Dawson Magazine Spring 2024

Dawson Magazine

Community

INSIDE:

The Magic of Giving Back Traditions, Old and New, Bring Us Together

Uniting Through Theater

In This Issue

16

18

20

22

26

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32

Dawson School is dedicated to excellence of mind, body, and character. We prepare students, through challenging and relevant learning, to become creative, resilient problem solvers who bring their best to the world.

EDITORS

Lauren Calkins

Kris Deardorff

Claire Gilbert

Chris Ingwalson

George Moore

Carly Slagel

CONTRIBUTORS

Tony Bender

Kris Deardorff

Peter Devlin

Josh Gaffga

Sarena Hebebrand

Chris Ingwalson

Mike Jacobsma

Joyanne Jenkins

Heather Karimi

Ayal Korczak

Kristin Medler

George Moore

Jay Parker

Carly Slagel

David Thesenga

DESIGNER

Anne Bryant Creative

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Sarena Hebebrand

Chris Ingwalson

Jessie Nagel

Carly Slagel

© 2024 Dawson School

10455 Dawson Drive

Lafayette, Colorado 80026

Phone: (303) 665-6679

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Kimberley Johnston

CHAIRMAN AND TREASURER

W. Hunter Campbell

VICE CHAIR AND GENERAL COUNSEL

Pearl Gallagher

SECRETARY

Susan Borst

Lisa Eyler

Megan Dunleavy

Alex Gury ‘97

Robin Opie

LEADERSHIP TEAM

George Moore

HEAD OF SCHOOL

David D’Ercole

DIRECTOR OF LOWER SCHOOL

Anne Hecox

DIRECTOR OF UPPER SCHOOL

Chris Ingwalson

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS

Christine Lipson

DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES

Jay Parker

DIRECTOR OF MIDDLE SCHOOL

Scott Schneider

DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS AND TUITION ASSISTANCE

Carly Slagel

DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT

Michelle Wolf

CHIEF FINANCIAL AND OPERATING OFFICER

Dawson School Board of Trustees

BACK ROW: Pearl Gallagher, Lisa Eyler, Kimberley Johnston, Susan Borst, and Megan Dunleavy

FRONT ROW: Robin Opie and Alex Gury ‘97

NOT PICTURED: W. Hunter Campbell

DAWSON PARENT ASSOCIATION

EXECUTIVE BOARD

Michelle Yano PRESIDENT

Julie Gionet VICE PRESIDENT

Nicole Gittens Ashby TREASURER

Shannon Knobel

ASSISTANT TREASURER

Angie Flachman

SECRETARY

Jill Slater MARKETING DIRECTOR

Keough Duckett

UPPER SCHOOL CO-COORDINATOR

Randi Scherr UPPER SCHOOL CO-COORDINATOR

Hillary Cardinal MIDDLE SCHOOL CO-COORDINATOR

Elizabeth Racca-Johnson

MIDDLE SCHOOL CO-COORDINATOR

Heather Zapletal LOWER SCHOOL CO-COORDINATOR

Julie Collins LOWER SCHOOL CO-COORDINATOR

From Head of School George Moore

Dear Dawson Community,

Well, it’s official, I’m a Swiftie. In July, I had the opportunity to attend the Taylor Swift Eras Tour in Denver alongside my wife, Jen, and my two daughters, aged eight and twelve. Amidst a crowd of 75,000 fans adorned with creative attire and friendship bracelets, I found myself reflecting on the concert experience and its parallels to the ethos of the Dawson community.

Concerts serve as unique celebrations of communal spirit, drawing together hundreds or thousands of people united in their shared appreciation for a particular artist or genre. Similarly, Dawson fosters a collective reverence for academic excellence, perseverance, and a desire to make a positive impact.

One notable aspect shared between concerts and Dawson is the emphasis on connection. Whether attending with companions or independently, concert-goers forge meaningful connections with fellow attendees, contributing to a sense of camaraderie and shared experience. Similarly, within the Dawson community, everyone is encouraged to form connections and relationships that enrich their educational journey and contribute to the overall fabric of the institution.

Goodwill is another hallmark of both concert experiences and the Dawson community. Concerts are characterized by an atmosphere of enthusiasm and anticipation, where attendees collectively uplift one another through their shared passion for music.

At Dawson, a culture of positivity and support pervades. We continually foster an environment conducive to student and faculty/staff growth, collaboration, and mutual respect.

Lastly, there’s a joy found at a concert that’s mirrored by the Dawson community. Here, students learn the satisfaction of completing a challenging assignment and the exhilaration of experiencing something new. These shared moments cultivate a climate of accomplishment, excitement and joy.

We continually foster an environment conducive to student and faculty/staff growth, collaboration, and mutual respect.

Considering these parallels, it’s evident that both concert experiences and the Dawson community serve as platforms for cultivating connection. While school may not be entirely synonymous with a concert, the principles of community, camaraderie, and shared enjoyment remain fundamental to savoring life and finding personal and academic success.

Please enjoy this year’s magazine, celebrating our incredible Dawson community, of which I continue to be grateful to be a part.

George Moore HEAD OF SCHOOL

How the Dawson Community Helped Me Overcome Challenges

BY JOYANNE JENKINS ‘25

Community. It’s the first thing that comes to my mind when I think of Dawson. But it’s so much more than that. Behind the curtains, Dawson is a community where everyone is accepted, no matter their background. This inclusive culture has been a really positive influence on a neuro-diverse learner like me. Dawson has provided me with a safe, encouraging space where I have evolved from a middle schooler who felt like I didn’t fit in, to a junior who is excited about the future. I have grown to understand my differences, embrace my strengths, and develop tools to help me thrive. I couldn’t have done this without the huge community of support I’ve had around me.

From a young age, I struggled with paying attention in class, managing my time, and staying on task. This presented me with several challenges in and out of the classroom. My parents were finally advised to get me tested, and I was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The diagnosis was life-changing for me. Not only were my parents and I now aware of what I was struggling with, but I could finally get the help I needed.

My perspective on the world has always been unique, and I have often faced challenges I had to overcome. I relocated from London and began attending Dawson in sixth grade. Moving during middle school isn’t easy. Having ADHD and being a typical teen didn’t make things easier! But through

“My experience at Dawson has shown me that by fostering understanding and patience and embracing our differences, we can harness the remarkable strengths in each of us and build a world that’s open to supporting differences and encouraging success.”

JOJO JENKINS ‘25

sharing some of my struggles, I felt like at Dawson, I was part of a community where I was understood and supported despite my differences. I’ve had amazing teachers who’ve provided me with picture notes instead of word notes, encouraged me to develop my creativity through art and innovation, spent extra time with me during office hours, and urged me to believe in myself. This support gave me the confidence to take Dawson’s TEDTalking class last semester and develop my own TED-Ed Student presentation, Rewriting the Story of ADHD. In my TEDTalk to parents, faculty, and students, I was able to share the advantages of ADHD and how I’ve turned my learning differences into strengths.

