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BrewsterConnections Fall 2012
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
My Best Self
Inside:
Kai Armstrong on Becoming Her Best Self Girls’ Soccer Wins New England Championship
People Make a Difference
Nilsen Arias ’14 (Quito, Ecuador)
Brewster Academy 2012-2013 Board of Trustees Daniel T. Mudge, Chair (Tapley-Ann ’98, Ashley ’02)
David Hadley (Olivia ’12, Juliet ’15)
Arthur W. Coviello Jr., Vice Chair
Michael Keys (Matthew ’04)
Roy C. Ballentine, Treasurer (Brian ’97, Susan ’94) Douglas H. Greeff, Secretary (Hilary ’11) Ronn Bronzetti ’92 C. Richard Carlson Estate Trustee
Leslie N. H. MacLeod (Todd ’97) Barbara Naramore (Maya ’16) Arthur O. Ricci Estate Trustee
David L. Carlson ’54
The Reverend Nancy Spencer Smith Estate Trustee
Candace Crawshaw ’64
Steven R. Webster (Brooke ’08, Tori ’11)
George J. Dohrmann III (George ’05, Geoffrey ’12) Karen W. Fix (Will ’11, Keenan ’13)
Trustee Emeritus
Gabrielle “Bri” J. Gatta ’05 President, Alumni Association
P. Fred Gridley ’53 (Deborah ’81)
Bruce and Shadow Gorrill were always so approachable and always willing to help. Bruce for AP Biology and Shadow’s research help in the library – they were both a great resource throughout my four years. They made me feel confident, prepared, and challenged (in a good way). Along with how incredible they both are outside of Brewster – hockey, traveling, and everything else they do – I’m so grateful to know them! – Bri Gatta ’05
Visit brewsteracademy.org/HonorYourMentor/givenow to make your gift and share your stories.
BrewsterConnections Fall 2012
Head of School Dr. Michael E. Cooper
Inside 2 Head Lines
Director of Admission and External Affairs
Lynne M. Palmer
Editor, Director of Communications Marcia Eldredge
Contributors Dr. Michael Cooper, Marcia Eldredge, Helen Hamilton, Beth Hayes ’81, Peter Hess, Matt Hoopes, Rachael Jeffers ’05, Matt Lawlor, Daniel T. Mudge, Bob Richardson, Shirley Richardson, Sally Smith
Photography Steve Allen, Brewster Academy Archives, Johnny Bivera, Marcia Eldredge, Maria Found, Beth Hayes ’81, BG Hodges ’66, Kristy Kerin, Scott Proposki, Phil Stiles
Our Best Selves
4 My Best Self A student’s perspective
6 Palmer Honored for Success in Admissions Field
Lynne Palmer receives Bretnall Award
7 It’s Time to Moodle
Comprehensive tool complements Brewster’s learning initiatives
8 Brewster’s 192nd Commencement
Graduates encouraged to be their best selves
Page 8
14 What’s for Dinner?
Meet Brewster’s executive chef and find out what’s hot in the Estabrook
16 Educators Take Note of Brewster Programs 23 Another Banner Season for Soccer Girls
Team captures New England Championship
24 Rolling Out a New Future for Field Sports
The grass just got greener for Brewster athletes
26 Return to Campus
Highlights of Reunion 2012
Page 24
28 Hoopla: 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.
Matt Hoopes Looks Beyond the Ballot at Alumni in Public Policy
42 In Appreciation
Two trustees emeritus remembered
48 Honor Your Mentor
Who Will You Honor?
Departments 18 Newsmakers 20 On the Road 34 Class Notes 41 In Memoriam 44 Writing Brewster’s History
Page 23
W
ith the fall trimester behind us, there is time for pause and reflection. Students have worked hard, completed exams, and are settling into their second trimester. Freshmen and other new students have become familiar with the Brewster
program and know that their growth and success are the priority of our faculty. Seniors have completed first rounds of college applications, a big relief no doubt. Another successful sports season concluded (with New England championship and Lakes Region titles earned) and a new season is upon us, and a new season is upon us, and we celebrated the opening of our latest facility – the turf surface on Brown Field. We’ve even had our first snowfall and thus the winter trimester is
Our
Best Selves
fast underway. One point of emphasis that the entire school has been focusing on this year has been in the introduction of the concept of being your best self. The concept is such an integral component of The RULER Approach, and the anchor called meta moment, that we have been devoting quite a bit of time and attention to training students in its use. It is one of the key skills in teaching students how to regulate and understand the impact that emotions have on their decision making, interpersonal relationships, and academic and personal success. While more information on meta moment and the concept of being your best self may be found on our website, for purposes of what you will find in the following pages of this issue of Connections, the best way to characterize the concept within the context of our emotional literacy skill development training is to think of it as a way for one to visualize how they would ideally like to respond to an emotional trigger versus how they would normally respond, and to internalize why and how these two different ways of responding can lead to a more positive response to issues confronted on a day-to-day basis. The interview
2
BrewsterConnections – Fall 2012
“One point of emphasis that the entire school has been focusing on this year has been in the introduction of the concept of being your best self.”
with Kai Armstrong ’14 (Cornwall, Vermont) is a great example of what I am
TV, and two faculty members are honored for growth and excellence.
talking about. Our parents, alumni, and friends ensured that Brewster had a recordWhen we couple the concept of best self with what we espouse in the Brewster
breaking (in attendance and numbers) annual auction so much so that we
Principle (Respect, integrity, service: Serve yourself and others with your best
can actually say – our best yet.
in all you do.), we fervently believe that what we are offering our students is a tremendous set of skills that will not only adequately prepare them for
And, sadly, we say good-bye to two trustee emeriti who gave nothing but
their futures, but will do so in a way that positions them, by all definitions, for
their best selves to help make Brewster Academy the successful school that
personal success.
it is today.
Running through the pages of this issue of Connections you will meet members
In the above, we acknowledge our own for being their best selves.
of the Brewster community who are the embodiment of the Brewster Principle and the concept of best self. While being one’s best self is an important concept
Meanwhile others have taken note of our best selves. Since the spring,
within the context and parameters of RULER, the concept also extends beyond
some of my Brewster colleagues and I have presented at three national
how it is used to help students regulate and manage their emotions and extends
education conferences on different Brewster programs that have caught
into areas of how one chooses to conduct one’s life. When married with the
the attention of educators. Our Director of Admission and External Affairs
precepts expressed in the Brewster Principle, as you will see in the following
Lynne Palmer received an award for her success and dedication to the field
pages, being one’s best self can take on many meanings.
of independent school admissions.
In “What’s for Dinner”, we open the cupboard and look at how Brewster’s
These are just some of the examples of the Brewster community being
new dining services department is bringing the highest quality ingredients
their best selves and living the Brewster Principle.
into the kitchen to turn out the best (most nutritious, tasty, and creative) dishes to sustain 360 growing adolescents as well as the greater
But we won’t rest on our accomplishments. We have much to do.
community. The list of members of the community being their best selves continues in Newsmakers – an alumnus finds his best self despite life altering career plans, an alumna competes for the coveted Top Chef designation on reality
Dr. Michael E. Cooper, Head of School
www.brewsteracademy.org
3
Kai Armstrong Talks About Her Best Self and Emotional Literacy By Marcia Eldredge
“How we handle our emotions has a huge impact on our decisions, and research has shown that emotion skills are integral to personal, social, and academic success.” – Dr. Marc Brackett, lead developer of The RULER Approach to Social and Emotional Learning at Yale University.
4
BrewsterConnections – Fall 2012
K
nowing your best self helps you better respond to situations that trigger an emotional experience. Imaging your best self when these experiences
occur, helps you choose an effective strategy (or avoid choosing an ineffective strategy) when responding.
Here Kai Armstrong ’14 (Cornwall, Vermont) reflects on
her best self and other components of Brewser’s emotional literacy program. My Best Self For me my best self is taking a situation that might be negative and trying to find the positive so that I don’t spread my negativity. My Best Self Goals • If I’m in a really good mood, try to pass
having a good week … it helps me realize
it on to someone else;
why I’m having a bad week; it helps me
I really admire people
make goals.
who have the ability
to make other people
Reflecting on a Dorm Charter
feel good with how
“Creating a charter is really important.
they’re feeling.
Unless there are boundaries you can’t
expect to be respected unless people know
• Stay focused
what that means. There are simple rules
like if you’re going into someone’s room,
• In the midst of trying
knock on the door; write your name on
to be your best self,
it’s important to remember who you really are. Some people think that being your best self is being the perfect student … but really
your best self is who you are in the best form, the best form of you.
stuff in the fridge if you don’t want people
to take it; it’s common courtesy. You would think it’s really obvious but sometimes it’s not, and so it’s important to lay down those rules in a
charter so everyone shares how they expect to be treated and what they expect of people who are living with them.
What is a Meta-Moment to You? A meta-moment is basically an adult timeout. Last year in English there was a situation where I was really annoyed so I removed myself from
the classroom for a minute or two just so I wouldn’t react negatively at
my teacher – a meta-moment is putting yourself in a position where you recognize that you need time to yourself to think ‘is this really a big deal or can I just move on?’ The outcome ended up fine but taking the metamoment was more productive than me arguing with my teacher.
As an example, in the morning, some people get up later than other
people and some people are louder in the morning because they are
‘morning people’ so when we were doing our charter we talked about
when we are supposed to be quiet and how to be respectful of the people who are still sleeping. Basically it’s just really important to set some ground rules.
Why do you think Brewster feels this is important for students? Meta-Moment: the process for prolonging and managing the “space in time” between an emotional stimulus and response in order to promote personal wellbeing and both academic and professional growth. – The RULER Approach
I think it’s important for Brewster to incorporate emotional literacy
because they are trying to teach us to grow up and live [and work] in a way so that we know how to get along with other people and respect them. What it boils down to is respect.
A Weekly Reflection Each Friday during advisory, students reflect on their week in a Weekly report, which is shared with their parents. A Weekly has four areas: current grades, BMP record, My Best Self Goals, and This Week in My Life. Students reflect on each area, and parents are encouraged to respond.
Hear Kai talk about how she applies
I think the intention of the weekly is to reflect on yourself … for me if
brewsteracademy.org/emotionalliteracy
emotional literacy to her Brewster experience:
I’m feeling something and I can talk about it; it helps me reflect on who
my best self is. The weekly reflection is more beneficial when you are not
www.brewsteracademy.org
5
Palmer Honored for Success in Admissions Field By Marcia Eldredge
L
ynne Palmer, director of admission and external affairs at
Brewster, was recently honored for her success in and commitment to independent school admissions. At the annual meeting of the
Secondary School Admission Test and Secondary School Admission Test Board (SSATB) in Chicago in September, Palmer was presented with
the Bretnall Award. Named for distinguished educator and first SSATB Program Director William B. Bretnall, the award is given annually to a
leader and educator who has made significant contributions to the field of independent school admissions.
A few forums where Lynne has helped lead the charge include New Hampshire boarding school fairs, New Hampshire consultant tours, and New Hampshire receptions
Ed Cooper, head of school at the Wolfeboro Camp School, offered the
following remarks in his introduction of Palmer at the SSATB awards presentation.
“Lynne arrived at Brewster in the summer of 1987. Though she has held many different roles within the Wolfeboro and Brewster community,
she always kept an active foot in the Admission Office. She appreciates that the Admission Office is where the connection starts with Brewster
at independent educational consultant conferences, he noted. “In addition, Lynne and her staff have hosted a myriad of professional
families, and enjoys the opportunity to be a part of that new relationship.
development events
“As she starts her 25th year at Brewster, she notes that she is thankful
campus and she often
make a difference.
conferences. And,
“During the past 25 years, our recipient has more than made her mark on
continues to be an effervescent and omnipresent presence in the world
every day for the quality of life at Brewster and the great accountability to
also [has] made a continual impact on the health and vitality of private school admissions in New Hampshire, New England, and beyond,” Cooper shared.
professional endurance. Beyond the number of
years however, it is the quality of her leadership, the effectiveness of her professional instincts but most of all, it is her contagious enthusiasm for
advancing independent schools that merits this recognition today.
“At Brewster and on every level, Lynne Palmer’s enthusiasm for the sophisticated details of
admissions, her passion for student success, and
presents at national thankfully, Lynne
the enrollment success and strong reputation of Brewster Academy. She
“Few admissions directors have our recipient’s
on the Brewster
of admissions. I am most confident that few of us, if any, possess greater devotion to the admissions profession and to our respective schools than does Lynne,” Cooper concluded.
“It is the quality of her leadership, the effectiveness of her professional instincts, and her contagious enthusiasm for advancing independent schools that merits this recognition.”
her zeal for institutional advancement trump the numbers by a long shot.”
Cooper continued, “A high profile proponent of professional development
Lynne has forged her success in the admissions field while she and husband TJ Palmer, a Brewster history teacher and coach, raised a family of three schoolaged children – now all Brewster graduates. “SSATB presenting Lynne with this award could not have picked a more deserving recipient,” said Dr. Michael E. Cooper, Brewster’s head of school. “Not only is Lynne dedicated to her work at Brewster, she truly is committed to making sure that what she does for the field of admission adds value to a family’s experience no matter where they are
applying. She brings a depth and breadth of experience to admission that few can equal.”
efforts, Lynne has continually been a champion of professional
Mike Cooper and Palmer were at the Chicago meeting to present the
visibility – particularly in Northern New England.”
Survival?”
collaboration; she has often served as a catalyst for independent school
6
BrewsterConnections – Fall 2012
workshop “Systematic Planning: A Necessary Evil or an Imperative for
In the Classroom:
modular • ob j ect oriented • dynamic • learning • environment By Peter Hess
T
he start of the 2012-2013 school year was highlighted by the launch
Economics teacher Mike Jacobs has been an early adopter of Moodle and
Moodle has become very popular around the world with over 60
into his classes. Here are Mike’s reflections on Moodle:
of Moodle, a new learning management system at Brewster.
million users worldwide, as an invaluable tool that assists educators in delivering academic courses to students through dynamic web sites.
Moodle was selected after an exhaustive search for a comprehensive tool that could supplement our custom Brewster Portal database. Because Moodle is Open Source software (i.e., software usually developed
the talents of our onsite database developer, Wes
Matchett. This means that we can take advantage of the wide variety of educational tools that Moodle has to
offer, while still having database support for the parts
of our program that are unique to Brewster such as the
Recognition Program and the production of transcripts that reflect our multi-leveled classrooms.
“Moodle has helped me evolve as a teacher, and it has given me the ability to do a lot of things with the curriculum that I didn’t even consider a few years ago. The advantages that I see for students and for teachers are
many. Students no longer are merely consumers of education; they have also become producers.
collaboratively and available in source code form), it
is able to integrate seamlessly with the Portal through
has been at the forefront of finding exciting ways to incorporate Moodle
“Incorporating multimedia into lesson plans has become the norm, and I think that student engagement is up.”
In 2011-2012 a team of Brewster teachers trained in
Moodle piloted the software within 10 different courses. This allowed us
to test how Moodle could support our curriculum structure, how reliable it would be on our network, and how well students would acclimate to
it. The pilot was highly successful and provided confidence that we could move forward by introducing it to the entire faculty.
These Moodle experts used in-service sessions to train faculty in the basics of how to build their courses in Moodle, which they did over the summer to build their courses in Moodle, and we are pleased to report that 100
“Glossaries, forums, and wikis have been helpful in involving the students in an interactive way. Incorporating multimedia into lesson plans
has become the norm, and I think that student engagement is up. I have made screencasts of solutions to simple math problems, and
embedded them within my lessons. Students can return to them on their own time, and at their own pace.
“Another great advantage is that students that are not in class can get all
of the material easily. It is much easier for them to get caught up, because
they don’t have to rely on having a face-to-face conversation with me. On the days that I have had to be out, my students have been able to easily access the lesson plan and any materials they need.
“Learning Moodle has been a pretty labor intensive endeavor, but it has been well worth it.”
percent of Brewster’s faculty are using Moodle this year. In the world of
educational technology adoption, this is a remarkable feat and testament to the commitment that Brewster teachers have for creating a unified learning community.
What the Moodle adoption means for our students is that they can now
access their course materials and assignments anywhere and anytime they wish. This will be a great benefit for students who miss classes because
of illness. Moodle is designed to support ways for students to construct knowledge together and thus offers a variety of tools, such as forums and wikis, to engage students in collaborative learning activities. It’s
especially useful when students are collaborating on projects outside of the classroom from different locations. The grade book function offers more options for teachers to provide students with feedback on their assignments, which is invaluable to the learning process.
www.brewsteracademy.org
7
Commencement Speakers Encourage Graduates to Be Their Best Selves
Seek guidance through mentors, live a life of integrity, and make tomorrow more purpose driven than today By Marcia Eldredge
T
he sun shined on Brewster’s
He also spoke of his father teaching him to use change as a catalyst to open
192nd Commencement day
doors and discover new opportunities. He shared that his acceptance to
on May 26 as 116 students
Brewster took him out of his comfort zone. “Arriving at Brewster I was unsure
received diplomas. As is recent tradition,
of how beneficial the change would be to me. However, I quickly discovered
a Scottish bagpiper led the processional
that embracing change could be exciting, edifying, and illuminating. The
of administrators, faculty, and the Class
smaller classes, the personalized teaching approach, and the interesting class
of 2012 into the Smith Center. After the
environment reinvented the idea of ‘school’ for me.
investiture of Head of School Mike Cooper
Raymond Soriano
and the invocation by The Reverend Sue
“My attendance at Brewster taught me that although I did not always know the
Poulin, Richard O’Brien delivered the
direction I was going, by adhering to my father’s advice, I knew I would always be
salutatorian address.
walking on solid ground.”
