LFA Review - Summer 2026

Review The Magazine of Lake Forest Academy and Ferry Hall

Summer 2026

The Review | Summer 2026

1

Review

The Magazine of Lake Forest Academy and Ferry Hall Head of School Tom Johnson P’30 Main Editors Greg Greenwell P’25, ’29 Emmy Schwerdt Alex Stevenson Magazine Layout & Design Greg Greenwell P’25, ’29 Emmy Schwerdt Alex Stevenson Photography David Atas Ruth Keyso George Pfoertner Emmy Schwerdt Alex Stevenson

4

GRADUATION 2026

The Class of 2026 celebrated graduation with a pictureperfect Saturday afternoon in the Formal Gardens that capped a week of end of year events that included academic and athletic awards, the year-end talent show, and Move-Up Day.

Contributors Beth Bentley Courtney Ciampi Greg Greenwell P’25, ’29 Tom Johnson P’30 Ruth Keyso Dianys Padró Pagán Kristine Petroshius P’27, ’30 Christine Ryder P’15, ’17 Emmy Schwerdt Elizabeth Sullivan Printing John S. Swift Co., Inc. Admission Office 847-615-3267 admission@lfanet.org Alumni Engagement Office 847-615-3268 advancement@lfanet.org Marketing & Communications Office 847-615-3284 comms@lfanet.org

12

GALA: THE HEART OF CAMPUS

The LFA community came together for an inspiring evening in support of a significant investment for Lakeview Village, a new faculty housing initiative that will add seven units across three residential buildings on LFA’s campus.

Parent Relations Office 847-615-3238 advancement@lfanet.org The Review is published two times a year by the Office of Marketing & Communications at: Lake Forest Academy 1500 W. Kennedy Road Lake Forest, IL 60045 Telephone: 847-615-3210 POSTMASTER: please send change of address notices to Alumni Office, Lake Forest Academy, 1500 W. Kennedy Road, Lake Forest, Illinois 60045-1047.

All the words and photos contained herein were written or taken by the editor, unless otherwise noted. Opinions expressed in the Review are those of the authors. No material may be legally reproduced without the written consent of the editor and Lake Forest Academy. ©2025, Lake Forest Academy, Lake Forest, Illinois. All rights reserved. Lake Forest Academy supports and adheres to a long-standing policy of admitting students of any race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.

2

Lake Forest Academy | www.lfanet.org

17

CAXY, START YOUR ENGINE!

Lake Forest Academy student spends his weekends going 150 miles per hour as a racing driver in the US Juniors Series with his car featuring LFA’s logo.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

21

103 AND COUNTING

Meet LFA’s eldest alumnus who arrived at the Academy’s original campus in East Lake Forest for the start of his sophomore year of high school in the fall of 1937. He returned to Lake Forest Academy as the commencement speaker at the graduation ceremony in 1976 and his speech still resonates today.

22

FOR MORE PHOTOS from Graduation, Gala, Reunion, performances, athletics and other events at Lake Forest Academy, please visit LFA’s galleries on SmugMug or scan the QR code.

lakeforestacademy.smugmug.com

REUNION 2026

In June, Lake Forest Academy welcomed alumni, families, and friends back to campus for Reunion 2026, marking the beginning of a new summer tradition for the LFA and Ferry Hall community.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

26

SUMMER CELEBRATION TOUR

The Summer Celebration Tour featured stops in six different destinations building and strengthening personal connections that allow the Academy to continue to expand its global reach.

Head of School Letter........................................ 3 Deans Council.................................................. 11 Around Campus............................................... 14 Arts Review....................................................... 16 Athletics Review............................................... 18 Faculty Notes...................................................28 Class Notes......................................................29 In Memoriam....................................................31 Planned Giving.................................................32 The Review | Summer 2026

1

MISSION STATEMENT Lake Forest Academy strives to embody in its practices and to cultivate in its students excellence of character, scholarship, citizenship, and responsibility.

2025-26 Board of Trustees Jessica P. Douglas ’96 Chair Bruce W. Anderson ’70, P’97, LT’13 Vice Chair

CHARACTER encompasses respect for others and their beliefs, dedication to honesty in every sphere of life, realization of moral clarity and conviction, and pursuit of virtue and value in life.

SCHOLARSHIP encompasses acquisition of knowledge, development of critical thinking, enthusiasm for discovery and learning, and exercise of a powerful imagination.

Eric Brown ’98 Treasurer

CITIZENSHIP encompasses appreciation of diversity and multiculturalism, involvement in the LFA community, participation in service to others, and commitment to global awareness and understanding.

Karin Fink P’22, ’23 Secretary

RESPONSIBILITY encompasses development of self-reliance, ability to seek guidance, dedication to cooperation and teamwork, and action based upon informed decisions.

Elizabeth Alicea ’98 Ariana Bhatia ’12 Katie Frekko P’21, ’24, ’27 Gloria W. Harper P’93 Tom Hodgkins ’85 Suzanne Isenberg ’83 Duane C. Jackson ’01 Ned Jessen P’01, ’05, LT’08 Jeffrey Johnson P’20 Scott W. Kaeser ’96 Allan M. Kaplan ’72, P’03, LT’04 Junghwa “Maria” Kim ’03 John Marlatt ’65 Margeaux McReynolds ’02 Scott Meloun ’77 Kathy Pollock ’70 Dr. Bancroft O’Quinn, Jr. ’72 Leslie Rosen P’25, ’25, ’27, ’27 Emily Sammon ’91 Frederick Waddell ’01 Xiong Yin P’23

Did You Know? At graduation each year, the 69 flags from around the world arranged behind the graduation podium represent the native countries of Lake Forest Academy graduates from the Class of 1980 through the Class of 2026.

2

Lake Forest Academy | www.lfanet.org

HEAD OF SCHOOL LETTER

Dear LFA Community, I hope that this summer finds you exploring your passions in the world. For me, summer is a great time to slow down and reflect on both the year that has been and the year that will be. The day-to-day life of a school is full of so many beautiful moments that shape the fabric of our institution. And this past year was an incredible one in which we started the school year with 452 students (tied for an all-time high), expressed gratitude for all of the opportunities that have been afforded to us, and tried to make a difference in the lives of our students who are going to make the world a more pluralistic and inclusive place.

In our second full year in the LFA Athletic Center, our students, faculty, and staff utilized the space every day for interscholastic athletics, personal recreation, bonding, and community engagement.

We crowned league champions in a number of sports, broke school records, and provided daily moments of connection through cocurricular participation. Our theater program went bold with an elaborate set for the Fall Play “Clue”, and a throwback with the Winter Musical “Grease”. And our students continued to lead through their service to the LFA, local, regional, and international communities.

It was a year of incredible engagement from our parent and alumni base, as we held a very successful Giving Day in November, aimed at increasing both participation and dollars raised for the Academy Fund, an essential arm of our operating budget. We will try to expand that success this year on our second annual Giving Day on Tuesday, Nov. 17. We also rallied as a community around the Lakeview Village new faculty housing project on campus through Gala 2026, where we raised over $1.5 million. We will break ground on the project this summer and be ready to move into these units by next summer.

For this coming year we will be making an adjustment to our cell phone policy to limit usage almost entirely during the academic day.

We want this time to be focused on learning, engaging with each other, and being present, both physically and mentally. The Academy is also in the midst of finalizing its most recent Strategic Plan, which will define the next 5-10 years at LFA and will allow us to capitalize on some of the things that make LFA so special, and to keep an eye on becoming even better in the future. More details to come on this plan as they are finalized this year.

In this issue we highlight the events from the end of the school year including Move-Up Day and Graduation. We also have a spotlight from Reunions in June, and would like to remind all alumni that classes ending in “2” and “7” have their milestone Reunions from June 4-5, 2027. Please mark your calendars and come back to LFA to celebrate with the school and your classmates. We also highlight the Year in Review, including my tour around the United States and internationally to meet with LFA families and alumni, including our oldest living alumnus in Southern Pines, N.C.! Lastly, there is an update on Gala 2026, which was a huge success thanks to the tremendous support from our larger school community.

Lastly, as we get ready to head into a new year, the 170th in the history of the school, we will be placing special emphasis on joy. From the moment I first stepped onto campus, I sensed the joy that emanates from our classrooms, hallways, playing fields and dormitories. This is a happy place where students and faculty alike can show up as their authentic selves and celebrate their uniqueness and togetherness all at once. I, for one, am grateful to live and work in a place that is so joyful.

Sincerely,

J. Thomas Johnson P’30 Head of School The Review | Summer 2026

3

Graduation 2026 On a picture-perfect afternoon in the Formal Gardens, surrounded by proud families, friends, faculty, and staff, Lake Forest Academy celebrated one of its most cherished traditions as the Class of 2026 crossed the commencement stage and officially became the newest members of the LFA alumni community.

For the 120 graduates, commencement marked the culmination of four years of academic achievement, personal growth, leadership, and lifelong friendships.

It was the final chapter of a journey that challenged students to think critically, embrace new opportunities, and prepare for lives of purpose beyond campus.

From late-night study sessions and spirited athletic competitions to artistic performances, service projects, and countless everyday moments shared with classmates, the Class of 2026 leaves behind a legacy uniquely its own.

The celebration extended far beyond Graduation Day itself. Throughout the final weeks of school, seniors participated in a series of beloved traditions designed to honor their accomplishments and celebrate their transition into the next stage of life. College Shirt Day showcased the exciting destinations awaiting graduates this fall as students proudly wore apparel representing their future colleges and universities. During Move-Up Day, seniors symbolically passed the torch to the rising senior class, while the Senior Celebration provided one final opportunity for classmates to reflect on four unforgettable years together before graduation.