My journey with ADHD has had numerous ups and downs. Because my brain sees the world differently, I’ve had to persist in finding my own learning path. There have been moments where the challenges felt overwhelming, but knowing I had teachers, peers, and family to support me gave me confidence that everything would be alright. My journey has given me a new appreciation for my support circle, who’ve supported me along the way, reminding me that I’m not alone and that despite having learning differences, I can still thrive in and out of school.

I’m a junior now, and I’m preparing to go out into the real world, knowing that the younger me would be so proud of where I’ve gotten. I’ll always have a second home at Dawson.

Life is a journey full of twists and turns. You may follow many paths and have several unique experiences, but at the end of the day, the people who stand by your side and support you help shape you into who you are. My experience at Dawson has shown me that by fostering understanding and patience and embracing our differences, we can harness the remarkable strengths in each of us and build a world that’s open to supporting differences and encouraging success. A world that values the diverse talents and contributions of all individuals.

LEGO® City Developed in Lower School

BY CHRIS INGWALSON, DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS

Inthe quaint setting of Stapp Lakes cottage, an innovative Lower School educational project is taking shape under the leadership of Mr. Korczak, our Lower School Innovation and Technology Specialist. This ambitious endeavor involves constructing a miniature city — a remarkable fusion of robotics and LEGO® bricks — inspired by the iconic layout of New York City. The project, engaging grades K-5, is not just a creative exercise but also a hands-on lesson in coding, robotics, and urban planning.

The design of this miniature metropolis mirrors the familiar grid pattern of New York, complete with rectangular blocks and one-way avenues that run uptown and downtown, intersected by crosstown streets stretching from east to west. This intricate layout is more than just a visual spectacle; it serves as a dynamic playground for Dawson’s young minds to explore and learn.

Each student is allocated a plot within this LEGO® city, where they’ll construct various structures and destinations. These include essential city elements like a school, hospital, fire station, and a whimsically conceived kitty hostel. The objective is to create a vibrant, functional cityscape where coded robots can navigate and perform tasks.

The technological aspect of this project is particularly engaging. Students will use Spheros (made possible via a mini-grant from the Dawson Parent Association), EV3 Mindstorm, and Spike robots, programming them to accomplish various missions within the city. These missions mimic real-life scenarios and challenges.

For instance, one task involves programming a robot to function as an automated taxi, navigating a specific circuit around the city. Another mission requires a robot to travel from the school to the hospital, picking up medical supplies from a commissary en route.

Students will also code robots to transport students from a bus stop to the school’s drop-off point and navigate simulated traffic jams and street closures. These activities not only imbue students with coding skills but also teach them to adapt and problem-solve in changing situations.

The project also promotes a sense of community and creativity. Students have actively participated in a contest to name the city, with imaginative suggestions like Megalegoland, Kitty Dale, Shmoopyville, and YakkaTown. After a week of anticipation, “Brick City” emerged as the winning name. In a further nod to personalization, streets and public parks within Brick City will bear students’ names. So students can navigate a robot down Andrew Avenue, turn onto Lindsey Lane, and conclude their journey at a grocery store on Brian Boulevard.

“What is great about this project is that it incorporates a variety of skill sets including coding, engineering, creativity, executive function, and most importantly, the ability to continue working after failure.”

AYAL KORCZAK

This innovative project at the Lower School is more than just an educational exercise; it’s a microcosm of real-world scenarios, blending creativity, technology, and community. As the students build and code in their LEGO® city, they learn valuable STEM skills, urban planning complexities, and the importance of teamwork and community. The project promises to be a memorable and impactful experience, shaping the minds of these young learners in unique and exciting ways.

The Magic of Giving Back

BY HEATHER KARIMI, DAWSON PARENT AND DAWSON CARES COMMITTEE CHAIR

It doesn’t take much to bring the entire Dawson community together to do good for our broader area. Thanks to the hard work of two upper school students, Maddie Abel ‘25 and Maya Kish ‘25, Dawson had the opportunity to make blankets for the Boulder Homeless Shelter.

On a chilly day in December, over 60 members from the Dawson community — students, faculty, staff, and parents — assembled in the Dining Commons to put their tying skills to the test. In just over two hours, the group made 50 blankets that would eventually find their way to those in need and provide warmth during winter.

Why engage with the Boulder Homeless Shelter and make blankets? Not only was it important to address a need in the Boulder area, but it was also a way to bring all groups at Dawson together. The event took place on campus and after school hours to reach the most people possible — what better and more convenient way for the Dawson community to connect? Even faculty and staff who couldn’t attend the event, participated by sending in supplies — yardsticks from the Biology department, scissors from the Makerspace and carts from the Upper School — to ensure a smooth event.

When asked about planning the event, Maddie and Maya remarked that while it was daunting to plan something like this, they learned so much and are excited to plan more for the Dawson community. They witnessed the kindness and generosity of those outside our Dawson campus when a stranger offered to help purchase the fabric for the event after hearing what the girls were planning while standing in line behind them. They learned that you can do something that might feel big and scary if you let your passion lead the way. And they determined that the best first step is to ask community members what they need, not just assume. Maddie and Maya shared:

“We considered making soup or decorating the homeless shelter, but reaching out for their input made such a difference. Asking, ‘What can we do?’ led to their bigger need: blankets. We’ll keep this in mind when planning future events.“

Organizing the blanket-making entailed many moving parts: ensuring the space was reserved, marketing to the different divisions, getting supplies, ensuring they had clear directions for anyone who showed up, and more. The scariest part for Maddie and Maya was not knowing who would show up and how many would be there. Would there be enough supplies? Too many supplies? Were they prepared to give clear instructions to get everyone working? Ultimately, they learned they can rely on themselves and the broader Dawson community to lend a hand and provide support.

“We considered making soup or decorating the homeless shelter, but reaching out for their input made such a difference. Asking, ‘What can we do?’ led to their bigger need: blankets. We’ll keep this in mind when planning future events.“

MADDIE AND MAYA

Maddie and Maya learned that giving back is not just hypothetical or something that feels good, but it’s about the impact you make by helping someone in need. The two were driving in Boulder when they saw a person using one of the blankets made at the Dawson event. According to the two:

“Wow, that really hit home seeing a blanket we made actually being used by someone who truly needed it. When do you get that opportunity to see the impact of something you have done? Knowing the blankets made it to people in need was all the motivation we need to keep finding ways to give back by leveraging our Dawson community.”

What’s next for these two and their passion to give back to the community? They’re considering a letter-writing event to help bring some smiles to and raise the spirits of those in nursing homes or hospice care. The two are also collaborating with other Dawson organizations to help them develop a communityservice mindset and offer more volunteer opportunities that align with their missions. For instance, they may partner with the Environmental Club for trail cleaning in the spring as the weather warms up. In short, thanks to dynamic, caring students like Maddie and Maya, there will be more opportunities for the broader Dawson community to come together to give back, connect, and make a positive difference in our area — and beyond.

