Julienne Kwan, Caridad Corrales, Catherine Gerbino, Beatrice Mendelsohn, Sahana Kapoor, Mary Kate O’Connor, Lucy Bashforth, Megan Altier, Clare Pawlowski, Ava Zinna, Sonali Kamilla, Jasmine Algarin, Annalisa Abbate, Grayson Young, and Taylor Sieg at the Primary School playground.
“And remember, wherever you are, in whatever space you occupy in a college classroom, on an athletic field, or in a boardroom, take up space unapologetically because you belong.”
—DR. JENNIFER C. GALAMBOS, HEAD OF SCHOOL, IN HER OPENING REMARKS
Bold Voices. Brilliant Futures.
For 130 years, Kent Place has been dedicated to empowering girls by nurturing their individual voices. With this in mind, welcome to the fall 2024 issue of Kent Place magazine!
In these pages, we celebrate finding and using one’s voice. Take the Cumulative Humanities Project, a rite of passage in Grade 11. In this transformative, immersive, interdisciplinary undertaking — combining literature and history — our students discover, research, and analyze as they learn to articulate their unique perspectives. From the fresh insights of recent participants to the reflections of alumnae, read about the unfolding of personal narratives and the evolution of individual voices (page 32).
As we applaud the Class of 2024 (page 24), we celebrate not only their academic achievements but also the voices they’ve developed and tuned during their time at Kent Place. They leave campus equipped with the skills and confidence to lead and make their mark on the world.
Leadership is at the heart of all we do, and we’ve taken great care to define and implement it in myriad ways. On page 28, learn about our Primary School’s Leadership Backpack, a new initiative that plants the seeds of self-expression as our youngest learners start to find and value their voices.
I’m beyond proud to lead a school that champions the power of girls’ and women’s voices. Happy reading!
Yours for Kent Place,
Dr. Jennifer C. Galambos Head of School
Kent Place
EDITOR
Rachel Naggar P ’25
Director of Communications
ADVANCEMENT EDITOR
Coral Butler Brooks
Chief Advancement Officer
ALUMNAE EDITOR
Aimee Bousquet Singer ’88 P ’25
Advancement Communications
Manager
CONTRIBUTORS
Vicky Browne
Laura J. Cole
Andrea Dawson
Julie Gentile
Grace Kennedy
Erin Peterson
Lainey Segear
Sarah Stapperfenne
Jared Scott Tesler
Edel Thomas
Doris Troy, Copy Editor
CREATIVE DIRECTION & DESIGN 2communiqué
PHOTOGRAPHY
Peter Chollick
Christopher Duggan
Rich Graessle
Highpoint Pictures
Rebecca Nowalski
Mark Wyville
PRINTING
Prism Color Corporation
Kent Place, the official magazine of Kent Place School, is published twice a year by the Communications Office, in partnership with the Advancement Office, for alumnae, parents, students, faculty, staff, and friends of the school.
We welcome your input: communications@kentplace.org
WHAT WAS THE COOLEST PROJECT YOU WORKED ON AT KPS?
“My memories from the Class of 1954 may no longer be perfect but one delightful ‘project’ does stand out: picking daisies for the Daisy Chain, at graduation.”
—RICKY (KAPLON) ADAMS ’54
“During my senior year, as co-president of Drama Club, I convinced our faculty advisor to allow us to perform Dylan Thomas’s Under Milk Wood (an unusually modern choice back then) with the participation of boys from Pingry (and maybe Delbarton too?). I believe this was the first time boys took part in a KPS performance.”
—PATRICIA WILLIAMS ’69
“Participating in an investment competition and visiting the floor of the New York Stock Exchange in Mrs. Schwartz’s economics class. Her class inspired me to major in economics and business in college.”
—AIMEE (BOUSQUET) SINGER ’88 P ’25
“Model United Nations, in New York City, where our group represented Finland. I received a Finnish pen pal exactly my age named Pirjo. We began writing to each other in 1958 and the correspondence continues today. She showed my husband and me around Helsinki in 2002. Thank you, Mrs. Hady, for getting us to the Model UN, which led me to this precious friendship.”
—ANNE (HARDING) WOODWORTH ’61
“Coolest ‘project’? I always come back to three things: participating in competitive sports (especially hockey), having significant leadership opportunities, and making lifelong friends. All helped shape me into who I am today, and I’m very grateful.”
—DORIS (HODGES) HEISER ’61
“Hosting the Talent Show with Susanne (Santola) Mulligan our senior year. We stayed up until 2:00 a.m. creating introductions to each act.”
—GABRIELLE (COSTANZO) LONG ’93
“Model United Nations, in New York City — KPS represented Mauritania.”
—NIA (ELDRIDGE) EATON ’66
ALUMNAE, IS THERE A PROJECT YOU LOVED DOING AT KPS? PLEASE LET US KNOW!
Amelia Ing ’27, Katie Tan ’24, Juliette Maria ’26, Anabella Mendieta-Frost ’26, and Tessa Vuchic ’26
Advisor: Trish Carleton
Coach: John Garde P ’19
Verdict: Mock Trial Team Is Serious About Empowering One Another
Capping their most triumphant season ever, Kent Place’s student-led Mock Trial Team earned third place in the 2024 state final, in March. Much of their success can be attributed to the team’s encouraging leadership, from Captains Gabrielle Liberman ’24 and Kai Markley ’24, Director of Outreach Colette Gentile ’25, and Social Media Manager Megan Llewellyn-Jones ’25.
Not only were they committed to finding a role for anyone interested in joining, but they also fully expected and embraced mistakes. Their ultimate goal: learning and improving, together. This welcoming philosophy — a “teamwork-centric approach,” says Colette, a current captain along with Jacquelyn Reig ’26 — has resulted in a team of more than 30 students, one of the largest rosters in the state.
“Gabby and Kai fostered a collaborative, open, and understanding environment in which everyone gets a say,” says Megan. “Many teammates, myself included, skipped vacations last spring for the state competitions. That shows our dedication, and the effect is electric. I can’t wait to see what we accomplish in the future.”
BRAVE & BRILLIANT
Julissa Beltrán ’25
Often, when Julissa Beltrán ’25 has something on her mind, she and her advisor, Sandra Medina, sit together in the Great Room and chat. Julissa’s desire to ponder, process, and take part in deep conversations about people, psychology, culture, and news — not with the intent to persuade, but from a genuine desire to understand different perspectives — is a real strength, says Dr. Medina, who is also her AP Spanish Literature teacher and advisor for the LatinX Club and LatinX Affinity Group, both of which Julissa participates in. “She’s an old soul in a teenage persona, so mature, respectful, and the embodiment of kindness.”
Another strength, says Dr. Medina, is the ease with which she asks questions — the kinds of questions others may be too nervous to ask.
It’s a trait that was apparent from the day she arrived on campus as a freshman. Rather than intimidate her, the new environment
spurred her curiosity.
“She’s not afraid of saying what she thinks and asking for what she needs,” says Dr. Medina. “But she also has this way of connecting with others, always saying hi to people, welcoming new students, and listening.”
Listening and paying attention come naturally to Julissa. She’s the only one in her close-knit family of five who can communicate with her older brother, who is nonverbal as a result of a stroke he suffered as a baby. As a means of communication and social integration, he developed his own form of sign language, which Julissa understands fluently. “From a young age, I became his interpreter,” she says. “I don’t see it as a burden; being a part-time caretaker for him is just a normal part of my life.”
Last year, she took the Student-Designed Research class in order to expand her knowledge in computer science, a field that “scratches my brain the right way,” she says. She ended up delving into special education as well, ultimately creating an app that helps those on the autism spectrum — many of whom are nonverbal, like her brother — to communicate.
Given these experiences — and the fact that she’s an active member of Kent Place’s Student Government, currently serving as senior class president — one could easily argue that Julissa is a natural advocate, giving voice to those who can’t easily be heard.
But she doesn’t see herself that way.
“Everything I do, from my activities in school to my relationship with my brother, is because of my love toward those who are in my life and my desire to ensure that their voices are acknowledged and heard. I don’t know if that makes me an advocate, but I always try to show respect and goodwill no matter what I do,” she says. “I live by my values and I want to reflect them through the time and effort I put toward my responsibilities.”
Not surprisingly, education — perhaps special education — is a field she looks forward to pursuing. Outside of Kent Place, for the last three years she has been an English tutor for the student-led ¡Aprendalo!, so she has plenty of experience.
“The experiences I’ve had with family and within Kent Place have taught me how challenging it is to meet everyone’s needs,” Julissa says, “yet I remain driven by my determination to leave a meaningful impact wherever I go.”
part of a duck-rescue mission. WE DID IT! Kent Place reached a milestone last spring, celebrating its fifth Founders Day, the school’s annual day of giving, by raising more than $625,000 from some 1,100 donations to the Kent Place Annual Fund. MORNING MEETING [continued on p. 8]
A GREEN AND GOLD TIME MACHINE. There’s nothing more fun than Alumnae Visiting Day, when our graduates come back to campus to attend Morning Meeting, classes, and a special performance from the Jazz Club and Pep Squad. WHAT DO YOU
WONDER? Sixth-grade students learn digital literacy and researchbased skills in their Ed Tech/Library class by focusing on a social media topic they wonder about. After researching their question, they produce an infographic and send a letter to a changemaker who
can help satisfy their social media curiosity. BRACE FOR IMPACT. In Computer Science and Engineering class, second-graders learn about mechanical engineering and wind energy. They work in teams to engineer a system that uses wind energy to lift a cup as
GLOBAL OUTLOOK
BEYOND THE BLUE: A VOYAGE OF DISCOVERY AND CONSERVATION
Three thousand and four miles. Thirteen hours and two minutes. That’s how far and how long 20 Middle Schoolers, led by six KPS chaperones, traveled this June for an unforgettable adventure to the Galápagos Islands, 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador. The nine-day trip was one of learning about conservation alongside local researchers and a renewed sense of responsibility to protect and preserve this unique ecosystem. These are some of the exciting experiences they enjoyed.
EL ESTERITO WETLANDS TOUR. Exploring El Esterito Wetlands opened their eyes to a unique and vital estuary ecosystem. Catching glimpses of flamingos in their natural habitat was a bonus!
MICROPLASTIC SURVEY AND SEA TURTLE CONSERVATION. In a community science project led by the Galapagos Conservation Trust, they investigated the detrimental effects of plastic pollution on marine life and learned about the sea turtle conservation efforts of the area.
“The Galápagos trip brought into perspective how small our world really is: every creature is part of an endless web of life.”
—AMELIA DOBRIC ’28
SNORKELING AT POZA CHICA. The crystal-clear waters of Poza Chica provided the medium for unforgettable moments of marine exploration. The group practiced marine research strategies on a snorkeling adventure during which they spotted stingrays and penguins and swam with sea lions.
GIANT-TORTOISE MONITORING. Working with biologists at El Chato Giant Galapagos Tortoise Reserve, they assisted local researchers in finding wild giant tortoises and collecting biometric data used to monitor the survival rates of the majestic giant tortoises on Santa Cruz Island.
Having just completed a microplastics investigation, students took in the beauty of their surroundings by building sandcastles and learning to snorkel.
For Sophia Gandhi ’25, her Student-Designed Practical Research Project transformed her into the teacher.
It all started when Sophia was accepted into the Rutgers University Waksman Student Scholars Program, in which students conduct molecular biology and bioinformatics research. During a summer institute at Rutgers, Sophia explored how duckweed, an aquatic plant, could be used for biofuel and bioremediation. Lab work, lectures, and publication of her findings were all part of the two-week experience, which she then continued in the yearlong course.
When the Kent Place academic year began, Sophia led a group of students through a molecular biology and bioinformatics course designed around her work at Rutgers. After isolating RNA from duckweed samples, the group analyzed the length and sequence of the complementary DNA using molecular biology techniques, cross-referencing their findings against large datasets to identify new sequences.
Sophia’s work is a perfect example of how student-designed research makes possible a deep dive into a particular subject. In her case, it also provided a significant leadership opportunity. “I think doing this program and my desire to bring it to KPS to ensure that other students could learn and experience the science like I had helped to push me out of my comfort zone and develop leadership qualities,” she says.
“I have to credit all of the science teachers at KPS for my interest in the field, because their excitement and their passion have made all of my science classes incredible and ones I look forward to every day.”
—SOPHIA GANDHI ’25
Founders Day 2025 will be held on March 5. NEVER A DULL CONVERSATION. In Navigator, our weekly newsletter to parents, the Middle School provided conversation starters to give them openings to talk with their Middle School students about what their daughters are learning in class. No more “How was your day?”
only to hear in return “Fine.” SCHOOL CROSSOVER. In honor of Women’s History Month, the Upper School DEIB Student Task Force, the US DEIB Student Outreach Committee, and GLAM’D (Girls Learning and Making a Difference) spent the day at Delbarton, where they participated in class discussions about their different
experiences. GONNA FLY AWAY! With the success of our trips to France, Costa Rica, and Ecuador, we’re thrilled to be planning 2025 travels to Italy, Mexico, Spain, Australia (Performing Arts Trip), and Japan. A NEW TRADITION. KPS employees with children in first through eighth grade took part in our first-ever Take Our Children
to Work Day. In addition to seeing what their parents do, the 30 young guests went on a campus tour, had lunch, joined interactive activities, and got a taste of all the professions at Kent Place. ONE SCHOOL. ONE SHOWCASE! What better way to commemorate World Engineering Day than by putting on a STEM [continued on p. 10]
Sophia Gandhi ’25 in a science lab
Abby Weldon ’25
When Kent Place launched its first-ever flag football team, a year and a half ago, Abby Weldon ’25 — a newcomer to the sport — was among the first to sign up. This past spring, as captain, she led a 19-member team. She can tell a similar story about hoops. Having never touched a basketball before she joined the JV team, as a sophomore, she was elected captain a year later.
And last fall, when no one else appeared willing to run for junior class vice president, Abby jumped in. “It’ll be a learning experience. It’ll be fun!” she remembers telling herself.
Unquestionably, these snippets speak to Abby’s willingness to take risks. Perhaps
even more significant, though, they reflect the natural leadership qualities that enable her to plunge into the unknown selflessly and, yes, joyfully.
“If everyone is looking around, wondering who wants to be the first person to take charge, Abby will be the one who has no problem saying, ‘I’ll break the ice — I’ll start,’” says Peter Wertz, an Upper School math teacher and her advisor. What’s more, he says, her lighthearted personality imbues her with “a wonderful light.”
During her junior year, an especially fraught time for students because of looming college applications, Abby regularly delivered much-needed levity. “She’s able
to turn a pressure-filled situation into ‘Hey, it’s okay, guys. We’re all going to be fine,’” says Mr. Wertz. “She rallies her classmates with her humor and cheerfulness and makes everyone feel at ease, like they belong.”
Abby’s leadership qualities are undeniably intrinsic, but she credits Kent Place with cultivating and championing them.
“If I had stayed at my old school,” she says, “I wouldn’t be raising my hand as much in class or be unafraid to ask a question or take charge in a project and present my ideas. Everyone here is encouraged to ask questions and not be afraid. There’s no teasing or ridicule if you get an answer wrong. Everyone wants to see you succeed.”
Kent Place’s nurturing environment was made evident to Abby as soon as she arrived, in the fourth grade. Whereas earlier teachers told her she wasn’t putting in her best effort, Mrs. Versh suggested a deeper evaluation was needed. A formal diagnosis confirmed dyslexia, and ever since, Abby says, she has a much better understanding of how she learns best. And Kent Place has provided the support she needs.
The hands-on, project-based work she encounters in many of her classes, such as AP U.S. History, with Mr. Maset, piques her curiosity and fuels her desire to learn. What’s more, she appreciates that female leadership is not simply an obvious buzzword on an all-girls campus; it’s thoughtfully modeled through the curriculum. For her Cumulative Humanities Project — a capstone, interdisciplinary assignment that every junior undertakes (for more about the CHP, see page 28) — she found herself happily rereading Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women and exploring the critical role women played during the Civil War.
As she looks ahead to graduation, Abby is confident but also conflicted. So many Kent Place friendships and memories are dear to her, she says — chatting with classmates during free time, quizzing them with flashcards, making s’mores with her flag football team, weekend ice-cream runs . . .
“I feel like I blinked five times and graduation is practically here,” she says. “Leaving will be bittersweet, but I feel well prepared and I know I have the tools to do well. I know KPS has set me up for success.”
BRAVE & BRILLIANT
Science teacher Wendy Hall works with eighth graders to make connections between science and fast fashion
Fast Fashion Is the Perfect Fit
When Middle School teachers Michelle Parisi, Amanda Berry, Wendy Hall, and Alicia Rodriguez were looking for one topic that would enable students to make connections across all their subjects, it didn’t take long to realize that fast fashion — mass-produced, inexpensive, and low-quality garments — would be just the thing. These guiding questions provide a glimpse of the many ways students explored fast fashion.
HISTORY: What is economic globalization and what role does it play in fast fashion? What are sweatshops and what is the human cost of fast fashion around the world? What are the lasting effects of trade agreements as they relate to fast fashion?
ENGLISH: What can we learn by studying workers’ perspectives in poetry
and nonfiction? What themes are found in the voices of garment workers through time? What assumptions are challenged when we listen to the voices of workers?
SCIENCE: What are the environmental effects of production and consumption of fast fashion? How do processes such as garment dyeing affect the water supply in the communities surrounding production sites? Are there sustainable alternatives to fast fashion?
MATH: How can we analyze data to determine trends in fast fashion? What are the economic factors that led to fast fashion? How can we use analytical tools, such as trade-off tables, to study the relationship between regulation and fast fashion?
Showcase? Primary Schoolers worked in partner groups to create their own cardboard carnival games, played by their Dash robots. Middle School sixth-graders displayed their roller-coaster projects, and after they gave an overview, the Middle/Upper School team demonstrated some of the events
they competed in at the Science Olympiad regional tournament. CREATIVE AND COMPASSIONATE ENTREPRENEURS. Combining their love of art, math, and English-language arts, the fifth grade created tessellation designs and turned them into notecards available for purchase. The money raised was used to buy diapers,
which they donated to the Junior League of Summit’s Diaper Drive. A COMMITMENT TO GROWTH. Faculty members Elena Neacsu, Sandra Medina, Carey Gates, Amanda Freiler, and Joan Wilson attended the NJAIS Leadership Institute. This professionaldevelopment opportunity is designed to hone leadership skills
and strengthen understanding of independent school education. WHAT TEAM ARE YOU ON? The Primary School Field Day’s theme was none other than the Summer Olympics! In addition to donning their green and gold, each class was assigned a country and showcased an individual who made an impact on it.
