Class Notes: Volume 1, 2023-2024

50 Years of Dwight-Englewood… 135 Years of Educational Excellence.

The Commencement for the Class of 2023 marked the 50th anniversary of the first class to graduate from the ‘new’ Dwight-Englewood School in 1973. This milestone event represented both D-E’s tradition of excellence and legacy of innovation.

Since the merger of the Englewood School for Boys and Dwight School for Girls, D-E has proudly stood for meeting “the challenges of a changing world and make it better.” Our mission is made possible through your support.

The Annual Fund is the foundation of our school’s culture of philanthropy and donors like you make the critical difference.

Questions? Email us at: giving@d-e.org

Can we count on your support?

Please visit www.d-e.org/giveonline or scan the QR Code below!

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DWIGHT ’42

f Page Bridgman Kidder passed away on April 30th at the age of 98. In 2011, following the death of her husband, Amos “Bud” Kidder ’39, Page moved to Cape Cod, where she enjoyed her life engaging in her passion for photography, and spending good times with her many new friends. She was the loving stepmother of William “Buck” Kidder ’66 and Edward “Terry” Kidder ’72.

ESB ’47

f The family of Arthur Brockie notified us of his passing on May 16, 2023. One of his daughters shared this moving tribute with us:

“It’s taken me most of the day to try and wrap my head around the loss of our father and what I wanted to say. Our dad was born in 1929 and would have turned 94 in July. He was from a generation that believed in hard work, duty and service to our country. He took to heart what his father told him about being thankful for the chance to have an education in this country, and followed through on his promise to his father that he would pay for our education. I can count on one hand how many times I remember him calling in sick to work. He used to tell me that your job owes you nothing; you owe your job everything. There are so many things that he taught me that I carry forward. He loved his family especially his parents, and his brother and sisters. He didn’t want to be on this Earth without them and had a very hard time when they passed. He loved his nieces and nephews, and his grandchildren so much. He was of a different generation—one of honor, dignity, responsibility, courage. I’m very thankful for everything that he gave me, especially my sisters, and I already miss him very much!”

Class Notes

DWIGHT ’50

f Sophie “Fifi” McClanahan Barnes shared photos and excerpts from the Dwight Class of 1950 yearbook, of the late Mary Anne O’Connor Montgomery after the news of Mary’s passing. (Editor’s note: please note the corrected date of Mary’s death which was October 4, 2020).

Mary and Fifi were best of friends while students at Dwight. They participated in the Glee Club, the Choir and in the Student Cabinet where Mary served as President her senior year. Mary and Fifi lost touch after commencement, but we were able to reconnect before Mary passed away. Fifi told Mary what she remembered most about her was her saying “Let’s not get carried away with the program.”

Fifi recently turned 91 years old and has some accomplishments to report. She wrote a book of poetry called Seeing Out which her daughter Julia McHugh had published, and it can be found in circulation at the Westport Library in Connecticut.

Fifi’s daughter, Lisa Greenwood, is well known as the “Twinkle Toes Lady” for the original Alaskan “All Terrain Socks” she’s been making and selling locally since 1991. Her business, Twinkle Toes and Wild Outer Wear (W.O.W), now includes skirts, hats, hoodies, and more. Lisa’s granddaughter (Fifi’s great granddaughter), Hadley, will be turning ten years old soon. Fifi’s third daughter, Meg Barnes, is an entrepreneur and is residing in Port Townes, Washington where her twin sister Julia also resides. Her fourth daughter, Lydia, is currently residing in New England. She attended Choate and graduated from Bowdoin.

DWIGHT ’56

f Patricia Neary Stewart passed away on May 18, 2022. We learned of her passing from her husband Hugh who shared that she valued the excellent education she received in her years at Dwight. Her obituary was published by Null & Son Funeral Home:

“Patricia Neary Stewart was born the eldest child of John F. Neary, Jr. and Rosalia Bushnell Ingham on February 21, 1938 in Englewood, New Jersey. Her father’s active duty during the Korean War took the family for two years in Sendai, Japan. Graduating from Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School she entered the College of Wooster in Ohio where she graduated with a major in English. She earned a Masters from Case Western in Cleveland which took her to suburban Philadelphia to teach English at the Ellis School for Girls.

Becoming a member of the Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church, she joined the choir and the single adult group. Not long after, she met, started dating, became engaged and married the new assistant minister Hugh V. Stewart. A year later, they moved to suburban Detroit, Farmington Hills, where their two daughters, Rosalia and Amy, were born and Pat became both a gardener and an Avon Lady.

Moving to Grand Blanc, a suburb of Flint, Pat continued singing in the choir and digging in the dirt along with teaching English at Mott Junior College. Being the wife of a Presbyterian minister, she traveled with him to Rolla in 1989 where she joined the University faculty as an Instructor in English. It was then she got really serious about plants and became a Master Gardener.

When Hugh left to begin interim ministry, Pat became part of Christ Episcopal Church, the choir and a garden for their flower beds. For a number of years, especially after her retirement, you could see her happily nurturing appropriate growing things. During that time Pat became an Eucharistic Minister which led to her profession as a lay member of the Third Order of St. Francis. It was only in more recent years as the dementia progressed that it was necessary for Pat to leave Eucharistic Ministry, the choir and the plants behind. She has been well cared for by Oak Pointe of Rolla andin her concluding days by Three Rivers Hospice.

