The 1923
A message from the Head of School, Chris Herman 2024 Commencement
Welcome to Garden’s first Alumni E-Magazine
After celebrating Garden’s 100th Anniversary, the excitement about the past, present, and future of this incredible institution continues. Over the last century, Garden has cultivated a legacy of excellence, shaping generations of Griffins who have gone on to make a profound impact on the world And as we look ahead, we’re thrilled to invite you to be a part of the next chapter
Your alma mater is thriving, and we want to keep you in the loop! It’s important for Griffin alumni to stay connected not just to reminisce about the past, but to actively shape the future Engaged alumni play a crucial role in ensuring that the Garden experience remains as vibrant, inclusive, and transformative for future generations of students as it was for you.
In this inaugural issue of The 1923, we are excited to share with you a variety of updates, stories, and opportunities to reconnect with your classmates and fellow alumni. We hope to reignite the spirit of the Griffin community and keep you informed about the exciting developments happening on campus. Whether it’s a new academic program, a campus expansion, or an alumni event on the horizon, this e-mag will serve as your window into all things Garden.
Our goal is simple: to foster connections, celebrate achievements, and ensure that the legacy of Garden continues to grow. Through The 1923, we hope to provide you with a platform to stay engaged with your alma mater, share your own stories, and keep the Griffin spirit alive
The Centennial Celebration
Introducing our Board of Trustees
The Griffin Impact: Alumni Stories Student Spotlight
The Griffin Impact: Faculty Spotlight
From the desk of Brad Battaglia The Legacy Effect News from campus
Nurturing
Message from the Head of School Chris Herman
Dear Alumni,
Reflecting on a very busy Centennial year at Garden School, I am reminded that self-reflection is an important part of learning for our students and for us as an institution Every opportunity to reflect is a chance to revisit who we are, why we do what we do, and how we adapt to changing circumstances.
Garden has always been a place in evolution with a core philosophy and mission governing its growth all along Whereas a learning space may need to be reimagined to reflect the changing priorities of students and educators, the importance of the personalized learning that happens in that space never does Personalized learning, excellence, and strong relationships are among those central tenets that have remained firmly rooted for 100 years in all we do here.
Garden evolves within the context of a community that grows more dynamic by the day. While educators and families at Garden come from varying economic, socio-cultural, and educational backgrounds with diverse views, it is crucial we recognize what draws us all here to learn together – a belief that every child matters and that learning is limitless
In June 2023, we were visited by a NYSAIS (NYS Association of Independent Schools) Committee of peer educators as we sought our 5-year reaccreditation. We have proudly been accredited by NYSAIS for decades and enjoyed this self-reflective process which allowed us to acknowledge the story of our school at such a pivotal time This, followed by a Centennial year full of looking back, left us beaming about Garden and where we are today
So, where is your beloved Garden School today? Our mission and Road to 100 strategic plan aim to cultivate each student’s commitment to learning, well-being, service, and achievement.
We are proudly independent and able to make independent choices on behalf of our children, families, and educators. We are on the upswing with growth in enrollment and notoriety, a financially sustainable model that prioritizes affordability, and a campus and program growing so students here continue to have access to best-in-class learning experiences.
There is an air of progress and bustle that fills the same halls you walked and the same rooms you learned in. It is palpable to all who visit campus that this is a school both proud of its history and legacy and also a school on the move. On the precipice of launching our satellite campus in South Korea, we know this is just the tip of the iceberg for our potential impact. We have learned so much over the last century, and we have much to share as a result.
With great engagement from our current and Alumni community, Garden is reaching out. Our Community Resource Center will educate 10,000 teachers and parents in Queens in the next five years. As we have for a century, we will continue to position ourselves as a leader in the academic space and a beacon of excellence in education for those fortunate enough to enroll.
Where is Garden today? It is proud, it is thriving, and it is looking to the next 100 years. I welcome you into this historic next chapter of our story, and I am proud to introduce this inaugural issue of The1923 Alumni Magazine. Thank you for your readership, leadership, engagement, and continued support of Garden School. Go Griffins!
Best, Chris Herman, Head of School
COMMENCEMENT: GARDEN’S CENTENNIAL CLASS OF 2024
Commencement was a great success and a fitting tribute to the unparalleled Class of 2024 - Garden’s one and only “Centennial Class ” Our commencement speaker, Richard Balmadier, Class of 1981 shared profound remarks tying his experience at Garden to his life of service in places in Africa, Asia, and around the world He talked about the “courage, resilience, and a willingness to step out of your comfort zone” required to do humanitarian work He talked about “putting the needs of others before your own” and he said to understand the value of meaningful service, we must “recognize we truly are one human family, bound together by a shared desire for peace, justice, and dignity”
His remarks remind us that Garden is the place where he learned this and was prepared to make a critical impact on the world. A special point of the ceremony is when we recognize Gardenites; those who have only attended Garden School for their whole life. In giving the awards, Mr. Vogel noted that both the Valedictorian, Sydney Chiu (also a legacy mother Anny Buakaew ’95!), and the Salutatorian, Andy Bodnariou, were among h d he great impact of a Garden education.
