Pages, The Far Hills Magazine, Graduation 2022 Edition by Far Hills Country Day School

GRADUATION | 2022

In late 1939, my grandmother and her five children went to Leonidion, Greece, for what was supposed to be a cultural immersion and adventure of a lifetime. Many years ago, in a different era, communication was vastly different, and world news traveled slowly. Without any major warning (while World War II escalated), my mother’s village in Greece was invaded by Germany in 1941. At that time, the only way out of this nightmare was through Egypt (with no guarantee of survival). Ultimately, my brave grandmother, at age 31, with her five children, ages 5 through 12, chose to stay in their village—occupying only one part of their spacious home, which became the Nazi headquarters in that part of Greece. My mom, at age 10, learned to clean and knit for the Nazi soldiers. With no formal schooling due to the war, she completed lessons and readings independently. I realize that is why she values formal education so much—it was something she lost during wartime. For three years, as a child, she witnessed the horror of war and a childhood devastated by world unrest and tragedy. By October of 1944, Greece was liberated from Nazi rule. Miraculously, at the end of the war, my mother, her siblings, and my grandmother returned safely to the United States after almost a month-long voyage to New York Harbor. Seeing Lady Liberty looming large, torch in hand, as they returned home is a memory etched in my mom’s mind forever. Remember that the freedom we all enjoy is rather incredible.

Students, parents, grandparents, alumni, teachers, staff, and friends. The pride we have as a community is palpable as we share the joy of this milestone together. Facing the enormous uncertainties and disruptions brought on by the pandemic, the Class of 2022 responded with remarkable determination and resilience. We are so proud of you! It is customary for me to share some words of wisdom with you, and I will do that by looking through the eyes of my greatest role model. I know many of you look to your parents, mentors, teachers, and adults in your life for support, love, and accountability. This is important to do as it grounds you and helps you to understand the power of family and relationships. As some of you may know, my mother is a great source of inspiration to me. You may hear me share stories of her life on a regular basis. She is a proud independent woman who still lives on her own in the house where she raised four children while married for almost 60 years. Since 1953, she has lived on Long Island and has a full life that inspires those around her.

To understand why my mom, Connie Spiliotes (affectionately known as Yia Yia), is just that amazing, I share a few things to give you some context. My mom was born in 1931, before washing machines, interstate highways, space exploration, cell phones, and the internet—just to name a few. While born in the United States, English was not her first language; Greek was. Her father, my grandfather, was a proud immigrant from Greece in the early 1900s. As a result, my grandfather felt it important for his family to learn the language and culture of his homeland.

2 | FAR HILLS MAGAZINE | INWARD, OUTWARD, UPWARD | HEAD START FOREVERFACULTYAWARDSHEADNOTEWORTHYSTART3REMARKSFROMGEORGIAS.ZAISERANDMATRICULATION10DISTINGUISHEDAWARDSANDMATRICULATIONNEWSNEWS22NOTABLEACHIEVEMENTSFALCONS27INMEMORIAM HEAD START Graduation Ceremony Remarks from Head of School Georgia S. Zaiser GRADUATIONFEATURED20226LEADERS&ACHIEVERS Celebrating the Far Hills journey and the beginning of the next chapter with grandeur and glee ABOUT PAGES Pages is published biannually by the Strategic Marketing and Communications Department for alumni, parents, and friends of Far Hills Country Day School. Please direct comments or questions to pages@fhcds.org. To contribute notices of weddings, births, and personal and professional accomplishments, please send an email to alumni@fhcds.org. Thank you to Becky Bedrosian, graduation ceremony photographer. Designed by Allison Curry Design, LLC. ON OUR COVER: Class of 2022 graduate Ella Petillo listens as faculty member and advisor Roseanne Panico reads her reflections during the Ninety-Second Annual Commencement Ceremony held on June 10, 2022. PERSPECTIVESHIGHLIGHTS5THESTORYONTHE CLASS OF 2022: CASPAR VON HOLLEN, STUDENT GOVERNMENT VICE PRESIDENT SPRING HAPPENINGS 12 FIELD DAY 18 ADVENTURE TRIPS 21 LOWER ThePASSINGCLOSINGSCHOOLEXERCISESTHETORCH24MESSAGESFROMOUTGOINGANDINCOMINGBOARDCHAIRSClassof2022:

Continued on next page u PAGES | GRADUATION | 3

In this small community, whether at the library, hair salon, or supermarket, my mom is legendary, with rich stories and great wisdom to share.

Front row, left to right: Amelia Welsh; Ella Petillo; Eleanor “Ellie” Cusimano; Sahara Muhammad; Ifayola “Ifa” Adewole; Gemma Cafasso; Maria Liriano; Gavin Godfrey-Ryan; Cameron Weil; Hannah Castiglione; and Josselyn Wolf. Second row up, left to right: Blake Evans; Theodore “Theo” Grippo; Michael Paragano; Benjamin “Ben” Adamo; Avery Hansen; Chloe Valentine; Gianna Previdi; Jenny Villagra; Tara Nash; Jacob Zentner; Edvin Korpela; Tyler Mo; and Phillip John Cichlar. Third row up, left to right: Brandon Wood; Michael Antonelli; Caspar von Hollen; Nathaniel “Nate” Lawton; James “Jimmy” Gibbons; Parker Reuben; Jackson Croce; Luke Antoneck; Brady Morais; and Winston Valentine. Top row, left to right: Xian “Clarence” Wu; Colin Brucker; Titus Welsh; Gavin O’Hare; Edward “Wilder” Merton; Charles “Charlie” Fernandez; and Zachary “Zach” Freed.

CONTENTS

Being a Far Hills student has shaped our lives in ways that we might not appreciate until later in life. This is a special place, and we take pieces of Far Hills with us as we head off to our high schools. Though we are going away to schools both near and far, our memories and the characters shaped by our years at Far Hills are coming with us.

