Choate Rosemary Hall Bulletin | Fall '21

FALL ’21

WHERE DO WE GO

NEXT…

Choate’s 2021 Strategic Plan

In this issue:

THE PATH AHEAD The Choate Rosemary Hall 2021 Strategic Plan

A COMMITMENT TO PROGRESS The Choate Rosemary Hall 2021 DEI Task Force Report

END NOTE Uncommon Bonds

by Lovey Roundtree Oliff ’97

Memorial Circle Weathervane Takes Flight!

The Memorial Circle memorial flag pole has been restored to its original glory with the reattachment of the weathervane. The weathervane commemorates Vaughan J. Weatherley 1920, who died in a plane crash during a test flight in 1928 along with pilot Sir Royal Thomas. The memorial weathervane was shaped after the Bellanca Monoplane that crashed. It was gifted to the School in 1928 by Mrs. W. W. Caswell, Weatherley’s mother. Sadly, it was destroyed in 1950 during a storm. It was replaced two years later by another Bellanca Monoplane, but this one, too, was damaged, in 1960, and for many years it was replaced with a biplane replica. The new weathervane, once more a monoplane, was made by East Coast Weathervanes, and fully restores this memorial to campus.

CONTENTS | Fall 2021 d e p a r t m e n t s

2 3 4 22

24

Letters

Remarks from the Head of School

On Christian & Elm News about the School Alumni Association News

Classnotes Profiles of Woo Welch Caroland ’76, Founder, Woo Skincare + Cosmetics; Georgine Anton ’81, Managing Director of Creative Marketing, Accenture; Laura Machanic ’86, Co-Founder and CFO, New Target Digital Marketing; Yahonnes Cleary ’96, Partner, Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison

44 50

In Memoriam Remembering Those We Have Lost Scoreboard

54

Bookshelf Reviews of works by Peter C. Goldmark Jr. ’58, Heather Ettinger ’79; Review and Q&A with Jim Campbell ’73 on p. 32

56

End Note

Uncommon Bonds by Lovey Roundtree Oliff ’97 f e a t u r e s

6

The Path Ahead Introducing Choate Rosemary Hall’s 2021 Strategic Plan

16

A Commitment to Progress A summary of Choate Rosemary Hall’s 2021 DEI Task Force Report

FALL ’21

Choate Rosemary Hall Bulletin is published fall, winter, and spring for alumni, students and their parents, and friends of the School. Please send change of address to Alumni Records and all other correspondence to the Communications Office, 333 Christian Street, Wallingford, CT 06492-3800.

Choate Rosemary Hall does not discriminate in the administration of its educational policies, athletics, other school-administered programs, or in the administration of its hiring and employment practices on the basis of age, gender, race, color, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, genetic predisposition, ancestry, or other categories protected by Connecticut and federal law. Printed in U.S.A. CRH201201/17.75M

Editorial Offices T: (203) 697-2252 F: (203) 697-2380 Email: alumline@choate.edu Website: www.choate.edu Chief Communications Officer Alison J. Cady Design and Production David C. Nesdale Editor Brianna St. John Classnotes Editor Henry McNulty ’65 Contributors Jonas Akins Alex Ashford D. Gam Bepko DEI Task Force Magaly Olivero Jerome A. Parker ’97 Al Potter ’67 Lovey Roundtree Oliff ’97 Leslie Virostek Julie Winkel Photography Danielle Capri Madeleine Dubrinsky ‘22 John Giammatteo ’77 Tom Kates Mike Klimaszewski David Nesdale USPS

Choate Rosemary Hall Board of Trustees 2021-2022 Alexandra B. Airth P ’18 Danya Alsaady P ’17, ’19, ’23 Kenneth G. Bartels ’69, P ’04 Caroline T. Brown ’86, P ’19 Marc E. Brown ’82 George F. Colony ’72 Alex D. Curtis P ’17, ’20 Katherine B. Forrest ’82 David A. Fraze ’84 Kelly Green Kahn ’86 Gunther S. Hamm ’98 David R. Hang ’94, P ’25 Jungwook “Ryan” Hong ’89, P ’19, ’22, ’25 Daniel G. Kelly, Jr. ’69, P ’03 Vanessa Kong Kerzner P ’16, ’19 Cecelia M. Kurzman ’87 James A. Lebovitz ’75, P ’06, ’10 Christian B. McGrath ’84, P ’18, ’21 Takashi Murata ’93, P ’25 George F. Pyne IV ’84 M. Anne Sa’adah Life Trustees Bruce S. Gelb ’45, P ’72, ’74, ’76, ’78 Edwin A. Goodman ’58 Herbert V. Kohler, Jr. ’57, P ’84 Cary L. Neiman ’64 Stephen J. Schulte ’56, P ’86 William G. Spears ’56, P ’81, ’90 Editorial Advisory Board Judy Donald ’66 Dorothy Heyl ’71, P ’08 Seth Hoyt ’61 Henry McNulty ’65 Michelle Judd Rittler ’98 John Steinbreder ’74 Francesca Vietor ’82 Heather Zavod P ’88, ’90

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Letter from the Editor Dear Choate Rosemary Hall Community, I’m excited to introduce myself as the new editor of the Choate Rosemary Hall Bulletin. I took the helm in July 2021 after working for four years as the Communications Office Coordinator. During that time, I contributed to the Bulletin as a copyeditor, book reviewer, and profile writer, and I had the privilege of working with Lorraine Connelly, my predecessor, until her retirement in 2020. I’ve learned so much about the community through the Bulletin since coming to Choate, and I’m excited to learn more as I transition into this new role.

Having worked behind the scenes, I know firsthand how much love and hard work goes into this magazine. From the rich community that lives and breathes these stories; to the alumni, staff, and faculty who bring unique and interesting story ideas; to the phenomenal team of writers, proofreaders, editors, designers, illustrators, and photographers on campus and beyond – I’m lucky to work with the people who live and breathe the Bulletin, and thus live and breathe Choate. Truly, this magazine is the very definition of team effort, from everyone who works to produce it to all of you reading at home. This magazine would not exist without you, and I’m so grateful for all your contributions..

Fun fact: despite the last name, I’m not related to the Choate St. Johns, so I’m still learning the School’s history. If you have any stories to share, feel free to send me a note!

Be well, everyone. I can’t wait to hear from you!

Brianna St. John Manager of Editorial Services

Remarks from the Head of School

Dear Alumni and Friends of Choate Rosemary Hall, Greetings and Happy Fall. While spring is often cited as the time of new beginnings, this term brings with it a wealth of positive changes that will be felt across campus in the months ahead.

Over 99 percent of our campus is now vaccinated, a feat made possible, in part, by campus volunteers transporting our students to vaccination clinics, and by Choate’s hosting an on-campus vaccination clinic for our youngest students. We are grateful to our partners in the town of Wallingford, to our Medical Director, Dr. Miriam Cohen, and to the entire Health and Safety team for their tremendous efforts in keeping the community informed and protected.

As we return to campus, with mitigating COVID policies in place, we now look to the future of the School. In this issue, we catch up with several notable alumni who are working to embrace the future of their own industries, and we take a closer look at the meaningful changes that have taken place for the School.

In June, the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Task Force released its final report, recommending authentic, effective, and sustainable initiatives that will ensure that we create the most just, inclusive, and equitable Choate Rosemary Hall community possible. I am grateful to Dr. Rachel Myers, Dean of Equity and Inclusion, and the entire Task Force for their work in researching and creating this report, and whose recommendations will guide our future work.

We are also truly delighted to share Choate Rosemary Hall’s new Strategic Plan. Rather than create a completely new set of foundations, the Strategic Plan builds upon the School’s existing strengths. It is a deepening of our understanding of who we are as an institution and a more thorough exploration of where our values lie. The Strategic Plan can be found in its entirety on pp. 6–15, along with the story of how the new plan came to fruition.

We also recently celebrated the reopening of Hill House this term. Following a lightning strike and fire in 2019, we were given the opportunity not just to rebuild the space, but to reimagine it. College Counseling has returned to find its offices renovated and improved. Students, faculty, and staff can expect a brighter, more welcoming entry into the building and Dining Hall, and alumni will see that the architecture has returned to the design they knew prior to 1996. The freestanding fireplace and renovated staircase create more open space leading through the lobby. Dorms were rebuilt with the next generation of boarding students in mind, with shared areas like kitchens, lounges, and laundry facilities designed to help students feel more relaxed and at home. With the reopening of Hill House, we fully embrace the spirit of new beginnings bolstering this term.

We wish all our alumni, parents, students, staff, and faculty a happy and healthy fall. We are excited to share this next leg of our journey together as a community.

With all best wishes from campus,

Alex D. Curtis Head of School

4

ON CHRISTIAN & ELM | NEWSWORTHY

Tara Westover greets students at a book signing after her talk.

Former Student Council President Ula Lucas ‘21 addresses the graduating class.

131st Commencement Celebrated on Campus At the 131st Commencement Exercises on Sunday, May 30, Head of School Alex D. Curtis and the Board of Trustees of Choate Rosemary Hall bestowed diplomas and certificates on the sixth form class of 239 graduates.

Commencement remarks to the Class of 2021 were delivered by President of the Sixth Form Luke Barrett, who was introduced by former Student Council President Ula Lucas. He spoke of the many accomplishments of the sixth form class, noting their perseverance, camaraderie, and flexibility. “With everything around us changing, the Class of 2021 served as each other’s constants. It became our responsibility to uphold and pass along the Choate experience,” with “personal connections serving as the greatest constant.”

In his valedictory remarks, Dr. Curtis, celebrated the Class of 2021 with gratitude and appreciation. He recognized the many ways graduates, faculty, and staff pivoted to adapt to COVID-19 on campus, noting ”how hard so many people worked to make it possible for us to be together as much as we were and to be able to provide the most Choate-like experience possible under the conditions we faced.”

Thanks to the dedication of the entire School community throughout the term, friends and family from across the globe were able to join faculty and staff to celebrate both in Wallingford, with remote participants joining via livestream. Congratulations, Class of 2021!

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Choate Wins FIRST Robotics Competition For the 2021 season, the FIRST Robotics Competition offered three At Home Challenges which allowed teams to compete remotely. Choate’s FRC Team 7407 participated in two FIRST Robotics Competition At Home Challenges, taking home wins in both.

In the INFINITE RECHARGE At Home challenge, the team’s robot competed globally in both the skills challenges and the judged awards categories.

The team’s robot named Big Boar 2 won the Excellence in Engineering Award for its unique design.

The group’s submission of Mineral Mayhem for the Game Design Challenge also won the Engineering Design Award.

Faculty Chairs Awarded at 132nd Convocation At Convocation this fall, Dean of Faculty Tom White awarded three faculty chairs: the Karl J. and Augusta O. Monrad Chair to psychology teacher Tiffany Rivera; the Charles T. Wilson Jr. ’36 Chair in Honor of Courtenay Hemenway to Senior Associate Dean of College Counseling Eric Stahura; The William G. Shute and John Ed Wilfong Chair to science teacher and Director of Curricular Initiatives Deron Chang.

From left: Tom White, Deron Chang, Eric Stahura, Tiffany Rivera, Alex D. Curtis, and Katie Levesque.

choate.edu has a new look!

We ask our students, faculty, and staff to push the limits. To imagine bigger, work smarter, and become the best version of themselves. We looked at our website and thought, “Why shouldn’t we?”

Starting with community feedback and inspired by an updated brand message, we looked deeper at functionality, user experience, and accessibility to revise the website into a tool that will attract students, parents, and faculty interested in joining us in Wallingford.

Always motivated to differentiate Choate, we have developed a site that is mobile-centric, mediarich, and focused on our stories. Our goal with this redesign was to do what the entire community does every day: push boundaries and strive to be its best.

With these changes, we hope not only to serve you better, but to inspire the next generation of students to discover what makes us uniquely Choate.

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Cover Story

The Path

AHEAD Choate Rosemary Hall 2021 Strategic Plan

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MEMBERS OF THE CHOATE ROSEMARY HALL COMMUNITY, We as a School pride ourselves on who we are – a community committed to integrity, respect, and compassion. We also know that our identity cannot be defined by these words alone – it must be supported by the actions we take each day, both as individuals and as an institution.

Choate Rosemary Hall’s 2021 Strategic Plan seeks to do precisely that: to unify our commitments with our actions. Through 2019 and into the start of 2020, we, along with the Board of Trustees and senior administrators, met with students, faculty, staff, alumni, and parents, seeking far-reaching ideas regarding Choate’s current direction and reflecting upon how we as an institution need to adapt in order to benefit all of our constituents. Through these discussions and past planning processes, we have learned that a good strategic plan is so much more than a checklist – it is a focused, thoughtful, and succinct way to streamline institutional priorities while giving us the flexibility to evolve, improve, and do the things we do well even better. It allows us to make decisions that honor our values. It does not redefine who we are, but instead, allows us to find better ways of embracing the best of ourselves and our community.

Through the 2021 Strategic Plan, we strive to solidify Choate as a place of action, innovation, and collaboration. We will share more information about a comprehensive fundraising campaign to support our strategic initiatives in the next 12 months. In the meantime, we look forward to seeing these goals guide us into new projects, new strategies, and new commitments as the future unfolds.

Sincerely,

Alex D. Curtis George F. Colony ’72 Head of School Chairman of the Board of Trustees

8

WHERE

WE STARTED In 2012, Choate Rosemary Hall initiated the first community-wide strategic planning process in 20 years, and in 2013 began implementation of its new comprehensive Strategic Plan. This reflective, forward-thinking document set the stage for the next seven years of visionary evolution in four major areas of School operations: Cohesion and Culture; Teaching and Learning; Enrollment and Student Outcomes; and Communication and Outreach.

These four initiatives provided the entire community with a shared roadmap of common goals. During the seven-year implementation cycle, the School realized all of these goals, which resulted in, among many other initiatives: Adopting the Statement of Expectations Reviewing and developing of the Central Qualities of a Choate Education Establishing the Office of Equity and Inclusion and the Office of Institutional Research Designing, constructing, and opening of St. John Hall student center and Colony Hall Expanding of the iPad program Adding two additional Signature Programs, in robotics and government and public service

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Coordinating outreach and recruitment efforts for the Admission Office Celebrating of the School’s 125th year

After meeting all of the 2013 benchmark goals, the School began the process again in 2020, reflecting on Choate’s strengths and challenges while honing in on the goals and initiatives that will carry us through our next Strategic Plan.

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THE

PROCESS

The first phase of developing a new Strategic Plan called for deep internal reflection, not only of the School’s achievements, but of its values. This process was led by the Strategic Planning Steering Committee, headed by trustees Caroline Brown ’86, P ’19 and Jim Lebovitz ’75, P ’06, ’10. The Committee turned to the community for guidance, getting input from 27 focus groups comprising faculty, staff, student, parent, and alumni, along with constituent surveys and departmental evaluations. Choate also benchmarked itself against peer schools and performed institutional, industry and trend research for additional context and inspiration.

Equipped with research, analysis, and constituent feedback, the Committee led a group of 60 individuals – Trustees, faculty, staff, and students – through a two-day planning retreat in January 2020. Through small group discussions, plenary presentations, and casual conversations, a list of common priorities and themes central to the Choate experience began to emerge.

Charged by the Strategic Planning Steering Committee and inspired by the retreat, an on-campus writing committee then set out to bring structure and organization to the big ideas, producing a first draft of a new plan that they then turned over to the Strategic Planning Steering Committee.

When the campus closed in March of 2020 in response to the pandemic, Strategic Planning, like so much else, went remote. Delayed but not deterred, the Strategic Planning Steering Committee presented a final draft of its plan to the on-campus community this spring; and in April, the Board of Trustees adopted the new Strategic Plan.

A detailed implementation plan was developed in June, and implementation itself began on July 1. The Board of Trustees will review implementation progress annually throughout the life of the plan, with periodic updates shared more broadly with the School community.

Informed by the foundational mission of the School, and in response to and recognition of the evolving conditions around us, the 2021 Choate Rosemary Hall Strategic Plan challenges us to strengthen our core, advance our culture, and stride into the future.

STRATEGIC PLAN STEERING COMMITTEE

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FOCUS GROUPS

+ 2-DAY RETREAT with

60

INDIVIDUALS

1

IMPLEMENTATION PLAN

10

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WHERE

DO WE GO NEXT?

With each new Strategic Plan, the School has the opportunity to ask, where do we go next? How do we continue to grow? How do we leverage the strides we’ve already taken and ensure that we set goals that help move the School forward?

The key to a successful implementation is a commitment to tracking progress, allocating resources, and dedicating time during each busy school year to focus on our stated goals.

When a Strategic Plan is embraced and prioritized, it becomes part of the fabric of the community’s work together.

Much of the groundwork for the new plan has been laid, and work has already begun. The 2021 Strategic Plan gives voice to an institutional commitment for Choate to build upon its mission, prepare for the future thoughtfully and intentionally, and utilize its current strength and spirit to succeed. e

The Choate Rosemary Hall 2021 Strategic Plan

ST

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RENGTHEN OUR CORE We will build on our tradition of providing transformational academic and extracurricular student experiences by continuously adopting new ways of teaching and learning.

Implementation Drive excellence in our faculty and staff by embracing innovative approaches and techniques.

Build a curriculum that emphasizes collaborative and cross-disciplinary methods.

Maximize learning opportunities in athletics, the arts, residential life, and all community endeavors.

Promote inquiring and respectful discourse, made richer by the different experiences around us.

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ADVANCE

OUR CULTURE

We will develop good character in our students and promote respect for equity and fairness, responsible citizenship, wellness, and an innovative and positive approach to the future.

Implementation Use core School documents to set community-wide expectations and accountability.

Enhance current equity and inclusion initiatives by developing new community-wide programs to support our goals.

Strengthen services and programming to support the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health of our community.

Become an acknowledged secondary school leader in environmental sustainability by operating with a reduced carbon footprint and creating a climate change solutions curriculum.

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14

We will better society through the contributions of students we graduate into the world.

Implementation Educate our students in the skills, knowledge, and technology needed to thrive beyond the classroom and their time at Choate.

Support our faculty and staff to deliver exceptional education through the Choate experience.

Grow the endowment to support affordable tuition, need-based scholarships, an excellent faculty and staff, and a viable, long-term business model for the School.

Create, expand, and promote opportunities for our alumni to engage with current students and their fellow alumni and participate in the ongoing Choate experience.

STRIDE

Secure streams of revenue beyond tuition, leveraging Choate’s physical and intellectual assets.

INTO THE FUTURE

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A special thanks to the Choate Rosemary Hall Board of Trustees, administration, writing contributors, strategic planning retreat participants, and School community members who took time to participate in this important process.

