Milestones 2016

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EXCELLENCE

ACHIEVEMENT • 2016

Commencement Reflections from the 2016 “Lifers” Closing Exercises for Middle and Lower School

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Table of Contents FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 COMMENCEMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 THE 2016 “GSB LIFERS”. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 MIDDLE SCHOOL CLOSING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 LOWER SCHOOL CLOSING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

What is Milestones?

Milestones is published annually by the Communications and Marketing Department to celebrate the graduating class at Gill St. Bernard’s School. The magazine also highlights GSB’s eighth and fourth grade students as they transition to the Upper and Middle School divisions, respectively. As a private college preparatory school that offers a pre-k through 12th grade education, Gill St. Bernard’s is also proud to recognize its annual “GSB Lifers” (graduating seniors who have matriculated at Gill for 12 years or more) in each issue of Milestones.

Gill St. Bernard’s Milestones magazine is published annually by the Communications and Marketing Department.

Sid Rowell, Head of School

Kristen Armstrong

Tim Davis

Shannon Ludlum

Sarah Rowland

Allyson B. Daly, Director of Communications and Marketing

Tracey Goodson Barrett

Judy Dechent

Andrew Lutz

Margery Schiesswohl

Larry Bostian

Marilyn Dori

Derek Martin

Mark Signorelli

Macada Brandl

Solomon Fleckman

Takisha McCall-Sulton

Kerri Ann Small

Julia Britt

Tom Gilbert

Irene Mortensen

David Southerland

Ed Brown

Carolyn Giordano

Amy Newman

Michiel Stil

Paul Canada

Emilia Giordano

Kathleen O’Connor

Steven Summerer

Cover image by Becky Bedrosian P ’11 of Becky Bedrosian Photography. Additional photography in this issue also by Becky Bedrosian Photography and by GSB staff photographers unless otherwise noted.

Michael Cascini

Fernando Gomez

Lauren O’Leary

Meredith Swenson

Brittany Casser

Carrie Grabowski

Cynthia Orr

Noreen Syed

Christine Chan

Len Grabowski

Robert Ort

John Taeschler

Design by Vision Creative Group.

Michael Chimes

Claudia Hesler

David Pasquale

Irv Taylor

Jared Ciocco

Sarah Isusi

Sue Petrone

Kim Turse

Gerry Cirillo

Leo Janas

Sharon Poticny

Greg Washburn

Isabel Corbin

Allison Kochis

Eileen Procaccino

Gina Wendell

Fred Corona

Melissa Lewis

Candace Pryor-Brown

Michael Wendell

Gill St. Bernard’s School P.O. Box 604, St. Bernard’s Road Gladstone, NJ 07934-0604 908-234-1611 gsbschool.org facebook.com/gsbschool

Some freelance writing by Bill Thorndike.

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UPPER SCHOOL FACULTY, STAFF and ADMINISTRATION

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From the Head of School

Milestones

• EXCELLENCE • ACHIEVEMENT • 2016

At Convocation last September, Gill St. Bernard’s officially welcomed back 94 seniors­­—the largest class in the history of the school. That designation carried with it not only a measure of pride for our community—reflecting the continued growth and health of the school—but also a sense of expectation. Perhaps no group has greater influence on the daily life of the school than its graduating class. How they act as well as their other achievements ultimately determines the type of legacy they will leave upon graduation. This issue of Milestones celebrates that legacy—one marked not only by accomplishments in academics, the arts and athletics—but also by the integrity, sportsmanship and spirit of community with which the Class of 2016 has led the school.

Among this group are 21 Lifers, students who have been with us since first grade or earlier. Several of them have been part of the school since 2001, when they began in the Primary 3-4 classroom.

That year marked a beginning for me as well, my first as Head of School for Gill St. Bernard’s. I have had the special privilege of being able to see each of our Lifers literally grow up at Gill. Along the way, I also had the opportunity to welcome every new member of the Class of 2016 as he or she joined the school. It is with particular pride that I watch these new alumni now make their way into the larger world, beginning with the colleges and universities they will be attending this fall. They are ambassadors for the core values that Gill holds dear—courage, integrity, respect, compassion and excellence—and they are ready to make a significant contribution to a world sorely in need of those values.

In closing, I would like to acknowledge and thank the parents of all our recent graduates. They have entrusted us with the education of their children and supported us in these efforts. We are partners in this process and the outcomes speak for themselves.

Warm regards,

Sid Rowell

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Commencement

Milestones

• EXCELLENCE • ACHIEVEMENT • 2016

Commencement 2016 Inspiration From Our Graduates A longstanding tradition at Gill St. Bernard’s, and one that reflects its deeply held sense of community—members of the graduating class, rather than an outside speaker, address the gathering. Among this year’s seniors, Shannah Finkel sang Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah, Destiny Salter offered a poem of her own creation and several others took a moment to reflect on their time at Gill St. Bernard’s and share words of friendship, gratitude and wisdom.

Sarah Abowitz Don’t give up on this dream of yours. It is more than your dream, it is what you will achieve with constant attention, and if people tell you to let it die, fixate on it even harder.

Chances are, there is generally someone at Gill willing to support you on your journey. Aeneas couldn’t have founded Rome by himself, don’t forget. So go forth, find your Rome, devote yourself to whatever passion you end up following, because it is your duty. And if you ever feel as if you have completed your circle and you cannot progress any further in your field, remember this: The world is your classroom.

Caty Matthews

Lucy Dunn It ’s good sometimes to look back on the past because it makes the future a little clearer. When I look back on my time at Gill, I have not only grown as a student, but as an individual. GSB has allowed me to open up to new possibilities and new expectations.

Lillie Wilson We’ve been wishing away the days of homework and tests since freshman year, but as I stand in front of you now I’d gladly take a vocab quiz from Ms. P if it meant I didn’t have to leave the place I love.

James Grant

Sam Zimmer I can’t wait to see what the future has in store.

Mom, Dad and anyone else who has helped me grow into the person standing here today: Thank you.

Mycroft Zimmerman

Michael Iannaconi

Life doesn’t begin at the edge of your comfort zone. Life is a quest for your comfort zone. It’s hopping one-legged from place to place, searching for the right spot with the right people. I have found comfort here, and now I have to leave it. I have to let go of one monkey bar and hope I can grab onto the next. And I’m giving this speech right now because somewhere between letting go and grabbing on, I heard a voice in my head that told me “you’re going to miss this.”

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Where we go from here, college and beyond, is a path of our own making. What we take from here is our origin story, our Smallville or Gotham, and the education we were given our crystal bridge from Asgard. We have our opportunity to wear the mask. To change the world, not for personal gain, but for the better. To create words and speak our minds, and to take the criticism and build from it.