So even though this is Graduation and the end of our time as students on this campus, I don’t think this is the end of the story— I think it’s the beginning of a new chapter. One in which we embrace what it means to carry Far Hills with us. We acknowledge that our characters, motivations, and passions have all been influenced by our time at Far Hills and will now go with us to our high schools, where we will write new stories. Thank you to all of those people who made our journey possible and that supported us to this day:

"We acknowledge that our characters, motivations, and passions have all been influenced by our time at Far Hills and will now go with us to our high schools, where we will write new stories."

To our parents and families for their support, for their love, and for their nonstop driving to events on campus—thank you.

As I look back on my nine years at Far Hills, I realize there are too many memories to put into words. If all of my memories of school were written down, the book would be thousands of pages long. Like with any story, there is a beginning, a middle, and an end, and I’d like to take you through the story of the Class of 2022.

To the faculty and staff for their careful guidance through our academics, their laughter, and of course, their patience with us throughout the years—thank you.

Congratulations to the Class of 2022. May we always remember our Falcon spirit and the wonderful memories we had together. Thank you.

2. Be kind. My mother’s kindness never wavers. She had plenty of reasons to be hateful and bitter, but her belief that kindness matters over all else has been a grounding force in her life (and mine). Think before you speak, act, post, or share. Do something kind each day for someone. It is good for the heart and mind.

In the beginning, there was Lower School. There were large projects at the end of each year, field trips, and friends. Our days were filled with art, spelling, math, time at the playground, snacks, and music. Our Lower School years were also a time to enjoy questioning the world and exploring continents, states, animals, plants, and the world around us. It felt like it would go on forever, and we hoped it would. Even then, we knew Far Hills was a special place. Then came the shift to Upper School, the middle of our story. In Grades 5 through 7, Adventure Trips were a blur of whale watching, museums, ice cream, bonfires, handball in cabins, tetherball, Field Day, the pond project, Frost Valley, and a broken-down bus resulting in lunch at a diner on the side of a highway. Though COVID interrupted the usual flow, Far Hills remained open, and we bonded with our cohorts—playing games and eating lunch together, watching entire television shows, and just bonding in a way that may never have been possible without the cohort experience. Our friends and teachers made these years memorable, and though it still felt that this time would last forever, it also seems to have passed by so quickly. And then came this past year, the end. Our final year here at Far Hills. At first, it felt like any other year—the same subjects, but maybe a bit more responsibility. Dances, clubs, sports, hikes, service projects, our class trip, Expo, and final exams all stood out this year. Our friends made sure that there were plenty of moments of laughter throughout the year, and our teachers kept us focused on our goals while taking time to appreciate who each of us is as a person. And now, here we are at Graduation. But is this really the end of our Far Hills story? Our memories of this place, these people, and each other will never be forgotten. Our time here and those we are connected with will forever be important to us.

3. Stay positive and be grateful. Through the depths of despair during World War II and the extended illness of my father, my mother learned how to look to the future, make plans, and set goals. Take time to think about your mindset each day. What is your mindset? Your actions and attitudes impact all of those around you. Remember now how fortunate we are and that the possibilities are endless as you leave this school for your next adventure. These three key pieces of advice will help guide you to be your best self. Take them with you and keep them at the forefront of your mind. Graduates, your strength of character continues to develop and form throughout your young adulthood. Over time and through various experiences at school and home, it will be shaped and molded. Every day at Far Hills, we teach lessons about acting with integrity and speaking with honesty, and being a kind and responsible community member. Our Five Pillars have cemented the foundation of your Far Hills education. Be careful not to focus your energy solely on grades, standardized test scores, and athletic and artistic measures of achievement. Because more and more, you will realize that character truly matters So as you leave your Far Hills “home,” remember to speak with honesty, think with sincerity, and act with integrity. Don’t forget to take risks, be kind, and stay positive. This, Class of 2022, will serve you well in high school and beyond. As Yia Yia would say in Greek, ke-ah-no-te-rah—meaning, go higher. Congratulations to the Class of 2022. We are so very proud of each and every one of you and know you will soar to new heights in the next chapter of your Cheerslife!to our graduates, and thank you.

To our friends and classmates, for all the small and large moments that we take with us and the countless hours of fun we have had together—thank you.

1. Take a risk. It was my mom who supported (more than I did) my son’s wish to attend boarding school. She said to let him take a risk to see how it played out. You never want to regret a missed opportunity. Try new things, make new friends, and get out of your comfort zone. Seize the moment to do something different, you may surprise yourself.

Georgia S. Zaiser Head of School

THE STORY OF THE CLASS OF 2022 FAREWELL ADDRESS BY CASPAR VON HOLLEN

So, at age 91, my mother lived through war, raised her own large family, finally received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees at age 58, and cared for my father with dementia for almost a decade. Her perspective on life (as she knows her time is somewhat limited) is refreshing and insightful. Today, I share with you some of her best advice I have collected over the years as a daughter, mother, teacher, sister, wife, and friend.

Gavin Godfrey-Ryan

“Ellie”

Evans

Croce

Jackson

Michael Antonelli

Gemma

Blake

Grippo

“Ben” Adamo PAGES | GRADUATION | 7 Zachary “Zach” Freed

CharlesFernandez“Charlie”

Theodore “Theo”

Benjamin

Philip John Cichlar

James “Jimmy” Gibbons

“Ifa” Adewole

Ifayola

Luke Antoneck

The Class of 2022 is made up of students who are resilient, determined, and hard-working. Not only are they dedicated to their academics, but they’re also committed to creating long-standing relationships with their peers and the community. These students have made their mark individually, but also together as a class. They have proven to be leaders to both the Upper and Lower Schools, singing on the stage, running on the fields, and volunteering in various philanthropic efforts that benefit our many community partners. Each student has uncovered their passions and put forth their best effort to be well-rounded students. The entire Falcon community can’t wait to watch as they succeed at their secondary schools and in life.