Strategic Planning Steering Committee Caroline T. Brown ’86, P ’19 Alison J. Cady P ’23 Chief Communications Officer George F. Colony ’72 Chairman of the Board of Trustees Alex D. Curtis P ’17, ’20 Head of School James A. Lebovitz ’75, P ’06, ’10 Corey Wrinn Director of Institutional Research

16

Feature

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Feature

A Commitment to

PROGRESS Choate Rosemary Hall’s 2021 DEI Task Force Report by the DEI Ta sk Force

In the wake of George Floyd’s murder and the subsequent protests across the nation, Dr. Alex D. Curtis wrote to the entire Choate Rosemary Hall community on June 4, 2020. In this letter, he wrote: “We did not begin as a school that welcomed students of all backgrounds, identities, and beliefs.

While we have made significant progress throughout the history of our School, there is more to be done. We must recommit ourselves to examining our past and present in order to ensure that we create in the future the most just, inclusive, and equitable Choate Rosemary Hall that we can.”

This articulation of Choate Rosemary Hall’s values and commitment to justice and equity was an important first step in the process that ultimately led to the formation of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Task Force. In the immediate weeks that followed, groups of current students and recent alumni reached out to the School to share their experiences and to offer specific institutional and systemic recommendations that they felt would allow Choate to achieve its stated goal “to do better.”

These groups went on to meet with representatives from the School, including the Head of School and Senior Officers, department heads, and the Office of Development and Alumni Relations.

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Initiative

18

Toward the end of June, as part of a nationwide movement of Black-identifying students and alumni sharing experiences and perspectives from their time at secondary and collegiate private institutions, Choate heard from its own. Says Task Force member Kelly Lorraine ’99, P ’24, “I was distressed and appalled that hurts were still being perpetuated in our community in the present time. It forced me to reflect on my own experiences as a student (now over twenty years ago!), investigate my identity as a Person of Color, and learn more about how structural racism truly is.”

At that time, Dr. Curtis, in consultation with school leadership, determined that there was a clear and demonstrated need for a more systematic and holistic approach to responding to the many concerns raised, while also evaluating areas of growth for the Choate community. Says Task Force member Mike Velez ’00, “If Choate is always striving to be the best version of itself, it needs to be committed to ongoing and applicable diversity, equity, and inclusion work and initiatives.”

A Personal Connection to Institutional Initiatives Choate’s commitment to equity and justice encompasses far-reaching initiatives that span both personal and professional development, alongside structural changes within the institution. With the community sharing common goals, the question became how to reach those goals while recognizing that each department would have its own needs and resources.

The answer was not found in a one-size-fits-all model.

Rather, the Task Force gave a broad range of suggestions, allowing for departments to find more tailored solutions for implementation. The Task Force offered long-term goals, and each department has been empowered to pursue individualized training and implementation necessary for their staff. As the report states: “The purpose and function of this DEI Task Force was to conduct a comprehensive review of systems, practices, and policies as well as consult many constituencies of the Choate Rosemary Hall community in order to better understand perceived strengths and areas of growth for this community

“By openly facing our past, our failures, our successes, and our potential for growth, we have the most genuine opportunity to foster and sustain a community based on dignity and respect.”

– E L L E N DEVINE, ENGLISH DEPARTMENT FACULTY

The Work of the Task Force In order to demonstrate that very commitment, the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Task Force was assembled and given its charge. Members for the Task Force included faculty and staff who represent multiple areas of school life and hold a variety of identifiers. The Task Force’s original time frame estimated that its review would be complete by the end of October 2020.

As the group began to examine practice, consider policy, and meet with various constituents, it became clear that in order to offer recommendations that aligned with the charge of “creating deliberate, meaningful, and lasting change,” a more thorough and complete process was required. At that time, Dr. Curtis immediately approved a request from the Task Force to extend their work through the full 2020-21 academic year.

regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion. That comprehensive review and the recommendations that emerged from that work is where the work of the Task Force ends.” (DEI Task Force Final Report, p. 9.)

This approach allows departments to work toward long-term equity and inclusion goals while also having the freedom to pursue unique solutions for each department that are thoughtful and informative, not just to support the institution, but to create an atmosphere and culture of true care and desire to improve.

In introducing these initiatives to the School, the Task Force’s approach was not to offer only one specific set of programming or training, but to allow for thoughtful engagement and conversation. In giving recommendations, individuals have the freedom to explore a wealth of new training under the Task Force’s guidance, bringing a personal feel to an institutional commitment.

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Four Pillars of Progress The Task Force offered four main pillars of action, each with its own list of goals. These four pillars give an organized plan for addressing equity and justice on campus while also providing recommendations for department-based changes. Full descriptions of these initiatives, as well as the Task Force’s full report, can be viewed on the Equity and Inclusion page of the Choate Rosemary Hall website.

Individuals and Community The Individuals and Community pillar seeks to increase representation within the School, ensuring that the campus community reflects the global perspectives that make Choate such a unique place. Hiring practices, access to alumni networks, and empowering curricula that allow students to explore their identities and build empathy are all taken into account, as are cultural competency, physical accessibility, and sustainable partnerships with social justice organizations.

Curriculum and Academic Opportunity Choate Rosemary Hall has a longstanding belief that learning extends far beyond the classroom, and that what does take place in the classroom should not be confined to a simple exchange of information. With this mindset, a deeper look at the Choate curriculum becomes necessary. This pillar calls for a review of current courses, looking at inclusivity and representation and adapting to the needs of the entire community. It also emphasizes the importance of the student experience, promoting equitable and inclusive advising practices, recruitment and admission practices, and graduation requirements.

Commitment and Accountability This pillar aims to lay the groundwork for putting shared campus-wide goals into action, ensuring that the systems at work within the School support these goals long-term. This includes the creation and implementation of policies like the Policy Regarding Derogatory and Dehumanizing Content and Language, the Institutional Statement on DEI philosophy, and the Bias Incident Reporting form. The goal of this initiative is to give the community a common language with which to pursue change and a clear, united structure to which to adhere.

Knowledge and Action The Knowledge and Action pillar focuses on institutional research and faculty development. By collecting and sharing data about historical and current trends, the School can better identify future initiatives and recommendations to increase individual and institutional understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion, while positively impacting those experiences for constituents on campus.

Looking Ahead: Fostering and Guiding the Strategic Plan Working alongside the Task Force’s report, the School’s new Strategic Plan was approved by the Board of Trustees in April (the Strategic Plan can be found on p. 6–15). Working separately and in tandem, these documents contain the maps that will guide Choate into the future as a more thoughtful and equitable institution.

The goals contained in these documents allow Choate to evaluate not just who we are as an institution, but what we value. Says Task Force member Ellen Devine, “By openly facing our past, our failures, our successes, and our potential for growth, we have the most genuine opportunity to foster and sustain a community based on dignity and respect.”

With this final report, the Task Force completes ten months of discussion, research, investigation, reflection, presentations, revision, crafting of policy, and creation of documents and systems. The publication of this report marks the end of the Task Force’s work and the completion of its charge, but the work of making Choate Rosemary Hall an institution that promotes “hope, justice, equality, and peace” remains a central project for all members of this community.

Choate Rosemary Hall is thankful to the entire community for its participation in the process of informing, discussing, and implementing the Task Force’s work.

With special thanks to the DEI Task Force members who developed this report: Ellen Devine English Department Faculty

Edrik Lopez English Department Faculty Kelly Lorraine ’99, P’24 Arts Department Staff Rachel Myers (Chair), Dean of Equity and Inclusion and English Department Faculty

Roney Eford Director of Athletics Charlie Fuentes Language Department Head and Co-Chair of the Faculty Committee Raynetta Gibbs Assistant Director of Counseling

Cindy Okrah HPRSS Department Faculty Mike Velez ’00 Dean of Students Yuxin Xie Science Department Faculty

Will Gilyard ’98 Dean of the Class of 2023 and Associate for Alumni Engagement

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ALUMNI ASSOCIATION | The Choate Rosemary Hall Alumni Association’s mission is to create, perpetuate, and enhance relationships among Choate Rosemary Hall alumni, current and prospective students, faculty, staff, and friends in order to foster loyalty, interest, and support for the School and for one another, and to build pride, spirit, and community.

OFFICERS President David Hang ’94

Los Angeles Wesley Hansen ’98 Alexa Platt ’95

Vice Presidents Dewey Kang ’03 Justin Graham ’98 Elizabeth Alford Hogan ’82 John Smyth ’83, P ’20

New York Sheila Adams James ’01 Julie Kang ’12

Chief Development Officer Dan Courcey ’86 Director of Development and Alumni Relations Mari Jones Director of Alumni Relations Andrea Solomon Past Presidents Susan Barclay ’85 Chris Hodgson ’78, P ’12, ’14, ’17 Parisa Jaffer ’89 Woody Laikind ’53 Patrick McCurdy ’98 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Susan St. John Amorello ’84, P ’15, ’15 Melissa Barrett ’88, P ’21, ’23 Jaques Clariond ’01 John Glanville ’73 Jack Kingsley ’87 Lambert Lau ’97 Alexandra G. Smith ’09 REGIONAL CLUB LEADERSHIP Boston Lovey Oliff ’97 Sarah Strang ’07 Kristine Yamartino ’10 Chicago Maria Del Favero ’83 Connecticut David Aversa ’91 Katie Vitali Childs ’95, P ’24

Rosemary Hall Anne Marshall Henry ’62 San Francisco Ian Chan ’10 Washington, DC Olivia Bee ’10 Dan Carucci ’76 Tillie Fowler ’92 Beijing Matthew Cheng ’10 Gunther Hamm ’98 Hong Kong Lambert Lau ’97 Sandy Wan ’90 Jennifer Yu ’99 London Ed Harney ’82, P ’15, ’17 Elitsa Nacheva ’08

THANKS FOR JOINING US! From dining rooms and living rooms, backyard patios and gardens, in 22 countries across the world, more than 700 Choate Rosemary Hall alumni gathered for Virtual Reunion Weekend, May 13-15.

Alumni enjoyed more than 75 sessions ranging from informal happy hours to educational classes, tours of campus to keynote speakers. Some opted to make crab cakes with Chef Goeff ’91, while others tuned in to hear Alex D. Curtis, Head of School share updates from campus and to join him for a video tour of the Hill House renovation. Some participated in a Spiritual Life panel while still others discussed Equity and Inclusion. Many Choate faculty participated, offering classes, sitting on panels, or simply connecting with former students. It was a true gathering of the extended Choate community and a joyous celebration of our milestone Reunion classes.

Most significantly, the essence of Reunion Weekend was as it has always been – an opportunity for connection. A chance for alumni to connect in meaningful ways with their friends and classmates, and with their school.

Seoul Ryan Hong ’89, P ’19, ’22 Shanghai T.C. Chau ’97 Michael ’88 and Peggy Moh P ’18, ’23

STAY CONNECTED ALL YEAR!

Thailand Isa Chirathivat ’96 Pat Sethbhakdi ’85, P ’18, ’18, ’20

You can engage with the School anytime.

Visit the Alumni Webpage for news, upcoming events, and to view recordings of our webinars held throughout the year. www.choate.edu/alumni

Tokyo Robert Morimoto ’89 Miki Yoshida ’07

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Hall of Fame

C H O AT E R O S E M A R Y H A L L

AT H L E T I C S H A L L FA M E OF

2021

Each year on Reunion Weekend, the Alumni Association recognizes outstanding athletes whose contributions and achievements left an indelible mark on the School. In a virtual ceremony on May 14, Director of Athletics Roney Eford inducted six alumni and one team into the Choate Rosemary Hall Athletics Hall of Fame. Inductees were joined by families, classmates, teammates, and coaches in an evening of celebration and virtual camaraderie.

WILLIAM “BILL” MCCONNEL ’55, Track Co-Captain, led the team to undefeated seasons in 1954 and 1955. Bill ran cross country for Bucknell College and shortly thereafter, began a renowned coaching career at Shady Side Academy in Pittsburgh.

HEIDI HOWARD ALLEN ’95 played field hockey, ice hockey, and lacrosse at Choate, earning nine varsity letters, captaining three sports, and earning the Excellence in Field Hockey and Lacrosse awards.

In 1995, her teams posted a remarkable 42 wins and four losses. Heidi played field hockey and lacrosse at Middlebury College, and later coached at Choate, Middlebury, and Bates.

HEATHER LINDMAN WOOLBERT ’95 swam three years at Choate, holding two national records, four New England records, and 11 Choate records.

Heather co-captained the Choate swim team in 1995 and earned MVP at the New England Championships that same year. Heather swam for Harvard in 1996 and 1997.

KHARI STEPHENSON ’00 played center midfield for Choate’s soccer team for two years, helping the team win all three post-season championships – Founders League, Western New Englands, and New Englands. Khari played at Williams College and then went on to play for the Jamaican National Team, Chicago Fire, Kansas City Wizards, two Scandinavian teams, Real Salt Lake, and San Jose Earthquakes.

KYLE A. CRISCUOLO ’11 played two seasons of hockey at Choate, with more than 40 points each season, and winning awards for Greatest Contribution in Athletics in 2010 and 2011. Kyle played for Harvard and then professionally with the Grand Rapids Griffins (Detroit Red Wings Organization), Buffalo Sabres, and Philadelphia Flyers.

WILL HARRIS ’15 was captain of the Choate varsity football team, helping lead the Boars to the 2014 NEPSAC Bowl Championship title. Will played defensive back for Boston College and was then drafted by the Detroit Lions.

THE 1980 CHOATE ROSEMARY HALL FOOTBALL TEAM came together as a talented and driven group of individuals, and with the leadership of a dedicated coach, delivered an unprecedented season. The team won all eight games of the season, allowing only 62 points total and an average of 135 yards per game.

Both of these figures were the lowest to date in Choate history. This impressive season was capped off with the team’s 4th quarter comeback against Deerfield in the final game of the season.

We congratulate all of the 2021 inductees to the Choate Rosemary Hall Athletics Hall of Fame!

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ALUMNI ASSOCIATION | Recognition

2021

“My supporting [Choate] and working for something that I care deeply about and have an affiliation with … was an easy thing for me to do over those years.”

DISTINGUISHED

SERVICE AWARD

THOMAS R. WALL IV ’76 ’84 The 2020 Distinguished Service Award Recipient, Susan Barclay ’85, officially received her award on May 13 as well. Check out the Spring 2020 issue of the Bulletin to see our profile on Susan!

To kick off Reunion Weekend 2021, Head of School Alex D. Curtis, in a virtual ceremony on May 13, awarded the Choate Rosemary Hall Alumni Association Distinguished Service Award to Thomas R. Wall, IV ’76, for his leadership and generosity in service of the School.

Choate Rosemary Hall ties run deep in Tom’s family. His father, Thomas R. Wall, III, graduated in 1950, and Tom attended as the first of five siblings, with Joshua ’77, Christopher ’80, Jonathan ’82, and Cinda ’83 in a steady stream after him. Following came a handful of nieces and nephews – a true generational presence!

As a young alumnus, Tom understood the power of philanthropic giving, even when his early contributions felt modest. In Tom’s first communications with the School as an alumnus, he cemented his commitment to Choate – his “goal to support the school long into the future.” And he did just that.

Upon graduation from Choate, Tom earned a Bachelor of Science from Washington & Lee University. In 1983, he joined Kelso & Company and has built a career there since, currently serving as a Senior Advisory Partner and Managing Director.

In the 45 years since Tom graduated, his generosity of time and resource has been a pillar of strength to the Choate community. Tom was a member of the Choate Rosemary Hall Board of Trustees from 1998 to 2009. He served as Chair of the Investment Committee from 2004 to 2009, at the time of conversion from a committee/ consultant management structure to one with a chief investment officer. Tom continues to serve on the Investment Committee, sharing his vast knowledge to this day.

Stalwart and committed, Tom has also been a model of loyalty over the years – always stepping up as a leader among the Class of 1976 and the entire alumni community. In 1997, Tom established a scholarship fund in a heartfelt effort to make the promise of a Choate education possible for future students. Through the years, his thoughtful engagement and generosity have helped spur and support campus projects, ranging from a fitness center renovation to a new turf field, and most recently, Ann and George Colony Hall.

His generosity has inspired his alumni peers and helped Choate become the School we know today.

Upon receiving the award, Tom reflected on his service, “Choate stood out. Choate had character, integrity; the students are happy and there is a true community, which differentiated itself in my mind. And, my supporting something and working for something that I care deeply about and have an affiliation with, and is one of the best in the country, was an easy thing for me to do over those years.”

BULLETIN | FALL 2021 23

2021 ALUMNI AWARD

HENRY N. HIPPS III ’90

“At its best, Choate can be the gold standard when it comes to secondary school experiences. For me, that level of opportunity became a clear benchmark for what is possible.”

Each spring, Choate Rosemary Hall presents the Alumni Award to an alumnus/a for outstanding achievement in his or her chosen profession. This is the highest award the School bestows upon a graduate. At School Meeting on May 24, Head of School Alex Curtis presented the 2021 Alumni Award to Henry N. Hipps, III, Class of 1990, for his distinguished career making social and economic impact through innovation and entrepreneurship. Most recently, Henry has been advancing innovative education policy at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Henry’s Sixth Form Advisor, Howard Hand, reflected at the time, “I could not ask for a better citizen in the house. Choate Rosemary Hall was very lucky when Henry Hipps decided to come here to study, learn, and play.”

Upon graduation from Choate, Henry went on to receive his Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from University of Pennsylvania and then his Master of Science in Chemical Engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology. Henry was awarded a Fulbright scholarship in Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay to work with high potential technology start-ups that were poised to drive economic growth in the region.

As Henry moved into his professional life, he first worked as a consultant and engagement manager for IBM Business Consulting, then founded Trajectory Learning, a pioneering ed-tech venture which delivered K-12 courseware with culturally relevant content, designed to improve student engagement and outcomes. Henry

then became Senior Director of the Partnership for Los Angeles Schools, the city’s comprehensive initiative to turn around underperforming schools. This professional trajectory lead Henry to his current position, as Deputy Director of the Education Team at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. There, his role is to improve the availability, awareness, and implementation of solutions that support teachers and increase student achievement in K-12 education.

He has helped the foundation simultaneously address the needs of the public sector, engage private capital, address market failures, and invest in entrepreneurial models.

In accepting the 2021 Alumni Award, Henry shared reflections with the Choate community: “At its best, Choate can be the gold standard when it comes to secondary school experiences. For me, that level of opportunity became a clear benchmark for what is possible…that set me up to play this role in pushing for change that helps get those without access a little closer. The idealist in me continues to push for systemic transformational change while still acknowledging that even incremental movement can show up as life changing in the lives of individual people for whom impediments are removed.”

Henry’s innovative approach to social and economic challenges of our time and his global perspective on the value and role of education inspires in Choate Rosemary Hall students and alumni the kind of change-making leadership made possible, in part, by a Choate Rosemary Hall education.

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CLASSNOTES | News from our Alumni

BULLETIN | FALL 2021 25

Send Us Your Notes!

Do you have news to share with your classmates?

