beth Hayes ’81 with Reunion
and personality. With so much work to do and with so few to do it, there was a
Weekend, and while Beth does the brunt of the organizing and is a whiz at all the
clear understanding that we all needed to pitch in for the benefit of the school.
details, she lets me pitch in and I truly love working with the gradually maturing
Students helped out in the kitchen, in the dorms, and in the classrooms. Special
alums, meeting and getting to know their spouses and children. While it does
occasions such as Parents’ Weekend would find all 140 individuals working
take a lot of effort to round up everyone for the three-day event of rehashing
toward the goal of preparing the entire campus for the event.
good times and memories, it is so much fun to see all having such a great time,
We had no idea that in the next 30 years the school would be transformed by technology, major curriculum enhancements, and growth of the physical plant.
teasing each other with early nicknames, and simply re-connecting and bonding with Brewster.
In that sense, perhaps, one could say ignorance is bliss, yet at the time I was very
In ending my memory jaunt, I should point out a pleasant twist of fate:
content with what Brewster had and what Brewster was.
The scary computers that drove me from the classroom are now the friendly
I think I’m most proud of what the students and I were able to do in the way of student publication. With blessings from the English chair, the late Peter Friend, I attempted to establish a journalism program. Admittedly, with no credit given at first, it was a rough start, and yet when the first issue of our mimeographed Outcroppings was published, we were off and running. The Browser (first known as The Students’ Voice) followed the next year. We produced six issues a year, sometimes with as many as 16 pages, including zinging editorials, often making
ones that allow me to continue to work for Brewster from a much warmer clime. Hopefully not all my marbles will roll away, at least not for a few more years, as I still have more fascinating Hooplas to write.
25 Years by the Numbers: 97 Browsers produced 3,629 Days worked in temperatures above 80 degrees 36,200 Personalized postcards sent to alumni
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37
Class Notes 1936
1948
1953
Cecil Wentworth writes: “My education at Brewster
Jacquellyn “Lynn” Ryan-Cameron has two sons
Leo Kravchuk writes: “I’m retired as a special
was a major contribution to my success with the
and three grandchildren. “I moved recently from
agent with the Criminal Investigation Division
Corps of Engineers and private consulting. I have
Camarillo, California, (where I lived after I retired)
of the Internal Revenue Service and also retired
great memories, particularly of the professional
to Long Beach, California, to live closer to my
as a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve.
leadership of Mr. Sargent, Bob Page, and Miss
sons David and Garth Ryan. I just celebrated my
Enjoying my retirement – family, traveling, and
Hubbard. Retired on a farm in Brookfield and South
81st birthday and would love to reconnect with
oenology.”
Berwick, Maine.”
classmates, especially Lucia Jutras, who was
1944
my closest and dearest friend when I attended
1959
Brewster.”
Jane (Clow) Smalley writes: “I enjoy traveling and
Lucille Macolino and husband celebrated 62 years of
I just returned from a trip to Russia and Mongolia;
marriage in November. “We have six grandchildren
1950
the Hermitage in St. Petersburg; and the Kremlin in
and five great-grandchildren. We are very happy.
Brad Barker and wife Sindy live in Chapel Hill, North
Moscow, including five days riding the Trans-Siberian
They all play sports.”
Carolina. He misses hearing news from the Class of
Railroad to Mongolia. We went horseback riding for
1950 and especially would like to hear from Paula
several days and slept in tents in the snowy Altai
Garvey or Sylvia Gould Denton.
Mountains in western Mongolia. We also enjoyed
1945 Iris Paul lives in Redding, Connecticut, and she has four grandchildren, ages 8 to 30.
meeting the families living on the steppes – the
1951
seemingly endless grasslands that went on forever
Janet Noland worked for the government at the
– herding their yaks, goats, and sheep. We had our
1947
Pentagon and was assigned to Tokyo for two years,
meals in a ger, a round felt-like structure similar to
Bob Bishop and wife Carol are building a home in
where she met her husband through the U.S. Army.
a yurt with a small stove for cooking and warmth.
Houston. He fondly recalled his all-time favorite
She was married in Tokyo and was an Army wife in
We completed the trip by attending a festival to
teacher Burtis Vaughan and performing in the play
Maryland, Texas, New Mexico, and Germany. Janet is
watch the centuries-old traditions of eagle hunting.
Our Town with classmates.
now retired and returned to New Hampshire in 1986.
The eagles are used to hunt small game, including
Super Fans at a basketball game in the Smith Center. Among the Super Fans are David Pollini ’57, former teacher Mal Murray, Jackie (Lord) Murray ’54, David Douglas ’59, Grace (Campbell) Douglas ’58, and Bruce Crowther ’64. Photo taken by Monie (Stevens) Zarinsky ’54.
38
BrewsterConnections – Spring 2012
Jane (Clow) Smalley ’59 recently travelled through Russia and Mongolia.
Recollections
rabbit and fox. Experiences and sights like this made Mongolia a very special place for me to visit.”
Experienced Alumni Recall Their Brewster Days
1961 Roland Rodrigues will be inducted into the Rhode Island Interscholastic League’s Hall of Fame in May. Roland was an outstanding member of Brewster’s 1960-1961 football team. A native of Bristol, Rhode
Mildred Beach ’42
Island, he was a Providence Journal-Bulletin All-
Wolfeboro
State halfback and played football for the University of Rhode Island. After college, he taught at Bristol
“The one reflection that stays with me is
High School and became a legendary wrestling and
that while there have been many changes at
football coach.
