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Compass A MAGAZINE FOR THE CHADWICK COMMUNITY

I SUMMER 2026

EVERY JOURNEY BEGINS WITH CURIOSITY. STUDENTS EXPLORE HVAR, CROATIA.

VILLAGE STUDENTS WELCOMED A NEW CHADWICK MURAL TO THE UPPER VILLAGE ART BUILDING, WHERE INSPIRATION BLASTS OFF EVERY DAY!

CONTENTS

p. 40

p. 29 p. 15

p. 9

FEATURES

It Rains in Paradise — Jeju Island

NEWS

Years in the making, Chadwick and Chadwick International students realized Jeff Mercer’s dream program to Jeju Island, South Korea.

The Heart of Hvar, Croatia

Hear students’ perspectives on a Global Program exchange in Hvar, Croatia.

A Celebration of Jeff — Mercerfest Hundreds gathered in June 2026 to remember and celebrate the life of an educator and friend. . 2

COMPA S S M AG A ZINE

ALUMNI

News On The Hill

Alumni Connections

News from CI

Reunions

Commencement

Regional Events

Educator of the Year

Local Events

Photo Highlights

Class Notes

New Board of Trustee Members

A Rich History

A MESSAGE FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

The Courageous Pursuit of Goodness and Greatness

COMPASS Chadwick School Magazine // Summer 2026 HEAD OF SCHOOL Jessica Donovan

When Margaret Chadwick founded this school in 1935, she described her purpose simply: to habituate children to ways of living that are satisfying and worthwhile. Nine decades later, those words feel less like history and more like a compass bearing — a fixed point we return to each time the world shifts beneath our feet. And the world is shifting. Rapidly. The opportunities and changes that will take place over the next decade are both daunting and exciting. The questions parents and educators are asking about the future of learning are urgent and legitimate, and they deserve honest, thoughtful answers. At Chadwick, our answer is grounded in what we have always believed: that knowledge and imagination together produce something neither can achieve alone. That the cognitive skills a student acquires depend entirely on the role they are asked to play in their own learning. And that, in a world where AI can generate a competent essay in seconds, the qualities that cannot be automated — curiosity, ethical reasoning, empathy, resilience, the courage to sit with a hard question — are not soft skills. They are the curriculum. This belief is showing up in our work in concrete ways. Our teachers have been challenged to look at each lesson through what we are calling the Purposeful Engaging Active (PEA) framework. If the lesson doesn’t pass the PEA test, what can we do to modify it? This work continues to evolve as a structure across all four divisions. Our recently completed CAIS accreditation process affirmed what our community surveys reflect: that Chadwick is a school of significant academic strength, deep relational culture and meaningful programs — and that we are clear-eyed about the work still ahead. Those surveys also confirmed something we feel daily on this campus: that our parents and families chose Chadwick not merely for outcomes, but for values. They want their children to be known. They want relationships between students and teachers that go beyond content delivery. They want a school that takes seriously both goodness and greatness — not one at the expense of the other. And these values have been true for as long as Chadwick has been on this hilltop. This vision — the courageous pursuit of goodness and greatness — feels like the right frame for this moment. Courage, because the educational landscape is asking every school to make real choices about who it is and what it stands for. Pursuit, because learning is never done and we are a community of lifelong learners. Goodness, because character, dignity and community are not ornaments to a Chadwick education; they are its foundation. Greatness, because we hold high expectations: for rigorous thinking, for creative ambition, for students who leave here ready to lead in a world they will help shape. Ansel Adams, who photographed Chadwick in its early years, and whose work can be found in this year’s magazine, wrote that the school infused him with “a kind of creative drive and a marvelous human quality.” That quality — the combination of intellectual fire and human warmth — is what we are protecting and advancing. We stand on remarkable shoulders. We intend to reach further still, and I hope you see that reflected in this year’s edition of Compass magazine.

_________

OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS COMPASS EDITOR Michael Balsley COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER Tami Seeger COMPASS ART DIRECTOR Susan Piper COPYWRITING Michael Balsley Xavier Proctor Tami Seeger PHOTOGRAPHY Marie Chao Jeffrey Lorch Jack McGoldrick Xavier Proctor Chris Robertson Tami Seeger Stuart Wieten Stephen Zeigler

EMAIL pv-communications@chadwickschool.org WEBSITE / chadwickschool.org FACEBOOK / ChadwickSchool INSTAGRAM / @chadwickschool LINKEDIN / Chadwick School EDITOR’S NOTE: To provide feedback on the magazine, notify us of a change of address or to unsubscribe, contact the Office of Marketing and Communications: pv-communications@chadwickschool.org or (310) 377-1543.

ON T HE C O V E R JESSICA DONOVAN

Upper School students hike to the top of the Spanish Fortress in Hvartown, Croatia.

Head of School

SUMMER 2026

COMPA S S M AG A ZINE

SUMMER 2026

news ON THE HILL Robotics Team Wins at World Championship

Chadwick Robotics Team 2150A made history when they earned the Build Award at the 2026 VEX Robotics World Championship in St. Louis. Competing against many of the world’s top robotics teams, the students demonstrated exceptional engineering, collaboration and innovation on the international stage.

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL AND GIRLS GOLF FINISH AS CIF RUNNERS-UP The Girls Volleyball and Girls Golf teams finished as CIF Southern Section runners-up after remarkable postseason runs. Their success continued Chadwick’s tradition of excellence in athletics and showcased the determination and teamwork that define Dolphin sports.

Chadwick Celebrates Its 90th Year

Chadwick’s first day of school for 2025–26 was also its 90th first day of school. Students, faculty and staff gathered for a commemorative all-school photo to celebrate nine decades of learning, leadership and community. Seniors continued the tradition of giving stuffed dolphins to kindergartners, and the kindergartners gave the seniors hats.

COMPA S S M AG A ZINE

Chadwick Ocean Institute Receives AltaSea NextGen Award

The Chadwick Ocean Institute received the NextGen Award in recognition of its innovative environmental education and marine science programs. The honor celebrates Chadwick’s commitment to experiential learning and ocean stewardship.

BOYS GOLF WINS CIF CHAMPIONSHIP “The Laboratory” on Display

National Merit Scholars and Semifinalists

This 1895 John Collier oil painting was on display in the Leavenworth Library throughout October, on loan from the Arts of Imagination Foundation. The rare opportunity brought a museum-quality work of art to campus, giving students and faculty the chance to experience it as part of everyday school life.

Congratulations to the 22 Chadwick seniors who were named National Merit Commended Students. Six Chadwick seniors also advanced to Semifinalist standing in the National Merit Scholarship Program: Moshi Liu, Alistair Ross, Cadence Maas, Matthew Rosenbaum, Spencer Zeng and Derek Somers. Their achievements place them among the nation’s highest-performing students and reflect years of academic excellence.

Four Straight Homecoming Tug-of-War Championships

Four straight Homecoming Tug-of-War championships!? The Class of 2026 cemented its place in Chadwick lore with a fourth consecutive victory in one of the school’s most beloved traditions. It’s a record that can never be broken and one these seniors will never forget.

For the first time in school history, the Boys Golf team captured the CIF Southern Section Division 5 team championship. The historic victory marked a milestone for the program and capped an outstanding season.

STUDENT-ATHLETES COMMIT TO PLAY IN COLLEGE Chadwick honored three senior student-athletes who signed letters of intent to compete at the collegiate level: Amma Melton (soccer, Santa Clara University), Brooke Pyles (soccer, Milwaukee School of Engineering) and Julie Sweeney (water polo, Brown University). Their accomplishments reflect years of dedication in the classroom and in competition.

SUMMER 2026

news FROM CI Chadwick International School – Songdo, South Korea

Premier League Partnership

Chadwick International launched its exclusive partnership with the Premier League’s Tottenham Hotspur Football Club in fall 2025, giving K-12 students access to the club’s globally recognized coaching philosophy and curriculum. The football development program builds technical skills, tactical awareness, physical conditioning and leadership while offering select Village School and Middle School students the opportunity to train at Tottenham Hotspur’s Training Centre in London.

Soccer Tournament Success

Songdo Cup 2025 welcomed student-athletes from Chadwick School and across Korea for a weekend of spirited competition and community. The annual soccer tournament celebrated teamwork, sportsmanship and school pride, with Chadwick International students earning grade-level championships in Kindergarten girls and boys, Grade 1, Grade 2 and Grade 3 girls and boys, Grade 5 girls, Grade 6 boys, Grade 7 boys and Grade 8 girls.

Our First 10-Year Alumni Reunion

INTERNATIONAL EDUCATORS CONFERENCE CI hosted the Korea Council of Overseas Schools International Educators Conference 2025, welcoming hundreds of educators from across Korea and beyond. Centered on the theme, “What If? Reimagining Education Together,” the conference featured keynote speaker and author Kenneth Shelton, whose sessions explored the opportunities and challenges of AI in education. Chadwick faculty and staff also led workshops on topics ranging from coding and design to world languages, cultural understanding and child safeguarding.

COMPA S S M AG A ZINE

Alumni from the Classes of 2016 through 2025 returned to campus for the annual Winter Alumni Reunion in January. This year’s celebration marked a special milestone as the Class of 2016 — CI’s first graduating class — held its 10-year reunion. It was a wonderful opportunity to reconnect, reminisce and celebrate the growing alumni community.

Commencement 2026 The Class of 2026 celebrated Commencement in June as families, faculty, staff, alumni and trustees gathered to honor CI’s 11th graduating class. As graduates crossed the stage and passed through the gates, they marked the end of one chapter and the beginning of the next. Congratulations to the Class of 2026 and to all these graduates will accomplish in the years ahead.

Student Filmmakers Honored

In January 2026, Upper School International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) Film 1 and Film 2 students earned international recognition at Babel 48, a global 48-hour filmmaking competition. Students wrote, cast, filmed and edited their entries within the deadline. Both CI films, “Oldmaid” and “The Ritual,” were named finalists, and “The Ritual” took first runner-up — the program’s second consecutive runner-up finish.

SHAKESPEARE’S DEBUT

The Upper School presented its first Shakespearean production, “The Tempest,” delivering memorable performances that showcased the talent and dedication of the cast, crew, student directors and faculty. Every performance reflected months of creativity, collaboration and artistry, bringing Shakespeare’s timeless story of magic, hope, love and humor to life.

Raising Awareness and Doing Good

The entire CI community came together for the annual Chadwick Can! Never Give Up Run for children’s cancer research and care. Through this event, a portion of the donations from CI’s first Annual Day of Giving went toward Abbie’s Army, which funds research for diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), and the Korea Pediatric Cancer Foundation, which supports children battling cancer throughout Korea.

SUMMER 2026

CO NGR ATUL ATI O NS

Class of 2026

CHADWICK SCHOOL 2026 GRADUATES Benjamin Abraham Soraya Likyelesh Fouladi Adefris Katherine Oremalee Akens Maclaren Olivia Valencia Allen Lucas Aiden Armandpour Diana Ali Awad Sophia Azzam Eleanor Diana Baldovin Haley Ray Bartleson Christopher Kayne Belen Peyton Rose Brantley Harper Buttles 10

COMPA S S M AG A ZINE

Mia Sloan Cabrera Zach Xiaoke Chen Hannah Bae Choi Jeanie C. Chua Brandon C. Cook Lucy Ambrose Cushman Layla Ophelia-Rose Daniels Abigail Elizabeth Davies Brooke Cameron Dillavou John Zubin Eapen Bryson Harlan Edgar Niki Ferdows

Liberty Anya Figueroa Hunter Mason George Luke Matteo Ghammachi Ella Katherine Goedemans Asher Scott Goldberg Emma Grace Gorrell Kayla Gwynne Grohman Lina Meiliang Gu Matthew Guo Anders Keady Gustafson Samantha Grace Haas Juliet Ella Halvorsen

Gavin Mack Hanson Lars Taylor Harmon Ryan Scott Harrington Zhihao Hu Keira Rae Kallis Sasha Mae Kaufer Elizabeth Hope Kim Storey Tiffany Kuo Grant Michael Lang Bom Rowena Lee Derrick Lee Gaoyi (Tiffany) Li

Hou Tong Li Winston Lin Moshi Liu Cadence Marie Maas Ian George Malishka Amanda Nicole Melton Keefe Whitman Mooney Daniela Morales Carly Ann Neal Thomas Jackson Newman Nathaniel James Nguyen Abisola Elizabeth Ogundimu

Sebastian Luke Polonis Brooke Elizabeth Pyles Jai N. Ratnayake Hamish Henry Reiter Callen Elle Rhode Lucas Saehyun Ro Ezekiel Woldu Robel Matthew Stirling Rosenbaum Alistair Gawyn Toyohi Ross Miranda Rose Santana Nicolas James Barreiro Santos Emma Grace Schleifer

Michael Truman Schnabel Sadie Lucille Scott Olivia Bell Simms Malik Louis Sims Derek Glenn Somers Sera Grace Christiansen Stanley Sienna Jacqueline Christiansen Stanley Finn Malcolm Steele Julie Grace Sweeney Yuta Sean Takahashi Preston Hong Tao Araya Semhar Tekeste

Benjamin Marshall Millett Wandrick Xinke Wang Nika Tallah Westernoff Jacob Jung-Hyun Wetzel Evan Yao Spencer Zeng

SUMMER 2026

Lucy Cushman STUDENT BODY PRESIDENT // Commencement Speech

I planned to write this speech in a picturesque Sierra Nevada landscape during my senior Outdoor Ed solo. I thought being out there would bring me a big epiphany and the perfect words, but it turns out it’s much harder than that. As many of you experienced or heard, the first two days of solo were basically a snowstorm. It’s hard to be profound when you’re alone in the snow with only a sleeping bag and a little tarp, and you can literally smell the smoke from the fire your instructors built far away. But maybe that’s the perfect analogy for our time at Chadwick. Was it always easy? Absolutely not. Sometimes we expected clear skies and a great view but got snowstorms instead. We arrived with ideas about what high school would be like — our classes, our experiences and the people we would become. Then reality showed up. Snowflakes started to fall: the tests that kicked our butts, late nights, college applications and those moments when it felt like everyone else had something figured out that we didn’t. And yes, there were days when we smelled the smoke of someone else’s campfire — a friend’s easier homework load, Friday night lights or a different path altogether. But I found that when we fully embraced our own reality, everything became more meaningful. I remember sitting in my sleeping bag under my flimsy tarp, eating a block of Monterey Jack cheese with crushed Ritz crackers and laughing out loud. Partly because it was ridiculous, but mostly because I genuinely wasn’t unhappy. I knew I was living through something that would become a great story, something more valuable than taking the easy way out. The whole time I was out there, I also knew that if I blew my whistle, Amma or Chris or Keefe or anyone else in my group would come running. I was on my own, but never truly alone. That is one of the greatest gifts Chadwick has given us. Whenever people ask what makes Chadwick special, nobody starts with the classes or the campus. We talk about the people — the teachers who really knew us, the friends who made us laugh until we cried on the deck or the lawn and the countless moments someone simply showed up. This community has been our whistle. As we leave this place, don’t leave those relationships behind. Call your friends. Email your teachers. Text the person you always meant to know better. Everyone likes being checked on, so don’t be afraid to reach out first.