6 | FAR HILLS MAGAZINE | INWARD, OUTWARD, UPWARD FEATURED: LEADERS & ACHIEVERS | | FEATURED: LEADERS & ACHIEVERS

Cafasso

Hansen

Eleanor Cusimano

Colin Brucker

Avery

Hannah Castiglione

PAGES | GRADUATION | 98 | FAR HILLS MAGAZINE | INWARD, OUTWARD, UPWARD | FEATURED: LEADERS & ACHIEVERSFEATURED: LEADERS & ACHIEVERS | Xian “Clarence” Wu Jacob Zentner Amelia Welsh Titus Welsh Brandon WoodJosselyn Wolf Winston Valentine Jenny Villagra Cameron WeilCaspar von Hollen Ella Petillo Gianna Previdi Sahara Muhammad Tara Nash Maria Liriano Edward “Wilder” Merton Parker Reuben Chloe Valentine Michael ParaganoGavin O’Hare Brady MoraisTyler Mo Nathaniel “Nate” LawtonEdvin Korpela

Left to right: Sharif, Jennifer, and Sahara Muhammad with Director of Upper School Emily Seelaus. Sahara was recognized for her outstanding academic achievements during the Class of 2022 Green and White Dinner.

Chloe Valentine '22 hugs Director of Upper School Emily Seelaus as she receives The Mimi McDonnell Memorial Award.

Outstanding Female Athlete Recipients Gemma Cafasso (pictured left) and Eleanor Cusimano (pictured middle), alongside Coach Ron Sansone (pictured right).

JOHN C. HARTZ SPORTSMANSHIPMALEAWARD Gavin O’Hare and Brandon Wood

OUTSTANDING FEMALE ATHLETE AWARD Gemma Cafasso and Eleanor Cusimano

THE FACULTY AWARD Tyler Mo THE TRUSTEES’ CITIZENSHIP AWARD James Gibbons THE HEAD OF SCHOOL AWARD Josselyn Wolf

THE MIMI MCDONNELL MEMORIAL AWARD Chloe Valentine THE MATTHEW C. BAUMEISTER MENTORSHIP AWARD Phillip John Cichlar

GREEN AND WHITE DINNER

Blair

Left to right: Zach Freed, Caspar von Hollen, Nate Lawton, Clarence Wu, Philip John Cichlar, Edvin Korpela, and Tara Nash were recognized for participation in our extra-curricular music ensembles: Philharmonic or Jazz Band.

LINDA F. HOUGHLAND FEMALE SPORTSMANSHIP AWARD Chloe Valentine and Cameron Weil

North OakHighHunterdonSchoolKnollSchoolof the Holy Child Phillips Exeter Academy The Pingry School Rutgers Preparatory School Villa Walsh Academy Wilbraham & Monson WestAcademyMorris Mendham High School THE CLASS OF 2022 WILL MATRICULATE TO THE FOLLOWING SCHOOLS THIS FALL:

NewarkMosesMorristownKentTheGillGeorgeDelbartonCanterburyAcademySchoolSchoolSchoolSt.Bernard’sSchoolHillSchoolPlaceSchoolBeardSchoolBrownSchoolAcademy HARRISON VALENTINE ‘14 ADDRESSES THE CLASS OF 2022 AT GREEN & WHITE DINNER Scan the QR code to read more from the speech deliveredHarrisontotheClassof2022.

On June 8, 2022, our Grade 8 students and their parents gathered for the presentation of academic awards, the recognition of families who are graduating from the school, and the celebration of signature moments that marked the Class of 2022’s journey, including the famous Grade 8 slideshow showing students over the years here at Far Hills. It was a spectacular night celebrating our graduates.

Edward “Wilder” Merton addressing the audience at Graduation and announcing the Class of 2022 Legacy Gift: a fountain for the pond on campus.

CLASS OF DISTINGUISHED2022 AWARDS ART AWARD Jenny Villagra BETTY NOLING AWARD Cameron Weil HISTORY AWARD Josselyn Wolf MATH AWARD Xian Wu MUSIC AWARD Nathaniel Lawton SCIENCE AWARD Jossselyn Wolf WORLD LANGUAGES AWARD Caspar von Hollen WRITING ACHIEVEMENT AWARD Hannah Castiglione RANKING SCHOLAR GRADEAWARDS6Midas Turlik GRADE 7 Jayden Leung GRADE 8 Josselyn Wolf

OUTSTANDING MALE ATHLETE AWARD Michael Antonelli, Charles Fernandez, and Edward Merton

Berkshire School Bernards

“The school has certainly taught us all a lot: from expo projects to the 50-state fair, to general classes and everything in between. But it went far beyond that, at least from my perspective. The biggest thing I’ve noticed is that Far Hills graduates not just scholars, but well-rounded scholars. Good communicators. Sociable. Knowledgeable. People who can hold a conversation and are well-equipped to face any challenge the world decides to throw their way. That foundation was set here. And while many of you go your separate ways after graduation, there is one thing I’d like you to keep in mind, for those feeling unsettled about the future, or making new friends, or starting a new life at a new school: your friends in this room will still be your friends—in my case, eight years later. In fact, two of my best friends in the world went to Far Hills with me, and the friendship has only gotten stronger.” High School

Field Day is more than winning; it is an opportunity to see FH students exude characteristics of our Five Pillars: Respect, Responsibility, Kindness, Honesty, and Leadership. You will often hear students cheering for their friends on the opposing team. You will see students lending each other a hand when they need it. You will see the excitement when a teammate has success; you will feel the support and encouragement when a teammate comes up short. This is the essence of Far Hills Country Day School’s Field Day: tradition, friends, and most of all, having the best attitude, putting forth the best effort, and being the best teammate!

This year, as a component of our Student Raffle, the Marketing and Communications Team offered an opportunity for a student to be a “Paparazzi for the Day.” The student who won could pick whatever event they wanted to photograph during the school year. The winner was Isabella “Izzy” Antonio, Grade 5 student, and she chose to photograph Field Day. Congratulations, Izzy! You did an amazing job capturing the Falcon spirit at Field Day. Scan the QR code to see a video compilation of the Field Day photos.

