FCS Spring 2025 Magazine by Friends' Central School

Quaker Works

ON THE COVER

The Audrie Gardham Ulmer ’37 Center for Innovation and Design Opens Its Doors.

Quaker Works

THE MAGAZINE OF FRIENDS’ CENTRAL SCHOOL

Head of School

Beth Davis Johnson ’77

Editor

Clare Luzuriaga

Director of Communications

Contributors

Lydia A. Martin

Assistant Head of School for Communications, Enrollment, and Strategic Initiatives

Katherine Clayton

Communications Manager

Alba Kupa

Digital Media & Marketing Manager

Frankie Zelnick

Institutional Data Manager & Registrar

Colette Kleitz

Chief Advancement Officer

Natalie Herring

Director of Alumni/ae Relations

Linda Waxman Wasserman ’75

Senior Advancement Officer

Melissa DiNofia-Bozzone

Associate Advancement Director, Engagement

Peter Boyer

Associate Advancement Director, Major Gifts

Cary Snider ’11

Donor Relations Associate

Jennifer Chu

Annual Fund Director

Matt Thorsheim

Advancement Associate

Janice Leavy

Advancement Associate

Grant Calder

History Teacher and Archivist

Photography

Michael Branscom, Polina Bulman, Jebb Chagan, Jay Gorodetzer

Photography, Kristi Kallam, Alba Kupa, Clare Luzuriaga, Caroline Maw-Deis, Alice McBee, Paola Nogueras, Lee Payton, Taylor Salvitti, Deborah Skapik, Mark Tassoni, Andy White '03, Patricia Zaradic, Frankie Zelnick

Layout

Clare Luzuriaga, Nancy Biddle

We welcome any comments, letters, photographs, and suggestions for future issues. Please send all to communications@friendscentral.org

Friends’ Central School 1101 City Avenue, Wynnewood, PA 19096 communications@friendscentral.org

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Read past issues of Quaker Works at friendscentral.org/publications

PLEASE RECYCLE

ABOVE At the ceremony to officially open the Audrie Gardham Ulmer ’37 Center for Innovation and Design, CID Co-Director CJ Keller and Head of School Beth D. Johnson ’77 present a plaque to Rich Ulmer ’60 in recognition of his generosity. Clerk of the FCS Board of Trustees Jim Wright is pictured at right. See page 26 for more about the opening

Bidding Farewell to Beloved FCS Teachers Friends’ Central’s Mission and Civic Humanism

The Audrie Gardham Ulmer ’37 Center for Innovation and Design Opens Its Doors Constitutions of Nations: An Alumnus From the Class of 1904 Rediscovered

Letter from the Head of School

Dear Friends,

Welcome to the spring 2025 issue of Quaker Works, a chance to look back on all we’ve achieved so far this year and to look ahead to Alumni/ae Weekend 2025 and Commencement 2025, among so many other momentous spring events.

Reflecting on this fall and winter, many things stand out for me. A particular highlight was the opening of the Audrie Gardham Ulmer ’37 Center for Innovation and Design (the “CID”). We cut the ribbon and threw open the doors to this beautiful, state-of-the-art facility in September 2024 (see page 26 for more). And the CID has been buzzing ever since, with students engaged in class projects, participating on robotics teams, or just stopping by to design, build, and innovate in their free time, always supported and assisted by the incomparable faculty team of CJ Keller, Matt Schoifet, and Qil Jones ’13.

Other highlights: the Upper School History department, headed by Danielle Saint Hilaire, held a day of deep listening and election programming in October, guided by this year’s Peace testimony and aimed at helping us think about how empathetic listening can be an antidote to polarization and contribute to a productive, peaceful political process. The quality of plays and musical performances performed in all divisions took us to new levels this fall and winter; the Middle School musical, Beauty and the Beast Jr., as an example, brought audiences to their feet every night. The Lower School faculty opened their doors to “special visitors” in every grade, showcasing the artwork and performing talents of the students and giving a glimpse into life at the Lower School, a magical place indeed! Our student-athletes continued to excel across a wide range of sports. There was just so much to celebrate, with the academic, artistic, and athletic triumphs of our students always at the forefront. Read on to hear more about these and so many other happenings on campus.

In this issue, we say goodbye to retiring colleagues whom many of you will remember fondly. Although it’s hard to put into words the impact they have all had on our community; their colleagues have done a beautiful job, writing eloquently about each of them.

I hope you’ll also take the time to read the “Notes from Friends,” beginning on page 30, with updates and news of many of our alums. And I hope those, and many other alums, will be back on campus for Alumni/ae Weekend 2025 in May!

As always, I am grateful to be a member of this community, where we remain grounded by our Quaker testimonies of Peace, Integrity, Equality, Community, Simplicity, and Stewardship.

I look forward with great excitement to welcoming so many of you back to campus this spring!

Kind regards,

Beth D. Johnson ’77 Head of School

MIDDLE SCHOOL MUSICAL BEAUTY & THE BEAST JR

This fall's Middle School musical, Beauty & The Beast JR, was a resounding success and included fabulous acting, singing, choreography, and costumes. Congratulations to the cast and crew!

See page 8 for FCS on the Stage, with more details about the many plays and performances so far this year!

Campus Log

1. The Parents of Students of Color (PSOC) Welcome Gathering in September was a well-attended and enjoyable community event.

2. Lower School students celebrated Peace Week in September with activities including decorating Peace Testimony rocks with their intentions for the year and placing them around the School.

Upper School Vocal Group students performed at Bryn Mawr Day in September (photo by Jenn Ruggiero P’25).

4. In September, third graders watched the Philadelphia Union II soccer team play at Subaru Park in Chester in connection with their Fall Project theme of the World Cup. They wore matching tie-dye t-shirts that they had tie-dyed themselves in the Ulmer Family Light Lab.

5. The eighth grade traveled to New York City to see Outsiders: The Musical in September.

6. In October, Lower Schoolers enjoyed tasting "Stone Soup" as part of their annual Harvest Fest celebrations.

7. In September, the seventh grade headed to Echo Hill Outdoor School on the Eastern Shore of the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland for the annual four-day experience.

8. The ninth grade spent three days at Camp Pinemere in September, building community as a class.

9. Kristi Kallam's Kindergarteners studied hot air balloons as part of their fall project. They made parachutes and hot air balloons in the Light Lab and tested them in a wind tunnel with the help of Light Lab Director Brie Daley.

10. Students in Patty Zaradic's eighth-grade science class experimented with "slime" projects in October.

11. In October, Kirk German’s sixth grade drama class was treated to an impromptu drum concert by Michele Zuckman's sixth

grade music class, featuring authentic West African instruments.

12. Taylor Salvitti's third graders explored creative writing this fall, practicing using a storyteller voice, adding dialogue, and creating strong leads and endings. They held a publishing party via Google Meet to share their stories with their families in October.

13. The Jewish Student Union (JSU) annual potluck Shabbat dinner held in January was a success, with many community members in attendance.

14. This winter, four FCS seniors –Andrew Yu, Luke Halpern, Sean Scott, and Mico Carpiniello –were named National Merit Scholarship Program finalists.

On November 15, Tanya Muse's Kindergarten students celebrated the 50th day of school with a 50's themed party.

In December, the sixth grade did an activism project. They worked in groups and focused on an issue that was important to them. Together, they formed organizations working to bring change to some big issues like climate change, homelessness, and racism. Then they went to the Audrie Gardham Ulmer ’37 Center for Innovation and Design (the CID) to create 3-D models of an important feature of their organization.

Anthony Bowers' Studio Art students visited the Philadelphia Museum of Art in December to see “The Time Is Always Now” exhibit, featuring 28 Black and African diasporic contemporary artists who use figurative painting, drawing, and sculpture to illuminate and celebrate the nuance and richness of Black contemporary life.

In October, we welcomed French exchange students and their faculty chaperones to campus to experience life at FCS. In March, several of our own Upper School students who study French made the journey to Lyon, France, reciprocating the exchange.

FCS international students celebrated the Mid-Autumn Festival with a festive lunch in September.

Students presented their many and varied projects at the Sixth Grade Science Fair in January.

In October, students sampled stream water as part of the eighth grade stream study.

In November, Kindergarten B came to the City Ave. campus for projects in the CID and a visit with their grade 9 physics buddies for a physics lesson connected to their hot air balloon projects.

Upper School

performance

Students in 4a conducting science experiments in December

Muslim Student Association

and a

held an Iftar

The

(MSA)

(breaking of the fast) on March 12,

prayer space was offered at school for the month of Ramadan. Pictured are some of the members of MSA, with MSA student leader Ruba Abdelgalil ’26 (center).

Alejandra Socorro's

Spanish students took a Flamenco class with

artist Elba Hevia y Vaca at her studio in Overbrook in November.

FCS REPRESENTS AT PHILLY MATH OLYMPIAD

In December, a group of eight students – Gemma Chiang ’27, Abi Greenberg ’27, Ari Barak ’27, Bowen Xu ’26, Peter Hu ’27, Lawrence Wu ’28, Charlie Niu ’28, and Arda Erus ’28 – traveled to Westtown for an in-person Philly Math League Olympiad. They faced 12 other schools from FSL and Inter-AC in both individual and team rounds. They had been competing against 13 other schools remotely for the previous weeks before having the chance to match up in person.

WORLD AFFAIRS COUNCIL MODEL SENATE PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS

In December, Christopher Samuel ’26, Charlotte Hull ’25, Maya Nagda ’25, and James Lovett ’25 participated in the Model Senate program at World Affairs Council of Philadelphia. Charlotte had a leadership role as Committee Co-Chair, and Maya was recognized as an “Outstanding Senator.”

DEBORAH SKAPIK AND HENRY SNEDEKER ’27 PRESENT AT 245TH AMERICAN ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY MEETING

Upper School physics teacher Deborah Skapik and Henry Snedeker ’27 attended the 245th American Astronomical Society Meeting in January in Harbor, MD. They both presented posters. Henry's poster detailed research on data they had gathered during the April 8, 2024 total eclipse. Deborah’s poster was for the educational branch of the AAS, detailing the work and excursion of the FCS Moonshadow Team last year. Deborah received a surprise visit from Nicholas Kirschner ’14, who is currently pursuing a doctorate in high energy astrophysics while working at NASA/GSFC. Nicholas shared that he had been inspired to do this line of work while at FCS studying physics.

FCS ANNENBERG BIOMEDICAL TEAM TRIP

Students in the Upper School’s Annenberg Biomedical Team took a field trip in February to Lankenau Hospital for a “kick-off” event that that included a live surgery (cholecystectomy, a.k.a. gallbladder removal). The FCS team’s topic for this year is Postpartum Disease Physiology and Treatment, and they will have their final presentation at Upper Darby High School in April. FCS team members are Samantha Ernst ’25, Erian Henighan ’25, Lawson Messe ’25, Alex Aronson ’25, Margot Groundwater ’26, Elisabeth MacDougall ’27, Corinne Gorham ’27, and Avery Tessler ’27.

MAIN LINE STUDENT OF THE WEEK POYRAZ OZER ’25

Congratulations to senior Poyraz Ozer, who was named Main Line Student of the Week for October 2127 by Main Line Times & Suburban in recognition of his academic and extra curricular achievements. Poyraz was one of just five students in the entire country to be selected to compete on the U.S. team at the International Young Physicists’ Tournament in Budapest last summer. At FCS, he has conducted independent research on the impact of environmental conditions on insects through sound analysis. And his many academic accolades include receiving a Certificate of Recognition from the Pennsylvania State Senators in July for his achievements in physics. Poyraz is a member of the FCS swimming and water polo teams, and he volunteers as a Teen Leader at Cradles to Crayons.

MAIN LINE STUDENT OF THE WEEK KAREENA MATHUR ’26

Junior Kareena Mathur was named Main Line Student of the Week for February 3-9. Kareena is the leader of FCS's Asian Student Association (ASA), which provides assemblies and activities, including an annual Pan-Asian Conference for local schools. She is a Peer Mentor to ninth grade students in their transition to the Upper School and during their first year. As a Phoenix Ambassador, Kareena regularly assists in the Friends’ Central Admissions Office, providing tours to prospective students and volunteering at Admissions events. As a member of the FCS squash team, she competed in the US Squash High School Championships. She also manages the School’s Varsity field hockey team and is a dancer and dance teacher. Congratulations, Kareena!

