Alumni spotlight: a life of purpose behind the scenes transformative learning: gfa summer institutes commencement 2024: soar on dragons
GREENS FARMS ACADEMY MAGAZINE
spring/summer 2024
Editor Joe Flynn
Design
Lindsay Russo
Photography
Yoon S. Byun
Madeline Canning
Samantha Casamento
John Nash
Contributors
Linsey Alvarez
Samantha Casamento
Ana Holwell
Libby Jones
John Nash
Chris Noland ’22
Greens Farms Academy does not discriminate against any person in admission, financial aid, program involvement, employment, or otherwise because of sexual orientation, race, religion, age, gender, national origin, or disability.
A message from the head of school, BOB WHELAN
Welcome to this issue of the GFA Magazine, a look back on the past year and a celebration of our vibrant school community.
As we prepare for GFA’s Centennial, I am grateful for opportunities like this publication, where we can celebrate the ties that bind us together. In these moments, we have the opportunity to reflect on our past, appreciate how far we’ve come, and dream big for the future.
One of the most admirable qualities of GFA is our community’s ability to stay true to our roots and guiding principles while embracing change to best serve our students. This balance, I believe, is a testament to the people and relationships that define our school. Our shared commitment to excellence has been a constant over the past 100 years, and as a result, alumni and current students alike have experienced a remarkably similar “GFA experience”—one that shapes curious and empathetic students, prepares them for lives of purpose, and is marked by a deep sense of connection to one another.
In this issue, you’ll find myriad examples of how relationships drive our work at GFA. You’ll read about our commencement speaker, Jennifer Wallace, and how a lifelong friendship brought her back to GFA. You’ll read an interview with former Head of School and alum Nancy Lauber ’51, whose career path took an unexpected turn back to GFA thanks to friendships she made during her time as a student. You’ll also find recaps of student activities and accomplishments, celebrations of annual traditions, and notes of gratitude for individuals who are embarking on their next chapter after being an important part of the GFA fabric for many years.
As we stand on the threshold of our Centennial, I am thrilled to celebrate not only achievements and milestones but also the enduring spirit of community that has always been the heart of GFA. Together, we look forward to a future filled with wonder, driven by the same values and connections that have brought us to this remarkable moment.
Our shared commitment to excellence has been a constant over the past 100 years, and as a result, alumni and current students alike have experienced a remarkably similar “GFA experience”—one that shapes curious and empathetic students, prepares them for lives of purpose, and is marked by a deep sense of connection to one another.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Board of Trustees
Ward Horton P ’24, ’28, Chair
Vani Bettegowda P ’22, ’25, Co-Vice Chair
Don San Jose P ’22, ’25, Co-Vice Chair
Michael Blitzer P ’24, ’27, Treasurer
Meade Fogel P ’27, ’28, ’28, Secretary
David Durkin P ’18, ’22, ’23
Roger Ferris P ’18, ’18, ’20, ’28
Gil Aikins P ’33
Renee Bea P ’30
Howard Blaustein P ’31, ’35
Rebecca Bliss
Bill Bucknall GP ’24, ’26
Sandy Ewing P ’20, ’23, ’26
Catherine Foster Ellison ’00, P ’35, 37
Roopali Hall P ’31, ’33
Sean Obi ’13
Andy Papadakos P ’26, ’30, ’37
Amber Paquette P ’28, ’28, ’33
Dmitri Ponomarev P ’30, ’31
Melanie Smith P ’22, ’24, ’29
Page Tremaine ’93, P ’23, ’26
Ex-officio: Bob Whelan P ’24
In Recognition of Outgoing leadership
At the June meeting of the Board of Trustees, five members whose terms were concluding that month were recognized for their exceptional service and support.
Sandra Frost P ’25, ’29 (2018-2024)
Committees: Advancement, Equity and Inclusion, and Marketing
Nadene McKenzie-Reid P ’25 (2021-2024)
Committee: Equity and Inclusion (Co-Chair)
Thomas Murphy P ’19, ’21, ’22, ’26 (2018-2024)
Committees: Advancement, Advisory Council (Co-Chair), and Finance
Kim Raveis ’88, P ’23, ’25, ’28 (2018-2024)
Committees: Coyle Scholar (Co-Chair), Equity and Inclusion, and Marketing
Emily Von Kohorn ’96 (2018-2024)
Committees: Advancement and Head of School Evaluation (Chair)
“GFA is well positioned for the road ahead, due in no small measure to the outstanding work of this group. All of us at GFA owe them a debt of gratitude for their generous contributions of time, talent, and resources.”
Ward Horton P ’24, ’28 Chair of the Board
GFA Welcomes Incoming leadership
Ward Horton, Chair of the Board of Trustees, announced that four new members will join the board. They each were elected to serve an initial three-year term which began on July 1.
Howard Blaustein P ’31, ’35
Prior to moving to Connecticut in 2022, Howard lived his entire life in New York. He attended Vassar College and New York Law School before a 15-year legal career in corporate and restructuring law. In 2013, Howard co-founded a technology-based restructuring administration firm named Prime Clerk, which was acquired in 2019 by Kroll, where he currently works as a Managing Director.
Howard is an avid art collector, yogi, squash player, and former marathon runner. He is active in numerous charitable causes including those that help our environment, support food-insecure families, and nurture young professionals. He lives with his wife Christina and their two children in Westport.
Catherine foster Ellison ’00, P ’35, ’37
Catherine attended GFA from kindergarten through the eighth grade and and has two older siblings are who are GFA Lifers, Charlie ’93 and Michie ’96. Her father, Chuck, served as trustee for GFA from 1987-96. After graduating from the Hopkins School in ’01, Catherine attended Middlebury College, where she graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in History of Art and Architectural Studies. She maintains close ties to Middlebury by serving as a member of the Middlebury Museum & Visual Arts Council.
Catherine has spent her career working in the art world and is currently Head of Business Development for Sotheby’s Americas, where she has responsibility for the region’s Valuations department, Fiduciary Client Group, Museum & Corporate Art Group, Collection Sales Management department, Restitution department, Client Strategy, and Sotheby’s Collectors Group. Catherine has been an active GFA alum, attending events, serving on reunion committees, and panels. She is excited to apply her experiences and lifelong love of GFA into service as a second-generation board member. Catherine is currently a class parent for the second grade and lives in Westport with her husband, Dave, and their three children.
Amber Paquette P ’28, ’28, ’33
Amber Paquette, a Brown University alum with a degree in biology and a four-year member of the Track and Field team, has built a multifaceted career that spans over a decade in healthcare, specializing in oncology, and later transitioning into education and community service. She has held leadership roles in nonprofit organizations, including serving as Executive Director of the Harold P. Freeman Patient Navigation Institute and Interim Executive Director of the City Kids Foundation. Amber’s move to California led her to teach K-2 physical education and coach high school track and field, further developing her leadership and project management skills. She serves on the boards of the Amanda Cullinan Foundation and the Mateo Family Foundation, and the advisory council for the college of Brown University. Amber is also an active volunteer in various community initiatives and has embraced her role as a GFA Fund captain and class parent at GFA. She resides in Darien, Connecticut, with her husband Tony and their family of six.
Dmitri Ponomarev P ’30, ’31
Dmitri is the CEO of Wilton Re, a leading North American in-force life and annuity reinsurer. Prior to joining Wilton Re in 2015, he worked at Goldman Sachs in the Financial Institutions Group of Investment Banking, as well as Credit Risk Management and Rating Advisory. Dmitri received his bachelor’s from Cleveland State University and his MBA from the NYU Stern School of Business. Dmitri has served on the GFA Advisory Council. He and his wife, Yanina, are active members of the GFA community and supporters of Horizons GFA. They live in Westport with their three children.
departing Faculty
Betsy Bergeron
Betsy “Ms. B” Bergeron retired in June, after 36 years of exemplary service to GFA. Betsy held multiple positions during her tenure at GFA, serving as the Director of the Harbor Blues, Upper School Choral Director, and a cherished advisor. She cultivated an appreciation for and a love of music in generations of GFA students, from the novice to the virtuoso, and provided space for students to feel a sense of belonging. As the faculty advisor to QUEST, Betsy served as a resource and voice of inclusion, and spearheaded events like the National Day of Silence. She combined her passion for music with her commitment to community service, and orchestrated 34 Harmony for the Homeless concerts, raising funds for local nonprofits. She worked tirelessly over many summers as a volunteer leader of the Off-Beat Players, an inclusive theater group that often engaged GFA students and alumni as volunteers.
Gail Gibb
Gail Gibb has been an esteemed member of the Greens Farms Academy community since 2004, serving as Assistant to the Head of School for 20 years. She served under two Heads of School, Janet Hartwell and Bob Whelan, and was the consummate professional, always approaching this important work with grace, kindness, discretion, and a friendly smile. She has warmly welcomed everyone who comes through the front doors of GFA with a caring and calm demeanor, and with genuine affection. She possessed irreplaceable institutional knowledge, having long been the ultimate organizer of important schedules and key events. She has always upheld GFA’s core values of passion, integrity, empathy, curiosity, and excellence to the fullest extent.
Carolyn Skiba
Carolyn Skiba has been an integral part of the GFA community for the past 22 years, serving as a guiding force both in the Middle School and the greater GFA community. She has provided a cough drop, a note in a locker, a band-aid, a snack, and a listening ear to generations of students, colleagues, and parents. She lived the GFA motto, “Each for All,” in every interaction. Her infectious laugh and shouts of “Woo hoo!” during Mr. Meyer’s school vacation announcements reflected her enthusiasm for the student body. Her office was the first stop for new students confused about their schedules, current students who needed to call home, faculty members with a question, and alums looking to reconnect with one of their most trusted adults on campus. Carolyn embodied GFA’s mission and modeled our promise to families “to know and love your children.”
Jack Blitzer ’24 Concord Review: Partnership in Action
Jack Blitzer ’24 had his essay, “Treaty of Versailles,” published in last year’s edition of The Concord Review, a prestigious academic journal composed of student submissions. Blitzer worked closely during his junior year with now-retired faculty member Ian Campbell to construct an essay for the journal, which accepts less than five percent of all of the submissions they receive.
The Concord Review was founded in 1987 to honor exemplary history essays written by high school students. Essays that are eligible for submission can be written on any historical topic, unrestricted by time period or geographic region. The journal describes itself as “the only quarterly journal in the world to publish the academic history papers of secondary students.”
Blitzer’s project began as an extensive research paper for Mr. Campbell’s Inquiry in European History course. His paper covered “the effect of the Treaty of Versailles on the German economy throughout the 1920’s, with a particular focus on the German economic crash of 1923.” Blitzer, who will continue his studies at Brown University, was excited and honored by his essay’s inclusion in The Concord Review. He shared that he has “always been interested in economics and history, so it was exciting to get a chance to combine these two topics.”
Grandparents and Special Friends Day
This year’s Grandparents and Special Friends Day overflowed with joy, connection, and love. We were thrilled to welcome over 300 visitors to our campus this year.
The festivities began with Lower School poem recitals and a performance by the Middle School chorus. Following the performances, grandparents and special friends were escorted to their respective divisions and grade levels, engaging in curated activities that allowed them to experience our vibrant school life firsthand. Guests in Lower School explored beloved spaces such as the Lower School library, STEAM classroom, and Lower School art room. They then
toured our newly constructed Lower School Dining Commons, witnessing the ongoing growth and development of our facilities.
