Doorways Summer 2025

DOORWAYS

Where Excellence Grows

IN LOVING MEMORY OF SUSANNA A. JONES

As this issue was going to print, we received news of the untimely passing of SUSANNA A. JONES, Head of School from 2007 to 2023.

We will honor her memory and legacy in the upcoming issue of Doorways.

Holton-Arms

Holton-Arms' Revolutionary Learning Commons

The grand opening of the Susanna A. Jones Learning Commons at Holton-Arms marks a milestone in the school’s evolution.

Holton-Arms Amphitheater Dedicated to Honor ANNE DAVIS CAMALIER ’47 ’49C

A tribute to an esteemed alumna whose enduring legacy bridges generations at Holton-Arms.

and Landon School Strengthen

Their Collaborative Bond

Holton-Arms and Landon unite generations of students through enduring partnerships rooted in tradition, creativity, and mutual respect.

The Women & Power for Good Summit at Holton-Arms

Events like the Women & Power for Good Summit exemplify Holton-Arms School’s unwavering commitment to its vision: inspiring young women to lead lives of positive influence.

Holton-Arms turns 124, Trustee Visit

artificial intelligence, and ZAHRA R.’s ’26 trip to Taiwan

NAOMI W.

CAROLINE B.

O.

FROM THE HEAD'S DESK

N.

Where Minds Meet and Spirits Soar

DEAR HOLTON COMMUNITY,

As I reflect on this past academic year, I am inspired by the people, places, and programs that make Holton-Arms more than just a school. We are a vibrant community living out our mission: to cultivate the unique potential of young women through the “education not only of the mind, but of the soul and spirit." This issue of Doorways offers a glimpse into how our mission is lived today.

This year celebrated two transformative additions to our campus: the Susanna A. Jones Learning Commons, which has quickly become a dynamic hub where collaboration and curiosity thrive, and the Anne Davis Camalier Amphitheater, which honors Holton’s enduring commitment to intergenerational connection through joyful gatherings. These are more than just physical structures, they represent the spirit of our learning community.

We recognized our beloved and talented faculty and staff, some of whom celebrated milestone years, and extended heartfelt thanks to those who retired. We were honored to witness Brooke Seawell’s (Landon ’65) touching tribute to his wife ROSEMARY WARNER SEAWELL ’65, who was posthumously honored with “The Rosie” Award. And we celebrated GAIL FRAWLEY ’75 who received the Distinguished Alumna Award.

We were inspired by the wisdom of DR. R. BARBARA GITENSTEIN ’66, our 2025 Commencement speaker and a former trustee, whose life of ethical leadership and vision reflects the values we hold dear. We also proudly honored YOLANDA KEENER, recipient of the 2025 Open Door Award.

At our 123rd Commencement, we watched 90 remarkable young women cross the stage, ready to embrace their next chapters. The Class of 2025 has already

demonstrated leadership, benevolence, and moral courage. I cannot wait to see how they shape the world, finding and making way as our newest alumnae.

You will read about the purpose-driven programming that enriches student life and learning, including Make Your Way Day, the Young Alumnae Panel, and the Women and Power for Good Summit.

We’re pleased to highlight dedicated educators like Upper School art teacher BEN FERRY, varsity field hockey coach CAMI ROTH, and our exceptional college counseling team. You’ll get a glimpse of a sampling of the programs that challenged and inspired our students.

Our continued collaborations with Landon School added dimension to student life, modeling the strength of intentional coeducational partnerships. In all these moments, Holton’s Open Door stands as a powerful symbol of growth, interdependence, and exploration— a portal to possibility.

At the heart of everything we do is you, our alumnae, families, faculty, staff, and friends. Your belief in our mission and investment in our future sustains and strengthens our dear Holton. Together, we are advancing Holton’s commitment to leadership, service, and purpose.

As we begin preparing for Holton’s 125th anniversary in 2026, I hope you’ll take part in celebrating the legacy we share and envisioning the future.

With great appreciation and pride for each and every member of our Panther Claw, I thank you.

PENNY B. EVINS Head of School

’30,

’26, NELLIE

’30, WINNIE

’30, Head of School PENNY B. EVINS, DOROTHY A. ’28, PHOEBE C. ’25, CLAIRE H. ’30, OLIVIA L. ’30, and DASHA H. ’28.

TRUSTEE VISIT DAYS

Holton’s Mission in Action

Trustee Visit Days offer a vital opportunity for reflection, alignment, and strategic insight. As stewards of Holton-Arms’ mission, trustees are charged with setting long-term strategy, ensuring financial sustainability, and safeguarding the School’s future. These campus visits allow trustees to step into the daily life of the school, engaging directly with students, faculty, and staff to gain a deeper, more nuanced understanding of the community they serve. This firsthand perspective informs their decisions and strengthens their commitment to leading with clarity and vision.

The benefit of Trustee Visit Day, according to one trustee, is the chance to experience the energy of the school, talk with students and teachers, and get a feel for what makes Holton so special.

Throughout the day, trustees visit classrooms, attend student presentations, and participate in conversations with faculty and school leaders. These thoughtful exchanges bring to life Holton’s mission, seen clearly in inquiry-based learning, confident risk-taking, and a culture of shared leadership.

This year, trustees joined a variety of classes,

including Grade 6 Math, Grade 4 Science, and Grade 5 History & Stories, sitting alongside students to witness teaching and learning in action. Immersed in the energy and engagement of the classroom, they observed how Holton’s values unfold in moments of discovery, thoughtful questioning, and joyful learning. The day concluded with a reflective debrief, where trustees shared insights and discussed how Holton equips students to thrive in and beyond the classroom.

“I’m struck by how girls can be more truly themselves as learners,” one trustee reflected.

Another trustee and Holton alumna added, “I was only here for two years, and it was fully lifechanging for me. At Holton, it was cool to listen, to take good notes, and to succeed. Learning becomes a part of your identity, an ingrained value.”

Trustee Visit Day also serves as a reminder of the enduring power of the relationships Holton girls build. The sense of community, mutual support, and authentic connection formed here extends well beyond graduation. As the trustees noted, Holton is more than a school, it’s a lifelong sisterhood rooted in shared purpose and possibility.

Head of School Penny B. Evins with some members of the 2024-2025 Board of Trustees.

Class of 2025

"... today is also called Commencement because it signals the start of something new.”

– MIRA W. ’25

A DAY OF CELEBRATION

Traditions & New Beginnings

On Wednesday, May 21, the Holton-Arms community—students, families, faculty, and friends—gathered in celebration of the Class of 2025, honoring what they've accomplished and who they've become. The day, rich with tradition, celebrated an education of the mind, soul, and spirit that defines a Holton journey. As each of the 90 graduates stepped forward, they did so with the confidence of those who have done hard things in the comfort of home and now carry that strength into the world, knowing the doors of Holton will always remain open.

Words of Wisdom

DR. R. BARBARA “BOBBY” GITENSTEIN ’66, esteemed educator and former college president, returned to campus as this year’s Commencement speaker. Reflecting on her own time at Holton and her unwavering belief in Holton graduates, she said, “I thrived at Holton. I assumed leadership roles in the boarding community, flourished in the classroom, and made lifelong friends. Depend on what you learned at Holton, on the friendships you have made here, on your

family, on deeply held values. I am confident that you will find a way or make one for yourself and for the rest of the world.”

Both a charge and a comfort, Dr. Gitenstein’s message was a reminder for each Holton student to connect purposefully and trust in the paths they’ve paved as individuals, role models, and leaders.

Class President's Farewell

Senior Class President MIRA W. delivered a heartfelt address that captured the emotion of the day and the spirit of her classmates.

“There are only a few moments in your life where you will look out and see the most important people to you all in one space. Today is one of those rare days. Today marks the end, as it may be the last time we are all in one place together. However, today is also called Commencement because it signals the start of something new. Take this moment to reflect on your surroundings and appreciate these last four years. Recognize not what you are leaving behind, but instead, what you are taking with you.”

Class of 2025

DR. R. BARBARA GITENSTEIN ’66 served as the Commencement Speaker for the Class of 2025

A trailblazing leader in higher education, Bobby is President Emerita of The College of New Jersey (TCNJ). With over 40 years of experience as a college professor and administrator in public and private institutions, Bobby exemplifies our motto, “I will find a way or make one.” The first woman to serve as president of TCNJ in its 160-year history, she is credited for her commitment to students and their future-focused needs. Her keen focus on combining rigor and relationships, as well as campus development, continues to serve as an exemplary model of strategy and values in action. Before TCNJ, she served as Provost and Executive Vice President at Drake University.

CLASS OF 2025 COLLEGE MATRICULATION

Boston College (3)

Boston University

Bucknell University

Colgate University

Columbia University (2)

Cornell University (2)

Dartmouth College (3)

Duke University

Elon University

Fairfield University

Fordham University

George Washington University

Georgetown University (3)

Hampton University

Macalester College

Marist College

New York University (2)

Northeastern University (2)

Northwestern University

Pitzer College

Princeton University (2)

Purdue University

Rice University

Santa Clara University

Smith College

Southern Methodist University

Spelman College

Syracuse University (2)

Texas Christian University

The Ohio State University

The University of Texas at Austin (2)

Towson University

Tulane University (3)

University of British Columbia - Vancouver

University of Chicago (3)

University of Colorado Boulder

University of Delaware

University of Maryland- College Park

University of Miami

University of Michigan (5)

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

University of Notre Dame

University of Pennsylvania (2)

University of Southern California (4)

University of St Andrews - Scotland (2)

University of Texas - Austin

University of Virginia (Main Campus)

University of Wisconsin (Madison)

Vanderbilt University (3)

Vassar College (2)

Villanova University

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Wake Forest University (3)

Washington University in St. Louis

Wesleyan College

William & Mary

Xavier University

A Reflection & Celebration

Baccalaureate is an intimate, reflective ceremony that honors the graduating class and the journey they’ve taken together. The evening featured the reading of heartfelt senior paragraphs, shared memories, and a beautiful dinner filled with pride and nostalgia, as the Class of 2025 prepared to embark on their next chapter.

Class of 2025

UPPER SCHOOL AWARDS

Holton-Arms proudly celebrated the remarkable achievements of our Upper School students at this year’s Awards Assembly. From academic honors to community leadership recognitions, each award reflected the talent, dedication, and spirit of our students. MARGARET S. ’26 was named the 2025-26 Alumnae Scholar. New alumna and previous Alumnae Scholar JANE ROLLENHAGEN presented Margaret with the award.

VIEW THE FULL LIST OF AWARD RECIPIENTS

Students and Alumnae Unite for Holton’s 124th Birthday

Nearly 300 alumnae and students came together during the week of February 6 to celebrate Holton-Arms’ 124th birthday, raising more than $46,000 for The Holton Fund. The annual Happy Birthday Holton celebration combines Founder’s Day with a special day of giving, creating a powerful tradition that unites generations of the Holton community.

The Class of 2025 led by example, achieving 100% participation in birthday giving, a testament to the strong culture of philanthropy among current students.

Now in its fifth year, this celebration continues to forge meaningful connections between Upper School students and alumnae. Their shared enthusiasm and generosity demonstrate the lasting impact of Holton’s mission to cultivate engaged, community-minded graduates.

With Holton’s 125th birthday on the horizon in 2026, this year’s celebration turned up the excitement and set the stage for an unforgettable year. If this year’s energy is any clue, expect big surprises, unforgettable moments, and an anniversary celebration unlike anything before!

To learn more about ways to give to The Holton Fund: Dawn K. Davis

Director of The Holton Fund

dawn.k.davis@holton-arms.edu 301-365-6079

Thank You Holton Community!

We are overjoyed to share that, thanks to your generosity, we’ve not only met— but exceeded—our ambitious $1.85 million goal for The Holton Fund. As of Monday, June 16, we’ve raised $1.87 million in cash and pledges. This incredible milestone reflects the collective heart and commitment of our entire Holton community.

A BOLD STEP FORWARD

The Susanna A. Jones Learning Commons

The vibrant heart of Holton-Arms School beats stronger with the opening of the Susanna A. Jones Learning Commons, a transformative space named in honor of the school’s longtime former Head of School. Purposefully designed to support interdisciplinary learning, collaboration, and community connection, the Learning Commons embodies Holton’s strategic vision for the “education not just of the mind but of the soul and spirit.”

At the opening ceremony, Head of School PENNY B. EVINS expressed her gratitude: “With great appreciation for Holton’s Board of Trustees, who made way to serve as guardians for our future, we are thrilled to announce the opening of the Susanna A. Jones Learning Commons—a project many years in the making—involving the vision of former leaders, students, educators, volunteers, and donors.”

A New Era of Learning

From flexible collaboration spaces to quiet areas for deep thinking, every corner of the Learning Commons embodies Holton’s mission.

The Warner/Seawell Student Commons fosters community, creativity, and crossgrade connection. The Freeman Family

Café, dedicated to the memory of Virginia Allen Freeman through the Carl M. Freeman Foundation, serves as a vibrant hub for conversation and connection.

Just outside, the Wilsey Outdoor Classroom, a gift from DIANE BUCHANAN WILSEY ’61 in memory of RUTH HALE BUCHANAN ’35, brings learning into nature’s embrace, while the Freeman Terrace and Pollin/Wean Terrace, in honor of Dave Pollin and SUSANNE COLE WEAN ’67, offer additional outdoor spaces for reflection and collaboration.

Inside, the Gathering Space, named in honor of Janice DeMaré, gifted by Trustee Emeriti, anchors the Commons with an intentional focus on belonging and shared purpose. The SALLY COLCLOUGH ALEXANDER ’51 Love of Literature Reading Room invites exploration and

curiosity. A study space named for future graduate ZARA M. ’28 symbolizes the school’s forward-looking ethos, while the book stacks, named by Rob and Rebecca Nichols in honor of MARTHA LAUREN NICHOLS ’25, stand as silent guardians of knowledge.

Philanthropy and Vision

Each classroom represents not only a gift, but a commitment to the future of girls’ education. From the Darcey Family’s tribute to GRACE ’20 and LILY ’23, to the room dedicated to ALEXA S. GOLDMAN ’12, and the classroom gifted by the Marriott Family in honor of Mary Jane Puckett, each space reflects a shared belief in the power of learning environments to shape student experience. Contributions from the Snider and Spiegel families further reinforce this commitment. The classroom honoring the groundbreaking Rev. Dr. Pauli Murray centers Holton’s values of justice, equity, and inclusion, while the Ordan Family’s gift celebrates the Class of 2025.

JESSIE HOLLADAY STERCHI ’99, Chair of the Board of Trustees, summarized the strategic significance of the project: “It is a testament to the power of collaboration and commitment that this transformative space now stands as a beacon for the future of Holton-Arms. Capital projects like these are vital for sustaining our school’s mission and ensuring that we continue to evolve for future generations of Holton women who will continue to lead, innovate, and inspire.”

Purposeful Learning and Leadership

The Susanna A. Jones Learning Commons reflects a future-facing approach to learning where design meets enduring purpose. These dynamic spaces cultivate the skills students need in order to thrive: creativity, curiosity, collaboration, critical thinking, and a sense of belonging.

As Evins noted, “Through gathering, we cultivate, promote, and enhance a sense of belonging. The Learning Commons embodies our prioritization of gathering and elevates our collective pride in being a part of the Holton community.”

From collaborative zones to quiet study nooks, The Commons reflects Holton-Arms’ unwavering commitment to preparing young women not only for academic success, but for lives of meaning, leadership, and global impact. More than a physical space, it is a living symbol of what’s possible when community, mission, and innovation come together.

THE CAMALIER DEDICATION

A Tribute to an Esteemed Alumna Enduring Legacy Bridges Generations

Originally completed in the spring of 1969, the Holton-Arms amphitheater is a beloved gathering space for Commencements, Convocations, and a vibrant array of visual and performing arts events.

The cherished venue was recently the setting for a special celebration: the formal dedication of the Camalier Amphitheater, named in honor of ANNE DAVIS CAMALIER ’47, ’49C.

Described as a visionary and steward of spaces that foster creativity, connection, and community, Mrs. Camalier entered the eighth grade at Holton in the fall of 1942 when the school was located in Washington, D.C., and World War II was sweeping across the globe.

Reflecting on her time at Holton-Arms, Mrs. Camalier said, “I had the pleasure of knowing Mrs. Holton. She addressed us every Monday morning, always stressing, very vividly, what she expected of a Holton student and that we should observe, every minute of every hour, that we were in school studying and learning.”

Mrs. Camalier has paved the way for generations of women in her family, with all three of her daughters, her daughter-in-law, and six granddaughters attending and graduating from Holton. Speaking to an intimate crowd of alumnae, faculty, students, and trustees at the dedication, she quipped that she hopes several of her ten (soon to be twelve) great-granddaughters would also be attending Holton, “and maybe one or two of my seven grandsons will be lucky enough to find a Holton gal.”

During the ceremony, Head of School PENNY B. EVINS unveiled a new commemorative plaque honoring Mrs. Camalier’s enduring legacy: “This dedication celebrates Mrs. Camalier’s extraordinary impact on our School and the generations of lives she’s touched through her leadership, generosity, and unwavering support of Holton’s purpose.”

Evans added, “Mrs. Camalier believes deeply in the power of gathering—to celebrate, to reflect, and to enjoy one another’s company. Like her own, this space–our home away from home–will continue to uplift those ideals for generations to come.”

ANNE ELIZABETH DAVIS CAMALIER ’47, ’49C

Born on April 1, 1930, Anne Elizabeth Davis Camalier grew up on her family’s farm along Old Georgetown Road, just a short distance from what is now the Holton-Arms School campus. She fondly recalls her years at Holton, graduating from the Upper School in 1947 and Holton’s Junior College in 1949. Among her most influential mentors was Mildred Brown, who became President of the School in 1951 following the passing of Mrs. Holton.

Mrs. Camalier’s dedication to Holton has continued throughout her life. She served on the Board of Trustees and now holds the title of Trustee Emerita.

She attributes her strong academic foundation at Holton to shaping her business sense and leadership. As Chairman of her family’s real estate company, Mrs. Camalier remains an active and engaged leader, overseeing all aspects of the business.

Beyond Holton, her philanthropy centers on Catholic charities, healthrelated non-profits, education, and the arts. She is especially proud to be one of the two longest-serving members of the Women’s Board of the American Heart Association, Greater Washington Region.

