MISSION
At Glenelg Country School, our mission is to cultivate a diverse community of learners who discover, contribute, thrive, and excel.
ACCREDITATION
Glenelg Country School is accredited, age two through twelfth grade, by the Association of Independent Maryland & DC Schools (AIMS) and by the Middle States Association of Schools and Colleges (MSA).
The School is affiliated with the Association of Independent Maryland & DC Schools (AIMS), the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), and the Educational Records Bureau (ERB).
HEAD OF SCHOOL
Matt Walsh
EDITOR
Danielle Peterson
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sheena Jordan, Danielle Peterson, Joseph A. Sierzega Jr., and Aaron Tolentino
DESIGN
Danielle Peterson
PHOTOGRAPHY
Darrin Allen, Danielle Peterson, Whitney Wasson, and Classic Photography
© 2025 Glenelg Country School
Please direct questions and comments to communications@glenelg.org.
12793 Folly Quarter Road
Ellicott City, Maryland 21042 glenelg.org
410.531.8600
Fifth-grade students take a break from class to enjoy sledding behind the Manor House in January.
FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL
As we all know, GCS is a very special place. Danielle Peterson’s piece, “GCS through the Eyes of Alumni” illuminates the unique impact of the GCS experience. It features the insights of Greg Koffel ’03, associate head of school for programs and student life, and David Berg ’07, human resources and payroll administrator. While GCS has continued to improve facilities and evolve programmatically in important ways, Greg and David do a wonderful job of describing those timeless attributes that make us who we are.
As the title of this edition suggests, working in a school is a future-oriented, legacybuilding enterprise. Although we know our influence is profound and lasting, we often don’t exactly know what shape that influence may ultimately take. I imagine faculty and staff who supported Greg and David in their development as students (several of whom are still here!), take enormous satisfaction in seeing them join the continuum of talented educators and administrators who have supported and strengthened the school since our founding in 1954.
A key figure in that continuum, of course, is Kevin Boland, who joined GCS back in 1977 as a fifth-grade teacher and has served as Middle School head for many years. Kevin’s article provides a wonderful overview of the Middle School experience at GCS, highlighting our comprehensive approach that goes beyond core academics to also emphasize the essential values of respect, responsibility, and an appreciation for diversity, equity, and inclusion, which are conveyed in our classrooms, on our playing fields, and in the realm of the arts.
In the latter connection, the piece on our fall performing arts productions covers how our Middle and Upper School students skillfully performed two very different types of productions. Active engagement in the arts goes far beyond an entertaining showcase of students’ talent and allows our students to develop confidence, empathy, and teamwork skills along the way. Teamwork and collaboration also figure prominently in Sheena Jordan’s article, “Creating a Communal Legacy.” Sheena describes our new Council of Clubs in the Upper School, which brings together leaders from each of our clubs in an intentional way to explore opportunities to further develop their clubs and their activities while looking for opportunities to collaborate with other club leaders in organizing events, joint efforts, and the occasional fundraiser.
This edition concludes with coverage of an outstanding fall athletic season that included playoff runs for four of our five team sports, an MIAA C Conference Championship for boys cross country, and a singles IAAM C Conference tennis championship win for sophomore Zoe Taylor ’27! In short, “Cultivating the Future” shows us, yet again, the value of the GCS experience in preparing our students for life’s journey. As always, I wish you happy reading in exploring the pages herein.
MATT WALSH
FROM STUDENTS TO STAFF: GCS THROUGH THE EYES OF ALUMNI
By Danielle Peterson DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS
As Glenelg Country School celebrates its 70th anniversary, it’s more than just a milestone; it’s a reflection of an enduring legacy of community, growth, and tradition. Among its many achievements, the school boasts a unique hallmark: the return of alumni as staff members. Their stories provide a window into Glenelg Country’s transformative power, where students not only thrive but often feel compelled to return and contribute to its future.
Greg Koffel ’03 vividly recalls the fall of 1997 when he first joined Glenelg Country School (GCS) as a seventh-grade student. “That year, we celebrated the opening of the Middle School building with a parade led by a bagpiper,” he reminisced. “It was a moment of progress and tradition coming together.” For Koffel, those early days symbolized the essence of GCS: a community that values both growth and connection.