Innovative Middle School Programs Foster a Community of Caring

BY KRISTEN MEDLER, MIDDLE SCHOOL DEAN

When eighth-grade science teacher

David Thesenga walks into the Middle School wielding a two-foot stuffed dinosaur, a 12-pack box of Sunkist soda, a unicorn that blows bubbles, and a crystal growing kit, kids know that something fun is going to happen.

This year, the Dawson Middle School implemented a buddy program between sixth and eighth graders, an initiative developed to foster community and cultivate leadership skills. Eighth-grade team leader Carolyn Hein saw an opportunity for her students to practice Dawson’s core virtues of courage, compassion, integrity, and respect by connecting with students new to the division. “This program provides the eighth graders the chance to be leaders and share their wisdom with the sixth graders. It helps them understand they are part of a community,

“This program provides the eighth graders the chance to be leaders and share their wisdom with the sixth graders. It helps them understand they are part of a community, not just one grade level.”

CAROLYN HEIN

not just one grade level,” Hein says. “My favorite thing that happened was on the Middle School quad when someone yelled, ‘No BUDDY left behind!’ This became the tagline for the partnership.”

Each sixth grader was welcomed into their year with a hand-decorated sign on their locker. Excitement bubbled up as sixth graders eagerly tried to find the person who was their assigned buddy. Buddy groups have now been meeting twice per quarter, with eighth-grade students planning and facilitating activities for their sixth-grade friends.

If you stroll through the Middle School on a Wednesday morning, you can find jewelry making, popcorn, and hot cocoa in Cinnamon Lopez’s class. Or in David Thesenga’s class, a group Jeopardy game that includes trivia about Taylor Swift, football stadiums across the country, and Barbie. Winning buddy partnerships collaboratively decide upon a prize, whether that’s a Sunkist for all or a large dinosaur for the sixth grader.

Also built into the middle school programming is another partnership that allows sixth graders to become leaders. Sixth-grade advisor Liz Bender collaborates with Lower School’s second-grade teachers Bhavani Meikandar and Carol Kanda for monthly crossdivisional activities. Working in the Lower School Kiva or on the green top, students write pen pal letters to local senior citizens and read stories together. Fostering literacy skills between varying ages increases confidence and real-world implications for utilizing what students learn in the classroom. After completing literacy activities, students get creative with construction paper and scissors, creating valentines or building leprechaun traps for the pesky leprechauns that come around in March. “I came from a school where cross-divisional collaboration was such a magical thing,” says Bender. “I wanted to recreate some of this magic. I love cross-divisional interactions, and it’s something I want to start as a tradition.”

Community involvement is a practice Dawson students take into the outside world as well. For several years, the Middle School has partnered with Sister Carmen, a local community center providing affordable clothing, food, financial assistance, and advocacy services to those in need. This year, sixth-grade students used environmental science skills to create compost bins for Sister Carmen with coffee, branches, and paper and learned about the impact of our actions on the environment.

“I came from a school where cross-divisional collaboration was such a magical thing. I wanted to recreate some of this magic. I love cross-divisional interactions, and it’s something I want to start as a tradition.”

LIZ BENDER, SIXTH-GRADE ADVISOR

Students also worked on planting flowers and vegetables in the garden to draw pollinators to the area. Once the crops were ready, they harvested what was needed and brought them to the food pantry. Sister Carmen staff members educated students on the issues of food insecurity and homelessness while students stocked the food pantry shelves, portioned out dog and cat food, and cleaned the waiting area. Each visit to Sister Carmen ended with an enthusiastic group of kids clamoring off the mini-bus, excitedly chatting about the day’s events.

Caring for one another is a core value in the Middle School. It’s the teachers who go the extra mile to ensure their students have opportunities. It’s older students checking on younger students. It’s laughter in the hallway when an activity ends. It’s a green dinosaur. It’s who we are.

Traditions, Old and New, Bring Us Together

BY GEORGE MOORE, HEAD OF SCHOOL

There has been much discussion this year about tradition, its purpose, its impact, and its evolution. At the heart of Dawson lies a rich tapestry of traditions, both old and new, that serves as the lifeblood of our community. Chris Ingwalson, our Director of Marketing and Communication, reflects on the profound impact of these rituals in fostering unity and belonging.

“Tradition brings comfort and belonging,” Ingwalson observes, “It’s the thread that weaves families together, reconnects us with friends, and reinforces the values we hold dear.” From annual celebrations to honoring our remarkable founder, Jerry Henderson, these traditions define Dawson’s unique culture and showcase our collective identity.

For Ingwalson, being a newcomer at Dawson has been an immersive journey into these time-honored customs. “Experiencing these traditions for the first time has been pivotal in understanding Dawson, forging connections within the community, and feeling a part of something special,” she shares.

Among the myriad events, Winter Carnival stands out as a personal favorite for Ingwalson. “I love a good competition,” she enthuses, “The energy and excitement of the gym during the carnival are

unparalleled.” Witnessing students from every grade come together in spirited camaraderie, with older students guiding and supporting their younger peers, epitomizes the unique bond that defines Dawson.

However, tradition at Dawson is not static; it evolves with the times. Thanks to community feedback and student involvement, we’re looking forward to introducing new events like Pony Puff, a flag football game for upper school students. Additionally, we’ll be continuing After Prom. We’re also eager to foster more inter-divisional relationships, like having lower school students trick-or-treat in the Upper School.

As we celebrate these beloved traditions, Dawson remains dedicated to embracing change, innovation, and inclusivity. Ingwalson affirms, “Tradition remains a steadfast anchor, grounding us in our shared values and beliefs, while also propelling us forward.”

We will continue to prioritize tradition, and I look forward to the inspiration and belonging they foster.

“My favorite tradition is Winter Carnival. The entire school gets to interact, and it is a lot of fun to help with the younger students.”

ALSA HALQUIST ‘24

“My favorite is Senior Honoring. It highlights the incredible relationships that faculty and students develop through the years, and showcases each student’s unique gifts and personality. It is an emotional event that is authentically Dawson.”

KRIS

DEARDORFF, DATA SYSTEM ADMINISTRATOR / UPPER SCHOOL SCIENCE

“The theater students have an opening night tradition that evolved years ago. It happens backstage just before the show starts; only the cast is allowed. I love that students crafted something meaningful and just for them, and that’s become a cherished part of the Dawson theater experience.”