We’d love to hear from you. Submit your news and photos online at www.choate.edu/classnotes. When submitting photos, please make sure the resolution is high enough for print publication – 300 dpi preferred. To update your alumni records contact Christine Bennett at alumnirelations@choate.edu or (203) 697-2228.

26 CLASSNOTES

1940s ’49 C

William Plauth writes, “I lost my wife two years ago and since then I have been ‘looked after’ (exceedingly well) by our daughter, her husband, four young grandchildren (12-24 years old) and three cats – here in Stanford, Calif. Henry Blodget sent me a photo of the two of us from December 2019 when he came to Stanford from San Francisco. We had a happy luncheon. We’ve been good friends for some 74 years now. He was our best man, and I am his son’s godfather.”

1950s ’50 C

Jay Davis writes, “Hello from Sarasota, Fla. I was hoping to make the 70th, but the pandemic got in the way. Maybe the 75th? My four years at Choate are a good memory – especially the 5–1 football season in my senior year as left tackle.”

’52 C

Phillip Goodwin writes, “While I have never been one to submit things to the Bulletin, I could not resist this time after reading Miguel Suarez’s comments in the most recent issue. Mickey, as he was known at the time, was one of my freshman year roommates in 1948 in the Choate House. I don’t recall him having a mustache at that time, but it suits him very well. I have to congratulate Miguel for beating me in the number of years married. He comes up with 63 years while my wife, Dinny, and I come up with only 60, having been married on December 10, 1960. We retired in 1995 to Cape Cod, and in spite of being somewhat restricted by our minor health problems, we enjoy everything the Cape has to offer.

I should also add that my two sons, Christopher ’81 and Scott ’83, both attended Choate for two years.

They’re both doing very well.”

Phillip Goodwin ’52 and wife Dinny.

Vansel Johnson writes, “I have now been living seven years on the shores of Lake Chapala, Mexico. It has been a blessed time, with my wife and me building a house overlooking the lake with the surrounding mountains. Since my wife, who is also a trained ballet dancer, and I love dance, we have found the perfect place where we have continuing ballet lessons and many night clubs with live dance music in the place where we live. Our yoga classes keep us fit and when we have time we take our horses for a long trail ride.”

’53 C

Thomas Clements writes, “I’m happy to report that both my wife, Kitty, and I remain in good health and actively participate in a multitude of Key West activities. I finally retired from the Friends of the KW Library after 27 years as Treasurer but continue on the boards of other organizations. We head up to Blue Hill, Maine from June to October to avoid hurricane season and usually squeeze in a riverboat trip during the June trip north. This year, we’re heading west for a Puget Sound and San Juan Islands cruise.”

’54 C

Jenk Jones writes, “After writing and photo travels to all seven continents, more than 100 countries and multiple times to every state, infirmity has slowed me. Still, I’ve run 32 day trips featuring the scenery, history, and wildlife of northeastern Oklahoma for a seniors home (from July 2020 to April 2021), with more scheduled. I’m on the state board of The Nature Conservancy and have done three books for it.”

February. It’s a must read if you are interested in why the new boats are foiling. I finished a novel that should be out this fall about a confused young man who has suffered at the hands of a bad dad, and who the dad forces to go on the round-the-world race.

Having been vaccinated, Kippy and I have survived the quarantine here in Oxford, Md.”

’56 C

Oliver Cook writes, “Our last dog, Samson, died in June 2019, a month short of age 13. Because we’ve always had dogs, the search was on for another rescue mutt. My wife spent hours on PetFinder.com, and found some possibilities. We adopted Brent, a 75-pound yellow Lab-cattle dog mix.”

Jay Hawley writes, “After 64 years since Choate, my greatest treasures are my wife, Janet, of 60 years and three well grown daughters and their families. I graduated in agriculture from Penn State in 1960, was in the Army for two years and the State Department Foreign Service for 25 years. We served in Washington, Guatemala, Adelaide, (Australia), Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, India, and the Dominican Republic. Many interesting times, some crises, but we enjoyed those years. After retirement in 1987, I worked with our family investment corporation, moving commercial real estate projects from my hometown, Wheeling W. Va., to Pittsburgh and Atlanta.”

’57 C

Carlos Hellmund writes, “I recently participated in a PhotoESPAÑA exhibit with 200 worldwide photographers in Madrid. It was my 40th photo exhibit: before in Japan, Colombia, Venezuela, and the USA. I also had a photo exhibit at the Choate campus during Alumni weekend.”

Roger Vaughan writes, “My latest book, Learning To Fly, about the 2010 America’s Cup – a missing piece of Cup history – was published in

Steve “Smokey” Gilford writes, “The COVID cloud had a slim silver lining. It gave me time to practice the autoharp, a 36-string zither, a descendent of the usually out-of-tune instrument found in grade schools. I play it and a few other folk-style instruments in two groups, Jam Nation and Homemade Jam. Jam Nation plays at retirement homes and assisted living facilities in the San Francisco North Bay region. The places that can’t pay, we don’t charge. The money we do collect, we donate to the school music programs here in Sonoma County. I rarely think of it, but I am the oldest member in either group and older than a lot of the people we play for.”

Wedding photo of Miguel Suarez ’52 and wife Yolanda from April 1957. They recently celebrated 64 years of marriage.

Oliver Cook ’56 and his dog Lionel following services at St. John’s Church, Beverly Farms, Mass.

’55 C

BULLETIN | FALL 2021 27

Peter Sipple writes, “Nearly 65 years after leaving Choate, I remain grateful for the role it played in my education, preparing me to follow up at Yale, Harvard, and UC Berkeley, where I earned a Ph.D. in educational administration. Over the next 30 years I taught at Wellesley College, then headed three Church-related independent schools. One of them, Salisbury, included Seymour St. John on its board; it was a joy for Margaret and me to host Seymour and Peggy in our home. Ordained in the Episcopal Church, I served as rector of a parish in Bryn Mawr, Pa., after leaving school work, and still assist in churches in our part of Connecticut. Our daughter and son are both in education, as are their spouses, so family chats tend to focus on life in schools. Classmate Art Trotman and I continue to hold common interests and goals.”

’58 C

Wells Doty writes, “I graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1962, served on six destroyers, a minesweeper, and an amphibious assault ship, including one year with an Army advisory team in Vietnam. After retirement, I earned my doctorate at Clemson, and taught there, at Limestone College, Southern Wesleyan University, and Southern Illinois University. I finally retired in 2019.”

’58 RH Sally Barnes Sonne writes, “Classmate Gerry Atwell Dromeshauser visits Jane McKeone Gleason ’59 annually in South Carolina to catch up, eat by the seashore, and watch the Masters Golf Tournament together. I was nearby on the PeeDee River for my annual trip during the spring turkey hunting season. The three of us met for lunch at Pawley’s Island. What a delight!”

’59 C Bill Bryant is still playing great tennis. He just won the 80-and-over men’s doubles tennis championship at The Moorings Club in Vero Beach, Fla.

Mike Harris writes, “My passion is photographing people and the cultures in which they live.

I am now printing a 160-page book of my work. Visit my website mikeharrisphotography.com for more information.”

Frank “Pags” Pagliaro writes, “With the COVID overlay, my wife and I have not been able to do any traveling with the exception of skiing in the Sierras. We actually came back from a trip to China one week before the COVID problem was realized there; I continue to practice law in both California and New York though I am planning a grand exit toward the end of this year. My main contact with Choate involves Scotty Whitlock and myself trading humorous emails. We welcome other participants.”

’61 C Forrest Jones writes, “My oldest son and his wife both have interesting jobs in film production in LA, and they have provided me with a bright and outrageously cute granddaughter, now 13, and an endearingly unconventional 11-year-old grandson who since he was a toddler has always completed LEGO sets designed for much older kids. My youngest son has a Ph.D. in seismic engineering. A number of high-profile buildings in San Francisco, Oakland, and Beverly Hills have kept me busy.”

1960s

’61 RH Judith Banzhaf Kruse writes, “I remain active in music, although the virus has limited many programs. Our bell choir and our chancel choir were part of a television broadcast on Easter. I continue my attempts to master classical guitar, but so far it’s still winning! I do play it to supply music for our church’s daily devotionals. I am also part of a mask-making group, which has donated about 20,000 masks to our area, of which I have contributed about 1,100.”

Sue Bristoll Sayles writes, “Our youngest grandchild graduated from high school in June. Two are out of college, two are in college, and the youngest is heading off to college. And I’m 39 and holding. I still work for the school system, and love my job.”

’60 C Jotham “Jo” Johnson writes, “I regretted not having a chance to return to Wallingford last May to celebrate the Class of 1960’s 60th Reunion. Gracie and I will certainly be looking for opportunities to return to the Wallingford campus for other occasions in the future. I’m happy to report, though, that I have regular – and I mean regular – communications with my Choate classmate Jamie Lockhart, who grew up in Geneseo, N.Y., south of Rochester, and continues to live in Geneseo after having spent more than a few years after attendance at Cornell in Europe.

We remain the best of friends and catch up on the phone every week or two. After Choate, I earned my A.B. degree at Princeton in Romance Languages and European Studies, then served in the Marine Corps for several years, before ultimately returning to Princeton as a member of the administrative staff in admissions, student life, and development where I ultimately served as Director of Leadership Gifts pretty much until my retirement in 2010. Gracie and I continue to live in the village of Blawenburg, N.J., just outside of Princeton. We have three grown, healthy and successful kids, two of whom attended Deerfield and one who attended Lawrenceville, all of whom are getting along fine.”

’62 C

Deaver Brown writes, “One of the advantages of sitting at different Dining Hall tables every two weeks was getting to know different masters and learning a lot out of the classroom. I discovered the mystery writer Emma Lathen this way with her first book, Banking on Death, in late 1961. The NYT called her the American Agatha Christie and Nero Wolfe with Portfolio. WSJ called her the Agatha Christie of Wall Street. I shared my copy with Mr. Porter, Mr. Burgess Ayers, and Mr. Stillman. They all liked it. Fiftyfive years later, my company, www.simplymedia.com, picked up the publishing rights, and it flourished in the pandemic. Wouldn’t have happened without Choate’s table rotations.”

Bill Bryant ’59 recently won the 80-and-over men’s doubles tennis championship at The Moorings Club in Vero Beach, Fla.

RH Class of ’61 – Anne Marshall Henry, Susie Mountrey, and Jessica Loring celebrate no masks – at last!

Judith Banzhaf Kruse ’61 is part of a mask-making group that donated about 20,000 masks to her area, of which she contributed nearly 1,100. She is pictured here on her mother’s 1938 Singer.

28 CLASSNOTES

1 Jessie Gaston ’69 retired in

August 2020 from California State University, Sacramento, as a Professor of African and World History.

2 Vickie Spang ’69 posing

near a custom hot rod in LA – “vintage, but still working – just like me!”

1

2

3

3 Wyncia (Wink) Thenebe

Clute RH ’69 shares an oil painting, titled Floating Island.

4 Alan Brown ’64 and wife

Suzanne recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. Pictured here, in Hanalei Kauai on January 15, 1971.

5 1964 Choate varsity

hockey team – Jeff Gould, Curt Tobey, Dan Rugg, Jim Baldassari ’66.

5

4

BULLETIN | FALL 2021 29

John Wilkes writes, “As you can probably guess, Steve Gilhuley, Parker Llewellyn, Bill Chapin, and I have already started to put our heads together about next year’s 60th (please God) nonvirtual Reunion. Ideas have started to fly to make this Reunion one for the ages. We can use all the help we can get. So, if you would like to join our tiny Committee, just drop me a line at fjw84@aol.com.”

’63 C

John Calfee, Jr. writes, “After a year of enforced idleness, at least as far as trips are concerned, Andrea and I are now venturing out of Tennessee. In May, we were in Cleveland, visiting our daughter, son-in-law, and their two children. In July, we were in Kansas City watching our granddaughter perform at the Kansas City Ballet’s Summer School as well as attending a Celebration of Life for one of Andrea’s close high school buddies in Greenwich, Conn. In September, we hope to be in Buffalo, N.Y., attending my USN ship reunion.”

’63 RH Alice Chaffee Freeman writes, “I have a new website: alicefreeman.net, showing cartoons and some paintings. I’m trying to keep up my language skills with Zoom groups in French and Spanish, and reading (on my own) in Italian. Also enjoying two painting groups and the occasional collage workshop (also via Zoom).”

Jean McBee Knox writes, “We’ll be spending more time with our daughter Elizabeth in Massachusetts come September. I’ve reconnected with my Boston poetry and book groups and continue to volunteer for a winter book review series, for the Sandwich Conservation Commission, and on the board of a fine craft gallery.”

Chris Murray McKee writes, “I volunteer at the assisted living facility here and was included in an early round of shots. What a feeling! After that we hopped in the car and drove to Ohio where Rachel and her family are. We hadn’t seen them in 15 months. It was wonderful.”

Margo Melton Nutt writes, “Thank goodness for Zoom. Continuing to do Zoom church, Zoom yoga, Zoom adult-ed classes through Dartmouth, as well as tapping into virtual lectures, author readings, concerts, library board meetings, and webinars. I’ve gotten lots of interesting online programs from places like the Boston Athenaeum, N.H. and Vermont Humanities Councils, local bookstores, Dartmouth, and from England via the Royal Oak Foundation (the American arm of the National Trust).”

’64 C Jeff Gould writes, “On St. Patrick’s Day, we had a great Luncheon Reunion reliving our 1964 Choate hockey season and Coach Pudvah in Punta Gorda, Fla. Catching up was just the best. Needless to say, we left our equipment behind but the stories and memories will live on forever.”

’64 RH Eveline Kraus Rauber writes, “After RH, I graduated from Goucher College, married my husband Jacques, and moved to Zürich, where I have lived ever since. We had four children and now have seven grandchildren. Our eldest and youngest live in London and the other two are close by to our home. I still am teaching English to senior women’s groups.”

’67 RH Terry Schaefer Severance writes, “Our 50th

’65 C Peter Schaeffer writes, “A committee of the Class of 1965, chaired by Chris Meyer, has developed an ongoing series of Zoom casual conversations. Bob Santulli got us started in January with a wonderful presentation, ‘Nearing 75: Preserving Memory As We Age.’ Tom Courage and Rob Simpson coaxed Tom Yankus to reminisce about his wonderful ‘Montana Summer’. Clif Leonhardt entertained us with a well researched and illustrated analysis of ‘JFK at Choate’.

Psychiatrist Steve Lamb talked about the ‘Opioid Crisis’. If you are interested in joining us, please contact Chris Meyer at Chris@centrestent.com to be added to the invitation list.”

’69 C Greg Hooker writes, “I’ve come out of retirement to join the Radio Vermont Group as host of the weekday afternoon music show, The Getaway, on WDEV FM & AM. It’s very part-time, but just enough to get me out of the house and keep me engaged with the great new music being made. The focus is Americana music and we’re streaming at WDEVradio.com.”

’65 RH Abigail Erdmann writes, “As we roll into our second year of the pandemic, I find myself adapting to the new reality while holding hope for a return to normal. We spent January and February in Guanacaste, Costa Rica where we had lived five years ago. The pandemic seemed quite remote as we strolled on the beach and ate meals in outdoor restaurants.” ’66 C James Baldassari writes, ”I’m retired now for a couple of years, living in Punta Gorda, Fla. Lots of pickle ball, tennis, golf, boating, and fishing. Had the wonderful experience of reuniting with Choate teammates from the Class of ’64. The Red Line, Jeff Gould, Curt Toby, and me. Dan Rugg, our stellar defenseman, attended as well. Great to see these teammates and revisit some of those wonderful experiences we had playing for the ‘Vah!” ’66 RH Judy Donald writes, “At the end of June, I retired as school archivist at Choate Rosemary Hall.

For 20 years I had the joy of learning a lot about our Schools and hopefully passing along some of that history to others.”

Edwina von Gal writes, “This spring I launched a new initiative called Two Thirds for The Birds. It is a call to action to make every property ecologically functional by planting two native plants for every three and swearing off pesticides: www.234birds.org. I would love all of you, and the Choate Rosemary Hall campus, to join in.”

Reunion a few years ago was a gift – reconnected with many wonderful classmates – and would love to see more. My husband, Bruce, and I live in South Dartmouth, Mass. and Rumson, N.J.; we have four sons and seven grandchildren and are grateful, active, and happy.”

’69 RH Jessie Gaston writes, “I officially retired in August 2020 from California State University, Sacramento, History Department as Professor of African and World History.”

Vickie Spang writes, “I am still working from home, but that should end soon. Then, back to the 950-attorney law firm I go, where I’m CMO.”

Vernon Glenn ’68 just released his second book, You Have Your Way. He’s started on his third, Slim and None.

As Al Potter ’67 approached retirement, he and his wife, Linda, found ways to make a lasting impact at organizations that are meaningful to them.

A Sense of Joy in Giving Philanthropy and stewardship have long been important to my wife and me. Along with our church and various charitable causes that are meaningful to us, including Choate in our annual giving plans provided me with a sense of satisfaction, and formed a closer tie with Choate for well over five decades. Indeed, as I think back on it, the values I learned during my time at Choate were formative in making a commitment to philanthropy so important to me.

Our philanthropic strategy has focused on organizations that we feel can really make a positive impact. It has always been easy to include Choate in that vision, as I considered the significant imprint that my four years at Choate had on my life, and how the school continues to positively form the lives of students of today and future generations.

When you feel good about giving to an institution that does so much good, it can be a lot of fun. For us, there is a sense of joy in giving.

As I approached planning for retirement a few years ago, when my annual income would obviously drop, I looked for a way to reassess our giving strategy and to make a more lasting philanthropic

Al Potter ’67

impact with Choate and a few other organizations that I am close to. After considering various options, the answer that served our needs best was relatively simple. I set up a straightforward bequest provision in my estate documents that includes Choate as a beneficiary of a specified amount upon my death. Although it will realistically mean only a fairly modest impact on my assets, I realized that making a legacy gift was a fulfilling way for me to make a more meaningful statement of what Choate has meant to me over the course of my life. And it was an easy thing to do – just a quick phone call to our attorney, a simple codicil to my living trust, and all done! More importantly, this step provided me with a painless and easy way to feel even closer to Choate.

I hope that other alumni may also feel inclined to consider how a legacy gift to Choate may help fulfill their philanthropic goals, and to join the Choate Society. Collectively, we can make a significant and lasting impact on the educational institution that has been so formative in providing a framework for the lives we have been fortunate enough to lead.

Join the Choate Society today.

THE WILLIAM GARDNER & MARY ATWATER CHOATE SOCIETY Named for the founders of both Rosemary Hall and The Choate School, the Choate Society honors individuals who have remembered the School in their estate plans. With more than 500 members, the Choate Society represents a substantial investment in future generations. For more information, please contact Marc J. Belanger, CFRE, Senior Leadership Gift Officer at (203) 697-2655 or mbelanger@choate.edu.