Her husband, Hugh; daughter, Rosalia and husband, John Meusch and children – Stewart, Rosalia and Lydia; and daughter, Amy and husband, Dennis Cook and children – Madison [Chris] Hay and Aiden Jones survive; along with brothers Michael [Sandy] and Robert [Lynette] Neary and sister, Sheila [Bill] Prezzano.”

ESB ’65

f We received the following updates from Andrew Odell who was inspired to submit news after bumping into Ben Gerson in his neighborhood park:

“I am in regular contact with David Guss, Professor Emeritus in the Anthropology Department of Tufts University and now Trustee and Programming Committee Director of the Somerville Museum outside of Boston. David’s daughter Chloe just gave birth to her second child and lives in Brooklyn (around the corner from my daughter, Katherine, by happenstance). Ben Gerson, now retired, achieved great success as a lawyer and journalist, most recently as Editor-in-Chief of the National Law Review.

My meeting with Ben gave rise to reaching out to Tony Pisani, who lives on the West Side near Central Park; Ben and I are just arranging a lunch with Tony.

My son Peter, too, lives on the West Side, and after a stint as an investment banker, now does M&A for a publicly-listed company. My daughter, known as Kat, has carved out a career as a journalist in the hospitality industry with 2 published books, appearances in the TV media (including as a Times Square New Year’s moderator), etc. She is married to a 3-star Michelin chef (we eat/drink incredibly when they are around) and, most importantly, delivered our first grandchild recently.

My wife, Vlasta, will be retiring from her art consulting position in the near future, and I continue my corporate law practice. We live in Manhattan but spend more time in the country.

My brother Peter ’60 continues his ophthalmology practice in the City, and Vlasta and I see my brother and wife frequently on the weekends.”

DWIGHT ’66

f There was a small Dwight School Class of 1966 gathering recently in Washington, DC at the home of Nancy Lieblich Garson . Pictures (right to left) Nancy, Kristen Knipfer Kivett , and Jeri Roseth Smith sharing a few laughs while looking through the Dwight 1966 Senior book. Nancy’s husband Tom looked on laughing as well!

ESB ’66

f Jonathan Granoff was a featured guest on the Apple podcast American Speaks. The episode entitled, “Global Threats and New Thinking With Jonathan Granoff” covers a myriad of topics from nuclear threats to climate disruption to human rights. Jonathan is the President of Global Security Institute, Permanent Observer for the International Anti-Corruption Academy to the United Nations, and is an attorney, author, and international advocate.

ESB ’71

DWIGHT ’71

f Joey Sadel shared this photo of his grandson William (4 years old), checking out his brand new goalie and defenseman, twins Dave and George.

f Susannah Labov Page stopped in Boston while en route to a conference, and met up with Elaine Ober-Skagestad and Pam Hatchfield for lunch. According to these “three happy Dwighties,” it was great fun and a real treat to be together again.

D-E ’74

f Matt Vita retired as Sports Editor of the Washington Post in June 2023. During his tenure, he was responsible for overseeing numerous ground-breaking and award-winning projects. We learned from a note shared by his brother John Vita ’68 that, “During Matt’s 14 years as sports editor, the department won more than 30 section awards and 90 individual honors in the annual Associated Press Sports Editors contest.” These are only a few of the achievements that Matt has accomplished during his long and storied career in journalism. Following his retirement, Matt plans to move to his small farm in western Massachusetts, where he’s hoping to do some writing and tend to his vegetable garden. He and his wife Katie will divide their time between the Berkshires and New York City. They have two adult children living in New York and Los Angeles.

D-E ’80

f We received this update from Laurie Reiter Ludwin, “My husband and I recently finished building our dream home on Seabrook Island, SC. It ’only’ took a little less than 3 years, but it was well worth it. We like to say that we live where people vacation. Our 2 sons are all grown but love to come and visit with their friends. I thought I would be less busy after making the move from NJ, but it did not turn out that way. I have 2 businesses, am a certified personal trainer, and once in a while, I participate in fitness competitions. All in fun! If anyone is ever in the neighborhood, I would love to hear from you.”

f After more than a 20+ year hiatus, Steven Toffler got the chance to perform on stage in the role of Joseph Pulitzer in Lake Worth’s Playhouse production of the musical, Newsies. Steve was very happy to have many D-E Alumni come to support him in the production, including Loredana Scharankov Toffler ’84, Larry Toffler ’81, Nina Simelson Kaplan, Jodi Luchs ’83, Cheryl Stotter Magnuson, Pam Farnsworth ’83, Mindy Langweil ’81, and Dana Post Adler ’85.

f Congratulations to Marjory Morris Selig and her husband Mark on the birth of their first grandchild. Adam Jackson “A.J.” Infanzon was born to their daughter Julia and her husband Dom on May 25, 2023.

f Maria Gray has been enjoying some dog walks at the beach in Santa Monica with Carolyn McEwen and their pups.

f Dan Dubelman, aka Doctor Dan, and his band performed at Frank Woods venue, The Hard Swallow, recently named one of the top dive bars in New York City. Based in Englewood Cliffs, Dan travels the country performing at dive bars, venues, and private parties. Dan performs monthly at the Hard Swallow and will release a full-length CD in 2024.

f Joe Langer ’84 shared some photos from a cabaret show held on June 16, 2023, featuring Mira Sorvino ’85 at the Carlyle Hotel in New York City. He attended the show which was described as superb with his spouse Paul Pagnini, Roshanak Malek Afkhami ’85, and Mindy Merdinger ’84.