A standout moment of the day was delivered by our seventh and eighth graders, who took pride in presenting “A P.I.E.C.E of GFA.” This unique showcase allowed them to highlight aspects of GFA through presentations that exemplified our core values: Passion, Integrity, Empathy, Curiosity, and Excellence. Each presentation demonstrated the students’ deep connection with these values and highlighted their influence on their educational and personal development.
Hartwell Visiting Fellow: Darryl “DMC” McDaniels
The GFA community was thrilled when music legend and “King of Rock” Darryl “DMC” McDaniels made his return to campus as the 2024 Janet Hartwell Visiting Fellow. DMC, who was GFA’s commencement speaker in 2022, spent two days on campus in February, sharing his inspirational messages and exuberant spirit with all three divisions.
DMC is a founding member of Run DMC, the first rap group to grace the cover of Rolling Stone and the first to appear on MTV. The Grammy-nominated artist and Emmy winner also co-founded a nonprofit called The Felix Organization, was invited to the White House by President Obama to address youth groups, and appeared before Congress in support of
Speakers on Campus
adoptees and foster children. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee is also an author and philanthropist, continuing to create, inspire, and motivate.
DMC’s distinguished career and life made him the perfect fit for the Hartwell Visiting Fellowship. Founded in 2018, the Fellowship aligns with the value GFA places on liveliness of the mind as well as the application of knowledge fueling science, arts, government, business, social enterprise, environmental responsibility, and more. Distinguished speakers, innovative thinkers, and dynamic teachers come to campus for extended periods of time to work with our PreK-12 students and enhance our robust curriculum.
Anthony Valentine, part-time EMT and full-time role model, came to GFA on January 17 and 18. He spoke at the annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration Assembly, instructing students to “be kind” and live lives of purpose.
Author Doug Lemov kicked off ‘spring training’ for the GFA faculty in March. His keynote focused on the creation of inclusive and educational classroom environments.
Former NBA player Chris Herren visited GFA in April to discuss substance abuse and his journey towards recovery. After his powerful presentation, students participated in reflective advisory sessions to share insights and discuss his stories.
GFA alum Chris Temple ’07 showcased his new film, “This is Not Financial Advice,” to Upper School students in April. It combines storytelling with themes of financial literacy.
Model Seder
A new GFA tradition started in April when the community gathered for a model Passover Seder in the new Lower School Commons. The event was organized and run by the Upper School Jewish Cultural Club. The vibrant potluck was a beautiful blend of tradition, community, and cultural exchange.
Symposium
GFA’s lively 2024 Symposium featured around 150 students presenting their personalized inquiries and research projects. The event kicked off with an inspiring keynote from alumnus Clay Garner ’13, whose dynamic career has included everything from being a Chinese pop idol to serving as the Chief Innovation Officer for the mayor of San José, California. His speech highlighted the core GFA value of curiosity, urging the audience to wonder about problems. Clay reminded the Upper School and members of the community to embrace discomfort as a catalyst for growth and encouraged them to step out of their comfort zones.
The symposium itself featured a wide range of dynamic presentations based on original student research and thought, with musical performances beginning and ending the day. The special event not only celebrated the academic achievements of our students but also underscored the lasting influence of a GFA education, where deep ties are forged and a commitment to lifelong learning runs deep.
May Term
May Term is a seven-day program originally introduced to replace final exams with something more joyful. It allows students from across the Upper School to connect over their shared passions, enriching both social and educational experiences on campus. The program is pass/fail and has no homework, encouraging a come-as-you-are approach to learning during the brief period. May Term provides a perfect end to the year in a place where inquisitive minds and original thought is so valued.
Students engaged in many unique learning experiences during this year’s May Term, which included tackling jazz improvisation, diving into Tolkien’s literary world, and developing a rich cultural analysis of “Barbie.”
May term courses
Architecture
Asian Movies, Culture, and Cooking
Barbie
CPR and Life-Saving
Dancing and Dishes
Dragons in the Wild
Exploring Math Through Magic
The Art of the Chinese Strategy Game Go (Weiqi) Jazz Improvisation 101
Journey into Middle-Earth
The Harlem Renaissance
Media and Madness
Mock Trial
Movies v. Reality: The Science (or lack thereof) in Hollywood
Painting and Drawing through Observation
Physically Cultured
A Puzzler’s Paradise
Robowars
The Science of Sustenance
Sensory Cyborg: Place-Based Play and AI Tools
Wabi Sabi
Lower School moving up
Middle school Moving up
COMMENCEMENT
On May 31, Greens Farms Academy graduated 91 members of the Class of 2024. The ceremony took place on the beautiful Front Lawn, where seniors joined the ranks of alums, surrounded by their families, faculty, trustees, and fellow Upper School classmates.
This year’s commencement speaker was Jennifer Wallace, a distinguished journalist and author. A Harvard graduate, Jennifer began her career in journalism at 60 Minutes, where she was part of an award-winning team. Most recently, she was the author of the New York Times bestseller Never Enough: When Achievement Pressure Becomes Toxic and What We Can Do About It. Jennifer is no stranger to the GFA family—she last visited in November of 2023, when she was named a Coyle Scholar, and she spoke to the parent community about her research on the impact of “mattering.” Head of School Bob Whelan highlighted the positive difference Jennifer made as a Coyle Scholar, and remarked that Jennifer’s return to GFA echoed many of the same themes that salutatorian Azra Ozgen ’24 and valedictorian Zoe Monschein ’24 shared in their addresses: The importance of friendship.
Jennifer shared that friendship was the reason she stood before the Class of 2024. Her dear friend, Kelly Corrigan, was originally slated to give the commencement address, but was unable to attend due to a family emergency. Nonetheless, Jennifer encouraged graduates to dream big, work hard, and seek out friends who would make their journeys not only bearable, but joyful. She shared, “Friends make life’s challenges look less daunting,” and urged the Class of 2024 to find their own friend who is a sounding board, coach and cheerleader.
Jennifer emphasized that resilience in life comes from deep, nourishing relationships that are grounded in vulnerability and gratitude. She closed with heartfelt wishes: “What a privilege it is to be trusted, to be relied on, to be able to support a dear friend. And what a privilege it is to be here with all of you as you cross the threshold into your adult lives. I wish you happiness, I wish you friendship, I wish you well.”
“Graduates, what I have learned in my five decades on this earth is that what makes life rich and meaningful are the people you share it with. It’s about our relationships. Prioritize them. Celebrate them. Center them in your life. In them, you will find the confidence to dream big, the energy to work hard, the courage to recover from mistakes, and the inspiration to be kind.”
Jennifer Wallace commencement speaker
“Research has shown that resilient, connected people actually refer to those times where they struggled, where things were hard, and the lessons gained from that. They lean back into connection—that energy between us where we feel seen, heard, and truly valued. And what makes me so proud about this group is that last September they began the year by talking to one another about how much they valued each other, how they’d supported one another along the way—doing the hard things that actually allow us to push through to real growth, to enduring learning.”
The Margaret Beach Howlett Award: Reese Garg ’28, Allegra Paquette ’28, Minna Reilly ’28, Sam Tishfield ’28
The Marion Taft Taylor Award: Gordon Fatherley ’28, Hazel Hantman ’28, Sadie Tamburri ’28
UNDERCLASSMEN AWARDS
The Jane Kentnor Dean ’52 Alumni Award: Izzy Kittredge ’25
The Lynne A. Laukhuf Citizenship Prize: Cece Tivey ’27, Anika Vaidheeswaran ’27, Ryan Schnieder ’26, Tomas De Pinho ’25
The Angela Van Acker Award: Neil Chaudhari ’24, Olivia Smith ’24
The Wagner Award: Serra Nalbantoglu ’25
SENIOR AWARDS
The Francis Burr Harden Award: Ronnie Christolin ’24
The David K. King Scholarship Award: Jacob Robinson ’24
The Lucie B. Warren Award: Clara Guettel ’24
DEPARTMENT AWARDS
Marijane Beltz Sportsmanship Award: Francesca Sullivan ’24
The Computer Science, Engineering, and Design Award: Jack Kendall ’24
The Barbara Conlan Award: Lillian Hogan ’24
The Susan Conlan Award: Jacob Robinson ’24
The Creative Writing Award: Riley Meyer ’24
The Amy Schwartz and OJ Burns English Award: Julianna Penna ’24
The GLaD Prize: Zoe Monschein ’24
The Martha Laffaye Award: Olivia Smith ’24
The Joan Loomis Award: Clara Guettel ’24
The Mandarin Award: Andrew Roth ’24
The Music Award: Peter Adams ’24
David M. Perry Sportsmanship Award: Xavier Giles ’24
Barbara Hellwig Rose Outstanding Athlete Award: Lillian Hogan ’24
The Sustainability Award: Samantha Schwartz ’24
The Edward J. Denes Award: Nate Taylor ’24
The Theatre Award: Eleni Valbuena ’24
The Roger B. True Science Award: Zoe Monschein ’24
The Roger B. True Research Award: Katerin Pineda ’25
The Upton Award: Simone Snow ’24
The Visual Arts Award: Juliette Murphy ’24
The Visual Arts Purchase Award: Deniz Nalbantoglu ’25
The Whittle Award: Jack Blitzer ’24, Beyza Kalender ’24
The World Perspectives Award: Bento Silva ’24
soar on
Barnard College (2)
Bates College
Boston University (2)
Brown University (3)
Bucknell University
University of California - Berkeley
University of California - Irvine
CentraleSupélec
University of Chicago (2)
Clemson University
Colby College
College of Charleston
University of Colorado - Boulder (2)
University of Connecticut (3)
Cornell University (3)
Dartmouth College (2)
Denison University
University of Denver
DePaul University
Emory University (2)
Fordham University
George Washington University
Georgetown University (2)
Johns Hopkins University
Lafayette College (3)
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (2)
University of Miami
Middlebury College
The New School
New York University (2)
North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University
University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill
Northeastern University
Northwestern University
University of Pennsylvania (4)
Princeton University (2)
University of Richmond (3)
Rutgers University
Santa Clara University (2)
Southern Methodist University (2)
University of St. Andrews
St. Lawrence University
Stockholm School of Economics
Swarthmore College
Tufts University
Tulane University (3)
Union College
United States Air Force Academy
Vanderbilt University
Vassar College
University of Virginia (2)
Wake Forest University (2)
Washington and Lee University
Washington University in St. Louis (2)
Wellesley College
Wesleyan University (2)
West Chester University of Pennsylvania
College of William and Mary
Williams College
University of Wisconsin
The Middle School production of Beauty and the Beast Jr. brought the classic fairy tale to life by taking us all on a grand adventure. From the dazzling costumes to the energetic choreography, the students had a magical time putting this show together both on stage and behind the scenes. The middle schoolers’ enchanting storytelling captivated full house audiences for both performances and inspired us all to find our happily ever after!
