The Good | Summer 2026 | Vol. 22

Credits

EDITORIAL

Vivianne Fernquist

Editor-in-Chief

Associate Director of Strategic Marketing and Communications + Archivist

Hilary Palmer Rehder ’94

Director of Strategic Marketing and Communications

Jenny Bealmear Communications & Visual Design Manager

DESIGN

Bacio Designs, Inc.

CONTRIBUTORS

Danny Baker Epic Imagery

Gregory JM Kasunich Photography

Danny Moloshok Moloshok Photography

Paula Nucci

Photography

Parent, Student + Teacher Photographers

The Good is Campbell Hall’s award-winning news magazine dedicated to covering people, programs, and events that reflect Campbell Hall’s dynamic school community. Published twice a year, The Good welcomes story ideas and news submissions to communications@ campbellhall.org.

When Students Feel Known, learning sticks

Research consistently shows that students learn best when they feel known, supported, and valued. Rooted in our rich Episcopal tradition and its commitment to whole-child education, this belief has been integral to Campbell Hall since our founding more than 80 years ago. Seeing the “divine spark” in every child is what we do best.

At Campbell Hall, teachers, counselors, learning specialists, and chaplains work collaboratively to ensure every student experiences that level of personal care. Social-emotional learning (SEL) is woven into daily classroom experiences, while programs such as our K-12 council practice, human development, mindfulness, and secondary advisory provide meaningful, structured support for students’ well-being.

As a K-12 school, we have the unique opportunity to know our students over many years, and sometimes across their entire 13-year educational journey. It’s not uncommon to see high school students returning to the elementary school to reconnect with teachers who

knew them as young children. Faculty also show up beyond the classroom, attending games, performances, and events, deepening relationships and reinforcing a strong sense of belonging.

Students are recognized and honored for showing up as their best selves. Middle school students receive hearts when they are “caught in the act” of kindness. In chapel, seniors, eighth graders, and sixth graders share personal reflections of growth and resilience, while the hard work and creativity of students are celebrated through class presentations and performances across the grades.

Beyond the moral imperative to support student wellbeing, there are clear benefits in the classroom. When students feel supported, they are more engaged, more motivated to learn, and better able to connect with others through empathy and understanding.

In a school video, one of our seniors says, “There’s this environment where you feel a moral obligation to do your best and be your best self.” Ultimately, students thrive in environments where they are truly seen and supported for who they are and who they are becoming.

CH Vision in Action

Campbell Hall’s mission-driven strategic plan serves as a roadmap, guiding decision-making and planning for the school’s current and future needs.

The plan outlines five priorities central to Campbell Hall, with specific goals to keep the school focused on achieving them. The following highlights one of these priorities.

A STRATEGIC

Ethical, Spiritual, Social, and Emotional Development

s an Episcopal school grounded in faith and reason, Campbell Hall places ethical and spiritual development at the heart of all we do. This commitment is strengthened by a comprehensive socialemotional development program that supports student well-being, personal growth, and academic success.

CHAPEL

Through Campbell Hall’s unique K-12 chapel program, students gather with peers and faculty to hear stories from the diverse faith traditions, enjoy performances and presentations, and explore questions of the heart and mind. Chapel fosters reflection, connection, and a shared sense of community and purpose.

HUMAN DEVELOPMENT

Our K-12 human development program provides age-appropriate education in mental health, human sexuality, wellness, and social-emotional skills. Students are equipped with important developmental knowledge while engaging in open, honest, and respectful discussions.

SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL LEARNING

Embedded throughout the K-12 curriculum, socialemotional learning is an essential part of a Campbell Hall education. Students develop core competencies that increase well-being, support academic success, and foster resilience.

Facilitated by faculty, K-12 council practice provides a contemplative and supportive space where students can share their feelings, deepen their understanding of themselves and others, and build authentic, healthy relationships.

The secondary school advisory program offers students meaningful opportunities to strengthen connections with peers and faculty mentors within a supportive and nurturing environment.

At Campbell Hall, our commitment to ethical, spiritual, social, and emotional development supports academic achievement while helping students cultivate an innate sense of worth, honor human differences, forge healthy relationships, and contribute to a more compassionate community.

tools for life

SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL

LEARNING IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Through a comprehensive sequence of social-emotional learning programs in the elementary school, students develop selfawareness, learn to regulate their emotions, strengthen communication skills, and discover how to collaborate effectively with peers.

Every elementary grade dedicates one hour each week to socialemotional learning, cultivating an environment where students can express themselves constructively and support one another.

Beginning in kindergarten, students are introduced to the Toolbox program, which builds a shared language and practical strategies for navigating a wide range of emotions. The program encourages children to pause, reflect, and thoughtfully evaluate situations before reacting. “The program is designed to tap into the innate capacity of every child to regulate their emotions and empowers them to manage their own academic success,” explained Elementary School Principal GRETCHEN KEMPF. “Each of the twelve tools is a reminder that within each of us is the power to find an appropriate response.”

Students might use the breathing tool to calm themselves or the garbage can tool to remind them to let small frustrations go. “They come to a place of understanding as they build the foundation for healthy relationships,” said Mrs. Kempf.

“As students learn to articulate their emotions and express aspects of their identities, they build relatability to their classmates and strengthen their sense of belonging.”

The Harmony program, used in kindergarten through third grade, is organized into four core units throughout the school year, focused on being your best self, valuing one another, learning from one another, and communicating effectively. Students develop accountability for their actions and responsibility for their academic work.

By empowering students to articulate their feelings, Harmony fosters agency and centers student voice. “As students learn to articulate their emotions and express aspects of their identities, they build relatability to their classmates and strengthen their sense of belonging,” said KAITLIN MAGOWAN ’09, First Grade Associate Teacher. “This kind of relational proximity can help students retain learning and become more self-motivated in the classroom.”

In fourth through sixth grade, students participate in the Owning Up program, which helps them navigate increasingly complex emotions and social situations. One of the program’s foundational teachings is the distinction

between dignity, which is inherent to every human being, and respect, which is earned.

“Owning Up is a framework we use to reinforce behaviors that help us all be good citizens and friends,” said GARRY CARR, Fifth Grade Humanities Co-Teacher and Intermediate Department Chair. “The three steps we use to navigate a thorny situation are affirming that everyone has a right to dignity, taking ownership of any part you play in a problem, and then locking in by deciding how you want to address the issue.”

These practices teach students to treat others with respect and empathy. “Students learn to advocate for themselves and solve problems on their own, which serves

them as they get older and tackle bigger challenges,” said Mr. Carr.

Taken as a whole, this scaffolded approach to social-emotional learning builds on prior learning while providing students with a consistent framework they can apply across all aspects of their lives, including academics. Interwoven throughout the curriculum and daily school experience, these programs give students continual opportunity to practice these essential skills.

“Strengthening emotional intelligence helps nurture and build community,” said Ms. Magowan. “Students can access these tools for the rest of their lives, preparing them for every stage of their futures.”

BREATHING TOOL

I calm myself and check-in.

QUIET/SAFE PLACE TOOL

I remember my quiet/safe place.

LISTENING TOOL

I listen with my ears, eyes, and heart.

EMPATHY TOOL

I care for others. I care for myself.

PERSONAL SPACE TOOL

I have a right to my space and so do you.

USING OUR WORDS TOOL

I use the “right” words in the “right” way.

GARBAGE CAN TOOL

I let the little things go.

TAKING TIME TOOL

I take time-in and time-away.

PLEASE & THANK YOU TOOL

I treat others with kindness and appreciation.

APOLOGY & FORGIVENESS TOOL

I admit my mistakes and work to forgive yours.

PATIENCE TOOL

I am strong enough to wait.

COURAGE TOOL

I have the courage to do the “right” thing.

THE TOOLBOX PROGRAM

As most parents can attest, seventh grade is a pivotal year for students, marking the start of their transition from childhood toward greater independence, responsibility, and self-discovery.

T IMPACtof SEVENTH GRADE HUMAN DEVELOPMENT The

hrough a yearlong human development program designed by Director of Human Development and Parent Education SARAH HUSS, Campbell Hall seventh grade students gain the tools to better understand the cognitive and physical changes of puberty, deepen their understanding of identity, and develop the agency to confidently achieve personal growth and academic success.

Grounded in decades of research showing that healthy relationships are essential to a satisfying and joyful life, the seventh grade human development curriculum centers on helping students build these fundamental skills. “As students transition into adolescence, peer relationships become central to their lives,” explained Ms. Huss. “Guided by a caring human development teacher, they learn the skills to navigate those relationships.”

The program also addresses key resilience-building competencies directly tied to academic success, including nutrition, sleep, and stress management. “This is a critical time for students to

establish healthy habits that will support them in all aspects of their lives,” said Ms. Huss. “It helps them understand how their bodies work and gives them space to learn about themselves.”

Central to a Campbell Hall education is developing critical thinkers. As students deepen their understanding of themselves, they gain confidence and agency, becoming less reliant on others to shape or validate their opinions. Instead, they learn to trust their own moral compass. “This kind of education is crucial for helping students become the directors of their own lives,” said Ms. Huss. “They practice real and relevant skills in the classroom that help them define and take pride in who they are, enabling them to move confidently through their academic journeys.”

“They practice real and relevant skills in the classroom that help them define and take pride in who they are, enabling them to move confidently through their academic journeys.”

Today, students face a constant onslaught of media messaging and mounting social pressures, making it more important than ever to cultivate a strong sense of self. Through the human development program, students learn to make decisions based on their own values, articulate boundaries, and seek guidance from trusted adults who serve as sounding boards. “By developing this mindset and these tools, students feel better equipped to handle life’s challenges in a productive way,” said Ms. Huss.

As one of the only area schools with a dedicated Human Development department, Campbell Hall recognizes this work as an essential part of its K-12 curriculum, affirming that student well-being and academic achievement are inextricably linked. Taught by child development experts LAUREN FULLER ’12 , PONO KAHALE , and DAMARRIUS THOMPSON , the seventh grade program is tailored to the developmental needs of this age group, with self-reflective projects that help students make meaning of their experiences.

“We want students to take healthy risks, try new things, and willingly challenge themselves academically,” said Ms. Huss. “The human development program is designed to help them do just that.”

How Advisory Supports LEARNING

Campbell Hall’s commitment to whole-child education ensures that students grow across every dimension of their lives. Just as importantly, it creates an environment where learning is optimized through intentional, structured support.

“As advisors, teachers serve as caring mentors, helping students problem solve or simply offering a listening ear.”