JOSH GAFFGA, MIDDLE SCHOOL THEATER

A DAWSON FEST WELCOME FOR LOWER SCHOOLERS

Dawson and ISEEN, a Perfect Partnership for Experiential Education

BY JAY PARKER, MIDDLE SCHOOL DIRECTOR

Instilling a love of hands-on learning has long been a hallmark of the Dawson experience. From guitarbuilding workshops to service-learning initiatives in Haiti to discovering the intrepid beauty of Arches National Park on the seminal 8th-grade trip to Utah, Dawson students are continually exposed to experiential learning as part of our school’s mission toward excellence of mind, body, and character.

With our experiential education foundation, it is not surprising that a dynamic partnership has emerged between Dawson and one of the leading organizations in this field, the Independent School Experiential Education Network (ISEEN). ISEEN represents a coalition of hundreds of independent, charter, and international schools that share a desire to drive the innovation of experiential learning in schools. Their two signature programs each year are the Winter Institute, hosted each January (rotating school sites but most recently at The Athenian School in the Bay Area), and the Summer Institute, now hosted each June here on our spectacular Dawson campus.

Established in 2005, ISEEN has grown thoughtfully and organically as it partners with schools to “lead, inform, connect, expand, and steward transformational experiential teaching and learning.” Dawson is a longstanding partner of ISEEN, first becoming a member in 2006 under the guidance of former Dawson teacher Nate Lord (who founded the Dawson Winterim program in 1996), but it was not until the unveiling of our state-of-the-art Dawson Center for Innovation in 2020 that we first considered hosting an ISEEN event. Melissa Barker, longtime Director of Experiential Education at Dawson, and Shoshanna Sumka, Executive Director of ISEEN, had hoped for years to have a signature ISEEN event in Colorado, and in 2023, their vision became a reality, when Dawson hosted our first ISEEN Summer Institute, a sold-out event welcoming over 70 educators to our campus!

“Dawson has been a wonderful host, helping ISEEN to further our mission of expanding and stewarding experiential education throughout an interconnected world. We are so excited to have such great partners at Dawson to explore immersive and experiential education inside the classroom and beyond. ISEEN is thrilled to be returning to the Dawson school campus for our 2024 Summer Teachers Institute on experiential education, pedagogy, and practice.”

- SHOSHANNA SUMKA, ISEEN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Three Dawson faculty members had the opportunity to participate in the Summer Institute: Liz Bender, Chris Lyskawa, and Elizabeth Perez. Each recalls an engaging and transformative experience.

“My time at ISEEN was awesome! It was incredible to meet and work with faculty from around the country (and Canada), learn from their experiences, and share my own. What I enjoyed most was getting outdoors into nature and being inspired by experiential education to connect education in the classroom to real-world problems.”

- LIZ BENDER, MIDDLE SCHOOL INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY TEACHER

“ISEEN provided me with a deep dive into various teaching pedagogies with expert guidance from the amazing facilitators. I learned how to use experiential learning to make my lessons and units more exciting and purposeful, along the way gaining a library of resources that I will use later in my classes!”

- CHRIS LYSKAWA, MIDDLE SCHOOL SOCIAL STUDIES TEACHER

“What a lovely event. It was so nice to have the time and space to work with others in my discipline to help elevate our classes. I was able to get incredible feedback from my peers and colleagues to fine-tune my curriculum and lessons.”

- ELIZABETH PEREZ, MIDDLE SCHOOL LIFE SCIENCES TEACHER

Established in 2005, ISEEN has grown thoughtfully and organically as it partners with schools to “lead, inform, connect, expand, and steward transformational experiential teaching and learning.”

Hosting an event of this caliber demonstrates Dawson’s dedication to providing relevant, leading-edge education and our continued leadership in experiential learning. After a successful first year at Dawson, the ISEEN Summer Institute is now expanding and evolving in 2024. Due to the high demand from applicants, ISEEN will now be offering two separate four-day sessions. The second session will also mark ISEEN’s first teacher cohort focused solely on innovation and making, with Dawson’s Director of Innovation and Technology, Jeff Ellenbogen, serving as the institute’s Master Innovation Teacher. This reflects Dawson’s position in the field and the rapid growth of innovation and design as a teaching discipline in schools.

“I am really looking forward to participating in ISEEN this summer. Being a part of developing the first-ever makerspace cohort at ISEEN and having the opportunity to work with like-minded makerspace teachers from around the country is really exciting. I feel so fortunate to have this opportunity to share our amazing Innovation Center facilities with other independent school experiential educators.”

- JEFF ELLENBOGEN, DIRECTOR OF INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY

It is with great appreciation that Dawson hosts this annual event, and special thanks go to our amazing Dawson School staff who support this event; our summer camp, transportation, maintenance, and SAGE dining teams all contribute to welcoming our guests with the hospitality, and kindness, that are hallmarks of the Dawson difference.

As John Dewey aptly put it, “Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.” Independent schools are embracing this philosophy and cultivating a community of educators, creating an educational experience that transcends the confines of the classroom walls.

GETTING TO KNOW OUR ALUMNI FACULTY AND STAFF

Ben Hockenbarron ’09

UPPER SCHOOL SOCIAL STUDIES, CROSS COUNTRY

ASSISTANT COACH, CLIMBING CLUB FACULTY SPONSOR

How long have you been at Dawson?

This is my first year as a faculty member. I was a student here for 11 years, after joining the first-ever 2nd-grade class.

What is your favorite Dawson tradition?

The Senior Honoring ceremony. I think it is a beautiful reflection of the rich relationships students and faculty are able to cultivate during their time here.

What is your Winter Carnival color?

Despite a brief alliance with the red team this year, I bleed green.

What brought you back to Dawson?

A love of teaching and an opportunity to give back to a community and a place that gave me so much as a young person. And the chance to work alongside teachers who I so appreciated and admired when I was a student.

What is your favorite part of working at Dawson?

Those magic moments in the classroom when things click and ideas start to spark.

What are your hobbies/what do you do for fun?

I love to rock climb and ski, play music, and spend time with my wife, dog, and two cats.

As a student, what did you like best about Dawson?

The fact that I felt supported in being multi-faceted. It is rare that a school encourages students to act in plays and play lacrosse and run a club and take challenging classes (and so on).

What was your favorite class while at Dawson?

AP English Literature with Doug London changed my life. What classes/experiences contributed most to where you are now?

When I took AP Human Geography, if you told me that I would spend six years studying that topic at the graduate level I would probably have been shocked — but I am much better for it. Additionally, the critical thinking, communication, and community-building skills I learned through so many different classes and experiences at Dawson continue to be foundational in my life.

Sarena Becker Hebebrand ’05

ART DEPARTMENT CHAIR, ART AND INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY TEACHER, COMPUTER GRAPHICS, DIGITAL ART, DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY, WEARABLES

How long have you been at Dawson?

This is year 12 of teaching at Dawson, and I was also a “lifer” as a student.

What is your favorite Dawson tradition?

As an art teacher, I am a little biased, but the annual art show is a favorite of mine.