AI Integration at Holton

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape the educational landscape, Holton-Arms is taking a thoughtful, community-wide approach to exploring its potential. Through a collaborative initiative, Holton's Technology Integration team and Upper School students have developed and implemented a unique professional development model designed to introduce faculty to a curated set of AI tools in a hands-on, contextually relevant way.

Recognizing that meaningful technology integration requires confidence, relevance, and purpose, Directors of Technology Integration Lucia Hassell-Lee and Troy Gordon worked with a group of Upper School students to develop a responsive professional learning experience. Their goal: to offer faculty a practical, exploratory introduction to AI tools that could streamline workflow, inspire new approaches to assignments, and enhance classroom engagement. Students ANGEL S. ’26, GRACE X. ’26, and SOFIA F.S. ’27, identified a set of AI tools, including Google’s Gemini, Magic School, Quizizz, and Brisk, and trained themselves to use them with a “teacher’s mindset.”

“They weren’t just learning those tools for themselves,” said Mr. Gordon. “They were thinking about how to teach them, how to make them useful for a teacher managing a classroom, planning assessments, or developing creative activities.”

“Engaging with the teachers in a different environment has been enlightening,” explained Sofia. “I've gotten to understand a different side to them, thus I can appreciate them better, as both people and teachers. Through the AI Cohort, I feel as though my teachers have seen me grow as a student.”

Building the Tasting Program

The students created a series of interactive modules featuring hands-on exercises and real-world classroom applications. Once finalized, they delivered the first AI Tasting

to the Holton-Arms Program Leadership Team, offering both a demonstration of the tools and an inspiring message that meaningful tech integration begins with open-minded exploration.

“Teachers were learning from the students,” explained Mrs. Hassell-Lee. “That role reversal helped faculty see AI from a student’s perspective, sparking interest in how these tools could be used in their classrooms.”

Scaling Up

Following the overwhelmingly positive response to the pilot Tasting, the students were invited to present to Holton’s World Languages Department. Sessions were customized to reflect subject-specific needs, demonstrating the flexibility and relevance of the AI tools across divisions and disciplines.

Soon after, the students presented to the entire Holton faculty, adjusting their presentations for an audience of over 100 faculty and managing the logistics of multiple, rotating sessions over the course of four hours.

“The students stepped up to each challenge they were presented with open, respectful collaboration and exemplary problem-solving skills,” said Mr. Gordon.

“When doing the presentation, I was surprised by how quickly my nerves disappeared once I saw how engaged and openminded the teachers were,” said Grace. “This experience showed me the power of student

leadership and reminded me that age shouldn’t be a barrier to making an impact. I’m now excited to bring the AI Tasting to more student-driven spaces in the future.”

This approach to professional development—handson, exploratory, and collaborative—enabled faculty to see AI not as a disruption, but as a strategic enhancement to their workflow. For the students, seeing their hard work being implemented in the classrooms by their own teachers has been gratifying and motivating.

Expanding Beyond Holton

What began as an internal initiative evolved into a larger “social venture.” The cohort developed a Full Menu version of the AI Tasting and developed an outreach plan for area schools.

The team is now working with Landon School on potential integration, and additional partnerships are in development.

The program also drew attention on a broader stage when the AI Cohort presented the Tasting at the Reimaging Technology in Education Conference in May. Mrs. Hassell-Lee explained, “Since the conference is more tech-focused, the students are had to shift their focus, showing educators how to implement the AI Tasting model in their own school communities.”

Leadership and Innovation

The AI Tasting initiative reflects a core strength of Holton-Arms: cross-generational collaboration and a culture that values curiosity, initiative, and shared growth. “The enthusiasm and professionalism these students have shown in developing these professional development presentations has been truly inspiring,” said Mr. Gordon.

Of the experience, Angel said, “The AI Tastings have provided a meaningful opportunity for me to not only share my passion for AI but also give back to the Holton community through an innovative, hands-on approach. One of the most rewarding aspects of this whole experience has been seeing how enthusiastic the teachers are in applying what they learned in the sessions to their classrooms.”

Grace’s mom, Jing Yu P’26, shared her appreciation as well: "The workshop [Mr. Gordon and Mrs. HassellLee] organized at the conference was informative and a fantastic way to support educators while giving the girls a truly rewarding experience."

Beyond Holton’s Open Door

At Holton-Arms, excellence is a foundation, continuously expanded through purposeful discovery, meaningful connection, and bold creation. As part of our commitment to preparing girls for a future of impact and innovation, Holton offers programs that invite students to step beyond the traditional classroom and into experiences that cultivate intellectual curiosity, global thinking, and authentic leadership. These initiatives equip young women to thrive in a complex, connected world.

MODEL UN:

Navigating Diplomacy and Building Leaders

A key goal at Holton is to help students grow into the most confident, knowledgeable, compassionate version of themselves, poised to make a difference in their local, national, and global communities. The Model UN program is the perfect opportunity for our students to not only learn, but live and lead. Model UN offers students a transformative

experience, one that encourages critical thinking, confident speaking, and meaningful engagement with peers from around the country. By stepping into the roles of international delegates, students explore global challenges, research complex issues, draft thoughtful policy proposals, and negotiate solutions with diplomacy and care.

This year, Holton students brought their intellect, diplomacy, and leadership to the Virginia Model UN Conference. Whether researching global crises or speaking on

behalf of a nation, they strengthened skills that will serve them for a lifetime and opened doors to the world around them.

WORLD LANGUAGES: Nurturing Dialogue and Cultural Sensitivity

Through an inquiry-based curriculum that develops language proficiency via experiential and interdisciplinary projects, the World Languages Department encourages students to become self-directed learners and empowers them by strengthening their emotional, intellectual, ethical, and social understanding of the world beyond Holton’s open door. Participation in the National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y) provides students an immersive experience that not only enhances their language skills but also broadens their cultural horizons and personal growth, highlighting Holton’s commitment to fostering globally minded students.

Another opportunity is the prestigious U.S. Department of State’s Critical Language

Scholarship (CLS) program. Holton alumna and former CLS JACQUALINE ASUQUO ’15, serves as a program coordinator, over 40 U.S. students in their immersive study of Mandarin, overseeing academics, cultural engagement, and student life.

Language Immersion in Taiwan

Holton student ZAHRA R. ’26 participated in the National Security Language Initiative for Youth Mandarin program in Taiwan. Being immersed in an authentic Mandarin-speaking environment gave Zahra a chance to fully engage with the language and culture on a level that is not possible in a classroom setting. The program was more than a language immersion; Zahara also built strong bonds with her peers, teachers, and host family.

READ MORE ABOUT ZAHRA’S EXPERIENCE IN TAIWAN

A TRADITION OF CONNECTION

Holton-Arms & Landon School Strengthen Their Collaborative Bond

For generations, Holton-Arms School and Landon School have built a tradition of partnership, creating opportunities for students to connect purposefully, discover and create, collaborate, and grow together. What began as occasional gatherings between neighboring independent schools has blossomed into a dynamic relationship rooted in community, creativity, and mutual respect.

Throughout the academic year, Holton and Landon students come together for a variety of events designed to foster meaningful connections beyond the classroom. The much-anticipated Fall and Spring Collaborations have become a hallmark

experience for both schools. During these gatherings, Holton girls and Landon boys travel to each other’s campuses to engage in team-building games, collaborative community service projects, and spirited activities. From problem-solving challenges

to (not-so) friendly dodgeball competitions, these events offer students a chance to step out of their routines and build lasting friendships.

In 2025, the beloved Holton-Arms and Landon Improv troupes marked their 20th anniversary of collaboration, a two-decade partnership built on humor, quick thinking, and shared laughter. The troupes’ unscripted journey began in 2004 when Robert Gelb (Landon ’06) and ARIELLE SEIDMAN ’06 founded the improv clubs at their respective schools. What started as a shared passion for comedy has since grown into one of the longest-running and most successful alliance between the two communities.

“It has been amazing watching the two troupes collaborate and perform together over the years. Improv is one of the most successful and longest-running collaborations between our two schools, and it is a great opportunity for our students to work and play together,” said MARK ROBINSON,

Holton’s former Director of Theatrical Arts and Theater Manager, who has overseen many of the joint performances.

“The 20-year anniversary is a wonderful milestone to reach and a testament to the commitment of our students to the community and fun that is created through improv,” Robinson said.

2025 Holton Improv President AUDREY COLBOURN ’25 echoed that sentiment.

“This community and its continuous, successful collaboration have always been one of my safe spaces, and I’ve been so fortunate to meet some of my best friends."

This year, the spirit of collaboration extended to the leadership teams at both schools. Administrators from HoltonArms and Landon met to reflect on the history of the partnership and explore new opportunities to nurture these connections. Together, they discussed ways to enhance student programming, expand joint initiatives, and reinforce the shared values that have long united their communities.

HONORING

FACULTY DEDICATION

During the end of year Faculty and Staff Appreciation Brunch, hosted by the Parents Association, Holton-Arms recognized retiring faculty and those marking milestone years of service to the community.

LINDA BAILY – 45 years at Holton-Arms

Most recently as Lower School Design Technology teacher

For 45 years, Linda Baily has been a driving force behind innovation, creativity, and experiential learning in Holton’s Lower School. As co-founder of the Design Technology program, she helped pioneer an interdisciplinary curriculum that empowers young girls to think like engineers, encouraging them to imagine, build, test, and refine. Blending science, art, and literature, the program challenges students in grades 3 through 6 to engage in hands-on projects: building go-carts with saws and hammers, designing machines with Legos, and constructing a traditional Mongolian ger. These experiences deepen critical thinking, inspire collaboration, and cultivate creative confidence. Linda’s lasting impact is woven into the very fabric of Holton-Arms. Her work reflects the school’s mission to educate not only the mind, but also the soul and spirit—nurturing students who are curious, capable, and ready to lead.

YOLANDA KEENER – 41 years at Holton-Arms

Most recently as Grade 12 Dean and Upper School Psychology teacher

According to colleagues, “Yolanda embodies grace and wisdom, a role model who leads by example, offering a warm hug, a word of prayer, a gentle listening ear, and a big belly laugh, just when you need it.”

NING JIANG – 20 years at Holton-Arms

Most recently as Upper School Chinese teacher

Described by colleagues as “insightful, funny, and intelligent, with a dedicated focus on her students. She is an extraordinary teacher who genuinely cares for her students, academic standards, and her subject.”

DONNA MACLEAN – 19 years at Holton-Arms

Most recently Upper School Photography teacher

Colleagues paid tribute to Donna’s commitment to ensuring that Holton students understand traditional photography while keeping abreast of new technology, as well as “encouraging them to use their lens to look beyond what they see with the naked eye.”

ENDURING SERVICE

Celebrating the dedication and impact of Holton’s faculty and staff marking milestone years of service. Thank you for shaping generations with your commitment and care.

YEARS 15 YEARS 5

YEARS 10

Josie Shiroma

Melinda Salata and Nina Gilman

From L to R: Mike Hannam, Mary Kline, Alessandra King, Whitney Evans, Maureen Siburt, DANI ARONSON ’99, and Sherry Wells

From L to R: Caroline Bosc, Jacquie Fernandes, CLAIRE NORRIS ’98, Joy Colburn, Sally Paradis, Tamiret Tirye, ELIZABETH DAVIS ’90, and Callie Oliver

From L to R: Jasmine Owens, Suzanne Carter, Hollie Hinderlie, Leah Young, and Pam Wachutka

The 2025 Recipient Yolanda Keener

The Open Door Award, introduced during the 20232024 school year, is presented to a member of Holton’s faculty or staff who exemplifies the spirit of community-building at the heart of our mission. Selected by the Head of School, the recipient is someone who quietly and powerfully shapes the Holton experience, not seeking the spotlight but opening Holton’s metaphorical door with joy, purpose, kindness, responsibility, and respect, whether all or none are watching.

In presenting the award, Head of School PENNY B. EVINS shared:

“Yolanda is a welcomer and a mentor, a seasoned educator of mind, soul, and spirit. In past recognition ceremonies, she was described as having a heart as vast as her institutional knowledge. Whether in her professional roles in security, the bookstore, as a boarding parent, senior class dean, psychology teacher, or seminar instructor, Yolanda quite literally wrote the book on integrity at Holton.

Her moral compass continues to inspire new chapters. Every alumna, parent, visitor, and employee is better for having known Yolanda. Generations of students have grown up under her wise and gracious guidance, and many now pass along her influence to their own children and communities. 2025 OPEN DOOR AWARD

The first recipient of the Open Door Award was DAVID HAWKINS. In presenting the inaugural award, Head of School PENNY B. EVINS, shared, "With a caring heart, friendly smile, a caretaker of Holton’s youngest and most senior citizens, even those with four legs, Dave knows how to turn a sleepy gray morning into rainbows and butterflies.”

GET TO KNOW

"We pride ourselves on opening our doors to a wide variety of universities for our students to meet with.”

– SUZANNE CARTER

"Our approach

to the college

counseling process starts with trying to understand what students want out of their college experience.”

– MATTHEW WILLCOX

Mission-Driven College Counseling

In today’s hypercompetitive college admissions landscape, students often find themselves caught in a numbers game, focusing solely on rankings and admission rates. At Holton-Arms School, our approach is centered on relationships, trust, and finding the perfect fit for each student.

Building Trust Through Open Doors

“My personal philosophy when it comes to college counseling is creating a warm and welcoming environment to build relationships, in order to ultimately understand your student and help them create a list that best fits,” explains SUZANNE CARTER, Director of College Counseling at Holton-Arms.

This philosophy manifests in literal open doors. The counseling office welcomes not only students but also a diverse array of university representatives each fall. These conversations frequently lead to applications and expanded college lists as students discover institutions they might never have considered.

“We pride ourselves on opening our doors to a wide variety of universities for our students to meet with,” Carter notes. “These conversations often result in applications and the broadening of lists.”

Finding the Right Fit

“Our approach to the college counseling process starts with trying to understand what students want out of their college experience,” explains MATTHEW WILLCOX, Assistant Director of College Counseling and Registrar at Holton-Arms. “From there we build a list of schools with ‘fit’ as the main driver and ultimately look to create a balanced list of applications.”

This focus on fit over prestige yields impressive results. Carter recalls a recent graduate who declined offers from top-ranked state flagships to attend a university better aligned with her intended double major.

“Immediately, she was reaping the rewards of her decision as she received named grants to study the summer before enrolling in addition to honors designations that live on her resume as a freshman!” Carter shares.

"I encourage my students to tell their own stories— about the people, places, and things that matter to them. When you invest yourself in the experience, you almost always create more profound and meaningful outcomes.”

BEN FERRY

Inspiring by Example

At Holton-Arms, the arts are not only a means of expression, they’re a powerful way to live with intention, learn through exploration, and lead with empathy. Upper School art teacher Ben Ferry embodies this philosophy in the classroom and through his own artistic practice.

“I encourage my students to tell their own stories about the people, places, and things that matter to them,” explains Ferry. “When you invest yourself in the experience, you almost always create more profound and meaningful outcomes.” His teaching isn’t hypothetical, it’s grounded in his lived commitment to using art as a vehicle for storytelling, connection, and cultural preservation.

Seven years ago, Ferry stepped into a small Manor Park neighborhood hat shop owned by Vanilla P. Beane, affectionately known as “D.C.’s Hat Lady.” Inspired by her legacy, Ferry asked to paint her portrait. What began as a personal gesture became something far more enduring.

In 2024, his portrait was acquired by the Smithsonian’s Anacostia Community Museum. “Future generations of Washingtonians and Americans deserve to hear her story,” Ferry explains. “Vanilla P. Beane represents so many different forms of history: American history, D.C. history, women's history, Black history, art, and fashion history. She deserves recognition.”

Ferry’s motivation underscores a deeper belief in the value of lived experience and community connection. In a technologydriven world, meaningful storytelling has become more challenging. Ferry’s work serves as a reminder that stories can be lost if we don’t take the time to recognize them. For Ferry, Ms. Beane’s shop evoked nostalgia for small-town communities built around local businesses. “Something about who she was and what she represented felt so beautiful and nostalgic in my mind. A piece of living history,” he shared. “I knew from the very first time I caught a glimpse of her through the window of her shop that I wanted to make art about her.”

For his students, Ferry’s work is more than inspiration, it’s an invitation. Whether in the studio or on canvas, he encourages students to lead lives of curiosity, integrity, and impact.

READ MORE ABOUT FERRY'S HAT LADY TRIBUTE

Mr. Ben Ferry and Vanilla P. Beane

FINE & PERFORMING ARTS

In his portrait, Mr. Ferry believes he captured a rare moment: “For the briefest of moments, this humble servant of God let down her guard and acknowledged pride in a life well lived.” Through his art, Mr. Ferry ensures that Beane’s remarkable legacy continues to inspire future generations.

CREATIVITY WITH PURPOSE

At Holton-Arms, creativity isn’t just encouraged, it’s cultivated as an essential part of every student’s growth. The school’s inaugural Visionary Voices arts festival, conceived by Felicia Swoope, Director of Fine and Performing Arts, exemplifies Holton’s belief that discovering and creating are integral to purposeful education. This all-school showcase elevates the artistic expression of Lower, Middle, and Upper School students while reinforcing Holton’s commitment to whole-child development and interdisciplinary learning.

“Visionary Voices is a testament to the imagination and hard work of our brilliant students,” said Swoope. “Through their art, they are sharing their unique voices and diverse perspectives. Our goal is to cultivate a safe, creative environment where our students can stretch their imaginations, challenge preconceived notions, and step beyond their comfort zones.”

New Tradition with Strategic Impact

A community-wide celebration of creativity, Visionary Voices is poised to become a cherished Holton tradition. The festival is structured to highlight the continuum of artistic development across all grade levels, providing students with a sense of progression, purpose, and pride. It also reinforces the school’s broader goal of educating not only the mind, but the soul.

Arts as Strategic Pillar

By spotlighting the arts in such a visible, inclusive, and intentional way, Holton reaffirms its position as a school where the creative process is not peripheral, but foundational. The festival exemplifies how the arts can strengthen community bonds, fuel interdisciplinary thinking, and offer students meaningful opportunities to reflect, communicate, and lead.