The high school advisory program plays a central role in this approach, helping students build essential social-emotional skills that directly support their academic success.

CATHERINE SIPHRON , High School English and Human Development teacher, serves as advisory coordinator, designing a grade-level curriculum that cycles through a range of social-emotional tools and practices, from study strategies to mindfulness exercises. The curriculum is reviewed monthly with High School Principal SHAKIRAT TAYLOR and refined as needed to remain responsive to students’ evolving needs.

Students remain in the same advisory cohort for two years, allowing relationships with peers and faculty to deepen over time. Ms. Siphron explains, “As advisors, teachers serve as caring mentors, helping students problem solve or simply offering a listening ear.” All advisors are trained in council practice and lead guided discussions that create safe, supportive spaces for students to share their thoughts, process experiences, and build connections.

This year, Ms. Taylor introduced a high school advisory read of The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown, encouraging students to explore themes of authenticity, resilience, and purpose. Ms. Siphron, who holds a certification in Mindfulness Facilitation from UCLA’s Mindful Awareness Research Center (MARC) and is the author of an Audible book on mindfulness for teens, emphasizes the connection between wellbeing and learning: “When the nervous system is hijacked, the body often responds with fight, flight, or freeze. In this heightened state, the ability to learn is impaired.”

The program is also designed to meet students where they are developmentally. Throughout the year, targeted mini-programs address

the specific needs of each grade level. Ninth graders focus on team-building activities as they transition into high school with 9th grade Dean DR. LETICIA SANCHEZ recently introducing “fundays” to help students feel grounded and connected. This is enhanced when seniors visit freshman advisories to share their experiences and offer peer guidance. Sophomores meet in small groups with college counselors to gain insight into the college selection and application process, beginning this dialogue early to help them prepare for the road ahead. Juniors participate in drug education sessions led by faculty members DR. STEVE WACHS and ELENA MALONE . Seniors meet with Director of Counseling ANDREW SHAW in the fall to navigate college-related stress, and with Director of Human Development SARAH HUSS in the spring to prepare for the transition to college, including practical guidance on staying safe on campus.

Each cohort has a partner advisory group that they join at various points during the year for

“Students who feel supported are more likely to engage in the classroom.”

community-building activities that expand students’ social networks and strengthen class connections.

Together, these elements create a consistent, trusted space where students develop socialemotional skills, self-care, and confidence. “Students who feel supported are more likely to engage in the classroom,” notes Ms. Siphron. “They learn to trust themselves and one another, making learning more collaborative, meaningful, and enduring. They also begin to understand that setbacks are not permanent and continue building resilience that extends beyond the classroom.”

A Living Flame THE CHAPEL EXPERIENCE

The chapel program is an enduring and beloved part of each student’s Campbell Hall journey, offering the opportunity to deepen spirituality, connect with peers, and find moments of stillness within busy days.

Throughout the year, chapel services honor major religious holidays from around the world. At times, these observances even overlap, as with Passover, Ramadan, and Easter. “This gives students the chance to see the common threads holding world faiths together,” said K-8 Chaplain NORMAN HULL. “They see the recurring themes of hope and begin to understand what we, as humans, share.”

This spirit of inclusion fosters a deep sense of belonging for students and their families. Chapel becomes a space where community members, including students, parents, and faculty, can share meaningful aspects of their identities and traditions. “In a ritualized way, we gather by division, transforming the Garver Gym into a sacred space,” said High School Chaplain JOSEPH COURTNEY . “This spiritual community reflects many faiths and belief systems. We want to honor and celebrate each person’s identity. When students walk into chapel, they know they belong and that they are loved.”

Chapel also provides a platform for student voice. With guidance from the chaplains, students craft and share personal reflections or narratives of growth. “Stories connect us all,” said Chaplain Courtney. “They can serve as mirrors, where we see ourselves reflected, or as windows, offering insight into another person’s lived experiences.” In the elementary and middle school divisions, audience members

are invited to share their reflections on what they’ve learned and how it resonates. “This helps build bridges of understanding among students,” added Chaplain Hull. “It also teaches kids to be courageous in sharing who they are.”

Students take on a variety of leadership roles within chapel, from serving as acolytes, lighting the candles that open each service, to reading scripture as lectors. These opportunities build confidence, particularly in public speaking, as students engage regularly in presentations and shared leadership.

Service and outreach are central to the chapel experience. Annual initiatives include a toy drive benefiting Hillsides, a secondary school drive for essential items supporting MEND (Meet Each Need with Dignity), and elementary presentations supporting the Outreach Gift Fair. The elementary student council

leads the weekly Food on Friday drive, sharing which items are most needed for the North Hollywood Interfaith Food Pantry. Representatives from the pantry visit chapel to speak about their work, and regular prayers for the organization are woven into services, together reinforcing the importance of sustained community engagement. “During chapel, students learn what the needs of their local community are,” said Chaplain Hull. “They learn to care for and about their neighbors in need.”

“This gives students the chance to see the common threads holding world faiths together.”

This outward focus is echoed in the Prayers of the Community, where students collectively hold space for those experiencing hardship, both locally and globally, including ongoing prayers for our sister schools in Haiti. These moments encourage empathy and reflection, helping students consider how they are part of something greater than themselves.

Music, whether through communal singing or student performances, brings an additional dimension of joy and connection to chapel. “Connecting music to liturgy deepens its meaning,” said Chaplain Hull. In the high school, chapel often culminates in a spirited rendition of the alma mater, with students draping arms around each other’s shoulders, stamping their feet, and raising their voices together. “It’s a pure expression of school pride,” said Chaplain Courtney, “bringing Campbell Hall’s history to life.”

Amid academic pressures and the complexities of growing up, chapel offers space for reflection. Moments of silence allow students to pause, reset, and gather their thoughts, whether they are preparing for a test or navigating challenges in their personal lives. In times of loss or uncertainty, chapel also becomes a place of comfort and collective support. “There is a place for everyone in chapel,” said Chaplain Hull.

For many alumni, the chapel experience remains one of their most cherished memories. “There’s a line in the alma mater: ’Campbell Hall will ever stay/a living flame to light the way,’” reflected Chaplain Courtney. “That sense of connection endures because Campbell Hall will always be their home.”

Moving On Up the Hill

SIXTH GRADERS GET AN EARLY INTRODUCTION TO MIDDLE SCHOOL

Sixth grade can bring a mix of emotions as students balance their roles as leaders in the elementary school, celebrate the traditions of childhood, and begin to look forward to middle school.

For decades, Campbell Hall has helped ease this transition through QuickStart, an optional four-day summer program that introduces rising seventh graders to middle school through engaging classes, community-building activities, and opportunities to get to know some of their new teachers. Students become familiar with the rotating block schedule while discovering the freedom of choice-based electives.

This year, sixth graders got an early glimpse of middle school before summer even began. Supported by eighth-grade students, they were guided through an assigned elective with classes ranging from world drumming and cooking to ceramics and basketball skills. After lunch, students attended the middle school chapel followed by a panel of eighth graders who shared insights and answered questions about their experiences.

“The trip up the hill helped the sixth graders start to imagine themselves as middle schoolers and alleviated some of the

nervousness about moving to a different part of campus next year,” said Elementary School Assistant Principal MATT LINTNER. “They each got to participate in a class and begin forming relationships with teachers and other students. The eighth graders were incredibly welcoming.” Students also had the chance to connect with administrators who will support them throughout their middle school journey.

“I got to attend a screenwriting class,” said ARIA H. ’32. “We read from the script for Ratatouille, and also talked about our favorite movies and TV shows. The teacher was very nice, and the eighth graders were friendly and funny.” CRUZ S. ’32 added, “I went to a filmmaking class where we were put into small groups. Each group made a short film.”

Students also appreciated the chance to experience middle school traditions firsthand. “I liked going to middle school chapel, and then hearing from the panel afterward,” said NOAH R. ’32. “We got to ask questions. It was informative and showed us how middle school is going to be.”

Later that week, Middle School Principal KASIOPIA WATTS and Middle School Assistant Principal MINI THARAKKAL hosted their annual meeting for sixth-grade students and families, sharing information about the curriculum, Advisory program, House system, and student life. “Their visit to the middle school helped contextualize the discussion,” said Ms. Tharakkal. “Their comfort level had grown considerably, and they were excited for what comes next.”

Next year, sixth graders will also participate in Discovery Classes — short, introductory classes taught by middle school faculty that are designed to spark curiosity and preview the exciting electives and academic opportunities awaiting them in seventh grade.

“One of the unique features of Campbell Hall is that, while there are distinct spaces for each division, we are one unified campus,” said Mr. Lintner. “We are continuing to strengthen that bridge across divisions to ensure elementary students feel confident and prepared for success in middle school. We are so lucky that we are only separated by a staircase.”

Pitch for Good Turning Ideas into Impact

On March 7, the IDEA (Inquiry, Democracy, Equity, Agency) Center hosted its inaugural Pitch for Good contest in Garver Gym. The program provided a platform for middle and high school students from both Campbell Hall and the Campbell Scholars Program (CSP) to present innovative ideas that aim to make a positive difference in the world.

Based on their areas of interest, more than 115 participants were organized into 20 teams. They workshopped their concepts collaboratively with Campbell Hall alumni and parent mentors, who lent their professional expertise to help shape and refine each pitch.

All attendees, including those who chose not to pitch, were then treated to a panel discussion led by student emcees and entrepreneurs AUSTEN R. ’26, who developed a marketing brand, and SIMILCE S. ’26, who created a swimsuit line focused on body positivity. Both served as engaging hosts throughout the day’s events.

The panel, composed of industry experts and creative leaders, also served as judges. Panelists included ELLEN CHEN (P ’23 & ’26) co-founder of Mendocino Farms, DEVIN JOHNSON (P ’27 & ’31) investor and former president of The SpringHill Company, CHARLES KING (P ’25 & ’27) founder of MACRO, KATIE ROSEN KITCHENS (P ’31 & ’34) co-founder of FabFitFun, YUN LINGNER (P ’28) executive producer of Shark Tank, and DWYANE WADE (P ’25 & ’37) NBA Hall of Famer and investor. They offered insights into realworld transactions, shared how they built their businesses, discussed investment strategies, and recounted firsthand experiences from deals they have led.

Pitch participants then moved into the preliminary rounds, presenting their concepts to the panel, who provided valuable feedback. Six teams advanced to the finals. With limited time to present, students honed the art of the “elevator pitch” while gaining experience in a fast-paced, high-stakes (and Shark Tank-like) environment, skills that will serve them well in college and beyond.