FIVE THINGS ABOUT . . .
OUR LIBRARIES
Our two libraries are dynamic hubs of discovery, creativity, and connection. Far more than just places from which to borrow books, they’re vibrant spaces where knowledge comes alive. Students learn to use technology, collaborate on projects, and explore learning through workshops, classes, and special events. Whether they’re delving into the latest research or simply relaxing in a cozy nook, students find myriad reasons to appreciate these spaces.
5THE VITALITY.
To inspire young readers, the Amanda Yoder Primary School Library hosts author visits, featuring such notable writers as Rajani LaRocca, Katrina Moore, Kate Klise, Baptiste Paul, and Janet Wong and former Kent Place faculty members Augusta Scattergood and Debra Farmer Kris. The Middle and Upper School library is now a gallery for student artwork, and last year four pieces selected by the visual arts faculty to be part of the school’s permanent collection were added.
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THE PROGRAMS. The Primary School’s birthday book program is more than 30 years old: generations of students, faculty, and staff have made donations to the library’s collection. Some 200 books are contributed annually, each presented at a monthly Morning Meeting. Recently, it became an endowed program: the Elaine M. Johnson P ’90 Birthday Books Program.
1
THE RESOURCES. Last year, the libraries checked out some 7,000 books, demonstrating that KPS students enjoy the heft of print. In addition, the libraries offer a vast array of resources: 1,300 eBooks and 300 audiobooks via Sora, access to more than 250,000 academic titles through EBSCO’s eBook Academic Collection, and streaming services such as Kanopy and Swank’s Digital Campus, which feature everything from Disney movies to documentaries. Comics Plus has a wide selection of graphic novels and manga; the databases JSTOR and EBSCO’s Academic Search Premier provide access to journals.
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THE STAFF. Our three librarians — Deborah Afir, Rosiris Mendoza, and John Walz — are also instructors, teaching informationliteracy skills starting with our Pre-Kindergartners. In addition to showing students how to use catalogs and databases and access information in other ways, they provide instruction on research, evaluating sources, citations, and related skills such as paraphrasing and how to organize information.
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THE SPACE. The Middle and Upper School library, open weekdays 7:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m., is where students like to get work done when they’re on campus. By their request, it’s a quiet place for study, homework, and make-up assessments. Rooms are available for students who need a collaborative space in which to work, and the library serves as a central location to make up tests or complete tests for students with extended time.
Severing the Cord
In late February 2020, Head of School
Jennifer Galambos attended the National Association of Independent Schools annual conference, in Philadelphia. Among the dozens of speakers, one in particular stood out: the social psychologist and New York Times bestselling author Jonathan Haidt, who talked about a troublesome correlation between the rise in adolescent depression and anxiety and the negative impact of social media, on girls in particular.
Dr. Haidt’s words resonated with Dr. Galambos. A month later, when COVID hit and screen time soared, they became pro-
phetic. She continued to follow Dr. Haidt’s work and did some research of her own.
In 2023, when Middle School Director Neisha Payne expressed her concerns over cell phone policy infractions, Dr. Galambos knew it was time for a change.
“When you look at the data, it’s hard to deny,” says Dr. Galambos. “As educators, we have a moral and ethical responsibility to support students’ academic and social-emotional development. And the data tell us that the school day can be a happier, more engaged experience if they don’t have phones.”
So what happened?
At the start of the 2023–2024 academic year, Middle Schoolers were no longer expected to keep their phones turned off and in their bookbags — a policy that had led, according to Ms. Payne, to clandestine bathroom breaks and locker runs for sneak peeks at devices. Now, each morning students drop their phones in a series of mini-mailboxes, located near lockers so they’re visible and easily retrievable at the end of the day.
At first, student reaction was aggrieved. But privately, says Ms. Payne, they thanked her. “Kent Place Middle Schoolers are vocal leaders and advocates. I regularly get proposals from them if they disagree with something and want to suggest a change,” she says. “Last year, I didn’t receive a single proposal about the revised cell-phone policy.” Some students even stopped bringing their phones to school altogether.
A few months into the modified policy, Dr. Galambos sought out a group of 16 eighth-graders. “They articulated vociferously that they were more engaged and more present with one another,” she says, noting that they also divulged their imaginative moniker for the new mailboxes: “cell-phone jail.”
“By their own admission,” says Dr. Galambos, “we’re achieving success in eliminating some of the stress that a device can cause during the day.”
For the most part, parents, too, are grateful: The revised policy affords children and their parents more school-day independence, says the Head of School. Now, when she and Ms. Payne walk the hallways, they see more conversation and togetherness. Detention points have fallen as well.
Upper Schoolers, too, now have more opportunity for screen-free connection. A similar revised cell-phone policy was implemented in the Upper School at the start of the 2024–2025 academic year. Dr. Galambos is confident the results among older students will be equally positive.
“As our annual student survey has shown, Kent Place is by and large educating healthy and resilient young women,” she says. “Eliminating phones during the academic day is just one next step in developing young women who are in charge of their own destiny.”
Home away from home for our Middle Schoolers’ phones
SYLLABUS
“ECONOMICS IS MORE THAN JUST MONEY”
COURSE TITLE: Portraits of Empowerment: A Study of Women in Leadership, Ethics & Economics
TEACHER: Alicia Rodriguez, Economics and Financial Literacy Coordinator
PREREQUISITES: None
BACKGROUND: Concepts of economics and financial literacy have been successfully integrated throughout the Primary and Middle School curricula. Recently, to expand on this momentum, a group of Kent Place teachers, among them the directors of the Girls’ Leadership Institute and the Ethics Institute, worked collaboratively to offer Upper Schoolers additional exposure to the concepts, before macroeconomics in their senior year. And creativity, they felt, was essential (Intro to Econ was out). “We really wanted to build on the mission of Kent Place and introduce students to empowered women through the stories of their professional lives,” says Mrs. Rodriguez.
COURSE DESCRIPTION: Launching this fall as a trimester elective, Portraits of Empowerment, open to students in Grades 10–12, provides a unique take on key economic concepts from the vantage point of female leaders. From Taylor Swift and Janet Yellin to Mandy Fields (the CFO of e.l.f. Cosmetics) and lesser-known professionals, “students will learn not only what leaders look like, but also the economic principles at the core of their businesses and political views,” Mrs. Rodriguez says: think market systems and disruptions, assets and liabilities, cash flow, earnings calls, corporate ethics, and much more.
REQUIRED READING: Economics: Everything You Need to Know to Master the Subject — in One Book!, the latest publication from Upper School history and economics teacher Elaine Schwartz
LEARNING OBJECTIVES: In addition to completing a final project that encourages students to delve into the leadership and operations of a company or nonprofit they select, Mrs. Rodriguez wants them to understand a cost-benefit matrix and to realize that every decision has a trade-off: “I don’t expect them to be economists when they finish,” she says, “but I hope they’ll be enthusiastic to learn more.”
INSIGHT: “Economics is more than just money; it’s a way of thinking. When students can think economically, it unlocks doors. We tease this idea throughout the Primary School and in Grade 8, so this course is the next step. I love getting students excited about economics!”
“I encourage you to reflect on your time at Kent Place and your role within our community. By deepening our connections, we are not just building friendships; we are building support that can lift us up in times of need and celebrate with us in times of joy.”
—JORDYN SMITH ’28, IN HER CONVOCATION SPEECH
KPS UNITES FOR APRIL’S SOLAR ECLIPSE. With educational explorations and outdoor observations, our campus was buzzing with excitement as we awaited the rare astronomical phenomenon. Thanks to Science Chair Luis Largo and teacher Becky Van Ry, students, faculty, and staff were equipped with eclipse-viewing glasses, so everyone could witness its progression in real time. Together, we celebrated one of the marvels of the universe, creating an unforgettable memory and adding immeasurably to the Kent Place community spirit.
Stony Brook University
cross country/track Amherst College
Paving the Path to Collegiate Athletic Success
Kent Place School is known for its academically challenging environment and high-achieving students, and each year we celebrate the hard work of our graduates as they embark on their next academic journey. But what if that journey also includes playing a sport? For those aspiring to collegiate athletics, the school provides assistance through a collaboration between the Athletic Department and the College Advising Office. This partnership starts early and adapts to the unique demands of each sport and its recruiting timeline.
The Athletic Department plays a crucial role in helping interested students understand the distinctions among Division I, II, and III athletics, providing initial guidance and support. As students approach their junior year, the College Advising Office steps in to help build a college list that aligns with their academic and athletic goals. Together, these departments tailor the process to meet the needs of each sport, ensuring comprehensive assistance throughout the high school years.
Navigating the college-recruiting landscape can be daunting, but Kent Place makes sure students and their families are well prepared. The school offers strategy sessions with its coaches and advisors as well as educational opportunities, such as the January recruiting
panel. During this event, held annually and featuring high school and Division I–III coaches from both individual and team sports, a range of topics — recruiting timelines, connecting with coaches, the balance between club and high school sports, late recruitment, and the role of parents and guardians, for example — are discussed. In addition, families are encouraged to ask questions of the panelists. Students and their families walk away with a solid understanding of what it takes to be recruited from a coach’s perspective.
Over the past three years, an impressive 13 percent of Kent Place senior athletes have been recruited to play at the collegiate level. This statistic is a testament to what can be achieved with talent, determination, teamwork, and outstanding coaching.
At Kent Place, the partnership between Athletics and College Advising exemplifies the school’s commitment to supporting student-athletes in finding the right college match. This collaboration ensures that students receive tailored guidance, balancing both academic and athletic aspirations and preparing them for success at the collegiate level.
Athletic Director Vicky Browne joined Kent Place in 2022.
Rachel Reiter ’24 lacrosse Oberlin College
Charlotte Cote ’24 lacrosse Williams College
Sophia Builione ’24 field hockey
Johns Hopkins University
Taylor Sieg ’24 golf College of Charleston
Celia Kanellakos ’24
soccer Swarthmore College
Elisa Gomes ’24 lacrosse
Addison McGoey ’24
Emma Claire Quinn ’24 lacrosse Boston College
Sarah Stavrovich ’24 lacrosse Bates College
FROM THE SIDELINES: THE ROAD TO RECOVERY
In sports, injuries are often considered part of the game, but Reilly Doyle ’26 faced one of the most challenging obstacles an athlete can encounter: a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). Through determination and perseverance — and with the encouragement of her teammates and support from family — this three-sport athlete reclaimed her place on the field.
Describe your recovery journey.
It was long and hard. It was a very slow process of building back the quad strength I had lost and teaching my leg to work the way it did before surgery. I had surgery exactly one month after tearing my ACL, and afterward, my bad leg was two times smaller than my good leg and wouldn’t straighten or bend all the way. It took almost five months before I could run again and then another six months until I was cleared for contact.
What was most challenging?
It was probably the mental aspect, watching from the sidelines as everyone played, and just
trying to put 100 percent effort into physical therapy and healing. I’d have to tell myself every day that I’d be healed soon and I needed to put in the hard work to experience the reward.
What was it like returning to play, and how did you prepare for it?
In the beginning, I was beyond happy to be
back and doing what I loved, but the reality was much more difficult. It took longer than I had expected and there was always the fear of another injury. I put in a lot of work training and learning to deal with the mental aspects of coming back from an injury. It was great being back on the field playing lacrosse in spring and now soccer.
TOUCHDOWN!
Guess who crashed our flag football practice? None other than Eli Manning P ’29 ’31 ’33. The twotime Superbowl MVP took time out of his day to join the team, give great advice, and even demonstrate a few plays.
Reilly Doyle ’26
Roar of the Dragon
During the winter and spring seasons, our teams showcased incredible skill and determination. Let’s recap some of the standout moments and victories.
FENCING
Varsity Fencing had its best season on record. The team did extremely well across weapons and tournaments. The sabre team earned bronze at the District 4 tournament, for example, and the foil team earned bronze at the Prep Championships.
SQUASH
Our Varsity Squash team went to Squash Nationals in Philadelphia for the first time. Over the weekend-long tournament, the team went 2-2 and made an appearance in the finals of the first consolation bracket.
GOLF
Varsity Golf went undefeated in the Essex/ Union County combined division for regular-season play. In tournament play, the team won the Super Essex Conference Tournament, with three finishers in the top 10. The team finished third at the Prep Tournament.
LACROSSE
Varsity Lacrosse had a historic season. The team went undefeated and won the Stars and Stripes Blue Division of the NJIGLL. They had success in tournaments as well, making it to the Prep Tournament Finals and the State Tournament Semifinals.
TRACK
Athletes on the track team enjoyed personal records across events. Throwers, hurdlers, sprinters, and distance runners improved from last season; new athletes grew throughout the season. Addison McGoey ’24 won the Union County Conference 1600m race as well as the 3200m for the Mountain Division. At the Meet of Champions, Addison placed fourth in the 3200m, running a personal best of 10:41.
ICE HOCKEY
Varsity Ice Hockey brought home the Cohen Cup in a thrilling overtime win in February. The team, which was seeded second, took down number 1–seeded Summit for the third time that season for the cup victory.
Ava Builione ’26 celebrates with the trophy after Ice Hockey wins the Cohen Cup.
Addison McGoey ’24
Varsity Lacrosse
Vivienne Vengroff ’27
Aadya Bharadwaj ’24
Annabelle Walter ’24 and Erin Kim ’27
WHAT WE LEARNED IN COSTA RICA
Over Spring Break, 12 Upper Schoolers, led by Spanish teachers Sandra Medina and Elena Neacsu, navigated their way through northern Costa Rica. Below, a few of their key takeaways:
1. It’s challenging — but not impossible — to speak only Spanish for eight straight days, a rule to which students were asked to adhere.
2. Visiting with local students was eye-opening. “Watching them proudly show off their culture and invite us to learn dances and play games with them was so special. We didn’t want to leave,” says Supriya Kamilla ’26.
3. Scarlet macaws are larger than you might think. The group rubbed elbows with the sizable parrots while cleaning their cages at an animal-rehabilitation sanctuary, one of several glimpses they caught into the country’s vast biodiversity.
4. Be open to any and all new experiences. “I was willing to try new things, eat new foods, and learn new skills, and that made a big difference,” Supriya says. Example: She and her fellow Kent Place travelers ziplined through the rain forest near the 5,357-foot-high Arenal Volcano.
5. “It’s one thing to have a Spanish lesson in a classroom,” says Dr. Medina, “but to experience a country firsthand is completely different.”
Third-Graders Bring Biographies to Life
Last year, third-graders did something different to cap off their study of the biography genre: “Little Shoes, Big Voices” was a departure from the traditional wax museum concept. This time, third-grade teachers Shona Inggs and Holly Prince wanted to give every student her own spotlight. Rather than sharing in the same room at the same time to one or two people, each student wrote a speech in the voice of her biography subject, dressed up like the person, and delivered the speech for an audience of fellow students, teachers, and parents.
“It was rewarding to see a student who had been reluctant to give her speech in front of the 15 girls in our class during rehearsals embrace the challenge and deliver it boldly from the stage in front of all the parents,” says Ms. Inggs.
“With one child on stage at a time, they could really shine,” says Mrs. Prince. A quiz prepared for the parents by the students made for an interactive intermission. “It was funny — some of the parents were very competitive,” Mrs. Prince says.
Many big names took the stage, among them Alexander Hamilton, Sonia Sotomayor, and Simone Biles. Some lesser-known luminaries, such as the classical pianist and environmental activist Mahani Teave, gave everyone a chance to learn something new.
Willow Doyle shares the life of Grace O’Malley, pirate queen.
Top: Students enjoy a cooking lesson. Below: Participants spend some time with a few Costa Rican coatis.
Helping Teens Navigate Social Media, Safely and Ethically
The Ethics Institute at Kent Place School’s REBOOT (Rethinking Ethical Behavior Online for Oneself Together) program empowers students to take charge of their digital lives by making data-informed and ethically minded decisions that support their social and emotional well-being. One of REBOOT’s strongest Upper School initiatives is the student-led podcast series Tapping In Tanseem Arampulikan ’25, a REBOOT student leader and cohost of Tapping In, says the underlying message conveyed by the podcast is that although social media aren’t inherently bad, users’ relationships with the various platforms may become increasingly unhealthy over time.
“Through expert interviews, panel discussions, and narrated stories, we promote a healthy relationship with social media,” says Tanseem, “calling on listeners to be conscientious about the content they’re consuming and aware of how they’re engaging with it.”
To date, among Tapping In’s teen-oriented topics have been body image, human trafficking, mental health, and misinformation — the latter of which is a consequence of using social media as news sources.
Tara Khurana ’26, who was a student leader and cohost last year and will serve as editor and producer for the podcasts this fall, says the initiative has been a fulfilling experience. “In addition to learning important skills about audio editing and equipment handling,” she says, “I’ve gained knowledge about project management, such as how to plan and execute episodes from conception to release. I’ve grown as an ethical thinker and honed my critical-thinking skills. Preparing for episodes requires extensive research and analysis.”
What’s next for Tapping In? Launching QuickTap, a series of seven-minute informational episodes on current events.
LISE WOODRING ON HER LOVE OF SCIENCE AND INSTILLING IT IN HER STUDENTS
Lise Woodring had almost completed a three-year doctoral program in physical therapy when she decided to go in another direction; she went on to earn a master’s in teaching instead. For three years, she taught anatomy and physiology at the County College of Morris (she still does, part time), until she started at Kent Place. A Grade 9 science and AP Biology teacher for close to a decade now — as well as an advisor to numerous student clubs and committees and the Upper School DEIB liaison for faculty — she says KPS feels like home.
Why biology?
My high school biology teacher taught me that science can be fascinating and fun. I thrived in his class. Now, I get to instill a love of science in my own students. I love learning about how humans and other organisms work and the ways those processes can go awry but usually don’t. It’s amazing how many little things come together for us to function properly.
Strengths
I like to make jokes — often students remember information better if they learn it in a fun or humorous way. I’m also good at simplifying and explaining complicated concepts. I really enjoy seeing my students succeed and achieve their potential.