COMPA S S M AG A ZINE

Keep building community in college. It won’t happen automatically anymore. We won’t always have someone assigned to sit next to in class or at lunch. But Chadwick has prepared us. We’ve learned how to ask thoughtful questions, seek help, collaborate and, most importantly, build meaningful relationships. Of course, there were also days when the sun came out. On the second full day of solo, the snow melted and revealed a vibrant green meadow. It was breathtaking. For me, those moments were Homecoming week, dancing with friends at formal and prom, arguing over trivia answers and spending hours talking on the deck with so many of you. As I sat in that meadow, I could still see the snow-covered mountains in the distance. Years from now, Chadwick will be our mountains. When life gets difficult, we’ll look back on this place and remember what we accomplished here — the studying, the games, the performances, the adventures, the successes and the failures. We’ll remember that we have weathered the storm and came out stronger because of them. I’d like to end with the first poem that ever really stayed with me. I may have found it scrolling Instagram when I should have been doing homework, but I couldn’t stop thinking about it. Here’s an excerpt from “Wonderful” by Harry Baker:

) wonderful ) “May you be seriously silly, may you be wickedly kind. May you certainly have doubts, may your weirdness be the norm. May the coolest thing about you be your warmth. May you be powerfully vulnerable, or at least mightily soft. May you always make room for playfulness. It may just save your life. And trust whatever makes your heart grow cannot be a waste of time. It may not make you money. It may not even make sense. But if it makes you happy, it is worth it in the end. There is more in you than you could possibly imagine. The very fact that you exist makes everything a bit more magic. The wonderful reality: the best is yet to come.”

Storey Kuo SENIOR CLASS PRESIDENT // Commencement Speech

I’ve had the privilege of serving as class president for the last three years, and I’ve been thinking about my freshman-year self and everything that’s happened since then. If I could somehow go back in time and meet the version of me walking onto campus for the first time, there are a lot of things I’d want to tell her. I’d tell her not to stress so much about math and chemistry tests, grades, college applications or starting a club. I’d tell her to stop fearing every mistake. And I’d tell her that, even though I didn’t believe it at the time, my mom was right: Everything happens for a reason, and things have a way of working out. But most importantly, I’d tell her to pay attention. Because one day, the routine would become the part she’d miss the most. While writing this speech, I kept coming back to a song called “Good Old Days” by Macklemore. There’s a lyric that says: “I wish somebody had told me, babe, someday these will be the good old days.” That’s what today feels like. Before our lives scatter in every direction, I want us to remember “the good old days.” Whether you were a WOW who started in kindergarten, joined in sixth grade, ninth grade or somewhere, we all thought the Class of 2026 felt impossibly far away. Somehow we’re already here. For the WOWs, it began 13 years ago in the Lower Village. There were only two classrooms — the Sun Room and the Moon Room. We started our mornings singing “Hasta la Vista,” raced to the pizza swings at recess and thought those moments would last forever. A few years later came the Upper Village. We said the Pledge of Allegiance every morning, learned from teachers like Ms. Wong and Mr. Risk, made art with our parents during Art at Your Fingertips and collected hugs from Ms. Cho — who, somehow, is still hugging us today. Then came sixth grade, when we were caught between childhood and Middle School. We met classmates who would become lifelong friends, watched Coach Coate project the COVID map as red dots slowly spread across the screen and had no idea how much our lives were about to change. And seventh grade meant Zoom classes, awkward breakout rooms, jumping jacks in our bedrooms and sneaking in games of “Among Us” whenever we thought our cameras were off. Then came the Upper School. We said goodbye to some friends and found others who became family. We built our first fort — even if it was mostly a tablecloth taped around a tent. We somehow won tug-of-war four years in a row. We backpacked through Joshua Tree, squeezed through the crawl, dressed up for dances, claimed the senior deck as our own, survived

calculus, Shakespeare and Apex deadlines, and somehow made it here together. None of those moments seemed particularly important while they were happening. Now they’re everything. Those ordinary Tuesdays, conversations between classes, lunches on the lawn and late nights studying have become the stories we’ll tell for the rest of our lives. And those memories only exist because of the people who shared them with us. To our faculty and staff: Thank you for treating us like family. Every one of us has found mentors who believed in us, challenged us and cared for us far beyond the classroom. You didn’t just teach us subjects — you taught us confidence, resilience and kindness. To our parents, guardians and loved ones: Thank you for every early morning, every late-night pickup, every celebration and every disappointment you helped us through. Thank you for believing in us even when we doubted ourselves. Everything we’ve accomplished is built on your love and sacrifice. And to our classmates: Thank you. Thank you for making these “the good old days.” Thank you for the friendships, the laughter, the inside jokes, the victories, the setbacks and the moments that somehow became unforgettable. For those of us with siblings here at Chadwick, we’ve been lucky enough to share this journey together. I’d especially like to thank my brother, Brad, for being my built-in best friend these past 10 years. And for those without siblings, Chadwick has a way of creating families anyway. We’ve found little sisters, older brothers and lifelong friends in every grade. That’s the magic of this place. As I look out today, there’s one final thing I’d tell that freshman version of myself: I’d tell her about all of you. Because the greatest gift Chadwick gave us wasn’t a transcript, a college acceptance or a resume. It was the people sitting beside us today. So before we walk across this stage, take one moment to look around. Really look! This is the only time the Class of 2026 will ever exist exactly like this again. One day, we’ll remember this campus, these classrooms and these traditions. But more than anything, we’ll remember each other — the people who watched us grow up, who saw us succeed and fail, who made us laugh until we cried and who became our second family. So wherever life takes us next, don’t forget these people. Because someday, sooner than we think, we’ll look back and realize these really were “the good old days.”

Congratulations, Class of 2026. Thank you for making these days unforgettable.

SUMMER 2026

CLASS OF 2026 COLLEGE ADMISSIONS Members of the Class of 2026 received 549 offers of admission from 187 different colleges and universities, and will attend 54 different colleges and universities. Last updated July 15, 2026. Information subject to change. COLLEGE

ADMIT/ATTEND

Allegheny College American University Arizona State University (Tempe) Auburn University Babson College Bard College Baylor University Belmont University Bocconi University Boston College Boston University Bowdoin College Brandeis University Brown University Bryn Mawr College Bucknell University Butler University California Lutheran University Cal Poly – Humboldt Cal Poly – Pomona Cal Poly – San Luis Obispo California State University – Chico Cal State – Dominguez Hills Cal State – Fresno Cal State – Fullerton Cal State – Long Beach Cal State – Los Angeles Cal State – Northridge Cal State – Stanislaus Case Western Reserve University Chapman University Claremont McKenna College Clark Atlanta University Clemson University Colgate University College of Charleston Colorado State University – Fort Collins Columbia University Concordia University (Irvine) Cornell University Dartmouth College DePaul University DePauw University Dickinson College Drexel University Duke University Durham University Elon University Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (Daytona Beach) Emerson College Escuela Superior de Administración y Dirección de Empresas Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University Fordham University Furman University George Fox University George Washington University Georgetown University Georgia Institute of Technology Gonzaga University Hampton University Howard University

COMPA S S M AG A ZINE

1 5/1 5 2 4/2 1 2 1 1/1 1/1 9/2 2/2 2 1/1 1 2 2/1 2 2 7 2/1 1 2 1 5/1 3 1 3 1 1/1 8/1 1 1 2 2 4 3 1/1 1 4/3 1/1 1 1 1 2 2/1 1 2 1 1 1 3/1 11/1 1 1 2 3 1/1 3 2 3/2

COLLEGE

ADMIT/ATTEND

IE University Indiana University – Bloomington Ithaca College James Madison University Johns Hopkins University King’s College London Lewis & Clark College Loyola Marymount University Loyola University Chicago Macalester College Marist University Miami University – Oxford Michigan State University Middlebury College Milwaukee School of Engineering Montana State University Mount Holyoke College Mount Saint Mary’s University New York University North Carolina A&T State University North Carolina State University Northeastern University Northern Arizona University Oberlin College Occidental College Oregon State University Otis College of Art and Design Pace University (New York City) Pennsylvania State University Pepperdine University Pitzer College Portland State University Pratt Institute Purdue University Reed College Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Rhode Island School of Design Rhodes College Rice University Rochester Institute of Technology Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology Rutgers University (New Brunswick) San Diego State University San Francisco State University San Jose State University Santa Clara University Savannah College of Art and Design Scripps College Seattle University Skidmore College Smith College Southern Methodist University Spelman College St. John’s University St. Lawrence University Suffolk University Syracuse University Temple University Texas Christian University The University of Edinburgh The University of Montana The University of Tennessee Tufts University Tulane University of Louisiana

2 14 1 1 1 3 3 21/6 1 2 1 1 5 1/1 1/1 1 1 1 3/3 2 1 13/5 1 1 4 1 1 1 8/1 2/1 3 1 1 7 2 3 1 1/1 2/2 3/1 1 1 1 2 3 6/2 2 1 1 2/1 2/1 11/2 1/1 1 1 1 3 2 5 2 1 1/1 3/1 3/1

COLLEGE

ADMIT/ATTEND

University College London 2/1 University of Arizona 3 University of California – Berkeley 5/3 University of California – Davis 7 University of California – Irvine 6 University of California – Los Angeles 8/2 University of California – Merced 6 University of California – Riverside 8 University of California – San Diego 6 University of California – Santa Barbara 10 University of California – Santa Cruz 19 University of Chicago 4/4 University of Cincinnati (Main Campus) 1 University of Colorado Boulder 16/1 University of Denver 1 University of Georgia 1 University of Hawai’i at Mānoa 1 University of Illinois – Urbana-Champaign 3 University of Iowa 1 University of Kansas 1 University of Leeds 1 University of Maryland 1 University of Miami 7 University of Michigan 2/2 University of Minnesota 2 University of Mississippi 1 University of Missouri 2 University of New Haven 1 University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill 6/2 University of Notre Dame 1 University of Oregon 16/2 University of Pittsburgh 1 University of Puget Sound 3 University of Redlands 1 University of Richmond 1 University of Rochester 2 University of San Diego 4 University of San Francisco 1 University of South Carolina 2 University of Southern California 13/3 University of St Andrews 3 University of Texas – Austin 1 University of Toronto 1 University of Utah 4 University of Vermont 2 University of Virginia 2 University of Washington – Seattle 6 University of Wisconsin – Madison 11/4 Utah State University 1 Vanderbilt University 3/2 Villanova University 1/1 Wake Forest University 1/1 Washington State University 1 Washington University in St. Louis 1 Wellesley College 1 Whittier College 1 Willamette University 2 Williams College 1/1 Woodbury University 1 Worcester Polytechnic Institute 1 Xavier University of Louisiana 1 Yale University 2/2

SUMMER 2026

wows! Class of 2026 Benjamin Abraham Maclaren Allen Diana Awad Eleanor Baldovin Haley Bartleson Brandon Cook Asher Goldberg Lars Harmon Ryan Harrington

COMPA S S M AG A ZINE

Sasha Kaufer Storey Kuo Derrick Lee Keefe Mooney Brooke Pyles Derek Somers Finn Steele Julie Sweeney Nika Westernoff

TREE & AWARDS CEREMONY Cum Laude Society Class of 2026 Members

Class of 2027 Members Inducted in 2026

Katherine Akens* Lucy Cushman Lina Gu* Matthew Guo Storey Kuo* Derrick Lee* Tiffany Li* Winston Lin* Allen Liu* Cadence Maas* Callen Rhode Derek Somers* Sera Grace Stanley Finn Steele Clark Wang* Nika Westernoff* Evan Yao* Spencer Zeng*

Lorelei Burke Harrison Lai Evelyn Lee Sofia Luong Adelaide O’Gorman Ella Satterthwaite Kevin Wang Sophie Zhang Upper School Awards Citizenship Award

Jeanie Chua John Eapen Anders Gustafson Hope Kim Founders Award

Mia Cabrera Olivia Simms Araya Tekeste

Head of School Award

Lucy Cushman Layla Daniels Lina Gu Community Leadership Award

Frank Quinlin Journalism Award

Jeanie Chua Lina Gu Cadence Maas Evan Yao

Peyton Brantley Derrick Lee Hamish Reiter Finn Steele

Athlete of the Year Award

Lee-Stephens Award

Sartorius Award

Jillian Dickens Mikayla Spielberger

Mia Cabrera Asher Goldberg Sebastian Polonis

Performing Arts Award

Araya Tekeste Lucas Ro

Brooke Dillavou

Bina Mandal Swimming Award

Visual Arts Award

Abbi Davies Sam Wang

Sera Grace Stanley

* Inducted as juniors – April 2025

SUMMER 2026

IT RAINS IN PARADISE On a Global Program years in the making, Middle School students dive deep with the Haenyeo — and each other — on Jeju Island, South Korea.

his year, it’s raining. The kids grip their orange flotation devices, or “taewaks,” and their swim fins, preparing to go into water that is 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Some have never used a snorkel before; others have forgotten to prep their masks, which, when untreated, will fog up. Students and chaperones sit on the cold cement steps on the dock as they receive directions from the diving instructors. For reasons they can’t yet explain, there’s a quiet sense of uncertainty. As the kids scoot down the steps and get into the water, one by one, yelps fill the air from the shock of the cold water. Today, this group of 21 Chadwick and Chadwick International (CI) Middle Schoolers is doing as the Haenyeo do. This was one of Jeff’s dreams. Jeff Mercer was an instrumental part of Chadwick for 29 years and, as Director of the Middle School, was the architect of the Chadwick Immersion Program (ChIP Week), now in its third year. This is just one of 13 experiences taking place as part of ChIP Week. For seven days, 177 Middle Schoolers descend on various countries, states and destinations for international, national and local programming designed to move beyond traditional classroom learning toward deep, meaningful engagement with the world.

COMPA S S M AG A ZINE

Having spent three years in Songdo as the Interim Head of School at Chadwick International, Jeff developed a deep appreciation for Korean culture, particularly a community of female free divers from Jeju Island, called the Haenyeo, who harvest seafood from the ocean floor. The practice, which dates back centuries, was recently recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. These women, many of whom are now in their 70s and 80s, are part of a tradition that is slowly disappearing. Diving up to 33 feet deep, the Haenyeo harvest shellfish like sea urchins and abalone without the aid of air tanks. The Haenyeo work for as many as seven hours a day during diving season, providing much-needed income for their families. Developing global citizens requires more than just traveling the globe, eating the food or visiting culturally significant landmarks. Director of Global Education Tommy Hattori explains, “It’s actually really easy to travel and not authentically

[

“It was really important to Jeff that the Haenyeo weren’t this idea we went and saw or read about, but the people that we tried to truly gain empathy for.”

engage with the people that live there, to not understand their view of the world. It was really important to Jeff that the Haenyeo weren’t this thing we went and saw or read about, but something that we tried to truly gain empathy for.” Chadwick Middle Schoolers are struggling to go deeper than a couple of feet below the surface. The duck-dive technique requires a great deal of core strength to fight the buoyancy of the wetsuit and the lilting ocean waves. Palos Verdes eighth grader Noah recounts, “The hardest part was just being able to go under water and stay there. When I was diving, I kept thinking, ‘Old ladies do this! Why can’t I stay under!’ It doesn’t just take breathing ability, it also takes, like, strength and knowing the waters well.” The Haenyeo can hold their breath for up to four minutes at a time to gather sea urchin, abalone and octopus. Divers are especially attuned to the ocean with an intimate understanding of the tides and local marine ecosystems. Chadwick’s program begins with developing greater observational knowledge of the local marine life under the guidance of Dr. Dijanna Figueroa, Director of Chadwick’s Ocean Institute. On another gray, cold morning, donning their wetsuits, the kids huddle together on Hamdeok Beach. They spend the morning in an ocean science lesson on Jeju’s unique volcanic characteristics and learn about the effect of the moon on the tides. While sipping hot cocoa and munching on sweet garlic toast, students sketch the shores of the beach in preparation for a survey of the local tide pools. The moon is just rising over the horizon and the tidal force is currently at low tide — but not for much longer.