TeamCongratulations,Green!

Left to right: Theodore Skala '24, Jackson Previdi '25, and Ryden Maeda '25 focused during the Tug of War. Charlie Fernandez '22 assists Sydney Goldstein '26 at an obstacle at Field Day.

Team Green and Team White united on the fields with our beloved Falcon to kick off Field Day 2022. Robby Plummer '24 clears a hurdle during Field Day. Alumna Lucy Donovan '21 cheered on Team Green during the Tug of War. Ms. Hefferan’s and Ms. Robles’ Kindergarten class poses for a selfie. Back row: Brymm Andrea, Lenox Solimine, Steven Winn, Jordan Doliner, and Brooklyn Sobel. Bottom row: Declan O’Connor, Front: Ms. Robles, Ms. Hefferan. Grade 2 students cheer from the sidelines. Back row: Lily Swartz, Barrett Macomber, Grace Schroeder, Zoe Elberg, and Kiran Lucas. Front row: Violet Welsh.

FIELD DAY FUN

Isabella Antonio, Student Paparazzi Winner

On May 27, 2022, students took to the fields decked out in their team colors, ready for a day of friendly competition and memory-making with their peers. The Falcon spirit radiated from students as they arrived at school decked out in their team colors. Music was blasting, green and white flags were waving, and Grade 8 students set the tone during arrival. The energy and excitement were unmatched!

DOUGLAS “FITZ” KLING JR. '23 TAKES THE SLOPES

Rising Grade 3 student Aria Kane was cast as Young Anna in Disney’s Frozen, the hit broadway musical. She joined their North American tour on May 17, 2022. She’s performed in more than 25 shows so far. She will be on the road through March 5, 2023, traveling for a total of 10 months and to 15 cities! Aria said, “I feel super happy and lucky because being in a Broadway show has been my dream since I was 4 years old. And being a Disney princess has been my dream since I was 2, so this is perfect! This experience has been amazing. I get to go to a bunch of places I’ve never seen. We even got a private tour of the NASA Mission Control Center in Houston! I love the cast because they are so nice and talented and they make me feel so comfortable. It’s like a family. I’ve learned that dreams can come true!”

In Josselyn’s words, “Like most fortunate things, my involvement in wild horse advocacy was sparked by serendipity. My father encountered filmmaker turned wild horse advocate Ashley Avis, now one of my most trusted mentors, by chance at a Breyer convention in 2019. He introduced me to Ashley, and the rest is history. I was astounded to learn about the horrific plight of one of our nation’s most treasured icons as well as the comprehensive issue that surrounds them. The mismanagement of horses and burros degradates the ecological sustainability of Western rangelands, increasingly wastes hundreds of millions of taxpayer funds, exposes the hypocrisy of democracy’s transparency, and ultimately inflicts unnecessary brutality on a creature, similar to humans in many of its characteristics, with the primary purpose of appeasing livestock monopolies. Through my role as Youth Ambassador for Ashley’s Wild Beauty Foundation, I have had the privilege to interact with brilliant minds collaborating to correct a dysfunctional system. Recently I utilized Far Hills’ Expo opportunity to explore this issue to new depths and was able to attend the inaugural Save Our Wild Horses Conference in Washington D.C. (To view my PSA from that conference, search “The Wild Beauty Foundation” on your social media platforms or peruse their blog.) Through these educational experiences, I have absorbed one encapsulating kernel of truth: horses and burros, along with other Western wildlife, have been scapegoated for too long. I feel fortunate to play a small part in illuminating this injustice.”

FAR HILLS FALCON TO BLAIR ACADEMY BUCCANEER James “Jimmy” Gibbons '22 has been named the 2022 recipient of the Blair Academy Far Hills Country Day School Endowed Scholarship Prize. The Endowment Scholarship Prize benefits a Grade 8 Far Hills student who has been accepted and has committed to attend Blair Academy. This is not a scholarship that requires students to apply individually; the recipient is a student who is selected based on various criteria. Jimmy's superlative academic record, combined with his character and commitment to serving others, made him a standout candidate for the prize this year.

u What school are you attending in the fall? Canterbury School in CT u What’s your favorite subject to study? Math and Science u What is your favorite Far Hills memory? Grade 7 playing DnD [Dungeons & Dragons] with the boys and the Adirondaks trip.

Xian “Clarence” Wu ˇ22 received the Far Hills Country Day School Math Award this year. We asked Clarence some questions about his incredible talent in Math.

STUDENT NEWS

u Do you have any idea what career you want to pursue in the future? Definitely engineer, not sure which type yet (software or hardware, or maybe nuclear). u Who has been your mentor with math? Ms. Lin in Grade 6, Ms. Sturgeon in Grade 7. In addition to some other extracurricular math classes (mostly online). u What is your accomplishmentbiggestsofar with math competitions or math in general? I was in the top 5% at AMC8 last year; this year's results are not yet in. u What is your dream math competition to compete in? International Math Olympics (IMO). u What do you love most about math? The ah-ha moments after solving a question or after finding a possible solution for the question, the challenge is pretty fun also.

JOSSELYN WOLF ‘22 NAMED WILD BEAUTY FOUNDATION YOUTH AMBASSADOR

ARIA KANE '28 AS “YOUNG ANNA” IN DISNEY’S FROZEN BROADWAY MUSICAL

Every weekend, Fitz skis/trains for the Stratton Winter Sports Club. His club competes with six other mountain/ academy schools throughout southern Vermont. Most races are Slalom and Giant Slalom (GS). The race he participated in on Feb 27, 2022, was a Super G. This was his very first time skiing this kind of high velocity (scary for parents!) race, and he placed seventh! It is a big deal to compete against so many talented and hardworking athletes, many of whom are full-time boarding students who train seven days a week.

u We were also told you have some interesting hobbies. Can you tell us about them? Math (the ah-ha moments, to be exact), being a nerd, running (long-distance, which is very relaxing after completion but exhausting while running).

u We were told you have participated in a number of competitions this year. Which ones? Math league, AMC8, and AMC10. I won Math Leagues Nationals and got relatively good scores on AMC8, though didn’t make it to AIME.

