2025 Winter Inside Browne

INSIDE

BROWNE DECEMBER 2025

THEN

NOW

DECEMBER 2025

in this issue

13

INTRODUCING BROWNE’S 6TH HEAD OF SCHOOL

08

TRACING BROWNE’S LEGACY OF VISION AND GROWTH

2025-2026

FACULTY & STAFF

18

CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2025!

ADMINISTRATIVE TEAM HEAD OF SCHOOL Peggy Otey BUSINESS MANAGER & CFO Ken Marter ASSOCIATE HEAD OF SCHOOL Kim McCue DIRECTOR OF STUDIES Katie Rasmussen DIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT & INSTITUTIONAL GROWTH Mike Sasso DIRECTOR OF DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION & BELONGING AND AUXILIARY PROGRAMS Sky Wright DIRECTOR OF ENROLLMENT Steve Marshall

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BUILDING BELONGING THROUGH CONVERSATION AND CARE BROWNE ACADEMY STRATEGIC PLAN

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37

LOIS FERRER AWARD RECOGNITION

CREATIVE TEAM GRAPHIC DESIGN & COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER Nellie Cooks CONTRIBUTING CONTENT & WRITERS Nellie Cooks Peggy Otey Kim McCue Sky Wright Lucia Schaefer Mike Sasso PUBLICATION PRINTING More Vang PHOTOGRAPHY Stacey Flint Photography Mayway Media Nellie Cooks Mike Sasso

2025-2026 BOARD OF TRUSTEES Browne Academy’s Board of Trustees is responsible for the strategic future of Browne Academy, the fiscal stability of the school, for broad policy, and for selecting and supporting the Head of School. The Head of School is the educational leader, promoting the school’s vision and overseeing daily operations.

Cecelia Prewett Dawn Biggins, Board Chair Ashley Saville Charlie Platt, Vice Chair Chasiti Dawson Smith Peggy Otey, Ex-Officio Marija Zivanovic-Smith Marcus Barnett Patricia St. George Rudy Brioché Danielle Stoddard Julia Ebron Raven White Valerie Hardy John Winstead Will James Peter Aliferis, Trustee Emeritus Joe King John Nash

STATEMENT OF NON-DISCRIMINATION Browne Academy does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, or gender identification in the administration of educational policies, admission policies, financial aid, athletics, or other school-sponsored programs.

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ANNUAL REPORT & BENEFIT RECAP

FROM THE

Head of School Years ago, I read a quote by an unknown author that has stuck with me ever since.

“Let the beauty of what you love be what you do.” For as long as I can remember, all I wanted to be when I grew up was a first-grade teacher and a mother. I’ve always loved children and the beautiful way they see the world. All things are possible when seen through children’s eyes, and I believe that alone has, over the last 40 years, kept my spirit young. As I approach retirement at the end of this year, I can honestly say that during my time at Browne, I have found joy in letting the beauty of what I love… be what I do.

It was the summer of 2013 when I fell in love with Browne Academy. The moment I stepped on campus, I was charmed by the people I met, and after learning more about the curriculum, community, and core values, I couldn’t see myself in any other school. Twelve years later, I know that Browne has given me as much as I have given school. I feel incredible pride in being a part of this amazing school, and serving this community has been one of the greatest joys of my career. The teachers and staff are dedicated to doing what they love, and it shows in the high expectations they set for themselves, each other, and their students. With those high expectations comes the loving support that has historically made our school outshine all others. I tear up listening to our eighthgrade students’ speeches at graduation as they express their appreciation and love for their parents and teachers for the education they have received. And when alums return to visit, I am always thrilled to hear how they remain close to their Browne Academy classmates long after graduation.

The relationships built at Browne are an enduring gift whose value is immeasurable, and an essential element of our school. Browne is celebrating its 85th birthday this year, and every one of us who has been a part of Browne’s rich history has stories of the powerful relationships we built while we were here, and I am certainly no exception. Just like each of you, I am and always will be a Bruin!

Each Head of School contributes their strengths to the institution based on the needs of the school at that given moment. As the 5th Head of School in Browne’s long-standing history, it was an easy transition into this welcoming and inclusive community. With the Board of Trustees’ support and the hard work of the faculty and staff, we have achieved the goals we collectively set in my early years. Browne Academy has grown and changed in so many positive ways during my tenure, and the school's needs now look different from when I joined in 2014.

I could not be more excited to welcome Rob Mitchell as the 6th Head of School at Browne Academy. His wisdom, kindness, collective knowledge of independent schools, and passion for Browne make him the perfect fit for this moment in the school’s history. I feel such a sense of joy knowing that he will build on the success of those who came before him, just as I did when I arrived.

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As you enjoy the following articles, I hope you reflect on the time you spent at Browne and reconnect with us.

Whether it has been a year or forty years since you last visited our campus, we want to hear from you. You are part of who we are today, and we sincerely appreciate you for the contributions you made. Please mark your calendars and join us for two upcoming community events: The Bruin Benefit, Greystone After Dark on April 25, 2026, and the Alumni Family Reunion on Saturday, May 30, 2026. Browne Academy remains the very special place it was when Marion Browne opened the doors as the Brownie School. I hope to welcome you back to campus so that you can see how much we’ve grown and feel how much we’ve remained the same community at heart.

years

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OF INNOVATION, INCLUSION, AND ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE 1941-2026

B

rowne Academy’s story is one of vision, resilience, and joyful discovery. What began more than eight decades ago as Mrs. Marion Browne’s bold experiment in progressive education has grown into a thriving, mission-driven community dedicated to nurturing the whole child.

Mrs. Browne founded the school in 1941 with the belief that every child deserved “a safe, caring environment in which children could learn based on their particular abilities and strengths.” Her ideas were ahead of their time, emphasizing individualized learning, compassion, and curiosity long before those became hallmarks of modern education.

Originally known as the Brownie School, the program began in Arlington, Virginia, before relocating in 1945 to its present campus on Telegraph Road to accommodate growing enrollment. Grades 4 and 5 were added in 1958, further expanding the school’s academic program. By the late 1960s, the school served approximately 150 children in Nursery through Third Grade—a vibrant reflection of Mrs. Browne’s vision of joyful learning and a strong community.

Mrs. Browne passed away in 1967, leaving behind a legacy that continues to shape the school’s culture and philosophy.

Marion Browne, Founder

In 1975, Dr. Lois Robbins Ferrer became Headmistress and ushered in a period of extraordinary growth. Over the next decade, she doubled enrollment, expanded grade levels, and guided Browne into a full elementary and middle school program. In 1987, Browne celebrated its first eighthgrade graduates, marking the beginning of a new era. Dr. Ferrer’s 25-year tenure transformed Browne into the academically rigorous, inclusive, and dynamic school that still bears her imprint today.

Dr. Lois Ferrer

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MS Building Construction

Mr. Mort Dukehart

When Dr. Ferrer retired in 2000, Mr. Mort Dukehart continued her work, guiding Browne through a period of growth and transition that included the opening of the new Middle School building that same year. Mort played a central role in launching the capital campaign for the CAPA (Center for Athletics and Performing Arts), a major investment in the school’s future. Groundbreaking for the CAPA took place on March 14, 2005, and the building officially opened in September 2006, marking a major milestone in Browne’s history.

MS Building

CAPA Groundbreaking & Construction

He was succeeded by Mrs. Margot Durkin, who brought deep experience in advancement and a clear understanding of how to strengthen Browne’s future. A former public-school teacher and independent-school administrator with a strong background in community engagement, Margot approached her work with both strategic clarity and a deep belief in Browne’s core values.

