ALUMNI NEWSLETTER
DIRECTOR’S LETTER
DearAlumni,
I hope you enjoyed a restful and joyful summer with family and friends. As a new school year begins at ISB, I am excited to share with you some of the wonderfulopportunitiesaheadforourcommunitytoreconnect.
This fall, we look forward to alumni gatherings in different parts of the world, seeingpeoplereminisce,sharestories,andcelebratethefriendshipsthatmake ISBsospecial.
We are also very excited that we will be hosting the second edition of ISB Summerfest in June 2026, which will also mark the launch of our 75th Anniversary celebrations. It promises to be an unforgettable reunion on campus,bringingmanygenerationstogether.
AhighlightofthisyearwillbetheClassof2000ReunionduringHomecoming–suchanincrediblemilestone!Atthesametime,wewarmlywelcomeallalumni back to campus for Homecoming, a moment to celebrate our school spirit, reconnectwitholdfriends,andcreatenewmemoriestogether.
AswehonourISB’shistoryandlooktothefuture,Ialsowanttotakeamoment to highlight the impact of the Annual Fund. Your generosity fuels ISB’s four strategic pillars: personalised learning, excellence in teaching, expanding opportunities beyond the classroom, and fostering inclusion. We are deeply gratefultoallwhohavealreadycontributed,andIwarmlyencourageothersto joinusinmakingalastingdifferencefortoday’sstudents.
I look forward to seeing many of you at one of our upcoming events and to celebratingtogethertheenduringspiritofISB.
Withwarmregards,
JamesMacDonald ISBDirector
ISB NEWS
Thursday, 28 August, marked the first day of school of the 2025-26 academic year at ISB, and it was wonderful to see everyone back on campus, reuniting with friends and teachers alike!
Our school mascot, Loup, was out in full spirit to welcome students, filling the day with smiles and energy We were especially excited to see all the familiar faces and new students starting their ISB journey.
CLASS OF 2025
A special shoutout to the Class of 2025! We really miss having you on campus this year!
Wishing you all the very best in your next adventures, and we hope you’ll stay connected with the ISB community!
SeewhereourClassof2025 isheadedto!
ISB NEWS Campus Improvements Over the Summer
While students and teachers were taking their well-deserved summer breaks, our campus has been buzzing with improvements! From fresh paint and renovated spaces to playground upgrades and even a brand-new athletics track, the CST team worked tirelessly to make sure everything was ready for the start of the year. We can’t wait for you to see the changes in real life!
NEWISBWEBSITE!
We’velaunchedournewwebsite!
After months of hard work, we’re excited to share our brand-new website with you! It’s fresh, easy to navigate, and designed to better showcase our community.Takealook,wehopeyouloveitasmuchaswedo!
Here’stheALUMNIWEBPAGE!YoucanfinditunderMyISB.
ALUMNIVISITPOLICY
We love welcoming alumni back to ISB, and it’s even more special when you bringyourfamilyalongtosharetheplacethatmeantsomuchtoyou Tomake sure your visit is smooth and memorable, we’ve put together a simple Alumni VisitPolicy.Giveitaquickreadbeforeschedulingyourvisitsowecanbeready towelcomeyouproperly.
Ready to come back? Just fill out this form and let us know when you’re droppingby.Ourreceptionteamwillconfirmyourvisitviaemail!Wecan’twait toseeyou(andyourlovedones)backoncampussoon!
ALUMNIEVENTS
Location:BrewDogSevenDials
Time:18:00
RSVPHERE
Location:Bierfabriek
Time:18:00
SAVETHEDATE SUMMERFEST
13JUNE2026
Markyourcalendars! ThesecondeditionofISBSummerfestwilltakeplacein June2026,andthistimeitwillalsomarktheofficial kick-offofISB’s75thAnniversarycelebrations.
Itpromisestobeanunforgettablereuniononcampus, bringingtogethergenerationsofISBers.
We’llalsobecelebratingmilestonereunionsforthe Classesof2016(10years)and2021(5years),whata momenttohonourtogether!
RSVPinformationwillbesenttoyouinthenextfew weeks.Pleasestaytuned!
AlumniVoices
JoshWeiner,Classof2010
Born in Brussels, Josh spent seven formative years at ISB before studying at Tufts University and earning a Master’s in Education at UMass Boston. Now a World History teacher outside Boston, he still draws on the international outlook and French he gained at ISB, skills that help him connect with his students, many of whom are Haitian and benefit from his bilingual skills. His fondest memories include trips to Florence, Normandy, and the Côte d’Or chocolate factory!
Hisadviceforstudents:DiveintoFrench!ISB’s opportunities to learn across subjects in Frenchwillstaywithyouforlife,n’hésitezpas!
