Board of Trustees

voices of those in the gathering space, making sure that we are consistently remaining curious and expectant of the wonderful things that can happen when we think and work together. Equally important to how we begin gatherings, she maintains that the closure element deserves pointed attention and care, and that it should include an actively shared expression of gratitude for the ways in which we have influenced and held space for one another.

As we begin our 2022–2023 journey this September, I invite us to consider our collective entry into this year and all subsequent gatherings through Priya Parker’s lens. Let us ensure that we make space to understand the why of why we come together; to welcome one another with grace and curiosity; to consider the benefit of the many voices in our midst; and to ensure that our points of closure embody meaning, our values, and the respect and compassion that is true of who we are. Let us consider that in a year where we are embarking upon various exciting and promising ventures, including a meaningful Strategic Planning Process in partnership with Leadership + Design, the art of our gatherings matter and must reflect the vast promise and strength of Brooklyn Friends School.

In advance of all that this year has to offer, I thank you, for your genuine partnership and support. I am certain that we will accomplish what we set out to do simply because we will do so with full spirit and love and in a manner that re-defines our mighty mission.

With gratitude and excitement for the school year ahead,

Crissy Cáceres, Head of School

A Welcome Message from the BFS Board of Trustees

Dear Friends,

It is my pleasure once again to welcome you back to what I fully know will be an exciting year at Brooklyn Friends School. As our community emerges from two years of successfully navigating the global pandemic, I can confidently say that we feel that BFS is stronger than ever. That is a testament to you, our families and our entire colleague body, and for that, I—and the entire Board of Trustees—thanks you. As we begin a new school year, let us remain grounded in the Quaker values that are the pillars of the academic and social-emotional strengths of our school. Together, we will continue our pursuit of excellence—both in philosophy and practice—and proudly look to the light that shines inside each one of our students, colleagues, and our entire community.

In Friendship, Ed Oliver, Chair, Board of Trustees Welcome New All-School Colleagues

We are excited to welcome the following colleagues to all school roles. New colleagues who are assigned to each division are listed in those sections later in this document.

l Jose Arcila, Assistant Director of Facilities & Maintenance l Adam Atherton, All-School Systems Manager & Scheduler l Matt Batastini, General Counsel and Director of Human Resources l Christian Brown, Director of Athletic Program & Vision l Joyce Duverce, Director of Strategic Partnerships and Major Gifts l Kevin Murungi, Director of Global Civic Engagement and Service Learning l Jamie Pine, Associate Director of Admissions & Retention l Melissa Providence, Director of Enrollment Management l Jay Rapp, Assistant Director of Strategic Initiatives and Alumni Relations l Maegen Rose, Director of Library Program and Upper School Librarian l Sharesa Thomas, Athletic Trainer l Naomi Varnis, Associate Director of College Counseling