ORAL PROFICIENCY CONTEST MEDAL WINNERS

FCS students brought home four medals at this year's James J. Doyle Oral Proficiency Contest in February. The competition is open to all schools in Montgomery County, and students compete in French, Spanish, German, Chinese, and Japanese. The FCS winners were (pictured above from left) Silas ’27 (gold for French 4), Lisa ’26 (gold for French 3), Griffin ’27 (gold for Spanish 3), and Raina ’29 (silver for French 1). Congratulations to all participants!

FCS on the Stage

This fall and winter, FCS staged outstanding performances across all divisions.

Congratulations to the actors, singers, musicians, and tech crews on their talent, creativity, and hard work!

(This page, clockwise from top) the Upper School play in October, Antigonick; the Middle School musical in November, Beauty and the Beast JR.; musicians at the Middle School Winter Concert; chorus members performing at the Upper School Winter Concert; the Grades 3-5 Winter Concert; the Upper School musical in March, Head over Heels

GRAY ’34 MOVIE RELEASE

Last winter, Gray ’34 had his first acting role in the locally shot documentary Patrice: The Movie, a "documentary rom-com" which addresses a movement to bring marriage equality to people with disabilities. Gray featured in a few of the recreation scenes about Patrice's life. He did some funny improv and earned an acting credit for his role as "The Pill Bottle."

JASPER McILVAIN ’28 PLAY ACCOLADES

Jasper McIlvain '28 play, Family Feud, was selected to be featured at the Philadelphia Young Playwrights New Voices Festival. Jasper's play was chosen from over 700 submissions from over 30 schools to be a part of the performance which was held in October at Temple University's Randall Theater.

Members of Upper School Vocal Groups performed at Arch Street Meetinghouse's "Meetinghouse by Candlelight" event in December.

PHOTO CREDIT Eddie EinbenderLuks for Arch Street Meeting House Preservation Trust

In February, Upper School vocal group the Quaker Noats had a wonderful performance at the 12th annual Main Line A Cappella Sing-Off, sponsored by Ardmore Rotary Club. They earned a $500 donation for Guitars 4 Good, a charitable organization founded by FCS alumni Dev Gupta ’23 and Jace Anderson ’23, which contributes instruments and music lessons to children's hospitals and underserved communities.

In November, Michele Zuckman’s Upper School Musical Theater class (pictured at left) went to see Hamilton at the Academy of Music, and students in Megan Schumacher's Upper School Foundations of Theater and Scriptwriting class saw Lynn Nottage's Intimate Apparel at the Arden Theatre.

In February, Princeton a capella group Shere Kahn came to perform at an Upper School assembly. It was so great to see one of their members, FCS alumna Lucy Shea ’23, back on campus!

ANGELS IN AMERICA ASSEMBLY

In February, junior and senior English students studying Tony Kushner's play Angels in America in Laurie Novo's class had a visit from FCS alums Lior Wolf ’15, Julian ShapiroBarnum ’17, Samara Bradley ’15, Kellan Barr ’15, Elliot Davis ’15, Rose Gendelman ’15 and Grant McCord ’15 who participated in the 2014 Friends' Central production of Angels in America, along with former theatre director Terry Guerin and set designer (at the time) C J Keller. As far as we are aware, FCS was the first high school in the United States to present this mature and challenging play. The alums' visit was part of the English department's spring seminar interdisciplinary study of a text that includes special events centered around the chosen book. Thanks to Al Vernacchio, we were fortunate to be able to display two panels from the AIDS memorial quilt in the FCC, and there was also series of panels outlining the timeline of the AIDS epidemic on display in the Language Building.

In November, Nature Nursery students had their first Fall Showcase at the Lower School for family and friends.

TIKA NASTA ’27 IN PMEA DISTRICT CHORUS

Congratulations to Tika Nasta '27 who performed at the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) District 11 Chorus. The concert took place on Saturday, February 8 at Pottsgrove Middle School.

SHAKESPEARE COMPETITION

Maya Gerstein '26 and Elijah Teel '26 represented FCS in the ESU Regional Shakespeare Competition in Philadelphia at the Museum of the American Revolution in February as part of a national competition. Elijah's chosen monologue was of Theseus from A Midsummer Night's Dream, and Maya performed as Paulina from The Winter's Tale They each performed a sonnet as well. Maya progressed into the final round as a top-10 contestant.

SAMMI SMITH ’26 STARRING IN NEW FILM

Congratulations to Sammi Smith ’26 who has been making her mark in Hollywood for years! She’s brought her talents to the screen in Disney’s Saturdays and Peacock’s The Best Man: The Final Chapters Her newest and most exciting project is a leading role in the new Tubi film Wrong Place, Wrong Time! (Please note: TV-MA – Mature Audience Only). Samantha Smith (imdb.com)

DECA SUCCESS

The DECA team had a busy and successful winter. In December, they traveled to King of Prussia to compete in the District 11 competition. They had three first place winners: Mico Carpiniello ’25 in Human Resource Management, Gemma Chiang ’27 in Accounting Application Series, and Silas Costa ’27 in Retail Merchandising. In February, 27 delegates represented FCS at the DECA State Career Development Conference in Hershey, PA. Rishi Amaravadi ’26 and Gemma Chiang ’27 were finalists in the categories of Hospitality/Tourism Operations and Accounting Applications, respectively, and Alejandro Guzman ’26 and Anelia Brown ’26 were Role Play winners as well as finalists in the Job Interview Category. Zoey Dunne ’25 and Mico Carpiniello ’25 had the highest scores in Test Score and Role Play.

MIDDLE SCHOOL ROBOTICS EXCELS AT FIRST ® LEGO® ROBOTICS COMPETITION

In February, at Palmyra Area High School, the Middle School robotics team, Phoenix 2, competed as one of the 36 best FIRST® LEGO® League teams in the state. The FCS robot scored a team record 405 points on the competition table, and both of the team’s presentations received full marks from the judging panel, earning our students ninth place in the state. To put that in perspective, there are 388 First Lego League teams in the state of Pennsylvania; our team placed in the top 10! Their robot design presentation also earned them the Engineering Excellence Award, which acknowledged the care the team put into improving their robot through a data-driven interactive design process.

We are so proud of our students and grateful to their wonderful faculty coaches, Dan Bobrowski and Matt Schoifet.

Organized by the Asian Students Association (ASA), the Middle & Upper School Spring Festival assembly in January was a high-energy event, full of color, culture, music, and audience participation!

FCS Model UN delegates explored and debated critical global issues at the 41st Ivy League Model United Nations Conference (ILMUNC) hosted by UPenn in January. Pictured is the full FCS Model UN team about to board their bus to the conference.

In late January, a team of FCS Upper School students and faculty members attended the Quaker Youth Leadership Conference hosted by Carolina Friends School in Durham, NC.

Third graders had fun in the Light Lab making chocolate truffles and decorating candy boxes to hold them as the culmination of their multiplication unit, Muffles' Truffles.

Eighth grade students in Rae Esformes Bloom's history classes held their annual Stock Market Simulation in January.

The parents of Toby ’34 and Jasper ’38 visited the Light Lab to share the Spring Festival tradition of making dumplings. Both Pre-KA and 3B learned the history behind why dumplings are made during this holiday celebration and made and ate their own dumplings!

Black History Month was observed with poweful assemblies in all three divisions. For their assembly, Lower School students had read The ABCs of Black History by Rio Cortez and illustrated by Lauren Semmer. Each class prepared a puzzle piece representing each page and each letter of the alphabet. And all of the puzzle pieces were fitted together at the assembly.

graders built and tested

The Middle School's Black History Month assembly included choreographed dances by the dance team, beautiful music from the chorus, some original student poetry, and a short scene about the impact of Black inventors and thought leaders by the eighth grade drama class.

Eighth

Rube Goldberg machines in the CID in January.

The eleventh grade took a class field trip to Washington, D.C. in February.

Lower School students were so happy to host Special Friends in (from left) November (grades 3-5), December for (K-grade 2), and January (Pre-K).

The Gift of a Friends’ Central Education

Make an Impact with your Taxes

Through the Friends Collaborative, a partnership of 22 Quaker schools in Pennsylvania, FCS families and alumni/ae have the opportunity to leverage their PA tax liability in support of tuition assistance for FCS students. Participants receive state tax credits against their PA tax liability up to 90 percent of their donations, as well as a federal tax deduction on the remaining 10 percent (see chart at right for an example). In total, FCS received $1,045,358 last year for tuition assistance from 67 parents, alumni/ae, and friends through the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit (OSTC) programs.

If you are interested in supporting tuition assistance at Friends’ Central through EITC/OSTC State Tax Credit Programs, please contact Peter Boyer, Associate Director of Advancement, Major Gifts (pboyer@friendscentral.org, 610.645.4485).

Ari Borthakur and Ana Ramos-Hernandez

Relationship to FCS:

Current parents of Adrian Borthakur ’27

Careers:

Ari – Business Innovation Advisor for the Department of Radiology at the University of Pennsylvania

Ana – Senior Vice President, Technology, Evaluation, and Data Analytics at JEVS Human Services

A Friends’ Central Education:

“What makes Friends’ Central special is its mission and values. The combination of intellectual, ethical, and spiritual development is important to us. But what truly stands out is the level of care from the teachers and advisors. When we first met with Mr. Kennedy and Mr. Darling, they described our son as if they had known him for years; they understood his personality, what motivates him, and how he reacts when frustrated or happy. That level of insight and investment in students is remarkable.”

Why We Support Tuition Assistance:

“We benefited from tuition assistance, and we want to give back so that other families can have the same opportunity. Education should be accessible to everyone, and if this is the best school for our child, it should be the best school for other children too. We also believe deeply in philanthropy. Both of us have spent our careers in nonprofits and government, so we understand the importance of social investment.

The EITC program has made giving even more accessible. When we explain it to other parents, they’re often surprised at how beneficial it is — not just for the School, but for them as donors. It’s an incredible way to maximize impact.”

The Impact of Giving:

“Giving isn’t just about the money; it’s about the feeling of fulfillment that comes with it. When you give, you’re not just supporting a school; you’re contributing to a larger community and shaping the future for students who wouldn’t otherwise have this opportunity

For those considering the EITC program, we always say that if you can float the money, it’s a no-brainer. This is money you would have paid in taxes anyway, but with EITC, you get to direct it toward tuition assistance instead. It’s a simple way to make a significant impact on student’s lives, and we’re happy to talk to anyone who wants to learn more about it.”

Bill Darling

BY ALEX M c DONNELL ’87

Bill Darling arrived at Friends’ Central in 1986. A big man with a big voice and an even bigger heart, he quickly became a fixture of our Upper School, known for his dry humor, hearty laugh, his wisdom, and his commitment to his students.

At his core, Bill is a man of deep faith, and his spiritual grounding has infused everything he does. He frequently offers ministry in Meeting for Worship. Bill has understood that a Friends’ Central education is not just about academic achievement but about shaping students into thoughtful, ethical individuals who see the Light in people, even those with whom they disagree.

Proud parent of Sammy ’21, Bill’s professional roles at Friends’ Central have been many and varied. Until recently, he was our longtime Upper School Math Department chair. Bill set a high bar for excellence and has hired almost the entire current math department. This crew of gifted teachers is evidence of Bill’s ability to identify teaching talent.

Before that, Bill served as a grade dean for many more years, providing guidance, support, and structure for countless students as they made their way through the Upper School. Twice, during this time, Bill stepped up to serve as Acting Upper School Co-Principal.

As a track coach, Bill specialized in teaching the discus and shot put, coaching several league champions in his day. Bill also has been a terrific fan to all of the teams through the years. One still often finds Bill on the sidelines cheering on his students.