BULLETIN | FALL 2021 31

1970s ’70 C

Eliot Clauss writes, “I have ended my fulltime law practice after 43 years. I plan to write for my website, www.scnpolitics.com, and other publications and politicians, while splitting my time among homes in New York City, Sarasota, and Shanghai.”

Hank Randall writes, “I retired in February 2020 after 42 years as a professional photographer, the first 10 at a newspaper, then 32 years freelance.

My wife, Kassie, retired as a school librarian at the beginning of 2021, and we’re spending a lot of time with our 18-month-old granddaughter.”

’71 RH Dorothy Heyl writes, “I have been spending the pandemic in Hudson, N.Y., with my husband, Tom, and dog, Sparky. I’m working remotely as compliance officer and general counsel at Prima Capital Advisors, and have enjoyed serving as chair of the Real Property Law Committee of the New York City Bar Association and starting up a friends group to reclaim a public square in Hudson from years of neglect, overenthusiastic pruning and ruptured asphalt paths. My daughter, Regina Heyl DePietro ’07, recently welcomed identical twin girls, who, together with their big brother Henry, give us great pleasure.”

’72 C

Robert Weeden writes, “Susan and I recently moved to Savannah to be closer to family. I retired from investment management in Boston but I still serve as Chairman of Investments at the Weeden Foundation (family conservation charity). Both of our daughters live in Oregon.”

’73 RH Merily Hendrickson McLaughlin writes, “I retired after 32 years in banking and 10 years in social work (my second career). Our daughter Kristin and her husband had a baby girl, Adelaide, as the lockdown in NYC began, March, 2020. We ended up as Adelaide’s daycare when Kristin, an emergency veterinarian, returned to work.”

’75 C

James Hitselberger writes, “I have been living in Ontonagon, Mich., since 2007, in the western upper peninsula of Michigan close to Duluth, Minn., on the shore of Lake Superior.”

’75 RH Katie Ewald writes, “Where are my Colorado classmates? I just moved to Carbondale! Living large on the bikes and skis here and in the desert. I’m looking forward to our 50th in 2025.” ’76 C

James Olcott writes, “My new book is a technical manual from SAP Press so the potential audience will be limited to those in the SAP software eco-system. Still, I had fun writing it over the COVID summer, fall, and winter.”

’76 RH Leslie Atkinson writes, “Living in Valencia, Spain, still and loving it. Come visit if you’re in the neighborhood!”

Lisa Helme Danforth writes, “We were in the middle of the South Pacific when COVID hit last March, and decided to quarantine in our apartment in Johns Island, Vero Beach, Fla. Since then, it’s been an amazing reunion-fest of Choate friends.

George Lowther introduced us to Island House. We’ve

reconnected with Bob Habgood ’78 and Josh Shipley, and run into Choaties we didn’t know well at school, but have become friends. Considering launching a Vero Beach Choate Rosemary Hall chapter!”

’78

Anne Levine writes, “The 14th anniversary of my show on WOMR-FM 92.1 Cape Cod was broadcast Memorial Day weekend. My husband, Michael, and I live in Dennis, where we write and produce the weekly talk show. Eight different poetry magazines currently feature my work. My inspriration for getting back into poetry was ignited when I came across a box full of poems I wrote at Choate Rosemary Hall and Sarah Lawrence College. The Question Mark, The Lit, and InChoate were the first publications to print my work. I am in close contact with Jon Baker and in touch with dozens of classmates on Facebook and Instagram.”

Philip Squattrito writes, “I have survived a year of teaching general chemistry online. As a chemist, I had never contemplated online education before but creating recorded instructional materials and conducting live classes online (on WebEx, or as I call it, the Squattrito Broadcasting System) has been the biggest learning experience of my more than 30-year career at Central Michigan University.

Although the online format doesn’t suit all learners and presents challenges for engagement (with 60100 students on average attending a class) compared to being together in the classroom, I have embraced it with enthusiasm and enjoyment. I do look forward, though, to being back in a lecture hall with 100 or more unmasked college students again soon.”

’79 C

In April, Ambassador Victoria Nuland ’79 was sworn in as Under Secretary for Political Affairs, another step in a dedicated career path of service to the United States. After receiving her Bachelor of Arts in history from Brown University, Nuland, a U.S. diplomat for over 30 years, went on to serve several roles for the U.S. Department of State, including the Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs, State Department Spokesperson, U.S. Ambassador to NATO, and Deputy National Security Advisor to Vice President Cheney. She was a 2012 recipient of the Choate Alumni Prize.

Anne Levine ’78 and husband Michael write and produce The Anne Levine Show. Photo

by Orchard Cove Photography for The New York Times.

32

CLASSNOTES | Q&A

STARTING IN EARLY 1920, CHARLES PONZI SWINDLED thousands of Americans with the

TALKING THE TALK with Jim Campbell ’73 By jonas akins

promise of immense returns (double your money in 90 days!) from an arbitrage scheme involving international postal reply coupons, forever tainting his family name. While Bernie Madoff’s pitch, which began half a century later, was slightly less exotic, promising annual returns of 10–12 percent, the end result was no less disastrous for the victims. Jim Campbell ’73 has written a masterful account of the most famous investment fraud since Ponzi’s scheme fell apart. Campbell is particularly well-qualified to tease out the details and capture the breadth and depth of Madoff’s fraud. With experience gained while working for KPMG, Dean Witter, and IBM, Campbell currently hosts two nationally-syndicated radio shows, “Business Talk” and “Forensic Talk,” that have explored financial malfeasance, including interviews with Dennis Kozlowski of Tyco infamy and Roomy Khan, a key informant in the Galleon insider trading scandal.

Many people have written about the Madoff fraud, but none have done so as completely, or as persuasively, as Campbell. Earlier works, including Diana B. Henriques’s The Wizard of Lies and Eugene Soltes’s Why They Do It (for which I was a research assistant while in business school) have captured many of the facts of the matter, but Madoff Talks – particularly because Campbell was able to gain the confidence of both Bernie himself and family members and associates – explores the whole tableau of the firm and the fraud, which were largely inseparable. Based on interviews with, and hundreds of pages of emails and letters from, Bernie himself, interviews with his wife Ruth and son Andrew, conversations with longtime Madoff secretary Eleanor Squillari, and a close reading of the 15,000 pages of transcripts from the criminal trials of Madoff’s associates, Campbell is able to take the reader inside the operations of the Madoff offices. With an ear for artful phrasing and the pacing of a thriller (which is fitting, as the Madoff story has been given the movie treatment by HBO, the miniseries treatment by ABC, and there are rumors of a Netflix deal for Madoff Talks), the author presents the many characters in this tragedy with a full measure of complexity.

In early June, I had the chance to chat with Jim on a webinar hosted by the Alumni Office. Excerpts of our fascinating conversation are found on the next page.

33

JONAS AKINS: You’ve done a huge amount of broad and deep research for this book, with many of the most revealing insights coming from your ongoing conversations with the man on the cover. Why was Bernie so willing to engage with you, including permitting conversations with family members and close associates?

JIM CAMPBELL ’73: I told Bernie this was his chance to talk to history, but I would vet everything he said. He accepted the terms.

I think Bernie thought he could convince (con) me to tell his story as the custodian of his legacy … though it didn’t work out that way for him. He was obsessed with preserving his image as running a clean and successful market-making business; and that his investment strategy was legitimate, even as he’d add the caveat admitting he wasn’t actually trading. He also wanted to clear the names of Ruth, Mark, and Andrew. He would express this as his main objective, but his obsession to rationalize his story always overwhelmed his need to restore his wife and sons’ integrity.

JA: James Surowiecki ’84, writing about Madoff’s death and the

recent rise in cryptocurrencies and non-fungible tokens, noted that “As long as you can keep new investors coming in and old ones from cashing out, you can make an illusion seem real. And that, as it turns out, is the same idea that has animated a host of speculative frenzies in the past year.” In the last chapter of the book, you lay out a convincing argument for a number of changes in our regulatory approach, including substantial changes to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Securities Investor Protection Corporation, and Financial Industry Regulatory Authority. Are we any more protected from a fraud like Madoff’s now than we were 13 years ago?

JC: Wall Street tends to repeat history. The SEC is better equipped

to handle Ponzi schemes, but they are not a “cop on the beat.” They come in after the bad behavior and clean up the mess. The recent meltdown of the hedge fund Archegos, which caused losses to cascade through Wall Street banks, revealed, in that case, that Family Offices are completely non-transparent and largely unregulated.

JA: The story that most people have heard revolves around the early

1990s, but you conclude that it was much earlier than that. Where and how did it really start?

JC: I believe the forensic evidence reveals that he wasn’t trading

as far back as the early 1970s. His expertise then was convertibles – fixed income instruments that had a conversion to equity feature. It turned out he was often “trading” more than the entire market; or the prices didn’t match the range of the trade date; or the conversion had already occurred, meaning they weren’t even available to trade.

Underlying this was a complete psychological inability to accept losses. His successful market-making business earned commissions whether the market was up or down. That fit his compartmentalized psyche well. He started managing money for 24 friends and families and found he could face losses on trades. He was mortified, in his own words, and once he realized he could not control losing on some positions he just stopped trading and made it up. His customers soon learned, there were no losses with Bernie.

In one of the more baffling quotes from an email sent to Campbell, Madoff writes, “Jim, this certainly sounds strange coming from me, but I was a constant critic of Wall Street. I was a product of the corrupt culture of Wall Street.” That ability to compartmentalize his actions and shift responsibility for them is one of the key reasons that regulation is such a large focus in Madoff Talks. In addition to their clear failure to oversee the “investments” offered by Bernard L. Madoff Investment Securities, all of the regulators fumbled away chances to investigate the firm and its fraud, mishandling multiple whistleblower and concerned investors’ complaints through the years.

Campbell concludes with the very important point that it is only systemic reform that will meaningfully address the “regulatory capture, bureaucratic silos, plain incompetence, and outsized greed” that permitted the scheme to grow as large, and go on as long, as it did. It is in all of our interests to ensure that such reform is undertaken, in order to prevent another Madoff, or something even worse.

JA: One of the themes throughout the book is systemic failure of the

regulators, both before and after the fraud was discovered. Even though the sons did turn their father in, is there a chance that the fraud could have continued, had they chosen not to pick up the phone to call the FBI?

Jonas Akins is a member of Choate Rosemary Hall’s History, Philosophy, Religion, and Social Sciences Department. For a full recording of their conversation, go to: www.choate.edu/alumni/reunion.

JC: It’s more likely the fraud could have continued if the financial

crash of 2008 had not occurred. Even if the sons had chosen to cover-up, he would have run out of money by the end of December 2008 (actually right before Christmas). Absent the crash, he could well still be in business today. I calculated that the returns he was faking could have reached $240 billion.

Jim Campbell’s Madoff Talks is available on Amazon.

34

CLASSNOTES | Profile

Woo Welch Caroland

’76

The Camaraderie of Cosmetics Woo Welch Caroland ’76 attributes much of the entrepreneurial spirit with which she founded Woo Skincare and Cosmetics, a top-of-the-line spa, makeup, and skincare retail shop in Nashville, to the “Texas frontier attitude” instilled by her father, architect Frank Welch. And it was her experience of heading to Rosemary Hall from “oil country,” Midland, Texas, that bolstered a wellspring of strength and bravery to dive into new ventures and overcome obstacles. “Things that are the scariest in life are the ones often best for you to pursue,” she summarizes.

“Rosemary Hall gave me a much greater worldview,” Woo says, noting that she transferred in for her fifth and sixth form years. “Coming from West Texas it was quite a contrast; there were all these very worldly girls from New York and LA … but it was life-altering. It gave me a source of courage that I’ve had ever since.” She adds that the bold modernism of I.M. Pei’s Paul Mellon Arts Center, and its contrast with the traditional architecture in the area, was a great influence.

Coupled with her previous exposure to the arts by her parents, Woo’s experiences led to a degree in art history at New York University, where she gained an appreciation for how art and architecture affect everyday life.

She worked in art galleries in New York City, including Marlborough Gallery on 57th Street, and in the art department at Vanity Fair. Later, she and her husband, Clay, decided to return to their southern roots and settled with their children in Nashville.

After ten years immersed in the art and publishing fields of New York, Woo knew she wanted to continue expanding her career, but now she would need to work within the comparatively limited cultural landscape of Nashville. A neighbor convinced her to try to open a Chanel cosmetics department at the legendary Harry B’s boutique in Nashville. “My response was, ‘I really don’t even wear makeup; I don’t know anything about it!’” Noting that Chanel is exceedingly selective in opening new boutiques, Woo says, “This was a challenge. I knew I ‘couldn’t’ do it, so, naturally, that made me more determined to do it.”

Fortified with her experiences in the Northeast and a love for the extraordinary boutique shopping experiences of stores such as Neiman Marcus, Barney’s, and Bergdorf Goodman, what followed was a two-year, all-out venture to convince Chanel that Woo had the talent, drive, and eye for detail needed to make the exclusive line a success.

And, of course, she did.

After conquering the high-end cosmetics field, it was time to build on her success in wooing Chanel to Nashville, widen her horizons, and set out on her own. As she had earlier – heading to Choate and later New York – Woo marshalled up her frontier attitude, (be strong, do it!) and muscled through. She was now able to engage her knowledge of how architecture affects each individual as they encounter a space. She recalls one of her “a-ha” moments, during which she remembered her first trip to Rockefeller Center in the early ’80s and discovering the architect had designed the floors to subtly slope downward, drawing visitors into the room. “That had a huge impact on me,” she says. “I was, and still am, fascinated by the idea that you can design a space that affects a person’s emotional and physical response.”

Free to create her own surroundings using all facets of her artistic expression, Woo collaborated with her father on the interior design of the Nashville store. “It’s about setting the stage,” she says. “I wanted to create something that would take your breath away when you walk in the door.” From the floor plan and traffic flow to the lighting, the two created an ambience to surprise and delight shoppers as they enter and move about the store.

Since opening Woo Skincare and Cosmetics in Nashville in 1992, the business has added three more stores – two in Atlanta and one in Charlotte. Woo is determined to keep the chain small and intimate, where shopping is personal, fun, and relaxing, and to stay active in their operations. “Retirement is not in my DNA,” she quips. “I love to work; every day is different,” she says.

“I’m not selling Picassos, I’m selling lipsticks, and while that sounds simple it’s important to understand what’s behind it.” She explains that the value of creating such an inviting, supportive atmosphere for women became ever clearer as Nashville began to emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic. “Women will say, ‘I haven’t yet been to the grocery store, but I wanted to come here because it makes me feel good.’ This is about so much more than cosmetics – that kind of support and camaraderie is so important.”

BY Julie Winkel Julie Winkel is a freelance writer and publicist in Connecticut.

BULLETIN | FALL 2021 35

CLASSNOTES | Profile

THE THRILL of THE PITCH

’81

Georgine Anton

Veteran digital marketing executive Georgine Anton has a reputation that precedes her. Never be late for a meeting with her, employees warn new hires.

Make sure you’re prepared. Anton, who has been recognized by her industry as one of the “Top Women in Media” and “Marketer of the Year,” acknowledges that she runs a tight ship – but with an emphasis on fostering positive, productive working relationships. “I believe in a kind, but disciplined, environment,” she says. Much of her time is devoted to coordinating teams with specialists in such areas as data analysis, technical systems, and creative development.

“I want to build teams that respect each other’s areas of expertise,” she says.

It’s an approach that has served Anton well for more than two decades. She is the former president of Meredith Xcelerated Marketing, known as MXM, and the current managing director of creative marketing services at Accenture, a global professional services firm with half a million employees, which acquired MXM in 2018. Over the years Anton has helped clients in a diverse array of industries – automakers, financial services corporations, iconic food brands – to reach their audiences through constantly evolving marketing channels and media. She is proud to say that her agency was a pioneer of early efforts at digital profile management. “We were doing social media before there was even Facebook!” she says. She and her teams continue to be early adopters of the latest platforms, whether TikTok or the up-and-coming Clubhouse, which allows for both text and voice interactions.

Fundamentally, Anton seeks to help transform both how her clients do business and how they market. She notes that the increasing reliance on ecommerce is a trend that COVID-19 has only accelerated: “With the pandemic, the future came to us faster than we ever expected. Expectations that Amazon set years ago apply to all of us now.”

Anton grew up in a small town in Pennsylvania, where her parents owned a Greek diner. Choate, she says, opened the world to her with its international and diverse student body, and her experiences helped her develop self-confidence. “If I had not gone to Choate my life would be very different,” she says.

Earning her bachelor’s degree from St. Lawrence University, she complemented her liberal arts education with an M.B.A from New York University.

At the start of her career Anton was focused on client development, often making presentations to win business for her agency. (She describes beating out other firms with a winning pitch as “one of the best feelings ever.”) Then came the fateful Kraft Foods pitch of 2006. With eight agencies in the running, it went on for several months, requiring multiple presentations as the field was whittled down to four and, finally, two competitors. Anton was working at home on that particular Friday morning when the call came in. Kraft said yes to MXM but stipulated that they wanted Anton herself to stay on the account.

It was a turning point for her, and she pivoted to client management, going on to become MXM’s chief client officer and ultimately the president of the company.

She says, “It was one of the best wins ever, and it changed the direction of my career.”

The thrill of pitching and winning notwithstanding, Anton says that her professional relationships are the most gratifying aspect of her work. The clients with whom she has collaborated for 20 years mean a great deal to her, as do the employees who have written personal notes to thank her for her support. “The rewarding part is the people part,” she says.

Anton takes a special interest in mentoring younger professionals as they plan and build their careers. In particular, she is motivated to advise women in the business who may not be earning equitable salaries or receiving the credit they are entitled to. “At the very least I want to help women to ask for what they deserve,” she says.

Her advice for anyone starting in the field is to do all they can to understand how to create great customer experiences. “Brands are built today through the quality of the customer experience, so it is very important to understand the end-to-end experience,” she says. Newcomers should also develop a deep understanding of marketing technology and how brands can incorporate e-commerce into their business models. As for women in business, she encourages them to be more confident: “I want to tell them to go for it.”

BY Leslie virostek Leslie Virostek is a freelance writer and frequent contributor to the Bulletin.

36 CLASSNOTES

’84

“Fifth form East Cottage housemate Bob Tung and I got together for lunch in Nashville. We picked up right where we left off on graduation day, as if time had stood still.”–DENNIS ALPERT ’84

1980s ’80 Michael Lewyn writes, “I am running for Manhattan Borough President with the endorsement of the Libertarian Party; my campaign webpage is at lewynformanhattan.com.”

Jim Sherman writes, “I spent the last year of the pandemic in Bellport, Long Island. I never expected to spend so much time outside my Manhattan apartment, but it has proven to be great. I am keen to get back to traveling – planning for Corsica.” ’81

Tom Colt writes, “I’ve been living in China for the past four years, working at Shanghai American School Puxi as a college counselor. Life in Shanghai has been extraordinarily normal and COVID-free during the past year with only a few measures in place – masks required on public transportation, green health code needed for entry into places, etc.