Koffel’s journey at GCS was marked by a culture of belonging and respect. He fondly remembers the dedicated teachers and coaches who saw the potential in every student. “Every student mattered,” he shared. “That sense of being valued created a culture of belonging and mutual respect.” These formative experiences left a lasting impression, shaping his decision to return as a math teacher in 2016.
Returning to GCS as a staff member offered a new perspective. “Every morning, driving in and seeing the sunrise over the campus, I’m reminded of the beauty and sense of purpose this place inspires,” Koffel said. While he’s witnessed significant changes—such as the Upper School nearly doubling in size—he finds comfort in the school’s enduring traditions, like the Upper School Forum and the Halloween Parade. These constants, he believes, anchor GCS’s identity while it evolves.
David Berg ’07 found a fresh start at GCS when he joined in seventh grade. Coming from a public middle school where he struggled to find support, Berg discovered a nurturing environment at Glenelg Country. “What stood out most during my first year was the individualized attention and genuine support from my teachers,” he reflected. “They took the time to understand my academic needs and guided me through difficult concepts.”
Berg’s experience as a student was transformative, instilling a deep sense of community and belonging. Today, as a human resources and payroll administrator, he embraces the opportunity to “give back to the community that helped me discover my potential.” Working alongside former teachers as peers has been a surreal but rewarding experience. “It’s comforting to now support the educators who once guided me,” Berg shared.
Like Koffel, Berg marvels at GCS’s growth and adaptability. He’s particularly impressed by the integration of modern technology and innovative programs, such as the Innovation Lab. Yet, he finds that the school’s essence remains unchanged. “The sense of community and the feeling of belonging are as strong as ever,” he said. “The beautiful campus and the caring faculty have always been at the heart of Glenelg Country School.”
Both Koffel and Berg agree that Glenelg Country School’s strength lies in its ability to balance tradition with innovation. Koffel reflects on the school’s commitment to values that transcend generations. “GCS is rooted in community, inclusivity, and valuing the individual,” he said. These principles have remained steadfast even as the school expands its programs and facilities.
Berg, too, envisions a bright future for GCS. He’s excited about the school’s plans for campus expansion and hopes it will continue to evolve while maintaining its core values. “Over the next 70 years, I can imagine GCS leading in cutting-edge programs across arts, academics, athletics, and service,” he said. “But most importantly, I hope it
remains a place where students discover, contribute, and thrive.”
Koffel and Berg’s reflections also highlight the unique aspects of Glenelg that foster such deep loyalty. Both describe the strong personal relationships formed between students and teachers. “At GCS, you’re not just a face in the crowd,” Koffel explained. “You’re part of a community where your voice matters and your presence is valued.” Berg echoed this sentiment, sharing how teachers such as Elisabeth Worthington and Brian Hudgins—who both still teach in the Upper School—inspired his growth in unexpected ways. “They didn’t just teach subjects; they cultivated critical thinking, curiosity, and creativity,” he said.
This sense of belonging extends beyond the classroom. The school’s traditions, from the Halloween Parade to the All-School Relay, have created a shared identity that unites generations of Dragons. Even as facilities grow and technology transforms the learning experience, these traditions serve as reminders of the school’s enduring mission: to nurture individuals and foster a sense of purpose.
Inset: Greg Koffel’s senior year photo in 2003. Greg Koffel in his office in the Upper School in 2025.
For alums who return as staff, the transition brings a deeper appreciation for the work behind the scenes. Koffel, now the associate head of academic programs and student life, admits to being impressed by the dedication of faculty and administrators to creating an environment where students can thrive. “As a student, you don’t realize just how much effort goes into maintaining such a vibrant community,” he said. “Now, as a teacher, I see it firsthand, and it’s humbling.” Berg added that working alongside his former teachers has given him a new perspective. “It’s a privilege to now support the educators who had such an impact on my life,” he said.
Looking to the future, Koffel and Berg are optimistic about what lies ahead for Glenelg Country. They envision continued innovation in academic programs, arts, and athletics, paired with a steadfast commitment to the school’s core values. “GCS has always been about more than just education,” Koffel noted. “It’s about preparing students to lead lives of purpose, integrity, and impact.”
As Glenelg Country School looks to its next chapter, it does so with a strong foundation built on decades of tradition
and community. Stories of alums like Koffel and Berg illustrate the profound impact of its mission. These are not just tales of personal success; they are testaments to the transformative power of a school that believes in the potential of every individual.