Non-teaching role I prioritize
Growing up hearing impaired, I didn’t have a trusted disabled adult or support group to turn to. As faculty advisor to the Disability Affinity Group, which I helped to launch, I like that I can be that support.
What I love about KPS
Our students, hands down. We have fabulous students. I enjoy teaching all four Upper School grades, having different ages and experiences in the classroom. And I enjoy being able to teach at a level I want to teach them at. They’re super engaged. I feel like I’m making a difference and helping students to see possibilities for themselves in the world.
Tanseem Arampulkan ’25 and Tara Khurana ’26
Celebrating a Tradition — and Community — of Dance
In late April, two dozen Upper School dancers took to the Hyde and Watson stage for the annual Evening of Dance, a Kent Place tradition that began more than 40 years ago. Under the artistic direction of Amanda Hudson, in her second year as
Upper School dance instructor, the impassioned performances reflected the event’s ongoing evolution as well as students’ impressively varied repertoire, from ballet and modern to jazz and contemporary movement.
Among the highlights was original choreography by each of the eight senior Chamber Dancers, as well as a show-stopping finale that brought Middle School dancers to the stage for a cross-division celebration of movement and expression.
Angelica Nwachuku ’24, Brooke Dambrot ’26, and Sonali Kamilla ’24 “25 or 6 to 4”
Choreography: Catherine Gerbino ’24
Sophia Esposito ’24
“Change Is Everything”
Choreography: Ava Zinna ’24
“We bond so much even though we’re in different grades. It’s a lot of hard work but it’s so much fun being able to do it with my friends.”
—OLIVIA PETERS ’26, A MEMBER OF THE DANCE ENSEMBLE, WHO ATTENDED EVERY EVENING OF DANCE SINCE SHE WAS A KINDERGARTNER
Ava Zinna ’24
“Change Is Everything”
Choreography: Ava Zinna ’24
Angelica Nwachuku ’24 and Brooke Dambrot ’26 “Call Your Mom”
Choreography: Katherine Tan ’24
Dance Ensemble “Rise”
Choreography: Amanda Hudson
Mariana Pirez Ramirez ’26
“Rise”
Choreography: Amanda Hudson
Bringing Harmony to the Community
Charged in our recent accreditation report with “taking Kent Place to the world,” the Performing Arts Department last year introduced several collaborations with local community organizations.
In December, our KP Chamber Choir (KP Singers and Chamber Singers combined) were invited to perform with the Maplewood Glee Club. Founded in 1947 by returning WWII soldiers who between battles had passed the time by singing together, this choir was adopted by the Maplewood Recreation Department in 1957, and it’s been performing locally since then. Captivated by their connection to one another through voice, our choral teachers agreed this was a good opportunity for our Upper School singers. The fact that one of our then seniors, Claire Collins ’24, is a niece of one of the Glee Club members added another layer of connection. We already had enough repertoire to perform a 15-minute set, but the real spirited fun came from our collaboration with the singers from Maplewood. Both
the rehearsal and the performance were exuberant and filled with holiday spirit (and an orchestral “whip”) as we joined forces on “Sleigh Ride,” by Leroy Anderson. The joy generated by all the singers was a treat for performers and audience alike.
In early March, the Middle School singers who had participated in the Broadway Showcase (see next page) took their talent on the road and charmed the residents of SAGE Eldercare, in Summit. These performers, who had enthralled our Kent Place audience a week earlier, quickly learned how much joy singing could bring to those who might not normally hear the sound of young voices. Having the chance to sing the same repertoire more than once gave our girls more confidence in their performance abilities and their stage presence. Said their director, Neil Ginsberg, “It’s a wonderful opportunity to share our work and talent with a larger community in Summit.”
Another highlight for the Upper School combined Chamber Choir was participation in a workshop/festival choir, sponsored by
NJ Youth Chorus. Together with treble choirs from Chatham and Pingry, KPS singers spent time with clinician Erin Plisco, associate director of choral studies at Missouri State University. The afternoon of workshops, community singing of rounds, choir games, and cookies reinforced our belief that singers who make connections beyond music bring that togetherness to our ensembles. They flew the green and gold flag to dizzying heights that day.
These extramural opportunities bring out the best in our young performers. They’re dedicated and committed to their art and to one another. We’ve all seen the remarkable benefits for the local community and our students. And I hold firm to the conviction that “a well-connected choir is the ultimate instrument.”
Here’s to great singing experiences this year. And we can’t wait for Australia, come June!
Edel Thomas, Director of Performing Arts, is in her 33rd year teaching at KPS.
The KP Chamber Singers collaborate with the Maplewood Glee Club for a performance of “Last Christmas,” by Wham!
STAGING COMBAT
As the title of last winter’s Upper School play makes clear, She Kills Monsters is hardly a placid tale. Rather, it’s rife with sword fights, stabbing, hair pulling, and demon-slaying.
Learning appropriate stage combat — how to fight persuasively but safely — was a must, says the show’s director, Keri Lesnik. On eight occasions, for their full two-hour rehearsal, weapon-wielding Kent Place actors learned how to fake a punch, to put it mildly, from professional combat choreographer Erik Gaden.
A few key skills deployed:
• Eye contact/communication. “Broadcasting your next move so your partner knows when to react is important,” said stage manager Vanessa Lee ’24.
• Sound. Real but unsharpened metal weapons result in the perfect clang!
• Reaction. “Reaction matters almost as much as, if not more than, the actual attack,” Vanessa said. For example, when the character Steve’s arms were ripped off, actor and student director Kai Markley ’24 applied deft stunt choreography, along with a gruesome shriek.
• Choreography Building on a variety of combat positions creates a compelling fight scene. “It was incredibly fun having a sense of the lingo. We all felt really involved and knowledgeable about this unique and fascinating skill set,” said Kai.
Middle Schoolers Give Their Regards to Broadway
In early spring, Kent Place presented its inaugural Middle School Broadway Showcase to an enthralled community-wide audience. A few days later, the girls did an encore for very appreciative senior citizens through SAGE Eldercare, in Summit.
In preparation for the cabaret-style performance, Middle Schoolers learned the fundamentals of musical theater, such as song interpretation, character, motivation, and the interplay of singing and acting. Without relying on sets, costumes, or technical elements, students sang popular selections from a range of classic and contemporary works — from Babes in Arms, Gypsy, and The Wizard of Oz to Amélie, Anastasia,
Heathers, and Wicked — all of which feature strong female protagonists.
“Musical theater is all about connecting with the story of the song and being in the moment as you sing,” says Neil Ginsberg, who directed and accompanied the performers. “Rehearsals are a chance to learn the notes and memorize lyrics, but the real joy is presenting to a live audience. That’s when it all comes together.”
Says Dylan Klug ’29, who belted out “Don’t Rain on My Parade,” from Funny Girl (1969) — originally sung by none other than Barbra Streisand — “It was so exciting, so much fun, and helped me improve my self-confidence and stage presence.”
THE SUN WILL COME OUT. As part of the Primary School (Grades 3–5) Spring Concert, members of the Third-Grade Tap Ensemble dance to “You’re Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile,” from Annie
Mr. Ginsberg practices with members of the showcase.
Upper School winter play, She Kills Monsters
Alyma Karbownik, Lauren Osuala, Sahana Kapoor, and Sawyer Pappas
Future Buzzing into the
As the 80 graduates of the Class of 2024 step into the unknown, they’re ready to make a lasting impact: they’re the ones who will shape the future. They carry the lessons of strength and solidarity — and perhaps some wisdom from their mascot, Banquo the Bee.
‘‘
In the great scheme of things, we know little about how the rest of our lives will play out. Believe it or not, that’s a good thing. That mystery keeps our lives interesting because we have so many choices to make, so many paths to forge, on our way to discovering who we are.
—GABRIELLE LIBERMAN, SENIOR CLASS STUDENT CO-SPEAKER AND WINNER OF THE 2024 CITIZENSHIP CUP
Senior class student speakers Celia Kanellakos and Gabrielle Liberman
President-elect
Julissa Beltrán leads the Daisy Chain.
Margeaux Morial ’24
‘‘
It’s a journey that never ends, but it’s one that the legendary Class of 2024 is embarking on together. We may be apart, but we’ll always have a hive to come back to, friends we’ll hold dear for the rest of our lives.
—CELIA KANELLAKOS, SENIOR CLASS STUDENT CO-SPEAKER
receives her diploma from Dr. Evelyn Hanna, Interim Director of the Upper School, and Anne Grissinger, President of the Board of Trustees
Elle Dambrot
Shriya Patel and Nathalie Montesdeoca
Dr. Ralph Pantozzi gives the faculty address.
With Kent Place’s new definition of leadership, along with tools such as the Leadership Adventure Backpack, even our youngest students discover that they can make an impact.
BY ERIN PETERSON | ILLUSTRATION BY SIMONA BORTIS-SCHULTZ
How We Build Leaders from Day One
Kindergarten teacher Molly James never sells her young students short, but she admits she wasn’t sure how they would respond when she introduced the sophisticated concept of leadership into her classroom with a flashlight.
Good leaders, Ms. James explained to the girls, “shine a light on others.” She set aside time each day for students to recognize their peers — for being a friend, for helping with a project — by literally shining a light on them.
The girls quickly grasped the idea and were so delighted by it that they added their own elements to prepare for the daily ritual: “They pulled the shades,” says Ms. James, “turned off the lights, and turned off the video display. Then, when they shined a light on someone, you could see that person better and it felt even more special.”
Teaching students the skills of leadership has always been part of a KPS education. But a more recently developed definition — “inspiring others and activating potential in the world” — brings increased attention to the leadership work faculty and students are doing at every level. “The new definition is designed so that everybody can see themselves in it,” says Holly Doyle, Director of the Girls’ Leadership Institute. “And it helps move us all in the same direction.”
CREATING AN INCLUSIVE DEFINITION
For years, teachers and students had wide latitude in how they thought of leadership. It wasn’t until they were in eighth grade that students were taught what’s considered a standard definition: a leader is someone who motivates and inspires others to follow her to the accomplishment of a goal. “It was a great starting point,” says Ms. Doyle.
She was eager, however, to create a more expansive definition that resonated with the full spectrum of KPS students. One phrase that struck a chord during her conversations with teachers, students, Board members, and administrators was “activating potential.”
“Activating potential can look very different for different people,” Ms. Doyle says. It doesn’t exclude a more traditional notion of leadership; rather, it expands the idea to include catalysts: that is, the helpers who spark action.
She also wanted to create a definition that felt like a choice: “We wanted students to feel like they could lead — that they didn’t have to wait for somebody to tell them they could lead — but not that they always had to be leading,” she says. Ultimately, it was agreed that for leadership at Kent Place, “inspiring others and activating potential in the world” hit the mark.
The new, carefully crafted definition now serves as the school’s north star. “It enables us to bring more consistency to the curriculum and to the student experience,” says Ms. Doyle.
“I want to shine a light on someone who is always very kind to everyone including visitors. This person includes everyone at all times.”
LEADERSHIP TOOLS YOUNG STUDENTS CAN HOLD IN THEIR HANDS
Teachers and students in every grade are beginning to integrate this newly defined concept of leadership in the classroom in age-appropriate ways. In the Primary School, for example, a backpack containing supplies serves as a simple-to-understand metaphor. “By transforming an abstract idea into concrete, engaging components, we’ve created a shared language and memorable experiences that students can easily recall and apply,” says Kim Walker, Director of the Primary School.
The Leadership Adventure Backpack currently holds a flashlight and a “reflecting stone,” which reminds students to take time for introspection and to think about their progress and goals.
As students progress, they use these symbolic tools in different ways. In Kindergarten, teachers ask the girls to hold a reflecting stone and think about their actions over the course of a day. In fourth and fifth grade, students write about their experiences, and sometimes even read their thoughts over the intercom.
These early experiences smooth the way for students to participate in Girls’ Leadership Institute activities as early as fourth grade, to contribute to Leadership 6 Seminar classes, and to take advantage of an enormous range of leadership activities as they enter the Upper School.
Teachers can often offer tailored student opportunities that embody this larger idea of leadership, says Ms. Doyle. “That might mean that one student talks about the curriculum to parents at the curriculum night, another serves as the birthday coordinator, and another leads a club,” she says. “Each student has important responsibilities, and none of them should be underestimated.”
For Ms. James, a particularly meaningful part of the work is helping students begin to understand the many ways in which they can harness their power and make a positive impact. “In my class, being a leader might be as a math manager,” she says, “but being a leader is also when I ask students to give me their attention and they stop what they’re doing to give their attention to me, because they’re modeling being a leader. We notice and name these things; they understand that they’re learning how to lead.”
Filling the Leadership Adventure Backpack
Each item in the backpack will symbolize an aspect of effective leadership. The list of what’s inside the backpacks is still being finalized, but in addition to the FLASHLIGHT and the REFLECTING STONE, here are some of the likely supplies.
MAP
Leaders create a plan for where they want to go — and make informed decisions along the way.
BINOCULARS
Leaders pay attention to the big picture.
COMPASS
Leaders seek information and different points of view.
BELL
Leaders express their ideas to improve their communities.
FIRST-AID KIT
Leaders keep their team strong and healthy.
Leaders take care of themselves.
MAGNIFYING GLASS Leaders notice details.
WATER BOTTLE
CHOICES AND VOICES
BY LAURA J. COLE | ILLUSTRATIONS BY JULIA EMILIANI
The Cumulative Humanities Project is a rite of passage for Kent Place juniors. The yearlong project, which combines American literature and history, provides a thorough introduction to conducting collegelevel research, writing, and presenting. It also provides plenty of learning opportunities, lifelong lessons — and satisfaction.
CHELSEA CUI ’25
BOOK On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous, by Ocean Vuong TOPICS EXPLORED Generational trauma, Americans’ perception of the Vietnam War, biracial identity
ARTIFACT 50 Cent’s “Many Men (Wish Death)”
CYPRESS ZEINERMORRISH ’25
ANNA GAMBUZZA ’25
BOOK All the Light We Cannot See, by Anthony Doerr TOPICS EXPLORED Media literacy, indoctrination, selfexpression as resistance ARTIFACT Enigma machine
BOOK There There, by Tommy Orange TOPICS EXPLORED Agency of Native women, the occupation of Alcatraz ARTIFACT Jaune Quick-toSee Smith’s painting Trade (Gifts for Trading Land with White People)
JENNA SMITH ’21
BOOK On Walden Pond, by Henry David Thoreau
TOPICS EXPLORED
Transcendentalism, privilege, the civil rights movement
TODAY Student at Duke University
MADISON STEVENS ’25
BOOK As I Lay Dying, by William Faulkner TOPICS EXPLORED The patriarchy, Okies, societal expectations ARTIFACT Dorothea Lange’s photograph Migrant Mother
GRACE WILLIAMS ’25
BOOK Beloved, by Toni Morrison
TOPICS EXPLORED Mental freedom, Reconstruction, how oppression shapes identity ARTIFACT The Wiz
VANESSA LEE ’24
BOOK On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous, by Ocean Vuong TOPICS EXPLORED
Generational trauma, Agent Orange, the opioid epidemic
ARTIFACT Triphenyl phosphate (a toxic chemical in nail polish)
TODAY Student at Vassar College
KEERTHI JAYARAMAN ’19
BOOK American Pastoral, by Philip Roth
TOPICS EXPLORED Student protests of the Vietnam War, the American pastoral, the Newark riot of ’67
COLLEGE University of Pennsylvania
TODAY Senior associate at Quadrant Strategies
LILLY FANELLE ’23
BOOK How the Garcia Girls Lost Their Accents, by Julia Alvarez
TOPICS EXPLORED
Disorientation, the immigrant experience, the Age of Conformity
TOPICS EXPLORED The rise of the Ku Klux Klan and the NAACP, racial identity, antisemitism
COLLEGE Brown University
TODAY Intimacy coordinator
BY NINTH GRADE,
Chelsea Cui ’25 had heard the stories: About analyzing scholarly articles and writing annotated bibliographies. About revising outlines again and again, and drafting three essays. And about standing in front of their peers to present on topics ranging from the connection between nail salons and Agent Orange to West Side Story and conformity.
She knew about the deadlines — and the time commitment.
“I remember that when I was a freshman, I was super scared of becoming a junior because I didn’t want to go through the Cumulative Humanities Project,” Chelsea says. “All I heard was people talking about how much work it is and how difficult it is to get through.”
Known as the CHP, the interdisciplinary project is the most comprehensive at Kent Place. It begins at the end of sophomore year, as students select their books from a list of 111 American novels, and spans the entire junior year. By the start of senior year, each student has written three essays for a total of approximately 20 pages — a literary criticism, a historical analysis, and a synthesis — and delivered an oral presentation on an artifact that brings them all together. The result, and indeed the entire process, is college-level work.
Chelsea is hardly alone in her fear. The word most students (and alumnae) use to describe starting the CHP is daunting. Yet by the end, as students submit papers, conclude presentations, and transition to senior year and then college, those feelings shift. Then, they’re able to focus less on the pressure of completing all the work and more on what they got out of it, which is overwhelmingly a sense of pride and confidence in their writing, research, and presentation skills.
“I’ve had a lot of conversations about the CHP and Kent Place with friends,” says Joey Massa ’13, who was among the first cohorts to undertake the project and is now a Brown University graduate. “During one, I learned a close friend had written only four- or five-page papers in high school. It made me remember how prepared I felt for college and writing long research papers.”
Here are insights from five seniors who completed the project last year and six alumnae on everything from selecting their books and their most difficult moment to what they’re most proud of now that they’re done, what they learned about themselves along the way, and how this most daunting of projects has prepared them for life after Kent Place.
THE BIG DECISIONS
The deliverables and deadlines are the same for everyone, but every other decision is driven by the students. From which book to read to the focus of the papers and presentation, each student has the freedom to pursue her passions.
“I distinctly remember being in the hallway with a friend and listing every possible interest. I mentioned my passion for nails, which started in second grade. Having your nails done is associated with girlishness, but the nail industry is dominated by Vietnamese and other Asian immigrant women and involves dangerous chemicals. It was cathartic to be able to present that topic in such an academic and serious light. I actually wrote my college essay about how doing my nails impacted my view of feminism.”
“For my English paper, I was set on the fact that I was going to write about how Addie Bundren is symbolized by her kids as different animals. My English teacher Ms. Dwyer suggested focusing on how the cow represented the patriarchy, and I thought that was really interesting.”
