BrewsterConnections, Spring 2012

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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

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

Facebook

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

www.brewsteracademy.org

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!

www.brewsteracademy.org

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

www.brewsteracademy.org

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.”

www.brewsteracademy.org

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.

www.brewsteracademy.org

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.

www.brewsteracademy.org

45

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

www.brewsteracademy.org

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