4

Lake Forest Academy | www.lfanet.org

GRADUATION 2026 As guests gathered in the Formal Gardens, the familiar sound of traditional bagpipes signaled the beginning of the ceremony. Faculty and staff led the formal processional from the doors of Reid Hall, followed by the graduating class.

Head of School Tom Johnson P’30 welcomed graduates and guests, reflecting on the significance of the day and the remarkable accomplishments of the Class of 2026. He encouraged graduates to carry forward the values that define the LFA experience.

This year’s commencement address featured Mathematics Teacher Dieter Villegas ’18, whose journey from LFA student to faculty member offered graduates a meaningful perspective on the lifelong connections formed within the Academy community. Drawing on his own experiences, he challenged the graduating class to approach the future with confidence, resilience, and a willingness to continue learning long after leaving LFA. Representing his classmates, senior class president De’Avon Garcilazo ’26 reflected on the shared experiences that shaped the Class of 2026. His remarks celebrated the friendships forged across dormitories, classrooms, athletic fields, studios, and performance spaces while acknowledging the many ways the class had grown together through both triumphs and challenges.

Looking toward the future, he encouraged his fellow graduates to embrace the opportunities ahead while carrying the spirit of the Caxy community wherever they go.

Class advisors Diane Cooper, History & Social Science Teacher, and Meredith Norman, Learning Resources Specialist, announced each graduate as they crossed the stage to receive their diploma from Board of Trustees Chair Jessica Douglas ’96.

The Class of 2026 now embarks on an impressive array of next steps. Graduates will attend 65 different colleges and universities across 27 states, Washington, D.C., and three countries, reflecting both the breadth of their ambitions and the strength of their preparation at Lake Forest Academy. Members of the class will continue their academic journeys at institutions throughout the United States as well as in Canada, China, and Scotland.

In addition to those pursuing higher education immediately, eight members of the graduating class will continue their athletic development by playing junior hockey before beginning their collegiate careers, demonstrating the many pathways graduates take as they pursue their personal and professional goals.

While the Class of 2026 leaves behind the halls, classrooms, and traditions of Lake Forest Academy, they carry with them the friendships, experiences, and values that have shaped their time as Caxys.

Congratulations, Class of 2026. Your next chapter begins now.

The Review | Summer 2026

5

GRADUATION 2026

Class of 2026 Matriculation Amherst College Amherst, Mass.

Fordham University Bronx, N.Y.

Purdue University (2) West Lafayette, Ind.

University of Ottawa Ottawa, Ont.

Babson College (4) Wellesley, Mass.

George Washington University (2) Washington, D.C.

Rice University Houston, Texas

University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia, Pa.

Bates College (3) Lewiston, Maine

Illinois Institute of Technology Chicago, Ill.

Rochester Institute of Technology (2) Henrietta, N.Y.

University of Rochester Rochester, N.Y.

Boston College Chestnut Hill, Mass.

Illinois Wesleyan University Bloomington, Ill.

Rollins College Winter Park, Fla.

University of Southern California (3) Los Angeles, Calif.

Boston University (2) Boston, Mass.

Johns Hopkins University Baltimore, Md.

Sarah Lawrence College Bronxville, N.Y.

University of St. Andrews St. Andrews, Scotland

Brandeis University Waltham, Mass.

Kettering University Flint, Mich.

St. Mary’s College Notre Dame, Ind.

University of Tampa (3) Tampa, Fla.

Carleton College Northfield, Minn.

Knox College Galesburg, Ill.

Suffolk University Boston, Mass.

University of Toledo Toledo, Ohio

Carnegie Mellon University (2) Pittsburgh, Pa.

Lafayette College Easton, Pa.

Tufts University (2) Medford, Mass.

University of Virginia Charlottesville, Va.

Case Western Reserve University Cleveland, Ohio

Lake Forest College (2) Lake Forest, Ill.

Tulane University New Orleans, La.

University of Wisconsin Madison, Wis.

Colby College Waterville, Maine

Lehigh University Bethlehem, Pa.

University of California, Berkeley (3) Berkeley, Calif.

Vanderbilt University (2) Nashville, Tenn.

College of St. Benedict St. Joseph, Minn.

Lewis University Romeoville, Ill.

University of Chicago Chicago, Ill.

Wake Forest University Winston-Salem, N.C.

Columbia University New York, N.Y.

Miami University Oxford, Ohio

University of Denver Denver, Colo.

Washington University in St. Louis (4) St. Louis, Mo.

Columbia University/City University of Hong Kong New York, N.Y./Hong Kong, China

Middlebury College (2) Middlebury, Vt.

University of Illinois UrbanaChampaign (4) Urbana-Champaign, Ill.

Wesleyan University Middletown, Conn.

Cornell University (3) Ithaca, N.Y. Dartmouth College Hanover, N.H. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Daytona Beach, Fla. Emory University (3) Atlanta, Ga.

6

Northeastern University (5) Boston, Mass.

Northwestern University (5) Evanston, Ill. Orange Coast College Costa Mesa, Calif.

Princeton University Princeton, N.J.

Lake Forest Academy | www.lfanet.org

University of Maryland College Park, Md. University of Massachusetts Amherst Amherst, Mass.

University of Miami (4) Coral Gables, Fla. University of Michigan (3) Ann Arbor, Mich.

Wayne State College Wayne, Neb. In addition to students matriculating to college and universities, Class of 2026 graduates are also taking a gap year, a postgrad year, or playing junior hockey.

All information current as of May 14, 2026 and number of students attending each institution in parentheses.

END OF YEAR CELEBRATIONS

2025-26 Academic Departmental Honors The final All-School Meeting of the 2025-26 academic year featured Lake Forest Academy’s departmental awards ceremony at The Cressey Center for the Arts. The event recognized outstanding achievements in English, Library, Fine and Performing Arts, Global, History and Social Science, Mathematics and Computer Science, Modern and Classical Languages, and Science.

English

Niswender Prize: Irina Andrijasevic ’27 The Niswender Prize is given to the student who has demonstrated the most improvement in expository writing during their junior year.

Golden Pen Award: Valor Cutaia ’26 and Madeleine Stastny ’26 The Golden Pen Award is given to a student who displays a genuine love for the written word and an appreciation of its beauty and power.

Spectator Award: Kayla Moore ’26 The Spectator Award is given to the student who, in his or her work on The Spectator, has aspired to the highest standards of journalism.

Senior English Award: Sahasrad Sathish ’26 The Senior English Award is given to the senior who has shown excellence in the study of English.

Library

Library Media Award: Harmony Gray ’26 The Library Media Award recognizes a senior who has demonstrated exceptional dedication in utilizing tools and resources in the Library and Media Commons, and has shown exemplary leadership skills in guiding and inspiring their peers in this pursuit.

Fine and Performing Arts

The McCormick Fine Arts Awards are given in honor of Nettie L. McCormick, who attended Ferry Hall from 1872-1874. The following awards are included: McCormick Fine Arts Award for Outstanding Achievement in Drama: Lydia Freeman ’26 and Samuel Hendricks ’26 The McCormick Fine Arts Prize for Outstanding Achievement in Drama is awarded to a student who has demonstrated exceptional talent in theater and dramatic arts.

McCormick Fine Arts Prize for Outstanding Achievement in Music: Jahstone Martin ’26 and Jackson Pick ’26 The McCormick Fine Arts Prize for Outstanding Achievement in Music is awarded to a student who has exhibited outstanding skill, innovation, and impact in the field of music.

McCormick Fine Arts Prize for Outstanding Achievement in the Visual Arts: Robin Paisley ’27 The McCormick Fine Arts Prize for Outstanding Achievement in the Visual Arts is awarded to a student who has demonstrated remarkable excellence and originality in the realm of visual arts.

Everett E. Grace Music Prize: Shalin Chhabria ’26 The Everett E. Grace Music Prize has been established to honor Mr. Grace’s lifetime of sharing music with young people and is awarded to the senior whose involvement in the Academy’s music program has been deemed by the department to have been most inspirational in encouraging the participation of others in music study and performance.

Pridmore Award: Ivana Cortes Villagomez ’26 The Pridmore Award recognizes a senior whose enthusiasm and creativity in the fine arts have deeply influenced his or her education and had a unique impact on the Lake Forest Academy community.

Taylor Award: Evie Miller ’26 The Taylor Award recognizes a senior who has achieved excellence in studio arts, who has used his or her gift to express beauty and create joy, and who has been a dedicated member of the LFA community.

Theater Tech Award: Jaxon Kelly ’26 The Theater Tech Award is given to an outstanding senior or seniors who have demonstrated excellence and dedication to the construction, mounting, and design of a production.

Fine and Performing Arts Department Award: Davin Lee ’26 and Jeff Zavelsky ’26 The Fine and Performing Arts Department Award is awarded to the student or students who have displayed excellence in two or more of the fine arts and who have made a significant contribution not only to the Fine Arts program at LFA, but also to the artistic, cultural, and spiritual life of the school and community.

Global

Global Department Award: Roman McLaurine ’26 The Global Department Award is given to a senior Global Capstone student who has demonstrated a passion for global issues, excelled in the study of globalization, and developed strong skills in the four global competencies of investigating the world, recognizing multiple perspectives, communicating effectively with diverse audiences, and acting to address global challenges through community engagement.

History and Social Science

World History Prize: Riya Kapoor ’28 The World History Prize is presented to the student who has demonstrated perception and proficiency in the study of World History.

Overdorf History Prize: Nishant Narayanan ’27 The Overdorf History Prize is presented to the student who has demonstrated perception and proficiency in the study of American History.

Raymond Delaplaine Burnet Prize in Economics: Sophia DeLise ’26 The Raymond Delaplaine Burnet Prize in Economics was established by Muriel A. Burnet ’40 to honor and memorialize her father. This prize for excellence in economics is awarded to a graduating senior who has an excellent overall academic record, participates in Academy life, and excels in economics.