I was fortunate enough to see a presentation my sophomore year of There There. I wanted to use the CHP to take a deeper dive into the history of Indigenous peoples.
“At the time, I was a big fan of alternative history novels."
“Even though most of the story takes place during slavery, Beloved mainly focuses on its aftermath. I wanted to go deeper into Reconstruction and how slavery shaped how Black people felt about themselves and their power.”
“My mom really loved the book, which was a big part of why I chose it.”
“For the English portion, I knew the Vietnam War changed white Americans’ perceptions of Vietnamese Americans, but I didn’t really know to what extent. My history portion of the CHP really helped me understand this dynamic, which plays a huge role in the novel.”
GRACE
MADISON
CHELSEA
CYPRESS
BUNMI
JOEY
VANESSA
“I created a giant spreadsheet that was organized by topic, title, and page count. I knew I didn’t want anything over 350 pages. Once I narrowed it down, I went to Barnes & Noble with my mom, read the first few pages of each, and chose Alvarez’s book because of its vignettes and varied perspectives.”
“For my presentation, I wanted to incorporate something I’m interested in. In my Cryptography class, we learned how the Enigma was considered the greatest encryption device of its time. That really inspired me to tie in secret messaging and preserving the integrity of information.”
“A TV show I watched around that time used a quote from Walden, likely one of the classic ones about living deliberately.”
“I landed on Philip Roth because he’s from New Jersey, and I thought the local references would be interesting to me.”
THE CHALLENGES
As the hallmark assignment that all Kent Place students undertake, the CHP comes with plenty of pressure. There are the deadlines and the feedback, but there’s also learning how to balance the demands of the project with other coursework, extracurricular activities, and leading their lives.
“In the history portion, trying to consolidate all of the evidence I collected into a five- to seven-page essay was overwhelming. In class, we talked a lot about scope, that you want it to be narrow enough where you can get to the heart of your argument, but not too large that you’re all over the place. The issue is complex, which is part of what made it fascinating, but weaving everything together concisely but still doing the issue justice was challenging.”
“I live an hour from school and I’m a rower, so I leave my house at 6:45 a.m., come home at 8:00 p.m., and would sit down at my computer and work until 11:00 or midnight on my CHP. I was consumed by it.”
“I was most anxious before we even started. As a STEM person, I’d never written that much before.”
“I was involved in the school plays and was stressed figuring out how to fit everything in. My teachers did a great job of breaking up our deliverables, but there was always pressure at the end.”
JENNA
KEERTHI
LILLY
ANNA VANESSA
CYPRESS
BUNMI
JOEY
THE REVISIONS
“I spent hours on my annotated bibliography, but the articles didn’t reflect my whole thesis, so I had to go back to the database and look for more. That feedback was really helpful in the end.”
KEERTHI MADISON LILLY GRACE
The Cumulative History Project encompasses more than three written assignments and an oral history presentation. It also offers 11th-grade English and history teachers — who are currently Jennifer Dwyer, Tim Maset, Bridget Cooper, and Lawrence Seid — a chance to assess and evolve requirements. Here’s how Kent Place faculty, since the inception of the CHP, have ensured that students receive the best education and have the best learning experiences.
“I was so stressed any time there was a deadline coming up.”
“I was nervous about presenting in front of my peers and how my presentation would go — if I would go over the time limit and meet all the correct requirements. But when I was actually up there speaking, it wasn’t as nerve-wracking as I thought it would be. It went by pretty fast.”
“A giant snowstorm hit New Jersey when our paper was due Everyone’s power was out for two weeks. Our teachers were super understanding, but I remember working in the mall because it was the only place that had Wi-Fi.”
2010
Julie Gentile and Rick Morey, then department chairs of English and history, respectively, collaborated to combine what were previously two unrelated independent research papers due at the same time. Introduced during 2010–2011, along with an oral presentation, the CHP leverages the interdisciplinary opportunity, spreading out assignments over the year.
2012
Part III — a short paper — was added, requiring students to introduce a new topic or discipline and synthesize how their history and literature projects inform and complicate each other.
2016
The oral presentation was modified. Instead of presenting their papers, students now choose a new artifact, text, concept, theory, or issue and place it in context with their literary or historical research.
An annual trip to Rutgers Library was initiated to teach students how to use external resources and librarians to find relevant materials.
While partnering with the library since its inception, a formal workshop was instituted walking students through the library’s database and how to cite sources and documents through a research lens.
2018
In an effort to better showcase students’ work, the June CHP Symposium was introduced as a way for juniors to present their oral projects to the entire Upper School.
2021
The book list was revised to offer students “an opportunity to see a reflection of themselves in a greater number of works,” says Ms. Dwyer. The updated list, featuring 111 books arranged by title and identity, comprises classic and contemporary works.
THE SURPRISES
The CHP provides students an opportunity to delve into literature and history more than they ever have before. Along the way, it also deepens their understanding of the past, themselves, and their capabilities.
“We had so much autonomy to choose what we researched, analyzed, and wrote about. I didn’t have to go looking for specifics. I could just kind of see what came up.”
“ Turns out I can write a really, really long paper. This year showed me I’m a good writer and widened my options for the future.”
“I learned there’s this thing in international human law where you can’t rule on anything based on hindsight, as long as it was justifiable in the moment. It’s something they used in the Nuremberg trials. And it makes sense — not retroactively punishing people for what we didn’t know — but it’s crazy to think about how much has been excused and brushed away because of it.”
“I learned how to maintain my power and strength no matter who I’m around. Because, of course, in Beloved, when Sethe was surrounded by people from Sweet Home and white people, she acted from fear, as compared to when she was at home with her Black family.”
“I remember going into the process having a very idealistic notion of Thoreau, but it wasn’t the life-changing book I hoped it would be. Instead of letting that be a disheartening experience, it really informed the way I approached my papers, challenging me to think critically about the literary canon and who we lift up — and who we had the opportunity to lift up.”
“There were many pop culture references in my book, such as Tiger Woods and rappers I know. I thought it was really fun to recognize the famous people he was talking about.”
“I was surprised at how collaborative the project is. Yes, the work is independent. It’s our thoughts and ideas. But the process is collaborative. From our teachers to librarians, there was someone helping us every step of the way.”
GRACE
VANESSA
CHELSEA
CYPRESS
ANNA
JENNA
KEERTHI
THE BENEFITS
Learning about literary criticism, historiography, and presentation skills is the purpose of the CHP. But it also provides valuable lessons ranging from time-management skills and college preparation to ethics and confidence.
“I learned criticalthinking skills, how to use my teachers as resources, how to workshop with my peers, and how to really dive deeper into a book than I would ever have thought possible.”
“Doing this in high school really helped prepare me for college because now I’ve been through the process and know what does and doesn’t work for me.”
“I recently wrote a chapter for a book called Dramaturgy of Sex on Stage in Contemporary Theatre. I hadn’t done that type of academic writing or research in a while, but I felt empowered to take a leap and knew I’d be able to figure it out. That attitude definitely started for me in high school with projects like the CHP.”
“Looking back on it, the CHP was an experience I was proud to talk about in college and going forward. I was 16 and wrote this thing I’m really proud of. I did my own research. I did an oral presentation. This was all my work and my doing. It makes me feel proud about myself and what I was able to do at such a young age.”
“The CHP gave me a lot of confidence, knowledge, and tools like finding the scope of your argument and how to craft that argument in a way that’s organized and effective.”
“Going into college, I know there’ll be a lot more of these bigger assignments, and now I know I can persevere.”
“At the time, the skills didn’t seem super transferable, but I constantly use them.”
“I recently watched the movie Beloved with my mom, who
loves
it. Discussing it with her and my grandma opened up a new realm of people I can talk to, especially since it’s such a well-known book.”
“I really want to pursue economics. A lot of that has to do with decision-making, and All the Light We Cannot See taught me a really powerful lesson of what factors to consider when you make decisions and how to make decisions that are honorable and show integrity.”
“When I first got to college, I got a lot of compliments from professors about being ahead of my peers in terms of being able to write a very dense, very academic research paper. Because of the CHP experience, I had that preparation.”
GRACE
CHELSEA
CYPRESS
JENNA
KEERTHI
ANNA
MADISON
VANESSA
BUNMI
JOEY
KEEPING PACE KEEPING PACE
CONNECTING THE KENT PLACE FAMILY
Outgoing
Dear Alumnae,
I hope this letter finds you well and that you had a fantastic summer of relaxation and joyful moments with family and friends. As the warm days give way to the crispness of fall, we at Kent Place are excited to reconnect with our vibrant alumnae community.
This summer, Jennifer and I did some traveling and met many of you. Each visit reinforced the strength and warmth of our alumnae network, and we were delighted to hear your stories and celebrate your accomplishments. As we embark on our school’s 130th year, we carry with us the spirit of those encounters, enriched by your experiences and insights.
I’d like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the outgoing Alumnae Board president, Brooke (Jacobsen) Lessinger ’05, for her leadership — her vision has been instrumental to the involvement of our alumnae community. At the same time, we’re pleased to welcome the new president, Beth Oliva ’97, who has served with distinction as vice president of the Alumnae Board for the past two years. We’re confident that her passion will continue to drive our alumnae association, building on the strong foundation laid by the amazing women who came before her.
I also want to express my excitement that Hallee (Branin) Dangler ’96 P ’26 ’28 ’30 is this year’s Parents’ Association presi-
dent. She is a dedicated and enthusiastic volunteer, and champions Kent Place to our community in powerful ways. We also welcome KPS Middle School Counselor Joan Wilson ’93 P ’25 to the Mission and Vision Committee, a subcommittee of the Board of Trustees. It speaks volumes about the lifelong impact of a Kent Place education that these remarkable women serve the school with such devotion.
Our 80 newly minted alumnae are enjoying their first few weeks of college around the country (and across the Atlantic!). One of our new initiatives, the Big Sister 2.0 program, is already making a significant difference in their transition. This program pairs our recent graduates with alumnae near their colleges/universities to help them acclimate to the area and this next phase of their lives. If you’re interested in volunteering to be a resource for a young alumna, do get in touch with me, at brooksc@kentplace.org.
Our mission — to empower girls to advance the world — is more relevant than ever. The impact of our alumnae in a wide variety of fields, from the sciences to the arts, to healthcare and social services, to business and industry, is proof of the enduring value of a Kent Place education. We encourage you to stay involved with your alma mater, as your support plays a crucial role in enhancing the experience of every one of our 670 students. Our school is thriving, and your ongoing contributions help us maintain this momentum.
Thank you for being an integral member of our community!
Warm regards,
Coral Butler Brooks Chief Advancement Officer
Alumnae Board president Brooke (Jacobsen) Lessinger ’05, Coral Butler Brooks, and new president Beth Oliva ’97 during Alumnae Weekend
Full Circle: Alumnae Connect and Inspire on Campus
Connection shines bright within our alumnae community. Kent Place graduates embark on diverse paths but often find themselves drawn back to the familiar grounds they once called home. They return to impart wisdom gained from their professional experiences and the desire to give back to the school where they established their foundation.
Following is a sampling of alumnae who came to campus during the 2023–2024 academic year, bringing a wealth of experiences, perspectives, and lessons from the real world. Through engaging panels, thought-provoking discussions, and one-on-one interactions, our graduates are key to strengthening engagement around mission-aligned topics such as leadership and enriching our students’ education.
Thank you to these alumnae and the many others who continue to inspire and guide the next generation of brave and brilliant leaders who will advance the world.
Alayo Oloko ’21 met with Kaleidoscopes, the Primary School affinity group for those who self-identify as students of color and others who want to take part in multicultural conversations. A former member of the group in Primary School and then lead mentor in Upper School, Alayo talked about her life as a student at MIT and recent trips to Japan and Africa.
Joy Jack ’16 (left) met with Upper School members of B.U.I.L.D. (Building Up Inclusive Leaders in DEIB). Joy, a diversity, equity, and inclusion data specialist at Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP, talked about her passion for investigating corporate organizations’ social responsibility and the practices that shape business leaders’ DEI strategies.
Children’s book author Amy (Meislin) Pollack ’70 (back) revisited where she was first inspired to write — the Kent Place Primary School. She read one of her books to the fourth grade and led a writing workshop to explore storytelling and foster creativity.
During the fall trimester, Head of School Jennifer Galambos welcomed alumnae each week to her discussion-based Leadership Seminar, which is designed to explore leadership with eighth-graders. Among the visitors were Katherine (O’Donnell) Lynch ’06 P ’37 ’39, Monica Giannone ’06, Brooke (Jacobsen) Lessinger ’05, Porscha (Dobson) Harnden ’03, Erin (McDonnell) Sundel ’11, Jachele Vélez ’07, and Caroline Lewis ’14.
Members of the Head’s Council share their time and expertise with Head of School Jennifer Galambos and KPS leadership to help further Kent Place’s mission and strategic objectives and serve as ambassadors of the school. On the council are pictured: Lori (Arthur) Stroud ’75, Christine (Chambers) Gilfillan ’84 P ’19, Eleanor (White) Durling ’72, and Deborah Farrington ’68, Chair. Not shown: Gretchen (Pfaff) Riley ’66 and Catharine (Green) Snowdon ’70.
Amelia Leonards ’03 returned to campus to conduct portfolio reviews, show her work, and answer students’ questions about life as a professional artist.
Hallee (Branin) Dangler ’96 P ’26 ’28 ’30 spoke at the Sophomore Ring Luncheon and shared mementos from her time as a student. Hallee’s daughter, Reilly ’26, received her ring at the ceremony.
KENT PLACE FALL 2024 43
Sky-bound: From New York to Brussels with Captain Samantha (Kiernan) Bradford ’92
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a commercial airline pilot? More specifically, a captain? And, remarkably, a female captain for an airline at which just 1 percent of the 16,000+ pilots hold such a position? We asked Samantha, a captain for Delta Air Lines flying Boeing 757/767 aircraft, about her career and a typical “day” on the job.
As a child, I enjoyed plane travel, reveling in the freedom and excitement during takeoff and landing. At Hamilton College, as a French major, my passion for flying and travel grew during my junior year abroad in Paris, when I explored other cities in Europe on weekends and during holidays. The turning point came on a flight home to New Jersey after my senior year at Hamilton. While plugged into the airplane audio system, I heard a female pilot’s voice and felt an immediate spark of inspiration. Until then, I hadn’t realized that an aviation career was feasible for women. That moment launched my career journey.
I enrolled in a flight school at Morristown Municipal Airport, obtained my ratings, and in 1999 embarked on my first commercial airline job, flying small regional aircraft. From there, I set my sights on flying 747-400 freighters, some of the largest airplanes ever built. In 2010, I achieved my dream job at Delta Air Lines, initially as a
A Three-Day Journey from New York to Brussels
DAY 1
MORNING: I prioritize rest to prepare for the upcoming red-eye flight. Rising around 9:30, I start my day with tea and fruit. I press my shirt, pack any last-minute items, ensure that my work iPad is fully charged and updated, and squeeze in a quick Peloton workout. Staying fit and maintaining a nutritious diet are crucial. Once on the road, finding healthy meals and time for exercise can be challenging, due to jet lag and long hours.
LATE AFTERNOON: On arriving at JFK, I stop for my ritual tea latte before heading to the Delta pilot lounge, where I meet my two first officers (there are three pilots for a transoceanic flight).
Safety considerations, weather updates, flight time, routing, and other pertinent matters are thoroughly discussed. We board the aircraft and I brief the flight attendants. Today, we have a full passenger load of about 215, with eight flight
first officer, then upgrading to captain in the winter of 2022.
As in any other profession, it required hard work, and in this career, there was the necessity to “prove” myself and work even harder to succeed in a male-dominated field. My experience at Kent Place, both in the classroom and on the athletic fields, helped me with the teamwork, communication, and multitasking skills as well as the confidence needed to advance as a pilot.
Today, my home base is Southampton, N.Y., and I fly from JFK Airport, a Delta hub, on routes spanning California, the Caribbean, Hawaii, West Africa, the UK, and across Europe. Although I enjoy flying to various destinations, my top picks are France, Italy, and Spain. Flying to California is equally enjoyable, with a lot less jet lag!
The industry has undergone significant changes over the past 25 years, and I believe exposure is the key to increasing the number of women who choose a career in aviation. I have many friends who are mothers and pilots, nicely balancing their careers and families. Aviation offers flexibility in terms of scheduling, allowing pilots to choose how many days and what routes they fly. My work may keep me engaged for 12 to 15 days each month, but I relish the freedom during my time off. I hope to inspire more women to pursue this amazing career and all the opportunities that come with it.
attendants. We’ve never met, and there’s the possibility that I won’t fly with most of them in the future.
EVENING: We settle in to prepare the flight deck, making sure all necessary checks are completed, coordinating with the dispatcher, and confirming fuel levels. With boarding complete, we push back from the gate and ascend to the northeast, cruising over New England and the coastline of Maine and Nova Scotia before piloting out over the vast Atlantic, bound for Europe. I deliver the announcements regarding seat belts and potential turbulence. Darkness takes over outside and we monitor our instruments and air traffic while the autopilot navigates our course.
Following a short rest period and light meal for each pilot, the flight deck gradually brightens from the soft glow of dawn breaking on the
horizon — a breathtaking sight. Crossing into Ireland, it’s now daytime and we have a view of Dublin from 37,000 feet, followed by the familiar sights of London and the English Channel before descending over Dunkirk and arriving at our destination: Brussels.
We deplane, and our crew make their way to the shuttle feeling a little weary from the long flight. When I get to my hotel room, I draw the curtains and set an alarm for a well-deserved four- to five-hour nap.
DAY 2
AFTERNOON: Up and about, I do some stretching, then grab a shower and cup of tea in my hotel room.
I join the other pilots and some flight attendants and head to central Brussels, a short walk from the hotel. There, I visit my favorite choco-
late shops, selecting gifts for friends and family back home and, of course, some treats for myself. We tour the city, always making sure to pass through the magnificent Grand-Place. We stop at my favorite restaurant for moules frites (mussels and fries) and indulge in authentic Belgian waffles, followed by a refreshing walk back to the hotel.
EVENING: I know the importance of getting ample rest to recharge for our flight back home, so by 10:00 p.m. I’ve switched off the lights, aware that jet lag will likely disrupt my sleep.