Mrs. Margot N. Durkin

During her tenure, she established the school’s first reserve fund—an essential step toward long-term financial stability—and built meaningful connections within the broader community. She was particularly committed to ensuring that Browne reflected the diversity and inclusiveness that had always been part of its identity. Under her leadership, the school continued to emphasize strong academic foundations, especially in writing and speaking, while nurturing a welcoming environment for families from a wide range of backgrounds.

Margot understood that a thriving school depends on both resources and relationships, and she worked intentionally to strengthen both. Her leadership helped expand Browne’s visibility, deepen its partnerships, and reinforce its reputation as a community where children feel known, supported, and inspired. Her steady guidance ensured that Browne had the tools, stability, and community networks needed to sustain its mission for years to come.

In 2014, Browne welcomed its fifth Head of School, Mrs. Margaret “Peggy” Otey, whose leadership has guided the community through more than a decade of thoughtful growth and transformation.

Mrs. Otey came to Browne from Charlotte Country Day School, where she served as Head of Lower School, bringing with her a wealth of experience in curriculum design, faculty development, and values-driven leadership.

During her tenure, Browne has strengthened its commitment to diversity, character education, and academic excellence while remaining deeply rooted in its founding ideals. Under her leadership, the school also took a bold step forward with the implementation of a flat-rate tuition model for the 2023–2024 school year—at a time when the cost of education was rapidly rising nationwide. This visionary move made a Browne education more accessible while maintaining its hallmark of excellence and reaffirming the school’s original mission: to provide an exceptional educational experience to more families.

The initiative sparked a 14% increase in enrollment and a 30% rise in applications, signaling a renewed sense of momentum and inclusion across the community.

The tuition reset not only expanded access for families but also reinforced Browne’s belief that financial accessibility and academic quality are not opposing goals but complementary pillars of a healthy, forward-thinking school. Mrs. Otey’s steady, compassionate leadership has positioned Browne on a strong foundation for the future—one defined by equity, innovation, and enduring care for the whole child.

Mrs. Peggy Otey, Head of School

Rob and his wife Eunice Mitchell

Rob Mitchell joins as Browne’s sixth Head of School, stepping into a community shaped by courage, care, and a commitment to the whole child.

The Next Chapter at Browne

Now, as the school approaches its 85th year, Browne turns the page once more—welcoming Robert Mitchell as its sixth Head of School.

When Rob and his wife, Eunice, first visited campus, they immediately sensed what so many describe as Browne’s defining quality: a culture of belonging. From the warm greetings in the hallways to the confidence in students’ voices, they saw a community that lives its values every day.

“We’re stepping into a story already in motion,” Rob shared. “And that’s a beautiful place to begin.”

For the Mitchells, that spirit of care is the foundation of a great school. They were struck not only by Browne’s reputation for academic excellence but by how its mission is lived—in the small details, the genuine relationships, and the shared belief that learning and love of community go hand in hand.

That philosophy aligns seamlessly with Rob’s own leadership approach, anchored in five guiding principles: trust, self-accountability, inspiration, service, and modeling. After decades in education and community leadership, Rob believes leadership is built through proximity and presence—being visible, approachable, and deeply engaged in daily life. “Students should see their Head of School,” he said.

“On the playground, in classrooms, in the audience at their performances. That’s where trust is built.”

He enters this new role with the same intentionality that has guided Browne’s leaders for generations.

“This community has a story,” he said. “We’re not here to rewrite it. We’re here to join it with care and humility.”

Rather than rushing to reshape, Rob will begin by listening to teachers, to families, and to students.

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For Mr. Mitchell, education is more than a profession; it’s a calling. He believes academic success must be paired with curiosity, empathy, and courage the qualities that define character and build leaders. “Academic achievement matters,” he said, “but if we’re not nurturing curiosity and compassion, we’re only doing half the work.”

That same belief has long defined Browne’s legacy. From Mrs. Browne’s progressive vision to Dr. Ferrer’s innovation, Mr. Dukehart’s thoughtful guidance, Mrs. Durkin’s forward-thinking leadership, and Mrs. Otey’s steady stewardship, the school’s story has always been one of purpose carried forward through people—leaders who understand that excellence grows best in a culture of care.

Partnership and balance have shaped Rob and Eunice’s lives for nearly thirty years of marriage. Eunice brings her own depth of experience in the arts and equity work, and her creative insight complements Rob’s reflective, forward-thinking nature. Together, they model the kind of authentic collaboration they hope to inspire within Browne’s community—one that blends vision and empathy, tradition and innovation.

Their three adult children—whom they describe with pride as “brilliant, kind, and fully themselves”—are living reflections of the values their parents have modeled all along.

The Mitchells often speak about family as both their foundation and their classroom, a space where honesty, grace, and humor shape every interaction. The qualities they’ve nurtured at home— empathy, curiosity, and courage—mirror the same ideals they now bring to Browne.

Rob’s vision for Browne is one of stewardship and thoughtful growth. He often asks, “How do we prepare students not just for the next grade, but for the world they’ll inherit?” His answer begins with character, creativity, and connection.

He hopes to continue building a school where every student finds their voice, grows in confidence, and leads with purpose. That vision includes empowering teachers as innovators, expanding opportunities for student leadership, and maintaining a balance between academic rigor, creativity, and joy.

Strong communities, Rob believes, build trust by engaging in honest dialogue and approaching challenges with curiosity. “This is about belonging, not arrival,” he shared.

As Browne enters this new chapter, Rob and his family bring with them both gratitude and anticipation—ready to lead with humility, to listen with heart, and to continue the work of shaping a community where every child is known, challenged, and inspired.The story of Browne has always been one of people who believe deeply in what is possible. With Rob at the helm, that legacy of courage and care continues—alive, evolving, and ready for the future.

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ALUMNI family family REUNION SATURDAY 05.30.2026

BROWNE ACADEMY

SAVE THE DATE You’re Invited to a

Retirement n Celebration a Honoring Peggy Otey MONDAY 06.01.2026

STUDENT LED ASSEMBLY | 2:00 PM-3:00 PM TRIBUTES & DROP-IN RECEPTION | 3:30 PM-6:00 PM

*More details to come*

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Logan Brooks, Class of 2021 Alumni Speaker

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HIGH SCHOOL ACCEPTANCES Alexandria City High School Bishop Ireton High School Bishop O’Connell High School British International School Commonwealth Academy Episcopal High School Flint Hill School Foxcroft School Georgetown Visitation School

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Gonzaga College High School Indian Creek School Mercersburg Academy Osbourn Park High School St. John’s College High School St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes School The Madeira School Thomas Edison High School West Potomac High School

RECOGNITION OF AWARDS Jeffrey Brooks Good Sportsmanship Award

Peter V. Aliferis Award

Alex Clain Endowed Award for Performing Arts

Pictured: Mr. Jeffrey Brooks and Graduate Aiden Nash

Pictured: Mr. Peter Aliferis and Graduate Danya Ousman

Pictured: Mrs. Kim McCue and Graduate Alex Thompson

This award is named after former trustee and board chair, Jeff Brooks. Mr. Brooks loved and supported the athletic program at Browne Academy, and he passionately believed that every child should have the opportunity to play sports in middle school. Like all of us, Mr. Brooks loved to win, but he valued strong character and good sportsmanship above all else. This award honors the 8th grade student who exemplifies good sportsmanship in all areas of school life.