My class ring sits on the fourth finger of my right hand and though I know the words will one day fade with age like letters drawn in the sand, for now they stand out: GSB Class of 2016 written in raised letters of fastidiously fashioned precious metal sunlit gold gleaming like the flicker of zeal in our eyes reminiscent of the spark

As a very-soon-to-be graduate of a school that has dedicated itself, quite literally, to pushing the boundaries of education, I want to offer you all a piece of advice: Make the world your classroom. that ignited in our hearts and lit up young minds forged by the scholarly fires that the faculty carefully stoked and refined under the aid of our advisors who would help us undergo the transformation from fresh-faced freshmen to young adults with sharp minds and charitable souls prepared to turn ambitious aspirations into readily-attained goals

and finish the first leg of the journey that started four years ago the day we slowly strode through those doors blind, deaf and uninformed of what the future had in store to a place that would teach us, among many things the words inscribed on the inside of my class ring: “Go and make the world yours.”

- Destiny Salter

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Clockwise, from top left: (l. to r.) William Clayton ’16, Kaitlyn Moriarty ’16, Morgan Margolis ’16, Jada Davis ’16, Carolyn Najarian ’16, Kara Saladino ’16 and Luke Fischer ’16; Lauren McBride ’16 and Hedy Jin ’16; Allie Udoff ’16 hugs her mother Janine Udoff, chair of the board of trustees; William Clayton ’16; (l. to r.) Hope Fluet ’16, Jessica Torgovnik ’16, Amanda Leonhard ’16 and Jacqueline Fuentes ’16; Kennedy Whitehead ’16 and her family; Members of the Class of 2016 sing the Alma Mater; Members of the Class of 2016 during the processional.

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2016 Commencement Honors and Prizes (In order of acceptance)

During the Commencement ceremony, several seniors were recognized for their achievements and contributions in academics, arts and athletics as well as for community service and service to the school.

Milestones

• EXCELLENCE • ACHIEVEMENT • 2016

Congratulations

Frances B. Rohn Memorial Award

Named in honor of a former mathematics teacher at The Gill School, this award is given to that student who has achieved the highest four-year average in mathematics. Carter Silvey

Carol J. Heaney Memorial Award

Sarah Abowitz

Trevor Bali

Nathaniel Benoit

Colette Bilynsky

Dylan Blackman

Camila Castano

Xiaoxuan “Camille” Chen

Ryan Chestnutt

William Clayton

William Conlan

Sophie Connell

Emma Corbett

Jada Davis

Michael Del Priore

Samantha Delehanty

Samantha DeRing

Lucille Dunn

Sahara Ensley

Gavin Ferruggia

Shannah Finkel

In memory of a beloved science teacher of many years at GSB, this award recognizes that student who has demonstrated intellectual curiosity, outstanding academic achievement and superior promise in the study of science throughout Upper School. Ludi Zhu

History Department Award

This book prize is presented annually to those seniors selected by the department as having done the most outstanding work in history. William Conlan

Peapack-Gladstone Bank Award

This award denotes a savings bond from the Peapack-Gladstone Bank, and is given to that senior with the highest four-year average in English. Michael Iannaconi

Patricia Lee Gauch Award for Creative Writing

The Patricia Lee Gauch Award for Creative Writing, annually recognizing a beloved English teacher from the 1970s, Patti Gauch, is presented to that senior whose inventive voice, artful storytelling and disciplined work contribute to the literary life of Gill St. Bernard’s School. Destiny Salter and Catarina Matthews

World Language Department Award

A book prize awarded to that senior with the highest four-year average in French, Spanish or Latin. Ludi Zhu

Computer Science Award

This distinction annually honors that graduating senior who has demonstrated interest, aptitude and exemplary achievement in computer science throughout Upper School, excelling in computer programming, computer-aided design or both.

Ravi Malik

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Milestones

• EXCELLENCE • ACHIEVEMENT • 2016

Visual Arts Award

The Visual Arts Award is presented to a senior who has shown exceptional artistic talent in any area of the visual arts, including painting, drawing, sculpture, woodworking and photography. Ludi Zhu

Class of 2016

Lisa Schmidt Music Award

Established by Lisa Schmidt of the Class of 1974, this award is given to a senior to recognize his or her musical talent and contributions, and to inspire growth and participation in the field of music.

Aniello Ianniello Luke Fischer

Hope Fluet

Jacqueline Fuentes

Madeleine Gallic

Joyce Creasey Memorial Award

An award recognizing that senior girl whose ability, leadership, sportsmanship and team loyalty have contributed most to the Knights’ athletic program.

Krishna Patel

Harold D. Nicholls Memorial Award

James Grant

Kathryn Harback

George Harris

Aaron Hinton

This award is presented to the best male senior-athlete, in memory of Harold D. Nicholls, a teacher, coach, senior master and headmaster who served St. Bernard’s School between 1917 and 1957. Daniel Sivolella

Bennett Service Award

Benjamin Hiramoto

Huize “Katherine” Huang

Michael Iannaconi

Aniello Ianniello

Presented in memory of Caryl and J. Gordon Bennett, this award was established by The Gill School Parents’ Committee and honors that student whose community service activities best show concern and consideration toward others. Mycroft Zimmerman

Susan H. Stover Award

First introduced in 2003, this award honors Susan H. Stover, former director of development at Gill St. Bernard’s, and is presented annually to that senior who demonstrates the highest level of service and loyalty to the school.

Emma Corbett

Lindabury Senior Honor Award Patrick Janas

Lihong “Hedy” Jin

Malika Jones

Charles Kasman

Established by the Class of 2007, this award is presented to that senior who has positively affected the experiences of underclassmen by working hard to be a person of inclusion, demonstrating compassion and thoughtfulness, and acting as a role model and a leader. Connor Klementowicz (cont. on next page)

Connor Klementowicz

Samantha Kramer

Paul Kruger

Tyler Kwaak

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Caporusso/DeLuca Award

This award, established by two graduates from the Class of 1996, honors that senior who has provided distinct leadership over the past four years, enabling others to share in extracurricular programs and providing leadership throughout Upper School activities. Samuel Zimmer

Joshua Layden

Amanda Leonhard

Bruce Li

McKenna Lieblich

Songhua “Vina” Liu

Jacqueline Luberto

Ravi Malik

Veronica Maoli

Morgan Margolis

Catarina Matthews

Lauren McBride

William Metzler

Elisabeth Middleton

Adam Mitola

Jennifer Montejo

Kaitlyn Moriarty

Carolyn Najarian

Gregory Niccolai

Andrew Noll

Jane O’Connor

Marc Orazietti

Naina Pai

Sebastian Pampalone

Krishna Patel

Julian T. Brown Cup

A St. Bernard’s School tradition since 1913, this silver cup represents the highest honor a male senior can obtain while at GSB. The recipient must work for the good of the school, show thoughtfulness, maintain integrity and, above all, exemplify characteristics of faith, honor and consideration. Ravi Malik

Elizabeth Gill Girl Award

The highest honor to be attained by a female senior while at GSB, the annual recipient of the Elizabeth Gill Girl Award must work for the good of the school, show thoughtfulness, maintain integrity and, above all, exemplify characteristics of faith, honor and consideration. Kennedy Whitehead

Jean Loizeaux Award

This award is given to that senior holding the top academic record in the class. Kara Saladino and Ludi Zhu

Honor Board Award

This award recognizes those seniors who served on the Upper School Honor Board during this 2015-16 academic year. Jada Davis, Patrick Janas, McKenna Lieblich, Will Metzler and Lillie Wilson