DAY 3
MORNING: A wake-up call from the front desk comes one hour before our scheduled shuttle pickup, just enough time to get up, pack my belongings, grab tea and a snack, and get ready to head home.
Gathering with the crew in the lobby, we make our way back to the airport. Once there, I purchase a few last-minute duty-free items and perhaps a yogurt or salad, a welcome change from the airplane food.
Boarding the aircraft after a review of weather conditions, flight routes, fuel reserves, and turbulence reports, we set off once again. Our path takes us over familiar landmarks: London, Dublin, skirting just south of Iceland, and back down over Canada and Maine and eventually New York. As we descend, if it’s a clear day on Long Island, I can even spot the courts where my friends and I play pickleball.
Touching down at JFK around 2:00 p.m. local time, I navigate customs and return to my car for the two-hour drive home.
A successful ocean crossing, as we say, and I look forward to doing it again soon!
215 Passengers on the flight from New York to Brussels
8
Flight attendants
3
Pilots present for a transoceanic flight
7,334
Miles (round-trip) from New York to Brussels
Delta Air Lines Captain Samantha (Kiernan) Bradford ’92
Jess Myers ’09
Jess Myers ’09 is a tenure-track assistant professor at Syracuse University’s School of Architecture. She holds a BA in architecture from Princeton University and a master’s in city planning from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
“[Maya] Lin’s career has knit together art and architecture, structure and land, in projects defined more by subtlety than flash. This appealed to me enormously as she explained it in the dim of my middle school auditorium. The fact of this lecture may surprise the reader, as Lin does not often subject herself to the public eye. (After months
of inquiry I could not even get an interview for this piece.) How she came to be in the auditorium of a private girls’ school in Summit, New Jersey, is anyone’s guess, but the school had a fund for such lectures and even landed astronaut Sally Ride one year . . . I would later come to understand this lecture to be rare in the field as well. Rather
than parade through self-advertisements and post-rationalizations, Lin thoughtfully discussed her approach and methodology, as if addressing established practitioners rather than fidgeting twelve-year-olds. The [Vietnam] war memorial was a small part of the lecture, in which she mostly discussed her land art and installations of swells and waves. But one work she presented stuck with me in particular and, later, with my commute. For a few minutes, Lin talked about a 1994 work called Eclipsed Time, an installation in the barrel-vaulted ceiling of the LIRR concourse in Penn Station. The piece was essentially a clock, a fitting addition to a place called into existence by timetables. But rather than measuring passing minutes, it mimicked that twice yearly phenomenon of the new moon aligning with and thus seeming to obscure the sun.”
The above is an excerpt from “Eclipsed on the Concourse,” an essay I wrote for Urban Omnibus in fall 2023. When writing that piece, it occurred to me that I had been thinking about a lecture I saw in the Kent Place Field House for more than 20 years. Maya Lin made such an impact on me because she pursued architecture in the strangest and most expansive terms.
I started Kent Place in Middle School after years of being bullied at my elementary school, where I was one of very few Black students. At Kent Place I was also one of a handful (something I hope has changed), but what I appreciated about my time there was that I could be kind of a weirdo with relatively little fuss. In my work now, I’m technically an assistant professor of architecture, but to accomplish that I’m also an urbanist, a podcast producer, an essayist, an editor, a researcher, a curator, an organizer, and occasionally a sound artist. I do a little too much, not that different from my school days. But to be able to do these things — for them even to occur to me — it has always been important to be a bit strange and also not be stifled in that strangeness. Unfortunately, from my vantage point in the university, we live in stifling times. I hope very sincerely that Kent Place is still a place where one’s particularity, positionality, and sense of criticality can still be cultivated.
1940
Kent Place received word that Barbara (Day) Dugan P ’66 passed away peacefully on May 19, 2024, in her home in New Vernon, NJ, at the age of 101. Our condolences to Barbara’s daughter, Nicki (Dugan) Doggett ’66, and the rest of her family as well as her friends.
1942
Emily (Churchill) Wood emily_wood46@hotmail.com
1947
Anne (Campbell) Dowell annedowell@triad.rr.com
Kent Place thanks your loyal scribe, Anne (Campbell) Dowell, for her many years of dedicated service as Class Secretary. She has done a won-
In Memoriam
Barbara (Day) Dugan ’40 P ’66
May 19, 2024
Cornelia (Landon) Russell ’46
April 8, 2024
Betty (Correll) Durling ’47
April 12, 2024
Eleanor (Rathbone) Nichols ’47 February 5, 2024
Nancy L. Purdy ’47 January 31, 2024
Nancy (Vreeland) Waits ’47 January 27, 2024
Janice (Phillips) Pell ’49 June 14, 2024
Virginia (Cox) Tulloch ’56 January 11, 2024
Jean (Wilkinson) MacDermid ’58 March 7, 2024
Missy (Burke) Partridge ’63 P ’89 March 28, 2024
Karolyn Blume ’70 July 16, 2024
Mary (Ward) Manley ’74
February 15, 2024
Marcia Dunn ’79 December 18, 2023
derful job staying in touch with all of you and sharing your news with your classmates and the rest of the KPS community. We’re deeply grateful for her commitment to her alma mater.
Our number has really dropped these past years and those of us left can keep up with one another without a class column. We’ve had many good years of information from all our classmates and we’re thankful for that. But this will be the last 1947 write-up from me in Keeping Pace
Evelyn (France) Kalagher lives in a nice retirement home in Bennington, VT. Her house has a pond out back; two geese just delivered a gosling and are taking good care of it. Evelyn is frustrated these days with so many changes, such as computer problems and a new cell phone, but is glad staff can usually help. Her area had very little snow this year — not even enough to make a snowman. Her niece lives just an hour away and often visits; her nephew lives out west and calls every week. Evelyn cooks for herself and can pick up from the clubhouse if there’s something she wants. She still drives her Subaru but may sell it, as insurance is so high. She turned 94 on May 17, so she’s probably the youngest in our class. Kathanne (Harter) Webster likes her retirement home in Dedham, MA, on the Charles River. Her daughter, Lucy, moved from Europe and bought a house in Bristol, RI. It’s only an hour from Kathy and Lucy stays with her a lot. There’s a very nice garden near Bristol that they both enjoy. Kathy gets around her retirement home using her walker. Her grandson is coming for three months and will use Kathy’s car and stay with Lucy. Kathy is vice president of her Wellesley class. They’ll all go to Lake Webster this summer — it’s not far from Dedham.
Sue (Savage) Speers has a busy time ahead of her with three weddings. She’s going with her three sons to Lookout Mountain, GA, where son Sam will officiate at the wedding of his nephew: Carter Speers to Leighton Durham. They’ve been together for many years. Carter’s parents gave them a lovely set of plastic glasses with their initials and one word on it: FINALLY. In July, they go to California for Carter’s brother’s wedding. In 2025 Sam’s daughter, Dare, is getting married. Sue keeps busy at
Kendal at Hanover, her retirement community, in New Hampshire. For two years she’s been secretary of its Residents Council. She’ll be at her house on the lake this summer, with much of her family visiting.
Helen (Preus) Mairs lives in a retirement home in St. Paul, MN. Preusy says she tries to walk a couple of miles each day. She’s in the Sage Singers group, which meets weekly. They’re rehearsing songs from Broadway musicals. “It’s now spring,” she writes, “so we’ll enjoy eating out at our pub. Eldest daughters are Heide, who was an engineer with Exxon and is retired in Houston. Elizabeth worked on cyber security for Excel-energy. Now she runs on weekends and rows at the Minnesota Boat Club. Julie is in Indian Wells, CA, and is a physical therapist. She’s ‘my gal ironman’ and races here and there. Son Rob lives in Edna, 20 miles away. He and his wife, Aimee, have two boys: Joe will graduate from Middlebury and work for an investment company in Minneapolis; Will is a freshman at Washington University in St. Louis. He plans to major in English and will be at the London School of Economics this summer. Maybe they’ll all get to our cabin on Lake Superior, where I’ll probably spend my 95th birthday, if I’m lucky.”
I, Camby, am doing okay in my retirement home in Winston-Salem. I love my small, three-bedroom house with a sunroom and deck out back looking into woods, where I often see deer. I go to the pool and exercise classes every day, play bridge on Friday evenings, walk my little dog, and often eat with friends at our clubhouse. I still drive my Subaru, mostly to church or the grocery store. I’m lucky to have two daughters here — Kathy lives six miles away and Sarah is 15 miles away. Our third daughter, Betsy, is in Portland, OR, where she’s been for 30 years. We phone every day and she comes here twice a year. All the girls are so good to me.
We’ve lost five classmates in the last six months. Bobbie (MacWhinney) Schneidewind passed away in her home in Atlanta on October 31, 2023; Nancy (Vreeland) Waits in Winter Park, FL, on January 27, 2024; Nancy Purdy in her retirement home in Basking Ridge, NJ, on January 31, 2024; Eleanor (Rathbone) Nichols in
In Remembrance
Virginia (Cox) Tulloch ’56, Trustee Emerita
Vicky passed away on January 11, 2024, in Vero Beach, FL. Volunteerism was Vicky’s career. In addition to serving Kent Place as a Trustee and then Trustee Emerita, she led with distinction in Summit, as president of the Junior League and the Summit Child Care Center; executive director of the United Way of Summit and New Providence; a member of the Community Health Care Committee for Overlook Hospital and the Adele Lynch Scholarship Fund Committee; and as a trustee of the Convalescent Fund. Among her civic contributions were City of Summit census coordinator, Zoning Board member, advisor to the mayor, prime mover for a new City Hall, and tireless advocate for the community use of Wilson School. She was also very active in Vero Beach and on Nantucket, where among her accolades, she cofounded and served as president of Grand Harbor Audubon, and was elected the first female president of the Siasconset Casino Association, respectively. Our condolences to Vicky’s family and friends.Our condolences to Vicky’s family and friends.
Nancy L. Purdy ’47, Trustee Emerita Nancy passed away on January 31, 2024, at the age of 94. She served on the Kent Place School Board of Trustees from 1999 to 2002, and in 2002 received the Barbara Wight Biddison ’30 Distinguished Alumna Award in recognition of her exceptional dedication to the school and leadership in her academic, professional, and volunteer pursuits. Nancy earned her BA from Vassar College and was vice president/group head for a major advertising firm in New York City until her retirement. Nancy was a longtime member of the Cosmopolitan Club of New York City and the Thursday Morning Club in Madison, for which she served as a committee chair and on the board. She was also on the board and a committee chair for the Vassar Clubs of New York and Jersey Hills. Our condolences to Nancy’s loved ones.
her retirement home in Charlotte, NC, on February 5, 2024,; and most recently Betty (Correll) Durling at her home in Whitehouse, NJ, on April 12, 2024. We’ll miss them all so much, and send our sympathy to their families.
I’ve enjoyed keeping up with all of you over all these years. If you’d like, give me a call, (336) 768-5880, or send me an email, at annedowell@ triad.rr.com. Best wishes to all.
1948
Caroline (Price) Hemmings: I’ve moved into assisted living at Kendal in Lexington, VA. They take very good care of us!
We’re a dwindling bunch. We turned 90 in the last year. People look at us and say, “You look great for 90!” Hmmm. It’s a nice compliment, but then we look in the mirror and think, Really? We spend hours making doctor appointments, then going to doctors and physical therapy. We exercise and keep our minds active. We’ve lost parents, friends, and sometimes other family members. We are survivors and ever grateful for our friends and families, for great-grandchildren who are arriving, and for living a good long life. Below is the news, and I thank each of you for writing in.
Alvene (Farrell) Carpenter: All is well with the Carpenters. I’ve turned 90 (yikes!) but happy to have made it. Larry is no longer playing golf or driving and relies on a walker to get around. I’m doing well, not acting my age.
Dulcy (Lee) Green: My granddaughter Jessie Conway ’04 flew from Orléans, France, for her reunion at KPS. She had a wonderful time with quite a group of her classmates and her sister, Dulcy Conway ’07, who graduated a few years after Jessie did. I turned 91 in February.
Becky (Kincaid) Mathewson: Doing great here in California. I’m in the middle of a three-year term as a church presenter at the Fullerton Christian Science Church. I have
two services a week so am very busy. Company seems always to be coming and two great-grandchildren have been added to the family tree. Wishing joy to all.
MJ (Cabrera) Shaw reports that she spent the winter getting workmen to fix up her home in Stowe, VT, a house that’s beautiful but requires a lot of upkeep. She’s saving it for a granddaughter who wants to live there. Golf is MJ’s life in spring, fall, and summer. We talked about how much grandchildren appreciate having a grandmother, and how we seem to give them roots and hope for their own long lives. That’s really something, isn’t it?
The Churchill clan is all doing fine. I’ve had a great year in West Palm Beach, still very active playing croquet and grateful every day. I lost three longtime KP friends in the last year: Sally, Joyce, and Hennie, and before that Janet McGee, Ann Smith, and Betty Emery. So many laughs and memories. Best wishes for relative good health. The motto now: “Onward — sideways!”
Molly (Harding) Nye: We love living in Brookhaven, a CCRC in Lexington, MA. We’re busy with life here as well as continuing with our interests outside of Brookhaven. Joe goes to Harvard a couple of times a week. I’m involved with LexArt, working with clay, and with the Lexington Historical Society. We’re gearing up for the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution.
Judith (Miller) Colie: The seven of us from Kent Place who went to Wells College received sad news. After 156 years, Wells is closing. We didn’t have warning of the immediacy of the trustees’ decision and most of us are devastated. I’m grateful that Kent Place is still strong and that what it offers to young women is still valued.
1958
Margot (Atwood) Wilkinson: I have very sad news. My sister-in-law, Jean (Wilkinson) MacDermid, passed away on March 7, 2024. I know she had many friends from Kent Place. Her family will miss her dearly.
1959
Elizabeth (Budd) Bugliari bugliarie@gmail.com
Bundy (Harding) Boit: I lost my husband, Bob, last October. He had had an interesting life in banking here and abroad and loved every inch of our rural-Maine farm. Our three boys, Nick, Sam, and John, have been a huge support. John and Kate moved to Penobscot in 2022, so I have two grandchildren, 17 and 10, right at the end of our driveway. I continue to be in touch with Lynne (Kolarsey) Blair, Betsy (Carpenter) Betts, and Sue (Murray) Johnson.
1960
Anne (Sonnekalb) Iskrant anne@iskrant.com
I’m moving from my house of 46 years to a retirement community not far away (emphasis on community). Might be able to collect notes from classmates in the fall, but not possible this spring. I’m also helping organize Smith’s 60th reunion for Memorial Day weekend.
1961
Doris (Hodges) Heiser: Ed and I had a great year with lots of travel. Most recently we went to Jersey, in the Channel Islands, to meet up with a group of international friends. Two highlights: seeing Elisabeth “Bitsy” (Lamb) Persson in California and soon seeing Stephanie (Grosso) Gartner in New York City.
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Louise (Hall) Grauer louise.a.grauer@gmail.com Missy Burke Partridge: 1945–2024 We were saddened to hear of Missy’s passing. She started freshman year at KPS with enthusiasm, grace, and generosity, qualities she exhibited throughout her life. Shanny remembers that Missy gave a party to introduce her to her friends from the Short Hills Day School who were starting as freshmen with her. During our years together at Kent Place, she was a loyal and supportive friend to all of us. With her athletic and leadership skills, she served as president of the Athletic Association. Her school spirit was infectious. Her accomplishments after Kent Place were many and far-reaching and she continued her support of our alma mater. In 1985, she became
the first woman to chair the Board of Trustees. She and Louise went to Vassar together, and they continued their friendship through their college years. Missy was remarkable: a contender and an intrepid soul. She will be sorely missed.
—Nancy “Shanny” Schieffelin and Louise (Hall) Grauer
Nancy Schieffelin: I’m busier than when I was working: photographing for three nonprofit organizations and doing my part to preserve democracy and elect Biden. Taking photography workshops, some with Louise (Hall) Grauer. Skiing, playing tennis, paddle tennis, and pickleball, cycling, sailing, hiking, coaching ice hockey: keeping the old body moving. Reading and listening to audiobooks: keeping the mind active. Five grandkids in the mix. Hard to believe I turn 80 in June. Twenty-minute power naps, a supportive husband, friends, family, and being goofy make it all possible.
Mary (Brennan) Gerster: Alec and I divide our time between Rowayton, CT, where our son and daughter and their families live, and Manchester, VT. I have a small barn we converted to a painting/print studio and it’s my “she shed” happy place (Alec has his tractor). Our son Brennan and his family have been living in Berlin for two years and are home at the end of June. They traveled every weekend. I had my first (and probably last) art exhibition in August. I’m not comfortable selling my work, but I did sell most pieces. I’m happy sharing with family and friends and donating to local nonprofit auctions. I’m working on Irish citizenship (my grandparents are all Irish-born) in case things go south in November! Time has flown by too fast.
Mary Solmsson: The time I spent with Missy was mostly on the hockey field or basketball court — we always had a great time playing sports together. I know she is a great loss to Kent Place — she always stepped in and helped where it was needed. I still live in Scottsdale, AZ — 54 years, wow. Never thought I’d stay in one place this long. But my stay here will be ending about a year from now when I’ll be moving to Virginia to be with my family on a beautiful property with horses, dogs, kids — lots of activity with my children and grandchildren. I can hardly wait.
Meanwhile, I work at my church, sing in the choir, and play handbells every Sunday. I have a very good life and am so grateful for all those around me.
Jean MacGregor: A year ago, Rob and I moved “into town” from our mountaintop aerie above Puget Sound. We’re very happy to be at a senior living community filled with interesting neighbors, many of whom we’ve known for years in the greater Olympia/Tacoma/ Seattle area. I love singing in the Olympia Peace Choir and continue to support climate-solutions curriculum development in the state’s system of community and technical colleges. Life is full and fulfilling, but the larger political scene in the nation and world feels quite daunting at times.
Louise (Hall) Grauer: Since I’ll turn 80 next year, I have to say that things are different these days! I feel lucky, though, to play tennis and platform tennis, hike with my black Lab, Gabby, ski, paddleboard, and kayak, most of these things with my husband, Ferdy Grauer. I’m also lucky that my daughter, Alexa, and her two girls, Rosie and Elsie, all live in Boulder. I get to go to soccer games, music recitals, Boulder High productions, and now graduation for Rosie, who’ll attend Wellesley in the fall. Son Aaron and his wife and two children live in Portland, OR, and parttime in Bend, OR. I had a show of my photographs at the Dairy Arts Center, in Boulder, a year ago, which was very exciting.