The black volcanic rocks are dotted across the beach, creating tricky terrain. In mixed teams, students carefully and urgently hunt for signs of life in the surrounding tide pools. They point out mollusks and other creatures to each other, documenting each one they find. Dr. Figueroa points out that the blue specks in the volcanic rock are called olivine, created by the immense pressure and heat of an eruption and the rapid cooling process. If the tide wasn’t on its way in, it would be easy to do this all day. The rest of the week is filled with excursions to visit some of the UNESCO World Heritage sites, like Cheonjiyeonpokpo Falls and the Yakcheonsa Temple, but also many Korean barbecue spots, the world-famous O’Sulloc Tea Museum, the Ramyeon Library, many convenience stores and the Dongmun Street Market. Students watch video anthologies of Haenyeo stories at the Haenyeo Museum, participate in a craft project and watch a dinner theater production based on the life story of the head chef, a retired Haenyeo. The towns are dotted with tangerine trees, volcanic rock walls and rock statues called dol hareubang. The kids ask every few hours when is the next time they can play SUMMER 2026

volleyball together. The tide is low again. One of the greatest cultural exchanges of the trip actually happens during the in-between, while waiting or en route. The moments that aren’t filled. The bus was always loud, filled with storytelling, jokes, games, laughter and singing. Noah recalls, “I remember we were singing a lot, especially on the bus rides. It was actually one of my favorite parts, singing in a big group.” Lana agrees, “[Singing] was really fun, and it felt a little less divided, like this is one big group. It made it feel like we were all going on this experience together.” Coincidentally, the Haenyeo also have a tradition of singing songs together. The Jeju folk song “Ieodo Sana” was sung when sailing out to sea, with the belief that the great beyond lay just beneath the boat. On the precipice of life and death, they sang this song to muster up courage and hope for a safe return. Every so often, people’s hearts merge as they sing. The students felt it, too, though few could have explained it in words. The trip home to LAX is 22 hours and starts at 4 a.m. By the time the group’s first connecting flight arrives in Songdo, there have been two rounds of Maroon 5’s “Memories.” As they step off the bus, the students weave in and around each other, not wanting to miss saying goodbye to anyone. Tears escape as one hug starts and another ends. This is where they will leave their friends from CI. These kids loved each other, hard. It was awkward at times, and there were disagreements. Reminders of kindness and care in their communication always brought them back together, a feat remarkable for students from two Chadwick Schools who had only just met seven days before.

COMPA S S M AG A ZINE

They are all still on a group chat together, 100 new messages waiting each morning. The time difference means the Palos Verdes contingent is awake while South Korea sleeps.” In doing the work of becoming a global citizen, you build a network of support that spans time zones, cultures and generations. What a gift it is to have people all over the world who know and love you. The first year of the Jeju program was superlative in nearly every way — the experiences with the Haenyeo, the engagement of the students, even the weather. CI’s Director of Global Citizenship and Community Senedra Newsome recalls, “The first year, everything was perfect. The only thing missing was Jeff.” The day before he was set to depart, Jeff was diagnosed with a cancer that would prevent him from joining the inaugural trip to Jeju. To the great sadness of the Chadwick and Chadwick International communities, Jeff would pass away less than a year later. One of Jeff’s last gifts to Chadwick is a once-ina-lifetime experience that brings together his life’s greatest passions: middle schoolers, South Korea, history and the ocean. While it rains in paradise, the deep connections we make along the way shine all the brighter. Written for Compass by Tami Seeger

Dive deeper and view our Jeju Island photo gallery.

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Haenyeo Divers of South Korea’s Jeju Island

Haenyeo are legendary female free-divers from South Korea’s Jeju Island. Operating without air tanks, they hold their breath for four minutes and dive to depths of up to 33 feet to harvest abalone, sea urchins and seaweed.This centuries-old matriarchal tradition is recognized globally for its ecological sustainability and community-led management.

Five lesser-known facts about the Haenyeo They communicate with a signature whistle called sumbisori. After holding their breath underwater, Haenyeo surface with a distinctive whistling exhale known as sumbisori. It's more than just breathing — it quickly replenishes oxygen, and signals to nearby divers that they have resurfaced safely. Experienced divers can often recognize one another by the sound alone.

Their "locker rooms" were open-air stone shelters called bulteok. Before modern facilities, Haenyeo gathered in circular stone enclosures with a central fire. These bulteok served as changing rooms, warming stations, classrooms, meeting halls and places where younger divers learned from elders. They were the social heart of every diving village.

They practiced sustainable harvesting centuries before it became fashionable. Haenyeo follow strict community rules that prohibit harvesting juvenile shellfish, avoid over-collecting and rotate diving areas to allow marine ecosystems to recover. Fishing cooperatives enforce these traditions, making the culture a remarkable example of community-based marine conservation.

Their work helped create one of Korea's rare matrifocal societies. Because the women often earned the family's primary income, many households on Jeju Island placed women in positions of economic authority. This was highly unusual in traditional societies and gave Haenyeo an influence that extended well beyond the shoreline.

The Jeju folk song ‘Ieodo Sana‘ was sung when sailing out to sea, with the belief that the great beyond lay just beneath the boat.

Cold-water diving changed their bodies over a lifetime. Long before insulated wetsuits became common, Haenyeo dove year-round in frigid seas wearing only thin cotton clothing. Studies found that veteran divers developed exceptional cold tolerance, efficient cardiovascular responses and remarkable breath-holding abilities — physiological adapations built through decades of repeated exposure rather than genetics alone.

Photo by Kurt Chambers SUMMER 2026

THE HEART OF HVAR

Designing a Blueprint for Global Human Connection

THIS SUMMER, FIVE CHADWICK UPPER SCHOOLERS VENTURED TO THE ISLAND OF HVAR, CROATIA — specifically the seaside village of Jelsa — for a two-week design challenge and leadership program with seven Croatian peers from the Splitbased nonprofit Jedna Mladost (One Youth). In collaboration with the Field School of Hvar, the 12 students designed regenerative apparel, accessories and workshops that serve the needs of the Field School while reflecting the island’s culture and values.

MARLEY: I didn’t have any idea what Croatia was like because I’d never been here before and I didn’t know anybody from here. I just knew there was a sea. MARITA: I think others assume that because we’re direct that all of us are rude. But we’re really not. Wherever you go, all you have to do is say “hi” and the person is excited to talk to you.

Throughout the experience, Chadwick student Marley and Croatian peer Marita reflected on what they learned.

COMPA S S M AG A ZINE

Home to centuries-old olive groves, vineyards and the UNESCO-recognized Stari Grad Plain, Hvar’s history and tradition remain deeply connected to daily life. Yet the island also faces modern pressures, including seasonal tourism, the rise of mass-produced apparel and single-use plastics.

Rather than visiting as tourists, students focused on actively contributing to the island’s longterm ecological and cultural well-being in an effort to move beyond the passive consumption of a destination. Their work centered on two challenges. In the Zero Kilometer Design Challenge, students researched local craft traditions to prototype a sustainable school uniform, a backpack, an adventure kit and workshops for the Field School of Hvar. The second asked each student to develop a personal “Leadership Blueprint” reflecting their own values and purpose. Through workshops, interviews and cultural excursions, students learned the design process, sewing, mending, customization and public speaking while exploring a regenerative approach to their thinking.

MARLEY: In the project where we built the perfect carryall bag for our partner, we spent time interviewing them, which was fun because we had to ask detailed questions about their life and create something specific. MARITA: My favorite workshop was when we created mood boards because we had the freedom to express how we felt and what we were grateful for. It was colorful and messy, which is the best. Visiting historic places like Hvar Town, the Fortica (Fortress) and Stari Grad, students spoke with residents and business owners, revealing both the pride people have in their island and the challenges they face. Many spoke about olive trees, lavender, vineyards and the sea as defining parts of Hvar’s identity. Others described the realities of a seasonal economy and the need for more sustainable infrastructure, including public water fountains to reduce reliance on singleuse plastic bottles. Those conversations directly shaped the students’ designs. Working through multiple rounds of feedback, teams created prototypes that balanced durability, functionality and sustainability while incorporating colors,

materials and imagery inspired by Hvar. Every decision reflected the needs of the Field School, its families and its students. MARITA: My favorite part of the process was when we designed our prototypes because we had to share our thoughts and combine them together. I also liked actually making the prototypes because I wasn’t expecting to do that. It was nice to do something with my hands. The program concluded with student presentations to Field School staff, parents and community members. Students used storytelling to connect their experiences and findings to each design. On the final night, students shared their own leadership journeys, reflecting on the past two weeks and confiding their hopes for the future. Themes of openness, staying true to oneself and a desire to positively impact the world emerged as they connected their trip experiences to changes they planned to make at home. For Marley, the experience also reshaped her understanding of community.

MARLEY: The thing I’ll miss the most is the closeness to nature and how full our days are. In Los Angeles, you have to drive 30 minutes to go on a hike. Here, pine trees and the beach are just steps away. I’ll also miss how close everyone is. I can just go knock on your door. MARITA: I see my friends every day because we’re right next to each other. Perhaps the greatest lesson of leadership is allowing yourself to be changed by the people and places you encounter. By designing with — rather than simply for — the people of Hvar, these students left with more than prototypes. They returned home with new friendships, a deeper understanding of another culture and a clearer sense of the kind of leaders they hope to become.

Explore the heart of Hvar by viewing our gallery.

SUMMER 2026

TWO STUDENTS — Kayla, from California, and Vlatka, from the Croatian program Jedna Mladost (One Youth) — spent two weeks together at the Field School of Hvar, mending, designing and reinterpreting Croatian heritage into clothing built to last. Somewhere between the workshops, the local tours and the gelato, they became friends.

This is their conversation, lightly edited. What was the first thing the two of you bonded over?

KAYLA: “So cute” became our inside joke. We were using film cameras here, so there’s no preview — you can’t see how the photo turned out. Every time one of us took a picture of something, we’d look at the back of the camera and just say “so cute.” Pretty soon we were saying it all the time. VLATKA: Anna, Antea and I invited Kayla for coffee, we stayed there for hours and talked all night in our room about basically everything. We talked about video games we like, taught them about Croatia, our food, our drinks. We got them hooked on vanilla Nescafé. So, so good. You come from very different places. The “Zero Kilometer Design Challenge” asked you to think about how where you are from shows up in what you wear. What stood out to you?

VLATKA: A lot of Americans dress so athletic — comfortable pants, comfy shirts. We don’t dress like that. I’m always in jeans, even when it’s hot. And I expected them to pack way more stuff. I was shocked because Kayla didn’t. Here it’s important to dress light and airy so you don’t overheat. KAYLA: A lot of what I buy at home is fast fashion — it kind of goes bad after a couple of washes. After being in Croatia, I think it’s more important to buy things that are handmade or made from natural materials. It lasts longer, and it’s better for the earth. I learned to sew and was thinking if I had any old clothes, I could practice sewing on them to make them more to my liking. Was there a chaotic, funny or creative breakthrough during the challenge?

KAYLA: When we were brainstorming what to make, Mr. Cestero was like, “Imagine you have a million dollars — what would you do?” And he gave us one minute. It was honestly so many ideas and so few ideas at the same time. I just couldn’t think of anything. Very chaotic. What about the food here in Hvar?

VLATKA: We put olive oil on everything, so it wasn’t new to me. We have an olive tree in front of our apartment — we make tea from the leaves. A lot of our family and friends have olive groves too, so we buy from them in these huge three-liter bottles and store it in the basement to use all year.

COMPA S S M AG A ZINE

Students designed regenerative apparel, accessories and workshops for the Field School that serve the needs of the program and represent Hvar.

favorite colors because it’s so bright, and it represents growth. The material’s harder. I feel like we should come up with that one together. When the work was done, and you were just hanging out, what did you like learning about each other?

VLATKA: I’ve been teaching her Croatian words, and I enjoy listening to her mispronounce them. She’s been teaching me Chinese, and I’m so bad at it. KAYLA: I also enjoy listening to her mispronounce words. VLATKA: You can just see the joy in her eyes when I say it wrong. But it’s so fun, because the two languages are so different. KAYLA: On the boat tour I brought my Sour Patch Kids, and Vlatka ate a lot of it. It was really funny — and so cute! — she was so happy and curious, like it was a whole new experience. It’s nice to see her try something new. VLATKA: That candy’s really good. KAYLA: I’ll send you some with a pigeon. (They laugh.)

Did meeting each other change what you expected about the cultures you come from?

And if you designed one piece of clothing for the two of you?

VLATKA: I thought Americans would be a lot more stuck up, especially coming from a private school. I thought they’d be disappointed with the place, the weather, that they’d complain all the time. Turns out I’m the one complaining. They exceeded my expectations — nice, humble, funny. I hope we stay in touch, and maybe one day they invite us to LA.

VLATKA: Maybe a hoodie.

KAYLA: Before this trip I didn’t really know anything about Croatia. I had no idea what to expect; I signed up because my sister Sophie was going. And then I met all these really nice girls. I would totally come back — it’s so beautiful. I’m so happy I signed up. If your friendship were a single color or material, what would it be?

VLATKA: Green. It reminds me of the island — everything is green right now, the trees, the leaves. And because of a little project we did our first night together. Green is one of my

KAYLA: A very airy hoodie. VLATKA: A linen hoodie. KAYLA: Yeah, with the KPop Demon Hunter patterns on it, and maybe something green too. We watched it together during our free time. It’s a lot better to watch it with friends than watching it alone. What will you miss most?

KAYLA: The gelato and the Nescafé. It’s just so good here. VLATKA: Not the heat — I have that at home. The sea is clear, but I’m kind of used to that. Mostly I’ll miss the people. You’re all so nice. Also, the teachers. This is so sad. I like all of you. Written for Compass by Tami Seeger

SUMMER 2026

2026 Educator of the Year Pete Nordlund

COMPA S S M AG A ZINE

In the fall of 2025, the Palos Verdes Peninsula Rotary Club recognized Pete Nordlund as Chadwick School’s Educator of the Year. WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT TEACHING? What I love most about teaching history is the opportunity to give students something higher to love. In history class, students outgrow easy answers for the slower, harder work of seeking truth through evidence. They learn that the things worthy of their admiration are rarely black and white. They discover that holding conflicting ideas isn’t a sign of confusion — it’s a feature of a maturing intellect. By understanding perspectives vastly different from their own, they might learn to live decently among neighbors in a pluralistic democracy.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT WORKING WITH UPPER SCHOOL STUDENTS OR ABOUT TEACHING HISTORY? I’m on a mission to try to cultivate in young people an appreciation for America’s highest ideals. This nation has always fallen short of its ideals. At times, it makes a mockery of them. But the United States is a disappointment precisely because it is also a hope. Over centuries, our universalist promises of liberty, equality, e pluribus unum, have integrated unparalleled numbers of people from every corner of the globe and produced a society that — by historical measures — is wealthier, healthier, freer, safer, more educated, more peaceful, more diverse and more inclusive in its pursuit of justice than any that came before it. I love teaching students about America’s historical pursuit of these ideals because I hope they continue it.

HOW DO YOU CONNECT WITH YOUR STUDENTS AND KEEP THEM ENGAGED?

“

Students discover that holding conflicting ideas isn’t a sign of confusion — it’s a feature of a maturing intellect.”

For my entire career, I’ve worked hard to backward design my lessons, and I’ve never stopped asking myself a series of questions: What will my students be doing during this lesson? What historical questions, what skills, what documents are my students wrestling with today? What understandings are their efforts building to? How will they demonstrate this? Are these understandings worthy of my students’ time and attention, and ideally, their love?

WHAT’S SOMETHING YOU’VE LEARNED FROM YOUR STUDENTS? On the gates of our school, Margaret Chadwick wrote that we strive “to discover and develop the special gifts which each individual possesses.” My students have taught me that, indeed, every student does possess special gifts. There are an infinite number of ways to be a teenager, and each young person brings a unique story, along with their own bundle of strengths, hopes and challenges. Part of my job is to help them find that goodness inside so they can unlock their potential.