Nelson Award: Logan Pick ’26 The Nelson Award is awarded to the senior who is judged to have exhibited general excellence in the study of history.

Mathematics and Computer Science

Mathematics Department Award: Juhyung Joh ’27 The Mathematics Department Award is given to the underclassman whose hard work and rare insights into mathematics have enabled him or her to excel.

Computer Science Award: Cyrena Yang ’26 The Computer Science Award is awarded to a student who has demonstrated excellence in the study of computer science due to their dedication and commitment to the field.

Ainsworth Award: Clare Gartz ’26 and Sahasrad Sathish ’26 The Ainsworth Award is awarded to a senior who has excelled in the study of mathematics and who has rejoiced in doing so; in recognition of the years of loving service given by Sidney E. Ainsworth, teacher of mathematics, to two generations of LFA students.

Modern and Classical Languages

Lynn B. Kulieke Award: Genesis Abarca ’26 The Lynn B. Kulieke Award is awarded to a senior or seniors who have demonstrated excellence in the study of Spanish.

E. J. Barry Award: Samuel Hendricks ’26 The E. J. Barry Award is presented to a senior or seniors who are deemed to have exhibited general excellence in the study of a language other than their own.

Stephen C. Ryder Award: Sadie Bruns ’27 The Stephen C. Ryder Award is given in honor of our esteemed longtime French teacher who dedicated 37 years to the students at LFA. The Ryder Award is awarded to a student who has demonstrated love, passion, enthusiasm, commitment, and dedication to the study of French.

Chinese Award: Chloe Kim ’26 The Chinese Award is presented to a senior who has demonstrated enthusiasm, commitment and dedication to the study of Chinese.

Latin Award: Drew Cobin ’26 The Latin Award is presented to a senior who has demonstrated excellence, commitment and dedication to the study of Latin.

Science

Louch Award: Angel Wu ’26, Queenie Wu ’26, and Alexandra Zhu ’26 The Louch Award is given in honor of Sandra J. Louch, a former biology teacher and department head, who during her 23 years at Ferry Hall and LFA, inspired many generations of students with her enthusiasm for the many facets of science.

The Review | Summer 2026

7

END OF YEAR CELEBRATIONS

Cum Laude and Move-Up Day Awards Cum Laude

The Cum Laude Society is the secondary school equivalent of Phi Beta Kappa, and membership in the Lake Forest Academy chapter is one of the highest academic honors the Academy can bestow on its students. The Cum Laude induction ceremony took place at a luncheon on May 28 in Reid Hall that recognized the inductees and featured guest speaker Dr. Thomas Clarke ’14. Based on their exceptional scholarship during their tenure at LFA, the Cum Laude Committee was honored to induct the following seniors into the Lake Forest Academy chapter: Daniel Choi Drew Cobin Valor Cutaia Clare Gartz Selina Ge Charley Gopin Samuel Hendricks Jennifer Ji Matthew Jun

8

Max Larson Quinn Macejko Jahstone Martin Selah Omura Jackson Pick Logan Pick Peyton Pollak Thomas Quan Sahasrad Sathish

Lorenzo Serafini Janelle Su Levi Tallós Veronika Vovk Queenie Wu Angel Wu Caden Ye Selina Ye Alexandra Zhu

A small percentage of students are considered each year for membership during their junior year as well and those students are as follows: Sadie Bruns Leo Lei Jack Menton Nishant Narayanan

Daniel Schanzenbach Grace Wang Adele Wu Sienna Yang

Faculty Awards

Move-Up Day Awards

Alumni Award for Teaching Excellence The recipients of the 2026 Alumni Award for Teaching Excellence are Science teachers Ruth Smith P’15, ’18 and Kevin Ingram.

The traditional Move-Up Day Ceremony adopted from Ferry Hall recognized achievements at all grade levels at Lake Forest Academy the day before graduation. The celebration in the Formal Gardens opened with the class processional before the awards ceremony and move-up process that saw the Class of 2026 shift to alumni as each corresponding class moved over to its new seating section for 2026-27 and welcomed a group of students in LFA’s Class of 2030.

Laima Salcius P’98 Faculty Award The recipient of the 2026 Laima Salcius P’98 Faculty Award is Dean of Admission Carolyn Gorowski.

American Legion Award: Roman McLaurine ’26 Faculty Award: Sahasrad Sathish ’26 Alexander Award: Roman McLaurine ’26 Mary Freeland Award: Clare Gartz ’26 Benjamin D. Waldie, Sr. Award: Samuel Hendricks ’26 Butler Award: Jack Danaher ’26 Wetzel Award: Christina Quiroz ’26 Hixon Award: Evie Miller ’26 Horace S. Vaile Award: Jeff Zavelsky ’26

Lake Forest Academy | www.lfanet.org

Jewell J. Jackson, Jr. Award: Owen Adrianopoli ’27 McLaughlin Prize: Liza Lewis ’28 Jonathan Fremd Award: Shirley Zhang ’29 Abigail Shanley-Roberts Spirit Award: Alec Oldham ’27 Service Above Self Award: Jake Gray ’26 The Aurelian Book Prize: Jackson Pick ’26 Virginia Phillips Speidel Award: Samuel Hendricks ’26 House Cup Winner: Sargent

END OF YEAR CELEBRATIONS

Athletics Honors The Caxys gathered in the LFA Athletic Center on May 28 for the annual athletics awards ceremony as part of the end of year celebrations. The LFA athletics department honored varsity team MVPs as well as athlete of the year awards for each class, and specialty awards.

2025-26 Athletics Honors

Fall Varsity MVPs Boys Cross Country: Valor Cutaia ’26 Girls Cross Country: Abbey Welsh ’28 Field Hockey: Christina Quiroz ’26 Boys Golf: Fitz Knight ’27 Girls Golf: Aurora Du ’28 Boys Soccer: Kristian Kopacz ’26 Girls Swimming: Defne Kocak ’26 Girls Tennis: Beatrice Franklin ’27 Girls Volleyball: Emmie Greer ’26 Winter Varsity MVPs Boys Basketball: Levi Tallós ’26 Girls Basketball: Lindsay Farbman ’26 Co-ed Cheer/Dance: Coco Zheng ’28 Boys Ice Hockey: Elliott Kim ’28 Girls Ice Hockey: Madeleine Stastny ’26 Boys Prep Ice Hockey: Romain Lellouche ’26 Boys Squash: Hamza Jafri ’26 Girls Squash: Dora Huang ’27 Boys Swimming: Zach Youn ’26 Spring Varsity MVPs Girls Badminton: Anna Zhu ’27 Baseball: Owen Adrianopoli ’27 Boys Lacrosse: Mathieu Frechette ’26 Girls Lacrosse: Riley Mormon ’26 Girls Soccer: Serena Gilani ’26 Softball: Helena Secrest ’26 Boys Tennis: Charles Demeo ’26 Boys Track & Field: Michael An ’26 Girls Track & Field: Aubrey Ewing ’27 Boys and Girls Senior Track & Field Award: Roman McLaurine ’26 and Evie Miller ’26 Boys Volleyball: Carlos Brito ’26

Athletes of the Year Freshman Boy: Liam Anderson ’29 Freshman Girl: Mia Pellegrini ’29 Sophomore Boy: Albert Hou ’28 Sophomore Girl: Akshara Ginjupalli ’28 Junior Boy: Astin Choi ’27 Junior Girl: Dora Huang ’27 Senior Boy: Brenden Johnson ’26 Senior Girl: Lindsay Farbman ’26 Students Earning Nine or More Varsity Letters Daniel Choi ’26 Andreas Churchill ’26 Colton Dunford ’26 Austin Ewing ’26 Jake Gray ’26 Max Larson ’26 Jahstone Martin ’26 Esther Park ’26 Madeleine Stastny ’26 Queenie Wu ’26

Sandra Bolz Memorial Fan Award: Corrie Caminiti Pollak P’26, ’26 William “Bill” Dolbee Award: David Atas Stuart Hockey Award (Male): Gavin Bailey ’26 Stuart Hockey Award (Female): Serena Gilani ’26 David O. MacKenzie ’50 Award (Male): Levi Tallós ’26 David O. MacKenzie ’50 Award (Female): Christina Quiroz ’26

Students Earning 12 Varsity Letters Lindsay Farbman ’26 Brenden Johnson ’26

The Review | Summer 2026

9

End of Year Talent Show The annual end of year talent show is a favorite tradition of graduation week. LFA students, faculty, and staff take the stage in The Cressey Center for the Arts with a variety of performances. The duo of Davin Lee ’26 and Jahstone Martin ’26 (pictured right) performing “An American in Paris” was the winner of the talent show and performed the following day during Move-Up Day.

10

Lake Forest Academy | www.lfanet.org

DEANS COUNCIL

Lake Forest Academy’s leadership group – Deans Council – added four new members under Head of School Tom Johnson P’30 during the 2025-26 academic year. After serving on an interim basis during the school year, Jessica Kapadia was named permanent Academic Dean and Kyle Koncz is now the permanent Athletic Director. Dean of Advancement Elizabeth Sullivan joined LFA in February and Associate Head of School Stella Beale moved to Lake Forest Academy in July.

Stella Beale joined Lake Forest Academy in July 2026 as Associate Head of School. In addition to serving as Associate Head of School, she also teaches in the English department.

Stella joins LFA from Marin Academy in San Rafael, Calif. where she was Dean of Faculty. Prior to her arrival at Marin, Stella worked at Windward in Los Angeles, first as Associate Director of Upper School and later as the Director of Studies.