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Gail (Giblin) Flynn gailgiblin29@gmail.com
1965
Dr. Janet B. W. Williams jbwwny@gmail.com
Jane (Kolarsey) Kusterer: Things got quiet after we returned from our wonderful trip to Nova Scotia last August to celebrate two milestone birthdays (75 and 90!), but I was able to do a Christmas visit to Chicago in early December to see my sweet grandson and we’re getting ready for a family beach week mid-June, so that will be wonderful. I’m still in charge of my church group, Seniors Share, which meets twice a month with guest speakers, discussions, and, of course, pickleball.
In Remembrance
Honoring a Trailblazer: Remembering Missy Burke Partridge ’63 P ’89
With a heavy heart, we learned of the passing of Missy Burke Partridge ’63 P ’89 on March 28, 2024. As the first woman and first alumna to serve as chair of the Kent Place Board of Trustees, Missy was not only a trailblazer but also a visionary leader whose contributions have left an indelible mark on our school’s history. Her dedication, intelligence, and commitment to excellence inspired all who had the privilege of working with her. As we mourn her loss, we also remember and celebrate her remarkable legacy, which will continue to inspire future generations.
Missy graduated from Kent Place in 1963 and served the school as an alumna, Trustee, parent, and staff member for decades. In 1971, she was elected to the Alumnae Board and began her volunteer service at Kent Place. In 1975, she joined the KPS Board of Trustees. When Missy’s daughter, Caroline (Partridge) Horner ’89, enrolled at Kent Place, Missy added parent volunteer to her résumé. In 1985, Missy became the Board President. She retired from the Board in 1990 and received the Barbara Wight Biddison ’30 Distinguished Alumna Award as a testament to her outstanding service to the school.
In 1992, Missy returned to the community as Director of Alumnae and Parent Relations. She recognized the importance of connecting with Kent Place alumnae and helped expand the school’s outreach. Upon her retirement from that role, in 1997, the Partridge-Hurley Scholarship Fund was established to benefit the children of alumnae and employees who attend KPS. In 2003, she was again honored, this time with the Alumna Community Service Award.
Even after her “official” roles ended, Missy continued to attend events and support the school as a donor, champion, and friend. She cared deeply about her alma mater’s past, present, and future, and was a source of institutional knowledge for those who worked at the school after her, having lived and breathed Kent Place for decades. Our thoughts and condolences are with her husband, David, their children, Caroline and Sam, and her many family members and friends.
Missy gave her heart and soul to our beloved alma mater, and she brought more alumnae into supporting Kent Place than anyone else I can think of. I credit Missy for getting me involved with Kent Place once I moved back to the East Coast. Her enthusiasm and creative vision for KP was infectious. I traveled with her around the country when she was head of alumnae relations, and it was wonderful to watch the ease and loving spirit with which she attracted alumnae to keep in touch with the school and to give back in any way they could. It was because of her leadership as Kent Place’s first female and first alumna Chair of the Board of Trustees, along with her energy in growing the Alumnae Association and fundraising, that Emily Meschter ’60 and I created the Partridge-Hurley Scholarship Fund, to mark the retirement of two very special individuals.
—JUDY (TANSEY) HUNT ’61
THEN & NOW: MABIE HOUSE STEPS
“I’ll meet you at the Mabie House steps!” Almost as iconic as its door, these steps have been walked up, run down, and sat on by decades of students, gathering to eat lunch, hold a club meeting, or take a milestone picture, you name it. And we’d also venture to guess that there’s never been an Admission viewbook without a picture of students on the steps, such as this
throwback from the late ’80s. Today, as long as it’s not raining or snowing, you’ll see countless Middle Schoolers sitting on the steps at midday.
When you think of the Mabie House steps, what comes to mind? We’d love to hear about it; please email communications@kentplace.org.
It’s been an especially eventful year for me (Janet). About a year ago I lay on an OR table to get one knee replaced. However, a random MRI from the week before had just come through and revealed an AVM (arteriovenous malformation) sitting on my brain. It needed to be removed before the knee surgery, so I was pulled off the table and scheduled for brain surgery that week. I had no symptoms but couldn’t risk taking blood thinners after the knee replacement. I had the AVM removed, during which there was a lot more bleeding than expected, which caused a cerebellar stroke that day. And I’ve been dealing with it ever since. The cerebellum affects your balance, and the stroke itself changed a lot of things. My hearing decreased by 20 percent, I lost my sense of smell
and taste for a while, and my speech slowed down (but never stopped). I often have double vision, and I have to learn to balance while I walk again. This has put me in all kinds of therapies! At least now I no longer need aides living with me, but I can’t yet drive.
On the positive side, I’m able to do yoga and have just started Pilates, which I love. The biggest drag is not driving yet — it’s very expensive to take cabs everywhere! I did eventually get the knee replaced without a problem. And I’m so lucky this was discovered before it caused permanent damage, lucky it was discovered in time to remove it, lucky I can still talk and walk (somewhat), lucky I can afford the treatments, and lucky that most of my cognitions are intact. So that’s been my life this year!
The other thing I have to tell is that I’ve put down a deposit at a unique retirement community about an hour south of Seattle (called Panorama). There’s a five-year waiting list, but at least I’m on it! Kids and grandkids are all thriving, and doing a wonderful job helping to take care of me.
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Linda “Lindy” (Burns) Jones finallylbj@gmail.com Dear Classmates, I think of you all around the world, doing amazing things. Thanks for sending your news! I, Lindy, have had a busy year, dealing with Gerald’s ongoing cancer treatments and attending our four grandsons’ hockey games. A most joyous event was our daughter Courtney’s wedding, on February 3, to Sheldon Spyker, with five of
my KPS classmates in attendance. I’m still active on the board of Mass Audubon and with our Congregational church, and pray daily for our country and peace.
Nia (Eldridge) Eaton: October brought our 75th-year birthday celebration at Sweet Briar College (COVID canceled our 50th reunion and we didn’t want to wait too long). Lyn (Barr) Hoyt and I had a special time reconnecting . . . hearing her sing brought back so many good memories. Took a trip in February to Myrtle Beach and Charleston, and living the dream as a docent at Winterthur & Brandywine Museum (Wyeth family). Coming up, my boxer boy is closing in on his championship and is a joyous companion. Feeling fortunate and love the Class of ’66 Zoom calls Betsy manages to pull off for us!
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Barbara Wiss barbarawiss@gmail.com
I never cease to be amazed by the talent, skills, athleticism, artistic capabilities, and the many paths we’ve traveled. I’m so pleased to be connected. Thank you for sharing.
Nizette Brennan writes that her son, Rock, is a paralegal for a finance and securities firm in San Diego, goes for “cold-water” swims in La Jolla, and enjoys skiing at Mammoth. ZZ, Nizette’s daughter, is pursuing her career as a sculptor and installation artist in L.A. and is an art professor at LBCC, CSLB, and the College of the Canyons. ZZ’s studio practice incorporates stone carvings, welded-steel sculptures, lasers, and other light and media. Nizette continues her lifelong work as a sculptor and educator and manages the Sculpture Studio at Glen Echo Park, which she founded in 1984. Glen Echo Park is a mere 15-minute drive from me — I need to visit!
For Addie (Bernheim) Firtel, life is a whirlwind of grandchildren (ages 1 to 25), quilting, painting, and dogs. No wonder she admits to feeling old when in the company of the two youngest grandchildren. Addie writes that Riley, who will be 25, is a wonderful person, as is her artist brother,
Griffin. Bobby, Addie, and the dogs enjoy their smaller home without steps. The Firtel family love their dogs and are adding some rescues to the mix. Addie, please keep us posted on any new additions to the family.
Jackie (Baird) Fiala is in Aiken, SC, running a golf outing for 20 gals. Jackie plays once or twice a week and claims her scores are “pretty average.” Really, Jackie? I’m impressed. Jackie and her husband, Jim, live in an “active” community, south of Charlotte and close enough to see their daughter and her adorable girls, ages 6 and 2, frequently. Jackie’s son lives in Colorado Springs and works for USA Archery. His 16-year-old son attends the Air Force Academy High School, where he plays football and is in Junior ROTC.
Mimi Pantuhova (PsyD) and her husband have retired to Little Compton, RI. They enjoy going back and forth to Boston to see friends. In Rhode Island, they like hiking in the woods and on the shore; the ocean; the farm coast; and the music and art scene. Mimi paints in her barn studio (#mimipantuhovastudio) and her husband writes poetry. Their daughter works in Cambridge, MA, as a bartender and in event management. The happy and active retirees enjoy traveling. They took a
weeklong boat/bike trip in Croatia, went across the Adriatic to Venice, and recently visited Jamaica.
Anne (Hawley) Morgan says hello from northern Minnesota. She says she’s coloring her gray and staying busy making Secret Garden soup mixes. Anne also helps her son raise and sell organic produce at a farmers’ market. In her spare time, Anne is still writing romances and is revising one with a time-travel theme. One granddaughter is studying marketing and communication in college and another is in her first year of theater production. A third is a junior in high school; she’s tall and shy and loves to cook. Her grandson is almost 12 and plays a mean game of Five Crowns.
Cathy (Stickney) Steck has had a busy year. There have been trips to London to visit Emily and to Denver to visit Will, a summer in beautiful Belvedere, CA, which morphed from settling into her home of 40 years to being buried under the tedium of clearing out all that had been collected over the decades and then putting the house on the market. Cathy is now permanently and happily in New York City, enjoying all the city has to offer and delighted to be almost equidistant from her two children. Emily is still pursuing
a creative life, writing, directing, and acting — and, of course, waiting for the big break. Will is a partner and managing director at CCIG, a Colorado insurance company; clients who are NHL players are his specialty. He also opened a restaurant (Jacques, in LoHi, in case you’re in Denver) with two friends, and the product is spectacular. But the most important news is that he’s going to be a dad. He and wife Kat are expecting a little girl in late October. Cathy is thrilled! She was in D.C. in April for a very fun family reunion with sisters Carolyn (Boyce) Gregson ’70 and Amy Boyce ’72 and while there had a delightful catch-up lunch with Patti (Rossiter) Ravenscroft. She, Carolyn, and Amy have a daily New York Times Wordle and Connections competition. “Love to all, and if find yourself in New York City,” she says, “please let me know. It would be great to see you!” Laura (Griffith) McDermott is busy playing golf croquet, in both Florida and Vermont, as well as canasta and bridge on a catamaran in the British Virgin Islands, and cochairing the Riverside Theatre spring celebration for 400 with her sister Fran (Griffith) Laserson ’66. Recently, Laura and daughter Lauren celebrated their birthdays in Turks and Caicos by parasailing by day and in the
A FOUNDER’S LEGACY LIVES ON THROUGH GREAT-GRANDDAUGHTER BARBARA (MOORE) VAN ZANDT ’66
Frank L. Crawford, a prominent figure among the founders of Kent Place who served as president of the Board of Trustees for 25 years, continued a tie to the school through his great-granddaughter Barbara (Moore) Van Zandt ’66. Among the first students at KPS were Frank’s three daughters: Lesley, who graduated in 1904; Constance, who graduated in 1907; and Dorothy, Barbara’s grandmother, who also graduated in 1907 after accelerating a grade. Dorothy’s graduation dress is preserved in the Kent Place archives.
Frank Crawford wrote about his role in the school’s inception: “I was one of a small group of men who met in 1893 to plan a suitable private school for girls in Summit. Out of this movement grew the Kent
Place School, opened in 1894, of which I became a trustee in 1895, Vice President of the Corporation in 1913, and President in 1917.” These recollections are chronicled in his Morris D’Camp Crawford and His Wife, Charlotte Holmes Crawford; Their Lives, Ancestries and Descendants, published in 1939.
Mr. Crawford’s leadership and dedication are further documented in his historical account “The Kent Place School,” published in 1940: “Since 1917, I have been consistently re-elected to the presidency, currently serving in my 24th year. Witnessing the remarkable achievements of the school throughout my enduring tenure has been one of the most gratifying experiences of my life.”
How proud this founding father would have been to know his great-granddaughter graduated many decades later from the institution he held in such high regard.
Cheers to the Years
On April 26–27, we welcomed Kent Place alumnae for a very special weekend. More than 100 women, from the Class of 1964 to the Class of 2019, gathered on campus to mark significant reunions, rekindle friendships, celebrate accomplishments, and revisit cherished memories. The following pictures capture the spirit of the events and the joy that was shared.
1. The Class of 1974 celebrated its 50th reunion: (standing, l–r) Laurie (Fritzinger) Muldoon, Susan (Nightingale) Seiler, Jamila (Bess) Johnson, Marcy (Holmes) Stalvey, Buffie (Dougherty) Halle, Cynthia (Azoy) Rooke, Annette (Quick) Coy, Betsy (Clausen) Quinn, Cindy (DiMauro) Henderson, Debbie Disston, Lynn (Stoddart) Pierce, Barbara (Zenker) Parker, Anne (Seidler) Lehigh, Cathy Slichter, Patsy Dimm, and Liz Cheng; (sitting, l–r) Joan Bogert, Amy Armitage, Bev (Cincotta) Newell, Marky Hall, Kathy (Jacobs) Crowther, and Sandra (Mangan) Nestler.
2. Lots of smiles
3. Saturday-morning brunch provided updates on the work happening at Kent Place. Here, 1984 classmates Ali Gant, Amanda Lannon Ward, Chrissy McMahan-Springer, and Alex Meyers learn about the school’s plans for the future.
4. The DEIB Alum Council hosted a career panel moderated by Maya Lobban ’12 (right) and featuring Winifred Smith-Jenkins ’94, Alex Krupp ’06, and Nya-Brielle Earrusso ’12.
5. Green Key guides took alumnae on tours around campus, showing them classrooms, the science labs, the library, and music rooms. Here, 2019 alumnae explore the Center for Innovation.
6. The Class of 1974 joined fourth-graders for a Pen Pal tea and discussion of Kent Place then and now.
7. Marcy (Holmes) Stalvey takes a walk down memory lane in the archives.
8. The celebration culminated on Saturday evening with cocktails, dinner, dancing — and hugs galore!
9. 2019 classmates demonstrate their moves.
10. A great showing from the Class of 2004
11. 1999 classmates having fun in the photobooth
12. Members of the Class of 1974 were welcomed into the Wisdom Circle, a distinction bestowed on alumnae on the occasion of their 50th reunion, at a dinner hosted by Head of School Jennifer Galambos. Alumnae who already received this honor accompanied them.
13. Cheers to the Class of 2014.
14. 2019 classmates celebrating their first KPS reunion
15. 2009 classmates reconnect.
16. and 17. Saturday’s brunch recognized two alumnae for their achievements: Marky Hall ’74 (left), recipient of the Barbara Wight Biddison ’30 Distinguished Alumna Award, with Head of School Jennifer Galambos; and Nicole (Lamparello) Terzis ’04 (right), winner of the Alumnae Professional Achievement Award, with past Alumnae Board president Brooke (Jacobsen) Lessinger ’05.
HONORING EXCELLENCE IN LEGAL WRITING: SUE LIEMER ’76
Sue Liemer ’76, associate dean at Elon University School of Law, received the 2024 Association of American Law Schools’ Legal Writing, Reasoning, and Research Section Award. As a longtime professor and administrator who has continued to guide the growth of Elon Law’s Legal Method & Communication program, Sue was honored with this national award for “outstanding contribution(s) to the field of legal writing, reasoning, and research” in January 2024, when professors and
evenings playing Rummikub with Laura’s husband, Rick, and Lauren’s husband, Billy.
Gail Shearer, another grandmother extraordinaire, recently lost at Match to her 5-year-old twin grandsons in Boise, cheers on the sidelines of her granddaughter’s soccer games and her grandson’s basketball games in Bethesda, and runs after four little boys and a dog in Boulder. In her spare time, Gail gardens, plays bridge, and has an interest in her family’s genealogy and history.
Kathy (Van Cleve) Kuhns writes that the family continues to thrive and multiply. Jack was made a managing director at Morgan Stanley and Joe’s healthcare private equity fund is growing. Kathy and John now have four granddaughters. Casey just finished his first year of business school and is engaged to his Georgetown girlfriend, whom they all love. Dylan is in his second year at the Naval Airbase in Iwakuni, Japan. On their visit last year, Kathy and Dylan traveled to Honshu
law school leaders from across the United States convened in Washington, D.C., for the country’s largest annual meeting for legal educators.
Accomplished professors representing five law schools coauthored a nomination letter that detailed Sue’s prolific contributions to the field of legal writing. The letter described her as “a national leader” with “few peers and no superiors.” The most striking feature of her career, they wrote, has been her “indefatigable support and
on Japan’s amazing train system. “I fell in love with the country, people, and food and look forward to my next visit,” she writes. “Dylan spends six months of the year on the USS Ronald Reagan, the ‘Ronnie.’ We’re thrilled that he’ll be spending the month of August in Nevada training at the Top Gun school.”
Congratulations to Cricket (Zoephel) Lockhart and husband Jim, who celebrated their 50th anniversary two years ago. Cricket and Jim are very involved with the Bruce Museum, helping to create a larger and more interesting art/science museum in Greenwich. Cricket is still involved with the Greenwich United Way and her garden club. Their two kids and spouses live locally, with five grandchildren, ages 6 to 12. They do a lot of babysitting, go to games and performances, and especially love the sleepovers. In summer, they spend time on Nantucket with the two families. They’re beginning to travel again and have been to the western
mentoring” of new teachers and directors.
Sue’s writing has been published more than three dozen times, with a majority of articles centering on legal writing and her other scholarly interests in intellectual property. She has been widely cited by other scholars of legal writing as the author of landmark articles in the field, her nominators wrote, with dozens of presentations at conferences, schools, and other organizations.
coast of Scotland and later went on a cruise to the Shetland Islands and Orkney, mainly doing prehistoric sites, then a Norwegian fjord, and ended on the southern coast of Iceland. All amazing! They also saw a lot of volcanic sites while visiting her brother in Bend, OR. “We’re sort of retired,” she says, “but seem to be as busy as we were pre-retirement. We feel fortunate to have our families close by, even if it’s exhausting!”
