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THE MAROON & GREY The Official CFS Community Connection

WINTER 2013

Farming is Back: Solar Energy Harvested Daily In January, following more than two years of persistent efforts, CFS fully energized its brand new solar array to harvest “clean and green” energy to power its campus. The 1.1 megawatt solar installation on five acres of school land ushers in a new era of harnessing nature’s abundance at the school and returns CFS to a leadership role in offering environmentally responsible and sustainable programs. “Taking real and meaningful action that commits us to clean, renewable energy sources like the sun sends a strong message to our students and local community that CFS remains serious about environmental sustainability and energy conservation,” says Head of School,The Reverend Edmund K. Sherrill. “Our students have a real life laboratory to explore and learn more about their energy future. That we reduce our energy costs along the way is an added bonus since it will redirect dollars spent on energy to our school’s mission that provides such a great education at little to no cost.” Admiring Church Farm School’s vast solar array are Ned Sherrill, Head of School, Adam Centeno ’13, Connor Gibbons ’14 and Neil Fanelli, Director of Finance and Operations. All are invited to the project’s official celebration on Friday, April 26th at 4:00 p.m., which will also kick-off Alumni Reunion Weekend. The array will reduce CFS’s reliance on more expensive energy by 75%.

Mr. Sherrill noted the school’s heritage of environmental sustainability and connection to the land remains a strategic imperative and one of the five major goals adopted by the CFS Board of Directors in its most recent strategic plan. He explained the initiatives have fully engaged students, faculty and the entire Community in greater resource conservation within a program that includes hydroponics, bio-fuel production and similar student oriented projects.

Mr. Neil Fanelli, CFS Director of Finance & Operations and leader of the solar project, explained that power generated from the array will reduce reliance on more costly electricity by 75% annually. “Savings from use of clean solar energy over the 20 year life of the system are expected to be many hundreds of thousands of dollars, while achieving significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.” Mr. Sherrill adds that Mr. Fanelli deserves high praise for heading up a two year long effort to implement the solar program. The Philadelphia Area Independent School Business Officers Association (PAISBOA) was instrumental in encouraging CFS and four other local independent schools to pursue grants awarded from the Pennsylvania Solar Energy Program. Hudson Energy Solar Corporation will own and operate the projects. A grand celebration of the Solar Energy Project’s completion will be held on Friday, April 26th at 4:00 p.m.

Rebranding CFS Bart Bronk ’96 As part of the school wide strategic planning process that culminated in 2011, the CFS Board of Directors, at its January 2012 meeting, endorsed the administration’s recommendation to return to using the School’s original name: The Church Farm School. For nearly two decades, CFS had done business as CFS, The School at Church Farm. The return to our original (and legal) name both affirmed the school’s commitment to the ideals and mission so elegantly and simply framed by our founder, and to simplify marketing and branding efforts. Simply put, the “new” name was a mouthful – and, over time, proved to be neither materially nor measurably different in impact than the original moniker. Perhaps the ultimate evidence of this was that, despite repeated remonstration, the local newspapers never stopped referring to the school as “Church Farm.” Coinciding with this return, the school sought to capitalize on an opportunity to rethink its visual identity and presence in the marketplace. As the school’s reputation as not only a world-class college preparatory institution, but also one that is truly unique among its peers, has grown, the need for a clear, modern, distinctive and evocative visual identity became clear. A comprehensive branding initiative was launched last spring as representatives from Kelsh Wilson Design, the firm responsible for CFS’s award-winning viewbook, Experience the Difference, conducted focus groups with students, faculty and staff, and parents to determine not only what images and visuals were strongly associated with CFS, but also those shared values that a new logo should endeavor to convey. Throughout the summer and fall, Kelsh Wilson produced a range of sketches which were refined and culled until there were two clear finalists: logos featuring iconic representations of the CFS Griffin and the CFS Chapel of the Atonement. Kelsh Wilson presented these options to the collected school community in December, after which online voting commenced. In addition to students, faculty (Continued on page 2)

Sam Ballam Retires from CFS Board of Directors Sam Ballam shows off the grand CFS Griffin mascot he made possible during the September 2011 dedication of the bronze statue. Already, like the Chapel and the bell, the Griffin is a beloved icon that greets students and visitors alike on the campus’s south side. An article about Mr. Ballam’s retirement begins on page two.

New Projects Highlight Science Curriculum Dr. Rob Broadrup, Science Department Chair, can’t sit still for two seconds when talking about new initiatives. There is the Monarch Sister School Program, which involves CFS biology and chemistry students and Mexican students in the restoration of the flyway and habitat of the Monarch butterfly.

Dr. Rob Broadrup discusses current projects with this AP Chemistry students. Dr. Broadrup emphasizes the importance of undertaking “real world,” hands-on projects whenever possible and favors those linked to sustainable energy and the native plant movement.

It works this way: The Mexican students are planting oyamel tree seedlings to reforest a reserve near their school. At the same time, CFS students are researching native plants and will create a butterfly garden in the spring with the goal of recreating native habitats for the threatened Monarch population along its migratory “flyway” between Mexico and Canada. This effort, explains Dr. Broadrup, is part of the Native Plants Movement, designed to replant areas that once supported this majestic creature. His advanced placement chemistry students are researching early blooming plants, and the nearby Jenkins Arboretum has donated a truckload of native bloomers waiting for planting weather. Other students are experimenting with Aquaponics, a cutting edge system that involves the combination of fish rearing and hydroponics. The boys are creating environments in which water populated by fish in tanks is circulated into a tank where plants are growing. The plants filter waste from the water as vital nutrients with the help of beneficial bacteria, and the “purified” water is then re-circulated back to the animals. Another initiative that will keep Dr. Broadrup and the students “buzzing” is the Native Pollinator Project in partnership with urban beekeeper, Don Shump of the Philadelphia Bee company. Some students will study what insects pollinate which plants, for surprisingly little data on this topic exists. Others will delve into the study of fermentation, breaking down plant materials into their components, which will teach them more about renewable bio-fuel technologies. “Our science curriculum is focused on integrating meaningful experiments and projects into our studies so that students can apply concepts learned in class to their daily lives, and so that they gain the conceptual foundations necessary to promote future innovations in our world,” concludes Dr. Broadrup.

Griffin News From The Head February 2013 Dear Friends, Alumni and Parents, In this edition of the The Maroon & Grey you will find ample evidence of a thriving School community working hard and well to live up to its good name. And that name stands as tall and proud today as it has for ninety-five years. Above all, it is the interests of the boys and their development as young men that we serve in mission. Raising boys continues to lead our work in mind, body and spirit and you will not have to look far to see evidence of this within these pages. Today’s Griffins are bright, talented, curious and bold, ready to assume their rightful place in the world as responsible citizens. They are of many faiths and traditions, yet the sound industry and lively conversations in which they are engaged with their teachers and one another is beautiful to behold and we continue to strive forward faithfully, always looking for that next opportunity or moment in which we cannot only be enriched, but serve the greater, common good. The Rev. Edmund K. Sherrill II Head of School

My friend, George Kline ’59, reminds me that he still weeps over the end of dairy farming at CFS, yet he was thrilled to learn that we are applying modern technological advances, like solar power, in service as much to education as to the electric bill. Moreover, an expanding science curriculum at all levels is engaging boys not only in their study of concepts, but leading them into meaningful, direct application for more responsible and sustainable living. Hard work is plainly evident in many places, perhaps none more so that the athletic arena where we are enjoying great success in our first year of competition in the Bicentennial Athletic League. We hope you are following us on Twitter! The communication age has blessed this generation with abundant and instant access to information around the globe and we are adapting our schedule and way of learning together in order to enter this lively conversation more directly, experientially and, therefore, purposefully. The boys are shaping their intellectual talents under the careful guidance of competent, engaging and caring teachers who are actively involved as perpetual learners themselves. And we are more and more at home together in the cottages where daily lessons are given greater meaning and context within the patterns of common life. The image and tag line by which we seek to represent ourselves to a wide audience of potential students, as well as past, present and future friends, may have changed, but it is our belief that this image and understanding speak highly of our great heritage and unchanging mission, one so many of you know well, as the School seeks to step confidently into a bright and promising future. Thank you for every ounce of support you offer this exciting and rewarding endeavor. With warm regards and thanks,

Group reflects on program’s impact while looking forward to the future With the Ethical Leadership Program in the third year of a three year cycle, the CFS Ethical leadership team, composed of students, faculty and staff, reflected on the Program’s significant accomplishments to date and looked forward to the future at a breakfast roundtable in early December. Peter Hamilton, a former CFS Board Member who brought the Ethical Leadership Program to the School, facilitated the discussion. Ned Sherrill, Head of School was also present.