“The pitch contest provided a supportive framework for students to think about solutions to pressing real-world problems,” said Associate Head of School CHRISTOPHER DENNIS, PhD. “This kind of agency and support embodies

the core tenets of the IDEA Center by providing an equitable pathway for students to explore innovative ideas.”

A cross-divisional team of faculty, staff, and administrators planned the events to maximize impact by assembling an impressive panel of experts, organizing teams, and finetuning the day’s agenda. “The pitch contest gave students a chance to prove to themselves that, at any age, they can go the distance in an effort to change the world,” said Dr. Dennis.

Along the way, students built meaningful relationships with one another, connected with professionals in the business world, and, as a fun bonus, left with a FabFitFun box filled with products!

Special thanks to Campbell Scholars Program Director AIDE AGUIRRE, Associate Director of Community Engagement and Partnership VANITA HARBOUR, High School English and Creative Writing teacher and English Department Chair DR. KATHLEEN LAWTON-TRASK, Elementary Assistant Principal MATT LINTNER, Middle School Speech and Debate and English teacher SIERRA SCOGGINS, and Director of High School Student Activities JILLIAN WISEMAN ’10, all of whom helped make the Pitch for Good contest a success.

The IDEA Center is eager to partner with Campbell Hall parents. Have an idea to share or interested in serving as a mentor? Please contact Associate Head of School Christopher Dennis, PhD, at dennisc@campbellhall.org.

A Field Guide to Life

REIMAGINING THE ENGLISH CLASSROOM

Choice, engagement, and creativity are at the heart of High School English teacher JESSICA LEBLANC’s redesign of the English 12 curriculum. Her innovative approach has transformed the course into an engaging exploration of literature through the lens of personal insight and reflection.

In response to pandemicrelated learning loss, the rise of artificial intelligence, and diminishing attention spans shaped by digital and social media, Ms. LeBlanc recognized the need to create new ways for students to engage with the material and with one another.

She turned her classroom into a writing studio, where, similar to an art or science lab designed for experimentation, students can draft, revise, and share their writing in a collaborative environment. Students are given a choice of literature to study, allowing them greater agency to explore different genres and themes while taking ownership of their learning.

Homework focuses on reading and annotating texts, while class time is devoted to small-group and full-class discussions, as well as writing in a low-stakes environment where students are encouraged to take risks and discover their voice.

“I want students to see that writing is an art form that takes practice,” said Ms. LeBlanc, whose studio-style classroom encourages experimentation and creativity. “When students work in a supportive environment where they can make mistakes and receive meaningful feedback, they grow as writers and thinkers.”

Through short exercises, the writing process is demystified and becomes more accessible. Students build confidence as they learn to trust the process. At times, they even write by hand rather than on laptops, helping develop a deeper connection to their work.

Ms. LeBlanc structured the course around stages of life (childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and death), with readings drawn from a range of genres. “Each stage of the course is

reflective and appropriate for where students are in their own lives,” she explained. “We begin with foundational skills and gradually build toward more challenging and rigorous work.”

Creative projects are woven throughout the curriculum, giving students opportunities to connect with literature while using their unique talents. In one imaginative assignment, students design a custom fragrance for a character in a novel, write a description of the scent, and create an advertisement for it, allowing them to analyze literary figures in an entirely new way.

“It’s a way for students to think about thinking,” said Ms. LeBlanc. “This kind of metacognition combines creativity with analytical thinking. It encourages students to have fun and try things they might never have attempted before, all while discovering their own voice.”

The course culminates with students compiling their writing and creative projects from each unit into a compendium, creating their own personal Field Guide to Life . The final project serves as both a tangible expression of their work and a celebration of the growth each student experiences throughout the year.

“Throughout Ms. LeBlanc’s English 12 class, the focus on different stages of human life helped me form deeper personal connections to the literature we read,” said JOURNEY S. ’26 “The characters’ experiences made me reflect on my own life, relationships, fears, and future, while also helping me better understand perspectives and stages of life beyond my own. Because of this class, literature began to feel less like just stories on a page and more like a pathway to better understand myself and the meaning of different human experiences.”

Jessica LeBlanc’s article, “Engaging Students with an AI-Proof Choice-Based Curriculum,” was featured in DigitalTheatrePlus.com.

Percussive Notes

World Music and Recording Arts & Production teacher JASON LEE BRUNS has published his latest article, “Groovetaps: From Drumline to Drumset, a Rudimental Pattern with a Brazilian Rhythm” in Percussive Notes, the peer-reviewed journal of the Percussive Arts Society. This marks his second publication in the internationally distributed magazine, widely read by professional musicians, university faculty, students, and educators. In the article, Mr. Bruns offers a clear, step-by-step breakdown of a complex drumset groove. With more than 25 years of experience as a music educator and extensive field research on folkloric drumming traditions across 12 countries, he continues to bring innovative, globally informed approaches into the classroom, enriching the learning experience for his students.

Published Author

Associate Head of School CHRISTOPHER DENNIS , PhD, recently published Lonely Graduation: The Journey After the Milestone , which explores the often-overlooked loneliness that can follow major achievements, particularly for first-generation graduates, leaders of color, and high achievers navigating spaces without inherited guidance. Blending memoir, research, and interviews, he reframes success not as an endpoint but as the beginning of a complex emotional journey. Dr. Dennis is also the host of On the Way to School , a short-format podcast for educators and administrators.

The French Connection

On April 23, Campbell Hall welcomed 25 students from École Diagonale in Paris for an exciting cultural exchange. Paired with host students, the visitors attended classes, experienced the energy of a high school spirit rally, enjoyed lunch from the student store, and toured campus with Level III French students, for a day of meaningful connections.

Leading Through Service

Associate Director of College Counseling KIMBERLY ODEN and her husband, Donald Brewster, are the inaugural recipients of the USA Volleyball Foundation’s Lietzke Philanthropists of the Year Award. A two-time Olympian, Ms. Oden captained the U.S. Women’s National Volleyball Team at both the 1988 Seoul and 1992 Barcelona Olympic Games, helping lead the team to a bronze medal in 1992. She was twice named NCAA National Player of the Year and later served as an assistant coach at Stanford University, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Duke University, and Iowa State University. Ms. Oden also serves as Board Chair of Starlings Volleyball, the nonprofit organization she co-founded to provide girls with access to club volleyball, regardless of socioeconomic background or level of play. She and her husband established the Kimberly Oden and Donald Brewster Men’s Volleyball Scholarship Fund at Stanford University, reflecting their longstanding commitment to expanding opportunities for student-athletes.

STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS

Becoming Best Buddies

Harrison was first introduced to Best Buddies in eighth grade through a family friend and quickly connected with the organization’s mission. After participating in activities outside of school, he and Mabel brought Best Buddies to Campbell Hall during their freshman year.

“Best Buddies is a place where students across many different schools find a true sense of belonging, inclusion, and friendship,” said Mabel. “The program offers students the chance to form friendships they might not have in other places and gives them an opportunity to branch out and feel included, which is truly beautiful.”

This year, the Campbell Hall chapter visited partner school Help Group, where students connected with one another and built new friendships. The chapter also participated in the Los Angeles Friendship Walk, a fundraiser supporting Best Buddies, and was recognized for raising more than $10,000 for the organization, more than any other participating school!

Through the IDEA Center, Campbell Hall is a chapter of Best Buddies International, a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering meaningful friendships and opportunities for people with autism and other neurodevelopmental profiles.

Led by co-presidents HARRISON F. ’27 and MABEL R. ’27 with advisors LETICIA SANCHEZ MCPHERSON and VANITA HARBOUR, the chapter has continued to grow since its founding.

“The Campbell Hall Best Buddies partnership serves as a constant reminder of what is truly important in life: building genuine connections and creating an inclusive environment for all people,” said Harrison. “Leading this chapter has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, not only because it is a great opportunity to give back to my community, but because it has impacted the way I see and interact with the world around me. Every memory and friendship created within our partnership is a testament to the importance of inclusion. It is also empowering to know that showing up and interacting can make a significant difference in someone’s day.”

Lessons Beyond the Classroom

BY KESHAV D. ’28

On a trip to India to visit my mother’s family, I was able to experience magnificent architecture, from the Taj Mahal to ancient forts, and the beautiful countryside. It felt like a completely different world from the one I knew. The trip was very eye-opening because I was fortunate enough to encounter the richness of their culture, including colorful traditions and incredible food - although at the same time, I also witnessed the country’s extreme poverty.

While we were riding in auto-rickshaws, impoverished young children would crowd around to beg for food or money, leaving me with an overwhelming sense of helplessness. During a visit to my grand-uncle’s farm in Agra, I told him about what I had witnessed and how deeply it affected me. He connected me with his friend, Pradeep Kumar, founder of the nonprofit Learning by Locals, who was looking for volunteers.

The next day, I met Mr. Kumar, who gave me a walking tour through a slum in Delhi, where I saw children walking on rubble-strewn streets, often without shoes. He explained that a slum is defined as an illegal, densely populated urban settlement where residents build their own structures, and can lose their homes at any time if the government reclaims the land. There is limited community water stored in a tank shared by all residents. The electricity is minimal and unpredictable. Grocery stores sell food in small portions, such as a single slice of bread instead of a whole loaf, because many residents can’t afford larger quantities.

Within this community, Mr. Kumar has built a brightly decorated school where I spent time volunteering. As soon as I entered an elementary classroom, the students warmly welcomed me. I introduced myself and told them a little about my background. Since they don’t often get foreign visitors, they were keen to practice their English and asked many questions. We had fun playing some English-learning games I brought with me.

In another classroom, I met students only a few years older than me who spoke English almost fluently. Many were very interested in STEM subjects and dreamed of pursuing careers in those fields.

Throughout the day, the students and I learned a lot from one another as we peered into each other’s backgrounds. Despite their challenging circumstances, they shared many smiles — something that has stayed with me since I returned back home. Their happiness was contagious and inspiring.

Mr. Kumar came from a background similar to that of the students he teaches and felt compelled to give back to the community by founding Learning by Locals. I am deeply grateful to Mr. Kumar, my parents, and the incredible teachers at Campbell Hall for encouraging me to be open to new experiences and different cultures. This summer, I plan to continue volunteering remotely and staying connected with the wonderful students I met because, like Mr. Kumar, I hope to give back to others.

The Piper Does It Again!