Cum Laude Society

Founded in 1906, the Cum Laude Society recognizes excellence, justice and honor in secondary schools. An association of 382 chapters worldwide, membership within cum laude is granted to those students who rank among the top 20 percent of their graduating class. Collette Bilynsky, William Conlan, Emma Corbett, Sahara Ensley Luke Fischer, Kathryn Huang Michael Iannaconi, Patrick Janas, McKenna Lieblich, Amanda Leonhard, Ravi Malik, Marc Orazietti, Sebastian Pampalone, Kara Saladino, Carter Silvey, Sam Zimmer, Mycroft Zimmerman and Ludi Zhu

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Ross Pollack

Zoe Quan-Shau

Brian Quispe

James Raia

Nicolas Ricciardi

Jacqueline Roettger

Nicholas Ross

Kara Saladino

Destiny Salter

Alexander Showell

Carter Silvey

Preet Singh

Daniel Sivolella

George Stiuso

Julius Stoma

Matthew Taylor

Claire Todd

Jessica Torgovnik

Renee Turner

Alexandra Udoff

Michael Urowsky

Emily Wainen

Kennedy Whitehead

Katherine Williams

Lillie Wilson

Levering Wolfe

Haoxi “Linda” Xu

Ludi Zhu

Samuel Zimmer

Mycroft Zimmerman

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THE 2016

L ifers

GSB

Left Side From Left: Greg Niccolai, Josh Layden, Dylan Blackman, Sam Delehanty, Kaitlyn Moriarty, James Raia Center Back Row From Left: Jackie Luberto, Kara Saladino, Morgan Margolis, Carolyn Najarian, Zoe Quan-Shau Center Middle Row From Left: Allie Udoff, Lillie Wilson Center Front Row From Left: Ludi Zhu, Amanda Leonhard Right Side From Left: Sebastian Pampalone, Jada Davis, Caty Matthews, Nate Benoit, Mycroft Zimmerman, Paul Kruger

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Nate Benoit 14 years

Dylan Blackman 14 years

Jada Davis 14 years

Nate Benoit remembers his sophomore year as a turning point—both in his approach to school, and also in himself.

Dylan Blackman said he has grown two and a half feet and gained about 200 pounds since he first arrived at Gill St. Bernard’s in 2002. Besides the obvious physical changes, Dylan said his time at Gill has shaped his personality, from the formerly shy and quiet kid he once was to the person he is today.

One of Jada Davis’ best memories of her time at Gill St. Bernard’s occurred during a unit trip to Italy.

“Middle School prepared me for my freshman year, but I didn’t take my studies as seriously as I should have,” he recalled. “Sophomore year really pushed me to be more focused and diligent as a student, and it also taught me the value of hard work as an individual.”

“GSB has given me all the necessary tools to succeed in life beyond high school,” Nate said.

“It also has taught me not to be afraid of the future. Instead, it has encouraged me to embrace it with open arms and give it my best.”

To that end, Nate, a licensed pilot, has been active with the Civil Air Patrol since 2012. He has also lived with a host family in South Korea as part of the Experiment in International Living program.

Nate credits Mr. Diamond, his history teacher and soccer coach, for helping him along the way. “I would say he has had the biggest impact on my life as a student. He pushed me to do my best, both in my academics and athletics, while also enjoying the experience.”

With his days as a Gill student behind him, Nate reflects, “The countless laughs and good times with friends through the years have left me with the most pleasant memories of Gill St. Bernard’s.” He added, “I will miss the close-knit relationships and the way everyone genuinely cares about everyone else. It’s hard to find a community like that.”

And for his parents, he said, “They have supported me in every step I took, no matter how small. They have given me so many opportunities to succeed, I could not begin to describe how grateful I am toward them.”

JV Baseball Varsity/JV Soccer: JV captain Miles for Matheny Saint Louis University

Sports, especially golf, have played a big part in Dylan’s personal development. He was captain of the varsity golf team, earning All-Conference recognition for the past two years, and he has also been a fixture on Gill’s championship soccer team. He traces his enthusiasm for golf to a unit during his sophomore year that helped him realize how much he loved the sport. “After the golf unit, I dedicated myself to becoming a great player, and I believe that I have.”

His involvement with the Blue Crew was also a huge part of his time at Gill. In fact, his favorite spot on campus is in the Athletic Center, just above the “S” in the word “Knights.” He explains, “Almost all of my best memories at Gill came in that spot because the Blue Crew was the biggest part of my experience at Gill.” (Dylan was also the guy under the GSB Knight costume at numerous sporting events.)

Reflecting on his “first home,” Dylan will miss “the school spirit and the great sense of community, the café and Mr. Wendell.” Looking ahead, he said, “I feel that as I grow older, I will give back to my community to be a part of it, like I was at Gill.”

Dylan said he will always be grateful to his teachers and especially to his parents. “Thanks Mom and Dad,” he said.

Varsity Golf: Captain Varsity Soccer Admission Ambassador Blue Crew GSB Knight Mascot GSB Sports Tweets Peer Leader James Madison University

“We decided to hike up to the top of the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica,” she recalled. “The view was incredible. I will never forget running with my friends through the rain up and down the stairs in the Vatican. It was truly amazing.”

Jada, who will study business at Cornell in the fall, said she has always wanted to pursue a career that allows her to travel; her unit trip to Italy helped affirm her commitment to exploring the world.

Reflecting on her 14 years at the school, Jada said, “Gill has made me well-rounded, both as a person and student.”

She credits her academic advisor, Mrs. PryorBrown, with helping her along the way. “She was always there to help me work through my problem, or even just to provide me with a snack on a long day. Mrs. PB always brightens my day and I know I can count on her for anything,” she said.

Jada is an accomplished equestrian, and not surprisingly, her favorite location on campus is the stables. “I have ridden horses since I was little, and I have loved being able to visit the horses at any time,” she said.

As with all Gill “Lifers,” Jada was invited to say something to her parents. This was her reply: “To my mom, who passed away when I was in Lower School: I love you and thank you for always looking out for me. You’re always in my heart. And to my dad: I cannot even put into words how much of an inspiration you are to me. You inspire me to be more thoughtful and selfless with each day.

Thanks for always being there for me!”

Varsity Fencing: Captain Admission Ambassador Excalibur Gill for Diversity H.E.R.O. Honor Board H.O.P.E. Relay for Life Social Committee Young Women’s Club Cornell University

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Sam Delehanty 12 years

Paul Kruger 14 years

Josh Layden 15 years

Sam Delehanty said Gill St. Bernard’s allowed her to challenge herself. “I have developed more confidence in who I am and who I want to be, and that has pushed me to try my best in everything that I do, whether it is athletics or in the classroom,” she said.

Gill St. Bernard’s has provided a stage—literally —for Paul Kruger to explore his varied interests.

As a budding musician, he played guitar in the annual talent shows. He wrote articles for the student newspaper. As a member of Model UN, he participated in a mock midnight emergency session.