Gathering after the Ethical Leadership Program roundtable were: (Front row, from left) Edward Kim ’16, Ms. Rebecca Lee (English faculty), Mohammed Bappe ’15, Ms. Julie Wickland (Assistant to the Head of School), and Hermes Paez ’13; and (Back row, from left) Mr. Ned Sherrill (Head of School), Mr. Doug Magee (History Faculty), Seo Ho Yi ’14, Mr. N. Peter Hamilton, Fred Amoyaw ’13, and Mr. Chuck Watterson (Director of Student Life).

Administered by the Institute for Global Ethics and driven by faculty member Doug Magee, the Ethical Leadership Program has provided this very diverse school with a common language in which to describe its most closely held values—responsibility, integrity, respect and brotherhood. During the roundtable, all agreed that the Program has made a critical impact on the School, should be continued, and should be shared with other school communities. Students felt that the program has focused the entire School on values and leadership. They noted that Cottage Prefects have sought meaningful conversations within the cottages about the challenges students face as well as the positive aspects of their lives. Mr. Magee added that constant learning has become the norm in both the student and adult communities.

Sam Ballam Retires from Board of Directors Longtime member and former Board Chairman steps down but will remain active at CFS “To refuse Jim Buck’s invitation to join the CFS Board of Directors would have been like saying ‘no’ to your father,” recalls Sam Ballam, who at the age of 41 in 1991, was tapped for his youth and experience by an older generation of philanthropists and civic leaders who oversaw the School at that time. In spite of his youth, Mr. Ballam was well qualified. With an undergraduate degree in Finance from University of Miami and an MBA in Finance and Accounting from Northwestern University, Sam had served as Treasurer of Thomas Jefferson University and thereafter as Senior Vice President of Finance and CFO of Main Line Health. Today he is a Partner with Cooke and Bieler, a Philadelphia based investment firm. Mr. Ballam said yes to Mr. Buck and the Board. He spent his first year listening and learning during regular Board meetings held at the downtown Philadelphia Racquet Club. Later, Tyler Griffin, then Board Chair, asked him to head a task force to create a program that would admit a small number of day students. Soon thereafter, Mr. Griffin invited Mr. Ballam to serve as the Board’s first Vice-Chairman, clearly in preparation for a larger role. He became Chairman when Mr. Griffin retired from the position in 2001. These were years of tremendous growth and change, and Mr. Ballam met new challenges through

The Reverend Edmund K. Sherrill II Head of School

Rebranding CFS

Ethical Leadership Committee Meets with Benefactor

(Continued on page 3)

(Continued from page 1)

and staff, alumni of the school and parents were invited to voice their opinions on the finalists. In the end some 340 votes were cast, and a mere 16 votes separated the two options. After reviewing the voting results and reading the thoughtful feedback, Headmaster Ned Sherrill and the administrative team agreed with the popular consensus (no electoral controversy here): the Chapel icon was selected. The team also chose a new tagline, which speaks dually to the type of boys CFS seeks to educate, and the outcomes of that education: Inspiring Boys – Fulfilling Dreams. Recently, Rev. Sherrill reflected on the selection: “The iconic image of the Chapel of the Atonement communicates clearly and poignantly the moral, ethical, and spiritual framework in which we endeavor to educate students. The Chapel is where our boys first assemble together to open each school year. It is where our community gathers weekly for spiritual reflection and community building. It is where our boys have faithfully performed our timeless Christmas Pageant for nearly 90 years. And, of course, the Chapel is where we share laughter and tears as our seniors receive their diplomas and blessings before leaving Church Farm for college and life beyond. As such, it is a powerful symbol of the special journey that each Church Farm student takes during his years in Exton, and the indelible connection shared by generations of students, from the Aggies of yesteryear to the Griffins of tomorrow. It is a landmark on campus, and will forever be a landmark in their hearts. Truly, I can think of no better image to represent the special community of people that is The Church Farm School.” Though the current students favored the Griffin logo, they will not be disappointed: Kelsh Wilson is finalizing a new Griffin logo for athletic purposes, which will be featured on t-shirts, hats, and uniforms. Look for our fierce new “Griffin Head” in issues to come!

The Maroon & Grey

Griffin News CFS Warmly Welcomes Three New Directors to Board

Sam Ballam Retires (Continued from page 2)

Gary Schlarbaum

the ensuing decade, passing the baton in 2011, when Mark Carroll assumed the Chairmanship. During Mr. Ballam’s tenure, term limits were established Sam Ballam’s love of surfing has for all Directors, and taken him all over the world. Here a he oversaw the transi- formidable wave chases him in Playa tion in Head of School Grande, Costa Rica. leadership. He subsequently continued his Board service as Chair of the Governance Committee. On his watch, five new Directors joined the Board over the past twelve months, and the Board completed a comprehensive self-evaluation.

Gary G. Schlarbaum was elected to the Board of Directors at its September meeting. A graduate of Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, he also holds a doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School. Dr. Schlarbaum began his career as a Professor of Finance at Purdue University from 1969 to 1984. There his academic research focused on portfolio performance measurement and the behavior of individual investors. From 1984 to 1987, he translated his academic theories into practice at First Chicago Investment Advisors (currently Brinson Partners, part of UBS).

Mr. Sherrill with Ruthanne and Gary Schlarbaum at the Pageant reception

Moving to Philadelphia in 1987, he joined Miller Anderson and Sherrerd LLP where he successfully managed the MAS Small Cap Value Fund. Under his tenure, MAS Small Cap Value Fund’s investment performance consistently ranked in the top deciles among its Small Cap peer universe. When the firm was acquired by Morgan Stanley in 1995, he became a managing director of Morgan Stanley where he continued to manage equity portfolios, equity portfolio managers, and served as a member of the management committee of Morgan Stanley Asset Management. He retired from Morgan Stanley in 2002, and he is currently Chief Investment Officer of Palliser Bay Capital Management. Dr. Schlarbaum and his wife Ruthanne live in Villanova and have two children and five grandchildren. Recently elected a “Lifetime Trustee” of Coe College, Dr. Schlarbaum currently serves on the Board of Trustees of the Independent Institute and the Board of Directors of the Pennsylvania Trust Company. He belongs to Ithan Episcopal Church in Villanova.

The Rev. Canon Preston B. Hannibal

Mr. Ballam’s commitment to the arts inspired him to bestow on the School a magnificent six-foot bronze Griffin that welcomes students and visitors to the CFS campus. Dedicated in September 2011, The Griffin sculpture immediately became a beloved icon, already the focus of most student and family photographs. “I leave the Board knowing that my gift funded a longterm campus meeting spot,” he says. Although he rotated off the Board in January 2013, Mr. Ballam will continue to be involved on the newly formed Leadership Council. He may also pursue other activities and interests including spending more time with his wife, Susan, their three sons and two grandchildren. He will also continue to engage in his life-long passion for surfing, a sport he has pursued around the world.