What is your Winter Carnival color?

Green — go green!

What brought you back to Dawson?

The opportunity to teach with Dwight (Mr. Ovelman), who taught me as a student, and in a place where I have flexibility with my content.

What is your favorite part of working at Dawson?

The people I work with are pure joy and the ability to continue to learn and grow in my field is encouraged. We are given a lot of opportunities for professional development and are given autonomy in what we are teaching. I also enjoy working with a variety of students in grades 7-12.

What are your hobbies/what do you do for fun?

Hanging out with my family, swimming, sewing, and making art bring me joy.

As a student, what did you like best about Dawson?

The small size allowed me to make lasting connections with faculty. It also allowed me to explore my passions by finding ways to connect content in some classes with the arts.

What was your favorite class while at Dawson?

I loved Printmaking.

Tessa Hennigh Rider ’11

ROBOTICS

COACH

How long have you been at Dawson?

This is my first year as a Dawson coach and third year as a Dawson parent.

What is your favorite Dawson tradition?

The class trips at the beginning of the year were such a great way to ease back into the school year and have some fun!

What is your Winter Carnival color?

Someone, please tell me! I’m guessing green. What brought you back to Dawson?

Becoming a Dawson parent got me re-engaged in the Dawson community. When Kris Deardorff and Claire Rako told me that robotics was in need of a coach, I jumped at the opportunity.

What is your favorite part of working at Dawson?

Seeing the level of dedication the students have for robotics is inspiring!

What are your hobbies/what do you do for fun?

I ride around Longmont on a bakfiet (cargo bike) with my kids going to children’s activities.

As a student, what did you like best about Dawson? I was always impressed by the level of commitment the teachers had. You could just tell they cared about the students and the school to a level you don’t see elsewhere.

What was your favorite class while at Dawson?

Physics and calculus were pretty closely tied for me. What classes/experiences contributed most to where you are now?

During college, I joined an Americorps group doing land conservation work. I believe my experience working with young people and chainsaws, combined with a Masters of Engineering from the School of Mines, made me an appealing candidate to supervise the robotics team with power tools.

“I love to rock climb and ski, play music, and spend time with my wife, dog, and two cats.”

BEN HOCKENBARRON ‘09

“The people I work with are pure joy and the ability to continue to learn and grow in my field is encouraged.”

SARENA BECKER HEBEBRAND ’05

“The class trips at the beginning of the year were such a great way to ease back into the school year and have some fun!”

TESSA HENNIGH RIDER ’11

CATCH THE DRONES IN ACTION

Eighth Graders Embark on a Cosmic Journey

BY CHRIS INGWALSON, DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND COMMUNICATION

In an innovative approach to science education, eighth-grade students are diving deep into the realms of physics and chemistry, guided by the thrilling context of space exploration. Led by David Thesenga, this educational journey isn’t confined to textbooks; it’s a hands-on exploration that mirrors the cuttingedge research shaping our understanding of the cosmos.

At the heart of their lesson is an in-depth study of our solar system’s formation, enriched by the latest findings from the National Science Foundation (NSF) in the United States and the European Space Agency (ESA). Students have been particularly focused on the insights gathered by radio and optical telescopes, including the Atacama Large Millimeter/Submillimeter Array (ALMA) in Chile. These tools have been pivotal in advancing the world’s knowledge of space, offering a window into the ongoing evolution of our solar system.

The curriculum zooms in on Mars, a planet that has captivated human curiosity and ambition. Mars exploration has reached new heights with missions that traverse its surface and achieve flight within its atmosphere. The Ingenuity helicopter, a trailblazer in extraterrestrial aviation, recently concluded its exploration missions on Mars. This milestone demonstrated the potential of drones as indispensable companions to rovers, capable of enhancing our exploration efforts on other planets.

Looking ahead, these technological marvels are set to play a crucial role in sample return missions, aiming to bring Martian materials back to Earth for direct analysis. This endeavor promises to unlock new scientific knowledge, offering unprecedented insights into the Martian environment.

Back in the classroom, drones are demystifying the principles of flight and programmable control for students. Mr. Thesenga notes, “Unlike the simple operation of joystick-controlled drones, our drones allow for programming utilized for navigation, mirroring the complex operations conducted on Mars.” This aspect of the curriculum educates students on the physics of flight and introduces them to the intricate world of programming and remote operation, skills essential for the next generation of scientists and explorers.

The introduction of drones into the science curriculum was made possible through a generous Dawson family donation, allowing Dawson to incorporate a cutting-edge drone curriculum from LocoRobo, a drone and robotics education leader. This integration offers students a unique opportunity to engage with technology that is increasingly prevalent in various sectors, from agriculture and engineering to disaster relief. “We are super fortunate to have the tools and the space to work with the drones. Our Innovation Center provides the flexibility for me to teach a lesson in my classroom, move into the space next door where students can spread out and fly their drones, while I simultaneously whiteboard formulas to help students with programming questions.” Mr. Thesenga notes, “This is the kind of interactive learning that most students don’t experience until college.”

This experience also opens the door to future opportunities. Engaging with drones from an early age can spark a lasting interest in technology and exploration. Students have the potential to pursue FAA drone pilot certification during high school, setting them on a path to lucrative careers in drone operation.

This innovative educational approach not only enriches students’ understanding of science but also prepares them for the future, highlighting the importance of technology in solving complex problems and exploring new frontiers.

Uniting Through Theater

BY CHRIS INGWALSON, DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS

The arts are a critical element of Dawson’s curriculum and culture. With almost two dozen offerings, the performing arts program stands out as a favorite among students and faculty alike, enriching all divisions and fostering a sense of unity throughout the Dawson community.

At the Lower School, under the direction of Donna Deininger, students build a foundation for musical skills, music appreciation, and performance. They have many opportunities to showcase their voices at concerts for Grand Day, MLK Day, and, of course, the holiday and spring concerts. Second graders also had the opportunity showcase their acting skills this year in Room with a Broom. The holiday concert is always a joyful experience, celebrating different cultures and bringing the Lower School K-2 families together during a meaningful time of year.

Under the direction of Josh Gaffga in the Middle School and Tony Bender in the Upper School, and supported by talented faculty including Liz Bender, Becca Spence, Cinnamon Lopez, Alice Bauer, and others, the theater program serves as a vibrant hub for creative expression and collaboration. As Gaffga explains, “When I interviewed for my position during COVID, I was amazed when Dawson informed me that they were

determined to produce both Mamma Mia for the Upper School and Descendants for the Middle School. With leadership from middle and upper school faculty, guidance on safety protocols, and generous support from the Dawson Parent Association, we successfully staged both shows.” Gaffga adds, “That is the Dawson spirit that I’ve grown to love — a determination to create opportunities for students, even when it would be easy to say ‘We can’t do it.’”