Brewster over the years, the beautiful view of Lake Winnipesaukee and the Belknap
1964 Don Grout and Dale Whittemore dated during their
Steve Morrissey ’71 lives in Wilmington, North Carolina.
Mountain Range, as seen from the campus, remains the same.”
freshman and sophomore years at Brewster. After his sophomore year, Don returned to his hometown in
1971
Nancy Hoppe ’49
Massachusetts to attend school while Dale stayed
Steve Morrissey of Wilmington, North Carolina,
Largo, Florida
Brewster and graduated with her class. Don entered
credits his postgraduate year at Brewster for his
the U.S. Navy, married and raised a family. He retired
success in the technology business.
“When, in my senior year at Brewster, I was assigned the part of Penelope in George
in 1987 as a Chief Warrant Officer (CW04) after 24 years of service. After graduation, Dale married,
1976
Kaufman’s play You Can’t Take It With You,
raised a family, and helped her husband start his
Richard Coupland is a civilian engineer at the Naval
my love of acting was ignited and the flame
carpet business. During their 35th Class reunion,
Underwater Warfare Center in Newport, Rhode
has never died.”
they reunited, and in 2000, were married. In 2009,
Island. “I’ve been here since 1980, but I’ve done a lot
Dale became the owner of Johnson Paint and
of different things, and I’m on about my third career
“I have never forgotten how Mrs. [Barbara]
Wallpaper in Wolfeboro. Don and Dale have three
within the organization. I’ve been married to my
Zulauf, Brewster’s drama director, among
grown children and six grandchildren.”
wonderful wife Lynne since 1984, and we’ve raised
many other talents, guided and supported
two children. Paul, 25, has degrees in auto mechanics
us in our roles and made it all seem so easy
Richard Hildebrand retired from Yale University in
and business (and has a job!). Katie, 22, graduated
and so much fun. And we did it all in that
November 2011 after 14 years with the Athletic
from the University of Rhode Island with a degree in
beautiful place by the lake. Throughout my
Department and was looking forward to enjoying
environmental science.”
life, any time a chance to act or encourage acting has come up, I have been ready and
retirement with his wife Carol and family. Mel Foster and wife Brenda enjoy wintering in
1967
fortunate to participate.”
southwest Florida. “And while every one of the characters
Eugene Fox returned to New Hampshire seven years ago to again work in public education – counseling
Thomas Trieschmann, wife Susan, and dog Taz live in
associated with my four years at Brewster
students in course selection, college placement
Illinois. Their son Trevor, 23, graduated from Indiana
enriched my life, from teachers and staff to so
testing, and college counseling. “I finally hung up
University last May and daughter Anna, 20, is a
many friends and acquaintances, the process
my soccer coaching jersey after 30 years off and on
junior at Boston College.
has not ended. Every time I attend a reunion it is always a gift to see my old friends from
the field. Ended with my best coaching record for a season, coaching jv girls and assisting varsity with
1977
so long ago, but it is just as thrilling to meet
a 14-0-1 record – thank you girls! Still skiing with
Eric Haucke claims he will attend his reunion next
new and often challenging actors like the two
frat brothers and friends. Thanks to Brewster, Copple
June and is hoping someone can find former faculty
Nancys (Nancy Greer and Nancy Moulton ‘65)
Crown, and the view across the lake out my dorm
member Gary Waldron and drag him along! When
and the very special Matt Hoopes. I intend
window at Gunstock.”
he wrote, he had just returned from canoeing
to keep on coming back so I can embrace the next exciting act.”
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39
Class Notes and fossil hunting in North Carolina and Virginia
1981
with his brother. “I attempted several times to
Andrew Brennan lives in the high desert of Arizona,
contact Preston Williams ‘77 without luck. Jogging
not far from Sedona, and enjoys photography, target
and working out, I’m still at my Brewster weight
shooting, and hiking. Catholic spiritually has become
(although I couldn’t play soccer at age 17 either!).
important to him in recent years, and he recently
Keep up with Alumni Bobcats of the Month at www.brewsteracademy.org. Most recently featured were soccer players Shaka Pilgrim ’09 and Chanelle Roy ’08.
attended a mini-retreat at a monastery in northern
community. Giving Charlotte the same opportunity
Peter Lewin and wife Valerie live in Salisbury,
Alabama. He’s still single and is a consultant in the
is the finest gift I can give her.”
Connecticut, with their three cats: Dan, Jim, and
digital media business.
Brooklyn.
1987 1982
Charles “C.B.” Currier, wife Melissa, and twins
1978
Bruce Boyarsky writes that life is going well. He has
Charles and Eleanor, live in Stratham, New
Debbie Al-Harbi writes: “My daughter Naseem
four kids, the oldest soon to graduate from Boston
Hampshire. “No politics for now. I am director
works for Harvard University in international
College. He volunteers with Habitat for Humanity
of engineering for network security appliance
relations and is studying there for her third degree.
every year in the Gulf Coast. After receiving a
manufacturer, Resilience. The twins turned 5 in
Adam is studying to be a nurse, and Samuel is
handwritten letter from one of his fellow workers –
November and are in a great program here in New
studying economics. I was married 31 years in
the first one he’s received in 15 years (not counting
Hampshire and life has stabilized nicely.” He is
December.”
Hoopes’ postcards) – Bruce has started his own
focused on racing his Melgas 24 and cruising an
letter-writing campaign, writing one letter a week to
Albert 30 this season.
Scott Mason writes: “Hi to all my old Brewster
people who have been important in his life.
friends! I’m living in Maine with the love of my life. Proud father to two great kids and loving life.”