The Rev. Canon Preston B. Hannibal, Canon for Academic and Transition Ministries in the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, has joined the CFS Board of Directors. As Canon, he serves as the liaison between the bishop’s office and the 20 schools associated with the diocese. Notably, he is co-founder of the Bishop John T. Walker School for Boys, the newest school in the Diocese of Washington. Its mission and ministry are to serve the boys of low income families who would not ordinarily have a chance to attend a school of its caliber.

CFS Board of Directors Mark T. Carroll P’00 & ’01 Chairman and President

Born in New York City, Mr. Hannibal grew up in Los Angeles, California. He graduated from Westmont College and earned his Masters of Divinity degree from Bexley Hall Seminary. He has also done graduate study in theology at Fitzwilliam College, Cambridge University. He has been a visiting scholar at St. Edmund’s College, Cambridge, England, where he studied the life and ministry of the Rt. Rev. Samuel Ajayi Crowther, the first African bishop in the Anglican Communion.

Stephen A. Loney, Esq. ’97 Secretary Richard H. Gherst II Treasurer

The Rev. Canon Preston B. Until June 2003, Mr. Hannibal was Senior Chaplain and Chair of the Religion DepartHannibal ment at St. Mark’s School in Southborough, Massachusetts. Before his appointment to St. Mark’s in July 1995 he was, for nine years, the associate minister in the Memorial Church and University Chaplain at Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts. From 1999 to 2012 Hannibal held an appointment as affiliated minister in the Memorial Church, Harvard University. He is a member of the Episcopal Church’s Office of Black Ministries, Clergy Recruitment, Training, and Development Committee; the Governing Board of the National Association of Episcopal Schools; and the board of the Council for American Private Education, Washington, D.C. Chapter.

Mr. Hannibal and his wife, Sandi, an administrator at Norwood School, an independent school in Bethesda, Maryland, have three grown children.

John P. Kirwin, Parent ’02 New Board Member John Kirwin, father of Alex Kirwin ’02, is a Founding Partner of Argosy Capital, a private investment firm founded in 1990 which currently manages $550 million. His experience encompasses a successful track record investing private equity in more than 70 middle market operating companies and 60 real estate joint ventures. He has been a member of the Board of Directors of four public companies, including Neoware, Inc., a King of Prussia, Pennsylvania business acquired by Hewlett Packard.

Winter 2013

Matthew J. Burns P’10 Gregory W. Coleman Samuel B. Cupp, Jr. P’02 Stephen Darby Kermit S. Eck Sally N. Graham The Rev. Canon Preston B. Hannibal John P. Kirwin P’02 Stacey Shreiner Kley John Pickering Gary G. Schlarbaum Cannie C. Shafer Walter K. Smith ‘86 Norman Strate

Honorary Members Samuel H. Ballam III Charles A. Ernst Morris Kellett, Esq. Gibbs Lamotte William H. Molloie ’82 Erwin P. Roeser ’41 Robert G. Rogers, Jr. Jesse D. Saunders James Tate ’52 Christopher H. Washburn

Prior to founding Argosy Capital, he practiced corporate law, specializing in mergers and acquisitions. For nine years, he was a Partner with McCausland, Keen and Buckman where he worked extensively on public and private securities offerings, as well as venture capital and buyout transactions. Mr. Kirwin is a 1978 graduate of Dickinson College, magnum cum laude. He earned a JD, Order of the Coif, from George Washington University’s National Law Center in 1981. He and his wife Minnie live in East Fallowfield and belong to the Episcopal Church of the Trinity, Coatesville. In addition to Alex, they have two daughters, Beatrix and Caroline.

Rev. Edmund K. Sherrill II Head of School

John P. Kirwin P’02

Griffin News From the Development Office William B. Dietrich Foundation Issues Landmark Challenge Anyone who has ever attended the Pageant, a choir concert, or a CFS graduation has heard the amazing music of the School’s historic M. P. Möller organ in the Chapel of the Atonement. Those with tender ears, however, have noticed that, in spite of Music Director Gary Gress’s skill in overcoming its defects, the organ needs significant repairs.

to maintain the Console, which, today, is worth upward of $1,000,000. Even so, there would be many problems with the organ’s functions.

The organ has a rich history! Within ten years of the Church Farm School’s 1918 founding, The Rev. Dr. Charles W. Shreiner, Founder and first Headmaster, built the Chapel of the Atonement at the center of the emerging campus. Certainly, there were many other critical needs around the housing and education of boys from low income, single parent families and the creation of a working farm to support this mission, but “The Colonel” was determined to make worship the center of life at Church Farm School.

Two years ago, it was evident further deterioration must be prevented and CFS turned to Master Pipe Organ Builder, Colin M. Walsh of Sharon Hill, The Chapel of the Atonement, a place of worship and Pennsylvania. He studied the reflection for hundreds of students through two centuinstrument and assured the ries, stands today as a beloved symbol of Church Farm School that, with advanced School’s mission and dedication to the education of detechnology, the Console could serving and promising boys. Its maintenance and that of the organ are critical to the continuation of many CFS be repaired and would out-per- traditions including religious services, the Pageant and form its predecessors. The full graduation. cost of the repairs is $79,468, a price tag that is out of the question for a School with a mission dedicated to providing generous scholarships to low income students.

Consecrated in 1928, CFS’s Chapel was designed by Milton Medary, considered the leading American Gothic architect of his time. Roland Taylor, a Church Farm School Director, told Dr. Shreiner to acquire the finest organ he could find, and, ultimately, Mr. Taylor donated an Aeolian pipe organ, an extraordinary contribution that initiated a rich tradition of incomparable organ and choral music at The Church Farm School. In 1963, thirty-five years after its consecration, the Chapel was enlarged and stands today as it did then. The renovation and a new M. P. Möller organ console, which houses portions of the original organ, were the gifts of John T. Dorrance, then a Director of the School. As a result organ music has continued to enrich Church Farm School’s distinctive weekday and Sunday services and graduation, as well as music department performances and the school’s annual Christmas Pageant, a historic piece, still performed by the students each December.

Enter the William B. Dietrich Foundation, a Philadelphia foundation with a unique dedication to historic preservation and community life. In response to an urgent request, the Foundation issued a stunning challenge: Raise $39,468 by February 28, 2013, and the William B. Dietrich Foundation will contribute the remaining $40,000 to complete the project and save the M. P. Möller Console Organ.

The Board of Directors and administration have enthusiastically embraced the William B. Dietrich Foundation Challenge and pledge to do their upmost Fifty years later, time has taken its toll, and the M. P. Möller Console must be to fulfill its conditions. According to Mr. Sherrill, “It is our sacred obligation to rebuilt. From 2000-2006, CFS spent $80,000 to keep the organ functioning. preserve the Möller Console, as much a symbol of CFS as books, computers Today, without repairs, the School would expect similar periodic expenses and sports equipment, for future generations of students.”

Guests and Students Mingle at Griffin Scholars Luncheon

Mr. Sherrill and some of the Griffin Scholars waited to receive guests and escort them to lunch.The new Griffin Scholars program is growing significantly this year.

The CFS Griffin Scholars Program, which honors the gifts of individual and corporate donors with an opportunity to meet the student(s) they support, not only encourages student scholarships but also allows contributors to experience the School’s mission firsthand by getting to know a student either through a letter or by attending a Griffin Scholars luncheon.