Returning to Glenelg Country as a staff member is more than a career choice for many alums; it’s a way to contribute to a shared purpose. “GCS is more than a school; it’s a community that shapes lives,” Koffel said. And for Koffel, the opportunity to teach his sons in the Lower School at GCS adds an even deeper layer of meaning. “It’s come full circle,” he said. “I get to watch my children experience the same incredible opportunities I had.”
Seventy years in, GCS remains a place where students and staff alike are encouraged to discover their potential and embrace their shared purpose. With a legacy rooted in community and an eye toward innovation, the school’s future is as bright as ever, inspiring the Dragons of today and tomorrow. n
Inset: David Berg’s senior year photo in 2007. David Berg in his office in the cottage behind the Manor House in 2025.
PREPARING FOR THE FUTURE: A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO MIDDLE SCHOOL EDUCATION
By Kevin Boland MIDDLE SCHOOL HEAD
How do we cultivate the future of middle school students to be adaptive, resilient, and well-prepared for what lies ahead? Beginning with a multi-faceted approach that integrates respect, responsibility, and the practice of using good judgment is essential. Combined with a challenging academic program that includes core subjects, STEAM, arts, athletics, and electives, all contribute to global citizenship and various leadership opportunities. This development, with the daily support of faculty, is essential in preparing students not only for academic success but also for their roles as responsible, engaged members of society.
At its core, preparing students to face the challenges in the real world are the values of respect and responsibility. Middle school is a critical time for students as they begin to form their identities and understand their roles within the community. At Glenelg Country School (GCS), we foster respect by encouraging students to appreciate diverse backgrounds through collaborative projects that require teamwork and communication and lead to valuing the contributions of others.
Teachers who promote accountability instill responsibility through classroom management strategies, such as meeting assignment deadlines, preparing for an oral class presentation, or simply keeping the classroom orderly and safe. Students should feel empowered to act ethically and consider the effect of their actions on others.
STEAM education is important in preparing students for future careers and fosters critical thinking skills. Engaging students in hands-on STEAM activities can spark their interest in other fields. In eighth-grade STEAM classes, designing a simple locker shelf sparked some students’ interest in interior design and graphic design.
In addition to STEAM, the arts are vital components of a well-rounded education. Participation in the arts fosters creativity and self-expression, allowing students to explore their identities and emotions. Glenelg Country encourages involvement in various artistic endeavors such as music, theater, and visual arts, enhancing student confidence and teamwork skills. Students who opted not to take the stage
for the fall production of Annie Jr. could instead help with props, scenery, lighting, choreography, and costumes.
Athletics also play a significant role in developing future leadership qualities while promoting physical health. Beyond team sports, “life sports” such as badminton, pickleball, golf, tennis, and dodgeball allow students to recognize the value of staying active well into adulthood. GCS creates an inclusive athletic program in the Middle School that includes all skill levels, provides choice, and ensures that every student can participate and benefit from physical activity.
As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, instilling a sense of global citizenship in students is essential. Teachers promote awareness of global issues through discussion, projects, and servicelearning opportunities. Eighth-grade students are involved in a senior citizen project where they sit down with seniors to discuss historical topics and gain a unique perspective in their live interviews. Service learning in the Middle School involves visits to Little Portion Farm, Cedar Lane School, and Heartlands Senior Center. These field trips help students better understand their role in the larger context—our shared purpose as citizens of the world—and encourage them to think critically about social justice and the environment.
Cultivating positive leadership skills is crucial for middle school students. In the Middle School, it is especially important to offer programs that focus on developing leadership qualities such as empathy, communication, and decision-making. Opportunities for student leadership include student council, athletics, and peer mentoring programs, which allow students to practice these skills in real-life situations. Creating an environment where students can lead and support each other can help them develop into confident and responsible future leaders.
Emotional intelligence is increasingly recognized as a crucial component of middle school education. Having the ability to recognize, understand, and manage one’s own emotions—as well as the ability to empathize with others— is part of the development of emotional intelligence.