Joe also shared a photo of Mira and him from 1983 when they were the leads in the D-E production of Play It Again Sam, and a photo of Joe and Mira at the show. Mira currently is starring in the movie, Sound of Freedom, a movie about human trafficking in

D-E ’82

f Pictured are Hope Miller Chernin, Janet Weisinger Ginsberg, and Robyn Binstein Zeller at Janet’s daughter-in-law’s bridal shower.

Photo courtesy of Hope!

D-E ’83

D-E ’84 & D-E ’85

South America, now playing at theaters everywhere. Sorvino has been affiliated with Amnesty International since 2004. In 2006, she was honored with their Artist of Conscience Award, given to those who have made longstanding philanthropic and humanist efforts. From 2009 to 2012 she was a United Nations Goodwill Ambassador for combating human trafficking and has lobbied Congress to abolish the practice in Darfur.

D-E ’89

f Chris Ciocon passed away peacefully at home after a long period of health complications. He was a great friend to those lucky enough to know him and is remembered as a gentle and compassionate spirit and gifted artist and musician. He is survived by his brother David Ciocon ’90 and his mother.

f Michael Ben-David was appointed as Tenafly Public School’s next Superintendent in March 2023. An article was published by the Patch of MendhamChester, NJ on March 28, 2023 announcing Michael’s departure as Superintendent of Schools of the West Morris Regional High School District where he served since 2015.

D-E ’98

f Isaac-Davy Aronson announced the launch of his new podcast, Rachel Maddow Presents: Déjà News, on June 12, 2023, which he is executive producing and co-hosting with Rachel Maddow. In the podcast, Isaac and Rachel “seek a deeper understanding of a story in today’s headlines.” You can hear the first episode and follow along with Isaac here: https://link.chtbl.com/rmpdn_tw

D-E ’99

f Bill Schaller recently ran his first half marathon in Brooklyn, NY, and plans to run nine (smaller) races in 2023 to qualify him to run in the 2024 NYC Marathon. He currently lives in Brooklyn with his wife Katherine, and daughters Diana (4) and Claudia (2), and works in pharmaceutical advertising in NYC.

f Under the leadership of Program Director Chad Mekles, and James Robinson, their coach, the CMEK Boys Basketball travel team became back-to-back league champions in the Winter and Spring. The team was composed of 3rd and 4th graders, all who attend D-E. While some of the boys began playing in the CMEK program since age 4, the group started training as a team together last year to prepare to play in the club league. Zeyad Baker ’97 and his wife Miriam hosted both championship celebrations.

Pictured from left to right: Livingston Miller ’32, Ronan Monoky ’32, Kaveer Dhillon ’31 (son of Kalpana Bains ’99), Jad Baker ’31 (son of Zed Baker ’97), Naveen Maharaja-Patel ’31, Faris Aboufares ’32, Rehan Vira ’32, Asees Singh ’32, Crosby Machuca ’32, Ved Davda ’32 Not pictured - Kabir Bhatia ’31 (who is on the team but did not attend the championship game.)

f We sadly report the passing of Adam Haber on Monday, May 1, 2023. Adam was the brother of Eric Haber ’85, Paul Haber ’88, David Haber ’00, Scott Haber ’03, and Casey Haber Margaritis ’08 (Andrew Margaritis ’06). He was the son of Alfred Haber and Susan Laden. His obituary was published by the New York Times on Monday, May 7:

“Haber, Adam, age 50 of Los Angeles, CA formerly of Englewood, NJ, passed away on May 1, 2023. A graduate of Dwight Englewood High School and a Graduate of Lynn University. He was a Television Industry Executive.

Beloved father of Ellie, Evan and Olivia Haber. Devoted son of Susan Laden and Alfred Haber. Cherished brother of Eric, Paul, David, Scott Haber and Casey Margaritis. Adored uncle of eight nieces and nephews. Former husband of Betty Ganot Haber. He was a dear friend to many around the world.”

f MineHub Technologies Inc. announced this past July the appointment of Andrea Palacios Aranguren as its new Chief Executive Officer. Andrea previously served as the President and Chief Operating Officer of MineHub, joining the company earlier this year through the acquisition of Waybridge Technologies where she was the cofounder and Chief Customer Officer. MineHub is an open, enterprise-grade platform for digital trade, bringing efficiency, security, and responsibility to mining and metals supply chains. Kudos Andrea!

founding in 2015, they have entertained audiences across south central PA and at music festivals and competitions across the United States. This recent accomplishment is particularly poignant as it signifies a triumphant return to live singing following the pause during the pandemic.

f Anthony Arbaiza is currently a lead singer and the Marketing and PR manager for Parkside Harmony, a local chorus based in Hershey, PA. Anthony recently participated with Parkside Harmony in the 84th Annual Convention of the Barbershop Harmony Society in Louisville, KY, where they competed against top vocal ensembles from eight different countries. He is proud to share that they returned home with a silver medal from this prestigious International Chorus Competition, marking their highest placement to date. Parkside Harmony is an internationally acclaimed male a cappella group of 50 auditioned singers. Since its

f Mytia Story and her wife KC welcomed twin boys, Cypher John and Mathias Ezekiel, on October 28, 2022. Mytia and KC live in Englewood with their new baby boys, big sister Elise, and 5 fourlegged companions. Mytia is the Vice President & Senior Chemist at Lasting Impressions where she has worked for more than a decade researching and developing pigments for cosmetic or health applications. Mytia and KC were married in October 2020 and Liz Iannaconi officiated their wedding ceremony.

f Divya Lakhaney was mentioned in a news story on March 2, 2023 on PIX11 News NY about a, “NY girl, 9, continues on remarkable recovery after stroke.” Divya was the physician overseeing the case and was quoted in the article reporting on the young girl’s progress. Divya currently serves as Unit Chief/Pediatrician at Blythedale Children’s Hospital in Valhalla, NY.