Josh Layden said being raised by the community at Gill St. Bernard’s, with its principles of respect, integrity, and honesty, is why he considers GSB his second home. Not to mention that he has attended the school since he was four.

Athletics has been an important part of Sam’s experience at Gill. She will never forget being part of the Prep B Championship softball team, and she said the gym is her favorite place on campus. “The gym has stayed constant throughout my time at Gill and has been the center of many friendships. Starting a new season and making the walk there every Monday for assembly are things I will miss a lot.”

Like so many Gill students, Sam said Ms. Poticny was her favorite teacher. “She would often incorporate stories into teaching to help us better understand what we were learning,” said Sam, who had “Ms. P” twice in Upper School and also knew her in Middle School. “She taught me that school isn’t all about learning the material and getting into college, but enjoying the moment as well.”

With college approaching, Sam said she feels ready for the next adventure.

“GSB has helped me prepare for what lies beyond high school through the rigorous academics and the different things I have been exposed to throughout the years. I have had teachers and coaches urge me to be the best I can be, and it would be a shame if I did not give myself the same motivation.”

Gill has been Paul’s second home since he was in kindergarten.

In fact, he remembers his kindergarten teacher, Sue Rankin, as having had perhaps the greatest influence on him.

“She taught us to be who we are, and to love ourselves for it.” Not a bad way to start what has been a rich and fulfilling academic experience.

Paul’s Italian heritage is part of who he is. Not surprisingly, a unit trip to Italy, in which he studied architecture in Rome and Florence, was a highlight for him. “After learning more about the culture, I definitely appreciate it more,” he said. He also remembers a Disney unit with particular fondness, saying “I learned the inner workings of one of the happiest places on Earth.”

For Paul, Gill has been a pretty happy place as well.

His favorite place on campus is Founders Hall “because it has always been a good break from the day where you can reconnect with your friends.”

Friends, he said, that he has grown up with at Gill.

As he looks to the future, Paul said he is well prepared for whatever awaits him. “I am not afraid of putting myself out there and doing the best I can,” he said, “always.”

She thanked her parents for their help and support.

“I want to thank my parents for giving me the opportunity to attend GSB, because without it, I would not have the friendships, personality, or work ethic I have today,” she said.

Paul is grateful to his parents for giving him the opportunity to attend “an amazing school like GSB” and to the friends and faculty who have been a part of his Gill experience. “They have become a second family to me,” he said.

Varsity Soccer: Captain Varsity Softball Admission Ambassador Fishing Club The Fourth Estate Peer Leader Reading Buddies Upper School Editor for Lower School Newspaper

Varsity Cross Country Varsity Track and Field Joe Show Model UN Mr. GSB Peer Leader Relay For Life Ski Club The Voice

Baylor University

“The faculty and staff at Gill have really helped me grow as a student, and the core values and community have shaped the individual I am today.”

Like a number of his classmates, Josh mentioned Ms. Poticny as having had the greatest impact on his personal and academic development. “Ms. P was my teacher when I was in Middle School and through my first three years of Upper School, as well as for two international unit trips. She has really helped me develop as a student and an individual,” he said.

A unit trip to Ireland was a highlight for Josh. “The trip had a powerful influence on me,” he said. “I learned about my heritage, and it gave me a new perspective about the country’s culture.” Josh also visited the Netherlands on another unit trip.

“Through the curriculum and faculty, Gill St. Bernard’s has prepared me as a student for what lies beyond high school and has taught me to challenge myself, both academically and outside of the classroom,” Josh said.

After he leaves Gill, Josh said he will most miss “the strong feeling of community and the friendships I have made during my high school career.” He will especially miss the library, he said, as a place where he studied, but also spent hours socializing with friends.

“If I could say one thing to my parents, it would be thank you for giving me the opportunity to attend such a special school, as well as supporting me throughout my experience at Gill,” he said.

JV & Varsity Lacrosse The Fourth Estate Robotics Club Bucknell University

Quinnipiac University

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Amanda Leonhard 15 years

Jackie Luberto 12 years

Morgan Margolis 12 years

When she was in seventh grade, long before she realized she wanted to become a doctor, Amanda Leonhard struggled with math. Fortunately, Mr. Orr was her math teacher. “He would jump through hoops to ensure that I completely understood the material, even if that meant finding 100 different ways to explain something until it made sense to me,” she said.

One of Jackie Luberto’s earliest memories of Gill is watching a student production of The Secret Garden when she was in Lower School. “When I saw the musical, I realized my school was capable of amazing things,” she said.

It’s pretty easy to get the impression that Gill “Lifers” are cheerleaders for their alma mater, but Morgan Margolis is the real thing.

For Amanda, Mr. Orr was just one of many great teachers who influenced the course of her life.

“In eighth grade, I was beginning to see that science is my passion, and Mrs. Brescher helped foster that interest by reciprocating the excitement.”

She has a special fondness for her guidance counselor, Mr. Lee. “I would always enter his office stressed and worried about some little detail, but somehow every time I would leave completely reassured and with a plan. He has given me endless support and encouragement with my dream of becoming a doctor.”

That dream really took shape during Amanda’s sophomore year. “When I saw that a medical unit was being offered, I knew that I was looking at a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” she said.

In the unit, Amanda was able to shadow medical students, receive advice first-hand from doctors, go inside an operating room and even earn CPR certification at the healthcare provider level.

Today, Amanda volunteers weekly at Morristown Medical Center, where she transports patients, lab specimens and equipment. She is also responsible for training other volunteers. She also runs her own dog-sitting business!

Amanda is very grateful for the great start in life that Gill provided, and thanks her parents for “selflessly putting me and my brother through 15 years of GSB.” Varsity Cross Country Varsity Indoor Track Varsity Track & Field Admission Ambassador F.L.A. “For the Love of Animals” H.O.P.E Leaders for Gender Equality Multicultural Club Peer Leader Quill and Scroll Honor Society Relay for Life The Voice Hamilton College - NY

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In the fall, Jackie will begin her college career at Fordham. Poised and confident, she credits Gill with helping her to become the person she is and the person she hopes to become.

“I first came to Gill in 2004, and I was unbelievably shy,” Jackie recalled. “Twelve years later, GSB has molded me from student to citizen. I’m a lot more confident now than ever before, and I can thank my school for that.”

Fencing played an important role in Jackie’s life at Gill. “My fencing coach, Elyse Gurnowski, always believed in me—to fence well, but also to lead a team,” said Jackie, who as captain paced the team to a Prep B silver medal in 2015. “Elyse never lost faith in me, from my freshman year, when the only athletic thing I knew how to do was walk, to my senior year, when I took on track and cross country.”

Although Jackie has taken part in summer academic programs in the UK, Paris and Barcelona, Gill is the place she calls home. “I grew up at Gill,” she said. “Gill has always been a home for me. It’s warm and welcoming, and I spend every day with people I love.”

As she reflects on her years at Gill, she thanks her parents for their support.

“I’d say I’m the luckiest kid in the world. My dad used to drive me to school and back every day. My parents were there for each game, ceremony and just any celebration,” she said. “There isn’t enough thanks that I can give my family.”

