Dunn Journal 2025

Fall/Winter 2025 PAST GLORY, PRESENT GREATNESS: DUNN SOCCER ACROSS THE GENERATIONS A REMARKABLE RISE: THE EARWIG FOUNDATION PORTFOLIO GROWS FROM $5K TO $500K MAPPING OUR MEMORIES OF THE ’70S DUNN SAILING PROGRAM AND OUR BELOVED CAPTAIN SANGER FROM CHALKBOARDS TO CAMPGROUNDS: THE HAIGS’ RETIREMENT ROAD AHEAD

Editor

Mark Geriak

Editorial Team

Amy Geriak, Joshua D. Scroggin

Graphic Designer

An Lai

Head of School

Kalyan A. Balaven

Chair of the Board of Trustees

Karen P. Anderson

Associate Head of School

Simon Sweeney

Dean of Students

Kelsey Sullivan ’06

Director of Dunn Middle School

Jillian Alekiba ’06

Advancement Office

Jenn Freed, Mark Geriak, and Sarah Nickel

Admissions Office

Mike McKee, Amanda Milholland, Sarah Harris

Business Office

Amy Grenier, Lisa Rosenberg, Emily Garcia

Marketing & Communications Office

Joshua D. Scroggin

Additional Contributors

Barbara Haig, Mike Chapman, Alex Westcott, Gretchen Grenier ’26, Cianna Walker-Flom ’05, John Sanger, Phillip Coates ’83, Rie (Algeo) Gilsdorf ’77, Melia Collins-Byrd ’25, Nick Thacher and Jeff Wang ’11

Mission Statement

The Dunn School community educates whole students to their fullest potential in preparation for a life of learning and responsible leadership in society.

Core Values

In the Dunn School Community, we as students, teachers, staff, parents, trustees, and friends are committed to understand and live by the following core values: Emotional Wellness, Physical Readiness, Intellectual Growth, Social Responsibility, Moral Courage.

AUTHENTIC HUMANITY in an Artificial World

By Kal Balaven

Dunn School’s Work

The phone rang this summer. A familiar voice — Mr. Lindsey — my teacher who once saw me when I felt invisible.

He didn’t call to discuss metrics or milestones.

He had just watched our Dunn graduation ceremony. He called to bless.

“I’m proud of you,” he said, after recounting how we honored each graduate — with faculty stories that held their names with care, with student voices centered, with dignity braided through the ceremony.

Why Does That Matter?

Because a blessing is the curriculum no algorithm can write.

Because the echo of a teacher’s care, decades later, is proof that education is not just information transfer — it is formation. It is belonging and becoming. It is authentic humanity in an artificial world.

Why It Matters — Now

Technology is accelerating and providing shortcuts. But children don’t grow by shortcuts. They grow because someone sees them, names their gifts, and invites them to lead. At Dunn, our charge is simple and serious: pair excellence

with empathy; marry innovation to integrity; teach courage that keeps community intact.

What We Built — So Students Can Thrive

• Center for Community, Belonging, and Purpose. A living room for a whole school — where every student is seen, heard, and valued, and where moral courage is practiced, not performed.

• Speech & Debate Invitationals. We’ve made Dunn a Central Coast hub for student voice, spirited competition, and civic engagement — hosting countywide invitationals (including our MLK Tournament) and growing a culture where young people test ideas without losing each other.

• Robert W. Jurgensen Entrepreneurship Program. We continued hosting the Diamond Challenge — a global high school entrepreneurship

competition — while building out a dedicated innovation conference space and handson workshop. Students even engineered an electric golf cart from recycled parts, igniting our E-Car project and the soonto-open Innovation Garage.

• Outdoor Education, rebuilt. From California’s coast, deserts, and high country to transformative expedition work (including Patagonia), students practiced resilience, stewardship, and leadership with boots on the ground and wonder in their lungs.

• Round Square, expanded. Exchanges across Asia, Europe, Australia, and South America continued — and this year our students

were invited to Oxford for Inspiring Voices: The Big Baraza, debating at the Oxford Union. They impressed; I had the honor of accompanying them, and seeing their excellence firsthand.

The Heart of It

Machines can grade. They can even imitate empathy.

But they cannot witness.

They cannot look a young person in the eye, name their becoming, and — years later — call to say, “I’m proud of you.”

That is our work. The slow, human craft of education.

Every new program, every space we open, every step toward sustainability is built on that foundation: see students fully; prepare them not only for success, but for significance.

Gratitude

To our alumni, families, trustees, and friends — thank you. Your time, trust, and investment make this possible. Together, we are proving that even in an age of algorithms and automation, teaching humanity remains the highest form of intelligence.

Ne Tentes Aut Perfice.

Seen, Heard, Known: THE DUNN DIFFERENCE

By Karen P. Anderson, Board Chair

Dunn School’s mission — educating students to their fullest potential in preparation for a life of learning and responsible leadership in society — is not just brochure language. It’s the lifeblood of the school, lived out daily and embodied in alumni like my daughter, Morgan Anderson ’22. Now a senior at the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), pursuing a double major in Motion Media Design and 2D Animation, Morgan quickly noticed that many of her college peers struggled with the basics: balancing deadlines, navigating roommate conflicts, even doing laundry. Her own independence, curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills set her apart, and I credit much of that to her years at Dunn and the extraordinary educators who guided her.

This transformative power of a Dunn education is what makes me honored to serve as Board Chair. Here, students are not just taught — they are fully seen,

heard, and known. Since 2021, Head of School Kalyan Balaven has carried forward founder Tony Dunn’s vision of whole-student education with energy, creativity, humor, and a deep commitment to our community’s values and Tony Dunn’s legacy. Recently, the Board of Trustees unanimously endorsed Kal’s leadership by extending his contract — a clear vote of confidence in his multi-year vision for Dunn’s future. Together, we will sustain the school’s positive momentum, invest in exceptional faculty, and expand opportunities that prepare students not only for academic success but also for meaningful, engaged lives.

Dunn is more than a school — it’s a launchpad for capable, compassionate leaders. Just as it powerfully shaped Morgan’s journey, it will continue shaping countless others. I look forward to working alongside Kal, my fellow trustees, and the entire Dunn community to ensure that every student who walks onto our campus leaves ready to thrive — in college, career, and life. That’s a mission worth championing.

The Power of Us: A VISION FOR THE YEAR AHEAD

By Student Government President Gretchen Grenier ’26

When people describe Dunn, they almost always say the same thing: it’s the community. And they’re right, but that word gets thrown around a lot without always acknowledging what it means here. At Dunn, community is not passive. It’s something we create for each other every day. It’s dynamic, fragile, and shaped by the people in the room, whether that room is in the dorm, the dining hall, a classroom, or the gym.

Each year, that makeup shifts. One senior class leaves, and a new group arrives. New friendships form, challenges surface, and leadership changes hands. Dunn is never exactly the same place twice. But that’s what makes it matter, because each of us helps shape what it becomes. This year, I want to be intentional about that. Over the past three years, I’ve grown into my voice. I’ve learned to take initiative, speak up, listen closely, and lead even when no one’s

asking me to. Now, stepping into this role, I feel ready, not just to represent the student body, but to help move it forward. Leadership at Dunn is not about holding a title: it’s about shaping dynamics, setting a standard, and being visible enough that your actions teach something. I want to help build a year where that kind of leadership isn’t rare, it’s expected.

Within student government, I plan to bring my own direction and tone. I want it to be more visible, more connected to the school as a whole, and more reflective of student voice. However, beyond that, I aim to cultivate a more inclusive culture of student leadership. Dunn offers something most schools can’t: the real opportunity to be heard and make change happen. We should be using that. My goal is to help students recognize the influence they already have, and to use it with care, creativity, and confidence.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES 2025-2026

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Karen Anderson P ’22 Chair Los Altos, CA

Autumn Badelt-Fanning ’99, P ’28 & ’31 Vice Chair

Agoura Hills, CA

Stephane de Bord ’90, P ’21 & ’23 Treasurer San Francisco, CA

Jonathan Sutton Day ’08

Secretary

Los Angeles, CA

Guy R. Walker ’76, P ’05 Governance Committee Chair Santa Ynez, CA

Kalyan A. Balaven P ’27 & ’31 Head of School Los Olivos, CA

TRUSTEES

Yong-Ling Beiman P ’20 Pacific Grove, CA

Sara Cumbelich P ’23 Piedmont, CA

Caroline Dewitt P ’26 Los Angeles, CA

Steve Dini ’89 Mill Valley, CA

Alice Gillaroo

Santa Ynez, CA

Titilola Johnson-Agiri ’04 Los Angeles, CA

Brian McWilliams ‘84 Santa Barbara, CA

Jodi Pitts P ’26

Santa Ynez, CA

Victoria Shannon Hughes ’63 Tiburon, CA

Gladdys Uribe ’98 Los Angeles, CA

CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2025

THE LOS OLIVOS CHAPTER THEIR LIFE’S BOOK

Life is kind of like a book. Some chapters you want to reread forever, some you couldn’t flip past fast enough. Then there are just some characters you never expected to matter who end up meaning the most. And maybe we didn’t get a say in how this story began — maybe we didn’t choose the setting, the school, or the fact that it takes 30 minutes just to get to the nearest Target — but we did write this part together.

We all ended up here — at this tiny school, in a little town called Los Olivos — from places scattered all over the world. From different states across the U.S. and countries such as the Czech Republic, Spain, China, Vietnam, Slovenia, Sudan, and Lithuania.

Somehow, out of the infinite possibilities, the 28 of us ended up here together, sitting under the same white tents, at the same time, going through the same chaotic, exhausting, hilarious four years of high school.

Hanh , It’s hard to capture what you mean to us in just one minute, but I am going to do my best. From the moment you arrived, you didn’t just join Dunn — you became a part of its heart. Within weeks, you were our Loy RA, had seven moms, 150 besties, and every dog was your favorite.

You have a rare gift for making people feel truly seen and known. You remember stories, names, families, even pets. Anytime we are out, I look over and you have made a new best friend. I think you might need to re-take that test that tells

you that you are an introvert. The depth of care and the ability to connect so naturally, is something extraordinary, and I know it will take you so far in this life.

You’ve turned this place into a home — not just for yourself, but for all of us. Your thoughtfulness and care show up in everything you do — from the classroom, community service, to the dorm, to planning your Senior chapel speech in January, to those 100 thank-you cards you bought in March in anticipation of how many thank-yous you wanted to hand out at graduation, you

care deeply and always want the best in everything you do.

During our hours talking in the dorm, mostly because you are procrastinating on your homework, I’ve seen your dreams and your heart — and I know whatever comes next, you’ll carry this same love, light, and warmth with you, and I can’t wait to see your beautiful garden full of roses and 100 dogs. But Hanh, no matter where you go, you will always have a place here. And you’ll be deeply missed — especially by Sonny and me.

- Amanda Milholland

Dear Nyuol,

I firmly believe that it was fate you found your way to Los Olivos. Your journey here was one filled with challenges that most of us here today will never understand. To have the confidence in yourself at the age of 11 to board a UNICEF plane headed for Kenya without your parents is not only incredible but speaks to the heart of your character and demonstrates how hard you will hustle to find personal success. That is why I have full confidence that you will always land on your feet, find your way and that your story will continue to be one worth knowing and certainly one we all will be following.

My only regret is that we did not get more time with you. I love how you jump right into life and are willing to try anything. You are bold, fearless, and deeply kind. One of my favorite

Charlie , last year you attended the Jurgensen’s Marketplace class, stocked and shelved items in the store, and made deliveries for almost half a year before I convinced you to actually take the class for credit. This year, you learned, rehearsed, and then played guitar at the spring musical performance without actually being enrolled in a music class. For two years, you have been driving the golf cart around campus, feeding pigs, building fires, and ferrying supplies. Do you see the pattern? Charlie, you give consistently and

tirelessly of yourself to others and towards your pursuits, and you never seek credit or recognition. And it is for this reason that we want to recognize you all the more. You are kind, funny, analytical, honest, hardworking, innovative, and multi-talented. You are constantly doing, always on the go, never idle, and yet you are steadfast in who you are. And it is for these reasons that you have made loyal friends and a lasting impact on the Dunn community. Charlie, you are completely yourself, and we will miss you.

- Meg Watson

memories of you from this year was at our friendsgiving, where you held court for over 2 hours telling tales of life in Kenya, your journey to the US, and your first impressions of life in America - I don’t remember a time I have laughed that hard.

There's something truly magical about the way you tell a story. With every word, you paint vivid pictures that pull us right into the heart of the adventure, making us feel as if we're living it alongside you. Your tales, always laced with humor, have a way of lighting up a room, bringing smiles and laughter to everyone around. Through your storytelling, you don't just share experiences; you build bridges of friendship, connecting us all with shared joy and camaraderie. Each

story you tell is an invitation to a world where imagination and reality blend seamlessly, creating bonds that

last far beyond the tales themselves. Please, continue to tell stories, be relentless in the pursuit of your dreams and know that you have a community of earwigs supporting you every step of the way.

- Kelsey Sullivan

This is Dash.

And here are a couple of his stories.

First, during Dash’s Dunn basketball career, there were moments where a clueless

smaller opponent would foolishly trespass into his territory. While Dash had the size and strength to clobber these lost souls, he would step aside, allowing players safe passage and to carry on with their lives. His thoughtful actions revealed an instinct to protect rather than dominate This is Dash.

Another example of how Dash has bettered our community is that he built owl houses throughout campus for his Eagle Scout service project. Long after he graduates, those owl houses will remain — an enduring legacy of his thoughtful nature. This, too, is Dash.

On quiet nights in Earwigville, you can hear our feathered residents' soft cooing and chatter as they are perched high in the mighty oak trees. These oaks share the same qualities as Dash — a towering presence, steady and strong, deeply rooted in purpose.

While Dash is a powerful presence in our community, he uses that strength to protect, build, and uplift. This is Dash.

- Mark Geriak

Wainzie.

You are bold. You are fearless. You are a generational change maker. You have big plans, and you have the courage to do the hard work to make the bold vision of the future come true.

To so many in the Dunn community who know your quiet compliance, your immaculate notebook, and your rule-following nature — that may come as a surprise. But we spent a week together in Yosemite — so I know Wainzie.

You sought out Dunn School. You sought out the Jurgensen Program. You grabbed Mike McKee by the lapels and said, "I have to come here. I have to come here now." And then you did the same thing to your parents. You challenged your family to support you, and they did one better — they followed you.

Now your boldness is changing your life. It is changing the life of your family. It is changing the generations that will come. You did that. Keep doing that.

- Chad Stacy

Aliyah ’25:

HARNESSING INNOVATION FOR SOCIAL IMPACT

In January 2025, a number of Southern California fires broke out, devastating the Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and Altadena. In response, Dunn School’s Aliyah Redding ’25 stepped forward to help, demonstrating his care and concern for those in need.

Aliyah co-founded Teens4LA, a groundbreaking fundraising initiative that has raised over $52,000 for wildfire relief efforts. Working in partnership with the nonprofit Another Awesome Day, the initiative provides critical support for first responders, evacuees, displaced families, and youth mental health services throughout Los Angeles.

What sets Teens4LA apart is its innovative approach to fundraising; utilizing Pledge, a Web3-enabled donation platform that accepts both traditional currencies and cryptocurrencies, allows them to tap into a global donor community.

The impact has been both immediate and far-reaching. Beyond the substantial funds raised, the initiative organized successful donation drives at Dunn School and other locations,

collecting six large bins of essential supplies. These donations were distributed through partnerships with regional organizations directly benefiting the Altadena community, local fire departments, and displaced families.

The initiative's success garnered significant media attention, with coverage on KEYT evening news, the Santa Barbara Independent, and Time Inc.'s TIMEHall. Teens4LA was also featured as one of only six nonprofits on “LA Check In,” a livestream benefit presented by The Annenberg Foundation. Former faculty member John Sanger, a Dunn teacher and head of Dunn’s sailing program in the 1970s, learned about Aliyah’s efforts on the local news, then drove up to the Dunn campus to contribute to the cause in person.

The recognition for this exceptional work has been

equally impressive. Aliyah was selected as one of the "top 100 emerging innovators of 2025," earning an Emerging Innovator Award from the University of Delaware Horn Entrepreneurship — an international honor recognizing high school students making positive impacts on their communities.

Looking ahead, Aliyah will speak at ETHDenver 2025, the world's largest blockchainpowered innovation festival. He’ll also present at the Social Innovation Summit 2025, where Teens4LA has been nominated for an impact award recognizing organizations that create meaningful social change through innovative solutions.

Aliyah’s story exemplifies Dunn School's spirit of combining academic excellence with meaningful service.

LASER TAG AND LIFE:

DMS GRADUATION ADVICE FROM JILLIAN ALEKIBA

After the Middle School's exciting Serendipity Day trip for laser tag in Simi Valley, Director Jillian (Haig) Alekiba had a realization. She saw a clear metaphor between the skills students used to win at laser tag and those that contribute to a successful life. She shared her five key tips at the recent 8th grade graduation ceremony.

Stay on the Move

“Don’t stay in one position for long. It won’t be any fun if you do end up winning, but all you did was hide in one spot.”

Now, for life outside of the laser tag arena, I’m not giving advice that you need to move houses, cities, countries, etc. But don’t get too comfortable in your life. Open yourself up to new opportunities, new people, new adventures. Life is full of opportunities and challenges, and you can take them on. Like our Piece of Cake Bike Ride, one step

at a time, you overcame it. You can do hard things. It can be hard to get out of your comfort zone and make new friends. But it is SO worth it. So don’t stay in one position for long — embrace the moving out of your comfort zone.

Get Height

“A bird’s eye view will help you detect and take out your opponents.”

Sometimes, when we are working on a project, maybe a group project, or in a heated discussion, or in an

argument with someone, it is easy to get tunnel vision. You have your objective and point of view, and we can easily get bogged down and miss things. Take a step back, look at it from another perspective. Take time to zoom out for a moment, see if you can see the bigger picture. In laser tag, it will help you see everyone in the arena, and in life, it will help save your relationships with others.

Turn Sideways

“Turning sideways when you have been spotted and have nowhere to go can keep you alive. Turning sideways presents a narrow target for the opponent, as it hides your sensors.”

I’m going to tweak this advice for the real world to “be flexible.” Be flexible, keep an open mind. If you get denied from that internship or summer job that you really wanted, stay flexible. Go to the place that said “Yes” to you and show up as your best self. It may end up being your dream job, but you just didn’t expect it.

Staying flexible, thinking outside of the box, turning sideways when you think you have exhausted your options: these will serve you.

Get Familiar with the Arena.

“Explore the arena and learn the layout. This can come in handy when an opponent is behind you, as you can easily dodge them using your knowledge.”

Taking this to the real world, get to know where you are. Your next school

opportunities that are beyond the scope of what we can offer at DMS. Get to know all the people who work at your school. Get to know all the students. Get to know what clubs you can join, what trips you can go on, and what sports teams you can join. Don’t just stay in your lane and assume that you know all there is. Ask questions and take in all that the school, all that the organizations, all that the world has to offer you.

Don’t be Shy About Shooting

“Shooting more will give you more chances of hitting the opponents.”

Shoot your Shot. Go out there and try. Give it your best effort. Try out for the team, ask to take that advanced course, audition for the play, ask that person out on a date, apply for that study abroad trip.

As Michael Scott from The Office quotes Wayne Gretzky, “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” So get out there and shoot your shot!

Carpe Diem!

DMS YEAR

A CAMPUS CORNERSTONE:

The Story of the STILLMAN PAVILION

More than twenty years ago, Steve Stillman, along with his sons Ben ’05 and Jeremy ’07, gifted Dunn a gathering space that has stood the test of time. The beautiful pavilion they built, affectionately known as the ‘Stillman Pavilion,’ remains a lasting symbol of family, craftsmanship, and the special bond between generations at Dunn.

Those of us who were here in 2005 can remember Mr. Stillman during its construction, perched high atop what was still just the skeleton of the gazebo, a power tool in hand, hammers dangling from his tool belt as he led the way — explaining to his sons and the crew each step needed to complete the next phase of construction. All the students marveled at how quickly it was made and were excited to have it as a part of our campus. For years, it was a beloved spot for romantic trysts, photo ops, quiet reading, or raucous group gatherings.

Over the years, the Stillman Pavilion has occupied three

locations on the grounds: adjacent to the Loy Dorm lounge, in the crossroads between all four dorms, and now, since the construction of the Cindy Bronfman Leadership Center, in its newest home at Dunn Middle School. DMS Director Jillian Alekiba ’06 says that the Stillman Pavilion is one of the most popular corners of campus.

Dunn School mourns the recent passing of Mr. Stillman. Alice Berg, advisor to Ben ’05, shared that "He was a good, generous, and kind man. I only have fond memories of both him and Janine." His pavilion is a wonderful legacy for the Stillman family — a testament to the impact they made on our campus over 20 years ago, making their mark with strength, beauty, and community.

NEW MEMBERS OF DUNN’S PROFESSIONAL ADULT COMMUNITY WELCOME,

Our new faculty and staff members bring diverse passions ranging from mock trial coaching and outdoor expeditions to bilingual education advocacy and conservation work, along with interests in everything from board games and tennis to crafting and 90s music. This exceptional group will enrich student learning, strengthen community connections, and expand experiential opportunities across both middle and upper school programs.