D-E ’01

D-E ’03

D-E ’04

f Rebecca Shlien Sheehan has combined her experiences in broadcast journalism and motherhood to create a new podcast called “MOMlitics” (pronounced like “politics”). Episodes range from hot-button political issues impacting American families to creative ways to make the most out of parenting and raising kids. One recent episode featured Erica Zendell ’08, who discussed the challenges of being a female athlete in the combat sport of jiu-jitsu. For more information about Rebecca’s new podcast visit www.momlitics.com/about

D-E ’05 & ’06

f Max Sturm ’05 and Joe Alessi’s ’06 documentary Opera Kids was nominated for a New York Emmy® Award! Opera Kids premiered on the All Arts streaming channel created by the WNET Group on September 15, 2022. The documentary is a celebration of the Metropolitan Opera Guild Program “Creating Original Opera” founded in 1979 and chronicles the journey of D-E fifth graders as they create an opera from scratch under the direction of beloved Lower School Music Teacher Mary Heveran. You can watch the full episode of Opera Kids here: www.allarts.org/programs/allarts-documentary-selects/opera-kids-wi9swl/

D-E ’06

f Will Nazarian and his wife Caroline welcomed a new baby girl, Madeline Artemis, on

April 28, 2023. Congratulations to Will, his wife Caroline, and new grandmother Seta ’75. Will and Caroline were married in June 2022 and live in New York City.

D-E ’10

f We are deeply saddened to share the passing of Harrison Co on April 18, 2023. Harrison’s visitation and funeral mass was held on Friday, April 21 with numerous Dwight-Englewood School classmates, faculty, and friends in attendance. Since graduation, Harrison frequently lended his skills as a photographer to our D-E Communications Team. Harrison was predeceased by his father Benjamin and leaves behind his brother Tanner Co ’13 and his mother Victoria. His loss has left a profound impact on our entire community. He will be greatly missed.

D-E ’12

f Artoun Nazareth Festekjian married

Christina Hope Moore in Los Angeles, California on June 10th, 2023. Artoun is working in Los Angeles as an actor and comedian, and Christina works as an entertainment lawyer. They live together with their two cats, Lenny and Pepper!

D-E ’15

f Ryan Levin was elected in April 2023 to serve as the President of the Emory University School of Law Student Bar Association. Additionally, his law comment entitled, “Bankrupting the Matrix: DAOs and the Code,” was selected for publication in Volume 40 of the Emory Bankruptcy Developments Journal. This summer Ryan is working at the Securities and Exchange Commission in the Division of Trading and Markets. Congratulations Ryan!

D-E ’05

Calling for Alumni News

We are already gathering stories and photos for the next issue of D-E Alumni Class Notes. If you would like to submit your news and possibly a digital photo for the Class Notes section, we ask that you e-mail alumninews@d-e.org no later than Sunday, October 15, 2023. Take a moment and tell us what’s new with you… education, career, travel, marriage, family, etc.

Visit Class Notes online: alumni.d-etoday/classnotes Password: connect

Scan the QR Code to Submit your News & Updates to Class Notes Online! Remember to use the Password ‘connect’!

D-E ’17

Ashley Crawley’s first author paper entitled, “Nucleus accumbens shell neurons’ early sensitivity to cocaine is associated with future increases in drug intake,” was published in the December 2023 issue of Addiction Neuroscience. Ashley is currently getting her Ph.D. in Neuroscience at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).

D-E ’19

Jordan McKoy recently returned to campus to catch up with D-E faculty and former classmates. Jordan is pictured above with former Associate Director of Athletics, Greibin Agramonte. We were so glad to see Jordan back on campus!

f Ben Levin served as the 2023 Commencement Speaker at Wesleyan University Commencement Ceremony in May 2023. His remarks were featured in Wesleyan’s news blog the “Wesleyan Connection.” Ben graduated this year with a double major in government and education studies. Last year, Ben returned to campus to share his advice and insight with the graduating Class of 2022 as a panelist on our Senior Class Panel. Congratulations to Ben on this well-deserved achievement!

D-E ’22

f Ellen Chung won a prestigious prize (The Golden Circle Award) from the Columbia Scholastic Press Association (CSPA) for her illustration, “Immigrant,” which appeared in Calliope 2022. Ellen was one of 4,224 entrants and 606 winners in her category: print magazines and news. These entries come from publications produced by students at colleges, universities, and secondary schools throughout the United States and overseas who follow an American education plan. Ellen recently completed her first year at Tufts University. Congratulations to Ellen!

Alumni Outreach

Environmental and Sustainability Grant ‘Pollinator Garden’ Project Update

f The Nettie Louise Coit Teaching Garden has been thriving, and to add to its beauty, the garden now has two new signs to provide helpful information for the community. Now D-E community members can learn all about composting and native pollinator plants to support our lovely teaching garden.

The new signage is thanks to the Will Greenbaum Environmental Grant. Will Greenbaum ’09, son of VIvian Holzer D ’72 (pictured above), began the grant to support environmental actions and initiatives led by D-E students. A few of Will’s family members made an appearance for the signs’ installation. Here’s to passing down the green legacy!