Campbell Hall’s student-run paper, The Piper, has been awarded its sixth COLUMBIA SCHOLASTIC PRESS ASSOCIATION (CSPA) CROWN AWARD for its 2024-2025 publication. The Crown Awards are the most selective and highest form of recognition from the CSPA. The Award honors top student publications nationwide, selected from CSPA members. Crowns are selected for overall excellence in a head-to-head comparison and judged on their design, photography, concept, coverage, and writing. This year, only 45 schools nationwide were selected as Crown finalists.

New York Times Honors

Student Photo Essay

Advanced photography student SARA G. ’26 received an honorable mention in The New York Times Teen Photo Essay Contest for her work, “The Oldest Italian Society in America: An Inside Look Into the Garibaldina.” Out of more than 1,400 entrants, Sara was one of only 30 students to earn this distinction.

Math Counts

VINCENT V. ’31 qualified to compete in the MATHCOUNTS Southern California State Final after an outstanding performance at the regional competition, where he competed against approximately 250 students and finished 11th among individual scorers.

Representing Mexico on the National Stage

VICTORIA H. ’28 recently competed with the IMME (Instituto de los Mexicanos en el Exterior) U16 basketball team at the Olimpiada Nacional CONADE (Mexico’s equivalent to the Junior Olympics) in Puebla, Mexico. The IMME program represents Mexican athletes living outside of Mexico, and this year marked the team’s first appearance at the prestigious national tournament.

Victoria was a standout performer, leading her team with more than 20 points per game while proudly representing both her Mexican and American heritage on the national stage. Her impressive play drew attention from state coaches and college recruiters throughout Mexico, earning her invitations to try out for Mexico’s national 5x5 and 3x3 basketball teams.

Honored by the recognition and opportunities that emerged from the tournament, Victoria continues to pursue her goal of representing Mexico at the 2028 Olympic Games.

Gymnast Earns Top Honors

Congratulations to CHARLIE H. ’28 for winning the title of Western National Vault Champion at the USA Gymnastics Western Championships. She recently won the vault title at the regional level as well and is also the state floor exercise champion. Charlie also earned scores for both vault and floor exercise this season in the Top 100 in the nation.

A JOYFUL NOISE

The Legacy of Campbell Hall’s Gospel Choir

In 1996, inspired by a Martin Luther King, Jr. chapel service, then-Chaplain GREG RICHARDS shared with PATRICE CHANEL GRACE, who had organized the event, that he wanted to hear gospel music on campus. Mrs. Grace took the request to heart and enlisted the help of her friend RICHARD SCHRAIER who brought the talents of Hamilton High School’s gospel choir to Campbell Hall as guest performers, with Campbell Hall students joining them on stage for several songs.

Over the next three years, interest in creating a similar program for Campbell Hall steadily grew, as did Mrs. Grace’s confidence in bringing the vision to life. She reflected, prayed, and considered how to make it a reality. “In the stillness of the night, God will talk to you,” she said. “You have to be very quiet to hear that voice.”

In its earliest years as a standalone choir, Mrs. Grace brought together 45 students in grades 5-12 as founding members, including her own daughter, DR. CAYSIE HARVEY ’06. Over the past 25 years, the choir has expanded to more than 250 students. By 2025, this growth necessitated moving the annual concert

from the Garver Gym, long filled to capacity, to a larger theater, The Soraya at CSUN, to accommodate both the full choir and the burgeoning audience. The 2026 concert sold out the 1,700-seat theater, suggesting an even larger venue may soon be needed!

Born out of the chapel program, the Campbell Hall Gospel Choir is an inclusive space where all students are welcome to participate. There is no audition for the main choir (only for soloists); students simply sign up by the deadline and commit to attending the majority of the ten rehearsals, each lasting two to three hours.

The program’s unique cross-divisional structure is central to its impact, allowing older students to serve as mentors while younger students are inspired by performing alongside them.

The combined singers lift their voices in songs of praise, expressing pure joy that resonates with singers and audience members alike.

“When hearing this faith-filled choir, you feel the presence of God,” said Mrs. Grace. “It fills a much-needed space for students to experience being part of something bigger than themselves.”

For the past 20 years, third grade teacher TAMARA DILLON and her husband, STACEY DILLON, have helped shape the choir’s sound and spirit. Mr. Dillon, a gifted musical director, draws out the best in each performer while skillfully blending the diverse voices into a unified whole. Mrs. Dillon, the daughter of a pastor, brings a deep-rooted spiritual perspective to her work and to the solos she performs. “Gospel music is more than just a genre to me,” she said. “It is the soundtrack of my upbringing and a language that feels entirely natural. It’s a deeply personal part of my identity. There is

something profoundly moving about witnessing that same spark in our students. Seeing their joy doesn’t just lift my spirits, it reaffirms my sense of pride and fills me with a lasting hope for the future they are building through song.”

The Gospel Choir also celebrates the rich heritage and musical traditions of the African American community. “Diversity is a key tenet of Campbell Hall, and the school’s commitment to the Gospel Choir is a tangible expression of our values,” said Mrs. Grace. “Through song, we give voice to struggle, resilience, and triumph within the African American experience. That is something truly worth honoring.”

This year, a long-held dream of Mrs. Grace’s came to fruition with the launch of the Financial Aid Endowment in Honor of the Gospel Choir, made possible by a generous lead gift from MICHAEL and DEANNA SCHLESINGER and the support of the community. Having worked in the Admissions Office for more than 15 years and as a parent of a financial aid recipient, Mrs. Grace understands firsthand how transformative this support can be.

The 25th Gospel Concert celebrated the profound impact the program has had on the community, highlighted by the return of 28 Campbell Hall choir alumni from across the country and

“There is something profoundly moving about witnessing that same spark in our students.”

around the world for a powerful performance. Mrs. Grace, founder and artistic director, was honored for her visionary leadership by the legendary TINA KNOWLES, who presented her with the “Patrice Grace Matriarch Award.”

For many students, participation in the Gospel Concert is a defining part of their Campbell Hall experience, where they forge lifelong friendships across grade levels while deepening their spiritual lives through joyful song. It is, in every sense, the realization of Mrs. Grace’s vision. “I am humbled and proud to be God’s instrument in bringing this concert to our community,” she said. “As the granddaughter of a Baptist minister, I draw constant inspiration from the foundational roots of my childhood. Gospel music is part of my DNA, and the Campbell Hall Gospel Choir is my family.”

BEAUTIFUL WORKS in Progress

When secondary dance teacher RACHEL TURNER moved to Los Angeles to join Campbell Hall, she searched for a dance community outside of school where she could build relationships and continue to grow as an artist. Instead, she found limited opportunities to showcase her choreography and a professional landscape that felt difficult to break into.

In response, she founded a Los Angeles chapter of National Choreography Month (NACHMO), a program that challenges choreographers to create an original dance in just 30 days each January. Having participated in NACHMO while living in Washington, D.C., Ms. Turner knew how transformative the experience could be, as it pushes artists to conceptualize, choreograph, cast, and stage a new work in a concentrated period of time. Because the program is open to anyone committed to the process, it allows for a breadth of dance styles, voices, and perspectives.

The NACHMO showcase presents works in progress. This framework creates space for risk-taking, experimentation, and creative exploration. “It takes the pressure off being perfect and encourages choreographers to grapple with larger ideas and swing for the fences,” explained Ms. Turner. Audience members are invited to offer feedback, giving choreographers valuable insight into what resonates and what might be refined.

As Regional Director for NACHMO LA for eight years, Ms. Turner has grown the program to 30 choreographers and more than 100 dancers. A few years ago, when ZION REGIS ’24, a CH dance student at the time, was looking for opportunities to showcase her work beyond campus, Ms. Turner encouraged her to participate in NACHMO.

Performance Photos by Gregory JM Kasunich

Zion, who now studies dance at Pace University in New York, collaborated with CALISTA MADZAR ’25, who now studies musical theater at Boston Conservatory at Berklee, to choreograph a duet. Both students relished the experience.

Today, the NACHMO workshop is one of several opportunities available to students in Campbell Hall’s Choreographers’ Lab as they complete major projects. This year’s showcase, held at Stomping Ground LA, featured choreography by alum AYDEN GRACE ’23 and current students GIANNA J. ’27 and SILAS R. ’27, along with performances by EVA S. ’26 and LEXI Z. ’27.

“It is super valuable as a student and growing choreographer to be able to participate in a showcase that has so many experienced and professional dancers,” said Silas. “You really get to observe the process and learn from it. Especially in the case of NACHMO, everyone is so creative and thinks outside of the box. It really opens your eyes to all the artistic possibilities and options there are when it comes to dance.”

In addition to producing the show, Ms. Turner often presents her own choreography, giving students the opportunity to experience their teacher’s work outside of Campbell Hall. She noted that observing and participating in the creative process alongside highly skilled choreographers and dancers can be transformative for students.

“The level of artistry and professionalism that Campbell Hall students and alumni bring to the workshop is on par with the broader dance community,” Ms. Turner shared. “It’s incredibly exciting to see.”

“Showcasing my choreography at NACHMO this year was such an awesome experience,” said Gianna. “It was amazing to witness the incredible work of fellow choreographers, and I left feeling so inspired. Even though every choreographer was given the same task, each piece was beautifully different. While watching the show, I realized how much the pieces existed in discourse with each other, functioning to represent the variety in us as choreographers. There is truly nowhere else where I have gotten to participate in such a unique and explorative practice.”

NACHMO also models a more expansive vision of what it means to be a dancer, one that exists beyond a binary of professional company work or nothing at all. The showcase includes both full-time dancers and those who pursue dance alongside other careers, all performing at a high level.

Students also gain valuable, real-world production skills through both their coursework in the CH dance studio and participation in NACHMO, from writing lighting cues to crafting program notes. “I want my dancers to feel prepared when they enter these spaces,” said Ms. Turner. “These are the tools that set them up for success.”

Through NACHMO, Ms. Turner continues to grow as an artist, bringing renewed creativity into the Campbell Hall dance studios, while also expanding opportunities for her students to build confidence, gain experience, and share their work with the broader community.

PERFORMING ARTS

Grades 9-12

HIGH SCHOOL CHOREO LAB SHOWCASE

Choreography Lab and Choreography Lab

Advanced classes present dance pieces created by students, for students.

Grades 9-12

THE PROM

Four eccentric, fading Broadway stars shake up a conservative Indiana town to help a teenage girl banned from bringing her girlfriend to the prom. This hilarious, heartfelt musical comedy follows their journey of self-discovery, spotlighting the power of love, acceptance, and a little bit of glitz to change the world.