HOW DO YOU ENSURE YOUR CLASSROOM IS INCLUSIVE AND ALL STUDENTS FEEL THEY BELONG? Creating an inclusive classroom comes down to making small, daily efforts to show students that you appreciate them as individuals — whether it’s complimenting an insight they shared in class, asking about their favorite music or going to their games. When I see one of my students, I try to say their name loudly and smile. When you express genuine appreciation to your students for what makes each one unique, belonging follows naturally.

SUMMER 2026

MercerFest: A Celebration of Jeff “Perhaps that’s the clearest measure of a life well lived — not simply that people remember you, but that they continue creating the kind of community you spent your life building.”

”I will always remember when I realized just how competitive Jeff was. We were both in a Middle School pie-in-the-face contest and against each other. And, well...he got me!” — Luis Morales, Assistant Director of the Middle School

— Craig Polin, Director of the Middle School and Sixth Grade

“Jeff’s smile was always on display and it was genuine. It was love, it was positive, it was happiness.” – Ted Hill, Head of School, Chadwick International

COMPA S S M AG A ZINE

Eight months after Jeff Mercer’s passing, the Chadwick community gathered not simply to remember him, but to continue the community he spent nearly three decades building. They called it MercerFest.

E ight months after Jeff Mercer passed away, something remarkable happened on

On Oct. 6, 2025, friends and colleagues organized a “paddle out” at Torrence Beach. Hundreds showed up at the sunset ceremony to “carry forward the joy he brought into our lives.”

the Chadwick campus. Hundreds of people returned. Alumni stood alongside current students. Former colleagues embraced friends they hadn’t seen in years. Children played lawn games while live music drifted across Vanderlip Lawn and beanbags flew through the air. Stories were shared over dinner, laughter mixed with tears and strangers quickly became old friends. It wasn’t a traditional memorial. It was MercerFest. And somehow, it felt exactly right. For those who knew Jeff, a quiet afternoon of solemn reflection could never have captured the way he lived. Jeff believed in bringing people together — around a dinner table, on a basketball court, in a faculty meeting or watching the sunset at Rat Beach. He made every gathering feel meaningful, not through elaborate planning, but through the connections people made while they were there. Jeff joined Chadwick School in 1996 as a history teacher and, over the next 29 years, became one of the institution’s defining leaders. He served as Director of the Middle School, Interim Head of School, Assistant Head of School and Head of Chadwick International during its founding years in Songdo, South Korea. Along the way, he

helped shape programs and traditions that continue to define the Chadwick experience, including the Middle School Chadwick Immersion Program (ChIP Week), the Upper School Honor Code, Chadwick’s Core Competencies and important work advancing diversity, equity and inclusion. Yet former students remember conversations more than classrooms. Colleagues remember encouragement more than supervision. Parents remember feeling heard, trusting that their children were known. Friends remember evenings around the Mercer family table, where thoughtful conversation was as much a tradition as Jeff’s competitive determination to win every backyard game imaginable. Jeff never sought the spotlight, yet somehow illuminated everyone around him. When Jeff passed away on Oct. 3, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer, the Chadwick community mourned together. Three days later, family, friends, students and colleagues gathered for a paddle out at Rat Beach — a quiet tribute to Jeff’s love of the ocean, the outdoors and the community that had become his extended family. As the months passed, stories continued to emerge, revealing that Jeff’s greatest legacy wasn’t found in a single initiative or accomplishment, but in thousands of individual relationships. That spirit inspired MercerFest. SUMMER 2026

“Jeff made people feel like they mattered.” — Jessica Donovan, Head of School

Designed as the kind of gathering Jeff himself would have loved, the celebration filled campus with live music, backyard games, children’s activities, food, conversation and a “Mercer Museum” of photographs, videos and memories spanning nearly three decades at Chadwick. Members of Jeff’s favorite band, The Mother Hips, performed as the sun set over Vanderlip Lawn while friends and family reflected on a life defined by generosity, curiosity and joy. It felt less like saying goodbye than continuing a conversation. Jeff lived that belief every day. His legacy now continues through the Jeffrey Mercer Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by Chadwick School and the Mercer family in March 2026. The scholarship provides tuition assistance to students demonstrating financial need, with preference given to historically underrepresented students from the Greater Los Angeles area. Each scholarship will support one incoming or rising sixthgrade student through graduation, ensuring future generations experience the same sense of belonging, opportunity and encouragement Jeff worked so hard to create. Having spent months helping shape MercerFest, Craig Polin perhaps summarized it best: “Perhaps that’s the clearest measure of a life well lived — not simply that people remember you, but that they continue creating the kind of community you spent your life building.” Those who wish to honor Jeff’s memory may contribute to the Jeffrey Mercer Memorial Scholarship Fund here:

COMPA S S M AG A ZINE

Chadwick staff, including Chadwick Ocean Institute Director Dijanna Figueroa, led Chadwick and Chadwick International students on a Middle School Global Program to Jeju Island, South Korea, as part of CHIP Week. Both CHIP Week and the Jeju itinerary were inspired by Jeff Mercer.

SUMMER 2026

COMPA S S M AG A ZINE

SUMMER 2026

ATHLETICS HIGHLIGHTS WINTER

FALL CROSS COUNTRY

GIRLS TENNIS

BOYS BASKETBALL

BOYS TENNIS

Prep League Champions CIF-SS Finals Qualifier 15th Place

Prep League Champions

CIF-SS Division 6 Playoffs

CIF-SS Division 6 Playoffs - Quarterfinals

CIF-SS Division 2 Tournament Quarterfinals

First Team All-Prep League Ezekiel Robel ‘26

Girls Varsity Team CIF-SS Prelims Qualifier Boys Varsity Team First Team All-Prep League - Girls

Cami Cochran ‘29 Maegan Tatman ‘27 Sophie Zhang ‘27 FOOTBALL CIF-SS 8-Person Division 1 Playoffs - Semifinals

Tri-Valley League Offensive MVP Ben Wandrick ‘26 First Team All– Tri-Valley League Bryson Edgar ‘26 Asher Goldberg ‘26 Luc Slocum ‘27 Ben Wandrick ‘26 All-CIF First Team Bryson Edgar ‘26 Asher Goldberg ‘26 Luc Slocum ‘27 Ben Wandrick ‘26

First Team All-Prep League Avery Chan-Mott ‘29 (Singles) Kaylin Anastasi ‘27 and Sophie Lin ‘27 (Doubles) Hannah Choi ‘26 and Sophia Kaviani ‘28 (Doubles)

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL CIF-SS Division 5 Runners-Up CIF State Division 3 Qualifiers Second Round First Team All-Prep League Opal Warner ‘27

GIRLS GOLF

All-CIF Division 5 First Team Opal Warner ‘27 Stella Pulos ‘27

Prep League Champions Undefeated Season

WATER POLO

CIF-SS Division 3 Runner-Up First Team All-Prep League Jin Chung ‘27 Janet Zhang ‘28 Kelly Zhang ‘27

Prep League MVP Avery Chan-Mott ‘29 (Singles) Kaylin Anastasi ‘27 and Sophie Lin ‘27 (Doubles)

COMPA S S M AG A ZINE

First Team All-Prep League Julie Sweeney ‘26

GIRLS BASKETBALL CIF-SS Division 8 Playoffs - Semifinals CIF State Tournament Qualifier All CIF Team - Division 8 First Team All-Prep League Sophia Azzam ‘26

Prep League MVP Zach Chen ‘26 (Singles) First Team All-Prep League Noah Abraham ‘29 (Singles) Benji Abraham ‘26 and Michael Zhang ‘27 (Doubles)

BOYS VOLLEYBALL First Team All-Prep League Grayson Gervais ‘27

BOYS SOCCER

SOFTBALL

First Team All-Prep League Yuta Takahashi ‘26

CIF-SS Division 7 Playoffs

GIRLS SOCCER First Team All-Prep League Brooke Pyles ‘26

SWIMMING Prep League MVP Sam Wang ‘28

SPRING SPRING BASEBALL CIF-SS Division 8 Playoffs Quarterfinals All CIF Team - Division 8 First Team All-Prep League Makai Mah ‘28 First Team All-Prep League Jack Nguyen ‘29

BOYS GOLF

All CIF Team - Division 7 First Team All-Prep League Audrey Sakamoto ‘29

✶

CIF-SS Division 5 Champions Prep League Champions First Team All-Prep League Kevin Yang ‘27 Shail Desai ‘29

First Team All-Prep League Sam Wang ‘28 (200 freestyle, 100 freestyle) Max Wang ‘28 (500 freestyle)

SUMMER 2026

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT HIGHLIGHTS

BEYOND OURSELVES Community Engagement at Chadwick begins with a simple belief: Education carries with it a responsibility to contribute. Throughout the year, students discovered that meaningful service is not measured by hours completed but by relationships built, needs understood and lives enriched — including their own. Across every division, students partnered with organizations throughout Los Angeles, connecting classroom learning with meaningful action. Whether mentoring younger students, supporting environmental initiatives, preparing meals or working alongside local nonprofit partners, students learned that lasting change begins by listening, collaborating and responding to the needs of others. These experiences challenged them to see leadership not simply as influence, but as empathy put into practice. Longstanding traditions continue to anchor this work. The annual Hunger Banquet invited students to examine the realities of global food insecurity through an immersive experience that has challenged generations of Chadwick students to think critically about equity, privilege and shared responsibility. Throughout the year, countless service-learning projects reinforced the idea that community engagement is not an event but an essential part of a Chadwick education. Behind many of these experiences is another remarkable community: the parents and volunteers who generously give their time to transport students to service sites across Los Angeles. Their quiet commitment makes these partnerships possible and reflects a defining characteristic of Chadwick itself — a community that believes learning and service are shared responsibilities. Together, these experiences remind students that the measure of an education is not only what they achieve, but how they choose to contribute.

COMPA S S M AG A ZINE

SUMMER 2026

DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION HIGHLIGHTS

LE ARNING THROUGH ONE ANOTHER Some of the most meaningful lessons at Chadwick begin by listening to another person’s story. Throughout the year, students explored new perspectives, celebrated cultural traditions and engaged in thoughtful conversations that strengthened the sense of belonging at the heart of our community. This year marked the expansion of Chadwick’s Social Justice Series from a single day into a monthslong experience featuring keynote speakers, student-led workshops and faculty discussions. Guided by the theme “Justice Is …,” students, faculty and staff explored topics ranging from cultural identity and representation to health equity and history, creating opportunities for dialogue that were as thoughtful as they were inspiring. Just as important, many of those conversations were led by students themselves, reflecting a community where every voice has the opportunity to teach. Celebration remained an equally important part of building community. The annual Multicultural Food Festival once again transformed campus into a vibrant gathering of food, music and traditions from around the world, while Lower Village School students welcomed the Lunar New Year with the beloved sixthgrade Dragon Dance. Classroom celebrations of Diwali and other cultural traditions throughout the year invited students to learn through shared experiences, helping them appreciate both the uniqueness of individual cultures and the connections that unite us. Together, these experiences reflect a defining characteristic of a Chadwick education: a community where curiosity leads to understanding, understanding leads to belonging, and every student is encouraged to help shape a culture in which everyone can thrive.

COMPA S S M AG A ZINE

SUMMER 2026

GLOBAL EDUCATION HIGHLIGHTS

LE ARNING WITHOUT BORDERS Global Education has long been a hallmark of the Chadwick experience. This year, that tradition continued to evolve as students and faculty embraced learning that crossed not only borders but also disciplines, cultures and perspectives. From Middle School ChIP Week to Upper School Spring Break programs, students explored the world through thoughtfully designed experiences that connected classroom learning with authentic cultural exchange. Some hiked through North West England’s Lake District while examining the relationship between landscape and history. Others practiced French in Quebec and French Polynesia, studied biodiversity in Costa Rica, explored Taiwan’s many cultural identities and traced South Korea’s relationship with art, nature and tradition from the Silla Dynasty to modern Seoul. MacFarlane Scholars traveled to South Africa, where conversations about justice, reconciliation and democratic responsibility brought global citizenship into sharp focus. Each journey invited students to ask meaningful questions, engage with local communities and return home with a broader understanding of the world and their place within it. Equally inspiring was the faculty leadership behind these experiences. Dozens of Chadwick educators designed, led and reflected alongside students, creating opportunities for learning that simply cannot be replicated in a classroom. The Global Education team also expanded opportunities for faculty collaboration through exchanges with Chadwick International and the continued development of new programs for the years ahead. Whether students traveled across an ocean or across a language barrier, each experience reinforced a central belief of a Chadwick education: understanding the world begins by engaging with it.

COMPA S S M AG A ZINE

SUMMER 2026

INNOVATION, DESIGN & ENTREPRENEURSHIP HIGHLIGHTS

IDE AS INTO ACTION Innovation begins with curiosity, but it flourishes when students are empowered to build, test, revise and try again. Across Chadwick, Innovation, Design & Entrepreneurship continues to foster that mindset, giving students opportunities to transform ideas into meaningful solutions. This year, those experiences took many forms. Sixth-graders stepped into the role of entrepreneurs during the annual Silk Road Marketplace, developing products, refining business plans and pitching their ideas to a panel of judges in the program’s signature Shark Tank experience. Younger students explored engineering through design challenges that encouraged creativity, collaboration and iterative problem-solving, discovering that every setback is an opportunity to improve. In the Upper School, that same spirit of innovation reached the national stage. Chadwick’s VEX Robotics team earned accolades at the VEX Robotics World Championship after capturing regional and state titles, demonstrating the technical expertise, teamwork and resilience required to compete among the world’s best student engineers. Throughout the year, students continued to design, prototype and create across disciplines, reinforcing the idea that innovation is as much about asking thoughtful questions as it is about finding the right answers. The Chadwick community also affirmed its commitment to this work during the Chadwick Parents Association’s (CPA’s) spring event, where generous philanthropic support advanced the school’s vision for Innovation, challenging STEM initiatives, a revitalized Village Science Lab and expanded opportunities for Innovation, Design and Entrepreneurship. Together, students, faculty and families are building a culture where imagination is paired with purpose — and where today’s classroom ideas become tomorrow’s solutions.

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SUMMER 2026

CHADWICK OCEAN INSTITUTE HIGHLIGHTS

WHERE CURIOSIT Y RUNS DEEP The Chadwick Ocean Institute continues to redefine what science education can be when students move beyond the textbook and into the field. Through hands-on research, emerging technologies and partnerships with leading scientific organizations, students discover that understanding the ocean begins by exploring it. Throughout the year, students transformed the Community Learning and Research Lab at AltaSea into a hub of inquiry and innovation. Younger students stepped into the roles of scientists, engineers and explorers through ocean STEM challenges, while Ocean Ambassadors worked alongside marine researchers, deployed underwater technology and investigated the environmental issues shaping our coastlines. Every experience invited students to ask questions, solve problems and see themselves as contributors to real scientific discovery. This year also highlighted the power of connecting science with creativity and global collaboration. Following an immersive conservation program at the Marine Mammal Care Center, students created Entangled: Marine Life in a Plastic Ocean, an exhibition that transformed recycled materials into a compelling call for ocean stewardship. Ocean Ambassadors also traveled to South Korea, where they collaborated with students from around the world to address pressing marine science challenges. Three Chadwick students were recognized as International Ocean Ambassadors for a Sustainable Future, reflecting the program’s growing impact beyond our campus. Whether investigating local ecosystems or collaborating across continents, Ocean Institute students are learning that science is not simply about understanding the world — it is about accepting the responsibility to improve it.