Varsity Cross Country Varsity Fencing: Captain Varsity Track and Field The Fourth Estate H.O.P.E Quill and Scroll Honor Society Relay for Life The Unknown Muse Fordham University

“Brueckner Hall has become my favorite location on campus because it is where I discovered my passion for cheerleading,” she said. “I was apprehensive at first to try a sport I knew very little about, but my coach and teammates made high school cheerleading an incredible experience.”

Morgan said of all her teachers Ms. Poticny has had the greatest influence on her. “I first had Ms. Poticny in eighth grade for English and was lucky enough to have her again in my sophomore year. I can talk to her about any issues I am having in school or outside of school. She has personally worked with me when I didn’t understand something and created fun ways of helping me learn it.”

As a graduate, Morgan said she will always remember the people who have been like a family to her. “What I will miss most are the friendships I have created over all of these years. The love and acceptance from my classmates have helped me strive in my learning environment and also helped me to become the person I am today.”

Leaving for college, Morgan said GSB has prepared her academically and morally for life. “Not only do I feel well prepared to take on the work I will be presented with in college, but I also feel like I have learned moral lessons many do not receive from their high school,” she said.

For her parents, Morgan had nothing but gratitude.

“Throughout my years at Gill all they have done is help me in my schooling and my dreams and pursuits,” she said. “I don’t know where I would be without their continuous support.”

Varsity Cheerleading: Captain Varsity Cross Country Varsity Indoor Track Admission Ambassador Blue Crew Bridges Gender Equality Club Model UN Multicultural Club Peer Leader Relay for Life Ski and Snowboarding Club Young Women’s Club The George Washington University

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Caty Matthews 15 years

Kaitlyn Moriarty 13 years

Carolyn Najarian 15 years

Caty Matthews said getting thrown out of the library for eating was practically a rite of passage at Gill. She remembers once sitting on a box of doughnuts to keep them from being confiscated.

Even so, the library was her favorite spot on campus, the place where she felt the most comfortable “even when being told to take her feet off the coffee table.”

Kaitlyn Moriarty’s resume reads like a list of local philanthropic organizations. Her involvement includes Project Linus, Anderson House, Hope’s Promise, the Schiff Nature Preserve, Brady Life Camp, and Habitat for Humanity—and the list goes on and on.

For Carolyn Najarian, some of her most memorable moments at Gill St. Bernard’s came on the tennis court. For the past two years, she co-captained varsity girls’ tennis, helping her team to multiple division championships.

Caty, who started at GSB when she was three, recalled that sometimes the small lessons had the greatest impact on her.

“One of the things I love about Gill is that you hold the door for anyone behind you,” she said. “Gill has taught me a sense of right and wrong, and how to maneuver in the world as a decent human being.”

As for how she has changed during her years at GSB, Caty said, “I’ve gotten taller, but not by much. I’m a little smarter too.”

She credits her favorite teacher, Dr. Lutz, with helping her achieve the latter.

“Dr. Lutz had the patience and enthusiasm to help me find my voice amid the myriad centuries and places I’ve written about,” she said. He has highlighted the good, constructively criticized the bad and offered the most helpful advice when I’m staring at a blank page and thinking, ‘what the hell do I write next?’”

And she is thankful to her parents for giving her the opportunity. “They picked Gill,” she said. “Good choice, Mom and Dad.” Caty faces the future with confidence and enthusiasm. “I’m a pretty decent writer now, so my dreams of being next-door neighbors with JK Rowling look a little less ridiculous,” she said. “The goals I’ve set for myself are entirely flexible, though a New York Times bestseller would be nice.”

JV & Varsity Lacrosse: Captain Creative Writing Book Prize Gillharmonics/Chamber Choir GSB Players: Actor in Godspell, Once Upon a Mattress, Murder on the Nile and The Boy Friend Knightingales/Women’s Ensemble Knight Voices/Concert Choir Quill and Scroll Society Relay for Life The Unknown Muse: Editor Writing Center tutor Tulane University

And those are just her off-campus efforts. At Gill, she has volunteered for H.O.P.E., Reading Buddies, Relay for Life and Blessings in a Backpack, to name a few.

“My freshman year I participated in the community service unit,” Kaitlyn recalled. “I found out that I have a passion for helping others. It encouraged me to find areas where I could help, leading me to some of the best experiences of my life.”

Her passion for lending a hand grew out of the strong sense of community fostered at Gill. “I was able to create friendships here with people I will know forever, and it is because of them and this great community that Gill will always be in my heart,” she said.

Kaitlyn said she grew up at Gill. “After spending practically my whole life at GSB, I can really say that Gill has changed me. I have become a more thoughtful and prepared person and student. I will never be able to thank the school fully for the unique and incredible experiences that shaped me into the individual I am today.”

She said Ms. Poticny had a special influence on her during her time at Gill, “She has had the greatest impact on my student career. She was my Upper School advisor, and she has helped guide me through critical decisions.”

She thanked her parents for the opportunities they made available to her. And she acknowledged that saying goodbye to her alma mater will be bittersweet. “I will miss the close community,” she said.

“Gill has made me feel at home.”

JV Soccer Varsity Softball: Captain Admission Ambassador Blessings in a Backpack H.O.P.E. Leaders for Gender Equality Reading Buddies Relay for Life Senior Gift Committee Upper School Choir Southern Methodist University

But her favorite place on campus is the Chapel.

“I’ve been singing in it for years and I love hearing the beautiful acoustics during choir,” she said.

As a “Lifer,” Carolyn has literally grown up at Gill St. Bernard’s.

“When I think about the students at Gill, I think of them more as my siblings, not classmates. We will always be a family.”

“I’ve grown so much from being a student at Gill,” she added. “I’ve also learned what it means to be a true team player. Gill has made me dedicated, hard-working and responsible, both in my athletic and academic careers.”

Carolyn, who will attend Trinity College in the fall, says she is excited about the future. “The rigorous academic courses I’ve taken at Gill have prepared me for what lies beyond high school. I’ve learned that anything is possible and achievable if you set goals for yourself.”

At Trinity, she plans to major in sociology and minor in human rights.

Carolyn credits all her teachers with helping to prepare her for college, but one teacher in particular stands out for her. “Ms. Dori has always pushed me to do my best and made me realize and appreciate the importance of learning,” Carolyn said. “She is always here for me and constantly helps me reach my goals. I know I can talk to her about anything.”

And she thanked her parents. “I’m so blessed to have such caring parents that support me with everything I do. Thank you Mom and Dad for giving me the opportunity to learn at GSB.” Varsity Tennis: Co-captain Admission Ambassador Global Aware Program, Cuzco, Peru GSB Ensembles Hearts for Honduras: Co-president H.O.P.E. Model UN Multicultural Club Peer Leader Relay for Life Social Committee Young Women Club: Founder Trinity College

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Greg Niccolai 12 years

Sebastian Pampalone 13 years

Zoe Quan-Shau 14 years

When asked if he considers Gill St. Bernard’s as his second home, Greg Niccolai answered thoughtfully, “I’ve been here so long, had so many meals—this is my main home.”