Upper School

Biz Osborne-Schwartz

10th grade English teacher with outdoor education and interdisciplinary experience

Upper School

Jess Mata-Gilman

9th grade Science teacher with a conservation and outdoor education background

Middle School

Jen Nash Middle School Coordinator, returning to Dunn after a short time away

Upper School

Patty Luna Upper School Coordinator, bringing bilingual communications expertise and 8 years as a Dunn parent

Middle School

Ryan Gilman Social Studies teacher with a law background and mock trial coaching experience

Real Money, Real Products, Real Partnerships: ENTREPRENEURSHIP AT DUNN TODAY

By Alex Westcott

The R.W. Jurgensen Entrepreneurship Program prides itself on being eminently responsive when the ideation of our students results in big ideas. The outcomes were the Earwig Cafe, the Earwig Foundation, and leaning into the startup process. We heard the pitches, pondered the potential outcomes, pitfalls, and leadership opportunities, and let Sunny McCluer ’10 build a community space and snack shop. It's been fully enveloped into the

it's allowed close to 200 students to add positions to our impressive foundation portfolio. With the $500,000 mark passed, we're on our way to the audacious goal of reaching a million dollars.

Lastly, when Abe Storey ’16 and Instructor Alex Kehaya created the Earwig Innovations Club and began sharing the startup process with the community, the fully formed program took shape. Their interest

Jurgensen program and is one of the keystones of upper campus life.

Jeff Wang's (’11) desire to invest real money in the stock market hit numerous roadblocks, but he successfully pitched to the Board of Trustees and willed the Earwig Foundation into existence. His gall, drive, and determination resulted in a responsible, intentional portfolio with a philosophy of investing in Great Companies, at Good Prices, and Holding Them Forever. To date,

led to a campus visit by Steve Blank, the godfather of entrepreneurship education. His words continue to drive students through the Lean Launchpad methodology.

Now we pride ourselves on our business collaborations. The list of business collabs is impressive and numerous, including the Los Angeles Clippers, Stellar Snacks Pretzels (Gina Galvin ’16), Reeds Inc., Angel City FC, Wundabar Pilates (Annemarie Rice ’14), Windsor

(parent, ’27), and Ironwood (Jon Sutton Day ’08 and Alex Forster ’08). These businesses have created engaging problem-solving projects, hosted interns, or given us a peek into their day-to-day operations, resulting in a truly unique educational experience for Dunn School students.

We could sit back and pat ourselves on the back, but instead, we continue to seek new collaborations and grind like our students. For example, entrepreneurship students demanded access to the new Innovation Lab, so we now partner with the Innovation Program to offer an Innovation and Entrepreneurship course where our students create products to sell in Jurgensen's Market. No longer theory-based, they have engaging products that have been through the full customer development process. We've partnered with two Universities, Syracuse and Delaware, respectively, to offer dual enrollment courses. In addition, we are a pitch partner location for the University of Delaware's prestigious Diamond Challenge entrepreneurship competition. We are recognized nationwide as leaders in the entrepreneurial education space.

In all, over 45% of Dunn School upper school students are enrolled in an entrepreneurship course or program. We've come a long way from the days of Sunny, Jeff, and Abe, and we couldn't have done it without their creativity, foresight, and vision. It's always been about the students finding their authentic selves; a world-class entrepreneurship program can be that vehicle.

The Road Traveled and the Trail Ahead:

THE DUNN OUTDOOR EDUCATION CYCLE

The mission of the Dunn School Outdoor Education Program is to provide members of the Dunn community with the required knowledge, confidence, and experience to ignite an interest in outdoor recreation on a personal level, develop a sense of stewardship towards the natural world, and build meaningful relationships with classmates, faculty, and staff in challenging, outdoor environments.

We accomplish these goals by focusing on three specific learning outcomes on each trip. First, we use a building block approach to outdoor living skills, so that introductory skills learned in the freshman or sophomore year — such as basic shelter, first aid, and base camping skills — contribute directly to more advanced skills by junior and senior year, such as orienteering and water filtration. Second, we want students to walk away from each trip location

This coming year, we will continue to build and develop the Outdoor Student Leader program. We have a roster of twelve motivated students who have earned their Wilderness First Aid (WFA) certifications, allowing them to voluntarily serve as trail group and base camp assistants alongside our talented professional community, as well as hired outdoor instructors. We also plan to reward these servant leaders with an expedition to the peak of Mount Whitney. By role modeling what proper expedition behavior looks and sounds like, we aim to inspire future generations of outdoor enthusiasts while bringing a strengthened sense of humility, selflessness, and community back to campus after trips.

It is an honor to serve in this role in a program with such a rich and storied history. We look forward to another great year in Dunn Outdoor Education.

Respectfully,

Mike Chapman

Seven-Year Cycle of OE

6th: Hearst San Simeon State Park Intro to OE

7th: Pinnacles National Park Hiking, caving, and rock climbing

8th: Joshua Tree Backpacking and rock climbing, Level 1

9th Fall: Camp Whittier Teambuilding and introductory skills development

9th Spring: Manzana Creek in the Los Padres National Forest/San Rafael Wilderness Appreciation for the local flora, fauna, and human history that is in our own backyard

10th: Channel Islands National Park Basecamping, hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, and service learning

11th: Joshua Tree Backpacking and rock climbing, Level 2

12th: Yosemite high country Backpacking in the High Sierras

Winter Term OE Options

Backpacking expedition in Patagonia

Rock climbing and Wilderness First Aid certification in Joshua Tree

Central Coast exploration focusing on outdoor skills such as kayaking, mountain biking, surfing, stand-up paddling, snorkeling, and trail maintenance with the Los Padres Forest Association.

Barbara Haig, Newly Retired Assistant Head of School for Leadership, EFLECTS ON WINTER TERM 2024

Q: Can you tell us about one of the exceptional Winter Term Trips last December that was available to Dunn students for the very first time?

BH: The South American hiking trip to Argentina was very successful. It was an exciting opportunity for the students to be in the southern hemisphere, and to be following the Outdoor Ed model in the international setting was very exciting for everyone.

Q: Can you tell us about one of the winter term offerings that was closer to home that went especially well?

BH: The Upcycling Furniture session that was conducted by Nancy Yaki was very successful. The pieces that the students produced were lovely, and they were excited to tell me about them whenever I visited the studio.

Q: What is a winter term offering that you always had in your head that never took off that you would like to see happen eventually for Dunn students?

BH: I would love the opportunity for our students to visit some countries in Africa. We had a Round Square trip to Africa, but that was for an international conference and was very limited in scope. So I would love for our students to visit, perhaps, even the home countries of some of our African students that we have had at Dunn or who are currently at Dunn. I think it would be transformative for them.

The Winter Term is an upper-schoolwide, two- to three-week experiential learning experience which occurs between the Thanksgiving and Winter breaks. Many students and faculty consider it the highlight of their school year. However, the current program took over twelve years to develop.

Winter Term evolved from MiniTerm (one week), which originated from Pursuing Passions — a series of 1-2 hour lessons meeting weekly for four consecutive weeks. These were loosely based on the DMS electives model, and by year two, we offered

to go deeper, explore more, and learn alongside students. Mini-Term enabled domestic travel to places like

Last Winter Term:

Agriculture - Farm to Table

Argentinian Adventure

Australia

Basic Car Maintenance

Building Ancient Tech

Central Coast Outdoor

them twice yearly. They proved popular with students and faculty alike, with some student leaders offering their own courses alongside faculty mentors.

When I became Director of Leadership in 2013, I recognized the potential for students to develop practical and leadership skills while gaining confidence. I observed faculty sharing their passion for learning both within and outside their subject areas. The original program centered on faculty offering classes on topics dear to them — everything from breadmaking and car repair to chess and crafts. It grew because faculty wanted

By Barbara Haig

THE HISTORY WINTER TERM of

San Francisco and Death Valley, while the expanded Winter Term allows international travel to countries like Thailand and Costa Rica.

We intentionally balance our offerings among arts, sports, outdoor education, service, and on- and offcampus pursuits. We also provide financial assistance for travel opportunities to students receiving financial aid. We incorporate reflection time, and it is through these reflections and feedback that the program has continued to evolve.

Winter Term now stands as a testament to what's possible when educators are empowered to share their passions and students are given meaningful opportunities to grow beyond traditional classroom boundaries.

Education

Experiencing Awe

Germany & Poland

Golf

Hunger & Homelessness

Italy: Art, History & Culture

Joshua Tree Outdoor Ed Leadership?

Jurgensen's Internships

Jurgensen's Rich Life

TikTok Physics

Upcycle Furniture

China

DMS Adventures

Upcoming

Winter Term:

Patagonia

Rwanda

Spain

Surfing

NYC

Aeronautics

Car Maintenance

Central Coast Outdoor

Adventures

Film Making

Thrift More Waste Less

Upcycling

Chicano Studies

Intro to Law

Hunger and Homelessness

Internships

Reconvening the RALPH LOWE ACADEMY

By Gene Vachon

I still remember the day that Ralph invited me to join The Academy. It was twenty-four years ago. I was a 32-yearold English teacher newly arrived in California, newly arrived at Dunn, and it felt like I was learning a secret handshake to get entrance to a club — what Ralph referred to as “a cabal of academics intent on pushing back the specter of dementia, intellectual torpor, complacency, or all three of those scourges.” Of course, I quickly realized that it was not such a secret and that it was the opposite of exclusive; in fact, one of the principal tenets of The Academy is that it was open to everyone. And, moreover, it worked best when there was a healthy diversity of perspectives present around the table of our lunchtime discussions.

When I arrived for my first meeting, there were many of my new colleagues from many different academic departments, students from all four grades of the Upper School, administrators, retired members of the professional community, and even a few parents. That was the beginning of what quickly became a weekly touchpoint of Friday lunchtime meetings. I kept it as sacrosanct as any other item on my schedule, and I came to rely on that time to help keep things in perspective.

Two years ago, I met with our Head of School and told him that I was coming to the end of my useful days as an administrator and that every part of me — professional, personal, familial, spiritual — needed to make a return to full-time teaching. Part of that return is stepping into the role of the newly created Ralph Lowe Endowed Humanities Teaching Chair. One of my favorite parts of that role is that I now preside over the reconvened Academy, which had been on hiatus since Ralph’s retirement in 2015. We begin every meeting with Ralph’s words:

We call it the Academy because we meet to ask the “impertinent questions” that fuel debate and stock the shelves of the marketplace of ideas. There are very few rules. We all vote on what we will read. We eat lunch and argue or make jokes. Every edition of the Academy is as different as the members each year. The only expectation is that you try your best to attend and, once there, try your best to be interesting.

The Academy (now officially dubbed “Ralph Lowe’s Academy”) is attended by teachers, students, administrators, and parents. We meet in the classroom where I teach, which is also Ralph’s old classroom. The walls are painted and the great oaken conference table is no longer in the center of the room, but we arrange ourselves in an oval, and we stock those shelves with our questions and

A DESCRIPTION OF THE FIRST REVIVED ACADEMY MEETING

There’s something deeply moving about seeing Mr. Lowe’s old classroom alive again with young students, their voices overlapping as they press to share ideas about books. Reading is usually such a private, solitary act that we rarely glimpse how many others are swept up by the same joy. To sit in that familiar space — now filled with new faces choosing which authors to explore together — felt like a gentle echo of Ralph’s presence.

Watching the students light up when they talked about stories was both endearing and reassuring. Even in a world crowded with screens, alerts, and distractions, here they were — gathered where Ralph once taught — discovering the same enchantment he so loved to spark. Beyond students, faculty, and administration, the Academy was fortunate to welcome a special guest at our Friday gathering: Marlea Jarrette-Walmsley, parent of Maile (’04) and Max (’27). A devoted and discerning reader, Marlea quickly became an integral

HAZEL DELONGPRÉ'S SCHOLARSHIP INITIATIVE Building Community, One Thread at a Time:

Last spring, freshman Hazel DeLongpré set out to make a difference in the Santa Ynez Valley while also supporting Dunn School. Her goal: to help fund scholarships for future students. To achieve this, Hazel partnered with Just Porch It, an organization specializing in collecting unwanted clothing, shoes, and other textiles for donation and resale. Through her efforts, Hazel not only raised awareness about sustainability but also helped generate funds to expand access to a Dunn education.

Hazel is a part of a multigenerational family that has had a lasting impact at Dunn School. Her mother, Courtney ’00, was deeply involved during her time on campus — a key member of Don Daves Rougeaux’s Track and Field team, senior prefect, Chief Justice on the Student Government, the yearbook editor, voted “Most School Spirit,” and the go-to nanny for many Dunn families, such as the Challinors. Her cousin, Dedee ’85, returned to work as a Fellow before transitioning

into the administration, where she served as the school’s first Director of Alumni and Development, playing a pivotal role in significant campus improvements, including fundraising for the construction of Boone and Knoles Dorms. And her grandmother, Pam, who ran the dining hall for 21 years, helped shape the heart of campus life. Together, the DeLongpré family has left an indelible mark on the Dunn community.

We interviewed Hazel about this meaningful impact on the Dunn community:

How did the idea for your fundraiser originate?

The idea for my fundraiser started when Lynn Castellanos (a Dunn parent and former middle school staffer) told me she had bags of donations she needed to pass on, so I told her about Just Porch it. She said it worked great and was super convenient. She suggested I should do "a Valley-wide pick up." I began to think about how nice it would be for all the people in the Santa Ynez Valley to donate their old clothes without having to drive 30-45 minutes to an official drop-off location.

What inspired you to choose Dunn as the beneficiary, and why did you focus on student scholarships?

I wanted Dunn to be the beneficiary because I wanted the money from our community to go right back to doing good. I wanted it to go to financial aid because I've heard from everyone who has attended Dunn that it changed their lives. I want more people to experience Dunn School and our wonderful community. I

TO SUPPORT

don't want someone to be excluded from our community because of financial need.

What are some of your earliest memories of Dunn as a kid?

When I was a kid, I often spent time at Dunn, even spending a summer with my grandma, whom I called “Grandi,” in the Dunn dining hall. During that summer, I learned how to swim in the morning at the Dunn pool, and then I would go to help Grandi make lunches for the Dunn camps. I was happily welcomed into the kitchen by the other wonderful ladies who worked there. It was like a little family, and Dunn is like that: everyone has a family here.

What memories do you have of working with your grandma in the Dunn kitchen?

In the summer of 2013, I was four years old. Grandi and I woke up in her on-campus house and walked over to the dining hall. One of my favorite routines was cracking at least thirty eggs into a giant pot and stirring them up. Before I began

mixing, I’d always ask, "Scrambled or sunny side up?" — even though most of the yolks were already broken. Grandi would then let me help serve breakfast treats, usually donuts and cereal bars, from my own little station at the end of the line.

After breakfast, Grandi would walk me over to the summer camp area for swim lessons. When I was done, I’d return to her small kitchen office, sit on the floor, and pull down plates from the shelves to build my version of a Zamboni — the ice resurfacing truck — for reasons I still don’t quite understand. I’d sit there for hours, completely content, just hanging out. I have such fond memories of those early years at Dunn. They were filled with warmth, play, and a deep sense of belonging.

Hazel’s good deeds and the Dunn School Scholarship Fund — while also decluttering your home — please consider donating your gently used clothes, shoes, and other

textiles to the collection bins located in the Dunn Middle School parking lot. Each month, the company Just Porch It sends a check to the Dunn Advancement Office, designated for student scholarships, based on the weight of the items donated.

The Swim Team

Boys’ Tennis, with CIF finalist Jakub Klima

Track and Field Teams

Boys' Soccer

Boys’ Baseball

ADVANCING DUNN’S MISSION TOGETHER

A Message from Jennifer Freed, Chief Advancement Officer

This year has brought a meaningful shift in my work at Dunn, and with it, a renewed sense of purpose. As I step back into the work of advancement, it feels like a natural return to an area that has always mattered deeply to me. My years serving as Dunn’s Chief of Staff broadened my understanding of the school, but I’m grateful to once again focus on the efforts that help secure Dunn’s future and strengthen the experience of our students and faculty. Dunn has been part of my life for more than a decade — both in my work and as a parent—and that combination has shaped how I see the school and its role in young people’s lives.

Over the years, I’ve seen the impact of Dunn’s whole-student approach in many different ways — through the growth of our students, through the deep commitment of our faculty, and through the experiences my own children, Kadence ’25 and Collin ’28, have had here. Those day-to-day moments speak for themselves and remind me why this work is important.

One of the things that stands out most in my return to advancement is the steady generosity of our community. Every contribution, no matter the size, reflects someone’s belief in the value of a Dunn education and in the opportunities we want to provide for every student. This past year, that generosity has been especially strong, and I am continually struck by the dedication of the families, alumni, trustees, and friends who choose to support this school.

I want to offer particular thanks to the members of our Head’s Circle, whose gifts of $100,000 or more make a significant difference across campus. These leadership donors help expand financial aid, advance essential capital projects, and strengthen the programs that define the Dunn experience. Their support has a lasting impact, and we are deeply appreciative of their willingness to lead by example.

As we look ahead, much of our focus will be on building Dunn’s endowment to ensure long-term stability and continued access for students. A stronger endowment will give the school the flexibility it needs to plan confidently for the future. In addition, we have several capital improvements on the horizon — projects that will enhance student life, modernize learning spaces, and support the ongoing evolution of our facilities. These efforts reflect both our history and our ambitions for the years to come.

I feel fortunate to work with a dedicated Advancement Team and an engaged Board of Trustees as we take on this important work together. And I am grateful to every member of our community who chooses to invest in Dunn. Your support strengthens the school in ways large and small, and it allows us to keep moving thoughtfully and confidently into the future.

With gratitude,

Jennifer Freed, CFRE Chief Advancement Officer

Investing in a Place to Belong: SUPPORT OUR ANNUAL FUND

The generous support we receive from families, trustees, alumni, professional community members, and friends is a critically important investment in Dunn’s present and future, contributing to students’ sense of belonging in our classrooms, dorms, athletic fields, outdoor education trips, and so much more.

The philanthropic goal of each year’s Advancement Team is to raise 15% of the overall budget, enabling Dunn to keep tuition costs as manageable as possible for our families. This 15% allows us to meet the needs of each school year, but like every business — and nonprofits in particular — Dunn has a vision for making our school even more impactful for our students, providing them with even greater opportunities, facilities, teachers, and experiences.

Every gift makes a difference to the Dunn community and counts toward this year's goals of boosting participation and raising $2.1M, our budgeted philanthropic giving goal for the 2025-26 Annual Fund. Contributing to the Annual Fund helps Dunn meet critical operational costs and fund our initiatives.

When considering a gift to the Annual Fund, we encourage you to refer to these potential designation areas, bearing in mind that an unrestricted gift can go the furthest.

Greatest Need (Unrestricted Annual Fund)

Providing crucial flexibility for sudden needs and immediate priorities

Tuition Assistance

Ensuring that family income is never a barrier to a Dunn School education

Faculty Excellence

Supporting professional development, compensation, and accommodation

Academic & Experiential Programs

Educating whole students to their fullest potential

Athletic Programs

Supporting the school’s sports teams and facilities

YOUR SUPPORT, OUR SUCCESS: A DATA-DRIVEN LOOK

Your donations to the Annual Fund, Capital Campaigns, and Endowments allow Dunn to thrive. We hope this data is both inspiring and gratifying!

Upper School Students Who Attended DMS:

Percentage of students receiving some financial aid:

Total amount awarded to students receiving tuition assistance:

International Students at Dunn:

Average class size:

Number of nationalities represented in the student body this year: The Class of 2025 received

Million

Upper School Enrollment:

Brand new classes launched this year: (Introduction to Earth Science, Introduction to Innovation, and Robotics)

THANK YOU!

HEAD OF SCHOOL CIRCLE

$100,000 OR MORE

Mike Boone ’79

Jonathan Day ’08

Janice and Julian Gangolli, P ’27

Alice Gillaroo and Susan Jorgensen

Robert Lieff

Mo and John Pritzker, P ’27

Eric ’89 and Lulu Roberts

Roundbarn Ranch and Co.

CHANGE MAKER $50,000-$99,999

Autumn Badelt-Fanning ’99 and Steve Badelt, P ’28 and ’31

Randy ’71 and Aya Clark

Caroline DeWitt and Kenneth Burry, P ’26

CJ and Mary Jackson, P ’04, ’06 and ’06

William ’80 and Ingrid Jackson, P ’21

Steven Lowe

Wendy Shepherd ’73

Maria Zhang, P ’23

VISIONARY $25,000-$49,999

Eliza Flug, P ’26

Amy and Michael Grenier, P ’24 and ’26

Greg Heckman, P ’27

Russell Ledbetter ’82

Anonymous

Doug and Rita Otto, P ’10

Robert ’67 and Marcia Shuwarger

Sandy and Vince Sullivan, P ’06 and ’09

Michael S. Wyer (d)

CHAMPION $10,000-$24,999

Blake and Jill Bertea, P ’26

Kimberly Branagh, P ’21 and ’23

Erin and William Coulter, P ’27, ’29 and ’32

Stephane de Bord ’90, P ’21 and ’23

Michael and Christine Franke

Margaret Hecht

Lynn Madonna, P ’27

Jeannie O'Donnell, P ’27

Ramsey Asphalt Construction Corp.