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SUMMER 2026

OUTDOOR EDUCATION HIGHLIGHTS

BEYOND THE TR AIL For generations of Chadwick students, some of the most enduring lessons have taken place far beyond the classroom. Whether exploring Chadwick Canyon as young students, climbing aboard the ferry to Catalina or returning from the Senior Course after nearly three weeks on the trail, Outdoor Education remains one of the defining threads that connects a Chadwick experience from kindergarten through graduation. The journey begins early. Our Village School students learn to observe, ask questions and develop a sense of wonder in the natural world through local explorations and field studies. As students grow, so do the challenges. Sixth-graders build confidence together at Catalina Island. Seventh-graders paddle through Morro Bay and hike the bluffs of Montaña de Oro. Eighth- and ninthgraders venture into Joshua Tree, where navigation, backcountry cooking and teamwork become as important as reaching the next campsite. Each experience intentionally prepares students for the next, culminating in the Senior Course, a Chadwick tradition that has challenged generations of graduates to discover resilience, leadership and a deeper understanding of themselves. This spring, the familiar tradition continued as the Class of 2026 returned to campus to a joyful welcome from students, faculty, staff and families after completing the 20-day Senior Course. The parade was more than a celebration of miles traveled. It was a celebration of the growth that happens when students step beyond their comfort zones, rely on one another and discover what they are capable of accomplishing together. It is a tradition that continues to remind every Chadwick student that sometimes the most important destination is the person you become along the way.

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SUMMER 2026

PERFORMING ARTS HIGHLIGHTS

STANDING IN THE SPOTLIGHT TOGETHER The Performing Arts program at Chadwick reminds students that the most memorable performances begin long before the curtain rises. Through music, theater and dance, students learn that excellence is built through preparation, collaboration and the courage to share their talents with an audience. This year, those lessons came to life in performances across every division. Upper School audiences were transported by the energy and imagination of “Pippin” and the comedy of “Shakespeare in Hollywood”, while musicians filled campus with memorable Fall and Winter Concerts that showcased the growth of ensembles from beginning performers to accomplished student artists. Dance performances, Village and Middle School productions, and community favorites like the annual Improv Spectacular reflected the confidence students develop when they create together. The arts also continued to connect students across disciplines and grade levels. Programs like Wavelength brought student musicians together to perform original and contemporary works, while younger students discovered the joy of storytelling through performances that emphasized creativity, teamwork and self-expression. Whether rehearsing a difficult passage, refining choreography, bringing the show to life as a member of the crew or stepping onto the stage for the first time, every student learned that meaningful artistic achievement is built through dedication and trust. The applause at the end of a performance is only the final moment of a much longer journey. At Chadwick, the Performing Arts program gives students something even more lasting than a standing ovation — the confidence to collaborate, communicate and share their voices with the world.

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SUMMER 2026

VISUAL ARTS HIGHLIGHTS

THE ART OF SEEING The Visual Arts program at Chadwick invites students to do more than create beautiful work — it challenges them to observe more carefully, think more deeply and express ideas with confidence and purpose. Throughout the year, studios across campus buzzed with creativity as students explored painting, ceramics, photography, sculpture, printmaking and digital media. Their work came together in signature community events including the Upper School Art Open Studio and the annual Spring Art Exhibition, where hallways and galleries were transformed into vibrant showcases of artistic growth across every division. These celebrations offered families, alumni and friends the opportunity to experience not only finished works but also the creative process behind them. This spirit of exploration was equally evident when students gathered around “The Laboratory,” John Collier’s 1895 masterpiece on loan from the Arts of Imagination Foundation. History students connected the painting and its accompanying poem to their study of the Scientific Revolution, while 2D Art and Design students examined Collier’s masterful use of light and shadow as inspiration for their own interpretations. Experiences like these invited students to see art not as an isolated discipline but as a conversation across history, literature and culture. Whether creating a first self-portrait in the Village School or preparing a portfolio for college, Chadwick artists develop more than technical skill. They learn to communicate ideas, embrace multiple perspectives and discover confidence through creative expression. In the Visual Arts program, every sketch, sculpture and photograph becomes another way of understanding both the world around them and the unique voice they bring to it.

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SUMMER 2026

FROM THE ARCHIVES

’41

In 1941, Ansel Adams captured images of students at Abalone Cove for Margaret Chadwick as she promoted the school’s hands-on approach to experiential learning.

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ALUMNI CONNECTIONS EVENTS 54

ALUMNUS OF THE YEAR 64

CL ASS NOTES 70

SUMMER 2026

ALUMNI REUNION WEEKEND

Reunion Weekend Celebrates Milestone Classes ending in “0” and “5” Alumni from milestone reunion classes returned to campus in October for Chadwick’s 2025 Reunion Weekend, reconnecting with classmates, faculty and the entire school community. The weekend included reunion receptions, alumni awards programming and campus events designed to celebrate lifelong connections among graduates. Alumni traveled from across the country to participate in the festivities, which highlighted Chadwick’s tradition of strong multigenerational engagement.

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Classes of 2015 and 2020 Celebrate Young alumni from the Classes of 2015 and 2020 gathered in Hermosa Beach in late December to celebrate milestone reunions with classmates, former faculty and alumni families. Hosted at Rockefeller the reunions welcomed over 150 graduates to reflect on life since graduation and renew friendships formed during their time at Chadwick. The events drew strong attendance and underscored the continued enthusiasm among young alumni to remain connected to the Chadwick community.

Class of 1960 Connects Through Zoom: 65th Reunion Members of the Class of 1960 gathered virtually in January for a special Zoom celebration honoring their 65th reunion. Hosted by Director of Development for Alumni Relations Monica Buck, the online format allowed classmates from across the country to reconnect and participate in the milestone celebration without travel. Alumni received commemorative gifts from the Alumni Office ahead of the event and spent a few hours on the call talking about their time together at Chadwick.

SUMMER 2026

ALUMNI REGIONAL EVENTS

Tokyo, Japan Chadwick hosted its inaugural Tokyo Alumni Dinner in April 2026, bringing together alumni living in Japan for an evening of connection and community in Shibuya. The event, organized with support from alumnus John Fu ’97, represented a significant milestone in the Alumni Office’s growing international outreach efforts. Alumni from across the region gathered to reconnect with classmates and strengthen Chadwick’s presence abroad. Tokyo

New York

Atlanta

Austin

New York, NY

Atlanta, GA

Austin, TX

More than 85 alumni gathered in New York City in November for Chadwick’s annual NYC alumni reception with Head of School Jessica Donovan. Hosted at Bar Hugo, the event brought together graduates living throughout the Northeast for an evening of reunions with alumni representing classes from 1956 to 2025, as well as Chadwick International alumni. The annual gathering has become one of Chadwick’s best-attended regional events and reflects the continued strength of the alumni community on the East Coast.

Chadwick alumni came together in Atlanta in February 2026 for an evening that began at A Cappella Books, where Seth Panitch ’86 was featured in an in-store talk, reading, Q&A and book signing for his new book, “Antique.” Alumni heard Seth share more about his latest work and creative process before continuing the evening nearby. Following the book event, guests gathered for dinner hosted by the Alumni Office at Sotto Sotto. Alumni traveled from across Georgia for the gathering, which brought together class years spanning 1976 to 2025 and offered an opportunity to meet and reunite with fellow Dolphins beyond campus.

25 alumni, former faculty and friends from across Texas gathered in Austin in September for a regional dinner hosted by the Chadwick Alumni Office. The event drew strong participation from graduates and former faculty throughout the state and continued the Alumni Office’s efforts to strengthen regional connections beyond California. Held at The Kitchen in downtown Austin, the gathering brought together alumni from multiple class years for an evening of conversation, networking and reconnection with fellow Dolphins.

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Toronto, Canada Chadwick and Chadwick International alumni gathered in Toronto in February 2026 for an alumni lunch hosted alongside Chadwick International faculty and staff. The event created opportunities for alumni living near Toronto to reconnect while strengthening ties between Chadwick School and Chadwick International communities. Thank you to Chadwick International Director of Professional Growth and Curricular Collaboration Werner Paetzold for his — what else? — collaboration! Toronto

Nashville

Tampa

Seattle

Nashville, TN

Tampa, FL

Seattle, WA

Chadwick alumni from the Classes of 1960 to 2024 gathered on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at Etch Restaurant in downtown Nashville for a special mini reunion. The dinner brought together alumni from across generations to reconnect, share updates and strengthen ties to the Chadwick network. Chadwick alumna Dianne Champlin ’60 and her husband drove from Memphis to join the gathering, adding to the evening’s multigenerational spirit. Attendees also welcomed Cameron Hill, Chadwick’s Athletic Director, who officially joined the school community this summer. Alumni had the opportunity to meet Cameron and hear about his excitement for leading Chadwick’s athletic program.

In March 2026, Chadwick alumni gathered in Tampa, Florida, for an evening at Ponte, bringing together the Classes of 1980 to 2025. The dinner highlighted the connection of the Chadwick community, with alumni sharing stories about Outdoor Ed, career journeys and memories from their time on the hill. The evening was especially meaningful as it marked the first Chadwick alumni event for Devon Dawson ’25, who is currently attending the University of Tampa. Ahead of the dinner, Monica Buck also enjoyed a lunch in Tampa with Fran Kerr ’52, as she reflected on her time as a boarder at the school and her classmates.

Pacific Northwest Alumni gathered in Seattle for a reception at Copperworks Distilling Company, owned by alumnus Micah Nutt ’81. The event welcomed alumni, Chadwick administrators and advancement staff, for an evening of reconnection among Dolphins living in the region. The reception reflected the Alumni Office’s continued expansion of regional programming across the United States. Special thanks to Assistant Head of School for Teaching and Learning Erin Nordlund for serving as our keynote speaker at the event.

SUMMER 2026

ALUMNI REGIONAL NEWS Boston Alumni Host Chadwick Students — College Counseling Tour College-age alumni living in the Boston area gathered with Chadwick Upper School students and College Counseling leadership in March 2026 for a networking dinner focused on the college experience. Hosted at Back Bay Social Club, the dinner gave current students a chance to learn from recent Chadwick graduates about academic, social and professional life in college. The gathering reflected Chadwick’s ongoing investment in mentorship and intergenerational alumni engagement. A total of 13 alumni from Boston-area colleges and universities attended the dinner to talk to more than 30 Upper School students and staff about their respective schools and living in the Boston area.

Alumni College Panel Young Chadwick alumni returned to campus in January for the annual Alumni College Panel, moderated by Monica Buck. Current Upper Schoolers learned from Amalia Goshtigian ’24 (Emerson College), Andy Lai ’25 (New York University), Charlie Landsberg ’25 (University of Richmond), Daniel Rosenzweig ’24 (University of Wisconsin-Madison), Evan Tall ’23 (University of Pennsylvania), Harley Huff ’24 (University of Southern California), Makaela Brown ’25 (Spelman College) and Scarlet Kim ’25 (Wellesley College). Alumni panelists shared their personal approaches to the college application process and advised Upper Schoolers on topics such as managing roommates, daily routines and differences between large and small schools. Thank you to the alumni for sharing the lessons they have learned during their postChadwick journeys!

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Young Alumni Dinner — Boston, MA Chadwick International and Chadwick School young alumni gathered in Boston for a special dinner in January 2026, thanks to Chadwick International staff members who were in town for a conference and hosted the event. Cross-campus collaboration like this continues to strengthen our alumni communities and foster meaningful networking connections among graduates from both campuses. Thank you to Chadwick International Director of Professional Growth and Curricular Collaboration Werner Paetzold and Chadwick International Village School Principal Julian Taylor for hosting the dinner for our alumni.

College Care Packages, Assembled! In February 2026, the Alumni Office gathered former parents in the library for one of Chadwick’s most beloved annual traditions: assembling college care packages for young alumni across the country. Each package included a special treat and a note from the Chadwick Alumni Office, arriving just in time for Valentine’s Day as a reminder that their Chadwick community is thinking of them from campus. This meaningful tradition continues to bring joy to both the college students receiving the packages and the volunteers who help make them possible each year. Please contact Monica Buck in the Alumni Office with any questions or ideas for future college care packages.

SUMMER 2026

ALUMNI LOCAL EVENTS

Alumni Family Fest Welcomes More Than 100 Guests Chadwick’s second annual Alumni Family Fest returned to Vanderlip Lawn in October, welcoming more than 100 attendees for an afternoon designed to connect alumni families with the broader school community. The event featured games, face painting, snacks, bounce houses and music activities for young children, creating a multigenerational campus gathering for alumni and their families. Sponsored by the Alumni Office and Office of Admission, the event continued Chadwick’s efforts to create family-friendly alumni programming that encourages graduates to remain actively connected to campus life. We look forward to seeing everyone again this fall for the Pumpkins and Play event on Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026 at 10 a.m.

Veterans Day Assembly Honors Alumni Service Member Chadwick faculty, staff, alumni and family members who have served in the United States military were invited as special guests for our annual Veterans Day assembly. The Village color guard opened the ceremony with a customary flag presentation, followed by remarks from our veterans, a performance by the Upper School orchestra, and musical and vocal performances by the Village and Upper School choral groups. After the assembly, our veteran guests, including Capt. John Ryan ’49, spent some time talking with Village students as they wrote and decorated letters of gratitude that will be distributed to veterans across the U.S. through Operation Gratitude.

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Alumni Athletic Day 2025 Chadwick welcomed more than 100 alumni, alumni families, current families, faculty, staff and friends back to campus in December 2025 for the annual Alumni Athletic Day, a longstanding tradition celebrating community and school spirit. Participants spent the morning competing in a variety of sports, including soccer, volleyball, basketball, cross country, flag football and water polo, before gathering for lunch on campus. The event, hosted in partnership with Chadwick’s Athletic Department, provided alumni with an opportunity to reconnect with former teammates, coaches and classmates during the holiday season. A complimentary lunch from Nona’s Pizza Food Truck concluded the morning festivities as generations of Dolphins gathered together on campus.

Connecting Through Wellness: The Alumni Mileage Challenge and barre3 Event This spring, the Alumni Relations Office introduced a new dimension to alumni engagement through wellness-focused programming, highlighted by two events. First, in the inaugural Alumni Mileage Challenge, alumni logged miles, encouraged one another and sparked spirited class competition through movement and connection throughout a monthlong challenge. Participation spanned decades of Chadwick graduates and reflected a growing interest in engagement opportunities that are active, accessible and community-oriented. Class competition emerged naturally throughout the challenge, with stage winners including the Class of 2021, Class of 2025, Class of 1996 and Class of 1977. Participants collectively logged thousands of miles, led by Craig Williams ’77, with more than 331 miles completed during the month. Next, in April 2026, alumni gathered in Redondo Beach for a sold-out barre3 Wellness Event that brought together graduates spanning the decades Designed to create an engaging and welcoming environment for alumni at every stage of life, the event reflected the continued evolution of Chadwick’s alumni engagement efforts toward experiences that feel interactive, energizing and community-centered. The challenge and wellness events served as a meaningful reminder that alumni engagement continues to evolve in exciting ways, creating opportunities for connection through shared experiences, health-related event planning and friendly competition. The Alumni Mileage Challenge will take place again from March 1-31, 2027. Mark your calendars!

SUMMER 2026

ALUMNI LOCAL EVENTS Strengthening the Chadwick Network Chadwick is expanding opportunities for students, alumni, parents and community members to connect through the Chadwick Network, an initiative designed to strengthen relationships across the broader Chadwick community while supporting student learning and career exploration. The network aims to create meaningful pathways for mentorship, professional engagement and experiential learning, helping students connect classroom experiences with real-world opportunities. Director of Innovation, Design & Entrepreneurship Dan Nord and Director of Development for Alumni Relations Monica Buck are partnering to grow the network and build a stronger culture of engagement among Chadwick constituents. Through mentorship, guest speaking, judging student competitions, hosting interns and supporting classroom programming, participants can share their

expertise while creating valuable connections with students and fellow community members. As the initiative evolves, the Chadwick Network will also serve as a platform for alumni and other constituents to connect with one another professionally, exchange ideas and expand their personal and professional networks. By fostering relationships across generations and industries, the network reflects Chadwick’s commitment to lifelong engagement and the enduring strength of its community. Those interested in learning more about the Chadwick Network or participating in future opportunities may contact Monica Buck at alumni@chadwickschool.org.