Grades 7 & 8

THE DROWSY CHAPERONE

A lonely musical theater fan plays his favorite cast recording in his apartment, bringing the show to life around him. This musical comedy has everything: lovers, a drowsy chaperone, gangsters, singing, dancing, and mistaken identities.

Grades 5-12

CH DANCE COMPANY EXTRACURRICULAR DANCE SHOW

Carnival of the Animals • Hommage • Under the Sea

CARNIVAL OF THE ANIMALS is a whimsical and imaginative 14-movement ballet, featuring music by Camille Saint-Saëns, that blends classical ballet and contemporary dance with animal movements.

HOMMAGE is based on the famous Romanticera ballet, Pas de Quatre, which premiered in 1845. It is a non-narrative ballet that was created for the four most famous ballerinas of the time. Hommage incorporates both the choreography from Pas de Quatre and additional dances set to 19th-century music.

UNDER THE SEA is an original contemporary story inspired by The Little Mermaid and Moana. When pollution threatens Ariel’s underwater world, she journeys to the surface against her father’s wishes to uncover its source. Alongside Moana, Prince Eric, and a lovable deep-sea crab, Ariel discovers friendship, courage, and the truth behind the mysterious sea witch Ursula as she works to restore balance to the ocean.

Grades 7-12

World Music Concert

The World Music Concert featured 65 student performers in grades 7–12 in a vibrant celebration of global music traditions. The production showcased steel pan ensembles, Afro-Caribbean percussion, Brazilian sambareggae, Latin music, popular music arrangements, and world drumming performed on authentic instruments. Combining high-level musicianship, cultural study, and joyful collaboration, the concert transformed the Spielberg Center into an energetic and immersive musical experience unique to Campbell Hall.

Grades 7-12

EVENING OF JAZZ CONCERT

Our middle and high school jazz musicians delivered a night of passionate rhythms and collaborative energy at this year’s Spring Evening of Jazz! Our students showcased their technical skills and passion for performance, leaving everyone blown away.

Grades 7-12

ORCHESTRA CONCERT

Middle school and high school orchestral musicians treated the audience to an evening of beautiful orchestral and chamber music. Classic works by Tchaikovsky, Vivaldi, and Beethoven were performed alongside new pieces by Carrie Lane Gruselle and Martin Norgaard, with the evening culminating in a combined MS and HS Orchestra performance of Soon Hee Newbold’s “Viking.”

Grades 9-12

HIGH SCHOOL POP CONCERT

Featuring music from Fleetwood Mac to Foo Fighters to The Backseat Lovers, our HS Pop Ensemble and Advanced Pop Ensemble rocked the stage, bringing the house down with their incredible talent and show-stopping performances!

Grades K-6

ELEMENTARY SPRING ARTS FESTIVAL

Students delivered energetic performances in dance, music, and song, and showcased original creative work that highlighted imagination and talent throughout. It was a joyful and inspiring celebration of artistic expression and creativity.

VISUAL ARTS

SPRING 2026

6 TH GRADE IDENTITY PROJECT

SENIOR SHOW

GRADES

7-11

The visual arts are among the earliest forms of selfexpression that children explore, offering a way to communicate ideas, share emotions, process experiences, and develop a creative voice. “Kids may not be able to fully articulate their feelings or thoughts, but when they make art, you can see their complexity,” explained Visual Arts Department Chair KATIE KLINE ’01

At Campbell Hall, art is woven throughout the elementary curriculum, and the art studio is an integral part of the early educational experience, where teaching artists guide students in developing techniques and choice-based independence.

As students move into secondary school, they can become more influenced by outside forces, including traditional and social media and popular culture, which can impact their confidence and foster the misconception that art must look a certain way. “We reframe the conversation, helping students understand

that art is a way to process big ideas and hold up a mirror to the world around them,” said Ms. Kline. “Art can be a grounding force that helps balance your whole self.”

Student artist BROOKE C. ’30 echoed that sentiment: “For me, art is a relationship where I give the paper my time and thoughts, and in return it teaches me patience, perspective, confidence, and discipline. Like many things, getting better takes practice, but when you have a passion for something, growing and pushing yourself comes easily.”

Through the visual arts, free from technology and centered in mindfulness, students can deepen their connection to their own spirituality. “In our fast-paced world, it’s really hard for kids to slow down,” said Ms. Kline. “It’s more important than ever for them to have the time to process, allow a flow state to emerge, and tap into their inner voice and spirit.”

To celebrate this connection, a special chapel is held in each division where student artists in 6th, 8th, and 12th grade share how their spirituality is reflected in their work. The sacred space created through the chapel program fosters an environment where students can reveal deeply personal aspects of themselves in a peer-to-peer setting. In doing so, they present not only their artistic accomplishments, but also their authentic selves and what is most meaningful to them.

The art and spirituality chapel also highlights art as a powerful form of storytelling. Through the visual medium, students communicate narratives and perspectives that transcend words. “Student artists show that a story can take the form of a painting, sculpture, photograph, film, or animation,” said Ms. Kline.

As part of the oldest cohort in their respective divisions, the chapel presenters serve as role models, inspiring younger students to embrace their own creativity. In her chapel presentation, ELEANOR W. ’30 said: “If you feel calm when creating art, and that is the same calm you feel when meditating, praying, or doing whatever makes you feel happiest, then art for you is spiritual and an endless fountain of joy. Art can change your life; all you need to do is let it.”

The artistic journey is not always easy. An artist may not have a clear sense of where their work is headed, become frustrated with the process, or question their own abilities. Yet these challenges are part of growth and self-discovery, making this pursuit so deeply personal. Ultimately, through this process, students come to the understanding that creativity is embedded in every human being. “Art is for everyone,” said Ms. Kline, “because everyone is an artist.”

Art & Spirituality Chapel

Presenters:

6th Grade

Chloe d. ’32, Sydney E. ’32, Daisy L. ’32, Charlotte W. ’32, and Kevin Z. ’32

8th Grade

Brooke C. ’30, Isabella D. ’30, Masha K. ’30, Malcolm R. ’30, and Eleanor W. ’30

12th Grade

Kaity-Rae B. ’26, Niki K. ’26, and Charlie L. ’26

MEET HEAD VARSITY BOYS’ BASKETBALL COACH

BRANDON CLIFFORD

Originally from Kentucky, COACH BRANDON CLIFFORD has been playing basketball since he was big enough to hold a ball. As he grew into his 6’9” frame and with the skills to match, he became a standout player in high school and went on to compete at the University of North Carolina Wilmington, a Division 1 program.

After college, Coach Clifford entered the coaching profession. “A lot of my coaches made a huge impact on me,” he said. “It was a natural progression to want to do the same for future players.” Over 15 seasons as a head coach in independent schools across the country, he has compiled a 333–151 record, averaging more than 22 wins per season. His teams have won two state championships, reached four state finals, made nine Final Four appearances, and captured five conference titles across four schools.

For Coach Clifford, success goes beyond the scoreboard. “It’s about maximizing each athlete’s potential, because everyone has a different starting line,” he explained. “Potential is like the juice in an orange, and my job is to squeeze out every drop.”

His approach centers on building character and instilling discipline, honor, and pride. “I’m growing young men and challenging them to be better,” he said. “At Campbell Hall, earning the jersey means something. I want my athletes to be role models who treat others with care. Those are the things that lead to success in life.”

IT’S ABOUT MAXIMIZING EACH ATHLETE’S POTENTIAL, BECAUSE EVERYONE HAS A DIFFERENT STARTING LINE.

Now, he brings his experience, proven strategies, and talent for developing players to Campbell Hall. He’s excited about the opportunity to compete in California’s unique open division system, where teams are grouped by performance rather than school size. “It gives us the chance to be in that elite conversation every year and compete against the best,” he said. “When you win here, you know you have one of the top teams in the country.”

That sense of purpose is what drew him to Campbell Hall and made him an ideal fit for the school. “I fell in love with Campbell Hall the minute I stepped onto the campus,” he said. “There is an amazing energy here, and I really love the school’s focus on the whole student, where kids are given what they need to pursue whatever their passions are.”

While he demands hard work and high performance on the court, Coach Clifford also emphasizes balance. He encourages students to fully experience high school and develop identities beyond athletics. “Being an athlete is something you do, not who you are,” he said. “You have to know who you are when the ball stops bouncing.”

For Coach Clifford, these lessons extend far beyond the court. They are lessons for life.

R FULL SPEED AHEAD

ROCCO S. ’26

CAMPBELL HALL OF FAME

OCCO S. ’26 began his high school athletic journey on the basketball court. But as a sophomore, everything changed when his older brother, then a Campbell Hall senior, brought him to a track practice. Rocco was immediately drawn to the sport, and the coach quickly recognized his potential. Before long, he was officially part of the team.

Despite being new to track, Rocco advanced to the CIF-SS Finals in his very first season. Along the way, he developed a strong bond with his teammates, who came to rely on him. As the sport became a bigger part of his life, so did the sense of belonging that came with it. “I really liked the running community,” said Rocco. “The more I ran, the more I developed a passion for it.”

At the end of his junior year, Rocco suffered a pulled hamstring before the final race of the season. Determined to compete, he ran despite the injury. While he didn’t perform as well as he had hoped, the experience became a turning point. “I didn’t want to feel that way again,” he said. “It motivated me to double down on my training and push even further.”

That summer, Rocco focused on improving by lifting weights and intensifying his training, building his strength, endurance, and speed. In the first race of his senior season, he clocked 10.8 in the 100 meters, surpassing his expectations. “It was so cool, because I could see how all my hard work paid off,” he said.

Still, Rocco is quick to emphasize that progress happens over time. “You’re not going to see improvement every day,” he shared. “Changes are incremental. It’s really about stacking days, putting in the time and effort consistently over time to see results. You have to stay patient.”

That mindset is reflected in his daily routine: he runs or lifts (sometimes both) every day of the week. His dedication has led him

to break Campbell Hall records in both the 100-meter (10.7) and 200-meter (22.7). “You may not be the best when you start, but if you truly love the sport, just stay consistent and work hard, and you will reach your goals,” he said. “Records are meant to be broken.”

The same discipline carries into his academic pursuits. Rocco enjoys AP Macroeconomics and hopes to combine his love of sports with his interest in business by pursuing a career in finance or sports management.