Tamah French-Proops writes: “So looking forward
1984
to our reunion – can’t believe it’s been 25 years!
Steven Smith, a lawyer practicing in Palm Beach
Hoping so many of us can celebrate together.”
1979
Gardens, Florida, and a man of few words, wants
Tamah’s third child, daughter Poppy, arrived in
Keith Magovern says hello to all his classmates. He
all to know that “Things are great. Morgan is 3 and
December 2011.
recently worked nights doing construction inspection
Stella is 2; I’m trying to keep my head above water.
on New York City’s Triborough Bridge and writes:
Florida is pleasant, but miss New England.”
“The views of the city during the full moon were great.”
James Gregg writes that he is recovering from an injury and getting stronger every day. He is looking
Wendel Wirth recently reconnected with news that
forward to getting back to work. Last summer he
she sold her dog business in 2007 and that she will
rode his bike to and from the beach along the coast
Richard O’Brien writes that life is good. He is still
complete her master’s in photography within the
of Maine where he swims (with a wetsuit on!). His
in Colorado, single with no children. He is sorry
year. She was planning a visit to the Bahamas in
family ties keep him very busy.
he’s been out of touch for so long, but the last few
March where she would try
years had been kind of crazy. “My best years were at
to find Hoopes.
Brewster. I loved that school!”
1985 1980
Rachel Garfield of Cary,
Paige Livingston writes that she and her family
North Carolina, reports that
are in culture shock, having moved from Sydney,
daughter Charlotte can’t
Australia, where she lived for the past 21 years, to
wait to become a Brewster
Los Angeles. “Let’s see, I’m married, am an aging
Bobcat. Rachel shared that
hippie! My son Ziggy is 12, daughter Dexter is 10.
“My years at Brewster were
My hubby Thomas does special effects in film, and I
wonderful. I succeeded
am a producer. Did a feature kids animation for TV
academically and developed
last year.”
into the person I am today because of the faculty and
40
BrewsterConnections – Spring 2012
Rachel Garfield ‘85 of Cary, North Carolina, and daughter Charlotte who is thinking of becoming a Bobcat.
Krista Magnifico lives in Pennsylvania with husband
daughter Channing’s first birthday. Mitch is
Joe and their three dogs, six cats and one pig. She
partnering with the Alumni and Development Office
is a veterinarian and writes: “I’m busting my butt
to coordinate a Dallas Brewster alumni chapter. We
trying to save the four-legged world!”
look forward to working with him and the chapter in the coming months – watch for an invitation to a Dallas event this spring!
Emile “Anton” Rainold is going to try and make the 25th Reunion. He and wife Tavi and son AJ are doing well and still enjoying the Colorado mountains.
1991
Anton enjoys hunting bull elk during archery season.
Jen (Feldman) Barkon, is living the American dream in the middle of Los Angeles. “Husband Gil
Adam Renner writes: “My wife and I welcomed our
and I have been married for seven years, which has
new boys Evan and Eli on September 25, 2011, and
resulted in Eli, 5, and Sydney, 3, who are managing
they join their twin brothers, Caleb and Connor, 4.
to give it back to me ... in spades. All the Brewster
Yes, you read right, two sets of twins ... To say our
faculty can rest assured that I am getting what I’m Mitch Wolff ’s ’90 daughter Channing Elizabeth Wolff recently celebrated her first birthday.
due! I’m climbing the corporate ladder (very tired)
1989
Foundation. He lives with his wife and one-year-old
greener pastures of advertising and am very happy.
Michael Snyder announced that after 22 plus years
son on the outskirts of Los Angeles.
I’ve kept in touch with Susie Maggard and Mark
life is chaotic would be an understatement.”
and have left fashion (at least literally) for the
Radley ‘90 and recently had dinner with Tim Smith
Jennifer Riley finally accepted his proposal for marriage, and they’ve bought a home outside of
David Hunter says: “Life is good! Daughter Peyton is
Boston.
7 and daughter Eliza just turned 1.”
in San Francisco. All are doing fine!”
Elizabeth Dales wrote in last summer describing Pun Chavalitdhamrong and Kristin “Kit” Van
Mitch Wolff is a principal at the commercial real
life with her son Jack as very busy. At the time,
Wagner caught up over lunch in Bangkok. “I’m
estate firm Newmark Knight Frank in their Dallas
Jack was in computer camp, sailing lessons, and
spending four and a half months in Southeast Asia
location. He and wife Carrie recently celebrated
preparing for an upcoming wilderness camp and a
working on a small expedition ship. Have quit the desk jockey world forever – I hope!”
Matt Woodward and wife Monique restored a historic house in the heart of Denver. Matt works in technology, doing backup for corporate databases and other systems. “If someone deletes something, we get it back for them, maybe. I like it because
Mystery Photo Be the first alumna/us to tell us which faculty member hosts this Uncle Sam in his or her classroom and win an autographed copy of The Brewster Story: A Definitive History of Brewster Academy, by Robert and Shirley Richardson.
most of the time someone else makes the mistake and has to come to us for help. The downside is that no one notices you unless something goes wrong!”