She earned her Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, her Master of Arts in Education from Wake Forest University, her Master of Education in Private School Leadership at Teachers College/Columbia University, and her Doctor of Education from the University of Pennsylvania.

She has worked in schools – both public and private – for over 25 years and is committed to and passionate about pedagogy, faculty development and mentorship, and the creation of more equitable systems in schools. Stella is also a proud mother and an avid runner and hiker. When she’s not in school, attending or leading a professional development workshop, or reading educational theory, she can most often be found pounding the pavement or hitting the trails. She lives on campus in Weinbrenner House.

Jessica Kapadia has been a member of the Lake Forest Academy faculty since 2015 in the History and Social Science department. She served as History Department Chair from fall 2019 through spring 2025 before stepping into the interim Academic Dean role for the 2025-26 academic year. Following that year as interim, she was named the permanent Academic Dean in June 2026.

A graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Jessica earned her bachelor’s degree in secondary education and history. She went on to complete a master’s degree in education and obtained her English as a Second Language certification at National Louis University. Jessica enjoys teaching AP World History and working with students as a faculty advisor for Girl Up and the Jewish Student Union. She lives off campus with her husband, Elan, and their daughter, Nora.

Kyle Koncz returned to Lake Forest Academy in 2017, initially working in the Admissions Office before he transitioned into the Athletic Department in 2023. He served as the Interim Athletic Director during the 2025-26 school year before being named permanent Athletic Director in June 2026. In addition to working in admission and athletics, he also led the boy’s basketball program as head coach since 2017. In May 2023, Kyle completed a master’s degree in athletic administration from Ohio University and earned Registered Athletic Administrator Certification through the NIAAA.

He attended Princeton University for his undergraduate education, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology, was a member of the basketball program, co-captain of the team his senior year, and winner of the program’s B.F. Dunn Award after his junior and senior seasons, which is given to the player who contributes most to the sport through play, sportsmanship, and influence.

After graduating, he worked at LFA from July 2008 to June 2011 as a psychology and seminar instructor, assistant basketball and cross country coach, co-director of student activities, and dorm parent. He left LFA to pursue his interest in coaching college basketball, serving as an assistant coach at Williams College and as Director of Basketball Operations at Fairfield University. After serving as a co-dorm head in Atlass Hall for five years, Kyle has stepped back into the role of dorm parent. Kyle, his wife Ingrid, and daughter Cora live in Atlass Hall.

Elizabeth (Liz) Sullivan joined Lake Forest Academy as Dean of Advancement in February 2026. She oversees Alumni Engagement, Parent Engagement, Annual Giving, Individual Giving, Stewardship, LFA’s Gala, and Advancement Operations.

Liz joins LFA with more than 16 years of advancement experience in higher education. She began her advancement career in Alumni Relations and Development at the University of Chicago before joining Northwestern University, where she held leadership roles and led a team of more than 30 advancement professionals. Earlier in her career, she served as Director of Marketing and Research at the American Bar Association for a decade.

Liz earned a Bachelor of Arts from Northern Illinois University and a Master of Science in Communication from Northwestern University. Throughout her career, she has been passionate about advancing educational missions through philanthropy, engagement, and meaningful relationships with alumni, parents, and donors.

She was drawn to Lake Forest Academy because of its rich history of educational excellence and the opportunity to see the Academy’s mission come to life every day through its students, faculty, and community. Liz also brings a personal appreciation for independent schools through her son’s education in Chicago, where she was an active parent volunteer, including serving on the school’s Gala Committee.

Liz lives in Wilmette with her husband, son, and their dog.

Outside of work, she enjoys playing paddle, learning mahjong, and spending time with family in Georgia. She looks forward to connecting with LFA alumni, parents, and friends and learning about their individual LFA journeys.

The Review | Summer 2026

11

GALA 2026

From left to right: Head of School Tom Johnson and Leigh Morrison P’30 with Gala Co-Chairs: Leland ’07 and Jenny Brewster, David Huang and Diana Qiu P’28, Sara and Brian Lewis P’28, Alicia Cressey ’03 and Tony Ward

The Heart of Campus

Gala 2026 Supports LFA’s Vision to Increase Faculty Housing On April 25, 2026, Lake Forest Academy’s community came together for an inspiring evening in support of a significant investment in the Academy’s future – new faculty housing. Parents, alumni, trustees, faculty, and friends gathered in The Cressey Center for the Arts for cocktails and a record-setting paddle raise before continuing the celebration with dinner in Reid Hall.

The 2026 Gala raised more than $1.5 million to help fund construction of Lakeview Village, a new faculty housing initiative that will add seven units across three residential buildings on LFA’s campus. Two duplexes and one triplex will be built just west of Marshall Field House with groundbreaking slated for the 2026-27 academic year.

The project supports Lake Forest Academy’s priority of increasing on-campus faculty housing and reflects a fundamental belief that teaching and mentorship at LFA extend far beyond the classroom, and is the heart of LFA’s campus. Faculty members serve not only as teachers, but

From left to right: Meghan Norton P’28, Kristen Ramirez P’29, Trustee Leslie Rosen P’25, ’25, ’27, ’27, Sara Lewis P’28, Julie Brandt P’25, ’28

12

Lake Forest Academy | www.lfanet.org

also as coaches, advisors, dorm parents, and mentors.

Their presence on campus strengthens relationships, fosters community, and creates opportunities for learning and growth for LFA’s students.

What made this year’s Gala especially unique was its focus on a long-term, community-shaping investment centered on strengthening the residential experience that defines LFA. With all existing faculty housing occupied and a waiting list of faculty interested in living on campus, the project helps address a critical need for LFA and moves the Academy closer to its long-term goal of increasing the percentage of faculty living on campus.

One of the most inspiring aspects of the evening was seeing the entire LFA community unite around LFA’s faculty. Students played an important role by sharing their experiences and showcasing the vibrant student life of the Academy, helping demonstrate the profound impact faculty have on their lives. The Gala also served as a powerful reminder that investing in faculty is ultimately an investment in students and in the relationships that define the LFA experience.

Lake Forest Academy extends special thanks to Gala Co-Chairs Sara and Brian Lewis P’28, Diana Qiu and David Huang P’28, Alicia Cressey ’03 and Tony Ward, and Jenny and Leland Brewster ’07 for their leadership and dedication. Their efforts, together with the extraordinary generosity of alumni, parents, trustees, and friends, made this transformational project possible.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to Gala 2026 in support of expanding faculty housing at LFA. Lakeview Village will be a lasting investment in the community, ensuring that generations of students benefit from our faculty’s mentorship, relationships, and sense of belonging that make Lake Forest Academy so special.

From left to right: Peggy Fox, Charlie Cooper ’96, P’28, ’30, Leland Brewster ’07, Jenny Brewster, Trustee John Marlatt ’65

From left to right: Elan Kapadia, Academic Dean Jessica Kapadia, Saima Najam P’28, Sheeraz Daudi P’28

The Review | Summer 2026

13

AROUND CAMPUS

WASHINGTON

OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK

Experiential Travel Around the World LFA students had the chance to immerse themselves in all that experiential travel has to offer as they embarked on trips around the world for Spring Break and following the conclusion of the 2025-26 academic year.

This year’s spring break trips, both curricular and co-curricular, took the Caxys to Ecuador, Greece, Hawaii, Ireland, Panama, Puerto Rico, South Korea, and Olympic National Park in Washington. This summer, students participated in three experiential education programs through the Grace Elizabeth Groner Foundation to Montpelier Archaeology Field School in Virginia and the Monteverde Institute in Costa Rica in June and an August trip to Dumfries House in Scotland.

These journeys provided hands-on experiences in history, culture, service, and environmental sustainability.

ECUADOR

GREECE

HAWAII

IRELAND PANAMA SOUTH KOREA

PUERTO RICO 14

Lake Forest Academy | www.lfanet.org

AROUND CAMPUS

Through a partnership with the Grace Elizabeth Groner Foundation, LFA students are making the world their classroom on three experiential education programs this summer. The first two of these programs took place in June as students participated in the Montpelier Archaeology Field School in Virginia and a sustainability-focused program at the Monteverde Institute in Costa Rica. The third trip, which will take place in early August, will focus on community development and sustainability at Dumfries House in Scotland.

Virginia The first of the three programs brought eight Caxys to Virginia for a nine-day immersive field school experience exploring archaeology, historic preservation, public history, and museum studies through partnerships with some of the nation’s leading historic sites.

Students began their exploration with a visit to Monticello, where they received both a detailed house tour and a special look at the archaeology sites before traveling to James Madison’s Montpelier. At Montpelier, they worked alongside archaeologists and preservation professionals, excavating artifacts such as a clay marble, an oyster shell, a blacksmithing slag, nails, fragments of brick, and shards of ceramic and glass. They also assisted with an ongoing historic preservation project focused on documenting and investigating the site’s well house.

The experience concluded in Colonial Williamsburg, where students explored as visitors before going behind the scenes to meet archaeologists, curators, and conservators working to preserve and interpret the past for future generations.

Costa Rica From the cloud forests of Monteverde to the mangroves of the Pacific coast, the second program gave students the opportunity to explore what sustainability looks like in action in Costa Rica.

Through field research, citizen science, community partnerships, and hands-on service, Caxys discovered that solving global challenges begins with local action.

Participating in a program at the Monteverde Institute, they studied the region’s natural history while examining sustainable practices in conservation, agriculture, and community development. Students monitored stream health, planted trees in the Bellbird Biological Corridor, worked alongside conservationists and farmers, learned about sustainable coffee production, explored circular economies, engaged with rural innovation initiatives, and contributed to a community art project. They also hiked through the Santa Elena Cloud Forest and Children’s Eternal Rainforest, experiencing the beauty and complexity of the natural world, along with how STEM drives meaningful environmental and social change.