This award honors an 8th-grade student who exhibits the qualities of Mr. Aliferis, the first president of the Browne Academy Board of Trustees.

This student demonstrates a passionate love for Browne Academy and great respect for independent school education.

This award honors an 8thgrade student who, over his or her lifetime at Browne Academy, has demonstrated the same passion and commitment to performing arts as Mr. Clain.

The Marion Browne Award appears in the Recognition of Excellence section on page 42.

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Family is defined as “the descendants of a common individual,” but throughout my time at Browne, I’ve learned it’s so much more… Family isn’t just something you are born into, it’s something you create… Family are the people who stand by us, who cheer us on, who love us through struggle, and the people who helped us grow into who we are today… My family is also so much bigger than just blood; it has turned into peers, teachers, and parents I’ve met while here.

-Tatiana Laster (Pictured Right)

At Browne, I have found my best self. I constantly push myself to reach as high as I can towards my goals. I’m not the same girl who once thought “just okay” was enough.

Browne has taught me to always raise my hand as high as I can, to always use 100% effort towards everything. I've learned that hard work can carry me as far as I let it.

-Alix Ares (Pictured Left)

I joined Browne for the last three years of middle school.

To me, Browne has meant being part of a second family away from home—a place where I found genuine support, lasting friendships, and a sense of belonging that goes far beyond academics.

-Dawson Sauls (Pictured Right)

I first walked into this school when I was three—curious about the world, unsure of myself, and probably more focused on my next nap. Eleven years later, I walked across the graduation stage more confident and selfassured, ready for whatever the next chapter of my life would bring—and that’s all thanks to Browne. I went from dreading coming to school to being genuinely excited to walk through the doors and learn something new.

-Lila Sasso (Pictured Left)

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Building Strong Foundations for 85 Years How Browne Academy’s SEL curriculum continues Marion Browne’s vision of belonging while preparing students to lead with empathy, resilience, and purpose.

At Browne Academy, educating the whole child means going beyond academics.

Our Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) program equips students with the tools to navigate life with resilience, empathy, and confidence. From Preschool through Middle School, SEL is not a stand-alone subject but a way of life at Browne— woven into lessons, advisory groups, and community traditions so that character development stands alongside academic growth.

For students, the results are tangible. “One thing that Browne has taught me that I will take to high school is patience,” reflects Miles Porter ’25. “This school shows community, especially in sports and academics. I’ve learned that things take time and nothing will happen right away.” Lessons like these remind us that SEL skills are not simply classroom concepts; they are life lessons students carry forward.

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“Our SEL curriculum is very critical in what we do because it sets the tone for nurturing healthy and happy learners,” explains school counselor Mrs. Serie Haeseler. A cornerstone of this work is Second Step, a nationally recognized, research-based program that offers lessons in empathy, emotional regulation, growth mindset, executive functioning, and problemsolving. What makes Second Step a strong fit for Browne is the way it aligns with the school’s culture: lessons are not isolated activities, but part of the daily rhythm of school life. Students practice these skills in real contexts—during classroom projects, athletic competitions, buddy partnerships, and all-school community meetings—making SEL an integral part of their Browne experience.

In the Lower School, students begin each day with circle time or morning meeting—a chance to ground themselves, greet friends, and hear stories that foster empathy and connection. Teachers also introduce mindfulness strategies, such as pausing to take a breath or reflecting quietly, which help children regulate their emotions and prepare for learning.

Pictured: Mrs. Serie Haeseler (School Counselor) engaged in SEL lesson with 4th Grade Class

Together, these routines provide young students with a foundation of calm, focus, and connection that sets the tone for their day.

Research affirms this approach. A landmark meta-analysis found that students who participated in SEL programs demonstrated an 11 percentile point gain in academic achievement, alongside improvements in classroom behavior and stress management (Durlak et al., 2011). More recent studies confirm that SEL fosters long-term benefits in mental health, relationships, and career readiness.

Acting out our feelings in Music with Mrs. Brandt in JK

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In fact, a 2023 CASEL (Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning) report found that employers consistently rank SEL skills—like communication, problemsolving, and teamwork as essential for workforce success, underscoring the role of SEL in shaping future leaders.

Community building reinforces these skills at every level. The buddy program, which pairs older and younger students, gives children a chance to practice empathy and responsibility across grade levels.

Younger students look up to their buddies, while older students learn leadership and patience through mentorship. These cross-grade relationships embody Browne’s values and bring the SEL curriculum to life in authentic, lasting ways.

SEL also reinforces academic rigor. Through signature projects like We the People, students learn to weigh multiple sides of an argument and engage in respectful civic discourse. For Aiden Nash ’25, this has been especially meaningful: “It taught me how to see perspectives beyond my own,” he explains. More than anything, SEL at Browne fosters a deep sense of belonging.

National data underscores its importance: students who feel connected to school are 54% less likely to engage in risky behaviors (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2019). For Browne students, this comes to life daily. “I was nervous my first day—Will I fit in? Will I make good friends?” remembers Rhythm Pal ’25. “But the moment I entered the school, I was met with warm welcomes from my teachers and classmates who soon became friends.”

That sense of belonging is not incidental; it is part of the foundation Marion Browne envisioned when she established the school nearly a century ago. Her belief that every child should feel known and valued continues to guide Browne’s culture today.

As Browne celebrates its 85th year, this focus on social and emotional learning reflects both tradition and growth. It grows directly out of the school’s founding mission—to nurture the whole child, mind and heart— while embracing research-based practices that prepare students for the future. By embedding SEL into circle time, buddy partnerships, mindfulness practices, cultural exploration, and community traditions, Browne is preparing graduates who are not only academically capable but also empathetic, resilient, and courageous enough to advocate for themselves and others. This is the foundation on which Browne continues to build: a school where students are shaped to become thoughtful leaders and model citizens, ready to contribute to a world that needs them.

CASEL. (2023). Leveraging social and emotional learning for workforce readiness. Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning. https://casel.org Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2019). School connectedness: Strategies for increasing protective factors among youth. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.cdc.gov Durlak, J. A., Weissberg, R. P., Dymnicki, A. B., Taylor, R. D., & Schellinger, K. B. (2011). The impact of enhancing students’ social and emotional learning: A meta-analysis of school-based universal interventions. Child Development, 82(1), 405–432. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.14678624.2010.01564.x

Pictured: 1st & 5th Grade Buddies playing board games in a morning meetup.

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Browne Academy

2024-2028

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STRATEGIC PLAN

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LEVERAGING EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING GOALS

Pillar 2: Provide a challenging curriculum that reflects the diversity, complexity, and challenges of our world, and foster a diverse and inclusive learning culture where all members feel a sense of belonging, value, and respect.

Invest in high-quality, evidencebased professional development to support cross-curricular, experiential learning in all classrooms.

Create a culture where parents and alumni networks understand and engage with the curricular priorities of the school.

Create programmatic opportunities that will empower our students to; address the real-world issues facing their generation, effectively utilize technology as both creators and consumers, and leverage our expansive campus as an outdoor learning lab.

Recruit, retain, develop, and support exceptional and innovative faculty and staff who reflect and respect the rich history of our school and who are committed to the entire student experience.

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FOSTERING HOLISTIC WELLNESS Pillar 4: Facilitate the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of our community members for personal growth and effective learning.

GOALS

Evaluate school practices and policies to determine the impact of each on the health and well-being of our community.

Build upon and intentionally sequence our SEL and wellness curriculums to promote the developmental growth of skills and knowledge over the preschool8th grade years.

Develop a robust and innovative parent education program that uses the latest research on neuroscience, child-development, technology and education to ensure the health and wellness of our students and families.