1990 Jonathan DePeyer admitted that he prefers to keep a low profile but has kept in touch with his former roommates and has fond memories of his time at Brewster. He earned a master’s in counseling at the University of Laverne and counsels and coaches at a private all-boys’ high school where he also works with special needs students. Jon is a martial arts
We had many alumni correctly identify the six cheerleaders in last issue’s Mystery Photo but Jane Clow Smalley ’59 was the first to do so. Jane commented “I remembered every one of the names before I went to my yearbook to look for the picture! Amazing how it comes back to us. I may not remember everyone who was on a hike I led two weeks ago – but 52 years ago …” The Bobcat cheerleaders in the 1959 photo were (l to r): Posey (Leavitt) Funkhouser ‘61, Carol (Johnson) Appleton ‘59, Betsy Fernald-Maier ‘61, Mary (Glidden) Cleary ‘59, Helena “Joy” (Jutras) Thurston ‘59, and Peggi (Reissfelder) Smith ‘59.
instructor and has written a book, Rebuilding the
www.brewsteracademy.org
41
Class Notes Sebastian “Bastian”
are happy, blessed, and excited. We look forward to
Smallegange and wife
being in Wolfeboro in June, 2013.”
Heather live in Jupiter, Florida, with their two
Justice Rines is a J.D. and MBA candidate at the
daughters, Alivia, 10, and
University of New Hampshire School of Law, Class
Isabella, 4. Bastian writes
of 2014.
that he is living in fantasy land, building “monster
1995
estates for the 1 percent
Molly (Kirkpatrick) Abrahamson writes: “Things are
of the population that can
wonderful in North Carolina, though we had a very
afford them!”
hot summer. I was married in 2005, and my husband and I (and our then 5-week old daughter) moved
Mark Wong ‘92, Lauren Lok ‘99, and Howard Kwong ‘99 in Hong Kong with Jim Bastis.
1992
from Rhode Island to North Carolina in 2006. We
Timothy Keating works
now have three toddlers (ages 4, 3, and 2)! We live
for American Eagle Airlines
just north of Charlotte in the Lake Norman area and
at O’Hare International
love it.”
Airport in Chicago. A. Alexis and Mat Roberson ‘93 and daughter Mikel,
week at Camp Belknap, just outside of Wolfeboro.
Gregory McLean, wife Elizabeth, and children Declan,
5, live in New Hampshire with their cat, Tuna. Alexis
Beth attended her 20th Reunion last June and “loved
2, and Mason, 1, live in Melrose, Massachusetts. Greg
writes: “It’s great to hear how old friends are doing.
seeing everyone and have gotten together with
still has “fond memories of the people I met, the
Life is so busy it’s hard to keep in touch. We are
friends since. Brewster has made such an impact on
experiences I had, and the structure that Brewster
enjoying watching our daughter grow and are trying
my life and continues to be a reminder of how many
put in place for me to set goals and work hard to
our best to slow down and treasure these times.”
wonderful people I made friends with – such a great
achieve them.”
1997
experience keeps on giving!” Ilya Musicante lives in Vail Valley, Colorado, running
Jessica Ridgeway writes that she and Seth bought
Lesley Grinberg and husband Gyl welcomed Isabella
her own recruiting business, and says “Life is good
a house in Aptos, California, in January 2011 and
Rose on January 21. “She joins her two big brothers,
working from the chairlift.”
were expecting their second child in February 2012. “I still run the Live Earth Farm Discovery Program,
Ari and Max, in our wonderful family.” Stephen Spanger, wife Susan, and son Gavin, 2, live
teaching kids of all ages about local food systems
in Weehawken, New Jersey.
and sustainable agriculture.”
forward to visiting campus this spring with wife
1993
David Simon and wife Jennifer live in Richmond,
Jeannie and son Sebastian to watch a boys’ lacrosse
Mark Carlson still lives on Beacon Hill and works in
California, with their two dogs, Sutro and Ellie.
game and speak with the Brewster Business Club
fixed-income management. “I’m engaged, and we have
about his entrepreneurial ventures.
a great older dog we adopted from a rescue league.”
Laurence Seiterle lives in San Antonio where he works at Zurich US Properties. Laurence looks
Pick up Those STX Sunday, May 20 at 2 p.m. is the annual alumni vs. boys’ varsity lacrosse game. This springtime tradition brings alumni, parents, and friends back to campus for an afternoon of friendly competition on Palazzo Field. A player BBQ follows at the Pinckney Boathouse. More Information: Bill_Lee@brewsteracademy.org
42
BrewsterConnections – Spring 2012
1999 Ramsey Cotherman writes: “2011 was super busy
Daniel McCoy is working on his master’s in adult
for me. I turned 30, got engaged, bought a house,
and post-secondary education at the University
graduated from college, and had another baby. Ha
of Wyoming. “While I work, I still run the outdoor
Ha! Best year yet!”
program and have been busy with elk hunting; hoping for a great ski year.”
Gregory Douglass writes, “I was featured on National Public Radio’s “Morning Edition” on
Elizabeth (Palmer) Traverso’s newest baby, daughter
December 28, 2011, and it was, quite frankly, a
Isla Elizabeth Traverso, was born on November 4,
dream come true. The interview really told my story
2011. Elizabeth writes: “Hugo, 4, wanted a sister! We
as an independent artist and it may have been the
most humbling coverage I’ve ever received. The interview is still up on NPR’s website if you missed it and want to listen. I was also recently featured on Boston’s MIX 104.1 (CBS Radio) “15 Seconds of Fame” for my Adele cover of Set Fire To The Rain. Gregory also took Top 3 honors in the New Stage web series that he was a part of with Jersey Shore’s Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino and thanks friends for all their votes. “It was a fun ride!”
Vanessa Tamanini writes: “I have been the business manager for the New England region of a global engineering/architecture management firm in Boston for the past four and a half years and absolutely love what I do. I still always make time to travel. Sending best wishes to my classmates and the rest of the Brewster family.”