Outside of school and athletics, Rocco enjoys spending time with friends, eating at new restaurants (he loves food), and trying his hand at cooking, which he admits is still a work in progress. Having attended Campbell Hall since seventh grade, he knows he will miss the school’s closeknit community, chapel, and the everyday moments shared with friends when he graduates.

Next year, Rocco will continue his track career at Fordham University, where he has committed to compete at the Division 1 level. With the same drive, discipline, and determination that have defined his journey so far, he is poised to make his mark there. And perhaps break a few more records along the way.

A LEGEND in the MAKING

NASIR A. ’27

NASIR A. ’27 began playing baseball at age four after being inspired by the film 42, which chronicles Jackie Robinson’s groundbreaking journey as the first Black athlete to play in MLB. “The last scene of the movie was amazing,” he said. “Jackie hits a homerun off a team that didn’t even want to pitch to him. This was someone who looked like me doing incredible things. I wanted to be just like him.”

Nasir’s dedication to the sport is reflected in his demanding training and game schedule. In addition to playing for the Campbell Hall Varsity Boys’ Baseball team, he has competed on a travel team since he was fourteen, commuting two hours each way for practices. Yearround baseball often means overlapping fall and winter schedules, with nights that stretch until 10 or 11 p.m. Despite the long days, Nasir still wakes up early to lift weights before school and spends afternoons running, hitting, or strength training.

He doesn’t complain about the time investment. For Nasir, the sacrifice is part of pursuing his dreams. “If you are trying to be recruited for college or drafted for the MLB,” he said, “this is the minimum.”

Already committed to play at Saint Mary’s College of California, a Division 1 school, Nasir has established himself as one of the top players in the league, earning Second-Team All-Gold Coast League this season. Reflecting on memorable moments, he recalled Campbell Hall’s dramatic 11-inning victory over Windward that helped advance the team to the playoffs. RYAN F. ’27 drew a walk that allowed Nasir to score the winning run at home plate. He also recounted his first home run at age twelve in Little League, a grand slam!

Throughout his baseball career, Nasir credits his coaches with elevating his game. “They’ve all helped turn up my baseball mindset,” he said. “When you’re at bat, you can’t overthink. You have to rely on your training and trust that your body knows what to do.” As a center fielder, he studies the ball immediately after its release, reading its trajectory and making sure his initial footwork puts him under it at the right time.

Beyond his physical training, Nasir believes confidence has been key to his growth. “I want to be the best,” he said. “I’ve always had really high standards for myself, but sometimes doubt would creep in, and I would talk negatively to myself. What I’ve learned is that you have to be okay with failing sometimes. You have to acknowledge when you don’t do well, accept it, learn from it, and move on. That’s how you improve.” He believes resilience comes from recognizing that past challenges can prepare you to overcome future ones.

Outside of baseball, Nasir’s favorite subject in school is history. “Growing up, my dad taught me a lot about Black History,” he shared. “I think it’s so cool to learn about past civilizations and how it connects to today’s cultures. I also love debating topics using evidence and applying it. It helps develop real-life skills, complex thinking, and public speaking skills.”

Nasir encourages younger athletes to stay disciplined and intentional in pursuing their goals. “Do something every day that moves you closer to where you want to be,” he advised. “Work on your swing, hit the weight room, and strengthen your mindset. You might not see it overnight, but in a year you’ll be exponentially better.” Then he added, “Most importantly, believe in yourself.”

Today, Nasir wears the number 42 on his travel team jersey as a tribute to the player who first inspired him, while continuing to build a baseball legacy of his own.

CAMPBELL HALL OF FAME

PAR EXCELLENCE

LIZZY A. ’27

CAMPBELL HALL OF FAME

LIZZY A. ’27 has loved swinging a golf club since she received a toy set at age six. Growing up, she played casually with her family, but over the past few years, her interest in the sport has developed into a true passion. As a freshman, she joined the Varsity Girls’ Golf team, embracing both the competitive and personal challenges of the game.

Lizzy’s face lights up when talking about golf, and doesn’t dim even when describing the back pain that can come from the game’s repetitive swinging motions. Golf demands intense concentration and mental discipline, but she rarely lets nerves take over. In fact, she is usually more excited than anxious before a match.

“I love experiencing new courses, which I get to do a lot through competition,” she said. “I stick to my warm-up routine and stay focused, but I don’t tend to get overwhelmed.”

That mindset helps her stay grounded during competition. “The game is really about each hole,” she said. “If I have a bad hole, I try to reset and remind myself that the next one can be better.”

Although golf is played as a team sport, Lizzy appreciates the independence it requires. “Even though we compete as a team, golf is really an individual sport,” Lizzy explained. “You have to play your own game, and then your score contributes to the team total.”

Golf has also taught Lizzy the importance of integrity and trust. Because referees are not monitoring every shot, players are responsible for keeping accurate scores. When discrepancies arise, she has learned to approach situations thoughtfully and respectfully. “Everyone is responsible for following the rules,” she said. “There is a lot of trust we all have to have in each other.”

This past season, Lizzy advanced to the CIF-SS regional championship. Though she didn’t win, the experience reinforced what she values most about the sport: personal growth and camaraderie over competition. “It was such a great experience to be with all these girls who are so good at golf,” she said. “My teammates…I mean opponents,” she laughed, “were so much fun.”

While the high school golf season is relatively short, Lizzy plays year-round. She spends summers in Michigan where she plays on a competitive team, plays recreationally several times a week, and trains to improve her game. She also incorporates weight training to build strength and endurance.

Beyond golf, Lizzy is passionate about the arts, including photography, drawing, and painting. She has also acted professionally, appearing in television series such as The Santa Clauses and Thee Third Act. Still, academics remains her top priority. Lizzy enjoys psychology, which she hopes to study in college, and loves math. Recently, she has also discovered a talent for creative writing, which she credits to her English teacher, DR. APABLASA, for helping her uncover.

Lizzy knows the power of perseverance and hard work. For students hoping to follow a similar path, she advises: “You have to be patient with yourself. You’re going to make mistakes, but if you stick with it, you’ll be rewarded in the end.”

S FINDING Her STRIDE

SOFIA J. ’29

CAMPBELL HALL OF FAME

OFIA J. ’29 is an accomplished athlete. As a freshman, she is one of the youngest members of the Campbell Hall Varsity Girls’ Soccer team and earned Second-Team All Gold Coast League honors. She also competes in club soccer, where her team has qualified for nationals twice. To build stamina and elevate her performance on the field, Sofia joined the cross-country team in seventh grade. What began as a way to improve her soccer skills quickly grew into a genuine passion for running.

Through dedication and hard work, Sofia has strengthened her endurance, grit, and resilience, earning three championship banners and Gold Coast League MVP along the way. At a recent track meet, she came close to breaking 5:03 in the 1,600 meters, giving her confidence that this goal is within reach. Her standout cross-country season earned her a spot at the State finals, where she was the fastest freshman and even set a new personal record in the first mile of the race, improving from 5:49 to 5:32. While she didn’t win, the experience was transformative. In recognition of her outstanding achievements, she was named the 2025–26 Campbell Hall Outstanding Athlete of the Year.

Sofia credits much of her success to Coaches NOAH BALLARD ’17 and LUKE PATRICK ’18, whose guidance and encouragement have been instrumental. “My coaches got me here,” she said. “I wouldn’t be the runner I am without them.”

She has also built strong connections with teammates across all her sports. Competing on mixed-gender teams in cross-country and track, Sofia has a diverse group of friends who support and motivate her. “We all push each other to do our best,” she said.

Sofia’s athletic road has also had its share of challenges, which she takes in stride (literally). Reflecting on the State finals, she noted: “I went out too fast in the first mile and didn’t have enough left for the rest of the 5K, but it motivated me to do better during track season.” As a soccer midfielder, she often plays against older girls. “Some of my opponents are a lot bigger than me,” said Sofia, “but I have learned how to adapt and defend against them.”

With Sofia’s busy training and game schedule, often with track or cross-country practice in the afternoon and club soccer practice in the evening, she usually begins her day at 6 a.m. to complete her homework. Her commitment extends into the weekends, where she focuses on strength training.

Before races, Sofia listens to music to stay focused and motivated. “I tell myself positive things, like, ’I can break 5’ and ’don’t give up,’” she said. “It’s important to believe in yourself and not compare yourself to others. If you keep working hard, it will pay off.” Running also provides Sofia with a sense of calm. “It helps take my mind off anything that is stressful,” she shared.

In the classroom, Sofia enjoys math and biology and hopes to pursue a career in engineering. She also has a creative side and loves painting. In her downtime, she likes to watch cooking shows with her family and hang out with friends.

Whether on the field, track, or in the classroom, Sofia brings a positive attitude and quiet determination to set the pace for the next leg of her journey.

WINTER & SPRING

WRAP-UP

ELEMENTARY SPORTS

WINTER DIVISION CHAMPS

4TH GRADE BOYS’ BLUE BASKETBALL

5TH GRADE BOYS’ BLUE BASKETBALL

5TH GRADE BOYS’ GOLD BASKETBALL

5TH GRADE BOYS’ WHITE BASKETBALL

6TH GRADE BOYS’ GOLD SOCCER

SPRING DIVISION CHAMPS

4TH GRADE BOYS’ VOLLEYBALL

5TH GRADE COED VOLLEYBALL

6TH COED VOLLEYBALL

6TH GRADE BOYS’ GOLD SOCCER

Won the championship with an undefeated season

MIDDLE SCHOOL SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS

WINTER

BOYS’ SOCCER

Made it to the first round of the Delphic League Playoffs

SPRING

• BOYS’ TENNIS

Delphic League Singles and Doubles Tournament Champions

- Christian S. ’30 Singles Champion

- Greer M. ’31 and Theo F. ’30 Doubles Champions

• BOYS’ VOLLEYBALL

Made Playoffs and finished top 4 in Delphic League

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS

WINTER

GIRLS’ BASKETBALL

The Vikings advanced to the CIF-SS Division 2 Round 1 Playoffs and had an impressive tournament season throughout the winter. The team won the Milken Tournament with a perfect 4–0 record, with Victoria H. ’28 Charlotte C. ’28 earning All-Tournament honors and Romy D. ’26 being named Tournament MVP. The Vikings also captured the SoCal Holiday Classic in San Diego, finishing 3–0 in the NCAA Gold Division, where D’Addario again earned MVP honors.

Romy D. ’26 was named First-Team All Gold Coast League, and Charlotte C. ’28 earned Second-Team All Gold Coast League honors.