Scan the QR code to read more from the distributed press release.

GET TO KNOW THIS YEAR’S MATH AWARD WINNER, XIAN “CLARENCE” WU '22

Josselyn Wolf ˇ22 pictured left with Ashley Avis. Photographed here (left to right): Teddy Wenner, Blair Academy Dean of Admission; Ed Thompson, Far Hills Country Day School Director of Operations and Secondary School Placement; Susan Gibbons; James “Jimmy” Gibbons; David Gibbons; Georgia S. Zaiser, Far Hills Country Day School Head of School; and Peter G. Curran, Blair Academy Head of School.

On May 19, 2022, Grade 8 students presented their Expo presentations to faculty, staff, alumni, family, and fellow students. Students develop a ten-week independent research study on a self-selected topic for this capstone project. These students were well-prepared and did an amazing job.

On May 12, 2022, Grade 2 presented their Coming to America: The Immigrant Experience Capstone Project to their family, faculty, staff, and peers in the school. This cross-curricular project runs for the duration of the school year. These students worked so hard, and it showed.

Proud parent moment: Falcon Dad and Board member Mike Morais takes a photo of son Brady Morias '22 next to his Expo presentation. @FAR_HILLS_SCHOOLINSTAGRAM.

On May 24, 2022, our Grade 5 students participated in a full day of activities on campus for their signature Whale Project. Students worked diligently during this month-long academic endeavor. During the day’s activities, they listened to a presentation by 7 Seas Whale Watch, featuring a 40' inflatable replica of Nile, a living humpback whale, they participated in a coding activity with Dash robots, and they presented their final whale presentations to classmates, family, and friends.

On April 29, 2022, our Grade 3 students presented their Adventure America projects to their family, faculty, staff, and their peers in the school. Adventure America is a highlight of the third-grade experience. Students select one of the 50 United States to study. Through this long-term research project, they practice and develop many of our mission skills. Students produce various writing, including two full-length informative reports, one about the geography and climate of their state and another about a landmark. The project concludes with the presentation of their research.

SIGNATURE WHALE PROJECT

GRADE3 ADVENTURE AMERICA

FH Head of School Georgia S. Zaiser engaged in deep conversation with Ifayola “Ifa” Adewole '22 about her Expo topic, Discrimination’s Effect on Black Women’s Health.

GRADE5 GRADE4

GRADEK “I WONDER”

GRADE8

FH teacher Kathryn Brower listens as Tyler Mo '22 presents his Grade 8 Expo about Future Technology in Space Exploration.

GRADE1 EXPO On June 2, 2022, our Grade 1 students presented their Expo projects. This cross-curricular project involves research, writing, map building, and the creation of a 3D model of the animal they researched. It all comes together at the Expo, where students head to the podium to read their research papers to an audience of loved ones. This impressive group knocked our socks off with their creativity, hard work, and confidence.

EXPO

These are just a sample set of questions from our Kindergarteners as they presented their “Wonder Projects” to their classmates, faculty and staff, and family and friends on June 6, 2022. For this project, students develop an “I wonder” research the topic by interviewing other students, faculty, or staff members, gather, assess, and prioritize the new knowledge to then stand up at a podium and proudly deliver this information and educate the audience.

EXPO On May 26, 2022, our Grade 4 students participated in their culminating Lower School Project, The Grade 4 Expo. Preparation for the Expo begins within the first few weeks of school and is built upon as the school year evolves. Being that this is a cross-curricular project, students work on this throughout all of their classes throughout the year.

GRADE2 COMING TO AMERICA: THE IMMIGRANT EXPERIENCE CAPSTONE PROJECT

What fish live in the Indian Ocean? How do people make cement? Why do bees like honey? What is the oldest still-living animal? How do trees make oxygen? Why are flamingos pink?

Left to right: Ms. Petrie proudly watches as Aariv Parekh '30 presents his “I Wonder”: What is the oldest still-living animal?

Steven Winn '30 presenting his “I Wonder”: How do reptiles develop scales, and what are scales for? David Solimine '94 videoing taping son Lenox '30 for his “I Wonder” presentation: How does a Ferrari go so fast?

SEE MORE PHOTOS ON FACEBOOK @FHCDS AND ON

GRADE LEVEL PROJECTS

PEEC advances environmental education, sustainable living, and appreciation for nature through hands-on experience in a national park. While away, students participated in various team-building activities, astronomy, canoeing, group hikes during the day and night, watershed study, orienteering, and pond ecology.

Left: Gianna Previdi '22 zipping down the zip line during the outdoor adventure ropes course. Top: A group of Grade 8 students poses for a photo at the peak of a mountain they climbed. Bottom: Parker Reuben '22 navigating one of the high elements on the outdoor adventure ropes course.

GRADE 6 WENT TO FROST VALLEY

Bottom: Mary Cafasso '24 (left) and Charlotte Meyer '24 (right) stopping for a selfie mid-hike.

Top right: Jayden Leung '23, Casper Hao, Oliver Ridder '23, Emilio Gomez '23, Walker van Rooyen '23, Anthony Zhuang '23, Sean Bernard '23, James Li '23, Cole Jasinkiewicz '23, Michael Greco '23, and Dylan McCarthy '23 pose for a photo in front of a waterfall during their hike. Bottom right: A group of Grade 7 students works together to pull Valentina Reale '23 up a wall during a team-building activity. WENT TO POCONO ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION CENTER (PEEC)

While there, students participated in various activities. They hiked in the Adirondacks, participated in an outdoor adventure ropes course, and spent a day at the Olympic Center. Some highlights for the students were bobsledding down the Olympic course, reaching the peak of a mountain, and spending time together as a class before Graduation. To round out the trip, they had dinner at the Whiteface Club with a campfire and s’mores. This four-day trip was a definite highlight for the students and faculty chaperones.