(l to r): Shawn Houde ’04, Ryan Lafond ’01, Matt Rogers ’02, Lynne Palmer, Ray Bourque, and TJ Palmer at Matt’s December wedding.
2001 Bruce Hawkins is living in Stone Mountain, Georgia,
Reagan Jobe is the director of photography and
the wedding party. Lynne and TJ Palmer joined the
where he is practicing law. “After taking the bar exam
digital media at Sotheby’s International Realty.
Rogers for the celebration.
curve. It takes so much reading, observing, and
2002
Abby Wood writes: “I have started my fifth year of
applying what you’ve learned to be a good lawyer. I
Nicole Black lives in White Plains, New York.
teaching middle school social studies and am in the
chose to focus primarily on criminal defense, and I
“Looking forward to our 10th Reunion! I can’t believe
last year of working on my master’s. I hope to make
love what I do. I meet people at their lowest points
how time flies!”
it back to Brewster in summer 2012.”
Matt Rogers married Melissa Bourque in December
Ian White and dog Bently live in Davie, Florida. Ian
2011 at St. Cecilia’s Church in Boston. His best man
is working for the Norweigan Cruise Line next to Ft.
was Ryan Lafond ’01, and Shawn Houde ’04 was in
Lauderdale. “I’m not missing the New Hampshire
in Georgia, I realized that there is a great learning
and try to help them back up.”
cold weather winters!”
Attorney and author Bruce Hawkins ’01 lives in Stone Mountain, Georgia.
Jasmine Hamlor ’04, Clarissa Segars ’03, and Daneira Fuller ’03 enjoyed brunch and shopping in New York City on December 26.
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43
Class Notes
(l to r): Lambert de Ganay, Christina Strong, Scott Morgan, Bri Gatta, Michael Milone, Julia Gordon, and Curran Robinette all members of the Class of 2005 gathered in Chatham, Massachusetts, to celebrate 10 years of friendship, the close of 2011, and the start of 2012!
2004
Morgan, Michael Milone, and Curran Robinette. I
Jeremy Krumsick is working in mid-town Manhattan
also ran into a few from the class above us, including
but was recently in Wolfeboro where he visited Mr.
Hunter Smith ’04 and Josh Sims ’04. I also visited
Mann, Mr. Kiley, and Mr. Fouser.
with Curran’s sister, Morgan Robinette ’12. Many from this same group also gathered on Cape Cod to
Alyssa Spagnolo is getting married in October. Her
ring in the New Year.
Members of the Class of 2011 gathered at the Tambone’s in Massachusetts for a holiday party. Standing (l to r): Jacob Alden, Connor Nolan, Brennen Shaw, Stephen Balsamo, Johnny Wadlinger, Joey Grasso, Dana Hughes; Seated on couch: Courtney Piper, Emma Jones, Meredith Haynes, Tori Tambone, Tori Webster, Lindsey Tambone; in front: Jackson Callahan, Anna Chaletzky, and Calder Billings
Will Archibald ‘00 Will Archibald, 30, of Morrisville, North Carolina, passed away on January 27.
fiance, Carlos, graduated from Kenyon College and coaches at Wellesley College.
2007 Annabelle Knight graduated from Boston University
2005
in 2010 and earned a master’s in education from
Bri Gatta was in Wolfeboro over Labor Day weekend
Lesley University in 2011. “I moved to the San
for a mini-reunion with classmates. “The reunion
Francisco Bay area in September 2011, and I am
included Julia Gordon, Christina Strong, Scott
currently working as an early childhood educator.”
A 2009 motorcycle accident left Will paralyzed from the waist down, but he had made tremendous strides learning to live as a paraplegic. He learned to kayak and competed at Lake Placid in the Paralympic trials. He also learned to play sled hockey and recently travelled to Philadelphia to play in a national tournament. He was a two-time participant at the “Life Rolls On” surfing event at Wrightsville Beach in North Carolina, and he monoskied in North Carolina and New Hampshire. His sister Emily Johnson shared the following: “Will was an inspiration to us all. He will always be a hero to me. While he encountered many challenges in life, the most recent being his spinal cord injury, he persevered and went on to get involved in kayaking, sled hockey, and monoskiing. He didn’t let anything hold him back. He had an infectious smile and a kind heart.”
Holly O’Donnell ’05 and Daniel Szklarz were married last summer. Pictured with the couple are Kelly O’Donnell ’07, Peggy O’Donnell, Katherine Szklarz, Brian O’Donnell (holding Holly and Daniels’s son Keagan) and Jared O’Donnell ’14.