Amy and Dominic Rioux, P ’30 and ’31

Allison and Marc St. John, P ’27

Kristi and Jonah Sulak, P ’31

Kelsey Sullivan ’06

Logan Worchell ’08

Isaac and Lara Zekaria, P ’27 and ’27

AMBASSADOR $5,000-$9,999

Karen and Patrick Anderson, P ’22

Whitney and Philip Arnautou, P ’14

Yong-Ling and Irving Beiman, P ’20

Hanna and Robert Benfield, P ’28 and ’31

William and Cindi Bone, P ’85, ’86, and ’90

Alioune Diouf and Annemarie Diouf, P ’24 and ’24

Mary Heyden and David Anderson, P ’25

Susan Holland and David Foote, P ’24 and ’25

Chris and Michell Kawaja, P ’28

Barry and Janet Lang

Robert and Kristine Muller, P ’04

Jonathan and Rebecca Neeley, P ’09 and ’15

Kathryn and Paul Rohrer, P ’31

Bruce ’73 and Anne Thacher

1957 FOUNDER $1,957-$4,999

Bill ’64 and Claudia Allen

Maddie Bailey ’22

Stephanie Bailey, P ’22

Corey and James Bouvet, P ’28

Adam Brezine and Caroline Scippa, P ’25

Ray and Ami Carpenter, P ’26

Barrett and Tria Cohn, P ’27

Daniel and Julie Cutforth, P ’29

Stephen ’89 and Lisa Dini

Flik Independent School Dining

Barbara and Willy Haig, P ’02 and ’06

Elizabeth ’72 and Newlin Hastings

William G. Jason ’74

Birgit and Joerg Joerding, P ’28

Kenneth Kahn

David Kokorowski and Jennifer Aft, P ’25 and ’27

Peter and Electra Lang, P ’22

Jon Lukas ’92, P ’27

Peter Luttrell ’92 and Stephanie White

Brian ’84 and Glinski McWilliams

Johannes and Lucia Overgaag, P ’89

Jodi and Sean Pitts, P ’26

Anne Sage and Jesse Sgro, P ’31

The Santa Ynez Valley Family School

Beth Vidakovits and

Richard Denman, P ’26

Guy R. ’76 and Molly Walker, P ’05

Maria and Erik Winn, P ’24 and ’27

ADVOCATE

$1,000-$1,956

Laurie and Curtis Alexander, P ’28

Anonymous

Kalyan Balaven and Fatemeh

Farahmandfar, P ’27 and ’31

Tim and Ginny Bliss, P ’04 and ’06

Bolton & Company

Loren Booth, P ’01

Brooke Comer ’76

Michelle Curtin, P ’18, ’19, and ’27

Keith ’67 and Sharon Dawson

Peggy de Strakosch, P ’04

Barry and Lauri DeLaczay, P ’23

David and Anna deLaski, P ’31

Patrick Dolan ’07

Robert Fong and Shirley Tse, P ’26

Mary and Steve Gorski, P ’23

Mike Griffiths, P ’27

Wally Haas ’68

Jennifer Hotchkis

Megan McGrath Gates, P ’28

Dan Meisel

Thomas Parker

LynDee and Ross Rankin, P ’99 and ’01

Dan and Elizabeth Reeves, P ’96

David Rinker

William ’65 and Daisy Spurgin

Samantha ’05 and Robert Stalling

Deanna Stamm and Brian Pettigrew, P ’28 and ’30

Bruce Tognazzini ’63

Mr. Mark J. Van Hirtum and Mrs. Gloria H. Van Hirtum

Christina Zimmerman ’08

PARTNER $500-$999

David Broganer

Rick Choi ’08

Cailen and Sean Conroy, P ’31

Sara and Bill Cumbelich, P ’23

Don H. Daves-Rougeaux

Dean and Barbara Davidge, P ’98

Terri Devine

Disney

Eric and Missy Escalante

Hayley Firestone ’77 and Dennis

Patrick, P ’05 and ’07

Thomas Gomez, P ’29

Christine and John Hartshorn, P ’29

Pamela Hill

Delinah and Gregg Hurwitz, P ’23

Marlea Jarrette-Walmsley and Robert Walmsley, P ’04 and ’27

Shinji Kurashige ’93

Heidi Liebman

Jason Lin ’15

Mike and Christine McKee, P ’26

Lynne Morgan

Roxane Olsen-Markee, P ’22 and ’25

Jonas Perez and Isabel Paz, P ’27 and ’32

Shonna and Robin Sam, P ’28

Michael Sathaphone ’75

Eric Schrager ’04

Jeffrey Shannon ’61 and Lis Olsen

Wendell Shepherd ’00

Lily Hahn Shining, P ’29

Winnie Sonnek, P ’25

Patsy Stecher, P ’77 and ’83

Morton Sullivan ’64

Shannyn Tupper and Ray Kahn, P ’18 and ’27

Dominica and Michael Valencia

Brendan Wood

Tony Zheng ’23

EARWIG UP TO $499

Taylor Abernethy

Benjamin Ableman ’20

Ishah Ahumada, P ’28

Jillian ’06 and Daniel Alekiba

Judith Alex and Peter Vestal, P ’19

Alessandra Ambrosio, P ’27

Heather Anastasia

Andersen Tax

Jeremy Anticouni, P ’29

Albert Arroyo

Bennett Austin, P ’25

Helena and Cris Avery

Lisa Baker

Miya Beiman ’20

Nathan Bennett ’05

Angela Benson and Kai Hallauer, P ’31

Olivia Berman ’20

Jennifer Beyer

John D. Billig ’64

Dwight Booker

Theodore Brown ’19

Orin Cadwell ’05

Laura and David Carmany, P ’25

Dania Carrasco and Peter Stephenson, P ’26 and ’29

Duarte Carreiro, P ’28

Heather Carreiro, P ’28

Zoe Carter ’05

Ulises Castaneda and Alejandra Santos, P ’15

Chantalle Castellanos ’05

Mike and Alley Chapman

Susie Childs

Justin Ching ’07

Rick Clifford

Phillip Coates ’83

Melia Collins Byrd ’25

Sahid Conteh ’16

Tommy ’05 and Amanda ’05 Cortez

Wade Cowper ’05

D’Ambrosio Trading, Inc.

Paul de Bord ’23

Charlie ’05 and Jaz ’07 de L'Arbre

Bill Desser

Leanna Drammer

Cheryl Dugan ’85

Michael Dunn and Lynn Shapiro, P ’06 and ’09

Julie and Brian Dunstan, P ’28 and ’31

Lockwood ’67 and Anita Eddy

Donna Eichelburger

Leanne and Ryan Elliott, P ’26 and ’28

Jennifer Ellis, P ’21 and ’24

Phillip Eukel

Frank and Andrea Felden, P ’26

Noah Fell ’05

Meghan and Bryan Fox, P ’26

Jennifer Freed, P ’25 and ’28

Nicole ’05 and Drew Freedman

Herbert ’72 and Janet Friedman

Rianna Gallegos

Emily and Fred Garcia, P ’30 and ’32

Juliana Garcia and Andres Rojas, P ’26

Maria and Ramiro Garcia

Esron Gates, P ’28

James ’75 and Martha Geller

Mark and Amy Geriak, P ’21

Sarah and Alfred Gonzalez, P ’26 and ’30

Jeffrey Gray

Katie Greer, P ’28

Ian Copeland Griggs ’06

Jackson Grunzweig ’20

Maggie Hall ’05

Peter Hamblin ’74

James Hare ’05

Sarah and Matthew Hunt, P ’28 and ’29

Trish Hecker, P ’23 and ’26

Wes Hensley

Barbara and Marlon Hibbert, P ’25

Stephanie Holthaus ’85, P ’21, ’23, ’30

Palmer Hughes ’71

Titilola Johnson-Agiri ’04 and Dorion Logan

Deanna and Christopher King, P ’29 and ’30

Kay and Andy Knightley, P ’15

Roger ’70 and Martha Kumler

Ian Lamm ’20

Robert Lawrence, P ’15

David Li ’25

Susan and Stephen Lisenby, P ’09

Taylor Lohman ’06

Debbie ’75 and Thomas Loucks

Steven and Philomena Loy

Tanya and Gil Lubetzky, P ’18, ’20, and ’28

Jeanne Mailliard, P ’15

Steven ’75 and Katherine Manning

Bethany Markee, P ’22 and ’25

Francisco Martinez

Eleanor and Mark Mascheroni, P ’13

Rex Mascheroni ’13

Ian Mayta

Beth and David McCoy

Betsy and Jim McRoberts, P ’21

Brig Merrell ’75

Amanda Milholland

Addison Morphy ’04

Amy and Michael Musson, P ’24

Perla Navarro Lewis

Michelle Neels ’85

Suzanne and Wulfrin Oberlin, P ’99

Kelsey Offield

Janette Orozco and Erik Padilla

Winsor ’75 and Janu Orrick

Nancy and Carlos Ortiz

Brian Panosian ’84

Meg West and Avrey Parsons-Field, P ’31

Robert and Stephanie Perez

Jill Pettley Schafer ’77 and Chris Schafer

Gina Plastino

Esther Plaza

Brett and Betsy Potash, P ’30

Monika Prince and Andrew Keeley, P ’28

Veronica Ramirez Garcia and Martin Ramirez Suarez

Thea Reagan

Cambria Rheinschild ’26

Regina Risi, P ’23

Pete and Gabi Robbins, P ’94

Roots Housing

Lisa Rosenberg

Charity and Arlex Rovelo, P ’28

Jenifer and Grant Sanregret, P ’31

Santa Ynez Valley Wealth Advisors LLC

Tom Scarborough

JD and Samantha Scroggin, P ’30

Shea Sechler

Jenn and Marcelino Sepulveda, P ’27

Douglas Siddoway

Lara ’97 and Darin Simmons

Joseph Sinclair

Dash Smith ’25

David Soyster ’75

Chad and Sarah Stacy, P ’20, ’22, ’24

and ’27

Simon and Lauren Sweeney, P ’31

Irena Syptakova and Karel Syptak, P ’25

Rosemary Talmadge

William Tsai ’05

Julianne and Zachary

Tullis-Thompson, P ’22 and ’29

Nicole Udkow, P ’29 and ’31

Jonna Uski and Jan Ruoho, P ’25

Gene and Vicki Vachon, P ’24

Kate Vachon

Eva Van Prooyen

Greg Vernon

Leslie and Nick Vincent, P ’04, ’06, ’12

Cianna Walker ’05

James and Margaret Watson, P ’26 and ’29

Wealth Management Strategies, Inc.

Alex and Tracy Westcott, P ’28 and ’28

John and Pam Wieben, P ’03

Alexandria and Gary Wilson, P ’28

Deborah Wilson

Jefferson Woeste

Matt Yaki, P ’14

Mary Zekaria

FOUNDATIONS

BNY Mellon Charitable Gift Fund

Eric and Lulu Roberts

Family Foundation

Kadima Foundation

MoJo Philanthropic Fund

The Ann Jackson Family Foundation

Fidelity Charitable

Ove W. Jorgensen Foundation

Did you know?

You can now easily donate to Dunn via Venmo — @earwignation

Schwab Charitable

TE Foundation

The Mae Family Foundation

The Thornton Foundation

Goldman Sachs Gives

Coulter Family Charitable Fund

Dana & Albert R. Broccoli

Charitable Foundation

David and Leighan Rinker

Foundation Inc

Jewish Community Foundation of Los Angeles

Page & Otto Marx, Jr. Foundation

Sangham Foundation

Whitecross Foundation

Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians

The Neeley Family Fund at Spur

Community Foundation

Electra McDowell Lang and Peter Alfred Lang Fnd.

George M. and Barbara H. Sage Fund

Jason Family Foundation

Marshall E. Rinker, Sr. Foundation, Inc.

The E. Richard Jones

Family Foundation

New York Life Foundation

Santa Barbara Foundation

The Meisel Wendel Fund

The San Francisco Foundation

Charities Aid Foundation America

Santa Ynez Valley Foundation

American Online Giving Foundation, Inc.

UK Online Giving Foundation

ANTHONY B. DUNN HERITAGE

SOCIETY OF 1957 MEMBERS (PLANNED GIVING)

Claudia R. Allen and Willis M. Allen ’64

Anonymous

Anonymous

Mike Boone ’79

Steven Breeze ’61

Hugh Carpenter ’66

Joseph V. Costello III ’70

Jennifer DuBois and William DuBois ’80, P ’25

Edward and Joyce Engs III, P ’80

Beryl Geller, P ’75

Russell Ledbetter ’82

Robert and JoNan LeRoy

Gail McGrath, P ’79

John S. Meier ’63

John H. Sanger

Guy R. Walker ’76, P ’05

William and Claire Wolfenden

Michael S. Wyer ’65

Family Trust ’84

IN KIND DONATIONS

(In)Larkin

Jillian Alekiba

Alisal Tennis

All Access Napa Valley

Barbed Wire Barber Shop

Blair Fox Cellars

Corey & James Bouvet

Kimberly Branagh

Lyn Branagh

Brave & Maiden

Brothers Restaurant at the Red Barn

C & E Fine Jewelry

California Tacos

Jeffrey Chernov

Chumash Casino Resort

Mr. Christopher Coburn

Sahid Conteh

William & Erin Coulter

Crown Point Vineyards

Jonathan Day

Rick Denman

Terri Devine

Seal Diouf

Dunn Innovation Students

El Rancho Marketplace

Phil Eukel

Evan's Ranch Winery

Figueroa Mountain Brew Co.

First Street Leather

Christine Franke

Janice Gangolli

Esron Gates

Mark Geriak

Grassini Family Vineyards

Hecker's Coastal Tree Care

Heritage Goods & Supply

Hitching Post

Palmer Hughes

Island Packers

Birgit Joerding

Katherine Greer Fine Art

Renee Kelleher

Fred Lageman

Leonardo's

Los Olivos General Store

Los Olivos Wine Merchant & Cafe

Lou

Maverick Saloon

Mer Boutique

Amanda Milholland

Montecito Med Spa

Lynne Morgan

Motley Crew Ranch

Moxi

Naturally Healing Haircuts

Old Danish Fudge Kitchen

Park Hyatt New York

Peasants Feast

Piocho/Happy Canyon Vineyard

Jodi Pitts

Mo & John Pritzker

Rafa Ruiz Art

Ronald Reagan Presidential Library

Rudy's Mexican Restaurant

Daisy Ryan

Saarloos & Sons

Santa Barbara Adventure Company

Santa Barbara Zoo

Santa Ynez Medical Aesthetics

Seattle Pickle Co.

Mrs. Michelle Snyder Curtin

Solvang Knives Etc.

Deanna Stamm & Brian Pettigrew

Star Lane Vineyard

Stolpman Vineyards, LLC

Kelsey Sullivan

Sunstone Winery

Super Grill Authentic Mexican Food

Tales from the Tavern

Talley Farms

Rosemary Talmadge

Charlotte Terzian

The Bakery Farmstand

The Genevieve

The Inn at Mattei's Tavern, Auberge

Resorts Collection

The Landsby

The Magic Castle

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Solvang Bakery

Toscana

Shannyn Tupper

Vega Vineyard and Farm

Via Carota

Vino Vaqueros Horseback Riding

Meg Watson

Alex Westcott

Logan Worchell

Youth Empowered Gym

Zaca Coffee

Lara Zekaria

Isaac & Lara Zekaria

Christina Zimmerman

Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of donor lists, occasional errors and omissions do occur. Please let our Advancement Office know of any errors or omissions by contacting us at advancement@dunnschool.org.

GIFTS ENDOWED

The Dunn School endowment, generously supported by dedicated alumni, parents, and benefactors, provides a critical foundation for the school's long-term financial stability. By contributing to this endowment and by supporting our school's future, donors help create a legacy of learning, growth, and opportunity.

The interest from each of these endowments helps fund a specific purpose, such as a scholarship or maintaining school operations.

If you are interested in contributing to any of Dunn School’s existing endowed funds, or if you would like to set up a new endowment, please contact our Advancement Office at advancement@dunnschool.org.

Current Endowment Funds:

The market value shown for each fund reflects the cash value as of June 30, 2025, and does not include current pledges. Donors who gave in the 2024-25 fiscal year are listed below each fund description.

Ralph Lowe Endowed Chair in the Humanities

$158,868

The Ralph Lowe Endowment permanently honors Dunn's beloved teacher and alumnus. This distinguished position is a lasting tribute to Ralph's unwavering dedication to literature, creative writing, and the Dunn School community. Thanks to the generous donations made in Ralph’s memory, an endowment fund now supports an English faculty position. The endowed chair celebrates Ralph’s passions and ensures his traditions, like leading Lowe’s Academy, will continue to inspire future generations of Dunn students.

Earwig Foundation Fund

$556,882

Created by students in the school’s entrepreneurship program, this fund is a student-managed account that invests net income from the Earwig Café. When the fund reaches the $1 million mark, it will be allocated to student scholarships.

General Endowment Fund

$820,230

Established in 1989 by George and Leanne Roberts, P ’89, this endowment supports ongoing operating costs associated with curriculum and programs, athletics, technology, repairs, maintenance, and operations.

George and Leanne Roberts Scholarship Fund

$1,413,620

Established in 1975 and bolstered significantly by a $350,000 gift from George and Leanne Roberts in 1988, this endowment provides tuition assistance. It ensures that future students will have an opportunity to attend Dunn School.

Jackson & Luton Family Faculty Fund

$526,062

Provides professional development funds for faculty to attend teaching conferences and workshops, ensuring Dunn School teachers maintain classroom excellence.

Mike Beck Chair of Responsible Leadership

$533,210

This fund endows a faculty position to ensure that leadership is a core and intentional part of Dunn School's curriculum.

Nancy Roome Endowment for Learning Skills

$230,568

In the early 1970s, Nancy Roome arrived at Dunn with a clear vision: to create a supportive learning environment for students with dyslexia and other learning differences. Her pioneering work has had a profound impact on the lives of countless students. Another lasting aspect of Nancy's legacy is the growth of her department, now known as the Learning Strategies program. Nancy was the sole learning support teacher at the start of her Dunn career. The Learning Strategies program has since flourished into a team of six educators who continue her vision of helping students with learning differences daily, supporting dozens of students. The Nancy Roome Endowment ensures this legacy endures by funding tuition assistance, professional development, and faculty salaries.

Paul Overgaag Memorial Fund Merit Scholarship

$571,280

The fund was established on May 11, 2005, by Eric Roberts ’89, Stephane de Bord ’89, and Lucia Overgaag P ’89 in memory of Paul Overgaag ’89 to keep Paul's influence and memory alive at Dunn School. The fund makes awards in two areas that were important to Paul and his friends: The Dunn School Spelling Bee and support for a Dunn School boarding scholarship.

Roberts Family Leadership Fund

$1,003,918

Established in 2014, this endowment fund supports all expenses related to the School's leadership program.

Rowland & Sullivan Family African Scholarship

$3,629,975

Provides scholarship dollars for tuition, room, meals, and living expenses for deserving African students.

The

Nancy Ortiz Scholarship Endowment for Learning Strategies

$99,765

Established in 2013 in honor of Nancy Ortiz, a teacher at Dunn School for 22 years, this endowment fund provides tuition assistance for students who qualify for the Learning Strategies Program and whose families qualify for financial aid.

The

Page and Otto Marx Endowment Fund

$825,835

The Page and Otto Marx, Jr. Foundation established this permanently restricted endowment fund in 2008 to provide scholarships for American minority students whose parents demonstrate their own interest in their children's education by paying a portion of the tuition themselves. This foundation's $20,000 annual gift is contingent upon an annual matching challenge.

A Night of GENEROSITY A Future TRANSFORMED

Last spring, the Dunn community rallied together in an extraordinary show of support, raising $486,000 at the Gala. But that number tells only part of the story — it represents love, commitment, and a shared vision for our students' futures.

The attendees’ generosity will create more scholarships, enable more field trips, support more inspired teaching, bring more visiting speakers and mentors to campus, and generate more of those transformative moments that shape young lives. The evening was a powerful reminder of our community's strength and our collective mission to foster belonging, amplify student voice, and shape the future with compassion and courage.

You

for transforming one evening into a lasting impact. Thank

LUMNI FEATURES A

From Snack Shack to Stock Standout to Future Scholarship Fund: STUDENTS TURN

$5,000 into $500,000

Dunn entrepreneurs in action: Olivia Holland ’25, Fallon McKee ’26, and Grace Pitts ’26 compete in a business competition.

The Earwig Foundation — Dunn’s student-managed stock fund — has officially reached the remarkable milestone of $500,000!

Over the past fourteen years, more than 200 students have stepped into the role of investor: researching, pitching, and bravely clicking “buy,” guided by the golden rule: Invest in great companies, at good prices, and hold them forever.

The Earwig Cafe, relaunched in 2010, is Dunn’s version of a student snack bar, although that business model has evolved significantly in the last 15 years. A small kitchen with a refrigerator and freezer allowed the Cafe employees to stock and sell frozen items and cold drinks.

A window facing the quad was the serving counter in the evenings, where boarding students would rush and clamor for late-night stacks during the brief time between study hall and lights-out. The energy and excitement the new cafe elicited from the community was unparalleled: it was a hit. Founder Sunny (McCluer) Holmes ’10 shared, “While there were some vague hopes that it might generate modest revenue for the school, its primary purpose was to provide a space for students to gather and enjoy a quick meal.”

Within months of the Cafe’s opening, an investment club was formed, and then the Earwig Foundation was established — a philanthropic endeavor funded by the Cafe's proceeds and students' investments. What began in 2010 as a $5,000 loan from Head of School Mr. Beck and the

bold relaunch of the Earwig Café has blossomed into an extraordinary legacy. Students not only repaid the loan but also transformed the café into a thriving enterprise and built a stock portfolio that has consistently outperformed its investing benchmark.

When the fund reaches $1 million, those savvy student investments will be converted into scholarships for future Dunn students — turning lessons in finance and entrepreneurship into lasting opportunities. Alumni can take pride in knowing that their early support and vision helped lay the foundation for this success. To mark the future $1 million milestone, Dunn will host a campus celebration, bringing together everyone who has played a role in writing this remarkable story.

Sunny McCluer ’10 (left), Keegan Mitchell ’10, and Maria Zepeda ’10 featured in a 2009 newspaper article about relaunching the Earwig Cafe.

Sunny McCluer Reflects on the

EARWIG CAFE

Sunny (McCluer) Holmes ’10. The visionary and original driving force behind the Earwig Cafe, Sunny transformed a former office adjacent to the barn into the new iteration of the Earwig Cafe. With a paintbrush in hand and plenty of elbow grease, Sunny created a bright, welcoming space where students could gather.