MarionSheridan,Classof1974
Arriving at ISB as a junior was a big adjustment for Marion, her first major move, and she missed her friends back in Chicago. But by senior year, she had found her place on the volleyball and basketball teams and built lasting friendships. After ISB, Marion studied at the University of Illinois and the University of Washington, later moving to Alaska to teach before settling in Olympia, Washington, where she raised three children. Now happily retired, she credits ISB’s inspiring teachers with sparking her passion for education and giving her the confidencetothriveinanyenvironment.
Her advice to today’s students: Go for it! ISB’s teachers are extraordinary, and their dedication will staywithyoulongaftergraduation.
AlumniVoices
Flavia,Classof2022
Raised in Italy until age 12 and then in Belgium until18,FlaviadescribesherISByearsas“pretty cool”, especially after attending local Italian public schools. From laptops and beanbag chairsinclasstohavingherownlocker,ISBfelt like stepping into a movie! She credits the school’s system with preparing her for international learning. Some of her favourite memoriesincludeaColourRunonthelastday ofsenioryear!
Flavia’s advice to current students: Join sports, go to Prom and Homecoming, and make the mostofeverymomentatthisincredibleschool, theseareyearsyouwon’tforget!
PhyllisDraper(formerlyMayes)
PhyllisatendedISBintheearly1960s,duringGrades57. Born in California, her schooling journey took her from America to Turkey, The Hague, and finally England. Reflecting on her time at ISB, Phyllis fondly recalls the Château, the teachers, and the camaraderie with her mostly American classmates. “BestschoolIeverattended,”shesays.
HerearlyexperiencesatISBhelpedheradapteasilyto newenvironments,askillshecarriedintohercareeras a secretary in various countries Among her treasured memories are winning first prize in Grade 5 and the bittersweetfarewellswithfriends
Her advice to current students: “Study well and form meaningful relationships with classmates, even if they seemdifferent,itpreparesyouforlife”
MENTORSREADYTOHELP
HandHahne(Classof1970):RetiredMcDonald’sfranchiseewith45 yearsofbusinessexperienceintherestaurantandhospitality industry.Strongfocusongoodbusinesspractices.Offersguidance onhospitalitycareers,techniques,businessinsights,andindustry opportunities.
GiuliaKobia(Classof2019):Politicsgraduate(Netherlands) andHECParisMaster’sinEconomicsandFinance.Internship experienceatTotalEnergiesandinconsulting;currentlyworks atA&Minsportsconsulting.Bringsinsightintonavigating indecision,industrychanges,applications,andCVs Happyto adviseonpathways,opportunities,andcareerplanning.
RogerWachtel(Classof1980):BSandMSinEducation HighschoolEnglish teacherandcoachfor42years,authoroffournon-fictionhistorybooksfor youngpeople,andlong-timeteacher-mentor.Offerscareeradviceand guidanceforaspiringeducatorsorin-serviceteachersseekingmentorship.
Arthur-Adrian Nagels (Class of 2020): Pace University graduate (BA in Art + 3 minors). Former MET intern, Best Buy top salesman, and Sony representative. Experience in video production (Super Bowl projects, Abu Dhabi billionaire client). Part-ownerofBultBlockchain,currentlyBrandAmbassadorat Davidoff of Geneva Offers guidance on fast-tracking academics, networking, sales, and turning adaptability and confidenceintoopportunitieswithglobalbrands.
MENTORINGNOTICEBOARD
MENTORSREADYTOHELP
Sue Gedrych (ISB Maths Teacher 2009-2011): Experienced senior manager and technical project manager in manufacturing, with expertise in team leadership, resource management, and project finances.AlsoaformerISBmathsteacher.Helpsyoungpeopleorganise careergoalsanddiscoveropportunitiesinmanufacturing.
Stuart Chalin (Class of 1982): Therapist for over 20 years, with a background in clinical social work. Began his career in his late 30s after varied jobs and life experiences. Offers support and career advice in therapy, clinic work, private practice, and navigating personalandprofessionalchange.
ChrisStrimbu(Classof1993):UXleaderatGooglewith9+yearsinoneof theworld’slargestdesignorganisations.Experiencedinmanagingcareers in big tech, exploring AI’s impact on design, and weighing the pros and consoftechcareersinarapidlyevolvingindustry
Jessica Mellor (Class of 1991): Biotech professional specialising in drug development across all phases, with expertiseinProgramandAllianceManagementandlicensing agreements with large pharma Mentors those interested in biotechcareersortransitioningintoprogrammanagement.
MENTORINGNOTICEBOARD
MENTORSREADYTOHELP
Makoto Fukui (Class of 1992): Real estate investment and finance specialist with nearly 30 years’ experience, including roles at Mitsui Fudosan (Japan) and Schroders (UK). Offers career advice for those interestedinglobalrealestate,particularlyinJapanandtheUK.
Alessa Candon (Class of 2025): Recent ISB graduate (IB score 39),currentlyonagapyear.Activeintheatre,sports,andclubs while at ISB, now offering tutoring in ESS, French B, Theatre, and English. Helps current students balance academics with extracurricularsanduseISBresourceseffectively.