Develop meaningful and specific assessment and feedback models for students that inspire deep engagement and the lifelong love of learning.

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Threads of Belonging

The Brownie School Vision in Practice

From 1941 to today, belonging has been at the heart of Browne’s culture.

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At Browne Academy, the commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) is not a side project or annual initiative — it’s part of the school’s identity. The DEIB Director and School Counselor have spent the past several years developing a system of support that reaches every corner of campus and every stage of childhood. Their work is rooted in a shared conviction: learning about who we are, how we relate to others, and what it means to participate in community must be continuous and grounded in real experiences.

This approach has become a defining piece of the Browne experience. Students have space for “real talk” — honest, developmentally appropriate conversations about identity, difference, and how their choices affect the community. When conflict arises, they are supported through processes that highlight accountability and care. When leadership opportunities appear, they are encouraged to practice advocacy — not only for themselves but also for classmates who need a voice. These moments aren’t reserved for a particular month or event; they unfold naturally in advisory discussions, classroom activities, buddy partnerships, and whole-school gatherings. Even simple routines, like daily reflections or transitions, reinforce that belonging grows through consistent action.

“This work is about preparing students to show up as their full selves and to recognize the full humanity of others,” shared Ms. Wright, the DEIB Director. “When students feel they belong, they not only grow in confidence but also in compassion and responsibility for their community.”

The roots of this work reach back to Browne’s earliest days. When Marion Browne founded the Brownie School in 1941, she envisioned a place where children would be known, protected, and given the freedom to learn in ways that honored their individuality. That vision still shapes Browne Academy, guiding the school’s thinking about relationships, responsibility, and community life.

Today, that founding ethos shows up in the school’s shared values, the Middle School Honor Code, and the expectations that students and faculty hold for themselves and one another. In Lower School, students explore kindness, respect, and what it means to be a good friend. By Middle School, those early conversations evolve into meaningful discussions about identity, belonging, and how to use one’s influence for good. Whether it’s a disagreement on the playground or a misunderstanding in advisory, staff guide students through conversations that encourage listening, accountability, and repair — reinforcing the truth that belonging is everyone’s responsibility.

As one eighth grader, Tristan, shared, “I hope to better educate myself and others on the ideas that involve DEIB and the state of our nation and world.” His willingness to learn, reflect, and lead captures the spirit of Browne’s approach.

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This year brought new opportunities for student leadership through the launch of the Middle School Diversity Committee. The committee offers a place for students who are passionate about inclusivity to share ideas and shape the school culture in meaningful ways. “I joined because I really like the idea that other people and I can make a difference,” said Kira, a sixth grader. “I hope we can do a big service project to show inclusion.” The committee ensures that student voice is present and powerful, allowing young leaders to contribute directly to Browne’s ongoing efforts to build an inclusive community.

Faculty advisors partner closely with the students, helping them develop projects, plan events, and prepare for larger initiatives such as Browne’s annual MLK Day of Service. This year, a group of eighth graders will also have the opportunity to return to the regional Middle School Diversity Conference at St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes School. There, they will join students from across the area for workshops and conversations intended to deepen understanding and broaden perspective. By sharing new insights & perspectives with their peers, the impact extends beyond the conference experience.

“Middle School is such a formative time,” Ms. Wright reflected.

“Students are eager to ask hard questions, they want to be heard, and they’re ready to lead. Our job is to give them the space, structure, and encouragement to step into that role.”

Through professional development led by the DEIB Director and the Director of Studies, teachers are equipped with tools to bring identity-conscious practices into their classrooms.

One of the anchor resources has been IdentityConscious Educator, a text that challenges educators to examine how identity — their own and their students’ — shapes classroom experiences.

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Faculty have been exploring questions such as: Whose stories are included in our curriculum? Whose are missing?

How do students see themselves reflected in what they learn?

This collective work aligns directly with Pillar 2 of Browne’s Strategic Plan, which prioritizes evidencebased teaching and strong cross-curricular connections.

By deepening their understanding of identity and representation, teachers ensure that Browne’s curriculum reflects the diversity of the world students will grow up to lead.

That same spirit of reflection extends to Browne’s adult community. Embrace, the faculty affinity group launched during Ms. Wright’s first year as DEIB Director and continues to be embedded into the culture as a safe space for colleagues of color to engage in meaningful dialogue about identity, community, and lived experience. These conversations strengthen relationships across campus and help educators model the empathy and authenticity they want students to carry forward.

What began as a partnership between two roles has grown into a culture that touches every part of school life. At its core, this work continues the vision Marion Browne set in motion more than eight decades ago — that every child deserves an excellent education and a true sense of belonging. Eighty-five years later, that belief still shapes Browne Academy, reminding us that community is built not just by what we teach, but by how we live those values together each day.

Recogni t i o n of Excellence

CULTIVATING Confidence, Connection, and Belonging Through the Arts 2025 Lois Ferrer Award Recpient, Lucia Schaefer’s Impact on Browne’s Culture of Excellence

Each spring, Browne Academy honors one faculty member who embodies the vision and values of former Headmistress Dr. Lois Robbins Ferrer—an educator whose leadership helped shape Browne into the thriving, student-centered community it is today. The Lois Ferrer Award celebrates excellence in teaching, commitment to students, and contributions that strengthen the heart of our school. This year, we are proud to recognize Lucia Schaefer, Middle School Music Teacher, for her dedication, creativity, and leadership across every corner of campus.

When you step into Lucia Schaefer’s classroom, Browne’s Core Values of Excellence, Diversity, Character, and Community are not just on display—they are alive. Students gather in a circle, instruments poised, connected through rhythm, collaboration, and mutual respect. Each lesson feels alive—a blend of structure and spontaneity where every voice matters. Lucia’s teaching philosophy centers on trust and empowerment. “Helping students not feel self-conscious takes a sustained effort over time,” she explains. “Fair is not equal—what challenges one student may come easily to another. My role is to find the landing place that’s just outside each musician’s comfort zone.” That delicate balance between encouragement and challenge has become her hallmark.

Colleagues describe Lucia as the embodiment of Browne’s mission: “She exemplifies our core values in everything she does,” one faculty member shared. “Lucia constantly seeks improvement in her craft and quietly leads by example.” Another noted that “things simply wouldn’t get done without her time, effort, and leadership.” Whether orchestrating rehearsals, organizing middle school logistics, or mentoring peers, Lucia’s presence brings harmony to the many moving parts of school life.

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Excellence, for Lucia, is a living practice— something refined through continual learning. She attends and presents at state, regional, and national music education conferences, sharing Browne’s innovative approaches while gaining new inspiration to bring back to her students. “Each time I return, I’m better—as a teacher, as a learner, and as a mentor,” she says. In Lucia’s classroom, non-Western musical traditions hold equal weight alongside Western ones, helping students understand the richness of the global music landscape. “Representation and respect are just as important as rhythm and pitch,” she says. “Every culture contributes something to the song.”

Character development is seamlessly built into her lessons. Students help design their own rubrics, define what quality looks like, and evaluate their performances with honesty and pride. “Lucia creates a powerful learning experience,” one colleague said. “Her love of music and the children she teaches go hand in hand.

Every performance feels like a celebration—not just of creativity and the arts, but of our community.” The trust Lucia builds with her students allows them to take creative risks and learn from mistakes without fear.

“I never force a student to perform or sing alone,” she shares. “Music made together has inherent value. Those who are ready for a solo will step forward when the time feels right.”