Shaped by Change

Reflecting on the final theme for the year, Transformation, KAYIN B. ’25, said, “We started the year with hunks of clay and very little clue about what we wanted to do. What we’ve made is something to be proud of. We’ve transformed as artists, yes, but also as people. We’ve gained patience, learned how to slow down, learned how to be okay with failure, and how to start over again and again until it feels right.”

Art Across Campus

The Adalman Gallery featured a striking array of photographs captured by our entrylevel students, as well as imaginative ceramic clocks symbolizing the unfolding of time.

The Della Robbia Gallery invited viewers to explore the cosmos through celestial-themed creations by sixth-grade engineers, early evidence of the boundless creativity we foster at Holton.

The Camalier Gallery and Lewis Theater Lobby, our advanced art students presented powerful works, from sculptural ceramics that captivate to a mobile that celebrates the artistry of our photographers. The space also featured deeply personal drawings of loved ones, evocative landscape paintings, and beautifully nuanced renderings that hint at the diverse talents of our students.

In the Lower School halls, third-grade students honored Jacob Lawrence with depictions of family migrations, while fourthgraders explored and responded to the work of Faith Ringgold with works reflecting family celebrations. Inspired by George Seurat and Paul Signac, fifth-graders painted landscapes using the distinct style of pointillism. Sixth graders explore identity through surrealist self-portraits and ceramic plates inspired by the “Blue Willow” pattern.

In the Middle School halls, seventh-grade students delved into mindfulness through an exercise called neurographia and explored the intersections of math and art through geometry, optical illusions, and tessellations. Through hand-building techniques inspired by famous artists, eighth graders respond to the prompt, “What does the word ‘home’ mean to you?” The resulting pieces reveal thoughtful and personal reflections.

2025 NATIONAL SCHOLASTIC ART & WRITING AWARDS

Holton-Arms Students Excel

Founded in 1923, the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards is the nation’s most prestigious recognition program for teen artists and writers, offering opportunities for national recognition, exhibition, publication, and scholarships. In 2025, nearly 110,000 students across the United States and Canada submitted over 310,000 original works in 28 categories spanning visual art and writing. Judges looked for work that pushed boundaries,

challenged assumptions, and reflected the program’s core values: originality, technical skill, and a distinct personal voice or vision.

Among the exceptional pool of talent, Holton-Arms students stood out, earning 128 awards across the disciplines of photography, painting and drawing, ceramics, and writing, with additional entries in fashion and mixed media.

ART AWARDS

The fine arts program at Holton teaches students art as a visual language and combines technical training with the development of imagination and personal expression.

SOPHIA G. ’27, Gold Key winner for her work Caught Red-Handed, says of her art studies, "The Painting and Drawing class at Holton has provided a meaningful space for me to channel my creativity and bring my ideas to life. Winning multiple Scholastic Awards was a gratifying experience that made me feel appreciated for my work and has encouraged me to continue growing as an artist."

NELL C. ’27, Silver Key winner for her work Muses Find Me by Moonlight, explains, "My ceramics work is usually very personal; it's a reflection of my experiences, pain, and passion. Submitting to Scholastic and receiving recognition made me feel seen and validated, knowing that there is someone else appreciating my story through my artwork."

ARTS AWARD HIGHLIGHTS

• 36 Gold Key Awards (Gold Key recipients advance to national adjudication)

• 28 Silver Key Awards

• 63 Honorable Mentions

AT THE NATIONAL LEVEL

• Gold Key winner CECILIA C. ’27 won a Silver Key

• Gold Key Winner SEDONA H. ’25 won a prestigious "American Visions Award" for her ceramic work titled Dollar Bill

WRITING AWARDS

The writing curriculum at Holton empowers students to express their ideas clearly and creatively, helping them develop a strong sense of voice and self-assurance.

AT THE D.C. AREA REGIONAL LEVEL

• 8 Gold Medals

• 10 Silver Medals

• 10 Honorable Mention

AT THE NATIONAL LEVEL

• NELL C. ’27 received a Gold Medal for her piece Final Exam and was one of just ten students nationwide to be honored with the New York Life Award, which recognizes works that thoughtfully explore themes of personal loss and grief.

• CINDY M. ’27: 2 Gold and 1 Silver

• ALEX C. ’26: 2 Silver

A double recipient in art and writing, NELL C. ’27, adds, “For me, writing is a deeply personal process. When I share my work, I feel vulnerable, as if I’m exposing a part of my inner world. But there’s beauty in that vulnerability–especially when it’s met with recognition. In those moments, I know the reader sees the whole of who I am. I don’t need to explain; the words speak for themselves.”

ALEX C. ’26, says of her writing, “Both of my pieces were really fun to write, and I enjoyed having a creative outlet during all the stress of school. Writing enables me to channel my creative ideas into a piece that reflects my individuality and imagination.”

Athletic Edge

COACHES CORNER

The Heart Behind the Whistle

Cami

Roth’s

Coaching Journey

A conversation with Cami Roth, Assistant Coach for Holton’s Varsity Field Hockey team and Coach for Holton’s Middle School Lacrosse teams.

CAMI ROTH stalks the sidelines with purpose, her eyes tracking player movements with the precision of someone who understands the game at its most fundamental level. But field hockey and lacrosse weren’t always her sporting languages.

“Growing up, soccer was my first love. I played it through college and even coached varsity at Holton for eleven years,” Roth explains, watching her field hockey players execute a corner drill. “But when my family moved back here during high school, I discovered field hockey at Whitman [High School].”

The transition wasn’t just about picking up a new stick. “I played midfield—we called it ‘link’—leveraging my soccer skills, such as off-ball movement and strategic thinking,” she recalls with a smile. That natural athleticism paid dividends quickly; her high school team reached the state finals each year she played.

What drives an accomplished soccer player to branch out into sports with entirely different mechanics and rules? For Roth, the answer lies in the challenge itself.

“I loved applying my soccer skills and strategies to new sports,” she says. “Learning new skills was challenging, but that challenge was what intrigued me the most.”

This appetite for growth followed her beyond high school. “Field hockey required me to adapt to new rules and skills, while lacrosse allowed me to utilize my speed and athleticism to tackle fresh challenges.”

But individual skill development tells only part of the story. “I also enjoy team sports for the camaraderie and teamwork they foster, Roth adds. “Playing as part of a team has taught me valuable lessons in resilience and adaptability when facing setbacks.”

Evolution of the Games

As both player and coach, Roth has witnessed significant evolution in her sports.

“I appreciate how both lacrosse and field hockey have evolved over time, with adjustments in skills and rules that have significantly improved the games,” she observes. “Field hockey was once primarily played on grass, where obstruction was more prominent and techniques like sweeps and aerials were nonexistent.”

She goes on to say: “Similarly, lacrosse has introduced features such as restraining lines, boundaries, and a shot clock. These changes have enhanced the flow of both sports, allowing them to be played at a much faster and more dynamic pace.”

The Coaching Balance

Perhaps the most delicate skill in coaching isn’t technical instruction but knowing when to push and when to support.

“As I’ve grown older and become a parent, I’ve refined my ability to know when to push players and when to offer support,” Roth reflects. “Coaching requires adaptability, as every player is unique and demands different approaches based on their situation and personality.”

Her coaching philosophy crystallizes around resilience. “Teaching resilience and managing setbacks is particularly challenging, but I emphasize that making mistakes is a sign of pushing oneself,” she says. “I often say, ‘If you aren’t making mistakes, then you’re not challenging yourself enough.'”

Moments of Pride

When asked about her proudest coaching moment, Roth hesitates, sorting through countless meaningful memories.

“That is such a hard question to answer, as I’ve had so many proud moments over the years,” she says thoughtfully. “I think when you see the potential in an individual or a team and they begin to gain confidence, have those lightbulb moments, and realize what they are capable of doing, it’s truly inspiring.”

Her eyes brighten as she continues. “For me, it’s about witnessing growth and

transformation firsthand. Whether it’s a team overcoming challenges or an individual achieving their goals, these moments remind me of why I do what I do.”

The Joy of Coaching Girls

Roth finds particular fulfillment in coaching young women athletes, noting the distinctive dynamics that shape these teams.

“Coaching girls is incredibly rewarding,” she says with conviction. “They tend to listen and appreciate the personal side of coaching, feeling seen as individuals rather than just players. They thrive in trusting environments where they can be themselves and take risks.”

Creating that environment requires intentionality. “Positive reinforcement and open communication are essential. Social connections are also important, so investing time in building team bonds can have a significant impact.”

As practice concludes and players gather their equipment, Roth’s final thought encapsulates her coaching philosophy: “Ultimately, it’s about creating a safe and supportive space where they feel encouraged to grow and be brave.”

On fields across the country, coaches like Cami Roth aren’t just teaching sports— they’re shaping the next generation’s understanding of teamwork, resilience, and personal growth. For them, coaching isn’t just a sideline role—it’s where they find their deepest purpose.

"Ultimately, it’s about creating a safe and supportive space where [students] feel encouraged to grow and be brave.”

– CAMI ROTH

SPRING SIGNING DAY

Six Holton Athletes Commit

Holton-Arms celebrated six student-athletes who committed their athletic careers to Division I schools. ELISE A. ’25, will continue her track and field career at Marist College. ELLA M. ’25, will compete on the Northeastern University crew team. FOLEY R. ’25, LORETTA T. ’25, will continue their soccer careers at Vanderbilt University and the University of Virginia, EVAJOLIE C. ’25 will compete on New York University’s volleyball team, and AINSLEY K. ’25 will be diving for Macalester College.

BOTTOM: ELLA M. ’25, AINSLEY K. ’25, and ELISE A. ’25

TOP: FOLEY R. ’25, EVAJOLIE C. ’25, and LORETTA T. ’25

BELOW: After an undefeated season and a second straight MAGHL A Varsity championship, Holton’s varsity hockey team is moving up to the AA Division.

READ MORE ABOUT THE ICE HOCKEY TEAM'S SUCCESSFUL SEASON

ABOVE: Panthers secured their fourth consecutive Washington Metropolitan Prep School Swimming and Diving League (WMPSSDL) championship.

ABOVE: The Holton Varsity Volleyball Team clinched the ISL championship in a thrilling five-set match against St. Andrew's.

BLUE & WHITE NIGHT

A beloved Holton tradition, Blue & White Night is part school spirit celebration, part athletics blockbuster, and all fun community gathering under the lights. This year, the evening kicked off with Junior Varsity Soccer and Volleyball matches and continued with a lineup of Varsity games in Soccer, Volleyball, and Field Hockey. In between, families and students enjoy an array of festive activities, including a dinner buffet, games, and performances. Whether cheering on classmates or soaking in the community spirit, Blue & White Night set the tone for another unforgettable Holton year.

The Power of Parent Involvement

The Holton community is built on strong connections— between students, families, faculty, and staff. The pride of being a Panther shines through in every interaction. We are especially grateful for the unwavering support of our Parents Association, whose dedication strengthens every part of school life. Whether it’s reading to Lower School classes, volunteering at school events, or organizing faculty and staff appreciation days, the Panther spirit is made even stronger by the commitment of our Holton families.

“[Holton] showed me that it’s ‘cool’ to be smart. I was able to nurture my voice, and I was encouraged to be the best version of myself.”

– MOLLIE KLURFELD WILLIAMS '99

INSPIRING LEADERSHIP

The Women & Power for Good Summit at Holton-Arms

Events like the Women & Power for Good Summit exemplify Holton-Arms School’s unwavering commitment to its vision: inspiring young women to lead lives of positive influence. This special gathering brought together alumnae and Upper School students for a dynamic and engaging exploration of leadership, empowerment, and the evolving relationship between women and power.

Head of School PENNY B. EVINS opened the Summit with a bold statement of possibility:: “There is no one way to find your way.” That theme echoed throughout the day as alumnae shared their stories of discovery, growth, and resilience.

Throughout the event, students had the opportunity to connect purposefully in intimate discussions with Holton alumnae, gaining insights into their diverse career paths and how their Holton education and community shaped their journeys. These conversations served as powerful reminders

of the possibilities that exist beyond the School’s walls.

SAMANTHA NOLAND ’17, an actor turned director, spoke about making bold choices driven by her creative vision. Her message to students was simple and empowering: “If you want to do something, try it.”

AMY GOODWIN ’03, a Technical Project Manager at the National Geographic Society, discussed how she merges her engineering background with her passion for folklore and mythology. She urged students to be both curious and proactive: “Find the things

Back L to R: MARTHA L. DIPPELL ’68, GAIL GRANOWITZ ’75, CASSIE GOOD ’01, ALICE SPRINKLE ’14, SARAH ETTINGER ’11, ISABEL CABEZAS ’13, SARA ICKOW ’05, Head of School PENNY B. EVINS, MARCIA JOHNSON BATESON ’75, WINTON SMOOT HOLLADAY ’70, JULIE GOLD ’92, JENNY GEORGIA ’78, MARINA DI MARZO ’12, OUIDA MAEDEL ’02, MARISA MURILLO ’95, and KIKI SOMERVILLE ’92

Front L to R: LINDSAY ADAMS ’08, MOLLY MADIGAN PISULA ’90, SABRINA PAPAZIAN ’08, SAMANTHA NOLAND ’17, Chair of Board of Trustees JESSIE HOLLADAY STERCHI ’99, MOLLIE KLURFELD WILLIAMS ’99, AMY GOODWIN ’03, and ALIX KRAM ’98

no one else can see, focus on the need, and figure out how to fill it.”

A consistent theme among all the speakers was the deep confidence and sense of purpose that comes from being a Holton-Arms student. MOLLIE KLURFELD WILLIAMS ’99 reflected on how Holton helped her embrace her intellect and individuality: “It showed me that it’s ‘cool’ to be smart. I was able to nurture my voice, and I was encouraged to be the best version of myself.”

WINTON SMOOT HOLLADAY ’70 emphasized the enduring value of the Holton network and encouraged students to cherish and cultivate those unique relationships.

Today, nearly 7,500 Holton alumnae around the world embody the school’s motto through lives of excellence and service. Events like the Women & Power for Good summit not only celebrate their achievements but also pass the torch to the next generation of Holton leaders.

While each speaker’s path was different, one truth was undeniable: Holton-Arms students are united by a shared strength—the power of their community. The Summit illustrated just how far that support and inspiration can carry them.

This meaningful event was made possible through the generous support of alumna and Trustee

MARCIA JOHNSON BATESON ’75. A former Holton Representative Assembly Director and co-creator of the 1975 Potential of Women Day Assembly, Marcia has been a passionate advocate for the power of women since her own days as a student.

INSPIRING EXAMPLES

Reconnect, Reflect, & Empower

At Holton-Arms, welcoming alumnae back through our Open Doors is more than a tradition, it’s a celebration of connection, growth, and the enduring strength of the Holton sisterhood. Through a series of inspiring events, such as Women & Power for Good, Make Your Way Day, and the Young Alumnae Panels, students engage with alumnae to explore how a Holton education continues to shape lives, careers, and communities beyond graduation.

Make Your Way Day

Make Your Way Day offers Middle School students a unique opportunity to connect with alumnae in open, authentic conversations about life beyond Holton. These informal sessions spark curiosity and build confidence as students hear firsthand how the skills they’re building now will help them navigate future challenges, pursue passions, and chart their own paths.

Alumnae generously share stories of career twists and turns, the tough decisions they’ve faced, and the lessons they learned along the way, offering encouragement

and insights that helps students envision what’s possible. Through these heartfelt interactions, students begin to see how the skills they’re developing at Holton, from academic rigor and time management to emotional resilience and perseverance built in the arts and athletics, are laying the foundation for success and fulfillment in every aspect of life.

Young Alumnae Panels

When recent graduates return to campus, their words resonate in powerful and personal ways. During the Young Alumnae

“Don’t feel like you have to figure this out alone. Your parents, friends, and Holton teachers are here for you, they want to see you succeed.”

Panels, Upper School students heard unfiltered reflections about life just beyond Holton: from navigating college applications and adjusting to new environments, to building community, managing independence, and finding balance in early adulthood.

With warmth, humor, and honesty, alumnae shared real-world advice and reassurance that Holton has prepared them well. One panelist encouraged students, “Don’t feel like you have to figure this out alone. Your parents, friends, and Holton teachers are here for you, they want to see you succeed.” Another reminded them, “Your Holton experience has given you strength and resilience. Trust yourself.”

These alumnae events provide guidance and reaffirm the deep bonds of the Holton community. Through every story and every conversation, students are reminded that they are part of something lasting: a network of women who support one another, lead with purpose, and carry forward a legacy of courage, compassion, and connection.

LEFT: Head of School PENNY B. EVINS, GAIL FRAWLEY ’75, and LIZEY KORENGOLD BERNSTORF ’08

CENTER: Brooke Seawell (Landon ’65)

RIGHT: DaughterRachel Coleman and Brooke Seawell (Landon ’65)

2025 REUNION WEEKEND

Welcome Alumnae!

As Head of School PENNY B. EVINS addressed returning alumnae during the 2025 Reunion Weekend, she reflected, “Your time, talents, and generosity have helped shape Holton into the thriving, joyful community we celebrate today.” The Holton-Arms campus welcomed nearly 200 alumnae for a weekend of celebration and connection, reuniting generations of the Holton graduates..

Alumnae gathered poolside to cheer on students competing in the ever-popular cardboard boat engineering challenge, a spirited showcase of Holton’s creativity. In a touching intergenerational exchange, the classes of 1950 and 1955 met with their thirdgrade pen pals, sharing stories of Holton’s past and present.

During a special luncheon celebrating the 50th and 55th Reunion classes, Mrs. Evins shared updates on the school’s continued pursuit of excellence, highlighting strategic planning initiatives designed to ensure the continuation of Holton’s legacy of excellence. Additional weekend events included a Blue & White Cookout, the Alumnae Association cocktail party, and student-led tours, providing meaningful connection opportunities for alumnae, family, and friends.