GRADE 7

GRADE 8 WENT TO LAKE PLACID, NY

Left: From left to right: Valentina Reale '23, Laurel Donovan '23, Suri Shah '23, Schuyler Abramson '23, Mia Vartuli '23, Ava Pardilla '23, Grace Curran '23, Gabi Icassati '23, Grace Sameth '23, and Emerson Schroeder '23 pose for a photo before the day's activities.

Frost Valley YMCA is a camping, environmental education, and conferencing center located in Claryville, New York, part of the Catskill Mountains. Students participated in different activities throughout the trip, such as hiking, team building, and archery. While away, students strengthened communication skills and encouraged teamwork among classmates, enhanced creativity skills, and gained first-hand exposure to the interconnectedness of various natural communities. Problem-solving, improving communication, and working with others to achieve a goal were common themes over the few days.

Left: Konrad von Hollen '24 conquering the cargo net bridge during the hike in Frost Valley. Top: A group shot of students posed during their hike in Frost Valley.

Left to right: Rising Grade 5 student Nori Mononia crosses the bridge during the Lower School Closing Exercises. Director of Lower School Pat Barry addresses the crowd during her first Closing Exercises with Far Hills Country Day School. Rising Grade 1 student Kellan Sudler with Rising Grade 5 student Grier van Rooyen.

NINE DEEEZ NITE

Photographed here: Parents Liz Sobel, Tucky Ridder, and Heather Swartz pose at one of our photo walls at Nine Deeez Nite.

SPRING HAPPENINGS

On Friday, May 20, we had over 150 grandparents and special friends in attendance for our Grandparents’ and Special Friends’ Day. They got to participate in classroom discussions, hear our Grade 8 Expo presentations, and listen to our students perform in a concert. Thank you to everyone that helped make our first Grandparents’ and Special Friends’ Day since 2019 such a wonderful experience for our students and their guests.

Photographed here: The entire cast of Beauty and the Beast Jr. SCAN THE QR CODE TO

HEY, LOOK ME OVER

Far Hills Presents (formally The Hills Are Alive) is one of our primary fundraisers at Far Hills, which is held every other year during gala offyears. It is a “night of performance” held on campus in the Performing Arts Center (PAC). On Saturday, April 23, Far Hills Presents Nine Deeez Nite provided a fun throwback to the decade we all grew up with, in one stage or another, the 1990s. Our community understood the assignment and showed up in head-to-toe 90s attire. We’re talking slap bracelets, scrunchies, tracksuits, jelly sandals, varsity jackets, and flannels.

Photographed here: Amy Burns and Maedean Kramer leading students in during the concert portion of Grandparents’ and Special Friends’ Day.

VIEW A PHOTO PERFORMANCES.FROMGALLERYTHE

VIEW A PHOTO

THE PEREGRINE HOUSE PLAYERS PRESENT: BEAUTY AND THE BEAST JR. We are so proud of the Peregrine House Players, our Grades 7 and 8 students who participated in Beauty and the Beast Jr These students put on three incredible show-stopping performances for our entire school, their friends, and families in March. We hope you all enjoyed the performance if you were able to attend, and will join us in counting down the days until our next production!

MOANA JR. On May 25, a variety of Lower School Students performed Moana Jr for family, friends, and their fellow classmates. This play is an enrichment class opportunity that students signed up for. These actors and actresses had the audience laughing, clapping, and dancing in their seats. The talent the students exuded on the stage was incredible. We are so proud of each and every one of them for their hard work and dedication leading up to the performances.

n June 8, 2022, we once again gathered in the Performing Arts Center (PAC) for one of the most beloved year-end traditions at Far Hills. We celebrated the achievements of our Kindergarten–Grade 4 students at the Lower School Closing Exercises. Each grade performed our traditional special rendition of a Broadway show tune that summarizes their school year. The celebration ended with the monumental moment of each student crossing the Far Hills bridge symbolizing their crossing over to the next grade level. Our Grade 4 students were greeted by some of our Grade 5 teachers as they crossed over the bridge for the last time as Lower School students and received their pin to the Kestrel House.

PRESCHOOL YEAR END PROGRAM

Photographed here: Olivia Mishima ˇ26 played Moana in Moana Jr. SCAN THE QR CODE TO

PERFORMANCES.FROMGALLERYTHESCANTHEQRCODETOVIEWAPHOTOGALLERYFROMNINEDEEEZNITE.SCANTHEQRCODETOVIEWAPHOTOGALLERYFROMTHESPECIALDAY.

On June 7, 2022, our Preschool students performed and received certificates at their Preschool Year End Program.

Head of School Georgia Zaiser and Director of Lower School Pat Barry greeting a Preschool student with a smile, handshake, and certificate during the Preschool Year End Program.

Mom Pam Surak proudly takes a photo of daughter Charlotte Surak with her certificate after the Preschool Year End Program.

GRANDPARENTS' AND SPECIAL FRIENDS' DAY

In February, Amy was one of the featured presenters for elementary music at the New Jersey Music Educators Association (NJMEA) state music education conference. She presented three sessions and served on a panel for music technology in the classroom.

Sharing the happy news that Gina Fernicola, our Associate Director of Engagement and Philanthropy, and her husband Joe welcomed a healthy baby boy, Joseph John Fernicola, on Wednesday, July 6, 2022. Big brother Nicholas ˇ33 is excited to have his little brother join the family. CASE INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS ONLINE CONFERENCE

NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS MILESTONE YEARS

2022

CASE-NAIS INDEPENDENT SCHOOL CONFERENCE

WELCOME BABY FERNICOLA!

PRESENTERS 10 YEARS 10 YEARS 10 YEARS 10 YEARS 25 YEARS 25 YEARS 20 YEARS 20 YEARS 25 YEARS

Amy’s book, Using Technology with Elementary Music Approaches was published by Oxford University Press. The book was a finalist in the 2021 American Book Fest Best Book Awards in the Education/Academic Category. Scan the QR code to see it. The book was also a finalist for a BETT Award in the Class Aid or Educator Support Category. A BETT Award is a celebration of excellence in creativity and innovation in the world’s leading showcase of education technology solutions. Scan the QR code to see it.