44
BrewsterConnections – Spring 2012
Send us your Class Note, and we will do our best to include it in the next BrewsterConnections: alumninews@brewsteracademy.org
In Appreciation Remembering Alex Rogers ‘89 By Matt Hoopes Alex Rogers ’89 passed away on December 8 after a second battle with cancer. I last saw Alex at Reunion 2010, but I had known him for 26 years and have wonderful memories of dog sledding and sailing with him during his Brewster weekends. In 2010 we had a lot of fun working on a Hoopla column (spring 2010) we wrote together about his antique business. Even after the return of his cancer, his final e-mails were upbeat, cheerful, strong, and positive. I know as a Alex Rogers ‘89 relaxing at the 2010 Reunion with Jennifer Riley ‘90, MIchael teacher I’m not supposed to have favorite Snyder ‘89, and Jon Gibbs ‘90. students, but I did, many actually, and now I’m minus a very special one. His classmates shared the following remembrances of Alex: “He would much rather you open and share a nice bottle of wine than to shed tears over him. …I want Alex’s classmates to think about Alex’s loss. He had so much left to do. I think of the wonderful women he leaves behind, Adel and his kind mother. I cry for them!” –Michael Snyder ’89 “Alex had a heart of gold. He brought happiness, positive energy, and comfort to every situation at Brewster. … He loved to share himself and was always there when a friend needed help. Alex’s incredible energy, smile, and warmth made him truly amazing to be around.” –Brad Appel ’89, former roommate “I went to Alex’s memorial service at his mother’s home in North Hampton, New Hampshire. Megan Boyle ’89 also attended. It was a wonderful, informal gathering, his close friends and family all together, remembering and sharing stories about Alex. We talked about the boy and the man. His partner, Adel, recounted her first meeting with Alex. She was walking her active Terrier when it began to rain, and she took shelter under the awning of Alex’s antique store in Portsmouth. Alex opened the door and invited her in out of the rain. Shaking her head, Adel refused, pointing out that her dog was too hyper for an antique shop. Alex responded, ‘It’s only stuff. Come on in.’ A man without pretension, but with a true heart and soul. I will miss my good friend Alex, a person I could always rely on to be there.” –Temple Peterson ’89
In Appreciation Charles “Hank” Spaulding By Martha Trepanier ‘83 On Thanksgiving Day 2011, the Brewster family lost a dear friend, Charles “Hank” Spaulding (P ’85). Spaulding, from Kennebunk Beach, Maine, was 84. The Spaulding family enrolled son Tom as a freshman member of the Class of 1985 and, as many families do, quickly became engaged with the community and Brewster’s vision for the future, helping the school evolve with annual and capital support. The Spaulding name is well known to Brewster and represents, in the words of former Headmaster David M. Smith, “an example of extraordinary partnership, in every sense of the word.”
In Memoriam Class of 1937 Jane (Smith) Piltz July 2, 2011 Cedar City, Nevada Class of 1945 Donald W. Tibbetts September 9, 2011 Woburn, Massachusetts Class of 1947 Nancy (Flanders) Buell October 2009 Miami, Florida Class of 1949 R. Conrad Poelman July 26, 2011 Moscow, Pennsylvania Class of 1950 Harold “Skip” Taylor January 5, 2012 Sun City, Arizona Class of 1957 Roger A. Leclerc Summer 2011 Ocala, Florida Class of 1961 Robert H. Berry February 5, 2012 Naples, Florida Class of 1962 Douglas C. Elliott November 23, 2011 Sebastian, Florida Class of 1989 F. Alexander Rogers December 7, 2011 Portsmouth, New Hampshire Class of 2000 William Archibald January 27, 2012 Morrisville, North Carolina Friends Dr. Jeanne H. Kenison January 13, 2012 Hampton, New Hampshire Charles “Hank” Spaulding (P’85) November 24, 2011 Kennebunk Beach, Maine
David M. Smith, Tom Spaulding ’85 and wife Mary, and Hank and Anne Spaulding at the Brewster Medal evening in January 2009.
Hank Spaulding and wife Anne have been quiet but loyal supporters. When championship jackets were needed when the budget had no funds, they were there. When additional scholarship aid was needed for a student, they were there; when a student center was needed within the Estabrook complex, again, the Spaulding family was there. Their generous support continued long after Tom had graduated – funding the Smith Center’s retractable turf – and the family’s support continues today. A civil engineer, Hank began his professional career designing and building bridges at Parsons Brinckerhoff. He then moved on to Cabot, Cabot & Forbes (CC&F) where he developed a 7,000-acre ranch in Laguna Niguel, California, into a residential town with a population of 30,000. At CC&F, he also helped develop some of Boston’s iconic downtown office towers and suburban industrial parks. In 1967, Hank co-founded Spaulding & Slye Corporation and went on to develop office properties in Boston, Washington, DC, Charlotte, North Carolina, and Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Hank was passionate about his work and had a lifelong devotion to contributing his time and energy to the communities and institutions close to him, including Brewster Academy. Since its early days, families have partnered with the Academy to provide students with a variety of learning opportunities to develop into and succeed as adults. At this special 125th year marker, we pause and reflect and gratefully say thank you to the Spauldings for being such extraordinary partners.
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History History History History
History Writing
Brewster’s
1899 Chemistry
125 Years: Ten Turning Points By Bob and Shirley Richardson
A
s we researched and later wrote The Brewster Story, we discovered a number of critical points in the school’s rich history where, had the board and principals and headmasters
responded differently at these crucial times, the school would likely have been weakened considerably and the likelihood of its continued existence questioned. Looking back, as we celebrate 125 years of history, several turning points or crossroads stand out and are worth reflection.
Lab
organized with dress dinner parties in The Estabrook followed by dancing. Looking ahead, the Academy acquired substantial acreage extending to the lake and along Main Street, the heart of the present-day Academy campus. Just 13 years later another defining event occurred which would change life on campus forever. The Great Fire in 1903 destroyed the Academic Building and shook the confidence of the board, faculty, and students. Amazingly, classes continued without interruption and eventually a new Academic Building and stronger programs emerged from those ashes. The school opened its new facility on September 11, 1905, with 133 students and eight teachers. Classes in elocution, music, and physical education were added to the curriculum, and room in the basement of the new building provided a rudimentary gymnasium. Chapel exercises were held each morning in the newly designed second floor multi-purpose meeting hall that provided space for the entire school community and, at times, the town of Wolfeboro to gather for various activities. Communication and cooperation between the school and town grew stronger.