Monica Buck and Dan Nord are partnering to strengthen the Chadwick Network.

Speaker Series Highlights Entertainment Industry Careers The Chadwick Professionals Speaker Series welcomed Alumni Board member Stevee Jo Eads ’09 for a professional development event focused on careers in entertainment and talent representation. Eads shared insights from her experience working in the entertainment industry, including her work with Creative Artists Agency and The Agency London Ltd., while discussing industry trends and career pathways with members of the Chadwick community. With more than 60 alumni, parents and faculty in attendance, everyone walked away from the event having made contacts and joined “troika groups” to continue their networking following the event. If you are interested in speaking at future events, please contact Monica Buck in the Alumni Office at alumni@chadwickschool.org.

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13th Annual Chadwick Professionals Holiday Mixer Parents, alumni, faculty, staff and friends gathered December 2025 at Tin Roof Bistro in Manhattan Beach for the annual Chadwick Professionals Holiday Mixer, one of the Alumni Office’s most anticipated networking events of the year. The evening brought together members of the extended Chadwick community from a wide range of industries and graduating classes for professional networking and holiday celebration. The event once again sold out, continuing its reputation as a signature annual gathering that strengthens personal and professional connections across the Chadwick network.

Day of Giving 2026 Celebrated 90 Years of Dolphins with Record Participation Chadwick’s 2026 Day of Giving achieved record-breaking success, raising more than $286,000 in support of students, teachers and school programs. The campaign surpassed its original target, registering 691 donors against a 500-donor goal. The event featured highenergy participation including current parents, grandparents, parents of alumni, faculty, staff, trustees, and friends. Alumni participation spanned generations, from the Classes of 1949 to 2025. Special congratulations go out to the Class of 2022, who secured the Young Alumni Challenge title for the fourth consecutive year. Their victory continues a proud, unbroken tradition of young alumni philanthropy and engagement. We are curious to see which class of young alumni will challenge them next year! This annual initiative highlights the wonderful generosity of the Chadwick community, with donors uniting to support the Chadwick experience for current and future students. Thank you to everyone who participated and made this milestone year such a triumph! The 2026-27 Day of Giving will be Tuesday, April 13, 2027. Scan the QR code to view the 2026 Day of Giving kickoff video, featuring a look back at Chadwick’s journey from our earliest years to the present day.

SUMMER 2026

2025 DISTINGUISHED ALUMNUS OF THE YEAR

Paul Westhead ’85

“CHADWICK TAUGHT ME TO CREATE ENVIRONMENTS WHERE PEOPLE FEEL SUPPORTED AND VALUED.”

Paul Westhead ’85 credits Chadwick School with shaping the values and leadership principles that have guided his career as a businessman, executive and community advocate. “Chadwick taught me how to treat people and how I wanted to be in my community,” he said. Born in Philadelphia, Westhead moved to Palos Verdes at age 12 and enrolled at Chadwick as an eighth grader. He quickly formed strong connections with classmates and teachers and said he immediately felt at home on campus: “I loved it, absolutely loved it,” he said. Although his family relocated to Chicago during his sophomore year, Westhead returned to Chadwick for his junior year because he felt a strong connection to the school community. That connection ultimately shaped both his personal and professional life. While at Chadwick, Westhead met his future wife, Kia Rode ’87. The couple later married on Vanderlip Lawn in 1992. “It was such a welcoming, loving place,” he said. “They wanted to know you for who you were. You were encouraged to try, to fail, to volunteer and to participate.” Westhead said several faculty members played an influential role in his development, including U.S. history teacher Mark Wiedenmann and English teacher Jerry Martin. When Westhead struggled with reading comprehension, Wiedenmann worked with him on practical study strategies, including how to highlight and annotate passages. Martin helped Westhead fund his Outdoor Education senior trip by hiring him to clean out his garage. Westhead also admired school leaders such as Don Leavenworth and Robert Sartorius, whose integrity and service-oriented leadership left a lasting impression. “You saw them and thought, ‘I want to be like that,’” he said. After graduating from Chadwick, Westhead earned a bachelor’s degree in history from Fordham University before beginning his career on the trading floor of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange. The fast-paced environment taught him how to process information quickly, adapt under pressure and identify opportunities for impact. 64

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Realizing he was more interested in business leadership than trading itself, Westhead pursued a Master of Business Administration from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management while working full time. During that period, he and Kia often studied together while she completed her master’s degree in education. “We had a lot of romantic weekends in the library,” he said with a laugh.Westhead went on to hold leadership positions at Credit Agricole, PIMCO and Oaktree Capital Management before becoming managing director and CEO of Rimrock Capital Management. “Chadwick taught me to create environments where people feel supported and valued,” he said. “That’s been essential to leading teams and helping clients achieve their goals.” He points to projects such as helping generate $50 million for the University of Washington to support financial aid and professorships as examples of the positive impact financial management can have. “As much as Wall Street gets a bad rap, we’re doing some good,” he said. Community service has remained central to Westhead’s life, influenced both by his family and by Chadwick’s emphasis on civic responsibility. His mother was an early advocate for the Equal Rights Amendment and exposed her children to activism and public service from a young age.

Last year's Alumni Awards Brunch awardees, along with Head of School Jessica Donovan.

At Chadwick, service-learning experiences, including a trip to help build an orphanage in Tijuana, Mexico, broadened his perspective and reinforced the importance of giving back. That commitment later inspired projects such as helping rebuild a school in Los Angeles’ Pico Union neighborhood after an arson fire. Today, Westhead and his wife remain deeply involved in nonprofit organizations in Orange County. They support Breakthrough San Juan Capistrano, which provides tuition-free college access programming for first-generation and low-income students, and Unidos South OC, which serves immigrant families through after-school programs, advocacy and community support services. Westhead’s relationship with Chadwick continued long after graduation. In 2006, he joined the school’s Board of Trustees and worked closely with school leaders, including former Head of School Ted Hill. Among the initiatives he helped champion was the launch of Chadwick International in Songdo, South Korea, an effort he said reflected founder Margaret Chadwick’s vision of global education. Westhead and his wife also established the Chadwick Alumni Endowment Fund to provide ongoing support for the school’s highest priorities. “If there’s anything Chadwick teaches us, it’s to give back,” he said. “We wanted to help the school in perpetuity and support the next generation of leaders and changemakers.” Reflecting on his life and career, Westhead said one principle has remained constant: the importance of surrounding yourself with people you trust and respect.“That’s true whether you’re in the classroom, on a trading floor or leading a company,” he said. “It’s how you build something that lasts.” Westhead was selected as Chadwick’s 2025 Distinguished Alumnus in recognition of his leadership, professional accomplishments and enduring commitment to service — qualities he says were first nurtured during his years at Chadwick.

Westhead met his future wife, Kia Rode ’87, at Chadwick. The couple later married on Vanderlip Lawn in 1992, adding that “it was such a welcoming, loving place.”

The Westheads established the Chadwick Alumni Endowment Fund to provide ongoing support for the school’s highest priorities.

SUMMER 2026

2025 CHADWICK ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME

Jaye

“IT’S ABOUT THE FAMILY WHO DROVE ME TO WORKOUTS

BUCHBINDER ____

TEAMMATES WHO MADE ME LOVE THE SPORT.”

AT DAWN, THE COACHES WHO BELIEVED IN ME, AND THE

Jaye Buchbinder ’11 was not always a standout athlete. Growing up in Long Beach, she tried a variety of sports including soccer, swimming and water polo but said she did not immediately excel. “I was shy. I didn’t like contact sports,” Buchbinder said. “I was always trying to keep up with my brother, Kurt ’10, who was crushing it early in swimming and water polo. I didn’t have the same ability when I was young.” Everything changed when her mother — a former Olympic Trials marathoner and member of the Central Park Track Club Hall of Fame — encouraged her to try cross-country during her freshman year at Chadwick. Her first practice was difficult. After running a mile and getting sick, Buchbinder still wanted to return. “It was brutal. But I loved the team,” she said. The camaraderie of the program, combined with the mentorship of Coach George Ramos, sparked a passion for running. Ramos emphasized individualized training, consistency, injury prevention and mental preparation. Buchbinder faced an early setback during varsity tryouts when nerves affected her performance and landed her on the junior varsity team. Without that pressure, however, she found her confidence in the next race, winning comfortably and earning her spot back on varsity. That breakthrough led to a standout sophomore season. Buchbinder helped lead Chadwick’s crosscountry team to a state title, broke the five-minute mile and established herself as one of the school’s top distance runners. She later trained regularly with the boys team under Coach Tyson Sacco, an experience that

Buchbinder was a three-time league MVP in cross-country and track and field.

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pushed her to another competitive level. By graduation, Buchbinder was a three-time league MVP in crosscountry and track and field, a CIF-Southern Section champion in the 1,600 meters in 2010 and the 3,200 meters in 2011, and a member of three CIF-SS championship teams. She also held eight school records, including marks of 4:52.69 in the 1,600 and 10:37.46 in the 3,200. Family support played a major role in her success. Buchbinder credits her mother for early morning training sessions, long commutes to Chadwick and unwavering encouragement. “My mom was just the driving force for all of it,” she said. Her brother Kurt also inspired her development. “She really found something she could own and be herself in,” he said. “I was so proud when she figured that out.” Among her accomplishments, breaking the fiveminute barrier in the mile remains especially meaningful. After steadily lowering her time over several years, she finally ran a 4:57 at the Masters Meet against elite Division I competition. “It was like, OK, I am as good as the people I’ve wanted to be as good as,” she said. That performance helped open the door to Stanford University, where Buchbinder competed in cross-country, indoor track and outdoor track. Injuries and a redshirt freshman season presented challenges, but the experience reinforced the importance of consistency, teamwork and enjoying the sport beyond winning. Her leadership style evolved as well — from intensely detail-oriented high school captain to a college teammate focused on building culture and lifting others. “I became a really good cheerleader,” she said. “It was about lifting the whole team, not just setting the pace.” Today, Buchbinder works in business development at her family’s furniture company, Emeco, staying active through running, surfing and biking with her husband and dog. As she and her brother prepared for induction into the Chadwick Athletic Hall of Fame, she saw the recognition as about far more than records and titles. “It’s about the family who drove me to workouts at dawn, the coaches who believed in me, the teammates who made me love the sport and the brother who inspired me to find something that was wholly my own,” she said.

CHADWICK ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME 2025

Kurt BUCHBINDER ____ “TO GO TO HIS WATER POLO GAMES AND SEE HIM BE A SUPERSTAR, IT WAS JUST FUEL FOR ME.” – Jaye Buchbinder ’11

Kurt Buchbinder ’10 was destined for success in the pool from an early age. As a child, one of his swim coaches scribbled a message inside his Speedo: “Future Olympic champion.” While Buchbinder did not ultimately compete in the Olympics, the prediction reflected the talent, determination and leadership that would define his athletic career at Chadwick and beyond. His introduction to water polo was not immediate enthusiasm. “My mom had to push me into practice a few times,” he said with a laugh. The commitment required significant sacrifices from his family. Living in Long Beach, the Buchbinders made many early morning drives to practices and competitions before Kurt and his sister, Jaye ’11, were old enough to drive themselves. “My mom was up before dawn making breakfast and hauling my sister and me to practices and games,” he said. “She made it possible.” Once he settled into the sport, Buchbinder quickly emerged as one of Chadwick’s standout athletes. In water polo, he recorded a singleseason boys team record with 138 goals and 78 steals. In swimming, he posted a school-record time of 46.63 seconds in the 100-yard freestyle. His accomplishments earned widespread recognition. Buchbinder was a three-time All-CIF first-team selection, a three-time Daily Breeze AllArea first-team honoree in water polo and a three-time All-Prep League first-team selection. As a senior, he was named co-MVP of the Prep League in both water polo and swimming. One of the defining moments of his high school career came during a five-overtime game against Peninsula High School. With the match still deadlocked, Buchbinder scored the game-winning goal. “Everyone just jumped on me,” he recalled. “It’s one of those moments you never forget.” His sister Jaye saw firsthand the respect he earned from teammates and peers. “To go to his water polo games and see him be a superstar, it was just fuel for me,” she said. “He was an amazing leader from a young age.” That leadership developed over time, shaped in part by longtime Chadwick educator John Fiske. After Buchbinder lost several student council elections in middle school, Fiske encouraged him to keep putting himself forward. “Keep learning,” Fiske told him. “You have a lot of friends. You’re a leader. You should keep trying.” The advice stayed with him. Buchbinder continued pursuing leadership opportunities and was eventually elected ASB president his senior year. He also served as a peer mentor, played saxophone in the jazz band and orchestra, and

participated in a wide range of campus activities. “I genuinely really liked doing a lot of things,” he said. “Chadwick was full of people who helped me.” At Princeton University, Buchbinder focused primarily on water polo and immediately made an impact, earning Southern Rookie of the Year honors in 2010. During his collegiate career, he appeared in 89 games, recording 55 goals, 53 assists and 51 steals while balancing Division I athletics and Princeton’s rigorous academics. “It was a lot,” he said, “but that’s where the discipline from Chadwick really came into play.” After graduating from Princeton, Buchbinder earned his MBA from Dartmouth’s Tuck School of Business, where he met his wife — a relationship that began after they signed up together for a 50-kilometer race. “That running gene and those kinds of crazy athletic challenges have definitely carried over,” he said with a laugh. For Buchbinder, being inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame alongside his sister carries special meaning. While their mother will not be able to attend the ceremony, her influence will be present in the moment — from the early morning drives to the unwavering encouragement that shaped both their journeys. “It’s an honor,” he said. “I feel very humbled.”

SUMMER 2026

2025 CHADWICK ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME

Rebecca CANNOM ____ “I THINK BACK ON ALL THE THINGS I LEARNED FROM ATHLETICS AT CHADWICK, AND IT REALLY PARALLELS WHAT I DO TODAY.”

Rebecca Cannom, MD ’95 credits Chadwick School with teaching her the values that have shaped both her athletic and professional success: resilience, teamwork and perseverance. “Chadwick taught me the importance of community, your peers and working together while never giving up,” she said. “I’ve carried that with me everywhere.” A lifelong member of the Chadwick community, Cannom spent more than a decade on campus and emerged as a standout student-athlete in both soccer and tennis. She earned four varsity letters in each sport and served as captain of both teams under longtime coach Carolyn Leach. As a freshman, Cannom was part of Chadwick’s 1992 CIF championship tennis team, competing alongside future world No. 1 player Lindsay Davenport. Her success on the court drew the attention of several top Division I college programs. “If you had told me back then that I’d end up playing No. 1 singles and doubles and captaining an Ivy League team, I would’ve thought you were crazy,” she said with a laugh. At Cornell University, Cannom steadily rose through the lineup, advancing from No. 4 singles and No. 2 doubles as a freshman to No. 1 singles and doubles by her junior and senior seasons. Under her leadership, Cornell earned a national ranking, won the East Coast Conference championship and qualified for the NCAA Women’s Tennis Championship. Her senior season brought one of the greatest challenges of her athletic career when she tore her anterior cruciate ligament. “It was definitely the worst thing I’d ever been through at the time,” she said. Unable to continue in singles, Cannom chose to keep playing doubles despite the risks and embraced a player-coach role, mentoring teammates from the sidelines. Her perseverance earned national recognition — she received the Arthur Ashe Leadership and Sportsmanship Award, voted on by collegiate tennis coaches across

COMPA S S M AG A ZINE

the country, and accepted it from tennis legend Stan Smith at the U.S. Open. “I’ll always remember how my friends and teammates rallied around me,” she said. “I was still able to be part of the team and contribute in a different way.” The discipline required to balance Division I athletics and academics prepared her well for a career in medicine. “Playing and traveling for collegiate tennis while being pre-med was honestly harder than medical school,” she said. “When I got to Georgetown and could just focus on studying medicine, it felt so much more manageable.” Cannom said Chadwick provided the foundation for managing demanding schedules and high expectations — lessons that carried directly into her medical training and practice. Today, she is a colorectal and general surgeon at Kaiser Permanente and serves on the faculty at the University of Southern California, where she teaches future surgeons. She has been named Physician of the Year in recent years. “A lot of times, I think back on all the things I learned from athletics, and it really parallels what I do today,” she said. Outside the operating room, Cannom balances her career with family life as a wife and mother of two. The friendships she formed at Chadwick have also remained a meaningful part of her life. She recalled reconnecting with classmate Tara Goldberg Schimmel ’95 during medical school in Washington, D.C., after years apart. “We had played cello together at Chadwick for eight years, and all of a sudden, we became best friends again,” she said. As she is inducted into Chadwick’s Athletic Hall of Fame, Cannom sees the recognition as a reflection of the lasting impact of the school’s community and the values that continue to shape her life and career.