MS & US Musicals
The Upper School production of Peter and the Starcatcher was nothing short of spectacular. The cast put on four remarkable performances of this whimsical prequel to the beloved Peter Pan story. In this tale, Peter and starcatcher Molly Aster venture to keep magical “star stuff” out of the hands of pirates. As an ensemble-driven performance, students collaborated and rose to the occasion of playing multiple roles despite the challenges of a shortened production timeline. The triumph of this production is an extraordinary example of our students being made of “star stuff” themselves and flying higher than ever imagined.
spring concerts
DRAGONOIDS REBOOT
On a Friday afternoon, after a long week of classes, homework, and assessments, over 20 upper schoolers congregate to build robots, write code, and bond over slices of pizza. The room is buzzing with enthusiasm, and the atmosphere is electric. Exclamations of “It works!” fill the air. These are the Dragonoids, GFA’s robotics team.
Under the leadership of co-captains Charlotte Wagner ’24 and Neil Chaudhari ’24, the Dragonoids expanded from one to three teams. Charlotte, who was on the Middle School robotics team that made it to a national tournament, explained that having three teams work on three separate robots increases prototyping capabilities. “We will take all of the best parts of each of the three robots to make one robot for competition.” Neil explained that one of their goals is to teach teammates interested in programming how to program. He added, “I want to help the team have a foothold for next year.”
Under the guidance of team coach and computer science, engineering, and design teacher Berni Lally, the team transitioned to VEX robotics. While this presented a learning curve, Lally explained that VEX “allowed the team to streamline their approach and focus on programming in Python, which is the most up-to-date and versatile robot language.” This approach lets the team incorporate new ideas and capabilities into their robots, keeping them at the forefront of innovation.
The Dragonoids are not just building robots—they are building community, essential skills like collaboration and communication, and a strong foundation for the team's future. We can’t wait to see what they create and learn in the coming years!
The GFA winter and spring sports seasons once again proved to be successful, with more victories than defeats and more hardware being added to the school’s championship-winning trophy case.
The Dragons wrestling team swept a trio of championship meets, claiming its fourth straight Fairchester Athletic Association (FAA) league title, its fifth straight Western New England regional crown and its second straight New England Preparatory School Athletic Council (NEPSAC) overall championship. Additionally, the three-person girls wrestling team won the NEPSAC Small School championship.
Also in the winter, the boys squash team advanced to the New England Class B championship match, losing in the finals to finish as runners-up. The girls squash squad played for the U.S. National Championship in its division, falling in the finals, and the girls varsity basketball team returned to the NEPSAC semifinals, falling on the road to top-seeded St. George’s School.
In the spring season, the boys tennis team earned its second straight FAA Regular Season Championship, and two players swept the FAA Singles Championships.
Here is a more in-depth look back at our Winter and Spring Seasons.
WINTER SPORTS
Girls basketball
The Dragons won 10 of their last 12 games, finishing the season with an 18-7 record and making both the FAA and New England Tournaments. Led by second-year head coach Maria Conlon, the team fell in the semifinals of both of those tournaments.
The Dragons did finish 7-1 in FAA play, including beating arch-rival St. Luke’s in two out of their three meetings this season.
Only two seniors—Molly Keaveney ’24 and Zoe Monschein ’24—graduated from the program so a lot of youthful talent will be returning next year, a year older and a year better.
Boys basketball
After dropping the first six games of the season, the Dragons bounced back and opened the new year by winning six straight games. By the time all was said and done, head coach JJ Hoffstein’s squad posted an 11-13 mark, and qualified for both the FAA and NEPSAC Tournaments.
One of the bigger highlights of the season was an exciting 75-71 win over Redemption Christian Academy during GFA’s annual “Pack The House” event.
Three seniors graduated from the program, including Marius Kaljuvee ’24, Nile Gage ’24, and Kyle Roesser ’24.
wrestling
Under head coach Jack Conroy ’06, the Dragons have become one of the top prep wrestling programs in New England. In addition to team championships at the FAA, Western New England and NEPSAC level, the Dragons posted their second straight fifth-place finish at the National Prep Wrestling Tournament in Pennsylvania.
Boys squash
The GFA boys squash team went into this year’s NEPSAC Championships as the sixth seed. They pulled off two exciting upsets to advance to the championship match, though in the end they fell in the finals by a 4-3 score.
The week after the NEPSAC Championship, the squad advanced to the U.S. National tournament and placed fourth in their division, after defeating the number one seed in the quarterfinals.
All told, the Dragons—led by seniors Eddie Xue ’24, Jackson Kendall ’24, and Jacob Robinson ’24—finished the season 9-6.
Girls squash
The Dragons finished strong this season under firstyear coach Meredith Lorito. After winning ten matches, they headed into the NEPSAC Championships as the sixth seed and ultimately finished in that same position. They then advanced to the U.S. National tournament, where they posted a 2-1 record, with two narrow 4-3 victories before falling in the final match. They ended the tournament as the runner-up in their division.
Seniors Riley Meyer ’24 and Scarlett Kniffen ’24 led the way for GFA this season. The squad finished the season with a 13-8 record.
Twelve Dragons earned All-American honors for their performance on the mat, making it to the podium with top eight finishes at the national meet. Sixteen wrestlers earned All-NEPSAC honors, 13 brought home All-FAA honors, and 16 were named Academic All-American for the school year.
SPRING SPORTS
Baseball
On the baseball diamond, the Dragons—led by seniors Luke Blazovic ’24, Ali Hood ’24, Fin Howat ’24 and Oliver Kwan ’24—finished the season with an overall 5-10 record. They were involved in several close contests, narrowly listing two games by a single run, and two others by just two runs.
At the end of the season, two players received all-FAA recognition at the end of the year, with Kwan earning second team recognition and junior Mo Hood ’25 earning honorable mention.
Boys Golf
The emergence of a new golf standout proved to be the big story from the Birchwood Country Club this season, as soccer star Harry Harmston ’24 hit the links for the first time as a Dragon and shined brightly amid a young team.
Harmston, the team’s only senior, was the team’s second-lowest scorer in its opening match. By the time the season was over, he had fired a team-leading 75 at the FAA Championship match, earning him an all-FAA second team recognition.
Girls Golf
After going undefeated at the FAA Regular Season championship last year, the girls golf team returned with its three key players: Francesca Sullivan ’24, Charlotte Wagner ’24, and Lila Reiling ’28. While the wins were fewer this season, they kept the program highly competitive, with four of their five losses coming down to only a single match.
All three golfers—Reiling, Wagner, and Sullivan—earned All-FAA honors for their performances.
Girls Lacrosse
With just one senior on the roster (Charlotte Walter ’24, who was injured late in the season), the young two-time defending FAA champion Dragons battled tough all season long.
GFA finished the season with a 5-6 overall record—but four of those losses came by a combined 12 goals. They fell to reigning champs, the undefeated Greenwich Academy team, in post-season play. With a year of varsity experience under their belt, expect the Dragons to be a force to be reckoned with next year.
Boys Lacrosse
Following on the tails of a strong string of seasons winning or finishing runner-up in the FAA tournament and regular season, a very young boys lacrosse squad battled tough this past spring, and finished with a 7-6 overall record.
The squad, led by seniors Liam Kuryla ’24 and Liam Glynn ’24, won four of their last six games, and made it all the way to the FAA semifinals.
Sailing
The sailing team hits the high seas for another successful spring season of competition. The team, led by seniors Neil Chaudhari ’24, Savvy Dreas ’24, Charles Ferragu ’24 and Ava Stevens ’24, placed third in the CT Fleet Racing State Championship and third in the 2024 NESSA Terk Trophy regatta to highlight the season.
Emmet Ennico ’25, Caroline Collins ’26 and Glen Foster ’26 earned All-FCSL honors for their performance this season.
Softball
One year after going undefeated in league play and winning the tournament championship, a very young GFA softball team with just one senior, center fielder Zoe Monschein ’24, finished in a three-way tie for third in the league this season.
Unfortunately for the Dragons, they missed out on a playoff spot due to a blind draw. Even still, Monschein and junior Izzy Kittredge were invited to play in the NEPSAC All-Star Game, and four players were honored with post-season awards.
Boys Tennis
The GFA boys tennis team had an outstanding season, with an 11-2 record. In the postseason, Coleman Merce ’24 and Jack Blitzer ’24 won FAA singles championships in the No. 1/2 finals and No. 3/4 finals, respectively, and the Dragons were league tournament runners-up.
In the NEPSAC tournament, the Dragons posted wins over Westminster (4-0) and Noble and Greenough (4-1) before falling to Boston Latin School (4-3) in the championship.
Girls Tennis
After some serious graduation losses over the past two seasons, it was a rebuilding year for the GFA girls tennis team. After dropping their first four matches of the season, the Dragons found their groove, finishing the season with a 7-7 mark, falling in the NEPSAC quarterfinals.
Seniors Riley Meyer ’24, Devin McCormack ’24 and Clara Guettel ’24 led the way, lifting the Dragons to a brighter future with their leadership.
Track and Field
A small yet spirited track and field team helped rewrite the GFA school record book this year. Lolade Oshin ’26 emerged as a future star, earning All-NEPSAC honors and All-FAA in the high jump, while Jordan Moss ’25 was All-NEPSAC in the 800-meter run.
Moss set a new school record in the 800, Piper Rothman ’26 established a new record in the javelin, and Mabel Cullen ’27 broke the record in the shot put. Additionally, the girls 4x400 relay team of Moss, Oshin, Rosow, and Olivia Wellen ’27 set a school record.