The Review | Summer 2026

15

ARTS REVIEW

Lake Forest Academy’s Fine and Performing Arts department proudly presented “Grease” by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey as the winter musical. This highenergy celebration of 1950s teen spirit, rock ’n’ roll, and unforgettable friendships transported audiences back to the halls of Rydell High, where slicked-back hair, poodle skirts, and catchy tunes set the stage for a story about young love, identity, and belonging that entertained spectators over four shows in late February.

Scholastic Art & Writing Awards Four LFA students received recognition in Scholastic Art & Writing Awards presented by the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers. These awards are the country’s longestrunning and most prestigious scholarship and recognition program for creative students. In 2025 alone, nearly 110,000 teens across the United States and Canada entered more than 310,000 original works in 28 different categories of art and writing.

All entries are first considered on a regional basis for Gold Key, Silver Key, and Honorable Mention Awards.

Entries that win a Gold Key are automatically considered for national awards, including Gold Medal, Silver Medal, and scholarship awards.

LFA’s honorees included: Zinnia Chen ’28 (Silver Key - Critical Essay), Evie Ro ’28 (Gold Key and American Visions Award nominee - Glass (pictured); Silver Key Digital Painting; Honorable Mention - Digital Painting; Honorable Mention - Glass), Allegra Johnson ’29 (Gold Key Drawing; Honorable Mention - Drawing; Honorable Mention - Painting), Michelle Oum ’29 (Gold Key - Photography; Silver Key - Photography; Honorable Mention - Photography) 16

Lake Forest Academy | www.lfanet.org

Choir Visits Broadway Members of the LFA choir program visited New York City in early March. The jampacked weekend featured vocal masterclasses and performances, stops for Broadway shows and the Metropolitan Opera, and reconnecting with LFA alumni.

Clarinetist Earns State and National Recognition For the fourth time in as many years, Davin Lee ’26 was selected to perform in the Illinois Music Education Association (ILMEA) All-State Honors Orchestra.

In addition to the state honor, Lee also recently garnered national recognition in the YoungArts competition.

Lee was selected as one of five clarinetists among the 100 honorees for the YoungArts Award in the Classical Music discipline.

The YoungArts Award recognizes work that demonstrates exceptional technique; a strong sense of artistry; and a depth of thinking/performance that exceeds the level of peers at this career stage.

Every year thousands of performing, visual and literary artists ages 15-18 apply to YoungArts through the national competition.

This year, 2,000 students were selected to participate in the ILMEA’s 2026 All-State Student Programs in Peoria, Ill.. Lee’s placement in the All-State Honors Orchestra, the highest performance level of the program, recognized him as one of the top student-musicians in the state.

Caxy, Start Your Engine!

LFA student chases dreams of pole position

By Greg Greenwell P’25, ’29 // Director of Marketing and Communications Suzuka, Monaco, Indianapolis, Silverstone, Madrid, Long Beach, Las Vegas, Abu Dhabi... and Lake Forest.

When you think of the glamorous, globe-trotting lifestyle of an IndyCar or F1 driver, you may not consider Lake Forest on the list of great racing locales around the globe. However, if it’s up to one LFA student, Lake Forest Academy’s name will be seen on those iconic tracks and more as he chases his high-speed dream.

As Grant Mitchell ’28 works his way through academics and activities at LFA, he also spends time on weekends testing and competing in the USF Juniors Series this spring and summer. On a typical race or testing weekend, Mitchell travels on Thursday for a weekend of laps at tracks in Florida, Ohio, or Wisconsin among stops over eight race weekends and various testing periods throughout the year.

Most drivers you see on tracks at speeds of 200-plus miles per hour started their careers on karting tracks as young as four years old. Mitchell took a different route on ATVs and dirt bikes before moving into online sim racing The Academy provides support for its students that which led to an interest in motorsports and eventually a travel with their pursuits to allow them to become the best fun showdown on a karting track with his father, Lance. they can be in their chosen activity. When Mitchell started “I used to have a dirt bike,” said Mitchell. “I wanted to to become more involved with racing, his first stops were try out a sport that was competitive outside of school.” racing school and the Skip Barber Racing Series.

At Lake Forest Academy, students are able to explore “The Dean of Students office has been really helpful athletic opportunities outside of a traditional high school approving my absences and my schedule,” said Mitchell. athletics program. This includes competitive dance, “All of my teachers are very accommodating when it martial arts, equestrian, sailing, and in Mitchell’s case – comes to absences. They work well with me before and auto racing at the age of 15. after I get back to make sure I’m caught up.”

At speeds around 150 miles per hour, Mitchell is currently a driver for the Zanella Racing Team as part of the USF Juniors Series. USF Juniors is the first step in the USF Pro Championships driver development program.

The 2026 schedule features 16 races between February and September. Through 13 races, Mitchell sits 15th with 94 points in the driver standings with his best weekend so far at Lime Rock Park in Lakeville, Conn. in July. He posted a season-best seventh-place finish in round 12 before finishing eighth in the 13th race of the season. The final three rounds take place at Mitchell’s favorite track – Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wis. – from September 24-26.

The Review | Summer 2026

17

ATHLETICS REVIEW

College Athletic Commitments Aditya Chandhok ’26 Illinois Institute of Technology men’s basketball Elijah Eschmeyer ’26 Northwestern University men’s basketball Lindsay Farbman ’26 Wesleyan University women’s basketball Hamza Jafri ’26 Middlebury College men’s squash Defne Kocak ’26 University of Toledo women’s swimming and diving Kristian Kopacz ’26 Lake Forest College men’s soccer Roman McLaurine ’26 Lake Forest College men’s track and field Diego Pedroza ’26 Lewis University men’s soccer Mateo Stremi ’26 University of Rochester men’s soccer Levi Tallós ’26 Wayne State College men’s basketball

Junior Hockey Commitments Gavin Bailey ’26 Carleton Place Canadians (CCHL) Andreas Churchill ’26 Houston Bulls (NAHL) Mathieu Frechette ’26 Renfrew Wolves (CCHL) Keegan Gregory ’26 Northeast Generals (NAHL) Zach Houde ’26 Renfrew Wolves (CCHL) Romain Lellouche ’26 Salmon Arm Silverbacks (BCHL)

18

Lake Forest Academy | www.lfanet.org

The winter and spring seasons for Lake Forest Academy continued the success and competitiveness that was established by the fall sports. In addition to the victories and honors, a number of students announced their college athletics and junior hockey commitments following the conclusion of their seasons.

Below are some notables and highlights from the winter and spring seasons at LFA. At the conclusion of the spring sports season, the Independent School League (ISL) has announced its postseason honors for BASEBALL, which include two Caxys earning conference recognition.

Owen Adrianopoli ’27 and Ethan Nakanishi ’27 were both named All-ISL as each was selected to the second team. In addition to the individual awards, LFA was selected as the recipient of the Team Sportsmanship Award.

LFA’s BOYS BASKETBALL team won the Culver Winter Classic in January.

The Caxys opened the tournament with a decisive win over South Bend Career Academy (Ind.) before defeating the host Culver Academy (Ind). Overall, LFA posted 14 wins during the season.

The GIRLS BASKETBALL team finished the season with 12 wins and Blanka Devai ’27 was named to the Rust-Oleum Classic All-Tournament hosted by Libertyville High School.

For the first time in LFA history, the CO-ED CHEER/DANCE team performed competitively during the winter sports season. The Caxys competed in the Illinois Drill Team Association’s (IDTA) Regional Contest, marking the team’s first foray into competitive dance. The team performed within IDTA’s A Division in the hiphop category and earned a first place finish. Feedback from the judges noted the Caxys delivered an impressive performance of a clean, sharp routine and praised the team’s level of talent. Their final score of 79.1 landed the team just shy of the 80 points needed to qualify for IDTA’s State Finals.

ATHLETICS REVIEW The LFA BOYS PREP ICE HOCKEY team reached the 40-win plateau during the season and reached the semifinals in the Midwest Prep Hockey League (MPHL) playoffs. Following the MPHL playoffs, Gavin Bailey ’26, Charles Demeo ’26, Mathieu Frechette ’26, and Romain Lellouche ’26 were named Playoff All-Stars.

LFA’s GIRLS ICE HOCKEY team placed 11 students on the Metro Girls Hockey League (MGHL) Academic Honor Roll. The honorees include Clara Choi ’29, Lucy Cooper ’28, Clara Danz ’29, Kayleigh Dunford ’28, Emmie Greer ’26, Mia Pellegrini ’29, Christina Quiroz ’26, Madeleine Stastny ’26, Jessica Xu ’27, and Maiko Yamaoka ’28, as well as team manager Cecilia Hao ’26. Head coach Erin Stoney was named the recipient of the Jim Clare Coach of the Year Award as the high school girls coach of the year

by The Amateur Hockey Association of Illinois (AHAI).

Following the 2026 season, members of the GIRLS SOCCER program were honored with postseason recognition from both the Independent School League (ISL) and the Illinois High School Soccer Coaches Association (IHSSCA). Three Caxys were named to the All-ISL teams, with Kate Larson ’28 and Dalia Kopacz ’29 on the second team and Riley White ’28 picking up honorable mention recognition. Larson was recognized by the IHSSCA with All-Sectional honors while Kopacz earned the Honorable Mention All-Sectional honors. Other IHSSCA award winners include Christina Quiroz ’26 with an All-Sectional Sportsmanship selection and Madeleine Stastny ‘26 on the All-Sectional All-Academic list.

The SOFTBALL team’s collection of ISL honors included Genesis Hernandez ’28 on the first team and Zoe Watkins ’28 on the second team while Helena Secrest ’26 picked up honorable mention honors. In addition to the individual awards, LFA earned the Team Sportsmanship Award and coaches Joan Karstrom ’18 and Beth Roti P’27 were named ISL Coaching Staff of the Year.