A hallmark of Dawson’s theater program is its ability to bring together a diverse group of students, catering to those who thrive on stage and those who prefer to work behind the scenes. The long hours spent in rehearsals and preparations forge deep bonds among students who may not typically interact, allowing them to form close friendships and create lasting memories.

Throughout the years, performing arts students have established their own traditions and celebrations, further strengthening the sense of community within the program. From cast dinners on the final night of rehearsals to the inclusion of Easter eggs in performances, these rituals contribute to the unique identity of Dawson’s theater community. This year, seniors and recent alumni were honored with a special Dawson theater coin, granting them free admission to all future performances as a cherished memento of their time at Dawson and reinforcing that they are always a welcome part of the Dawson experience.

Dawson families also play a pivotal role in the success of the theater program, exemplifying a spirit of support that enhances the overall experience. From providing rehearsal meals to constructing sets to generously donating professional expertise and equipment, parents like Eric Corneliuson epitomize the invaluable contributions made to productions such as this year’s Matilda musical. Corneliuson’s commitment to shooting and producing video backgrounds underscores the dedication of Dawson families to ensuring each production reaches its full potential.

Reflecting on his involvement with Matilda, Corneliuson remarks, “I was very excited to help with Matilda. It’s a great story that celebrates imagination and the magic of being a kid, which you get to see as these kids work together.” Moreover, an upper school parents’ initiative to donate custom “fetch” t-shirts to the cast and crew, along with organizing a special screening of Mean Girls, serves as a testament to their unwavering support for the students’ creative pursuits. This showcase of generosity not only amplifies the excitement surrounding the production but also underscores the inclusive and nurturing environment fostered within the Dawson community.

As the performances unfold, the visual arts faculty meticulously curates a gallery, proudly displaying the extraordinary talents of Dawson’s students. Here, amidst the bustling energy of the

THE MAGIC OF SONG

theater, attendees are treated to captivating stage productions and a diverse display of student creativity. From intricately crafted ceramics to modern photography, vibrant paintings, and innovative jewelry designs, the gallery showcases the multifaceted artistic prowess flourishing within the Dawson community.

Reflecting on the significance of theater in his career, Tony Bender shared, “I have found that theater, seemingly by necessity, brings out a sense of community like no other art form. A production simply will not succeed without everyone bringing their own special skills and talents toward a common goal. To quote a song from the musical Fly By Night, ‘Life is not the things that we do, it’s who we’re doing them with,’ and that has become a true mantra for the Theater Department and myself, personally.”

Theater at Dawson goes beyond mere performance; it serves as a catalyst for connection, collaboration, and artistic celebration, enriching the lives of students, faculty, and families alike. It is through the shared experience of creating art together that the Dawson community truly thrives.

Dawson Parent Association Highlights

BY CARLY SLAGEL, DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT

DAWSON FEST

Dawson launched the school year with Dawson Fest on September 22, 2023. Thanks to the Dawson Parent Association (DPA), and Dawson Fest Chair, Julie Collins, for a wonderful day of community and fun. Dawson Fest 2023 kicked off with the beloved tradition of upper school and middle school students creating a tunnel for the lower schoolers to run through. It’s a great way to start the fun!

The afternoon was filled with activities for all ages including bounce houses, inflatable games, carnival games, a Ninja Nation course, and face painting. The day ended with athletic competitions for both our Boys’ Soccer team and our Girls’ Volleyball teams. This year’s event also featured the Dawson Dash Fun Run and Color Run where students, faculty, and families laced up their shoes and took to our athletic fields for an unforgettable celebration of our school community. As always, the day is full of laughter, and one we look forward to each and every year. Thanks again to the DPA and event chair, Julie Collins, for a fantastic day! If you are interested in getting involved with the 2024 Dawson Fest event, please contact the DPA President at dpapresident@dawsonschool.org.

DADS DISH

A beloved Dawson tradition is Dads Dish, where our Dawson dads come to campus and serve up a Thanksgiving Feast right before break. We had dads from each division participate, and it is always a fun day for the SAGE dining team and our dads.

We are fortunate to have fantastic parents who enjoy doing this each year!

HOLIDAY COFFEE AND MARKET

This year’s Holiday Coffee and Market was once again a great success. The committee, led by Tama Heinrichs, put together a superb event of local vendors and artisans, as well as a greenery and poinsettia sales and raffle. Community members enjoyed warm drinks from the espresso bar, student performances from each division, as well as a beautifully curated shopping experience within the transformed Dining Commons.

The committee looks forward to celebrating the winter season again next December. If you’re interested in getting involved or would like to become a vendor, please reach out to Tama Heinrichs at holidaymarket@dawsonschool.org.

Alumni News

2001

Lindsay Burr During her junior year at Dawson, Lindsay visited Washington D.C. as part of the National Youth Leadership Conference. She had no idea she’d end up living there for more than 15 years, working in domestic politics, international policy, and interpersonal communication. She taught individuals how to vote for their interests. Helped Kenyans set up their equivalent of a Library of Congress. And worked with an organization to reduce burnout and increase resilience. But while her focus shifted, the common threads were always empowering people and helping them navigate their respective systems.

2006

Tyler Baron married his girlfriend, Daniela (Dani) Bojorquez last May, at his uncle’s home in Phoenix, Arizona. They were surrounded by friends and family, many of whom had traveled from all across the U.S., and much of Dani’s family had come from Mexico. They continue to live in Tempe, Arizona. Tyler works as a Professor of Software Engineering at Arizona State University, and Dani is a Case Management Specialist at the Arizona Attorney General’s office. They hope to begin building a family together in the not too distant future.

Blair Hardee Bosworth married her long-time partner, Gary Bosworth, at the St. Julien Hotel in Boulder last September. Blair shares, “We met in college at UC Davis and have lived in Erie ever since I dragged him away from California back in 2020.”

She’s now the CEO of Yarbrough Group, the company her mom founded the year Lindsay was born. In 1983, the primary focus was communication and conflict resolution. Since Lindsay took the reins, the company has expanded into trust-building and intentional innovation. She was excited to use these skills to support Dawson School in 2023.

Currently, Lindsay is channeling her passion into a six-month long intensive training course that will teach leaders to create and support high-functioning teams. She serves as an impartial consultant, combining theory with practice to help companies reduce burnout, navigate conflict, lower turnover, diversify leadership, and increase engagement.

She’s also writing four books, on topics that include developing resilience, women’s leadership, making thoughtful job transitions, and building and maintaining a high-functioning team.

In 2021, Lindsay became a single mom by choice, and her two-yearold daughter, Zora, brings both joy and challenges. But her parents still live in the same Lake Valley house that used to host the Canoe and Kayak teams’ end-of-year parties. And they still make the trip to D.C. a couple of times a year to love on their granddaughter.

Nancy Gandrud Updike currently lives in Boulder with husband Drew, and their two sons Oliver and Remy. She enjoys tennis, design, and traveling to France.