Postseason Honors
BASEBALL
ALL-FAA SECOND TEAM: Oliver Kwan ’24
ALL-FAA HONORABLE MENTION: Mo Hood ’25
BOYS GOLF
ALL-FAA SECOND TEAM: Harry Harmston ’24
ALL-FAA HONORABLE MENTION: George Weeldreyer ’28
GIRLS GOLF
ALL-FAA FIRST TEAM: Charlotte Wagner ’24
ALL-FAA SECOND TEAM: Lila Reiling ’28
ALL-FAA HONORABLE MENTION: Francesca Sullivan ’24
BOYS LACROSSE
ALL-FAA FIRST TEAM: Josh Kitt ’25, Alex Barbagallo ’26
ALL-FAA SECOND TEAM: Liam Kuryla ’24
ALL-FAA HONORABLE MENTION: Ian Hoffman ’25
ALL-NEPSAC: Liam Kuryla ’24
GIRLS LACROSSE
ALL-FAA FIRST TEAM: Janelle Mascis ’25, Lydia San Jose ’25
ALL-FAA SECOND TEAM: Grace Almeida ’25, Livia Orenstein ’25
ALL-FAA FIRST TEAM: Gabe Garibaldi ’24, Xavier Giles ’24, Joey Iammuno ’24, JT Schneider ’24, Nate Taylor ’24, Kingston Daniells Silva ’25, Brady Kaupp ’25, Ben Zuckerman ’25, Kimoni Giles ’26, Cael Wilderman ’26, Kayla Batres ’27, Brighton Karvoski ’27, Jeremy McGrath ’27
NATIONAL PREP ALL-AMERICANS: Ronnie Christolin ’24, Gabe Garibaldi ’24, Xavier Giles ’24, Joey Iamunno ’24, John Schneider ’24, Nate Taylor ’24, April Torres ’24, Kingston Daniels Silva ’25, Dominic Iaquinto ’25, Jackson Heslin ’26, Harry Kittredge ’26, Cael Wilderman ’26, Kayla Batres ’27, Brighton Karvoski ’27
ALL-NEPSAC: Ronnie Christolin ’24, Xavier Giles ’24, Joey Iammuno ’24, JT Schneider ’24, Nate Taylor ’24, April Torres ’24, Dominic Iaquinto ’25, Brady Kaupp ’25, Ben Zuckerman ’25, Jackson Heslin ’26, Kayla Batres ’27, Brighton Karvoski ’27
ALL-NEPSAC HONORABLE MENTION: Gabe Garibaldi ’24, Izzy Kittredge ’25, Kingston Daniells Silva ’25, Ryan Schneider ’26, Jeremy McGrath ’27
NHSCA ACADEMIC ALL-AMERICAN FIRST TEAM: Joey Iammuno ’24
NHSCA ACADEMIC ALL-AMERICAN SECOND TEAM: Xavier Giles ’24, JT Schneider ’24, Nate Taylor ’24, Kayla Batres ’27
NHSCA ACADEMIC ALL-AMERICAN HONORABLE MENTION: Ronnie Christolin ’24, Gabe Garibaldi ’24, Kingston Daniells Silva ’25, Dominic Iaquinto ’25, Brady Kaupp ’25, Izzy Kittredge ’25, Ben Zuckerman ’25, Harry Kittredge ’26, Cael Wilderman ’26, Brighton Karvoski ’27, Jeremy McGrath ’27
A Head of School, Ahead of her Time
Nancy Lauber is a unique individual who has experienced every iteration of what is now Greens Farms Academy. Lauber attended The Bolton School from third grade through her graduation in 1951, before venturing off to Middlebury College. Post-graduation, she joined The Bolton School faculty and eventually was appointed Headmistress in 1964. Lauber played a pivotal role in overseeing the transition of the Kathleen Laycock Country Day School from a single-sex institution to a co-educational school, under the new name, Greens Farms Academy. At 90 years old, Ms. Lauber's recollections of her time at the school are a testament to her leadership and her enduring connection to its history and legacy.
In a recent interview, Ms. Lauber reflected on her experiences over the years as a student, alumna, faculty member, and Head of School.
I don’t know if you ever saw a picture of The Bolton School on the corner of Wilton Road and Kings Highway. The school actually started in a smaller house in Westport, but pretty soon it was necessary to move. Mrs. Bolton had founded the school for her two daughters, Bunny and Betty. Mrs. Bolton had a gift and taught everyone to read. I don't know what she was like in private, but in front of the students, she was a motherly type. She and her sister, Miss Laycock, were very different. You would never say that about Miss Laycock, but she was a remarkable woman as well. I don't think Mrs. Bolton ever wanted to run the Upper School, so Miss Laycock came from England. When I went to college at Middlebury, freshmen had to take some prescribed English courses and a year of a foreign language unless they could pass exams in those two subjects. Math was my subject, but I took the two tests and passed them both with flying colors thanks to The Bolton School.
When I graduated from Middlebury in 1955, it was a time when engineering companies, like GE, were looking for math majors to train as engineers. I was interviewed by GE at Middlebury, and that went pretty well, but right after that, Miss Laycock called and said, “I understand you want to come and teach for us next year.” She told me I wanted to come and teach and when she made up her mind, it was made up. My starting salary was $2,000, and I was to teach five math classes and coach a sport every season.
With the exception of Mr. Posey's year as Head of School, it basically went straight from Mrs. Bolton and Miss Laycock to me. Mr. Posey had come from The Gunnery (now the Frederick Gunn School) and was in charge of the chapels there. I remember it was the middle of the semester, in the middle of class, and the middle of a test. Somebody came around and said that the students had to report to the library. It turned out that Kennedy had been shot and Mr. Posey was going to make a speech, which he did very well. But by the end of the year he decided to leave. Three of the school’s trustees, Lucie Bedford Cunningham Warren, Jack Upton, and Bill Reeves, asked if I would take the job if it was offered to me. Never being one to be
hindered by fact, I said, “Oh yes.” I was 30 at the time, and Lucie said to me afterward, “I wish you were 30-something instead of just plain 30.” I said, “Well, I'll try to act in a mature manner.”
Lucie was absolutely the foundation of the school when it was incorporated. Lucie went to Miss Laycock and Mrs. Bolton and said, “you cannot go on and be successful as a proprietary organization. You have to incorporate and have the ability to raise money and move to a new facility.” Miss Laycock jumped at the opportunity, but Mrs. Bolton was not interested so the school split. The original Kathleen Laycock Country Day School started in the seventh grade and moved to 35 Beachside Avenue. A few years later, the Kathleen Laycock School bought the Bolton School.
For eight years, Nancy Lauber headed the Kathleen Laycock Country Day School. In 1970, she spearheaded the transition from the Kathleen Laycock Country Day School to the newly-established co-educational institution, Greens Farms Academy.
I always believed strongly in co-education. I think that boys and girls bring different things to the classroom. We live in a co-ed world, and it's a more normal choice. Also, there was no independent school option for boys in the top three grades at that time locally. The nearest one would have been King in Stamford because at that time, Fairfield Country Day, Unquowa, and New Canaan Country School all stopped after the ninth grade. So, there was a need, and there was very little objection.
One of the best things I did around that time was hire Ed Denes. He did a lot to further co-education. The boys adored him, and he was absolutely dedicated to the school. The faculty at GFA was terrific. They were very loyal to the school, to me, and to each other. There was no unpleasantness or bickering or anything. They were good teachers and wonderful people.
I never really wanted to leave. It all started because I was sitting next to the Head of the Shipley School at a meeting of the Headmistresses of the East, and we were talking about co-education because Shipley was going to become co-educational, too. She was asking me about how that was working out and if I would ever consider a change. I said, “No, I'm not interested. I love the job I have.” She said, “Well, I'm going to submit your name anyway.” So they called me. After several more phone calls and a meeting with a few of their trustees, I went for an interview. The Shipley Trustees made me an outstanding offer—a salary increase and a house on campus. That got my attention, but I still didn't want to leave Greens Farms. I loved my job. I talked to several GFA Trustees and gathered that the Board would meet the salary offered, but at that time, the school did not have a house on campus. My heart said stay at Greens Farms and my head said you've got to accept that offer. My head won, and with great sadness, I submitted my resignation.
“The
faculty at GFA was terrific. They were very loyal to the school, to me, and to each other. There was no unpleasantness or bickering or anything. They were good teachers and wonderful people.”
I left the school in good hands. I knew Jim Coyle, and he called me up one day, and he said he heard a rumor that I was leaving and asked if I would mind if he applied for the job. I said I'd be happy to tell the Board about him and that I thought he'd be a great choice. And he did a great job. He was the right Head for that time. I look at it as I built the bridge that led to co-education, but it was Jim Coyle who caused the boys to come. He took my bridge and populated the school with boys and girls coming over it.
Even 50 years removed from her time at GFA, the school still holds a very special place in Ms. Lauber’s heart. While she joined the Quisque Pro Omnibus Society, a group of individuals who include GFA in their estate planning, many years ago, she recently detailed her plans to leave significant funds to the school to be split between the newly created Nancy E. Lauber ’51 Head of School Fund and The William Reeves Fund.
The Nancy E. Lauber ’51 Head of School Fund is to provide the current Head of School with discretionary resources that enhance and bolster the mission of the school. The William Reeves Fund will honor the late trustee of the Kathleen Laycock Country Day School by awarding a need-based scholarship to an Upper School student who has demonstrated unquestionable integrity, kindness, humility, developing leadership skills, and a passion to serve both the school and the broader community.
Ann Reeves ’60, P ’84, ’92, one of William Reeves’ daughters, noted the influence Ms. Lauber had on her: “Nancy Lauber
became our teacher at The Bolton School starting in seventh grade. Our class adored her. In the four years in which I knew her, she was our homeroom teacher, math teacher, field hockey, basketball, and softball coach, mentor, and friend. She was brilliant in math, able to teach algebra to anyone. She took us on ski trips, and to a Yankees baseball game. She somehow managed to be informal and fun-loving, yet remain respected. She could be tough when warranted, but always maintained a supportive stance, especially when our Headmistress, Miss Laycock, also a fine educator, was quite strict. Nancy laughed easily and had a witty sense of humor, an asset I'm sure that she carried into her successful school administrative roles. I am fortunate to have reconnected with her in recent times and witnessed that her clever wit has not diminished.”
While Nancy remains modest about her influence, her heartfelt reflections on her time at GFA, and her desire to support its future, underscore the depth of her enduring connection to the school.
I never tried to count up, but I think I spent 26 years there as a student or faculty member and Head, and those were some of the happiest years of my life. I loved being Head of Greens Farms Academy. I loved teaching there. I was very happy as a student, and I just had a great experience.
Editor’s Note: “With great sadness, we share that Nancy Lauber passed away on October 5, 2024. She was 90 years old. This interview, conducted in November of 2023, serves as a lasting tribute to Headmistress Lauber and her enduring legacy.
Transformative Learning:
GFA's Summer Institutes
Empower Faculty
At GFA, we are committed to fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional development for our faculty. This summer, we demonstrated this commitment through two elective programs: the Civil Discourse Summer Institute and the Artificial Intelligence Institute. These initiatives underscore our intention to empower faculty not just with practical tools, but with the opportunity to delve deeply into their passions and effectively guide students in an ever-evolving landscape.
Navigating the Future with AI
In June, a group of GFA faculty attended the AI Summer
Institute to explore the intersection of education and technology under the theme of “critical optimism.” The Institute began with HopCon2024, where educators discussed AI literacy, supportive AI tools, and maintaining the integrity of the learning process. Keynote speaker Jennifer Frederick from Yale emphasized the importance of equipping students with the tools to evaluate AI's emerging boundaries and possibilities.
Back on campus, faculty members delved into AI theories and practical applications, reflecting on GFA's current technological approaches and future aspirations. Attendees presented projects that implemented themes from the Institute, such as teaching AI literacy and using AI to support student
skills. Erin O’Grady, History & Global Studies Department Chair, highlighted the collaborative spirit of the Institute with her co-lead Nina Yuen, GFA’s Visual Arts Chair.
“In many ways, getting to work alongside Nina’s brilliance in building this Institute is a model of what we hope for our students,” said O’Grady. “We both have a tireless curiosity to learn, a voracious appetite for questions about technology and how they intersect with our unique disciplines, and our own strengths for how we engage with faculty professional learning.”
GFA has consistently integrated technology into education, and the AI Institute is a testament to this ongoing commitment. The AI Institute empowered educators to shift from a mindset of fear to one of curiosity and wonder towards technology. Participants are eager to apply their new AI knowledge in classrooms this fall, to enhance student learning.
Building Bridges Through Civil Discourse
Later, a cohort of faculty participated in the Civil Discourse Summer Institute, an initiative led by Chris Meatto, Isabelle Dumoulin, and Arianna Fustini, that builds on work undertaken throughout the 2023-24 school year by members of GFA’s Civil Discourse Committee. The Institute aimed to integrate principles of civil discourse into GFA's daily practices, promoting respectful dialogue and understanding within our school community. Select faculty members first attended the National Association of Independent Schools
(NAIS) Civil Discourse Lab, where they developed action plans for navigating the U.S. election season and beyond.