2024 Commencement Speaker
Richard Balmadier ’81
At commencement, Richard received the Sharma Family Humanitarian Award for his great work that has impacted people across the globe. Richard has served in the humanitarian sector for over three decades with Catholic Relief Services, the international relief and development agency of the American Catholic Community.
With high hopes for a posting in Africa, Rich began his career with a two-and-a-half-year assignment in Vladivostok, Russia, shortly after the end of the Cold War. From there he served as CRS country representative for Cameroon, Chad, Equatorial Guinea, Rwanda, Morocco, Cambodia, and Indonesia.
In those postings, Rich oversaw the design and implementation of programs in agriculture, microfinance, public health, water & sanitation, peace-building, and emergency response He currently serves as Director of Planned Giving at CRS Headquarters in Baltimore, Maryland Rich holds a master's in international relations from the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies and Bachelors from Columbia University Engineering. Rich’s sister, Isabelle Balmadier Lanini ‘83 also graduated from Garden.
THE CENTENNIAL GARDEN GALA
The Centennial Garden Gala was a night to remember. From alumni reconnecting with classmates they had not seen in a while, live music performances from current students, a record-breaking live appeal, and some exciting Silent Auction items, the event was a hit!
With record attendance, giving records were broken to secure the Garden Experience for future Griffins We officially launched the Centennial Fund for the Future. Click HERE to learn more and get involved in this multiyear campaign.
We are grateful to our Gala Co-Chairs Elizabeth Crum-Barr P’31, ’36 and Matthew Helsing ’17, and to all of our gala volunteers who supported this important event. Please mark your calendars, and we will see you at the next Gala.
2024-25 GARDEN GALA
Friday, April 25, 2025
7:00pm - Midnight Terrace on the Park | 52-11 111th St, Queens, NY 11368
al Gala 2024
Board of Trustees
OFFICERS
Michael Rakosi, President (Class of 1964), Avenue A Associates
Arthur Gruen, Ph.D., Vice President (Class of 1966), Wilkofsky Gruen Associates
Donald Berhang, Vice President (Class of 1971), Hazen and Sawyer
Vladmir Sulc, Treasurer (Current Parent), B&T Importing
Patricia Saxby, Secretary (Past Parent – Class of 2016), Bergdorf Goodman
MEMBERS
Emily Bienstock Belmonte (Class of 2004), City Marshal’s Office of NYC
Alex Castro (Current Parent), The New York Times
Jennifer Durst (Current Parent), The Cooper Union
Andrea Gere (Past Parent – Class of 2004), OT Holdings, LLC
Scott Haber, NDH Capital Corporation
Matthew Helsing (Class of 2017), Abacus Group, LLC
Christopher Herman, ex-officio, Head of School (Current Parent)
Morgan Mouchette (Current Parent), Blank Rome, LLP
Andrew Ramsaran (Class of 2000), NYPD
Hazel Roseboro (Past Parent – Class of 2022), University Heights HS
Joanne Steinhardt, Independent Artist
HONORARY MEMBERS
Helen Sears (Past Parent – Classes of 1975, 1978)
Benjamin Zwirn, JD (Class of 1969)
IN MEMORIUM
Margaret Batiuchok (Past Parent – Classes of 1965, 1969, 1971)
Ellen McPhillips Baumann, Past President (Class of 1959)
Elizabeth Guthrie (Class of 1959)
Michael Ricatto (Class of 1974)
Mitchell Slater (Class of 1979)
Community Leaders
Queensborough President Donovan Richards
We were honored to host Queensborough President Donovan Richards and his team to discuss education, highlighting his focus on schools, class sizes, STEM, and partnerships Last year, we welcomed Deputy Borough President Ebony Young for our Leadership panel, and this summer she joined Councilmembers Menin and Krishnan for a press conference on our swim program with Common Point Strong community partnerships are key to Garden’s success, and we’re grateful for the chance to collaborate with such influential leaders.
Council Member for District 25 Shekar Krishnan
It was a privilege to host Council Member Shekar Krishnan as he announced his partnership with Wave Makers for a $1 million citywide swimming program, with Jackson Heights as the first neighborhood to benefit The initiative offered 2,600-second graders across all five boroughs the opportunity to learn vital skills We’re grateful for his leadership in building a safer, stronger community
Rojas join us at our 23-24 Walk-a-Thon, walking up and down 34th Avenue to celebrate our Centennial year The event provided a special opportunity for our community to come together, express our gratitude to Jackson Heights, and celebrate a century of learning and growth at Garden
Community Leaders
Since it’s inception in 2022, Garden’s Community Resource Center (CRC) has hosted a number of virtual panels and workshops like Reading Readiness for Kindergarten, Navigating the College Process, What is Executive Functioning and more Andrew Hevesi ’91 has generously offered his expertise to Garden’s Community Resource Center by sitting on two expert panels, Early Childhood Education and Educational Leadership Panel.