Distinguished Alumna Award

The Distinguished Alumna Award, established in 1973 to recognize an alumna for exceptional career or volunteer accomplishments, was presented to GAIL FRAWLEY ’75. A powerful example of excellence within the Holton community, Gail seamlessly blends her careers in medicine and the arts. After Holton, she attended Dartmouth and Columbia University, and for over 40 years, she has worked as an anesthesiologist, practicing in New York and abroad in the Caribbean and Haiti, dedicating over two decades to volunteer work in underserved countries. In 2012, she founded SPIRALIS, an online gallery celebrating Haitian and African art. In 2024, she opened a physical gallery in Easton, MD, aimed at fostering conversation, connection, and healing through art.

Gail is a true embodiment of Mrs. Holton’s vision in action—finding joy in the hard work she does and uplifting others with her humanity, intellect, and spirit.

The "Rosie" Award

The Rosemary Wire Anderson Award, also known as the “Rosie Award,” was established in 1990 to honor extraordinary service to Holton-Arms. The 2025 award was presented posthumously to ROSEMARY WARNER SEAWELL ’65*, with her husband Brooke Seawell (Landon '65) accepting the award and providing a heartfelt tribute. Every year, Rosemary and Brooke hosted a Holton-Landon gathering in the San Francisco Bay Area, bringing together alumnae from across generations. These gatherings created lasting connections within the Holton community. Rosemary also made a profound impact by generously funding the Warner/Seawell Student Commons within the Susanna A. Jones Learning Commons. This space, dedicated to her father, Holton alumnus BRAINARD HENRY WARNER III ’44, is more than a physical location—it is a symbol of Holton’s mission to create a collaborative, futurefocused learning environment. It stands as a hub where Panthers across all grade levels can gather, study, and connect purposefully in community.

WITH GRATITUDE

Cheers to Generosity

We are pleased to celebrate the winners of this year’s Reunion Class Giving Competitions and to thank all alumnae who generously contributed.

The Champagne Cup, awarded to the class with the highest participation in the Holton Fund, goes to the Class of 2015, who reached an outstanding 50% participation.

The Presidents’ Cup is awarded to the Class of 1975, whose extraordinary generosity resulted in more than $175,000 in contributions, including $100,000 to establish The 1975 Room in the Susanna A. Jones Learning Commons.

We also extend congratulations to the Class of 2000, this year’s runner-up, whose efforts surpassed their previous giving record.

In total, Reunion alumnae gave $256,666 in support of Holton. We are deeply grateful for your dedication to our school and its future.

Class Notes

Class of 1970 at Reunion Weekend

L to R: KATHY MINSCH, SUSAN CARTER OLDRIEVE, JEAN

PARKER PHIFER, WINTON SMOOT HOLLADAY, MAUREEN CERNY AULL, JENNIFER HOWLETT, LYN MCCLURE CAMPBELL, and WINDY HILGARTNER BASSERT

SEND CLASS NOTES

Doorways publishes alumnae news, including marriages, births, and deaths. Please note that we do not publish announcements of engagements or pregnancies.

Photos are included as space permits. All photos must be submitted in digital format, at a minimum size of 4" x 6" and a resolution of at least 300 dpi. Be sure to include the full names of everyone pictured, along with the date and location of the photo.

Class Notes are compiled and edited by the Class Secretaries and the Alumnae Office.

Please send news and photos to the Alumnae Office at doorways@holton-arms.edu.

1943C

LEE LORICK PRINA ’43C* passed away at age 100 in September 2024, according to her daughter, LEE-LEE PRINA, ’71. Lee hailed from Columbia, South Carolina, and came to Holton for two years of junior college with her twin, the late MARY LORICK BOYLE ’43C*. Lee wrote for the Scroll while a student. She later graduated from the University of South Carolina in 1945 and received a degree in 1946 from Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism. She had a successful freelance writing career. She was also the devoted wife of the late L. Edgar Prina for 66 years.

1957

FAITH BULLIS MACE lives in the house in Crystal Beach she bought in 1989. She takes a lot of cruises and takes family members (22-23) with her. The one coming up is to the eastern Caribbean in July. She is not sure, but after this trip her cruising days may be over. She reluctantly admits she is slowing down. She has 7 grandchildren and her sister Starr and two bothers are still living. An avid bridge player, she plays online nearly every day.

CAROLYN GOTT DU PONT has moved several times within Richmond. She has a new hip which is great, but her back continues to be a major pain. She still works 3 days a week at a house museum—work she truly enjoys.

LYNN HOLMAN NICHOLAS is pleased to have her son back in Washington, D.C., after 20 years in Spain. She has five grandchildren scattered around the country. Lynn has retired from her work researching art provenance and serving as an expert witness in claims trials. I

Connect with Kimberly

Kimberly would love to get to know you over coffee or during a campus visit. To schedule a time to meet, contact Joleen Hyde, Administrative Assistant for the Advancement Center, at joleen.hyde@holton-arms.edu.

Welcome Kimberly Stevenson Parks as New Director of Development

An accomplished development leader, Kimberly brings 30 years of fundraising and management experience, with a strong background in both independent schools and higher education.

A graduate of a girls’ school herself, Kimberly is thrilled to return to an environment that champions the power of girls’ education. She looks forward to building meaningful connections within the Holton-Arms community and advancing the school’s mission through thoughtful, strategic philanthropy.

Throughout her career, Kimberly has guided educational institutions through successful campaigns, major gift fundraising, and community engagement initiatives. She has held senior leadership positions at Loyola University Maryland, McDaniel College, and St. Paul’s School for Girls, consistently earning praise for her collaborative leadership style, relationship-driven approach, and commitment to fostering a culture of generosity.

“I believe in the transformative power of education and the importance of community in shaping the student experience,” Kimberly shares. “I’m eager to meet Holton families, alumnae, and friends and to hear what inspires them about this remarkable school.”

recently saw her testifying on a PBS documentary. I mentioned to her my difficulty downsizing my book collection, but that I am keeping the two books she wrote, Rape of Europa and Cruel World. She laughed and said she got rid of 800 books at one time and once they were gone, it didn’t look as though there were any fewer on her shelves.

LINDA ROBIN SUTLIFF writes: "I enjoy going out with Hal (Jewel) and Harwood (Martin) to our favorite fried chicken dinner place on a back road

by the railroad tracks in Gaithersburg. We used to go there with our spouses, and now are continuing the tradition. Friday is country western/rock band night, which I love and the guys are wonderful to accommodate me even though with rolling eyes. I had a great visit with ANN SCHEIN CARLYSS last fall in Connecticut. Ann is a favorite among her neighbors and the staff. Her 9 ft. Steinway recently found its home base in a space in her building. Just wait until the residents begin to hear her Chopin Preludes and more waft through the air. I continue

to be the official writer of enclosure cards for Mother’s Day and Valentine’s Day at Ultra Violet Flowers, the Georgetown shop our daughter owned for 10 years. A highlight of my week is teaching 4 and 5 year olds in Sunday School. Love those cuties and I learn much from their practice of the truth in their daily lives."

ANN SCHEIN CARLYSS is enjoying her summer off from teaching at Peabody Institute in Baltimore and the New School University in New York. She still schedules performances and plans to be in Florida for the Tampa Festival in July and hopes to connect with Faith.

ALLAN HOYT LEES is happily in a continuum of care facility in Winchester, Virginia. She is planning a trip to Los Angeles to see her son. Also in her plans is her annual trip to Eatons’ Ranch in Wyoming with her two sons and daughter.

SALLIE GIBBS SHOOK is delighted to have two working knees again. She is happily living at her home in Virginia Beach. Her husband Lou died recently at the age of 99. She misses him but is grateful for their long, happy marriage. Sallie sees her family frequently and finds her Siberian cat great company.

HOLLY AKRE ERTEL has no new news. She is very happy in her continuum of care facility in Macon, Georgia.

SUSAN MEYER CALL and I talk from time to time. She, also, is a recipient of a new knee. I may visit her in February if I go to the Gem and Mineral Show with my granddaughter who is at the University of Arizona.

BERRY POWERS ROBISON, "I have moved to a continuum of care facility in Vancouver, Washington, that is right on the Columbia River. I recently

had knee and hip surgery within a year of each other. It is so nice to be able to lean over and to be able to pick something up from the floor. The jury's still out as to whether I can get myself off the floor. In June, I am taking my family to Eatons’ Ranch and will overlap when Allan and family are there. I will wave enthusiastically as my family goes out for their rides without me.

I attempt to keep Holton up to date when I find a new address or phone number. If you are reading this, Holton has the right address for you. I welcome a call at 360-910-6919 or email at bprobison@comcast. net. I send you all wishes for good health, good company, and a safe environment."

1958

Getting away from a cold winter was on SYLVIA BOGLEY BIGGAR’s mind when she and Bob decamped to south Florida in January. They enjoyed relaxing in spring-like weather.

Beginning and ending on the docks of Old Montreal, JUDITH CONGER SHAFFER, SUSAN STONE WOODWARD, JOYCE LEVERTON MAUNEY and their friend, Judie Roberts, embarked on a 12 day cruise down the St. Lawrence River around Newfoundland. Sailing on a small ship means activities and excursions are never crowded. Special memories are of yummy cheese and unusual dried fish tastings: a self guided tour of the historic area where Vikings first landed in North America; the gorgeous Montmorency Falls; banging on a rhythm stick in a pub band; and cuddling with a huge, furry Newfoundland dog.

Our class has lost two wonderful schoolmates recently: DEE NASH BATES and BETTY ANN DASHER

CROVATO. Both women were loved and active while at Holton; Dee and her husband, Ave, retired to Tucson years ago. She loved the area’s desert landscape and became an active and talented painter of it. LINDA HOOPES TRACY visited her often in Arizona keeping up their enduring friendship. Betty Ann was an important part of the large contingent of ‘58er’s in the D.C. area. They loved her enthusiasm for life, her generosity and compassion. She was always optimistic and upbeat. They will miss her very much.

1959C

ALICE RISIEN SNYDER writes: "I was a graduate of the last college class on “S” Street. Could I get an update on that class? I am now 88 and still kicking. Mrs Brown instilled a love of the arts in me that led to a full, fun creative career as an Art Advisor from 1970-retirement in 1999. I am forever grateful for her inspiring method of teaching. Actually, I think she scared me into it."

1961

SHERRY BRADFORD CHRISTHILF wrote to me early on and I lost the email so I called her and she was having one of her vertigo episodes. She said, “Tell them I’m not doing anything except lying in various positions for a period of time and then moving to another position which they (the doctors) hope will move the crystals around to where they are supposed to be.” Sherry is going to a place called Fysical which, owing to its tacky spelling, she says ‘you have to be desperate’ to go.

She has resigned as head of the wonderful Art Seminar Group in Baltimore that has lectures every week.

Fueling the Mind, Soul, and Spirit

The Holton Fund is the School’s annual giving program and primary fundraising effort, fueling the education of the mind, soul, and spirit of every student. Gifts to The Holton Fund provide operating support to ensure students and teachers can excel and do their very best. Make an impact today. Scan the QR code to give.

LESLIE SMITH writes: "My husband, Joe, and I still live in our same house with our wonderful chocolate Labrador named Harriet. Joe is almost 91, on a walker, and a bit forgetful. I have a caregiver for him every day and his two sons are in close contact. We are blessed to have friends in the neighborhood who look out for us and seem to enjoy being entertained at our house at cocktail hour on Sundays. Most of the people we know now are much younger and we have met them through the dog park. Thank heavens for dogs."

BETTY SHIPMAN BOWDLE writes:

"I think of my happy days at Holton and treasure the memories. I’m happy to say I still walk well and I’m looking forward to riding my bike now that the weather has warmed up in Delaware. My husband and I are keeping the local doctors busy so that we can stay well.

We have no pets but enjoy watching our birds at the feeder as we eat our

RIGHT: MARIANNE

KEPHART JOLLEY on the autotrain to Florida.

BOTTOM: MARIANNE

KEPHART JOLLEY's farm in the Winter.

meals. One of my Cardinals has half of a white breast. This is a rare defect, but it’s nice to be able to tell him from the others. The squirrels try to shimmy up the PVC pipe, but my husband keeps it coated with Armor All so they slide down. Does anyone have any foil-proof method to keep the blackbirds, grackles, and starlings from devouring all the sunflower seeds in one sitting? Please share."

MARIANNE KEPHART JOLLEY

writes: "We left the horses, ice, and snow in January and took the Auto Train to Florida. Our son and his family get the fun of taking care of the farm and the horses as well as all their animals. Were housebound for two weeks due to ice on the driveway. We ended up driving through the farm to the back gate and out through our neighbor’s driveway. I felt like we had escaped. We have a step drive with a small cliff over the road at the end. We were very glad to head to Florida. When we got down here it was unusually cold and very windy

all of January however it was warmer than home. We have enjoyed our relaxing time. Going to miss this nice warm weather and all the wonderful places to eat. Spring is beginning to come in at home and that is a beautiful time of year in Virginia. We leave on the 17th and our Granddaughter and four friends all from Purdue come in the next day for a few days of spring break."

I asked her how she and her husband had gone from jobs to the horse farm and she wrote back this: “I started in education teaching in several states. Joe was in the Air Force for 11 years. I went from teaching 1st graders to curriculum and technology development in the classroom then I went to Apple in the Education division for 15 years covering various parts of D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. When we retired we wanted out of the rat race. Joe gladly went along with me living my dream. If truth were to be told, he loves his farm work and his farm “toys”. He coined the phrase: “I’m the facilities manager and she is the equine director”. Works well for us.

KATE PUTNAM BAXTER writes:

"As we, the Holton ’61, settle into our eighth decade, the value of and interaction with family and friends becomes ever more important for our health, well-being, and overall happiness. One of my favorite events is the 61 ZOOM, generally on the first Monday of each month, which brings us together to share, commiserate, enlighten, and laugh. Our enormous thanks for making this happen and for encouraging us throughout the months to stay connected and engaged. I hope more classmates will give it a try, particularly as our 65th reunion is just a year away. With thanks, a big hug."

ELEANOR BROWN DUNN writes:

"I am in Los Angeles witnessing the ongoing devastation from the fires.

The stories of loss are unending and to witness the efforts and intentions of so many to stay upbeat and hopeful in the face of all this is heartbreaking. I am lucky to be in Santa Monica busy with grandchildren who are affected by the fires in that their schools are in the Palisades. It means a lot of driving to various school events now happening at locations in and around town. I’m happy to be able to help. Otherwise, life is thankfully pretty normal. I’m involved with a theater board, a book club, lots of walking, and some travel. I look forward to our monthly class chats and I encourage others to join."

PEG MCDONALD WILLARD writes:

"Thanks for the unsolicited advertisement for my son Matt’s book series The Spinner Prince (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt). My biggest news is that my partner and I grew tired of commuting between our homes in New Jersey and Maine and bought one together in Scarborough, Maine. That took up the whole of 2024, downsizing and selling and moving TWICE, as well as seeking the perfect real estate. My sons, who grew up in Thomaston, Maine, are delighted, as am I. The t-shirt that says “Maine is my heart’s home” now has a double meaning for me. We’re spending February and March in Punta Gorda, Florida, and head back to Maine in early April."

ALEXANDRA FISHER MITCH writes: "Not much news except that I'm distracting myself by listening to

1962

PENNY FISCHBACH CUTLER & BRYNA FINE

BELL at Penny’s surprise 80th birthday party in Boca Raton, Fl where we both live. Fun to get together after all these years.

good music, reading good books, and being with good friends. Otherwise, my husband and I seem to be just recuperating from one medical procedure after another since December. Nothing horrendous, just the usual chipping away by a dermatologist. That seems to be the case for everyone our age. Resculpted and bandaged. Used to think of myself as healthy but am feeling my 81 years suddenly. Waking up with too many body parts going awry. Hope everyone else is doing well and finding ways to keep healthy. The cat’s antics help to keep things in perspective."

MARY LOU BUCHHEISTER COBB writes: "It is so wonderful to see you and other members of our class each month on Zoom. I truly think that it is time to give our small, but faithful group a name. What if we call ourselves the “Zoomers”? After all, we are of the Baby boomer generation. Five years ago, I stepped down as Head of The Cobb School in Simsbury, Connecticut. A few months later I decided to open a consulting business (Cobb Education Consulting, LLC). I work with Heads of schools, teachers, and parents. We live in an increasingly complex and challenging time, and it brings me enormous joy to support others during these times.

Three years ago was asked to serve on the board of the Ethel Walker School, an independent school for girls, and could not say no. The educational

world was turned upside down during the pandemic and I love working with the Head of School and often think of Holton-Arms. Both schools are dedicated to women’s education. Ten years ago I took a course on Montessori for Aging and Dementia, and shortly thereafter I started a program at a local nursing home using the Montessori philosophy of care. I am a teacher at heart and love seeing how Montessori works so well for people with Dementia.

My husband of nearly 60 years, Michael, and I are blessed to live near both of our children and 4 grandchildren. Our lives are really very busy around their academic, athletic, and social schedules. We love our 5-year-old rescue, Maisie, who is an Australian shepherd/golden mix. Joining her for play dates every week are our children’s dogs: Dexter, a Labradoodle, and Sammy, a Cavapoo."

NINA BLANDI WHITE writes: "Don and I are still glad we moved from Atlanta back to Hendersonville, North Carolina. Living in a retirement home has advantages and disadvantages. The major problem is that folks keep dying. Our community escaped damage from the hurricane, however, Hendersonville and surrounding areas are still dealing with tremendous devastation. Our health remains the same, we’re holding our own and my cancer is still in remission, thank God.

JULIE HALL HOUSTON writes:

"Several years ago I self-published a bawdy fairy tale entitled Volumina. I wrote it under my maiden name Julie Ann Hall. Suddenly several weeks ago I received a letter from Amazon for my taxes stating that I had royalties of $10.01. Volumina has been selling to I know not whom. I looked on Amazon and Volumina has five stars. It was an amazing and wonderful surprise.

For my news, everyone else has covered health and left out politics so that leaves small talk. I, LOUISE LEE DUNCAN, had my 82nd birthday and some friends took me to a breakfast where I had a candle on an almond croissant and lots of cards and chocolates. I read that the best things about aging are going out every day and interacting with anyone, like the checkout people, and tops are your friends.

I would be remiss if I did not tell you my older sister, MADELEINE DUNCAN HUGHES ’59*, died the day before Thanksgiving. I was only fifteen months younger than she was. She was in Holton’s 1959. We had not seen each other since our mother died in 1988. I would have liked things to be different."