In his remarks, O’Brien paid homage to
In concluding his address to classmates, O’Brien said “Although we, at times, may
his father who, despite not having active
be tempted to be satisfied with what we have, and what we have done, above
parents in his life and having navigated
all, I encourage you Class of 2012 to continue pushing forward and be as your
many of his younger years alone, has
fathers.”
found success. O’Brien encouraged
JaKarr S
ampson ,M and Jaso itch McGary, n Smith
his classmates not to discount the
The Class of 2012’s valedictorian Rebecca Marisseau spoke to her classmates
importance of mentors and to seek
next, encouraging them to live a life of integrity and faith. She noted that the
guidance from those wiser or more
Class of 2012 was graduating during the school’s 125th anniversary and just as
experienced as they travel along their
Brewster continues to evolve so did the Class of 2012 during her four years. They
road to independence.
were the first project-based learning class and saw the basketball team earn two national championships, a first for the Academy.
“Although today we enter into a new realm of independence and self discovery,
Marisseau also encouraged her class to define their own success. “Whatever it is,
I implore you Class of 2012 not to walk
define it and do your best, your way.”
alone. Although, my father navigated
elissa on and M Lottie Bart Lawlor
Preye O
kara and
8
family
through life without guides, he taught me
Following these student remarks, 14 commencement awards were presented
that it is important to accept help.”
(See page 10).
Patrick and Abigail Keelty
BrewsterConnections – Fall 2012
Murray and Addie Kate Silvia
Bruce Ha wkins ’01 ,M Dan Mud ge, The R ike Cooper, ev. Sue P oulin
After the presentation of awards, board of trustee president Dan Mudge
“Remember that you will be defined
introduced this year’s commencement speaker, 2001 Brewster graduate Bruce
by how you travel down the path,
Hawkins ’01.
not by the stumbles you make. … Find your path of purpose and you
While at Brewster, Hawkins was president of the student body during his senior
will never have a wasted step.”
year. He credits Brewster with helping to develop his leadership skills and with igniting his passion to help others. Hawkins is a graduate of Vanderbilt
Following Hawkins’ speech, the HOWL
University and the Howard University School of Law and is the author of two
Chorus performed “And We Shined,” a
autobiographies. Two and half years ago he opened his own law practice near his
song written by HOWL member Olivia
home in Stone Mountain, Georgia.
Hadley ’12 for Commencement.
Throughout his journey, Hawkins says he simply “aims to make today better than
Then, smiling graduates accepted their
yesterday and dream of a tomorrow more purpose driven than today,” a theme
diplomas; Mike Cooper congratulated
that resonated in his remarks to graduates.
graduates in their native languages;
ook ffrey C
mith,
Max S
d, Geo eisbor W n ia r
B
HOWL led all those in attendance in “We live in a world that seems so focused on dividing us, yet the only thing that
singing the school song, “Emblem’s
really makes us different are ideas. I want to share an idea today.”
Divine;” The Rev. Poulin delivered the benediction; caps were tossed, and the
“There was a time when someone held you in their arms and they nurtured you,
piper led Brewster’s newest alumni
and they believed in you – before you believed in yourself.”
out of the Smith Center and into the congratulatory arms of faculty, family,
He went on, “then you believed in yourself but there is a big change that happens
and friends.
from growing out of an innocent childhood – where imagination reigns – to
Vilhelm Nilsson
adulthood … and that is that we become afraid to fail. I’m not sure why, but
Visit us online to see which colleges
we do. … and when we do this, we sacrifice the extraordinary for the ordinary,”
and universities graduates are
Hawkins said.
attending: brewsteracademy.org/collegechoices
He implored graduates to believe in themselves and not to be afraid of failure. “I need you not to change. When I was here, I was just a student with big dreams. The teachers here led me to see those dreams. I feel I was guided to law school.” “I know that you’re great. We come from the same stock, taught by many of the same teachers, but you will only be as great as you believe you are.”
Jordan Jo h
nson an
Than a Hanna Skelley and Amy Misera
ikael and
ns M ent with so Nora Clem
Kris ’06
Commencement Speaker Bruce Hawkins ’01
d Allie H ughes
pat V ic and hienlux, Jaruw C an A hris Brow mtaw n ong ’87,
www.brewsteracademy.org
9
2012 Commencement Awards
Reflections at the Ivy Address
Athletic Director’s Award • Brady Palmer • Hanna Skelley The Headmaster’s Prize • Rebecca Marisseau The Postgraduate Award • Thanapat Vichienlux Faculty Service Award • Lottie Barton Faculty Service Award • Brady Palmer
The traditional Ivy Address marked the opening of the Commencement celebrations on the eve of graduation. With a packed Anderson Hall, the Ivy League Orchestra, under the direction of Chris Nourse, began the ceremony with a prelude that included Music for the Royal Fireworks by George Frideric Handel. Following a welcome from Head of School Mike Cooper
Ronald “Buzzy” Dore Memorial Award • JaKarr Sampson
and introductions from Academic Dean Marilyn Shea, the top academically
Jill Carlson Memorial Award • Amy Misera
ranked postgraduate, Thanapat Vichienlux (Chonburi, Thailand), and the
Faculty “Growth Achievement” • Nicola Bernardini de Pace Mabel Cate Tarr Award • Byung Koo Kang David Sirchis School Service Award • Hung-Yi “Kenith” Chang Arthur J. Mason Foundation Award • Mitchell McGary Burtis F. Vaughan Award • Kate Silvia Arthur M. Hurlin Award • Rebecca Marisseau To learn more about these awards, visit: brewsteracademy.org/commencementawards
third academically ranked senior, Lottie Barton (Kenai, Alaska), offered reflective remarks to graduates, their families, and faculty. At the conclusion of the Address, senior prefects Evan Cohn (Dublin, Ohio) and Marshall Lee (Seoul, South Korea) announced the senior class gift to the Academy: $2,500 to be put toward the new dormitory furnishings in Sargent 1. Finally, Shea presented the senior prefects with an ivy plant – a lasting and living symbol of the graduating class. The ivy was planted in the gardens around the Academic Building where it commingles with the ivy of previous classes.
Juliana
Emerso
n and M
Ivy speakers Thanapat Vichienlux and Lottie Barton stand with Mike Cooper on the Senior Patio, comprised of the individually designed bricks of seniors from the Class of 2012 and previous classes.
organ R o
binette
The Class of 2012 by the Numbers 116 - number of graduates 47 - number of graduates who held leadership positions 46 - number of lifers 31 - number of graduates who will play sports in college 8 - number of graduates who left behind at least one sibling at Brewster
10
BrewsterConnections – Fall 2012
Mike Cooper with senior prefects Marshall Lee and Evan Cohn after the presentation of the senior class ivy.
Regional Alumni Chapters Return to “Brewster” By Beth Hayes ‘81
O
n a hot summer day in July a group
of alumni from the Lakes Region and
beyond met at the Pinckney Boathouse
to lay the foundation for the first regional chapter – the Lakes Region Alumni Chapter. Candace Crawshaw ’64, who splits her time between
Sarasota, Florida, and Wolfeboro, inspired the idea of this local alumni chapter. When in Wolfeboro, Candace is committed to spending quality time with her Brewster family, friends, and former classmates. Working with the Alumni Office,
Candace brought her vision to life with the help of other local alumni.
Almost immediately the group established two
events for September, kicking off with a guided tour of historic gems in nearby Effingham. The
group boarded a Brewster microbus from campus for the tour, created and narrated by Effingham
historian Erik Jones ’93. The group then reflected
on their morning over lunch at an Ossipee Village restaurant.
The second event was a breakfast gathering in the Estabrook followed by a student-guided tour of the Academic Building. Although these types of
events occur at Reunion, it was especially fun for alumni to visit the dining hall and Academic Building when they were bustling with students.
Regional chapters serve to make local connections among Brewster
alumni, parents, students, and friends. Throughout the country, and
around the world, there are pockets of alumni and friends who share a
Brewster bond. Life is full, we all get busy, and folks often don’t see each other until they gather for Reunion in Wolfeboro and many just don’t want to wait another year or for that special reunion year to see their
South to New York We looked next to the Big Apple to plant the seeds for the New York Area Regional Chapter. A brainstorming evening was held in Manhattan in mid October to establish goals, leadership, and an events calendar for the New York Area Regional Chapter. A previously established event took place on October 13 – a day of community service with an organization called New York Cares. “Team Brewster” joined 6,000 New Yorkers to help revitalize 90 public schools, painting murals and classrooms in a Brooklyn school all while making a difference with some familiar faces.
former classmates.
In early November, a Meet and Greet Brunch was held at Northeastern
The cornerstone of regional chapters will be the leadership and
the Boston area. The group established goals and leaders and discussed
involvement of our alumni living in these areas, with Brewster’s Alumni Office supporting the planning and promotional efforts of chapters. Examples of chapter events may include:
Social – comedy club, boat cruise, wine tasting, happy hour
Academic – faculty lectures, seminars, luncheons, guided tours Athletic – professional and Brewster athletic competitions Networking – career connections and alumni speakers
University with Brewster alumni who are working or attending college in events for the Boston Area Regional Chapter. Chicago and Washington, DC, chapters also are in the works. These chapters are about alumni connecting with each other and sharing their Brewster bond, without requiring a trip to Wolfeboro. Although we are always ready for and happy to greet you on your return to campus, we
Community service – local volunteer projects
want to help you make Brewster connections from afar.
Promotional – school fairs, gatherings for school counselors and
For more information on Brewster regional chapters, please contact Beth
Cultural – art museum/zoo/garden tours, symphony events, music festivals consultants, admissions gatherings, campaign events, phonathons
Hayes ’81 at beth_hayes@brewsteracademy.org or 603-569-7133.
www.brewsteracademy.org
11
Using Composition in Photography
Anna DiMaggio ’15 (Westford, Massachusetts)
Stand Tall, Sam Kiley ’16 (Wolfeboro)
Photographers use well thought-out
and purposeful techniques to make their
photographs more interesting. Balancing
objects in a shot, framing the photo, choosing an interesting point of view, using symmetry, or using the rule of thirds are important
composition techniques to think about when getting that final shot. For the last project of fall trimester our photography students set
out to capture their own photographs using
these principles. Having already mastered the manual settings for good photography and
learning how to take photo pictorials, this is
the next natural step to learning the concepts involved in professional photography.
Compositional elements can take a good
photo to a great photo and with this project our students showed us some remarkable results. – Steve Burgess, Multimedia Teacher
Golden Autumn, Amy Chen ’14 (Guangdong, China) Chris Rizzo ’14 (Groton, Massachusetts)
Brown Hall, Jordan St. Peter ’15 (Moultonborough, New Hampshire)
12
BrewsterConnections – Fall 2012
Outer Bark, Jose Cojab Sacal ’16 (Mexico City, Mexico)
Pillars of the “Ac”, Sam Peffer ’16 (Newburyport, Massachusetts)
Brick Work, Vincent Reichheld ’15 (Wolfeboro)
Front Row View of the KPAC, Danny Roberts ’16 (Wolfeboro)
Bryn Murray ’15 (Rowayton, Connecticut)
Kolby McKenzie ’16 (Alton, New Hampshire)
Constellation, Kyzer Gardiola ’13 (Ras Tanura, Saudi Arabia)
Parents: Save the Date Spring Student Showcase Friday, April 26 and Saturday, April 27 A few showcase highlights: “Talent in the House”, Performing Arts Concert Academic Team Open House • Athletic Contests • Visual Arts Show
www.brewsteracademy.org
13
What’s for Dinner?
Delicious, Nutritious Meals are Always on the Menu at the Estabrook By Marcia Eldredge
E
ach day Executive Chef Chris Dill and his culinary team serve
1,200 meals in the Estabrook Dining Hall – that’s 8,400 meals a week!
Dill’s team includes 14 full-time and seven part-time staff as well as a
separate 12-person catering crew for internal and external events around campus, including nine weddings last summer.
Although regular Brewster diners can attest to the careful attention and delicious ingredients that go into menu planning, including American,
nouvelle, vegetarian, and ethnic cuisine, and everyone’s favorite comfort foods, the uninitiated need a little convincing.
One of the most common questions new families ask, according to
Admission Director Lynne Palmer, is “What if my student doesn’t like the main entrée?”
Dill has a hearty answer. In addition to the main entrée, all lunch and
dinners include a vegetarian option; a full salad bar; two or three specialty salads, such as Caesar salad, insalata caprese, Belgian endive and apple salad; a deli bar; and homemade soups. There are gluten free options,
fresh fruit, and soft, chewy cookies that students and staff grab as they hustle off to class.
“Sometimes we will have ‘Mark’s dinner.’ If a student has a favorite recipe from home, and he or she can give us the recipe, we will try to make it,” Dill explains. “Anything that feels like comfort food for them, what’s
going to make them comfortable, we like to do these small things for them. “Our philosophy in the kitchen is that we are always open,” Dill says.
“This is why we have a dining committee set up through the kids. I try to
get them talking as much as possible. It allows me to get to know the kids, which allows me to say ‘Hey let’s do a sushi night, or French cuisine or
flambé...’ the more open we are in the kitchen, the better we can serve the students.”
hard to accommodate those with different allergies as well.”
Baker noted that many beverage options have disappeared this year. “I think we need to bring back Powerade for one.” With ongoing
conversations between students and the dining services team that just might happen.
Baker’s favorite dining hall meal: the chipolte bar and her favorite dining hall dessert: ice cream. Sunday Brunch Dill admits brunches are pretty special. It’s well known, at least among
the Brewster community, that the Estabrook has the best Sunday brunch
in Wolfeboro. “It’s Tom that’s the special part,” Dill says, referring to Sous
Sydney Baker ’13 (North Conway, New Hampshire) was a member of the dining committee last year. “I personally worked with Chris Dill and the rest of the kitchen staff to change the way we walk in and out of the dish
line. This was something every kid did [the opposite way] so I decided to take initiative and change it.”
On January 1, 2012, the dining services program became an official Academy department. Previously a contractor had run the dining operation. Chris Dill, executive chef, took the helm of Dining Services and most of the staff stayed on to continue providing exceptional service to the community.
14
She added, “I like how friendly the staff are and how they have worked
BrewsterConnections – Fall 2012
Chef Tom Kelliher. “He treats every person like they are his best friend and the kids warm up to him immediately. By himself he will throw out 200
made-to-order ‘Tomeletes’ on average. With the Grateful Dead playing in the servery and dining tables draped in white table clothes, students and
faculty are treated to omelets; fresh fruit; homemade granola; warm, fresh pastries; lox and bagels; waffles and pancakes; eggs Florentine; and more.
More Enjoyment, Less Waiting With 30 minutes for lunch on class days, students want to spend as much of that time relaxing with friends and enjoying their food, not waiting in line for it. With this in mind, there are plans for a new design and flow to the Estabrook. Eventually the dining hall will be expanded outward onto the current patio, which will open up the seating area providing more space for community dinners and other events. The first stage of the new design, however, will focus on more immediate, efficient service to the students. “For us to get them in and out in 30 minutes, we are creating a brand new kitchen that’s more conducive to the number of kids we have and helping them get their meals within five minutes of entering the dining hall,” Dill explains. Throughout this winter and spring the dining hall will receive a facelift. The servery – the area between the kitchen and the dining room where students select their meals – will eventually undergo a significant layout change. There will be duplicate hot and cold service areas, so waiting time should be cut in half. The area outside the servery, currently home to
From the CIA to the Estabrook
C
hris Dill is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America in New York City. After graduation he worked for
four years as a chef de cuisine at Four Seasons Resort in Kona, Hawaii. He then worked as a personal chef to celebrity clientele at Honuala’I, an oceanfront estate on the Big Island’s Kohala Coast. “It was basically a big hide-a-way for A
list movie stars, and I came with the house,” he explained. Among his clients: Brad Pitt, Jennifer Aniston, Courtney Cox, and David Arquette. He also worked for Ocean Sports Hawaii where he was a chef on private charter sailboats and whale watch cruises.
made-to-order sub sandwiches and the soup bar, will become an enclosed
After 10 years in Hawaii, Dill missed the change of seasons. He moved
walk-through area for beverages and snacks and will remain open and
to Crested Butte, Colorado, and became an executive chef at a mountain
accessible to students all day. There is already a self-serve express entrée
lodge where he was a fly-fishing guide in the morning and a sushi chef
line to help expedite lunch. The dining area will get updated flooring, lighting, and furnishings.
in the afternoon. He then opened his own restaurant, Suzette’s Fine Southern Cooking, in Fort Collins, Colorado, but after working for “a straight solid two years” with hardly a day off he went corporate. “I got
Buying Local and Organic Aside from the physical changes, Dill wants to offer students a complete awareness of what they are eating. “We are at a good time for this awareness because everyone is hyper aware of how food arrives at the table,” he says. Dill’s goal is to offer the community the best ingredients he can and to make people aware of how to eat properly.
all the sushi bars up and running at Kroger grocery stores.” Then, it was his wife Chani’s career (she’s a professor at St. Anselm’s College) that brought him east and to Brewster Academy. “This is the best job I’ve ever had. I’ve got it all.”
“Before making purchases I ask a lot of questions of vendors. I’m looking for local [ingredients] and hormone-free meats and produce. Where is this beef slaughtered? I won’t take it from a feedlot. How far does it travel? All of our beef, pork, and chicken is hormone free and mostly from New Hampshire. Our eggs are from New Hampshire cage-free chickens.” Although buying from local and/or organic sources as much as possible can be more costly than non-organic or purchasing meat from distant, large distributors, Brewster has a volume advantage. “Because Brewster is such a large account, we have a lot of buying power,” Dill says. “We are able to get all these nice organic products at a competitive price that you or I wouldn’t necessarily get.” Even the napkin holders will soon hold some nutritional value. Students will see QR codes on the napkin holders, which they can scan to learn the nutritional value of what they are eating or what they need to eat. Dill explains, “If I’m going to be a ballerina what do I need to sustain myself?”