Connections classes help develop the skillset students need to face numerous social, emotional, and academic challenges. One of the primary benefits of emotional intelligence in education is its positive impact on academic performance. Students with high emotional intelligence exhibit better self-regulation and focus, essential for effective learning. It allows students to manage their emotions and impulses, stay engaged in their studies,
and manage their emotions and distractions. Students are better adapted to handle setbacks because they develop effective coping strategies so as not to be overwhelmed. Fostering a growth mindset in middle school students allows them to see failures as opportunities for learning rather than insurmountable obstacles.
Parents can also play a vital role in supporting the school’s efforts to instill a love of learning in students. By encouraging extracurricular activities, maintaining good communication with the teachers, and providing emotional support, parents can significantly enhance their children’s educational experience.
To keep our students on the cutting edge with curriculum, technology, academics, arts, and extracurricular activities, Glenelg Country strives to keep pace with technology advancements, such as interactive tools that promote engagement and collaboration. This includes using artificial intelligence, social media, and the exploration of working with peers globally on complex concepts in science and history through interactive experiences. The Middle School continues to provide students with opportunities to engage in project-based learning and foster creativity in the arts. By promoting collaborative learning environments and flexible classroom designs, students work together and collaborate on projects, which in turn promotes teamwork and good communication skills.
By utilizing data-driven instruction, teachers can provide areas for student improvement and adjust their teaching accordingly. GCS ensures students receive the support they need to succeed and stay engaged in their learning.
Lastly, establishing partnerships with local businesses, organizations, and higher education institutions can enhance opportunities for students. These partnerships can provide resources, mentorship, and real-world experiences that enrich the curriculum and every student’s GCS journey.
To keep our students on the cutting edge and deliver on our mission to discover, contribute, thrive, and excel, we must continue to integrate technology, emphasize strong student communication, build community partnerships and collaboration, and encourage lifelong learning. Our future vision of the Middle School, and GCS as whole, must always be to prepare students for success in an everchanging world. n
A SEASON OF TALENT: FALL PRODUCTIONS AT GCS
By Danielle Peterson DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS
Glenelg Country School’s stages came alive this fall with two remarkable productions showcasing the depth of talent and dedication within its Upper and Middle Schools. From the poignant exploration of genius and mental health in David Auburn’s “Proof” to the heartwarming and timeless charm of “Annie, Jr.,” students demonstrated their passion for the performing arts and captivated audiences.
The Upper School’s production of “Proof”, a Pulitzer Prizewinning drama by David Auburn, invited audiences into the intricate dynamics of family, intellect, and trust. The play centers on Catherine, a young woman grappling with the legacy of her brilliant but mentally ill father. As she struggles to prove her own mathematical abilities and her grasp on reality, themes of love, loss, and self-discovery come to the forefront.
The student performers delivered stirring portrayals that captured the emotional complexity of Auburn’s characters. The lead role of Catherine was handled with grace and intensity, bringing the audience into her internal conflict. Supporting cast members brought depth to their roles, enhancing the tension and tenderness of the narrative. The chemistry between the characters—whether fraught or familial—was palpable, drawing the audience deeper into the story’s layered themes.
A minimalist yet evocative set design that reflected the play’s introspective tone further elevated the production. The strategic use of lighting highlighted emotional peaks
and added depth to pivotal moments. Together, these elements created an immersive experience that left audiences pondering the play’s central questions long after the final bow.
“I’m so incredibly proud of the work of the cast,” said the school’s theater director, Cassandra Christensen. “I knew if I set a high bar, they could rise to the occasion. It was incredible to watch them give such a nuanced performance and have a deeper understanding of the text. They did an incredible job working diligently and creatively together, and the team building and camaraderie was truly special.”
In contrast, the Middle School’s production of “Annie, Jr.” brought joy and energy to the stage with a beloved story that has enchanted audiences for decades. A condensed adaptation of the iconic Broadway musical, the musical follows the adventures of a spirited orphan determined to find her family amid the backdrop of the Great Depression. With songs like “Tomorrow” and “Hard Knock Life,” the musical celebrates hope, resilience, and community.
The Middle School cast, brimming with enthusiasm, brought an infectious energy to their performances. From the charismatic young actress in the title role to the ensemble of orphans who belted their numbers with gusto, the production was a joyful showcase of budding talent. Each performer embraced their character, infusing the stage with personality and charm. The interactions between Annie and other characters, from the cantankerous Miss Hannigan to
the warm-hearted Daddy Warbucks, were engaging and heartfelt, adding depth to the classic tale.