1967

The 1967 again lost one of their own. SARA EWING DAVIS* died on Thursday, December 26, 2024, as she was visiting family in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

ANNE L. HOWARD-TRISTANI

writes: "In our 1967 Holton Class Yearbook, Sara selected a quote, ‘It is a world to see’ published next to her photo, which reflected her early international travels in Asia when she was growing up and her father was a career U.S. Foreign Service Officer at the U.S. Department of State. Her quote also reflects her hopes and dreams for an exciting and adventurous life in the future, which she indeed lived and shared with her husband Philip, her daughter Elizabeth and her son William among other members of her family."

ANNE TWEEDY TIFFANY writes: "I feel as if I lost a sister. Sara and I were both born in Bern, Switzerland in 1948 & ’49 where our fathers were both stationed with the U.S. State Department. Our families remained lifelong friends, and I recall often going for a visit to their farm in Maryland where she and her family

gave me an engagement party in 1973. Sadly, Sara and I did not remain in touch after graduation, but I, and several of our classmates, plan to attend a celebration of her life on April 26 at the Sulgrave Club in D.C."

JUDI HAVENS writes: "SUSIE COLE WEAN and I plus LYNNE CARVETH FILL’s younger sister, GEORGE ANNE CARVETH BROWN ’68, had lunch together in Florida. We had a great time talking about Susie’s and my downsizing homes here in Florida and the issues about getting rid of stuff that our kids are not interested in. It was a challenge for us both. We do this lunch at least once each year and it is a joy to keep in touch with both of them.

My husband and I made a rather hasty but needed downsize within the same community, Mariner Sands, in Stuart, FL. We immediately started rehabbing the house which has been quite a challenge. Living in a mess, stuff in boxes everywhere has taken its toll on my psyche but it is almost over. Rico, my husband, and I spent Christmas with my two children and their children in Boise, Idaho. It was a wonderful visit and my nearly 80-yearold husband went skiing with our four grandchildren. We were all proud of him and I was grateful he didn’t fall and break something.”

SUSIE COLE WEAN writes: "So sad to hear (the news of Sara’s passing). A beautiful obituary….I was in St Louis for a wedding party a number of years ago and sat at the same table as her sister. Such a loss. My memories are from more recent reunions that she attended—always with a smile on her face.

MARGIE ADDISON SHEPARD remembers how Sara was always filled with such vitality."

PEG GLANZMAN HENDEL writes: "An Art History dream came true. My

LEFT: JUDI HAVENS ’67, SUSIE COLE WEAN ’67, and GEORGE ANNE CARVETH BROWN ’68 met for lunch in February 2025. RIGHT: JUDI HAVENS with her four grandchildren in Boise, ID, Christmas morning 2024

NANCY BEERS PARSONS ’67 celebrated her 75th birthday last year in Hawaii with her husband, John.

daughter Kate and her family invited me to join them for Thanksgiving in Egypt last November. What an experience to see the ancient art we studied so long ago. This trip wasn’t even on my bucket list, as I never thought it could happen. We visited Cairo to see the pyramids at Dashur, Saqqara, and Giza (and the Sphinx.), and enjoyed a visit to the incredible and just-opened Grand Egyptian Museum and a 5-hour walking food tour. My lowimpact aerobics classes paid off for my venture down (and up) the 200+ feet shaft into the center of the Red Pyramid. Mid-week we headed south to Luxor to see the Karnak temple and the Valleys of the Kings and Queens, including King Tut’s tomb. Grandkids Amelia (10) and Mattis (8) are huge fans of National Geographic shows on ancient Egypt and impressed our guides with their extensive knowledge of the art and history. Go to Egypt- it’s a wonderful country."

NANCY BEERS PARSONS writes: "2024 was the best of years and the worst of years for me. To celebrate my 75th, my siblings and their spouses surprised me with a group trip to Hawaii. We spent five days on the Big Island and loved it. They sang Happy Birthday to me in every restaurant. This was the first time we had all been together since my

mom’s passing 9 years earlier. We gathered again in October in La Jolla to celebrate my brother, Tom’s, 80th birthday. In between John and I visited my younger brother, Richard, in Wisconsin as we do nearly every summer. Tragedy struck on November 21 when Richard suffered a fatal heart attack. We are all still reeling but will gather in Wisconsin in early May for a loving celebration of his life. Learning to navigate life without him is an unwelcome challenge. On the brighter side, John and I are loving our Ranger Tug, Water Music, cruising out on the Chesapeake Bay. This April we will go on our first Viking cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest. We will sail with friends on Lake Huron in September. John is knee-deep in his photography. We are pretty healthy and for that we are grateful. Let me know if any of you pass through Annapolis or D.C. I would love to see you. Cheers."

SHREVE SIMPSON and her family enjoyed a lovely summer vacation in Portugal and spent October in Madrid with her husband, Richard. In January, she delivered the 2025 Yarshater Lectures in Persian Art, a four-part series, at the University of London, School of Oriental and African Studies.

SUSAN KINTNER CORPSTEIN

writes: "I just celebrated five years since I was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma. At the time I was diagnosed on 2/14/2000, I was told the average life expectancy was 3-5 years. I have just made the 5 years and would like to make another 5 years. I was diagnosed late since my GP knew nothing about Multiple Myeloma. My story mirrors Tom Brokaw’s regarding late diagnosis. My husband and I are still living in Columbia, South Carolina about 20 minutes from my daughter, Laura, her husband, Eric, and their son, Cole. Cole is 14 and just made the JV Tennis team. He is a computer

nerd and a real sweetheart. He built his own computer from scratch. I can no longer travel due to lack of immunities. This weekend, I am going to Pawley’s Island Beach about 2 1/2 hours away. It is my first trip out of Columbia since I was diagnosed. I am so glad I traveled to Europe before I was diagnosed.”

CAROLYN BROSIUS ANDERSON

writes: "We are fortunate that the whole family with our six grandkids live in the area. A highlight for this past year was a trip to the South Pacific, including the idyllic island of Moorea. South Pacific was filmed there on our cousin’s property. Our daughter and husband were brave enough to travel down there with their little ones (ages 3 and under) to join us. We also traveled through France with Duke alumni and were moved by the contrast between the beauty of the countryside with its medieval villages and the tragedies that France has endured throughout history. I loved the chance on these two trips to revive my French after so long. Meanwhile, on the home front, I’m enjoying participating in a pro bono legal advice clinic.”

JOAN LOWDEN DONNELLY writes: "I don’t have a lot of news other than Tom and I retired and moved to Rehoboth Beach, Delaware in 2020. We renovated the house we inherited from my parents and love living here. Lots to do even in the winter months. If anyone comes to the Delmarva area, I would love to see you."

Joan did go to Sara Ewing Davis’s funeral in St Michael’s.

CAROL WILLIAMS BENCHLEY writes: "Winter months have been taken up with the unsheltered here on Nantucket. It’s been a cold one, making it even more important to provide shelter. We did manage to spend Christmas with our great friends in Brittany. Probably spent two hours

in Notre Dame on route. Thought a lot of Miss Brown while there. The restoration is extraordinary. I was planning another escape this spring, but am in line with all the other Boomers awaiting a knee replacement. Hopefully, I can get it done before summer."

ANNE L. HOWARD-TRISTANI

writes: "The most exciting news this year was the birth of our first grandson, Anthony Goettsche Tristani, on January 4, 2025, son of our eldest son, Dennis Ray Tristani, Esq. and his wife Emily. During 2024, my husband Dennis and I enjoyed spending time visiting our adorable 3 ½-year-old granddaughter, Isla Rose. We also spent time with our second son, Wiliam, and his wife. In late February 2024, we traveled to Austin, Texas to visit my nephew, Dr. Dan Howard, M.D., and his family as well as to babysit our granddaughter, Isla Rose. I was also able to visit CHRISTY CARPENTER and her partner, Robert in February 2024 and we all had dinner together at Christy’s home. In July 2024, we also traveled to Seattle, Washington, to visit our daughter Christine (a.k.a Tina) who’s pursuing her M.A. Degree online in Conservation Biology & Natural Resources.

During 2024-2025, I also continued my ongoing work on my Oral History and future book project about my late Mother, Frances Humphrey Howard, and my late Uncle, former U.S. VicePresident and senator, Senator Hubert H. Humphrey (HHH). In September 2024, I spoke to the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellows at the American University Washington College of Law (AU-WCL). And, in October I spoke to all 150+ HHH Fellows at the 2024-2025 Annual Global Leadership Forum of the Humphrey Fellowship Program, sponsored by the State Department to give a brief history of my late Uncle’s life and legacy.”

MARGIE ADDISON SHEPARD writes: "In November (2025) a friend and I are taking a Viking River cruise from Prague to Berlin with stops in Wittenberg, Dresden, Meissen, and Potsdam before ending in Berlin. Very excited to see this new part of the world."

BESS WALSH DETMOLD writes: "My daughter Hilary and her partner Dan were married Mother’s Day weekend 2024. The venue was a wonderful Boston indie bookstore. Hilary’s law school classmate who introduced them officiated. They preferred ice cream with first scoops to a cake. Hilary wore a tea-length dress. After the wedding, she dyed it blue. Last news I mentioned a big origami project. I was asked to fold origami centerpieces for the tables. We settled on a floral globe with three variations designed by Japanese artist Tomoko Fuse. Then I had to have carpal tunnel surgery three months before the wedding. The bride got a bit worried and was considering flowers, but two of my origami friends each folded four of the globes, leaving a manageable six for me. The origami community is very generous. The centerpieces were about soccer ball size, each one folded from 60 rectangles in shades of purple."

CHRISTY CARPENTER writes: "I’m thrilled to report my film, Shaking It Up: The Life & Times of Liz Carpenter had its public television premiere throughout March on public television stations across the country. The film previously had its worldwide premiere at South By Southwest last year and has been featured by nine other festivals since, winning awards at two. Additionally, I’ve screened the film and conducted talk-backs at dozens of venues in Texas and Washington, D.C.. When American University’s Center for Women and Politics hosted a screening, fellow Holton alums MARGARET WARNER, ANNE

ANNE L. HOWARD-TRISTANI with randdaughter Isla Rose Tristani, daughter Tina, son Dennis and wife.

BESS WALSH DETMOLD and family at daughter Hilary’s wedding. Son Todd and partner Carolyn on the left with Hilary and son-in-law Dan.

L. HOWARD-TRISTANI, ANN

DOUGLAS CORNELL ’71, and JOAN

DOUGLAS MURRAY ’71 (a contributing producer), joined the festivities. I hope my classmates will stream the film on PBS.org or PBS Passport if you missed the broadcast."

BETSY WHITTAKER writes: "In August I spent a wonderful week in Aruba with my son and his family. Both grandchildren (ages 4 and 7) swim like fishes, and I was able to get the older one snorkeling. In October my sister and I hiked the coast of Portugal for a week. If you’re interested in a supported hike, check out MacAdventures. Here at home in Vermont we’ve had snow at last. After a couple of winters of very little snow we’ve had a great season, and I’ve been enjoying the fabulous crosscountry skiing. I’m off to Spain soon for 10 days, and then it’s golf season here in Brattleboro. I’ll be serving my final year as president of the golf club. Also, I’ll be one of the representatives from my district at the town meeting in March.

SUSIE COLE WEAN writes: I took a trip through the Panama Canal and to Cartagena. My grandparents met on a ship going to inspect the canal in 1905. I also made a move from a condo in Palm Beach to a house in West Palm Beach. I took a trip to the United Kingdom and the Faroe Islands for my 75th. I’m now doing reconstruction on

our house in Pittsburgh after 46 years. In October 2024, I assisted with the ribbon cutting of the new Susanna A. Jones Learning Commons at HoltonArms School. It’s a wonderful new space. I’m planning a cruise from Rome to Barcelona via Sicily, Malta, Tunisia, Sardinia and Corsica. Then a visit to Valencia, The Alhambra and Madrid."

CHRIS MILLER LEAHY writes: "On Tuesday, March 11, I spent the morning at Holton, visiting classes and touring the new Learning Commons, which holds so much more than just the library, even a coffee and snack bar. It was Trustee Visiting Day, and Trustees Emeriti (which is what I am) were invited. I had not been at Holton during a school day in many years. Much is very different from when we were there, of course, but also quite different from when my daughter was there in the 90s. One of the first things I noticed were the cell phone “lockers” - columns of narrow shelves where student phones reside during the school day. I visited two classes that clearly would not have been offered in our day - Middle School Chinese and a class for seniors on Protest Literature of the Sixties (we were living that during our college years.). That class was reading “The Autobiography of Malcolm X”. I also visited an art class in the Lower School, which was a real treat for me to be back where the boarding school rooms were located.

I was so pleased to see that the girls were already learning art history with an emphasis on women artists and some Holton history, as well. The third graders were creating portraits of Mrs. Holton in the style of Frida Kahlo. I enjoyed my conversation with the new Head of School Penny B. Evins, who is friendly, energetic, and clearly has a great rapport with the girls. I heartily encourage all classmates to get in touch with Anne Shannon, Development Associate for Alumnae Giving and Engagement, if you are living or visiting in DC. She would be happy to arrange for you to tour our amazing campus.”

ANNE TWEEDY TIFFANY writes: "I had a great year in 2024. I’ve now lived in Roanoke, Virginia for almost 12 years. This is where my two children settled and I have so enjoyed watching my four grands, ages 8-12, at their school concerts, and sports activities, and simply interacting with each other. In May, I went to Iceland with 30 people from the Roanoke Ski and Adventure Club. It was not the right time of year to see the Northern Lights, but we had a wonderful guide who led us for 8 days around the ring as she explained so much of Iceland’s history, geography, and geological features: volcanos, geysers, waterfalls, tectonic plates, icebergs, as well as their horses and wildlife. In October, I went for a week with three of my college friends to see the red rocks of Sedona, Arizona as well as the Grand Canyon. In August 2025, I plan to go to Scandinavia, again with the RS&A Club. I pray each of you stays happy and healthy until it’s time for me to ask for more news. Stop by anytime you are in the Roanoke area."

1970

After our 50th Class Reunion was on Zoom, due to the Pandemic, our 55th Reunion, just concluded, was the big one. And the school treated us as if it

ANN DOUGLAS CORNELL ’71 and JOAN DOUGLAS MURRAY ’71 join CHRISTY CARPENTER ‘67 ’s screening of her film at American University.

were our 50th. From a fun class lunch on Friday, and meeting some of the class with whom we were pen-pals 5 years ago, to a fabulous visit to the National Museum of Women in the Arts (with a docent-led tour, and then Winton sharing back stories and showing us some behind the scenes spaces of this museum founded by her mother-in-law, Wilhemina Holladay) and a class dinner with a Trivia Contest, complete with Holton swag as prizes, on Saturday, to a fabulous 3 course brunch at La Ferme on Sunday with classmates, the entire weekend was a blast. In fact, it was so much fun that at the brunch, KATHY MINSCH suggested we not wait 5 years to get together again. We agreed with her idea to have another reunion in 2027, two years from now. So please plan to come.

The Holton-Arms 1970 group on Facebook is private—no one sees the posts except classmates. Even if you are not normally on Facebook, feel free to create a private profile, and join our

group. There you can see photos from the weekend, and hear more about it. You will have to be admitted to join the group, and only members of our class are admitted. Any member of the group can post.

BARBARA J. ANDERSON described herself as a former English Teacher, actor, director, and theatre manager, together with her husband Ed Kueffert. Barb was thrilled to make it to Reunion.

DEBBIE CAMALIER-WALKER writes: "Our 55th Reunion was fantastic. Our friendships have sustained me over the years, and they have renewed me this weekend. Now – more than ever- ‘Find a Way or Make One’."

NANCY NOVICK writes: "I hope everyone who gathered for the 1970 reunion had a joyous time together sharing happy memories. Here’s sending love from The Netherlands (where I have been living for the past

NANCY NORTON BUCKLEY, HELEN MOORE MILES, MARGOT MAHONEY BUDIN, STEPHANIE KENYON BEEHLER, LYNDA MERSEREAU ELLIOTT, IDA ASHBURN COOK, MARNY ALLEN MCCAIN, DIANA COBB ANSLEY, SUSAN FOGARTY ARZT, DANA MARTENS

50 years). I recently retired from teaching English to students focused on hotel and hospitality careers."

I just came back home from South Africa and a safari with Nancy's son, who is a safari guide there, and his wife. I have a daughter living near her in the Netherlands and I’m a doting grandmother.

PENNY TATEM SIMON was unable to come to Reunion at the last minute, but writes: "I’m still with JPMorgan Chase, going on my 35th year. We left the beach in Florida a few years ago after 27 years and moved to Dawsonville, Georgia, to be closer to our kids and grandkids. We are enjoying the change of scenery and mountains, although we are still beach people at heart."

CATHY WILLIAMS SULLIVAN had also planned to attend Reunion, but a last-minute illness prevented her from coming. Cathy has had a career in Journalism, lived in Paris for 10 years, and recently has been focused on restoration of classic houses, from structural work to interior design of the restored homes.

JANET WHITLOW CLOVER writes: "After having lived in Florida for 43 years, George and I sold our house on Ft. Myers Beach and moved to Hendersonville, North Carolina in April of 2022. We gave up water for mountains and are loving it."

MEG DWORSHAK WAITE writes: "I’m still having loads of fun with kiln-fused glass. I have a studio in my home. I have given lessons to friends and neighbors here in Virginia Beach."

KATHY MINSCH writes: "I have been enjoying retirement since early July 2021, after over 35 years of government service in all aspects of restoration and protection of marine

and freshwater coastal ecosystems. I am currently training for a 7-day trek on the Beara Way peninsula in Ireland. Last Spring, I visited friends in D.C. to celebrate the 50th year of contradancing at Glen Echo Park Spanish ballroom. For me, it was 40 years ago since I started contradancing, then evolved to swing, lindy hop, and other partner dancing – a major source of joy in my life."

MAUREEN CERNY AULL It was her first reunion since graduation; She had a blast. She writes: "After graduating from the University, I decided to visit Alaska. Once there, I decided to stay a year. Then one year became 40. I met my husband in 1988, and in 1990, we started our video production business. We had an awesome and interesting career. In 2017, we moved to Sedona, Arizona. In 2023, Stuart died. Thankfully, Sedona brings me great joy. Have lots of friends and sports activities to keep me busy. In Spring, I can ski in the morning and play golf in the afternoon. I ALWAYS count my blessings."