New York State Assemblyman and Garden Alum Andrew Hevesi ’91
Staying open for our students and families
They say it takes a village, and in 2019, as a pandemic swept across the nation, that village was put to the ultimate test. Schools and daycares around the country were forced to close their doors, leaving families uncertain about their children's education and well-being.
Under the leadership of Mr Herman, and with the guidance of the Board of Trustees, we took decisive action Our team consulted with experts from the fields of epidemiology, public health, and education to ensure that we could continue to serve our students safely. There was no question: Garden had to remain open for its students and families. We recognized how critical it was to provide not just education, but a sense of stability and normalcy during such a turbulent time Our commitment to keeping the doors open was about more than just academic learning it was about providing a supportive community where families could find some reassurance amid the uncertainty
Staying open for our students and families
THE GRIFFIN IMPACT
’22 ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
OLIVIA PICHARDO
Olivia Pichardo graduated from Garden in 2022 She was the Class President, a member of The National Honors Society, a Varsity Basketball Captain, a Student Ambassador, and a member of the Diversity and KEY Clubs At Commencement, she earned the Gardenite Award and the Millevoi World Languages Medal Olivia matriculated to Brown University where she made history as the first female baseball player on an active NCAA Men’s Division 1 roster
Head Coach Grant Achilles stated in an interview with News from Brown, “Olivia put together the most complete walkon tryout I have seen from a player since becoming a head coach ” Pichardo openly discusses the adversities she faces as a female baseball player, sharing with Togetherx insights on media backlash after a video of her throwing went viral
She noted the comments, including claims that her strong arm was due to washing dishes and that women didn’t belong in baseball She writes on her website, “Each year, I would be told that the game I love would leave me behind ” However, Pichardo doesn’t let that slow her down, telling the MLB, “it's absolutely fuel,” when asked about experiencing bias.
Despite outside bias, Pichardo and Coach Achilles share that the players on her team have been nothing short of welcoming. Achilles told The Providence Journal, “They've embraced her. I'm really proud of our team.” Pichardo shared, “Everybody was super welcoming, and I really felt that from my teammates ”
In addition to her role at Brown, Pichardo is a member of the USA Baseball Women’s National Team, where she made an impact as a right-handed pitcher and outfielder She participated in the Summer 2022 Friendship Series against Team Canada in Thunder Bay, Ontario, where USA Baseball won the five-game series 3-2
Pichardo credits her father, Maximo Pichardo, a volunteer coach for her little league team, for her start in baseball He shares with TogetherX, “To say that I’m proud is an understatement ”
While she is a role model herself, she looks up to Elizabeth Benn, the highest-ranking woman in the New York Mets; Kim Ng, the general manager of the Miami Marlins; and Veronica Alvarez, who coaches for the Oakland A’s and the USA Baseball Women’s National Team.
THE GRIFFIN IMPACT STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
ALI ’24 STUDENT
PRESIDENT
“The most rewarding part of being President is seeing how the student body comes together to lift the spirit of the school. Events like homecoming, watching all the little kids get excited for the athletes, screaming their names and waving their handmade signs, to me, is the definition of a strong community ” - Ali
CLAIRE ’24
VICE PRESIDENT
“I’ve been here since 6th grade. It’s been a great experience seeing how the school has grown. With terrific staff, inspiring students, and being able to take the initiative to join clubs and play on teams, I’ve grown as a leader ” - Claire
Agustin Melara’s Journey to Garden FACULTY SPOTLIGHT THE GRIFFIN IMPACT
Twenty-four years ago, when then-Headmaster Richard Marotta offered Agustin Melara a full-time teaching position at Garden School, Melara didn’t hesitate. “I immediately jumped at the opportunity because I loved the school from the moment I walked in,” he recalls.
Joining Garden in 2000, Melara initially taught French before transitioning to Spanish Before that, he was offered the opportunity to teach French at his alma mater, Queens College, while pursuing his master’s degree in French Literature He would go on to teach at Queens College from 1996 to 2006
Melara’s journey at Garden began with a 10-week Saturday program, but it was after his first full week of school that he knew he had found his place "It was a Friday, a beautiful day And as I'm walking outside, some of the kids recognized me already,” he said, “and just like that, the students’ words of 'Hi, Mr Melara' it brought it all together for me this was the place I wanted to be."