Upon returning to campus, attendees collaborated to create resources and strategies for encouraging thoughtful discussion, deep listening, and respectful disagreement in classrooms. These resources, including lesson plans and case studies, aim to build our community through classroom culture and allow students to express themselves openly.
"It feels so good to know that GFA is making civil discourse a part of its identity,” said Dumoulin. “It is truly a part of who we are as a school, and that is not as common as you’d think.”
Our Commitment to Holistic Education
Both the Civil Discourse Summer Institute and the AI Summer Institute reflect GFA's dedication to holistic education, ensuring faculty are equipped to address complex topics and guide students effectively.
"These programs made a space for finding and creating so many different resources,” shared Isabella Ferrante, who attended both summer institutes. “Seeing the overlap between the skills needed to engage with AI and civil discourse responsibly and the foundational principles of how we teach already is encouraging and invaluable.”
This year’s Reunion was a wonderful success and a testament to the enduring bonds that connect all GFA alumni. Alumni from various graduating classes came together on the Front Lawn on Saturday, May 18 to reconnect and reflect upon their shared experiences and affection for the school and each other.
Among the highlights of the event was celebrating Dan Litchfield ’99 and David Goldenheim ’99, the recipients of this year’s Distinguished Alumni Award. They were warmly introduced by former faculty member, Charlie Dietrich, who also reflected fondly on his time at GFA. Additionally, Head of School Bob Whelan led heartfelt tributes to retiring faculty members Betsy
Bergeron and Gail Gilb, who were surrounded by their families and appreciative alumni. The Class of 1974 marked their 50th reunion with events both on and off campus, culminating in a memorable dinner held in the Oak Room, which was provided by the school in recognition of their support of the GFA Fund.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated alumni volunteers and the enthusiastic attendees who helped to create a memorable day on campus. Looking ahead, we are excited to start working on plans for next year’s Centennial Reunion celebration. Stay tuned for more details!
Young Alumni Visiting Day 2024
On Thursday, January 4, young alumni from the Classes of 2020-2023 were invited to GFA for a special visiting day. The group explored campus, navigating the familiar corridors and classrooms while catching up with cherished faculty members and exchanging stories with fellow alumni and current students. The significance of their GFA journey was clear as the alums revisited their old advisories, sharing the enduring impact their time at GFA had on them as well as exciting new life developments.
Ana Holwell, Director of Alumni Relations, reflected on the day: “We were thrilled to welcome back our college-aged alumni this week. It was great to have so many familiar faces on campus and the excitement of reconnecting, with each other and the faculty, was wonderful to see.”
There was not a corner of campus you could turn to without feeling the joy. GFA’s mission of ‘engaging students as partners’ came to life as the young alumni sought to reconnect with their former teachers and peers. Once a Dragon, always a Dragon.
Once a DRAGON , always a DRAGON
A Life of Purpose Behind the Scenes
Krysta Cihi ’06 is back home in D.C. after the National Symphony Orchestra’s triumphant return from their first international tour in seven years. As Senior Manager of Production and Orchestra Operations for the National Symphony Orchestra (an artistic affiliate of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts), Krysta's role begins long before any musician takes the stage. With the group performing 44 weeks a year, meticulous planning is essential. The groundwork for these tours begins years in advance, and requires production to review potential schedules, venues and opportunities in different countries while making sure that the tour remains financially sound. Krysta is the primary liaison with a specialized travel agency and negotiates every aspect of the journey, from hotel accommodations to transportation logistics. She must also take into account details like contractual union rules which specify how many hours a musician can travel during a day, and how many consecutive days they can work.
Krysta is responsible for organizing not only all of the people but their equipment as well—16,000 pounds of cargo and 70 cases!—which is no small undertaking. Everything that goes on tour must be painstakingly itemized. She works with international customs, filling out many required forms and even the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. While traveling, endangered species parts must be declared as some of the older instruments have ornate pieces that include elephant ivory, oyster and tortoise shells, and whalebone. Some items
smoothly as possible,” which is a testament to the meticulous preparation that preceded the tour. When The Washington Post reached out to do a feature, Krysta and her fellow production colleague were initially nervous, but also excited to showcase the inner workings of their roles at the symphony. She explained, “The press mostly focuses on the performances, music, and cultural diplomacy, but it was fun to shine a light on what happens behind the scenes. You have to really care about what you are doing because you have to make sacrifices to make it all happen.”
For Krysta, working at the Kennedy Center, one of the nation's most renowned performing arts centers, has its benefits. As a federally-operated building and memorial that also houses non-profit organizations, it provides an array of opportunities for captivating collaborations. Krysta has worked on a few interesting collaborations with NASA and also witnessed a First Lady dropping in to pay her compliments to a favorite musician.
Krysta recalls visiting the Kennedy Center on her eighthgrade trip with GFA. They saw Shear Madness, an interactive murder-mystery comedy, which is the longest-running play in American theater history. She says, “I vividly remember the trip and seeing the show. I have a friend who is in the show now so I went back to see it recently, which was a blast from the past for the 14-year-old me.”
“It’s all in the details and truly a ridiculous amount of minutiae, but it’s worth it when you see the final product.”
are not even allowed to cross international lines or only in certain instances with specialized permits. Krysta notes, “It’s all in the details and truly a ridiculous amount of minutiae, but it’s worth it when you see the final product.”
The two-week, nine-city tour was Krysta’s fourth tour with the National Symphony Orchestra over her last 12 years with the company. According to her, “[while] there were new musicians and staff to acclimate, everything went as
Music has been a lifelong passion for Krysta. She played the clarinet throughout her time at GFA and beyond, and received a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Davidson College in 2010. As a “lifer” at GFA, having attended from kindergarten through grade 12, Krysta emphasizes, “The sense of community at GFA is what has stuck with me most.” Fondly reminiscing about her time at the school, she reflected on her memories of Ms. Bergeron, GFA’s esteemed choral director: “I sang in concert choir and chamber choir in high school.
Ms. Bergeron is one of the most supportive teachers I've ever known. Her passion for music and learning is contagious. She epitomizes the spirit of GFA.” GFA’s former Director of Theater Programs, Steven Stout, was another standout: “I have extremely fond memories of participating in theater at GFA. I got involved towards the end of high school. I did not have starring roles, but the feeling of community in the cast was wonderful, and I made a lot of new friends that way.”
GFA was truly a family affair for Krysta; her brother, Justin, graduated a few years ahead of her in 2003. Her mother, Kathy, was a dedicated volunteer for the Learning to Look arts appreciation program and even signed on to help choreograph a Middle School performance of Peter Pan in the late ’90s. Krysta’s father, Dale, got involved when he learned that Peter Pan wouldn’t actually fly, orchestrating numerous special effects that helped bring the production to life.
Krysta truly embodies GFA’s mission of living a life of purpose in a globally minded community. Her role as Senior Manager of Production and Orchestra Operations has enabled millions of people to experience the joy of music and to witness the exceptional talent of some of America's top musicians. Regarding her role, she remarked, “It’s unique to have 100 professional musicians as colleagues. There is never a dull moment; we are constantly working on upcoming projects. Every day is full of activity, making it a true labor of love.”
Thank you for being All-in for
Unlimited Impact
Record-breaking $1,140,731 raised on Giving Day GFA’s fourth annual Giving Day brought together over 1,000 passionate supporters from around the country to celebrate our community and invest in its success.
Love Letters from a Patriot
Elinor Upton Biggs ’64 attended The Bolton School for many years before transitioning to boarding school in 9th grade. Her father, John D. Upton, played a pivotal role as one of the founding trustees of what would become The Kathleen Laycock Country Day School, and later, Greens Farms Academy. On her mother’s side, she is the great-great-great granddaughter of famed circus man, P.T. Barnum. Elinor’s first book, The Pig with No Name, is a heartwarming and informative children’s story about a pig whose parents forgot to give him a name. With her second publication, Love Letters from a Patriot, Elinor takes a deep dive into World War II and explores the more than 200 letters her father, Jack, sent home while stationed overseas from July 4, 1942, to September 13, 1944.
“Publishing Love Letters from a Patriot has been an absolutely fascinating process,” said Elinor, in an interview with Ana Holwell, GFA’s Director of Alumni Relations. “It took two years and two months to finish it, which is almost the exact same amount of time my father was overseas. It’s funny how life has these strange little connections.”
“My father decided to enlist in the Army in January 1942, one month after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. He was able to enter at the officer level having enlisted in ROTC at Yale. Many people wrote letters home at that time, but a lot of them were more along the lines of, ‘Hi, I’m okay.’ I don’t think everyone was as conscientious as he was. He kept a log of his letters and wrote often, but there was so much he couldn’t say. The whole time he was fighting in North Africa, Sicily, and other parts of Italy, he couldn’t tell my mother
where he was, which was another level of ambiguity that was unsettling for him and my mother.
Through the thickest of times, he still wrote home. Sicily is a very short chapter in Love Letters from a Patriot, but Dad said that it was the hardest of all for him. History may maintain that mainland Italy was probably the toughest, but because of the brutal battles he and his men encountered, it was Sicily. It was also significant because General George Patton assumed military leadership for the invasion of Sicily, and Dad greatly respected Patton for his military abilities and as a leader who got things done, though he did not respect his personal behavior. So while his time in Sicily was short and limited in letters, it was very significant in several ways, and he wrote as much as he could whenever he could.
He never spoke about the war. There was a code of silence, particularly for the soldiers of the “Greatest Generation.” When he returned home, my parents had an apartment in New York situated along the flight path of La Guardia Airport. The first night he came home, an airplane flew over their apartment building and he reflexively dove under the bed, like he was diving into a foxhole. They didn’t talk about it much, but it was extremely scary for my mother. I can’t even imagine what the adjustment was like. I think the letters they shared throughout the war helped them to keep a perspective of who they were and to be the same people as best they could be in the circumstances.”
After the war, my father became involved with The Bolton School because my older sister, Mary, went there, and then I followed. He helped with the acquisition of the Vanderbilt mansion, and a few of them put the whole deal together. Education was always important to Dad. His father left the family when he was around 18. My grandmother was left with my dad, his brother had just died, and they were in a difficult financial situation. Dad was very fortunate to get a scholarship to The Hotchkiss School and then Yale which, along with his part-time work, allowed him to gain an excellent education. The experience of the scholarships and the value of his education were very important to him and led to him providing opportunities to help others achieve their educational goals.
At The Kathleen Laycock Country Day School, Dad established the Upton English Award for the perception, appreciation, and scholarly interest in the study of English. He also set up the Upton Faculty Enrichment Fund to support and encourage professional development. That was something he felt very strongly about. He brought the idea to the school and provided the seed funding. Additionally, there was a guest house on our property, which he offered, rent-free, to teachers in need of housing during the academic year. His philanthropic contributions epitomized his commitment to education and academic excellence, which was something that continued throughout his life.
class notes
1951
Ann Merrifield Hoopes
Going strong after my 90th birthday! Just seem to have all these dates to play the piano!
1966
Donna Garneau Chapin and Scott Chapin continue traveling the world, having just returned from a month in Japan. They have crossed every ocean and visited all but one continent (Antarctica) in 14 years! They look forward to continuing their grand adventure!