Whether it’s a Tomelet, a specialty salad, a vegetarian entrée, a thoughtfully prepared “comfort meal”, or a warm, chewy cookie, the table
“The focus this year is on awareness, complete awareness of what they are
has been set at Brewster and the dining services staff continue to sustain
eating. This is what your are eating and this is the nutritional value.”
the community with an abundance of healthy options.
www.brewsteracademy.org
15
Educators Take Notice of Brewster Programs Character Education and Systematic Planning By Marcia Eldredge and Rachael Jeffers ‘05
I
n the past few months Brewster representatives have traveled to
education conferences to share successful, student centered programs in place at Brewster, specifically the emotional literacy program, the
engaged discipline program, and the Academy’s disciplined systematic planning approach.
Secondary School Admission Test and the Secondary School Admission Test Board (SSATB) Head of School Dr. Michael E. Cooper and Director of Admission and
External Affairs Lynne Palmer led the workshop “Systematic Planning:
A Necessary Evil or an Imperative for Survival?” at the SSATB’s Annual Meeting in Chicago in September.
Cooper and Palmer focused on the importance of schools being systematic in their planning efforts when it comes to marketing, curriculum
development, and delivery of message. “Understanding the environment
Yale University professor Dr. Marc Brackett, here with Mike Cooper, discusses Brewster’s emotional literacy program with parents over Family Weekend.
in which a school operates, how the school is communicating what it does
label emotions, understand what triggers certain emotions, express and
school is addressing the needs of its students through the delivery of its
might be better handled in the future.
If we do not continue to show value for what we do, we run the risk of
Next, Fernald shared how an intentional response to student misconduct
a code violation into a highly personalized and meaningful growth
evolved its educational program. “Taking our lead from what experts
relations, and retention. By highlighting components of the skills-based
Academy has brought high value to its student-centered experience,”
the regulation of emotion can be on student conduct.
its review of research on how best to prepare students for college, and
How does emotional literacy impact Brewster’s approach to discipline?
offerings.”
Brewster’s curriculum and a constant in community living, the Academy
The Association of Boarding Schools
independent schools, Brewster students are held to a high expectation
in a compelling manner and distinguished from the crowd, and how the
program, is critical to the school’s growth and development,” Palmer said.
regulate feelings and reactions, and finally reflect and plan how situations
obsolescence, she added.
(the Engaged Discipline System) can turn a perfunctory reaction to
They also shared how Brewster has focused on data analysis as it has
opportunity positively impacting academic performance, interpersonal
promote as the skills necessary for success in today’s world, Brewster
emotional literacy approach the three were able to show how impactful
Cooper said. “We have done so based on an understanding of its market, how this has translated into the development of three high-value program
As the Emotional Literacy (EL) program becomes further ingrained in
has been integrating EL principles into its disciplinary system. Like many
(TABS) National Conference
of moral and ethical conduct. Now, when disciplinary issues arise, the
More and more, emotional literacy and intelligence are highlighted in
Engaged Discipline System offers students the opportunity to grow in
and later, the workforce. At the recent TABS national conference in
These situations provide teaching moments and allow for an intentional
news reports as key skills for students to master before entering college,
moral development, rather than simply being given a disciplinary strike.
Washington, D.C., Cooper, along with Joe Fernald, dean of students; and
and systematic approach grounded in five principles:
the curve on teaching emotional literacy to students.
• The dean of students and other adults in the community must work
Yale University professor Marc Brackett, showed how Brewster is ahead of
In the session, Teaching Emotional Literacy and Its Impact on Student Conduct,
Brackett and Cooper first shared how in Brewster classrooms and dorms, students and teachers are gaining the tools they need to recognize and
16
BrewsterConnections – Fall 2012
together to help the student change behaviors.
• Brewster must try to take a systematic, not random, approach to helping students change their behavior.
• Students must examine their behavior in relation to the Brewster Principle. • Brewster mentors work with students to identify the impact their behavior has on self, family, and community, and then assist them in changing behavior.
• The program is grounded in Lawrence Kohlberg’s stages of moral development as a philosophical framework in the Academy’s approach to discipline.
As Fernald notes, “Time and time again, parents and students tell me that working through the Engaged Discipline System was one of the strongest growth experiences they’ve had. I
have, literally, had parents say to me that their son or daughter, ‘getting in trouble turned out
to be such a positive experience’.” The focus on turning a poor choice into an opportunity for
growth is yet another piece of what sets a Brewster education apart from other schools, and in the long run it does Brewster students a great service.
By refocusing the disciplinary process on engaging students and helping them employ
emotional literacy skills to recognize, understand, and alter how emotions impact their
choices and actions, sets Brewster students up for success in the future. After graduation, they may not have the same systems in place to hold them accountable for choices and the impacts they have on others, but the goal is for them to leave campus with the tools to realize and
understand their emotions and actions better in the future so that they can be their best selves.
Brewster’s Engaged Discipline System
B
rewster’s Engaged Discipline System is coordinated by the Office of the Dean of Students and moves students through a series of six steps – drawing on emotional literacy skills – where they are required to:
1. Keep a journal dealing with their own morality, decision making, and values 2. Respond, in writing, to four moral dilemma questions assigned to them by the school counselor
3. Work with the school counselor on learning to take a meta-moment before making
decisions
4. Interview a member of the Brewster community who has been impacted by the student’s poor decision making. Complete the “blue printing” (one of the four
anchors of the RULER Approach) with that student in conjunction with the faculty member who oversees the step.
5. Make a presentation to a group of students focusing on the offense that put the
student on probation and outline how the student has grown from the experience. 6. Write a reflection piece to be shared with the Academy’s student-faculty Judicial Board as part of petitioning to come off disciplinary probation status.
By completing the various stages of the Engaged Discipline process, students may earn back privileges that were lost as a result of their misconduct.
Cheer on the national defending champion Brewster Bobcats at the Hoophall Classic Brewster Academy vs. South Kent School Springfield College - Blake Arena Sunday, January 20 at 12 p.m. Pre-game reception at 10:30 a.m. Springfield College Wellness Center Refreshments, fan shirt, and ticket all for $25 For more information, please contact Sally Smith, Special Events and Programs at sally_smith@brewsteracademy.org or 603-569-7470 www.brewsteracademy.org
17
Newsmakers Madison Blauth ’15
Trey Adams’ ’12 talents earned them national
(Pennington, New
play. Hennessey (Londonderry, New Hampshire)
“I talk to my teammates all the time about how
Jersey) was selected to
competed at the US Lacrosse Women’s Division
they should appreciate what they have right now,”
attend USA Hockey’s
National Tournament in May. More than 100 players
Negedu said. “Win or lose, they should do it hard
girls’ national player
tried out for the regional team, and the young,
because you never know when its your last. But the
development camp this
hard-nosed Brewster goaltender beat out 10 other
way you work at whatever you’re doing, that stays
past July in St. Cloud,
goaltenders for two coveted spots on the Upper
with you no matter what.”
Minnesota. Also, her U-14 Tier 1 Connecticut Polar
New England A team.
Freshman Curvey Scholars
Bears team made it to the quarterfinals of the 2012 U.S. Nationals.
Adams (Akwesasne, New York), earned a spot on the Iroquois U-19 National Lacrosse Team. Adams Juliet Hadley ’15 (Tuftonboro) has been recommended to the 2013 Futures Program, the Olympic Developmental
was chosen as one of two goalies to make this prestigious team, and in July he played in the 2012 U19 Men’s World Lacrosse Championships in Turku, Finland. Adams was the Bobcats goaltender for the past two years and now plays for Utica College.
Program for USA Field Hockey.
“An exciting opportunity lies ahead for Juliet having earned a recommendation,” said head field hockey coach Kim Yau. “She is pursuing the Futures Program following her freshman season as a Brewster Bobcat on the varsity field hockey team, and Futures is an invaluable stepping stone for Hadley to further her
Former Bobcat Named D-1 Scholar Athlete Luke Apfeld ’09 (Wolfeboro), a junior at the University of Vermont, was named to the 20112012 Division I-AAA Athletics Directors Association Scholar-Athlete Team. A double major in English and sociology with a 3.82 grade point average, Apfeld was one of only 11 men in the nation honored.
positive potential.”
Mike Cooper with the newest Curvey Scholars (l to r): Ali Reed, Hannah Coulter, and Kolby McKenzie. In September, the community welcomed three more Curvey Scholars. This is a special year in that there are now Curvey Scholars represented in all four grades. The three newest scholars are freshmen Hannah Coulter (Tuftonboro), Kolby McKenzie (Alton), and Ali Reed (Tuftonboro). In December 2008, James C. Curvey and his family donated 11 acres of waterfront
18
LAX Goaltenders Among the Best
Negedu Inspires Players
property in Alton to Brewster Academy. Through
Despite being sidelined from his college hoops career
the land donation, it was Curvey’s desire to create
due to a heart condition, Emmanuel Negedu ’08 has
scholarships so that more local students would have
not left the court of the University of New Mexico
the opportunity to attend Brewster.
Brewster lacrosse
Lobos. In a profile The Albuquerque Journal (October
netminders Elise
21) reports that Negedu continues to inspire his
The freshmen scholars join sophomores Chase
Hennessey ’15 and
former teammates.
Gardner (Wolfeboro), Tre Galligan (Gilford), and
BrewsterConnections – Fall 2012
Isabella Monzione (Alton); juniors Sean Cassidy
Global Awareness Local Action (G.A.L.A.), whose
the grant will also support up to two paid seasonal
(Alton Bay) and Rebecca Jones (Wolfeboro); and
executive director is Josh Arnold ’01, was the New
internships for interested youth. (galacommunity.org)
seniors Cristina Adams (Alton), Bianca Barcelo
Hampshire representative in the recent Tom’s
(Wolfeboro), and Ashley Rogers (Alton Bay).
of Maine 50 States for Good grant campaign. The challenge asked supporters to vote for their favorite
Hodges’ Dedication to a Day of Thanks
Coming to a Theatre Class Near Us
organization each day online for the chance to win up
In mid-November, multimedia teacher BG Hodges
to $50,000. When all the votes were counted, G.A.L.A.
’66 was featured on the Boston Rescue Mission
Actor Topher Grace ’97 plans to join the Fine and
was one of five second place winners across national
website for his commitment to the Boston shelter
Performing Arts Department as an artist in residence
and the organization has received a $20,000 grant.
whose mission is to offer resources to prevent and end homelessness. For 20 years BG, along with
during the production of Bye Bye Birdie, the winter The influx of funds will support the organization’s
student volunteers, has traveled to the Rescue
Sustain-a-Raisers program to help it grow into a
Mission to help prepare its annual Day of Thanks
Grace is currently filming A Many Splintered Thing, a
youth-led model for sustainable home and yard
celebration. For many years these students have
romantic comedy starring Michelle Monaghan and
makeovers and green skills education. Funding from
included members of Brewster’s Faith Community.
musical.
Chris Evans. He also recently completed filming on The Big Wedding, a comedy with an ensemble cast set for release in the spring.
The Excellence in Teaching Award: Jonathan Fouser Awarded annually the Excellence in
Cmar is Top Chef Contestant
Teaching Award is
Talk about being your best self, as Connections was going to print, Stephanie Cmar ’03 was set to be a “chef’testant” on “Top Chef: Seattle.” The chef’testants will be “pared down week by week as
“With generous volunteers like BG Hodges and students of Brewster Academy, our cup of blessing runneth over,” the article states.
The Career Growth Award: Doug Skelley
given in recognition
Awarded annually,
of demonstrated
the Career Growth
excellence in teaching
Award is given in
practices and overall
recognition of that
they compete to out-flavor, out-cook, and out-do
contributions within the Brewster Academy
their competition,” according to the Bravo TV
program.
faculty member who over the course of the year has demonstrated
website. The showed premiered on November 7 with 21 “Top Chef: Seattle” hopefuls.
When you hear this faculty member talk about teaching, his passion immediately draws
the most accelerated professional growth within the Brewster Academy program.
After Brewster, Cmar attended Johnson & Wales
you in and fills you with energy. He loves to
University. She is currently a rounds cook at No. 9
share his passion for teaching with others and
Distinguished by his relationship with students
loves to have colleagues visit his class. He is
that is a foundation of his effective teaching,
always pursuing innovations and professional
he is a teacher who cares about his students
development that can enhance his teaching. He
and invests in their success. He has taken on a
is completely dedicated to his profession and
leadership role in Brewster’s summer program
to his students. He holds the bar high for all his
and he is a wonderful ambassador for our school
Park in Boston. According to her Bravo bio, if she were a food, she would be mayonnaise “because it makes everything better.”
Arnold’s Leadership Earns GALA Grant
students, and because he believes in their ability to reach that bar, his students are inspired to stretch and aim for excellence. His students learn to respect their own abilities because he insists they give their work their best both in
in the larger Wolfeboro community. Always upbeat, with that ‘can-do’ attitude, he has been a resource for others with technology, and particularly Moodle. Just as he is always available to those who need his help, he is eager to learn and grow and is always seeking ideas for his
the classroom and on a tough mountain climb.
teaching. He joined Brewster in September 2007
He joined Brewster in September 1998 to teach
as the community living parent in Sargent 3 and
within the Instructional Support department
also coached three seasons. In 2008 he taught in
and coaching within the athletic department. He
the Instructional Support department until his
moved to the English department in 2001.
transfer to the history department in 2009.
www.brewsteracademy.org
19
Brewster On The
Road
New York City July – Trey Whitfield Benefit – Brewster alumni
England. We were happy to see Nikeiva Crawford
Mike Clark ’89 and Janiya Johnson ’00, joined
‘05, Danah Gordon ‘04, and Dominique Aubry ‘02.
Mike and Andrea Cooper, Kristy Kerin, and Whitney White ‘07 at the Trey Whitfield Foundation’s 20th
October – New York City area alumni joined Beth
Annual Awards Banquet. The evening celebrated
Hayes ’81 and Whitney White ’07 for an unofficial
the successes of academic honorees from the Trey
kick-off for the New York Regional Alumni Chapter.
Whitfield School, some of whom have graduated
At a planning session in mid-town the group
from Brewster, it was another chance to remember
brainstormed ideas for upcoming events, timing,
Trey ‘89 and celebrate the connections between the
venues, and focus; setting a goal of three or four
K-8 school in Brooklyn and Brewster Academy.
events a year. On October 13 alumni volunteers assisted in restoring an elementary school library at
July – Whitney White ’07 and Beth Hayes ’81 met
a public school in the Bronx. Stay tuned throughout
Brewster alumni at a social, networking event for
the year for more opportunities to get together with
alumni of color from independent schools in New
NYC area Bobcats!
Summer Receptions The Brewster Admission Office hosted five summer
July –Bill and Beth Depietri (Justin ’16) hosted
receptions to offer newly enrolled families an
the first of the receptions just around the corner
opportunity to meet other families, alumni, and
from the Brewster campus in Wolfeboro. Mike and
faculty and staff before the opening of school. A
Andrea Cooper and staff members including Marcia
big thank you to the Depietri, Scott, Fix, Reiner,
Eldredge (Alexa ’16), Lisa Braiterman (Shira ’13),
and Curran families for hosting these receptions.
Fred Garnsey (Ryder ’14), and Maria and Matt Found
Following is a quick review of the receptions and
(Gunner ’16) joined many other new local families
some of the attendees.
for introductions. This was a great kick-off for our summer reception events!
Wolfeboro area students at the summer kick-off reception.
Kristy Kerin with hosts Ally ’10 and Amy Reiner and Mike Cooper.
Kristy Kerin, Spencer Liautaud ’13, Luke O’Brien ’13, and Emilee Brackenbury ’14
August – Neal and Amy Reiner (Ally ’10) hosted the
hosted the fourth summer reception in Chicago.
second reception in their Wellesley, Massachusetts,
Will Fix ’11 joined the group of new families and
home. Mike and Andrea Cooper and Kristy Kerin, Lynne
Brewster staff to share his Brewster memories and
Palmer (P’12) and Martha Trepanier ’83 were joined
talk about the faculty who made a big difference
Mike Cooper and Lynne Palmer, director of admission
by three alumni – Ally Reiner ’10, Maeve Connolly ’10,
during his time on campus. Martha and Kristy;
and external affairs. They visited with current and
and Jimmy Murphy ’11, as well as Kevin Murphy ’13
Students Keenan Fix ’13, Luke O’Brien ‘13, Spencer
past families as well as with Bermuda Brewster
all of whom welcomed new families.
Liautaud ’13, Andrew McMahon ’14, and Ashleigh
alumni Shannon Dyer ’03 and Kareem Johnson ’99.
Wirtz ’15. From Brewster, Martha Trepanier ’83 and
Both are doing well and enjoying life on the island.
Kristy Kerin attended from Brewster.
Stay tuned for plans for a Brewster Bermuda alumni
August – Polly Scott (Samuel ’15) hosted the third reception at her Manhattan home. Bri Gatta ’05
Bermuda September – Kristy Kerin traveled to Bermuda with
event in April 2013!
and Christina Strong ’05 attended along with board
August – Kevin and Claudine Curran (Alex ’06,
president Dan Mudge and wife Kathy Mudge (P’98,
Genevieve ’11) hosted the final and late-summer
’02). Mike Cooper, Kristy Kerin, and Martha Trepanier
gathering on Nantucket. Ethan McMorrow ’87 and
Wolfeboro
’83 travelled from Brewster for the reception.
Wendy Kagan Roultiard ’88 joined staff at the
September –The Lakes Region Alumni Chapter
event. Lynne Palmer P’08, ’09 ’12 and Fred Garnsey
(LRAC) enjoyed a historic tour of nearby Effingham
(Ryder ’14) attended from Brewster.
and a visit back to campus while classes were in
August – Bob and Karey Fix (Will ’11, Keenan ’13)
session. (See page 11) The group will return to
Fenway Park
campus for cookies and hot cocoa in the Pinckney
July –Red Sox fans and Brewster alumni and faculty got
Boathouse this December. Any Brewster alumni in
together on a warm July night for a game at Fenway
the Lakes Region area are welcome to join in LRAC
Park. While it wasn’t a win for the Sox, it was a home
events and meetings. Please contact Beth Hayes
run for everyone who attended! Thirty alumni, faculty,
’81 in the Alumni and Development Office for more
and friends gathered at Copperfield’s Bar and Down
information: beth_hayes@brewsteracademy.org.