Brian JungerGemma Keremedijev Maedean KramerRon Sansone Ed Thompson Rachel YuChristina Sopko

PRESENTER Far Hills Country Day School Head of School Georgia S. Zaiser presented “The Power of a Positive Message” alongside Melissa DePino, Principal at the Leapfrog Group, at the CASE-NAIS Independent School Conference in Denver, Colorado, on Sunday, April 3. A case study written by Far Hills and the Leapfrog Group was selected from a multitude of submissions to lead a session during the conference weekend that benefits many professionals in education. This session provided a framework and tactics for creating messaging that will revolutionize how private schools think about and approach work as a marketer or fundraiser and why being “message positive” is not only good for your institution but empowering for you and the entire school community.

Georgia S. Zaiser (left), Far Hills Country Day School Head of School, with her co-presenter Melissa DePino (right), Leapfrog Group Principal. The pair presented “The Power of a Positive Message” at the CASE-NAIS Independent Schools Conference 2022 on Sunday, April 3, 2022, in Denver, Colorado.

AmyScottBurnsFreeman

Additionally, Amy had a new article titled “Keeping Arts Alive in the Ever-Changing Teaching Environment” published in NAIS Independent Teacher's Fall online issue. Scan the QR code to read it.

On February 24, 2022, our Head of School, Georgia S. Zaiser, and Director of Engagement and Philanthropy, Linda Corcoran, presented in a session at the 2022 CASE Independent Schools Online Conference: Welcome to the Family: Helping New Families Acclimate in a K-8 Environment. In the session, they discussed how, in K-8 schools, new families are very often also new to the world of independent schools in general, so the notion of fundraising beyond the cost of tuition can be unfamiliar and intimidating. They discussed how advancement professionals need to approach these families with great care, educating them about the role of philanthropy and its importance in maintaining a robust and thriving educational experience for their children, all by “making an ask.” They shared their experience and successes to help advancement professionals welcome new families and get them involved. Linda CorcoranGeorgia S. Zaiser

Georgia S. Zaiser, our Senior Leadership Team, our faculty, and our Board of Trustees. They have all put in an incredible amount of work these past few years keeping our children safe, happy, and educated in what can seem like an ever more chaotic and confusing world to our children (and their parents). I will do everything I can to support the people and ideas that have gotten us to the great place we are in and continue to move us into an even brighter future. This includes reenergizing our Board committees, continuing our multi-year forecasting and processes to monitor the fiscal health of the school, discussing strategic initiatives, and welcoming our two newest members of the Board of Trustees: Liz Morrison, Head of School at Morristown Beard School, and Dr. Diane Calello Pˇ21, Pˇ24, Pˇ30.

See you in September and GO FALCONS!!! Joe Ferraro Pˇ27,ˇ29

With Chrisgratitude,Mertonˇ82, Pˇ19, ˇ22

Often when you think you’re at the end of something, you’re at the beginning of something else. — Fred Rogers

I also see our Board of Trustees, our School Leadership Team, our teachers, our Parents Committee, and so many others all working this summer toward more than simply returning to “normal” this September. They are all moving Far Hills Country Day School forward to that “something else”—something truly exciting that is reflected in the ongoing transformation of our main entrance into a modern, open, and illuminated beacon welcoming everyone not just to the Learning Commons but to the classrooms, facilities, joy, laughter, and support that lie beyond. My greatest hope for the 2022-2023 year is that I see each and every one of you coming through those doors and heading back to the PAC, the gym, the Cafe, the hallways, the classrooms, the fields, the Ropes Course... everywhere our community thrives. It’s time to finish what we started at the end of last year and reintroduce ourselves to one another—in person. Left to right: Joe Ferraro, Georgia S. Zaiser, and Chris Merton.

As I reflect on the challenges and successes of the last three years, I am struck by the resilience and fortitude of this unique community. We have been pushed to our limits trying to navigate the unknown, yet here we stand, together, supporting each other and providing the best possible opportunities for our students. Through these uncertain times, I have witnessed thoughtful, collaborative work among all employees. Administrators continued to work tirelessly and think outside the box to take on all aspects of the pandemic. Teachers responded similarly and continued to stay focused on delivering curricular goals across numerous platforms. And, of course, none of this could have been made possible without the unyielding support of our staff. I also feel an immense level of gratitude toward our school’s volunteers; Class Parents, Parents Committee Chairs, Far Hills Fund Chairs, Event Chairs, and of course, our Trustees. Their commitment and dedication continue to provide opportunities for our school to prosper on many levels. Financially, we have achieved new heights and have created a plan that will guide us well into the future. Over the last few years, we A s I look ahead to the fall, I feel a very strong sense of excitement across our community for what I know we believe will finally mark the end of three years of disruption.

As many of you know, Far Hills has been an enormous part of my life, and I am eternally grateful for all that I have received from this community. I have been blessed to get to know many of you personally, and I thank you for your friendship. Looking ahead, I could not feel any better about the direction of the school and the current leadership. With Georgia and her team at the helm and Joe taking over as Board Chair, I know this school will continue to achieve new heights and inspire young minds for generations.

To help shake off that pandemic malaise and reinvigorate our Falcon spirit, we have been working on assembling an exciting schedule of events for next year. You will see many Far Hills traditions revived. You will also see new traditions created. While we will have a lot more to say about these events come September, know that each semester students, parents, and extended family will have multiple opportunities—both on and off campus—to support our school, celebrate our accomplishments, and simply enjoy each other’s Allcompany.youneed to do is participate! The best way to rediscover how privileged we are to share in this truly wonderful place we call Far Hills Country Day School is to GET INVOLVED! We are already blessed to have many wonderful volunteers sharing their time and talent on numerous committees and as class parents. But there is always more we can do, and it is never too early to volunteer to help further enrich your children’s Far Hills experience…not to mention your Finally,own.Ilook ahead with enthusiasm and gratitude for the continued opportunity to work with our Head of School, FROM CHRIS MERTON, OUTGOING BOARD CHAIR

Finally, I would like to thank you, the parent body. Thank you for choosing Far Hills and for being supportive members of this community. It is a vastly different landscape when a school has parents that embrace the Mission and trust that it will be carried out.