The colorful costumes and lively choreography added to the production’s charm, creating a feast for the senses that delighted audiences of all ages. The iconic songs were performed with enthusiasm and precision, bringing smiles and even a few tears to those in the audience. Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of students and faculty worked tirelessly to perfect every detail, from set transitions to sound cues, ensuring a seamless and professional performance.
“The Middle School musical is a special journey for the cast. It’s very special to get to work with newer performers and it was fantastic to watch them blossom on stage,” said Christensen. “There is a lot of growth between sixth grade and eighth grade, and seeing students develop their performing skills and confidence on stage is fantastic. Watching them collaborate across age groups and build lasting friendships is even better.”
Both productions highlighted Glenelg Country School’s commitment to fostering artistic expression and providing students with opportunities to explore the performing arts. Through their participation in these plays, students honed their theatrical skills and learned valuable lessons in teamwork, empathy, and perseverance.
The rehearsals, which spanned weeks, provided a chance for students to bond and develop a deeper appreciation for the collaborative nature of theatre. For many, these
experiences extended beyond the stage, fostering friendships and memories that will last a lifetime. Being part of the cast isn’t just about acting; it connects students with one another and fosters an understanding of the importance of working together to tell a powerful story.
The success of “Proof” and “Annie, Jr.” underscores the vibrant arts culture at Glenelg Country School, where creativity and talent flourish in every corner. From the directors who guide students through their performances to the parents and volunteers who support them behind the scenes, the school community’s collective effort ensures the success of every production. These shows are more than entertainment; they celebrate student potential.
For the students, the journey to opening night was one of growth and discovery. Through the production, students are given th opportunity to step out of their comfort zones and embrace their roles.
The anticipation for future performances has only grown as the curtains closed on these fall productions. Whether tackling thought-provoking dramas or uplifting musicals, the students of Glenelg Country School continue to inspire and impress, reminding us of the power of the arts to connect, challenge, and celebrate the human experience.
Looking ahead, the school’s theatre program shows no signs of slowing down. With plans for future productions already underway—including the Upper School’s production of “Mamma Mia” in March—students are eager to take on new roles, explore different genres, and continue pushing the boundaries of their creativity. Each performance is a testament to the dedication and passion that define Glenelg Country School’s arts community.
These productions not only highlight the school’s artistic achievements but also serve as a reflection of its broader educational philosophy. By encouraging students to engage deeply with the arts, Glenelg Country School fosters wellrounded individuals who are confident, empathetic, and prepared to lead in a complex world. Christensen explains, “Theatre at GCS is about more than putting on a great show—it’s about teaching students to express themselves, collaborate, and embrace challenges with creativity and courage.”
This season’s productions of “Proof” and “Annie, Jr.” have set a high bar for what’s to come. They stand as shining examples of the transformative power of theatre and the incredible talent of Glenelg Country School’s students. As the applause fades and the lights dim, the lessons and memories created on these stages will endure, inspiring a new generation of performers to take the spotlight. n
COUNCIL OF CLUBS: CREATING A COMMUNAL LEGACY
By Sheena Jordan DIRECTOR OF DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION, AND BELONGING
At Glenelg Country School (GCS), the future features opportunities for growth, innovation, and community building. As the educational landscape continues to evolve, GCS remains dedicated to preparing students for academic success and the challenges and rewards of collegiate life. This year, the Upper School introduced the Council of Clubs to strengthen the connection between student-led organizations while cultivating leadership opportunities that will thrive long after current leaders have graduated. The foundation for this initiative was laid through the Summer Leadership Institute, organized and facilitated by Sheena Jordan, director of diversity, Brian Shearer, director of community engagement, and Michael Trask, co-director of college counseling. During the training, club leaders honed their leadership skills, identified their purpose and passion for engaging in their respective clubs, and explored ideas for collaboration with future project planning. At the training’s conclusion, all club leaders were awarded certificates of achievement for their dedication to guiding their peers.
The Council of Clubs is key in organizing club activities, including events and fundraisers, while assisting clubs with their development. Providing an intentional space for collaboration encourages students to work together across interests and disciplines. This effort increases student
engagement and communication within the clubs, ensuring that every member has the opportunity to contribute and thrive. The Council meets once a month during lunch, allowing club leaders to share ideas, plan, and continue cultivating a community that reflects the diverse passions of our student body. With over 30 clubs, ranging from astronomy to pickleball, these efforts have helped create a dynamic environment where students can explore their interests, develop essential leadership skills, and connect with peers who share similar passions. Student Council member Meera Saini ’25 facilitated the monthly meetings and served as the liaison between club leaders and the Upper School administration.