Her approach to ensemble learning has lasting impact. Lucia still remembers one group of students who, years later, could recall and play the first piece they learned together. “My eighth graders can still play the Orff piece we did when they were in fifth grade,” she says, smiling. “It reminds me that you never know what will stick with a group of musicians.

Trying new things and seeing what resonates—that’s where the magic happens.”

For Lucia, teaching in Alexandria is both personal and profound. She grew up here, first as a student in Holmes Middle School’s band program, where Mr. Perez sparked her passion for music—a passion later nurtured by her high school choral director, Ms. Dixon, who encouraged her to audition for regional and state choirs. Now, Lucia carries that same torch for her students. “A teacher got me started with encouragement,” she says. “I strive to pay that forward.” Her leadership extends beyond the music room. Whether presenting professional development for faculty or mentoring new teachers, Lucia’s goal remains the same: to help both students and educators grow in curiosity, joy, and creativity. As one colleague summarized, “Lucia makes us all better.”

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What stands out most about Lucia is her deep appreciation for Browne’s people. “I’ve never worked with a more qualified or passionate group of educators,” she says. “Even when we disagree, there’s respect and appreciation that allow us to find solutions. I’ve grown as a person and as a leader because my colleagues care enough to be honest with their feedback.” That sentiment is shared across campus. Lucia is often described as “a passionate and dedicated teacher who goes above and beyond,” “the glue that keeps us organized,” and “a model of positivity, creativity, and collaboration.” Her colleagues trust her, her students adore her, and her leadership continues to ripple through every division.

Receiving the Lois Ferrer Award is, for Lucia, both an honor and an affirmation. “It said loud and clear that the importance of the arts is embedded in Browne’s culture,” she reflects. “I hope my students and colleagues walk away from every interaction knowing that I see them as capable of incredible creativity—and that anyone who’s ever told them they couldn’t sing, dance, act, or create was wrong. However they express themselves is enough. Everyone deserves to experience the joy of the creative process.”

Her passion, patience, and purpose echo the very ideals Dr. Ferrer championed decades ago. Through every lesson, rehearsal, and performance, Lucia Schaefer reminds us that excellence is not about perfection—it’s about growth, connection, and the courage to create something beautiful together.

Congratulations to Teacher Schaefer!

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2025 Marion Browne Award Recipient The Marion Browne Award is presented annually to the Middle School student who most fully embodies Browne Academy’s mission and core values. Named in honor of our founder, the award celebrates the character, integrity, and commitment to community that have shaped our school for 85 years. This year’s recipient, Alix Ares, exemplified these qualities both in and out of the classroom. Her quiet leadership, kindness, and deep sense of responsibility to others set her apart. While Alix excelled academically, it was her genuine care for her peers—her encouragement, her respect, and her joy in celebrating their successes—that made her truly deserving of this honor.

(Pictured left: Ms. McCue and 2025 Graduate Alix Ares)

2025 CSPAN StudentCam Award Recipients Browne Academy celebrated big wins at the C-SPAN StudentCam 2025 competition! Jonathan Brioche took Third Place, Ava Nuckols earned an Honorable Mention, and Danya Ousman received a Behind-the-Scenes Award.

This marks the fifth consecutive year our 8th graders have been recognized in this national competition—continuing a proud and growing tradition of standout storytelling and civic engagement.

(Pictured right: Jonathan Brioché, Danya Ousman, and Ava Nuckols)

7/8th Grade Varsity ABC League Champions!

The Browne Academy 2024-2025 Varsity Boys Basketball team capped off an incredible undefeated season by bringing home the ABC League championship title. Their hard work, teamwork, and determination were evident every time they stepped on the court. We’re proud of our Bruins for an outstanding season and a well-earned victory.

(Pictured left: Coach Copening, Miles Porter, Jonathan Brioché, Ian Yared, Aiden Nash, Chase Montaque, Braxton Williams, Maddox Schutter, Sachio Davis, Michael Landry, Jackson Shapiro, and Tristan LaDonna; Not pictured: Ramsay Quillin) Page 40

GREYSTONE AWARD The Greystone Award honors members of our community who, through their exceptional service, leadership, and significant contributions, have profoundly shaped the future of Browne Academy. Through their service and contributions the Greystone Award recipients have changed the destiny of Browne Academy.

PREVIOUS GREYSTONE AWARD WINNERS

Peter and the late Gwen Aliferis Lisa Balzereit and Chris Hardimon Alonzo Bell Dawn and David Biggins Jacquie and Keith Bloom Deidre Boone Jeff and Lisa Brooks Yolanda Cole Joan and Jeff DeBoer Margot Durkin Julia Ebron Judy England-Joseph

David Germroth Bethann and Leo Horey Karen and Richard Klein Noelle McGlynn Will Nuckols and Cecilia Prewett Charlie Platt and Jennifer Greene Cynthia Rice Sue Schlickeisen Marija Zivanovic-Smith and Allan Smith Patricia St. George and Cornelious Southall Matthew and Kathleen Strottman Gordon and Gay Sullivan

2025 GREYSTONE AWARD RECIPIENTS Marija Zivanovic-Smith and Allan Smith Congratulations to the 2025 Greystone Award Recipients: Marija Zivanovic-Smith and Allan Smith!

Marija and Allan have been cherished members of the Browne Academy family since 2009, when their eldest daughter, Nina, first joined kindergarten. Their youngest, Mila, is a proud member of the Class of 2025.

From the very beginning, Marija and Allan have demonstrated exceptional dedication to our school through their generosity, leadership, and service as active members of the Greystone Society.

Allan, a U.S. Army veteran, has made a lasting impression on our community with his inspiring Veterans Day presentation. His thoughtful message, rooted in Browne’s core values, resonated deeply with students of all ages, instilling pride in both school and country.

Marija has brought her expertise in marketing and communications to Browne’s Board of Trustees since 2022. Her strategic insight was instrumental in crafting the message behind our tuition reset and in redesigning our website to better share the Browne Academy story with prospective families.

Together, Marija and Allan embody the spirit of the Greystone Award — their generosity, vision, and advocacy have helped shape Browne’s growth and strengthen our community. Above all, they consistently share their Browne story throughout the wider community, speaking with heartfelt conviction about the school’s transformative impact on their family.

Thank you, Marija and Allan, for your remarkable commitment to Browne Academy. Your service and philanthropy have truly helped change the destiny of our school.

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Annual Report 2024-2025 Dear Browne Academy Family, On behalf of Browne Academy—our students, teachers, and staff—I want to express our heartfelt gratitude for your incredible generosity during the 2024–2025 fiscal year. Your gifts to the Annual Fund and Bruin Benefit are vital in sustaining the transformative educational experience that defines Browne.

Because of your commitment, we raised $508,000 this year—supporting professional growth opportunities for our dedicated teachers, enriching our curriculum and field trip experiences, enhancing our campus, and providing need-based tuition assistance to make a Browne education accessible to more students.

For 85 years, Browne has been an inclusive community where every student is known, valued, and encouraged to become their best self. Each day, through my interactions with students, families, alumni, and colleagues, I am reminded of how powerful and lasting the Browne experience is.

Thank you for being an essential part of the Browne Academy story. Your belief in our mission and your continued partnership fuel the spirit, excellence, and compassion that make Browne so special.