All you need to do is participate! The best way to rediscover how privileged we are to share in this truly wonderful place we call Far Hills Country Day School is to GET INVOLVED! "have seen significant upgrades to our campus, including state-of-theart science labs and renovated Upper School classrooms. Additional improvements will continue to enhance the overall experience for our students, faculty, and all community members.

Dear Far Hills Community, Having completed nine years as a Trustee, including four as Board Chair, I want to take this moment to thank our teachers, staff, and administrators. Their tireless efforts, contributions, and sacrifices make up the engine that drives our Mission, providing our students with “brilliant beginnings.”

LOOKING AHEAD WITH ENTHUSIASM AND GRATITUDE BY JOE FERRARO, BOARD CHAIR

PASSING

A NOTE OF GRATITUDE

At the year-end Board of Trustees dinner, Georgia S. Zaiser and Ron Sansone shared that the athletic field used for soccer and lacrosse, as well as many other activities, will be named in honor of Chris Merton: The Merton Field. THE TORCH

COLLEGE MATRICULATIONS Daylen Joyce ˇ18,

February 10, 2022 Father to Trustee Emeritus, Chris Merton '82, and Grandfather to Willa '19 and Wilder '22 Merton

Andrew Brucker ˇ90 and son Colin ˇ22, Elizabeth Glynn Valentine and son Winston ˇ22, Stuart Valentine ˇ79 and daughter Chloe ˇ22 and son Harrison ˇ14, Christopher Merton ˇ82, Jazz Merton ˇ92 and son Edward “Wilder” Merton ˇ22 at the Green and White Dinner, June 8, 2022.

The world was Gina’s stage; she loved life and its wonders. She knew what love was; she had so much from her parents Vinnie and Gino, her husband Keith, her partner of 22 years, her family, her teachers, friends, and everyone who knew her. She said Far Hills was family. She had so much to give. She shed light like the sun, beauty like a rose, and reached for the stars. Her stay was all too short.

Gina was born with charisma and a strong will and had her own leadership style. Like her mom and dad, she was generous with compassion and thoughtfulness, and her humor and fun were contagious. She worked diligently for high grades and honor rolls. She was loyal, trustworthy, and strong. She had her own special personality; she was a force. A good force.

to the Class of 2018 as they embark on their next journey—college! This year, we are excited to share the list of colleges they will attend in the fall. We are so proud of how our Forever Falcons continue to soar! Amherst College Boston College Boston HighHarvardGeorgetownFairfieldEmmanuelElonCornellCollegeColbyClemsonBucknellUniversityUniversityUniversityCollegeoftheHolyCrossUniversityUniversityCollegeUniversityUniversityUniversityPointUniversity The Hill Academy Lehigh UniversityTempleSantaProvidenceUniversityCollegeClaraUniversityUniversityofColoradoUniversityBoulder of Miami University of Notre Dame University of Virginia Wake Forest University Washington and Lee University

April 14, 2022 Grandfather to Emily Pardilla '19, and Ava Pardilla '23

Daughter to Trustee Emerita, Vinnie Montrone

Mari B. “Mai” Watts '52 |

Gina Montrone McCarthy '97

FOREVER FALCONS

ˇ18, FH faculty member Dan Kramer,

Think of the sun, think of a rose in bloom, think of the stars, and think of Gina. Then envision that little girl with ribbons and bows in her hair, ready to give a hug to a friend. Think of that young athlete with long brown hair flowing in the breeze as she chased a hockey puck. Remember that focused teenager who loved to act, sing, dance, and help with Kentucky Care. Picture that girl who was friends with everyone—classmates and teachers—laughing in the FHCDS hallways and advisee group. Imagine that scholar’s exuberance when she was accepted at Boston College. That was Gina. The Gina we loved.

October 20, 2019 Susan Schenk Wittig '56 | April 6, 2021 Nolan Russo |

Gina Montrone McCarthy '97 | April 17, 2022

Dr. Charles A. Westfield, III | April 21, 2022 Father to Charles '13, Meredith '15, and Greer Debra Ashrafi April 24, 2022 Mother to Marni Ashrafi '21

John H. “Jack” Smith | March 17, 2022 Father to Far Hills Country Day School Chief Financial Officer, Lori Fitzgibbon Eric Sumner |

Congratulations CLASS OF 2018 Paul Ramseur Dominic Pizzo and Jack Reale at a graduation party held

Many of Gina’s teachers at Far Hills Country Day School contributed to this remembrance of Gina Marie Montrone McCarthy ˇ97.

July 18, 2021 Father to Trustee Emeritus, Brett Russo '93, and Nolan Russo '93

ˇ18

ˇ18,

in June.

Edward Merton |

ˇ81

IN MEMORIAM

OCTOBER 24 FH GOLF CLASSIC AT HAMILTON FARM GOLF CLUB Far Hills Country Day School 697 US-202 Far Hills, NJ 07931 fhcds.org Non-Profit Org. U.S. PermitChester,PAIDPostageNJNo.241 SEPTEMBER 30 ALUMNIPEPALL-SCHOOLRALLYNIGHTATFARHILLSWELCOME! DECEMBER 9 ATWINTERFESTFARHILLS NOVEMBER 22 ALUMNI HALF-COURTNIGHTHOOPSATFARHILLS S A V E T H E D A T E S

Pages, The Far Hills Magazine, Graduation 2022 Edition

Articles inside

FIELD DAY

DISTINGUISHED AWARDS AND MATRICULATION NEWS

REMARKS FROM GEORGIA S. ZAISER