“When I look back on it now,” Sunny shared, “it was a foundational part of who I am today. It was a jumpingoff point.” After graduating from Dunn, Sunny earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona, California. Now the Chief Operating Officer of Ride On, she helps lead an adaptive horseback riding program that provides meaningful opportunities for children and adults with physical and cognitive disabilities. One of the most extensive therapeutic horse programs in the nation, she oversees Ride On’s 24 employees, 30 horses, three locations, and she works with a board of directors — and she took her first steps in this direction as the founder of the Earwig Cafe.

She recalled, “In order to have a running retail business, I had to become a boss. I learned that it took a lot of work, and at times it was a blow to my self-confidence. Not all the days were easy. My parents and Mr. [Phil] Martin helped me with confidence. Mr. Martin would tell me, “You’ve got this.” There were definitely times when being the leader wasn’t easy. Running a business takes real effort. I spent countless hours at Costco and in the Café — stocking shelves, cleaning, and doing all the behind-the-scenes work to keep things running.”

Sunny was thrilled with the news about the Earwig Foundation’s milestone. “It’s just so amazing what it turned into. In my wildest dreams, I never thought I would jump-start a $500,000 investment account that would provide scholarships for Dunn

From Sunny’s Advisor, Chemistry Teacher

Phil Martin:

Aww, Sunny McCluer! One of my absolute favorites from my time at Dunn. Such a good soul. It warms my heart to see her continuing to make a real difference in her community.

Sunny was trying to manage a small business while maintaining friendships with both the store staff and its patrons. No small task when considering they were all in high school at the time. Though she sometimes grew frustrated or flustered by the challenges, she worked through them, even if sometimes begrudgingly. I was proud of the maturity and balance she showed, qualities that I'm sure serve her well today.

It’s no surprise to hear the store is thriving — knowing how much heart and effort Sunny poured into it.

students. It’s just so amazing that our Earwig Cafe and the Investment Club have turned this into such a remarkable story.”

Keegan Mitchell responds with

GRATITUDE AND HUMILITY

2009

Sunny McCluer ’10 and Keegan Mitchell ’10 revive the Earwig Café, directing proceeds to the future Earwig Foundation Fund.

2010

Jeff Wang ’11 sparks a bold new chapter for the Earwig Foundation Fund, inspiring the creation of a student-led Investment Club that empowers students to invest, learn, and shape their own financial legacy.

2011

The Investment Club is founded, investing the profits from Earwig Café in Microsoft, ConocoPhillips, and Total.

2013

Earwig Inc., the first entrepreneurship class launched by Chad Stacy and Alex Kehaya, blends investing, startups, and café management.

2016

First successful business collaboration with Reed’s Inc. (Ginger Beer).

2022

Through the support of Mike Boone ’79, the program expands and is renamed The RW Jurgensen Entrepreneurship Program, adding five new business courses.

2025

The Earwig Foundation Investment Account surpasses $500,000; more than 200 students have engaged in the program to date.

Keegan Mitchell ’10. Senior Keegan served as the CFO of the Earwig Cafe during its first year. He reflected, “I relished every moment of learning about financial management, teamwork, and entrepreneurship, not realizing how this project would shape my future (the experience was even used on my résumé when I landed with the company I'm still with today).” Keegan recalls, “Hot Pockets and other Costco goodies were the initial selling point when Sunny came to me with the idea of starting the Earwig Cafe. But that was naïve of me. Shortly after opening in the fall of 2009, it became clear that we had crafted something much deeper: a student-run business that offered far more than just food, quickly drawing an enthusiastic community and setting the stage for lasting impact.”

Keegan Mitchell shared the following, which summarizes the pride, gratitude, and humility shared by all of the alumni who played a part in the Earwig Foundation. “Years later, I’ve watched with pride as the Earwig Cafe’s legacy grew beyond what any of us imagined. The knowledge that this investment fund will soon provide scholarship opportunities for future students leaves me in awe. While my time at Dunn and with the Cafe was brief, seeing students continue to build on Sunny’s original vision is one of my proudest achievements.”

Jeff Wang on the Origins of the

INVESTMENT CLUB AND EARWIG FOUNDATION

Jeff Wang ’11. Jeff was the founding member of the student Investment Club, which has evolved into a thriving student portfolio. Newly hired in 2010, former Dunn School CFO Chad Stacy remembers it this way: “Jeff walked into my office and said something to this effect: ‘Hi, I'm Jeff. I heard you are an investor. I want to start an investment club, but I hate the fake online investing games because they reward short-term investing behavior, so I was hoping you could give us real money for our club to invest.’ A lightbulb went off in my head.” Jeff wrote the following to share with us:

Now, fourteen years after my graduation — and with the benefit of perspective — it’s remarkable to realize that something I was part of has grown into a lasting legacy. Looking back, I see that this story was rooted in deep goodness, sustained by people whose passion and vision were grounded in their love for Dunn. Together, we built something that has truly stood the test of time.

Three forces made it possible for a student scholarship fund to take root at Dunn: the compassion of the student body, the culture of innovation on campus, and the power of mentorship.

The Compassion of the Students

One of the primary reasons a student fund could be effective was due to the character of the Dunn community. Students were hungry to make a difference. I watched prefects rally the school after natural disasters, inspiring us to raise money for people thousands of miles away. I saw how resources within the Dunn community could be mobilized to support noble causes.

I also witnessed how scholarships transformed campus life. The “Right to Dream” scholarships brought extraordinary student-athletes from West Africa, elevating the school's spirit and energy. And then there was the unparalleled presence of Nyuol Tong ’10, whose story of survival from Sudan’s civil war reshaped our understanding of resilience and diversity. These experiences showed me how compassion and global perspective were woven into Dunn’s identity — and why it was essential to protect and sustain them for the future.

The Culture of Innovation

Another reason this vision thrived was the atmosphere of possibility at Dunn. What I felt at the time was nothing short of a revolutionary spirit on campus. Teachers and administrators were open to new ideas. Parents and alumni provided support, encouragement, and credibility. That combination created fertile ground where bold ideas could flourish.

The Power of Mentorship

Ultimately, the investment club provided our vision with both structure and momentum. We had remarkable mentors — Bill DuBois ’80, Guy Walker ’76, Tim Bliss (a Dunn parent), and Chad Stacy (Dunn’s CFO) — who shared their expertise and opened doors. They provided us with a roadmap for creating generational wealth, not just for the excitement of picking stocks but as a way to secure the school’s long-term future.

It was these three forces — the compassion of students, the culture of innovation, and the generosity of mentors — that came together to make it possible. Looking back now, I see not only what we achieved but also how enduring those efforts have been. That is the true legacy: people coming together with intention, vision, and heart to build something greater than themselves. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve started, and even prouder of how it’s endured. I’m excited to see how high the future classes will take this.

PROFIT PROPHETS THE

From its earliest days, The Investment Club and Entrepreneurial classes have placed investment decisions in students' hands. Using a responsible model of data-driven research, teamwork, and the insight that youthful consumers can bring to the table, students make well-informed investments with their mission in mind. The following student stock picks have earned an over 1,000% profit since their addition to the Earwig Foundation portfolio:

Eli Lilly. Scott Goodman ’12 selected this stock, although the company had its bumps in the road. Known at the time for its therapeutic medications that proved helpful in treating depression, diabetes, lung cancer, and other conditions, Eli Lilly has become a pharma powerhouse in recent years due to its GLP-1 medications, such as Mounjaro and Zepbound, positioning the company as a leader in metabolic and obesity treatment. Scott Goodman was part of the first group of students who invested real money. Later, other students also picked this stock to increase the school’s holdings: Jack Lee ’12, Annie Chen ’12, Celeste Palmer ’12, and Ryan Yau ’12. Scott Goodman remembers, “The Earwig Café sparked my entrepreneurial side, Mrs. Avery’s Econ class gave me the tools, and Mr. Stacy’s investment club with Jeff Wang launched my investment career. Those experiences laid the foundation for my journey — first graduating from the University of Oregon, then earning my MBA from the University of New Mexico. In my professional life, I’ve been fortunate to find success as president of a commercial real estate company, in the venture capital sector, where I’ve raised funds to invest in 24 startups, and, most recently, as founder of a private security company that now employs 30 people. Knowing this fund will eventually support future students is both powerful and humbling. I hope it inspires others to achieve their goals and reinvest in Dunn for the generations ahead.”

Nvidia. Gary Shang ’19 and Constantino Noval ’20 were early investors in Nvidia in 2018 and ’19, respectively. While these students were initially interested in Nvidia’s graphics cards for high-end gaming, the company has since become a major player in artificial intelligence.

Take Two Interactive. Student investor JT Neeley ’15 selected Take-Two Interactive, the publisher behind blockbuster games such as Grand Theft Auto, NBA 2K, and Civilization. JT Neeley recalls, “I picked those stocks due to my understanding and the longevity already apparent from Take Two Interactive. Games like Grand Theft Auto had been on a steady incline for multiple decades, and just a year after we made the purchase, they were going to release their most ambitious and expensive game at the time; GTA5 was a sure win in terms of a long-hold stock. Currently, they are building up to their newest game, GTA6, which should prove even more lucrative than the last. It's fantastic that a small piece of knowledge, from so many years ago, can still have such a profound impact on a school and its broader community. And I feel blessed to be able to contribute to the success of future students.”

Dunn Soccer’s TRIUMPHANT BEGINNINGS

Written by Mark

Geriak and several members of the first soccer teams during the

late 1950s and early 1960s

“That was over 60 years ago. Seems like yesterday.”

The story of Dunn School begins with soccer. The founder of our school, Tony Dunn, was also the school’s first soccer coach.

Before Tony Dunn set foot in the Santa Ynez Valley to build a school for boys, his life had already carried the weight of history. At Oxford University, where he earned his degree, he captained the rowing team. In World War II, he faced Rommel’s forces across the sands of North Africa, where in that battle, he rose to the rank of Major.

And when the war was over, Tony came west, carrying with him not just a vision for a new kind of school, but a devotion

to the game he loved most — football, as he knew it. On this rugged, parched stretch of California, he planted both dreams: a school and a soccer team.

His son, Michael, remembers one storm-lashed afternoon when the boys wondered if practice might be called off. Tony’s answer became legend: “Soccer was invented in the rain. I’ll see you on the field.”

From moments like this, soccer at Dunn was born — not simply as a sport, but as a tradition, forged in resilience, in loyalty, and in the spirit of a coach who believed the game was a way of life.

FOLLOWING COACH

The players’ memories of Dunn School Soccer capture moments of victory, grit, and humor that have stayed with them for over sixty years; one of the many commonalities they share is Coach and Headmaster Tony Dunn.

In fact, some say that the story of Dunn Soccer is also the story of Mr. Dunn. This trajectory was inevitable. Blending his roots as an Englishman, a rowing team captain at Oxford, and a member of the Allied forces, Mr. Dunn set his sights on soccer victories on the Central Coast, instilling in his players his passion for the beautiful game, teamwork, and rising above their perceived shortcomings.

He even joined the boys on the field when a player was absent. Once, he “stepped in at practice as left-winger, filling in for an injured Bill Allen ’64, only to leave the field with a broken arm.”

As a coach, Mr. Dunn was dedicated to “pass-pass-pass” and working the triangle. He was not a fan of players going rogue or pursuing individual glory — although the times they did became the stuff of legends, as you will read on the following pages.

HUMBLE BEGINNINGS

The players remember their first field, now the site of the basketball gym, and another just west in a farmer neighbor’s field. “Those dirt patches, sparse on grass but packed with rocks, left us battered and bloodied—but it only made us tougher.” There were times when they played on the "Old Lap Field" that the dust was so bad you couldn't see from one goal to the other. When a new field was created, just south of the "New Bomb Shelter," it was still dirt.

Even the school bus reflected the team’s early challenges: the players traveled in a bus that “should have been outlawed.” After a game south of Santa Barbara, the team bus broke down, and the players all had to get out and push!

With all of that, the team was growing, and lifelong friendships were being formed.

It began as a season. It became a legacy.

The ’61-’62 team holds a particularly special place in Dunn’s early history. At the time, the school had only just begun its transformation from a working farm into an academic community, and Tony Dunn was new on the scene. The players practiced and competed on a field described by Ralph Lowe in his History of Dunn School as “dusty, alfalfa-bearded, and rock-studded — a far cry from the manicured, sylvan playing fields of Cate and Thacher.”

Yet that rough, unpolished ground became their stage. Every kick, play, and game carried the energy of young men forging something extraordinary, giving them a “homefield advantage of extraordinary value” as they played with heart and fearlessness for their coach. In that dusty, uneven field, under the California sun, they found triumph not in privilege but in their own relentless drive — and in the joy of being a team.

The 1961-62 school year was only the second or third year of the soccer program. The year before, in its infancy, the Dunn boys were universally pummeled by their opponents. But things were about to change.

Cate and Thacher, with their fiftyand seventy-year head starts and far greater resources, were imposing rivals. On paper, they should have dominated. On the pitch, however, Dunn’s boys proved that grit, teamwork, and sheer determination could level any playing field. Victory wasn’t just about winning a game — it was a testament to spirit, courage, and the bonds they shared.

Under Tony Dunn’s leadership, the 1961-62 team went undefeated that year. Mr. Dunn himself gave it a name worthy of its spirit, Invictus — “undefeated, unbroken, unconquered” — borrowing from Henley’s immortal lines: “I am the master of my fate: I am the captain of my soul.”

Team captain Jerry Lambert ’62 reflected on that season:

“I do not doubt that the most common theme among all of the 1962 Invictus team members would be the overwhelming joy of beating those much larger schools with far more resources.”

Although he was only a boy during these early soccer years, Michael Dunn, Tony’s son, remembers, “My dad beamed as the scrappy Dunn boys toppled schools twice our size.”

STORIES OF

VICTORY

As an undefeated team, the stories of victories sometimes became the stuff of legends, such as the Pedotti long shot. Here’s another: the team played Midland as their first match, ending up with a 2-1 victory. All eleven starters piled into Tony Dunn's old army jeep for the trip back to school, hanging from the sides, top, and back, heaped on one another. (None of the boys ever leaked that story for fear that Coach Dunn would get in trouble with the Board and parents.)

Dunn continued to win, defeating teams like Cate and Thacher, who were used to dominating. Schools accustomed to playing on lush grass fields struggled to adapt to the dirt at Dunn. However, the disadvantage was mutual: for the final match of the season, “Cate had allowed their field to grow, aiming to slow us down. The transition from a dirt field to a heavy sod field was tough on the legs. The ride home on the old bus after the season's final victory was particularly grueling, and all the players were cramping up.” But it was worth it, explained Michael Bill, “It was quite a year playing teams whose second teams had been beating us the previous year, and they were now getting beaten by this tiny school with under fifty kids in the upper three grades.”

The origins of a trophy come from another classic tale remembered by Michael Dunn: When the team played at Midland, one of the teachers, Mr. Griffith, got so excited when we scored a goal that he repeatedly honked his horn with gusto to the point that he broke the steering wheel! And for years thereafter, the broken steering wheel, mounted on a wooden stand, became the trophy — The Dunn-Midland Cup — given to the winner of the rivalry each year.

This article about the origins of Dunn School soccer was possible because the team members, many of whom are approaching their 65th reunion in the upcoming years, generously shared their memories.

THAT HAVE LASTED A LIFETIME

All of our thanks to Michael Bill, John Cooper, Willis Allen, David Honeyman, Jerry Lambert, Jeffrey Shannon, Charles Fairbanks, and Michael Dunn. Our phone calls and emails were filled with charm, wit, and constant praise for each other. For example, Michael Bill wrote, “I will always remember the days of playing on five different athletic teams a year, and the friendships that were made. We, the 12 members of the 1962 Condor League Champion Soccer team, hoped that we had set the standard for excellence in camaraderie, friendship, and sportsmanship on the Dunn School athletic fields. The bond between my soccer teammates and me is still going on to this day.”

From these cherished roots, the Dunn Soccer program has continued to flourish. From CIF Championships to players continuing the beautiful game in college and even professionally, the spirit of the 1961-’62 team is alive and well.

THE LEGENDARY PLAYERS

The 1961–62 squad stormed through the season undefeated

Attacking Players:

Michael Bill ’63 shone as a center forward. John Cooper, the team’s goalie, shared, “Discussing the first years of Dunn soccer without talking about Mike Bill is like explaining the Chicago Bulls without mentioning Michael Jordan. Mike Bill WAS the team. Yes, he also had an allstar supporting cast. No hyperbole, prejudice, or question there; they were all great. I know — I watched every game from a virtual lawn chair sitting between the goal posts.”

Mr. Dunn’s strategy relied on passing, triangles, and teamwork, but Mike Bill’s skills occasionally took him on an alternate path toward the goal. “Mike could run an obstacle course around, over, and through people, also at high speed. But Mike was equally skilled at DE-celeration. The term "stop on a dime" was invented for him. When he had the ball, he was always a threat. We knew it, and so did everyone else in the league.”

Jerry Lambert ’62 I entered Valley Farm School in 1955, two years before Tony Dunn’s arrival, and had the privilege of witnessing the birth of Dunn School — and, a few years later, its proudest achievement: the undefeated Invictus season.

“I played soccer for Dunn for four years as a right forward. While I managed to sneak in a few goals here and there, most of the scoring glory rightly belonged to our prolific

striker, Michael Bill. Still, the goal that stands out most vividly for me was the one I scored against Midland. In a melee close to the Midland goal, I lost my shoe going up for a header. The ball missed my forehead but not my face. The goal stood, but I was out of the game with a very bloody nose.

“I participated in all the sports that I could at Dunn. The early sports facilities were crude at best, but it didn’t matter. We played hard, did our best, and were always encouraged by Mr. Dunn. I didn’t realize it then, but I do now; Tony was very proud of our accomplishments, stressing academics and athletics, but always in that order. It was an exciting and proud time, and it’s a remarkable story. Tony is still smiling.”

Charlie Fairbanks ’64

In John Cooper’s notes about the Invictus season, he described Charlie Fairbanks as “indispensable.”

John drew the comparison to the steady horse Aldebaran in the epic movie Ben-Hur. “Charlie was our Aldebaran,” he said. “Reliable, steady, and always there when you needed him. He could play a full game without rest — even when he was injured — and never seemed to lose his composure.”

John wrote that “Charlie had this quiet dependability about him, the kind of player who made everyone else better just by being on the field. He wasn’t flashy, but he had an unexpected burst of speed that caught opponents off guard. More than once, that quick acceleration allowed him to send perfect crosses

to Mike Bill and the other forwards — those passes that Mike remembered as ‘like shooting ducks in a pond.’”

John concluded that “From his spot on the right wing, Charlie could see the whole field. He played with intelligence and generosity — always thinking of what was best for the team. He listened to Coach Dunn, avoided wild shots, and never sought the spotlight. If he took a risk, it was only to open up a play or support a teammate. He was indefatigable. But it was never about him. It was always the team.”

Jon Pedotti ’63, in one crucial game, became a mighty object of Mr. Dunn's "affection." The game was midway through the second half, with the score 0-0.

John Cooper describes, “Pedotti was well short of midfield, just within the sidelines near Mr. Dunn. And for reasons unknown to time and space, Pedotti decided to take a full whack at the ball, from about 60 yards out, toward the goal. And again, this was right in front of Mr. Dunn, who had coached repeatedly against taking wild shots. Mr. Dunn predictably yelled, ‘PEDOTTI!’ with an amplitude and disdain that, if directed at most Dunn students, would have caused them a lifetime of permanent emotional damage. Suffice it to say, Mr. Dunn was not a happy camper. According to onlookers, everything thereafter happened in slow motion. The ball sailed, and sailed, and sailed. And went in! Mr. Dunn didn't say another word the rest of the game. Oh, we won, 1-0.”

The Goalie:

John Cooper ’64 (as remembered by Jerry Lambert ’61)

“One of the true cornerstones of our success was our towering, commanding goalie, John Cooper. During that unbeaten season, Jimmy Dean’s song “Big Bad John” was climbing the charts, and we made it our own. To honor our stalwart keeper, we would belt out the song together before a game, a mix of humor, pride, and team spirit.

He stood six foot six and weighed 245

Kinda broad at the shoulder and narrow at the hip

And everybody knew, ya didn't give no lip to Big John Big Bad John

Somebody said he came from New Orleans

On Defense:

The midfield and defense was a fortress, held firm by halfbacks Bill “Animal” Greenough ’63, Craig Hamilton ’62, and Dave Honeyman ’62. Dave — known to everyone as “Moose” — earned his name not for size, but for sheer, unyielding ferocity. “He left bodies strewn all over the field,” one teammate recalled. Alongside fullbacks Milliken and Blanchard, these men were Hadrian’s Wall incarnate — nothing and no one could breach them.

Where he got in a fight over a Cajun Queen

And a crashin' blow from a huge right hand

Sent a Louisiana fellow to the Promised Land, Big John Big Bad John

I remember us singing that song before our match at Thacher. They had just built a new field, carved straight out of the mountainside — a breathtaking setting for a game. That day, we stunned them, winning 4-0, yet another shutout for our keeper ‘Big Bad’ John Cooper.”

Two other players must be mentioned here: Willis Allen ’64 and Jeff Shannon ’61. While they weren’t starters on the Invictus squad, they were important, notable players who helped shape early Dunn soccer.

Jeff Shannon ’61 was a senior and the captain of the second soccer team, setting the tone for younger students who would eventually make their way to the varsity team. Jeff is still very close to many of his fellow soccer alums.

Willis Allen ’64, a sophomore during the Invictus year, was a premier left-winger who was also leftfooted. Goalie

John Cooper remembers, “Sometimes, rather than passing, he would streak down the sideline on his own. I can still hear Mr. Dunn screaming from the sidelines, ‘No! no! no!’ as Willis ran down the left, to ultimately make an impossible 90-degree turn, and kick at the last second, from the corner to the goal. It took a good part of the season for it to sink in to Mr. Dunn that those sideline runs by Willis, far more often than not, ended up with the ball sailing right in front of the goal, needing only a well-placed foot or head from an awaiting teammate to coax it in. So as that season was finishing up, the ‘No! no! no!’ became ‘Go! go! go!’ Mr. Dunn was all about passing and the triangle, but even he would admit there were exceptions to justify that solo run: when it was better.”