The first defining moment in the history of Brewster came in 1887 with the appointment of Edwin Lord as principal, and with this appointment John Brewster’s dream of a quality college preparatory school to serve the students of his hometown began to come true. Working with trustees of John Brewster’s will, Principal Lord almost immediately began to recruit a faculty, design a curriculum, and plan a campus. An Academy Building, a four-story structure that included recitation rooms and a science laboratory, was ready in late 1890; it was followed by The Estabrook, Lord House, Kimball House, Sargent House (the old infirmary; not Sargent Hall), and Haines House. The curriculum was designed for college-bound students. Teams were fielded in basketball, baseball, and football. Social events were formally
46
BrewsterConnections – Spring 2012
Students relax in the Estabroo k living room, circa 1925
A World at War
unsupervised automobile usage, and promoted a courteous regard for the
Within 12 years the world was at war and the operation of a boarding
wishes of the school.
school campus became an extremely difficult task for administration, faculty, and the board of trustees. The town and school joined together
As the Depression set in, fewer boarding students applied for admission,
and published information about the efforts of the Red Cross, YMCA and
vacancies went unfilled, and funds from tuition decreased. Estabrook Hall
YWCA, food drives, liberty bond sales as well as announcements about
and Kimball House were the only two dorms, as Brown Hall had been
important speakers and the letters that arrived from graduates serving
closed due to lack of students.
overseas. Slogans of “Save Food,” “Do Your Bit,” and “Save Water” were seen and heard across campus. The girls gathered to sew and knit
This rapidly declining boarding population was troubling. Another
gloves, mittens, socks, and sweaters, and they rolled linen bandages for
concern was the high attrition rate of incoming freshmen who left school
the wounded. Young people had to face the reality of death with anguish
before graduating. Thus, in 1939, with declining enrollment, school
and bravery. Young male students left the classroom to enlist in the army,
facilities in disrepair, little funds for athletics, the realities of another world
and full enrollment became a challenge. Influenza, measles, and mumps
war looming, and the worry about fiscal responsibilities, for the first time,
epidemics were on the rise. Of four students who had gathered to play
tuition was charged for day students. A change in financial management
games on a Friday night, two had died from influenza by Monday morning.
of the school was imminent.
As the war ended, the trustees commissioned a bronze plaque in
A Second War
remembrance of the 116 male and four female students from Brewster
Another critical period in the school’s history arrived with World War II.
who had served their country. That plaque continues to hang in a
After the seventh of December 1941, life in Wolfeboro and Brewster would
prominent place in the Academic Building. School spirit was high after
never be the same. The Brewster yearbook records that 231 local boys had
the war with sports competitions and annual plays and dances.
enlisted or were drafted into the armed services. On campus Brown Hall became the control center for the Civilian Defense Committee, the Civil
The happy opening of the 1919 school year turned to sadness, however,
Air Patrol, and the headquarters for obtaining ration stamps for food
with the deaths of two prominent, original members of the board of
and gasoline. Students were involved in Savings Stamps, Savings Bonds,
trustees who had long served Brewster so well: William Brewster (John’s
planting Victory Gardens, and participating in wartime clubs.
son) and Arthur Estabrook. As the war ended the presence of GIs as students became significant. In The next turning point came during the 1930s when the country faced a
1946 the school enrollment was 279 students, 86 of whom were veterans.
downturn in the economy, which impacted Brewster as well. Maintenance
Classrooms were overcrowded, and combat-hardened GIs became
delays left academic and dormitory areas in disrepair, and unbecoming
restless and bored with school routine, creating problems for students
behavior was reflected in some students. A new document, “The Code
and teachers alike. A tension developed between the members of the
for Brewster Students,” stipulated home study hours, approved school
senior class and the GIs who were unfamiliar with school traditions. On a
and town organization memberships, required attendance at churches,
positive note, however, all athletic teams prospered with the contributions
restricted unsupervised night travel outside the home, curtailed
of the GIs. Soon the GIs would move on and the ever-growing need for a
Commencement 1939
Bobcat Nation’s first tennis courts, 1896
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47
multipurpose athletic and recreational facility would be the next turning
for a competitive
point for the Academy.
college preparatory
Brewster’s First Gymnasium With most of the concerns over GIs resolved, attention focused on physical education facilities. Two rooms in the basement of the main building and a makeshift outdoor basketball/tennis court area, usable only in fall and spring, could not meet the school’s growing needs. Pressure on the board to act on plans for a Brewster recreational center and museum grew. After a tremendous fund-raising effort on the part of the board, town, and student body, the long-anticipated construction of a new gymnasium/ recreational building became a reality in 1954. The new Rogers Gymnasium not only enhanced the athletic program, it freed up space in other buildings for art and more academic programs. The growth of music, dramatics and choral work, and a vocational training program
school. The first two headmasters, Wilfred Paro and C. Richard Vaughan, brought such experience and successively laid the foundation for the future. Instituting customs and traditions presented a major challenge, as did modifying the school program to
The Kenison Lib
rary opened in th
e Wilson Center
in 1995
seemed to explode.
more effectively
The new building further strengthened the bond between the Academy
new direction in delivering curriculum, and the acquisition of Bearce
and town. School spirit soared and within two years the school won the New England championship in basketball and women’s basketball began. Enrollment was high but another turning point lurked on the horizon.
meet the needs of students. Even with expanded athletics, a Hall, enrollment and the ever-present need for more effective fund raising continued to be major challenges for many years and even threatened, again, the existence of the school during the late sixties and early seventies.