WINTON SMOOT HOLLADAY

shared that she has been living in Washington in the same home since 1981, spending summers in Delaware. Married to Hap for 51 years, 4 kids, 9 grandkids. Two daughters attended Holton ( ’97 and ’99). “Our first granddaughter will be entering 7th grade in Holton in the Fall of 2025. My love of art history started at Holton and fortunately has been a part of my life 5 decades later with my involvement with the National Museum of Women in the Arts.” Winton – we thank you for arranging for our tour at no charge at the museum, for all the stories you shared, and for all you do there. We hope to return to the Museum at a future reunion.

JEAN PARKER PHIFER writes: "Tom and I have two sons, William, 35, and Thomas, 33. I am working as an

architect in New York City, specializing in historic restoration projects, including stained glass windows."

GINGER RAMAGE ROSS updated us that she is the Mother of 2, Grandmother of 5, and a Retired Special Educator. Her father, Vice-Admiral “Red” Ramage, was recently honored posthumously as a Massachusetts Medal of Honor submariner recipient.

JENNIFER HOWLETT sent an invitation with her update: "I am living very happily in the Berkshires, Massachusetts. I would love to see anyone who comes through, especially in the cultural summer season –Tanglewood, the Clark, Willamstown Theatre Festival, etc. Jennifer is retired after years working with IBM."

SUSAN CARTER OLDRIEVE writes: "I retired in 2022 from 36 years of teaching English at the University level, and for 6 of those years served as Associate Dean of Humanities at Baldwin Wallace University. Den leader for my grandkids. 3 children, 8 grandchildren, ages 3 to 21. Active in the Episcopal Church. Seven years on the Board of Directors of La Leche League International. Hobbies –gardening, sailing on Lake Erie and the Rehoboth Bay, travel."

CINDY HOWAR, JD, is a realtor with Washington Fine Properties LLC since 2009 (and previously with Long & Foster). Cindy also studied art and architecture in college, earned her Juris Doctor from Georgetown University Law Center in 1983, and is a member of the bar in Washington, D.C. and California. Among her many professional ventures, Cindy served in health care and telecommunications for the Clinton/ Gore administration, and later was a managing director of health care at Potomac Strategies International. She also has a website – Cynthia Howar Fine

Art – and pursues her artistic passion primarily in watercolors.

LISE COURTNEY HOWE has a daughter, LISE COURTNEY D’AMICO ’12, who got married in Miami in November 2024, surrounded by her classmates from the Holton 2012. A few parents of her classmates, including another Holton alum, also came to Miami. Lise is also a realtor, and she writes that she is “still working and spending my spare time with my children and grandchildren. Lots of trips planned to see them.”

1971

PHILIPPA ALDERTON writes:

"Currently living in Western New York, and happy to hear from neighbors. I will be attending the Pennsic War, as I have for the last 30 years. Its near Pittsburg, and I would also love to meet and greet any SCAdians wherever we are. You may add “Blacksmith” to your list of professions by Holton Alumnae. Been doing it for over 30 years. Still going my own way."

1972

MARNY ALLEN MCCAIN writes: "In addition to taking on the challenges of learning how to play bridge, I decided to try bowling. And quickly found it to be challenging, unlike our Holton outings to River Bowl on River Road. Of course, the best part of those outings was the ride on the bus. Was George our bus driver? Other than that, I am very lucky to have classmates nearby and we get together for walks, coffee, bowling, and occasional dinners."

From IDA ASHBURN COOK and DIANA COBB ANSLEY: Diana and Ida, both painters, met up in January at the National Gallery in D.C. to see the exhibit “Paris 1874: The Impressionist

EDITH PETER’s artwork was in an exhibition at the Tacoma Park/Silver Spring Meals on Wheels. Edie displayed some fantasy acrylic paintings such as this one she did of her high-rise apartment building, its rooftop landscape and a dragon flying over.

Moment”. This outing was all the more special because, in 1974, we had by chance met up in Paris at the Centennial Impressionist Exhibit. Ida had arrived in Paris to find a line so long that there was no hope of getting in, but then noticed, at the very front of the line by the entrance, Diana. She of course graciously let Ida join her in line. So, we have been enjoying art together for many years.

Some classmates shared how their Senior Project had a significant impact on their future. The Class of 1972 should be so proud that we were the first senior class to launch the Senior Projects program. ROONEY WADDEN PECK headed a committee that presented the idea and saw it through. Certainly, we and the following 53 senior classes are most grateful for this committee’s perseverance in making sure that this great idea became a reality at Holton.

LYNDA MERSEREAU ELLIOTT writes: "When I began volunteering in the Park Service Office on weekends in the winter of my senior year at Holton, Wolf Trap was a quiet place. A single Park Service employee and I worked out of a small, one-story building on-site answering phones

and giving tours on request of the newly constructed arts center. My Senior Project built on this experience, and every day I saw changes in anticipation of a summer season full of events. As construction continued and I served as an usher for some of the programs, I felt both enthusiasm for the growing popularity of this venue and a sense that this project was far bigger than I had ever imagined. I preferred the quiet, open air of the park and being on the cusp of something new, but I also learned about having confidence in being able to create a position where one didn’t exist before – I had simply called up the Park Service office and offered to volunteer. I have carried that lesson with me for the rest of my life."

NANCY NORTON BUCKLEY writes: "I have been teaching Spanish and ESL for nearly 50 years. My Senior Project gave me my first taste of teaching. I haven’t regretted a moment and still love the thrill of the light bulb moment when my students “get it”."

MARGOT MAHONEY BUDIN writes: "I have the fondest memories of my Senior Project working with LAURA BRUNDRED REED* on a huge transportation exhibition –Transpo ’72 – at Dulles Airport. It increased my interest in aviation, which was key to my later working with former air traffic controllers, in my position as Chief Financial Officer of a government contracting firm. The commute to Dulles was much easier in 1972."

IDA ASHBURN COOK writes:

"My Senior Project at Holton—May 1972—was an internship at the Smithsonian American Art Museum, and it convinced me to study art and become an art teacher. First day there, I helped take down a Winslow Homer watercolor exhibit, and I then worked in all the different

divisions—archives (wearing white gloves, I wrote descriptions of Roman glass vials from Egypt, a recent donation); in a studio I learned the art of etching and aquatint, (my prints were featured in a Holton 1972 magazine), and helped organize a show by building platforms and panels to display the art. The Education Department was my home base. We put together a show of local D.C. public high school artwork, going to every downtown school to collect the paintings, drawings, prints and sculpture. I learned so much in those visits about the difference a teacher can make in an art program, and decided I wanted to do just that as I set off to college."

ANN SYMINGTON SOUDER writes:

"I assisted the art teacher in all the classrooms at Gibson Island Country School for my senior project. The month-long experience confirmed my dream of teaching art. I majored in Art Education at Stephens College, Columbia, Missouri. A week after graduation I was hired to teach art to 8th - 12th graders at Queen Anne School, Upper Marlboro, Maryland. I absolutely loved my job, the students and to top it off that is where I met my future husband who was the school’s business manager. I continue to keep in touch with many of my students all these years later."

SUSAN FOGARTY ARZT writes: "I thoroughly enjoyed my Senior Project as a teacher’s aide in an elementary classroom at Sidwell Friends School. This experience inspired me to take multiple education classes in college and then later to work at Concord Hill School in Chevy Chase, Maryland. I have been associated with this school since 1989 when my oldest child enrolled as a student and then in 1994, I began my tenure as an administrator for just over 30 years. My Senior Project did indeed positively shape my future."

1973

My sister, DEBORAH “DEBBIE” SMITH THOMPSON, Holton-Arms 1973 passed away on August 10, 2024, in Mill Valley, California. Her devoted husband, Roderick Thompson, was by her side. Reported by her sister PAMELA SMITH SCHERER, Holton-Arms 1977.

MARY JOHNSON FLETCHER wrote that she is living full-time on Keuka Lake and is loving retirement and spending time with her 7 grandchildren. Their daughter, Liz, lives in Buffalo with her 3 children (a girl and two boys) and their daughter, Celi, (2 boys) and their son, Buddy, (boy and a girl) live near each other outside of Syracuse so they are close to them all. Bill is still working but cutting back on his work-load so he can fully retire very soon. They traveled to Baltimore to see the Buffalo Bills play and then to Houston with Celi, Liz, and Buddy this

fall to see the Buffalo Bills play again and had a great weekend.

KATE MONTAGUE PERRY writes: "After a glorious month cruising around Sicily, we headed to Paris for the 2024 Summer Olympics. Very exciting to cheer on our athletes for a month of events… not to mention Paris’ many marvels."

MERIDA WELLES reports that they are just back from their 3rd winter in Spain with their two rescue dogs. They plan to go back to Cantabria next winter (the most beautiful place they have ever been to).

MANDY RICHARDS VOGEL

MCCARTNEY writes: "I celebrated my 70th in September with a magic show at my home with my sons and their families. Another highlight was a visit from Pandy in Nashville where her daughter, Mollie, lives. We toured the Country Music Hall of Fame Museum and saw the Roseanne Cash exhibit. I have enjoyed listening to JULIA LOUIS-DREYFUS’ ’79 podcast “Wiser Than Me,” which is a series of lively and engaging interviews with older famous women who have lots to offer. Holton hosted an alumnae luncheon in Nashville. It was a kick to meet a few women who were at Holton on S Street and a few younger women who were at Holton after I graduated."

1978

WENDY DWORSHAK PULLANO

writes that 2024 was a special year for her family with her daughter Mary, the oldest of five children, getting married to Patrick Butcher, a Bethesda native and graduate of Georgetown Prep, where they both are currently teachers. Kerry, the youngest, started medical school at the University of Maryland School of Medicine in Baltimore. Kerry was

an EMT at the Cabin John Volunteer Fire Department for six years where she became friends with BREYER BANFIELD ’17.

1979

Things appear to have been rather quiet since our 45th reunion last spring, with many writing that they have little news to share. To quote SHARON POMERANTZ COLLINS, “no exciting news…life is status quo.” In the big scheme of things, that may be a good thing. After a similar statement, KENDY MONTOURI DE PAOLI mentioned she experienced two back-to-back hurricanes in St. Petersburgh, Florida last fall.

There is one bit of sad news—LAURA BRISKMAN, who thankfully attended our last reunion, passed away late last Fall 2024. She attended Holton from Grade 4 through Grade 10 before graduating from Walt Whitman High School in Bethesda. She completed her studies in psychology at the University of Maryland and earned her certification as a financial para-planner at the College of Financial Planning in Denver, Colorado. She worked in retail and was a long-time office manager at Greystone Servicing Corporation (loan servicing, commercial real estate, etc.) in Rockville, Maryland. More recently her love of animals led her to A Place for Rover in Frederick, Maryland among others, where she used her behavior modification certification, CPR, and first aid skills to serve as a pet sitter and dog walker. Always well dressed and smiling, she was someone who could really listen. I enjoyed visiting with her at our reunions every time.

JAN ABRAHAM writes that Laura loved her own dogs Izzy and Lexy very much, and she enjoyed walking other people’s dogs. “She had a heart of gold. She never wanted anything in return.

KATE MONTAGUE PERRY and Husband Cookie in Paris

She was always very thoughtful— remembering me on every birthday and at Christmas with gorgeous cards. Whenever DANA EDSALL visited D.C., which was once or twice per year, the three of us would get together for lunch or dinner.”

SUSAN VAN DEVANTER writes: "I came to Holton in 7th grade, and Laura was one of the very first classmates that I met. We bonded quickly and became very close friends. I spent countless weekends at her house. She was the oldest of four children, and I always felt like part of the family. Growing up as an only child, I loved having four ‘siblings’ and being so welcomed by them. Her parents, Lenore and Robert, were like a second set of parents to me. One of my favorite memories is playing ping pong with her father, Robert. The other kids in the family were not as passionate about ping pong as I was. Laura was a perfect friend. Positive, smart, empathetic, inquisitive, fun loving, witty, and always there for me. I attended the small memorial service that was held for her in early December and it made me reflect on our friendship of 50+ years. I am devastated that she is no longer with us—a life snuffed out too soon. However, her spirit will live on forever and I will always cherish all that we had.”

We extend our sympathy to Laura’s family and the many friends she has left behind.

DEBBY MOCHWART writes between work and other life realities, “we managed to sneak in a few concerts during the year…we went to Bruce Springsteen with SUSAN VAN DEVANTER and her son Jack and we went to James Taylor with CATHERINE HEMENWAY

SIEWICK ‘77 (another Holton graduate and JOYCE HEMENWAY WILLIAMS’* sister.). We are

looking forward to this year…lots of family (and “like family”) weddings lie ahead.”

Since retiring, PATTIE CLARK and her husband live a relaxing life in Shenandoah County, Virginia. They traveled for a month to visit her sister-in-law in a warmer climate over the winter. They also welcomed their first grandchild, Evening Nieva Pinales, who was born in July 2024. Congratulations, Pattie.

TRACEY MCCLURE LAHOUD also retired from serving as a journalist, broadcaster and producer at the Vatican’s Media Center in Rome. She is funneling her energies into a lakefront Airbnb in Trevignano Romano on the shores of Lake Bracciano north of Rome. The lake is of volcanic origin and features medieval towns and a large castle on the hillside. You can find more at this link: Airbnb.com/h/ casettadilauratrevignano. Tracey can be reached at traceymcclure@yahoo. com for a discount to anyone wishing to visit. Reunion, anyone?

SARAH BEETON CAPEL’s granddaughter Frances Fields Baldridge was born in December 2023 to Sarah’s daughter Elizabeth and her wife Grace. Frances and her parents live in the Los Angeles area but were able to escape the recent fires. Meanwhile, Sarah loves her work as a director of the North Carolina Institute for Spiritual Direction and Formation, a non-profit whose mission is to assist individuals and congregations in spiritual growth. “I’m a trained spiritual director, following my late-in-life master’s degree from Duke Divinity School. [It is] never too late to find your life’s calling.”

STEPHANIE HARRIS APPLEBAUM writes about her grandsons, ages 3 and 1, living in Illinois, and her granddaughter, age 1.5 years, living in Kensington, Maryland. “All three of

MANDY RICHARDS VOGEL MCCARTNEY and PANDY RATHBUN ALLEN at the Grand Ole Oprey.

MERIDA WELLES with her son and his girlfriend.

Rick, Kerry and WENDY DWORSHAK PULLANO at Kerry’s University of Maryland Medical School White Coat Ceremony.

our sons and two daughters-in-law are doing well. We’re in the same house in Illinois we’ve been in for 34 years so surrounded by good friends and fun things to do in retirement. We are currently working on some travel plans for the coming year and will be celebrating our 40th wedding anniversary.” Stephanie remains on the Board of Directors of the Homewood Science Center. She also enjoys working out at several gyms and coordinating a pickleball group—”cliche senior citizen.”

PAMELA COLE writes: “I’m the proud possessor of two new knees. Best thing I have ever done. I am still working as a local antiques appraiser and I work at a local auction gallery, The Potomack Company, in Old Town Alexandria. I have no thoughts about retiring. I love it.” Pamela’s son Edward (Landon, 2013) lives in Brooklyn with his delightful fiancé, Marlene."

CHARLOTTE HANSTAD is adjusting to life in Des Moines, Iowa. She is working within the local Women’s

Club, is involved in her church, and is working as a childcare teacher assistant at the parish school. Charlotte is looking forward to returning to the Washington, D.C. area for a visit in the fall after she recuperates from knee surgery.

DEIRDRE REYNOLDS JONES is the Chief Administrative Officer at NOAA. She expresses her sincere thanks to everyone for their kind expressions of sympathy after the death of her mother, Mildred Reynolds, last year. “I am finally coming out of a year-long fog,” she writes. “My niece, Rebecca Beavers, daughter of KIERSTIN REYNOLDSBEAVERS ’82, joined my Sorority Graduate Chapter and regularly joins me at chapter meetings.” Rebecca is currently a graduate student at George Washington University.

VIRGINIA MACVEIGH COOK and her husband Brian are still living in London. They anticipate returning to Nashville, Tennessee, where they will

retire, sometime in the next year. They have purchased a retirement home there and spent the last Christmas holiday with their daughter, Ellen, son, Kelly and Kelly’s daughter Leven (age 11) there. The whole family plans to meet in London over the summer.

ANNE C. ARMSTRONG is the Chief Historian for a global agency at Ft. Meade. She writes: “I just love being a military historian. I am now officially retired from active duty flying for 20 years which was an odd bridge to cross, but I had a wonderful career doing that. During Covid, I wrote a book that wouldn’t interest a soul but can be found at https://vernonpress. com/book/1214.” As of this writing, Anne adds that she has not (yet) been terminated in a government reduction of forces. She is hoping that she and her colleagues at Ft. Meade will be retained, due to their combat support mission.

Finally, a big thank you to LORI CAMALIER and her army of local classmates who hosted our reunion party. It was fun, lovely, yummy and wonderfully therapeutic. Thank you for such a great time.

1981

KERI LYNN KAPUS BUSH writes: "I’m retired five years now and am enjoying it. Being a litigator provided me with a decent paycheck but also a LOT of stress and not much personal time. At first, it was hard quitting “cold turkey.” I enjoy working and I enjoy the law, but practicing law was a whole different story. I began volunteering with various organizations (e.g. Girl Scouts, our county elections office, and a domestic violence center) and that seems to have quelled any work “voices” in my head. I tried tap dancing, recently joined a community choir, and am trying my hand at crocheting. I

Class of 1979 reunion

also love to travel, but work really prevented much of that. Anyone who is Facebook friends with me knows how much I adore autumn. No apologies for the inundation each year of fall foliage photos. As a result, I have made it a goal in retirement to experience that lovely season in a new place each year. So far I’ve traveled Skyline Drive in Shenandoah, wandered up the Maine coast, and traipsed over the cobblestones in Old Montreal. Hopefully this year I will be seeing some fall color in Europe. I try to get back east at least every other year to visit family and try to see as many Holton friends as I can when there. If you are ever in Southern California and would like to get together I hope you’ll reach out."