Under Pub before heading to the stands. Alumni from and visited with faculty members Doug Kiley, Yu Lui,
Saudi Arabia
Rob O’Blenis, and Jaime Garzon. New Alumni Office
October – Admission officer Jay Anctil traveled
1980 through 2008 enjoyed each others company
staff members Rachael Jeffers ‘05 and Whitney White ‘07 joined Beth Hayes ’81 at the event.
Ginger Leib ’06, Mary Seaman ’06, and Maggie Weeks ’06 were part of Bobcat Nation at Fenway Park in July.
abroad to attend school fairs and visit with current and alumni families in Saudi Arabia.
www.brewsteracademy.org
21
Fall Fundraising Auctions Break Records Generous Donors and Bidders Made for an Exciting Night By Sally Smith
T
he M/S Mt. Washington provided a cozy atmosphere for
Brewster’s Fall Family Weekend Auction Fundraisers. The
attendees – 320 parents, grandparents, staff, friends, and even a
few students – came aboard the docked steamship to enjoy the evening, with The Mount staff serving dinner, dessert, and cocktails. The success of the silent and live auctions was made possible by the many generous and creative contributions of Brewster families, friends, and area businesses as well as all of the enthusiastic bidders. The auctions help support financial aid for students as well as other programs. “With record-breaking attendance and total dollars raised ($151,000), our Fall Family Weekend Auction was a huge success thanks to our dedicated parents and friends,” said Kristy Kerin, director of advancement. “Our
Two of the three auction chairs: Raquel Rogers and Darla Monzione.
ability to guide student growth is directly impacted by the generous support of our auction sponsors and bidders. Heartfelt thanks to our parents, friends, and merchants for your generosity and support!” Student entertainers who shared their musical, dance, and poetic talents throughout the evening were Shira Braiterman ’13 (Wolfeboro), Will Foote ’13 (Rockport, Maine), Taylor Cantrall ’13 (New Durham, New Hampshire), Megan Harp ’14 (Hollis, New Hampshire), and Ashley Rogers ’13 (Alton Bay, New Hampshire). One of the highlights of the Live Auction was a surprise item – a Brewster quilt, handcrafted by a local parent of a junior (as well as a graduate) – which garnered $6,000. Angelo Varrone’s (Brewster’s equipment room
Will Foote ’13 was one of the student entertainers at the auctions.
manager) now famous Italian feast went to a hungry bidder for $8,500, and various trips and packages for one-of-a-kind adventures created a flurry of bidding. The auction came together seamlessly due to the talents of Brewster’s returning auction chairs – Josephine Grayson (Bradley ’14), Darla Monzione (Bella ’15), and Raquel Rogers (Ashley ’13) – who started planning last spring and organized and worked with the auction committee of Brewster parents. Dynamic auctioneer Bill Zafirson (P’11) opened the Live Auction sharing his affinity for the school as the parent of a 2011 graduate. Bill expressed that his son’s success, now a college sophomore, is a direct result of his experience at Brewster.
22
BrewsterConnections – Fall 2012
Alumni parent and auctioneer Bill Zafirson accepts bids on this afghan enthusiastically crafted by Brewster teachers and staff.
New England Champions
Seeded Seventh in the NEPSAC Tournament, the Lady Bobcats Rise to the Top
T
he Brewster girls’ varsity soccer team defeated St. Luke’s School
1-0 to win the New England Preparatory School Athletic Council (NEPSAC) Class C championship on November 18.
The Bobcats were seeded seventh in the prestigious NEPSAC Tournament and the road was a tough one for the Bobcats. It was an overtime goal
from freshman Liz Lane (Parsonsfield, Maine) that propelled seventh seed Brewster to a 1-0 win over second seed Lexington Christian Academy in
the quarterfinals. While Lane’s goal proved to be the difference, it was the indomitable defending of the Bobcats that kept them in the game even during stretches where LCA controlled the play. In the semifinals Brewster advanced with a convincing 2-0 victory over #3 seed Greens Farms Academy. Lane and freshmen Katy Bryan (Sanford, Maine) were the scorers.
Front row: (l to r) seniors Meaghan Spurling, Sam Bryan, Danielle Tidd, Katie Parkman Standing: Coach Matt Butcher, Kat Truelson ‘14, Taylor Fry ‘14, Katy Bryan ‘16, Zoe Rafalowski-Houseman ‘15, Liz Lane ‘16, Shea McIntyre ‘16, Malani Lee ‘16, Kolby McKenzie ‘16, Skler Sherman ‘14, Rebecca Jones ‘14, Shannon Godin ‘14, Assistant Coach Laura Cooper. Missing: Emilee Brackenbury ‘14 and Laurence Porlier ‘13.
In the finals they met the #1 seed and defending NEPSAC Champions, St. Luke’s School. Brewster scored on a Liz Lane goal midway through
the first half and never looked back. Senior captains Sam Bryan (Sanford,
Maine) and Danielle Tidd (Alton, New Hampshire) were the backbone of a defense that bent but never broke. “I am so pleased with this group,” said a very proud and elated coach Matt Butcher after the dramatic win. “This was an amazing week for us, and I am just happy for this group of girls; we had nothing to lose and just stuck together.” Brewster and St. Luke’s have quite the history meeting in the NEPSAC finals. Last season, the Red Storm defeated the Bobcats 1-0 in another great game. “Over the years St. Luke’s and Brewster have been the elite of Class C soccer,” said Director of Athletics Matt Lawlor. “This Brewster team is special and were fun to watch these last few weeks. Coaches Butcher and Laura Cooper do an outstanding job and these girls make Bobcat Nation proud!”
The boys’ varsity team earned the Lakes Region League title and also earned the seventh seed in the NEPSAC tournament. They
were knocked out in the quarterfinals (3-0) by second seed Rivers
The team will
School, however. Overall, they were 13-5-1 on the season and 10-2
hang another
in the Lakes Region.
New England Championship
“I am so proud of these kids,” Coach Karl Edmonds said. “This
banner in the Smith
has been such a fun year and to be around these guys is great. We
Center for Athletics
are proud to hang a banner in the Smith Center.”
and Wellness. The team last won the
Junior Andre Simmond (Londonderry, New Hampshire), above
NEPSAC title in
on the left, senior Charlie Kelly (Liverpool, England), and senior
2009. In 2011 they
Kevin Park (Orinda, California), not pictured, were named to
were finalist and
the New England Prep School Soccer Association All-Star Teams
in 2010 they were semifinalists.
Lakes Region Champs, New England Quarterfinalists
Victory
representing the eastern region.
www.brewsteracademy.org
23
Rolling Out a New Future for Field Sports
A
lot can happen in a year. During the last week of October 2011, Head of School Mike Cooper stood on the back steps of Lord House looking out over more than a foot of snow that had
just blanketed campus during an unseasonable October snowstorm. He wondered how the snow would impact the fall field teams.
Fast forward a year to October 30, 2012. Despite the soaking effects of yet another October storm – Hurricane Sandy – Cooper stood at the edge of Brown Field looking out over a brand new synthetic turf surface. This year, he didn’t have to ponder the elements so much. Despite the afternoon drizzle, enthusiastic soccer and field hockey players stepped onto the field for the first practices to be played on the new surface.
“When I think about where we were a year ago and how an
idea has turned into a reality in such a short time ... well, it’s simply amazing that so many could come together to make this happen for the school,” Cooper said. “Watching the
coaches on the field was like watching new parents on the
arrival of their first child, excitement, anticipation, and sense of pride all rolled into one.”
This beautiful facility was made possible thanks to generous
support by dedicated parents, alumni, and friends. It will be home to Brewster’s soccer, lacrosse, and field hockey teams.
By luck of the schedule, the boys’ junior varsity soccer team had the
honor of playing the first game on the new turf, while the boys’ varsity soccer team captured the first Brewster win on the turf. Go Bobcats!
Watch the turf rollout in a time-lapse video.
brewsteracademy.org/Turf-Rollout
24
BrewsterConnections – Fall 2012
From Bobcat to the NCAA
B
rewster Academy’s graduates are prepared not only for the
academic rigors of college but they are also ready for the playing fields. Over the past two years, more than one in four graduates
has gone on to participate in intercollegiate athletics. Brewster has sent
student-athletes onto Division I, II, and III schools to play basketball, ice
hockey, field hockey, soccer, baseball, crew, cross country, and tennis and
even to a collegiate swim team. In the Class of 2011, 31 Brewster graduates found themselves on college rosters and another 32 in 2012.
“As an athletic department we are very proud of these statistics,” said Director of Athletics Matt Lawlor. “We have dedicated, hard-working
student-athletes here at Brewster, and we enjoy seeing them have success and earning opportunities to play at that next level.”
Lawlor is quick to credit Brewster’s coaching staff and college counselors in guiding student-athletes in the right direction. “We are fortunate to
have a College Office that works very hard at guiding students toward an
appropriate placement. And our coaches should be applauded too, as they provide guidance during the recruiting process and assist the student-
athletes in making a decision that best fits each individual in the classroom and on the playing fields.”
In conjunction with National Signing Day on November 14, seven
students made commitments to colleges and universities for next fall.
B R E WS TE R AC AD E M Y • 2013
SAVE THE DATE Alumni and Hockey Enthusiasts Brewster’s Winni Classic is Sunday, February 17, 2013. Bring your family for winter fun on the Brewster campus and on the lake. Pond hockey games will be played in front of the Pinckney Boathouse. Men’s alumni game begins at 12 p.m. Women’s alumni game begins at 2 p.m.
The students are (standing l to r): Kyle Washington (basketball, North Carolina State); Jon Gomer (lacrosse, Sacred Heart University); Elijah Macon (basketball, University of West Virginia); (seated l to r) Kevin Murphy (lacrosse, Hobart and William Smith Colleges); Ron Patterson (basketball, Syracuse University); John Edwards (basketball, University of New Hampshire); Jon McNamara (lacrosse, Loyola University). Brewster anticipates having more student athletes make commitments during the spring signing period.
Let us know that you’re coming: contact Sally Smith, special events and programs coordinator, at sally_smith@brewsteracademy.org or call 603-569-7470. www.brewsteracademy.org
25
member and Former faculty Ron Nentwig s, nt dean of stude
Mike Cooper and guests enjoying the 1962 50th Reunion dinner reception in the Smith Center on Friday evening of Reunion.
Sisters Diedra Magnifico-Cardamone ’89 and Krista Magnifico ’87 with faculty members Maureen and Bob Simoneau.
Return to Campus: REUNION 2012
A
inski, Alicia Wielgosz Kelly O’Donnell, il ct An a nn a, Ja Elizabeth Siracus
Faculty membe r Barb Thomas enjoying Saturd ay night’s lobster bake.
lthough the pouring rain seemed to be a popular conversation
The class of 1962 also gathered on Friday evening, celebrating their
topic throughout Reunion, the weather did not dampen spirits
50th Reunion. Thirty members returned to reminisce and celebrate in
or attendance. More than 225 alumni gathered for a fabulous
the Turner Hall of Fame at the Smith Center. The evening included a
weekend.
reception; dinner; a DVD presentation that brought both laughs and tears; and the awarding of pins and certificates. It was a wonderful evening that
Thank you to our talented alumni who contributed to the alumni art
ended with strong handshakes, hugs, and promises to stay in touch.
exhibit. We had submissions across five decades of alumni – a lot of talent represented. We are already planning for the 2013 Reunion Art Show.
Some new events introduced to Reunion 2012 included the Friday night off-campus parties. Alumni, friends, and current and former faculty
The class of 1987 gathered to celebrate their 25th Reunion on Friday
members kicked off Reunion with multiple gatherings at local alumni
evening at the Pinckney Boathouse. They were joined by former Brewster
homes, Bearce Hall, and downtown restaurants and taverns.
faculty: Doug and Mary Fallon, Beth Fox, Matt Hoopes, Ron and Sue Nentwig, Bob and Shirley Richardson, and David and Sheila Smith; and
Alumni gathered on Saturday morning for a presentation on Brewster’s
current faculty Bob and Maureen Simoneau. After a warm welcome from
evolving program. Mike Cooper, Lynne Palmer, director of admission
Head of School Mike Cooper, they watched their yearbook set to music in
and external affairs; Peter Hess, dean of studies; and Matt Butcher,
a slideshow.
English department chair; led an engaging presentation on how Brewster
Liz Scully, Tamah French-Proops, John Hamblett, Doug Irwin, CB Currier, Bryce Jackson, Heather Monroe Rohner, Steve Finn, Mandy Clark Scheel, George Ide, Krista Magnifco, Ethan McMorrow, Kevin French, Daphne Sands Corso
26
BrewsterConnections – Fall 2012
Members of the Class of 1992: Front row (l to r): George Trojan, Erica (Cohen) Lewy, Shonda (Thomas) Stewart, Stephanie (O’Connor) Leahey, Mike Heinbach, Gerry Holmberg; Back row (l to r): Ronn Bronzetti, Philip Walker , former Headmaster David Smith, Terrence Spitler, Matt Cullen, Curtis Coleman
Matt Cullen ’92 and his wife Jenelle enjoy an old yearbook.
ghan) and Janna (Vau Ed Isenberg ‘62 mates at ss cla th thering wi Kasarjian ‘62 ga io at n dinner. Reunion celebr the 1962 50th
her Monroe roops ’87, Heat Tamah French-P heel ’87 Sc k dy Clar Rohner ’87, Man
Former faculty member Sue Nentwig.
continues to evolve and enhance its programs to prepare students with the skills they need for success in college and the 21st century. On Saturday afternoon, some brave souls enjoyed a lake cruise aboard the Winnipesaukee Belle while others enjoyed games in the Smith Center and the Estabrook. A Reunion highlight was the Saturday evening Lobster Bake in the Estabrook with all the fixin’s and grilled steak. A special thanks to the
Denley family, Geoff ’00, Andrew ’03, and Brad ‘09, for their support of the
Our oldest alumni attending Reunion: Bob Hanson ’41 Traveling farthest: Phil Walker ’92 from San Francisco
lobster dinner. Following dinner, the Pinckney Boathouse was the site of music, lights, and dancing, not to mention a photo booth! Sunday morning found the Boathouse filled again for a delicious brunch, a few sleepy alums, and warm embraces. Now we pause only briefly before we began planning for next year’s
The class with the highest percentage attending Reunion: the 50th Reunion Class of 1962 The class with the highest percentage of participation in the Annual Fund: 1954
Reunion when we look forward to celebrating all of our classes, May 31June 2, 2013.
Back row: Steve Petsche, Kate Donahue, Jill Egan’s boyfriend, Forrest Letarte; Middle row: Dan Mardis, Darin Levesque, Marie Maseng, Nicole Black, Megeen Simoneau, Wes Budrose, Jason Flanders, Ryan Barber; First row: Dominique Aubry, Jillian Egan, Samantha (Lion) Trask, Sheena (Kirk) Babine, Victoria Bevz, Matt Rogers
First row (l to r): Jireh Billings, James Simoneau, Kate Buesser, Christopher Bodkin; second Row (l to r): Kelly O’Donnell, Chezney Auburt, Alicia Wielgoszinski, Anne Debow, Denise Sprague, Janna Anctil Kim Cooper, Elizabeth Siracusa; third row (l to r): Kelsey Kirker, Andy O’Brien, faculty member Bob Simoneau, Tyler Hunt, Brendan Marlow, Whitney White, Jessica Stern, Carlos Rodriguez, Brad Hoyt, faculty member Maureen Simoneau, Bank Tangjaitrong, Jennifer O’Leary, Beth Gallugi, Kelsey Harger; fourth row (l to r): Ryan Buesser, Andrew Lowrie, Ben Sinnett, Christopher Cason, Jay Kravis, Dr. Mike Cooper, Andrea Cooper
www.brewsteracademy.org
27
HOOPLA by Matt Hoopes
Beyond the Ballot Alumni in Public Policy Positions
H
ere in the Commonwealth of the Bahamas, we’ve just held an election covering all 58 inhabited islands. It took a total of 90 days from opening
campaigning to final voting. Nowadays, campaigning in the United States seems almost non-stop. Although elections are over, the work goes on and this work includes that of our alumni, many from behind the political scenes.
In the election year that was, Connections editors were curious about how many alumni might have careers in politics. After an extensive search, I discovered that currently Brewster doesn’t have any alumni holding elective office at the national or state level. If my sleuthing was faulty, and I missed a possible future senator or president, I sincerely apologize. Please do let me know and I promise to contribute to your next campaign! I know we did have office holders among our alums, but they’ve all retired. They were all of one party, however, and I was a little nervous that some of my faithful readers of the ‘other’ party might cry foul, but no worries there now.
Evan Shone ‘83, founder of San Francisco Motor Sports, shipped this 1964 Morris Minor to Matt Hoopes in the Bahamas 12 years ago. Here Hoopes chauffeurs brothers Tim ‘91 and Dan ’93 Smith and Dan’s wife Inese around Eleuthera.
Since Brewster alumni do work in politics and public affairs, though, we decided
I’m always searching for topics for this column, so please get back to me with
to profile those in non-elected positions. While I assumed that a great deal of
your suggestions: islesman@batelnet.ba or reply to one of my postage paid pink
hard work and endless hours were logged by those paid and unpaid staffers
postcards that hopefully find their way to your mailbox.
supporting the office seekers, it wasn’t until I started hearing the following battle tales that I fully understood the extent of their expertise and devoted labor.
Wishing all ‘Aldebest,’
Again, the usual appeal – please keep in touch. I’m always interested in hearing from all alumni who have ‘tales to tell’ of their work or adventures.
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.