1970
Janet Persen
I am currently involved in two post-retirement activities after becoming a full-time resident of Arrowsic, Maine. I am a member of the Age Friendly Communities of the Lower Kennebec group (AFCLK), which provides education, activities, and resources for seniors and inter-generational opportunities for people of different ages to come together. Secondly, I am a member of the Education Committee of Arrowsic which raises funds for college scholarships. I am the proud grandmother of three grandchildren, who live with my daughter Kerry and her husband Mark in San Mateo Park, CA. My second daughter, Mackenzie lives in San Francisco.
1971
Kendall Crolius
I have officially retired, a year after my husband, Stephen Stout, retired from leading the theater program at GFA for 19 years. Stephen and I have moved to Chautauqua, NY, where we vacationed for 20 years. Chautauqua is a 150-year-old institution that runs a nine-week summer program of lectures, with a resident symphony orchestra, ballet company, opera company, and theater company—so we are in heaven. We are restoring an 1891 Victorian home and loving being part of this community. Chautauqua is definitely off the beaten path, but I have been delighted to welcome classmates including Susan Drake, Cookie Hale, and Nina Cuccio Peck for visits here. My hope is that Susan Ball will join us too! We would love to welcome any and all GFA alumni who come through western New York state. We are only 90 minutes from Niagara Falls, so if that’s on your bucket list, come see us!
1972
Susan Hood Kueffner celebrated the publication of her new book, Harboring Hope, at the Pequot Library in September. Members of the GFA community including Jane Dean ’52, Martha Gates Lord ’74, Nina Riccio ’74, Michele Orris-Modugno ’76, Lynne Laukhuf P ’95, and Dave Perry P ’06 came out to show their support.
1974
Lydia Chiappetti
I’ve been living in Simsbury, CT for the last 23 years and recently retired from the University of Hartford. Our two children are married and living in Brooklyn, NY, and Oakland, CA respectively. Our first grandchild was recently born in California, so we’ve made two trips already to see her. My husband and I are doing much traveling and just returned from Chile in early January. We’re now planning on going to Japan with my sister, Laura Halper Murphy ’73
Allen Hardon
I enjoyed seeing classmates while celebrating our 50th reunion on May 17 and 18, and working with Lydia Halper Chiappetti and Martha Gates Lord on plans for the occasion.
Elizabeth Kleissler
Last fall, I went up to St. Lawrence University, my alma mater, to attend the Women’s Ice Hockey Reunion honoring the founders. We formed a club team almost 50 years ago, and in 1997, it became a dynamic Division I team. It was a gorgeous weekend and a privilege to watch these amazing athletes play absolutely thrilling, winning games. Go, Saints! In memory of fellow founder Lisa Robbins Cissel SLU ’79 and GFA ’75
Elisabeth McCawley
I am happily retired from teaching kindergarten. When I am not acting, singing, or fundraising with our local theater company, I spend time adventuring with my two wonderful daughters. Other retirement pastimes include traveling, gardening, hiking, reading, and writing. I have a dream of writing a children’s book.
1976
Robert Lichtman
This is the year I have retired from making glass for over 40 years. Loved it all. The next chapter is to focus on my oil painting. Living in Rockland, Maine I have no shortage of inspiring scenery.
1979
David Capodilupo
Looking forward to hosting a GFA reunion at MIT soon. I’ll be opening a new research center in Thailand for the ASEAN region focusing on Climate Change, Water Sustainability,
and Data Analytics. Should any of you be traveling in the near future to this region, do let me know.
1982
In December, Nadine Pinede’s debut novel, When the Mapou Sings, will be published. The story blends first love and political intrigue with a quest for justice and self-determination in 1930s Haiti.
1983
Suzanne Calarco
In March 2024, I joined Eleish Van Breems as their office manager. Fellow classmates Edie Van Breems and Rhonda Eleish have been growing an incredible business focused on Scandinavian living, furniture, and accessories ever since we graduated from GFA. They are set to open their fourth store on Main Street in Westport this fall. Every day I’m with Lisa Riccio O’Brien, who manages e-commerce fulfillment. It’s quite the thrill having all of us classmates together.
1984
Pamela Carter
Hello, everybody! I hope all is well, long time no see! I’m still in New Jersey, although the shoreline of the Long Island Sound has been calling my name! I’ve been craving some sailing more and more lately, anybody who knows of a good boating licensing school, let me know...time to get mine renewed! Alaska and Japan have been calling my name a little too much recently. Trying to keep up with my language training and other certifications, so stuck in Newark...for now.
1985
Katie Sloan AKA Katherine Snedaker is a LCSW with her own private therapy practice focused on teens and adults with ADHD or Concussions/Brain Injury. She is still the founder and Executive Director of PINK Concussions, a non-profit focused on female brain injury from sport, domestic violence/assault, accidents or military service. She still lives in Norwalk, but is considering a bi-coastal option to be part-time in Los Angeles to be closer to her adult children.
1986
Michael Dix
Yes, you can do well and do good simultaneously. I’m proud that the innovation consultancy I founded and led, Inten -
Ann Merrifield Hoopes ’51 celebrating her 90th birthday
Donna Garneau Chapin ’66 and her husband Scott Chapin in Japan
Nina Riccio ’74, Martha Gates Lord ’74, Michele Orris-Modugno ’76, and Susan Hood Kueffner ’72 at Susan’s book launch at the Pequot Library
Clay Gates ’73 and Allen Hardon ’74
Bob Lichtman ’76 in his garden in Rockland, ME
David Capodilupo ’79 wearing his GFA windbreaker at Machu Picchu
Sketch of Michael Dix ’86
Robin Grasso Dobbs ’92 and Karima Hassan Hopkin ’92 kids; Brooklyn Dobbs, Clea Hopkins, and Cooper Dobbs
Max Rosenberg ‘97 with his four dogs and wife, Osi
Emily Epstein ’99, her husband Jonathan, and their daughter Samantha Lindsay
’95,
’99,
Hoffman ’99, and Sarah Dixon Lehmann ’99 at Mardi
in
’95,
tional Futures, became a certified B Corp recently. This recognizes a 14-year track record of turning good intentions into positive impact and our relentless commitment to ensuring society and business prosper together. It’s not hard for me to look back and appreciate how my experiences at GFA shaped how I think and instilled the confidence I needed to walk this different path.
1988
Yvette Yoon
I can hardly believe that Kaitlyn, our oldest, graduated this year from Northeastern, and Tyler, our youngest, finished his second year at Marist. Time flies. I can’t believe it’s been over 35 years since we graduated from the Farm. It was great to see fellow GFA alumni last spring, and I am looking forward to what GFA has in store for the Centennial celebration in 2025! We will all miss Big D’s presence but I’m sure he will be with us in spirit for such a momentous occasion. Look forward to seeing many of you, hopefully, later this year, or at the very least, in 2025!
1990
Catherine Memory
We are doing well 12 miles west of Boston. Last August, I joined the Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts’ Speakers Bureau, and last November, I testified in Boston at the State House in support of the Abortion Access Act. I also joined the Needham High School Friends of Music Executive Board this fall (our high school’s performing arts booster organization). The girls are 14 and 11. Katie is an exuberant, passionate theater kid and a talented singer. Charlotte is a budding scientist who plays club-level soccer and enjoys designing sets and costumes, behind the scenes, on theater tech crews.
1991
Jennifer Ancker Whelen
Greetings, Class of 1991! It’s been an amazing year with my husband John and two boys (Henry, age 12, and Teddy, age 9). We hit the Galapagos a year ago with my brother Walt Ancker ’94, his wife and three kiddos, and enjoyed a super snorkeling trip to Grenada over spring break. Henry and Teddy both played basketball and spring soccer in New Canaan - and Henry is also playing travel soccer for Chelsea Piers and lacrosse in town as well (alter ego parent life as Uber drivers is the current state of reality!). I was so happy to see Jackie Wendt over the holidays as well as take a lovely hike through the Stamford Nature Center with Sheila Pitch-
enik (and her boys are GFA Dragons too!). It would be great to hear from all of you as we start to plan for our 30th reunion in 2025! Let’s go 1991!
1992
Robin Grasso Dobbs
While on spring break, my husband Marc, our kids, Brooklyn and Cooper, and I traveled to NYC. One of our first destinations (after a ride on a subway of course!) was to walk over the Brooklyn Bridge to spend the day with Karima Hassan Hopkins and her daughter, Cleo! It was so great to catch up while the kids enjoyed the playground and more. It was an awesome reminder of how true friends can reconnect (and their kids can connect) so seamlessly! Karima, her husband Mark, and Cleo live in Brooklyn, NY, where Karima continues to teach seventh grade math at the Berkeley Carroll School. Her love of math and math puns has even prompted Karima to hand-stitch such puns on bags and pillows! We are still living in Orlando, FL, where I am a VP, US Operations of Accredited Surety and Casualty. And, yes, Floridians travel north for spring break! The trip to NYC was a great experience for the kids to see a “real” city; it had such an impact on Brooklyn, she has now deemed Orlando to be “country-living”!
Justin Lacche
Most of you had four to five decades of positive times with Mr. Coyle and Mr. Denes, respectively. I send my condolences. While our mortal coils fade far sooner than they should, given the size of our universe, I find peace and gratitude in the whispers of what might be for the current and future GFA family. That is the legacy of Mr. Coyle and Mr. Denes. That is your legacy too.
Ariel Levinson-Waldman received a 2024 National Legal Aid & Defender Association Kutak-Dodds Prize, given to two lawyers in the United States to recognize extraordinary contributions to advancing access to justice and racial equity in civil legal aid and public defense.
09
1997
Max Rosenberg Hey Everyone! The Rosenbergs are still in Stratford. I continue to run my bankruptcy/ personal injury firm, Rosenberg & Hite, LLC. I am in my second term and sixth year as a judge in Stratford. My oldest son, Zohar, is studying at UCONN and studying molecular biology. He’s very excited. He also completed his Eagle Scout
project this summer and planting trees around Stratford. My youngest, Asher, got his driver’s permit. Pedestrians beware. We have adopted two new rescue dogs: Argos and Fizgig. I hope everyone is healthy and well, and my door is always open if you want to reconnect or just have a quick question.
1999
Emily Epstein
After a rewarding acting career, I decided to pursue my second passion: mental health. I graduated from Fordham Graduate School of Social Services in December with a master’s in social work. I officially started in February as a clinical behavioral healthcare specialist and the dedicated social worker for a new Genetics and Personalized Cancer Prevention program at Weill Cornell Medicine. We work with those that have hereditary cancer mutations (something I am very familiar with). It’s a dream job, and proof it’s never too late to change directions! I still live in Brooklyn with my husband, Jonathan, and our nine-year-old daughter, Samantha, who is a budding actress and singer!
Deborah Hoffman
I made my annual trip back to New Orleans for Mardi Gras this past February with Mary Benko Fawcett, and my sister, Sarah Hoffman ’95. We met up with Sarah Lehmann Dixon and Lindsay Mathieson ’95, who attended GFA between 1988–1991. We all had a wonderful time reminiscing, catching up, and taking in all New Orleans has to offer that time of year!