CHADWICK ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME 2025

Rob FRONAUER ____ On any given afternoon between 1995 and 2019, Coach Rob Fronauer could be found with Chadwick’s tennis teams, encouraging and guiding players to be their best. “My philosophy was to try to make them better tennis players or help them fall in love with the game,” he said. With more than 24 seasons as varsity boys tennis head coach and more than a decade leading the varsity girls tennis team, that philosophy produced five CIF titles and 19 Prep League championships — a legacy measured as much in relationships as victories. Players knew him for his sharp strategic mind, nononsense practices and belief that chemistry, not just talent, wins championships. A graduate of Cal State Dominguez Hills with a degree in business, Fronauer built his reputation at Peninsula Racquet Club, where he spent 15 years coaching juniors and adults. By the time Chadwick approached him in 1995, his skill for developing players was well known. Coaching a school team, however, was a new challenge. Used to the one-on-one world of private lessons, Fronauer now faced athletes who were already elite club competitors. His challenge was to prove that his leadership could elevate their game even further. “I had to earn their trust,” he recalled. “These were good players. My job was to make them better and make them a team.” From the start, he emphasized an unconventional idea in a sport often defined by singles glory: team chemistry. “The better the chemistry, the better we play,” he told his players. It was more than a catchphrase — it became the foundation of his program. Practices built camaraderie alongside skill, and lineups were crafted for doubles success as much as individual wins. That philosophy led the varsity boys tennis team to 11 league championships and CIF titles in 2000, 2005 and 2006. In 2005, Mark Thorrington clinched the CIF Division III title with the final point and famously leapt onto the fence in celebration. The following year, coming off that championship and losing a top player midseason, the team came together, completed a perfect 18-0 season and won another CIF title with a 10-8 victory over Lakewood. “That team was rock solid,” Fronauer said. “They helped each other. That’s what stood out.” The varsity girls program flourished under his leadership as well. Taking over for retired head coach Carolyn Leach, Fronauer

“I HAD TO EARN THEIR TRUST. THESE WERE GOOD PLAYERS. MY JOB WAS TO MAKE THEM BETTER AND MAKE THEM A TEAM.”

earned eight league championships and two CIF Division III titles in 2006 and 2007. Perhaps his favorite success stories were players who started as beginners. “We had one boy, Michael Snyder, a total beginner when he first came out,” he said. “He ended up being MVP in doubles with his partner the year we won CIF.” His influence stretched far beyond the court. At a former player’s wedding, the best man paused his speech to ask, “Where’s Coach Rob?” — a moment that crystallized for Fronauer the lasting mark a coach can make. “You have a unique opportunity to be a positive influence in their lives,” he said. The Fronauer family’s ties to Chadwick run deep. His wife, Ellie, served as the school nurse for more than 25 years. Many of his former players still call, text or meet him for lunch each year — relationships he considers as meaningful as any trophy. In 2019, Fronauer stepped away from Chadwick as his role at Rolling Hills Golf Club grew and the demands of both jobs became difficult to manage. Since then, he has continued teaching tennis, playing pickleball and enjoying time with family and friends. As he is inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame, Chadwick honors not just a decorated coach, but a mentor whose influence will echo on its courts for years to come.

SUMMER 2026

’65

CLASS NOTES ’50s

1958 JACKIE JOHNSON KEHLE Jackie Johnson Kehle has lived at Regents Point, a senior living community in Irvine, with her husband of 63 years, Jerry Kehle, since 2017. They love it there and have made many wonderful friends. They have two daughters, nine grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, with another great-granddaughter welcomed in early June.

’62 ’60

Rick Learned with John Muchmore, Maggie Muchmore, Rick Learned in Santa Fe, NM.

1958 SUSAN LOEW GREENBERG Susan Loew Greenberg shared that all is well with her blended family. She and Alan have four children, nine grandchildren and one greatgranddaughter. They still travel, although not as much as before. Susan has given up tennis and skiing but still enjoys walking and swimming. She shared that she has lost touch with almost all of her remaining classmates and would love to hear from any members of the Class of 1958. 1959 JOHN SWEDE John Swede currently lives in Rome, Georgia, where he has lived since 2005, when he retired from his profession as a photographer. He owned and operated his studio beginning in 1973, first in Westwood Village and later in Santa Monica. Since retiring, he enjoyed playing golf at his home course, Coosa Country Club, until losing his left leg in 2020. He shared that life in Georgia is comfortable, although he misses the extensive travel he once enjoyed. John would love to hear from his old classmates, the Centaurs of ’59.

’60s L to R, Andy Nielsen, Rick Learned, Judy Jenkins, Larry Amberg, in San Marcos, Tx.

1960 CHRISTIANNE ULRICH On March 5, Christianne Ulrich and her husband, Barry, celebrated their 60th anniversary. They have three sons, ages 57, 53 and 47; and four grandsons, ages 21, 19, 13 and 10. Christianne remains in contact with her Chadwick roommate, Heidi Monaco Huchberger Lipman. 1962 RICK LEARNED Rick Learned and his wife, Siva Zhang, took a road trip through the Southwest in late May. Along the way, they stopped in Santa Fe to visit John Muchmore and his wife, Maggie. Later, in San Marcos, Texas, they visited Larry Amberg and Andy Nielsen and their spouses. Judy Jenkins and her husband, Dave, joined the group from their home in Las Vegas. The friends have all known one another since grammar school.

COMPA S S M AG A ZINE

’64 1964 JOHN PETERSON John Peterson shared that he still loves living in Montana. He has started to scale back his work but still enjoys it. He underwent open-heart surgery to repair, not replace, his mitral valve and now has a pacemaker. John said he is feeling good and continues walking the ranch. His submitted photo was taken in his backyard with his infrared camera.

1962 ILONKA ALEXANDER Ilonka Alexander is celebrating the release of her fourth book, “The Lost Legacy of Franz Alexander,” published in late 2025 by Karnac in the United Kingdom. She will travel to Chicago in early June to lead a symposium on Franz Alexander’s contributions, which include the beginnings of psychosomatic medicine and forensic psychiatry. Her grandfather founded the Institute for Psychoanalysis in September 1932 and served as its director for 25 years. 1965 RUSSELL COPELAN, MD Russell Copelan, MD, was recently elevated to full research professor in Florida State University’s Department of Psychology, while continuing his responsibilities in the College of Medicine. He is working closely with Dr. Thomas Joiner, one of the world’s leading suicidologists, to better understand a rare phenomenon known as youth anaphylactic suicide. As co-principal investigators, their collaboration builds on Russell’s years of study into a condition that has not previously been documented in adolescents and young adults. The work is especially urgent because episodes can emerge within minutes, often without prior warning, during moments of intense psychological or medicationrelated stress. By examining abrupt shifts in behavior and cognition alongside timed neurologic biomarkers and advanced statistical analysis, they hope to better understand these rapid, high-risk events and how clinicians might recognize them. Chadwick faculty and students who recall Mr. Holland, the enigmatic English teacher with a fascination for Emily Dickinson, may find this disturbing condition eerily foreshadowed in Dickinson’s poem “I Felt a Funeral, in My Brain,” in which she writes, “And then a Plank in Reason, broke.” Russell welcomes conversation, collaboration and questions from colleagues, students and community members interested in this emerging area of research. 1966 ROBERT GIVEN Robert Given established the CPA firm Given & Company in Santa Monica in 1973. He retired in 2016, and the firm is now owned by Geoff Given. Bob and his wife, Suzi, have known each other for 76 years and have been married for 58 years. They have two sons, Andrew of Eugene and Geoff of Santa Monica, as well as four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. They have lived in Ashland for 35 years and remain involved in the community. Bob’s passion is environmental education, beginning with K-6 students and creating opportunities for youth to explore beyond their home environment.

’74 ’70

’70s

1970 FRED BALS After a 50-year career in communications, Fred Bals retired earlier this year to focus on finishing a long-planned book and enjoying retired life with his wife, Peggy, and their English cocker spaniel, Lily Rose. 1974 ROBIN RIVERA In May and June 2025, Robin Rivera walked the legendary Camino de Santiago along the coastal route from Porto, Portugal, to Santiago in Galicia, Spain. Alongside three friends, Robin walked nearly 180 miles over 13 days. Robin shared that the best part of the experience was the community of pilgrims from around the world moving together each day toward a single goal. Robin also noted there is no better way to experience a place than by walking through its villages and landscapes. Robin and friends are already planning another route from France in 2027. SUMMER 2026

’84

’80s

1980 FRANZ AMADOR Franz Amador has been retired for two years after a career as a software developer and shared that there is still no shortage of things to do. Franz has spent significant time traveling, especially through outdoor adventure and volunteer trail crew opportunities, and recently returned from rafting the Grand Canyon. 1984 CERENE HOWARD Cerene Howard has retired from a long career practicing law. This year, Cerene and her husband are celebrating 30 years of marriage. They traveled to South Africa, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia and Zambia, and Cerene also traveled solo to Japan this year. Their son is a graduate of the SDSU Fowler College of Business and works in San Diego, while their daughter is a recent UCLA graduate. Cerene shared that they are enjoying empty nest life with their French bulldog. She also enjoyed reconnecting with classmates during their 40th reunion and looks forward to the next reunion.

’85 1985 WENDY VINCENT Chadwick alumni connections span the globe. Wendy Vincent ’85 and Dan Arms trong ’80 recently reconnected in Accra, Ghana, while Wendy was visiting as part of a West Africa cruise.

’93

1988 HANNELORE “HANNI” DANIEL After retiring from Amazon, Hannelore “Hanni” Daniel has been enjoying a new chapter centered around travel and a slower pace of life. She recently relocated to Scottsdale, Arizona, which has been a welcome change from Seattle and now serves as home base for new adventures. Hanni sends sunny wishes to the Class of 1988 and hopes life is treating everyone well wherever it has taken them.

’90s

1991 REBEKAH ROTA Rebekah Rota is finishing her third season as Intendantin, or artistic director, of Oper Wuppertal. Under her leadership, the organization has demonstrated consistent artistic success through nominations for international awards, recordings and CD releases of productions and positive critical reviews. The company has also introduced significant innovation in sustainable practices, including a nomination for the International Opera Award for Sustainability, multiple grants for sustainable innovation in set design and the implementation of a new concept for reusable sets. Rebekah also shared that the organization has achieved gender parity in leadership teams and a season featuring 30 percent compositions by female composers. Oper Wuppertal recently announced its 2026-27 season, which Rebekah says is shaping up to be the organization’s best yet. 1993 DYLAN BROWN Dylan and fellow alumni have kept a special Chadwick tradition alive by gathering frequently on Sundays for a round of golf. On May 31, Charlton Jackson ’88, Eric Dyson ’90, Dennis Brown Jr. ’90, Dylan Brown ’93 and Dr. Joseph Giaconi ’93 played a round together, shared Chadwick memories and celebrated friendships that have continued long after graduation. 1994 SEAN KENNEDY Sean Kennedy recently completed the presidential cycle for the Southern Association for College Admission Counseling and his three-year term on the Affiliate Presidents Council for the National Association for College Admission Counseling.

COMPA S S M AG A ZINE

’95

’96

Derrick K. Lee

1995 MICHAELA KLINK CAUGHLIN In January 2025, Michaela Klink Caughlin decided to return to school to earn her master’s degree in education so she could teach elementary school music. She says she is loving it and believes any job that requires carrying around a ukulele and recorder is a great one. When she is not teaching, Michaela is shuttling her two teenagers around and trying to travel with them as much as possible while they are still at home. 1995 ANIKÓ GRÉGER Anikó Gréger lives in New Orleans with her husband and two children. She is an integrative pediatrician and postpartum consultant who is both a sought-after speaker and host of the podcast “Nourished with Dr. Anikó.” She is also writing a book about raising girls in today’s world through the lens of integrative pediatrics. Anikó and her family enjoy traveling, live music, great food, political engagement and adventures together. She is also the founder of the Mardi Gras dance troupe, the NOLA Cherry Bombs. Her podcast is available at https://www.draniko. com/podcast, and more information about the Cherry Bombs can be found at https://www.cherrybombsnola.com/. 1995 DERRICK K. LEE Derrick K. Lee, a member of Chadwick’s Class of 1995, is a Los Angeles-based entertainment attorney with nearly 25 years of experience in the music industry, working behind the scenes on deals that have helped shape well-known records. His clients include Snoop Dogg and Grammy Award-winning producer Fredwreck, along with a range of artists and creatives navigating today’s evolving music landscape. Outside the legal world, Lee channels that industry access into storytelling as co-owner and editor in chief of Blurred Culture’s music section, where he writes, curates and photographs original coverage from the front lines of live music. Whether in the pit at a local venue, on the streets of Austin during SXSW or at Willie Nelson’s Ranch during Luck Reunion, his work captures both emerging and established artists. Fellow Chadwick alumni Max Sloves and Aileen Level also contribute to the Blurred Culture platform. Lee covers dozens of major concerts each year, building a visual and written archive of music culture as it unfolds. His photography is featured on Instagram at @DKLPHOTOS. When he is not drafting deals or covering live shows, Lee is a season ticket holder for the Los Angeles Clippers and a member of The Swell.

1996 LECONTE DILL Dr. LeConte Dill published her debut book of poetry, “Soul Survivors,” in February. LeConte shared fond memories of being published in “Soundings” and writing poetry and fiction in Dr. Terry Andrews’ and Mrs. Karen Stephens’ English classes at Chadwick.

’95

Anikó Gréger with her husband

SUMMER 2026

’05

Riki Swindler

’10

Nicole Chillingworth

’08 2005 GEETA FLECK Geeta Fleck welcomed a new baby, Ingrid Fleck, born April 21, 2026, joining big sister Leela, 13.

1997 NICOLE GERVAIS Nicole Gervais and her husband, Chris, recently became empty nesters and moved back to Southern California from their rural life outside St. Louis. Nicole shared that they are loving the weather and spending time with her mother. She also noted how meaningful it has been reconnecting with fellow Wick alumni and being back on campus coaching. Nicole added that Chadwick remains a beautiful school.

’00s

Congratulations! CHRISTEN PRESS ‘07 Congratulations to Christen Press ‘07 as she concluded a truly remarkable professional soccer career this year! On Sunday, Oct. 19, 2025, Christen played the final home match of her career. Among her many accomplishments are two CIF-SS titles with Chadwick, two World Cup titles with the United States National Team and 198 professional goals. To celebrate her final home match, members of the Chadwick community gathered in the stands to cheer her on in her last home match with Angel City Football Club (ACFC) at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles. We are so proud of you, Christen!