28
BrewsterConnections – Fall 2012
HOOPLA Jeff Goldberg ’97
Senior Program Manager, Office of the Senate Sergeant At Arms While Jeff’s job title might not seem as impressive as some of the other alumni
“I learned an enormous
interviewed for this column, don’t let the title fool you. His job, be it behind
amount in a relatively
the scenes, has involved many years of extensive training leading to the varied
short time. The tragedies
emergency planning expertise he has acquired. Jeff is a modest individual and
of so many individuals and
almost ‘aw-shucks’ his many years of training and background, saying that
families made the work
gaining his present position was mostly luck, being in the right place at the right
heart breaking, and yet
time. He obviously enjoys what he does, and at the same time, is awed by his
rewarding, as I could see
position’s responsibilities.
the benefits of my help. During this time I met and
Jeff works for the Office of the Senate Sergeant At Arms. He lives in Washington,
worked with many fine
D.C., and works in the U.S. Capitol. Jeff and his staff are in charge of emergency
people who’s knowledge
planning.
and friendship have
Jeff Goldberg ’97
boosted me professionally.” “We are preparing for the next 9/11.”
When asked whether he considered himself a public servant or does he feel His department is responsible for training senators and their staffs in the proper protocol to follow in a threat or emergency. If an attack on the Capitol occurs, Jeff’s roll then becomes an advisory one, and he and his staff would work with those responding to the situation. “My job requires that I stay in the shadows. If I am doing everything correctly, the plans I put into place will never need to be tested. My work allows those who make the laws to do their job, uninhibited.” When asked how he became interested in his field of work, Jeff immediately mentioned his Brewster days. “When I was at BA I was co-captain on the crew team with Jesse Green ‘96, and he took an EMT class with the Wolfeboro fire department. It seemed like such a good way to be involved with the community and give back in a manner that also interested me. Jesse encouraged me to take an EMT class when I got to Ithaca College. … Fall of my sophomore year I took a three-week firefighting class and started the EMT class. I later took a paramedic class and worked full time [as a firefighter and paramedic] while finishing my degree.”
a need for change in the way government works, Jeff’s humility once again is evident as he points out that he serves those who are the real public servants. “There are 100 individual employers in the Senate and every office does things differently. It requires a lot of attention to detail in order to comply with their requests and make them feel that they are the only one that really matters.” Jeff goes on with a comparison to Brewster. “There are many moving pieces when a new Congress is elected. This year there are 10 retiring Senators and 33 who were up for reelection. This means a lot of new offices and staff. It’s like move-in-day at Brewster – everyone is lost!” While Jeff doesn’t think that a lot of change is needed to improve government, he does believe that voters need to be more selective. “I would tell people not to pick a candidate based on what they can do for you as an individual, rather on what the candidate proposes to do that will better the nation.” Jeff, still single, says that he’s not “chasing the dream,” but living it. «I take public transportation to work. Every day I get to walk to the Capitol, and I am still enamored with the building. I work in a place where people are lucky if they even
As mentioned, Jeff felt that his professional career advanced due to timing
get to visit once. I work in and for a working monument. There is a lot of pride
of events and people with whom he met and worked. “After graduating from
among my co-workers toward doing their best.”
Ithaca College and working a few years as a paramedic, I decided to move to Washington and enter the government consulting world. I was working on
Jeff also travels frequently, covering security at events throughout the country.
various small projects when Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans, and I was rushed to Louisiana to work with the Federal Emergency Management
Not certain as to how long he’ll remain working for the government, he says
System’s recovery efforts. Originally I was contracted for just a week, but
that he is enjoying it and those he works with immensely. Still, Jeff has a
thereafter was assigned as managerial consultant to a recovery center, working
hankering to try something else in the future. He said that he believes that
out of an abandoned shoe store. For four months I worked with a team that
involvement in education is a way to test ideas and meet the right people. This
made certain that funds were made available for community needs, repairs to
has proven to be true for him in the past and that in the future he may return to
libraries, senior centers, and such.
graduate school and see where it leads him.
www.brewsteracademy.org
29
HOOPLA Christine Garrison ’88
Communications and Development Consultant I’m a self-employed communication and development consultant working mostly with political clients. I’ve worked for incumbents, caucuses, and political campaigns as well as organizations. I’ve worked a couple of federal campaigns, but most of my clients are in the Texas Legislature. I call myself a consultant as people in my role do every possible thing it takes to have the client succeed. One day you’ll find me directing a major event or handing a media crisis. The next day you’ll find me making 30 phone calls in a row to raise money. I also perform all the tasks of being my own secretary. So the title ‘consultant’ is broad by necessity. I was known by my Brewster classmates as both a painter and a writer. Whenever anyone wanted to find me, especially on weekends, they’d just check the art building or journalism studio. As I loved to write creatively, poems and descriptive pieces, I’d find a quiet, comfortable place and write away! I spent a lot of time in the journalism studio helping Chris Seifert ‘86 edit pieces for the
Christine Garrison with husband Eddie Rodriquez and Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.)
Outcroppings magazine. I loved the work. During my college years, however, I
I developed key mentorships, even friendships with several Brewster faculty
had to make the choice between my two passions and bowed to the journalism
members, again something that I could never have enjoyed in a public school
route, realizing that it would be more likely to allow me to pay my bills on time –
setting. My beloved Matt Hoopes made literature a great adventure and gave me
I now paint with my little boy!
a hunger for books that I will never abandon. Hoopes also got me started writing at least twice weekly in my journal, something I still do, and something that has
After college I went on a great journalism adventure, working at newspapers,
yielded a wealth of perspective over the years. Other mentors included my art
first in Texas, then along the East coast, and then the West coast. In 2002 I found
teacher Cheryl Dumont and my dorm parent Barbara Douglass – each in their
myself living north of San Francisco and running the politics/government desk at
own way helped me to grow into a more serious young person with a plan for my
a New York Times outlet.
future. Without my years at Brewster, I very much doubt that I would have made it to or through college. Brewster was the foundation to the professional I became.
While that might sound glamorous, I was actually stuck in a mid-level job where I worked very hard to receive very little credit. Still, in that role my interest in
I don’t consider myself a public servant as many consultants do; however, I would
politics grew, and I wanted to know what it was like on the other side, where
have to say that I serve the public servants in my various roles. There have been
the truth is more forthcoming. Both the newspaper industry and the state of
instances where I have dealt directly with their constituents, yet it’s not the
California were entering their unfortunate years, so it was a good time to leave.
same as the daily complicated work that legislators and their staff juggle for real people. In my private life, however, I more directly serve the public through
I returned home to Texas and got a great job at a top-10 lobby firm. It was a
my church and through my husband’s own legislative office in my role as his
fascinating time to be in politics because of the major developments following
partner. We are active in the Democratic Party, and we support charities for the
Governor Bush’s departure for Washington and the presidency. I call my three
homeless, animals, and environmental conservation.
years at the firm “boot camp” because those were the most satisfying 60-hour weeks I’ve ever worked.
My husband and I gave our support, both in money and time, to the Obama ReElection Campaign. I’m a committed Democrat in a very ‘Red State.’ Through my
My career ambitions lost ground when my son was born and my new desire
clients I’m involved in efforts to stop losing Democratic seats to Republicans.
was to stay at home with the best little person I’d ever met. I couldn’t give up working altogether, and in March of 2005, I launched my consultancy, which
As far as improving our election process I would have to say that I feel we should
meant doing much of the same sort of work, but from home – and in pajamas!
do away with the Electoral College. I feel that it defies the spirit of our Democracy
I’ve been self-employed ever since.
in its ability to override the popular vote on presidential elections. Having said that, I feel that the biggest need by far is campaign finance reform. The error of
Looking back at the two years I spent at Brewster, I realize that had I not gone
code needs to be corrected by the courts so that corporations cannot possess the
to Brewster I would never have accomplished what I have today, nor would I
Constitutional rights of individuals. And finally, I feel that the loophole on soft
have had the opportunity to realize that I was not a misfit after so many years
money needs to be closed to prevent elections from being bought. It is my hope
of struggling with learning disabilities and dyslexia. Brewster taught me how to
that one day our Congressional representatives will find the courage to self-
learn, which is a key step that many public schools skip over.
regulate by putting a stop to our present runaway influence spending.
30
BrewsterConnections – Fall 2012
Nat Sillin ’98
Press Secretary, National Republican Congressional Committee Nat finally reached me from 35,000 feet during a flight from Washington D.C. to San Diego. The last several months were an extremely hectic time for him, as he works 18 hours a day, seven days a week for the 90 days prior to an election. During this time he was focused on Republican House races, including two in New Hampshire both which, a month out from the election, he still considered “toss up” races. During the final weeks leading up to the election, Nat saw very little of his home in downtown Washington, located between the White House and the U.S. Capitol. Nat graduated from the University of Vermont and then did graduate work at the U.S. Navel War College in Newport, Rhode Island. His girlfriend is understanding of his time away and busy schedule, as she, too, is involved in politics. Hoopes: As press secretary for the National Republican Congressional Committee you’d say your job is ... Nat: The best job in politics. Previously I worked for senators and members of
It’s not all politics for Nat Sillin: with a friend in Glacier National Park.
Congress, but as part of a political organization, I now have a latitude that I didn’t have as an official staff member. It’s fun, exciting, and has an impact on
Hoopes: Did the focus of your organization change in the months leading up
the national political landscape. For non-politicos, we’re best known for running
to the elections?
all those negative political TV ads you see during election time. Love or hate
Nat: It’s hard to explain this in a few words, but our focus is to get Republicans
them, they’re effective.
elected to the House. Last cycle we picked up 63 seats in a wave election. Our job is to protect the House majority, and we’re playing offense expanding the
Hoopes: How did you get involved in the politics? Nat: I took courses in political science and right after my time at the Naval War College I went to work for Sen. Judd Gregg of New Hampshire and a few members of Congress, but after a few years I decided this work would be more exciting, make more of an impact. We’re political operatives and we’re in the business of winning and covering the national landscape. My educational background really isn’t applicable. Sure I studied economics and took grad courses in naval warfare, but political operatives come from a broad swath of academic backgrounds, and we’re a unique bunch. Hoopes: Describe your typical day. Nat: Most of the time I’m advising candidates and members of Congress, acting as a spokesman for the committee, working with the media from Florida to Maine. But the days vary and one day recently my first meeting was advising a member of Congress on communication strategy and debate negotiation tactics. My second meeting, however, was a discussion of whether it was feasible to raise money online by having a live stream of junked cars in a field and when we reached our goal the car would blow up live on the web. I don’t think that one
political playing field. We’re looking for seats to pick up as well as making sure our incumbents are re-elected. It’s a zero sum game. You know the other team is hungry, and the scorecard is as visible and as public as it gets. If that doesn’t motivate you, you don’t belong in politics! Hoopes: If you could change one aspect to our election process, what would it be? Nat: Tough question. As one of my candidates likes to say ‘I’m a card carrying realist. It is what it is and you’ve got to play to win.’ I do think that good policy and positive outcomes sometimes suffer because of politics, and that’s deeply frustrating. Hoopes: Do you think what you do improves the direction in which the country is going? Nat: Sure, that’s why you do what you do. It’s important to be balanced in your opinion, however. I’ve seen the impact of what we do and it’s not insignificant. Still, you can’t lose your perspective. Hoopes: How about a Brewster connection? Was there some experience,
will likely happen, but it illustrates the breadth of activities and the creativity in
some person you met, that helped you realize your potential, may have
our work.
changed your direction? Nat: Without a doubt, Peter Mann had the greatest impact on my BA experience,
Hoopes: Do you consider yourself a public servant?
and he’s in no small way responsible for where I am today. He was my advisor,
Nat: Well, I was when I worked for Sen. Judd, but now as an operative for a na-
mentor, friend – and saving grace. Athletic pursuits and involvement with the
tional party committee that would be a stretch!
Brewster Browser were defining, but I owe Peter a debt of gratitude.
www.brewsteracademy.org
31
HOOPLA Todd Willens ’89 Congressional Chief of Staff
Todd Willens is the chief of staff for U.S. Rep. Steve Pearce of New Mexico, a Republican who represents southern New Mexico. Todd works in Pearce’s Washington office and lives in D.C. with his wife Morna and their children Maxwell, Chase, Genevieve, and Honore.
Hoopes: You attended Brewster for just one year as a PG, but did any experience you had while at the Academy influence your choice of profession? Todd: Well, not a particular course or teacher, but Brewster certainly prepared me for the discipline to organize and work independently. Those skills have certainly affected the way I work as a chief of staff. Brewster is a lot like Washington, with lots of different personalities. The majority of people in Washington are “transplants” from other places around the world, again somewhat like Brewster.
Hoopes: What is your educational background, any ties with the political scene? Todd: Well, I got my bachelors in history at UCLA, but no, no real connections there.
Hoopes: What steered you toward politics? Had you worked in other fields earlier? Todd: Actually it all started with an internship I received in 1991. I got bit by the policy and political bug, and since then I have worked in various rolls, both in the federal government and in the private sector.
Hoopes: Describe a typical day. Todd: No day is typical, other than drinking from the end of a fire hose. Each day Todd Willens ’89 with his family.
brings it’s own set of challenges, along with some unexpected outcomes. We’re constantly dealing with policies and strategies, and depending on what comes up concerning our state, we have to be able to cover things quickly.
Hoopes: If you could change one thing about the country’s election process, Hoopes: Do you consider yourself a public servant?
what would that be?
Todd: Yes, but I never forget that I am “staff”.
Todd: I’d make the congressional term four years rather than the two we now have, and I’d have it run off cycle to the presidential election cycle.
Hoopes: Did the campaign and the election change the focus of your own activities or those of your office?
Hoopes: Do you feel what you do changes or improves the direction in which
Todd: No changes, really, our activities basically remain the same. The House
the country is going?
of Representatives is up for reelection every two years, so unfortunately, the
Todd: Yes, but then again, not all change is good. I hope to be able to improve the
campaigning never stops.
future my children will have.
32
BrewsterConnections – Fall 2012
John Mautz ’89
Legislative Director, U.S. House of Representatives John Mautz is the legislative director for Rep. Howard Coble (R-N.C), who represents North Carolina’s 6th congressional district, in the central portion of the state. John works in Coble’s Washington, DC, office but lives in St. Michael’s, Maryland, with his family and near his brother and parents.
John still helps with the family business, the Carpenter Street Saloon restaurant. He relocated from Edgewater, just south of Annapolis, in May. While his commute to Capitol Hill is 90 minutes each way, John claims it’s heaven living in an area where he can hunt, fish, sail, and be with family and friends.
John’s path to politics began during the summer months while attending the Claude W. Pettit School of Law at Ohio Northern University. He interned with John Mautz ‘89
the House Judiciary Committee, which led to a full-time position after his graduation. Here he served under Chairmen Henry J. Hyde (R-Ill.) and F. James Sensebrenner Jr. (R.-Wis.). John then served in the office of Governor Robert L. Ehrlich in Annapolis, Maryland before joining Rep. Coble’s staff.
committee staff to help prepare legislative initiatives and coordinate two or three congressional caucuses chaired by Coble. Evenings might include receptions
John’s first political experience, however, actual came at Brewster when senior year he was elected president of the Student Council. He quickly points out, however, that was before California voters discovered the recall ballot, or he wouldn’t have lasted a month!
and meetings. Every day is different. Some days he is in committee for the entire day, or he can be in meetings all day. John and the staff also have to respond to all those constituent e-mails as well as traditional letters.
Actually, his tenure was popular as he made arrangements to have pizza delivered
John considers himself a public servant. Working in Congress, unlike some
on campus, worked toward getting student discounts at local merchants, and
other sectors of the federal government, is refreshing because the job must be
was even successful at making some adjustments to study hall hours.
renewed every two years and employees in the legislature realize and appreciate accountability, he said. There is a sense of responsibility and urgency in the
“Brewster was a terrific experience, filled with real people, sharing real ideas, and while it may not have been directly linked to my pursuing law school or working
legislature, which makes work challenging and enjoyable, he added.
in politics, it certainly had a lasting effect on me.” Given his direct experience as a legislative aid, John does not think the Today, when Congress is in session, it’s not unusual for John to receive more
gerrymandering process is good for democracy. It usually does not produce a
than 200 e-mails a day and participate in three or four 30-minute meetings with
result that reflects the people who are drawn into the newly contorted districts.
constituents and industry leaders. He also has to track all floor votes, ranging
He also believes that the two-year term for members of the House is too short.
from as few as four a day to as many as 30 a day. He is responsible for making certain that the staff in both the Washington and North Carolina offices have the information they need to brief the congressman.
Every day that a congressman votes on bills, responds to constituent letters, and places calls is a day that drives the government in the right direction, John said.
He works directly with Coble to make sure the congressman has information
Constituent service is the top priority and every step possible to represent the
needed for meetings, votes, and committee work. John also works with
constituents effectively must be taken, he added.
www.brewsteracademy.org
33
Class Notes 1938
of Brewster’s 1960-1961
Elsie Chesley writes: “I live with my daughter
football team. A native
Deborah. I am 92. My late husband and I traveled
of Bristol, Rhode Island,
extensively throughout the world. My life has been
Rodrigues was a Providence
interesting!”
Journal-Bulletin All-State halfback. He continued
1944
his football career at the
Mary Jane Richardson grew up in Wolfeboro and
University of Rhode Island,
writes that she loved going to Brewster. Mrs. Paige
and after his intercollegiate
in English and Miss Barbara Lewando in ancient
playing days, he taught
history were two of her favorite teachers and led her
at Bristol High School
to earning a degree in history and English and later certification in elementary education and library work from the University of New Hampshire. Mary
Some members of the Class of 1952 gathered at Lois Wyman Carey’s Wolfeboro home during Reunion Weekend. From l to r: Muriel Roberts Massey, Rob Nelson, Bill Coppins, Lois, Fred Goodwin, and Claire Glidden Hlushuk.
and became a legendary wrestling and football coach.
Jane and husband Edwin raised six children in New
Child. Her group makes toys (cloth dolls, stuffed
1962
Hampshire and then retired to Maine where they
animals, jump ropes, games) and provides filler items
Susan (Eldridge) Simpson writes: “I was chosen
live on land settled by her husband’s ancestors, who
for the hygiene kits in each shoe box. This year they
Ossipee 2011 Citizen of the Year and elected
came from Scotland. They have been active in their
will make 350 boxes.
chairman of the Ossipee Old Home Week Committee.”