Blair’s classmate Emily Kaptein ‘06 was her maid of honor.

Devyn Isaacson shares, “I don’t like to brag, but this has been pretty neat. Last year I was appointed as a Co-Chair of the Producers Guild of America - Physical Production Committee. It’s been a great way to be involved in the filmmaking community and get to give back.”

2009

Torin Grosso writes, “It’s incredible to realize that nearly half my lifetime has passed since leaving Dawson. After leaving my position at Devereaux Advanced Mental Health in Westminster in 2017, I shifted gears to pursue my passion for teaching and mentoring. I found fulfillment in an afterschool enrichment program where I taught Physics and Engineering using LEGO™. During the pandemic, I embraced roles as a Lyft driver and substitute teacher.”

“In Summer 2023, my wife Katya and I moved to Kansas so she could work at the KSU Veterinary Hospital. I’m pursuing a Master’s in Counseling and working as an Operations Analyst for Lumen. I hope to someday work with teens and young adults to help them navigate life’s challenges. This last year has been hard, and we are looking forward to Katya’s work leading us back to the Fort Collins area. We will be very happy to return home to Colorado. The plan is to save up and hopefully buy a house in a few years. I sincerely hope everyone is thriving and finding joy in their lives.”

2010

Jennifer Angell Trinkner writes, “I am living in Fort Collins with my husband, Kyle, my three-year-old, Arya, and my menagerie of pets. I am working as the Clinical Director at Colorado Center for Assessment and Counseling, a local practice that provides psychological assessment and outpatient therapy. I specialize in treating trauma and substance use disorders for teens and young adults. In our free time, Kyle and I enjoy trying new breweries, doing CrossFit, and traveling. We remain very close with some of my classmates from Dawson, one of whom is Arya’s godfather. This year, I am celebrating my third year of being cancer-free, after beating kidney cancer in 2021!”

2015

Jacob Goldman is helping to coach the Dawson Robotics Team. Reach out to him to learn about how you can come out and support him and the team!

2018

Quin Ramos is currently a 2nd Lieutenant in the Marine Corps. She writes, “I look forward to seeing what my classmates and other alumni have been doing personally and professionally!”

2019

Emily Hicks is continuing her first year in the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at Colorado State University. She and her boyfriend, Garrett, also adopted Obi, a 2-year-old German Shepherd.

Maggie Klau graduated from Notre Dame in May of 2023 with a degree in marketing and a minor in constitutional studies. She shares, “While at Notre Dame I had the opportunity to intern at Stryker twice, two startups, and held multiple social media internships. I also earned my varsity monogram for four years of work with the women’s basketball team as a student manager. I took some time off after graduation, and in January moved to Washington, D.C. where I am now working as a legislative intern on Capitol Hill in the House of Representatives.

2023

Bennett Opie Life at Princeton has been chaotic, busy, and amazing all at the same time! I live in a quad with three amazing roommates! Aside from learning quantum chemistry and the history of the Middle Ages, I’ve gone to New York, turned clay, gone to several amazing student-made musicals, taken up embroidery, read tons of books, and watched football games to name a few!

But more than anything I love spending my time creating things! From a hand-cranked pickleball launcher for physics to a bookshelf designed and 3D printed using generative design, I’m constantly on the lookout for my next new project!

Although I entered college convinced I was going to be a Mechanical and Aerospace Engineer, I learned that path wasn’t for me. I realized I could never really pick ‘one’ option for engineering, and that I love to understand the world through the lens of data and analysis. With that in mind, I’ve decided to pursue a bachelor of science in Operations Research and Financial Engineering, which is a major dedicated to the intersection between data science, finance, and economics. With this degree, I hope to find myself at the intersection of every type of engineering while having the technical skillset to understand the world through statistical analysis.

College has been such an amazing journey! I’ve met so many people from different backgrounds that each have lived incredibly profound and interesting lives! I feel like I’ve learned as much from the institution as I have from the people I’m surrounded by daily, and I can’t wait to keep learning and discovering!

Have you moved, started a new job, gone back to school, or experienced other exciting life changes in recent months? We’d love to hear what’s new in your world and share your updates with the Dawson community. Send your news and photos to Carly Slagel at cslagel@dawsonschool.org.

Alumni Engagement: Get Involved at Dawson!

BY CARLY SLAGEL, DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT

Being connected to your alma mater after high school may not be something every graduate thinks about, but Dawson is special, and our alumni are as well. The Development team encourages and welcomes our alumni to get involved with the school in various ways. There are several opportunities for alumni to be involved at Dawson, such as becoming an Alumni Council Member, a Class Representative, an Alumni Speaker, a Mentor, engaging with our social media channels, and attending events.

ALUMNI COUNCIL

The Alumni Council connects alumni to each other and to the school. Alumni volunteers from different classes and geographical areas promote that connection both on campus and around the country. Meetings will be held two to four times per year via Zoom. The Council currently has alumni representing classes from 1997 to 2022. We’d love to have you join us for our next meeting!

CLASS REPRESENTATIVES

Class Representatives have one important job: CONNECTION. Keep class spirit alive through calls, emails, social networking, thank you notes, and/or collecting class notes. Dawson is working to update our alumni database, and Class Representatives help to find lost alumni/ae, capture email addresses for all classmates, and coordinate class involvement with alumni events.

MENTORING FELLOW ALUMNI

Our alumni reach out frequently to be put in contact with fellow alumni who attended their college, are in a field of interest, or if they are moving to a new city. As a school, we love fostering this connection, but we need alumni help to do so. If you are interested in becoming a mentor or would like to update your information, please reach out to our team.

ALUMNI SPEAKER

Come back to campus, and be a guest speaker in a class related to your college experience, professional field, or personal hobbies!

If you are interested in learning more or getting involved, please contact Director of Development, Carly Slagel at cslagel@dawsonschool.org.

Alumni Happenings

ALUMNI COLLEGE PANEL

Dawson welcomed members of the Class of 2023 back to campus for a panel discussion about their college experience. The annual Alumni Panel is a great way for current eighth-grade and upper school students to learn from our newest alumni, and it serves as the kick off for our Transition to College Program. Thank you to this year’s panelists Julie Bozzay, Finn Carpenter, Rowan Harral, Mac Montgomery, Bennett Opie, and Gemma Sutton. The upper school students had insightful questions regarding the first semester of college, and our eighth graders asked about the graduates’ high school experience and why they stayed at Dawson. As always, our young alumni had honest and thoughtful answers to the questions posed. We are consistently impressed with our young alumni, and the College Counseling and Development teams are excited to continue to expand this day.

SAVE THE DATE FOR THE ALUMNI RECEPTION

Please save the date for the 2024 Alumni Reception, which will be held on Friday, May 24 on campus. Details for this event will be sent to all alumni via email. If you need to update your email or other contact information, please reach out to Stephen Sherbahn at ssherbahn@dawsonschool.org.