Most summers found Bill working as the Assistant Director of Trailblazer Day Camp on the City Avenue campus. It is through this capacity that I learned of Bill’s many gifts as I worked alongside him for more than a decade. His energy was boundless, and his ability to connect with young people and stay level-headed in challenging situations always impressed me. He also had a great ability to right-size a situation and put it into its proper context. In my own role as Dean of Students, I have found myself a few times going to seek his counsel for just these reasons.

Bill has a great voice and wonderful laugh, and though serious, he never takes himself all too seriously. A generation of Upper School students will remember “Fire Marshall” Bill and his booming “good morning, everybody” at every fire drill. Bill’s also been known to participate in a student council assembly lip sync contest now and then. Hip Hop Bill, anyone?

But above all else, Bill was and is the essence of a true teacher; he made even the most challenging mathematical concepts accessible. For those lucky enough to be in his classroom, math became a way to think and to problem solve.

On a personal note, I’ve learned a whole lot about the craft of teaching from Bill Darling, mostly through many summer conversations. Yes, we need to be the master of our subject area; but Bill helped to teach me that good teaching is always about relationships.

Bill has done it all and done it all well. I am grateful to have worked alongside him for these many years.

Laurie

Novo BY BILL KENNEDY

When word got around the Upper School faculty that Laurie Novo would be retiring at the end of the year, people didn’t know what to do. One colleague told me he dropped everything he was carrying, his hands signaling the shock he felt. Others took a quiet moment, wondering what such a change might mean. At least a handful of teachers went right over to see Laurie, to confirm the rumor, to congratulate her, and to make themselves feel better, with some help from her. Such has been our reliance on our friend and colleague, who came to FCS in 1993.

Laurie has read everything you have and most of what you hope to, but she’s quiet about it. A March Madness nut and a theater nerd, she claims to know only one joke, yet she’s super funny. Crafty, in the artistic sense, she is a welcoming host, an exceptional gift-giver, and a champion listener. A terrific conversationalist who can talk with anyone about nearly everything, she is as comfortable in the world of ideas as she is in the world we have. A proud Jane Austen and Margaret Atwood fangirl, she blushed when she received a note of thanks from Tom Stoppard for a project she directed at FCS. An adoring grandmother, Laurie and her husband, Steve Chawaga, with whom she co-taught Law and Literature, are the proud parents of three FCS lifers, alumni/ae Mary ’13, Peter ’09, and Tim ’06.

An inspiring teacher whose passion for literature and dazzling intelligence are matched by a playful, creative energy, Laurie understands learning as a communal endeavor. She builds community by being in community; we are, as she likes to say, “all in this lifeboat together.” Learners initially awed by her crystalline thinking and expertise come to recognize her care for and belief in them. Truth-seeking and meaning-making aren’t easy. Laurie encourages students to share that responsibility by showing them how to do so. Her wry humor and affirming words reinforce her belief, shared with more than a few students over the years, that, “everyone deserves the chance to grow up.”

Laurie’s teaching extends well beyond her own classroom. She has, in her many years of administrative work at FCS as a grade dean, department chair, assistant principal, and principal, served as an official mentor to dozens of faculty members and an unofficial mentor to nearly everyone else. A generous, insightful supporter and collaborator, she enjoys nothing more than “building things together.” She has spent much of her time observing classes, talking shop, and brainstorming plans and approaches with colleagues. Striving “to support others in doing the things they want to,” she has shared her gifts with many grateful colleagues, helping to engage us in our important collective work.

Leading with vision, purpose, and openness, Laurie likened her administrative roles to framing the house so it would be ready for everyone to work on together. On her own and with collaborators, she has been responsible for many Upper School hallmarks we take for granted, such as Senior Night, community blocks, and much of the Student & Family Handbook. In these ways, and many others, she has designed and helped to build the Upper School. The framework may not always be visible, but it supports all we do here, and those of us involved with the construction know how lucky we were to have Laurie drawing up the plans.

FCS Teachers Reflect on Beloved Retiring Colleagues

Frank Fisher

BY JIM ROSENGARTEN

After a full and varied career of teaching at Quaker schools, Frank Fisher is retiring. He worked at a Quaker boarding school in Ohio, taught students as young as fifth grade but has spent the majority of his career with high school students. History is his passion, and he has imbued his classes with that passion over the years.

Frank gave a demo-lesson back in 2007 when he applied for the history position in the Upper School that I still recall. He masterfully elicited responses from the students using thoughtful questions about the document students had read and following strands of their thinking with sharp follow-up questions that both encouraged students while also challenging them. I remember thinking then that I would learn from this person if we were fortunate enough to hire him. And, in the fall of 2007, he began his 18 years here.

In his time here, Frank has taught all the core courses offered to 9th through 11th graders many times, leaving his mark on all three of them. His areas of interest in history are wide and varied, but he has always had a special interest in the history of those who often go unrecognized. We have benefited greatly from his knowledge of labor history, Black history in the U.S., and African history. The latter led to two electives he has guided students through over many years: “Creating Africa” and “Modern African History.”

Frank’s talents extend beyond the classroom. He has been a grade dean for much of his time at FCS, shepherding classes through the varied rhythms that their four-year experience provides for them. His steady presence, unflappable nature, and insight has guided those of us who have served on his team. He brings a thoughtful and even inquisitive presence when discussing how to best serve the needs of our students. In all facets of his work here, the students have always been foremost in his mind and heart.

Frank acted as clerk of the agenda committee for many years, helping craft the agenda for faculty meetings and clerking the meetings. The same thoughtful, inquisitive, and insightful nature that guided his work with students proved to be invaluable in this role, as well. It was the many ways both in that role and informally in many other roles, that I have appreciated Frank most of all. He understands how things work, especially how schools work. In fact, he served on the board of another Quaker school. His insights offered to me in some of the roles I have had have been invaluable, as I know they have been for many others. When I served as chair of the history department, his advice and comments from curriculum to hiring were full of a wisdom I came to both expect and take for granted.

Frank is also the proud parent of two children, Nate ’16, and Bea (AFS ’19). Frank and I have often commuted to school together and have taken great joy in sharing our experiences as fathers. His inquisitive nature also fuels his desire to understand how things work, thus making him the kind of person who can take apart a car and put it together, rehab a house, fix almost anything. While he will be much missed here by both students and colleagues, I can’t wait to see what he ends up creating in this next phase of his life. Congratulations, Frank! And thanks for all you’ve done.

(Clockwise from top) Bill Darling in 1995, Sharon Kollender in 2013, Laurie Novo ca. 1994, and Frank Fisher ca. 2012

Sharon Kollender

BY TAYLOR SALVITTI

In 2013, Friends’ Central welcomed Sharon Kollender, who began her journey with us as a dedicated Pre-Kindergarten teacher. Over time, she transitioned to second grade, where she stayed for the majority of her tenure, before embracing a new challenge in third grade in 2022. I’ve had the distinct pleasure of being her teaching partner for her final three years at FCS, a period marked by a seamless and successful collaboration. I’ve tried, and failed, to get her to extend her stay for at least three more years, a testament to the irreplaceable partnership we’ve shared. Sharon is a consummate collaborator, always eager to delve into our curriculum, building upon successes while thoughtfully adapting areas for growth. She is an outstanding teacher whose passion for education shines brightly.

Sharon’s unwavering commitment to her students has been a constant source of inspiration. She nurtures their academic and social-emotional growth with remarkable dedication, creating an environment where every child feels valued and supported. It’s clear that Sharon’s focus is always on the children, and she truly embodies the Quaker value of seeing the Light in each student. She cultivates a classroom environment where every learner’s unique style, perspective, and personality are not just accepted, but celebrated. Every child in Mrs. Kollender’s class knows, without a doubt, that they are cherished, seen, and heard.

Beyond her role as an exceptional educator, Sharon is a devoted and proud wife to Richard and mother to her children, Ben ’19 and Sarah. Throughout everything, she supports Ben and Sarah in their endeavors with unwavering love. Her love for her children is a constant source of strength, reflecting the same uplifting spirit she brings to her classroom.

As a colleague and friend, Sharon is a beacon of warmth and unwavering support. She is the first to celebrate milestones, no matter how small, and equally quick to offer a comforting note, a listening ear, or a supportive hug during challenging times. Her genuine kindness, open-mindedness, and empathy make her an invaluable friend and ally, the kind of person who makes the entire school community a better place.

Though my time knowing Sharon spans only six years – and our close collaboration just three – I am confident that our friendship will endure long beyond her retirement. In these past three years, I've learned invaluable lessons about teaching from Sharon. She has shown me the power of patient observation, the importance of fostering an inclusive classroom, and the art of tailoring instruction to meet the unique needs of each child. I've witnessed firsthand how her deep empathy and genuine care can transform a student's learning experience. Sharon has been a mentor, a guide, and a true inspiration. I wish her all the best in her well-deserved retirement, and hope she enjoys many happy and fulfilling years to come, filled with the same joy and light she so generously shared with us.

Steve Emerson

BY ANDY WHITE ’03

When you have served as Chief of Hematology/Oncology, Associate Director for Clinical/Translational Research of the Abramson Center at Penn, Director of the Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Medical Center, and the 13th President of Haverford College, the only natural career progression is to join the Friends’ Central Middle School and teach eighth grade geometry. For the past eight years, we have been so fortunate to have Dr. Stephen Emerson in our community.

Stephen Emerson, affectionately known to his students as Steve, has been a pillar of the faculty for nearly a decade, joining us first as a long-term Upper School sub, before moving to the Middle School. When he arrived, Steve was no stranger to the FCS community. His son, Blake Emerson, is a member of the Class of 2003. But watching education from the sidelines was not in the cards for Dr. Emerson. After a decorated career in medical research and higher education, the siren song of the classroom pulled him back into secondary school. We are so glad that it did.

As our advanced geometry teacher, Steve has spent countless hours walking students through proofs and theorems, offering impromptu office hours around campus, and guiding young mathematicians to the highest levels of Upper School math. His classroom was a space of inquiry, kinetic energy, and deep mathematical thinking. Steve's ability to make complex concepts accessible and engaging earned him the admiration of both students and colleagues. Even after students moved on to the Upper School, they frequently returned to Steve for guidance and support, a testament to the lasting relationships he built.

Steve’s contributions to Friends’ Central extended well beyond the classroom. He played a pivotal role in helping the School navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, lending his scientific expertise and thoughtful leadership during an uncertain time. His colleagues in the math department could always count on his insight, and despite being in "retirement," he remained deeply involved in curriculum development. Steve regularly attended Upper School math department meetings and math retreats, constantly looking for ways to refine and enhance the School’s program.

A true champion of mathematical enrichment, Steve spearheaded the School’s first-ever Middle School American Mathematics Competition team, providing students with a unique opportunity to challenge themselves and engage with mathematics on a national level. His enthusiasm for the subject was contagious, inspiring many students to push beyond their perceived limits. He also brought his collaborative spirit to the broader School community, eagerly stepping in to help with Middle School Mini-Courses and always being a reliable presence for class coverage. His collegiality and willingness to contribute wherever needed made him an invaluable member of the faculty.

Steve's impact on Friends’ Central will undoubtedly endure. He has guided and shaped the mathematical journeys of countless students, modeled lifelong learning, and embodied the Quaker values of community and intellectual curiosity. While we will deeply miss his good humor, friendly cafeteria chats, and supreme intellect, we know that his influence will continue to be felt for years to come. We are profoundly grateful for his years of dedication and wish him all the best in this next chapter of his retirement – if he really retires this time!

FCS WELCOMES

NEW DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI/AE RELATIONS

NATALIE HERRING

FCS is thrilled to welcome Natalie Herring, who joined us in December. Natalie brings extensive experience in admission and enrollment management. Most recently, she served as Associate Vice President of Enrollment & Marketing in Admissions at California State University Maritime Academy. She has also served as Dean of Enrollment Management at Hackley School and as Executive Director of REACH Prep. Natalie has long collaborated with alumni/ae in admissions and has been actively involved with her alma mater’s regional clubs, class governance, reunions, and affinity groups.

Natalie shared, “The uncommon kindness I’ve received from my coworkers and Head of School Beth D. Johnson ’77 made joining FCS an easy decision. FCS is rooted in care and grace, and that’s what not only continues to attract wonderfully bright young people and their devoted families but it also brings alumni/ae back home. What makes FCS special is palpable and authentic and has helped this community do great things since 1845!”