I received a very nice note from Marjorie Shoemaker, who had been quarantining with COVID and was pleased to receive a December surprise email about STAR.
A message from Wendy (O’Brien) Smith on social media says she’s an artist living in Arizona and that her hair is pink. Mine is gray. Please do tell us more.
I, Barbie Wiss, learned euchre in anticipation of playing at a family outing to Cape Porpoise, in Maine, for Christmas Prelude. We sang carols at the lighting of the town tree,
watched the most amazing fireworks, and made Christmas wreaths. I seriously miscalculated the materials needed, so brought home a suitcase full of evergreens.
At home, you can find me walking in the woods and throwing sticks for a dog, playing bridge, puttering in the garden, arranging flowers, trying to learn ikebana, and occasionally tackling the endless task of decluttering. I’m in awe of our classmates who have accomplished this task already. For an adventure, I’m going to the Telluride Mountain Film Festival to see the premiere of a documentary based on Maggie Doyne’s memoir, Between the Mountain and the Sky. 1969
Gay (Garth) Legg gaylegg@gmail.com
I can’t believe it, but I now have six grandchildren, all under age 6! My son and daughter-in-law, living in Carlisle, MA, had fraternal twin boys right before Christmas, which
“My father, Bill Pettit, worked at WCBS News and arranged for Ballast staff to interview Walter Cronkite, the CBS anchor referred to for decades as everyone’s ‘Uncle Walter.’ My father advised me that if at any point the conversation lagged, I should ask Cronkite’s opinion of Spiro Agnew, then Nixon’s vice president, who was on a crusade against the media (‘nattering nabobs of negativism,’ he called them). As I recall, I did mention Agnew, Cronkite responded with a single very brief sentence, and my heart sank as I scribbled notes about the interview. Then he launched into a lengthy discussion of the importance of freedom of the press. My father told me later that people kept walking past Cronkite’s office while we were there (for longer than expected!), trying to get him ready for the evening’s news broadcast and asking, ‘Who’s in with Walter?’ Cronkite was wonderful to us, and at the end of our time, he posed with us and an issue of Ballast.”
—JEANNE
(PETTIT) FERRIS ‘71
1971 classmates and Ballast staffers Blake (Rimbault) Zoephel, Jeanne (Pettit) Ferris, and Nancy Nims with Walter Cronkite
added to their two girls and means lots of fun. Daughter Phoebe’s two girls are right up the road in Marblehead. We’re happy to travel from Baltimore to babysit and it’s great to spend more time at our house on Cape Cod. I’m still working on projects involving the Garden Club of America, for the Smithsonian Archives of American Gardens. If you have a garden you’d like to have documented and included in the collection, please let me know. I’m still doing lots of floral design — I won a second prize at the Philadelphia Flower Show. If you’ve never been to it, put it on your calendar for early March. It’s amazing! Love to all.
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Harty (Platt) du Pont hartleydupont@aol.com Lisa Schmucki lisaschmucki@gmail.com
I thought it’d be nice to remember classmates who are no longer with us before beginning on the brighter side. We’ve lost Tina Sharts, Liz (Fox) Franke, Melanie White, Marianne (Rooke) Fairall, Helen (Mayhood) Ball, Ann Gordon, Jackie (Engel) Payer, and Peggy Nusser. I’m sure when reading the names, memories, good memories, come to the fore.
First to reply this season was Jeanne (Pettit) Ferris (thank you for stepping up to the plate!). She visited Longwood Gardens, in Pennsylvania; Nemours Estate, in Delaware; and New York City with daughter Veronica and son-in-law Matt. “I highly (pun intended) recommend Summit One Vanderbilt in Manhattan: the views are fabulous! And Longwood Gardens are full of beauty and color. The nearest town, Kennett Square, PA, is called the Mushroom Capital of the World. I especially like one of the town’s slogans, ‘Shitake happens.’”
I tracked down Barbara (Stevenson) Rorke through Facebook. She writes, “Thanks for reaching out. I’ve lived in Colorado Springs for 34 years. I have four children and four grandkids. I still work part time and my hobbies are pickleball, hiking, and paddleboarding. I was a skier but not so much now. I took two
major trips this past year, one to Alaska, which was fabulous, and one to Amsterdam, where my youngest daughter and her husband live.”
Gail (Campbell) McBride writes, “I sit on our quiet hill over the ocean [and here I sit looking out my rainy North German window] listening to records from the ’60s and ’70s [yes!] as I repair an old quilt. We live close to Morro Bay, in California, surrounded by cattle but are half a mile up from the water. We plant native trees and bushes and enjoy the bunnies and the birds. It’s a simple life, not fancy. We support the local theater, musicians, and wine! I have two adult sons and two darling grandkids and they live nearby.” Gail enjoys gardening, cooking, and playing tennis a couple of times a week.
Debbie Besch is moving out of Texas after 50 years for many reasons, but 109 degrees last summer contributed greatly. She and her husband, Tyler, plan to live in Maryland.
Linda (Gordon) Mancini started anew too, in Florida, with her husband, Nick. They’ve been together for 42 years and are now permanently settled in the Ocala area. “I’ve had a huge laminectomy and fusion in my neck and am trying to get my life back,” she says. “My new theory is to enjoy what time I have left.” Amen to that!
Barbara (Weiger) Lepke-Sims writes, “In July 2023 my entire family met in Destin, FL, to celebrate my big birthday and have a family reunion. I included a picture with my sister, Lucy Weiger ’69 and her husband, Bob; my husband, Mike; my older son, Stephen, and his family; my younger son, Tommy, and his family; and my brother Jimmy and his family. In October 2023, I went to Rhode Island to visit my brother. Blake (Rimbault) Zoephel and I met at Yale to have lunch and look at their museum. I’m still playing my harp at various events and hospitals and teaching harp at two local universities. I’ve started learning pickleball and golf.”
Robin (Cavallaro) Webber writes from Mt. Tabor, NJ, “I’ve been preoccupied with evaluating, donating, repairing, scrubbing, or painting everything I haven’t needed to notice for the last many years. Why? Because I’ve probably lost my mind: I told the Historic Society they could include
our house on a tour in September. I hope that after the yard and the house are spruced up, I’ll still be standing! We shall see.” Sounds like quite a workout, Robin! Keep us posted. I had a long chat with Rosie Dackerman. She still works full time as executive director of the Single Parent Resource Center, which is based in New York City. In addition, she volunteers as a longtime member of the New York Junior League and is chair of the Decorative Arts Committee at the National Arts Club. This May marked the fourth anniversary of the passing of her partner, Andrew Slaby, from COVID-19.
Pinny (Bristol) Kuckel and her husband, George, returned from their yearly spring getaway, Amelia Island, FL, to Deansboro, NY, home since 1978. Summers are great, she says, and a visit would be welcomed. In June 2023, they threw a “70th-Something Party,” she says, “and saw lots of local friends we hadn’t seen in years. We still have a volleyball group that plays in our backyard every summer (more than 35 years), although we just watch others play now.” Pinny is working on her second children’s book about Freddy, the baby moose. Freddy’s Gifts is available on Amazon. For the planning of her 50th Middlebury College reunion, Pinny caught up with Kathi Paton via Zoom.
In October, Pam (Baker) Harding’s daughter Tory is expecting her second child. Tory, an archaeologist, lives in the Hudson Valley with her husband, Teddy, and Finley. Pam’s other daughter, Kimberly, is a landscape architect in Austin. You can find Pam and Dan either in Basking Ridge, Florida, or Mantoloking, depending on the season.
The two of us across the ocean, Michèle Ory and I (Jamie), have similar views on what’s happening in Europe, the Middle East, and the States, not to forget the global climate catastrophes. She and some friends visited Cambodia, where, she says, “you realize how little they have and how much we have.” Soon, she’s off to Ireland.
I love retirement! Who doesn’t? I can read all the books I want and spend way too much time trying to stay in the Diamond League of Duolingo (French). Oh, what would Mr. Sachs think? For more serious undertakings, I’ve been volunteering
at our local food bank since 2000 and have been the chutney/marmalade maker for Kaffee Marlene, in Berlin, for five years. It’s organic vegan/ vegetarian. Sister Emily, having been promoted to publishing director of
NANCY (GORMAN) DOUGHERTY ’82 P ’12 NAMED AIA NJ
2023 ARCHITECT OF THE YEAR
Nancy, a managing partner at Studio 1200, received recognition for her exceptional contributions to architecture, community service, and mentorship. With more than 30 years of experience as a LEED-accredited, licensed architect, she is renowned for her design expertise, particularly in downtown buildings that rejuvenate communities. Notably, Nancy has provided her talents to numerous civic organizations, such as JESPY House, The Door, Jersey City Veterans Housing, the YMCA, and Greenwood Gardens. She is committed to mentorship, having nurtured relationships with NJIT’s Hillier College of Architecture and established an internship program at Studio 1200.
Beyond her professional work, Nancy is involved in community initiatives. She cochairs the Residential Committee for the South Orange/Maplewood Coalition on Race and serves on the Executive Committee and Strategic Planning team for Greenwood Gardens. She’s a member of Impact 100 Garden State and a sponsor for SparkNJ, supporting Black-led charitable organizations in northern New Jersey. Previously recognized as one of NJBIZ’s top 50 Women in Business and a ROI-NJ Real Estate Influencer, Nancy continues to make an impact through dedication and leadership.
Nancy and classmate Lisa Manshel ’82
Hanser Blau, is finally moving to Berlin from Munich. Only three hours from Klaus and me: whoopee!
1973
Lisa Krieger: I spent April trekking in Nepal, which was an extraordinary experience. By taking things nice and slow, we safely arrived at base camp (15.5k feet) of the gorgeous mountain Ama Dablam, with views of Everest and the entire eastern Himalayan range. I’m still working in journalism but have stopped teaching, to allow more time for friends, volunteering, and outdoor adventures.
Debbie (Peet) Riplinger: Not much new to report. My husband and I had a fantastic, four-week trip to the United States in March/April
Marriages
Jaqueline Altieri ’04 to Ryan Daniels April 30, 2022
Sophia Gouraige ’09 to Connell McGill March 23, 2024
Mary Libera ’14 to Patrick McAnally December 10, 2023
Mia Wright ’14 to Henry Cooper Real January 6, 2024
Births
Jaqueline (Altieri) Daniels ’04 a son, Peter Ryan Daniels October 3, 2023
Taylor (Worthington) Williams ’07 a son, Hudson Worthington Williams February 8, 2024
Nadja Yacker ’07 a son, Caleb David Graham August 2023
Jenny (Ellis) Lee ’09 a son, Logan Lee January 11, 2024
Cassidy (Bommer) Tierney ’09 a daughter, Penelope “Nellie” Tierney February 16, 2024
and loved seeing so much family. Next up, we’ll have our three sons with us here in Switzerland this summer. It’ll be the first time we’ve all been together since 2014, and the first time the grandkids from Bali will meet their American cousins, so that will be the highlight of our year. Best wishes to all and hoping there’ll be a class trip to Switzerland planned for next year!
1974
Cathy Slichter cathy.slichter@gmail.com
Kent Place received an email from Scott Ward informing us of the passing of his sister, Mary (Ward) Manley, on February 15, 2024. Our condolences to Mary’s family and friends.
1975
Patti Neale-Schulz pattischulz1919@gmail.com
Greetings, Class of 1975! Sit down and brace yourselves for the following announcement . . . drumroll, please . . . Believe it or not, next year is our 50th reunion! Save the date for the big event, which will take place April 25–26, during Alumnae Weekend. We hope to have a really good turnout, so do mark your calendars. More information to come. Looking forward to seeing everybody!
1978
Patricia (Friedman) Marcus balibliss@yahoo.com
1979
Peg (Houghton) Kennedy maggie9194@gmail.com
Thank you to Peg for volunteering to return as your next Class Secretary. You’ll be hearing from her about Class Notes for future issues.
Peg (Houghton) Kennedy: I’ve settled in Annapolis with my husband, Peter. We have four grown children, all living out of the house. Jared is in West Hollywood, Mel is in Richmond, VA, Emily is in Brooklyn, and Liam lives on his boat, docked down the street from the house. I retired in June 2023 after 22 years as an elementary school counselor. Retirement is everything I imagined it would be and more! I stay in contact with Lauren (Manshel) Miller, Alison (Bingel) Walsh, Lauren (Forman) Phelps, and Sarah (Slosser) Zmistowski.
Kent Place received word that Marcia Dunn passed away on December 18, 2023. Our condolences to Marcia’s family and friends.
1981
Kathryn (McDaniel) Nenning kathryn@nenning.com
1982
Nancy (Gorman) Dougherty P ’12: The Class of 1982 turns 60! Check out the photo section to see some of our classmates during this milestone year.
1984
Jennifer Thomas meezertee@gmail.com
Sue Faux: It’s been forever since I’ve submitted anything, so this is a catch-all catch-up. I’ve seen my relative neighbors several times, in and around Boston: Alison Gant, Cathy (Eld) Hui, Cindy (Klein) Roche, and Judy (Walsh) Baumhover, and one dinner included Diane (Little) Sassano. There have also been Zoom sightings of Deborah Molho and Rebecca Wood. Still busy freelancing, and the highlight of the year was going to Japan for two weeks in October on a Boston Pops tour. My annual 15 seconds of fame usually happens during the July 4th broadcast from the Esplanade. Delightful to have 10 of us at the KPS reunion last April. Hope everyone is happy and well!
1986
Susan Gibson nibbles.inc@gmail.com
I went to Florida in April to visit my mom for her 92nd birthday, and other than that, I don’t have anything interesting to report about myself.
Caroline Constantinides-Jenkins is still living in Seattle and teaching kindergarten. “I love it,” she writes, “some of the best experiences of my life! Dwight and I are quickly approaching the empty-nest phase of our lives. Kate (20) lives in Ohio; William (19) just completed his freshman year of college; Molly (17) is a junior in high school but attends college full time; and James (16), a sophomore, is finally driving (watch out, PNWers!).”
Sarah (McFarland) Taylor has some nice news: “Just got the call the other night that my second book, Ecopiety: Green Media and the Dilemma of Environmental Virtue, won an award conferred by the Center for Religion
CAROLYN MONTGOMERY ’82 DEBUTS GIRLSINGER
The premiere of Carolyn’s show girlSINGER, a tribute to Rosemary Clooney, took place at the Birdland Theater, in New York City.
A multi-award-winning star of the concert stage, Carolyn showcased her talent with a worldclass band, among them members from Clooney’s own musical ensemble, and performed some of Clooney’s most iconic hits.
Following her debut at Birdland, Carolyn performed girlSINGER at 54 Below, in New York City, and will tour London, Los Angeles, Chicago, Boston, Philadelphia, Seattle, and beyond.
Carolyn has multiple MAC, BackStage Bistro, and Nightlife Awards for singing and songwriting, performing in New York City at Town Hall, Lincoln Center, Birdland, the Laurie Beechman Theatre, and major venues across the United States and in London. She is the executive director of the renowned American Songbook Association, producing concerts that feature Betty Buckley, Lillias White, and myriad jazz and Tony-winning Broadway artists.
& the Human at Indiana University. The Iris Book Award honors outstanding work offering new insights into the meaning of being human in relation to science, religion, and nature. The center’s mission is to foster collaborative explorations and scholarship around topics associated with what it means to be human in a world undergoing increasingly rapid social, cultural, and political change.”
Lauren (Kares) Harrison says, “I saw Lisa (Cohen) Lee in New York
City in January. We dined at Café Sabarsky and strolled around the Neue Museum. I see Sarah Taylor Rountree and Kathy Prendergast pretty regularly. My husband, Geoff, and I are empty nesters in Houston since our younger daughter, Lilly, went to CU Boulder and our older daughter, Layla, will have graduated from the Newhouse School at Syracuse University when this goes to print. We expect her to settle in New York City and pursue a career in advertising. I keep busy with my horses, a return to my childhood love. I’ve enclosed a photo of me with Hudson and Ozzy [page 62].”
1987
Ginny (Boyer) Losito glosito@me.com
Dana (Green) Carter Cataldi: After being out of touch for a bit, I was excited to attend a KPS event at the Hammer Museum, in Los Angeles, which reconnected me with amazing alums such as Laura Scarano ’06, Meena Patel ’88, and the list goes on. I live in L.A. (near UCLA) and run a real-estate brokerage. I thought at 54 I might be doing something a bit less intense but I love it. I have four kids and two stepkids, all between the ages of 20 and 30 — the oldest recently got married in Colorado. If you’re ever in the area, I’d love to see you!
Jennifer Dorsey: George and I are happy and healthy here in Albany, where I’m a professor of history at Siena College and a priest in the Episcopal church. In May we celebrated our son Casey’s graduation from Bentley University. With that big event, we’re officially empty nesters and making time for more vacations: Turks and Caicos in January, Punta Cana in May, and Vegas in August to see Bruno Mars in concert!
Lisa (Borden) Berkeley: I finished my third year as a professor at Boston University’s School of Communication. I unexpectedly really love teaching, and I do my best to channel a little bit of Dr. Cole in every class, though sadly class sizes are not conducive to letting students sit on the floor.
1988
Melissa (McCarthy) Madden melissamccarthy@me.com
1989
Vanessa E. King squamlake@gmail.com
1990
Maren (Eisenstat) Vitali mevitali@comcast.net
Although this wasn’t an official reunion year for the Class of 1990, many of us were able to gather with the Class of 1991 over a Zoom call on Founders Day. All the classes of the ’90s worked hard to raise money and it was so much fun to see everyone and catch up. I hope we can catch up even more at STAR this winter.
Spring has arrived and even though school is still in session, it’s been quite a year. I spoke at both the New Jersey and the Pennsylvania State Association for School Librarians’ conferences about the importance of incorporating maker space into school libraries and the curriculum. At one of my presentations was the organizer of the Annual Children’s Conference in Virginia, and I was asked to present there this summer. I can’t wait!
Kemba Dunham: I’m getting ready to be an empty nester (temporarily, at least) with both kids enrolled in college this fall. Both will be in D.C.: Khaya will be a junior at American and Nile will be starting his first year at Howard. I’m happy that they’re
Audrey Alix ’21 was at the American Geophysical Union conference in San Francisco, an international meeting that saw 22,000 attendees, where she presented on utilizing UAVs (drones) for ecological monitoring.
happy about being in the same city! Meanwhile, I’m trying to figure out what one does as a single gal in her early 50s :). I’m getting back into running after telling myself in 2018 that I was done with races. On the work front, I’m still at Block and learning all about Bitcoin, as the businesses I support with internal communications are focused in that area.