Melara’s love for language began long before his teaching career. At 10 years old, he immigrated from El Salvador, speaking only Spanish. He was amazed when a family friend mentioned she was learning French in the United States, sparking his own desire to learn the language. With perseverance and the influence of dedicated teachers, he went on to win the prestigious Leo Bernardo Award, recognizing his excellence in foreign languages
In the classroom, Melara’s teaching style is marked by a slight sense of humor and a careful balance of respect and fun He emphasizes cultural integration in language learning, surrounding his students with symbols of the cultures they study traditional pottery, an Eiffel Tower replica, and a piñata are just a few of the items that fill his classroom
His commitment to cultural immersion extends beyond the classroom walls, as he’s led students on trips to Cuba, Peru, Puerto Rico, France, and Costa Rica This year, Garden students will have the opportunity to travel to Portugal and Spain
Melara is proud of how Garden’s language program has evolved over the last twenty years, particularly its early introduction of languages to students, including Mandarin "It’s all about creating an environment where language and culture come alive for the students," he says.
The world language program at Garden emphasizes an empathic understanding of the entire culture. Melara believes, “As language teachers, we have that responsibility not just to teach the grammar, but also the culture. Because in the end, if anything, you want students to at least develop an appreciation for the culture.” His vision for the future includes offering students more language choices and continuing to build a comprehensive program where students can flourish
Traveling Through Time with Sarah Smith O’Sullivan FACULTY SPOTLIGHT THE GRIFFIN IMPACT
If money were no object, Sarah O’Sullivan would ensure that Garden School had its own plane not just to transport students across the globe, but through time itself. As a history teacher, O’Sullivan is passionate about bringing history to life, and there’s no better way, she believes, than by standing where history happened.
From the ruins of Machu Picchu to the vibrant streets of Jackson Heights, O’Sullivan’s mission is to make the past tangible and ignite a sense of wonder in her students
O’Sullivan has taken students all over the world, being on every international trip for her first 18 years at Garden Her favorite student trip was 10 years ago in Peru “Seeing our students embrace being in a rugged area, getting dirty, interacting with the local Peruvians in that area of the Andes that was a real highlight,” says O’Sullivan
As a Long Island native, O’Sullivan is grateful for the diversity that teaching in Jackson Heights offers When she first started teaching at Garden, she remembers being surprised by students' deep knowledge of international news “I was teaching a fourth-grade class,” O’Sullivan says, “and for whatever reason, India and Pakistan came up, and students had very strong opinions in the fourth grade As a Long Islander, I was like, ‘Wait, what?’ It was a real eye-opener.”
Over the last 25 years, O’Sullivan has stayed true to her teaching philosophy. However, there has been one big shift in teaching the use of technology and artificial intelligence. Balancing traditional methods with digital tools has been challenging, but she embraces the change. As students get more advanced technology, so do teachers. She uses Google Docs to gain insights into students' collaboration, work ethic, and even sleeping patterns
O’Sullivan treasures the relationships she’s built with students over the years “When you have conversations with kids in your classroom, and then 10 years later they're doing it It's absolutely incredible,” she notes
Looking ahead, O’Sullivan is eager to continue evolving her approach to teaching history, integrating new technologies and interdisciplinary methods to keep her students engaged She aims to ensure that her students leave Garden with a deep appreciation for the complexities of history and the ability to think critically about the world around them As she embarks on her next chapter at Garden, O’Sullivan is excited to continue exploring new ways to make history relevant and inspiring for the next generation of learners
THE 1923
FACULTY SPOTLIGHT THE GRIFFIN IMPACT
Brendan O’Shea: Building Excellence from the Ground Up
Brendan O’Shea, Director of Athletics at Garden, brings a unique blend of positivity and high expectations to his role. His coaching philosophy centers on encouragement coupled with a firm commitment to helping students reach their full potential.
O’Shea emphasizes the importance of responsibility in athletic development, from punctuality and equipment management to maintaining open communication with coaches and teammates He believes these habits not only enhance athletic performance but also positively influence other areas of the young athletes’ lives
Building upon the strong foundation established by his predecessors, O’Shea is committed to providing students with a truly holistic "athlete experience " His vision is to cultivate an environment where students can excel not only academically but also athletically, giving them the tools to thrive in both arenas O’Shea is focused on identifying exceptional young talent, both locally and internationally, who are seeking an independent school experience that combines rigorous academics with diverse athletic opportunities. By attracting highly motivated students, he aims to create a dynamic community where achievement in the classroom and on the field go hand in hand.