Craig Hamilton ’62

Dave Honeyman ’62

Ned Blanchard ’62

Ralph Milliken ’62

London Calling:

A DUNN SCHOOL SOCCER STORY OF GRATITUDE AND GROWTH

By Phil Coates ’83

In 1980, I walked onto the Dunn School campus excited to start a new chapter. Six months earlier, I had lost my mom to cancer. The daily routine of classes, formal dinners, and athletics was a tonic that nourished me greatly. For me, a key ingredient in the Earwig Experience was participation, allowing us to dream, enabling us to dare.

Kicking Off a Passion

Our outstanding soccer coach, Dan Chapman, helped me discover a new passion: goalkeeping. Coach Chapman had us up at 6:00 am running the local roads, and he demanded so much of us. Although our field in the shadow of the schoolhouse was shared with our furry friends and the many holes they’d created, we did very well with so many intense games against our Condor League opponents. I especially remember playing away games against Cate and Thacher and how their supporters would encircle the field, cheering and jeering at the top of their lungs. On our long bus rides home, passing the orchards, orange groves, purple mountains, and the charming old agricultural buildings, it felt like we were in a Norman Rockwell painting.

Goals Across the Pond

During my freshman year at Westmont College, I met someone who offered to help me get a trial

with their local club in England. So, in June of 1985, I headed off to London with a one-way ticket and $800 in my pocket. I found work as a waiter and tried out for the Walthamstow Football Club. By August, I had become the starting goalkeeper. Lofty aspirations led me to go watch the Tottenham Hotspurs team at practice, where I met a coach who listened to my story. Void of selfawareness, I asked if I could join them, and to my surprise, he agreed, offering to pick me up early the next morning. Two days turned into two weeks, which became eight months with Tottenham Hotspur. It was surreal!

Back Where it all Began

Maybe my journey to England was an act of destiny — Tottenham’s motto Audere est Facere (“To Dare is to Do”) echoes the spirit of Dunn’s Latin motto, Ne Tentes Aut Perfice: whatever you try, go all in, no matter the outcome.

As the season progressed, many players would skip training for various health or business reasons; this created opportunities for the other two or three keepers in attendance, such as myself, to mind the goal during shooting drills and scrimmaging. The team’s generosity was only cut short after I was accidentally head-butted in training in April ’86. I returned home to have my jaw wired and ended up at the University of San Francisco, where I played, graduated, and was happy and content.

As I reflect, Dunn School gave me the confidence to try and keep trying when it got tough. Emotional intelligence was not my strong suit when I graduated from Dunn. But now more than ever, I've come to respect and admire the people and places that prepared me. I would like to say thank you to my teachers, but also to the current Dunn faculty and staff who honor the spirit and tradition. Good people doing good work — this is noble, honorable, and praiseworthy.

DUNN SCHOOL’S SOCCER LEGACY

Continues with Top MLS Draft Pick

Last winter, Manu Duah ’24 was selected as the number one overall pick in Major League Soccer's (MLS) annual draft, marking another historic moment for the Dunn School. Manu became the second Dunn alumnus to receive this honor, following in the footsteps of fellow Ghanaian and Dunn graduate Abu Danladi ’14, who was chosen as the first overall pick in the 2017 MLS draft.

After recovering from early-season injuries and starting the year as a substitute, Manu made his first professional start for San Diego FC in July, and he immediately made an impact. He was named "Man of the Match" for his commanding performance, earned a spot on the league's Team of the Month, and has since become a fixture in the starting lineup. With his standout play and signature hairstyle, Manu has forged a charismatic connection with the San Diego supporters and has quickly become a fan favorite.

Thanks in part to Manu’s contributions, San Diego FC has

emerged as the top team in the Western Conference, and in their inaugural season, they are seeking a historic MLS championship. Recently, he was featured on the front page of the San Diego Union-Tribune sports section, calling him “Man-o-Manu.”

The Dunn community members are now more rabid soccer fans than ever before. Spearheaded by Dean of Students Kelsey Sullivan ’06, Dunn fans take road trips to San Diego to watch Manu play, where they’ve met up with other alumni, including Bill Allen ’64. A freshman who has never met Manu before sports his jersey, even on school picture day. Many games are broadcast live in the Cindy Bronfman Leadership Center, where cheers echo through Munger Common.

Since graduating from Dunn School in 2014, Abu Danladi went on to have a standout collegiate career at UCLA, where he contributed to their rise to the NCAA finals. As first draft pick, he made an immediate impact in his debut season playing professionally with Minnesota United, scoring eight goals and finishing second in the Rookie of the Year voting. Three years later, he was the number one draft pick in the expansion draft for Nashville FC. After several years of playing professionally in both North America and Europe, Abu has recently faced a series of injuries that have kept him off the pitch. Off the field, however, life has brought new joys: he and his wife recently welcomed their first child and are happily building a life together in Minnesota.

From the pioneering teams led by Coach Dunn, a legacy was born. Over the decades, Dunn soccer has risen again and again — claiming dozens of league championships and four CIF titles. This photo collage honors those unforgettable CIF championship seasons: 2006, 2015, 2017, and 2020.

SAILING PROGRAM

Mapping our Memories of the ’70s Dunn and our Beloved

Captain Sanger

It was a great pleasure to lead this program, and deeply rewarding to see students discover the joy of sailing — a passion my wife, Randi, and I have long shared.

- John Sanger

In the early 1970s, Dunn students embarked on a remarkable adventure and learning experience through the Dunn Sailing Program, led by John Sanger. Just a short drive from campus, the Santa Barbara Harbor became their gateway to a world that felt both familiar and boundless — the Pacific stretching wide before them, the Channel Islands rising offshore, full of promise and exploration. On the water, they learned to hoist sails and navigate open seas, to live together in tight quarters, to fish for their meals, and to trek the rugged island trails. More than just a program, it was an invitation to discovery, challenge, and wonder — a journey that opened new horizons both on the water and within themselves.

The following snippets capture the fond memories of the students who participated in the Dunn Sailing program:

From the Dunn Journals

“During our whole visit in the islands, we went ashore only two days, during which time we were anchored in Pelican Bay, Santa Cruz Island. The water in the bay was turquoise, and one side was bordered by a cliff that stood one hundred feet above our boat. Many plants hung over the cliff sides, the most common was a type of yellow flower that looked very much like a daisy, but grew on stalks. Our first day ashore, all except Mr. Ennis and Mark hiked toward one of the ridge-top peaks, around 1600 feet high. Once there, we could see the lush green meadows, wild flowers, and running streams that compose the island’s central valley. After our hike, we finished off the day with a cool shower under a sixteen-foot waterfall.”

Dunn Journal 1973 — Steve Manning

“On a sunny Friday afternoon, Bob McDougal, David King, Rie Algeo, Bennett McMicking, Jill Pettley, Tom Moore, and Bruce Lerner loaded a van with their various personal items and provisions and drove down to Santa Barbara Harbor to the two siling vessels, Caballo Blanco and Grebe, which were to be our homes for nine days whike visiting the Santa Barbara Channel Islands. We spent that night in the harbor to take advantage of our last showers for the duration of the trip.”

Dunn Journal 1974 — Bruce Lerner

Sharon (Bliss) Thomson ’79

Sailing with the Sangers was certainly a highlight of my years at Dunn. With my parents teaching at Dunn, I was blessed to have all of those experiences off the coast of Santa Barbara. They taught us to sail, but their true gift was creating a unique environment where we were students wide-open to the unfamiliar, bonding through new rituals and sharing many good belly laughs.

I will always cherish my memories of those wonderful trips. Raising sails and mischief as the mysterious “Sharon Shearwater” — a persona I will gladly carry to the end! — with sailing gal pals Jill, Rie, and Marney. The bird names were randomly assigned by our selection of napkin rings at a delicious dinner on the Grebe.

Jill (Pettley) Schafer ’77

So many fond memories of the awesome sailing trips with the fabulous John and Randi Sanger! They were truly wonderful hosts and captains — they taught us so much, and we had a BLAST. I still laugh when I think about some of the hijinks we got up to.

We learned so many lessons about life and sailing, of course. It was VERY tight quarters on both boats and not much privacy. Lots of cooperation was needed, and we all managed to survive. I know Rie and I drove everyone a bit nuts with all the giggling and singing we did!

On the first trip, John was a bachelor, and he had a friend along to help – Mr. Ennis, a fellow bachelor, I believe. I had journal entries about how bad the food was that trip – and Mr. Ennis drinking the oil from the tuna fish can!

Thankfully, by our second trip, John and Randi were married — and they had a newer, bigger boat. Randi fed us so well; I remember writing in my journal again and again about how delicious everything she made was. Those days were filled with the playful fun of good company, laughter, sunlight, and the sea.

To this day, John and Randi remain among our dearest friends. Their salt-of-the-earth warmth opened our world to sailing, to shared meals, and to the kind of companionship that only deepens with time.

Stevens Manning ’75

The Dunn Sailing program opened doors to adventure and new beginnings, leading to a fulfilling lifetime of rewarding experiences, as Dunn School was a launch pad.

One of the smaller but unforgettable moments from the Dunn Sailing trips is captured in the photo accompanying my reflection — Brigg Merrill, Philip Sykes, and me, finishing off a big can of tuna for lunch. It’s a simple scene, but it perfectly captures the camaraderie and joy of those days on the water. That winter of 1973, we were spending seven glorious days sailing around the Channel Islands on John Sanger’s sturdy Polish-built boat.

That day, we visited the "Painted Caves" on Eastside Santa Rosa Island in the afternoon, during the peak of a winter storm with 20-foot swells, making for a wet and wild ride. Fortunately, I was one of the few crew members who did not get seasick. As the storm hit and under the supervision of Captain Sanger, I took the helm while my classmates fed the fish of the Pacific some of the tuna we had dined on earlier that day.

Many years later, those sailing skills found a new purpose. Starting in the 1980s and continuing for years afterward, sailing became a meaningful and enduring part of my life, including many years of crewing in sailboat races in the San Francisco Bay Area. My experience taking the helm helped me step out and form Manning Mortgage Associates, Inc., a successful home loan brokerage from 2001 to 2014.

Most importantly, it was my sailing experiences at Dunn that set me on a course to see the world. In the early ’80s, I worked as Chief Deck Steward aboard the MS Royal Viking Line, traveling across oceans and ports I had only dreamed of. And, as fate would have it, I met my wife on a train from Paris to Mont St. Michel — a journey that changed my life in more ways than one.

Bruce Lerner ’74

I can confirm that was me on the far left - I was made the communications officer, so to speak, on the ’74 trip — that was likely a CB radio I was holding that we used to communicate between John Sanger's boat. Oddly, it was the first time I ever used a walkietalkie for anything remotely serious, something I now do fairly regularly. Jill and Rie occupied the back of

Mr. Sanger's boat, the Grebe IIRC, then there was the cockpit, and the main part of the boat — I slept on the galley floor, which was nice for my 6-foot frame. Mr. Sanger and another gentleman slept in the forward area.

Rie (Algeo) Gilsdorf ’77

I remember the mystery dramas, the corny songs, the chocolate chip cookies — and, of course, the everpresent obsession with dry shampoo.

Also, we all had “seabird handles” on the ’77 trip, stemming from the name of Sanger’s ship, Grebe. Sharon’s was just so movie-star appropriate that we kept it for a while. Mine was Cormorant, but when combined with my first name, it sounded like an adjective that might be an SAT word: recormorant. Maybe akin to recalcitrant. Anyway, not something I wanted to be called!

I sent the photo to my son, now a teacher who chaperones the occasional outdoor education trip. He said we looked like some cool kids. I confessed that we were pretty dorky and that the cool kids went backpacking.

As a final note about the 1983 Sailing Trip, I had apprehensively watched the satellite weather photos during the week before our departure. A strong cold front boomed out of the Gulf of Alaska and was on its way south past San Francisco when we left the dock in Santa Barbara and sailed across the Channel.

Rather than spend a rainy night in the Harbor, I decided to try to beat the approaching front to Santa Cruz Island, where we could shelter in its lee. About halfway across, we were hobby-horseing over three to six-foot swells. The horizon darkened, and Santa Cruz Island disappeared in the first rain squalls. All hands retreated below deck, except for my son, Don Macomber ’86, and our blind student, Dan Butterfield ’85.

As we approached Prisoner’s Harbor, Santa Cruz Island vanished entirely, and the rain was blown sideways by the 3035 mph wind. Drew Sparling ’83, who was used to battling hurricanes on his father’s fishing boat in the Gulf of Alaska, came on deck to man the anchor while I watched the fathometer. As the storm blew itself out, we took turns going up on deck to check on the anchor to see if it was dragging. Finally, the storm had passed, and we spent some days on the island.

Thanks

Throughout the process of sharing his memories, Mr. Sanger repeatedly emphasized that the Dunn Sailing Program was never the work of one individual. He was deeply committed to recognizing the many people whose efforts made the program possible. From colleagues to countless others who lent their time, expertise, and support, each played a vital role in shaping an experience that opened the ocean and the islands to generations of Dunn students. John Sanger expresses his thanks below:

Skippers Mike Pyzel of Caballo Blanco and Peter Crane of Possible Dream generously shared their boats, their deep knowledge of the beloved Channel Islands, and their enthusiasm for working with students—joining wholeheartedly in their adventures. My longtime friend George Ennis took charge of the galley, adding his own good humor and love of adventure to those early trips.

Dunn’s “Doc” Macomber, who occasionally joined us on the chartered sailing vessel, John Pettley, Dunn’s resident meteorologist, whose weather-predicting skills often directed our spring itineraries. Bill Webb, the headmaster, gave us unfettered latitude to carry out our adventures.

My wife, Randi — who, after our marriage in 1974, took charge of all galley duties and often led the crew topside when setting a course, reefing, anchoring, or trying a knot. And finally, each of the students, whose spirit and enthusiasm for living aboard together in a small space inspired us all and defined each trip’s success.

Expression of thanks, — John Sanger

ALUMNI WEEKEND

Welcome to the Alumni section of The Journal Within these pages unfold the vibrant stories and cherished memories that define our Dunn Alumni Community. We hope you will enjoy the long feature articles on the early Dunn soccer teams coached by the school’s founder, the adventures of the 1970s Dunn Sailing Program, and the Earwig Foundation Milestone, with in-depth reflections from its founders. Together, these stories weave a tapestry of the remarkable people who once called this campus home and left it forever changed.

Thank You

Thank you to these alumni for their successful efforts in pulling folks back for the reunions.

Last June’s Alumni Weekend overflowed with laughter, nostalgia, and pure joy. The campus came alive with stories, embraces, and the easy camaraderie of old friends reuniting. We were especially fortunate to welcome the Class of 1975 for their 50th reunion — a warm, gracious, and unmistakably classy group whose presence illuminated the celebration.

The Class of 2005 returned in full force, their laughter and energy lighting up both the campus and the dance floor. And at long last, the Class of 2020 finally enjoyed the senior prom they had missed during Covid — an evening filled with music, friendship, and the spirit of celebration. The weekend drew to a close with a heartfelt retirement tribute to Barbara and Willy Haig — an ending as moving and genuine as the community they helped shape.

Heartfelt thanks to Jim Geller ’75 and Guy Walker ’76 for their outreach to Dunn alumni from the mid-1970s, which helped bring so many familiar faces back to campus.

Cianna Walker ’05 played the leading role in organizing one of the largest single-class gatherings in the history of Dunn reunions. Her enthusiasm for the event was evident as far back as the fall. She used multiple social media platforms to reconnect with alumni the school hadn’t heard from in years. Thanks to the relationships she maintained and the friendships she helped rekindle, there was an incredible surge of energy and excitement that led to a remarkable turnout from the Class of 2005. Keep reading to see Cianna’s reflections on the weekend.

A MEMBER OF THE CLASS OF 1975 PECIAL REUNION

A member of the Class of 1975, Michael Wong Sathaphone, returned to Dunn for his 50th reunion — his first time back since graduation. Half a century had passed, yet as he stepped onto campus, he paused, taking in the scene before him. The parched, sunbaked school landscape of his memory had given way to sweeping green lawns and the gentle shade of Valley Oaks that had quietly grown in the years since he’s been away.

As he walked with his classmates, he would pause, place a hand on a classmate’s shoulder, and murmur in quiet awe, “This is incredible.” Much of his time was spent alongside Brig Merrell ’75, and as they strolled the familiar paths. Brig noted about their time together and their old school that, “We grew up here.” Michael’s return to campus brought a poignant resonance to many conversations, making his presence one of the most emotionally stirring highlights of the weekend.

Standing once more on the grounds where so many formative moments had unfolded, Michael reflected on the profound meaning of returning — not just to witness how Dunn had grown, but to feel the enduring spirit of the place that shaped him.

In Michael’s Own Words

Finding a Home in America Dunn was my first home in America. I was so young. I came from Laos, and far from everything I knew. But at Dunn, I found a home that was filled with friends and so many talented teachers. I grew up on that campus. The school, the friends, the teachers — they meant everything.

From Strangers to Brothers

Coming to America was difficult at first. I remember during mail call, there were rarely any letters for me. It was hard. I’d quietly leave the school assembly and find a place to cry — I felt so alone.

But in time, everything changed. I made lasting friendships with Juan Piña, Jesse Aceves, and Guy Walker. These men became like brothers to me. I still remember Juan’s beautiful singing voice, and I’ll never forget the warmth of staying at Guy Walker’s home. His mother was always so kind. On Sundays, we’d all go to church together — I had never heard people sing so loudly and joyfully in a church before. Even in their kitchen, there was music and dancing. I can still feel the joy of those moments.

What Dunn Means to Me Today

More recently, I had dinner with Jesse, and we both marveled at how well our lives have turned out. I’ve come to truly appreciate what a meaningful and transformative experience my time at Dunn has been for me. I have carried those years with me always. After fifty years, I’ve returned. The school has changed and grown. I see what the students have now, and it fills me with quiet happiness. They are lucky. And so was I.

FIRST GLIMPSES, FIRST HUGS,

A FULL HOUSE AT ESFUERZO WINERY

Hosted by Fidi Flores ’10

A heartfelt thank-you to Fidi Flores ’10 for generously hosting us at Esfuerzo Winery in the Santa Ynez Valley, treating Dunn alumni to a wine tasting and taco truck — all free of charge. The event was such a success that Fidi has committed to hosting again next year!

If you’re ever in Santa Barbara County (or shopping online), please show your support: www.floresfamilyvineyards.com.

REUNITED AND IT FEELS SO GOOD

Cianna Walker's Success in Bringing her Class Back Together

The Alumni Reunion Weekend brought together graduates from across the decades, but for the Class of 2005, the weekend was especially meaningful thanks to the incredible organizing efforts of alumna Cianna Walker ’05. Cianna was instrumental in tracking down and reconnecting with her classmates, ensuring a strong turnout and a weekend of shared memories and renewed bonds. The Class of 2005 may now hold the record for the largest gathering of any reunion group in Alumni history.

We sat down with Cianna to talk about the experience of bringing her cohort back to Dunn after 20 years.

The Joy of Reconnecting

Cianna’s efforts began well before the reunion date, utilizing modern tools to bridge the gap of two decades. "I had a great time tracking down former classmates via Instagram, Facebook and even did some deep research on Google to find a few folks!" she shared. The response she received was overwhelmingly positive. "Having not connected with some people in 20 years, I wasn't sure how my outreach would be received but was pleasantly surprised when everyone I contacted was happy to hear from me and excited to learn more about the reunion!"

A Shared Experience of Healing and Home

When asked about reconnecting with classmates now — with careers, families, and new experiences under their belts — Cianna noted a powerful common thread. "What stood out to me the most was that regardless of the experiences people had at Dunn during their time there, most folks were interested in coming back to

reconnect with old classmates, spend time on campus, and either relive a time that they cherished or do some healing at a place that was impactful in their journey."

The reunion provided a unique opportunity to move beyond the dynamics of their teenage years.

"It honestly felt like we had just wrapped up graduation under the oak tree," Cianna reflected. "I really could not believe that 20 years had gone by and that so many of us hadn't seen each other in that same amount of time. It was great to see all of us solidly grounded in who we are and to be able to connect beyond the social awkwardness and drama of being teens."

She noted that for some, returning wasn't easy. "Some folks were really nervous to come back because of challenges they had during their time at Dunn or difficult relationships they left behind. But once we all started reconnecting, I had multiple people come up to me and say how welcome and connected to everyone they felt. It was beautiful to see so much joy come to light for so many of us."

Back on the Dunn Campus

For Cianna, who now lives in Georgia, the Dunn campus holds a deeply personal history. "Being back on campus is always an interesting experience for me because Dunn has been such a significant part of my life since before I was born (shout out to my dad, Guy R. Walker, Class of ’76)," she explained. "I am so grateful for the incredible life experiences I've had at Dunn, even the challenging ones."

Her recent visit felt like a culmination of that history. "Coming back to campus this time felt like home and like an opportunity for me to create a space of healing and community for others who have had those moments where they felt like they didn't belong."

Looking ahead, Cianna is already planning her next return. "I'm excited to come back next year to celebrate the 20-year reunion of the Class of ’06 and the 50-year reunion of the Class of ’76!"

Cianna Walker ’05's dedication to her class exemplifies the enduring spirit of the Dunn alumni community. We thank her for her efforts and look forward to celebrating with her and her father next year!