By fostering an environment where students can learn from each other and lead with purpose, a legacy of leadership will continue to impact the school community for years. The vision for GCS is one where students are empowered to shape their own futures. The result of this commitment can be found in the Council of Clubs, which ensures the continuation of student-led initiatives and creates a foundation for future generations of leaders. By cultivating an inclusive, dynamic, and forward-thinking environment, we are preparing our students to thrive in the future that they will help shape. n
HOW WE CDET
CONTRIBUTE, DISCOVER, EXCEL, AND THRIVE
Isaiah McCray ’25 was awarded the 2025 Young Arts Award National Competition, recognizing his talent in jazz piano. The award recognizes work that demonstrates exceptional technique; a strong sense of artistry; and a depth of thinking/performance that exceeds the level of peers at this career stage; and includes a cash prize.
Last summer, Landon Tudor ’29 competed in the 2024 13u National PGA Junior League Championship in Frisco, Texas. His team, Team Virginia, finished fourth among 12, falling to Team Utah in the thirdplace match. The championship, broadcast live on ESPN, featured 96 junior golfers ages 10–13. While there, Landon met pro golfer Tony Finau and interviewed pro golfer Tom Kim.
CONTRIBUTE
Joyce Yun ’27 was elected as historian for the Maryland Youth Advisory Council. The Council keeps the governor and the General Assembly apprised of issues important to Maryland youth. Yun is eager to advocate and show her passion for activism and service by working on the council to address issues Maryland youth experience each day.
Alani Jordan ’29 has cultivated her passion for journalism. She is known for her oratory skills and love of theatre. Jordan has a passion for broadcast journalism and was named a Sports Illustrator Kids Kid Reporter in November 2024. On January 22, Jordan was a guest anchor on FOX45’s “Good Day Baltimore,” as a Chick-Fil-A kids correspondent.
In September 2024, Jessica (McAdams) Dolan, co-director of athletics, was inducted into the Washington College Athletics Hall of Fame. Dolan led the field hockey team to three Centennial Conference Tournaments and two ECAC Tournaments while still holding school records. She accumulated 14 career goals and 19 career assists in her time at Washington College.
Danielle Choi ’27 was one of 15 winners of FOX45’s Champions of Courage essay contest. The contest is designed to commemorate Black History Month by celebrating positive role models for youth. The essay competition provides opportunity for students to participate in a scholastic competition, to gain confidence in their abilities, and to be recognized for their achievement.
EXCEL
ATHLETICS HIGHLIGHTS
From heartbreaking losses, to thrilling overtime victories and championship performances, the fall season had it all. The season saw playoff appearances for four of our five team sports, as well as top finishes for our individual sports. Below are some of the highlights from the season.
Boys Cross Country Runs through the C Conference
After narrowly losing the 2023 MIAA C Conference championship by five points, the boys cross country team set its sights on winning it all in 2024. Lone senior Gavin Lees ’25, who placed third at last season’s championship, would have to lead a young team with 10 freshmen, the largest freshman class in recent history, in order to accomplish their goals.
Glenelg Country started the season with a strong performance, defeating three conference teams by double digits in their first meet and placing the Dragons in the top three spots. The team used the momentum from the first meet and never looked back. Powered by Lees and freshman Link Hoewing-Moxley ’28, who each finished in the top three every meet, the Dragons completed the
regular season 15-0, achieving back-to-back undefeated seasons.
At the championship meet, placing was key, with the top five runners contributing to the team’s overall score. Lees and Hoewing-Moxley finished second and third, respectively, while freshman Teddy Hyland ’28 secured a vital fourth-place finish, narrowly edging out Indian Creek’s top runner by just 0.26 seconds. Despite a sprained ankle, Max Hart ’28 ran a personal best to finish 14th, and Lucas Jackson ’26 rounded out the scoring by placing 40th.
Hyland’s 0.26-second margin proved crucial in securing a two-point victory, earning Glenelg Country School the 2024 MIAA C Conference Championship.