Gaining Independence
A major step in overcoming this threat was taken in 1974 when the board
In the early 1960s, with increased enrollment, Brewster Academy faced the
of trustees appointed the youngest headmaster in the history of the
challenge of becoming a public school or returning to its roots as a college
school – teacher and former dean, David M. Smith. As headmaster, Smith
preparatory boarding school.
immediately faced a shortfall of almost half the annual budget, and 90
On opening day in 1960, 332 students, including 88 boarding students, arrived. This brought enrollment of the average class size from 15 to 25 or 30, which was cause for alarm. By 1963 enrollment was 366 and overcrowding was critical. After considerable deliberation, the idea of serving as a regional high school was rejected by the board of trustees. In 1964 when Kingswood Regional High School opened its doors one mile up the street, Brewster’s opening day enrollment dropped to 132: 96 boarding students and 36 day students. To increase boarding enrollment, the board decided to build a new dormitory, Sargent Hall, and seek greater numbers of postgraduates, as the very survival of Brewster Academy was at stake. To continue John Brewster’s vision and commitment, the school would have to pursue a new direction, a new beginning. It was one of the most difficult challenges the school has ever faced, and the Academy encountered great obstacles along the way. It would be many years before enrollment would begin to increase as families began to see the value of Brewster’s independent education.
Looking for Leadership To reestablish itself as an independent college preparatory boarding school, the trustees realized the leader of the Academy must be someone with boarding school experience and wisdom in order to develop the infrastructure of academic, athletic, and personal standards needed
48
BrewsterConnections – Spring 2012
percent of the school’s line of credit had been expended. Enrollment was below expectations, the Admission Office demanded new leadership and direction, faculty morale was low, and the physical plant needed a comprehensive facelift. Smith led the Academy through three decades of continuous improvements in school facilities, in the depth and breadth of the faculty, in the talent and diversity of the student body, in financial stability, and ultimately in development of the Brewster Model curriculum. With the Brewster Model firmly and successfully in place, Smith’s successor Head of School Dr. Michael E. Cooper would evolve and expand program components to ensure that Brewster students are prepared for the challenges of the 21st century. These initiatives included teaching the habits of mind, character education, project-based learning, and introducing a school-wide emotional literacy program. These initiatives responded to the challenges of teaching and learning in the 21st century, not only in the academic program but in every facet of school operations. With its forward-looking, innovative mindset, Brewster remains at the forefront of secondary education, a position that provides a solid foundation for the Academy’s response to the continuing challenges of our rapidly changing world. Note: Read more about these turning points and the full history of the Academy in The Brewster Story: A Definitive History of Brewster Academy available in the Campus Store, local stores, and at https://www.brewsteracademy.org/thebrewsterstory
STRENGTH IN NUMBERS ALUMNI PARTICIPATION CHALLENGE In a class participation project, photography instructor Steve Burgess captured this image of four students writing in the air with cell phones. The light from the first two phones is from the phones’ LCD screens, while the other six phones were set on flashlight mode. The writers are: Jessica Choi ’15 (Chungbuk, Korea), Skyler Sherman ’14 (Sunapee, New Hampshire), Samantha Bryan ’13 (Sanford, Maine), and Brendan Quirk ’12 (Portsmouth, New Hampshire), who came up with the idea.
Brewster Academy 2011-2012 Board of Trustees Daniel T. Mudge, Chair (Tapley-Ann ’98, Ashley ’02)
Karen W. Fix (Will ’11, Keenan ’13)
Leslie N. H. MacLeod, Vice Chair (Todd ’97)
Peter Ford ’80
Roy C. Ballentine, Treasurer (Brian ’97, Susan ’94) Douglas H. Greeff, Secretary (Hilary ’11) Michael Appe
Michael Keys (Matthew ’04) Barbara Naramore Arthur O. Ricci Estate Trustee The Reverend Nancy Spencer Smith Estate Trustee
What if you could give Brewster $100,000?
You can!
Alumni support is at the heart of every great school. Last year, 8 percent of alumni made a gift to Brewster. A group of alumni and parents believes we can do better, and they feel so strongly about it that they have issued a challenge to double alumni participation this year.
Steven R. Webster (Brooke ’08, Tori ’11)
If at least 600 alumni make a gift to Brewster this year, a group of challenge donors will contribute $100,000 to the Annual Fund.
Candace Crawshaw ’64
Trustee Emeriti
These donors are sending a simple but powerful message – your participation matters.
Claudine Curran (Alex ’06, Gen ’11)
Walter N. “Rink” DeWitt ’54 (Kate ’86)
George J. Dohrmann III (George ’05, Geoffrey ’12)
P. Fred Gridley ’53 (Deborah ’81)
Stephen C. Farrell Sr. (Stephen Jr. ’12)
Grant M. Wilson (Grant ’87, Kirsten ’88)
C. Richard Carlson Estate Trustee David L. Carlson ’54 Arthur W. Coviello Jr.
Make your gift online today at www.brewsteracademy.org/Strength-In-Numbers-Challenge or call 603.569.7485
Brewster Academy 80 Academy Drive Wolfeboro, NH 03894
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Parents of alumni: If this magazine is addressed to your son or daughter who no longer maintains a permanent address at your home, please e-mail us at alumninews@brewsteracademy.org with his or her new address.
EXPECT TO LEARN, EXPECT TO HAVE FUN
Brewster Academy Summer Session It’s a school It’s a camp It’s a blend of academics and adventure recreation To learn more or reserve your place on the lake, contact the Office of Summer Programs at Brewster Academy. Summer Programs Office • 603-569-7155 • summer@brewsteracademy.org