Sebastian Pampalone recalled a technology unit to California as a highlight of his years at Gill St. Bernard’s. “The San Francisco unit exerted a powerful influence on me,” he said. “Visiting tech companies like Yelp and Pandora expanded my knowledge of the technology industry, while also inspiring me to possibly pursue a future career in this field.”

Zoe Quan-Shau said her favorite place on Gill’s campus is the garden. “When I first walk in, it’s as though I’ve entered a completely different world,” she said. “Even just looking at it, it takes my mind off all of the schoolwork I have and allows me to appreciate the smaller things in life.”

Greg has been active in sports at Gill and his favorite place on campus is the track. “It’s relaxing, and I can enjoy the rest of the day with my teammates after a day at school,” he said.

Spending time with his friends is what Greg said he will miss most about Gill. “Being able to sit in the café with my friends and talk about things— that is what I will really miss,” he said.

Greg said his time at Gill has made him more social-minded and eager to learn. “I have branched out more, and broadened my horizons,” he said. He cited Mr. Bostian as the teacher who has had the greatest impact on him. “He taught me so much about myself and about life.”

He thanked his parents, too, for their part in supporting him throughout his life.

Now he is ready to move on: “My time at Gill has prepared me, and I am now ready to take on all tasks,” he said. “‘The world is my classroom’ is definitely something I will take with me for the rest of my life because there is so much to learn in this world.”

Varsity Cross Country Varsity Indoor Track and Field Varsity Track and Field Habitat for Humanity Mountain Biking Club NJSIAA Scholar Athlete Fairfield University

Reflecting on the only school he has ever known, “inspiring” was the word he used to describe the teachers he has known at Gill.

“GSB has helped me identify who I am as a person and has taught me the benefits of hard work. I feel more than ready to tackle the obstacles I may encounter in college and beyond,” he said.

One teacher in particular stands out for him, Math Department Chair Ed Brown. “Mr. Brown has helped me enjoy math by simplifying even the most complex of calculus topics and integrating relevant discussions into AP Calculus BC,” he said.

As he prepares to leave Gill, Sebastian said he will always hold fond memories of Stone Soup Day in Lower School, the trip to Washington D.C. in Middle School or just hanging out with friends in the Library.

“Gill has given me friends I will keep in touch with for life and has helped me gain new perspectives on the world,” he said. “I will miss the tight-knit community at GSB the most and the great sense of school spirit.”

To his parents he said, “Thanks for always supporting me and putting up with me for the past 18 years.”

Varsity Cross Country JV/Varsity Tennis Academic League Bridges Outreach The Fourth Estate Model UN National Latin Honors Society Quill and Scroll Society University of Southern California

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While Zoe said she has grown as a person and has gained a greater understanding of the world, she adds, “I feel as though I am leaving as the same person in terms of personality and character. That’s one of the things about Gill that I like— there was not one moment when I felt I had to change who I was.”

Of all the teachers she had, Zoe cited Mrs. Ripton as the teacher who had the greatest impact on her.

“She gave me a wake-up call as to what the world is really like and made me realize that it’s not going to be all rainbows and unicorns,” Zoe said. “She helped me understand that there are going to be difficult people out there, but no matter what, I have to stay true to who I am as a person.”

She cites unit trips to Belgium and the Netherlands during her junior year as particularly memorable experiences that helped open her eyes to the world outside of Gill.

As she prepares to take the next step, Zoe is grateful to Gill for the many life lessons. “Especially in high school, Gill taught me how to be believe in myself and fight for what I believe in,” she said.

And she is grateful to her parents: “Thank you both for teaching me that education is the most important thing and the one thing that no one can ever take away from me.”

Varsity Cross Country Varsity Fencing Varsity Indoor Track Varsity Track and Field Admission Ambassadors The Fourth Estate H.O.P.E. Relay for Life University of Vermont

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James Raia 15 years

Kara Saladino 15 years

Allie Udoff 15 years

James Raia can’t talk about his years at Gill St. Bernard’s without mentioning baseball. A varsity infielder all four years in high school and a team captain his senior year, James helped lead the Knights to a Prep B Championship in 2015.

For 15 years, the Gill community has shaped Kara Saladino into the person she is today. “As I have grown in this community, I have learned what it means to be a caring, kind-hearted individual,” she said. “I know I will carry this throughout my life.”

Yet, when asked about his most important influence at Gill, he looked not toward the baseball diamond, but to the classroom and his Middle School English teacher, Ms. Poticny.

Among her many amazing experiences at Gill, Kara said, was a unit trip to Florence and Rome. “Not only did I learn about another culture and the art and history that went into shaping and building these amazing places, but I became closer to my friends and to students in other grades that I had never really had the chance to bond with before,” she said.

When asked what she will miss about Gill, Allie Udoff says she will miss “that feeling I get when I walk around campus surrounded by my wonderful memories.” She adds, “I realize how fortunate I am to have been part of such a special place for so long.”

“I have been fortunate to have had several wonderful teachers, but Ms. Poticny has had the greatest impact on my life at GSB,” James said. “She has been my teacher, advisor, confidant, counselor, friend and second mother to me for my last five years at Gill. She has taught me lessons that I will carry with me for a lifetime. Ms. Poticny is the teacher that every student prays to cross paths with. I am beyond fortunate to have had my life intersect with her life.”

James said he grew up physically and emotionally at Gill. “Over the past 15 years, GSB has taught me how to sing the ABCs, read a book, write my name, interact socially and debate social issues, as well as teaching me how to break out of my comfort zone academically,” he said.

Reflecting on his “home away from home,” James said he will miss his friends the most. “Over the course of many years in a small community, friends become more like family, and they will be very much missed as I leave for college.”

He thanked his parents for their support. “Without them I would never have been able to accomplish what I have,” he said. “Just to be given the opportunity to be educated like this is such an overwhelming start to my life.”

Varsity Baseball: Captain Admission Ambassador Model UN Relay for Life Fairfield University

Kara said her French teacher, Mrs. Grabowski, has had the greatest impact on her. “Mrs. Grabowski has taught me from seventh grade through Upper School. I have grown up with Mrs. Grabowski, and she in turn has watched me progress through my years at GSB, always offering advice and a helpful ear during times of trouble.”

As she looks to college, Kara said she feels Gill has prepared her well. “The course-load and course options at GSB are rigorous,” she said. “My love for learning has grown immensely, and the amazing community has allowed me to become more comfortable taking chances and believing in myself, making me the confident person that I am today.”

Asked what she will miss most, Kara said she will miss it all. “My teachers, my incredible friends, the amazing campus, the accepting and loving community, the food, the unit program, the clubs… the list goes on and on,” she said. “And I will surely miss the blossom tree between Cox and Conover that I admire every spring.”

Her message to her parents was short and sweet: “Thank you so much! You guys rock!”

Admission Ambassador Bridges French Honors Society Gender Equality Club H.O.P.E Peer Leader Reading Buddies Relay for Life Social/Prom Committee

Allie expressed similar gratitude toward her favorite teachers: Ms. Poticny and advisor Ms. McCall-Sulton. “In 20 years, I may not recall the exact words that these teachers said, but I will never forget the way they made me feel: capable in my abilities and confident to tackle the next challenge.”