My wife, Megan, and I have been able to travel extensively around China during the past eight months.

We’ve been to Xi’an to see the terracotta warriors, the Yunnan Valley, the Avatar Mountains of Zhangjiajie, the Great Wall (for a hiking and camping trip), and the Shaolin Monastery (birthplace of kung fu).”

Leslie Gallagher has been featured in an article in Shoutout LA in an article titled ”Meet Leslie Gallagher | CEO of Two Hands Four Paws, Inc.”

John Kremer writes, “I’m really happy to have been able to connect recently with Falkie, Kirchner, Mr. Layton, Andy Sulavik, and John Kerbs.”

’82

John Milliman writes, “I wrapped up a 34year career in the Marine Corps and the Department of the Navy when I retired last January from the U.S. Naval Air Warfare Center – Aircraft Division at NAS Patuxent River. Peggy and I recently celebrated our 32nd anniversary. I spend my time now teaching my grandchildren, some of whom live next door, to fish and sail on the lower Potomac River and the Chesapeake Bay. Have run into Dave Eccles ’83 a lot here.”

’83

Libby Wood Cassat writes, “I have started an

oyster farm! My sister and I are now proud owners of Grace Pointe Oyster Farm, located in the clean, clear waters of Casco Bay in Cumberland, Maine. I encourage anyone interested in learning more about aquaculture, and our farm in particular, to check us out.”

’84 Dennis Alpert writes, “Fifth form East Cottage housemate Bob Tung and I got together for lunch in Nashville. We picked up right where we left off on graduation day, as if time had stood still.

Joining us for a great BBQ lunch at Peg Leg Porker was my son Fredric and Bob’s daughter and wife.”

Tom Kline is to Lead Consultant and Founder of Better Vantage Point, LLC, providing risk management and compliance assistance to auto dealers.

David Mills writes, “I have a new, award-winning book of poems, Boneyarn, about slavery in New York City, where the oldest and largest slave cemetery in the United States is located. The book was a finalist for the Crab Orchard Review and Richard Snyder Memorial Prize and was named a bestseller in June.

There has never been a book of poems about slavery in New York City. If anyone is interested in a signed copy, they can email me at simplysyllables@yahoo. com.”

George Stein writes, “Two of my kids are in college, one at University of Colorado and one at Tufts. I recently relocated to LA and am still working for Merchant Advocate, where we assist companies of all shapes and sizes in reducing their credit card fees without switching anything. Clients include NFL teams, hospitals, museums, and many more. I keep up with Noel Williams, Greg Williams, Bill Ryan, Anthony Hardwick, Todd Ackerman ’85, and more.” ’87 Bruce Romney writes, “I married Tamara Rodden in November 2020 at the Woolverton Inn in Stockton, N.J. Due to COVID, we couldn’t do a traditional wedding, so instead, we broadcast it over Zoom, with only my son Chris (the best man) attending in person. Tamara and I now live happily in Phoenixville, Penn. We’re hoping to make it to the 35th Reunion next year.”

1990s

TOP Jeff Kahle ’80, Michael Furgueson ’80, John Baay ’80,

Liz Goulin Kahle ’80, and John Baay ’49 at the Baay’s house on Squam Lake, N.H., in August 2020. John Baay ’49 passed away in March.

CENTER John Kremer ’81 with sons Henry and Milo, summer 2020, Downeast Maine.

BOTTOM John Milliman ’82 on the lower Potomac River aboard his restoration project – the Makai, a 51-year-old Boston Whaler.

BULLETIN | FALL 2021 37

CLASSNOTES | Profile

Laura Machanic

KNOW WHEN TO RISK IT

’86

Laura Machanic ’86 has come a long way from her childhood days designing business cards for her babysitting business. Today, the astute executive is the co-founder and chief financial officer of New Target, a digital marketing company based in Washington, DC and Los Angeles.

Machanic attributes her success, in part, to studying entrepreneurs who took risks, including her own family. Her grandfather – the son of Eastern European immigrants – operated a dry cleaning business in Burlington, Vt. Her father left a job as a stock broker to open a real estate development business. Her mother, a dancer and choreographer, founded the School for Swans, a staple of the Alexandria, Va., community for decades.

“I grew up listening to my parents talk about business at the dinner table,” said Machanic, who ran a lemonade stand at age six.

“I always knew I wanted to work for myself.”

Her years at Choate Rosemary Hall reinforced the value of taking risks. She vividly recalls delivering a campaign speech to join the student council in front of the Paul Mellon Arts Center.

“I was nervous, but also energized,” she said. “The victory taught me that it was okay to be afraid and take risks. I could succeed.”

A few years later, Machanic was in the audience listening to a campaign speech by a peer running for Student Council, though he lacked experience. “It was the most innovative and risk-taking speech I had ever heard. I remember thinking that I was surrounded by talented people who were willing to put themselves out there,” she said. “It was a humbling experience.”

During her last semester at Choate, Machanic worked as an intern at a small New Haven advertising agency, where the owner became a mentor. “I loved it,” she said. “That internship gave me a big leg up professionally. I’m grateful that Choate gave me that opportunity.”

After graduating from Columbia University, Machanic took another risk and headed to the Soviet Union to work at a summer camp for teen survivors of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster. It was the era of perestroika and glasnost under Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev. “I was in the subway when the tanks and troops entered the Red Square,” said Machanic, recalling the failed 1991 coup d’état against Gorbachev. The experience led Machanic to establish her first company, Travel Russia, which offered tours for American students wishing to visit the country.

Back in the United States, Machanic worked as the assistant to the president of a large advertising firm, learning everything she could from the seasoned entrepreneur. A few years later, she joined the sales team at another advertising firm, gleaning knowledge from the owner, who was known as a “serial entrepreneur.” When that owner sold the business, Machanic decided it was time to go into business for herself.

In 1998, Machanic founded New Target with Rudi Ottina of Milan, Italy, and bought out Ottina three years later. For the next 15 years, Machanic expanded New Target, leading several strategic acquisitions to become a full-service digital marketing firm with government, nonprofit and private sector clients nationwide.

Known by colleagues as a “natural born leader,” Machanic said effective leadership requires a “balance of confidence and humility.

You need confidence in your abilities. But you also need humility to recognize when you need to build a team in the areas where you lack strength. Being a leader is not about always having the light shining on you.”

Machanic again followed the example of her father, who sold his business at age 50 to two employees he had groomed. In 2016, Machanic sold a majority interest in her company to New Target’s executive management team – three employees she had handpicked and nurtured for years. The exit strategy has been rewarding, both personally and professionally.

She now has time to run her late mother’s School for Swans, which has gradated more than 3,000 students over the decades.

Machanic wants to continue that tradition. “Running my mother’s business has brought me so much joy,” she said. She also enjoys watching New Target thrive, without needing to be involved in the day-to-day operation. “The ultimate test of success is building a company that can live on without you.”

BY Magaly Olivero Magaly Olivero is a freelance writer and editor.

38 CLASSNOTES

’90

Matthew Zavod helped bring back the full 2021 Major League Baseball season by singing the national anthem for the Oakland Athletics Opening Day on April 1!

2

1

’91

Brad Robie writes, “My youngest daughter, Leanna, will follow in her older sister Maya ’23’s footsteps and attend Choate in the fall. I am so excited for her to experience all of the amazing things that I got to experience from this wonderful school and community.”

’92 Ian Lendler writes, “My new picture book, Nia and the New Free Library, is a retelling of the classic ‘Stone Soup’ story: A little girl rallies her town into rebuilding their library after a tornado blows their old one away.”

3

4

5

1 Bob Huseby ’86 has been doing some gnarly moun-

4 Amanda Redmond Arcand ’94 is pictured in the

tain biking in California with Courtney O’Connell ’86.

2 DJ Paul ’86 and his fiancé, Dr. Kelley M. Vandewalle, welcomed their first child, Colette Sophia Paul, on August 20, 2019.

3 Tom Kline ’84 From the bright lights of Times Square ... now that’s a better vantage point!

socially distanced classroom space created in the Library Reading Room at Choate.

5 Casey McGuire Davidson ’93 started a new career as a life and sobriety coach and online course creator at hellosomedaycoaching.com. The Hello Someday Podcast launched in May 2020.

’93 In May, Kristen Clarke ’93 was sworn in as the Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice. This historic appointment is another step in a successful and trailblazing career for Clarke. After attending Choate, she went on to get her Bachelor of Arts from Harvard and her J.D. from Columbia Law School. She has worked for the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division as a trial attorney for the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, served as the President & Executive Director for the National Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights, and was Chief of the Civil Right Bureau for the New York Attorney General’s Office. She is the first Black woman to lead the DOJ’s Civil Rights division. She was a 2017 recipient of the Choate Alumni Award.

Casey McGuire Davidson writes, “The big news from here is that I decided to leave corporate life after 20 years in digital marketing and start a new career as a life and sobriety coach and online course creator at hellosomedaycoaching.com! I quit drinking five years ago. My new favorite project is the podcast I launched in May 2020, ‘Hello Someday,’ created for busy women who are sober, curious, and ready to drink less and live more. After one year on the air, it’s already ranked in the top 2 percent of podcasts globally.”

Robert Russo writes, “I was recently elected President of the Board of Trustees of Fairfield Country Day School, where I attended and where my twin boys are currently in the third grade.”

Hannah Sears writes, “I’m busy working during COVID, selling and learning about antique rugs at Fine Rugs NY and learning about consigned objects at a local charity in Georgetown, Washington, DC.”

BULLETIN | FALL 2021 39

’94

Amanda Redmond Arcand writes, “I have been teaching Spanish at Choate since 2005, and I’ve been so proud of how our school has adapted in order to continue providing an amazing educational experience. The pandemic has affirmed the incomparable value of boarding school life.”

Shantell Richardson ’99 Fleet Foxes album cover feat. the Resistance Revival Chorus.

“In 2020, as a member of the Resistance Revival Chorus, I sang with Fleet Foxes’ Robin Pecknold on the Late Show with Stephen Colbert. It was the bucket list experience I never knew I wanted. And as a fashion industry veteran it blew my mind when W Magazine named it one of the 10 Most Creative Live Performances of 2020.”

–SHANTELL RICHARDSON

’99

’95 Emily Demarchelier writes, “I opened two restaurants in Greenport, N.Y., during the pandemic.

Both are an extension of my family business which had closed in NYC. Demarchelier Bistro is at 471 Main Street. Hope to see fellow classmates there.” ’96

Nikisha Alcindor recently launched the STEM Educational Institute, a nonprofit corporation that provides programming that gives underrepresented high school students the technological skills needed to enter today’s workforce while building generational wealth. The program aims to serve as a diverse talent pipeline for organizations and build generational wealth. More information can be found at http:// www.stemeducationalinstitute.org/.

Michael Kayne writes, “In October, I joined the writing staff of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.”

’98 Angela Ruggiero was featured in an article on Yahoo Finance, discussing the untapped market for women’s sports. Ruggiero, an Olympian hockey player, now CEO of sports research company Sports Innovation Lab, noted the differences in how fans of men’s vs. women’s sports consume content, always keeping in mind that storytelling is key. ’99 Rebecca Zubaty Cohen writes, “I live in NYC with my husband, Jared Cohen, and three young daughters. I recently joined Worldcoin.org as Senior Legal Counsel for Corporate and Strategic Transactions.”

Lisa Mondani continues her work as an RN at Whiting Forensic Hospital in Middletown, Conn.

She truly enjoys working with the clients in the transitional stage of their integrated treatment as they transition back into society to lead productive lives.

Not much has changed in Cromwell. She still enjoys watching golf during COVID times, skiing at Mount Snow, and going to the gym in Farmington.

Shantell Richardson writes, “In 2020, as a member of the Resistance Revival Chorus, I sang with Fleet Foxes’ Robin Pecknold on the Late Show with Stephen Colbert. On July 17 RecordStoreDay.com released live versions of ‘Can I Believe You’ and ‘Wading in Waist-High Water.’ I think my fellow Milagros would be proud.”

40

CLASSNOTES | Profile

Yahonnes Cleary

’96

PUSHING THE DREAM FORWARD From humble beginnings in the Bronx, to an impressive rise after Choate – earning degrees from Columbia College, Oxford University, and Yale Law School, and becoming a partner at prestigious New York law firm Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP – Yahonnes Cleary ’96 attributes his accomplishments mainly to the support of his close knit family. But second to his family, he credits Prep for Prep, a New York–based academic and leadership development program.

If you graduated in the Class of 1992 or later, chances are you know a Prep for Prep student. Prep for Prep recruits minority students from New York City elementary and middle schools, and after a rigorous 14-month academic program, helps them apply to leading independent day schools in New York City and boarding schools throughout the Northeast. Yahonnes’s older brother, Makonnen Payne ’92, was in Prep for Prep’s first class of students at Choate, and Yahonnes was in the fifth. Decades later, the relationship between Prep for Prep and Choate continues, with shared alumni that have included Class Presidents, School Seal Prize Winners,

Alumni Award winner Kristen Clarke ’93, who was recently confirmed to head the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division, and current Choate Form Dean William Gilyard ’98.

Yahonnes recalls fondly how Prep for Prep’s rigorous coursework helped prepare him for Choate, though he readily admits that it was a struggle. “The Prep classes were much more advanced than my middle school. I remember struggling with algebra and having to meet with my teacher after class to get extra help. But when I got to Choate, the work was much more manageable than it would have been otherwise.” As important, he says, Prep for Prep gave him the confidence that he had what it took to succeed academically.

“While I was taking algebra, my third form year roommate was taking precalculus. So that was a little intimidating. But the experience I had in Prep for Prep led me to believe that with the right training and commitment, I really could learn anything. In college, even though I was a political science major, I finally took calculus in some ways just to prove I could do it.”

Prep for Prep also helped prepare him for an unfamiliar social environment. “We got a lot of advice from older Prep alum about what to expect at boarding school. And there were other Prep students at Choate so we could figure it out together. I also kept in touch with my friends at other boarding schools. They’re still some of my closest friends today.” The program continued to support him after Choate with help securing internships, and leadership development training.

Yahonnes’s experience growing up in the Bronx sparked an interest in economic and social justice. Starting in college, he worked in local government and nonprofit organizations devoted to improving economic opportunities in urban communities. Even after transitioning to private law practice years later, he has continued this pursuit. “My law firm [Paul, Weiss] has a history of doing pro bono work on just about every major social justice issue in America, from racial segregation in the 1960s, to marriage equality, voting rights, immigration, and other civil rights issues.” Yahonnes has worked on pro bono cases involving educational equity, affirmative action, and sentencing disparities. He also mentors younger lawyers, especially lawyers of color, who continue to be underrepresented in the profession.

But one of Yahonnes’s most rewarding social justice commitments has brought him full circle: he recently joined Prep for Prep’s board.

“After the announcement that I made partner at Paul, Weiss, Prep for Prep reached out to ask if I might be interested in joining their Board. After everything Prep had done for me, it was an easy decision.”

Last year, along with another Prep for Prep alum, Yahonnes became Co-President of the Board, marking the first time alums have served in that role.

Despite the challenges brought by the pandemic, Yahonnes says that Prep for Prep, which operated virtually throughout, continues to thrive. In fact, he says, the last few months have made him more excited about what the future holds for the organization. “I’m amazed that more than 40 years after Prep was founded, its mission is as critical as ever. We’ve had so many shared experiences recently that demonstrate the critical need for developing talented, diverse, ethical leaders across all sectors of society. That is fundamentally what Prep for Prep does, and really what I think Choate aims to do as well.”

For more information about Prep for Prep, visit prepforprep.org.

BY Jerome A. Parker ’97 Jerome A. Parker ’97, a Prep alum, is a writer, director, and producer for the stage and screen with a focus on dramas and musicals.

BULLETIN | FALL 2021 41

2

1 BABIES! 1 Avi and Vanessa Khachane

4 Amanda Carpenter ’05 and

’04 with their children, River (3), and Hawkins is (1).

her husband, Brent Lewis, welcomed Malcolm Christopher Lewis on January 19, 2020.

3

2 Ariel Faulkner-O’Brien ’04

and husband Chris O’Brien welcomed a baby girl, Beatrix Ruth O’Brien, on August 26, 2020.

5 Erin Grajewski Williams ’08

and Gareth Williams welcomed their first baby, Rhys James McInnis Williams, on July 5, 2020 in Bermuda.

3 Katie Hartsoe ’06 and

husband Marcus welcomed Colette Marie Bykowsky on October 24, 2020.

4

6 Charlotte Lucy, daughter of

Emily (Lovejoy) White ’06.

5

6

42 CLASSNOTES

LEFT Sam Muglia ’01 and his

dog Cosmo.

RIGHT Swearing-In Ceremony, Frank R. Lautenberg U.S. Post Office and Courthouse, Newark, N.J., September 14, 2020.

Pictured (from left) The Hon. Edward S. Kiel, U.S.M.J. and Francis W. Yook ’06.

2000s ’01

Samuel Muglia writes, “I live in Pasadena with my wife, Haley McMillen, and our dog Cosmo. I recently took a job with Netflix Animation, working on the new animated film and series Arlo the Alligator Boy. Classmates in Los Angeles should get in touch.”

’02

Noah Charney and his family had a tremendous year in publishing. Noah, mother Diane (former Choate Rosemary Hall French teacher and first International Student adviser), and father James (former School psychiatrist) have all released new books this year. Noah published The Devil in the Gallery, exploring famous art rivalries and scandals through history; Diane published Letters to Men of Letters, in which she writes to the authors she most admires, both living and dead; and James’s book Madness at the Movies, based on a course he teaches at Yale which examines how mental illness is depicted in film, is due out this year.

Mark Osborne writes, “As Assistant General Counsel at Grow Financial Federal Credit Union in Tampa, I was selected by the Tampa Bay Business Journal as a 2021 Top Corporate Counsel Honoree.”

’04

Vanessa Goldstein Khachane writes, “I am a product marketing manager at YouTube in N.Y. I also recently joined the Young Professionals Board of Youth Inc., in an effort to support the nonprofits servicing our youth in the NYC area.” Avi Khachane ’04 is a VP, Investment Banking at Guggenheim Partners. Since last summer, Vanessa and Avi, and their two children, River and Hawkins, have settled

into their new home in Bedford, N.Y. They are excited to now be neighbors with Sarah (Cabot) Bergin ’03 and Kate Lawrence.

Ariel Faulkner-O’Brien writes, “My husband, Chris O’Brien, and I welcomed a baby girl, Beatrix Ruth O’Brien, on August 26, 2020.”

’05

Amanda Carpenter and her husband, Brent Lewis, welcomed their son, Malcolm Christopher Lewis, on January 19, 2020.