With gratitude,

Mike Sasso Parent to Lila ’25 & Adeline ’27 Director of Advancement

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Summary of Income & Expenses Income

Expenses

*In Millions

*In Millions

Tuition & Fees

$5.742

Salaries & Benefits

$5.532

Camp

$1.230

Instruction & Program

$.939

Donations

$.508

Facilities

$.631

Interest Income

$.049

Mortgage Interest

$.234

Other Income

$.071

All Other Expenses

$.597

Total Revenue

$7.600

Total Expenses

$7.933

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GRAPHIC BREAKDOWN OF ANNUAL FUND:

Total Raised:

$508,000 Number of Donors

226

MATCHING GIFTS $38,200 in employer matched gifts

GREYSTONE LEVEL ($1,000+) DONORS: HEAD OF SCHOOL CIRCLE ($5,000+) DONORS:

Well-funded endowments are crucial for the financial stability and sustainability of independent schools like Browne Academy. They provide immediate budget support for current students and ensure longterm growth to address future needs.

Established in 2018, thanks to the leadership of Peter Aliferis, our endowment continues to grow, securing Browne's ability to guide and inspire students for the next eighty five years and beyond.The Board has decided to grow

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Browne's endowment to $3 million before drawing upon its interest to support the school's operating needs. Please consider making a gift to the endowment to help us reach this goal.

Browne’s Lifetime Giving Society was established during the school’s 75th anniversary celebration.

The Society is composed of donors who have contributed a total of $75,000 or more to Browne.

LIFETIME GIVING SOCIETY MEMBERS

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Peter and the late Gwen Aliferis

Mr. and Mrs. Leo S. Horey III

The Biggins Family

Mr. and Mrs. Donald C. Klawiter

Jeff and Lisa Brooks

Mr. and Mrs. Richard W. Klein, Jr.

Mr. Neil Byrne

The Otey Family

The Anderson Cheney Family

The Platt Family

Jeff and Joan DeBoer

Mike and Donna Sasso

Mr. David S. Germroth and Ms. Rebecca J. Hudson

General Gordon R. Sullivan and Mrs. Gay Sullivan

Mr. Christopher J. Hardimon and Ms. Lisa M. Balzereit

The Strottman Family

Thank you!

We extend our deepest gratitude to the donors recognized on the following pages for their generous contributions to Browne’s mission through the Annual Fund, Pavilion Appeal, and Benefit Sponsorships from September 1, 2024, through August 31, 2025. Your commitment strengthens our community and creates lasting opportunities for every Browne student.

MARION BROWNE SOCIETY $25,000+ Mr. and Mrs. Marcus Barnett Mr. and Mrs. David Biggins Mrs. Peggy Otey Mr. and Mrs. Michael Sasso UnitedHealth Group

FOUNDER’S CIRCLE $10,000-$24,999 Mr. Peter Aliferis and Ms. Anna Schalk Mr. and Mrs. Rudy Brioché Ms. Julia E. Ebron Mr. and Mrs. Johnathan Howard Mr. Will James and Mr. Tae Dong Kim‑James Mr. Ken Marter Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Merrick Mr. Andrew Sasso Mr. Mike and Mrs. Holly Sasso Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Wachter

HEAD OF SCHOOL’S CIRCLE $5,000-$9,9999 Mr. Xavier Brooks‑El and Mrs. Roslyn G. Brooks Chesapeake Bay Restoration Fund Mr. Thomas and Mrs. Michele Downs Mr. Christopher Faha and Mrs. Leigh Otey Mr. and Mrs. Aiden and Christine Kaskela Mr. and Mrs. Donald C. Klawiter Mr. Tim LaDonna and Dr. Kathleen Settle‑LaDonna The Lowsen Family Ms. Kim C. McCue and Mr. Andrew G. Taylor Dr. Mario Morales and Dr. Alisa Miller Mr. and Mrs. John Nash Nordstrom Mr. Will Nuckols and Ms. Cecelia Prewett Mr. Charles H. Platt and Ms. Jennifer Greene Mr. Allan Smith and Mrs. Marija Zivanovic‑Smith Mr. Jimm and LTC Katie Spannagel Mr. Matthew Textor and Ms. Barbara Wold

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Thank you!

DIRECTOR’S CIRCLE $2,500-$4,999 Agora, Inc. Aiyana Atelier Aesthetic Studio Booz Allen Hamilton Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey D. DeBoer Mr. Chad Erickson and Dr. Krisztina Domjan Exalents Faralyali, Inc. Mr. and Mrs. Kelvin Harris Mr. Stefano Itri and Ms. Emanuela Menichetti Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Jules Ms. Natasha Kollaros COL Christopher J. Lettieri and COL Christine F. Lettieri Mr. Cornelius C. Southall and Ms. Patricia M. St. George Mr. and Mrs. Jason Taub Mr. Yared Tesfaye and Ms. Lina Ali Mr. and Mrs. Ismail Uslu USP Parking Mr. and Mrs. Jim Weakley Mr. Cedric Welch and Ms. Catherine Jenkins Mr. John Winstead and Mrs. Kelly Case

The 1941 CLUB $1,941-$2,499 Mr. Khalid Mahmood and Ms. Maham Akbar Dr. Hayford Anane and Mrs. Pamela Graham Mr. Michael Apriceno and CDR Caroline Rochfort Apriceno Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Lambert Mr. Jacob Miller and Ms. Michele Martorana Stacey Flint Photography Mr. and Mrs. Vincent Vassall

BRUINS’ CIRCLE $1,000-$1,940

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Anonymous Mr. Brian Barber and Mrs. Sarah Senyo‑Barber Mr. and Mrs. Bryan Blitch Mr. Sheryar Akbar and Ms. Lehra Bogino The Brandt Family Mr. Donald Brasfield and Ms. Janet Gomez Mr. Richard Cherry and Dr. Arvenita Cherry CroppMetcalfe Ms. Christine DiBenigno Dr. and Mrs. Calvin S. Ecarma Ms. Dora Edge Mr. Brian Limperopulos and Ms. Lena Feldman Mr. Oliver Gacad and Ms. Aileen Gonzaga Mr. Steven and Mrs. Hannah Gomez Mr. and Mrs. Frederick Haden

Thank you!

BRUINS’ CIRCLE (CONT.) $1,000-$1,940

FRIENDS’ CIRCLE $500-$999

Mr. Christopher J. Hardimon and Ms. Lisa M. Balzereit Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Hess Mr. Casey Hill and Mrs. Gwendolyn Woodley‑Hill Mr. Travis Hunnings and Mrs. Michelle Balthazor Mr. and Mrs. Sulaiman Jalloh Mr. Chad Moore and Mrs. Katie Keegan Moore Mr. Joseph King and Ms. Lori Ranson Lands' End, Inc. CAPT Gerald Lorio and Mrs. Maria Lorio The Marshall Family Merrill Lynch Mr. and Mrs. Eric Moore Dr. Uchenna Nwosu and Dr. Phatsimo Nwosu Mr. Stephen Panepinto Mr. Sage Platt Dr. Peter Plourde and Mrs. Nicole Jones Dr. Bryce Quillin and Dr. Jessica Quillin Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Radford Mr. and Mrs. Jason Rossbach Mr. and Mrs. Eron Sandoval Mr. and Mrs. Tedral Sanford MAJ Mark Saville and Mrs. Ashley Saville Mr. Ian Schutter and Mrs. Kara Schutter Mr. Richard Shanahan and Mr. Michael Tune Mr. Matthew and Mrs. Erin Siraguse Mr. Ernest Smith and Mrs. Chasiti Dawson Smith Mr. and Ms. Bryan and Erin Unger United Way of the National Capital Area Mrs. Abby and Mr. Steve Vopelak Mr. Dwayne White and Ms. Heidi Friedenbach Dr. and Mrs. Andrew E. Wise