CAROL O’NEILL writes: "I am still living in St. Louis and still miss having a few old friends near me.

MARY DANFORTH STILLMAN is the only classmate and our conflicting lifestyles enable only the occasional hikes/walks in the park, though of course these are treasured.

We made the decision to sell our big fancy house this month. Nothing fun about downsizing to a townhouse but it was the right thing to do. I am still working full-time and traveling to faraway countries like India and exciting domestic destinations like Green Bay. It is interesting and challenging work though I admit to feeling my age after the long flights. I had an awesome mini-reunion with a handful of Holton folks in December 2023 and it was a reminder of how overdue I was to get back to Maryland. My mom (alive and kicking and living alone at 93 is in St. Inigoes, Maryland and I visit her when I can, but have no “home” near Bethesda so it had been close to 40 years since I had been there. I keep swearing that I will make it to a reunion – maybe by next year – 45?! Would love to see anyone if they venture to this “flyover

state”. Even in the downsized world, we have extra bedrooms, just no more pool."

RAHEL CROWLEY writes: "After 10 excellent years in the Bay Area, my husband Greg and I are trying life in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida where we’ve become “snowbirds.” Our kids live in New York City and Washington, D.C. so our furtive plans to see them more (yay for direct flights and being in 1 time zone) have worked. It also seems that mild winter temps also make us popular with friends from high school, college, and various hometowns. Innkeeping is seriously busy and intense, but definitely provides a fun opportunity to catch up with long-lost friends. We escape the sweltering summer heat by returning to our California cottage between June and September. Here in Florida, I am a docent at two local museums and volunteer at Birch State Park which is a stone’s throw away between my house and the beach. Given my addictive personality, I’ve thrown all remaining spare time into improving my bridge play. Masters rowing has been supplanted by contract bridge and trying to scale the challenging points ladder; I am determined to have “Life Master” on my tombstone. I encourage anyone to look into their local ACBL chapter and jump on the bridge train for keeping the neuropathways firing and active. I started up piano lessons again too for my brain health. I remain envious you classmates who have become grandmums—it looks so dreamy to watch your kids have kids. Yikes, we are in our 60s."

GAINES FINLEY HURDLE writes: "I’m still living in Potomac with the husband, three dogs, five chickens and periodically one or both of my 20-something boys. The boys are so much more fun to have around now, and really useful. The oldest is a wildland firefighter who drops out of helicopters. No clue where that came

from and it gives me both night sweats and a closer relationship to prayer. The youngest is out of college and still hasn’t figured out his passion. I’m constantly pivoting back and forth between “go get a real job” and “take the experiences as long as you pay your way, 9-5 will come”. I say all this because I still feel the pressure of the sandwich. I’m grateful to still have my Mom, Cissy, with us but boy the guilt when I parked her in the high end “retirement” home down the street. And it doubles down when a few days pass and I haven’t seen her. It’s a miracle but I’m still married after 32 years. I lucked out with Ken, we put up with each other in the valley’s and love each other to pieces in the peaks, but dang, marriage is hard work.

I’m working harder than ever at my interior design business and really loving it. When I first started I really was uncomfortable about the seeming frivolity of it. But over the years I come to realize what a gift it is when I have had the opportunity to turn a house into someones home and sanctuary. What’s even better, no two are alike and the creativity and partnerships with my clients are enduring."

SALLY COLCLOUGH ALEXANDER ‘51

is whispering in my ear. So much of the foundation of Holton is still with me. I know this isn’t our major Reunion year but so many of us still live relatively close. We should get together more often. Women of our wisdom are such a braintrust for each other.

1985

BEA SPATES DE LANNOY writes: Things are going well for us. On August 31, 2024, my eldest daughter Caroline got married here in Belgium to Henry de Spoelberch, so that was a very joyful occasion. HATTIE CROYDER BUCHHOLZ and LAURIE

HAVENER HUNSICKER came over as well and toured around Belgium a bit. Caroline and Henry are living and working in London. Louise, Antoine, and Maxime are all doing well in their lives and their studies at university. I also went on a fabulous trip to Djibouti and Ethiopia from January 5 to 30. My friends and I were in Lalibela for the epiphany ceremonies of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church and also saw monasteries, rock-hewn churches, the endemic gelada primates in the Simian Mountains, the extraordinary Dallol hydrothermal area, which is one of the remotest areas on earth, and we camped on the flanks of the Erta Ale Volcano and visited its chimneys spewing forth steam and lava, and a number of tribes of the South Omo Valley. Jehan and I founded a flower farm cooperative two years ago, so that, and many other projects keep us very busy. He is still a practicing lawyer in Brussels.

At the end of March, I met up with several friends and classmates in Lugano, Switzerland, where we spent some wonderful time together.

SANDY MARRIOTT BERTHA writes:

"My husband Al and I are serving a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Ghana, Africa for a year. It has been a wonderful experience. The people in Ghana have soft hearts and they love the Lord. They have hundreds of different Christian churches and billboards, schools, hospitals, and slogans on the back of their transportation that all point to Christ. They are loving and so approachable. We have been working with 165 young missionaries who are here serving for 2 years from 38 different countries around the world. Meanwhile, at home, our 8th grandchild is due in June. This is a great season in life. I am really sad about missing the 40th reunion. I would love to see each of your faces. I for sure will be there for 45."

ALLISON BRODY writes: "I continue into my new career of private philanthropic advising. As a trusted private philanthropic advisor, I help individuals and families clarify giving priorities, make gifts that matter, and get purpose, fulfillment, and joy from their abundance. I hope to help move money out of donor advised funds (DAFs) and into the world, which so desperately needs it right now."

CARINA ROTSZTAIN ROSSNER

writes: "I’m ‘medically retired’ after a couple of TBI accidents and breast cancer in the last five years. I’ve rebuilt a life focused on making art (www.carinarossner.com), singing in a chorus that performs world folk music, cycling the countryside here, and abroad, reading with a couple of book clubs, swimming while listening to dance tunes from the 80s/90s, Burning Man, volunteering, and generally trying to enjoy life as much as possible. My goals are to travel more (reunion.) and expand the network of galleries that carry my artwork, I would appreciate leads. Parenting has shifted from mother bear advocate through medical and educational systems to cheerleader. I’m super proud of my kids who have overcome huge challenges and continue to persevere. My daughter settled in D.C. after George

Washington University and hopefully still works at EPA as of this publication. My son can fix anything and works on the BestBuy Geek Squad in San Jose. Hardest lesson has been that I can’t push on a string - patience isn’t my forte - always thought that the Holton motto was Find a Way or Make One UP."

ALETA MARGOLIS writes: "My nonprofit, Center for Inspired Teaching, has launched a campaign to make Curiosity the word-ofthe-year in 2025, in response to Merriam-Webster’s announcement that the 2024 word was polarization. I invite all our classmates to sign up for Inspired Teaching’s year long Curiosity Challenge. It’s free, and it’s filled with activities and resources to strengthen your curiosity and help bring us all a little closer together."

KAREN RAPLEY writes: "I am enjoying my role at Pebblebrook Hotel Trust and living in Bethesda. One of the highlights last year was a trip to Japan with my sister…an amazing experience. I also have been rediscovering my love for live music, and I’ve been taking advantage of catching concerts in D.C. and in other parts of the country including seeing Foo Fighters (twice), Billy Idol, Madonna, Billy Joel, Bruce

BEA SPATES DE LANNOY, LAURA HAVENER HUNSICKER, NICOLE ZUNGOLI, and HATTIE CROYDER BUCHHOLZ in Lugano Switzerland.

Springsteen, Bleachers, and finally going to HFStival last September at Nats Park. I’m looking forward to more concerts in 2025."

1988

KIRSTEN NAEGELE FLAHERTY is still living in Sonoma, California – 45 minutes north of San Francisco in Wine Country. She can’t believe it’s been 27 years. She writes: "My husband and I have been empty nesters for a couple years now. Our youngest, Sean, will graduate from UC Berkeley in May but then will continue on to get his master’s in architecture. Our oldest, Catherine, lives in D.C., so it’s been fun to return to the area again. In August she’ll move to London to obtain her master’s in public policy, so across the pond we will go. And our middle, Lauren, lives in San Diego and has been thriving in interior design. I have been a Project Manager with my travel and concierge company now for almost 10 years. We continue to love where we live."

NICOLE KOBRINE is excited to share that her twin girls Kaitlyn and Cali are freshman at Holton. They are really enjoying it. This winter they played varsity basketball for Holton and are playing varsity softball in the spring. Her son is a senior at Georgetown Prep and is off to Dartmouth College in the fall. He committed to play basketball for the Big Green. Nicole is still a partner at Katten, a Chicago-based law firm and practices real estate and construction litigation. Her husband, Paul Garrett, is a consultant.

ALISON CLINE EARLES writes: "Same house (in Atlanta) same spouse (John) for coming up on 30 years.” She and John are empty nesting with their wonderful dog Juno while their daughter Katie works in Seattle. Their son Joe has been in Portland, but is relocating to Philadelphia. Alison continues lawyering for the Georgia

Municipal Association and is doing some exciting work supporting a new occupational PTSD and disability benefit for first responders. She is also the lead privacy and security attorney. After reading Atomic Habits last year, she took her guitar off the wall where it had been gathering dust since 2008. She is now able to play four or five cord songs and has published six of her “Sing the Bible” songs on Ultimate Guitar. Alison wrote about 30 songs in 2005, maybe one day they will be published or sung by someone other than her family–if anyone wants to help, reach out. This April, Alison celebrates 16 years following a food plan (with the help of a food addiction 12 step program) to treat her addiction to refined carbohydrates and cheese and other high fat foods. It is such a miracle to be craving-free one day at a time. She is happy to chat with anyone about her journey."

Alison is active in her church, St. Luke’s Episcopal, and is the vice president of the chapter of the Daughters of the King. She gets to wear a lovely cross and is enjoying being in an allwomen group regularly. Alison would

love to connect with anyone who is coming through Atlanta and sends much love to all.

BETH COLLINS SPAUR writes: "I hope all is well with you. I am still living in Las Vegas and will be celebrating my 25th wedding anniversary in September. While I am still a lawyer by day, I am working toward leaving that behind and writing full time. My 10th romance novel will be released by the end of April and I am hoping #11 will hit the stores before the end of the year.

In January 2021, MICHELLE MORRISON JONES decided to return to school for her Master’s degree in Clinical Counseling at Denver Seminary. In January of this year she opened her private counseling practice based in Parker, Colorado, where she specializes in grief counseling, anxiety management, and relational dynamics. She has the opportunity to integrate her personal experience of loss–having lost her first husband in 2016–with professional training to support others on their healing journey. In 2022, she remarried a

JULIE GOLD, ADELINE VUYLSTEKE VANDERVER, MEGHAN AGRESTO, Julie’s husband Adam, her daughter MAYIM ’30, and new puppy, Willow.

JAMIE COOK SIMON ’95, ELIZABETH JACOBS TUFF ’93, MANDI BOEHLY SCHMAUCH ’93, LESLEY COOK DEFREES ’85, celebrating JENN COOK MCDONNELL ‘93’s birthday in March 2025.

TAURA SMALLS, BRIDGET KENNY, MELANIE CORCORAN AND MARTA BORINSKY celebrating Melanie’s 50th birthday.

wonderful man named Stephen, and together they have a blended family of six children. She thoroughly enjoys this season of life with her family as she watches her three young adult children thrive in their areas of interest, including fly fishing, guiding, and psychology, while also raising her youngest son, who is still in high school. If you are in the Denver area, please feel free to reach out.

1992

After 10 years at the University of Georgia, HOLLY SMITH LYNDE joined the Georgia Opioid Crisis Abatement Trust in August 2024 as their Executive Director. Over the next two decades, the Trust is responsible for distributing more than $1 billion in settlement funds the state will receive from dozens of companies involved in the opioid crisis. To be able to bring healing, hope, and prevention to millions of impacted Georgians is truly an honor. Just before starting her new job, Holly’s twin girls went off to college. They are both at Georgia Tech. Julia is majoring in economics and international affairs and Madelyn is majoring in psychology, and both joined Alpha Chi Omega sorority. Holly and her husband, Grant, are adjusting to being empty nesters and enjoying more time for pickleball.

JULIE GOLD is the writer and co-producer of “The Other You,” her award-winning feature film about parenting, partnering, and the exhaustion of carrying mental load. The romantic momedy (hey, why not invent a genre?) film premiered in February at the DC Independent Film Forum. If you’d like to host a movie club, virtual or in real life (it’s like a book club, but instead of people pretending they read the book, folks can watch this short feature film and discuss it), contact Julie at juliegold1@ gmail.com. More festivals and broader

distribution are in the works. Peek here for updates: https://tinyurl. com/3bbdaksv. Julie was also chuffed to participate in Holton’s Women in Power summit in April.

JULIE GOLD, ADELINE VUYLSTEKE VANDERVER, and MEGHAN AGRESTO recently reunited in D.C. last March. They try to do this annually and this year included a viewing of Julie’s movie. They were joined by Julie’s husband and her daughter, Mayim – a member of Holton’s 2030.

MEGHAN AGRESTO is still living in Corolla, North Carolina, and is happy to report that both her boys are fine – rural life having turned them into boating, hunting, construction, welding-loving folks. Meghan is wrapping up a $2.1 million capital campaign for the Water’s Edge Village School, the charter school she co-founded. These funds will go towards the new 3-classroom building that will operate in conjunction with the 1890s 2-room schoolhouse the school has occupied since 2012. All Holtonite’s are welcome to check it out when visiting the Outer Banks.

MALIKA CLINKSCALES recently moved to Salt Lake City, Utah, to take a new position as the Vice President of Faculty Mentor Strategy at Western Governors University. She is excited to be the first to take on this role, responsible for the strategic direction of over 2,000 mentors/coaches that support WGU’s 180,000 students.

CRISTINA BURBACH joined the Department of Justice in August 2022 as an attorney in the Office of the Chief Information Officer in the Executive Office for United States Attorneys. Essentially, she manages or advises on various legal aspects of the technology that federal prosecutors rely on. It’s a demanding but really fun and rewarding job – perfect for someone

fluent in both law and tech. Outside of work, Cristina was diagnosed with young onset Parkinsons disease in early 2023. While not the greatest news, she has found some amazing silver linings. As it turns out, competitive distance running is one of the best ways to halt the progression and control the symptoms. Since early 2024, Cristina got her national paraathlete classification, won her division at the Boston Marathon, and also set the 1500m national record for her classification. She’ll be running the Boston Marathon again this year as a professional para-athlete and hoping to defend her title. Everyone asks her if she can go to the Paralympics. The answer currently is no – she is a middle/long distance runner and the Paralympics only offers sprinting distances in her Women’s T36 classification.

MELANIE STOER writes: "I’m doing well down in Raleigh, North Carolina. I’m excited to be one the newest artists selected to create handcrafted art for the gift shop at the North Carolina Museum of Art. My first big collection was floral-inspired candleholders and ornaments to accompany Art in Bloom, the museum’s largest and most popular annual event."

1993

JESSIE NATHANSON recently came to Connecticut from Bethesda to visit with MANDI BOEHLY SCHMAUCH and help with the final pieces of building her chicken coop in Wilton, CT. Mandi has retired from corporate America and is an estate manager when not tending to her family, her husband Bill, high schoolers Tanner and Liesel, or her flock of chickens. Jessie and Mandi also visited SUSIE FARHANDI HAYES who recently purchased a second home in Litchfield, CT, and is enjoying weekend escapes from

MEREDITH FAY CARPENTER's daughter Eva Mary Carpenter.

LAUREN KATKISH SHAW's son, Harrison John Shaw.

RACHEL BURKES LERMA's baby girl, Leah Marie Levy Lerma.

SOPHIE WECHSLER's son, Sawyer Wolf Davidson.

AMANDA NOVAK HEWITT's son Theodore “Teddy” Martin Hewitt.

GAVIN TAYLOR BLUE's daugher Virginia Joan Blue

MITRA HAERI's son Kayvon Lucas Haeri Watts.

VERONICA LEONARD LEBLANC's son Lenny.

Brooklyn with her husband, Martin, as much as possible. We had a lovely afternoon in the country and were joined by JENN COOK MCDONNELL and ELIZABETH JACOBS TUFF

Jenn recently ran the New York City Marathon and is training for several marathons in 2025. Jenn and her husband Bish live in Greenwich with their three daughters, Paige is at college, Mimi is a Junior in high school and Blake is in 8th grade. Liz lives in New Canaan, CT with her husband Alex and their children Oliver, at college, and Adelaide and Eloise in high school. The CT crew is blessed to still be so close in distance and friendship after all these years and loved having Jessie visit.

NIKKI SINGH writes: "We are in the Bay Area now since 2014. Had the chance to see VERONICA VALDIVIESO in London last summer and spend Christmas with JOANNE SEINSHEIMER at our home as she lives in the Bay Area too."

ROCHELLE WIRATUNGA writes: "I’m doing well living in Rockville, Maryland and teaching special ed students in a high school in Bethesda. I have also been keeping up with my piano and teaching elementary-aged kids after school. I will be seeing some of our classmates soon. I’m met up with AMELIA HUGHART BLANKE and NICOLE GEORGE DE PINEDA in Miami and the Florida Keys in April for a spring break trip."

2001

JENNIFER SILVERS is still living in Los Angeles with her husband, Jason and three children, Eloise, Sebastian and Theodore. She just celebrated her ninth year of working at UCLA.

FARIZA IBRAHIM writes: "I am celebrating 10 years at Amazon Web Services as a Senior Contracts

JENNIFER ALBINSON ’01’s newest addition to the family was Noah Jones Cohan, born on Monday, April 8, 2024. Big sisters Whitney and Harriet are delighted, and as parents, they are likewise delighted that he’s been an extremely sweet and happy baby!

Manager. My husband and I keep busy shuttling our three kids around to various activities but if anyone is around Arlington, Virginia or Rockville, Maryland and wants to meet up for a coffee, be sure to reach out."

MEREDITH GROBAN CONTE has been working at The Nakupuna Companies, a Native-Hawaiian Owned family of companies, for almost 3 years now as their Director of Contracts & Procurement. She lives in Lake Ridge, Virginia with her family: husband Jahleel, daughter Liv, and recent addition Josephine, born in June. Joining them is their dog Mr. Milo, who came into her life 17 years ago. Life is chaotic and our last family vacation was well over a year ago.