2001
Michelle Cole Bickford ’01 and her husband, Andrew, recently welcomed a new baby girl, Rory, to their family! Rory (Marjorie Marion) was born on May 17, 2024. Big sister Mia (Amelia Anne) LOVES “our new baby little Rory.”
Jackie Garbutt is living in Somerset, England with her husband Alex, and two children, Frankie and Georgie. She’s working as a series producer for Netflix. Her highlight of 2023 was having cocktails with the gorgeous, amazing Christine Daley in London!
2002
Leslie LeClair Omohundro and her husband, Thomas, gave birth to their first child, a baby girl, Naomi Olivia, on March 25, 2023.
2004
Sarah Chostner
Our biggest news is that we’ve made the decision as a family
to move back to the Boston area in August 2024. We will be in Brookline in time for my oldest to go to kindergarten. We are really excited to be back east and be closer to family, although we will miss the weather and farmer’s markets of San Francisco. On the professional front, I officially launched Aprium Advisors a year and a half ago; it is a consulting practice to support mission-driven leaders to tackle their most urgent HR & talent needs. I’m loving the work and the clients, learning how to run a business, and the flexibility it provides for my life with two young kids.
Nicholas D’Addario
In November 2023, I was honored and humbled to be elected to the Board of Selectmen in Easton, CT for a two-year term. I look forward to serving Easton’s residents.
Chris Piasecki and his wife, Sarah, welcomed their first son, Tucker Alden Piasecki, on May 3, 2024.
2006
Olivia Newhouse Stone and her husband Tyler welcomed their third child, Rosalie Claire Stone, on April 24, 2024.
2008
Charles Ahl
My wife Anne and I welcomed Wilhelmina “Willa” Miller Ahl into the world on November 7, 2023. Everyone is doing great!
Gordon Thompson
Our sweet and wonderful Anna was born in January, joining her older sister Claire (3) and brother Neil (5) as part of our growing family here in Riverside, CT. I can’t believe I have three kids—I am the luckiest dad. Come visit us and join in the fun!
Christina Whittaker and Brendhan Haas welcomed their second son, Robert William Haas, in September 2023.
2009
Ally Norton recently joined Ticketmaster as Director of Communications (North America). In her role, she leads public relations and strategic communications initiatives for Ticketmaster’s North American business, inclusive of music, sports, theater, and more. Outside of Ticketmaster, Ally consults for various organizations in the music, entertainment, and technology sectors, with a focus on communications strategy. She is based in Los Angeles, California.
2010
Francesca Murray and her husband, Taylor Gerhardt, welcomed a baby girl, India Stewart Gerhardt, on February 26, 2024.
2011
Crystal Johnson
Olivia Jack and Crystal Johnson enjoyed celebrating Liv’s most recent birthday in New York City.
Kaitlyn Morio
Kaitlyn graduated from Albert Einstein College of Medicine in May and started a pediatric residency at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City in July.
2012
Charles Rooney
I was ordained a Catholic priest with four of my classmates on May 25, 2024 at the Basilica of National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C. These last seven years as a Dominican friar in formation for the priesthood have been an immense blessing, the seeds of which were first sown in subtle ways at GFA! I served as a chaplain this summer at Memorial Sloan Kettering in New York City, assisting patients and their families with sacramental care and spiritual counsel.
2014
Ethan Friedson
I married Elizabeth Kitt on June 4, 2023. Elizabeth and I currently live in Connecticut with our dog Delilah.
Kelly Johns is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Medical Genetics at the University of British Columbia. Using neural organoid models of Alzheimer’s Disease and single-cell sequencing technology, she hopes to identify novel therapeutic avenues for dementia treatment.
2017
Caroline Kulak was admitted to Columbia Business School and joined the Class of 2026 this fall.
2019
Leon Calzone is working at Coca-Cola Northeast in graphic design & printing.
FACULTY
Christopher Brown
I spent my first six years teaching English and philosophy and coaching at GFA, and they were among the best years of my 40-year teaching career. I worked with amazing people like Coyle, King, Jessupp, Hardon, Eicher, Keller, Holland, McCawley, Loomis, Beltz, Clements, Falato, Stolze, Bradford, and finally, the especially unforgettable, Ed Denes. I have managed to reach the age of 77 after finally retiring from English teaching in 2019. I have done it for schools and enjoyed them all, but my heart lies with GFA and the foundation of the teacher I became. I created the school’s first AP English course with Jim Coyle and David King’s encouragement. I taught a college-level philosophy course to seniors. It was a glorious time, and my colleagues and students made it so. Thanks to all, alive and departed. I will never forget you. I invite my former students to come visit me.
Michelle Cole Bickford ’01 and her family
Leslie LeClair Omohundro’s ’02 daughter, Naomi
Sarah Chostner ’04 and her daughter
Nick D’Addario ’04 and son, Fritz, at Nick’s swearing-in as a newly elected member of the Easton, CT Board of Selectmen
Chris Piasecki’s ’09 son, Tucker Alden Piasecki
Rosalie Claire Stone, daughter of Olivia Newhouse Stone ’06
Cort Ahl’s ’08 daughter, Willa Ahl
Christina Whittaker ’08 with her son, Robert
Olivia Jack ’11 and Crystal Johnson ’11 in New York City
Brynley Close ’17
IN MEMORIAM
JOSEPHINE HANLON TATE
CLASS OF 1949
Jo was born in 1931, in Weehawken, New Jersey, and grew up in Westport, Connecticut as an accomplished equestrian and artist. She received a B.A. at McGill University, after which she traveled extensively. In Westport, she met Stephen Tate; they married in 1955 and together raised four children, including Charlotte Tate ’78.
Jo taught art at Fairfield Country Day after attaining a teacher’s degree at the University of Bridgeport and worked for a few travel agencies, which helped her pursue her passion for travel. She was a bright light to so many and will be dearly missed.
CANDACE RAYMOND RAVEIS
CLASS OF 1965
Candy died peacefully, on October 20, 2023. She was a beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend. In addition to her many volunteer activities, Candy was an extraordinary artist and designer.
Born in Bridgeport, Connecticut, her education began at The Kathleen Laycock Country Day School and The Knox School. She then went on to Stephens College, where she graduated with a B.A. in voice and theater. She and Bill Raveis were married in 1999. Candy shined everywhere she went with her endless compassion, philanthropy, and leadership. Candy lived with acute myeloid leukemia for the last 10 years of her life and embodied an extraordinary combination of joy, bravery, and resilience.
SARA LANE MACALLASTER CLASS OF 1974
Sara Lane MacAllaster passed away on April 1, 2024. Sara was active in her community, giving much of her time and effort to volunteerism, and found the most joy in time spent with her family and friends, including daugher, Alexandra MacAllaster Brooks ’14. Among the many who loved her, Sara was known for her empathy, her kindness, and her fierce sense of loyalty.
VIRGINIA PERRY WORCESTER CLASS OF 1975
Ginny passed away on October 21, 2023 after a valiant battle with pancreatic cancer. A natural educator, Ginny was a beloved second grade teacher and coach at GFA from 1998-2012, as well as the varsity sailing coach at Fairfield University, Sacred Heart University, Staples High School, and Fairfield Warde High School. Following her teaching career, Ginny found her passion in elder care and earned her Certified Nursing Aide license.
Ginny’s true passion was being on the water. She was a competitive sailboat racer and represented the U.S. three times in the Women’s Singlehanded World Championships in the 1980s, bringing home both a silver and bronze medal.
After graduating from Ohio Wesleyan University, Ginny returned to the Fairfield area, where she raised her family and received her M.A. in Teaching and Foundations of Education from Fairfield University.
MARNIE WAIWAT
CLASS OF 1986
Marnie was born in Connecticut, attending GFA, and ultimately graduated from Joel Barlow High School. She then went on to Boston University. Marnie returned to Easton in 2002 to care for her ailing mother. Marnie was a unique soul with a heart of gold, always trying to help others in need.
GORDON VERRILL
CLASS OF 2006
Gordon passed away in November of 2023. He was born in New York City and grew up in Southport, Connecticut. At GFA, he was a treasured member of the class of 2006, shining as a playwright and in school theater productions. After GFA, Gordon went on to Cornell University, where he studied fashion business and management. Upon graduation, he made his home and nurtured his community in New York City.
He is remembered by his sister Sarah Verrill Refalo ’10, his loving extended family, and the large group of friends whose lives he touched. He was a dynamic performer, a consummate host, and a cherished friend with the keenest of eyes and the sharpest of wits. He will be dearly missed.
KEVIN DOYLE
CLASS OF 2009
Kevin passed away on October 17, 2023. He was born in Bridgeport, Connecticut on April 19, 1991, seven minutes before his twin sister, Emily Doyle ’09. He was raised in Fairfield, where he attended Fairfield Country Day School, GFA, and Fairfield Ludlowe High School. He graduated from George Washington University in 2013.
Kevin’s strong passions included food, wine, traveling, and fishing with his brother, Matt. He adored his friends from different chapters of life and felt such happiness when spending time with them.
CHUCK GEDGE, JR.
FORMER FACULTY
Chuck was born on June 1, 1944, and died on October 22, 2023, in West Chester, Pennsylvania at the age of 79. He is survived by his wife, Karin Erdevig Gedge, and sons, Erick Gedge ’92 and Charlie Gedge ’97. A graduate of Glenbard High School, Lake Forest College (B.A.), and Roosevelt University (M.A.) in Illinois, Mr. Gedge taught students from fourth grade to graduate school in public and independent schools and universities. One of his proudest educational accomplishments was designing and instituting the annual sophomore schooner trips at GFA, where he worked as the head of Upper School from 1971-2000.
VICTORIA HILL
FORMER FACULTY
Vicky passed away on July 18, 2024 surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Bridgeport and was a lifelong Fairfield resident. She worked as a receptionist at GFA, retiring after 22 years of service. Vicky delighted in time spent with her family and will be sadly missed.
JIM COYLE HEAD OF SCHOOL 1972–1998
James M. Coyle, Headmaster at Greens Farms Academy from 1972 until 1998, passed away peacefully on November 8, 2023. His life was rich in accomplishment, achieved through a commitment to care, study, effort, and joy.
“GFA would not be the school it is today if not for this exceptional yet unfailingly humble school leader,” remarked current Head of School Bob Whelan. Former Board Chair Henry Von Kohorn P ’93, ’96 shared similar sentiments: “Throughout his headship, Jim exemplified integrity, courage, civility, and strength of character. He made a difference in many lives–students, faculty, and the entire GFA family. We are all better for having known Jim Coyle.”
Born on June 4, 1934, in Hartford, Connecticut, Jim grew up in Fairfield, where he attended Fairfield Country Day School and then public schools until his sophomore year, when he transferred to the Taft School, from which he graduated in 1952. Four years later, he would graduate cum laude from Yale with a B.A. in history. With his degree in hand, Jim returned to Taft, where he began his illustrious 40-plus years working in education.
At Taft, Jim taught a rather impressive combination of courses in history, English, and math while also coaching. After two years, he left Taft to enter the U.S. Army and, for three
years, worked in counterintelligence. Upon his honorable discharge, Jim served for 13 years on the faculty of King School. In 1962, he graduated with an M.A. in history from Columbia and married the love of his life, Marg. While still at King, Marg and Jim were blessed with two daughters, Christi and Jill ’85, who quickly became the lights of their lives.