As a student, Allie “has tried to embrace and live by the principles that GSB is based on—respect, integrity, honesty and civic duty.” She reflected, “I have been fortunate to have had wonderful examples in friends and teachers, and I am hopeful that I will find more examples along the next part of my journey.”

Two unit trips—Ireland and Peru—were highlights of her Upper School career. “Ireland was not only beautiful and awe-inspiring, but it allowed me to get a glimpse of where many of my relatives lived,” she said. “And Peru was amazing. We were able to spend time with wonderful students, paint rooms in their house and visit Machu Picchu!”

“Gill is where I grew up and grew into myself,” Allie said. “I think all of my experiences at Gill have contributed to my being the person that I am today.”

Allie thanked her parents for their unconditional love and support and for making her education a priority. She values the “solid foundation” that Gill provided and knows she will miss “the warm feeling, positive attitude, the great advice and wisdom,” but she hopes now to be able to pass those along to others.

Varsity Fencing Varsity Tennis Environmental Club: Co-founder Excalibur Gill for Diversity H.O.P.E. Emory University

Colgate University

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Lillie Wilson 14 years

Ludi Zhu 15 years

Mycroft Zimmerman 15 years

As she prepares for college next fall, Lillie Wilson acknowledges that GSB has claimed her heart. She recalled a Middle School spring concert when, “the eighth-graders were standing on the risers holding candles, singing the final song of the night.” She said, “I remember thinking to myself how much I loved this place and how I never wanted to leave.”

While many “Lifers” think of Gill St. Bernard’s as their second home, Ludi Zhu has a slightly different take, saying the school has taught her that the world truly is her classroom.

One of Mycroft Zimmerman’s earliest memories of Gill St. Bernard’s was Stone Soup Day, when the entire school came together. That sense of community had the greatest influence on him over the years.

“We’re all completely different people in background, with unique interests and goals, and Gill has given us the opportunity to see the best in each other,” Ludi said. “From the classes I’ve taken to the people I have spent time with, Gill has reminded me time and again that there’s never only one way.”

“I was raised by the Gill community,” he said. “The faculty and staff at Gill have really helped me grow as a student, and the core values and community have shaped the individual I am today.”

Although she will miss Gill, Lillie said she is ready for what comes next. “GSB has given me the skills I need to succeed: whether it’s how to make a soda rocket in freshman physics, or how to find X in just about every math class you can take.”

And something more. “The teachers and faculty have taught me how to treat other people with respect, and that it’s OK to ask for help,” she said. “GSB has taught me about life not only in textbooks, but outside of them as well. By teaching and practicing honesty, respect, integrity, and loyalty, I feel that I am ready for the outside world and what it has to offer.”

Lillie said she will always be indebted to her cross-country coach, David deWolfe, who was her algebra teacher before convincing her to try out for the team. “He is so passionate about his runners and the work they put into every practice. He has pushed me to my limits just to show me what I am capable of. He never lets his athletes accept failure and always helps them to do their best.”

She also had words of gratitude for her parents.

“You have stuck by me through everything and never failed to make sure I knew I was loved.

Sending me to Gill is one of the greatest gifts you could ever have given me, and for that I am eternally grateful.”

Varsity Cross Country Varsity Indoor Track & Field Varsity Track & Field Admission Ambassador Honor Board H.O.P.E. Multi-Cultural Club Peer Leader Relay for Life Young Women’s Club Elon University

Ludi said her favorite place at Gill is Ms. Isusi’s art studio. “The smell of turpentine, cabinets full of canvases and charcoals, any art supply imaginable… I usually have two or three projects going on at once, and I love to have a chance to get creative,” something she said was a gift on particularly stressful days.

Ludi’s favorite teacher at Gill was Mr. Bostian, who taught her as a freshman and as a senior. “He said everything that I didn’t want to hear, because I was scared to believe in it,” she said. “He made me a stronger, more hardworking student by allowing me to face reality.”

What she will miss most, she said, are the people with whom she has shared her life to date.

“I feel comfortable here because students and faculty are honest with who they are,” she said. “I will miss the small campus—the close-knit community, the friendly people who go out of their way to get to know you. I will miss familiar faces and knowing almost everyone at the school. I will miss the integrity and kindness.”

To her parents, she said simply, “Thank you for helping me understand what my experience at this school really means to me.”

Varsity Cross Country Varsity Indoor Track and Field Varsity Track and Field Admission Ambassador The Fourth Estate: Editor in Chief Latin Honors Society National Merit Commended Scholar Peer Leader Quill and Scroll The Unknown Muse University of California, Los Angeles

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If Gill St. Bernard’s has been like a second home to Mycroft, a home within that home has been the stage. He has participated in theatrical productions throughout Upper School, including leading roles in his sophomore and junior years. A trained pianist, Mycroft was also a voice student and member of the Men’s Ensemble, Mixed Ensemble and Concert Choir.

Beyond the stage, Mycroft was a member of the varsity fencing team, has worked as a writer and editor for the school newspaper, and contributed to the literary magazine. He served as co-director of H.O.P.E., chaired the fall and spring blood drives at Gill and is founder and chairman of the school can drive.

Mycroft cited unit trips to Ireland and the Netherlands as highlights of his time at Gill. “I learned about my heritage, and it gave me a new perspective about the culture of the country,” he said.

His favorite teacher at Gill was Ms. Poticny. “Ms. P was my teacher when I was in Middle School and through my first three years of Upper School, as well as for two international unit trips. She really helped me develop as a student and an individual.”

“If I could say one thing to my parents, it would be, ‘Thank you for giving me the opportunity to attend such a special school and for supporting me throughout my experience at Gill.’”

Varsity Fencing GSB Players: Actor – Godspell, The Boy Friend, The Learned Ladies, Little Women, Murder on the Nile, Once Upon a Mattress, Plaza Suite, and The Servant of Two Masters Blood Drive: Chair Can Drive: Founder and Chair Concert Choir: Men’s Ensemble, Mixed Ensemble and Chamber Choir The Fourth Estate H.O.P.E.: Co-director Student Government The Unknown Muse Duke University

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Milestones

Middle School Closing

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• EXCELLENCE • ACHIEVEMENT • 2016

Eighth Grade Students Achieve Excellence

At the Middle School Closing Exercises, three members of the eighthgrade class shared reflections on their time in the Middle School and their hopes for the future as they prepare to begin their Upper School careers.

Andrew Lutz It honestly feels like it was yesterday when we walked in the door for our first day of fifth grade. I have been thinking a lot about what advice I would give my fifth grade self. It’s a pretty difficult question because there is so much I could say. The main piece of advice is to just be who you are. Find something that you love to do and that makes you happy; simply, discover your passion.

Now, as we go from the top of Middle School to the bottom of Upper School, we wonder about the same things we did in fifth grade. Going forward, remember what you learned during your time in Middle School to help guide you on your high school journey.