ACCOLADES FOR JENNIE AND SAM NEMROFF

Lower School Nurse Jennie Nemroff was honored at Main Line Reform Temple for her volunteer work at a celebration in March. Jennie's husband, Sam Nemroff, was also recognized. Both were celebrated for their many years of dedication to MLRT as Board of Trustee members and members of a wide range of committees, including capital campaign fundraising committees. Jennie and Sam have been members of MLRT since 1995, and their three grown children, FCS alumni Stephen ’09, Andrew ’12, and Daniel ’15, all attended the MLRT ECE and became B'nai Mitzvah at MLRT.

MICHELE ZUCKMAN PROFILED

BY CANVAS REBEL

In January Upper School Vocal Music Teacher Michele Zuckman was profiled in the publication Canvas Rebel for her many contributions as a music educator, choral conductor, and singer. Along with teaching music in both Middle and Upper School and directing Upper School Vocal Groups, Michele is a member of Chestnut Street Singers, a collaborative chamber choir. In 2014, Michele attended a Circlesongs workshop led by Bobby McFerrin. Michele regularly brings special guests friends who are professional musicians and composers to campus to enrich the experience of her students.

PROFESSIONAL RETREAT FOR FRIENDS' CENTRAL NATURE NURSERY TEACHERS

In November, faculty from all four sections of FCS Nature Nursery joined with teachers across the East coast for a weekend outdoor education retreat hosted by Association for Nature-Based Education (ANBE). Our FCS teachers collaborated with over 50 other outdoor-educators on workshops centered around storytelling, mathematics, early literacy, environmental science and stewardship. The event reinforced so many of the best practices Nature Nursery already does and was inspirational for plans to come.

LOWER SCHOOL PLAY GETS US MOVING

A longstanding tradition and always a huge hit with students, the Lower School Faculty Play, written and performed by teachers and staff, is a fun and engaging way to highlight the curriculum covered in the Fall Project. This year's play, performed in January, was all about Movement and was set in Mr. and Mrs. Potato Heads’ living room, as they channel surfed to find some inspiration to get them moving in 2025.

Many thanks to the Home and School Association (HSA) and our generous families for the delicious Appreciation Breakfasts provided to faculty and staff on both campuses in December!

(From left) Natalie Martin, Lilian Nelson, Suchita Fiorillo, Parker Lawrence, Ruben Raskin, and Jennifer Ross

Visitors to Campus

FCS welcomed authors, scientists, artists, educators, and leaders who enriched our community in the fall and winter, including the following:

AUTHOR & EDITOR ELLEN OH

Middle School students spent the first part of the school year discussing and reflecting on their summer community read, Flying Lessons & Other Stories. In October, Ellen Oh, author and editor of Flying Lessons, came to campus for a day filled with literary conversation and creative inspiration. Ellen spoke to students at a Middle School assembly.

Ellen Oh is a Korean American author and founding member and CEO of the non-profit We Need Diverse Books. She is the author of young adult and middle grade novels including the Prophecy trilogy, also known as the Dragon King Chronicles, a series of fantasy, young adult novels based on Korean folklore.

AUTHOR & PROFESSOR

MARC SCHULZ

On October 28, Marc Schulz visited the Upper School to speak at a morning assembly. In the evening, he spoke to the larger Friends' Central community about his New York Times bestseller, The Good Life: Lessons from the World’s Longest Scientific Study of Happiness

Dr. Schulz is the Associate Director of the Harvard Study of Adult Development, an 85-year-old longitudinal study of human flourishing in two generations of individuals from over 700 families. He is also an award-winning Professor of Psychology who holds the Sue Kardas PhD 1971 Professorship at Bryn Mawr College and directs Bryn Mawr’s Data Science Program.

DANCE ARTISTS CHLOE MARIE & TAMMY CARRASCO

Lower School students were joined by two dancers during Community Block in October. Chloe Marie is a multi-disciplinary artist who collaborates with multiple artists in Philadelphia and occasionally teaches. Tammy Carrasco is a dance artist and educator based in Philadelphia. Tammy has taught and staged work at colleges nationally and internationally and is currently a Visiting Assistant Professor of Dance at Bryn Mawr College.

PERCUSSIONIST JAN JEFFRIES

Jan Jeffries visited Michele Zuckman’s Upper School World Music Drumming class in November. Jan is the lead player of the Music Over Matter percussion group.

MARY KAY YEZERSKI-BONDOC

Michele’s Upper School musical theater class had a Google Meet with Mary Kay Yezerski-Bondoc, wig supervisor for Wicked on Broadway.

GIOVANA ROBINSON BAND

The Upper School kicked off Hispanic Heritage month in October with a lively assembly featuring Giovana Robinson Band. With vocalist Giovana Robinson P’25, the band has been performing for over 25 years in the tri-state area, sharing a passion for Latin music from the Caribbean countries of Cuba, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, and more.

Visitors to Campus

AUTHOR & ILLUSTRATOR MATT PHELAN

Award-winning author and illustrator Matt Phelan visited Kindergarten B in December to talk about his work and how he gets his inspiration for the many books he has written and illustrated. In his book The Sheep, the Rooster, and the Duck, for example, the main characters are based on the three real-life animals who participated in the first hot air balloon launch in 1783, which the students had studied as part of this year's Lower School fall thematic study, Movement. Matt took the time to answer many questions from KB students.

ARTIST & EDUCATOR DWIGHT DUNSTON '06

West Philly-based hip-hop artist, educator, and activist Dwight Dunston ’06 returned to campus for the Upper School Peace Day Assembly in December. Dwight performed with the Upper School chorus and then engaged everyone in interactive, affirming activities before giving a powerful talk about peace and the importance of mirroring and magnifying each other's light.

EMERITUS PROFESSOR DR. JEROME F. STRAUSS

Jerry Strauss, Emeritus Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at UPenn's Perelman School of Medicine, visited the Middle School in February. The grandfather of Joey Hagarty '31, Jerry spoke to the entire sixth grade about his work in genetics.

ATTORNEY LAUREN ZIMMERMAN

In December, as part of their exploration of book banning, the fifth grade had the opportunity to speak virtually with Lauren Zimmerman, a Florida attorney who is currently litigating book censorship cases in Nassau County. Lauren fielded many questions by the students.

ESTONIA & NORWEGIAN AMBASSADORS TO US

INTERIOR DESIGNER ZACHARY MARTIN

In January, Upper School Foundations of 2D Art students had an inspiring time with interior designer Zachary Martin, making mood boards and learning about the field.

DISTINGUISHED VISITING LECTURERS 2024-2025

Friends' Central's 2024-2025 Distinguished Visiting Humanities Lecturer is Dr. Judith Giesberg P'27, who delivered her lecture at FCS on March 13. Judith Giesberg holds the Robert M. Birmingham Chair in the Humanities and is Professor of History at Villanova University. Her new book, Last Seen: The Enduring Search by Formerly Enslaved People to Find Their Lost Family, was released in February by Simon and Schuster.

Our 2024-2025 Distinguished Visiting Scientist is Dr. Drew Weissman, MD, PhD (and P'11, '15), a Nobel-prize winning, world-renowned physician and researcher at Penn Medicine best known for his contributions to RNA biology and the COVID-19 vaccines. Drew Weissman is scheduled to deliver his lecture on April 9 at Friends' Central.

Friends' Central's Distinguished Lecture Series is open to the public.

In February, Friends' Central welcomed the ambassadors to the US from Estonia and Norway, Kristjan Prikk (top) and Anniken Huitfeldt to Grant Calder’s Modern European History class. They also addressed the 10th grade and International Relations elective in the Shallcross Meeting Room and had lunch with Model UN students and faculty members. Discussions and presentations focused on the future of NATO, and there were also opportunities for students to learn more about the history of Estonia and Norway in the context of Europe's current borders and alliances and about the broader scope of the work of ambassadors in the 21st century. Many thanks to Alvar Soosaar P'25, '28 for making the visit possible.

Athletic News

STRONG SEASON FOR VARSITY GIRLS’ BASKETBALL

The girls’ basketball team enjoyed an exciting and impressive season, finishing with an outstanding 25-9 record and securing second place in the PAISAA Championship. In December, the team received an invitation to the prestigious Nike Tournament of Champions in Phoenix, Arizona, an incredible opportunity and a true honor for Friends’ Central. The roster included Jordyn Adderly ’25, Nal'La Bennett ’25, Logyn Greer ’25, Ki'yari King ’28, Londyn Mayo ’28, Sydney Ramseur-Williams ’25, Zya Small ’27, Kaiya Rain Tucker ’25, Phoenix Walker ’27, Saniyah Washington ’25, and Faith Watson ’28. Congratulations to all!

MULTIPLE FIELD HOCKEY ACCOLADES FOR SOPHIA BOZZONE ’26

This fall, Sophia Bozzone ’26 was named PHL17 Student Athlete of the Week, Main Line Girls Athlete of the Week, and National Field Hockey Coaches Association (NFHCA) High School Player of the Month for her outstanding performance as FCS field hockey goalie. She attained her school-record 500 saves this season and earned MaxPreps Player of the Game honors on three occasions in September.

Sophia joined the FCS field hockey team in her freshman year to play goalie and has received All-Friends’ Schools League honors as a freshman, sophomore, and junior.

"When she first stepped into the goalie cage, she really started off strong. She's a natural athlete," said Sophia's coach Lisa Mansure

As we go to print, the following four seniors are set to continue their basketball journeys at the collegiate level this fall:

Logyn Greer, a top 100 prospect, committed to Colorado University.

Jordyn Adderly committed to Coppin State University

Nal’La Bennett committed to Stonybrook University.

Kaiya Rain Tucker committed to Siena College.

MILESPLIT’S PA GIRLS ATHLETE OF THE WEEK NEENAH TRUSTY ’26

Congratulations to Neenah Trusty ’27, who was recognized as MileSplit’s PA Girls Athlete of the Week in February. She received the nomination following her outstanding achievements at two different meets: DVGTCA Tim Hickey Meet of Champions and Kristian Marche Memorial Invitational. Neenah placed first at both events, running 56.11 in the 400-meter (third highest this season in PA) and achieving 2:13.49 in the 800-meter (fourth this season in PA).

Following those exciting wins, Neenah participated in the PTFCA Indoor State Championship where she placed third with a time of 2:09.64 in the Girls 800 Meter Run. Neenah was also recognized with FSL All-League First Team honors.

Sophia Bozzone

Neenah Trusty

FSL ALL-LEAGUE HONORS, ALL MAIN-LINE TEAMS, NFHCA HIGH SCHOOL NATIONAL ACADEMIC SQUAD

Congratulations to our student-athletes who have earned Friends Schools All-League honors, All-Main Line Team, and NFHCA National Academic Squad recognition during the fall and winter seasons. All-league and honorable mention squads are selected in each sport at the end of each season by the coaches of that sport. In selecting players to the all-league or honorable mention squads, sportsmanship is as important as athletic prowess. The All-Main Line teams are selected by the coaches. National Field Hockey Coaches Association (NFHCA) High School National Academic Squad honor recognizes juniors and seniors who have achieved high marks in the fall semester.