BOYS’ BASKETBALL

The Vikings celebrated a strong season highlighted by multiple league honors. Ean B. ’27 was named First-Team All Gold Coast League, while Chris P. II ’28 earned Second-Team All Gold Coast League recognition.

BOYS’ SOCCER

Lucas S. ’27 earned First-Team All Gold Coast League honors, and Ryan M. ’27 was named Second-Team All Gold Coast League.

GIRLS’ SOCCER

The Vikings had three players recognized for their outstanding performances this season. Ava B. ’26 earned First-Team All Gold Coast League honors, while Sofia J. ’29 and Delma N. ’27 were both named Second-Team All Gold Coast League.

SPRING

GIRLS’ BEACH VOLLEYBALL

The Vikings had an outstanding season, finishing as CIF-SS Division 4 Championship Finalists. The team also placed first and second at the NDA Girls’ Beach Volleyball Tournament. In the CIF Southern Section Pairs Tournament, Ella D. ’26 and Lucy T. ’28 finished 5th overall.

In the CIF Southern Section Pairs Tournament, Ella D. ’26 and Lucy T. ’28 finished 5th overall.

TRACK & FIELD

BOYS’ GOLF

The team made it to the CIF-SS Divisional Team Championship game. The Vikings also set a new school scoring record this season with a team score of 189, led by Jonas D. ’28 who shot a team-best 2-under par.

The team made it to the CIF-SS Finals with Sofia J. ’29 earning two first place medals and the Division 4 Championship title in the 1600m and 3200m and Rocco S. ’26 earning second place in the 100m with a time of 10.68 and Watson E. ’27 earning 2nd place in the 1600m with a time of 4:21. At the Tara Davis Invitational, Rocco S. ’26 broke his own school record in the 100m with a time of 10.78, while also setting a new personal record for the season and establishing a new Tara Davis Invitational meet record in the event.

Sofia J. ’29 won two CIF-SS Division 4 Track & Field Championship titles in the 1600m (5:05) and 3200m (11:12).

SWIM

Addie L. ’27 won the CIF-SS Division 4 Swim Championship, winning Gold in the 50 YD Freestyle and silver in the 100 YD Freestyle.

BOYS’ TENNIS

Made it to the first round of CIF-SS Division 7 playoffs. Kai B. ’26 made it to the fourth round of CIF-SS Individual Singles Finals and earned First-Team All Gold Coast League and MVP for Singles.

BOYS’ VOLLEYBALL

In a special ceremony, Campbell Hall retired Niko M. ’28 ’s jersey to honor his lasting impact on the Boys’ Volleyball program and the broader Campbell Hall community. His number 6 jersey now has a permanent home in Garver Gym as a tribute to his legacy.

BOYS’ BASEBALL

Made it to the first round of CIF-SS Division 7 playoffs.

Prior to the start of the season, the boys’ and girls’ basketball teams were invited to participate in JORDAN FLIGHT SCHOOL, an exclusive Jordan Brand training experience for select high school athletes. The program focused on elite skills development, mental toughness, and player growth through high-level training sessions led by top basketball trainers and mentors.

Congrats to these standout seniors who are taking their talents to the next level! We’re proud to celebrate our senior athletes who have committed to playing their sport in college.

K APR i G. VOLLEYBALL

University of Michigan

BASKETBALL

Williams College in Massachusetts

K ENNEDy E. VOLLEYBALL

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

R OCCO S . TRACK & FIELD

Fordham University

TAKING THE NEXT STEP

6TH GRADE PROMOTION

June 5 // Garver Gym

CELEBRATING THE JOURNEY

SENIOR KEY CHAPEL

Senior Key Chapel marked the beginning of senior year celebrations for the Class of 2026. During this special October gathering, seniors shared heartfelt speeches and musical performances that honored the memories, growth, and connections that defined their Campbell Hall journey. The longstanding CH tradition of exchanging keys marked an important milestone for the graduating class, symbolizing lifelong friendships and shared experiences they will carry with them into their next chapter.

TOGETHER

Since the Be g inning

13-YEAR STUDENTS

We are so grateful to the entire Campbell Hall community for making the 2025-26 Campbell Hall Annual Fund campaign a success.

Your generosity enriches the student experience each day by supporting innovative academics, faculty professional development, vibrant arts programs, competitive athletics, technology-rich classrooms, and robust financial aid.

Your partnership helps sustain the exceptional education that defines Campbell Hall.

ALL IN for CH Students

A SACRED SEND-OFF BACCALAUREATE

The Class of 2026 came together for Baccalaureate, a cherished tradition honoring their time as Campbell Hall students. Through music, readings, prayers, and an inspiring homily from Associate Head of School Christopher Dennis, PhD, seniors reflected on the experiences and relationships that shaped them. They were sent forth with gratitude for the remarkable people they have become and blessings for all that lies ahead.

COMMENCEMENT

June 9 // Walt Disney Concert Hall

Babson College

Bard College

Barnard College

Belmont University

Boston University

California Polytechnic State UniversitySan Luis Obispo

California State University, Long Beach

BRIGHT FUTURES Campbell Hall

Chapman University

Clark Atlanta University

Columbia University

Dartmouth College

College

Duke University

Elon University

Emerson College

University

Goucher College

Guildhall School of Music and Drama

Hampton University

Harvard University

Harvey Mudd College

Howard University

Indiana University Bloomington

Loyola Marymount University

Morehouse College

Mount Saint Mary’s University

New York University

Northeastern University

Pitzer College

Rhode Island School of Design

San Diego State University

Santa Monica College

Savannah College of Art and Design

BRIGHT FUTURES Campbell Hall

School of the Art Institute of Chicago

Scripps College

Skidmore College

Southern Methodist University

Spelman College

Swarthmore College

Syracuse University

The George Washington University

The University of North Carolina at Charlotte

The University of Texas at Austin

The University of Utah

Tulane University

Tufts University

University of California, Berkeley

University of California, Davis

University of California, Los Angeles

University of California, San Diego

University of Chicago

University of Colorado Boulder

University of Miami

University of Michigan

University of Notre Dame

University of Pennsylvania

University of Richmond

University of San Francisco

University of South CarolinaColumbia

University of Southern California

University of Washington

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Villanova University

Wesleyan University

Williams College

Yale University

LOOKING AHEAD STUDENTS SHADOW ALUMNI PROFESSIONALS

More than 30 juniors and seniors participated in the second annual Shadow Day program over spring break, connecting with alumni working in their fields of interest for a day of career exploration and a glimpse into their possible futures. Hosted by the Alumni Office, students shadowed professionals in ophthalmology, pediatrics, advertising, real estate, music, and journalism.

JOSHUA SMITH ’94, Executive Vice President, Luxury Sales and Agent Director for the Sally Forster Jones Group at Compass in Beverly Hills, hosted CAYDEN D. ’27, JG K. ’26, and DARIA J. ’26 for an immersive introduction to the real estate industry. The students toured premier homes and met with agents to discuss listings and sales strategies, gaining firsthand insight into the fast-paced world of luxury real estate.

Sports media journalist LAUREN JONES ’10 met LAUREN S. ’27 at Crypto.com Arena for a behind-the-scenes look at covering a Lakers game. From meeting coaches and players to learning what goes into sports journalism, the experience was an unforgettable introduction to the field.

Vice President of Brand Partners for BMG DARON MOORE ’04 gave DÉJEAN D. ’26 an inside look at the music industry, sharing how creative and compelling branding and strategic marketing help drive artists’ careers.

The program will continue into the summer with more opportunities for students to learn from alumni. “We are so grateful for the incredible opportunities alumni provide for our current students,” said Director of Student Activities and Alumni Board member JILLIAN WISEMAN ’10. “They are wonderful role models who lead by example and open up a world of opportunities for our current Vikings to imagine the many possibilities available to them in their future careers.”

WE ARE SO GRATEFUL FOR THE INCREDIBLE OPPORTUNITIES ALUMNI PROVIDE FOR OUR CURRENT STUDENTS.

Campbell Hall

Growing up in a family immersed in the entertainment industry, and with an extensive acting and dance career of her own, including her memorable lead role as Andie West in the Step Up franchise, BRIANA EVIGAN ’04 has long understood the transformative power of storytelling. Yet at the height of her career, she began to feel isolated and disconnected, prompting her to search for a new path.

Briana began trekking through remote parts of the world, including Indonesia, Uganda, and Rwanda, to explore nature. During her travels, she began to see the consequences of human consumption, particularly within the tourism industry, and its impact on wildlife. She witnessed the devastating effects of poaching firsthand, including the loss of a baby elephant named Salma, who died after being caught in a snare trap.

Experiencing grief and a sense of hopelessness, Briana hiked to a mountaintop in Indonesia. While taking in her breathtaking surroundings, she had a profound spiritual awakening. “I met the creator that day,” she said. “I woke up and met myself.” In that moment, she recognized that protecting animals and healing ecosystems begins with supporting the people who live alongside them, many of whom face cycles of poverty.

Inspired, Briana relocated to Africa and cofounded the nonprofit organization Abundant Village, which partners with communities in some of the world’s most critical land and seascapes. The organization equips people with the tools, skills, and resources they need not only to survive but to thrive. Through partnerships with other nonprofits, Abundant Village helps

A Journey Back to Nature and Self

BRIANA EVIGAN ' 04

ensure access to clean water, nourishing food, and education. Working alongside more than 30 communities (and growing), the organization empowers environmental stewardship and is helping protect and restore more than 8 million acres of land across four countries in Africa.

Briana also co-founded the production company MoveMe Studio, which creates films and documentaries designed to inspire action.

on the ground.” Volunteers engage in hands-on, culturally immersive experiences, from planting grapevines and building mud huts to assisting in conservation efforts such as dehorning rhinos to protect them from poachers.

Now pregnant with her second child and a stepmom of two, Briana is especially passionate about empowering young people to be part of the solution. Abundant Village co-hosts a naturepositive youth conference in South Africa, where participants gain the tools, confidence, and a sense of agency to make a meaningful impact.

THE REAL WAY TO PROPEL CHANGE IS FOR PEOPLE TO SEE WHAT IS HAPPENING ON THE GROUND.

Half of the company’s net proceeds directly support Abundant Village, creating a sustainable revenue stream while amplifying its mission. The work draws on Briana’s background as a storyteller. “These are the stories I want to tell,” she said. “Through these narratives, audiences gain new perspectives and a deeper understanding of critical issues.”