A video interview with Will Greenbaum is available online to learn more about the grant. Head to www.alumni.d-etoday.org. Use the password ‘connect’ to enter.

Dwight-Englewood School notes with regret the passing of the following members of the extended Dwight School, Englewood School for Boys, and Dwight-Englewood School family. Every effort is made to include members of our community as we are made aware of their deaths. Please forward information to the Alumni Office at alumninews@d-e.org or to your Class Representative.

ALUMNI/ALUMNAE

DWIGHT 1942

Page Bridgman Kidder

4/30/23

Wife of the late Amos “Bud” Kidder ESB ’39; step-mother of William “Buck” Kidder ESB ’65 and Edward “Terry” Kidder ESB ’72; daughter of the late Janet Benner Bridgman D ’16; sister of the late Ann Bridgman Pitman D ’46; niece of the late Marion Benner Ferguson D ’12; predeceased by cousins Ruth Earle Brittan D ’34, Roxana Carnes D ’38, Barbara Benner Watt D ’39, Eleanor Benner Lindin D ’43, and Charlotte Benner D ’51

ESB 1947

Arthur Brockie

5/16/23

Son of the late Dorothy Rowley Brockie D ’09; brother of the late Edward Brockie ESB ’43 and the late Margaret Brockie Escher D ’36; uncle of Edward Brockie ESB ’68, Janine Brockie McKee D ’66, Douglas Brockie ESB ’73, Margaret Brockie Hill ’77, Caroline “Ticky” Escher Simian D ’61, David Escher ESB ’63, Nancy Escher D ’66, and Dorothy Escher-Kerr D ’73; nephew of the late Margaret Rowley Foote D ’14

DWIGHT 1950

Mary O’Connor Montgomery

10/4/20

Sister of the late Joseph

O’Connor ESB ’45 and the late Robert O’Connor ESB ’48

ESB 1950

William Crozier

2/21/2023

ESB 1955

Eugene Beaumont

8/9/23

Son of long-time former ESB teacher and coach E.Butler Beaumont and Caroline Hazelton Beaumont D’25; Brother of Carol Whitesell D’52 and Natalie Beaumont D’57

DWIGHT 1956

Patricia Neary Stewart

5/18/22

Daughter of late Rosalia Ingham D ’34; sister of Michael Neary ESB ’57 and Sheila Neary Prezzano D ’59

DWIGHT 1964

Victoria Eltinge Johnson

11/25/22

ESB 1972

Curtis Fried

4/26/23

Brother of Jeffrey Fried ’71 and Joshua Fried ’74

Andrew Wohl

8/8/19

D-E 1989

Christopher “Chris” Ciocon

8/16/2023

Brother of David Ciocon ’87

D-E 1990

Adam Haber

5/1/23

Brother of Eric Haber ’85, Paul Haber ’88, David Haber ’00, Scott Haber ’03, and Casey Haber Margaritis ’08; brother-inlaw of Andrew Margaritis ’06

D-E 2010

Harrison Co

4/21/23

Brother of Benjamin Co ’13 and son of Victoria Coletti

FAMILY AND FRIENDS

Enid Alpern

8/13/23

Former D-E Trustee; Mother of Dana Alpern ’73 and Susan Alpern Fisch ’77

Tony Bennett

7/21/2023

Father of D’Andrea “Danny” Bennett ESB ’72 and Daegel “Dae” Bennett ESB ’73

Patricia Bonacarti

1/15/23

Mother of Emily Bonacarti Nolfo D ’69, Alexander Bonacarti ESB ’71, Lisa Bonacarti Callaway ’74, Ellen Bonacarti ’75, Alexandra Bonacarti ’81, and Christopher Bonacarti ’84

Editor’s Note: This is the corrected notice from the last issue of Class Notes. Apologies to the Bonacarti family for our error of omission.

Edward Brodie

5/8/23

Father of Pamela Brodie Mankin ’85 and Darren Brodie ’92

Marguerite Lipton Bronster

7/6/23

Mother of Robert Rigolosi ’87, Rebecca Rigolosi ’89, Luke Rigolosi ’91, and Laura RigolosiIbarguen ’93; grandmother of Javier Ibarguen ’23, Anna Ibarguen ’26, Julia Ibarguen ’30, and many other grandchildren

Patricia Cunningham

8/13/23

Mother of Dean of College

Counseling Eileen Cunningham

Feikens; Grandmother of Julia Feikens’14 and Jack Feikens ’15

Dolores Holme

6/28/23

Grandmother of Joseph Spitzley ’18, Charlie Spritzley ’22, and Street Spitzley; mother of Kelly

Spitzley and mother-in-law of Trustee Emeritus Ray Spitzley

Hugh McKee

6/5/23

Father of Sandra McKee Kurth ’78, Jennifer McKee Mahoney ’83, Carolyn McKee ’89, and the late Paul McKee ’80

Nazar L. Nazarian

8/28/23

Father of Seta Nazarian ’75; Grandfather of William Nazarian ’06

Rosalie Oliff

4/8/2023

Mother of Marc Oliff ’78, Susan Oliff ’81, and Amy Oliff ’87; grandmother of Sam Oliff ’09 and Sara Oliff ’12

Roslyn Rosen

6/19/23

Grandmother of Sydney Taub ’12, Alex Taub ’15, Julia Taub ’20, and Evan Gold ’13

For a special article in remembrance

FORMER FACULTY

Roberta Schwartz

6/5/23

Former long-time D-E biology teacher and Senior Focus Program Advisor; mother of Janet Schwartz Blumenfeld ’87 and Daniel Schwartz ’90

(See page 12)

Bulldog Bookshelf

If you are a D-E alumna, alumnus, student, parent, or current or former member of the faculty or staff, we welcome your submissions to Bulldog Bookshelf. Please forward press releases, electronic files or cover art, and related materials about your book, music release, or film to: alumninews@d-e.org. Bulldog Bookshelf descriptions are adapted from promotional materials and do not reflect the views or opinions of the School or its staff.