Garden’s 30 varsity, junior varsity, middle school athletic teams, and intramural teams have expanded options for our students and cultivated an inclusive sports program But the success of the program requires a certain mentality O’Shea has collaborated with the Division Heads as well as the Arts Department to ensure a balance in the schedule By doing this, he has been able to extend practice times, include more games, including non-league matches and tournaments and expanded our coaching staff to further enrich the program
Before joining Garden, O’Shea worked in advertising sales, but found the office environment unfulfilling This led him to pursue a graduate degree in sports and business management, taking him to various college athletic departments, including Fordham University, Iona College, and Manhattanville These experiences have helped him hone his skills and deepen his passion for coaching
“Ultimately, I wanted to be in a school like Garden to have that connection with kids and be able to build a program of my own and work with coaches to do so,” he says. As he looks to the future, O’Shea remains focused on fostering an environment where every student-athlete can thrive, both on and off the field.
Garden Over the Years
by William Vogel P’05, ’12, ’14, Lower Division Head
In life, we celebrate many milestones. For Garden School, last year marked year 100. For me, this year marks my 48th year at this wonderful school. People often ask if many things have changed.
Buildings and decor have changed In these, we delight as a more modern feel permeates campus with signs of technology, new workspaces, and a strong emphasis on science, drama, media, and the arts Some smaller, more intimate learning spaces speak to further increases in options while remaining personalized and fostering teamwork. Some may say getting more while rethinking usage.
Curriculum offerings have expanded to include enriched activities such as robotics, engineering, and more health and fitness Core subjects also include Mandarin as a language choice alongside French and Spanish Art and music electives have increased to meet student interests, while sporting options for individuals and teams have been enhanced
To make all these opportunities available to our students, daily schedules have been restructured and early morning and after-school hours have lengthened some students’ days Garden’s transportation system makes possible a smoother arrival and dismissal time, especially with the addition of a robust early childhood program, now beginning with two-year-olds Plus, we have partnered with the NYC Department of Education to offer classes in 3K and PKFA, necessitating the leasing of additional Northern Blvd space adjacent to our campus.
During these years I have had the pleasure of partnering with three heads of school (Mr Bill Hughes, Dr Richard Marotta, and now Mr Chris Herman), while many of our fellow NYSAIS institutions have had so many more This longevity is in tribute to the dedication, loyalty, and established bonds of comfort and collegiality It has been an honor to know many dedicated faculty members who are professionals staying current with learning initiatives while honing their own crafts.
THE 1923
Needless to say, many fine attributes have remained throughout the years. Our student body, while more diverse, comes from families truly dedicated to the independent tradition of our school: small classes in a small school, with rigorous academics and opportunities for enrichment with much personal attention Our Trustees continue to volunteer countless hours to support Garden’s Mission while seeking to increase resources to shepherd the school forward while supporting leadership and keeping tuition as affordable as possible for families. Most importantly, there remains at Garden a strong desire to look forward with vision, to think strategically, and to continue to attract those who wholeheartedly believe that children can succeed while honoring the legacy of tradition
It has been my privilege to know this fine institution, to serve ambitiously, and to be so proud of my own three children having graduated from Garden along with countless other alums To Garden School, our hearts are bound forever!
William Vogel through the years...
From the Desk of Brad Battaglia
As Garden School looks towards its next hundred years, we want to share how our graduates are faring in the college admissions process. As you have likely heard, undergraduate admissions today are more competitive than ever. Below is a snapshot of how much things have changed in the last 30+ years
Number of Applications received by UCLA in 2023 . . . 173,400.
With this in mind, Brad Battaglia, Director of College Counseling at Garden School, works with students, parents, and the school community to get to know the admissions processes of today and how best to prepare applications that lead to successful outcomes. First and foremost, each student and family is met on a personal level to determine their goals, concerns, and preferences from everything to intended major and financial considerations to student club opportunities and housing options. From these meetings, a college list is prepared and steps are taken to prepare each application to be as strong as possible Given the unpredictable nature of admissions, students now apply to more schools than ever before, with seniors regularly submitting applications to upwards of 15 schools
Historically, and in recent years, students at Garden have been accepted to numerous fantastic schools and met with great success on college campuses. Most importantly, the Garden School counseling office continues to focus on finding good fit institutions for our graduates, knowing happiness is at the heart of college success
Brad Battaglia
Upper Division Head & Director of College Counseling
American University
Bard College
Barnard College
Baruch College
Beloit College
Bennington College
Bentley University
Binghamton University
Boston College
Boston University
Brandeis University
Brown University
Case Western Reserve University
Columbia University
Connecticut College
Cooper Union
Cornell University
Drexel University
Duke University
Earlham College
Emory University
Fordham University
Franklin & Marshall College
George Washington University
Hobart & William Smith Colleges
Hofstra University
Howard University
Indiana University
Ithaca College
Kenyon College
Lehigh University
Macaulay Honors CUNY
Mannes College The New School for Music
Mount Holyoke College
Muhlenberg College
New York University
Northeastern University
Northwestern University
Oberlin College
Penn State University
Pepperdine University
Pratt Institute
Princeton University
Quinnipiac University
Rutgers University
Savannah College of Art & Design
Skidmore College
Smith College
St John's University
Stevens Institute of Technology
Stony Brook University
SUNY Geneseo
Syracuse University
The Juilliard School
The School of Visual Arts
Tulane University
Union College
University at Buffalo University of California - Irvine
University of California - Los Angeles
University of Colorado Boulder
University of Connecticut
University of Delaware
University of Florida
University of Massachusetts
University of Michigan
University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill
University of Pittsburgh
University of Puget Sound
University of Redlands
University of Richmond
University of Rochester
University of San Francisco
University of Southern California
University of Vermont
University of Virginia
University of Washington
University of Wisconsin
Vassar College
Wake Forest University
Washington University in St Louis
Wellesley College
Wesleyan University
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Yale University
THE LEGACY EFFECT
Anny Buakaew ’95
Sydney Chiu ’24
Nicholas Wolstadt ’26
Elinor Reinhardt ’87
Chloe Kramer ’01
Emily Sohmer Tai ’77
WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP INITIATIVE THE 1923
In 2023, Garden began an initiative to launch young women entering ninth grade into the future with an eye on leadership, self-advocacy, and problem solving. Through the Women’s Leadership Initiative, an inaugural cohort of ten young women came together in powerful ways, experiencing the joy and camaraderie of a group and developed strong relationships. This cohort works on a central text together, hosts a guest speaker series, initiated a Big Sis-Little Sis program to promote positive relationships in grades 4-5-6, and engages in rich discussions.