Nekane Medrano Cuetos (Class of 2018): Biochemistry graduate with a master’s in human assisted reproduction. Passionate about reproductive medicine and eager to share insights into embryology, fertility treatments, and career opportunities in this growing field Offers guidance to students curiousaboutbiomedicalsciencesandlesser-knownstudypaths.
MENTORINGREQUESTS
Carolina Dantas (Class of 2024): Undergraduate student in Economics and Finance with a strong interest in policy making and internationalrelations.Seekingadviceonemployability,traineeships, andcareerpathwaysininternationaleconomicsorpolicyfields.
CallingAlumniinSportBusiness!
Are you working or pursuing a career in Sport Business? The BTEC Sport team is looking to connect with alumni and community members to share their experienceswithcurrentstudents
Your insights into sports business, from technological advancements to customer engagement, can help inspire and guide our students Whether through virtual Q&A sessions, sharing case studies, or contributing to project-based learning, your involvementwouldbeinvaluable
Interested?Filloutthisformtogetinvolved!
ANNUAL FUND
A legacy of excellence, a future of opportunity
As an ISB alumnus, you know that ISB’s exceptional education goes beyond academics It’s about fostering curiosity, innovation, and global connections that last a lifetime The experiences, friendships, and lessons from ISB have shaped who you are today, just as they continue to shape thenextgenerationofstudents
Join us in shaping the future of ISB
Join us in shaping the future together! We can ensure that ISB continues to lead in education, to nurture well-rounded individuals, and to make a lasting difference in the world. By contributing to the ISB Annual Fund, you play a vital role in helpingusfulfilourmission. CLICK HERE to explore all
Thank you for your support. Your generosity inspires us to dream bigger and achieve more. Together, we are building a future where every ISB student has the opportunity to excel and make a meaningful impact. Thank you for believinginthepowerofeducationand forjoiningusonthisjourney.
AlumniStory Pedalsvs.ALS
TimmFenton,Classof1984
Back in March, we shared that Timm Fenton was about to embark on an extraordinary solo, unsupported bike ride across the United States to raise fundsandawarenessforALSresearch Inspiredbyhislatemother,JanFenton, whobattledALSwithcourageandgrace,TimmsetofffromOregontoVirginia, determinedtomakeadifference
We’re delighted to share that after67daysand4,200miles, Timm completed his ride on the Atlantic coast in Yorktown, VA! Along the way, he climbed an astonishing 219,000 feet in elevation and experienced everything from freezing mountainpassesintheNorthwesttorelentlessMidwestheadwinds.
“Eachdayofthe67-dayjourneyhaditschallengesand dramaticlandscapes,butitwasthepersonalconnections thatwillremainmyenduringmemories Manymoments weresimply‘meanttobe.’”–TimmFenton
But more than the physical challenge, it was the people and connections that madethisjourneyunforgettable:
Beingwelcomedintochurches,bikehostels,andthehomesofkindstrangers whoofferedfood,showers,andabed.
MeetinganALSpatientinMontanawhohostedafundraisingeventforhimin Missoula,coveredbylocalTVandradio.
Riding a bike loaned to him by a Seattle shop whose former mechanic and youngfatherhadtragicallypassedawayfromALS.
InLovingMemory
FORMER EMPLOYEE - DAVID HAYWARD
The ISB community bids farewell to David Hayward, who dedicated more than 30 years to teaching at ISB before his retirement in 2004 Even after retiring, David remained a familiar face on campus, supporting students through exam proctoring andextracurricularactivities
He will be remembered for his generosity, wisdom, and the countless lives he influenced In 2006, he was honoured with the James Sidgwick Award, a fitting tribute to his exceptional service. HislegacyenduresinthememoriesofgenerationsofISBstudents andcolleagues.
FORMER STUDENT & EMPLOYEE - MICHAEL ALAN BLAKE
With heavy hearts, we remember Michael Blake, ISB alumnus and former faculty member, who passed away on 4 May 2025 after a courageous battle with cancer Michael was part of ISB from Nursery through Grade 9, and later returned as a Communications Assistant intern and Artist-in-Residence It was here that he discovered his passion for teaching, which led him to an inspiring international careerineducation.
Michael’s creativity, kindness, and adventurous spirit touched many, andhewillbedearlymissedbyallwhoknewhim Hisartworkcanbe seen @MichaelBlake.art and the family can be reached at DorothyBlake@me.com.
FORMER EMPLOYEE - LENA
SCHUWER
We are deeply saddened to share the news of the passingofLenaSchuwer,acherishedmemberoftheISB community. Lena worked in the High School during her timeinBrussels,andtheirchildrenwerestudentsatISB
Shewillbefondlyrememberedforherwarmth,kindness, andthemanylivesshetouchedduringhertimewithus. Our thoughts are with her family and loved ones during thisdifficulttime