The BOYS SWIMMING team was highlighted by a firstplace finish for Zach Youn ’26 at the ISL Championship meet in the 50-yard freestyle. His winning time set a new

standard for LFA boys swimming with a record-setting mark of 22.49. He broke his own record of 22.55 that was set earlier in the season in a dual meet against Notre Dame College Prep.

The Lake Forest Academy BOYS TENNIS team concluded the season with a runner-up finish at the ISL Championships. Hunter Jones ’28 led the Caxys with an individual title at the No. 1 singles slot and was joined on the all-conference list by five teammates. As the No. 2 seed, Jones dominated the semifinal matchup with a straight sets victory over his opponent from University High to advance to the finals against the top-seeded player from Latin. The championship match went three sets as Jones dropped the first set by a score of 6-2 before taking the second set at 6-4. In a competitive and back-and-forth deciding frame, Jones came out on top with a 6-3 decision. Jones earned All-ISL honors with his championship and was joined on the conference list by Grant Tse ’29 at No. 2 singles along with No. 1 doubles team of Hudson Kwasteniet ’28 and Charles Demeo ’26, and the No. 3 doubles squad of Naman Singh ’28 and Nishant Narayanan ’27. In addition to winning the No. 1 singles title, Jones was named the ISL Player of the Year and the coaching staff of Sam Wold and Sally Stephenson added ISL Coaching Staff of the Year recognition.

Following the ISL Championship meet, members of the Lake Forest Academy BOYS and GIRLS TRACK & FIELD teams were recognized with all-conference selections.

Michael An ’26 was named a first team honoree after winning the triple jump while Roman McLaurine ’26 and Abbey Welsh ’28 earned honorable mention selections.

In addition to the All-ISL honors, LFA’s coaching staff of head coach Filipp Velgach along with assistant coaches Carolyn Gorowski, Kassandra Hayes P’18, ’28, Kevin Ingram, Jessica Kapadia, Jen Madeley P’11, ’14, Stephanie Ramirez, and Emily Wagner were named the league’s Coaching Staff of the Year. Overall, the boys’ team finished second in the ISL Championships while the girls’ team placed third.

The BOYS and GIRLS SQUASH teams defended the Chicagoland Team Squash Championship title and won the team event for the third straight year. Individually, Hamza Jafri ’26 powered through Division 1 to claim the title, with Aarav Talati ’29 finishing second and Astin Choi ’28 third to complete a podium sweep. Franklin Godinho ’29 and Liam Lee ’27 placed second and third in Division 2, while Dora Huang ’27 dominated the girls round robin to take first.

The Review | Summer 2026

19

ALUMNI EVENTS Young Alumni Luncheon Alumni, faculty, and staff gathered on January 7 for LFA’s annual Young Alumni Luncheon on campus.

The afternoon was filled with good food and great conversation as alumni shared updates on their careers and next steps since graduating from LFA. Between catching up with one another and enjoying some LFA prizes, it was a joy to welcome young alumni back to campus and hear about the many exciting paths they are pursuing.

Caxys Gather Around the Country Head of School Tom Johnson P’30 and members of the Office of Advancement traveled around the country holding alumni events from coast to coast.

These gatherings brought together alumni from across class years and industries, creating a lively space to reconnect with old friends, meet new faces, and strengthen ties to the LFA community.

STUDIO CITY, CALIF.

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FLA.

VERO BEACH, FLA.

NORTH PALM BEACH, FLA.

NEW YORK, N.Y.

20

Lake Forest Academy | www.lfanet.org

Josh Rothstein Young Alumni-Student Networking Night Now in its 12th year, this annual event provides LFA students with invaluable experience, connecting them with young alumni professionals who share advice about college and their careers, all while strengthening important networking skills and connections. A huge thank you to this year’s alumni representatives: Scott Fuller ’12, Currie Smith Purmal ’15, Andrew Ryder ’17, Mason Schilling ’18, Alina Moreno ’18, Colin Weil ’19, Sydney Olinger ’19, Sarah Eisendrath ’20, and Kalina Honczarenko ’20.

We are so grateful to the Rothstein family for establishing the Joshua A. Rothstein ’05 Memorial Fund to make this meaningful tradition possible.

Alumni Advisory Board and Black Alumni Advisory Council The Alumni Advisory Board (AAB) and Black Alumni Advisory Council (BAAC) gathered in April for a productive meeting focused on strengthening alumni engagement and advancing key priorities for the year.

Members shared updates on current initiatives, previewed upcoming programming, and explored new ways to deepen alumni involvement through events, volunteer opportunities, and regional connections.

We are grateful for the thoughtful ideas and continued commitment of both AAB and BAAC members. Their partnership plays an important role in shaping and strengthening the alumni experience.

Life Trustee Luncheon The Life Trustee Luncheon in early June with Head of School Tom Johnson P’30 brought together former (and current) Trustees whose leadership, vision, service, and generosity helped shape and build Lake Forest Academy into one of the nation’s leading independent schools.

The gathering provided an opportunity to reconnect, hear updates on the Academy’s progress and discuss future priorities, tour the campus, and engage in conversation Front row: Cate Waddell P’01, ’03; Second row with Dean of Advancement Liz (left to right): Trustee Allan Kaplan ’72, P’03, Zafirovski P’04, ’05, ’09, Trustee Kathy Sullivan, Dean of Robin Pollock ’70, Gerry Miller P’98, ’01, Lauren Admission Carolyn Gorter P’06, ’09, Zaid Abdul-Aleem ’90; Back row (left to right): John Mengel P’06, ’09, Head Gorowski, and of School Tom Johnson P’30, Trustee John Chief Financial ’65, Trustee Ned Jessen P’01, ’05, Officer Mike Reidy Marlatt GP’28, Chris Freeburg ’90, Tom Duckworth P’17, ’26.

P’08, ’10, ’12, ’14, Tim Smith ’68, P’12

ALUMNUS FEATURE

103 and Counting LFA’s Eldest Alumnus Eyes 105

By Ruth Keyso // Director of Individual Philanthropy If you ask Bob Laidlaw ’40 about his LFA experience in the 1930s, he’ll tell you he doesn’t remember a lot of details.

Then, he’ll turn around and recall his past with remarkable precision.

Bob, now 103 years old, arrived at the Academy’s original campus in East Lake Forest for the start of his sophomore year of high school in the fall of 1937. The campus was, in his words, “a bunch of buildings,” and the school year didn’t begin until late September.

Those buildings became home before long. A boarder in Remsen and later East House, Bob says he enjoyed his Academy experience. It was a place of Saturday morning classes and Sunday church services, of sports on Saturday afternoons and occasional train rides to Chicago for a meal at Blackhawk Restaurant, where bandleader Bob Crosby performed. It was an environment rich in social activities, including dances in the gym with girls from Ferry Hall.

Classes kept him busy. While Latin wasn’t his favorite discipline, math was a different story.

Pictured above: Bob Laidlaw ’40 at his home with Head of School Tom Johnson P’30 in March 2026.

Bob Laidlaw is a proud 1940 graduate of Lake Forest Academy.

He lives independently in a retirement community in Southern Pines, N.C. He was the commencement speaker at Lake Forest Academy’s graduation ceremony in 1976 and has supported the school for more than 60 years.

When asked about advice for LFA students today, Bob says he’d offer the same advice he shared in 1976 (excerpted below): “The message is simple, but in practice, can guarantee you a more satisfying life. These things will apply to relations with your family, your friends, your future employment, and everyone with whom you come in contact.

“For lack of a better name, I call these the HAVE’s and the BE’s of living.

HAVE enthusiasm BE dependable HAVE respect BE considerate HAVE courage BE involved HAVE confidence BE honest “I would like to emphasize that as you practice these few HAVE’s and BE’s, not only will you discover a more satisfying life for yourself, but it will reflect favorably on your parents and on this fine school.”

Bob enrolled in Edward Milne’s advanced math class his senior year, along with two or three other students, he recalls.

Within two weeks, the others had dropped out; he was the only one left.

“I was good at math. That’s where I shined a little bit,” he admits.

Outside the classroom, Bob was a three-sport athlete – not very competent, he says – competing in football, hockey, and track. A sprinter, he also threw the javelin, sometimes alongside competitors who could launch it more than 200 feet.

Graduation took Bob east to Dartmouth College for two years.

During the Second World War, he joined the United States Naval Reserve, where he learned to fly. He served in the Navy Air Corps from June 1942 until December 1945. He completed his college degree at the University of North Carolina and stayed on an additional three years to earn his law degree. After decades working for his family’s textbook publishing company, Laidlaw Brothers, Inc., Bob and his brother sold the business and invested the proceeds wisely.

Philanthropy remains important in his life. A supporter of his colleges and of the Academy Fund at LFA, Bob downplays his decades of generosity.

“I’m not a person that’s set up to do major donations,” he admits. “As long as I’m alive, you will be given some small amount every year.”

Like many centenarians, Bob’s been asked countless times about the secret to his longevity. His answer is simple. For years, he spent summers in northern Michigan walking four miles every morning to retrieve his newspaper—two miles out, two miles back, over steep hills. That, and his diet has been pretty good, he says. And for a number of years he didn’t drink at all.

Bob celebrated his 103rd birthday in March 2026 at numerous gatherings with his children and extended family in North Carolina. Now he’s setting his sights on his next milestone: 105.

The Review | Summer 2026

21

REUNION 2026

Reunion 2026

Reunion weekend celebrations move to June for new LFA tradition This June, Lake Forest Academy welcomed alumni, families, and friends back to campus for Reunion 2026, marking the beginning of a new summer tradition for the LFA and Ferry Hall community.