As an example, new friendships were created, and old ones strengthened at the October 2012 Griffin Scholars Luncheon. Stories of young and old lives were joyfully shared, and one student-sponsor card game lasted all afternoon. Sponsors look forward to the spring luncheon on April 10, 2013.

Tax Credit Program Support More Than Triples Thanks to many corporations in the greater Philadelphia area, scholarship support for qualified CFS students through the traditional Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program (EITC) and the new Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit Program (OSTC) has more than tripled. According to Head of School Ned Sherrill, “We are especially thrilled about this additional support, since our most deserving Pennsylvania students are directly affected.”

CFS Roundtables Attract New Friends A series of roundtable conversations with The Rev. Ned Sherrill, Head of School, was inaugurated by the Board of Directors this year to introduce new friends to Church Farm School. • In October, a group of friends and Directors gathered in the Chapel to hear CFS Music Director Gary Gress play the M. P. Möller Organ and describe the necessary renovations to the console.

“Dinner and a Basketball Game,” the third CFS roundtable attracted 22 Board Members and their friends. Prior to departing for the CFS vs. Devon Prep game, Mr. Sherrill introduced Athletic Director Greg Thompson while guest Mike Cappelletti looked on.

• A roundtable on the Arts at CFS, held in November, allowed friends and supporters to hear presentations by art and music teachers Kevin Korb, Aaron Schnittman, Gary Gress and Nicole Campbell and tour the various campus studios and arts venues. • In January, it was time for dinner and a basketball game. CFS Director of Athletics Greg Thompson and basketball coach Marc Turner made remarks prior to a rousing game against Devon Prep. Final Score: CFS 70 - Devon Prep 51.

While companies snapped up EITC credits in early July 2012, more than $37,000,000 remains available through the OSTC program which specifically supports students who reside in neighborhoods with failing schools. Similar to the EITC Program, donors receive a 90% tax credit when contributions are made to approved scholarship organizations like CFS for two consecutive years. Church Farm School currently enrolls 20 boys who are eligible for OSTC scholarships and hopes to have each covered by the end of the fiscal year on June 30, 2013. Representatives of EITC/OSTC companies attend the biannual Griffin Scholars luncheons as well as an annual Corporate Recognition Breakfast. Companies wishing information about the Pennsylvania OSTC program may contact Suzette Baird (sbaird@ gocfs.net or 610.363.5383) for assistance with the on-line application.

Guests at the Arts Roundtable admired the new gallery installations in the Connector. From left are guest Keith Pension (pointing); Art Department Chair Kevin Korb; student Kemarni Monroe ’13; student Po Sung Kim ’13; guest Daniel Russoniello; and guest Carlyn Darby.

The roundtables are an excellent way to learn more about Church Farm School, its exceptional college preparatory programs and its unique mission to underserved students. Math and science will be highlighted at the fourth roundtable on April 16th. Anyone wishing to attend this final 201213 roundtable is welcome to contact Suzette Baird (610.363.5383 or sbaird@ gocfs.net).

The Maroon & Grey

Griffin News CFS Athletes Make Strong Showings in BAL Competition Cross Country

Varsity Soccer

Griffins score best finish ever in Districts

Varsity soccer qualifies for playoffs in first BAL season

The 2012 CFS Cross Country Team, coached by Tony Wrice, finished 4th in the Constitution Division of the Bicentennial Athletic League with an overall dual meet record of 8-9. Freshman Slam Dunkley finished 29th overall in the BAL championships with a time of 18:38, which placed him on the All BAL 2nd Team! At the The 2012 Cross Country team, utilizing new course on District 1 Championships, as a the grounds of Exton Park, finished the season with a team the Griffins finished in 6th home record of 6-0. The team finished in sixth place at place, which was the highest finDistrict championships, its highest placement ever. ish ever in District competition! The team relied on Armond Owens, Maxwell Drexler, Christopher Arbogast, and Christopher Lowry to lead a young group of runners. With over 30 students running in the fall, senior Chris Arbogast, sophomore Osiris Nicholson, freshmen Nysir Griffin and Slam Dunkley were the top finishers throughout the season. Running on a new cross-country course on the grounds of Exton Park, the team did not lose a single dual meet finishing with a home record of 6-0!

The 2012 Varsity Soccer team, under the direction of Coach Randy Noll, experienced a successful first season in the Bicentennial Athletic League, qualifying for the playoffs and finishing one phantom penalty kick short of a division championship. Season highlights included successful conversion to a zonal defensive alignAlthough eleven team members graduated last year,Varment, a 2nd place district finish, a sity Soccer finished the season one phantom penalty kick 2-1 win over division champion short of a division championship, and three team memDevon Prep, a two-goal come- bers earned all-conference awards. All this occurred in from-behind tie versus Calvary, a Coach Randy Noll’s first season at Church Farm School! last-minute-game-winning goal by junior Nick Thomas versus Calvary to clinch a playoff berth, and the satisfying experience that comes from knowing what it feels like to invest fully in a complete team concept. After graduating eleven seniors from the 2011 season, not many had expectations of earning a playoff berth. So this was a team that, in many respects, overachieved by nearly winning its division and qualifying for the playoffs, eventually losing to the number one seed Faith Christian. Senior captain Fred Amoyaw and junior captains Nick Thomas and Miles Bernhard led the way in all three parts of the field, each earning all-conference awards.

Golf Energetic play characterizes 2012 Varsity and JV golf seasons Coach Eric Fulmer’s Golf Team saw a wealth of new, young, and committed players, which led to the formation of our first JV golf team. The team played a tough schedule against formidable BAL opponents as well as some familiar non-league foes. Team captain Tanner Pinheiro qualified for the district competition by finishing tenth in the BAL championship. The team also benefitted from young players like Steven Yuh who served as our second golfer for most of the season. Overall, the team worked extremely hard to compete and improve throughout the year as they played a number of new courses and opponents.

New and returning golfers made it a terrific season for the 2012 Varsity and new JV golf teams. The teams explored new courses, and a player qualified for district competition. Additionally, team members more than held their own in the eleventh annual CFS Golf Classic.

CFS Golf Classic: Recipe for a Great Day Bring 100 avid golfers to the rolling greens of the Coatesville Country Club. Add in the CFS Choir, generous sponsors, two terrific meals, a cocktail reception, a sparkling awards ceremony, and you have the CFS Golf Classic, one of the area’s premier tournaments. For the eleventh straight year, the September Classic brought together friends, parents, and alumni from near and far to raise scholarships for CFS students, who expressed their gratitude by helping out on the course all day.

Cecil and Peggy Hengeveld ’64

Tanner Pinheiro ’14, Captain of the CFS Golf Team

Members of the CFS Senior Class

Winter 2013

Guest Tim Kelly

Guest and Golf Committee Member, Jeff Simon

Foursome (from left) Sue Bagosy, Sue Mingey, Debbie Doyle and Robin Puccino.

Byron Hutchinson ’84

Sam Cupp, CFS Golf Classic Chairman

Griffin News

The terms “hands on” and “real world” crop up frequently when CFS teachers and administrators talk about science and technology. Engineering, medicine, research, and new discoveries are primary topics where budding chemists, doctors, engineers and scientists learn basic skills. And a “real world” event like the installation of the CFS solar array takes learning to a higher level. The science and technology articles in this issue of The Maroon and Grey take the reader from the classroom to the workplace, focusing on current school projects and alumni excelling in related careers.

Students Practice Sustainable Farming Hydroponics, the science and art of growing plants in water infused with nutrients, is a fascinating adjunct to Jeff Holton’s Environmental Studies curriculum. Mr. Holton explains that students planted lettuce and herbs in water this fall, added the recommended nutrients, made sure the water flow was correct, and were rewarded with living plants that, in turn, may produce their own seeds.