’06

Katie Hartsoe writes, “I continue to work in costume design for film and TV but took a nice (forced) six-month break in 2020, during which I discovered what it meant to be well-rested. All that went out the window in October when our daughter Colette was born. I truly never thought I’d be more exhausted than I was at Choate, but I was wrong.

I returned to work in January, which has been an adventure.”

Lis Hulin Wheeler writes, “I am wearing a lot of hats this year: Managing Editor of Mermaids Monthly Magazine, a yearlong speculative fiction project; Lead Editor and Logistics Manager at Wizards in Space Magazine; a Logistics Consultant for These Bewitching Bonds, a Black Girls Create anthology; as well as writing fiction under the pen name Valentine Wheeler, with a novel, three novellas, and numerous short stories out.”

Emily Lovejoy White, husband Chris, and 3-and-a-1/2-year-old daughter, Cameron, welcomed Charlotte Lucy White on August 19, 2020.

Francis Yook writes, “After working as a litigation associate at a large New Jersey firm for several years, I am now the judicial law clerk to Edward S. Kiel, United States Magistrate Judge for the United States District Court, District of New Jersey, the first Federal Judge of Korean descent in New Jersey’s history. I recently accepted an offer to join Walsh Pizzi O’Reilly Falanga LLP, a full-practice law firm based in Newark, where I will begin in the fall.”

’07

Leah Lettieri writes, “I launched my agency, Toki Territory, at the end of 2019; it provides global distribution and sourcing for fashion and cosmetics brands. After a whirlwind year and a half, I have worked with a variety of clients, including Macy’s, Bobbi Brown’s new beauty line Jones Road, and Ralph Lauren. I hope to focus more on growing the international presence of sustainable brands and would love to connect with any other fellow Choaties who are working in the industry!”

’09 David Engstrom writes, “I will undergo a Permanent Change of Station from Grafenwoehr, Germany, to Fort Campbell, Ky., where I will work as a Judge Advocate for the Office of the Staff of Judge Advocate of the 101st Airborne Division, U.S. Army. I am a Captain in the Army JAG Corps.”

Noel Titus writes, “I recently completed turnover of improvements of the headquarters for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington. My role as the project manager involved working in an engineering and construction management capacity for executing project folder management best practices.

The project reflects roughly $1 million of in-kind labor and material contributions from our subcontractor partners.”

BULLETIN | FALL 2021 43

2010s ’10 Caroline Gregory writes, “Dan Pahl and I got our graduate degrees from Columbia and celebrated together, COVID style. Dan got his M.D. and I got my M.B.A.” ’11 Nick Ramsey writes, “In August I started as a senior associate, Management Consulting, at PwC in Boston.” ’12

Sallyan Rusnak writes, ”I graduated with honors from Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University, in May. I will begin my Emergency Medicine Residency at Loyola Medical Center in Chicago.”

’14 Zachary Berzolla writes, “I just received the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship and will pursue a Ph.D. in Building Technology at MIT. My research focuses on creating tools to help jurisdictions around the world reach their greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals through energy efficiency and renewable energy. I recently led a workshop with eight different cities

around the world charting pathways to meet their emissions goals.”

Ashley Kim writes, “My poem, ‘Chestnuts,’ was published in the Spoon River Poetry Review’s winter 2020 issue. It was also nominated for a Pushcart Prize.”

Kimber Kristy writes, “As a musician in Los Angeles, I was inspired by the stories of courage and bravery of COVID-19 healthcare and essential workers, and wanted to find a way to recognize them. I wrote and performed an original song and created an uplifting video, Hard Times – A Tribute to COVID-19 Heroes, featuring more than 70 people from 13 different states.”

’17

Larisa Owusu was awarded the 2021 Thomas T. Hoopes Prize at Harvard for outstanding scholarly work or research for her submission entitled “Iconic Market Women: The Unsung Heroines of Post-Colonial Ghana (1960s–1990s).” She was one of 74 undergraduates to win the award, which is funded by the estate of Thomas T. Hoopes, Class of 1919. The fund’s purpose is “recognizing, promoting, honoring, and rewarding excellence in the work of undergraduates and their capabilities and skills in any subject.”

Student winners are awarded $5,000, with winning projects displayed in the Lamont library at Harvard for two years.

Caroline Gregory ’10 and Dan Pahl ’10 got their graduate degrees from Columbia University and celebrated together.

“I just received the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship and will pursue a Ph.D. in Building Technology at MIT. My research focuses on creating tools to help jurisdictions around the world reach their greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals through energy efficiency and renewable energy.”– ZACHARY BERZOLLA

’14

44

IN MEMORIAM | Remembering Those We Have Lost Alumni and Alumnae

’41 C Robert A. Anderson Jr., 99, a retired entrepreneur, died March 5, 2021 in Honolulu. Born in Chicago, Bob came to Choate in 1938. He lettered in cross-country and track (co-captain), was in the Glee Club, and was on the Student Council. He then started at Cornell, but left to join the Army Air Force when World War II started, flying 57 missions over Germany. After the war he moved to Hawaii, where he co-founded the Hawaii Air National Guard and had a varied business career, culminating in managing the Alexander Young Hotel in Honolulu that had been built by his great-grandfather. An avid sportsman, Bob coached track and field at Punahou School. He also raised thoroughbred horses. He leaves his wife, Jeanne Anderson, 38 So. Judd St., Honolulu, HI 96817; three children; and several grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. A brother, the late Allen Anderson ’44, also attended Choate. ’42 C Harry W. Wellford, 96, a retired judge, died April 17, 2021 in Memphis, Tenn. Born in Memphis, Harry came to Choate in 1940; he lettered in squash and tennis and was in the Cum Laude Society. He then studied at Washington & Lee, Cornell, and the University of North Carolina as part of the Navy’s V-12 program. After serving in the Navy, Harry earned a law degree from Vanderbilt, later becoming a federal district and appellate court judge.

He leaves five children and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. ’44 C Peter W. Waller, 94, who worked with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, died February 26, 2021 in Palo Alto, Calif.

Born in Kewanee, Ill., Peter came to Choate in 1942; he lettered in wrestling. He then went to Princeton, but interrupted his studies to serve in the Navy. He later wrote speeches for the President of Lockheed Corp. before joining NASA’s Ames Research Center, where as a press agent he was part of several moon and interplanetary missions. Peter enjoyed gardening, rock climbing, and remodeling. He leaves his wife, Elizabeth Waller, 3655 La Calle Court, Palo Alto, CA 94306; two children; and two grandchildren.

’45 RH Caroline Parker Huber, 93, a teacher, died February 9, 2021 in Locust, N.J. Born in New York City, Carol came to Rosemary Hall in 1940; she played first team basketball, was head of the Athletic Association, was Editor of the Question Mark, won a history prize, was in the Kindly Club and earned eight bars on the Committee.

She then earned degrees from Vassar, Teachers College of Columbia and, in her mid-50s, a Ph.D. from Rutgers.

Carol taught for many years at every level, including some time at Rosemary Hall. Even well after retirement, she taught a writing class at a senior living community. Socially active, she was in the League of Women Voters, worked on political campaigns, and championed environmental causes, establishing the Stone Foundation of New Jersey, which works for environmental justice. She leaves five children, 12 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. A sister, the late Laura Parker Price ’40, also attended Rosemary Hall. ’46 C

William C. Crutcher, 92, a retired attorney, died April 2, 2021 in Middlebury, Conn. Born in Richmond, Ky., Bill came to Choate in 1943; he was in the Cum Laude Society and won a School prize for excellence in mathematics. He earned degrees from the Georgia Technology Institute, the University of Louisville, and Union College. For 16 years he was with General Electric Co.’s Turbine Generator Division in Schenectady, N.Y. Bill was then a patent attorney with Timex Corp. in Middlebury, and also was with a law firm in Hartford. An amateur inventor, he developed many products, including a “faucet-fountain,” an attachment that converts standard sinks into water bubblers. He enjoyed travel, music, and art, and was active with the Middlebury Land Trust. He leaves two daughters and five grandchildren.

Richard Steinmetz, 91, a retired attorney, died in January 2021. Born in Orange, N.J., Dick came to Choate in 1944; he was Associate Editor of the Choate News, a Campus Cop, and in the Choral and Glee clubs.

After graduating from Yale, he served in the Marines, attaining the rank of Captain. He then graduated from Harvard Law School and worked for a

New York law firm before becoming the chief counsel for Anaconda Corp. and, later, for Case, Pomeroy & Co. in New York. He leaves three children and a grandchild. A brother, William Steinmetz ’49, 42015 No. Venture Dr., Apt. 276, Phoenix, AZ 85086, also attended Choate.

Thomas Wachtell, 92, a retired executive of petroleum companies, died February 1, 2021 in Ojai, Calif.

Born in Bronxville, N.Y., Tom came to Choate in 1944 and was in the Choral and Glee clubs. After earning degrees from Syracuse University and the Cornell Law School, he was a Lieutenant Commander in the Office of Naval Intelligence in Southeast Asia. He was then Executive Vice President of Occidental Petroleum and President of Merritt Energy Corp. Tom was a founder and board Chair of the Music Center Opera Association of Los Angeles and was on the Cultural Commission of the 1984 Olympics. In 2007, he established the Wachtell Teaching Chair at Choate Rosemary Hall in honor of former faculty E. Stanley Pratt, and in 2011 he was awarded the Distinguished Alumni Service Prize. He leaves his wife, Esther Wachtell, Oak Knoll Ranch, Ojai, CA 93023; three children, including Roger Wachtell ’77 and Peter Wachtell ’81; and 13 grandchildren, including Bryce Wachtell ’17 and Thomas Wachtell ’19.

A brother, the late George Wachtell ’47, also attended Choate.

Bryan Webb, 92, a retired attorney, died January 7, 2021. Born in Garden City, N.Y., Bryan came to Choate in 1944; he was in the Choral, Glee, and Press clubs. After graduating from Williams, he spent two years in the Air Force, earned a law degree from Columbia, and joined the New York law firm Satterlee and Stephens. Bryan enjoyed music, serving on the board of the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra and, later, as president of the Vermont Symphony Orchestra. He also enjoyed skiing. He leaves his wife, Patricia Webb, 53 East 66th St., Apartment 76, New York, NY 10065; two children; and five grandchildren.

In 2007, Thomas Wachtell established the Wachtell Teaching Chair at Choate Rosemary Hall in honor of former faculty E. Stanley Pratt, and in 2011 he was awarded the Distinguished Alumni Service Prize.

’46

BULLETIN | FALL 2021 45

’47 C

William C. Cusack Jr., 92, a retired mutual funds executive, died February 1, 2021 in Annapolis, Md. Born in Boston, Mass., Bill came to Choate in 1944; he lettered in football and crew, winning an award in the latter sport, and was on the Dance Committee. After graduating from Hobart, he was with the Air Force for four years. He then was a mutual fund wholesaler and financial planner for many years, and was on the board of the International Association for Financial Planning. Bill enjoyed sailing, hockey, and skiing, and was on the National Ski Patrol in the Rockies for years. He leaves three sons, three grandchildren, and a brother.

’47 RH Anita Marie Boffa, later known as Buffy Cafritz, 91, a philanthropist, died May 4, 2021 in Washington, DC. Born in Westport, Conn., Buffy came to Rosemary Hall in 1945; she was in the Kindly, Music, and Spanish clubs, was a Day Boarder Marshal, and was on the Dramatic Club board. After graduating from Colby Junior College (now Colby-Sawyer College) in New Hampshire, she moved to Washington, where she became one of the city’s socialites. She was especially known for the Inaugural parties, involving those of both major political parties, that she and her husband, real estate developer William Cafritz, threw for three decades. Buffy served on the boards or advisory committees of many nonprofit organizations, including the National Institutes of Health Foundation, the National Gallery of Art, and the White House Historical Association. This year’s Kennedy Center Honors were dedicated to her. She leaves a son, three granddaughters, and a great-granddaughter.

’48 C Derek “Deke” Dorey, 90, a retired executive of General Electric Co., died April 2, 2021. Born in Trenton, N.J., Deke came to Choate in 1944.

He lettered in cross-country and wrestling, was Associate Editor of the Choate News, and was Vice President of the Glee Club. After graduating from Dartmouth, he spent three years in postwar Japan with the Army, then was hired by General Electric. Deke lived for years in Tyler, Texas, where he was involved in many community organizations, including the Chamber

of Commerce, the Boy Scouts, and the Texas Mental Health Association. He enjoyed golf, sailing, metal detecting, camping, and hiking. He leaves four children, five grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.

’49 C

John E. W. Baay, 88, a retired surgeon, died March 13, 2021 in Amarillo, Texas. Born in Mexico City, John, who spoke Dutch, Spanish, and French, but almost no English, came to Choate in 1945. He was in the French Club and the Cum Laude Society. After earning degrees from Princeton and Johns Hopkins, he completed a fellowship at Duke and a surgical residency at Hartford Hospital. John began his cardiothoracic surgical practice in Erie, Pa., later moving to Amarillo, where he retired in 2002. He enjoyed rowing, sailing, skiing, and pheasant hunting. He leaves his wife, Nancy Baay, 2805 South Ong St., Amarillo, TX 79109; four children, including John Baay II ’80; 13 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

John C. Todd, 90, a retired cattle rancher, died January 24, 2021.

Born in Derby, Conn., John came to Choate in 1944; he lettered in soccer and crew, was Associate Editor of the Choate News, and was in the Current History Club. After graduating from Penn’s Wharton School, he served in the Air Force. For many years John raised Brangus cattle, a cross of Brahman and Angus stock, in Arizona.

He was also a volunteer sheriff. He leaves his wife, Regina Todd, 4017 East Poe St., Tucson, AZ 85711; three children; and six grandchildren.

’50 C Harlow Jay Cozzolino, 87, a retired surgeon, died February 25, 2021. Born in Hamden, Conn., Jay came to Choate in 1948; he lettered in wrestling and was in the Automobile Club. He then earned degrees from Penn and Jefferson Medical College, where he also completed his residency and a fellowship. He then moved to Redlands, Calif., where he practiced for many years, at one time serving as Chairman of the Gastroenterology Department at Redlands Community Hospital. Jay was a pilot who flew many times to Mexico to provide medical services. He enjoyed skiing and

photography. He leaves his wife, Linda Cozzolino, 630 Fairway Dr., Redlands, CA 92373; two daughters; two grandchildren; and a brother. A niece, Lauren Davies ’98, attended Choate Rosemary Hall.

James D. English, 88, a college librarian, died February 3, 2021. Born in New Haven, Jim came to Choate in 1947; he was in the French Club. After graduating from Yale, he earned a Master of Library Science degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. For years he was a librarian at Quinnipiac College (now Quinnipiac University) in Hamden, Conn. An enthusiastic supporter of Choate Rosemary Hall’s Andrew Mellon Library, he established an endowed fund to support the library’s technology needs. He leaves no known family; a cousin, the late Henry English ’39, also attended Choate.

Rodman H. Leavell, 89, a retired executive of a business supplies company, died June 2, 2021.

Born in Louisville, Ky., Rod came to Choate in 1945. He lettered in crew, winning a School award; was in the Press Club; and was Vice President of the Band, where he played saxophone. After graduating from Babson College, he joined Moore Business Forms in the Boston area, rising to be district manager for Vermont and New Hampshire. Rod enjoyed competitive sailing, fishing, and wildlife preservation; he also volunteered for the American Cancer Society, Meals on Wheels, and the ALS Society of northern New England. He leaves his wife, Donna Leavell, 404 Straw Hill Rd., Manchester, NH 03104; three daughters; a stepdaughter; eight grandchildren; two greatgranddaughters; and a sister.

’51 C Donald O. Ablin, 87, the retired owner of a fabric company, died January 20, 2021. Born in Chicago, Don came to Choate in 1947; he was in the Cum Laude Society, lettered in hockey, played trumpet in the Band, and was in the Camera, Western, and Press clubs.

After earning degrees from Harvard and the University of Chicago, Don owned a firm that made plastic-coated fabrics.

He leaves three children and seven grandchildren.

’52 C Charles A. Hastings, 87, an architect, died April 27, 2021. Born in Wheeling, W. Va., Charles came to Choate in 1950; he was in the Choral and Glee clubs. After graduating from Carnegie Mellon University, he moved to Charlotte, N.C., where he practiced architecture. Charles enjoyed reading, traveling, and gardening, and was a sketch artist and sculptor. He leaves his wife, Florence Hastings, 300 Indian Harbor Rd., Vero Beach, FL 32963; four children; four grandchildren; and a great-granddaughter. ’53 C G. Morgan Browne, 85, former COO of the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, died January 17, 2021.

Born in New York City, Morgan came to Choate in 1947; he was in St. Andrew’s Cabinet, the Press Club, and the Rifle Club. After graduating from Yale, he was an industrial management and financial relations consultant. Morgan joined the Cold Spring Harbor Lab on Long Island in 1985 as Administrative Director, expanding the research toward clinical development. He retired in 2003 but remained a trustee. He leaves his wife, JoAnn Browne, P.O. Box 418, Locust Valley, NY 11560; sons, including Douglas Browne ’85 and Tenney Browne ’85; a brother, Sedgwick Browne ’60; a niece, Michele Piorkowski ’85; and a cousin, Daniel Tenney ’72.

Two uncles, the late Charles Tenney ’29 and Daniel Tenney ’31, also attended Choate. ’53 RH Judith Tree Smith, 85, active in the community, died April 22, 2021.

Born in England, Judith moved to the United States in 1941 and came to Rosemary Hall in 1948. She played 1st team basketball and hockey, was awarded the Athletic Scarf, earned 10 bars on the Committee, was head of the Rules Committee and a Fire Captain, and was in the Kindly and Folk Song clubs. Her classmates voted her “Most Athletic.” After graduating from the University of Delaware, she and her husband moved to Tokyo, where he worked for DuPont. There, Judith was President of the College Women’s Association of Japan and was active in Al-Anon. She enjoyed swimming, tennis, and playing bridge. She leaves four children and six grandchildren.

46 IN MEMORIAM

In 1999, Alice Ely Chapman founded the Ely Chapman Education Foundation in Marietta, Ohio, “under the principle that every child can learn, given an encouraging and caring atmosphere.”

’62 ’54 C

Peter G. Kaufmann, 84, the owner of a Dutch tanning firm, died November 19, 2020. Born in Rotterdam, Holland, Peter fled the Netherlands with his family during World War II, settled in New York, and came to Choate in 1950. He lettered in squash; was in the Choral, Glee, French, and Chess clubs; and won a School prize in French. After serving in the Army, he returned to Rotterdam and joined the family skin-and-hides business. In 1990, then-Queen Beatrix named him an Officier in the Orde van Oranje-Nassau. He leaves a daughter, two grandsons, and a great-grandson.