1954
Linda White writes: “I’m very busy with
1945
Beatrice Lavery-Corf still spends summers in
organizations I belong to. Love to help with them
Patricia Catalfo writes:
Wolfeboro and the rest of the year in Winchester,
all. My special love is our veterans; I belong to The
“Sixty-seven years ago
Massachusetts. “I’m busy watching grandkids (17)
Rodney A.White Sr. #8270 VFW Auxillary (named
this June I graduated
in sports (track, football, soccer), graduations,
from Brewster Academy
weddings; still play tennis and do lots of knitting for
and have been retired
charities.”
communities.
30 years.” She enjoys Muriel Beach ’45 in Rio de Janiero.
trips, her grandsons, and
1957
being blessed with good
Carolyn Roth writes: “My hobby since 1976 has
health. Pat stays busy
been miniature collecting and creating. I now have
with Red Hatters, movies, and enjoying every day.
a website featuring my 12 completed miniature buildings.”
1949 Dorothy “Dotty” Woodroof and her husband have
1961
three children, 12 grandchildren, and two great-
Roland Rodrigues was inducted into the Rhode
grandchildren. Dotty is active in her church and
Island Interscholastic League’s Hall of Fame in
enjoys making shoe boxes for Operation Christmas
May 2012. Rodrigues was an outstanding member
34
BrewsterConnections – Fall 2012
George Hodgson ‘59 made this Bobcat blueberry pie with berries from his farm in Maine to share with Kristy Kerin and Mike Cooper.
after my husband) as well as other veteran’s and
controversy surrounding it – from an informed place.
historical groups.”
I miss the practice of law, but I am delighted to be
Recollections
making a contribution in the healthcare community.
1964
I have enjoyed catching up with some Brewster
John “Jake” Carr writes: “Now living in Scarborough,
classmates on Facebook. And I am still trying to talk
Maine. Looking forward to retiring after 44 years in
my youngest son into transferring to Brewster for his
the lumber industry. Been busy boating and fishing
sophomore or junior year – we shall see! Best to all,
on Casco Bay. Also serving as an off-ice official with
Mary Lou”
the American Hockey League in Portland for the Portland Pirates AHL team.”
Teresa Hooper writes: “… after spending time this summer at the International Fabric Tradeshow at
Pamela Judge writes: “As chairman of Wakefield
the Jarvis Center in NYC, my travels will take me to
Heritage Commission, I just received the New
Marrakesh to celebrate the new year. I am looking
Hampshire Preservation Alliance Award 2012 for
forward to the camel races! No, I am not one of the
outstanding education, planning, and advocacy of
jockeys.”
local preservation.”
1979 Marina Tew celebrated her 40th anniversary with a
Jonathan Hopewell, wife Valerie, and their dogs
family get-together in Kauai, Hawaii, in June. “Our
Chester and Lily have moved back to the Lakes
summers are spent in the cool White Mountains of
Region. Jonathan writes that he “quit the software
Arizona escaping the heat of the Valley of the Sun.”
industry after 23 unproductive years and is now making furniture – www.hopewellwoodwork.com.
1966
Commissions are always accepted!”
Charles “Chuck” Goldstein lives in Wellington, Florida, a suburb of West Palm Beach and works
Richard O’Brien writes: “All is well in Denver,
with Keller Williams Realty. Chuck has many fond
Colorado. Hi to everyone!”
memories of Brewster and mentors Dave Pollini, as well as other teachers and coaches, including Pop
Susan (McDonough) Schultes bought a huge log
Whalen, Mal Murray, and Dave Brown. “I feel very
cabin on two acres in the country and is having fun
fortunate to have gone to Brewster and winning
year-round gardening and chasing her Chihauhua
the 1966 Lakes Region Golf Championship. My wife
Skipper. She is hoping to acquire some chickens this
Andee of 39 years is a teacher in Wellington, and our
winter and is loving the Florida life.
son Adam is a graduate of the University of Alabama and Cornell University. Thank you Brewster!”
1980 Michael Adams lives in Grand Junction, Colorado,
1970
and works at the Grand Junction VA Medical Center
Allan Bierweiler lives in Arizona and works for an
as a physician’s assistant. He and Sharon have
Air Force contractor in the security police sector. He
been married 24 years and they have a daughter
plays a lot of golf, has a son, Zachary, three dogs, and
Stephanie, who graduated from the University of
a love of wine.
North Carolina last year.
1977
1981
Mary Lou Ciolfi writes: “Going back to school at
Curtis Garrett writes from Ladera Ranch, Califorina:
age 50 for a master’s in Health Policy has been at
“All’s good here! Playing a little golf and going to
turns wonderful and exhausting! I will finish in the
lacrosse games with my 14-year old son Conner. My
spring and I will look forward to having weekends
son Cole, 20, headed back to Spain for spring break,
back to myself. The good news is that I have been
and my son Chad, 21, is working in sales and living a
able to follow health reform – and all the debate and
block away from Huntington Beach Pier.”
Experienced Alumni Recall Their Brewster Days
Cynthia (Bly) Blandini ‘63 Wolfeboro and North Andover, Massachusetts Cynthia (Bly) Blandini ‘63 offered these recollections about her four years at Brewster – revealing that, despite infrastructure and program enhancements, some things really do stay the same at Brewster. I drove my VW to school and parked behind the Estabrook. Every day we had morning chapel in the Academic Building. We said the Pledge, a prayer, and heard the day’s announcements. We were expected to dress nicely and be respectful to our teachers and fellow students. Day students didn’t eat in Estabrook. I remember going across to Carpenter School to eat lunch (which we brought) and later we had lunch in the Alumni Center (now the Art Center). We worked hard in class. Brewster had three tracks: business education, general education, and college preparatory; I took college prep classes. It wasn’t easy; the teachers were tough on us. No computers, not even calculators! Sports were required and they were fun. I played basketball and softball, and we skied and tobogganed all winter at Abenaki Ski Area. We went to the football, soccer, and hockey games, and watched basketball in the Rogers Gym; it was the thing to do. We had little free time, our days were filled! I was involved in Glee Club, yearbook, and TriHi-Y. We also did community service projects, I remember baking and making baskets. There was a movie theater downtown, a bowling alley, and the drug store had an ice cream soda fountain, which we all loved. Dockside was a popular place, too. Our Headmaster Burtis Vaughan was kind, intelligent, and he always listened to us. The students loved him. He was a man to be proud of, a born teacher who enjoyed his role of teacher more than any other role. We had great respect for our teachers; they were wonderful people – Pop Whalen, Barbara Zulauf, George Hall, Burtis Vaughan, June Tilton, Gertrude Gardiner, Jim Hathcock, Jean Perkins, and so many more! Brewster was a special place filled with special people. Cynthia will celebrate her 50th Reunion in June.
www.brewsteracademy.org
35
Class Notes 1982
1987
working in my ‘backyard’ as it were. Then I’m heading
Louise “Breckie” Hayes-Snow is a legal service
Douglas Irwin lives in Wellesley, Massachusetts,
to the South Pacific and Indonesia for the winter.”
lawyer in Concord, New Hampshire. She and husband
with wife Jennifer and their two children, Charlie and
Richard have two children: Sarah, 13, who is ready to
Winn. He is the vice president of sales for a small
1990
take on the world. “She runs, skis, plays softball, plays
software company.
Abigail Newberry writes: “Jason and I are getting married June, 8, 2013! I am still the director at
the flute, and is teaching herself the piano. Arthur is 10 and keeps life interesting! His primary activity is
Roderic “Scott” Pearman writes: “I had really
the Children’s Center, part of Harwich Ecumenical
hockey. He also loves baseball and plays the sax. We
intended to make it up to BA for the Class of ’87’s
Council for the homeless. Lots of hard work but I
live in a town right outside of Concord with a dog,
25th reunion as I had not been back since 1993.
love every minute. We provide affordable child care
cat, rabbit, and seven chickens. That just about sums
However, the family travelled with me to Kingston,
to working families. I do lots of grant writing and
it up; there isn’t much time for anything else.”
Ontario ... for my MBA graduation ceremonies from
fundraising. Hope all is well, and life is good!”
Queen’s University. I left my wife at home with a
1983
four-year old and a four-month old as I travelled to
Julie Reinhart wrote last spring: “I’m loving life,
Jonathan Hibbard writes: “My hobby of raising
China (twice), the United Kingdom, and South Africa
coaching racing, which is fun. Traveling to Italy this
chickens is going great. Nothing beats fresh eggs.
on a mix of study and business travel so I exhausted
summer to climb in the Dolomites. Saving coins for
I have a big following on Facebook regarding my
all of my hall passes. [I am ] working as the Chief
more adventures.”
‘girls’... Looking forward to my 30th reunion. Hoping
Operating Officer for the Bermuda Hospitals Board
the Class of ‘83 will be there in force. The family
and own my own radio station www.hott1075.
1991
is doing well. My son is now in his senior year of
com. Look me up if you come into town on vacation
Peter Baron of Seattle, Washington, and
college. Where does the time go?”
(rephrase – please come to Bermuda on vacation
Brenda Noiseaux ’96 made an unexpected
as we need the tourism business). ... BA played
Brewster connection through their work with
Alice Matheson was in New Hampshire in
a defining role in my life so by extension so did
AdmissionsQuest and WhippleHill Communications,
September for husband Todd’s daughter and her
many of you; best of luck and see you at 30th. Does
respectively.
step-daughter’s wedding in Jackson. Alice is looking
anyone have contact with Curtis Nelson?” Eugene “Gino” Spelta visited campus in March with
forward to her 30th reunion and says that she can
1989
his wife Beth and son Jacob, 4. After spending the
Kristin Van Wagner was home in Wolfeboro in July
day at Mt. Cranmore teaching Jacob how to ski, they
Evan Shone is a single dad, enjoying his three
and was looking forward to a break after nine weeks
stopped by to say hello to the Palmers. Gino is a
children: Sofia, 12; Bryce, 9; and Andrew, 7. He started
at sea. In the fall she was planning to sail from Nova
police officer in Nahant, Massachusetts.
San Francisco Motor Sports in 2010 and is loving life.
Scotia to Savannah, Georgia, with a possible trip to
still party!
Svalbard, Norway, as well. “I’m looking forward to
1984 Charles Cheney writes: “I have a fantastic job at a cheese factory. Still single. Love going to church where I sing in Praise Team. I will never forget the fun times at Brewster with everyone. Wishing my class all the best.”
1985 Douglas (Rothstein) Kasle writes: “Last May I switched from over 15 years of working with kids to doing pain management (i.e., meditation, changing lifestyle.) I’m still a psychologist but now working in Upper Napa Valley at a residential clinic, growing my skills, helping people, otherwise living the same yoga Cali lifestyle.”
36
BrewsterConnections – Fall 2012
Steve Promislo ’88 with actor Delroy Lindo at the Trey Whitfield Foundation Awards Dinner in July.
Standing (l to r): Sarah Munroe, Courtney Crane Munroe ’88, Jessie Munroe, and Sage Daly Wirth ’88. Sitting (l to r): Ana Munroe, Cyris Hamblett, Porter Wirth, Barb Matthews Hamblett ’88, Teddy Wirth, Jack Wirth, and Willy Hamblett
1992
and terrific weather. I now have an adorable one-
Christopher Crowley is executive producer for
year-old nephew, Benjamin.”
Former Faculty: Where are They?
NBC’s Outside Television, where he is responsible for all original production from concept through
Andreas Ninios writes: “I am now working for Global
execution for the network, which includes Outside
Language Translation on a contract with the State
Television’s morning program Outside Today, as well
Department. I am a Greek instructor (teach Greek to
as the network’s newsmagazine series.
diplomats). Also have two part-time jobs: ushering at the Kennedy Center and coaching soccer to toddlers.
Michael Heinbach writes: “After 11-plus years
Life is good here in Virginia. I love where I live and
of hard work in the sports department at the
have made a nice circle of friends in the Washington
Missoulian, I have finally been offered and have
D.C. area. I really like the proximity to the city as
accepted a full-time position at the newspaper.
well as what Virginia (i.e., vineyards, camping) has
... will be promoted to prep sports editor, a job
to offer.
previously held by positively brilliant writers like Rial Cummings, Kim Briggeman, and Nick Lockridge. I am
Tyler Van Wagner writes: “Things are going well with
truly humbled, honored, and excited beyond words
the Van Wagners. Mollie and I love watching our girls
to have the opportunity to produce content I can
Emma and Elizabeth grow up, but it’s happening
only hope will reach the high standards set by my
so quickly! I have a great job as a business analyst
predecessors/mentors.”
for one of Fidelity’s business units. I got to thinking about my time at BA and how glad I am that I
1993
transferred into Mr. Fahy’s Intro to Economics when
Daniel McCoy lives in Laramie, Wyoming, where he
I did.”
Former faculty and college office deans Shirley Richardson and Dick Weeks with foreign language teacher Bob Simoneau. Weeks was visiting from Colorado.
F
rom time to time requests come
in asking if we know what former faculty members are doing. Most
recently, Rich O’Brien ‘79 wrote me
suggesting an update in Connections on
former faculty so I decided it was time to
go exploring, and I’m happy to share what I
discovered. If you have an update on former faculty not included here, please contact me (Matt Hoopes) on Facebook or islesman@batelnet.com.
Seth and Carrie Ahlborn, 1994-2001 Former faculty members Seth and Carrie
is the assistant director of campus recreation for the University of Wyoming. “I love it here. I’m slowly
1995
working on my master’s in adult and post-secondary
Holly (Brooks) Robinson writes: “I’ve been living in
education. I should complete all in about a year and
Boulder, Colorado, for 15 years, married a great guy,
a half. Work is great and keeps me busy.”
and have a one year-old. Motherhood is amazing. Life is great!”
Ahlborn (P’00 ) report that they now live in Henderson, Nevada. Seth is headmaster at
Henderson International School, and Carrie
is director of annual giving at the University of Nevada Las Vegas Foundation.
Kevin Bradley, English and
1994
drama teacher, 1986-1993
Todd Cadagan writes: “I’ve completely changed
Kevin is teaching
careers. After 15 years of the corporate world, I
English and
figured out that it was not for me. I decided to go to
drama at Trinity-
the culinary school at Le Cordon Bleu in Cambridge,
Pawling School,
Massachusetts. I completed a three-month internship
in Pawling, New York. His wife
at Craft Restaurant in New York City in March 2011.
Julie is director of
They offered me a line cook job that I worked until
admission at Miss
they asked me to move to another restaurant called
Hall’s School
Colicchio. Very pleased with the change of careers.”
in Pittsfield,
Massachusetts.
Peter Hopple writes that he’s doing fine and is
Their son Dan
now running the general contracting business Cape
graduated from
Syracuse University last year and works in
Coastal Builders. His company does residential
marketing for a hospital in Brooklyn, New
construction from Boston to Providence.
York. (kbradley524@gmail.com) Jessica Kirshenbaum writes, “Still doing my thing in Naples, Florida, with my dog Gracie, fabulous friends,
Martha Trepanier ‘83 with Mike Kirschner ‘95, who works with the Chicago Cubs, at Wrigley Field this summer.
continued on page 39
www.brewsteracademy.org
37
Class Notes 1996 Mark Fine wrote, “Reminiscing about BA’s radio station and doing a show with Topher Grace ’97 during the first year of the station’s existence. My two kids, Max, 5, and Mallory, 3, keep me very busy. I’m still working for the Harlem Globtrotters and finished my second year as an adjunct professor at Georgetown, teaching a grad level sports marketing class, which I’ve found really enjoyable.”
1997 Rebekah (Seaman) Levit married Dana Levit in September 2011, and her wife Dana delivered their daughter Reagan Ananais Levit in July. Rebekah
Nick Millette ’99 and the 767 Omni Air International plane he pilots.
received her master’s from Simmons College last spring and is now a licensed clinical social worker and the director of a memory care unit.
San Francisco ever since. I started as a therapist but have been the camp director for the past three years. Working in the Redwoods with amazing kids can
Dennis McNally ’00 with friend Sherri and TJ Palmer during a visit to Brewster last winter.
never be bad. I also love San Francisco and living in
1998 Claire Kastner writes that her first son was 5 in
such a diverse place.”
and I live in South Burlington, Vermont, and are
October, and she is expecing her second child at the end of January.
good friends with him during their time there. Sam
2000 Dennis McNally stopped by Brewster last winter
Nathan Morin has been working for the U.S. Marine
after watching a boys’ varsity hockey game. Peter
Corps training their off-leash bomb sniffing dogs and
Marfione ’99 joined Dennis at the game. Dennis
teaching the Marines how to handle them prior to
recently purchased five acres of tidelands in Prince
deployment to Afghanistan.
Edward Island and has started an oyster cultivation
looking forward to our honeymoon in Ireland come October. We were happy to have some BA alumni attend our wedding: Karolina Hanham ’03 with her fiance Frank; Ben Lord ’03; and my matron of honor Carissa (Vilders) Dube ’03. We are all excited for our 10-year reunion coming up this spring!
business. Robert Gehring writes that he is currently working
Hilary Smith writes: “2012 has been a big year! We bought our first home at the end of March.
2003
at the Volkswagen Group of America as MMI3G+
In May I graduated with a degree in nursing and
Kate Considine writes: “Looking forward to my 10th
project leader and systems test engineer in Belmont,
have subsequently passed my boards. Recently
reunion! Can’t wait to see everyone in June 2013.
California, south of San Francisco.
I secured a job as a medical-surgical nurse at St.
Still in school, finishing my RN and BSN and will
Luke’s University Health Network in Allentown,
finish law school in June 2013. Living in Boston and
Brian Kee is marrying Heather McEldowney in
Pennyslvania.”
praying for a better Red Sox season next year!”