Matt Gehringer ’13 and Michael BrownDiFalco ’14 work in the greenhouse on the hydroponics project.

The project captivated the students. Some liked the sense of responsibility inherent in regulating the nutrients and making sure the plants were healthy. Others saw it as an improvement over traditional farming and a way to grow crops in all seasons. Matt Gehringer ’13 expresses a deeper insight: “The hydroponic systems were to me the beneficial part of the first semester (of Environmental Studies). The project caused me to explore all the abstract ways in which you can approach an issue. It captivated me with the possibilities and applications it could have on a larger scale.”

A tray of beautiful lettuce rewards the students’ efforts in hydroponics this fall.

According to Mr. Holton, the class will start growing plants again before spring vacation, utilizing the lessons of success and failure learned last fall. He points out the importance the new solar array will have in powering the lights and pumps that sustain the plants and that the project has created unexpected, “teachable moments,” especially when students observe the entire cycle. Kasper Bejoian ’14 offers an urban viewpoint: “These activities have opened my eyes to things I have never seen before, considering I’m from New York.”

Renowned Wistar Institute Hosts CFS Students Twelve CFS students, Science Department Chair Dr. Robert Broadrup, and Art Department Chair Mr. Kevin Korb visited The Wistar Institute, the world renowned medical research facility in West Philadelphia, on September 26th. Seymour Preston, a member of the Wistar Board of Directors and a friend of The Church Farm School arranged the visit, during which students received the red carpet treatment from the Wistar staff as they toured laboratories and met with staff members involved in cutting-edge cancer research.

CFS friend Seymour Preston looks on as students visit one of the Wistar Institute’s many research laboratories. Learning about careers in bio-research are (from left) Aiden Go ’14, David Padilla ’14 and Seo Ho Yi ’14.

In the various laboratories, students learned how teams of researchers are painstakingly studying the genetic causes that lead to cancer and developing better preventions and treatments, often creating a drug for an individual patient. Students also met young scientists who spoke to them about their career paths and current research.

Seo Ho Yi ’14 takes a closer look at a slide in one of the Wistar laboratories visited by the students.

AP Biology Students Study DNA Fingerprinting Lynis McCrimmon’s advanced placement biology students took a fascinating in-school field trip in December when Dr. Mike “Darwin” Yerky from Cornell (University) Institute for Biology Teachers (CIBT) spent a day with the class showing students how to use DNA fingerprinting to match children and parents. The process was tedious, consuming many hours, but once the students were able to correctly extract the DNA and other liquids to do the fingerprinting, the results were really interesting—by examining bands of DNA, students could decide, for instance, if a suspected father really belonged to a child.

AP biology teacher Lynis McCrimmon works with students to set up the DNA fingerprinting project. Ms. McCrimmon expressed her gratitude to the Cornell Institute for Biology Teachers (CIBT) for making this unique experience possible for her students.

According to Victor Lee ’14, “The fingerprinting covered the osmosis process that we learned in AP biology because the method we used to fingerprint was to move the thread in the water with the osmotic characteristics of water. The lab also covered the characteristics of chromosomes and the uniqueness of them. We used a micropipette to move tiny amounts of liquids and substances and used the centrifuge to separate the substances for better and clearer experiment results.”

Ms. McCrimmon notes, “The day spent with Dr. Yerky on the DNA project gave her students a remarkable ‘real-world’ experience in using biology to determine relationships or solve crimes. My students would not be able to experience this lab without CIBT. The equipment that is needed for this lab exceeds $10,000. I am ecstatic that this program is available for me to utilize!”

Celebrating the fingerprinting project’s success are: (Front, from left) Sung-Soo Park ’13, Dong Geon Lee ’14, Po Sung Kim ’13, and teacher Lynis McCrimmon; (Back, from left) Chan Wool Kim ’13, Kaiyue He ‘14, Charlie Sidoriak ‘14, Giang Le ‘14 and Dr. Mike “Darwin” Yerky from Cornell.

The Maroon & Grey

Griffin News

Peter Fleetwood ’69 “At CFS, I enjoyed working with the mechanical equipment and still do.” If Peter Fleetwood’s sister hadn’t worked in the Rochester, NY public library where she searched for schools for her brother, he would never have heard of Church Farm School. As it turned out, Peter came to CFS in 1966, and acquired academic, farming and mechanical skills that propelled him into a satisfying and rewarding career. “At first,” he explains, “I didn’t like the school but came to enjoy it very much—I especially liked working with machinery on the farm, and still do in my current job.” In those days the punishment for skipping sports was more farm work, and Mr. Fleetwood did not mind this in the least. Besides operating farm machinery, caring for hogs was his specialty.

Peter Fleetwood ’69 traveled to South Africa for a project sponsored by Engineers without Borders.

President of Bio-Nomic Services in Charlotte, North Carolina, Mr. Fleetwood oversees the operations of this privately held waste management company with projects throughout the U. S. and Canada. His journey after CFS and a year at Syracuse University, took him across the country, working in many jobs in various cities and constantly gaining more experience and responsibility. By now, he has traveled to every state, and, soon after leaving college, he even returned to CFS to work on the farm a little longer. Mr. Fleetwood credits the math and science education he received at CFS as the basis for his success, and recalls taking math from Mr. Schard and physics from Mr. Bennett, a class that particularly fascinated him. Dr. Charles (Dr. Charles Shreiner, then Head of School) was also a powerful influence on him. “Close friendships with classmates made you feel like you belonged,” he says, explaining that he and classmates, Rusty Donohue, Bob Kirgan and James Jarvie got together a few years ago and picked up right where they had left off thirty years ago. Apart from his job, Mr. Fleetwood is interested in clean water, one of our planet’s greatest challenges. To that end, he has tagged along with his son on Engineers without Borders projects, a couple of other excursions to South Africa and South America and is active in the Water Environment Federation. He and his wife Pam live in Fort Mill, South Carolina, a bedroom community of Charlotte, North Carolina, and have two grown sons and two granddaughters ages two and four.

Max Prempeh ’94 “They were four of the best years of my life!” Since those four great years at Church Farm School, Dr. Maxwell Prempeh ’94, who practices internal medicine and cardiology in Georgia, has led an exciting and fulfilling life. He studied pre-medicine at Duke University and then taught for a year at The Masters School in Dobbs Ferry, NY. Subsequently, he returned to Duke for medical school and, upon graduation, spent three years at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania where he specialized in general medicine and interventional cardiology. Dr. Maxwell Prempeh ’94 (right) returned to campus to take part in CFS’s annual Career Night. Here he is shown with Tyrel Watson ’11 at the health sciences career session.

Now a husband and a father, Dr. Prempeh is a partner in a medical group and affiliated with three of the top hospitals in the Atlanta area. He speaks at conferences on his specialty and has traveled extensively. South Africa, England, Zimbabwe, Spain, the Netherlands, and Kenya are some of the countries he has visited. He stopped in at CFS during his years at the University of Pennsylvania and, today, he keeps in close touch with his classmate Dagmawi Woubshet.

Dr. Prempeh was a good student when he entered Church Farm School. However, at CFS, “I learned to be more driven and competitive and to excel,” he says citing teachers Art Smith and John Kistler as strong influences during his four years at the School. He appreciated the close friendships he made along with the hard work and structured activities—a proverbial “man for all seasons,” his senior yearbook page shows numerous involvements in varied clubs with plenty of accolades and awards along the way. Moreover, he excelled in sports, and competed well in basketball, soccer, and track.