In 1972, Jim took the helm at GFA, a place he would work for the next 26 years and love for the remainder of his life. Not only did Jim embrace his role as Head, he said it was “the best job in the world.” As proof, his license plate proudly proclaimed, “HDMSTR.” When Jim retired, he and Marg moved to Tucson, Arizona—most said so that he could play golf more often. However, Jim often shared that when he stepped off the plane, Tucson just felt like home. Play golf he would, but Jim also enjoyed spending time with his family, reading, doing crosswords, watching the Yankees, and making the best strawberry daiquiris in the nation.
Shortly before he died, Mr. Whelan shared an aerial photo of GFA’s breathtaking campus with Jim, who received it with great delight. “It’s a wonderful memento that shall be on display where I can see it daily,” he wrote to Bob. “It warms my heart, a significant part of which remains somewhere on those 44 acres.”
“Faculty wanted to teach under and with Jim, and students wanted to come to school. Jim Coyle’s magical presence was seen in the classroom, in the hallways, on the athletic fields, and in the way people interacted with each other. It was my privilege to be there during his tenure. Indeed, he orchestrated his time at GFA to be “magical”!
ed denes
former faculty
“As I look back on the history of GFA, I feel that I built a small bridge from a girls' school to a coeducational one, but it was Jim who caused the boys to cross that bridge. He made GFA into a leading and highly regarded coeducational school.”
Nancy Lauber ’51
Headmistress of GFA, 1964-1972
“Jim will long be remembered by my husband, Richard, and me for inspiring our kids with his wise message: ‘Do well, but do good too.’
Thank you, Jim.”
Nan Ruben P ’90, ’94, ’99; GP ’20, ’24, ’27
Former Trustee
“Jim Coyle was epic in so many ways. Brilliant, strong, and full of grace, he shaped the lives of so many. What a gift, and what a legacy. Were it not for him, my path would most certainly have been a very different one.”
Roz Koether Stephanak ’82
“James M. Coyle
It took courage to come here. It took tact to become ‘one of us’ unobtrusively. It takes humor to cope with our constant crises. Mr. Coyle has all of these qualities, but more important is the genuine concern which he shows at every turn. We're glad he came.”
1973 Yearbook
NANCY LAUBER
HEAD OF SCHOOL 1964–1972
Nancy Ellen Lauber ’51, an esteemed alumna, former faculty member, and the fourth Head of School of Greens Farms Academy, passed away on October 5. She was 90 years old.
Nancy was born on January 22, 1934 and was raised in East Norwalk, Connecticut. In 1941, she enrolled as a third-grade student at Bolton, graduating ten years later as the president of her class. An ardent sportswoman, Nancy was a member of the school’s hockey, basketball, riding, and tennis teams; drama and The Boltonian student newspaper were two of her other pastimes. From Bolton, she pursued a bachelor of arts in mathematics at Middlebury College and was interviewing to become an engineer at General Electric when she received a call from Bolton’s Headmistress, Kathleen Laycock, requesting that she instead join the Bolton faculty to teach math. Thus, in 1955, Nancy returned to Connecticut to teach and coach at her alma mater. As Bolton expanded, and Grades 6-12 were incorporated into the new Kathleen Laycock Country Day School, Nancy became a formidable fixture of Laycock’s Upper School. She taught math and physics, coached hockey, directed athletics, and served as the assistant headmaster for a year. Admired and respected by her students, Miss Lauber quickly earned her reputation as an honest, student-centered educator whose investment in the young women in her care extended well beyond the classroom. “Without a doubt, Miss Lauber was the best coach and mentor that I ever had,” praised alumna Jennifer Escher Sheehan ’61, who eventually became a teacher herself, with Miss Lauber as her model. “I always tried to follow her example of being positive and bringing out the best in every student.” In their yearbook dedication, seniors from the Class of 1959 lauded their dear teacher for her “unending patience and friendship;” seniors from the Class of 1964 conveyed similar sentiment. “We feel a kinship with Miss Lauber as if she were one of us,” they wrote. “We thank her for her… interest, and most of all, her sense of humor.”
According to the 1951 yearbook, Nancy’s classmates portended that she would one day be in charge of The Bolton School—“ Lo! There is Nancy Lauber as Principal. Listen to her say to her students, ‘What is the significance of that?’” In
1964, she fulfilled this prophecy when she was appointed as the Headmistress of Laycock. Succeeding William Posey, Nancy faithfully led the school for eight years—an eventful period in which enrollment doubled, the Kindergarten was added, the Beachside Avenue campus expanded to include an auditorium, gymnasium, and cafeteria, and most notably, The Kathleen Laycock Country Day School became a coeducational institution that was renamed Greens Farms Academy in 1970. Nancy was particularly proud that she hired Ed Denes, and was confident that, when she resigned from GFA to become the Head of The Shipley School in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, she was leaving her former employer in the best hands with Jim Coyle. “The faculty at GFA was terrific,” she once marveled. “They were very loyal to the school, to me, and to each other.”
Thank you, Headmistress Lauber, for your extraordinary leadership as a student, teacher, coach, and head. You helped steer our beloved GFA to become the thriving, transformative, coeducational school it is today. We are humbled and grateful.
“My message begins with all the reverence of a ten year old when I would utter your name, and gaze up at the tall, imposing figure of kindness and authority that you were. I send you my deepest thanks, and most sincere gratitude for all that you have given me.”
Renata Crosby ’76
“I came to Laycock in Ninth Grade, and Miss Layber brought out my athletic talent. With her help, I achieved a lot of goals, and that has carried me on throughout my life. Without a doubt, she was the best coach and mentor that I ever had.”
Jennifer Escher Sheehan ’61
“We, the Class of 1964, dedicate our yearbook to Miss Nancy Lauber. We greatly respect Miss Lauber, and yet we feel a kinship with her as if she were one of us. We thank her for her friendship, her interest, and most of all, her sense of humor.”
1964 yearbook
“She somehow managed to be informal and fun-loving, yet remain respected at the same time. She could be tough when warranted, but always maintained a supportive stance.”
Ann Reeves ’60, P ’84, ’92
ED DENES FORMER FACULTY
Edward J. Denes, a Greens Farms Academy legend who served the school and hundreds of lucky students from 1965 until 2008, passed away on February 24, 2024. He was 80 years old. Ed grew up in Connecticut and graduated from Notre Dame High School. He earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Fairfield University and a master’s from Fordham. After attending a dance at St. Vincent’s School of Nursing in February of 1963, he met the love of his life, Cathleen. “Nothing in life is perfect, but our almost 55 years of marriage was pretty darn close,” he once said. Ed and Cathy were blessed with two children, Michelle and Kristen, who, along with the Denes grandchildren, are invaluable stewards of Ed’s larger-than-life legacy.
Ed’s numerous roles during his GFA tenure were wide-ranging and wide-reaching: Upper School Math and Science Teacher, Registrar, Assistant Head of Upper School, Chair of the Computer Science Department, Co-Director of Transportation, Dean of Students, Scheduling Supervisor, and Advisor to Student Council. He also held several less formal titles: Lost-and-Found Chairman, Dress-Code Cop, Fire-Drill Evacuator, Foreman of Set Construction, Talent Show Founder, and many more. Yet the role Big D was most known for was as Ultimate Cheerleader; a champion who made everyone—students and colleagues alike—feel like he was rooting for them. He was known for having an open-door policy for any student looking for help—whether they were working on a college application, reviewing a paper, or seeking guidance in their life. Upon learning of his passing, Head of School Bob Whelan paid tribute to his dear mentor. “The enduring impact that Ed Denes had on all who were fortunate enough to be in his orbit is, indeed, incalculable. And, despite the deep sadness we feel about the loss of a legendary colleague and friend, his indomitable, positive spirit remains alive and well in the halls here at Greens Farms Academy.”
Ed was best known for his Catholic faith, generous spirit, and positive mindset. He had a love of baseball, basketball, music, games, and math. He will be greatly missed–and greatly remembered.
“Maya Angelou famously said, ‘People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.’ Mr. Denes made us all feel truly valued. And as I look back on my youth with thickening fog, today I’ve had no trouble finding a myriad of memories with Mr. Denes. Great teachers, but also great people, bring out the best in others. They make their peers feel confident and joyful. Mr. Denes exemplified this leadership.”
Mike Pavils ’08
“Not a day goes by when the positive impact Big D had on me doesn’t show itself. Like so many others, when I was young and unsure and needed some guidance, he just stepped in and gave me exactly what was needed, providing support while helping to build my confidence. The true testament to his greatness is just how many people he did this for over so many years. Big D showed me the type of human we should all be—a standard I still try to reach to this day.”
Rusty Cappadona ’83
“Mr. Denes is the person who made the GFA community feel like an extended family to me. Having taught my mother, Linda Koury ’73, he would always recount memories of her time in his math class. As a middle and upper schooler, having someone who really knew me was a true gift, one I cherish years later and still feel with warmth. You will be so missed, Mr. Denes. Thank you for making GFA feel like home.”
Christina Ducruet Ross ’04, P ’34, ’36
“At our Class’s 25-year reunion, Ed worked his way through the crowd, and to our amazement, he not only recognized each of us and greeted us each by name, but recalled an anecdote about each one of us. We were astounded—could it be that we all looked exactly the same as we had at 18? Some of my classmates had not been back to GFA in a quarter century, but Ed knew us all. I told Jim Coyle this story the next day, and he said, ‘I know your Class is very special, but the incredible thing is that Ed could do that with the 25 who followed you, too.’”
Kendall Crolius ‘71, P ’06,
’09
“Ed was everything GFA stands for; his commitment to challenging and nurturing generations of young people truly made him the father of Dragons. Whether teaching math and computer science in the classroom, crafting the schedule to allow students to explore their passions and for faculty to partner with them in the process, leading the talent show, or draining a 20-footer in the faculty/senior basketball game, Ed made his presence felt in every imaginable way. His encyclopedic memory amazed me in his ability to recall legions of students. I remember Jim Coyle remarking that, when he came to interview for the Headship, the first person he met when he came on campus was Ed. Two legends in the making greeted each other; I can’t think of a better way to capture what Ed means to the history of GFA.”
Ian Campbell, GFA History Teacher, 1993-2023
Centennial
Red vs. Blue
In advance of GFA’s upcoming Centennial in 2025, we are taking a look back. Please email Ana Holwell, Director of Alumni Relations, at aholwell@gfacademy.org if you recognize anyone in these archive photos.
Thanksgiving Pub Night
Wednesday, November 27, 2024, 6:30–8:00 PM
Local Fairfield
85 Mill Plain Road, Fairfield, CT
Young Alumni Visiting Day (Class of ’21–’24)
Thursday, January 9, 2025, 11:00 AM–1:30 PM
35 Beachside Avenue, Westport, CT
Centennial State of the School
Thursday, January 23, 2025, 7:00–8:00 PM
35 Beachside Avenue, Westport, CT
Giving Day
Thursday, May 8, 2025
centennial Reunion Weekend
Friday, June 6 & Saturday, June 7, 2025
35 Beachside Avenue, Westport, CT
GFA engages students as partners in an innovative, inclusive, and globally minded community to prepare them for lives of purpose.