FRIENDS SCHOOLS LEAGUE ALL-LEAGUE FIRST TEAM

Girls’ Cross Country:

Neenah Trusty ’27

Boys’ Cross Country: Silas Costa ’27

Field Hockey: Sophia Bozzone ’26

Boys’ Soccer:

Max Comstock ’25, Nick Mattioni ’25, Charlie Sorg ’26

Girls’ Tennis:

Margot Groundwater ’26, Maddy Jackson ’26, Karishma Satti ’26

Girls’ Basketball:

Nal’La Bennett ’25, Logyn Greer ’25, Zya Small ’27, Kaiya Rain Tucker ’25, Faith Watson ’28

Swimming:

Micaela Bailey ’27, Oskar Bauriedel ’26, Beah Damrauer ’27, Penelope English ’26, Sasha Giuntoli ’25, Ben Hilliard ’27, Evie Watkins ’26

Wrestling: Ian McLuckie ’26

NATIONAL FIELD HOCKEY COACHES ASSOCIATION HIGH SCHOOL NATIONAL ACADEMIC SQUAD

Ella Anderson ’26

Julia Bascomb ’26

Amaya Chin ’26

Alana Laver ’26

Maia Sevin ’25

FRIENDS SCHOOLS LEAGUE HONORABLE MENTION

Girls’ Cross Country: Ilana Wasserman ’29

Boys’ Cross Country: Duncan McLuckie ’25

Girls’ Soccer: Kristina Sullivan ’25

Boys’ Soccer: Ezra Drakes-Grant ’26

Girls’ Tennis: Kiki Troilio ’28

Boys’ Basketball: Patrese Feamster ’27

Swimming: Marin Katzenbach ’28, Lily Richman ’28, Ilan Vogl ’28

Wrestling: Alejandro Guzman ’26

ALL-MAIN LINE TEAMS

Boys’ Soccer First Team: Nick Mattioni ’25

Boys’ Soccer Second Team: Max Comstock ’25, Charlie Sorg ’26

Boys’ Soccer

Honorable Mention: Ezra Drakes-Grant ’26, Gonzalo Villar Garcia ’26

Field Hockey Second Team: Sophia Bozzone ’26

Field Hockey

Honorable Mention: Aarin McIntosh ’26

NFHCA High School National Academic Squad (from left) Maia Sevin, Julia Bascomb, Ella Anderson, Alana Laver, and Amaya Chin

FCS Varsity boys’ soccer triumphed against George School at Friday Night Lights in October. Pictured is Charlie Sorg.

JULIA EPPS ’28 FEATURED IN THE INQUIRER

Julia Epps ’28 and her ice skating partner, Blake Gilman, have been skating together for an impressive 10 years. This January, they were part of an exclusive group of Philadelphia-area skaters who competed in the 2025 US Figure Skating Championships in Wichita, Kansas. This marked their third appearance as a junior team at the prestigious event, which is broadcast across the country. In the article, Julia shared her surprise at the event’s widespread reach, recalling, “Last year for nationals, my teacher actually told me afterward that she watched the event, and I had no idea she even knew I was there.” At the competition, Julia and Blake earned eighth place in Free Dance and 11th place in Rhythm Dance. Their Free Dance program, a contemporary routine, carries a powerful message about self-discovery and acceptance (Excerpted from the Philadelphia Inquirer article by Ellen Dunkel.)

We hold everyone in the Light who was affected by the Washington, D.C. area plane crash with individuals returning from the event on board.

DREW FELDMAN ’26 SELECTED TO REPRESENT USA AT MACCABI GAMES

Fencer Drew Feldman ’26 has made some remarkable achievements this year! In January, he earned an impressive first-place finish in Div IA at the Nittany Lion Cup in State College, PA, securing his B25 rating. This achievement also qualified him for three events at the USA Fencing Summer National Championships this summer. Currently, Drew is ranked third in the Junior Men’s Sabre category in Region 3, which includes Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Rhode Island, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. He is also ranked in the top 100 nationally. In addition to these accomplishments, Drew was selected to represent the United States in U18 Fencing at the July 2025 Maccabi Games in Israel. (Sadly, the fencing component will not be taking place.)

LUCAS KALLAM ’28 TAKES FIRST PLACE IN STATE ARCHERY CHAMPIONSHIP

Lucas Kallam ’28 is on the Elite Junior Olympic Archery Development team through the Middletown Archery Club in Media. In August, he participated in the 2024 USAA/FITA Archers of PA Outdoor State JOAD Championship. Lucas was in the U15 (under 15) category in the recurve bow section. He came first in his category at a personal best score of 608, with 14 bullseyes (10 point area) and four center bullseyes (x). The tournament consisted of 12 rounds of shooting six arrows each time. His average per shot was 8.4, another personal best for him. His coach, Cindy Bevilacqua, who is owner of the club, coached the USA team in Paris.

MADDY JACKSON ’26 HELPS RAISE MORE THAN $3,000 FOR ACEING AUTISM

Thanks to the efforts of FCS junior Maddy Jackson and others, a recent fundraiser at Legacy Tennis Center raised more than $3,000 for ACEing Autism. The event included a round robin tennis tournament involving 31 players. Pam Rende, Regional Director for Aceing Autism, said, “ACEing Autism is an entire tennis program created specifically for players who have or may be autistic providing a safe place that neurodiverse participants can have fun, socialize, and learn skills. Programs could not run without volunteers like Maddy. Having peers like Maddy volunteer and connect with players while bonding over a love of a shared sport is a wonderful lifelong bond.”

Blake Gilman and Julia Epps (inquirer.com)

Drew Feldman (center)

ACEing Autism participants, including Maddy Jackson

Lucas Kallam

Alumni/ae Athletes in the News

DE'ANDRE HUNTER ’16, the talented forward from the Atlanta Hawks, was recently traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers in a move that has sparked excitement among Cavs fans. With his experience in the playoffs and his defensive skillset, De'Andre is expected to play a key role in helping the Cavs make a deeper postseason push as they continue to build a competitive team around their young stars.

In January, professional athlete and entrepreneur MUSTAFA SHAKUR ’03 had his Friends' Central jersey retired at a ceremony in Shimada with students, members of Mustafa's family, and FCS alumni/ae in attendance. In addition to having his jersey retired, Mustafa was inducted into the Philadelphia Black Basketball Hall of Fame Class of 2024. See page 39 for more about Mustafa’s jersey retirement ceremony.

At the University of Arizona's annual home cross country meet in September, triathlete LYDIA RUSSELL ’20, in her season debut, won the women's 6k with a time of 20:21.4. Lydia led from the start and finished over 20 seconds faster than the next best runner. “It felt really good; it was fun to be in the front of the race again,” said Lydia. “I haven't gotten to do that in a while, so it was super fun. I just did my thing and didn't worry about staying with the other girls. I trusted myself and trusted my training.”

UNDEFEATED SEASON FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL BOYS’ BASKETBALL

The Middle School boys’ basketball travel team had an outstanding season, going undefeated this winter with a record of 13-0. “We, as coaches, came into the season with one goal: to get each and every child better. However, the team had their own goal and that was to be undefeated. That’s not an easy benchmark, but that’s the one our boys set for themselves. I’m a proud witness to the hard work they put into making their undefeated season a reality,” shared Coach Timms, reflecting back on the winter.

SEVENTH GRADE AMERICAN HEART HEALTH CHALLENGE

In February, seventh graders had a kick-off assembly for the American Heart Health Challenge. Students heard stories of young people helped by the American Heart Association over the years. The students created and displayed decorated hearts showing why they participate. In health class, they learned about the history of CPR and had a chance to practice compressions on the Big Red Manikin. During the challenges,students had the choices of swimming, jumping, playing basketball, running, or working out in the fitness room. The seventh grade raised $650.98 to donate to the American Heart Association for research on congenital heart defects, nutrition security, CPR training, and mental well-being.

De'Andre Hunter (nba.com)

Mustafa Shakur

Lydia Russell (arizonawildcats.com)

Middle School Family Game Day

October 31, 2024

Friends’ Central’s Mission and Civic Humanism

BY GRANT CALDER P’20, FCS Archivist & Upper School History Teacher

ONE OF THE FIRST SOURCES the seniors in our grade 12 Modern European History seminar study is a set of excerpts from the writings of Leonardo Bruni (13741444), a Renaissance Florentine scholar. Breaking with the dogmatic, Church-dominated scholasticism of the time, Bruni became one of the most significant contributors to the emerging humanist movement, a people-focused system of education that emphasized human potential and commonalities and the pursuit of rational solutions to human problems.

Bruni was very clear that the study of history must come first (admittedly after the mastery of the Latin and Greek required to read it). “It is our duty,” he wrote, “to understand the origins of our own history and its development; and the achievements of Peoples and of Kings … The careful study of the past enlarges our foresight in contemporary affairs and affords to citizens and to monarchs lessons of incitement or warning in the ordering of public policy. From history, also, we draw our store of moral precepts.”

Bruni then took his approach a step further. In addition to anchoring their scholarly pursuits in a “sound and thorough knowledge” of important languages and in “a wide and varied range” of additional subject studies, he urged that humanists commit themselves to active involvement in public affairs and to serving the common good. Thus, civic humanism.

If this sounds familiar, it should. Friends’ Central’s Mission is “to cultivate the intellectual, spiritual, and ethical promise of our students”; our Vision is “to awaken courage and intellect – and peacefully transform the world.”

In our reading from his work, The Age of Reason, Thomas Paine, one of the great

Enlightenment thinkers, a civic humanist, and deist, cited the Quakers, in particular, as sharing a “virtuous” and “benevolent” system of morality with “Confucius and some of the Greek philosophers.”

Worryingly, the 21st century has witnessed a dramatic decline of interest in humanities fields such as history, literature, languages, philosophy, religious studies, and the arts. Many university departments have shrunk or been shuttered. In part, the high cost of education has encouraged more students and families to view colleges–and even secondary schools–as job training programs. And recent declines in the overall numbers of college-bound students has increased the pressure on the institutions themselves to fill seats, with the result that colleges and universities are more likely to highlight their graduates’ earning potentials than they are their capacities for contributing to the common good.

Nevertheless, the daunting local and global challenges we face continue to require broadly educated and community-oriented citizens of the world to tackle them. And Friends’ Central is perfectly positioned to produce just such Quaker-influenced civic humanists.

In October, the Upper School faculty organized a day of workshops focusing on the use of deep listening techniques in the current polarized political climate (See sidebar on this page). Also this year, Ancient Greek has been reintroduced and Mandarin added to Friends’ Central’s language offerings. Our continuing commitment to our Quaker and humanist traditions is further reflected in the opening last fall of the Audrie Gardham Ulmer ’37 Center for Innovation and Design, a wonderful new space for working on creative solutions to human problems. Bruni would approve. QW

A DAY OF DEEP LISTENING AT FRIENDS' CENTRAL

In October, Upper School students and faculty participated in a day of deep listening and election programming, particularly in regards to the US election and world events. Led by Danielle Saint Hilaire and the other members of the Upper School History department, all the activities of the day were guided by this year’s Peace testimony and aimed to help us think about how empathetic listening can be an antidote to polarization and contribute to a productive, peaceful political process.

FCS parent and political scientist Zachary Oberfield P’30, ’32, a professor at Haverford College, started off the day with a presentation about political polarization, followed by teacher-led workshops on topics on divisive issues in our society today, including immigration rights, foreign policy, gun control, abortion access, voting rights and the political process, and climate change. Students then gathered in their advisories for an exercise in deep listening and perspective-taking around these hot-button issues. We closed the day with a community building drum circle led by FCS parent Josh Robinson P’25.

Friends’ Central is perfectly positioned to produce Quaker-influenced civic humanists.

ABOVE Zachary Oberfield (top) and Josh Robinson (below)

The Audrie Gardham Ulmer ’37 Center for Innovation and Design Opens Its Doors

“So

many of us have found community, new passions and skills, and the resources to entertain our aspirations and curiosity. We have found ourselves, each other, and our voices.”

HELEN POTTS ’25

“I AM SO EXCITED for another year of wearing safety goggles and building stuff,” Helen Potts ’25, the capstone speaker, emphasized to the crowd at the Grand Opening of the Audrie Gardham Ulmer ’37 Center for Innovation and Design. On the morning of September 20, 2024, the Friends’ Central community officially opened the Audrie Gardham Ulmer ’37 Center for Innovation and Design on the City Avenue campus. Donors, trustees, friends, faculty, staff, and Middle and Upper School students gathered on Felsen Common to participate in the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new STEAM facility (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics). The program included remarks by Head of School Beth D. Johnson ’77, Upper School Principal Lee Payton, Middle School Principal Andy White ’03, and an inspiring speech by Helen Potts ’25. Helen embodied the impact of STEAM education as she spoke to her experience in Phase I of the facility, before the full-scale renovation of the former Rex Gym had taken place.