If you haven’t had a chance to make your gift, there’s still time! Donate online at supportdawson.org or make a pledge, payable anytime before June 30, 2024, by emailing cslagel@dawsonschool.org.

Thank You, Dawson Fund Donors!

BY CARLY SLAGEL, DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT

Each year, the entire Dawson community comes together in support of the Dawson Fund. This important campaign is our biggest fundraiser of the year and has an immediate impact on the amazing work of our faculty and staff and on the quality of our programs. As a crucial component of our annual operating budget, the Dawson Fund benefits every program, student, and faculty member. With an ambitious goal of raising $530,000, we launched our campaign in early October to the entire Dawson community. So far, our parents, grandparents, faculty, staff, and alumni have come together to raise $410,141. As we move into the spring, the Development team has two exciting challenges for our community.

FAMILY PARTICIPATION CHALLENGE: This challenge was launched in the fall and is still ongoing, with a goal of reaching 80% participation in each grade. We are halfway to our goal — sitting at 40%! There is still time to make a gift to the Dawson Fund. If you haven’t already given, please consider a gift that is meaningful to you and your family.

ALUMNI GIVING CHALLENGE: This challenge started on March 13 and will go through May 24 as a way to grow our alumni giving program. So far this year, we have received 10 new alumni donations. We hope our alumni will help us to secure 15 additional alumni donations during this challenge.

We are grateful to all of our donors for making Dawson a philanthropic priority. Your contributions have a tremendous impact on our school. On behalf of all Dawson students, faculty, and staff, thank you for your support!

Co-Curriculars and More Accomplishments and accolades you don’t

want to miss!

ATHLETICS HIGHLIGHTS

• Boys’ varsity soccer had a great year with a 9-3-4 overall record, and seeded ninth in the state playoffs.

• Dawson remains at the forefront of middle and high school cycling in Colorado and upheld its reputation by hosting the prestigious Boulder Junior Cycling Schoolyard Cross event.

• Boys’ golf achieved a top three finish in the Mile High League, and Jimmy Leuchten ‘24 secured a first-team spot.

• Boys’ varsity tennis made a great run at state, with five players qualifying for the state tour nament.

• Boys’ varsity basketball made it to this year’s 3A state tour nament. The team concluded their state playoffs with a notable season record of 10-13, securing their placement among the top 25 teams in Colorado.

• Middle school tennis finishes with 6-0 record, securing their third consecutive undefeated season with a flawless 6-0 record. Standout players included Jonny Colagrosso ‘28, Cole Cohen ‘28, Mirabel Richtel ‘29, and Gianna Dinkel ‘28.

• Middle school cross country had numerous top 10 finishes and great runs led by Maddie Bent ‘29, Sophie Roza ‘29, Sam Murphey ‘29, and Aidan Roza ‘29.

• Middle school boys’ basketball showcased talent across all teams, with standout perfor mances from Damien Jordy ‘28 and Kush Kirkendall ‘28.

• The middle school girls’ basketball white team, finished undefeated 11-0 and clinched the league championship.

• Alsa Halquist ‘24 excelled in equestrian championships, ear ning multiple top finishes at the Marshall & Sterling USHJA National Championships.

• Teagan Slaton ‘26 became the Tae Kwan Do World Cup Blackbelt Weapons Grand Champion. She also took home two first-place and a second-place ribbon.

• Linda Buitron ‘24 dominated the Colorado state weightlifting championship, winning three gold medals and being named Best Youth Female Lifter.

• Rylie Cahill ‘25 had an impressive top 10 finish at the US Cycling Nationals in Louisville, KY, and claimed third place at the Hexia Cyclocross Gullegem in Belgium, and clinched victory in the Colorado state championship at Copper Mountain in the short track category for 17-18 year-old.

• Marlo Scherr ‘29 and Rider Neeb ‘26 earned first place High Point trophies in the Boulder Valley Summer Swim League championship finals. They also won their league’s pentathlon.

• Charlie Zapletal ‘34 and Tily Leaneagh ‘34 completed the Vail Kids Adventure Games.

ALL-STATE RECOGNITIONS

• Lauren Muniz ‘24, Ella Stewart ‘23, and Kanoe Bihag ‘25 were all named to the girls’ soccer all-state team.

• Ashtin Gilio ‘23 was named to the baseball all-state team and recognized as Times-CalI player of the year.

• Leo Bellanca ‘23, Holden Walker ‘23, Finn Carpenter ‘23, and Jack Diamond ‘24, earned spots on the all-state boys’ lacrosse teams.

• Charlie Martin ‘25 and Nate Duckett ‘24 made the all-state team in boys’ soccer.

• Peter Devlin named Northern Conference and 4A State Coach of the Year for lacrosse.

OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

• Sukir Namachivayam ‘24, Rowan Roundy ‘24, Shan Amin ‘25, Maddy Halley ‘25, Jake Levy ‘25, Clara Nauth-Bolanos ‘26, participated in the 2023 Student Diversity Leadership Conference (SDLC) in Washington, D.C. and then led a diversity workshop at Dawson, equipping faculty with fresh tools and perspectives to enrich their classroom practices.

• The Dawson Speech and Debate team placed third overall at the CHSAA Colorado state championships and Dawson was certified as a debate school of excellence. Shanti Harrison ‘24 won her second state championship with her spoken word about manipulating risk. Congratulations to Sophia Payvar ‘25, Sage Pewterbaugh ‘25, Eleanor Greer ‘24, Malaika Burkholder ‘24, Adam Fitzgerald ‘25, Riley Cohen ‘25, Shan Amin ‘25 and Sukir Namachivayam ‘24 for their perfor mance.

• At this year’s regional robotics tournament, the middle school robotics orange team earned second place in robot performance and third place in robot design. Team red led the way in robot design, finishing first out of the field and made it to the state competition.

• Middle school student Noah Lalezari ‘30 qualified for the Colorado regional spelling bee.

• Shanti Harrison ‘24 is a finalist for the Boettcher Scholarship.

• Sukir Namachivayam ‘24, Guy Pollachek ‘24, and Grant Simpson ‘24 received letters of commendation from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation.

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Dawson School is dedicated to excellence of mind, body, and character. We prepare students, through challenging and relevant learning, to become creative, resilient problem solvers who bring their best to the world.

Save the Date for Grand Day

Mark your calendars for this year’s heartwarming celebration on November 8. Our 2023 event was the biggest yet, so you won’t want to miss this special day where Dawson students have the opportunity to share their Dawson experience and create wonderful memories with their beloved grandparents and grandfriends. It’s more than just an event; it’s a tradition deeply beloved by our community, celebrating the important bonds between generations. Join us for a day promising laughter, love, and unforgettable moments shared with those who mean the most.