Designed as a full-day celebration of connection, Reunion brought alumni from across generations back to the place where so many memories began. From reconnecting with classmates and faculty to exploring campus updates and celebrating milestone years, the weekend highlighted the enduring relationships that make the LFA community so special.

The day featured a variety of opportunities for alumni to engage, including campus tours, Back

22

Lake Forest Academy | www.lfanet.org

to Class sessions led by faculty, alumni athletic events, creative workshops, and milestone celebrations honoring reunion classes. Guests also had the opportunity to see the continued transformation of campus, including new and renovated spaces that support today’s students.

A highlight of the evening was the Cheers to the Years cocktail hour and Milestone Celebration Dinner, where alumni celebrated shared memories, lifelong friendships, and the many ways the LFA experience continues to shape the lives of its graduates.

Thank you to all of the alumni, volunteers, faculty, staff, and families who helped make Reunion 2026 a meaningful celebration of LFA and Ferry Hall pride. Your participation and enthusiasm continue to strengthen the bonds that connect our community across generations.

We look forward to welcoming alumni back to campus for Alumni Weekend 2027, taking place June 4-5, 2027.

Interested in getting involved?

Alumni volunteers play an important role in helping classmates reconnect and creating personalized experiences. To learn more about volunteering for Alumni Weekend 2027, please contact Director of Alumni Engagement Dianys Padró Pagán.

REUNION 2026

CAMPUS TOURS were led by LFA’s student ambassadors, who guided groups of alumni and families around campus to visit familiar locations along with new buildings.

The BACK TO CLASS SERIES SESSIONS provided visitors the opportunity to reunite with faculty and staff in classroom settings.

A variety of classes were offered in three sessions and included the pictured classes of: “The Armour House: A Brief History of the Armours and Mellody Farm” (pictured above), “The Bill of Rights: America’s First Group Chat” (pictured below), and “The Power of Play: Using Improvisational Skills to Unlock Your Creative Impulses” (bottom photo).

The REUNION LUNCH in Reid Hall and the Formal Gardens allowed alums and faculty and staff to gather and enjoy lunch while catching up and reminiscing about Lake Forest Academy.

The sunny afternoon provided a perfect break between the class sessions.

The Review | Summer 2026

23

REUNION 2026

An afternoon full of action saw the ALUMNI SOCCER MATCH take place at Alumni Stadium before moving inside the LFA Athletic Center for the ALUMNI BASKETBALL GAME. Competition was fierce inside and outside as former Caxys donned the LFA jerseys once again in fun-filled competitions.

Reunion 2026 concluded in festive fashion with the CHEERS TO THE YEARS COCKTAIL RECEPTION and MILESTONE CELEBRATION DINNER in Reid Hall. Caxys from near and far enjoyed hearing and telling stories about their times at LFA followed by dinner and class portraits.

A true hands-on experience, the CERAMICS WORKSHOP in the arts studio on the second floor of The Cressey Center for the Arts allowed participants to create their own ceramics.

SAVE THE DATE Alumni Weekend 2027 June 4-5, 2027 24

Lake Forest Academy | www.lfanet.org

REUNION 2026

Class of 1966: Al Hall, Maude Glore

Class of 1971: Kevin Wagner

Class of 1986: (front row left to right) Patrick Abdula, Mike Abdula, James Grace, Jay Alvarez, Matt Alghini; (back row left to right) Jorgette Dracos Smith, Carla Gamez, John Lueder

Class of 1996: (left to right) Gordon Trip Tapley, Jennifer Billings Snow, Charlie Cooper P’28, ’30

Class of 2001: (front row left to right) Shamsideen Musa, Drew DeSantis, Alfred Schulz, Johnnie Johnson P’26, ’27; (back row left to right) Rob Wiebking, Ryan Fields

Class of 2002 and 2003: (left to right) Diamond Weathersby ’02, Alicia Altheimer ’03

Class of 2006: (left to right) Ravi Dhiman, Lauren Werckenthien, Brooke Wesley Chapman, Rick Lindstrom

Class of 2015 and 2016: (left to right) Angela “Ella” Lin ’15, Ella Ekstrom Hunter ’16

The Review | Summer 2026

25

SUMMER CELEBRATION TOUR

SEOUL

Summer Celebration Tour Caxy Contingent Visits Japan, China, and South Korea

SHENZHEN SHANGHAI

26

Lake Forest Academy | www.lfanet.org

After the conclusion of this year’s graduation ceremonies, Lake Forest Academy was excited to partake in another year of the Summer Celebration Tour. The group of LFA representatives who traveled to Asia was led by Head of School Tom Johnson P’30 with his wife, Learning Resources Specialist Leigh Morrison P’30, and their daughter, Harper ’30. They were joined by Dean of College Counseling Andrew Poska P’28, Director of International Admission Adam Gerber P’21, ’24, and Director of Chinese Parent Development Joy Zhou.

SUMMER CELEBRATION TOUR

TOKYO

This year’s Summer Celebration Tour featured stops in six different destinations: Tokyo, Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Hong Kong, and Seoul. While in each city, the group met with past, current, and incoming students and families, building and strengthening personal connections that allow the Academy to continue to expand its global reach. The tour also provided an avenue for families to learn more about day-to-day life at LFA: at each celebration dinner, LFA students and alumni led presentations to speak about their school experiences and why they take pride in attending LFA. Over 150 people attended the celebration dinners, in addition to one-on-one meetings and group outings to learn about and experience the cultural heritage of our students who call those cities home.

HONG KONG BADALING

GREAT WALL OF CHINA

BEIJING The Review | Summer 2026

27

FACULTY NOTES

Left to right: Head of School Tom Johnson P’30, the Dr. John and Mrs. Loring Strudwick Endowed Chair Sam Wold, the Sidney E. Ainsworth Chair in Mathematics Angela Orr P’29, the Harold H. Corbin Jr. Chair in Environmental Studies Ted Anderson, and Dean of Faculty Paul Makovec.

Three LFA Faculty Named to Endowed Chair Positions

Head of School Tom Johnson P’30 and Dean of Faculty Paul Makovec are pleased to announce the appointment of three faculty members to endowed chairs at Lake Forest Academy.

The honorees were recognized on June 3 during LFA’s Employee Recognition Luncheon.

Endowed chairs at Lake Forest Academy provide dedicated resources for professional academic pursuits outside of the classroom. Faculty members use these discretionary funds to attend conferences and engage in travel that deeply enriches their expertise, bringing these experiences back to their classrooms for the benefit of their students.

The Sidney E. Ainsworth Chair in Mathematics was established in 1989 under the leadership of LFA President Tom Hodgkins ’53, P’82, ’85, GP’19 and Principal Bondy Hodgkins P’82, ’85, GP’19 through the generous support of many LFA alumni who had been taught and inspired by Ainsworth.

The endowed chair position was dedicated in honor of Ainsworth’s substantial contributions to the Academy from 1954 to 1972 and to recognize and support the Chair of the Mathematics Department.

Angela Orr P’29 joined the Lake Forest Academy Mathematics Department in 2025, teaching AP Calculus BC. She earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Northwestern University with a certification in 6th-12th grade education and continued her education at National Louis University by earning a Master of Education, focusing on curriculum and instruction. In addition to her role as Mathematics Department Chair, Angela also serves as one of the faculty advisors for LFA’s math team and coaches girls badminton.

Established in 1969 by a group of LFA alumni, the Harold H. Corbin Jr. Chair in Environmental Studies honors Corbin’s leadership as the Academy’s Head of School from 195169. The holder of this chair is challenged to advance his or her understanding of science with the charge to inject that knowledge into the LFA curriculum.

28

Lake Forest Academy | www.lfanet.org

Ted Anderson earned his Bachelor of Science from the United States Naval Academy and served in the Navy as a nuclear engineer and surface warfare officer, then went on to get master’s degrees from the University of Chicago and National Louis University. Before joining LFA’s Science Department in 2025, he taught at a private school in Chicago for five years. Ted teaches both Physics 1 and AP Physics, contributes to the fall play and winter musical, and coaches boys basketball.

Funded by generous alumni and parents, the Dr. John and Mrs. Loring Strudwick Endowed Chair honors the careers of an extraordinary couple – lifelong educators who gave their all to LFA over their heralded 18 years of service on the Academy’s campus. John’s leadership as Head of School, in tandem with Loring’s partnership as a math faculty member and Dean of Admission, created the caring, nurturing, and rigorous academic environment for which LFA is now world-renowned.

Sam Wold teaches AP World History and several Human Rights electives and holds a bachelor’s degree in history from Carleton College and a Master of Education from Hamline University. Since joining LFA in 2012, Sam has coached soccer and tennis, served as a representative on the Faculty Advisory Council, and has taught in the Global Concentration Program. He also serves as a faculty advisory for the Amnesty International club and History Bowl, is a dorm parent in Marshall Field House, and has led student trips to destinations around the world.

The three new chairs join four other faculty members who currently hold endowed chairs: • Jon Freeman P’26, P’29: Dr. Ray Bird Jr. Master Chair in English • Olivia Poska P’28: A. John Huss Jr. ’58 and Ruth S. Huss Chair in Humanities • Filipp Velgach: Ned and Lynn Jessen Chair in the Humanities • Sarah Michaelson: Edmund J. Rendtorff Chair in Science

CLASS NOTES

1947

1966

Willie Sanderson ’47 writes that she is currently living in assisted living in Moraga, Calif., near her eldest son and family. While she was unable to attend her granddaughter’s wedding in Santa Barbara, she was able to enjoy the celebration virtually through photos and videos. She shares that she remains in touch with fellow alumna Mary (Lefty) Dailey ’46, and continues to stay active in her community. Since moving into assisted living three years ago, she has helped advocate for additional outings and activities for residents, including popular seated volleyball games that have become a favorite among participants. She notes that she is still fairly active and often wears a shirt that reads, “Never Underestimate an old lady who loved to read,” which regularly brings smiles and conversation.