“I began to spend every moment I could find there. I got to school early and got permission to go during pretty much every study block. I wasn’t the only one either... I have learned so much from the Audrie Gardham Ulmer ’37 Center for Innovation and Design, most of which I wasn’t even looking for. So many of us have found community, new passions and skills, and the resources to entertain our aspirations and curiosity. We have found ourselves, each other, and our voices.”

Jim Wright, Clerk of Friends’ Central’s Board of Trustees, sat on the stage with Rich Ulmer ’60, the lead donor who named the facility in memory of his mother, Audrie Gardham Ulmer ’37. In a beautiful intergenerational passing of the torch moment, Rich Ulmer ’60 accepted a gift from the School, presented to him by Helen Potts ’25 in gratitude for his generosity. After the ribbon-cutting, Rich gave Helen the ceremonial pair of scissors. The Grand Opening closed with a tour and luncheon. QW

(From left) Helen Potts ’25, Clerk of the FCS Board of Trustees

Jim Wright, Rich Ulmer ’60, and Head of School Beth D. Johnson ’77 cut the ribbon together.

Click on the QR code above for a short video of the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

ABOVE RIGHT Helen Potts ’25 addresses the gathered crowd as Head of School Beth D. Johnson ’77, Rich Ulmer ’60, and James Wright listen.

RIGHT (From left) CID Co-Director CJ Keller, Middle and Upper School Innovation and Design Teacher Qil Jones ’13, and CID Co-Director Matthew Schoifet offer a guided tour of the CID following the ribbon-cutting ceremony. (From left) FCS Trustees Jon Harris, Laura Jackson ’65, and Quinn Bauriedel admire the new facility.

Friday, May 2

8:30 am-4:00 pm

Check-in FELSEN COMMON

8:30-9:15 am Breakfast

SHALLCROSS HALL, PHOENIX ROOM

8:30 am-2:00 pm

Walk through the Audrie Gardham Ulmer ’37 Center for Innovation and Design

The new, state-of-the-art center spans 6,800 square feet and houses studios dedicated to design, prototyping, fabrication, technology, and robotics.

AUDRIE GARDHAM ULMER ’37 CENTER FOR INNOVATION AND DESIGN

9:20 am-2:20 pm

Upper School Classes

Choose your own academic adventure and sit in with Upper School teachers and their students (View class schedule & RSVP online)

UPPER SCHOOL CLASSROOMS

10:05-10:45 am

Campus Tour with FCS Historian Grant Calder

Learn about FCS history with Grant Calder, Upper School History teacher and FCS Archivist.

MAIN BUILDING, FOYER

10:45-11:45 am

Faculty Coffee and Conversation

Connect with former and current faculty to reminisce about FCS then and learn more about FCS now.

MAIN BUILDING, OPA ROOM

12:00-12:50 pm

FCS Alum and Student Networking (First Lunch Period)

Join fellow alumni/ae to network and reconnect, while sharing your professional experiences and expertise with current students.

SHALLCROSS HALL, PHOENIX ROOM

12:55-1:35 pm

FCS Alum and Student Networking (Second Lunch Period)

Join fellow alumni/ae to network and reconnect, while sharing your professional experiences and expertise with current students.

SHALLCROSS HALL, PHOENIX ROOM

1:00-1:40 pm

The Wellington Student Engagement Initiative

Join Alexa Quinn, Associate Head of School; Jill MacDougall, Middle School Teacher Leader and teacher; Monty Ogden, Upper School Teacher Leader and English teacher; and Jim Rosengarten, Upper School Teacher Leader and History teacher to learn what it is, how it works, and how faculty are using student feedback to reflect on and inform teaching practices.

SHALLCROSS HALL, MEETING ROOM

2:25-3:25 pm

Campus Tour with FCS Historian Grant Calder

Learn about FCS history with Grant Calder, Upper School History teacher and FCS Archivist.

MAIN BUILDING, FOYER

4:00 pm

Girls’ Varsity Lacrosse vs. Academy Park High School LACROSSE AND FIELD HOCKEY FIELD

Saturday, May 3

8:30 am-2:00 pm

Check-in

FELSEN COMMON

8:30-9:15 am

Continental Breakfast

MAIN BUILDING TERRACE

9:00 am-4:00 pm

Archives Gallery Walk Opens

Go down memory lane and remember the academic and extracurricular experiences that shaped generations of FCS students.

MULTIPLE CAMPUS LOCATIONS

9:00-10:00 am

Campus Tour with FCS Historian Grant Calder

Learn about FCS history with Grant Calder, Upper School History teacher and FCS Archivist.

MAIN BUILDING, FOYER

10:00-11:30 am

All Alumni/ae Gathering

Join Head of School, Beth D. Johnson ’77 for an FCS update and Meeting for Worship followed by the Distinguished Alumna Award Ceremony.

SHALLCROSS HALL, MEETING ROOM

Linda Waxman Wasserman ’75

In honor of her decades of service to the School and her 50th Reunion, Linda will be honored with the 2025 Distinguished Alumna Award.

11:30 am-1:30 pm

Class Photos and Luncheons

• Classes of 1950-1974 and the 50th Reunion Class of 1975

SHALLCROSS HALL

• Classes of 1976-2024

FELSEN COMMON

12:00-2:00 pm

Tour the Audrie Gardham Ulmer ’37 Center for Innovation and Design

Come see the Audrie Gardham Ulmer ’37 Center for Innovation and Design and use the laser printers to create an engraved FCS keyring!

AUDRIE GARDHAM ULMER ’37 CENTER FOR INNOVATION AND DESIGN

1:00 pm

Boys’ Varsity Baseball vs. Pope John Paul II High School

UPPER LANKENAU FIELD

1:45-2:45 pm

Alumni/ae of Color Dessert Reception

MS ROOM 10

2:00 pm

FCS Robotics Team Demonstration

With the help of professional FCS STEAM mentors, students design, build, and program a robot for competition against other teams. See the team in action during this special presentation.

AUDRIE GARDHAM ULMER ’37 CENTER FOR INNOVATION AND DESIGN

3:00-3:30 pm

Alumni/ae Weekend Closing

John Daves, Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusivity, and Belonging gathers us all together until next time with an overview of the five C’s that anchor Inclusive Excellence and Friends’ Values at FCS.

MS ROOM 10

7:30-10:30 pm

The Great American Pub Bar and Grill Classes 1985-2020 celebrating reunions are invited to attend! 101 NARBERTH AVENUE, NARBERTH, PA

Individual Class Parties Schedule available online

NOTES FROM FRIENDS

SHARE YOUR ALUMNI/AE NEWS

Friends’ Central School encourages all alumni/ae to share news in the “Notes from Friends” section of Quaker Works. Send us your photos! To contribute, email communications@friendscentral.org (All alumni/ae notes are edited for length, grammar, and content.)

1947

Brigitte Solmitz Alexander writes, “The retirement community, Crosslands, in which I live has four FCS alumni/ae: Laura Jackson ’65 who currently serves on the FCS Board of Trustees; Ted Farraday ’72, son of our biology teacher Clayton Farraday ’32; and Donna Hayes Edwards ’55. It's nice to be reminded of our alma mater.”

1948

Virginia G. Keim Cole writes, “Celebrated my 94th birthday on October 13. In the past two years, my granddaughter got married. In the last several years, I have two great-grandsons (Tyler and Julian) and one great-granddaughter (Winnie), born July 2024 to my granddaughter Gena. For the last two years, after a fall, I've been bed bound. I've been in on and off Hospice. January 2025 was rough; in the hospital twice but doing much better since then. I'm still living with my daughter Marian. My other children – Howard, Daniel, and Deborah – are doing well. If you want to send cards, I'd appreciate them for holidays and birthdays. If all goes well, I'll be 95 this upcoming October 2025.

1951

Charis Gilbert Julian reports, “Bill and I live in a retirement community just north of San Diego, CA, where we continually make interesting new friends and enjoy the many activities, lectures, and concerts that are offered. We are fortunate that our son, his wife, and their two sons live nearby. Our two

daughters, their husbands, and five children – who are now spread across the country from Boston to San Francisco – visit often. One of the delights of modern technology is being able to watch remotely the development of our two young great-grandsons in St. Louis.

“While there are many serious problems in the world, we feel blessed to have lived in what may be the best time in human history.

“It is wonderful to see FCS thriving and continuing to be a school that prepares students to have meaningful lives.”

1958

Charles W. Schiffer writes, “Nancy Gruber Frisbie ’57 and I have been growing older together for 20 years. This October, we are going on another Viking River Cruise in Portugal. We are really excited about this one. We spend our summers in Boone, NC, some time in Avalon, NJ, then back to Florida in October. We are both blessed with wonderful families and many memories of Friends’ Central.”

1959

Carolyn Duthie Houghton reports, “Last May, I moved to The Quadrangle, a CCRC in Haverford PA. It was one of the best decisions I ever made! I absolutely love living here and have made more friends than I can count.”

Artwork by current fourth grade students

Virginia G. Keim Cole ’48 receives a hospital visit from her nephew Michael.

Gertrud Nunner-Winkler says, “Personally, I am very happy: I got together with a former colleague of mine whose wife, a good friend of mine, had died a couple of years ago. My oldest grandchild, Yannick, will be graduating from high school this summer.”

Bonnie Forster Richards writes, “Betsy Markland Schwartz, Cinda Buswell Hill, Steven Jess, and I spent a wonderful week together in Bonita Springs, FL, at Steve’s place. It was like we’d never been apart!”

1960

Bob Levin shares, “My newest book, Messiahs, Meshugganahs, Misanthropes & Mysteries, will be released shortly by Fanta Underground (FU) Press.”

1961

Sumner Hayward says, “I am still buying and selling antiques here in the north. In August, Bon and I will have been married for 60 years. She is still the only woman I have ever loved. In September, I expect to be a great-grandfather. I am excited.”

Joan Fleischhauer Smith writes, “I have come out of 13 years of retirement to be Head of School at Roland Park Country in Baltimore. I had previously been Upper School Head for 18 years prior to retiring. Great to be back at work with all the challenges and joys of school work.”

1962

Sally Price Lindsay Honey shares, “Much of our 2024 continued with volunteer work for various sailing organizations. I was chair of World Sailing’s Special Regulations safety committee and on three other World Sailing committees. Stan was on the World Sailing’s Council and Oceanic and Offshore committee. Stan is also on US Sailing’s board, and both of us serve on US Sailing’s Safety at Sea committee, as well as on sailing-related committees for various yacht clubs: Cruising Club of America, New York Yacht Club, and St. Francis Yacht Club. Whew! But we’re finally learning how to say no and have ‘retired’ from several committees to spend more time on the water with our new puppy (see photo)

“In between our volunteer duties, we managed to do a ton of work on our new-to-us 48’ powerboat, Sarissa. This is a whole new world for me after sailing all my life, but it’s good to have challenges, and I am learning how to handle the twin engines and super lightweight hull. In October, Stan found a perfect weather window for us to take Sarissa north from San Francisco to Vancouver Island: two days of flat water and scant wind (very unusual for the California/Oregon/Washington coast). On the first evening, we were accompanied by two dozen whales cavorting alongside. We cruised the San Juans and around Vancouver Island for two weeks then left Sarissa in a Sydney, BC boat yard for winter storage. We plan to return in the spring for a trip to Glacier Bay, Alaska.

Friends from the Class of 1959 in Bonita Springs, FL (from left) Steven Jess, Bonnie Forster Richards, Cinda Buswell Hill, and Betsy Markland Schwartz

Photos from Sally Price Lindsay Honey ’62 (Clockwise from left) Scout, their new puppy; their powerboat, Sarissa; Stan and Sally at the World Sailing Awards

“Meanwhile, our new German shepherd, Scout, has become a real boat dog and was a rich addition to our trip north. Back home, she enjoys our local GSD walking group and weekly training sessions.

“Our annual Price family reunion in the Pocono mountains brought 16 of us together to enjoy daughter Tam’s excellent cooking! We continue with Price family Zooms once a month and Honey family get-togethers for significant birthdays and holidays.

“The first week of November, we flew to Singapore for our final World Sailing meetings! Successful meetings, beautiful city, interesting architecture (a ship spanning three buildings 57-stories high on the edge of the sea?!), and good connections with longtime friends.