Estelle Erasmus P ’27

WRITING THAT GETS NOTICED: FIND YOUR VOICE, BECOME A BETTER STORYTELLER, GET PUBLISHED

New World Library , June 2023

Writing and getting published can be daunting. Countless people write personal essays, articles, and hybrid essay-articles and know they produce great material but can’t figure out how to package it to capture the hard-to-get attention of assigning editors. Writing That Gets Noticed is for them. Author Estelle Erasmus, an NYU professor and former Writer’s Digest columnist, knows from experience that inspiring success stories do happen: Stephanie Land’s viral

essay in Vox led to her bestselling memoir, Maid, while Amy Krouse Rosenthal’s New York Times

“Modern Love” essay prompted a lucrative film rights bidding war. In real-world, experiencebased chapters, Erasmus coaches writers to: mine their lives for ideas and incubate those ideas; hone their singular, personal voice; choose the perfect format for their story; research publications and editor etiquette; craft a pitch-perfect pitch; protect their psyche from rejection; and deliver what they promised after they get the assignment.

Brooke Shields ’83

PRETTY BABY

Hulu, April 2023

This two-part documentary follows actor, model, and icon Brooke Shields as she becomes a woman who discovers her power after being a sexualized young girl. She shows the dangers and triumphs of gaining agency in a hostile world.

Editor’s Note: In the previous edition of Bulldog Bookshelf we attributed the wrong class year to the late George P. Shultz ESB ’38. Shultz is the subject of a biography, In the Nation’s Service: The Life and Times of George P. Shultz by Philip Taubman, which was featured in the “Worth Reading: Books about D-E Alumni” column. We regret the error.

f

of Roberta Schwartz P ’87, ’90, see page 12.

In Remembrance of Roberta Schwartz P ’87, ’90: Beloved Faculty Member and Parent

f Long-time D-E faculty member Roberta Schwartz passed away on June 5, 2023, after a hard-fought battle with cancer. Roberta taught in the D-E Science Department for 33 years, from 1979 until 2012, and then worked part-time as the Advisor for the D-E Senior Focus Program from 2012 to 2020. A parent, wife, sister, daughter, and grandmother, Roberta leaves behind many who loved her, including daughter Janet Schwartz ’87 and son Daniel Schwartz ’90.

In a message shared with the school, Daniel offered words of tribute to his late mother. Daniel hopes people will honor the memory of his mother with positive actions.

“Talented singer, musician, and painter, she was an early pioneer forging a path in science and biology before it was ‘acceptable’ and refusing to cower before those who told her she couldn’t,” he wrote. “She ultimately dedicated her professional life to teaching science and biology and became a mentor, friend, advocate, and passionate teacher to multiple generations of her extended family at the Dwight-Englewood School… Dwight-Englewood was far more than a job for her. Dwight was an extended family where she met the best friends of her life.”

“In lieu of cards or flowers, please donate, spend some time, or advocate for women and girls pursuing their dream of science, education, and biology.”

During Roberta’s hospice, former students, colleagues, and other friends were invited to write to her. Dozens did so, providing remembrances about specific memories and moments in the classroom, praising the warm, supportive, fun learning environment she created, or the remarking upon Roberta’s passion for teaching and her innovations, such as the famous “Baby Egg” program. Many called her their favorite or best teacher, and some noted that her class laid the foundation for careers in medicine or other science-related fields.

Below are a few excerpts from the many messages of gratitude, love, and support for Roberta from the D-E community. Sincere thanks to all who responded to the request for these letters.

“I remember Mrs. Schwartz fondly as one of my favorite teachers. I hope she knows how much she touched the lives of all her students, so much that now in my 50’s I still remember and appreciate her.”

Ginny Perez ’85

“Your passion for biology was infectious and you started me on the path towards becoming the doctor I am today. I am so grateful to have been your student and I know without a doubt that the sentiment is shared by many, many others.”

Lauren Acinapura ’96

“Ms. Schwartz taught me AP Bio over 20 years ago, and I still have only the happiest and fondest memories of that time. That class spurred for me a deep love of biology that I still carry with me today (I am a veterinarian, and I doubt I would have pursued veterinary school without that foundational love of biology). But on top of the fantastic education Ms. Schwartz gave me, I also remember her for being so incredibly warm, nurturing, and insightful. She always made me feel seen and respected. I was truly blessed to have Ms. Schwartz as a teacher.”

Amy Green Adelman ’02

A celebration to honor Roberta’s legacy is scheduled for Saturday, September 30, 2023, from 1 to 4 p.m. at Hulst House in Leggett Hall. Questions regarding the service may be directed to Maria Sanchez Gardner ’78, Director of Alumni Relations, at sanchm@d-e.org.

The Heritage Club

A Planned Giving Program for the Dwight-Englewood Community

4 Important Ways You Can Ensure Your Family’s Financial Security

One way you can help ensure financial security for your loved ones during your lifetime is to make gifts of up to $17,000 per loved one per year free of federal gift tax.