Michael Lenau ’08 “As a project engineer it is my job to make decisions every day.” Less than a year ago, Michael Lenau was a senior at the University of Delaware majoring in mechanical engineering. Today he is the lead project engineer on a four million dollar project for his employer Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. (APCI). When his Houston, Texas based project is completed, he will be off to Korea to help complete one of the firm’s global ventures. And this is only the first year of his firm’s three year rotational program. And less than five years ago Mr. Lenau graduated from CFS, where, the second of three brothers to attend the School, he wrestled on Mr. Smith’s team and ran track for Coach Horsey. While he says he was not a natural athlete, his coaches pushed him to do his very best. This spirit, which he says permeates the CFS culture, makes “you mentally tough and resilient.”

Michael Lenau ’08 credits CFS with giving him the focus that allows him to make scores of on-the-job decisions every day in his current assignment as a lead project engineer on an air separation installation.

“I always knew I wanted to be an engineer and received lots of insight in Mr. Otero’s math classes, which I loved,” Mr. Lenau explains, describing how he strove to continuously improve, first at CFS and later at the University of Delaware. With a number of job offers even before graduation, he settled on APCI and its three year rotational program. Currently, he works with a team of ten engineers, coordinating design and construction efforts for an air separation installation. At work, he continually employs a mindset acquired at CFS—“I see every problem as solvable, and don’t give up until we find a solution.” Each day, he makes calculated decisions on the job, gaining experience open to few recent college graduates. “CFS gave me my focus,” Mr. Lenau concludes. “100% of my class went to college, and we were all prepared to do the best that we possibly could.”

Winter 2013

Griffin News CFS Students Excel in DECA Competition Coached by CFS staff member Chris Mazzoli, six CFS students advanced to state competition during the annual DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America) regional competition in King of Prussia. Finalists were Adam Centeno ’13, Rock Ward ’13, Rus Murphy ’15, Ron Scheurmann ’13, and Danny Kim ’17. Paul Ogunleye ’16 took a third place. And the winners are: (Rear row from left) Paul Ogunleye ’16, Ron Scheurmann ’13, Rock Ward ’13, Adam Centeno ’13, Rus Murphy ’15, Danny Kim ’ 17 and (Front Row) Armond Owens ’13.

2012 Make a Difference Day a Success Once again CFS students, staff and alumni, led by Steve Choc ’02, partnered with Weston Solutions, the West Whiteland Township Board and residents on Make a Difference Day. The day’s community service activities were centered in Exton Park behind the School. Along with corporate and community volunteers, the CFS group planted trees and built simple low platforms for the wetter path areas. Weston volunteers and CFS students work together on assembling the “boardwalk” over the damper areas.

Students Receive Book Awards for Highest Averages At the September 7th opening Convocation, CFS students, entering grades eight through twelve, were presented with the annual CFS Book Awards, honoring their high averages at the end of school last year. Celebrating their achievements were (front row, from left) Dong Whui Kim ’16, Po Sung Kim ’13, Edward Kim, ’16, Aiden Go ’14, and Mohammed Emun ’15; (back row, from left) Marcus Pereira ’14, David Padilla ’14, Chinedu Erechukwu ’16, Jeong (Joey) Kim ’15 and Seung Hyung (Mike) Lee ’16. Not pictured is Rock Ward ’13.

Rotary Honors Outstanding Students Each month, the Central Chester County Rotary Club selects a CFS student nominated by the School as Citizen of the Month. David Padilla ’14, Omar Vicente, ’14 and Chris Lowry ’14 received this special honor in October, November and December. Rotarian John Gillespie presented the awards citing each boy for his individual accomplishments and his contributions to the CFS community.

Rotarian John Gillespie of the Central Chester County Rotary Club presented the Citizen of the Month Award to (from left): Rotarian John Gillespie, David Padilla ’14, Omar Vicente ’14 and Chris Lowry ’14.

Race Against Hunger Targets Zimbabwe

Students Shine at Choir Competition

The crisp fall air on Saturday morning, November 10, failed to discourage 30 students from completing the second annual CFS “Race Against Hunger,” an activity which targeted Zimbabwe this year. Chaplain John Daniels, Director of Community Service Programs and Jason Weise spearheaded the race. Funds raised through the race and a dress Front runners Mekael Kassu ’18 and Bayode down day on the preceding Friday conOkusanya ’17 celebrate the completion of stituted the School’s generous donation the Race Against Hunger with Chaplain John to fight hunger in a nation facing devasDaniels. tating food and humanitarian crises.

In November, three choir members auditioned individually for a spot in the District Chorus Festival. Typically, 35-50 students audition for each part. They competed against students from 35 public and private schools in Chester, Delaware and Philadelphia counties, and the gratifying results are: Chanwoo Chong ’14 placed 7th as a Tenor Award winning choir members are (from 2, while Steven Yuh ’16 placed 10th, also as left) Steven Yuh ’16, Chanwoo Chong ’14, a Tenor 2. In addition, Po Sung Kim ’13 will and Po Sung Kim ’13. represent CFS at the 2013 All-East Chorus Festival. He will sing with 350 of the most talented high school singers from Maryland to Maine in April 2013 in Hartford, Conn.

Dueling Pianos Concert Features Mr. Gress The entire student body, staff, and guests enjoyed an amazing musical opportunity when CFS Music Director Gary Gress and Curtis Institute of Music Collaborative Pianist Hugh Sung presented An Evening of Music for Dueling Pianos. The concert featured Mozart’s Sonata for Two Pianos in D and Rachmaninoff’s Suite No. 2 for Two Pianos among other selections. Mr. Gress and Mr. Sung were students together at the Curtis Institute. Mr. Sung is one of the first professional pianists to use computers exclusively to read digital sheet music. During the concert, he used a wireless, handsfree page turner made by his own company AirTurn, Inc.

First CFS Interact Chapter Installed The entire School gathered in the Chapel for the installation of the CFS Interact Chapter this fall. Thirty students currently participate in the new community service organization under the auspices of the Central Chester County Rotary Club. Interact members will complete two community service projects each year, thereby adding to the wealth of community service opportunities that already exist at CFS.

Ceremony participants were (from left): Rotarian John Gillespie, Kelly Swider ’13, Rotarians Randy Schultz and Bob Listerman, Kelechi Umunna ’14, and Rotarian Ted Gacomis.

The Tradition Continues: 88th Pageant Still Inspires Fortunately some things never change, for instance the Pageant. Since 1924, students have told the story of Why the Chimes Rang 88 times, and 2012 was no different. Once again, a hush fell over the Chapel, decorated with pine boughs and lit with candles, as the audience heard the timeless narrative of a priceless gift from the humblest of hands. From left to right: Juda Wilson ’18, as Little Brother, again offered his coin. Crucifer Tim Thomas ’17 opened the drama bearing his cross to the altar. Connor Gibbons ’14 as the Old Shepherd guided Young Shepherd Jeffrey Chen ’18.

The Maroon & Grey

Alumni Happenings Director’s Corner

Alumni Soccer

Hello, All. Head of School Ned Sherrill and I have been ‘out and about’ visiting with individual alums and attending gatherings in major cities this past school year. It brings us great joy to hear the stories of your experiences at CFS as well as what keeps you close to Church Farm and your maroon and grey brothers. It also gives us the opportunity to provide an update of current CFS happenings.

The 2012 CFS alumni soccer squad

Alumni returned to campus the weekend after Labor Day for the traditional alumni vs. student soccer game. Once again the young Griffins out-maneuvered the alumni to post another victory. The impending storm held out just long enough for guests to return to the Dining Center for an early dinner and social gathering. Mark your calendar now for the next alumni soccer game scheduled for September 7, 2013.