Allen S. Rosenberg, 84, a choirmaster and organist, died February 26, 2021 in Port St. Lucie, Fla. Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., Allen came to Choate in 1951; he was in the Choral Club, the Glee Club, and the Maiyeros; won two School prizes in music; and won a School prize in public speaking.

He attended Yale, the Juilliard School of Music, Columbia, the University of Western Connecticut, and the University of Miami, and studied conducting with several outstanding musicians. Allen was a concert organist for many years, performing in the United States, Germany, Ireland, England; he also taught music at several levels, from elementary school to college. He was a member of the American Guild of Organists. He leaves his wife, Ursula Rosenberg, 1670 Thumb Point Dr., Fort Pierce, FL 34949; two sons; three stepchildren; and several grandchildren. His brothers, Alburt Rosenberg ’45 and the late Arthur Rosenberg ’48, attended Choate, as did his son, Scott Rosenberg ’85.

Thomas R. Schwarz, 84, the retired President of the Dunkin’ Donuts Co., died May 11, 2021 in Newton, Mass. Born in New York City, Tom came to Choate in 1949; he was in the Cum Laude Society and the Current History Club, and was Secretary-Treasurer of the Spanish National Honor Society.

He earned degrees from Williams and Harvard Business School, and served in the Navy for three years. Tom’s business career included investment banking at Goldman Sachs and being CEO of Grossman Lumber, in addition to his Dunkin’ Donuts presidency.

He leaves his wife, Ann Schwarz, 60 Westcliff Rd., Weston, MA 02493; four children; and eight granddaughters. ’55 C Orson L. St. John Jr., 86, a business broker, died January 28, 2021 in Cambridge, Mass. Born in New York City, Orson came to Choate in 1952; he lettered in baseball and football, and was in the French, Press, and Automobile clubs. After earning degrees from Ripon (Wis.) College and the University of Chicago, he served in the Army, then joined IBM in White Plains, N.Y. In 1976, he moved to a farm in North Pomfret, Vt., where he was a business broker and farmer, specifically raising beefalo. Orson enjoyed skiing, golf, and football, and he served on the Pomfret Planning Commission. He leaves his partner, Connie Anderson; three children; and seven grandchildren. He was distantly related to several members of the Choate St. John family, including the late George St. John ’28, Seymour St. John ’31, Francis St. John ’34, and former headmaster George C. St. John.

’56 C Michael A. Clegg, 82, the retired president of a property management company, died April 6, 2021 in Cleveland, Ohio. Born in Cleveland, Mike came to Choate in 1951; he lettered in soccer and was in the Rifle, Western, and Glee clubs. After graduating from Yale, he worked for IBM, then joined the Ostendorf-Morris group, now known as Hanna Commercial Real Estate, in Cleveland. Mike and his wife, who died in 2015, helped found Ronald McDonald House in Cleveland, and were major fundraisers for the charity and others, especially those involved with intellectual disability. He enjoyed golf, singing, and watching Cleveland Browns football games. He leaves three children, including Christopher Clegg, 33649 North Deer Creek Ln., Pepper Pike, OH 44124; four grandchildren; a sister; and a brother, Lee Clegg ’50. A nephew, Jonathan Moffly ’80, attended Choate Rosemary Hall.

Alexander R. Fitzenhagen, 82, a real estate investment manager, died March 13, 2021 in Dallas. Born in the Netherlands, Alex spent his childhood there during the period of Nazi occupation before emigrating to the United States in 1946. He came to Choate in 1952, where he played club sports and was in the Weather Bureau; he then earned degrees from Washington and Lee and Southern Methodist University. Alex was involved in several businesses, from cotton, oil and gas, and direct sales, before pursuing real estate management.

He enjoyed travel. He leaves his wife, Bernadette Fitzenhagen, 6916 Desco Circle, Dallas, TX 75225; three children; and seven grandchildren.

David W. Gordon, 82, a retired executive with Eastman Kodak Co., died April 1, 2021 in Rockport, Maine.

Born in Detroit, Dave came to Choate in 1952; he was Captain of varsity crew, earned a rowing trophy, and was the Manager of the Projectionists’ Association. After earning degrees from Cornell and the Tuck School at Dartmouth, he began a long career with Eastman Kodak, originally in Rochester, N.Y., and later in Camden, Maine. In retirement, Dave volunteered for Habitat for Humanity, Coastal Family Hospice, the Camden Conference, and MidCoast Artists. He enjoyed sailing.

He leaves his wife, Kay Gordon, 75 Chestnut St., Camden, ME 04843, and three children.

Charles D. Klein, 81, a financial adviser, died August 30, 2020 in Danbury, Conn. Born in Philadelphia, Chuck came to Choate in 1954; he was in the Rifle Club and the French Club. After earning degrees from Bard College and the New York University Law School, he had a long career in finance, with Bear Stearns, Lehman Brothers, and was the co-founder of the private equity firm American Securities. Chuck served on many boards, including those of the Population Council and the Petrie Foundation. A trustee of the NYU Law School, he received its Vanderbilt Medal in 2010. Chuck enjoyed hunting, motorcycling, opera, and art. He leaves his wife, Jane Klein, P. O. Box 166, South Kent, CT 06785; two children; and three grandchildren.

BULLETIN | FALL 2021 47

’58 C Archibald G. Delmarsh III, 81, an innkeeper, died February 18, 2021 in Sugar Hill, Ga. Born in Fort Collins, Colo., Archie came to Choate in 1952; he lettered in hockey and tennis, and as captain won a School tennis trophy. After graduating from Princeton, he was in the insurance industry for several years in California and Colorado. In 1972, he and his wife moved to Inlet, N.Y., and ran the Rocky Point Inn. Archie, a lifelong avid golfer, was part-owner in several businesses, including a snowmobile dealership, a golf course, and a T-shirt factory. He leaves his wife Shirley Delmarsh, P.O. Box 133, Inlet, NY 13360; three sons; and six grandchildren.

John Ramsey Simpson, 80, an actor known professionally as John Ramsey, died January 20, 2021.

Born in Scranton, Pa., Ramsey came to Choate in 1954; he was SecretaryTreasurer of the Glee Club and in the Gold Key Society and the Altar Guild.

After graduating from Brown, he attended Yale’s School of Drama and started his acting career at the Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis. He was with several national repertory theaters, appeared in Broadway productions, and was a judge on TV’s Law and Order.

Ramsey enjoyed cooking, fishing, and storytelling. He leaves his partner, Dawn Richards, 305 West Main St., Dalton, PA 18414; two daughters; a stepson; four grandchildren; and a sister. ’59 C

Joel S. Barber, 79, a telecommunications executive, died March 10, 2021 in Tampa, Fla. Born in Wilton, Conn., Joel came to Choate in 1955. He lettered in track and crosscountry and was Vice President of the sixth form, Chairman of the Student Council, and President of the Spanish National Honor Society. He was given the School’s Aurelian Honor Society Award. After earning degrees from Williams and Harvard Business School, he was a telecommunications data network expert, holding several senior executive positions with Verizon Corp. before owning his own management consulting business and starting a nonprofit to help high school students perform community service. Joel was a collector of duck decoys, as his father and grandfather had been. He

leaves his wife, Kathryn Barber, 1963 Downing Pl., Palm Harbor, FL 34683; two daughters; four grandchildren; and a sister.

Timothy H. Herty, 80, a retired executive of a steel company, died February 11, 2021. Born in Lehigh, Pa., Tim came to Choate in 1955; he lettered in football and wrestling, and was in the Camera Club and the Altar Guild. After graduating from Virginia Military Institute, he served in the Army, attaining the rank of Second Lieutenant. For many years Tim worked for the Rod and Wire Division of Bethlehem Steel, and in retirement was an insurance agent. He enjoyed biking, gardening, and Bible study. He leaves his wife, Lois Herty, 1659 Mussula Rd., Towson, MD 21286; two children; five grandchildren; and a sister. A cousin, Lisa Hill ’86, attended Choate Rosemary Hall.

William R. Horwitz (Harris), 79, a lawyer and policy analyst, died April 21, 2021 in Burlington, Mass. of COVID-19. Born in New York City, Bill, who later changed his surname to Harris, came to Choate in 1955; he was Chairman of the Debate Council, an associate on the Choate News board, and in the Cum Laude Society. He then earned bachelor’s and law degrees from Harvard. Starting in 1972, he was an analyst at Rand Corp. in Santa Monica, Calif., where his work largely involved national and international security issues. Bill worked with improving the “hot line” between Washington and Moscow, helped set legal boundaries for the use of outer space, and was Vice Chairman of the InfraGard National Disaster Resilience Council. In Newburyport, Mass., where he lived for 18 years, he helped preserve the historic waterfront and make it accessible to the public.

He leaves his wife, Elizabeth Harris, 56 Lime St., Newburyport, MA 01950; three children; four grandchildren; and a sister.

’59 RH Brigit Freeland Kubiak, 79, a retired teacher, died April 20, 2021 in Dixon, Calif. Born in Pittsburgh, Brigit came to Rosemary Hall in 1957.

She was active in Dramu and the Choir, sang with the first iteration of the Whimawehs, and was on the first riding team. After graduating

from the University of Colorado, she taught Latin and French at the Menlo School in Atherton, Calif. She was also a volunteer mentor with the Court Appointed Special Advocate program.

She leaves her husband, Russell Kubiak, 135 Archer Pl., Dixon, CA 95620; a daughter; two grandchildren; a sister; and a brother. Her mother, the late Jane McEldowney Freeland ’24, also attended Rosemary Hall.

he had a lifelong career with the Port Authority. In 1993, he led colleagues down flights of smoke-filled stairways when the World Trade Center was first attacked. John enjoyed golf, tennis, and world travel. He was predeceased by a daughter and leaves his wife, Diane Sullivan, 940 North Griffin Shores Dr., St. Augustine, FL 32080; a son; three grandchildren; a sister; and a brother, Thomas Sullivan Sr. ’68.

’60 C David Gamble Ritchey, 78, a writer and fine art photographer, died December 22, 2020. Born in Cincinnati, David came to Choate in 1958; he lettered in track, was in the Cum Laude and Gold Key societies, and won a School prize for excellence in mathematics. After graduating from Yale, he served in the Navy in Vietnam, an experience he later wrote about. In addition to writing 40 books, David was a fine art photographer for 20 years; his work was displayed in many East Coast galleries. He leaves two children, a grandson, and two sisters. Other relatives who attended Choate were the late Edwin Gamble ’37, the late James Gamble ’40, George Gamble ’56, Launce Gamble ’55, David Gamble ’61, and Foster Gamble ’66.

’62 RH Alice Ely Chapman, 76,

’61 C

Robert L. Durham, 77, a retired psychologist, died March 13, 2021. Born in New York City, Bob came to Choate in 1957; he was in the Gold Key Society, the Press Club, and the Weather Bureau. After serving in the Army as a Green Beret, he earned degrees from the University of Colorado and Vanderbilt. He then returned to University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, where he chaired the Psychology Department for many years, co-authoring 45 technical articles.

He particularly enjoyed mentoring students. His wife died in 2020, and he is survived by two sisters. His father, the late Robert Durham ’33, also attended Choate.

John J. Sullivan, 78, died February 21, 2021 in St. Augustine, Fla. Born in Tampa, John was at Choate for one year; he lettered in football, basketball, and track, and won a School award for excellence in basketball.

After graduating from the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Mass.,

a retired teacher and the founder of a charitable foundation, died December 30, 2020 of COVID-19.

Born in New Haven, Alice came to Rosemary Hall in 1960; she was in the Choir and Philomel, and acted in two Shakespeare plays. Trained in classical music, she attended Bryn Mawr, studied abroad, and taught for a number of years. In 1999, she founded the Ely Chapman Education Foundation in Marietta, Ohio, “under the principle that every child can learn, given an encouraging and caring atmosphere.” In 2014, the Manhattan Institute gave her the Richard Cornuelle Award for Social Entrepreneurship.

Her husband, Leroy Chapman, died a month before Alice did. A number of her relatives were alumni: her father, the late John Ely ’31; her sisters, Nancy Kales ’60, 2634 Broderick St., San Francisco, CA 94123, and Jane Pearce ’68; brothers, Robert Moulton-Ely ’76 and the late Richard Ely ’65; a cousin, the late Charles Ely ’53; and two uncles, the late Herman Ely ’17 and the late George Ely ’24.

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Stephen J. Beardsley, 75, an attorney, died March 2, 2021. Born in Waterbury, Conn., Steve came to Choate in 1960; he was in the Art, Automobile, and Current History clubs. After earning degrees from Hanover College in Indiana and Boston University Law School, he started his legal practice in New Albany, Ind. Interested in saving old buildings, Steve restored his own home and helped the restoration of many residences and businesses in New Albany’s downtown area. He leaves his wife, Rebecca Beardsley, 227 Pearl St., New Albany, IN 47150; six children; and 12 grandchildren.

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’66 RH Patricia Landwehr Corr, 73, a retired interior designer, died January 29, 2021, of complications of ALS. Born in Grand Rapids, Mich., Patti came to Rosemary Hall in 1962; she was in the Outing Club, the Make-Up Club, Gold Key, and was a Marshal. She graduated from the University of Southern California. A licensed USCG 100-ton captain and pilot, she enjoyed sailing, living on a sailboat for several years. A sewer, crafter, and knitter, Patti enjoyed travel, snorkeling and scuba diving. She leaves two sons, seven grandchildren, two brothers, and a sister. ’67 C

Roland D. Fasano, 73, a judge, died May 3, 2021 in New Haven.

Born in New Haven, Rollie was at Choate for one year; he lettered in football, basketball, and track. After earning degrees from Penn and the New England School of Law, he had a lengthy and varied legal career. Starting in private practice, he joined the State’s Attorney’s office in New Haven, prosecuting many complicated cases.

In 1990, Rollie was named a Superior Court judge, presiding in thousands of cases. He leaves his wife, Donna Fasano, 44 Dogwood Rd., North Haven, CT 06473; four sons; and a brother.

’68 C James Brian Walsh, 70, a public finance lawyer, died February 20, 2021. Born in Wiesbaden, Germany, Brian – known as “Jim” at School – came to Choate in 1964; he was in the Press, French, and Art clubs; the Altar Guild; and the Gold Key Society.

After graduating from Harvard and Georgetown Law, for six years he was

on the staff of then-Sen. Lawton Chiles in Washington, DC. He spent three decades with Ballard Spahr LLC in Philadelphia, practicing public finance law. He also worked at Sea Pines Co. during its development of Hilton Head Plantation in South Carolina. Brian enjoyed golf, reading, yoga, traveling, and sports. He leaves his wife, Pamela Walsh, 20 West Lodges Ln., Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004; two daughters; and two grandchildren.

’69 C George S. Hazen, 69, a naval engineer, died December 23, 2020.

Born in Princeton, N.J., George came to Choate in 1966; he lettered in crew and was President of the Aeronautics Club.

After earning degrees from Princeton and MIT, he worked to develop one of the first sailboat velocity prediction programs and designed the Boston Whaler Harpoon 5.2 daysailer. With a partner, he developed software that later became FastShip, a pioneering program used worldwide by ship designers and builders. He was the founder or partner in four companies involved with ship design, and mentored many naval engineers during his career. He leaves a cousin, David Gregson ’60, 3450 2nd Ave., Unit 31, San Diego, CA 92103. His father, the late David Hazen ’44, also attended Choate, as did an uncle, the late William Hazen ’41, and a brother, the late Thomas Hazen ’72.

Michael C. Stovall Jr., 69, an attorney and later a geologist, died February 8, 2021 in Wilmington, N.C. Born in Houston, Michael came to Choate in 1966; he was on the staff of the Choate News and in the French, Rod and Gun, and Automobile clubs. After earning degrees from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Wake Forest Law School, he practiced law in Greensboro, N.C. In 1984, he moved to Tulsa, Okla., to work with his father at the Genie Oil & Gas Corp. He was a President of the Association of Energy Service Companies and was involved in writing industry safety guidelines.

Michael enjoyed sailing and was a youth sailing instructor. He leaves his wife, Kathy Stovall, 317 So. Lumina Ave., Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480; two sons; and two brothers. ’71 RH Susan K. Morrison, 67, a retired bank executive, died May 22, 2021 in Wakefield, R.I. Born in Alexandria, Va., Susan came to Rosemary Hall in 1968. She was head of Gold Key and Sine Nomine, the Latin magazine; and was on the Library Committee and the Question Mark board. After graduating from Mount Holyoke and the New York University School of Business, she joined European American Bank in New York, later moving to Manufacturers Hanover, where she was Senior Vice President in the National Lending Group. Susan then was a real estate agent in Greenwich, and later a manager of Metropolitan Life in Rhode Island. She enjoyed foreign travel, gardening, skiing, and Broadway musicals. She leaves five siblings.

’72 C

Peter C. Jeton, 66, a retired banker, died April 29, 2021. Born in Takoma Park, Md., Peter spent his childhood in Senegal and Tunisia and came to Choate in 1968; he lettered in football (captain) and lacrosse, was President of the Press Club, and was in St. Andrew’s Society. After earning degrees from Dartmouth and Boston University, he joined the Nigerian office of the Bank of Boston, later working in Australia, Japan, and France. He then was the first CEO of Catholic Investment Services, a nonprofit management company, and was on the boards of the Pike School and A Better Chance, all in Andover, Mass. He leaves his wife, Nancy Jeton, 32 Birch Ln., Cumberland Foreside, ME 04110; two children; and a brother, Marc Jeton ’78.

’74 C

Robert E. Heilman Jr., 64, a restaurateur, died March 23, 2021 in Clearwater, Fla. Born in Clearwater, Bob came to Choate in 1972; he played league sports and was in the German Club. After graduating from Cornell’s School of Hotel Management, he worked in the family restaurant, Bob Heilman’s Beachcomber, in Clearwater Beach, which had been started by his father. In 1984, Bob took over ownership, later opening a bistro and wine bar. Bob was a past president of the Florida Restaurant Association. He enjoyed food, music, wine (he started his own label, FoxyRock) and reading.

He leaves his wife, Sheri Heilman, 2343 Kings Point Dr., Largo, FL 33774; three children; three grandchildren; and three step-grandchildren.

’69 After earning degrees from Princeton and MIT, George Hazen worked to develop one of the first sailboat velocity prediction programs and designed the Boston Whaler Harpoon 5.2 daysailer. With a partner, he developed software that later became FastShip, a pioneering program used worldwide by ship designers and builders.