Saturday Night

ALUMNI CELEBRATION

The Saturday evening event is the centerpiece of every Alumni Weekend. With the highest attendance, the dinner brings the largest group of alumni and current/former faculty together. A delicious catered dinner paired with local wines, the Dunn community can catch up, hear an address from the Head of School, honor the Alum and Young Alum of the Year (read more about the recipients in a few pages), and dance the night away.

Five Years in the Making

A PROM REDO FOR THE CLASS OF 2020

The Class of 2020 saw their senior year cut short by the COVID-19 pandemic, missing cherished milestones like prom and graduation. To honor their resilience and give them a taste of what they lost, Alumni Weekend featured a long-awaited Prom Redo.

The idea was sparked by Jackson Grunzweig ’20, and Macey Turbow ’20 rallied the Class of 2020 to return for their five-year reunion and finally celebrate the prom they were denied. It was a true delight to see so many young alumni back on campus, reconnecting and celebrating together. Their time in the Santa Ynez Valley began with a lively BBQ at Macey’s house and continued after the Prom Redo with a spirited visit to the local country bar, the Maverick.

Amid the hundreds of photos from Alumni Weekend, this one keeps pulling me back.

Director of Alumni Relations Mark Geriak

There’s something compelling and emblematic about this photo — the laughter, the joy, and the journeys that converge within a single frame. They arrived from far and wide: one from central Texas, another from France, one just down a country road from Dunn’s campus, and another who traveled from West Africa and is now the Knoles Dorm head at Dunn.

REFLECTS ON A FAVORITE PHOTO FROM ALUMNI WEEKEND

LET ME TELL YOU ABOUT THESE FOLKS.

I first met Gina Galvin ’16 a decade ago when she was part of my wife’s advisee group. Even back then, she stood out — incredibly bright, personable, and full of promise. And now, seeing the adult version of her is truly something special.

If you chance to spend some time with her, she remains effortlessly intelligent and radiates a genuine warmth. Over a year ago, we had a long conversation as she updated me on her life since high school, and I was genuinely gobsmacked by how thoughtful and meaningful that exchange was.

She continues to give back to Dunn in the most meaningful ways — sharing her time, insight, and boundless energy to mentor and inspire Dunn students through the Jurgensen Entrepreneurial Program. As Kal Balaven said in his remarks honoring her as Young Alumni of the Year, she is truly “a giving soul.”

made playing alongside him a thrill for his teammates — he worked tirelessly to set them up for success. And with Sahid on the field, his teams won a lot of games, including a CIF championship.

For current students and faculty, Sahid holds a great deal of significance for many across campus. In the Health Office, he’s a trusted and steady presence — the kind of person who’ll care for you on your toughest day, tend to your ailment, and then swing by your room later to check on how you’re doing. On the soccer field, he’s not just a coach but a teacher, helping you grow as both a player and a person. And in Knoles Dorm, he’s the one sharing a laugh with you in the lounge — or reminding you it’s time to clean your room.

What strikes me about this photo of Elisabeth is the playful joy it captures — a joy that carries the arc of her story. Born in the south of France, where her parents ran a bakery, Elisabeth’s American journey has seen both triumphs and challenges. Yet here, she radiates pride and delight, swept up in the world she and her daughter, Gina, have built together through Stellar Snacks, now a major force in the pretzel business.

On the day Gina received her award at Alumni Weekend, mother and daughter strolled a few blocks from their home near Dunn under a bright spring sky. Side by side, laughing easily, they moved with the ease of shared history and hard-won achievement. Watching them together was a quiet, beautiful moment — a memory that lingered long after the celebrations ended.

Also in the photo is Russell Ledbetter from the Class of 1982, whose passion for Dunn seems to glow from within. What stands out most about Russell is his personal thoughtfulness. Whenever he comes to campus from Texas, he makes a point to visit a beloved Dunn teacher of his, Hank Stanton, a teacher who shaped his life decades ago. Russell takes Mr. Stanton out to lunch, checks in, and makes sure that he has what he needs. Small, consistent gestures that carry enormous meaning.

Beyond these personal connections, Russell leaves a mark through his generosity. He writes handwritten notes, sends emoji-filled texts, and supports Dunn in profound ways, from scholarships for students facing hardship around the world to funding classroom teachers. Every interaction, every act of giving, reflects the same warmth and care that make him unforgettable to those lucky enough to know him.

Like Gina, Sahid is also a proud member of the Class of 2016. I remember his early days at Dunn — he was so quiet, taking it all in as he adjusted to life in Los Olivos after his move from West Africa. It was a big transition, and he navigated it with quiet strength. Where Sahid truly came alive was on the soccer field. His elite skills

Beyond these four remarkable individuals, this photo reminds me why Dunn School is such a profound place for those of us who have been privileged to live, work, or attend here: it is a place of belonging, where individuals from all walks of life and all areas of the globe come together to know others and be known themselves. As a staff member, I get to witness this firsthand every day, but it especially hits home for me every Alumni Weekend. The feeling of belonging captured in this photograph is the enduring spirit of Dunn School, and it continues to welcome us all back home.

A Safe Space, A Defining Time: RUSSELL LEDBETTER REMEMBERS THE DUNN COMMUNITY THAT SHAPED HIS LIFE

Russell Ledbetter, a member of the class of 1982 and our Dunn Alumnus of 2025 (as voted by the Dunn Alumni Committee), has been a devoted supporter and friend of Dunn School since his freshman year in the late 1970s, when he lived behind what was then Thacher Dorm (now the Sinclair Art Studio). His senior and junior mentors, Steve Congelos ’79) and Pedro Williams ’80, served in roles similar to today’s prefects.

Though Doc Macomber was his official faculty advisor upon his arrival from Texas in the Fall of 1978, Russell fondly remembers seeking guidance from many Dunn faculty. Among them, Tom “Hank” Stanton, his JV soccer coach and Freshman English teacher, has continued to provide encouragement and words of advice that have carried on through the years, whether over the phone or at occasional inperson get-togethers. At the 2017 Class of ’67 50th reunion, Russell recalls Wylie Drummond stating, “Dunn salvaged my education,” a sentiment Russell wholeheartedly shares. During his time at Dunn, Russell excelled academically, earning honor roll recognition throughout his years here.

He also recalls a phone call several years ago with Joe Flamer ’79, who described Dunn as his “safe space” during his parents’ divorce — a feeling Russell deeply relates to. Russell credits faculty members George Weston, Pete Knowles,

Bob LeRoy, Hank Stanton, and Cam Ferranté for their mentorship during his freshman and sophomore years at Dunn, which he says he continues to appreciate and that profoundly shaped his growth throughout his adult life. Since then, his journey has been remarkable: reporting news nationwide for various publications; studying acting and the arts in New York; hiking the Appalachian Trail in 2015; and competing as a ballroom dancer both in New York and, more recently, in Houston.

He works in the oil and gas industry today, and since the pandemic, has pursued a long-held dream of earning a Master’s in Journalism from the University of Missouri-Columbia, studying online from Texas. When asked how he wished to be honored as the 2025 Alumnus of the Year, Russell requested a tribute to the vibrant boarding school experience and heartfelt thanks to the many teachers and staff who guided him during his time as an Earwig Echoing Wylie Drummond’s words from 2017, he captures the profound impact Dunn had on his life. The following are cherished memories and stories that reveal the warmth and spirit of those years.

Early Days at Dunn

Russell’s arrival at Dunn in Fall 1978 began with a humorous mishap. Less than a week in, during a pool game he calls “kill the man,” he accidentally threw a deflated inner tube at Headmaster Ed Simmons, mistaking him for fellow freshman Brian Hill, surfacing from the water. The tube struck Simmons squarely in the face — an unforgettable first encounter! Despite the rocky start, Russell’s fears eased when, weeks later, Headmaster Simmons announced at assembly that the school would be going to Santa Barbara that evening to see the John Belushi movie, Animal House — a moment that still brings a smile to Russell’s face, and assured him at that time he would thrive at Dunn.

The Care and Kindness of Mr. Weston

During his first three weeks, all first-year students were required to attend study hall in the dining hall. One evening, Russell was sternly summoned via a handwritten note to report to faculty member George Weston (then the Dunn communications and study skills teacher) to address a behavioral concern. Instead of punishment, Russell found a relaxed gathering of other students and Mr. Weston making quesadillas, watching Monday Night Football, and laughing and joking around while working on the school yearbook.

Later that school year, after Russell casually mentioned wanting to see the Broadway show Annie (he had harbored a crush on the young actress, Andrea McCardle, who played ‘Lil Orphan Annie), Mr. Weston organized a trip to Los Angeles for students, parents, and faculty to attend a touring performance of the hit Broadway show at the Pantages Theater. This surreal experience — traveling from a remote boarding school to a bustling theater — left a lasting impression on Russell.

Months later, when Russell’s mother faced breast cancer treatment back in Texas, Mr. Weston took him on a soothing drive through the hills of Santa Ynez, sharing personal stories about his own mother’s battle with breast cancer and offering support. For Russell, Mr. Weston became a vital source of strength and kindness during a difficult time, a kindness he has never forgotten.

Cam Ferranté and Sophomore Year at Dunn

Russell’s sophomore year brought new and more difficult challenges: his roommate and friend Donald Thomas left school only weeks into the semester due to homesickness. Donald's leaving was a painful loss for Russell, he recalls, already struggling with family abandonment issues himself (they had each served as freshman class representatives together on the Student Council the previous year). Yet the year was rich with growth: he read The Great Gatsby and Huckleberry Finn in Cam Ferranté’s English class, played another year on Hank Stanton’s JV soccer team, led the Dunn delegation to Model U.N. as a sophomore, earned a Varsity letter playing on Bob LeRoy’s Varsity baseball team, and earned a NAUI scuba certification under Cam Ferrante’s guidance. The scuba training culminated in a week-long dive trip to Grand Cayman Island, an extraordinary adventure. Russell and other Dunn students, led by Cam, undertook night dives, explored the Wreck of the Balboa in Georgetown Harbor, and experienced reef dives near the Bay of Pigs Wreck throughout their week in the British Commonwealth. In the evenings, National Geographic underwater photographer Gerry Hytha narrated his underwater slide shows after years of exploring under the sea, and as the new owner of The Cayman Diving Lodge.

Later that Spring of ’80, Russell and Cam Ferrante recalled their deep dive to 110 feet along a coral wall dropping over 6,000 feet: “Being weightless in water with visibility of 100 feet or more gives the sensation of floating or flying. One can float through caves or scale vertical walls with a simple kick of the fins. The feeling of floating was so strong, we felt as if we could fall off the cliff

into the depths,” Cam wrote with Russell for their article summarizing their trip later for The Dunn Journal.

Renaming The Dunn Mascot

In his final months at Dunn, Russell witnessed a notable, if not humorous, moment in school history: The Dunn Student Body, led by the then Student Body President Bill DuBois ’80, voted to replace the Earwig mascot with the name “Dragons.” However, as the Dean of Students and faculty member Pete Robbins would later report, the Dunn Board of Trustees quickly nixed that idea and overturned the students’ vote weeks later, preserving the beloved Earwig mascot cherished by Dunn Alumni today. “I’m so glad we didn’t change it,” remembered Bill Olds, Dunn Student Body Vice President in 1980, during a 2019 phone interview with Russell. “It’s certainly unique if not one of the more iconic school mascots.”

Whether it was playing trumpet in Rose Knowles’ jazz band, learning to develop black and white film and photos in the old bomb shelterturned-photo lab at that time, while working as a photographer for the yearbook, or writing for the school journal, Russell remembers his days at Dunn as a truly dynamic time unequaled at the public school his father later had Russell attend during his remaining high school years in Texas. “My time at Dunn was transformative and pivotal and ever-defining and most certainly life-changing in just a myriad of ways,” Russell said. “I will never forget my time there and am forever grateful. Dunn truly saved my life, and I’m so glad to get to be involved with Dunn as an alumnus again.”

Russell Ledbetter’s story is a testament to the transformative power of Dunn School’s community, mentorship, and spirit — a legacy that continues to inspire. His memories capture the spirit of a formative time filled with challenges, triumphs, and the unwavering care of a dedicated community. Now a committed Dunn alum, and through his continuing allegiance and support in a multitude of ways, we choose Russell Ledbetter as our Alumnus of the Year for 2025.

Stellar Young Alumni of the Year: GINA GALVIN

Gina Galvin, Class of 2016, has been awarded this year's Young Alumni Award, recognizing her as someone whose story embodies the best of Dunn's spirit. The honor celebrates not only her remarkable entrepreneurial success but also her commitment to giving back to her alma mater.

From her time at Dunn, Gina is remembered as a bright light on campus, inseparable from friends Kalena and Allie Chomeau, and always radiating positivity and engagement. As a beloved member of Amy Geriak's advisory, she was known for being cheerful, curious, and kind — qualities that would later define her approach to business leadership.

Building an Empire, One Pretzel at a Time

Today, Gina has emerged as a trailblazing entrepreneur. As co-founder and Chief Creative Officer of Stellar Snacks, she has revolutionized the pretzel industry alongside her mother and business partner, Elizabeth. Together, they have built the first woman-owned pretzel manufacturing company in the United States, creating vegan, kosher, and non-GMO snacks that have gained national recognition.

The company's success is evident in its impressive reach: Stellar Snacks products are now served on Alaska and Southwest Airlines flights and are available on shelves across the country. But Gina's vision extends far beyond traditional business metrics.

Innovation Beyond the Product

described as the largest economic development project in that region in two decades. This achievement has earned her recognition from prestigious publications, including placement on Forbes' 30 Under 30 list and Inc. Magazine's Female Founders 500.

Through her Artist Universe initiative, Gina has transformed product packaging from mere marketing material into a platform for social good. Where others see space for barcodes, she sees an opportunity to provide visibility and voice to emerging artists, turning each package into a canvas for creative expression.

Her impact on the broader community has been equally significant. Gina's business ventures have created over 350 jobs in Kentucky through what has been

Giving Back to Her Roots

In Los Olivos, perhaps what sets Gina apart most is her commitment to returning to Dunn School. Over the past two years, she has made multiple visits — not merely as a successful alumna stopping by, but as an engaged educator and mentor. She has worked directly with entrepreneurial students, sharing her journey and encouraging them to imagine their own paths to success.

Her approach to mentoring goes beyond storytelling. She brings hands-on materials for practical challenges, such as offering students 40 different seasonings and asking students to create their own pretzel flavor — and offers candid insights about the realities of leadership in a business world that, as she notes, "too often favors scale over soul."

Reflecting on her connection to the school, she has shared that visiting Dunn holds deep meaning for her. "I get to reconnect with the faculty who helped me grow my roots — not just as a business leader, but as a lifelong learner guided by compassion and empathy," she explained.

A Model of PurposeDriven Leadership

Gina's story represents more than entrepreneurial success; it exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose, infuse creativity into commerce, and build something that is both successful and meaningful. Her ability to balance business growth with social impact, while maintaining strong ties to her educational foundation, makes her a shining example for future generations of Dunn graduates.

The Young Alumni Award recognizes not only where Gina has been, but the path she continues to forge — one that demonstrates how success can be measured not just in profits and recognition, but in the positive impact one creates for others along the way.

Former and Current Faculty, Alumni, Gather to Celebrate

THE HAIGS

The final, rousing celebration on the Sunday of Alumni Weekend was a grand send-off for Barbara and Willy Haig after their 36 years on the Dunn Campus, serving as a glorious reunion for many former faculty members who traveled great distances just to attend.

The program launched with the surprise appearance of a bagpiper, paying tribute to the Haigs’ Scottish heritage. Following an opening tribute by Head of School Kal Balaven, the stage opened for anyone

who wanted to speak to the Haigs’ impact, tell funny stories, and share their thanks. Laughter and tears ensued as participants spoke of Willy’s antics in the classroom and his famous humor, while praising Barbara’s creativity, thoughtfulness, friendship, and leadership.

But there was still a final surprise before the event was over: knowing that the Haigs plan to spend their retirement traveling and exploring, a brand new truck in Dunn School red rolled up near the podium, gifted by generous alumni grateful for the lasting impact the Haigs had made on their lives.

A Family Affair: BARBARA AND WILLY HAIG RETIRE AFTER 36 YEARS

After 36 years of dedication, Barbara and Willy Haig, two beloved pillars of the Dunn School community, have retired. Their journey began in 1989 with a leap of faith that shaped not only their lives but generations of Dunn students.

Willy, a native of the Shetland Islands, first fell in love with California during a Fulbright exchange. Returning home proved difficult, and after sending his resume to California schools, he got the call from Headmaster Steve Loy in June 1989. Willy accepted the teaching position sight-unseen. Barbara visited campus to interview on behalf of the family, inspecting their future home — a house at the end of the track, literally cut in half for transportation and covered in dust. Undeterred, they moved in that August and have lived in that same home ever since.

Teachers and Department Leaders

Willy began teaching immediately, and the following year, an unexpected departure opened a part-time science teaching spot for Barbara. With only a week's notice, she accepted. Barbara quickly took over as Head of the Science Department around 1994, succeeding Doc Macomber, while Willy became Head of the Math Department. When Head of School Mike Beck created the unified STEM Department, Barbara was the natural choice to lead it.

Even with growing administrative duties, Barbara continued to teach two to four science classes. “Bio is my sweet spot,” she says, always identifying herself first and foremost as a Biology teacher. Willy was the go-to for advanced students, teaching all the

honors classes, including AP Calculus. For Barbara, one of the greatest joys was connecting with passionate students. “There were some real special kids,” she says. “When you hear what they’ve gone on to do, if they are doing science or medicine, it’s so fabulous.” This joy was personal in 2004, when, after breaking her collar bone, she ran into Ben Ockert ’97 — an exchange student from Germany — doing an orthopedic medical internship.

He told her that his year in her science class inspired him to go into medicine.

Shaping Student Leadership

In 2012, Barbara took on a major administrative role, becoming the Director of Leadership — a transition Susie Childs wholeheartedly endorsed, calling Barbara "the only person at the school qualified to take over." Barbara's roles grew to Dean of Leadership, then Assistant Head of School for Leadership, instrumental in shaping every aspect of student leadership, including the Outdoor Education program.

Barbara’s lasting legacy also includes launching Dunn's involvement with Round Square, a global association of schools. Encouraged by Head of School Kal Balaven, she spearheaded the application process, and Dunn was accepted right away. After their first conference in Kenya, the exchange program was soon off and running. “Then we never looked back,” she says. The program quickly grew and is now in the capable hands of Director of Belonging Taylor Abernethy.

Community and Connection

A central part of the Haigs' commitment revolved around soccer. Both Barbara and Willy coached, and alongside their dear friend Susie Childs, they were deeply involved with AYSO Soccer. They were instrumental in bringing the youth league's games to the Dunn campus fields.

The Haigs embraced the school's communal spirit, whether it was joining Formal Dinner or taking part in the Lip Sync and Talent Show, where they were the act everyone looked forward to, with standout performances of “I’ve Got You Babe,” “500 Miles,” and more. “We did it because we saw Doc Macomber and Pete Knowles doing it when we first arrived,” Barbara says.

You are part of a community and you want to enjoy and be part of it with all the kids.

One of their final performances was in the school production of Mamma Mia, directed by their daughter Jillian, when they took on the roles of Bill and Rosie, singing the classic “Take a Chance on Me.”

The Haigs' children, Jillian and Richard, grew up on the campus and graduated from Dunn as prefects and scholars. Many readers know that Jillian returned as an educator and is now the Director of Dunn Middle School. Incidentally, Jillian and her family now live in the family’s original home, now christened “Haig House.”

In a moving speech at their retirement celebration, Jillian shared:

Mum and Dad, thank you. Thank you for choosing Dunn as our home when I was just one. I’m sure you had no idea of the legacy that you would create on campus... I’m pretty much in denial about you retiring and moving away. The only thing that is giving me solace is that Daniel, Ridley, and I get to move into your home... As you are departing from Dunn, hopefully it brings you joy that I have my dream job and my dream home. And that it’s all because of you.

Barbara and Willy Haig’s 36-year commitment to Dunn has left an enduring mark. They will be deeply missed, and the entire Dunn community wishes them a joyful and well-deserved retirement.

If you would like to get in touch with Barbara and Willy Haig, you are welcome to reach out via email at: bandwhaig@gmail.com.

The Haigs EMEMBER R

There are times, still, when I am concentrating on something very important or trying to be creative in solving a problem that I hear Barbara’s voice, nudging me on, pushing me to try new things and take risks. Very few teachers leave this kind of indelible mark, and it is a testament to the power of her skill and character. Science was the tool she used to teach us how to think about the world, and in her lab, which was my home in high school, I had a safe place to grow intellectually and as a person. She treated all her students with equanimity and shared her gift of teaching equally. I feel singularly thankful to have had the opportunity to learn from her. What an amazing teacher!

~ Dr. Justin Schrager, MD, RPM, Class of 2000 and Mrs. Haig’s Advisee

It’s a great honor to write about the Haigs. Being mathematically and scientifically minded, I was always excited to attend their classes. They truly helped shape my career and the values I hold today. From learning about the “origin man” in calculus to building a Western blot in Mrs. Haig’s class, they showed me that learning never ends and how to truly enjoy it. I wish them all the best; they will always remain an important part of my educational journey.

~ Michael Tseng, MD, ’11, Gastroenterology Fellow

I’ve always been drawn to the sciences and medicine; my years volunteering on health initiatives in Bolivia and my fascination with shows like Trauma: Life in the ER are proof of that. But it wasn’t until my junior year, when I took upper-level and AP Biology with Barbara, that my interest in medicine truly took shape.

Barbara had a rare ability to connect us to the material, not just to prepare us for a test, but to make us ask why it mattered and how it connected to the world around us. I still remember our senior year, Barbara got all the girls in our AP Bio class into a frenzy to celebrate Charles Darwin’s 200th birthday. We made T-shirts and even threw a party for the father of evolutionary biology. I remember feeling the power of being part of a community of women in science, united by curiosity, collaboration, and drive.