We do invite you back for the upcoming Spring Alumni and Reunion Weekend scheduled for April 26-28. Lori McDermott Alumni are encouraged to attend the celebration of Director of Alumni Relations the Solar Farm Project’s completion at 4:00 p.m. on Friday, April 26 followed by a cocktail reception at the Sherrill’s that evening. On Saturday, April 27, alumni are welcomed back for various sporting events, a tour, an alumni association meeting and memorial service. Five-year reunion classes will be recognized at the traditional dinner. This year’s theme will be science and technology-related in celebration of CFS’ five-acre solar array and the interesting projects taking place at the school. You can read more about them on pages one and six and about the accomplishments of alumni in the science field on page seven. I would also like thank everyone who has already given to the 2012-2013 Annual Fund and to those who have contributed to the Organ Challenge. Please note that we need to increase the momentum in order to sustain our 30% alumni participation rate. Through the efforts of Alumni Fund Annual Chair David Zimmerman ’88, Class Agents and members of the Alumni Executive Committee we hope to achieve this goal by the end of our fiscal year, June 30. We are currently approaching 13% alumni giving and are in need of nearly $16,000 to obtain our AF goal of $50,000. Talmadge O’Neill ’86 was kind enough to raise the bar last year. Please continue to do your part. Look Back…Come Back…Give Back. Kind regards,

Chris Hennessy ’04, Ryan Dunbar ’02, Cottage Faculty Eric James, Referee and David Cashmere ’83

Peter Neall ’64 returned for his 48th alumni soccer game.

Lori McDermott Director of Alumni Relations

From The Alumni Association President My Fellow Alumni,

CFS Alumni Association Elected Executive Committee Members Don Burt ’77 President Chimdi Mbonu ’87 Vice-President Peter Goda ’60 Secretary Todd Elliott ’80 Member-at-Large Cecil Hengeveld ’64 Member-at-Large Active Members Steve Choc ’02 Sean Marasco ’98 Tom Phelan ’97 Eric Weller ’74

According to the incorporated By-Laws of our Association, we are making a call for Nominations to fulfill positions within the Executive Committee. Specifically and from Article IV. Governance, Section G: “Nomination of Executive Committee Members: Candidates to fill positions may be nominated by any Association Member by submitting a nomination to the CFS Office of Alumni Relations.” These Positions consist of President, Vice-President, Secretary and Two (2) Members-At-Large. Although we seek a minimum of two Membersat-Large, we are not limited to this amount and are therefore able to nominate and elect as many Members-At-Large who would seek such a role within the Executive Committee. Then to conclude such business, our By-Laws further state, under Article VI. Meetings, Section A: “Association Annual Meeting: The Annual Meeting of the Association will be held during the Annual Alumni Spring Weekend Dinner in April of each year. The Annual Meeting will consist of reports by the President and Officers on the State of the Alumni Association; announcement of election results; the installation of new Officers; and, when appropriate, a report on the acceptance or rejection of amendments to the Bylaws.”

Gentlemen– the call is going out. If for you, or others Don Burt ’77 amongst you; the Alumni calling is towards Association President good work- where the effort is a joy, the design is to improve, the shared brotherhood is worthy our time, and the need for continued advancement within our ranks grows the real and genuine service to our School. Alumni are what the School makes. Our Association seeks then to find those of likened spirit who seek to advance The Mission and reflect our mutual goals while we sustain from within our Membership. Consider this request and nominate whom you think. Pass that nomination by either email or letter to Lori McDermott (lmcdermott@gocfs. net) by March 22, 2013. I’ll see you at Alumni Dinner; always held the last Saturday of April! Don Burt ’77 President Alumni Association Maroon

David Zimmerman ’88

Winter 2013

Alumni Happenings Gatherings Philadelphia

Washington, D.C.

Alumni, friends and members of the CFS community gathered at Ladder 15 this past October for a Philadelphia get-together. Members of the Alumni Executive Committee used this time to update guests about the involvement of the Alumni Association at CFS. Wrestling Coach and Science Teacher Art Smith found time to socialize with attending alums.

Chad Shreiner ’04 hosted the Washington, D.C. gathering at The Dubliner Irish Pub in November. At least one graduate from each decade beginning in 1950 through 2006 attended the event. Student Ambassadors Uche Egonu ’15 and Edward Kim ’16 enjoyed sharing their experiences of student life at CFS.

Cassandra Matos, Joel Alzate ’05, Lori McDermott and Ned Sherrill

Don Burt ’77 and Chimdi Mbonu ’87

Chad Shreiner ’04, Kim and John Grammer ’79

Lori McDermott and Steve Choc ’02

Art Smith, Chris Johnson ’85 and Stacey Brokenbaugh ’85

James Gibbs and son, Christopher Gibbs ’88

Don Burt ’77, Bill Golemon ’50 and Tim Kott ’86

San Francisco

Phoenix What better time than January to catch up with alumni and friends in the southwest! Le Chalet Restaurant was the gathering place for John Morrow ’49, Stu Brackney ’62 and wife Mary, as well as Director of Alumni Relations Lori McDermott. After a trip to Tucson the following day, Stu and Lori dined with Wendy Boorn, daughter of Frank Stryke ’29 and niece of Bill Stryke ’34 at the Bluewater Grill.

Scott Varney ’70 and John Frankman ’06

John Van Der Wal ’84 hosted the west coast gathering for CFS alumni at Perry’s in late January. As Tony Bennett would say, “I left my heart in San Francisco.” Unfortunately, we left our photos there. Look for an update and pictures in the next issue of The Maroon & Grey.

Never To Be Forgotten Jack Morrow ’49 and Stuart Brackney ’62

Remembering Ralph… February 9, 1917 – January 11, 2013 If you have followed The Maroon & Grey newsletter for these past few years, I’m sure you will recall reading stories and Class Notes regarding Ralph Held ’34. Ralph had a love for family, shortwave radio, golf, church and, of course, Church Farm School.

Jack Morrow ’49, Stu Brackney ’62, Mary Menacker and Lori McDermott

Wendy Boorn

Eighty-three years later, The Church Farm School remained an important part of Ralph’s life.You will always be remembered, K6QS.

Tucson A trip to the southwest would not be complete without a visit to see Newton Disney ’48. The former CFS basketball coach shared photos and stories of teams he coached during his tenure. We celebrated Newt’s 82nd birthday at “Frankie’s South Philly Cheesesteaks & Hoagies” in Tucson.

In fact, the first paragraph of Ralph’s obituary read: “Ralph attended the Church Farm School in Exton, PA in 1927 as a member of the Class of 1934. He had to leave CFS in 1930 when the Depression was well underway. In 2010 Ralph was awarded an honorary degree, Bible and maroon blazer as an alumnus of CFS. He worked hard while at CFS and had many fond memories. Ralph stated,‘CFS is where the first seed was planted and God watched over me through thick and thin.’”

In Memoriam

Jody Disney, Stu Brackney ’62 and Newt Disney ’48

Ralph Held ’34

Mark Labdon ’78

William Bascome ’44

Seth Carrington ’12

Richard Leary ’54 The Maroon & Grey

Class Notes George Kline ’59 and Jean Snodgrass were married on September 28, 2012. They currently reside in Lodi, Calif. George was proud to introduce his new bride to the CFS family at our recent San Francisco gathering.

sity and will serve as the primary media contact for volleyball, cross country, track and field and baseball for the Explorers. Paul earned his bachelor’s degree in comprehensive communications in May from Cedarville University and will be pursuing a master’s in education at La Salle.

Marvin Garcia ‘99 and wife Shana welcomed Maddan Trinidad Garcia on August 22, 2012. Here is Maddan at five months. He’s a very happy baby who brings joy to our lives and is a true blessing.