Mr. Nebil Adem and Mrs. Amelework Woldselassie Advanced Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery Anonymous COL Rachael Chancey and Lt Col David Chancey Mrs. Cynthia Evans and Mr. Charles Evans Mr. and Mrs. Michael Greene Mr. Stevie Hamilton Mr. and Mrs. William Hatherill Mr. Ivan Iricanin and Ms. Nya Gill King Campbell Poretz Mitchell, PLLC Mrs. Anne C. Landry Ms. Carla Landry Mr. and Mrs. Dana Lawhorne Mr. and Mrs. Back Suk Lee Ms. Sholly Mehrabian Northrop Grumman Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Ajay Pal Parker‑Gray Pediatric Dental Care Pinnacle Group Investment Services Ms. Jeanne Scott and Mr. Steve Gustafson Mr. Omar A. Shiblaq Mr. LeJuan Strickland Mrs. Linda Thomas‑Greenfield and Mr. Lafayette Greenfield Mr. Greg Thompson and Ms. Gabriella Pasek Mr. Amid Vargas and Ms. Arleen Vazquez Ms. Gabrielle Wagner Mr. and Mrs. Adam and Stephanie Ward Mr. Charles Wien and Ms. Alexis Bernstein Mrs. Sandy and Mr. Jon Willen Mrs. Leatrice Worsley Mr. Melvin Worsley and LCDR April Bowen Worsley

Thank you!

RED & GREY CIRCLE UP TO $499 Mr. Jean‑Jacque Ahouansou and Ms. Renee Littleton Anonymous Ms. Monica Arias Mr. Abdul Azeez and Mrs. Brittany Summerlin‑Azeez Ms. Kimberly Benenson Ms. Sherri Berthrong, Esq. Mr. and Mrs. Isaac Boone Box Tops for Education Mr. Meredith and Mrs. Cindy Bragg Mr. Ken Brown and Ms. Susan Scott Mr. Neil Byrne Mr. Paul Campbell Jr. Mr. Parry J. Carlson and Dr. Karen Cochrane Carlson Dr. and Mrs. Eric Cathey Mr. and Mrs. Peter Chen Mrs. Angela Childs and Mrs. Tiffani Childs Mrs. Michele Conklin Mr. Charles A. Copening Costco Wholesale Corporation Ms. Rebecca Culbreth Mr. Brian Dang Mr. and Mrs. Shawn Drumwright Mr. Nicholas C. Evans Ms. Silvia Figueroa The Fogler Duffy Family Mr. and Mrs. Richard W. Foley Ms. Danielle Gerber and Mr. Scott Gerber Global Payments Inc. Mr. Lafayette Greenfield and Mrs. Aida Kebere Mr. Kwame Gyasi and Mrs. Aisha Jolly‑Gyasi Mrs. Seraphina Haeseler

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Ms. Mishell Haines Mr. Stevie Hamilton and Ms. Mayra Alicea‑Torres Mr. and Mrs. Michael Hansen Mr. and Mrs. Doug Hardtmayer Mr. John Horey Mr. Zion Howard Mr. Russ Weiher and Ms. Amanda James Mr. and Mrs. Claude Johnson, Sr. Mr. Carl and Mrs. Rana Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Demetrius Jordan Mr. and Mrs. Juan Juarez Dr. Zura Kakushadze Mr. and Mrs. David Kaskela Mr. Ethan Katz Kellly Benefits The Kerry Family The Kharkar Family Mr. and Mrs. Carl Kirtley Larson Orthodontics Ms. Heather Lee Mr. Ian Lipner and Mrs. Jennifer Lipner Mr. Matthew and Mrs. Molly Luby Mrs. Sharon Lyon Mrs. Florence Manickavasagam Mr. Eric and Mrs. Tiffany March Mr. and Dr. Stephen M. McClain Dr. Jacqueline McDowell and Mr. Paul Burley Mr. and Mrs. Michael McFadden Ms. Jocelyn Melendez Ms. Deborah Merrick Ms. Joan E. Milkovits Mr. Philip Navarro Mr. Brian Ness One Digital Mr. Matthew Parks and Ms. Rainey Astin Mr. D'Juan and Mrs. Alisha Perry Mr. Eric Poweleit and Dr. Laura Fernandez The Quezada Family The Rasmussen Family Mr. and Mrs. Calvin and Marina Robinson The Rojas Family Mr. John Ross Mr. Matthew Rystrom and Dr. Lana Bruney Mr. Charles and Mrs. Lori Sams Lucia Schaefer Ms. Amy Schoolscraft Ms. Mary J. Stoddard Mr. Michael Stovall and Mrs. Melissa Martellotti Stovall Mrs. Becky Todd Mr. and Mrs. Michael Veve Ms. Mykaila Walters Mrs. Delores Weaver Mrs. Jacquie G. Webb Mr. David Willis Mrs. Skyla Wright and Mrs. Annette Cooks

A Bruin Music Festival

BROWNE ACADEMY BENEFIT We are deeply grateful for the incredible generosity and enthusiasm shown at the 2025 Bruin Benefit: Rhythm and Roots. This year’s celebration brought the Browne community together for an unforgettable evening filled with music, laughter, and shared purpose. Guests enjoyed lively performances by No Tie Affair, Professor Lyrical, Lucia Schaefer and The Pinky Pickers, and DJ Mykaila Walters—each adding their own rhythm and energy to a truly special night.

Thanks to your generosity, the event raised an impressive $347,000 in support of Browne Academy—bringing us halfway to our $600,000 goal to transform the parking area behind the middle school into a beautiful outdoor gathering space and pavilion for the entire Browne community.

This new space will serve as a vibrant centerpiece for our campus—hosting outdoor assemblies, performances, classes, lunch, recess, and community events—all designed to deepen the bonds that make Browne so exceptional. This outdoor transformation will include a large 1,600 sq. ft. pavilion, amphitheater seating, a 5,000 sq. ft. patio space and new landscaping.

Beyond its functional benefits, this space will inspire transformative growth and connection within our school community. By offering a flexible, welcoming environment, it will encourage collaboration, creativity, and meaningful interactions among students, faculty, and families alike.

From moments of quiet reflection to joyous celebrations, this space will be a place where memories are made and relationships flourish—a true reflection of Browne’s commitment to nurturing the whole child and fostering a thriving, inclusive community.

If you have not yet had an opportunity and would like to contribute to the pavilion project you may make a secure online contribution using the QR code or contact Mike Sasso in the Advancement Office. https://browneacademy.org/give/donate-online/

BENEFIT VOLUNTEERS We are incredibly grateful to our volunteers who helped make this event a success for our community. Thank you for your time, energy, and support in bringing the night together.

Christine Kaskela

Raven White

Event Chair Steve Gustafson Ashley Saville Renee Littleton Mark Saville Maria Lorio Natahcia Scott Michele Martorana Sarah Senyo-Barber Amber Merrick Erin Siraguse Amber Parker Katie Spannagel Janelle Poindexter Erin and Brian Unger Eric Poweleit Arleen Vazquez Ralph Sampson Vikki Webb Mickey Sauls Barbara Wold

Benefit Chair

Montina Anderson Michelle Balthazor Mike Brandt Rachael Chancey Angela Childs Niky Clark Taryn Crane David Doll Laura Fernandez Janet Gomez

Thank you to our faculty table and ticket sponsors. Your generosity made it possible for our teachers to take part in the evening at no charge.