From there, the path felt natural. I went on to study biological anthropology and eventually pursued a master’s degree in global health. I worked on an ambulance, then in a Level 1 inner-city trauma center, and have spent the last 5 years as a cardiac researcher running clinical trials. My excitement for the scientific world, and my confidence in pursuing it, blossomed under Barbara’s guidance, and I am so grateful for the impact she had on both my career and sense of purpose.

~Alexandria

Dunn, ’09, Clinical Development

Scientist

I’ll always remember Mr. Haig's math class not just for the formulas, but for the laughter. He had this amazing way of making even the hardest concepts feel simple — and fun! His sense of humor and creative explanations made math something I actually looked forward to, which I never thought I’d say.

Mrs. Haig's class was one of the most memorable parts of my high school years. I can still picture her excitement when talking about cells and the 'circle of life' — it was impossible not to get caught up in her enthusiasm! She made Biology feel alive and meaningful, and that inspiration stayed with me long after graduation. Her passion for teaching and science played a big part in guiding me toward the medical field. I’m so grateful for the impact she had on my path and for the way she made learning such a joyful experience.

~ Juanxiao Rebecca Qiu, ’12, Clinical Dietitian

“BLOODY HELL! HEY, WATCH YOUR MOUTH!”

I was lucky enough to be in Willy Haig’s Integrated Math IV class during his last year of teaching. It was special, because he had known me my whole life. I grew up on the Dunn campus around so many teachers, but I had always heard the legendary stories about him in the classroom, and when it was my turn, I was not disappointed. He explained math in a way that no one else had before or has since. His class and methods were nontraditional in the best way. When he saw that we were getting confused by the variables x and y, he changed them into a heart and a spade instead. As someone who struggled in math classes for years, this was the one time I felt like I was being taught well — in a way that I could learn. I didn’t think it was possible to have fun in math, but he made it that way. One joke of his that I always think about is that when anyone would yawn, he’d pretend that their mouth was open so wide because they were amazed at what he was teaching. He never shamed anyone for guessing the wrong answers or being bored; rather, he would joke about it and make it funny.

~ Claire Geriak,

’21, college senior

“Hey, Mr Haig, I think class is over. It’s 2:30.” “Aye, that means it’s dentist time.”

“Generally speaking.” “General Lee? Who’s that?”

These are just some of the many, what I now realize were dad jokes, that Willy had, and you know what? I may have been the only one who truly loved them.

Willy is such an amazing person, teacher, and soccer coach. He always kept learning fun and light. Man, I remember the first time I saw that twinkle in his eye and the giddiness in his soul for teaching and the love of math. We were learning about tangents and parabolas, and he showed us how to come up with the answer using the TI-82. But you should’ve seen him. You would’ve thought he personally had put a man on the moon. But what’s even crazier is that I don’t think I was ever really good at math growing up with dyslexia. Still, for some strange reason, I was put in those advanced math classes, and these teachers really believed in me and were able to teach in such a way that it wasn’t really that bad, and I even ended up enjoying it (what a nerd).

Anyway, I think about Willy all the time. I think about Dunn all the time. It had a monumental impact on who I am today, and I will never take it for granted. I will continue to carpe diem. One last thing, I just realized why Willy wanted to teach us about tangents and parabolas: it all has to do with golf! Bloody Scot!

~ Paul Moreno, RN, ’00

STEADFAST STEWARDS: MARIA, RAMIRO, & LUPITA

Retire After Decades of

Service

In the past year, the Dunn community has said goodbye to three longserving staff members whose combined tenure totals an extraordinary 85 years: Maria Garcia, Ramiro Garcia, and Lupita Robles.

Maria Garcia served on our facilities team for thirty years, and her presence in the dorms — especially the girls’ dorm — became a source of comfort for generations of students. Many Loy residents felt a motherly bond with her. She treasured watching students’ lives unfold alongside her own and was often moved to tears at graduation, having seen so many girls grow into young women during their time in the dorm. By rough estimate, with approximately 100 boarders each year, Maria touched the lives of nearly 3,000 students. Ever cheerful and warm, she always offered a kind word and a welcoming smile to everyone she met. She was also known for secretly leaving small bouquets of flowers on the desks of colleagues to make their day.

Ramiro Garcia, also a thirty-year team member, tended Dunn’s grounds with steadfast dedication. For Ramiro, caring for Dunn meant the stewardship of all 55 acres of campus—over 2.4 million square feet — as well as maintaining the 22 faculty homes. A jack-of-all-trades, on any given day, one could find him pruning the roses, lining the athletic fields, training the honeysuckle vines, driving a tractor, and so much more. His work ensured that our campus remained safe, functional, and beautiful. Like Maria, he was known for his friendliness, strength, and gracious spirit. Together, the Garcias have seen Heads of Facilities and countless staff members come and go, yet they remained a dependable cornerstone of the school. Campus simply won’t be the same without them, and we wish them every joy in retirement.

Lupita Robles joined the kitchen staff in 1999. More than a talented cook and a friendly presence, she served for many years as the second-in-command under Pam DeLongpré. Her time at Dunn has truly been a family affair, as she worked alongside both of her parents in the dining hall over the years. For decades, during the academic week, the community was treated to her wonderful dinners — including her legendary “Taco Tuesdays,” often featuring carne asada, homemade salsa, and her famous guacamole. Always attentive to students’ needs, Lupita frequently prepared second dinners and

In the 2023 Journal, Lupita gave a lovely tribute to Pam Delongpré upon her passing. We’re reprinting it here as it gives a glimpse into the fun and family atmosphere in the dining hall.

Lupita Robles worked with Pam for fourteen years and probably knew her the best of any of us. Lupita shared lots of their happy moments and crazy jokes. She told me, “Our road trips hold many special memories.” During Pam’s time, I learned that the Dunn Kitchen vehicle was a beloved but beaten-up old van. Lupita explained, “It was a grey, windowless van #7. We pretended it was our gangster vehicle.” Lupita shared that Pam would take the kitchen crew out for a meal in Santa Barbara every couple of months. Along the way, they would sing Mexican songs on the drive down.

Another tradition that the kitchen crew had was that on Pam’s birthday, they would take their kitchen van to the casino — not to gamble but for a good meal. “When the mariachi would make their rounds, we would always get them to sing Pam a song: ‘Las Mananitas’ (Happy Birthday).” For the most part, Pam was the only one on the kitchen crew who didn’t speak much Spanish, and this led to many funny conversations when the other party was not quite sure of what was being said. Lupita concluded, "Pam was not just my boss but a lovely human being. I was happy to come to work, and we had so much fun.”

Stories, Laughter, and Mediterranean Fare:

BAY AREA ALUMNI HONOR RALPH

LOWE WITH THE FIRST OFF-CAMPUS ACADEMY MEETING

On April 5, several members of the extended Dunn community gathered in the library of Crystal Springs Uplands School in Hillsborough for a Bay Area Alumni Gathering and the first off-campus meeting of the Ralph Lowe ’70 Academy. Led by Gene Vachon, the Ralph Lowe Endowed Chair, and joined by Mackenzie Lisenby ’09, creator of The Lowedown, a collection of Ralph's essays and musings, participants spent time reading and discussing one of Ralph’s graduation ceremony invocations.

Besides our discussion of the passage, everyone shared their favorite memories of Ralph and how he had impacted their lives. Mackenzie Lisenby ’09 and her husband, Anand Panchal ’09, made everyone laugh at their recollections of how Ralph gently nudged them together in his English class. Amy Geriak, a faculty member from 1998 to 2017, shared that Ralph, during his brief tenure as Head of Upper School, had hired her at Dunn in 1998, altering her and Mark’s life trajectories. Former Dean of Students Susie Childs and Kelsey Sullivan ’06 were also present, inspiring excessive laughter.

After the Academy discussion, the group enjoyed a Mediterranean dinner (in Ralph’s honor, a nod to his student trips to Greece), surrounded by books, a stone fireplace, and good company. The group, consisting of alumni, alumni parents, and former and current faculty members, spent the rest of the evening catching up and chatting. Alumnus Steven Manning ’75 drove down from Marin County to attend the gathering. He was able to share stories of his time at Dunn, both the humorous and poignant, with the eager audience of younger alumni and faculty.

While reading Ralph’s essays, one passage in particular was so arresting. In just a few paragraphs, it distilled his wisdom, his aspirations for the future, and his enduring hopes for humanity — a poignant reminder of how fortunate we are to have had Ralph’s presence in our lives.

Ralph’s Commencement Invocation (excerpt) — June 9, 2004

All of us, scrambling between heaven and earth, are precious and brittle. And the expectant young creatures to my left need all of our prayers in all of our languages to all of our gods. Our orison, our plea, is that they be compassionate, open, tolerant, and brave. That they understand heroism for what it is and what it is not. That they do no harm, and while they are not doing that, do good.

That they realize a civilization is judged by the way it treats women and children, the dispossessed and disabled and disenfranchised, and not by its warriors, demagogues, and bullies. That they are grateful for the lineage that has allowed them all of this. Let them acknowledge where all the ladders started, which have lavished upon them literacy, nutrition, occasional peace, leisure, and hope.

Let this be a plea that they consider the violent, brutish chronicle of our species as something that can be amended, ameliorated, and avoided. Let them take to the streets when offended, and let them be silent when they may offend for reasons only their own. This is a prayer for the cultivation of honesty, compassion, tolerance, circumspection, and awareness. Be brave. Care.

To read more brilliant passages by Ralph Lowe, email Mark Geriak (mgeriak@dunnschool.org) to request a copy of The Lowedown.

Spinning Yarns and Ping Pong Balls: A DUNN ALUMNI REUNION IN BOSTON

Special Accolades:

Ping Pong Champ:

Josh Marin ’23 (runner-up: Mark Geriak) Traveled Furthest: Frank Chen ’19 (flew in from NYC) Boston Local Organizer: Allen Lin ’20 (thank you!)

By Mark Geriak

Last fall, a charming collection of Dunn Alumni — all young men residing in New England — gathered at Spin, an upscale ping pong bar in Boston’s Seaport District. Joined by three current or former faculty members, it was a meaningful and memorable evening that, months later, I still reflect upon with pleasure.

These boys’ stories began all over the world — some in Asia, many in California, and one in West Africa. And yet, somehow, they all found

their way to Dunn, and then, on this night, we reunited.

I marvel at how the friendships forged at a little school in Los Olivos are so powerful that those connections pull them back together at a bar in Boston. What a pleasure to witness the genuine, simple, and powerful joy of seeing old friends reconnect.

For the adults at the event — a beloved former college counselor (Liz Tyng), the popular founder of

Jurgensen’s Entrepreneur Program (Chad Stacy), and me — we loved hearing the stories of how their collegiate and professional lives have come together. It was a memorable journey and a proud moment for us as we renewed our relationships with these alumni, sharing in the sheer joy of reunions, the warmth of rekindled friendships, and heartfelt stories from their cherished Dunn days. The older alumni shared that they would like their kids to have a Dunn School experience.

On my second day in Boston, Ben Dellis ’24 led me through the student quarter and down a narrow side street to Bukowski’s — a dim, weathered restaurant-bar named after one of his favorite authors and, fittingly, his favorite haunt. The place wore its grit proudly: sticky floors, laminated menus, wobbly wooden barstools. Ben, at ease in the glow of neon, ordered his signature choice — the Peanut Butter and Jelly Burger. Outside, the diffused glow of headlights from the interstate below shimmered against the windows, a false sunset cast by the restless traffic of I-95. Ben is thriving at Berklee College of Music.

After wrapping up his collegiate soccer career at Boston University, Peter Kargbo ’17 landed a job at Harvard and has settled into life in Boston with his longtime girlfriend, Leslie. Since I was his soccer coach for four years, our reunion was pure fun. Peter gave my sister and me a walking tour of the city, and later, over dinner, he was quickly reminded that old coaches never forget the bloopers. More than once, he laughed and groaned, ‘Come on, Coach, not that story…’ as I teased him about his 2016 playoff penalty kick, a throw-in that defied physics, and a few other classic moments from his Dunn days.

Sisters by Choice: A DUNN FRIENDSHIP THAT TRANSCENDS DISTANCE

Journal readers may recall the alumni interview in last year’s journal entitled “Wade and Orin: A 25-year Bromance Made in Earwigville.” That article concluded with the hope that more alumni would be interested in telling the story of their Dunn friendships. That hope materialized in Zoë Carter ’05 and Meg [Esser] Cruz ’04, another wonderful story of lifelong belonging and friendship that first blossomed at Dunn.

Early Connections

Mark Tell us about your friendship.

Meg We both call each other “sister.”

Zoë I don’t have a sister. The closest I have is Meg

Meg We’ve been in each other’s orbit since early childhood. Legend has it that either I gave Zoë the chickenpox or she gave it to me when I was three. Even though Zoë and I are one year apart in age. Until I moved to Santa Ynez, we grew up in the same tiny town of Los Olivos. We had so many friends in common, and a lot of the same hobbies, such as dance — we were both dancers at Los Olivos Dance Gallery. But it really coalesced for us at Dunn; it was a giant crescendo into my senior year. I was working at the student store, and I just remember spending hours and hours talking to Zoë while working. Eventually, our friendship grew quite close. I think for a lot of people at Dunn, after they graduate, they scatter, and it's hard to remain in touch. Zoë and I grew closer and closer with distance, which is so interesting. We’ve never overlapped again in a single city, so our entire adult friendship has been international, national, and at the closest, we were about 100 miles from each other.

Zoë Meg's mom, Debbie Esser, was my preschool teacher at Family School, so that's another connection point. And my mom, Michelle, was Meg’s pottery teacher. But in those pre-Dunn years, we weren’t close.

Meg My senior year at Dunn — Zoë's junior year — was when our friendship completely changed, and we just magnetized. I saw Zoë every single weekend of my senior year, and I was quite sad that I was moving to LA after graduation. I did move back my first summer — the only summer of college that I lived at home — and Zoë and I worked

together at Cornerhouse Coffee when it first opened. We stood side by side. Zoë and I would have long conversations about life over tea together. We were both going through big changes with friendships, realizing that friends are there for reasons and seasons, and you don't always get to take them with you. Zoë's loyalty during that experience really solidified my feelings, knowing that this is someone who would always be there for me.

College Years and Beyond

Meg We stayed in touch during the four years of college, and I got to visit her when she was studying abroad in London. We have lived in, visited, or traveled to at least fifteen cities together. Zoë has traveled more of the world than anyone I know. Zoë is just calm under pressure — cool as a cucumber with everything. I don't like swimming through dark water, and she made me snorkel. I could list the ways, but here's my fear: what Zoë has forced me to do.

One thing that works in our friendship is that there's a feeling of adventure and fearlessness with Zoë that is truly incredible. I think everyone needs a brave and strong friend, and Zoë is that friend for everyone. But the strong friends also need friends — they need caregivers — because the strong ones are not always checked in on. I get to provide the check-in texts.

Zoë has an incredible work ethic. I've seen her as a worker, as an

events director, as a volunteer. I've lost count of the number of events I've attended as both Zoë's guest and a volunteer.

Being There for Each Other

Meg Zoë was in the hospital with me when my first daughter, Catalina, was born. That speaks volumes — I didn't have any other family there. Zoë is so take-charge. I've told her this: if I ever face something really hard in my life, I know that Zoë will be there.

I've had these really big, happy, sweet moments and wonderful adventures with her, but I've also had hard and painful times — surgery after my babies were born, mouth surgery — and Zoë was there for that. It's that kind of friendship that morphs into something much more than just friends. Like I said, we're sisters. She is the first person I call, whether the news is really terrible or really exciting.

Cruz County Business Council. It is a multi-decade friendship.

Zoë We've done and been through a lot together, but it takes effort. It takes effort to stay in touch, to see each other, and to be there. It's not easy, and it's even harder now that Meg has two young kids and is trying to balance motherhood. At the same time, I'm heavily involved in my community — serving on nonprofit boards, consulting, and running an organization. You have to make the time.

He played a significant role in our love of history. We go to the South together — we were in Charleston a couple of years ago, and we always think about Scarb. The other person is Mr. Munger, the headmaster. He was endlessly supportive, so warm and welcoming. We also spent a lot of time doing photography and developing photos under Mr. Jacoby’s guidance. We spent a lot of time in the lab together. That was our other space — if we weren't in the student store, we were in the photo lab.

Diane Cortez, Meg's advisor, was really important to her. And Michelle Bone was mine. She really nurtured my passions. When we were just down for alumni weekend, we stayed with her — she's still in Los Olivos. We still see her and keep in touch with her.

The support I had and the availability of faculty to help me through challenges were incredible.

The Dunn School Experience

Zoë I don't think we've gone more than a week without talking since we graduated high school.

Meg Skype calls, FaceTime, texting — mostly texting now. We rarely go more than three months without seeing each other, and that involves driving long distances.

Family and Transparency

Meg People say that you look for a partner or someone like a best friend because they're a witness to your life. I really feel that way about Zoë. In every stage of her life, I've had the privilege to be a witness and to know her as a very little girl, then as a teenager, as a young woman, as a world traveler, and now as a community leader in Monterey as the Executive Director of the Santa

Zoë I don't think we would have gotten as close as we are now if we hadn't been at Dunn together. I decided to go there because school had always been tough for me, whereas it had always been easy for Meg. That's how I ended up at Dunn: I needed more educational support.

Being day students helped us connect with each other. Having that small community and knowing we could support each other every day was important. Dunn really fosters that.

We were definitely on different academic tracks, but Gene Vachon was instrumental for both of us; his English classes were amazing. I would be remiss if I didn't also mention Tom Scarborough, who was transformational for both of us.

The support I had and the availability of faculty to help me through challenges were incredible.

Meg It's so interesting — we're such different students who went into very different fields, though we overlap in the impact and community nonprofit space. Zoë and I were very different students, and we both belonged at Dunn.

That would be my big message: some of my closest friends who came out of Dunn were not similar to me as students. Like Eric Schrager, another close friend who went into finance. Justin Ching was a freshman when I was a senior. I think it speaks to the diversity of Dunn and its student profile. But Dunn creates a very inclusive community and village — sometimes that's other students, sometimes that's teachers, or both. For me, it was a combination of factors, and I think for Zoë, it was largely due to her teachers being

really inclusive and saying, "You belong here." Dunn is a very special place. Every time Zoë and I talk about our high school, people are always like, "Wow, what a unique experience."

I feel really grateful for the diverse friendships I have today, and that started at Dunn. It taught me that I can be friends with people who have different identities, families, backgrounds, and aspirations. But we all have the same values and value system: we care about humanity, the environment, community impact, volunteering, and service. Zoë and I do a lot of that together, and that came from Dunn for sure.

Dunn opened the Door to Political Aspirations and Career Paths

Zoë From the time I was in high school, I was very interested in politics when nobody else really was. It was very unique for someone who was 15 years old to care. In seventh grade, I sat my parents down and made them watch The West Wing with me — that's kind of when it started, and that's what I

would tell people during my two political campaigns. On my senior page at Dunn, I said, "I'll see you at the White House." Five years later, there I was, working in the East Wing. You can't predict that stuff — you don't know that's going to happen.

Being at Dunn allowed me to realize that I could go to college, which might not have been an opportunity for someone like me with ADHD. I got my college acceptance to CSU Monterey Bay, where I ultimately went, on Christmas Eve. It was definitely meant to be. Looking back on my career, I wouldn't have wanted it any other way because I wouldn't have met Leon and Sylvia Panetta had I not been at CSU Monterey Bay. I wouldn't have landed at the White House so quickly either. I applied to one grad school in London and got in. Dunn fosters that ability for

students to see what they can do and how they can get there.

Staying Connected to Dunn

Mark You both attend Dunn alumni gatherings — reunions, alumni events, and more. You're really good about showing up. What does it mean to you?

Zoë Meg is a great passenger princess and loves to be driven, so she will come, and I will drive us down. It's really special for us to be able to go back and relive our time there.

Meg Going back to alumni weekend keeps me connected to the Santa Ynez Valley, as it was our hometown. For me, Zoë is such a big part of my memories of Dunn. I was really happy my senior year there and left on such a high note. It's about paying it forward. We both had such a rich, fertile ground that we grew from at Dunn — like trees planted. It taps back into what I need to be grateful for and where I came from, and Dunn is even more special today.

Look Who Came to Campus

NOU PHOULEUANGHONG ’71 After Years Away, Returns for a Campus Visit

Nou Phouleuanghong ’71 first arrived at Dunn School in 1968 from Laos, and this past June, he returned to campus with 15 members of his extended family. As part of a West Coast trip, Nou’s family of siblings, nieces, nephews, and several grandnieces and grand-nephews visited Los Olivos to see where he attended school during his junior and senior years, from 1968 to 1971. Family members from Chicago, Indiana, and Washington State spilled out of their rented minivans to walk the campus and hear stories from Nou’s Dunn days.

Nou himself was delighted to be back on campus, repeatedly vocalizing his awe at the transformation of the school property, and was proud and happy to share his Dunn experience with his extended family.

We began our tour at the old bomb shelter, where Nou explained to his younger relatives why it had been necessary back in the late ’60s. From there, we walked through one of the new dorms and then made our way to his old room — Senior Dorm #8 — which he once shared with William Heath Krieger ’71.

From Senior Dorm, we walked to the picnic tables, where we flipped through the 1971 yearbook, pausing at photos of Nou splashing around during the Sespe Wilderness trip. The younger relatives lit up when they spotted a photo of him competing in a track meet (pictured). Later, as we continued our walk, his nephew Eric shared that his uncle had played a major role in his own journey as a triathlete; the two of them used to run races together. At 18, Nou chose this Thoreau quote for his senior page:

“If one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with success unexpected in common hours.”