Max Hart
Link Hoewing-Moxley
Teddy Hyland
Lucas Jackson Gavin Lees
Zoe Taylor Continues Her Dominance
After finishing the 2023 season as the undefeated number two singles champion, Zoe Taylor ’27 looked to defend her title, this time as the Dragons number one singles player. In commanding fashion, Taylor once again finished the 2024 regular season undefeated, culminating in the overall top seed in the IAAM C Conference Tennis Tournament and earning a firstround bye.
In the semifinals, Taylor took on the fourth seed, Chloe Lyons from Friends School. After dropping the first set in a nail biter, 6-7(7), Taylor showed the poise and fire that have become her trademarks as she stormed back to take the next two sets 6-0, 6-0, to punch her ticket to the finals.
With the title on the line, Taylor next faced Ana Gillert, the second seed from St. Timothy’s. But any hopes of an upset were quickly dashed. Riding the momentum from
ALL-CONFERENCE HONORS
MB Barrie ’25
MIAA Soccer All B Conference
Bella Boats ’26
IAAM Cross Country All C Conference
Kennedy Cummins ’26
IAAM Volleyball All B Conference
Drew Harris ’26
MIAA Soccer All B Conference
Link Hoewing-Moxley ’28
MIAA Cross Country All C Conference
Teddy Hyland ’28
MIAA Cross Country All C Conference
Gavin Lees ’25
MIAA Cross Country All C Conference
her semifinal triumph, Taylor delivered another dominant performance, cruising to a 6-1, 6-1 victory to claim the 2024 IAAM C Conference number one singles championship.
“Zoe’s competitive spirit and determination in each match contributed to her success on the court,” explained Julie Lazer, the team’s head coach. “She consistently demonstrates sportsmanship towards her opponents and sets a positive example as a captain for the team to follow. This is Zoe’s second season with the team, and she remains undefeated! Zoe continues to prove that she is deserving of these achievements and that she is a strong competitor.”
Taylor’s back-to-back undefeated campaigns have firmly established her as a player to watch in the IAAM for the next two seasons.
Skylar Olson ’26
IAAM Soccer All C Conference
Cecelia Solomon ’25
IAAM Field Hockey All C Conference
Zoe Taylor ’27
IAAM Tennis All C Conference
Cydney To ’28
IAAM Tennis All C Conference
Ela Trask ’28
IAAM Soccer All C Conference
Margaret Turnure ’25
IAAM Field Hockey All C Conference
Gabrielle Washington ’25
IAAM Volleyball All B Conference
Zoe Taylor
ALUMNI EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
Forum Career Talks
Launched in the fall of 2023, the Dragon Career Talks introduces Upper School students to various professional careers and career pathways by bringing alumni to campus to share experiences and unique journeys to reach their chosen profession. The series started in October 2024 with a visit from Steven Eisner ’16, software engineer at RealmOne, who Ben Shovlin interviewed. In November 2024, students heard from Hannah Aiello ’16, a law clerk at the Office of General Council for the US House of Representatives, interviewed by Walter Mattson. Finally, in December 2024, Cole Chason ’15, software team lead engineer in the cryogenic test for Northop Grumman, chatted with Marc Schmidt.
Alumni Holiday Cheer
For the first time in four years, the alumni community started the holiday season in the historic Manor House by spreading a little cheer at the Alumni Holiday Cheer reception on Saturday, December 21, 2024. Over 40 alumni community members gathered to reminisce with current and past faculty, enjoy delicious beverages, and enjoy an incredible menu while cheering on the Baltimore Ravens. See more photos at www.glenelg.org/mediahub
HOW TO GET INVOLVED
From Forum Career Talks to assisting with events and other one-off volunteer opportunities, there’s a perfect match for every alumni passion and schedule. Check out the alumni volunteer page at www.glenelg.org/getinvolved to see how you can help our Dragons in 2025!
IN MEMORIAM
FACULTY AND STAFF
Rosemary A. Ashton
Megan Guerra
Nancy Mitchell
FRIENDS
Robert Burke P’10 ’13
Kyndall Francis P’23
Frank Gleim
Steven A. Joss P’93
Lisa Paar P’19 ’21
Jean Parr P’24
Jack Vandermer
Carolyn Vasold
12793 Folly Quarter Road
Indicia