2003

MEREDITH FAY CARPENTER writes: "On Thursday, May 9, 2024 my husband Steve and I welcomed daughter Eva Mary Carpenter. She joins older siblings Gia, almost 6, and Cyrus, 3. We have been living in Silver Spring, Maryland for four years now

JENNY SOFFEN MARKS' son turn one on December 14, 2024.

MEREDITH GROBAN CONTE's husband Jahleel, daughters Liv and Josephine.

Ted Zagraniski. She was recently promoted to Associate Chief of Staff at Public Interest Registry.

SOPHIE WECHSLER writes: "My husband, Scott Davidson, and I, who were married in Park City in 2023, welcomed our son, Sawyer Wolf Davidson on Friday, March 7, 2025."

LIZ WILKES SINGH writes: "My husband Dhruv and I welcomed our son Cosimo on November 23, bringing us to a family of 5 with Emilia (5) and Serena (3). I’m still running my workplace wellness company, Exubrancy, and have also started a (free) group called Broadway Social for NY if folks are interested in investing in and/or attending more theater."

welcomed their second baby, Amin Rami Iqbal Akram, on July 12, 2024.

BRENNA SPINGLER writes that she SARAH STRICKLAND KORN, GRACE GOLDSTEIN, and ERICA BILLIG ROSE got together in Sarasota, Florida with the kids for a long weekend in the sun.

This past year I, AUTUMN HURLEY was lucky enough do to some traveling including to Australia in September where I met ANISHA JINDIA ‘07, who has lived in Sydney for several years now. We reminisced about the Holton Chorus trip to Australia where we were roommates.

after stints in Ohio and Arkansas. I have been working for Children’s National since 2020."

2004

RACHEL BURKES LERMA

welcomed a baby girl, Leah Marie Levy Lerma on Tuesday, January 28, 2025.

LAUREN KATKISH SHAW had son, Harrison John Shaw, who was born Thursday, Ocotber 28, 2024. They are moving from Minneapolis to Denver this summer.

JENNY SOFFEN MARKS writes: "Charlie Soffen Marks joined our family on Thursday, December 14, 2023. We’re still living in New York City on the Upper West Side. I’m still working at Google and Harrison started a new venture capital fund called Commonweal Ventures this past year. Henry goes to the JCC Nursery school."

ELIZABETH HARWOOD

ZAGRANISKI now lives in Reston, Virginia with children Henry (8) and Isabelle (5), and husband

AMANDA NOVAK HEWITT welcomed baby number three, Theodore “Teddy” Martin Hewitt, on Thursday, August 8, 2024, joining big sister Grace (8) and brother Henry (5). She is staying busy between the three and her residential real estate business, having recently moved with the Carolyn Homes Team to the TTR Sotheby’s International Realty brokerage on Bethesda Row. She’d love to help fellow alums with their real estate sale or purchases.

2006

MITRA HAERI and husband John Watts had a son, Kayvon Lucas Haeri Watts on December 24, 2024. Big sister, Parisa is really stepping into the role.

Mitra also saw a lot of Holton friends over the last year including at daughter Parisa’s 2nd birthday, seeing HANNAH WINKLER open for band, Jukebox the Ghost as well as GENNY DELEON’s baby shower.

NOOR IQBAL and her husband, Mussadiq, and daughter, Alia,

I also travelled to Dubai with CAMILLE STANBACK where we met KAMILAH LESTER who flew in from Brussels for a lovely girls trip.

TERI HOFFMAN is celebrating a nontraditional milestone, she is getting a divorce. She moved from Dupont to Adams Morgan in December 2025, and ended up moving into the same building and floor as a close friend from college, so they are now living our best sitcom lives and can wear our slippers to each others’ apartments. Teri spends her time outside of work playing tennis and doing ceramics. She is the (untitled) COO of a 100-person team at Deloitte that designs and facilitates workshops for executives and their teams. She has mostly stepped back from facilitation to focus solely on making our internal operations run smoothly.

2007

AMANDA BRESLER testified before the House Committee on Small Business Subcommittee on Economic Growth, Tax, and Capital Access on April 16, 2024. Her testimony contributed to the subcommittee’s examination of the impact and effectiveness

LIZ WILKES 04 and husband Dhruv welcomed their son Cosimo on November 23, 2024.

of the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program on small businesses and military readiness.

VALERIE GRASSO DORSEY is enjoying family life in Atlanta, Georgia with children Oliver (2) and Louis (4).

LUCY WEST GURLEY gave birth to her third child and second daughter Eleanor Catherine Gurley. She joins her older sister Annie Grace and older brother Walker.

SASHA LEVINE STURMAN

BERGERON launched her own private practice as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. She is seeing patients across the DMV providing integrative psychiatric care. She is enjoying life living in Kensington with her husband and two children.

BARBARA WEI lives with her husband and two year old daughter in Chicago, Illinois. She is expecting baby number two this summer. She continues to work with USA Table Tennis as the Media/Marketing Lead and was part of the US Delegation to the 2024 Paris Olympic Games in the

role of Press Officer. She also works with the Harvard Initiative on Health and Homelessness, supporting its faculty chair Dr. Howard Koh (former Assistant Secretary of HHS, under Obama).

BROOKE MONAHAN and Brendan Lemieux welcomed their first child on Monday, March 3, 2025 in Davos, Switzerland, where Brendan plays hockey.

LAUREN ZOLTICK and her wife, Caitlin, welcomed their second child, Levi Goldie Payne, in November. She also went on tour for her podcast, Exes & O’s with Shannon Beveridge, and sold out Howard Theatre in D.C. Supportive classmates and friends KELLY THOMPSON CORDISCO and STEPHANIE ROBINSON WATSON bought a booth for the show.

SONAM RAJPAL is living in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband. They recently welcomed a daughter, Naya, and are enjoying all the baby snuggles. She is working in the fashion/ecommerce space for Alo Yoga, which she is passionate about.

2008

MELANIE HERSON married

Matthew Nicholas on Friday, May 10, 2024, after meeting during COVID in October 2020. They got married at The Box House Hotel in Brooklyn, New York where they currently reside.

ALYSSA GAGARIN and her husband

Greg live in New Jersey and Alyssa is the owner and founder of Meal Prep Chef, which operates in New York City.

MEGGIE TWIBLE married her partner, Caleb Westberg, in May 2024, and they welcomed their daughter, Ellis Magnolia Twible, in August 2024. Meggie also opened her own somatic therapy practice, Homecoming PLLC, in Spring 2025.

and

Australia.

AUTUMN HURLEY ’06

ANISHA JINDIA ‘07 in

A mini HAS reunion at MEGGIE TWIBLE’s wedding in Chicago.

2010

KHAKI MARTIN and her husband Jacob (and their beagle Daisy.) moved back to the D.C. area, where she continues to work and share wellness experiences as a sound healer, reiki master and meditation guide. They’ll be doing a year in Seattle starting in July, before returning to D.C. next summer.

ARIEL COHEN and her husband, Brendan Bordelon, welcomed their first child, Noah Cohen Bordelon, on January 11, 2025. The family resides in the Capitol Hill neighborhood of Washington D.C. Proud Aunt ALISON COHEN ’13 lives just a mile away and is always making up an excuse to stop by and spend time with her nephew.

GAVIN TAYLOR BLUE and Ty Blue (Landon ’10) welcomed their daughter, Virginia Joan Blue, on November 1, 2024.

MEGAN GARDNER STEWART and her family relocated from Florida back to Canada and settled in Calgary. They were lucky enough that Rhys’ favorite Uncle, Alex Poon, and his wife Gabi came out to celebrate their first Christmas in their new home.

VERONICA LEONARD LEBLANC and husband Tyler welcomed their first child, Leonard (Lenny) Alan LeBlanc on Monday, September 16, 2024.

2012

RHEA CHUNG writes to share a picture taken at her most recent studio recital held on April 26, 2025. She is proud to share that she now has four Holton students in her studio. It is one of her greatest joys both personally and professionally to teach each of these young women, and be part of the village it takes to nurture a true Holton spirit.

2013

After finishing her M.S. in marine biology, last july EMILY LUCAS moved to Colombia, where she is learning welding.

As part of ISABEL CABEZAS’ work at the European Parliament, liaising with celebrities from all 27 Member States to encourage voter participation in the 2024 European Elections, she attended the Cannes Film Festival. In July, Isabel spoke on a panel in Dublin about youth engagement and perspectives on the year of elections, across the US, EU, and UK.

CAMILLE STANBACK and KIMMY FEINSTEIN were among the attendees at a birthday party for MITRA HAERI's daughter.

ARIEL COHEN and her son Noah Cohen Bordelon.

ALYSSA GAGARIN with her husband Greg and their daughter Dalton.

VALERIE GRASSO DORSEY ’07 enjoying family life in Atlanta, GA.

ALEXA GOLDMAN ROGERS married Ben Rogers on April 6, 2024. She celebrated alongside several Holton girlfriends.

Members of the Class of 2019

BELOW: Members of the Class of 2019 in New York City: ELIZABETH ZAMPELLA, ELLA GLASSMAN, ANNIE HOLM, STEPHANIE HONG, VIRGINIA ASHER

2014

Graduating from medical school with honors in May 2025, MADELEINE HYDE received wonderful news on National Match Day, March 21. She was selected by her first choice for her residency in Neurology...Case Western Reserve University Hospitals, a world renowned hospital system in Cleveland, Ohio. Madeleine will be moving to the Cleveland area in mid-May as a newly minted doctor, to take the next step in her medical career journey.

2015

After receiving her BFA from NYU Tisch School of the Arts, SINCLAIR DANIEL started acting professionally in theater at Williamstown Theater Festival, The Alley Theater in Houston, and The Shakespeare Theater Company in Washington D.C.. Sinclair went on to star in films and television series including Insidious: The Red Door (Sony Pictures/ Blumhouse), and The Other Black Girl (Hulu). She can next be seen in the upcoming James Wan & Simu Liu produced series for Peacock slated for early 2026.

2016

MADDIE SLACK is looking forward to moving to a mini-farm and attending vet school at Virginia Tech. She hopes to specialize in emergency medicine. Along for the ride are her partner Alex, and their 3 dogs. HALEY BUTLER is embarking on an exciting new chapter as a participant in the Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme. This prestigious initiative, sponsored by the Japanese government, offers young professionals the opportunity to live and work in Japan for at least a year.

ALEXIS LEMONE graduates from Wake Forest University School

ABOVE:

RIGHT: KAYLA COVINGTON and former head of MS TONY SHAWE in Paris.

of Medicine in May 2025 and is set to begin her residency in Orthopedic Surgery at Virginia Commonwealth University.

On her trip to Paris, KAYLA COVINGTON had an unexpected run in to former Head of Middle School, Tony Shawe.

2017

SAMANTHA NOLAND just won best graduate thesis award in the fiction category at the American University Visions Awards for her Capstone film entitled “PeoplePleaser” which stars Holton alumna AISLING MOCKLER ’20. Samantha graduated with her MFA in Film and Media Arts in May 2025. Samantha went to Iceland to the Reykjavik Global Forum for Women’s Leadership with Running Start in November. She recently returned to Holton to speak at the Women in Power for Good Summit and is rounding out her first full term on the Alumnae Board. She’s in development for her first feature film entitled “Unrequited” and is about to go to France for the Cannes Film Festival.

MARYAM GILANSHAH moved to the US earlier this year, continuing her work in a new position at her company, as Production Coordinator for a 3D conversion post house. When she’s not missing the UK, she enjoys watching film, visiting friends across the US, and journaling. She recently got to see her name in film credits for the first time.

CAITLYN JOHNSON is now living in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania where she’s working in an orthopedic surgery research lab. In between applying to medical schools, she spends her time fostering dogs and training for a half-marathon.

RINNIE HEWLETT is in her fourth year PhD, studying microbiology. Earlier this year, she submitted her first paper for publication. Outside of school, Rinnie sings in a queer choir, The Philadelphia Voices of Pride.

2018

KATERINA SOLTANY writes: My update is that I’m currently a 1L (’27) at Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University in White Plains, New York and am planning to complete the environmental advanced certificate.

TALIA BARTLEY writes: Living in New York with Holton roommates. We are having a blast “finding our way or making one” becoming adults and living in a new city. Have finished up a training program at Sotheby’s in New York and will be starting law school in the fall.

KATE GUSEK writes: I’m currently in my second year of physician assistant school at Charleston Southern University and will be graduating this coming December.

2020

PASCALE SCHMIDT graduated last December from Northeastern university with a B.Sc. in Biology. The commencement ceremony was in Fenway Park in May 2025. She expects to complete all requirements to graduate with a M.Sc. in Biotechnology from Northeastern by August 2025. She then plans to move to New York City and attend Mount Sinai’s Icahn School of Medicine in the M.Sc. prePh.D program in Biomedical Sciences, with a concentration in immunology. Pascale is grateful for the coop opportunities of working in the labs of KSQ Therapeutics, Moderna, and Sanofi during her studies at Northeastern.

ISABEL CABEZAS encouraging voter participation in the EU elections in 2024

RHEA CHUNG with students FLORENCE L. ’30, CLARA X. ’35 NIAMH S. ’29 and REYNA S. ’31

SINCLAIR DANIEL

In Memoriam

VICTORIA JENKINS ’33C, 1997

SARA CAVE TAYLOR ’38C, 4.7.2023

MARY DYER CORRIN ’40C, 2014

BARBARA MENNINGER SACK ’42C, 1.22.2025

SUZANNE “SUZI” FITZHUGH COOPER SMITH CIRCA ’42, 3.20.2025

JEAN OAKES DOERSCHUK ’43, 2008

CYNTHIA BURRESS DOLVIN ’43C, 4.23.2025

LEE LORICK PRINA ’43C, SEPTEMBER 2024

STARKE PATTESON MEYER ’44, APRIL 2024

ELIZABETH ‘BETTY’ FAHRION STEELE ’44C, 2023

JEAN HESTER WALLACE ’44, 1.5.2024

ALWILDA "GIBBY" FERRIS DEMATTEO ’46, 2.5.2021

CORNELIA LANGER NOLAND-REIS ’46, 12.27.2024

ELEANOR “PHYLLIS” EVANS HAMEL ’47, 1.7.2025

CARLYN RING ’47, 1.15.2025

JOANNE DUPONT FOSTER ’48, 4.20.2024

PRUDENCE LEHANEY CLEARY ’48C, 2022

HELEN BOWDOIN SPAULDING ’48C, 2016

FRANCES JARRELL ADAMS TIPTON ’48C, 9.30.24

LIBBY MAYBANK WRIGHT ’49, 8.1.2024

HARRIOTT MEANS JOHNSON ’50, 4.16.2025

FRANCES DILLARD JAMES ’50C, 11.7.2024

JANE MCSPADDEN GENETTE TWIST ’50C, 1.16.2025

RUBY SLOAN HOPE ’51, 3.29.2025

BETSY MILLER SAYLER ’51, 8.26.2024

MARY LOU KING WOLLMAR ’51, 2.7.2025

DIANA DESTINE SANDEFER DENMAN ’52, 4.17.2025

JEAN BROMBERG LATHRAM ’52 ’54C, 3.18.2025

MARGOT WALKER HUMPHRIES ’52C 7.7.2023

ELIZABETH LANGHORNE SHEWMAKE (WOODROOF) JOHANNESSEN ’52C, 3.18.2025

BEA HENSHAW WERNER ’52C, 3.26.2025

NIKKI HAYWARD WILTSHIRE ’52C, 1.24.2025

GEORGIANNE SYLVESTER ABBIATI ’55C, 10.24.2024

ELIZABETH BARNES COVELL ’55 ’56C, 5.2.2025

SOPHIE MARSHALL NICHOLSON ’55, 6.23.2024

SALLY WADE TOMLINSON ’55, (PRE-2019)

NANCY BRIGGS MITCHELL ’56C, 11.11.2024

PAMELA CALDWELL FOGGIN ’57, 9.10.2024

KAY KAUFHOLZ JEWEL ’57, 11.10.2024

SHARON STONE KILPATRICK ’57, 5.28.2024

KATHERINE “KATHY” RAWLINS SPARKS ’57, 6.30.2025

ANNE HAVARD LITCHFIELD ’57C, 2.19.2025

CAROLYN DEE NASH BATES ’58, 1.21.2025

BETTY ANN DASHER CROVATO ’58, 10.20.2024

JULIA MORRIS FORD ’58C, 10.23.2024

SALLY DUSBABEK HOLLOWAY ’58, 3.22.2025

KITTY CARTER NELSON ’58, 10.18.2024

MADELEINE DUNCAN HUGHES ’59, 11.27.2024

DEEDEE MECHLIN DRISCOLL ’62, SEPTEMBER 2024

STEPHANIE “STEVIE” EWALT COLEMAN ’63, 2.12.2025

SUSIE WERBER HILL ’65, 2.9.2025

ROSEMARY WARNER SEAWELL ’65, 10.22.2024

SARA EWING DAVIS ’67, 12.26.2024

LISSA T. MOHLER ’68, 8.7.2024

BETSI VOGEL FAKLER ’77, 1.18.2025

JOANNA MARMARAS PEDAS ’83, 5.29.2025

SUZANNE MITCHELL ’86, 12.6.2024

TERRA DYER GILL ’98, SEPTEMBER 2024

MARY MAHER, FORMER FACULTY, 5.7.2025

THE LAMP OF LEARNING HONORS AND RECOGNIZES INDIVIDUALS WHO HAVE INCLUDED HOLTON-ARMS IN THEIR ESTATE PLANS OR HAVE MADE A PLANNED GIFT TO THE SCHOOL.

LAMP OF LEARNING MEMBERS ARE FORWARDTHINKING DONORS WHO HAVE MADE KNOWN THEIR CORE VALUES AND TRUST IN THE MISSION TO BENEFIT FUTURE GENERATIONS.

If you have already named Holton-Arms in your estate plans – thank you! Please inform us so we that we may thank and recognize you. If you are interested in learning more, please visit https://holtonarms.plannedgiving.org/ or contact NINA GILMAN P ’07, ’09, Gift Officer, nina.gilman@holton-arms.edu or 301-365-6057