- H.D. Thoreau

It seems like he was foreshadowing his own future. After graduating, Nou settled in Warsaw, Indiana, and had a long career as a phlebotomist at a nearby hospital. Upon our parting, Nou’s extended family expressed that he is their anchor, a beloved patriarch, supporting the younger generations to find their way. Nou, you have made the earwigs proud.

If you haven’t visited campus in a while, please come on by when you’re in the area. Contact Alumni Director Mark Geriak for a tour and to tell your own story.

Amid the vastness of the world, there’s something profoundly reassuring about small places like the Dunn campus — where community thrives, friendships deepen, and students are shaped by the care and wisdom of a devoted faculty.

Look Who Came to Campus

Michael Tseng ’11 with Matt Yaki and Nancy Yaki

- Christy Davidge ’98

Christy Davidge ’98 with the Westcott Family

Andy Tran’96 with Barbara Haig

Charles Fairbanks ’64 Visiting the former soccer pitch

David Hamilton ’89

Look Who Came to Campus

Matthew Musson ’24 and Helen Pruitt-Kennett ’23

Brandon Hemming and Austin Abelar ’06 with Kelsey Sullivan ’06

Wade Cowper ’05 and wife Paula

Daphne Urquidez ’24 with Matt Yaki and Kelsey Sullivan ’06

Tabitha Williams ’07 with Vicki and Gene Vachon

More than three decades of Dunn faculty met at Kam Jacoby's recent photography retrospective at Solvang's Elverjoj Museum. Pictured: Gabi Robbins, Amy Geriak, Cynthia Ward, Cornelia Cadwell, Karen Jensen, Kam Jacoby, Vickie Gill, Mark Geriak, and Stacey Adams. Present but not pictured: Dorothy Jardin.

Ben Stillman ’05 and Family

Look Who Came to Campus

Chase Sater ’16 with Meg Watson and Mark Geriak

Chen Yeun Edwin Kwong ’04 and Family

Kelsey Sullivan ’06 and Reed Stevens ’04

Chen Yeun Edwin Kwong ’04 and Family

Ali Parvas ’78

Sang Yoon ’10 Chung and Alex Westcott

Enthusiasm for Life: OHN MEIER ’ 63 J

John joined Dunn in 1960 as a sophomore and quickly became a vibrant presence on campus. He played on the soccer team, managed the baseball teams, and shared a love of the outdoors through a hunting club with his father. His Upper School room became a gathering place for fellow lifters — often alongside his good friend Bill Sigrist.

John’s intellectual curiosity was equally apparent. He loved reading Catcher in the Rye and Hawaii, and he eagerly explored new ideas in the classroom. Beyond Dunn, he broadened his horizons on a European trip led by Mr. Derville, during which he visited 15 countries. The journey included flights to New York, a transatlantic voyage to Lisbon, and travel by train, boat, and

the group even bought a “Microbus” for a driving tour of Switzerland and Austria. John relished his week in Paris, marveling at the culture and history of both France and England. That same summer, he balanced his travels with hard work back home as a cigarette stamper and warehouse worker at Turner Wholesale Co.

Given the close-knit nature of the Dunn student body at the time, John’s portrait of Mrs. Berry, the cook, in a hypothetical faculty meeting was a huge hit. It perfectly captured — and celebrated — the camaraderie among the students. From the soccer pitch to the streets of Paris, John lived with an enthusiasm for life, adventure, and connection, a legacy his friends will always remember.

Our heartfelt gratitude to John for remembering Dunn School in his will, joining other alumni who make a lasting difference through the Heritage Fund.

THE HERITAGE FUND

The Heritage Fund is a profound way alumni can ensure the enduring strength and future of Dunn School. By including Dunn in your estate plans — such as a bequest in your will or naming the school as a beneficiary of a retirement account — you join a committed group investing in the school's long-term success. These planned gifts provide a crucial foundation of support that perpetuates Dunn's mission and distinctive educational experience for generations, creating a lasting personal legacy.

To learn more, please reach out to the Dunn School's Advancement Office at advancement@dunnschool.org or call Jennifer Freed at (805) 686-0609.

MIKE WYER ’ 65

A Traveler and Adventurer Who Followed His Passions

Michael Wyer ’65 came to Dunn from La Jolla, proudly carrying the banner for Southern California as an outdoor sportsman’s dream. He was never shy about defending his hometown in spirited debates with classmates, insisting that San Diego was the true surfing capital of California. While surfing was one of his great loves, Mike’s favorite sport was skiing, and he often argued that Mammoth Mountain deserved the title of “the ski capital of California.”

Classmate Chris Wesselman remembers Mike as "a quiet young man, a diligent student and an excellent tennis player. I’m sure Tony Dunn would say that Mike 'always did what was asked of him and did an admirable job of it.' Although reserved when Mike weighed in on situations or was asked by faculty, his answers always reflected consideration and good judgment. He was a valued member of our Dunn Community.”

became a dedicated numismatist, endlessly sorting through coins in the hope of finding a rare 1909 penny or 1916 dime. He was also a lifelong Dodger fan, rarely missing a broadcast. Many late nights found him glued to the radio, often sparring in good humor with the lapmaster on duty, who would sometimes confiscate his prized transistor.

remembered by another classmate, Hal Esbenshade, who hosted him on several visits to Australia. Mike was often drawn to Rottnest Island off Perth, where his love of all things wild and wonderful focused on photographing the native Quokkas, who fascinated him with their antics!

Athletics were central to Mike’s years at Dunn. As a junior, he played JV soccer as a right winger, and by his senior year, he had earned a spot in the same position on the varsity team. Tennis, however, was where he truly excelled — competing on the varsity squad all four years and consistently ranking among the school’s top players. His talent carried into college, where he played for the University of California, Irvine tennis team.

Beyond sports, Mike had a wide range of passions. As a teenager, he

Despite these occasional clashes, Mike earned the respect of his peers and was appointed Quad Prefect in his senior year.

After graduation, Mike developed a passion for hang gliding, chasing thrills across the globe — from France to Baja, Mexico, and his beloved Torrey Pines Cliffs. Willis Allen ’64 fondly recalled their adventures in Baja, joking about the rough landings: “We found sand in orifices we did not know existed on our bodies.”

His ability to meet and make friends, especially in pubs, is also well

Pete Hill, class of 1968, tennis sparring mate with Mike, Chris, Hal, and others, reported that the August 1st "Celebration of Life for Mike was amazing. The Wyer, McKellar, and Murphy Families were all in attendance at the event. Bill Allen, Class of ’64, and I were there to honor Mike’s passing and represent Dunn School. Approximately 40 to 50 people attended. Mike’s good friend, Terri Olson, was there with several of Mike's friends. Pictures were passed and stories were told for around three hours. It was truly a wonderful gathering."

Mike’s brother, Chris, reflected, “Dunn School was central to his life. He shared his passion for soccer and tennis with me and became an avid backpacker, exploring the Eastern Sierra like few others. Dunn also set him on the path to a rich life — sparking his love of language, travel, and the confidence to live abroad in France and Germany, where he mastered both languages.”

Our heartfelt gratitude to Mike for remembering Dunn School in his will, joining other alumni who make a lasting difference through the Heritage Fund.

Honoring JOHN ALGEO ’68 and the Dunn Teachers who Changed his Life

The Dunn community fondly remembers and celebrates the life of John Algeo ’68, one of the “Last Men of the Tony Dunn Era.” While he was an active presence on campus — whether on the swim team or in the Rod and Gun Club — John stood out for both his brilliant mind and the genuine warmth he shared with everyone around him.

Dunn School provided the setting, inspiration, and opportunity for John to thrive and grow into his future self. John’s younger sister, Rie Algeo Gilsdorf ’77, shared insights into both his intellect and what the Dunn experience meant to him: “John skipped a grade in elementary school and was always that short, smart kid everybody picked on. Dunn turned out to be a place where

he could quit trying to hide his big vocabulary or his grades.”

John’s 1968 yearbook biography reflects his deep dedication as a student and his impressive academic achievements. According to school records, he “was always in the library” during his seven years at Dunn — a testament to his love of learning. By the end of his senior year, he was awarded the Dunn Trophy of Excellence, along with prizes in Math, Biology, and Chemistry. He was recognized as a National Merit Scholarship Finalist. As Rie shared, “the family agrees that John was always the smartest guy in the room, no matter where.” After graduating from Dunn, he attended Harvey Mudd and earned a PhD in Analytical Chemistry.

He was also remembered as genuinely well-liked — a student whose accomplishments were matched by his character.

John’s close friend at Dunn, Bob Kumler ’68, recalls both his insatiable intellect and the warmth and kindness extended to him by the Algeo family.

“In 1966, as part of NASA’s spaceflight program, the Gemini spacecraft orbited the Earth. One day after school, we were playing outside our family home beneath one of the campus oak trees when John said, ‘Let’s figure out where the spacecraft is right now.’ He dashed into my parents’ house to grab a slide rule, determined to calculate the Gemini’s approximate position as it circled the globe.

John always surprised me with his knowledge – a comment in the middle of a conversation, or an obscure but relevant fact offered in class. He could distill a short story down to one sentence. He already understood much of the material in our physics, biology, and chemistry classes.

I was blessed to experience his mom’s cooking. He spoke fondly of his family and working with his dad. It wasn’t until a group of us from Dunn visited his father’s research laboratory that I realized how it had kindled his interest in the sciences and foreshadowed his career. There were tools and instruments that I had barely heard of, yet he was comfortable using them, and he would light up explaining how they worked. It was an endearing quality of his.”

Educators Who Made a Difference

GILBERT PRINCE

John always credited Mr. Prince with teaching him to write at a college level long before he reached college. He was often surprised that other students at Harvey Mudd struggled to complete their papers. In fact, when our family went through his possessions and important papers after his passing, we discovered an essay graded by Mr. Prince — a testament to the lasting impact of his teaching.

John was a founding member of the Computer Club, advised by Mr. Hasley, whom John considered a mentor. The enthusiasm of Mr. Halsey and the club members had a profound influence on John and his future career. Once a month, the club would come to the Algeo family home in Santa Ynez to meet and enjoy John’s mom's home cooking. Rie recalls, “It was Dunn camaraderie at its finest!”

ROBERT KUMLER

John thought of math teacher Robert Kumler as a role model for his Dunn days and beyond. John came home in 1971 to help his father modernize the family business, Santa Ynez Research Farm. By that time, Mr. Kumler had brought a teletype computer connection to Dunn, and John followed suit at the Santa Ynez Research Farm.

JOHN RINDLAUB

At Dunn, John Rindlaub was known as “the thin man from the mesa,” an area of Santa Barbara that overlooks the beautiful city where he spent most of his life. Yet during his time at Dunn, he became so much more — a spark of imagination, humor, and mischief woven into the fabric of his Dunn years.

As a sophomore in 1964, John was already dreaming up ways to improve dorm life. With nothing more than the string from laundry packages, he rigged an automatic light switch, a curtain pull, and even a door closer. It wasn’t about gadgets — it was about the fun of invention, the kind of thing only John would think to do.

That same spirit carried into art. With Whit Ingram, John transformed an abandoned classroom into a makeshift gallery. Walking into Hodges 2, you’d

find pastels, oils, and drawings signed with outrageous pseudonyms—“Van Whit,” “David Rembrandt,” “Melee,” “El Du,” and of course, John himself as “Salvador Pixie.” The art sold for pennies, the whole haul less than a dollar, but the laughter and camaraderie were priceless.

Spring brought a new adventure: co-owning a water tower with Lloyd Westbrook, which they turned into an artist’s garret. Later, as juniors, John and Lloyd transformed Upper School 3 into a space that was part warehouse, part pigsty, and part baroque museum. By senior year, John was “pound master,” living in Dog House 1. Mr. Dunn observed, “When Dog House was first built, it was a woodshed, later it became a chicken coop, and now Rindlaub lives there.” It was said with a smile, because John had a way of making every space

his own — a place for friendship, creativity, and a little chaos.

Those of us who knew John at Dunn will always remember him this way: inventive, playful, and full of imagination. He brought color to our days, turned ordinary places into stages, and left us with stories still worth telling. John carried this creative spirit for the rest of his life, working as a musician and artist in his beloved Santa Barbara. John’s classmate, Richard McCarty, shared, "I relished Rinny's spirit. His captivating smile on a mop head. For me, he redefined what being a nice guy was. Rinny was always up for our adventures. And we had a blast."

The Creative Life of REMEMBERING JAN JURGENSEN

Jan Jurgensen led an extraordinary life, beginning with her early years in Seattle and Philadelphia, through her studies at Stanford, and later as a devoted military spouse to Bob Jurgensen during their time at Fort Ord. Together, Jan and Bob built a life rooted in service and community, eventually settling at Dunn School, where Bob served as business manager, teacher, and baseball coach.

1954. It was there she met her future husband, Bob Jurgensen, marrying him in September 1953 after their junior year. Following graduation, Jan devoted herself to nurturing and raising their four children.

66th wedding anniversary. Jan is survived by her children Ken, Doug, Lynn (’76), and Neil Jurgensen, as well as four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Jan earned her B.A. in political science from Stanford University in

Jan and Bob shared a rich life, enjoying golfing, attending plays and concerts, playing bridge, and traveling both domestically and internationally, often punctuated by lively dinner parties with friends. Jan was remembered by her children as the "heart" of the family, known for the pure, unselfish loving kindness she showed to everyone. Bob passed away in June 2019, just shy of their

In the final line of Jan Jurgensen’s obituary, her children lovingly quote a lyric from the musical Guys and Dolls about giving “a bushel and a peck.” The phrase, derived from old measures of grain baskets, was transformed in the song into a playful expression of love that overflowed beyond measure. It is a fitting way to remember Jan, whose life was defined by that same abundance: kindness, generosity, and most of all, love. She gave to others not in small portions, but in bushels and pecks, leaving behind a legacy of affection that can still be felt in every life she touched.

Peter attended Dunn School for his high school years, an experience he often credited with profoundly shaping his life. The 1972 yearbook reflects just how full and accomplished his time was. On the

PETER TATUM

athletic fields, he won the “High Point Track Cup” on a fiercely competitive team and played varsity soccer, lacrosse, and track. Beyond athletics, he shone on stage — sharing the Director’s Award for Best Acting Performance and stepping into the lead role of Sky Masterson in Guys and Dolls. He also received the music award, an especially poignant recognition, given how deeply music continued to shape his life.

Even before Dunn, music was everpresent in the Tatum household —

THE INDONESIAN DREAM A Life Filled with Music

With the passing of Andy Bratamihardja ’89, his senior yearbook offers a poignant reminder of his spirit: a striking silhouette accompanied by the title “The Indonesian Dream.” The image captures not only his remarkable journey across the world but also the lasting impact he made on the Dunn community. It stands as a fitting tribute to a young man whose warmth, talent, and determination embodied so much promise.

During his years at Dunn, Andy distinguished himself in countless ways. He served as a Prefect, earned a place on the Dean’s List, and brought both skill and leadership to the basketball court — captaining the junior varsity team as a junior and later playing on varsity. Beyond athletics, he shared his musical gifts

as a member of the band, giving generously to every aspect of campus life. His presence left an indelible mark on classmates and teachers alike, remembered not only for his achievements but for the spirit with which he carried them.

His classmate Tony Labbe shared on Facebook, upon learning of Andy’s passing: “What a shock to see this.

My condolences to Andy’s family. Rest well, my old friend.”

whether through mandatory piano lessons or family outings to concerts featuring legends like Jimi Hendrix and Jefferson Airplane. That early exposure became a lifelong passion, weaving through every stage of Peter’s journey. One of his most meaningful contributions came later in life as Vice President of the Petaluma Music Festival Board of Directors, where he nurtured both his love of music and his community, forging enduring friendships with those who shared his passion for song and for the town of Petaluma.

HARLES IVERSON The Extraordinary Impact of C

Charles Iverson, a beloved faculty member who taught and coached at Dunn from 1968 to 1975, has passed away.

As Nick Thacher reflected in his remembrance of his dear friend, colleague, and neighbor from Dunn’s early, formative years:

As the school grew and put its institutional roots down among the walnut trees and constant dust, Chuck Iverson affected the quality of each day — and consistently for the better, even when one might be consigned as a newlywed to a baby-blue, 30-foot-long trailer perched behind the thundering rock music of a boarding school dormitory.

Throughout his years at Dunn, Chuck taught a wide array of math and science courses and was a steady, grounding presence on the sidelines, coaching both basketball and baseball. Coaching remained part of his life after retirement: his daughter Rachel shared that only a few years ago, he coached his grandson’s basketball team. A graduate of Harvey Mudd, he brought to the classroom and the playing field a rare blend of intellectual rigor and heartfelt dedication.

Yet, as the reflections below make clear, Chuck’s influence reached far beyond academics and athletics. To the students he coached, the colleagues he worked beside, and the community that grew up around him, he embodied the spirit of this small school nestled among the oaks and walnut trees at the edge of Santa Barbara County — steady, kind, and quietly transformative.

REMEMBERING CHUCK IVERSON

When my newly-minted wife Sally and I arrived on the hot, dusty Dunn School campus in the summer of 1968, we discovered that we would be immediate neighbors of Becky and Chuck Iverson, each family ensconced in adjacent portable mobile homes (translation: trailers) perched on concrete slabs that had been positioned behind the bedraggled main dormitory Quadrangle.

Chuck would be teaching science; I would be handling a variety of English courses. And our young wives would be tending to the housekeeping requirements of our mobile home lifestyle. Within a year or two, the Headmaster, Bill Webb, had secured a gift to construct two handsome duplex homes that shared a common covered garage, and we settled into a companionable neighborly relationship with one another as we did our best to trample out ignorance in our modest little educational vineyard.

Because Chuck was a scientist and I a humanities maven, we had little in common professionally, but we all quickly developed a pleasant personal relationship that lasted for many years as the school grew and put its institutional roots down among the walnut trees and constant dust.

Chuck was a remarkable teacher and an even more remarkable basketball coach. His personal warmth, singular equanimity, and professionalism in the classroom, faculty conversations, and athletic tussles had an enormous impact on my development as a teacher and coach. He personified understated elegance, both on and off the basketball court, and in the intense professional dialogues that characterized our weekly Monday evening faculty discussions. And though he taught me absolutely nothing about physics and chemistry and earth science, he embodied to his core the values and observations of how to effectively reach out and

By Nicholas Thacher

inspire diffident adolescents with impossibly long hair and remarkably short attention spans.

He was, in short, a good friend and colleague, thoughtful, generous, and extremely self-effacing. And — wonder of wonders — he was extraordinarily helpful when the Headmaster assigned me to coach a JV basketball team for which I was totally unprepared. Impeccably professional in every respect, Chuck modeled behavior and deportment in and out of the labs and classrooms, which inspired not only me but most of my Dunn colleagues. All this, while he never ever called attention to himself!

So it is probably fair to say that he was the glue that held our fractious, dedicated, and often irascible faculty together — while consistently avoiding calling attention to himself. Chuck’s recent death impoverishes us all, but I, for one, am enormously grateful for having the privilege of interacting with him (and with his wife Becky and daughter Rachel) for nearly a decade.

It is not an exaggeration to say that he was the kind of person (and teacher) who affected the quality of each day and, consistently, for the better, even when one might be consigned as a newlywed to a baby blue 30-foot-long trailer perched behind the thundering rock music of a boarding school dormitory quadrangle.

I was sad to hear of Chuck Iverson's passing. He and his wife Becky were a wonderful couple whom I greatly admired. In addition to teaching, Chuck was the varsity baseball coach when I arrived, and he allowed me to assist him until he left Dunn, after which I took over. Chuck was one of the kindest, most even-tempered people I ever knew.

Chuck was the yin to my yang... I was loud, performative, temperamental; he was quiet, thoughtful, and even-handed. We were part of the famous faculty that started at Dunn in 1968. Chuck was a bastion of sanity on that crazy but extremely talented faculty. He was also one of the best athletes in faculty/student showdowns.

Upon hearing of Chuck Iverson’s passing, I was taken back in time to our eclectic late 1960s faculty, most of whom were newly hired by Tony Dunn’s successor, William Webb. Though Chuck and I both attended the Claremont Colleges — he, Harvey Mudd, and I, Claremont McKenna College — we’d never met. At Dunn, it soon became apparent that his ability to inject common sense and fairness into any discussion, whether in a faculty meeting, metering out discipline to a student, or coaching, was rare. His presence elevated the school. We have lost a mentor, a friend, and a good soul. My warmest condolences to Rachel.

Last winter, Guy Walker ’76 and his wife, Molly, traveled to Northern California to visit Coach Charles Iverson. After learning that Coach was facing health challenges, Guy rallied the 2024–25 Dunn basketball team to sign a basketball as a gesture of support. He and Molly then brought the gift to Aptos, California, where they met with Coach Iverson, his children, and grandchildren to present it in person. It was a heartfelt act — one former player finding a way to bring comfort and joy to the coach who had meant so much to him.

Bob LeRoy shared, “I last saw him in 2012, when a group of us faculty from the Bill Webb era got together.” From left to right: Bob Jurgensen, Doc Macomber, Stu Thomson, John Sanger, and Chuck Iverson.

John Sanger shared:

English teacher Steve Gill observed:

Colleague Bob LeRoy shared:

Special Saturday Wine Event

Recently featured in Wine Enthusiast’s “10 of America’s Most Influential Latinx-Owned Wineries,” join our own Fidi Flores ’10 on a guided tasting of his Esfuerzo Wine on Saturday afternoon.

So Many Events to Choose from

• Opening Dinner in the Firestone Walker Brewing Company Taproom

• Wine Tasting with Fidi Flores ’10

• A Celebratory Saturday dinner

• Honoring the Alum and Young Alum of the Year

• Brunches in the Dining Hall

• Happy Hours

• Dorm Life

• Golf

• Pickleball

• ... and more!