Grace Hamerschlag As Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “Life is a journey, not a destination.” Throughout life there will be many hardships and mistakes along the pathways we take, but these mistakes don’t define us. What will define us is how we come out from our hardships and even our successes; how we soar above them and with them. We are defined by how we each uniquely and individually put together all of the lessons we have learned and combine them into a beautiful symphony of understanding and values. It is about what each and every one of us has to offer to help reshape society into something better.

Let’s celebrate together and build a better world.

Middle School Honors and Prizes Boys’ Athletic Award: Awarded annually to the eighth grade male who, in the opinion of his coaches, best represents the qualities of determination, leadership, cooperation, and sportsmanship. Nicholas DeMarco and William Soucie Girls’ Athletic Award: Awarded annually to the eighth grade female who, in the opinion of her coaches, best represents the qualities of determination, leadership, cooperation, and sportsmanship. Emily Raia Francis Winston Award: This award is presented to that eighth grade student who, in the opinion of faculty members, has shown significant personal growth throughout Middle School. Eleanor Gustafson Marjorie Hibbler Memorial Award: This award is presented to the eighth grade student who consistently demonstrated the greatest passion for and devotion to independent reading. Kerry Colford Frank Mazzocchi Award: In memory of St. Bernard’s School alumnus Frank Mazzocchi ’66, this silver bowl is given annually to that male student who best exemplifies a friendly manner, and willingness and devotion toward the school. Luke Mariak Martha Gray Tray: Named in honor of one of Gill St. Bernard’s most distinguished educators, this award annually recognizes that female eighth grader who has consistently demonstrated loyalty, integrity and sincerity during her tenure in the Middle School.

Julia Hersh Scholastic Honors Award: Presented to that student who maintains the highest cumulative grade-point average among his or her classmates throughout the academic year.

Luke Mariak (Grade 8), Jessica Lin (Grade 7) Citizenship Award (Grade 8): The most prestigious prize a Middle School student can obtain, the Citizenship Award is granted to that individual who best upholds The Gill School’s motto: faith, honor, consideration.

Logan Stetz and Teresa Zimmer Citizenship Award (Grades 5-7): Matthew Cooper (Grade 7), Madeleine Soultanian (Grade 6), Alia Messina (Grade 5) Character Club Award: This award is presented to an eighth grade student who displays honor, respect and integrity each and every day. Adrian Massuet and Lloyd Wright

Congratulations to the Middle School students for a great year, and best of luck to my classmates as we prepare for the journey ahead.

Edward McCarthy I have been at Gill all my life and this school has taught me so much. I want to come to school every day—although not always on Monday mornings—to learn, have fun and become a better person. The overall message from all of our teachers seems to be don’t give up! Keep working on it and you’ll get it. And when we grow up and get a job of some kind, there are going to be situations where we will be asked to take the lead and solve problems; GSB is preparing us to be ready for this reality. Thank you Middle School teachers for encouraging me to open my mind to the many possibilities in life.

I’ll never forget the things I learned, and I know that we will all grow up to be better citizens because of our time here. Thank you.

Top row, from left: Head of School Sid Rowell poses with the winners of the eighth grade citizenship award Logan Stetz ’20 and Theresa Zimmer ’20 and one of last year’s recipients Parker DeMaira ’20; (l. to r.) Tamia Chaney ’20, Rebecca Michaels ’20 and Anoushka Thakur ’20 Bottom row, from left: 18 (l. to r.) Kerry Colford ’20, Emily Raia ’20, Julia Hersh ’20, Ellie Gustafson ’20 and Lila McNamara ’20.

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Lower School Closing

Milestones

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• EXCELLENCE • ACHIEVEMENT • 2016

Class of 2024 Looks to the Future As part of the Lower School Closing Ceremony this June, the younger children made wishes on behalf of the fourth graders.

May these good wishes accompany our 30 fourth graders as they make the transition to Middle School next fall.

We hope you learn a lot in class.

We hope you get to play on the playground.

We hope you meet a lot of new friends.

We hope you read lots of good books in school.

We hope you have fun in school.

We hope you don’t have too much homework.

We hope you play fun games in gym class.

We hope you get an extra recess.

We hope you get good grades.

We hope you have good assemblies.

We hope you won’t be scared to start Middle School.

We hope you love Middle School.

We wish you good friends.

We wish you a lot of snow days.

We wish you lots of field trips.

We wish you nice teachers.

We hope you have good food to eat in the cafeteria.

Lower School Citizenship Award Each year at Lower School Closing, Head of School Sid Rowell awards the Amol Ajinkya Citizenship Award. This is the highest honor that Gill confers on a Lower School student and the only honor presented at the end-of-year ceremony. Reflecting the school’s strong sense of community, the award recognizes thoughtfulness, sensitivity and generosity of spirit.

The recipient is chosen each year by the Lower School teachers. Congratulations to fourth-grader Whitney Lapper on receiving this year’s Amol Ajinkya Citizenship Award.

Top: Procession at closing ceremony; Middle row, from left: Whitney Lapper ’24 receives the Amol Ajinkya Citizenship Award; Members of the fourth grade Black Belt Recorder Ensemble perform during the ceremony; Bottom row: Zoe Calamani ’24 poses with her family; Flag bearers Isabel Barsanti ’24 and Luke Risser ’24; Bradley Matthews ’24 poses with his parents and sister Catarina Matthews ’16.

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Best wishes, Class of 2016 Andrews University Barnard College Baylor University Boston College (4) Boston University Bucknell University (3) Caldwell University Carnegie Mellon University Colgate University (2) College of William and Mary Cornell University (3) Dickinson College Drew University Drexel University Duke University Elon University Emory University (3) Fairfield University (6) Fordham University Franklin and Marshall College Hamilton College - NY (cont. on next page)

Top row: Students matriculating to colleges and universities in New York State.

Middle row: Students matriculating to colleges and universities in the Gulf Coast region.

Bottom row: Students attending colleges and universities in the Midwest and on the West Coast.

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Best wishes, Class of 2016 Haverford College (2) High Point University Hofstra University James Madison University Lehigh University (3) Loyola University Maryland (3) Middlebury College New York University (2) Norwich University Pennsylvania State University (2) Providence College Princeton University Quinnipiac University Rowan University Rutgers University-New Brunswick Saint Louis University Smith College Southern Methodist University (2) St. Lawrence University (2) Syracuse University (2) Texas Christian University (cont. on next page)

Top row: Students matriculating to colleges and universities in southern New England.

Middle row: Students attending colleges and universities in New Jersey.

Bottom row: Students attending colleges in the southeastern region of the country.

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Best wishes, Class of 2016 The College of Saint Rose The George Washington University (4) The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Trinity College Tufts University Tulane University (2) University of California, Davis University of California, Los Angeles University of Houston University of Maryland, College Park University of Rochester University of South Carolina University of Southern California University of Vermont University of Virginia University of Washington Vassar College Villanova University Wake Forest University Washington University in St. Louis (3) Williams College

Top row: Students attending northern New England colleges and universities.

Middle row: Students attending colleges and universities in the state of Pennsylvania.

Bottom row: Students matriculating to colleges and universities in the mid-Atlantic region.

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Congratulations, once again, to all members of the Class of 2016.

Your talents and successes have truly enriched the school.