Dr. Olivia Cuozzo ’12
Elinor Reinhardt ‘87 & P’26
Prithi Kanakamedala P’36
Morgan Mouchette P’35
ReimaginedSpacesonCampus
The Vertical Classroom for Pre-K (3/4) & Kindergarten got a new “sky-brary” this year
Many of our Lower Division classrooms now feature glass dividers between rooms, creating a more open and inclusive learning environment that supports collaboration across grade levels
The Michael “Mike” Ricatto ’74 Science Lab opened Fall 2022
ReimaginedSpacesonCampus
The Turner Family Arts Center and the Hsiao-Koeppel Music Studio for the Upper Division, and the Shaffer Family Arts Suite for the Lower Division opened in the Fall of 2023
InsidetheClassroom
Garden encourages curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking, allowing students to explore subjects deeply and apply their knowledge to real-world situations. By emphasizing collaboration, hands-on experiences, and personalized learning, our classrooms are places where students are active participants in their own education Whether engaging in problem-solving tasks or collaborative projects, students are guided to think independently, communicate effectively, and develop a life-long love of learning.
OntheStageandIntheMusic&ArtStudios
Across grade levels, students explore how new media can enhance the creative process, experimenting with technology such as video, audio, interactive media, and visual arts like drawing and design to expand traditional forms of storytelling and expression. Through this, they engage with how the arts are evolving in the 21st century, considering how hybrid art forms are shaping the future of both performance and visual arts
THE 1923
GriffinAthletics
STEM
Garden School’s STEM program emphasizes handson, project-based learning, ensuring that students are not just passive learners but active participants in their education By engaging in these innovative projects, students develop a deep understanding of STEM concepts and are inspired to pursue further studies and careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics
Garden School’s athletics program fosters an environment of hard work, responsibility, sportsmanship, and growth Student-athletes begin learning team sports in physical education and 5th and 6th grade teams to prepare them for middle school, JV, and Varsity athletics
Griffins develop as a team to improve their leadership, communication, and accountability. Garden offers 30varsity, junior varsity, and middle school athletic teams, as well as intramural teams.
Clubs
Travel THE 1923
Clubs continue to be extremely popular at Garden School. Many of the student-led clubs have been around a long time, like KEY Club, Model United Nations, Radio Club, Diversity Club and the Cupola Yearbook Club. Each year new clubs are introduced Some of the newest additions include Sprinkles, Tabletop Gaming and Cooking Club A club fair is held each fall to introduce offerings to new and returning students Beyond the classroom, students enjoy the opportunity to pursue their passions and also explore new ones; being part of multiple clubs continues to be a trend
Garden School’s international travel program offers students unique opportunities to explore the world beyond the classroom Through carefully planned trips to culturally and historically significant destinations, students gain a deeper understanding of global perspectives, history, and geography
Past destinations include England, France, Ireland, Italy, Peru’s Machu Picchu, Senegal, Cuba, Puerto Rico, and more. This year, students will travel to Spain and Portugal.
Class Notes THE 1923
Class of 1979
lass of 2012
aCuozzomarried ottCeveraApril5 andcelebratedwith erGardenbesties ctoriaVogelHealy, MallikaWalia and JulianneNeuman!