When planning your estate, here are four strategies:

1. Save federal estate tax for your loved ones. If your estate is large enough to be subject to federal estate taxes, your gift to us can result in estate-tax savings that significantly reduces the impact on the inheritances of your loved ones.

2. Save income tax for your loved ones. If you give IRA funds to your loved ones, they will in most cases have to pay income tax on their inheritance. Instead, use the IRA funds for your philanthropy and give other assets to your loved ones.

3. Provide income for your loved ones. You can make an estate gift to us that first provides income for life or a term of years for one or more loved ones.

4. Provide income and security for your spouse. You can set up a special charitable trust in which your spouse not only receives the trust income but also has access to the principal if needed.

The Heritage Club is the planned giving society of Dwight-Englewood School. To learn more, visit: d-e.giftplans.org or contact Dawn Lozada at lozadd@d-e.org or (201) 227-3112.

You can set up a fund that helps Dwight-Englewood School’s students now and far into the future.

Alumni Power Breakfast with Class of 2023

f In late May as our Class of 2023 Seniors were preparing for Commencement and beyond, the D-E Alumni Office gathered a group of seasoned alumni to talk about different career paths, professional fields, and “talk shop”! In a speed-dating fashion, groups of seniors went from alum-to-alum, learning what they could about their career goals and journeys. In our cohort of esteemed alumni we had entrepreneurs like Craig Dubitsky ’83 and John Peters ’83, fine art and media professionals like Catherine Miller ’94 and Nicole Fromer ’12, and more to talk with our D-E students. The seniors asked thoughtful questions, making the most of their time with the alumni.

It was a short but jam-packed session of sharing stories and insight! Thanks to our gracious D-E alumni for passing on the wisdom!

Group photo above from left to right: Catherine Miller ’94, Andrea Palacios Aranguren ’01, Sara Pullman ’06, Dr. Stacy Jacobs ’93, Erica Leigh Fields ’97, Joseph Gothelf ’00, Alex Gilman ’11, Laura Zaks Hernández ’95, Baraka Stubbs ’99, Beth Thomas Cohen ’94, Nicole Fromer ’12, Jake Rosen ’12, Joe Stetson ’93, John Peters ’83, & Craig Dubitsky ’83

Young

Alumni BBQ and Class of 2022

Walkway Dedication

f On June 1, 2023, we welcomed young alumni from the Class of 2020, 2021, & 2022 to a summer barbeque––with a great turn out from our Class of 2022! The young alumni had a blast catching up with old friends, revisiting faculty, and meeting then-new Head of School Jeremy Gregersen. While on campus they were able to admire the 2022 Class Gift: The Class of 2022 Walkway by the Imperatore Library. It was a wonderful gathering!

Alumni @ D-E Events Highlights

Leon Di Leone

“Soundbooth Dedication” Event

f After the theatrical premiere of Willy Wonka JR, D-E community members gathered together in the Schenck Auditorium Lobby to celebrate Leon Di Leone, our Technical Director of Theatre Facilities for the past 44 years! In his tenure, he has brought 130 productions to the stage: 44 Fall Plays, 41 Middle School Plays, & 44 Winter Musicals. From sound, lighting, to carpentry, Leon’s wisdom has led countless students to theatrical success. Those who have known him long enough know that he is not a fan of the spotlight; however, given his retirement this year, a special commemoration was due for the work Leon has done for D-E.

D-E friends and faculty presented Leon with a plaque to dedicate the soundbooth in his name, along with a beautiful illustrated portrait by visual arts faculty member Paul Edwards. Finally, Leon was surprised by several former D-E stage crew members and faculty. After the soundbooth dedication, the alumni stayed back with Leon to reminisce on old memories and times, finding their handwritten signatures in Schenck’s backstage still visible. It was a heartfelt moment for Leon, alumni, and D-E! Cheers to 44 years of theatre magic.

Fun Fact: Over 57,630 people have seen a show for which Leon was the Technical Director—an incredible number!

Bulldog Bash 2023

f Thank you for an incredible turnout at the Bulldog Bash 2023! The D-E Community joined together in a big way to “go for the gold” for financial aid. Parents, alumni, faculty, staff, and friends danced “through the D-Ecades” in Manhattan on April 29 to raise more than $600,000 for financial aid! And a special thank you to our Legacy Family parents and guardians, for being involved in the Bash Committee, attending the event, and generous support overall. Cheers to D-E and supporting our community! Save the Date for Bulldog Bash 2024 on April 27!

Alumni Alerts

Congratulations to 2023 Alumni Awardees!

f The following alumni will be honored in the Reunion 2023 Distinguished Alumni Awards Ceremony. Plan to join us for these milestone events and celebrate fellow classmates in October!

Donald L. Baker ESB ’53

Specializing in antitrust, competition policy, and international law issues, Mr. Baker is a former Assistant Attorney General for the Antitrust Division of the U.S. Department of Justice and founding partner of Baker & Miller PLLC.

Robert Lane ’73

Robert Lane, Senior Fellow for Urban Design at Regional Plan Association, directs the Centers Program which is devoted to combating sprawl and promoting compact, transit-oriented development. He is currently working on the city of Englewood’s Master Plan.

f The following also will be honored during Reunion 2023 as the newest inductees into the D-E Athletic Hall of Fame.