“It was a very satisfying year with much to look forward to in the coming months.

“All good wishes to our Friends’ Central family, especially the Class of 1962!”

1965

Richard Burgess writes, “I am still working full time in the Neurological Institute at the Cleveland Clinic, but I get back to the east coast often, spending as much time in Cape May as possible. Margaret and I are lucky to have both of our children and all of our grandchildren also living in Ohio – and visiting us down the shore too. This year, I received the Legacy Award from the American Clinical Magnetoencephalography Society which ‘recognizes clinicians and researchers who have shaped and fundamentally influenced the field of clinical magnetoencephalography.’”

Belle Brett reports, “My husband, John, and I are enjoying our quiet life on the southern coast of

Maine, with some travel adventures planned. I am learning ukulele, continuing with my art, and enjoying walks on the beach at low tide.”

1974

Simon George reports, “I have a part-time job, managing the photograph collections at the local history museum. Current avocations include the circus arts and the natural sciences."

Judy Kirk Meyer writes, “One of the biggest highlights of 2024 was our FCS 50th Class Reunion, a wonderful time spent with the classmates and teachers who helped shape who we are today. Over two nights and a full day, we reminisced about the past and caught up on the years that have flown by. It was a reunion we will all remember for years to come. How fortunate I am to be a part of this incredible class with cherished friendships.

“Returning to campus gave us the chance to witness its remarkable growth, with new educational buildings designed to prepare current students for the future. I was especially impressed by the updates by Head of School Beth Davis Johnson ’77 on the School’s achievements in various educational areas.”

1975

Mary Seidel-Sharp shares, “My daughter got married this past September, and one of my sons is engaged.”

Andrew Escoll writes, “Still in Winchester, MA, and living with my partner, Beth (and my dog, Marvin). I have retired from full-time family med-

icine practice but am continuing to work there per diem when they need me. I am still involved in teaching and am on the Admissions Committee at Tufts University School of Medicine. I am also volunteering at Youth Enrichment Services (YES) Boston, teaching inner city kids to ride bikes and to ski. I also volunteer at an organization called Sail Beyond Cancer. I have recently joined the board of our local non-profit farm. I have enjoyed writing essays and vignettes since retiring and recently started at Substack titled Home Visits available at andrewescoll@substack.com. Lucky to have my two daughters living nearby, (although Laurel is planning to move to Kuwaii). My son is in grad school in Colorado, and we are hoping to get more skiing and mountain biking time this year!”

Mark Arnold shares, “Still living the actor's life. I was the interviewer opposite Ryan Gosling (heard but not seen) in Blade Runner 2049, directed by Denis Villeneneuve. I am probably best known for Teen Wolf with Michael J. Fox and several contract roles for daytime TV. I received the Best Actor Award for Mile End at the Unrestricted View Fes-

This fall, 50 years after spending his 11th grade year (1973-1974) as an exchange student from Germany at FCS, Frank M. Ludwig returned to campus and met up with current German exchange student, Gonzalo Villar Garcia. We were so happy to welcome Frank back!

Frank M. Ludwig in his FCS exchange-student days

Richard Burgess ’65

tival in 2017 in the UK. I'm still chasing the work. I'm playing Iago in Othello with David Williams. My full list of credits are on IMDb.”

1976

Stephen Slade and his wife, Bettina, now live full time in Naples, FL. Steve retired last summer from the reinsurance business after 44 years. He’s enjoying himself and looks forward to spending more time with his friends and family, which include three (soon to be four) grandchildren. He’s excited about reconnecting with everyone from ’76 at their “50th” celebration.

1980

Bill Larson shares, “My daughter, Erika Haley Larson, graduated from USF with an undergraduate degree in psychology (which she needs to deal with me!) and, just this month, graduated from USF with a degree as a veterinarian technician.”

Jeffrey Miller reports, “I was able to reunite with good friends, Charlie King and Wayne Orkline, both Class of 1980, at my daughter’s wedding in California in November 2024.”

1990

Jonathan Ginsberg shares, “I am looking forward to our 35th Reunion. As many of you know, I became a widower in 2023, but I'm optimistic that things are on the up and up. I've been living/working in the D.C. area and hope to reconnect with FCS alums here in the DMV. I am a contractor with the FAA planning IT programs and budgets associated with flight tracking and awareness. My son is a Junior at JMU, and I attend most of the JMU foot

ball games to see him perform with the 500+ kids in the marching band.”

1992

Julian Berrian has been an Associate Professor of Communications at Chadron College in Chadron, Nebraska since 2002.

1995

Jennifer Briggs reports, “I closed my massage therapy business after 24 wonderful years, and I also stopped teaching at the massage school where I had been for 17 years. It was time for a change, and I wanted to focus more fully on my book coming out into the world. My book, Watching Sarah Rise: A Journey of Thriving with Autism was published in January. The book is about the various challenges I encountered when my daughter, Sarah, was born with special needs. When Sarah was four, I started an intensive home therapy program for her, and the results were incredible. It was a life-changing experience for all involved.”

Andrew Scharff writes, “Just plugging along, performing full time as Andrew's Big Show, taking a trip once a year with my Clown the World project and once a month clowning at CHOP as Dr. Notadoctor with the national Healthy Humor program. I'm closing in on 30 years as a full-time performer. In 2024, I had my sixth trip as part of my Clown the World project; this time to Oaxaca, Mexico. Chile will be the destination for 2025. I just got back from a three-week stint in China, performing alongside 50 other clowns from 15 different countries. Last fall, I had a show in the Philadelphia Fringe Festival entitled ‘Locker Room Pep Talk.’ It took place in the Old Pine Community Center locker room and was directed by FCS's own Terry Guerin.”

Jennifer Briggs ’95 with her daughter, Sarah

Andrew Scharff ’95

“ This is my place. This is where I belong.”

LINDA WAXMAN WASSERMAN ’75

2025 Distinguished Alumna and Blackburn Society Member Linda Waxman Wasserman ’75

Linda Waxman Wasserman ’75 came to Friends' Central as a seventh grader in 1968 and graduated in 1975. She returned to FCS in 1987 as a parent, with her children Sara ’99 and Josh ’02, both of whom were lifers. As an active volunteer, Linda served on the Home and School committee, chaired major fundraisers, and worked as a class representative.

In 1995, Linda began her professional career at FCS as Director of Alumni/ae Relations, and she remained in the Advancement Office, transitioning to Senior Advancement Officer in 2022. Over the years, she chaired numerous auctions, golf outings, and many School events, and she played a vital role in strengthening the School’s community and Development efforts. Linda is especially proud that two of her grandchildren are now students in the Lower School, continuing her family’s legacy at FCS.

After three decades of service to Friends’ Central, Linda will be retiring from our community this year.

In honor of both her decades of service to the School and her 50th Reunion, Linda will receive the 2025 Distinguished Alumna Award at Alumni/ae Weekend, May 3, 2025.

Q&A With Linda Waxman Wasserman ’75

How has it felt to spend your career at Friends’ Central?

“ This place is just… goodness – how am I going to leave? Every morning I park in that lot and walk up to the School thinking, ‘Wow – this is my place. This is where I belong.’ The people I work with here are just like family to me. Working here has been the most special time for me. I felt a part of something important.”

How have Quaker values impacted your life?

“A Quaker education is special because it emphasizes not just academic excellence but also values like integrity, community, and social responsibility. Those lessons have guided me in my life as an adult and as a parent. One of the things I'm proudest of is how I was able to pass that on to my kids. Of course, they attended FCS, so they learned it themselves, too. But they're such good people. They care about the community. That's how Friends’ Central really changed me.”

Linda with granddaughters

What were your first impressions of FCS?

“From the first minute I stepped on campus, I made great friends in Hans Fickenscher and Tim Golding’s homeroom. It was a nice community. I remember that first day, we went to the bookstore and bought all these books. Then we went into the gym – I'd never played sports before – and got all this equipment for field hockey. We walked all over the campus with our heavy book bags. At one point, everybody just threw their book bags on the ground and walked away, and when we returned later, there they were. I thought, ‘This place is just really special.’ Nobody was afraid.”

Do you have a favorite memory from your time as a student?

“May Day. Every classroom had a booth. I used to get into that stuff so much. Maybe that's how I got into event planning! I’ll never forget the snow cone booth that we had. Another great memory for me was hanging out in the library with Mrs. Horikawa; it was me, Jenny Cohen Shandelman ’75, Tom Hale ’75, and Lori Aglow Jacobson ’75. I was always getting in trouble for talking and for chewing bubble gum. But she really loved us.”

What encourages you about the future of Friends’ Central?

“I’m encouraged by how Friends' Central adapts to modern challenges while staying true to their core mission, and that is really the bottom line here: we practice what we preach. The campus might have changed, the buildings are different, but our mission and our values remain the same. I'm confident that, going forward, this is how things will evolve because the School handles things in such a great way – the kids here have the opportunity to speak freely and to express themselves. I'm encouraged because of the leadership here at the School and how the community is growing in the right direction.”

The Blackburn Society: Leaving a Legacy

In addition to the many other ways they have contributed to Friends’ Central, Linda and her husband, Dennis, recently joined the Blackburn Society by pledging a legacy gift to the School. Gifts to the Blackburn Society follow in the spirit of Eliza E. Blackburn ’22, the beloved faculty member who left her estate in the care of the Board of Trustees and enabled the purchase of the Lower School Campus in 1990. The Blackburn Society recognizes friends who have made the thoughtful decision of including FCS in their estate plans.

Why did you decide to join the Blackburn Society?

“I love Friends’ Central. FCS has played a big role in our lives. The gifts that my family has received from Friends’ Central could never be paid back. I’ve always been a loyal donor, but I wanted to do something more lasting. It was about gratitude. I want this place to be here for generations to come, for my grandkids, for their kids. My husband, Dennis, who didn’t even attend Friends’ Central, feels the same way; he’s been on this journey with me, and he loves this place, too. I care about Friends’ Central and want it to thrive and be here for another hundred years.”

Why should others consider making a legacy gift?

“Friends’ Central is a place that changes the world one student at a time. I’ve spent years talking to alums, and what stands out is how deeply connected they feel to this place. Giving back ensures that future students will have the same transformative experience. Whether big or small, every gift matters. This School has shaped so many people, and it has the power to continue shaping the world.”

Gabriela ’37 and Mariana ’35

Linda as a senior at FCS

Constitutions of Nations: An Alumnus From the Class of 1904 Rediscovered

BY GRANT CALDER

THIS SPRING, the FCS Upper School Modern European History class is wading through sections of various European constitutions. Both World Wars and the collapse of the Soviet Union spawned flurries of constitution writing in Europe, and the resulting documents say much about the cultures and crises from which they emerged and highlight the aspirations of their authors.

As my students are well aware, I love constitutions of the capital “C” sort. They make up most of the total and, like the U.S. Constitution, are single documents, in contrast to uncodified ones, such as England’s, which consists of the collected writings on the principles and precedents of English law from Magna Carta on.

These days, multiple collections of the world’s constitutions sponsored by universities and international agencies are available online, but the grandparent of them all, the first attempt at a full compilation of every national constitution translated into English, was a printed, multi-volume work, whose first edition appeared in 1951. At the time, Constitutions of Nations was the only resource of its kind. And its creator and editor was one Amos J. Peaslee, a Friends’ Central graduate from the Class of 1904.

Peaslee had been working on this project in the immediate post-WWII years with the goal

of increasing communication and cooperation among the world’s countries and fostering a greater appreciation for their shared foundations. Subsequent editions were produced into the 1970s to include constitutions written in the intervening years by newly independent countries in Africa and Asia.

In the late 1940s, the horrors of World War II and, in particular, the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, lent great urgency to efforts at promoting peace and avoiding another catastrophic conflict. As the historian Daniel Immerwahr ’98 noted about this period, “Even in the United States, which stood to lose its nuclear monopoly and global supremacy, support for a world state hovered between a third and a half in polls. ‘World Government shall come – this is practically the consensus in this generation,’ wrote the University of Chicago’s chancellor; he convened a committee to draft its constitution.”*

These activists believed that capital "C" constitutions as the basis for representative governments had an important role to play in increasing the likelihood human civilization could survive its divisive and destructive tendencies.