MichèleVice-Maslin ‘79 Emmymaward-winningsongwriterand usicproducer recenthitwith acclaimedsmoothJazzR&B artistJonathanButler "Our BVoicesMatter"madetherecent illboardSmoothJazzNational Airplaymost-addedlist
AnthonyPedone’18 recentlygraduatedfrom PrincetonUniversityand hasstartedLawSchoolat FordhamLaw CongratulationsAnthony! Classof2018
Class of 2000 & 2004
EmilyTricaricoWilkinson ’04andAndrew Ramsaran’00withtheir familiesatthe InternationalNightMarket inQueens
Class of 1970
BarbaraLiSanti 70 returnstoGarden
Class of 2000, ‘03, ’04MetsgamewithEmily TricaricoWilkinson ’04,Stephanie Floriano’03and AndrewRamsaran’00
Class of 1958
JudyClarkeTurner CentennialGalaHonoree, reconnectedwith classmateJoyPollSteele ’58attheevent
Class of 1981
RichGoldandhis daughterssport Gardenmerchonhis birthday
Class of 1985
LaleKiziltug’85 connectswith
Mr Melaraand
Mr Gomisatthe UNBookstore
Contentcreatorof RighteousEatsandGarden alumJaekiChocompletes hissecondNYCMarathon! GoGriffins! Classof2007
Remembering
Charles Millevoi
1926-2024
Garden School was saddened to share the loss of a integral part of our community Mr Charlie Millevoi, who began teaching at Garden School in 1954, passed away this year at his home in East Hampton, NY at age 97 Teaching at Garden for nearly three decades, Charlie was beloved by his students
Born in 1926, Charlie grew up in Philadelphia, attended LaSalle, Temple, and the University of Havana He taught for several years in Philadelphia public schools before being hired by Henry Roberts at Garden. Here, he taught Spanish and Novel, and directed brilliant shows on the stage which was aptly named in his honor
“Instilled the joy -- and the discipline -- of reading 30 pages Monday-Thursday and 60 pages over the weekend He was an educator, thought provoker, a foodie, and opera aficionado,” members of the Class of 1979 shared
Richard Grusky Remembering
1940-2024
Garden School was saddened to share e oss o a co . . c a d G us y, o bega teaching at Garden School in 1969, passed away at age 83 Teaching at Garden for over five decades, Mr. Grusky was treasured by his students.
Born in 1940, Richard attended Catholic University, Manhattan College, and New School for Social Research to study Political Science. He taught first at Bishop Bradley High School in Manchester, New Hampshire, and St. Augustine High School in Brooklyn, before being hired by Melvin Fischer at Garden Over his long career here, he taught Political Philosophy, Revolution and Terrorism, and a range of APs among other courses
Mr Grusky wore many hats during his tenure, serving for a time as Upper Division Principal and even as Acting Head He led the student council, served as senior class advisor, and chaired the History & Social Sciences Department. Mr. Grusky was instrumental in coordinating the storied prom at the glamorous St Regis and his formal dinners he hosted each year for seniors, complete with crystal glasses and served on fine china; he always endeavored to show students how to appreciate the finer things in life.
Giving to Garden THE 1923
When you contribute to Garden, you provide transformative opportunities for every Garden student Garden School has flourished over 100 years thanks to the philanthropy of parents, alumni, grandparents, parents of alumni, faculty, staff, and friends. Gifts of all sizes have a direct impact on the excellence of our school.
Giving Opportunities...
The Centennial Fund: Driven by community and innovation, the Centennial Campaign is our comprehensive effort to develop new facilities designed to make the Garden experience the pinnacle of learning (Learn more: https://gardenschool org/centennialfund/)
The Garden Fund: Our premiere fundraising initiative, The Garden Fund, is essential for enriching the experiences of our students and their families Contributions to this fund are a vital part of the resources we rely on (Learn more: https://gardenschool org/donate/)
Centennial Fund for the Future THE 1923
Phase I
In Phase I, we continue the rapid campus upgrades we started when we launched the Road to 100 Strategic Plan Taking the wall down between rooms 29 and 30, we’ll create a spacious Engineering and Robotics Lab Imagine entering the school, with the new Mike Ricatto Lab on your left and a state-of-the-art Robotics Lab on the right Here, students will take STEM to the next level with sophisticated technology, advanced computer science, and design using tools like 3D printers and laser cutters.