Bill Barr ’66 has retired from practicing law. He and his wife now split their time between Denver and New Jersey, enjoying life with their four grandchildren.

1961 Maddie (Woods) Gieselman ’61 and a group from the Class of 1961 gathered in October 2025 at Buckeye Lake in Ohio. A wonderful time featured reminiscing, eating ice cream, strolling around the lake, and pajama party time.

She was joined by MaryAnne Ameter ’61, Susie (Lehman) Munoz ’61, Jeannie (Lehman) Paulini ’61, Rosemary (Mitchell) Lee ’61, and Pixie (Kreider) Rudolph ’61.

Bill (Buff) Courter ’66 has published Searching for Babbo, the first book of a trilogy, available at Barnes & Noble. His daughter is engaged, with a wedding planned in Maui and a reception in Chicago.

Jon Fremd ’66, after a million miles on the road, is finally moving toward retirement following years of dedicated physical therapy work.

Michael Hall ’66, despite some physical challenges, is teaching his grandchildren to skate.

Scott Lennox ’66, who lost his wife in 2021, has retired as an investment counselor and is relishing time with his grandchildren and extended family – anticipating that they may fill the Cubs’ outfield in 20 years.

Doug Read ’66 continues to maintain his recovery from cancer with an energetic lifestyle that includes skiing and skating.

Richard Lang ’66, following brain surgery in 2021, remains active in his nationally acclaimed artistic and literary work.

Jeff Konker ’66 and his wife divide their time between Denver and Chicago, also focusing on enjoying time with their grandchildren.

1967 Margaret Mags Messenger ’67, Jodi McDonald Wilson ’67, and Lea (Pea) Prober Gorman ’67 gathered in Siesta Key, Fla. for fun times!

1965 Chris James ’65 shares that he maintains an ongoing memoir on Substack titled The Anglo File (@chrisjames2).

As of May 21, 2026, he is up to Chapter 68 and publishes a new installment approximately weekly, currently covering events through 1987. Chapters 19 through 27 reflect on his time at Lake Forest Academy.

The Review | Summer 2026

29

CLASS NOTES

1970

1979 and 2001

Stephen Wade ’70 is releasing his latest book, Our Common Life: Folksong from the Front Porch to the Concert Hall. Wade is musician, author, and a Grammy-nominated recording artist best known for his long running stage performances of Banjo Dancing and On the Way Home. He is the author of the award-winning book The Beautiful Music All Around Us: Field Recordings and the American Experience.

Both of Wade’s books are available through the University of Illinois Press.

Julie Mills ’79 and Azeem Khan ’01 first crossed paths in 2024 at a Robyn Hitchcock and Emma Swift show in Los Angeles, where Azeem has lived for the past 20 years. Bonding over music, art, and a shared LFA connection, the two quickly became friends.

They reunited in Portland, Ore., home to Julie and her husband Bob, for another show by the same artists. Pictured right, they are catching up over a meal at MeKha Noodles during Azeem’s visit to Portland.

1971

2011

Doug Baske ’71 and Mary Baske (Friedman) ’71 recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Feb. 14, 2026. They continue to reside in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., and spend their summers on Big Cedar Lake in West Bend, Wis. The couple has three children and eight grandchildren. Mary remains active in her longtime community work as a board member and founding member of the Curious Kids’ Museum in St. Joseph, Mich., a role she has held for 36 years. Doug continues to enjoy fishing in the ocean or on the lake most mornings.

Jessica Kaminsky ’11, Shelby Benjamin ’11, and Mary (Joo) Porter ’11 stopped by LFA during winter break. Pictured from left to right in the LFA Athletic Center: LFA science teacher Ed Shaughnessy P’14, ’16, ’17, Kaminsky, Benjamin, Porter, and LFA history and social science teacher Chris Dozois ’84, P’17, ’21.

Michael Springer ’71 released his second book, Throwaway Boys, in the Unbridled Series in January 2026. Synopsis: On a quiet Sunday in 1955, three boys set out from their suburban homes to see a movie in downtown Chicago.

They don’t come home that night. Two days later their bodies are found in a local forest preserve. The brutal murders stun the city, shattering the myth of suburban innocence.

A massive manhunt for the killer turns Chicago upside down and in the process exposes an underworld of child exploitation and sexual abuse. The trail eventually leads to a stable owned by Cyrus Caine, the Godfather of the Horse Mafia (UNBRIDLED). But it will be forty years before the case is solved and the killer is brought to justice.

30

Lake Forest Academy | www.lfanet.org

2016 Ella Albright Ekstrom ’16 married Christopher David Hunter on June 21, 2025, at Fourth Presbyterian Church of Chicago. Members of the wedding party included Grant Woodward Ekstrom ’15, Sarah Seibert Hopper ’15, and Megan Stark Seibert ‘14.

To submit information for Class Notes and the monthly Alumni eNewsletter, please send career/family updates and photos to classnotes@lfanet.org or use the QR code below to access the online form for submitting Class Notes.

IN MEMORIAM

The Academy has learned about the passing of the following alumni/ae. May they rest in peace.

This listing includes those alumni/ae whose notices of death were received between Dec. 15, 2025 and June 15, 2026.

1943 Mary Ann (Kennedy) Strong 1976 March 19, 2026

1944

Rosemary (Evans) Williams May 13, 2004

1948

A. Erik Gundersen March 8, 2026

1949

Ann (Trowbridge) Lawrence Richter August 27, 2025

1954

Nancy (Wells) Ypma April 26, 2026

1957

Andrew “Andy” Chapin Heumann December 5, 2025

1978

David Allabastro February 12, 2024

1986

Barbara “Buffy” (LaBahn) Walgreen October 6, 2025

1992

Kevin William Schwartz December 19, 2025

Former Faculty

Jeanne Costello Forbes March 24, 2026

Owen David Cassidy December 18, 2025

Marina Krejci September 15, 2025

1958

Laura Daniels November 8, 2012

Allan “Al” Marshall Cameron January 20, 2026

1960

William “Buck” Carroll Meyer May 19, 2020 Patrick “Pat” D. Smyth January 9, 2026

1961

Stanely “Jim” James Goodfriend March 28, 2026

1968

Linda Hess Levy December 15, 2025

1970

Edward “Wayne” Schroeder December 28, 2025

1971

John E. Monek November 23, 2025 Michael B. Clow February 5, 2026 The Review | Summer 2026

31

Why We Chose to Include LFA in Our Estate Plans The Richards & Tremain Society

The Richards & Tremain Society honors those who have included Lake Forest Academy in their estate plans.

Named for two transformative leaders – John Wayne Richards, Head of LFA from 1913-1941, and Eloise Ruthven Tremain, Principal of Ferry Hall from 1918-1945 – the Society celebrates those whose generosity will help sustain the Academy for generations to come.

For Liz Farwell ’83, including LFA in her estate plans was a way to give back to a school that shaped her life.

The friendships she formed, the lessons she learned, and the experiences she gained as a student helped shape the person she is today. Liz remains deeply connected to LFA – even celebrating her wedding reception on campus.

To help ensure that future generations of students will have access to the same opportunities and experiences that meant so much to her, Liz chose to include LFA in her estate plans.

For Neal and Mardah Weinfield P’17, ’21, gratitude inspired their commitment, as did their deep belief in the Academy’s ability to develop not only strong students, but thoughtful and engaged citizens. Recognizing that future needs may evolve, Neal and Mardah chose an unrestricted bequest to allow future leaders to direct resources where they are needed most.

“We feel a profound sense of gratitude to LFA for its role in our sons’ development. We made our bequest to help ensure that LFA remains a school of the highest caliber and continues to nurture future generations of students.”

“A planned gift fostering education and growth in young people is a chance to do lasting good in the world. After all, you can’t take it with you.”

Neal and Mardah Weinfield P’17, ’21

Liz Farwell ’83 and Michael Reyes at their wedding reception in Reid Hall in 2019.

32

Lake Forest Academy | www.lfanet.org

Many planned gifts are simple to arrange and can be made through a will, living trust, retirement account, or other estate planning vehicle. If you have already included LFA in your plans, let us know so we may recognize your generosity through the Richards & Tremain Society.

To learn more, visit lfa.giftplans.org or to tell us about your planned giving intentions, please contact the Office of Advancement at 847-615-3287.

LFA’s Giving Day Tuesday, Nov. 17, 2026 This 24-hour celebration of giving officially launches LFA’s fundraising year, bringing the community together to build momentum for the Academy Fund, which helps power the student experience all year long.

Give to the Academy Fund:

By the end of One Day, All Caxy, we aim to reach 25% of the Academy Fund’s annual goal – providing a strong start to the fundraising year.

The Academy Fund is an important component of LFA’s annual operating budget each year, with donations providing immediate support for academics, financial aid, athletics, the arts, faculty excellence, and student life.

Whether you give on Giving Day or later in the year, your support of the Academy Fund helps ensure LFA students continue to thrive.

The Review | Summer 2026

33

Lake Forest Academy

1500 W. Kennedy Road // Lake Forest, IL 60045-1047

NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID LAKE FOREST, IL PERMIT NO. 100

Review Save These Dates on Your 2026 Calendar

Join us to celebrate the Lake Forest Academy and Ferry Hall community and support the Academy’s students and faculty.

Watch your inboxes and mailboxes for more information about these events.

l FAMILY WEEKEND

Friday-Saturday, September 25-26

l ADMISSION FALL OPEN HOUSE Sunday, October 25

l LFA GIVING DAY

Tuesday, November 17