BULLETIN | FALL 2021 49

’79 Evan J. Reed, 60, an investment counselor, died May 9, 2021 in Miami, Fla. Born in Danbury, Conn., Evan came to Choate Rosemary Hall in 1975; he lettered in football, was Sports Editor of the News, and was in the Gold Key Society. He earned degrees from Denison and Columbia, and worked in New York for Citibank, later moving to Miami and joining the Bank of America’s Private Wealth department. Evan loved art and was a pioneer in the banking field of art lending. He also enjoyed tennis, skiing, and travel, and was on the boards of the Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami, and the Miami Children’s Museum. He leaves his wife, Stefanie Reed, 2465 So. Bayshore Dr., Apt. 504, Miami, FL 33133; two children; a brother; and a sister. ’82 Philip Wang, 55, an advertising executive, died May 8, 2020. Born in Silver Spring, Md., Phil, whose family was in the foreign service, spent his childhood in Laos, Hong Kong, the Philippines, and Germany, coming to Choate in 1979; he lettered in volleyball; was in the Cum Laude Society; and was active in dramatics, winning a School theater prize. After graduating from Tufts, Phil spent many years in advertising, ending as Senior Vice President of Brand and Advertising at Wells Fargo Bank. He enjoyed skiing, golf, and tennis. He leaves his wife, Pamela Wang, 64 Milano Court, Danville, CA 94526; two daughters; and two sisters. ’02

Gretchen Neison Duarte, 36, a social work executive, died March 23, 2021. Born in Honesdale, Pa., Gretchen came to Choate Rosemary Hall in 1998; she was Senior Page Editor of the Brief, was in the Film Society, and worked with WWEB radio. After earning degrees from the University of Aberdeen (Scotland) and Thomas Edison State University in Trenton, N.J., she was Day Services Manager for the Arc – Farmington Valley, a social service agency, and later was in Eligibility Services for the Connecticut Department of Social Services. Gretchen enjoyed skiing and other outdoor activities. She leaves two children and her mother.

Faculty, Staff, Trustees Robert C. Barber, the School’s Business Manager for 21 years, died April 14, 2021 in Florida. He was 90.

Born in Hartford, Bob graduated from Loomis, then earned degrees from Amherst and Harvard Business School. After spending three years in the Navy, he was a financial executive with Hamilton Standard division of United Aircraft Corp. (now United Technologies) until 1969, when he was hired as Choate’s Controller.

“What I admired most about Bob,” said President and Principal Charley Dey at Bob’s retirement in 1990, “was his willingness to take strong positions and not be intimidated by disagreement. Keeping a place like this afloat financially is no small feat, and Bob, even as the person who says ‘no,’ has earned the admiration and appreciation of our entire community.” Bob took a leading role among independent secondary school business managers. He enjoyed singing (and was in a barbershop quartet for years), walking, birdwatching, and especially collecting and watching classic films.

In retirement he and his wife, the former School Registrar Lynne England, enjoyed buying and renovating houses; she died in 2013. He leaves five children, including Robyn B. Miller ’74; Jeff Barber ’76; Kat England ’78; and Elizabeth England ’84, 8248 Onyx St., Ventura, CA 93004; seven grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

Kathleen S. Cocchiaro, an endowment officer at Choate Rosemary Hall for seven years, died May 1, 2021 of breast cancer in St. Johns, Fla. She was 51.

Born in New Haven, Kathy graduated from North Haven High School, then was a data analyst for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Connecticut. In 2005 she became Manager of Administration Support for Choate’s Endowment, a position she held until 2012. Kathy then returned to Blue Cross as an analyst, and in 2014 moved to Florida.

She enjoyed music and visiting the beach. She leaves her husband, Arthur Cocchiaro, 2868 Foxhunt Trail, St. Johns, FL 32259; three children; and her mother.

Andrée Maitland Dean ’45, a former Rosemary Hall Trustee, died March 15, 2021, in Greenport, N.Y. She was 92. Born in Cedarhurst, N.Y., Andrée came to Rosemary Hall in 1942; she was in the Kindly Club, played first team hockey, and was a cheerleader.

She attended Barnard College, and later earned a degree in art history from Columbia. Andrée then became an art appraiser and purchaser for individuals, companies, and museums.

One of her accomplishments in the art world was acquiring J. M. W. Turner’s masterpiece Wreckers off the Coast of Northumberland for the Yale Museum of British Art. Raised a Republican, she campaigned for her son Howard’s 2004 Democratic presidential campaign and later supported Democratic candidates.

Andrée served as a Rosemary Hall Trustee from 1972 to 1976 and was involved in many volunteer organizations in New York City and East Hampton, L.I. She leaves three sons, 10 grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and a sister. Her mother, the late Sylvia Wigglesworth Maitland ’15, attended Rosemary Hall, as did another sister, the late Sylvia M. Lynch ’45, and a niece, Sylvia Baker ’71.

Howard R. Greene, an educator and Choate Rosemary Hall Trustee for 10 years, died September 12, 2020 in Lakeville, Conn. He was 83. Born in New Haven, Howard earned degrees from Dartmouth, New York University, and Harvard, then was an Associate Dean of Admissions at Princeton. In 1968, he founded a private counseling service, guiding students through secondary school and college to graduate and professional schools. A board member of A Better Chance and Horizons National, which help underserved populations, Howard was a Trustee not only of Choate, from 1998 to 2008, but of the New Canaan Country School, Yale’s Berkeley Divinity School, and the National Endowment of the Arts. He was also a host of PBS programs on educational and financial planning.

He leaves his wife, Laurie Greene, 42 Wildwood Dr., Wilton, CT 06897; four children, including Adam Greene ’82 and Andrew Greene ’05; six grandchildren; and a brother.

William M. Hannon, a driver for the School for 11 years, died March 22, 2021. He was 84. Born in New Britain, Bill served in the Marine Corps. He worked at the Health Center as the School’s driver from 2008 to 2019. Bill especially enjoyed restoring old cars.

He leaves two sons.

Kathleen H. Pedrolini, who worked in the School’s Alumni and Development Office for 44 years, died May 15, 2021 in Meriden of cancer. She was 76.

Born in Meriden, Kathy graduated from Maloney High School and Laurel Business College, then began her Choate career in 1977, retiring this year; most recently, she was Gifts Manager, and her work in that field spurred her support of a number of philanthropic causes, especially involving education.

Kathy enjoyed travel, reading, puzzles, and cooking. She leaves a daughter, a grandson, and a sister.

Shirley Stevens, Laundry Room Manager at Choate Rosemary Hall for more than 20 years, died May 4, 2021 in Branford, Conn. She was 88. Born in Meriden, Shirley was Laundry Room Manager from 1970 to 1991. She enjoyed playing Bingo and was known to have a lucky touch; and she loved spending time with family and friends.

Shirley leaves three children; two grandsons; two great-grandchildren; and a brother.

Our sympathy to the friends and families of the following, whose deaths are reported with sorrow: Gordon F. Allen ’44 May 7, 2021 Mary March Adams ’60 September 1, 2020

50 BOOKSHELF

SCOREBOARD | Spring Sports Wrap-up

GOCHOATE Though there were no interscholastic competitions in the 2020-21 school year, Choate athletes showed their grit, dedication, and teamwork in scrimmages throughout the spring.

BULLETIN | FALL 2021 51

52

SCOREBOARD

BULLETIN | FALL 2021 53

GOCHOATE

1 2 3 4

Alex Hassett ’23, Softball Dylan Allen ’22, Girls Lacrosse Alexa Scarlett ’24, Track and Field Mac Cady ’23, Baseball

5 Hunter Bershtein ’21, Track

and Field 6 Patrick Yowan ’21, Lacrosse 7 Greer Goergen ’21, Tennis

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BOOKSHELF

In this issue, we look at the ways women can approach the unique challenges faced in the realm of finances, and explore the flowing dynamic of New York City as told through haiku.

Lumination: Shining a Light on a Woman’s Journey to Financial Wellness

By Heather Ettinger ’79 | Reviewed by D. Gam Bepko

LUMINATION: SHINING A LIGHT ON A WOMAN’S JOURNEY TO FINANCIAL WELLNESS Author: Heather Ettinger ’79 Publisher: Pyp Academy About the Reviewer: D. Gam Bepko works in the Financial Office and is an author of two books of poetry and short fiction.

According to a 2019 study by New York Life Investments, women control 51 percent of the wealth in the United States, and that number is expected to increase over time. In the last half-century, women have become more powerful financially – they are the primary earner in 40 percent of U.S. households and make up the majority of consumer spending.

Despite these rising numbers, most women are reluctant to talk to a financial adviser about investing and planning for their future, with patronization and feeling misunderstood being the common reasons for their hesitations.

It’s no secret that stressing out over money is a common denominator throughout the general populace, regardless of your gender, age, or belief system. Making sure one has enough funds to cover the rent/mortgage, car payments, credit card bills, utilities, food, any medical or household emergencies that should occur … not to mention planning for your children’s education and retirement – are you overwhelmed yet?

It’s okay – you’re not alone.

For women, all of this can be especially daunting. Women have essentially been taught to let the man handle the money and balance the checkbook.

Talking openly about salaries and financial problems were an absolute no-no. Money has long been a taboo subject, so much so that a good portion of the population is financially illiterate.

While Heather Ettinger ’79’s book Lumination will not teach you about concepts such as guaranteed income contracts and mutual funds, she will introduce you to the Lumination process with the intent of showing women how to take ownership of their finances by shining a light on our relationship with money and the choices we make that drives our attitude and behavior about it.

With over 35 years of experience in the field, Ettinger has long been an authority about financial matters. She has co-authored studies that in essence call out a male-dominated industry for not being more understanding to women’s financial needs.

She is also a highly sought-after speaker at industry events and has been published in the Wall Street Journal and Your Teen Magazine, among other places. Her focus with Lumination is to embolden women to look at their past and present experiences with finances and empower them to make smart decisions for their present and future.

When you sit down to read this book, have a journal and pen handy. At various points she’ll have you writing down memories and making lists. Ettinger has you examine your four energy fields – physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual – so you can further assess what is holding you back and where you can better focus your energies. You may wonder initially what some of this has to do with finances; as it turns out, those energy fields tie in heavily. If you’re not at your best, are you going to make the right decisions, no matter how minor? Chances are, probably not.

Ettinger also shares many stories from her life and from friends and clients of hers. These are stories that most of us can relate to, and one in particular stands out as a cautionary tale of what can happen if you let someone else take the reins of your finances.

On a personal level, I found this book enlightening and plan on giving it a re-read (with a journal and pen at the ready, of course). Not only will Lumination help you understand your relationship with money, but it will also help you explore your behavioral patterns and assist you on your journey to seeking financial wellness.

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Haikus for New York City

By Peter C. Goldmark Jr. ’58 | Reviewed by Alex Ashford Peter C. Goldmark Jr. ’58’s Haikus for New York City is described by DreamWorks co-founder Jeffrey Katzenberg as a book of poems that reveals “the truth under the toughness” and captures the essence of a city that “doesn’t sleep but never tires.” A native New Yorker and accomplished executive, Goldmark began writing poetry at the age of 40 as catharsis – a way to make meaning of the tumult going on around us, especially in light of the COVID pandemic.

In thirty-three 17-syllable haikus, accompanied with wistful, minimalist original illustrations by his daughter, Sandra, Goldmark’s collection traverses America’s most beloved big city with both the passionate, particular eye of a native and the wonder of a tourist. The book begins with the observance of one of the city’s best known landmarks: the “four cabled bridges” that are “lifelines” over the East River. In that same vein, the poems in the first half of the book serve as a sort of “haiku tour” of New York City that touches on the geographical markers most unique to the city: “that statue of the lady in the harbor,” pays homage to Lady Liberty, for example; there’s also a rare city pastoral celebrating the “square but rolling, friendly valley / between concrete cliffs” that is Central Park.

Indeed, my first reading of Haikus transported me back to age 17 when I visited New York City for the first time. It was the summer of 2001 and I was right on the cusp of my senior year of high school.

The two-day journey from Mississippi to my uncle’s place in Flatbush via Greyhound bus was fraught with anxiety and anticipation. I’d heard countless stories about “The Big Apple,” though none of them prepared me for how distinctly and quickly I would fall in love with the city and its quirks. I discovered, for instance,

that it was possible to fall asleep to the steady blarethrob of merengue beating from the night club below my uncle’s apartment. There was also the quicksilver magic perhaps best exemplified when a scorching, stilted day on the block transformed, in the span of a “New York minute,” into a bustling waterpark as fire hydrants spewed fiercely to the joyous adulation of neighborhood children.

“Anyone can go in the parks,” Goldmark writes.

“Everyone comes out.” This is the city that welcomed me into its teeming streets and never-ending music with open arms – the “melting pot,” where anyone and everyone, including me, is welcome. As the second half of the book gains momentum, however, there is a decided shift in tone: “Hope? Despair? Forced courtesy,” the author writes. Here, the nostalgia of the first half of poems gives way to an acknowledgment of the harsh realities of big city life – especially in light of a global pandemic: Covidiously empty / streets, / shutters, / locks – our old city is ill.

The resounding emptiness here feels reminiscent of the overwhelming collective grief into which we would all be plunged on September 11, 2001. And yet, in true New York fashion, the speaker pivots quickly, proclaiming that “If you press hard enough / things will shift, breaks will come.”

The book’s final poems feels like a deep breath at the end of a long trek – a pause in the endless, swirling energy that is New York City. The second to last poem once again turns to a landmark to ground itself in, the wonder of “the full moon / over Prospect Park.”

The last line of the last haiku is a simple, yet genius reminder for tumultuous times: “peace will find you.”

HAIKUS FOR NEW YORK CITY Author: Peter C. Goldmark Jr. ’58 Publisher: Tuttle Publishing About the Reviewer: Alex Ashford teaches English at Choate Rosemary Hall.

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END NOTE |

Lovey Roundtree Oliff ’97and Jessica McMackin Harvill in San Francisco, 2013.

Pictured from left: Lovey’s son Eli, Jessica and son Oliver, and Lovey and son Silas.

Unexpected Bonds In the Fall of 1993, my father and I arrived at the school upon a hillside, and even before exiting our vehicle, a sea of yellow-shirted, smiling students asked, “May I Help You?” I received my welcome packet with a new set of keys. Atwater. I was placed in Atwater. Our guide told us that we were special because I was assigned the smaller third form girls’ dorm. We found our way to the center of campus and began to empty the backseat with all my tweenly possessions. Walking our way up to the second floor … sweaty and slightly out of breath ... we passed the communal phone booth and behind it there was the sign, “Welcome Jessica and Lovey.”

This tall, slender, freckled beauty with long reddish-brown hair stood staring back at me. I was a cherubic (perhaps chubby or wellrounded) Black girl with braids and glinty metal braces that made my smile shimmer in the right light. We both wore clothes that had been (well) loved before us ... thrifting and borrowing was an obvious skill set we had both mastered. I awkwardly introduced myself and then my dad. She did the same with her father standing in the room. After the pleasantries, we returned to the twin tasks at hand-unpacking our personal items in this newly shared space. She removed her Porno for Pyros compact discs as I dug out mixtapes with Boys II Men and En Vogue. I did a double take and asked her about her CDs. She said they were a great group. I admitted I had never heard of them. Immediately, I thought the housing department must not have received my questionnaire. Clearly, someone made a mistake.

Just when I thought I should go back downstairs and find the yellow-shirted people-helpers, our fathers nudged past us and went to work. Jess’s dad seemed ready with his pencil conveniently resting on the crease of his ear with paper in hand in order to sketch out the new floor plan. My dad immediately suggested turning my bed 90 degrees so as to avoid a cold morning draft on my precious head. Jess’s father focused on the best lighting for her desk ... she was an artist and needed the right glow from the sun and moon. We both paused to admire their industry. The joy in their faces made us giggle. Our first moment as new roommates. Our first connection. Our joint realization that we were in the right room, right school, with the best dads.

To this day, I often wonder who was the wiz behind the curtain of rooming assignments? Would I have had the same connection with any other peer from my class? I like to believe that Jess and I had and still have something unique. We were not best friends. We rarely spent time together outside of our room, but when we came home, it was always a fun and meaningful time. We spent late nights playing fast-paced rounds of Spit while singing along with the cast of the Rocky Horror Picture Show. Who else could have taught me the intricate techniques of a Manic Panic dye job? Jess trusted me with her beautiful tresses that changed colors with the seasons. I trusted her with my school crushes and she would sit perched outside the dorm hall window to announce when one of them was walking in between classes. These moments and memories have stayed with me 20 years later.

Most importantly, we respected our differences because there were many. I was from a metropolis with an 8th grade graduating class that outnumbered her entire K-8 school. She was (and still is) an artist. She could sketch my visage with such detail while I was still working on perfecting my stickman. I was involved in school theater and student government and she preferred strolling through nature during her free time. Amazingly, she currently works for Pixar and I currently have a podcast and sit on my local government’s select board. Just as we were in high school, we aren’t BFFs, but the bond we have is meaningful and has lasted a lifetime. Our children have met, I have visited her at the Pixar studios, and the relationship we have is a true gift.

When friends and family ask what was the best part about attending Choate, I always go back to the people. The Tony Hodginses and Gail Silverbergs of the faculty, the Monica St. Jameses of advisors, the Ray Diffleys of building community, and the Jessica McMackin Harvills of roommates, classmates, and lifelong friends. These connections cross the boundaries of space, place, and time to truly make the school motto live on: Forever True to Gold and Blue.

Lovey roundtree Oliff ’97 Lovey Roundtree Oliff ’97 lives in Exeter NH with her two sons, Eli and Silas and her husband Matt. She is a Select Board member for the Town of Exeter. Lovey has also spent and enjoyed the last two years coaching Girls Squash and Girls JV Tennis at Phillips Exeter Academy. The last year she created and produced her own Podcast (The PodCaste System with Lovey) with the help of fellow Choate alum, Jessica Fritz Aguilar ’96 and her husband’s Media company – Clovercrest Media.

DURING A YEAR UNLIKE ANY OTHER,

the Choate Rosemary Hall community of donors united – stepping up in incredible ways, all in shared support of our students, faculty, and staff.

Through the collective generosity of more than 3,300 alumni, parents, grandparents, and friends, the Annual Fund raised more than $6.8 million.

Donors to the Annual Fund open the doors that foster curiosity in classrooms, grit on the athletic fields, passion on the stage, and vibrancy in campus life. For your ongoing role in making this School the remarkable place that it is, please accept our heartfelt gratitude.

Thank you to all who came together in support of our School!

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USPs honors Cuban painter Emilio Sanchez ’39 On the centennial of his birth, the United States Postal Service released a Forever Stamp commemorating Emilio Sanchez ’39 (1921–1999), recognizing his colorful artwork and architectural paintings. “The Postal Service is pleased to salute Emilio Sanchez, an artist best known for his brilliant collection of architectural paintings and lithographs,” said USPS Board of Governors Vice Chairman Roman Martinez IV. Sanchez is the first Cuban American artist to have his work honored on a U.S. postage stamp.

The Choate Rosemary Hall Bulletin is printed using vegetable-based inks on 100% post consumer recycled paper. This issue saved 101 trees, 42,000 gallons of wastewater, 291 lbs of waterborne waste, and 9,300 lbs of greenhouse gases from being emitted.