The D-E 1993 Boys’ Basketball Team

State prep champions in 1993. Won 18 of their last 19 games to win the title. Beat Wardlaw Hartridge in the title game. Led by seniors Derek Frank ‘93 (Hall of Fame inductee) and David Berkowitz ‘93 (now Berk- HOF nominee) the team won 18 of their last 19 games to win the state championship. The team was coached by former D-E Athletic Director and Coach Tom Curry

Emily

Linn ’08

Emily’s golf accomplishments included posting the second-lowest individual stroke average among all players … posted a pair of top-five finishes … finishing second overall at the rainshortened ECAC Division I Championships with a 75 in the first round and a 37 on the final nine holes before the event was halted … achieving medal honors at the Lady Blue Devils Shootout, an 18-hole tri-match with Central Connecticut and Fairfield … finishing that single round event carding a 78 … shooting her lowest individual

round as a collegian in the second round of the Rutger’s Invitational in the fall with a one-over par 73 … closing out the year with a sixth-place finish at the 2011 MAAC Championship at Disney’s Magnolia Course, earning All-League honors. Emily has also coached D-E’s Girls’ Golf Team for several years.

Julia Schneider ’08

Julia is the embodiment of the athlete-scholar at Dwight-Englewood School. She was a 3-sport athlete at D-E (Soccer, Basketball, & Softball). In January 2007, she was the Bergen Record Athlete of the Week for scoring her 1,000th point in basketball. She was the first D-E female basketball player to reach that milestone. Her basketball career point total is 1,594, which still stands as the highest career point total for girls’ basketball at D-E. Julia also was honored by being named to the All Bergen County basketball 2nd team in 2007-2008

GIVE BACK… TO THE FUTURE!

May 10-19, 2023

260 DONORS REACHED We

did it!

Thank you to every donor and supporter of the Give Back to… The Future Alumni Annual Fund Challenge!

260 alumni donors reached, 4 match challenges met, and more than $100,000 raised to support current and future students at D-E from May 10-19.

On May 17, we celebrated our first-ever virtual Alumni Spirit Day on our Dwight-Englewood School Alumni Facebook Group. We received incredible submissions from alumni (and their furry friends too) showing their D-E spirit from both near and far.

Special shoutout to the Top 3 Performing Class Years!

CLASS OF 1978, 23.2% CLASS OF 2022, 12.1% CLASS OF 1993, 9.6%

Scan the QR Code to see the final Alumni Class Leaderboard results

CHEERS to D-E's Summer Merch Sale!

The D-E Epstein Family School Store clearance sale is underway now! Visit d-e.org/shop to get your merchandise inlcuding: apparel, housewares, gifts and more!

Visit Dwight-Englewood Epstein Family School Store by visiting d-e.org/shop

Don't delay, limited quantities available!

Archival Yearbooks Available!

There is a limited number of surplus yearbooks for Dwight, ESB and D-E classes 1940 to 2022 available for sale. The cost is $35 per yearbook which includes the cost of shipping. Please contact Maria Sanchez Gardner, Director of Alumni Relations, at sanchm@d-e.org or call 201-227-3111.

Dwight-Englewood School REUNION 2023

For all alumni with major milestone celebrations for class years ending with 3 and 8

OCTOBER 13-15, 2023

PRELIMINARY SCHEDULE AS OF SEPTEMBER 1, 2023*

Friday, October 13

TIME EVENT LOCATION

5:30 PM TO 7:30 PM

Welcome Back Alumni Reception: beer, wine and appetizers. Cash bar for mixed drinks.

7:00 PM Dwight and ESB Classes of 1973 50th Reunion Dinner hosted by D-E

Giovanni’s Bicycle Club in Englewood Cliffs

Hajjar STEM Center

VARIOUS TIMES Major Reunion Private Class Parties Off Campus

Saturday, October 14

Full Day of Activities, including private class gatherings and memorials. There will be tours of campus led by student tour guides.

TIME EVENT LOCATION

11:00 AM Retired Faculty Classroom Dedications

Recognizing the following: Elizabeth Carson, Carole DeVito, Doris Tannenbaum

1:30 PM Annual Alumni/Student People of Color (BIPOC) Gathering

2:30 PM Girls Varsity Soccer game vs. Tenafly High School

4:30 PM Distinguished Alumni Award Ceremony

Recognizing the following: Donald L. Baker ESB ’53, Robert Lane ESB ’73

Lunch Reception to follow in Imperatore Library

Blackwell Room Imperatore Library

Solomon Field

Hajjar Auditorium

5:00 PM

Athletic Hall of Fame Ceremony

Recognizing the following: Emily Linn ’08, Julia Schneider ’08, D-E 1993 Boys’ Basketball team

5:30 PM - 8:00 PM Alumni-Faculty Reunion Reception (All Classes)

Hajjar Auditorium

Leggett Field Tent

8:30 PM Major Reunion Private Class Parties Off Campus TBD

Sunday, October 15 Major Reunion Private Class Parties TBD

*Schedule subject to change.

Register Now before October 7th at d-e.org/reunion or Scan the QR Code

For the most current information about Reunion 2023 including any major reunion class parties, please contact Class Reps or the Alumni Office, or scan the QR code.

Classes 1938 to 1989 Classes 1990 to 2023 Maria Sanchez Gardner ’78 Liz Iannaconi ’04 sanchm@d-e.org iannae@d-e.org (201) 227-3111 (201) 227-3114 c. 1973 c. 2023 315 EAST PALISADE AVENUE ENGLEWOOD, NJ 07631

Scan QR CODE or go to www.d-e.org/reunion for information about registration, blocked hotel rooms, campus map, etc.

with major celebrations for class years ending with 3 and 8 October 13 – October 15, 2023