December and Ben Lord will be his best man. Brian is in Army Special Operations and stationed at
1999
Joe Rizzo writes that he is still in Houston selling
Fort Bragg, North Carolina where he is enrolled
Nick Millette ’99 was married in September. He and
medical devices and growing his clothing line
in the Special Forces Qualification course. He
wife Lucy live in Richmond, Virginia, where Nick is a
Backside Five. He misses Brewster and everyone still
recently finished a language school with a language
pilot for Omni Air and Lucy is a preschool teacher.
living up north. Joe is stoked for the 10-year reunion
proficiency in Korean and has about another year
Jake Harrington ’99 and Spencer Weisberg ’99 were
next summer.
of training ahead before moving again to Okinawa, Japan.
in the wedding. Amanda (Wiggins) Slater writes: “I recently married Rebecca Randall writes: “After Middlebury College,
Samuel T. Slater in September. I met Sam through
Ben Lord writes: “After bouncing around a bit and
I went to Smith College to get my masters in social
a fellow friend and BA alumnus Brian Kee ‘03, who
finishing my BA at Plymouth State I have been living
work. I’ve been working for the Boys & Girls Clubs of
attended Norwich University with Sam and became
in Central Maine with my girlfriend since February
38
BrewsterConnections – Fall 2012
Former Faculty continued from page 37 Cy Cook, English teacher, 1978-1982 Cy is in his 22nd year at Choate-Rosemary
2011. I spent the last year and half working for a
Hall, in Wallingford, Connecticut. After nine
years as dean of freshman boys and six years
trailer manufacturer in the area as an outside sales
as English department head, he is now a full-
rep with a focus on our French-speaking clients.
time teacher. His wife Megan also teaches
I recently just started a new position with Colby
English at the school. Their daughter Emma
College in Waterville, Maine, as an assistant director
is a junior and son Evan is in middle school.
of the Colby Fund. I am very excited for the change and look forward to getting going and doing the
Fred Djang, assistant to
headmaster, dean of students,
best that I can as a Mule! I attended Amanda
chair of math department,
Wiggins’ wedding in Vermont in September with
1973-1980
Carissa (Vilders) Dube and Karolina Hanham. I am
Since Fred and wife Martha left Brewster
Brian Kee’s best man at his December wedding in
33 years ago, he has been chair of the math
Charleston, South Carolina.”
department and math teacher at Choate-
Rosemary Hall School. Their children Leslie,
2004
Peter, and Robert all attended Choate, and Fred and Martha are now grandparents to
Josh Sims is an art director at Beam Interactive (www.beamland.com). “I handle Virginia Mobile’s
This summer marked the third annual Farm-to-
online content and am in the process of redesigning
Table Feast to support Global Awareness Local Action (G.A.L.A.), a local nonprofit organization directed by Josh Arnold ’01. Alumni and Development Office staff member Rachael Jeffers ’05 attended the event and the many volunteers who made the event a success included Brewster’s Executive Chef Chris Dill and Kelsey Hammond ’10. Sponsors of the event included Brewster Academy as well as Build it Green New England, a local sustainable building company co-operated by Scott Morgan ’05 and Tyler Reed, both of whom built the 60-foot long hand-hewn white pine table for the feast.
Amanda Wiggins Slater ’03 and husband Sam.
Jennifer, 4 1/2, the daughter of Robert and
wife Jennifer. Fred has no plans to retire from teaching as he says he enjoys it too much. Contact Fred at: fdjang@choate.edu
Lee Eldridge, math teacher, 1980-1982
Lee taught at Princeton Day School in Princeton, New Jersey, for two years
before becoming involved in computer
software applications development. He has worked for Honeywell, AT&T, and the U.S. Department of Labor. He lives in Maine
and now works for Northrop Grumman,
supporting the state’s criminal history and
sex offender registry. He is married and has a stepdaughter. Contact Lee on Facebook.
Brian Fisher, English teacher, 1990-1995
Brian and his wife Virge live in Oxford,
Mississippi. He is director of development and an admissions associate for The
Wolfeboro Boarding School Camp in
Wolfeboro and also is a partner with Peter Baron ‘91 in the online boarding school application business. Virge is a teacher.
Contact Brian at: fishbrian@ms.metrocast.net Mike Goldenberg, athletic trainer, 1985-1986
Since leaving Brewster, Mike has been the
associate athletic director and athletic trainer Doug ’03 and Brooke (Lovett) Shilo ’04 were married in June. They were joined by Jeff Shilo ‘06, Elliot Vrana ‘03, Teddy Oram ‘04, Jamie Mitchell ‘03, and Weston Sager ‘05. In the above photo, Elliot is second from the right and Jeff is fourth from the right. Photo by Emilie Inc.
at the Lawrenceville School in Lawrenceville, continued on page 41
www.brewsteracademy.org
39
Class Notes Noah Schmidt graduated from the University of
Chris Womack writes: “I’m doing well. I interned for
Denver in the spring with a degree in business and
the Falcons this season as a promotional and sales
economics and is now at the DePaul University
intern. Hope all is well in Wolfeboro. Chris planned to
College of Law.
spend the summer in South Korea teaching Korean students English.
Nathaniel Billings is at the University of Vermont,
Franklin Pargh ’03 and wife Lana.
Montpelier, enrolled in the School of Business
Po-Wei Lin is doing well at the University of
Administration and is the goalie for the men’s
Washington where he is majoring in environmental
lacrosse team.
science and resource management and also thinking about a biology major.
virginmobile.com. I’m also doing a lot of art and local videos for musicians.”
Laura Kingston graduated from Champlain College with a degree in mass media and communication.
Ridge Garbutt is at Utica College where he plays
Brooke (Lovett) Shilo writes that she and Doug
She was a finalist for the Madeleine Kunin Public
on the men’s hockey team and is a construction
Shilo ’03 were married on June 2, 2012, at Brooke’s
Service Award and Champlain’s Mary Kay Kennedy
management major.
parent’s house in Tuftonboro. “We had lots of
Service Award. She is working for AmeriCorps
Brewster alums present: Jeff Shilo ’06, Eliot Vrana
VISTA serving at Champlain College’s Center for
Alexandria Comeau purchased her first home and is
’03, Cristin “Teddy” Oram ’04, Jamie Mitchell ’03,
Service and Civic Engagement as mentor program
a junior at the University of New Hampshire.
and Weston Sager ’05.”
coordinator.”
2008
2009
for me since I left Brewster, I’m in my second year
Emily Lesko graduated from St. Joseph’s University
Hanna Pattie is at Stonehill College where
of University, and I’m planning to open my own
in May and has begun a master’s program in education.
she created her own interdisciplinary major in
business in 2015. I’m studying entrepreneurship and
photojournalism (and design) and is on the Stonehill
marketing, and I love it! I’m a sports lover, and I’m
Carl Maltais-Beland writes: “Well, life is really good
Amberlee Jones recently graduated from the Rochester Institute of Technology with a B.S. in American Sign Language English Interpretation.
Equestian team. She competes in Massachusetts and New England Equitation events, including regional championships.
working on a project to help young hockey goalies develop themselves technically and physically. This project is on the track with my Academy St-Louis’ goalie coach with whom I’m working. … I hope to go
2010 Tom Holmstrom just finished his second year at Santa Clara University. Tom spent the summer
back to Brewster next year to see what has changed and to show the beautiful lake to my girlfriend.”
working in commercial real estate in Palo Alto, California. In late summer he went to Africa to work at a conservation facility to teach sustainable farming. He is now studying abroad in Vietnam.
Jeffrey Hauser attends Hobart College, majoring in economics. He completed an intensive three-week Solo Wilderness Medicine Program and is now an EMT. He also took a business statistics course over
Connor Dunn writes: “I have been back at Wake
the summer, and Mr. Lui would be glad to know Jeff
Forest since this fall and am still pre-med and intend
got an A”
to get a BS or possibly BA in biology. I am on the
Teraysa White ’08, Ross Randall ’08, Megan Doyen ’09, Jennifer Clements ’07, Tony Kotpat ’10, Peter Rizzo ’09, and Garn Bunyatratchata ’10 worked for Summer Programs. Ross, Tony, and Garn were teaching assistants in the Thai Royal Scholar program, and Teraysa, Megan, Jenn, and Peter were teaching assistants in Brewster’s Summer Session.
40
BrewsterConnections – Fall 2012
Wake Cheer team ... I hope all is going well for the
2011
Brewster community. If there is anyone looking at
Sophia Ising is studying at the German Sport
Wake and they want someone to talk to about being
University in Cologne and writes that she would
a student here they can always contact me.”
definitely like to study at an American college.
Send us your Class Note, and we will do our best to include it in the next BrewsterConnections: alumninews@brewsteracademy.org
39 Former Faculty continued from page 37 New Jersey. He was elected to the National Athletic Trainers Association’s Board of
Student Voices – Are You Listening?
Directors. His eldest daughter, born while
Mike was at Brewster, is now 26 and works in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania; Samantha, 23,
and Jared, 21, are both in college. His wife Jackie works at the local public school as
By Rachael Jeffers ’05
an instructional assistant. Contact Mike at:
T
mgolden@lawrenceville.org
he alumni have
spoken, letting us
Peter Landre, science teacher,
know that they want
1984-1987
to hear more about and from
Peter and wife Betsy, who also taught at
today’s Brewster students. Do
Brewster, live on Canandaigua Lake in the
they still have dorm meetings?
Finger Lakes region of New York. Peter
What about that favorite English
works for Cornell University Cooperative
class? How does using computers
Extension doing water quality research
improve their learning? Do they
and education, and also directs a local
really feel prepared for life beyond
water quality office. Their son Jon is at the
BA? Does the sunshine off the lake still make students feel lucky to be on this campus?
Luke O’Brien ’13, Juliet Hadley ’15, Charlotte Polk ’15, Taylor Cantrall ’13, Symphany Rochford ’14, and Baldur Dagbjartsson ’14.
University of Michigan and daughter Kristy is a senior in high school. Peter teaches
fly-fishing for L.L. Bean and works with Jon Brown ‘86 maintaining the local mountain
We’re happy to announce the start of an Alumni Student Ambassador program where six
students, seniors, juniors, and sophomores, will work closely with the Alumni and Development
bike club’s trails.
Baldur, Symphany, Juliet, and Charlotte to this new student organization and look forward to
Dick Weeks, college counselor
brewsteracademyblogs.org.
After Brewster Dick founded and was
Representing four states and two countries, these six students are boarders and day students,
Boulder, Colorado, for 16 years. He is now
and math problems, lab experiments and language studies each day, and we can’t wait to see what
in Lafayette, Colorado, where he also
Office to connect with alumni and share their view of life on campus. We welcome Luke, Taylor,
and dean of students, 1982-1987
sharing their perspectives on Brewster life with you through our new Student Voices blog at:
headmaster of the Bridge School, in
athletes, artists and performers, student leaders and tour guides. They are working hard on essays
the vice principal at Catalyst High School
they decide to share about their Brewster experiences.
teaches math. Additionally he is a math
Luke, Taylor, Baldur, Symphany, Juliet, and Charlotte also will assist at local alumni events and
Range Community College. His wife Marty
them at an upcoming event or hear from them via phone, we hope you’ll share your Brewster
the Laradon School in north Denver. Their
and human development tutor at Front
support our class agents by talking with alumni over the phone about life at Brewster. If you see
teaches developmentally disabled teens at
memories with them – they will all be joining the Brewster alumni family soon.
son Casey, 28, is a part-time art teacher
We will include the blog’s link in our monthly alumni e-News The Brewster Monthly, where we
Mackenzie, 25, works at a gift store in
Brewster family.
dick_weeks@hotmail.com
at Broomfield Academy and daughter
share updates from campus and welcome you back each month via e-mail as part of the extended
In Memoriam Class of 1933 Clesson E. Hurn April 29, 2012 Wolfeboro Class of 1941 Franklyn H. Davis July 8, 2012 Melvin Village, New Hampshire
Boulder. Contact Dick at:
Class of 1944 N. Blair Brewster August 27, 2012 Wolfeboro
Class of 1964 Dennis Dodier June 12, 2012 Colchester, Connecticut
Class of 2005 Christopher J. Spencer October 2012 Paget Parish, Bermuda
Class of 1948 Phyllis (Clark) Morgan February 29, 2012 Bristol, New Hampshire
Class of 1983 Megan M. Sweeney November 26, 2012 Portland, Maine
Trustees Emeritus Walter N. (Rink) DeWitt ’54 P’86 September 1, 2012 Sandwich, New Hampshire
Class of 1959 Allen I. Stevens July 25, 2012 Wolfeboro
Class of 1995 Joanna E. Rob March 30, 2012 Rye, New Hampshire
Grant M. Wilson P ’87, ’88 September 10, 2012 Carlisle, Massachusetts
Former Faculty Lawrence P. Bartnick January 18, 2012 Leesburg, Virginia Sarah Copplestone (P ’00, ’03 ’04) May 19, 2012 Roanoke, Virginia
www.brewsteracademy.org
41
In Appreciation Walter “Rink” N. DeWitt ‘54 Rink DeWitt ’54 (P‘86) served on the Brewster Academy Board of Trustees from 1969-1993, serving as president from 1974-1993 and as trustee emeritus from 1993-2010 By Helen Hamilton
T
hroughout its history, Brewster Academy has been a significant, private/public educational institution for learning, in the Wolfeboro region. Rink was a proud graduate of Brewster
Academy and in 1969 when he became aware of the many difficulties the Academy was experiencing, he was asked to join the board of trustees, which he readily accepted. With dwindling student enrollment, faculty retention, and financial resources, Rink understood the essence of Brewster Academy as an educational institution. Rink was an undaunted visionary and a game changer. In 1974 he became the president of the board of trustees, and it was evident his mission was to build Brewster Academy into a viable, high quality educational institution. Soon after he assumed the role of president, Rink asked me to be on the board of trustees because he wanted an educator on the board. Because of another trustee commitment, I declined; however, within three weeks he called to announce that I had joined Brewster’s Board of Trustees! Rink was pragmatic and a realistic “mover and shaker” with good Also at this time, the board became involved in the process of selecting
communications skills, always asking provocative and thoughtful
a new headmaster. Faculty member David M. Smith was appointed
questions. He cared deeply about Brewster Academy and was integral in
headmaster and served with distinction for 30 years.
laying the groundwork for the Academy to develop and grow. Rink was
With his guidance, Rink was the backbone in securing the stability necessary for Brewster to commence its upward mobility, to make inroads in student recruitment, faculty retention, building repairs and maintenance,
the right person at the right time to tackle a difficult, time consuming, volunteer job. He was a motivator with a wonderful sense of humor and a positive attitude.
and sound, steady financial growth and development. He was continually
Rink continued his interest in Brewster with his very capable successors.
active in recruiting for the board as he recognized that the revitalization of
Grant Wilson followed Rink, and Dan Mudge, who came after Grant, is
Brewster would take leaders with a myriad of skills to prosper.
the current president. Rink and Grant passed away within weeks of each
Always in the forefront, was the need to plan for the students, faculty, and administrators to achieve their goals and also move the Academy into
other in the Fall of 2012 (See page 41). They will be missed by all who worked with them.
the rigorous world of independent schools and the 21st century. Along
I consider myself fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with
the way we began to have some financial successes. Brewster was an
faculty and staff, administrators, and members of the board of trustees
innovator in supporting students who needed instructional assistance and
under the leadership of these three dedicated presidents.
bringing technology into the classroom. It was an important process and big step to commit, early on, to the introduction of technology into the
Helen Hamilton was a member of the Brewster Academy Board of Trustees from
academic world.
1974-2011, serving as secretary from 1984-2011.
42
BrewsterConnections – Fall 2012
Photo courtesy of Johnny Bivera
Grant M. Wilson Grant M. Wilson (P’87, ’88) served on the Brewster Academy Board of Trustees from 1986-2001, serving as vice president from 1988-1989, as president from 1989-2001, and as trustee emeritus from 2001-2012 By Daniel T. Mudge
O
n September 9 we lost a transformative leader, a devoted supporter, and a wonderful advocate of the Academy when Grant M. Wilson, beloved husband, father, and friend, passed
away on Cape Cod. Grant began his association with the Academy when he and his wife Helene enrolled their son Grant (’87) and then their daughter Kirsten (’88). As was the case with all the schools his children attended, it wasn’t long before he was approached and agreed to serve on the school’s board of trustees. Grant and Helene had a deep appreciation of the challenge of growing up in today’s world and worked tirelessly through various avenues to make a difference in their affiliations. After joining the board, Grant quickly
shared retirement through world travels, family celebrations, and annual
formed a strong partnership with Headmaster David M. Smith and for 13
summer visits to Chatham.
years navigated through a comprehensive and systemic educational shift in program at Brewster. David recalls, “At each crucial juncture, Grant
Through Grant’s 15 years of service on the board he maintained a role on
would first understand and contribute his advice collaboratively and then
the executive committee, served as chair of the development committee,
he would pass that understanding and advocacy on to the board.”
and participated on finance, board resources, and facilities planning committees, bringing his talent and practical business experiences to all
Many would say that Grant remained on the board because he
institutional decision making.
appreciated the commitment and entrepreneurial sprit that drove the Academy. He would often provide the leadership gift needed to enable
Grant was an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and dedicated community
and invest in that direction with his financial support. David fondly
leader. He enthusiastically approached his work and his life adventures
remembers a conversation with Grant regarding his support of the school
with vigor and was well regarded by his peers as an innovative
where Grant told him: “You have never asked me for anything. The only
investor. Brewster Academy was so fortunate to be a beneficiary of his
thing you have done was allow me to partner with you in what you are
extraordinary commitment and leadership. We will sadly miss him but
doing and for that I am grateful.”
celebrate his presence with our continued commitment to being the most successful and responsive educational community we can be.
Their partnership at Brewster led to a close friendship for Grant, David, Helene, and David’s wife Sheila that brought them together in their
Daniel T. Mudge (P’98, ’02) is the chairman of Brewster’s Board of Trustees.