Interestingly, Amos Peaslee chose to serve in the army during World War I and was involved in the negotiations surrounding the Treaty of Ver-

sailles. During World War II, he switched branches, became a naval officer, and contributed to the writing of the United Nations Charter. His efforts remind us that there have always been members of our military establishment focused on preventing wars.

After the first edition of Constitutions of Nations was published, Peaslee worked in the Eisenhower administration as ambassador to Australia and then as Deputy Special Assistant to the president, specializing in areas of international law. He also acted as an adviser on armaments control, on the regulation of atomic energy, and consulted to the U.S. delegation to the United Nations.

In a long and remarkable career of public service, including a stint as president of the American Peace Society, Peaslee still managed to find time to support his alma mater as a member of Friends’ Central’s Board of Trustees and as its Chair during the Eisenhower years. A century after he graduated, he continues to contribute to the School, providing a wonderful example for my students of someone who believed in the critical role constitutions could play in promoting a more peaceful future. QW

*From “Forgetting the apocalypse: why our nuclear fears faded and why that’s dangerous,”

The Guardian, May 12, 2022

P’20, FCS Archivist & Upper School History Teacher

Volumes of Peaslee's Constitutions of Nations; (right) Major Amos J. Peaslee

1996

Gabby Duno Turner recently started as the VP of Marketing & Partnerships at the Bay Area Host Committee, helping to bring the region together through marquee events like the '25 NBA All-Star Game, Super Bowl LX, and FIFA World Cup. Gabby lives in Oakland, CA, with her husband, Andres, and their two boys, Ellis and Nico, who keep her busy with soccer games and endless adventures. She’s fully embraced Bay Area life but hasn’t lost her love for Philly sports!

1998

Tom Robson has joined the faculty of Purdue University, teaching courses in writing and directing for the Department of Theatre & Dance. In September 2024, he published his second book, Disney Parks and the Construction of American Identity: Tourism Performance, Anxiety, co-authored with Dr. Jennifer A. Kokai of the University of South Florida.

1999

Rimi Chakraborty shares, “Last year, I accomplished a huge career milestone in publishing my first book! Beyond Resilience to Rootsilience, co-authored with Samantha Anderson and published by the Unbound Press in February of 2024. Beyond Resilience to Rootsilience (‘root - zeel - ience’) is a revolutionary women's leadership framework for balance, well-being, and success. My co-author and I met at my retreat center in the Azores and coined the word in order to create new consciousness, as to affect real, transformational change required a new language. Resilience is not enough to deal with the stressors and challenges of today. Our new word, Rootsilience, takes the notion of ‘resilience’ a step deeper and teaches us to be grounded, rooted, and able to respond to stressors from a place of security rather than being stretched beyond our limits. The book brings together our combined wisdom in conscious leadership, healing foods and mind-body integration. The book’s website is www.rootsilience.com/book.”

Malika Cohen married Wesley Mullins, The Peddie School Class of 2009, on October 16, 2024 in a small ceremony in Beverly Hills, California. They met, got engaged, and currently live in Chicago, Illinois.

2000

Earnest Key shares, “In August of 2023, my wife and I opened up our own real estate brokerage.”

Emily Maher writes, “I live in Los Angeles with my husband, two children, and two dogs. As a part of Sony, I have been a part of developing, selling, and producing a number of series and documentaries, one of which The Book of Queer (streaming on MAX) won an Emmy in 2023. Two new shows will be coming out soon: Extracted on FOX in February and On Brand with Jimmy Fallon on NBC in September.

Nico Wright reports, “I have been working on improving and building the urban environment in and around the San Francisco Bay Area for the last 15 years, while also exploring the amazing mountains of the Sierra Nevada as an avid rock and mountain climber and trail runner. My wife and I fostered a teenage youth and are

Malika Cohen ’99 and Wesley Mullins, wedding portrait taken outside of Beverly Hills City Hall by Hanna Walkowaik

proud to be seeing him grow into an independent young man.”

2002

Dr. David H. Clements IV reports the birth of a second child this year.

Sara Kankowski DeSabato writes, “In June 2024, I traveled to San Diego with a colleague to present at the ALA Annual Conference, attended by over 13,000 librarians and educators. Our presentation was titled Let's Talk About Sex: Implementing Gender and Sexuality Education in Lower Schools using Age-Congruent Literature

The presentation went well and was written up in an article in American Libraries magazine. This summer, we'll present at ALA Annual again (in Philadelphia this year!).”

2005

Leah Franqui shares, “I recently moved back to Philadelphia, living in Point Breeze and, outside of continuing to write novels, I'm also teaching at the university level.”

Kate Fussner released her new middle grade novel-in-verse, 13 Ways to Say Goodbye, with Harper Collins on March 18, 2025. Her first book, The Song of Us, was longlisted for the Massachusetts Book Award for YA/MG, was named a 2024

Rimi Chakraborty ’99 (right) with Samantha Anderson, co-author of their book, Beyond Resilience to Rootsilience

Notable Verse Novel by the National Council of Teachers of English and was named a 2024 Best Children's Book of the year by Bank Street College of Education. Kate remains deeply grateful for the many FCS teachers who supported her as a writer.

Lawrence Murray contributed to a book that is out now, The Basketball 100 by The Athletic

Jennifer Warden shares, “I still see Rachel Bradburd and Andrea DeSabato all the time, and ran into Joey Guerin and Lauren Tedesco in Philly last month, which was such a fun surprise. I recently moved back to the farm where we moved to in eighth grade and would love to host everyone for an event! Anyone else remember the dunk tank from our eighth grade graduation party?! Let's bring that back!”

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2008

Megan Lundy and her husband, Rick, welcomed their sweet baby girl, Delancey Kay Marlin in March.

2010

Emma Richman Cohn reports, “My husband, Dan, and I welcomed our first baby, Layla, in June of this year! Dan previously coached tennis at FCS during his time in grad school, so it's a full circle moment :).”

Madelena Rizzo shares, “I graduated from a seven-year dual law/clinical psychology (JD/PhD) program at Drexel University in June 2023. I am a barred attorney in Pennsylvania (inactive status), and I became licensed as a psychologist in Pennsylvania in August 2023 and in New Jersey in January 2025. September 2024 marked five years being married to my wonderful husband, Thomas. We hope to have kids someday soon!”

Anne Estey Romanowski writes, “My son, John Romanowski, turned one in January 2025!”

2015

Adam Trask recently moved to Colorado!

We set a new record with the most dollars raised—$327,398! That’s over $20,000 more than last year, with a 15% increase in the number of donors.

Parents led the way, closely followed by alumni/ae as the most prolific donor groups.

We had 42 Giving Tuesday Ambassadors (our highest number ever!)

All gift challenges were met resulting in an additional $70,080 raised for Friends’ Central.

Madelena Rizzo ’10 and husband, Thomas

Delancey Kay Marlin, daughter of Megan Lundy ’08

Estey Romanowski

Mustafa Shakur ’03

Jersey

Retirement

2020

Alejandro Lopez writes, “I have recently relocated to Edinburgh, Scotland, where I am finishing up my Masters degree in Comparative Public Policy and will continue on for a PhD in Social Policy. I am sad to say I will not be back in the US this coming spring and will miss seeing familiar faces. Wishing everyone the best!”

2021

Lily Smith shares, “As a senior at NYU Tisch Drama, I am now pursuing a career as a music artist and songwriter. I have four songs out on Spotify, have been covered in major publications, and I have played multiple venues across three different states. I will be releasing my first EP this year. I also have been an ambassador for eating disorder organizations, Project Heal and NEDA. I have spoken at treatment centers about my story. Last NEDA event, I had the honor of performing an original song about eating disorder recovery. And, at our last Project Heal event, we raised 90k.”

Lily Smith ’21

On January 24, 2025, Friends’ Central retired the jersey of Mustafa Shakur ’03, number 22, the School’s first ever McDonald’s basketball All-American, at a ceremony attended by current students, alums, and members of Mustafa's family. Reflecting on the ceremony, Mustafa said, “I thought there would be about 20 or 25 people here, some of my old teammates and family. This turnout was amazing, and to walk in here and see everything that they put together, it’s amazing.”

Mustafa led FCS to the Friends League title, earning first team all-state and all-Friends honors, while claiming second-team all-city and all-public honors. Former Head of School David M. Felsen shared, “I loved watching him play, and no one played harder! Mustafa never took a play off! His excellence as a player and great teammates helped create community at Friends’ Central!” Mustafa entered FCS in 11th grade and went on to play at the University of Arizona, for the Washington Wizards, the Oklahoma City Thunder, and overseas. Mike Cook ’02, Assistant Director of Admissions, whose own jersey was retired last year, said, “Mustafa was an amazing teammate and is still a great friend today. When I think of a student athlete, Mustafa is the epitome of the word, someone that I still look to as an example of what it means to be a professional. I was so lucky to have been a small part of his incredible athletic journey.”

As highlight reels played across campus, the community witnessed FCS basketball glory. After the ceremony in the Shimada Athletic Center, Mustafa’s family and lifelong friends gathered for a reception. There were basketball-themed cupcakes and cookies complete with Mustafa’s number and photo! The day was bright, and the people were warm as they lingered, holding on to memories and the moment.

Mustafa is the fifth basketball player to have his jersey retired at Friends’ Central. The others are Hakim Warrick ’01 (No. 21), Amile Jefferson ’12 (25), Latifah McMullin ’99 (32) and Mike Cook ’02 (23). Keino Terrell, Mustafa’s FCS coach, said, “Mustafa’s greatest competitive asset was his discipline.”

Mustafa is a partner in PureFuel, a Philadelphia-based sports hydration drink company and the official sports drink of the Philadelphia 76ers.

“When I think of a student-athlete, Mustafa is the epitome of the word, someone that I still look to as an example of what it means to be a professional. I was so lucky to have been a small part of his incredible athletic journey.”

MIKE COOK ’02

Anne

’10 with son, John, and husband, Matt

At the jersey retirement ceremony (from left) Latifah McMullin ’99, Tim Jones ’95, Mustafa Shakur ’03, Ryan Tozer ’01, Earnest Key ’00, and Devin Coleman ’11

IN MEMORIAM

Barbara L. Bates ’50

Peter Jeremy Bernstein ’08

Richard Bookbinder ’57

Kevin Cadigan ’56

William J. Cauffman ’46

Sara Cerwinka Shaw ’65

Paul Clough ’82

Stephen Cozen ’57

Anne Dufour Clouser '50

Lynn Edinoff ’60

Clinton Ely

Deborah Hazzard Nash ’51

Rachel Jenkins ’43

Raynaud Jones ’61

Nancy Keller-Coffey ’79

Bryan Meshkov ’08

Bruce Miller ’55

Bryan Pokras ’57

J. Richard Relick ’47

Mayer Schnyder ’55

Michael Sernyak ’80

Howard Sipler ’53

Prudence Sprogell Churchill ’59

Lynn Volckhausen Edinoff ’60

Kristin White ’90

Patricia Willis Cordray ’61

Artwork by (from left) Maya Brothers ’26, Lyla Sharkey ’29, Tyson ’35, Avery ’35, and Victoria ’35

YOU CAN LIGHT THE WAY FOR FRIENDS’ CENTRAL SCHOOL.

Join members of our community with a gift to the Friends’ Central Fund. Together, we can cultivate students’ curiosity, help them explore their passions, and nurture their unique inner Light.

Community members share when their inner Light shines at FCS:

“At Meeting For Worship” - Kindergarten Student

“Whenever I see my older brother around campus” - 8th Grade Student

“When I see alums back on campus” - Upper School Teacher

“By giving students the choice to explore” - Lower School Teacher

“During play practice” - 8th Grade Student

“Because my teachers and friends just allow me to be me” - 10th Grade Student

Light the way for FCS with a tax-deductible contribution to the Friends’ Central Fund. Your gift supports teachers and their professional development, expands tuition assistance, and enhances learning spaces.