COMPA S S M AG A ZINE

2005 RIKI SWINDLER Since graduating from Chadwick in 2005, Riki Swindler attended Williams College, where she continued playing volleyball and built the foundation that would shape her future. She began her career at ESPN in New York City, immersing herself in consumer marketing before following her passion for food at Sweetgreen and Mendocino Farms. Riki recently launched her own consulting firm, HiKu, where she supports high-growth consumer brands with marketing strategy and leadership. Today, she lives in Palos Verdes with her husband and three children and feels especially grateful for the lifelong friendships and love of learning that began at Chadwick. 2008 JASPER JIN Jasper Jin is a proud Chadwick graduate from the Class of 2008 and remains grateful for the opportunities Chadwick gave him to explore, create and play. From orchestra and jazz quartet to improv, ASB, Eco Club, talent shows and curating the Friday “Music on the Lawn” playlists, Chadwick was where he learned to try everything. He also looks back fondly on leading the boys tennis team to two CIF championships, including one undefeated season. Jasper says Chadwick shaped much of who he is today, and he is excited to give back as a new member of the Alumni Board. Today, Jasper lives in El Porto with his partner and their dog, Maggie. He stays active surfing and skiing, and his love for music continues through DJing and attending countless live shows. Professionally, he leads customer success at Awesome CX, partnering with startups and e-commerce brands to build customer experience and back-office teams across the Philippines, Colombia and the United States.

’13 2013 JORDAN LUCIER Jordan Lucier ’13 and Elizabeth Dethy were married on November 1, 2025, in a beautiful and intimate ceremony surrounded by their closest family members. The couple celebrated their union at the French Library of Boston, Massachusetts, followed by a heartfelt gathering in the Wine Room of Contessa in the Newbury Hotel.

2010 NICOLE CHILLINGWORTH Nicole Chillingworth credits Chadwick’s tight-knit community, lifelong friendships and focus on educating the whole person with shaping who she is today. Experiences such as Outdoor Education and classes like Leadership gave her the perspective and skills that helped prepare her for success at Loyola Marymount University. Her career began at The Honest Company through a fellow Chadwick alum, launching her into the consumer packaged goods space. Two years ago, she co-founded Best Friend, a creative agency supporting founder-led brands. A former USA Gymnastics national team member, Nicole remains deeply grateful for Chadwick’s support throughout years of training and international competition. Today, she is an internationally ranked gymnastics judge with Team USA and is counting down to the LA28 Olympic Games. 2014 COLE FREEMAN Cole Freeman is currently a captain at Envoy Air based in DallasFort Worth. His wife is a director at Recorded Future, a cybersecurity software company. On May 11, they welcomed their first child, Cooper Robert Freeman.

MARK SONENBLICK ‘08: ONE OF CHADWICK’S OWN MADE HISTORY! Congratulations to Chadwick alumnus Mark Sonnenblick ‘08 on winning the Academy Award for Best Original Song for “Golden” from “K-Pop Demon Hunters” — the first K-pop song ever to win an Oscar. Mark co-wrote the song with EJAE, Joong Gyu Kwak, Yu Han Lee, Hee Dong Nam, Jeong Hoon Seo and Teddy Park. The song was performed live by EJAE, Audrey Nuna and Rei Ami earlier in the program. Capping off a historic awards season sweep, “Golden” won all four major awards it was eligible for this season — the Grammy, Golden Globe, Critics’ Choice Award and now the Oscar. From Chadwick to the Dolby Theatre, we couldn’t be prouder, Mark!

2016 DUVAL HANSEN Duval Hansen and her husband, Jorgen, welcomed their second baby, Levi Jacobson Hansen, in July 2025. Duval shared that he has been the perfect addition to their family and loves playing with his big sister, Eleanora. 2017 ANNELIESE SOLBERG For the second year in a row, Chadwick alumna Anneliese Solberg completed the iconic Catalina Classic, a 32-mile prone paddleboard race from Catalina Island to the Manhattan Beach Pier. Anneliese’s support boat crew included sisters Jenna Solberg ’13 and Jillian Solberg ’15. 2018 HOSUNG “TOMMY” LEE Hosung “Tommy” Lee is graduating from pharmacy school and beginning a PGY1 pharmacy residency at Magnolia Regional Health Center.

Levi Jacobson Hansen

Cooper Robert Freeman

SUMMER 2026

’21

Marianna Esquivel ’21

’22

Gabriel Jones ’23 and Paul Mainvielle ’24

’20s

2021 MARIANNA ESQUIVEL Marianna Esquivel will graduate May 24, 2026, from the University of San Diego with a Bachelor of Arts in business finance and real estate. 2021 DANIEL PLASCENCIA Daniel Plascencia recently became the first person in his family to graduate from a university. He graduated from Rice University with a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering and will return to school in September while living with his partner.

Cameron Walker ’22

’22

2022 MIA JO Mia Jo competed in fencing at the Ivy League Championship at Princeton in February 2026 as captain of the Cornell fencing team. The submitted photo was taken when Drew Coomans, also an Ivy League athlete playing soccer for Princeton, came to cheer for her former high school classmate. 2022 CAMERON WALKER On May 16, Cameron Walker graduated from the University of Virginia. Cameron shared that UVA has been a truly unique experience and that the past four years in Charlottesville have shaped her life in a meaningful way. She also shared that she will take her government major and history minor into a legal assistant position working under the CEO and CFO of a UVA-funded, patented biopharmaceutical company. 2023 GABRIEL JONES 2024 PAUL MAINVIELLE Gabriel Jones ’23, a member of the United States Naval Academy Class of 2027, and Paul Mainvielle ’24, a member of the United States Naval Academy Class of 2028, reunited at a Navy football game in the fall of 2025.

(R) Mia Joe ’22

COMPA S S M AG A ZINE

In Memoriam Brandon Bauer ’17 Laurence Bolton ’51 Nancy Brandel ’63 Betty Davidson Parent of : William V. Davidson ’63 Sharon Davidson Gentry ’61 Therry Thong Lambert ’60 Margaret Proctor Dean ’58 John Fiske , Former Faculty, Parent of Jackie Fiske ’03 John Gentry ’85 James Hall ’64 William Hamner ’57 Joseph Hudson ’85 Patricia Jones, Former Faculty Diane Dutton Jessup ’53 Brewster Knight, Former Faculty, Parent of Christopher Knight ’77 and Cameron Knight ’80 Jeffrey Mercer, Faculty, Parent of Dylan Mercer ’23 and Joshua Mercer ’23 Sally Falk Pearce ’56 Karen Taylor, Former Staff/Faculty

Upcoming Alumni Events ’26-’27

2026

AUG. 19 “Hops & Hellos” Alumni End of Summer Event Brewport Taphouse, El Segundo SEPT. 23 San Diego Alumni Event OCT. 2-3 Alumni Reunion Weekend Classes ending in “1” and “6” OCT. 3 Alumni Awards Brunch and Ceremony OCT. 12 17th Annual Golf Tournament OCT. 24 Pumpkins & Play Alumni Family Event OCT. 28 Denver Alumni Dinner with Head of School NOV. 6 NYC Alumni Event

DEC. 8 14th Annual Chadwick Professionals Holiday Mixer DEC. 19 Alumni Athletic Day DEC. 19 Class of 2016 and 2021 Reunions

2027

MARCH 1 Alumni Wellness Challenge MARCH 2 Washington, D.C. Alumni Reception with Head of School APRIL 13 9th Annual Day of Giving

SUMMER 2026

FACULT Y & STAFF NEWS Each year, faculty and staff have amazing experiences outside of their roles at Chadwick. We hope you enjoy some of these highlights. As Head of School Jessica Donovan shared about the life and experience of being an educator: “I hope we all remember how much students and their families appreciate your commitment, regardless of how often you may hear it.”

Associate Teacher JOCELYN SANCHEZ Models for a Brand That Celebrates Latinidad

Second-grade associate teacher Jocelyn Sanchez recently modeled for the brand Rare Beauty, as it launched a new foundation that highlights and celebrates the diversity of Latinidad. She says, “Being part of Rare Beauty’s new foundation campaign celebrating Latina representation was such a meaningful experience for me. As ‘Shade 31,’ I felt proud to be included in a campaign that highlights the beauty, individuality, and diversity within the Latina community. I’m grateful to be part of a message that encourages people to feel confident and seen exactly as they are.”

TYSON SACCO, Semifinalist for Impact Educator Awards

KEVIN BABUDER Conducts the

Pura Vida!

Long Beach Symphony

Congratulations to Upper School Science Department Chair Tyson Sacco! The Morehead-Cain Foundation in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, named Tyson one of its semifinalists for Impact Educator awards. Morehead-Cain is the nation’s first merit scholarship program, providing scholars with an array of opportunities and adventures. One of Tyson’s students recently named him the educator who has had the most profound impact on them.

Director of Auxiliary and Innovative Programs Kevin Babuder will be conducting the Long Beach Symphony on Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026, at the Long Beach Arena. The concert is a tribute to the music of the Eagles and features “7 Bridges,” a top-tier Eagles tribute band. Kevin has led many orchestras in live performances and in film and television sound stages. Recent conducting appearances include the Wichita Symphony Orchestra, the Garland Symphony (Texas) and many pops symphonies around the country.

After chaperoning the US Spring Break Global Program to Costa Rica, Upper School Learning Specialist Sara Mactavish shared a postcard from a family who was staying at the same hotel. They shared warm words about how Chadwick students comport themselves in the world, including “Kids — your parents should be very proud about the example you set for ours.” Pura Vida indeed!

COMPA S S M AG A ZINE

BIRTHS

Farewell, ANNIE and RICHARD

Congratulations to our two retiring educators, first-grade lead teacher Annie Spalding and instrumental music teacher Richard Babcock! Your years at Chadwick and dedication to your craft are inspiring, and we look forward to hearing about your next exciting chapters!

ANDI DEMA Engaged!

Upper School theater teacher Andi Dema proposed to his fiancée on Dec. 25, 2025, and — no drama — she said yes! Congratulations, you two!

Lead fifth-grade teacher Julia Cho brought Jayden Haneul into the world shortly before midnight, Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2025, weighing in at 7 pounds, 6 ounces and measuring just over 20 inches long. His Korean name Haneul means “Heaven.” Accounts Receivable Specialist Cesar Calderon and his partner Brenda have welcomed a beautiful baby girl into the world! Nova Del Cielo Calderon was born on May 5, 2026, at 7 pounds, 4 ounces, and 18 inches long. Mom, Dad and baby Nova are all doing well, and we wish them all the best! College Counseling Office Manager Lisa Leone became a first-time grandmother on Jan. 6, 2026. Welcome, Nicolas James, to the extended Chadwick community. Mom is doing great, and Grandma Lisa is “beside herself with happiness, love and joy.” Village Specialist in the Visual Arts Aundrae Williams and his wife Juliana welcomed their baby boy, Lyo Benito Cotto Williams, to the world at 1:10 a.m. on Feb. 20, 2026, weighing in at 7 pounds, 7 ounces. Everyone, including big sister Zozo, is doing well!

An Impromptu Work of White Board Art

Some stories just happen quickly and risk being erased if they are not shared. K-12 sustainabilty coordinator and Upper School science teacher Tori Fay took that literally, capturing this dry-erase marker art in April 2026 between classes on a whiteboard. Tori announced via email on the faculty and staff thread, “Four of our seniors just drew this on the lecture hall board. Come check it out! Amazing!!!” This work of art might be gone, but not forgotten.

Middle and Upper School science teacher Cecilia Frisardi brought cute little Zia into the world on Monday, Nov. 10, 2025. Cecilia and Zia are doing well, and we wish them all the best!

SUMMER 2026

NE W MEMBERS OF THE 2026-2027 BOARD OF TRUS TEE S

MARY RUTH NEWMAN and her husband, Jeff, are the proud parents of two Chadwick students, Thomas ’26 and Annabel ’28. Mary Ruth is senior vice president, institutional distribution, at Cohen & Steers, a global investment management firm specializing in real estate, infrastructure and other real assets. She works with institutional investors and consultants across the western United States, helping them build long-term investment portfolios. Before joining Cohen & Steers, Mary Ruth was director of consultant relations at Wells Capital Management. Earlier in her career, she spent more than 14 years working abroad in international banking, holding senior leadership roles in London and Hong Kong. Mary Ruth is actively involved in both her community and the investment industry. Most recently, she served as president of the Women in Institutional Investments Network (WIIIN) from 2023 to 2025 and has served on its board of directors since 2017. She earned a bachelor's degree in international studies from Earlham College and completed additional studies at La Sorbonne and Sciences Po in Paris.

MICHAEL ZINSER and his wife, Michele Zinser ’95 (née Trapani), are the proud parents of Samantha ’28 and Molly ’32. Michael currently serves as president and chief operating officer for Living Spaces Furniture, where he has spent the past decade leading all retail, distribution, manufacturing and customer care operations, supporting the growth of the business from a regional to a national brand. Prior to Living Spaces, Michael spent 19 years as a senior partner, global operations team leader and North American head of manufacturing with the Boston Consulting Group, a global strategy consultancy. During that time, he focused on corporate strategy, supply chain and lean manufacturing operations, partnering with Fortune 100 companies in the industrial, consumer products and retail industries. Michael, a native of Cincinnati, earned an MBA from Stanford Graduate School of Business and a BBA in finance and computer applications from the University of Notre Dame.

THE CHADWICK ALUMNI BOARD is pleased to announce its new leadership for the 20262027 year, with Harrison Kidd ’11 serving as chair and Jasper Jin ’08 as chair-elect. We extend our sincere thanks to outgoing leaders Austen Peterson ’13 and Lucy Brown Jones ’02 for their dedication, leadership and service over the past several years. The Alumni Board serves as an advisory group that helps strengthen connections between alumni and the school while advancing Chadwick’s mission. Through regular board meetings and three task forces focused on Giving, Engagement and Chadwick Professionals, members provide strategic guidance, support alumni outreach and philanthropic initiatives, and help create meaningful opportunities for alumni to connect with one another, current students and the broader Chadwick community.

COMPA S S M AG A ZINE

A RICH HISTORY ................................................................................

Before there was Compass magazine, there was Chadwick magazine. An article from the 1989 edition told the story of two of Chadwick School’s most celebrated friends — photographers Cedric Wright and Ansel Adams — who shared a connection with the founder, Margaret Chadwick, and her husband, Commander Joseph Chadwick.

In two nearly identical photographs given independently to the Chadwicks in the 1940s — from Wright as a gift and from Adams as a Christmas card — these two masters of 20th-century wilderness photography revealed how deeply the natural world shaped their art. The link between them ran deep: Wright, a violinist who turned to the camera in middle age, was Adams’ mentor and closest friend, and he was at Adams’ side on the Sierra outings where several of Adams’ most celebrated images were made. Which makes the echo between these two studies all the more striking. Did they arise from a lifetime of walking the same trails and seeing through the same lens, or perhaps an unspoken challenge between two peers in their field — or simply from pure coincidence? Either way, the resonance between them is a fascinating chapter in Chadwick’s history.

by cedric wright

by ansel adams

Above. View from a pass in the High Sierras Left. Grass in the rain

Above. A canyon behind Chadwick School. This photograph was shot for the 1941 catalogue, but not used.

These two photographs were part of a set of prints presented as a gift to Margaret Chadwick.

“From these mountains and cloud haloes ascend eternal meanings. A great world of music floods consciousness. A larger love flows into living, from which vast and subtle change shall descend upon the nations, bringing healing.” – Cedric Wright

Left. “Grass, Glacier Bay, Alaska,” from a 1949 Christmas card to the Chadwicks. “In contemplation of the eternal incarnations of the spirit which vibrate in every mountain, leaf, and particle of earth, in every cloud, stone, and flash of sunlight, we make new discoveries on the planes of ethical and humane discernment. ... The clear realities of nature seen with the inner eye of the spirit reveal the ultimate echo of God.” – Ansel Adams

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Middle School students and faculty examined marine biodiversity on the shores of Jeju Island, South Korea.