LIVE LEARN LEAD www.brewsteracademy.org
43
History History
History History Writing
History Brewster’s
ca 1890 e Estabrook, cir
The “Ac” and th
Estabrook’s Design for the First Campus Houses, 1890-1903 Arthur F. Estabrook often accompanied John Brewster and son William to
Brick and Mortar: the Buildings of Brewster
Wolfeboro during the summers for relaxation, reflection, fishing, hunting,
By Robert and Shirley Richardson
and the hot city. It was perhaps during these visits that a love affair with
I
swimming, and birding. While staying in the village they often visited with Dr. Henry Libby and probably were guests at the Pavilion Hotel just on the edge of campus where the Civil War monument stands today. With their wives, they would enjoy the pastoral life and time away from Boston Wolfeboro and Lake Winnipesaukee and its tranquil unspoiled scenery
n May 2010, as we neared completion of the research, writing, and publication of The Brewster Story, we began to turn our attention to the history of the buildings, halls, and roadways of the Academy campus.
When the original Academic Building burned in 1903, almost all records and information about the early years of the school were lost. In an effort to avoid
took hold. Over these summers it’s possible that the group contemplated building a school for the children of Wolfeboro and Tuftonboro to provide them with an educational opportunity that otherwise might not have been available to them in this rural area.
another catastrophe of missing files and given the abundance of materials we sifted through during our book research, we knew this was the time to pull together
As we researched the history of the more than 40 campus buildings, we
as many documents and records that could be located and compiled into a rich
discovered that the Estabrook was one of the first residential structures to
history of the Academy’s facilities, greens, and roadways. This new document
take its place at the heart of the Brewster Academy campus. In 1887, just
would complement The Brewster Story and preserve more of the school’s history.
after John’s death, Arthur purchased a piece of land from Daniel Pickering on which to build his handsome summer home on the hill overlooking
About the time we began this project, we discovered that Harrison Moore ’46,
Lake Winnipesaukee.
a retired Marine who served on the Brewster staff for many years, had spent decades researching Wolfeboro’s old homes and buildings. Later this hobby and
Soon after, in 1888, the John Brewster Trust acquired a large track of land
his fondness for Brewster Academy led him to frame an initial history of campus
from the heirs of Daniel Pickering, Caroline and Charles Rollins, on which
residences and buildings.
to build the school in Wolfeboro that John had made provisions for in his 1886 will. Estabrook became one of the three original Brewster Academy
Moore’s edited writings, accompanied by our broad research and annotations, follow
Trustees, and his new home would shortly become part of the Academy
in alphabetical order, usually by their current names. Cross-references are also given
mall and sit just to the left of the main Academic Building (to be built in
to some long-standing buildings whose names have changed over the years.
1890). As trustee and a competent businessman, Estabrook immediately began laying the foundation for fulfilling the vision of John Brewster.
Here and in the next few issues of Connections we will present histories of Brewster’s facilities and include an illustrated map showing the chronological
More buildings and homes were to come as Estabrook set out to acquire
growth and development of the campus. We anticipate compiling these into a
several other buildings along Main Street. He believed that two buildings
complementary booklet to The Brewster Story.
on Main Street, Lord and Kimball houses, would greatly expand the school
44
BrewsterConnections – Fall 2012
facilities. With this in mind, all of the existing homes along this part of
markedly different from the one before. A large three-story structure
Main Street – the Kenison, Gilman, Hersey, Cook, and Avery houses –
covered by a hipped roof covered, the ground floor opened to the lakeside
would either be moved or torn down to make room for the newly built
and would house a recreation room, two large locker rooms, a manual
Lord and Kimball houses; only Haines House and Doe House (now Main
training room, separate toilet rooms, a boiler room, and a coal bunker area.
Street dorm) would remain. The first floor held an office for the principal, a teachers’ room, and six large Let us consider the halls and houses in the chronological order as they
class/recitation rooms. The second floor was noted for the large assembly
began to appear on the newly acquired land that would become Brewster
hall, which included a platform stage for presentations and which would
Academy.
become known as the chapel. At each end of the floor were two classrooms with a science laboratory on the south side and an art room on the north
Academic Building, 1887-1890
end. Two recitation rooms were placed over the front entrance hall; these
For 125 years, since shortly after the founding of Brewster Academy, an
rooms later became the first library. The red brick of the old building had
Academic Building (sometimes also referred to as the Main Building or
been replaced with a much brighter gray-tan brick. True to the Neo-Greco
the “Ac”) has been a focal point for both the Academy and the town.
style, four large concrete pillars supported the roofline and the entrance to
The first Academic Building, constructed in a Neo-Gothic style between
the building. Over the years, many additions and changes would be made
1887-1890, was a rich red brick structure located on almost the same plot
to the Academic Building as curriculum and enrollment dictated.
as the present building, although much different in style. The south wing was constructed first with plans for the later addition of two adjoining
The Estabrook, 1889-1890
sections: a large main entrance hall and a connecting north wing which
Of the five original homes, Estabrook, Lord, Kimball, Doe, and Haines,
would be identical to the south wing structure. When enrollment reached
the Estabrook has undergone the most significant changes. Serving as a
150 students and the anticipated increase in tuition income permitted,
bed and breakfast; surviving a major fire in 1897; serving as home to both
these additions would be built.
male and female students; and housing social rooms and a small dining room for boarding students and faculty only were among its earliest roles.
The four-story building included recitation rooms, science laboratories,
Beginning in 1955 through 2005, the building was expanded with dramatic
office spaces, and rest rooms. Windows were tall and large and chimneys
changes to the dining area and kitchen and a newly designed foyer and
rose high above the roof.
stairway. It also became home to the Campus Store, the Summer Programs Office, and the Spaulding-Emerson Student Center. Faculty apartments
It was first occupied in March 1890, but at 3:15 a.m., Monday, November 2,
underwent remodeling.
1903, just 13 years after its completion, neighbors on Green Street awakened to the sight of flames bursting from the windows on the south side of the
Although there have been many changes to Estabrook over the years, the
building. William J. Britton, ’92, sounded the alarm from the S.W. Clow
outside still retains its original beauty and is one of the most central and
Company Engine House. Attempts to halt the spread of flames were futile,
historically important buildings on campus. Nearly all alumni have spent
and by 5 a.m. all was lost – tables, chairs, shelving, supplies, and office and science equipment. For over a decade, voices of young people and their teachers had been heard chatting and laughing and moving from class to class as they attended to their schedules, but now little remained of the
considerable time in this gracious building and on occasion some still do while enjoying a meal with former classmates, participating in meetings, or attending the annual reunion dinner. The Estabrook takes us back to a time when we were part of campus life.
pride of students and teachers and the symbol of the school. Only the red brick walls were left standing with piles of ashes and rubble at their feet.
Lord House, 1890-1891
No definite cause could be determined.
In 1891, on land
Immediately following the fire, Principal Edwin Lord and the Brewster
by Arthur Estabrook
trustees began plans for replacing the burned out structure. When Lord started out to catch the first morning train to Boston for a meeting with the trustees, he spotted several students lugging their belongings down to the station, thinking there would be no school. He halted them, “Gentlemen, return to your classes immediately. There will be school!” Not a single class
purchased and prepared for the expansion of the newly forming Academy, Alexander J. MacDonald built Lord House where the old Lincoln house once
would be missed because of the fire.
stood. This would become
Soon a new building began to emerge from the ashes of the old as the E. P.
Edwin H. Lord and
Cummings & Company of Boston began construction in the early spring of 1904. As the structure emerged, the community saw a new building,
the residence of Principal his family. It is not known why Lord House was built
nt residence of
curre Lord House, the
www.brewsteracademy.org
ol. the Head of Scho
45
facing southeast, while all the other houses faced northeast, but at the time, its central location made it a focus and one of the best-known landmarks along South Main Street. While Lord was principal, the large bay window on the side next to the street was constructed, adding charm and light to the living room. It is said that the window had been built as a surprise for his daughter when she came home for a vacation from Vassar College. In the 1940s, during the administration of Walter Greenall (1935-1942), the house was renovated and the two rooms at the right of the main entrance were combined into one, providing ample space for teas, parties, and student get-togethers. The walls were insulated, new floors were laid in some rooms, and was added and the steps, floor, and sidearm were constructed of red birch. The white columns followed the Greek design used so much in Colonial architecture. About this time, the open porch at
Kimball House now stands. The records do not indicate clearly whether the original house was torn down or moved to another location; but as
the rear of the house was glassed in for a solarium.
soon as the land was cleared, Estabrook began construction on a new
During the summer of 1959, extensive redecorating was planned and
George C. Kimball.
completed. Among other rooms, the study, which had not been occupied for many years, was rejuvenated for added office space. In 1966 after Bearce Hall became the official residence of the headmaster and his family, Lord House underwent significant alterations, providing for faculty family quarters on the first floor and student dormitory rooms on the upper floors. In 1972 after a great deal of discussion, the board of trustees and the administration determined that the Headmaster’s residence should again be located in Lord House. After renovations to accommodate this move, Lord House became the permanent home for the Head of School. In 1984, the kitchen was updated, and, finally, in 2003, significant renovations were made to the kitchen and upstairs bathroom; additional painting and decorating were completed at that time as well. From 1972 until their retirement in 2003, Headmaster David M. Smith, wife Sheila, along with their three boys Timothy ’91, Daniel ’93, and James ’95, lived in Lord House. Head of School Dr. Michael E. Cooper and his wife Andrea now reside in this beautiful home. Lord House continues to be a place where students, faculty, trustees, and visiting guests feel welcomed and are entertained by Brewster’s Head of School and family.
Kimball House, 1890-1891 Arthur Estabrook continued with his Main Street plan and the acquisition of the substantial amount of land that would be needed to fulfill the dream of John Brewster. In 1891, he purchased the house and land where
46
BrewsterConnections – Fall 2012
ildings.
e first campus bu
came one of th
me be ook’s summer ho Arthur F. Estabr
many rooms were redecorated. A Colonial style portico
building, which would house faculty and, in particular, for Professor
Over the years this building has served as a boys’ and girls’ dormitory and as a center for domestic science classes in sewing and cooking. As a Kimball boarding student, Nancy Wales Swaffield ’44, remembers, “The girls always had to sign in and out of the dorm. No radios were permitted in the rooms, but we all would gather in the lounge on Sunday night to listen to “The Shadow.” This was where everyone was on December 7 when the news came over the radio telling of the attack on Pearl Harbor. The atmosphere in Kimball House was very much a family feeling. We had a living room with a piano and often we would sit and sing.” Throughout the years, regular renovations, painting, and redecorating were planned, but in 1991, 100 years after it was built, Kimball House received a major face-lift. The entire interior was gutted and revamped with four rooms on each floor and an additional room over the newly designed student lounge, which connects the dormitory to the faculty living area. Sixteen students now reside in Kimball House. Giving careful scrutiny to the structural design of 1891, the 1991 architect carefully followed the original plan and intent of the builder for a handsome three-story faculty home with views of the lake. In our next Connections article: Haines House and Main Street Dorm (known earlier as Old Bradstreet Doe House, Sargent House, and the original infirmary). 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
Jon Pinckney ’84 helped Brewster win its first (and thus far only) New England Championship sailing title. After his Brewster graduation Pinckney returned
Who will be the next addition to the
to his native southern California for
Hall of Fame?
college and joined the sailing team at
Bobcat Nation –Nominate a former Bobcat to the Brewster Academy Athletics Hall of Fame.
three-time collegiate All-American, and
The Hall of Fame was formed to recognize and honor those men and women who distinguish themselves as outstanding contributors to athletics while at the Academy and who have continued to exemplify the core values of the Brewster principle of integrity, contribution, and service in their personal and professional lives.
the University of California, Irvine. While at UC Irvine, he was an All-American Honorable Mention as a freshman, a won numerous national sailing competitions. He now races Melges 24s and continues to place high in world and national championship races. Rebekah Seaman ’97 is the first woman to be inducted into Brewster’s Athletic Hall of Fame. Before there was a girls’ hockey team at Brewster, Seaman spent four years as the goalie for the boys’ junior varsity team. During this time, she was twice selected as team captain and twice received the MVP Award and once received the Coach’s Award. While
Nominations are due by January 15, 2013. Up to three individuals or two individuals and one team may be selected to be inducted at a ceremony during Reunion Weekend 2013.
at Brewster, she also played for the New Hampshire Select Girls’ Elite Team. She was the only 12-season athlete in her graduating class. She was recruited by Division I Boston College Women’s Ice Hockey Team where she played for two years. Her resume also includes many years of coaching at different levels. Tony Giglio ’70 was a three-season
For full details on the nomination process and for the online form, visit brewsteracademy.org/halloffame
athlete at Brewster, playing football, basketball, and baseball. Pop Whalen, Tony’s football coach shared, “At the end of our season the Boston Globe not only
Questions? Contact Athletic Director Matt Lawlor at 603-569-7115 or matt_lawlor@brewsteracademy.org.
selected Tony as the starting halfback on the all-prep team but named him to what they titled ‘The Best Eleven in New England’. They said he was the best
Celebrate Bobcat Nation!
halfback in New Hampshire in the last 15 years.” During graduation, Giglio received the William Lord Award as the top student/athlete, as well as the Bausch & Lomb award as the top student in science. Recruited by Lafayette College, he won honors as the football team’s most valuable player, and at one point in his junior year he led the nation in total offense.
David Pollini ’57 played soccer, basketball, and baseball
Paul “Pop” Whalen made Brewster
all 12 seasons while attending Brewster. During his senior
history in 2001 by being the first person
year he also played ice hockey at the request of then coach
inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame.
Pop Whalen, thus participating in two varsity sports in one
Pop, as Brewster boys affectionately
season. After Brewster, Pollini continued his athletic pursuits
called him, was Brewster’s first athletic
at Boston University where he played soccer and baseball.
director, and over the years Pop coached
Immediately following college, he moved to the role of
basketball, golf, football, and hockey.
teacher-coach at Brewster. In addition to teaching and
Eleven of his teams won Lakes Region
coaching, Pollini also played golf and in 1967 he became
Championship titles during the 16
the head pro at the nearby Kingswood Golf Club, a position he held until 2004, and in 1971 he became a PGA pro.
seasons that Pop coached hockey at
www.brewsteracademy.org Brewster.
47
T
Who Will You Honor?
his year, as Brewster alumni you have a unique opportunity to support the school and honor the people who made an impact on your time on campus.
Brewster has active alumni from the Class of 1929 all the way to the most recent graduates of the Class of 2012, and we want to hear from you! Every Brewster alum has different memories, life-lessons, and friendships that came from time on campus – who were the people who helped guide you through your Brewster experience?
Mrs. Turner was always a little piece of Peter Friend introduced me to literature
“home” in the Smith Center. She was there
and challenged me to work harder than I
throughout my sister Kori’s sports days and
thought possible: thank you Mr. Friend.
all of mine, always welcoming to incoming
– Jon Siskel ’85
teams, families, and especially the athletes. She always made me feel comfortable, no matter how nervous I was for a race or game, she made me feel at ease and reignited my confidence in an instant. – Bri Gatta ’05 My mentors were kind and thoughtful teachers. I think of them from time to time, the World War II years were not easy for everyone attending Brewster Academy. However, the Academy did their very best to instill the very best education instruction to its students! The awe and the Academy spirit will never leave me. – Stephen Hatch ’48 David Smith was one of “the guys” in his first years at Brewster. He was also the youngest teacher on staff. He was my
I will honor Mr. and Mrs. Fahey, Mr. Friend, Mrs. Fallon,
dorm master in Estabrook, and I drove
and Mr. Snyder, my four years, and the memories. These
Sheila crazy with my loud Grand Funk
teachers were there for me as a person and as a student.
Railroad! David made me feel heard and
They helped me to develop as a student and as a person.
respected (not common in the old days
They gave me confidence and support, cheered me on,
at Brewster,) and he mentored me in my
and were there to help me when I struggled.
thinking process and negotiation skills.
– Elizabeth (Palmer) Traverso ’93
– Peter Sortwell ’72
Give online and share your stories at: brewsteracademy.org/HonorYourMentor As part of Brewster’s history – you know first-hand the impact of caring teachers, individual attention, and the sense of community that’s fostered here on campus. Share your memories of the people who made a difference for you and honor them with a gift supporting Brewster’s Annual Fund. Your participation today will help generations of students form bonds with their mentors tomorrow. 48
BrewsterConnections – Fall 2012
People Make a Difference
Nilsen Arias ’14 (Quito, Ecuador)
Brewster Academy 2012-2013 Board of Trustees Daniel T. Mudge, Chair (Tapley-Ann ’98, Ashley ’02)
David Hadley (Olivia ’12, Juliet ’15)
Arthur W. Coviello Jr., Vice Chair
Michael Keys (Matthew ’04)
Roy C. Ballentine, Treasurer (Brian ’97, Susan ’94) Douglas H. Greeff, Secretary (Hilary ’11) Ronn Bronzetti ’92 C. Richard Carlson Estate Trustee
Leslie N. H. MacLeod (Todd ’97) Barbara Naramore (Maya ’16) Arthur O. Ricci Estate Trustee
David L. Carlson ’54
The Reverend Nancy Spencer Smith Estate Trustee
Candace Crawshaw ’64
Steven R. Webster (Brooke ’08, Tori ’11)
George J. Dohrmann III (George ’05, Geoffrey ’12) Karen W. Fix (Will ’11, Keenan ’13)
Trustee Emeritus
Gabrielle “Bri” J. Gatta ’05 President, Alumni Association
P. Fred Gridley ’53 (Deborah ’81)
Bruce and Shadow Gorrill were always so approachable and always willing to help. Bruce for AP Biology and Shadow’s research help in the library – they were both a great resource throughout my four years. They made me feel confident, prepared, and challenged (in a good way). Along with how incredible they both are outside of Brewster – hockey, traveling, and everything else they do – I’m so grateful to know them! – Bri Gatta ’05
Visit brewsteracademy.org/HonorYourMentor/givenow to make your gift and share your stories.
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BrewsterConnections Fall 2012
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
My Best Self
Inside:
Kai Armstrong on Becoming Her Best Self Girls’ Soccer Wins New England Championship