Watching……Hands of Hope at Work Peter Goda ’60 (papago1@verizon.net) has served his community as a member of the West Reading Fire Company since his appointment as Fire Police Officer in October 2008. His promotion and appointment to the office of Fire Police Lieutenant was announced and confirmed at the West Reading Borough Council Meeting on January 15, 2013. Pennsylvania Special Fire Police have been nominated by a volunteer fire company, are confirmed and authorized to serve by their municipality, report to their Fire Chief, and are subject to the direction of police authority. Last month Peter was reelected as Financial Secretary of the Fire Police Association of Berks County (Pennsylvania) where he also serves as a member of the Training Committee. Stuart Brackney ’62 (sbrackney1@cox. net) and wife, Mary Menacker, share a moment together while in Vermont. Mark Dohle ’98 and Katelyn Martens were married on August 18, 2012 in Pownal, Maine. Pictured with Mark (second from right) are Derek Fenhagen ’98, Sean Marasco ’98, Darshan Dohle ’94 and Brian Baker ’99. Chad Shreiner ’04 & Bart Bronk ’96 pose for a photo prior to running the Ocean City, N.J. HalfMarathon on September 30, 2012. Terry came down to offer his support!

Paul Hembekides ’08 (hembo2828@ yahoo.com) has been named the athletic communications assistant at La Salle Univer-

Stu Brackney ’62 My wife Mary and I took a trip this summer, to Bolivia of all places. Our purpose, volunteering for an organization called Esperanca. I strongly recommend you go to their web site www. Esperanca.org to learn more about them. Mary and I traveled there to take pictures and write stories of the work they do. On this trip, a team of ten, including a plastic surgeon, nurses and an anesthesiologist, went for the purpose of providing surgery, free of course, to the local people who were in dire need. Chief Surgeon Dr. Nick Retson and his vol-

Need I tell you that this was one eye-opening venture. Our des- unteer staff perform one of many surgeries tination was the picturesque town of Tarija, in southern Bolivia, during their trip to Bolivia. the poorest country in South America. The small health clinic where surgery was performed was something out of the 1930’s, bare walls, minimum equipment but still a place where those in need received this highly specialized surgery. During one procedure, the electricity failed, but as we stood in the operating room wondering what they would do, the doctor’s two daughters and one nurse each turned on a pencil flash light so that they could continue, and the anesthesiologist manually operated his medical equipment. Besides cleft palates, the major work done during our visit was burn repairs. Mostly little kids from the hinterlands where there is no electricity, no hospitals and of course no 911 emergency care. Local staff of Esperanca spend weeks sorting through the hundreds of patients who need this specialized surgery in preparation for the medical team’s arrival. The families come from far off places, some having walked seven hours to get the much needed help.

Stu Brackney ’62 brightens the day for a young patient and his family.

Our chief surgeon Dr. Nick Retson has visited South America 36 times, volunteering his services and that of his fellow team members, including his two daughters. Dr. Retson is one amazing guy, when asked why…his response was.. “I enjoy it.” No drama in his answer or the way he goes about his job, performing seven surgeries a day, starting at 7:00 a.m. and finishing up at 8:30 p.m. His crew then goes to a mini staff meeting where they review the list of patients for the following morning. They do this for six days! They volunteer because they enjoy it, and the organization Esperanca makes it all possible through the donations it receives.

If I recall correctly, the Colonel taught us, as did his sons and the current headmaster Ned, that giving is one wonderfully rewarding experience. If you can’t go to Bolivia or Nicaragua, then maybe you can send a donation to Esperanca for this truly needed medical work done by dedicated people. I’ve enclosed a few pictures, of the doc and some of his staff and most importantly, the kids who are rewarded with his medical expertise. Look at these kids, who now smile because someone cared enough about them. Reminds me of how I felt as a student at CFS…..someone cared about me. Grab a tissue as you write that check.

Time to Retire Ed Price ’54 The title above was once used by a tire company. It of course meant to replace your old tires with new. In a sense that is what I have done. I had a long career designing and selling special electronics used for the development of aircraft and space vehicles. I started winding down by consulting for the company that I had helped to found. Somewhere in my forties, I surprised myself by becoming interested in history. As I wound down, I started looking for an active pastime in history. I found it first in archaeology at an old grist mill. I soon found myself leading at one archaeology site after another. Then I moved into the management of historical organizations. Serving as the president of one orga- Ed Price ’54, donned in era-appropriate clothnization was fulfilling, but I then moved to an organization that was managing a very special place in Bucks County, Penna. ing, assists a visitor at the Moland House while another volunteer looks on. This place is where Washington and his Army camped for two weeks in August, 1777. This was just before the battle of Brandywine. Here is where the Marquis de Lafayette first joined the Continental Army. At the age of 19, the Continental Congress made him a Major General due to his connections with the King of France. He was not meant to be an active Officer, but became engaged in battle at Brandywine, and so it went in every battle afterward. A very rich orphan, he became the ‘adopted son’ of His Excellency, George Washington. The Moland House was Washington’s headquarters with about 11,000 men camped for miles around. The camp is also where a very capable Polish cavalry officer offered his services to the army. Washington at first turned him down, but then decided to take him on. Count Casimir Pulaski then established the U.S. Cavalry at this very camp. We all enjoy volunteering our time to this very historic site. I have been the President for two years here, and it is very enriching. I am a member of six local historical groups. Out of one, I have had an interest in a special site in Warminster Township, Bucks County. I have waited for the chance to save the home of William Tennent for some eight years. Last year it happened. The owner was about to tear the house down. With all the publicity we could muster, the owner decided to turn the home over to a newly formed non-profit corporation named the William Tennent House Association. We are on our way to save this house near where the first college in Pennsylvania was built back in the 1730’s, and where the Tennent Family made its home. William Tennent’s school was called the Log College, and there were later over sixty descendant colleges and universities from this country school, beginning with Princeton University. Ours is a major undertaking to restore the house, and begin educating the general public about this very significant beginning of our nation’s educational institutions. In this organization, I am the busy Treasurer. I also head a few committees. We are busy bringing in new active members to help us with our many tasks. Archaeology has begun here a bit earlier than we expected due to many artifacts showing up without any hard effort. We have found pieces of colonial items such as shoe buckles. This site is eligible to be placed on the National Register of Historic Places. It will also be registered as a Pennsylvania Archaeology Site. And so in my 76th year, my retirement continues.

Winter 2013

NON-PROFIT ORG.

The Maroon & Grey

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CFS Happenings ... Corporate Recognition Breakfast – March 21, 2013

Commencement – June 1, 2013

Griffin Scholars Luncheon – April 10, 2013

Alumni Soccer – September 7, 2013

Math and Science Roundtable Breakfast – April 16, 2013

CFS Golf Classic – September 27, 2013

Spring Alumni Weekend – April 26 through April 28, 2013 Spring Alumni Dinner – April 27, 2013

Pageant Reception 11

In keeping with tradition, Ned and Lizette Sherrill hosted a reception in their home prior to the Sunday afternoon performance of the Pageant. Alumni, Members of the Board, Parent Association leaders and Parent Annual Fund Representatives, as well as other special guests and their families attended. 1. Sam DiFalco, Bob Brown (Parents), Terri Remedio (Friend) & Michelle Dirks (Parent) 2. Stacey (Director) & Bill Kley

3. Don Burt (Alumni Chair), Donna & Bill Zarycranski (Parents) 4. Ned Sherrill, Nadine Sidoriak (Parent Association), Heather Myers (Parent Association) 5. Zachary Roberts (Cottage Faculty) & The Rt. Rev. Charles Bennison, Jr. (Former Director) 6. Rosette Bean & Susan Ziegenfus (Friends), Uche Egonu ’15 (Student), & Lucia Ziegenfus (Friend)