This Phase also includes the reimagining of the Roberts Library This is the heart of the school, and it is time to upgrade it, so it may serve as a future-focused media center where students learn 21st-century skills using 21stcentury tools Finally, to complement all this work focused on the future, this phase also includes the historic preservation of our original schoolhouse The entrance and Marottta Hall, have welcomed students since 1927, and repairing it will pay tribute to our past
Centennial Fund for the Future
Phase II
In Phase II, we will further enhance the large gathering common spaces of the William Poll Dining Room and the Courtyard We imagine a renovation of the Poll Dining Room that includes flexible seating, service stations focused on sustainability, and a new kitchen that includes a teaching area for students to explore culinary arts Stepping out of the Dining Room, one enters a reimagined Courtyard where students and staff enjoy a peaceful sanctuary with four-season seating and an outdoor performance space
The Courtyard will be decked and planted with an eye on groundwater management and a focus on flora indigenous to Queens In addition to these large communal areas, this phase will include upgrades to infrastructure and WIFI, the installation of Smart TVs in every classroom, and tripling the number of devices such as laptops for students and staff
Centennial Fund for the Future
Phase III
In the final phase of our campaign, we look again to common spaces For generations, Garden has imagined a rooftop play space on the Lower Division building, and we intend to bring this dream to life More than just a playground, this area will include an outdoor science lab with partial cover, a teaching station, and seating This space, overlooking Travers Park, will serve multiple purposes with equipment for play and learning.
Looking North from the rooftop, you find our next focus, a new pool. The pool was an important investment decades ago, and it is time to replace it and enhance the area with new decking, partial covering for three-season use, and changing rooms. Then over on the other side of campus, we will wrap up the campaign by replacing the front playground, blacktop, and basketball court
Ways to Give THE 1923
Donate On-Line
Garden School accepts Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express. Click Centennial Fund for the Future to make your gift today.
By Check
If you wish to donate by check, please make checks payable to: Garden School
c/o Centennial Fund for the Future 33-16 79th Street Jackson Heights, NY 11372
Corporate Matching Gifts
Many corporations offer matching gift programs that can double or triple the value of your gift to Garden! Many employers will also match contributions by spouses, retirees, and trustees Please contact your HR or Community Relations department office for eligibility information and matching gift forms.
Appreciated Securities
Securities such as stocks, bonds, and mutual funds not only make a wonderful gift but the tax savings to the donor can be significant. If you are interested in donating appreciated securities please contact the Advancement Team.
IRA Charitable Rollovers
If you are 70 1/2 or older, you can donate directly from your traditional or Roth IRA to Garden School, up to $100,000. If you have also reached your required beginning date, this can be a strategic way to fulfill your required minimum distribution (RMD) for the year while potentially reducing your taxable income, as the donated amount may satisfy all or part of your RMD obligation.
Instruct your financial institution to make the check payable to: Garden School EIN 11-1631783 and mail it to: Garden School, 33-16 79th Street, Jackson Heights, NY 11372
Donor-Advised Fund (DAF)
A Donor-Advised Fund (DAF) is a charitable savings account that offers you the flexibility to support organizations important to you, like Garden School, while receiving favorable tax benefits Please make a grant today through your online DAF account or by contacting your fund manager
Planned Giving
Donors who share their gift plans with us are inducted into the Garden Society of 1923. Membership in the Society is based not on the size of your gift, but on your willingness to share the details of your thoughtful provision for Garden through your will, trust, or other gift planning vehicle. Joining the Society does not represent a legally binding agreement, and you are free to change your plans at any time. If you would like to notify us of your gift planning intentions for Garden, please contact the Advancement Office ksullivan@gardenschool.org.
Garden School is a registered 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit organization (Tax ID #11-1631783) Contributions made to Garden School are tax deductible as allowed by law
Centennial Bricks
Mr. James Pigman, a beloved member of the Garden staff for over forty years created the 100/$100 Club. To join the Club, Garden Alumni committed to give $100 annually for five years to have their name and class inscribed in brick and placed in the front walkway leading up to the school’s entrance. The popularity of the bricks grew and over time, bricks were purchased in honor of various staff members and friends of Garden.
In honor of Garden’s 100th Anniversary, we are BRINGING BACK THE BRICKS!
Who made an impact on your Garden experience? Was it a teacher, a coach, or a club advisor? Was it a best friend or a family member? Was it someone who inspired your love of literature? Or was it someone who taught you how to play volleyball? Perhaps someone who brought you on your first international trip?
Purchase a Centennial Brick on behalf of yourself, your family, or dedicate it to someone who impacted your Garden experience and it will be placed in the new Centennial Walkway in front of the school Dollars raised will be added to the Centennial Fund for the Future.
Centennial bricks can be purchased in one payment for $500, or alumni may find that an annual gift of $100 to a be a great way to start building your philanthropic relationship with your alma mater. Click HERE to make your purchase today.
Gear Up Garden THE 1923
Shop at gardenschool org/swag to gear up and show off your Griffin pride
We are excited to introduce two collections designed by Garden students This year our schoolwide theme is Service and Gratitude and we want to thank alumna Luna S ’24 for designing a special t-shirt that embraces the 2425 theme We want to also thank senior Claire O ’25 for submitting her designs to the Garden Merch Store
This year, we’re also launching a retro collection to honor our alumni and celebrate Garden School’s rich history. This special line will showcase our legacy in style and offer a nod to the traditions that have shaped our school.