Audrey (Pukash) Bilsborrow: We have a school here in North Carolina that has three KPS alumnae families. I’m thrilled that Kate, the daughter of Chrissy (Lapp) Holladay ’88, and my daughter, Sasha, will play field hockey together in the fall for Durham Academy! Chrissy’s daughter will be an upperclassman by the time my youngest gets to DA, so Kate will overlap with Parlan too. Stay tuned for pics over the next several seasons. Let’s get Kent Place and Durham Academy on an exchange
program to play each other over a break. Graduation for May 2025 will include my son, Jet, and Whitney (Bell) Corbett’s son, Connor. Love it! Go Dragons and Go Cavaliers!
1991
Andrea (Carson) Tanner acarsontanner@gmail.com
Amy Allen: My first book of poetry, Mountain Offerings, was released in April 2024. I worked on the project with a small, female-owned publisher in Montpelier, and it’s been an amazing journey that’s enabled me to meet other local authors and host readings throughout Vermont. Classmate Karen (Engler) Bartlett attended my book launch in Shelburne. I was also named Poet Laureate of the town of Shelburne, a two-year position that involves outreach with local schools and organizations. The book is available from Amazon and signed
Congratulations to Marci Wolfish ’12, recipient of the 2024 Young Professional of the Year Award from the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, Greater New York Chapter. Marci was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease in 2008, when she was in eighth grade at Kent Place. She’s used her experience with the disease to become a fierce advocate for other inflammatory bowel disease patients, especially in the workplace. She’s been on the Young Professionals Board of the foundation for more than five years and served as president for three. “It’s important to me to be a resource and a safe space to help others navigate life with an invisible illness,” she says. “I use all of the challenges I’ve faced over the years to help reduce them for others.”
Marci was honored on April 8 at the 16th-Annual Comedy Night Fundraiser, benefiting the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, hosted by the Young Professionals Committee at the Gotham Comedy Club, New York City.
copies are available on my publisher’s website (Rootstock Publishing).
Katina Houvouras: This June, Karen (Engler) Bartlett, Liz Hines, Amy Allen and I had a great reunion in Vermont at Amy’s home in Shelburne and Karen’s home in Middlebury. It was so fun to show Amy and Liz our college town and introduce them to college friends who were there attending their Middlebury ‘94 reunion.
1993
Courtney (Mead) Nagle courtney.a.mead@gmail.com
Stephanie Burlington Daniels: I’m excited about taking my college theater students to London in June for a two-week culture and critique class to see nine plays, in honor of the Bob Pridham trip our class never got to take back in the winter of 1992. I hope to see as many of you there as possible.
Blair (Sachs) Hanewall: All right, ladies (said in the voice of pick-anyteacher), here comes 50! I’m embracing this reality but also amazed that so much time has passed. Fortunate-
Dragon Networking Event
ly, I’m happy, healthy, and grooving with life in Seattle. My focus is redesigning my life to be less intense and scheming a way to move to Greece long term (suggestions welcome). But for now, let’s raise our glasses to our historical milestone — here’s to us — and onward we go!
Victoria (Miller) Henderson: I’m enjoying my role as a researcher, psychologist, and mentor at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and was recently promoted to full professor at the Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania. Abby (14) and Jamieson (10) are thriving and keep me busy as a chauffeur for their activities. I was thrilled to spend several days with Francesca Quagliata at her home in Washington state in March.
Kris Juncker: Jane Herships’s shop, Other People’s Clothes, is opening a third location, this one in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.
1994
Christina (Dughi) Tonzola ctonzola@gmail.com
In late spring, alumnae gathered at the Penn Club in New York City for Kent Place School’s first Dragon Networking Event. More than 50 alumnae came together from a variety of industries, such as law, finance, television, and fashion.
To learn more about upcoming networking and mentorship opportunities, contact Lainey Segear, Senior Director of Community Engagement, at segearl@kentplace.org.
1. Isabella Smith ’14, Brianna Barrett ’14, Paulina Kachalova ’21, and Caitlin Tam ’21
KC (Anthony) Artemenko P ‘31 kcartemenko@gmail.com
1999
Iris Blasi iris.blasi@gmail.com
Cynthia Keenan cindy.keenan@gmail.com
2000
Christine Ryan ceryan@gmail.com
2001
Kimberly (Frye) Alula kfrye05@gmail.com
Sara Pickett-Tucker saralizpickett@gmail.com
2002
Erin Sauchelli e.sauchelli@gmail.com
2003
Gina Ferraioli ginaferraioli@gmail.com
2004
Laura Kleinbaum lkkleinbaum@gmail.com
The Class of ’04 had an amazing showing at its 20th reunion. We marveled that everyone is very fancy now and yet exactly the same, having not aged a bit. Our own Dr. Nicole Lamparello Terzis won the Alumnae Professional Achievement Award, and we also undoubtedly set a record for “The Class Who Spent the Most Money at the School Store.”
I write and executive-produce a musical animated show called Vida the Vet. It’s on Netflix; check it out with your kids! Also, my immersive musical House of Cleopatra was at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in August. Jessica Scott: Alumnae Weekend was fantastic. I really enjoyed seeing classmates I hadn’t seen in 10 or 20
years. I’m now an ophthalmologist/ glaucoma specialist in East Orange and working with my father. I ran into two fellow KPS alumnae, Bela Parekh ’14 and Sima Parekh ’17, at the Glaucoma Foundation Gala in New York City, where their father was the host. Bela will be joining the family profession and starting an ophthalmology residency this summer.
Hilary Sayia: I recently completed my MBA program at NYU Stern School of Business, specializing in strategy and marketing. Shortly after graduation, I embarked on a new position as the VP of media growth at Media.Monks.
Meghan (Brophy) Persutti: Our amazing Class of 2004 celebrated its 20th reunion last April. To kick off the weekend, I hosted a party, along with Laura Kleinbaum and Hilary Sayia, at my home. It was a great turnout and we all had a blast chatting, laughing, and reminiscing about our KPS shenanigans from more than two decades ago. There was something so special about being together again.
A huge thank-you to Tracy Chung, Jessie Conway, Megan Grobert, Suzanne (Bradley) Marineau, Hilary Sayia, Susan Shea, Nimaako Brown, Jessica Scott, Liz (Graham) Woolcock, Carey Roach, Meghan (Brophy) Persutti, Jacqueline (Altieri) Daniels, Leilani Smith, Kate (Hammond) DeOssie, Katie Jones, Cynthia (Wright) Haeler, Nicole Lamparello Terzis, and Sarah (Hansen) McLaughlin for traveling from both near and far (France! California!) to spend their weekend at KPS. For those of you who weren’t able to make it, you were sorely missed, but we’ll see you in 2029!
I’m also including an update for Jaqueline (Altieri) Daniels: She’s had a wonderfully jam-packed two years. She got married on April 30, 2022, to Ryan Daniels at the beautiful John’s Island Club, in Vero Beach, FL. What a spectacular day! Jessie Conway and I were both bridesmaids and Hilary Sayia was there too. Fast-forward a year and a half, and Jacqueline welcomed Peter Ryan Daniels, on October 3, 2023. He’s the most adorable and good-natured baby! Peter was baptized this past April and I am his proud godmother. Congratulations and best wishes, Jacqueline!
2005
Cara Manket cara.manket@gmail.com
2006
Danielle Auriemma dvauriemma@gmail.com
Lydia Deutsch lydia.deutsch@gmail.com
2007
Nida Abdulla nida.11.abdulla@gmail.com
Caitlin Black cblack@fandm.edu
Sara Santos sarajosantos@gmail.com
Taylor (Worthington) Williams: My husband, Tyler, and I welcomed a baby boy on February 8, 2024, named Hudson. He joins big sisters Emerson and Palmer.
Nadja Yacker: My husband, Connor Graham, and I welcomed our son, Caleb David Graham, in August 2023.
2008
Allison Oberlander oberlander.allison@gmail.com
2009
Courtney (Alpaugh) Simmons courtney.simmons513@gmail.com
Allison Goldberg afg813@gmail.com
Nicole Coscolluela: I’ve started a new position at Duke University in the Department of Classical Studies doing administrative work. I’m also going into my third season as a beekeeper.
Sophia (Gouraige) McGill: On March 23, 2024, I tied the knot in Palm Beach, with my four best friends from Kent Place standing by my side.
Cassidy (Bommer) Tierney: I work for Kaiser Permanente in Oakland as an OB/GYN. My wife and I have two kids, Oslo (age 2) and Nellie (3 months), and we just bought a house in Albany, CA (just north of Berkeley).
Jenny (Ellis) Lee: My husband, Andrew, and I welcomed our baby Logan in January.
2010
Carly Uhlman carly.uhlman@gmail.com
2011
Lizzy Miggins lizzymiggins@gmail.com
PAST. PRESENT. FUTURE. In June, former presidents of the Alumnae Board came together for the passing-of-the-gavel ceremony. This tradition occurs every two years to thank the outgoing president and welcome the incoming one. Please join us in thanking Brooke (Jacobsen) Lessinger ’05 for her service as Alumnae Board president and welcoming Beth Oliva ’97 to the position.
Beth Oliva ’97, Brooke (Jacobsen) Lessinger ’05, Katherine (O’Donnell) Lynch ’06 P ’37 ’39, Lindsay (Mohr) Mader ’03 P ’31, Maria (Fekete) Brugg ’98 P ’28 ’30, Suzy (Shearer) Whitehorn ’81 P ’14 ’16, Meyra Green ’64, and Allison (Erenstein) Jacobsen ’76 P ’05
Malina Welman malinawelman@gmail.com
2012
Victoria Criscione victoriaacriscione@gmail.com
2014
Mary (Libera) McAnally: I was married in December 2023 with classmates
CLASS NOTES DETAILS
Carlie (McCumber) Hamilton, Katie Hammond, and Lara Brachman-Goldstein in attendance.
Mia (Wright) Real: I got married in January in St. Petersburg, FL. Zoe Wright ’17 was my maid of honor and Veronica Child and Laura Whelan ’16 were on hand to help celebrate.
• Notes will be collected via Google Form. You will receive a link to this form from your Class Secretary or, if your class doesn’t have a secretary, directly from the school.
• Digital photos should be a high-resolution JPEG image (1M or larger) with a caption. We request that photos include alumnae (with the exception of newborn photos).
• Editorial staff will edit, format, and select all content based on space constraints and will work to incorporate as many notes and photos as possible.
MOMENTS
1. Mary (Brennan) Gerster ’63 at the opening of an exhibition of her artwork with granddaughter Bella (18) and daughter Eileen
2. Mary (Brennan) Gerster ’63 and Alec in Amsterdam
3. Mary (Brennan) Gerster ’63 with son Brennan, daughter-in-law Molly, and husband Alec in Berlin
4. “South Shore Nantucket,” oil painting by Mary (Brennan) Gerster ’63, sold during her exhibit
5. Bella (18), Grace (24), and Kate (22), granddaughters of Mary (Brennan) Gerster ’63
6. Brad (14), Alec (15), Laley (17), grandchildren of Mary (Brennan) Gerster ’63
7. Nancy “Shanny” Schieffelin ’63 and family
8. KJ Kusterer, grandson of Jane (Kolarsey) Kusterer ’65
9. Linda (Burns) Jones ’66 with expanded family at her daughter’s wedding
10. Mimi (Bates) Pantuhova ’68 and family vacationing in Jamaica
11. 1971 classmates Barbara (Weiger) Lepke-Sims and Blake (Rimbault) Zoephel visiting a museum at Yale University
12. Barbara (Weiger) Lepke-Sims ’71 at her birthday celebration and family reunion in Destin, FL
13. Gail (Campbell) McBride ’71 with her sister Leigh (Campbell) Saulsbury ’69
14. Jeanne (Pettit) Ferris ’71 and daughter Veronica
15. Jeanne (Pettit) Ferris ’71 in New York City with daughter Veronica and son-in-law Matt
16. Jared Mancini, son of Linda (Gordon) Mancini ’71, and his family
17. Pam (Baker) Harding ’71 and husband Dan with daughter Tory, Tory’s husband Teddy, and Finley
18. Lisa Krieger ’73 in Nepal
19. Beatrice Baenninger, Class of 1982 exchange student from Switzerland, with her husband, Hubi
20. Nancy (Gorman) Dougherty ’82 P ’12 and husband Jay with Ann Bolger ’82 at classmate Carolyn Montgomery’s girlSINGER, a tribute to Rosemary Clooney, at the Birdland Theater
21. Carolyn Montgomery ’82 and son Eli after a performance of her show girlSINGER
22. Nancy (Gorman) Dougherty ’82 P ’12,
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Hildy Jackson ’82, Ramelle Massey ’82, and Jennifer Durham ’82 celebrating Ramelle’s 60th birthday in Jersey City
23. Lauren (Kares) Harrison ’86 with horses Hudson and Ozzy
24. Dana (Green) Carter Cataldi ’87 and her husband, Owen Gross, in Austin for New Year’s
25. George Nisbet and Jennifer Dorsey ’87 in Turks and Caicos
26. Karen (Engler) Bartlett, Liz Hines, Amy Allen, and Katina Houvouras from the Class of 1991 in Middlebury, VT.
27. The shop owned by Jane Herships ’93, Other People’s Clothes, in Ridgewood, Queens
28. Francesca Quagliata and Victoria (Miller) Henderson ’93
29. 2004 classmates Jessie Conway, Jacqueline (Altieri) Daniels, Meghan (Brophy) Persutti, and Hilary Sayia at Jacqueline’s wedding
30. Peter Ryan Daniels, son of Jacqueline (Altieri) Daniels ’04
31. KPS 2004 reunion: (back, l–r) Hilary Sayia, Tracy Chung, Jessie Conway, Megan Grobert, Suzanne (Bradley) Marineau, Susan Shea, Nimaako Brown, and Jessica Scott; (middle, l–r) Liz (Graham) Woolcock, Carey Roach, Meghan (Brophy) Persutti, Jacqueline (Altieri) Daniels, Leilani Smith, Kate (Hammond) DeOssie, and Katie Jones; (front, l–r) Cynthia (Wright) Haeler, Laura Kleinbaum, and Nicole (Lamparello) Terzis
32. Kent Place alumnae at the Glaucoma Foundation Gala: Sima Parekh ’17, Jessica Scott, MD ’04, and Bela Parekh, MD ’14
33. Nadja Yacker ’07 and husband Connor Graham with their son, Caleb David Graham
34. Hudson Worthington Williams, newborn son of Taylor (Worthington) Williams ’07
35. Sophia (Gouraige) McGill ’09 at her wedding with her four best friends from Kent Place
36. Jenny (Ellis) Lee ’09 and baby Logan
37. Mary (Libera) McAnally ’14 at her wedding, with classmates Carlie (McCumber) Hamilton, Katie Hammond, and Lara Brachman-Goldstein
38. Mia (Wright) Real ’14 and Henry Cooper Real on their wedding day
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AMY (WANGGAARD) HAUSMANN ’86
As we go to print, Amy was appointed to serve as the Executive Director of the Maine Arts Commission, bringing three decades of experience to her new role shaping art and cultural policy for the state of Maine. Amy is a curator, art director, producer and arts administrator dedicated to developing art and cultural programs in public places. As director of Olana, a National Historic landmark and New York State historic site in the upper Hudson River valley, Amy was responsible for the historic, natural and cultural resources of one of the most important historic artist homes in the nation. She was deputy director and senior curator at the New York Transit Museum and for more than a decade, was deputy director of Metropolitan Transportation Authority Arts & Design, commissioning innovative, award-winning contemporary visual and performing arts for the New York City subway and rail system.
What have been the most fulfilling aspects of your career? So far, introducing art and artists to broad and diverse audiences through my work as a public servant in New York State. I commissioned artwork for the most democratic place on earth: the New York City subway system. I worked with hundreds of artists — some I learned about in my Kent Place art history classes — and oversaw more than 150 permanent public art commissions, among them the new Second Avenue Subway. Our curatorial team developed monumental public art made of mosaic, glass, and metal. We presented thousands of concerts and presented poetry, graphics, illustration, digital art, and performance in some of New York’s busiest public spaces. Our work creating art for public places shaped a remarkable underground art museum that’s visited by 8.5 million riders every single day.
I continued my public service high on a hill above the Mahicannituck, the sacred body of water now called the Hudson River, for New York State Parks as director of Olana, a unique historic house museum and public park. Olana is a 250-acre designed landscape and ornate house created by the 19th-century artist Frederic Church that now hosts visitors from all over the world. The park is free and open to all, every day of the year, which was the most important thing to me. Public places like this are the perfect venue for art and cultural events. During my time at Olana, I invited artists such as Jean Shin and Portia Munson to present site-specific installations, organized plein-air painting festivals for hundreds of artists who were inspired by the gorgeous landscape, and partnered with the Albany Symphony to provide a free sunset concert overlooking the mountains and river. Parks like Olana offer opportunities to learn about rich cultural history as well as sanctuary, refuge, and relief for visitors who cherish the lush, natural beauty of these public spaces.
How did you choose your career? I began studying art history as a freshman at Kent Place and loved it, then majored in studio art and art history at Knox College. Ultimately, though, I realized what I wanted to do was make artists’ dreams come true as a curator and producer, and that’s what I’ve dedicated my career to doing. I’ve been lucky to spend my entire professional life in the arts and I owe it all to the education and experience my parents and teachers provided for me at Kent Place.
What advice would you give KPS students? Travel as much as you can! I went to incredible places, met interesting people, and saw great art and architecture that inspired my career. Those trips opened my eyes to a wider, more diverse, and beautiful world.
Gifts to the Kent Place Fund demonstrate a commitment to a girls’ education and our mission to empower girls to be confident, intellectual, and ethical leaders who advance the world. When our community supports the Kent Place Fund, we are able to provide a holistic education that prepares our brave and brilliant students for the future!
Make your gift by visiting kentplace.org/give-today, scanning the QR code, or contacting Anna Fisher, Director of Annual Giving, at (908) 273-0900, ext. 227, or fishera@kentplace.org.
Please forward any address changes to the Kent Place School Advancement Office updateinfo@kentplace.org