FACULTY TABLE SPONSORS Christine DiBenigno Dorrit & Ben Lowsen Michael & Donna Sasso

FACULTY TICKET SPONSORS Peter Aliferis & Anna Schalk Michelle Balthazor & Travis Hunnings (2) Kimberly Benenson David & Dawn Biggins Laura Fernandez & Eric Poweleit Stevie Hamilton & Myra Alicea-Torres (2) Christopher & Christine Lettieri (2) Steve & Maggie Marshall Kimberly McCue & Andrew Taylor Amber & Kevin Merrick Will Nuckols & Cecelia Prewett (2) Peggy Otey (2)

Laurie & Jason Rossbach Matthew Rystrom & Lana Bruney (2) Mike & Holly Sasso Jimm & Katie Spannagel (2) Melissa & Michael Stovall Cory & Jason Taub Matthew Textor & Barbara Wold Abby & Steve Vopelak (2) Justin Wharton & Erika Dogan (2) Charles Wien & Alexis Bernstein Sandy Willen (2) John Winstead & Kelly Case

THANK YOU TO OUR BUSINESS SPONSORS!

GOLD LEVEL SPONSORS

SILVER LEVEL SPONSORS

BRONZE LEVEL SPONSORS

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Thank you to the generous donors who raised their paddles in support of our outdoor gather space and pavilion project, bringing us closer to making this dream a reality.

$50,000 $50,000

Andrea & Marcus Barnett David & Dawn Biggins $30,000 $30,000

UnitedHealth Group $25,000 $25,000

Peggy Otey Michael & Donna Sasso $10,000 $10,000

Julia Etheridge Ebron Kenneth Marter Amber & Kevin Merrick Mike & Holly Sasso Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Wachter $5,000 $5,000

Peter Aliferis & Anna Schalk Rudy & Shawna Brioché Chris Faha & Leigh Otey Will James & Tae Dong Kim-James Timothy LaDonna & Kathleen Settle-LaDonna Dorrit & Ben Lowsen

$3,000 $3,000

Chad Erickson & Krisztina Domjan $2,500 $2,500

Stacey Flint Photography Cory & Jason Taub John Winstead & Kelly Case $1,000 $1,000

Pamela & Hayford Anane Sarah & Brian Barber Brittany & Mike Brandt Janet Gomez & Donald Brasfield Steven & Hannah Gomez Akilah & Kelvin Harris Sulaiman & KenYata Jalloh Christine & Aiden Kaskela Natasha Kollaros Maria & Paul Lorio Khalid Mahmood & Maham Akbar Kimberly McCue & Andrew Taylor John & Joy Nash Will Nuckols & Cecelia Prewett Laurie & Jason Rossbach Ian & Kara Schutter Ernest Smith & Chasiti Dawson Smith Jim & Debra Weakley

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$500 $500

$100 $100

Hannah & Steven Gomez Casey Hill & Gwendolyn Woodley-Hill Joseph King & Lori Ranson Dana & Linda Lawhorne Steve & Maggie Marshall Peter Plourde & Nicole Jones Kristin & Ted Sanford Erin & Bryan Unger Gabrielle Wagner & Matthew Colpoys Stephanie & Adam Ward

Nebil Adem & Amelework Woldselassie Monica Arias Kimberly Benenson Cindy & Meredith Bragg Joseph King & Lori Ranson Bonnie & Mike McFadden Kavita & Ajay Pal Jenna & Ryan Radford John Ross Matthew Rystrom & Lana Bruney Lucia Schaefer & Thad Bradley-Lewis Abby & Steve Vopelak Mykaila Walters April Bowen Worsley & Melvin Worsley

$250 $250

Angela & Tiffani Childs Kelly Benefits Larson Orthodontics Jocelyn Melendez One Digital Laura Quezada Abby & Steve Vopelak

CLASS OF 2021!

Congratulations to the Class of 2021! We are so proud of all you’ve accomplished and wish you continued success and growth as you embark on your college journeys!

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life after browne ETHAN LYNCH Class of 2015 After Browne, I earned my bachelor’s degree in psychology from UMBC and am now pursuing a master’s in entrepreneurship, innovation, and leadership. I also returned to the court as an assistant men’s basketball coach at UMBC. (Pictured left)

DANTE CALANDRA Class of 2019 I’m currently a junior at RIT on a Navy ROTC scholarship through Rochester University, majoring in Political Science.

(Pictured right)

MIKAYLA WARE Class of 2015 I graduated from Howard University in 2023 and have been working in the legal recruiting field ever since. I’m currently the Senior Coordinator for Legal Recruiting and Associate Life at Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP in their D.C. office.

(Pictured left)

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life after browne BRIA PECACE Class of 2012 After graduating with degrees in Finance and Art History, I joined Bank of America’s Hedge Fund Origination & Product Management team. I’ve been with the team since 2020 and currently manage origination and serve as product manager for all equity hedge and tax-advantaged hedge funds available to Bank of America wealth clients.

(Pictured right)

MAX BLOOM Class of 2016 I moved to Brooklyn, and my life has shifted in the best ways as I’ve fully immersed myself in the world of design —first through school and now in my career. I’ve also picked up horticulture and herbal farming at home, I’m training for a marathon, and I still love a good night out. I graduated near the top of my class with outstanding academic honors from one of the strongest design programs in the country. The day after graduation, I started my role as a junior designer at a New York City studio—the first designer they’d ever scouted straight out of college. Within six months, I was promoted to a midlevel designer, and I’ve been thriving in the role ever since.

(Pictured left)

HANNAH GOMEZ Class of 2011 I recently welcomed my baby girl, Selah (Pictured right), on 11/07/25. I’m still teaching 2nd grade at Browne Academy, and I love working with our students and helping nurture their love of learning.

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life after browne TANZANIA TAYLOR Class of 2013 I’ve earned two master’s degrees and am the proud mom of a beautiful 2-year-old boy. Our family also includes Honey, my sweet Goldendoodle who brings so much joy to our home. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Graphic Communication and two master’s degrees—one in Strategic Communication and one in Contract and Acquisition Management. I currently serve as a Contract Specialist for the University System of Maryland. Some of my favorite Browne memories center on the friendships I made; I met my best friend here and still keep in touch with classmates. The bond we formed at Browne has truly stayed with me.

(Pictured right)

MILA SMITH Class of 2025 I graduated in 2025, went on to attend Flint Hill, and I’m currently playing varsity volleyball as part of the Class of 2029.

(Pictured below)

CHLOE COVINGTON Class of 2022 I am currently a senior at Bullis school. I have been a leader in the dance program as well as I play volleyball. I will be continuing my education in a science related field, Biology.

(Not pictured)

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! As part of our ongoing celebration of the Browne Academy community, we’d love to share the accomplishments and updates of our alumni in the upcoming edition of the Browne Academy Magazine. Whether you’ve recently graduated or have been on your journey for a while, let us know!

Please take a few moments to fill out our Alumni Update Form and share what you’ve been up to!

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5917 Telegraph Road Alexandria, VA 22310

The Password is… n

Join us on April 25, 2026, for Greystone After Dark: A Speakeasy Soirée, Browne Academy’s annual Bruin Benefit. Step into a night of intrigue, craft cocktails, delectable food, live entertainment, and the best company—the Browne community—coming together to support our students.

Last year, we raised half of our $600,000 goal to transform the space behind the Middle School into a 5,000 sq. ft. pavilion and gathering space. This year, we aim to finish what we started and make this vision a reality.

Mark your calendars—this is one secret you’ll want to uncover.

v n s m m Browne Academy Benefit

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