While financial support and partnerships are vital to sustaining Abundant Village’s work, Briana emphasizes that meaningful change requires active participation. “We always appreciate financial contributions, but we encourage people to volunteer and get their hands dirty,” she said. “The real way to propel change is for people to see what is happening

“When we are disconnected from the natural world, we are disconnected from ourselves,” Briana reflected. “There is so much healing in the bush; listening to the silent whispers of the universe among these ancient, majestic creatures brings calm and peace.”

In a full-circle moment, Briana returned to Campbell Hall in November 2025 to meet with the high school Women’s Affinity Group and share her journey. “It was so cool to be back on campus,” she said. “Campbell Hall taught me resilience, something I have relied on throughout my life, and for that, I’m truly grateful.”

Alumni Spotlights

ELLE FANNING ’16

Actress Earns Oscar and Golden Globe Nominations

Congratulations to Elle Fanning ’16, who earned her first Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress and a Golden Globe nomination for her critically acclaimed performance in Joachim Trier’s Sentimental Value .

ROBERT AMIDON ’07

Producer Premieres Thrilling Film

Robert Amidon ’07, producer of the scifi thriller Mercy! , shared his excitement about his latest film project in a recent interview. “The moment I read the script, I knew there was something special here,” he said. Starring Chris Pratt and Rebecca Ferguson and set in a dystopian future where crime is judged by AI, this exciting feature film is told in real time, tracking a highstakes 90-minute trial.

SYDNEY WAYSER ’04

Entrepreneur Creates Cozy Café

Sydney Wayser ’04 and her partner, Isaac Watters, have transformed their beautiful Angelino Heights home into a licensed Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operation. Their home café, Granada, serves delicious coffee and treats straight from their kitchen, inviting guests to relax on comfy couches, gather around the dining room table, or chill on the patio. Embraced by the neighborhood, Granada has quickly become a welcoming community gathering place.

JJ MEYERS ’06

Real Estate Agent Rises to the Top

JJ Meyers ’06, a real estate agent with Westside Estate Agency, has been named a Real Estate All-Star by LA Magazine . Chosen from tens of thousands of agents across the Los Angeles area, this prestigious recognition underscores JJ’s diligence, expertise, and commitment to his clients.

ANI ADELL ’22

College Senior

Appointed Gallery Guide

Ani Adell ’22 was appointed as a Gallery Guide at the Allen Memorial Art Museum at Oberlin College. This role allowed her to facilitate meaningful connections between the community and the museum’s world-class collection, a perfect capstone to her undergraduate career.

JOSHUA CUEVAS ’21

Football Player Joins the NFL

Joshua Cuevas ’21 has joined the Baltimore Ravens as a tight end in the National Football League. He previously played college football for the Cal Poly Mustangs, Washington Huskies, and Alabama Crimson Tide.

CHRISTIAN JOHN BRADLEY ’12

Founder Launches Performance Development Firm

Christian John Bradley ’12, a former football player at the University of Southern California who earned a B.A. in Communications and an M.A. in Journalism, is the founder of For The Competitors, a firm that equips business professionals, youth organization leaders, and athletes with the tools to transform pressure into performance. Through workshops and coaching, Christian helps clients build confidence before critical moments, maintain clarity during them, and cultivate resilience afterward.

KIRA BREKKE ’09 Lawyer Continues Advocacy

Kira Brekke ’09, Civil Rights Attorney at the California Civil Rights Law Group, specializes in employment law, focusing on sexual harassment and racial discrimination cases. Before entering the legal field, Kira established a distinguished career as a journalist, producer, and editor. Based in New York City and Washington, D.C., she reported for The Huffington Post and ThinkProgress, covering pivotal stories in politics, social justice, and LGBTQ+ equality. While an undergraduate at the University of Southern California, she contributed to the Academy Award-nominated documentary The Invisible War, which brought national attention to the epidemic of sexual assault within the U.S. military.

PAUL TACORIAN ’93 & NADINE TACORIAN ARZEROUNIAN ’95

World-Renowned Local Jewelers

Paul Tacorian ’93 and Nadine Tacorian Arzerounian ’95, second-generation leaders of their family’s luxury jewelry company, Tacori, were featured in the Los Angeles Times. Their father, Haig Tacorian, immigrated to Los Angeles with just a suitcase and built the business from the ground up. Today, the company employs more than 125 people and keeps its manufacturing in the community, while Paul and Nadine continue to drive the brand forward.

HANNAH NORDBERG ’22

Actor Takes Center Stage

Hannah Nordberg ’22 is taking her incredible talent to London’s West End, starring as the iconic Lydia Deetz in Beetlejuice The Musical at the historic Prince Edward Theatre. Beyond her impressive stage work, Hannah is also known for her roles in HBO’s Euphoria and The Devil You Know , as well as Netflix’s Longmire .

MELISSA NGUYEN ’00

Tennis Pro Establishes Nonprofit

Melissa Nguyen ’00 has a passion for tennis that transcends the court. She recently served as a tennis consultant on the film Challengers , helping transform lead actress Zendaya into a powerhouse on the court. Melissa’s most meaningful work, however, has taken place off the court. In honor of her brother, who passed away at age 27, Melissa and her family founded Scoot Over, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting families and caregivers navigating the complexities of the mental health system. The organization also provides scholarships to teens across the region who actively prioritize their mental well-being and work to reduce stigma by courageously sharing their stories with peers.

PAUL THOMAS ANDERSON ’88

Director Sweeps the 2026 Oscars

In addition to earning a Golden Globe for Best Director – Motion Picture, acclaimed writer, director, and producer Paul Thomas Anderson ’88 saw his sweeping political thriller One Battle After Another dominate the 2026 Oscars. Paul took home three individual awards for Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Adapted Screenplay. The film also won Best Supporting Actor for Sean Penn, Best Film Editing, and Achievement in Casting. Paul is known for beloved films including Boogie Nights, Magnolia, Punch-Drunk Love, and Phantom Thread.

DOMINIQUE DIDIA ’08

Sports Executive Launches New Role

Dominique DiDia ’08 was named the first-ever General Manager of the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) Las Vegas. An accomplished sports executive and former Co-Head of CAA Sports’ Women’s Hockey Department, Dominique will now spearhead hockey operations and roster construction for the team’s inaugural 2026-27 season.

Class Notes Campus Visits

UPDATES FROM OUR ALUMNI COMMUNITY

LA influencer Sweetsound, along with his Creative Director & Photographer, CHARLIE STERN ’19 , met with the Ventures to Success Club to share key insights on building a brand and leveraging social media to launch a business. ( Charlie pictured in tan jacket. )

DR. CAYSIE CARTER HARVEY ’06 , author and educator, visited elementary classes to share her children’s book, Max’s Life in Blue , a powerful story that explores the strength of family bonds and the importance of embracing individuality, concepts that resonated deeply with students.

SARAH TASHMAN ’17 returned to campus to reconnect with the Hands for Haiti Club, which she co-founded as a Campbell Hall student in 2015. During her visit, she shared insights from her career in international development and her continued commitment to humanitarian work. She spoke with students about her journey from Campbell Hall to the London School of Economics, where she earned an MS in Development Management, and reflected on her experience leading large-scale projects to improve infrastructure and expand access to education.

CLAIRE LIPSMAN ’12 visited ALLISON SHRAGE ’s Art History class to provide feedback to students on their curatorial projects. Claire has worked in art conservation at Silverlake Conservation and as a museum associate at Forest Lawn Museum. She now serves as Museum Registrar and Exhibitions Coordinator at the USC Fisher Museum of Art.

Events

On February 12, the 4th annual BLACK ALUMNI COLLECTIVE PANEL was held in the Boardroom, welcoming back four impressive alumni panelists who shared their professional journeys, career insights, and Viking pride with the community. Panelists included CHRISTIAN JOHN BRADLEY ’12 , founder of For The Competitors, a firm that helps high achievers master their mindset under pressure; OMAR ELLISON ’10, an independent filmmaker and Marketing Editor at ARC Creative Studios; KRYSTA FOSTER ’19, an interior designer at LUNO Design Studio; and REESE-FREDERICK JONES ’19, an investment associate at Rexford Industrial.

a

The 25th annual GOSPEL CONCERT brought together 28 Campbell Hall choir alumni, providing a meaningful way to reconnect through the power of song during an unforgettable performance.

and

Eight soccer alumni returned to the field for an exciting scrimmage against current Campbell Hall players under the guidance of COACH SERGIO MONTANO. One alum reflected: “I had a blast meeting some new faces, playing, and knowing I could still keep up with all these young cats!”

Campbell Hall

Ten alumni tennis players enjoyed

match

mixer on the new Viking Tennis Center courts alongside Campbell Hall legend COACH STEVE KUECHEL.

Hosted by COACH VELASQUEZ, 15 baseball alumni returned to the diamond to take on current players for a friendly competition.

Basketball alumni from the 1990s gathered at a Los Angeles Clippers game together to celebrate the 50th birthday of fellow Viking athlete ALEX LOPEZ ’94. While the game was the backdrop, the real highlight was a night spent reconnecting, sharing stories, and proving that the Viking spirit only gets better with age.

Alumni Reunion

Alumni Week

The fifth annual Alumni Week took place February 2-6, 2026, welcoming alumni from a wide range of professional fields back to campus to share their experiences and insights with K-12 students. Some alumni even showed up in their old uniforms! The week also featured a special Admissions tour for alumni interested in enrolling their children at Campbell Hall, as well as a lively playdate for the children of alumni.

Following a meaningful farewell chapel for the Lower Gym on May 30, more than 200 alumni gathered on the High School Quad for the annual reunion, celebrating classes ending ’1 and ’6. The evening featured food trucks serving pizza, pie, and burgers, along with two open bars, as alumni reconnected and reminisced about their time on campus.

Babies

CASSANDRA WILSON ’05 and her husband, Cale, welcomed Beau Cale Boyter on February 4, 2026.

ALEXIS ZAMPAS ’14 and BOBBY KING ’14 welcomed Ava James on April 29, 2026. Milo (2) is so excited to have a baby sister!

In Memoriam

RYAN KING ’98 passed away on May 10, 2026.

Weddings

ANTON NUOVO ’18 and GRACE JAMES ’18 met at Campbell Hall in 7th grade! They were married on March 28, 2026, in Santa Ynez, with a wedding party that included eight Campbell Hall alumni.

IMOGEN KER ’10

married Christian Fritsch on February 14, 2026, in Los Angeles, CA.

MATT WALLA ’10 married Margaret McDonald in San Francisco on May 18, 2026. Matt’s twin brother, David Walla ’10, officiated.

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